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The build-up to this
event was fast, basically because we left it rather late to arrange
anything. But the one thing we hadn't anticipated was the weather...
and we got lots of it!
Unfortunately, the Southmids Sportsters area bore the brunt of a
sudden winter blizzard, coating everything in snow, changing the
roads to ice rinks and preventing several of our expected guests
from attending. However, some of us still managed to battle through
to enjoy a lovely evening.
Overstone Manor is, as the name suggests, a beautiful old manor
house modernised tastefully to cater for the needs of a wide
patronage. Not only do they offer the regular two-for-one menu, but
there's a carvery spread with three meat choices and fresh
vegetables, and as much as you can get on your plate. Of course, we
all went for the carvery!
After the first course, the presentation for the Member of the Year
award was made. The recipient was once again Nick Goodchild as he
managed to turn up to nearly all the meetings during the year,
helped out with several events and never stops with his active
promotion of the group. I think his boys will be pleased to see the
little red MGF that is the trophy back too!
Only a few went for a second course, after overdoing the first, and
we spent the rest of the evening just chatting and contemplating the
journey home. Would we all manage to get out of the car park, or
would our cars be performing pirouettes on the ice? Luckily, we did
all get home safely.
I
couldn't help but feel sorry for the venue. After all, we were the
only party to turn up after the others cancelled at the last minute.
There were a few other guests but it was very quiet. There was
supposed to be a quartet playing but they too were victims of the
extreme weather. But it made our group feel a little more special.
Despite everything, the food was great, the service a high standard
and the company... well, what can I say? A great evening out with
good friends.
We'll definitely visit Overstone Manor in the new year some time as
a pub meeting venue so hopefully those who weren't able to join us
this time will be able to share the experience.
Rich
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