The morning of Saturday, September 4th dawned fine and sunny, sausage rolls wafting their delicious aroma round the kitchen, fresh rolls bought from the bakers. Picnic prepared, chairs in the car and come early afternoon off we went, the venue being Sir Harold Hillier Gardens for The Last Night of the Proms. There were lots of smiling faces to greet us from the village which was great to see, also friends of Paul and Marilyn’s, so we all took up quite a space. Great views of the stage as the lawn gently sloped down enabling everyone to see perfectly. Picnics enjoyed all round accompanied by the occasional popping of a cork! Amongst lots of chatter and friendly banter. The concert performed by Southampton Concert Orchestra started with the very rousing Dambusters March, all very thrilling. After a short interval 633 Squadron lead the way for the rest of the concert drawing to a close with the good old favourites, Rule Britannia, Pomp & Circumstance and finally Jerusalem. The fireworks in the background lighting up the sky brought the evening to an end. A thoroughly enjoyable afternoon and evening had by all, everyone still buzzing as we made our way slowly back, hoping to find their cars without too much delay in the darkness! Thank you, Marilyn, for organizing this for us all, brilliant.
Book group on Friday 10th was held in Shona’s lovely garden, great coffee and delicious cakes made by Martha and Marilyn, also lots of cuddles with baby Leon. So sad to have missed the morning, sounded wonderful. However, a great write-up by Susie. Everyone enjoyed reading the book, including myself as I took it on hols with me. Beautifully written, almost poetic. Timeless, well-constructed moral dilemma. So very powerful for such a small book. Received a score of 8. “The Peal” by John Steinbeck.
Sunday 19th at 4.30, gathered around the entrance of Holy Trinity Church at Ashe, were 14 dogs accompanied by their owners along with the rest of the congregation for a Pet Service. As we stood in the sunshine, Rev. James gave a delightful service, also blessed each dog in turn, who were all very well-behaved. We sang two hymns, where we were joined by a beautiful Alsatian’s dulcet tones! wonderful.
Coffee & Cake on Monday 20th at the village hall was in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. The weather was great so tables and chairs were also outside as well as in. Pretty vases of garden flowers were on each table, bunting dotted around. Fabulous variety of delicious homemade cakes to choose from along with coffee to be taken amongst friends and family. Even a delivery driver popped in for a takeaway slice of cake and gave a donation on his way out. What a great turn out, everywhere buzzing with the sound of chatter and smiling faces, wonderful, 2 hours never went so very quickly! Well done all, what a fabulous few hours. Over £500 was raised, £481.38 cash with at least £30 in QR donations and of course Gift Aid on top of that. Brilliant, thank you all who helped in any way, Chris for organizing this great event and of course for you all coming and donating so generously.
Singing has now continued back in the village hall, great, with Harvest Service to look forward to, plus the odd song that will sure to arrive for “Wind in the Willows” panto next March! Yes, it is back again folks, Yippee I hear you shout… Lots to look forward to. Enjoy this extended summer weather as we head for hopefully a lovely autumn.