Monday in the month 10.30-12.30 Heaton House. Tuesdays Short Mat Bowling: 2.00pm Martley Memorial Hall Ladies’ Fellowship: 2.30pm 2nd Tuesday in the month (usually) Martley Mums and Tots: 9.30-11.30am Volume 19 No. 7 December 2009 Martley Memorial Hall

Editor: Michelle Higgins (01886888344) Wednesdays Editorial Team: Martley Alan Boon (01886 Teme Valley Shufflers Line Dancing: 888527), Nellie Bradley (01886 888339), Kate 7pm Martley Memorial Hall Enq. Jeff & King (01886 888439); Wichenford Janet Thelma 01886 821772 Andrews (01886 888303), Sheila Richards (01886 888378) Martley Folk Club: 1st Wednesday in Advertising: Aileen Parker. 01886 888456 the month at The Talbot, and Distribution: Martley George & June Lawrence 3rd Wednesday at The Admiral Rodney (01886 821064) Wichenford Karen Furber Martley WI: 2nd Wednesday in the (01886 888449) month 7.30pm Heaton House Contact The Villager: Leave articles at Martley Post Office , call Janet or Sheila (Wichenford) or Thursdays email the Editor at [email protected] Wichenford Wine Club: 3rd Thursday in Opinions expressed by contributors are not the month necessarily those of The Villager. The Villager Martley & District Horticultural cannot be held responsible for any goods or services advertised in the magazine. Society: last Thursday in the month 7.30pm Martley Memorial Hall

See Church Words on page 27 for details of Regular events in Martley services

and Wichenford: See articles inside for details of special events AND changes of time/date/venue of regular Sundays events 2nd Sunday in the month: Teme Valley Farmers Market for local See the Diary page on www.martley.org.uk for produce 11am The Talbot, Knightwick a complete listing of all forthcoming events (that the Diary page editor knows about) Martley Ramblers meet Church car park See page 28 for contact details of organisations 3rd Sunday in the month: Path-or-Nones meet 9.30am Martley Articles to go in The Villager must be Memorial Hall car park to help maintain submitted by the 1st of the the local footpaths previous month

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

December 2009 * The Villager 9 OUT AND ABOUT IN MARTLEY Visit our website—www.martley.org.uk

flatter orchard, arable and Teme lands Martley Circular Walk with the ridge of Rodge Hill—a It rained then as it is raining now glorious celebration of (Sunday 1 November); rained all day ’s finest countryside in fact, the first rain for many weeks. (and ’s eastern borders if Did it detract? Not really, for you look across the Teme). Thursday 15 October was the long- Secondly, in January this year, awaited launch day of, well, a number Martley was awarded ‘Walkers are of things. Welcome’ status. Martley has been Firstly, Worcestershire County doing the welcoming bit for years but Council Countryside Services had there is now a national group that spent some time ‘upgrading’ the loop acknowledges this (www. walk that runs from the walkersarewelcome.org.uk); we Worcestershire Way, starting below became the first in the county to meet the church. There is now a very fine their entry criteria and celebrated this notice board and map of the route. on 15th. Hurray! You might have Over the years this walk has proved a noticed the black and yellow logos in strong draw, combining as it does, the shops and pubs. After a couple of speeches and a tricky ribbon-cutting ceremony (whose scissors were they?), we retired to the Memorial Hall for a first class tea-- sandwiches, cakes n’all, courtesy of WCC (supplied by Sheila of Cherry Tree Cottage). In the hall were stands by the Path-or- Nones, Countryside Services and Earth Heritage Trust. As many know, a 109 miles, just-opened exploring the whole length of the Tony Lewington (L), John Nicklin and others in the Memorial Hall ready to walk 17th European Geopark, runs through

10 The Villager * December 2009 Well Done Congratulations to Edward Faulkner, aged 14yrs, on winning 1st prize to become Local Rotary Young Chef of 2009-10. He will now be entered into the semi-finals. Edward was entered by The Chantry High School and the competition for under-16s was held at Worcester College of Technology on Tuesday 3 November. Housing Growth in Martley An Open Meeting was held in the The new map by the Millennium Green Memorial Hall on 15 October with representatives of local developers, Martley (excellent guide book regarding a proposed new housing available). Natalie Watkins of EHT development on 3.7 hectares of provided a fine display that created agricultural land behind the Post much discussion and interest. Office, Central Stores, Martley Garage As a follow up, at a more convenient and The Crown Inn. The hall was time, walkers met on 24 October to try packed with Martley residents. out some of our many local routes.The Leading the meeting was Mr J. weather was better, though it had Cornwell, of Bell Cornwell, Chartered teased us by raining in the morning. Town Planners, together with two Around 20 took the opportunity to architects, Henry Welton, lawyer for have tea and biscuits at the hall, then Marsden Developments, and a venture off in small groups. We are representative from Affordable happy to do this again if anybody Housing. No one from wants us to. We are particularly keen District Council was present. to attract those who aren’t too A draft layout of the housing confident about stepping off the road development was on view. Martley and we will lead walks or even run lies within the West Midland Regional short courses to teach some of the Strategy. We were told that in the basics. I’ll wait for the flood of letters Malvern Hills Local Plan, there are and emails ([email protected]). four categories. Martley is a Thanks to all who helped make the Category1 settlement area. The events successful—Tony, Ben, housing requirements for S. County, EHT. Worcestershire, including Worcester John Nicklin, City, Malvern Hills and Wychavon are Footpaths Warden for Martley higher than was previously expected. The plan is to build 35 affordable

December 2009 * The Villager 11 houses, plus 48 “open market” houses, brownfield sites was raised. Mr two work/live in units, a new doctors’ Cornwell said this was not possible, surgery and an open children’s play even if a site was available. When area. This would result in a 10% asked how environmentally “green” population increase. In a sometimes the proposed building will be, the heated exchange, many strong architects said it was too early on to be opinions were voiced, and many precise, but it is likely that there will questions asked. Below is a list of the be rainwater/grey water storage put in main points raised: place, as well as solar panels, and • Flooding; The developers have possibly ground-source heat-pumps. consulted SUDS, and a full It was generally agreed that Martley assessment and report had been needed some affordable housing for made. local families. It was also • Increased traffic; Consultations had unanimously agreed that farmland of been made, and the site considered this sort should continue to grow food, suitable. rather than be used for houses with the • Drainage including Sewage; consequence of more mouths to feed. existing sewage works were The desire and need for locally-grown considered adequate. and sourced food is increasing, so in a • Schools; This has not been rural area, this should be of high discussed. importance. Most agreed that a • Ecological impact; An ecological development as large as this would survey had been carried out. result in at least 100 more vehicles Nothing in the report suggested the using our already-congested country land in question was unsuitable for roads and lanes, as well as the ultimate development. (WWT was not urbanisation of a rural village. consulted in this). If you feel strongly about any of the Many people were deeply concerned issues raised here, please contact about the visual impact that so many Martley Parish Council, and/or write new houses would have on this in person to: unspoilt part of the village. The issues Council, Planning Applications of additional noise and light pollution (Development Control), Council were also raised. There will be two House, Avenue Road. Malvern WR14 acres of allotments provided, but when 3AF. asked if this was separate, or only as Some useful facts: part of the overall development, the Martley falls within the South developers were unable to confirm. Worcestershire Joint Core Strategy Two acres was not considered (SWJCS). This is the biggest planning sufficient, considering there are over document in Worcestershire, and will 16 people already requesting a plot. provide strategic direction for all The question of building on development in the southern districts.

12 The Villager * December 2009 There are proposals to build 24,500 Martley Millennium Green new homes in the three districts of Trust Malvern Hills, Wychavon, and (Registered Charity No. 1076295) Worcester city. Consultation events Our Annual General Meeting will be will be taking place throughout the held in the Village Hall at 7.30 pm on towns and the villages between now Tuesday 1 December 2009. The and the end of March 2010. There was meeting will be as informal as one in Upton recently. A timetable for possible and will provide an the villages is currently being prepared opportunity to review progress and and it is an opportunity for local needs discuss current priorities. We shall be for such uses as allotments, open very pleased to see you and any ideas space, community facilities etc to be or thoughts you may have about future identified. plans for the Green will be most See www.swjcs.org : On the Malvern welcome. Hills District Local Plan, the area put T.Lewington forward for development is in area QL24, defined as an Area of Village Hall News Outstanding Landscape Value. Please pop along and check out the Area (shaded yellow) QL17, (known fresh look of the Hall. We have been locally as The Nubbins), lies on the working hard to improve and update boundary of the proposed the appearance of the hall and hope development. This shading indicates a you like it. We have received many Site of Regional or Local Wildlife bookings and are planning hard for the Importance, and also a Regionally Village Hall Christmas Fare held on Important or Geomorphological Site. 29 November. This area (The Nubbins) is part of the (When you read nationally-important and this hopefully Malvern Hills Geopark. you'd have paid Worcestershire Wildlife Trust is us a visit).We are working alongside the three councils still looking for to ensure that all developments put volunteers to join forward in the lifetime of the Local us on the Plan will be sensitive to its local committee or if environment and provide significant you are not able to give us this time enhancements for wildlife as a matter perhaps you could co-ordinate a of course, and not as an add-on extra. fundraising event alone or alongside Contact Steve Bloomfield, WWT the committee to help with funds. We Planning Officer, on 01905 754919, or are currently reviewing and costing by email: the heating system and cavity wall/loft [email protected] installation in the hall. A. Hill Does anyone know of a company who

December 2009 * The Villager 13 would kindly re-paint the white lines receive information about exercise and outside the village hall - ideally they healthy eating to encourage them to need to be painted with the same paint live an overall healthier life. All used in the middle of roads as it's so participants completing the expensive? The Committee would like programme will receive a ‘Heart to thank members of the village for Smart’ award. their continued support and wish you For more information about the Heart all a Merry Christmas and Prosperous Smart programme or for any other New Year. information about the Teme Valley Martley 100 Club Children’s Centre please contact Sam October winner is Mr T A Parkes of Billingham on 01886 812982. Willow Green who has won £35.00 - congratulations. (All renewal forms to be returned to me before January please) Martley WI Annette Smith

Wednesday 9 December 7.30pm Heaton House It was disappointing that the Elgar Teme Valley Views from Group meeting we were hosting in the Teme Valley Children’s Centre November was cancelled for lack of A new initiative supported by the support, but Autumn is always such a Teme Valley Children’s Centre is busy time, especially in the last few called Heart Smart Homes. This weeks before Christmas. So many programme is all about improving parents and grandparents are involved security for you and your home, in in half-term activities. particular, making your home ‘fire We are having a ‘Celebration of safe’. The four-week programme helps Christmas’ in Martley Church on families make their home fire safe and Saturday 5 December at 3pm in which smoke free and the aim of the course we hope members of the Elgar Group is to increase the confidence will join us. Also, of course family, participants have in the friends and anyone who safety of their home. would like to join in the Useful tips about fire singing of carols and safety will be provided by listening to one or two the fire brigade when they Christmassy poems and make a free home visit in stories. week three of the course. This month we have In addition to advice on Christmas Entertainment fire safety, families will with Tony and Ann

14 The Villager * December 2009 Benbow, so it sounds seasonal and number of very beautiful and unusual should be fun. The competition is a ones. Last but not least John has raised decorated candle. Why not come and £250,000 by opening his lovely join us, you won’t need a lighted private garden for charities. candle to find the way. Now for the Specialities. Lewisias is a Kate King plant name after Carl Meriwether Lewis in 1806 – you can go abroad for two weeks and it won’t need watering! Cyclamen species (corms can last up to 80 years!); auriculas (have their petals dressed for shows!); hepaticas (very expensive indeed!) – these grow in Japan, USA and Korea; hellebores – Martley and District Horticultural a huge collection and some fantastic Society colours, pollinated with tweezers and ‘Topical Tips’ was as usual the first a brush! More ‘specials’ included item on the menu at the October anemone parvonina, hydrangeas and Meeting, and Chairman, Mike salvias. Howard’s slides were superb Dunnett, recommended Autumn and he told us all about each species tidying and checking, such as brush or and how to grow them successfully. blow leaves off lawns, clean slippery He had funny stories too. A very paths, patios etc and make sure your enjoyable and educational evening. hosepipe won’t split when it’s frosty. Members Christmas Dinner is on Also check outside light bulbs! As Friday 4 December. The new usual Mike had brought some plants to programme will be out! show us, but this time he’d got them in Tina Steele a black bag. This saved him getting mugged between his car and the Hall. Martley Ramblers Oh yes, members are very keen Another season of walks over already. gardeners. There is no walk this month as the After the plant discussion we settled weather can be unpredictable. At the down for an evening with Howard recent AGM, the programme for 2010 Drury (a TV presenter and journalist), was drawn up and details for the first who gave his illustrated talk “40 Years one for the New Year will be in the of Ashwood Specialities” which was January issue of The Villager. Happy about how this West Midland Nursery Christmas to all came into being, its self-taught owner and keep your John Massey, and his amazing boots polished and achievements in winning 48 gold ready. medals for a wide range of plants, as Kate King well as breeding and propagating a

December 2009 * The Villager 15 Pudford Lane needed there. The Clerk is to seek The on-going saga of Lane folk advice regarding grants and contact Welcome to the family who have Martley Recreation Association. moved into Spring Meadow. We hope CSO Smith reported that: (1) A they will be very happy there. The suspicious vehicle has been reported fabulous view across the valley to by parishioners. The car is a dark blue Bredon and beyond almost gives the estate car and is fairly new. The driver impression of sitting on a perch. It has been described as big build, must be hard to concentrate on more blonde hair and smartly dressed. The mundane everyday jobs when a last sighting was near to the church. If glimpse from the window is just there. anybody does see this car please note The mysterious yellow signs in the the registration number and telephone lane were obviously to guide the the Police on 0300 333 3000 Highways workmen as most of the immediately. (2) Recent burglaries holes have now been filled in. This include a lawn mower taken from month’s BIG Question is: will the Church Steps, a car washer taken from fillings survive the winter rains and a local farm on the way to Clifton (3) ice? We shall just have to wait and see Some vandalism had occurred at the if the infamous Pudford Glacier re- cricket pavilion. appears and forces them out and down Chair opened the meeting at 20:18pm. to the main road. Or will the Minutes: incredibly large delivery lorries that It was resolved to accept the minutes try to get up the lane most days, as a true record. following the faulty sat-nav directions Co-option of Councillors: force out the tarmac? Watch this space Mrs Karen Metcalfe and Mr Tyrone if you are interested. Fearnehough will be joining the Parish Kate King Council from the next meeting as Parish Councillors. Martley Parish Council Progress reports: Unapproved, draft edited minutes of The Clerk - The Clerk has written to the meeting held on Monday 5 St. Peters Court regarding grass October 2009 at the Memorial Hall cutting and will refer to reply under There were 10 members of the public correspondence. The Clerk is awaiting present. a reply from the Police regarding The Democratic Period/Public financial assistance for improvements Question Time to the weighbridge and the reason that A Representative of Martley surgeries have moved to The Chantry. Recreation Association confirmed that County Councillor Davies is looking clearing work has started at the play into the map. The Lengthsman has area. A quotation of £18,000 had been been asked to look at overgrown received to carry out ground work hedges. Bottle banks on The Crown

16 The Villager * December 2009 car park have been moved away from planning application. the road to a location nearer The Highways - The Clerk and Nubbins end of the car park. The Councillors identified work Clerk is to write to The Crown outstanding on Highways report. The regarding the broken glass where the Clerk will check the reported faults bins were sited. The Clerk has log for the next meeting. requested signs for the top and bottom District and County Councillors’ of Hillend Bridge Lane. The Clerk has reports: asked MHDC again if they can notify District Cllr. Mrs. Williams reported the Parish Council when there is to be that the Abberley-Martley walk will an organised cycle event. The Clerk is be launched on the 15 October 2009 to write to Bank of Ireland asking for congratulated the Path-or-Nones on the account to be closed and all their hard work towards this Councillors will need to sign the letter achievement. as current signatories. Planning: Landowners support – ditch An open public meeting with Malvern clearance - The Clerk is to send to Architects will take place on Thursday County Cllr Davies a copy of the letter 15 October 2009 at 7.30pm to discuss sent to Highways requesting the application they are currently permission to clear the ditches. formulating on behalf of Marsten County Cllr. Davies might have Developments Ltd to develop the land funding for ditch clearance. adjoining The Crown Inn. Lengthsman - The Clerk advised the New Parish Council that she has heard 09/01195/HOU New House Farm, nothing from the lengthsman. The Hope House Lane – Proposed garage. Clerk will find out from CALC/ 09/01209/TPA Apartment 1, MHDC what qualifications are Laugherne House – Reduce one lime required for a Lengthsman then by 30%. advertise for one and write to Mr. R. Pending Wilks terminating his contract. The 09/00752/OUT Horsham Court, Chairman thanked Cllr. Mr. T. Gale Horsham – Erection of dwelling. and Cllr. Mr. R. McHugh for installing 09/00751/FUL & 09/00750/LBC the new bins in the centre of the Stables at Horsham Court – village. Conversion to create new dwelling Allotments - The Clerk confirmed that with new garages. 09/00749/FUL The the landowner will discuss rent, Old Court, Horsham – Refurb. of conditions, etc. The landowner derelict former house with 2 storey requested that discussion is held extn. & new garage. 09/00662/FUL & following the open meeting on the 15 09/00663/LBC Rodge Hill Farm, October 2009 as allotment Hillside – Conversion of barns to form requirements may be met by the staff and guest accommodation.

December 2009 * The Villager 17 Permitted included: WCC – Grants Information; 09/01182/TCN Martley Court Barns – Cheryl Phillips – Grass cutting; Karin Fell trees and reduce hawthorn. Logan – Post. There were several Refused Items for information None. Councillors reports and items for Appealing to Secretary of State future agenda: 08/01169/FUL Treetops Bungalow, Cllr Mr. Richard McHugh is to find Hillside – Replacement of existing out where to obtain further signs dwelling (on-going) 08/01498/FUL relating to dog mess. The Clerk will Longside, Hipplecote – Replacement find out when Hollins Lane is due to dwelling (on-going) 09/00423/FUL be resurfaced as horses are finding it Bramblewood, Hipplecote – slippy. Cllr Mr. Richard McHugh is to Replacement dwelling (on-going) contact Highways regarding the recent Speed signs: drainage work undertaken on Jury The Clerk is to write to County Cllr. Lane. Councillors are to provide the Mr. A. Davies for information about Clerk with a list of hedges causing availability, cost for poles, etc. of the concern over road-users safety. County Council’s roving unit. The Date of next meeting: Clerk is to arrange a demonstration The next meeting will be held on from both Westcotec and 3M. Monday 2 November 2009. Map: Cllr Mrs. D. Goodyear will meet with Martley’s Past Mr Gosling who has kindly offered to I was intrigued by an entry in Michael help repair the current notice board. Grundy’s column in the 8 October Possibly put the Path-or-Nones map 2009 issue of the Berrows Journal on the notice board until funding can headed, 250 Years Ago: “A few days be obtained. Minutes and agenda since, one William Bullock, a might be transferred to the bigger blacksmith of Martley, near parish notice board. Worcester, aged 90, was married to Finance: Elizabeth Merrell, aged about 15.” I There were 6 cheques totalling decided to see what happened. I first £1381.88 approved. The Parish found a baptism of Wm Bullock – Council accepted the cost for the bapt. 26 September 1708, son of lettering of the names for the Freedom James and Elizabeth Bullock. (So, in of Martley Boards, which will be 1759 was aged 50). I found no record around £50.00. It might be possible to of Elizabeth’s baptism. Then I found use any grant money from County their marriage – 4 February 1768, Cllr. Davies for hedge cutting as well William Bullock (widower) married as ditch clearance. Elizabeth Merrell. Next came Wm Correspondence: Bullock’s burial, on 5 September 1774 Items for decision/discussion (aged 66).

18 The Villager * December 2009 Then Elizabeth Bullock (nee Morell) re-married 10 December 1778, Burns Supper Abraham Thrupp. Then they have 4 After two successful years children: John, bapt. 3 October 1779; at Wichenford Village Hall Susannah, bapt 6 July 1783; 6 where we sold out of tickets February 1785, Abraham, son of Abr each time the Burns Supper and Eliz; 29 March 1789, William. All committee have decided to the children’s burials are recorded: move the venue to Martley Susannah’s on 15 February 1786 Village Hall which will give (aged 2 ½); William’s on 10 March us added space to have more 1813 (age 24); Abraham’s on 8 March guests. 1814 (age 20) and John’s on 8 The Burns Night supper will September 1835 (aged 56). My be on Friday 29 January records finish in 1837, so I have no 2010. Full details of this record of when Elizabeth, or her event will be available in the second husband Abraham, died, but January issue of The she survived her four children. Villager but in the meantime Alan Boon. if you would like to pre- book your tickets please contact: Martley Library Opening Times James Hyslop 01886 Monday 2—7 pm 888359 or Sheila Richards Wednesday 4—6 pm 01886 888378 Thursday 10am -1 pm Friday 2 - 4 pm Saturday 10am -12 noon 01886 888396 (opening hours only)

The Villager would like to wish all its readers, old and new, a very happy Christmas

December 2009 * The Villager 19 Over the Garden Wall in Wichenford WICHENFORD NEEDS YOUR NEWS

Janet Andrews 01886 888303 Sheila Richards 01886 888378

Ladies Fellowship Flower Rota The Ladies Fellowship will hold their 6 December Advent – no flowers Christmas Meeting in the Memorial 13 December Advent – no flowers Hall. Date yet to be arranged. 20 December Christmas decorations 27 December Christmas decorations Santa Visits the Hospital A story ... Wichenford 100 Club It was seven days before Christmas October winners No. 91 K Webb when Santa Claus arrived at the hospi- £75.00 and returned subscriptions of tal to visit the children’s ward. Stop- £12.00 to No. 204 P Turner & No. 213 ping at each bed, Santa asked in his J Hardy. Drawn by David Rendall jovial way what gift each child wished A big thank you to all those who have for on Christmas Day. Moving along so promptly renewed their subscrip- the ward he finally came to the last tions for 2009 - 2010. We still have a bed where a small boy was lying. few outstanding subs so if you hold a When asked what he wished for, qui- number and you haven't renewed, etly he said - “Thank you Santa, but please use the address label left with do you think that if I am really good, you and drop off or post the £12, or instead of a present I could have a contact me on 888239 wish granted by God? Then I could PS We do have a couple of members wish He would make me so well that I who cannot be traced, so if you have may go home and spend Christmas ever had a number and would like to with my Mummy who is now all continue please give me a ring. New alone.” Somewhat surprised Santa re- members are very welcome. Phone if plied, “I am sure if you are good and you would like to join. you pray, then God will listen and The more members, the more in the hear what you say.” pot and the more there is to win! When leaving the Hospital, Santa was Heather Rendall told by the nurse that the child was

20 The Villager * December 2009 very ill and she feared for the worse. She was truly convinced that before Christmas Day the little boy would have sadly passed away. (To be con- tinued next month.) Derrick Jinks Congratulations Congratulations to Naomi Brookes on her appointment as the Royal Acad- emy of Engineering, European Con- struction Institute Research Professor in Project Management at Loughbor- Mobile Library ough University. Naomi is a former Ockeridge pupil of Wichenford C of E School. Silver Oaks 9.45–10.05 She wishes to say that she has very Wichenford fond memories of all the teachers and Malvern View 10.10–10.35 also Mrs Hancock, Mrs Ledbury and Church 10.45–11.05 Kings Green Farm 11.15–11.40 Mrs Holliday and is grateful for an ex- Rosses Green 11.45–12.05 cellent start to her education . Well Martley Hillside done Naomi, we are proud of you. Horn Lane Bungalows 12.10–12.25 Martley Taylors of Martley 12.30–12.45 LUNCH Heaton House 1.20–1.50 Church. 1.55–2.15 Clifton Film Society Village Hall 2.30–3.50

There is no film in December, but The Mobile Library will be visiting these we start again on 16 January 2010 stops on Wednesdays on the dates listed with Notes on a Scandal. below: 9 Dec 2009 30 Dec 2009 Any enquiries should be made to Stourport See details of the Little Witley Library, Worcester Street, Stourport, Film Society on the Leisure page Worcs DY13 8EH, tel: 01299-822866, [email protected] of www.martley.org.uk or phone Jean Latham on 01886 888888122 or Bob Jose on 01886 888383.

December 2009 * The Villager 21 Harvesting the Past

ifteen volunteers wanted! I hope you will all come and watch it! Please read on... The play dates are 28, 29 and 30 April and 1 May. Firstly, thank you for In September we held auditions for the followingF the progress of our oral play, and now have a cast of more history project ‘Harvesting the Past’ – than 60, including students from the it has been lovely to have support and Chantry, several local people interest in the community. The project including four octogenarians, and a aims to record the stories and group of May Pole dancers from memories of those who grew up in the Martley Primary. The play’s producer area, and then find ways of sharing Sue Rickman, Chantry’s Head of these stories with the community. One Drama, says that rehearsals are of those ways is a community play, progressing well and that she and the which has been especially written for cast are thoroughly enjoying turning the project by local playwright John the oral history stories into drama. We Townsend and will be performed at the Chantry High School next April. Over the summer John had the daunting task of turning about 50 hours of recordings into a 90 minute play. It is entitled ‘Back Across the Fields’ and is set on a farm somewhere in the Martley, Clifton and Wichenford area Interviewees Sheila Smith, Gladys Hoskins and Bert Bradley between 1942 and (behind) auditioning for ‘Back Across the Fields’, while 1947. I think John playwright John Townsend (right) looks on. has done an excellent job of weaving together all the would love more help from the recorded stories and adding some community, so if you are interested in drama to create a play which is helping backstage, making props or instructive, delightful and compelling. costumes or getting involved in any

22 The Villager * December 2009 other way, please get in touch with Sue Rickman at the Chantry. We are now taking on another challenge, and need volunteers, please! One of the aims of this project is to teach the youngsters about the way of life in Martley and Wichenford over the past century. The Chantry’s Head of Art, Richard Aydon, has come up with a unique way of doing this. We want about 15 people from the community to come into school for about an hour in January to talk to a small group of children about their lives. This could include showing them old photos and may be old- fashioned tools of their trade or Saturday 5 December household implements that the 3pm Martley WI are holding a children may not have seen before. ‘Celebration of Christmas’ in The children will then create a rather Martley Church. All welcome. special piece of artwork based on what Sunday 20 December they see and hear. All will be on 8.00pm Christmas Quiz at The display in the school in April when the Admiral Rodney (David will play is being performed. We would be love to hear from anyone who is supplying some of the happy to be involved and share a bit of questions) their past with the younger generation.

Please contact Sue Broome on 01299 Wednesday 23 December 251512 or Julia Letts on Julia. 8.00pm Onwards – Carols at [email protected]. The Admiral Rodney

(There are no doubt many other festive events, but these are the only ones the Editor knows about)

December 2009 * The Villager 23 is the website of the popular magazine In the Garden and has a selection of short video clips demonstrating growing techniques. PS Don't forget bird food in that Christmas shopping list ! JC

In the Garden in December You probably don't want to be work- ing outside for long at this time of year; the days are short and Christmas takes up much of any 'spare' time. Re- member to cut some holly early if you want berried branches for Christmas. Cut a branch leaving plenty of woody stem, then push the cut stem into Malvern Opera Society damp soil in a polytunnel or green- For Those Who Don’t Sing house. It needs to be kept moist to Well, you can sing if you want...but keep the berries fresh. not at our meetings, because Malvern Apple and pear trees can be pruned Opera Society (MOS) is about going now and you can apply grease bands to the opera—not singing in them. As to protect the trees from winter moth I sing like a foghorn this is very good grubs. Grape vines and gooseberries news... can also be pruned and you can cut The Society was started two years ago back summer-flowering clematis to a by a small of group of people in and pair of strong buds. It is possible to around Malvern who were interested sow early varieties of broad beans in going to operas. It is open to every- now, but ones sown in the spring catch one in the Malverns and the surround- up quite quickly and are less likely to ing area and I’ve had a great time be dug up by mice. since I joined. Last season I went to Why not try a little indoor gardening? see La Rondine by Puccini in a live There are excellent websites to ex- broadcast from the Metropolitan Op- plore. Two of the best for gen- era House, New York to eral interest and advice are a cinema in Cheltenham; those of the Royal Horticultural The Elixir of Love by Society, rhs.org.uk and the Donizetti performed by Beeb, bbc.co.uk/gardening . Welsh National Opera Two smaller websites with em- (WNO) in Cardiff and phasis on vegetable growing are Katya Kabanova by gardenorganic.org.uk and Janacek performed by kitchengarden.co.uk .The latter the English Touring Op-

24 The Villager * December 2009 era in Cheltenham. This season I’m off to Monmouth to see Turandot, Mo- zart’s Abduction from the Seraglio by Dedicate a Light of Love the WNO in Birmingham, Britten’s A Dedicate a light to a loved one Midsummer Night’s Dream in Chel- in memory or as a gift this tenham and Bryn Terfel singing his Christmas. The main event was heart out in the WNO’s production of at Worcester Cathedral, Wagner’s The Meistersinger. Puccini’s followed by the switching on of Turandot is a simultaneous transmis- the Lights of Love on the sion from New York and the other Christmas tree at St Andrew's three are live performances. Spire, Deansway. This lovely You get a discount on the tickets, a event took place on Friday13 coach to get you there and back, excel- November. You are also lent company and someone else to sort welcome to join our event in out the hassle of getting the tickets and and at The Priory, Malvern, on the transport. What’s even better is Tuesday 15 December at 6pm. that every two or three months there is To dedicate a Light of Love, a MOS meeting in Malvern Theatre at visit www.strichards.org.uk/ which an expert gives an illustrated lightsoflove or telephone 01905 talk on an opera that you are going to 763963 see. As opera is one of the few enter- tainments where you really have to know the story beforehand, this is enormously helpful. Silver Christmas We are still booking for the 2009/2010 Greetings Poster season if you are interested in joining Save time and money this us. Membership costs £10 for one or Christmas with one of the St two people at the same address. For Richard’s Hospice special silver further details look at the website anniversary giant Christmas www.malvernoperasociety.org.uk , Card posters. Instead of sending and for the low-down on membership cards to colleagues/your local contact Martin Addison on 01905 group/your church, write a 458537 or e-mail: message on our poster and make [email protected] a donation to the hospice. Val Fare Simply email Joanna on Malvern Opera Society [email protected] or call 01905 763963 to request your poster and we will also send a special donations envelope.

December 2009 * The Villager 25

Church Words The Rectory 01886 888664

he Christmas Story: what stories take on greater significance, happened? How many of us some become part of our nation’s T can recount the story? Have heritage, some become what are we read the book and seen the film known as ‘meta narratives’ (sorry, the and got the T shirt, as they say? Mary big stories) around which our culture and Joseph, shepherds and wise men, is based. Such stories shape culture angels and Herod - do we know the and shape our lives. The Christmas story? Story is one such story passed on to us According to recent research (Theos). through culture and time and it only 12% of adults know the facts of continues to affect lives today. the Christmas story in any detail – the But why should the Christmas story be figure dropping to just 7% amongst important for us to know in the 21st 18-24 year olds. This may surprise us century? It’s a story of how God especially if we know the story well, himself became one of us and laid but we have to ask how did we learn aside all his glory to bring us good the story? Was it Sunday School, news. About the obedience of Joseph Church, school, or family? Stories are and Mary, about hope given to passed on; we all do it, something shepherds and honour offered by wise happens to us and we share that men. It’s a story that transcends time experience with others. Some of these and culture. It is a story of incarnation, of Emmanuel, God with us, yesterday today and forever. So how will others hear this story? It needs the Church, Schools and families to continue to tell the Story, for each one of us to apply it to our lives. May the story of Christmas continue to bring you its eternal message of love joy and peace, this Christmas and always. God Bless Revd David Sherwin

26 The Villager * December 2009 Church Services for December

Tue 1 Dec 10am Holy Communion – St Mary Magdalene, Wed 2 Dec 10.15 Morning Prayer, St Peter, Martley Thu 3 Dec 9.00am Morning Prayer, St Laurence, Wichenford SUN 6 DECEMBER 8am Holy Communion, Knightwick Chapel 10.30am Holy Communion, St Laurence, Wichenford 10.30am Morning Worship, St Mary Magdalene, Broadwas 4.00pm Christingle, St Peter, Martley 6.30pm Evensong, St Leonard, Mon 7 Dec 9.00am Morning Prayer, St Laurence, Wichenford Tue 8 Dec 10.00am Morning Prayer, St Mary Magdalene, Broadwas Wed 9 Dec 10:15am Holy Communion, Heaton House Thu 10 Dec 9.00am Morning Prayer. St Laurence, Wichenford SUN 13 DECEMBER 8am Holy Communion, St Leonard, Cotheridge 10.30am Holy Communion, St Peter, Martley 10.30am Morning Prayer, St Mary Magdalene, Broadwas 4.00pm Christingle, St Laurence, Wichenford Tue 15 Dec 10.00am Holy Communion, St Mary Magdalene, Broadwas Wed 16 Dec 10.15 Morning Prayer, St Peter, Martley Thu 17 Dec 9.00am Morning Prayer, St Laurence, Wichenford Fri 18 Dec- 8.00pm Onwards - Carols at the Masons Arms. SUN 20 DECEMBER 8am Holy Communion, St Peter, Martley 3pm Carol Service, Knightwick Chapel 4pm Carol Service, St Laurence, Wichenford 6.00pm Carol Service, St Peter, Martley 6.30pm Carol Service, St Mary Magdalene, Broadwas 8.00pm Christmas Quiz at The Admiral Rodney (David will be supplying some of the questions) Mon 21 Dec 9.00am Morning Prayer, St Peter, Martley Tue 22 Dec 10.00am Morning Prayer, St Mary Magdalene, Broadwas Wed 23 Dec 10:15am Holy Communion, Heaton House 8.00pm Onwards – Carols at The Admiral Rodney Thu 24 December – Christmas Eve 4pm Crib Service, St Laurence, Wichenford 5pm Crib Service, St Mary Magdalene, Broadwas 10pm Holy Communion, St Laurence, Wichenford 11.30pm Holy Communion, St Peter, Martley 11.30pm Holy Communion, St Mary Magdalene, Broadwas Fri 25 December – Christmas Day 9am Holy Communion, St Leonard, Cotheridge 10.30am Family Worship, St Peter, Martley SUN 27 DECEMBER 10.30am Benefice Holy Comm’n, St Mary Magdalene, B’was

December 2009 * The Villager 27 Village Contacts

Editor of The Villager Michelle Higgins [email protected] or 01886 888344 or leave articles at Martley Post Office Advertise in The Villager Aileen Parker—01886 888456 Church Rector: Revd David Sherwin—01886 888664 or (Worcestershire West [email protected] Rural Team) Curate: Revd Bruce Thomson—01886 888098 Assistant Priest: Revd Jennifer Whittaker—01886 833897 Martley Parish Council Chair: Dave Cropp—01886 888398; Clerk: Sally Williams—01299 832949 Martley WI President: Helen CoombeyJones—01886 888294 Martley & District Pam Minchin—01886 888521 or Margaret Jackson— Horticultural Society 01886 888654 Royal British Legion Joyce Tyler—01886 821551 Martley Ramblers Harry King—01886 888439 Martley Young Farmers Lou Wickens—01886-812754 or Caroline Bullock— 01905-333617 Path-or-Nones John Nicklin—01886 888318 [email protected] Resource Centre Alan Boon—01886 888527 Police “Surgery” CSO Matt Smith 7184—Martley Local Policing Team Police Station extn. 3581 Martley Website [email protected] Martley Web Mesh Richard Jackman—01886 821237 [email protected] John Layton—01886888460 [email protected] Tom Pearsall—01886 888256 [email protected] Martley Pre-School Kath/Lucy—01886 889127 www.martleypreschool.co.uk Wichenford contacts for Janet Andrews—01886 888303 or Sheila Richards—01886 The Villager 888378 Kenswick & Wichenford Clerk—Shirley Sanders 01886 888302 Parish Council Wichenford Wine Club Chairman—Bill Hylan 01886 888431 Wichenford Local Heather Rendall—01886 888239 Heritage Group

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

28 The Villager * December 2009 ust to get you in the mood for you-know-what, here are some of J last year’s (always the best …) cracker jokes:

Q. What must you know to be an auctioneer? A. Lots

Q. Why did the chicken run onto the football pitch? A. Because the referee blew for a foul

Q. What is yellow and white and goes down the track at 100 mph? (unless it is on the to London, of course—Ed.) A. The train driver’s egg sandwich

Q. Who is the most famous married woman in America? A. Mrs Sippi

Q. How do snails keep their shells shiny? A. They use snail varnish

Q. Why don’t ducks tell jokes? A. Because they would quack up

December 2009 * The Villager 29