Newsletter Number 230 - June 2026

Well, I was wrong! In my last Newsletter I said I was confident that the sun would shine on our Open Day this year. Whilst we did see a glimpse of it for a few minutes in the morning, for most of the day we had rain, torrential in the afternoon, accompanied by high wind. One of the Gazebos even became airborne and was damaged beyond repair. Nevertheless, I think it's true to say that the almost 200 folk who came along enjoyed themselves, and, of course, inside the Church it was easy to forget the inclement weather as the floral arrangements were beautiful – a big thank you to the Flower Arrangers. Once again it was lovely to be entertained by Crofton Anne Dale School Choir and The Odd Wednesday Men. As always, Gary's presentation on the history of St. Edmund's Church was enjoyed by many, some for the second time! We were delighted that the Mens Shed braved the rain with their Roller Boules which brought much fun to the day. We didn't quite raise £1000 this year but we were very close and considering the atrocious weather it was a very pleasing result and I would like to thank everyone who helped and supported us.

Our AGM in April was well attended and we were delighted to welcome two new members to our Committee - Ethel Brokenshire and Joan Fieldgate. The remainder of the Committee is unchanged with Edmund Ahern remaining as Vice Chairman and adding Membership Secretary to his role. (If you’re not sure if/when your Membership renewal is due, please email Edmund membership@fococ.co.uk). Sue Selbie continues as Hon.Secretary and Alan King as Hon.Treasurer. As well as Ethel and Joan the committee consists of David Dawson-Taylor, Robin Green, Pat Paget, Derek Titheridge, Keven Ward and Ann Willis. Our Vicar, Richard England and Building Coordinator, Gary Willcocks are Ex-Officio Members. I remain as your Chairman but definitely for a final year!

In May we held a very successful and much enjoyed Quiz Evening for which we thank Derek Titheridge and his friend, Libby for arranging.

Looking ahead now, on Saturday 25^th July at 3pm there will be a Summer Tea Party in the Parish Centre at Holy Rood Church. Tickets at £8 will be available shortly either from me (01329-665164) or the Parish Office (01329-661154).

Once again we have applied for a pitch at the Stubbington Fayre on August Bank Holiday Monday where we plan to be selling jigsaws, jewellery and preserves. Please come along and support FOCOC.

As you know, St. Edmund's is always open between 10am and 12 noon on the 18^th of every month. In September the 18^th falls on a Friday and the committee have decided that on that day we will hold a Coffee Morning in the Church serving not only Coffee/Tea but cake too! Do come along.

The Harvest Festival Service at St. Edmund's this year will be on Sunday 11^th October and we will follow this with Harvest Soup and Sandwiches at the Rotary Wheelhouse, Hill Head on Wednesday 14^th October at 12 noon. More details later.

The year is flying by far too quickly so I hardly dare mention that on Saturday 28^th November we will be holding the annual Yuletide Fayre from 10am to 12 noon at the Parish Centre, further details to follow. At this time I will leave you just to imagine events planned for the following month!!

Just a reminder, not only for our Coffee Morning in September, but also on the 18^th of every month St. Edmund's is open from 10 to 12 noon for visitors and private prayer. Services are held at 09.30 every Sunday; BCP Holy Communion on the 1^stand 3^rd weeks, Morning Service on the 2^nd and 4^th weeks, and Common Worship Holy Communion when there is a fifth Sunday. Tea and coffee are served after the Services on the 2^nd, 4^th and 5^th Sundays.

I hope you all enjoy the rest of the summer which, at the moment at least, appears to have returned.

All good wishes

Sue Johnson

Chairman