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St Edmund's Fete 2017
Owing to a torrential thunderstorm the afternoon session came abruptly to an end!
for more pics click the one above - photos by Su Leavesley (SL) and John Webster (JW)
Nevertheless the skies brightened and visitors began to gather for the evening session, eventually exceeding 150 to hear various performers: Elliott’s group ‘MODE’ making their last public appearance as the sun set in a clear sky and the full moon rose. The show ended on cue at 10.30 pm. Full details and acknowledgements will be published in the next Forncet Flyer.
- Details
- Written by: John Webster
Murder Mystery Feb 17
Photos of the Murder Mystery play 'Murder at the Village Hall' on Saturday and Sunday 18th and 19th February 2017.
Photos by Anne Frith and John Wilde
Click pic for slide show
Full cast list (from first photo):
Back Row: Sheila Gale (Prompt); John Wilde (Inspector Halfpenny); Sarah House (the late Lavinia, Lady Forncett, Chair of the Committee)
Front Row: April Carlin (Peggy); Peter Schmidt-Hansen (Norman); Gill Starkie (Saffron); Brian Frith (Reg); Jackie Smith (Millicent); Graham Gale (Hugo, Lord Forncett)
- Details
- Written by: Brian Frith
St Edmund's Fete August 2014
Click pic for slide show
Photos: John Webster
Last month's Flyer contained a number of photographs which illustrated the traditional nature of this now established and popular event in the summer calendar. Quite rightly no longer billed as mini-fete it continues to attract growing numbers of Forncett folk and people from neighbouring villages. I would like to thank Barry Bradford, John and Margaret Webster, the rest of the organising team and supporting cast of volunteers and stall holders that make this event happen. My own short stint on the bric-a-brac stall was really enjoyable as customers searched for bargains.
It is the wide range of stalls, games, cream teas and BBQ that make this fete a real family event. Where else could you search for hidden treasure in Forncett, enjoy a freshly cooked hot dog, buy local produce, pick up a bargain and meet friends and neighbours in a single afternoon. This year we also had several great old British motorbikes on display, including a restoration project for sale.
After a short break in proceedings to pack away the stalls for another year the BBQ was fired up again and the bar opened in readiness for the evening proceedings. It was great to see a large crowd including many families return to see local band 'Play' take to the stage. Whilst Barry's old trailer doesn't quite match the Pyramid stage at Glastonbury the band kept everyone entertained with their wide ranging repertoire. By the end of the evening many people had taken to their feet to dance to the music.
The fête and concert really brings the village together. I understand it succeeded in raising much needed funds for the project to install a kitchenette and toilet in St Edmund's church. Once completed this will provide a more user-friendly venue for further community gatherings.
- Details
- Written by: Philip Yull
St Edmund’s Summer Fête number 6
Now into its sixth year our local fête at Forncett End again proved a popular venue for locals and their families, keen to experience a traditional gathering where folk picked up real bargains at the extensive bric-a-brac stall, chose from a super selection of home-made cakes and pastries, as well as indulging in games of skill and chance, while listening to live music performed on the stage from afternoon to evening. Of course, refreshments were at the top of the menu: tasty burgers and sausages from local butchers, cream teas, and soft drinks or alcoholic ones – wine and beer.
All this on a really fantastic summer’s day and evening, when Elliot’s varied programme of musical items culminated with his vibrant group MODE performing with panache till the very end accompanied by a beautiful sunset. The committee will soon meet to discuss the event and verify the amount raised after deduction of the many expenses.
Margaret & John Webster
- Details
- Written by: Margaret & John Webster
St Mary's font comes home
photos by Richard Ball
When St. Mary's was closed in the early 1980's everything from the interior was removed or vandalised. The medieval font was given to the Roman Catholic Shrine at Houghton St. Giles, North Norfolk, where it remained for many years. After hearing of the restoration work and the 'Angels' Award last year the font was offered back to St. Mary's, being surplus to their requirements.
It was removed from the shrine in late 2015, and repaired and restored by stonemason Bruce Riley. On 27th May 2016 he installed the font back in the church. It is probable that the marble plinth is of the same type used in Norwich Cathedral.
Currently (June 2016) there are still many people alive who were christened in the font before it was removed.
- Details
- Written by: May Prior
Carols by Candlelight & Step into Christmas
photos by May Prior
A packed church enjoyed a lovely carol service in St. Mary's Church on 4th December. Philip Aldred and 'Dolce' choir performed 4 pieces, including everyone's favourite 'O Holy Night.' John Metcalf's stunning displays in the windows and font much admired by everyone. Mulled wine and mince pies were served in the village hall after the service.
For a few days in December, St Mary's Church was transformed into a mini theatre, with spotlights, coloured lights, mist and snow machines, for two performances of 'Step into Christmas.' Produced and directed by Paul Blake, (originally from Forncett), and his cast of 16, who have all previously performed in local amateur dramatic groups, most recently the Tasburgh Players before they folded in 2012.
Delighted packed audiences enjoyed a varied and fast moving show: from traditional carols and readings, to ' Santa Baby', 'Mistletoe and Wine' , 'As long as there's Christmas', and everyone's favourite, 'White Christmas'. A rousing finale of 'I wish it could be Christmas every day' had the audience clapping and singing along.
Solos and duets performed by Paul, Trevor, Sharon, Laura, Wendy, Sonia and 15 yr old Katie, readings by Sharon, John and Lenny, and the 'Tech Team' of Paul Smith on lighting and Neil Pitcher on sound made sure it was a perfect festive atmosphere.
A big thank you to them all for their hard work rehearsing in the weeks leading up to the performances, and setting up the church with all the equipment and decorations. All proceeds from the performances will go towards the restoration fund. Thanks to the Tas Well bar for being open for refreshments.
We look forward to the next show!
- Details
- Written by: May Prior
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