Madam, The traditional Lions Christmas Day lunch was served again this year at the Ryefield Centre. And despite the cold and snowy weather 78 people attended and meals were taken out to seven others who could not leave home.
Thanks to the superb organisation of Dennis Humble and the hard work of Debbie Griffiths and others of the WRVS, the annual event was a resounding success. Without their efforts, the funding from Ross Lions and the Phoenix Singers, and use of the building allowed by Herefordshire County Council, this joint event could not take place.
Much preparation for the day goes on in advance. This year the rooms were prepared on Christmas Eve with floral decorations from the Garden Store.
The meal was prepared and served by Gay Goodwin of the Rumbling Tum and her team of 'supporters'. Quick thinking was needed when it was found that the gas at the Ryefield Centre had failed just when the vegetables needed cooking! Gay's husband came to the rescue by making sure the vegetables were cooked off-site and transported safely back for serving.
The singers of the New Life Church sang traditional carols and the Mayor of Ross visited to add her good wishes to all. Members of Ross Lions Club were there in support. Thanks too to Lion Gordon Lucas, who made sure Santa was able to visit and distribute a gift to everyone.
Once again the enjoyment of the event was shared not only by those who attended but also those who did all the work on both Christmas Eve and on Christmas Day and who say that are already looking forward to next year!
There is a real buzz on the day and it is great when it all comes together. Many thanks to all of you. Your input made the day so special.
Lion Jim Hamilton
Ross-on-Wye Lions