A letter written by one of the group members, Charlie, tells us how they held their first public meeting in 1950. The letter was passed on to me by a long-standing A.A. member of East London, ‘Fireman’ Tony. You can read Tony’s story by clicking here
The below article was written in 1952 – The Romford group’s second anniversary. Written by Bill H a regular attendee and original member of the Romford group. His Fruit Exchange that he owned with his brother was used as a phone/helpline for A.A before moving to Redcliffe Gardens. Bill Joined AA on 13 February 1948. He was a member of the Pre-Foundation Committee, partner in Alanon Publications, member of and Chairman of the Central Committee (England and Wales). First Chairman original Group Representatives Committee.
Also, there was an open letter to the Ilford/Romford group.
In 1954 a travelling American called Jim A – was to report on the ‘Health’ of the meetings this side of the pond – see his report on the Romford meeting.
The Ilford/Romford Group held their first public meeting
In 1960 – Ilford/Romford meeting in the local newspaper.
In 1965 – The group got a new venue, see below.
In 1966 Conference to was explained why the GSR role had been created – Bill H was the chairman for the committee until 1970 when he retired – the same time as Alan B who helped set up A.A in Bolton/Manchester etc.
The venue may have changed over the years, but it was regular for many of the area, until it closed its doors around 2014, finishing off at the Salvation Army, Clements Road, Ilford.
East London Archives of Alcoholics Anonymous. 