From : Philip Carter

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We had wonderful weather for our annual gathering on Bank Holiday Monday. Actually, it was too hot (max 28) for some people, who sensibly went into the church, which was pleasantly cool. There they had some delicious cream tea with scones and strawberry jam. This was organised by Valerie Durnford and run very efficiently by Heather Goodwin and Lorraine McCallum. Alternatively, you could have tea outside in the churchyard, where there were lots of tents, gazebos, benches and a big new marquee.

There was a great tombola, run very smoothly by Mary O’Brien and Rachel Hull. They also organised “Name the rabbit”. Nearby, there was a silent auction for 4 quality new soft toys. In the top corner of the churchyard in the shade, were Steve and Linda Davies, running their excellent “Plants and Produce” stall. Next to them was a new event, the Hankerton Hound Show, organised by Jacqui Erskine-Crum. There were 3 categories…., Golden Oldie won by Zephyr with Elfin, Waggiest Tail won by Lola with Coco and Most like Owner won by Edie with Bobbin.The judge was Steve Davies, who did it perfectly with good humour and there were lots of rosettes.

Near the big marquee was a long row of brightly coloured socks with different items hidden inside, organised by Sarah Wyman for the young. There was also a table tennis table, kindly lent by John Thorne and a Bouncy Castle in the Carter’s garden. By their gate were Valerie Durnford and Rev Bob Molton, managing very well the hot dogs on the BBQ and soft drinks, under the hawthorn tree. Georgina Carter went round with ice creams for the young (under 80!).

In the “ridge and furrow” field next to the churchyard we had the Welly Wanging competition, run by Douglas Johnston. It was won for the second year running by James Tjolle, who threw it over 30 metres. Amazing. Also, in the field was Sarah Wyman, sending rockets up to the sky. Lastly, in the big field, there was a Tug of War competition, which was a lot of fun and one team won 2-1, partly because they were going slightly downhill twice, having changed ends, after their first win.

Thank you to all who helped in any way, setting up, running a stall or spending a bit of money. The proceeds will be shared between the church and the community account. Philip Carter, FFD2025