Hemyock

'The life and soul of the party 'is an expression that could easily be applied to Phyl Kallaway who celebrated her 90th birthday at Chapel Cafe on 11th November. Family and friends ensured a steady stream of visitors throughout the morning as Phyl spent her time meeting and greeting and moving around the tables chatting to everyone. The active and young at heart noctogenarian is well known throughout the parish and surrounding area. Phyl and her late husband, Ken farmed locally and Phyl has been involved in working for a variety of charities over the years, one of which is the Royal British Legion being a collector for the Poppy Appeal, yes, even at 90 she collects door to door! We send her congratulations and wish her many more happy years. Congratulations also go to David and Meg Palmer who have received an award from the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers. The presentation was made at the Business Design Centre, London and David and Meg's award was presented by TV gardener Charlie Dimmock. Their photo can be seen here . David and Meg have done so much for nature conservation it was delightful to hear of this award
and also that David was well enough to be present.

I understand the Armistice Day school assembly taken by the older pupils was a very moving event leaving a number of adults in tears. At the same time this was happening a small gathering met at the War Memorial for a short Act of Remembrance. The previous Sunday had seen St Mary's almost full as the parish joined together to remember those lost in conflict.

Condolences are sent to all those who have recently lost a loved one and these include the McCulloch family on the passing of Beryl, a kind, gentle and very caring lady. Beryl moved to Hemyock in 1955 with farming husband Donald and sons Ian & Richard. She enjoyed music and joining the WI Choir, sang in a number of competitions under the baton of Joan Lawrence. Nursing was her vocation, which she
resumed in 1964 at Nynehead Court, Wellington, until her retirement in 1990. Beryl was a member of Hemyock Bowling Club, a regular at St Marys and also helped with the Sunday School. She also enjoyed dancing. In her latter years, she developed Alzheimers, but still living at home, was able to attend Cameo Club regularly, which she thoroughly enjoyed. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. Beryl
remained at her home until shortly before her death at Robins Close, Wellington on 7 November. She will be missed by many good friends.

Amongst those who have been or are unwell or needed a visit to hospital are Val Palmer, Denis Hart, Margaret and Alan Craig, Sylvia and Leonard Manley, Tim Hannaford, Olive and Tim Goodman, David Palmer and David Sherwood. We send them all good wishes

Once again the Scout Group managed to fill the parish hall and two marquees with the usual assortment of goods for their annual sale raising a considerable amount of money for their funds. It is amazing that after so many years this event still manages to attract so many buyers that a queue forms before the doors open! Next year the group will be welcoming once again their Danish counterparts from Tonder as the youngsters and leaders renew friendships as they enjoy camping and home hospitality together.

The first weekend of December sees St Mary's Christmas Fair and the following day Christingle services. These are always a delight as families gather together for the late afternoon service when candles held in oranges are lit reminding us that Christ is the Light of the World. One of the most endearing carol services is that organised by the school and held at St Mary's. This year it on Wednesday 16th December at 11a.m. and is open to all - do go along if you are able and enjoy the variety of carols the children sing.

We all find ourselves dealing with the busyness that we have in the weeks leading up to Christmas and for some the day itself sees us on the go as meals are prepared and endless gifts unwrapped so I was interested to read of a 7 year old boy who was asked in a survey what "love" means. He replied "Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen". Out of the mouths of babes........

Part of a poem by Iris Hesselden reads: Here's to the old year and here's to the new ....... A world filled with harmony, peace for mankind, With bounty for sharing, and want hard to find ..... go forward with  courage, no doubt or dismay, The future is waiting, beginning today

To all readers of the Pump whether at home or far away, and particularly to all those who will spend their first Christmas without a loved one and to all who have family or friends serving in the Armed Forces, we send all good wishes for a safe and peaceful Christmas and New Year.

Janice Bawler