Some 80 members of the Society enjoyed a delicious champagne tea reception in the lovely Long Hall at Ramster Hall near Chiddingfold on 22nd July to mark our 40th Anniversary. Dating back to the 17th Century, Ramster was first built by a wealth glassmaker, Chiddingfold then being the centre of the glassmaking industry. Originally a farm barn, the Long Hall was converted in 1900 to the beautiful panelled and beamed room we see today, at the same time as the house was extended and converted into an Edwardian country house. Ramster is renowned especially for its beautiful gardens, which we were able to enjoy before and after tea – if we had time!
Special guests Hampshire and Isle of Wight Area Arts Society Chair, Charles Harris and his wife Marilyn accompanied Society Chair, Jackie Bearman and President, Derek Linney in welcoming members. 
Once we had charged our glasses with champagne and found a seat at one of the eight tables of 10, Jackie welcomed us all and spoke about our 40 year history, while Derek Linney emphasised that members are the lifeblood of the Society and thanked everyone for helping the Society continue to thrive. Charles Harris then added his congratulations on our anniversary and commented on how friendly and successful our Society is.
The Committee and helpers had done a great job in decorating the hall with Arts Society balloons and banners. There was also a display about the history of the Society, to which several members had contributed photographs from earlier events. We were also particularly glad that Sheila Sheath, our Founding Chairman, now in her 90s, was able to come, accompanied by Libby Mason, also a Founder Member.
The tea itself was ‘truly scrumptious’, with liberal quantities of sandwiches, scones with cream and jam, and a large selection of cakes and macaroons. Ramster did us proud and and we are very grateful to Rosie Glaister, who now owns Ramster with her husband, and her staff for helping to make our celebration such a success.
You can see more photos of the event here ; and more about our history in last 40 years here.
