Whatlington

Whatlington Remembers: Another very special event was held at the Village Hall last Saturday, August 9th, to commemorate the outbreak of the First World War. Charlotte Moore and Simon White had arranged, firstly, for local author and historian Alan Judd to give an excellent talk on life in Sussex generally and Whatlington in particular back in 1914, and on what the men who went to war would have encountered. In addition to this most interesting general background, Alan told several anecdotes about various people from Whatlington, including his own grandparents, both in the armed forces and those who stayed behind, some of which were very poignant and some had their funny side. The Hall was packed for the occasion and before and after the talk those who came along also greatly enjoyed a really fascinating exhibition of photographs, documents, letters, artefacts and other memorabilia, all lent by local residents, which were beautifully arranged to show various aspects of the war experience, especially - but not only - for those who fought in it. Women were certainly not forgotten - they of course played a huge part on the Home Front as well as vital contributions in field hospitals and in many other auxiliary services. Several of those who attended the exhibition had their own stories to tell and everyone enjoyed comparing notes over the tea which followed the talk. This was provided by members of the Village Hall Committee and also seemed to go down very well! Many congratulations to Charlotte and Simon both for putting forward this idea originally and for all the very considerable time and trouble that went into staging such a thoughtful event.

Annual Boules Tournament: An important event is coming up on Sunday, August 31st, at The Royal Oak! The annual Whatlington Boules Championship will kick off at 2.00 pm and continue until late. Players of any ability are very welcome to take part, and of course spectators of all ages are also most welcome! Do come along and try your hand if you’ve never had a go before; and if you are a more experienced player, come and show us all how it is done!

There will also be a Barbecue on the same day in the Beer Garden, from 1.00 to 4.00 pm, for £5 a head. Delicious Cyprus Souvlaki - with a choice of pork or chicken - served in Pitta bread, will be available, and Cyprus Halloumi in Pitta for those who prefer a vegetarian option (or who just love halloumi!)

The Good Companions: Hilda Aplin writes: First of all I must apologise for not sending news of The Good Companions. We have been meeting every month of this year, but as many of you will know I have moved. Thus, I really have not had the time to write. The Good Companions enjoyed a visit to Herstmonceux last week. Although it rained hard in the morning the sun came out in the afternoon and it was really warm. The group enjoyed the beautiful gardens and a guided tour of Herstmonceux castle, which was really interesting. It is hard to believe that much of the building is 19th century; the outer walls being 15th century. Herstmonceux Castle is now owned by Queen’s University in Canada and welcomes students from all corners of the world. It was once owned by the Fiennes family but was donated to Queen’s University in 1993, by Dr Alfred Bader, who had once studied at the university, in appreciation for allowing him to study at this university.

After the tour members enjoyed a delicious cream tea in the restaurant. The service was excellent and the table was beautifully laid .......many thanks to the staff at Herstmonceux.

Next month the group are visiting The Orangery at Ashburnham Place for lunch.

If you would like to join us or would like information on The Good Companions, please telephone Hilda on 07586 326133 or Valerie on 01424 773017.

Patricia Begg

Riccards Spring