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RBL Bing House Open Day
Photographs and report by C and L
Trollope
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THE Royal British Legion's Bing
House,
in Southport, opened its doors to welcome visitors, on Saturday, 13 August 2016,
in order to raise funds for support provisions for its guests.
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A cheery atmosphere prevailed as we moved through many attractions, both in
doors and outside. There were various stalls of bric-a-brac, books ornaments and
toys plus other goods such as RBL wares and a raffle with prizes donated by
local firms; there were also games, and a "victim", David, willing
to be pelted with wet sponges to raise cash! Helpers were abundant including
many young people from the 281 Air Training Corps Southport, who freely gave
their time to help and appeared to enjoy it. Also present, was Sean
Connolly,
who is the author of the book:- 'British Army on the Rampage' and
with another new book:- 'Fighting the New Menace' that is due out
at the beginning of September 2016. Incidentally, Sean has a big incentive to
help as his father, who was Chairman of the Southport RBL, opened Bing House.
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Outside the front of Bing House were a Bouncy Castle, a 6 tonne army SV, multi
terrain vehicle driven by an NCO from Bootle 156 Supply Regiment, and an Ice
Cream Van. At the side of the building was a miniature railway being run by
Southport Model Engineering Club which gave rides to young people. Of course
drinks and delicious cakes were there to be purchased and could be consumed in
the very comfortable chairs adorning the imposing conservatory area, where we
were able to chat to some former guests who were high in their praise of the
service that they had experienced:- "Great food"; "Very
comfortable accommodation;" "Entertainment every night",
"So its your own fault if you do not enjoy yourself!" were some of
the comments as well as the reiterated remarks about the staff! "can't put
into words, they were fantastic"; "Couldn't do enough for us";
"So very helpful" were a few of the words of praise, "Of
course, you can only come once in 2 years" one lady who had recently
visited said ruefully. It seems that Bing House hits the right spot for many of
the RBL members. The successful day seemed a just reward for the Staff.
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photographs taken at this event.
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photographs taken at this event.
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