MEMBERS of ST JAMES' CHURCH decided some time ago to mark our Patronal Festival - St James' Day - in the middle of May in 2009, instead of at the end of July, when everyone's thoughts are set on summer holidays. So mid-way between the two May bank-holidays we arranged St James' Festival Weekend.

On Saturday 9^th, we held our Spring Fair. In the past this has been an every-other-year event, but the gap had stretched to three years, so it was important not to miss 2009.  Peter Hartley bravely stepped up to the mark to get things organised and by the time we had packed everything away after an enjoyable afternoon of hard work, we counted around 50 people who had been drawn in to offer their assistance, skills and enthusiasm. We filled both the Village Hall and the Youth Centre with stalls and activities for people of all ages from 0 to 90+, and, thanks to some warm spring sunshine, were able to offer refreshments al fresco in the open space between. We were pleased with the sum of £1,700 which was raised, and which we traditionally share for the work of St James School and the Church. Our thanks are due to everyone who sent in goods for sale or who came along to support us as our customers.

The following day, 10^th May, and still in bright sunshine, we set off from the Church at noon on a 'Family Walk over Three Commons': Pot Common, Elstead Common and Hankley Common. We stopped at the Moat for a picnic, then on past Truxford,  down across the golf course to the River Wey and back to St James' Church. Again, over 50 people joined in, many as family groups, and including people from Aldershot and Farncombe. Whilst the 10-kilometre walk was not a race, it has to be admitted that several young people 'showed us the way round' - Patrick, Sheridan and Michael, fit from D.ofE. training at Rodborough were first back, followed by 11 year-olds Bella and Ellie. One enterprising family set off a bit late then went back for their bikes and proceeded to go right through the field to come in 3^rd!!! On our return a welcome glass of squash or cup of tea awaited everyone.

Only then, as thirst wore off, stiffness and fatigue set in and we began to contemplate a hearty supper and an easy evening ahead, did the realisation dawn that Christian Aid Week was upon us. Soon, we'd be up and on our feet again, together with numbers of our neighbours, trying to raise money in every road in Elstead. A timely reminder that so many of  the people we were collecting for lead lives typified by exhausting toil, unsafe drinking water, insufficient food and poor health.