70th Anniversary

MINCE PIE NIGHT

“Mince Pie Night” is a tongue-in-cheek title for the Camera Club Christmas Social event. The title arose from an occasion some years ago when, in response to the appeal “Please bring something for the buffet”, the majority of contributors brought mince pies – so the choice at the buffet was rather limited!

These days the buffet reflects the imagination and creativity of a cadre of members who produce quite a range of epicurean delights. Kath Cooke’s, non alcoholic, fruit punch bowl has been a staple part of the buffet for years. With that problem corrected, Mince Pie Night has evolved into a very enjoyable event. It is the one club meeting of the year that does not have a pre-arranged programme and the meeting is released from the ‘tyranny of the timetable’. Members enjoy the freedom to chat with anyone about anything of interest; jovial banter blooms and a very convivial atmosphere develops – in spite of the absence of alcohol.

Naturally there is a raffle, with prizes [contributed by members] reflecting the festive season. Every year someone develops a challenging pencil and paper competition that keeps members quiet and focused for a few minutes and leads to another prize award. This time Janet Tierney, our Programme Secretary, was a clear winner.

This year there was an additional reason for celebration – the year 2007 is the 70^th anniversary of the formation of the Scunthorpe Camera Club! Kath had baked and decorated a celebration cake and Reg Henry ARPS, a member for 54 years, made the ceremonial cut.

In his closing remarks President, Roy Featherstone, said he felt that everyone had enjoyed a very convivial evening and he wanted to thank all those members who had contributed to the buffet, donated prizes and organised the competition. On behalf of the committee he wished all members a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.