West Down Wheelers Silver Anniversary

West Down Wheelers celebrated their 25th anniversary at their Annual Dinner and Awards night in the Albert Bar and restaurant in Banbridge on Friday night 14th November.
Bronagh and I were honoured to be invited guests and we enjoyed the evening immensely.

Club Chairman Billy Maxwel covered the history of the club in his speech. He remarked that this year had been a great success with good open promotions and a vibrant club racing scene. He talked at length of the clubs riders achievements in local and open events.
Paul Wilkonsons results were highlighted particularly his 4th place overall and high stage placings in the Newry 3 Day.

The Hard working volunteers who marshall, timekeep and do all the neccessary jobs that keep a real cycling club ticking were given high praise. Mr and Mrs Wilkinson were given special mention for marshaling at all the weekly club races, and club president Derek Gamble was presented with a watch to mark his 18 years of timekeeping.

This club makes a point of showing appreciation for volunteers within the club or outside it. Bronagh and I had helped the club at their West Down GP race in May. On the day we were thanked a lot and went home feeling appreciated.
It was a really nice surprize when Clive Adamson contacted Bronagh in September to invite us as guests. 

Clive and Billy (Maxwell) asked us up to present the extensive awards which also included a basket of fruit for Bronagh! The good humoured banter between everyone was very entertaining. Great food was served at the Albert (at the top of the town) and well worth a visit if in the area. 

The Celebratory cake was baked by their own club member Matthew McKinstry and distributed to everyone with their tea or coffee. Chairman and secretary of Cycling Ulster (Tommy and Marian Lamb) were also guests.

report by Brendan Kirk