The September 2025 George Formby Society convention was a wonderful celebration of music, friendship, and shared passion. With record attendance, memorable performances, and a renewed sense of purpose for the year ahead, the weekend reminded us all why the GFS remains such a special community. From welcoming familiar faces to electing a new committee and saying thank you to valued contributors, it was truly a weekend to remember.

A Sense of Pride

Looking back on the September 2025 Convention, I feel a real sense of pride and happiness. It was a weekend filled with music, friendship, and familiar faces, and it reminded me once again why the George Formby Society means so much to all of us. From the record attendance and wonderful entertainment to the chance to catch up with old friends and welcome new ones, there were many moments that I will cherish for a long time.

Record Attendance

The standout memory I took home from the 2025 convention was the capacity attendance. Shortly after the room opened to members, it became clear that more chairs were needed — a wonderful problem to have! This was quickly resolved, and it was heartening to see membership numbers remain high throughout the weekend. September meetings are always well attended, but this was one of the very best, proving once again that the George Formby Society continues to enjoy the magnificent support of its members.

Entertainment Highlights

The entertainment was, as always, top-notch. A constant rotation of performers took to the stage, once again demonstrating that the George Formby Society is more than capable of putting on the very best shows.

Special Guests

One particularly welcome guest who created a ripple of excitement early on Saturday afternoon was none other than Dickie Speake, who made one of his rare visits to join us. Members — especially our younger ones — were delighted to meet Dickie and to enjoy his two memorable appearances on the Blackpool stage.

Annual General Meeting

Sunday morning brought the Annual General Meeting — the sixty- fourth in the long and glorious history of the George Formby Society. All fully paid members were invited to attend, and a new committee was elected to guide the Society through the remainder of 2025 and into 2026. Two notable additions were Gail Kinraide, who takes on the role of Chair, and Andy Eastwood who comes on to the committee for the first time as Vice-Chair. Summer Valentine, was wholeheartedly welcomed and joins as Vice-President following a vote in which she was overwhelmingly approved by members. Andrew Higham also made is debut has a Committee Member. One topic raised during the meeting was the absence of the fourth convention and the fourth magazine. It was clear from a show of hands that virtually all members present wish to see both reinstated on the GFS calendar as soon as possible.

Acknowledging Kevin and Cathy Staniland

Sunday evening brought the weekend to a close — and with it, the conclusion of Kevin Staniland’s work as our sound engineer. For the past few years, we have all benefited from Kevin’s skill and dedication at the mixing desk. Speaking personally, as someone with severe hearing loss, I would not have been able to contribute as a performing member without Kevin’s encouragement and support. Better sound makes for a better meeting, and everyone in the room has benefited from his experienced hands on the controls. Kevin and Cathy Staniland have usually begun their convention weekend on Friday, arriving early to assemble the sound system. They typically finish this vital work on Friday evening, ensuring everything is ready for the weekend. When Kevin was first appointed sound engineer, one of his first improvements was relocating the sound desk to its correct position — at the back of the room, where it belongs, rather than at the side. Cathy will also be greatly missed at future meetings — not only for her steadfast support of Kevin but also for her invaluable contribution to the wooden ukulele class, which she successfully launched. Her organisation, enthusiasm, and encouragement have helped many members begin their ukulele journeys, and her absence will be keenly felt.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As we look ahead to 2026, I feel confident that the George Formby Society will continue to thrive, supported by the same friendship, enthusiasm, and dedication that made this year’s conventions so special. With a new committee in place, exciting plans on the horizon, and the unwavering support of our wonderful members, there is every reason to believe that the future of the GFS remains bright. I’m already looking forward to the next time we meet — and to making many more happy memories together. Peter Pollard - September 2025