December Club Night

There was certainly a lot happening at our December Club Night.  On entering the hall, we could see a magnificent red and gold uniform on display on the stage.   Our speaker later in the evening was to be Patrick Nolan, born in Marton, and the only non British ex soldier ever to become one of the famous Beefeater’s of the Tower of London.

It was great to welcome a handful of husbands who had come along to listen to our special speaker.   We had the final showing of the Suitcase Exhibition on display, and although some of us had seen this before, many members had not had the chance to view this interesting touring exhibition.

Checking out the Suitcase Exhibition

Many had dressed in festive accessories for our Christmas meeting.  There were many sporting fancy earrings, flashing necklaces, and various versions of Christmas hats.  I’d never seen one quite like Paula’s hat before, I must admit.

 

Paula’s Santa Hat

There were raffles galore with Denise, Sandra, Catherine, Marjorie, Ute, Rachel, Bev and Lynne’s hubby Errol being the lucky winners.  Robyn and Luchelle  from Fox’s Cottage came along to tell us about the new larger premises they had moved to, classes on offer, and the exciting stock items they have.  And as usual, Show and Tell was a delight, with quilts, bags, and Dougal the Reindeer being proudly displayed.

Dougal was quite a cutie

 

Margaret’s Bag

Patrick Nolan then took to the stage, and kept us entertained with his tale of how he managed to become a Beefeater.  Once he was finally accepted,  Patrick and Dawn sold up everything and arrived in London with four suitcases to take up his dream job, with accommodation provided in the Tower.  There were facts and figures to learn by rote, tests to pass, ravens to deal with, and idiotic questions to answer civilly every day.  But he loved his new job, and they  happily stayed there for 16 years before finally returning home to New Zealand.

 

Patrick explaining the intricacies of his dress uniform

The evening concluded with a fabulous supper, the table was practically groaning with food.  Thanks to everyone who brought along a plate for supper.  And the Food Bank will be pleased with all the donations from club members who brought along a tin or packet to help those less fortunate.