Tony Lopategui's year as Club Captain came to a wonderful finale with the James Bond themed Swansong on Saturday 15th September - more than 120 people attended the evening and were treated to a great meal and super entertainment from The Manhattans.
With huge thanks for the generosity from Members throughout the year, Tony was delighted to present a cheque for £20,000 to the Freddie Farmer Foundation, plus £3,300 to his other chosen charity to assist with emotional and practical support for children with Autism.
An Ode to the Captain, by Catherine Murray
Tony’s been a great Captain, I’m sure you’ll all agree
But we don’t know how to say his name, is it Lopategoo or Lopategee ?
Whichever - it doesn’t matter, he’s a gentleman through and through
We’ve had the most memorable year, and he’ll be forever in our “Who’s Who?”
There is a reason why I’m fond
Of Tony when he plays James Bond
I can’t resist the lure of hunks
In teeny, tiny swimming trunks
You’ve been an amazing Host, Captaincy you soon mastered
We’ve shared many bottles of your wine, and some of us got plastered
Champagnes and Martinis, led to speech becoming slurred
In the theme of this evening, they are Shaken, Not Stirred
Hey, Big Spender, with a special Licence to Thrill
You’ve done a wonderful, fabulous job and have left big shoes to fill
Behind every great man is a lady
And we all know her name
She is For Your Eyes Only
Your delectable wife, Elaine
You’ve been a top-notch Captain, full of humour and fun
You introduced the Joker, And you’re the Man With The Golden Pun !
You’ve given your all – in untold measure
And memories of your year we will always treasure
But now your reign is at an end, it’s Goodbye we have to say
And if you’ve gained a few little pounds
You Can Die(t) Another Day !
Have a fabulous night – Let’s all give our Captain a cheer
Thank you, Thank You, Tony
It’s been an unforgettable year !