It was suggested that it would be a great idea to hold a community celebration on 29th April to commemorate the Royal Wedding. This initial idea has been developed further by a group, coordinated by the Parish Council, and representing many local clubs, societies and organisations (including Scouts, the Old School, the Sports and Social Club, Ducklings, WI, Flower Show, Parish Church, WOW, Friends of Stoke Climsland Church, Gardening Club, School, School PTA, Duchy College and Local History Group).
Fund raising got off to an excellent start with, at the time of writing, just over £600 has pledged in donations, which will go a long way towards the cost of the marquee that is going to be hired. We hope that the rest of the money will be raised via the Grand Draw (see below), tickets for which are on sale NOW. Look out for them as there are some wonderful prizes donated by local people and businesses. Every one you buy will help fund the celebration which, as far as possible, will be free.
We would like to make this event as inclusive as possible and are considering providing transport for those (elderly, infirmed) who might otherwise not be able to make it. If you know anyone who might like such assistance, please let Louise or Deri know.
R egular updates will be given on the Parish noticeboards, in the OSN and on this website.

The programme for the 3 days is given below. Some of the timings might change between now and then, so look out for up-to-date news on this website and on Parish noticeboards.

Friday April 29th 2011

Events at the Old School
9.00-11.00: Come along and enjoy a pre-wedding breakfast in the café area.
11.00-1.30: Watch the Wedding Ceremony on the Big Screen in the Main Hall.

Church Bells
Celebratory peals will be rung on the Church bells between 10.30 and 11.00 and 2.00 and 2.30.

Events on the Green
2.00-2.30: All food (finger food only please) to be brought to the Marquee on the Green.
2.30-4.00: Celebratory tea in the Marquee.
2.30-3.30: Children’s games, bouncy castle and more on the Green.
4.00: Grand Draw in the Marquee.
2.00-4.00: Bar (provided by the Sports and Social Club).
6.30-8.30: Fred Stuart’s Band.
9.00-11.00: METS
7.00-11.00: Bar open.
Throughout the evening: Barbeque.

Saturday 30th April 2011

10.00-4.00: The Flower Festival will open in the church. This special Wedding themed festival will feature beautiful flower arrangements and displays of Wedding dresses belonging to people in the village. Many decades will be represented and will provide fascinating examples of the changing styles of dress.

1pm to 4pm. The Church Fete will be officially opened by Revd Peter Sharpe and prizes will be presented to children from Stoke Climsland School who have won the poster colouring competition. The marquee will be packed with all your favourite stalls – cakes, books, plants, crafts, toys, silent auction, tombola and of course Edna’s emporium. There will be lots of games for adults and children alike. For those of you who have been lucky enough to have had a lie-in following Friday’s Royal Wedding celebrations, the BBQ will be serving brunch rolls. The Parish Hall will be open for teas and the Sports Club will be providing a bar. A great opportunity for an afternoon of relaxation and fun!

6pm-10pm: Watch out for news on Notice Boards for possible activity in the Marquee on the Green.

Sunday May 1st 2011

10.00-4pm: The Flower Festival continues in the church.

11.15am. The church will host a special Service of Celebration and Thanksgiving for Marriage. The whole community are warmly invited, especially anyone who has been married in Stoke Climsland church. Coffee and biscuits will be served after the service.