CASSINGTON & WORTON NEWS News and views from the parish of Cassington and Worton December 2007 – Issue 366
From the team We were surprised to find our what’s on section reduced to less than a page this month. I hope this doesn’t mean you all forgot to get your notices in in time to catch our Christmas edition? However, what is on is suitably festive, with the St Peter’s School Christmas Fayre on the 7th (don’t forget, it’s in the evening), the WI Christmas Party on the 13th and the School Christingle Service in St Peter’s Church on the 19th. Also, looking towards the front of the newsletter, St Peter’s Church offers many opportunities to celebrate Christmas, and we would be very surprised if there weren’t mince pies to be found at the Cassington Cafe on Monday 3rd December. Festivities aside, a dominant feature of our news and reports are the effects of the flooding earlier in the year. If you or anyone you know has been affected there is some support available - see inside for details. Spire repairs to commence On an even less festive note, I hear the phantom fouler (or another of its kind) has Thanks to hard work and generous support from the village, the Friends returned to haunt our public spaces. Initial of St Peter’s have now raised enough to help the next phase of spire repairs observations suggest this is a large specimen who has taken to regularly booby-trapping get under way. The church has been successful in applying for grants too, the path to the allotments. If this sounds like and together with its own funds can now set a date to sort out the cracked your dog-walking pattern please try to be capstone and weather vane fixings at the top of the spire. Work should responsible, and in the meantime, walkers start in late spring next year, once the weather improves. But there’s always beware. more to be done and more money needed, especially if we’re going to On that note we’d like to wish you a very ... repair the bells and hear them ring again. Merry Why not join in with one of the Christmas services and celebrations and look out for future fund-raising events and give your support? Christmas
Tomb clearing reveals hidden message from the dead ... Advertising rates Local ‘what’s on’ and fund-raising stuff is free. This is James Tuckey’s Simple local services, ‘for sales’ etc, are now also Farewell vain world I’ve known enough of thee message to posterity – free on noticeboard. I value not what thou can say of me what do you think of Suitable commercial business are invited to his attitude? support our community by buying advertising space ... Thy smiles I count not nor frowns I fear James Tuckey 1/8 page, £5 (£50 per year) All’s one to me my head lies quiet here Died 29 June 1740 1/4 page, £8 (£80 per year) aged 64 (benefactor to 1/2 page, £12 (£120 per year) What faults thou see’st take care to shun the poor of this parish Full page, £20 (£200 per year) And look at home - there’s something to be done leaving £80 to be given Technical details for artwork available on in bread weekly request. All material included at the discretion of for ever) CAWN. Profits will be passed to the Cassington Parochial Charities to support our community.
Contributions should ideally be provided by email (in the body or as a Word attachment) to: [email protected]; delivered on floppy disc, or (as a last resort) typed or clearly handwritten, to Kevin Hinton, Mill Lane House, Mill Lane, Cassington, Witney OX29 4DL, by the 20th of the month. We look forward to hearing from you. THE CATHOLIC CHURCH OF Cassington Cafe ST PETER’S, EYNSHAM The Christmas Cafe will be on December 3rd and we look forward to seeing as many of you as can manage to be Abbey Street, Eynsham, OX29 4HR Tel: 01865 881613 there. Thank you all for your continued support. Serving the Hanboroughs, Freeland, Cassington, Stanton Our excess profits this year have gone to help the Harcourt and Sutton etc. You do not have to be a Catholic following village organisations: St Peter’s School, the to come to our Church or talk to the Priest. SPSA, the Sports and Social Club and the Playgroup. THE PRIEST: Fr. Martin Flatman is happy to receive Again, thank you all for your help. enquiries by phone, email or text. Our whole team wishes everyone a very happy and Mobile 07719 646790 [email protected]. blessed Christmas. HIS WEEKLY TALK (Homily) can be sent to you by email. Just email your request. THE CHURCH is open for prayer every day. Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal SUNDAY MASS 10.00am and The magnificent sum of £905.86 was achieved by the SATURDAY (for Sunday) 7.30pm House to House Collection this November. This far Daily services, events and confessions times as advertised. exceeds the previous highest amount of £791 given last year. Cassington’s outstanding generosity this year is in A DIFFERENT FORM OF PRAYER The repetitive line with the National trend, doubtless due to increased singing of the beautiful chants from Taizé marks the awareness lately of the sacrifices made by members of our beginning of Advent for us at St Peter’s on Saturday 1st armed forces. December from 6.30pm. Cassington Branch thanks all from the village and surrounds for their generous contributions, and our door OUR CHRISTMAS SERVICES to door collectors for their rewarding efforts. CHRISTMAS EVE : FIRST MASS OF CHRISTMAS 6.00pm suitable for children Mike Randle, Clare Want, Hon.Poppy Appeal Organisers CAROLS at 11.30pm followed by MIDNIGHT MASS CHRISTMAS DAY: MORNING MASS 10.00am “Thank you” to Alan Aston for the playing the last post ALL THE VILLAGE SCHOOLS bring their Year 6 pupils at the War Memorial on Remembrance Sunday. to St Peter’s on the morning of Friday 14th December for their annual Carol Concert. This is always a very happy event affirming out part in the life of all the villages we CHURCH FLOWERS serve. We are so lucky to have a suitable church and a good car park! We shall be decorating the Church for Christmas on Saturday 22nd December from 10 o’clock onwards. THE NEW ROOF IS ON! The new pitched roof for the If anyone would like to come and help, please let me House and Sacristies and the flat roof for the Boiler know. Also if anyone has any greenery to spare, it would House are now almost finished. We have done a great job be much appreciated or a donation in memory of a loved at raising over £34000 plus £26,500 in Interest Free Loans one would be a great help towards the flowers which have and we would like to thank all who have helped us in any way. We still need to find another £20,000. to be bought at this time of the year. Liz Henman 881303 THE EYNSHAM CHILDREN’S CAROL CONCERT is on Tuesday 18th December at 6.30pm. This is open to anyone who would like to come. BURLEIGH FARM THE RADIO OXFORD BIG CHRISTMAS CAROL EVENT is on Wednesday 19th December from 7.30.pm. Traditional Farmhouse You can listen on Radio Oxford or join in the Eynsham Bed and Breakfast Accommodation bit with Christians from all the Eynsham churches at the Swan in Acre End Street. Contact Jane Cook – 01865 881352 Burleigh Farm, Bladon Road, Cassington VARIOUS PEOPLE are becoming full members of the Oxfordshire OX29 4EA Catholic Church during December. Anyone is welcome to become an enquirer, as these people did, without any Visit commitment until we are all certain it is the right thing www.oxfordcity.co.uk/accom/burleighfarm to do. for more information Christmas is a time where we try and think of others. We write cards, give presents and perhaps go to gatherings ST PETER’S CHURCH OF ENGLAND, to drink mulled wine and eat mince pies. It is the time we CASSINGTON remember how God himself thought about us, that is the The Church of St. Peter's is here as a world he created and gave us the best gift of all – that is His Son Jesus. We hope and pray that each of us this fellowship to worship God, build people up Christmas when we give to others will also remember all in Christ and share his love with others that God has done for us. May I also invite you, your families and friends to any of our Church services this Christmas and if I do not get a SERVICES DECEMBER 2007 chance to see you personally – I do hope you have a Peaceful Christmas and joyful New Year. Morey Sunday 2 December 8am Holy Communion(BCP) Revd Roger Aston 10am All Age Worship Ken Johnston
Sunday 9 December 10am Holy Communion Revd Morey Andrews CHRISTMAS AT Sunday 16 December ST PETER’S CHURCH CASSINGTON 8am Holy Communion (BCP) December 23rd 10am Morning Worship 6pm – Carols by Candlelight Revd Andrew Atherstone A traditional carol service with the chance to sing our hearts out to God and remember the whole story of Christmas. Sunday 23 December 10am All Age Benefice Service Christmas Eve Revd Morey Andrews 11.30pm – Midnight Communion First communion of Christmas. 6pm Carols by Candlelight Revd Roger Aston Christmas Day 8.00am - Holy Communion 9.30am – All Age Christmas Service Holy Communion at 9.30am on Tuesdays A short service for all ages on Christmas Morning Young people join our worship for the first 15 celebrating the birth of Jesus. minutes of the 10am service and then go to the school for Sunday Club (3-10) and Soul Living (11+). NEWS FROM ST PETER’S CHURCH, We now also have a crèche for the under 3s. CASSINGTON (Except All Age Worship when everyone stays in church.) On Sunday 4 November members of St Peter’s Church hosted an afternoon celebration entitled Homegroup: Tuesday evening ‘What does it mean to be a hero?”. Revd Morey Andrews led the event which included a quiz, game More information available from: and short talk, followed by a delicious afternoon tea. For those of you who missed this enjoyable occasion Church Office: do look out for our next afternoon celebration on 3 Eynsham Village Hall, Back Lane, Eynsham February 2008! Mon–Thurs 9am–1pm Several members of St Peter’s Church recently went to Tel: 01865 883362 see The Saltmine Theatre Company’s production of email: [email protected] ‘The Cross and the Switchblade’ – a play based on David Wilkerson’s book, at Headington Theatre. Revd Morey Andrews: It was a very memorable performance which told the 45 Acre End Street, Eynsham, Oxon OX29 4PF story of Wilkerson’s desire to help those rejected by Day off: Friday society and see their lives radically transformed Tel: 01865 881323 through his ministry. parish notes
CASSINGTON PARISH COUNCIL REPORTS FROM DISTRICT AND COUNTY COUNCILLORS MEETING Held on 1 November 2007 Cllr Stevens referred to the Flood Defence Fair taking place on 16 (The draft notes below are subject to confirmation by the Parish November, which might prove useful to members of the public. Council on 6 December) DITCHES, DRAINAGE AND FLOODING Councillors Sheila Nelson, Olaf Rock, and Cllr Clive Wilkinson attended. 13 members of the public, Cllrs Frances Pike and Margaret The flooding on 16/17 October at Elms Road, Yarnton Road and Stevens (West Oxon) and the clerk Liz Bickley also attended. Foxwell Court/End was discussed. The culvert under Yarnton Road had blocked on the night of 16 October. It had now been cleared of MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MEETING OF 4 October vegetation. Mr Weston had also cleared a great deal of vegetation from the grill at the culvert on the night. The Environment Agency had Playing Field /Pavilion insurance. A meeting had been held with removed vegetation which it had been clearing upstream. It had not Cassington Sports and Social Club to discuss the insurable risks at the yet completed its work on removing silt and levelling the bed of the Playing Field. The Parish Council’s insurer, Allianz Cornhill would ditch. accept these if the following conditions were met A new grill at 45° acting as a weir set slightly upstream of the culvert The playing field /pavilion would have to be the responsibility of a sub was suggested, to help trap vegetation. committee of the parish council Sandbags were regularly needed at Foxwell Court because it was so The sub committee’s meeting minutes must form part of the minutes low-lying. Community action was recommended by Mr Weston rather of the parish council than relying on local authorities. Meetings of the sub committee must be open to the public in the same The culvert had coped with flood flows in July so the four narrow pipes way as parish council meetings (15” – 18”) were not necessarily a problem, provided there was regular Any accounts of the sub committee must form part of the accounts of cleaning. Residents did not believe that all the pipes had been checked. the parish council and be subject to the PC’s audit. Ditches which were regularly cleared had become lined with grass in The CSSC would probably accept these proposals and the existing some areas and this provided a good surface to minimise debris. Trust and lease would have to be discontinued. The CSSC anticipated A WODC engineer (K Jacks) who visited the site on 17 October had being able to form a sub-committee. Their insurance expired on 3 suggested holding back flood flows in another sump pit and increasing May 2008, except the separate physical injury of players insurance, the playing field ditch bank. The clerk had written to the Environment which could not form part of the Parish Council’s insurance policy. Agency about this. An insurance quote would be obtained. Cllr Rock asked whether anyone knew how the ditch behind Elms Road odd numbers operated: it was known that this are had flooded CORRESPONDENCE about 6 years ago. Mr Partridge said that a bale had become stuck in WODC had introduced a new planning permission application form. the Evenlode near his property, and he had been told it was a Low Maintenance watercourse; however the bale had been removed. Vale of White Horse Council had consulted us as a neighbouring parish, about its Local Development Framework. Oxford Green Belt WODC had asked all parish councils for information on ditch Network was holding its AGM on Monday 19 November. Other items networks and riparian owners. The clerk had prepared a response of correspondence were circulated to Councillors. which was agreed. The historic understanding was that Elms Road ditch was owned by the north-eastern land owners (The Elms, Yew The meeting was suspended to allow Tree House, Mrs S Laing). It was hoped that WODC would take QUESTIONS FROM THE PUBLIC responsibility for a proper review of Cassington’s recent flood problems. Correspondence would be copied to OCC Highways and Maintenance at the play area, stolen truck tyres (recovered by Police), the verge at Pound Lane and Bladon Road railway bridge were raised. the Environment Agency. The hedge at the almshouses was to be dug up and replanted with A meeting had been held at 27 Elms Road. Mr Butson had explained beech /mixed hedging. On behalf of the Trustees, Mr Linnell said that that water in the ditch appeared to flow cleanly through the pipe, often he hoped to minimise any mess but asked for understanding while the in the direction of the pavilion. The ownership of the ditch was work was done. discussed and the Land Registry plan showed that the property (No.
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QUALITY WORK • COMPETITIVE PRICES • DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL LONGLANDS NURSING HOME STAIN PROTECTION • ORIENTAL RUGS • PRE/POST OCCUPANCY CLEANING FLOOD & FIRE CLEAN-UP/DRYING • INSURANCE WORK UNDERTAKEN Pound Lane, Cassington, Oxon 01865 881440 For free estimates or advice, please call: 24 hour care Quality with Commitment Oxford (01865) 726983 Abingdon (01235) 555533 Witney (01993) 868924 the basis of its response. Residents should be made aware of the plan 27) did not extend over the ditch. The council concluded that it and it was agreed to circulate the PC letter inviting residents to write wished to keep the ditch clear and have the fence realigned. individually as well. MAINTENANCE 28 Eynsham Rd Cassington (rear extension and front porch) – no objection, subject to neighbours’ concerns. OCC Highways work on the A40 (footpath extension and surface at bus shelter) had been promised. A mid month planning meeting if required would take place on 14 November at 7 p.m., Cllr Nelson’s home. Graveyard –maintenance in “closed” churchyards was believed to be the responsibility of the Parish Council. The working party had An appeal had been made by Mudie-Bond about the refusal of their removed vegetation in the main churchyard and proposed to continue canopies. as The Ivy League! John Hemingway was thanked for arranging this work. DATE OF NEXT MEETING Mr Hemingway had asked for another session, but in view of other The next meeting will be held on Thursday 6 December 2007 in the commitments the council felt this should wait until next year. Village Hall, at 7.30 p.m. Quotes were needed for a tree – lime or hornbeam – outside the Liz Bickley 01865 884496 [email protected] village hall. The lime tree near the church gate was looking diseased and the THANK YOU to Cassington Nursery for donating bedding plants for chairman agreed to check it. the War Memorial A schedule of maintenance work around the parish was proposed. Volunteer labour / community working parties and paid experts could GRAVEL PLANNING APPLICATION be included. Clerk to prepare a draft. Please note that the application by Hansons is to extract 1.86 million White hatching on the car park surface by the Village Hall front door tonnes of sand and gravel (not 1.86 metric tonnes, as written in the fire exit was required. The clerk would get a quote to have it done Parish Council letter of 9 November) when the Highways were white-lining locally. Accord Enterprises had suggested surface dressing the road from the Licensing Act 2003 Green to the school, next summer, and the clerk was getting a quote. Notice of Application to vary a Premises Licence or Club Premises Certificate TRAFFIC NOTICE is hereby given that Andrew Tagliati Trading as the VAS signs were installed but there was still speeding in the centre of the Chequers Inn applied to West Oxford District Council on 1st village. December 2007 to use premises at 6 The Green, Cassington, Oxon, OX29 4DG to play live and recorded music and live sports of key PLAY AREA events on TV, and to extend the hours in which alcohol is served. Cllr Nelson reported on weeds, nettles and raking the bark. Some fence Any person wishing to object to this application must give notice posts would need replacing in 12 months. More help with weeding in writing stating the nature of objection by 28th December 2007. was needed. Please write to the address below.
FINANCE Head of Community Safety and Licensing West Oxfordshire District Council The council RESOLVED to pay the following bills: Woodgreen Royal British Legion –grass cutting £ 590.00 Witney Oxfordshire Oxon Playing Fields Association subscription £ 30.00 OX28 1NB OALC Training course Risk Assessment (O Rock) £ 20.00 plus VAT Full details of the application may be inspected by appointment at John Hemingway –reimbursement of groundsman £ 100.00 the address above. Please phone (01993) 861636 if you wish to view the complete application. Budget monitoring 2007/08 –we had exceeded our budget in various areas and were likely to finish the year over budget. Budget setting for It is an offence, liable on summary conviction to a fine up to 2008/09 would be done next month, to set a precept. £5,000, under section 158 of the Licensing Act 2003 knowingly or recklessly to make a false statement in or in connection with this Audit for 2006/07 –the auditors had not yet responded formally but it application. was understood that the annual return had been passed, with a comment on the treatment of our investment amount. A bank reconciliation had been done.
PLANNING APPLICATIONS CASSINGTON Parish Council comments had been requested on the following PCSO Helen Keen visited the parish council meeting and applications: updated the residents on her powers and local incidents. There were two incidents this month, which were an attempted theft of Gravel extraction, Cassington Lane Eynsham. wheels from Mudie Bond and a theft of metal from M& M Skips. Cllr Wilkinson reported on the Eynsham public meeting where a Did you see anything? Let us know. number of points had been made in opposition to the planning application. The council agreed with these points which should form THE CHEQUERS INN
6 the Green, Cassington 01865 882620 Christmas Fayre Menu 2007 1st December to 23rd December
First course Gratin of King Prawns and Scallops with English Mustard and Mature Cheddar Cheese
Sautéed Mushrooms, Pinot Grigio, Garlic, Cream, and Parmesan
Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup, Chilli and Coriander Crème Fraîche
Duck and Cherry Pâté with Winter Thyme, served with Warm Crusty Bread
Main Course Roast Turkey, Stock-pot Gravy, served with all the Traditional Accompaniments
Baked Cod Loin, wrapped in Parma Ham with Lemon and Watercress Butter and Spinach Mash
Slow Cooked Lamb Shank, Bacon, Shallots, Red Wine and Rosemary, Roasted Potatoes
Spinach, Mushroom and Pumpkin Cannelloni, Rocket Salad, Garlic Ciabatta
Dessert Christmas Pudding with Brandy Sauce or Fresh Cream
Organic Chocolate Cheesecake with Blackcurrant Coulis
Lemon and Pistachio Crème Brûlée
Passion Fruit and Mango Sorbet
To Finish Coffee and Mince Pie
£22.00 per Person
Booking and Pre-ordering Deposit: We require a deposit of £10 per person to secure your reservation. This deposit is non-refundable and must be enclosed with your completed booking form. Pre-Ordering: Guests are requested to pre-select their menu choices and provide us with the total number of each dish ordered. Please keep a copy for your record and reference. Cassington Women’s Institute Christmas Greetings We were welcomed by president Jane Cook. After the Michael and Ninon Linnell send greetings to all their apologies were given, Margaret Partridge read the record friends in Cassington and Worton and wish them a very of the October meeting, matters arising and the happy Christmas and a peaceful 2008. correspondence were dealt with. The group meeting in Individual cards will not be sent this year but a Yarton was a great success and it will be our turn in donation will be made instead to a Charity. March to host the next group meeting. Pat Evans reminded us about the 400 Club meeting, Monday night the 19th November at Tackley. We have our jumble sale on Sat 17th which we hope will be a great success. CELEBRATION OF EDUCATION IN EYNSHAM January - July 2008 Jane Cook then introduced our speaker Samantha Jessel B.A. Lic.Ac., MBAc.C who is a qualified acupuncturist The programme of events to celebrate the 50th who spoke about chinese medicine as well which is Anniversary of Bartholomew School, 40th Anniversary of Eynsham Primary and all the leaders of education in the about keeping the body, mind and spirit healthy, past, is complete. acupuncture points appear to stimulate biochemical changes which stimulate the body’s natural healing There is an exciting array of events that includes Dance, abilities and promote physical and emotional wellbeing. Drama and Music concerts by the schools and the community; Art and Design projects; a Time Capsule; She also showed us some of her needles which are very Big Band Cheese and Wine evening; Teddy Bears picnic; fine. a Bartholomew Ball and a Gala dinner. The raffle was won by Pat Evans and refreshments were The events are open to everyone in the community and served by Megan Humphris and Jean Bailey. we hope that you will show your support. Our next meeting will be our Christmas one on the 13th Look out for flyers and posters that will be appearing in December this will be a party. Margaret Partridge is your letterboxes and shop windows for full details of organising the entertainment. Jane Cook asked for dates, venues and ticket sales. contributions of mince pies and snacks we will be having For enquiries [email protected] wine and fruit juices to drink so hope all the members will enjoy a social evening. We wish everyone a happy and healthy Christmas. Ann Humphris 01865 880983
Saltbox Music Sessions are now being held at Cassington Playgroup on Tuesday afternoons from 2.30-3pm. These fun sessions are open to all children from 6 months to school age and cost £3 per session per family. Telephone Sara Partridge on 882647 for more information, or just turn up to one of the sessions.
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TALK ON BIODIVERSITY Time to apply for flood grants running out Tom Butterworth of Oxfordshire Nature Conservation Forum Monday 31st December is the deadline date for West (ONCF) gave a talk in Cassington on 1 November. Oxfordshire residents whose homes were flooded in July to return a completed application form for a £250 one-off grant to Biodiversity means the number of species present and the help offset extra costs caused by the flooding. habitats present. It needs protecting because of the impact of human development e.g. intensive agriculture. We need Flood Recovery Grant application forms are available from the biodiversity – economically it is vital, for instance two out of Council’s website, www.westoxon.gov.uk, from council every three mouthfuls of food need insects to pollinate the crop. reception and local visitor information centres, or by telephoning 01993 861000. Cassington Parish Council and other local authorities must have regard to conservation of biodiversity, via its work on the Most vulnerable and needy flood victims can claim Red Parish Plan, planning applications, our own land, and any By- Cross funds laws applicable Councils across Oxfordshire have launched a new grant scheme Wildlife campaigners want to help increase biodiversity by to distribute more than £250,000 in public donations allocated making networks and corridors of important wildlife habitats. through the British Red Cross. One target area for biodiversity is along the Thames between Cassington and Port Meadow. Another is at the north of the The money will go to the most vulnerable victims still suffering parish where there are fragments of ancient woodland. from the aftermath of flood water whether or not they have already claimed a flood recovery or additional hardship grant Cassington is a biodiversity hot spot! Locally, we have the from their council. following important wildlife sites: Application forms are available from West Oxfordshire District International site (Special Area of Conservation and Site of Council on 01993 861000 or by downloading a form from Special Scientific Interest) (SSSI) www.westoxon.gov.uk/redcrossgrant. Cassington Meadow (7 hectares) alongside the River Thames– rare or threatened habitat: Rare lowland hay meadows and fen. Flood Protection Products County Wildlife Sites The National Flood Forum produce a directory of flood protection products and services called Blue Pages with details Cassington South Gravel Pits (15 hectares) south of the A40 - of what a product does, where it can be obtained and contact / wetland, woodland and limestone grassland – birds and plants web site details. A copy of Blue Pages can be downloaded from Smiths Pits Cassington (5 hectares) north of the village – the Council’s website flood information section: dragon flies, water plants www.westoxon.gov.uk/flooding. Burleigh Wood (38 hectares) ancient woodland – notable flora and birds. There is no public access, and of course protected species must not be disturbed. Tom Butterworth has been making contact with land owners to help them manage the areas to maintain and improve wildlife habitats. ONCF can provide support to community groups, e.g. a visit by an ecologist – 50% funded. BBOWT (Wildlife Trust) can give advice – 01865 775476 More info on Natural England’s website www.naturalengland.org.uk and www.natureonthemap.org.uk Have a crime-free Christmas what’s on? Bill Butcher, Crime Prevention Advisor, gives the following seasonal update: As I walked along the aisles in my local CASSINGTON CAFÉ supermarket recently I noticed the advent calendars on sale and realised that the Christmas season gets earlier each year, CASSINGTON VILLAGE HALL not only for the shops but perhaps for the criminals too. Monday November 3rd from 10am to noon. Discretion is the watch word and I advise you not to keep all We look forward to seeing you all then! your cash in one place. Be discreet when getting the money out to pay for the goods, use a purse or wallet and extract the amount you need to tender. I appreciate it’s not everybody’s cup of tea but consider using your debit card rather than carrying too much cash. Remember if you draw cash from the St Peter’s School hole in the wall be aware of people standing too close and for slight abnormalities to the equipment. If in doubt don’t use Christmas Fayre them. Perhaps you could consider the cash back facility offered by many retailers. ARTS • CRAFTS • STALLS • FOOD • LICENSED BAR Having purchased your goods, what do you do with them? I know it’s difficult when you’ve got bag upon bag but do try and Friday 7th December 6.30 – 9.00 pm keep your shopping close to you to avoid having them snatched. Be aware also that there are some people ready to DON’T FORGET – IT’S pick-a-pocket or steal a purse from a bag. One way to avoid IN THE EVENING! being laden down with bags is to make frequent trips back to your car, but this too may cause a problem. If you do have to do this then again, be discreet and as they say in all the best pantomimes “Look behind you!” Are there people loitering, watching what you are doing? When you place items in your car place them in the boot out of sight. Having finished traipsing around the shops you arrive home; what then? Don’t pile all your gifts under a well lit Christmas tree in a window for all to see. Most burglaries are opportunist and if a motivated criminal walks along a street and sees what he believes to be his Santa’s grotto he will try and enter it in order to steal. When Christmas is over and all the presents have been unwrapped don’t leave the cartons out for the dustman. The St Peter’s School Cassington invite you box outside advertises to a thief what is in the adjacent house. If possible break up the box so it fits in the bin or take it to the to join them for their end of term recycling bins away from your home. Christingle Service Perhaps you are planning on giving your child a bike this in St Peter’s Church, Cassington on Christmas: before they head out to enjoy their new present you should take some precautions in case someone else has their Wednesday 19th December at 2pm eye on it too. Marking the bike frame with your postcode can deter the opportunist thief when accompanied with a sticker saying ‘this property is post coded’. Most bike shops will CASSINGTON WI happily do this for you. Invest in a heavy duty bike lock and be THURSDAY 13th DECEMBER 7.45 pm sure to lock it up, even at home. In the last year over half of the THE VILLAGE HALL bicycles stolen in our district were from gardens or sheds. And finally, if you’re lucky enough to be going away over the Christmas festive period set light timers to come on periodically, arrange with neighbours or relatives to have post pushed through the party door, rubbish bins put out and curtains opened and shut. It’s also worth thinking about installing a house alarm system for extra peace of mind. Cassington Bookworms I appear to have given the impression that the modern day Join us on Monday 14th January at 8pm at the house of Margaret Fagin and his gang are lurking at every corner, well actually Bonfiglioli (The Old Manor, Bell Lane, Cassington). that’s humbug; West Oxfordshire is a safe place to live, work The book we have chosen to read is Mr Darcy’s and to shop. All I want you to do is to be aware and take care. Diary by Maya Slater. For the following Most criminals are opportunists and I don’t want you to provide meeting, about 6 weeks later, we have chosen the opportunity. Shantaram by Gregory Davies Roberts. I wish you all a safe, secure and a very happy Christmas. For further information call 01865 880359 A Walk Around Cassington in the 1940s (Part 2) Dorothy Waters
Continuing our walk from last month’s issue, we return to Burleigh Farm on the Bladon Road was farmed by Mr. Bill the village green ... Day, Purwell Farm by Mr. Bert Mobey, Jericho Farm on the Yarnton Road by Mr. Vince Wilkins and Rectory Farm, There was a large garden (where the ‘New House’ now Worton by brothers Tony, Peter and Paul Smith. stands) followed by three more cottages and The Red Lion. ‘The Cottage’ was owned by Miss Emily MacManus who was Downtown Matron of Guy’s Hospital, and her sister, Sally, farmed Turning down Bell Lane on the left was a rick yard followed Orchard Farm situated behind the War Memorial, next to by Lime Cottage where Mrs. Anderson and Mr. Farrow lived. the school. There were two more cottages past there on the To the right was The Tennis orchard. Sometimes Flower and left before Hampton Villa where Mr. & Mrs. Roy Bruce lived. Vegetable, Dog and even Rabbit Shows and Fetes were held in A murder was committed there some years earlier and it is here. Past Lime cottage was Tuckwell’s gravel pit which was reputed to be haunted. A man from Bladon killed a young bordered by six foot high corrugated fencing, known as “the girl and he was later hanged in Oxford Prison. Mrs. Bruce tins”, which extended as far as Acrey Path. The row of nine was convinced the house was haunted and grew quite used cottages were on the right and when several occupants moved to strange noises, cold blasts and candles being blown out. into the new council houses in the late 1940s members of the The vicarage was much larger then and the original Waters family moved in. Next followed a walled field which kitchens and coach houses were demolished in the 1950s. was the back entrance to Glebe Farm and the Vicarage. Mr. Church Fetes were always held in the Vicarage Gardens. George Mobey kept cattle in the field also a donkey, which Next to the Vicarage came Glebe Farm, and the adjoining pulled a little cart for handicapped brother Teddy. field and orchard known as The Tennis which was farmed by On the left past Acrey Path, The Bell public house and a Mr. George Mobey. Opposite Glebe farm was a field and shop were both kept by Mr. Ernie Pancott. Next came orchard which was compulsorily purchased from Miss Clematis Cottage which was thatched. It had a beautiful, Martindale at The Elms in order to build the post war colourful country garden, fronted by a lilac hedge. Mr. Green council houses. This was at the instigation of the Revd. was Miss Martindale’s gardener at The Elms. The cottage was Thomas Brancker, who was our Witney Rural District demolished in the 1960s. Then came The Court which my Councillor. Jim Waters had cultivated this ground for many father bought in 1943. There were six cottages, two of which years for a market gardening round in North Oxford and he were condemned before the war, two more after the war and and my father always referred to it as “Brancker’s Folly”. On we moved in to the two front ones converted into one. They my father’s part this was because there was a belt of clay in were all demolished in the 1970s. that area and he forecast that the houses would flood when Mr. & Mrs. Bushnell and family had moved from The there was exceptionally heavy rain. This did occur and Green into Ivy Dene, the smallholding at the end of Linton remedial work had to be carried out. Lane. They later moved into a house “uptown” and Mr. & Carrying on to the left were four cottages, one of which Mrs. Humphris and family moved in to Ivy Dene. Coming ‘The Laurels’ is the only remaining thatched house in the back along Linton Lane to the left was thatched Grange village. There was a dairy at The Laurels and Lily Waters Cottage which was demolished in the 1950s. Mr. & Mrs. (known to everyone as Auntie Lily) did the local milk round Gillett Smith lived there. Mr. Smith ousted the Revd. from there with a three gallon can on her bicycle. She was Brancker as W.R.D.C. Councillor and was instrumental in also the Sunday School teacher at the local Methodist getting mains “city” water into the village. He was a violinist Chapel. The Waters family came to Cassington in 1905. Jim and had an orchestra which occasionally played at the New Waters, known as “Pop” farmed Acrey Farm on the Yarnton Theatre in Oxford and also gave concerts in the area. Mrs. Road and he would carry the churns of milk from the farm Smith was my music teacher. to The Laurels in a specially adapted “Stop me and buy one” Walls Ice Cream tricycle. To be continued ...
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Village Dates for AVON Village Hall Bookings your diary CALLING Unless shown, events are in the Village Hall Hello! My name is Julie Perrin and I am Cassington’s Avon Lady! December 2007 If you would like a friendly and convenient Monday 3rd December, 10.00 to 12 noon door to door service for all your toiletries, Cassington Café make-up and luxuries, please contact me any For information and to book the Friday 7th December, 6.30 to 9pm weekday morning on 01865 881371 for your Village Hall, contact: Christmas Fayre free catalogue. Nicky Copelin St Peter’s School I will be pleased to add you to my round. The New House, The Green, Cassington Tel: 0784 140319 or 01865 881813 Thursday 13th December, from 7.45 Julie Perrin, Red Lion Email: [email protected] WI Christmas Party Wednesday 19th December, 2pm St Peter’s School Christingle Service For a local St Peter’s Church Visit Cassington BOOK KEEPING and community web site ... Sunday 23rd December, 6pm Carols by Candlelight PAYROLL service, www.cassington.info St Peter’s Church contact Steve Hick FCCA Coming soon ... on 07881402217 Pretty hand-made January 2008 - Film cards Atonement In a variety of mediums using real pressed flowers, 3D images, painting on acetate, February 2008 - Drama (6+ and families) Do you know there is a free The delicious revenge of paper flowers, ribbon and glitter etc. Princess Ruby Slippers service to Cassington Cards made for all ages. Oxford Touring Theatre Company residents that will take you to Special occasions and orders can be made. the doctors’ or hospital? Prices vary from approximately March 2008 – Film £1.80 to £4.50. When did you last see your father? Carol Baldwin, Silver Birches, Yarnton Road Cassington Oxon OX29 4DY Tickets for films and shows from: Tel. No. 01865 881454 Carolyn Hinton (01865 884458) E-mail:[email protected] Nicky Copelin (01865 881813) Amanda Fancourt (01865 880581) This is run by volunteers and is available by phoning: POLICE CONTACTS Pam Turner 880492 or Baby and toddler group Pat Vereker 880693 If you need the Police but it is not an Join us for a drink and a chat emergency please ring 0845 8 505 505 Please give us as much Tuesdays You can use this number to contact the notice as possible Lisa Tyler 880619 new Police Community Support for more information Officers, Helen Keen and Robert Hopping, to let them know what’s going on. Helen and Robert will be regularly patrolling in Cassington. BABYSITTING? ODD JOBS? Eynsham Police Office: (Volunteer Call Johnny (17) or Lydie (15) Horgan Station) 01865 881480 Mon 2 - 4pm. Tues, Wed, Sat 9am - 12noon. Thurs 6 - 8pm noticeboard ... Are you making the most of For local services, ‘for sale’ or similar CAWN? notices, please send copy (by email if This space could have possible) to the usual address. been yours. Appropriate notices are FREE, but will only be placed at our discretion.