Christine Jewitt Winter arrived with a vengeance during December. Christmas was a chilly and quiet affair with our normal celebrations curtailed by yet a further lockdown and the withdrawal of the previously planned easing of restrictions with the exception of Christmas day. The wretched virus made it impossible for us to enjoy our usual festivities although we were resplendent with Christmas windows and a multitude of lights to cheer up the dark and wintry nights. There were also some spectacular starry skies to enjoy. We planted a Christmas tree in the garden area and various residents donated decorations. Our lovely vicar, Helen Savage, kindly held a Covid compliant Christmas Eve Carol Service in the churchyard of St Phillip & St James. It was freezing cold however we rallied round and sang enthusiastically if not terribly tunefully. There was a great turnout and it was reassuring to see everyone! We enjoyed mulled wine and mince pies afterwards and all….. at a distance.
Horsley Maurice Holliday National lockdown restrictions have brought about some changes for businesses in the village. On a positive note the antiques centre in Horsley is accepting orders using the internet. Similarly Hearth artists are doing the same and some artists can post work to customers. Check the websites for further information. The construction work continues at a pace at the water treatment works and many units are open at the South East Farm business park. The Hearth cafe is open for take away food and drinks. Please note that the weekday opening times have changed to 9.30am - 2.30pm. Weekends remain as 10am to 3pm. It has produced a new menu to start the year on a high with winter warmers.