2022 Annual Gathering

The East Sussex Annual Gathering 2022 was held during the weekend of 22-24 April 2022.

89 people joined us at The Royal Victoria Hotel, St Leonard's-on-Sea, Hastings, and enjoyed meeting in person again, after two years of postponed Gatherings.

Friday evening saw a Welcome Reception, before a hot buffet meal, followed by entertainment - which included a humorous film show giving a review of events over the last 3 years and the presentation of the ‘Peewit Awards’ for members who have attended ‘milestone’ (10, 15, 20 & 25) Annual Gatherings

Saturday consisted of a coach tour across Romney Marsh, with Saville related commentaries. We arrived at New Romney station on the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch railway line in plenty of time for photographs and chats to the engine driver, before boarding our exclusively commissioned train, pulled by ‘Green Goddess’ loco. for our trip out to Dungeness. We were met by Owen Leyshon of the Romney Marsh Countryside Partnership, who gave an  excellent introduction to this fascinating part of the world before members were given free time to explore in extremely breezy conditions. The coaches then picked us up and took us to Rye, where one group took a guided walk to Winchelsea, whilst the other group split up and explored the beautiful town. We were then all bused back to the hotel in good time for the evening’s ‘Fabulous Feast’, followed by a highly amusing ‘play wot Jenny Aitken rote’ - well performed by various members present

Sunday saw the 'hybrid' AGM, both in person and remotely, via Zoom. Many members continued to enjoy the sunny weather during tours of Hastings after the official event had ended, with 41 enjoying a further lovely evening meal at the hotel, as they were staying an extra night

As co-ordinator of the event, I could not be happier. The hotel, rooms, service, food and value for money were all truly excellent and I have heard nothing but praise from the attendees. The staff went out of their way to make us welcome and went the extra mile in every department. The glorious weather was also a bonus!

Clive Gee

East Sussex Annual Gathering 2022 co-ordinator