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Nativity Festival A Welsh Christmas

Commander Crabb

Oasis - In with the New

Village Trust January 2016 Printed by Sarum Graphics Tel: 01722 324733 24 The Editor January 2016 1 4 Gatcombe Gardens CHURCH AND VILLAGE Fareham FROM THE ORGANISATIONS PO14 3DR Tel 01329 847637 EDITOR’S DESK ST PETER’S CHURCH e-mail: [email protected] Mobile:0775 994 1042 Vicar Revd Susan Allman 01329 847003 Curate Revd Janet Trevithick 01329 847003 A new year and a new beginning at least for the members of Titchfield Evangelical Church. As Church Office Open: Mon-Thurs 9 - 12 Pastor Bob Rule reports (page 6) plans for refurbishment of the outside of the Chapel building have e-mail: [email protected] 01329 847003 been approved as well as changes to the interior resulting in a smart new look for the church. Revd Website www.stpetertitchfield.org.uk Susan Allman (page 2) writes of a New Year resolution based on the maxim “live, work and pray” Readers Mr Roger Bryant, 99 Frosthole Crescent, Fareham 01329 230129 which has been adopted by the Diocese of Portsmouth and which she hopes will inform the plans Churchwarden Mrs Kay Dunleavy , 21 Mallory Crescent, Fareham, PO16 7QH 01329 312552 for St Peter’s Home Groups. P.C.C.Secretary Mrs Jane Slaymaker, 42 Woodbourne Close, Fareham, PO15 5QQ 01329 847003 Treasurer Mrs Sandra Pereira c/o Church Office 01329 847003 Although Christmas is behind us now we look back at the highly successful Nativity Festival which Stewardship Recorder Mr David Mugford, 19, The Oakes, Stubbington 01329 667783 was held in St Peter’s (page 12/13) which demonstrated the ingenuity of the creators of the model Organist Mr Keith Miller, c/o Church Office 01489 579160 scenes and in his story “A Child’s Christmas in Wales” (page 10/11) John Hiett evokes some fond memories of a simpler time in the Welsh valleys before the Second World War. Capt. of the Tower (Bells) Mr Lyndon Hatfield, 5 Garstons Road, Titchfield PO144EJ 01329 849921 Friends of St Peter’s Mrs Frances Knight - The Old Vicarage,Church Street 01329 846832 Our special features this month include the story of the famous Navy diver Commander Lionel Website www.friends-of-st-peters.org Crabb and the enduring mystery of his disappearance 60 years ago (page 14); the story of a life changing moment for Barbara Le Sueur (page 9) and the controversy over the banning of a TITCHFIELD VILLAGE promotional film in cinemas produced by the Church of England (page 19). Evangelical Church Mr Bob Rule 02392 585003 Primary School Reception 01329 843322 News of the return of TACT and the continuing success of the youth group Oasis (page 4) plus a report from the recent meeting of the Village Trust (page 20) are highlights of our news features for Parish Room Mrs Grace Clark - for bookings 01329 842085 this month. Earl of S’ton Trust Mrs Sue Boden, 01329 513294 Village Trust Mr Nick Girdler 01329 847930 Titchfield News wishes all readers, contributors, advertisers and distributors a Very Happy and Community Centre Manager (Dinah Lloyd) 01329 842933 Peaceful New Year. Brian Patten Jubilee Surgery Reception 01329 844220 Brownies Ms Gina Dungworth 07778 103672 Rainbows Mrs Jane Anderson 01489 886724 CONTENTS Bonfire Boys Message Line 07768 283725 PAGE 2 Revd Susan Allman - “Live, Pray, Serve” Speedwatch Mr Chris Walker 01329 847328 3 News from St Peter’s Titchfield Luncheon Club Mr Ken Moores 01329 315615 4 Return of TACT/Oasis - In with the New 5 Titchfield Ablaze/Christmas at the Community Centre TITCHFIELD NEWS 6 Chapel Page - “See, I am doing a new thing!” EDITOR 7 Titchfield Evangelical Church - Services/Muslim community condemns attacks Mr Brian Patten 4 Gatcombe Gardens, Fareham , PO14 3DR 01329 847637 8 Friends of St Peter’s/Obituary e- mail: [email protected] 9 A life changing moment for Barbara/Club news 10/11 A Child’s Christmas in Wales Distribution Mr Brian Williams, 3 County Gardens,Fareham PO14 3JA 01329 516769 12/13 St Peter’s Nativity Festival 2015 Advertising Mr David Mugford, 19, The Oakes, Stubbington 01329 667783 14 Titchfield History Society - Cdr Crabb. What really happened? 15 Gardeners’ Club/School choir sings for FTN YOUR LOCAL TITCHFIELD COUNCILLORS 16 Titchfield Film Nights/Titchfield Festival Theatre HAMPSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL 17 Titchfield Community Centre - Weekly Diary Mr Geoff Hockley 27 Heath Lawns, Catisfield, PO15 5QB 01329 287365 18 Community Centre - Contacts for Groups and Clubs FAREHAM BOROUGH COUNCIL 19 Star Wars and the Lord’s Prayer Mrs Connie Hockley 27 Heath Lawns, Catisfield, PO15 5QB 01329 287365 20 Titchfield Village Trust - A Bridge too Far Ms Tiffany Harper 20 Hampton Grove, Catisfield, PO15 5NL 01329 844074 21 The lady who gave us Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple 22 St Peter’s Church - Sunday Services for January 23 From the Registers/Regular activities at St Peter’s 24 Church and Village Organisations Front cover: East Street, Titchfield by Joyce Smith Opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily represent the views of the Parochial Church Council. Copy for February 2016 issue to Editor by Monday 18th January please

2 St Peter's Church, Titchfield 23 Live, Pray, Serve www.stpetertitchfield.org.uk by The Revd Susan Allman At St Peter’s we have a network of evening and daytime home groups.We learn together about the Christian faith, discuss, laugh and pray together, as we try to become better disciples.New members are always welcome. Dear Friends, could be to work out what this means for us and put it into practice. If you would like to join a home group, or find out more about them, As the old year drew to a close it was please contact Stella Warne 01329 847338 or Kay Dunleavy 01329 312552. troubling to learn that nearly half the We already have a network of home population describes itself as non- groups in our parish to help us do that. If religious. I suspect that description you would like to know more about how needs a little unpacking. People membership of a home group can help sometimes tell me that they aren’t you grow in your faith and become more Next Messy Church at St Peter’s: religious, by which they usually mean confident in your discipleship, you are Monday 25th January from 3.30 - 5.45 pm they do not attend church services. This warmly invited to join us for afternoon does not, however, mean that they do not tea on Sunday 10th January from 4pm to believe in God or want prayers said and 5.30pm in the Parish Rooms. We shall hymns sung at the funeral of a loved explain what is involved and some of one; far from it. At such times people those who are already members will often turn to the church for help and share some of their experiences. Next Café Connect in the Parish Room direction. Sunday 17th January Then, on the morning of Saturday 30th 10.45 am - 12.30pm What I find particularly sinister about January, starting at 9.30am, Revd. Dr. this is the inference that the Christian Ruth Tuschling, Spirituality Advisor to faith which is an integral part of our the Diocese, will be running a Prayer constitution is no longer relevant to our Workshop in the Chapter Room for public life and the way in which our those who lead prayers in church and in From the Registers children are educated. other settings, such as small groups. If this is a ministry you might like to be Baptisms If the church is squeezed out to the involved with, please come along. 15th November Aoife Rose Nicola Leslie margins there is an increased danger that Harry Robert Proctor people will turn, often when they are at Finally, if you would like to learn more their most vulnerable, to self-styled about the call to live, pray, serve and Funerals spiritual practitioners who are how this might look in practical terms, 24th November Tony Sheppard (75) unregulated and whose theological there will be a Deanery Special Meeting 26th November Derrick Ford (79) awareness can range from the random to facilitated by a team from the Diocese of 9th December Ann Shorney the downright dangerous. Portsmouth at 7.30 pm on January 14th at Holy Rood Church, Stubbington. All of this must be a wake-up call for us in the church; a reminder of how serious There is no need to book ahead for any and intentional our discipleship needs to of the above events and no obligation to be, if we are to minister to the spiritual sign up to anything; just turn up on the Regular activities at St Peter’s Church needs that are all around us and day and be assured of a warm welcome. introduce the next generation to the Bell Ringing Practice Teddy Bear Praise Wishing you a very happy, blessed and possibility of an encounter with God. Wednesday 7.30pm - 9.00 Wednesday in term time 2pm - 3pm peaceful New Year, In the Diocese of Portsmouth we have Choir Practice adopted the following maxim: live, pray, With my love and prayers, Morning Prayer Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 8.15am Thursday 7pm serve. Maybe our New Year’s resolution Susan 22 News from St Peter’s 3 St Peter's Church, Titchfield Calling all and aspiring Traidcraft Church Street St Peter’s Home Group members Sunday 7th February Titchfield Thank you very much to everyone Hampshire Tea on who has supported us throughout PO14 4AG. the 10th the year. We’ve had record sales... Vicar: Revd Susan Allman especially of socks! We’ll be Curate: Revd Janet Trevithick Come and meet the other groups, chat taking a break in January but the about what they have been doing and stalls will be back in church as how they have got on with the material usual at 8 and 10am and look we have been studying, and discuss the forward to seeing you again then. Sunday Services for January future. You can shop online: 3rd January Epiphany www.thefairtradeshop.org.uk 8.00am Holy Communion (1662) If you don’t currently belong to a home 10.00am Family Service group but are thinking it might be for you, come and find out what it is all 10th January The Baptism of Christ about. Lost property 8.00am Holy Communion (1662) There are some items of lost 10.00am Parish Communion Sunday 10th January 2016 from property at the back of church. 4.00 pm – 5.30 pm in the Parish Room Please check to see if anything 17th January The Second Sunday of Epiphany for tea and cake. belongs to you. 8.00am Holy Communion (1662) 10.00am Parish Communion

24th January The Third Sunday of Epiphany Yellow Gift Aid Envelopes Local Ministry Team Thank you for using the Gift Aid 8.00am Holy Communion (1662) We are delighted that Anna Sketchley 10.00am Parish Communion Envelopes which allow us to and Peter Gordon have agreed to join the increase the value of our 31st January Candlemas Local Ministry Team. Our thanks and giving. Please remember to fill in 8.00am Holy Communion (1662) appreciation go to Trevor Streten, Kay your name, address and post code 10.00am Parish Communion Dunleavy and Penny Murrells who are so that we can claim the extra stepping down after completing their money. February three year term. Cheques made payable to 7th February The Last Sunday after Epiphany ‘PCC Titchfield’. 8.00am Holy Communion (1662) 10.00am Family Service Basics Bank Thank you for all your recent Bag-a-Bra: This is an ongoing contributions, they are much appreciated collection to support Hampshire & by the Bank. They could also put I.O.W. Air Ambulance’s appeal for to good use, any unwanted hats, gloves unwanted bras which are recycled Do you know anyone who is ill or in any distress and scarves that you may have. Just drop for sale in West Africa. Please and who needs the support of prayer? them into the Basics Bank box at the place any bras in the pink bag ST PETER’S PRAYERLINE - back of church any time ready for the please contact next collection. Charles Timberlake - 01329 845265 or Doreen White 01329 843544 4 Titchfield & District News Feature 21

The lady who gave us Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple TACT return to the Parish Oasis – in with the New! Dame Agatha Christie, the crime novelist She was baptised into the Church of Room for another show who is probably as widely known as any England and kept a copy of The Imitation TACT are back.... Titchfield Arts Susie Higgs has left us after 4 ½ modern writer in English, died 40 years of Christ at her bedside – as did her Community Theatre is looking years as Senior Youth Worker, write ago, on 12th January 1976. Not least amateur sleuth, Jane Marple. Her outlook forward to introducing Peter and Julia Mills of the Oasis among her achievements is her play The was conservative. “SpecTACTular,” an evening of Steering Committee. Mousetrap, still in the West End after comedy, theatre and music, more than 26,000 performances. In its Born Agatha Miller in Devon in 1890, Oasis thrived under her guidance presented in their usual cabaret style 64th year, it is the longest running show she lost her father at the age of 11 and and we are so grateful for her hard of entertainment. Bring your own of any kind in the world. went to finishing school in Paris. She work and permanent cheerfulness. married Archibald Christie, an aviator, in supper and wine and come and join We are delighted to welcome Tina, But most people encounter Dame Agatha 1914, but by 1926 he wanted a divorce them for the evening who together with Becky will run as author of one of her many detective and Agatha disappeared, abandoning her the Tuesday evenings. Cheryl now novels, often featuring either Hercule car on a cliff. She was found 11 days moves to lead worker on Thursdays, Poirot or Miss Marple. She also wrote a later at a Harrogate hotel, registered series of six romance novels under the under the name of her husband’s Rev’d Bill Day working with the older group Rev’d Bill Day Vicar of Titchfield & Chairman of pseudonym Mary Westmacott, and 19 mistress. Titchfield Arts and Communit y Theatre including school leavers. plays. Thirty of her detective novels were Vicar of Titchfield & Chairman of turned into films, and she wrote over 80 The couple divorced in 1928 and Agatha Both evenings are popular, with books in all. took to travelling. She met her second Titchfield Arts and Community Theatre membership rising currently. THE NELSON TOUCH husband, archaeologist Max Mallowan, a Courage through the ages Her detective novels have been described big fan of hers and considerably younger, TACT is a theatre company which was formed under the wing of We could not manage without our as both moral and theological, in that at a dig site in Ur. She married him in St. Peter’s Church in Titchfield and the Bonfire Boys. In 2001 its specific The show dates are Thursday 18th volunteers. Lisa in particular is task was to produce the highly successful Passion Play, ‘Man born to be guilt and justice are at their core. It has 1930 and they remained happily married. King’ which was performed to an audience of around 2000 in the Square Friday 19th and Saturday 20th brilliant and our Young Workers also been pointed out that hers was a His work inspired many of her in Titchfield on Good Friday 2002. The Nelson Touch is the company’s February 2016. have contributed magnificently – profoundly Christian world. subsequent plots. first production since then. Our Director, Heather Carling, also directed the Passion Play and some of the original cast are in this latest production thank you Megan, Alice, Ryan and together with some new ‘acting blood’. This continues one of the Ticket prices are £10.00 per head Lee. Our police colleagues remain fundamental aims of the Company which is to bring out and nurture and canProudly be purchased presents from Louise THE NELSON TOUCH dramatic talent. most supportive and we welcome Ashton on 01329 842441 from the their visits on club nights. Hold Your Party The Nelson Touch provides a glimpse into the lives of some of our 9th January onwards. All monies Courage through the ages country's heroes through drama, verse, dance and humour, ending with the greatest of them all, Admiral Lord Nelson. In this country we are not raised are donated to local charities. Fund raising continues in earnest at very good at celebrating our heroes, usually preferring to tarnish their for the next financial year. Thank TACT is a theatre company which was formed under the wing of reputations rather than giving them a good polish. We in TACT believe Titchfield Community Centre that nationally our ‘heroes’ have made an enormous contribution not only Doors will open at 7pm and curtain you everyone, including the St. Peter’s Church in Titchfield and the Bonfire Boys. In 2001 its specific to the life of this country but far beyond its confines. The central theme up is at 7.30. Management Committee of the is courage. Community Centre, for your task was to produce the highly successful Passion Play, ‘Man born to be All of us can be brave on occasion, but the people we celebrate had to TACT look forward to entertaining support of our local youth club. 01329 842933 persevere with their courage and didn’t walk away – ever. Several of King’ which was performed to an audience of around 2000 in the Square them of course paid with their lives, sometimes in the most awful of you all again. ways. What drove them on and fired up their courage? Difficult to say, compassion, conviction, national pride, duty – you could add many more Titchfield Community Centre is a great venue for all kinds titchfi[email protected] in Titchfield on Good Friday 2002. The Nelson Touch is the company’s reasons. But the one thing that they all had in common was a Thursday 13th October to commitment to Christianity and a deep and abiding faith. Perhaps this is of activities and celebrations ! the fuel that lit the fires of their courage, and, if we allow it, may light up SundayWe 16th will beOctober happy to help make your experience here a good one. first production since then. Our Director, Heather Carling, also directed our own lives too, for those specific times when we face those special titchfieldcommunitycentre.weebly.com challenges. Whatever2005 your age, ability and interests there is something here for YOU ! the Passion Play and some of the original cast are in this latest production Many different groups meet here on a regular basis - why not join in? See page 17 & 18 for weekly programme and contacts Reg Charity 1109062 In aid of together with some new ‘acting blood’. This continues one of the Supported by : Hornpipe Theatre Company Alzheimer’s Society fundamental aims of the Company which is to bring out and nurture and Dementia care and research ProudlyPortsmouth and presentsDistrict Branch dramatic talent. Souvenir Programme £1

The Nelson Touch provides a glimpse into the lives of some of our country's heroes through drama, verse, dance and humour, ending with the greatest of them all, Admiral Lord Nelson. In this country we are not very good at celebrating our heroes, usually preferring to tarnish their reputations rather than giving them a good polish. We in TACT believe that nationally our ‘heroes’ have made an enormous contribution not only to the life of this country but far beyond its confines. The central theme is courage.

All of us can be brave on occasion, but the people we celebrate had to persevere with their courage and didn’t walk away – ever. Several of them of course paid with their lives, sometimes in the most awful of ways. What drove them on and fired up their courage? Difficult to say, compassion, conviction, national pride, duty – you could add many more reasons. But the one thing that they all had in common was a Thursday 13th October to commitment to Christianity and a deep and abiding faith. Perhaps this is the fuel that lit the fires of their courage, and, if we allow it, may light up Sunday 16th October our own lives too, for those specific times when we face those special challenges. 2005

In aid of Supported by : Hornpipe Theatre Company Alzheimer’s Society and Dementia care and research Portsmouth and District Branch Souvenir Programme £1 Titchfield & District News 5 20 Titchfield Village Trust

Titchfield Ablaze A bridge too far? Every year Titchfield celebrates Christmas with a blaze of light as local residents display a Christmas tree in a bracket fixed The guest speakers at the General attending with an almost to the outside of their houses and business Meeting of the Titchfield Village unanimous ‘No’. premises. Trust last month were Ross and Jill Underwood, the joint authors of Cllr Geoff Hockley gave a report A group of local volunteers co-ordinate the the Titchfield Spirit project which and update on the progress of the tree display and the trees are delivered to was recently completed with the work on the Titchfield Canal paths the village so they can be collected locally. The helpers prepare the bottom of the trees launch of “Village Voices” the and expressed his gratitude to so that they fit the brackets. written record of life in Titchfield Amey the construction company between 1914 and 1964. The who had undertaken the work Tessa Short, Grace Clark and Annette The “Tree” team gets to work inspiration for the work came from which had been considered DeVoil, who organise the ordering and the Titchfield Tapestries hanging in ‘adequate’ by the Environment distribution of the trees, would like to thank everyone for participating in ‘Titchfield the Parish Room and they Agency. Amey is currently Ablaze’. Titchfield looked amazing and very festive with all the Christmas trees lit up. described the process as a working free of charge in clearing They would especially like to thank the team of helpers that turned up on the Saturday to community effort. the canal in the area below Bridge trim trees, put on lights, carry out deliveries and go up ladders. Street to the Haven. Reports on local planning issues Christmas in Titchfleld at the revealed that the Care Home is The chairman reported that the Community Centre COME AND SING: going ahead and that the Tithe changes to the A27 road to make it report by Phil Burner Barn had been refused planning a four-lane dual carriageway, will Christmas in Titchfield got off to a flying permission to hold weddings technically cut the historical parts start with an afternoon of festive fun at the Medleys from the Musicals throughout the year as neighbours of the village in two. He suggested Community Centre last month. Saturday 30th January, 2016 were complaining about the noise. a footbridge over the A27 would Church of St. Nicholas, Wickham enable villagers to more easily Visitors to the event were able to browse A committee is exploring the access the recreation ground, the the many stalls and pick up some seasonal Conductor: David Burgess problem of traffic calming in the new Country Park, the Tithe Barn gifts, decorations and food. Many of the village and members are and the Abbey. This suggestion stands had demonstrations where you Registration and score hire from investigating such matters as received a mixed response with could learn how to make those extra 3.30pm special Christmas presents and decorations. Rehearsal from 4pm location of 20mph signs; removal some opposition to the idea. of chicanes in South Street; car Whilst enjoying a cup of tea and mince pie Audience welcome at Public Performance parks and parking and litter and The next meeting of the Village guests were entertained by members of the at 7.00pm litter bins. Bus shelters in The Trust will be on Tuesday 8th Singers: £8 Titchfield Community Choir and also the Score hire: £2 Square were also discussed and a March. Members were reminded Lockerley Silver Band. Audience: £5 request to erect one on the west that as the Treasurer had tendered Community Centre Vice Chairman, Ann side was rejected by members his resignation a replacement will Whyntie said, "We were delighted to [Prices include a refreshing glass after the be sought. welcome so many people including stall performance] holders, Choir and Band to the Centre for a festive afternoon in our newly redecorated Main Hall. A true community To register contact: 01329 833299 event." 6 Titchfield Star Wars and the Lord’s Prayer 19 Evangelical Church Star Wars movies, from 1977 to the present, dramatise the conflict between The company selling the cinema good and evil. Drawing on themes from advertising space, Digital Cinema Media, “See, I am doing a new thing!” various religions and locating fictional actually said they would give a discount of by Acting Pastor Bob Rule events in an imaginary galaxy ‘long ago 55% on their standard advertising rate. and far away’, Star Wars feature alien Months later, with no explanation for their creatures, robots and the now famous Jedi change of mind, they issued rules which who represent good, versus the Sith who would exclude religious advertising on the As we come to hopefully will are evil. An omnipresent energy, known as grounds that it might offend. the end of one attract the good the ‘’ is said to bind the galaxy News of this extraordinary ban hit the UK year and the folk of together. headlines, then went round the world. beginning of a Titchfield to Within days, more than a million people new year our pop in and see Some people are so hooked on Star Wars had seen the video on YouTube and the minds tend to what else is that a number actually declare their religion justpray and other websites. think of new new. to be ‘Jedi’. 176,632 people in England and Wales did that on their 2011 Census Director of Communications for the things. It is time But of course forms. Archbishops’ Council of the Church of to put the new England, the Revd Arun Arora, said: “the calendar up, time it is one thing So, when the latest in the Star Wars pop- Church of England is absolutely full of to get the new to smarten up culture series was scheduled for screening people like me who make mistakes, but diary out and of the outside of just before Christmas last year, it offered an who have a change of heart or who are led course for many of the building, ideal opportunity to remind cinema to repentance and forgiveness. I hope the us it is time to start but it is more audiences of the importance of prayer in next step would be for the people who run that new diet, you know the one important to look at what is inside. the real world, by drawing their attention to DCM: Odeon, Vue and Cineworld, to show that will let you lose three stone in It was Jesus who reminded the a brand new website www.justpray.co.uk. the strength of leadership, to recognise a week – yes, sure! Pharisees that cleaning up the they’ve made a mistake, have a change of outside was not enough; it was A one-minute advertisement was made by heart and reconsider their decision”. At the start of the year we at what was inside that was more the Church of England, with a wide range Titchfield Evangelical Church are important. of people simply saying or singing the Unknown opponents then attempted to words of the Lord’s Prayer, leading to the bring down the website and fill it with looking forward to new things. As That is why we look to our Lord to website. The video was paid for by the spam messages. They failed. So in spite of soon as the weather is suitable we Allchurches Trust and approved by the everything, people who want to pray can will begin the refurbishment of the come and do as He promised British Board of Film Classification. still learn the ‘Our Father’ by visiting outside of the building. through the prophet Isaiah “See, I www.justpray.co.uk. am doing a new thing!” and we are After many meetings with the local praying that this will be the case. authorities we can now go ahead That in each of us a new love for with a job that is long overdue. At God and a new desire to serve Him January Titchfield Diary the same time we will be replacing with all our heart will spring up 7th Titchfield Moviola - St Margaret’s Arts - 7pm 10th Home Group Tea - Parish Room - 3.00pm- 5.30pm the kitchen in the Upper Room and within our community. 12th Titchfield Abbey WI - Community Centre - 9.30am generally making this room into an 13th - 23rd Titchfield Festival Theatre - St Margaret’s Arts - 7.30pm attractive place to meet for tea and As we begin the year may that be 19th Titchfield History Society - Community Centre - 7.30pm coffee etc. the prayer of all of us that God will 17th Café Connect - Parish Room - 10.45am - 12.30pm do a new thing in me. May God 25th Messy Church - St Peter’s Church - 3.30pm When all is done we should have a grant you a wonderful New Year. 25th Titchfield WI - Parish Room - 7.30pm smart new look to the church which 18 Titchfield Evangelical Church 7 COMMUNITY CENTRE - CONTACTS FOR GROUPS & CLUBS Art Show Mr Mark Pearce 07962 200208 Calendar of events in Ballroom Dance Classes Mr James Taplin 01489 584502 Bonfire Boys Hotline 07768 283725 January Bowling Club Mr Gary Rathke 01329 847795 Sunday morning services at 10.30am Boxing Club Mr Ken Charman 01489 581623 (meet for prayer from 10.00-10.15am) Bridge Club Mr Derek Winslow 01489 505077 Bright Sparks Pre-School Mrs Sally Eland 07890 087897 Card Making Ms Amanda Fowler 07890 426945 Services in January Canine Partners Ms Elaine Potter 01730 716017 3rd January Praise and Testimony Service Dog Training Mr Brian Eldridge 02380 777916 10th January Pastor Bob will present the Church Text for 2016 FAREGOS - Home Education Mrs Dee McGruer 07748 498841 17th January Pastor Bob - A new series on “Look through Luke” Fareham Bee Keepers Association Ms Sandra Hearn 07590 020012 24th January Pastor John Griffith French Conversation Mr Peter Davis 01329 284417 31st January Pastor Bob will lead Gardeners’ Club Miss Wendy Nicholson 01329 842537 History Society Mrs Marilyn Wilton-Smith 01329 843822 Open Church on Tuesday mornings at 10.00am to 11.45am Crofton Judo Club Peter Powell 07877 629135 We are open for coffee, tea and biscuits for anyone who would like to call in for or Les Barnes 07896 582853 an informal chat. Karate (KOKB) Mr Chris Bird 07792 666932 www.titchfield.org.uk Kung Fu & Kick-Boxing Mr Omar El-Kilany 07575 991855 telephone 01329 845772 Ladies Badminton Mrs Sylvia Lamb 01489 584948 e-mail: titchfi[email protected] NCT Bumps and Babes Ms Mary-Kate Smith 0844 2436130 Oaklands Contact TCA office 01329 842933 Oasis Youth Centre Mr Peter Mills 01329 317912 Local Muslim Community Condemns Paris attacks Rugby Tots Ms Helen Wood 0845 3133244 78 Club Mr Edward Meads 01489 589689 We have once again witnessed We urge all communities to stand Slimming World Ms Colette May-Matthews 07727 872528 outrageous attacks in Beirut in Paris. We together to oppose this despicable Scouts inc Beavers and Cubs Mrs Louise Mclean 01329 842942 are deeply shocked and profoundly scenario with love and compassion. Let Solent Fine Arts Soc. (NADFAS) Mrs Louise Ashton 01329 842441 saddened at these appalling acts of terror us continue to work towards establishing Solent School of Dance/Drama Mr Martin Young 01329 665801 and violence perpetrated against innocent peace and harmony in the community or Miss Kirsten Young 01329 223104 civilians. Our thoughts and prayers are and defy the terrorists whose only aim is Southern Steppers Mrs Jan Harris 01329 288360 Sugarpush Tea Dance Miss Simone Brown 07944 255574 for those killed or injured and their to divide us. Let us all, as people of faiths Tai-Chi Mr Andrew Austin 01329 510204 families; especially for our neighbours, and none, stand firm with compassion Tea Pot Crafters Ms D Philpot 01329 286999 the people of France. and solidarity Tea Dances Mrs Pauline Steel 01329 234562 Titchfield Abbey W.I. Ms Rosemary Mitchell 01329 319388 There is absolutely no justification for Our thoughts, prayers and solidarity go to Titchfield Auctions Mrs Isobel Farmer 07720 023950 such carnage whatsoever. As Muslims we the families of the victims and the people Titchfield Luncheon Club Mr Kenneth Moore 01329 315615 are indeed immensely hurt by such of France. Titchfield Photographic Group Mr Phil Burner 07774 021958 violence. Any claim of committing acts The signatories to the statement are: WordWrights Ms Susan Whitehead 01489 578738 of violence in the name of any faith is · Mufti Liakoth Ali, Imam of Portsmouth illegitimate. Let it be known that such Muslim Academy, Portsmouth brutality and cold blooded murder is · Mujahid Miah, Chairman, Jamia barbaric, abominable and is definitely Mosque, Portsmouth contradicting the pristine teachings of · Mohammed Shamas Ahmed, Chairman, religion of Islam. One of the fundamental Central Mosque, Portsmouth Titchfield on the web values of Islam is peace.The Islamic faith · Ali Ibrahimi, Chairman, Portsmouth www.welcometotitchfield.co.uk is a peaceful religion and the Noble Afghan Community www.stpetertitchfield.org.uk Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) · Sheikh Fazle Abbas Datoo, Imam of Al www.friends-of-st-peters.org was sent as a mercy for the universe. The Mahdi Centre, Wessex Jamaat perpetrators do not represent Islam or Community. Muslims; their views are perverse and self-serving. 8 Titchfield Community Association 17 Titchfield News Mill Street, Titchfield, PO14 4AB Weekly tel: 01329 842933 fax: 01329 842407 Obituary Programme e-mail: titchfi[email protected]

Friends of St Peter’s Christine Bartlett Sunday See page 18 for Christine Bartlett has died at the Titchfield Auctions – Viewing 5.30-6.30pm names and telephone age of 90 after a fall on a cruise (The Garage) Auction 6.30pm numbers of contacts The Great Winter Fuel Allowance ship in Norway from which she Sugar Push Tea Dance 1.00pm - 6.30pm for the Groups and dilemma is solved! never fully recovered. She was Clubs listed on by John Hiett born in , educated at this page For those who receive but do not Bedales, joined the Wrens and Monday Tuesday need the winter fuel allowance, served at Bletchley Park towards Bright Sparks Pre-School* 9.15 – 1.30pm Bright Sparks Pre-School* 9.15 – 1.30pm and don't want to give it back to the end of WW2 for which she Tai Chi 12.00 – 2.00pm Titchfield Abbey W.I. (2nd) 9.30 – 2.00pm the government, help is at hand. received a medal. Oaklands Day Centre 1.30 – 7.00pm N.A.D.F.A.S (3rd) 10.00 – 12.30pm Bridge Club 7.00 – 10.30pm Tea Dance 1.30 –4.00pm There is a special fund at the After marrying Lt Cdr John Ballroom Dancing 6.15 - 10.00pm Beavers* 5.30 - 7.00pm Friends of St. Peter's, already Bartlett they moved to 29 The Square, Titchfield which was her Southern Steppers 7.30 - 9.30pm Southern Steppers 7.00 - 9.30pm under way. You can give all or home for 30 years between foreign BOKB 7.00 - 9.00pm Karate 7.00 – 9.00pm part of your fuel allowance in postings. A keen supporter of Solent School of Dance* 6.00 - 8.00pm History Society (3rd) Sept – May 7.30 –10.00pm complete anonymity. No-one will Titchfield WI, she held yoga Lindy Hop 8.00 - 11.00pm French Conversation (1st & 3rd) 7.30 - 9.00pm know that you have contributed lessons in the community centre, Rugby Tots* 10.30 - 12.30pm except you: the Treasurer is sworn taught Chinese painting at Perform* 3.30 - 6.00pm to secrecy. He won't even make a Fareham Technical College and Oasis 7.00 - 8.30pm note of the donor when he banks was secretary for The Village Trust Wednesday Slimming World 4.30 - 9.00pm the cheques. Should your in 1972. She loved her garden and Bright Sparks Pre-School* 9.15 - 1.30pm Better Body Fitness 8.30 - 10.30pm circumstances change and you are her claim to fame is that the Canine Partners 1.00pm - 3.00pm unable to give next year no-one Market Hall once formed her Titchfield Luncheon Club 10.30 – 2.00pm garden wall, but was happy to see will know. But you will have Southern Steppers 1.30 – 3.30pm it moved to Singleton and make Thursday salved your conscience. room for the doctors surgery to be Teapot Crafters 2.30 - 4.30pm Bright Sparks Pre-School* 9.15 – 1.30pm built. Solent School of Dance 7.00 – 9.00pm FAREGOS* 9.30 - 1.30pm Simply write a cheque for £100, Sea Scouts* 7.00 - 9.00pm Ladies Badminton* 10.30 – 12.30pm £200 or £300 payable to Friends John died in 1970 but she stayed Tai Chi 7.00 – 9.00pm Word Wrights (1st and 3rd) 1.30 – 3.30pm of St . Peter's and send it to the in the house in Titchfield until Bridge Club 7.00 – 10.30pm Bowling Club (Oct-April) 2.00 – 5.00pm Treasurer, Nick Wise at 7 Church 1983 when she married James Solent Dog Training Group 7.15 – 10.00pm Kick Boxing/Kung Fu/Tai Chi 7.00 – 9.45pm Street Titchfield PO14 4AG Brander in St Peter’s, and they Gardeners’ Club (1st) 7.30 –10.00pm Ballroom Dance Classes 5.15 - 10.30pm moved to his home in Sevenoaks Cubs 6.30 - 8.00pm At the next AGM the Friends will Kent where she was happy for 32 Southern Steppers 7.30 -9.30pm years. announce how much money has Photographic Group 7.30- 9.30pm Friday been received from Winter Fuel Christine had three sons, Oasis 7.00 - 9.00pm NCT Bumps & Babies 10.00 - 12 noon payments - but not who the donors Christopher, Matthew and James, were. Card Making 9.30am - 12.30pm six grandchildren, and two great Crofton Judo Club 6.30pm - 9.30pm Saturday grandchildren. Toddler Sense 9.00 - 12.30pm Solent School of Dance 9.30am - 12.00pm Available for Functions Slimming World 8.30am - 12.30pm Tai Chi 1.00pm - 4.00pm Available for Functions *TermTime only Titchfield News 9 16 Titchfield Film Nights Titchfield Film Night - at The Queen’s Head.. The High St...Titchfield A life Titchfield Abbey WI Please note the change of venue for this film....we need your support changing The first meeting of 2016 of Thursday 7th January – ‘The Legend of Barney Thomson’. moment for Titchfield Abbey W.I. will be held on Tuesday 12th January, starting A comedy thriller directed by Scottish actor Robert Carlyle Barbara at who stars as Barney Thomson, an awkward, diffident, Glasgow at 9.30am at Titchfield Community Week of Centre; visitors are always barber, who lives a life of desperate mediocrity, his Accompanied uninteresting life is about to go from 0 to 60 in five seconds, as welcome to group meetings which he enters the grotesque and comically absurd world of the Prayer are held on the second Tuesday of serial killer. As he makes ham-fisted attempts to cover his each month, always starting at tracks, he finds himself on the run from the bearish Detective I have just 9.30am. Inspector Holdall. With his sanity threatening to unravel, completed a week of accompanied prayer at St Barney fatefully turns to his domineering, emasculating John’s Locks Heath, writes Barbara Le Sueur. January's meeting will begin with a mother, the formidable Glaswegian 'good-time girl', Cemolina This is a retreat within everyday life. I do not discussion on the eight shortlisted (Emma Thompson). There's no turning back now and the path know when the opportunity will arise to to this resolutions suggested by members, that lies ahead for Barney may yet be littered with more murderous consequences than again, but I would highly recommend this to one of which will be selected to go he could have ever anticipated. Running time 1hr 36 min. anyone. For all of you who are sceptical about to the annual meeting of the W.I. in joining one of these retreats, I can assure you June. Following this something Winter / Spring 2016 programme – At Titchfield Festival Theatre – St Margaret’s Lane that if you are seeking spiritual guidance and different - seated exercises with the love of our Lord, then then this is for you. audience participation led by Rose February 4th - Suffragette Marshall. Tea and coffee with March 3rd - X+Y Although I found it very intense the WOW biscuits will be served and there April 7th - Lady in the Van factor is well worth it. I had not realised that will be an opportunity to meet keeping 30 minutes each day to pray to our other members and to find out Films are detailed on the Titchfield Moviola web site http://www.titchfieldmoviola.com Lord and to study the scriptures could have about our interest groups. such a life-changing effect on me! Tickets (£6 each) on sale at The Village Greengrocer in The Square, and on the door Titchfield History Society (subject to availability). I know that I am loved and cherished by God Portsmouth Grammar School will be and although I have now started to come down the subject of John Sedden’s talk to be Titchfield Festival Theatre to earth it is wonderful for me to know that He given to the Titchfield History Society St Margaret’s Arts walks with me every step of the way. I will at their first meeting of 2016 on never feel lost or Tuesday 19th January in the Malt TFT's first production of 2016 will be "The Dresser". alone again. Room at Titchfield Community It's 1942, and Sir is taking Shakespeare to the Centre at 7.30pm. provinces. A Great Actor - a colossus of the stage - but The drawing is my is that only what he used to be? Tonight it's Lear - or is interpretation of New members and visitors always it Othello? Or is he getting too old and forgetful for my encounter with welcome. any of it? Only faithful, insignificant Norman, the God. I did not dresser, seems to be able to hold him together at all know that I had it Titchfield WI these days; and at what cost to himself? "The in me to draw like The first meeting of 2016 will be Dresser" is a funny, beautifully observed portrait of a this but I believe held on Monday 25th January in the shabby backstage ego at odds with the glamour and my hand was Parish Room at 7.30pm. Burns greatness of his presence on stage, and the man who sacrifices his own life to guided all the way. Night will be celebrated with a keep him going. It will run at St Margaret Arts, St Margarets Lane, Titchfield, Burns supper with bagpipes. The from Wednesday 13th to Saturday 23rd January, at 7.30 pm. For more God Bless all who read this. monthly competition will be for a information or to book tickets, contact the Box Office on 01329 556156, or go to souvenir of Scotland. the website www.titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com 10 A Child's Christmas in Wales Titchfield and District News 15 John Hiett recalls a childhood Christmas in the Valley of Glamorgan before the War It was just the three them, but Rex Davies Titchfield Gardeners’ Club Titchfield Common School Choir of us children then, said he had seen them Titchfield Gardeners’ Club sings for Fareport Talking News in the mid-thirties, and they were dressed in celebrated the festive season with There was a special treat in store for before the war. I red white and blue. a social and skittles evening at those who listened to the Christmas was about five, my After the railway bridge the Community Centre last edition of Fareport Talking News. In sister a couple of was the farm owned by month. In the skittles addition to the normal weekly news and years older and my Will and Marie King, competition the ladies event was information service there is a magazine little brother a from where we collected won by Margaret Pace and the section containing Christmas fun and an extra special treat. couple of years our milk every gentleman winner was Colin younger. morning. It was also the venue for the Christmas Byatt. The Richard Crackles cup, For this Christmas edition the children Brynna, in the Vale party, by invitation only presented to the member who has from the St. John the Baptist, C of E of Glamorgan, had to a select few of their gained most points in the monthly Primary School Senior Choir in Titchfield only three streets - customers. plant competition, was awarded Common have recorded a selection of Southall Street, to Liz Dorey. Christmas Carols under their conductor William Street and When we went to fetch Harry Dawkins . The idea came from Church Street, the milk in the summer John Sherwin, who is a governor at the forming a T. At this time, Mr King would school and also a programme editor with junction was the squirt warm creamy milk Fareport Talking News. Eagle Hotel (more The young John Hiett into our mouths direct pub than hotel), the shop, a billiard saloon, from the udder. I guess Health and Safety John says “ I am delighted we can include a chip shop, a drapers and a butchers. wouldn't allow that simple pleasure now. Warsash Choral Society the children, they sing beautifully and I know our listeners will appreciate their There was a sweet shop at the top of I taste it still. The Society's Spring concert will Southall Street, and a bakehouse in the involvement. It is also good for the middle of it. At the rear of the bakehouse We all trooped down for the Christmas be on Friday 15th April, at St children to know they are making a was where Mr Davies, the chapel party, us kids running on and then back to Leonard's Church, Bursledon, and valuable contribution to a very Superintendent, slaughtered his pigs, on a Mam and Dad like a bunch of excited rehearsals will start on Friday 8th worthwhile service”. Thanks also go to bench. We could watch as two men held puppies. Mr McAndrew, who liked to use January 2016 at 8.00 pm in the Headteacher Elaine Merriman who was down the pig while its blood ran down the long words like "pneumoconiosis" was in Victory Hall, Warsash Road, delighted that the school could gutter. deep conversation with my Dad, who just Warsash. The works being participate. happened to be the other well-read man in practised are Vaughan Williams' In William Street was the chapel we went the village. The men wore suits and "Benedicite", Dvorak's "Te Fareport Talking News, for the blind and to and also the chapel we didn't go to. ties,the children in their Sunday best. Deum", and Herbert Howell's "Te visually impaired in the Fareham and The front of our house was on the road Deum" and “Jubilate". Gosport areas is recorded weekly. It between Bridgend and Llanharan. At the The farmhouse was large and warm. No contains local news, it’s informative, it’s back was an unmade road which was used huddling around one fire there. Fires entertaining and it is FREE. by the horse drawn cart collecting our were blazing in the parlour, the middle Extra voices are urgently needed ashes every day. At the bottom of room and the kitchen. They had set up a to perform these lovely works - If you know anyone who would benefit William Street was the Primary School magic lantern show for the kids - slides soprano, alto, tenor and bass. If from receiving Fareport Talking News with a headteacher and Miss Bull (who brought back from Africa by missionaries, you enjoy singing then do come please get them to call us on 01329 had also taught my Mam). Then the pictures of people with black skins, along. Music is provided free of 664364 or ring us on their behalf. bridge over the railway - main line to skimpily dressed, living in huts amongst charge. London. One day we were all sent to the enormous trees. The kids were given milk railway to wave at the king and queen as to drink, the men something stronger. they went by in a train. I saw nothing of (Continued on page 11) ➤ 14 11 report by Ros Seward Titchfield History Society A Child's Christmas in Wales Commander Crabb. What Really Happened? (Continued from page 10) Mystery has surrounded the launch next to the pilings at the South In the parlour the evening was warming his eyelids. He had a woollen cap on disappearance and death in 1956 Railway Jetty only to return some 20 up. The noise level was rising. his head, covering his ears. of Commander Lionel Crabb minutes later out of breath and cold Laughter breaking out. Then someone OBE GM RNVR(S) mainly due complaining of poor visibility. He said to my Dad "Come on Laur, give us The men hummed and hawed and had a to an Admiralty and M16 cover returned to the water having missed the a song" My Dad demurred. He had a committee meeting. After a brief up and a 100 year embargo on high water slack and the was good tenor voice but was modest about discussion about whether he should be it. Then he agreed, stood up and moved over the parish boundary to save disclosure of the truth which Lionel Crabb in 1944 beginning to ebb so he was swimming John Bevan, a professional investigator and against the tide. Something happened to prepared to sing his favourite song, "We us the cost of a funeral it was agreed to a diving historian, attempted to unravel Crabb at this point; exactly what is not are in love with you, my heart and I". take him back to the farm.. Mr King when he addressed a meeting of the known. He was not seen alive again. At that very instant the door burst open. said he could stay in his barn until we'd Titchfield History Society in November. A cold blast of air swept into the room informed the village bobby. Nobody There were no official reports of a missing along with No Good knew the old Lionel Crabb had a very distinguished diver but the press began to speculate and Boyo who man or where career in the as a diver and in many exaggerated tales followed, where announced "There's he'd come bomb disposal duties. In 1940 he was he? Was he a spy? Had the Russians a man down, by the from. We volunteered for a bomb disposal unit taken him? A decomposed body wearing a fingerpost". didn't even removing limpet mines in from was found in Chichester know whether the anchored British fleet which had been Harbour in November ‘56 by fishermen but On with the coats he was church placed there by Italian frogmen. He was never brought ashore. In June 1957 a and scarves and or chapel, so received the George Medal for his body wearing a diving suit was again found gloves. We all that decision gallantry. floating in the Harbour and this time it was rushed out, leaving was out of our brought ashore at Thorney Island and taken my sister to stay hands,really. In 1951 Crabb was recalled to the RN to for a post mortem at St Richards Hospital with my little The Chapel, Brynna work at West Leigh House in Havant, an followed by a short inquestat which it was brother. It was Two men went outpost of HMS Vernon in the Underwater declared to be Cdr. Crabb. John Bevan’s bitterly cold but a brilliant night, no to get a door to carry him on. We hung Countermeasures & Weapon Establishment considers the most likely events causing his clouds, the stars so bright it was like about stamping our feet, the men (UCWE). The mid 50’s was the height of death are either poisoning, carbon daylight. The ruts kicked up by the smoking Woodbines, until they got the Cold War with Russia and the British dioxide poisoning, heart attack, age, lack of cows outside the front door were frozen back. It took four men to get him onto Prime Minister had invited sleep, or exhaustion. solid. I felt that I could strike sparks off the door, he was that big. Somehow, the the Russian leaders Khrushchev and them with my hobnailed boots. We all when he was lying on the door he looked Bulganin to Britain for a diplomatic visit. • And what happened to the body? Was it drifted across the field to the road like a smaller, and so lonely. They came to Portsmouth on the Soviet trapped under jetty, recovered by RN dark cloud, across the road and down the cruiser Ordzhonikidze. During the visit divers, collected by M16/NI and released hill to the finger post. The men took turns to carry him up the both M16 and Naval Intelligence Division in Chichester Harbour or; hill to the farm. It was even colder (NI) commissioned independent The old man was lying on his back. He now. Mr McAndrew said "Shouldn't investigations. The objectives seem to have • Washed out of the harbour, washed was a big old man with a full beard, somebody say a prayer?" They turned been to investigate the propellers and ashore, recovered by Police, collected by dressed in layers of clothes. One hand to my Mam - she cleaned the brass at the rudder. M16/NI. released in Chichester Harbour was under his back, the other by his side, chapel.. or; palm upward, fingers gently curved, as if Crabb was commissioned by M16 in mid- he was waiting for some raindrops to get My Mam said"God take this poor man March to carry out investigations. The • Washed out of the harbour, lost, himself a drink of water. He was gazing and keep him warm. Amen" Soviet ships arrived on 18th April amidst substitute body released in Chichester at the stars through unblinking eyes. much security. Crabb did try a dive that harbour by M16/NI? There was frost around his mouth and on evening but it was unsuccessful. He was 47 years old a heavy drinker and smoker so Mr Bevan concluded “Why is it still was not in good condition for diving; he secret, there appears to be no valid also went out drinking that evening. The reason?” next morning at 7am he dived from the 12 13 St Peter’s Nativity Festival 2015

Tim Mason, who entered a knitted nativity set, has an interesting story to tell of its discovery in the window of the Post Office in the village of South Harting on the South Downs. Having purchased the set he was told that it had been knitted by someone in the village.

While displaying the set in his window in South Street he realised that while it had some sheep it was wanting for a donkey or an ass. He subsequently wrote to the South Harting Post Office to see if the knitter might be able to supply one. To his surprise, some three years later, he received a model with a note saying the sender’s mother had knitted the The good people of St Peter’s have done it again. The highly successful Christmas complete set and that what had been Tree festival held last year was followed up this Christmas by an impressive display sent would be an “asset” to his of over sixty model nativity scenes which adorned the church for a large number of collection. visitors to see over a weekend prior to Christmas. The ingenuity and skill of the builders of the displays was obvious and exhibits ranged from knitted figures to When preparing for the St Peter’s home-made models made over 80 years ago for a school in London. Entries were Nativity Festival 2015 he phoned received from local schools and organisations. South Harting Post Office and spoke to Trish Walker, the lady who had sent the additional item nearly 13 years ago. To his delight he Organiser, the Revd Janet discovered that Mrs Walker’s mother, Brenda Petter, is as keen a knitter today as Trevithick said “The Nativity she was then and was, at that very moment, knitting Christmas tree tea cosies. Festival exceeded our expectations! It was impossible to have known beforehand how beautiful all the various The Nativity Festival Nativity scenes would look was combined with St when they were placed around Peter’s Christmas the church, it was a sight to behold. Thank you to so many Bazaar and raffle the people who helped and proceeds of which will supported the day in all sorts of be donated to the ways and we pray for all who visited, that the experience Homeless in Fareham would have a lasting impact charity. this Christmas and beyond.”