With the political situation in Westminster nothing if not eventful (more on this in the weeks to come) it is good to see community life here in Brentwood and Ongar thriving vivaciously.
As we head once again into that season of marquees, home-made james, allotment vegetables and an abundance of bunting, I am looking forward to my weekends being spent outside in some of the most beautiful villages and communities we have in Brentwood and Ongar.
Blackmore has just had its weekend of festivities, with all the local clubs and organisations heavily involved. Particular congratulations to Blackmore Primary School pupils who abandoned their usual immaculate behaviour to become Blackmore School of Rock for a day. And also to Kay Parkinson and the team who put on such an extraordinary series of events for everyone - from dog shows to go-kart races.
Abridge Festival follows suit on the weekend of 8th/9th June and will be, I know from past experience, the epitome of well-organised community fun and celebration as will its flower festival in July. Ingatestone and Fryerning Horticultural Society will be showing gardeners the best flowers and produce the constituency can offer on 20th July. The end of July brings the Navestock Show and more good memories for me – I still treasure the picture of me with a large Nagini-style snake draped round my shoulders from the 2017 show in this village!
The great thing about all these fetes and fairs is how they bring communities together, allow us all to enjoy excellent value fun and food, and how they continue a tradition of country crafts and displays which have been enjoyed for centuries. If you’re taking part in one of them, or want to let me know when your local show is taking place, do get in touch at www.alexburghart.org.u