by, Peter Hayman
Plans are well advanced, for our ‘Fun Day’ next Sunday, 29th August. The weather looks to be improving this week, and (fingers crossed!) the long-range forecast for Sunday is for wall-to-wall sunshine with a gentle breeze. What can possibly go wrong?
We’re hoping that the roadworks etc, (which most of you will no doubt have noticed!) will not disrupt the occasion too much, and we’ll be able to avoid falling into the various holes around the place! Sadly, the skip which seems to have replaced the Heras fencing ‘sculpture’ will probably still be there, destroying yet another patch of grass!
Things will be happening, between 11 am and 3 pm, in two main areas – Caudwell Close, and around the central children’s play area on Blakes Way. We’re extremely grateful to both Coleford Town Council, and the Stonewater Housing Association for their enthusiastic support, and financial backing, for this community event.
The area between 8 and 10 Caudwell Close, will host the FREE children’s face painting (by Donna Albon), the home-baking stall, and the licensed bar – kindly organised for us by Alex Shipley of the ‘Gatehouse’ in Monmouth. Alex has asked if people would please bring CASH, as it may not be possible to provide card payment facilities. Small change will also help other stall-holders – if everyone turns up with £20 notes, we will have problems!!
Teas, coffees etc – and FREE hot-dogs – will also be available along Caudwell Close.
The children’s games and races, organised by Scott Albon, will take place from 11.30 at the rear of the central play area, where we will also be holding the ‘Caudwell Crufts’ fun dog show at 12.30. If there are enough children who want still more races, these will take place at 14.00.
The Tombola will be situated to the right of the play area, along with ‘Splat the Rat!’ – looked after by Owen Barnham.
It would be very much appreciated if people would refrain from parking in the central area visitors’ parking spaces on Sunday 29th – both for safety (emergency vehicle use), and to allow clear access to the children’s play area and surrounding areas.
One huge attraction – for all the family – will be the owls from ‘Little Owlets’ of Lydney, who have kindly agreed to bring along six of their amazing birds for the day!
Although we want this to be a great day for everyone to enjoy, we also need to remember that the Covid pandemic is not yet over. For everyone’s benefit, we’re asking people to take sensible precautions. We will be marking the areas near the stalls with appropriate ‘social distancing’ reminders, one-way systems etc, and ask people to respect these as far as is practical. Also, we ask that if you’re feeling a little ‘off-colour’ on the day, you should take a test if possible, and consider whether it’s wise to come!
Having said all this though, I’m sure that we’re all ready for a bit of light relief after all the stress and worry of the last 18 months.