On the 13th August 2024 the Men’s Probus Club of Henley-on-Thames, which started back in 1978, celebrated its 500th monthly meeting on the banks of the river Thames, in glorious sunshine.
The venue selected was the Henley Business School in its delightful grounds, Greenlands, which many will know lies along the river on the A4155, opposite the Henley Showground.
Over 50 club members and partners met to socialise with drinks on the terrace.
Drinks were followed by a 3 course buffet meal (with wine) in the Heyworth Restaurant.
After the meal, our President, Viv Emerson, gave a speech in which he thanked the many friends and family that attended, and noted the sad gaps left by missing members – for which there was a toast to absent friends. The club was very pleased that four wives of former members were able to attend the lunch (Annie Fitton, June Cross, Lesley Holmes, Susan Kendrick). Two former Presidents were sadly unable to attend (Ian Black & Julian Pearce). Barbara Baxendale kindly attended to represent the Henley Ladies Probus Club.
Viv highlighted some observations from the Henley Men’s Probus archives: that the club was formed in 1978; in May 1990 the club moved from Leander Club to Badgemore Park; in June 1990 an overwhelming majority decided that the club would become a No Smoking club; in 1995 the Henley Ladies Probus Club was formed; in May 1996 the club had a special lunch to celebrate its 300th meeting.
Viv finished by celebrating the longevity of certain members – in reverse order: in 3rd position was Michael James who joined in 1998 (26 years including some as Speaker Secretary); in 2nd position was Tim Woods who joined in 1991 (33 years including some as Social Secretary); and in 1st place was Alan O’Dair who joined in 1988 (36 years including some as Treasurer and Accounts Examiner).
Alan (seen here with Viv) is amazing for hw is still a regular attendee and is 94 years young, and he Elizabeth celebrated their 70th Wedding Anniversary in July 2024:
This flyer welcomed members to their tables:
The Buffet Lunch comprised this menu:
