THE ST. VINCENT and the Grenadines Association (SVGA) in Reading UK hosted their ever popular annual “Members, Family Friends Party” at the MAPP Centre to celebrate the togetherness and extend the event to fund-raise to support both the Haiti Earthquake Disaster victims and the under-privileged children in St Vincent and the Grenadines.{{more}}

A Children’s Party was held in the afternoon to give the younger generation an opportunity to participate in activities, as the need to identify with St Vincent and the Grenadines is acknowledged by Marcella John the organiser of the event.

The evening event was brought to order by Dudrey Browne, the Vice Chair and MC for the evening. Browne extended the warmest of welcomes on behalf of Gloria Jack – Chair of SVGA Reading, to the special guests for the evening His Excellency Cenio E Lewis – High Commissioner for St Vincent and the Grenadines and his wife Ita Lewis; Bertie Pompey – Deputy Commissioner of Police for St Vincent and the Grenadines and other distinguished guests and friends, including the well-loved singer Judy Boucher, who led the singing of the National Anthem.

In his introduction, Browne acknowledged what a privilege and honour it was once again for Jack to be hosting the event, and much praise and thanks were given to all the members who had worked so visibly hard throughout the years to keep the Association in such prominence.

His Excellency Cenio E Lewis in his very encouraging speech, echoed praise for the vibrant Reading Association and offered encouragement and support to members. Included in his edifying speech on progress from SVG were references to the Argyle Airport, the education revolution, support for children and the housing programme.

As is tradition, a Vincentian is presented with an award for their contribution to the betterment of Vincentians in Reading and the community as a whole.

This year the recipient of the award was Kemuel Spence, Saxophonist. Since arriving in the UK, Kemuel has been delighting fellow Vincentians with his tantalising musical ability at each annual Service of Thanksgiving, which celebrates the independence of St Vincent and the Grenadines. The award, a miniature saxophone, was presented by Jack and Browne on behalf of St Vincent and the Grenadines Association of Reading.

The ecstatic crowd expressed their satisfaction for a wonderfully “finger-licking” dinner, tastefully prepared by the members’ catering team, before revving up to “whine down” the house with some heavy soca and reggae rhythms. The Raffle with its usual mixture of anticipation and hilarity was very well supported. Jack was more than delighted to be the host and declared the evening a resounding success. She extended sincere thanks to all members, guests, family and friends for their support in making the evening so special.