May 2016 Tester 58

April - May 2016 Price 40p JESUS AND RUGBY Is The Gospel like a Contact Sport ?

Having noted the recent earth constituted a huge risk - The Apostle Paul writes suggestion that tackling be and He knew it! Indeed we can “There is now no removed from school Rugby, I even say that it was not so condemnation for those who was about to start writing my much a risk as a certainty - are in Christ Jesus, …… for I “Front Cover” on the subject of from the foundation of His am convinced that neither “Jesus and Rugby”, when I world, God knew that His Son death nor life, neither angels came across an article written would be rejected by His own nor demons, neither the by Richard Powney – and he creation. present nor the future, nor any makes the point better than I powers, neither height nor ever could ! It needs to be depth, nor anything else in all read in its entirety and, as it is creation, will be able to too long for the Cover, you can separate us from the love of find it inside this magazine. God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Richard refers to the resurrection of Jesus “which enabled the disciples to Let us thank our Heavenly become bold and courageous Father that He is not a “risk in their witness to Jesus”. averse” God!

It is indeed the resurrection But the crucifixion, followed Richard’s article can be found that we have celebrated this by the resurrection, on Page 3. Easter, for it is the uniquely demonstrates that we do not Christian festival of death have a “risk averse” God, but being defeated by the power a loving heavenly Father who John Roberts of God. Of course, there is a is prepared to take the risk of risk in the Rugby tackle, as crucifixion for the sake of there is a risk every time we saving His people and giving take a car on the road or cross us the wonderful eternal hope it as a pedestrian. God’s of resurrection, as the provision in sending His Son Christian shares with Christ to live amongst us on this the assurance of eternal life.

Copy Deadline for June / July issue Monday 9 May 2016 TODAY April / May 2016

THE EXE VALLEY CHILDREN’S EDITORIAL MISSION COMMUNITY GROUPS wo important reminders in this issue. Calverleigh, Cruwys Morchard, EXE VALLEY TODDLERS T Loxbeare, Oakford, Rackenford, You will have noticed the first one - which Stoodleigh, Templeton, (For under 5ives) is the annual delivery of the brown Washfield and Withleigh Friday mornings during Term-time voluntary Subscription envelopes. You are at Calverleigh Village Hall under no obligation to make a donation www.exevalleychurches.org 10 am - 12 noon but anything you can offer, will be much appreciated. The details of how to pay, Toys, snacks, songs and more !! are on the envelopes. Thank you. GENERAL ADMINISTRATION For more information contact Paul and Elizabeth Iliff Liz Heywood on 01884 881583 The second thing to say, is a huge “Thank 6 Southfield Way you” to all our Advertisers. It is time for Tiverton EX16 5AJ. You can also find us on Facebook f their Annual Renewal and we do hope that Tel: (01884) 253473 they will all be staying with us again. We CHURCHWARDEN CONTACT DETAILS are in the fortunate position of having [email protected] Calverleigh some new Advertisers on a waiting list. NOT FRIDAYS PLEASE !! Aubrey Goldsworthy 01884 255248 We don’t like turning people away, so we Jackie Herniman 01884 255814 may have to try to squeeze a few more in [email protected] next time. We would be interested to NON STIPENDIARY MINISTER Cruwys Morchard know your thoughts on the ratio of space Rev’d John Roberts Diana Vincent 01363 860227 allocated to advertising. E-mail your Loxbeare comments please. Thank you, again. East Sidborough, Loxbeare, Ron Tidball 01884 881362 Tiverton EX16 8DA. [email protected] Tel: (01884) 256302 Oakford Jenny and Geoff Mike and Wendy Boynton 01398 351383 [email protected] [email protected] Rackenford READER Herbert Smith 01884 881375 MOVING ON PART 7 Mrs Anna Hansford Mary Cann 01884 881696 [email protected] second round of adverts in Church The Paddock, Stoodleigh ATimes has come and gone, and it came 2 Kensington Court, Margaret Cuningham 01398 351252 as no great surprise that, once again, [email protected] Washfield,Tiverton,EX16 9QU there were no applicants. Clearly, our new John Fewings 01398 351328 Rector has not yet responded, or has not [email protected] Tel: (01884) 253463 yet seen the advertisement! At the time of [email protected] Templeton writing (8 March) our situation is being Jan Heptinstall 01884 255399 discussed at the Bishop’s Staff Meeting, Jan.Heptinstall@BTOpenworld com MAGAZINE EDITORS and a subsequent meeting arranged (on Washfield 11 March) between Bishop Sarah, Jenny & Geoff Parnell Jeanne Jones 01884 254306 [email protected] Archdeacon Christopher and our Keepers Cottage, churchwardens to consider the way Withleigh Lower Washfield, Brenda Tucker 01884 252431 forward. Hopefully there will be more to report next time, but do please continue Tiverton, EX16 9PF e-mail: [email protected] Paul Iliff 01884 253473 to pray for all involved. One consolation is Tel: (01884) 254402 [email protected] that the appointment of our new Rector is [email protected]

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2 TODAY April / May 2016

two months closer than it was two Of course Jesus’ message was not months ago, even if we do not yet know Was it always safe? Probably not. only about counting the cost. The who he or she is! Did I get hurt? Regularly. reason we can take the risk and make Was it worth it? Definitely. that step of faith into the unknown is Mention was made last time of the because of the security that Jesus ‘Wings for Worship’ course which was This week I read an article suggesting brings. He promises to always be with being considered to help and that us by his Spirit. He continually speaks encourage our current and prospective . I was shocked: take tackling out of how our kind and loving Father in lay leaders. It currently looks likely that of rugby and you cease to have the heaven will always provide for all our this will take place on Wednesday same sport. To me this epitomises our needs. evenings during June (venue yet to be culture’ desire to sanitise life. Would it arranged). If you feel called to join our not make more sense to train kids to The unshakeable foundation of happy band, then please have a word tackle properly? This got me thinking steadfast love revealed through Jesus’ with Anna, or with your about our culture in general – we have death and resurrection enabled the churchwarden(s). become, to put it mildly, quite risk disciples to become bold and averse. And there is a danger that this courageous in their witness to Jesus. Our Ascension Day Service, this year, culture of risk aversion is infiltrating our Yet this still presents some challenging will take place at Rackenford on portrayal of the message of Jesus. questions to us all: what risk is Jesus Thursday 5 May at 7.30pm. Do try to asking us to take? What area of our life join us on what, in the UK, has become At times when reading the gospels I has become completely sanitised? the poor relation of feast days. In many find Jesus an uncomfortable character. These days my involvement with rugby other countries it is a very much more I think having dinner with Jesus may is full of risk aversion – I watch from a prominent festival. well have been full of little glances comfy sofa in a warm flat. The main across the table expressing the danger is a pillow thrown at me from Our April Group Service will be at thought: "I can’ believe he just said my wife when Scotland lose to England, Calverleigh on Sunday 24, and in May that!" Yet this highlights an important again. will be at Cruwys Morchard on Sunday point – Jesus’ message was full of 22, both Services starting at 10.30am. challenge and contained quite a bit of My prayer is that my life following Jesus risk. would become less about risk aversion and more focused on loving and Paul Iliff In Luke 14:25-34 we find Jesus laying obedient trust. out his own version of a disclaimer form. He wants the disciples to know Submitted by John Roberts Article by Richard Powney: that following him will come with a cost: “whoever does not bear his own as detailed on Front Cover. cross and come after me cannot be my disciple” Jesus is asking the disciples TIVERTON STREET PASTORS love playing sport. – are you willing to take the risk? I ruce & Kathy Govett have been part A particular favourite sport of mine I wonder, have we allowed some of our Bof the Street Pastors’ team in growing up was rugby. The reasons for language around following Jesus to Tiverton since it was set up in March this are multi-faceted, but a definite become akin to taking the tackling out 2010. They live in Nomansland and are positive is that it was great fun of rugby? If we take away the cost, if we regular members of the Exe Valley smashing into other players. There was limit the risk, are we walking on the Central congregation and our Mission always great satisfaction tackling a kid narrow path Jesus spoke about? Community Services. They also help who was bigger than you.

3 TODAY April / May 2016

with the organisation of our monthly late at night, why do you see it as your Prayer Breakfasts. We asked Bruce & responsibility to try to help them. Kathy about their experiences as Street Pastors. What are Street pastors, and how did it What do the prayer team do? start in Tiverton?

I have heard that all Street Pastors do is give out flip flop sandals to girls who can hardly stand up for drink - is that a fair criticism? Do you have any training to become a Street Pastor?

What is your relationship with the police - do they approve of what you Is it a clearly definite Christian activity? are doing?

What are you trying to achieve - is it an evangelistic activity?

I know that sometimes you are not in bed until 4.30am on a Sunday morning, How would you answer someone who and sometimes later, yet you are ready might object along the lines “If young Tell us about the team - how many to help set up EVC in Templeton people want to act in such an street pastors are there in Tiverton and Village Hall by 10.30am the next day. irresponsible way, fuelled by alcohol how often are you “on duty” How do you manage it?

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4 TODAY April / May 2016

like to help, I will be very pleased to encourage homeless swarms to settle hear from you. on your land but conversely, the birds hate sudden and loud noises. What do you consider the most All volunteers over 16 need a DBS important part of your Street Pastor check. Please do not be put off by this, Our house martins came back last year ministry? it is a simple process which I can do and adopted an old nest, after I had with you and lasts for 5 years. made some minor repairs. They further reduced the size of the entrance, so More details in the next magazine. much so that it was a miracle the adults were able to get in and out. If you can help in any way, or if you Quite how they know the structure is would like more information, please strong enough to support a growing ring Cindy on 01363 866621. family is a mystery. Their elegant flight Holiday club to and from the nest was very similar to other more permanent residents - the bats that live in the roof space nearby. Predictably, at least two NATURE NOTES independent families of great tits will also disappear behind the fascias of the eaves, so any planned painting can t this time of year our thoughts turn be a halting effort. Atowards garden and home improvements or spring cleaning. We may be interrupted by Nature’ visitors I do hope the grey wagtails will be and have our ‘live and let live’ more sensible this year. Notoriously all philosophy challenged. wagtails leave a lot to be desired over their choice of location for their nests OLIDAY CLUB this year will take at ground level. Suffice it to say they I do love a bit of pruning, and gardening place in Calverleigh Village Hall. It chose to build at the side of the grid by H textbooks demand that hedges taper at will run daily from Tuesday to Friday 2 – our back door and I spent a worrying the top to avoid possible damage if 5 August, at 11.15 am to 3.30 pm, for time ensuring the grid was kept clear, subjected to heavy snowfall. I was children aged 5-11. The theme is so that the discharge from the amazed to discover the number of last SPACE ACADEMY and it is based on drainpipe did not wash away the nest year’ nests that I did not realise were the Biblical book of Daniel, as well as and eggs and all. exploring Space. The Holiday Club there. Service and Fun Day will be on Sunday If I am ever disappointed by my DIY 7 August and it will also be in We regularly monitor our chimney and attempts, I can always gain solace Calverleigh Hall. are careful to have fires at various from observing the house-building of intervals between March and July. squirrels and buzzards. Their energy is In order for us to run Holiday Club, we Experience has taught us that enviable, but the kindest adjective need plenty of helpers and this can be apparently dormant chimneys are describing their methods and results, for as little or as much time as you are attractive to scouting bees and is ‘erratic’ able to give. I would like to hear from jackdaws. Curiously jackdaws seem anyone who is able to help during the somewhat impervious to fumes whilst week. There is no age limit for helping. bees, though slow to admit defeat, will Thomas More Teenagers - if you have been to Holiday not tolerate smoke. The ancient method Club (or even if you haven’t) and would of banging pots and pans was used to

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5 TODAY April / May 2016

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF drivers and committee who generously Our best wishes and prayers go out to THE EXE VALLEY MARKET AND give their time to keep this service all who are unwell at this time. running – and most of all to thank our passengers for their loyal support. If Our Mothering Sunday Service was he Bus Committee AGM is on you would like to join us, either as a held on 6 March and was led by Julie TThursday 19 May at 7.30pm in The passenger or a driver, please ring Goldsworthy. Everyone present Stoodleigh Inn. Everyone is very either Colin or Ann received a posy of flowers and a card welcome to attend but please telephone for their mothers, aunties, friends or the Secretary, Ann Roberts, on 01884 neighbours. There were also potted 254501 - so we can make sure we have plants to take home that were enough sandwiches! PARISH ROUND-UP thoughtfully provided by the girls of 5th Tiverton Guides. It was a part of a Using volunteer drivers, it runs each Centenary Challenge Badge where 100 Tuesday and Friday morning from plants were to be shared around the Oakford to Tiverton. To travel on this CALVERLEIGH community. service, please telephone Colin Radford on 01884 881351 for more Church News: Community News: details and to reserve your seat. n January, George Webber, the son of At the end of last year, Kath and Stuart IAndrew & Cheryl, was welcomed into Leigh (landlords of the Rose & Crown) On Thursdays it runs from Oakford to the church family, when he was ran a charity night including a raffle, South Molton or Barnstaple (alternate baptised by Rev'd Jane Wilson. Also in and raised an amazing £545 for weeks) via Roachill and Knowstone. January, Leo Charlie Ronald Harris was Children's Hospice South West (CHSW). The journey to Barnstaple stops at the born. A son for Leanne & Miles; brother As a part of the evening, they donated car park at Moortown Cross enabling to Freya; grandson for Alison & Gary £2 from each two-course meal ordered passengers from other parishes to pick Smith and Great-grandson for Pat that evening. Exe Valley Friends of up the bus there. Ring John Smith on Rowe. Our very best wishes go to out CHSW provided entertainment, 01398 341764 to book your seat. you all. performing a variety of Carols and Concessionary Bus Passes can be Christmas songs. Paula Garrett, fund- used. It was with great sadness that we heard raiser for Little Bridge House in of the passing of Karen Cosgrove, Barnstaple, said: “It really was a super It is also available for private hire, ring daughter of Gerald & Joan Blackmore. evening, thanks to Kath and Stuart’s Ann Roberts on 01884 254501 for Karen had been worshipping with us at hospitality and generosity. It's all about details. St. Mary's when she was able. Our putting the fun into fund-raising, that’s prayers are with them and all of Karen's what CHSW is all about. Making the most of short and precious lives.” We also run regular trips on the 1st family. Our thoughts and prayers are Wednesday of each month and we do also with the family and friends of John Coming Up: sometimes have spare seats - more Gold, whose funeral service took place information from Judith Govier on here in February. The Church AGM will be held on 01884 256325. Tuesday 12 April 2016 at 7.30pm in the We also think of the family and friends Church. All parishioners are welcome to come along. All details are also on our website of Ivan Webber, who was called to http://www.exevalleymarketbus.btck.co Heaven now just over ten years ago. .uk Ivan's friendship, his good works as We are holding a Spring Clean Day in Churchwarden and the way he Church on Saturday 16 April starting at 9am. If you are able to spare some time We would like to thank the volunteer organised us, will never be forgotten by the community he loved. God Bless Him. throughout the morning, please bring a

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6 TODAY April / May 2016 PARISH ROUND-UP New Creation News bucket and cloth – after all, many April 2016 hands make light work! Tea, Coffee and biscuits will be provided.

Celebrate St George’s Day in a April - what a beautiful month! Spring is such a very special time of year with traditional way. On Saturday 23 April the wonder of new growth in leaves, flowers, young animals and birds. A there will be a Barn Dance with music walk in the fresh air lifts our spirits, so let us join together with the psalmists provided by 'Lucy Lastic' in Calverleigh to praise and thank the Lord for this wonderful season and His goodness to Village Hall. This will be a joint fund us all. raising event for Hospiscare and Calverleigh Church, which is being This month we hope to concentrate on spreading God’s word through Posters, organised by Christine Webber and DVDs and CDs. DVDs that feature miracles, testimonies, and true stories as Anne Moore. Tickets are just £8.00 per well as films – ‘God’ Not Dead’ ‘Escape’(you can’ run from God); and ‘War person including supper! Get your Room’(Prayer is a powerful weapon) to name just a few. Some are for tickets from Christine or Anne. children. We also have a selection of lovely new posters to brighten your walls or frame as pictures and some new CDs including the Spring Harvest Our Annual Day of Prayer will take 2016 edition. place on Saturday 14 May from 9am – 9pm. If you would like to join in and take a half hour time slot of your choice, and pray wherever you feel most comfortable, please contact Aubrey Goldsworthy or Jackie Herniman for Toilet Twinning more information. A list will be available We have been ‘twinned’ with Latrine no. 30269 in Rubaya ,Kabale District, on the font in the weeks leading up to Uganda for over a year now and we have been able to send £100 out to them the event. to provide more latrines. We have almost reached our next £50 which should be sent out in April. Thank you to everyone who has put a contribution into A Duck Race is being organised by our little pot in the toilet. God bless you. Geoff and Lorna Thomas. It is in aid of Church funds and will take place on A’Rocha UK Saturday 28 May. Ducks can be You might like to visit the website of this Christian Environmental purchased from Geoff and Lorna for £2 Organization to find out what work they are doing. each. The ducks will be set off from You can order this new book from us. Lurley Bridge and end opposite Palmer Hayes. Refreshments will be served at Christian thinkers have backed a crackdown on consumer culture from A Calverleigh Village Hall afterwards. Rocha UK's Dr Ruth Valerio. They've endorsed her new book – to be launched on Advanced Notice: Our Annual Open Air 17 March at London’ Kahaila Cafe Service will be held on Sunday 12 June at 3pm. May God bless you all. Church Mowing Rota New Creation Christian Book and Coffee Shop 4 / 16 Apr: Mr. A Goldsworthy 58, Bampton Street, Tiverton, EX16 6AH 18 / 30 Apr: Mr. C Durnan www.newcreationtiverton.org.uk 01884 255416 2 / 14 May: Mr. K Hayes [email protected] [email protected] 16 / 28 May: The Webber Family

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PARISH ROUND-UP

Church Cleaning Rota 12noon. in aid of Cancer Research. To Parish, to join, meeting at the Cruwys 21 Mar / 2 Apr: Mrs. M Herniman include raffle, bring and buy, cake stall Arms on the 1st Wednesday of each 4 / 16 Apr: Mrs. M Furneaux and a children’s area. month, at 8pm. Clare Penney is the 18 / 30 Apr: Mrs. J Goldsworthy co-ordinator and contact for the group, 2 / 14 May: Mrs. A Webber is to held in the Parish email [email protected]. There 16 / 28 May: Miss S Goldsworthy Hall on Friday 22 April at 12noon for will also be an email group. It is 30 May / 11 Jun: Mrs. M Webber 12.30pm. Hot two-course lunch, with planned to have a topic for each month, raffle, do come. To register please ring in time with the seasons, as well as Flower Rota 01363 866864, stating if you have any general discussion about problems, 27 Mar / 3 Apr: Mrs. L. Thomas dietary requirements and/or need questions and ideas. April’s topic is 10 / 17 Apr: Mrs. D Hopper transport. Do leave a message on the seeding, plants and soil. It is hoped 24 / 30 Apr: Mrs. J Evans answer phone. that visits to gardens and guest 8 / 15 May: Mrs. R Tapp speakers will follow. 22 / 29 May: Mrs. M Furneaux 12.00 – 3.00pm. With local music. continues in the Parish Hall every Want to help? If you feel a desire to help Thursday 10am. with any of the events, with the mowing, cleaning or flowers, do get in touch. did extremely well at the Exe Valley Group Drama Competition held in Janu- If you are unable to do the cleaning and Have we missed something? If there ary. They came second with their pro- flowers please will you let Cindy know: is anything that you think we should duction of "My Best Trifle Dish" with Tel. 01363 866621. have mentioned, or you have anything Layla Hill winning best actress. On the for the next magazine, please send same day, Sam Edworthy won Senior After decorating for special services, them to Dave Burton by calling 07817 Member of the Year and Luke Park- please would you remove from church 851856 / 01884 561499 or by emailing: house won Junior Member of the Year. your pots, baskets and other flower [email protected]. They both went onto the County Round arranging accessories that you have Get the latest at: with Sam coming fifth and Luke fourth. used? If you would like to join our www.exevalleychurches.org/calverleigh. cleaning and flower rota please let The Club has held two successful Cindy know. We would value your help. Bingos in January and February and are holding another one on Saturday 30 28 March / 4 April - Sue and Pauline CRUWYS July. They are also hosting a Tractor Guscott Run on Sunday 3 July - starting and 11 / 18 April - Ann Gillbard & Judith MORCHARD finishing at Cruwys Morchard Parish Taylor Hall. Do please come along to see all 25 April / 2 May - Cindy Trick the different tractors! 9 / 16 May - Diana Vincent and Val Randerson will take place 23 / 30 May - Marian Kingdom Service was full of in the Parish Hall on Saturday 13 6 / 13 June - Sarah Cruwys children and flowers. August. Please take a look at our schedule, as we have many new sadly our church yard classes this year and would like to April - Guy Cruwys dustbins are no longer going to be encourage new exhibitors, to ensure May - Les Tosdevin emptied by MDDC. Please can you all we have another great show. The June - The Guscotts take your rubbish home, I am afraid this buckets are now available for children, July - The Berrys must include dead flowers, cellophane, under 16, who would like to grow their paper, oasis, etc. own potato. Any questions please contact Pauline Guscott 01363866754 Church AGM Wednesday 16 March we still have had no or email. [email protected] 7.30pm in the Church applicants. Senior’s Lunch 22 April, 12 noon for Cruwys Morchard Gardening Group 12.30pm in the Parish Hall A group has been formed, for anybody Church Fete Saturday 9 July 12.00- is to be held in the Parish Hall and everybody, of any ability, from any 3.00pm on Saturday 19 March, from 10am-

8 TODAY April / May 2016

PARISH ROUND-UP Pennymoor Congregational Church. The Mothering Sunday Service was held Loxbeare Ladies: In February Sunday Services at 4.30pm followed in the Village Hall at 10.30am taken by Loxbeare Ladies went to see 'Oliver' in by refreshments John and preceded by a full English the New Hall which everyone enjoyed, 1st Sun Family service Rev, R Green Breakfast - which was cooked and and in March there was a Skittles 2nd Sun Communion Mr. O Mears served by the men. Thank you to all who Evening at The Rose & Crown. 3rd Sun Way Village (2.30) helped in any way. 4 April: A Bluebell Walk is planned with 4th Sun Praise & Prayer lunch, but if the bluebells aren't out an The Exe Valley Woman's Bible Study 5th Sun Worship and tea alternative will be decided. Meet at Group continues to meet on the 2nd & Calverleigh car park @ 10am. Contact 4th Tuesday afternoons 2-4pm at Sue on 01884 259496. Churchill House, Christine Weatherley’s 2 May: a walk from Withypool to Tarr home. All Ladies welcome. Contact Steps, again with lunch out. Meet at Marion on 01884 256302. Loxbeare Church at 10am. Monday 30 May from 11.am to lunch 6 June: BBQ at Steve & Sue's at 7pm. The A.P.C.M will be held on 3 April, after 6.30pm Service in the Church and there 1st Saturdays 11 am-12.30pm with craft is a PCC Meeting in the Village Hall on sales etc. 19 April at 7.30. OAKFORD

Our love and sympathy are with Steve & ow that Winter has passed, we Sue Troake and family on the death of Nhope for a good Spring and Congratulations to Belinda and Steve's brother. Thoughts and prayers Summer. The daffodils and primroses Christopher Sadek on the birth of their are with all who are unwell, undergoing are now in full bloom and hopefully daughter, Ottilie June. Tenth grandchild treatment and tests, or waiting for there will still be plenty to decorate the for Guy and Sarah Cruwys. operations. church for Easter. We look forward to Congratulations to Annabelle Hibbert . We hope you will It is with great sadness that we who has recently passed her driving test. be able to join us for this special day. announce the passing of Tracey Lake, Also to Withleigh Young Farmers Drama Coffee and biscuits and Easter eggs for wife of Peter and mother of George and Group, who won the group round and the children afterwards. Bertie. We send our commiserations then went on to come 4th in the Country and prayers to her whole family. round. Well done to all participants including Graham and Lucy Radford. We Raffle, welcome the new people into Loxbeare plant and cake stall. Come and enjoy a LOXBEARE Barton Flat and hope you will soon feel cream tea from 2.30pm until 4pm. We at home in Loxbeare. hope you can come and support this. All proceeds to church funds. t the time of writing we are seeing A ‘soup and roll’ lunch was held in Asigns of Spring, with many plants February to raise money to help feed the and shrubs beginning to flower and the undernourished children in Uganda. A Celebrating promise of warmer drier days to look donation of £100 was raised and sent to ‘God’s gift of Summer’ If anyone would forward to! With Easter here we reflect the Samaritans Purse towards this like a favourite hymn, reading or poem on Jesus' death and celebrate his cause. Thank you to all involved. please let Mike, Wendy or Mary know. resurrection with Services on Good If you would like to read, that would be Friday and Easter Sunday. Dates for your Diary: great. We look forward to seeing you. 1 April: There will be a Beetle Drive in Our monthly Family Service on 14 the Village Hall in aid of Village Hall We send our best wishes to Audrey February was led by Ron & Linda, on the Funds at 7 pm. Costain, who is in hospital after her fall theme of God's love to us and how 9 April: There will be Cream Teas in the and hip operation. We hope you will special we are to him. There were a Village Hall between 3-5pm. soon be on the mend and home again. good number of adults and children. Our 5 April: Village Hall committee meeting. service on 13 March, will be led by the We send our condolences to Richard 14 May: A Safari Supper is being Revd. Jane Wilson. The April service to Stevens and family. Richard’s sister, organised. Anyone willing to host be taken by Anna Hansford, and Ryan & Sylvie, was buried on 29 February at starters or main courses please contact Georgina Doeller will be taking the May Crocombe, where they grew up. Richard Vickery on 01884 881234 and service. for further details. S L PASSMORE STUART HAGLEY PLASTERER * FREE ESTIMATES GENERAL BUILDING OVER 10 YEARS EXPERIENCE and Maintenance ALL TYPES OF INDOOR For a Quote PLASTERING, Contact Stuart on 01884 881487 PLASTER-BOARDING or 07926 291 442 AND DAMP-PROOFING Rackenford, Tiverton e-mail: [email protected] Call Steve on 07584284256/01884 881695 email: [email protected]

9 TODAY April / May 2016

EXE VALLEY MISSION COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES

Exe Valley Central Services Praying and Worshipping Together Each Sunday in Templeton Village Hall Saturday Prayer Breakfasts 9 April and 14 May 9am in Loxbeare Hall 11am (Unless otherwise stated) Prayer and Bible Study Alternate Wednesdays at Church Cottage, Stoodleigh, 7.30pm from 13 April Exe Valley Women’s Bible Study 1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2-4pm Churchill House, Loxbeare Ascension Day Service Thursday 5 May 7.30pm Rackenford

Parish Groups Walk the Talk - Withleigh Home Group Alternate Mondays at 8pm. 01884 253473 Loxbeare Prayer and Praise Meeting 3rd Tuesday in month at 7.30pm 01884 881362 for details

OAKFORD RACKENFORD STOODLEIGH

3 April 3 April 3 April 9.30 am Holy Communion 11 am Holy Communion 11 am Family Service with Baptism 10 April 10 April 9.30 am Family Service 10 April 11 am Holy Communion 9.30 am Family Service 17 April 17 April 9.30 am Holy Communion 17 April 6.30 pm Evensong 9.30 am Songs of Praise 24 April 24 April 24 April See Calverleigh See Calverleigh See Calverleigh

1 May 1 May 1 May 9.30 am Family Service 9.30 am Holy Communion 11 am Family Service 5 May (Thursday) 8 May 8 May 7.30 pm Ascension Day Service 9.30 am Family Service 11 am Holy Communion 8 May by Extension 15 May 11 am Holy Communion 9.30 am Family Service 15 May 15 May 6.30 pm Evensong 22 May 9.30 am Morning Worship See Cruwys Morchard 22 May 22 May See Cruwys Morchard 29 May See Cruwys Morchard 29 May 5.30 pm Songs of Praise 29 May No Service 11 am Morning Prayer

10 TODAY April / May 2016

CALVERLEIGH CRUWYS MORCHARD LOXBEARE

3 April 3 April 3 April 6.30 pm Evening Worship 6.30 pm Evening Prayer 6.30 pm Evening Praise

10 April 10 April 10 April 9.30 am Holy Communion 11 am Holy Communion 11 am Family Service by Extension 17 April 17 April 11.15 am Family Service 17 April 9.30 am Family Communion with Baptism 11 am Family Service with Baptism 24 April 24 April See Calverleigh 10.30 am Group Service 24 April See Calverleigh 1 May 1 May 1 May 6.30 pm Evening Praise No Service 6.30 pm Evening Prayer 8 May 8 May 8 May 11 am Family Service 9.30 am Holy Communion 11 am Holy Communion 15 May 15 May 15 May 9.30 am Family Communion 11.15 am Family Service 11 am Family Service 22 May 22 May 22 May See Cruwys Morchard See Cruwys Morchard 10.30 am Group Service 29 May 29 May 29 May 6.30 pm Evening Worship No Service

TEMPLETON WASHFIELD WITHLEIGH

3 April 3 April 3 April 11 am Family Service 6 pm Evening Prayer 11 am Informal Service

10 April 10 April 10 April No Service 11 am Holy Communion 11 am Service of the Word

17 April 17 April 17 April 9.30am Morning Service 11 am Family Service 9.30 am Holy Communion with Holy Communion 24 April by Extension 24 April See Calverleigh 24 April See Calverleigh See Calverleigh 1 May 1 May 1 May 9.30 am Holy Communion 11 am Family Service 11 am Family Service 8 May 8 May 8 May 11 am Morning Prayer No Service 9.30 am Holy Communion 15 May 15 May by Extension 11 am Family Service 9.30am Morning Service 15 May with Holy Communion 22 May 11 am Service of the Word See Cruwys Morchard 22 May 22 May See Cruwys Morchard 29 May See Cruwys Morchard No Service 29 May 29 May 10.30 am Hymns, Readings No Service and Prayers

11 TODAY April / May 2016 PARISH ROUND-UP Village Events: life over many years. Donations in one of their daughters. She died in Village Hall Murder Mystery Friday memory of Ken will be divided between January after a battle with cancer for 20 27 May: Save the date. Look out for The Alzheimers Society and years. posters. Rackenford Churchyard Fund. Our There will also be a deepest sympathy to Linda, Mike and A few people in Rackenford will still which will be advertised later. all the family. Rev Christopher Rowley remember the “Beele” family who used officiated. to live at The Old Police House. Sadly Moorland Club: we have heard of the death of Tracey, Thursday April 14 . Annual Sadly a week later on 18 January we who was one of the three children. She General Meeting and Entertainment. gathered again, for the funeral service died aged 52 years after a short illness. of Joan Arscott. Once again, the We send our deepest sympathy to her Village Fete: Look church was full of family and friends, husband Peter and children George out for more details. who had come to pay their respects to and Peter who live in Nomansland and a lady who had lived in our community also to Don and Gwen, Pauline and for many of her 94 years. She was laid Roland, Nikki and Jonathan, at this very to rest with her late husband Jack and difficult time. RACKENFORD beside her daughter Gwendoline. Donations in her memory will be divided On a happier note, our belated he following was not available for the between Rackenford Churchyard Fund congratulations to Annette Read who last issue, however, on 25 T and the Acute Stroke Unit at The Royal has celebrated her 80th birthday. We November Megan Isaac enjoyed an Devon and Exeter Hospital. Our hope you enjoyed your special day. amazing day playing her saxophone prayers and deepest sympathy to her Also congratulations to Graham and with the Devon Youth Jazz Orchestra at family and friends. Ruth Fennel on the birth of your the Music for Youth Proms held at the granddaughter. Lovely news and we Royal Albert Hall. The Devon Youth Jazz Our very best wishes to all those we hope all is well. Orchestra were one of only two bands have heard about who are poorly or in selected to play at the prestigious the process of recovering, Sylvia It was a joy for us to have Bishop Sarah, venue, after auditioning at the Music for Muchmore, Paula Hallet, Ann Freeman, Youth festival in Birmingham last July. the Bishop of Crediton, to take our Holy Gordon Shaddock, Charlotte West and Communion Service on 21 February After a fun filled day rehearsing, a Jakki Livsey-Van-Dorst. Also fabulous evening performance was and we feel she enjoyed being remembering our friends Muriel entertained by the young children enjoyed by a full house, and was truly Blinman, Joan Clark, Peter Reynolds, an occasion to remember for Megan whose ages range from 4 to 7 years. Dave Collins and anyone who is lonely They played the Bell Plates and not and her very proud family watching. or depressed. Well done from us all Megan. forgetting our own choir who we always enjoy listening to. Afterwards we Our deepest sympathy to Suzanna and enjoyed chatting to Sarah and others of It was a pleasure for us to have Rev Glenn Hookins and family, on the death the large congregation while having Christopher Rowley for an 11 am Holy of Suzanna’s father Dennis Mildon, and refreshments. A very special service. Communion Service, which was most also to the family and friends of Norma enjoyable. Sellman who has died. Our thoughts A few dates for your diaries. On are with you all at this difficult time. Saturday 16 April we have a Coffee The funeral service and internment of Morning and stalls etc in our Church Ken Blackford took place on 11 January Some of you may have noticed the from 10 am to 12 noon and the following when the church was full of family and beautiful wreath that was on the grave day, Sunday 17 at 9.30 am, a ‘Songs of friends, gathering to pay their respects of the late Archie and Alice Snell. This Praise’ for our Queen’s birthday. to him. Until his ill health, Ken enjoyed was left by the family of the late so many aspects of country and village Margaret Smith (nee Snell ) who was QUOIT-AT-CROSS, STOODLEIGH

Phone 01884 34506 Gold Award Bed & Breakfast. Mon-Thu 8 am-5 pm En-suite rooms, and Fri 7 am-1 pm Ideal for family and friends, [email protected] Open all year, All welcome. Linda Hill, 01398 351280 e-mail: [email protected] www.quoit-at-cross.co.uk

12 TODAY April / May 2016

PARISH ROUND-UP Let’s make this a very special Service Last but not least, we all enjoyed a We were saddened to learn of John and we would appreciate your help and wonderful Mothering Sunday Service, Drew's death and send our sympathies support if you can. with the young children playing their to all his family. We remember with Bell Plates and towards the end of the thanks his very generous annual supply Thursday 5 May at 7.30pm we have a Service handing out beautiful bunches of vegetables for the church Harvest Group Service for Ascension Day at our of flowers to all the mums and ladies in Thanksgiving. His funeral took place in church. the congregation. Many thanks to St. Margaret's Church on Thursday 21 Herbert, Mary and to all who helped in January. It will not be long before it is time to get any way. Refreshments were enjoyed your walking boots on again for our after the service. We had the privilege of welcoming the Sponsored Walk on Saturday 14 May. Archdeacon, Ven. Christopher Futcher, Details later, so look out for posters We wish you all a very happy Easter. on Sunday 14 February to lead our and sponsor forms or speak to Liz service of Holy Communion. He has Paxton on 881331. taken services in a number of the Exe Valley parishes during the time we have Bingo enthusiasts will be pleased to STOODLEIGH been without a Rector and his hear that our Bingos begin again for commitment has helped to ease some church funds on 14 April and 12 May his year’s very early Easter may anxious minds. We send our thanks. 7.30 pm in Rackenford Club. Many Thave gone by before you read this. thanks to them. The date of this triumphant Christian St. Margaret's Church PCC would like festival has always been mysterious – to thank an anonymous donor for their and for those who respect mysteries, it We are looking for new members to join generous gifts which have been is none the worse for that. Easter Day our PCC and would love to have you gratefully received. The Annual falls on the first Sunday after the first with us. If you are interested, please Parochial Church Meeting is on full moon after the Spring Equinox, and contact Herbert Smith 881375 or Mary Tuesday 29 March, 2.30pm, at Church can be as early as 22 March or as late Cann 881696. Cottage. as 25 April. Moves are now afoot to agree a fixed date for Easter, which A warm welcome to the Johnson family The Rackenford Church organ, which would be more convenient but might who have moved to Ridgeway, Court dates from 1870, has been found to be not please traditionalists, wise men and Gardens. in urgent need of renovation, if it is to other moon-watchers. continue to be used. This has been Dates to remember made possible by the generous gift of This year the full moon in question Sun 3 Apr: Family Service 11am St £5,000 from the Rackenford is/was on 23 March, with Good Friday Margaret's Community Shop, with the shortfall on 25 March (also Lady Day, which Sun 24 Apr: Group Service 10.30am, being met from the Parochial Church celebrates the Annunciation and was Calverleigh Council reserve funds and a gift from a until recently an important Quarter Sun 1 May: Family Service 11am St donor. The work will be undertaken this Day,) and Easter Day on 27 March. Margaret's summer, subject to Diocesan approval. Wed 11 May: Coffee Morning The Old Stable 10.30am-12pm, cake stall and If you are reading this early enough , it Jane Phillips is stepping down as a raffle is worth mentioning that this year’s PCC Secretary after serving the Parish Sun 22 May: Group Service 10.30am Agape Meal and Service on Maundy for many years. The Rackenford Cruwys Morchard Thursday is in Withleigh Village Hall Church PCC would like to extend their Sat 13 Aug: Stoodleigh Dog Show at 7.30pm; the Easter Day Service at sincere thanks to her for all her hard Mon 29 Aug: Ploughman's Lunch, St Margaret’s, Stoodleigh, is Holy work. Champles Communion at 11am.

RACKENFORD COMMUNITY SHOP

Opening hours 8 am – midday Mon-Fri 3 pm – 6 pm Mon, Tue, Thur, Fri 9 am – midday Saturdays 10 am – 1 pm Sundays (Bank Holidays 10 - 12) Cash Machine Post Office Service Tuesday & Thursday mornings. A friendly and traditional village shop solely run by volunteers providing a service to the community. Tel: 01884 881740 Email: [email protected]

13 TODAY April / May 2016 PARISH ROUND-UP

At the Parish Hall community, keep up to date at Our annual Easter Garden Service is on Jennifer Rowlandson presented https://parish.middevon.gov.uk/stoodleigh/ Good Friday, 25 March at 11.00am. another great slide show in February. This time on the South West Coast Path. Children’s Hospice South West Our Easter Sunday Service is on 27 Her amazing collection of photographs would like to say a big thank you to March, at the new time of 11.00am. kept the audience fascinated as she John and Sheila Davis for hosting a This will be Morning Service followed by described her 630-mile walking coffee morning at Barns Cottage on 6 a shortened Holy Communion. We hope journey around the south west February, and to all those who attended to see you at both these services. peninsula, from Poole to Minehead. The despite the awful weather and made it evening was a delight and it raised such a success. A total of £287.50 was Our Church’s AGM will be held in the £235, which was shared between the raised for the charity. Village Hall at 7.00pm on Wednesday Church and the Parish Hall. 30 March. There will be tea or coffee Stoodleigh 100 Club prizewinners for and biscuits served prior to the meeting In early March, the skittles were dusted January – 1 Clare Torrance, 2 Phyllis Hill, and we do hope you will come and find off for an evening of hot and 3 Angela Hill, 4 Phil Talbot; February – out about our church year, the church occasionally hilarious competition. Two 1 Jan Mills, 2 Pat Pennington, 3 Mervyn building repairs and also give us your teams battled it out before tucking into Brice, 4 Linda Sharrock. Subscriptions thoughts about our church in Templeton. a Ploughman’s Supper. The event, are now due for 2016. Please pay as which is sure to be repeated, raised soon as possible, to start the new draw We are raising money for the Church £72 for Church and Parish Hall funds. in May. building again by putting on a Musical Evening with a supper and bar. This Coming Events at the Hall Church Flower Rota event will take place on Saturday 2 22 April – Live Music with Brian Higbee, 10 / 17 April – Betty Wotton April in the Village Hall at 7pm, doors 6.30 for 7pm. The popular guitarist and 24 April / 1 May – Enid Hamidullah open at 6.45pm. MONOPLE is a great vocalist is welcomed back to 8 / 15 May – Pat Aplin 4 piece band playing music from the Stoodleigh, with music from the 60s 22 / 29 May – Volunteers please 60’s onwards. Tickets available from and 70s. Please bring your own food Gloria 254509, Bindy 860655 or Jan and drinks. Tickets are £5 and 255399. Please come and support available in advance from Margaret and enjoy a memorable evening. Cuningham (01398 351252), Geraldine TEMPLETON Talbot (01398 351391) or other SWAG A great time was had (as always) with members. ur Church was full for the Exe John and Audrey’s Quiz Night, which Valley Group Service on 24 January. was held on 30 January. Entertaining 14 May – Breakfast, Walking and O A real church community, worshipping and fun and often controversial, helped Lunch. Another of our enjoyable together and welcoming all. along by a scrummy supper of sausage walking events. Start with a 9am and mash, followed by chocolate and breakfast at the Parish Hall for the We were delighted to welcome Bishop cheesy treats. Congratulations go to longer route. Later breakfast for a Sarah to take our Morning Service on the Holmead Hopeless Team who won shorter route and meet up for lunch 22 February. She talked about her visit by a quarter of a point. Although not back at the hall. Non walkers can also to Israel and the palpable tensions in intended to be a money raising event, book for lunch. Booking is essential, that country and how Jesus, referring to £294.00 was raised from the quiz and please ring 01398 351391. In aid of the Israel, said he would like to gather raffle. Our thanks to Joyce and Steve Village Hall. them up as a hen gathers up her chicks. Greenslade for providing the delicious She stayed for coffee and many people sausages and to John and Audrey for New Stoodleigh website: For news, were able to share their thoughts with yet another great evening. events and information about our her.

14 TODAY April / May 2016 PARISH ROUND-UP A Charity Spring Draw and free musical have come on us. Hopefully as the old please speak to any of the local evening is to be held at Templeton saying goes: March that comes in as a Trustees (Jeanne Jones, John Burton, Village Hall on Saturday 16 April. The lion - will go out as a lamb! Martin Hansford). They will be delighted bar will be open from 7.00pm and food to tell you more. Information can be purchased throughout the St Mary's, Washfield hosted the Group leaflets/donor forms are available in evening. The musical entertainment Service in February, which was led by Church. commences at 8.00pm with the John, to a good congregation. This is remarkable singer/song writer and a popular service which brings our Our Church's APCM takes place in the acoustic guitarist Alice Gullick. She is Mission Community together to worship Hall on Monday 20 April, to be followed by Nigel Fisher who sings a and pray for our future. preceded by Cheese and Wine at wide range of songs. The draw 6.30pm. This meeting is open to includes cash prizes. Tickets are on The Rev. Jane Wilson led our Family everyone and ALL are welcome to sale on the night or by telephoning Service with a theme that focused on attend. Please come to support St 07807892118. All proceeds from the our need to pray for the homeless and Mary's - your local church. evening will go to Children’s Hospice the work of CHAT. This reflection S.W. resulted on us filling our monthly box The Parish Council's Annual Meeting with extra goods, which were then will be held on Wednesday 27 April at We send thoughts and prayers to donated to CHAT: the charity also 7.30pm. The speaker will be Mr Roger anyone who is ill at this time especially benefited from the Service's collection. Lambert with a talk on 'Shelter Box'. to Pat Taylor who is in hospital at Once again this is an Open Meeting, so present. Lots of children brought their parents to everyone is welcome. the Church on the morning of Mothering We send our congratulations and all Sunday. Many thanks to the people who Several parishioners have not been good wishes to Chris Pearson and Julie made the beautiful seasonal posies, well recently. We are thinking of Mrs Dent who have reached a very special which the children presented to their Carol Bolt and are pleased to hear that birthday and we hope they enjoy their Mums, and other ladies present, during she is now at home and continuing to celebrations. the lovely service, taken by Rev make good progress. Also in our Christopher Rowley. thoughts is Mr Arthur Henson who, at Flower and Cleaning Rota the time of writing, is in hospital after a If helping your local Church is fall. You are both wished the best of Bindy Linden 3 / 10 April important to you, you will find the 'Get Well Wishes'. Also in our prayers Julie Dent 17 / 24 April following piece interesting. Phillida Strong 1 / 8 May are the many others who are not enjoying good health. We sincerely Audrey McInerney 15 / 22 May Over the past 25 years the Worth hope that the better weather coming, Sarah Coffin 29 May / 5 June Family Charity has generously granted will help and lift you all. more than £20,000 from its investment income, to help the PCC maintain Best wishes are also sent to everyone Washfield's Church building and celebrating special birthdays and WASHFIELD churchyard. But the charity’s income anniversaries. Enjoy your special day. has shrunk and specialist contractors’ One today is worth two tomorrows. costs have risen, so the Trustees are About sixty people came to a most Lost time is never again found. inviting donations to restore its enjoyable Burns evening in January. It You may delay, but time will not !! investment income against future needs. So, if maintaining St Mary’s as began with a quiz, then a delicious a key village feature for future traditional Scottish three-course meal aster is fast approaching. It is very followed by a Ceilidh. Very sincere Eearly this year but, at the time of generations is something you wish to writing these notes, Winter seems to support - on a one-off or regular basis - Continued overleaf

15 TODAY April / May 2016 PARISH ROUND-UP thanks go to all the team who organised General Meeting, the committee also Wednesday 27 April: Parish Council this and worked so hard to put together hosted a celebratory drinks and nibbles Annual meeting with Speaker Mr Roger this excellent evening on behalf of the get-together for guests and funders of Lambert on the work of 'Shelterbox' Social Club and Hall. the Hall's recent work. Also celebrated around the world. 7.30pm All welcome. was the enduring long-service of the Saturday 7 May: Car Treasure Hunt The combined organising group have most experienced member of the Hall from 4.30pm with Cream Teas in Hall put together some more exciting events committee. Mrs Grace Bicknell stepped Tuesday 10 May: teatime@thehall that will take place in the village as the down after many, many years of helping from 3pm. All welcome. year progresses. They are: manage the affairs of the Hall, organise Saturday 14 May: Eurovision Song Saturday 7 May - Car Treasure Hunt events and generally take care of the Contest evening at Social Club. Please from 4.30pm and Cream Tea at the Hall. future of the Hall - and what a good time bring a plate of European food. Saturday 14 May - Eurovision Song to step down! The Hall is in an upbeat Competitions, Sweepstake, Fun! phase with a new roof and windows and Contest evening at Social Club. Thursday 19 May: Lunch Club 12 for a good number of hirers coming Competitions, sweepstake on the bar 12.30pm. forward. Thank you Grace for all your before. Bring a plate of European food Tuesday 24 May: Ramblers walk to share. hard work. She was presented with gifts for her garden. starting at Village hall from 10.15am- Saturday 4 June - Family Summer 12.30pm. Any parishioners wishing to Celebration in the centre of the Village. join them are most welcome. Children's entertainment from 4pm and At this time of year many young people BBQ from 5pm. are practising for the Exmoor Challenge and also the Ten Tors events. Good Altar Flower Rota September - Grand Charity Frog Race Mar 27/April 3 Mrs Tobey to raise funds for Save the Children and Luck to everyone competing. April 10/17 Mrs H Arnold ‘Medecins sans Frontiers’. Details to April 24/May 1 Mrs Boundy follow. Dates for your diary May 8/15 Mrs Moore September - Tallest sunflower in a Friday 25 March: Good Friday bucket. Any type of sunflower and Meditation Service 3pm May 22/29 Mrs Bicknell bucket. Get growing soon!Watch out for Saturday 26 March: Easter Egg and posters and further details of these Decorating contests in Church porch at Cleaning Rota events. 10am. Lots of chances to win. Come Mar 21/28 Mr & Mrs Walton along and bring your entries. Followed April 4/11 Mrs Harding/Mrs Jones There is a new Washfield Website at by Coffee Morning in Village Hall with April 18/25 Mrs Albery https://parish.middevon.gov.uk/washfie coffee and hot cross buns, stalls and May 2/9 Mr & Mrs Ellis ld/. We would ask everyone with raffle. ALL WELCOME May 16/23 Mrs French computer access, to look at it and Saturday 26 March: Decorating the May 30/June 6 Mrs Arnold please send any comments or Church for Easter suggestions, to the contact details given on the site. There will be a Tuesday 12 April: teatime@thehall at meeting at the end of April for all groups 3pm. Come along for friendship, chat, WITHLEIGH involved, and anyone who is interested games, tea and cake! Thursday 14 April: W.I. in Hall at in using the website, to talk about what s Spring came, so did the snow, so 7.30pm Volunteer Police Cadets information is there, and how to keep it we are as confused as all the things Thursday 21 April: Lunch Club 12 for A up to date. in our gardens!! 12.30pm On Friday 4 March the Hall committee Monday 20 April: St Mary's Church combined its AGM with 'A bit of a do'. In February we said our farewell to APCM in Hall with Wine and Cheese Ruby Reed during a service in our The evening was a great success and, from 6.30pm. All welcome. as well as dealing with the Annual Church, before she was interred in our

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churchyard. Ruby is now reunited with There is a Fete planning meeting at Withleigh WI meets on the 2nd her husband, Mervyn. It is very strange Bona Vista on Monday, 25 April at Thursday of each month. Guests are to think there is no member of the Reed 8.00pm. Please do come along if you always welcome to come along. If any family being at Great Bradley Cottage are willing to help or have ideas for new of the forthcoming events are of after so many years. stalls or sideshows. interest to you, please call Rosie 01884 257123. Meetings are held at We send our sympathy to the family of Please note change of date for Withleigh Village Hall at 7.15pm, Fred Bolton who also died in February. WITHLEIGH ENTERTAINS. You are all unless stated otherwise in the His ashes were interred in our welcome to join us on Friday 29 April programme. churchyard before a Service of for an evening of Music, Drama and Fun, April 14 with Sue Reeve - Deafness,The Celebration of his life in our Church. in the Village Hall. The evening will be Hidden Disability. Fred is now reunited with his wife, a feast of local talent with short April 28 Group Meeting - with Sue Doris. individual items, followed by a Buffet Virgin. Land Girls, followed by Supper. To end the evening we have a entertainment from The West Exe We also send our sympathy to Caroline, short comedy drama, written, produced Warblers. Mike and the family of Rodney Luxton, and performed by local people. Doors May 12 Withleigh & Washfield - joint who has recently died. Rodney had open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. Tickets AGM. always lived in Withleigh before moving for the evening, to include supper, are to Halberton and then Tiverton. He £8 each. Please reserve your tickets by Forthcoming Events: mowed and cared for our churchyard ringing Duncan 01884 252949 or Thurs, April 14: WI in the Village Hall at for many years whilst he was living in Brenda 01884 252431. 7.15pm. Withleigh. Thurs, April 28: WI Group Meeting, in The Archdeacon’s Visitation is on the Village Hall at 7.15pm. Our love, thoughts and prayers are with Thursday, 12 May at Bampton Church. Friday; April 29: Withleigh Entertains, these families during their time of Please come along to this Service to in the Village Hall 7pm for 7.30pm. bereavement. support our Churchwardens for the coming year. Thurs, May 12: WI AGM with Washfield Congratulations to David and Janet at 7.15pm. Sellick who recently celebrated their A date for your diary: Sunday 12 June, Sun, June 12: Songs of Praise followed Golden Wedding. Songs of Praise followed by a Salad by Lunch in the Village Hall. Our grateful thanks to Harry Hann for Lunch in the Village Hall, to Flower rota: organising the replacement of the celebrate the Queen’s 90th Birthday. April 3 / 10 Margaret Gale church oil storage tank. More details in the next issue of the Today magazine, but if anyone would be April 17 / 24 Linda Taylor Our Mothering Sunday Service was well willing to help with providing the Lunch, May 1 / 8 Shirley Cruwys attended. Potted primroses were please contact Brenda 252431. May 15 / 22 Janet Stacey distributed to the ladies of the May 29 / June 5 Susie Wade congregation. Thank you to Paul and Get well wishes to all who are not well Elizabeth for officiating at this service. at the moment, especially those known Monthly Diary Dates: to us who are receiving treatment and First Thursday – Bingo Our Family Service on 3 April will be an are in, or have been, in hospital. Our Second Monday – Whist Drive informal service in the vestry, and led prayers and thoughts are with you. Second Thursday – W.I. by Susie. Read the TODAY magazine, in colour, on-line at exevalleychurches.org/magazine/index.php

17 TODAY April / May 2016

QUOTATIONS, JOKES AND CHARITY EVENTS

Keep smiling … Thoughts for Everyday CHILDREN’S CORNER by Patience Strong ~ FIRST WEDDING for 4 May A little boy had just attended Off song his first Wedding. When things go all wrong And you’re feeling off song Afterwards he was telling his Don’t think that you won’t sing again. friend all about it. Skies may frown - but they’ll brighten “So what was it like, what did Cares press - but they’ll lighten you learn?” his friend asked. And sunshine come after the rain. “Well, I learned that you The songbirds can’t sing can marry 16 women” Summer, Winter and Spring. he answered. Everything swings to and fro. First it’s music and gladness “How do you know that” Then silence and sadness “Easy” said the little boy No doubt life is meant to be so. “All you have to do is add it up” You may feel subdued But it’s only a mood - it will pass. 4 better And then the dark clouds will depart 4 worse Things will change without warning 4 richer You’ll wake up one morning 4 poorer And find there’s a song in your heart

CHARITY SPRING DRAW Thoughts for Everyday and MUSICAL EVENING by Patience Strong ~ TEMPLETON for 2 April VILLAGE HALL A Friend SATURDAY 16 APRIL A friend is one to whom BAR OPENS 7pm we may pour out the contents Food for sale all evening of our hearts ~ chaff and grain together ~ Entertainment 8pm knowing that the Proceeds to gentlest of hands will sift it, Children’s Hospice keep what is worth keeping South West and with a breath of kindness Phone 07807892118 blow the rest away