A goup enjoying the meal

Saturday 30th Jan was the Anniversary Bash for the GoldWings North West at the Feathers Hotel, Leyland, celebrating as the name suggests the 1st Anniversary of the formation of GoldWings North West.

It was a great event with about 80 people in attendance, all in the mood for a party and to make it worthwhile after all the efforts that Lesley Halley went to to arrange it.

Jan and I, with Dave and Elaine, Derek and Barbara, Allen ‘Chalky White and Wendy went along to represent GoldWings North Wales at the do.

More Wine please

On arrival at the hotel on the Sat afternoon, we made use of the leisure facilities which were well appreciated. There was a great pool, Jacuzzi, Steam Room and Sauna. There was also an exercise room which I believe was okay but I didn’t have the opportunity to try it out.

The venue of the evening dinner was excellent with a room dedicated to the GoldWings North West Party.  Many of us were wearing posh dress i.e. dinner jackets for the men and posh frocks for the ladies just to set the tone for the evening.

All up on the dance floor

I don’t think anyone can complain about any of the food which was superb. The all inclusive bar was good with free replenishment of your drinks throughout the evening. The only slight comment that could possibly be made was that the house rose wine was a bit industrial!

Throughout the evening we were entertained by the DJ who managed to get people up and dancing, and when they brought the props out, it is was quite a sight for sore eyes, watching the antics of a few air guitarists when they were handed inflatable guitars!

A most enjoyable evening was had by all.

Air guitarists in action

This is how Lesley Halley would have wanted it and to see Barry and his family there taking part only made the party more intense and enjoyable, though somewhat tinged with sadness.

The following morning I was able to see quite a few sensitive heads at breakfast. Again the hotel provided excellent food, which it would have been an insult not to make the most of.

This was followed by the 1st AGM of GNWest.

The high spot of the AGM was handing a cheque for £500 to the North West Air Ambulance Charity. This is an admirable figure for the club to collect during its first year. It also shows that the members of GNWest has a lot of support for the charity as they have decided to continue to support it for another year.

The new team sitting with the old 'uns behind

It was also the time for Bob Summers to hand over the Chairmanship to Ian Duxbery. I have to say that Bob has managed to steer the new club on a great path for it’s first 12 months and likewise it was a pleasure to see Ian taking over as Chairman, with Karen as treasurer and Steve taking on the role of secretary.

I wish them well for the next 12 months and know they will continue to steer the club in the right direction. ( I look forward to an invite to the 2nd Anniversary bash!)

Dave T