The idea was Bernie Branfield’s: a parting gift for Ewen comprising a book of reminiscences, comments, stories and photos from the Jesters who had participated in events over the last fifteen years. The word went out and the articles came flooding in. The final professionally bound publication contained 117 contributions from 69 Jester Challenge participants – a magnificent response that amply demonstrated the respect and affection in which Ewen is held.
A plot was hatched to present the book to Ewen, who still knew nothing about it, prior to the Skippers’ Dinner for the Jester Azores Challenge 2021. Ewen’s son, Hamish, helped Ewen bring Black Velvet to Mayflower marina, and kept him on board under the pretext of an imminent drinks’ party. Ewen’s wife Patricia arrived. Ewen still suspected nothing.
At the appointed hour a crowd suddenly materialised out of the rain – Jesters old and new, some from near, some from afar. Champagne and Guinness were on hand; black velvets were poured. Speeches (curtailed by the damp) were made, telegrams read and a completely unsuspecting Ewen was presented with his book. Job done!
Ewen’s reaction? ‘I’m not often overwhelmed, but the comments in the amazing book, the signals received and the observations in Black Velvet’s visitors book are more than touching and hardly deserved at the level they have been pitched.’
I think all of us would agree that everything is extremely well deserved…
Jester Challenge 