A few months before the start of the Christmas season, one of our most respected and dedicated members was admitted to hospital and then went on to live in a nursing home, that is outside of the clubs catchment area. This meant that Beryl was no longer able to join us at the club anymore. With everyone missing her so much, a plan unknown to the members was led by Marion, with a help from Beryl's daughter, the collaboration from her nursing home, an intrepid volunteer bus driver with our new bus, we were able to transport her safely to the club in her wheelchair, so she could join us all for a very special Christmas lunch, in hopes to cheer her up, and provide her with the much needed familiarity and company she has enjoyed for many years. Unbeknownst to all the members in attendance, waiting for the festive day to start, Beryl's unannounced arrival culminated in rapturous applause, she was greeted with the biggest and warmest of welcomes, making it a day to remember for all and most of all, for Beryl.

The festive season has arrived once again! 🎄 With the much appreciated commitment and effort from our volunteers, elves, fairies, and an exceptionally generous Christmas Raffle donation of £237 (enormous thank you to the Gorgeous Hair Salon in Crawley Down). We provided a free Christmas Lunch with all the trimmings, Christmas pudding, mince pies, chocolates and a tipple or two to wash it all down to 50 members of the club. The day also included a raffle, a sing a long and a visit from the big fellow in the red suit and the rarely seen Mrs Claus.

Following some concerted fundraising efforts, with support from a number of organisations and members, we have replaced our minibus. The transportation of our members is vitally important and it could not be facilitated without the minibus, and the additional assistance of our volunteer drivers who use their own vehicles. The old bus has found a new home at a school and we hope they get many years of use from it. Our thanks to Interior Blinds for arranging and donating the signage on the bus. Tally Ho and off we go - waiting for some nice sunny days to start the outings. 🚎

Please see our Volunteering Page, if you are interested in driving for us one Monday per month.

We were able to provide a lunch for our very valued volunteers on September 20th 2024. A donation was kindly given by Tim Burberry and a magnificent spread was produced of sandwich platters, chicken skewers, sausage rolls, cheese board and rounded off with scones, jam and of course clotted cream. Beverages were consumed but we will have to keep those details top secret.

We are so very grateful for not only the donation but to those who worked so hard on the day to make it a lovely lunch. Even those that walked through the flooded path enjoyed it and we hope their socks and shoes dried out.

On this auspicious day, 18 of us, members and volunteers from the club, enjoyed a springtime outing to the Tulip Fest at Tulleys Farm in West Sussex. The vibrant display of half a million tulips in full bloom truly captured the essence of spring. With sunny skies and pleasant spring weather, it was the perfect day to take in the colorful floral scenery. We capped off the visit with hot drinks and delicious Belgian doughnuts, which added a cozy, relaxing touch to the joyful experience. It was a memorable celebration of spring, nature, and great company.

At the Monday Club we recognise how important it is to ensure that we that our members get the opportunity to partake in the festive season.

Every year with the continued commitment of our volunteers, usually donning their best Christmas jumpers and elf costumes, we hold a free Christmas lunch around the 2nd Monday in December, The drink flows and after a toast we serve up the full Christmas Lunch for upwards of 45 people.

We ensure that each member and each volunteer (if they are still on their feet!!!) enjoys a free Christmas lunch with all the trimmings and a traditional pudding to celebrate this time of year. There is never much left but they all manage the pudding with Brandy Sauce. Mr and Mrs Christmas say hello with tea or coffee and a singalong keeps everybody happy.

🎄 Great times had by all. 🎄

Spooky season arrived with a bang at the Crawley Down Monday Club, as members and volunteers alike embraced the Halloween spirit with enthusiasm. The usual calm of the hall was transformed into a hauntingly fun atmosphere, with witches' hats, colorful wigs, and eerie decorations filling the space. The members came ready to enjoy a day of light-hearted fun, some arriving by their usual transport, while others perhaps flew in on their own broomsticks! 🧙‍♀️ The tables, adorned with Halloween-themed decorations, played host to plenty of chatter and laughter, while the kitchen staff, who seemed to have a few tricks up their sleeves, kept everyone guessing what would emerge next.

The highlight, as always, was seeing everyone fully immersed in the fun. From witches in their finest hats to those decked out in festive green hair, no one held back from enjoying the spooky celebration. With the room draped in cobwebbed tablecloths and surrounded by pumpkins and garlands, the day was filled with smiles, laughter, and a touch of Halloween mischief. It's safe to say that the club’s annual Halloween celebration was a resounding success, proving once again that you're never too old to have a bit of spooky fun! And while we're all relieved it's only once a year, we already can’t wait for next year’s ghoulish gathering.

Recently, we embarked on a delightful trip to Southampton by coach, and the journey was filled with excitement and anticipation. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the fresh coastal air and the sight of boats dotting the marina. The highlight of the day was boarding a charming boat for a scenic cruise along the beautiful waterfront. As the boat glided through the calm waters, our guide provided fascinating insights into the history and landmarks of Southampton, making the experience both educational and relaxing. We sailed past iconic sites, including the bustling docks and quaint coastal villages, all while enjoying the gentle sway of the boat.

Midway through the cruise, we were treated to a classic British meal of fish and chips. The crispy fish, perfectly cooked, paired with golden chips, made for a satisfying and traditional feast. The tour lasted three hours, but the time flew by as we took in the breathtaking views and soaked up the sun. It was a truly memorable day for everyone, filled with laughter, good company, and beautiful sights.

The combination of the scenic cruise and delicious meal made it a perfect getaway, leaving us with fond memories of a fantastic day out.