Guarlford History Group

Review of the Guarlford Scene Book Launch

Much to the relief of the Guarlford History Group, Sunday, 14th September, was fine and dry, after heavy and persistent rain for most of the first half of the month. The ground was still very wet, but thanks to "Classic Marquees" we were well prepared for any rain and ground covers ensured that feet were kept dry. It was just over three years since the launch of our first book, The Guarlford Story, and, once again, Dr. and Mrs Peter Mayner had kindly provided the very attractive setting of Cherry Orchard for the event. A large gathering of neighbours and their families came along, as well as friends and others with an interest in local history, including other published local historians. Following the ample and enjoyable picnic lunch, everyone was welcomed to the event and all whose photographs and memories had made The Guarlford Scene possible were warmly thanked for their contributions to a book the authors have dedicated to all Guarlfordians, past and present.

A book of this kind requires much work and preparation: the enhancing of photographs, the gathering of information, the writing, editing and the design of the book all involve countless hours of work; but a balanced team, with complementary skills and experience, has once more proved effective in putting together a history book which has already received many favourable comments from readers. It is this appreciation and support which makes our project worthwhile, just as it was the kind comments made about the first book, together with the outstanding sales, which gave us the encouragement needed to embark upon the second.

It is not only The Guarlford Story and The Guarlford Scene themselves which we believe are valued by our readers, but we also know that villagers have enjoyed and valued the various occasions when we have all come together as a community, as happened again at the recent launch. In this we have realised one of the objectives of the Heritage Lottery Fund to which we are indebted for financial support. Let us together continue to make opportunities for sustaining community pride and spirit in Guarlford. The History Group hopes to continue to play its part in doing this and will also maintain the parish website (www.guarlford.org.uk) as well as developing an archive for future Guarlford residents and historians.

Sales of The Guarlford Scene are very encouraging indeed. Compliments about the quality of the photographs that are reproduced have been accompanied by broader approval and comment. Perhaps one of the most original and striking in the latter category was the remark that it is a "Hovis book- warm and homely"! As we approach Christmas, the book would make a good choice of present for someone you know who does not yet have a copy. Books are available at Grange Farm Nursery, Guarlford, and at Beacon Books, Great Malvern, at £10 each.

Eric H. Jones

Chairman, Guarlford History Group October, 2008