With the village hall already decorated for Christmas we welcomed more than 50 members for our annual seasonal lunch. Everyone enjoyed a glass of wine or fruit juice as they settled themselves at the festive tables complete with beautiful centre pieces made by committee member Carol Hampshire.

Once Chairman Sybil Saunders had welcomed members and guests a lunch of "Phyllis' Special Pork", a vegetable medley and minted new potatoes was served. Judging by the empty plates this was really enjoyed by everyone – however there was more to come as a choice of 5 splendid deserts followed!

After the meal and a short break when the raffle, with special prizes, was drawn it was time for a bit of glamour to come to Arthritis Care. "Kaleidoscope" were our entertainers for the afternoon – Gillian Phelps and Kay Williams in beautiful silver cocktail dresses – began their programme with some festive songs before launching into a lively medley of West End Musicals including Cabaret, My Fair Lady, The Sound of Music and Oliver.

Now we all know that one should never volunteer but 2 of the men in our audience were not put off as Derek and Roger were persuaded to join in with Copacabana much to the amusement and enjoyment of the rest of us. Not to be outdone a number of ladies then joined them for a very hectic version of Time Walk and then the dancehall favourites YMCA, Hokey Kokey and Knees Up Mother Brown– there may have been a few sore limbs the next day.

Looking around the hall it was obvious that everyone had enjoyed this lively duo and even if they could not get up, had joined in the singing.

Before we settled down for a final cup of tea, Sybil presented Phyllis and Sheila with a plant in thanks for the food and there was also a gift for new caretaker Becky and her small son.

The Committee would like to wish all members a Happy Christmas and good wishes for the New Year. Our next meeting is Jan 6th when Karen Lewis will be showing us some "Gentle Chair Activity"