The latest news from Redbridge’s clubs and societies.

Redbridge 18 Plus

Members got lucky when they placed their bets at a dog track.

Group members from all over East Anglia joined the Redbridge group at Coral Romford Greyhound Stadium in London Road, Romford, for its regional social night.

Members enjoyed the “thrilling” races and sponsored one, presenting a trophy to the winning dog’s owner.

Redbridge’s 18 Plus’ Elliot Barclay said: “It was a brilliant night out, with some very exciting races to watch, most of us managing to find a few winners during the evening, and it was great to take part in the trophy presentation.”

The group meets on most Friday nights at Goodmayes Community Centre, Green Lane, Goodmayes, from 8.30pm to 10pm.

Upcoming events include a boating holiday, a trip to Cadbury World and a recreation of the BBC game show Pointless.

Call 020 8553 0947 for more information or visit redbridge18plus.org.uk

Ilford Horticultural Society

Flowers, photography and floral art is to go on display at the group’s spring show on Wednesday, March 25.

Visitors will be able to vote on the best entries in each category before winners are picked.

Exhibits will be judged between 6.30pm and 7.30pm with the doors opening to the general public at 7.30pm.

Peter Warne is also due to give a talk on wildlife at Copped Hall in Epping.

The show takes place at Fullwell Cross Library in High Street, Barkingside.

For more information call 020 8550 4790.

Ilford Historical Society

A childhood during the Blitz was explored as the retired chaplain of Ilford Hospital Chapel went down memory lane last week.

Born in 1932, Father John Barnes talked about life with his family in Newbury Park until he was seven, when the Second World War broke.

He talked about how the whole of Downshall Primary School in Seven Kings was evacuated to Ipswich.

Group chairman Jef Page said: “He saw it as a great adventure as he liked steam trains and couldn’t understand why so many parents were tearful at the parting as they saw their kids off as the trains left from Seven Kings station.”

Fr Barnes spoke of how he and his family left to stay with an uncle in Berkhamsted after he had returned from Ipswich following the start of the Blitz.

Jef said: “His powerful and emotive voice easily held the audience as he recalled his memories. A large audience with many visitors – many of course known to him – were pleased to see him.”

To go to one of the talks at the chapel in Ilford Hill, Ilford, email jef.page100@talktalk.net