1. family and parenting
2. children

The Three Parishes
April 2015
Your Local Newsletter for Ardley-with-Fewcott, Fritwell, Souldern
and surrounding area
THE SMALLPRINT
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
Website:
www.cherwellvalleybenefice.org.uk/news
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ThreeParishesNews
Subscriptions: To arrange a new subscription phone 345830.
Letters, comments, articles, drawings, pictures, contributions, opinions etc.
are very welcome. Whilst the editors do not necessarily agree with the
content of contributions and reserve the right to edit for space, all are
considered equally. There is a 400 word limit on all contributions please. If
your item is not time-sensitive, it will not necessarily be included in the first
issue after you submit it, but you will be informed when it will appear. All
contributions by email will be acknowledged.
For contributions and subscriptions, e-mail is the best way to contact us:
[email protected]. You can leave typed articles at any of the
collection points below. Please include your name & contact details and
deliver your article, or your £3 subscription money to:
•David Blunt, Gibbs Field House, Foxhills Lane, Souldern,
•Madeleine Gilpin, Millwood , Water Lane, Ardley
•G B Wrighton and Son, East Street, Fritwell
For subscription or delivery problems, please contact the editor: Vicky
Hibberd. [email protected] Tel: 345830 / Mob: 07788 560174
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DEADLINES FOR CONTRIBUTIONS 2015
Issue
Deadline for copy
May (Spring issue)
17th April
June
15th May
July 2015
12th June
Aug/Sept (double issue)
17th July
October (Halloween)
18th September
November
16th October
Dec/Jan 2016 (XMAS)
13th November
MADELEINE’S COUNTRY FILE
Well, spring has definitely arrived, despite some pretty cold starts
to some days, and it is so uplifting to feel a bit of sunshine and
warmth, isn't it?
How wonderful it is to hear the birds singing their hearts out
each morning with the start of the Dawn Chorus as they try to
entice mates with their beautiful songs. I could hardly believe it
when I heard my first Yellowhammer and his 'little bit of bread and
no cheese' on 4th March and the beautiful fluting song of the
blackbird in the early mornings now.
Clearly the birds are beginning to get that twitterpatted feeling!
How early is that and it is heart warming to see the daffs, crocuses
and celandines in all their beauty in our gardens and hedgerows.
3 Apr
9 Apr
10 Apr
11 Apr
13 Apr
15 Apr
16 Apr
17 Apr
18 Apr
24 Apr
25 Apr
28 Apr
April
Good Friday service Souldern Chapel [p8]
Souldern Horticultural Soc AGM [p12]
Fritwell Cushion Club Movie [p11]
AwF churchyard tidy up [p9]
Trip to The Potteries [p9]
Viridor Liaison meeting [p9]
Souldern village hall AGM [p12]
AwF Garden Club 3-day trip Peak District [p10]
Souldern Community Market [p15]
KHH Bring a £ to Work [p4]
Cheese & Wine, St Olave s, 7pm [p2]
Annun to the BVM Souldern APCM [p7]
7 May
9 May
12 May
14 May
17 May
18 May
19 May
22 May
23 May
13 June
14 Jun
20 Jun
26 Jun
22 Aug
Coming Up
Polling Day [p4.11.14]
Oxfordshire Stars concert [p3]
AFECT AGM [p9]
Ascension Day service 7.30pm Fritwell Chapel
Souldern Horticultural Soc BBQ [p12]
Fritwell Parish Council AGM and meeting [p11]
Ardley Parish Council meeting [p9]
Fritwell Cushion Club Movie [p11]
Entertainment Fritwell Chapel [p8]
Fritwell Chapel Coffee morning with stalls
Souldern Horticultural Soc visit to Steane Park [p12]
Vision for Souldern [p12]
TBC AwF Gardening Club AGM [p10]
Souldern Horticultural Show [p12]
REGULAR EVENTS
Tuesdays 10.30am Ardley over-50s Community Café [p9]
Wednesdays 9.15am Pilates Fritwell Village Hall
Wednesdays 10.15am Playbus Fritwell [p3]
Wednesdays 4pm Kids Zumba Fritwell
Wednesdays 5pm Tiny people s ballet Fritwell
Last Wednesday of the month 7pm BINGO Fritwell VH
Thursdays 8pm Thirsty Thursdays + quiz Fritwell VH
Thursday every 2nd week 10am Pumpkins Ardley VH [p3]
Thursday every 2nd week Mobile Library Fritwell May s Cl
Thursday every 2nd week Mobile Library Souldern Pond
Fridays monthly Fritwell Cushion Club Movie Village Hall [p11]
3rd Sat. each month Souldern Community Market [p15]
Sundays 4pm Tae Kwon Do Fritwell (07956 834773)
COMMUNITY
St Olave’s warmly invites you to our
FRITWELL SCHOOL
Church Guide Launch
Awe and Wonder
One of the challenges in a school is to find different
ways of firing up the children s imagination, especially
in a world of tests, league tables and technology. How
lucky we are in having a wonderful outdoor area where
the children can make dens, build bug hotels and hunt
bears, dinosaurs and Gruffaloes. When I was teaching in
Foundation Stage at this school we used to love going to
the outdoor classroom for story time, so we were really
disappointed when our wooden benches eroded due to
the weather a couple of years ago. Fortunately, Mr
Blake, one of our parents, has come to our rescue and,
with the help of Friends of Fritwell School, has provided
us with new furniture which looks truly amazing.
25th April, 7.00-8.00pm
St Olave’s Church, North Street, Fritwell
The evening will include:
•
A short talk on some of the more interesting (and less well known)
periods of the history of St Olave s, which research for the Guide has
uncovered
•
A short talk by guest speaker Dr Jonathan Healey, Lecturer in English
Local and Social History at the University of Oxford
•
A short talk by guest speaker Dr Nick Lambert, lecturer in the History
of Art at Birkbeck College, University of London, and editor of the
book Llandaff Cathedral
•
An opportunity to purchase a copy of the new Church Guide
•
Cheese, wine and soft drinks (donations)
Our teachers have a real talent in finding ways to make
the children s learning more exciting. Year 6 and Year 1
have been to Pizza Express in Bicester to learn how to
make pizzas to support their topics on the Romans and
Food. Year 1 have also impressed their parents with
their culinary skills by opening a café in their classroom
to which they were all invited.
ALL WELCOME
For any enquiries, please email James at: [email protected]
The Year 4 parents have also been into school to have a
look at the work the children have produced on the
topic of Water. The children visited Stoke Bruerne Canal
Museum and had a trip on the canal in order to aid their
learning.
NEW FRITWELL CHURCH GUIDE LAUNCH
Cheese and Wine (See poster above) Free entry
If you haven! t had an opportunity to " inspect! the new facilities at St Olave! s Church, this is the perfect opportunity to do
so! Now that the Servery and w.c. are up and running, we
are able to hold community events in the church which offers
a large public space with excellent acoustics. This has been
made possible primarily by grant funding from Viridor Credits, a subsidiary of Viridor, which supports community projects.
The recent solar eclipse gave us the opportunity to allow the children to experience this incredible phenomenon. Armed with their equipment (boxes, tubes, colanders), the children were hoping the cloud would clear so
that we might see at least some of the eclipse. And we
weren t disappointed! The truly magical moment was
when the sun reflected through the clouds producing a
rainbow like effect on top of them. It was like a fantasy
land!
The two speakers at this event are eminent in their field of
history and their brief talks will be both interesting and informative. They have kindly offered to speak, free of charge. An
opportunity not to be missed! This event is a result of the
research James Williams has undertaken to update the history of St Olave! s and Fritwell for the church guide.
I always feel so blessed to be in a job where I can help
create memories for children that will last a lifetime.
Donations welcome.
Debbie McLeod, Headteacher.
WANTED
An Honorary Organiser to administer and manage the
distribution of Poppy Day collection boxes for the villages of Ardley with Fewcott, Fritwell and Souldern.
This a most worthy cause, which regularly raises in
excess of £2000 annually for the Royal British Legion.
For information, please contact:
Lawrence Williams 07712570807
or [email protected]
2
COMMUNITY
Community Education
at the Marlborough School, Woodstock
To book a place please telephone 01993 813592 or email [email protected].
Our summer term will begin on Tuesday 14 April:
On Saturday 16 May we are offering the following
workshops:
Acoustic Guitar More Next Steps (Wed 7.15)
Anyone Can Sing Level 1 (Tues 6pm)
Anyone Can Sing Level 2 (Tues 7pm)
French More Next Steps (Wed 7pm)
Italian More Next Steps (Tues 7.30pm)
Pilates (Mon 11am, Thurs 11.15am)
So Now You Can Sing (Tues 8.15pm)
Spanish Intermediate (Wed 7.30pm)
Tai Chi (Tues 6.15pm or 7.30pm)
Watercolour Painting (Thurs 2pm)
Yoga (Mon 9.40am, Mon 7pm, Tues 4.30pm, Wed 7pm,
Thurs 9.40am)
Zumba Gold (Thurs 5pm)
Roman Blind or Curtain Making an Introduction with
your sewing machine 9.30am-4.30pm £38.50 + materials
Aromatherapy: An Introduction 1.15-4pm £18
Italian for your Holidays 3 10am-1pm £18
French for your Holidays 10am-1pm £18
Drawing with Confidence 10am-4pm £33+materials
Photoshop for Beginners 10am-3pm £27.50
Yoga to cleanse and detox 10am-1pm £18
Sugarcraft – covering a sponge cake 11-12.30pm £15
or £30 if attend both sessions
Sugarcraft decorations for Summer 1-4pm
£21+materials
PUMPKINS
Ardley w Fewcott Toddler Group
Ardley Village Hall
10am - 12noon
Pumpkins 26th March Easter Crafts
Pumpkins: April 16th, 30th, May 14th,
Ride-ons April 23rd, May 7th, 21st
Everyone welcome—come along for a drink & a
friendly chat. Meet other mums, dads, nannies, granddads and carers. Pumpkins do crafts and other activities, Ride-ons is a general energy-filled session with
the ride-on toys only.
Only £2.00 per family.
Please come along and support your local
toddler club.
Donations of good quality toys would be
gratefully appreciated.
For more information contact:
Louise 01869 346708 Bernie 01869 345073
Oxfordshire
Stars
Oxfordshire STARS is led by Nicky Clargo who is supported by her
friends, family, colleagues and supporters to raise funds for good
causes. Nicky has over 20 years fundraising experience and enjoys the
social aspect of organising events. Oxfordshire STARS is simply a group
of people who help raise money for charity with the charities
permission. In 2015/16 Nicky has chosen to support Marie Curie Cancer
Care following the loss of many of her family members and several
friends in 2014 to this terrible illness.
Spring Concert - Saturday, 9th May 2015, 7.00 p.m. - 10.00 p.m. (doors
open at 6.30 p.m.), The Parish Church Of St Michael At The North Gate,
Cornmarket Street, Oxford, OX1 3EY Tickets / Entry £5 (tickets will be
available on the door on the night.) Our Charity Spring Concert and Singin will feature local singers and musicians. It will be an evening of upbeat
" feel good! music with some well known songs.
3
WANTED! Good Quality NEW or second hand Clothes. If you are
having a clear out please pass on any good quality clothes, shoes, bags,
jewellery etc for our sale later in the year. This event will be in aid of
Marie Curie Cancer Care. Please Contact Nicky on 07754 271831 or
[email protected]
WANTED! Raffle and Tombola Prizes. If you have anything suitable for
a raffle or tombola please do let me know as we are actively looking for
items to raise funds for Marie Curie Cancer Care throughout the year.
Please contact Nicky on 07754 271831 or [email protected]
WANTED! Good quality Teddy Bears! If you have any good quality
teddy bears looking for a new home please do contact us as we will use
them for our children! s Teddy Tombola. Please contact Nicky on 07754
271831 or [email protected]
COMMUNITY
Thames Valley Police
local report from PC Caroline Brown
Katharine House Hospice
APRIL
Crimes
Vehicles stolen overnight from a number of villages: a Mitsubishi
Shogun from Lower Heyford, a Motorhome from Chesterton and a Ford
Transit from Duns Tew. Heating oil was stolen from Bucknell and Stoke
Lyne. Bicycles which were left unlocked outside houses were stolen
from Ambrosden and Caversfield. There were 2 reported burglaries in
homes in Launton and Ambrosden and sheds in Ardley and Stratton
Audley. Tools were stolen from a van in Launton and a windscreen
wiper was broken off a van in Wendlebury and finally a set of trade
plates were stolen from a workshop in Steeple Aston.
9th Annual Midnight Walk will be taking place on Saturday, 4 July
2015; Walk for fun, for fitness or in memory of family or friends. This
year we have a Hawaiian theme so bring out your hula skirts and flower
garlands and join us for the luau!
Application forms are now available, to get yours call the fundraising
office on 01295 812161 or email us, for more information and to register
visit the website. Closing date for applications is 22 June.
Open to adults and children aged 12 and over. Each child under 17
must be accompanied by an adult. Entry fee is £15 and we ask that you
raise £25 minimum in sponsorship.
Last year nearly 500 people took part and raised around £70,000 to
help fund the hospice services.
Don! t fancy walking? Why not be part of our much valued team of 150
volunteers?
Over £600,000 raised in 8 years!
Court results
Helen O! Brien from Oakview Park Arncott pleaded guilty to driving
whilst disqualified and was fined £115 and given a further six month
disqualification. Andrew Richardson from Old School Close Caversfield
was found guilty of possession of class C drugs and also attempted
handling stolen goods and was given a conditional discharge. James
Alderton of Newton Morrell pleaded guilty to two shopliftings and was
fined £265
Courier Fraud scam
A new type of scam is spreading, which tricks people into handing over
their bank cards and pin numbers.
Courier fraud often targets the elderly and vulnerable. The victim
receives a phone call from fraudsters who say they are from their bank
or the police. They tell the victim that they are calling because there
has been suspicious activity on their account and advice them to call
the bank from the number on the back of their card, which helps the
victim believe the call is genuine. The victim disconnects the phone
and dials their bank or police, however the fraudster has kept the
telephone line open so even though a number is dialed, it is not
connected and the victim is still on the line to the fraudster, who then
gains their trust and asks them to either say or key in their pin, before
telling them their card will be collected and a replacement delivered.
Once the fraudster has all the information they need, a courier is sent
to collect the card from the victim, and a replacement is delivered at the
same time, which is not a genuine bank card.
Bring A Pound To Work Day Friday 24th April
One Day. One Pound. Make a Difference.
Just collect £1 from everyone in your workplace. Any profession.
Anyone. Anywhere.
Last year! s take a £1 to work day was a great success raising £4,193
and we want to make this year bigger and better than ever. All you need
to do is o5rganise your colleagues and get everyone to bring in £1, if
you would like to arrange additional activities on the day such as a
Dress Down Day, cake sale or a sponsored challenge, that would be
fantastic! Anything you can do to help raise funds and awareness will
make a difference.
To register your workplace or school to take part in our fourth Bring a
Pound to Work Day, please email: [email protected]. If you
work on your own you can simply text KHOX17 £1 to 70070
KATHARINE HOUSE HOSPICE LOTTERY
Our lottery is a vital income source for Katharine House, having raised
over £1 million since May 2000. If you! re stuck for a birthday present
idea, we have a variety of Lottery Gift Membership solutions. For £1
per week you might get a phone call on a Friday morning from Wendy
our Lottery Administrator telling you that you! ve won £1,000- Wendy
loves making that call! For more information email [email protected].
The offender has therefore obtained the name, address, full bank
details, the card itself and the PIN of the victim. The bank cards are
then used fraudulently.
Advice to protect yourself against courier fraud
• If you think you have received one of these calls use another
phone line, mobile or other method to contact your bank who will
take steps and inform the police.
• If you can only use the same phone, disconnect the call and wait at
least 10 minutes before you dial.
• If an offender is nearby or you feel in danger dial 999.
• If you have handed over any details to the fraudster, inform your
bank and cancel your cards immediately.
KATHARINE HOUSE HOSPICE NEWSLETTER
Would you like to keep up to date with all the Hospice! s news, stories
and fundraising events? We publish a twice-yearly newsletter and would
be delighted to send you a copy. Our spring-summer 2015 newsletter
will be sent out in early April. Please contact KHH Fundraising.
Contacts:
Fundraising: 01295 812161
Email: [email protected]
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/katharinehouse
Website: www.khh.org.uk
Twitter: @KHHospice
TWITTER
You can also follow us on Twitter @_ThamesVP alternatively you can
give us a " like! on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/thamesvp
THAMES VALLEY ALERT
Receive free local crime alerts and crime prevention advice by signing
up to Thames Valley Alert. Visit the website at:
www.thamesvalleyalert.co.uk
You can contact the team by emailing:
[email protected]
or you can call us on 101 our non-emergency number.
Please dial 999 in an emergency.
Polling Day May 7th 2015
Are you registered to vote?
Registration for the electoral role has changed and
anyone entitled to vote must register him or herself
by April 20th 2015. You may have already received
a letter confirming that you are registered. If you
have not or you! re not sure whether you! re
registered, call or go online to check:
www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
phone Cherwell District Council
01295 227005
4
CHURCH NEWS
Dear friends,
A few weeks ago I saw ‘The Imitation Game’, the powerful story of cryptanalyst Alan Turing. The film portrays the nail-biting race
against time by Turing and his brilliant team of code-breakers at Britain's top-secret Government Code and Cypher School at
Bletchley Park, during the darkest days of World War II. Alan Turing and others are hired by the British government to work on a
secret project to break what is largely seen as the unbreakable secret code behind the Nazis' communications machine, named
Enigma, which if they can, would give the Allies an advantage and possibly even end the war. The problem is that Enigma is recoded
every day, so that even if the team can decipher a coded message transmitted by the Nazis, that code would be obsolete by the next
day. It is a brilliant film with equal amounts of joy and frustration. In the midst of the success of the code-breakers there is an
unresolved moral dilemma about the innocent blood of Allied soldiers which, once the code was broken, had to be shed whilst the
next move was planned. Too much Allied success would have given the game away. As the film unfolds and ends the treatment of
Alan Turing is a sobering reminder of the power of prejudice.
We are about to enter once more into the drama of Passiontide and Easter. For Christians the Easter story solves another enigma. I
wonder how long it would take for the best brains to work out this enigma: how can sinful people be reunited with their holy and
just God? The problem is by no means straightforward.
Since God is holy, sinful people cannot enter his presence safely. This is the message demonstrated in the restrictions in the Old
Testament tabernacle and temple. The message of the system of courtyards, curtains, inner rooms, cleansing rituals, sacrifices, and
exclusive priesthood is clear: sinful people are not allowed to enter the presence of God in the Holy of Holies. Destruction awaited
those who approached God unprepared. The prophet Isaiah understood this when he was swept along in a vision of God in the
temple. Isaiah cried out: ‘I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips…and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty’ (Isaiah
6:5).
We might say the solution should be for God to overlook our sin. But God is just and sin cannot be ignored. Like a reasonable
parent, God is true to his words of warning. Sin demands a verdict. Therefore the writer of Hebrews says, ‘Man is destined to die
once, and after that to face judgment’ (Hebrews 9:27). We would assume from these findings that sinful people like us must face
God’s judgment and be barred forever from the presence of God.
The Christian message would hardly be good news if this was all there was to say! Unfortunately some people do twist Christianity
into this hopeless, judgmental religion. An alternative answer could be that God presents us with the task of appeasing him and
trying to make amends for our sins. However the building up of a ‘treasury of merit’ to counteract our sins is a long discredited
Christian idea which cannot be substantiated in the bible, although some religions do promote this as the pathway to God.
Thankfully God not only shows us the problem but provides us with the solution: God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that
in him we might become the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21). The ‘him’ of that verse is Jesus Christ.
In a wonderful act of love and mercy God provided a substitute for us someone to take our sin upon himself (thus freeing us from its consequences)
and give us what we lack: righteousness and with it freedom to enter God’s
presence. This is the great exchange that is at the heart of Easter. As the sky
darkened that first Good Friday the weight of the sins of the world fell upon the
shoulders of Christ. In the silence of Easter Eve the disciples waited to see
what, if anything, the sorrow and pain of Christ would achieve. Then the
resounding answer – the power of sin and death destroyed and the empty
tomb, signaling the promise of spiritual life in all its fullness. This great
exchange enables us to know God and enter his presence as his children. This
privilege begins when we accept Jesus Christ as our Saviour and will last
forever. The enigma has been solved once and for all.
Happy Easter! We have many opportunities in the churches of the benefice
to celebrate this good news. Please come and join us.
Yours in the service of Jesus Christ, Stephen
5
CHERWELL VALLEY SERVICES
St Mary's
Ardley
29-Mar
Palm
Sunday
Mon
30-Mar
St Olave's
Fritwell
St Mary's
Lower
Heyford
& Caulcott
St James
Somerton
Ann to the
BVM
Souldern
St Mary's
Heyford Park
Upper
The Chapel
Heyford
BENEFICE Family Communion Service - 11am Fritwell
10am
Communion
7pm
Compline
7pm
Compline
Tues
31 Mar
10am
Communion
7pm
Compline
Wed
1 Apr
10am
Communion
7:30pm
Communion/
foot washing
10-12
Childrens
Easter
Workshop
Thurs
2-Apr
3 Apr
Good
Friday
4pm
Quiet
refelection
5-Apr
Easter
Sunday
8.30am
1662 HC
12-Apr
9:30
Family
Communion
& APCM
19-Apr
9:30
Morning
Prayer
26-Apr
9:30
Family
Worship
3-May
8.30am
1662 HC
8.30am
6.30am
9:30
11am
9:30
11am
1662
Sunrise
Family
Family
Family
Communion
Communion
Service
Communion Communion Communion
8.30am
11:00
9:30
11:00
9:30
11am
1662 HC
Family
Sunday
Sung
Morning
Morning
4.00pm
Worship
Club
Communion
Prayer
Service
Messy
Church
11am
09:30
9:30
11:00
11:00
8.30am
Morning
Matins
Morning
Morning
Family
1662 HC
Service
& HC
Prayer
Prayer
Communion
11:00
11am
11am
9.30
8.30am
Family
6:00
Morning
All Age
Family
1662 HC
Evensong Communion
Prayer
Service
Communion
& APCM
9.30am
11am
11:00
Traditional
11:00
11am
Family
Family
language Communion
Matins
Communion
Worship
Communion
Services described as 1662, Matins or Evensong follow the traditional form as laid out in The Book of Common Prayer.
Services described as CW (Common Worship) use modern language and follow the revised form given in the Common Worship
Service and Prayer Book.
Services described as Family Worship or Contemporary Worship are suitable for all ages, including children.
The Cherwell Valley Benefice in the Diocese of Oxford www.cherwellvalleybenefice.org.uk
Rev Stephen Griffiths
01869 222572
[email protected]
Rev Geoff Price
01869 346262
[email protected]
Mr. John Hine (LLM)
01869 278565
Benefice Office
01869 233687
[email protected]
BENEFICE OFFICE
Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday,
& Friday 9:30am—2:30pm
www.cherwellvalleybenefice.org.uk
572 Brice Road
Heyford Park
OX25 5TE
6
To book a wedding or baptism
Tel: 01869 233687
[email protected]
CHERWELL VALLEY NEWS
What’s Happening
Easter weekend
Annunciation to the
Blessed Virgin Mary
(St Mary’s) Souldern
Maundy Thursday
APCM
Communion & Foot Washing
Tuesday 28th April
7pm in the Village Hall
7:30 at The Chapel, Heyford Park
All Welcome
Good Friday
Children’s Easter Workshop
Save the Date!
Fun, Activities & Teaching
10am-12mid-day
The Chapel, Heyford Park
St Mary’s, Souldern
Cheese & Wine
Quiet Reflection
4:00pm St Mary! s Ardley
4th July 2015
Messy Church
Easter Sunday
Has moved!
He is Risen!
And is now taking place at
St Olave’s Church, North Street
12th April, 4.00-5.30
6:30am Sunrise Service
( 2nd Sunday of every month, same time and place)
Annun to the BVM Souldern
Theme: Easter
8:30 1662 Communion
St Mary! s Ardley
St Mary! s Upper Heyford
9:30 Family Communion
St Olave! s Fritwell
St James Somerton
All ages are welcome for a time of craft,
stories, celebration and food. Children need to
bring an adult!
11:00 Family Communion
Everyone welcome - just come along!
St Mary! s Lower Heyford
The Chapel Heyford Park
(Admission Free – Donations Welcome)
For any enquiries, please contact Grace on:
07908227625
7
CHAPEL NEWS
Souldern Chapel
Fritwell Wesleyan Reform Church
I believe that April's issue of the Three Parishes covers some of
the most important events in our Christian history. They all lead up
to the great celebration of Easter.
I would like to say thank you to Don Walker for stepping in for one
of our preachers who was unable to fulfil his appointment in
March. We are looking forward to Frank Ultsch doing a special
service to celebrate St George! s Day on 26th April at 10.30 a.m.
On Easter Day, the day of joyful celebration, Jesus was raised
from the dead by Almighty God. His work of gaining salvation for
us was accomplished for all time and for all people.
Some of our members were able to attend the Women! s World
Day of Prayer on Friday 6th March at Heyford Park. We also
joined in the Mothering Day service at St Mary's Church, Ardley.
It is good that we can worship together on these special
occasions.
Easter Day can be summed up in three short statements that
come from the witness of the disciples of Jesus. They thought He
was dead. They heard He was alive. They met the Living Christ.
Read and consider the account in the Gospels books again with
open hearts and minds.
In April services are at 6.00pm and 10.30am alternately:
A commentator from the past said, “Easter cannot be proved,
argued, debated, and solved (in mere human terms). Easter
has to be experienced, felt and lived. The Living Lord must be
confronted on the road we travel.”
APRIL
5th 6 pm.
12th 10.30 am.
19th 6 pm.
26th 10.30 am.
Perhaps the most amazing thing is that the Lord Jesus has
promised resurrection to all who put their trust in Him as Saviour
and Lord. For the joy of the resurrection is for today and for
everyday.
Looking ahead on Thursday 14th May at 7.30 p.m. Rev. Geoff
Price is going to lead our Ascension Day service and Communion
will be observed.
Have a blessed Easter.
Rev. John
We are pleased that our friends from the Chipping Norton circuit
are coming again on 23rd May at 7 p.m. to entertain us. (See
poster)
Preachers for April 2015.
5th. April @ 6.00 p.m. Easter Day. Service and Communion Rev.
John Goulder.
12th. April @ 6.00 p.m. Mrs. Margaret Goulder.
19th. April @ 6.00. p.m. Mr. John Neal.
26th. April @ 6.00 p.m. Mrs. Wendy Manley.
Everyone is welcome to attend any of the above events.
We continue to pray for those who are unwell, for their families
and for anyone who has been bereaved recently. We pray
Doreen! s second cataract operation, which she has towards the
end of April, will be a success.
Joan Harris
Oxfordshire Carers Forum
Are you aware of Oxfordshire Carers Forum? We are a charity
based in Abingdon who provide support and services to Carers all
over Oxfordshire. If you or someone you know is a carer you can
take advantage of this information.
We provide three very special services to Carers:
1. Carers Voice
We enable carers to have their voice heard and influence services
by keeping them informed about changes, finding out what they
think about them and making sure their views are passed on to
those who can do something about them.
2. Confidence 2 Care
Aimed at improving support for carers aged 18 and over, free local
group sessions allow development of caring knowledge and skills.
Confidence 2 Care will:
• Help build on strengths as a carer.
• Give the opportunity to share experiences and learn from others
in similar situations.
• Provide up to date information about services available to
carers.
• Help with decisions about changes to the caring role.
3. Telephone support and Signposting opportunities
We provide a telephone support service on 01235 520440 between
09:00 and 16:00 daily. We also work in partnership with Carers
Oxfordshire a newly established organisation in Oxfordshire who
provide support to Carers who are new to the role or established
carers when things have changed. Carers Oxfordshire can also give
benefits advice and support through home visits.
Contact: Michelle Evans,
Oxfordshire Carers Forum. Charity No. 1032918
Tel: 01235 520440 www.oxoncarersforum.org.uk
8
Rev J Williams
Mr I Hearle
Mrs E Brown
Rev F Ultsch
ARDLEY-WITH-FEWCOTT
GENERAL NEWS: Please continue to keep an eye on lonely,
poorly or elderly neighbours and of course Mr. Brahmbhatt of
Fewcott House is always delighted when anyone can visit residents
there. Just give them a call on 345501 if you can spare a moment or
two for a chat.
REMINDER: A-w-F Fuel Charity has two Village wheelchairs and
one walker available to all local residents if and when needed.
These are held at Millwood, Water Lane (Tel: 345269).
VIRIDOR LIAISON MEETING: Next Meeting 15/4/2015 at 4pm at
ERF.
A-w-F PARISH COUNCIL MEETING: Meeting took place on 9/3/15.
Present were 6 Councillors, OCC Catherine Fulljames and CDC
Barry Wood together with five Villagers. After amendments and
Minutes, Catherine updated us on foster care, broadband, Howes
Lane diversion planned in Bicester and Bucknell Road, commercial
development proposed on Howes Lane/Middleton Stoney
roundabout. Also mentioned was lighting of incinerator at night with
visit of OCC planned to see for themselves, Community Fund
allocation to Footpath Project, mud on B430, effect of work on new
railway possibly also affecting HS2, roads around Graven Hill
development. Barry updated us on Herbley House fencing with
promises to contact new person handling and way forward. Concern
expressed by PC on principle involved and CDC Planning's
handling of situation. Meeting informed of resignation of Jon O'Neil
with election of new District Councillor proposed for same day as
General Election. Meanwhile James Macnamara (mainly involved
with Upper Heyford/Dorchester and boundaries there) will take
responsibility for area and Barry always available. Local Plan
mentioned due to come out at end March with plans to run a
workshop. However Gen Elec puts stop on any decisions until after
this occurs. OCC/CDC Councillors left and Planning debated
especially work on Hall Car Park and VAT question, how to reclaim
this, help from ORCC, movement of funds from Viridor on this,
layout of Car Park reported and materials to be used with tarmac
which will weather, markings to allow more parking, and positioning
of Bottle Bank. Report on Footpath Project and costings, also with
VAT problems and reclamation. Rural Housing progress delayed
until after Gen Elec but another 'needs' survey could take place.
Tom McCullock/Gary Owen invited to attend July PC. Deborah to
liaise. Site still available for small development of 6 houses set back
from but parallel with B430. Finance discussed with payment of bills
received proposed and seconded. Precept due next month. AOB
covered change of date of next Meeting to 19/5/15 at 7.30 in
Meeting Room, ads for new Councillor to replace John Lewis and
also for new Parish Clerk to be inserted in 3Ps, and finally
suggestion that Facebook entry should be created. Meeting closed
at 9pm.
DOGGIE BAGS: Did you know that you can obtain 300 TESCO
EVERYDAY VALUE NAPPY BAGS for 35p which are completely
adequate for picking up after your pet. BE A GOOD CITIZEN AND
THINK OF OTHER PEOPLE BY PICKING UP. Do be concerned
and thoughtful of others as most pet owners here are.
WELCOME: A very warm welcome and hello to DAVID and
TRACEY DEAN and son CHRIS who have come to live in Ardleywith-Fewcott and will be running the WHITE LION in FEWCOTT. It
is great to have you all here and we hope you will soon settle down
and become a wonderful addition to the Village. The White Lion
opened for business on 27th February with a buffet and champagne
evening and we do hope all will enjoy this new and exciting venture.
Welcome also to JEAN and GRAHAM FAIR, canine friends
SCOOBY and WOODY, and feline friend, TABBY, all of Station
Road, Ardley. We hope you will all grow to love this smashing
Village.
AFECT: A Meeting was held on 3/3/15 with much progress
discussed on the proposed Footpath Project for this Village and
Fritwell. Both Parish Councils are backing the scheme and it is also
hoped to obtain the feelings of the Villages by circulating a brief
questionnaire. Discussions also took place on the Quarry Field,
Ardley Wood and the Tree Planting on the Field. The AGM of
AFECT will take place in the Meeting Room of the Village
Community Centre on 12/5/15 starting at 8pm when the Village will
be updated with the year's activities. Please make every effort to
attend.
LITTERBLITZ WEEKEND: What a truly magnificent response to the
joint venture tree-planting and Litterblitz weekend. The enthusiasm
was tremendous, especially enhanced by the beautiful Springlike
Saturday weather. 29 people helped to make our Village look truly
beautiful once more. So a great big thank you Madeleine Horn,
Geoff & Lynne Dale, Pat & Megan Hockley, Mick Ryall, Madeleine &
Brian Gilpin, Paul & Janet Hodgkin, Penny and Stewart, Andy, Sian
& Amy Whittard, Hugh & Tikki Potter, Wally McKie, Ged Bowers,
Ian & Denise Turner, Kelly,Clive, David & Shaun Shellard, Gemma,
Adam and Keira, and Karen Gray for such a magnificent effort and
hard work. Especial thanks also to the unknown persons who
emptied the Village litterbins.
RENEE BARBER'S POTTERIES TRIP: Don't forget Renee's
wonderful Stoke-on-Trent Potteries Trip on Monday, 13 April. You
may be lucky, if you contact Renee quickly, to get a seat on this
very popular and interesting day out.
TALKING OF LITTER: Although the Litterblitz achieves a great
deal, work would be more than halved if all residents were to keep a
kindly eye on the patch outside their homes and just pick up,
whenever they notice it, any litter left thoughtlessly near their
houses. Just give it a try and it would REALLY be very much
appreciated by us all. Thanks.
SIDESPERSONS ROTA FOR APRIL/MAY 2015:
5 Apr Colin McGarry; 12 Apr Jenni Carr; 19 Apr Madeleine Horn; 26
Apr Sylvia Pickford; 3 May Carol Bannister.
COMMUNITY CAFE at A-w-F: Every Tuesday morning from 10.30
to 11.30am there is a meeting of the older residents (50 years
upwards) in the Meeting Room or Village Hall to take part in various
activities. We have had 'how to use Wii Games', " How to improve
your computer and ipad skills' and 'generation games' so far and all
of these have been most enjoyable and at an understandable level
for all. Today we have had such fun with 'sitting down exercises to
music' which was really relaxing and everyone joined in. We meet
lots of Village residents and have refreshments of home made
cakes, tea and coffee for £1.50 to cover the cooking costs. WHY
NOT COME ALONG AND JOIN US AS YOU REALLY WILL BE
ENTERTAINED AND HAVE FUN. There will be other activities
which YOU can suggest and we will try and accommodate you.
Lynne Roberts [email protected]
BICESTER FOOD BANK: Bicester Food Bank still needs your
continued support especially at this difficult and cold time of the
year when things are rather costly, so we are asking for your
kindness and concern by providing one or two items a week (if you
can) such as soup, cereals, eggs, biscuits, cans of vegetables/
meat/fish, soft drinks, packets of rice/pasta/couscous, long life milk,
tea/sugar/coffee/chocolate and other non-perishable foods. Contact
Angela Chamberlain on 345332, Madeleine Horn on 346621 or
Madeleine Gilpin on 345269 and they will be able to tell you more
about the scheme and where you can leave your gifts. As you know
access to vouchers for Food Bank help is through a doctor, Social
Services Departments, Citizen's Advice Bureau or a Church Vicar.
A-w-F SPRING CHURCHYARD TIDY-UP: It would be lovely to see
some wonderful people coming to help with the annual Springtime
Churchyard Tidy-up which, this year, will be on Saturday, 11 April
2015 meeting up at the Churchyard gateway at 10am. We are
doing something slightly different at the end of the session though.
We plan to do a 'Lenten-style' snack luncheon of soup, rolls and
cheese to finish which we hope will refresh all the workers. Do try
and come along and lend a hand. You will be warmly welcomed and
you know what they say, 'many hands make light work'. There is
much to do and we need some help please. Please bring whatever
tools you can, such as secateurs, shears, rakes, baskets for twigs,
etc. and gloves.
49ERS CLUB: We are on the lookout for folk who are interested in
joining the 49ers Club. Please get in touch with Madeleine (345269)
or Ian Cato (Millen Cottage, Church Street) who will be able to tell
you more about the scheme. You could win £25 on a Saturday or
Wednesday Bonus Ball Draw with the National Lottery.
9
ARDLEY-WITH-FEWCOTT
ARDLEY AND FEWCOTT GARDENING CLUB
Ardley with Fewcott Village Hall
36 members and friends will be departing on the 17 April for the
weekend visit to Derbyshire & the Peaks. A report on this visit will
hopefully appear in the June edition of the 3Parishes.
Looking for a Special Venue for a Children’s
Party?
This year, why not book the hall for your children! s party!
The spacious hall gives them masses of room to run around and has a
high roof that can easily accommodate a bouncy castle.
There are fairy lights from the ceiling to help make it special, a well
stocked kitchen and, of course, a fantastic play area outdoors.
Friday 1 May Pashley Manor Tulip Festival
Bookings are required no later than the 24 April. Open to nonmembers coach and entrance £20 Coach Pick up times are as
follows:Souldern Top Rd 8am (if any bookings)
Fritwell 8.05am
Ardley 8.15am
Bucknell 8.20am
Bucknell Rd 8.25am
Buckingham Rd 8.30am
Manorsfield Rd 8.35am
It is planned to depart the gardens at 4.30pm approx.
Returnable
Damage
Cleaning
Deposit for all
of the below is
£30
Residents
Per
Hour
*Would you like to put yourself forward to serve as one of the
committee? You would need to make yourself available to attend
meetings during the day or evening and help out at events where
required, the main event being the Flower & Produce Show which
requires you being present for most of the show day and the
Friday before to set up. There is a lot of heavy lifting i.e. tables
and preparation involved.
A new committee will be elected by club members at the AGM
(June 26 TBC) along with any proposed changes to the
constitution document that will be open for discussion. Please let
it be known if you would like to be considered for election, so that
a list of candidates can be made know to all.
Hall
Meeting Room
Hall & Meeting
Room
Kitchen Ovens
Sessions during
9am to 4pm
Evening Party
Main Hall +
Kitchen
It! s still not too late to vote for the planned coach outing in June to
either Penhurst Place or a scenic tour of the New Forest. If you
haven! t already given your vote please do so as soon as
possible.
4pm to
Midnight
(Includes clean
up period to
10am the
following day
Tree planting at Ardley Wood – A Saturday in March
With the prospect of 40 small trees to plant, the weather would
be crucial in how well we succeeded. Not just with the physical
environment, (please don! t let it rain, # mud mud# isn! t so glorious
when it! s wet), but in the attraction of people to rally around the
cause if the sun has got its Mac on). In the event the day was
good to us and a small band of helpers completed the task with
only a one blister, perhaps a few stiff joints and hopefully a good
sense of community pride and satisfaction.
Day
(24hrs)
Non-Residents
Per
Hour
Day
£11
£ 5.50
£110
£33
£16.50
£8.25
(24 hrs)
£165.00
£55.00
£16.50
£133
£24.75
£220.00
£5.50
£27.50
£35 for 4 Hours.
£5.50
£27.50
£45 for 4 Hours
£11 for every extra
Hour
£16.50 for every extra
Hour
Week
Day
£66 +
£60
Damage
/cleaning
Deposit
Week
End
£110 +
£100
Damage /
cleaning
Deposit
Week
Day
Week
End
£88 +
£132 +
£120
Damage
£80
Damage /
cleaning
Deposit
/cleaning
Deposit
For more information visit www.ardleywithfewcottvillagehall.com or to
arrange to view the hall, contact
[email protected] or telephone Lynne 01869
346632
ARDLEY WITH FEWCOTT PARISH COUNCIL
Would you like the opportunity to shape the future of your village?
Do you have:
•
A keen interest in supporting your local community
•
Time to attend bimonthly Parish Council Meetings
•
Interest, time and skills to lead on one or more of the PC! s
current or future specialist interest areas These currently
include $ Rural Affordable Housing, CDC Parish Liaison,
Neighbourhood Plan, Flood Risk Management, Viridor
Liaison, Agrivert Liaison, Allotment Fund, Affect.
AFECT (Ardley with Fewcott Environmental Committee ) was
replacing trees planted a few years ago with the help of the
children of Fritwell school. The trees had not survived a very dry
summer coupled with poor soil, attacks by animals and some
very windy days. Nicholson! s Nurseries in North Aston have
given us the new trees and protective tubing. It may be
necessary to thin out the trees as they mature.
Our thanks must go to the volunteers Andy and Amy Whittard,
Julie Hodges, Carol Bannister, Pat and Megan Hockley, Jackie
Smith, Janet and Paul Hodgkin, Hugh Potter and Richard
Mellersh. Richard! s long steel bar was invaluable in prising out a
very stubborn layer of stones. Hugh! s special shovels also had
quite an impact.
If you are interested in becoming a Parish Councillor or would like
to know more about what is involved then please contact the Chair
of the Parish Council, Chris Thornton, initially by email at
[email protected]
PARISH CLERK WANTED
Do you have:
•
Excellent IT skills
•
Excellent written communication skills
•
Time to attend bimonthly Parish Council Meetings
•
A keen interest in supporting your local community
Ardley-with-Fewcott Parish Council also needs a mention for
their ongoing support of this and our other environmental
projects.
Special thanks to Brian Gilpin who was a stalwart on the day
and to Madeleine Gilpin for the tireless work she carried out in
organising trees, sleeves and many other tasks behind the
scenes
Then the role of Parish Clerk might be ideal for you.
Yearly stipend paid.
If you might be interested or to find out more please email
[email protected]
Mike Stokes, Chair, AFECT
10
FRITWELL
FRITWELL PARISH COUNCIL
Community Emergency Plan
Election of Parish Councillors: elections for new members of the
Parish Council take place on the same day as the parliamentary
elections, 7th May. This is your chance to take a role in decision
making on matters relating to the village. Although sometimes it
might seem as though nothing we do can make a difference, it is
certainly better than standing on the side-lines, being ignorant of
what is happening in your community or being without a voice on
matters that concern you. It is also an opportunity for you to give
something back to your community. The nomination forms are with
the new Clerk (contact details below) and must be submitted by
hand no later than 4pm on April 9th, so please give the matter some
serious thought and stand for election! Look out for posters giving
further information.
The Parish Council is in the process of developing an
Emergency Plan for dealing with community emergencies
such as heavy snowfall closing us in or lengthy utility
failure. In the meantime, for guidance on dealing with heavy
snowfall please enter Winter Weather into your search
engine. Meanwhile, here is some Met Office advice.
Met Office Advice on severe weather
We warn the public and emergency responders of severe or
hazardous weather which has the potential to cause danger to life or
widespread disruption through our National Severe Weather Warning
Service. Make sure you know what to do when severe weather is
forecast.
Spring Clean: the much-needed annual litter-picking will be on the
morning of Saturday 18th May. As usual, gloves, pickers and bags
will be provided, not to mention the free bacon butties in the Scout
Hut for those taking part! Look out for the notices around the village
for final details.
Keep up to date
The first thing to do is to check your local weather forecast on Radio
Oxford and keep up to date with the latest warnings. Remember that
you can also get this information on our mobile apps if you are out and
about so you can always stay up to date. Or you can call the
Weatherdesk on 0870 900 0100.
Mid Cherwell Neighbourhood Plan: At the time of submitting this
piece the inspector had not yet reported on the Cherwell Local Plan
and the boundaries of the Neighbourhood Plan have to be agreed by
the executive of Cherwell District Council. However work is going
ahead on the details of the plan to prevent further delay.
Know the key messages
Warnings are given a colour depending on a combination of both the
likelihood of the event happening and the impact the conditions may
have. Each colour has a key message.
Report of the Remuneration Panel: this was considered by
members who unanimously agree not to be paid any expenses.
Know what to expect and what action to take
Clerk to the Parish Council: this is my last report as Parish Clerk
and I should like to thank all Councillors for the support, help and
guidance I have received over the past twelve years. Thank you,
also, to all of you who have shown interest in what has been going
on in the village and have supported my efforts as Clerk in one way
or another. I know that the same support will be given to the new
Clerk, Gill Simmonds, who takes over from 1st April and I wish her
well in what is a very fulfilling role.
The table below provides examples of the kind of disruption that
might be experienced for each impact level (high, medium, low). Note
that weather assessed as having a "Very Low" impact may still have
some minor impacts.
Next Meeting: Annual General Meeting followed by Annual Parish
Meeting on Monday 18th May at 7.30pm in the Village Hall
Impact and
advice
applying to
ALL
SEVERE
WEATHER
Helen Metcalfe
Parish Clerk from 1st April: Gillian Simmonds, East Stone
Lodge, 5, East Street. Telephone, 345930 email
[email protected]
Fritwell Cushion Club Dates for 2015
Fridays—8pm start
www.thecushionclub.co.uk
13th March
10th April
22nd May
19th June
10th July
18th Sept
16th Oct
13th Nov
11th Dec
Hi There,
I have been talking about writing a book about Fritwell for a few years
now and have started gathering information and lots of photographs.
This book is going to cover life in the village for the last 100 years
based on stories and anecdotes with lots of photographs. If you would
like to submit stories and photographs please contact me on 01869
346652 or by email [email protected]. When I have gained
enough information I will arrange an evening at the VH to discuss any
editing.
Charles Hughes
11
Very Low
GREEN
Low
YELLOW
Medium
AMBER
High
RED
Weather not
expected to
have
noticeable
impacts but
extra care
may be
needed on
occasions
and there
may be
some
disruption to
outdoor
events.
BE AWARE
and ensure
you access
the latest
weather
forecast for
up to date
weather
information.
Expect
some minor
delays due
to slower
traffic.
Outdoor
events may
be disrupted
or cancelled.
BE
PREPARED
. Take
precautions
where
possible and
ensure you
access the
latest
weather
forecast.
BE
PREPARED
for some
disruption to
normal daily
routines.
Travel only if
well
prepared
and BE
PREPARED
for longer
journey
times.
TAKE
precautionar
y ACTION
and remain
extra
vigilant.
Follow
orders and
any advice
given by
authorities
under all
circumstanc
es. Ensure
you access
the latest
weather
forecast.
EXPECT
significant
disruption to
normal daily
routines.
Avoid all
nonessential
journeys.
If you must
make a
journey
carry
emergency
food/
clothing/
blanket etc.
SOULDERN
12
SOULDERN
THURSDAY 16th APRIL 2015
SOULDERN VILLAGE HALL AGM @ 7pm. For more information call 07813 071936
Support your Village Hall, hear more about the plans for the future and voice your views
OBITUARY—RODNEY ALLAN
TO BOOK
SOULDERN VILLAGE HALL
Souldern Church was full on 29th January for the funeral of
Rodney Allan. He had enjoyed a happy Christmas lunch with
friends but was taken ill on Boxing Day and died in the John
Radcliffe the following day.
Please contact Kate Green: 07812 501604
for further information
[email protected]
Rodney came to Pond Cottage, Souldern in 2002 and
immediately became a hard working and popular presence in
the village, always much in demand at every social function.
Educated at Winchester and Trinity Oxford, he became an
inspirational prep schoolmaster teaching Classics, History,
Maths and Sport and was joint headmaster at Horris Hill near
Newbury.
HIRE CHARGES
Souldern Groups
£7 per hour (up to 5 hrs.)
£40 per day (more than 5 Hours)
Deposit £50
In retirement he kept his many interests in sports, music,
Northumberland, history, teaching, and Nelson amongst
others. Many children were coached successfully and happily
by him and he offered free Latin and Greek lessons to any
w h o
w o u l d
c o m e !
Souldern residents
£7 per hour (up to 5 hrs.) Deposit £60
£60 per day (more than 5 Hours)
Above all he gave his time and energy unstintingly to the
churches in all three of the parishes, playing the organ for
many services, opening and locking up St. Marys, and
singing in, and eventually taking on, the choir. All this often
when in great pain, as he had been continually for several
years before his death. He had never played an organ before
he came to Souldern but taught himself in order to be able to
help at services.
Non-Residents Hire Costs:
£13 per hour (up to 5 hrs.)
£120 per day (more than 5 Hours) includes
cleaning charge Deposit £100
Souldern Parish Council
Countless children and people of all ages had enjoyed
visiting the miniature H.M.S. Victory Quarter Deck which he
had built in his garden with all Nelson! s signals flying and
cannons ready to be run out and fired under expert
instruction!
He will be much missed by many for whom he was such an
interesting, interested and stimulating friend.
Diana Gray
Parish Council Election: This will take place on May
7th, the same day as the General Election. If anyone is
interested in serving their community on the Parish
Council nomination forms are available from the clerk.
Dog Bins have now been installed at the end of Bates
Lane and at the top of Wharf Lane and free dog bags
are available at the corner by Deepwell Cottage in the
High Street and at Spring Cottage by the Pond.
Gigaclear held a meeting in the village hall to provide
information on their fibre optic broadband options and a
brief explanation on the difference between what they
are offering and what BT are offering will be made in the
next Newsletter which will be distributed at the end of
March.
Planning: The conversion of a cattle building into a
single dwelling at Foxhill Barn, Somerton Road has
been refused and the rear extension and alterations at
The Old Forge in the High Street have been approved.
Two new applications, one for internal re-modelling and
a rear single storey extension and single garage at The
Hermitage in the High Street and the other for a single
storey, flat roof extension at Westend House in Bates
Lane are currently under consideration.
Spring Clean: Litter picking and a general tidy up of
our beautiful village has been arranged for the last
weekend in April. Look out for further details in the
Newsletter and if you would like to help please contact
the clerk
Barbara mcgarry (clerk) 01869 345931
[email protected]
SOULDERN HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
Our website is easy to navigate, friendly, colourful and
informative. You can advertise unwanted plants, tools
etc., or if you want a particular plant you can ask
members if they can help.
http://souldernhorticulturalsociety.btck.co.uk
Programme for 2015
A.G.M. 7.30p.m.
9th April (Thurs)
B.B.Q. in The Pound
17th May (Sun)
Visit to Steane Park Gardens.
14th June (Sun)
Pre Show Meeting. 7.30p.m.
6th August (Thurs)
21st August (Fri) Setting up day. 2.0p.m.
Flower & Produce Show.
22nd August (Sat)
1st October (Thurs) Post Show meeting. 7.30p.m.
November (Thurs) Speaker to be arranged.
All events in the village hall unless stated otherwise.
Diana Stephens (Secretary)
(01869) 346692
13
COMMUNITY MATTERS
COUNCILLOR CALLING
MOBILE LIBRARY SERVICE DEVELOPMENTS
Elections, as every news outlet never lets us forget, are
heading our way on 7th May. In these parts, we! ve
obviously got the General Election, for which two
candidates are neighbours from this ward $ Conservative
Victoria Prentis from Somerton and Ukip! s Dickie Bird
from Heyford Park $ but also see my Cherwell District
colleague Mike Kerford-Byrne facing re-election and, in
some parishes, a third ballot paper for the parish council
to keep us busy in the polling station. General elections
usually boost turnout from the 30% who are interested in
councils (well, we! re more interesting than the Police and
Crime Commissioner, who found only 13% could be
bothered to vote at all!) to around 70%. However, this
time, with the result likely to be an unpredictable cliff
hanger, we must hope that maybe even more will want to
take part.
More building works have started in central Bicester, in
Franklins Yard car park. This is the final piece of the
town centre jigsaw (and so the last big disruption there)
and is due for completion by next February $ remarkably
quickly in my experience of builders! This multi purpose
construction is called the Bicester Community Building
as, in addition to a 53-bed hotel, office space and more
shops, it will house Cherwell! s local office (currently on
Market Square) and the County Council! s library.
Meanwhile, the more active will be interested in the land
to the south of the Middleton Stoney Road after the first
roundabout, where sports pitches have been quietly
growing for a couple of years and will shortly be joined by
pavilions, running tracks and parking, adding greatly to
our local facilities. Bicester Village will grow and improve
traffic flows with a % hamburger# roundabout and new park
and ride. At the other end of the shopping mall, when the
railway line reopens, the former Bicester Town station is
to be renamed Bicester Village $ upsetting traditionalists,
but, hopefully, helping shoppers and reducing traffic.
Meanwhile, further east at the former MoD land, now
bought by Cherwell, at Graven Hill, we! ve passed a Local
Development Order, which was a new one to me. This
sets design standards for new houses and acts like a
blanket planning permission, reducing the bureaucracy
both for the council and for the self-builders who will be
building or, at least, fitting out their homes there.
You will be able to follow the fortunes of the first dozen of
these on TV as Kevin McLeod is to feature them on
Grand Designs $ which could be somewhat nailbiting for
the council as, if any of them get into real trouble, it could
put future self builders off, while if it! s a success, it should
give the scheme a real boost.
Mobile homes, finally, (though often a misnomer as
many residents have been in them longer than I! ve lived
here!) are to get more protection as the long outdated
Caravan Sites Act 1960 has at last been replaced by the
Mobile Homes Act 2013. This, as well as giving tenants
greater security, makes Cherwell responsible for
ensuring the owners! compliance with site conditions.
Alerted by a report to the council! s Executive, Mike K-B
and I have received assurances that these powers will
not be used in any way which could land tenants with
extra costs or onerous conditions.
So, lots of mud and digging, and an election on the way:
it must be Spring !
James Macnamara
One of our readers contacted the OCC Library Service to
comment on the ‘consultation’ about the mobile service.
Here is the response he received:
Thank you for your enquiry about our recent review of
mobile library services in Oxfordshire and the position
regarding Ardley and Fewcott. I would like to reassure
you of the process we followed.
We undertook the recent review of the current use of
mobile library services in order to examine how those
services could be provided most effectively in future
within existing resources. We found that whilst the
service is clearly valued, many of the current stops are
not well used and some are not used at all and we
believe that we can make changes to our delivery that will
maximise our existing resources to bring significant
benefit for more people.
We carried out the consultation directly with those
members of the public that might be affected by any
proposed changes, i.e. the current users of our mobile
library services. All registered library members who use
mobile libraries were informed by letter that the
consultation on proposals for the future delivery of the
service would be taking place. Our mobile library
managers spoke to their customers about the proposed
changes and alternative service delivery. I did write to all
parish councils to inform them of our proposals.
There has not been a mobile stop at Fewcott for some
years; it was discontinued following the last service
review as it was not used. As far as Ardley is concerned,
we have not issued any books there since 2012 and
there were no customers for our drivers to talk to during
the consultation period. The alternatives that could be
available to the residents are: Bicester Library and mobile
stops at Stoke Lyne, Fritwell and Upper Heyford together
with the Home Library Service for those residents unable
to travel.
The proposal also puts in place an annual review of
routes and services, together with an in-year process to
review stops with declining use and to receive requests
from communities for additional stops.
Should the
circumstances be such in future, there will therefore be
the opportunity for us to consider putting in place a stop
for Ardley and Fewcott.
We will widely publicise any changes that may be made
to routes and details of how to receive the county Home
Library Service through the auspices of Parish Councils,
local notice boards and local media. However, as you
suggested in your email to Karen Batchelor that there
may be a number of residents in the village who would be
interested in my reply, I would be happy to come out to
your village to meet them, should that be thought helpful.
Jillian Southwell
Library Service Manager
Oxfordshire Libraries
14
Souldern Community Market
9:00-12:00 in the Village Hall
(3rd Saturday of the Month)
Locally sourced, grown, produced or baked
Meat (pork sausages & bacon), fresh organic vegetables,
Jams & Chutneys provided by Patrick’s Preserves
locally grown Plants,
(subject to availability)
NEW! FRESH CRUSTY BREAD
AND HOME BAKED CAKES
Breakfasts
Sausage/ Bacon/ Egg Baps
(to eat in or take out)
Come and enjoy a chat and a cup of tea/coffee with friends
Hand crafted Gifts, Cards & Jewellery
& Home Furnishings etc
Next Markets
Apr 18th, May 16th
Tel: 01869 345931 or email: [email protected] for further information or to book a stall
15
ADVERTISEMENTS
CARPETS * CARPETS * CARPETS * CARPETS
Carpets - Vinyl’s - Carpet Tiles - Safety Flooring - Contract Flooring
Carpet cleaning - Contract and Domestic
Station Road, Launton OX26 5DX
Est. 1966
Just give us a call, hundreds of samples available
Choose in the comfort of your own home
We move your furniture uplift and dispose of your old carpet
01869 322514
[email protected]
maskell-flooring.co.uk
Licensed to sell alcohol
t: 01869 250861
m: 07773 853640
e: bar-
I
ADVERTISEMENTS
Search for your Ancestors
Home FOOT
CARE
experience the relief and comfort from
Search For Your Ancestors
provides you with a committed,
experienced researcher and
genealogist at a very reasonable cost.
gentle footcare, in the relaxed environment of your
own home.
Nail cutting and reduction
Are you interested in who your ancestors were &
where they lived?
Do you want to find out what they did for a living?
Perhaps one of your ancestors fought for his country?
Perhaps a branch of your family emigrated?
Did they have a brush with law?
Removal of Corns and callus
Fungal nail treatment
Cracked ,dry Heels.
Foot Massage.
Angie Ward SAC DIP,FHPT,FHPP.
Maybe you have done some of your own research and
have got stuck......
07796 881157
Perhaps I can help you
[email protected]
Contact: Sue Wyatt
[email protected]
www.searchforyourancestors.co.uk
Fully Registered and Insured.
II
ADVERTISEMENTS
Bicester Computer
Centre
Making I.T. work for you
Est. 1999
Providing helpful, professional and friendly advice
We stock most hardware from full computers to mice, wired and wireless
networking components.
We also repair and service all makes of desktop and laptop computer
form hardware replacement to virus removal.
PC running slow or overheating laptop DC jack socket or screen broken?
Home visits arranged
Give us a call on:
01869 600123 or mobile 07796 486508
Or pop into the shop:
50 Bucknell Road
Bicester
OX26 2DG
Email:
[email protected]
Website: www.bicestercomputercentre.co.uk
Local and fully independent
Bullguard antivirus
approved reseller with
local support
The Fox & Hounds
at Ardley
PAW Bookkeeping
Bookkeeping Services for SME’s
Sales & purchase ledger
VAT returns
Bank reconciliations
Cash book
Accounts to trial balance
Year-end liaison with accountants
Traditional Real Ales
Great Home Cooked Food
Daily Specials
Accommodation
Excellent Sunday Roasts
Function Room with Bar
available to
Hire May to September
Penny Cummins AICB CB.Cert
Mobile: 07703 258009
Email:
[email protected]
PORTWAY CATTERY
Opening Hours
NOW OPEN
(formerly known as “Homecomforts”)
Monday to Friday 12-3pm and 5-10:30pm
Saturday Open All Day – 12 - 11pm
Sunday Open All Day - 12 - 10pm
Customers old & new welcome
Food Served Mon to Friday
12-3pm and 5- 9pm
All day Saturday & Sunday
E: [email protected]
T: 01869 345186
M: 07508 797224
www.portwaycattery.co.uk
Telephone 01869 346883
III
ADVERTISEMENTS
ROBERT McGARRY
YOUR LOCAL PLUMBING & HEATING
ENGINEER
Hackertys Way, Mill Lane, Souldern
Telephone: 01869 345280
ROBIN JAMES
YOUR LOCAL CARPENTER & JOINER
Telephone: 07931 661001
A L LOAKES
Oil Fired Boiler Service & Repairs
Tel: 01295 269718 / 07966 533524
ACKERMAN & NIECE
Purveyors of superior petroleum products
Finest service & keenest prices to
Three Parishes customers
We look forward to your call
Tel: 01869 340202 Fax: 01869 340074
Create childcare: Offering Daily childcare throughout the year
and during the school holidays.
Based in Croughton Village offering a friendly flexible service tailored to each individual child and their family.
We are qualified to level 3 in Early Years Childcare and Education and Forest
School trained, offering a unique opportunity for children to learn about nature
through their play in a natural outdoor environment.
The setting is located on the high street with a very large secure garden full of
many interesting and challenging play opportunities including A Pirate ship, Zip
wire, and Bush crafts.
Croughton is situated within close proximity to the M40 junction 9 and is accessible to Banbury, Buckingham, Bicester and Brackley.
Since September 2014 we have been running After School Care at Fritwell
Church of England School.
If you are interested in finding out more please call us on
07548522835
IV
or visit our: Website [email protected]
ADVERTISEMENTS
www.melsmanicures.co.uk
CND Shellac Manicures and Pedicures
Glitter Nails and Nail Art
Minx metallic nail wraps
Eye Lash Extensions
Waxing
Hi Brow waxing
Sienna X Spray tanning
Stable Barn, Meadow Drive, Fewcott
Call 07704-523 682
£5.00 off all treatments with this advert
Advertise Your Business Here in 2015
from just £35.00 for 10 issues
You can reach up to 600 homes in the Ardley,
Fritwell, Souldern
& surrounding area
email: [email protected]
or call: 07833 383563
V
ADVERTISEMENTS
R.J. Wakelin
Painting And Decorating
Specialist
Private/Commercial
Interior/Exterior
01869-243264
TUTOR AVAILABLE
Fully qualified and experienced Primary School teacher
with a detailed knowledge of the Primary Curriculum and
an up-to-date CRB check.
I am able to help your child make genuine progress in all
areas of the curriculum, but specialise in numeracy and
literacy.
The holidays are an ideal time to help increase your
child`s confidence and ability and to make sure they can
start the new school term with a head start.
I love teaching and have a friendly and relaxed approach
to lessons. I have developed a range of strategies to
help children progress and believe in making lessons as
fun and engaging as possible.
Since graduating in 2007 I have worked as a full-time
Primary school teacher in England and Australia and
have experience with both Key Stage 1 and 2. I have
also tutored pupils on a one-to-one basis, helping them
to prepare for SATs tests or just improve their literacy
and numeracy levels.
For more information
please contact Emily Johnson on 07786 165 801 or
email [email protected]
VI
ADVERTISEMENTS
Vicky Hibberd
SILVERSMITH
Commissions and repairs:
Cleaning
Restringing
Redesign
Personalised jewellery
Find me at Deddington Farmers’
Market every 4th Saturday 9am-noon
(in the church).
Mobile:
Email:
Tel: 07788 560174
VII
07872 003149
[email protected]
ADVERTISEMENTS
A Cohen
Airport runs
Travel in comfort and style in
one of our luxury
air-conditioned cars
For the holiday maker or
business traveller we ensure your
journeys are relaxed
Call us free on 07880 734895
for a no-obligation quote
or email us at [email protected]
A Cohen
VIII
ADVERTISEMENTS
TYRES
BATTERIES
BULLSHEAD GARAGE
(SOULDERN) LTD
01869 345281
MOT Testing Station
Servicing & Repairs
to most Makes of Cars
& Light Commercial Vehicles
Most Credit Cards accepted
EXHAUSTS
hga
N P SMITH
PAINTING, DECORATING &
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
Architectural Consultants
Interior & Exterior Work
Undertaken
Drawings for new build, alterations and extensions
Planning and Building Regulations
Residential and Commercial
25 Years Experience
Local & Reliable
Hamilton Gould Associates Ltd
Tower Fields, Souldern, Bicester OX27 7HY
Tel: 01869 345156
SHOCKABSORBERS
Contact Nick on 01280 840496
or 07979 756734
email: [email protected]
IX
ADVERTISEMENTS
PR HANDYMAN SERVICES
For all those Odd-Job Needed around the Home
Erecting Shelves, Curtain Rails, Boxing pipes, to building
Flat Pack Furniture
All aspect of DIY undertaken
No job to small
Please call Paul on 01295 722490 or 07796300238
For a Friendly Reliable Service at Reasonable Prices
“Your Project, our Passion”
Thinking about a building project but are worried
about costly legal, safety, programme and financial
pitfalls?
We are an independent
and local Company
providing practical advice
for your building or civil
engineering project.
With over 25 years’ experience, we can advise
on how you can avoid these issues and provide
the project management support to give you
peace of mind.
For a free, no obligation chat about your project
and how CPMS can help, contact:
Stuart Cummins C.Eng, MICE, RMaPS
Mobile: 07806 614616
Email:
[email protected]
Website: www.cumminspms.co.uk
LOGS FOR SALE
A & P BLAKE
FORESTRY SERVICES
Quality seasoned hardwood split
logs for sale, various sizes logs &
loads available.
Free Local Delivery!!!
01869 277815 or 07970 258165
We have 30 years experience in
delivering logs in Oxfordshire so
why not try us today.
X
Full Diagnostic Hearing Tests ● Latest Digital Hearing
Aids
Troubleshooting/Reprogramming ● Servicing &
Repairs
Batteries ● Noise Protection ● Swimplugs
Up to 60 day trial period
Practice Rooms in Horton Hospital and John Radcliffe
Hospital ● Home Visits available.
Souldern based family business.
Tel. 0845 680 1227 / 07974735811
Email: [email protected]
www.jameshearing.com
ADVERTISEMENTS
Kenneth Ozog
Your local painter and decorator
Free quotes
Over 20 years experience
The Lane, Fritwell
01869 345507 or 07941 626984
e-mail:
[email protected]
XI
ADVERTISEMENTS
Seamstress
Kim Steventon
PETER SOUTHAM
"A stitch in time is my line"
Building &
Home Maintenance Service
Sewing, Alterations, Tailoring & Re-designing.
Roofing, guttering, chimney problems
*
Carpentry, fencing, brick/stonework,
concrete paths, drives, patios & Garage Doors
*
Insurance approved
*For a personal service
*
Contact:
Evenings - 01869
345385
Mobile
Ring 01869 278333 or 07721 633220
- 07980
XII
Advertise Your Business Here in 2015
from just £35.00 for 10 issues
You can reach up to 600 homes in the
Ardley,
Fritwell, Souldern
& surrounding area
email: [email protected]
or call: 07833 383563
XIII