Golden Jubilee sparks rollercoaster of recollections

A fanfare by Verwood Concert Brass training band heralded the opening of an exhibition at Verwood Memorial Hall commemorating the hall’s golden jubilee on 9 May.

Earlier in the day, a celebration by seventy invited guests was held in a similar format to that in 1959 when the hall was first opened - the result of twenty-six years of fundraising, with a war in between.

A power-point presentation, old photographs and scenes from youth club pantomimes in the 1960s evoked some strong memories for some of those attending.  A number of guests had links with 1959, including some who helped with the building of the hall and descendants of people involved at the time. 

Jim Laird of Harley and Laird, Fred Bailey of Baileys Electrical and Stan Prince and John Baker who amongst other things helped dig the cesspit after a day’s work.   Alan Harley represented his father, Alf and Norma Snow and David Cox represented their father Ted Cox, chairman of the Management Committee in 1959 until the early 1980s.  A few had been unable to make it due to ill-health. 

One, who had travelled from Blandford, said, “It was a rollercoaster of recollections and of meeting old friends and acquaintances from up to fifty years ago.  It was the first time I had been to the hall for at least thirty years.  Also, somewhat bizarrely, I found myself in a serious discussion with present-day officials about the cesspit!”

The exhibition featured displays of past times and there were promotions by current users, as well as entertainment including the training band, a violin and piano duet by Malcolm Evans and Matt Timmins, afternoon concerts and dance and drama.  The evening was rounded off with an organ concert. 

A wonderful floral display was provided by the Verwood Flower Club. 

Vice chair of the memorial hall committee, Angela Daymond said, “It was a true village event much enjoyed by those who came.

“Improvements to the hall will continue with the next major project being a new porch.  Anyone wishing to help fundraise for this project should contact me on 01202 822549.”