30/09/2026
Dear Club Members and Friends,
It is with a mixture of immense pride and sadness that I write this letter to announce that after 6 incredible years, my time as Venue Manager at The Packhorse Bowling & Social Club is coming to an end.
When I first took on this role 6 years ago, the club was facing the very real threat of extinction. Together, through hard work, passion, and a shared vision, we managed to turn things around and breathe new life into this historic venue, saving it for generations to come.
Looking back, I am immensely proud of everything we have achieved as a community. Transforming The Packhorse into a thriving, family-friendly community club has been one of the greatest privileges of my life.
Together, we have celebrated countless milestones, including the launch and resounding success of Packfest, which has become a staple in our community calendar. Our commitment to excellence also saw us recognized nationally, proudly taking home the prestigious title of multi-award winners at The Club Awards on three separate occasions.
To ensure the club could offer the best possible experience, we undertook significant improvements over the years. From the creation of our welcoming b**r garden to the modernization of the main bar, the cozy snug room, and the versatile function room, every upgrade was made with our members and visitors in mind.
None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of so many people:
* The Committee Members: I want to extend my deepest thanks to all the committee members from day one who had faith in me, trusted my vision, and gave me the opportunity to take the club forward.
* My Amazing Staff: To the entire team, thank you for working tirelessly day in and day out to maintain a fantastic atmosphere and extend a warm, genuine welcome to everyone who walked through our doors.
* Vickie, My Bar Supervisor: Special thanks go to Vickie, who has gone above and beyond in her role. The support she has given me in every single aspect of running the club has been nothing short of amazing, and I simply cannot thank her enough.
* My Family: I want to express my deepest gratitude to my wonderful wife, Bethan, and my incredible kids, Archie and Max. Their endless patience, love, and understanding through the long hours, late nights, and the sheer dedication required to run this club have been my anchor. I am so excited to spend more quality time with them as we embark on our next chapter.
* Our Customers: Finally, to everyone who has ever visited, supported, and patronized The Packhorse over the past 6 years—thank you. You are the heart and soul of this club, and it is your friendship, laughter, and loyalty that made coming to work every day an absolute joy.
The Packhorse Bowling & Social Club will always hold a very special place in my heart. I wish the club, its members, and its future leadership all the very best, continued success, and happiness for the years ahead.
With warmest regards and fondest memories,
Dean Holmes
Venue Manager
The Packhorse Bowling & Social Club
