Month: March 2019

On the evening of 15 March approximately sixteen Anglophones with a few guests assembled at the Bowling Alley at Coutances. For those who’ve never been there, “Le Yeti” Bowling is next to the Ice Rink (le Patinoire) on the Rue des Carrieres Saint-Michel opposite La Foir’ Fouille. The whole set up was very similar to that which I knew from family outings in South London in the 1990s. On our night it was quite quiet and we could use three lanes, so the action was fast and furious. Fortunately for many of us, a bar was available.

Raimund had had the bright idea of reviving what had once been a regular social event for the group. I don’t know when the last event took place, but with a few obvious exceptions, most of the participants had not held a bowling bowl for at least twenty years and, perhaps, that’s what made the evening so much fun. As a result of practice, lots of mutual encouragement and top-ups from the bar, everyone’s bowling improved. That is at least to the extent that most attempts led to the ball actually going in the right direction, staying out of the gutter and even knocking a few skittles over.

There was an abundance of laughter and banter throughout the evening. Everyone agreed that it had been a very enjoyable occasion. We’re most grateful to Raimund for his initiative and the time he spent organising the evening and ensuring its success. Please do it again soon!

Write up and photo courtesy of members.

I was delighted to be asked to report on the darts and quiz event at Jaques and Catherine’s beautiful house. The day was perfect, considering we are at the mid-point of February! What could be more British than sharing a few drinks, a sumptuous feed and a game of darts with good friends, to say nothing of Dave’s excellent quiz.

That was exactly what we all enjoyed this Sunday. The spread, provided by all of those present, was varied, plentiful and superbly judged, old favourites combined with exciting dishes, new to many of us. It was then on to a gut-busting selection of puddings.

I think, like many others, that our committee had chosen a perfect event in the ideal setting, providing a much-needed respite from the dreariness of winter. The joyous assembly was sadly marred by Catherine’s illness, which had forced her to remain in bed. She was most sadly missed as our “hostess with the mostest” although the redoubtable Jaques did a fine job in filling the void. We all wish her a rapid and complete recovery, but also pass our thanks to the committee who enabled the event to be another roaring success.

Thank you all, and a special thank you to Alan for his guidance through the mysteries of darts, a sport clearly new to many, but one that they will not now forget.

Write up and photos courtesy of members.