Newsletter – September 2008 Behind the Scenes –

The 30th Anniversary of the Vence and Stamford Twinning Associations

We quickly realised that in order to produce a relevant, interesting and meaningful programme, we needed to know quite a lot more about the last 30 years, so research became the name of the game. This clearly had to be based on people’s memories and any documents that we could lay our hands on.

So the first job was to identify who it was that might just remember the events and dates of each bit of the last 30 years. Arthur Mitchell undertook to delve into the archives of the Stamford Mercury and quickly established the names of the key figures involved in the setting up of the Association and also the ongoing players. He came up with a huge amount of information about people and events as well as many photographs.

This immediately raised the question as to who were still in the land of the living. Of the earliest trailblazers we knew that Soni Cloudesley-Seddon, a new town councillor at the time and Mayor Tony Allen were no longer with us but Peter Speigl the deputy mayor in 1977/8 was still around. Early chairmen such as Neal Johnson and Tom Northern were not. Pauline Troth our first Treasurer and Ken Knowles chairman in 1985/6 were subsequently contacted. Key memories and information sources were those of people like Alan Rose, a member since late 1978 and president to this day; Phyllis Hall, wife of Sid who was the chairman for 12 years over the ‘80s and ‘90s.

From some we got anecdotes, others photographs and from Ken the Association’s minutes dating back to 1977 (albeit not complete) to 1988 which we knew were missing as our records began with Sid Hall as chairman. The decision had been taken early in the year to attempt to produce some sort of written/ pictorial account of our history. Enter Maurice Debbage who is a professional graphic designer who with his wife Lyn, joined our committee last October. He, together with several other committee members, took on the mammoth task of collating all the photographs and information and then formulating The Brochure, which was presented to all the Vence and Stamford families at the farewell dinner on the last night, and subsequently will be given to all our other members at future events.

Another early decision was to give 30th anniversary T-shirts to all our guests on arrival at the Lady Anne’s and provide a stock for sale to our own members. This was left to our Secretary, Eileen, who had to find and liaise with the suppliers at the right prices, get the sizes of all the guests from Vence and decide on the design of the logo with the help of Maurice. The Town hall records contained much that was relevant to us and were used to trace and invite past mayors toThe Civic Reception. From the start this event was designed to be “special”. Traditionally, the preparation of the buffet is undertaken by the ladies of the committee, so it fell upon them to devise a novel offering based on the notion that this was a walk-around finger buffet with only the minimum of seating available and nowhere to rest a plate or glass; i.e. most nibbles had to be bite sized. They were helped partly by the fact that while the Town Hall normally funds the cost of the event, but because of the extra numbers and the importance of the event we had asked them for an extra donation. It took the attendance of your chairman at a council meeting one evening to push the point but we obtained what we needed. With this extra support and much gastronomic research the result was definitely a hit. So much so that they were asked if they could repeat the performance later in the year. Ladies; Jean, Sue, Lyn and Eileen take a bow, it looks like a job for life!

With Arthur Mitchell being ill this year Bob Rennard did the duties by sorting out the liquid refreshment. Lyn Debbage also excelled herself in producing a magnificent iced cake in the shape of an open book that was fully decorated with the insignia of both towns. Such was the weight of it we even considered the used of a fork lift to get it into the town hall! This mouthwatering item was formally cut into by Christian Iacono, the mayor of Vence and Maureen Jalili our Stamford mayor.

Speeches were made by these dignitaries and by the two twinning chairmen Pascale Galliano for Vence and John Polkinghorne for Stamford (with Monique’s help for the French translation) who gained the distinction (according to Alan Rose) of delivering the longest speech in the Association’s 30 years! One hundred people were present including many past mayors and present councillors. We know that the figure was 100 because we had been told that the insurers believed that the floor would collapse if we exceeded that number and to our knowledge it is still in place.

Amongst those present were two unexpected guests. Previously Maureen Jalili had helped a Provencal artist, Genevieve, to set up an exhibition in the Arts Centre spanning the twinning visit. At its opening your chairman and his wife were invited where they met Bart de Groot, Genevieve’s business associate. It seems that they live six months in Villefranche and six months in the USA.

They extended an invitation to all of us to visit them any time we are in Vence and as a mark of reciprocity we invited them to our reception. Where we know they were well received by both French and English.

After the reception the rest of the programme got underway with the water trip on The Rutland Belle which pleasantly lasted much longer than intended (we couldn’t get the Vencois out of the gift shop in the sunken chapel) and was followed by a meal on the waterside. The same day was rounded off by a Concert at The Queen Eleanor School organised by the Stamford Brass Band’s leading cornet player Bob Rennard. The programme was given a real European flavour and was greatly appreciated by our guests. The school added their contribution in the form of a student’s rock group. After the group had taken the stage a figure was seen to fly through the audience and disappear into the foyer and down a long corridor only to reappear seconds later carrying the mislaid bass guitar. Probably rather useful if you are a guitar player!

Sunday saw The French Market open in the High Street. After negotiating with both the SKDC and the market organiser, one Bruno Giradeau, we had agreed on the alignment of the date and we had been offered a stall free of charge for the day. Bruno was tickled by the idea of so many French being present particularly in traditional costume. Before the day, we had asked for setting up details and who to contact on the day. Also we had been promised that a good part of the advertising banner over the High street would be about our anniversary. Sadly this latter resulted in a couple of meaningless words added to the side of the banner which conveyed very little. The name of the market contact was Jourdan, who when Alan Rose arrived to set up appeared to know nothing about the arrangement! All credit due to Alan who with minimal resources but at least a space to work in, set up our stall for the day that ultimately attracted many people. He was assisted by the tasters of Provencal spices prepared on the spot by Pascale and friends, during which Ken Knowles arrived before going off to see some old twinning friends in town. Much interest was generated and at least one new member signed on.

Coincidental with the Market, in the afternoon, Stamford Brass were playing on the recreation ground, from which on completing their programme, Bob Rennard had to dash to the Band headquarters where he was organising the Hog Roast event for the evening. We needed a minimum of 50 people and we finished up with 65 for The Hog Roast, to be viable. Every one mucked in and seemed to enjoy themselves. However the much vaunted international cricket match never saw a ball bowled and the other games laid on received minimal attention. Instead all the young people present seemed very happy to make their own entertainment leaving us all happily tippling, troughing and talking.

Monday, London! As we are blessed with 2 railway stations locally we have options. Because the concessionary tickets were offered at 4 for the price of 2 and children’s at £2 each we had to juggle with such parameters as where people lived, had they got transport, were they willing to travel a bit further to make the planning possible; in some of the cases and were the group numbers from each station divisible by 4. Prices of course differed between Stamford and Peterborough. With much soul searching and tearing of hair a plan was devised that answered all the criteria and handed out at the weekend. It wasn’t too long before alternatives were being suggested often to suit only the individual concerned. Once it was assumed that individual plans were being considered (which they were not) much discussion ensued and a lively debate took place (mostly at the Hog Roast) with the final result that no changes were made. As it was when the day came all went off very smoothly, with groups of like interests being formed, with an overall concern for the young French travellers not to be left on their own. It worked and a great day was had, which included that rarity this year, some English sunshine.

Another good day out was had at Melton Mowbray (guided by Doreen) where the full Farmers Market was in full swing including the chance to sample the renowned Pork Pies (yet another hidden tale). We had found out that the Melton Pie makers gave short “hands on” classes for tourists whereby participants could mix up the ingredients of a pie under supervision and make their own individual pie, which could be collected later after cooking. Great, until we found out that these sessions had to begin at 5pm when the shop closed. At 5pm we had to be back to Stamford in order to prepare for and attend the farewell party! So another good idea bit the dust.

The Farewell Party after 30 years, this had to be a bit different and so it was, because a huge amount of thought and preparation had gone into it which, you’ve guessed it, produced its own twists and turns. Table plans we now know are essential for 60 or more people but once decided upon have to be printed and folded and placed on the tables, so when at the last minute one finds two extra names need to be added . . .! But that is normal.

This year again Maurice showed his skills and produced personalised family envelopes in which was a copy of the Anniversary Brochure as well as providing commemorative copies of the evenings menu. Also in table planning, account must be taken of the fact that all speakers must be positioned on the periphery of the assembly. Trying to speak when surrounded by your listeners is to be avoided. By having the theatre group The Shoestrings performing added a further complication regarding space, but Geoff Hastings and Warren and their staff were very helpful here and eventually found a workable solution. The problem with the Shoestrings was that they are a volunteer amateur group who work for charity only and they had requested to come on as early as possible as several of them had some distance to travel. Had they been paid professionals we would have been in a better position to dictate the timing, but had no desire to upset them over this. Thus it had been agreed that they would come on during the “coffee period” which should be at approximately at 9.30pm. But! (here we go) The patio aperitifs drifted well outside their allotted time and we barely all got seated before 8pm instead of 7.30pm. Added to this the three courses took longer than estimated and by the time we were ready for coffee, Shoestring were itching to go and our speakers were more than ready to begin. The speakers won much to the chagrin of Shoestring and in the rush to bring them on Pascale nearly missed her speaking slot. As a result that when they had finished and it has to be said they put on a well appreciated show, they quickly left the scene and although the chairman rushed out to the car park to hand over our charitable donation there was no sign of them and it had to be sorted out on another day. However, judging by the comments afterwards it had all been worthwhile. Roll on the fortieth!

KUTNA HORA 2008

No behind the scenes here, apart from a related incident that is covered elsewhere. Eighteen Stamford twinners made the trip. It should have been nineteen but unfortunately Graham Peckett could not make it due the pressures of work. It was good to see several people who have neither been before or who have not been lately, joining us in the Czech republic. Airline prices, again varied considerably. The early ones were costing about £80 whereas the last ones we bought were over £140. Individuals brought some interesting alternatives to the scene, Ron and Margaret Simpson went all the way by car, taking in the sights in Germany on the way there and returning via France. Jack and Avis Smith opted to stay in a hotel in town and were joined by Geoff and Jean Winson. Old friendships were renewed by Monique, the Caldwells, June Standing, Jane Peckett and the Polkinghornes as well as some new ones being made by Margaret Rine and the Goff family.

Our first visit was to Melnik north of Prague and about one and a half hours by bus. It stands on a hilltop at the confluence of two major rivers and was steeped in history. We saw the most unusual perambulator Museum and then moved on to Lucen Castle which was a magnificent edifice. Here we had a splendid lunch and then chose to see the interior of the castle or the beautiful grounds that were littered with a great variety of mazes and labyrinths. Many have long asked for a day in Prague, well this was offered on the Monday, where we were taken to the Planetarium to be shown the story of the Czech nation through the ages.

Then a surprising visit to the Vysehrad which is the oldest part of Prague, but instead of seeing ancient houses and buildings from several hundred years ago the space inside the powerfully protecting walls was turned over to a relaxing parkland which included some buildings and restaurants but nothing of any antiquity. Outstanding were the views from the top of the walls over the Vltava River. A local hosting attraction was the white deer, which no doubt in England gave its name to many ‘White Hart’ pubs.

A new venue, the U Barbory restaurant close to the cathedral, as its name implies was used for the farewell party. Good food, good company, plenty to drink and a music man with his accordion to keep us entertained were all very acceptable. What a good night to close with. So we left the next day, a Tuesday, but managed to leave two of our party behind. That really was a first.

Staying Behind and Insurance On the Monday Jack and Avis had gone to see an old friend, not opting for the bus ride to Prague. Whilst getting up from an outside table she hit her left leg below the knee without breaking the skin and stumbled. After having sat down again she realised that the bruise was starting to swell and after a short while the swelling increased and Jack decided to send for an ambulance. On getting to the local hospital it burst and she was operated on and had to spend more than a week in the hospital. During this time Jack was checking on his insurance in order to get them both back to England. He had his European Health Insurance Card (the old E-111) but was unsure about any other travel insurance. Eventually using his Barclay Card cover he and Avis were repatriated to Heathrow and thence to Boston Pilgrim Casualty after spending 12 extra days in Kutna Hora. But, because he did not pay for his flight by Barclay Card, only his hotel bill, he had to pay up front and then claim back retrospectively. During their prolonged stay the Czechs and in particular Eva and Jaroslava were brilliant in support of them.

The EHIC is never a substitute for travel insurance and while it will pay for any treatment that citizens of that country would expect it does not cover repatriation.

A.G.M. 2008

At last year’s A.G.M. it was recognised that the gap between the end of our financial year and the A.G.M, was only about 3 weeks, which is a bit tight for the preparation of the Annual Accounts. We therefore passed a motion that we would in future hold it a month later in November. The date for the AGM has now been fixed for Tuesday 18 November, 7.30 at The Lady Anne’s. Apart from the business side we hope to be able to provide a speaker, and/or slide show of the summer visits, plus there will be a raffle and coffee. Related to this is our need for a new Treasurer. Two years ago we had the same desperate need and Joan Cookney bravely stepped into the breech for one year only. Having already doubled that, she desperately needs to stand down this year. The job is not difficult at all and both Eileen and myself could cover it from our past experiences but there is no way that we would entertain having the posts of Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer in one house. That would not be a proper way to run the Association. So, a volunteer please. The new treasurer would not be in at the deep end. We know the job well and I am sure that Joan would also be happy to ease the transition through.

Anniversary T-shirts will be on sale for £7 each at the AGM. There is a wide range of sizes available and can also be ordered from stock on a one-off basis to any size you may require. Also available at the AGM will be copies of the Anniversary Brochure. If you haven’t had a copy yet, here is the chance to collect it.

John P. (Chairman) Forthcoming Social/Fundraising events There will be a Harvest Fest and Quiz in Baston (see insert). Please ensure that slips are returned no later than the requested date With so much else going on in December once again we will defer our annual dinner until after Christmas which gives us a much wider choice of venue and better prices. We plan on producing a December Newsletter which will give more details of events for 2009. This will undoubtedly include a mix of social and fund-raising events and we do hope that as many members and friends as possible will be able to participate.

Committee and Contact Details

Alan Rose (President) – Tel: 01778 560859 e-mail: alan.rose@gas-springs.com
Eileen (Secretary) & John (Chairman) Polkinghorne Tel: 01778 561540 e-mail: polky@bigfoot.com
Joan Cookney (Treasurer) Tel: 01572 820144
Arthur Mitchell Tel: 01780 765336 email: arthur_margarete@egardens32.fsnet.co.uk
Monique Demar Tel: 01733 340504 email: monique.demar@virgin.net
Doreen Jefferis Tel: 01780 765348
Geoff Winson Tel: 01780 763587 email: geoff.winson@btinternet.com
Sue & Bob Rennard Tel: 01780 721010 email: bobandsusanrennard@talktalk.net
Joyce Mason Tel: 01778 421295 email: joyceamason@hotmail.com
Lyn & Maurice Debbage Tel: 01733 252926 e-mail: maurice01@btinternet.com