This year’s Open Day was very special in a number of ways: first, as always it engaged the imagination of so many people, involved so much hard work by a dedicated band of villagers; nothing binds our community in such a way, nothing raises money like it does for the church and village hall … and both are central to our social lives.
We had a fantastic day with a gratifying number of guests (raising over £940 on-the-gate). Topped off with the BBQ to end all BBQs. Perfect.
Thank you to all who played a role: gardeners, stallholders, car park attendants, helpers, tea ladies etc etc. Some who were on holiday took great care to make sure they gave all they could -Thank you.
There was great variety in amongst old favourites. Even Keith & Mandy‘s wishing well raised £2.05; the Village Hall’s share of this will pay the electricity bill for half a day; (729 half days to go).
The committee especially thank Alex & Melinda who, in spite of Melinda suffering an awful riding accident on Friday, refused to consider not opening their garden. We all pass on our very best wishes and love for a speedy and complete recovery.
The proceeds were £2,200 and will be split 50:50 church : village hall. It is salutatory to note that this is more than half of the total annual income of the village hall. For reference: 08 was £2,2,00.
As a committee we thank everyone who helped in any way; as the chairman, I particularly thank the committee: Jeremy & Anne, Ann, Sylvie and Maggie. We had several very pleasant and occasionally silly evenings planning this year’s event. We made some firm friends and put in quite a bit of effort – a win-win situation.
It is right that we should celebrate our achievement, (& I celebrate enthusiastically). However, it is only right that everyone understands that we were 2 days away from cancelling Open Day for lack of support. We would then have considered what to do; one option would be to wind up the Village Hall Trust and sell the property. Our guests were gushing in their envious compliments about the village and our community spirit. We urge the village not to sleep walk to disaster.
A Personal Greeting from Nelson Mandela
I am sure that few believed me 2 years ago, when I read out the gracious letter from Prince Charles, regretting that he would be unable to attend open gardens. So I guess that you will also not believe me when I publish this year’s letter.
Dear Mr Williamson
Thank you for your invitation extended to Mr Mandela to attend the Elkstone Village Open Gardens Day.
Mr Mandela will unfortunately not be able to attend the function. As you know, Mr Mandela turned 90 last year and during his birthday he also expressed the wish to now turn his retirement into reality. He will therefore scale down on public appearances significantly, especially when it involves travel.
We trust you will understand his position and we wish Elkstone well.
Sincerely
Ms Thoko Mavuso
Nelson Mandela Foundation
phone +27 (0) 11 728 1000
107 Central Street | Houghton, 2041
Private Bag X 70 000, Houghton, 2041, SA
www.nelsonmandela.org