Memories of the Dennis Bros Christmas Party

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