Page 39 - May 2020 parish mag_Classical

Marchington Woodlands Village Hall Update
Arrangements were all in place for the Spring Supper on Saturday 14 March.
Although mass gatherings were still allowed and social distancing had not been
introduced at that point, it was pretty clear from the daily stream of COVID-19 news
items that the government would be taking more drastic measures to protect everyone
and especially the most vulnerable.
The question had to be asked – should we think about cancelling? We had to bear in
mind that a number of attendees were aged over 70 and there were also a number
with “pre-existing health issues”.
After consultations between Committee members and final checks on soap and
handwash supplies (did we have sufficient to meet demand throughout the evening?),
the event went ahead as planned.
There was no music or other entertainment. Those who attended the Spring Supper
came along for the meal (first and second helpings!) and the camaraderie. It was a
lovely occasion for simply chatting to friends, neighbours and fellow Woodlanders.
The Committee is grateful to everyone who bought tickets and supported the village
hall and would like to thank Jean Gallimore for the wonderful food.
A raffle was held during the evening that raised £175.10. Proceeds were donated to
Midlands Air Ambulance. The charity operates and funds three air ambulances and
two critical care cars serving the communities of six Midlands counties, including
Staffordshire. Fortunately for us in this area, one of the lifesaving helicopters is
stationed just a few miles away at Tatenhill.
On the subject of emergency services, I should give a mention to Shropshire,
Staffordshire and Cheshire Blood Bikes, which provided a speaker at Woodlands
WI’s January meeting. Their volunteer riders are front-line in this current crisis,
facing protection issues themselves as they move Corona Virus samples around the
country and vital PPE equipment between hospitals.
Although supporting and enhancing our NHS, neither charity receives government
funding.
But, back to the village hall….

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