A VARIETY party entertained the people of Evesham on New Year’s Eve 50 years ago.

The Happy Wanderers were well known across the Vale from 1961 to 1966.

The band of amateur entertainers toured the district and even ventured outside it to perform in the Black Country, Bromyard, South Gloucestershire and Banbury.

They had a mix of dancers, singers, comedy and magic with a finale featuring a version of The Black and White Minstrel Show.

The photos from 1962 were taken during preparations at Wallace House in Evesham, the winter base for the crew as they compiled and rehearsed the show.

One of the entertainers, Tony Willoughby, remembers the time fondly as it was through the party he met his wife.

He said: “The minstrels were very popular on TV at that time.

A fee was charged excepting entertaining at old folks’ dinners, which were free.

“For three consecutive years in its life we started our new show at the Public Hall, which we managed fill for three nights, then went out on the road.

“The money raised was donated to various OAP organisations including a dinner funded by us.

We gave TV sets to Avonside Hospital for the older persons’ wards.

“By 1966 it finally closed its activities due to members starting families, and the changing culture of public entertainment.

“Several of the group actually met their future wives and husbands and I am happy to say I was one of those. I am holding the dog which I gained when I married in the photo from 1965.”