ABBA once sang “what’s another year” and although it’s hard to argue with one of the most successful bands in history, as far I am concerned, they never owned a motorhome or played a gig in Lisburn RFC on 31st December.
Having been admirably led through the year by Chairman David, Vice Chair Joe and fellow Committee, this was an extra special celebration for our club as it marked our first full year of events and we have certainly made not just progress, but an abundance of memories along the way. So, neither flu nor weather warnings were going to deter Ramblers eager to meet in Lisburn and celebrate New Year 2025.
Sadly David & Bridget and Enda & Flo were unable to join us as they busily made preparations for warmer climates, but with warm wishes received from them, we wish them safe travels as they head off to the sun. And to fellow members Drew & Annette and Pete & June as well who soon set off to the sun too. Our thoughts were also with those sadly unable to be with us on this occasion. Get Well Soon all of you.
So at the strike of 3pm the ever-faithful Paul & Lesley made their way in and members continued to arrive late into the night, with Alan & Noleen making their way in near midnight. In the meantime, however, Florence was restored to Bingo duties and dutifully reeled off the digits and made it a very happy time for many and especially the Niblock family who were out in force and won a couple of rounds. A few tunes then followed as the conversation flowed till bedtime.
Yet more vans arrived on Tuesday as members came and went with some enjoying the Sprucefield and Lisburn retail experience. However, all made sure to be back for the afternoon as members met in the clubhouse for Mulled Wine & Mince Pies and a helping of Mrs Little Jr’s shortbread for good measure. Sadly, this means I don’t have any shortbread now, but I suppose it is the season of giving after all!
This was a genuine highlight of the weekend and not a drop of wine or crumb of pie was left as members relaxed by the fire and shared conversation in a true communion of the festive season, demonstrating exactly what the Ramblers are all about. It was perhaps fitting that a tub of “Celebrations” made its way round the room.
It would not be the same without them and, true to form the dedicated Coalter Family hot-footed all the way up from Brookeborough in time to join everyone in the clubhouse for the main event. Tables were literally groaning under the strain of all the food & nibbles which was perfect fuel to energise us for what was to come. Wine flowed, tunes played and the with the fire still roaring conversation continued as we danced our way to zero-hour with DJ Joe playing set after set of party hits.
Come the midnight hour everyone was on the floor and at the finish of the countdown members embraced both the New Year and one another. A rousing rendition of Auld Lang Syne was sung as we then started the new year just as we had finished the old one by bouncing up and down on the floor to hit after hit. A conga soon snaked around the tables and Dominic the Donkey even made an appearance. He is a sly little fellow because although we could all hear him we could not see him, even though Yvonne tried especially hard!!
A first sleep of the new year beckoned, and member were treated to a lie in before waking up on a wonderfully sunny morning to complete the event. On that note, and on behalf of The Littles it was an absolute pleasure to be among and host you all on what was an event brimming with warmth and friendship. We should all be proud of the club our members have built and as one remarked this was a “Superb New Year. Definitely one that will be remembered”.
So there you have it ABBA. 2024 wasn’t just another year after all. It was “Super Trouper” instead!!
The Little Family