A mysterious walk in the fog

Despite freezing fog and bone-chilling cold, the members of the Willenhall Healthy Walks Group set out for Willenhall Woods yesterday afternoon. This turned out to be a magical experience: the deep stillness of the misty woods caused us to tap into a vein of childhood reminiscence. For some of us, Narnia sprang to mind, and we half expected Mr Tumnus to come strolling along the path. Others imagined themselves creeping through the Wildwood of the Wind in the Willows, looking out for the entrance to Mr Badger's subterranean home. There was definitely a special atmosphere in the Woods that afternoon: how lucky we are to have this ancient, spiritual place right on our doorstep.

The Hagard Christmas Fete: Gateway to the festive season

The first day of December saw a jolly gathering at the Hagard Community Space for the annual Christmas Fete: a great way to start the festive season. There were craft stalls, tombola tables with some lovely gifts, delicious cakes and biscuits and a magical Santa's Grotto.



Setting up at the beginning of the event

The Wind Band performs

 Musical entertainment was provided by the Coventry Youth Wind Band, run by the Performing Arts Service. This talented group played a selection of carols and favourite Christmas tunes. Santa took the baton at one point, and made a good job of conducting the band.




Santa's got rhythm


The music students of Ernesford Grange School took their turn on the stage, and after performing some of their songs, they led the audience in a hearty rendition of 'The Fairytale of New York' and Slade's 'Merry Christmas'. This isn't the first time I have enjoyed community singing in Willenhall: maybe Gareth Malone should come along and organise us into a choir, as when we are in full voice we are very good indeed.