​Blackheath and Chislehurst Circle had the enormous pleasure of hosting a celebratory lunch for Brother Bob Gravells on his 100th birthday.
A large number of Brothers from the Province attended to celebrate with him and Circle President Brother Frank Savage presented him with a special Birthday wish from His Majesty the King and many more Birthday wishes from many Catenians and well wishers. Bob is a War Hero having made two trips on D-Day. Conscripted aged just 18 and choosing the Navy, Bob Gravells was on a merchant ship carrying American troops to the beaches on the afternoon of D-Day.

Motor Vessel Erna was a free Dutch ship with a Dutch crew and he was a gunner. Bob said:
"The weather was bad and the invasion was delayed.

During that time we took on board my recollection is 68 American soldiers - wonderful chaps they were. All around my age - 19,20,21, and the Dutch crew all spoke English.

The Americans were on the ship for at least three days and as you can imagine their accommodation wasn’t great. It was in the hold."

It was a great occasion and everyone who had gathered with Bob for his birthday seemed very privileged to have had the opportunity to share in the once-in-a-lifetime moment which we will never experience again.

Peter Coward’s Presentation for his Year as Provincial President 2023-2024 at the
​Swanley Cheese and Wine Event 15 May 2024

Photos taken by Dave Havercan, Swanley Circle

David Maguire, Beckenham Circle, celebrating 50 years membership of the Catenian Association

Presentation took place at Beckenham's Monthly Circle Meeting on 20 May 2024

Certificate presented by
Duncan Aitkins, Provincial Councillor Bromley


Photos taken by Peter Mollet, Beckenham Circle