MEMBERS of the Tuesday Lunch Club, held monthly at the Waie Inn, Zeal Monachorum, got the Christmas festivities off to a great start when they held their Christmas meal on November 22.

Everyone enjoyed a delicious roast turkey meal, followed by a selection of sweets including traditional Christmas pudding (some even had seconds!).

Hostess, Jean Burrow also ran a lucky ticket draw, the lucky tickets being found under the wine glasses. The main draw, where everyone took along a draw prize, was in aid of the Children’s Hospice South West at Little Bridge House, Fremington, a really good cause.

The amount raised for the draw was £214 and Jean thanked everyone for their support and prizes.

Jean also presented three bottles to Arthur Turner as a Thank You for running the draws, and to his three lady helpers who tore the tickets up.

Arthur in return presented Jean with a voucher for all her kindness shown at the fortnightly lunches, and everyone contributed to a collection for the staff for their excellent service throughout the year, which amounted to £238.

Entertainment came from the Mariners Away, from South Zeal and area, who sang a number of Sea Shanties, many featuring local locations, and other popular songs, which brought back many memories. They included What Shall we do with a Drunken Sailor and Grandfathers Clock.

Jean thanked all the men and everyone agreed that their singing was most enjoyable and a great way to end the Christmas lunch.

It was a truly wonderful event to mark the start of the Christmas festivities.

Alan Quick