Staplecross

Let’s start off this column with a HUGE ‘Thank You’ to all the staff at the Brickwall Hotel & Restaurant in Sedlescombe. I know that it’s not within the parish of Ewhurst, but the resident is. Marjorie Alecock from Cripps Corner celebrated her 100th Birthday there, a few days ago and what a wonderful time she had. Surrounded by all her family, including her extended step family, all the stops were pulled out to give this remarkable lovely lady a very special day. Flowers and ‘phone calls from across the world came from friends unable to join her, which just added to the joy of her day. The sun ( and the heat) came out for all the many photo’s taken within the beautiful surroundings of this first class charming hotel. Naturally, all the Great Grand~Children made the most of this time enjoying themselves outside, without the ‘old folk’s !. The sumptuous menu culminated with the cutting of a beautiful cake, specially made by her Grand~daughter Kirsty and the staff which were not only attentive and caring, coming out and singing “Happy Birthday” to her. This was certainly a day to remember for all the family, for a long time to come.

Another birthday party is planned for a more well known resident of Staplecross on SATURDAY 6th JULY. These celebrations are for Molly Monk, who will be reaching the grand age of 70. This very popular and well known lady, until quite recently, used to be the licensee of The Cross Inn, in Staplecross, where these festivities will be held. Friends of Molly Monk would like to invite you to join them for a day of fun and frivolity .Whisky Business with the beautiful Lucy Radford Earle will perform at 4pm and from 8.30pm the Amazing SoulXpress will be in action. A Hog Roast will also be available to stave off those hunger pangs. Let’s give Molly a day to remember.

Still in Staplecross, and on the same day,SATURDAY 6th JULY is the Staplecross Primary School Annual Summer Fayre. Held on their own school field between 1pm and 4pm. this event promises to be a wonderful afternoon’s enjoyment for everyone.With lots of attractions, side stalls and various entertainments to tempt, enthral or challenge the visitors, there is sure to be something for everybody. There are lots of activities to ensure the more energetic visitors are kept happy, and lots of tempting refreshments ( and chairs) for those who, after perusing all that’s on offer, will be happy to watch them from a more relaxed position! A lot of hard work always goes into events of this kind so come along and support the children and staff alike and help make this a great success. There’s really, something for everyone at this Summer Fayre, so come along , enjoy yourself and have fun.

Ewhurst Parish Council will be meeting on THURSDAY 11th JULY at 7.30pm. These meetings, held at St. Mark’s Church Room, Northiam Road,Staplecross are open to the public and press.Come along and see what we are endeavouring to achieve on your behalf. Put forward your ideas, or suggestions or comments, and have your say during the ‘ Public Open Question Time’. Look for the big banner outside and come in.

The recent news regarding the contractor working on the affordable housing scheme adjacent to St.Marks Church car park, came as a big shock to Ewhurst Parish Council and residents alike. Hastoe Housing Association and Rother District Council, together, worked quickly to secure the services of a new contractor in order to complete this little development of much needed homes.Progress has been made and work has now restarted on this project which will hopefully turn an idle contruction site into a charming village asset and bring new life and families into the village

Those dedicated people at Brede High Woods, along at Cripps Corner, are very busy folk. Friday July 12sees another Moth Trapping Day. Commencing at 8.45pm this event will give you an insight into these often much-maligned insects with guidance from a skilled tutor.The meeting place for those who wish to take part will be in the Old Car Park, For more information and in the event of adverse weather conditions, please contact Heather to check whether this meeting will still go ahead. You can reach her on: [email protected]

The following day, that’s Saturday July 13 between 10am and 1pm. sees another invitation to enjoy the great outdoors amidst beautiful surroundings. Join Martin Felstead for a wonderful Summer Wildlife Walk. Again, this will be an expert led walk to discover and identify local woodland wildlife. Come for a walk in these special, and amazing, ancient Brede High Woods to experience the many signs of summer.It’s surprising just what you’ll learn. This lovely morning out is open to all, but especially ideal for families.It is also a free event but numbers will be limited, so for more information and to book, please contact Martin Felstead either on 0845~2935734 or email him on: [email protected] So, turn off the TV. Put on your walking shoes and share precious family time in the free, fresh air. What could be better than that ? Wonderful !.

Church Services within the Parish will once more be taken by Reverend Gordon Winchester. on Sunday July 7 (Trinity 6) the service will only be at St.James the Great, Ewhurst Green, commencing at 9.30am with Holy Communion. No service at St.Marks in Staplecross on that day. The following Sunday July 14 (Trinity 7) there will be a church service at St James the Great, Ewhurst Green at 9.30am with Holy Communion (BCP) followed with a Morning Praise church service at St.Marks, Staplecross beginning at 11.15am.

Whatever you decide to do in the days ahead, have a wonderful time out and about and enjoy all that’s on offer.Don’t forget to let me know of all events, parties, fetes, concerts,charity do’s, open gardens,~ in fact any items of interest that you have planned, or are planning, that you’d like to see publicized and I’ll do my best to get them ‘aired’ . Please allow at least two weeks or so, prior to the event, in order to fully maximize the coverage.