Raymond Wood has been a long-term supporter and Friend of the Rendezvous since the 1990s so we were delighted to be able to help out when he celebrated his 90th birthday in September.

Over the years Raymond has championed our cause and raised thousands of pounds for charity through his much-loved and well-attended jazz concerts in the Cheap Street Church.

It was no surprise then that Raymond went all out on his 90th birthday to put together a really special night for his fellow jazz afficionados with a tremendous programme of jazz, a picnic, refreshments and of course cake for all 180 people who attended.

A team of Rendezvous volunteers and staff lent a hand with refreshments and we’re grateful to those who helped until late into the night and of course to Norma and Yve and Mac Lafosse for their expert guidance and Geoff Gardner who managed the sound tech so marvellously and his wife Penny.

The evening’s success is a testament to how highly Raymond is regarded by the local (and some not so local) community – and their love of jazz.

Happy birthday Raymond and thank you for all your support over the years – your generosity and hard work has made a difference to many young people over the years.