Crowborough Chamber Summer Event

Tester & Jones Funeral Services has been a member of Crowborough and District Chamber of Commerce since we were established more than 20 years ago and, yesterday evening, Glenys attended the organisation's Summer Meeting and Social Evening. It took place at The Bear Inn in Hartfield, where members were able to enjoy a drink in the sunny garden, before moving inside for the more formal part of the evening.

Chamber President, Matthew Allen from James Rose Chartered Accountants (pictured with Glenys and his wife Jemma) welcomed members and updated them on local business issues. Then, after a delicious spread of salads, quiche and outstanding sausage rolls, it was time for the guest speaker. Neil Reed, who owns Pooh Corner in Hartfield, gave attendees a fascinating insight into the world of Christopher Robin, his parents AA Milne and Daphne de Selincourt, and, of course, Winnie The Pooh.

He explained that 'a million little accidents' had led to the creation of the famous fictional bear 100 years ago, in a story that included a real life Canadian black bear cub called Winnipeg (Winnie for short), Punch Magazine, Ashdown Forest and HG Wells.

Neil also explained how he and his wife Samantha (who accompanied him to the Chamber event) had unexpectedly purchased Pooh Corner. They were running a marketing company that represented some big brands including Facebook, as well as an estate agent. One day, the estate agent asked them to 'spread the word' about a cafe in Hartfield that they simply couldn't sell. Neil and Samantha were intrigued and ended up buying it themselves.

Seven years later, the owners have really developed the museum side of the business - the Pooh'seum - and expanded the kitchens. Now, visitors come from all over the world immense themselves in the history of Winnie The Pooh and sample some of the cafe's viral Teddy Bear Toast and honey.