28 Sep 2009 / GALA DINNER DEFIES ECONOMIC GLOOM!

REVELRIES MARK 2009 CRICKETING SUCCESS

Despite the prospect of a poor economic climate threatening to dampen members' financial spirits, last Friday's Gala Dinner was hailed a resounding success!

Held at The West End Cabaret and Restaurant in West Bridgford's Central Avenue, ROTCC members were able to celebrate their supremely successful year in style, enjoying a delicious carvery meal in splendid, easy company - and managing to raise a handy £1300 along the way!

Among the moneyspinners was a raffle, where participants eyed the prospect of winning a complimentary meal at fabulous new Indian restaurant, Lalon, or a free hour's coaching session with ex-Derby County batsman, Dan Birch - among the other superb gifts - with glee.  The prize auction - where a caricature of ‘Freddie' Flintoff by celebrated local caricaturist, Graham Fowell, a signed England ODI shirt, and a 2009 signed Notts bat were up for grabs - proved a hit with guests, following a rowdy game of Heads and Tails!

Wildcard auction lot of the evening, though, had to go to Dave Bishop's offer of a free eight hours' worth of painting - won earlier as a raffle prize.  After being donated back to the club, it was offered up as an auction prize, realizing a surprise further £120 for club coffers and bringing the auction haul to £400!

Winners of the `60s to 80s' Fancy Dress Competition were Julia Torr, who dazzled in a quirky 60s geometric satin dress, and Lee Houghton's Afro wig, ably abetted by the rest of his outfit!  Dave Bishop was awarded the special prize for wearing a 70s-style Pringle sweater, then later took to the stage to provide welcome entertainment for everyone in the form of an impromptu dance display!   Quickly joining him, others soon happily boogied along to the 70s themed disco into the wee small hours.

In an earlier address, ROTCC Chairman, Dan Sutton, acknowledged how proud the Club was to have achieved such a high level of success across the 2009 season, culminating in record achievements for its junior squads and much deserved promotion for its top three Saturday senior sides, with the Saturday First XI being pick of the crop with their qualification to the 2010 Premier League.

The Club would like to extend its thanks to Pauline and staff of The West End Cabaret and Restaurant for providing a delightful meal in such convivial surroundings.  It would also like to express its appreciation to all those who donated prizes for both the raffle and the auction.

Finally, the organiser would like to express her gratitude to all guests for coming along and making the evening such a memorable and successful occasion, and for their generosity in raising much-needed funds.