Thursday 21 July 2011

Tanks a Lot !!



Bella Thomas, one of our photographers, and Miss November and I went up to Salisbury Plain the other day for a photoshoot. We were greeted by some very chivalrous and professional soldiers who directed us to a remote part of Salisbury Plain where we were assured of complete privacy. They even rigged up a make-shift changing area for Miss November (a long piece of black tarpaulin wound around two trees). Excellent. So far so good. However, part way through the shoot, we suddenly heard a distant noise and three, yes three - tanks came trundling down the hill from out of nowhere. Unsurprisingly, they slowed right down while passing us, and I had to use the light reflecting board as a shield for her!

Unperturbed, we carried on, but were then disturbed by a Military Policeman wanting to know what we were up to. He stayed a little too long for our liking. Then, a couple of minutes later, I saw a busload of soldiers which looked like they were making a bee-line for us. They managed to keep their distance to about 200 yards, but there were some interesting comments coming from the bus - so good to know that Anglo-Saxon words are still being used by those who defend us! Needless to say, Miss November recovered her dressing gown at this point!

We did get some lovely shots, though. Thanks Bella.

Tuesday 12 July 2011

Vintage Tea Party

Wow what an afternoon we had! More than 100 people came along to our Vintage Tea Party on Saturday afternoon at Karryne's farm in Livery Road. The rain held off (mostly), and our guests were treated to a quintessential English tea - homemade cakes and fancies, and dainty sandwiches, all served on vintage bone china tea sets. Everyone dressed up, and there were some amazing outfits and hats galore! We were very privileged to welcome as our special guests Miss Anna Aertssen who is a consultant breast surgeon, and also Miss Sonnya Dabill, a senior breast care nurse, from the Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust. We also welcomed Sandra Baxter who represented the Stars Appeal.

Pictured above are me, Miss Anna Aertssen, Miss Sonnya Dabill, and Karryne Hodgkinson, our hostess.

Anna and Sonnya judged the hat competition, which was won by Ingrid Schmekel. Second place went to Debbie Miles who sported a fabulous hat decorated with a real bra, and third place was Ella James.

Everyone had a really lovely time. Guests could have their portrait sketched by local artist Fiona Forbes, or browse the many tables of interest, including works of art by the Winterslow Art Group, contemporary jewellery and many others. Children's entertainment was provided by Sugar 'n' Spice. We raised an amazing £926.76! Thank you to everyone who helped make this possible.

Sara x