Christmas Social in Alton Village Hall
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Saturday December 4th 2021
Because of Covid limitations and restricted numbers allowed in the hall we were unable to have our regular Christmas Concert.
However we decided to have a social evening instead with each member given only four tickets to distribute to their own family or friends. The tickets were free but we asked for donations on the evening, so we could donate the money to our usual recipient The Donna Louise children's and young people's Hospice.
The weather on the evening was very wet and windy but thankfully those with tickets still turned out. The hall had been decorated. The tables were spaced out with table cloths and lit candles on each. Coming in from the cold outside, the hall provided a very warm. atmospheric, welcoming and cosy contrast.
To restrict movement once in the hall we were not providing our usual pie and pea supper but instead guests were asked to bring their own drinks and nibbles. The tables were soon laden with all types of drinks, nibbles and all sorts and styles of drinking glasses. The general chatter in the room now made it apparent, that this was, very much, a social evening.
A varied programme of tunes and carols was very warmly received by the audience. Many different techniques were used by the ringers using the bells, chimes and mallets. Even dynamics were observed!!
Celebration' started our evening off. A fitting number to really celebrate our getting together with friends and family after all the recent restrictions.
During the interval mince pies were brought to each table. Because there was no supper to give out and all the work clearing tables and serving desserts, the ringers were able to join their table of friends to enjoy a drink and partake of the nibbles. Very relaxing for all.
Before the second half began,the raffle was drawn.
Wendy and Alan then gave a very impressive performance of ringing with two bells in each hand. The audience really appreciated the skill and dexterity involved.
During the evening, Peter read out a poem he had written entitled 'Bells or Bells?-- And Belles' and Sarah read the words from the carol 'In the Bleak Midwinter' before it was played by the ringers.
The evening concluded with a rousing version of 'Ding Dong Merrily on High'.
Peter Walker