Pailton Branch Rugby Conservative Association held a meeting on 29th March to re-establish the branch under its new affiliation with the recently-formed Rugby Parliamentary Constituency.
The meeting was held in Monks Kirby at the home of the acting chairholder Mrs. Kay Pechal who welcomed the many members from the surrounding communities. A new committee was formed who expressed their unanimous approval for the appointment of the Earl of Denbigh as the newly elected branch chairman. Reports from local government were submitted by Cllrs P. Morris-Jones, N. Campbell and A. Gillias and a presentation was made by the recently adopted prospective Conservative Parliamentary Candidate, Cllr Mark Pawsey who emphasised the importance of having active branches established throughout all parts ofthis large constituency.
Following the bleak and emotive church services of Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, Holy Communion was held on Easter Sunday at St. Denis Church. The service was conducted by the Reverend Beth Smith who welcomed the large congregation to a celebration made more joyful by the warm spring sunshine. In her address she gave due credit to the ladies of the parish who had decorated the church so beautifully for the occasion.
On Saturday 14th April the parish council organised the annual litter pick which attracted a worthy team of volunteers who undertook this vital task with characteristic vigour. After completing the work the participants congregated at the home of Ruth and Denis Bilson for well earned refreshments.
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On Sunday 15th April the traditional Daffodil Sunday adopted a new and enlarged concept in aid of the Friends of the Revel Churches in association with Newnham Paddox Art Park and Education 4 Conservation Limited as a major fund-raising event.
It was staged at Newnham Paddox by kind permission of the Earl and Countess of Denbigh who had made their extensive grounds available for this important occasion. The unseasonably warm sunshine conferred an added pleasure to families enjoying the numerous attractions which included craft shops, exhibitions, workshops, a produce stall, play areas, hog roast, a large tea tent, even wolves, all tastefully located throughout the beautiful parkland admired by all. Live events included singing and country dancing displays with the ever-popular Bilton Silver Band providing the key musical attraction throughout the afternoon.
The Rector of the Revel parishes, the Reverend Christine Garrod, participated in many of the activities and declared it to be a most enjoyable and successful event.
In financial terms the day’s activities indicated a promising return on the considerable efforts invested in the enterprise. In social terms the opportunity for our widespread Revel communities to mix together on this happy and purposeful occasion became the most rewarding experience of all.
Phillip Morris-Jones