Local Face: Candy Lamond

Candy was born in Beaconsfield. Her earliest memories of Wendover are being driven through the beautiful High Street on her way to Aylesbury Sailing Club, Weston Turville Reservoir.

She completed the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, played the flute in numerous groups that toured Europe and even narrated “Tubby the Tuba” in French! Having worked at High Wycombe Music Centre as a flute teacher and bar maid at various local pubs in Beaconsfield, Candy moved to North London where she met and married her now ex-husband in 1989. She had a ten year career in Personnel and Training before starting a family. Due to changes in her husband’s career, the family lived in numerous other places including Somerset and Bristol, culminating in a move to RAF Halton, when sadly they parted in February 2003. Candy was left unintentionally homeless with three young children, the youngest, Talitha, then aged 2 and a half, severely disabled and her other two, then aged 8 and 6, struggling with the change of circumstances.

It was at this point that Wendover and St Marys’ Church became a true sanctuary for Candy. Candy was able to find the ideal home for her family who are regular attendees at St Mary’s. The house was converted for Tali’s needs making things a great deal easier. Iain Rennie and Florence Nightingale Charities were both able to support them too. When Tali broke her hip the church organised meals to be provided for the family. This was a real blessing and something that the congregation continues to do for those who are bereaved or suffering illness even now. Candy has worked since 2007 as the volunteer shop manager at @stmarys and has been a member of the music group, playing the flute and conducting, for many years.

In 2009, Candy met Neill, but that’s another story. Suffice to say, they have continued a long distance relationship for over three years and hope to marry next year.

Sadly, in February 2010 Talitha died after complications during surgery. Once again solace came from the Church. A memorial was held for Tali and many came to say farewell, together with a balloon release on top of Coombe Hill, Tali’s favourite spot. For those who are interested see Facebook Totally Tali page.

Candy started working as an Office Manager at a small irrigation firm in 2011 for three days a week. She also started a degree in Business Management at evening class that same year. She is currently trying to balance the two jobs, studying and planning a wedding at the same time but it is proving to be a tall order!

The Church shop, @stmarys has grown since it opened in 2005 and it provides a place for people to gather together either just to chat, book a church function and/or purchase fair trade and ethically sourced goods. This month they celebrate Fair-trade Fortnight and allow customers to enjoy a Big Brew of free tea/coffee on Thursday 28 February together with some free nibbles to taste.

Why not go along and join in. Bring your “I love Wendover” card and you will also get a 5% discount on anything you purchase that day.