25th Anniversary Dinner Dance

Ross Park Dinner Dance Rally Report.

In the mid bleak winter month of November, thoughts turned to the Annual Dinner Dance, which was planned to be held in January 2025 in the Ross Park Hotel, Kells, Ballymena. 

     A raffle which would give two nights bed and breakfast stay in the hotel was organized as a first prize and a second prize of the meal for two, valued at £70. There was Great excitement at the New Year rally when Jacqueline and Mark Hutchinson were the lucky recipients of the weekend and Alex and Ivan Mellon received their £70 back for the cost of the meal for two.                Balloons were ordered with our 25th Anniversary shamrock sticker on them. Timings for the sparkling wine reception on the Saturday evening prior to the meal was coordinated with the hotel. The photographer from the Ballymena Guardian, Darren Crawford, was asked to attend. We will look forward to seeing the pictures of the committee with their 25th Anniversary Cake. 

     Table settings typed up and table place cards ordered. 98 persons paid for their meals. Menu choices for all typed up and sent to the hotel 48 hours prior to the event. Unfortunately, one couple, our own beloved Tom and Agnes Adair were unable to attend due to illness. Having let me know on the Wednesday evening they will get a refund. 38 motorhomes parked in the carpark over the weekend. 

     Thank you, Robbie Hewitt for parking the majority of them. Also, for ensuring those who had booked into the hotel negotiated through the icy path without injury.  A special thanks to Sally and Norman McKee who appreciated the hard work that goes into our rallies. I will enjoy the wine and I do love the flowers. Many thanks. At 6.45 on Saturday 11th January we made our way to the foyer. A sparkling wine reception greeted all members. After photographs of the well-scrubbed up members, had been taken, we went to the beautifully decorated dining room. 

     The meal which followed was excellent. Our beloved Chairman Sam Arlow thanked the members for their support. Commended his committee on their hard work so far this year and thanked the staff of Ross Park. Advised members that the raffle, which had SIX £25 prizes, FOUR £50 prizes and TWO £75 prizes all totalling £500 cash, was going to be drawn in the break. Also, thanks to members who had donated some prizes and along with other motorhome prizes would take the value of the raffle to near £1000. Much better still the ballots for the raffle were FREE! 

     Music by Keep er Lit kept the members on the dance floor all night. Following not too much sleep, the next morning, the cake was cut and along with shortbread, we had tea and coffee and a fond farewell to one and all until the next time when we will celebrate Burns Night in Cookstown. Neeps and Tatties and a wee nip of whiskey will be on offer. Safe travels to all. Irene Hewitt