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The village turned out in force to give our oldest resident John Smith, a grand farewell at the Internment of Ashes, in Syresham Churchyard. John, who had spent most of his long life in Biddlesden, will be much missed by us all, but especially Poodle Mickey, who lived next door and visited him regularly following the loss of his devoted and much-loved Jack Russell Billy. Although sadly John’s health declined in recent years he liked to keep up with current affairs and no doubt kept his band of lovely carers on their toes. When in better health he was always interested in the village, grew and shared his vegetables, and for years mowed the Churchyard. I can well remember, many years ago, him pushing his mother all the way to Hangman’s Tree and back in her wheel chair. When the tree was replaced… Years on, as guest of honour, he was getting out of his own wheel chair, waving his Union Jack, to wield the spade to cut the first sod to plant our Platinum Jubilee Tree to mark the late Queen’s Accession to the Throne…. and then being very delighted that the traffic was halted so that he could be pushed safely across the bridge to join everyone for the Celebratory Afternoon Tea at Balfour Cottage.
He especially loved Christmas and was always first to get his lights up in his window. November 1st always seemed to be a good date and serve as a timely reminder to the rest of us…. John also loved the snowdrops… and next Spring will hopefully see a few new bulbs appearing around the village in his memory.
Thanks to all who braved the weather to attend our beautiful Harvest Festival. It really could not have been wetter…but obviously we are a tough lot…no one complained and everyone just kept smiling and getting soaked to the skin.
A request for any living relatives of Johnny Hambourne, buried in Biddlesden Churchyard to please contact Carole, 01280 850677.
This is the time of year when grateful and heartfelt thanks are expressed to all who keep our Church open, be it cleaning, decorating, playing the Harmonium, mowing the Churchyard etc. or simply just turning up for a service – wishing you all a Very Happy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year.
