BRIAN’S HALF CENTURY

At the September meeting of Chorley Circle Brother Brian Bunting celebrated 50 (+1) years membership of the Association. The celebration should have taken place in 2020, but was prevented by Covid regulations.

After the meeting over 50 Brothers and ladies enjoyed dinner, at which Brian was presented with his Anniversary Scroll by Immediate Past GB National President Eddie O’Donnell.

 

Brian started his working life as a plumber, but, after completing his apprenticeship, became an Insurance Agent, eventually becoming an Area Manager with Liverpool Victoria. In that position Brian and his wife, Margaret, and family, moved around the UK, living in Rochdale, Waltham Abbey, Handforth, Kilmalcolm, and Chorley.

Brian first joined Rochdale Circle in 1970, before transferring to London Charterhouse, Ringway, Chorley, and then back to Ringway when he moved house to be closer to family. He will maintain his membership of Chorley Circle as a joint member.

A lifelong supporter and season-ticket holder of Bolton Wanderers FC, Brian attends every home game with his two sons.

 

 

 

President's Sunday for Preston 144

The brothers and wives of Preston & District Circle celebrated 

President's Sunday recently with a Mass at St. Mary's, Fernyhalgh, follow by a splendid meal and social gathering at Samlesbury Hall, formerly the home of St. John Southworth, one of the Lancashire Martyrs.

 

'The Wrinklies'

Burnley Catenians Luncheon Club (aka The Wrinklies) met for the first time in almost two years at the New Waggoners.
Seventeen Brothers and Ladies enjoyed the meal and the company. Thanks to Michael Jones for organising.

 

Preston Circle 144's 'Trainspotting' Trip

Preston & District Circle's latest 'trainspotting' outing was to Skipton in North Yorkshire.

After a short train journey from Preston to Lancaster, we changed trains for a very scenic trip through the Yorkshire Dales to Skipton'

A sail on the Leeds Liverpool canal was a very attractive suggestion, so a booking was made for the 1pm sailing.

In the meantime a pint was a very welcome refreshment.

1pm and time to board our boat for an hour's sail along the canal.
The sail was accompanied by a very informative and, at times, entertaining commentary. 

One of the many boats passing through Skipton.

A local hostelry was sought for a meal and extra 'libations'!

Just time for a group picture before our return journey through the
stunning Yorkshire scenery to Preston

 

Chorley Circle's Break across the Border...

 

     

Provincial Bowls Competition

 

The Provincial 'annual' bowls competition took place at Moor Park Bowling Club, Preston, on Sunday 18th July.  This was a one-day event which proved very successful as Covid prevented any other form of competition and was organised by Bros Mike Finley and Ted Donnelly.

 

 

Teams from six Circles took part; Accrington, Burnley, Longridge, Lytham St Annes, Preston 14, Preston 144. They were divided into two mini leagues and played two matches each.  There were two greens at our disposal. The final was between Accrington and Burnley who topped their respective leagues.  Accrington won 4-1 and Brother Provincial President Bernard presented the trophy to the winners.

 

 

Preston & District Circle's Charity BBQ

Brothers, families and friends of Preston 144 Circle held a Charity BBQ to raise money for Brother President, Shaun Horsfield's chosen charity, Aid to the Church in Need (ACN).

The BBQ was held in a 'medieval' barn at Haighton Hall Farm.

The money raised is still being counted (!) and along with a number of generous donations is expected to raise about £1700 for the charity.

Thank You to all who supported it.

Brother President addresses the gathering.

The Raffle ticket sellers.

The Cooks

John, the bar-man

Mystery prizes.