Editorial

“If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”

African Proverb

Next year will celebrate the one hundredth anniversary of a major rural community hub in our area. Aston Ingham Village Hall is a perfect example of the village hall movement which developed strongly in the early 20th century. You only have to read The Chimes each month to see the huge diversity of use that this building offers in supporting its local community. I remember using it for social events throughout my teens (I am now in my seventies!). My wife and daughter also used it for “Rainbows” activities in the ’90’s.In the centre pages of this issue you will find an article written by our sub editor for Aston Ingham, Mike Clayton. It is a very informative and interesting piece giving a clear picture of the life of A.I. Village Hall. The age and use of the building have resulted in a great deal of wear and tear. Major improvements and repairs are needed to keep this hall in the condition that its community deserves. £30,000 is now required for essential repairs. Details of how to help raise this money can be found at the end of the centre page article. If you, believe in the value of a thriving community then please help in any way that you can.

Steve Tommey

A VIEW FROM THE HILL

Winter Blues

Now, early January, we are in the depths of winter which is not everybody’s favourite time. I like to think that the sun’s declination shows that the sun is moving northwards and the days will be lengthening — hardly perceptible at the moment, but it is coming. However, Spring is still far away. Or is it? March 21st

is the first day of Spring (real Spring, not that met office reasoning of Spring) and is not that far away. OK, we could have some tough weather before and after 21/3 but the days will lengthen and the sun, when it shows itself, will feel warmer.

Already the snowdrops are showing themselves and the daffodil shoots are slowly growing. Celandines are showing some sturdy leaves along with other wild plants, so do not let the winter blues bother you, as better things are already on the way.

Peter Lockwood