Mike Broomfield, Chairman of the Littlehampton Companions, presented Ivan Greer with the Bernard Owen Cup for his commitment to the RNLI. Ivan has been a member of the Littlehampton lifeboat crew for 20years and has been called to rescues on numerous occasions. At the presentation at the Rustington Manor Hotel, which he attended with his wife Michelle, Ivan recounted several stories of his rescues including one where he rescued a dog from the River Arun which was featured in the television series about the RNLI.

Members of the Companions had a very enjoyable Christmas Lunch at the Rustington Manor Hotel

At the AGM of the Littlehampton Companions Mike Broomfield was elected as Chairman for the forthcoming year. Mike said that he wanted to ensure that everyone enjoyed themselves in the forthcoming year. A vote of thanks was given to Hilda Renn, the retiring Chairman for all her work during her year of office.

Members of the Companions and their friends enjoyed a very successful evening at the Helyer's Farm last Saturday. Most people took part in a Quiz which was won by Brian and Mary Shiels and their friends. The evening raised over £250 for Club funds.

50^th Anniversary Celebrations

The Companions Club of Littlehampton celebrated their 50^th Anniversary with a reception at the Littlehampton Guide Hall.

The Chairman, Hilda Renn, welcomed nearly 60 guests including several former members of the Club. Several members of the Horsham Companions had also come along. She also welcomed the Chairman of Arun District Council, Councillor Dudley Wensley, the Mayor of Littlehampton, Council Joyce Bowyer, and the Chairman of Rustington Parish Council, Councillor Sue Lines. Hilda said what an honour it was for her to have been elected Chairman in this anniversary year. This was especially so as she had been involved with the Companions for the best part of 40 years when her late husband, Phillip, first joined.

John Helyer, the longest serving member of the Companions also said that it was nice to see so many friends there. He has been a member of the Companions since 1973 and he and his wife, Eileen, had thoroughly enjoyed themselves over the years attending many social and Fund raising events. Many of these events were shown in a display of photos and also many of the Companions brought along photo albums which everyone enjoyed looking at and which brought back many happy memories.

Over the years the Littlehampton Companions have raised many thousands of pounds to help people in the Littlehampton area who do not necessarily get help from other agencies and also for other local charities. These included Auctions, Barn Dances, Race nights and summer Barbecues. Hilda thanked all the members who had done so much hard work over the years to raise this money and also to the members of the public who have supported the many events.

Each year the Companions also recognise someone from the Littlehampton area for their outstanding contribution to the community by awarding them with the Bernard Owen cup.

To celebrate the event everyone was presented with a coaster bearing the Companions Logo, designed and painted by Nina Twinn and donated by David and Nina Twinn.

New members are always welcome. For further information about future events or membership contact Wendy Squires on 01903 714271.

More Photos

The St Mary's Church flower Festival has been arranged as part of the annual celebration in honour of it's Patron Saint. Organisations in the town were asked to provide flower arrangements to reflect something of the life and worship of the church. Rosemary Hoyle put together this magnificent flower arrangement in the Companions colours.