John & Irene Got Gold

Walton - Friday 23rd to Sunday 25th June 2006

We arrived on Thursday about midday to find Barry and Peter somewhat concerned about the builders on site, unsure of whether they would get all the vans sited on the area left to be used. Barry showed Robbie where he wanted me sited, we'd only come from nearby Stanford Hall. Derrick had had to go home after the Swift rally so Robbie had offered to move me to the next rally (in true Abbey spirit.)He then departed to fetch his own van and Jackie.

Gradually the vans drifted in, some coming Thursday, some Friday. Like a jigsaw all was pieced together, and everyone was soon settled in.

Friday night was party night. It was a special weekend; John and Irene were celebrating their Golden Wedding Anniversary. Julie and Iris had decorated the hall with banners & balloons and prepared a beautiful buffet, which was enjoyed by all. Background music was played by Harry and the whole evening was most enjoyable. Later in the evening John and Irene did the anniversary waltz, then many members, including Derrick got up to enjoy some dancing. Too soon the evening came to a close.

Saturday dawned bright and sunny, a day to relax or do ones own thing. 5pm. was table laying time, our wonderful hostesses were preparing a banquet, for us to enjoy. We ventured to the hall with dishes, plates etc. What a beautiful sight met our eyes. Each table was adorned with a white cloth with gold streamers, stars, and gold candles and holders. There were gold serviettes and gold bottles of champagne on each table. Behind the head table was the cake (complete with Pedro the cat). And along the stage were about 50 beautiful cards. It really did look amazing

When John and Irene arrived along with their son, daughter -in-law and friend they were greeted by a loud slow handclap. Robbie as Chairman presented Irene with some gorgeous flowers and a gift of painting equipment was presented to John. There was also a memory album of their time on different rallies.

We sat down to enjoy prawn cocktail, chicken chasseur with veg and new potatoes. There was a wide variety of sweets, cheese and biscuits and coffee to follow.

After dinner John thanked everyone for sharing his and Irene’s special day. A few reminisces. Sheila sang a couple of songs and Martin did some karaoke, didn't know you had it in you Martin! Sometime during the evening balloons appeared not your usual round or long type, but special flying bomber type. I've never seen so many grown men fighting over balloons. The balloons kept them quiet for hours. Alas, the evening came to a close once more. Reluctantly people left to go back to the vans.

Flag was held outside on Sunday, again taken by our Chairman. He thanked the marshals and all concerned for a super rally .and for making it so special.

I would like to say a very big thank you to Julie, Barry, Iris and Peter, for all their hard work and the lovely food. The food was excellent, the company brilliant truly a rally to remember.

But the last thank you must go to John and Irene for letting us share their special anniversary.