Westbourne

A rural village in West Sussex

Village News

"The Christmas season in the village got off to a great start with the Advant Carol Service on December 4th, closely followed by the Year R Nativity at Westbourne School on the 9th along with the PTA Christmas Fayre the same day. The lights were switched on on the tree in the Square on the 10th and on the 11th we had the Sunday School Nativity and Christingle Service.  The Sunday School held a Christmas Fayre this year with lots of different stalls, a raffle and delicious mulled wine being served - this made £350 for the Parish Hall - a really stout effort by everyone involved.
 
Carols round the Tree was the next event, and unlike last year, there was no snow!  In fact it was a lovely cold evening with loads of people turning out, especially little ones with their parents.  Mulled wine and mince pies were served up at the White Horse and Whistlers rustled up some absolutely delicious pokes of chips.  
 
Looking back to November, the Poppy appeal in Westbourne, Aldsworth and Woodmancote made £3100.79 for the British Legion in its 90th anniversary year.  Well done to all the collectors, especially to Alethia Collins who has been volunteering for the Poppy Appeal for 50 years.  She has collected more than £5000 over the years.
 
A Neighbourhood Watch update - keep your property secure this winter.  The value of property in sheds and garages is often much more than you imagine.  Within Chichester since this time last year there has been an increase of 26% of burglary Other Than Dwellings (OTDs) that have been reported.  So to help you not to be a victim, ensure that your outer buildings are secure.  Also, if you are going away for a few days tell someone you trust where and when you are going, and ask them if they could keep an eye on your home.  If you are going away for a longer period call the Police on the new National Non-Emergency number 101 and give them your dates and whether you have left a key with a trusted neighbour or friend.  Our local PCSO Colin Booker will then keep an eye on your property while on patrol in our village.
 
Please take note of the "20 is Plenty" campaign, to increase the safety of families in Westbourne walking on narrow pavements and crossing the roads and encourage traffic to slow down to 20 miles an hour around the village and school.  There is a petition on the website.
 
A great deal of work has been done on the Recreation Ground at Monks Hill including picnic tables and chairs which will enable more families to use this facility.
 
The date for Open Gardens 2012 has been arranged for Sunday 10th June.  A big thank you to those villagers who have agreed to open their gardens on that day.  The proceeds will be going to St Wilfrid's Hospice and other local charities and organisations.
 
Looking forward to 2012 there are plans afoot for a Big Jubilee Event in the village to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee - on Monday 4th June - so search out your Union Jacks and watch this space.
 
Christmas wishes and a very Happy New Year to all web readers."