Last week the club hosted another successful sponsors lunch for the companies that support the club financially, Life members, Vice Presidents and the press, all of whom are a vital part of the club's structure. We have large, good quality facilities which are costly to maintain and the committee are reluctant to increase membership fees or the cost of hiring the indoor court. Therefore it seems the least we can do is to say a big Thank You to these very important people..
An excellent lunch was provided by Jan Gaskill, Fran Shacklock, Bridget Stewart, Pat Sharp and Robbie Orr, whose delicious cheesecake disappeared quicker than a rabbit down a hole!! Everyone was welcomed by Club President, Bryan Sharp who thanked all the guests for the continuing support the club has received over more than 20years. Most of the money goes to the Mini Tennis and Junior programme in the form of coaching and tournaments plus the upkeep of the indoor court which is used for 10 - 15 hours per week for these activities. Albany's policy is to "encourage children to play and enjoy tennis". After the excellent lunch Chairman, Stuart Colligon, thanked the ladies for a lovely meal and also Hilary Power and Emma Raybon for assisting with clearing up. We all look forward to next year's lunch and we are likely to have more guests as two companies are interested in being part of the Albany Support team. If any member knows of a company that would like to display a banner in the indoor court please contact me on 861497 (498597) or e-mail albanytennispr@manx.net. It only costs ?3 per week rental!!
The committee will be meeting next Tuesday so if any member has suggestions for the coming season's activities, fund raising, wants to play in the league etc, now is the time to let us now.
The scheme to provide funds for a new lounge carpet is gathering pace with a third of the tiles already sold. Also we have had a large donation from the Friday Ladies group following their AGM last week., plus funds from the Junior Christmas tournament and quiz. Thank you to you all.
I'm still knitting scarves, hats etc for the Children of Chernobyl so if anyone any spare wool, preferably double knitting, please leave it at the club. Thank you.
