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Well, what can I say about the Weekend that will do justice to what went on? For a start the Friday
night of the Roundup set the standard for the rest of the weekend. It was great, from the point of view of the committee, to see lots of visitors, many of them in Western dress. All of them were obviously intent on
enjoying themselves, and we had a great atmosphere right from the beginning.
Our artists, the male duo Brokenheartsville, were new to me, but they were talented musicians who soon
had the floor vibrating to the music. One artist played not only the guitar but also the mandolin and the banjo, great stuff!
Their repertoire included songs like 'The Drinking Bone' and the up-to-date 'The World' as well as some
of the more usual songs. There were instrumental interludes too.
Then, just when we thought it could only be downhill from then on as Rivendel Country had had to
cancel, along came The Andy Bell Sound on the Saturday Night.
They were a husband and wife duo, Andy Bell playing the guitar, the mandolin, the banjo AND the harmonica and
his wife playing the keyboard with various pedals to produce different sounds. At one point Andy had both the guitar and the mandolin around his neck - unbelievable!
The repertoire was again fantastic and the floor was crowded with dancers, all of them having a great
time. The Andy Bell Sound were having a great time too. They played long past the allotted time and even included the American and Mexican Trilogies. Preacher tried to get a word in once or twice, but failed, which
was a first as all those who know him will testify!
Meanwhile there were lots of great activities going on on the floor. I particularly remember Malc and
Mel having their union blessed by Preacher in his preacher's outfit, while Wild Bill and Curly staggered in under the weight of a miniscule anvil.
The Sunday night artist was different again. This time it was the talented and attractive Mary Anne,
who sang with and without her guitar. She delivered Country songs in the manner of a folk singer, thus blending the two traditions.
Mary Anne and Preacher seemed to empathise with one another, and so she invited him to sing a duet with
her at one point. Not all our artists are that brave!
Again there were all sorts of other activities taking place. At one point Preacher was shot, I think
for allegedly attempting to steal something at an event of Bronco's. After a trial he was condemned and shot, but then he got up again. Ah, well!
The Lichfield crowd were with us again, and they provided lots of entertainment, including the 'Blues
Brothers' doing a turn. At one point Ian was tied up and then whipped by female members of the Lichfield gang. Unfortunately I can't precisely remember when or why!
Meanwhile a group of 'saloon girls' took to the floor and gyrated around certain 'gentlemen' to their
obvious enjoyment. To be honest there was too much going on to report everything, so if you're really interested in finding out you'll just have to come along and see for yourself.
I believe the club was open on Thursday night, but I don't know what went on because I wasn't there. On
Saturday and Sunday afternoon there was a Fast Draw Competition and Field Sports. Medals and certificates were presented to the winners on Sunday evening. (see photos)
There was also a Fast Draw competition during each evening when awards were presented. On Friday the
winners were, 3rd Outlaw, 2nd Frosty and 1st Sundance. On Saturday the winners were 3rd David, 2nd Bronco and 1st Crazylegs Fred. On Sunday the winners were 3rd K2, 2nd Frosty, 1st Bronco. It was nice to see that some new people were taking part and that the awards were spread about a bit.
There was a raffle every night, and, despite what Preacher says, the prizes aren't stolen. (As far as we
know!) There is also a draw with the door tickets, with a choice of a bottle or chocolates. No expense is spared at our club.
As usual the bar staff did a great job and the food was absolutely superb.
I personally would like to thank everyone who helped make the Roundup Weekend such a resounding success. If I
write a list of names I will immediately leave out someone really vital, and it's a team effort anyway.
However, I think I should say that without the help of Frosty, Rusty and I would have had difficulty running
the afternoon Field Sports, so a big thank you to him. Thank you also to Pauline and Jesse James Junior who helped with the equipment.
The next Roundup will be at Easter, so if you want a good time give us a visit!
Ciao!
Mrs. Rusty
P.S. If you would like to make a comment do put an entry in our guest book.
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