This year's Ladies Evening took place on Saturday 11th October 2008 at The Grand Hotel, Torquay. The Worshipful Master and his wife hosted a very enjoyable event.

Having arrived early to allow time for parking we were pleased to note that there was sufficient space in the Rugby club opposite and there were no charges to pay either! My wife and I made our way to the bar where we were greeted by Pat and Brenda (W.M and wife), as well as a host of other friends.

Malcolm had been very busy organising the evening and the table plan showed that we were on table nine. The hotel had a desk where you could pre-order your wine to help avoid chaos later. The bar was very busy so we were quite glad we had arrived early! Whilst waiting to be served at the bar I recognised a face but the name that went with it was quite elusive. One of the brethren introduced us and I was immediately able to recall where we had met previously. They tell me that your memory gets like that as the years mount up.

The table decorations were gorgeous and the menu made me hungry just reading it. We were not to be disappointed; the food was served hot and was very tasty indeed. Brenda had certainly done a great job in selecting the menu. The ladies gifts were wonderful crystal paperweights which will radiate light and happiness to all.

Entertainment for the evening consisted of a mix between a disco and Matthew, Pat and Brenda's son, who is a professional cabaret act. There was something to suit everybody, including the opportunity to singalong. As the evening progressed more and more people took to the dance floor, including my good wife and I.

One part of the evening that always shows great levels of generosity is the raffle. This year the raffle raised over £300 for Brenda's chosen charity - NSPCC.

As with all great events the evening was over all too soon.  Now we start the long wait until next year's event. But in the meantime there is an awful lot of ritual I need to be learning!

Bro. David Goode