Editorial

In 1959 the Rural Society was inaugurated, so as most of you will know by now, 2009 has been a year where we have celebrated our ‘Golden Anniversary’ – and with some considerable effect. In fact, some of the ideas that came forward have been so well received that there have been requests for them to be continued into the new year. One of which was the planting of the Christmas tree at The Hare crossroads – the first time the village has had its own tree. With a blessing by the Vicar of All Saints Church, Michael Gentry, the choir and all the children turning up with their tree decorations and candles, it was a very special evening in the village calendar.

Another that was well received were the hanging baskets on the Langton Road. Although they looked beautiful, keeping them watered was a major job for the Committee and if this exercise is to be repeated next year, we would hope to start an ‘adopt a basket’ scheme where members of the public would take on the responsibility for looking after them. The last ‘new initiative’ to have received a warm (on a chilly September evening!) reception was the Summer Party. Although the number of entrants to the Talent Competition were not as high as was hoped for, the evening went very well with excellent local entertainers, side shows and a fabulous firework display as the finale.

With all of this going on, there was the Quiz Night in February which was a sell-out as usual . There was a very special ‘Golden Ball’ in April which was a huge success – so much so that many didn’t want to go home and they had to be ejected from the hall well after closing time!  My grateful thanks go to the team who put the 50th anniversary celebrations together – Ed Langridge, Sue Cailes, Lyn Dollimore and Emma Jackson. And, of course there was the July Fete which broke all records. I can’t let this point pass without mentioning the huge contribution Irene Smith and her merry band of helpers contribute towards the running of the event. It is almost a full time commitment and one which we respect enormously. Our AGM on May 5th was very well attended (even though it clashed with a very important football match!) and Harry Collins, the Crown Jeweller gave a wonderful talk which literally had the audience drooling!

As many of you know, the fete is responsible for providing most of the funds which are used for good causes in the village. This year so far we have contributed towards the building of a disabled access into the church, provided three new benches in the recreation ground and opposite the village green, but we are always looking for new ideas. If you are involved with any youth organisation or social group who are looking for funding, please get in touch with me on 862270 or by email at Trevor@oxlea.org

As you can see, it has been a very busy year but our remit is to do what we can, as a committee, to look after the best interests of the village. To that end, we are always looking for more Committee Members – preferably some of the more younger residents, so please get in touch– your Village needs you!

Trevor Parker
Chairman