Henley Royal Regatta came to mind as guests were blessed with lovely weather for Jeremy Picton-Turbervill’s second Presidents’ Lunch at Ross Rowing Club on Sunday, May 20th.

The sun shone, the guests were in their finery and everyone had a very pleasant and relaxing lunch watching not only Ross Junior rowers training on the river but also an aerial display of 20+ microlights and paragliders.

Amongst the 80 members and guests, were six former Presidents, five Vice-Presidents, four Chairmen, nine Captains, one Treasurer, and many donors to the club, and it was great to see so many who have contributed to the club over the past seven decades.

Before lunch the President and Chairman thanked the audience for their support and donations to club funds. Notable contributions were from Clive Snell who provided funds to purchase a Filippi Single Scull for the Juniors aptly named ‘Trigate Tornado’.

Another former President, Nigel Shepherd, provided funds for the club Defibrillator and promised more to improve camping facilities. A highlight of the event was when Jeff Pratt, who sponsored the new disabled access ramp, cut the ribbon to officially declare it open for use.

Thanks were also extended to Club members who helped with preparing the site, food catering and staffing the bar. Other sponsors include John Lewis Fine Foods who donated the superb new potatoes and salads and Eric Drummond who donated the delicious strawberries.

Graham Watling, the Club Chairman said: “Overall the event was about celebrating the club success, but it also raised significant funds for the club which is always a bonus.”