Hemyock

The celebration of Heritage Sunday in Hemyock began at the Morning Prayer service at the parish church of St Mary's which was taken by Rev Ron White. The full choral service using the book of Common Prayer included canticles and responses from the Cathedral Psalter, readings from the Alternative Version of the bible and the singing of the anthem 'Let Us Now Praise Famous Men' . Readings were given by Friederike Reed, David Bawler and Rev David Sherwood who also led the prayers using The Litany and gave the sermon.  At the end of the service a basket of flowers was presented to Peter and Friederike Reed whose 50th wedding anniversary was due in the coming week.

The afternoon saw a large number of people visit Hemyock Castle which was also open for the afternoon  and the Heritage displays at the church arranged by the Friends of St Mary's who also served afternoon tea. The displays included photos, writings and memorabillia of village events. These included displays by 1st Hemyock Scout Group and 1st Hemyock Brownies. The Scouts are this year celebrating their 50th year in the village with the Guide movement nationally celebrating their centenary. Photos of Cecil 'Skip' Lowman and Miss Thelma Lowry along with a kneeler given in her memory reminded many of the importance these two people played in the success of the youth organisations both in Hemyock and further afield.
 
Also causing interest were display boards telling of life in the village during WW2 including extracts from a diary of a  lady in her 20's, which were alongside photos and memories from the village celebration of VE and VJ 50th anniversary in 1995: the arrival of evacuees and the work of the then Scout Troop. Visitors were able to admire fine cross stitch work, patchwork and embroidery and enjoy a selection of organ music supplied by Ron White, Nigel Atkinson, Michael Osmond and David Bromwich. The day raised around £200  for the Friends.
 
Whilst not part of Heritage Sunday the day closed with a quarter peal of bells being rung to celebrate Mr and Mrs Reeds anniversary.