Saturday 7th October dawned fine but cloudy, and remained dry. Perfect weather for cutting and raking the wildflower areas in the churchyard.
A group of people from the local community assembled at St. Peter’s Church, armed with tools such as strimmers, mowers and secateurs, and set to task. It was rewarding to discover voles, shrews even a lonely frog as the area was cleared for next year’s wildflower meadow.
Marion and Mary brought cups of tea to the “Hay Makers” during well-earned breaks.
A hearty ploughman’s lunch, prepared and served by Mary and Marion, was also enjoyed by the weary workers.
Following lunch, a short Harvest Festival service was held by Reverend Andrew Whitehead. Afterwards everyone headed outside to finish “making hay”.
By the time weary folks headed home, the whole churchyard had been cleared and raked off, including the Avenue of Remembrance.
Many thanks to all involved. Making Hay is a great way to bring the community together in an activity which benefits both the Church and, more importantly, nature.
Special thanks to Andrew, whose trusty tractor took away a trailer full of grass and weeds to a nearby farm, where it will be composted for use next year.
Thanks also to the Community Payback team, who came earlier in the week to begin the task and who visit periodically to help keep the churchyard accessible.
Here’s some “before and after” photos:
Photos: Nigel Boldero and Lorna Wilson
Haveringland Chronicles 