St Peter's Church - Village News - Hambledon Parish Magazine - March 2019 60p
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Hambledon Parish Magazine
St Peter’s Church
& Village News
March
2019
60p
www.hambledonsurrey.co.uk
Hambledon Parish Magazine, March 2019 Page 1
Hambledon Parish Magazine, March 2019, Page 2
PARISH CHURCH OF ST PETER, HAMBLEDON
Rector The Rev Simon Taylor 01483 421267
simon.taylor@bhcgodalming.org
Associate Vicar Position advertised
Assistant Vicar The Rev David Jenkins 01483 416084
6 Quartermile Road
Godalming, GU7 1TG
Curate The Rev David Preece 01483 421267
david.preece@bhcgodalming.org
Churchwarden Mrs Elizabeth Cooke 01483 208637
Marepond Farm, Markwick Lane
Loxhill, Godalming, GU8 4BD
Churchwarden Alan Harvey 01483 423264
35 Maplehatch Close
Godalming, GU7 1TQ
Assistant Churchwarden David Chadwick, Little Beeches 01252 702268
14 Springhill, Elstead
Godalming, GU8 6EL
Pastoral Assistant Mrs Jacqui Rook 01428 684390
1 Hambledon Park
Hambledon, GU8 4ER
Church Treasurer & Gift Aid Andrew Dunn 01428 482113
The Cottage, Lane End
Hambledon, GU8 4HD
Sunday Services
Full details of these and any other services are set out in the Church Calendar for the month,
which is shown on page 5
The Church has a number of Home Groups which meet regularly during the week at various locations.
Details from Hambledon and Busbridge Church Office
Tel: 01483 421267
Alpha details and information from: Hambledon Copy deadline for the
and Busbridge Church Office Tel: 01483 421267
Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals contact April magazine
Hambledon and Busbridge Church Office
Tel No: 01483 421267 (Mon – Friday, 9.30am – 12.30pm)
The deadline is Thursday, 21 March
Where there is sickness or where a visit would be valued,
contact the Church Wardens Please send your copy to
Jane Woolley
The Rector is normally off duty on Fridays Cobblers, Woodlands Road
The nearest Roman Catholic churches are St Teresa of Hambledon GU8 4HL
Avila, Chiddingfold (Fr Irek Stadler, 01428 643877); 01428 684213
St Edmund, Croft Rd, Godalming and St Joseph’s, email: j.woolley881@btinternet.com
Milford (Fr David Parmiter, 01483 416880)
Advertisers, please contact
Emma Dunn
TO SUBSCRIBE AND HAVE The Cottage, Lane End
Hambledon, GU8 4HD
THE MAGAZINE DELIVERED, £6 per year 01428 482113
PLEASE CONTACT: MARY PARKER email: em-whitehead@hotmail.com
Telephone: 01428 682545
Hambledon Parish Magazine, March 2019 Page 3
Treasurer’s letter – March
Dear all
W e are fortunate in Hambledon to have so many things which make our community a special
place to live or visit. Our woods and green spaces, the shop, pub, village hall, football and
cricket clubs, schools, groups and societies… they all give us much to be thankful for, along
with our church, St Peter’s. Some people use or enjoy these things more than others but I reckon most
are pleased they all exist.
Those who run St Peter’s want to give everyone an opportunity to hear how the church is funded
and to discuss ideas for ministry in the village. This very much includes those who might appreciate the
presence of the church even if they are not regulars in the congregation. The essence of faith, after all, is
to connect with people. With that in mind everyone is invited to one or both of the following:
– Meeting at Church on Sunday 3 March at 9am
– Meeting in the Village Hall on Thursday 7 March at 8pm with refreshments
One of the topics for discussion will be the recruitment of a new minister for Hambledon, to
replace The Rev Catherine McBride who left in October 2017. People will also hear what is happening
with the accommodation at Mervil Bottom and how recent negotiations with the Diocese have resulted
in that property being guaranteed for the village for at least the foreseeable future. It is important that
people should know of these things and have a chance to shape ideas to benefit the whole community.
Perhaps an appropriate verse for the moment would be 1 Peter 5 : 6 :
Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time.
Best wishes,
Andrew Andrew Dunn, Treasurer
St. Peter’s, Hambledon
Foreign Secretary and local MP Jeremy Hunt speaks on behalf of persecuted Christians
H e has voiced his deep concern for Christians facing persecution worldwide. He has warned
that a “misguided political correctness must not inhibit the Government’s response to religious
persecution, and that with Christianity on the verge of extinction in its birthplace, it is time for con-
certed action that begins to turn the tide.” In the Middle East, the Christian population has fallen
from 20% to 5% of the total during the past 100 years. Mr. Hunt has also said that he is not con-
vinced that Britain’s response to the threats facing Christians had “always matched the scale of the
problem, nor taken account of the hard evidence that Christians often endure a disproportionate
burden of persecution. “Perhaps this is born out of the very British sense of awkwardness at
‘doing God’. Perhaps it’s an awareness of our colonial history, or, because Britain is a traditionally
Christian country, some are fearful of being seen to help Christians in desperate need.” Whatever
the reason, Mr Hunt said, “We must never allow a misguided political correctness to inhibit our re-
sponse to the persecution of any religious community.”
Mr Hunt has appointed the Bishop of Truro, The Rt Rev Philip Mounstephen to lead a global
review of the situation, and to report back by Easter. The Bishop was previously executive leader of
Church Mission Society.
Hambledon Parish Magazine, March 2019, Page 4
CHURCH CALENDAR
March 2019
3rd March 9.00 am Church Meeting (see page 9)
Sunday next before Lent NB: no 10.30 am service, Messy Church postponed
___________________________________________________
Wednesday 6th March 8.00 pm Holy Communion (CW) with Ashing Service
Ash Wednesday at St John’s, Busbridge
_______________________________________________________
Thursday 7th March 9-9.30 am Morning Prayer
___________________________________________________
10th March 9.00 am Matins (BCP)
1st Sunday of Lent 10.30 am Morning Worship
___________________________________________________
Thursday 14th March 9-9.30 am Morning Prayer
___________________________________________________
Saturday 16th March 8.30-10 am Prayer Breakfast
A time to meet together for prayer. All are welcome.
___________________________________________________
17th March 9.00 am Holy Communion (BCP)
2nd Sunday of Lent 10.30 am Morning Worship & Baptism
___________________________________________________
Thursday 21st March 9-9.30 am Morning Prayer
_________________________________________________
24th March 10.30 am Morning Worship NB – No 9.00 am service
3rd Sunday of Lent 4.00 pm Passiontide Choral Evensong
_________________________________________________
Thursday 28th March 9-9.30 am Morning Prayer
______________________________________
31st March Mothering 9.00am BST * Matins (BCP) * clocks go
4th Sunday of Lent Sunday 10.30am BST * Morning Worship forward
______________________________________
And...
Thursday 4th April 9-9.30 am Morning Prayer
__________________________________________________
Services at St John’s, Busbridge in March
8.00 am Every Sunday: Holy Communion (said)
10.00 am Classic Service in Church: Contemporary Service in School:
1st Sunday: Morning Worship & Baptism 1st Sunday: All Age – Mark Puddephat & the FUSE Team
Ash Wednesday 6th March 8.00 pm Holy Communion (CW) at Busbridge with Ashing
2nd Sunday: Holy Communion (CW) 2nd Sunday: Morning Worship
3rd Sunday: Morning Worship 3rd Sunday: Holy Communion (CW)
4th Sunday: Holy Communion (CW) 4th Sunday: Morning Worship
5th Sunday: Morning Worship 5th Sunday: Morning Worship clocks go forward
– Groups for children of all ages in various locations: turn up and ask!
6.30 pm Benefice Evening Worship:
1st Sunday: Holy Communion; 2nd, 4th & 5th Sundays: Evening Worship; 3rd Sunday: Unplugged
Hambledon Parish Magazine, March 2019 Page 5
PARISH & PEOPLE
Thank you from Karen and Martin The cards, messages, flowers and gifts have been
We would like to thank all our friends, colleagues and overwhelming. It has been such a comfort to know so
neighbours in and around Hambledon for the love and many people are thinking of us. We miss Ben so very
support we have received at this devastating time. much. Thank you all. Karen and Martin
Ross Kilsby writes: I must apologise for the haphazard And then in the middle of all this, our doctors’ surgery
Ramblings over the last few months but as you may in Chiddingfold burnt down. So my Ramblings will be
know “Goodwife Jan” has been diagnosed with cancer, a bit scarce for a while. Please give Jan a ring or drop
and is having lots of treatment at the Royal Surrey. her a line, and pray for her, coz she is lovely! Ross
Village Friends and neighbours are all so pleased that celebrate Sylvia’s 90th birthday, a very special day.
Mic Coleman is now back home after a spell in hos- Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with others
pital. It is wonderful that he was home in time to who are still in hospital at the moment.
Magazine accounts and advertising administration: (and introducied its present A4 format), until handing
You will notice that accounts and advertising admin over editorial work in 2010.
for the magazine have passed from Derek Miller to He gamely took over the accounts and advertis-
Emma Dunn, who has kindly agreed to take over. ing from Tony Parker in August 2015. The Village
Derek followed Pat Williams as editor in 2000 has much for which to thank him, and also Cynthia.
Speeding and Road Safety: Parish Councillor Stewart Payne reports the latest
H ambledon Parish Council is holding talks with
Surrey County Council highways engineers and
Surrey Police road safety officers in order to press
This meeting was due to have taken place on
February 26th, after this magazine went to press.
Adrian Selby, senior highways engineer and Gra-
home its case for measures to reduce the speed of traf- ham Cannon from the road safety traffic management
fic through the village. It is also raising concerns about office were expected to attend along with PC Milford
road safety at the Hydestile Crossroads and along the and councillors Grove and Payne. However, in an
narrow Salt Lane and Markwick Lane, now a rat-run earlier communication with Mr Selby, he stated that he
and likely to become more of a danger if and when the thought it “extremely unlikely” that Hambledon would
approved new homes are built at Dunsfold Aerodrome. meet the criteria for lowering the current 30mph limit
For many months councillors Mary Grove and in the village centre. He also stated that SCC data did
Stewart Payne have been attending meetings of a not indicate that any “particular safety problem exists”
working group headed by the Surrey Hills Area of in Hambledon and
Outstanding Natural Beauty organisation, which pro- that he was not able
motes and supports initiatives to reduce traffic speed to recommend any
in rural villages. As a result Hambledon’s issues will engineering measures
be on the agenda at the next meeting of the Highways such as changes to
Working Group. This meeting is likely to be hosted in road surfacing or road
Hambledon at a date to be arranged. narrowing.
The council has been investigating whether a Rob Fairbanks,
20mph speed limit could be introduced in the centre of Surrey Hills AONB
the village. A number of villagers have also proposed director also doubts
this reduction after experiencing speeding traffic along that Hambledon will
Hambledon Road, in particular in the narrow section meet national criteria
outside the Merry Harriers pub and the village nursery for a 20mph zone.
school, both of which have expressed support for traf- Despite this,
fic calming measures. Meanwhile, the council has Hambledon Parish Council has persisted and the meet-
secured a meeting with Surrey County Council with ing provides an opportunity to show SCC officers
the help of Steve Milford, Surrey Police’s Casualty around the village and to discuss its concerns face-to-
Reduction Officer. Only SCC has the authority to ap- face. Any developments will appear in future editions
prove road changes and reduce speed limits. of the magazine.
continued
Hambledon Parish Magazine, March 2019, Page 6
From ‘Hedley Close’ to HGVs
It was a wide-ranging agenda for the last meeting of the Parish Council, as the
(now) not-so-new-Clerk Julie Flenley reports. And she is very much hoping to meet
as many of her parishioners as possible at the Annual Village Meeting on 25 April.
A ll Councillors were welcomed, alongside
Joana Cadman (Assistant Clerk) at the Febru-
ary meeting. A busy agenda included a dis-
cussion of village maintenance issues and the annual
Finally, work will be undertaken to unblock the
gully at the Hydestile crossroads which is damaging
the roadside.
There has been progress with traffic calming and
risk assessment, local planning applications, the forth- speeding issues within the village. It was concerning
coming Annual Village Meeting on 25 April, an to note the number of serious accidents within the
up-date on village speed limits, issues surrounding dog village during the recent spate of cold weather. Cllrs.
fouling and Hambledon village organisations. Grove and Payne have, over the last eight months,
The discussions on planning included the engaged regularly with the Surrey Hills Working
Hawksmoor Homes development at Hambledon House Group and Surrey County Council and latterly,
Farm Buildings and the associated street-naming through PC Steve Milford, Surrey Police Casualty
application. The recent planning application, Reduction Officer, have secured an on-site meeting on
WA/2018/1883, has now been approved by Waverley 26 February with Surrey County Council’s Highways
Borough Council which acknowledged the complex representatives and PC Milford to discuss what might
planning history of the site. However, the Council be done to calm traffic speed/reduce HGVs through
also acknowledged that, under Section 73 of the Town the village and also on Salt Lane. This issue will be
and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended), the reported on at the next Parish Council meeting at 8pm
proposal is, in effect, a fresh application for the entire on 5 March; in the meantime there is a more in-depth
development, albeit with a variation to that original report from Cllr Payne in this issue on page 6 opposite.
condition. Four Welcome Packs have recently been given
With the associated street-naming application for out to new families within the village.
Hambledon House Farm Buildings, it was noted that Dog fouling in the area behind Hambledon
the Parish Council felt that the name ‘Hedley Close’ Church will be monitored for the next three – six
was more in keeping with the history of the area and months. Thereafter the Parish Council will be able to
one which prevented any confusion with properties move forward towards a developing a strategy for
within the locality. As the Council’s preferred option tackling the issue.
it was submitted to Waverley Borough Council; and In terms of up and coming village events, there
it has now been replaced by the developers over their will be meetings at St Peter’s Church on Sunday 3
previous choice – ‘Warren Lane’. March at 9am and at the Village Hall on Thursday 7
The Parish Council had also received a planning March at 8pm to consider how a Minister living in the
application for the installation of a swimming pool at Parish and the village can best contribute to Hamble-
Highfield House. It received no objections from don’s community life. The Village Hall AGM will be
Councillors and this has been communicated to on 28 February and Between You and Me, Ian McMil-
Waverley Borough Council. lian and Luke Carver-Goss’ celebration of village halls
Village maintenance was then considered. The everywhere, is on the evening of 5 April.
Parish Council is looking closely at rectifying the The Parish Council looks forward to welcoming
consistently flooded Bridleway 186 and hopes that Hambledonians to the Annual Village Meeting on 25
ditching it will divert water off the pathway and create April at 8.00pm in the Village Hall, which will also
increased ease of use for walkers. The work will take give me a chance to meet more of the you. The village
place on and around 8 March. clean-up will follow on 27 April, starting at10.00 am
The Parish Council is also engaged in the re-fixing at the Village Shop and followed by a free BBQ which
of the wooden posts located at Hambledon Village will run from mid-day. All help and support will be
Shop. This work will be completed by April. The much appreciated and equipment will be provided.
broken posts will be replaced with new ones and the All Parish Council minutes and current agenda
existing Surrey Hills emblemed ones will be rejigged can be found on the Parish Council pages of the
to protect them from further damage from traffic. village website: www.hambledonsurrey.co.uk.
Having Hambledon’s concerns on the agenda of send a subliminal message to slow down. Hamble-
the next meeting of the Surrey Hills working group is don council will also be asking the AONB to add its
also a step forward. It will consider how the village weight to any proposed measures. Surrey CC has se-
may benefit from other measures, such as roadside vere budget limitations, even if it does approve
planting and street “furniture” that will emphasise to schemes, and it may be that villagers will have to help
drivers the narrow and rural character of the roads and fund any initiatives that emerge.
Hambledon Parish Magazine, March 2019 Page 7
e village
ppen in g . . . ..i n and around th
What’s ha
will meet on 6,13,20 & 27 March
Friday 1 March, 8 pm Friday 15 March, 8 pm
Crazy Rich Asians (2018). Based on the Bohenian Rhapsody,
acclaimed worldwide (2018) a celebration
bestseller. New Yorker of Queen, their mu-
Rachel Chu (Constance book tickets online sic, amazing lead
Wu) goes with boyfriend chiddingfoldcin- singer Freddie Mer-
Nick Young (Henry Gold- erna.corn
Tickets £6 Adults, cury, who defied
ing) to his best friend's stereotypes and shat-
wedding in Singapore
£3 for under 15s
tered convention to
and meets his family for the first be one of the most loved enter-
time. Excited to visit Asia for the tainers on Earth (Rami Malek).
first time, Rachel is unprepared Leads up to the famous performance at LiveAid in
to learn that Nick has not men- 1985 when Freddie Mercury, led one of the greatest
tioned that such as his family is performances in rock music. Nominated for2 Oscars
super rich! approx 2 hours+15 Minute Interval Cert 12 approx 2 hours15 minutes +15 Min Interval Cert12A
PONED
rch NO
W POST
3rd Ma
Roy Lancaster VMH A Plantsman’s Travels
Wednesday 6 March, 7.30pm
at Chichester Hall, Witley
The renowned plantsman, author and broadcaster will give his interesting
and entertaining talk recounting tales of plant collecting expeditions
around the world. Not to be missed! Book tickets now!
Members £5, non-members £10. Information: 01428 683281
www.witleygardening.org/events/roy-lancaster-a-plantsmans-travels
We were treated to a fascinating glimpse of Japan in our February event, Helen wearing a
beautiful kimono to add an oriental touch to her presentation of photos of a recent Japanese
holiday. On Thursday 7 March, we’re delighted that Bishop Michael Baughen, retired
bishop, composer and writer, will be coming to talk to us. Do join us to learn a bit about his
lifetime in the church as well as his passion for trains, travel and more. We’ll meet at 8pm in Busbridge Church
Centre, with drinks and nibbles before Michael starts his talk. Our 2019 programme will be available at the
meeting, if you don’t already have one. We very much look forward to seeing you! All are very welcome!
We’ll continue collecting subscriptions at this meeting. Membership remains £18 per year, and £5 per evening
for non-members. Cheques to Nexus, please. Subscriptions & fees cover speakers’ gifts, drinks,nibbles, tea/
coffee afterwards, donations to charities, for 2019 Hydon Hill Cheshire Home. For more information:
phone Janet Harvey on 423264 or Kate Kaye on 415296 or find us on www.bhcgodalming.org/groups
Hambledon Parish Magazine, March 2019, Page 8
Meetings in Church & Village Hall
Sunday 3 March, Thursday 7 March,
9am – A meeting 8pm – Village public meeting
at St Peter’s Church at Hambledon Village Hall
Both meetings led by The Rev Simon Taylor
supported by Church Treasurer Andrew Dunn
You may be aware that the vicar’s property at Mervil Bottom has
recently been restored, in readiness for a new minister at St Peter's.
Before we appoint, we want to consider in partnership with all in
the village, how a minister living in the parish and village, can best
contribute to Hambledon community life.
Come and hear more and have your say. We seek your input,
and look forward to meeting you and hearing from you!
Hearing & Sight
Mobile Bus
Friday 8 March 2 - 4pm
At the Old Rectory,
Busbridge Church
Complete with wheelchair access lift, the bus has an array of
specialist equipment to help those with any hearing or sight
impairment to maintain their independence.
Visitors can try the equipment to see if it is likely to benefit them before they purchase.
Expert staff demonstrate and supply the specialist equipment and give advice. So whether you
would like to investigate equipment that can help you hold a conversation on the telephone or you need
help in moderating the volume at which you have to watch the TV — help is at hand. Smaller items such
as Braille playing cards and talking watches are also available to try out.
Saturday 9 March at Clock Barn Hall The next Marriage Preparation Course
We are excited that 12 couples are signed up for this one-day course. The team need offers of help with either
the welcome or as a support couple looking after the couples on the day. We also need volunteers who can help
prepare and serve the buffet lunch and/or clean up afterwards anytime between 11.30am-2:30pm.
If you’d like to help, please contact Debbie Jones on 07712 893318.
Hambledon Parish Magazine, March 2019 Page 9
Talented local artist Steve Kinder’s
Second Art Workshop,
Saturday 9 March, 10am-
10am-1pm.
Following the success of the first one, £30 pp, all materials
included – all abilities welcome. There’s a few spaces available.
If you’d like to book a place, email stephenkinderart@gmail.com
Clandon Park House Tuesday 12 March 2-4pm,
Busbridge Old Rectory (£3 each on day)
Clandon Park House nr Guildford, commissioned by
Lord Onslow in the early 18th century, was built by
Italian, Swiss, and English craftsmen.
Conceived to impress, it was
designed for entertaining high
society, including royalty.
But in April 2015 fire caused
significant damage, leaving the house a shell. In response, the
National Trust launched its largest project in a generation.
Join us when one of the National Trust’s speakers talks
about Clandon House, the fire, its future, the salvage phase, the
important discoveries made about its structure, the construction
surveys, the decision to restore this local and national treasure,
and the design competition to find an architect to bring Clandon
Park back to life. Includes tea and cake.
Dan Eley concert 13 March,7pm
March,
W hat could be more inspiring than to witness
the talented music students of Godalming
College perform to raise funds to help disadvan-
taged youngsters in Waverley obtain the chal-
lenges and job training that will give them a better
chance in life?
Please come and support this fifth annual
benefit concert that The Dan Eley Foundation is
sponsoring, at Godalming United Church, at Bridge
Street Godalming.
Every concert has been a sell-out so please
book early. Tickets are £10 each (half-price for
students) and are available at :
www.ticketsource.co.uk/godalmingcollegemusic
CLOCKHOUSE CINEMA PRESENTS:
FRIDAY 15 March, at Chapel Lane Milford GU8 5EZ
Doors open 6.45pm Film starts 7.30pm Licensed Bar
Tickets £5 from The Clockhouse, 01483 420668 or
email: manager@clockhouse.org.uk Charity 1059045
Amidst a marital crisis a High Court Judge must
rule whether a teen with cancer should receive a
life saving blood transfusion despite objections
from his family on religious grounds.
Hambledon Parish Magazine, March 2019, Page 10Coffee Morning
Tuesday 19 March, 11am in the Church Room
and the third Tuesday each month (and Hearing Aid Clinic)
All welcome – do come
For more information and help with transport call Jacqui Rook 01428 684390
Mike Codd © West Sussex County Council
Hambledon Parish Magazine, March 2019 Page 11Chiddingfold Race Night
Chiddingfold Village Hall, Saturday 23 March, 7- 11 pm
In aid of Macmillan, Friends of Chiddingfold Surgery Fire Appeal
& The International Purple Community Fund
Buy tickets early for the Early Bird Price *
Dress style: Vintage 40s to 80s
Great fun evening with Supper
(vegetarian option on request)
Licensed Bar • Race Cards • & Tote
* Tickets £15
from Treacles, Chiddingfold or from Jenny Mason, 01428 684747
Hambledon Parish Magazine, March 2019, Page 12What’s happening at ...
Spring is gearing up after a successful Table-Top Sale and the AGM, The Village Hall
with the real highlight on 5 April – all about Hambledon...
T here’s always
something good
happening here, and
The Village Hall Table-top sale on 2 February.
Anthea Edwards writes: We would like to thank
everyone who attended the table Top sale, espe-
this year it gets even cially the stall holders. The weather over the previ-
more so. ous few days unfortunately may have deterred
After the Table-Top some people from attending but there was still a
Sale, there’s an inter- queue when the doors opened, and we sold lots of
active performance. tea and home made cake and made £337.90 for the
village hall fund.
See below !
We will be running this event again in the future.
Hambledon Village Hall Management Committee Presents:
Friday, 5 April at 7pm for 7.30, Hambledon Village Hall
An hilarious night of comedy, poetry & creation of a mini musical all about Hambledon!
Performed by poet, comedian & broadcaster Ian McMillan and composer & musician Luke Carver Goss
To create the musical, we need you there!
– Don’t worry, any audience participation
will be voluntary!
Ian McMillan (the Bard of Barnsley!),
who has his own show every Friday night
on Radio 3, The Verb, celebrating
spoken and written word. His many
television and radio appearances include:
* Being castaway on Desert Island Discs
* Have I Got News for You
* Countryfile
* Pointless Celebrities
* Pick of the Week
* Regular appearances on
many Radio 4 programmes
and BBC breakfast.
Luke Carver Goss is an accordionist and
composer. His music includes commissions
for symphony orchestras, rock bands,
musicals and theatres.
Tickets will go quickly as they have a big following. But as the show will largely be …
about Hambledon…. we’re hoping to fill the hall with as many Hambledonians as possible.
Tickets £12.50 available at the village shop
The performance begins at 7.30. Doors and bar open from 7pm
Hambledon Parish Magazine, March 2019 Page 13Crumbs – what a send-
send-off!
It must have been the best-kept secret of the year. Well over half the HVS professionals and volunteers threw
a surprise party for Gill on 15 February – and surprise it was: she thought she was just going out for a drink
before Jon diverted her into the Village Hall to celebrate her outstanding three years as Shop Manager.
The decorators were out in force – as were the cooks
Before supper – recovering from the shock
It’s starting
to get fun
The Cake by
Crumby reminding
us all of Gill’s
tools of the trade
Hambledon Parish Magazine, March 2019, Page 14Hambledon Village Shop needs you!
Hambledon Village Shop is a busy, community owned
village store, café and delicatessen run and staffed by
an enthusiastic team of professionals and volunteers.
www.hambledonsurrey.co.uk/?page_id=5225
The Management Committee are looking for one or more individuals to take on the full-time
job of managing the shop, possibly as a job share.
Ideally you will have retail and/or voluntary sector experience. You will take responsibility
– supported by the assistant manager – for staffing, managing staff and volunteers, stock
purchase and control, health and safety generally and particularly food safety. All within a
tight budget. You will be a computer literate, hands-on person with good communication
skills and attention to detail. You will also be able to delegate, to contribute ideas and to
engage with the Management Committee and the village community. You will be willing to
work some weekends. Salary negotiable depending on skills and experience.
Start date as soon as possible.
Enquiries to the Management Committee Chair: nicholasmassey@hotmail.com
As an ex-professional retailer, Martin was perfectly placed to
express his admiration of the professionalism which Gill brought And Gill’s verdict on the evening?
to the Manager’s job, before presenting her with the gift: “It’s the nicest thing that’s ever happened to me!”
theatre vouchers which should see her through the
2019 Chichester Festival Theatre season.
Hambledon Parish Magazine, March 2019 Page 15Pull your chairs out ….
For the observant … there is a prayer for every morsel bitten, chewed and swallowed;
every fiesta, festival, party, occasion, belief, relationship. We are pretty boring on the foody,
celebrating, gathering thing. So Bron says “pull your chairs out – don’t push them in”.
T here are some things that don’t change much.
I find the smell of a dish, or the way a certain
spice is crushed, or just a look at the way
something has been put on a plate, can pull me back to
another place and time. I love those memories that
Also as a sauce, with fish or white meats … who
knew! (Plant the seeds this month and watch. It’s a
fast grower and will ready for BBQ time.)
However it will be going into the bath bed. A
bunch of bergamot tied under the running tap of the
seem so far away, yet you can hold on to them; and bath is heavenly – the aroma good enough to promote
then, in a single taste or hint of a smell, be chaperoned the best night’s sleep.
back to a beautiful moment.
The Jewish, Asian, Spanish, Italian, French
obsession with food is written into their theologies and
cultures. Cook, entertain, drink, love, laugh. Embrace
the charm of early spring. Enjoy being warm and
cosy. Tuck into the comfort of the fireside and the
smells coming from the kitchen.
There will be a few furrowed brows when I
mention last year’s late snow days and we all know
anything can happen: nothing is guaranteed but the
seasons. Spring will come, changing the stark empti-
ness of bare branches, beautiful in the mist, glistening, I am often asked for dinner party ideas – what to
frosty and sylphlike in sequins against the winter sky cook, easy, simple and impressive. My fail-safe menu
and winter light. Buds are taking a peek, blossom is for this season, so easy. Hardly any cooking on the
getting ready, the cherry flowers are getting set, then night. Sautéed green beans as a starter, can be eaten
the plum: go. The garden will spring in to race mode. with fingers. Such a fun, sociable starter, with a fresh
Healthy eating and the health-giving joy of crisp ice-cold Sancerre, some French bread to mop up
traditional cooking and enjoying the food we eat with the butter sauce. Blanch the beans for literally three
friends and family will keep us healthier and happier minutes, drop in to some ice-cold water and leave until
than any stressed-out faddy diet. Excess of anything you are ready to sauté. As people pull the chairs out
isn’t healthy; but I have never heard of anyone dying … sauté in plenty of butter. Serve on simple plates
of excess flavour. Apples, honey, roasting al- with a generous grind of salt and pepper.
monds, baking figs, cinnamon, nutmeg, cumin, orange Next, Coq au Vin. Make the day before or that
zest, sesame oil, vanilla – smells oozing from the aga morning. Don’t bother sealing the chicken: tradition-
at the moment … Not all the sweetest, tempting, for- ally the blood should seep into the sauce, making it
bidden fruit on the tree is bad. My son made a veggie darker and richer in colour and flavour. Don’t use a
paella last week: he said it was awful. “Well, you just nasty cheap wine (this dish is all about the wine) but a
didn’t put enough flavour in.” Use all the veg you good burgundy or claret. Sauté some lardons in your
want, we really can do without the meat; but you have chosen casserole dish until the juices flow and they
to add spices and herbs and more spices and herbs. begin to change colour; leave to cool. Then add every-
I have decided on growing herbs in the garden, thing. The chicken (I use thighs – impossible to over-
not veg – well, maybe a few. I am going to get more cook: we all hate chewy chicken) the shallots, mush-
use from the herbs. A herby bath bed. An aromather- rooms, garlic, bouquet garni, salt and pepper. Cover
apy bed. A white herb bed. A cooky bed. And one just with your wine. Leave in the fridge overnight. Cook
to encourage the bees and butterflies. Imagine the the casserole from room temperature, slowly in the
smells from that lot. A couple of my favourite herbs, oven, with a lid: you need the alcohol to cook out, the
bergamot and borage: both loved by the bees. The flavour has already seeped into the chicken. Cook for
flowers of the borage are so very beautiful. Not just a couple of hours before your guests arrive. Serve
because they look great in the gin or Pimms. The detail with new potatoes and a green salad.
of the furry little plant go on and on. Blue white pur- Dessert has been cheese & biscuits or tart Tatin.
ple? It’s a comforting bush of hope and courage. The Again so easy to make. Apples in a pan with a pastry
leaves and flowers can be used in salads, in yoghurt, in hat. How can it go wrong? A very provincial menu
savoury dishes: it has a slight cucumber taste. Hence and bomb-proof. You will be able to sit and sip with
its use in Pimms. Flamboyant bergamot, or bee balm, your guests: some sawdust on the floor and you could
can be used in salads and summer savoury dishes. be in a French bistro. A votre santé.
Hambledon Parish Magazine, March 2019, Page 16Shrove Tuesday… Pancake Day - yay!
Shrove Tuesday… Pancake Day yay... mardi gras... fat day ... All you can eat… eat the chocolate,
pour the syrup, crunch the sugar, smart with the lemon juice, add the fruit… we will be serving the
pancakes on the Village Shop terrace from 11am. For lunch maybe; we finish at 2pm. Cheers, Bron
panicked woman back in 1445 in Olney, Buckingham-
shire. She was making pancakes when she heard the
shriving bell calling her to confession. Afraid she’d be
late, she ran to the church in a panic, still in her apron,
and still holding the pan.
Flipping pancakes is also centuries old. A poem
from Pasquil’s Palin in 1619 runs:
And every man and maide doe take their turne,
B ut what do Shrove Tuesday, and Ash
Wednesday mean and where do they come
from? Ever wonder why we eat pancakes just
before Lent?
And tosse their Pancakes up for feare they burne
Some people have noted that the ingredients for
pancakes can be used to
highlight four significant
5 March – Shrove Tuesday: Pancake Day
things about this time of
The tradition dates back to Anglo-Saxon times, when
year: eggs stand for crea-
Christians spent Lent in repentance and severe fasting.
tion, flour is the staff of
So on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, the church
life, salt keeps things
bell would summon them to confession, where they
wholesome, and milk
would be ‘shriven’, or absolved from their sins, which
stands for purity.
gives us Shrove Tuesday. At home, they would then
eat up their last eggs and fat, and making a pancake Shrove Tuesday is
was the easiest way to do this. For the next 47 days, always 47 days before
they pretty well starved themselves. Easter Sunday and falls
Pancakes feature in cookery books as far back between 3rd February
as 1439, and today’s pancake races are to remember a and 9th March.
6 March – Ash Wednesday: mourning our sins The actual custom of ‘ashing’ was abolished at
Lent begins with Ash Wednesday. But why ‘Ash’ the Reformation, though the old name for the day re-
Wednesday? The reason has to do with getting things mained. Today, in the Church of England, receiving
right between you and God, and the tradition goes the mark of ashes on one’s forehead is optional.
right back to the Old Testament. Certainly the mark of ashes on the forehead re-
The Israelites often sinned. When they finally minds people of their mortality: “Remember that you
came to their senses, and saw their evil ways as God are dust and to dust you will return...” (Genesis 3:19).
saw them, they could do nothing but repent in sorrow. The late medieval custom was to burn the branches
They mourned for the damage and evil they had done. used on Palm Sunday in the previous year in order to
As part of this repentance, they covered their create the ashes for today.
heads with ashes. For the Israelites, putting ashes on
your head, and even rending your clothes, was an
outward sign of their heart-felt repentance and
acknowledgement of sin. (See Genesis 18:27;
2 Samuel 13:19; Job 2:8, 30:19; Isaiah 58:5;
Jeremiah 6:26; Jonah 3:6).
In the very early Christian Church, the yearly
‘class’ of penitents had ashes sprinkled over them at
the beginning of Lent. They were turning to God for
the first time, and mourning their sins. But soon many
other Christians wanted to take part in the custom, and
to do so at the very start of Lent. They heeded Joel’s
call to ‘rend your hearts and not your garments’ (Joel
2:12-19). Ash Wednesday became known as either the
‘beginning of the fast’ or ‘the day of the ashes’.
Hambledon Parish Magazine, March 2019 Page 17The new season beckons
The 2019 AGM report will have to wait till the next issue of the Magazine;
but in the meantime there are quite a few dates for your diary, whether you’re
young or not so young, as Vice-President Arthur Blackman reports.
T he AGM was held on Tuesday 26 February –
just after this issue went to print; but there will
be a full report in the April issue including
details of those who were elected Club captains, Club
officers and welfare officers for this summer’s season.
Saturday mornings 10-12: from 13 April to 6 July for
the under-9s and the under-11s;
Friday evenings 6.30– 8pm: (subject to confirmation),
from 19 April to 12 July for the under-12s.
Signing-on and practice will start on the Cricket
Starting with the Senior fixtures, the first game Green on the above start dates and matches will be
will be a League match on Sunday 14 April, at home played on either Friday evenings or Sunday mornings.
against Abinger CC – weather permitting. At present There will be team managers for each age group.
the ground is wet and we will need some good weather BUT we need more help and support to run the Junior
between now and then to help it dry out. teams for 2019. If you think you can help in any way,
With a view to getting you all back into shape please email Caroline Tristem, tristem@btinternet.com
there will be weekly HCC evening indoor net sessions or telephone Alexander Wood on 07753 832323.
during March. Please call Sion Griffiths on 07775 Training for helpers will be given via the Club coaches
516448 if you like to join in or if you need more and managers, operating und SCC guidance.
details. The 100 Club will run again this year and we
There will be a full programme for Juniors, op- hope that all those who have previously taken part in
erating under England and Wales Cricket Board Club the four monthly draws will once again participate.
Mark Policy with Surrey County Council to pro- So, the new season will soon be with us. It’s
mote child welfare and protection. Dates for Colts’ your opportunity to come and play some real village
coaching sessions have been agreed and are as follows: cricket – for Hambledon.
News from The Clockhouse
It just gets better! The latest addition to a huge variety of activities
and facilities is an expanded Snack Bar – come and give it a try.
T he Snack Bar, which is open from 9.30 to 3.15,
now sells sandwiches and small snacks as well
as delicious home made scones and drinks –
and all at a low cost. Please do pop in and sample for
yourselves.
lunch, please order by 11am on that day. Two courses
cost £6 and the price of the Roast and Toast lunch is
£8; but lighter meals are also available at a lower cost.
Please check our website for the menu.
Some of our members are attending a Thursday
We would love to see more of you at The morning Art Group (pictured) . We showed our gallery
Clockhouse. You no longer need to be a member: at the Friends Day afternoon tea in February and are
you can just drop in and have a cup of tea or coffee or planning to make a calendar to sell at The Clockhouse
come with a friend for lunch. We are open five days a Christmas Fair.
week, Monday to Friday.
Apart from snacking, there is plenty going on
including bridge on Thursday afternoons and pilates
on Tuesday afternoons. The hairdresser, podiatrist,
beautician and reflexologist are all by appointment.
Check our website – www.clockhouse.org.uk – for the
full range of activities and fund-raising events.
There will be several themed lunches in March
including St David’s Day on the 1st, Roast and Toast
on the 13th and St Patrick’s Day on the 18th. All the
meals are freshly prepared so, if you wish to book a
Hambledon Parish Magazine, March 2019, Page 18Fighting on all fronts
Hambledon find themselves in 4th position in the league with a game
in hand (win, and they go top). They have also booked a place in the
Cyril West Cup Quarter Final.
A nd as if that weren't enough, they have a small
chance of making the league cup quarter final
– if they beat Windlesham in their final group
game – thanks to a thumping 4-0 home win against
All of which means there are eight games to go
in the league for the Dons in their quest for silverware.
It has been a mixed start to 2019 for the A team.
Two wins and two losses in the league have forced a
Keens Park last time out. re-evaluation of priorities in terms of domestic targets.
January saw the Dons win three out of four The gap to runaway Division 4 leaders Hindhead is
games, all in cup competitions. The one and only almost insurmountable, requiring a huge collapse in
defeat came at the hands of Chiddingfold who claimed form; and the Dons now have a real battle on their
top spot in the Cyril West group stages. hands with Surrey Dynamos and Athletic for
Kuda Kamoto is a player in fine form, having promotion. More recently, it was disappointment in
scored all four goals in the side’s last outing. But he’s the Cup with an away defeat to local rivals Milford
not the only one: the whole team, and especially the and Witley. This all but ends the A’s pursuit of silver-
back five of Josh Hill, Luke Winter (C), Ryan Luff, ware for the season.
Jay Kotecha and Allen Tillyard, enjoyed a clean sheet After a comprehensive victory away to Guildford
in the same game, having defended well throughout. Park at the start of January, the A’s missed an oppor-
Up next is a tough away trip to Knaphill in the tunity to close the gap at the top, down 1-0 at home to
quarter final of the Cyril West Cup, before finishing Hindhead despite playing the majority of the second
the league cup group stages against Windlesham. half against 10 men. The team did show extraordinary
Hambledon Reserves also had a January to character the following week, bouncing back and ham-
remember with four wins out of four. These included mering Shalford 7-0. Ollie Jones turned in a Man of
a thumping cup the Match performance to assist goals for Alex Mus-
quarter final win sel, Lewis Gunner, Darren Martin and Max Dodson.
(5-0) over title ri- Unfortunately the A’s run of inconsistent
vals Shottermill at performances continued into the following week.
Badger Park, with Elijah Taylor’s stoppage time goal wasn’t enough to
January player of avoid yet another narrow defeat, this time away to
the month Mike promotion hopefuls Surrey Dynamos. And the Dons
Cheesman helping suffered back-to-back competitive defeats for the first
himself to four time this season, getting knocked out last week-end to
goals. Milford and Witley in the league cup. The deadlock
Hambledon was broken midway through the second half from the
have booked a visit penalty spot but, despite hitting the woodwork twice,
to Knaphill for the Hambledon couldn’t force the tie to penalties.
semi final clash. In With solely league matters to attend to and with
the cup competition a favourable set of fixtures between now and the end
they have made the of the season, the A’s will hope to rekindle some of
final in the last four their early season form and to end the campaign on a
seasons while their high. Hambledon Vets have now lost one game in
fine league form eight and stand second in their league, having won
Mike Cheesman,Reserves team
has seen them rise against previously unbeaten Ropley 3-1. Harman (1)
– Player of th e Month
to the top of the and Cook (2) were the scorers, in one of the Vets’ best
table. Hard-fought wins over bottom teams Chobham performances in the last three seasons against a very
and Woking were followed up by an excellent away physical side.
win over Windlesham on a tricky pitch, with Dave They followed this up by knocking out Division
Tye’s goal the pick of the bunch in the 6-3 score. 1 Headley 6-5 on penalties after drawing 2-all (Cook
The snow put paid to a trip to Chiddingfold but and Evans) at Badger Park to put them into the
this did not halt the team’s momentum the following County Cup quarter finals for the first time in history.
time out with a very good 3-1 win away to local rivals The Dons look strong at the back, forceful in midfield
Milford who were bolstered by several first team and pacey up top. Exciting times ahead!
players. Next up are Cranleigh who were the last We hope to welcome you to Badger Park as the
team to beat Hambledon and appear to be their main boys look to finish the season strongly.
title rivals. Come on You Dons !
Hambledon Parish Magazine, March 2019 Page 19Hambledon Ladies’ Breakfast 9 February
When I’m 64
Annie Sneller gave an inspiring talk at last Hambledon Ladies Breakfast.
Here is some of what she had to say, reports Jacqueline Hindley
D o you ever look in the mirror and wonder
what that strange person who vaguely resem-
bles your mother is doing staring back at you?
I remember the Beatles song When I’m 64!
The first verse says:
felt as if they never would, alongside other moments
that were full of joy. And maybe some bits aren’t fin-
ished yet.
One of the realisations that has come to me is the
dawning awareness that choices are limited – my
‘When I get older losing my hair, many years from now. bucket list has to take into account my age – I always
Will you still be sending me a Valentine, birthday fancied learning to ride a horse but slightly dodgy
greetings, a bottle of wine. bones probably means that is not realistic now. Having
If I'd been out till quarter to three would you lock suffered two sudden bereavements in the last two years
the door. I am very aware of my own and other’s mortality. So –
Will you still need me, will you still feed me when where does that leave us. Utterly depressed? No!! Not
I'm sixty-four’. John Lennon/Paul McCartney at all! It leaves us motivated to grasp life – make the
That line, ‘will you still need me’ is a telling one. most of what we can do, not what we can’t do, thank-
We all ‘need to be needed’. I’m not sure I always ing God for the wisdom of hindsight. Maybe some of
thought so when my children called, ‘Mummy’ inces- us have got something deep in our hearts that we are
santly wanting an instant response. But maybe it is still waiting for. A piece of the jigsaw puzzle that has
now one of our fears – we will be no longer relevant – not appeared yet. An unfulfilled dream – a long
no longer needed….. awaited promise. Let’s not give up hope. Lets keep
I came across something written by the Dalai waiting for the morning.
Lama: ‘Being “needed” does not entail selfish Two of our daughters work with refugees – many
pride or unhealthy attachment to the worldly esteem of whom are trapped in unjust circumstances and
of others. Rather, it consists of a natural human hopeless situations. And yet, they both sincerely be-
hunger to serve our fellow men and women. As the lieve that they have a message of hope to share with
13th-century Buddhist sages taught, “If one lights a the people they work with – a message that says they
fire for others, it will also brighten one’s own way.”’ are precious and valued – intimately known by God.
Virtually all the world’s major religions teach May we have the eyes to see the new beginnings,
that diligent work in the service of others is our high- the surprises and the joys whatever age we are. We
est nature and thus lies at the centre of a happy life. face the future with the awareness of the coming to-
Jesus taught that the two greatest commandments gether of the jigsaw so far. Beauty showing through
were to love God and to love one another – literally some of the hard bits. Eyes open for the present. Hope
love your neighbour as yourself. So – are we still for the future. Never past our sell by date.
needed? When I’m 64 – just the beginning of the next
Some of us may be much needed – in the middle stage of the adventure!
of busy working lives, caring responsibilities – some The next Ladies Breakfast is on Saturday 11 May
of us are the ‘sandwich generation’, looking after the at 8.30 at the West Surrey Golf Club. Much looking
elderly and the younger generation at the same time. forward to welcoming you there...
It has its moments – not long ago I had my eld-
erly mother in the front seat of the car and some wrig-
gly grandchildren in the back. As I delivered the
grandchildren to their door my grandson said:
“Granny. Great Granny’s skin is all sort of
folded up. Why doesn’t it fit properly?”
It’s different for each one of us as life evolves
and our circumstances change.
Others of us may be in a different season right
now. Maybe very different to the one we dreamed of.
Not sure where we are needed any more.
For me, being 64 is a bit like being part of a giant
jigsaw puzzle – it’s not clear how much more is to be
done but I can look back and see some really difficult
bits that have actually all come together even when it
Hambledon Parish Magazine, March 2019, Page 20Kiwi Noeline joins 80s club downunder
The now retired Kiwi-Karers, Noeline and sister Lyn, don’t do things by halves; they’ve cared
for many different homes, animals and people in Hambledon, making many friends on the way, and
hiked over all known local paths; and now Noeline writes the story of her 80th back in NZ
T hank you so much for the lovely birthday greetings.
I really appreciate all the kind thoughts and wishes.
Yes, I did have a very happy birthday with family
and friends (writes Noeline).
On Saturday morning we met at Auckland
Pier 3 to board the ferry for a 2 hour boat trip to the Upper
reaches of the Auckland harbour. Numerous fishermen,
kayakers, paddle boarders, jet skiers and yachties were also
enjoying the sea
and sun. (1 in 3
Auckland
households own
a boat).
At Riverhead As I write, it is 32ºC and we have just had
we disembarked our daily refreshing swim in the sea at Cockle Bay.
to enjoy a deli- If it gets too hot we will blame Australia!
cious lunch at It’s hard to believe we’ve been home for
the waterside two months. With Christmas, New Year and birth-
restaurant. This day celebrations over it’s now down to SERIOUS!
also included house-hunting!! Will let you know what, when,
the best carrot where and how, when it happens. Once again
cake EVER! thank you for the lovely birthday messages. We
with candles miss you and send our HOT wishes.
(not 80) made by daughter-in-law Dawn. Love, Noeline
Birthdays are not one-day affairs in N.Z. Next morning
we enjoyed a leisurely, “full on”, delicious brunch outside
3 Sisters
on the deck, then in the afternoon went to the Civic theatre
in central Auckland to see the musical Aladdin – A
spectacular show enjoyed by all.
Noeline’s daughter Lesandre and son Leighton
Auckland
harbour
bridge
Downtown Auckland
Au kland
Hambledon Parish Magazine, March 2019 Page 21A sudden southern storm
Snow-storms don’t usually come from the south west; but, as
Earthworm recently discovered, there’s a first time for everything.
W inter did come at the end of January, with
some force, says Earthworm, still snug
under his large heap of composted leaves,
now rotting nicely and giving off a fair degree of
Earthworm has been intrigued by the reports and
photographs of the “snow rollers” in Wiltshire. It
seems this is an excessively rare phenomenon, like
huge rolls of those round hay bales and not a footprint
warmth – warmth much needed when thermometers in sight! It takes, we are told, a number of conditions
plummeted to minus seven. Even a sprinkling of snow all coming together at the same time: the heavy fresh
too. snow fall; a temperature just above freezing so that
Mid -January is known as the feast time of Saint the snow is beginning to melt; and a brisk wind to
Hilary, a fourth century Bishop of Poitiers who has the whip up the snow to start the tumble and roll.
unenviable reputation of celebrating his feast with the Earthworm would have loved to have shot over to
coldest period of winters. So it has been for many Marlborough to see for himself had the roads not been
years since, for example, as in 1205 when the Thames rather treacherous; but felt it would have been a bit
iced over and the frost that year continued in to March. like “twitchers” racing miles to see a rare bird!
Earthworm very much hopes that history will not
repeat itself, even though, on average, St Hilary’s day
has been the coldest day of the year. Perhaps, he
muses, we have now had the worst of winter, though
happily quite short-lived.
We are told that this snow-storm came unusually
from the south west and while, at the time of writing, it
had caused only fairly short term disruption – as snow
in England always does – we should spare a thought
for those in North America where the wind chill
lowered temperatures to -40ºC. The phrase wind chill
was interestingly only coined in 1939 by the American
explorer Paul Siple who was able to alert explorers to
the dangers of frostbite and hypothermia even when
the thermometer did not seem dangerously low.
The winter of 1649 was another one of The Wiltshire snow roller, as seen and photographed
exceptional cold and, as Earthworm – and, of course, by Brian Bayliss
his readers all know – this was the year of the
execution of Charles the First. The King was afraid Earthworm thinks that spring may not be too far
that the public seeing him shivering would think it was away with snow drops coming to their best, the early
from fear so he requested a shirt. “I fear not death” he “wild’ pale mauve crocus opening in the occasional
was said to have declared. It was in that same year burst of sunshine, a shy primrose or two to be seen on
that the Thames again froze over. a sheltered bank and the shoots of daffodils emerging.
31 March: Mothering Sunday
There is an old Jewish saying: God could not be everywhere, and therefore He made mothers. Mother
Church, Mother Earth, Mother of the Gods – our human mothers – they have all been part of the celebration
of ‘Mothering Sunday’, as the fourth Sunday in Lent is known. It is celebrated in the UK since about 1700.
In Roman times, great festivals were held every Spring to honour Cybele, Mother of all the Gods. Other
pagan festivals in honour of Mother Earth were also celebrated. With the arrival of Christianity, the festival
became one honouring Mother Church.
During the Middle Ages, young people apprenticed to craftsmen or working as ‘live-in’ servants were
allowed only one holiday a year on which to visit their families, which is how ‘Mothering Sunday’ got its name.
This special day became a day of family rejoicing, and the Lenten fast was broken. In some places the
day was called Simnel Day, because of the sweet cakes called simnel cakes traditionally eaten on that day.
In recent years the holiday has changed and in many ways now resembles the American Mothers’ Day, with
families going out to Sunday lunch and generally making a fuss of their mother on the day.
Hambledon Parish Magazine, March 2019, Page 22You can also read
