Hemyock

'A tangerine and russet cascade of kaleidoscopic leaves creates a tapestry of autumn magic upon the emerald carpet of fading summer' writes J. Lindberg.  One of the great joys of living in the countryside is that this is something we may see every day as we move through the coming months. Yes, our summer may have appeared wet and miserable but we have many things to be grateful for not least the natural glories of the Blackdown Hills. By the time this appears we shall have had the chance to celebrate Harvest, to give thanks for all those who help supply our daily food remembering especially the work of our farming community and to remember that "All good gifts around us are sent from heav'n above." Autumn is also a time when many young people leave home to begin life at university. We wish them all good luck and every success . From our house we say farewell to Hollie Pinder who has been a wonderful baby sitter and send her all good wishes as she starts this new phase of her life.

Over the past weeks there have been many folk who have been or are still unwell. Amongst them are Sinclair Lowman, Dora Hole, Olive and Tim Goodman, Norman Farley, Richard Pring, Steven Reed, Chris Dracott, Brian Redwood, Shirley Hart, Eddie Tartaglia, Elsie Hook and Alice Doble.

Sadly there have also been a number of deaths including Vera Jenkins, Eva Tottle and Frank Cavanaugh. Many people will have know Jack Shire of Wellington but born at Symonsborough. Jack had been an officer and mainstay of St John's Ambulance Brigade and with them had attended numerous events at Hemyock including fetes, motor scrambles and carnivals.

Many people continue to remember all the above as well as others who mourn and love and prayers are sent to them and their families.

It was a joy for those at St Mary's to welcome Rev Jenny Green along with Hannah and Joseph to a morning service. Jenny is on leave from Uganda and it was both humbling and inspiring to hear of the work she is carrying out there amongst children and young people and the continuing growth and success of the Potters Village. Many will be aware that Brian is again in Uganda. His love for the country and people along with the many projects he is involved with along with his faith and sheer determination that they should succeed has inspired many to offer both financial and prayerful support.

John and Karen Pinder are amongst those who have recently had a reason to celebrate - their 25th wedding anniversary. They do though have a long way to go to catch Fred and Joan Lawrence who in August celebrated their 65th anniversary. Congratulations to all.

One of the best places to see the cyclist speeding through the village as they took part in stage 3 of the Tour of Britain race had to be along Culmstock Road.  School children and staff could be seen waving their flags and cheering on the competitors with great enthusiasm. One young lad was overheard to say to an adult that it had been really exciting. Agreeing with him she commented on how fast they had been cycling to which he replied "No, Miss, not the cyclist the Police bikes and cars" Without exception every Officer had acknowledged the children with lights flashing, sirens blaring, arms waving and occasionally tricks being performed. An excellent PR exercise!

Congratulations to local business Devon and Somerset Hampers who was asked to supply one of their hampers to be presented to the winner at Burnham on Sea.

Heritage Sunday saw a steady stream of visitors to the various displays at the parish church and castle which varied from old church and school records to photographs and handicrafts including a fine display of patchwork and embroidery skills. Music and teas along with the chance to see the Christmas cards that will be available from photographs taken at last years Tree Festival made for an enjoyable afternoon.

It is good to see the many organisations that close during August reopening including Chapel Café on a Wednesday morning. There are always a large number of regular fund raising events in the last months of the year along with 'something different'. During October and November this includes a 1940's evening, Hank Marvin Show (he used to holiday in Hemyock), Wine Tasting and the 10p Day coffee morning; whilst regular calendar dates include the Scout Group sale, Singers concerts and of course Remembrance Sunday.

Lot's of opportunities to meet friends old and new and to be part of village life. Please keep your news coming.

Janice Bawler
Tel 680352
email jbawler1947@hotmail co.uk