Sad news from the

Sale branch of The

George Formby

Society.

Branch leader Alan Newton has announced that the venue, The Timperley Taverners Club, has closed and has been sold for re- development. I have visited the club along with Yorkshire pals a few times before the COVID pandemic and have always been so impressed not only with the facilities but also with branch organiser Alan Newton who always went out of his way to make us all welcome. Alan took over as Branch leader in 2017 and worked so hard to ensure that the Sale branch was a thriving success. Alan made everyone welcome and would always ensure the Yorkshire visitors enjoyed plenty of opportunities to perform. Now that the venue is closed, Alan has decided that it is time to also step down and enjoy a well earned rest. I would like to express my personal thanks to Alan for stepping up to the mark in 2017 and taking on the responsibility of organising what is, the oldest branch of the Society. Now the search is on for a new venue and a new branch organiser. If anyone wishes to become involved with this project, please contact Debbie and Dennis Lee who will offer help in any way that they can. Surely this, the oldest branch of the GFS and in operation since 1973 can not be allowed to close. There must be someone in the local area who is prepared to step up and take the responsibility of managing the branch and finding a new venue. PP 17/07/21