1st June 2023

 

Hello Everyone,

 

I hope you have all enjoyed the many Bank Holidays this month, and the Coronation itself of course. Though it was booked very well in advance of the Coronation, our lecture on 22nd May seemed very suitable, when Christopher Garibaldi spoke to us on

 

A Survey of Royal Patronage of Silver

 

It was most interesting to hear about the changes in fashion over the centuries, and the unsentimental melting down and re-fashioning in the newest style.

 

The expedition to Saltaire, on the 18th May was thoroughly enjoyed by members. It proved to be a beautiful day, and there was much to see and enjoy. Thanks to all concerned.

 

Details of the September 28th to 30th trip to the Midlands and Birmingham are also now on the website, and there are links to all the places we will be visiting. Certainly, a trip to look forward to.

 

The Arts Society AGM took place in Bristol on 24th May. It was also available on Zoom, and many joined in that way. The previous few years have been held on Zoom, and it would appear that we will be returning to that method next year in May 2024.

 

Happy news is that Directory Day will be reverting to being live, in London on Saturday March 16th at Westminster Central Hall. I know that our Programme Secretaries, who do such a balanced and comprehensive job, are very pleased by this news. At heart our Society depends on interesting and learned lectures from the accredited lecturers, and seeing them face to face gives a far more immediate impression of whom to book.

 

Our next lecture, before we break for the summer months will be given on 19th June. As previously mentioned, this will be a change from the advertised lecture by Alexandra Epps, and instead we will hear John Francis, on the subject of

 

The Lady with the Tutti Frutti Hat: Busby Berkeley, Director and Choreographer

 

The war in Ukraine continues, though now joined by the dreadful situation in Sudan. It becomes impossible to find words for the terrible conditions being endured by so many, especially in light of the recent drone attacks in daylight hours.

 

We are hoping to have our traditional New Members’ Lunch in September, immediately before our first Autumn Lecture on 18th September. This will be at Heswall Hall, more details to follow soon.

 

I cannot end this month’s letter without mentioning the splendid Service of Thanksgiving on 30th May at St Peter’s Church, Heswall for the life of John Billington. A packed Church, with inspiring music, and tributes from the family, and then a lovely reception hosted by Fenella at the family home. She and John were always such generous and welcoming hosts, on so many occasions. This, despite the sadness, was in line with all other events. Many of you were there, and will have been happy to pay your own tributes to John. He will be remembered so fondly by so many, and admired in the same measure for all his sterling works.

 

For now, let me finish by sending

 

All very best wishes,

Yvonne Woodhead