Home , Officers , Membership , Interests , The Wolfpack , Articles , Archives , Past Events , Links. Members Area
  A NEW ZEALANDER'S PERSPECTIVE OF THE A.G.M.  

Travelling from Upper Bucklebury along the motorways to the International Relf Society's 15th AGM is an experience in itself for someone from the quieter South Pacific, but picture the scene from the brow of the hill on the A21, with the much talked about rolling hills of Sussex spread out before you. This morning, highlighted by mist, as far as the eye could see. I could hear the strains of that march “Sussex, Sussex by the sea…….” which my grandfather, William David Relf turned full volume whenever it came on the radio. Perhaps there was some homesickness there.

For me, this trip had taken a lifetime to happen. We were a small Relf branch out in the islands of New Zealand, knowing of only one other family with the same name, so it was a great thrill to meet another sixteen Relfs at dinner on Friday night held at the Lamb Inn, Wartling, Near Herstmonceux. The chef provided a beautiful meal and the conversation was about Relf connections.

Our Saturday AGM was held at the very impressive Ashburnham Place at Ashburnham. Our more humble church hall had been set up the day before with family trees and documents for members to use. Captain Chris Relf presided over 28 members and very competent First Mate Tina French and her assistants made sure everyone was fed and watered from morning tea at 10am to lunch and afternoon tea. The trip to Penhurst Manor, was enhanced by a talk from the warden, Richard Hann. We also included a hunt through the gravestones for any possible Relfs. Then back to the bus to return through the narrow lanes back to Ashburnham Place for “The Photograph” on the steps of Ashburnham Hall.

Thank you everyone for your warmth and welcome. I would hope to be able to return at some future date.

Yvonne Relf #33

Return to top
Return to top

E-mail to Yvonne Relf

Page last revised October 2005.

© International Relf Society .
Home , Officers , Membership , Interests , The Wolfpack , Articles , Archives , Past Events , Links. Members Area