To rain, or not to rain…. or maybe both? That was one question we were asking ourselves as we awoke to a murky day on Sunday 8th September. Another was whether we would have sufficient seats for everyone turning up for this very special service. Apart from some rain just before the service started, we were fortunate on both counts - our organisers and ushers managed to fit 147 people, from the village and wider community, into our church! The font and chancel displays were filled with beautiful flowers from local gardens, and thanks to Jamie’s meticulous planning and a team of hard-working helpers (both in the lead-up to and on the day), the day went like clockwork. And that’s no mean feat, as it was not just to celebrate the new breadstone, but also Great Wishford Primary School’s tercentenary, and was a memorial to our late Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee. It was a real pleasure to see many faces from the past among those trooping into the church.
The event started with a service of celebration and thanksgiving, led by the Bishop of Ramsbury. Then everyone gathered outside for the unveiling of the newest breadstone by HM Lord-Lieutenant of Wiltshire, Mrs Sarah Rose Troughton, flanked by members of the 1st Wilton Scout Group and the Royal British Legion, and accompanied by the Mayor and Mayoress of Wilton. Anna’s wonderful curtain functioned perfectly, and the breadstone for 2022 was revealed. The Lord-Lieutenant was presented with a bunch of flowers and a commemorative bread board, designed by Caroline, to give to His Majesty - hope it got to him ok….
From there, we crossed over the road for a drinks reception in the school hall, where people were thanked, and lots of glasses of fizz, donated by the Oak Apple Club, and wine were raised in a toast (other beverages were available…). Outside, long tables and benches had been set up and a hog roast with cole slaw and salad prepared, courtesy of the Parish Council. And the sun came out - perfect for enjoying one of Joanna’s ices! Morris Dancers completed the idyllic picture.
Those with more stamina than yours truly then went off to the Royal Oak who had put on a special Breadstone beer tap - a lovely end to a very convivial day.
Yvonne Allen
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