As we entered the main room we soon became aware of lovely music played by Fiona Hosford on the Harp. Fiona played until the meal was over. At the start of the evening canopies where available from the waiters and waitresses. Once all had arrived Sister N Chandler asked for all to be seated. The first course was either Potato and Leak Soup in a Bread Basket or a Trio of Salmon. This was followed by a Bastion of Lamb with Vegetables, suite was either an American Style Vanilla Cheesecake or a generous helping of Cheese and Biscuits. All washed down by a bottle each per table of Blossom Hill Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, Still and Sparking water.

The Chairperson was Sister Nellie Chandler who introduced all of the speakers. First speaker was Brother Keith Adamson who started with an introduction then a couple of jokes followed by information on who had been Oddfellow in the Past, like Wyatt Earp and many Kings of Europe during the Nineteenth Century on behalf of Manchester Unity. Brother Chis Bellis Prov GM gave the response on behalf of North West Kent District. The toast was to the guest of honour Brother Barry Quinton. On the tables there were copies of information about “Dreams Come True” which you can see the great work they do by visiting their website, at www.dctc.org.uk. Which brings joy to terminally and seriously ill children, one example being Harrison Stedman who met Lewis Hamilton the F1 World Champion

Music from Chris Till followed the speeches. Chris is a singer accompanied by a sound system, at first he sang songs made famous by Nat King Cole Michael Buble and Dean Martin for which couples danced Ballroom. Later the tempo increased and the floor filled with dancers to a disco tempo playing such songs a Spirit in the Sky which caused most to sing along. Disco was very popular. There was a comprehensive raffle plus an extra game of Heads and Tails which raised a further £48. The music ended at eleven fifteen and all agreed it had been a very good night. There was a good attendance from the St Mary Cray and Dartford District, filling three tables including the President of the Southern Region Brother Graham Elliott and our IMPGM Sister Rita Wetherilt.