Happy Ramblers descended on Eaton Park for a jolly weekend at Ballymena RFC and The City of the Seven Towers with Gary & Yvonne. Safely parked on Friday the members unwound and relaxed before Gary challenged them to a quiz. The 4+2’s triumphed and won equal shares in a big box of Maltesers which in generous fashion made its way around the room for all to enjoy.
Saturday arrived and as The Willis & Murphy's had used up the quota of BBQ weather at the previous event Ballymena enjoyed some liquid sunshine. No matter however as hardy Ramblers pulled on the raincoats and set off early to the Steam Rally as well as the usual retail therapy in Ballymena & Broughshane. A special mention has to go to Mr & Mrs Young who hot-footed all the way from Castlewellan to see us in Ballymena then ventured into the famous Glens and Antrim coast and Carnlough for a nice lunch. They partied hard on Saturday night before departing for Donegal. I don’t know what they are on, but we want some!! Saturday night entertainment was hosted in the club bar where just like the night before the hard-working and welcoming staff looked after us as Gary belted out the tunes. There was a bit of this and a bit of that to please all musical tastes and seeing as this was Mid-Antrim a wee bit of Scottish thrown in too.
Sunday morning Coffee & Tea has become a real highlight for us and gives members the chance to relax and enjoy some light refreshment before heading home. Jack & Florence’s efforts are always appreciated and made even more enjoyable with buttered pancakes and Yvonne’s cupcakes which went down a real treat. With David, and of course Bridget, sadly unavailable for this event Vice-Chair Joe stepped in to keep members up to date with club matters the most pleasing being a bumper crop of new members joining us this weekend. Also confirmation of Armagh Rugby Club as venue for Georgian Day Event in Armagh on 29th November. A cracking spot located right in the centre of town and the festival. With a nice warm clubhouse as well what more could you ask for at beginning of December. In the meantime, Portstewart calls next for Red Sails Festival then on to Cookstown for the Ulster Pipe Band Championships where we will be located right in the heart of the action on both occasions. Look forward to seeing you there
Tom & Julie