Page 27 - QARANC Spring 2024
P. 27
The Gazette QARANC Association 27
from their homeland. We will remember them.
From July to December, the Welsh Branch organised a series of successful outings to create opportunities to strengthen bonds of friendship and to welcome new members. We visited the Royal Welsh Regimental Museum in Brecon in July and learned about the history of the Victoria Cross – initially crafted from metal taken from captured Russian cannons in the Crimea. Particularly noteworthy were the VC’s earned by the 24th Regiment of Foot (which in 1881 became the South Wales Borderers) after the Battle of Rorke’s Drift. The visit concluded with a tour of the Rourke’s Drift Exhibition and insights into the
history of the regimental Goat Majors.
We enjoyed a leisurely canal boat trip on the Brecon
& Monmouthshire canal, taking in the picturesque scenery including swans, ducks travelling through a lock and over an aqueduct, whilst enjoying our picnic lunches. A truly delightful day for all.
In August members, family and friends embarked on a wet but spirited walk from the Storey Arms (located at the start of a walking route up to Pen Y Fan) to Libanus along an old drovers and coaching road, featuring stunning views of Bannau Brycheiniog and majestic views of waterfalls. The weather did not deter us even though we were soaking wet by the end of the walk.
Laughter, conversation, and catching up accompanied us throughout and the day concluded with lunch at the Welsh Rarebit Restaurant Defynnog. Here we sampled a variety of different Welsh Rarebit from many countries’ cuisines, which were different and tasty, plus delicious cakes. A warm and satisfying end to a wet but enjoyable day.
Our annual Christmas lunch took place once
The atmosphere was delightful, with the sound of conversations and laughter filling the air
again held at the Morlais Golf club Merthyr, drawing members, family, and friends to the festive gathering. The atmosphere was delightful, with the sound of conversations and laughter filling the air. A photo slide played in the background, showcasing individuals and places integral to the Branch throughout the years. The presentation also paid tribute to the much- loved members we’ve lost over the years but who still hold a place in our hearts.
The lunch commenced with an address given by our chair followed by Grace spoken in Welsh. The food was lovely, providing a backdrop for laughter, engaging conversation, and gazing at the slide show in between each course.
The event served as a fitting conclusion to an interesting year for the Branch, welcoming new members into our fold, and embracing their active participation in various events, alongside the forging of lots of new memories.
Welsh Branch
Chair: Rosie Hubbard Secretary: Vacant
Treasurer: Caroline Whittaker Established 1968
Members: 79