The Royal St George Yacht Club, Dun Laoghaire

Some things never change. The first such Old Folks Party was held in January 1970 so this year was the 40th anniversary of the event. It has become a bit of a club institution at this stage.

In some ways it is a shame that Jack Kirwan, one of the people responsible for the idea in the first place, and principal organiser for most of the 40 years; was not with us to see how much the party was enjoyed by the guests. However it is a fitting tribute to his idea that the event survives him. With any luck the club will still be hosting the party for another 40 years.

Thanks as always to the members of the club for their generous contributions to the funding of the event. The MC kicked off the party with a rendition of "The Eddystone Light" - a favourite of Jack's. Despite the best of intentions we suspect Jack would have groaned in disapproval at the poor imitation of his gregarious performance.

The event is really the last of the Christmas season and we all enjoyed a super Turkey and Ham dinner so it is appropriate that the next songs to get things going were ‘Rudolph' and ‘Jingle Bells'. Then the real singing started and most of the guests were delighted to perform their own favourite party piece and they are their own best entertainment.

Santa took time out of his relaxing January to distribute gifts to all present, and sneak the odd kiss here and there!

Ellen O'Malley Dunlop returned to the Club to add to the entertainment for a few popular songs; and as ever Father Martin Clarke accompanied the singers on the piano. Thanks to them as always. Thanks also to the catering staff at the Club who made the day very special for the guests. Dick Lovegrove also deserves particular mention. Whilst not on the organising committee quite as long as Jack Kirwan; Dick was and is an enthusiastic supporter of the event but has decided that he is retiring from the committee this year. Many thanks to him for his valued work.

AK
January 2010