It was lovely to welcome several members who are unable  to play often and to have many of our newer male players come along, as well as our mah-jong  players.

This year we had an excellent lunch first, followed by the prize-giving and a bridge session to finish. Many found this meant a long day and would perhaps prefer a morning session of bridge followed by lunch next year.

So many people helped in decorating the club along with cooking, making salads and sweets, serving, washing and clearing up that they can’t possibly all be named, but thank you all.

Most of the prize winners were named last week, but here are the rest.

The Pat Masters Memorial award for the most outstanding beginner for the year went to Jim Driscoll while Anne Elliot won the Kate Slater Memorial Trophy  for the most improved novice.

Denise Hourigan-Thomas was presented a gift in appreciation of her work running a book-swapping system for players.

I also remember that Denise used to be the person  responsible for sending cards to people who were ill, or had had a bereavement or other tragedy in their family, which were much appreciated.

After the party, our lovely secretary sent a message to many people to thank them for the work they do in the club, but especially to Bob Dillon for the amazing work he does with his teaching that is so enjoyable that  people join and stay on in the club, and also to Jenny Hector who has the unenviable job of Public Trustee.

I also have to make a correction from last week. The Betty Braham Memorial Trophy, which is the night session championship held over three weeks, was won by Liz Scorer and Graham Daniel. Coleen Street and Bill Kierath won The David Morrow Championship Handicap Trophy after the  scores were adjusted to take account of everyone’s ratings.

There will still be a couple of bridge sessions each week, for two weeks over Christmas but no teaching or tutorials.