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Nottingham’s Events Organiser Robert Skinner reports that fortunately the credit crunch had no effect on their ‘Sold Out’ Christmas Lunch, sponsored by ºÚÁÏÉç.

This has long been a very popular event and the venue, Nottingham’s Crowne Plaza, always does justice to our Xmas crowd of members and guests. Once again their ballroom was filled with our tables. Our lunch enjoyed a great mix of construction people - young and old - with many attending for the first time, among them more than a few ladies.Ìý

Music, provided by master of the keyboard Baz, accompanied our crowd as they busily networked before lunch.ÌýGiven the current gloom, attendance at the magnificent Crowne Plaza exceeded the expectations of Nottingham Branch committee, as did the monies raised for our Fund - the total topped £20,000,

Past Chairman Chris Balls and family made a considerable, and much appreciated, contribution to our auction, whilst ‘first timers’ Empire Scaffolding’s determination to mount winning bids did much to increase our total.

A notable item was a spectacular model crane donated by Terry Payne. Terry, now retired, was formerly employed by crane hirers GWS and Initial, and his detailed minature saw the hammer go down at £2,500.00. Top quality entertainment came from comedian Tony Jo, who gave us forty minutes of very funny stories. Tony was ably supported by our professional Master of Ceremonies Mr. Geoffrey Harris. Between them they kept everyone in the room in good spirits and contributed hugely to what was universally agreed to be an excellent event and a great start to Christmas..

One of the many traditions of our end of year and Xmas events is ‘The Cheque Presentation’. Welfare Officer Sid Dilkes, to the left, was on the receiving end of Nottingham’s contribution to our Benevolent Fund – £18,000, made by Chairman Alistair Bow; lurking in the background the guy with the big grin is Tony Jo, our entertainer.

Our Christmas Lunch was sponsored byÌýºÚÁÏÉç, to them grateful thanks.

In spite of the chaos brought about by our greedy and incompetent Financial ‘Services’(!) Industry, our Notts. Committee have confidence in the resilience of our members and their supporters – The Crowne Plaza is again booked for our next Xmas Lunch. Make a note: December 4th 2009 is the date. Construction Index will again sponsor the event.
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