When we met 10 years ago, that was to be the last.

No more reunions, stop at the 40th – enough of the past!

But Ellis had other plans, – a 50th Reunion she thought, a rare event.

And so here we are, a wonderful response to all the invites sent!

 

Let’s go back to 1972, and put our memories to the test,

Ted Heath was Prime Minister, 13pence for a pint of the best.

And on TV we watched M.A.S.H., The Waltons, The Price Is Right.

We listened to American Pie, Rocket Man, well into the night.

 

On duty, our uniforms of dress and apron, we wore with such price.

Off duty – maxi dresses, mini skirts, platform shoes, our style we couldn’t hide!

No Sunday opening of shops, and the pubs shut at 10.

It was practice for Lockdown, we just didn’t know it then!

 

Fast forward to 2020, when Corona no longer meant a beer,

The pandemic had arrived, certainly instilling some level of fear!

Social distancing, masks, lockdown – we each coped in our own way,

Tricky times for all, and for those still working, a new challenge every day.

 

Five decades – we’ve seen them all, and hopefully more to complete.

Surviving all the changes in work and home life – no mean feat!

And thank you, Ellis, our 50th year is certainly worthy of a celebration,

But unlike the Platinum Jubilee, we’ll not involve the whole nation!

 

Individually our lives have followed a variety of paths, professional and personal,

But those shared years of long ago still provide a link – really quite exceptional!

So let’s raise our glasses, wish each other well, and celebrate the date.

A 50th Reunion is indeed a rare event, and one to appreciate.

 

Here’s to all of May ’72 PTS, lovely Pelicans!!

Fondly remembering Jeannie and Rea.

 

Written by Elspeth Neilson (nee Allan) for 50th Reunion 2022.