New pavilion looks back to The Great War in song

Ewhurst Green added to the commemorations of the centenary of the start of WW1 with an evening of song and laughter in the recently opened Herdman Pavilion. SUS-141028-125838001

Built upon fields bequeathed by Arthur Herdman, the new pavilion is a fine addition to the Parish of Ewhurst and its surround villages, providing additional much needed sporting facilities for the children.

Arthur Herdman, who relocated from Yorkshire to Ewhurst Place, a bequest from an uncle, was sadly lost to the community in the very early stages of World War I, but his legacy lived on in his generous donation of the playing field to the Parish and his home to Robert Baden-Powell, which became the initial home of the Boy Scout Brigade.

The evening was devised and directed by Pat Smith, ably assisted by her husband Peter, with outstanding contributions from the Ewhurst Shamateur Dramatic Society including, Ivan & Alex Leigh, John Moore-Bick, Clive Stott and Wally Close. Hugh Willing brought gravitas and knowledge to proceedings whilst recognising the fun to be had.

Glenys Griffiths, Bill and Jan Hooper and other members of the of the Herdman Association had put in sterling work to gather the troops and over 100 villagers and their friends were gathered there. Last minute problems were alleviated by Arran Keith standing in at the piano to accompany the singers without any run through or notice.

Raising money for The Herdman Association, the evening provided a wonderful commemoration of Arthur’s life, a thought provoking reminiscence of the sacrifice made by those connected to the village and the populous, but most importantly, a means to raise money to continue the generous works that the original benefactor had set out in his bequest.

The following day a small gathering attended the unveiling of a commemorative plaque in the pavilion. The parish was represented by Reverend Gordon Winchester who delivered a fitting message of gratitude and, after a short reading from Brigadier (rtd) Hugh Willing, the plaque was unveiled by John Stringer and Clara Foley (the oldest and youngest Ewhurst residents). After ‘The Last Post’ the ceremony was concluded by Herdman Association Chair, Nigel Davies

The Ewhurst Parish Council, a great supporter of the building of the facility, was represented at both events by councillor Maggie Whittaker.