This is the first time we have had the Avalons at the Flower of Kent but it will not be the last. What a great evening. Sixty one Oddfellows and friends came to The Evening with the Avalons. To make it special, two couples were celebrating their wedding anniversary one for 40 years and one for 50 years. Both had their photos taken and will receive a framed photo in the next few days. Both couples got up for the anniversary waltz.

It was nice to see Oddfellows from Sunday-nighters. Don and Melanie, The Avalons, played music mainly from the 60's, 70's and 80's but when someone requested a St Bernards' Waltz the floor filled, Tom Tennick was unsure of the steps, so Melanie came off the stage and showed him the steps, when it came to the spin in Waltz hold, he spun her round so many time she has to catch her balance before returning to playing the organ. This dance caused a sing-song as they went into a medley of Daisy Daisy plus many other old time classics. Following this, in memory of the Burns Night earlier in the year, they asked for the Gay Gordons. As the Avalons play for dance groups there was no problem in playing requests as they carry a lot of sheet music.

One couple was heard to say that if they had known the Avalons were so good they would have brought all of their friends. It was nice that they did not play their music too loud, it was loud enough but still allowed those not dancing to talk and sing to the old songs. As it was there were Oddfellows from the Flower of Kent including some we do not see often, plus Lord Homesdale and Good Intent.

Catering was done by Linda Knapp, Pam and Colin Magee, the bar was run by Fred Breed, glasses collected by Bradley Magee helped by his friend Donna a friend from College. The raffle was run very late, think we were all enjoying ourselves so much we forgot about it. The Avalons helped to draw the raffle by drawing the numbers and allowing Stephen Howden to read out the numbers on their sound system. All were thanked and wished a safe journey home by the Noble Grand Stephen Howden.

Finally at the end of the evening many stayed behind to help clear the tables and chairs. During the evening party goers had their photos taken, these will be printed in the next few days and handed out free of charge. Maybe Rita Wetherilt will be kind enough to help deliver the photos of those who attend the Good Intent.