Big Thursday

Thursday the 24th was a busy day, one way and another....

Music for Memory

The morning saw us making a visit to a new group at Oakley village hall.  Led by local musician and music therapist Jeni Melia, Music for Memory was a lively session including instrumental participation, ensemble singing and circle dancing. We hope to make this a regular trip for residents and their supporters.

Tales of the Riverbank

In the afternoon a group of us went out on the Bedford community boat, The John Bunyan, making the trip out through Cardington lock, (a bit of a tight squeeze, we were warned that a bump was almost inevitable!)  Once through it we were in to the wilder, greener reaches of the great Ouse. Marion remarked that it was a bit like African Queen, and that she would be Katherine Hepburn! (A debate then ensued about who would play Humphrey Bogart.)  The boat is crewed by enthusiastic volunteers, and is well worth supporting. They run public trips throughout the summer, and the boat can be hired for parties.

We arrived back at Priory Marina at five o'clock, and taxis brought us back home for about quarter to six, just in time for supper.

The boat ready to take on passengers at Priory Marina.

Going below decks on the lift.

We're all ready for departure

Entering Cardington Lock.  Everybody breathe in.

The wide green yonder...

Cheers!

We all know that community spirit is abundant in north Bedfordshire villages, but we were surprised and delighted to receive a donation from a local pub, the Cock at Pavenham, following a fundraising quiz on Thursday night. Thanks to the pub for hosting the evening, and all who participated.

Spring Tea

Saturday April the 12th was the date for our Spring Tea.  We invited family members to join us for tea and cake; an opportunity to meet up before the Easter weekend.

It was good to see so many visitors, and our volunteers arrived armed with the customary offerings of delicious cake and savoury treats. The marquee went up in the secret garden, but the weather, although fine, was still rather cool, so those who couldn't find seats in the dining room set up camp in the lounge.

We had a raffle of donated goodies.  It seems some people didn't want to leave things to chance, employing monopoly tactics when purchasing tickets!

 

We would like to say thank you to visitors, staff and our regular volunteers, we are very grateful for your support at these social events, it makes the day special for residents.

Stop Press!

 Later in the summer we shall be chartering the John Bunyan narrowboat again, so don't miss out, please make a note in your diary - Wednesday the 30th of July - it's the hottest ticket in town!

Sunday the 6th of April

A group of us went to St Peter's Church to attend a concert by Sharnbrook Gospel Choir. This was their first public concert, they were excited and perhaps a bit nervous, but it was thoroughly enjoyable, and the church was packed.

Sax in the Afternoon

On the 26th of March, we had a performance by Sandra Grant, playing the saxophone and singing and dancing.  Her energetic set comprised an uplifting and happy selection of songs concluding with Yakkety Sax, (the Benny Hill theme, for those of you who remember the Seventies!) and 'See you later Alligator'
Residents thoroughly enjoyed this, and demanded a return visit on the spot!

Spring Colour

The art group has started a new project looking at colour. We have been exploring the Tate Gallery's website, and we have begun some pieces inspired by the work of Patrick Heron.

Firstly we painted sheets of watercolour paper with vibrant colours, in order to get exactly the shade we want. The coloured papers are then cut and formed into collages.

A work in progress.

Evening Concert

One of our regular musicians, Jennie Small came perform for us on the 10th of March, residents enjoyed a selection of traditional folk songs, and a  few more classical pieces.