VILLAGERS in Dilton Marsh shared their memories of past activities and events in the village during an open day at Dilton Memorial Hall earlier this month.
Kathy Hutt, trustee, said, “This year is the centenary of Dilton Memorial Hall and we are planning to produce a commemorative booklet, as well as holding some celebratory events.
“The coffee morning was a great success with over 40 people there from near and far sharing their memories. We also had a great response from Facebook with people sending stories and photos, some from as far away as the USA. Those able to come on the day had fun looking at the display and putting names to faces.
“As expected, we heard about dances, discos, parties, amateur dramatics, bingo, whist drives, lunch clubs, youth clubs, pre-school and toddler groups, sports and so on.
“We were really pleased that Jackie and David Pike came along on what was the morning of their golden (50th) wedding anniversary. They were married at Holy Trinity Church, then had the reception at the Memorial Hall. Jackie’s mum, Mrs Ledbury, made the bridesmaids’ dresses and did the catering; at age 95 she still lives in the High Street.
“David said that coming to the hall was a lovely way to start their celebrations. Unfortunately there are no photos of the reception but if anyone else has any we would love to see them. We also heard of a number of other wedding receptions and anniversary parties held at the hall.
“Another story was of the ‘great Bishop reunion’ in 1978 when 138 members of the Bishop family from all over the country gathered at the Memorial Hall. Then there was the beautiful sound of Welsh voices singing in the hall when a coach party from the valleys visited a friend who was staying with her family in Dilton Marsh to recuperate from illness. “
Kathy continued, “We are very grateful to Dilton Marsh History Society for providing materials about the hall and a display about the event to commemorate 70 years of the end of World War 2. Also to Westbury Family History Society for bringing the display about the brave men of Dilton Marsh that lost their lives during World War 1 – to whom the Memorial Hall is dedicated. And – of course – to Jocelyn and Caroline for keeping the refreshments flowing.
“It was really great to see so many people enjoying the chance to get together and remember the good old days – no matter how recent or long ago. We will continue to collect stories and photos, so please contact Kathy Hutt on 01373 301656 if you have anything to share.
“And look out for more information about further events at our wonderful Memorial Hall
