A sign of the times? What had once been a major, formal ball had in war-time become a more relaxed ‘dance’ with hot-dogs on the menu. However, it was still an enjoyable function.
“Less Formal but most Enjoyable
The Old Stamfordians‘ annual ball was suitably replaced this season with a less formal and most enjoyable dance, held on Monday in the School-hall, which was tastefully decorated by Mrs. G. Staveley Parker (who also provided the floral decorations), Mrs. H. E. Packer, and M. J. Aitken, H. C. Packer, C. Banks and C. R. Nutt, boys of the School. The evergreens were sent by Mr. A. Bowman, of the Pantiles.
Music was provided by the Alhambra Players from the Leicester Palais de Dance, and the catering, including a ‘hot-dog’ speciality, was undertaken in typical style by Mrs. Miles-Barton, of Stamford. A private bar was conducted by ex-Sergt. Instructor G. W. Reeve, of the Hit or Miss inn, Stamford. Stewards for the band were Messrs. H. E. Packer and L. A. Clark, and at the door were Messrs. M. J. Aitken and H. C. Packer.
About 120 guests greatly enjoyed the party, which went with a swing from start to finish.
Owing to prevailing conditions, the Old Stamfordians were neither able to help with the organisation nor assist by their presence, as they have done in the past. Their sincere thanks are extended to Mrs. J. D. Day, chairman, and the following committee, who have been responsible for all the arrangements, and without whose efforts an enjoyable function would have lapsed completely: Mrs. N. A. Pledger, Mrs L. C. Potter, Mrs. Staveley-Parker, Miss Aline Prior, and Messrs. C. A. M. Bowman and J. D. Dolby.”
The Stamford Mercury, 5th January, 1940.