Friday evening’s Christmas night out at Arena 7  proved a great success for the third year running. Attendance was in the high twenties, including three non-members, Cecil, Rick and Linda. With so many members happily enjoying good food and animated conversation, it was difficult looking around the dinner table to picture who wasn’t actually there. Tanya, laid low with a broken collarbone after a nasty fall from Al the previous weekend, was a notable absentee. We hope you’re feeling better, Tanya — you’ll be back to remind us of your bowling prowess in 12 months’ time.

Leo regaled his neighbours with hair-raising tales from the hunting field. Sally’s hair was standing on end before long and she politely declined the kind offer of a starter hunt on Grace. Mick and Suzanne were enjoying a night out and updated everybody on Gemma’s progress. Gemma, we hope to have you back in the equestrian world as soon as possible and we think of you all the time.

After an excellent meal, Marina ushered her charges into action in the bowling alleys and the competition began. Despite showing the finest of American bowling style, Rick failed to repeat his winning performance of 2010 and was thwarted by last year’s last-place finisher, Enda, and an energetic Mick. Paddy put up a fine performance on the other side of the field and, together with a stellar performance from playing partner Sally, almost snatched the Pair’s title. Marina and Enda took the honours in suspicious circumstances, thanks in part to Marina’s fine effort in winning the Ladies division. Certain players were aided greatly by the alcohol consumed with the meal beforehand but Hazel, Vera and Finbar weren’t to be helped and took home the coveted “Worst” titles on a great evening’s competition.

The prize-giving ceremony took place in the hidden snug and everybody sat on well into the early hours of the morning before emerging to a night of chilly air and lethal black ice.

It was a most enjoyable way to kick off the festive season. Sincere thanks to Marina for organising the whole expedition and to all members present for providing such plain-ordinary, down-to-earth good company and craic.