With the warmer, drier weather upon us, our thoughts turn towards outdoor revelries. We, at the shop, are determined not to miss out, and will have our Volunteers’ Summer Party on June 1st. “Occasions like this always foster a sense of camaraderie.” Well, so I’m told. The shop held one such party just after I started volunteering, and I was much looking forward to seeing the faces behind the names on the rota. It was in the Covid days, and I thought I’d better take a test, even though I felt ok. It was positive! I couldn’t believe it! But there it was, loud (well, maybe not) and clear. Indisputably. Go to the party I could not. No camaraderie for me. I was gutted. This time will be different, I’m sure… Actually, by the time you read this, the party might be ancient history, and you’ll know whether Covid has struck again.
Our ice cream machine (I will call it that, rather than a boring freezer; it has such a nice ring to it) is proving to be very popular, particularly with the younger generation ie anyone under 92½. In the warm weather, we also provide complimentary water, for both humans and our canine friends. See how we do everything we can to look after you.
The Sheep Fair isn’t upon us just yet, but we’re starting to make plans. Specifically, we’re recruiting for our stall, or rather, let’s rephrase that to say that we are actively looking for volunteers who would like to offer their services. Just picture it… world-famous sausage rolls, (well, they will be even if they’re not yet) delicious pastries, and either iced or hot coffee, depending on the weather. Chatting to customers, soaking up the general ambience, but safe in your own space, away from the heaving crowds and bedlam. And you wouldn’t be on your own – there’s always a team on duty. It’s good fun! Have I sold it to you yet, or shall I go on?
So many new customers visiting the shop are effusive in their praise for the shop. It’s heart-warming to hear such positive feedback, as it is when businesses want to support us. Ferring Nursery has recently donated plants worth over £40, and we so appreciate their generosity.
I’ve mentioned the defibrillator before, the box outside the shop with its life-saving properties. Well, apparently it made an ‘unusual’ noise. (The mind boggles.) Anyway, all is ok now. Thank you to the volunteers who test it weekly to ensure that it is functioning correctly. By the way, it really does have life-saving properties – no joke – as several people living in the village can testify. It is very straightforward to use, and the instructions tell you exactly what to do. It is nothing to be scared of. In fact, it’s the most wonderful asset, so it’s well worth finding out how to use it, just in case the unthinkable happens. Good ol’ google!
Jean Burden