Bobservation 42: April 2018

Church Matters
I understand that there is a rumour that the Church Commissioners, through the Diocese of Chichester, have instructed the Parochial Church Councils of Downland villages to  take immediate steps to dispose of the church buildings and land in Edburton, Poynings, Pyecombe and the Fulking Village Hall and Chapel. This is with a view to investing the proceeds of the sales in a new, modern building in Newtimber to replace the church there. This will mean a more functional place of worship being available for social activities and will incorporate a fifty seat cinema  as well as an Olympic sized swimming pool and indoor tennis court. With church congregations reducing year by year the Church Commissioners feel that this will redress the reduction and hopefully increase the numbers attending church for whatever reason. There will be a Public meeting at 6pm on Sunday 1 April 2018 to discuss the proposal at a venue to be decided.

Bluebells
Our bluebells at Furzefield should be good this year. Do please remember that all villagers, families and friends are welcome to wander around. Please ring 271 so we know when you are coming. It is important that the paths are respected (single file is best!), if you bring children please make sure they are kept under strict control and sorry; no dogs.

Fulking Fair
Les and Louise Nicholson, of Artisan Bakehouse, who will be bringing their baked goodies to the fair, have just won the ’Sussex Best Eating Experience of the year 2018’. Amber John will be bringing her ponies for pony rides in the field at the back of the Shepherd & Dog which is kindly being  provided by Aidan & Nicole. Allsorts Dog Rescue will be organizing a ‘Fun dog show’ in the middle of the North Town Field. Tina Ware, as the fair musical arranger, has The Shoreham All Stars already lined up, more musical acts available including Fulking village musicians and the Marta Scott dancers opening the proceedings through the village. This will be a really busy fair! Make sure you come on Sunday July 29.Louise Holman needs bottles (not necessarily alcohol) for the Tombola.