“WE ARE THE JUBILANT ONES . . .”
Coats tightly buttoned against the cold, hair standing on end in the biting wind, the children of Bainbridge gather on the village green to celebrate a special day. It’s mid-summer (wouldn’t you know it?) and the day is actually June 4, 1953, two days after the coronation of a young Queen Elizabeth II. Margaret Thompstone found this lovely photograph of the event – and the day looked every bit as bitterly cold and dull as it was for the Diamond Jubilee celebrations on the village green, almost exactly 59 years later, on Sunday, June 3. Nevertheless, as Bainbridge parish councillor, Ian Canavan, reports, it was a splendid day of celebration and thanksgiving, and the cold winds did nothing to dampen the spirits. . .
A super time was had by all, starting with an ecumenical service in the morning led by the Rev Janet Park, followed by coffee and scones. Although not all the congregation were senior citizens, I was reminded of the Spanish word for retired people – the Jubilados, the jubilant ones. Everyone seemed to have embraced the jolly Jubilee atmosphere and was in good voice.
Where “senior citizen” somehow corrals people by age, jubilados describes a way of being. It embodies possibilities. Uncorks effervescence. Fortifies the dancing and singing muscles. Summons verve to the proceedings. And that indeed was the menu for the rest of the day.
Coun Yvonne Peacock opened the event and Mrs Margaret Iveson of Holmbrae cut the splendid Bainbridge Diamond Jubilee cake. A champagne toast was made to the Queen, followed by singing of the national anthem and three cheers for the Queen.
Village elder ‘Granddad Peacock’ braved the chill to present the 73 specially commissioned Diamond Jubilee bone china mugs to all children of 11 and under who live in the village and all who attend the school. Coun Peacock commented that it was marvellous to have so many young children in our community.
A wonderful magician kept both children and grown-ups entertained for most of the afternoon and early evening, and a penalty shoot-out took place on the village green.
We were all kept on our feet by a band led by local impresario Colin Bailey, who brought with him musicians and singers of all ages. Colin has an inspiring way with the youngsters, and the crowd enjoyed the variety of music brought by young and old(er) entertainers. The bar staff were kept busy throughout the evening, and bacon sandwiches were available towards the end of the night. Thanks and appreciation go to the Bainbridge Millennium Group and all their helpers for putting on another successful ‘do.’
Appreciation also to the Travellers en-route to Appleby Horse Fair who respected the need to keep Bainbridge village green free for the celebrations.
A fine spread – picture by Ian Canavan
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