Christmas Drinks 2015

This year Bill & Dilys Dover kindly allowed their lovely house in Gerrards Cross, to be taken over for our Christmas do.

The Committee had been worried – would enough people turn up? The committee were worried – there were too many people accepting invitations, how could they explain the mass invasion to the Dovers?

In the end it worked out fine about 60 arrived – not too many, not too few.

The caterers, ‘To Dine For’ turned up promptly and took over the kitchen, working expertly to create a variety of canapés.

Guests starting arriving at 12:30, several waiting in their cars until the due time, as they had arrived too early.

Bill & Ann

Bill & Ann

The Dover’s house is ideal for such a congregation, and most people descended on their large conservatory with the lovely views of the garden, to catch up and discuss important society gossip matters.

Pam Britton asks treasurer Graham about annual fees

Pam Britton asks treasurer Graham about annual fees

 

 

 

 

Our Treasurer, Graham Beavan, descended gleefully on newcomers to welcome them and demand a token fee for the proceedings.

 

 

 

 

The ladies looked stunning, and many a comment was made about Jayne Pegler’s lovely blouse.

Dinner is served

Dinner is served

The canapés came round and were appreciated by all. Just when you thought you were quite full, another really interesting plate came around, which would be a shame to miss.

 

 

 

Kay looks for the hosts

Kay looks for the hosts

Our Chairman, Kay Day, rounded up our hosts to thank them for their generous hospitality and present them with a token our appreciation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chairman Kay thanks hosts Bill & Dilys

Chairman Kay thanks hosts Bill & Dilys

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jonathan prepares for the carols

Jonathan prepares for the carols

 

Around 4pm as the light began to fade, and people drifted towards the living room where Jonathan Pegler was ready at the keyboard to orchestrate the carols and singing of Welsh favourites.

Hugh singing quietly

Hugh singing quietly

Mike Stythe – Honorary Member

In appreciation of his active and enthusiastic membership of the Society over the years Mike Stythe has been made an Honorary Member.

A former Lieutenant Colonel in the Army and for many years an Outward Bound instructor in North Wales, one of Mike’s specialities has been organising walks for us in his beloved Snowdonia. Most recently his idea of climbing Snowdon by train and walking down resulted in the Society’s trip to North Wales in May 2012.

Mike Stythe

 

That inspired idea was typical of Mike. He had already made 106 previous ascents, but he was determined to climb Snowdon one more time despite health issues. He found a solution, and it was one that suited many others in the Society too!

 

Update – Mike has since moved to a care home in Suffolk. Please ask Ann Lawrence if you’d like to contact him – 01494 727207 or membership@chilternwelsh.co.uk