Friday 26 September 2008

Harry's Lunch a Great Success


To view pictures of the event click here - Harry's Lunch Pictures

Harry Mills was a dedicated sportsman and as pictured Wendi Parcell (centre) and Gill May (left) with Judi Mills (right) have remembered him by raising funds at Harry's Lunch for The Youth Sport Trust which supports the development of all young people through sport. Harry's Lunch was held at St. Katherine's, Parmoor, Frieth on 23rd September 2008.

Harry’s Lunch was a great success and everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Guests (120) arrived for a Pimms & canapes reception in the entrance hall, entertained by Jenny Hayes on piano. Guests then moved through to the anteroom where there was a display of Harry's medals & trophies & photos. There was also a display of some of the sporting events/trophies & awards that have happened over the last few months since his death. e.g. the Outstanding Sportsman (from Marlow Town Council), The 'Harry Mills' scull (Marlow rowing club), Marlow Merlins & RUFC Cups & Awards and The Youth Sport Trust 'Harry Mills Team Maker Award'.

Among the guests was Alan Black of the RFU and ex Wasps player - Blackie and the RFU have been very supportive, donating a Box at Twickenham and holding fund raising events - the Talking Rugby Dinners at Bisham Abbey (next one on the 28th November 2008).

Following a welcome speech by Wendi Parcell, a delicious lunch was served by St Katharine's staff. Judi then gave a speech & explained about Harry's Garden - Katie Watkins & Sam Tippett distributed the sunflower seeds (donated by Unwins & Suttons) and 'Harry Mills Mixture' sweet peas (created & donated by Roger Parsons Nurseries) or 'Our Harry' sweet peas (Eagle Nurseries).

The toast was – “to Harry”, a very special boy, and to all our very special friends' . Guin Batten (Youth Sport Trust) explained the work done by the YST including special, innovative projects with gifted & talented youngsters (mainly 14 - 18yr olds) at the start of their sporting careers. She said that they worked with youngsters on their whole motivation - mental preparation, goal setting, practical issues (e.g. how to train whilst still 'being a teenager') as well as skills & fitness training. She updated us on Mikey Wilson, winner of the Harry Mills Team Maker Award, - he recently represented England in Canada in the u14 canoe slalom team.

Gill May then asked Vince Mackenzie (ex head of Spinfield School) to draw the raffle - over 25 local businesses had very generously donated prizes ranging from gym membership at Bisham Abbey, Gift Basket from La Cotonniere, Cufflinks from Gatsby, tennis coaching from Justin Cook, Beauty vouchers from Sunrise salon, Flowers from Pollenation and Richard's giant jars of exclusive 'Windy Mills Pickled Onions & Pickled Beetroot'.

Other help came from Rebellion Brewery (donated beer), Waitrose (wine) and the Mums of Leighton Park School who donated the Pimms & wine served during the meal.

The Lunch raised £2500.

Many thanks to all our guests for your wonderful support.

Below - Wendi remembers Harry..



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