Our much-anticipated Christmas event on 6th December brought the usual large number of members and friends to banish the winter blues and enjoy an evening of festive fun and fellowship. Indeed, 104 hardy souls braved the weather to enjoy the evening. With all the trials and tribulations we have all had to live through in the past couple of years it was an event that was much anticipated.
This was our first Christmas party for Southampton Solent Rotary, welcoming former members from Southampton, Southampton West, Clausentum and Magna, who have all helped form Southampton's newest Rotary!
The Salvation Army band from Shirley Corps were there to welcome guests as they arrived with a
medley of well-known carols which helped to create a wonderful seasonal atmosphere. After the
carols came the meal for which we must thank the Concorde staff. Mike Bunce played the piano in
his usual relaxed manner as we sat to have coffee and a chat.
We were able to hold our usual raffle, this year in aid of the Salvation Army Shirley Corps Christmas
Appeal. Through sales of tickets both at the evening and beforehand to those unable to attend, we
were able to raise the fantastic sum of £950 – a wonderful result. A big thank you goes to all who
purchased tickets in the hope of winning one of the marvellous prizes on offer, to those who had
donated the prizes and to Glynis, Sheila and helpers for making up the prizes and presenting them so beautifully.
Derek delighted us again with a couple of numbers, demonstrating his undoubted vocal talents. He was followed by Annie, Georgina and Louise from The Fifinellas who gave us a lovely selection of
songs. They and their colleagues have been singing for us at our Fabulous 40s Garden Party for many years.
The evening ended with communal carol singing and the traditional mayhem induced by “The
Twelve Days of Christmas”.
Thanks must go to the many hardworking members whose efforts made the evening possible,
particularly to Derek for organising the entertainment and ensuring it all went to plan. Also, to Judy
and Chrissie for sending out the invitations, co-ordinating the responses, preparing the table plan
and ensuring everyone received the meal they ordered out of the many combinations.
Thanks also to everyone for supporting the event and helping to raise so much money for the
Salvation Army. Let’s hope that next Christmas we will be able to gather once again in the spirit of
Rotary fellowship.
Nigel Riches
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