Although the attendance at the event was disappointing, £130 was taken, and the appreciative group of ladies thoroughly enjoyed watching the skills of both Ann and Nicola. When all the arrangements were displayed at the end, which included one done by Ann's granddaughter Sydney, the theme was the birth of Jesus, through his life to his death on the cross and his now being the light of the world.
When the hall lights were switched off, emphasising the lights in the decorations, Eva Rich sang a verse of Silent Night. Chairperson, Shelagh Griffin, expressed the sincere thanks of the branch to Ann and Nicola for all their time and effort, not only that evening, but also in the preparation, with special thanks to Winifred Hewlings, Brenda Harris and Elly Craig for their hard work and help in the kitchen and to Rev. Nanette Lewis Head and the St. Johns Church members for the use of the hall.
She also thanked the ladies who had supported the event and branch secretary, Eva Rich accompanied by guide dog Angie, presented Ann with a small gift and said how much Angie had appreciated the Christmas tree which appeared to have been specially decorated for her with doggie treats.
The branch also wish to thank Mr. John Butland for kindly donating the milk.
The raffle was then drawn, which included four of the fresh flower arrangements, the winners being: Ruth Rolfe (two), Elsie Brumby, Gwen Nicholas, Gillian Morgan, Marie Slack, Meryl Slack, Gwyneth John.
The branch only has one event left for 2003 - a stall at the St. Nicholas Fayre on Saundersfoot Harbour this coming weekend. However, they would like to remind everyone to save their used postage stamps and to contact the secretary, Eva Rich, on 812868 for a special envelope should anyone have a redundant mobile phone which would raise £3.50 for GDBA.
The branch is desperately looking for more members and helpers so that they can continue fund-raising on the same level in the future as has been the custom over the last 28 years. They all join in wishing all supporters, and especially friends and helpers a very happy Christmas and a healthy and peaceful 2004.