FESTIVE FISTICUFFS MAR OLD FOLKS' LUNCH

Christmas, as everyone knows, is the season of peace and goodwill. Or, at least, that’s how it should be. But for those invited to this year’s Old Folks’ Christmas Lunch, neither of those fine ideals was much in evidence.

The incident took place on Christmas Day, while turkey was being served to 40 senior citizens at Froghill’s British Legion Hall.

“I was just helping a gentleman to some breast,” said volunteer server Janice Birtles, “when I heard the sound of raised voices. I turned and saw one old man punch another on the nose. I was so surprised that I accidentally poured the contents of the gravy boat onto an old lady’s head.”

For Albert Digwell (83), and Ted Owen (79), it was a case of cherchez la femme.

“He insulted my sweetheart,” said Mr Digwell, a retired fireman and war veteran, who lives in the sheltered accommodation on Crumshall Lane. Mr Owen, it seems, had made a slighting remark about Minnie Bannister, a Froghill resident and long-time friend of Mr Digwell.

“He called her a bow-legged old slapper,” continued Mr Digwell. “I told him to take the remark back, but he wouldn’t. So I hit him. I was defending a lady’s honour!”

The disturbance didn’t stop there however, as Mr Owen struck back with his walking stick. As the two continued to trade blows, others seated nearby started joining in.

“It was amazing, and it all happened so fast,” said Ms Birtles. “One minute all the old folks were enjoying their lunch, the next minute everyone was shouting and punching each other.”

Ms Birtles, whose apron was torn in the fracas, rushed to the nearest phone and called the police.

As a result of the incident, Mr Owen was found to be suffering from slight concussion. He was taken to Froghill General and kept in overnight for observation. Mr Digwell, meanwhile, was taken to Swansdike Road police station for questioning. He was later released with a caution.

Reflecting on the events of the day, Mr Digwell admitted to an Observer reporter that he “may have had one or two whiskies” before setting off for the lunch.