A good turnout of 25 of us braved the January freeze to visit the Marisco Lounge on Sandside. After drinks downstairs, we had private use of the upper floor, which proved to be an excellent venue. After a good meal of vegetable soup followed by steak, fries and salad, Chairman Charlie inducted the latest new member, Alex McCallum.

Brief business occurred, with a sobering report from Ben Kitto to say that while the Santa Sleigh had raised nearly £3000 this time around, the lack of volunteer elves might mean that it won’t happen next year unless extra help can be found. This would be a great shame because it’s an important event not just for the fundraising, but also to raise the profile of Round Table. It would appear that 41 Club can do more in the future to keep this long standing event viable in the years to come. 

Michael Whiteley then reassured us all that he has completely recovered after being rescued from the sea by the lifeboat suffering with severe hypothermia, after being unable to get back to shore. Michael then encouraged us all to attend a quiz on Friday 23^rd February at the Rugby Club, in aid of the Sparks Project. 

Lastly, we had an enthusiastic presentation about the Sea Cadets from the Chairman of Trustees, Bob Smith.

Bob told us that the Sea Cadets range from 10 to 18 years of age, and presently there are approximately 120 of them. They follow the values of Admiral Lord Nelson which are Leadership, Duty and Sacrifice. They were founded about 100 years ago, and are completely self-funding. Cadets enjoy the opportunity to take part in various pastimes such as sailing, mountain biking and mountaineering, as well as learning new social skills. Chairman Charlie thanked Bob and off we went back into the cold outdoors. 

A great evening was had by members and wives at the Market Hall on Saturday night, dancing and having fun listening to the music of “The Seasons”, a tribute act performing the songs of Franki Valli and the Four Seasons.

Some members had been to the 41 Club lunchtime event at the Scarborough rugby ground earlier that day, had not been home between the two events and were enjoying a very merry day.

The dancing prize went to Dave Ascough who was thoroughly enjoying himself dancing mainly on his own for most of the night.

Grateful thanks to the team for organising the event.

Twenty-one brave members and guests braved the arctic winds of Scalby to enjoy Scarborough Rugby Club entertain Moortown. Actually it was a mild December day and Sporting Officer Darren had arranged hospitality, so the group was very much the prawn sandwich brigade. Indeed probably for the first time ever the club with a real life Sir and Lady. The group enjoyed an excellent lunch with abundant refreshment and then courageously stepped out onto the adjacent balcony to watch the match.

Your correspondent kept close to Ian Brabbs who explained the finer points of play to him. His words about the referees bias were less charitable, it would seem that all the sin binning of Scarborough players was absolutely unjustified. It was a classic game of two halves, Moortown stormed into a seemingly unassailable lead, then after a talking to at half-time Scarborough hit back. It was not enough and Moortown ran out comfortable winners.

Our group retired for more refreshments missing the beautiful sunset over the castle. Thanks to Darren for arranging a really successful afternoon of sport and camaraderie.