CHRISTMAS - BRIDGWATER AND WEST SOMERSET

This year we were entertained by a musical interlude, using the latest in modern technology - well it was in 1928!  A prized possession, this machine is a 1928 Edison Bell basic model.  For the Nouveau Riche the metal could be gold plated!    The record on the turntable is a 1930 Imperial, made in this country and labelled 'humourous', the song, "It's a jolly old Christmas" is sung by Leslie Sarony.

Born Leslie Frye in 1897 in Surbiton, this artiste began his entertainment career at the age of 13; served in the First World War after which he appeared in musicals and panto.  During the 20's and 30's he was a variety artist and radio performer.
Around 1975 our hostess and her husband saw Leslie Sarony in Cinderella at the Harlow Playhouse in Essex.  During his eighties he worked in television and films.  In 1983 he had a small part in Monty Python's  "The Meaning of Life".

 
He died in 1985 after an entertainment career spanning around 72 years. Not only music and fascinating collector's items, but a potted history of the artiste too!

These pictures were taken at the event which included  a raffle and a bring-and-buy sale raising £60 for branch funds. The first two show members enjoying the musical interlude and Vicki getting to grips with 1928 technology
As usual, thanks to Vicki, the fifteen or so people gathered in her sitting room enjoyed the start of their Christmas festivities immensely, and we thank her for her continued enthusiasm and originality in supporting the branch. 

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