Welcome to the official opening of our newly created patio. I am sure most of you will have witnessed its rather slow development over the past few weeks and perhaps wondered if we would ever make it to completion. Let me say that speed was not of the essence and completion by Easter was always the key target. We very nearly made it. A good job is the main criteria and I wish to thank Andy Bullock for providing a quality job in line with our expectations.

Before asking Pam to declare the Patio open it would be remiss if I did not thank a few people. At the head of that list is Martin Holland. Martin drew up the original plans and processed them through the approval process. We are a Grade 1 listed building and there were all sorts or heritage issues that had to be accommodated. Martin then essentially project managed the development before spending considerable time together with the Wednesday and Friday volunteer group in completing the fringe landscaping. We are very grateful to our team of volunteers

Our thanks also to Steve Collins for providing a substantial amount of materials that enabled budgetary constraints to be accommodated.

I must also thank the House Chairman, Trevor Norman for sorting the lighting and evaluating and purchasing the furniture including the bench in memory of Paul which was funded by Pam.

Talking of money, this development would not have been possible without our main benefactors. David Roberts bequest to the Senior Section set the whole concept in motion. The Senior Section in turn backed the scheme and the David Roberts legacy has provided the rump of the funding. The Centenary Captains charity through the generosity of Gill Miller/Peter Crumpton provided the main fund for the furnishings. Both these contributions will be marked by a plaque in the next week or so. The balance of cash is from club funds.

When I had the privilege of being Club captain in 2005, Paul Harper was house chairman. You may recall it was at the time when we refurbishing the house with new decoration and furniture. There was much controversy about colour schemes, chair coverings, chairs themselves etc. etc. Paul just gently absorbed it all and then went quietly about his tasks and together with his brother Andy were a great team. Absolutely 100% reliable- things just got done. It is with great sadness that Paul passed away last year.

So for me and a view shared by the executive board what better person than Pauls widow to open this newest development of club. Pam can I ask you to do the honour.