The fun-tastic MSA-UK Bristol get together have ended after a festive and enjoyable time. The Bristol gathering was held at 10 Westbourne Road, Bristol (famously known as Habaru Ge, Bristol) on Sunday 22nd January 2006. A total of 24 members took part in the events and activities of the gathering.

The events of the day started with a big match at 11:00Hrs in Chealsy Park, Bristol. The climatic conditions were good, with sunshine and temperature reaching 4 degree Celsius which was morale boosting for the players from both sides. The football match was played between Bristol Angels vs Bristol Devils. The Bristol Devils won the match by 9 – 8 goals. The Devil of the Match title was awarded to Nashy and Hinna, the goalkeepers of Bristol Devils Team. This was the first time in MSA-UK’s history where 3 goalkeepers were defending the goals of both the teams. After the big match, members took part in an aerobiz session lead by Hinna (a qualified aerobics instructor) followed by a special march past led by Manik. The aerobiz session reminded members the importance of keeping healthy and fit during the time they spend in UK and to show how easy this could be achieved. According to Manik, the march past was arranged as a symbol of unity and friendship.

The members then joined “Zuhur Prayers” at Bristol Central Mosque where the Imam led a special prayer of supplication to our friend Ali Niyaz (Ayya), who passed away the same morning in the Maldives. Ayya was a graduate from University College London and served MSA-UK at various levels including the post of Chairperson in 1997. May Allah Almighty grant the eternal blessing of Heaven to the departed soul of our friend – Aameen.

After the prayers, members went ahead with the cooking session. The team leaders of the cooking session were Ubad and Manik. All the members took part in the cooking and produced a variety of mouth-watering dishes. The items in the menu include: Rice, Chicken Jalfrezi, Lamb Rogan Josh, Chicken Tandoori, Green Salad, Biscuit Pudding and Chocolate Fudge. Maink also showed his Bombay tea-making skills during the session. Fortunately, Manik was unable to meet the huge demand to his Bombay tea and had to halt his production to save some money to the association. While the cooking session was underway, children also had their chance to show their creativity by making doggy jam biscuits. Members got hands on experience with cooking under expert guidance from the team leaders. One member said, “I enjoyed the Bristol gathering very much and the cooking session was great. I can now make a curry!”

After enjoying a scrumptious meal, a game of “Ishaarai” was played among Bristol Devils vs Angels. The Angels beat the Devils after a tight fight by 25-24. Hoodh, Looth and Aal of Bristol Angels were awarded the Angel of Ishaarai title. The judges had no other option but to award them the title because of their talents and skills.

Habaru Issey, the organiser of the event said that the gathering was held in a friendly environment and was full of fun. "It was nice to see all the members united and having a good time in Bristol. The atmosphere was excellent and I hope members enjoyed the gathering" concluded Habaru Issey. The gathering ended after a hectic day of events and members departed to their home to start a busy week of studies.

MSA(UK) Central Committee extends their warmest gratitude and thanks to all the members who attended the Bristol get together and also for the help and support to make this event a success.