AROUND 70 people converged on the Chapel Hall at Our Lady of the Assumption and St Meddan last Tuesday night for a special anniversary party.

St Anne's Guild celebrated their 70th birthday at the hall in St Meddans Street.

A cake was cut and accordionist Lyn Black played a selection of songs from the era the group was founded, including some numbers by Glen Miller.

Members enjoyed tucking into a high tie of either fish and chips or ham salad and cakes which were served on a stand as they were back in the day.

President Sadie McHarg and a number of past presidents attended the event, along with Honorary President Margaret Gilligan and Canon Archie Brown, current Parish Priest; and Father Patrick Walsh and Canon Patrick McSorley, who are both retired.

Also attending was one of the first members of the group Sadie McBean, who is now aged 89.

A raffle was organised, which included both traditional prizes - a jar of jam, sticks for the fire and more modern prizes - a bottle of wine and candles.

Guild secretary Patricia Lee said: "The event went well and everyone seemed to enjoy it."

St Anne's Guild meet in the Chapel Hall every Tuesday, at 7.30pm and have around 35 members. But new recruits are welcome.

They have talks by guest speakers. Recently an RNLI representative attended and there was a massage therapy demonstration.