The Village of Wark

Before I report of the activities of last week, let me tell you about the exhibition, 100 Years in Pictures, the Local History Group is having in the Town Hall tomorrow, Saturday 13 December. The group is now in its second year and has gathered all sorts of stuff. You’ll find an exhibition of local photographs with special sections on the railway and the bridge. There will also be an opportunity to see the Historic Wark Atlas the group commissioned last year, together with the interesting range of old maps that came with that project.

They also have a section on trade and shops. The group has asked me to mention that if you have photos or documents you’re willing to share with the group, to please bring them along. ‘100 years in Pictures’ will be open between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. and teas and coffees will be available.

As I mentioned last week the Pensioners Christmas Dinner indeed did take place with just under 90 people in the Hall having an early taste of Christmas with local entertainment. Like with many of these large events in the village, the Christmas Dinner only happens because of the huge effort of a large number of people who willingly give their time. One of the very nice things is that some of the younger people helped out last week, waiting on tables. Thanks go to all of those who made the event such a success.

There was a very nice buzz to Saturday’s, St Michael’s Christmas Bazaar in the Hall. I noticed one youngster busy buying presents for mum and dad and I suppose there was really something for everyone. If you bought raffle tickets, you probably already know if you won anything, but there will be a list of winners in the Post Office. I haven’t yet heard how much money was raised for St Michael’s Church, but when I do, I’ll let you know.

That very same night, also on Saturday 6 December, to hall was filled again for the Christmas Extravaganza, in aid of ‘Lifespan’, a charity based at Minsteracres near Riding Mill. Somebody called it an ‘evening of old fashioned entertainment’ and everyone seemed to have enjoyed themselves. A huge amount of effort and rehearsal has gone into it by the organising group with members from both the village and further afield, and the rehearsal showed. In the process about £350 was raised for ‘Lifespan’.

I’ve been asked to mention the final amount of money raised at the Promise Auction in aid of Wark Recreational Charity as few weeks ago: a fantastic £2093.40. The committee wants to thank all those who donated ‘items, lots or donations’ and those who were there to buy them all.

Finally a reminder of the events in the village next week. First there’s the Bellingham Amateur Dramatic Society with their Christmas Review at the Hall on the 17th. Tickets are £5 or £3 for concessions and are available from Judith Weir on (01434) 230250 or on the door on the day itself. Then the following night, Thursday 18 December, we’ve got the Hexham Male Voice Choir giving a concert in St Michael’s Church. Admission is £6 which includes a buffet supper and a glass of wine. The concert starts at 7.30 p.m.

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