Magic Lantern Show

On 4 December members and friends of the High Country History Group enjoyed a special evening given by Richard Rigby, Secretary of the Magic Lantern Society. Richard and his wife, dressed in costume, took the audience back to the days before wireless and television showing a variety of slides dating from the Edwardian era and before using a contemporary projector. Members saw a comedy slide show of a short and tall man going on a picnic only to be chased by a tiger; the traveller in bed at Epping, who when he snored swallowed a rat - it causing outrage to the sensitive Victorians; scenes of London and a story warning of the dangers of 'The Bottle'. Seasonal refreshments were served and profits for this ticket event were divided between the Essex Air Ambulance and Haven Hospice.

Magic Lantern Evening Charities

The "Magic Lantern Evening" held at Toot Hill Village Hall on Thursday, 4 December, raised money for two charities. Haven House Children's Hospice, Woodford Green, and the Essex Air Ambulance both received donations of £80. Richard Rigby and his wife, who staged the evening, are to be thanked for their generosity in the presentation.