Margaret Stevens (nee Hampshire/Arbuckle)It is with great sadness that I inform you of the passing of Margaret on Saturday 1st May 2021. (aged 80)For myself Margaret was the first person I approached to get involved with starting our Heritage group. We had common interests while growing up in the villages and our families (like many others in the villages) were close. Her knowledge of the area and people has been invaluable along with her experience of working in the offices at the Colliery. As most of you know Margaret grew up in Elvington Post Office which her mum Phyllis and aunt Edie ran, always with humour and pleasantness. They were also involved with the Amateur dramatics which is where my early memories are as we had some very entertaining times. Margaret’s father Len (part of the renowned Hampshire family. Her grandfather started the Post Office at Eythorne and also the garage which operated the buses for village outings etc.) They were also involved with other village activities especially the bowls club.Recent years we have enjoyed one another’s company staging Heritage events and working on the collection for future generations. Always with her unique humour and ability to laugh. We have shared many happy and sad times and I am sure many others of you have similar memories of her.Last year when she came ill she gave me her transcript of a presentation she prepared and delivered to her “Ladies that lunch” group and I also supported her with this presentation in St Mary’s Church Hall, where it was extremely well received. This will remain a treasured piece of local history for the group. A lady of many talents.Margaret was married to Brian, who supported her and accompanied her to our many events and meals out with the group. She had one daughter Julie who along with her daughter Hannah and grandchildren absolutely doted on.We will miss you Margaret, thanks for the memories.xxx
