Invitation Dance
One hundred persons accepted the Committee's invitation to attend the dance in the Women's Institute Hall on leap year night.
The whole programme of dances was greatly enjoyed, and the Gaiety Dance Band from Hoddesdon supplied the music.
The refreshments were provided by Mr Mead, and gave entire satisfaction.
Leap Year Dance
There were 110 dancers present at the leap year invitation dance on Wednesday evening, which took place in the Benson Hall.
The whole of the necessary arrangements were made entirely by Mrs Philpott, who is to be congratulated on the success achieved. Mrs Philpott not only issued the invitations, but also sold the admission tickets, besides contributing in no small way to the excellent assortment of refreshments which were served during the evening.
Refreshments were also given and served by Mrs Bishop, Mrs McGuinness, Mrs Blakiston, Mrs Plumb, Mrs W. Watson, Miss Mulvany and Miss Spencer. The duties of M.C. were undertaken by Mr Blakiston, who spared no pains to add merriment to the evening's enjoyment.
A special feature was the lighting effects, which were greatly admired by the energetic company present. The music, which added still greater pleasure to the proceedings, was supplied by the "Mavis" Dance Band, the members of which did their utmost to provide a programme to meet with the popularity of all. Their programme was excellent.
A Spot Dance Competition was won by Miss Philpott and Mr B. Howard, the former receiving a pound of chocolates for a prize and her partner a box of cigarettes. A Novelty Dance was also greatly enjoyed.
Mrs Whitehouse, of Sunny Hill, kindly lent her piano, and Mr W. Budd acted as door-keeper throughout the evening.
The proceeds, which were for the purpose of installing new electric light wiring in the hall, were very satisfactory, but the actual amount taken is not yet known.
It was generally agreed that this was one of the jolliest dances ever held in Buntingford.
Old Boys' Club
While rain descended in torrents on Saturday evening last, a fine goose was drawing dancers to the Benson Hall for an evening's dancing and to participate in the chance to secure the fine bird for a Christmas dinner.
The event, which was in aid of the Old Boys' Club, was most enjoyable, and what gave the dance that atmosphere of Yuletide was the decorations in the hall; these looked remarkably well, holly, ivy and other evergreens being lavishly displayed.
Mr Blakiston again won admiration as M.C., and so did the goose, which had been offered as a lucky ticket prize, and which went to Mr T. Hummerstone, of Westmill.
The Mavis Dance Band played some spirited selections, and one of the members, Mr Whitehouse, secured the bottle of port which was raffled for during an interval.
Christmas Attractions
The Old Boys' Club are holding another dance tomorrow (Saturday) evening at the Benson Hall, and this should be well attended.
The Hall will be decorated for the occasion, the Mavis Dance Band will be in attendance, and a goose (on view in Mr H.A. Jackson's window) wil be awarded to the holder of the lucky ticket. Tickets are 1/6 each.
- Well worth attending should be the shows to be given at the Benson Hall next week by the Brett Repertory Company, which is guaranteed the finest company now touring.
Commencing on Monday night, there will be an entirely different programme on each occasion. The performances will commence at 7.30 each evening.
Prices of admission, etc., are to be found on the posters exhibited in the town.
Buckland
Whist Drive and Dance
A whist drive and dance was held in the School on Friday, December 14, in aid of a children's treat. The attendance was small, no doubt owing to the very sharp frost.
The winners of prizes for whist were as follows:
Ladies - 1 Mrs R. Tott, 2 Mr F. Stoten (playing as lady);
Gents: 1 Mr E. Bruce, 2 Mr F. Stoten; booby, Miss N. Carter.
The prizes were presented by Miss F. Pigg. Fancy dress for the dance was optional, and prizes were offered for this. Miss F. Pigg and Miss P. Morris kindly judged the competitors.
The adult's prize was tken by Mrs Dommett, as Father Christmas, who caused much amusement.
The children's prizes were gained as follows: 1 Frances Cole (Ace of Hearts), 2 Joan Dommett (Early Victorian Lady), 3 Daisy Clayton (Knight).
A large iced cake was competed for, the winner being Mr Hudgell, of the Mavis Dance Band.
Excellent refreshments were served by members of the W.I. Committee, and the Mavis Dance Band played splendidly. A jolly evening ended with the National Anthem.
The teachers wish to thank all those who contributed in any way to the evening's enjoyment.
Bowls Club
Fete Marred by Rain
Rain marred the fete organised for Bank Holiday by the Buntingford Bowls Club.
Early in the mrning the committee and stallholders were making extensive preparations for an open-air event at Layston Court, kindly placed at the disposal of the Club by Miss Woods, when the rain commenced.
It was not until the early afternoon that it was found necessary to abandon the idea of holding the event outside, so the stalls, &c., were transferred to the Women's Institute Hall, and everyone carried on as well as possible under the trying circumstances.
The concerts held in the hall during the evening were a great success, and there were excellent audiences.
Later in the evening there was a dance, at which a very large number was present. Barratt's Band from London provided the music, and the afternoon's sorrows were turned into an evening of complete enjoyment.
Town Silver Band
The Town Band took the opportunity of holding a dance when holiday-makers to the town would be able to contribute to their funds by purchasing tickets, and as a result a large number was present at the Benson Hall on Saturday evening.
The Band provided their own dance music, and continuous enjoyment lasted for several hours.
To raise further funds, the Band are holding a garden fete on August 27th, and further particulars will be announced in due course.
It is hoped that fine weather will prevail on this occasion and that many will be present to contribute to the funds.
Horticultural Society
Open-Air Whist Drive and Dance
Fairyland Scene at West View
The spell which has cast itself on any garden function arranged at West View during recent years has at last been broken, and for a pleasant change fine weather prevailed for a Whist Drive and Dance held in the pretty grounds, by kind permission of Mrs Wyman, on Wednesday evening last.
Early in the afternoon there was a slight shower, but the weather turned out fine later.
There was not such a large company present as was expected, due perhaps to the harvest operations; sixteen tables were occupied for whist, and several persons came in later for the dancing.
The Illuminations
By the time the whist had finished, the grounds had quite a fairyland resemblance; some 600-700 fairy lights and Chinese lanterns of various colours casting a beautiful glow over the lawns and the flower-beds. It was a charming sight.
The Standon Orchestra provided an excellent programme of dance music, and Mr Little (who presided at the piano) won admiration for the way he filled the post of pianist. The other members of the orchestra were Mr A.H. Hedges, Mr Hunter and Mr G. Wilmont, who also acted very efficiently.
Thanks
The Committee desire (through the medium of the Buntingford "Gazette") to thank Mrs Wyman for so kindly placing her grounds at the disposal of the Society.
Best thanks are also due to Capt. and Mrs Denny, of Little Court, and Miss Lushington, for prizes; to Mrs E.G. Thody and Miss Thody for managing the refreshments; to Mr H. Clarke, who was a very efficient M.C.; Mr C. Miles and Mr E.C. Clarke, gate stewards; Mrs Stapley for the use of piano; Mr A.G. Day and Mr B.E. Thody for arrangements; Mr E.J. Crane, carting; Mr J. Holmes and the Ex-Service Men's Club, use of tables and chairs; Mrs Coates, gift of cakes; and to the Hon. Sec. (Mr E.G. Thody) for the illuminators. Mr A. Coxall also lent valuable assitance.
The Prizes
Prizes for whist were won by the following:
Ladies - 1 Miss Cornwell 160, 2 Miss Lushington 157, 3 Mrs Day 156.
Gents - 1 Mr Nash 165, 2 Mr S. Howlett 162, 3 Mr H. Cutts 157.
Whist Drive
Twenty-five tables were occupied at a whist drive held at the Benson Hall on Wednesday evening in last week in aid of the Town Football Club funds.
Other persons came in later for dancing, and altogether a very pleasant evening was spent by all.
Mr H. Clark was M.C. for whist, and prizes were won by the following:
Ladies - 1 Miss Cannon, 2 Mrs Cornwell, 3 Mr Hatchett (playing as lady).
Gents - 1 Mr C. Smith, 2 Mr Hutchins, 3 Mr A Dray.
Highest score first-half - Mr E.E. Dennis (94).
Lucky ticket - Mr W.T. Budd.
For the dancing which followed, Mr Leslie Smith was an efficiant M.C.
The music was supplied by the Standon Orchestra, and gave every satisfaction.
Buntingford Town Band
Whist Drive and Dance
A whist drive and dance, in aid of the Buntingford Town Silver Band funds, was held at the Benson Hall on Wednesday evening last.
Sixteen tables were in use for whist, Mr T. Wornham officiating as M.C.
Scoring was not very high. Mrs B.E. Thody took first lady's prize - Half a tea set - with a score of 172. The second prize, a pretty floating bowl, was won by Miss Norman, Mr W. Watson (playing as lady) securing third prize - a pair of glass candlesticks.
In the gents section, Mr H. Howard was first, winning half-dozen stainless steel knives. Mr Budd took second prize (a tobacco jar), and Mr Leslie Smith third - a hot water bottle.
The Rev. Fr. Morgan gave a beaded girdle as a lucky number prize, which was won by Mrs Bishop.
The prizes were presented by Miss Lushington, who made a few well-chosen remarks.
Later dancing was indulged in till midnight - the music being supplied by members of the Town Band.
Cards and Dancing
Ten prizes for whist in well-warmed and commodious surroundings, and two hours' dancing on the best floor in the neighbourhood, is good value for 1/6! And this may be obtained at the Whist Drive and Dance next Wednesday, February 2nd, at the Benson Hall, Buntingford.
Tickets may be had from Mr Castle, Mrs Coates, Mr Fry, Mrs Leslie, Miss Marriage (Aspenden), Mr Martin (Wyddiall), Mrs Philpott and others.
Tickets bought before the day carry a chance of a "Lucky Prize." Those wanting Whist or Dance only can pay 1/0 at the door.
Play will start at 7.30 sharp in order to ensure two hours' dancing, and patrons are respectfully asked to be punctual.
Whist Drive And Dance
The Town Silver Band made a profit of £3 from the Whist Drive and Dance organised by the committee, and held at the George Hotel Assembly Room on Friday evening last.
There was an excellent company present, 20 tables being in use for whist. Other persons came in later for dancing, the room being crowded.
At midnight "Auld Lang Syne" was heartily sung, the company joining hands.
The successful whist players were:
Ladies - 1, Miss Hatchett; 2, Mr W. Budd (playing as lady); 3, Miss M. Cornwell.
Gents - 1, Mr Gilbey; 2, Mr C. Tottman; 3, Mr W. Watson.
Mr T. Wornham was an efficient M.C. for both whist and dancing.
The whist prizes were vouchers for goods to be purchased in the town.
The event was most successful, everyone having a jolly good time.
Music for dancing was supplied by Mrs Stapley (piano) and the Town Silver Band.
Correspondence
To the Editor, Buntingford Gazette
Dear Sir,
Through the medium of the Buntingford Gazette, I wish to thank all those who so kindly helped to make the Buntingford Nursing Fund whist drive and dance such a success, either by the gift of prizes, money towards expenses, cakes and other refreshments, and last but not least, to those who gave personal service special thanks are due, and to the Band and Mr Bishop who kindly relieved them.
I am pleased to tell you I have handed £8 8s. to the Treasurer as the result, after all expenses have been paid.
I much regretted the absence, through illness, of about 12 regular patrons, wishing them a speedy recovery.
Believe me, yours truly,
G. Lushington.
Absesdene, February 27th, 1927.
Whist
The Town Band held another successful whist drive on Saturday last, when prizes were won by:
Ladies - 1, Miss D. Wornham; 2, Mr E. Scrivener (playing as lady).
Gents - 1, Mr Hurry; 2, Mr W. Cooze.
The spot dance continues to prove popular, and this week's winners were: Miss D. Bush and Mr H. Handy.
There was a good company present, and dancing to the music of the band was much enjoyed. Mrs Nash also assisted at the piano.
Mr Wornham was M.C. for both whist and dancing.
Whist
Organised by the Buntingford Town Silver Band, a successful whist drive was held at the Assembly Room, the George Hotel, on Saturday evening last.
Mr T. Wornham was M.C., and prizes were won by the following:
Ladies - 1 Mr A. Postle, 2 Mr H. Handy (both playing as lady).
Gents - 1 Mr E. Hurry, 2 Mr S. Saunders.
A spot dance competition was won by Miss Cook and Mr Ivan Sharp.
Buntingford Nursing Fund
Whist Drive and Dance
Miss Lushington and her willing helpers are to be heartily congratulated upon the complete success of her annual whist drive and dance held on Wednesday evening in the Benson Hall.
There was a large gathering, especially for the dancing.
The evening commenced with a whist drive, prizes for which had been kindly given by Lady Heaton-Ellis, Mrs H.C. Marshall, Mrs H.H. Williams, Mrs Mevett, Mrs Wyman, Miss Lushington, Dr and Mrs R.W. Fell, and Rev. A.L. Panchaud.
Twenty-five tables were occupied, and the prizes were presented by Miss Lushington to the following:
Ladies - 1, Mrs A. Clark (biscuit barrel); 2, Miss W. Walsingham (half tea service); 3, Mrs Wallis (tea cosy); lowest score - Mrs Geaves.
Gents - 1, Mr H. Hatchett (mirror); 2, Mr Coxall (shaving mirror); 3, Mr Mannox (pictures); lowest score - Mr Bishop.
A lucky chair prize went to Mrs Bennett, and the lucky ticket prize to Mr J. Bishop.
The Buntingford Town Band was in attendance, and dancing was indulged in until midnight, the excellent programme being enjoyed to the full.
Mr A.C. Bartlett for whist, and Mr L. Smith for dancing, were the two efficient M.C's.
Whist
In response to several requests, the Town Silver Band held another Whist Drive at the George Hotel on Saturday evening.
There was a good company present and prizes, which were vouchers for goods to be purchased in the town, were won by the following:
Ladies - 1, Miss Marshall; 2, Miss E. Cutts.
Gents - 1, Mr H. Pledger; 2, Mr S. Pledger.
A Waltz competition was won by Mr A.B. Wallis and Miss G. Mean, while a Fox-trot competition was won by Mr J. Bishop and partner.
An excellent programme of music was provided by the Band, assisted by Mr J. Bishop (piano).
Mr Henry Clark for whist and Mr A.B. Wallis for dancing were the two efficient M.C.'s.
The judging of the dancing competitions was kindly undertaken by Mr H.M. Blakiston.
Benson Hall
Ninety-four sat down to whist at the Benson Hall last Wednesday, and over a hundred took part in the dancing.
Ten prizes were advertised for the drive, and eleven were awarded - the extra one being a dozen eggs for the "Lucky Chair," which was occupied by Mr H. Clark.
The other prizes were won by the following:
Top score (large iced cake), Mr T.H. Holden.
Ladies' prizes: 1st (set of tea knives), Mrs Case; 2nd (cushion cover) Miss Margery Cornwell; 3rd (silk tea cosy) Miss Mabel Cornwell; lowest score (chocolate babies) Mrs Leslie.
Men's prizes: 1st (hair brushes in case) Mr E. Ward; 2nd (woolly scarf) Mr E. Bruce; 3rd (fifty cigarettes) Mr J. Moule; lowest score (chocolate wireless set) Mr J. Wornham.
Lucky ticket (5/-) Mr H. Hatchett.
The prizes were presented by Mrs Gabbitas, Mrs Leslie, Miss Marriage, Miss Morgan, Mrs Philpott, and others.
Refreshments were given by Mrs Bennett, Mrs Blakiston, Mrs Coates, Mrs Gabbitas, Mrs Game, Mrs Leslie, Miss Lushington, Miss Morgan, Mrs Plumb, and Miss D. Spencer, most of whom worked indefatigately in serving the same.
The M.C.'s were Mr Clarke for the whist and Mr Blakiston for the dancing. It was largely due to the tactful methods of the former that the drive was finished in time for two hours' dancing.
Miss Blakiston was in the pay box; and Messrs. Blakiston, jun., Castle and Rowley acted as Stewards. The Hall was prepared and clearned by Messrs. Blakiston, jun., and Castle.
Music for the dancing was supplied by the "Standon Orchestra," and a highly successful and enjoyable evening terminated at midnight.
It is hoped that Miss Lushington's Whist Drive and Dance for the Nursing Fund on the 16th will also be well patronised.
Whist
There was a good gathering at the Assembly Rooms, the George Hotel, on Saturday evening, January 22nd, on the occasion of a whist drive and dance, organised by the Town Silver Band.
Mr T. Wornham was M.C. for both whist and dancing, and the prizes, which were vouchers for goods to be purchased in the town, were won by the following:
Ladies - 1, Mr H. Handy (playing as lady); 2, Miss Marshall.
Gents - 1, Mr S. Pledger; 2, Mr B. Dowler.
A spot dance prize was won by Mr Roberts and Mrs Case.
Cottered
Dance
To provide for the expenses of the schoolchildren taking part in the forthcoming Folk Dance competition at Ware, there was a dance at the Rectory on Wednesday in last week.
This was organised by Miss Wilderspin and Miss Pugh, while Mrs Beadle was in charge of the refreshments.
There was a good attendance, Mr Beadle was M.C., Mrs Hull pianist, and a very enjoyable evening was spent. A net profit of £2 18s. 6d. was obtained.