Friday 29 May saw the majority of the team in the elegant surroundings of Villa McMullan at the 4th in a series of social events for the POPPS table tennis team since its formation in the autumn of 2008. Armed with various contributions of food and drink, the members arrived in a variety of garb to celebrate the end of the winter season and the start of the summer league. Alan’s golf-inspired sweater, sponsored by PING immediately drew the response of PONG from the smarter members there. You can’t beat a bit of original wit now and then, but preferably not all night. Gale brought a taste of the Indian sub-continent, while Derek came with an elegant and historical Oxfam creation. The rest the womenfolk oozed style, while the remainder of the men blended into the background with their understated sartorial flair.

The drinks were taken in the majestic garden in this exclusive area of Halifax and guests were able to relax in the warmth of a May evening. The massive food spread miraculously appeared, plates were filled to the brim and conversation ceased as the assembled throng sank their teeth into food which would not have disgraced a top restaurant.

Then the conversation resumed, mixing table tennis exploits and hard luck stories with life stories and family exploits. Then, as the evening slipped by and the darkness fell, the guests disappeared into the night, grateful for the hospitality of Peter & Pam and realising the need to get plenty of table tennis in during the following week to work off any excesses. Once again POPPS showed itself to be champions at socialising, whilst not yet reaching those heights on the green table.

We know that the summer league will be tough, but we approach it with confidence, knowing that some defeats will not slow down our learning curve.