Staplecross

Glenys Griffiths who lives and works in Ewhurst Green is a member of Artists of Rother Valley and this weekend at the Muddy Duck Northiam between 11am-5pm there is to be a selection of their work in a Christmas Art Show. There will be paintings, etchings, photographs, ceramics, glass, jewellery and cards – all original work – to view or to buy and maybe solve a Christmas present or two. The Ewhurst, Staplecross and Bodiam Garden Society held its annual meeting two days early due to the Police Commission election commandeering the village hall! As a result it was felt that the gardening fraternity attendance was down on Tuesday of last week. Chairman Pam Underhill paid tribute to the support she had received over the past year from the committee, particularly Ruth Close and Pam Dance. It had not been the best year for gardeners, with the daffodils over by the time of the Spring Show, but these were replaced by blooming tulips. She urged members to “have a go” and participate in the Shows, after all “It is the taking part, not the winning”. The passing of Beryl Peacham was very sad and she is sorely missed, especially the superb apples she produced. Pam Underhill said the Society looked forward to another year in the garden – whatever the weather. Treasurer Pam Dance reported that there was no deficit for the year. Fundraising was still important and with that in mind there is to be a Quiz in January as usual rather than a monthly meeting – providing of course, we are not snowed in. The purchase of a new projector and screen had certainly improved picture quality. Volunteers were asked to come forward to participate in the church’s Christmas Tree Festival to be held in St James Ewhurst Green on Friday December 14 and Saturday December 15. Two people came forward so once again the garden society will be represented. The Chairman and committee were re-elected for a further year. The evening was completed by guest Dr S Charlesworth showing lovely pictures of his lavender and telling us how his small beginnings have now grown, providing oils as well as plants. Members were reminded of the next meeting which will be the Christmas Party and also that subscriptions for next year need to be paid. In order to support SCATS forthcoming pantomime in January, the society is holding a jumble sale next Saturday (December 1). There will be the usual stalls plus Christmas goodies and anyone requiring more information or help in delivering donations to the village hall on the morning of the sale should telephone 830570 or 830245. The afternoon sale starts at 2pm. Do you have a computer and do you wish to improve the broadband facility. Improvements are being rolled out across the county, but not necessarily in rural areas where in increasing instances businesses are being operated. To add your “voice” you should tap into www.goesussex.co.uk. This campaign has just been launched to improve the poor internet access and speed in this part of Sussex.