HOORAY!

Welland Stores is back and open for business. It was really missed when it closed for the Post Office refurbishment. It must be devastating when other village stores have to close through lack of business - so as the saying goes use it or lose it, and thank goodness we haven't lost ours!

The Welland Dog Show made a comeback on Saturday and what a great turnout they had. Over 60 entries and not a dog fight between them! All the dogs were so well behaved; although the afternoon was very hot and the storms held off. I am not implying anything but the main beneficiary was St James' Church! The Show Champion was Emma and the handler was Sophie Allbright. The Reserve was Bobo and the handler was Lottie Humphreys. The Best in Show was Shelley and the handler was Graeme McGibbon and the Reserve was Nella and the handler was Anna Bailey. Shelley and Graeme came all the way from Tyne and Wear. Our fame is spreading! The organisers would like to thank all of the sponsors and the Judge Alison Spiers. Also a big thank you all the volunteers who helped on the day and the amazing way the field was cleared at the end of the day. You wouldn't have know there had been a dog show there. A very big thank you goes to Mary Roberts for organising everything. If anyone else would like to join the merry band of enthusiastic dog lovers ring 01684 592303.

The popular Indoor Flea Markets start at St James' Church on September 5 from 9am until 3pm. These are held on the first Saturday of the month and if you would like a table please book early and ring me on 01684 310289

Friday is free coffee and chat in St James' Church. It runs from 10am until 12.30pm and everyone is welcome. I will be there and if anyone has anything they would like me to put in the Village Voice, just pop in and let me know or ring me on 01684 310289.

The turnout for Oscar Morris's funeral held in St James' Church last week, was overwhelming. The service was relayed to the many mourners outside as the Church was filled to capacity. Mrs Jackie Guy took the service and the tribute was given by his son Steve. Oscar was a popular man and Welland has lost a real character.

MARY PURSER 01684 310289