A wonderful St Barnabas Day and Queen’s Jubilee celebrations were combined and were opened by Ven. Andy Wooding-Jones the Archdeacon of Rochester opened with a prayer and welcomed everyone to the Jubilee celebrations.
Mary Porter the organiser and loyal team of volunteers of the event said “We had a brilliant committee to bring the celebrations together – we muddle through just like the war years and the menu wasn’t on ration this time!”.
Revd. David Scott playing the piano and giving a history on her Majesty the Queen reign sung various songs such as It’s a long way to tipperary, you’re never walk alone, pack up your troubles and you raise me up amongst many others. Clare Neve-Scott (daughter) complemented him by providing the vocals. The entertainment went down really well with much flag waving and aplomb, providing much cheer and smiles amongst the guests and the children wore the crowns they had been decorating. Thanks to Emily Holmes and Clare King for organising the children arts and crafts which included themed pebbles and bookmarks Jubilee themed.
Around 86 guests including families and friends attended across the two parishes of St Barnabas, Istead Rise and St Nicholas of Southfleet.
The food included the traditional coronation chicken that the queen had at the banquet for her coronation in 1953.
Mary Porter “We were blessed with the food that people provided for us to make the celebration so special – a big thank you to everyone and God Save The Queen!”.
At the end a toast and three cheers was given to her Majesty to celebrate her reign.
The Istead Rise WI also hosted a Jubilee coffee morning. It was well attended by local residents who enjoyed unlimited tea and coffee together with delicious homemade cakes and scones with jam and cream.
The Art Group exhibited some of their artwork which was admired by everyone. For fun, there was a raffle and ‘Find The Crown Jewels’ game which was won by Janet Jones.
