Happy 25 years!

Members of Stratford Ladies Probus have celebrated the group's 25th birthday with a lunch at the Balcony Restaurant.

The lunch was a time to share memories of the past 25 years, as well as planning for the future.

Lorna Maxwell was the first president of the group, and Elsa Preo the first secretary.

"Elsa and I went along to the inaugural meeting," Lorna says. "Somehow or other we got put on the steering committee and I went home wondering what that all meant."

Seven members of the group were recognised for their 25 years of service, each receiving long-service medals, as well as a bouquet of flowers.

Those receiving their long-service awards at the lunch were Lorna Maxwell, Beatrice Hughes, Margaret Taylor, June Schneller, Dawn Collinson and Elsa Preo. Joyce Stallard who was not able to be present received hers later.

President Barbara Perry says new members are always welcome.

"We love meeting new people and it is a lovely group to be part of, you make some great new friends through it".