SPG Minutes Tuesday 17 May 2016


A meeting of the SPG was held at Twin Farms Kenton Bank Foot, commencing at 8pm. Those present were Tom Ashcroft, Adrian Morley, Maureen Angus, David Appleton, Brian Angus, Mary-Clare Robinson, and David Robinson. Apologies had been received from Chris and Kath Wright and Phil Sloan. Catherine Ashcroft attended also near the end of the meeting. Members were particularly pleased to welcome Adrian who had missed a number of meetings whilst caring for Jean who had recently died after a long illness

As usual the conversation was wide ranging from music to politics to sport. David Appleton recounted how he had participated in efforts to secure Close House, the stately home which presided over the University playing fields and Golf Course (now in private hands). Adrian remarked that he and Jean had held the celebration of their Golden Wedding Anniversary in that magnificent building.

This caused Brian to reflect that, with Maureen, he had recently attended Jean’s funeral service at St Andrew’s Church in Corbridge. David Appleton, Tom and Margaret Ashcroft, and Judy Sunter were also there. Adrian introduced the service with a fine rendition of an andante from a Schubert sonata. A beautiful service was then conducted by Reverend Jenny Kinnaird. Tributes were made by daughter Anna and son John, and by friend and former colleague Dr Mary Danskin who recalled the affection and respect in which Jean was held in her work as a community paediatrician. There followed  a superb performance of the  Vivaldi song Vieni Vieni by grand-daughter Estelle. Adrian commented at our SPG meeting that Estelle had firm ambitions to become a professional singer, focussed on musical theatre. At the reception following the service, Adrian paid a sincere tribute to those who had supported him including the charity Hospice at Home and GP Dr Roger Dykins.

Members quaffed fine ale and other beverages, as well as feasting on excellent food, for example scallops, chips and salad. Members lingered happily until about 10.25pm when the meeting was drawn to a close. The next meeting is scheduled for the 9th of June.

Brian Angus