Those of you who follow the Whitby Morrison Facebook page will have seen just where Antonio, Ian and the Mondial Lusso demonstrator got to n their trip around Ireland. It was a fantastic occasion where once again Whitby Morrison were made incredibly welcome and the van went down very well too!
The trip started just outside Dublin where they were greeted by Ger Smith and his wife Caroline who took a real liking to the Rapida II. From there they travelled north to meet Paul and Damian McDonald – the latter whom needed a crate just to get close to Ian’s 7ft frame!
The journey around the north continued with some excellent hospitality from Jim Robinson as well as the Morelli family. Sadly Robert Jr was away with his wife but the family made an extra special effort to welcome Antonio and Ian and a good time was had by all.
Whilst in the north, Antonio and Ian were able to see the Carton family; Fergal, Shane and Raymond. Shane is new to the business and is very keen to continue what his father started.
Stephen Baxter then welcomed them both to his yard, home of two of the finest Amalfis we have built, before moving on to see Robert Neill and his giant animal themed Mondial Lusso MWB.
Before long they were off to see James Neill and his lovely wife in Ballymena where they put on a great spread for two very hungry Whitby Morrison team members! They then travelled on to see Barry Rodgers who recently took delivery of a lovely Transit.
Danny O’kane took the time to welcome Antonio and Ian and talk about working full time with his son – its always nice to see a new generation come into ice cream.
The time in the north came to an end and they then headed south to meet with Tony, Gary and Alan Murphy along with their friend Cushen. Antonio added that it was a real honour to meet Tony for the first time. There was also a nice surprise visit from Mr Akhtar in Leeds – he’d been following the journey on Facebook.
It was then onwards to see Patrick O’Dwyer and his wife who fed Antonio plenty of Bacon and Sausage! And the eating didn’t stop when before long they met up with Alfie Williams who served them one of his delicious milkshakes.
Whilst travelling Antonio and Ian also took the opportunity to meet with Francis Southern who offered some delicious ice cream before heading to see Frank and Sandra Williams, with their freshly made scones.
Having had a length break from Whitby Morrison Vans, Pat Williams really liked the Mondial Lusso and has hopefully developed a taste for selling ice cream once again!
As they headed back towards home they also took the opportunity to see the O’Brien family who were off to see Liverpool in the Europa League final. Whilst in the area they were able to catch up with Greg Byrne too and his giant dogs!
John Dunbar took time out to have a look at the Mondial Lusso and Eamon Howe said that he’s enjoying his new van so much, he’s putting off retirement!
The trip was concluded with a real family feeling; Noel Tracey and his wife offered their usual hospitable welcome and took great pride in introducing the newest member of the family to Antonio and Ian.
It was an exceptional trip – probably one of the best. There’s never enough time to see everyone but we were overwhelmed by just how many people went out of their way to see the van and look after Antonio and Ian. They certainly ate well too!
Thank you to everyone, it is sincerely appreciated. All the very best for the season ahead.