Speaking contest...

THE national president of the Association of Speakers Clubs, Eric Baker from Quorn held a Presidents’ Dinner and speaking competition at a Kegworth Hotel.

Seven teams from around the country entered to speak on a three word theme” Three Piece Suite”.

Each team devised a different story to illustrate this.

There was a suite of luggage, things that come in threes, hotel suites, musical suites, three popular colours of flags and our own Loughborough team who chose the three piece suite of crown jewels. The Crown, the Orb and the Sceptre.

James Davies chaired the team asking the question “Has anyone met the Queen” and “Who would like to meet the Queen?” Always a good start to get a response from the audience. He even cheekily said he had asked to borrow them to illustrate the talk! Not to be outdone though, the team had fashioned a very plausible set of Crown Jewels of their own.

James introduced Arthur Murray, Mark Harrison and Martin Cox who each spoke eloquently on each item.

This was a competition at National level and they were up against some very talented speakers and it was a team from Kent who won on this occasion.

For newer members it was a chance to speak to a much larger audience but any nerves they felt were well hidden. We shall certainly look forward to a repeat performance at a club meeting when all who were unable to attend the contest will enjoy the hard work our Loughborough team put in.

The after dinner speakers were former national contest winners and did not disappoint with their amusing speeches.

Eric was pleased to see six former national presidents at his dinner along with many others from the various clubs around the country.

There was a splendid raffle with some very generous prizes from our sponsors which made the whole event self funding. It was heartwarming to see so many people attend and they were warmly thanked for their generosity and support.

We try to encourage members to attend these larger events at Area, District and National level as it gives a new dimension to speaking in public.

You can practice these skills and have an entertaining evening at John Storer House on the second and fourth evening of the month at 7.15pm for a 7.30pm start.

For more information see our website at www. loughboroughspeakers.org.uk Next meeting is on Tuesday November 14.