ALL CHANGE AT LEEDS
Carson and Copeland to step down after doing excellent jobs
THE Northern Boxing Federation Gala weekend in Blackpool is traditionally one of the year’s highlights, and I was delighted to hear from Leeds EBA secretary Paul Abraham that – as normal – this year’s went very well.
“Everybody enjoyed it,” Paul said. “Leeds EBA had 22 members present at the event.”
At the AGM, Paul handed over the Presidential chain of office to another Leeds member, Vince Campbell. There were two pieces of sad news – both Chairman Terry Carson and Secretary/ Treasurer Eddie Copeland announced they were standing down; the former because of ill-health, the latter because of increasing work commitments. Both have done a tremendous amount for the NBF over the years, and I’m sure everyone will join me in wishing Terry Carson the very best in his current battle. Eddie Copeland (whom I remember as a fine pro lightweight) has done a wonderful job over the years, including keeping me updated with news. It can’t have been an easy decision.
I do hope members will come forward to take over the roles. As I’ve said before, it’s such a temptation to say “Good old So-and-so – he takes on such a lot, and he’s happy to do it.”
The trouble is, when good old So-andso can no longer do it all, what happens then? The NBF has been going for years, and the Gala Weekend is always a big success. If you’re a member, and feel there’s something you could do (for instance, the roles of Secretary and Treasurer could be split), do let your committee know.
Going back to the actual weekend, I’d be delighted to hear from anyone else who was there, whether host or visitor. And I’m very pleased such a large contingent from Leeds was able to go. The pandemic is far from over, but things have improved – EBAS can now attend functions again and support one another. That’s so vital.
On that subject, I was glad to read in Leicester EBA’S latest newsletter that Leicester have booked a 29-seater coach for Home Counties EBA’S Summer BBQ this Sunday (July 24). This takes place at HCEBA’S HQ, Bricket Wood Sports and Social Club, St Albans, and, again, is always a good day – Leicester’s newsletter records that they have always received a warm welcome there. I hope it’s another success.
Leicester celebrated their 50th anniversary with a get-together at the
Old Aylestone Social Club on June 17.
I quote: “It was especially pleasing that Dave Roberts, along with his wife, Josie, and son, Nigel, came from Melton to join us.
“Dave is one of four remaining founder members – Mick Batten, Tony Cavner and Mick Greaves are the others – and all received tankards to mark their long membership. Gifts of appreciation were also presented to our treasurer, Fred Roberts, and his wife, Pat, for organising the venue and food for our last three celebrations marking 40, 45 and 50 years. Long may we continue!”
Everyone will agree with that sentiment – not just for Leicester, but every other EBA.
Mick Greaves, of course, is Leicester’s long-serving President and Chairman – and I was very sorry to read of the sudden death of his wife, Eileen.
The newsletter records: “For many years Eileen was an invaluable supporter of our association, working tirelessly in the background to help provide and prepare food for our annual Gettogethers and Christmas dances as well as going on our outings.”
Mick himself currently isn’t in the best of health, and the family have requested that he not be contacted at this distressing time. But I know I speak on behalf of all my readers in sending condolences to Mick, his son Jim, and daughters Melanie and Elaine.
Leicester have reverted to holding their monthly meetings on the first Tuesday of each month (still at the Jungle Club). Their next meeting will be on August 2, when annual subscriptions (still only £10) will become due.