Sadly, our Community Festival was cancelled this year – apparently because of a misunderstanding about the actual nature of a virtual festival in this context and its implication with regard Covid security – nonetheless it was considered there was no option other than cancellation. Fortunately, thoughtful heads prevailed and all that has been cleared up so I am hopeful that we will be able to return next year with a bigger and more all-embracing festival.
As it worked out however community spirit really came through and there were a number of physical events which had already been planned and were able to go ahead independently – for example the annual Garage Sale Trail was a great success with a record number of registrations – and raised £220 for the Shefford Lights Committee. The new Shefford Scarecrow Festival also seemed to catch the mood with some impressive tableau – run co-incident with the similar Clifton scarecrow event, apparently Garage sales and scarecrows go together! Spoon Village was a favourite as well and continues to grow – like Shefford itself. Social distancing was encouraged everywhere and generally was observed by everyone. It was great to see so many couples and families walking round town, maps in hand enjoying the brilliant weather – such a contrast to the rain of last year!
Otherwise we are aware of a number of regular events that continued throughout the period of the cancelled Festival – including for example the Bowls club who now seem to be operating again and my own re-started Tai Chi classes at the Community Hall after a summer in the park at Digswell. Other regular classes seem to have gradually restarted at the Community Hall and the STMA, and elsewhere. Our community has proven resilient and pro-active in the face of the Corona virus – we are learning to live with it by making responsible adaptations. Let us look forward to next September 2021 and hope for a bigger and better range of events than ever.
I have personally been heartened by the number of people who have already asked about next year, so it is my intention to invite all stakeholders to an open meeting at some point – probably after Christmas, in the hope that we can initiate things like banners and street dressing – I bought the banners this year and would really like to see them in use. At that point when other seasonal community events have passed and perhaps the social distancing regulations have clarified or diminished, we could be in a better position to plan for September 2021. Dealing with Covid appears to have brought out the best in people and it is great to experience the underlying humanity of our society.
In which vein I would ask if there is anybody out there who would like to help out? So far the Festival has been managed by myself with help from a couple of volunteers and financed by myself – we could do with help if you have some time – please contact me at [email protected] or on 07860 218334
