Italy Star Association Reunion 6th – 9th September 2019
Italy Star Association Reunion 6th – 9th September 2019
Thirty one people, including 3 veterans, John Dennett, Barbara Vanner and Doug Weythaupt checked in on Friday 6th September for the Italy Star Reunion weekend. Members arrived from Central London, East Hants (a short hop along the coast!), East Kent and Headquarters Branches. Friendships were quickly renewed in the Guests Services area over a welcomed cup of tea/coffee prior to members checking into their accommodation, which was to be home for the next few days.
Once settled in to our accommodation, we all ventured to the restaurant and found our allotted tables ready for dinner. It was lovely to welcome relatively new members to Headquarters branch, Brian and Liz Coney to the weekend. After a hearty meal, it was “eyes down” ready for Bingo for some of the group, and yet again, we had a winner amongst our number! Then, after listening to the resident band, it was time for the entertainment Bruce Thompson, a comedian.
Saturday dawned bright and dry. After breakfast the committee and members headed over to the glass pavilion in preparation for the AGM. AGM over, members undertook a variety of activities, swimming, walks, trips into the village, Portsmouth or watching the film Bohemian Rhapsody. Some even made a brew and took advantage of the good weather and sat outside to “top up their tans” whilst putting the world to rights over their hot drink. The highlight of the evening’s entertainment was a Tom Jones impersonator, who definitely had the voice, but sadly not quite the moves!
On Sunday morning, the sun streamed through the windows, although it was just a little chilly, but by midday, it had warmed up and everyone gathered for our open air Service. We were delighted that Pat Webb flew in from the Isle of Man for the day. Our service started to the haunting sound of the bag pipes, expertly played by Andrea Bungay of The Rose and Thistle Pipe and Drum Band. The Service of Dedication and Recommitment was led once again by the East Hants Chaplin, the Rev’d Paul Miles – Knight and the Exhortation was said by our new President John Dennett. The service concluded with Amazing Grace, once again, played by Andrea. After the service had concluded, most people headed to the bar for a pre lunch drink.
Once again the afternoon was spent doing a variety of activities and some brave souls ventured to undertake archery! There is certainly no stopping some members of the Association! However, it was soon time for dinner and the evening’s entertainment.
All too quickly, the weekend had come to a close. Prior to breakfast, there was a trail of people heading to the car park, loading up their vehicles ready for a quick get away after breakfast. Final goodbyes were said at breakfast with everyone vowing to meet again in 2020.
Sheila Edwards. National Secretary