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St. Alban's Hall but the old people went at their own expense. Throughout the
year special cases were sent for holidays at convalescent homes, several through
the Bermondsey Medical Mission.
We have many old people who are now able to go away every year, but we
are constantly discovering how many there are in the borough who have not had
a holiday by the sea for years, perhaps ever. It is good to feel that we can give them
this opportunity of escaping from the smoke and dreariness of the city and their
expression of gratitude and appreciation is sufficient reward for the efforts involved.
VISITORS
The fame of Southwark Old People's Welfare Centre has spread far and wide
and as in past years we have had a number of visitors to view the working of the
organisation. Among official bodies whom we have welcomed were the Battersea
Old People's Welfare Committee, represented by the Mayor and several of its
members, and also the Mayor of Lewisham and members of the Council. Other
visitors included groups of students from Pakistan. U.S.A. and Malta: also from
University College. London, the London School of Economics and the Mary Ward
Settlement. Our French friends from Courbevoie, Southwark's twin town, made a
welcome visit to St. Alban's Hall, and showed great interest in our schemes for the
happiness and well-being of our old people. In December we entertained representatives
of the Women's Institute at East Wittering as a small token of our gratitude
for their kindness to the pensioners of Southwark.
OUTINGS AND ENTERTAINMENTS
During the past year our old people have enjoyed a full programme of outings
thanks to the kindness of many friends. The Women's Institutes again entertained
parties of 35 -40 at Albourne, East Wittering and Plaxtol, and we would express
deep gratitude for their unfailing kindness and hospitality. The Lions Club of
London South organised two outings to Southsea and gave their guests a wonderful
time. We are indeed grateful for their generosity. In addition we joined the National
Federation of Old Age Pensioners in expeditions to Hastings and Margate. An
outing of special interest was the trip to Cadbury's works at Bournevilie. Our last
excursion was in September to see the lights at Southend.
On Wednesday evening there has been the usuai series of entertainments
organised by Mr. Richardson. After Old Time Dancing, still directed by Miss
Hartley and always a prime favourite, there have been whist drives, bingo drives,
alternating with dancing displays by children, concert parties, a play presented
by Mrs. James and a visit to Duthy Hall to plays given by the St. Christopher
Players.
CHRISTMAS ACTIVITIES
The Annua! Christmas Dinner was held on Wednesday, 18th December, and
was much enjoyed by hundreds of old people in the restaurant luncheon clubs
and in their own homes served by the Meals-on-Wheels service. There was also a
party of specially invited guests at St. Alban's Hall, including members of the
Borough Council, who were welcomed by Mrs. Campbell, the Deputy Organising
Secretary. Councillor Knight paid tribute to the generosity of the Southwark Rotary