Village Life
CHRISTMAS-DAY IN THE VILLAGE
was one of general enjoyment. The lovers of skating disported themselves on the ice large numbers during the early part the day. Others attended divine service the Parish Churob, which was very prettily decorated for the occasion the ladies of the parish, with other willing helpers. The baud perambulated the village, playing sacred music in a very creditable manner. Towards evening several parties of carol singers went on their rounds, as did also the drum and fife band. and the bells in the Church tower rang merry peals.
On Sunday torrent 9 of rain descended during the greater part of the day, snow fell very heavily at night, to the depth of about a foot, and rendering travelling very difficult on Boxing-day.
On Tuesday evening, December 28th, a tea and service of song entitled ‘ Three Christmas Eves,” were given connection with the Perseverance Society the Schoolroom. About 150 persons sat down to tea, the ladies presiding at the tables being—Mrs. A. L. Smith, Miss Summerfield, Miss Mary Dodge, Miss Agnes Holt, Miss Shepherd, Miss Coleman, Miss Faulkner, Mrs. Benson, Mrs. Shillingford. Mrs. Tack, Mrs. Read, Mrs. Whiting, Mrs. Jones, Mrs. Ivens. Mrs. Rickard, Mrs. Fennemore, and Mrs. Sacre. The tea was provided from the Vicarage. The committee Messrs. J. Parradine, T. Thorpe, G. Braggins, A. Beckett, W. Sacre, and R. Bryant—also assisted in supplying the company with bread and butter, tea. cake, &c. After the repast the tables were removed, and the entertainment commenced with a short address by the Vicar, the Rev. A. L. Smith, which he referred to the objects of the Perseverance Society as, firstly, to promote the glory of God; secondly, to help each other persevere Christian life: and thirdly, for mutual encouragement improvement in all respects. The rev. gentleman said it was the last of these objects that they were carrying out that evening, and it was through the efforts of the young men of the village that that evening’s amusement was provided, and before the singing commenced, he would wish them one and all A happy New Year.” The service of song was then sung very creditable style by the members of the Society, assisted by the Girls’ Friendly Society, and a few members of the Church choir. Mr. Geo. Jackman was the conductor, and the Rev. A. L. Smith read the connective readings. Mrs. Smith ably presided the harmonium during the evening. The Schoolroom was decorated with evergreens, leaves, and looked pretty.
Bucks Herald – Saturday 01 January 1887
