The club had held its ball on Jubilee weekend and many members were busy harvesting as well and so they celebrated with members past and present at a cream tea at the Devon YFC Rural Hub at Cheriton Bishop on Sunday, August 14.
Several tables were covered with scrapbooks, photographs, menu cards for special dinners, programme cards, booklets and other memorabilia, while in another room were many back copies of Devon YFC year books.
Among the many memories on the tables was a 1958 copy of the “Western Times” newspaper featuring the 25th anniversary of Devon YFC.
People present that afternoon were asked to sign a book that would be part of the scrapbook for this year. Among the members and guests was Trudy Pearce, Club Leader. The other Club Leader is Fiona Mortimer who was helping Lewdown celebrate its 60th anniversary. This had been her own club.
Tedburn St Mary YFC was formed in 1937 (85 years ago), Cheriton Bishop YFC was formed in 1944 (78 years ago). The two clubs amalgamated in 1969, 53 years ago.
The club had chosen a Cherry Stella, self fertile that will have large, rich, high quality fruits, if the birds don’t get them first, to plant for the Jubilee. A lovely plaque had been made in stainless steel to go beside it.
The tree was ceremoniously planted by Molly Rowell, a founder member of the amalgamated club, and one of the last members of Cheriton before the clubs joined.
With her was her sister-in-law Mary Rowell. Molly’s sister, Betty House, is also a founding member but was not able to be at that weekend. Molly’s grandson is also a member.
The plaque, covered with a big Union Flag, had been unveiled by Devon YFC County chairman, Rosie Bennett from Honiton.
People were grateful for the gazebos put up outside giving welcome shade under which to enjoy the tea.
This year’s charity for which the club has been raising money is ELF, Exeter Leukaemia Fund.
It is an enterprising club, lots of social events, an active and friendly club that would welcome new members. Meetings are every first and third Tuesday of the month, at 8pm, usually at the YFC Centre at Cheriton Bishop. Anyone interested can check its website.
by Sue Read