Their plane had been moved from the hangar to the runway and tables and chairs for 55 guests were arranged in rows. People brought their own 'covers'. There were candelabras, tea lights, table cloths and runners, place mats, an array of fine dining cutlery and crockery, cut glass and crystal. The winners of the best cover competition were James and Julie Hart who had a pirate theme complete with hats and swords.
Drinks and a fine selection of canapés were served by Jackie's team of waitresses while Pierre the saxophonist regaled us with blues and jazz classics. All agreed the live music gave the event a special lift. The main meal was served as a buffet and tables went up in turn to serve themselves with pork fillet in a creamy mustard and mushroom sauce, chicken kebabs served with a red pepper sauce, a superb roast potato salad, three bean salad and green salad. There was an ample amount for seconds and thirds for the hungriest before a regional speciality of apple croustade served with cream was brought to the tables by the waitresses.
As the sun went down so the breeze brought a freshness to proceedings. The two captains, Rob Jones and Mike Vickers announced the pairing for the Monday competition at Pallanne and there were many jingoistic rallying calls from the Grenadiers captain. Thanks were paid to Reg and Lucy for hosting, and to the food and drink team from Tillac. As people headed home to the backdrop of a firework display at nearby Rabastens we were all saying it had been the best Welcome Party ever.