News from Smeeton Westerby
Our church in Smeeton Westerby has been in existence since 1848/9. For those of you who have visited, I think you will agree that it is a beautiful church in a glorious rural setting. The church council has always been diligent in keeping up with repairs and maintenance. They have ensured that it remains in the excellent condition that you find it today. However, you will have noticed that the footpath in front of the churchyard has had to be coned off. This is due to the ‘lean outwards’ of the churchyard wall having significantly increased. So much so that there is now a greater danger of it collapsing onto the footpath and highway. This is due to the soil behind it and the roots of a large, lime tree pushing against it.
In the interest of Health and Safety, the PCC have sought advice from professional bodies. Due to the added complications of the proximity of some ancient graves, it has been advised to put in large concrete ballast blocks underground behind the wall and to then rebuild it on stronger foundations using the original bricks.
This project could cost in the region of £50,000. The PCC is therefore having to start a serious fundraising programme. Unfortunately, the disruption will continue until the work is completed which may very well take some time. We therefore ask for your continued diligence when driving through our village.
Dates for the diary
The Village Hall
On Friday 29 May, chef Francesco Mattana will be in the village hall. He will be talking about his new cookbook, ‘Eat like a Sardinian’. This will be followed by canapes and a book signing at The King’s Head. Tickets for the talk are £16 and can be purchased directly from Kibworth Books. (kibworthbooks.com).
The Kings Head
On Wednesday 3 June, Leicester Morris Men will be dancing at 8.45pm and as it’s also Jazz night with The Fourmasons, be prepared for ‘Morris Jazz or Jazz Morris’!
On Friday 5 and Saturday 6 June, it’s the ‘Sausage and Cider festival’ with the band ‘Hubcap’ playing psychedelic blues rock. Look out for food details and timings soon!
On Sunday 21 June, it’s the Gems’ ‘Summer Shindig’, when there will be live music, a BBQ, a plant sale and games.
Christ Church
On Sunday 31 May, we welcome you to our ‘Outdoor Family Service’ hosted by Janet and Gordon Arthur at Highfields, Gumley Road. Breakfast starts at 9.30am when bacon and sausage baps will be served, along with other options, with the family service starting at 10am. All that we ask is, if you have one, please bring a folding chair. If the weather is inclement, we will hold the service in the church.
Janet Gilbert
Leicestershire Wildlife Hospital
