St Hilary Community Website

My grandparents Evan & Florence lived in the village in Rose Cottage which once stood in the Bush car park and after that at number 1 The Crescent. My father Stanley and his brothers John and Albert grew up in St Hilary. My sister and I visited the village regularly and consider it to be our home. My father and mother both rest in the churchyard along with my grandparents.  My grandfather planted the willow which stands outside the village hall where the round tree once stood.
Neil Frederick

Hi
I used to live in St Hilary for much of my childhood life, with my parents Tony and Chris Ramsden, and my sister Stephanie living in the "New House".

I live in Estonia now(!), and saw the links that brought me to this website. Wonderful history and pictures, which definitely make me feel very emotional. 

Greetings from Northern Europe!
James Ramsden

We bought Dan y Bryn next to the Bush from Mel Barnett in 1972.  He had a bar built into the lounge but my mother had it taken out, much to my father's disappointment!  Yes he was a world weightlifter as you say.

Jane Pope used to live where Mary and Ralph Thomas live now.  Her mother used to work in the Flamingo Transport cafe, which is now Loch Fyne, and they used to drive a general store van around the village selling stuff.  Jane worked in the back and her mother drove!

I have got great memories of the village from the 1970s.  I was very lucky to grow up there!

All the best
Rob (Price)

I have just been in St Hilary with my wife.  Her family ran The Bush Inn in the 1960s and I loved the village. My father in law is buried here.  His name is Mel Barnet, and he took part in the weightlifting competition at the 1952 Olympic Games in Helsinki.  I hope to come back soon.
 
Best regards.

Pedro Mateus

Hello all St Hilarians!
 
I would just like to wish the villagers a very happy and successful Right Royal Occasion for Friday 29th!  I think it is a fabulous idea and great to bring back the village sprit. I have fond memories of St Hilary and of winning the village carnival in June 1977  (Silver Jubilee year) dressed as the Queen (I was only 10) and my aunt lent me her Corgi to finish off the outfit!
The Pope family lived in St Hilary for many generations and many now rest quietly in the churchyard.  No doubt many will be thanking you for giving the village its heart back.  St Hilary will always be "home" to me no matter where in world I am.
Have a fabulous day.  I hope to see some photos on the web site.
 
Best wishes
 
Jane
Jane Edwards (nee Pope), Papamoa Beach, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand