THE 2017 North Cornwall whist holiday was held recently when Bournemouth was the chosen venue.
Forty three players, accompanied by partners stayed at the Devon Towers Hotel and for the beginning of November, they were blessed with fantastic weather.
The holiday, organised by David and Edwina Broad of Tintagel and John and Sue Wonnacott of Bude travelled around the Dorset and Hampshire countryside with trips to Compton Acres where wonderfully laid out gardens were enjoyed, particularly the Japanese gardens.
After lunch, Poole was the destination and a trip around Poole Harbour, which everyone found fascinating and enjoyable, being told of the history of the islands which lie within it. Swanage was also visited, where after lunch, everyone boarded a steam train that travelled to the other side of Corf Castle, which was thoroughly enjoyed, followed by a return journey and then a coach tour around the Dorset countryside.
Thursday was a visit to the Bournemouth Aquarium, followed by an hour relaxing in the sun around the pier, before a ride around the New Forest with a stop at Lyndhurst for lunch and a look around.
Friday saw the morning free, with some visiting the shops, taking long walks or just relaxing, before many had lunch at the hotel and then took part in an afternoon of rainbow whist.
After dinner on the Friday, a presentation was made to Edwina and David and to Sue and John by Ivor Pellow for all their organisation. Thanks were also given to the staff for their professionalism and friendliness and to the driver Steve Tilley and to Tilley’s Coaches.
Throughout the week a tally of scores was kept and the snowball was won by Beryl Welch of Camelford, with the lowest being Doreen Toms from Hittisleigh. Besides the nightly whist and raffle, Friday evening saw an extra prize draw, with gifts being given by the travellers.
Saturday morning came all too quick and everyone boarded the coach for the return journey home, with a stop for lunch at Lyme Regis.
From the week, profits are raised for a local charity and this year the League of Friends of Launceston Hospital was chosen and a cheque was later presented to their chairman, Mrs Pam Parnell for £500.
Everyone now looks forward to late autumn for the 2018 trip.