On Saturday the 8th September Ellen McConnell once again very generously hosted a coffee afternoon at her home. On offer was an amazing array of her delicious home baked scones, cakes and biscuits. In addition there were jars of her home made jams, preserves, cakes and so much more. The Bric a Brac tables proved to be very popular as did the card stall which did a roaring trade selling hand made cards curtesy of Lin and Chris. A raffle and guess the number of jelly babies helped to boost funds too. David’s woodworking skills were greatly admired and he sold out of garden windmills and now has a commission to construct another. Freshly picked garden produce and plants completed the offering.

A huge thank you to Ellen who worked tirelessly to make the day a massive success in bringing the community together. Also thanks to the many helpers and not least everyone who came along and gave their support.

At the latest count the event has boosted Church Funds by more than £550.

Over 40 people gathered at a coffee morning hosted by Ellen McConnell on May 18th, which raised a whopping £275.00 for badly needed church funds. In addition to an amazing array of cakes and superb coffee, there was a bric-à-brac stall, beautiful hand made cards made by Lyn and Chris of Lincoln Fields and a great raffle. Thanks to Ellen’s networks in the village and further afield, as well as her community spirit, the event brought together people from a number of local villages, which was something that many people commented was particularly enjoyable – for local villagers especially since there are few opportunities to meet together. Our church is the only public building in the village, and the newly formed ‘Friends of Billingsley’ are looking at ways to use the church facilities for community activities and events, as well as keeping it open for worship.