Villagers flocked to the unveiling of their new sign – and celebrated with a party to mark the coronation of King Charles III.
The long-awaited sign for High Wych was put in place on Sunday May 7 after villagers Rachel Mabey, Sam Clark and local historian Theo van de Bilt had set the wheels in motion in 2018.
After being introduced to the gathered throng of around 250 excited villagers by Barry Bowen of main sponsors Harlow Theatre Group, Theo performed the unveiling to rapturous applause.
“I explained the elements of the sign which try to sum up what we have in common – our community,” said Theo.
“The pulling of the cord was then followed by four children, Cai, Sebastian, George and Finn laying offerings and the Rev Allison Jackson [of St James The Great Church] performing a blessing,” he added. “Derek Filler then led us in singing the National Anthem.”
mpu1
The crowd then decamped to High Wych Memorial Hall for a coronation party, led by master of ceremonies Derek.
Guests enjoyed tea and sandwiches and sketches were performed by Janet Bellingham, Val Forster, Liz Faulkner and Chris Poole.
Meanwhile over the road at the Rising Sun pub a celebratory charity BBQ was held supporting Prostate Cancer UK.