17 members of the Branch attended the No 4 Area Reunion at the Durrant House Hotel, Bideford, over the weekend 6th – 8th March 2026.
The weekend commenced on Friday with Shipmates sitting down to a hot/cold Buffett meal in the Ballroom followed by entertainment, dancing and a Bottle Raffle.
On Saturday, Shipmates were at their own leisure during the day; a quiz was held in the “Sir Richard” room in the morning, won by our guest branch, Aldershot, and later on in the evening, Shipmates then mustered in the Ballroom for the Gala Dinner; Grace was said by S/m Rev Martin Kirkbride.
On completion of dinner a number of toasts were proposed, acknowledgement was given for all the hard work from the great team of Shipmates who organised the weekend and then a number of Announcements and Awards were made which included:
No 4 Area Presidency
It was with honour that S/m Malcolm Day, President of Chard Branch officially accepted the position of Area No 4 President from retiring incumbent, our own, S/m David White MBE MSM of Portland Branch, who after many years sterling service in Branch, to the Area and also at National level, was stepping down.
Jacqui Ward Trophy
Presented to the lady shipmate who had contributed most, selflessly within Branch during the previous year. This year the 2025 trophy was won by S/m Sherylin James of Chard Branch. Unfortunately, S/m Sherylin was unable to attend the weekend to receive the trophy so the trophy was presented by S/m No 4 Area DNCM Peter Shoesmith and S/m Deputy Area Chairman Ben Cartwright to S/m Helen Day who collected it on behalf of S/m Sherylin. Well done Sherylin.
Certificates of Appreciation
Presentation of a number of Certificates of Appreciation for sterling service and support was made by S/m Area Chairman and No 4 Area NCM Warwick Belfitt, which included our very own S/m Monica White.
On Sunday morning, Shipmates who could, made their way to St Margaret’s of Antioch Church, Northam, for a Service of Remembrance hosted by Revd Jules Harris, Rector St Margaret’s, and Revd Martin Kirkbride, Padre RNA No 4 Area, Chaplain D118 Association.
Later, after lunch, Shipmates learnt who had won the Rum Raffle and enjoyed an afternoon of Horse-racing hosted by Fay and Mike Lawton and their team of “Bookies” and “Jockey’s”.
Monday morning and onwards to home. Lots of roadworks and all roads lead to the A35!