What a wonderful, fun community afternoon, enjoyed by everyone who came, and there were a lot of people there, ranging from long-time residents to new arrivals.
There are so many people to thank for their efforts:
Sue & Chris Dudman, Brenda Phillips and Toni Green for bringing and displaying such a wide range of documents, newspaper cuttings and photographs of the village. We are so lucky that they look after all this material and make it available for us to see. It was clear how fascinated people were by it.
All those who came to set up, serve the teas, tidy up, wash up and clear away.
All those who made such delicious cakes. There was very little left at the end!
To Sheila who took the money.
To the AV specialist (that’s Martin) who managed to make the connection to YouTube work so we could see Brian Verrall’s films – complete with ‘creative’ subtitles courtesy of YouTube. Who knew there were so many different ways to spell Keyzaston House.

Pat Evans – Event Organiser & Village Hall Committee Secretary

 

Tim Fenner and Stephen Allen presented a cheque to The Chestnut Tree Hospice for an incredible £6098.70. 

In addition, an admirable  £212.95 was raised by Chrissie Melhuish and the Carol Singers.

 

 

Here are the letters of thanks from the hospice:

The Charity Christmas Lunch took place on Sunday 7th December at Sutton village hall. Over 80 people from our communities joined in the festive celebrations and to help raise money for the Chestnut Tree House hospice for children and young adults near Arundel.

There was a 3-course lunch, an auction and a raffle. Whilst the weather outside was wet and gloomy, the atmosphere in the hall was very warm and friendly, as neighbours and friends came together to enjoy their first turkey of the Christmas season, along with Christmas puddings and crackers aplenty!

Tim Fenner led the organising and helpers teams superbly. He arranged the support of Alex Sanderson, an experienced chef and secured the use of one of Stephen Shiner’s marquees. Tim was helped by Lisa, Simone, Gavin and David in the kitchen/marquee. Gordon created the Christmas puddings which was quite a feat. Meanwhile running the bar were Tony, Keith and Paul with the raffle managed by Margaret and Duncan. Behind the scenes Martin and Keith managed the bookings and sorted out the all important monies.

The hall was beautifully decorated by Chrissie, Nicky and Sarah, with the centrepiece stage setting designed and set up by Tina. A brilliant view of Father Christmas disappearing up the chimney, as you can see!

Steve was the MC and auctioneer, and thanks to both the generosity of suppliers and locals there were 9 great lots to be sold. The bidding was competitive and lively, with all lots selling well and huge thanks go to all who bid.

The accounts have now been completed, and the team is delighted to share that £6,098 have been raised for the Chestnut Tree House charity. A fantastic achievement and a new record.

Huge thanks to everyone involved. A cracking start to the Christmas season.

Best wishes
Steve

Major James Patrick MVO (Ret’d), Equerry to the Queen, 1992-5, gave a fascinating insider’s view of Her Majesty’s funeral to a packed audience of more than 120 people at the Village Hall.
The aim was to raise funds for the repair of Bignor Church roof.

As one of Her Majesty’s pall bearers and escorts, James was able to describe details which illuminated the human side of the ceremonial. How the many rehearsals all took place overnight and every detail was documented in the Ceremonials. How one of his spurs parted company with his boot, but luckily did not trip up the King who was walking immediately behind him. How thick and heavy the tunics are – he brought his along for us to see. Why the gun carriage was pulled by the Royal Navy and not horses – for fear of the horses being spooked and running off with the carriage. The global TV audience was estimated at 4.1 billion – the largest ever recorded. There were many more tales, too many to mention here.

We gained a sense of the immense amount of planning and preparation which had been needed, but also the care given to the people who had served the Queen and were recognised for their service.

On a lighter note, at the interval, ‘Royal Recipe’ martinis were available and proved very popular, adding to the substantial funds raised.

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Blessed with a glorious evening everyone had a great time at the recent Village Hall Summer Party and enjoyed the songs of Dean Dyson while feasting, drinking and making merry!

 

THANK YOU to all who came to tea and joined in!  Also to those kind people who helped in various ways.

A donation of £150 will be forwarded to the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal on your behalf.

We had a lovely time – we hope you did too.

Brenda, Sue & Chris