Sheldon Jottings for June 2015

Spring is moving into summer in Sheldon, the trees are in leaf, the cows are in the fields and the bedraggled groups of D of E students with their massive packs are again tramping across the fields. Sam’s plants are giving a lovely splash of colour as you come into the village, and they are all for sale! Are we right in thinking there are fewer birds around this year? Our impression is that the number of swallows, house martins, robins and sparrows in the village have declined over the last few years. We hope it is just a natural cycle and they will be back again soon.

May 7th saw us casting our votes for the last time at the village hall. A victim of the drive for ever greater economy, we will have to travel to Monyash village hall which will be our local polling station in future. We were discussing what this means with an elderly resident and he told us that before WW2, that was where Sheldon people always voted. He recounted the tale that the Tory Party always sent a very large car up to Sheldon to take their voters to the polls. Tommy Morton, a well know Labour supporter was hurrying to get a lift in the car when Mr Sheldon, who had already claimed his seat, pointed out his affiliation and Tommy was left behind to find his own way to the Polling Station which must be at least 2 miles. Could this actually happen again in the future we wonder?! The village hall as it is now was first used as a Polling Station directly after the War and has remained so for almost 70 years. So another slice of life in Sheldon becomes history and another facility is taken away from us.

Late April however saw a piece of Sheldon life resurrected as a tent was set up outside the hall and we had a table top sale. The wares were as varied and the tables as colourful as the day was beautiful with clear blue skies. People not only indulged in a bit of retail therapy but, like us, took lunch outside, wonderful soup and roll and the most delicious carrot cake as afters. The event raised over £200 to swell the village hall funds. Many thanks to Lindsey who organised the whole thing and her helpers for their enthusiasm in arranging a great day.

The second Cream Tea Day held on May Day Bank Holiday Sunday was another success for ‘the team’. The morning rain caused hearts to sink but the day brightened and there was a steady stream of visitors, including 2 walking groups, enjoying their scones with jam and cream and cups of tea but also buying from the always excellent goodies on the stall. Altogether another £200 was raised – well done everyone!

On the evening of May 11th (the day we were always told to plant runner beans!) the faithful gathered for the bunting evening in the village hall. This has become a very enjoyable annual social event organised by the Sheldon Day Committee to repair old and make new bunting ready for Sheldon Day. With food and drink – not all of the non-alcoholic variety- the work goes with a swing and the excellent results will grace our village in July. Thanks to everyone who took part.

The History Group ‘Bring and Show’ meeting on 15th April encouraged several people to bring some wonderful historical artifacts they have in their possession and also a full documented history of one Sheldon cottage which is truly amazing to have.

As you all know Kath has started a monthly lottery to raise much needed funds to help maintain our beautiful Church. We understand that a few numbers still remain so if you contact Kath you may still be able to take part. The first winner of the £25 prize was Jayne Melland. Congratulations!

Congratulations must also go to William and Alec who again took part in the Buxton Festival of Speech, Music and Drama. William gained first place in the piano trio competition and Alec gained a third place. Alec’s choir – from Great Longstone – also came first in their section. Well done to both!

We also have good news about our resident Bobby, John. Despite having only been a full time Officer for a short period of time, he has just heard that he has been accepted onto the government’s flagship accelerated promotion scheme to become an Inspector within 2 years. This, after several gruelling months of interviews, exams and assessment centres. Congratulations John!

DIARY DATES

Tuesday 2nd June 10.00am
Vicar’s coffee morning at the Cock and Pullet followed by the Church Meeting

Wednesday 10th June 7.30pm
Parish Meeting in village hall

Wednesday 17th June
Sheldon History Group Meeting – to be announced