23rd August 1954 SS

Sandon Gay Despite the Rain

BRITISH LEGION FETE

A platform gay with bunting and flowers—the work of Mr. R.H. Dewberry, who erected it shortly before the opening ceremony—dominated the scene at Sandon and District British Legion’s sixth annual fete, held in a field adjoining the Dog and Doublet Hotel, Sandon, on Saturday.

There was bright sunshine when the Hon. Dudley Ryder, son of Lord Sandon and grandson of the Earl of Harrowby, opened the fete, but later rain interrupted the programme. Lord Sandon’s son and heir is President of the local Legion.

A large crowd enjoyed displays by the Band of the 1st Cadet Battalion North Staffordshire Regiment, under the direction of Major J.R. Smith; and by the Stone Imperial Cadets dacning troupe, under Mrs. G. Cooper.

A fancy dress parade, children’s sports, and Punch and Judy shows were also in the programme, competitions included bowling for two pigs.

Staffs. ‘Harry Lauder’

Walking round the fete in his Highland costume and enjoying the fun as much as anyone, despite his 80 years, was Mr. Wilmot Martin—“Staffordshire’s Harry Lauder.”

Mr. Martin, who was a close friend of the late Sir Harry Lauder, lives at Hixon, near Stafford. He claims that in his 42 years as an entertainer he has staged 9,000 concerts in 14 different counties.

Organisation of the fete was principally in the hands of Mr. R.H. Philips (Branch Chairman), Mr. R.H. Dewberry (Treasurer) and Mr. R.W. Lindop (Secretary).

In the evening there was a dance at Sandon Village Club.

Reach PLC. Image created courtesy of THE BRITISH LIBRARY BOARD