Hathern celebrations kick off this week

A YEAR of commemoration and celebration kicks off in Hathern this week - as the village celebrates three remarkable historic milestones in 2018.

The parish council realised a few years ago that the oldest church tower bell dated from 1618, exactly 300 years after King Edward II visited Zouch bridge - and 300 years later, 1918 marked the end of the First World War.

The Hathern 2018 celebrations begin with a free launch party this Friday, June 8, from 8pm at the Anchor Inn, featuring live music.

On the same day, at 7pm, there will be a free presentation and talk by Andrew Young about Bells and Bell Ringing Through The Ages at St Peter and St Paul Church. The tower will be open following the talk.

Events include the Hathern Carnival and Village Fete on June 9 at Hathern Park, which also includes an It’s A Knockout event where five of the Loughborough Amateur Operatic Society team will compete, raising money for the Alzheimer’s Association. There is a barn dance on June 9, the Big Village Walk on June 10, a BBQ in the Park on June 10, The Making of Hathern presentation on June 11, and The Big Quiz on June 12.

Further events in June include Lunch In The Park, Guides and Brownies Go Outdoors, Praise in the Park, line dancing, bell celebrations, Meet The Neighbours and a gin tasters event, more live music at the Anchor Inn, plus Hathern Open Gardens, a vintage and craft market, Proms in the Park and a library open day.