Just before the turn of the Millennium, a few of us in the village got together to decide how Eyke might mark the occasion. We felt that some sort of permanent and unique reminder would be in order and the idea of an Eyke Millennium Book was born, with an aim of involving as many residents as possible, collecting photographs, stories and reminiscences of the village and its residents over the years up to the current time. We fund raised and were successful, too, in obtaining a “Suffolk Stars” Lottery Grant and for the next year its creation took over our lives! Following the rules laid down by the Lottery, we gave a copy of the book to every child and every household in the village, and for some years books were given to newcomers to Eyke. Quite a few of them found their way around the world, too! We were surprised how much interest was raised: we did an interview with Suffolk Radio, a bookshop in Woodbridge took copies to sell for £5 each and several people carrying out family research contacted us for information.
We were very encouraged by the success, and with money in the bank and fund raising when necessary, decided to keep our little group going, as there were very few social groups in the village at that time. Since then, we have organised hog roasts, pot luck suppers, lunches and afternoon teas, as well as creating the tradition of putting up a Christmas tree outside the church, where for a few years we had carols, mince pies and mulled wine, on one particular occasion under snow laden branches: all very atmospheric.
When Eyke Parish Council bought the phone box for a nominal £1 from BT, it was The Millennium Group who organised its repainting and paid for the defibrillator which is now there with its weekly checks being carried out by members of the Group. Over the years we have dipped in to the remaining funds to support events, provide Christmas lights for the tree at the church and to buy necessary supplies for the defibrillator, such as the pads which attach to the patient’s chest: they have a use by date and must be replaced then, even if unused. The Parish Council has now taken on responsibility for funding this.
Over the years, we have said goodbye to various group members and gladly welcomed others. Currently there are six of us.
In recent years, we have organised fewer events, as a lively Village Hall Committee was formed, which we have been very happy to support in its fund raising activities, but in the past year we have organised the Coronation Afternoon Tea, as part of the general celebrations and arranged a litter pick in February, as well as putting up the Christmas Tree as usual.
There are some Eyke Millennium Books left over still so if anyone would like a copy in return for a donation to Eyke Village Hall funds, please contact me
Jackie Pooley
jackiepooley@hotmail.com