Playden

Abingworth, New England Lane

• The trees and hedges are beginning to green up now, but they are not hurrying about it. At least it is a bit warmer for the lambs.

• We are getting quite excited about the Playden Weekend. It is all happening on Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th May. In St. Michael’s Church there will be an exhibition of works by local artists and craftspeople who will have many lovely things for sale. Admission is free and donations are very welcome. Refreshments will be available.

• The exhibition is open from 10.30am to 5pm on Saturday; 12.30pm to 4pm on Sunday.

• As well as beautiful things to see, there will be a super concert on the Saturday evening for you to hear. Mr. Ken Roberts is to give a concert of “Music Around the World in 80 Minutes.” As you may remember from previous occasions when he has entertained us, he is a brilliant performer and raconteur. And we have been promised some jazz.

• If you wish to book a ticket, the list is open, or you may prefer to pay on the door. Tickets cost £10 to include light refreshments and a glass of wine or soft drink. Call me on 01797 22 26 15.

• As I suggested last week, Playden Parish Council could not meet on its usual first-Thursday-of-the-month because of the election. The next meeting is to be on Thursday 9th May at 7 pm - NB - for the Parish Assembly and AGM. All parishioners are requested to attend. Come to the Playden W. I. Hall at 7 pm.

• The spring fair in Playden Church was well attended last Saturday. I haven’t yet heard how much was raised for church funds.

*Tomorrow, Saturday May 4, there is to be the fourth Swap Shop organised by Transition Rye. It will be in the St. Mary’s Centre from 10.30 am. Bring along items which are no longer of use to you and collect anything which takes your fancy, FREE. Helpers are needed to set up and clear up.

• There seem to be several organisations trying to help people at home.

• The Independent Living Service - ILS - will fit rails, ramps and grab rails for you. Contact [email protected] or phone 0800 917 4569. There is also help from ARRCC who run a laundry service for the general public. You can fill a large bag with dirty clothes and linen, have it collected, washed, ironed and returned for £10. Contact [email protected] to tell your details.

• The third one which I have come across recently is Rother Responders. This is a team of local Community First Responders, a team of volunteers who have been trained to respond to emergency calls through the 999 system in conjunction with the Ambulance Service. They carry equipment including an automated defibrillator which can make a crucial difference in saving the lives of patients needing emergency treatment. To find out more information, or if you would like to join or sponsor them, please visit www.RotherCFR.co.uk

*The 15th Annual Walk organised by the Rye and Winchelsea Rotary Club is to take place on Sunday 19th May. It starts from Phillips and Stubbs between 9 and 10 am. It is in aid of St. Michael’s Hospice, and the League of Friends of Rye & Winchelsea Memorial Hospital and others. Half of the total each walker raises can be donated to your own nominated charity. All walkers receive a Completion Certificate and various awards will be made. Walk plans and notes will be given on the day.

• To enter e-mail [email protected] or phone 07530 772 000.

• Playden School is in need of an adult to travel with the children on the bus in the afternoons. If you could volunteer to cover Miss Hunter’s maternity leave, please contact the school office.

• It is the first of the Bank Holidays in May this coming Monday.

• The mid-week services continue on Tuesday at 9.30am for Morning Prayer and 3.30pm for Evening Prayer in church.

• The 11am service for the 6th Sunday after Easter will be the Family Service with refreshments to follow, giving you a good chance to chat to your friends.