Gosport Branch Annual Widows’ Christmas Lunch

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The Gosport Branch of the Submariners Association recently held its Annual Widows’ Christmas Lunch at The Crofton Pub, Stubbington.

Fourteen of the Branch Widows were wined and dined at no cost to themselves, thanks to funds raised throughout the year via raffles, donations, and other contributions. They were joined by Branch Members, their wives, and guests, and all enjoyed an excellent three‑course Christmas meal accompanied by wine, tea, and coffee.

This year we were honoured by the presence of Councillor Kirsten Bradley, the Worshipful Mayor of Gosport, who has graciously supported the Branch at various functions during the year.

Musical entertainment was provided by Shep Woolley on acoustic guitar, accompanied by his fiddle‑playing oppo Tim, with a lively selection of shanties and hits from the 1950s and 1960s. In addition, Colin Mould, the Branch and National Standard Bearer, delighted everyone with a solo rendition of the very amusing A Dursley Carol.

Branch President Captain Chris Groves RN (Retired) gave a short speech thanking all for their support of the function, and expressed particular appreciation to Bertie Brothers, Branch Widows’ Representative, for organising the event with the support of his wife Sue. He also led the singing of Happy Birthday for Sarah Bassett, our oldest Widow, who will reach the grand age of 100 on Boxing Day.

Madam Mayor thanked everyone present and pledged her ongoing support of the Branch.

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Finally, outgoing Vice Chairman Pony Moore led the Loyal Toast to His Majesty the King and to Absent Friends, bringing to a close a very enjoyable Christmas Lunch.

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(Bertie Brothers Gosport Branch SA Widows’ Representative)