SPRING/SUMMER 2013 No. 101 - Devon Folk

her, but the engine had broken down at Totnes and
the train would not reach Exeter until 5.10pm. Miss
J. returned to St.Davids Station again at that time and
advised the teacher to return to London on that train.
It was ascertained later that the train was only due to
stop at Reading, Totnes and Plymouth. British Rail
refunded the train fare to the teacher, and the fee of
£4 was also paid. It is not recorded how the afternoon
was spent without the help of the visitor, but no doubt
the members managed very well with those present.
On 16th January 1982 it was “noted with regret the
sad loss of Kate Coombes”. Dick Davey suggested
a memorial dance and Nibs Matthews offered his
services as M.C. A memorial ball for Kate was held
annually into the late 1980s.
The style of these dances and the beautiful music
deserves to be kept alive. Our Saturday afternoon
sessions have changed over the years, and now we
have guest callers who take us through a variety of
dances which include newly-composed ones in the
Playford-style as well as old favourites, so no-one
need worry about not knowing or remembering
dances.
Of course there could be no dancing without the
music. Although there were a few occasions when
recorded tapes were used, the club was fortunate to
have a number of pianists, including Joan Pendered,
Joan Windsor, Valerie Wood and the inimitable
Gwyn George, who still plays for us. At one AGM
some years ago Gwyn was referred to as “the person
to whom we owe so much, and without whom our
dancing would not be so much fun.”
Sadly our numbers have reduced in recent times, and
with the increased costs, it has been a little difcult
make ends meet. But this is not new, as at the AGM
in 1971 Mrs Gill (Treasurer) reported that “we are
not now paying our way and the balance at the bank
is going down steadily each year.” But the club
continued as it is hoped it will now. So although we
have welcomed some new faces in recent times, we
hope there will be more joining us in the near future.
So how about coming to see for yourself and discover
the great pleasure in doing these dances ... and
it is FUN!
June Backway
9
\ Next Door, Crabby Dicks
Cooper Street, Bideford, EX39 2DA
Bring a song or tune,
join in, or just sit and listen
Every Thursday from 8 pm
Everyone welcome
Guests
25th April
Dave Webber & Anni Fentiman
23rd May
Duncan McFarlane
18th June
Carolyn Robson & Kevin Dempsey
Details: Hilary Bix 01237 470792
more info: www.bidefordfolkfestival.co.uk