At the end of the Nine Carols & Lessons Service, Revd. Pete used to thank those who had helped keep St Wilfrid’s on track during the year. He stopped this just before covid because “it was becoming boring…”. I didn’t agree; there is grace in recognising that we cannot achieve anything alone, and acknowledging those who help us. As my time as editor of the Parish Magazine comes to a close this is my opportunity to thank those who were helpful to me.

Constant throughout have been Yvonne Green and Richard Whitehouse; they both held me to account. With the rest of the stapling & delivery team they ensured that I met the due date for printing, and, when we encountered the threat of legal action a few years ago, sprang into action to save the day. I have never felt such love from those with whom I have worked. Yvonne, Richard and the rest of the team, I salute you!

Thank you to the clergy for delivering splendid Dear Friends articles every month. Admittedly I had to chivvy you along sometimes, but you never let me down. Revd. Roy has of course gone onto great things, writing for the Church Times and Parish Pump; we are so blessed to have his contributions each month. I also want to thank the much missed Revd. Roger Place. Roger was well known for his delightful sense of fun, which brought joy and laughter to those around him.

I must single out Tony Service who was always so friendly and kind in his support. Each month Tony delivered at least two pages of text covering all aspects of the Methodist circuit in Brayton, Burn and Thorpe Willoughby. He was always very supportive of what we were doing and I still think of him as I sit in my shed putting together the magazine each month. Tony contributed to the Parish magazine in all of its guises for 17 years until shortly before his untimely death in October 2021. Thank you, Tony.

Thanks to those who have kept us all up to date each month on events within their clubs and societies – Leita Hunter, Jan Tetley, Pat Griffiths, Pat Ainger, Marion Wilson, Lynn Allan, June Whitehouse, and Lorraine McGlone.

I would also like to thank all those who have put up with being the brunt of my silliness, including without limit Pat & Vyv Griffiths, Carol & Roger Sowden, Sheila Newsome, Mrs. Clarke, and Mrs Miggins. And of course Mrs Breeze and her delightful cakes!

That’s enough from me. If I have missed out anyone – and I’m sure that I have – then I’m sorry and you can claim a cup of tea from me after any Sunday Service: just remember to bring some money…

John Clarke