Harvest Queen Annie’s proudest day

Images courtesy of Karen Jakeman

Annie Jakeman’s proud face says it all…

After a two-year wait, due to covid, Harvest Queen Annie of St Thomas’ Leesfield finally held her “At Home” ceremony on Saturday (July 2).

On a sunny afternoon Annie and her retinue, Amelia Lloyd (5) and Layla Hamblett (4), led the procession of Queens down the aisle. 

Visiting Queens, Rose Queen Christina and Brownie Queen Jessica from St George’s Church, Mossley, and Rose Queen Layla from St Paul’s, Royton, their retinues and families were welcomed by Rev Ruth Farrar.

And Annie ensured it was a real family affair: her grandfather, Jim Walker, MC’d the event, her sister, Amy, was in charge of music and her nana served refreshments in the school hall. 

Following the service, the family and good friends manned stalls in Thomas’ Leesfield School.  

And, as well as taking the memorable pictures, Annie’s mother, Karen Jakeman, organised the sunflower themed “At Home” with the help of Vikki Wall and Jane Hamblett, the two retinue mums, using the theme Annie chose when she became Harvest Queen in September 2019. 

The Sunday School children made the decorations which adorned the church.

And finally, the galaxy of stalls plus raffle, laced with fun and games throughout the afternoon, raised more than £500 for church funds.

“I just want to thank everyone who helped out, donated and came along – you all made my day so special. Thank you,” Annie declared.

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