OK listen up troops: June was pretty busy on the Hockliffe front and there are many people to mention in the monthly dispatches.

Firstly, we have a new recruit to the Cadet Corps: Jake Day was signed up to be a faithful soldier and servant at a special baptism ceremony. We offer the whole family our congratulations, and wish Sarah and Matthew well as they teach Jake the art of living as a member of Christ’s Army.

Secondly, troops on reconnaissance detail will know that the view from the churchyard is "the best in the diocese" (according to the Archdeacon). A bench in memory of Iris Jones and Mandy Joseph has now been installed in prime position, and all weary men (and women) are encouraged to go and sit on it - take a few moments of R&R; remember Iris and Mandy; and take in the breathtaking panoramic views over the village, Whipsnade, and Leighton Buzzard. Iris Jones was a very well known local resident who had acted as a foster parent to dozens of children over many years, including Mandy, who died with her. Thanks are due to Geri Edwards, Barbara Elkington and Joyce Young for raising the funds for this project.

On a glorious day at the end of the month, Liz Harper and Stuart Waller were married at a relaxed and happy ceremony. They have become regular members at St. Nicholas – worshipping with Sue and Derek, Stuart’s parents. We wish them all joy and blessings in their life together.

Finally, two members of the Regimental Band are retiring. They will be de-mobbed in early July, and from then on will appear on ceremonial occasions only. Pam Cross played cello with a previous incarnation of the band, in the days when Jim Meager and Daf Billinghurst were drum majors. That band died about 18 years ago, but like the phoenix from the ashes, a new band grew, and Pam has been a stalwart member of it ever since.

Her daughter, Catherine, used to sit on her father’s knee and gaze wistfully at the musicians. One day, Catherine was given a trumpet, and Paul wrote 3 notes for her to play. The rest, as they say, is history. Both deserve Long Service Awards and MET (Musician of Exceptional Talent) medals. Their retirement will leave the band sadly depleted, especially as Paul is going to be away for a few months.

Confucius say, though, that as one door slams, another will open; another phoenix will grow from these ashes. Other musicians are offering their services to fill the gaps left by Pam, Catherine and Paul’s absences. There are all sorts of lights under all sorts of bushels ...

Message ends. Over and out.

JD