Margaret Rose returns to tell the story about the invasion of the Channel Islands, on Thursday, 19th September 2019, 7pm (for 7.30-9pm), at Yelf’s hotel, Union Street, Ryde.

Due to Ryde Carnival on the 29th, the August quiz is a week earlier, on the 22nd. Same place: Yelf’s Hotel, starting at 19.30, doors open at 19.00. Tickets £3.

A member and volunteer from the earliest days of the Society, Ron was always very willing to get involved on the publicity side of things.

He would be at the forefront of anything musical or theatrical, and helped with the various performances at the Methodist Church during the Society’s Grand Victorian Ryde Weekend in July 2011 (2/24), which commemorated 175 years of the Royal Victoria Arcade.  He even played the role of Father Christmas in the yet-to-be-restored basement of the Arcade, listening to MP Andrew Turner’s Christmas wishes! (2/30)

Ever the showman, and especially happy in front of a microphone, Ron organised fund-raising musical evenings for the Society at Smallbrook Stadium, and hosted his own birthday parties at the Fleming Arms, Binstead (5/31), and then for his 90th, and last, at the New Holmwood Hotel, Cowes.  Always unforgettable occasions, guests were encouraged to join in with his renditions of popular songs from his younger days.

Apart from the musical side, Ron wished to display his artistic side, and set about painting another photoboard to help fund raising for the Society.  Unfortunately, due to his increasing lack of mobility he was unable to finish it, but we still have fond memories of a beret-clad Parisian artist look-alike perched on his stool, paintbrush in hand!

Ron was very proud of his long and close connection with the whole of the Minghella family, and in recent years Society President and Vice President could often be found having afternoon tea in the cafe at Briddlesford Farm.

Ron was always very cheerful, supportive and positive, even in the last couple of years when his failing health slowed him down and caused him to move to Cowes to be near his daughter.  He was a one-off, and will be sorely missed.

It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of Diana Wood, founder of Historic Ryde Society, and co-founder, along with Tony Packer, of Ryde District Heritage Centre.

Without her drive, imagination and enthusiasm, it is unlikely that we would have such a splendid collection of all things Ryde, and the premises in which to display them. The people of Ryde owe her a huge debt of gratitude.

Following a stroke last year, Diana was still active in the community, with the Harp on Wight Festival being close to her heart.

Diana’s funeral will be held at the Isle of Wight Crematorium on Monday 21st January at 10.30am. Anyone wishing to pay their respects will be most welcome.

Historic Ryde Society presents “Greasepaint and Sausages” ENSA, Master Ray Edmunds and the Isle of Wight at War” by Tim Wander at Yelf’s Hotel on Wednesday 17th October, 7pm for 7.30 – 9.00pm.

Members £4, Visitors £5.

Tickets from Ryde District Heritage Centre, or on the door.

HRS Talk – Tim Wander – Greasepaint and Sausages – Ray Edmunds