The Annual presentation dinner took place last weekend (18th May) at Crewe Golf Club. This year the event had a very important dual purpose. We were presenting the annual trophies as normal, but in addition, we wanted to mark the stepping down of David Sumner from the position of Chairman. Dave has occupied this role for 29 years and achieved some terrific accomplishments in that time. He was in fact Tournament Secretary for 17 years prior to that so we have a great deal to thank him for. This event was an opportunity to all say 'Thank You David'. 

Dave received some great gifts as part of the celebration. John Hunter and Carl McGregor-Ogden plied him with Liverpool FC memorabilia including a display shirt with Sumner 29 on it. They went on to say many great things. Ruth Raiswell (who organised the Dinner in lieu of Dave) paid her own tribute including some flowers for Terry Sumner (the power behind the throne perhaps?) and an afternoon tea invitation at Crewe Hall. Steve Aylott represented our missing colleagues from Cheshire CBA (due to illness unfortunately). Brian Horrocks paid a fitting tribute with a signed card from many members of clubs and a personalised album of letters written by people past and present who wanted to say that personal thank you to Dave. In reply Dave reminisced a little and recalled some of the more esoteric events, like Married couples tournaments, Children in Need, Nathan Robertson/Gail Emms workshop, Junior League and the new Singles competition. Times have changed and the league has changed with them. Dave has had a massive impact on us all for a long time now.

The presentations were made under Kara Robinsons guidance to tournament winners/runners-up, John Ford winners (Crosses), divisional titles and most important of all the most improved player in the league this year was revealed as Matthew Owen of Crosses BC. Matthew has had a lot of coaching and played in both junior and senior leagues. His ascent has been most impressive. Many people see in him the talent that went on to become uncle Iain Owen - a fine player who has played county and is still regularly picking up trophies in our league.

Photos are in the gallery on the web site but attached here is a special one of Dave receiving his Liverpool shirt.