The 'David Shirreff' Bird Song Walk
May 2nd 2005

A good turnout despite yet another morning of indifferent weather, a chill breeze heralded the onset of drizzle that gradually turned to a more persistent heavy rain.
For the first time in the history of the walk (begun in 1984) there were no Nightingales in Hoist Covert, let's hope that this is just one of natures natural hiccups. However, the rest of the avian ensemble was in fine voice. The Bittern took centre stage with not only the occasional boom but also performed a superb fly-pass; this perhaps made the day for many of those present.
From the dense reed beds the cut and thrust of the Reed and Sedge warblers 'garry-garry, gurt-gurt' vied with the aggressive shout of the Cettis. Out on the marsh a distant Marsh Harrier swung back and forth on the rising wind whilst a flock of Whimbrel flew high and north on urgent wings; soon the northern fjords will echo to their wild haunting cry.
The hat collection, plus donations from those who did not make it on the day, came to an amazing £150.00. This will be divided equally between Walberswick Church and the SWT/RSPB Dingle Marshes Project.
Young Lucy (chief scribe for the day) announced that we had passed last years total species count so, all things considered, not a bad day after all.

Tony Lancaster

Thank You

I wish to thank everyone in the village who sent me flowers and cards and enquired of my well being whilst I was in hospital. Your caring thoughts were a comfort to Brian and me.

Pauline Payne


Recycling

If anybody has any suggestions for a recycling facility in the village please write to the Parish Council via the Clerk at St Francis, Stocks Lane.


Viv Hunt (Clerk to Council)


A DATE FOR YOUR DIARY

Walberswick's Annual Fete, in aid of the Church and Village Hall, will take place on Saturday 27th August 2005. Full details to follow.
What makes this event so special is the tireless support and enthusiasm of our local community. If you have not previously been involved and would like to offer assistance, either with ideas for stalls or practical help please contact any of the organisers below.
We look forward to hearing from you.

Jacks Morcombe

Vellore Bazaar

The Vellore Bazaar, which was held on the 30th April, raised the grand total of £870.
The committee's thanks go to the many people who ran the stalls, served tea and cakes and to those who supported us by coming to buy.
Half of the money raised will go to help the work of the Vellore Hospital in southern India. During the afternoon we were very pleased to welcome Mr. Richard Smith, Director of the Friends of Vellore, who was able to tell us, at first hand, about the work that is being done there and especially how the staff from the hospital had helped victims of the recent tsunami.
The remaining money will go to help a local charity, Crossroads Care, based in Lowestoft.
Again our thanks,

Elizabeth Leighton


SANDERLINGS THEATRE COMPANY

Inspired by our Newsletter Editor and the copy of the first Newsletter I have penned an account of how we came to present "A Fistful of Mondays".

Julia and I knew we wanted to do a production together and the obvious time was in February 2005, to alternate with the Panto. Well, as with the best-laid plans, the date of the intended show became the end of April!
There was a lot to do: starting with forming a new company. (Thanks to the Trust for their grant.) Julia always knew she wanted to do "A Fistful of Mondays", but some of us needed convincing. Well done Julia for her perseverance. We had to cast, rehearse, coerce helpers, find props, music, lights, and dancers. Luckily we had Chrissie who seemed to come up with everything we needed, from cowboy boots to the dream effect.
Rehearsing at Lilliput saved money on hiring the hall and the odd glass of wine helped to ease the exacting pace set by the directors.
The excellent publicity achieved 2 full houses, so we also opened the doors on Dress Rehearsal night. The production was well received, despite an ambitious in-the-round presentation and, to our delight, local dancers joined in for the finale.
So, Sanderlings is born - and is solvent - despite Julia's rash spending on American flags and cowboy hats!
Look out for the next Panto. Julia and I are delighted to have the chance to direct, as Mark wants a rest. (He is still on the committee and has promised to create wonderful sets). Look out for notices for auditions and requests for helpers so that we may be as successful with our next venture.
A huge thank you to all, including the audience, who made this such a joyous experience.

Val Anderson

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