President Jim Cox warmly welcomed members, wives, partners and guests at the Club’s annual lunch on October 30 at the Kings Court Hotel in Alcester.

Our guest of honour, Dave Smith, President of the Broadway club, caused much laughter by suggesting that instead of Probus standing for retired ‘Professionals and Businessmen’, it should mean “prostate removed, other bits under suspicion”.

Indeed, throughout the event there was much laughter and cheerful conversation, not least with the ladies finding out a little bit more of what their men get up to on Thursday mornings. There was even a surprise gift for three ladies whose names were drawn out of a hat.

Members, especially Ron and Roger who hoped not to be named, agreed that the event had been a resounding success and sincerely thanked Clive Allen for making all the necessary arrangements.

Brian Melville proposed the toast to the ladies and Sophie Dodds made the response. In his closing remarks, Jim Cox demonstrated yet more of his comedic skills with some very funny jokes. He also thanked the staff of the Kings Court for looking after us so well again.

Tonight our speaker will be John Hincks who will give us 175 years of P&O.

CHRIS DONOUGH