April, which in Sheldon is the real start of the year. The swallows return (we opened our stable doors for them in mid March, just to be sure they didn’t catch us out), and when they do, swallows it’s Spring and Summer, chocolate eggs and Easter all rolled into one. Happy Easter!
Sunday March 18th was a special day for young George Fisher. Eleven weeks old a few days before, and his Baptism in our church during Holy Communion. Baptism on the fourth Sunday of Lent: when better to throw our thoughts forward to what was to come, but is already with us, new life, young, angelic and innocent with St Michael and All Angels watching protectively over him in our church. A heart warming event for everyone, family, friends, and the village, all brought together in this wonderful event with focus on the star of the show, George.
It is also the time when the grass cutting starts, and this year we’re having to pay for the churchyard to be cut and kept tidy; it is going to cost us £240! The churchyard is a very beautiful one, the graves are always well kept, with flowers appearing on them as from nowhere at regular times, thanks to yet more community-minded people in Sheldon, and it is an important first impression of the church. So, we need to find the money; some I have no doubt will come from some of the normal fundraising events already planned, but any small donation from anyone will be most gratefully received. If you can help, could you see Anne or Kath. Please, it is such a beautiful church and graveyard that anything we can do to enhance it, enhances both the church and our village and our community.
(Editor’s comment: The grass cutting used to be done by those members of society who were being punished through community service. However, that particular source of labour appears to have dried up, leaving the village hundreds of pounds worse off; why has this been allowed to happen?)
We always do very well with community awards, and this year Julia Lester received one for all the voluntary work she has done in the village over more than 40 years, since she first came here as a very young girl. Hers was presented at a ceremony held by Derbyshire Dales District Council, presided over by Councillor Mrs Twigg at the Arc leisure centre on March 15th. In the nomination statement it was said that not only Julia but her whole family was deserving of this award for their huge input to village life, and voluntary service for well over 40 years, in just about ever facet of our community existence. Julia and her family have contributed something incalculable, unsung and not wanting any praise or trumpet blowing, just quietly helping. Well done!
Coffee morning with the vicar is on April 3rd in the village hall at 10 am, followed by the Church Annual Meeting in the church at 11.15 am.
Sheldon Parish Meeting AGM: Wednesday 11th April, 7.30 pm in the village hall. It’s annual election time as well, so anyone on the Sheldon electoral roll wanting to be nominated for any of the posts or committees, please see Sheila.
Please note that only registered voters within the parish (i.e. on the electoral roll) are able to attend the Parish Meeting, and public attendance is discretionary and by prior arrangement only.