During one of its low states the Society suddenly received a tremendous boost, when a number of new members (mostly teachers!) joined us from Billericay. They injected new life into the meetings and we were very grateful to them. They became affectionately known as the �Billericay Crowd� and they still form a large and vital part of our Society. Since a number of Welsh Societies in neighbouring towns no longer function, these days members travel quite long distances to attend our meetings.
In the early 1990�s, during major building works in the Cathedral Precincts, the old hall was pulled down and replaced by a new Chapter House situated opposite the N.W.corner of the Cathedral. We are now quite at home in this lovely building, where we continue to meet on the 4th Thursday in the month. The same format for meetings has continued over the years. The pattern that has evolved seems to suit most people�s taste. Speakers, panels for questions, quiz sessions, Christmas celebration, nearly always with a Welsh flavour. We do, of course, have a wealth of talent within our own membership giving us extremely enjoyable entertaining meetings as well. More recently, as our Society has become more affluent, we are able to bring artists from Wales to give us occasional special evenings, much enjoyed by everyone. Then of course, there�s the tea! The refreshments are provided and served each month by groups of volunteers, often marking special occasions with something extra!
In the early years, it was felt that we should have a celebration to mark St David�s Day and so a Dinner and Dance was held to mark the occasion. This became an annual event being held in venues such as The Lion and Lamb in Duke St, the Civic Theatre when the floor was sprung and before the rake was installed. For many years it has been held in the County Hotel in the presence of the Mayor of Chelmsford (or Deputy Mayor) and a Guest of Honour. St David is toasted, daffodils are distributed the Leek Ceremony honours praiseworthy members, a County Call takes place, and of course a singsong ends the wonderful evening together. Over the years, by popular opinion and as the evening has become a very full one, the dance has been discontinued, and now Welsh people enjoy a Celebratory Dinner, often with English (or other) partners and friends from a large area around Chelmsford and beyond. The Society owes a great deal to these loyal English supporters. |
