News from Smeeton Westerby
As you drive through our village, have you noticed that our new village sign has been erected? Sitting on the little green in the middle of the village, it takes pride of place and looks magnificent! This project began by a group of us agreeing how lovely it would be to celebrate our village in this way. So, ideas were gathered from residents as to what we thought were the most celebrated aspects of village life.
Our beautiful church took pride of place, as well as the importance of our rural setting. Having allotments and wildlife so integral to the village as well as the great importance of our farming community, a picture started to evolve.
We commissioned Glyn Mould, the celebrated wood carver, to start the work. He visited the village to talk to us in order to get a better understanding of what we wanted. We took him to the church and showed him our beautiful Candlemas stained glass window. The window was created by Charles Eamer Kempe who always signed his work with a sheaf of corn.
We also explained to him about the ancient Beaker people whose artifacts have been found in and around the village. Add to that the proximity of the canal and our village sign started to take shape. Glyn then took numerous photographs before going away to inform his designs. These were then shared with the Parish Council, the village hall committee and other interested parties until we all agreed on both the design and position. We are delighted with the result so do come and take a look.
January
January was a quiet month here in Smeeton Westerby as far as events are concerned. Most people hunkering down in the warmth of their own homes. However, Edd and Andrew at The Kings Head welcomed many of you to their Winter Warmer Night offering good traditional English food of Toad in the Hole, Fish Pie and Shepherd’s Pie, just the sort of food needed on a cold winter’s night. Next came their Burns Night, another feast, this time of good Scottish fayre and whiskies galore. Then on 31st January, they held their Charity Quiz night for GEMS. A cause that has always been dear to the village and the pub.
Looking Forward
So, what is next? On Saturday 28 February, there will be another charity quiz night for GEMS but booking for this very popular night is essential.
Then on Tuesday 3 March it is meet ‘Parish Brewery’ where there will be a meal, ale tasting and a talk. The next night is Live Jazz Night. Whilst on the weekend of 13 to 15 , it’s the pub’s 3rd Birthday Beer Festival with live music from Slim Jim Blues.
The next big village hall event is on Saturday 11th April, when once again we are welcoming Tony Harris, actor, comedian and historian to give us his performance, this time, of Donald Trump. This should be a most amusing evening beginning at 7pm for 7.30pm. Of course, there will be a delicious meal served first before the show begins. Tickets are £15 and can be reserved by ringing Nicola on Tel:07887578319. The one thing we do ask is that you bring your own drinks and glasses.
Please note that our CoCo (Coffee and Conversation) morning in February unfortunately will not take place. But it will be back on Thursday 18 March, so do put that in your diaries.
Janet Gilbert
