Christmas Lunch
The Society's Christmas Buffet Lunch was
again held at the Whimple Cricket
Club and was well supported by over 50 members. They were treated
to an
excellent buffet prepared by Cottage Country Caterers. After the
buffet members
were entertained by Orchard Harmony. This was followed by the Christmas
raffle.
The December Heritage Lottery Draw winners were: .
1st prize - Mrs. C. Rees-Ward
2nd prize- Mrs. P. Perkins
3rd Prize - Mr. B. Giles
Despite the increase in cost due to using outside caterers, the
Christmas Lunch continues to be a success. The Committee is already
considering the programme for next year on Saturday 10th December.
Wassailing
Wassailing in 2011 was almost a case of 'deja
vu' for the second time. The
weather again started out as most disconcerting with rain for the
hours before Wassailing.
Before the procession moved off, Mr. Ed Hitchcock spoke of the sad
loss to
the community by the sudden death of the landlord of the New Fountain
Inn, Mr.
Paul Mallett, a true villager and a loyal and generous supporter
of the History
Society. The Society was indebted to Mrs. Gill Mallett and her family
for opening
the pub at this most sad time.
However, undaunted by the weather a group of about ninety stalwart
wassailers started out from the New Fountain Inn just after 7.00
p.m. and the skies cleared !!!! Mr. Ed Hitchcock led the procession
and executed his duties as master ; of ceremonies with his flambouyant
style and gusto. The Queen, Miss Chloe Betts and Princess Miss Leah
Young, performed their tasks with great confidence. Again this year,
and hopefully in years to come, the Princess was chosen as a result
of a competition held at the local school.The music was provided
by Jim Causley and his friends. A special thanks is due to Jim who
led the singing with his usual enthusiasm on a very damp evening.
Ceremonies were conducted at sites kindly provided by Mr. &
Mrs. I. Hardcastle, Mrs. M. Burrough and Mr. J & Miss M. Chard
as well as at the tethering stone in the Village Square. We were
unable to use Mr. Bowden's orchard due to the rising flood waters
and the slippery nature of the wooden bridge.
The festivities continued at the Whimple Cricket Club with a traditional
Wassail Supper kindly provided by Mrs. J. Smith and her willing
band of helpers. The Committee would like to express their thanks
to her and her helpers for all their efforts.
