On a cold wet and windy evening, it was lovely to get into the warmth of the entrance hall of Hylands with the delightful Christmas tree (donated by the Friends) in the corner. We were then all treated to a glass of hot mulled wine, served by Glenda and Paul, which was extremely cheering.
Babs and Rosemary were persuading us to buy raffle tickets for the excellent selection of prizes (the raffle made £231), while in the alcove under the staircase, Bruce Montgomery was entertaining us on the guitar and Brian Hinds had his usual excellent selection of poinsettias for sale.
At 7.45 pm we were called into supper in the banqueting room. The layout of the tables for the 107 guests was something to behold and a great credit to the caterers. After grace by Canon John Howden, everyone tucked into a hot Christmas meal. Everyone seemed so relaxed and there was a very friendly atmosphere. The raffle was drawn at the end of the meal. Ceri and the Hylands staff served the meal like professional waiters and we are very grateful to them.
After the meal, we all transferred to the drawing room for some carol singing led by John Howden, with Ron Woods at the piano. Two very appropriate Christmas readings were given by Elizabeth Myddleton Evans. After "We wish you a merry Christmas" was sung heartily, the evening was brought to a close by our Chairman. The festive atmosphere ended what many thought was our best party ever and a credit to our Executive Committee.
Ron Woods
Secretary