Horses, I mean! Last night saw the end of an era when our President Richard Evans hosted his last Race Night at the Choir Hall. This was his 18th Race Night which over the years has raised an enormous amount of money to help the Choir continue entertaining the public with its tremendous music and enabling it to continue with its own charity work.
The proceedings were compèred expertly throughout the evening by bass chorister John Jones. Nearly 200 choristers and supporters attended to make this a fabulous night of winners and losers (all in a good cause). Randomised filmed races were run throughout the evening to both loud cheering and groans of disappointment, as the line was crossed. Those unlucky with the gee-gees may have been more fortunate in the raffle at half time, but everyone was a winner when the fabulous buffet was served. Many thanks to Bob Doggett and Ann for this.
A huge amount of work was put in by the ladies who helped with the catering, feeding all those people in turn could not have been easy. We mustn’t forget the ‘tellers’ who slaved away keeping an accurate tally of the bets and counting up the money nor the bar staff of Wyn, Spike and Dave, assisted by, among others, new member Paul Thomas. It’s good to see new members getting stuck in. Lighting was controlled immaculately by Roger Francis and a big thank you, as always to those few who resolutely turn up to set up and clean the hall afterwards.
Many thanks must go to the sponsors (many of them choir members), without whom the money would not have been raised, but most thanks and praise must go to Richard who was presented by chairman Leon Jones, on behalf of the Choir,with a magnificent bronze statuette of a winning horse and jockey being led by its trainer. This very appropriate award was made to mark his magnificent contribution over the years by organising such successful, enjoyable fund raising events.
Left click on the photos to enlarge.
Photos by Lyn
Footnote: Tragically, John M Jones, compère for this evening , died suddenly at his home in Bristol on Wednesday 16th May 2012. You will be a hard act to follow, John and you will be remembered at every future Race Night.