Picnic in Duddas Wood

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Paul and Mark

A clear blue sky, a green meadow and sunshine on our shoulders - Almost Heaven West Virginia? Not quite but we came pretty close on Sunday 1st September when a group of us met up in Dudda's Wood, Stafford for a lunchtime picnic.

This was the first opportunity for most of us to revisit the site where we planted a copse in John's memory almost two years ago - and certainly a first opportunity to see the bench that bears our plaque celebrating John's life. (Sadly the foot and mouth crisis of last year had prevented planned visits).

Children and Dogs

It was truly a John day - a lazy, hazy summer day without a hint of a breeze to disturb us. The area the trees are planted in is tranquil and secluded, the vegetation green and lush, and the trees growing vigorously. There is a sense of peace and joy in being there.

There was much fun and laughter with three children and two dogs present between us all, and time for playing games before the serious business of eating lunch! Once settled down (with John singing gently in the background courtesy of a portable CD player) we were amazed to see a Honey Buzzard circling in the skies above us, with its mate just visible as a tiny dot far, far away. As someone said (I think it was Doris!) "thank you John". It was the nearest thing to an eagle we were likely to see that day. It was a magnificent sight and the timing was perfect.

Group

After lunch we were entertained with a selection of John songs performed mainly as duets by Paul Gilbert and Mark Robinson (plus a couple of solos from Mark). Thanks to both of you for bringing the spirit of John alive. As we have always emphasised, John's songs need to be sung in order for them to survive, and who better to sing them than people who love both the man and what he stood for as well as his music? There is no better feeling than singing with like-minded friends in a warm and convivial setting.

Gill, Paul and Mark

We were particularly pleased that Mark could join us as it was largely down to his efforts that we finally got the bench and the plaque installed and it was fitting that he was there for our first group viewing of it. (And we were also very pleased that Gill Regan could make it as she and her husband actually attached the plaque to the bench!)

All too soon it was time to pack up and say goodbye to the wood until the next time - but not before we had all assembled around our bench for a group photo! The bench has weathered nicely and sits comfortably in its surroundings. I can't help wondering what the general public think when they pause to read the inscription. For myself it feels very good to be part of this group, which worked extremely hard to raise the funds. This is the first permanent memorial to John in this country and I felt very proud of us all.

Music

I think the last word should go to Christine who said John would have approved of us today. A group of friends out in the countryside, accompanied by their kids and their dogs, eating together, laughing together, singing and sharing stories united by a common bond - yes he would have recognised himself there.

By Debbie Austin

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