Whatlington village voice

Donations so far have totalled £34,843.63, as fantastic sum in this very deep economic crisis. I am just overwhelmed with people’s generosity as are all the church members. As mentioned before we have already spent £5379.79 on surveys to ensure that the works are carried out expertly.

I would also like to take this opportunity of personally thanking all those who have sent cards/letters of condolence to us at this very sad time. These messages and people’s love and concern certainly have given us much comfort.

Hamish’s Service of Thanksgiving for his life was held at St John the Baptist church, Sedlescombe last week (sadly not at St. Mary Magdalene Church, Whatlington, as it is still being restored after the fire) was a very joyful occasions which his many friends & relatives were able to join in with. The service was led by the Reverend Kevin Mepham, assisted by the Reverend Angela Cooke and reader Jacqueline Kemp who all made the service so personal to Hamish. Jacqueline led the prayers, standing amidst the congregation, Angela read Corinthians, chapter 13 with so much feeling that I felt the love, and Kevin conducted the service with such compassion and understanding. We thank Valerie for reading the poem “He is Gone” and John, Hamish’s brother for reading the Eulogy. Say not in grief, “he is no more” but live in thankfulness that he was.

We moved to Battle some 12 years ago and Hamish was so happy hear. He had the sea close by and he had made many friends here.

Many of you will remember Hamish for his work in our churchyard, for giving lifts to people, for delivering the Whatlington News and for doing barbecues at church events.

News from Alex at The Royal Oak:

Quiz night is every Thursday from 8pm at The Royal Oak from 8pm - always a fun evening and a popular night out for teams of up to six people, £1 entry per person.

Just one week before the next fabulous Irish Music Night at The Royal Oak, so keep Friday 28th September from 8.30pm free in your diary! Admission is free, the usual menu is served until 9pm - please call and book if you would like to reserve a table.

The next Royal Oak wine tasting evening will be on Saturday 29th September at 9pm. Hazel, our local wine enthusiast will guide us through a variety of red wines from around the World for just £5 a ticket. If you would like to come along, please let me know on 01424 870492.

“Friday Nights” by Joanna Trollope is the next book that the Royal Oak Readers will be reviewing at Book Club on Tuesday 16th October - everyone is welcome to come along and meet at 7.30pm for a drink and a chat.

Don’t forget to reserve your tickets early for the next Psychic Nights evening at The Royal Oak on Saturday October 20th from 7.30pm. Local Master Palmist Robin Lown and his guest Medium Grant Colyer will be conducting another “audience with” type session in The Barn at The Royal Oak, which was amazing last time. Tickets just £10 each for an incredible evening of entertainment and insight, call 01424 870492 if you would like to book a space.

The Village Hall are holding a 40s night on Friday 19th October which is sure to be an amazing evening of nostalgia, music and dancing - 40s costume is a must! Book your tickets now - just £10 each to include a light supper. The fun begins at 8pm in Whatlington Village Hall, I’m sure we’ll be dancing all night! Tickets are available from The Royal Oak 01424 870492 or Angie Moore 01424 870087.

The next Village Hall Jumble Sale will be held at 10am on Saturday 27th October with all proceeds going towards maintenance costs of the Hall. Please drop off any jumble at The Royal Oak, or call Angie on 01424 870087 to arrange collection.

Andrew Ratcliffe, Whatlington