AgeUK and Wrekin ext.231 01743 233123 BINS - Waste Management Year 28 DecemberJanuary 2020 2021 0345 6789007 U [email protected] CAXTON SURGERY 01691 654646 S https://www.caxtonsurgery.co.uk/index.aspx Citizens Advice Bureau, Castle View 03444 991100 E CORBET SCHOOL www.corbetschool.net 01939 260296 DIAL-A-RIDE, Volunteer Bureau and Qube Arts centre 01691 656882 F (main switchboard Osw.Community Action) ELECTRICITY Scottish Power (Manweb as was) 0800 270072 U KNOCKIN Medical Practice 01691 682203 L Methodist Chapel: Revd Julie Skitt 07810 360778 https://westfeltonmagazine.wixsite.com/website Methodist Hall (Bookings) 01691 610348 NHS Out of Hours Service 111 Orthopaedic Hospital 01691 404000 T Parish Council email: [email protected] Supporting local Business https://www.westfeltonparish.co.uk/ E POLICE, West Mercia Non-Emergency number 101 L Police Station 0300 333 3000 Safer Neighbourhood team—email: E [email protected] Pradoe Church: Chairman: Andrew Kenyon 01691 610218 P PUNCH BOWL 01691 610322 QUEENS HEAD RESTAURANT 01691 610255 H RAIL STATION, GOBOWEN 01691 681010 Roman Catholic Church: Fr Philip 01691 652248 O Holy Mass Saturday 6:30 pm, Sunday 10 am N RSPCA Shropshire Branch 07703 567935 SAMARITANS 116 123 E SCHOOL – C E School 01691 610388 SHOP: West Felton Stores 01691 610863 SHROPSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL 0345 6789000 Anti-Social Report Line 0345 6789020 N Your Shrops Councillor: Steve Charmley 01691 587958 U email:[email protected] St Michael’s Church: Revd Suzan Williams 01691 238658 M Revd Jassica Castillo-Burley 01691 611749 Church Wardens: Mr Kenneth Gull 01691 653200 B Dr Michael Davie 01691 610612 St. Chad’s: Chapel Warden: Mrs A Hampson 01691 610845 E ROYAL BRITISH LEGION - Secretary 01691 610357 VILLAGE HALL Bookings 01691 610629 R WASP Problems Emergency number 01691 831251 / 07779 81025 S WATER - Severn Trent Water Authority 0800 7834444 WOMEN’S INSTITUTE: Yvette Openshaw 01691 611645 Eileen Hanmer 01691 610629 48 1

WHAT’S ON David Davies & Sons Parish Council Second Tuesday of the month at the slightly later time of "Serving the community for over 170 years" 8pm, via Zoom. West Felton Walkers SUSPENDED for the time being see page

Step by Step Dance Instruction FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Badminton Please check for availability Felton Flexors Club : An independent family business Pilates Classes offering a complete service Table Tennis Rainbows SUSPENDED including pre-paid funeral plans Short Mat Bowls SUSPENDED for the season. More info September 2021 Children's Martial Arts SUSPENDED. More info January 2021 RBL Meetings SUSPENDED for the time being. 1 Upper Church Street, Oswestry SY11 2AA RBL Bingo SUSPENDED for the time being. 01691 653116 WI SUSPENDED for the time being

PLEASE NOTE CHANGED TIME OF POST OFFICE OPENING ON FRIDAYS

Resolve to keep happy, and you and your joy will W. E. Price form an invincible host against difficulties. Helen Keller

HAPPY NEW YEAR from the Magazine committee We provide the highest level of care, compassion and professionalism.

Available 24 hours a day. Pre-paid funeral plans available

THE ROYAL BRITISH West Felton 01691 610975 Oswestry 01691 652995 LEGION www.wepricefuneraldirectors.co.uk West Felton Branch Chairman Jim Maxwell

Branch Sec: Amanda Wood 01691 610 357 Oakwood, Salop Road, Oswestry, SY11 2RN Meetings suspended for the time being. Disclaimer Round and About West Felton Magazine is not responsible for any advertiser’s products, services or company, nor for any claims made by advertisers. The information, statements and opinions expressed in reports or articles published in Round and About West Felton Magazine are solely those of the authors and do not in any way reflect those of the magazine committee.

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for Social events, Concerts, Weddings, Clubs, Sales, Children's parties

CHARGES Phone Eileen Hanmer 01691 610629

Hourly rate £8 Concerts £50 Morning or Afternoon £45 Children's Parties (max 3 hours) £35 Discos/parties £70 Weddings, all day £100

From 12th October, the Post Office will be located in the entrance lobby of the village hall on the following days: Monday 9:30 am - 12:30 pm; Wednesday 9:30 am - 12:30 pm NOTE CHANGE: Friday 9 am - 12:30 pm

WF Methodist Church School Room (opp. playing field) is available for hire Suitable for Meetings, Children’s Parties, etc. £5.50 per hour To book contact Mrs D Barnes 01691 610348 SUSPENDED Round and About West Felton

Articles/advertisement amendments for inclusion in next issue to Editor by email (preferred) or phone

BY 15th JANUARY, please

For articles and advertising Treasurer: Kate Gray space contact For further details 01691 610425

Editor: Colleen Hughes Advertising Rates Tel 01691 610300 annual subscription of: Quarter page £35 Half page £55 Full page £90

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Parish of Whittington and West Felton with Haughton Telephone - 01691 610863 Rector: Reverend Suzan Williams, The Rectory, Castle Street Whittington, 01691 238658. Opening Hours Curate at West Felton: Reverend Jassica Castillo-Burley, 7.00 am - 8.00 pm Monday - Friday The Rectory, West Felton 611749

7:30 am - 8 pm Saturday West Felton CHURCH SERVICES 7:30 am - 7 pm Sunday Subject to revised COVID regulations after 3 December

Christmas Day open 10am to 5pm ST MICHAEL’S - Sundays 9.30 am Hello West Felton, • A weekly service with weeks 1 and 3 being a form of morning prayer; • weeks 2 and 4 a modified communion service;

• and on week 5, when it occurs, morning prayer. We are doing the delivery service again for those who are shielding at home. ST CHAD’S, HAUGHTON one service a month on the 4th Sunday at 4.00pm Please order Please also see notice outside St Chad’s • between 9-12 on our telephone number (01691 610 863) Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals: Please arrange with The Rector, • or Whatsapp your order on our business number Rev’d Suzan Williams 01691 238658 or the Churchwardens. (+441691610863). See back page for phone numbers

We will deliver as soon as possible, Christmas isn’t cancelled please leave your name and telephone number, Thursday 24th of December at 4pm so we may contact you. Thank you. Join us for our zoom nativity that will be streamed to Facebook. Join us dressed as your favourite Nativity character Essential items only please, And be prepared for some Christmas fun! the minimum spend is £10.00

(excluding alcohol, tobacco Friday 25th of December at 10.30am and cigarettes). Join us for our Christmas day celebration

With best wishes to all Below is a link for an interactive online advent calendar and for the New Year a nativity scene that you can build online yourself: West Felton Stores team https://www.whychristmas.com/adventcalendar/ https://www.whychristmas.com/fun/buildanativity.shtml Contact Suzan for more details 01691 238658 or email revwilliams1991@icloud .com

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WEST FELTON PARISH COUNCIL https://www.westfeltonparish.co.uk/

Clerk to West Felton Parish Council: Mrs Rosemary WOOD 01939 262881 Parish Office: 5 Newtown Gardens ShrewsburySY4 2HF Email: [email protected] Website: www.westfeltonparish.co.uk Chairman Cllr Marian HESKETH 01691 610 441(Representative for Village Hall) Vice-Chairman Cllr David WALKER 01691 897117 (Rep Helicopter Noise Group) Cllr Dianne BARNES 0787 4867605 Cllr Carole COLES 01691 610 225 Cllr David CURTIS 01691 610665 (Rep for Village Hall, Primary School and LJC) Cllr Roger HAMPSON 01691 610 845(Representative for ABP Liaison Committee) Cllr Chris JONES 01691 610 354

Cllr Kay KYNASTON 01691 610 368 Masonry Repair Specialist Cllr Pat MABE 01691 610 400 (Representative for SALC Area Committee) Brick and Stone Repointing / Damaged Masonry Replaced Cllr Ed NICHOLAS 01691 610 230 ASSOCIATED SERVICES - ROOF REPAIRS-Slate-Tile-Flat Cllr Alison OLLIER 01691 610878 Storm Damage/Insurance Claims/Guttering/New Build/Masonry Repainting Shropshire Councillor Cllr Steve CHARMLEY 01691 650 488 Clear Masonry Sealants/Large and Small Works Insured / References / FREE WRITTEN QUOTES Contact 01743 742052 - 07527 893044 - [email protected] SUMMER PRICES ALL YEAR ROUND / Shropshire and Mid Wales

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Brush and Vacuum – Leakage testing – Nests removed – Cowls, Bird Guards and caps supplied and fitted. Open fire, multi fuel stoves, Aga, domestic and commercial. Fully Insured with NFU, Certificates given. For a Fast, Rednal Garage Friendly and Clean Service or Unit 5 Rednal Aerodrome just help and advice.

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from Maggie Lokier WHIST DRIVE

TM And here we are again with no whist drives booked until Spring in the hope that we can meet safely and enjoy our 24 games in good company. Just keep your hands occupied with shuffling, dealing and playing cards, and your minds busy with quizzes, crosswords and reading. Next year, all being well, we will reconvene OSWESTRY and renew our love for the beautiful game.

How about poem – by a farmer’s wife/carer who hits the spot on topicality TOWN MARKET Old news hand We’ve cancelled everything we We’re living through a time of doubt planned. There is a lot of it about. The diary’s looking rather bleak, We wear a mask and stand apart, Just empty pages week on week. A constant cough is the new fart. But when we’re old and very grey We follow stickers on the floor We’ll bore the youngsters of the day and use our sleeve to push a door, We’ll tell them how we fought for flour and if we can’t respect the space And tried to fill each waking hour. we will be caught by test and trace. One day this will be just old news Then if we meet up, more than six Once more we’ll have our right to our neighbours will start throwing choose bricks. but when we die and approach hell we will be victims of our fate They’ll make us squirt our hands with and we’ll be told to isolate. gel. No hugs from friends, no shakes of Jan Millward©

COME AND ENJOY West Felton Walking for Health group THE WARM and FRIENDLY Walks continue to be suspended until sometime in the New Year when, de- ATMOSPHERE pending on the situation, a further decision will be made. Members are asked to enquire through any of the walk leaders the state of INDOOR MARKET: STREET MARKET: play at that time. OVER Seasonal greetings to you all and keep active, Mike Wednesday, Wednesday Walk leaders:-

Friday & 30 & Mike Bossen 01691 610623 John and Eileen Hanmer 01691 610629 Saturday STALLS Saturday Hilary Iles 01691 610707 Liz and Dave Embrey 01691 658275

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RICHARDS GROUNDWORKS

Surfacing Contractor Drives - Tarmac - Block Paving - Slabs Highways and Local Authority Approved Contractor References available

John Richards, Pentre, Telephone: 07958 156054 / 01743 741503 Chris Orme Painter & Decorator Free quotes - All work undertaken For more information call: Home 01691 828298 - Mob: 07817 614 848 The Fields, Deytheur, Llansantffraid, Powys SY22 6TE

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• Decking Domestic- Commercial Welcome to Shropshire Landscapes a leading landscaping company with a • Conservatories reputation for creating truly magnificent and unique gardens throughout No Job too Big or too Small • Patios • All Glasswork Shropshire. As true landscaping specialists, we take pride in what we do, and • Outside Lighting • Driveways • Solar Panels work closely with each of our clients to develop inspired concepts, creating • Periodic Testing and Inspection exciting, practical garden design. Our philosophy is simple reliability, • General Electrical Work • Fuse combined with a professional service and value for money. Services we offer: Board Upgrades DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL Patios and all aspects of paving Decking Landlord Safety Checks COMPETITIVE RATES Fencing and trellises Turf laying and artificial grass REFERENCES ON REQUEST Driveways and paths Natural stone paving - Indian stone • Free Quotations • New Builds Garden walls, brickwork, rendering • Extensions - Re-wires Contact us for a free no obligation quote All work is certificated & fully tested "Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works.” 01691 610638 or 07849 217738 With us there are no ‘hidden costs’ – we set out the inclusive price. Quotations are free of charge and made at a time to suit you. We look [email protected] forward to hearing from you. 01691 611680 - 07400 821581 or [email protected] 8 41

The Christmas Present Home is where Educationthe and support in settling your baby and infant massage A Short Story by Richmal Crompton (Abridged) care is Enabling you to remain Are you looking for local support with helping Mary Clay looked out of the window of the old farmhouse. The view was dreary independent your baby or infant to settle or resettle? enough—hill and field and woodland, bare, colourless, mist-covered—with no other Are you fed up with having broken or very little sleep? house in sight. She had never been a woman to crave for company. She liked sewing. Do you feel the lack of sleep is affecting your health? She was passionately fond of reading. She was not fond of talking. Probably she could Would you like to learn infant massage in either a group setting or one have been very happy at Cromb Farm—alone. Before her marriage she had looked forward to the long evenings with her sewing and reading. She knew that she would be on one? busy enough in the day, for the farmhouse was old and rambling, and she was to have I have just under twelve years of experience working closely with no help in the housework. But she looked forward to quiet, peaceful, lamplit evenings; families on a daily basis in a residential setting, assisting with sleeping, and only lately, after ten years of married life, had she reluctantly given up the hope of feeding and parenting concerns. I am a Registered Nurse, Child Health them. For peace was far enough from the old farm kitchen in the evening. It was driven Nurse (equivalent to UK health Visitor) and am a qualified Infant Mas- away by John Clay's loud voice, raised always in orders or complaints, or in the stum- sage Instructor and Baby Sleep Consultant. I am absolutely dedicated bling, incoherent reading aloud of his newspaper. to helping families and working towards achieving your goals for the 0- Mary was a silent woman herself and a lover of silence. But John liked to hear the 3 year age group. sound of his voice; he liked to shout at her; to call for her from one room to another; above all, he liked to hear his voice reading the paper out loud to her in the evening. If you feel that you would like some personalised support and advice She dreaded that most of all. It had lately seemed to jar on her nerves till she felt she call Jackie, Phone: 07494 449 993 or 01691 611744 must scream aloud. His voice going on and on, raucous and sing-song, became un- Email: [email protected]. speakably irritating. His "Mary!" summoning her from her household work to wherever he happened to be, his "Get my slippers," or "Bring me my pipe," exasperated her al- Website: Babyserenityuk.com most to the point of rebellion. "Get your own slippers" had trembled on her lips, but had never passed them, for she was a woman who could not bear anger. Noise of any kind appalled her. Home is where the It was Christmas next week. She smiled ironically at the thought. Then she noticed the care is her husband coming up the road. "Mary!" She went slowly in answer to the summons. He held a letter in his hand. "Met Enabling you to remain the postman," he said. "From your aunt." She opened the letter and read in silence. independent Both of them knew well what it contained. "She wants us to go over for Christmas again," said Mary. He began to grumble. "She's as deaf as a post. She's 'most as deaf as her mother was. She ought to know better than to ask folks over when she can't hear a word any one says." Mary said nothing. He always grumbled about the invitation at first, but really he want- ed to go. He liked to talk with her uncle. He liked the change of going down to the vil- Find out more information on lage for a few days and hearing all its gossip. He could quite well leave the farm to the our award winning home care "hands" for that time. The Crewe deafness was proverbial. Mary's great-grandmother had gone stone deaf at service. the age of thirty-five; her daughter had inherited the affliction and her grand-daughter, Email the Bluebird Care team: the aunt with whom Mary had spent her childhood, had inherited it also at exactly the [email protected] same age. or call us on 01743 874343 "All right," he said at last, grudgingly, as though in answer to her silence, "we'd better or 01691 749128 go. Write and say we'll go." (Continued on page 11)

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Quality Day Care for Children • Owned and managed by Mums Up the Garden Path • Full day care from 12 weeks to pre-school • Nursery Education Funding for 3 and 4 year olds with Topiarius • 24u funding accepted / All inclusive fees To dig or not to dig • Open daily 51 weeks from 07.30 - 18.30 From Autumn 2019 we joined the No Dig brigade in the vegetable garden. This • Set in acres of farmland with large outdoor garden was partly due to the persuasive articles by Charles Dowding in Which? Garden- • Fresh home cooked food using locally sourced products ing and partly from the undoubted attraction of less work. It had taken a long time 01743 741554 - www.littlepixiesnursery.co.uk to be converted as I first read about no dig vegetable cultivation in a book by Kinton Business Park, Kinton, Nr Nesscliffe, SY4 1AZ James Gunston published in 1960—so it is by no means a new idea. The reasoning and advantages have not changed over the 60 years.

Business Support Programme Accounts Preparation Obviously, the immediate effect was indeed the time and energy saved by not dig- Management Accounts Financial Services ging over 100 m2 of vegetable plots. Only getting rid of weeds and raking was considerably quicker. There was no change for the next step as we always apply Tax Planning Payroll Services compost/soil conditioner on two of our three plots (most of the plot with brassicas SAGE software sales & support Auditing  is not really accessible in winter because it is still "in production"). We cannot Business Start Ups produce enough compost, who can, so we buy in soil conditioner. We have tried Offices Ellesmere, Oswestry, Llangollen and Telford: several products and this time it was 30 l bags of Pro-Grow which are very con- at: venient to handle and the material spreads easily. Telephone: 01691 622098 Chartered e-mail: [email protected] Accountants and The seed sowing and planting was just as usual, although it was very obvious that, Business Advisers unlike previous years, no firming and minimal raking were needed. Some areas were easier than others to get a nice texture and a uniform seed drill, but that is always the case as our soil varies between plots. Even in hard soil, germination was almost all good. Well, how did it go? In a nutshell, we saw no significant change in yields. Every year some things do better than others and there was no exception this time. Later sowings of radish didn't flourish and the second sowing of beetroot were small, Specialists in Domestic and but that is likely to be weather related. Soil couldn't be blamed as earlier crops were good. If anything, yields were slightly up taken overall. There was only one Commercial Carpets and Vinyls failure which was peas. However, an experiment proved beyond doubt that this was faulty seed and nothing to do with soil or conditions. Not that the supplier would admit it. Brassicas have mostly not yet reached maturity but all are looking Also Specialists in Safety Flooring very good and it could be that the firmer ground will suit them and prevent falling Altro, Polyflor, Tarkett, Gerflor, etc over. The summer cauliflowers were criticised for being too big so you can't win! The conclusion? We certainly will continue this year to practice No Dig. The va- For wet rooms, kitchens, bathrooms and saunas cant plots were cleared and raked and soil conditioner ordered before Christ- FREE ESTIMATES mas. We will use Pro-Grow again but in slightly larger quantities with the plan to apply around about 20 l per m2. I used a rake this year to rough up the top few cm for seed sowing but will probably make a "chrome" as used by James 01691 610003 or 07710 595221 0 Gunston, which is a fork with the tines bent at 90 and a hoe handle fitted. Roll We will bring the samples to you on Spring.

or we can arrange a time to meet at our showroom THE REAL MEANING OF PLANT CATALOGUE TERMINOLOGY: “Grows more beautiful each year” means “Looks like roadkill for the foreseeable future” “Vigorous” is code for “has a Napoleonic compulsion to take over the world” 10 39

(Continued from page 9) The Christmas Present Friendly , Reliable, Local Service Free no obligation estimates It was Christmas Eve. They were in the kitchen of her uncle's farmhouse. The deaf old High standard of work woman sat in her chair by the fire knitting. Upon her sunken face there was a curious sardonic smile that was her habitual expression. The two men stood in the doorway. No mess left behind! Mary sat at the table looking aimlessly out of the window. Outside, the snow fell in blinding showers. Inside, the fire gleamed on to the copper pots and pans, the crock- [email protected] ery on the old oak dresser, the hams hanging from the ceiling.

Installation Repairs Suddenly James turned. "Jane!" he said. The deaf woman never stirred. Tel 07969 833 610 Maintenance "Jane!" Still there was no response upon the enigmatic old face by the fireside. "Jane!" She turned slightly towards the voice. "Get them photos from upstairs to show John," he bawled. "What about boats?" she said. "Photos!" roared her husband. "Coats?" she quavered. Mary looked from one to the other. The man made a gesture of irritation and went from the room. He came back with a pile of picture postcards in his hand. "It's quicker to do a thing oneself," he grumbled. "They're what my brother sent from Switzerland, where he's working now. It's a fine land, to judge from the views of it." John took them from his hand. "She gets worse?" he said nodding towards the old woman. She was sitting gazing at the fire, her lips curved into the curious smile. Her husband shrugged his shoulders. "Aye. She's nigh as bad as her mother was." "And her grandmother." "Aye. It takes longer to tell her to do something than to do it myself. And deaf folks get a bit stupid, too. Can't see what you mean. They're best let alone." The other man nodded and lit his pipe. Then James opened the door. "The snow's stopped," he said. "Shall we go to the end of the village and back?" The other nodded, and took his cap from behind the door. A gust of cold air filled the room as they went out. Mary took a paper-backed book from the table and came over to the fireplace. "Mary!" She started. It was not the sharp, querulous voice of the deaf old woman, it was more like the voice of the young aunt whom Mary remembered in childhood. The old woman was leaning forward, looking at her intently. "Mary! A happy Christmas to 'ee." And, as if in spite of herself, Mary answered in DAVID JAMES CARPENTRY her ordinary low tones. "The same to you, auntie." "Thank 'ee. Thank 'ee." Mary gasped. "Aunt! Can you hear me speaking like this?" Internal and external property maintenance, gazebos, paving, The old woman laughed, silently, rocking to and fro in her chair as if with pent-up garden projects. Happy to discuss your requirements merriment of years. "Yes, I can hear 'ee, child. I've allus heard 'ee." with no commitment References available / Contact David James Mary clasped her hand eagerly. "Then—you're cured, Aunt—" "Ay. I'm cured as far 07930 185106 / 01939 262449 as there was ever anything to be cured." [email protected] "You—?" (Continued on page 13)

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(Continued from page 35) Tail of a dog Thinking of making a Will From the number available on Amazon it appears that remote controls are or Power of Attorney? frail creatures prone to accidents. Who knew…? Wills £150 Finally, because I must get this off to the head hitter post haste. Can I make a Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) £150 plea to all of you in the area to think of dogs, cats, horses, wildlife and people Sensibly priced and affordable Legal services who suffer with PTSD? PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE DON’T SET OFF FIRE- Call Paul Humphreys today WORKS OR THROW BANGERS. Hope your New Year is free of loud bangs, Tel: 01691 652233 whizzes and flashes. Love Shona www-.Asset-Wealth-Preservation.co.uk

A & J Moreton Hall pupils were in for a baa-rilliant time when Duncan Galliers they returned to school recently CATTERY Set in 100 acres of rural countryside, Moreton Hall is bringing Master Upholsterer and a piece of Shropshire’s farming life into the classroom follow- Open all year round Furniture Restorer ing the development of a small farm holding. Upholstery Cornflower Farm at Moreton Hall has been established to further develop the enrich- Cattery is fully heated ment opportunities pupils will enjoy as part of their learning. The farming enterprise Specialist in traditional encourages pupils to acquire skills through outdoor experiences and practical hands- Covered outside runs techniques for antique and on work, complimenting their classroom lessons. modern furniture. Moreton’s young farmers can undertake a number of different tasks as part of run- Collection and Delivery Leather and spring repair, ning a live farm: from feeding, grooming and preparing the animal beds to sourcing “Give your cat a holiday foam cut to size - food supplies, fundraising and promoting. and sundries! while you enjoy yours” The working farm is initially home to pygmy goats, welsh black sheep, hens and Sandstone Holdings, Call 01743 353981 or guinea pigs, Salt and Pepper. Dovaston, , email Lorna Campbell, Moreton Hall’s Development Director, who is passionate about the [email protected] benefits outdoor learning brings said: “Some pupils have spent three months learn- Oswestry SY10 8DS ing in front of a computer screen. If there is a time more than any other, it is now Tel: 01691 682 606 that they need to re-engage with their learning through new, practical and positive We are only 5 minutes from experiences. Spending time with animals and looking after them develops a real sense of responsibility and empathy as well as the fantastic benefits to well being West Felton and mental health.” Hannah Peel, Head of Biology and Ecology added: "The Farm is a fantastic chance for pupils to learn how Biology is applied in agriculture. I am looking forward to a wide range of opportunities where they can really engage with the Science of Farm- ing as well as developing a wider understanding of ecosystems, both natural and 24 salop road man made.” oswestry Principal George Budd commented: ”Lorna and Hannah made such a compelling SY11 2NU case for establishing Cornflower Farm which both reflects the rural setting of More- 01691 655 655 ton Hall and provides a wealth of opportunities for pupils of all ages to learn out- doors in a hands-on fashion. We are all excited to see it develop further over time.” Cornflower Farm will see lots of developments with lambing, hatching chicks and [email protected] farmers markets over the coming months.■ 12 37

(Continued from page 11)

REUPHOLSTERY "I was never deaf, child, nor never will be, please God. I've took you all in fine." Mary stood up in bewilderment. "You? Never deaf?" The old woman chuckled again. SUITES ANTIQUES - CONTRACT UPHOLSTERY "No, nor my mother—nor her mother neither." Wide range of Fabrics - OLD BAKEHOUSE, QUEENS HEAD Mary shrank back from her. "I—I don't know what you mean," she said, unsteadily. For Free Quotes call "Have you been—pretending?" 01691 610153 or 0780 1108860 "I'll make you a Christmas present of it, dearie," said the old woman. "My mother made me a Christmas present of it when I was your age, and her mother made her one. I haven't a lass of my own to give it to, so I give it to you. It can come on quite sudden like, if you want it, and then you can hear what you choose and not hear what you choose. Do you see?" She leant nearer and whispered, "You're shut out of it all— SEPTIC TANK EMPTYING SERVICE of having to fetch and carry for 'em, answer their daft questions and run their errands Registered Waste Carrier like a dog. I've watched you, my lass. You don't get much peace, do you?" Mary was trembling. "Oh, I don't know what to think," she said. "I—I couldn't do it." Local Operator "Do what you like," said the old woman. "Take it as a present, anyways—the Crewe For a prompt and efficient service deafness for a Christmas present," she chuckled. "Use it or not as you like. You'll find it main amusin', anyways." And into the old face there came again that curious smile Contact Edward Scott as if she carried in her heart some jest fit for the gods on Olympus. on 01691 656256 or 07989881870 The door opened suddenly with another gust of cold air, and the two men came in again, covered with fine snow. "I—I'll not do it," whispered Mary, trembling. "We didn't get far. It's coming on again," remarked John, hanging up his cap. The old woman rose and began to lay the supper, silently and deftly, moving from cupboard to table without looking up. Mary sat by the fire, motion- less and speechless, her eyes fixed on the glowing coals. "Any signs o' the deafness in her?" whispered James, looking towards Mary. "It come on my wife jus' when she was that age." "Aye. So I've heered." Then he said loudly, "Mary!" have a great Hair Day A faint pink colour came into her cheeks, but she did not show by Salon Style In Your Own Home look or movement that she had Advanced Cutting Techniques / Colour Specialists heard. James looked significantly Perming / Setting and Straightening at her husband. Gents Grooming / Children The old woman stood still for a Wedding Packages minute with a cup in each hand www.NatashaValentine.co.uk and smiled her slow, subtle Freelance Hairdressing - 07967 620555 smile.■

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CARNIVAL COMMITTEE from Eileen Hanmer Hello everyone, It seems such a long time since the committee had anything to tell the village, but “WOW” what a great Christmas Tree we have this year supplied by Leaton Forest. I’m sure you will agree the baubles have made it so colourful. Sharon Arthur had this wonderful idea. She worked so hard in selling them as well as spraying the names on. We have the pets near the top followed by adults and then further down the children’s names, so they look for their very own bauble. The amount we made was £410 which will be going to a little girl called Eva who just lives across the border in Wrexham. Last Christmas at the age of 9 years she was diagnosed with a terminal brain tumour. The family have been overwhelmed with the kindness and generosity of West Felton. Lets hope it will help Eva and her two little brothers have a good Christmas. Visit our website at: www.the-queens-head-oswestry.co.uk The committee would like to wish you all a very Happy Christmas Our full menu is available online and we shall keep our fingers crossed for CARNIVAL2021 on July 11th. We can cater for most dietary needs Takeaway available on all our menus 10% discount The Tail of a Dog – and on to New Year 2021 Shona here – blimey is it the next issue already? – well I do have an update or 3 so here goes. First off presents – yes, I got some – a new pair of zebra striped pyjamas and very snazzy I look in them. Perfect for those cold winter nights & Missus says there is a bonus! She doesn’t have to get up when I whine to put the blanket back on me. What do you mean spoilt – never. Oh, and there was a new sack of rabbits’ ears and a cuddle toy to snuggle into when she potters off shopping

Homely environment - Fully insured - Competitive Rates without me. It was an odd Christmas as she wasn’t away very long, and we stayed here rather than at Missus2’s house. I do like a little cooked bird Cache Level 3 Certificate in Childminding Practice straight off the bone of course but no sprouts yuckkkkk. ‘pacey’ member. I have vacancies at present. Missus says you need to know about my new tricks – shredding beds or as I prefer to say, “Missus my bed has exploded”. There was stuffing all over the Please call Sharon 610767 sitting room with the first one. Missus cleaned up said tut tut Shona and I looked shocked. One week later in the dining room there was another wide- spread lot of fluffy stuff. It was an old bed Missus said “beloved Daisy use to STEPHEN MORRIS MASTER CHIMNEY SWEEP LTD lie on this sob” ... Yeh well all gone now. Bin was full after all that and Missus has used old duvets to replace. I thought I would get a new bed – deserved it Fully insured - Est 1989 quite frankly but no…. And then there were more pieces of bread & butter, one 01691 860616 or 07802 655145 with blackcurrant gin jam. Very tasty but Missus is on the alert now. Darn it. Rotary Power Sweeping of Wood / Multi My piece of resistance is the tv remote control. I thought I should decide what Fuel Stoves and Service and Maintenance we watch so grabbed it while she was out. Plastic tastes foul so I spat it out HETAS Approved - NVQ Qualified / APICS Master Member and after my first chew it still worked. After my 2nd chew it vanished into a drawer and she ordered a replacement. Registered with Safe Sweep Trading Standards Approved (Continued on page 37)

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A CHRISTMAS QUIZ from Maggie Lokier Home Tutor -Does your child need a little extra support at home? 1. Which word, often associated with Christmas, stems from the Greek word for circle I am an experienced primary teacher (literacy specialist) able to provide 1-1 private dance? tutoring sessions in your own home either in the evenings, weekends or during holi- 2. Which English leader prohibited the singing of Christmas songs? days. Lessons are individually tailored to meet your child’s needs to increase their 3. The following are words from which Christmas songs? confidence, enjoyment of learning and accelerate progress. I offer support in read- a. she didn’t see me creep down the stairs to have a peep ing, writing, maths and any other subjects required. I am experienced in teaching b. she'd been drinking too much egg nog children for whom English is a second language and children with additional needs. I c. once bitten and twice shy I keep my distance have an up to date CRB and can provide references. d. in the lane the snow is glistening For more information call Jean: on 01691 611625 / 07852 247799 e. the choir of children sing their song they practiced all year long 4. Many people claim that the first unofficial football international between Germany and a Scotland side was played on a Christmas Day. The pitch or playing field was found between what? 5. The Christmas film 'Miracle on 34th Street' has been remade many times. Who won a best supporting actor Oscar for the role of Kris Kringle in the original 1947 film and which two time Oscar winner played Kris in the 1994 remake? 6. 'Who' catches the Grinch red handed stealing Christmas presents? 7. In which country does an ugly old witch named Bafana deliver presents on the 6th of December? a. Australia; b. Austria; c. Italy; d. Mexico 8. In which country is St. Nick called Sinterklaas? 9. "Good King Wenceslas looked out on the feast of Stephan". In which country was Wenceslas king? 10. Apparently, while poking at the fire, the London sweet shop owner Tom Smith got the inspiration to make what? Answers—somewhere in this magazine.

West Felton Methodist Church

Minister: Rev Julia Skitt 07810 360778 Secretary: Mrs Christine Curtis 01691 610665

Until further notice all services and activities at West Felton Methodist Church are suspended.

Garden Services and Paddock maintenance Lawn mowing and scarifying, strimming, hedge cutting, topping, wood chipping / Seasoned logs for sale My old teacher used to tell me that I'd never be any good at Fully insured, reliable, friendly service and advice given poetry due to my dyslexia. Well I've recently made 3 jugs and Contact Tony on 07850 194933 a vase so there, Mr Jones! 34 15

Healthwatch would like to hear your views about hospital PROFESSIONAL TREATMENT and ADVICE discharge during Covid19 PAIN RELIEF Healthwatch Shropshire wants to find out about people’s experiences of leav- ing hospital during the pandemic. Since March hospitals have been working closely back and neck problems ● sporting injuries ● arthritic conditions with community health, social care partners and local councils to improve the dis- muscle and ligament strains ● muscle imbalance problems charge process. Triggered by Covid19, the aim has been to make sure no one is in ● tenosynovitis ● repetitive strain syndromes ● back care hospital longer than they need to be. ● post surgical re-education ● education talks Healthwatch is gathering people’s experience of discharge under the current Treatments available include: arrangements and have worked with local hospital trusts, the Clinical Commission- Appointments can be made direct ing Group and Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin Councils to develop a short ques-  Joint mobilisations and or through your GP. tionnaire. They want to hear about what is working well and where things could be manipulations Appointments can be arranged at improved so that lessons can be learnt and changes made to improve the process  Exercises short notice. and patient experience of leaving hospital. People can find the questionnaire here:  Connective tissue mas- Treatment times can be arranged https://www.healthwatchshropshire.co.uk/tell-us-about-your-experience-leaving- sage out of working hours. hospital-during-covid-19  Postural Awareness  Electro-therapy hillside cottage, hopton, This survey is an extension of a national survey by Healthwatch England. They are very keen to hear people’s experiences of discharge, the detail will help local hos-  Ergonomic Advice nesscliffe, , sy4 1dg Tel: 01743 741544 pitals and councils understand how the systems they have put in place are affecting  Ultrasound people across Shropshire. They want to hear from as many people as possible and encourage people to call their local Healthwatch who will complete the survey with them over the phone. Tel 01743 237884 . Systems put in place at the beginning of the pandemic will stay in place for some ●New PCs and Laptops fully installed at home time to come so it is vital that the patient experience is recorded and shared with ●Spyware Removal/Installation of Leading Edge the hospitals and organisations involved. There is a real desire to hear from patients Spyware Prevention and learn from their experiences. ●Performance Tuning and Business PC Support ●Hardware/Software Installations and Training Health and social care partners across Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin and Powys are ●Upgrades and Automated Backup working together on overcoming the barriers to sharing information and removing ●Remote Support/Annual PC Health Check Also unnecessary delays when people leave hospital. Working together hospital teams Available have supported patients in decisions for discharge at the right time. Improved com- ●For low fixed Prices from £19.95 munication and processes has put individuals, families and carers at the centre of PC/Laptop Stopped running or running slow or need a replacement? all decision-making discussions so that when a loved one leaves hospital, they have Call Justin on (01691) 830822 or (07772) 596029 the best support and plans in place. They want to hear about your personal experi- ences to ensure continuous improvement of the hospital discharge process. Healthwatch Shropshire and Healthwatch Telford & Wrekin are the independent consumer champions for health and social care in Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin. Covering all of North Shropshire and Welsh Border Counties They gather the views and experiences of patients, service users, carers, and the Oil fired heating engineer for all types of work relating to oil fired heating general public about services including hospitals, GPs, mental health services, systems including boiler servicing, installation, breakdowns, leakage community health services, pharmacists, opticians, residential care and children’s problems and all types of maintenance. services. They also have statutory powers that can be used to influence service pro- All aspects of general plumbing work also undertaken vision by encouraging improvements. ■ JIM PARKES Healthwatch Shropshire, 4 The Creative Quarter, Shrewsbury Business Park, Shrewsbury SY2 6LG Tel: 01743 237884. 01978 722598 / M Email [email protected]

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Church News Painter & Decorator from Michael Davie, Churchwarden

All aspects of interior or exterior Avid readers of the Daily Mail will have been reminded that the comic called Bunty, over a quarter of century, ago proclaimed that a disease would sweep the decoration undertaken country in 2020 and cause all sorts of problems! Christmas as well as other festi- Great Ness - Shropshire vals would be affected, possibly cancelled. Whilst Christmas has not been banned, it is looking like being very different from the usual festive season due 01743 741172 mobile 07795 262629 to the Covid-19 virus. Yet there have been instances in the past when Christmas [email protected] was officially banned in countries where Christianity was practised but not banned. SUPPLIERS OF COAL, LOGS AND GAS BOTTLES The most notable example in Britain was between 1647 and 1659 following the COAL AVAILABLE IN OPEN TOP SACKS AND first Civil War. This conflict could be regarded as a war of religion, although PRE PACK BAGS Charles 1st did not play his cards well. In the previous 100 years Henry VIII had ALL FUELS AVAILABLE INC SMOKELESS challenged the power of Rome, Catholic Spain had sent an Armada against Eng- land, the Gunpowder plot made people anxious about catholicism and Puritan- RING US ON 01743 241122 ism was on the rise. The marriage of Charles1st to Henrietta Maria caused added OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT apprehension as she was a Catholic, encouraged Catholic worship in court and www.ridgefuels.co.uk supported Charles in his efforts to interfere in the Thirty Years War in Europe PLEASE QUOTE REF 002 ON YOUR FIRST ORDER TO GET YOUR (another war of religion). “NEW” CUSTOMER PACK When Charles 1st recalled parliament in 1640, partly to ask for money to engage in the Thirty Years War, his fate was sealed. Parliament had many grievances and withheld taxes. Moreover many members had a Puritan outlook. By 1647 Charles had lost the first civil war and was held captive. The Puritans now con- trolled parliament and proclaimed that all holy days, including Christmas, across REDNAL ESTATE the British Isles be abolished. Christmas was seen as a Pagan festival and there was no mention of it being on 25th December in the Bible. Abolition of Christmas was not popular. Shops were required to stay open and churches were locked to prevent the taking of a Christmas service. In Norwich COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY the mayor was asked by the population to allow a normal Christmas and whilst refusing to do so, ignored the celebrations that took place. The authorities sum- moned him to London to explain his failure to stop the celebrations, but he was prevented from leaving Norwich by the population. Parliament sent in the mili- tary and in the ensuing turmoil an ammunition dump exploded leading to consid- Sites A & B Rednal Airfield:- Industrial units, erable loss of life. Disorder was not confined to Norwich. Kent was also a hotspot of Christmas workshops, hardstanding, lockups, storage, offices celebrations. In Canterbury the usual Christmas football game took place and again the military intervened. Towns in Suffolk treated Christmas as a time for fun and men patrolled the streets to ensure that shops did not open. In Westmin- All Enquiries ster the churchwardens of St Margaret’s church were seized by the authorities for allowing festivities. The Mayor of London tried to tear down Christmas dec- T: 01691 610303 orations (which were also banned) and here also the military were called upon to E-Mail: [email protected] Website: www.rednal.net (Continued on page 19)

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Happy New Year from Rev’d Suzan Firstly I would like to take the opportunity to wish you a very happy new year. I think many of us will be relieved to see the back of 2020 with all the challenges we faced in terms of journeying through circumstances that we never imagined. A global pandemic that we will continue to feel the consequences of into 2021. However I didn’t want my first letter of the year to be gloomy and depressing. Because I think we saw, experienced and were part of a corporate wave of hope and kindness that bucks against the many assumptions that everyone is out for themselves and neighbours don’t know each other or that the spirit of caring for those in need has been lost. We saw village shops delivering to those who were advised to stay at home due to be clinically vulnerable and neighbours forging deep connections due to the wave of our communities responding in gratitude to our key workers putting their own safety at risk to care for those most affected by the virus in our hospitals and post- men, shop assistants, refuse collectors and many more including teachers continu- ing to work throughout. In our own village the local shop stayed open throughout and a village whatsapp group ensured any need was identified and catered for. In Luke 10 verses 25-37 we hear the Parable told by Jesus of the Good Samaritan. Which entails a samaritan man being attacked on the road between Jerusalem and Jericho. Three people encounter that man in need and two pass him by but the third stops and not only binds his wounds but takes him to a local inn, he pays the immediate cost and pledges to pay any bill outstanding when he returns. Of his audience Jesus then asks “Which of these three do you think was a neighbour to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” And the expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.” Jesus re- sponse then is very clear and concise. “Go and do likewise.” It’s so important in this season that we continue to look out for the vulnerable in our communities, to show that practical support and help. To show we care and are interested in their needs and vulnerabilities as well as our own. Some catego- rised as extremely clinically vulnerable have never stopped shielding since the first lockdown so as many of us breath huge sighs of relief as the vaccine program is rolled out across the country and others amongst us are more cautious and un- certain. Lets continue to intentionally look out for one another and be the embodiment of hope and courage that is needed at this time. Every Blessing Suzan See page 45 for service times and Christmas events. 18 3131

(Continued from page 17) Church News Roberts Refresh intervene. The riots over Christmas in 1647 were all part of a general discon- tent with the Puritanical regime and the prevailing sense probably encouraged Your Local West Felton Cleaning Lady Charles 1st to escape from Hampton Court. In spite of his recapture he man- aged to persuade the Scots to back him, leading to the second civil war, his de- I cover Oswestry and Domestic Cleaning Service feat and his execution. Christmas remained banned for the remainder of the surrounding areas For your home or office Commonwealth. Please call Kelly Roberts on: Two years professional experience References on request People with puritanical outlooks also exerted their influence in other parts of 07597 185297 the world. The Mayflower had left for Plymouth, Massachusetts in 1620. An Or email: From £10.00 per hour early law book of the colony stated that to prevent disorder by the observation [email protected] Monday to Friday of festivals (that other countries continued to observe) ‘to the great dishonour of God’ anyone found feasting or not working should pay five shillings for each misdemeanour. This applied not only to Christmas but also to other days regarded as Holy by other countries. The Puritans felt that such ‘Holy-days’ why not try diverted attention from religious discipline and that such a pagan idea would constitute worshipping of false gods. In the United States Christmas gradually OSWESTRY became to be accepted and in 1870 it was declared a national holiday.■ CABS NEW TEDSMORE WALK 01691 661663 To all Residents of West Felton Don’t pay more for door to door?  Robert and Gina Parker of Tedsmore Hall offer a beautiful cross country walk of 1.5 miles through open country and woodland around the estate, West Felton to Oswestry which would be around 40 mins walk time. The walk is on a ‘made’ path, and £6.90 - 6 am till m/night is therefore pretty well free of mud and water all year round. £11.00 - m/night till 6 am Oswestry to  Tedsmore is about 1 mile from West Felton, and just a five minute drive Manchester Airport £59.00 from the village.

8 passenger minibus available -  There is ample parking near the start of the walk Oswestry to Wrexham £56 re-  Dogs are welcome, and can be off leash if they are not aggressive. turn All our reasonable rates  Access is subject to prevailing COVID19 restrictions which can be subject to just a ‘phone call away change. A WALKING PERMIT (which should be carried at all times when on the Estate. please) CAN BE APPLIED FOR via Alan Williams Carpenter/Joiner Forge Property Consultants on 01691 610317. All joinery considered. When your permit is sent to you, a map will be included to show: Fitted wardrobes, laminated and solid wood flooring, • The walk PVC facias, making and fitting doors and frames • Access points and fitting kitchens. No job too small. • Parking Over 40 years experience

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(Continued from page 27) Healthwatch Village Bobby’s keep staff consistent, particularly for those with Dementia, but as they Contact Details have a high proportion of part time workers amongst their staff this is not always possible. • The rurality of the county poses extra problems for providers in respect of PC 3194 Mark Moth, Oswestry Rural South LPO (Local Police Officer) travel time. Mob: 07816 172474 - Not to be used to report incidents or crimes • Hospital discharges can pose problems for providers due to a lack of com- : 0300 333 3000 Crimestoppers: 0800 555111 munication, mixed messages or failed discharges. New non emergency number 101 • For some, technology is making the administrative side of the business more efficient and improving communication. Lynn Cawley, Chief Officer of Healthwatch Shropshire, said “Provision of home care comes with its challenges particularly in rural areas but it has been reassuring to hear from the majority of people who responded to our survey that their experience has been good. We want to continue to hear about home care services, particularly how the service has been delivered during the pandemic, including to those people who have been discharged from BRICKLAYER & GROUNDWORK hospital.” The report can be found here https://www.healthwatchshropshire.co.uk/ report/2020-09-03/home-care-shropshire

Healthwatch Shropshire are now looking closely at HOSPITAL DISCHARGE ■ Bricklaying Plastering Call to get quote during the pandemic—see page 33. Timber framework ■ Fencing OSWESTRY BASED Healthwatch Shropshire, 4 The Creative Quarter, Shrewsbury Business Park, Landscaping &THE Slabbing ROYAL BRITISHJOSH - 07484 775590 Shrewsbury SY2 6LG Tel: 01743 237884. Drainage & Septic Tank emptying BEN - 07484 775612 Email [email protected] Mini digger for hire [email protected] West Felton Branch Chairman Jim Maxwell MOBILE LIBRARY Branch Sec: Amanda Wood 01691 610 357 ● No one is allowed in the van. Queue outside the vehicle, ALLMeetings ASPECTS suspended OF WORK for the UNDERTAKEN time being. ● Maintain a 2 metre distance from others, wait at the step. ● Return your books in a bag. ● Ask for the books you would like and they will be handed to you in a bag. ● Face coverings are mandatory. DG & HA SMITH ● Make your visit as brief as you can. The next dates are: December 17th and January 28th Service and repair to all makes of A decision is expected during the week beginning oil fired boilers 11th January whether to carry on with this service, 01691 657634 or to go back to allowing borrowers on board, 11 Artillery Road, Park Hall, Oswestry SY11 4AJ therefore can’t confirm any further dates. We will let borrowers know the dates dur- Email [email protected] ing their visits in January. Grimpo: 14.20 - 14.35 - West Felton Village Hall: 14.50 to 15.30

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SCARECROWS raise funds for FOODBANK When COVID regulations prevented the annual St Michael’s Harvest Festival, Rev Suzan suggested a Scare- crow hunt. West Felton C of E Primary teachers, pupils and parents all set to with gusto and organised the event. Families made scarecrows which were displayed DOMESTIC / INDUSTRIAL / COMMERCIAL / AGRICULTURAL around the village, they sold maps and goodie bags at school and raised £400 for Oswestry Food Bank. It was • Septic Tank Emptying • Interceptor Emptying well attended by school and the community and they • Blocked Drains • Flood Assistance hope to repeat it in the future. • CCTV Camera Surveys • Sewer Jetting • Gully Emptying • 24/7 Emergency Callout NEW BOOKS FOR THE LITTLE ONES St Michael’s church donated £1500 to the school. It was dedicated to phonics reading scheme, buying dozens of books for our two youngest classes. CALL SCOTT ON 07581 384345 WWW.FREEFLOWDRAINAGELTD.CO.UK ANSWERS [email protected] I am fond of pigs. Dogs look 1. Carol (choranlein) up to us. Cats look down on 2. Oliver Cromwell us. Pigs treat us as equals. 3. Five Answers: Winston Churchill. a. I saw mommy kissing Santa Claus ……………………………………………………………………………………………. TAYLOR MAID b. Grandma got run over by a reindeer “As anyone who has ever c. Last Christmas been around a cat for any DO YOU REQUIRE A RELIABLE, HONEST PERSON TO HELP WITH: d. Winter Wonderland length of time well knows, ■ General housework e. Wonderful Christmas Time cats have enormous patience 4. Between the trenches in no-man’s land, with the limitations of the ■ C l e a ni ng Christmas 1914. (No match report is available humankind.” Cleveland Amory ■ G a r d e ni n g but it seems the Germans won 3-2.) ……………………………………………………………………………………………. 5. Edmund Gwenn and Richard Attenborough ■ Dog walking “Dogs never talk about them- 6. Cindy Lou Who selves but listen to you while ■ Trips to shops or 7. c Italy. Told to naughty children you talk about yourself and "Lo dico alla Befana" (I'll tell the Befana!!) d o c t o r s keep up an appearance of 8. Holland 9. Bohemia (Czech Republic) being interested in the con- CRB checked. 10. Christmas crackers versation.” Jerome K. Jerome ……………………………………………………………………………………………. Three references available. “If you think dogs can’t count, Shona says that “How much is that doggy in try putting three dog biscuits 01 691 610 782 the window” is a Christmas song BUT 07 484 140 470 only if that doggy stays in their new home for in your pocket and then give many years.■ him only two of them.” £10 per hour Author Phil Pastoret

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(Continued from page 23) WI report GREEN HOLLOW she puts in in these particularly strange times, mastering technology, sending out VETERINARY SURGERY newsletters, keeping up spirits and even increasing the membership, all the while in splendid COVID isolation. D. W. THURSTON BVetMed MRCVS School Road, Ruyton-X1-Towns, Nr. Shrewsbury The remaining official AGM business was covered, with many items deferred, with due deference to unknown future COVID restrictions and the recognition that 2021 will also be a challenging year for the WI generally. Members are looking forward to a time when they can get back together for physical meetings in the Village Hall as DOMESTIC PET, HORSE AND FARM ANIMAL PRACTICE soon as it is safe to do so. 24-hour Emergency Service - Consultation by appointment SPEAKER: Frances Carlaw aka 'The Pearl Lady' a former Denman tutor, shared her Morning, afternoon and evening surgeries passion and wisdom about pearls and gave a fascinating and informative talk. ALL NEW CLIENTS WELCOME If you would like to know more about West Felton Women’s Institute, please contact the President, Yvette Openshaw on 01691 611645. FARM ANIMAL SERVICES : SMALL ANIMAL SERVICES :

⚫ Routine Fertility work ⚫ Microchip Identity ⚫ Herd Health plans ⚫ Diagnostic X-ray & Ultrasound ⚫ Sheep and Goats… ⚫ In-house lab testing How is Home Care ⚫ Alpaca work ⚫ Pet food & accessories ⚫ Free Pet Health advice working in Shropshire? Home care (also known as domiciliary care) is often seen as the ‘front line’ of HORSE WORK : ● Wormers (discounts on large quantity) social care delivery and is critical to the longstanding intention to enable peo- ● ‘Vetting’ pre-purchase/insurance ple to ‘age in place’ and to deliver care as close as possible to people’s homes. In a project undertaken prior to COVID-19 Healthwatch Shropshire, the local health and social care consumer champion, asked those receiving home care A & M Fencing And Landscaping (also known as domiciliary care) in Shropshire to tell them about their experi- ences and have just published their report which found that: “A Professional And Quality Job Every time” Service users who responded to the survey were very happy with their ex- periences in the main: • Continuity of care was found to be an issue with 24% of respondents say- • All TYPES OF FENCING SUPPLIED AND ing that they felt that they see too many different carers. INSTALLED • More people who were funding their own care felt involved in decisions • All TYPES OF PATIO PAVING about their care (100%) than people who were receiving council or health • ARTIFICAL GRASS INSTALLATION funded care (88%). • • REFERENCES AND PHOTOS OF Self-funders were also more likely to feel the carers visited them at the times they wanted (86%) compared with people receiving council or COMPLETED WORK AVAILABLE health funded care (79%). • FREE QUOTATIONS When Healthwatch spoke to home care providers they heard that: • Recruitment is increasingly difficult for the sector and consistency of care

Call Mark on : 07706424865 Email : can be difficult to achieve. Providers told us that they try their best to [email protected] or 01691 680767 (Continued on page 29)

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Stokes Tree Works NPTC Qualified Tree Surgeons The WI Community Spirit Lives on through the Covid-19 Pandemic DIFFICULT TREES OUR SPECIALITY The West Felton WI regular November meeting on ZOOM was opened by President Yvette followed by a recording of Jerusalem, a well-loved tradition not to be forsworn Lopping * Felling * Pruning * Shaping even in a pandemic. It’s lovely to see the membership continuing to grow; we’re de- to British Standard Specifications lighted to welcome a new member to our WI this month. The Treasurer reported a healthy balance with 52 paid up members to date. Arrangements for the postponed Christmas mini market were finalised, with all members reminded to drop off their 01691 870300 or 07811 320982 contributions with certain committee members, or to request collection. Members were reminded of the National Membership Survey in the October issue of WI Life which can be completed online. The West Felton Annual Meeting (AGM) would follow this monthly meeting. Annual Meeting documents distributed covered the 2020 Financial Statement, Annual Meet- ing Minutes, Committee Report, President's Address, and Knit & Natter Report. The 2021 committee was named. Members had earlier been required to submit nomi- nations from this list for the role of President for the coming year:

 Sandra Acock  Eileen Hanmer  Yvette Openshaw  Liz Barker  Tracy Haycocks  June Smith  Dorothy Barnes  Sue Lanigan  Gillian Sturgess  Samantha Griffith Norris  Jo Lawson  Sally Wheeler  Ann Hampson

Oswestry North Group: West Felton will remain Group Convenor for 2021 due to Covid-19 (Group now includes Oswestry WI). As convenors, the committee agreed WF will invite the other group members to join their monthly zoom meetings from Dec 2020. Zoom Buddies: volunteers from committee are available to help others. December Speaker: At the December meeting they will have Sian Fox as speaker, “A canter through my always varied and sometimes plain daft career as a Home Econo- mist” January Speaker: Sarah Lott, “Why we should all capture out family memories. November birthday greetings were sent out to six of our ladies. Border Physiotherapy A thank you for flowers received from a member following her operation. Also, a Amanda Coxhead MCSP lovely thank you note was sent to the members following the recent sponsorship for the energetic efforts of one of our ladies who ran the Great North Run 2020 (Virtual), Stroke Rehabilitation / Paediatrics raising money for Dementia fund at Awyr Las Charity to help with those extra things that the NHS just can't afford. Home Visits WFWI Annual Meeting Minutes (via Zoom) 12 November 2020. Ballot for Presi- dent: Yvette was confirmed President for 2021, all members being extremely grateful www.border-physiotherapy.co.uk for her agreement to stand again and so appreciative of the many hours of hard work (Continued on page 27)

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Sycamore Class used indi- We Will Remember Them vidual crosses and combined them to form this to be dis- For the first time is many years, we were unable to join played by our war memorial. the community at the village war memorial on 11th No- vember due to Covid restrictions. However, we wanted to share our remembrance activities with you all...

Beech class created a mosaic style piece of art, representing Flan- ders Field. Willow Class drew beautiful poppies and wrote acrostic poems for our fallen soldiers.

Oak class created wreathes using their handprints to create these window displays.

The whole school con- tributed to our wall art, using recycled bottled to decorate the fence. Sycamore also studied war poetry by Wilfred Owen and created their own pieces of work.

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