The Inaugural Melton Mowbray Charter
Area 14 was in celebration recently as after over 15 years of closure Melton Mowbray & District No: 479 the home of the Pork Pie had its inaugural Charter Dinner on 26 March 2008. For the first time in many years, a new Table was being established in Area 14.
The members of Melton Mowbray had really got their act together, with over 300 in attendance to witness the re-chartering and induction of the 14 new Tablers by National Vice President Peter Manley. The evening took the style of a "Traditional Charter Night" with a less formal and relaxed atmosphere. The guests were entertained by the local brass band, the formalities were kept short and sweet to allow the real purpose of the night - to celebrate!
The club has been 12 months in the re-making, and the members over this time have enjoyed a full and varied programme of events, and visits to other Tables to find out what others do. All meetings have been well attended and there is no doubt that Round Table is in very strong, safe and capable hands. Melton Mowbray really delivered the goods and showed true determination to deliver a spectacular and thoroughly enjoyable event.
Special guests on the night were a number of players from Leicester Tigers Rugby Team. The Tigers have been at the top of their game for many years, and are currently vying to retain the two trophies they proudly brought with them on the night: English Guiness Premiership Trophy and the Heinekin European Cup.
In 2005 a young aspiring star of Leicester and England Rugby sustained a tragic neck injury during an England Under 21 training camp, and a trust fund as immediately set up in his name - The Matt Hampson Trust. Melton Round Table were honoured and proud to have Matt attend their Charter Night, and showed their appreciation by donating all proceeds from their raffle and auction of rugby memorabilia to the trust, in excess of £8,500.00.
Andy Goode, Leicester and England Fly Half, excelled in the role of Master of Ceremonies, keeping proceedings light-hearted and fun. Andy went on to chair a Questions and Answers session later in the evening providing guests many insights into life as a Premiership Rugby player, both on and off the pitch.
Did you know... the phrase "Paint the Town Red" dates back to 1837 and originated in Melton Mowbray? It would appear that the market town has maintained a sense of celebration for nearly two centuries and it is true today as it was back then, that if you want to paint the town red - Melton Mowbray is the place to do it!