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St Mary’s Christmas dinner

Christmas Cracker proved to be an inspired choice of name for the dinner on Saturday, December 1, as it certainly was a cracking event! St Mary’s Church Hall could not accommodate more than 60 diners so, reluctantly, the organisers had to disappoint many members of the congregation who were keen to buy tickets.

For those fortunate enough to get their applications in early, it was a memorable evening. A team from the social committee had transformed the hall into a visual delight of reds, greens and gold and a party atmosphere soon developed as David and Jenny Dance served welcoming glasses of “bubbly”, crackers were pulled, paper hats donned and excruciating mottoes exchanged.

One small mishap caused momentary concern when, unable to cope with the weight of heavy garments on a bitterly cold night, the coat stands collapsed. That problem resolved, MC Malcolm Lawther called upon the vicar to say grace. Thanks to excellent service by the volunteer waitresses, in no time everyone was enjoying the first course, a delicious spinach roulade made by Gilda Everson and Lucy Piercy. Many congratulations are owed to cooks Kathie Burgess and Rosemarie Henson who produced the main course of succulent roast pork and apple sauce served with stuffing balls, croquette potatoes and mixed vegetables (accompanied by a choice of fine red or white wine).

In the short interval that followed, diners were treated to an unusual pantomime performance of Cinderella by the St Mary’s Players. A more unlikely leading lady it would have been hard to find but “she”, played by a beautifully coiffured Mike Henson, managed to capture the heart of the handsome Prince Charming, none other than our vicar Russell Dewhurst. John Baxter, just returned from leading the pilgrimage to Israel, only barely managed to suppress his laughter as he narrated the story. Other parts were played by Bill Rackham, a convincing Ugly Sister (sorry, Bill), and Arthur Mathews, whose portrayal of a rotundish Fairy Godmother caused considerable hilarity. At the piano was the talented organ scholar Jonathan Allsop and authentic sounding “noises off” were provided by Gilda Everson.

Next, a hard decision had to be made, which to choose from the three tempting desserts on offer: Sybil Hale’s ever-popular chocolate roulade, Jenny Dance’s seasonal mincemeat strudel and cream, or a cholesterol-packed Christmas trifle. Coffee and mints completed the meal and entertainment continued with moving renditions of “Ave Maria” and “Where’er you walk” in Tim Tomkins’ rich baritone. Changing to a lighter mood, he was joined by the silver-voiced Lizzy Humphries, who led everyone in singing a selection of Christmas songs. The grand finale saw Tim teamed up with Promella Mullen to perform her witty adaptation of “Daisy Daisy”.

As well as providing an evening of feasting and fun, Christmas Cracker managed to make a very creditable surplus of nearly £170. Well done everyone!