Christmas Evening

Prior Rick Hudson arose from a desk adorned with a Christmas tree and welcomed members and a guest. After a few notices, Scribe Bro George Parrott then acted as Master of Ceremonies introducing several members in turn. The Christmas Evening is by tradition an evening when members can give a short presentation to suit the season.

First up was Bro George himself giving a humorous version of the “Twelve Days of Christmas.” The turkey, so welcome on day one, was well past its best by day five and dreaded by day eleven. With the turkey options exhausted, the family were relieved to receive fish and chips on the twelfth day of Christmas.

Maureen Bell first expressed her amazement that the period of post war austerity she remembers as a child is now being taught in school as “history”. She remembers well her stuffed lamb toy called Larry which achieved fame as a regular player in the nativity plays at school. In her eyes it outshone and outlasted her pretty sister, chosen to be an angel in a dress made from parachute silk. Larry’s 15 year career was achieved by being passed down through Maureen’s siblings until, so dirty and broken, health and hygiene considerations consigned him to landfill. Poor Larry.

Bro Martin Wallace called for help. He told, with the help of pictures, the fascinating history of the Alexandra Hotel, but wants to know more. He is particularly interested in stories about the people involved. What stories could the staff tell? Which prominent people visited? Were people uplifted by the sunrises over the sea? What business deals were done in the games room? What romantic liaisons took place under the potted palms in the lounge? If you have a story to tell, why not get in touch using the “Contact Us” page on the society’s website www.bridaugustinians.org.uk.

Chris Gatenby then recited two poems, one humorous and one more thoughtful. Let’s stick with the humorous, and for that Pam Ayers won’t fail you. On this occasion the poetess wondered, “Did I turn off my tongs?” For Pam Ayers, worrying of the possible consequences, spoilt her birthday treat away with her husband. Although a story invented for the humour, Chris thought it did reflect one result of aging, forgetfulness and worrying about it.

Finally the Prior Rick Hudson, responding to requests he had received, showed a video and photographs of the demolition on Hilderthorpe Road the previous Tuesday. In view of the season this could have been titled, “Out with the Old”. He also showed a map of Bridlington Quay dated 1828 to show where Dorothy Richardson (the subject of a talk two weeks before) indicated she stayed on a map she had sketched.

The vote of thanks to all contributors was given by Sub Prior Bro Garry Sunley. He thanked the members who spoke for their varied and interesting contributions, and finished with a pun worthy of any Christmas cracker – but not fit to be repeated here!

The evening continued with a natter over drinks and mince pies. Members wish readers a Merry Christmas and a Happy, Safe, and Prosperous New Year.