PRESENTATIONS to those who had scooped five major awards at the International Festival of Musical Theatre at Buxton, Derbyshire, were a feature of the annual meeting of Horsforth Grove Methodist Amateur Operatic Society at the Youth Centre, Horsforth.

In addition, National Operatic and Dramatic Association silver bars and badges were presented to four members for a total of 105 years' service to the amateur theatre.

Neil Smith and John Morris, two officials at the Buxton Festival, presented a shield and a framed certificate to the society, for becoming the international amateur theatre champions for their performance of the musical, Fiddler on the Roof.

Framed certificates were also presented to David Kirk, formerly of Yeadon, (best director), John Hudson, of Yeadon, (best actor), Kay Vann, of Ilkley, (best female actor), and members of the stage management team (best stage management award).

John Morris praised members for their success and told them: "The amateur theatre needs this festival."

Director David Kirk said the society, under Jack Myers (former producer), had led the way over the years with a number of adventurous productions.

"The Grove Society has always set a high standard and were at the top for many years. I am pleased they have got these awards," he said.

Chris Ingram, from the National Operatic and Dramatic Association, presented 20- year long service badges to Darien Matthewman, Lynn Marshall and Charlotte Pendlebury. Three silver bars for 45 years' service were received by Valerie Pennett.

The chairman, Peter Stebbings said the society had had an excellent financial year and a successful playing year.

Two members, Barbara Mathews and Keith Denison, had attended the NODA Summer School for make-up and stage lighting courses, respectively.

He said the society had been invited to perform at the centenary celebrations of NODA in London next year.

Ann Garnett, treasurer, said a profit of £3,264 had been made on the show Fiddler on the Roof.

The society has donated £1,000 to Martin House Hospice and £250 to Horsforth Grove Methodist Church.

The society is to put on the play Sylvia's Wedding at Horsforth School on November 19, 20 and 21. The producer will be Ian Asquith.

Officers elected were: Presidents, Reg and Margaret Vinnicombe; chairman, Peter Stebbings; treasurer, Ann Garnett; committee Sally Siddall, Ann Weston, Ian Asquith. Auditor, Jonathon Morrish.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.