On Monday 17th December 2007, over 30 members of the Grange Players invaded The Dilke in Walsall for their annual Christmas get together. Although it was a chilly evening, the temperature and atmosphere inside was warm and convivial and on arrival at the restaurant, friends greeted each other with merry mirth, exchanging Christmas cards and festive kisses. 

After drinks in the bar area, we made our way to our tables and began by pulling the crackers, donning the ubiquitous party hats and reciting those awful jokes.  A great ice-breaker turned out to be the 'trick balloons' which when inflated and then released, emitted the most raucous sounds.  (This activity carried on for most of the party!)

Jolly banter, abundant quaffing and gastronomic guzzling ensued throughout and the evening concluded with a short speech from our Chairman, John Lomas.  He thanked Mal Smith for organizing the celebration and wished the Grange continued success for the future. 

It was a most enjoyable evening out and a good time was had by all.    E.M.S.

To enlarge thumbnail pictures, please click them.

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Jake and Helen Viles having fun with those noisy balloons


Watch out, Geoff, that Ian can be a real Jekyll & Hyde!

Geoff Hitchcott and Paul Viles getting into the party spirit!

Pause for thought, waiting for the next course


“Queen” Margaret Wills presiding over her court of older members


Chris Whistance and Joe & Lynne Young were obviously having a good time.

Chris Venables in light-hearted mood next to daughter-in-law Julie.  Perhaps the elders at the table behind them are still waiting for the next course!.


Gary Pritchard deep in conversation with Jessica Bennett, Maurice Tildesley (swatting a fly?), Mal Smith & Julie Lomas apparently propping each other up, with Adrian Venables looking a little surprised - and Chris Waters collecting the cash!