By Gilbert
NocklesWelcome to the first Newsletter for 2007.
The decorations are packed up, family feuds resolved, and hangovers cured. The waistlines have expanded, gym memberships put on hold and the New Year resolutions dim distant memories or in the pending tray.
In this, The Lee’s premier literary organ, mouthpiece for the community and source of juicy gossip, if you are lucky, we have something for everyone… the old, young, sporty, churchgoer, singer, countryman, townie, yuppie, Uncle Tom Cobbley and all. Tim Hart shares with us progress on the project in Sri Lanka, Marilyn Burrows tells us about Alex’s adventures in Dar Es Salaam and Jules Swain is the first local footballer to visit the new Wembley Stadium. There is a report on the Newsletter Dinner and a tribute to Margaret Richardson, retiring headteacher at Lee Common School. We have our first book review and a fascinating article from Reina Free.
Reviewing the articles and features I was struck by the tremendous activity here. All that entertains, interests and amuses us is part of the rich pageant of our semi-rural lives. We take it for granted but many of the millions who watch Midsomer Murders would happily swap their lives inside the M25 for what we enjoy every day.
So here is the New Year message. Everyone has a talent, skill or interest. For those whom we read about in this issue, “wow, well done, keep going”; to everyone else, get involved and contribute. All are welcome – newcomers (up to 25 years residence) and the well established (four or five generations). It is time to jettison the grumpy old man and moan of the month and celebrate the great things that are going on here and ensure our community thrives and grows.
Best wishes for 2007. May the best of last year be the worst for the coming twelve months.
Next month’s copy should be sent to Viv Robins.