Every year, the Coordinator of the City Saturday Club, Lynne, hosts a Christmas get-together at her home that allows war widows from both her club and other clubs to gather and celebrate the season. It’s a tradition Lynne has proudly maintained for over 15 years. This year, however, the occasion carried an extra layer of meaning as members came together to honour one of the City Saturdays Club members, Mary, presenting her with her Life Membership certificate. 

Whilst Mary was originally meant to receive the certificate at our Annual General Meeting earlier this year, Lynne and the ladies present were able to present it on behalf of the Board, turning the already special Christmas gathering into a special surprise for Mary. The Guild’s Life Memberships are presented every year by our Board Chair at our AGM and are awarded to honour members who have shown exceptional commitment and service. It is considered a significant accolade within the organisation, and is such an admirable achievement that reflects dedication and is highly valued by members of the Guild. 

With a few recipients chosen every year, the awardees are chosen carefully, and the process takes lots of thought. Member and war widow Mary was one of the distinguished ladies to receive a Life Membership this year. Lynne volunteered to surprise Mary and present the award at her November Christmas gathering. 

Around 22 ladies attended the celebration held at Lynne’s home, including members from the City Saturday Club and some of the Younger Members’ Club. The ladies present were aware of what was to come, all except Mary herself, trying to contain the excitement to see Mary’s reaction to the unexpected award. The lunch prepared by Lynne involved a hearty baked dinner paired with a relaxed and joyful atmosphere. “All you can hear is talking and laughing”, Lynne said.  

In the midst of the festivities and chatter, Lynne was able to say some special words before presenting Mary with her Life Membership certificate. “The look on her face was magic”, member Jenny said. The moment was personal, surrounded by all of her closest friends and Lynne’s family, including her dog Bunny that Lynne is amused to admit ‘guards’ Mary. Mary was genuinely surprised and moved by the gesture. Everyone was thrilled to see her receive the certificate, this group having known Mary for so long and collectively agreeing that she deserved this. She has moved the hearts of so many, even Bunny, Lynne’s loyal dachshund!

Mary’s inspiring contribution to the Guild and her peers

Mary embodies the spirit of our organisation, and lives by the Guilds Motto. She has always given generously of her time and energy, contributing in countless ways. She can be described as an incredibly selfless, strong woman. “She’s gone through hard times and still thinks about other people. She deserved it.” Jenny shared. “She deserves it. She is the true epitome of a war widow. Always giving, contributing in all ways – I couldn’t think of anyone else that deserves it more than her.” Mary is one of a kind, able to make others laugh due to her ability to see the humour in life, and her most memorable trait being her selflessness, giving without ever expecting anything in return.  

Her resilience, kindness, and commitment have made her an inspiration to many of her peers. Lynne recalls being instantly drawn to Mary’s manner when they first met years ago, a sentiment echoed by all who know her. “Everyone that meets Mary falls in love with her.” 

Each attendee could recall something Mary has done or said that has affected them positively. Since meeting decades ago, these friendships have lasted for so long due to actions like these. Selflessness, kindness, and living the Motto the way Mary does.

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