Langport and District Friendly Society- a short report re Club Day 2017
Saturday 27th May, saw the 58th Annual March and Luncheon of the Langport and District Friendly Society since its reformation in 1959.
The day started with members attending the Sports Club at Langport recreation field in the early morning in order to pay their annual subscriptions to the society. The assembled members then formed up behind the club banner and Kingsbury Episcopi Band and marched to St Marys Church, Huish Episcopi, where they were greeted by the ringing of all 8 bells and Divine service lead by the Rev Jess Pitman. The Rev Pitman reminded the members of some of the stated aims of the society from their rule book and joined in 2 rousing Hymns played by Kingsbury band.
The members then proceeded to march through Huish Episcopi and Langport, stopping at local public houses, residential care homes and private addresses where they were kept refreshed en-route. Following the procession the members and band joined other invited guests for lunch at the Langport Arms. Following lunch the society was toasted by local publican Mike Dandy and in response the invited guests where then toasted Brian Langford, who is both a member of the Friendly Society and also plays with the band. Following formal proceedings members and guests spent time in each others company for the rest of the day, with some replacing their required blue and white club rosettes for red and whites ones in order to keep up the events at Wembley Stadium.
Good weather and good company ensured a great day for all those involved.
Friendly Societies can be traced back to the 17th Century. They first existed to help paid up members in times of hardship. They are forerunners to savings institutions, Trades Unions and served as means of welfare prior to the existence of a proper welfare state. Langport and District Friendly Society is one of a handful of Friendly Societies that still exist. These days the society donates monies received to local good causes.
The President and members would like to thank everyone who has supported them on this years annual march.
With many thanks and very kindest regards.
Bill Langford. (President Langport and District Friendly Society).