Farewell Colin Lawrence

Over 150 people from in and around the parish packed into Broadwindsor’s St. John the Baptist church yesterday afternoon to attend the funeral of Colin Lawrence who died on 23rd December 2022.

After the opening hymn ‘All things bright and beautiful‘, Colin’s granddaughter, Amy read a poem –

‘Goodbye Grandad’

Heaven has received another angel,
The night sky another star.
Your life has become a loving memory.
I know you will never be far.
I know you’re watching over me
As my life goes on.
I will treasure the memories I have of you.
I can’t believe you’re gone.
You were a loving, caring grandad
You were there for me a lot.
You will always hold a place in my heart,
A loving treasured spot.
You were really one in a million,
A cut above the rest.
All who knew you would agree.
You simply were the best.
So, Grandad, I will say goodbye.
I love and miss you with all my heart,
But as long as I have my loving memories,
We will never be too far apart.

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Rev. David Baldwin read the Eulogy prepared by his family:

Colin was born on the 2nd May 1937 and was the youngest son of Kathleen & Cyril, & lived at Seavington St Mary, near Ilminster. He had one brother, Keith. He attended schools in Ilminster. On leaving school he worked on a local farm and following this he did National Service in the Royal Air Force, his section being the Fire Brigade Crew. Some of this time was spent in Germany.

One winters night in 1956, Valerie & 3 of her friends were in Broadwindsor Square when they heard the sound of a motorbike approaching from Drimpton Road. On the bike was Colin riding pillion behind his brother!! After their first meeting, Colin continued to cycle from Seavington St Mary to Broadwindsor every weekend as due to work commitments that was the only spare time he had. This was the start of their romance & 64 years of marriage!

In 1958, on Boxing Day, they were married here in Broadwindsor Church whilst Colin was home on leave. There first marital home was in Burstock.

In 1961, Mandy was born. Unfortunately, Colin was away training in Finchley for the Fire Service so he missed this event.

Following his National Service he then worked for Newmans of Beaminster assisting with the digging of boreholes. After this he then drove for South Western Farmers in Crewkerne delivering animal feeds.

In 1966, Wayne was born and Colin was present this time!!

In the late 60s, Colin started driving for Ready Mixed Concrete until he retired, and still remained in contact with former workmates. The family recalls whenever they were on their travels in Dorset or Somerset, Colin would often comment, ‘I‘ve delivered concrete there‘, and would often remember what was being built at the time.

Sadly Colin lost his Brother, Keith, which left a huge hole in his life as they were so close, and used to visit one another on a weekly basis.

In 1971, the family moved to Broadwindsor, then in 2005 returned back to Burstock.

From 1972 – 1992 he served as a Special Constable working from Bridport Police Station. This was a job he enjoyed doing, giving back to the community.

In 1996, Amy arrived which made him the proudest Grandad ever. The family enjoyed many happy holidays together in Cornwall during Amy’s early years. He was so proud of her tennis achievements, which I’m sure you’re all aware of!! Amy can remember how he used to play tennis with her in the road at Burstock, and even in his 60s he could give her a run for her money. He also hit many balls in the neighbours gardens!

Colin loved the outdoors. He loved shooting, beating & gardening. He also played in a skittles team in the Cattistock Hunt League. Colin & Valerie also belonged to Broadwindsor Over 60s club which met monthly, and revelled in the outings. Through these interests he’s made many close friendships. Up until recently he was still gardening for Michelle & Mick at Broadwindsor, and Jackie & John at Clapton, despite having a large garden of his own. He liked helping other people out! He also loved animals. Over recent years has tamed many a stray cat, and they’ve all been given names.

Colin never lost his sense of humour whilst in hospital. On one occasion when Mandy & Amy visited him and the Nurse asked him who they were, he pointed at Amy and said, ‘That’s my Amy’, then pointed to Mandy and said, ‘She’s from Dorset’. It’s clear to say Mandy wasn’t expecting that!!

All of you that are here today will know that Colin was a positive, thoughtful, caring and loving family man, and would do anything to help anyone. However, his time keeping was not always the best, even in his final moments. Mandy and Amy having spent 32 hours by his bedside, the Nurses moved him into a side room, during this short distance with no one by his side he passed away much to the surprise of everyone. Particularly Amy, who uttered words that can not be repeated today!

Colin may be gone but will never be forgotten, and will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

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A lovely poignant poem followed:

Always there

When you remember me,

Please do not weep.

My body may not be there.

It has chosen to sleep.

 I’m not far away.

My soul lives on,

Looking down, watching over

You and everyone.

And when you feel sad

And life seems so blue,

Just remember

That my spirit has its arms around you.

And on those special days

Times that you wish I could see,

That cool breeze flowing past you…

Well, that will be me,

So don’t be sad.

Have no fear.

God has taken me under his wing,

But I’ll always be near.

I still watch you

Every minute, every day.

My love and soul are with you,

And that’s where they will stay.

Colin exited the church to the music ‘Always look on the bright side of life‘ performed by The Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines Commander in Chief Fleet. The Committal took place at Burstock Churchyard.
Afterwards, friends and family gathered together at the Comrades Hall to enjoy a lovely buffet and to share and celebrate their memories of Colin.

Any donations in Colin‘s name are requested to go to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.


❤ Colin Gerald Lawrence 02.05.1937 – 23.12.2022  ❤

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#WestDorset,#Dorset,#Village,#Community,#SadLoss,#Family,#Love,#Thoughts,#Prayers,#Funeral,#BeaminsterTeamChurches,#Wake,#Celebration,#Farewell,#MissYou,#LoveYou,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Harold Jenkins 16.01.1940 – 14.01.2023

Sadly, village resident, Harold Jenkins died peacefully in his sleep at home on Saturday morning.

Harold & his wife Margaret operated as First Responders for several years within our community. Harold was also a judge for many photographic competitions including The Melplash Show.

Harold leaves behind his wife, Margaret with whom he celebrated their Diamond (60 years) anniversary at the end of last year and his two children, Nick & Elizabeth.

There will be a private cremation and a remembrance service will be held at a later date. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.

❤ Harold Jenkins  16.01.1940 – 14.01.2023  ❤

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#WestDorset,#Dorset,#Village,#Community,#SadLoss,#Family,#Thoughts,#Prayers,#FirstResponders,#MissYou,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Funeral Arrangements For Colin Lawrence

The funeral service for Colin Lawrence, who passed away on 23rd December 2022, will take place at St. John the Baptist Church in Broadwindsor on Wednesday, 25th January at 2pm. His burial will then take place at St. Andrew’s church in Burstock.

Colin’s wake will be at the Comrades Hall, Broadwindsor and all his friends are invited to attend. Our love, thoughts and prayers go out to Val, Mandy, Wayne & granddaughter, Amy ❤


Family flowers only please. Any donations, please send to the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance HERE or by mail to c/o A J Wakely & Sons, 7 North Street, Beaminster, DT8 3DZ.

 


❤ Colin Lawrence 02.05.1937 – 23.12.2022  ❤

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#WestDorset,#Dorset,#Village,#Community,#SadLoss,#Family,#Love,#Thoughts,#Prayers,#Funeral,#BeaminsterTeamChurches,#Wake,#Celebration,#Farewell,#MissYou,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Colin Lawrence 02.05.1937 – 23.12.22

It is with a heavy heart to announce the passing of Burstock resident, Colin Lawrence who died yesterday afternoon at Yeovil Hospital.

Colin was well known within our parish community for many things but particularly, his willingness to help and how fit he was for his age.  Colin died after a relatively short illness with family by his side.  He leaves behind his beloved wife Val, who would have celebrated 64 years of marriage with him on Boxing Day, and his two children, Mandy & Wayne.

Details of his funeral will be published in the New Year.  Our love, thoughts and prayers go out to them all at this particularly poignant time.

❤ Colin Lawrence 02.05.1937 – 23.12.2022  ❤

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#WestDorset,#Dorset,#Village,#Community,#SadLoss, #Family,#Christmastime,#Love,#Thoughts,#Prayers,#MissYou,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Platinum Jubilee 2022 #4 The Weekend

The final slideshows of Broadwindsor Fun Group’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations…

To view the others, please click on the links below –

Saturday, 4th June:

(Clicking on a photo will open it in a new window and be a larger image)

Sunday, 5th June:

(Clicking on a photo will open it in a new window and be a larger image)

These and more photos of our Platinum Jubilee Celebrations can be viewed at Annie Collins Photography‘s Facebook page HERE.  They are terrific. Thank you so much Annie!

Thank you to everyone who took part!

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Dorset,#Village,#Community,#BFG,#Family,#Fun,#PlatinumJubilee,#LetsCreateJubileeFund,#Smile,#Children,#Parade,#DressUp,#Queen,#Party,#Cake,#Photography,#HM70,#King,#AnnieCollinsPhotography,#Recycle,#BWFunDay,#Poetry,#PeterRoe,#BroadwindsorSchool,#BFG22,#ThankYou,#Celebrate,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Platinum Jubilee 2022 #3 Childrens’ Parade & Poetry

Apologies for the delay, but here are some photographs from the Childrens’ Jubilee Parade and their poems which they wrote for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee earlier this month, after workshops with resident poet, Peter Roe. All were on display in the Comrades Hall over the weekend.

The Childrens’ Parade:

The winners, all from Broadwindsor school received a £10 voucher for Toymaster,

  • Emma – Thomas Hardy (KS1)
  • Clemmie – William Barnes (KS2)
    with Clemmie’s sister, Pearl – Mary Anning (KS1)

(Clicking on a photo will open it in a new window and be a larger image)

Yes, there are even more photos to come on the site but if you’d like to view more photos now of our Platinum Jubilee Celebrations – please visit Annie Collins Photography‘s Facebook page HERE.
They are wonderful. Thank you Annie!

 

The Childrens’ Poetry: … If I were King/Queen for a day… or perhaps a Guinea Pig?

The winners, also from Broadwindsor school were:

  • Sophie, ‘If I was Queen for a day…’ 
  • & the young boy who flagged G for Gorilla.

Each received a £10 book token for the The Bridport Bookshop on South Street, Bridport.
(Clicking on a photo will open it in a new window and be a larger image)

 

A HUGE thank you to everyone who took part!

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Dorset,#Village,#Community,#BFG,#Family,#Fun,#PlatinumJubilee,#LetsCreateJubileeFund,#Smile,#Children,#Parade,#DressUp,#Queen,#Photography,#HM70,#King,#AnnieCollinsPhotography,#Recycle,#BWFunDay,#Poetry,#PeterRoe,#BroadwindsorSchool,#BFG22,#ThankYou,#Celebrate,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Platinum Jubilee 2022 #2 Beacon Lighting Ceremony

The Beacon lighting ceremony on Thursday, 2nd June began with the music of a Highland piper (recorded) then this performance from Tilly Jardine on her bugle:


This was followed by the debut performance of the Broadwindsor Platinum Jubilee Choir
(no recording as yet).

 

Then it was time for Pip Cadwell to light the beacon:

Do listen for Pip’s final instruction to Barry at the end of the video 🙂

 

Well done Pip – Thank you!

More photos to come on the site but if you want to view more photos now of our Platinum Jubilee Celebrations – please visit Annie Collins Photography‘s Facebook page HERE.
They are fantastic. Thank you Annie!

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Dorset,#Village,#Community,#BFG,#Family,#Fun,#PlatinumJubilee,#LetsCreateJubileeFund,#Smile,#Beacon,#PipCadwell,#Bugler,#Choir,#Photography,#HM70,#Bunting,#AnnieCollinsPhotography,#Recycle,#BWFunDay,#BFG22,#Celebrate,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Platinum Jubilee 2022 #1 St. John the Baptist Church

Broadwindsor Fun Group would like to thank Annie Collins for all her work and fantastic photography over the long weekend of celebrations in honour of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on her magnificent achievement of 70 years reign 🙂

Remember to tag your photographs with #Broadwindsor & #BWFunDay or send them into photos@broadwindsor.org

There are sooooo many photographs and recordings that have been taken over the last few days, the Editor is currently compiling them in categories and we begin with #1 St. John the Baptist church. Annie was given special permission to go to the top of the church and take some marvellous aerial photographs of our village.  These particular photographs are copyrighted to Annie and can be downloaded FREE.

Please address enqueries directly to Annie at: annie221159@hotmail.com.

Please also enjoy her photographs of the beautiful Floral Displays which were inside the church. These photographs are also FREE to download or share.

 

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Dorset,#Village,#Community,#BFG,#Family,#Fun,#PlatinumJubilee,#LetsCreateJubileeFund,#Smile,#Photography,#HM70,#Bunting,#AnnieCollins,#Recycle,#BWFunDay,#BFG22,#Celebrate,#BeaminsterTeamChurches,#ThankYou,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

#BWFunDay – Share Your Jubilee Photographs On Instagram

Broadwindsor Fun Group are asking you to tag your photographs of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations with #BWFunDay to share on Broadwindsor’s Instagram site – HERE 🙂

Village resident Annie Collins takes spectacular photographs of almost anything that moves and that includes you! Annie will be Broadwindsor Fun Group‘s official photographer over the full Jubilee event so do not be surprised if you see her all over the place including up the church!

Particularly on Saturday, 4th when many families & people will be celebrating, please let Annie know if you do not wish you or your child to be included and this will be accommodated to the best of her ability.

Some of Annie’s work will be on display inside the Comrades Hall and Annie’s photographs will available to purchase:

  • £5 each
  • £12.50 for a set of 3
  • £15.00 for a set of 5.

Please address all enquiries re: photograph orders or queries directly to Annie at: annie221159@hotmail.com.
If you have any other queries re: the Jubilee celebrations, please email: bwfunday20@gmail.com.

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Dorset,#Village,#Community,#BFG,#Family,#Fun,#PlatinumJubilee,#LetsCreateJubileeFund,#Smile,#Photography,#HM70,#Bunting,#AnnieCollins,#Recycle,#BWFunDay,#BFG22,#Celebrate,#LeaveNoOneAtHome,#ThankYou,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

The Bunting Is Up!

Our village is preparing for next weekend’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations and began today by putting up the bunting around Bernards’ Place, inside and outside of the Comrades Hall, up the High Street, on the railings at Trusthams and down Back Lane as well as around the Square into West Street. Almost 2,000 triangles… 950 metres of it….

Chairman of Broadwindsor Fun Group, Adrian Gray said “Our thanks to all those that turned out to put nearly a km of bunting up. It took nearly four hours but has made the village look great.

Not one bit of plastic in sight – all the bunting has been made using recycled bed sheets, duvet covers, curtains and pillowcases. Stitched together by helpers ranging from an 80 year old tailor to Broadwindsor’s 1st Rainbows 🙂

A huge thank you to everyone who was involved – be proud of this accomplished monumental and sustainable task!

After the Jubilee celebrations, the bunting will be available to other village groups wishing to use it for their celebrations in the future.

 

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Dorset,#Village,#Community,#BFG,#Family,#Fun,#PlatinumJubilee,#LetsCreateJubileeFund,#ComradesHall,#PlanAhead,#HM70,#Bunting,#Broadwindsor1stRainbows,#Recycle,#BWFunDay,#BFG22,#Celebrate,#LeaveNoOneAtHome,#ThankYou,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe