Theatre Play & Lifeboat Presentation – Bognor Regis Observer – Wednesday, 16 May 1934

Journey's End. A company of Selsey players gave repeat performances of "Journey's End," the world-famous war play by R. C. Sherriff, at the Pavilion on Tuesday and Wednesday last. The play, which was produced by Mrs. Reid Jamieson and Lieut-Col. W. G. Moore, was presented in aid of the needs of the R.N.L.I. As on the previous occasions, this drama was excellently produced, but there was a slight change in the cast Lieut-Col. W. G. Moore taking the part of Stanhope. originally undertaken by Mr. Nelson Hoar, who has left the district, and Mr. E. E. Vince taking the part of Trotter, previously taken by Mr. Forrest. At the close of the performance an Tuesday night, a presentation, in the form of a picture of a lifeboat, was made to Mr. J. E. Francis (Secretary of the Selsey lifeboat), on behalf of the R.N.L.I. in recognition of his many years' service in connection with the Selsey lifeboat. Col. R. J. P. Wyatt, Organising Secretary for the South-Eastern Area, R.N.L.I., was present and thanked the cast and all concerned for the splendid production on behalf of his Society, and he handed the picture to Mr. E. G. Arnell. J.P., to present. In making the presentation, Mr. E. G. Arnell said that Mr. Francis came to Selsey some years ago and they soon recognised that he had the real "lifeboat" spirit, the voluntary spirit. The picture was a small token of the esteem of the R.N.L.I. for the services he had rendered it. As Mr. Francis received the picture, the whole company sang. "For he's a jolly good fellow". Returning thanks, Mr. Francis said the picture would go with him wherever he went. As they all knew, he was very interested in lifeboats and he was always willing to do what he could for such a good cause. He thanked the local Committee and the crew for all they had done and the British Legion in coming forward, when it was found that "The Middle Watch" could not be produced.