John Anderson, chairman of Hambledon Parish Council, contributes this week’s Sunday Reflection.

Under normal circumstances, at this time of year, the Parish Council would be welcoming Hambledonians to the Annual Parish Assembly and listening to updates from all the Village organisations.  However, this is not a normal year.  This year is very different, and yet, somehow it is the same, in the sense that our Village organisations are, as ever, delivering exemplary services to the Parish.

I have said many times that in any walk of life, it is people that matter.  We are seeing the people of this village working together to help and support each other and particularly those who are isolated and unable to get out.

The Shop is doing sterling work, taking orders and filling boxes to be delivered throughout the Parish, with the aid of a band of enthusiastic volunteers to drive supplies around.

St Peter’s Church is supporting villagers by making calls and offering acts of kindness.  St Dominic’s School remains open for those pupils who need to be there, and the Nursery School is ready to reopen as soon as allowed to do so. Work on the maintenance of the Village Hall continues, even while it is closed, so that it too will be ready to open as soon as possible.

The Village Fete committee continue to plan for a wonderful fete weekend, albeit postponed to September.  The Merry Harriers is also supporting villagers.  Furthermore, the grass on the Cricket Green has had its first cut – so it too will be ready when needed.  The Village is indeed vibrant and connected, and we are all so fortunate to be part of it.

At the same time, we join together to mourn the loss of Mary Caroe, taken from us by this dreadful disease.  She was a stalwart of the village and will be sorely missed by long-term village residents and new arrivals alike, for Mary made sure she met up with all of us throughout the years.  She exemplified the community spirit of this village and would be the first to say “get on with it”.

So, thank you, Hambledonians, for all your hard work, your generous spirit and your kindnesses in this most strange and challenging time.  Your efforts and your clear love of the village are so appreciated.

John Anderson