The church flagpole has the flag raised in honour of the Second World War generation from across the UK and Commonwealth as we mark the 80th anniversaries of Victory in Europe Day on 8th May and Victory over Japan Day on 15th August.

A message from Elisabeth Powls, Tower Captain ‘On 8th May 1945 the church bells rang out across Britain as the nation took to the streets in celebration of VE day. 80 years later, bell ringers have been asked to re-create that moment by ringing at 6.30pm to pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for us.

The Timberscombe bellringers will join in this celebration by ringing at 6.30pm in line with many churches across Britain. A message from the Pageant Master, Bruno Peck ‘Together we honour the past and celebrate a future built on unity, hope, love and peace.”

In the church and Post Office there are booklets available for sale which detail the stories of those local to Timberscombe who served and are remembered with gratitude, as well as a book by local historian and author Alan Hines who has carefully researched the stories of the many evacuees who came to this area. Much of this information is available online through the Timberscombe History Group and the current Featured Item is all about the village Home Guard and a fascinating read https://stpetrockshistorygroup.omeka.net/

You are very welcome to join with others on Thursday 8th between 10am and 12 noon in St Petrock’s for tea, cakes and perhaps reminiscences?…

Marion Jeffrey