Village News – August 2020

From Corfe Castle Parish Council’s July 2020 report:

The Council considered the erection of an agricultural Barn at Lynch
Farmhouse, Kingston. The Council consider the proposed barn to
be too big for the suggested purpose giving regard to the farmland.
They have asked the planning officers to consider this.

Village News – July 2020

From Corfe Castle Parish Council’s June 2020 report:

The Council’s Speed Indicator Device is on order and the
post will soon be installed on East Street near the bottom of
Kingston Hill. The SID will be moved between this post and
the existing post at Castle View.

Village News – April 2020

As you are probably all aware Church services are suspended for the foreseeable future. Other events cancelled are our two concerts David Orr in March and The Mayday Singers in April plus the Coffee and Hot Cross Buns on the lawn on Good Friday morning.

Cancelling events is a blow for us, as it is for a lot of organisations, as we are fundraising for repairs to the porch roof and also basically to keep the church afloat.

With our reserves dwindling we have, reluctantly, switched off the night time floodlights at the church as we feel unable to justify the expense unless we are able to attract some sponsorship either corporate or personal. We need approximately £500 per year to fund the lights. We would be happy to erect a board advertising who is sponsoring the lights either for the year or per month if anyone felt able to contribute even a small amount. I realise we all have more important things than the Church lights to worry about at present but we felt we should explain why the church is in darkness.

We hope the current state of affairs with older people self-isolating and all the difficulties that brings with only be for a short while but should
anyone in Kingston need help or shopping done please contact one of the Dubbra Support Groups run by either Langton or Worth. (I am among the ones told to self-isolate so probably personally should not visit).

Let us hope we all stay healthy during the weeks ahead and pray for a speedy return to normal life.

Doreen Farr, PCC Secretary

Village News – February 2020

Our service at St James’s on Sunday 2 February at 9.30am is a Benefice Service for all the seven parishes of the new St Aldhelm’s Benefice. This will be a special occasion as it is the first time we have all worshipped together and it is hoped that people from all the parishes will come and join us. The Occasional Singers will be in attendance so we will have some wonderful singing to enjoy. Hoping to see you there. Refreshments will be served after the service.

If anyone feels they could spare some time to help clean the brass in the church from time to time please contact me. Any help would be gratefully received.

Doreen Farr, PCC Secretary

Kingston News – September 2019

The second Saturday in September was a lovely day for the Dorset ‘Ride and Stride’ to raise funds for the Dorset Historic Churches Trust. A few of us from St James’ took part and then served refreshments at Kingston to the intrepid walkers that called in. We had 26 people call in plus several tourists who joined us so it was a very nice social occasion and we had a very pleasant day and hopefully raised quite a bit of money. The weekend locally was very busy what with the Nordic Walking Festival, the Marathon and a Cycle Ride plus the Ride and Stride.

We were lucky enough to have been given a grant of £3,000 from the Dorset HCT this year towards the renovation of the stained glass window in the Lady Chapel so felt this was an occasion we should support as their help is much needed in many churches with ongoing maintenance and repairs if we are to preserve these beautiful buildings.

This year, we are not holding our Harvest Lunch at Kingston but are joining with Langton at the Benefice Harvest Supper on 30 September which all are welcome to attend.

The Natalie Klein concert at Kingston at the beginning of September was well attended and enjoyed by all who came. We are hoping to organize more concerts by various musicians next year to make use of the wonderful acoustics in the Church.

Enjoy the Autumn, hopefully, with some good weather now things have quietened down a bit in the area.

Doreen Farr, PCC secretary

Kingston News – June 2019

The repairs and restoration of the stained-glass window in The Lady Chapel have now been completed and it has been returned to its former glory which is a great joy to look at. Many thanks to Dan Humphries and his team for an excellent job done within the time frame quoted. Many thanks to everyone who contributed to the appeal for funds. We are still a bit short of the total needed so if anyone felt able to assist us we would be very grateful.

On Sunday, 21 July Anne and Alan Fry are hosting an Open Garden afternoon with music, light lunches and cream teas (with prosecco if wished) and a few stalls and a raffle at Greystone Court, Kingston from 12 midday until 5pm. There will also be a display of model aircraft flying and a display of vintage cars. Do come along as it should be a very enjoyable afternoon with the profit going to Swanage Stroke Club, Purbeck Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme and Swanage Food Bank. We have music from Harmony Rocks choir, the Eukele group and Karen Grant so it should be a very varied programme. Kingston Church are running a Tombola stall so any prizes for this would be much appreciated.

Our thanks to Belinda and Peter Bell for hosting a Strawberry Cream Tea at Scoles Manor in May which raised just over £400 for church funds. It was well attended despite the weather not being very kind and the magnificent views made up for the lack of sunshine. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the event or helped with it. All we need now is some sunshine for the summer.

Doreen Farr, PCC Secretary

Kingston News – February 2019

We recently had our Quinquennial architect’s inspection of St James’ at Kingston which has highlighted various essential and some desirable repairs. We will undertake the essential repairs and such of the desirable repairs as we can afford which, to be honest, is not many.

One of the beautiful stained glass windows is badly damaged with calcium deposits and we have obtained estimates to have this repaired and also to try to remedy the reason that this happens. The repairs will be in excess of £5,000 for the window. We have applied to various Trusts for funding but, as is customary with these things, we are expected to raise at least half of the money ourselves.

Over the next few months we will be organising some events to raise money for our ‘Window Fund’. If anyone has any ideas or would be willing to hold an event to raise funds or if anyone feels able to give us a donation, which would be very much appreciated, please contact me at window_fund [at] kingstonopc.org.uk replacing [at] with the @ symbol.

We were very pleased to be given a donation last year to enable us to keep the church floodlit for the next year and we express our gratitude to the people concerned.

Doreen Farr, PCC Secretary

Kingston News – November 2018

Our Festival Week at St James’s went very well and in total raised over £1000 for Church funds. It started with a musical afternoon with bell ringing, organ and violin music and singing and also the bell tower was open. The views were much enjoyed by those that went up the tower as were the refreshments. Of great interest was the photographic display of Terry Hardy’s photographs of Kingston church and village; especially poignant this year were the war time photos. Thank you to all involved.

During the week, Peter and Hazel Hartle gave a talk on 30 years of Purbeck Ice cream and it was an eye opener to learn how much was involved in developing what is one of the great business successes in the area. It was enjoyed by those who attended as were the sample ice creams! Our thanks to them for giving us their time.

There was a concert by Harmony Rocks choir on Wednesday which was a lovely selection of music and very much appreciated by a good audience. Our thanks to the choir and their conductor.

The Flower, Craft and Music days were on Saturday and Sunday when, unfortunately, the weather was absolutely atrocious, so much so, that a pedestal arrangement in the porch blew over more than once! It was wonderful to see the Church so alive and buzzing with the crafts, music and the flower displays on the theme ‘The Water of Life’. All the parishes in the new Benefice of St Aldhelm contributed displays and it was great to have them all involved in what was a spectacular display. The music was lovely and the craft displays and demonstrations very interesting and it is amazing how many local, very talented people there are. We finished the event with a ‘Hymns and Pimms’ service which was well attended and very enjoyable. Thank you to everyone involved.

Judy and I would like to thank very sincerely everyone who helped with any of the events in whatever way – you are too numerous to mention you all by name. We greatly appreciated your help and support and it could not have taken place without you. Also we would like to thank our sponsors James Smiths, Albury and Hall and Foleys Garage. I would especially like to thank Judy Forgan for her ideas, enthusiasm and commitment to the project.

We have our Remembrance Day service at 10.45 on Sunday, 11 November and there will be an Advent Service on Sunday, 2 December at 6pm with mulled wine and mince pies to which everyone is invited. Both should be special occasions please come along if you can.

Doreen Farr & Judy Forgan

Kingston Festival

Just a last minute reminder of the various events we have happening in the coming week at Kingston Church:

It starts with a Music event this Sunday afternoon (16th), featuring a fascinating history/photographic display by Terry Hardy, the Tower Bells, Organ Music, soloists, and refreshments. Midweek we have a talk with Purbeck Ice Cream on Tuesday at 2.30pm. Wednesday at 2pm Harmony Rocks will give a concert of well known songs, (no ticket needed just come if you can), then on Saturday and Sunday from 10am – 4pm each day, there will be Floral displays and local crafts people and the whole event will conclude with Hymns and Pimms Songs of Praise which starts at 3.15pm on Sunday 23rd September. Please join us when you can and feel free to invite family, friends and neighbours.

People can park in the designated car park just 100m beyond the Church on the left, or in the lane downhill to the right (by kind permission of Henry Scott).
Hoping we may see you soon,

Judy Forgan

Kingston Festival Week – 16 to 23 September 2018

This year St James’ Church in the village of Kingston  is holding several events during the third week of September, aiming to  bring church and community together.

The week will start on Sunday 16 September with a Quarter Peal of the 10 bells, co-ordinated by Mike Pitman, our Tower Captain,  who will be joined by Bell ringers  from across the area. They will be starting at about 1.30. There will then be  a Music Afternoon from 2.30pm till 4.30pm  in the Church, where people can come and listen to Organ Music played by Roderick Raley while enjoying a relaxing cup of tea and afternoon refreshments.  There will also be an exhibition of photographs by Terry Hardy who lives in the village.  Hopefully we can also offer visits to the tower if weather permits during the afternoon.

On Tuesday 18 September  at 2.30pm we have Peter and Hazel Hartle of  Purbeck Ice Cream   speaking  about their first 30 years of Purbeck Ice Cream. They have been building up their business from their Kingston-based farm at Lower Scoles and  will give a talk about how the well-known brand  first began  and developed over the years. Please do reserve a seat for this event as we need an idea how many are coming  ( judyforgan@hotmail.co.uk )

On Wednesday 19 September  at 2.00pm Harmony Rocks,  a local choir of ladies, will bring a repertoire of popular  classics, under the direction of Annie Campbell.  Tea and cakes will be served during the interval.  Tickets are not essential but you may like to reserve a seat.

On Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 September our third Flowers, Crafts and Music Festival will take place  with arrangements around the theme ‘Water of Life’. The Church will be open for viewing and refreshments from 10am until 4pm on both Saturday and Sunday.  People from across the new Benefice of St Aldhelm have been involved in putting this together, with supporters helping from Kimmeridge, Corfe Castle and Church Knowle, as well as Langton and Worth Matravers. We are very grateful to all who are contributing towards what will be a very special week.

The Festival Week will close with an informal Songs of Praise Service ‘Hymns with Pimms’  from about 3.15pm.

Please come and support some or all of the events,  which help to bring the wider community and church together. There is no charge for admission but hopefully people will give a generous donation towards the Church Funds.

Thanks also to our sponsors Albury and Hall  Estate Agents from Swanage,  Foleys Garage at Harmans Cross and  J. Smith Funeral Directors in Swanage.

Judy Forgan and Doreen Farr

Kingston News – July 2018

Kingston Festival in September will have Crafts, Music Flowers and more so please save the date (16 -23 Sept).

This summer we have had some young performers to delight us at Kingston, firstly the trio from Russia, who came in April and more recently at the PAW concert given by the English Cornett and Sackbutt Ensemble. We had the Benefice Service at St James’ Church in early June and that same afternoon had a lovely Strawberry Cream Tea at Scoles Manor, so kindly hosted by Belinda and Peter Bell. How beautiful to enjoy an English afternoon tea with the most lovely views across the Isle of Purbeck and beyond. Thank you so much for the kind hospitality and also to those people who supported the event as their donations raised £227 for the Church. We ourselves enjoyed our Open Garden Days and were grateful to all who came as we raised £333 for Weldmar Hospicecare as well as £130 for Widows in Ukraine, who are helped by the charity Hope Now.

The Kingston Country Fair for the Air Ambulance will be even bigger this year and held once again at Kingston Courtyard by courtesy of Alan and Ann Fry. The Saturday evening Music event starts at 6pm with a BBQ and support bands, but we are all really looking forward to the special performance by the amazing Fab Beatles – who will perform later on. Having seen them a few times before, in Devon and Somerset, I can really recommend this as a night not to be missed – they will bring all our favourite oldies and look the part too. Tickets are just £10 (07971 764823) or from Doreen (07506235038). Don’t forget Saturday, 7 July!

The next day, 8 July, there will be a whole host of fun activities – Dog show, classic cars, model airplanes, including the Vulcan in action, plenty of stalls, cream teas local hog roast, huge raffle, vintage vehicles, and much more. Just £5 a car with proceeds going to the valued Air Ambulance which serves this area. In case people were wondering, we are having a Family Service 11.15 at St James’ Church that day, led by Revd Tony Edmunds.

There will be Communion with Revd John Staples on 22 July at 11.15. There will be a special Patronal service at 9.30am on Sunday, 29 July at St James’ Church (informal – as it is a 5th Sunday).

It is unlikely that we will manage a fête in the village this year however, please Save the date for a Festival Week in September when we shall be trying to having various events to bring the Church and Community together. We are hoping to hear from local writers, businesses musicians and people who are passionate about their hobby. There will be crafts, flowers, Tower visits and Open Days to bring together people in the area enjoy catching up with others. Details will be released next month via the Dubber, the website and facebook. If you feel you would like to participate in any way please phone Doreen (07506 235038) or Judy (07724 325735) but do put the date in your diaries. Music afternoon with Cream Teas, 16 September, and various events through the week culminating with Open Days and a Celebration Service on Sunday, 23 September. In the meantime – enjoy the summer weather and the beautiful area we live in and share it joyfully with those who only manage to visit for a few days a year.

Judy Forgan

Village News – February 2018

The St. James’ PCC would like to wish Kingston residents and everyone in the Benefice a Happy New Year.

Following the very well attended and much enjoyed Advent Service in December and the Christingle on Christmas Eve we now look forward to the year of 2018 and the challenges it will bring. Many thanks go to Becca Charron for organising the Advent Service and to Sue Ireland plus Peter and Cynthia Buckle for the Christingle. The retired clergy assisting us by covering our services during the Interregnum are proving to be a delight to work with and our grateful thanks go out to all of them.

The Benefice Service on 4 February will be held at Kingston at 10.30am. The occasional singers will be in attendance; their singing adds greatly to the services and it is always a pleasure to listen to them. Please come along to join us if you can and we extend a warm invitation to all Kingston villagers and everyone in the Benefice as a whole. The service will be followed by coffee and refreshments. Hope to see you there.

Doreen Farr

Village News – December 2017

On Sunday, 3 December at 6pm we are again holding an Advent Carol Service at St James’ Church at Kingston. It was a lovely service last year with over 70 people attending and we would like to make this year’s service even better attended. The service is led by Becca Charron and has Advent readings, carols and wonderful music and it is an inspiring way to start the Christmas celebrations. So please come along and join us – we would love to see you. The service is followed by mulled wine and mince pies for everyone to enjoy.

On a more sober note you will no doubt have heard that last month someone stole our ornate lion’s head door handle from St James’! This caused great upset and some inconvenience as we were unable to open the main door. We have since removed the other door handle until we can source a replacement for the stolen one which will be extremely expensive to replace. Two “utility” door handles have been fitted for the time being. How sad that someone could stoop so low as to steal from a church that is left open for the public to enjoy its peaceful, spiritual and uplifting atmosphere.

We would like to wish all attendees of the Church, residents of Kingston and the Benefice as a whole a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May the blessings of Christmas be with you all.

Doreen Farr

Christingle at Kingston

This year’s Christingle Service at Kingston is on 24 December at the usual time of six o’clock. Please let me know if you would like a Christingle orange – by emailing me on susie2ireland@yahoo. co.uk.

Sue Ireland

Village News – November 2017

Most will know that there is to be a further development in the way the two benefices of the Purbeck Hills and the Corfe Valley are organised and work together.

As well as being neighbours we have been, what is technically known as, a group ministry since the late 1970s. This permits incumbents to minister in each of the benefices. The nature of this has varied over the years. lf you speak to people who were around in the 1980s, they will tell you about several joint ventures – a joint mission lead by the Franciscans from Hillfield, for example. lf you dig around in some of our vestry cupboards you will find copies of leaflet about the St. Aldhelm Group; that was the name chosen for the Group. In more recent times, we have worked together in a more background way. I have myself valued working with both Judith and Gaynor and getting to know the churches, both buildings and congregations, of the Purbeck hills.

At the moment formal consultations are taking place about the proposed changes and it is important we allow space for that to happen. All our PCCs, the patrons of the parishes and I are involved as well as others in the deanery and diocese being notified. As you know the proposal is that we become one benefice and so there will be an incumbent based at Corfe Castle and a ‘house for duty’ priest based at Langton looking after the respective parishes as organised at present but working together. An appointment to the post based in the Purbeck Hills’ parishes will be made as soon as possible; although, we cannot at the moment say when this will be.

It is difficult to explain everything in a short article. Do speak to the Churchwardens and PCC members in the Benefice if you have questions and pass on any thoughts or suggestions. Obviously it is a time of change and some uncertainty. However, it is most encouraging that there is a very positive approach in the Purbeck Hills’ parishes.

I hope we can continue with a glass half full (rather than half empty) approach. Whether or not we have ‘Rev’ in front of our name, we all have a part to play. Above all, seeking to be open to God and supporting each other, we can trust God that the life and witness of our Christian communities will continue and flourish.

Ian Jackson
Revd. Ian Jackson, Parish of Corfe Castle

Village News – October 2017

We are having a ‘Spring cleaning morning’ in Kingston church on Monday 3 October starting at 10am, if anyone is interested in coming to help us. Coffee, cake and a warm welcome will be supplied if you wish to join us to polish brass and give the church a bit of TLC. Any help will be much appreciated.

Just reminding you all that our Harvest Service is on Sunday 8 October at 11.15am followed by our Harvest Lunch in the Church. This will be soup and a ploughmans. Please ring me on 480837 if you would like to come. I have had a couple of people telephone but would love to have more.

Looking forward to seeing you on 3 or 8 October or maybe both!

Doreen Farr

Village News – September 2017

Thanks

I missed last month’s Dubber to thank everyone who helped with the Church stalls at the Air Ambulance Fete at Kingston Courtyard. We had a very successful day and raised £180 for Church funds. Thank you to Judy Forgan for her plants and for her help and also to Peter and Cynthia Buckle and Judy Robson for their help on the day. Thank you to everyone who came to our stalls on the day and also a big thank you to Alan and Anne Fry for having our stalls at the fete.

Harvest Service

Advance notice of our Harvest Service which is on Sunday, 8 October at 11.15am at St James’ Church. We are going to have a Harvest Lunch after the service instead of a Harvest Supper. Everyone is welcome and if you are intending to come it would be helpful if you could let us know so we can cater accordingly. Please telephone Doreen on 480837. There is an answerphone if I am unavailable. We look forward to seeing you there.

We are also looking for someone from Kingston to write a piece in the Dubber in place of Gaynor’s column in rotation with someone from Langton and Worth. If anyone out there would like to do this please contact Katie at the office or Doreen on the above phone number.

Doreen Farr

Village News – August 2017

Kingston Notes

Heavens! Ascot and Wimbledon have been and gone and already I’ve noticed the evenings are dark a little earlier than two or three weeks ago. All through the winter I look forward to the spring and summer and then they are here and then they are gone and it’s back to short dim days and iffy weather. I definitely have a thing about sunlight – or maybe daylight and the lack of it – technically called SAD and standing for seasonal affective disorder it certainly makes me feel sad as soon as autumn approaches. To give autumn its due it does have some good points – the colours of the leaves as they change from greens to red and golds and browns, the smell of bonfires and frosty mornings and so on but as its still just about July I’m not going to think about autumn for at least another month or two and concentrate on what’s left of the summer!

When I was little – and that’s quite a long time ago – Encombe Fête was held every other year. I’m not quite sure why – maybe it was an after the war thing. Anyway, all the village got involved and it was quite an event. Daphne Scott opened the house to visitors and encouraged everyone with their stalls etc. by donating to each one and then on the day going round and buying it all back! It was a lovely happy day in idyllic surroundings and the weather co-operated by always being dry and sunny!

A few years ago, George Pitman told me that he had been reading up on Encombe Fête in the 1920s when Eric Scott lived at Encombe and apparently after the fête the lake was lit up and the villagers danced to the village band. It’s all changed rather a lot over the years and the sale of Encombe House meant that the fête has now ended up as Kingston Fête held around the Church – probably not the best place for a fete! Over the years it has got harder and harder to run as people have moved or died or just got older or lost interest.

We were hoping to hold another fête this year but the lack of support generally is making it quite a difficult task! The future of Kingston Church is quite uncertain at the moment but, whatever happens to it, I am pretty sure the building will still need maintaining and repairing and heating and so on and to do that money has to be found each year from various fund raising events! Whether you are a church goer or not it is quite often a useful building with people round about for weddings funerals and christenings!

There have been two weddings this month in the church and also a funeral. George Pitman who lived with his wife Rosemary at the Old Post Office for many years and who was very much involved with the church – and the village generally, died this month. He was a lovely man who for a long time wrote the Kingston Notes for the Dubber and did them much better than anything I could achieve. He always managed to find some personal bits of news about people living in the village and as he had been a headmaster for many years his notes were very well written indeed. He will be very missed not only by his family but by all the people who knew him and loving thoughts go to Rosemary and the family at such a sad time.

On Sunday, the ladies from NADFAS came to the church to talk about the work they had been doing for some years refurbishing the altar frontals and we served teas and Roderick played some music and although all sorts of other things were going on locally quite a nice few people came into the church to have tea and look at the display. Thank you to everyone who helped.

It’s always interesting talking to visitors to the church – one visitor told me that he lived on the Isle of Wight but that his family – the Grant family – were local to the area – in fact one of them had their name on the role of honour in the church. It is so nice that people can trace their families back like this. And finally thank you to Hubert Beavis who phoned to tell me that he can remember picking butterfly orchids for his mother too – rather proves something doesn’t it – that when we were all picking armfuls of the things back they came every year!

And a final finally – this little poem for all the walkers I see walking along the hills not really looking at the amazing views and looking rather grim. It’s called The Rambler and it goes like this:

See the happy walker – he doesn’t give a damn he’s got his compass and his boots, – he’s never in a jam.

See the happy walker – he’s got his haversack it’s filled with useful odds and ends – hanging on his back.

See the happy walker – he’s out in wind and rain he grits his teeth and marches on – he looks like he’s in pain.

See the happy walker – so keen to ramble on he’s forgotten what he’s walking for – Just going, going, gone!

And that’s just what I’m going to do. Happy August

Susan Ireland

Village News – July 2017

Church Stall

We are having a stall in aid of Kingston Church at the Kingston Country Fair Air Ambulance Fête on Sunday, 9 July and are intending to sell Bric-a-Brac, books, plants, etc. to raise funds. If anyone has anything that might sell and wish to donate please contact either Doreen Farr on 07506235038 or Judy Robson on 07541215500 and we will be happy to collect donations.

Also on Sunday, 16 July we are serving cream teas in the Church with accompanying music. Please come along if you are able to. We look forward to welcoming you to the Church.

Doreen Farr

Kingston Notes

Last month’s Kingston Notes were so late being written that I missed the deadline. So, in an effort to break the habit of a lifetime which is being perpetually late for everything, I thought I’d make a start on this quite early in June – it is now the 21st and the notes are due in on Friday, 23rd – what can possibly go wrong?

A friend once told me that being late is graceless. My excuse is that I was born two weeks late and so have been tarred with that late brush for eternity or at least until I depart my graceless existence.

Anyway, Spring rapidly turned into Summer and my naughty escapologist lady cat unexpectedly gave birth to three kittens two weeks ago – all very sweet and mole-like. Besides that, the hot summer weather resulted in sightings of the great white British male in all his bare-chested and often saggy stomached glory. Next it will be the socks and sandal brigade – the British have such great elan.

On a more serious note – the warm weather has encouraged a few random butterflies into my garden which made me quite excited. Years ago, my parents garden was covered in all types of butterfly but now even seeing one is turning into a rare event. A bit like all the orchids that used to grow abundantly in the woods at Kingston; they are dying out I think. When I was a child, I am afraid to say, my brothers and I used to pick large bunches and take them home for my mother, the butterfly orchids smelt and looked beautiful and despite all our pickings they came back each year even more profusely. Butterfly orchids, bee orchids, those mauve ones and some other green variety – not great with names! Last year I found two butterfly orchids and this year so far I have seen not one. I wonder if it’s the climate, the change in the countryside itself, etc., etc. that has made them virtually die out or just that everyone stopped picking them. Answers on a postcard, please.

Last month’s request for news of the cuckoo resulted in one actual postcard – thank you Mrs Cole – who told me she had heard the cuckoo twice at Arne this year. My request for any bits of Kingston news resulted in nil so consequently I have waffled!

The date for the showing of the refurbished altar frontals is now set for 16 July in the Church with music, by Roderick, and teas and the ladies of NADFAS who undertook the work. They will be bringing some photos to show how the work progressed etc.; it would be lovely if a few people came and looked and chatted with them (I’m not sure of the times but probably about 1pm till 5pm).

Another date for the diary is 2 September when we will be holding a small Fête in the Church grounds to raise funds for the repairs to the Church and for a local charity probably linked to helping people with cancer. You know what is coming next; I will surprise you and leave asking for help until next month and also don’t forget the Air Ambulance Summer Fayre which is on 9 July; The Air Ambulance does such great work so lots of support please from everyone to raise funds for them.

On a more serious note – I am sure you will all have heard by now that Gaynor, our Vicar, will be leaving us to go and work in Wales in August. I am not entirely sure what will happen next but there is a meeting next week and after that we will know a little more. Gaynor arrived just in time to meet my mother a few times before her death and in the space of six years took three funeral services for my family (my mother, father and husband) which she did beautifully. Thank you, Gaynor.

Finally, ‘get well soon’ and a virtual hug from me, for Diane Cole who has been in the wars recently and is feeling a little bit miserable, here is one of my mum’s favourite little poems to cheer you up; it always made her laugh.

Untitled

He’d paid his debt to society; his sentence was over at last,

He collected his meagre belongings, and said goodbye to his past,

The bars clanged shut behind him as he stepped through the prison door,

“I’m free” he shouted “I’m free” – a little boy said “I’m four”!

Susan Ireland

Village News – December 2016

Kingston Christmas Party

We will be holding a Christmas Party/get-together for the village this year at the Scott Arms – probably the week before Christmas – when the details/date have been sorted a poster will be put in the Scott Arms and leaflets through letter boxes! However, would be good to know if anyone would be interested in coming in advance – usual sort of thing – quiz, raffle, food etc – unless anyone has any brilliant ideas for something exciting and new – in which case please get in touch with Sue or Peter – who will be waiting with bated breath – for some sort of response from anyone! Be great to have some fresh input/help with this event!

Telephone: 481372 (Susan Ireland) and 480212 (Peter Buckle)

Christingle Oranges

If any child would like an orange at the Christingle Service, Kingston this year which will be held on Christmas Eve could you please get in touch with Susan or Peter on the numbers above – thanks.

Sue Ireland

Village News – October 2016

The recent Flower, Craft and Music Festival held at St James’ Church, Kingston was a great success. It started on Friday night with a concert featuring The Military Wives’ Choir from Bovington, Woodwind Trio Zephyrae and the solioist Rosie Horn. All were a pleasure to listen to, so talented, and the impromptu rendition of Panis Angelicus from Rosie Horn with the woodwind trio was delightful.

The Flower and Craft Festival was on Saturday and Sunday and was much enjoyed by all who attended. The church looked wonderful with all the flower arrangements and crafts. There was also music at times during the weekend from Zephyhrae, Roderick Raley on the organ with Felicity Smith on the violin, The Swanage Recorder Group and proceedings were brought to a close by Harmony Rocks Choir on Sunday afternoon. Many thanks to all the performers and also to Claire who is musical director of both The Military Wives and Harmony Rocks.

We would like to thank everyone who helped to make the event a success – the musicians, the flower arrangers and the people who displayed and demonstrated their crafts, the stallholders and the ladies who made cakes and everyone who helped with the refreshments, the setting up and the clearing up afterwards. We would also like to thank Albury and Hall Estate Agents for sponsoring and erecting advertising signs and James Smiths Funeral Directors for sponsoring the programmes. I hope we have remembered to thank everyone for giving up their time to help. We could not have run the event without you all.

Judy Forgan & Doreen Farr

Village News – September 2016

Kingston News

We would like to remind everyone about the Flower, Craft and Music Festival in September at St James’. There is a concert at 7pm on Friday, 16 September with the Bovington Military Wives Choir and the Woodwind Trio Zephyrae. Entry is free with a retiring collecting. The Flower and Crafts with music is on Saturday, 17 and Sunday, 18 September from 10am till 5pm. There are various musical recitals over the two days and Harmony Rocks choir will be singing at 3.30pm on Sunday. If anyone is able to help with serving the refreshments of ploughman’s, cream teas and cakes please telephone Doreen on 07506235038 or 480837. We look forward to seeing you there for what should be a good ‘Celebration of Life and Achievements’.

Chairs

Following a comment in the visitors book at St James’ Church from a Corfe Castle resident, I feel I must respond. These chairs are not what we would ideally have liked but we had to work within very strict guidelines set by the Diocese. We need stackable chairs to enable the Church to be multi-functional in order to try to ensure its survival and to fund the maintenance costs of the beautiful building which are considerable. After months of negotiation with the Diocese we complied with what the Chancellor would accept and we could afford. The PCC have spent several years fundraising and thanks to the success of the events held and the generosity of individual donors we raised enough to buy seventy new chairs. We have, in the last few days, received a further generous donation which should enable us to buy a further fifteen chairs.

Fête

The Fête in August was blessed with a beautiful day and was very successful with a lovely atmosphere with music and many stalls and games. Thanks to Sue and Peter and everyone who helped to make the day such a success. Without these helpers it would not be possible to hold such events.

Doreen Farr

KINGSTON FETE

Just a quick thank you to everyone who helped with the Fête – setting it all up – helping on the day with the stalls, games, teas etc. to the Scott Arms for the bar and bbq and Purbeck ice creams – to the musicians who came and played so well (and amazingly didn’t want paying). Having hoped for a dry day and got one, we were a bit down on the number of children this year – the beach being a better option – but apart from that it all went ok-ish. I will post what we made in the next month’s Dubber. Thanks again – big gold stars all round.

Susan Ireland

FRED

Fred Keevil lived in Kingston for about 30 years. He was originally a Fashion Photographer, and later on in his life took to photographing County shows and riding events. He had various dogs which were a great love of his. His little Terrier, Mouse, was probably his favourite. He and a friend use to puppy walk hound puppies for the local hunt. Lately he had become very lonely and reclusive, although still driving his car, going shopping and managing to look after himself. It became obvious early in June that he was no longer able to care for himself and was taken to Dorchester Hospital where he died few weeks later.

Greta Hardy

Village News – August 2016

Preparations are underway for the 2016 Flower, Craft and Music Festival and we can now confirm that the event will begin with a concert evening on Friday, 16 September with the Military Wives Choir from Bovington followed by the Woodwind Trio Zephyrae from Wareham. This will be an opportunity to appreciate local musicians performing at St James’ Church, well-known for its acoustic enhancement, whilst surrounded with the beauty of flowers. It will be a special evening in every way and a reminder of God’s goodness to us as the Festival theme is Celebration of Life and Achievements. It will be great to see the newly acquired chairs in use at the concert after several years of fundraising and negotiation with Salisbury Diocese. A huge thank you to those who have contributed in the past towards this fund and to PCC members who helped to get them installed.

The church will be open all weekend 17-18 September and there will be a range of local crafts people demonstrating their work and skills – spinning, felt, pottery, stone carving, woodcraft and other arts and crafts. Delicious homemade cakes will be available on Saturday and Sunday from 10am until 5pm. We are grateful to our sponsors Albury and Hall, who are helping with the publicity. This year there will also be more for children including face painting.

If you are part of a local organisation, business or charity and would like to promote it at the festival, through a flower arrangement, we have space for a few more, similarly, if you would like to celebrate someone’s life through photos and a flower tribute, we would be pleased to hear from you. Please contact Doreen on 480837 or Judy on 07724325735 as soon as possible to book your space (no charge but please bring your own flowers and any accessories) or you can email: judyforgan@hotmail.co.uk

Have a good summer and see you all at the Kingston Fête on Saturday, 13 August.

Judy & Doreen

Swanworth Quarry – extension and increased landfill

Mineral Extraction & Landfill Waste – latest update

The 35-acre proposed extension of Swanworth Quarry consultation period continues. Local comments are still needed.

If no comments are received, they will presume we are all happy with this quarry extension and increased Waste Landfill.

Important Changes

The site remains the same size but now includes a “possible tunnel” over The Purbeck Way?

It now extends further North into the field adjacent to the B3069, where it will be fully visible to the local community.

Now includes increased Waste Landfill of the present site up to 400,000 tonnes: this will be transported through Corfe Castle and up Kingston Hill.

If approved the new site would give rise to additional traffic through the Parish for an extended period.

This AONB site (one of only 33 in the country) will be compromised for a finite aggregate resource.

Dates for your diary

11 July – 7pm at Corfe Town Hall. Corfe Castle Parish Council Meeting with Trevor Badley – the Principal Planning Officer of DCC, will discuss these proposals and answer questions.

21 July – all comments and objections to be sent to DCC.

There are three ways to do this:

THIS IS A WAKE UP CALL.

The plans will go to the Minister of State in Spring 2017.

Residents of Kingston

Village News – June 2016

Kingston Fete 2016

This year we are holding our Fête on 13 August. It will be in the grounds of Kingston Church – not the most ideal spot in some ways – but perfect in others. It is, after all, a church fête and visitors will have access to the bell tower, be able to listen to the wonderful organ and, in the unlikely event of bad weather (!), there is shelter inside the church.

There was no fête last year due to various reasons – ill health etc, etc – so we are hoping to make 2016 a success to encourage us to carry on with this traditional event. Kingston village has lost a lot of its actual residents over the past few years but there are quite a few people who have very kind volunteering for ‘stuff’ so we are hoping we can actually rustle up enough people to help.

So – all of this preamble is actually an early request for anyone who could help set-up before the event, run a village stall, help with a game, donate the usual fête-type things etc etc to get in touch with either Peter or me so we have a rough idea what sort of support, if any, we might expect. Also any­one wanting to have their own stall – anything that would fit in with a traditional village fête – should get in touch; there will be a small charge payable in advance to secure a spot. We would also welcome any bright ideas for something new to do on the afternoon – bearing in mind it is a church fête – memories of my ill-advised booking of a team of belly-danc­ers springs to mind.

As I am sure you will immediately forget the date and the requests there will be another reminder in the July Dub­ber as well. I know it’s a bit of a pain giving up a Saturday in August to help at something prone to be a rather damp and soggy affair but it is only ONE day… well one afternoon to be precise and we would be eternally grateful for your support. Please contact either Peter Buckle (480212) or Susan Ireland (481372) or susie2ireland@yahoo.co.uk.

Susan Ireland

Village News – June 2016

Father’s Day Cream Teas

This month, we have the first Music afternoon with Cream Teas on Sunday, 19 June. Why not treat Dad to a lovely afternoon in the Purbeck Hills? We can offer spec­tacular views from the Tower, homemade cakes or a cream tea on the lawns, or listening to relaxing organ music. There may also be a fresh display about the church architecture and stained glass windows. Don’t miss it come between 2pm and 4.30pm.

Flowers, Crafts, Music Festival

Thank you to those who have already offered to demon­strate their skills at the Flowers, Craft and Music event which takes place on 16 & 17 September. The theme ‘Celebrating Life and Achievements’ enables us to offer a wide display of flower displays. There will also be some exciting ones based on the Brazil Paralympics which will be taking place around that time. Please contact Doreen Farr or Judy Forgan, if you would like to participate in any way, or promote your local cause through a floral display (480837 or doreen@farr988.orangehome; 481629 or judyforgan@hotmail.co.uk). This is an economical way to advertise your group or business across the Purbeck Community. It can also can be for any age – from children’s groups to charities, or even a some flowers to celebrate the life of someone dear to you. There will hopefully be an additional evening event as a preview evening – with the Military Wives Choir from RAC Boving­ton, followed by light refreshments and a chance to social­ise and enjoy the wonderful acoustics at St James’ Church, while appreciating the local crafts and flowers. On the Sun­day afternoon, another local choir, Harmony Rocks will be performing as the Festival draws to a close.

Kingston Country Courtyard Fair

Now in its third year, the Fair, in aid of Air Ambulance, on Sunday, 3 July is another event not to be missed. Even bigger, with classic cars, steam engines, dog show with agility, live music, arena events and lots for all the family – bouncy castles, face paints, games, local produce, hog roast and homemade refreshments… also an evening music event – see website for full details. If you are interested in running a stall, there is still space – contact Ann Tiller on ann.tiller@talktalk.net as soon as possible.

Judy Forgan

Heavenly Foods Festival

The lovely Church of St James at the top of Kingston Hill will be hosting a new festival this year, one which celebrates ‘ Heavenly Foods’ in the form of a combined Flowers and Craft Festival, at which you will also be able to enjoy live music at certain times of the day.

The event which runs from Saturday 17 – Monday 19 September is open to the public from 10 am – 5 pm each day and is free of charge. We hope to have the bell tower open, for people to enjoy the splendid views over Purbeck, and at certain times you can enjoy hearing the amazing set of 10 bells.

This will be one of our main fundraising events of 2016, so please come and support it, bring your friends, families and neighbours and enjoy the special surroundings whilst savouring refreshments on the lawn with the best views in Purbeck. ‘Save the Date’ as they say!

Getting Involved

Would you like to be involved in this event? Spaces are limited so please return your booking form early. The event was very popular last year and we anticipate being oversubscribed so please let me know during May/June if you wish to book a place. You may be involved in various ways either with craft or music.

A. Floral/Foliage Contribution For this you may promote/represent your organisation by using a flower/foliage display either as a pedestal arrangement or other container. We shall be using the entrance area, font, and choir stall and altar also the window arches and window sills for floral arrangements. The overall theme will be ‘Celebrating Life’ we would encourage you to select your subject from the list and include relevant items in the display. We would ask you to provide an A5 or A4 laminated notice with your group’s name. There is no charge, but it would be your responsibility to provide all flowers, containers and accessories. Displays will be listed in the visitors programme.

B. Craft Demonstrations We would like local crafts people to offer to attend and demonstrate their craft on either the Saturday or Sunday. This will have to take place outside, so you will need to provide a small gazebo if possible. We are hoping for a cross section of crafts – stonework, metalwork, wood, pottery and ceramic, fabric and art work. You will need to reserve a place in advance so that we can set aside an area. There is no charge for this if you are not selling items, however we would ask that you must have public liability insurance and take all precautions necessary for health and safety.

C. Craft Sales We have just a few spaces for craft sales on each day as space is very limited. For this there will be a charge of £10 a day for a 6ft table space. We can accept no responsibility for selling and you will need to staff your own sales. Please indicate which day you would prefer (Sat, Sun or £20 for both) when you send your cheque in June. It is recommended you provide a gazebo and table if outside.

Please select A B or C and return to me and I will forward the appropriate booking form. Please forward this to others who may be interested locally.

Contact judyforgan@hotmail.co.uk

Thank you for your support.

Judy Forgan

Village News – December 2015

As I write, we haven’t actually reached Christmas yet, however, I feel it is appropriate to pen a few thank you notes to all who helped in any way in arranging the amazing West Gallery Carol Concert by the lovely Ridgeway Singers and Band. What an awe-inspiring afternoon we had at Kingston under the direction of Tim Laycock and Phil Humphries- with lovely Dorset readings and unusual instruments (such as the Serpent) to enhance the event. The Church was packed to capacity, with a very friendly atmosphere, and people had travelled quite some distance. Thank you Robin and team, for enabling such a memorable evening, for so many.

We have just had our Village Carol Service – which quadrupled our congregation … so much so, that we had to move from the choir stalls into the main church. We welcomed a couple from London who are planning to marry at Kingston, and other visitors, as well as quite a few local people. Lovely to see our Church well supported and a huge ‘Thank You’ to Simon Phillips for leading the service. Much appreciated by all.

Before finishing, I’ll offer a word of encouragement to Mike Pitman and his team of bell ringers; some walkers who had been staying in a local B&B, wanted to visit a church, and came to St James’ Church, Kingston because they could hear the bells chiming to call us to worship. They were very complimentary and enjoyed joining the Christmas Carol Service. I was also asked by Jane Young to mention that her daughter Emily, who got married 2 years ago at Kingston, is now a proud mum of a lovely little boy, born about 8 weeks ago. I’m sure we all congratulate the ‘Young’ family on this lovely news.

Although at Kingston, we were unable to cope with the increasing manpower demands of the Christmas Tree Festival, we hear that two or three of the music contributions, who took part this year, are keen to do further concerts in Kingston Church during the warmer months. So please watch this space when Spring and Summer approach. The sheer number of people who visited the Festival in Swanage this year meant that even a much larger team of helpers at Emmanuel and the larger building were at times fully stretched!

I’ll conclude by wishing you all the very best for 2016, and hopefully, somebody else in future, will try to with provide the Dubber with some Kingston News (we miss you George!).

Judy Forgan

Village News – October 2015

Moving on …

Twenty five years ago we moved into South Street in Kingston. Towards the end of the road was Aeolia House. At the time, we knew no one in the village. A few days later, there was a tap on our door and Cynthia asked if we would like to join in the Village Christmas Party. We were of course delighted to accept this introduction to the village. As the years rolled by we got used to a tap on our door, our two dogs getting very excited and a visit from Peter. He would call in frequently on his way to visit others, to work at the church on various projects, and perhaps just have a cup of tea. Cynthia would sometimes come with him and we would put the world to rights between us.

The Village Fete, Harvest Supper and Christmas Party would have been poorer without their help and loyalty. As well as storing a lot of the equipment. Chairs and tables etc. they were always there doing their bit.

These loyal Kingston Villagers have now decided the time has come for them to move on. They will be sadly missed, but fortunately they will not be far away as their new home is in Norden, just down the road. Hopefully, they will still be able to join us for village activities in the future.

Peter and Cynthia, we wish you every happiness in your lovely new home. Homer & Rowan will not understand why they don’t hear your footsteps going by now. It always made their day as it did ours when you tapped on our door.

Greta & Terry Hardy

Flowers, Crafts & Music – 19/20 September

Flowers, Crafts and Music Festival – Sat 19th – Sun 20th September

Woodcraft – glass – pottery – flowers – bells – music – stonework – spinning – lace & many more

The lovely Church of St James at the top of Kingston Hill will be hosting a new festival this year, one which celebrates ‘ Heavenly Foods’ in the form of a combined Flowers and Craft Festival , at which you will also be able to enjoy live music at certain times of the day. The event is open to the public from 10am until 5pm on Saturday 19th September and Sunday 20th September and is free of charge. We hope to have the bell tower open both days, for people to enjoy the splendid views over Purbeck, and at certain times you can enjoy hearing the amazing set of 10 bells.

  • From 10am to 5pm – Tower will also be open
  • Music from Ninebarrow Duo, Zephyrae Woodwind Trio, on Saturday
  • Organ and Violin solos and Harmony Rocks Choir on Sunday
  • Also a Quarter Peal of our 10 lovely bells at 12.30

This will be our major fund raiser of 2015 in the absence of the Fete and Christmas Tree Festival, so please come and support it, bring your friends, families and neighbours and enjoy the special surroundings whilst savouring refreshments on the lawn with the best views in Purbeck. There will be local crafts, including glassware, stonework, woodwork, fabric and many more interesting things to see and may be try.

Judy Forgan

Village News – September 2015

Flower, Craft & Music Festival

The lovely Church of St James at the top of Kingston Hill will be hosting a new festival this year, one which celebrates ‘ Heavenly Foods’ in the form of a combined Flowers and Craft Festival, at which you will also be able to enjoy live music at various times of the day. The event is open to the public from 10am until 5pm on Saturday, 19 September and Sunday, 20 September and is free of charge. We hope to have the bell tower open both days, for people to enjoy the splendid views over Purbeck, and at certain times you can enjoy hearing the amazing set of 10 bells.This will be our major fund raiser of 2015 in the absence of the Fête and Christmas Tree Festival, so please come and support it, bring your friends, families and neighbours and enjoy the special surroundings whilst savouring refreshments on the lawn with the best views in Purbeck.

Harvest Festival

The following week on Sunday, 27 September the St James’ Church will have its Annual Harvest Festival at 11.15am with the Harvest Supper on the following night.

Village News – August 2015

June and July have rolled by and quite a roller coaster time – For St James’ Church and those associated with Kingston, it has been very sad, losing our long serving Churchwarden, David Scott, whose ancestor, Lord Eldon founded the Church. Our thoughts are with David’s family at this time. He was such a well-known, kindly man, a true gentleman and he leaves a big gap in the local community. The Church was full to overflowing in July as people said their goodbyes and heard fond tributes of the huge contribution he has made through his lifetime across the local area.

Recently also we have seen the passing of dear Cyril Garvey, husband of Brenda, and our heartfelt sympathy is also with her at this time. Thankfully there have been several weddings which bring joy to village and we wish each of the couples a long and happy marriage.

The village is struggling this year in many ways with arranging bigger events, so regrettably there will be no fête this August. There is insufficient support to take on such an event this summer. The Christmas Tree Festival also can no longer continue at Kingston with insufficient helpers for such a big event. In the light of this, we are trying to fund raise in different ways and would like to attempt a new event in September, but we do need local people to be involved in helping to achieve this.

Please consider whether you can offer to participate in any way with the Flowers Crafts and Music event. If so, please see details about the planned Festival and get in touch. If not, at least try to encourage someone you know and pass on information to those who might not have heard about it (the Dubber only covers the villages). The regular fundraisers (Roderick, Peter, Cynthia, Doreen, Mike P, Felicity) and others have done three recent events and raised nearly £900, through Cream Teas, Music afternoons, opening the Tower and running a few stalls at the Air Ambulance Day. We have been grateful to all the other regular supporters like Robin and Myra, Sue Ing, Margaret, George and Rosemary and various friends from Worth and Langton. Have a good summer.

Don’t forget there is a website for Kingston www.kingstonopc.org.ukso have a browse sometime.

Judy Forgan

Last Reminder:

Flowers, Crafts and Music Festival

St James’ Church, Kingston

Saturday 19 & Sunday 20 September.

Do you want to be involved?

We are still in need of a few more offers of floral arrangements, and firm commitments from others, for the event to take place. I was hoping to have local organisations & businesses promoting their group (provide an A4 notice, with the flowers). The overall theme is ‘Foods from the Bible’ – so each arrangement will hopefully have some focus on items selected from the list. Eg Bread, Wine, Olives, Milk, Honey, spices, dates, oil, etc. but please do contact me by email – see below to confirm. There is still space for 2 -3 craft demonstrations if anyone else would like to offer their skills for either the Saturday or the Sunday (no charge if demonstrating). Alternatively if you want to sell crafts you can book a table for one of the two days or both, at a cost of £10 a day. Again, please contact me for the booking form. If you are part of a music group, or happy to support the event for a session, we would welcome any offers for Saturday afternoon, or Sunday morning. Finally we have a small band of regular helpers but would also appreciate any offers with serving teas and coffees for a couple of hours on either day. For any of the above please speak to Judy Forgan (481629 or 07724 325 735) or preferably email her on judyforgan@hotmail.co.uk

Please do not delay as we need to know definite contributions by 14 August or the event may risk being cancelled.

Judy Forgan

Village News – June 2015

all news courtesy of Judy Forgan

In May the Church looked beautiful for Travis and Paula’s wedding and also a stunning concert was held in the evening that same day given a combined choir under direction of Tim Crosley. We are very grateful to all who contributed and boosted the coffers at Kingston. Our thanks also to Belinda and Peter Bell for hosting the lovely Strawberry Tea and all who came to support the event.

Cream Teas – Sunday 21 June

This month we will be offering live music and cream teas on Sunday, 21 June between 2pm and 4.30pm so do come and enjoy a peaceful and relaxing afternoon with some wonderful views.

Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance Day – Sunday 28 June

At the end of the month we have the ‘Kingston Country Fair’ coming up on Sunday, 28 June in aid of the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, in the field next to Kingston Courtyard; there will be something for everyone, live music, cream teas, stalls, ferret racing, classic cars, vintage tractors, model aircraft, arena events and fairground rides. Come early and have a hog roast and be part of South Dorset’s big Day Out. It starts at 11am and runs though til 5pm.

Services

It was encouraging to have a good service on Ascension Day and I’ve been informed that the singers were delighted to have organ accompaniment by somebody related to the founder of the Church. We have the usual two services this month : Family Service 11.15am on 14 June and then Holy Communion on 28 June at 11.15am

Flowers, crafts & music event at St James’ – 19-20 September

Plans have started for this September event, see separate article below for how to participate. It will be something new for St James’ Church, but we need local people to get in touch soon. So whether you enjoy flowers, crafts or music or belong to a local club, charity or organisation which wants to be represented, please contact me by email (judyforgan@hotmail.co.uk) and I’ll forward the details and booking form to you. Space may be limited so do not delay.

Have a good month hopefully, blessed with warm sunshine and just occasional showers to water the crops and gardens.

Judy Forgan

More about the flowers, crafts & music event

This event is on 19-20 September from 10am-5pm. Would you like to be involved in this event? Spaces are limited so please return your booking form early. The event is instead of the usual Christmas Tree Festival and we anticipate being oversubscribed so please let me know during June if you wish to book a place.

You may be involved in various ways:-
A – Floral/Foliage Contribution
B – Craft Demonstration
C – Craft Sales

A) Floral/Foliage Contribution

For this you may promote/represent your organisation by using a flower/foliage display either as a pedestal arrangement or other container. We shall be using the entrance area, font, and choir stall and altar also the window arches and window sills for floral arrangements. The overall theme will be ‘Heavenly Foods and Flowers’ we would encourage you to select your Fruit, Veg, dairy product, etc from the list and include the item in the display. For example, a café might choose CREAM so this could have a flower arrangement sitting on window area, height approx 1m and could incorporate a china cup and saucer, with a cream tea: A children’s group or family might select HONEY and could make some little bees to suspend over an arrangement which incorporates a pot of honey, or you might have some pictures or a model beehive – or stand the arrangement on an actual beehive or beehive tray or include a beeswax candle. We would ask you to provide an A5 or A4 laminated notice with your group’s name. There is no charge, but it would be your responsibility to provide all flowers, containers and accessories.

B) Craft Demonstrations

We would like local crafts people to offer to attend and demonstrate their craft on either the Saturday or Sunday. This will have to take place outside, so you will need to provide a small gazebo if possible. We are hoping for a cross section of crafts – stonework, metalwork, wood, pottery and ceramic, fabric and art work. You will need to reserve a place in advance so that we can set aside an area. There is no charge for this if you are not selling items, however we would ask that you must have public liability insurance and take all precautions necessary for health and safety.

C) Craft Sales

We have just a few spaces for craft sales on each day as space is very limited. For this there will be a charge of £10 a day for a 6ft table space. We can accept no responsibility for selling and you will need to staff your own sales. Please indicate which day you would prefer (Sat, Sun or £20 for both) when you send your cheque in June. It is recommended you provide a gazebo and table if outside.

Please select A B or C and return to me and I will forward the appropriate booking form. Please forward this to others who may be interested locally.

Contact details:- Judy Forgan, Upper Downs, Valley Road, Swanage BH19 3DZ
Tel 481629 or by mob 07724 325735 – email is simplest judyforgan@hotmail.co.uk

Thank you for your support.

Judy Forgan

Village News – December 2013

As I write, we are getting ready for the Christmas Tree Festival, hoping we can fit all the trees into St James’ Church. I would like to thank all those who so kindly offered to help, whether on the refreshments, the decorating of trees or the wide range of music presentations. I’ll let you know the final amount that was given to Julia’s House in the January edition, but we hope it will exceed our £1000 gift of last year. The children’s hospice in Broadstone is such a worthy cause and helps many families.

Last month some very moving tributes were paid by the family of Brian Collins at his funeral service. Brian had grown up in the village as a boy and served for some years in the Merchant Navy. More recently he was living in Wareham.

Services in December

This month we have planned the following Christmas Services. There are Advent Carols and lighting of the Advent Candle ‘A Light in the Darkness’, at 3.30pm on 1 December, as the Festival draws to a close. There will be a Benefice Service for the Patronal Festival of St Nicholas on Sunday, 8 December, 10.30am at Worth Church. At Kingston we will have Favourite Carols at the Informal Service at 11.15am on Sunday, 15 December, and the Village Carol Service will be on Sunday, 22 December with Rev Gaynor leading, instead of Holy Communion. On Christmas Eve our Christingle Service will be held at 6pm in St James’ and at 10pm we shall have our ‘Midnight Communion’ later that day. On Sunday 29  there is no service at Kingston as we have a 9.45am Benefice Service at St George’s.

Bells

Our thanks to Mike Pitman and team for the lovely bellringing recently. There will be a special peal (10am til 1pm if all goes well) to celebrate Christmas on Friday, 27 December.

Sue and Peter will be in touch about the Christmas Party as soon as we have a date, so keep your ears open – I hope they remember to tell Father Christmas when the party is!

Our sincere wishes for a happy, healthy and meaningful Christmas, best wishes for 2014.

Judy Forgan PCC Secretary,  St James’ Church, Kingston

Village News – November 2013

Harvest Celebrations help provide livestock for poor & hampers for food bank

We were privileged to host the lovely concert by Natalie Clein and friends early in October and it was  great that the church was full on a Sunday morning! Our Harvest week  began with the Harvest Festival Family Service on  led by Revd Ted Pratt,  who reminded us of how important it is to thank  and appreciate God for His constant provision, not just once a year, but  continually. The Kingston Harvest Supper was well supported and we welcomed a few new faces, as well as raising enough money on the auction of fresh produce, to purchase a donkey and some chickens for needy families in developing countries. These versatile  animals, alongside cows and other livestock, can be provided  because of local generosity  after the harvest service at Putlake Farm. The Benefice also contributed dried and tinned non-perishable foods to the Swanage Food Bank. ( see more about this elsewhere in Dubber). Our thanks go to Sue Ireland,  Simon and the Scott Arms team, Peter and Cynthia and for making it such a pleasant evening for us all and to Simon Phillips who worked so hard on the Raffle and Auction.

Weddings and Bells

On 5th October, Stacey and Anthony were married at Kingston, and our best wishes  go with them for a long and happy marriage. Mike Pitman and bellringing team have been very busy as there have been 5 weddings on consecutive Saturdays. We have also had some visiting ringers on Thursday evenings, while their own tower underwent rewiring. On 10th November, there will be a Quarter Peal in memory of loved ones, for Remembrance Sunday, in the afternoon. Perhaps this is a good time to remind everyone that the morning service on Remembrance Day will start at the earlier time of 10.55am. Please do make an effort to come.

Christmas Tree Festival  28th Nov – 1st Dec

Quite a few trees have been sponsored already, from across the area, but we would welcome a few more from Kingston people – how about a few family trees?  There is plenty of fun to be had in planning and decorating  as well as viewing.  Please invite friends and colleagues, along we don’t want anyone to miss out. Once again we are hoping to give a substantial donation to the Children’s Hospice, Julia’s House, in Broadstone, whilst at the same time raising awareness of the chair fund, started some years ago by Margaret Harris, as will soon need to replace the church chairs. Once  decisions are made, the PCC will be seeking sponsorship for new chairs, either by companies or individuals, perhaps in memory of someone or a special event. Somebody  has kindly already offered to contribute funds for a complete row! At the Festival we shall be catering for several hundred people over 4 days so I would be pleased to receive offers of help either by phoning on 01929 481629, or email judyforgan@hotmail.co.uk. For open times and concert details please see the full advert. This year we have a wide range of music during the day and are privileged to have TWO lovely choirs, on the Saturday evening  for a very full evening of local talent. The event will end with a short informal Advent service with carol singing amongst the trees at 3.15pm on Dec 1st.  Please spread the word.

Judy Forgan PCC Secretary,  St James’ Church, Kingston

Village News – October 2013

Summer Fete

Despite the appalling weather we still managed to make over £2200 and the PCC would like to thank everyone who helped in any way and also to local people who came along and supported us.

This month we have our Harvest Festival on Sunday, 13 October at 11.15am and Informal Harvest Praise the following week on Sunday, 20 October at 11.15am. The Harvest Supper is on Monday, 14 October in the evening 7pm for 7.30pm but please confirm with Peter Buckle or Sue Ireland if you would like to come.

Christmas Tree Festival

A very special event will be held at St James’ Church, Kingston, at the end of November, as we start to prepare for Christmas. We invite local organisations of all ages, businesses and groups or even families, from the villages of Langton and Worth Matravers, Kingston, Harmans Cross, Corfe Castle, Church Knowle and Kimmeridge, to participate in Purbeck Christmas Tree Festival. We hope to have a wide range of groups represented, each bringing their own unique style of decoration, which could be an opportunity to publicise your presence to the wider community.

We plan to use real trees which will be ‘sponsored’ by your group, during the event, (for approximately £15-25, depending on size, to cover costs) and it will become yours after the event. We anticipate providing all the necessary lights, but the group will need to bring all the other decorations, together with a stand to hold the tree upright. It will be a very sociable community event and lots of fun assembling and decorating our individual trees. It is not a competition as they will all be wonderful. In turn we anticipate an amazing sight in this beautiful church, sometimes regarded as the ‘Cathedral of Purbeck’, to prepare us for the joy of Christmas. We would in turn like to share this lovely seasonal experience with a much wider audience and will publicise it in the local towns of Swanage and Wareham and beyond. For the moment though we hope the trees will all be decorated by the people of our villages…. And then, for the last weekend of November (28,29,30) and on Sunday, 1 December the Festival will be open to visitors far and wide. Musicians and Singers who may like to contribute please email the Festival Organiser, Judy Forgan.

Although Christmas seems a long way off, we need to know how many trees are needed and ask that you contact us beforehand if you wish to participate. Please phone for further details and application form on 481197/481629/481034. We look forward to hearing from you.

Application Forms also available at Spar Shop- Moonfleet, Corfe  PO, Langton PO, or you may request one by emailing judyforgan@hotmail.co.uk Don’t delay – space may be limited.

Judy Forgan

Village News – September 2013

Thanks for Support

Well the summer has nearly gone and it seems like only yesterday we were getting ready for tourists to arrive. As we ‘missed’ the deadline last month, I would like to begin by thanking people who were involved with various recent events.

We are indebted to those who arrange events to help the PCC at St James’ Church, Kingston. Thank you Robin and Myra for coordinating the July concert by Dorchester’s Occasional Singers. Also thanks to Tim Rose, one of our bell ringers who arranged a lovely hand bell concert, on 3 August. The four young people played unique compositions and Tim gave an interesting and varied insight to their music. The evening raised £208, half of which will be to help sustain the ‘Tower Fund’.

Kingston Fete

Huge thanks are due to Peter, Cynthia and Sue for pulling it all together, to David for all the signage, and Greta and friends for organising the lovely Dog Show. Thanks also to all who contributed in any way on a very wet, blowy day, setting up, dismantling, collecting bits and pieces, making cakes, running stalls, the bar and BBQ, with everyone working so hard to make the day happen. The band of helpers, especially those outside, willingly kept going to the end. The takings naturally were down considerably, but we are very grateful to all who supported the annual fête, which has now raised approximately £1900.

Concert

Natalie Clein – Forthcoming Concert – Sunday, 6 October at noon – coffee from 11.30am

This year’s visit by Natalie Clein has been publicised by PAW, so please see their website for more details, but do note it is a Coffee Concert, with refreshments served from 11.30am and the concert will begin at 12 noon. Email: info@purbeckartweeks.co.uk

Services and Weddings

We have several weddings at St James’ Church in September and wish each of the couples a very special blessing as they start a long and happy marriage. Also little Daisy was baptised in August and there will be another baptism on 22 September. Services will follow the usual pattern except for a Benefice Open Air Harvest Service with pets, on the fifth Sunday, 29 Sept 10.30am. (therefore no Matins at Kingston on 29 September)

Looking Ahead

Advance notice of Christmas Tree Festival 2013 – 28,29,30 Nov and 1 Dec

For those who need to plan well in advance, like music groups, schools and children’s groups, such as the Scouts, Cubs, Rainbows etc and other organisations who plan a programme of events a term in advance, here are a few details for 2013 Festival. It will be held at St James’ Church, starting on Thursday at 10am, and run for four days 10 til 4pm finishing on Sunday, 1 December with a short Advent Service and carols at 3.45pm. We are looking forward to a concert at 7.30pm on Saturday, 30 Nov arranged jointly with Canzonetta and The May Day Singers. If any other music groups would like to participate during the Christmas Tree Festival, please email on judyforgan@hotmail.co.uk. The first booking- a 6’ tree- has been already been made, as it is only 12 weeks away! Do not delay as space may be limited. Full details next month.

Judy Forgan, Kingston PCC

Village News – August 2013

Kingston Village Fete

The Fete is at St James’ Church on Saturday, 17 August from 2pm to 5pm.

There will be lots of stalls and Village Games – homemade cakes a speciality and our Grand Book Stall. Win a prize in our Raffle and most importantly, bring your dog to join in our Fun Dog Show. There are classes for all shapes and sizes of dogs, and a special Best Child Handler Class. There will be rosettes to three places and some Specials.

If you have any items for the stalls please contact the Stall Holder and cakes will be much appreciated for the Cake Stall.

Stalls

Books: Honor Vass; Bottles: Angela Lardener; Bric-a-Brac: via Diane Cole; Cakes: Mary Haysom;

Raffle: Simon Philips; Tombola: Sue Ireland; Toys: Fiona Wake-Walker; Good quality clothes: Sue Ireland

Greta Hardy

Village News – July 2013

Kingston Fete

It is now only a few weeks away to the Fete on 17 August. Items are still required for all of the stalls. Please contact the stallholders, if you have any items for the Fete. Cakes will also be appreciated for the cake stall.

Stalls

Books: Honor Vass; Bottles: Angela Lardener; Bric-a-Brac: via Diane Cole; Cakes: Mary Haysom;

Raffle: Simon Philips; Tombola: Sue Ireland; Toys: Fiona Wake-Walker; Good quality clothes: Sue Ireland

Dog Show

Remember to bring your dog to the Fête this year and join in our fun dog show. There are classes for puppies, prettiest, handsomest and rescued dogs. Fun classes and a best child handler class with rosettes for all winners.

Anyone willing to help or if you have any bric-a-brac to store, please contact Peter.

Terry Hardy

 

News from Kingston

Firstly, I would like to thank Belinda and Peter Bell for so kindly hosting the afternoon at Scoles Manor which raised in excess of £450. We were very fortunate with the weather at the end of May, hopefully it will settle again soon (as I write it feels more like a gloomy Autumn day).

Sadly Kingston has lost some well-loved characters recently: All passed away relatively close together during the end of May and early June. Four special men, all closely associated to the farming world on the Encombe Estate and around the Kingston area, who during their earlier life would have worked hard, within a few miles of each other. Firstly, we lost John Cole, so sadly missed by his family, then Gerald Batten, who contributed so much to the village and Estate, and within a few days, his former colleague Gordon Gibbs, for many years Farm Manager at Encombe also died. Recently, we were sorry to hear of Fred Hunt’s death. He also had worked for many years on Afflington Farm and used to live at the Lookout, so would have known Gerald, Gordon and John through their work. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to all their families.

As the summer is quickly passing we are now counting the weeks until this year’s Fête. Please, please let Peter Buckle know if you can help in any way at all in the days leading up to the big day (Saturday 17 August), whether putting up signs, gazebos, helping to serve teas, run stalls, parking, plants, face painting, cakes, providing raffle prizes, whatever. If you have any local family members why not encourage them to use their skills too. Also, tell all your friends and families from further away to come along and enjoy a lovely traditional village fête. This is our main fundraiser so let’s make it a lot of fun for everyone – new ideas always welcome… Start spreading the word.

In case you get this early – let’s just mention the concert due 6pm on Sunday, 30 June which will be taking place at St James’ Church – This is a special day also for Glen Bower!

The main forthcoming events to note are both to be held in the evening – Saturday, 27 July we welcome the Occasional Singers at Kingston Church giving their concert at 7.30pm. The following week on Saturday, 3 August at 7.30pm we look forward to Tim Rose and friends who will be giving a lovely rendition with handbells and other musical interludes – Come early for a summer evening complete with Pimms! Our thanks in advance to those organising events as all contributions go towards helping with Church upkeep. Without all these vital efforts it would be almost impossible to keep the church in such good order. There are plenty of positive comments in the visitors’ book from tourists about our lovely building… and village, so let’s hope we can keep this going.

To finish on a happy note, I wish Holly Hupfield and Ian Sizer a really amazing day as they celebrate their wedding on 20 July – followed by a long and happy marriage. What a lovely couple!

Judy Forgan, PCC St James Kingston

Village News – June 2013

Last month we were all saddened at the news of John Cole’s death and our thoughts are with Diane, Jeremy, Matthew, Sarah and all the family. A very moving tribute to John was given by his family at the funeral and reminded us all of what a kind, caring and gentle person he was. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him. In the same week, Helen, Davril’s daughter, and Roger were married and made a delightful couple. Visitors came from far and wide, even as far as New Zealand, to share in the happy event. At the beginning of May, of course, the Hermitage Ensemble gave a wonderful collection of unaccompanied songs, both in Russian and in English, and their four powerful voices sounded more like a choir of 12.

At the end of June we have another concert planned, and will welcome Christchurch Priory Choir on Sunday, 30 June at 6pm. Please note the earlier time and encourage friends to support the evening. We wait with anticipation to hear more about the film Inspector Jury, which has been produced in various locations across the Purbeck area, but it may only be shown in Germany. Hopefully the shotgun scene didn’t disturb the village too much, or the runaway car! Our thanks to those who supported the Open afternoon when bell ringers from across southern England, successfully attempted a three-hour peal of 10 bells. Also thanks to Roderick, Felicity and Mike for making the event possible. As I write, Belinda Bell and family will be busy preparing for the Strawberry tea event, thank you for your lovely hospitality at Scoles Manor.

Our next PCC meeting will be held on Monday, 17 June and I’m sure Peter Buckle and Sue Ireland will be very happy to receive any offers of help towards this year’s fete which will take place on Saturday, 17 August. Please let them know if you can participate or contribute in any way. As they say, many hands make light work, so let’s all do our part and make it a special community TEAM event. Together Everyone Achieves More.

Judy Forgan, PCC Secretary

Villlage News – May 2013

Bells of St. James

There will be a three-hour peal of Bells at St James Church, on afternoon of Sunday, 5 May 2-4.30pm. Come and enjoy organ music inside (with cup of tea and cake) and also the deep sounds of the 10 bells as they are rung by a visiting group of bell ringers.

Anyone interested in learning to ring can meet our tower captain, Mike Pitman, and find out more about the skill.

Judy Forgan

Village News – April 2013

Already we are into the fourth month of 2013, where does time go! Hopefully you had a pleasant Easter and were able to participate in some of the local events, such as the Palm Sunday procession. The newly formed Dorset Chamber Choir presented a timely Lenten Music evening, entitled Music for Holy Week March, under the leadership of David Everett.

Our very best wishes to Edward and Catherine who will be married at St James’ Church on Easter Saturday. We also wish Roger, Helen and all their family well as they make final preparations for their big day, early in May.

During the coming year, we have eight weddings booked as Kingston Church – it is a very popular venue. The bells always sound lovely, thanks to Mike Pitman and his team of ringers. He has asked if we can try to recruit one or two new people who may be interested in learning to ring the Kingston bells. If this could be you, please have a chat with Mike. On Sunday, 5 May, some visiting ringers are attempting a three-hour peal at Kingston, so we are planning to offer tea and cakes, and Roderick will be playing the organ, why not make a note in your diaries – for a pleasant Bank Holiday Sunday afternoon?

Our Annual Parish Church Meeting (APCM) is to take place soon; All Kingston Residents are welcome and any who have an interest in the wider church and village activities are welcome to join us – 7pm in the Church on Thursday, 25 April. This year the electoral roll needs to be renewed so please ensure you have returned your Application Form to Greta Hardy. If you haven’t received one and wish to be on the Church Electoral Roll, please contact Greta.

We also welcome those who live outside the parish and particularly appreciative of the number of people who come to Kingston and support in many ways, flowers, refreshments, music…. In fact we depend heavily on those from outside the village to keep things going.

It is essential that we all connect up a bit more and build up a stronger network of friends. May be someone in village will come up with a social event, at which we could just enjoy each other’s company – a skittles/ bowling night somewhere local? A quiz night? A bring and share supper one Saturday? (in other words a time for friendship and laughter, rather than …..fundraising!) If you would be up for something like that, chat to others, neighbours, friends, and I’m sure something will grow from it – big oak trees come from little acorns. Start small and sincere, then the sense of community will grow from it.

On Monday, 29 April we have the first of our ‘Summer’ music events – hopefully it will be a spectacular night of Russian Orthodox and Folk Music. The Hermitage Ensemble from St Petersburg, are touring the UK and are well worth hearing, so please spread the word and invite friends along.

Sunday Services this month will follow the usual pattern (see services page 4) ‘Taste and see that the Lord is Good; Blessed are those who take refuge in Him’ … ‘Come my children listen to me’… ‘The Lord is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit’. These are personal verses of reassurance from Psalm 34 (v 8, v11, v18).

Judy Forgan

Village News – March 2013

Sunday Lunches

Please note that as 10 March is Mothering Sunday, there will be no Church Group Lunch this month. We hope to resume with our ‘Friendship Lunches’ at various Purbeck Eateries, in April.

Margaret & Davril

Kingston News

This month sees the departure of Rosemary and George Pitman– a huge thank you from us all for the many years of faithful support in so many parts of village life. We wish them both every happiness in their new home in Swanage and hope we will still see them from time to time. To mark the occasion, please do join us for a Bring and Share Lunch at the Church 12.15pm on Sunday, 3 March.

Electoral Roll Update

Now, for any residents, here’s another date for Kingston diaries. Our annual meeting (APCM) is on Thursday, 25 April, a few weeks hence. However, this year, we do need all those on the electoral roll to complete an application form beforehand. Greta Hardy is our electoral roll officer, so, even if not a regular at St James’ Church, if you wish to stay on or join the electoral roll, please ensure that you get your form from Greta and return it to her. This is your village church so do please support it.

March Services

On Sunday, 10 March we have our Mothering Sunday Service at 11.30am, and welcome all ages to our Family Service that day – a warm-hearted service with a difference. Our usual Informal Service takes place the following week, at which people are invited to choose their favourite hymns 11.15am on 17 March.

An event not to be missed as we move towards Easter, will be the BENEFICE SERVICE for PALM Sunday, 24  Mearch. We anticipate the outdoor procession with Palm branches waving and a donkey leading up the hill from the Scott Arms Car park (assemble before 10.30am) to St. James’ Church. Please note the earlier time! Easter Sunday Service is at 11.15am.

This will remind us of Jesus as he rode a donkey into Jerusalem – He knew what was ahead of him, nobody else did at that time, but the story unfolded over Holy Week, and continues today. We can revisit various events across our area, to discover why things happened as they did and realise that it was all part of God’s plan for his people.

Did you know that the prophets predicted Jesus’ death on a cross, about 500 years before it all took place? It was no unfortunate accident; Isaiah wrote in Ch 53 ‘’He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows… wounded for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities, upon him was the chastisement which brought us peace… with his stripes we are healed… an offering for sin…. led like a lamb to the slaughter.” Jesus could have chosen not to accept this suffering, but he knew in his heart that this was why he came to earth. God’s son, took the punishment for the sins of humanity in order to bring forgiveness and peace for all who trust in him. During Holy Week, followers remember what Jesus went through, but the bigger picture has to include Jesus overcoming death. Easter celebrates the fact that Jesus rose from the dead, met with friends, even ate with them on the beach, and was seen by over 500 people in the weeks after his crucifixion. That is why there will be Sunrise services (complete with cooked fish !) early Easter Morning, both at St Aldhelm’s Chapel, on Swanage Beach and on the Purbeck Hills.

Jesus’ words to Doubting Thomas, convinced me some years ago as they were read out one Easter Morning… I was like Thomas, couldn’t grasp it, full of doubt, and Jesus gently said ‘STOP DOUBTING and BELIEVE’. If you struggle with the Easter mystery the best few paragraphs of the Bible are found in John Ch 20…. But don’t leave out the last few verses. Wishing you all a Happy, Healthy and Hopeful Easter.

Judy Forgan, PCC Secretary

Village News – February 2013

News from Chingestone Abbas

Having just returned from a fascinating talk by Reg Saville about Kingston, I was surprised to discover some interesting facts about the village. It was lovely to hear about the origins of the unusual cottages and hard to believe that the original road from Corfe didn’t follow Kingston Hill as we know it, but came along West Street, Corfe Castle across what is now the Common, up towards Blashenwell and through the woods.

Did you know the original village settlement was in the field behind the old school, as the Swanage road (track probably ) followed the ridge so didn’t have a big bend near the Kingston Courtyard? Also there used to be a sail and rope factory on the track towards the sea and a bakery in the Lane (but perhaps not at the same time). What surprised me most was the fact that the Parish of Chingeston (Kingston) originally included the land around Corfe and Langton Maltravers, as it became known.

St James’

The Church of St James, commissioned by the 3rd Earl of Eldon, had already been started when he commanded his architect, George Edmund Street, to include an additional turret. Also it seems when first used, there were (red) padded chairs, as it was then a private chapel. (Until hearing that, I thought the current wooden seats were the original ones). Many other details are featured in the book which will soon be available – and I’m sure it will be of real interest to Kingston residents (it will also contain illustrations).

It is far safer to read Reg Saville’s history than rely on my recollections. Hopefully, there will be more details next time on how to get hold of the book. By the way, in the Church there is a very well presented booklet (£1) for locals and visitors to St James, kindly written and illustrated by Terry Hardy. There is also a large bound copy which Terry produced, which includes many of the photos used in the History Exhibition.

Memories

It is too easy to forget how much things change. If you do have any special memories about Kingston, please do let Terry know: As a little girl, I can remember dressing up for the last children’s party held in the old school or school house, though I wasn’t old enough to attend there. I still remember my 10 years at The Lookout, especially in 1963 when the blizzard hit and the top road was filled with snow drifts – for weeks it was like travelling along a snow tunnel to get to school at St George’s. I think the snow stayed on the hills for about three months, from Boxing Day 1962 till March 1963.

Spring Clean

Now, back to the present and our plans for the future. We are hoping to have a good Spring Clean at St James’ Church 10am on Monday, 11 February. If anyone is able to join us we would welcome an extra pair if hands, even for just an hour. We are very grateful to Fred, our regular cleaner, but as we all know, the place is big, high and we also want to tackle some of the brass to have the place looking lovely for the first wedding in March.

There are 6 weddings at Kingston this year. If you are free, we would love you to join us and we will have the coffee pot ready! At least it is a pleasant temperature there with our new storage heaters working well.

Judy Forgan, PCC Secretary

Village News – January 2013

Firstly, I want to offer a huge thank you to all of those who contributed in any way to the Purbeck Christmas Tree Festival, especially to all those who sponsored and decorated the trees, also to the kind people who gave their time to prepare the Church and serve the refreshments, from right across the Benefice and beyond.

Also we had some beautiful music contributions which added to the special atmosphere ranging from visiting hand bell ringers, as well as various singing groups and soloists. This included the Local Vocals, St George’s School Choir, Roni Merison, Roderick Rayley, Felicity Smith, the May Day Singers, Isle of Purbeck Arts Club Choir and Canzonetta, who gave a lovely festive concert amid the trees, truly a memorable experience.

However, I now want to thank all those who visited and were so generous with their donations; we were thrilled to find that the event, even after expenses, raised nearly £2000 pounds, enabling us to pass on £1000 to Julia’s House and perhaps start to look at replacing some of the ageing chairs in the Church. Martin Edwards, Chief Executive of the local children’s hospice, gave a very moving talk about the difficulties that families face and how the work of Julia’s House supports families and very sick children. So thank you all for your support of this very worthy cause.

Our thanks also go to The Scott Arms for hosting the Christmas Party and also all who helped with the Christingle Service this year.

Now that Christmas is behind us it is time to be looking ahead and mindful of any changes we need to make ourselves, in our own lives. Each new year brings fresh challenges (or should we say opportunities) as things never stay quite the same. One thing that won’t be the same for those in Kingston is the big gap that will be left in the village community when dear George and Rosemary Pitman leave.

They have both been such stalwarts in Kingston and always so available to people. Often, we don’t miss something or someone until they are no longer about. Please don’t let this be the case with George and Rosemary. Let’s really appreciate them now, but at the same time realise that we will be needing willing people to replace their vital role in Kingston.

I don’t live in Kingston, but I know I will miss all the ‘help’ that is given on a regular basis. Please begin to think of how, as an individual, you may be able to help fill this gap. (for example who will do their Dubber deliveries, when they go?)

New year – new beginnings– new desires – new me – (new diet?) How many expectations do we impose on ourselves at this time? Often we try too hard for it to be realistic. So as we move into 2013, perhaps it is a time to reflect on and appreciate all our blessings first and then begin to ‘ treasure up these things and ponder them in our heart’ ( just as Mary did after having baby Jesus).

Having done that, we could then seek God’s will for our lives in 2013…. Just a simple quiet prayer like.. ….Thank you heavenly Father, for all the special things in my life (for example, family, friends, home, ) now Lord, what do you want me to try in 2013? Then don’t be afraid to see what He has in mind. He will see us through, for sure.

Best wishes for a very happy, healthy and satisfying New Year.

Judy Forgan

1914: December: Parish Magazine

Vicar: Arthur Napier

Church Services

I hope to have the usual Lantern Services on the first three Wednesdays in Advent, namely – December 2nd, 9th and 16th, at 7 p.m.

There will be no Mid-day Service of Communion on the third Sunday of the month, but two Celebrations on Christmas morning at 8 and 11. The collections on this day will be made for the Church of England Society for Waif and Stray Children.

Confirmation

The Lord Bishop of the Diocese held a Confirmation Service at Corfe Castle on Thursday, November 26th, at 3 o’clock. Three candidates were presented from Kingston: George Caines, Seymour Tatchell and Lillian Allen.

O.H.M.S

We have now, I am proud to say, twelve (in addition to E. J. Collins, at present a prisoner of war) connected directly or indirectly with our village who are serving with the Colours.

May God protect them and enable them to be a credit to their King, their Country and their village home:

William Cooper            Fred Bullen

Walter Hunt                  Robert Grant

James Medd                 Jesse Marsh

Robert Dorey                George Davis

Jack Caines                  Alan Travers

Parish Almanacs

These Almanacs for the New Year can be had after any of the Lantern Services in December.

Baptism

Nov. 15.            Mary Geraldine de Courcy Cooper

1914: November: Parish Magazine

Vicar: Arthur Napier

Our monthly collection, taken on October 25th, amounted to the sum of £3 3s. 0d. The Rev. A. C. Nickol pleaded the cause of Foreign Missions. He is the Secretary for the Church Missionary Society. Next month, November 29th (Advent Sunday) we shall have the Rev. H. Macknight once more with us to ask for our collection towards the Missions to Seamen; but, as last year, he will preach at Morning Service only.

Band of Mercy

The annual competition, in which last year our Kingston Band of Mercy was so successful, took place on Wednesday, October 14th. The names of those who have entered are: May Speck, Lillian Allen, Winnie Munden, Eva Speck, Elizabeth Fricker, Annie Travers, Annie Hunt; Edward Travers, Ralph Hunt and Albert Fricker. We all had tea after School at Mrs. Bartlett’s and went thence to the Schoolroom again for essay-writing. The result may be looked for in the early part of the New Year.

Parish Bounds

I have been here for three years, and have only just discovered that what I thought was a part of my parish is not so. I refer to Hill Bottom; I have hitherto been given to understand that the cottages on the right-hand side (as one goes towards Chapman’s Pool) and the old coastguard cottages belonged to Kingston, but on investigation of the Worth Tithe Map, I find that all these cottages, together with those on the left-hand side, are in the Parish of Worth. The only difference that this discovery will make will be that I shall cease my periodical visitation of these cottages, and (in the New Year) my issue to them of the Parish Magazine, but I shall retain in the future for the dwellers in the cottages there the same interest and affection that I have had for them in the past.

Club Room

Our excellent Club Room is now open and in use. It is another sign of Lord Eldon’s generosity. He has given us the Room and the billiard table, a handsome present, and, as time goes on, we shall appreciate it more and more. Thanks to Mr. Candy’s interest in pressing matters on, we were able to make our first evening’s use of it on Monday, October 19th.

 

1914: October: Parish Magazine

Vicar: Arthur Napier

There are but few remarks to be made in this month’s Magazine, since everything that might be of interest at ordinary times seems to sink into insignificance in the face of this tremendous war.

The visit from the Rev. A. Lombardini was, I understand, greatly appreciated; as I felt sure, when I invited him, that it would be. I may say also that he, for his part, seems to have thoroughly enjoyed himself here.

The Festival of Thanksgiving for the sage ingathering of Harvest is due to be observed on September 27th. I will leave space for the insertion of the amount collected on behalf of the Bournemouth Hospital. £5 5s. 0d.

I cannot definitely state the date on which the Reading Room will be opened, but I hope the necessary furniture and fittings will be complete about the middle of October.

Baptisms

Aug. 30.            George Frederick William Cooper

Sep. 27.            Frederick Edward John Collins

 

1914: September: Parish Magazine

Vicar: Arthur Napier

National Relief Fund

In hearty response to H.R.H. the Prince of Wales appeal that all churches and chapels should make a collection to the above fund, Kingston Church gave the largest offering which has been made by the congregation. The generous sum, £11 14s. 6d., was forwarded to Buckingham Palice on Monday, August 17th.

National Defence Society

The above offering, which was a special effort made upon an unique occasion of course substantially interfered with the usual monthly collection made on the following Sunday, August 23rd; but even so, we managed to give the Rev. F. Lombardini the sum of £2 17s. at the end of the day, after he had opened our eyes to the cause which he so eloquently pleaded at the Evening Service on that day.

The War

You will forgive me if I seem to pass by the one subject which is on our lips and in our hearts at this time; but truly I feel that there is nothing which I can in so short a space helpfully add to that which I am gradually counselling you from the pulpit.

On Sunday, August 16th, we used the full service appointed for the Church on behalf of the King’s Naval and Military forces.

Inspector’s Report

The Diocesan Inspector, the Rev. J. W. Coulter, made his annual visit and examination of the Kingston School in religious knowledge on July 30th, and afterwards sent the following most satisfactory report:

This School has had many difficulties to contend against during the year, having been closed three times for illness. In spite of this the religious knowledge is very good throughout. The teaching is most carefully given and the tone is excellent.

(Signed)     F.W. Coulter      Diocesan Inspector

Rifle Club Notes

Our rifle season closed on Saturday, August 1st, which by kind permission of Mr. Candy was allowed as a half-holiday for the purpose. The weather left much to be desired, but the shooting was not greatly interfered with by the rain. Appended is a list of prize-winners, who received their rewards from Mrs. Guise at 7.30 the same evening, to the accompaniment of a pleasant programme of music by the Band.

George Coombes, the cup and 10s.              229

Walter Beck, 8s.                                               227

Walter Dorey, 6s.                                            220

Jesse Gale, 4s.                                                   219

Thomas Joyce, Bell medal                             217

George Langtree, Roberts’ medal               211

Leonard Jeffrey, 2s.                                       211

George Davis, Express medal                       208

Charles Orchard, Daily Telegraph certificate

and S.M.R.C. Medal                              203

Arthur Travers, Daily Mail certificate      200

Baptism

Aug 16.             Alice Vincent

1914: August: Parish Magazine

Vicar: Arthur Napier

Rifle Notes

Our shooting season is drawing to a close. Saturday, August 1st, is the day fixed for the final shoot for the Cup, and we have had a very pleasant series of practices. Scarcely one wet day throughout, very enjoyable meetings, and a distinct improvement in the individual shooting. The following have been successful in obtaining the S.M.R.C. badges for proficiency in the three classes:

Class A

  1. Coombes     371

Class B

  1. Coombes    360
  2. Dorey           358
  3. Langtree     351
  4. Joyce            351
  5. Beck              350

Class C

  1. Travers       345
  2. Langtree    343
  3. Coombes    341
  4. Joyce           338
  5. Orchard     336
  6. J. Gale        334
  7. Davis           334
  8. Dorey          331
  9. J.T. Light   331
  10. Hooper       331

An alteration

I am going to change the monthly collection (August 23rd) to a special object, viz., the National Society, which, in view of the Parliamentary invasion of the Church, we are asked to support. We shall know more about this Society on the Sunday mentioned, as we are to have a special preacher sent to us at one of the Services, morning or evening.

Baptisms

 (Privately)

 June 29.            Edward Howard Stevens

,,     ,,               May Howard Stevens

Burials

July 3.                 Edward Howard Stevens

July 18.               May Howard Stevens

1914: June: Parish Magazine

Vicar: Arthur Napier

Collections

The May Collection for the Church of England Temperance Society reached the sum of £3 1s., which Mr. Scott, the Diocesan Secretary, took to help forward the general fund of the Society. The next offertory will be made on Sunday, June 28th, for the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Church Finance Scheme

We have, I am glad to say, a good response to the Bishop’s appeal for support to his great scheme; in all, about 20 tickets have been returned up to date, and the envelopes have been issued to the contributors. These will now put the envelopes containing the amount promised, into the box provided for the purpose at the end of the Church.

Trinity Sunday

June 7th, on which Sunday I expect to be away from home, the Services will be conducted by the Rev. T. Russell-Wright. I think that all who were present at the Services, this time last year, enjoyed the excellent discourses by Mr. Russell-Wright, and I hope a good congregation will be present to welcome him.

1914: May: Parish Magazine

Vicar: Arthur Napier

Vestry Meeting

Held on Tuesday, April 14th, about 25 parishioners present. Chief points considered were as follows:

  1. The appointment of Sidesmen to collect and count the monthly offertory, at Morning and Evening Service.
  2. To adopt a scheme similar to that in use at Wareham, in response to the Bishop’s urgent appeal re Church Finance. First, a card will be sent to each Church-family to be signed and returned by those who are willing to take part in the scheme, stating the amount they are prepared to give (say, for example, 1d. per month). Upon the return of these cards, the Secretary will issue so many envelopes, which in the case of the monthly contributor would be brought once a month (in the case of a yearly contributor, once a year), and dropped into a box in the Church, this box to be cleared after each Sunday evening’s service.
  3. To adopt a suggestion that the hymn during the communion of the people at Choral Celebrations be discontinued.
  4. The question of the right to use the North and South aisles of the Church was brought forward; and after discussion it was ascertained that it was Lord Eldon’s express wish that the North aisle should be for the use of the young men, and the South aisle for the young women and children: as this is so, there is no more to be said on the matter except to ask those concerned to respect his Lordship’s wishes.
  5. The following appointments were made:

Mr. Hughes, Sidesman

Mr. Joyce, Sidesman

Mr. Medd, Sidesman

Mr. Seymour, Sidesman

Mr. F. Hunt, Sidesman

Mr. L. Jeffery, Secretary for Church Finance

N.B. – In our Parish we are so situated that we have no need to appoint Churchwardens as other parishes do, the wardenship of the Church being entirely in the hands of Lord Eldon and Mr. Candy.

Collections

The Easter Offering for the Bulford Camp Church Building amounted to £4. The May collection (which will be made on May 17th) is for the Temperance Society, when the address will be given by Mr. G. Scott, Diocesan Secretary.

Wedding

Mar. 30.            Arthur Vincent and Susan Hibbs

1914: April: Parish Magazine

Vicar: Arthur Napier

Collections

The amount of the March offertory made on behalf of the Bishop of Salisbury’s Fund under the new organisation of Church Finance amounted to £2 10s. 0d.

The Easter offering is always and everywhere regarded as a present from the Congregation to their Minister, so that if the latter be poor, those amongst whom he labours may contribute to his earthly needs; while if he already have enough, he may devote the offering to some objectwhich he has at heart. This year I propose to send what you of your generosity give me (on Easter Day) to help to build a Church for the use of the soldiers at Bulford, near Salisbury, who though five times as many as we are in Kingston have no place of worship, while we have two.

Services

There will be no Communion Service on the first Sunday of the month (April 5th), as there will be two on the following Sunday (Easter Day). As the children’s “Mercy Sunday” falls on Easter Day, it will be kept on the Sunday following. Good Friday – Morning Service with sermon at 11. Children’s Service (in new Church) at 2.45. ; Service of Song at 6.30. Easter Day – Holy Communion at 8; Choral Communion at 11.

N.B. – Will those who cannot make it convenient to remain for the entire service, kindly leave the Church during the singing of the collection hymn. Children’s Service at 3.

N.B. – Will those children who bring primroses or other flowers for the decoration of their Church please take them up to the Old Church by 10 o’clock.

Evening Prayer, Anthem and Sermon at 6.30

Confirmation

Mar 24.             At Langton, Olive Grace Audley

1914: March: Parish Magazine

Vicar: Arthur Napier

Band of Mercy

A most gratifying result crowned our first entry in the Children’s Competition between the four counties of Dorset, Somerset, Devon and Cornwall. The competition consisted of an essay to be written by any member (between the ages of 9 and 14 years) of each Band, upon the subject of animals. The four best essays were first chosen out of the different Bands of Mercy, and then these were compared and judged together. The result of this judgment was a win for Plympton (in Devonshire) and second place for Kingston, with a certificate of recommendation. Kingston’s chosen four were: Margaret Grant, May Speck, Olive Audley and Ralph Hunt.

The Concert

Owing to a domestic bereavement, neither Mrs. Napier nor I were able to be present at the Concert on Friday, February 20th, in aid of the Band funds, so I can only speak of it from hearsay, instead of from personal experience.

The day was unfortunately a wet one, but there were not many of the usual audience who were prevented from attending.

The Concert appears to have been an unqualified success, and a sum of £2 18s. 6d. was handed over to Bandmaster W. Hooper.

A very pleasing item in the Concert was the presentation to W. Hooper of a China dinner service by the choirmen and bandsmen on the occasion of his wedding, which took place on the following morning. Mr. W. Candy very kindly made the presentation in my absence.

Collections

The March Collection will be for the Bishop of Salisbury’s Fund, and will be taken on Sunday, March 22nd. I have not as yet been able to come to any decision as to the manner of making a house-to-house visit for this purpose (as was proposed in the paper sent to you all by Colonel Rolson), and so, for this time, at all events, we must ask the authorities to be content with a Church offering.

The amount (Morning Service only) received for and transmitted to the Church Army, February 22nd, was £1 10s.

Wedding

Feb. 21.            William Hooper and Margaret Elizabeth Beavis

1914: February: Parish Magazine

Vicar: Arthur Napier

Offertories

The monthly collections will follow much the same order as last year, except that the October one will be for Foreign Missions instead of for the special object of last year.

January             –           Parish Sick Fund

February           –           Church Army

March               –           Bishop of Salisbury’s Fund

April                 –           Easter: Special

May                  –           Temperance Society

June                 –           R.S.P.C.A.

July                  –           Fresh Air Fund

August              –           Prevention of Cruelty to Children

September        –           Hospital Fund

October             –           Foreign Missions

November         –           Mission to Seamen

December         –           Waifs and Strays

Lent

The Lenten Season begins on Ash Wednesday, February 25th. The Commination Service will be read on that day at 7 p.m., and a special service on the following Wednesdays with an instructive reading.

Rifle Club

I wish to hold a Rifle Club meeting at the Vicarage, on Wednesday, February 11th, at 7 o’clock; this will be the only notice issued, so will all the men interested in our shooting please be present.

Confirmation

The nearest places at which the Bishop will hold confirmations are as follows:

Wareham          –           March 24th, 3 p.m.

Langton            –           May 4th, 5 p.m.

Swanage           –           November 22nd, 3 p.m.

There will be no regular classes formed, but if there are any who wish to be prepared for either of these dates, I shall be very glad to arrange times most convenient to them, provided they let me know at least seven weeks before one of the three above mentioned dates.

Additional notes

During the past year, 1913, there were:

Ten Children Baptised

Five Persons Buried

Six Couples Married

Three Hundred and Eleven Communicants

Baptisms

Jan 11              Linda Kathleen Jefferies

,,    ,,                Philip Dennis Neale

,,    ,,                James Albert Haskett

1914: January: Parish Magazine

kingston parish mag cover

Vicar: Arthur Napier

Offertories

My first paragraph in the New Year will consist of a list of the 1913 charities which you who are Churchpeople in deed as well as name have assisted with heartiness and generosity. The January collection, will be given towards our own parish “Sick and Poor” Fund, which (added to the Early Communion Service offertories) forms a little fund which helps towards the occasional needs of our own people.

£ s. d.
Communion Offertories and Churchings 1 15 6
Jan Church Army 2 3 0
Mar Antarctic Tragedy 4 10 0
April Bishop of Salisbury’s Fund 2 5 0
May Temperance Society 2 11 6
June R.S.P.C.A. 1 16 6
July Fresh Air Fund 2 5 6
Aug Prevention Cruelty to Children 2 2 0
Sept Swanage Cottage Hospital 4 0 0
Oct South Wales Colliery Disaster 6 6 0
Nov Missions to Seamen 4 3 6
Dec Waifs and Strays 2 10 0
36 8 6
The total amount collected in 1912 36 19 6

Entertainment

On Friday, January 23rd, in the Schoolroom, Mr. Harry Pouncy, the Dorset lecturer and entertainer, will give a popular entertainment in the Dorset dialect, comprising a recital from the poems of William Barnes, sketches from the works of Mr. Thomas Hardy (by the author’s special permission), and old Dorset songs and stories. The time will be as usual, namely, doors open at 7, commence at 7.30. Admission: First three rows 1s. ; rest of room, 6d. ; and children of school age in the Class room, 3d.

The general Choir Practice in that week would be held on Thursday evening.

Wedding

Dec. 22.  Arthur Edward Cross and Jessie