Vera was always an active and enthusiastic member, having joined the company when it began in 1972 asking if there was anything she could do. She was our most glamorous tea lady and an even more glamorous front of house programme seller. No one got past her without buying a programme!

She was a fun lady, always first on the dance floor at dinner dances and ensuring everyone bought raffle tickets. Although ill health forced her to retire from 'active duty' for the company in recent years it still difficult to believe she was 92 years old - we will always remeber her as being young at heart.

Desmond Rose

Desmond was resident Musical Director of the Company since the first production Glamorous Night in June 1973 right up to Orpheus' in 2000.

During his musical career he was a professional conductor at most of the leading provincial theatres and presented a Voice and Brass series on BBC Radio Brighton featuring local brass band and amateur operatic societies.

For WLOC he was renowned for his enthusiasm to provide the best possible score and often re-orchestrated parts to fit the smaller bands. He will be fondly remembered by the Company, especially for his famous 'Desmond re-writes' of chorus music for show finales and, of course, for singing from the pit!