Whatlington

A SAD FAREWELL: The funeral took place on Tuesday 18 September of our dear friend Albert McBride. A packed Whatlington church enjoyed a very moving service delivered by our own vicar Kevin Mepham. I'm sure Albert would have loved the opening hymn ' I cannot tell why' sung to the tune of the Londonderry Air. His brother Robin told us about many of the hardships of their family's early life in Ireland and how Albert had worked hard to build a very successful career for himself, with his love of golf always at the centre of it. Nikki read a very moving letter of condolence from one of Albert's close friends, which I hope was of great comfort to Annette. The service concluded with the uplifting hymn 'How great thou art'. Following the service family and friends attended a private committal at Hastings Crematorium before going to Leeford Place in Whatlington for a buffet lunch. Annette would like to thank all at Leeford Place and her family and friends who have helped and supported her during the last few difficult weeks. The village will miss Albert.

PARISH CHURCH NEWS: Our Harvest Festival Songs of Praise at Whatlington last Sunday saw a good number of people join together to sing harvest hymns, listen to readings and poems and stay afterwards to enjoy the lovely spread of food for the Harvest Buffet meal.

There were also many gifts of food brought to the service, these will be taken to a centre in St. Leonards for people on the margins of society.

Our service next week will be an 9.15am Holy Communion and NOT as previously suggested a 10.30 Unitedservice.