It’s so difficult to choose a few memories of Delph Hill from so many. My first was when I took my father for the first time after my mother’s death.

He was greeted so warmly by many of his old friends that he was ready to go each Sunday without fail. The church itself felt a firm foundation and a place for contemplation. Later of course, the more I became involved it was a place of action.

To be asked to ‘tread the boards’ with the Delphilians was an honour indeed, stressful but so enjoyable. As secretary of the Wives’ Group, I had my moments when arranging trips out and Christmas dinners. A fair amount of tact was called for and a good treasurer was vital. Arranging speakers was enjoyable but not without its problems.

Our jumble sales were very popular and queuing began at 4.30 for a six o’clock opening. The dealers were well known and gave us a fair price for anything of value. The local families with children went away with more than they paid for but everyone was satisfied.

Craft Fairs brought craftsmen in wood and ceramics to arrange their wares on well laundered and embroidered table cloths and the spinners and lace-makers were always an attraction.

Flower Festivals transformed the church interior to a scented and multi-coloured spectacle. Themes had been carefully thought out over many months of planning and the food and drink on offer was no mean feat but enjoyably received by all.

There are many memories I only have second hand knowledge of from a small band of ladies who still meet each month and who remember names and events I don’t recall. Revelations still crop up to remind us to link the old with the new and also to note the similarities with today.