Slaley, Northumberland

The Community Trust AGM: Wednesday April 21st!

Slaley Community Trust will be holding their AGM in the Commemoration Hall on Wednesday, April 21st 2010. As last year, we will start at 7 pm with drinks and nibbles, time for discussion and finally a very short AGM. All our members will be notified, but anyone living in the parish of Slaley can become a member (no subscription!), or just come along on the night.

The current chairman, Michael Elphick, is standing down, and more volunteers are needed to ensure that the Trust can carry on its work. We would particularly like to involve younger people, and anyone willing to help can count on the support of existing members.

Please help us to keep going! Annual General Meetings may sound boring, but have to be held to ensure that an organisation like this satisfies the requirements of its constitution.

So come along on the 21st, tell us how we might help you or your group, and see if you could help us.

Michael Elphick (Chairman, 673443), Catherine Lincoln (Secretary, 676855)

Take a CAKE BREAK!

Come along for tea, coffee, cakes and light refreshments, in Slaley Commemoration Hall, on Friday, April 30th!

Jenny Dyson and friends are hosting a ‘Cake Break’ morning, from 10:30 to 12:30, as part of the MS Society ‘MS Week’ National Campaign to raise funds for ongoing research and development into what can be such a devastating condition. The ‘Hairy Bikers’ are supporting the initiative throughout the UK and some of their recipes will be available on the day.

There will be a quiz, competitions and prizes, cakes to buy and a catch up with local news. So, please come along, bring a cake or alternative – for further details ring Jenny on 673853.

Leek Club 2010 Open Flower and Vegetable Show

The 51st Slaley Leek Club Show will be held on the 2nd of October in the Commemoration Hall. The schedule (this is a PDF document) with details of all the classes can be found here.

The Flower section is proving as popular as ever and membership of the Leek Club remains healthy. Please remember that it is not only Leeks but many other types of Vegetable that can be entered on the day. Still in the ground in early October can be Onions, Carrots, Potatoes, Tomatoes, Courgettes, Turnips, Marrows, Cabbage and Caulliflower, so plan your entries around these as well as Leeks.

This year sees the launch of a special Junior section in the Leek Club. Entries for this section include a Show Leek, Onion and Giant Marrow. Prizes are First £10, Second £5, Third £3 and a mystery prize will be given to all entrants. A cup will be awarded to the winner.

For details of how they will be judged, and how to grow your prize leeks, see below.

Rules for Junior Show Leeks

1. Judged on Cubic Capacity by the show leek judges.
2. One leek to be entered.
3. The largest capacity single good quality leek will win.
4. The maximum length will not be 6 inches as is the usual case with show leeks.
5. The leeks must be grown and tended by the junior, not the parent.

The leeks must be kept separate from the parents leeks, they can be grown in the same trench‚ but must be separated from the parent's leeks and clearly marked. If the leeks are stamped by the Slaley Leek Club stamper as though they were the parent's leeks then they cannot be entered by the junior. It would therefore be advantageous to supply a map of where you have planted them when you agree to enter the competition.

Two Leeks will be supplied by Slaley Leek Club to each Junior entrant, and a contribution of £4 is required for the two leeks.

The prizes are First £10, Second £5, Third £3 and a mystery prize will be given to all entrants. A cup will be awarded to the winner.

How to grow a Show Leek.

• Prepare a hole in the garden that is 1m long by 0.5m wide and 0.5m deep. In the bottom of the hole put in well rotted manure, then fill the hole with good quality soil/compost/gro-bag. Thoroughly soak the soil and allow it to settle for a day or two.
• In this prepared area you will be planting two leeks.
• Plant the leeks in the good quality soil after the end of all frosts, usually during May.
• Gently and carefully firm in the leek.
• Water the leeks 3 times per week ensuring a good soaking.
• If it is windy firm in the leek again until it has established itself.
• If you have a pet or naughty rabbit in your garden put some wire or boarding around the leeks to avoid them being damaged.
• If during the summer weeds start to appear then pull them out but try not to disturb the leek.

Digging up the Leek and preparing for the show.

On the day before or the day of the show you need to dig up your leek.

• Dig gently all round the leek, then pull the leek up but keep a firm hold all around the leek to avoid the leaves (known as flags) from splitting.
• Clean all the muck out of the roots, but leave the roots on.
• Strip off the flags until you have no split flags and a handsome looking leek.

Need help?
Ask Brian Wilson (673 043) or other Leek Club members.

Leek Club 2010 Open Flower and Vegetable Show

The 51st Slaley Leek Club Show will be held on the 2nd of October in the Commemoration Hall. The schedule (this is a PDF document) with details of all the classes can be found here.

The Flower section is proving as popular as ever and membership of the Leek Club remains healthy. Please remember that it is not only Leeks but many other types of Vegetable that can be entered on the day. Still in the ground in early October can be Onions, Carrots, Potatoes, Tomatoes, Courgettes, Turnips, Marrows, Cabbage and Caulliflower, so plan your entries around these as well as Leeks.

This year sees the launch of a special Junior section in the Leek Club. Entries for this section include a Show Leek, Onion and Giant Marrow. Prizes are First £10, Second £5, Third £3 and a mystery prize will be given to all entrants. A cup will be awarded to the winner.

For details of how they will be judged, and how to grow your prize leeks, see below.

Rules for Junior Show Leeks

1. Judged on Cubic Capacity by the show leek judges.
2. One leek to be entered.
3. The largest capacity single good quality leek will win.
4. The maximum length will not be 6 inches as is the usual case with show leeks.
5. The leeks must be grown and tended by the junior, not the parent.

The leeks must be kept separate from the parents leeks, they can be grown in the same trench‚ but must be separated from the parent's leeks and clearly marked. If the leeks are stamped by the Slaley Leek Club stamper as though they were the parent's leeks then they cannot be entered by the junior. It would therefore be advantageous to supply a map of where you have planted them when you agree to enter the competition.

Two Leeks will be supplied by Slaley Leek Club to each Junior entrant, and a contribution of £4 is required for the two leeks.

The prizes are First £10, Second £5, Third £3 and a mystery prize will be given to all entrants. A cup will be awarded to the winner.

How to grow a Show Leek.

• Prepare a hole in the garden that is 1m long by 0.5m wide and 0.5m deep. In the bottom of the hole put in well rotted manure, then fill the hole with good quality soil/compost/gro-bag. Thoroughly soak the soil and allow it to settle for a day or two.
• In this prepared area you will be planting two leeks.
• Plant the leeks in the good quality soil after the end of all frosts, usually during May.
• Gently and carefully firm in the leek.
• Water the leeks 3 times per week ensuring a good soaking.
• If it is windy firm in the leek again until it has established itself.
• If you have a pet or naughty rabbit in your garden put some wire or boarding around the leeks to avoid them being damaged.
• If during the summer weeds start to appear then pull them out but try not to disturb the leek.

Digging up the Leek and preparing for the show.

On the day before or the day of the show you need to dig up your leek.

• Dig gently all round the leek, then pull the leek up but keep a firm hold all around the leek to avoid the leaves (known as flags) from splitting.
• Clean all the muck out of the roots, but leave the roots on.
• Strip off the flags until you have no split flags and a handsome looking leek.

Need help?
Ask Brian Wilson (673 043) or other Leek Club members.

Film Club on Friday, January 15th.

At present, we are still planning to show "Vicky Cristina Barcelona" on Friday, January 15th. If the weather deteriorates we may review this decision, and will announce any changes here.

We hope that people might welcome a night out without having to travel too far, and this is a sunny romantic comedy from Woody Allen, with two young American women on holiday in Barcelona, an amorous Spanish painter and his volatile ex-wife. The supper will be a warming Spanish broth!

One reviewer concludes: "the actors are attractive, the city is magnificent, the love scenes don't get all sweaty, and everybody finishes the summer a little wiser and with a lifetime of memories. What more could you ask?"

Come and see what goes on in your Village Hall!

On Saturday October 17th, from 2 to 4 pm, you are invited to drop in for an Open Day at the Commemoration Hall. You will have an opportunity to see what the many clubs and groups get up to (perhaps even join one of them). Choose from:

• Badminton,
• Karate,
• Carpet Bowls,
• Keep Fit,
• Community Trust,
• Leek Club,
• Craft group,
• Mothers & Toddlers,
• Film Club,
• and the Women’s Institute.

You can also see a demonstration of the new kitchen, while tea & biscuits will be served.

Slaley Film Club starts its 6th season!

Here is the programme for our sixth season, starting in September 2009, and finishing in May 2010. We extend an invitation to all from Slaley, Hexhamshire, Blanchland, and Tynedale in general.

Shows in the Commemoration Hall are always on a Friday evening, starting at 7.30 pm (doors open at 7 pm). The admission charge of £5 (£3 for under 16s) includes your supper, but not a drink (you’re welcome to bring your own). If you are bringing a party of 4 or more, or have special dietary needs, it would be helpful to let us know (on 01434 673443).

• September 18, 2009 “Australia” (Certificate 12A)
  Baz Luhrman’s “Australia” has been described as an Australian Western. Set in 1939 and starring Nicole Kidman & Hugh Jackman, it’s a sweeping romantic melodrama.
• October 14, 2009 “27 Dresses” (Certificate 12A)
  Shown by Slaley WI, this is a romantic comedy about a serial bridesmaid. FREE admission and open to everyone, but please let us know ASAP if you’re coming.
• October 16, 2009 “Slumdog Millionaire” (Certificate 15)
  Set in Bombay, this is the story of Jamal’s attempt to win the Indian “Who wants to be a Millionaire?” A mixture of comedy, romance, drama and suspense.
• November 20, 2009 “North Face” (Certificate 12A)
  In this dramatic recreation, as Nazi propaganda urges the nation's youth to challenge the unclimbed north face of the Eiger, two young Germans begin their daring ascent.
• December 18, 2009 “War of the Buttons” (Certificate PG)
  Back by popular demand, this film centres on the feud between the children of neighbouring villages in Ireland, the Carricks and the Ballys.
• January 15, 2010 “Vicky Cristina Barcelona” (Cert. 12A)
  A romantic comedy from Woody Allen, with two young American women on holiday in Barcelona romantically involved with an amorous Spanish painter and his volatile ex-wife.
• February 19, 2010 “Son of Rambow” (Certificate 12A)
  After seeing a pirate copy of ‘Rambo’, Will (who isn't allowed to go to the movies) and Lee (the school terror) decide to make their own video.
• March 19, 2010 “Mountain Patrol” (Certificate 15)
  On a remote Tibetan plateau, a team of Tibetan volunteers try to protect wild antelopes from being wiped out by Chinese poachers, as a Chinese journalist follows their pursuit.
• April 16, 2010 “Dean Spanley” (Certificate U)
  Set in Edwardian London and starring Peter O'Toole and Sam Neill, this is an eccentric, but rewarding, film about reincarnation, dogs and their masters.
• May 21, 2010 “Rabbit Proof Fence” (Certificate PG)
  Three aboriginal girls set out to find their way back home by following the rabbit-proof fence that stretches across the Australian Outback.

If you would like to receive an email before each show, please send a request (by email) to: michael@elphicks.plus.com We also publish details on the Slaley web site (www.slaley.org.uk), and via Slaley Notes in the Hexham Courant.

Jean & Michael Elphick

Seen at the 150th Slaley Show!

One of the features of this special occasion was the appearance of a number of committee members (mainly the ladies) in period costume. Here are a few scenes from the field and elsewhere ...

John Grundy visits the Trust book stall:

And finally a puzzle picture:

LADYCROSS TALK, THIS THURSDAY

Thursday, January 15th, Commemoration Hall, 7.30 pm

Illustrated talk on 'The North Pennines - 500 million years in the making' - The Geology of our area.
Elizabeth Pickett - North Pennines AONB

Followed by refreshments. All welcome - proceeds to Ladycross Nature Reserve.

Our December film (with cake)!

It's the final film night of 2008, with a showing of a Scandinavian thriller set in Copenhagen and Arctic Greenland:

"Smilla's Feeling for Snow" (Certificate 15).

As the kitchen is off limits, it will be a night to bring "a plate and a bit", plus your own drink. The good news is that the price is reduced to only £3 a head! Contact Jean or Michael on 673443 with any queries. There will also be some cake, thanks to Anne Lishman, complete with a queue for the igloo (shown below)!

Film equipment for the Hall

The Commemoration Hall now has its own film projection facilities, thanks to the Queen’s Hall and the success of the Film Club in attracting regular audiences. The installation includes a new ceiling mounted screen, digital projector, DVD player, audio amplifier and speakers.

The next film, showing on Friday October 17th, is “The Jane Austen Book Club”. As usual, it starts at 7.30 and the cost is only £5 for the film and your supper. Subsequent shows feature a range of films to suit most tastes, so if you haven't been before just come along one Friday evening! If you’re bringing a party of 4 or more, or would prefer a vegetarian supper, it would be helpful to let us know in advance (ring 01434 673443).

November 21st, 2008 “Atonement” (Cert. 15)
In a privileged family Briony - a girl with a vivid imagination - accuses the housekeeper’s son of a crime he did not commit. This accusation dramatically alters the course of all their lives.

December 19th, 2008 “Smilla’s Sense of Snow” (Cert. 15)
When a boy falls from a Copenhagen apartment, police judge it a tragic accident. Smilla Jasperson, who can read snow like a book, is convinced it was murder, and sets out on a long journey to uncover the terrifying truth.

January 16th, 2009 “Hot Fuzz” (Cert. 15)
Jealous colleagues conspire to get a top London cop transferred to a small town. A funny, inventive, and furiously paced comedy.

February 20th, 2009 “The World’s Fastest Indian” (Cert. 12A)
The life story of New Zealander Burt Munro, a plucky pensioner who broke the world land-speed record on his modified Indian Scout motorbike.

March 20th, 2009 “Ladies in Lavender” (Cert. 12A)
Two sisters find a body washed up on their shore of a sleepy fishing village. The boy, Andrea, is taken into their home to recover and the two women compete for his attention.

April 17th, 2009 “Juno” (15)
The tale of a cool, confident teenager who takes a nine-month detour into adulthood when she's faced with an unplanned pregnancy - and sets out to find the perfect parents for her baby.

May 15th, 2009 “A Month in the Country” (PG)
During a summer month in 1920, two damaged veterans of the Western Front experience the tranquility of an idyllic community that helps heal their mental wounds.

SOS: Save our squirrels!

A meeting of the local group of "Save Our Squirrels" will be held in the Rose and Crown, Slaley on 23rd October 2008 at 7 pm.

Mark Wilkinson will be present to discuss "Action in our Area" and the many ways we can become involved in giving our red squirrels a chance of survival.

All are welcome - please come along, and find out what's happening with red (and grey) squirrels in Slaley.

Ladycross Nightjar Walks, July

Ladycross Nature Reserve has organised two evening walks through Slaley Forest, led by Colin Jewitt, to see and hear nightjars. Please join us, to experience these rare and remarkable birds.
The walks are on :
Tuesday, July 8th
Wednesday, July 16th
Please meet for a 9.30 pm start, outside the Ladycross Quarry gate.
Proceeds to Ladycross Nature Reserve

The Community Trust AGM

On Thursday April 17th the Community Trust will be holding its third AGM in the Commemoration Hall. The meeting will start at 7.30 p.m.

Annual General Meetings may sound dull affairs but the Trust really needs your support in helping it to continue its work for the people of Slaley. Like many local groups the committee relies on a few busy people to run it during the year, and one or two more volunteers (especially to help with secretarial duties) would be very welcome!

One of the things that we started this year is the monthly newsletter, giving details of what's on in Slaley and who to contact. We hope you have found this, and the yearly Parish Reports booklet, useful ways of keeping people in touch.

So come along to the Hall, hear what we have been doing and have tea & biscuits with us!

Slaley Gardening Group, 2008

The Slaley Gardening Group has now fixed its 2008 programme, with the following events:

January 31st: this is a social night with a very easy gardening quiz. You
might even win a prize!!!

February 28th: a talk given by Maggie Brannen-Mcadams on unusual varieties of tomatoes. What she doesn't know about tomatoes really isn't worth knowing. The second speaker is Gordon Wood from the Northern Vegetable Society, who will answer questions about growing vegetables here in the North East. Gordon is supporting our new village venture by bringing wine and (most importantly) show leek plants for the raffle on the night, along with other prizes.

March 27th: an introduction to alpines, a talk and slides by Mr. Alan
Flowers of Wooley. Get your rockeries ready - there will be no
excuses after tonight.

April 24th: a visit by Clive and Viv from Hollybush Nurseries. They will
be showing us the correct way to plant up hanging baskets and tubs.
We might see some in the show this year.

May 29th: a visit to Birkheads Nursery near Causey Arch. We will have the
gardens to walk round at leisure, and the owner Mrs Christine Liddle
will be on hand to answer questions. The fee is £5 per person, but this includes
homemade cakes, and liquid refreshments. Minimum of 20 people needed.

June 26th: this is a visit to the Clematis Nursery at Beamish. Questions will be answered by Mr Brown during and after the visit. There will be a charge of £2.50 per head for the visit plus wine and cheese. We
need a minimum of 15 people.

July 31st, August 28th: on these two dates we will be visiting each
other's gardens to see who was asleep at the other meetings. Don't
worry if you don't want to let the hoards in, just opt out, no pressure.

September 25th: (to be confirmed)

October 30th: (to be confirmed)

November 27th: Dr Yellowley from Darras Hall will give a light hearted talk entitled "The Alphabet Talks". A Q & A session will follow.

December 18th: Christmas drinks and nibbles. Perhaps another quiz?

All start times are 7.30, and the venue is the Commemoration Hall, Slaley.
Please ring 673210 if you have any queries.

Please note there will be a cost of £2 per person for each group meeting, for the hire of the hall and refreshments.

Charity Coffee Morning on February 23rd

There will be a Charity coffee morning on Saturday, February 23rd in Slaley Commemoration Hall from 10.30 - 12.30, in aid of the Great North Air Ambulance. This charity runs 3 helicopters within our region, to enable the emergency services to reach people involved in serious accidents and to take the injured to hospital. All these activities depend on public donations!

A Raffle will offer dinner for 2 at Slaley Hall as the first prize, while other prizes include a hamper of goodies and plants. A bring and buy stall will also be featured.

Any contributions or offers of help will be welcomed by Fran Pugh (673429) or Carol Ferguson (673585), who will collect if required.

Film Show in March: change of date

Having just realised that the date announced for the March film (”Muriel’s Wedding") of 21st March falls on a Good Friday, we have now re-arranged it for a week later (Friday, March 28th). This also allows the Queen's Hall projectionists to have a holiday break!

The film is a story of love, laughter and the pursuit of matrimony, with music by Abba. We hope to see you there ...

A Murder Mystery Evening: now SOLD OUT!

On Saturday, 9th February, 2008 the Slaley Commemoration Hall committee have arranged a Murder Mystery Evening!

The organisers would like to thank all those who have bought a ticket as this event is now SOLD OUT. For all of you lucky ones with a ticket, can you please be at the Commemoration Hall by 7.30 pm prompt, for the start of the first Act.

From then until late you'll be entertained by the Whitley Chapel Players as they present "The Mysterious Death of Alexander Spottswood (February 1718)". Watch the scenes, piece together the clues and interview the suspects. There will also be a hot supper, bar and raffle.

Tickets are £12 (including supper), and were available from:

• Pat Goodwin (673408)
• Rachel Scott (673174)
• Pat Wilson (673388)

All proceeds will go towards the refurbishment of the Hall kitchen (now badly in need of attention).

Film shows for 2007/2008

Here is the programme for our next season, starting in September 2007, and finishing in May 2008. We extend an invitation to join us to all from Slaley, Hexhamshire, Blanchland, and Tynedale in general.

Our shows in the Commemoration Hall are always on a Friday evening, starting at 7.30 pm (doors open at 7 pm). Everyone is welcome, but you are asked to register as a member of the Film Club (free subscription!) to allow us to show films under a “non-theatrical licence”.

The admission charge of £5 (£3 for under 16s) includes your supper, but not a drink (you’re welcome to bring your own). If you’re bringing a party of 4 or more, or would prefer a vegetarian supper, it would be helpful to let us know in advance (ring 01434 673443).

• Friday September 21st: “Fried Green Tomatoes” (Certificate 12)
  A drama about strong women and nonconformity, set in Alabama in the 1920s
• Friday October 20th: “The Three Burials of Melquiades Estrada”(Certificate 15)
  A modern Western exploring death, delusion and friendship, in which one life is honoured, and one death is avenged.
  
• Friday November 16th: “Oh, What a Lovely War” (Certificate PG)
  First seen in 1963 as a theatrical production, this film is a moving, funny, and lyrical evocation of the tragedy and pathos of the First World War. Along the way, the story is marked by a fantastic collection of songs from the Great War such as ‘Pack Up Your Troubles’, ‘Keep The Home Fires Burning’ and ‘It’s A Long Way To Tipperary’.
• Friday December 14th: “The Queen” (Certificate 12A)
  Helen Mirren as the Queen, coming to terms with the events surrounding the death of Diana.

Then in 2008 we will be showing:

• January 18, 2008: ”Kinky Boots” (Cert. 12A)
  How far would you go to save the family shoe-making business?
• February 15:”Volver" (Cert. 15)
  The power of motherhood and the blessing of good friends …
• March 28:”Muriel’s Wedding" (Cert. 15)
  A story of love, laughter and the pursuit of matrimony, with music by Abba.
• April 18:"Monsoon Wedding" (Cert. 15)
  An arranged marriage in India, with a stressed father, a bride-to-be with a secret, and relatives from around the world.
• May 16:"Priscilla, Queen of the Desert" (Cert. 15)
  Fun, daring, over-the-top and unforgettable! A road movie with attitude and the occasional frock.

Let us know what you think of the films you've seen ... and if you're searching for details of a film, the Internet Movie Database is a great place to start from.

Who do you think you are?

Are you interested in learning how to trace your family history?

We are planning a course of weekly sessions using the Commemoration Hall computers. You would learn how to use sources on the internet and about where to find information without using a computer.

We are also considering whether to try and run a separate course on Digital Photography. If you are interested in either of these proposals, please contact:

Ian Hancock (telephone 673 502, e-mail: hancock@glenlodge.free-online.co.uk
or:
Michael Elphick (telephone 673 443, e-mail: editor@slaley.org.uk)

We will need sufficient interest to justify putting on these courses, and there will have to be a fee (not yet determined) to cover the costs. Also, if there are any other courses using the computers that you might be interested in, please let us know.

A Slaley Gardening Club?

Nigel Green is offering to start up a monthly gardening club in Slaley, and would like to see if there is any interest in the parish. It’s very early days, but the general idea is to have speakers, and exchange ideas & plants.
Another aim would be to encourage an increase in the number of entries in the Horticulture section at the Slaley Show.
Please ring Nigel on (01434) 673210 if you think you might be interested.

The Slaley Charity Auction is coming!

The Slaley Charity Auction, in aid of the Parkinson’s Disease Society and Cancer Research UK, will take place on Saturday 29th September, so come along and pick up a bargain! The auction starts at 1 pm prompt, and will include antiques, collectors' items, curios, bric-a-brac, furniture, linen, pictures, books, garden tools and much more.
There will be a viewing period on the Friday evening from 6 to 9 pm, and on Saturday morning from 9 am. Refreshments (provided by the "Slaley Ladies")will be available on both Friday evening and Saturday.
More items are still needed, however. Albert Weir can organise collection of any items, but please contact him on (01434) 673534 as soon as possible.

The 148th Slaley Show

The 148th Slaley Show, held on Saturday August 11th 2007, was a great success (despite the restrictions that prevented showing of sheep or alpacas), and the Show Committee would like to thank all those members, judges, stewards and visitors who gave their time, effort and money in supporting this event!

The full results for the 2007 Show are available here as a PDF document. Note that this document runs to 15 pages if printed out in full! A shorter 2-page listing of all the cups, trophies and prizes awarded is also available.

Saturday August 11th: Slaley Show IS ON!

The 148th Slaley Show IS going ahead to-morrow, so come and support us!

All necessary and important bio-security will be adhered to. The horse events will go ahead, and at the last count there will be over fifty birds of the feathered variety in the poultry tent. There will still be plenty to do and see, the field has been mown and everything is looking fine, so turn up and support this community event with your presence and your entries.

Slaley Leek Club's Ceilidh a success!

On Friday 23rd March the Commemoration Hall was packed for the Slaley Leek Club Ceilidh. The renowned Kevin and Ros Doonan led the excellent young Slaley fiddlers (Amanda, Zoe, Ailsa, Catriona, and Angharad) and there was superb accordion and guitar from David and Chippy. Some of the dancing was unbelievable!
There was unanimous agreement that the Irish stew and veg Stew cooked by club members was excellent. All the food and drink was locally sourced. The occasion also included a presentation to the recently retired committee members, Clive, Margaret, Roy and Jean to thank them for their many years of service to the leek club.
This was a very well attended and fun night and there were many calls for a repeat, when all the dancers have recovered!!!
The committee would like to thank all those who helped to make the evening a memorable event.

An invitation to all in the Parish of Slaley!

The Community Trust is now reaching the end of its second year, and our third Annual General Meeting is to be held on Tuesday 27th March 2007, at 7.30 pm in the Commemoration Hall. Every resident in the parish is invited to attend, and if you are already a member we hope to meet you again.
If you are not a member then we urge you to consider joining us. There is no subscription, and membership of the trust is open to “any person over the age of 18 years and living within the Parish of Slaley”.
Please get in touch with any of the present officers (details below) to make any nominations or to volunteer to serve on the Executive Committee, 14 days before the meeting if possible. We are particularly in need of a new Secretary, as the current secretary will not be continuing.

We hope that we will have your support in one way or the other, to help continue the work of the Trust.

Michael Elphick (Chairman) (01434) 673 443
Janis Irvine (Secretary) (01434) 673 609
Nicky Jeffrey (Treasurer) (01434) 673 438

Film Club news for 2007

Slaley Film Club has now completed its third year of monthly shows in the Commemoration Hall. We have attracted audience numbers from 11 to 25, and have ended the year with a reasonable balance of about £65 (we started in January with almost £92).

For our next season we are starting the year with another film from the team that made "The Tale of the Weeping Camel" (one of our most popular choices in 2005).

The full programme up to May 2007 is:

Jan 19th, 2007: "The Cave of the Yellow Dog" (Certificate U)

A simple, touching, unpretentious film about a Mongolian girl who finds a puppy and keeps it in secret, despite her father's objections, to become her best friend.

Feb 16th, 2007: "The Bridges of Madison County" (Certificate 12)

Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep in a classic love story about two people who find the promise of perfect personal happiness, and understand, with sadness and acceptance, that the most important things in life are not always about making yourself happy.

Mar 16th, 2007: "The Shipping News" (Certificate 15)

Set in Newfoundland, this film of Annie Proulx's novel features Kevin Spacey as local reporter Quoyle, who has come to make a new start with his daughter.

Apr 20th, 2007: "Cold Mountain" (Certificate 15)

In the midst of the American Civil War, a wounded soldier embarks on a perilous journey back home to his sweetheart.

May 18th, 2007: "Howl's Moving Castle" (Certificate U)

Another amazing animation from Japan, featuring a young girl bewitched as an old crone, and a magician’s moving castle, propelled by metal chicken legs!

As usual, the film titles above are linked to entries in the Internet Movie Database - the most comprehensive source of information about films, directors, actors and so on.

Our charges remain unchanged for the films above: £5 (£3 under 16) gets you both the film and your supper!

Slaley Leek Club seeks new members

Slaley Leek Club would welcome anyone in the parish wanting to join the leek club. The leek club is a sociable affair! Members meet every other Sunday for the 'Forecast draw' in the Rose and Crown at 8.30 pm. Darts and domino nights , a Ceilidh night and a barbecue are held during the year.
Growing show leeks is quite simple, growing winners a 'black art' ! The leeks are usually planted outside around June and the leek show is held in the Commemoration Hall on the first Saturday in October. That might seem like a long wait to see if you have grown a winner!! But that's all part of the fun.
The Leek Club can order you some leeks and this needs to be done in December. A local garden center will reserve them for you until you collect them, which can be as late as May if you don't have a heated greenhouse.

The Leek Club Show day includes open classes for Flowers, Vegetables and Childrens entries and it is planned to encourage as many local people as possible to enter their prize exhibits. The Slaley School grew leeks, vegetables and even Veggie creatures last year and will be doing the same again this year.
Now is the time to join so if you would like to join the Slaley Leek Club please contact Sid Davison on 673681, Brian Wilson 673043 or Ros Doonan on 673173.

Films for the Autumn!

Here's the programme for Slaley Film Club's Autumn season. Film titles have been linked to BBCi reviews where possible.

Please note that we have had to change dates for September (now the fourth Friday) and December (the second Friday). There is no membership fee, and the admission charge of £5 for adults and £3 for under-16s will as before include your supper.

• Friday September 22nd: "Etre et Avoir" (Certificate U)

  A marvellous film which finds genuine cinematic magic in the small miracle of children learning to grow. It takes us into the heart of a small school in the Auvergne, in which children ranging in age from four to 10 are taught together. Opening in the snow-bitten wilds of December, and following its charges through to hay-making in June, this film simply watches and listens while the children develop before us.

• Friday October 20th: "Walk the Line"(Certificate 18)

  A chronicle of country music legend Johnny Cash's life, from his early days on an Arkansas cotton farm to his rise to fame with Sun Records in Memphis, with great acting and singing performances from Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon.

• Friday November 17th: "A Very Long Engagement" (Certificate 15)

  From the director and star of "Amelie" comes a very different love story, This film tells the story of a a young woman's relentless search for her fiancee, who has disappeared from the trenches of the Somme during World War One.

• Friday December 8th: "Fargo" (Certificate 18)

  An extraordinary thriller, in which Jerry's inept crime falls apart due to his and his henchmen's bungling, and the persistent police work of pregnant Marge Gunderson (played by Frances McDormand, wife of the writer & director Joel Coen).

We'll be looking at next year's programme soon, and welcome suggestions for films you might like to see. Our own choices tend to be films that you may not have seen before, and avoid the popular blockbusters.
Let us know what you think ... and if you're searching for details of a film, the Internet Movie Database is a great place to start from.

Taster of this years Slaley Show

Some photos of last years show as a taster for this year

View image

View image

View image

View image

View image

View image

View image

View image

View image

View image

View image

View image

View image

Welcome to the 147th Slaley Show!

The Show date: Saturday 12th August 2006

Townhead Field, Slaley, Hexham, Norhtunmberland, NE47 0AG

This year sees the sheep back for the first time since foot and mouth in 2001. They will be joined by the horses and ponies, dogs (including the breed show for the Sporting Lucas terriers), poultry (with new classes for ducks) and the fabulous Alpacas. Lets not forget the horticulture, industrial, floral, woodcarving and turning and children’s classes. Also the craft tent with added demonstrations, trade stands, side shows, Five Rivers brass band, Charlie the magician, and main ring attractions including Falconrydays, Whitley Chapel Young Farmers and The Haydon Hunt Hounds, with refreshments and a drink in the bar you are guaranteed an enjoyable day in beautiful surroundings.
Entrance: £4 adults, £2 concessions, children under 12 free, carparking free.

Why not try your hand at baking a cake, some scones, a tart, showing your sweet peas, pot plant, potatoes and tomatoes, a ‘show stopper’ floral art arrangement, an individually crafted piece of wood work, and if you’ve been before a photo of a previous Slaley Show. There’s something for everyone from the traditional handicrafts, knitting, needlework, painting, walking sticks, wood carving and turning to a decorated wellie and most pathetic plant. The children’s classes cater for all ages and why not impress with your scarecrow making skills.With prize monies for the quoits it worth a go!
On a more practical note all this would not happen without a lot of help setting up before, on the day, and packing up after. If you would be interested in lending a hand please let me know (Vicky 01434 673782 elftoria@aol.com).
Please come along and join in or just come along and watch, I’m sure you’ll enjoy the whole event.
Collect your schedule from the Secretary West Burnside Slaley Hexham NE47 0AG, the Post Office, Commemoration Hall, The Rose and Crown, The Travellers Rest or The Dipton Mill. Most entries close 6th August 2006.

The Film Club's 2006 programme!

The Film Club's new programme from January to May 2006 has now been finalised. Regrettably, we have decided to drop the £4 concessionary charge and to increase the under-16s charge to £3. The full charge of £5 will apply to all adults, but will still cover both the film and your supper, and we will review our charging policy later on this year. The films to be shown in the coming five months (selected by the organisers) are as follows. The film titles are linked to BBCi reviews where possible:

• Friday January 20th: "The Aviator" (Certificate 12A)
  A handsome biopic of filmmaker, pilot and millionaire Howard Hughes, directed by Martin Scorcese.
• Friday February 17th: "A Room With a View" (Certificate PG)
  Adapted from the E. M. Forster novel, this is a film full of life, love and hope (requested by the Slaley book club).
• Friday March 17th: " West Side Story" (Certificate A)
  One of the boldest and most breathlessly dynamic musicals ever made - a New York street version of Romeo And Juliet.
• Friday April 21st: "Sideways" (Certificate 15)
  A charming, moving comedy about two men in middle age on a week's road trip through California's wine country, just as one is about to take a trip down the aisle.
• Friday May 19th: "The Story of the Weeping Camel" (Certificate U)
  By popular request, another chance to see this lovingly observed journal of day-to-day survival in the Mongolian Gobi desert, when a family crisis comes with a newborn camel rejected by its mother.

We hope that everyone will find one or more films that appeal, so come along and tell your friends!

Film shows in Slaley

On Friday December 16th, 2005, twenty-five people came along to enjoy the last film of the year, which was also successful in making a small profit! Most of those present felt that the monthly film nights should continue, but the accounts for the year showed that it might be necessary to reconsider the £1 discount for pensioners. Many suggestions for next year's shows were made, and your ideas will be welcomed: send them by email to: editor@slaley.org.uk, or by phone to (01434)673 443.
The new programme will be announced as soon as it has been checked (we have to ensure that films are available for hire at "non-theatrical" performances).

The Slaley Film Club has had a mixed success since it started in late 2004. Here is a quick summary of what we’ve shown this year, what the size of audience was (in parentheses), and how much we made (or lost) each month:

January, "Love, Actually" (20) £2.03 loss
February, "The Weeping Camel" (42) £71.50 profit
March, "Bend it like Beckham" (21) £12.20 loss
April, "War of the Buttons" (38) £55.70 profit
May, "Stepping Out" (17) £40.00 loss

July, "Make an Ad in a Day" (20) A very succesful day for junior film-makers!

September, "Spirited Away" (16) £50.45 loss
October, "Whale Rider" (20) £16.95 loss
November, "Life & Death of Col. Blimp" (16) £16.40 loss
December, "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" (25) £9.64 profit

As you will see, we have made big profits on some evenings, but have more often been making a loss. We can carry on for a few months more at this rate, but in the long run we need more income (e.g. bigger audiences).
The choice of films is always a difficult one; this year it has largely been down to the two of us (Jean & Michael). We’ve tried to introduce you to films that you might not have seen before, rather than popular big-budget films that will be readily available in commercial cinemas, on DVD or on TV. Sometimes this has worked (e.g. in February & April), sometimes not!
Our thanks go to all who have helped in cooking, serving and clearing up afterwards -- also, of course, to Christo Wallers and his helpers from the Queen's Hall who do so much to support us and many other Tynedale film clubs.

Jean & Michael Elphick, Ann Lishman

Last film show of the year!

Friday December 16th is the last film night this year, when we will be featuring George Clooney in “O Brother, Where Art Thou”. This is George Clooney as you’ve never seen him before, in a combination of bluegrass music, comedy and fantasy, set in the Deep South, and loosely based on Homer’s 'Odyssey'.

However if these film shows are to continue next year we need to attract more people, so there will be a short questionnaire to gather your views and suggestions for films to be shown in 2006. You can also send your views and suggestions by email to Michael at editor@slaley.org.uk.

Storytelling in the Commemoration Hall

Children from Slaley and Whitley Chapel have been taking part in the North Pennines Storytelling Festival at Hexham Abbey this Friday, October 14th. This year it explores the theme of "Journeys". For those who have not been able to attend this event, an extra attraction entitled "Along the Way" will take place in Slaley Commemoration Hall at 7.30 pm that evening.

Pascale Konyn, the storyteller, will share tales (with musical accompaniment) inspired by local history that she explored earlier with children and young people from Whitley Chapel and Slaley. Pascale is part of "A Bit Crack", a group of professional storytellersbased in the North East who work individually and together across the country, at festivals and events, and for a wide variety of audiences. People who attended previous events for the Storytelling Festival have been very enthusiastic ... you can read more about the festival at their festival website.

Admission (including refreshments) will be £4.00 for adults, £3.00 for children, and £8.00 for a family ticket.

Internet courses & sessions in the Hall

For the last 12 months Michael Elphick & Pat Wilson have been running a drop-in session on Wednesday mornings for anyone wishing to use the computer systems or get assistance. As there have been very few customers, we are considering whether to discontinue this. If you still find this useful, please let us know by email (to Michael or Pat) or by adding a comment below: we do need some feedback!

If there is sufficient interest, Michael Elphick will put on a short evening course on how to use the Internet to publish information for you, your family or your organisation. A separate course on digital photography is also being planned.

In order to gauge demand, please phone Michael (on 673 443), sign up on the list in the Hall, or email him at elphick@gmail.com. These courses will only start if people want them!

Slaley Film Club programme for the Autumn

The Film Club programme from September to December has now been finalised. As before, the £5 charge (£4 for pensioners & students, £2.50 for children) covers both the film and your supper. The films to be shown - selected by the organisers - are as follows (the film titles are linked to BBCi reviews where possible):

• Friday September 16th: "Spirited Away" (Certificate PG) An animated film that has been compared to "Alice in Wonderland", suitable for the over-7s ). This show will also see the public premiere of “Bill the Sheep”, the short film made in Slaley by an enthusiastic band of young people last July.
• Friday October 21st: "Whale Rider" (Certificate PG) A striking film in which a young Maori girl struggles against her grandfather’s traditional views. “Bill the Sheep” will be shown again for those who missed it in September.
• Friday November 18th: "The Life & Death of Colonel Blimp" (Certificate U) Made in 1942, with marvellous performances by Roger Livesey, Deborah Kerr and Anton Walbrook, this is a film that defends the old against the young.
• Friday December 16th: "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" (Certificate 12) George Clooney as you’ve never seen him before, in a combination of bluegrass music, comedy and fantasy, set in the Deep South, and loosely based on Homer’s 'Odyssey'.

In December, we are also planning to review the past year's programme, report on the financial situation, and gather your views on the future running of the Club.

Full results for the 146th Slaley Show

As most people know, the 146th Slaley Show enjoyed a marvellous sunny day (apart from a heavy but brief shower). We will shortly publish some of the pictures, taken on the day by both Shona Brannigan and Janis Irvine, in a later item.

Just in case you need to check up on the results, a full list of all cups, trophies and prizes as well as first, second and third awards are available here (as a 14 page PDF document).

The making of "Bill the Sheep"

Last Wednesday (July 27th) saw the start of Slaley's first home-grown film, when Marc McKiernan and Vicky Jones of the Haltwhistle Film Project brought together 20 young people from Slaley (and as far afield as Chipchase) to make "An Advert in a Day". The original suggestion for this event came from the Queen's Hall Arts development group, who have provided support and initial funding for the regular film club sessions here.

The group soon decided on a short advert promoting Slaley, from the point of view of "Bill the Sheep".

Guided by Mark and Vicky, they developed a storyboard, wrote gags, created a soundtrack and voice-overs, filmed live action sequences around the village, and made some short animations. Each of these tasks were managed by small groups, often working on their own.

Finally everyone got together to look at the sequences and to decide which sections would be included in the final version. However five hours was never going to be enough to complete the whole job! The final editing and production will be completed by Mark and Vicky back in Haltwhistle, who will then deliver the finished film on DVD for distribution to anyone interested. It will also be shown on the next film night here in Slaley, so put that date (Friday September 16th) in your diaries!

STOP PRESS! The DVDs have now arrived, and the result is a great success for everyone involved (especially the sequence in the bar of the Rose & Crown)!
Get in touch with Michael Elphick if you would like to have your own copy.

Anyone who took part (and indeed anyone else) can also add comments to this item: just click on the link labelled "Comments" at the foot of the page . . .

The 146th Slaley Show is coming!

Fingers are being crossed in the hope of good weather for this year's Slaley Show on Saturday August 13th (the Show was unfortunately cancelled last year due to a waterlogged field).

Entries to the various sections, from Vegetables, Poultry, Industrial and Floral Art, may see mixed results this year due to the summer’s strange weather patterns, but it's the atmosphere generated by the entrants within the Slaley Parish and from as far afield as Yorkshire and Cumbria (a regular occurrence) which make it a fun day out for all the family - as in ‘its not the winning it’s the entering’ joviality of it all.

And this year’s event shows the welcome return of more livestock. Three cattle farmers from Slaley will be showing their Highland, Dairy Shorthorn and British Blond Aquitaine beasts in a special exhibition area, and a new alpaca section has been introduced following the successful showing of the animals at the Northumberland County Show. Alpaca secretary Vicki Ridley, who lives in Slaley, is keen to show off her three new cria’s (baby alpacas) who were born earlier this year.

Special attractions this year include Taffy Thomas the Storyteller, Young Farmers demonstrations, vintage vehicles, side-saddle demonstrations, quoits, the Five Rivers Brass Band and the Haydon Hunt Hounds Parade. The craft tent will also hold special demonstrations from lacemakers, spinners and weavers.

Although the show opens early in the morning for the staging of exhibits and judging, much of the days attractions and events begin at midday; the Horse and Pony section at the lower end of the field is viewable all day. The Dog show, as ever, attracts a large numbers of entrants to these classes, most notably the qualifying classes which will be ‘judged on’ for the Cock o’ the North qualifier.

Another first for the show is the instigation of an ‘artist in residence‘ post supported by the Arts Outreach Programme, Queens Hall, Hexham. This year’s artist Andrew Morley is a caricaturist whose quick fire humorous chalk pastel sketches will capture the atmosphere of the day. The body of his work will be staged in an exhibition later in the year by the organising committee, and artists interested in next year’s event are being invited to attend this year’s show.

This will be the 146th show organised, if not eventually run. Other cancellations have understandably been in the war years, and in more recent times for foot and mouth, but what initially started as a pot plant competition organised by the local vicar has captivated visitors from far and wide over the years.

Directions: from Newcastle the show will be signposted from the A69/A68 roundabout near Corbridge, turning south on the A68 towards Kiln Pit Hill and then right at the Slaley signpost.

Entrance Adults £4 Concessions £2 Children free
Free parking

Useful numbers: Secretary Vicky Hutchinson on 01434 673782

Ladycross Nature Reserve-Red Kites Talk

A KITE'S TAIL - THE NORTHERN KITES PROJECT. A talk and slideshow by Keith Bowey, RSPB.

April 27th, Slaley Commemoration Hall, 7.30 pm.
Everyone welcome to this talk about the reintroduction of red kites into the Derwent Valley.

Film show for March

This next month’s film (showing on Friday 18th March, at 7.30 pm in the Commemoration Hall) is “Bend It Like Beckham” (certificate 12). A comedy about bending the rules to reach your goal, this film explores the world of women's football, from kick-abouts in the park to freekicks in the Final. Set in Hounslow, West London and Hamburg, the film follows two 18 year olds with their hearts set on a future in professional soccer. One of the stars is Parminder Nagra, who you may recognise as Dr. Neela from the TV series "ER".

As before, the £5 charge (£4 for pensioners & students, £2.50 for children) covers both the film and your supper. The refreshments this time will have an Indian theme.

Ladycross Nature Reserve

Here is an update on forthcoming activities :

Wednesday, February 23rd - 7.30pm - Slaley Commemoration Hall
Dr Brian Young, British Geological Survey, will present an Introduction to the Local Geology - with slides

Wednesday, March 23rd - 7.30pm Slaley Commemmoration Hall
Colin Jewitt will give a talk, with slides, on local wildlife : Signs of Wildlife

Wednesday, April 27th - Friends of Ladycross AGM, followed by illustrated talk by Keith Bowey of the Northern Red Kite Project - this is a rare opportunity to hear directly from the man in charge. Details to follow.

Newsletter
The latest Newsletter for Friends of Ladycross is due soon - suggestions and contributions can be sent to Colin Jewitt at Ladycross Quarry or by e-mail to Bill Monck at: bilneth@monckwithac.fsnet.co.uk

Ladycross Web Site
View the latest updates to the web site at : www.ladycrossnaturereserve.org.uk
Ladycross Quarry Web Site : www.vizual4u.co.uk/ladycross.htm

This month's picture shows the the moorland track from Ladycross to Pennypie House and Blanchland

Film Show for February

This next month’s film (showing on Friday 18th February, at 7.30 pm in the Commemoration Hall) is “The Story of the Weeping Camel”. But don’t be put off! Despite its title, this has been called “a joyous movie”, telling the story of a family of nomadic herders, and of their camel, which gives birth to a rare white calf and refuses to nurse it. One reviewer says:

“I believe this film would be fascinating for smart children, maybe the same ones who liked ‘Whale Rider’, because so much of it is told through the eyes of the younger brother. Although the desert society is alien to everything we know, in another way it is instantly understandable, because we know about parents and grandparents, about working to put food on the table, about the need of babies to nurse. Here is a film that is about life itself, and about those few humans who still engage it at first hand.”

Following a trial last month, we are also changing entrance fees, so that the £5 charge (£4 for pensioners & students) covers both the film and your supper.

Dates for future shows in 2005 have now been fixed; they are:

Friday, 18th February, 2005 “The Story of the Weeping Camel”

Friday, 18th March, 2005 “Bend it like Beckham”

Friday, 22nd April, 2005

Friday, 20th May, 2005

Friday, 16th September, 2005

Friday, 21st October, 2005

Friday, 18th November, 2005

Friday, 16th December, 2005

The Parish Plan and Community Trust

All residents of Slaley Parish are invited to the Commemoration Hall for a chat with drinks and nibbles on Friday 4 February at 7pm for an hour and a half or longer if you want to stay. And it’s free!

The object of the evening is to hear from the Parish Council what has been achieved by it since the Parish Plan was adopted a year ago and to launch the Community Trust for which everyone has been waiting for so long. The objective of the Community Trust planned by a group of residents is, quite simply, to help promote the quality of life in Slaley Parish for everyone.

Membership will be open to all residents and we hope that you will come along to learn all about it. There is a lot going on already but a great willingness to do more to make Slaley an even greater place to live. On Friday 4 February at 7pm you can find out what is planned and don’t forget it’s free and only for an hour and a half or for a little longer if you want to stay. Put it in your diary.

Ladycross Winter Talks

The new season of Ladycross Nature Reserve talks starts on :
Wednesday, October 27th.
The first talk is given by Pat Thompson, of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds - "The work of the RSPB in the North east of England".

Please make a note in your diary : Slaley Commemoration Hall, 7.30 pm

Slaley Film Club

The main feature on Friday 22nd October 2004 is Troy, directed by Wolfgang Petersen and starring Brad Pitt (Achilles), Brian Cox (Agamemnon), Eric Bana (Hector) and Diane Kruger (Helen).
We are also showing a short film (thanks to Larry Winger of Northumbrian Music Nights) about a trip to Sweden by a group of young musicians from Northumberland, where they played with young Swedish traditional musicians, as part of the SNAP (Sweden North Pennines Adventure) project.
Future shows will take place on the third Friday of each month, and the programme arranged so far will be as follows (all film titles are linked to entries in the Internet Movie Database, a mine of information about everything to do with the cinema).

Friday, 19th November, 2004 Amelie (Certificate 15)
"Amelie, a young and innocent girl with her own distinctive way of looking at the world, decides to help the people living in her part of Paris to find love. "

Friday, 17th December, 2004 Cinderella (Certificate U)
"Friendly mice and birds and a fairy Godmother help an oppressed woman escape by helping her meet an eligible prince. "

Friday, 21st January, 2005 Love, Actually (Certificate 15)
"Follows the lives of eight very different couples in dealing with their love lives in various loosely and interrelated tales all set during a frantic month before Christmas in London. "

Friday, 18th February, 2005 (To be selected)

Friday, 18th March, 2005 (To be selected)

Friday, 15th April, 2005 (To be selected)

Friday, 20th May, 2005 (To be selected)

As you will see, we have still to choose four films for 2005: help us to select them by sending your suggestions to Michael Elphick. This website will carry updated information about the programme, and the films to be shown.

Another amusing website is the Four Word Film Review, which includes the following brief reviews:

Troy "Time wounds all heels"
Amelie "French girl strikes matches"
Cinderella "Cindy follows foot prince"

The Slaley film show!

Friday night, September 3rd, sees a trial film show in the Hall, using the digital film projector provided by the Queen’s Hall in Hexham. The main feature of the film show in the Commemoration Hall tonight is “Moulin Rouge” (given a 15-certificate). Admission is £2.50 on the door, and refreshments will be available.
If it proves successful, the organisers need to know what other films you would like to see. How about a midweek afternoon show, or a kid’s Saturday morning?

Slaley Show Saturday 14th August

As you may have seen from the Courant and other newspapers, the 145th Slaley Show has had to be cancelled. However, the Children's section ONLY will now take place in the Commemoration Hall; the children's pet section HAS been cancelled.
Entries will be welcome from 8 am until 10 at the Hall. Judging will take place from 10.15 until 12.15. The main hall will be closed while judging takes place, reopening at 12.15 pm. Prize money will be available from 2 pm onwards, and light refreshments will be served throughout the day. The new bunting and the Show banner will be displayed.
Please come along to the Hall and support the children's efforts - no entry charge, of course!

Daffodil Day at Slaley School

As an end-of-term celebration Slaley school are holding a Daffodil Day on Wednesday 31st March, from 2 to 3.30 pm. The aim is to be able to send a cheque to Korongoni primary school in Tanzania, to help them buy the kind of basic materials that we take for granted. Our school already corresponds with Korongoni and this last Wednesday two Tanzanian teachers visited Slaley. It is hoped that children will wear something yellow (they don’t need to wear uniforms).
There will be a cake stall, so please send a cake (or buy one) and something for the bring and buy stall. Please support this worthwhile event: if anyone needs a lift or further information just ring Christine Milligan on 673592.