The 81st Club

click Organisations for others

click The 81st Club Committee for officials

note. 'From the Club album' refers to Harold Seymour's Personal Record of the Club's Activities

note from June 1985 Harold Seymour reported in 37 editions until May 1996. Lilian Curnow reported the next 5, then Pat Brooks the next 2.

3rd June 1958. signed by Mesdames Rutland, Ferris, WIlliams, Clayton and Oakford. Taken from the 81st Club Album (archived in the Village Hall)

On Tuesday 3rd June the first meeting of this proposed club was held in the Village Hall, Lacey Green. About forty old people came along and transport was provided for those too frail or who lived too far away to walk to the club.

It has been felt for some time that a club was needed in the district and it is hoped that members will come from the surrounding villages if they would care to do so.

A group of helpers and under the leadership of Mrs Isdell-Carpenter has been formed to start the club and it is proposed that a proper Old Peoples' Welfare Committee will be speedily elected from this group and others in the village interested in this project.

The District Nurse, Miss ?, Miss M Straffon and Miss M L Blyth were there to help with preparations and to get the club started. Mrs Rutland has agreed to undertake the task of treasurer.

Some local fund-raising will be necessary and the old people are very keen to help with this and also with the running of the club as much as possible themselves.

1958 From the Bucks Free Press. The 81s Club was the name chosen by Loosley Row, Lacey Green and district Darby and Joan Club at its first general meeting on Tuesday. The meeting was held in Lacey Green Village Hall and the chairman was the wife of the Member of Parliament for the Wycombe Division, Mrs John Hall. The club is the 81st to be formed in Buckinghamshire.

The club was formed in June and on Tuesday a committee and officers were elected. The committee will be known as The Loosley Row, Lacey Green and District Old Peoples' Welfare Committee.

Mrs Hall congratulated the villages for starting a club and thanked the chairman, Mrs Rosemary Isdell Carpenter for her preliminary work and Mrs P M Jourdan, who has agreed to become president of the club.

Mrs Hall welcomed the members, and said that it was encouraging to see so many. The club now has about 75 members and will be meeting monthly.

On Tuesday the afternoon started with a progamme of films which included a cartoon, a film about flower arrangement and another about boats.

A bring and buy stall raised 30shillings.

The officers elected were - Chairman Mrs R I Carpenter, Secretary Mrs K S Pickup, Treasurer Mrs F E Rutland. Committee - Mesdames N Ferris, W Oakford, M L Williams, M Claydon, M Rice, and Miss M Straffon. co-opted members of the committee - Mrs Shuttleworth district nurse, Miss Campbell health visitor, Miss M Blyth welfare worker and the Rev S H Keene. Tea helpers will include Mrs H Rixon, Mrs H Hawes and Mrs E B Cox.

1958 From the Bucks Free Press. 81st Club First Christmas Party. One feature that contributed to the "wonderful success" in the words of the chairman Mrs R E Carpenter at the 81st Club party on Saturday was that each member was able to take a guest.

More than 140 old people from Lacey Green, Loosley Row, North Dean and Speen went to the First Christmas party for members.

Mr John Hall, MP for Wycombe Division who also described the party a success and said he liked going to Lacey Green because everyone was so happy and friendly there. His wife and the vicar Rev S Keene were also among guests.

For the old people there was entertainment by a conjurer and tea, dominated by an outsize cake with 81 candles, made by a member of e committee and cut by the oldest member.

After tea they sang with West Wycombe Derby & Joan Club choir and percussion band.

Committee members were given presents off a Christmas tree and the drivers who take members to the meetings were at the party.

June 1960. From the Bucks Free Press. Second Birthday Party of the 81st Club. Dressed in their uniforms with scarlet coats, 28 Chelsea Pensioners attended the second birthday party of the 81st Club on Saturday. The party was held in Lacey Green Village Hall and there were about 145 people present

Tea was served by members of the 81st Club committee and helpers and an iced cake was made by Mrs N Ferris. This was cut by the eldest member present Mrs R Gomme and the eldest Chelsea Pensioner there.

An entertainment variety show was given by members of the Monks Risborough St John's Ambulance Brigade. As they left the party the old folk were given presents of cigarettes, tobacco and flowers.

1960 From the Bucks Free Press. 81st Club Third Christmas Party. More than 150 members of Lacey Green, Loosley Row and Speen 81st Club enjoyed their third annual Christmass party last week at Lacey Green Village Hall. The proceedings opened with a delicious turkey tea during which the large cake baked by Mrs N Ferris was cut and eaten. The folk were served by club committee members and many helpers. A gift was given to every guest from the large Christmas tree.

The old folk were then entertained with a short play by the Hughenden Players, produced by Mrs B Weekes. The evening ended with community hymn singing. Among the the guests were Mr John Hall M.P. and his wife.

June 1961. From the Bucks Free Press. Third Birthday Party of the 81st Club. Eighteen Chelsea Pensioners were among the guests at the third birthday party of the 81st Club held at Lacey Green Village Hall on Saturday. The committee gave a tea of ham and salad to the 90 members and other guests.

An iced cake was made by Mrs N Ferris. The Womens Institute Drama Group gave an entertainment which was produced by Mrs A Waite (Arthur & Joyce Waite) The choir from Monks Risborough St John's Ambulance Brigade also entertained.

Mrs B Higgins won the cup at the handicrafts exhibition for members of the club.

1961 From the Bucks Free Press. 81st Club 4th Christmas Party. Special guests at the fourth annual Christmas party of Loosley Row and Lacey Green 81st Club on Saturday were the MP for Wycombe Division John Hall and his wife.

About 94 old folk went to the party at Lacey Green Village Hall. The function was originally planned for Jan 6th, but had had to be put off because of sickness and bad weather.

Entertainers were Mr Bill Meredith Concert party. Volunteer Luke Smith 79 went on stage and delighted his fellow club members by singing "Honey.honey". Mr Colin Fawcett also sang.

Oldest member at the party was 85 year old Mrs Lillah Gomme of Loosley Row.

An iced cake made by Mrs N Ferris was cut by Mr & Mrs H Benning of Picts Lane, Princes Risborough who celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary recently.

Members were sorry to learn recently that their chairman for the past four years Mrs R Isdell-Carpenter, is about to leave them on moving to Surrey.

1963 From the Bucks Free Press. 81st Club 5th Annual General Meeting. Th 81st Club had its fifth Annual General Meeting on Tuesday. Mrs Nugent Young who has attended all five meetings, gave a talk about the running of different clubs and also spoke on Hampton Court where members will be going on a free outing next week. They will also visit Kingston-on-Thames.

After the general business, a tea party was given for Mr and Mrs W H Benning of Princes Risborough, who recently celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary. Joining in the celebration were Mr and Mrs F Plumridge of Speen, who celebrated their golden wedding in April, and Mr and Mrs B Stallwood who celebrated their diamond wedding.

Mr and Mrs Benning who cut a cake which was made by Mrs N Ferris were presented with a basket of fruit and bottle of wine and a bouquet of flowers. Their daughter Mrs M Baker thanked the club for their kind wishes, and Mr and Mrs Benning gave the helpers a bottle of sherry.

The president, Mrs P Jourdan welcomed members and their friends and thanked the committee for their work. The balance sheet was said to be satisfactoy by the treasurer and secretary, Mrs F E Rutland.

Officers elected were - secretary Mrs M Probert, treasurer Mrs Rutland, chairman Mrs Rutland. Committee - Mrs J Chance, Mrs N Ferris, Mrs I Weller, Mrs M Rixon, Mrs Browning, Mr Jack Fawcett and Rev. Houghton.

90 year old Mrs Rixon from Speen cuts the birthday cake in June 1964.

June 1964 From the Bucks Free Press. 81st Club 6th Birthday Party. Scottish dancing by a group of children from Little Missenden, under the direction of Miss E Hobbs, delighted the 110 members and guests at the sixth birthday party of Lacey Green's 81st Club in Lacey Green Village Hall on Saturday.

There was a lavish tea and equally lavish entertainment and a cake to commemorate the sixth birthday of the club, made by Mrs N Ferris, was cut by the club's oldest member Mrs Sarah Rixon of Speen.

Members were entertained by Mrs B Sell with monologues and comedy sketches and greetings were read by Mrs F E Rutland, club chairman.

June 1966 From the Bucks Free Press. 81st Club 8th Birthday Party. "The best party they had ever had" was the comment of the 90 members of the 81st Club after celebrating their 8th birthday at lacey Green Village Hall on Tuesday.

Some hours bfore the event committee members are helpers had been preparing and laying out the many tables loaded with ham saled tea. All was ready when the 90 members and 6 guests from Tindal Hospital arrived.

A cake, skilully decorated and bearing 8 candles made by committee member Mrs M Rixon was cut by the club president Mr Jack Chance, who reminded members of their Summer Outing to St Leonards next week.

A birthday message was sent by founder chairman, Mrs R Isdell-carpenter, who left the district 6 years ago.

Mrs F Rutland, the club chairman reported the death of two members, saying how sadly they would be missed. She also reported that two new members had joined.

After the tea everyone included the helpers were taken on a coach tour of the Chilterns and the Thames Valley stopping at Egham for tea.

Telegram from Dr and Mrs Dickson of Speen Farm and Roy and Fiona Castle, sent from New York.

Albert and Fanny Kirby

December 1965. From the Bucks Free Press. Greetings from T.V Star. One hundred and forty-five members and guests of Lacey Green 81st Club sat down to their Christmas Party at Lacey Green Village Hall on Saturday

They were welcomed by the chairman, Mrs F Rutland, who also read a cable from Dr and Mrs Dickson and Mr and Mrs Castle from New York. TV star Roy Castle married Fiona Dickson from Speen Farm. A greetings telegram was also received from Mr John Hall M P. and his wife.

Guests included the President Mrs F Chance, members of Princes Risborough Evergreen Derby and Joan Club and the Princes Risborough Red Cross Derby and Joan Club, Lacey Green Village Hall Committee, the 81st club car drivers, Sister Sylvia, Mr Chapel, The Rev. Bernard and Mrs Houghton, Mrs Flintham of Lacey Green W.I. and Councillor and Mrs Harry Church.

A presentation was made to Mr and Mrs A Kirby by the president to celebrate their Golden Wedding. Mr and Mrs Kirby are founder members of the 81st Club.

A large decorated cake made by Mrs M Rixon was cut by Mrs Rutland and after tea they were entertained by a comedy play by members of The Womens Institute of Lacey Green followed by folk songs by two students.

Each member was presented with a Chrstmas parcel including chickens given by Mr J Fawcett of Poultry Packers.

17th Birthday Party. l-r. Mrs 'Rene Sanders, Mrs Rutland, Mrs Puddephatt. Mrs E Smith, and Mrs D Harris.

1975 From the Bucks Free Press. 81st Club 17th Birthday Party. Lacey Green 81st Club is 17 years old this year and celebrated with a Birthday Party which brought together 100 people for lunch in Lacey Green Village Hall. Mrs F E Rutland organised the party and everyone sat down to a meal of cold turkey, potatoes and peas and tart.

Mrs Sarah Puddephatt aged 89 our oldest member at the party cut a huge square cake made by Miss E Williams

1978. Reg & Rose Tilbury. Golden Wedding

When the plates were cleared away the hall was soon filled with organ music played by Mrs D Smith from Naphill.

In 1978 Lillian Williams reported to Hallmark for the 81st Club.

1978. Extract from the Bucks Free Press. On Tuesday there was a pleasant surprise for Reg & Rose Tilbury when they found their friends at The 81st Club had made a cake in their honour. They were also presented with champagne and glasses.

Report by Bob Sanders, son of Wilf & 'Rene Sanders who moved into Stocken Cottage no 4 in 1966.

Rene became involved in the 81^st club and eventually became Secretary working with the other ladies involved. I remember her involved in so many day trips and of course there was always the hugely popular Christmas dinner cooked by Irene and the other willing ladies.

Doris Oliver cuts the cake. click Andrew & Doris Oliver for more about Doris

1974 Harry & Nellie Rixon. Golden Wedding.

In 1974 Mrs Frances Rutland was still the Chairman of the 81st club

At the October meeting of The 81st Club held at Lacey Green Village Hall Harry & Nellie Rixon were guests of honour. The committee and members laid on a Golden Wedding party for them with a specially prepared cake. During a most enjoyable afternoon's entertainment they were presented with a half tea service and a large bouquet of flowers.

1979 The 81st Club Mrs. Williams reporting

We held our Harvest Festival in October. The tables were laden with Produce and Flowers brought by members. Mrs. K. Church conducted the service of Hymns, Readings and Remarks. I am sure everyone enjoyed the afternoon. Many thanks to Mr. & Mrs. Williams at the Whip who kindly lent us the organ, not forgetting Mr. Bert Dell who transported it and Mr. Harold Williams the organist.

It was nice to be back in the Village Hall for our November meeting, with plenty of room to spread ourselves. Mr. Stuart King gave us a very interesting talk with films on the history of chairmaking. He showed us some beautiful models.

The Annual Bazaar was held later this year and it was a great success. We greatly appreciate all the donations of prizes and goods for sale, and are also most grateful to those who bought tickets for our Draw.

Hallmark 1983 report by Mrs L Williams. We are sorry to record the loss of Miss Madge Gomme from Waddesden View, Loosley Hill, Loosley Row, who had lived there all her life. A nice quiet woman, who joined the club a few years ago.

Hallmark February 1985. report by Harold Seymour.

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Hallmark April 1985. report by Harold Seymour. In February we had a talk on the Old Pubs of Wycombe, given by Mr Mayes. Being Wycombe's oldest Librarian he was able to obtain quite a lot of information on this subject, which made the talk very interesting indeed. There were 64 members at this meeting.

In March we had a talk by Mrs Eason on the work and good done by the Citizens' Advice Bureau. After the talk she went round answering individual questions from members. There were 62 members present.

Mr T Adams and Mr E Oakford are in hospital. To these and others who are ill we say get well soon and join us again.

Mrs A Gomme died on Thursday 28th February aged 95 years. She was a founder member of the 1st Club. Our sympathygoes to all her relatives.

Since our AGM last year we have been working with a temporary Secretary, thanks to Mrs Lennard. But we do need some kind lady to come and take over to help our Chairman Mrs M Smith. If there is anyone in Lacey Green we would be very pleased to hear from them.

Would members please note that the date for the Birthday Lunch has been brought forward to Tuesday 28th May.

Hallmark June 1985. report by Harold Seymour. Once in the year we have a games afternon. This we had in April. I find that the majority of members on these occasions are content to discuss the things that have happened over the last month. But we must cater for those who enjoy a game of whist or dominoes.

Every three months we hold a compettion for a Rose Bowl which was presented to the club; the winner holds the trophy for three months. The subject for April was a collection of wild spring flowers, but owing to spring being a little late this year not many entries were made. Those who did were judged by Mrs Tyler who declaed Mrs Tobtt of Speen the winner.

We regret the death of on of our older members, Mrs N Bowler of Speen who passed away on Tuesday April 9th aged 94 years. Our sympathy goes to all relatives.

On April 10th Club members went on a Mystery Tour of the countryside which was organised by Mr Blackwell. They had lovely weather and saw some of the joys of a late spring. Ending the day with a fish and chip tea.

At our May meeting we were to have had a talk by Mrs Timpson but the lady was indisposed and Mrs Franklyn made arangements for a film show which made a nice change from the advertising films we usually have.

By the way my appeal for a Club Secretary has been answered by Mrs Carter of Westlands, and on behalf of members I say thank you very much and we wish her success.

Those of our members who were in hospital are now home and making progress. Mrs Tong had a nasty fall and has been in hospital for a month or more. We wish her a speedy recovery. If there are any other members who are sick, look sharp and get better and back with us.

Hallmark July/August 1985. report by Harold Seymour. We are sorry that two meetings had to be held in May. But we have not been able to use the main hall on the mornimg of Club day until 12 o'clock, this has made things a bit rushed to prepare the hall and get back for the meeting at 1.30 pm. So we had to hold the Birthday Luncheon when the children were on holiday. However our chairman had a word with Mrs P Dell and the ladies who run the Nursery and we are now able to use the hall.

As you can imagine it takes quite a time to decorate and set the tables but our committee and helpers worked very well together and you saw the result on the day.

The committee made the flower arrangements for the tables and Mrs Franklin did those for the entrance hall. The meal was prepared and served by the ladies of the W.I. doing a grand job. "Thank you very much".

The entertainment for the afternoon was given by Mr Adamwoska with his accordian and members enjoyed a hearty sing-song. The birthday cake was made and decorated by Mrs Lily Williams.

Friends from other clubs attended and I am sure members were pleased to welcome Mr and Mrs Plowman and Mr and Mrs Sanders.

Mrs Smith has lost a green tablecloth edged with lace. If anyone knows anything of this would they please contact her.

We regret the death of Mrs Minnie Adams who passed away on Monday May 20th aged 96 years. She was a founder member of the club. Our sympathy goes to all relatives.

On July 2nd we held our Garden Party. For this we were blessed with a glorious summer day and it was a delightfu setting at Wimble End, Church Lane, by kind permission of Mr and Mrs Knight. Thank you both very much. We were entertained by children of St John's School, giving a gymnastic display. At the end they were given a lollypop each to cool them down. During the afternoon Mr and Mrs Knight were presented with a small gift.

If there are any senior citizens in the village who would care to join us on the first Tuesday of the month we would be pleased to see them.

Hallmark September 1985. report by Harold Seymour. At our meeting on August 6th we had a talk on 'Life in a Country School'. This would appear to be a boring subject, but not so. The way our speaker Mrs Fryer from Cadmore End presented it to us there was never a dull moment and all our members had a good many laughs during the afternoon.

On August 27th 14 of our members were invited to Speen W.I. Birthday Lunch and I say "Thank you" to the ladies of Speen for a lovely aftenoon.

On Thursday August 29th it was the day for our Seaside Outing, and with the poor weather we had been having this summer, things were not looking too bright. But it would seem the sun was waiting for the 81st Club, as the weather was glorious and everyone enjoyed themselves.

On Tuesday September 3rd we held our AGM. This was preceded by a film showing some of Lord Rothschild's houses and gardens, this was interesting and colourul. Mrs B Harrington was in charge of the AGM in the absence of Mrs M Smith. Mrs Carter gave the Secretary's report, Mrs V Webster the Treasurer's report and Mr Seymour the Chairman's report. We were informed that two members of the committee wished to stand down, Mrs Harrington and Mrs Harris, they were thanked for the service they had given to the club and both were presented with a fine piece of lace in a frame. The committee thought the Club should have a Vice-Chairman and my name was put to the meeting. This was carried so yours truly will do his best. Mrs Spurry was approached to take over as President, and we shall be pleased to have her back with us. Mrs Tempest has taken over the place of Mrs Harris and we say 'Welcome to the Club and Thank you'. So we start again with a full committee, and I hope that all members will back them up as they do quite a lot for us over the year.

Our Chairman made an appeal for members to help sew a blanket, but the response was very poor, only two members put their name down. Come on, I'm sure we can do better than that!

Hallmark November 1985. report by Harold Seymour. on October 1st we held our Harvest Festival. Members brought vegetabes, fruit and flowers which when arranged around the stage made a good show. Mrs Tempest supplied us with two sheaves of corn and Speen Bakery a loaf which they made no charge for. Thank you.

The Rev Maynard gave the service and Mrs Maynard played the piano. We sang 4 harvest hymns. After the service all the produce was sold and made £38. This will be donated towards the new extension to Thame Hospital.

On October 19th we held our Annual Bazaar which was opened by Mrs R Sanders. It was very nice to have her do this because in the past she had worked hard for the Club. Quite a lot of goods were brought to the Hall and members were in charge of the stalls. The support we got was disappointing as we only ask for support once a year and the proceeds go towards giving the members a little treat at Christmas. We were very pleased to have the company of Mrs Plowman. I would like to say 'Thank you' to Palmer and Harvey, Bert and May and also the others who gave us prizes for the raffle. We made a total of £350.

On November 5th we were given a demonstration by Mrs Franklin on the making of Christmas Decorations. She made 3 or 4 different types using material that was cheap and easy to come by, and when finished they looked very attractive. Afterwards members were invited to have a go for themselves.

I wish you all A Happy Christmas and New Year.

Hallmark February 1986. report by Harold Seymour. We started our festive season on December 3rd with a visit to the school and were given an enjoyable afternoon of singing by the children and an excellant tea was provided by the ladies of the School Association. Unfortunately this year we were unable to see the children's costumes as they were late rehearsing.

Our thanks go to Mr Green and his staff.

On December 10th we held our own Christmas Party and entertainmet was provided by The Happy Gang from Hughenden. They gave us a pleasant aftenoon with plenty of laughts. The cake was made and given by Mrs L Williams (Thank you Lily) and cut by Mrs Lily Barber as an appreciation of the work she undertook when living in the village. I thought how nice it was for the senior citizens and the children to be able to get together on these two occasions.

We regret the death of one of our members Mrs R Dell who passed away on Friday January 10th aged 73. Our sympathy goes to all relatives. Miss Fletcher, one of our late members has also died.

Lastly an appeal. Could anyone help us with transport in getting club members to and from the Village Hall on club days (the first Tuesday in the month). At the moment we are having great difficulty. If anyone is willing to help please contact Mrs Glyn-Jones on Princes Riborough 5465.

Hallmark April 1986. report by Harold Seymore. The first meeting of the year did not start very well owing to the snow and bitter cold. However we managed 15 members and amused ourselves at whist. I say "Thank you" to all the helpers who braved the storm.

On the 4th of February we were given a talk by Mrs Fryer (Light Hearted Looks) this consisted of the history of fine old buildings in and around West Wycombe. She spoke quite a lot of Bucks dialect which made it rather amusing at times and everyone enjoyed themselves.

At our March meeting Dr Maisey gave us a talk on Health and Retirement which was not only helpful and interesting to members but very entertaining. Again the weather wasn't good but attendance was well up.

We regret the death of Mr Tony Adams on 2nd February aged 79. Our sypathy goes to his wife and family.

We are still waiting to welcome new members, surely there are some in this village who could come along from 2 - 4 pm to the Village Hall the first Tuesday of each month to share a pleasant afternoon among friends, all with a common interested in being retired.

Hallmark June 1986. report by Harold Seymore. On April 1st we enjoyed a film showing the life of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. This was appropriate, her 60th birthday being this month. Attendance was not quite our full number as some members were suffering the effects of the cold weather. We wish them a speedy recovery.

On Thursday 24 April we went on a Mystery Tour of the Countryside, which was organised by Mr Blackwell. It made a pleasant afternoon but would have been better had Spring come a bit earlier.

On May 6th we had a demonstration by Mrs Dunn on "Cooking for Two". She prepared and cooked some trout and made a salad to go with it. This was bought by one of our members.

I am sorry to report we are losing our chairman, Mrs Smith, as she is leaving the village to be near her family. We wish her health and happiness in her new home and thank her for her service to the club. Members and committee made a collection and she was given a bird bath for her garden.

We have lost one of our drivers, Mr Moore who died suddenly on May 6th. this was a big shock to all of us. Our sympathy goes to his wife.

Hallmark August 1986. report by Harold Seymour. On Tuesday May 27th we held our 27th Birthday Luncheon to which we invited several members who had served the Club well in the past. The hot meal which was prepared and served by members of the W.I. made a welcome change from those of previous occasions and our thanks to the W.I. for their service.

Entertainment was provided by Mrs Louise Langley. Her solos were enjoyed by all. The Birthday cake was made by Mrs L Williams and cut by two of our oldest members - Mrs Rixon and Mrs Dormer.

On July 1st we had our Garden Party at Lane Farm by kind permission of Mr and Mrs Clay. Thank you both. Once again the weather was glorious and and we were entertained by 72 childen from St John's School. All members thoroughly enjoyed the afternon. At the end Mrs Clay was presented with a box of chocolates.

On Thursday July 10th a Coffee Morning and bring and buy was held at the home of Mr and Mrs Glyn-Jones. This was in aid of the Club. Owing to the splendid support given by members and others from the village we made £105. Thank you all.

Hallmark November 1986. report by Harold Seymour. On September 27th we held a Jumble Sale, this was in place of our usual bazaar, the profit being £178.

October 2nd, a coffee morning and bring and buy was organised by Mrs B Tyler at her home. With good support by members and others, and a willing lot of helpers to which we sent our thanks, the morning realised £110 for club funds.

Our October meeting was the annual Harvest Festival, the service being taken by Mrs K Church. The produce being sold afterwards making £31.95p This was made up to £50 and donated to Village Hall Roof Fund. At that meeting the annual draw took place, a list of winners is displayed in the Post Office and the profit was £50.20p

Unfortunately we have lost two more of our members with the death of Mrs Collier and Mr Charlie Stevens, we send our sympathy to their families.

At the November 4th meeting we held our 27th AGM. The Acting Chairman gave his report on the years work of the club, followed by the Treasurer's report. The President put forward a new constitution to members and that was accepted, being proposed by Mrs M Adams and seonded by Mr L Williams and carried.

It was then announced that Mr Seymore, Mrs Spurry and Mrs Franklin would be retiring and three new members were co-opted onto the committee.

At the first committee meeting after the AGM the following officers were approved (President) Mr H Seymour, (Chairperson) Mrs V Webster, (Secretary) Mrs P Brookes, (Treasurer and Transport Secretary) Mrs U Glyn-Jones, (Entertainment Secretary) Mrs M Rhodes, (Outings Secretary) Mr J Blackwell.

I would like to thank Mrs W Carter for the grand job she has done as Secretary.

To all club members and the loyal band of helpers - A Happy Chrismas and New Year.

Hallmark December 1986. report by Harold Seymour. I hope all members had a nice Christmas and are looking forward to a healthy New Year.

We started our festive season with our own 28th Christmas party on December 2nd, so that the school children could have an extra week for their rehearsals. Entertainment was provided for our party by Mr Wyatt on his electronic organ. This gave us the opportunity to have a real good sing-song which everyone enjoyed. The committee, helpers, drivers and friends from other organiations were invited. Thank you, all those who helped to make it a success once again. The cake was made by Mrs L Williams and cut by Mrs Probert one of the club's older members.

On December 19th we were entertained by the children of St John's School who gave a pleasant afternoon. This was followed by a tea provided by the ladies of the PTA. Our thanks to these also to Mr Green and his staff.

Once again we were invited to attend a small entertainmentgiven by children of the Nursery Class, followed by sherry and mince pies. I would like to thank Gill Gosling and her helpers for their invitation as it is nice to think that the older ones in the village can be with the younger ones occasionally.

Members please do not forget that the new time for the meeting is 1.45pm.

Thank you to all those who visited the old people with offers of help during the cold spell.

Hallmark February 1987. report by Harold Seymour. On January 6th we were shown a film of the Scilly Isles and its wild life. This made a very interesting afternoon and was enjoyed by all members.

On February 3rd a talk was given by Mr Leeser on Age Concern. This would have been more interesting if he had given us some information as to the working of Age Concern.

the better weather should be on its way and Mr Blackwell is busy preparing our first outing of the year.

We regret the deaths of Mr Ted Thompson and Mr John Plowman, our sympathy has been sent to their wives and children. Also the death of one of our older members Mr H Rixon.

Hallmark April 1987. report by Harold Seymour. On March 3rd a talk and demonstration was given by Mrs Julie Frankland on "Gift Ideas". The materials she used were fairly cheap and easy to come by. When finished the gifts were simple but very attractive.

On April 7th we had an afternoon of bingo, three prizes being given. Members enjoyed this for a change.

On April 14th club members went on their first outing of the season, a tour of the countryside. This was organised by Mr Blackwell and this time for a change we toured some of Berkshire, finishing with our usual fish and chip tea. Apart from a shower at the start and end the weather was good.

I would like to remind members that we have a stall in the Village Hall on Village Day. I hope together we make a good day.

Hallmark June 1987. report by Harold Seymour. On May 5th a talk was given by Mrs J Woodham( Marks & Spencer plc) on Marks & Spencer from its begining to the present day. Some interestig questions were asked by members afterwards.

On June 7th we had our 28th Birthday Lunch. We were entertained by pupils from Wellesbourne School who gave a good half hour's entertainment.

The lunch was super; the main part was being done by members of the committee and the final preparation by the W.I. Thank you all very much.

Mrs L Williams made the cake which was cut by Mr Goodchild.

We regret the death of three of our members; Mrs Tobbutt, Mrs Storey and Mrs Jones. We have sent our sympathy to the families.

I would like to remind members that we are having a Jumble Sale on Saturday October 3rd, so please do not forget to have a look in those wardrobes and drawers.

Hallmark August 1987. report by Harold Seymour. On July 7th we held our Garden Party in the grounds of Lane Farm, by kind permission of Mr and Mrs Clay.. Thank you both. I think we must be lucky as we enjoyed a sunny afternoon once again and the children from St John's School gave us a fine display of gymnastics which all members enjoyed.

On August 4th we had a film show, this was rather disappointing as we could not have the film which was in the programme.

On August 18th ten members were invited to Speen W.I.'s luncheon. A good time was had by all, and I would like to say 'Thank you' to the ladies of Speen.

I am sorry to have to report the death of another member, Mr Oakford, who died on August 5th. Our sympathy has been sent to his family.

We were pleased to hear that Mrs Witcher, one of our drivers, is now out of hospital and making progress.

We welcome 4 new members to the club, Mrs Jackson, Mr Rowe, and Mr and Mrs Booth. It would be nice if any others would care to join us.

Hallmark October 1987. report by Harold Seymour. September was a busy month with our Harvest Festival on the 1st. Father Raymond Maynard led the service, Mrs K Church read the lesson and Mrs Maynard played the piano. Afterwards the gifts of flowers and vegetables were sold in aid of Club and a local charity. £42 was raised.

On the 8th Mrs V Webster arranged a Coffee Morning at her home, Walnut Tree House, Goodacres Lane, which was well supported by members and others -we 'made' £118 - I thank Mrs Webster her grand effort also those who helped.

Then on the 10th members were invited by The Dolphin Players to see a play (Move Over Mrs Markham). Transport was provided by The Rotary Club. This made a very enjoyable evening for those members who attended. Thanks to all concerned.

On October 3rd we held a Jumble Sale. This was not a very great success as the wrong date was in the local press. We did manage £185.

I am sorry to report the death of Mrs Russell, one of our members who has not been able to attend the club for the last 3 years due to ill health. Our sympathy has been sent to the family and a donation to The Heart Foundation.

At the October 6th meeting we held our 28th AGM. The chairman gave her report on the years work of the club; followed by the treasurers report.

It was announced that Mrs D Harris and Mrs P Frazer would be retiring from the catering. We thank them for their services to the club. Mrs G Croucher and Mrs E Dean will be the new caterers. The remainder of th committee agreed to carry on.

I would like to thank the committee for their service over the past year, and members for their support.

Happy Christmas and New Year to you all.

Hallmark December 1987. report by Harold Seymour. On November 3rd a talk was given by Mrs Fryer which was on 'Christmas Customs'. I did not think this was quite as good as her previous talks have been.

On December 1st we were looking forward to our 29th Christmas Party. During the morning we were told that Mrs Lennard had been taken to hospital. However we made all the preparation and the afternoon was a success. Entertainment was given by 'The Happy Gang' from Hughenden and as usual they gave us a good afternoon. The tea which was prepared by members, was good and I thank them all for their support. The cake was made by Mrs Turner and cut by Mrs Orritt, one of our older members.

Hallmark February 1988. report by Harold Seymour. After the festive season I suppose it was only right that our first meeting of the year should be 'Keep Fit'. On January 5th a demonstration of 'Keep Fit' was given by Mrs Frazer and her class from Naphill. A number of the movements could be performed sitting down so that some of our members had a go, and enjoyed it.

On February 2nd a film was shown on the life of H.M. the Queen. Most members enjoyed this, which was a change from the usual advertising film.

A number of events are being arranged for the coming months. The first is a Coffee Morning to be given by Mrs E Deane at 'Griston' Goodacres Lane at 10 o'clock on Tuesday 10th May. This is also a 'Bring and Buy'. Please all support it.

I am sorry to say that we lost our oldest member in the club, Mrs Orritt, who passed away on February 7th. A message of sympathy has been sen to the family.

Hallmark April 1988. report by Harold Seymour. On March 1st a talk and demonstration was given by Mr Mr Stiff on wooden models of farm carts made to scale, and all the different types used from all the various parts of the country.

On April 5th the speaker was Mrs K Gammon from Wycombe General Hospital on 'Patient Care'. A little disappointing, but learning afterwads this was her first talk , that could be the answer.

April 14th saw the first of the year's outings - a Mystery Tour - with a stop for the usual fish and chip tea.

The coffee morning and bring and buy given by Mrs Deane made £102 for the club funds. Our thanks go to Mrs Deane and all wo attended.

Hallmark June 1988. report by Harold Seymour. On 3rd May we had the company of Mrs Frankie Plowman who gave us a talk on New Zealand. This included some lovely slides of different parts of the country which made an interesting afternoon. She also judged the best dressed doll competition, the winner being Mrs Mary Adams with Mrs Grace Lawence coming second.

For our June meeting we celebrated our 29th Birthday with a much looked forward to lunch and what a splendid lunch it was. Prepared by members of The Womens Institute I would like to congratulate those ladies responsible for making apple tarts. Guests invited to join us at lunch were all the regular helpers and drivers, some members of the Naphill club and a special welcome to Mr and Mrs Sanders as Mrs Sanders was the chairman or many years before moving from the village. Mr and Mrs C Stevens and Mr and Mrs S Williams celebrated their golen weddings and both were presented with bouquets. The birthday cake was cut by Mrs Sanders and the after lunch entertainment was provided by Vic Smiths, Linda Longurst, Bill and Madeline Cleaver with Madeline Forester at the piano.

Hallmark August 1988. report by Harold Seymore. On July 5th we held a Garden Party but for the first time for a number of years the weather upset our plans and we had to hold it in the Village Hall. Apart from the children not having much space in which to perform, everything went fine. The children have us a good display of gymnastics for which we thank the headmaster Mr Green and the teacher in charge of the children.

On August 2nd we had a talk on 'Security in the Home' by the Thames Valley Police. P.C.Hale was the speaker. The trouble with this subject is - each person that talks on this subject has different views - therefore people get confused more so the older ones.

On August 14th we served teas at the Home of Rest for Horses, Speen Farm, by kind permission of Mr and Mrs J Spurry. Owing to a fine response from members with their home-made cakes and prodce the result at the end of the day was very good as we made £22.25p. I would like to thank Mrs Spurry for the help she gave us.

Hallmark October 1988. report by Harold Seymour On 6th September we held our Harvest Festival; as we prepared the hall on that morning it did not look as if we would get much produce but by the afternoon once again the members came up trumps and when the meeting started we had a fine show. Mrs Church led the service and Mrs Stevens played the piano. The sale of gifts made £25 which was shared by two charities.

On 4th October we held our AGM. The Committee were thanked for their services over the year then the Chairman gave her report of the year's work of the club; the Committee were all re-elected to stay on for another year.

I think members wold agree that we have had another happy year together and on behalf of them I wish you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year.

Hallmark December 1988. report by Harold Seymour. We are looking for new members - give us a try! On 1st November we had films on flowers. This made a pleasant afternoon with plenty of colour which was enjoyed by everyone.

on 6th December the members had their 30th Christmas Party and although funds were not too good before the day, owing to the generosity of some members and others, things did turn out well in the end. I would like to say 'Thank You' too them all. We were entertained by the 'Happy Gang' from Hughenden. Everyone had an afternoon of fun and laughter. Members had prepaed a lovely tea and the committee wish to congratulate them on a job well done. The cake was made by Mrs L Williams and cut by Mrs A Janes.

On 7th December we were invited to the school for entertainment and tea. This was once again a fine performance by the children and a lovely tea prepared by the PTA. I say 'Thank You' to them, the headmaster and teachers.

We finished the festive season as usual by being invited to see the young ones of the village perform. We say 'Thank You' children and Gill Gosling and helpers for the mince pies and drink.

We started the year on a sad note. Three of our members passed away. Mrs T Stevens on 18th December, Mr F Ginger on 25th December and Mrs B Dormer on 8th January.

Messages of sympathy have been sent to the families also donations have been given to charities of their choice.

If there are any senior citizens in the village who would like to join us on the first Tuesday of each month the committee and members would be pleased to make them welcome.

December 1988. Committee Members. In front Mrs V Webser and Mr Harold Seymour. Behind l-r. Mrs E Dean, Mrs L Curnow, Mr J Blackwell. Mrs G Croucher, Mrs M West

February 1989. Extract from report by Harold Seymour. We started the year on a sad note. Three of our mebers passed away. Mrs T Stevens on 18 December, Mr Fred Ginger (click Fred & Madge Ginger for more) and Mrs Beatrice Dormer (click Fred & Beatrice Dormer) on 8 January.

September 1991 Harold Seymour reported in Hallmark, the following: - "The 81st over 60 club. For our August meeting we were to have had a flower arranging demonstration by Ursula and Lilian, but owing to illness this was not possible, so we had to fall back on the old faithful bingo.

September 3rd was Harvest Festival, and this year the service was conducted by the Rev. Williams from the Methodist Church, not many members were present only 36 so that by the end of the afternoon the result of the sale of produce only came to £23.10p which is to be donated to a local charity.

I wish we could attract new members to join our club, as it is becoming more and more difficult to finance our programme. Perhaps someone would tell me why my constant appeals for new members has so far failed." Don't forget our Coffee Morning and the usual bring and buy, at the Village Hall on Tuesday, October 29th.

1992. From the Album. The 81st Club held its 34th Christmas party

July 1992. From the Album. Visit to Milton-Under-Wychwood W.I. on 7th July 1992

From the Album. Outing to Brill Church and Windmill with tea afterwards gven by members of Lacey Green Church

1993. From the Album. The 81st Club held its 35th Christmas party

June 1994. From the Album. The 81st Club held its 35th Birthday Party (lunch)

1994. From the Album. The 81st Club had a boat trip on the Thames in July 1994

1995. From the Album. The 81st Club held its 37th Christmas party in 1995

1997. From the Album. The 81st Club held its Harvest Festival in September 1997

Hallmark February 1998. Message from Pat Brooks. The members of the 81st Over 60's Club would like to thank Lynne from The Black Horse for the splendid Christmas Lunch she provided for them in the Village Hall on 9th December. The meal was delicious as too was the wine and everyone wishes to thank her for her kindness and generosity. Thank you Lynne.