Ladies Committee
Banbridge RFC Ladies Committee
Banbridge Ladies had been assisting at Banbridge RFC functions through the 60's when the idea of forming a Ladies Committee was born.
The first meeting of Banbridge RFC Ladies Committee took place on Monday 10th September 1973 in the Downshire Arms Hotel. The object was to 'act as a sub committee to the general committee for the good of the club in general, to assist in fundraising by organising entertainment which the men of the club would be unable to do on their own and raise the social atmosphere of the club.' The Office bearers 1973/74 were; 'Chairman' - Mrs I Hozack Secretary - Mrs S Ledlie Treasurer - Mrs L Wilson
The Ladies Committee works hard throughout the season catering for visiting dignitaries at pre-match receptions and after match meals for visiting teams.
From then until now the Ladies Committee has flourished and Banbridge RFC is the envy of clubs all over Ireland for the assistance and support they provide.
The ultimate test, however, happens every year at the Annual Club Dinner when the Ladies Committee pulls out all the stops to feed the dozens of members and guests who attend this most enjoyable evening.
New members are always warmly invited and some say it is worth it simply to get a flower and a kiss from the President at the Ladies Committee dinner.
2011 - 2012 Ladies Committee AGM
Chairperson - Carol Thompson Tel: 07870 227127 e-mail: carol@mcculla.co.uk
Secretary - Barbara Cairns Tel: 07990 537504 e-mail: bavcairns@btinternet.com
Treasurer - Karen Jennings Tel: 07841 782394 e-mail: jenningskaren@hotmail.co.uk
Ladies Committee meetings are held in the Clubhouse on the second Wednesday of each month from September to February at 8.00pm. March is the Ladies annual table quiz and April sees the end of season Ladies Dinner.
Wednesday 14th September at 8.00pm
Wednesday 12th October at 8.00pm
Wednesday 9th November at 8.00pm
Wednesday 7th December at 8.00pm - Christmas Party
Wednesday 11th January at 8.00pm
Wednesday 8th February at 8.00pm
Friday 16th March at 8.00pm - Annual Table Quiz
April - Annual Ladies Dinner - Friday night. Date - To Be Announced
It's not all work of course with every monthly meeting having a surprise theme laid on by each particular kitchen team. And of course there is the yearly outing which sometimes involves a night away in a jurisdiction outside Northern Ireland.
A past Chair Person of the Ladies Committee has been honoured for her contribution to the Probation Board for Northern Ireland (PBNI), Criminal Justice System and the community for over thirty six years. On Wednesday 14th December 2011 Pat Best will be in Buckingham Palace receiving her MBE from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth.
The Ladies Committee marked this outstanding achievement with a gift at their Christmas party and wish Pat, John and all the family a very enjoyable day.
The only downside is that Pat and John, who is of course the club Director of Rugby will miss Banbridge's first ever Senior Cup Final apprearance.
Pat receives gift to mark her achievement.
The Ladies discuss their plans.
The gang of Christmas 2011.
