Dudley South Ladies Luncheon

At the February meeting chairman Mary Jones was pleased to welcome visitor Jeanette Gaunt and 30 members for a 3-course lunch, the Annual General Meeting and to hear speaker Bob Broadfield about his early life as an acrobat in the circus and Variety. The AGM gave Mary the opportunity to thank the committee, president Brenda Adkin and members for their support and generosity in 2016 and was delighted to welcome volunteer Jill Buchan on to the committee. She felt that after 6 years in the chair it was time for her to stand down but was willing to remain on the admin committee to help in any way required. On behalf of all members Ann Rogers paid her a warm tribute and presented her with a gift of silver earrings. Pauline Handley and Ann Rogers were appointed co Chairmen and other officers were re-appointed as previous year.

Mr Broadfield outlined the life in a circus from his beginning in 1960 through to Variety Shows. Unfortunately TV was the death knell for variety but he continued as an acrobat abroad until his retirement. It was nostalgic recalling the catch phrases of old comedians much loved in their time. Now 88 years of age Mr Broadfield finished by balancing on a pole which had everyone on the edge of their seats ready to catch him.

Pauline Handley had been busy arranging the new programme of speakers for 2017/18 including “Humour in Retirement”, Ned Williams “King of Showmen”, a Great Australian Adventure, Walking in Wenslydale, the Life of a Ghost, St Andrews singers and Dudley South MP Mike Wood. Spaces are still available on a coach outing to the National Arboretum Alrewas on Wednesday 17th May with pickups in Kingswinford and The Lodge, Dudley.

Meetings are held on the second Friday each month 12pm for 12.30pm the next being on March 10 with the Ukulele Band entertaining after the meal. Visitors would be most welcome and can attend 3 times before deciding to join. Enquiries to the secretary on 01902 372984 or email albertgriffithsme7@gmail.com