The Ramblers returned to Newcastle, and boy, did we do it in style! With a series of willing hosts and fun-loving members, we enjoyed five fun-packed nights of entertainment at our annual holiday event. And what about the daytime, you ask? Well, the lovely resort of Newcastle and all its attractions took care of that.
Gary and Yvonne hosted the opening night and were kindly assisted by Mark, who proved himself more than adept at parking vans. With that duty completed and some sunshine enjoyed, we headed into the hall for a wine reception to welcome members to the extravaganza ahead. With a glass of red, white or rosé in hand, members happily chatted the evening away, enjoying the usual craic and camaraderie while discussing their plans for the week ahead, all accompanied by some background music.
Next up was Wednesday, when the ever-reliable Willis and Murphy clans joined forces once again for The Great Cornhole Challenge. Last played in Newcastle in April, it was another almighty tussle and featured more than a few domestic squabbles as husbands lined up against wives! Reigning champion Enda was nursing a sore shoulder but still made it to the oche, only to be deposed. Keep up the physio, Enda, and you'll be chucking your way back to the top in no time. In the meantime, Mark is just keeping that crown warm for you. Once the plaudits had been deservedly awarded, Norman settled back into his usual rhythm and treated everyone to his regular selection of favourite hits.
Thursday and Friday soon came into view, bringing with them the Hoey, Pirie and Lynas Collective. That's such a good name for a band, don't you think? It's right up there with Crosby, Stills & Nash, only with a little less facial hair now that The Big Dawg and his beard have parted ways! It was a packed 48-hour schedule for this merry band as a fresh batch of eager Ramblers rolled in looking for some seaside fun. Jackie laid on a mind-boggling quiz on Thursday night, while Davie and Evey were busy doling out the cash at tabletop bingo on Friday evening. It was a great night for all, especially new members Gary and Marion, who walked away with a couple of rounds including the jackpot. Not a bad way to start life as Ramblers!
Saturday arrived and Paul and Lesley took the reins as we headed for the tropical reefs with a night at the Copacabana. It was time for the highlight of the week: Hawaiian Shirts and Skirts Night. If you weren't colour-blind before the evening began, you were guaranteed to be by bedtime! Our Hawaiian heroes and heroines had donned a kaleidoscope of garments in every conceivable colour and danced the night away to Lodzacraic, with only a brief interruption for the raffle. It was a truly brilliant end to a truly brilliant week.
Then came "Sadness Sunday" as dejected members trudged their way into the hall for the final farewell. Fortunately, Chairman Joe was on hand to lift everyone's spirits. Thanking all the members who attended throughout the week, along with all the hosts for their hard work and efforts, he summed up what everyone was thinking: this really was an event to remember. There are no other words to say except thank you all. Congratulations also go to Ian and Sheila, and David and Caroline, who were enjoying outings in their new vans, as well as Bridget Gilmore and Margaret O'Donnell, who were celebrating being 18 again! So that's all for now from South Down.
The Ramblers now venture northwards to Newtownards and our regular haunt at Regent House School. See you there!
The Rambling Writer