Lady of the Lake Irvinestown 25

Lady of the Lake Festival takes place annually every July in Fermanagh. This year the theme was “Land of Oz”, and our Meet started on the 17th in Irvinestown with our hosts Marie, Peter, Irene and Robbie ably checking in and parking up 31vans.At 3pm many made their way to a Tea Dance in the local hotel, Mahon's where refreshments were served. And later in the evening a fancy dress (Wizard of Oz theme) paraded through the small town followed by a table quiz, again in Mahon's. The weather did not disappoint despite the showery forecast, and members socialised together in the sunshine outside their vans catching up from the previous Rally. 

     Friday morning, the sun was out early and at leisure many members strolled into town to visit the shops, castle and wonderful atmosphere that a festival brings. On our return, we were all delighted to be treated to delicious tray bakes by one of our members Gabi McCall. She certainly must be congratulated for making approximately 80 yummy Fifteens. Music played in many of the pubs both day and night, with the evening coming to an end with an annual vintage vehicle parade and Festival of Lights. The latter was lead by the Irvinestown Community Mummers, shortly followed by a parade of Trucks through the town. What a spectacle that was. 

     Saturday morning yet another surprise awaited everyone. A very generous gesture by the committee of a £10 voucher for tea/coffee and scones was given to members to enjoy in the adjacent café. The home baking on display made it so difficult what to choose and we had another opportunity to catch up with friends. The highlight of the day took place at 1.30pm with the Hole Digging competition. One of our members Brian Warnock, dressed for the occasion accompanied with long spade. The aim of the dig was to see who could dig the deepest hole. While Brian did not win the prize, he did receive a medal and was given tremendous support from the club. The evening drew to a close with the Truckers Dance for those who enjoyed dancing, while others preferred more relaxation time in the local pubs or having a quiet bbq.

      Sunday morning farewell at 11am our chairman Sam Arlow welcomed two new members to our club, Ann and Ivan Junkin. He also welcomed four visitors from Dorset, Babs and Dick Cheek accompanied by Judy and Roy Clark. Sam stated that the £345 given by MCCNI for parking in the Creamery Business Park was donated by Kevin Monaghan to Marie Curie Cancer Care. The two number plate draws were won by Roy and Sandra Ferguson and Irene & Robbie Hewitt. Lowry and Sandie Smyth.