February 2013
3
Editorial I have started to publish extracts from a pamphlet called “Childhood Memories of Cople” written by John Ernest Storton. He was born in 1909 and wrote his account in 1989. People who have lived in the Village a long time will probably have already read his story but it will be news to the many of us incomers who have arrived in the last 20 years. His recollections bring home the changes that have taken place in society in the space of one long lifetime. There are about 850 people in Cople and it is remarkable how many diverse talents and activities there are. Eve Carroll has written a piece about bringing together the creative spirits in the village to share ideas and possibly form a co-operative. I found it interesting to review what goes on already. The Friends of Cople Church bring people together to give talks, perform or participate in social events. Jill Ebbs marshals the music fraternity. You will see from their article, that the Cople Argus Cricket Team is as keen as ever, as are the footballers judging by the turn out at weekend matches. The Village Trust provides us with the playing fields and a well used Village Hall. All Saints Church plays a central role in the community as does Cople Lower School. The Five Bells and the Sports and Social Club are ever popular and the Tuesday Club attracts 30 to 40 people to its monthly events. There is a weekly coffee mornings in the Village Hall and the Over 60’s Club get together twice a month. Carpet Bowls are offered every Wednesday evening in the Village Hall. We have a Mothers’ Union and a thriving Baby and Toddler Group which meets on Thursday mornings. Steve Halton has opened our eyes to the flora and fauna that surrounds us and Michael Roadnight encourages the horticultural community to soldier on. Ian Whiting has given us a top quality village website. I should also mention the numerous fund raising activities, fetes and bazaars that take place throughout the year. You will probably be able to extend the list yourselves without any trouble. The point of all this is that although this is a small village we do an incredible amount and we do it ourselves because we want to, without “direction” from above. Ged Peeke Cover picture. “Motherly Love” by Marilyn Southgate