After numerous phone calls, text messages and e-mails,

The gang congregated this year in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales.

In a town called Masham, former home of writer, Bill Bryson,

Gina arrived after going 10 rounds with Mike Tyson.

“Why Masham? we asked as if in a single voice,

Well, obviously it was Hobson’s choice.

 

The Friday golfers gathered at Masham Golf Course,

After 2 lost balls off the first tee things got gradually worse.

There were slices and hooks and air shots a plenty,

For a total prize money of £3.20.

On one green, Roy Butler, that crafty old fogey,

Had a 2 footer for a par but ended up with a double bogey.

 

On Friday evening Gill Briggs incurred Theakson’s fury,

By arranging a tour of the rival Black Sheep brewery.

Theakson’s wanted a £150 non-refundable deposit,

That was so outrageous that it made me want to spit.

At £5 per head the Black Sheep tour was a much better deal,

And rounded off nicely with an excellent meal.

 

The walkers gathered on Saturday morning outside The White Bear,

The prospects were good as the weather was set fair.

In the group photograph we all shouted “Cheese”,

It was a most handsome sight apart from Norman’s bare knees.

And Dave Hobson’s bow legs that were positioned quite central,

And through which could be seen the spire of Ripon cathedral.

 

We set out on the walk but soon suffered a mishap,

When we encountered a fence that Dave claimed was not on the map.

After further consultation to establish our position,

He shouted “About turn” to hoots of derision.

The correct path was found and we headed for the pub,

Which served excellent beer and very good grub.

 

At the lunchtime stop Norman met his new best mate,

His name was Joey and he was 4 foot eight.

When all glasses were drained and baguettes consumed,

We all leapt to our feet and the walking resumed.

Back at Leyburn the women shopped until they were broke,

Whilst the men watched the Cup Final - Man City v Stoke.

 

At the evening dinner Roy’s speech went down a storm,

With frequent interruptions from Jim and Norm.

Dave was congratulated on his excellent organization,

Who’ll do next year? “Me” shouted Norman without a moment’s hesitation.

We then crawled off to our beds to get some sleep,

Because some of us had consumed far too much Black Sheep.