DLI ASSOCIATION INDOOR GAMES 2016

The DLI Association Indoor Games took place at the Dubmire Royal British Legion Club at Fence Houses on Sunday 20 March 2016 under arrangements provided by the Houghton-le-Spring Branch of the Association, in the presence of the Association Chairman Maj Paul Wharton MM and the Vice Chairman Maj Chris Lawton MBE.

172 members of the Association and some guests attended the Championship in which 13 branches competed. The competition was organised by the Association Secretary, Lt Col John Heron TD who was ably assisted by Team Captains and Umpires from all branches, with particular assistance from Paulene Gill of the Consett & Stanley Branch and Eddie Surtees as Chief Umpire.

The usual three disciplines were played, darts, dominoes and whist, with the usual fierce competition, nevertheless conducted on a friendly and amicable basis to provide a good day out for all members.

In addition to the Games it was an opportunity to make a presentation to the recently retired DLI Association Chaplain, the Revd Brian Rawson. The presentation was made by Major Paul Wharton, Association Chairman, who reminded us all of the great enthusiasm in which the Rev Brian, had conducted his chaplaincy while with the Association, the ‘Faithful’ Inkerman Dinner Club and the 8^th/11^th Bns DLI Old Comrades Association. The Rev Brian replied at length saying how much he had enjoyed his time as Chaplain to the Association and wished everyone success in the future. He was presented with a 2^nd Edition WW1 ‘Tommy’ statue with appropriate inscription.

The Darts competition was won by the Gateshead & Newcastle Branch, the Dominoes by the Washington Branch and the Whist by the Stockton Branch. The Stockton Branch were the Overall Champions while the wooden spoon was shared by 3 teams. The trophies were presented by Maj Paul Wharton, Chairman who congratulated the teams on their sense of fair play and. He said what a good day it had been and congratulated the Houghton-le-Spring Branch on their organisation of the event. He thanked all the umpires who had helped the day to go so smoothly. The Raffle raised £290 towards the Association Funds. He thanked the catering staff for providing a meal of a very good standard, curry and ham salad being the menu alternatives, though sadly not everyone got the meal they ordered.

Our best wishes go to Joe Green who was unfortunately run over on a zebra crossing on the way home from the Games Joe was hit by a speeding car that was being chased by a Police Car. It was first thought that the injuries were more serious, but after further inspection and a CT Scan it may be just a fracture with some serious bruising. He was admitted to Ward 14 of the QE Hospital Gateshead where he is said to be comfortable.

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