IT?WAS with great pleasure that the congregation welcomed back the Arscott Ladies Choir to St Swithin’s on Sunday, June 24.

It was a lovely evening, sun still shining, the big church door, left wide open for the breeze, and a good audience.

Ingrid Bray not only conducted the choir but in between pieces of music, had everyone in stitches with her funny stories and anecdotes; her sense of humour is absolutely brilliant.

The entire choir was brilliant, so friendly and smiling with their singing and harmonies. For those unsure of ladies’ choirs, they went away, understanding why St Swithin’s loves them so much!

As always refreshments were served after the concert, together with wine and soft drinks. A sincere vote of thanks must go to all those who worked so hard in providing the supper.

It was a memorable evening and it is hoped that the ladies will come to entertain again.

On Saturday, June 24, in the afternoon, friends and parishioners were invited to the home of Ann Farbrother to her annual strawberry teas, including beautiful homemade scones, (the recipe was copied out quite a few times!) jam and clotted cream plus bowls of strawberries and cream, tea and coffee.

It was a very hot day but plenty of shaded areas provided in the garden made it all so pleasant, even the tour up the garden to see a bird box that had been vacated by birds after their nesting and residence taken up by a family of bees.

Ann always kindly puts on this event to raise money towards helping arrangers with the expense of flowers for the flower festival which will be at St Swithin’s from July 12 to 15, from 10am to 5pm. St Swithin’s day, which will be on Sunday, July 15, will be celebrated at evensong.

‘St Swithun’s day, if thou dost rain,

For forty days it will remain;

St Swithun’s day, if thou be fair,

For forty days ‘twill rain na mair.’

Also in the evening on the same day, it was off to Launcells Parish Hall for the Wine and Wisdom.

It was great fun, with all the windows wide open, as it was still incredibly hot!

This event was to raise money for the hall’s history room extension and for the children’s playing field. Wine, nibbles, French bread, crackers, cheeses and grapes, also much needed jugs of cold water.

A really amazing raffle with some super prizes and the chance to take home huge bunches of beautiful home grown sweet peas from each table, for a small donation. Well done everyone. Launcells in tune, together.