PARISH NEWS June 2020 50P

HERSTMONCEUX AND WARTLING PARISH NEWS June 2020 50p

This Month Reverend Richard writes the letter from the Rectory; Rev Peter’s Green Page; Melinda’s Famous Hymns column covers " St Patrick’s Breastplate (“I bind unto myself today”) ", plus the regular columns and news from around the parishes

From the Rectory

Dear Friends,

On the front of this magazine is a photo taken at 8pm on Thursday evening the 30th April as David Harding (Church Warden) was on his way to ring the bell at Wartling Church in thankfulness for the NHS and all care workers. The rainbow at that time was noticed by a number of people in the parishes and I have received a comment regarding how special it was to look at. And of course, the timing was particularly amazing as the rainbow is being used as a sign of hope at this time as we seek to do all we can in order to get back to a better time than this. Indeed, a rainbow image is being displayed in many of our windows at the moment.

Sighting a rainbow has long been believed to be a sign of good things to come. This commonly stems from God’s promise in the first book of the Bible.

Genesis 12v3ff “I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth. Whenever I bring clouds over the earth and the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will remember my covenant between me and you and all living creatures of every kind. Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all life”.

When we are surrounded by rain and flooding, thunder and lightning and dark clouds, a rainbow speaks powerfully to us of a bright new beginning available to us physically and also spiritually that will come, the rainbow is a physical and a spiritual promise.

A rainbow is also often seen as a bridge. It has been used to represent a bridge from earth (from humans) to a brighter, happier place. For instance, Judy Garland’s song “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” in the Wizard of Oz represents connecting to a happier place. Used again in the more recent film ‘Australia’ to powerful effect in a second world war setting, I recommend this film to you.

Thirdly rainbows, or a heavenly equivalent of them, appear more than once in the last book of the Bible. The book of Revelation records rainbows in heaven, both around the throne of God and on Jesus, the theme must be about hope in order to tie in with the rest of scripture. The rainbow colours could represent Jesus who is full of many aspects of love and truth (1Cor 13), the rainbow itself on his head could represent the peace and reconciliation that he offers us all, in all our imperfection with a perfect God, and the rainbow around the throne could be to show us that the way is open to the very heart of heaven for us because of what Jesus has done for us all by his death and resurrection. (See Revelation 4v3 and 10v1).

Of course, a promise of hope is of no real value unless it is accepted by the one it is offered too. We need to believe the message of the rainbow for it to do us any good. Jesus said “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you

2 will find rest for your souls”(Matt 26v28-9). We must each come to him in order to receive the true and living hope that he and his rainbows offer us.

God Bless Richard Steven

Prayer of the Month

Planted in the love of the Father

Planted in the love of the Father You can grow, dear one, You can grow. Watered by the spring of the Spirit His fruit you’ll show, His fruit you’ll show. And when the sun scorches, And the thorns threaten, And the storms around life’s garden blow – Your roots will hold, And hold secure, Because you’re planted in the love of the Father.

By Daphne Kitching

For many other prayers to help us in this time of Coronavirus see: www.crosswalk .com

June 2020 Services

Please contact Rev. Richard Steven if you would like to take part in our interactive church services on Sunday's. These will run while our Church buildings are closed due to restrictions because of the Corona Virus pandemic.

Telephone 01323 833124 or e mail [email protected]

Many thanks

Richard

Wartling Church Spire Re-Shingling Update

We were hoping to re-start the Spire works in May/June but have hit a new problem!

As it is nesting season, and getting towards a peak in bat activity too, we are advised to leave the Spire works until the autumn. So, the plan is now to re-start in September.

Please bear with us as the Church will have its decorous cover for a while longer!

Unfortunately, the Church remains locked. Richard will advise us when the Diocese gives the ‘all clear’.

Do hope everyone is keeping safe and well.

David and Paul

Wartling Church Spire Re-Shingling Update

An excellent Horseshoe rainbow sculpture that is on display in Herstmonceux High Street created by Stephen Dean to thank the NHS and all key workers.

Rev Peter’s Green Page

One Act of Random Kindness at a Time

Love and Compassion are necessities, Not Luxuries. Without them Humanity Cannot Survive.” (The Dalai Lama)

The Dalai Lama was describing a conversation with a friend of his, Father Leonel Narváez who was very involved with the issues of political forgiveness especially in the strife ridden country of Colombia, his home. He asked him what was the inspiration for his tireless work in forgiveness, and Farther Narváez said the following:

“The importance of forgiveness came to me when riding my bike through a cemetery. I was thinking about death and our finite life. If you are able to understand that your life will end you would understand why you should not hold on to hate and realise that anger and hate are such a burden.”

We have seen the results of anger and hate only too often in our world today, and yet everyone on earth has a true purpose, which is to learn how to love unconditionally to forgive and to be kind, as kindness is the exact opposite of anger and hate. Kindness is Love, care, forgiveness and compassion all rolled into one. The fact is that kindness raises the level of humanity and spiritual growth for all of us here on earth.

A favourite quote of mine is this, by Amelia Earhart: “A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions, and the roots spring up and make new trees”

This was amended and used by the actor, Morgan Freeman, who played God in the film, “Evan Almighty.” At one point in the film, he tells newly elected congressman Evan Baxter that to ‘change the world,’ simply takes “One act of random kindness at a time”

There have been a lot of these random acts lately, the present Coronavirus situation may have brought out the worst in some people, but it has also brought out the very best in many, many other people. People that have made the most of the opportunities by acting upon the needs of others.

It is the duty of us all, to do these acts of random kindness, to act on the opportunity to be kind to and to care for others. When we do so we have both the heart and the mind of God. Love and kindness are both words that can only be expressed in actions, so if you want to get closer to god, then just add one act of random kindness to another, and another, and so on.

Rev Peter

Recipes to Try

During the lock down, it seems that a lot of us are cooking more, even though getting things like flour, eggs etc. is harder. I found a copy of the Herstmonceux Guides Cook book compiled in about 2000-2001. Below are a couple of the recipes which you may like to try. Hope you enjoy.

No Bake Square  150g mixed digestive and sweet biscuits.  50g raisins  50g plain chocolate  30ml golden syrup  75g butter.

Grease a 19cm square tine. Crush the biscuits but do not make them too fine. Add the raisins to the biscuits. Break up the chocolate and melt it with the syrup and butter. When it is smooth, stir the liquid into the biscuit crumbs and mix thoroughly. Press into the tin and leave to harden

Two Layer Lemon Mousse A very quick and easy store cupboard recipe.  1pk Lemon Jelly  1 tin evaporated milk. Serves 4-6

Make Jelly as packet instructions using 3/4pt water. Leave to get cold- not set. Whip up milk until thick- combine with jelly and leave to set. This recipe generally settles into 2 layers when left to set.

Vegetable Layer Bake.  2 medium potatoes  1 medium carrot.  4oz mushrooms  2oz cheese  1 oz butter  1/4pt milk.  1 egg.

Peel and thinly slice the potatoes, carrots and mushrooms. Arrange half the veg in layers in an ovenproof dish. Sprinkle over half of the cheese. Arrange remaining vegetables on top.

Mix together the egg, milk and salt and pepper. Pour over the veg and sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top.

Bake for 50 minutes 375/190/Gas 5.

WILL WRITING SERVICE Usual fee per Will £145 plus VAT Free Wills Brochure Available on Request (Lasting Powers of Attorney from £235 + VAT) Tel: (01323) 460395 Barry & Co Solicitors Bay Terrace Pevensey Bay, East Sussex, BN24 6EE

A Quiz for all Questions - Edinburgh Evening News 1. What is the most common colour of toilet paper in France? 2. If you dug a hole through the centre of the earth starting from Wellington in New Zealand, which European country would you end up in? 3. Henry VIII introduced which tax in England in 1535? 4. What is the correct term for a question mark immediately followed by an exclamation mark? 5. The average person does what thirteen times a day? 6. Coprastaphobia is the fear of what? 7. What were the first ice hockey pucks made out of? 8. It's illegal in Texas to put what on your neighbour’s Cow? 9. Which bird is nicknamed The Laughing Jackass? 10. Who entered a contest to find his own look-alike and came 3rd? 11. French artist Aquabouse paints cows with what material? 12. In 1978 an Iowa judge dismissed a drink driving charge for what obscure reason? 13. In which country are there six villages called Silly, 12 called Billy, and two called Pratt? 14. Native to the Caribbean, what sort of animal is the mountain chicken? 15. The UK's Dyslexia Research Trust is based in which British city? 16. What nickname was given to Rembrandt's The Night Watch after being over- restored in the 1940s? 17. True or false: You can sneeze in your sleep 18. Who invented the word vomit? 19. Which European country has 158 verses to its national anthem? 20. Which country has the most tornadoes by area? 21. The leader of which country has his face on all the yoghurt pots, has named the month January after himself and banned ballet. 22. What is Scooby Doo’s full name? 23. What is the collective noun for a group of unicorns? 24. Where was the fortune cookie invented? 25. What is the cross between a donkey and a zebra known as? ANSWERS ON PAGE 21

How can I help?

I know that sometimes you feel that you would like to be involved in some aspect of church life or groups but are not sure about what commitment you are able to make. Any time no matter how small would be very much appreciated, we know that the year ahead will be tough but we all need to pull together and help each other, we need to laugh, play and most of all pray.

Give Richard a ring on 833124, John King 832079 or talk to any of the church wardens (no’s on the back of the Parish News) and we can suggest ways that you can be involved. Fund raising is a major part of our year, events as the Summer Fair, coffee mornings and other activities are a no – no at present so money raised for the maintenance of the church building will be less than normal. Please bear with us, the church buildings have been with us for hundreds of years and we will undertake to keep them in a good state for the next hundreds of years

Just as a note from me personally, I would like to say thank you to all those who are looking after the community, for carers, refuse collectors, bus drivers, those who are keeping life as normal as possible. Thank You. Pam K.

Activity Groups

As we continue to be inside and unable to meet together in our different activity groups we must remember to keep in touch.

Knit and Stitch members maybe try something new or make something that we could use on a stall later in the year. If anyone wants a new pattern to try give me a ring I have quite a lot of patterns so will try to help.

Obviously Mega Explorers are not meeting due to the school closing and I am sure that even the child that doesn’t want to go to school normally will be missing meeting friends and the inter-action of school life. I have included some children’s activities in this copy of the Parish News.

Kidz Club is our Sunday School equivalent held in the church building once a month, mainly for pre-schoolers and primary age children. We look forward to re- starting this as soon as it is safe to do so.

RICHARD WHALE CHRISTOPHER REED DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS Interior & Exterior Microwaves – Vacuum Cleaners Dish Washers – Electric Cookers DECORATING Tumble Dryers – Washing Machines PROFFESSIONAL WORK COMPETITIVE PRICES ALL ASPECTS, FULLY INSURED FREE ESTIMATES TEL: 01323 507043 PLEASE CALL 01323 833179 24 HOUR ANSWERING SERVICE

Famous Hymns

St Patrick’s Breastplate (“I bind unto myself today”)

St Patrick was probably born in a noble family in Scotland in the 4th century AD. His father was apparently of Roman descent, a member of the local town council as well as being a Deacon, and his grandfather was a priest. The story goes that Patrick was seized by pirates as a young man and sold into slavery in Ireland, where he learned the Irish language. Later, he escaped, was ordained and returned in due course to Ireland in about 425AD as the second Bishop. He felt he had been called to convert Ireland to Christianity. He mainly based himself in Armagh, in northern Ireland, near the Court of Tara, base of the most powerful king in Ireland at the time. He founded a school and made several missionary journeys to establish the Celtic church.

The first known reference to St Patrick’s celebrated prayer dates from 690AD, with an instruction that it should be sung in “all monasteries and churches throughout the whole of Ireland”. Tradition says St Patrick recited it on Easter Sunday, on his way to the court of the pagan king Laoghaire and his fire-worshipping druids at Tara. It’s said Laoghaire planned to ambush Patrick to stop him bringing Christian teachings to his court, but when St Patrick said the prayer, he and his monks were hidden in a mist (or in one version appeared as a herd of deer) to prevent the ambush. The Gaelic poem is called St. Patrick’s Lorica, or breastplate. (A lorica was a mystical garment that was sup-posed to protect the wearer from danger and illness, and guarantee entry into Heaven.) Alternatively, this may be a reference to Ephesians 6:16 (about taking the “shield of faith” to protect from “all the flaming arrows of the evil one"). The prayer outlines St Patrick's keen awareness of the battle between good and evil and thus the importance of praying daily for protection. He starts and ends by invoking the protection of the Trinity.

An old Irish Gaelic manuscript of the prayer was discovered in the library of Trinity College Dublin in the early 19th century. In the years that followed, various people had a go at translating it. Early versions start “I bind to myself today the strong power of an invocation of the Trinity”, or “At Tara today, in this awful hour, I call on the Holy Trinity”.

In 1889 HH Dickinson, Dean of the Chapel Royal, Dublin Castle, wrote to Mrs Cecil Alexander enclosing the best prose translations of St Patrick’s prayer that he could find. He asked her for a metrical version of it so it could be sung, and he later wrote that within a week, she sent him an “exquisitely beautiful as well as faithful version”, which was sung on St Patrick’s Day 1889 and subsequently incorporated into the Irish Church Hymnal. This is the version we still use today.

Melinda Stone

Vitality Villages

Herstmonceux Community Land Trust – New Homes Project

The Trust’s plan for homes for people with local connections to be built at Strawberry Field, Windmill Hill was put on hold early this year when government budgets caused all Community Housing Fund grants to be frozen. Whilst the grants were not renewed in the March 2020 budget, we are pleased to announce that, as a result of lobbying the Housing Minister and national publicity, Herstmonceux CLT was one of the few CLT projects to have their original grant approval re-instated.

We have now received our grant of £274,365 which will allow us to progress to construction stage. The situation slowed the project by about 5 months but nevertheless we are grateful to Homes England and the Community Housing Fund for standing by their commitment.

Details of the project may be viewed at www.community21.org/herstmonceuxclt or if you would like to assist the CLT with your time or expertise please contact Alan McInnes on 01323 833306 for more information.

Trinity Sunday

7th June is Trinity Sunday this year. What’s that?

Have you heard the Indian folk tale about the blind people who wanted to find out what an elephant was like? They were taken to meet one: each reached out to touch it. One person felt the trunk and said an elephant was like a snake. Another touched a leg and decided that an elephant was like a tree. Someone standing by the ear said an elephant was like a fan, while the one who touched the tusk said no – an elephant was definitely like a spear. A poem which relates this saga describes the resulting argument which was

“Loud and long, Each in his own opinion, exceeding stiff and strong Though each was partly in the right, And all were in the wrong.”

Without being irreverent, is that what we may be like, when we think of the Trinity of Father, Son and Holy Spirit? Trinity Sunday is one of the few Christian feasts to celebrate a doctrine, not an event, and it started me thinking about Christian teaching on the Trinity. It’s really hard to visualise how one of anything can also be three (or, come to that, three of anything can be one), but can we put it to one side or ignore it?

The word ‘doctrine’ may seem off-putting, but what the Trinity is really about is trying to begin to convey the magnificence and complexity of God. Ignoring the doctrine of the Trinity hampers our understanding of God and limits our Christian experience of the living God we encounter through Jesus Christ in the Holy Spirit.

No single image can express even a little bit of what God is like. If God were just the original and remote creator of the world, removed from its challenges and dangers, that would be very impersonal, not “fatherly”. If God is only as seen in Jesus, the Son, that would show “the human face of God” but wouldn’t be supported by the way Jesus emphasised distinctions between himself and his Father. If God were just Spirit, present and active within the natural world, this too would limit our understanding of God who as creator stands over nature. In teaching on the Trinity, we can glimpse the loving and living God who created the world, redeemed it through Jesus’ tender self-sacrificing love, and is present now in our lives.

In different times and places, there has been undue emphasis on one part of the Trinity at the expense, or to the exclusion, of the others. Ask yourself, ‘which part of the Trinity do I tend to give less attention to?’ Or is there a part you tend to emphasise more than the others? It’s been said that the Trinity is like sitting on a 3-legged milking stool. Some Christian groups focus on God as creator and judge; some extreme charismatics focus on the Holy Spirit almost to the exclusion of Father and Son. Make one stool leg very fat and the others spindly, and the stool will probably break when you want to rely on it. Take away any leg, and the stool (and you!) will fall over.

Back to the story about blind people and the elephant. We do need to be aware of the whole elephant! Thinking about God as Three in One is indeed a great mystery, but it is also a very helpful way of opening up our minds to understand what God is really like and what it means to take him seriously.

Melinda Stone (with thanks to Alister McGrath and his book “The Christian Vision of God”, and to my sister Sue Algeo and one of her sermons)

Updates from some of our advertisers

1st Rate Aerials and Satellites

Business as usual! Contact us for a free quote on 0800 032 3255 or 07920 526703.

Sussex Bowen Technique

Currently, we are unable to offer ‘hands on’ therapies due to social distancing. However, if you require assistance and would like to discuss strategies until we are once again permitted to return to that all important ‘hands on’ time, please contact Nina on 01323 833034 or 07902 955162.

Michael Salvage Tree Surgeon

We are currently still working, and we are happy to visit our customers for either work or estimates, with social distancing rules applied. Please contact 01323 442121

Tai Chi & Qigong classes

Classes are now available online. For more information, please contact Lynne on 07752 012438 or [email protected]

East Sussex Osteopaths and East Sussex Massage:

Due to the current COVID 19 pandemic we are offering online treatments and personalised stretching regimes. Emergency osteopathic treatments are still available if deemed safe and appropriate. Please contact us for further information.

East Sussex Osteopaths - Tel: 07481 666887 or [email protected]

East Sussex massage - Tel: 07762 576495 or [email protected]

Sarahjane Prince Cert Ed, MAR. Registered with the General MSMA (NHS registered) Osteopathic Council and the Institute of Sports Massage, Reiki, Hot Stone Osteopathy Structural Osteopathy Massage, Aromatherapy, Swedish Cranial Osteopathy Massage, Zonal Face Lift, Ear Animal Osteopathy Candling, Foot, Hand and Face East Sussex Osteopaths offer clinic Reflexology Fertility and Delivery Reflexology appointments in Dallington and Heathfield Clinics in Dallington and To book an appointment, please call Heathfield Tel: 07762 576495 07481 666887 www.eastsussexmassage.co.uk [email protected] www.eastsussex-osteopaths.co.uk [email protected] Working from the rooms of East Sussex Calls for complimentary advice also welcome. Osteopaths

ALL ASPECTS OF AERIAL AND SATELITE WORK TELEPHONE/BROADBAND/WIFI FRIENDLY AND RELIABLE LOCAL ENGINEER 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE REGISTERED WITH TRADING STANDARDS AND CHECKATRADE CALL STEVE ON 01323 442557 or 07968345409 www.hdi-aerials.co.uk

For the Children

Here are a couple of prayers for children that I hope will help them at this time.

Please give me courage, Lord. I’m frightened of so many things that people would call me a coward if they knew. I’m never dared let anyone know how scared I am of being alone in the dark. I’m frightened of some creatures, afraid of storms and of getting hurt or of anyone I love being injured or taken ill, especially at this time. I wouldn’t dare tell anyone but you about all this. Please God help me not to be so afraid and give me courage to face whatever comes. I thank you that you are always there. Amen.

Dear Lord, Thank you for our friends and family. Even though we can’t meet our friends at the moment, thank you that we can talk to them on the phone or on line. Help those children that haven’t got computers or phones and can’t talk to their friends. We know that happy times will come again and we can all get together soon. Amen.

I came across a item of holiday humour and thought I would share. I hope they make you laugh.

At a National Trust beauty spot, a bus stopped and was boarded by a lady with six children. “Are these all yours “ asked the driver. “Or is it a picnic?”

“They’re all mine,” she said. “And it’s no picnic”.

Perhaps we all feel like that at the moment

Turn to page 17 for a picture for the children to print and colour in.

CHIROPODIST Linda M Paddock S R WELFARE LTD F.S.S.Ch., Dip.Pod.Med., M.B.Ch.A. HPC Registered FOR ALL YOUR Home visits by appointment ELECTRICAL NEEDS INSURED AND CERTIFIED Herstmonceux (01323) 833262 CALL SEAN Barbara and Deanne welcome you to 07904330146 CAPRICE HAIR FASHIONS for Ladies and Gentlemen Hairdressing Gardner Street, Herstmonceux

Tel: 01323 832117

Bit of this, Bit of that. SARAH BARTHOLOMEW RHS Qualified and fully equipped gardening service. For the service and quality you have been looking for. Property and garden maintenance Lawns, Hedges, Trees, Shrubs and improvements The way you want them General handy man Flower Beds, Pots, Troughs, Baskets Weeded, planted and made beautiful again ALL this and more. Derek Willis 01323 847338 home or mobile 07780 681878 Email: [email protected] For a prompt reliable and professional service 07977 196304 or 01323 833304

For the Children

Ask an adult to print off the picture below for you to colour in and even share your coloured in pictures with us.

Pat’s Flowers TAI CHI & QIGONG For all your Wedding Flowers Online classes available and Funeral Tributes For more information please 2 Amberstone Cottages, Amberstone, contact Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 1PG Tel: 07752 012438 Call Pat on 01323 848217 or 441853 Email: [email protected] [email protected] ATTWOOD MOTOR SERVICES SERVICING . REPAIRS . TYRES EXHAUSTS . MOT’S . CAR COLLECTION Ring Billy 07801563009 or 01323 833893 ALL CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED [email protected]

CORDLESS LTD FLOWERS GREEN PLANTS Church Road, Herstmonceux 01323 Carpentry & All 833256 www.flowersgreen.co.uk Building WORK For all your bedding plant requirements. Also herbs, perennials, alpines, patio and basket www.cordlessltd.co.uk plants, veg plants, hanging baskets and patio pots. 01323 832942 or 07957201565 RETAIL & WHOLESALE Open 9am to 4pm Mon-Fri & Sat 9am to 1pm. Sundays - Closed MICHAEL SALVAGE TREE SURGEON All Aspects of Tree Surgery and Felling. Also, Stump Grinding and Fencing Fully qualified with over 40 years experience £10 million public liability insurance. Tel: 01323 442121

THOMPSON & CO - Builders Family run business in Herstmonceux for 45 years Extensions Drives Re-pointing Re-roofing Alterations Patios and all General building Tel: 01435 865009 - Mob: 07704723216 - 01323 832304 e-mail: [email protected] Kate Short Complementary Therapies Soothing, Effective Treatments in a Tranquil & Restorative Setting.

I believe that ‘time out’, relaxation & massage are the gateway to improved health & well-being Anyone undergoing times of stress or change or who simply wants to relax, settle their mind, improve sleep patterns or boost their immune system, could find benefits in: Reflexology, Seated Head-Neck-Shoulder Massage or Reiki Healing and you’ll be back on your feet in no time! Contact me to find out more or to try a free 10-minute taster session. Kate Short, Conquerors, Stunts Green, BN27 4PR 01323 832446 – [email protected]

ORCHARD VIEW PARK Victoria Road, Herstmonceux Tel: 01323 832335 PARK HOMES FOR SALE HOLIDAY CARAVANS FOR SALE HOLIDAY CARAVANS FOR HIRE CALOR GAS STOCKIST Open Mon, Tue, Wed 10am to 12pm

Answers to our Quiz

1. Pink 2. Spain 3. A beard tax 4. Interrobang 5. Laughs 6. Constipation 7. Frozen cow dung 8. Graffiti 9. Kookaburra 10. Charlie Chaplin 11. Cow dung 12. Too drunk to sample 13. France 14. Frog 15. Reading 16. The Day Watch 17. False 18. William Shakespeare 19. Greece 20. England 21. Turkmenistan 22. Scoobert Doo 23. A blessing 24. San Francisco 25. Zeedonk

In the Garden with Bernice Burke

Frequently I think how lucky we are to have a garden and an allotment. Both require a lot of work at this time of the year, especially the allotment. Gardeners can never be bored at home as there is always a job to do. The pleasure derived from eating one’s own fruit and vegetables is enormous. So, for those of us lucky enough to have a patch to tend we already have a pretty full-time job in the Spring. Gardens are also sanctuaries in which we can rest and relax and enjoy the beauty and sounds of the natural environment. We are woken up early in the morning by the birdsong and in the evening, when the dark blue of the skies is just showing stars we can hear the solitary blackbird singing.

This morning when I went out for my walk with Millie on this perfect late spring day, enjoying a lane awash with cow parsley and pink and red campion I reflected on a drama that has unfolded in our garden over the last few weeks. We had a pair of blackbirds that nested early in the spring and were soon feverishly feeding their chicks. Mrs blackbird was always busy, dashing about the garden for worms every minute of the day. Mr blackbird, whom my husband named Bob, was more measured in his steps but still spent the whole daylight hours listening for worms and taking them home to his hungry offspring. Then tragedy struck! One morning there was a little pile of feathers on our lawn. The sparrow hawk has enjoyed an early breakfast, and that breakfast was Mrs. Blackbird. Bob seemed to give up and was seen wandering around in a daze. However, the following morning he was back hunting out worms and working harder than ever. Over the following week he was a constant presence on our lawn. Then one day my husband said Bob had been making a huge racket and that he thought the nest had been robbed of its chicks by a magpie.

That was the end of the story we thought. Bob was still feeding in the garden but not as frenetically as he had before. And then one morning, to our great delight, we saw Bob and another bird. They were hopping around the garden together. Perhaps Bob has found a new Mrs.Blackbird we thought. However, soon we realised that the stranger was one of Bob’s chicks, Baby Bob in fact! Since then we have watched them with great pleasure and seen the way Bob has looked after and trained Baby Bob. What a wonderful father he has proved to be.

Ray and Sheldon Club Due to the current situation there will be no Ray and Sheldon club this month.

Coffee Morning

Please note the coffee mornings are cancelled until further notice.

Locked Out? Faulty Locks? Call Altkey Locksmiths

• Lock Opening & Fitting • Fully Insured • Upvc Door & Window • Domestic & Commercial Repair • 24 Hr Emergency Repairs • Independent Locksmiths • No Call-Out Charge • Free Surveys Modern Services, Traditional Values 01435 812730 I 07557 476699 Email: [email protected] Website: www.altkeylocksmiths.co.uk

Oil Appliance Service, & Installation Michael Lucioni OFTEC Registered Technician Oil Boiler Servicing & Repairs, AGA/Rayburn, New Boilers & Oil Tanks System Upgrades & General Plumbing Tel. 07817 933015

WINDMILL HILL GARAGE B. P. & N. K. RODEMARK

SALES AND SERVICE NEW AND USED CARS SPECIALIST REPAIRS

TEL: 01323 833311

Contemporary & Traditional PEBBLESTONE KITCHENS Gavin Holden Fully fitted or supply only Quality Kitchens at affordable prices Telephone: 01424 844522 25 Cooden Sea Road, Little Common

Fencing, Patios & Landscaping Mowing, Hedgecutting, Mole & Wasp control Contact Tim Honeysett 07733 388968 01323 833057 [email protected] NPTC qualified Fully insured

DISPUTES? SOME QUESTIONS FOR YOU…. Is your own home your castle? Have you got plans? Thinking of a little (or BIG!) extension? Boundary-fence a problem? With years of experience we are at your disposal for careful advice. Why not call us on the number below? WE ARE HERE TO HELP YOU!

Fiona Duff is a Solicitor Advocate, local, and has 20 yrs experience. A discrete chat could be just what you need! Call her on 01424893210. (Anytime Answerphone Option) Email: [email protected] More details of her work: www.legalknowledge.net

A Word from John

On the 17th June 2000, I was licenced as a Reader (Lay Minister) in Chichester Cathedral, to serve in the parishes of Herstmonceux and Wartling. It seems amazing that this month 20 years will have gone by.

During this period Martin Francis has retired, Su Marshall has come and also retired, and now Richard is our vicar. I have been so fortunate to have had 3 vicars who have helped my ministry. Martin who encouraged me in my training, all 3 who have involved me in the running of our 2 churches.

Throughout these years I have also been blessed to have had parishioners who have been so supportive. Both Jocelyn and I were made so welcome when we came in 1997, parishioners who came to Chichester in June 2000 for my licensing service, for the help when Jocelyn died in 2016 and for their love and encouragement over 20 years.

I shall never forget the Tea Party for me on my 70th Birthday in the Reid Hall.

Things change ups and downs, and as far as the downs are concerned the present situation arising out of the Covonavirus (Covid 19) is both abnormal, challenging and all of us have seen our lives drastically changed. Not only our lives, but also billions of lives all over our World.

This has meant drastic changes, especially if we are living on our own, so it is very easy to have negative thoughts but I believe we have to try to be positive.

We do have the ability to communicate by some means-telephone, computer, I- phones, actually writing letters. In our own area, as of the 17th May, 662 people out of 554,590 have contracted this disease. I certainly do not mean to trivialise this fact but to be positive, this means that 99.8% of people in East Sussex have not had the disease. Of course, we continually have to be on our guard, keeping 2 metres apart and regularly washing our hands.

I am sure that our prayers go to all who have this disease and especially those that have lost loved ones.

Having taken a funeral recently where only 10 were allowed to attend because of social isolation; so not only is there grief of bereavement but also so many other restrictions.

I am sad that our church buildings have not been open. Richard and all vicars have been given guidance by the Archbishops that church doors must remain closed.

Again, positively we can pray, for those suffering as a result of the virus, pray for all researchers that a vaccine may be found, with the knowledge that research staff in all countries of the World are searching for a vaccine.

We can pray for our families and friends. We can give thanks for the work of the NHS, pharmacies, staff in care homes, Captain (Colonel)Tom and the huge numbers of people who are helping their neighbours, bringing medicines, food, all sorts of help.

By the end of June, the lockdown will have been in place for 10 weeks. We give thanks for the excellent weather thus far and look forward to our lives getting back to some sort of normality.

God Bless John

Herstmonceux Castle Update

At present the gardens and grounds at Herstmonceux Castle remain closed following government guidance. This also applies to The Observatory Science Centre.

We are hoping that we may be able to open the Castle’s gardens and grounds from July 4th but again we need to ensure all safety measures are in place following government guidance.

It may be the case that we need to limit ticket numbers/pre-sell tickets or allow just season ticket holders in first to comply with social distancing measures once we can open and we will be looking at this more over the next couple of weeks.

We hope to welcome everyone back to the gardens and grounds as soon as we are able; but at the moment we remain closed and ask everyone to respect this by not entering the estate and to keep to public footpaths.

Once we know more we will update our website and on social media and in the next Parish magazine.

We would like to send thanks the local community for their support in these challenging times

Herstmonceux and Wartling Summer Fair

As you will realise, the fair this year will not take place on June 20th as planned, please watch this space as we will re-schedule this as soon as it is safely possible.

The Reid Hall - Boreham Street

www.reidhallborehamstreet.co.uk HERSTMONCEUX VILLAGE HALL A purpose built hall in a rural setting Available to hire for clubs, meetings, indoor sports and social events Ideal for wedding receptions and parties - Excellent Parking Large and small halls, lounge, stage. Fully equipped kitchen. To discuss your booking or arrange a visit email: [email protected] or phone 01323 831854 Full details and pictures at www.herstmonceuxparish.org.uk

VILLAGE INFORMATION CENTRE Providing Information and Support to the Community Free countywide information on local events; tourism; travel; supporting organisations; benefits, etc. Computers, photocopier and laminator available.

Do come and see us. Always a warm welcome. OPEN: Mornings, Mon-Fri 9.30am-12.30pm. Sat 10am-12noon 2& 3 THE OLD FORGE . GARDNER STREET . BN27 4LE TELEPHONE: (01323) 833961

Herstmonceux Castle Update

There has been lots written in the press about how these difficult times have brought out the best in so many communities across the country. And it is great to know that this is very much the case in Herstmonceux. The Parish council was quickly off the mark when the impact of the virus started to be felt. An immediate leaflet drop was arranged, and a phoneline set up to ensure the support service would be accessible to everyone in the parish, including those with nothing more than a landline. Many people have wonderful and dedicated neighbours and friends, but we needed to be as sure as possible that no-one was without support.

A large team of fully checked volunteers quickly came together, and progressively over the weeks all of these are making a real contribution to supporting those who are housebound and looking for help with the essentials of day to day life like shopping and picking up prescriptions. We offer regular support to 20 to 30 clients, with less frequent requests from a further 30, all of whom registered with the dedicated helpline.

Shopping has eased just a little as supermarkets have opened up online slots, but these do not suit all, and everyone also appreciates the regular contact that shopping lists and delivery bring. The prescription service is now in the capable hands of Angela Creasey (with all requests still through the helpline to ensure record keeping is clear). It has reduced anxiety for many of the most vulnerable in our midst as their medication arrives promptly and cheerily, and the service has also been appreciated at the Pharmacy where reduced footfall is helpful to their service and safety.

We have been keen to keep up the spirits of the housebound with less essential contacts. We are now preparing Edition 3 of the Newsletter, a bright and upbeat communication for everyone on our list kindly designed by Sam Gleadow. The bunches of Herstmonceux Castle tulips were hugely appreciated, and on May Day cakes donated by Paula at the Little Bake Shop were delivered with encouragement to enjoy while phoning a friend. The next newsletter will be out soon and we’re talking about what we might do on the next Bank Holiday.

Many of those we support are in turn looking to do their bit to help others. A number are involved in the wonderful Scrubs sewing work, phone calls and connections have been made, and plants have been grown and passed on to others in the group.

Do remember we’re up for tackling any need for the vulnerable amongst us, however small. Phone 07934 712707 or email LCAV

Herstmonceux Free Church News

Dates for the diary:

In March we took the sad decision to suspend all our meetings until further notice. This is in line with government advice during the coronavirus (covid-19) outbreak.

For further information, contact our Family and Community Worker, Sylvia Catt 07909 644762.

For further information see our website: www.herstmonceuxfreechurch.org.uk or contact our Family and Community Worker, Sylvia Catt 07909 644762, or John and Helen Ford 01323 832266.

RELIGIOUS SOCIETY OF FRIENDS (QUAKERS) HERSTMONCEUX LOCAL MEETING We meet at 10.45 on the first and third Sunday of every month. Join us for a quiet hour of worship and reflection at the Friends’ Meeting House, West End, Herstmonceux BN27 4NR or call 01323 844269 for more details. www.quaker.org.uk

HAILSHAM and POLEGATE CATHOLIC CHURCHES Sunday Masses Saturday 6:00pm, Sunday 10:00am at St. Wilfrid’s Hailsham Sunday 8:45am, at St. George’s Polegate Holy Days 10:00am at St. George’s, Polegate; 7:00pm at St. Wilfrid’s, Hailsham

Would you like your business to reach more of the Herstmonceux and Wartling community? Advertising in the Herstmonceux and Wartling Parish News for the year (12 editions) ranges from £40 to £125 depending on the size of the advert. Contact Sarah Honeysett, via email on [email protected]

PARISH NEWS Please send text copy email (together with your name and phone number) to Miss Katherine Blake, [email protected] (c/o Parish News). Deadline is midday on the 15th of the month prior to publication. N.B. due to new arrangements no copy can be accepted later.

PARISH NEWS SUBSCRIPTIONS If you would like a copy of the Parish News delivered to your door each month for the discounted rate of £5:50 for the year, then please contact Chris Edwards on 01323 833207 or email [email protected]

All Saints’, Herstmonceux St. Mary Magdalene, Wartling www.herstmonceuxandwartlingchurches.com

PRIEST-IN-CHARGE Rev. Richard Steven Tel: 01323 833124 ASSISTANT PRIEST Rev. Peter Doodes Tel: 01424 892329 LAY READER Mr. John King, Camelot, Boreham Street Tel: 832997 CHURCHWARDENS Herstmonceux Mr. Gerald Stone Tel: 833976 Mrs. Pam Kendall Tel: 833079 Wartling Mr. David Harding Tel: 832150 Mr. Paul Hurle Tel: 832980 ASSISTANT CHURCHWARDENS Herstmonceux Mr. Mick Bridges Tel: 833831 PCC SECRETARIES Herstmonceux Mrs. Melinda Stone Tel: 833976 Wartling Mrs. Penny Vasey Tel: 833603 PCC TREASURER for both Herstmonceux and Wartling Mr. Andrew Phillips Tel: 832619 ORGANISTS Herstmonceux Mrs. Anne Kenward Tel: 441244 Wartling Mr. Frank Beeney Tel: 832587 VERGERS Herstmonceux Mrs. Pam Kendall Tel: 833079 Wartling Mr. Paul Hurle Tel: 832980 FRIENDS OF ALL SAINTS’ Treasurer Mr. Tim Roberts Tel: 832400 GIFT AID SECRETARY for Herstmonceux and Wartling Mr. Andrew Phillips Tel: 832619

PARISH NEWS SUBSCRIPTIONS

If you would like a copy of the Parish News delivered to your door each month for the discounted rate of £5:50 for the year, then please contact Chris Edwards on 01323 833207 or email [email protected]

Tel: 01323 831555 Follow us on Facebook and instagram