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Last week Pendle Ladies Luncheon Club celebrated its 70th anniversary with a special lunch at the Tempest Arms in Elslack.

Established in 1954 by six visionary women who met at the Lord Nelson Hotel in Nelson, the club has grown into a vibrant social organization with a current membership of 80, and a waiting list due to its popularity.

The club’s story began on November 5, 1954, when the founders, each tasked with inviting ten friends, gathered to organize what has become a cherished tradition.

Their inaugural guest speaker, Monica Baldwin, addressed the December meeting with a talk titled "Life in a Convent." Reflecting the times, the ladies donned hats and gloves and marked their table places with gloves—a practice now fondly remembered as part of their history.

Photograph shows the committee and guest speaker, (pictured R to L): Mrs. Vanessa Osborn, Lucy Adlington, Judith Mason, Mrs. Marjorie Payne, Mrs. Margaret Bainbridge, Mrs. Stephanie Beardsworth, Mrs. Christine Lister, Mrs. Christine Farrington, and Mrs. Marie Foulds.

From its early days to the present, the club has remained dedicated to being a purely social event, funded by members' annual subscriptions to host an eclectic array of guest speakers.

On the day of the anniversary, 68 members attended the celebratory lunch. The guest speaker, Lucy Adlington, from History Wardrobe, delighted the audience with her talk, "Party Frocks and Birthday Cakes," showcasing a stunning collection of 20th-century dresses and accessories.

Her engaging presentation celebrated the history of fashion, perfectly aligning with the club’s milestone event.The event was led by Mrs. Vanessa Osborn, the club’s chairman, who introduced the speaker.

Mrs. Stephanie Beardsworth, one of the organising secretaries, gave the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to Lucy Adlington and the members who have supported the club’s journey over seven decades.

The club meets on the third Thursday of each month from October to March, at The Tempest Arms. With a membership that remains strong and vibrant, it continues to bring women together for fellowship, learning, and laughter.

If you are interested in joining the waiting list for the club, please contact Marjorie Payne on 01282 776998

Pendle luncheon club which began life at the Lord Nelson celebrates 70th anniversary