Christmas Party 2025

Published 16:31 on 3 Feb 2026

Our annual festive party took place at The Hornet in their lovely Clubroom with its wood panelling, sailing photographs and club burgees plus, at this time of year, Christmas trees and decorations of course. It looked splendid.

Ann and I arrived early and were able to help get the table layout into the format that works well for us and help to set out the places with Christmas party 'table favour' boxes (poppers, screaming balloons and party hooters) to accompany the Christmas crackers of course. Places were laid according to the seating plan with name cards and menu choices to help the evening go smoothly.

As people started to arrive, old friends greeted each other, new friends were introduced and welcome drinks were quaffed. Photographs were taken, big smiles all round with the ladies looking stunning in the best party dresses and the gentlemen looking smart in their finest back-tie suits. Our entertainment lady, the very talented and lovely Katy Kelly, had set up her microphone and speakers in the corner and was soon playing gentle party music as we took our seats and the meals were served. The Hornet staff did a splendid job; they always look after us very well and our lovely food was consumed whilst we chatted at our tables.

Party poppers were popped, hooters hooted, balloons launched, crackers pulled and paper hats worn, corny jokes were told and drinks were downed; all great Christmas fun. During dinner Katy accompanied herself on her Celtic lap harp, and the mood she created was just perfect for Christmas time.

Once the meals were finished a few of the tables were pushed back to make the dancing area bigger and soon couples were enjoying themselves to the lovely songs Katy was singing and playing. Those who stayed at their tables enjoyed chatting and recalling tall stories about their brave sailing events of the year.

The dancing and chatting continued long into the night, all very enjoyable, until it was time to say goodbye and make our way back to our homes or our boats.

Once again, a thoroughly enjoyable Christmas party with over 50 of us having a great time. Special thanks as always to the marvellous Katy Kelly whose singing was as beautiful as ever. We all had a great time and it certainly got us all into the Christmas spirit.

Jem Nicholls

Lots more photos from the evening are available in the gallery

Last updated 18:10 on 3 February 2026