The Botley
Park Hotel and Spar near Southampton was the venue for the Provincial Weekend
hosted by Bro. Ron Vaz and his wife Nifa. In all, there were 100 brothers and
ladies in attendance including Bro. Stephen Rowden and Monica who, together
with Breed Hassard and Maureen Briggs, represented Guildford Circle.
The usual
Friday golf match was followed in the evening by an Hawaiian themed buffet
which included an 'amusing' session of Bingo which was won by Monica. On the
Saturday, optional trips were available to HMS Victory and Harbour Tour,
Dockyard to Old Portsmouth and a shopping trip to Gunwharf Quays.
In spite of
the hectic schedule, the Guildford party made good use of the hotel gymnasium,
swimming pool and sauna. On Saturday evening, those with sufficient
energy left over from the day's activities, expended it on the dance floor at
the formal Gala Dinner Dance held at the hotel.
On the
Sunday there was a Mass at the nearby St Swithun Wells Church said by Fr Simon
Hall whose father Pat was a member of London South West Circle. To conduct the
Mass, Fr. Simon had travelled all the way from Woking where he is Assistant
Priest. Following Mass, a pleasant lunch was enjoyed at a local Indian
restaurant.
During the
weekend Bro. Dominic O'Shea, Provincial Vice President, announced that the
2019-2020 Provincial Weekend will be held in Arundel. Details to follow.
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| Monica's lucky numbers! |
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| Gala Night |
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| Hawaii 'Four-O' themed buffet |
