Pres Disco 2008 |
Photographic Evidence
Silly Strictly Dancing
Gerry's Testimonial to John Mackenzie
ILFORD AC ANNUAL DINNER & DANCE - MATCH REPORT
This was held on Friday
evening at the Metropolitan Police Sports & Social Club in Chigwell and
proved to be a most enjoyable evening. Joining popular President John
Mackenzie and his wife Karen on the top table were Essex County AAA
President Ron Dawson and his wife Pam, and guest speaker Liz Nicholl OBE the
Director of Elite Sport at UK Sport who was accompanied by her husband Andy,
an athlete with many past appearances in Ilford's colours.
Former President Gerry Pells proposed a toast to the guests. His speech was
replied to by Liz Nicholl, who told of the preparations behind Olympic
successes at both the 2004 and 2008 Games. Mrs. Nicholl promised, "In 2012
our Olympic athletes will never be better prepared". She also had words of
optimism for Ilford AC saying, "I want to see Ilford AC members involved as
participants, officials and spectators".
A trio of speakers : Frank Heaney, Gary Webb and Andy Catton gave tributes
to President John Mackenzie and provided several amusing anecdotes, before
the latter proposed a toast to The President. In his reply Mr.Mackenzie
spoke movingly of the 3 decades of Club membership which he had so
enjoyed. He recollected that he came to the area when moving from the
north; and had in fact commenced his local athletics with a handful of
appearances for near-neighbours Woodford Green AC before finding his true
home with Ilford AC.
A commemorative plaque was presented to the President on behalf of the Club
by former Secretary Sally Gillam, after which the rest of the evening was
turned over to dancing provided by a live group.
D.A.