Memories of the Dennis Bros Christmas Party

Published on: 21 Dec, 2024
Updated on: 24 Dec, 2024

David Reading (left) at the Dennis Bros Christmas party more than 70 years ago. Do any Dragon readers have memories to share about this annual event?

By David Reading

For hundreds of Guildford children, one of the highlights of the festive season many years ago was the Dennis Bros’ Christmas party. It took place every January and was the company’s way of offering an annual treat to the children of its employees.

I was reminded of this recently when I unearthed a photo taken on January 3, 1953 – when I was five years old. I am pictured with a couple of fellow party-goers sending a toy racing car careering down a track.

An entire hall at the Dennis factory in Midleton Road (the old A3) was devoted to fairground-style rides, and this was what made the party so memorable – along with the party food and entertainments. The rides included a train and a slide – hardly on the scale of Thorpe Park but expectations weren’t so unrealistically high as they are now.

I lived in a small semi opposite the factory but if you lived further away you’d be picked up by coach, a name tag was pinned to your coat and off you’d go for a great afternoon out.

Perhaps there are Dragon readers who have their own memories of the Dennis Christmas party – and maybe some photos.

Responses to Memories of the Dennis Bros Christmas Party

Sheila Atkinson Reply

December 22, 2024 at 9:01 pm

I was never lucky enough to attend any large Christmas children’s parties. However, I enjoyed helping at Cow and Gate childrens parties when I worked for them. Our children were invited to parties at Burymead House organised by the CEGB sports ans social club and I used to go along to help.
Sheila Newton Reply

December 25, 2024 at 2:12 pm

I remember going to 2 or 3 Dennis Christmas parties. It was always a bit of an ordeal for me as I never knew any of the other children – many went to a different primary school. So I had to find someone to sit with and talk to. There was no need to find a companion to go on the train or slide with, though (loved them!), just for the tea and the entertainment.

It was always a good party, with nice gifts distributed at the end. I have a photo taken of me sitting for the entertainment one year.