“TOGETHER” for the good of the sport in Great Britain
Earlier in the year the secretary with his father and brother travelled down from Sunderland to the channel tunnel to meet with Clive Bennett, secretary of the B.I.C.C. After meeting for the first time, all parties exchanged greetings and then off through the tunnel. The weather was terrible and thoughts went back to the times when only a ferry crossing was available and in such bad weather everyone would be seasick! The journey was quick and we arrived at the grand hotel Lodewijk van Male on the outskirts of Brugge, despite the inclement weather. The hotel was luxurious with a small lake in its grounds. After getting settled in, they were straight down for dinner where they had a first class meal that was described as delicious, although the main meat course was rare and unlike the way it is cooked in the UK!
Later the party all met with Frans and Frida Van Wildemeersch – Vynke who had eaten Yorkshire pudding (North East Style.) for the first time on their last visit to England! a delicacy fast becoming world-renowned.
Previously, an official of the Euro Diamond Pigeon Club, Mr Alexander Ampe, who is a giant of a man and a gentleman, asked if Her Majesty the Queen would like to join. Carlo Napolitano, Her Majesty the Queens’ loft manager was informed regarding the Euro Diamond Pigeon Club. Waiting in anticipation, were the officials of the Euro Diamond Pigeon Club who hoped to gain such a distinguished and honorary member. Frans Van Wildemeersch was informed that Her Majesty the Queen would be joining the club via loft manager Carlo Napolitano. The news was received very well and it was a pity that they didn’t have a photo of all their faces when told the news! Some things will never be forgotten because everyone concerned were more that pleased and at this point a toast was given to the
Queen.
The Presentation of the Euro Diamond Pigeon Club started at 12.00noon with aperitifs and titbits, which made your mouth water. The presentations in Belgium are much different to those in Great Britain and are simply superb and I can vouch for that having eaten in Belgium on many occasions.
The meeting went well with Yvan Eeckhout, who was sitting at the same table as the UK officials along with Mr. W. G. (Bill) Harris, and his delightful wife Julie who both had a great time. Details were finalised and entry forms for the Entente Belge Dax International race were received. Frans Van Wildemeersch, President of the Euro Diamond Club ran the proceedings and informed all in attendance, approx. 200, that Her Majesty the Queen had joined the club. It was noticeable that gasps were heard throughout the hall and a standing ovation occurred with the British National anthem being played. The party also tell me that Alexander Ampe is an asset, a brilliant worker for the Euro Diamond Club. His drive, foresight and workload shine through and is much appreciated by all concerned.
Prior to the presentation the party went to visit Dr. Carlo and Nicholas Gyselbrecht whose set up is great and they all handled his Barcelona International winner! On a lighter side and on the way back they had hoped to visit Janssen Bros of Arendonk but they missed a turning or two and got lost. We could only find a place called Donk where we met the Johnson Bros! Never mind, maybe next time! Clive, Sid and his family have never laughed so much.
Both Secretaries had a great time and being united, we can all hope that we can emulate last year’s great achievements of Brian Sheppard and Crowley & Green with their 1st and 2nd International positions for GREAT BRITAIN. Similar to the Football World Cup of 1966, it will never be forgotten!
Any members wishing to join the Euro Diamond Pigeon Club contact Clive Bennett Secretary of the BICC, the fee is 10 euros per year.
