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VICE-PRESIDENTS’ LUNCH
SAT 27th MARCH 2010
Another successful Vice Presidents’ Lunch was held at the Club on Sat 27th March with about 60 members and guests attending. As usual, it was a most convivial occasion with old friendships renewed.
Before the start of the buffet, members stood in silence to remember Vic Gudgeon, (Sam’s minder), and Brian ‘Flash’ Ashworth, (renowned for his songs and poems). Gerry Brown read out the eulogy, which he had delivered at Flash’s funeral.
We were pleased to welcome David Smith from Huntsville, Ontario, Canada who was brought along by his second cousin, former prop Joe Wilkinson. See photograph of David with President Peter Hughes. Also in the family party were David’s two son-in-laws, his grandson and cousin, Joe Wilkinson senior. David had played for Calder Vale in the early fifties, when the Prairie was the home ground, before emigrating to Canada in 1964 on becoming a purser with Canadian Pacific. David played with such Calder Vale legends as Clive Currie, Harold Hargreaves, Alec Pickles, Ronnie Spencer and Alan Wilkinson.
President, Peter Hughes, presented Paul Roden with a President’s tie. See photograph. Paul joined Calder Vale from Blackpool in 1982 when he was transferred to Burnley by the police. He was a regular pillar of the first team pack and has played this season before breaking his hand. He successfully organised, and firmly managed, seven tours to countries as diverse as Holland and China. As a result of Rodey’s efforts, hundreds of Calder Vale and Burnley RUFC players had the opportunity to play on foreign fields and enjoy the camaraderie and cultural experiences of a Rugby tour. He was a fearsome Crown Prosecutor at court sessions, sharing a hilarious double act with Lord Chief Justice McNabb.
The only unfortunate happening of a very happy day was that the first team sadly lost to Oldham by 15-26.
As ever, thanks are due to Mickey Duerden for his tireless organisation. Watch this space for the date of the 2010 Autumn Vice Presidents’ Lunch. It will be held late in October before the end of British Summertime and the Internationals. The exact date will depend on the league fixtures.
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