How did you come to live in Ash Vale?
We moved here in 1985 though we hadn’t really intended to choose Ash Vale. A strong reason was the presence of the train station which provided good access to work for my husband.
What about your family?
We have been greatly blessed to have four children and seven lovely grandchildren. Our greatest joys are our family get-togethers twice a year.
Do you have time for hobbies?
Most of the things I really enjoy are knitting and sewing (having made both our girls’ wedding and bride’s maid dresses) but these have lessened over the past few years. As a full time mum, I spent most of any spare time weighing babies at the local clinic, visiting, working at the probation office and helping with local church projects (such as Women’s World Day of Prayer and youth leading).
Do you have a favourite spot in the village?
Yes, St. Mary’s Church. It is such a warm and welcoming group of people. Members of our house group commented about St. Mary’s once: “we can feel the love coming out of the brick work!”
Do you have a favourite time of year in Ash Vale?
Autumn is absolutely gorgeous because there are such a variety of trees and therefore leaf shape and colour. The walk along the Basingstoke Canal is particularly breath-taking with the autumnal colours.
Do you have any memories from St. Mary’s that stand out?
The inter-church events have always been good fun. There was one Whitsuntide when an event was held by Churches Together in Ash, Ash Vale and Tongham (CTAAT); it was called “On Fire” and included a parade with fancy dress. Unfortunately it was a complete wash out, so wet that even the helium-filled balloons refused to fly!
Are you involved in home or study groups at St. Mary’s?
Yes. We began a home group in 1986 to continue on from a Lent Group at that time. The group still meets 25 years later with some of the original members.
I also ran the Women’s Fellowship Group until this year. Even though we have officially stopped meeting, we still get together regularly for afternoon tea!
What benefits did the groups bring to you?
Home groups have helped us to grow nearer to God and to each other through study.
