High energy and community spirit were the order of the day at the British Club’s ‘super anniversary party’ yesterday.
The expat club, one of Bahrain’s oldest, located in Umm Al Hassam, hosted members and loyal patrons to mark its 90-year milestone.
The celebrations featured food, drink and entertainment.
The club’s rock band and junior ensemble put up riveting live musical performances, a British-themed photo booth and fun props kept guests amused and there were children’s indoor and outdoor play areas and a mini bazaar selling homemade and traditional ware.
British Ambassador Alastair Long, who attended the celebrations with his family, also judged the Great British Bake Off – one of the day’s star events – along with club chairman Mark Herbert and club manager Daniel McRae.
The competition saw talented cooks present their scrumptious creations, such as the Diamond Drizzle Cake, Arabian Nights Shortbread, Big Belly’s Mushroom and more – which were all put to the ‘taste’.
Bahraini talent Rasha Ebrahim won in the savoury category and Filipino expatriate Les Garduque-Parr in the sweet.
“My husband and I have started sharing our baked creations only a month ago and so, we’re elated to have won this bake off – who would have thought,” media professional Ms Garduque-Parr, 40, told the GDN.
Irish expatriate and long-standing member of almost 30 years, Fiona Gaffney, aged 59, praised the club for its cosmopolitan vibe and safe atmosphere.
“I can come here and meet people of all nationalities,” said the retired quality control executive from Adliya, who lives with her Bahraini husband and two children.
“It’s a family-friendly place, the location is ideal and it feels safe when we ladies come here for our activities and poolside fun. The staff here are wonderful too,” she added.
Bangladeshi expatriate Zakhir, 37, who has been working at the club for the last seven years noted, “When you enter the club, it’s a different atmosphere; that’s why I’ve been here for so long.”
Marassi residents Britons Sophie and Barney O’Keeffe said that their two children have a lot of fun every time they visit the club, and that they find the community spirit of the place endearing.
Yesterday’s event was preceded by a black-tie dinner at the club, with Mr Long, and honorary and long-standing members, in attendance.
melissa@gdnmedia.bh
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