by K Tobiason

WE had looked forward to this evening for a long time but it was well worth the wait. Our 50th anniversary had come at last and I don't think anybody will forget it in a hurry.

Members were welcomed in to the hall where the tables were beautifully laid out and balloons hanging everywhere.

The committee, and especially Judie our president, had worked hard to produce a lovely atmosphere and a mouth-watering meal.

Each member received a gift of a WI cotton bag wrapped in gold paper, the work of Sue Morey. Judie had made a rather large cake, which was handsomely iced and decorated by Lorna Percival.

After the meal, which included a glass of wine, Judie recalled some of our past presidents and presented baskets of flowers to two of them who are still with us.

There were Lorna Percival and Dorothy Swindell.

Unfortunately, the other one who would normally be with us, Vita Bromwich, is in hospital but her flowers are being sent to her.

Denise Orrell came in dressed like a Yorkshire tea pot and gave each committee member a box of chocolates. The entertainers were then introduced. There were some of the Men's Fellowship from Risley Independent Methodist Church.

Then there was much laughter. Ron Percival could do with a new joke book, I don't know where he gets them from.

Some lovely singing and a funny Mollie Malone with his wheelbarrow, alias Les Hailey. After the entertainment, the men were heartily cheered and thanked by Judie. The cake was cut and everyone received a piece before going home. The evening closed with happy goodnights and agreement that it had been the best yet.