Despite a rather ominous downpour at lunchtime, by the afternoon the weather turned fine for Cottingham Day, and it was wonderful to see so many people coming to St Mary’s and taking part in our Cottingham Day activities. The Eclectic Wind Orchestra gave an excellent concert, the book stall had a better selection than some bookshops, the jigsaw stall had something for everyone; many teddies sailed down from the tower and received their certificate of bravery; young crafters were busy making things in the Mark Kirby Hall, there were games in the churchyard courtesy of Label of Love, and the Arlington Hall was an oasis of calm with tea and plenty of delicious cakes. I think we did a wonderful job of welcoming our community on Cottingham Day — and particularly of offering all our activities either free or for a very low cost. That’s really important to people who are feeling the pinch, and I hope it shows that St Mary’s is a place of generous hospitality. I hope, too, that we can do it again next year!
with my prayers and blessings, Nicola