Our 2018 barbecue, a ‘thank you’ to members for their ongoing support, again took place in the manicured gardens of Crouches Farmhouse. Lush greenery and abundant shade, supplemented by several gazebos (this year to ward off sun, not rain), allowed us to relax despite the heat and socialise to the full, with over 50 attendees including several new members.
Free drinks were included in the modest ticket price, and guests were welcomed with bubbly (pink or white – iced if preferred), with wine, beer, juice and soft drink options. The eagerly anticipated fayre of bangers and burgers, done to a turn by Martin Warwick, ably assisted by our host David Beedle, were accompanied by rolls and salads provided by the committee and members; strawberries, meringues and cream finished things off beautifully.
Conversation flowed easily, with memories of our very successful May visit to Dourdan mingling with anticipation of our October ‘meet up’ with our French friends in Tunbridge Wells. The amazing weather, and its impact on our gardens, competed for attention with local news of housing and airport expansion.
In her welcome speech our chairman Wendy Barron thanked everyone for coming, the committee for their hard work and especially our kind hosts David & Patsy for yet again allowing us to enjoy our event in their beautiful garden, and for all their efforts in setting up the event. Wendy also outlined plans for the Tunbridge Wells visit and reminded members to book their accommodation.
At around 3.30pm guests started to wend their way home, mostly on foot. They seem to have enjoyed themselves, judging from the many promises to ‘see you next year’.