ID: WW01_201 / Winifred Hone

TitleOld folk and children entertained - Winifred Hone memoirs
AbstractOrganised by Mrs Hone of the Sailing and Social Club, together with her daughters Mrs Garriock and Mrs Todhunter, and a very large band of willing helpers, one hundred old folk of West Mersea enjoyed a wonderful treat. In the beautifully decorated British Legion Hall they sat down on Friday to a high tea of chicken, tongue, salad etc., followed by trifle. The Rev. Griffith Lloyd opened with grace and the National Anthem. Following this excellent meal, the old folk enjoyed a long and delightful entertainment consisting of dances by the pupils of Miss Betty Brooks, solo dances, Wendy Goddard and Jean Hiskey; songs, Miss Betty Taylor, Mr Taylor, Mrs F. French and songs and child impersonations, Mrs Aldous. The "Silly Six" consisting of Mrs R. Page, Mrs Neill, Mrs Burrell, Miss B. Brooks, Miss H. Taylor and Mrs F. French, dressed in comical costumes gave a number of old time songs and choruses with a joy and abandonment which was a great credit to them and much fun for their audience. Finally came Auld Lang Syne, which was accompanied with generous helpings of Mrs Hone's famous punch.

Thanks were expressed to Mrs Hone on behalf of the old people by Mrs Adney and many individual thanks also accorded. Oldest lady present was Mrs Cudmore aged 92, Mrs Billy Pullen at the age of 85 only narrowly defeated two other rivals by a few months. The old people were conveyed to and from the hall by private cars and to the owners of these and many helpers warm thanks were expressed.

On Saturday in the same hall two parties were held for children by the same organisers and helpers. In the afternoon under tens enjoyed a sumptuous tea followed by ices, and a delightful entertainment by Teddy Edwards Trio from Clacton. After six, children 10 to 15 received a similar tea and entertainment. Rousing cheers were given to Mrs Hone and the helpers who later in the evening held a party for themselves.

AuthorWinifred Hone
Publishedc1969
SourceMersea Museum / Wendy Brady
IDWW01_201