Cowbeech, East Sussex
NEWS & Weather

This page was updated on Monday, 16th April with a report on the 2012 Presentation Dinner
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We have our own domain back ! (with difficulty. . . )

sheep shelter, Trolliloes (photo: Nigel Stickells)
who needs a Frank Gehry or a Daniel Libeskind when you have this?

NEWS INDEX & Links to Photo Galleries
2012 MHBS Sponsored Walk 22 stalwart citizens braved slick mud to raise funds	Gallery
2012 MHBS Presentation Dinner A staggering £9100 was presented by the MHBS to local Good Causes	Gallery
Cowbeech Spring Clean-Up March 2012 - Cowbeech once more waged War on Litter	Gallery
Cowbeech 2012 PANTOMIME ! "What the Romans Nearly Did for Cowbeech" Another Fantastic evening entertainment !	Gallery
Cowbeech Community Speedwatch - Now in Action !!
Cowbeech Autumn Clean-Up ! November 2011 - another large haul of other people's rubbish	Gallery
MHBS Fancy Dress, Fireworks & Bonfire Party 2011 A costly, but very enjoyable MHBS event. Luckily takings covered the £4000+ cost of staging it	Gallery
Cowbeech Community Speedwatch - Volunteers needed !
Dig For Victory ! Another wonderfully successful Dig For Victory, with Companion Dog Show, Maggot Racing and Auction	Gallery
Cowbeech Revels Returned ! Picnickers assembled in the garden of our gracious hosts and were amused and amazed by the spread of local talent !	Gallery
MHBS Sponsored Walk 2011 Maybe the weather, rain promised, put folks off but those who 'did' the walk enjoyed super weather !	Gallery
Cowbeech Street Party - 29th April, 2011 TVs switched off after the morning's Royal Wedding and Cowbeech entertained Cowbeech to a wonderful party !	Gallery
MHBS 2011 Presentations to Good Causes This year we have photos of how the cash was spent and you can find individual galleries from URLs embedded in the comments	Gallery
Kev's climb of Kilimanjaro ! We're slipping. We've only just learned of this !
Another Village Clean-Up ! March 2011 and once again, the village was a MESS. I hope none of it was yours ?	Gallery
Village Pantomime 2011 Yet another great production to cheer up January !	Gallery
Sussex Horse Community New Facebook Commmunity !
Cowbeech Autumn Clean-up 14 volunteers joined organiser MaryAnn for another very successful cleaning operation	Gallery
MHBS Fancy Dress, Fireworks & Bonfire Celebrations 2010 Prize winners and a brief report, with heartfelt thanks from the MHBS to all the volunteers	Gallery
Meeting of CRASH - (C owbeech R oad A nd S afety H otline) on 24.08.10Di Tucker has provided minutes of the first meeting held at the Harriers to discuss road safety (speeding !) through the village
MHBS Dig For Victory 2010 I have included salient details from MaryAnn into my own brief notes	Gallery
Mink !
Neighbourhood Watch Scheme Di Tucker is considering becoming Neighbourhood Watch Scheme Co-ordinator - she needs you to register your interest
MHBS 2010 Sponsored Walk through Apple Orchards and Bluebell Woods Weather was kind - well, it didn't actually rain, but it was cold and the light not very good. I have added some of the details from MaryAnn	Gallery
MHBS Presentation Dinner 2010 Enthusiastic recipients accepted a massive £6,800 - If I have the individual amounts incorrect, they can easily be altered !	Gallery
2nd Cowbeech Spring Clean Up MaryAnn was delighted with the turn-out and slightly non-plussed by the amount of rubbish
Pantoloony ! A Revue for Children of ALL Ages see below for the official report and comments from an enthusiastic member of the audience !
Cowbeech Autumn Clean Up MaryAnn organised a clean up in the village and environs on a wet November Sunday !
MHBS Bonfire & Fancy Dress 2009 The prize winners are all mentioned in the report below	Gallery
Dig for Victory 2009 Full reports, and a list of Prize winners will follow shortly	Gallery
The Cowbeech Revels 2009 a report from Graham Lee	Gallery
MHBS 2009 Sponsored 6 Mile Walk through Bluebell Woods, apple orchards and fields of lambs. Back problems prevent me from completing the entire Walk so I 'caught' the walkers through the Gensings. I have made a 'special' Gallery for the Cubs and proceeds from any photos they need prints of (for parents and grandparents) go into the Hut Fund. Cub Gallery	Gallery
Cowbeech Spring Clean-Up ! A team of Cowbeech Cleaners got to work on the verges and hedgerows
MHBS 2009 Presentation Dinner with a list of Benificiaries	Gallery
2009 Pantomime - A Twist On Scrooge another fabulous entertainment at the Cowbeech Palladium (aka The Merry Harriers). Report by MaryAnn Gordon	Gallery
MHBS 2008 Fancy Dress & Bonfire Party	Gallery
MHBS 2008 Dig For Victory with links to prize winners, Raffle winners & story of the 'The Swing-Time Sweethearts'	Gallery
2008 Pantomime Scripts On Sale with explanation of how to obtain one
MHBS 2008 Sponsored 6 Mile Walk through Bluebell Woods & Apple Orchards	Gallery
MHBS 2008 Presentation Dinner with a list of the Good causes and the amounts they received	Gallery
Ancestor Digging An ex-pat seeks news of possible ancestors
Cowbeech Has a 2008 Marathon Runner ! celebrating Jonathan Dexter's run
Clean Air Needed Over Cowbeech Outlining the exceptionally vile smell wafted across the village - (update added 8th June, 2008 along with press cutting)
MHBS 2008 Pantomime PANDEMONIUM IN PANTOLAND MaryAnn Gordon gives a full account	Gallery
MHBS 2007 Dig For Victory	Gallery
MHBS 2007 10,000 Metres Footpath March
MHBS 2007 Annual Presentation Dinner
MHBS 2007 Pantomime DEMON IN FAIRYLAND
Cowbeech Revels III 2007	Gallery
Cowbeech Revels II 2006	Gallery
30 MPH Limit throughout Cowbeech
Merrie Harriers Ladies' Darts & Social Group

click on underlined words to visit another place in this site, to go to a linked website or to access an email address; click on the name of a house or business in Cowbeech to go to its location in the Cowbeech

Merrie Harriers Bonfire Society Sponsored Walk 2012

I'm not saying the weather was unkind to us - just that it was drizzling earlier on (which might have detered some people from setting out) - and that it was dark, dismal, cold and extremely wet and slippery under foot.

Nevertheless, about 22 people braved the elements and mud and completed the 6 miles around beautiful local countryside and it never actually rained throughout the morning.

The walk meanders through country lanes, woodland and orchards with different fruit trees in various stages of blossom; past lambs (I think this one is wondering who is disturbing the peace of his meadow); through bluebell woods and fields of emerging corn.

There seemed to be almost as many (very muddy) dogs as there were walkers and each received a bag of treats on completing the course and making it back to the Harriers. Handlers opted for a much needed reviving drink !

MaryAnn and friends brought up the rear and removed the marker posts (NB, remember that the footpath through the Gensings will be closed off and on as they repair the pylons).

I hope that sponsors were generous and that charities (not least the MHBS !) benefitted substantially from the exercise - you can see photos here

Merrie Harriers Bonfire Society Presentation Dinner, 2012

The pub was packed ! Much bigger attendance than last year when there were no guests seated 'downstairs'- tonight every corner was taken and every table filled

Possibly because of the number of diners, the actual Presentation was postponed half an hour or so but none of the recipients of the MHBS largesse will have been disappointed. Speaker after speaker extolled the efforts of the MHBS and waxed enthusiastic about how very much the donation meant to their organisation.

The photo shows Karen Tritton of Riding For The Disabled trotting around a Willow Maze

In all £9,120 was given to Local Good Causes

£200 - Herstmonceux Village Information Center, Moira Bowles
£200 - Herstmonceux Rainbows, Heather Harper
£300 - Herstmonceux Brownies, Becki Page
£500 - Herstmonceux Guides, Claire Page
£1,000 - Ist Herstmonceux Scout Group, Karen Guest and Victoria Bonnet
£400 - Herstmonceux C.Primary School, Paul Vinnicombe, Chair of Governors
£400 - Herstmonceux Luncheon Club, Ann Nash
£400 - Ray and Sheldon Club, Ray Twort
£500 - Viewcraft (visually impaired), Percy Cox & Joy
£500 - Riding/Driving for the Disabled, Karen Tritton
£500 - St Johns Ambulance, Maria Brand & Margaret Skinner
£636 - Demelza (+ Barclays contribution = £1,272), Sandra Naylor
£500 - St Wilfreds Hospice, Roy Wilkinson
£500 - Herstmonceux Surgery, Ann Walker
£2,585 - Jim Mockford Fund, Jim Mockford

Next real chance to start collecting for an even bigger pot of cash for presentation in 2013 is the Sponsored Bluebell and Orchard Walk on 5th May !

The photos will give you an idea of the Presentation Evening !

Cowbeech & Environs Clean-up, Autumn 2011

Cowbeech mustered an army of 28 volunteer recruits under the generalship of Mary Ann Gordon on 25 March. Cohorts were dispatched as far as Stunts Green, down Hammer Lane to Cralle Bridge, Trolliloes Lane and the main road to Clippenham Corner in search of litter.

A few 'sniffer dogs' were taken along by their handlers and tasked with finding hidden bits of debris.

Working in pairs with luminous waistcoats, pickers and sacks provided by Wealden Council, the Volunteers scoured the hedges and verges for drinks cans, bottles, paper and other detritus apparently chucked from passing cars.

Among the trophies, a very rusty preserving pan, a length of guttering, an exhaust pipe and several 4 liter milk containers. Also an (empty) gin bottle.

Mary Ann drove around replacing full sacks with fresh ones and picking up the larger 'collectors' items'.

The sun shone on the myriad daffodils and primroses, litter and army alike until the lanes were clean again and the regiment repaired to Head Quarters (St Michael's) for tea, coffee and snacks provided by the General and her husband.

The dandelion is acceptable in the hedgerows this time of year, litter isn't ! You can see other pics here

Cowbeech 2012 PANTOMIME
"What the Romans Nearly Did For Cowbeech"

The All-Star Cast performing at the Cowbeech Coliseum over 3 evenings proved once again the wealth of talent Cowbeech possesses. Les Webb had the idea for this Panto which was written by Les in tandem with Directors/Producers Graham Lee and Pippa Cross.

Goff & Moira Bowles (respectively responsible for music and prompt) provided continuity and the Technical Support team of Ray Ellis, Mick Goodsell & Bernie Hegarty ensured smooth running.

That we were totally unaware of them proves the efficiency of Stage Managers Jo Hallet and Nicky Chapman !

A Pantomime Buffet, included in the price of the ticket, was served by the Merrie Harriers either before or after the performance depending on which 'house' you attended.

The full Cast, Production and Backstage Support Team photos as they appeared in the Programme - I have added the names & characters or function - can be seen here

Phew ! Cowbeech was extremely lucky that the Romans didn't manage to achieve anything in this village ! If Gen Berlusconi (Simon Chapman) had his way, Porter The Publican (Ian Hunt) would have indeed been landlord of a Pub with no Beer - And yes, the audience joined in the singing ! Instead we'd have been drinking Vinho Verde and Frascati. Cowbeech diet would have changed radically too - our local orchards would have been dug up and replanted with spaghetti trees ! Had we been forced to drive on the 'wrong' side of the road, the Community Speedwatch would have had more work and while I'm not sure about the message sent by the Roman ladies who (deservedly) won the Cowbeech's Got Talent Show, I'm even more pleased we don't have communal bathing !

I hope to be able to add news of the actual 'take' and increase to the MHBS Good Causes Fund shortly but one message to take home is 'Bring On the 2013 Pantomime and make sure you don't miss it !'

There is a gallery of photos here.

Cowbeech Village Community Speedwatch - In Action !

Its all 'GO' (s l o w e r) !

Volunteers have been recruited and trained, the Police have provided the latest laser speed monitor along with reflective jackets and speeding motorists are recorded.

The Police have approved a site mid-way through the village and the machine is made available to Cowbeech every 5 weeks. Volunteers work in threes, one manipulating the laser and the other two noting times, speed, make & colour of car and number-plate. This information is passed to the cops who can then write a letter to the driver. More than three such letters in a three month period can result in a fine.

Right now - dark winter evenings - the timing of these approximately 2 hour daily checks possibly misses the evening rush-hour of commuters anxious to get home to their tea, but early morning sessions seem to be quite productive. If 'productive' is not precisely the right word here, it means more cars are clocked speeding than - say - at 2 o'clock in the afternoon !

I'm sure many of us are guilty of the occasional lapse - I know I am - but if the sight of three bright yellow clad folk with clip-boards and what appears to be a movie camera can slow drivers and prevent speeding through Cowbeech, the laser and these volunteers will have done us all a service.

Cowbeech & Environs Clean-up, Autumn 2011

Enthusiastic 'street cleaners' arrived in droves at "St Michael's" just ahead of 10 am on Sunday, 6th November to collect their equipment and set off down Hammer Lane as far as Sheepwash Bridge, up the main Road to Clippenham Corner, through the village & down Cowbeech Hill and around Trolliloes. Another family covered the area from the bottom of Cowbeech Hill towards Carters Corner.

Herstmonceux joined in this year which meant Cowbeech extended its area as far as Stunts Green to meet up with the road cleaned by people from Gardner Street. A very welcome number of folks from the extra stretch of highway joined in, MaryAnn had earlier delivered a pile of Wealden's bags, gloves, reflective jackets and pick-up sticks to the entrance to Conquerors to save them a trip.

She provided back-up (and clean bags !) by driving around the 'arms' of the operation and filling her car with sacks as they filled.

I lost count of the number of helpers when it reached 25 - but from the number of sticks and bags used / filled there must have been 28 - 30 people involved in the Cowbeech end of this Clean-Up.

There was certainly a large pile of rubbish piled on MaryAnn' & David's lawn for Wealden to collect Monday morning.

The area that worried me runs from the top of Cowbeech Hill down to Conquerors. Cars race around that corner, often on the wrong side of the road, the banks are steep and unforgiving and the road surface positively corrugated, but the clean-up was achieved without accident - perhaps the myriad reflective jackets along country lanes gave drivers pause to ponder ?

All the work was accomplished shortly after 11 o'clock whereupon MaryAnn & David served the public spirited army with coffee, tea, sausage rolls and a wonderful sponge cake made by Caroline.

Later MaryAnn collected a further 6 large bags from Stunts Green and added them to the pile for Wealden's collection.

One thing you have to say to the litter-louts that make these twice yearly clean-up necessary - 'thank you for giving us the excuse for a village get-together !' But we don't need this kind of excuse - much of the litter comprised crisps packets and drinks cans. . . it is all so very unnecessary -

A few photos can be found here

MHBS Bonfire, Fireworks and Fancy Dress

Phone calls throughout the day were disheartening - 'We've looked out of the window and read the weather forecast and think we'll stay at home'. Luckily these fears proved unfounded, the drizzle dried up, the night was warm and the crowds arrived to enjoy exciting fireworks, excellent food and a very well built, well lit bonfire !

The evening kicked off with a Fancy Dress competition for a variety of age-groups from really tinies to a gallant Mrs Robins who admitted to being 'over 16'. Winners received a goodie bag of sweeties & Simon kept a note of names so I hope to be able to include them later today.

Behind the scenes, volunteers worked over barbecues to prepare huge piles of sausages, burgers (with or without onions !) and a hog-roast. Ladies in a 'van collected the money and further along the line, cooks knew what to serve from the shape of the bun presented. There was a well stocked bar past the hog-roast - Feeding of the 5000 ? We'll have a better idea later of the number of party-goers but fliers advertising the event mentioned a massive £61,000 as the sum paid by the Merrie Harriers Bonfire Society to local Good causes over the years... Truly awesome

Rockets embedded among the timbers on the bonfire exploded at intervals to ensure it lit and it blazed away merrily and burned down evenly before the fireworks. OK, these represent huge amounts of money going up in smoke - but what smoke ! an' its only once a year -

The bottom line of all this is that, despite expenditure of over £4000 to stage the event, takings have covered the cost and given MHBS a little extra for their Good Causes fund.

A new addition to the field this year was a Roundabout to keep children circulating happily and we are always pleased to see St John's Ambulance folks at these events.

I'll add greater detail if/when I get it - in the meantime, have a look at some of the fancy dress here

Cowbeech Village Community Speedwatch

A number of our neighbours are concerned about the speed of traffic through Cowbeech. They have formed the 'Cowbeech Community Speedwatch Team', under the auspices of Sussex Police. This initiative provides support to volunteers to help reduce traffic speed and road casualties in our community.

Initially the speedwatch team used the SID (speed indicator device) to monitor traffic speed but they now have access to the latest laser speed monitor technology, approved by Sussex Police. This provides much greater flexibility. All the volunteers using it have been trained and assessed by our local police community support officer who also approves the site(s) through the village where the laser can be deployed.

The team hopes that the monitoring undertaken will remind drivers to observe the 30 mph speed limit and thus make Cowbeech safer for everyone who drives, walks, cycles or rides through the village.

Although there is a committed group of volunteers, more are always welcome. If you'd like to join in please contact team coordinator, Di Tucker.

Volunteers will be given all the necessary training to help make this community a safer place to live and give you a chance of socialising with your neighbours !

Dig For Victory !

The Sky is the Limit for Dig For Victory ! And the Raffle of that name was dedicated to Jim Mockford who was left paralysed following a freak accident at the village garage in October 2010. It raised over £1000 !

Tim raised over £900 by auctioning off fruit, flowers, cakes, vegetables and kept the cash flowing in. It seems a shame (to me) that some folks take their competition exhibits home and don't leave the lot to fall under his hammer. Just think how much more could have been raised for the Bonfire Society's Good Causes !

The auction is always the highlight of these events and well done Ben, Landlord of the Harriers, for spending £50 on a jar of pickled onions !! I'll correct that statement. Tim had moved into more normal auctioneer's parlance. Ben paid 50 guineas !!! Another hero was Ben Maskell who paid £35 for a bunch of flowers ! Top honours went to a lady whose name escapes me - £100 for a cake. . .

A sub-committee ran a Companion Dog Show which unfortunately wasn't too well publicised - this web-site had NO knowledge of it. However enough people must have seen the belated publicity and braved the very rutted ring to have their dogs judged for Prettiest Bitch, Most Handsome Dog and other 'fun' classes.

Among the frequent side-shows, all designed to milk visitors' wallets, were some new ones. Pinning the Tail on the Donkey and fishing for ducks joined Wellie throwing and heaving a sack over an ever-higher bar. Another new one was picking up a line of bricks - the winner managed 13 !

I hadn't actually watched maggot racing before but am now a confirmed convert to the sport !

The band played on - the Warbleton Silver Band played by the entrance where Dave was on hand to relieve folks of entry money and the William Dexter Jazz and Swing Band play when the Band needed a rest.

Sustenance at the entrance was available as Joyce and Ann dispensed tea and cake. Further down the field Pims was on hand, along with lashings of super BBQ grub.

Mirrie made best possible use of all the exceptionally high quality clothes and bric-a-brac she'd received as donations. Wish I'd had more time to browse but visits and 'how're you doing' queries were always greeted with 'Very Well !'

I had googled the Met on Saturday and torrential rain was promised in the Herstmonceux area for 10 am. The Met got it wrong, the rain arrived at 9 ! But it soon cleared up to leave a wonderful sunny day. That rain kept people pinned in the Harriers in the evening will have gladdened Mine Hosts !

Ed Giddins had been invited to present the prizes but unfortunately wires were crossed. He had been lead to believe it'd all be over in time for him to return the Saffrons and take a few more wickets and regretfully had to cry off. However his sister Vicky Maidens, ably helped by her own and her sister's children, filled the gap admirably. The kids were wonderful advertisements for the ladies of the face-painting circle.

It is always a wonderful day out and I am sure the 'take' for 2011 reached record levels ! Well done to all the Committee, organisers and helpers. In all, after expenses have been met, there will be over £3,000 to go into the Good Causes Fund !

List of prize winners can be found as a separate list here and you can find photos of exhibits, side shows, doggies and prize recipients here

Cowbeech Revels Returned for a 5th Unforgettable Performance !

The 2011 Cowbeech Revels took place on Sunday, 10th July. The alternative (covered) venue wasn't needed and we enjoyed wonderful warm evening sunshine in a totally weed-free garden. (I am SOO jealous !)

People from Cowbeech and beyond enjoyed a picnic (of their own contrivance) while they marvelled at the talents of their neighbours.

Following performances by Chris Malcolm, Lizzie & Joe Benians, Rose Blanchard, Roger Wintle and Dave Gordon, the Panto Platoon brought the show to a rousing conclusion. Goff Bowles provided musical accompaniment and the evening was compered by Graham Lee.

The William Dexter Jazz and Swing Band set up during the interval and provided a super end to the evening.

There was a raffle with proceeds of £236.00 which were donated to the Merrie Harriers Bonfire Society.

Light at that time of day can be harsh but there is a gallery of pictures here

MHBS Sponsored Walk 2011

Although the Walk is organised by the Merrie Harriers Bonfire Society and MaryAnn comes along behind everyone to take up the direction markers, people undertake it to raise money for any Charity of their choice. I am sure the MHBS also benefits and so it should for arranging a great 6 mile hike through a variety of scenery, past many spectacular vantage points, efficient monitoring, Certificates of Achievment for the finishers and 'treats' for the dogs !

Faint drizzle greeted the relative few foregathering at the Harriers for the annual trek through our wonderful countryside but it soon cleared up to leave blue skies and gentle breezes. Perhaps the promised rain took its toll but we missed many familiar faces as well as the team of Scouts and Cubs who normally impress with their stamina.

However two young lads who undertook to run the entire course did just that ! I understand they missed the 5th check-point because the lady manning it hadn't arrived by the time they got there. Never mind, they came haring across the field towards me and a photo proves they didn't slack - Very well done, both of you. (I'll try to get names later).

Cherries were already formed and swelling in the orchards, April having been totally 'out of season' warm and dry. Piles of timber, along with freshly planted saplings, attested to a renewal and the allotments along the course showed much hard work already done.

The bluebells through the Gensings were past their best, but the scent still lingered. Photos of them in the general Walk Gallery were taken last week 'in case' !

And am I ever grateful to whoever knocked out the gatepost by that dreadful stile near the Cowbeech road ! Its narrowness, location against the fence and height render it impossible for us old folks and those with replacement knees. I hope the gate post remains lying on its side for many a long year.

Cowbeech Held a Street Party !

Well, if not exactly a street party it was a wonderful, relaxed and friendly village get-together, brain child of MaryAnn Gordon and Niamh Layberry, to fill the gap after a morning sitting in front of the TV. Ben & Nickie West kindly mowed the garden at the back of the Harriers, members of the Tug 'o War team (so I am told) helped put up a marquee and the weather, while chill and quite windy, stayed dry !

A table spread with a delicious selection of sandwiches, quiches, salads and various savoury dishes lined up with another board groaning under a fabulous selection of cakes, buns, meringues and biscuits (and please will someone give me the recipe of that panettone !)

MaryAnn had requested edible contributions from the 120 folks who initially announced their intention of attending and everyone came up trumps, providing a cornucopia of wonderful home-cooking

I didn't dare come off diet (other than for a mouthful of panettone) but faced with so many tempting dishes, it wasn't easy.

The pub stayed open throughout and Chris Malcolm organised a very taxing 'Treasure Trail'. Participants were divided into four groups according to age and had to answer prepared questions from pictures around the field.

Marie Goulding, John Cobb and friends actually finished the adult group in 4th place but carried off a Wedding Mug as prize for the first correct entry !

There are a few photos here

Let's not wait for another Royal Wedding to do this again !

MHBS's Presentation 2011

The picture featured above shows how Herstmonceux Primary School is spending the donations received from the MHBS - restocking the School Library.

The Presentation Dinner took place on 17th April - some recipients partook of the excellent meal and others arrived later, in time to carry off a large facsimile cheque and a discreet brown envelope containing the real thing !

The £6000 plus was split among about a dozen Good Causes and the links will, if you click on the amounts received, take you to galleries of photos showing how the 2010 cash was spent.
A gallery of the actual presentations can be found here

Mark Benier - Chairman of Governors of Herstmonceux Primary School - £400 (featured photo)

Charlotte Nuckhir - Hospice at Home Manager of St Wilfrid's - £500

Angela Webster – Herstmonceux Lunch Club - £400 and Ray and Sheldon Club - £400

Percy Cox & Joy - VIEWCraft - £500. This particular link shows 'Work in Progress'throughout the Spring Term.

Karen Tritton - Riding For The Disabled (RDA) - £500

Sue Page, Secretary of the Hx Scouts Fund Raising Group - Herstmonceux Guides - £500, Herstmonceux Brownies - £300 and the First Herstmonceux Scout Group - £1700. This sum includes the VERY generous gesture of the Herstmonceux Rainbows who insisted their money should go to the Scouts. Work on the new Hut is scheduled for 2012 and Planning Permission has been obtained ! No photos are available although Karen Guest did try to get hold of a poster and some enthusiastic Scouts, we ran out of time.

Mrs Skinner and Maria Brand - St John's Ambulance - £500

Moira Bowles – Village Information Centre - £200

Vicki Pickering – Demelza James - £1,188 MHBS donation matched by Barclays

This annual event at the Harriers is more than an excuse to dine out and meet the rest of the village, it is the culmination of 12 months enthusiastic fund raising. Events include Dig For Victory, a Sponsored Walk through apple orchards and bluebell woods, Bonfire Night, and a Pantomime. On each occasion the small core Committee of hard working volunteers calls upon the services of many other Cowbeech residents.

I am very glad to have been given the chance to explore the 'Good Causes' and to take photos of their activities. Speaking to other people, I soon discovered I was not alone in my ignorance of what some of them actually DO, but now I am indeed impressed and hope more people will either become involved or simply dig deeper into their pockets at every MHBS Fundraising Event !

There is a brief description of the work of each Good Cause on their galleries in case you, too, are curious -

Kev's Climb of Mount Kilimanjaro

Just received news of Kev's successful assault on Mount Kilimanjaro ! He tells us he loves being on top of mountains - just that feeling of being above it all (!). It seems he wanted to climb this particular mountain for the last 30 years or so and thought it best to make the attempt while he was still able. He thinks he was just in time!

Nine brave souls set off in Kev's group and eight (including of course Himself) made it to the top - 5895 m / 19,340 ft asl. They reached the summit at 9 am on the 5th day of walking. The final assault was commenced at midnight. The worst bit for Kev was the lack of oxygen at that height, which he really struggled with - the actual walking would have been relatively easy had it been at sea level and on the flat !

This picture shows where they were on Day 3 -
Marwanzi Tarn

Sadly, Kev's camera slipped from a pocket during the climb. He'd already taken about 150 shots. Other climbers have tried to fill in the gaps but there is nothing like ones own pictures, taken by oneself. Kev is lending me a CD of shots, some of which I will put onto a page very soon

This was definitely a 'personal pilgrimage' but Kev offered to accept
sponsorship for the Merrie Harriers Bonfire Society
- and there is still time
to put your hand in your pocket !

You'll find a list of
sponsors in the Pub
to which your name (and donation)
can be appended !

Later, when the money is in
and counted, I'll let you know
how generous you all were.

Village 2011 Spring Clean-Up - A Clean Cowbeech (but for how long ?)

Mary Ann's cry for volunteers was heard by seventeen public spirited members of our community, an almost ideal number to cover the area in friendly groups. This year people were so keen, they arrived and set off well before the 10 o'clock deadline for foregathering ! This meant that the verges and hedgerows on all the roads out of the village were clean and pristine by 11 o'clock and people were returning to St Michael's for Mary Ann's malt loaf and sausage rolls and June Ellis' fairy cakes.

One can't help wondering how soon before the first beer can or crisp packet is thrown from a passing motor-car ?

Once again pick-up sticks, gloves, (tiny) reflective waist-coats and bags were provided by Wealden and the now-full bags piled on the lawn will be collected Monday morning.

I drove out the day before to see what sort of rubbish awaited the volunteers. It seemed smaller - more drinks cans and sandwich wrappers, fewer automobile parts than in the past but the pile of rubbish bags on MaryAnn's lawn gave the lie to THAT ! Motorists passing through were as assiduously dirty as ever !

Photos can be found here here

Pantomime 2011 - Pantoland at War

Under the authorship of Les Webb and the co-authorship and direction of Graham Lee and Pippa Cross, the restaurant of the Harriers was once more transformed into stage and auditorium for a Pantomime !

This year we were treated to Cowbeech during World War II, inspiration for the theme coming from the Dig For Victory summer fete. The wartime contrast was accentuated by the puny carrot and manky Brussells sprouts available for sale in Linday Hunt's village shop ! Shoppers Moira Davidson and Pippa Cross were unimpressed. The glass of wine on the counter during the Dress Rehearsal was unplanned. . . but its easier to move around taking photos than during a perforance and I didn't notice at the time.

Les Webb as Lord Hee Haw (!) and Jo Benians as Wilfred Pickles of the BBC added threats and reassurance in equal measure.

The Home Guard carried a Dad's Army theme with Mick Goodsell, Simon Chapman, Sam Benians and Rory Hunt wielding cricket bats. I always think that program is too true to be really funny. Daddy had a fund of local Home Guard stories (he was 'Intelligence Officer' and had to work out the ha'penny a mile bicycle allowance . . . ) which were just as incredible or funny !

Glamour was provided by Lizzie Benians, Niamh Layberry, Nicky West and Emma Goodsell and we knew the Village was safe from invasion, thanks to Privates Wayne Crittenden and Chris Waddington.

Ian Hunt portrayed a strangely familiar Landlord. Name was the same and attitude to customers too - but at least he didn't have to be begged to turn the lights on over the dartboard.

Colin Ferguson's backdrops were wonderful and Goff Bowles' musical accompaniment encouraged cast and audience into song. Lighting and stage management were under the control of Ray Ellis and Moira Bowles was on hand in case anyone needed a prompt.

It was another wonderful show which I gather played to packed houses with the audience enjoying the hospitality of the Harriers by way of a buffet.

Photos of the Show here, and individual mug-shots of the cast here.

Sussex Horse Community

News from Melanie Jarvis-Vaughan

After the awful incidents involving horses in Sussex recently, the girls at Rainbow Bridge Horse Rescue, a small self funding rescue based just outside Eastbourne, have set up a Facebook community page dedicated to the people of Sussex and their horses.

Sussex Horse Community Page

Once a member of Sussex Horse Community Page you can share advice, ask questions, upload pictures, classified ads, box sharing, events, organise hack meet ups, generally discuss anything equestrian and of course share information about any suspicious behaviour or thefts at your yards. Their goal is to have as many people as possible registered and to make this a true community.

Cowbeech Autumn Clean-up 2010

I counted at least 14 volunteers answering MaryAnn's call to CLEAN UP COWBEECH once again. Workers assembled at St Michael's around 10 am and gloves, reflective jackets, bright orange collecting bags and pick-up sticks provided by Wealden Council were distributed. Wealden will be there on Monday morning to collect it all too - no sorting through required !

Directions were assigned to 5 'teams', through the village itself, Hammer Lane to Sheepwash Bridge, Trolliloes to Bemzells Lane, up past the site of the old Church to Foul Mile and southwards to Beech Croft and Cowbeech Hill. MaryAnn drove around collecting items of litter too large to fit into Wealden's sacks and moving volnteers to reinforce other teams when their own work was completed. She was kind enough to give me and the camera a lift.

The sun shone, the sky was almost a summer's blue and autumn colours were glorious. All of which made it seem sad that such enterprises as a village clean-up are necessary. Bags piled up on the lawn with the return of each team.

Some helpers filled their sacks twice over - MaryAnn had spares in the car - and one person reported a brown paper bag in the hedgerow on the return to the village. Someone had chucked it from a passing car after the litter teams had passed by.

With so many willing workers, the cleansing was over within the hour and everyone repaired to St Michael's for tea or coffee, sausage rolls and home-made malt loaf !

It is probable that another clean-up will be needed come the Spring - so watch the 2011 Diary Dates page (when I get around to building it !) and join in.

It's a wonderful way to spend a morning with your neighbours and you can see where you've been !

You can see the results of these labours by clicking here.

MHBS Fancy Dress, Fireworks and Bonfire Celebrations 2010

The Beeb was entirely accurate, rain started during the Fancy Dress judging and just got worse throughout what was otherwise a super evening ! The stalwarts who showed up in costume were cute - winners received vouchers to take into the pub - but whether to buy Mom a pint or to collect a prize was unclear. Everybody received sweeties.

Prize winners were

0-4 years : 1st Prize - Bertie Kane (Dracula); 2nd Prize - Faith Tulles (Kitten); 3rd prize - Oliver Brewer (Bat)
5-7 years : 1st Prize – Laces Leovald (Skeleton Pirate); 2nd Prize - Sam Robins (Bat); 3rd Prize - Millie Burrow (Fairy)
8-11 years : 1st Prize – Lottie Bodles-Scott (Wednesday of Adams Family); 2nd Prize - Georgina Ellis (Mutant Teddy Bear); 3rd Prize - Jake Farrell (Grim Reaper)
11+ years : 1st Prize – Jessica Michael (Zombie); 2nd Prize - Mrs Robins (Pumpkin)
Best Pumpkin Lantern : 1st – Peter Sheppard; 2nd - Oscar Ellis; 3rd - Georgina Ellis

Considering the weather, the bonfire started with a 'BANG' and blazed away. The fireworks were spectacular.

I am indebted to Wendy and Colin Chrismas, long-time (ago) residents of Cowbeech, for some of the photos of Fireworks. My own camera became drenched earlier and it wasn't until the kind ladies selling barbecues took pity on me and invited me into their accommodation to dry out that it worked again. But by then the fireworks were over.

I did manage to get back to the Hog Roast for an 'after' shot - that pig disappeared in short order and, from the snippet I filched when no-one was looking, had a noble funeral.

The Committee of the MHBS is very grateful to all the volunteers who gave of their time helping to set up, steward and sell during the party and in particular, clear up next day ! I understand at least 900 people, many accompanied by children who are allowed in for free, actually paid up to join the party on the field. And, if the rapid disappearance of the Hog is anything to go by, enjoy quantities of excellent burgers, bangers as well as pork. The pub beer tent provided a splendid selection of drinks to wash it all down.

Great to think the entry money over from providing such excellent family entertainment is donated to local Good Causes -

There is the usual gallery of photos here. If you scroll down the page of this and any of the Galleries, you can find how to contact me or to place an order.

CRASH !
Speeding traffic through Cowbeech has long been a problem and at last someone is doing something about it.

Di Tucker arranged a Meeting with the Police and Highways at the Merrie Harriers in August and you can read notes of that meeting here

Thirty two residents attended the afternoon meeting with others sending apologies owing to work commitments. This was tremendous - Policeman Iain Tomsett told me afterwards he'd expected maximum 6 to show up. The meeting, chaired by Di, was brisk and animated.

Needless to say, several brick walls were encountered, mostly erected (it seemed to me) by Highways. As an example, the 'right place' for speed limit to start had been assessed as just short of Shaw's Garage and so that was the right place. No, it is NOT possible to take into consideration additional traffic through the village, additional housing developments in the environs or more local houses / residents or anything else.

Numerous suggestions flowed throughout the meeting - some would fail through lack of finances, others were impractical.

In summing up, Di made it clear that we had to educate folks to drive with more care and attention to the safety of the populous and that it is but little use setting out with grandiose plans. Firstly we need to prove to the Police (and Highways ?) that there is a speeding problem in this village. To this end, several stalwarts offered to take part, attend a seminar, train to use certain equipment etc.

I am sure Di would appreciate (helpful) comments as time goes on.

Dig For Victory 2010 !

Super day - not too hot, sun shining most of the time. All kinds of attractions and games for kiddies, Punch & Judy, face painting, embroidering; and for adults, competitions, hamburgers, a well stocked bar.

Swingtime Sweethearts gave their usual flawless performance to an enthusiastic audience waving flags and Kelly found a jive partner to the delight of spectators !

Marie sold clothes galore and there were heaps of books to buy and perhaps return for next year ?

We have met at the annual Presentation Dinner but it was wonderful to watch Percy and his friends from View Craft (with his gorgeous Guide Dog, Joy) caning chairs, painting, knitting and doing mosaic work for an occasional-table top. When Joy took off her 'working clothes' she soon realised there were treats in my bum-bag ! She shared them with her Whippet friend but her predecessor, wearing her insignia as 'Retired Guide Dog', slept.

The Tug-o-War didn't go in our favour this year but I understand some of the team were tugging elsewhere on the day. So well done, Hailsham Young Farmers.

Judges must have been kept very busy assessing all the cakes, jams, flowers and vegetables entered for competition and as usual auctioned off in aid of the Good Causes - Only Tim could raise £50 for a jar of pickled onions - that is some selling !

Finally somewhat scratchy strains of Ravel's Bolero greeted the arrival of Jayne Torvill who presented the prizes. There is a full list of Prize Winners here

Gross 'take' on the day was in excess of £4,500 but of course even the stalwarts of the Merrie Harriers Bonfire Society Committee can't put on a show like this for pennies ! and there are always expenses for entertainment, food etc so the final figure for later donation to Good Causes will be around £3,500.

The Bonfire Society is very grateful to the very many people who gave so generously of their time and money to make Dig For Victory go from strength to strength !

The featured photo was taken by Di Tucker (one I missed for some reason !) but there is the usual gallery of photos here

Mink !

Karen Wintle found this fellow in her woodstore. He/she went into the garage where she fed it all morning thinking it was a ferret and must belong to someone and should be kept safe. The ferret rescue people have told her it is a mink. It escaped while she was out which is probably just as well. Very sweet creature and Karen still has all her fingers

I seem to recall minks were 'accidentally' released into the wild in the South of England some years ago and became a menace, killing our 'natural' wildlife. Also that the problem extended to the area around our own (sadly demised) waterworks.

Does anyone have any recollection / stories ?

MHBS Sponsored Walk 2010

At first glance, the MHBS Sponsored Walk on Saturday, 8th May seem less well attended than in previous years but 'twas not so. As ten o'clock struck more and more people arrived from the garden of the Harriers, the bars, motor cars and on foot. Actually, 50 walkers accompanied by a number of energetic dogs completed the 6 mile course over local footpaths through orchards and bluebells.

It was unseasonably cold but the colourful blossom of fruit trees and woodland flowers made the walk worth braving the weather and the thought of money raised for good causes provided an additional spur.

Although the MHBS run this event each year, participants walk for the charity or good cause of their choice. A large contingent of young people from the First Herstmonceux Scout Group walked for much needed money towards their Scout Hut, burned down last year. Other good causes included the Intensive Care Unit at the District General Hospital, St Wilfred’s Hospice and the Bonfire Society itself which distributes funds to many Good Causes.

Families, neighbours and friends took advantage of the occasion for catching up and conversation as the groups progressed towards their goal was animated !

The rain held off for the faster walkers and only really soaked those bringing up the rear and gathering up marker posts after they had left the field and were headed down the road towards the Pub for restoratory warmth and refreshments !

You can see photos (despite the lack of decent light and the problem of having at least SOME light as people walked close to bluebells) here

MHBS Presentation Dinner 2010

The culmination of an extremely successful fund-raising year for the Merrie Harriers Bonfire Society was celebrated with a Presentation Dinner at the Pub where an excellent meal was served and cheques presented to local Good Causes.

Beneficiaries included :

St Wilfrid's Hospice - £500
1st Herstmonceux Scout Group - £1,000
Herstmonceux Guides - £500
Herstmonceux Brownies - £300
Herstmonceux Rainbows - £200
Herstmonceux Lunch Club - £500
Ray & Sheldon Club - £500
Viewcraft - £500
St John's Ambulance - £500
Demelza James - £1188 (£594 was matched to Barclays sponsorship)
Riding & Driving for the Disabled - £500
Herstmonceux School - £500
Village Information Center - Voucher from Harriers - £200

As each recipient accepted their (smaller and more value than the huge pasteboard !) cheques, they explained briefly what the money would mean to their organisations.

MHBS Chairman, Mick Goodsell, thanked the assembled company for their support and hoped for another generous year to come.

MaryAnn Gordon has written a report here

and you can find the usual gallery of photos by clicking here

Second Cowbeech Spring Clean Up

From the amount of rubbish picked up by MaryAnn and her willing team of 18 - this needs to be at least a twice yearly event !

As well as the discarded tire, there was a car battery which Sue Watson kindly removed to prevent the acid getting onto the helpers.

Wealden gave support in the shape of collecting bags, pick-up tools and gloves and were on hand at 6.30 next morning to remove the debris. Actually I thought we paid rates for the Council to do it and I dread to think how much more will result from any attempt to cut our weekly collections, although I am sure the rubbish which sullies our lanes and hedges is actually chucked from passing cars.

Grateful thanks to the people prepared to give up a Sunday morning in the interests of us all. They fanned out in 4 directions, Trolliloes, Sheepwash Bridge, Clippenham Corner and the top of Cowbeech Hill - worked hard from 10 to about 11.30 and then enjoyed refreshments at St Michaels.

PANTOLOONY !

Billed as a "Revue for Children of ALL Ages" I loved it and so did the audience at every performance !

When ill-health prevented Chris Malcolm, instigator of Cowbeech's Christmas Pantomimes, from producing another extravaganza, Marie Goulding and Moyra Davidson stepped nobly into the breach and put on a Revue. Despite inclement weather (snow !) which prevented some folks from attending, the performances went ahead to enthusiastic applause and rave reviews.

Marie directed and certainly she knows what she is about in this genre of entertainment as well as having a wonderful singing voice. She had contrived to re-use characters from past entertainments and Dick Whittington's cat has never sounded so good...

The cast appeared more than willing to enter into the spirit of the occasion and to fool about - to the delight of the audience. Lighting was provided by Dave Bisp and music by Goff Bowles and Roger Wintle. Continuity was the responsibility of Tim Watson who introduced or commented (pithily) on the different acts from a milking stool placed permanently on-stage.

The stage was a corner of the pub restaurant and the cast entered from the stairs - props were few. Costumes were minimal - everyone was dressed in black with a token addition to denote their character - colourful veils over the lower face for the harem ladies (and gentleman !), a white carnation in the button-hole of the reformed Scrooge as a bridegroom anxious to get to the church on time and white lace (curtains ?) as tutus over the trousers of the ballerinas ! The production went with tremendous zing and the audience participated in true Panto-style. (Oh yes, we did !)

All thanks to Marie for providing a welcome and thoroughly enjoyable excuse for a Cowbeech winter party as well as helping raise funds for the MHBS Good Causes.

What a talented village we are !

MaryAnn writes from the MHBS - here

Cowbeech Autumn Clean Up

Following on the success of the Spring Cowbeech Clean Up, MaryAnn liased with Wealden for the provision of gloves, pick-up sticks and bags for an Autumn Cleaning on Sunday 15th November.

MaryAnn tells us that the clean up went well - 19 people turned up despite the rain which lasted right up to 20 minutes before the start of activities and then threatened the volunteers all morning. The rubbish was piled up on her lawn, awaiting Wealden District Council who promised to come "first thing" Monday morning.

It was still raining when I went out with camera -

There are no pick up sticks on display as people (understandably !) either claimed them for their own use or they have been put into MaryAnn's Nissen Hut (with spare gloves and sacks) for future use. They were very useful the day after the Bonfire. . .

Coffee and crumpets followed and were enjoyed along with the chat among neighbours. We should all be grateful to these volunteers for giving us a once-more pristine village and while it would be nice to think Cowbeech Clean-ups were unnecessary excuses for a get-together - we can't stop people throwing litter from cars so long may they continue !

Bonfire & Fancy Dress 2009

First a word of apology - Next year we will be sure to include the times in the diary ! I hope I didn't mislead anyone who phoned me. . .

The evening wasn't anything like as cold as last year and it brought out droves of merry-makers, many in imaginative fancy dress. As usual the classes for the under 7s were the most enthusiastically supported but this year the young men of the Merrie Harriers Tug-of War Team also turned up in a variety of devilish costumes. Winners were rewarded with a toffee apple ! It's been years since I saw one of those, congratulations to the patient person who created them. Congratulations too - the pumpkin lanterns were awesome ! We have so many artists in this village.

Fancy Dress prize winners included
0-4 Class 1st Oliver (Pumpkin); 2nd Amy (Princess); 3rd Jessica (Witch)
5-7 Class 1st Jake (Werewolf); 2nd Daisy (Spider); 3rd Lewis (Michael Jackson)
8-11 Class 1st Georgie (Autumn Witch); 2nd India (Dead!); 3rd Daniel (White Wizard)
12+ Class 1st Sophie & Jessica (St Trinians); 2nd Irene (Witch); 3rd Ryan (Michael Jackson)

Three Prizes were also awarded for the best/most imaginative pumpkin lanterns

After John & Marie had completed the judging and presented sweets, prizes and the aforementioned apples, well over 1000 people repaired to the field where the idea (after paying £3.00 towards the MHBS's Good Causes) was to queue in front of a typical roadside cafe (!) and pay the four hard-working ladies for your food. The shape of the roll you were handed along with a napkin indicated what you had paid for - hog-roast, sausages, hamburgers, etc ! Simple but oh so effective.

The bar in the erstwhile lambing shed provided ale and mulled wine.

The lighting of the bonfire heralded very welcome warmth and scads of ashy particles - but it had been well laid and burnt fiercely.

When the fire had burned down a tad, so as not to detract from the fireworks, the show commenced. I had raced home to change cameras, hoping to get better pictures than last year by taking them from our own garden - but there wasn't the profusion of high-flying - high exploding rockets as in the past. However, I rushed back to the field and managed to get photos of the equally spectacular, if lower flying rockets, running out of memory card before the truly fantastic finale !!!

Main musical attraction throughout the festivities was a bang up to the minute soundtrack of Michael Jackson’s music.

You can see photos of the Fancy Dress and other illustrations of the very enjoyable evening here...

Dig For Victory 2009

The sun shone bright and warm on the Merrie Harrier's Bonfire Society's DIG FOR VICTORY celebration on Sunday 2nd August.

It seemed to me that there were many more people enjoying themselves this year than ever before - more stalls, games and exhibits. I hope this augurs well for the coffers of the MHBS's Good Causes ! In fact I understand from Les that a preliminary accounting shows a record profit of £4,200.00 after taking out essential expenses ! Les and the Committee of the MHBS are grateful for the efforts of all the volunteers who helped with the staging and running of the event. Without them there would be no Event, meaning far less help available for local Good Causes. He admits it may have been hard work but adds that everybody should feel very pleased with the results of their efforts.

The Swingtime Sweethearts delighted us once again and the Army turned out with some wonderful old vehicles to remind us of when we really did have to Dig For Victory.

Although exhibitors were given a chance to remove their items, it was wonderful to see wheelbarrow loads of flowers, cakes, vegetables and home-grown/made produce being piled onto tables for Tim Watson to auction. His technique seems to achieve maximum prices to swell the funds !

Graham Lee, on behalf of the Cowbeech Revels, presented Mick Goodsell with a cheque for £280 towards the Good Causes. This money was raised through a Raffle held during the Revels.

A full list of Prize Winners can be seen here. Congratulations to all. Very interesting to see so many names recurring from 2008 !

There is a Gallery of photos of the event here.

Cowbeech Revels 2009

We can be very grateful to Graham Lee for kindly providing us with a report and to Graham & Elaine Jupp for photos.
I have made these into a Gallery.

"After two days of worrying about the weather The Cowbeech Revels were blessed with a fine sunny evening for the 2009 Revels held on Sunday 12th July in the garden of Old Mill Cottage, home of Goff and Moira Bowles.

"Over 90 Cowbeechians of all ages turned up for a picnic supper and then settled down to watch the talented Cowbeech performers, young and old, perform a programme of songs, poems, a pantomime extract and even a mime of the Cowbeech Tug of War team in action. The evening ended on a rousing note with everyone joining in the Abba Sing Along finale.

"Performers:
"Chris Malcolm provided a fitting prologue for the Cowbeech 'Rebels', then Graham Lee compered items from John and Marie Cobb, Jayne Ayres, Joe, Elizabeth and Sam Benians, David Gordon, Mary Maynard, The Pantomime Troup, Colin Ferguson, Hannah Hunt, Rose Blanshard, Karen Wintle and Nigel Allen.

"Revels Organisers:
"Goff and Moira Bowles, Elaine and Alan Jupp, Karen Wintle, Graham Lee and Pippa Cross

"Lighting: Heathfield Hire

"Wet weather cover: Heather and Nigel Harper"

Elaine Jupp adds :"We made £224 on the raffle so very pleased with that. I will bank the money (loads of £1 coins) and will write out a cheque to give to David and Mary-Ann but will wait for our "wash-up" evening at the Merrie Harriers. I also have a floral tray without an owner, if anyone mentions this please let me know."

Having heard some choral rehearsals over the garden fence into John and Marie's garden - I was so sorry to miss the 2009 Revels.

Roll on 2010 !!!!

Merrie Harriers Bonfire Society Sponsored Walk 2009

The weather was kind to the 55 walkers and 14 dogs who set out from the Merrie Harriers on 2nd May on a Sponsored Walk through apple orchards, fields of lambs and, of course, perfumed bluebell woods even if the sun didn't shine quite the whole way around the 'course'. The bluebells were even better than last year and I hope the funds raised also exceeded expectations.

Walkers nominated their own Charities so I am not sure exactly for whom/what people were fund-raising and have no wish to pry into amounts but it would be lovely to be able to publish the names and work of the very worthy causes which drew so many willing walkers.

The First Herstmonceux Scout Group was much in evidence, having lost their Scout Hut recently when it was torched by vandals and destroyed. I heard a murmur that they raised £600 towards replacing their kit, lost along with the Hut. The youngsters and their 'minders' enjoyed a Barbecue in the Pub garden after their endeavours, with all kinds of games and amusements.

Everyone who entered finished the walk and were welcomed back to the Harriers by the new owners, Ben and Nicky, who provided an excellent menu of tasty and reasonably priced lunchtime snacks. The holiday mood to extend well into the afternoon.

You can see photos of some of the walkers, the bluebells and a special gallery of the Cubs & Scouts here and here !

Cowbeech Spring Clean-Up !

From Mary Ann Gordon :

The First Cowbeech Clean Up took place on Sunday 15th March with 19 volunteers clearing the verges in the village and the 5 radiating roads and lanes.

Wealden District Council supplied gloves, bags, and pick up sticks and most importantly collected the heap of rubbish we amassed on the following Monday morning.

Coffee and cakes at "St Michael's" afterwards added to the fun as we discussed our finds.

We are all now much more conscious of rubbish being deposited by thoughtless passers-by and another Clean Up will doubtless be needed in the autumn in order to keep Cowbeech as we all like it to be.

I met one of Mary Ann's 'Team' as I was hairing off someplace in the car and was amazed that they covered a much wider area than just the center of the village - all the way to Clippenham Corner, down Hammer Lane to the WaterWorks, to the top of Cinderford Lane and down Trolliloes Lane for a considerable distance too.

Question I asked myself was 'Is the Phantom Sandwich Chucker still around ?' When we used to walk a particular foursome (now long gone) down Hammer Lane each day, Donner ALWAYS found a pack of sandwiches in the hedge. Fresh, and more or less in the same place. We figured someone objected to the fillings provided and off-loaded them just before getting home ! Donner was always very appreciative -

Volunteers will be sought for the Autumn Purge !

Merrie Harriers Presentation Dinner 2009

The Annual Presentation Dinner took place amidst convivial atmosphere at the Merrie Harriers - Click to see a full list of the Beneficiaries and the amounts they received

Delight on the faces of the recipients was worth a thousand words, and something which particularly took my eye were the models made by Members of Viewcraft - this one had been finished just in time and the glue fixing it to the base board was still wet !

Mick Goodsell writes :

"In 2008 we had good fortune with all our charitable enterprises. We managed to maintain a satisfactory level of fund raising despite the ever increasing costs for the Bonfire & Fireworks Display.

Charity Walk ~ A sunny day, lovely bluebells and good exercise for people and dogs - we all enjoyed ourselves.

Presentation Dinner - Fully attended … it’s always great to be able to help local good causes.

Dig for Victory - The rain just held off until after the prizes were presented and we had excellent support.

Bonfire, Fireworks Display and Raffle - A fine night, very popular and yet again a spectacular show.

Christmas Raffle - Good ticket sales, good prizes and a nice little earner’.

Already 2009 has kicked off with our third annual Pantomime “A Twist on Scrooge”. Six performances at ‘The Cowbeech Palladium’ raised over £1,600 thanks to many weeks of hard work by all involved and fantastic support from the local theatre lovers."

The money distributed on the night was increased by 10% to £5,700 thanks to these successful events and you can find a list of forthcoming attractions and dates for your diary ! and there is a photo gallery of beneficiaries and diners here !

Merrie Harriers Bonfire Society
Pantomime 2009 - "A Twist On Scrooge"

SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS ALIVE AND WELL - IN COWBEECH

The Merrie Harriers Bonfire Society presented its third annual Pantomime “A Twist on Scrooge” at the Cowbeech Palladium (aka the Restaurant of the Merrie Harriers) from 7-9th January 2009.

There were two shows each evening commencing at 7pm and 9pm and each show was followed by a tasty buffet meal provided by Duncan Smart and his staff. All six performances were attended by full audiences (save for a handful of 'flu victims and two people caught up in delivering a calf!) who were most appreciative and noisily responded to the performers on stage. The buzz in the Harriers at the meal that followed spoke of a community delighted for any excuse to get together and make merry !

The ensemble of 16 people all performed with great gusto and the occasional line “fluff” though quickly corrected and castigated by our director appeared to only add to the audience’s enjoyment of the event. Ad libbing as a cover-up added to the fun.

The tension between the serious/sombre tone of Dickens' “A Christmas Carol” and the song, dance and joyful innuendo of pantomime was quickly resolved in favour of the latter and there were inevitably many references to notable local figures and events.

In such a small, hardworking and talented company it seems invidious to single out individuals but mention must be made of John Cobb’s bravura performance in the title role (we hope his teeth will not be permanently blackened !); Colin Fergusson’s outrageous Mrs Fezziwig (what a bust line!) and Harry Neale (our youngest performer aged 12) as a number of cheeky urchins. Stout work was also done by the stage hands with a much greater number of scene changes and props than in previous years and by Goff Bowles (one man band) and Dave Bisp (lighting and special effects – some rude !).

The Cast & the Bonfire Society expressed their thanks to Chris Malcolm – author, director, producer, compere and general guiding light. Without Chris there simply would not be a Panto ! If you missed the whole glorious experience – don’t despair as it has been recorded for posterity and will be on sale shortly at the Merrie Harriers. The event has also swelled our charitable funds which will be distributed at to local good causes at our next event - the Presentation Dinner on Sunday 5th April.

A big thank you to everyone who supported us by loaning items of equipment and costumes (HATS were very helpful here) and the brave souls who turned out on cold and frosty evenings to join in the fun.

Mary Ann Gordon
Secretary of MHBS

Any pictures in the Galleries can be purchased to swell Bonfire Society funds - the Pantomime (roughs so far) can be seen by clicking Scrooge !

Merrie Harriers Bonfire Society
Fancy Dress & Bonfire Party 2008

Once again the Bonfire Society put on a splendid show in aid of the many Good Causes it supports.

First of all, Fancy Dress was judged by Marie and John Cobb outside the Merrie Harriers, and I understand Marie provided generous prizes for the winners as well as chocolates for other competitors. Children were grouped by age, 0 - 4, 5 - 8, 9 - 11 and 12 to Adult and judging the imaginative costumes must have been difficult. John did say once he wished he had lots of First Prizes to hand out !

Entry to the field was £3.00 and once there visitors discovered tremendous efforts had been put into providing food for the multitude. Hot dogs, hamburgers, bacon and a Hog Roast were available along with the essential beer tent.

St John's Ambulance were on hand 'in case' of accidents but the firework display was professionally organised and went off with a bang and not a hitch.

I am hoping Les or MaryAnn will provide information about the Bonfire itself, who built it and how many truck-loads of material it took to achieve such a wonderful conflagration so that I can add to this 'instant' report on what appears to have been a very successful event -

Les Webb has written a full report which you can read here

You can see pictures of the Fancy Dress, the crowds and the bonfire, to say nothing of the food stalls with people enjoying themselves, by clicking here. There is an explanation for working the 'gallery'.

Dig For Victory 2008

This Cowbeech 'occasion' seems to get bigger, year on year ! There appeared to be even more people enjoying themselves this year and even the intermittent drizzle didn't manage to spoil the day.

Les Webb sent us this report which I will illustrate shortly -

"Despite a generally wet weekend the weather relented just for the 4 hours of Dig for Victory, indeed the rain started again within minutes of the presentation of trophies by Rev Sue Marshall at the end of the show.

"Entries were about 10% greater than in the previous year which could illustrate that the Home Front spirit of the 1940s survives with produce growing, preserve making, crafts and home cooking still important in these days of TV dinners.

"In 2007 there was a mini heat wave but although numbers attending this year seemed not so high there were greater numbers than had been expected by those fearing the effects of the weather. The Stalls, Games, Tea Tent and BBQ were all well supported and with the introduction of a Summer Raffle it is to be hoped that overall takings will again contribute significantly to the Funds for Local Good Causes. The efforts of all the many volunteers are to be applauded because there would be no show without them and without Dig for Victory there would be many local organisations having to curtail their activities.

"As usual the Warbleton Brass Band provided entertainment and also set the atmosphere for the day, warm hearted remembrance of difficult and tragic times. This year for the first time there was additional entertainment from 'The Swingtime Sweethearts' a delightful duo singing popular songs from the War Years and such was their success it is to be hoped that they will feature again in future years.

"The Tug of War resulted in a win for 'Cowbeech A' but more significantly it was a lot of fun and at the end of the contest some team members found enough energy to give a lesson to those youngsters keen to have a go for themselves.

"To finish the evening a "We'll Eat Again" meal was enjoyed in The Merrie Harriers and when everybody left for home they were tired but triumphant and starting to plan for 2009."

You can find The Raffle Results Summer Raffle Results and a full list of Prize Winners here.

A gallery of photos showing stall holders, stalls, winning exhibits, trophies and people enjoying themselves can be seen by clicking here and scrolling down. The usual instructions to operate the slide-show are given.

I wish the weather had been a tad more sunny

Pantomime Scripts Now On Sale

Yvonne and David Bisp have build a wonderful website for the 2008 Pantomime and hope to sell scripts of Chris Malcolm's imaginative and original Pantomime and hope that other organisations will invest in this superb theatrical property !

Spread the Word around Schools, your Friends and Theatre Groups !

Merrie Harriers Bonfire Society Sponsored 6 miles Walk 2008

The sun shone bright and warm on the Sponsored Walk organised by the Bonfire Society. Walkers included the Committee along with other individual supporters walking to raise money for the Bonfire Society, other energetic folks accompanied by their dogs in support of a variety of Good Causes and the Herstmonceux Cubs who turned out in force seeking funds to extend the range of the group's activities through the summer months.

The walkers gathered for coffee outside the Harriers, signed in with Les Webb and got their numbers and a map. The route took them down Trolliloes Lane and across fields and woodland to spectacular orchards - beautifully pruned fruit trees covered in blossom. Across the road to Herstmonceux and through more fields to Squab Lane and Jarvis Wood, the group became more spread out as the walk progressed. Finally a climb over a stile at the Cinderford Lane end of The Gensings led through wonderfully scented woods, carpeted with bluebells, over the newly reinstated footpath across Thunderers and finally to Broomy Meadow and the stile out into Cowbeech.

First back to the Harriers were two intrepid ladies walking on behalf of Breast Cancer Research. They were getting in training for other walks throughout the summer. Next came John Cobb and Kevin Barker. The cubs re-grouped at the far end of the second wood and again in Broomy Meadow, where they waited so a large group could arrive together at the final checkpoint to collect their Achievement Awards.

Your webmaster cheated (bad back is a perennial excuse !) and went directly to the second Gensing to await the walkers, take pictures and accompany one group back to the village. Later in the afternoon I did walk through the orchards - reached in the comfort of a motor-car. I will (I hope) be able to add the amounts raised and some more names in due course -

Pictures which try to give an flavour of the Walk and the range of age-groups taking part along with the beauty of the scenery can be seen by clicking here and scrolling down

I wish I could have walked the whole 6 miles. . .

Merrie Harriers Presentation Dinner 2008

The Annual Presentation Dinner in the Merrie Harriers and presentation of generous awards by the Bonfire Society was extremely well attended. (Dinner was delicious and excellent value too !)

In all, £5,000 + was donated to Local Good Causes, including -

£200 to Herstmonceux Village Information Centre – accepted by Peter Sangster
£300 to Herstmonceux Rainbows – accepted by Mandy Angear
£250 to Herstmonceux Guides – accepted by Stevie Page
£250 to Herstmonceux Brownies – accepted by Jane Goodman
£500 to Herstmonceux Cubs & Beavers – accepted by Karen Guest
£500 to Herstmonceux Lunch Club – accepted by Judith Kinnison Bourke
£500 to VIEWCRAFT (for the visually handicapped) – accepted by Chairman Percy Cox with ‘Joy’ and by Secretary Jean Wilson with ‘Dolly’
£500 to Ray & Sheldon Social Club – accepted by Connie Martin
£500 to St Johns Ambulance – accepted by Maria Russell
£500 to St Wilfrid’s Hospice – accepted by Georgia Abbott
£500 to Demelza/James – accepted by Sandra Naylor
£530 – Multiple Sclerosis – accepted by Julia Dexter, mother of Jonathan who ran and completed the London Marathon 2008.

Committee Chairman, Mick Goodsell, made the presentations with Committee Members Joyce Burt and Les Webb. Treasurer (and Landlord) Duncan Smart MaryAnn Gordon (Secretary) ensured there was a small encashable piece of paper along with the huge ‘presentation’ cheque.

 

Mick & Joyce

The delight on the faces of the recipients are they accepted their cheques and gave a brief outline of the activities in which they are involved was wonderful to behold.

Dolly and Joy, beautiful Golden Retrievers, slept like logs under the table while their owners dined and then lead them to receive the donation to Viewcraft.

Before the presentations, an excellent dinner was enjoyed by many supporters of the Merrie Harriers Bonfire Society and the £400 raised through a Raffle and Guessing the Contents of a bottle should ensure a good start to the coming year.

For a report by Secretary, MaryAnn Gordon, click on Presentation
For a slide-show of recipients at the Bonfire Society's Presentation Dinner - click on Gallery

Ancestor Digging

I have received a very interesting email from Michelle Kemp. She writes "I am researching my family history. One of my ancestors was the blacksmith in Cowbeech, Timothy Kemp, he and his wife Maria, both died in 1885 of Typhoid and their 3 youngest children were sent to an orphanage in Leominster in Herefordshire.

Would any of your locals know anything of this family or if the forge is still in existence?"

I have responded that 'Kemp' used to be a very well known name around here. I am ** years old, was born in Cowbeech and the only blacksmith my father ever used (or spoke of) was Alf Payne at Rushlake Green. 'The Old Forge', much enlarged, still exists as a private house at the top of Hammer Lane. There are very few people who have been around longer than I have but I will certainly ask.

I have suggested she tries all the Parish Records, the churchyard etc but if anyone can help, I'll put you in touch with Michelle

London Marathon 2008

Cowbeech has a runner in the London Marathon - Jonathan Dexter ran for the Multiple Sclerosis Society. He finished in 3 hours, 44 minutes 13 seconds, finishing in 23259th place ! The Bonfire Society has sponsored him for £20 per mile but I'm sure more would be greatly appreciated

CLEAN AIR NEEDED OVER COWBEECH -

You can't have failed to notice the unpleasant odours currently pervading the air over Cowbeech.

I phoned Meridian TV and I called Environmental Health at Wealden on 10th April and was told that the spreading of (treated) human effluent over farm-land had been sanctioned by the Environment Agency. However, they had an officer (on a bicycle !) patrolling the area and my complaint would be passed to him.

He phoned this morning (11th April), agreed the smell was extremely unpleasant and said he would be taking the matter up with Powers That Be - and would keep in touch.

In the meantime Meridian TV expressed an interest and came this morning, chatted to Arnold Goldman, Graham Lee, Michael Errey, Rod Catt, Marvin and me (your new webmaster, Sally) and recorded our comments. Michael and I actually 'spoke to camera'. Obviously the owner of the land will be given the right to reply.

Meridian went up to Broomy Meadow and, keeping strictly to the Public Footpath (I notice the sign has been blacked out ???), filmed the two fields, Broomy Meadow and Catermans. The pile of whateveritwas has obviously now been spread because it has vanished.

My next trick has been to get the local Press interested because I do not pay rates (and nor do any of us !) for this sort of unpleasant addition to normal scents and smells of the countryside. I will keep nagging until the Press do wake up and call me back. I doubt that much can be done now - and we'll probably have to suffer until the weather and nature disposes of this problem - but I will use this space if there is anything else to report.

OK, now you have one incandescent webmaster. We pay water (delivery) to South East Water, and water (removal = sewage) to Southern Water but its THAMES Water, according to Meridian news tonight, that has dumped this effluent over our village. . .

Graham has found a very interesting link NIOSH Hazard ID List

I'd welcome comments -

Update on the foregoing - Following a great deal of correspondence and a meeting with a representative of the Environment Agency, a petition was drafted and signed by an enormous number of residents of this village, unwilling to suffer a similar stench again.

Thanks !

We are indebted to Ray Ellis for the following cutting from Farmers Weekly. Perhaps we may escape further unpleasantness if a more acceptable smell can be contrived.

Email : Sally or Tel : + 44 (0) 1323 833293 or Skype: -->

 

PANDEMONIUM IN PANTOLAND
9, 10 and 11 JANUARY 2008

Mary Ann Gordon, MHBS Secretary, writes:

For the second year running the Cowbeech Palladium (which masquerades for the rest of the year as the Restaurant at the Merrie Harriers) was open for the annual pantomime. The intimacy of the space limited the number of seats available per performance and so this year the number of performances was increased from three to six to enable more people to attend and so the company performed at 7pm and again at 9pm on three successive evenings. The ticket prices included a splendid buffet provided by Duncan Smart and his staff after each performance so that everyone had a very convivial evening with an added opportunity to chat to relatives, friends and neighbours. Once again the pantomime was written, directed and produced by Chris Malcolm who kept the enlarged cast (21 in all) in order and encouraged us all through the Sunday evening rehearsals from September onwards.   This year the story concerned the Demon King’s efforts to take revenge on the Fairy Queen who had triumphed over him last year in "Cinderella". His bid to do so coincided with the 300 Birthday Ball of Pantomime at Cowbeech Place to which a host of characters were invited including Robinson Crusoe and Man Friday, Jack (of Beanstalk fame) and his mother Dame Trott, accompanied by their cow Daisy, Cinderella and Prince Charming still being hassled by the Ugly Sisters, Aladdin and Widow Twankey, Simple Simon, Red Riding Hood, Dick Whittington with Felix his cat, Snow White and Bashful (our youngest/smallest performer Harry Neale), and Peter Pan and Captain Hook. The Demon King equipped with a magic potion provided by the Three Witches (on loan by MacBeth), and cunningly disguised as Pantaloon lured all the guests with his mandolin into a false sense of goodwill and then persuaded them to drink his evil potion.

The result was their characters were transformed into a quarrelsome, abusive rabble (quite unlike their alter egos in pantomime or real life!) before the audience’s very eyes.   The Fairy Queen was fortunately on hand with the antidote, “eggs of the quail from the Maskell George” (a local delicacy) and she then “unfrocked” Pantaloon revealing the Demon King who was also forced to eat quails’ eggs and then crawled off the stage in disgrace. The Show included a show stopping sequence of songs and dances from the four dames; a kicking cow who “passed” sweeties, and many illusions to current events and local personalities. It closed with a sequence from the George Mitchell “Technicolour” Minstrels with a homage to Al Jolson (sparkingly performed by young Charlie Neale). Musical accompaniment was provided by Goff Bowles, and Dave Bisp did wonders with the lighting and special effects including prompts for the audience to encourage them to join in. The cast all performed with great gusto and Colin Ferguson brought particular menace to the Demon and a delightful campness to Pantaloon. All six performances were sold out and tickets that had to be returned at the last minute due to illness were all snapped up. If you missed it a  DVD will soon be available. All the audiences joined in with spirit. Both during the performances and during the refreshments afterwards  there was a great feeling of  friendship and goodwill. The event has also further swelled the coffers of the Merrie Harriers Bonfire Society which will be making its annual distribution of funds to local good causes at our Presentation Dinner on Sunday 20th April. We are therefore happy to report that the magic of pantomime is certainly alive and flourishing in Cowbeech.  To see a full set of photos - click on Gallery

DIG FOR VICTORY
5 AUGUST 2007

CLICK HERE for the report on the afternoon's activity by Les Webb. It begins:

Yet another glorious August Sunday greeted the Exhibitors and Visitors to the Dig for Victory Village Show held in Cowbeech at the Merrie Harriers Inn.  The show has a 1940’s theme and even the weather with its old-fashioned ‘hay-making heat’ seemed determined to play a part in turning back the clock to those fabled summers of hard times but never-ending sunshine.  This was the twelfth annual Dig for Victory and bad weather has yet to hamper the charity fund-raising efforts of the Merrie Harriers Bonfire Society and its small army of helpers....

CLICK HERE for the results of the exhibits.

MERRIE HARRIERS BONFIRE SOCIETY
10,000 METRES FOOTPATH MARCH
12 MAY 2007

before the walk: Mick Goodsell at left; photo: Duncan Smart

Les Webb, Committee Member, writes:

FUNDRAISERS PUT BEST FEET FORWARD FOR CHARITY

The 10,000 metre Footpath March is an open event staged by the Merrie Harriers Bonfire Society so that individuals can use it to raise money for their own ‘Good Causes’.  It follows a picturesque and undulating route that starts and ends in Cowbeech mainly using Public Footpaths with just a few short stretches of quiet country lanes.

Despite a period of heavy rain in the days leading up to the event the course selected remained firm and pleasant underfoot and the biggest disappointment was that the Bluebells had been early this year and there were relatively few in evidence through the wooded sectors.

Thirty six 'Sponsored Walkers' and eight dogs [possibly nine: see Bertie adds] set out on the course that began and ended at The Merrie Harriers in Cowbeech, together with around twenty 'chaperones' for the younger entrants.  They were all 'Counted Out' then registered at four Checkpoints and finally 'Counted Back In' at The Merrie Harriers and although many were tired there was nothing more serious than a few blisters to contend with. Certificates of Achievement were waiting for every 'Sponsored Walker' including the dogs that had the additional bonus of a Rosette and a few 'treats'.

Walkers were participating in support of their own favourite charity or cause and therefore it is not possible to calculate exactly how much was raised by the event however some data has been provided and this sets an example of just what can be achieved. Alex Cutmore raised £60.00 towards the cost of providing wall-bars for the pupils of Herstmonceux Primary School; Bertie, accompanied by Arnold Goldman, raised £100.00 for the Herstmonceux Village Information Centre; The Merrie Harriers Bonfire Society had five walkers and expects to benefit by around £250.00. Other 'Good Causes' being supported were All Saints & St Richards Primary School: Herstmonceux Cubs and the Polegate Grasshoppers Junior Football Team who were raising funds towards a tournament on the Continent.

The Bonfire Society thanks all supporters for their help: congratulates all those that took part and invites everyone to note that in 2008 the event will be on Saturday the 10^th of May and entries should be advised at least a week earlier.

Bertie adds:

This year the walk went clockwise from the pub, down Trolliloes Lane, down Bemzells Lane and Studdens Lane, across the orchard, etc etc, ending by coming through the bluebell wood behind Shaws/Simon Turner and back to the pub. Me, I like things always the same, but it was still a nice run. The first six dogs home were Remy, Hootch (backside visible in picture above), Reg II, Misty, me (in picture) and Chelsea (v. game Yorkie). Other dogs included Max, Tuppence and Otto, whose job it was to bring the signposts back. I didn't need a bath afterwards, though Arnold took one, denying me either a rosette or a treat. Not fair.

MERRIE HARRIERS BONFIRE SOCIETY
ANNUAL PRESENTATION DINNER
22 APRIL 2007

Les Webb, Bonfire Society Committee Member, writes:

"Supporters of the Merrie Harriers Bonfire Society gathered in Cowbeech on Sunday evening to mark the end of a successful year of fundraising activities. Dinner at the Merrie Harriers was followed by the presentation of cheques to representatives of twelve selected organisations.

"With the introduction this year of a new event, the Pantomime, there was a record £5,200 available to distribute and the organisations which benefited were:

Demelza-James (children's hospice at home)  - £1,000 Herstmonceux CE Primary School - £250 Herstmonceux Cubs - £500 Herstmonceux Guides - £500 Herstmonceux Lunch Club - £400 Herstmonceux Rainbows - £250

Herstmonceux Village Information Centre - £200 Ray & Sheldon Social Club - £400 Riding & Driving for the Disabled - £400 St John's Ambulance - £400 St Wilfrid's Hospice, Eastbourne - £500 Viewcraft - £400

"When presented with their cheque the representative for the Good Cause gave a brief talk on the aims of the organisation and an idea of the use to which the money would be put. The MHBS Chairman Mick Goodsell ended the proceedings with thanks to all guests and supporters and a pledge to continue to work hard to raise fresh funds for the coming year.

The new landlord at the Merrie Harriers, Duncan Smart, took the photographs of the presentations,

MERRIE HARRIERS BONFIRE SOCIETY PANTOMIME
DEMON IN FAIRYLAND
12 JANUARY 2007
 

Les Webb, Marrie Harriers Bonfire Society committee member, writes:

Roger Cotton, the Merrie Harriers’ publican, relinquished use of the restaurant so that it could be transformed into an intimate theatre space and provided an excellent Buffet that was included in the ticket price for Demon in Fairyland.

The pantomime was written, produced and directed by Merrie Harriers Bonfire Society supporter Chris Malcolm to raise additional money for the Society’s Good Causes Funds.

The cast were all total showbiz novices but after 14 weeks of rehearsals gave three performances last Friday that were met with wholehearted appreciation by three full houses. 

On just the one night over £800 was raised which will be used to support local good causes.  All those who were unable to secure tickets - and they were perhaps harder to get than for the next Cup Final at Wembley - may wish to know that a DVD is being produced. The DVD will make an ideal souvenir or a substitute for missing the live performances. 

The unofficial motto of the Bonfire Society is “Having fun; making money” and the event was certainly tremendously enjoyable and pleasurably profitable. The Committee is more than grateful to Chris Malcolm, the cast and backstage staff for the wonderful event.

The Bonfire Society Committee is very grateful to Chris Malcolm and to all the cast for the time & effort they put in. Special thanks to all who supported the show by buying tickets and Souvenir Programmes and contributing to the Raffle.

the speed limit through Cowbeech village is 30mph
REPORT INFRACTIONS TO 0845 60 70 999 - RECORDS ARE KEPT AND WARNING LETTERS ARE WRITTEN
report people using mobile telephones while driving

Merrie Harriers Ladies Darts & Social Group

Niamh Layberry writes:
"The idea behind this ladies darts night is to have a social night for all women and hopefully in the future to challenge other ladies teams to matches. Roger has kindly agreed to allow us to practice and play matches at the Merrie Harriers. He has also donated a sum towards purchasing the darts board.
"The aim is to meet the second Thursday of the month at 8pm in the Merrie Harriers.
"Sam Hobden is the manager. Sam has kindly agreed to take care of [sic] the team, explain the rules, manage the scoreboard, pick the teams etc."

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