August 2nd saw the first big celebratory event organised by our new president, Martin Ward. The event was a Black Tie Picnic at Charlton Park in Bishopsbourne. The house is a magnificent Grade II listed mansion set in beautiful parkland and was the perfect setting for our evening.
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photos by Wendy Jones – click or tap images to enlarge
Despite the earlier downpours of rain and grey sky we were able to hold our picnic outside before retiring to the main house for a champagne reception and a brief Rotary meeting. This was shortly followed by a request for everyone to go upstairs to the magnificent regency ballroom where President Martin Ward introduced us to the evening entertainment.
This was provided by the Canterbury Catch Club singers who regaled us with a wide selection of catches which were often witty and frequently saucy and which were popular with the English drinking classes back in the 17th and 18th century.
Unfortunately all good things come to an end, but judging by the heartfelt and prolonged clapping it was an evening of great enjoyment and one to be cherished.
