Oulton Broad August Bank Holiday Weekend 2011

After a few days of rain and cool easterly wind, it warmed & brightened on the Sunday afternoon - just in time for the BBQ. Previously, I had gone around the packed pontoons with the quiz sheets for the weekend, aided by Robin’s granddaughter Shannon. She had suffered serious illness as a child and was helped by the “Make-a-wish” Childrens Foundation UK, so that’s where we donated the £120 raised by the quizzes. A magnificent effort and many thanks to all who contributed, especially the generous Yacht station staff! The BBQ cooking began whilst our better halves attended the yacht station raffle – oodles of prizes but as usual my luck was out and Jen came back empty-handed. Our President & Founder, Dave Warner, and his wife Gloria, were attending the weekend – staying at the Wherry. We haven’t seen them for many years but I do keep them up to date with issues of our newsletters etc. They came to the BBQ and party afterwards – and joined in just like old times. They really enjoyed themselves especially as the evening music on the quayside was lots of fun. As well as our very own Pip; Sylvia; & Bob, we were joined by 3 young ladies playing penny whistles, guitar and violin. A few of our ladies, including the lively Gloria, danced a Riverdance jig or two (well, sort of?) and followed up with jiving to Bob’s Rock ‘n Roll. Monday was a quieter day – I had to mark the quiz papers, but helped by Bob and a few glasses of wine the task was soon done. The noise of the Funfair prevented serious chatting – but didn’t interfere with the wine and beer quaffing throughout the afternoon. The evening Fireworks were spectacular this year, and some of us followed up with a look around the busy fairground – still not daring to go on any rides though! Sad to leave on the Tuesday morning – but good memories of a great weekend....
Ken