Well, the darkest of the Winter is at least now behind us and though here in Saddleworth the weather of late has turned decidedly wet and windy, we have for the most part been able to continue walling albeit with the loss of Practice Meets in January and February.
Our Christmas Bash was a very enjoyable evening once again held at The Cross Keys, Uppermill and we enjoyed a good turnout of old and new members. The hi-lights of the evening were the mystery Christmas gifts raffle AKA ‘unloading of last year’s not required Christmas presents.’
Our now resident MC Mr Peter Taft upped the laughter quotient following on with his unique version of the popular ‘Just A Minute’ Quiz.
In third place was my always humble self for my review of a local Brewery and their inability to brew beer which was deemed too short under the revised quiz rules. Decorum prevents quoting the review in full but a well brewed cup of tea was considered a safer bet than their beer.
Second place went to our esteemed Branch Chairman Mr Chris Bolshaw for an unbeatable score on repetition, so much so that Chris’s catchphrase has now become his moniker: If you think it’s a topper, then it’s a Topper. Chris was awarded a baseball hat duly emblazoned and which he wears with pride.
In first place was the beamish Mrs Val Lee who had apparently and inadvertently regaled a ROBbers meet with a story about taking someone to hospital in Devon. This tale scored “tens” across the board for repetition, hesitation, deviation and generally going nowhere the long way round.
The patient recovered.
The always popular Taft Music Quiz made an excellent finale to the evening. Peter’s extensive knowledge of popular music provided for much scratching of heads and “oh, yes, I knew it, I knew it!” – as the answers were announced. A good evening for all.
Since the last report there have been no Training courses but the ROBbers (R.O.B. = Retired Old Buggers), otherwise known as the Mid-Week Wallers, have continued working as conditions have permitted and have enjoyed assisting with our Friends of Crompton Moor comrades. Their latest mini project is a stone seat for their many dog walkers and it has been an interesting project for the rest of us. Further expeditions across the moor are planned for 2022.
Mid-week we are currently settled at Harrop edge for the simple reason that the site drains well and is flat.
A number of jobs will become available at Ridge Farm as the weather improves and stone supplies are located.
Well-i-Hole farm is definitely off the menu for a few weeks as it is seriously under water. Further potential sites await confirmation of availability but there is no danger of shortness of projects.
All in all, a quiet Winter period. The Branch is looking forward to the new season.
Happy walling everybody.