Newton Poppleford thespian celebrates 80th birthday and 80 years in Am Drams

THESPIANS from amateur dramatic groups across the Sid Valley and East Devon joined in to wish Masquerade founder Ken Davis a happy 80th birthday on Sunday.

A birthday lunch was organised by Ray Pickworth, Ken’s partner of 52 years, at Sidbury village hall, attended by 86 friends. Ken said: “Ray and I have been responsible for more than 80 shows, either playing in, directing, stage managing over 52 years in the amateur theatre.”

The duo met at a drama group in North London and over the years they have made many friends in ‘amdrams’.

Groups represented on Sunday were The Old Bull and Bush Music Hall Co.,TIPPS of Tipton St. John, Exeter Drama Group, SADS, Budleigh Salterton Players, Idle Theme Theatre Co., Jolly Jack’s War Co., Masquerade, Riverside Players, SACOS., Sidmouth Musical Comedy Group and The Stan Hacking Band.

“So many guests arrived at the same time with gifts that it was impossible to thank them all at the time. In fact we received �100 in donations to FORCE, the Exeter based cancer charity,” said Ken.

A card, signed by everyone there, was presented to Alec Fellows-Bennett, wishing him luck as he joins the Old Vic Theatre, Bristol, and for his current show, Iolanthe, which runs at the Manor Pavilion Theatre until tomorrow (Saturday).