In January they marked 40 years of entertainment with a special ruby anniversary pantomime, and last weekend the celebrations continued for members of the Loddon Players with a reunion afternoon tea and a walk down memory lane.

Beccles & Bungay Journal: John Harris, founder of the Loddon Pantomime and Maureen Larkin ,longest serving present member, cutting the celebration cake.John Harris, founder of the Loddon Pantomime and Maureen Larkin ,longest serving present member, cutting the celebration cake. (Image: Archant)

Over 70 people who have been involved with the players over the last 40 years attended the event at the Lecture Hall in Loddon on Saturday, with some members being involved with the first four pantomimes.

Committee members created a party atmosphere with bunting, costumes, photo albums, press cuttings, a photo booth, tombola and a celebration cake.

John Harris, who started the pantomimes in Loddon in 1976, together with Maureen Larkin, the Players’ longest serving active member, cut the cake, which had been made by Jackie Bingham.

Mrs Larkin said: “Everybody who attended said what a lovely time they had and how good it was to meet up with people whose contribution over the years has been so important and much appreciated.”

And as well as staging performances, the Loddon Players have donated more than £75,000 to local and national charities over the years, as well as young members of the group to help them with charitable events and with their chosen careers.

Do you have a Loddon story? Email amy.smith@archant.co.uk