Memorial Hall Ladies’ Fellowship: 2.30pm 2nd Tuesday in the month (usually) Toddler Group: 1st and 3rd Tuesdays (term time) 10.30am Martley Memorial Hall

Wednesdays Volume 20 No. 7 December 2010 Teme Valley Shufflers Line Dancing: 7pm Martley Memorial Hall Enq. Jeff & Advertise in The Villager : Aileen Thelma 01886 821772 Parker. 01886 888456 Martley Folk Club: 1st Wednesday in Editor: Michelle Higgins (01886888344) the month at The Talbot, and Editorial Team: Martley Alan Boon (01886 3rd Wednesday at The Admiral Rodney 888527), Kate King (01886 888439) Martley WI: 2nd Wednesday in the Wichenford Janet Andrews (01886 888303), month 7.30pm Heaton House Sheila Richards (01886 888378) Distribution : Martley George & June Lawrence Thursdays (01886 821064) Wichenford Karen Furber Wichenford Wine Club: 3rd Thursday in (01886 888449) the month Contact The Villager: Leave articles at Martley Post Office, call Janet or Sheila Martley & District Horticultural (Wichenford) or email the Editor at Society: last Thursday in the month [email protected] 7.30pm Martley Memorial Hall Opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of The Villager. The Villager See Church Words p. 27 for details of services cannot be held responsible for any goods or services advertised in the magazine. See articles for details of special events AND changes of time/date/venue of regular events

Regular events in Martley and See the Diary page on www.martley.org.uk for Wichenford: a complete listing of all forthcoming events (that the Diary page editor knows about) Sundays See page 28 for contact details of organisations 2nd Sunday in the month: Teme Valley Farmers Market for local Articles to go in The Villager must be produce 11am The Talbot, Knightwick submitted by the 1st of the Martley Ramblers meet Church car park previous month

3rd Sunday in the month: Path-or-Nones meet 9.30am Martley Memorial Hall car park to help maintain the local footpaths

Mondays Rhythm Time: 9.30-11.30am Martley Memorial Hall Enq . Rachel 01886 812565 Records of the Parish Council meetings in Martley Parish Council: 1st Monday in the two parishes are not intended to be full the month 8pm Memorial Hall and complete minutes. Minutes of meetings Tuesdays can be seen by contacting the respective Short Mat Bowling: 2.00pm Martley Clerks to the Councils.

December 2010 * The Villager 9 OOOUTOUT AND ABOUT IN MARTMARTLEYLEY Visit our website—www.martley.org.uk

anyone has any ideas please let us know. Perhaps even local companies needing extra space for a meeting or Martley Amateur Dramatics presentation would be welcome? So if you are thinking of holding a function Martley Amateur Dramatics would be it for fun, family or formal, please like to wish all readers a very Happy remember we have lots of room and Christmas and hope that you will facilities available in the VH so save round off the festivities with a visit to the wear and tear of your own home as our pantomime “Dick Whittington and well. Give us a call and I'm sure we the Doctor” which will be performed can accommodate most events. in Martley Village Hall 7 and 8 The VH Christmas January, with a matinee on the 8 th . We Fayre will be held are sure that in the hall on you won’t be Sunday 5 disappointed so December starting come along and at 1.30pm so cheer and boo! please come along Tickets and buy some of available as those early Christmas presents. usual from the The management committee would village shops like to thank everyone for their and The continued support of the village hall Admiral and wish you all a safe and warm Rodney. Christmas and a prosperous New Village Hall News Year. All's quiet at the VH with the Martley 100 Club committee trying to get its accounts October winner is Mrs Sally Swift and maintenance issues in order. We (number 54) and wins another £40. are trying to encourage more use of Sally Swift also won back in March - the hall during the day time, so if it does seem bizarre, as many of you

10 The Villager * December 2010 who win do win again once your or dispelled many family legends. We number has been drawn. I am are very passionate about family organising the 2011 Martley 100 Club history and have helped many friends so please do remember to return your to get started with their own trees. renewal forms to me or download the There is much information, help and application form from the Martley.org. advice on the internet and in local uk website. record office archives, but finding the Annette Smith time to do your own research is probably the one thing that many busy Thrift Shop people don't have much of, so we have Pensax Thrift Shop will be closing for started to offer a service to would-be the winter break on Wednesday 8 researchers. Our rates are reasonable December at 11 a.m. Please can you and as everyone's family story will make sure that you have collected unfold differently the amount of your unsold items and any monies research needed will differ from one before that date. It re-opens at 9 a.m. client to the next. There is so much to on Wednesday 2 March 2011. For any discover that once bitten by the bug of information regarding Thrift Shop family history, it's very hard to stop phone 01299 832388. wanting to find out more. You can contact me on 07517 222334 or 01905 What’s in Your Family Tree? 333335 or at crabtreetree@btinternet. We moved to Worcester in July 2008 com having farmed in Wales for 15 years, Karol Crabtree though we were both born in Oldham, and having married in Buxton, raised fours sons in the process. Our interesting life, and thinking of our life's' journey, made us wonder how and why and where our ancestors lived and brought up their own Christmas In The Teme Valley families. I am a landowner in Christmas is a magical time of year, Wichenford and have researched its especially for children. This festive history. I have also researched my time gives families an opportunity to paternal family tree and found I am spend time together and gives families related to the Hollidays who managed the chance to experience activities and the Admiral Rodney, , special events that they may not in the 1850's although my line lived in normally do. Come and join Teme Northampton. Valley Children’s Centre for some Both my husband and I have found out wonderful Christmas themed events many interesting and unexpected during the festive period for families things about our roots and confirmed to take part in.

December 2010 * The Villager 11 Thursday 16 December 2010 Congratulations Village Hall Committee Christmas Margaret and Ray Rushgrove are Prize Draw: The draw will be made at proud to announce the birth of their 11am. 1st prize is £60 Argos voucher. sixth grandchild. Thomas Harry was 2nd prize Christmas hamper. 3rd a born on 11.10.10. His meal for two at The Lion plus many parents are Justin and other prizes. Tickets are 50p each and Vanessa and he is a the proceeds go to the village hall baby brother to funds William. Monday 20 December 2010

Christmas Family Fun (Venue To Be Confirmed). Come and join us for a Christmas themed Family Fun. Wednesday 22 December 2010 Martley WI Christmas Walk At Countryside Centre. Come and join us Wednesday 8 December for our family walk around the 7.30pm Heaton House Countryside Centre following Santa’s The AGM is over and the committee trail. will be guiding us along the right lines Keep a look out for all of our usual in 2011. We are all looking forward to posters and flyers advertising our the new programme. This month is Christmas events, venues and times. ‘Party Time’, so we are making our Or you can contact the Children’s own entertainment with no speaker. Centre office on 01886 812982 or Who knows what the evening will [email protected] for bring forth? The competition is for a more information! Christmas Table Decoration or fancy On behalf of the Children’s Centre Serviette Ring (made by yourself of may we wish you and your family a course), and we shall be eating and very Merry Christmas and a Happy drinking party fare. Visitors are New Year and thank you for all of always welcome to join in. After our your help and support over the last successful celebration of Christmas in year. Martley church last year when members of the Elgar Group supported us, this year Whitbourne WI are arranging a celebration in their church at 3pm on Saturday 4 December. It will be interesting to see what form their celebration will take. Kate King

12 The Villager * December 2010 Pudford Tweets been one of a low crime community, Thank goodness the drier autumn so situated in beautiful Worcestershire. far has meant fewer puddles and So far, I’m glad to say that I was right! streams running down the lane. Having held a police surgery and done Fingers crossed the Pudford Glacier a few foot patrols, the vast majority of won’t appear later. locals I’ve met are very happy and Congratulations to Jane and Michael love living in Martley. I think some Froggatt on becoming grandparents people would be surprised just how with the safe arrival of Georgia. We large the Martley policing patch is. It hope they have many happy years of actually covers many villages enjoyment with her. including , , Having enjoyed the excellent Wichenford, Hallow, Dunley, presentation by Brian Draper of “Elgar Astley… and a few more! Of course I Country” we are hoping we shall not do not patrol this area on my own. see the ghost of Edward Elgar riding You have your own Local Policing his trusty bicycle, Mr Pheobus, in the Officer, Andy Hood, whom many of lane on a dark night. Some of the area you already know. names in the lane are most intriguing. PC Hood is a very experienced officer The steep slope just before the with 18 years of service, having also entrance to Pudford Lane appears to worked as a response officer and in be called Dedknoll. Can’t find the CID before local policing. As for origin of this name. Does it go back to myself, I worked in police custody Domesday when Pudda’s Ford Farm before being a CSO and wrote belonged to Drogo Fitzpoyntz? children’s books. I still write as a Kate King hobby and play the French horn, but talking is my greatest pass- time! So if you see either me or Andy out and about, come and speak to us. Tell us your policing issues and we can all work together to keep Martley a happy, safe community to live and work in. CSO Cooper 40061 [email protected] 0300 333 3000 ext.3581. A word from your local Thank you policing team I would like to take this opportunity to When I first discovered I was getting a thank all those people who signed my posting with the Martley local policing petition. However, as everyone will be team, I was absolutely delighted! My aware, the licence was granted to impressions of Martley had always

December 2010 * The Villager 13 Central Stores. I approached Mr On 28 October we had a record Gosling when the sign for the attendance! First, Mike Dunnett application went up and was told I had showed the winter colour shrubs in to take my parking signs down. I pots, Coprosma Fireburst and offered Mr Gosling a solution to his Coprosma Evening Glow, not too parking problem but, unfortunately, he hardy (from New Zealand), the colour declined. Therefore I am really sorry deepens with the cold but move to the but, to protect my business so that we greenhouse or cover with fleece and do not lose the Post Office, my keep in pots. They could grow to 6ft if parking restrictions will have to stay allowed. Dave Cropp gave a good enforced; that also includes Sundays. I tip—cut your holly for Christmas am really sorry if this inconveniences before the birds devour all the berries! people, but I suggest you take up Members then enjoyed a talk by Brian Central Garages parking problems Draper MBE who had brought slides with Mr Gosling, and not myself or to illustrate ‘Elgar’s Countryside’. my staff. Thank you. Brian is much in demand as a speaker Mary as he has great knowledge of Worcestershire and its surrounding counties, the rivers, wildlife, churches, cathedrals, towns and villages—and of course history. He had obviously taken a lot of trouble to study the life of Sir Edward Elgar—he was a Roman Catholic (and a Wolves Martley and District Horticultural supporter!), a keen fisherman and Society cyclist, who visited many places of Eight teams entered the Quiz held at interest ‘between the three cathedrals’ Martley Memorial Hall on 14 October. and also knew quite a few pubs! As a Chairman, Mike Dunnett, acted as boy he travelled about with his father Quizmaster and Dave Cropp scorer. tuning pianos, and would observe The evening was sponsored by Webbs birds, flowers and the beautiful views of Wychbold and any profits are of the Malvern Hills—no wonder he destined for the Air Ambulance. later wrote such superb music. He Martley’s team was Pat Finch, Mary enjoyed a glass of perry, and a smoke! Walker, Jane Cropp and Sue Curren, Brian’s slides fitted the talk perfectly, and after many quite tricky questions he earned high praise from his on various aspects of gardening, the audience and “it’s the way he puts it result was as follows 1 st , 2 nd over”, as our Chairman said. Chaddesly Corbett, 3 rd Martley. Tasty Members’ Christmas Dinner is on refreshments were served making it a Friday 3 December. sustaining and educational evening Tina Steele

14 The Villager * December 2010 Martley Ramblers I could conclude by saying ‘ stop it ’ No rambling this month as the weather but I won’t. Instead I will suggest that can be unfriendly and paths muddy whoever you are, why don’t you join and dangerous. So, it’s time to check us and help to take our 20 years into on your waterproofs and give you the future? boots a treatment with preservative. JSN Maybe that will be a way of ensuring good weather for 2011. The new The Burns Night Supper programme will be available in Following the success of last year's January; members will get it posted event at Martley Village Hall, which and copies are always available from was sold out, the Burns Supper the secretary. A word of caution: don’t Committee are proposing to stay at celebrate too well Martley for the 2011 event. The Burns during the festive Night Supper will be held on Friday28 season and get too January 2011. Full details of this event much out of condition will be available in the January issue before January! of The Villager but in the meantime if Kate King you would like to pre-book your tickets please contact: Sheila Richards Using Public Rights of Way Tel 01886 888378 or James Hyslop I have unfortunately received several Tel 01886 888359 reports about a particular dog owner, in the Callow Farm area, who pays no Martley Parish Council attention at all to the routes of rights Unapproved edited draft record of the of way, or to the interests of farmers meeting held on Monday 4 October and land users. When challenged, he 2010 at the Memorial Hall is shall we say, ‘difficult’. The Democratic Period/Public The Path-or-Nones have managed Question Time Martley’s footpaths for 20 years and A parishioner presented the Chairman in that time have gone to a great deal with a letter and requested that it be of trouble to respect the rights of all read under planning for Penny Patch, land-users—farmers and walkers Hillside. There were no other requests alike. It is true to say that a real, or comments made. constructive partnership has Minutes : developed, where the interests of both The minutes for the previous Parish groups are respected to the benefit of Council meeting were approved as a each. It is therefore very unhelpful true record of the meeting with two indeed, particularly from those who corrections to 65-10 and 66-10(a). The actually live in the parish, if some planning application for Fair View, selfishly ‘do their own thing’ in our Pudford Lane was withdrawn by the countryside. applicant and was not permitted. The

December 2010 * The Villager 15 accounts considered at the last investigate. Responded to CALC meeting were for August not stating that the need for the capping of September. the precept was understood. Outstanding actions from previous Confirmed that the Parish Council minutes: should not be directly consulted when Milestone plate—The Clerk is to a license to serve alcohol in their contact the milestone association and parish is applied for. Confirmed that Clifton Parish Council, who have MHDC Waste Manager has met with recently had some work carried out on the resident from Callow Farm who their milestone. Highways—The Clerk had e-mailed. is to submit a report to Highways (b) Lengthsman. The Clerk will ask about the dropped curbs, potholes, the lengthsman to concentrate on the drains, etc that have been reported. corner of Hillside by Sunrise Cottage The Clerk clarified outstanding jobs and clear the grip by the sawmills. with Councillors. The Clerk will (c) Training. Cllrs. Fearnehough and continue to investigate the Clarke will form the Clerk’s Finance authorisation of cycle races. The Clerk Committee as neither is a registered will contact the housing association signatory. The Clerk will have regarding work needed to the site delegated power in terms of urgent where the tree fell by Heaton House. decisions and planning will be The Clerk confirmed that an outdoor addressed by full council. The Clerk smart water pack will be ordered for will amend the standing orders and use on the play area and Councillor contract as appropriate, for Metcalfe will contact the police o authorisation. The Clerk will update discuss reinvigoration of the Local signatories on the Lloyds account. Youth Forum. District and County Councillor’s Progress Reports: reports: (a) The Clerk. Has received an e-mail District Cllr Williams reported that from Highways confirming that since while violent extremism is not the Hillside sign is functional and something most would associate with visible and is neither a safety issue nor the , it can offensive, the graffiti will be dealt happen anywhere. As a council, with on the next routine inspection, MHDC have a duty to ensure the which can be up to 12 months. Has safety of our local communities. written to Martley Recreation MHDC supports the PREVENT Association, SPORT Martley and strategy by being vigilant and working YIMMS requesting updates, future with partners to identify potential meetings, etc. Has established that concerns for violent extremism. “Big both MHDC and WCC are adamant Society” was the buzz term during the that the herbicide spraying is not recent elections, but what does it mean linked to them, and will continue to for the council? The aim of Big

16 The Villager * December 2010 Society is to build strong communities from 1 October 2010 - 30 September that take more responsibility for their 2011, businesses occupying single local area and ensure that needs are premises with rateable value of less met, such as helping people gain than £6,000 will not have to pay any skills, feel empowered, feel proud, and business rates and those with a have control over their health and rateable value of £6,001-£12,000 will welfare. We have been working receive discounted rates. This scheme towards this for some years: will support smaller businesses during emergency flood teams are manned by the continued financial downturn, with volunteers; and we support the the timing of the scheme set so that community litter-picks in parks in the the reduction impacts on two financial spring and summer. There is now years. District Cllr Williams asked more freedom to explore avenues for that the Clerk arrange for the ‘Big Society’ projects, such as Worcestershire Hub Christmas volunteers taking on the maintenance Opening Hours to be published in The for local parks and green spaces and Villager. (see p.20). community groups leading Planning : organisation and funding for annual New festivals and events. It will not be a 10/01172/HOU White Cottage, quick or easy transition to make, but if Kingswood – Erection of extensions we begin to look at new ways of doing and swimming pool. things and new ways to involve 10/01074/HOU White Cottage, residents and community groups in the Kingswood – Erection of replacement work we do, there is the real garage and store. possibility of developing ‘Big Society’ 10/01125/HOU Penny Patch, projects. Renewable Energy Hillside – Two storey extension to Generation project: The council has rear and side. secured a fully-funded student 10/00627/HOU 3 Masons View, placement from Keele University’s Laugherne Park – Conservatory to Project Green scheme for two months. rear, ensuite extension and erection of James Chapman will be looking at the shed within domestic curtilage. feasibility of the council generating Permitted renewable energy onsite. New 10/00893/FUL Land adj. Three Acres, government Feed-in Tarriffs and the Willow Road – Proposed stable block removal of the ban on selling energy and change of use from agricultural to to the National Grid make the option equestrian land. of onsite energy generation a much 10/01079/HOU Thornhill Villa, Horne more attractive proposition for local Lane – Proposed French doors to authorities. As portfolio holder for dining room and balcony, and Economic Development, Cllr. bedroom balcony. Williams was pleased to report that as Parish Local Plan:

December 2010 * The Villager 17 All Councillors agreed that producing a crime. Having a local plan at the present time would done this I took the not be cost effective. child into my sitting- Finance : room and prayed It was agreed to pay the final invoice with her that she of £66.95 from British Gas for the might be lead ( sic ) to see what a very Weighbridge electricity charges. wrong thing she had done and ask for Councillors agreed that a direct debit forgiveness.” with E-on for the electricity would not Alan Boon be financially viable. The Parish Council agreed to contribute £150 towards the cost of the strimmers recently purchased by the parish footpaths group. The Villager Correspondence : Included Worcester County Council would like to wish Waste Core Strategy (for discussion) Councillors reports and items for all its readers a future agenda: Happy Christmas. A Councillor had been approached by concerned residents regarding the number of overgrown trees in Martley. The Clerk is to thank Mr D Cropp for putting up the Freedom of Martley board in the village hall. Date of next meeting: Meetings are held on the first Monday of the month, Bank Holidays excepted. Martley’s Past Girl’s School Mon. 27 th March 1871: Teacher’s Note. This teacher was Miss Harriet Shaw, Martley Library Opening Times in her first year of teaching since Monday 2—7 pm leaving Training College in Derby. Wednesday 4—6 pm “Punished a child for taking a girl’s Thursday 10am -1 pm dinner out of her basket and giving it Friday 2 - 4 pm to a dog. I spoke to the whole school Saturday 10am -12 noon (Infants and girls. AB) and impressed 01886 888396 (opening hours only) on their minds the seriousness of such

18 The Villager * December 2010 Mobile Library Ockeridge Silver Oaks 9.45–10.05 Wichenford Malvern View 10.10–10.35 Church 10.45–11.05 Kings Green Farm 11.15–11.40 Rosses Green 11.45–12.05 Martley Hillside Horn Lane Bungalows 12.10–12.25 Martley Taylors of Martley 12.30–12.45 LUNCH Heaton House 1.20–1.50 Church 1.55–2.15 Clifton Village Hall 2.30–3.50

The Mobile Library will be visiting these stops on Wednesdays on the dates listed below in 2010: 1 December 22 December

The 2011 schedule is being prepared Any enquiries should be made to Stourport Library, Worcester Street, Stourport, Worcs DY13 8EH, tel: 01905 822722 [email protected] ’s Film Society There is no film in December as you will probably be busy with other things! Our next film is “Brideshead Revisited” and will be screened on Saturday 22 January 2011. See details of the Little Witley Film Society on the Leisure page of www.martley.org.uk or phone Jean Latham on 01886 888888122 or Bob Jose on 01886 888383 .

December 2010 * The Villager 19 A Concert of Christmas Music with Raffle

to be presented by the

Ferndale Singers

Saturday 11 Dec. 2010

at 7.30pm in

Martley Village Hall Worcestershire Hub Switchboard availablility Admission £5 (to include wine and light Christmas/New Year: refreshments) Friday 24th - 8am - 4pm Tickets: 01886 888246, 01886 821127 or Saturday 25th - Closed 01905 339067 Monday 27th - Closed Tuesday 28th - Closed Proceeds of raffle Wednesday 29th - 8am - 8pm to be donated to charity Thursday 30th - 8am - 8pm Friday 31st - 8am - 5pm Saturday 1st - Closed Monday 3rd - Closed Tuesday 4th - 8am - 8pm

Wed 22 Dec 8.00pm onwards: Carols at the Admiral Rodney

Thu 23 Dec 8.00pm onwards: Carols at the Masons Arms For details of carols in church, see p. 27

20 The Villager * December 2010 Teme Valley Christmas Fayre

At Priory WR15 8JQ (just off the A443)

Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 December 2010 11am-5pm Free entry and free parking Come and do your Christmas shopping in the gracious surroundings of this elegant country house stunningly decorated for the festive season Christmas stationery, gifts and decorations on sale Homemade preserves and seasonal delicacies Father Christmas will be on hand 1-4pm both days Prize Draw Christmas Fayre Delicious home-cooked refreshments Martley Memorial available, Hall Sunday 5 including light lunches and mulled wine December Join us for Advent Carols 4.30pm Sunday starting at 1.30pm Proceeds in aid of the five churches of please come along and Teme Valley North Parish buy some of those early Christmas presents .

December 2010 * The Villager 21 Over the Garden Wall in Wichenford WICHENFORD NEEDS YOUR NEWS

Janet Andrews 01886 888303 Sheila Richards 01886 888378

Elizabeth Evelyn (Susan) Church Flowers 5 December Advent, no flowers Britten 12 December Advent, no flowers We are so sorry to hear that Susan has 19 December Christmas decorations died and send our deepest sympathy to 24 December Christmas decorations her family. She was a much loved 25 December No service in member of our community and will be Wichenford very sadly missed. 26 December No service in Wichenford Harvest Supper Wichenford This was a very happy evening, the Ladies Fellowship hall was full and everyone enjoyed a The next meeting of the Ladies delicious supper. Out thanks are due to Fellowship is the Christmas meeting Rosemary and Mike Clark and all and is on Tuesday 14 December at their helpers and to Pam Webb, Katie 2pm. Kidd and Mark Andrews for organising the raffle and bar. The raffle raised £240 for church funds and the bar £180 for the Memorial Hall. Many thanks to Margaret Peters and her friends for entertaining us with their lovely singing. 100 Club Octobers winners are 1st number 101 M Baldwin and returned subscriptions to number 210 Bryan Jones and 96 Mike Clarke, drawn by Brandon

22 The Villager * December 2010 Corbett, congratulations to our The clerk wrote to the landowner winners. regarding the overgrown hedge on 19 Clair September. The last time she looked it had not been cut but she will look Kenswick and Wichenford again and report back to the next Parish Council meeting. Tree trimming: the land Unapproved abbreviated draft minutes owners have been approached and of the Ordinary Meeting of the Parish most have agreed to do the necessary Council held on Monday 11 October work required. The trees on Kings 2010 in the Memorial Hall Green have now been done and the Wichenford. ones on the village green are in hand. Democratic half hour/public It has been noted that trail riders have question time driven through Rosses Lane. This The chairman welcomed the two new must be reported to police as the councillors that were co-opted at the Permanent TRO is now in place. It last meeting. Mr Barrow represents seems to be happening at the same Kenswick and Mr Wells was time and day. welcomed back on to the council and Planning will represent Wichenford. Both Applications considered since the last councillors handed in the Declaration meeting of Acceptance of Office forms. 10/01104/HOU. Boxley Farm Cottage, District and County Councillors Wichenford. Report The parish council have already District Cllr Williams read her report considered this proposal and feel that to councillors. County Cllr Davies the latest application is an reported on the changes that are improvement. happening in the NHS. Public Rights 10/01142/HOU Cob House Farm, of Way spending is being reduced and Wichenford. they want to spend the money on Although the parish council has no ROW in villages that are most used. A objections to this application it was questionnaire will be sent out shortly pointed out that similar applications for parishes to complete asking for the have been refused in the past. most used. The parish council was Applications approved, refused, asked to contact the owner of the land withdrawn. rover that is parking on the verge on 10/00784-00785LBC Laughern Brook the B4204. House (Refused) Minutes Detached double garage including The minutes were signed as a true garden store and conversion of record. existing garage into games room. Progress Reports Applications to be considered. Overgrown hedge at Willow Road: None.

December 2010 * The Villager 23 Finance The parish council is to discuss with The Shelsleys Educational the church warden what the excess is Supplement on the church window as the parish Medieval Journeys council would like to give some Dr Katherine Lack will trace some towards the window repair. The medieval journeys across Europe. acceptance of the finances was An Icelandic bishop travels to resolved. Rome, the route of the first Highways (B4204 Meeting) Crusade, for example will be A meeting was organised by Mr Reed highlighted and brought to life by a at Kenswick Manor and three geographer who turned to members of the parish council. Since agricultural biology before the the meeting three more incidents have medieval era entranced her. occurred. The highways department Currently researching eighteenth have arranged to replace the single century travels in Herefordshire Dr chevron signs with larger yellow Katherine’s depth of academic backing boards and an additional background promises a series of incidental chevron will also be unusual sidelights on a fascinating provided at the western end. At the age. B4204 Kenswick Manor bend, new The talks will be held at Shelsley continuous white edgeline will be Village Hall (starting at 7.30pm) on ordered for the spring. 18 January, 1 and 15 February and Meeting (footpath at Woodhall) 1 March 2011. The cost, which A meeting was held on site with includes a mid-lecture drink, is £26 WCC; the landowner and the PC. The for the series or £8 per night. proposed diversion has been rejected. Proceeds to church funds. Councillors Training Contact: Johnny Crabbe at Councillor Rendall attended the tree Fetterlocks, warden forum at county hall. WR6 6QS, 01886 812 373, or Date and Venue of Next Meetings johnjean.crabbe @virgin .net Meetings were arranged for 17 Jan, 28 Feb and 11 April 2011 in the Memorial Hall Wichenford at 7.30pm.

24 The Villager * December 2010

In the Garden

In the garden in December You probably won't be spending a lot of time in the garden this month, but them support in strong winds, tall- let's hope there will be a few dry, clear growing Brussels sprouts can be tied to days when you can fit in some useful canes. Continue winter pruning of ap- 'maintenance'. Try to avoid walking on ples and pears, keeping an eye open wet soil: it is compacted by your for apple canker-a fungal disease weight and if it contains clay the air is which causes flaking patches of bark, squeezed out, so that when it eventu- usually in rings, and dieback. Infected ally dries out it will be rock hard. Also, wood should be cut out and burned. try to keep off your lawn if it is Grease bands can be fitted, or wet or frosted, but do clear the trees can be spayed with a leaves, or the grass beneath will winter wash, to destroy over- die off, leaving you with a mess wintering pests. in the Spring. Non-evergreen shrubs can be In the kitchen garden, providing pruned now. There are no the ground is not too wet, it is a leaves, so less mess to clear up good time to get on with digging afterwards, also it is much eas- and incorporating manure and ier to see what to cut out. A compost. Spring cabbage and useful guide is, remove dead, brassicas may need earthing up to give diseased and damaged wood first, fol- lowed by any crossed branches. Tall- growing rose bushes should be re- duced by half to stop wind-rock. You can prune them again, more carefully, in the Spring. Clear fallen leaves from rock garden plants as they will with- stand dry cold but not wet, which will cause them to rot. Some popular plants for winter containers are hellebores, Cyclamen Coum, snowdrops, varie- gated ivies, winter-flowering heathers and pansies. JC

December 2010 * The Villager 25

Church Words The Rectory 01886 888664

life and some of us have gone through hristmas greetings to you all. a difficult journey this year, perhaps C After a couple of months’ through illness or bereavement, and break from writing for The wonder what lies at the end of the Villager and having said farewell to road. The road may have been filled Rob and Bruce who are now starting with fears and anxieties yet we have their own new journeys, I am back continued the journey because we with a Christmas message. Over the have no other choice. We may have Christmas period I am felt alone, others may sure we all make many have felt very supported, journeys, for shopping, but the journey has con- school productions, re- tinued. This Christmas turning from university, may we find that as we family visits and much walk the journey of life more. Of these journeys, that is laid out before us some will be easy and that we do not go alone some will be difficult, but, like Mary and Jo- which reminds me of the seph, we realise that God journey of Mary and Jo- is with us. It is no acci- seph on that first Christ- dent that one of the mas, a journey fraught names of Jesus was to be with danger on the road Emmanuel which meant from Nazareth to Bethle- ‘God is with us’. This hem, fraught with diffi- was to comfort both culty for a woman who Mary and Joseph on that was about to give birth, but also one journey and throughout their lives filled with wonder and anticipation of knowing that whatever they faced he the impending birth of the child prom- would always be there. ised to Mary by the Holy Spirit. I am God be with you both today and in the sure that if we were to ask Mary year ahead, and may the peace of whilst in the stable holding Jesus in Christ be yours now and always. her arms she would have said that God Bless. journey was worth it. David Sherwin For each of us make many journeys in

26 The Villager * December 2010 Church services for December

Wed 1 Dec 10.15am Morning Prayer, St Peter, Martley Thu 2 Dec 9.00am Morning Prayer, St Laurence, Wichenford SUN 5 DEC 8.00am Holy Communion, Knightwick Chapel 10.30am Holy Communion, St Laurence, Wichenford 10.30am Morning Worship, St Mary Magdalene, Broadwas 4.00pm Christingle, St Peter, Martley 6.30pm Evensong, St Leonard, 6.30pm Communion Assistants Service, St Clements, Worcester Mon 6 Dec 9.00am Morning Prayer, St Laurence, Wichenford Tue 7 Dec 10.00am Holy Communion, St Mary Magdalene, Broadwas 7.30pm Chantry High School Christmas Carols at St Peter, Martley Wed 8 Dec 10.15am Holy Communion, Heaton House Thu 9 Dec 9.00am Morning Prayer, St Laurence, Wichenford SUN 12 DEC 8.00am Holy Communion, St Leonard, Cotheridge 10.30am Holy Communion, St Peter, Martley 10.30am Morning Prayer, St Mary Magdalene, Broadwas 4.00pm Christingle, St Laurence, Wichenford Tue 14 Dec 10.00am Morning Prayer, St Mary Magdalene, Broadwas 6.00pm Martley Primary. School Carol Service at St Peter, Martley Wed 15 Dec 10.15am Morning Prayer, St Peter, Martley Thu 16 Dec 9.00am Morning Prayer, St Laurence, Wichenford SUN 19 DEC 8.00am Holy Communion, St Peter , Martley 3.00pm Carol Service, Knightwick Chapel 4.00pm Carol Service, St Laurence, Wichenford 6.30pm Carol Service, St Mary Magdalane, Broadwas 6.30pm Carol Service, St Peter, Martley 8.30pm Christmas Quiz at The Admiral Rodney Mon 20 Dec 9.00am Morning Prayer, St Peter, Martley Tue 21 Dec 10.00 Holy Communion, St Mary Magdalene, Broadwas Wed 22 Dec 10.15am Holy Communion, Heaton House 8.00pm onwards Carols at the Admiral Rodney Thu 23 Dec 9.00am Morning Prayer, St Laurence, Wichenford 8.00pm onwards Carols at the Masons Arms Fri 24 Dec 4.00pm Crib Service, St Laurence, Wichenford Christmas Eve 5.00pm Crib Service, St Mary Magdalene, Broadwas 10.00pm Holy Communion, St Laurence, Wichenford 11.30pm Holy Communion, St Peter, Martley 11.30pm Holy Communion, St Mary Magdalene, Broadwas Sat 25 Dec 9.00am Holy Communion, St Leonard, Cotheridge Christmas Day 11.00am Family Worship, St Peter, Martley SUN 26 DEC 10.30am Benefice Holy Communion, St Peter, Martley

December 2010 * The Villager 27 Village Contacts Editor of The Villager Michelle Higgins [email protected] or 01886 888344 or leave articles at Martley Post Office Advertise in The Aileen Parker—01886 888456 Villager [email protected] Church Rector: Revd David Sherwin—01886 888664 or (Worcestershire West [email protected] Rural Team) Assistant Priest : Revd Jennifer Whittaker—01886 833897 Martley Parish Council Chair : Cllr. D Goodyear—01886 888423; Clerk : Sally Williams—01299 832949 Martley WI President : Helen CoombeyJones—01886 888294 Martley & District Pam Minchin—01886 888521 or Margaret Jackson— Horticultural Society 01886 888654 Royal British Legion Joyce Tyler—01886 821551 Martley Toddler Group Will—01886 888340 or Jane—01886 888852 Martley Ramblers Harry King—01886 888439 Martley Young Farmers Lou Wickens—01886-812754 or Caroline Bullock— 01905-333617 Path-or-Nones John Nicklin—01886 888318 [email protected] Resource Centre Alan Boon—01886 888527 Police “Surgery” CSO Matt Smith 7184—Martley Local Policing Team Police Station extn. 3581 Martley Website [email protected] Martley Web Mesh Richard Jackman—01886 821237 [email protected] John Layton—01886888460 [email protected] Tom Pearsall—01886 888256 [email protected] Martley Pre-School Kath/Lucy—01886 889127 www.martleypreschool.co.uk Martley Recreation Bookings —Pat Owen 01886 888406 Association ( playing fields) [email protected] Wichenford contacts for Janet Andrews—01886 888303 or Sheila Richards—01886 The Villager 888378 Kenswick & Wichenford Clerk—Shirley Sanders 01886 888302 Parish Council Wichenford Wine Club Chairman—Bill Hylan 01886 888431 Wichenford Local Heather Rendall—01886 888239 Heritage Group

To put organisation and its contact details on this list, or to change the details shown here, email [email protected] or leave a note for the editor at Martley Post Office.

28 The Villager * December 2010 The Villager needs an Editor—could that be YOU? Out current editor is retiring, so if the magazine is to continue, a new editor is needed. You will be a good team-worker and good communicator, and be computer-literate. Familiarity with word-processing and page- layout software would be very useful too. To find out more about what is required, contact Tony on 01886 888500 [email protected] or Michelle on 01886 888344 [email protected].

December 2010 * The Villager 29