Margaret Antill from St Laurence's church in Ansley writes about their recent 'Back in Time' event to mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day.
On 25th August, Ansley Parish Community were taken ‘back in time’ to the 1940’s. Over 400 people gathered in the churchyard to celebrate a bygone time of significance - particularly as the nation celebrated 80 years since victory was won both in Europe and in Japan.
Many folk dressed for the occasion with more than one Mr Mannering, a few land army girls and many beautiful vintage dresses being aired. Cakes served had a 40’s theme with a vintage bake off and 100’s of teas and coffees were consumed (hats off to the refreshment team and washer uppers!)
The entertainment was first rate with a 40’s choir (thank you to In Crowd), Reza and Ellie delighting the crowd with their renditions of Vera Lynn etc. Ian got the audience singing along and the Morris dancers were, as always, their brilliant selves with an extra dollop of 40’s pinnies, mops and headscarves. Each act was splendidly introduced by our own town crier (who will now have a regular booking!).
The event was not without culture and education with historic tours provided by Margaret, tower visits overseen by Anthony and an amazing exhibition of 1940’s memorabilia provided by a wide range of people. There was also opportunity to enjoy a wonderful display of 1940 themed flowers (a touch of the flower festival), buy a ‘Now and Then’ history book, enjoy the efforts of the pupils of the art school or simply sit in quiet reflection in the meditation area.
The fun element was definitely the games - coconut shy, roll for a ham to name a couple - all had the theme of 1940’s and it was highly appropriate to have the WI selling jam and produce as well as providing information on the war effort. This supported by a raffle, guess the weight of the cake or the number of sweets and a treasure trail around the churchyard delivered a truly authentic and memorable church fete!
The atmosphere was truly amazing and comments after confirmed this: “I don’t think I’ve ever seen such a community spirit in Ansley in my memory before as has grown over the last couple of years!” “Thank you - it was a lovely day, the community coming together, singing Land of Hope and Glory, the National Anthem at the end, the whole afternoon with the singing, games etc. a proper English village event, did have a few goose bumps”
The event was only made possible by so many acts of selfless service. It was great to see the church connecting with the local community and showing the relevance of the gospel in today’s modern world.