Hog Roast & Race Night 2022

This year see the return of the popular Hog Roast and Race Night when a sell-out crowd packed Doddington Village Hall on Saturday 25th June. The evening, hosted by Doddington Short Mat Bowls Club, became an annual event following the success of the inaugural evening celebrating the clubs 30th Anniversary several years ago. The pandemic had postponed this event for two years however it bounced back in style being as popular as ever attracting people from the village and local community.

The chosen charity was once again MAGPAS – the emergency medical charity who provide lifesaving care by land and air. Club Chairman, Rob Elmore, welcomed everyone following a powerful MAGPAS video that was played introducing the charity and giving viewers an insight into the amazing work they do. An interval was held halfway through the race programme and all ticket holders enjoyed a Hog Roast provided by Andy Rose Hog Roast, BBQ’s and Carveries followed by a fun game of Stand-Up Bingo.

Dave Lines of ‘Soar Valley Race Nights’ was Race Night MC who provided a professional service once again. A modern computerised tote system was used, and the setup allowed the event organisers to show their appreciation to the race sponsors referencing them on the screen throughout the night. Eight races plus a ninth auction race were scheduled. Excitement from the crowd cheering on their chosen horse created a fantastic atmosphere throughout the night.

Event sponsors were thanked, and appreciation was shown on the night for their support.

Feedback and comments on social media have been pleasing to hear with two ticker holders saying…

It truly was a fantastic night, our first one and we loved it! Also, a huge thanks to Pat and Alan from our table, we met as strangers but left as new friends.

Another said…

Was a great night. Superb Hog Roast, fun races, and lovely community atmosphere and all for a well-deserved cause. Big thanks to everyone involved in organising such a great event.

Rob Elmore said “the last two years have been hard for many people and to see everyone come together like they did was nice to see. It was a risk organising this event not knowing if it would be supported to the extent it was prior to the pandemic and therefore could it warrant its place as an annual event. We were therefore pleased it was a sell-out crowd. My thanks on behalf of the club committee, go to every business who sponsored, all club members, to all those people who donated funds including ticket holders who returned their evenings winnings back to the charity, supporters from the local community who all did their bit to make this event possible and raise such an amazing amount of money for MAGPAS Air Ambulance”

The total amount raised was £1400 which will be presented to the charity over the coming weeks