The Guildford Catenians Blog: Annual Ladies Night 2nd March 2017 (Part 1)

The annual Ladies night was held on Thursday 2nd of March as opposed to the usual first Wednesday of the month as it clashed with Ash Wednesday. The change of date was not an issue and, as can be seen from the photographs below, everyone enjoyed themselves! The evening was quite a special one as it was the last meeting for Bro. Stephen Ballard as President of Guildford Circle before handing over the reins to Bro. Vice President, William D’Souza, in April.

The meeting commenced as usual in the upstairs bar at 7.30 pm sharp whilst the ladies remained downstairs. Suitably refreshed, they chatted away in the lounge. When the meeting was over everyone made their way into the dining room to their designated places. Mass before the meal was said by Fr. Sebastian Paul after which everyone tucked into the first course.

During dinner, Bro. President presented Bro. Des Carroll with a gift to thank him for his many years of service to the Circle. Bro. Des was President in 1975-76 continuing as Welfare Officer and member of the Benevolent Board. Other gifts were presented to Bro. David Corning and Bro. Peter Hutley in recognition and celebration of their 90th birthdays. In Bro. Peter’s absence, his gift was accepted by Bro. John Vickerman.

Following a survey undertaken by Bro. Secretary, Steve Rowden, Bro. President awarded a splendid silver 'Visitors Cup' to the brother who had made the most visits to other circles. That brother turned out to be none other than Bro. Secretary, Steve Rowden!

Then it was Bro. President's turn to be on the receiving end. He was presented with a miniature by Bro. Vice-President, William D'Souza in recognition of his year in Office. Bro. Vice-President also presented Bro. President’s wife, Jackie, with a lovely bouquet in grateful thanks for her provision of sustenance at Council meetings. Both Bro. President and Jackie were duly applauded and toasted!

Bro. President was back in the spotlight when he welcomed and toasted the Guildford Ladies. Maureen Dodds replied to Bro. President’s welcome on behalf of the Ladies who in turn toasted the Brothers. The evening continued with everyone in good spirits until, like all good things, it came to an end.