Jay Ashworth

Thursday 8th May 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE Day), when the nation will unite to remember the end of the Second World War in Europe. Around the country, events will be taking place to pay tribute to those involved in that conflict, as well as reminding us to pray and work for peace in our communities and in the world. 

Locally there will be an Act of Commemoration as part of the Rogation Service, the Sunday beforehand.  Also, both Ashburnham and Penhurst churches will be open on Thursday 8th May, for those who would wish to remember and reflect on this poignant and significant anniversary – cards with specially prepared prayers commemorating VE Day will also be available for those who wish to use them.

A group of villagers involved in organising Country Fair and Cricket Bat Raffle met with Sophie, representing St Michael’s Hospice. Becky Parsons handed over a cheque for £2850 which added to the money raised by St Michael’s on their stall at the Country Fair brought the total to  £3008.10! A fantastic achievement from our community and a fitting tribute in memory of Bob Parsons.

Over 100 people joined the Remembrance service, led by Revd Gary Cregeen, at the War Memorial on Sunday morning. Several local companies, groups and individuals laid wreaths and £163 was raised for the Royal British Legion.

Join Revd Gary as he leads our community Remembrance Service and wreath laying at the War Memorial, Sunday 10th November at 10.50am, followed by refreshments.

This will be held on Friday 8th November at the Sports Pavilion Site. The fire will be lit at 7pm followed by the fireworks. Refreshments – sausage buns and hot drinks – will be served afterwards. Tickets £6 adults £3 children, cash on the gate please.

Congratulations to Mark Hague whose winning ticket was drawn on 29th September. A total of £605 was raised for St Michael’s Hospice in memory of Robert Parsons. Thanks go to all those who bought tickets and to Tim Keeley for the generous cricket bat donation.

Huge thanks to everyone involved in another successful event. A fantastic £4,400 was raised to be split equally between St Michael’s Hospice and community projects at the sports field site. Go to the Country Fair page for some more photographs and updates.

Come and have a go at Short Mat Bowls from 7pm on January 26th at the Village Hall.

The calendar pages for December have been updated with all the changes and additions we know about so do refer to it and where it differs to the Parish Magazine diary this online calendar is the accurate one! Let me (Jay) know if you spot any errors or omissions – ashworthjay1@gmail.com

Please note that the usual dates for Short Mat Bowls in December have been cancelled, it will now take place on Friday 15th December at the usual time of 2pm – 4pm in the Village Hall. Back to 2nd and 4th Fridays in January