2012 St Patricks Day Report

The weather was superb and matched the occasion when our members attending our annual St Patricks Day celebrations, most in fancy enthusiastic Irish dress, which was once again tremendous. This year as usual it commenced with a game of bowls. The format was changed with drawn triples and rinks to accommodate all members wishing to play.  This was arranged by Jim Pike and John Fitzgerald organising   playing in sections of seven ends, when on completion of seven ends, players moved up to a different position. i.e. Lead to Skip, two to three etc. On completion of the games it was prize giving time where the finalist is listed below. We were required to finish in a relaxed time to ensure we were ready for the buffet and music by our very talented camp site entertainment manager, John Lodge.

This year was very different to past years as most of you are aware. Siobhan Herrity, our little leprechaun was magnificent organising everything without the help of Ray who was always by her side on this special Irish occasion. Our thoughts were with her and her bravery in doing this. She was however supported well by our fellow Irish members, John and Eileen Phoenix, Sue Mannall, Catherine Patrick and other members all helping make the day so successful.

As you are aware all monies raised on this day go to a charity. This year it will be our pleasure to present it to MAC’S Respite care and Hospice. Thank you to everyone who helped with achieving the record amount of 900 Euro. This was done by a club raffle where members donated prizes, a fabulous tombola organised by Margaret and Bob Bulmer- Kirby where contributions were collected throughout the campsite. Siobhan donated a bottle of Irish whisky for the annual ‘Spider’ when bowlers deliver a bowl in the opposite hand to try and get nearest to a jack centred in the middle of the green. This was then released from the winner, willing!! Patsy Tonkin. It is normally then played for again when members compete by tossing Euros along the deck towards the bottle, the nearest resting euro to the bottle is the winner. As there was no slot during the celebrations to do this, another Spider was done on Monday 19th when all members donated one Euro each towards the charity fund. This time the winner was Ken Sykes.

As mentioned above the winners of Bowls competition was John Fitzgerald, Sue Mannall and Maureen Street.  Best Irish Coleen, was Sue Mannall, followed by Pat Deacon, Ruth Compton. Best Dressed Man, was Jim Pike (although he was in a skirt, sorry!!! A kilt. followed by John Phoenix, Terry Rodgers. Best Fancy Dress on the Miraflores Terrace was Ladies,  Margaret Bulmer Kirby/ Pat Terry/ Catherine Patrick.  Men John Mannall/Steve (waiter) Mat Delaney.

Before we all assembled on the terrace, Jim Pike thanked everyone for making the day successful and the effort that members had made in achieving this. I am sure all those that attended the music and buffet will agree with me that this was one of the best occasions ever. The management, catering and restaurant staff was excellent. Our entertainment manager, John Lodge who is great addition to the Camping Los Gallardos staff, entertained us throughout the afternoon. His quest singer, Robin was also very good. A super day had by all. This report and photographs of the occasion will be found on our web site, www.bowlingalmeria.com

Vic Parsons

ALBC Press Officer & Vice Chairman