"Handclap" on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the German-British Society Bocholt

After the rhythmic drum sounds of the group "La Banda Furiosa", the chairman of the German-British Society Bocholt, Andreas Becker, welcomed the numerous members and guests at the Heimathaus Mussum. Under the motto "Today we bang the drums", the society celebrated its 40th anniversary there at the weekend.

The German-British Society Bocholt was founded in 1983. Until today, it has been an integral part of urban life in Bocholt with numerous events and a lively club life. At the same time, the society has been twinned with Rossendale for many decades. The English twin town in the Lancashire district is home to its partner association. The Friends of Bocholt were founded in the same year as their German counterpart and will also celebrate their 40th anniversary in 2023.

Congratulations from the city of Bocholt

On the Society's 40th birthday, Deputy Mayor Gudrun Koppers congratulated on behalf of the City of Bocholt. She was pleased that there are always "individual persons who burn for a cause, who develop a special love, who can win friends and convince them". She paid special tribute to the Honorary Chairman of the Anglo-German Society of Bocholt, Karl Gerd Geßner.

"You are the face or the driving force for me, and have been for many years," said Gudrun Koppers. She concluded by thanking the new chairman Andreas Becker. "You are now the chairman of the association," she said, "and have taken on this extensive task." She concluded by wishing the association continued success in all its activities. Congratulations and a cheque for 300 euros were presented by the deputy chair of the Integration Council, Ataf Chaudrhy.

History of the association from a historical perspective

Heike Mecking presented the history of the Anglo-German Association in historical costume as a woman from the Middle Ages. She looked back with humour not only on the founding of the society, but also on the various events and anecdotes that the society has experienced during its 40-year history. Again and again she animated the audience to applause by "clapping hands". The founding member of the German-British Society Bocholt, Dr. Hans D. Oppel, was also present and told in rhyme about the origins of the society.

Music, buffet and prizes

The winners of the quiz prepared by Karl Gerd Geßner were drawn that afternoon by the lucky fairy Gudrun Koppers. The first prize, stylishly presented in a golden bag from Buckingham Place, was won by Ulrike Rüttger-Simmers. The second prize went to Karen Kastein. The third prize went to Rudi Weber, and the consolation prize went to Hedwig Schmidt. Ulrich Stille, a member of the German-British Society, had prepared a special Power Point presentation for the anniversary with a detailed photo gallery of the eventful 40 years of the Society's life.

Ralf Rademacher from Bocholt entertained the guests with English songs and ballads. A barbecue buffet and a well-stocked drinks counter provided for the physical well-being of the guests. "Cheers ...Let's celebrate and have a really good time!", with these words Andreas Becker wished all present a wonderful celebration and a good time.

Further information about the German-British Society Bocholt and photos of the 40th anniversary can be found on the society 's website.