Alfriston

KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON: '˜Your Courage, Cheerfulness, Your Resolution Will Bring Us Victory'. These words today seen on, mugs, phone covers and tea towels were drawn in 1939 to prepare for the Second World War. A war coming so soon after the First World War, mental preparation and morale boosting was required. Today, July 1, is the centenary of the beginning of the Battle of The Somme, a five month period of bloodshed ending with one million British, dominion, French and German killed or wounded. Men who stood up and believed that their sacrifice would secure freedom and democracy for all. A day prior, Sussex played its part with a suicidal diversionary tactic creating the element of surprise for the following day, the Battle of Boars Head known as '˜The Day That Sussex Died' has been remembered by the village yesterday with the sounding of our Bells. To remember the sacrifice of all who dies in The Great War you are invited to a Memorial Service at St Andrews, 10.45am today, weather permitting around the flag for a raising to half-mast and lowering of standards. There will also be a quiet day in St Andrews tomorrow (Saturday) remembering and giving thanks.

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Alfriston news

RESTORATION: The bells have rung from St Andrews Tower since 1390, what events they must have seen. To ensure they continue to ring numerous events have taken place, Coffee Mornings, Garden Openings, Film Showings, Arts and Crafts events, a Labyrinth Festival and musical evenings. All parts of the village have come together, irrespective of faith to save the Cathedral of The Downs for future generations. The appeal has raised £19,000 since the launch in April. More fabulous events are planned with dates for the diary. Keep an eye on the village website and this column www.alfriston-village.co.uk If you are still unclear about the history of this wonderful building, church tours are frequently given by Local Historian Kevin Gordon. He will be at Alfest from noon

ALFEST: Saturday July 9, 11am to 10pm. Music, Food and Drink Festival located on the Tye. In aid of the restoration, a relaxed day with fabulous food, ale and entertainment is promised.

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TEAS AND TABLES: July 23, 11am to 3pm St Andrews. The horticultural society will be pouring the tea and handing out cake chatting about all the reasons to get involved or visit their Annual Summer Show. They will also be on hand to give advice on gardens, allotments, bee-keeping and wildlife support. Pop along, all refreshment donations go to the restoration appeal.

CLERGY HOUSE: The Clergy House vegetable garden is looking fabulous at the moment as are the roses. There are two informative walks you can join one today (Friday) entitled Barrows, Belfries and Bogarde to Lullington Church and the next Tuesday July 5 why not Walk, Talk and Sketch on a summer walk with experts. For prices and further information or to book on these limited space walks please phone 01323 871961.

WI: Our Vision is Their Vision, WI Tuesday July 19, 2pm The Old Chapel Centre. Come along and listen to David Goldsmith talk about the work of the Andean Medical Mission a UK charity who carry out sight saving eye surgery. They organise, build and manage eyecare services in remote regions of the Bolivian and Andean mountains, helping Bolivian doctors with training and equipment. This will be a fascinating insight and open to all with donations as always welcome. June’s meeting For What it’s Worth was well attended. Janie Ramsey, an antiques expert gave members an insight into the workings of the trade.

FLOG IT: September 25, 10am to 4pm. Cakes, Crafts and Collectables at the Old Chapel Centre. In addition to stalls of collectables and crafts the highlight of the day will be a valuation service by Eastbourne Auctions. 50p per item valued. If you decide to sell your item at auction the commission raised will be donated to the Restoration Appeal, so dig deep in your attics and sheds ready for September.

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SUMMER PICNIC SHOW: Saturday July 9, The Old Chapel Centre 8pm with lots of time to picnic beforehand and enjoy Alfest. Renowned Folk Duo Katherine Roberts and Sean Lakeman will be playing a great set full of vim vigour, wit and wisdom. Booking in person at Hailsham Pavilion or by phone 01323 841414. Tickets £16.

SUMMER MUSIC FESTIVAL: More wit and wisdom is planned for the Summer Music Festival. Some of the finest International Artists will be visiting our very special village, July 26 to July 31. Including two of Britain’s finest actors Timothy West and Prunella Scales, Trio Apache, Harry The Piano, Callum Smart, Alfriston Ensemble. Tickets can be obtained online www.alfristonsummermusic.co.uk or email [email protected]. Leaflets and booking forms can be picked up throughout the village including Deans Place Hotel and Much Ado Books. The music will play on, there is so much to celebrate and enjoy during uncertain times. Stop being afraid of what could go wrong and start getting excited about what could go right.

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