Greetings on this beautiful Summer’s afternoon!
Such a joy to be at Lambourn CE primary school earlier this morning for Sports Day in which all children had an opportunity to participate. The spectators enjoyed the large number of races and activities so well organized by Rachel (the Principal) and her staff. It was a delight for families to gather together in the beautiful grounds to cheer on the competitors. There was a super atmosphere, great sportsmanship and encouragement along with many, many smiles on the faces of the children. And it was all rounded off by a mass picnic!
The school has many events coming up as the end of term approaches so it was especially wonderful that they made time for the school council to undertake a litter pick walk through the village earlier in the week. This was done in honour of our much-loved village friend George Bodman whose funeral took place on Thursday afternoon.
The sun shone for George’s funeral and as his coffin was carried into church the sight of all the village flowers in the churchyard was a great tribute to him. Amongst them was one from the staff and children of the school that Christine and I found especially moving as it later lay at the graveside. In the gospel reading this Sunday we hear Jesus ask ‘Who is our neighbour’. It seems most fitting when we remember how George was a true friend and neighbour to so many.
The photo of the school’s floral tribute is on the Pews News this week to reflect all the tributes made on Thursday. And I think there will be quite a few more in the next edition of Village Views so look out for them!
As many of you may know, George enjoyed playing the organ, just as his father had done in the local Methodist church so I thought I would share that the Cromwell Singers’ will be hosting a fund raising concert ,‘Music for a Summer Afternoon’ in the Methodist Church Newbury tomorrow, Saturday July 9th 3pm. It will be in aid of Newbury Cancer Care, who are responsible for the Rainbow Rooms at West Berks hospital and tickets cost £10 on the door.
You will just have time to go along to St James Eastbury for the Butterfly Count St. James 12.30 till 13.00 p.m. before the concert. There will be identification guides and friendly faces to help you out as we spot butterflies. Do come along and make it a family outing – all welcome!
https://butterfly-conservation.org/our-work/recording-and-monitoring/irecord-butterflies
And finally . . . continuing the theme of caring for creation – the blessing of the Lambourn W.I. Centenary Tree will be at 4pm, Monday 11th July 2022 with a welcome from Maxine Knott, President of Lambourn W.I. who will share all about the tree with an unveiling of the plaque to commemorate the WI centenary. Once again all are welcome!
With every blessing for the week ahead
Julie