News


 

 

 

         Photographic Evidence
           Silly Strictly Dancing
           Gerry's Testimonial to John Mackenzie

 

ILFORD AC ANNUAL DINNER & DANCE - MATCH REPORT

This was held on Friday evening at the Metropolitan Police Sports & Social Club in Chigwell and proved to be a most enjoyable evening.   Joining popular President John Mackenzie and his wife Karen on the top table were Essex County AAA President Ron Dawson and his wife Pam, and guest speaker Liz Nicholl OBE the Director of Elite Sport at UK Sport who was accompanied by her husband Andy, an athlete with many past appearances in Ilford's colours.

Former President Gerry Pells proposed a toast to the guests.  His speech was replied to by Liz Nicholl, who told of the preparations behind Olympic successes at both the 2004 and 2008 Games. Mrs. Nicholl promised, "In 2012 our Olympic athletes will never be better prepared".   She also had words of optimism for Ilford AC saying, "I want to see Ilford AC members involved as participants, officials and spectators".

A trio of speakers : Frank Heaney, Gary Webb and Andy Catton gave tributes to President John Mackenzie and provided several amusing anecdotes, before the latter proposed a toast to The President.   In his reply Mr.Mackenzie spoke movingly of the 3 decades of Club membership which he had so enjoyed.   He recollected that he came to the area when moving from the north; and had in fact commenced his local athletics with a handful of appearances for near-neighbours Woodford Green AC before finding his true home with Ilford AC.

A commemorative plaque was presented to the President on behalf of the Club by former Secretary Sally Gillam, after which the rest of the evening was turned over to dancing provided by a live group.

D.A.