DECEMBER 2023 Update

 Autumn/early Winter 2023 was a bit special for COVGOG not least because we hosted three very special events. First off was our 30th anniversary celebration when we welcomed back many old friends and remembered those who sadly are no longer with us. Some of our longer-established members pulled out photos and newspaper articles from years gone by thus rekindling memories and reminding some of us how young we looked back then. The event itself went off a treat and thanks to Chris Wilkinson we even had a cake with which to celebrate.

Our second event was held at the end of October. This was our customary Autumn open day. With the fiddle yards and scenic sections included we took up much of the church hall. Many thanks to those whose vigilance with the technical aspects of the layout help to ensure its reliable operation.

The final event of the year was our Christmas supper. Chris Wilkinson, with more than a little help from John, Pete and Pat prepared and served a superb meal of pie, mash, peas and gravy followed by trifle or Christmas pudding. 28 members sat down for the feast which was followed by a raffle, a quiz (won by your author) and a few end of year words from John Wilkinson.

One person was notable by their absence from the Christmas supper. In November, one of our founder members, Peter Honeybone, moved from Kenilworth where he had lived for most of his life to a new home Doncaster, this being close to his family. He is very much missed by his friends at COVGOG but we will keep in touch and we wish him all the very best for the future.

Paul Williams

Photo Caption – COVGOG members sit down for their 2023 Christmas supper.