AgeUK and Wrekin ext.231 01743 233123 Year 27 BINS - Waste Management November 2020 0345 6789007 U [email protected] CAXTON SURGERY 01691 654646 S https://www.caxtonsurgery.co.uk/index.aspx Citizens Advice Bureau, Castle View 03444 991100 E CORBET SCHOOL www.corbetschool.net 01939 260296 DIAL-A-RIDE, Volunteer Bureau and Qube Arts centre 01691 656882 F (main switchboard Osw.Community Action) U ELECTRICITY Scottish Power (Manweb as was) 0800 270072 KNOCKIN Medical Practice 01691 682203 http://www.westfeltonmagazine.btck.co.uk/ L Methodist Chapel: Revd Julie Skitt 07810 360778 Methodist Hall (Bookings) 01691 610348 NHS Out of Hours Service 111 Orthopaedic Hospital 01691 404000 SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESS T Parish Council email: [email protected]

E https://www.westfeltonparish.co.uk/ POLICE, West Mercia Non-Emergency number 101 MAGAZINE COMMITTEE L Police Station 0300 333 3000 Safer Neighbourhood team—email: E [email protected] Our Editor, Pat, has retired gracefully after 10 long Pradoe Church: Chairman: Andrew Kenyon 01691 610218 P PUNCH BOWL 01691 610322 years editing the magazine. QUEENS HEAD RESTAURANT 01691 610255 H RAIL STATION, GOBOWEN 01691 681010 The committee wants to record thanks and apprecia- Roman Catholic Church: Fr Philip O 01691 652248 tion for the care and attention she has put into Holy Mass Saturday 6:30 pm, Sunday 10 am keeping the magazine going into its 27th year. N RSPCA Shropshire Branch 07703 567935 SAMARITANS 116 123 We are sure all our readers will join us in wishing Pat E SCHOOL – C E School 01691 610388 SHOP: West Felton Stores 01691 610863 happiness and health as she goes forward with a SHROPSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL 0345 6789000 few more free days on her calendar Anti-Social Report Line 0345 6789020 N Your Shrops Councillor: Steve Charmley from now on. 01691 587958 U email:[email protected] St Michael’s Church: Revd Suzan Williams 01691 238658 M Revd Jassica Castillo-Burley 01691 611749 With thanks and Church Wardens: Mr Kenneth Gull 01691 653200 best wishes B Dr Michael Davie 01691 610612 St. Chad’s: Chapel Warden: Mrs A Hampson 01691 610845 from everyone on the E ROYAL BRITISH LEGION - Secretary 01691 610357 committee, contributors VILLAGE HALL Bookings 01691 610629 R WASP Problems Emergency number 01691 831251 / 07779 81025 and readers. S WATER - Severn Trent Water Authority 0800 7834444 WOMEN’S INSTITUTE: Yvette Openshaw 01691 611645 Eileen Hanmer 01691 610629 52 1

What’s On Parish Council Second Tuesday of the month at the slightly later time of David Davies & Sons 8pm, via Zoom. See page 13 "Serving the community for over 170 years" Step by Step Dance Instruction see Page 7 Badminton See Village Hall report Page 7 Felton Flexors Club : See Village Hall Report Page 7 FUNERAL DIRECTORS Pilates Class Table Tennis See Village Hall Report Page 7 An independent family business West Felton Meet Mondays at 10 am opposite the Punch Bowl offering a complete service Walkers for important instructions SEE page 21 Rainbows SUSPENDED including pre-paid funeral plans Short Mat Bowls SUSPENDED for the season. More info September 2021 Children's Martial Arts SUSPENDED. More info January 2021 RBL Meetings SUSPENDED for the time being. 1 Upper Church Street, Oswestry SY11 2AA RBL Bingo SUSPENDED for the time being. 01691 653116 WI SUSPENDED for the time being see page 23

● Friday 27th Christmas Tree lights will be switched on. Sadly no gather- ing this year. Have you bought baubles for the family? See page 17 ● Saturday 28th November 1 to 3pm - WI Christmas mini market. Pop-up stall in Punch Bowl car park. See page 25 ● CHURCH and Remembrance Services—see pages 41 and 37 W. E. Price Round and About West Felton

message to our advertisers We provide the highest level of care, compassion and professionalism. In light of the current Coronavirus pandemic and acknowledging the Available 24 hours a day. Pre-paid funeral plans available difficulties and disruption that it has caused our local businesses, the magazine, as a gesture of support and goodwill, will implement a mor- West Felton 01691 610975 atorium/suspension of all advertising charges to all magazine advertis- Oswestry 01691 652995 ers for the period November 2020 (resumption of the publication) until March 2021. Invoicing will commence from April 2021. www.wepricefuneraldirectors.co.uk

This suspension of charges will offset outstanding advertising commit- Oakwood, Salop Road, Oswestry, SY11 2RN ments by the magazine and any magazine advertising cost for the sus- pension period will be borne by the magazine. This may be a small gesture but we feel this action will help our local businesses. If any advertisers wish to alter or discontinue, please contact Colleen Hughes or myself. Kate Gray, Magazine Treasurer. 2 51

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

CHARGES Phone Eileen Hanmer 01691 610629 Hourly rate £8 Concerts £50 Morning or Afternoon £45 Children's Parties (max 3 hours) £35 Discos/parties £70 Weddings, all day £100 From 12th October, the Post Office will be located in the entrance lobby of the village hall on the following days: Monday 9:30 am - 12:30 pm; Wednesday 9:30 am - 12:30 pm Friday 10:00 am - 13:30 pm

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

Round and About West Felton

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

BY 15th OF THE MONTH, please

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

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

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PARISH OF WHITTINGTON

Telephone - 01691 610863 WITH WEST FELTON Hello West Felton, AND HAUGHTON I am Priyank Shah, the new shopkeeper of your village store “West Felton Stores” or The Shop as most of you call it. I have seen few people are quite curious about the new face in the village and hopefully this article will tell you a thing or two about me. Rector: Reverend Suzan Williams, The Rectory, About myself:- Castle Street Whittington, 01691 238658. I will best describe myself as shy, simple, honest and friendly family man. Please bear Curate at West Felton: Reverend Jassica Castillo-Burley, with me when I first take over the shop, I may forget the usual orders and maybe a name or two until I pick up everything there is to learn. The Rectory, West Felton 611749

I have around 5 years’ experience in the retail business. I loved every aspect of it how- ever when it started affecting my work-life balance I had to take a step back. In 2016 West Felton CHURCH SERVICES when my daughter was born, I left retail and started as Passenger services agent at ST MICHAEL’S - Sundays 9.30 am Heathrow airport so I can be there for my daughter as much as I can. My job at the air- port was going quite well but as all good things come to an end, I lost my job to the • A weekly service with weeks 1 and 3 being a form of current pandemic. However this also gave me a chance to re-evaluate my passion. I was morning prayer; finally ready to take that plunge and have a business of my own. When the opportunity to own this lovely shop in this scenic beautiful place presented I couldn't resist. There • weeks 2 and 4 a modified communion service; was that silver lining to this current hard times after all. I am really excited for this • and on week 5, when it occurs, morning prayer. phase of my life and along with my wife Ruchita (whom you will be seeing in the shop) and my daughter Sia (beware of this li'l elf on the shelf) look forward to be a part of this amazing community you have at West Felton. 8th November: Remembrance service 10.00am I understand this is the only shop in the village and people do rely on it for their day to Because of social distancing rules numbers will be re- day or last minute supplies and especially in these current times when there are long stricted. You should let Rev’d Jassica know if you intend queues in front of supermarkets and long waiting times for the major delivery services. to come 01691 611749 or [email protected] and I will be running the store with the help of my team Ruchita, Elizabeth (Lizz or Lizzy, as you call her) and Charlotte. Together with my team and your support I will try my don’t forget the mask. best to run this store smoothly and efficiently. I would also appreciate your suggestions for any future changes you would like to see 11th November at 10.45am Service at the War memorial. in the store, as I believe people of “West Felton” should have a say in “West Felton …………….…………………………………………………………………………………….. Stores”. ST CHAD’S, HAUGHTON Please let us know your views, your requirements and your suggestions on [email protected] one service a month on the 4th Sunday at 4.00pm or pop in store anytime for a chat and we will try to accommodate your requests and Please also see notice outside St Chad’s. suggestions where and when we can. I will try to start the paper rounds and deliveries as soon as I can for elderly people, ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. people in insolation and gradually, when I have a proper system in place, for whole Baptisms, Weddings and Funerals village. Please arrange with Please follow government guidelines and keep yourself and your loved ones safe. The Rector, Rev’d Suzan Williams 01691 238658 Priyank Shah or the Churchwardens Open: Monday-Friday 7.00 am - 8.00 pm; Saturday 7.30 am - 8.00 pm Sunday 7.30 am - 7.00 pm; open all bank holidays incl Christmas Day See back page for phone numbers

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This is a public health message from NHS Test and Trace Test and Trace

As part of the government’s coordinated response to Coronavirus, NHS Test and Trace has developed the new NHS COVID-19 app.

It is now available for download to all residents of and . We strongly recommend that everyone over the age of 16 downloads and uses it.

Download the ‘NHS COVID-19’ app from the App Store or Google

Masonry Repair Specialist Play. There is more information at https://covid19.nhs.uk Brick and Stone Repointing / Damaged Masonry Replaced The app will help you to understand and manage your personal risk ASSOCIATED SERVICES - ROOF REPAIRS-Slate-Tile-Flat and reduce the spread of Coronavirus. Storm Damage/Insurance Claims/Guttering/New Build/Masonry Repainting Clear Masonry Sealants/Large and Small Works The more people who use it, the more effective it will be. Insured / References / FREE WRITTEN QUOTES • The app requires operating system 13.5 or above if you have an Contact 01743 742052 - 07527 893044 - [email protected] SUMMER PRICES ALL YEAR ROUND / Shropshire and Mid Wales Apple iPhone. • It requires Android 6.0 or above if you have an Android phone. ARRIDGE • If your smartphone is not compatible, you can still access full sup- port from the NHS Test and Trace service.■ GARAGE DOORS WEST FELTON VILLAGE HALL RE-OPENING AFTER COVID CLOSURE West Felton Village Hall Committee Once we had studied all the guidelines, rules and responsibilities associ- ated with re-opening community buildings, and we were confident we could fulfil what was required, we thought it important to re-open the Vil- Up and over Sectional Roller Side-hinged lage Hall. A great deal of work had to be done to clean everything, ensure anything not necessary was put away and put up appropriate signage. All types supplied, fitted and repaired - Remote Controls Prompt professional service - Quality guaranteed installations A Risk Assessment had to be prepared and that, together with the spe- cial conditions of hire are displayed in the Hall. As a Committee we are Est 1989 - Opening Hours responsible for providing a COVID-compliant facility, but it is the responsi- www.arridgegaragedoors.co.uk Mon-Fri 9-5.30 bility of the hirer to ensure all current regulations and guidelines are ad- 68-70 Roft Street, Oswestry, SY11 2EP 01691 670394 hered to. Each hirer has had to sign special conditions, and must keep (Continued on page 7)

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Roberts Refresh How to kill your wife and get Your Local West Felton Cleaning Lady away with it by Gyles Brandreth as featured in The Oldie I cover Oswestry and Domestic Cleaning Service surrounding areas For your home or office P D James gave me tips for the perfect murder. Two years professional experience Please call Kelly Roberts on: Apparently, during the pandemic, a lot of people – married couples, References on request 07597 185297 especially, cooped up together for months on end – have had murder From £10.00 per hour Or email: on their minds. I am here to help. [email protected] Monday to Friday This is the centenary of P D James, one of my favourite crime writ- ers (and one of my favourite people) and the mistress of the sophisti- cated murder mystery. why not try Thinking about her birthday and about how I might be able to advise any murderously inclined readers, I’ve been remembering the last OSWESTRY time Phyllis James and I had tea together. It wasn’t that long ago: she died in 2014, aged 94. I loved her. She was small and twinkly, courte- CABS ous, kindly, and sharp as cyanide. 01691 661663 ‘Could I commit the perfect murder?’ she mused while pouring the Don’t pay more for Earl Grey into my cup. ‘Well, yes, my dear, I think that, very possibly, door to door? I could.’ ‘What is the first rule of murder?’ I asked her. West Felton to Oswestry £6.90 - 6 am till m/night ‘Keep it simple,’ she said at once. ‘And the second rule is: don’t tell £11.00 - m/night till 6 am a soul. If you can keep a secret, you can get away with murder.’ Oswestry to ‘How would you get away with yours?’ Manchester Airport £59.00 ‘If I had an unpleasant husband with healthy life insurance, on 8 passenger minibus available - Oswestry to Wrexham £56 re- Christmas Day I would take him to Beachy Head. There’s nothing turn quite like a bracing walk on the chalky cliffs of the Sussex Downs to All our reasonable rates clear the cobwebs at Christmas.’ In Who’s Who, P D James listed just a ‘phone call away ‘walking by the sea’ as her favourite recreation. ‘We’d walk and we’d talk and we’d gaze out to sea, and I would make sure that no one was looking, no one at all, and then, quite suddenly, I’d push him over the edge.’ She gurgled with pleasure at the prospect. Alan Williams Carpenter/Joiner ‘Do you think you’d get away with it?’ I asked, incredulous. All joinery considered. ‘Oh, yes. I’d say, “He simply went too near the edge. He always went too near the edge.” The police would have their suspicions, nat- Fitted wardrobes, laminated and solid wood flooring, urally, but they would have no proof. To prosecute successfully, you PVC facias, making and fitting doors and frames need hard evidence. There would be no evidence. Can you see a jury and fitting kitchens. No job too small. convicting me? I don’t think so, my dear. I don’t think it would even Over 40 years experience come to court, but if it did I’d be in safe hands. I would have Rumpole of the Bailey to defend me.’■

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Quality Day Care for Children (Continued from page 5) Village Hall re opening

• Owned and managed by Mums updated on all current restrictions – which as we all know are subject to • Full day care from 12 weeks to pre-school change - and have a Risk Assessment for their particular group. If any • Nursery Education Funding for 3 and 4 year olds • 24u funding accepted / All inclusive fees group do not adhere to the restrictions we have the right to cancel their • Open daily 51 weeks from 07.30 - 18.30 booking – and of course we have to be prepared to close the hall again • Set in acres of farmland with large outdoor garden if directed by or the Government. But we hope nei- • Fresh home cooked food using locally sourced products ther of those will be necessary. 01743 741554 - www.littlepixiesnursery.co.uk For those of you who have not yet used the hall, sanitiser is available Kinton Business Park, Kinton, Nr Nesscliffe, SY4 1AZ at the entrance, exit (which is now from the main hall) and entrance to the store room. The hall is regularly cleaned, but hirers are responsible for ensuring all surfaces touched (which even includes light switches, Business Support Programme Accounts Preparation Management Accounts Financial Services door handles etc.) are cleaned before and after each hiring. No chairs Tax Planning Payroll Services are stored in the hall – which gives it a slightly different look. We have SAGE software sales & support Auditing to provide a ‘COVID isolation’ area in case anyone is taken ill with sus- Business Start Ups pected COVID whist at the hall and cannot immediately leave. The ob- vious place for this was the back room, but this means neither the Offices Ellesmere, Oswestry, Llangollen and Telford: kitchen nor back room are available for anyone. When you are in the at: Telephone: 01691 622098 Chartered hall, you will notice this is taped off to ensure it is kept ready for use. e-mail: [email protected] Accountants and Business Advisers There are restrictions on what the hall can be used for, and we have decided to limit hirings to those who live within our Parish, but from 10th August the hall became available once again for hire. Some groups have already returned. As a committee, we have taken the de- cision to ensure the slots of regular users who do not wish to return yet will be held for a period of time so when they are ready to meet again, the hall will be available for them. Any new groups wishing to use the hall must be prepared to go through several pages of paperwork! Some Specialists in Domestic and of the groups who have already returned are listed below. If you wish to Commercial Carpets and Vinyls join please call the named contact as in these strange times there may be things you need to be made aware of before you join in:

Also Specialists in Safety Flooring Badminton Flexors Exercise Group Altro, Polyflor, Tarkett, Gerflor, etc Tuesday 8 – 9.30 p.m. Wednesday 9.30 – 10.30 a.m. Contact Eileen (610629) or Gentle stretching and exercises for all For wet rooms, kitchens, bathrooms and saunas Glynnis (610336) Contact Lesley (610423) or June FREE ESTIMATES (610566) Felton Table Tennis Group Step by Step Dance Instruction 01691 610003 or 07710 595221 Thursday 7.30 – 9 p.m. (apart from Tuesday evening 2nd Thursday of the month) Private ballroom and Latin dance We will bring the samples to you Social group who play for fun classes for adults and children amongst themselves. Players of all Contact Ross Millar on or we can arrange a time to meet at our showroom abilities welcome. [email protected] Contact Ian Walker (610224)

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Village Bobby’s WHIST DRIVE from Maggie Lokier Contact Details In April, I reported that our next 3 meetings were suspend- ed because of Covid-19. As you will appreciate time has PC 3194 Mark Moth, Oswestry Rural South LPO (Local Police Officer) passed and the impact of that disease has been widespread preclud- ing our safe meeting up. Mob: 07816 172474 - Not to be used to report incidents or crimes We have decided to reconsider future whist drives next year prior to : 0300 333 3000 Crimestoppers: 0800 555111 Spring in the hope that we can meet safely and enjoy our 24 games in New non emergency number 101 good company. Meanwhile keep your hands occupied with shuffling, dealing and playing cards, and your minds busy with quizzes, crosswords and reading. Next year, all being, well we will reconvene and renew our love for the beautiful game.■ Oswestry Library The Tail of a Dog For up to date information on opening and events 01743 250351 Shona here, this is just a quickie. Missus just laughed – what’s wrong with a quickie? I think we will be having a little talk later. www.shropshire.gov.uk/libraries/find-a-library/Oswestry-library/ OK this month’s article is the 1st since April, time is tight and so is space in the newsletter. So, I thought a quick update with a longer ar- ticle next month. I’ve been keeping Missus sane – ok so I’m a failure at it but I’m try- ing… I have had some lovely runs with my boyfriend who is a gor- geous tuxedo greyhound. I mean black like me but with a white bib that almost looks like a bow tie at his neck. I’m a very lucky hound to have him in my life. Missus has changed my food again and it’s delish and I love it.

As to Covid-19 we are healthy so far. I nag Missus to take her temperature every morning and she has an emer- Disclaimer gency pack just in case I have to stay Round and About West Felton Magazine is not responsible for any with a friend. advertiser’s products, services or company, Now I better get this off to our new nor for any claims made by advertisers. Head Hitter. Take care and see you when we are The information, statements and opinions expressed in reports or articles allowed out & about. published in Round and About West Felton Magazine are solely those of Love Shona the authors and do not in any way reflect those of the magazine committee. 8 45

WEST FELTON VILLAGE HALL Chairman’s Report 2019-2020 An unusual year, to say the least! I should be reporting on our achievements up until March of this year but of course matters have rather been taken out of our hands so will try and bring us up to date as far as possible. Apart from when the big alterations were made to the hall nearly 25 years ago, I am not sure the hall has ever been out of bounds for so long. We closed on 23rd March due to the COVID-19 restrictions and even- tually re-opened on 10th August, and from what we can gather, we are one of the few halls in Shropshire to do so. Well done for a great ef- fort. I am sure, and certainly hope, people look on the re-opening as the start of community life returning to the village – even though not as it was before. Although some regular users have indicated they will not return this year, others have restarted or will do so soon. Together our regulars include Indoor Bowling, Pilates, Ballroom Dancing, Flexors, Table Ten- nis, and the WI. Unfortunately we have lost the Youth Club – not because there were no youngsters wishing to attend this very popular club, but due to a lack of people willing to run it. This is not only a loss of income for the s hall, but a huge loss to the youth of our village. Due to the lockdown, hiring of the village hall for concerts, parties and sleepovers has clearly not happened and being realistic is unlikely to Welcome to Shropshire Landscapes a leading landscaping company with a do so before December. We did have a very successful Christmas Bin- reputation for creating truly magnificent and unique gardens throughout go – but our other fundraisers, e.g. Easter Bingo and two events by Shropshire. As true landscaping specialists, we take pride in what we do, and magician Jack Dent had to be postponed. work closely with each of our clients to develop inspired concepts, creating exciting, practical garden design. Our philosophy is simple reliability, The Financial Report for the year ending March 2020 recorded a defi- combined with a professional service and value for money. Services we offer: cit of £1051 (£1100 last year) which in fact was a great result bearing Patios and all aspects of paving Decking in mind there was nearly a £4,000 increase in Repairs and Mainte- Fencing and trellises Turf laying and artificial grass nance. Driveways and paths Natural stone paving - Indian stone OK, we had an anomaly with the insurance costs and also received a Garden walls, brickwork, rendering grant towards the new heaters but nevertheless we improved income by £2,000. We now have the additional heaters and once again the "Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works.” hall is warm and welcoming. The coming year will be a challenge but With us there are no ‘hidden costs’ – we set out the inclusive price. we do have the comfort of further grants totalling £10,500 to secure Quotations are free of charge and made at a time to suit you. We look our survival. forward to hearing from you. (Continued on page 11) 01691 611680 - 07400 821581 or [email protected] 44 9

(Continued from page 41) News from St Michael’s penses a wafer to a communicant. The wine is another source of PROFESSIONAL TREATMENT and ADVICE potential infection. Some people use intinction by dipping the wafer PAIN RELIEF in the wine. This practice is abhorred by some and banned in some back and neck problems ● sporting injuries ● arthritic conditions cathedrals. Whether the wine used for Communion has enough al- muscle and ligament strains ● muscle imbalance problems cohol (around 20%) to kill germs is uncertain, though the longevity of ● tenosynovitis ● repetitive strain syndromes ● back care priests who drink up the remains after the service does testify to the fact that they don’t come to much harm. ● post surgical re-education ● education talks Possibly of even greater interest in the You Tube video, though not Treatments available include: Appointments can be made direct  Joint mobilisations and or through your GP. commented on, is communicants receiving the wine in individual manipulations Appointments can be arranged at cups rather than supping from a communal chalice. Such cups can  Exercises short notice. be bought in bulk, empty or prefilled or you can have your own cup.  Connective tissue mas- Treatment times can be arranged The practice of having an individual cup rather than a communal sage out of working hours. chalice is one of those matters that splits the Church of England.  Postural Awareness The Prayer of Consecration in the Book of Common Prayer 1662 hillside cottage, hopton,  Electro-therapy appears to acknowledge that there may be more than one cup: “And nesscliffe, , sy4 1dg  Ergonomic Advice here to lay his hand upon every vessel (be it chalice or Flagon) in Tel: 01743 741544  Ultrasound which there is any Wine to be consecrated”. However the Book of Common Prayer also states that: “And the Minister that delivereth ●New PCs and Laptops fully installed at home the Cup to any one shall say” the ●Spyware Removal/Installation of Leading Edge emphasis being on the word “the” Spyware Prevention implying only one cup. The Legal ●Performance Tuning and Business PC Support ●Hardware/Software Installations and Training advisory commission to the Bish- ●Upgrades and Automated Backup ops ruled against the practice of ●Remote Support/Annual PC Health Check Also multiple cups, but this has been Available ●For low fixed Prices from £19.95 opposed by three QCs. It all de- PC/Laptop Stopped running or running slow or need a replacement? pends on how you interpret the Call Justin on (01691) 830822 or (07772) 596029 words “to be delivered in two kinds” in the Sacrament Act of MOBILE MASSAGE THERAPIST 1547. The QCs argue that it says nothing about how it should be Your local massage therapist delivered. Fully qualified / Anti-cellulite massage / Sports massage Reflexology / Therapeutic massage / Relaxation massage And all this before even getting to grips with frequency of commun- Covering Oswestry and Surrounding areas HOME VISITS ion – possibly on another occa- sion.■ Contact Cristian: Fb @Massage at home [email protected] 01691 611 632 / 07459 077 741

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(Continued from page 9) Village Hall Chairman’s report A possible major problem with woodworm has been averted and re- pairs/installation of air-venting is booked for the future. Gentlemen will TM be pleased that a new toilet is also on the agenda. Finally, my thanks: OSWESTRY • to Pat Mabe for so willingly including anything to do with the hall in the Parish magazine – and we look forward to its return in due time; TOWN MARKET • to Pippa for keeping the hall so clean and tidy – and being happy to carry on with all the necessary current restrictions; • to Maggie for her advice on Health and Safety etc.; • and finally, to all of you on the Committee who give so generously of your time to ensure this very valuable village asset continues to be available to all in the Parish who wish to use it. WELL DONE EVERYONE DAVID CURTIS, Chairman, 27.8.2020■

From Monday, 12th October, the Post Office will be located in the entrance lobby of the village hall on the following days: Monday 9:30 am - 12:30 pm Wednesday 9:30 am - 12:30 pm Friday 10:00 am - 13:30 pm WEST FELTON PARISH COUNCIL COME AND ENJOY https://www.westfeltonparish.co.uk/ THE WARM and FRIENDLY Parish Council Report April – September 2020 The Parish Council, like many other groups and organisations have ATMOSPHERE been holding their meetings remotely, using Zoom. Pleased to say that this has worked well so far with all Councillors able to gain access to INDOOR MARKET: STREET MARKET: at least some of the meetings.

OVER During the past few months some of the issues dealt with are as fol- Wednesday, Wednesday lows:- 30 Friday & & The Primary School: Saturday STALLS Saturday A request for £4,000 to enable architects to draw up plans for the pro- posed new extension was granted. 42 11 (Continued on page 13)

News from St Michael's Church from Michael Davie, Churchwarden

Clean Chimneys are safe chimneys After 6 months of lockdown, church services are once again being held in St Michael’s and at Haughton. At St Michael’s there will be a Brush and Vacuum – Leakage testing – Nests removed – weekly service with weeks 1 and 3 being a form of morning prayer and weeks 2 and 4 a modified communion service and on week 5, Cowls, Bird Guards and caps supplied and fitted. Open fire, when it occurs, morning prayer for the time being. multi fuel stoves, Aga, domestic and commercial. Haughton will have one service a month on the 4th Sunday at Fully Insured with NFU, Certificates given. For a Fast, 4.00pm. Friendly and Clean Service or th just help and advice. There will be a Remembrance service on 8 November

at 10.00am but because of social distancing rules num- bers will be restricted. As things are at present you Call 01939 768319 should let Jassica know if you intend to come and don’t forget the mask. It is also intended to have a service on the 11th November at 10.45am at the War memorial. The churches haven’t been totally asleep during the lockdown: 24 The Wheatlands, Baschurch, Shropshire N.A.C.S. Member 12/05 space for prayers has been available every Wednesday morning since July at St Michael’s and the Bishop of Lichfield and a few ‘disciples’ walked from Shrewsbury to St Chad’s arriving late one hot summer’s afternoon. I have never seen a group of people so glad to hear that cold beer was on offer, and they tucked into the S. Owen & Sons food that was laid for them as well. The Wharf House, Pant, Oswestry There was a short service and the group spent an hour and a half at St Chad’s. The Bishop was on a mission to visit all 27 churches For all your Coal and dedicated to St Chad in the Lichfield Diocese. He was fascinated to hear that a nest of adders had been disturbed in the churchyard Heating Oil Supplies whilst it was being mown (fortunately no injuries to snake or man) such interactions being unknown in the inner city suffragan see from which he came. Phone your Local Supplier on: The communion service has unsurprisingly caused controversy be- cause it is not being held every week and because it is only being 01691 held in one kind; that is bread alone. Even bread alone is contro- versial from the health aspect since the wafers have probably passed through several fingers even before they reach the priest. 830315 To avoid infection the Americans have come up with an automatic wafer dispenser (which you can view on You Tube). The vessel is filled from a sealed packet and by pressing a lever the priest dis- (Continued on page 43)

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(Continued from page 11) Parish Council REUPHOLSTERY Playing Field: Unfortunately in March we had no option but to close the Playing Field SUITES ANTIQUES - CONTRACT UPHOLSTERY to the public. After restrictions were eased in July and a Risk Assess- Wide range of Fabrics - OLD BAKEHOUSE, QUEENS HEAD ment carried out, we were able to re-open with signage displayed to For Free Quotes call advise of the safety measures necessary. 01691 610153 or 0780 1108860 The Chain Walker timbers had rotted away and it was completely re- placed. A quote has been accepted for repairs to the Skier and these have now been completed. Moles continue to raise their little heads as well as the soil, both on the field and at the Burial Ground and will be SEPTIC TANK EMPTYING SERVICE dealt with again during the Autumn. Registered Waste Carrier Planning: Local Operator Several Planning Applications have been considered over the months and concerns have been expressed to Shropshire Council about the For a prompt and efficient service ongoing works, creation of pools and operation of a commercial busi- ness at Tedsmore Lakes, all without prior notification. Two members of Contact Edward Scott the public also expressed their views on this at our September meeting on 01691 656256 or 07989881870 and County Cllr Steve Charmley will pursue this. Consultations: The revised Shropshire Local Plan is out for consultation and our re- sponse to this and the government white paper 'Planning for the Future' have been submitted. The consultation on 'Changes to the Planning System' also raised concerns and again our comments will be forward- ed. The Police CC survey was completed and a response agreed. Other Parish Matters: Road permits are still awaited to enable the new street light at Queens Head to be installed. The non-working streetlight in the Willows has been reported. The Shropshire Council Outdoor Partnership team have responded to our enquiries about maintenance and clearing of footpaths and assured have a great Hair Day us that they are continuing their improvements to the parish paths and Salon Style In Your Own Home any issues can be reported to them. Advanced Cutting Techniques / Colour Specialists Our meetings continue to be held on the second Tuesday of the month Perming / Setting and Straightening at the slightly later time of 8pm, via Zoom. Parishioners can still attend Gents Grooming / Children these meetings and details of the Zoom link can be obtained via our Wedding Packages website: www.NatashaValentine.co.uk https://www.westfeltonparish.co.uk Freelance Hairdressing - 07967 620555 or from our Parish Clerk, Rosemary Wood: Email : [email protected] 40 13

DG & HA SMITH

with Topiarius Service and repair to all makes of oil fired boilers

01691 657634 The enforced lockdown due to Covic-19 probably had one small silver lin- 11 Artillery Road, Park Hall, Oswestry SY11 4AJ ing for gardens – there were a great many more people at home with time Email [email protected] to spare so that, in theory at least, more gardens got better attention than usual. There was even the possibility of some people growing food for the first time in response to fears of shortages. Chris Orme On the other hand, gardens were closed to the public so a lot of pleasure for garden lovers was lost. One result of this was the National Garden Painter & Decorator Scheme lost a lot of income. Some owners gave donations and there were Free quotes - All work undertaken virtual gardens set up, while some sold plants to be collected with no con- For more information call: tact. As well as gardens closed, nurseries were not operating so another pleasure, that of buying plants, was also lost. We grow bedding and buy Home 01691 828298 - Mob: 07817 614 848 plugs by mail order but this is not the same as browsing for new shrubs The Fields, Deytheur, Llansantffraid, Powys SY22 6TE and perennials. In fact, we had to work a bit harder on raising bedding be- cause we normally buy ready to plant out material for containers and that was not convenient this year. CLEANING SERVICES We were one of the NGS gardens that grew plants for sale. We hit on the MH idea of people ordering by email, paying by either bank transfer or putting money in a tin and collecting by appointment. Sales exceeded all expecta- tions and the strange result was that, by the time of our first non-opening WINDOW CLEANING we had collected more money that in a normal whole year of openings. At some points, there were eight or nine orders laid out in front of the garage Domestic- Commercial • All Glasswork waiting for collection. Obviously, most commercial nurseries being closed accounted in part to this success, but I suspect that newcomers to the gar- No Job too Big or too Small • Solar Panels dening scene also had an effect. Certainly, many customers were novices. • Patios • Outside Lighting • Guttering By the time we were able to open with the clever idea of people booking in • Driveways • Periodic Testing and Inspection advance for a particular time slot, the plants for sale area, particularly the • Decking • General Electrical Work • shrubs, looked rather thin. We did our best to restock a bit over high sum- • Conservatories mer and, in the autumn, opened plant sales again to do a bit more for the Fuse Board Upgrades charity. There are cuttings in all directions as we prepare for next year. Landlord Safety Checks DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL A combination of time and weather also meant that it was a good year for • Free Quotations • New Builds COMPETITIVE RATES REFERENCES ON REQUEST keeping on top of all the gardening work. I suspect we are not alone in • Extensions - Re-wires feeling that the garden has never been so well looked after. September is All work is certificated & fully tested the start of a new gardening year when the summer maintenance work Contact us for a free no obligation quote decreases a bit and thoughts turn to new projects and renovations—in our case mostly resulting from the annual assessment that we make in July. [email protected] 01691 610638 or 07849 217738 By the time you read this, winter work should be well under way and a [email protected] start made on shrub and tree pruning. A good time also to make your seed orders for next year. ◼ 14 39

Friendly , Reliable, Local Service That time of year is approaching Free no obligation estimates when we all want to get our High standard of work gardens looking presentable for Spring. No mess left behind!

[email protected] Unfortunately, this sort of work often attracts undesira- ble and untrustworthy work men and women preying on the Installation Repairs vulnerable people in our communities. Tel 07969 833 610 The Police and Trading Standards officers are already receiving reports Maintenance of garden work, tree pruning, building work / roofing repairs etc being carried out by 'a man in a van' where residents have been massively overcharged for the work done, or that the work carried out was of a poor standard. Advice from the Police If you require any gardening work, building work or roofing repairs etc to be carried out, only use a professional trades person that has been recommended to you by a neighbour, friend or family member, or someone you have used previously and were happy with their service. Please avoid using someone that is going door to door touting for work - as honest, trustworthy and good quality professional trades peo- ple don't usually need to obtain work this way. Before any work is commenced on your property the professional trades person is 'legally obliged' to provide you with a 'written contract' outlining their full company details, contact details and total price agreed - it must also include a 14 day cooling off period. If the person can't or refuses to provide a written contract before work commences, then you should politely decline their services. Often, when a written contract has not been provided the trades person will give a cheap 'verbal' quote for the work to encourage you to agree to employing them - but once work has commenced and there's seeming- ly no turning back, the original quote very often doubles or triples in price. If a tradesperson is being pushy trying to get you agree to employ DAVID JAMES CARPENTRY them, or you feel intimidated by their presence, then politely decline their services. If you have unwanted callers at your door that are tout- ing for work and they won't take 'No' for an answer - then phone the Internal and external property maintenance, gazebos, paving, Police on 101. garden projects. Happy to discuss your requirements Kind regards, Mark with no commitment References available / Contact David James PC 3194 MOTH, Safer Neighbourhood Team, 07930 185106 / 01939 262449 Oswestry Rural South, [email protected] Tel - 101 Ext 7704021 - 07870219082

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Thinking of making a Will West Felton Methodist Chapel or Power of Attorney? Wills £150 Minister: Rev Julia Skitt 07810 360778 Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) £150 Secretary: Mrs. Christine Curtis 01691 610665 Sensibly priced and affordable Legal services Call Paul Humphreys today Although we have a small congregation, we had made plans for several events in 2020. In mid-March we looked ahead and discussed if we could carry on with our normal activities in view of the virus that was sweeping the Tel: 01691 652233 world. We reduced the numbers we would allow in the schoolroom, and www-.Asset-Wealth-Preservation.co.uk thought that would be enough. But then the lockdown was announced – and we have not met in the Chapel since. Many churches found ways of broadcasting services, and the Methodist Church in Shropshire began zoom A & J services every Sunday morning – what would we all have done without zoom, skype or Microsoft teams? But it is only in the last month that Methodist Duncan Galliers chapels have begun to re-open for services. CATTERY Master Upholsterer and In West Felton we have decided not to open for regular services until at least Open all year round Furniture Restorer the new year. I am writing this at the end of September, and we are planning Upholstery to meet for our 111th anniversary in mid-October. We did not advertise it in Cattery is fully heated advance as we needed to see how things went with just a certain number in the chapel. We very much hope it will have gone ahead. Specialist in traditional Covered outside runs techniques for antique and Of course our chapel is more than just our members – we have many who modern furniture. join us for our activities. Little did we know that our March coffee morning Collection and Delivery would be the last for several months – being realistic probably the last one in Leather and spring repair, 2020. Where we have contact numbers for our friends who join our coffee “Give your cat a holiday foam cut to size - mornings, we have tried to make contact to say ‘hello’. As it is not a club, we and sundries! while you enjoy yours” do not ask for contact details – so if you have not had a call from us, we Sandstone Holdings, Call 01743 353981 or apologise! Dovaston, Kinnerley, email A few weeks before the lockdown we took the decision to postpone the [email protected] planned concert by Newtown Male Voice Choir – the concert will be Oswestry SY10 8DS something to look forward to in the future, andBumps, Babies and Tots did not Tel: 01691 682 606 even have chance to have meet once! The schoolroom is not yet available We are only 5 minutes from for hire and, like the chapel, is unlikely to be until the new year. West Felton So it may still be months before we can gather together. But be assured you are all in our thoughts and prayers. West Felton Methodist Chapel LOUISE JONES 01691 655 655 Oswestry and borders Foodbank AURA Helping local people in crisis [email protected] 24 SALOP ROAD For donations see https://oswestryandborders.foodbank.org.uk/give-help/donate-food/ OSWESTRY SY11 2NU 56 Beatrice Street, Oswestry, SY11 1QW 01691 671940 You can also donate food at Sainsbury’s and Tesco

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CARNIVAL COMMITTEE The Carnival committee is pleased to present the village 2020 Christmas Tree.

The tree will be switched on from Friday November 27th 2020

West Felton Christmas Tree Our wonderful West Felton Carnival Rednal Garage Committee has again this year kindly Unit 5 Rednal Aerodrome donated a Christmas Tree to be located at the junction of Alma Close. As an addition this year they have donated coloured Specialising in German and Swedish cars baubles which will be personalised and sold at a cost of £2 per bauble New and Second-hand Volvo Spares in Stock and placed upon the tree.

This is an ideal opportunity for you to have the name of your child, a loved one, a pet etc hanging on our village tree this Christmas – a little personal touch! ALL PROCEEDS WILL BE DONATED to a CHILDREN’S CHARITY OIL BOILER SERVICING AND REPAIRS (to be decided at a later date). To place your order of your personalised bauble(s) please complete the form below and return with payment to: Call Stuart for prompt and efficient response 01691 682480 Sharon Arthur Eileen Hanmer 07940 757503 51, Applewood Heights Lawn House OFTEC qualified engineer - all works fully insured 610767 610629

name address phone

Covering all of North Shropshire and Welsh Border Counties Bauble name - only one name per bauble £2 per bauble Oil fired heating engineer for all types of work relating to oil fired heating 1. systems including boiler servicing, installation, breakdowns, leakage problems and all types of maintenance. 2. All aspects of general plumbing work also undertaken 3. JIM PARKES 4. Tel : 01978 722598 / M 36 17

(Continued from page 33) Town to Country that we have been here we already feel more part of the community than in the many previous years spent in London. Winter swept in. We expected snow and freezing weather “Up North” but it was a mild one. After a wonderful first Christmas we began to make plans for the spring. Looking forward to a new season with changing fields, baby lambs arriving, and getting out to further explore the area. Having discovered many good places to eat and drink, the plan was to sample them all. Unfortunately, then came lockdown. However, our regular walks around the village were a total joy. The people, the livestock, the wildlife, the fields, so much better compared to how it would have been in London. There is no com- parison. We would never go back. Our local shop came to the rescue of many. I use it more now and will carry on doing so. Its value cannot be overstated. The Punch Bowl has also started to re-establish itself and we hope that they both continue to flourish. West Felton is a very friendly village and we feel very lucky to live here. To top it all we have a second grandson due in November and he will be a proper Shropshire Lad. We are now truly putting down roots in this beautiful county and we couldn’t be happier.■

MOBILE LIBRARY - There are some changes to bear in mind when visiting the Mobile Library: ● Only one person (or household) is allowed on at a time ● Queue outside the vehicle until allowed on board, maintain a 2 metre distance from others ● Face coverings are mandatory ● Use the hand sanitiser provided when you board ● Make your visit as brief as you can to ensure the Library can leave to go to the next stop on time. The dates for the rest of the year (subject to change due to inclement weather, vehicle breakdown, COVID-19) are as follows:

Owen Mobile Library Route 4, Alternate Thursdays: Grimpo: 14.20 to 14.35 - West Felton Village Hall: 14.50 to 15.30 22 October 2020 5 November 2020 19 November 2020 3 December 2020 17 December 2020 31 December 2020 (no visit)

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Home is where the care is Enabling you to remain independent West Felton Branch

Find out more information on our award winning home care service. Branch Meetings are SUSPENDED for the time being. Email the Bluebird Care team: Despite the Covid-19 pandemic The Royal British Legion is working hard to [email protected] ensure that this year’s Poppy Appeal will go ahead. Here in West Felton the or call us on 01743 874343 branch secretary reports that there will be no house to house collections this or 01691 749128 year. There will be collection boxes in the Queens Head and the Punch Bowl. www.bluebirdcare.co.uk/shropshire West Felton Stores will be offered one as will the village school. Wreaths for the churches and the village memorial will be available. Anyone else who would like a wreath should contact the secretary, Amanda Wood on 610357. Education and support in settling your baby and infant massage 8th November: Remembrance service St Michael’s Church 10.00am Because of social distancing rules numbers will be restricted. Are you looking for local support with helping You should let Rev’d Jassica know if you intend to come 01691 611749 your baby or infant to settle or resettle? or email [email protected] and don’t forget the mask. Are you fed up with having broken or very little sleep?

Do you feel the lack of sleep is affecting your health? Would you like to learn infant massage in either a group setting or one 11th November at 10.45am Service at the War memorial. on one? I have just under twelve years of experience working closely with families on a daily basis in a residential setting, assisting with sleeping, Shrewsbury Town Poppy Football Pin 2020 feeding and parenting concerns. I am a Registered Nurse, Child Health Nurse (equivalent to UK health Visitor) and am a qualified Infant Mas- Show your support for both your team and the troops sage Instructor and Baby Sleep Consultant. I am absolutely dedicated with a Shrewsbury Town Poppy Football Pin. to helping families and working towards achieving your goals for the 0- 3 year age group. £4.99 plus p&p If you feel that you would like some personalised support and advice Buy online. call Jackie, Phone: 07494449993 or 01691 611744 See the link on Email: [email protected]. Shrewsbury Town web site. Website: Babyserenityuk.com

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From Town To Country Jacky’s story I have always wanted to live in the country. Weekends and holidays often ended with “wouldn’t it be lovely?”

Alas, jobs, children, their education, elderly parents, there was always another reason it couldn’t work. Until, one day a chance conversation with our eldest daughter. She and our son-in-law both led very busy, stressful lives in London. We helped by caring for our grandson, along with a couple of nursery days, but there were never enough hours in the day nor days in the week it would seem. “We could always sell up and move to the country” we suggested. And we knew just the place. Over a period of six months we introduced them to Shrop- shire and our favourite area just north of Shrewsbury. After their third visit they put their house on the market and 12 weeks later, in August 2018, moved to Baschurch. A new job for our son-in-law and a first school for our grandson Visit our website at: www.the-queens-head-oswestry.co.uk duly followed. As for our daughter, she was in her element as a stay at home Our full menu is available online Mum. We can cater for most dietary needs Meanwhile we were now able to progress our own move. We had seen a house in West Felton that we loved and to our relief it was still available. We Takeaway available on all our menus 10% discount moved in four months later. Our youngest daughter moved out and has stayed in London. She is happy there for the time being. Although she couldn’t find Shropshire on a map she does enjoy her visits here so we are not giving up hope of her changing her life too. Packing up a house you have lived in for 27 years is no mean feat. Watching all your worldly goods disappear in the removal van was surprisingly scary.

Homely environment - Fully insured - Competitive Rates Would we ever see them again? Cache Level 3 Certificate in Childminding Practice The move took two days so we drove up and stayed overnight with our daugh- ‘pacey’ member. I have vacancies at present. ter and thankfully were reunited with all our possessions the next day at our new home. Please call Sharon 610767 The first few months were busy getting the house how we wanted, although it is an ongoing task, and the next few were spent having family and friends to stay. STEPHEN MORRIS MASTER CHIMNEY SWEEP LTD The summer fete was an enjoyable afternoon and gave a chance to see vil- Fully insured - Est 1989 lage life with many people pitching in and taking part in events. During this time I joined West Felton Walkers. I would recommend it to any 01691 860616 or 07802 655145 newcomer, it’s a great way to meet people. They have a wealth of knowledge Rotary Power Sweeping of Wood / Multi of the local area and, most importantly, know all the best tea and cake shops. Fuel Stoves and Service and Maintenance The WI group is another good way to meet new people. HETAS Approved - NVQ Qualified / APICS Master Member We have had dinners and drinks with several of our neighbours and can hon- Registered with Safe Sweep Trading Standards Approved estly say that they have all been very friendly and welcoming. In the short time (Continued on page 35)

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[email protected] RICHARDS GROUNDWORKS

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

John Richards, Pentre, Nesscliffe Telephone: 07958 156054 / 01743 741503 The West Felton Walking for Health group

have restarted under the following Covid safe rules meeting every Monday 10am Punch Bowl car park:

■ Follow government guidelines at all times ■ DO NOT attend if you feel at all unwell ■ Carry a personal hand sanitizer DOMESTIC / INDUSTRIAL / COMMERCIAL / AGRICULTURAL ■ Carry a face mask (this does not need to be worn un- less a situation arises) • Septic Tank Emptying • Interceptor Emptying • Blocked Drains • Flood Assistance ■ Maintain social distancing of 2 meters and take extra • CCTV Camera Surveys • Sewer Jetting care at pinch points, gates, stiles etc. • Gully Emptying • 24/7 Emergency Callout ■ Should you become unwell get tested and inform one of the walk leaders ASAP Walk leaders:- Mike Bossen 01691 610623 Hilary Iles 01691 610707 John and Eileen Hanmer 01691 610629 CALL SCOTT ON 07581 384345 Liz and Dave Embrey 01691 658275 WWW.FREEFLOWDRAINAGELTD.CO.UK [email protected] Did you know…?

In Switzerland it’s illegal to own just one guinea pig. The country passed a law in 2008 making it illegal to own just one guinea pig at a time, because a cavy, being a social animal, moves around in herds and can get awfully lonely if left without a companion. Thankfully, if one of your fuzzy pets passes away and you're not ready to com- mit to another, Switzerland also allows you to rent a guinea pig for your re- maining pet.

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GREEN HOLLOW (Continued from page 25) WI report In November (Thursday 12th) as previously planned we will hold our Annual VETERINARY SURGERY Meeting as a hybrid meeting, this will mean at least two people who are physically D. W. THURSTON BVetMed MRCVS together to run the meeting and other members joining via Zoom. School Road, Ruyton-X1-Towns, Nr. Shrewsbury We had planned to have Martin Moyden (Moyden’s Cheese) as our speaker in No- vember, who would have given us the opportunity for cheese making and sampling. DOMESTIC PET, HORSE AND FARM ANIMAL PRACTICE As this won’t be possible, we will have Frances Carlaw as our speaker, a former Den- 24-hour Emergency Service - Consultation by appointment man tutor, on the subject of PEARLS. Morning, afternoon and evening surgeries It will also be impossible to hold our usual WI Christmas Fair given the current re- ALL NEW CLIENTS WELCOME strictions in the village hall, though we know so many of you look forward to this event. We will therefore uplift our profile in the village with Christmas in mind by holding a mini WI Christmas market, pop up stall in Punch Bowl car park on Saturday FARM ANIMAL SERVICES : SMALL ANIMAL SERVICES : 28th November 1-3pm. We hope to see you there! The Carnival Christmas tree lights ⚫ Routine Fertility work ⚫ Microchip Identity at Alma Close will be switched on the evening before. ⚫ Herd Health plans ⚫ Diagnostic X-ray & Ultrasound ⚫ Sheep and Goats… ⚫ In-house lab testing We have so much to look forward to because 2021 will be a very special year for ⚫ Alpaca work ⚫ Pet food & accessories ⚫ Free Pet Health advice West Felton Women’s Institute, as we will be celebrating our centenary. The Village WI was founded on 9th October 1921. Unfortunately, we can’t make too many plans just yet as everything is still subject to so much change, but we will definitely enjoy HORSE WORK : ● Wormers (discounts on large quantity) the celebrations in whatever form they take next year. ● ‘Vetting’ pre-purchase/insurance If you would like to know more about West Felton Women’s Institute, please contact the President, Yvette Openshaw on 01691 611645.■

A & M Fencing And Landscaping The WI Community Spirit Lives on through the Covid-19 Pandemic “A Professional And Quality Job Every time” WI KNIT AND NATTER GROUP Sadly we had to abandon our monthly meetings, but that • All TYPES OF FENCING SUPPLIED AND doesn’t mean our hands have been idle. INSTALLED We are delighted to report that we have donated • All TYPES OF PATIO PAVING 13 Children’s jumpers; 6 t shirts/vests; 3 hat/scarf • ARTIFICAL GRASS INSTALLATION sets; 34 woolly hats; 5 warm blankets, • REFERENCES AND PHOTOS OF and other brand new items COMPLETED WORK AVAILABLE to the Oswestry Food Bank where they • FREE QUOTATIONS will be gifted in their special Christmas Parcels for families with small children.

Call Mark on : 07706424865 Email : Whilst this was not our original intention, it seemed a very good use [email protected] or 01691 680767 for these garments in present difficult times. For Foodbank details see page 37 22 31

Painter & Decorator The WI Community Spirit Lives on through the Covid-19 Pandemic All aspects of interior or exterior All the good things that West Felton Women’s Institute have done during decoration undertaken lockdown to keep our WI members connected:

Great Ness - Shropshire Many of our members have been isolating and / or shielding, with very little con- 01743 741172 mobile 07795 262629 tact with the outside world, in the way that was so normal to us before the virus ar- rived. Many of us are attempting to protect ourselves and our loved ones that are so [email protected] close to us. Whilst it has been difficult to go about our daily lives that just a few months ago would have been usual and perhaps a little mundane, it’s been wonder- SUPPLIERS OF COAL, LOGS AND GAS BOTTLES ful to know that we have the Community Spirit and friendship of our fellow WI mem- COAL AVAILABLE IN OPEN TOP SACKS AND bers. Both in and around the village and across the globe, we’ve been able to support PRE PACK BAGS each other in many different ways over the last few months in this rapidly changing ALL FUELS AVAILABLE INC SMOKELESS world which we currently find ourselves. Not to mention that we are so blessed to share our wonderful village and live in such a beautiful area. RING US ON 01743 241122 OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT We’ve had regular newsletters emailed, with some being delivered by hand to www.ridgefuels.co.uk those members not on email. It’s all helped to keep us in touch! We have been able to share our Favourite Recipes, Hints & Tips as well as some amazing photography PLEASE QUOTE REF 002 ON YOUR FIRST ORDER TO GET YOUR and poetry. We had quizzes and crosswords keeping our grey matter on the ball. “NEW” CUSTOMER PACK Many of us have had to embrace technology in a way that we haven’t had the need to before. It has been a huge learning curve for everyone. Pre-lockdown we’d never heard of zoom meetings and already they form part of our regular conversations and virtual meet ups. Almost every one of our members has embraced the opportunity to REDNAL ESTATE take on technology in one form or another, including the number of members not on email which has significantly reduced. Whilst it has been fairly easy for those of us who use tech to keep in touch with our friends and loved ones, whilst we social dis- tance or isolate, some of our members have mastered email for the very first time, COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY with some members now regularly using WFWI Facebook and the West Felton WI WhatsApp Chat in an attempt to stay connected. Whilst many of us are having to face the challenge of learning to work from home, we have all had to learn how to do things differently!

We have been “Sewing for the NHS”. In true WI fashion, several members of the WI Sites A & B Rednal Airfield:- Industrial units, raided whatever fabric and/or yarn that they could get their hands on. I lost count of the number of scrubs laundry bags, masks and comfort straps we have sewn for NHS workshops, hardstanding, lockups, storage, offices staff, along with various care and nursing homes.

We’ve seen many acts of kindness with some of our members, who have been able All Enquiries to go out and about, providing help and support with shopping etc. for the house- bound. Cakes, eggs, produce and other delightful objects have been dropped off or T: 01691 610303 left on doorsteps. In lots of ways we have seen a revival of the marvellous sense of community that West Felton has, giving us all a reason to be cheerful! E-Mail: [email protected] Website: www.rednal.net (Continued on page 25)

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Stokes Tree Works WELCOME TO WEST FELTON … NPTC Qualified Tree Surgeons Ralphs Drive, Congreve Close, West Felton Stores, and all our newer neighbours.

As the saying goes, we’re living in ‘interesting times’ but it is hoped the village is DIFFICULT TREES OUR SPECIALITY quietly waking up again, even if in changed circumstances.

As you will read in this issue, the first in six months, the volunteers have all been Lopping * Felling * Pruning * Shaping working so hard in lockdown to find ways of opening up village organisations in ac- to British Standard Specifications cordance with the ever changing COVID19 regulations. Village hall, churches, WI, the Walkers Group, Badminton, Flexors and other village groups all have their own 01691 870300 or 07811 320982 regulations and issues to deal with. This magazine is produced and delivered entirely by volunteers, funded by donations, and the advertisements which we hope you have found helpful. We have our full com- plement of advertisers at the moment but operate a waiting list. If you would like to advertise a service, let us know and we will let you know as soon as a space becomes available. If you would like to give us a Christmas Box, then cash or cheque would be most gratefully received. We have tried to support our advertisers with an amnesty of charges until April. Just a small gesture, funded by what we saved in printing costs during the break in publication. Input from residents is always welcome, if you have a good story to tell, please feel free to type it up, email to me and I will find a space for it. We especially welcome Mr & Mrs Shah and the little elf in West Felton Stores. We hope they will be happy in West Felton and look forward to seeing them regularly in our one and only and very precious shop. Colleen Hughes Email: [email protected] West Felton CofE Primary

The School Governors met at the end of September. Head Teacher, Helen reports: You may be aware of expansion plans at West Felton CofE Primary School which have been gaining momentum over the last 12 months. Our school has grown in numbers exponentially— almost doubling in the last Border Physiotherapy 15 years and with new builds on the way, this is only set to continue. Whilst demountables have provided extra classroom space, we are still with- Amanda Coxhead MCSP out a large meeting hall where the children could eat, worship, meet together

and play sports on a more regular basis...particularly in the winter months. Stroke Rehabilitation / Paediatrics Our governing body are pro-actively trying to solve these problems and are Home Visits investigating the possibility of a multi-use hall on the school site which could be used by the community out of school hours. We have appointed an architect and we are currently searching for funding www.border-physiotherapy.co.uk and grants which may help support this vital project. ■

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(Continued from page 23) WI Report Home Tutor -Does your child need a little extra support at home? Over the last few months, we’ve held various informal zoom sessions, it has been I am an experienced primary teacher (literacy specialist) able to provide 1-1 private great to see so many familiar faces again, we had speakers from: tutoring sessions in your own home either in the evenings, weekends or during holi- ● Veolia and Waste Management, Shropshire County Council, how they recycle and days. Lessons are individually tailored to meet your child’s needs to increase their process our waste. confidence, enjoyment of learning and accelerate progress. I offer support in read- ● A member of the Shropshire Federation WI’s board told us about Ecobricks, that ing, writing, maths and any other subjects required. I am experienced in teaching was fascinating and informative. The Federation are planning an Ecobrick structure children for whom English is a second language and children with additional needs. I (Table & Seating) to be placed in the Dothill Nature Reserve in Telford. have an up to date CRB and can provide references. For more information call Jean: on 01691 611625 / 07852 247799 ● Gillian one of our lovely members has run several sugar craft make-alongs, sharing her hints and tip to make it all look so easy. Perhaps not quite so easy as Gillian makes it look, but everyone has been very proud of the end results! Since March the WI committee has been able to hold only one “formal” committee meeting, we felt it is important to keep our members connected. It’s clear that we will not be able to hold our usual meetings for some time to come. We cannot meet face to face in person for the time being, sadly our usual meetings have been sus- pended due to the Government restrictions. However we have agreed to restart more formal meetings via Zoom on our normal meeting nights from October 2020, as in the planned programme: Our speaker on the 8th October will be Alison Utting who will tell us about Eglan- tyne Jebb, the story of a local lady who founded ‘Save the Children’. (Continued on page 31)

WI CHRISTMAS MINI MA RKET POP-UP STALL

Punch Bowl car park Saturday 28th November 1 to 3pm We hope to see you there!

CAKES

Garden Services and Paddock maintenance Lawn mowing and scarifying, strimming, hedgecutting, topping, wood chipping / Seasoned logs for sale Fully insured, reliable, friendly service and advice given Christmas Contact Tony on 07850 194933 goodies

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o, here we are, 7 months on from home learning heroes who were awarded medals in recogni- S what has become known as lock- tion of their hard work. down and not once did West Felton CofE The school remained open Primary ever actually lock-down. throughout the summer holi- Yes, we closed to 147 children bounding days—providing much needed through the doors each morning; to whole school assem- child-care, entertainment and blies; to sports days; to church visits and leavers trips and respite and finally…on the we entered a new era of rotas and deep cleans, of key- 2nd September, we could worker provision and hand-wash stations. bring them all back. I have never been We welcomed children from across the Westcliffe Federa- so pleased to see our tribe of royal-blue clad tion. Every morning, our key-worker children could be beasties file through our gates. heard laughing and learning at West Felton as they waved It hasn’t been perfect, it hasn’t been without its challenges goodbye to their amazing parents—doctors, nurses, shop but as a team, we’ve made it work. Parents, staff, governors workers, paramedics and police officers to name just a and children together. few. We will always remember the support we’ve received over the last few months; And what an absolute privilege it the smiles of encouragement; was to be part of—new friend- ships were formed and great the emails of thanks and memories made. the messages of good will. As lock-down eased, we were able to welcome more beasties back. We ploughed through ever-changing West Felton CofE Primary School legislation, we re-organised teams, moved furniture and Preparing for life in all its fullness erected gazebos to make it work. All while the staff at West Felton provided support to parents at home via Seesaw— our online learning platform. We had many lock-down

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