ALTON’S popular monthly Library Club for seniors were joined by several new members this month when a double, or even triple, set of celebrations was added to the usual programme of readings and lively conversation.

A fortnight after the nationally recorded event, Bob Weighton’s 109th birthday was marked with a magnificent three-tier and incredibly detailed book cake, kindly donated by Theresa Prichard of Party Cakes at the Lavender Farm.

Bob has been a member for the past seven years since the club was founded by Britain’s first Anna Chaplain, Debbie Thrower, who joined the crowd for this special celebration.

She handed over the chaplaincy, and the running of the club, to Helen Jesty three years ago.

And it was fitting that Helen’s final public event before her retirement was with her many friends at the Library Club.

Bob, who has hosted meetings of the Anna Chaplaincy support group, paid a heartfelt tribute to Helen for her work with, and sincere care for, the senior citizens of the town, and those in residential homes.

Helen was presented with an olive tree, and various gifts, bouquets and cards from members, by Peta Sutherland, delegated by Helen last year to continue running the club.

She then thanked everyone, saying how much she had enjoyed her time in the town and that she was grateful to have learned so much from older people who, she felt, still had a great deal of wisdom to give.

Her successor as Alton’s new Anna Chaplain, Rachel Sturt, was presented with Rosemary plants and welcomed, saying she looked forward to working in the area.