Iceland and the Volcanic Eruption

Highly regarded Mersea photographer, Colin Westgate has for many years recognised the dramatic geographic and meteorological characteristics of Iceland that make it an exceptional location for creative photography. Colin has a deep affinity with the Icelandic landscape and his commentary enhanced the visual impact of a wide range of stunning images displayed on a large screen.

The audience heard the stories behind the photos and what Colin was striving for in capturing the best composition possible. The experience was enhanced with well-chosen dramatic music accompanying some of the image sequences.

There was little technical commentary showing Colin’s awareness that he was not addressing a photographic society and Colin kindly donated one of his large prints as a raffle prize.

After the talk a super supper prepared by a group of the friends committee was served with a glass of wine during which time the raffle was drawn and Colin was available for those who had any questions following his talk.

The evening was attended by around ninety people and raised over £1000 for the funds.

Colin Westgate is a Fellow of the Royal Photographic Society and a Master of the Federation of International Photographic Art. Colin was only the second British Photographer to receive this recognition when he received the prestigious honour in 1990.

Colin has lived on Mersea Island for 8 years and runs his business Quest Photography from his cottage at the water’s edge. He has gained many awards for his images which have been exhibited throughout the world; his work is held in private collections worldwide.

More about Colin’s work and activities can be found at http://www.questphoto.co.uk/

Tues 20th
The Parish Church was filled to capacity. All 200 tickets were sold and the Friends are sorry that we were unable to meet the demand.

'Vocalise' sung a variety of Christmas and seasonal music; a mixed programme of traditional and modern arrangements. The audience were keen to join in with the items chosen for their particiption and held together the three part round, 'Noel, Noel' very well.

Particular praise to the 'first time' soloists, a daunting task before a full house. Well done!

After the interval local band, 'Moondance' played a well chosen selection of Christmas themed titles. They suprised us all emerging from the Tower in their illuminated antler headgear singing 'Rudolf' accompanied by acoustic guitar and sleigh bells. Fantastic!

Sat 17th
The concert was organised by the Mersea Chorus, The Phoenix Players and Mersea Island School Choir.

Beautifully sung music and dramatised readings were enjoyed at the well attended event in the MICA main hall. Mince pies and mulled wine were served in the interval.

The audience enjoyed joining with the choir for the participatory items in the programme.

The Friends of West Mersea Parish Church are most grateful for the support and sincerely thank all the contributors who organised, planned and played such a very fine evening.

Committee Members Jan Lawler and Richard Taylor were delighted to present a cheque for £4809.65 to Rector Sam Norton and Church Treasurer, Roland Gardener, covering the costs for the building restorative work to the South Aisle window. The window dates from the Tudor period and was in danger of collapse. The work was carried out by Bakers of Danbury, who are experienced experts in this field.

...was held in the Church Grounds in the afternnon of Sunday 11th December. There was a short commemoration service by Rector Sam with the names of those the cones were dedicated to read out. This was followed by a carol from Vocalise Choir and a solo beautifully sung by Soprano, Caroline Laver. The rain held off but it was a chilly afternoon in the strong breeze. Every one enjoyed slipping back into the warmth for mulled wine and mince pies. The Friends were pleased to receive a donation towards funds for each Golden Cone hung on the Fir Tree.

The cones will be packaged with a dedication certificate (a week after the event ) so they can be taken home, put on Christmas trees and stored for the future

Sergei Marriott and Stephanie Curran delighted the large audience with an enchanting evening of beautiful guitar playing.
The programme was carefully chosen to reflect the longevity of our beautiful church. Their selection of duets, specially arranged for guitars took us from the Renaissance, with pieces arranged and compiled by Frederick Noad, through the Baroque Period, with five of J. S. Bach's fifteen two part interventions and on to modern compositions from North and South America and Europe.
Sergei and Stephanie added to the interest by briefly talking about the pieces they were playing and explaining the composers' concepts translated through music.
During the interval the audience enjoyed superb complimentary refreshments.The delicious and attractive canapés were produced by a hardworking team during the day and enjoyed with a glass of wine.
Sergei and Stephanie met with the audience following a presentation of flowers and wine as a token of our appreciation.
The two musicians gave this concert freely, helping the fund raising activities for the Friends. We are extremely grateful for their generosity and wish them well as they develop their performance careers.

The Marriott - Curran Classical Guitar Duo
is available for weddings and functions and can be contacted at sergei.marriott@googlemail.com

The Ribbons of Joy Event was very pleasant and well supported with thirty-six fund raising donations.
Thanks to John and Jill Fieldgate for their dedications. The sun shone and the musicians played charming music.
The ribbons will stay on the tree for two weeks. All dedications included a certifcate.Some were uncollected and are now with Carol in the Church office.
Thanks to Chrissie Westgate for the photos.

There was a very good feel to the well attended Inaugral General Meeting; over 40 people present. The 'Setup Committee' was able to hand over the running of 'The Friends' to its newly elected committee. Continuity is ensured as Jeremy Dumas was appointed Chairman; the role he fulfilled during the set-up period. Kathy Dines-Bowman and Graham Sapsford also continue to serve through the transition. There are one or two vacancies and as the membership grows we expect that volunteers will come forward.

Jeremy outlined the principle objectives of "The Friends' as an organisation to care for the upkeep of our wonderful historic church and its associated buildings and grounds, while at the same time enabling the church to be used for a wide range of community events and activities. So in addition to its traditional and established religious services, the church will be available, not just as a historic site, but as a living useful and vibrant entity for all those who live in or visit Mersea.

Kathy, newly elected Vice Chairman and Fundraiser/ Events Organiser, presented plans for an exciting programme of events. Everyone agreed the importance of harmonising with the Church PCC and liaising with other groups and organisations such as MICA and the Legion to ensure a degree of coordination that will minimise any possible clash of dates in the future.

Open Church Afternoon

Everyone in our packed Church (250+) loved the fantastic and varied programme. The quality of our talented musicians and singers was amazing.
Our sincere thanks to all the magnificent performers who gave their time freely and lovingly for this special occasion.

Local Musicians Weaver and Banksy played two great sets with songs from Beatles, Police, Crowded House, Coldplay & more including some original compositions.

Thanks to the lads, James & Peter, and for the fantastic turn out of support. Fund Raising off to a great start. "When are they coming back?", was the big question.