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Whickham & District Round Table No. 708
The National Association of Round Tables is an organisation for young men up to the age of 40 with the aim of promoting fellowship and a willingness to work for the community. Sponsored by Stanley Round Table, a Table was formed in Whickham in 1960. It was known as Whickham & District Round Table No. 708. It opened with more than twenty founder members. They, along with their Founder Chairman George Lane, met in the Bay Horse Whickham.
The Table grew from strength to strength and in 1964, under the leadership of Fund Raising Chairman George Pledger, organised a "Meals on Wheels Week Appeal". The objective was to provide entertainment for the community and at the same time raise hard cash so that a suitable van could be purchased for the local W.V.S. Meals on Wheels Service. This was to be used to distribute meals instead of having to operate from private cars. Different functions were arranged for every day of the week 23rd May to 30th May, the highlight being a Donkey Derby and Gala Day in Chase Park on the Saturday.
Such was the success of this week, two Mini Vans were purchased for the use of the W.V.S. who were able to provide two hot meals a week for at least 48 old people. The Table was also able to contribute to the old people's Luncheon Club in Dunston providing a hot meal and companionship for at least 30 pensioners.
Flushed with success Tablers organised the following year a "Whickham Carnival" from May 30th to June 5th on similar lines.
This again was well supported and achieved the target of being able to have installed in Whickham Chase Park a paddling pool for children.
For many years the local community eagerly awaited Carnivals, organised by Round Table, and many local causes benefited financially from the hard work and dedication of this band of young men.