Ashton-under-Hill

The Beckford Parish Alstone & Magazine Teddington

August 2019 50p

The English winter - ending in July, To recommence in August.

Lord Byron, Don Juan (1819-24)

Schedule of Services for The Parish of Overbury with Teddington, Alstone and , with Beckford and .

AUGUST Ashton Beckford Overbury Alstone Teddington 10:30am 4th August Village Worship 9:00am 7th Sunday Church Team United Parish CW HC at Alstone after Trinity followed by D Lewis picnic 11th August 6:00pm 6:00pm 10:30am 8th Sunday Evening CW HC CW HC after Trinity Worship D Lewis D Lewis Lay Led 6:00pm 18th August 9:00am CW HC 9th Sunday CW HC D Lewis after Trinity R Tett

25th August 10:30am 10th Sunday United Parish Worship at Little Washbourne after Trinity D Lewis

SEPTEMBER

10:30am 1st September 9:00am Family 9:00am 11th Sunday BCP HC Service CW HC after Trinity L Burn Lay Team D Lewis

Holy Communion is celebrated at 10.00am on Wednesdays in St Faith’s Church, Overbury Morning Prayers will be said at 8.30am on Fridays at Ashton

Clergy: Revd David Lewis Revd Allison Davies Revd Rick Tett (Curate)

Parish Office: You can contact Lynne Wilkinson, the new Parish Secretary on the following days and times:

Tuesday mornings: Parish Office, 9am to 12noon: 01684 772398 Thursday mornings: Beckford Village Hall, 9am to 12 noon:01386 881349 or [email protected]

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I guess any introductory article should start by saying “Hello”, and so it is with great joy and much excitement that I say hello to everyone, as I prepare to start my journey with you, as the new Vicar of the Benefice of Eckington, Cum Besford with Overbury. My name is Allison Davies and I am married to Bob, and we have 4 children (Caroline, Alison, Robert and Megan) and 3 grandchildren. However, only Megan is still living partially with us, whilst preparing to start her 3rd year at Aberystwyth University in September. At the time of writing this article, due to summer magazine deadlines, I will not yet have formally moved into Eckington or had my service of Institution. However, whilst recognising it will be hard to say goodbye to many friends made whilst we have lived and worshipped in Redditch, I am greatly looking forward to getting to know you all in the future, and serving in my ministerial role in the beautiful setting of Bredon Hill. You may wish to know a little bit about who I am, and what I have been doing for the last 50 years or so, and so, a brief life history. I was born in Reading, moved to near Cardiff in South Wales when I was 4 and then to the small rural town of Llandrindod Wells in Mid Wales at the age of 11. My father was an agricultural adviser with the Ministry of Agriculture, so I am no stranger to the countryside or rural living, and this may have influenced my decision to take a science degree in Geography, specialising in soil science. However, this was not to be my future, and after graduating, I took a role as a Financial Graduate Trainee with the Welsh National Health Service before taking a job as a Personnel Officer at the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch. This is what brought me to the Midlands, and it was not long before I went to work for Stratford on Avon District Council in Human Resources, where I then spent 23 years, ultimately in senior leadership roles. It was at this time that I was called into the ministry, and I always saw myself as being an ordained minister working in secular employment. Therefore, after being accepted for theological college I went to work for Birmingham City Council in Human Resources, before being asked to set up an H.R. function in a Wholly Owned company of Birmingham City Council. It was during this time that I was ordained, and whilst in my curacy in a Team of Churches in Redditch, I felt God calling me into full time Ministry, which brings me to the point of joining you here now within the Bredon Group. In terms of the person, beyond my roles of priest, wife, mother and grandmother, there are probably some things you should know about me:- ♦ I love singing, and I am the longest serving female member of a chamber choir based across called the Oakville Singers, having sung with them for over 30 years. We have sung services in most of the cathedrals in this country and have performed in Paris, Germany, Belgium and Prague. We have also made a CD selling over 1000 copies; ♦ I spent 6 weeks working in British Columbia in Canada in the late 90’s as part of a Group Study Exchange sponsored by Rotary International. If I had not been on the point of getting engaged, I would probably have moved to live in Canada permanently, having been offered a job in Vancouver City Council; ♦ Bob and I have a caravan which we frequently use for holidays. Our favourite place to visit is North Cornwall, but being an ex-student of Geography, I also love the Dorset coast, famous for its fossils. ♦ I love reading fictional historic novels, watching films (particularly musicals), swimming, walk- ing in the countryside and I was also a keen tennis player. However, due to hip surgery which resulted in nerve damage to my left leg, I am now prone to occasionally falling down!! So, if this happens when I am with you, please don’t think that I have had one glass of wine too many!! ♦ I have met various members of the Royal Family, including the Queen, Prince Charles (twice) and Princess Diana. This later occasion was just before they announced they were expecting their first child, Prince William; My decision to become a full-time stipendiary minister has been a long time coming, but I am a firm believer in God’s perfect timing for all things in life. Therefore, I hope my experiences of leading and managing large numbers of people (professionally and pastorally), finances, projects and buildings in different contexts, my love of working in groups and activities with families and children, as well as my desire to help people come to know the love of Jesus for themselves, will all help support my work with you in our Benefice. Bob, Megan and I are looking forward to getting to know you in the coming months, welcoming you to the Vicarage in Eckington and I pray that God will richly bless our time together in the years ahead. With love and blessings, Reverend Allison Davies

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Service Schedule for August: Below are the clergy-led Sunday services in the new schedule being held around the Bredon Hill Group in August. Services at churches in the Beckford Group are in bold. A full list of services in the Beckford Group is on the inside cover.

AUGUST 9:00am 10:30am 6:00pm

Besford - R Tett - D Lewis 4th August 7th Sunday Alstone - D Lewis Bredon - Doug Chaplin after Trinity Beckford Group United Service

11th August - D Lewis Eckington - R Tett 8th Sunday

after Trinity Bredon’s Norton - R Tett Overbury - D Lewis

18th August

9th Sunday Eckington - Allison Davies Bredon - R Tett Teddington - after D Lewis Trinity Beckford - R Tett - D Lewis

Elmley Castle - D Lewis Defford - Allison Davies 25th August

10th Sunday Bredon’s Norton - R Tett Little Washbourne after D Lewis Trinity Beckford Group United Service

Tewkesbury Food Bank

Tewkesbury Foodbank is busy getting ready for the school summer holidays when it helps low income families with much needed parcels of food, in addition to its normal work. These are needed for many reasons but mainly because school holidays mean no school meals and parents may have to stop work and lose income to be at home with their children. So the Foodbank would be very happy to receive any of the following foodstuffs:

Tinned meat and tinned fish Tins of hot dogs Tinned vegetables Tinned fruit Instant mashed potatoes Coffee Fruit squash Long life fruit juice Custard

Please leave donations in the baskets at either Alstone or Teddington churches and we will deliver them to the Foodbank. Thank you very much.

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Sunday August 25th at 10:30am - United Parish Worship at Little Washbourne

We hope you will join us for worship in this ancient and historic chapel. If it’s a dull day then do bring a torch as there is no electricity and the old box pews in particular can make reading difficult. The collection at the service will be in aid of the parish CATCH project in Mzamomhle and we are sure you will be generous in support of this vital work. Do take great care on leaving Little Washbourne after the service as the dangerous junction with the Stow road has been the scene of several incidents/accidents involving fast main road traffic. We shall be cleaning Little Washbourne church on the morning of Tuesday 21st August from 10am and hope some of you will be able to join us and, as George Herbert put it in Hymn 240 of A&M, “make drudgery divine, who sweeps a room, as for thy laws, makes that and the action fine”. Just in case there are any problems with this date or you have any other queries please get in touch with Anne Kyle on 01242 620351. The Chapelries were visited recently by the Wichenford Heritage Group on a tour of Worcestershire churches. They were particularly interested in Little Washbourne as the hamlet (formerly Knight’s Washbourne) gave its name to the Washbourne family, a branch of which moved to Wichenford and prospered there. The 17th century poet Thomas Washbourne was born in Wichenford and was ejected from his parish of during the Commonwealth but ended his life as Prebendary of .

End of an era - Part 2

You will no doubt have read in last month’s magazine of my decision to retire from the position of Reader or Lay Minister as we are now known. Chris (Godfrey) suggested that a few words from me would also be appropriate, and I can confirm that I will be retiring effective from July 31st. As you can imagine, this has not been an easy decision, particularly when the lack of full time ministerial availability within our own group of churches is taken into consideration. However, after much thoughtful prayer and soul searching it became evident that this was the sensible thing to do, given my increasing lack of mobility and pending replacement hip surgery with its consequent period of recovery. Those that attended the last service I conducted at Beckford some weeks ago will know that I felt it necessary to sit for much of the time then. Our churches are also blessed with steps, both up and down, and these too prove to be a negotiating challenge for me. But enough of the excuses, praise God the brain is still active and I can still sing. I have been greatly blessed over the last ten years, both in the preparation for and delivery of the services which I have been privileged to take, and I thank you all for your encouragement and support during that time. I trust and pray that you have also been encouraged in your own Christian walk by some of the words I have been prompted by the Holy Spirit to deliver. There can be no greater joy for the Christian than sharing with others the message of God's love in sending His Son Jesus to die for us, to save us from our sin, and make us fit to be called His child. The Bible tells us that the harvest is great, but the workers are few and this has never been more true than it is today. If any of you feel that God is calling you to serve him in Lay Ministry, please prayerfully consider that call and follow it up. If I can help in any way, just ask. Thank you for your prayers. May you continue to know God's love, walk in his way and rejoice in His presence with you day by day. Roger Palmer

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Revd Julian Edward Dawes

We have heard the sad news that the Revd Julian Dawes died on 4th May this year aged 91.

He was vicar of Overbury with Teddington, Alstone and Washbourne from 1965 until 1970 when he left to become vicar of Cropthorne with Charlton.

NATIONAL CHURCHES TRUST KEEPING CHURCHES, CHAPELS AND MEETING HOUSES ALIVE The National Churches Trust (founded in 1953 as the Historic Churches Preservation Trust) is the national, independent, non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting and supporting church buildings of historic, architectural, and community value across the . St Faith’s, Overbury is delighted to be one of the recipients of a very generous grant from The National Churches Trust (NCT) towards its project to install a WC and refreshment area in the church. The application process is rightly pretty rigorous and even when successful there are a number of hoops to jump through before the grant can be claimed. But with grants ranging from £10,000 to £50,000 it is well worth making the effort. A registered charity supported by voluntary contributions, and absolutely no financial support from government, the NCT has allocated grants and loans worth over £85million in today’s prices to help repair and modernise Christian places of worship. Twelve thousand grants and loans have ensured the good repair of churches, chapels, and meeting houses of many Christian denominations, and funded modern facilities. The National Churches Trust is committed to helping more churches remain in good repair for worship, for the benefit of local people, and visitors interested in exploring their fascinating art, architecture, and history. The annual Ride & Stride event that takes place each September, whereby people are sponsored to visit churches by bicycle, on foot or even by car, is an important means of raising money for this very valuable source of support for churches with expensive repairs or modernising projects. In addition, individuals are warmly invited to become a Friend of the Trust at a cost of £30 per annum. Benefits include invitations to special events including church tours, a subscription to a bi-annual Newsletter and a range of offers including discounted home insurance. New Friends also receive a free copy of English Parish Churches and Chapels: Art, Architecture and People by Dr Matthew Byrne, a beautiful and inspiring book of photographic portraits. For more details, visit www.nationalchurchestrust.org or telephone 020 7222 0605.

A biography of Beckford best-selling author Ursula Moray Williams is being sold off at reduced price to benefit Oxfam. In 2011, Colin Davison wrote Through the Magic Door, a 244-page illustrated biography of Williams, prolific author of the children's classics Gobbolino, The Little Wooden Horse and many others, who lived for many years at Beckford and . It tells of an exceptional life and how many of her stories were drawn from an extraordinary childhood with her identical twin sister at an isolated, tumble-down mansion in the woods. Ursula was also a talented artist and the book includes many illustrations, a large number of them her own. The biography had endorsements from fan Nick Park, creator of Wallace & Gromit, friend Anne Wood, creator of Teletubbies, and Ursula's illustrator Shirley Hughes. Priced at £18.99, it sold nearly 800 copies, but its university publisher has been taken over, and the stock remaindered. Rather than having these pulped, Colin Davison, formerly of Ashton-under-Hill, is selling signed, new, hardback copies at £10 each, of which £3 - half the nett proceeds - will go to Oxfam. Colin can be contacted at [email protected] or on 01242 603317 if you would like to purchase a copy. Page 6

Recently, I have heard about a few local community events that people have been unaware about but which could have been advertised in the magazine. Please don’t forget to contact me with information if you are organising a local event. My contact details are on the Directory page at the back of the magazine. Many thanks, Chris Godfrey

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION, BECKFORD & ASHTON UNDER HILL BRANCH An evening Garden Party was held on 26th June at Whitcombe in Overbury for Branch members and poppy sellers. After 2018’s glorious summer, the weather this year was a little less kind and, although it was dry, it was not very warm! However, the event was enjoyed by those who attended and Libby Hopkins was presented by the Branch President, John Gill, with a (very!) Long Service Award to acknowledge 35 years of poppy selling!

Visit to the National Memorial Arboretum The Branch is organising a visit to the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire on Wednesday, 16th October. This is open to non-members. The price will depend on the numbers attending but will be kept to a minimum and should not exceed £23.50 per head to include transport, a train ride round the arboretum (with commentary) plus coffee and biscuits on arrival. If you would like to come (or would like to learn more about the day), please contact Faith Hallett on 01386 725206 or [email protected].

THE SCARLET PIMPERNEL Manor, Friday 9th August Gates open 6:00 pm for picnics, performance 7:00 pm A small troupe of actors adopt a variety of disguises, accents and probably some beards, as Baroness Orczy’s classic adventure story gets the Jenny Wren treatment. Vive la Révolution! Liberté! Égalité! Fraternité! And knitting! In the open-air – please bring a blanket or chair.

Tickets: www.everymantheatre.org.uk – tel. 01242 572573

CAN YOU HELP??

Could you help with managing the magazine advertising pages? It is not too onerous a job! It involves responding to advertising queries throughout the year, but in the main it is a once a year task contacting existing advertisers for renewals, sending out invoices and liaising with any new advertisers. If you think you might like to give it a go, please contact either myself or Be Collins (who currently carries out this work). Our contact details are on the Directory page inside the back cover. Many thanks Chris Godfrey, Editor

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News From Beckford From the Beckford Registers

18th June 2019 Interment of Ashes: William Thomas BARNETT (died 27th January 2019)

Beckford Services for August In view of the United Service to be held at Alstone on 4th August, the usual BCP Communion service normally held on the first Sunday of the month in Beckford church will not take place this month. On the second Sunday - 11th August - we shall have an evening service at 6pm and this will be lay-led. As a change from the recent evening services which have followed the BCP Evensong format, this month we will have Evening Worship according to a pattern devised by the Wild Goose Resource Group of the Iona Community. This will be a simple service in modern language, with hymns, and will be followed by refreshments in the usual way. Our second service of the month will be at 9am on Sunday 18th August when Revd Rick Tett will lead us in worship for the 9am Common Worship Holy Communion. The 1st September will see the return of a celebration of BCP Holy Communion at 9am, through the kindness of Revd Leonard Burn.

Beckford Coffee Morning Our popular monthly Coffee Morning will again take place on Friday 30th August in the chancel of Beckford church from 10.30am to 12 noon as usual. If you’re normally at work but find yourself at home on holiday in that Bank Holiday week, do come along and join us and see what you’ve been missing! A selection of delicious home-made cakes with coffee or tea and, perhaps best of all, the pleasure of companionship with folk from this and surrounding villages, plus occasional visitors lured by the signboard outside. All for a basic £2.50.

Beckford Community Village Hall Ltd We have now sent in an insurance claim for some £1,200 against the damage due to vandalism in the committee room, and await acceptance. The damaged red chairs will be replaced, the armchair refurbished and the room redecorated. The handover of the former Social Club premises to BCVH Ltd duly took place on July 1st, and we are awaiting the results of a professional survey. Members of the BCVH committee did a 'walkround' to familiarise themselves with the premises, and we are now actively seeking potential new occupants. To progress our refurbishment programme, we have decided to break down the work needed into financially manageable chunks and apply each calendar year to Awards For All for £10,000. We have registered with Awards For All, and are awaiting quotes from builders before making our first application. Meanwhile, fund-raising on a smaller scale continues: the very successful Fun Dog Show raised £110 for hall funds, a bike ride or similar event will be organised on a Sunday afternoon in September, there will be a Barn Dance on 28th September 28th and a South American Supper on October 5th. Martin Spice, the Chairman of the Parish Council, came to the committee meeting on June 24th and described the work of the Steering Group on the Neighbourhood Plan. Development and acceptance of such a plan would provide vital protection to the parish against unwanted building development (he anticipated that 25 new houses would be built in the parish in the next few years). However, much detailed work remained to be done. About 12 people would be needed to cover this while, at present, the Steering Group has only four members. He urged committee members to bring this to the attention of their members, and to contribute to the work. Graham Galer, Secretary BCVH Ltd Page 8

Beckford Village Hall Committee are holding a fund raising Barn Dance on Saturday 28th September, 7:30pm till exhaustion, in Beckford Village Hall.

So, put on your dancing shoes and come and support us for a fun evening. We have a band and caller, food is included in the ticket price and there will be a bar. Tickets, £12.00 adult, under 16’s £6.00, will be available in the village shop or from Anne Worrall (01386 881508)

BECKFORD W.I. - July Report

Our Margaret Darby welcomed 23 members to the Members’ Summer Garden Party in her garden in Dumbleton on Monday 8th July. Since the last meeting there had been a Federation of WIs Village Fete and Picnic in the grounds of The Earl and Countess Bathurst’s home, Cirencester Park. There were traditional displays and stalls. Beckford WI had dressed up as pirates with a large treasure map which was marked out with squares so that people could pick one and see if it held any treasure. As 2019 is the Centenary year for GFWI, preparations are in hand for an exhibition in Gloucester Cathedral in October. Each WI will have a table and can display items which show what the WI means to its members. In addition members will be able to help by being guides and supporting the visitors who come to see the exhibition. The report from the Group delegate to the AGM told us that the two resolutions had been passed. These were concerned with improving rural bus services and promoting the uptake of cervical smear tests. The monthly walk had been planned for a visit to Tewkesbury Nature Reserve but since this was waterlogged owing to an excess of rain, we had walked up Bredon Hill and come back via Beckford Nature Reserve, which was a lot drier! Hopefully the next walk will take in Tewkesbury Nature Reserve as the weather has been kinder. Plans are being made for excursions to the Dundry Butterfly Nursery at Bamfurlong and a day trip to see the SS Great Britain in Bristol. Both of these visits are linked to talks we have had over the past year. Members were then reminded of the arrangements to visit Beckford Silk followed by tea at the cafe. This is to celebrate the life of one of our members who died this year. We also have plans to support the Beckford Mother and Toddlers group who are having a table top sale in October and members were asked to remember this when making jams and preserves, as we plan to have a table for homemade goodies including craft items and cakes. The Margaret Lodge competition for the best seasonal flower display was won by one of our members from who produced a lovely display based on lavender. Birthday posies were given out and then the main business being concluded we enjoyed supper with the delicious dishes that the members had brought to share There is no meeting in August. The next one is on Monday September 9th when the speaker will be Sue Brown who will talk about her life as the first UK military operational female pilot. All are most welcome. Clare Henderson, Meeting Secretary

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News from Ashton under Hill

St Barbara’s Church - Services in August Sunday 4th August: Village Worship at 10:30 am with the church team followed by our church picnic (see below) Sunday 11th August: CW Holy Communion at 6:00pm with David Lewis Sunday 25th August: United service at Little Washbourne at 10:30am

News from St Barbara’s We are very sorry to report the death of Margaret Nicklin whose funeral was held in St Barbara’s on 8th July. She was a faithful member of the congregation, having in the past been churchwarden, among the many roles she played in the life of the church and the village. Margaret had varied interests which she kept going right up to her last illness - WI, painting, gardening, and had many friends. She achieved her 90th birthday in May and several of us commented that we’d like to live as actively as she did. Margaret was always very proud of her family and we think of David, Mandy and the next generation at this sad time. We are going to repeat the St Barbara’s summer picnic on Sunday 4th August from midday. Bruce and Philippa have kindly offered their garden again and all are welcome. There will be a collection for Mzamhomle, the Catch project, which works with disadvantaged children in the townships of South Africa. Pizza, drink and ice-cream will be provided but please bring something extra to share if you like.

ASHTON UNDER HILL W.I. - July Report President Doreen Parsons welcomed 28 members to our July meeting. We paused to remember Margaret Nicklin who had been a good friend to many, and past secretary of the WI. Amongst her many other talents, Margaret had been an excellent artist and needlewoman, and kept very active up to her last few weeks. We shall miss her very much. The report from Open Gardens was that a super £1,085 had been raised from WI teas and cakes, very close to last year’s total which was a bumper year. Judith has been asked to pass on the committee’s thanks to all involved. Doreen made the draw for Denman College bursaries and Joan Richmond was the winner of our own bursary. Judith Hunter’s name goes forward to the county draw. Doreen encouraged members to look at sign up sheets and to come forward with suggestions for new visits. We had hoped to go on a river cruise at Upton but now, after a change of plan, we are going to have our cream tea in . After the business meeting we welcomed our speaker Catherine Clark whose topic was “My Life in Hats”. A whole table display of colourful hats, discs and fascinators kept us fully entertained. Catherine runs a “Hat Hire” business, specialising in hats for occasions such as Ascot, weddings, and ‘posh’ functions like palace garden parties. Catherine had trained as a junior at Harrod’s in her early career and after pursuing other paths went back to her original love of fashion. She modelled all the hats for us which was great fun as she is a lady of style herself. Apparently she owns 460 hats alone and has many full wardrobes. She also offers accessories in the form of clutch bags in matching colours. It was fascinating to see some of Catherine’s ‘historical hats’ from the 1950s, 60s and 70s and to see how fabrics and styles have changed. All current hats have a brim of one sort whereas older fashions were designed to sit back on the head. There was a stunning silvery bronze hat which she had worn to her own daughter’s wedding – she said she had to live up to expectations as the hat lady! There were lots of oohs and aahs as we started to fancy ourselves transformed by a glamorous outfit and we were delighted to be able to try some hats on at the end. The next meeting is the Garden Meeting, now confirmed at the Village Hall at 2.30pm on 6th August. There will be wine tasting with David Barrie then tea to follow. Members to bring a small plate of savoury finger food to share. Judith Hunter

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News From Teddington and Alstone - The Chapelries August Services August 4th: 9:00am, Alstone - United Parish Worship with David August 18th: 6:00pm, Teddington Holy Communion with David August 25th: 10:30am - United Parish Worship at Little Washbourne See page 5 for more details From the Registers: Teddington June 27th: Marriage of Daniel James Langley & Jessica Claire Beckman Alstone July 14th: Baptism of Douglas Richard Philip Herrick, son of Craig Herrick and Nicola Broadbridge.

Coffee Morning held at Bengrove Farm on Saturday 20th July

Our Summer Coffee Morning held at Bengrove Farm was once again a great success. At the last minute the weather relented and a good crowd enjoyed coffee and cakes and flutters on the raffle, tombola, and guessing the weight of three remarkably docile lambs. Much bric-a-brac, and local produce was sold and over £550 was raised for our churches. Thanks are due to Alec and Libby for once again providing the splendid venue and to all those who attended, helped run the event and supplied prizes and produce.

Teddington and Alstone Village Hall Committee would like to invite you to their summer event Ashes Barbecue and Quiz - Saturday the 10th August 6:30pm for a 7:00pm start.

A fun evening of varied quizzes and barbecued food, salads and puds. Bar available Quiz teams sorted on the night Tickets £10.00 per person

All profits to Village Hall funds. We are currently fund raising to update the toilets and make them more accessible to all. Please let us know of any special dietary requirements on booking. Raffle prizes welcomed. Booking essential. Please contact Brian on 01242 620898 or via email [email protected]

Date for your diary: Traditional Sports Day Fun & Picnic on Alstone Playing Field Sunday 1st September, 2:30pm

Children, families & friends all welcome. Bring along a picnic, chairs/blanket and enjoy a fun Sunday afternoon.

More details to follow on Alstone and Teddington village notice boards and on the Teddington & Alstone Village Hall Facebook Group page.

TEDDINGTON VILLAGE HALL 50+ CLUB Please note that there is no meeting of the 50+ club during August. See you again on Friday 20th September Page 11

NEWS FROM OVERBURY

NEWS FROM ST FAITH’S The main event at St Faith’s recently was a memorable Service of Thanksgiving for Dagny Holland-Martin on 23rd June. The church was filled with the English summer flowers that Dagny loved and the 200 members of the congregation were able to enjoy both their beauty and their scent. In addition, bunches were available to take home afterwards which meant that many people had tangible memories of the occasion. The service (which included hymns selected by Dagny) was led by Reverend Margie Schutte, with readings by members of the family and a tribute given by Faith Hallett. The organ was played by Anthony Greenwood and Thomas Elwes from Dean Close School sang “Make Me a Channel of Your Peace”. Afterwards a very happy and informal reception took place in the garden at Berkeley House. Dagny played such a key role in the life of Overbury and she is sorely missed, but the service gave us all an opportunity to celebrate her long and remarkable life.

We are now looking ahead with great anticipation to welcoming our new vicar, Reverend Allison Davies who was formally installed at Eckington Church on 24th July. Allison is away for some of August and the first service she will be taking at Overbury is on 8th September.

Please note that there will NOT be the usual family service on the first Sunday, 4th August, when there is United Parish Worship in Alstone at 9:00am.

OVERBURY STREET MARKET

Thankfully, we were blessed with a cooler, more comfortable morning this year which attracted a record number of visitors to our 41st Street Market. Trading was brisk and busy with early indications that there could be a small increase on last year’s record income – final details to follow next month. Without the help of all those involved in setting up and running the stalls, also with all the clearing away afterwards, this event would not happen, so “thank you” to everyone who gave up their time to support this year’s event. Andrew John - Chairman

St Faiths Church, Overbury 200 Club Results of the June 2019 draw

1st Prize No. 46 £186.25 Rod Gillett 2nd Prize No. 43 £111.75 Phillipa Walker 3rd Prize No. 52 £ 74.50 Anthony Hallett 4th Prize No. 179 £ 55.87 Claire Swindlehurst 5th Prize No. 68 £ 37.25 Anne Wood 6th Prize No. 96 £ 37.25 Richard Southby 7th Prize No. 176 £ 18.62 Sue Sedgewick 8th Prize No. 184 £ 18.62 Ben John 9th Prize No. 100 £ 18.62 Wendy Harrison

Congratulations to all the winners above and Good Luck to everyone for the next draw which is in December. Thankyou all for your continued support Michael Randles 01386 725564 Pat Chambers 01386 750358

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2019 Season

Our recent annual Six-a-Side Competition was won by St Phillips North, who defeated Winchcombe in the final. Two really competitive nights of good cricket.

As we move into the second half of the 2019 league season, the First XI are in the lower half of the Premier Division. The Second XI have had mixed fortunes this year but hope to remain in Division 6. The Youth teams have completed their league matches and all have done exceptionally well. Congratulations are due to all the Youth coaches, to parents for their support and also, of course, to the many children who come along on Friday evenings. It is hoped that Youth training will continue into August and a final Awards day will take place on Sunday 11th August. On Wednesday 7th August Overbury are, for the second year, playing an International 20/20 match against an Afghanistan team from . We will be starting the match at 6.30pm and hope to see as many supporters as possible. On Sunday 18th August, Overbury are playing in the 20/20 Big Bash competition sponsored by the Crown Inn, Kemerton – please come and support us at Bredon! We still need Senior players to join us ! Training nights are held on Tuesdays (6.30pm – 8pm). Dave Devereux, OCC Chairman 07949 648372 / 01684 850329 - www.overbury.play-cricket.com

August Parish Walks These are led walks in our beautiful countryside. All are welcome, so do come and enjoy them with us. Sorry, no dogs. Walks start at 7 pm and we allow 2 hours to walk about 4 miles, talking to friends old and new. There is a small charge of 50p per walk which is shared between the Mzamomhle CATCH project and Beckford Nature Reserve.

5th August: Bev & Simon - Meet in Beckford, opposite the shop for a mystery walk!

12th August : Mike & Jenny - A short walk from Bredon’s Norton, starting at 6.30 pm, to build up an appetite for our end of season supper hosted by the ladies of Bredon’s Norton Church.

Religious Festivals in August Two important Hindu festivals occur during the summer.

Raksha Bandhan falls on the day of the full moon in the Hindu month of Sravana (July - August). The central feature is a traditional ceremony in which a sister ties a decorative coloured thread (rakhi) to her brother’s wrist as a symbol of love and affection, cementing their relationship and binding him to protect her. Sometimes the threads are tied by other family members, by friends or by priests. The day also includes religious rituals, eating traditional foodstuffs and the exchanging of gifts.

Janamashtami occurs in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada (August-September), and commemorates the birth of Krishna, the eighth incarnation of the deity Vishnu who killed the evil Kansa, King of Mathura. After a day of fasting, devotees flock to Krishna temples, specially decorated for the occasion, to pray and sing. At midnight the temple bells ring, announcing the moment at which Krishna is said to have been born and there is great rejoicing. The festival is chiefly celebrated in Northern India, especially Mathura.

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August 5th - Oyster Day

‘Greengrocers rise at dawn of sun August the fifth - come haste away To Billingsgate the thousands run Tis Oyster Day! Tis Oyster Day!’

William Hone, 1829

The 5th August is the first day of the oyster season, although those who believe that oysters should only be eaten when there is an ‘R’ in the month prefer to wait until 1st September. It was formerly thought that anyone who ate an oyster on August 5th would not lack money for the remainder of the year. In parts of London, children had their own way of making money around this time: they would collect the oyster shells discarded from fish shops and restaurants and build cone-shaped grottos with a lighted candle inside or on the top, begging for coins from passers-by as a reward for their efforts.

An English summer: three fine days and a thunderstorm.

Traditional saying

Page 14

Page 15

ADVERTISEMENTS: The Parish Magazine takes no responsibility for goods or services advertised.

TECHNOLOGY SUPPORT For when you most need help with your computer, mobile phone or TV

If you have a problem with your computer or other electronic device, let me help you to solve it. I offer a friendly and efficient service in any of the following areas:

 Computers: Including installing virus checkers, using Microsoft programmes, e-mailing, and using the internet.  Mobile phones: How to set-up and use your phone, including use of apps and upgrades.  Apple: How to use your iPad / iphone.  TVs: Set-up and use of your new Smart TV.  Tuition: How to use any of the above, plus Skype, internet shopping, Email or anything else you need help with.

For further details, without any commitment call, email or ring:

Jamie Worley – Tech Support: 07885 238811, 01386 882084 or [email protected]

Page 16

The Parish Magazine takes no responsibility for goods or services advertised. Page 1

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Page 2 The Parish Magazine takes no responsibility for goods or services advertised.

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The Parish Magazine takes no responsibility for goods or services advertised. Page 3

JO’S DOG SITTING "FIT FEET" Kaz & Annie’s, Would you like help Mobile Foot Care Ceramics and with your garden? Leave your Service. More... I am a local * Pottery Painting dog in my Be treated in the comfort gardener who * Decopatch * Parties home while of your own home. can help with Conditions include: * Take Home Kits you relax. mowing, edging,  Nail * Adult only evenings Trimming * Group Bookings and weeding. I JOANNE GAILEY  Hard Skin * Gift Vouchers can tidy boarders and prune DOG SITTER  Corns All ages welcome, pop shrubs and fruit trees. 8 Willow Close  Callus in or reserve a table to My rate is £15 per hour.  Fungal Nails Ashton under Hill paint and relax. I am happy to come and talk  Ingrowing Toenails through potential work.

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HOLIDAY HOMES TO LET The Old Post House & Barn MULBERRY COTTAGE, BECKFORD, Elmley Rd, Ashton under Hill, WR11 7SW TEWKESBURY GL20 7AF Sleeps 2, 1 double bedroom with en-suite. (nearly opposite The Star)

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Page 4 The Parish Magazine takes no responsibility for goods or services advertised. SPACE & TIME THERAPIES Craniosacral Therapy Therapeutic Massage Zero Balancing This subtle and powerful whole-body treatment can Kristy A. Teele, MTI, ZBUK, B.Sc help a wide range of problems including sciatica, www.spaceandtimetherapies.com back and neck problems, joint problems, headaches, on Facebook @ Space&Time migraines, emotional issues, stress and anxiety. It Tel: 07758 105578 / 01684 594033 facilitates deep release in restricted connective Therapeutic Massage: Works with the muscular tissue and nurtures the central nervous system system to address physical issues and ailments, to providing deep relaxation. alleviate stress or simply for relaxation. Crystal Singing Bowl Sound Healing also available. Zero Balancing: Works with the skeletal system to release held tension, promote alignment, create To book or enquire contact spaciousness in the body and restore the system to a Helen Beale 01386 725059 / 07811820717 restful state. [email protected] Feel free to ring with any questions or book at helenbealecraniosacral.com session at the Devereux Centre in Tewkesbury

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COUNSELLING HOME CARE Sometimes in life we need help working through Bluebird Care helps tough times. I work with individuals, couples and people stay in the homes young people to help you understand the issues they love. Our care is holding you back from enjoying your life to the full. tailored to individual needs Please call me for a free phone and can vary from one visit consultation: 07908106709 per day to live in care. Jane Ashton MA Psychology MA Counselling MBA If you are thinking about support at home or British Association for Counselling would even like to be part of our friendly team and Psychotherapy whether full or part time please give us a call Email: [email protected] on 01386 764830 to find out more.

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The Parish Magazine takes no responsibility for goods or services advertised. Page 5

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Page 6 The Parish Magazine takes no responsibility for goods or services advertised.

GLOUCESTERSHIRE’S FINE ART AUCTIONEERS

Equine and Canine Laundry Service Free auction valuations Horse Rugs Dog Bedding & Coats Regular fine art & antiques sales Stable Rug Wash from £7 Dog Coat Wash £5 Insurance & probate valuations Turnout Wash from £8 Dog Bed Wash from £5 Turnout Wash & 01452 344499 Dog Coat Wash & [email protected] Reproof from £14 Reproof £6 www.chorleys.com *** Free Local Collection *** PRINKNASH ABBEY PARK Call Natasha: 01684 773353 or 0776 6141994 GLOUCESTERSHIRE GL4 8EU

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PARISH DIRECTORY - AUGUST 2019

Revd David Lewis Associate Priest 01386 710394 Pastoral Area of Responsibility: Ashton under Hill [email protected] Rector of Elmley Castle with Netherton, Bricklehampton, Great & Little Comberton

Revd Allision Davies Associate Priest 01386 750203 Pastoral Area of Responsibility: Overbury [email protected] Vicar of Eckington with Defford and Besford

Revd Rick Tett Curate of Eckington & Defford cum Besford (Working across the Bredon Hill 01386 751152 Group) [email protected]

Treasurer Mike Sanger-Davies 01386 881910

Parish Enquiries Parish Secretary: Lynne Wilkinson [email protected] Tues 9 - 12, Bredon Parish Office 01684 772398 Thurs 9 - 12, Parish Office, Beckford Village Hall 01386 881349

Saint John The Baptist’s Church, Transport Co-ordinators Beckford Overbury Faith Hallett 01386 725206 Churchwarden David Carvill 01386 882002 Teddington Vacant Secretary Graham Galer 01386 882200 Alstone Betty Beckman 01242 620289 Treasurer Pam Grice 01386 882514 Ashton vacant Organist Mike Sanger Davies 01386 881910 Beckford vacant Flowers Doreen Byrd 01386 881360 Minibus Bell ringers Nick Hopkins 01386 710136 Andrew Barnett 01386 881145 Saint Faith’s Church, Overbury Paul Stephenson 01386 882052

Churchwarden Faith Hallett 01386 725206 (backup co-ordinator) [email protected]

Secretary Christine Clark 01386 725405 Disability Awareness Officer Treasurer Joss Muirie 07736 957310 Pat Chambers 01386 750358 Organist Anne Brown 01684 292231

Flowers Stef Lemarechal 01386 725325 Parish Safeguarding Officer Bell ringers Ros Long 01386 725111 Lynne Wilkinson - see Parish Secretary above for Saint Barbara’s Church, contact details Ashton-under-Hill Magazine Contacts for Alastair Humphrey 01386 881479 Editor St Barbara’s David Hunter 01386 882087 Chris Godfrey 01242 620006 Treasurer David Hunter 01386 882087 Email: [email protected] Organist Anthony Greenwood 01386 881278 Flowers Judith Hunter 01386 882087 Advertising Bell ringers Nick Hopkins 07790 831787 Be Collins 01242 620401 Choirmaster Alastair Humphrey 01386 881479 Email: [email protected] Regular Giving Alastair Humphrey 01386 881479

Saint Margaret’s Church, Alstone & Treasurer St. Nicholas’ Church, Teddington Laurence Alexander 01386 881814 The Old Police Station, Beckford, GL20 7AD Churchwardens Anne Kyle, 01242 620351 Kieran Whelan 01242 620763 News Team Secretary Nicholas Bentley 01242 620292 Beckford Jessie Alexander 01386 881814 Treasurer Mike Wignall 01242 620031 Chapelries Bill & Anne Kyle 01242 620351 Flowers: Overbury Ros Long 01386 725111 Teddington Caroline Marsh 01242 621139 Ashton Alastair Humphrey 01386 881479 Alstone Jane Rogers 01242 620592

See page 13 for details of the Parish Walks during August 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th Meditation Thursday, Committee Rm, Beckford Village Hall 6:00pm 2nd Ashton Lunch Club, Chapel Hall 12:30pm 4th United Parish Worship at Alstone 9:00am 6th Ashton W.I. Garden Meeting, Village Hall 2:30pm 7th Overbury Cricket Club International 20-20 against Afganistan 6:30pm 9th The Scarlet Pimpernel at Conderton Manor - see page 7 for details 10th Ashes Barbecue & Quiz, Teddington Village Hall - see page 11 for details 16th Deadline for magazine entries for September 21st Cleaning at Little Washbourne - see page 5 for details 23rd Parish Minibus Shopping Trip to Stratford upon Avon 25th Annual United Parish Worship at Little Washbourne 10:30am 30th Beckford Coffee Morning in the Church Chancel 10:30am- 12noon

Small Ads

Garden two seater swing hammock with cushions & canopy in good condition - £30.00 o.n.o.

Flymo Contour XT corded grass strimmer, good condition - £20.00 o.n.o.

Portion of proceeds donated to Beckford Nature Reserve

Contact John Lodge on 01386 881363, 2 Beckford Close

Parish Minibus Friday Shopping Trips in August

2nd and 16th to Bishops Cleeve 9th to Worcester 23rd to Stratford upon Avon

Picks up from all villages on request. Call Andrew Barnett on 01386 881145