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100 – Not Out!

100 – Not Out!

Weston church has a really big car park and it was decided – weather permitting – to hold an outdoor event for Laurie on the afternoon of Sunday 30th

Maureen Rees

31 August was to be Laurie Beetison's 100th birthday. Weston-super-Mare church members were anxious not to let this occasion pass without showing Laurie how much they loved and appreciated him. With all the Covid-19 restrictions it was going to be difficult, but, fortunately, Weston church has a really big car park and it was decided – weather permitting – to hold an outdoor event for Laurie on the afternoon of Sunday 30th.

Keeping in mind a limit of numbers, social distancing, no food preparation and so on, tables were scattered around the car park for people to sit in their 'bubbles' and everyone brought their own snacks and drinks. An amazing card for Laurie was hand-painted by Roger Gallaher, and messages from members and friends were sent by email to Roger, who printed them off and pasted them in the card.

In brilliant sunshine, at 3 o'clock prompt, flags were waved as Laurie's family drove him into the car park. He was so surprised and happy to see everyone. With the aid of a microphone Weston elder Len Sitton was the master of ceremonies, and Laurie's daughter and granddaughter gave a brilliant, interesting decade-by-decade summary of his 100 years.

Laurie himself gave a speech and thanked God for all the blessings he has had in his life, and for bringing him to his hundredth year. A faithful church member and deacon, until lockdown Laurie had attended church most Sabbaths, and since lockdown he has come on Zoom to join Weston and Croscombe church members in Sabbath services.

May God continue to bless Laurie with good health, happiness, and his cheerful, friendly spirit in the years ahead.