JUBILEE -- As the last trumpet note faded away and the flag was finally lowered, our Jubilee celebrations ended. Villagers from all of our parishes joined in the final event at the village hall in Canon Pyon and heard Alexander Vaughan bring our long weekend to a close with the National Anthem as Brian Rawlings, the chairman of the Group Parish Council, lowered the flag. The previous evening had seen a huge crowd on Westhope Hill for our Jubilee Beacon; it was a real pleasure to see so many unknown faces. Miraculously the weather had cleared for the afternoon cricket match,between Canon Pyon-Westhope and Kings Pyon Ledgemoor, won by the former, after the obligatory rain-delayed start. It stayed clear and dry throughout, but where oh where was that balmy summer's evening? We had four memorable days, from the flag raising by the High Sherriff, Sir Piers Bengough, to the last event, our bonfire beacon. In between the organizing committee had tried and succeeded in staging at east one event to suit everyone - vintage vehicles, sports, bands, jazz, open gardens, youth play and historical display.With so much enthusiasm from so many it was a recipe that couldn't fail. It would be invidious to single out individuals in such a community effort, but as a group the Friends of Westhope did appear to be everywhere. Many thanks to all who helped from the putting up of Alex Aftalion's wonderful red white and blue tape, through all the subsequent days.