The Oakers Luncheon

2nd July 2018

The Oakers ‘Luncheon Society’ goes from strength to strength. We regularly get at least a dozen up to a score for our ‘first Tuesday in the month’ lunches.

The Oakers now have a ‘membership’ of 112, which is the highest it has ever been. Sadly, this year, we have lost two stalwarts namely Peter Huston (53-58) and Roy Furness (56-61). Our condolences go out to the members of their families. However, just when you think the number is coming down and there haven’t been any newcomers (acorns) for a while, just like buses, three turned up at the November lunch. Many thanks to the regulars who attend through fair weather or foul. We reminisce, we joke, avoid controversy and basically have a damn good time.

The Rugby Dinner on the 22nd November had about 30 Oakers in attendance. The Christmas lunch, at The Boot on 10th December, was just shy of 50. The attendees at the lunch include the President of the Rugby Union, the Chairman of the OMs Club, the Vice President of the Club, the Chairman of the Rugby Club and a mélange of former Presidents and the ever increasing band of ageing juveniles.

THE RIME OF THE ANCIENT OAKER

It is an ancient Oaker, Who stoppeth at The Boot. Thy long grey beard and glittering eye, And a pocketful of loot.

The Boot’s doors are opened wide, And I’m the first one in; The guests are met, the feast is set: May’st hear the merry din.

Yea, every month the Oakers meet, ‘School lunches’ is our grub, We hobble in and take a seat, What fun we have int’ pub.

So, The Boot was cheered, the tables cleared, Merrily we wend our way, Homewards to our better halves, We’ve had a lovely day.

Gerry Westoby (Ridgeway 56-61)

With apologies to S.T. Coleridge (1772-1834)