The Betjeman Society’s Wantage branch observed the 40th anniversary of Sir John Betjeman’s passing on 19th May with a tribute ceremony at St. Mary’s Convent in Wantage. The day of remembrance was dedicated to the renowned poet who resided at the Mead in Wantage between 1951 and 1972.
Church Service Tribute to Sir John Betjeman
The day started with a church service led by the venerable David Meara, President of the Betjeman Society. Accompanied by the organist and choir of Wantage Parish Church, the service was held in the serene environment of St Mary’s Convent, providing a touching and fitting homage to the late Sir John. (Image: Ed Nix)
The gathering attracted 51 members and guests, including the Betjeman Society’s founder, Philippa Davies, who traveled from Canterbury, the Chair and Vice Chair of the Betjeman Society, and members from Derbyshire, Surrey, and London, as well as 40 members of the Wantage Branch.
Afternoon Activities
A short tour of the convent, which Sir John was familiar with, followed the lunch. The attendees also got the opportunity to listen to stories about the poet from his friends.
In his poem “Wantage Bells,” Sir John mentions the convent’s chapel, alluding to the serene atmosphere created by the nuns, albeit gloomy, believed to have seen significant improvements in terms of light since. (Image: Pat Mattimore)
Poetry Reading Session
The afternoon continued with poetry readings, including “On Leaving Wantage” recited by the founder of the Wantage Branch, Fr. John Salter, “Joan Hunter Dunn”, and “Slough”. The day’s proceedings concluded with the reading of the enchanting “Trebetherick”.
Secretary Pat Mattimore acknowledged the presence of Sir John’s renowned teddy bear Archie and elephant Jumbo, which added to the celebratory atmosphere. “The artefacts were brought along with the permission of Rupert Lycett Green by Garry Gibbons, former curator of the Tom Brown School Museum in Uffington,” she added.
She expressed her satisfaction with how the day unfolded, stating, “it was agreed by all that we truly did have a really wonderful ‘day to remember’.”
About Sir John Betjeman
Betjeman made a significant contribution to poetry during his time in Wantage. He was honored with the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1969 and was named Poet Laureate in 1972, right before he left Wantage. Sir John Betjeman’s work continues to captivate and inspire, as demonstrated by the outpouring of love and remembrance 40 years after his death.
