Twenty-two members gathered at this regular pub venue - The White Horse, Ditchling - for the Club's pre-Christmas Lunch get-together.

This year we were all seated in the main bar as another group who were cerebrating an eightieth birthday bash had established themselves in the restaurant. In this setting, we mixed with the pub's normal (normal for Ditchling) clientele. Those who were seated near the centre of the room found it a little too noisy - it was like the Last Supper taking place in Paddington Station - though with a slightly less distinguished guest list.

Personally, I had no complaints about my venison pie and cheese board, though some said their food choices were less than miraculous.

Landlord John seemed a bit stressed by the demands on his rather small kitchen and reported that his chef might be trying a little too hard.

Following dessert, Brian delivered his traditional address. Those who could hear this enjoyed his tales about family holiday tensions, or something - and, of course, jokes. I would say to those at the far end of the table who couldn't hear our Chairman - don't worry - you will likely get another chance to hear it again next year!

Those I spoke to afterwards said they had enjoyed themselves, even though it had not been a wholly seamless production. In fact, it was difficult to find a photo of the event with smiling faces. Oh, well.

The Committee, taking onboard comments and criticisms of the Christmas Lunch, have decided to try a different venue for this year.

The Barley Mow is directly on the south side of the A27 - a few miles from Polegate, and so it easily reached by those who would take the A22.

Sunday, 2nd December 2018 BHOC CHRISTMAS LUNCH The Barley Mow, Lewes Road, Selmeston, Polegate, East Sussex, BN26 6UE.

Details will be sent out nearer the time.