This year, the CSC club dinner took place at The Chequers in Westoning, where 16 of us gathered for an evening filled with delicious food, drinks, medal presentations, and lots of laughs. After last year’s event at the Fancott, which was a bit of a disaster, we were hoping for a better experience — and The Chequers definitely delivered. The food was fantastic, and the service from the staff was exceptional.

The evening kicked off with Paul, our club treasurer, mistakenly filling a candle holder with water from his jug thinking it was a water glass, only realising his mix-up when the candle floated to the surface! Don’t worry Paul, I don’t think anyone noticed and I’m sure it will never be mentioned again……..

But the highlight of the night was when our club chairman, Phil Parry, presented medals (with an uncharacteristically short speech) to six outstanding individuals who completed the 2024 Mile a Day Challenge. This challenge required participants to run or walk at least one dedicated mile every single day for an entire year — no exceptions. It may sound simple, but those who’ve taken on the challenge know it’s anything but easy. Overcoming injuries, illness, and the motivation to get out there every day, no matter the circumstances, is a massive achievement. Great respect and congratulations to Mike, Amanda, Roy, Linda, Kevin, and Simon, as well as to those who couldn’t be with us for this well-earned recognition. Amazingly, all 6 medal winners are also taking part in MAD 2025, with Roy and Linda looking to complete their second consecutive year, and Mike, Amanda, Kevin, and Simon well on their way to completing MAD 1000 later this year (one thousand consecutive days of running or walking a mile).

After the medal ceremony, we enjoyed a delicious three-course meal. Every dish arrived piping hot and on time, with everything served to the correct person and with the right options — a rare feat when dining with a large group! The waiting staff were incredible — friendly, attentive, and efficient, making the evening even more enjoyable. They truly went above and beyond, and were a credit to the restaurant.

All in all, it was a fantastic evening, one we’ll all remember for the right reasons — great company, plenty of laughs, and celebrating great individual achievements.