President's Blog - July 2023
President Debbie Mason-Smith looks back on a very busy month!
July has flown by with pretty dreadful weather and subsequent cancellation of cricket and tennis matches. Before the rain fell, Dan Wakefield and I were invited to walk around the pitch at teatime at the England v Ireland Test Match at Lords in honour of the success of the Neston All Sports Stars and the National Innovation Award won by Bern Thorne. It was a fantastic privilege; we were applauded by the spectators, and this has left a memory Dan and I will never forget.
Separately, Dan Wakefield is performing an Autumn Organ Recital at the Parish Church in Neston on 1st October at 2.30pm & entry is free. For those who have listened to Dan play in the Club, you will know what a talented Organist he is.
Marquee week was a great success. Roger Black did not fail to impress as Guest Speaker at the Sporting Lunch. The Ball and Proms were magnificent events as always and the marquee looked splendid. The caterers, Horseradish, produced exquisite fine dining style food for over 650 guests at the luncheon and a full marquee at The Ball – an unbelievable feat to achieve from the marquee kitchen.
On Friday evening The Club introduced a new event called Sunset Sounds with local bands and solo musicians playing throughout the evening. The weather was scorching and everyone was able to sit outside and enjoy the music with a drink in one hand and a freshly made pizza in the other. Feedback has been so positive and I know they are already planning for next year.
An enormous amount of work goes into Marquee Week and although the staff absolutely love it, I know they are exhausted by Sunday evening. So, a massive thank you to Craig at the helm, to Kat, Courtney, Nick, Paddy and Paris for the extra work and hours they put in and of course our wonderful staff who work tirelessly behind the bar and waiting on tables. A special mention to Andy Mills who spent many hours ensuring the sound and lighting system enhanced all the events.
You may have noticed that work has started on the Tennis Pavilion, it is going to look spectacular when finished and will be a space for everyone to use. Chris White, Head Tennis Coach, has moved his storeroom into a new area incorporated to the Groundsmen’s hut. Updates will be posted here.
Please also visit the individual Sections’ tabs on the website to see how their teams are getting on and latest news from each Section. If you would like to be added to a weekly update on what’s going on by WhatsApp message, please contact the Office on 0151 336 4199.
Congratulations to Tennis Chairman Simon Speirs on being awarded volunteer of the year by Cheshire LTA! Simon has done a fantastic job bringing the social tennis scene to life at Neston.
I am sure you will all be aware of the Open Golf Championship held at the Royal Liverpool Golf Club this month and it’s worth noting that our own Golf Section run by Emma Nokes & Nick Morrison is growing at an incredible pace, bringing together members of varying ages from different sections. Emma & Nick have already organised five successful outings (despite some challenging weather conditions) and have plans for more in the coming months. For the first time the Golf Section will be included in the awards at the President’s Dinner this year. Date for Diary – 10th November.
Don’t forget the very popular fortnightly Wednesday evening quiz organised by Emma Nokes and guest quiz master Dan Wakefield. Also Thursday Group Summer Sports are well underway for our senior members. If you know anyone who would be interested in a game of croquet, bowls or boules, a cuppa and a chat, pass on the word that they would be most welcome on Thursday afternoons from 2pm.
Best wishes to you all,
Deb Mason-Smith - The Neston President
