TWO NOTABLE ANNIVERSARIES
Two, long-established, Ickenham organisations recently celebrated their anniversaries, well supported by the local community.
The Ickenham Residents Association chose to remember their 90 years’ of service in the Village Hall, by presenting an amazing display of photos, articles and other memorabilia depicting 100 years of Ickenham history (right). Barbara Buckle, mainly responsible for setting it up, had put together “100 feet” of fascinating history, including 500 photos and other items. She told ICN, “A steady flow of visitors closely studied the information all day and towards the end of the day, when we cut our celebration cake, 100 people were present! I would be grateful if any ICN readers could help support the next show by letting me have photos or information relevant to the 50s and 60s.”
The second organisation to celebrate was the Swakeleys Home Guard Association, remembering their formation in 1944, towards the end of the Second World War. Their original members had been responsible for the safety of Ickenham and its surroundings during hostilities. They were based in Church Farm which then stood at the end of Swakeleys Road, opposite St Giles’ Church. Despite the humorous image depicted by ‘Dad’s Army’, the Home Guard did a vital and often brave job during the Blitz and it really was believed that we would be overrun by the Hun and that the Home Guard would be our last line of defence.
Over 250 residents attended the occasion at the Village Hall, Clubhouse and garden. The Village Hall was decorated with bunting and memorabilia where refreshments were served. Here, the Vyners Swing Band played beautifully, Glebe School sang sweetly, the Sea Cadets (left) were fun and the Grand Raffle popular. The clubhouse was full of happy people enjoying a drink and the garden looked inviting, particularly when the barbecue was served! Outside, a display of military vehicles added to the atmosphere. The Home Guard Association thanks their many supporters, and in particular the generous sponsors and performers. Finally, they are able to announce a donation of £350 to Homes4Heroes. Many thanks!
AFN
