Full colour issue online BIDDESTONE & SLAUGHTERFORD NEWS www.biddestone.org.uk

Biddy Arms development meeting:

Local Walks Pub Quiz Bingo

Slaughterford Saunter Gardening Culture

March 2020 Issue 471 What’s on at the WHITE HORSE

MARCH Mon 2nd Bridge Club 7:00pm LIVE MUSIC! Sat/Sun 7th & 8th MONTHLY OPEN Six Nations Rugby on TV MIKE NIGHTS Thur 12th World’s Biggest Dates TBC Pub Quiz 8:00pm (Pubs across UK are OPENING HOURS participating- reserve Monday – Friday RESTAURANT a table early!) 11.30 to 2.30pm Weds-Fri 11.30 to 2.30pm 5.30 to 10.00pm (11.00pm Fri) & 6.00 to 9,00pm Sat 14th Six Nations Saturday 11.30 to 2.30pm Saturday 11.30 to 11.00pm Rugby on TV (final round) Sunday 12.00 to 4.00pm Sunday 12.00 to 7.00pm Sun 22nd Mothering Sunday full Lunch Menu Take Away  01249 713 350 (Reservations required) Menu to make a restaurant reservation available Last meal orders 15 mins before restaurant closing time

Please check our facebook page for updates: www.facebook.com/TheWhiteHorseBiddestone/

SAVE THE DATE 12th – 14th June 2020

24 walks in and around Corsham Walks for all ages and abilities www.corshamwalkingfestival.org.uk @corshamwalkfest #corshamwalkfest

2 EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Editorial March 2020

[email protected] Welcome to the March issue, hopefully Many of you will have noticed the new Storm Ciara, Dennis etc. are all behind speed indicators as you enter the village, EDITOR us now! And it should be safe to venture it is hoped that these will remind people Linda Lobl-Smith, Home Farm 714475 outside without being swept off your feet to slow down and stick to the speed limit by high speed wind and rain. If it’s time whilst driving through the village. Let us TREASURER to tackle the garden, then we have advice know if they have had that effect on you! Annalisa Duff for you on page 5. There are plenty of local outdoor activities happening to The developers who have purchased Jo Holder inspire you, there is lambing at Lackham the Biddestone Arms site are holding a Alison Fovargue and bluebell walks in the woods. meeting in the hall on the 16th March, it Julie Walton is vital that as many people as possible June Pearce If you are in the mood for a spring clean attend this, it often happens that a poor then do remember to put things aside for response means that ‘no objection’ can DESIGN the Fete stalls in June, the newly invig- be recorded against public consultation. Chris Draper, Richard Eccleston, orated committee are gearing up for this See page below. Liz Turner popular village event, see below. Likewise, the Parish Meeting in April, If the evenings are still a bit nippy then make a note in your diaries, it is an op- why not join in the World’s Biggest Pub portunity to have your say about village GET INVOLVED Quiz at the White Horse on Thursday matters. 12th March. Biddestone Broadsheet and the village website seek to reflect the life and in- terests of the villages of Biddestone and Slaughterford. Written contributions are invited from readers on any subject that will be of interest. Photos, drawings Biddestone Fete 2020 and art work would also be welcome. At this time of year thoughts turn popular demand…Mark Saturday June Email accounts are often set up to longingly to summer… Hazy, golden 27th in your dairies. The countdown to compress images so they can be sent afternoons; Pimms with iced fruits; summer has begun. more quickly, but we need photos to be light-hearted games and jollity; sumptu- high resolution. So, when sending photos ous cream teas; long-cherished tradi- The Village Fete Committee is welcom- by email, please attach a file, preferably tions; friends and merriment; musical ing Ingrid, Nicole, June and Francesca a .jpg, and send it ‘Actual size’ or ‘Large strains floating by, as one browses books, to the team. June is taking over all rota ‘if possible. clothes, bargains… all on a picturesque responsibilities from Helen Perrett who Any opinions expressed or implied with- village green in Wiltshire. we would like to thank for all her tireless in this publication are not necessarily work and dedication over the years and those of the Editor or Committee and Forget Wimbledon; forget Henley; forget Ingrid has taken over from Anita no responsibility can be accepted for Ascot… the best of British summertime Powell as Chair of the Fete; a key role errors on these pages. We reserve the happens here in North Wiltshire, with that makes everything happen and we right to amend or edit any items sub- the much-loved Biddestone Fete. There would like to extend our huge thanks to mitted for inclusion, we will, of course, will be new stalls 2020 and of course our Anita for all her patience, hard work and endeavour to be as accurate as possible. cherished regular features will return, by passion over the past six years. ● Last copy date is the third Friday in the month, copy should be sent to the Editor at the email address above. VILLAGE WEBSITE

www.biddestonevillage.org.uk

A full colour version of the Broadsheet is available on the website. If you do not wish to have your contact details published online then please make the editor aware of your preference. Any other notices or contributions to be posted specifically on the website should be sent to the email address at the top of the page. ● To post an item on the Biddestone Village Website or Facebook page please contact the Editor Linda Lobl-Smith Cover photo: Julie Walton Julie photo: Cover

3 Recipes by Annalisa Duff

Butternut squash soup for 8

Ingredients:

Butternut squash (appprox 1.5kg) Large onion - chopped 2 carrots - chopped 2 sticks celery - chopped 2 red peppers (optional) - chopped in large chunks other vegetables which have been chopped. Drizzle with 4 5 tablespoons olive oil tablespoons of olive oil and place back in oven to roast for 45 1 tablespoon honey minutes. Drizzle honey over vegetables for last 10 minutes. 5cm knob fresh ginger grated 1.5 litre vegetable stock Meanwhile, add remaining olive oil to sauce pan and heat gen- salt & pepper tly then add grated ginger and stir for few minutes. Then add stock to pan. Preparation: When roasted vegetables have cooked (starting to brown) add Dig out a 4-litre saucepan and roasting tray, and preheat oven them to the stock pan and stir in. to 200 C/gas 6 Remove pan from heat, and blend the soup mix with hand Place butternut squash on tray, pierce skin with knife in a few blender (or mixer), until smooth and velvety. places, and bake in oven for approx. 1 hour, until it feels soft (can be done day ahead). Add salt/pepper to taste.

Cut butternut squash in half, scoop out seeds & discard. Scoop Warm through before serving with crusty bread. Add a drizzle out flesh, in large chunks and place back in roasting tray with of olive oil to the soup adds a nice touch!

The Cultured Vulture

In turn, the contemporary artist Matthew Day Jackson inter- Already now the snowdrop dares appear, preted this crazy juxtaposition beautifully in his work. He has The first pale blossom of th’unripen’d yea used textiles, silkscreen, artificial grass and pigment on paper to interpret Brueghel’s flower paintings. In other pictures the Anna Laetitia Barbauld, “The Snowdrop” (1835) snowdrops are made from a white lacy textile or a pale printed paper, contrasting with the vibrant prints and patterns of the more exotic flowers. The delicate, unassuming snowdrop has been gracing our gardens and village verges since January. There is something uplifting and magical about its drooping flowers and the green of its foliage contrasting with the bare surroundings. It seems to be one of the first signs of life at the turn of the year, often appearing when there is snow on the ground. Hence the French name ‘perce neige’.

Their simple, fragile, flowers have inspired artists and writers including Jan Breughel who used then in his innovative still life paintings. To the 21st century viewer the snowdrop is a humble, retiring flower but when Brueghel was painting in the 17th century it would have been relatively new and sought after.

Brueghel painted flowers with scientific precision to create his fabulous, overblown still lifes that were usually set against dark backgrounds to emphasise their rich colours. These paintings reproduce flowers in arrangements that couldn’t possibly have existed in the same climate or season and Brueghel often had to travel to paint them.

In his paintings snowdrops, daffodils, narcissi, grape hya- cinths, cornflowers, pansies, buttercups, and bluebells appear alongside roses, carnations, tulips, lilies, and irises. They rarely overlap so each bloom can be seen.

4 Farming notes by Ian Smith

Where Britain’s exit from the EU will leave the parish’s farm- ers is anyone’s guess, but eagle-eyed readers with fairly long memories will recall that Farming Notes predicted food imports to the country would be the quid pro quo on any trade deals, to the inevitable detriment to our own agriculture. So it was no surprise to choke on my breakfast egg at the headlines stating that Ugandan beef would be welcome on the UK’s tables once the import tariffs imposed by the EU are no more, of course, for Uganda insert any other country you wish to.

Sympathetic as I am to impoverished third world farmers with worse life styles than myself, this does raise a few issues. Under what welfare standards are said livestock to be raised? I have seen how animals are treated in many places abroad and I do not think much of it. What disease security is in place on these imports? For instance, we have been free from foot and mouth for a good few years now but when it comes the source is always imported meat. If there is one thing that gets farmers riled, it is having to jump through endless regulatory hoops and put up with know all inspectors only to see food imported which appears not to be produced under the same regulatory standards.

How does your garden grow? by Julie Walton

MARCH

This is the month that heralds spring. Winter flowering shrubs - Many vegetables can be sown in the ground this month. These are in flower and the spring bulbs give a welcome burst of col- include carrots, parsnips, spinach, broad beans, lettuce, broad our even on the gloomiest of days. March is the month to start beans and peas. planting and seeding. - Hardy annuals can be sown outside such as Nigella and night Things to do in March scented stock.

- Weed borders before the weeds become established and mulch the bare soil in borders and around trees, about 2cm deep. This improves the soil and helps to suppress weeds. You can use well rotted garden compost, manure, or cocoa shells and chipped bark.

- Create a wild flower area. If you have a sunny, poor gravelly area, this is ideal. Field poppy, corn marigold, larkspur are a few examples, but you can buy a variety of different flower seeds from garden centres and on line. Scatter the seed and rake in gently and water. Do not feed, wild flowers like poor soil.

- Finish splitting herbaceous perennials.

- Put support in place for perennials, before they need it. It looks more natural if the plant can grow through and around it.

- Finish pruning roses and late flowering clematis.

5 Film Review By Liz Turner

1917 Directed, co-written, and produced by Sam Mendes

It’s 1917, the Germans have retreated and the Devonshires think they’ve got them on the run – one more big push and it’s over – but intelligence shows it’s a trap. Lance corporals Schof- ield and Blake (George MacKay and Dean-Charles Chapman) into a dreamlike world, and there were times when suspension are tasked with heading across country behind enemy lines, to of belief were severely tested. I also found the choice of song reach them before dawn to try to stop the inevitable slaughter. at one poignant moment jarring: Poor Wayfaring Stranger is a beautiful American gospel song, would British troops have It’s a nail-biting, breath-holding, wishing there was a sofa to known it? But then Pack up Your Troubles in Your Old Kit Bag, hide behind ride with unexpectedly twists and turns in the plot. or various other jaunty and occasionally foul-mouthed trench songs wouldn’t have created the mood the Mendes was looking For me, the film felt fresh because it shows things you don’t for. normally see. We have viewed many images of the appalling mess in no man’s land, but not the beautiful countryside behind I’d recommend it, unless you get motion sickness – the way the the lines. We’ve seen men heading over the top, but not sitting, camera runs with the tommies can be disconcerting. The two waiting, enduring a strange mix of rigid rules and chaos. Who oh-so-young leads are excellent, and Benedict Cumberbatch knew there would be a one-way system for narrow trenches? appears in an intense cameo. The line that stuck in my mind, Trying to run up the Down trench, getting in everyone’s way however, came from the resigned, weary Sergeant Sanders proved a task in itself. (Daniel Mays) as he gives directions past the dead horses and ‘the bowing chap’ referring to a poor dead soldier caught and The first half completely gripped me, the second half drifted left in that pose, unmourned, on the barbed wire.

Book Club by Lorena Roberts

We had an interesting and lively discussion of Ali Smith’s Au- tumn at Lorena’s. This post-Brexit novel touched on many themes including love in its many shapes and forms, ageing, friendship, ‘arty art’ and politics, to name but a few. Some beautiful and original descriptive writing and thoroughly convincing, often humorous, dialogues. However, these were interspersed with the occasional passage which left most of us wondering what it was all about!

This month’s book is The Moonstone by Wilkie Collins, thought to be the first-ever detective novel, which we will be discussing at June’s home on Monday 16th March at 7.15. The book for April is ‘Old Baggage’ by Lissa Evans.

JUDY [12A]

It’s winter 1968, and showbiz legend Judy Garland Doors open 7pm, programme starts at 7.30pm [Renee Zellweger] arrives in London to perform a Tickets £6 adults from Lesley on 01249 783157 or five-week sold-out run at The Talk of the Town. It email [email protected] is 30 years since she shot to global stardom in The Wizard of Oz, but if her voice has weakened, its Lesley would appreciate it if you could let her know dramatic intensity has only grown. As she prepares in advance if you would like tickets. for the show, battles with management, charms musicians and reminisces with friends and adoring Future dates for your diary fans, her wit and warmth shine through. Also fea- tures Jessie Buckley, Michael Gambon and Rufus April 29th The Good Liar Sewell. www.moviola.org Wednesday 25th March, Grittleton Village Hall http://www.grittleton.info

6 Poetry Thank you to Hilary Noyes for this month’s choice

The Owl Edward Thomas 1878-1917 Edward Thomas composed this poem shortly before he died on 8th April 1917 during the Battle of Arras. Some semblence of Downhill I came, hungry, and yet not starved; his experience can be seen in the award-winning film ‘1917’. Cold, yet had heat within me that was proof Against the North wind; tired, yet so that rest Hilary Noyes Had seemed the sweetest thing under a roof.

Then at the inn I had food, fire, and rest, Knowing how hungry, cold, and tired was I. All of the night was quite barred out except An owl’s cry, a most melancholy cry

Shaken out long and clear upon the hill, No merry note, nor cause of merriment, But one telling me plain what I escaped And others could not, that night, as in I went.

And salted was my food, and my repose, Salted and sobered, too, by the bird’s voice Speaking for all who lay under the stars, Soldiers and poor, unable to rejoice.

Agatha Raisin Obituary: MC Chesney, creator of Agatha Raisin

Author of Agatha Raisin and Hamish Macbeth, Marion Express, working as a theatre critic, covering fashion and then Chesney Gibbons, recently died aged 83. Writing as Jennie moving on to crime. Tremaine, Sarah Chester, Ann Fairfax and Charlotte Ward, she published more than 160 romance and historical novels, but She relocated to the Daily Express during the glory days of major success came with her switch to crime fiction writing as Fleet Street, and in the 1960s she reported on the Profumo/ MC Gibbons. Keeler affair.

Her Scottish police hero Macbeth first appeared in 1985, Aga- In 1969 she married a fellow journalist, Express correspondent tha Raisin followed in 1992. The intolerant, gin-swilling former Harry Scott Gibbons, and they had a son, Charles. The family public relations executive turned amateur sleuth, appeared in moved to America, where Chesney began writing novels, and 30 books. (So there’s enough material for plenty of visits to then back to the UK, settling in the Cotswolds. Biddestone.) Chesney was was a big draw at festivals and crime-writing Chesney saw Agatha Raisin as an antihero, she said in 2017: “I conventions, but said: “Not many people know who I am and wanted someone you didn’t like, but you might want to win out I do like it that way.” Harry died in 2016. Chesney Gibbons is in the end.” survived by Charles.

Like her fictional characters, Chesney was flamboyant character. She honed her writing skills on the staff of the Scottish Daily

The Return of Agatha Raisin

As we got to press, we understand that the Agatha Raisin crew will soon be filming in Biddestone once again. Up to four shoots will be concentrated around Elm cottage from mid-March to mid-April.

As always, your patience is appreciated and the team will do their best to keep any disturbance to a minimum.

7 Proposed Redevelopment of the Biddestone Arms

Spaceworks acquired the vacant Biddestone Arms in 2019

Spaceworks would like to invite local residents to a drop-in consultation event, where you will have the chance to speak to the project team, find out more about draft plans and give your feedback.

We have booked the Village Hall on Monday 16th March between 4pm – 7pm

Biddestone Village Hall, Yatton Rd, Biddestone SN14 7BZ

Readers’Letters

My husband and I were very upset when the Biddestone Like many in the village, we were disappointed when the Arms closed down. Biddestone Arms closed down and were hoping that an- other amenity serving the community could take its place. We would hate to see the building demolished and ugly flats and new houses in its place. The property benefits from pleasant spaces inside and out - particularly the characterful front room. Its large car park The upstairs accommodation could be converted in mod- means that people can visit conveniently without spoiling ern living accommodation, but the downstairs body of the the village green. building should be kept for community use. Biddestone is a reasonably large village with a vibrant, A small essentials goods shops and coffee shop would sociable community. While the White Horse is great for a be a wonderful idea, especially with all the tourists the pint, Biddestone really lacks somewhere to eat, grab a cof- village gets in high season. fee and stock up on essentials during the day and on the weekends. We’ve seen other villages make a success of And I’m sure it would be used by locals and others multi-purpose spaces incorporating a cafe and shop - why from further afield if Allington Farm Cafe is anything to can’t we do the same at Biddestone? go by. You can’t get a seat in there now unless you’ve booked. I used to love popping in for a coffee and a Of course, we recognise the wider need for more housing chat with friends ad hoc, but now that’s just not possi- in the area, but this proposal barely scratches the surface. ble. However, should the Biddestone Arms become a Housing shortages are much better addressed by large- small coffee shop I would definitely use it frequently. scale developments such as what you will see on the out- skirts of Corsham. Why spoil the only feasible place for a I would also be willing to volunteer to do a few stints in daily community hub for the sake of six housing units? the cafe should this option be successful. The shop would also assist and be an asset to all the villagers. We recognise that Mr Buxton has raised the ‘possibility of a community facility’. What exactly is proposed? What Simone and Andrew Box space specifically has he reserved for it? And what are his proposals for dealing with the parking issue? In the absence of any details or guarantees, we’re not convinced.

Del & Katie Jones

8 Our Environment Biddestone and Beyond

Reader’s letter: Please keep off the grass!

It makes me sad as I walk around the village and see the damage done to our green verges by car tyres. The ground is so saturated, it will take a long time for these scars to heal. I’d like to appeal to everyone to take extra care and ask visitors to give the green bits a bit of breathing space.

Liz Turner

Recycling changes

Changes to our recycling regime are being phased in from 24 February to 20 March. Under the new system:

– the blue lidded bin takes cans, tins, aerosols, paper, cardboard, cartons, foil, plastic bottles, pots, tubs and trays

– the black box is for glass bottles and jars and bagged, dry textiles

Collection days will change for some people, the blue lidded bins and black boxes will be emptied fortnightly on the same day using new recycling collection vehicles.

Look out for letter from Wiltshire Council or see the website wiltshire.gov.uk You can also call 0300 456 0102 to ask for a printed calendar of delivery dates to be delivered in the post.

Eco Worrier

Rotten shame

The potato starch bags now frequently used to wrap subscription magazines or sections in Sunday papers are collected in garden bins by many councils for composting – but sadly, not by Wiltshire council.

In answer to our enquiry, Waste Officer Patrick Russell told us that the bags need quite specific conditions to be composted, they take a long time to break down and might require costly new processes and permits.

So please don’t put them in your garden bin. You could try composting them at home, or use them to wrap loose vegetables when shopping. Or, sadly, put them in your normal household rubbish bin.

Annual Parish Meeting

Save the date for the Annual Parish Meeting at the Village Hall on 14 April at 7pm. The parish council will present a review of its work throughout the year, and present the accounts. Parishioners will be able to discuss any issues or questions relating to the parish and community groups such the Village Hall committee and sports clubs will be invited to talk about what they do.

9 Slaughterford Saunter by Karen Crawford

tween 6 and 11 years old. Also bones of oxen, wild boar and a large domestic dog.

E: The Paper Mill

Slaughterford paper mill, also known as Dowding Mill and Chapps Mill, stopped producing paper in the 1980s after being used as a paper mill for more than 100 years. At this point the paper-making machinery was shipped out to South Africa where it is still being used.

There is a letter in existence from Box Mill complaining that they could not make white paper as the Slaughterford Mill making red paper made their paper downstream pink. Prior to paper-making it was a fulling mill for the wool trade.

F: Hangman’s Tree A: St Nicholas, Slaughterford A large oak tree on Dukes Hill is supposedly haunted after a The original church dating from the 12th century was demol- local villain was hanged there. ished by General Wallen (one of Cromwell’s men) in the 1650s. He was marching his troops to meet Cromwell at Lansdown en route for Bristol and on to Ireland, where a rebellion was taking place. He quartered his squadron in Slaughterford, used the roof for firewood and the church for cannon practice. Cannon balls and musket balls have been found in the field surrounding the church. The tower was left standing and was incorporated into the rebuilding of the church in 1823.

B: Old Coaching Inn and Stables

Carter’s cottage used to be a coaching inn on the route from Bristol via Bath to London and the Bartons were the stables for the Inn.

C: Slaughterford Bridge

The bridge dates from the 1890s. The field opposite the bridge is known as Bloodymeade meadow – reputedly Slaughterford is named after a battle that took place there. The Danes, fleeing after the battle of Ethandun, under their leader Eldrod, met and fought with King Alfred and his men and were cut down and slaughtered trying to cross the flooded and swollen Bybrook. G: Rag Mill D: The Quaker Meeting House/Chapel Now disused, the Rag Mill has the remains of a large breast In the woods above Rock Cottage lies a ruined chapel where water wheel which powered the making of rags for the pa- George Fox, a prominent Quaker, came to preach in the 17th per-making process. The water entered the wheel at the breast century. The Quakers preached here until 1756, when it was or axle level of the mill. The wheel is 15ft in diameter and has sold to another free church congregation and used by villagers 48-bucket sections. for many years. There are a few gravestones in amongst the ruins which can be deciphered, one reading Holder and there The leat for the water wheel runs for three quarters of a mile are still Holders locally in Ford. above the current source of the Bybrook for some distance. The mill stopped working in the 1940s. Above the chapel is Cloud Quarry, which is said to have yield- ed Fullers Earth for the wool trade. The stone is also said to H: Dove Cote have been used for Malmesbury Abbey. In medieval times pigeons were raised by the abbeys to supply Nearby is a cave in the cliffs called Guy’s Rift – named after fresh meat in winter. Animals could not be fed in winter and Guy St Barbe who discovered Iron Age remains there in 1922. were killed in the autumn and preserved by salting. When the The upper part of the rift was quarried in medieval times, and potato was introduced in 1586, this changed as livestock such this disturbed earlier habitation. Some 26ft inside the passage as pigs could be fed potatoes in winter and the use of pigeons skeletons were found of four adults and three children of be- declined.

10 A listed wellhead stands in a nearby garden. This was where wool was hung to dry after being washed in the Bybrook and processed in the nearby cottages.

I: Tithe Barn

A medieval Tithe Barn stands in Manor Farm. This would once have had a stone tiled roof and would have been an impressive building indeed. The beams for the barn are said to have come from Henry VIII’s galleons.

In the 12C King Stephen gave the grant of the Manor of Slaughterford to the French monastery of Martigny, later trans- ferred to the Priory of Monkton Farleigh.

Woodcuts showing this Tithe Barn are incorporated into the work of respected artist, etcher and printmaker Robin Tanner (1904-1988).

11 What’s On get involved …

FREE LIFESAVING & DEFIBRILATOR ST NICHOLAS CHURCH TRAINING AT ANNUAL PAROCHIAL BIDDESTONE CHURCH MEETING The Church of St Nicholas, resident in the Parish), please Biddestone is holding its APCM contact Julia Tisdale (juliaquig- VILLAGE HALL (Annual Parochial Church [email protected]) prior to the Meeting) on Monday 6th April APCM. Once on the Electoral th at 7.00 p.m. in the Church. Roll you can vote at the APCM, Wednesday 6 May Everyone in the community is meaning that you can have 7.30 pm most welcome to attend. a say in who is elected as the If you are on the Electoral Roll, Church Officers (the PCC). the first PCC meeting (Parochial We are extremely grateful Church Council) of the year to all who serve and help the takes place straight after the Church maintain its vitality. Trainer: Sharon Kirwan – S.W.A.S.T APCM. If you would like to join l If you would like to help us the Electoral Roll, (for which by joining the PCC this year you have to be over the age of please contact: Church Warden EVERYONE IS WELCOME DAVIS JENNY ILLUSTRATION: 16 and baptised, and usually Rosemary Warchus.

World’s Biggest Pub Quiz

Come and take part in The World’s Biggest Pub Quiz at 8pm on 12th March at The White Horse.

Join pubs, clubs and bars across the UK for the fifth annual World’s Biggest Pub Quiz, from 8-12 March 2020 and help raise money for Action Against Hunger or your favourite charities with PubAid.

12 Lent Lunch

A simple Lent Lunch will be held at the Oak House on 2nd March between 12-2pm, with donations going to local char- ities. All welcome. Please contact Charlotte Bruce 01249 716330

13 Best Foot Forward North West Wiltshire Ramblers Walk Programme

March 2020 Leader: Judy H. Mob: 07765 266908 Tel: 01249 701265 Villages Near Chippenham The Titfield Thunderbolt

Sunday 1st March, 9:45am, Distance: 8 miles/13 km, Leisurely. Sunday 29th March, 10:00am, Distance: 6.5 miles/10 km, Moderate. With a mixture of paths, bridleways and quiet roads this walk, heading out of west Chippenham, takes in Allington, Kington Today’s route visits some of the locations used in the filming St Michael and Kington Langley and is No 12 from “12 More of the 1953 British comedy, The Titfield Thunderbolt. From the Walks around Chippenham”. The walk starts at 10:00am from canal centre car park, BA2 7JD or ST 783 621 on O/S Explorer Bristol Road Sports Ground car park, SN15 1NH or Grid 142/156, at Limpley Stoke at 10:30am, we’ll follow the disused Reference (GR): ST 912739 on O/S Explorer 156. Meet at railway track through Monkton Combe to Midford. Then it’s Bath Road car park Chippenham, SN15 2AE, for car sharing at onto Freshford where we’ll join the Kennet and Avon Canal. 9:45am. There is a possible mid-day pub stop but please bring Meet at Bath Road car park Chippenham, SN15 2AE, for car your lunch. sharing at 10:00am. Please bring a packed lunch and lifts today are suggested at £3.00. Leader: Alan R. Tel: 01249 446465 Leader: Clive F. Mob: 07725 903158 A Sunday Stroll from Chelworth For more information visit our website: http://www.wiltsswin- Sunday 8th March, 1:25pm, Distance: 3.75mile/5.9km, donramblers.org.uk Leisurely.

Start at 2:10pm from the Well House, Chelworth SN16 9SF, GR: ST 970942. Limited parking in Chelworth –meet first by Crudwell Primary School at 2pm, The Green, SN16 9ER. We explore the area around Chelworth and visit Oaksey Wood. Mainly bridleways and fields. Meet at Bath Road car park Chippenham, SN15 2AE, for car sharing at 1:25pm. Lifts sug- gested at £1.80p.

Leader: Judy H. Mob: 07765 266908 Tel: 01249 701265 Two Walks for One!

Sunday 15th March, 09:45am, Distance: 8.1 miles/13 km, Easy.

This walk starts from the Springfield Campus, Beechfield Road, SN13 9DN or GR: ST 866703 on O/S Explorer 156, in Corsham at 10:00am. Leaving the Campus, we head west to pass Middlewick House and along the Turnpike with views over to Hartham House. Returning to Corsham High Street via Pockeridge Lakes and Lane to then walk over Corsham Park with views out to Cherhill Down. We return via Westrop, Cor- sham Park and the War Memorial. Refreshments and toilet are available at the start and end of the walk. Meet at Bath Road car park Chippenham, SN15 2AE, for car sharing at 9:45am. Lifts today are suggested at 80p and please bring your lunch.

Leader: Barry C. Mob:07429 516748 A Sunday Stroll from Castle Combe

Sunday 22nd March, 1:35pm, Distance: 4.5mile/7km, Moderate.

This walk starts at 2pm from Castle Combe car park, Dunns Lane, Castle Combe, SN14 7HU, GR: ST 846777. We walk out to Nettleton Shrub along Broadmead Brook, cross the plateau to The Pinetum and through woods back to Castle Combe. Meet at Bath Road car park Chippenham, SN15 2AE, for car sharing at 1:35pm. Lifts suggested at 70p.

14 Cotswold Voluntary Wardens Guided Walks

Tuesday 3rd March Leaders: Chris Gill and Derrick Hildersley.

Tuesday Tramp in Colerne Parish. 3 hrs. 5 miles. Moderate. Sunday 22nd March Start at 10.00 am at the Fox and Hounds Public House in Colerne, OS Map ST 818 711. Park at pub or adjacent Consti- Up to a Down. 3 hrs. 5 miles. Moderate. Start at 10.00 am at tutional Club. A walk around the various footpaths of Colerne The George pub car park, Bathampton (away from the pub). Parish. Not suitable for pushchairs. Bring a mid-morning mun- OS Map ST 776 665. A walk from Bathampton along the Ken- chie. Lunch available at the pub. net and Avon Canal and up to the Downs. We walk along some of the Bath Skyline paths and the old quarries before dropping Leaders: Sid Gould, Dave Wright and Robert Herbert. down via the old tramway to the canal and back to Bathampton. Please bring a drink/snack. Not suitable for pushchairs. Saturday 14th March Leaders: Wilf Dando and Pauline Vincent. Dyrham, Park and Countryside [Battlefield]. 2.5 hrs. 5 miles. Moderate. Start at 10.30 am at Visitor Reception, NT Dyrham Friday 27th March Park. OS Map ST 748 757. A walk from Dyrham Park through nearby farmland and along part of the Cotswold Way passing Cotswold Walls. 5 hr. 8.5 miles. Moderate. Start at 10.00 am points of interest along the way. Parking charges but free with at Swineford Picnic area (signposted on A431) OS Map ST NT membership card. Not suitable for pushchairs but fine for 691 692. A circular walk taking in North Stoke, Pipley Wood, families. Hanging Hill Upton Cheney and Bitton. See what a difference walls rebuilt by the Wardens make to the landscape. Please Leaders: John Walker and Bob Ford. bring a picnic lunch.

Tuesday 17th March Leaders: Gwyneth Littlejohn and Glyn William.

Gatcombe in One. 3.5 hrs. 6 miles. Moderate. Start at 10.00 am Only assistance dogs are allowed on these walks at Avening village by the Queen Matilda Tavern (junction of three roads from Tetbury, Minchinhampton and Nailsworth). Donations to Countryside Fund are collected at end of each Please park considerately on road nearby. OS Map ST 885 979. walk A stroll through Avening and into open country before dropping down passing the Iron and Longford Mills. We skirt around the See http://www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk/visiting-and-exploring/ Gatcombe Estate and you may find a few stray dimpled balls guided-walks for full details on our way back. Bring a drink and a snack for the mid-walk break. Lunch available locally after the walk.

Corsham Walking Festival

The 7th Corsham Walking Festival, 12 -14 June, offers 24 The free programme includes a popular children’s treasure hunt walks around the picturesque towns, villages and countryside and Nordic walking, investigating lichens and mosses. Families of north west Wiltshire. and groups can join in the Cryptic Mystery Walk ‘Corsham Needs a Super-Hero’, to test their powers of observation around Walk themes capture the industrial and rural heritage of the the local area. area including Hartham Park, hidden quarries, GWR and Brunel’s tunnel, ancient parishes and manor houses. For more information visit www.corshamwalkingfestival.org. uk There are walks for all abilities and interests, with longer routes include Bath, Biddestone, Castle Combe, Lacock, Marshfield Or connect via FaceBook, Twitter and Instagram @corsham- and St Catherine’s Valley plus in and around Corsham. walkfest #corshamwalkfest (See poster p2.)

The Butts Photo competition

Thank you for all the photographs you have submitted for our calendar competition, we have been so impressed by your imagination and choice of subject matter. Another month brings more opportunities, and more requests for your photographs, so please continue to snap away and send us the results.

Please send your photos to [email protected]

Shirley Marrinan

15 Village Hall classes From painting to yoga – there’s something for everyone

Main hall CIRCUIT TRAINING PRECISION PILATES MONDAY 6.00-7.00pm 7.30-8.30pm PAINTING GROUP Simon Bennett 07815619138 Amber Edenbrow 07725 316923 9.45-11.45am [email protected] [email protected] Sue Tennant 01249 72061 THURSDAY TUESDAY HIPS & HAWS CLOG SEQUENCE DANCING WRITING GROUP 8.00-10.00pm 7.30-10.00pm 10.00am-Noon Jan Field 01380 827140 Phil Fletcher 01793 936091 Tim Smith 01249 714455 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

TUESDAY FRIDAY WEDNESDAY YOGAMAGIC PHYSIO-LED PILATES IYENGAR YOGA CLASS 9.15-10.15 10.30-11.30am 7.00-8.30pm Jane Rouke 07736 552575 Physio led Edgar Stringer [email protected] Beth Borthwick [email protected] [email protected] IYENGAR YOGA CLASS QUILTING AND 6.00-9.00pm PATCHWORK CLASS Edgar Stringer New Club Room Noon-4.00pm [email protected] Anne Chapman 01249 782842

WEDNESDAY MONDAY THURSDAY IYENGAR YOGA CLASS PILATES IYENGAR YOGA CLASS ● To book the Village Hall, 10.00-11.30am 11.00-Noon 10.00-11.30am please contact the booking Lydia Holmes Stonehouse Clinic Lydia Holmes secretary: 07391 511495 or [email protected] 01249 700417 ann.barnes@ [email protected] [email protected] stonehouseclinic.co.uk

Biddestone & Hartham Women’s Institute Reeds, strings and drones at the WI

The W.I. would like to invite everyone to a musical treat with Brian Tilley and Penny Birnsting, performing as Amusette.

Brian and Penny will be playing instruments that use reeds, strings and drones. They create lovely melodies, harmonies and foot-tapping rhythms playing four types of bagpipe from central France, plus a hurdy gurdy, accordion and concertina. They will also be entertaining the group with the stories behind the instruments and the music.

Come along to the Village Hall on Wednesday 18 March, 2.15 to 4pm. All welcome. Rain water run off after storm Denis. Biddestone. photo by Chris Draper Rain water run off

16 Clubs and Community Activities Come and join in the many activities in and around Biddestone

Allotments located at the Biddestone Walkers The Cotswold Wardens Walks Skittles Village Hall Wednesdays village hall. For more information, walking group meets on the last Monthly schedule on village 7pm and 9pm. Bar open, contact David Daniel 701311 Sunday of every month. Contact website – contact Barry Cox spectators welcome. Contact Kate Jones for details 715180 Mike Chrystal 712833 Book Club Third Monday. of Edward Bear Pre-school the month. Contact Diane Ross- Bridge Club First Monday group See back page for details Village Link ‘Volunteers Smith for details 712105. of the month. Club meets for transporting the community’ If a social evening of bridge; no Gardening Club Last Monday you need this service or would Biddestone Cricket Club tuition is available, so players of each month 7pm like to join the volunteers. See biddestone.play-cricket. must have some level of Contact Di Webb Contact 07590 720836, or for com, or Biddestone Cricket Club experience. Contact Ian Smith 715963 more details see the website Facebook page 01249 714475 or Jane Iggulden village-link.org.uk 01249 713311 for details Marshfield Flower Biddestone Singers Meet at Arrangement Club 1st Women’s Institute Meets on The Oak House or St. Nicholas Brownies Yatton Keynell Village Wednesday of each month floral third Wednesdays in the village church every Thursday 7.30- Hall Every Wednesday 6.15- workshop and 2nd Wednesday hall 2-4pm, and arranges outings. 9pm. All welcome. For more 7.45pm yattonkeynellbrownies@ floral demonstration. Marshfield information, please contact gmail.com Church Hall 7pm. Youth Club Yatton Keynell [email protected] Village Hall Wednesdays or 716330 Cake Sale Yatton Keynell first Moviola Community 8-9.30pm. Contact Alan Saturday of month 8.30 -11.30am cinema, showing in Grittleton Brinkworth 782647 Biddestone Tennis Club outside the Post Office village hall. See Moviola.org Club night, Tuesday evening & Saturday morning. See Can Craft! Y atton Keynell, St. Parish Council Meets on clubspark.lta.org.uk/Biddestone Margarets church. A get together second Tuesday of each month, TennisClub Membership John to chat and craft, third Monday of Village Hall, 7pm Marrinan biddestonetc@gmail. the month 7.30-9.30pm If you would like to add details of an com 07773 569704 Parochial Church Council activity or club, please contact the or see Biddestone Tennis Club Coffee, Cakes and Chat Annual Parochial Church Council Broadsheet. Facebook page. For coaching in the church, St Nicholas Meeting St Nicholas Church, contact Dan Tonkin Biddestone,Thursdays 10.30am- Biddestone. . Everyone welcome 07805 923279 Noon. Everyone welcome

Letter from Corsham Churches Food Bank

It is with great pleasure that I write this letter of thanks for the continued contribu- MORE tions you make to the Corsham Churches Foodbank, especially at this time of year. ONLINE During the normal school working year, families are able to obtain some meals as their child’s school provides a breakfast and lunch. BUT during the school holidays, ● For the latest information or when the schools are closed, some families, for a variety of reasons, are not able to see, the village website feed their families. Corsham Churches Foodbank were able to fill the gap and provid- www.biddestonevillage.org. ed packs for some 82 adults and 84 children, ensuring the familes did not go short. uk or the Biddestone Village On average we give out packs to 26 familes a month. If you have a relative, neigh- Facebook page. bour or friend who needs support, but may be too shy or proud to ask for help – please ring us on 07788 115095 and we will do the rest.

Once again, many, many thanks for your support and may we take this opportunity to wish you all a Happy New Year.

John Johnson ● To post an item on website or Facebook, please email Vice-Chair – Trustees, Corsham Foodbank biddestonebroadsheet @gmail.com Food for the Corsham Churches Foodbank can be dropped off in St Nicholas Church, or collecting boxes at Sainsburys. Rain water run off after storm Denis. Biddestone. photo by Chris Draper Rain water run off

17 Crossword

by Diane Ross-Smith

Solution to last month’s crossword

DOWN First published in ‘The Honeycomb’ March 2016 ‘The Honeycomb’ First in published ACROSS 2. Male ire letters sent by him? (7) 3. Goat elite provide cake topping. (11) 1. Other beds contain plants – perhaps parsley. (4) 4. Career declaration. (10) 4. Brightly coloured bird with account of another bird. (10) 5. Ordination garb bores inordinately! (5) 9. May developed from short bloom Shawn hybridized. (8, 7) 6. Cut a groove at end of bait to catch fish. (5) 10. Down rings for spring flowers. (9) 7. Offspring matter. (5) 12. The imperial measure is robbery! (5) 8. Restricted by this type of company? (7) 15. Spring flower - initially corm - rises out cracking up soil. (6) 11. Flower from a high throw by essayist. (7) 16. Miserable prison for American singer. (8) 13. Shamble of French call for attention to awkward youth. (11) 17. US football stadium used to display flowers… (4, 4) 14. Cult of mail merging provides more than one way of look- 18…flowers you French familiarly put to the mouth. (6) ing at things. (10) 20. US mission found in usual amount. (5) 17. Old repairers of highways give way to crew. (7) 23. Lad, Sid, off to pick these flowers. (9) 19. His progress gave inspiration to John Bunyan’s major 24. Description of this month’s crazy animal? (3, 2, 1, 5, 4) work. (7) 25. System of symbols described as first part of Bible encom- 21. Official inspection gold to the French say. (5) passed by native. (10) 22. Beginning of action in the television studio? (5) 26. Sweet potatoes start to yield a mushy starch. (4) 23. Disney’s elephant is a stupid one! (5)

Parish steward’s visit

Parish steward Mark Hawkins will be in the village Thursday 19th Clearing storm debris from the roads and footways March for half a day and Monday 23rd March for a full day. We have Pedestrian barrier preparation and painting the steward for a day and half and his usual work plan is half a day in Cleaning and straightening of small road signs street nameplates and Slaughterford and the remainder of the time in Biddestone. bollards Please make a note when the cold weather arrives the steward Securing small road signs, verge marker posts and supplying street works on the gritting lorry over night and will not be working in name plates the village. This also applies to heavy rain storms. Again, he will Removal of limited graffiti from road signs, bollards and street name- be moved out of the village to work clearing storm damage and plates clearing drains that might cause flooding. Hand cutting of grass and vegetation in visibility area Hand treatment of weeds His varied duties can include: Hand clearing encroaching growth and soil from footpaths Repair of small potholes in roads and footways Hand cutting and cutting growth from drainage grips and drain gully Clearing vegetation from road signs covers. Hand clearing blocked drainage, grips, culverts, pipes and pits (una- ble to jet system) If you have any highway problems, please contact [email protected] or [email protected] 18 Abridged Draft Minutes of the meeting of Biddestone & Slaughterford Parish Council Village Hall on Tuesday 11th February 2020 at 7pm.

Minutes of the Parish Council General Meeting held on Monday 10th comprising changing proposed windows to doors within new extension December 2019 were proposed by VC as a true record and APPROVED. and blocking up existing door way to create window within existing door Signed and dated by chairman. opening NO OBJECTIONS 20/00202/FUL Biddestone Saw Mill, Challows Lane, Biddestone, SN14 Actions: 7DT Proposal: Proposed Solar PV Panels and Air Source Pump NO OBJECTIONS SB to clear out old disabled lavatory prior to public conveniences re-opening 20/00968/TCA Biddestone Manor, Chippenham Road, Biddestone, SN14 in April. 7DJ Proposals: Re-pollard 22 Lime Trees Back to Previous Pruning Points NO OBJECTIONS AW to write to Environment Agency requesting Freedom of Information Preplanning Consultation: Biddestone Arms - Public Consultation Meeting on the history of the installation of the Slaughterford Flood Gate and the to be held on 16th March 2020 at the Village Hall conditions regarding its control and maintenance should it be transferred to a ‘third party’. Finance - Bank Reconciliation 2019/20 – Noted

Lifesaving and Defibrillation Workshop will be held at the Village Hall 7.30 Cheques for payment (LGA 1972 s150 (5)) Clerks Salary & Tax(Feb), – 9.30 Wednesday 6th May, notice to be inserted in Broadsheet and posters Wiltshire Council £1801.56 for SID brackets etc totalling £2136.70 Pro- displayed. posed for payment by GB and APPROVED

Annual Parish Meeting will be held at 7pm on Tuesday 14th April followed Reps Reports by the Parish Council meeting. Agatha Raison – Talks talking place this week regarding proposed 4 days of Notification of Planning Applications Granted: filming.

19/09759/FUL Grooms Cottage, The Green, Biddestone, Chippenham, Highway Matters Wiltshire, SN14 7DG 19/10351/FUL & 19/10558/LBC The Close, The Green, Biddestone, Chip- Speed Indicator Devices – Installation completed SB/VC to move penham SN14 7DG between four points on a weekly basis. 19/10913/TCA The Close, The Green, Biddestone, Chippenham SN14 7DG 19/10920/TCA The Close, The Green, Biddestone, Chippenham SN14 7DG Cuttle Lane - Additional expenditure of £900 APPROVED Work to 19/11952/TCA TCA Biddestone Manor Biddestone SN14 7DJ commence in new financial year. Planters to be provided and paid for by the Parish Council. Installation of Gateways to be discussed at Notification of Planning Applications Received: forthcoming CATG meeting 18.02.20, AW & SB attending.

19/09947/FUL Garden Cottage, The Butts, Biddestone, SN14 7DY Community Litter Pick – Organised by VC for 25/02/20. Posters Proposal: Proposed Garden Room amended plans NO OBJECTIONS displayed. 19/11952/TCA Biddestone Manor Biddestone SN14 7DJ Proposal: 50% canopy reduction to 6 holly oak trees to create formal The Pond – AJ reported that the edging stones were breaking up and boundary. NO OBJECTIONS needed attention. DT to clear brambles and dead foliage. Trees to be 19/11839/LBC The Close, The Green, Biddestone, SN14 7DG pollarded. Proposal: Proposed replacement boiler. NO OBJECTIONS 19/12165/VAR Land adjacent 11 The Tynings, Biddestone, SN14 7ED Signpost – At three-way junction near Toplands. MC to check if he Proposal: Variation of condition 2 of Planning application 18/08398/FUL can replace missing lettering. to allow for amendments to the construction of the dwelling, internal layout amendments and refinements to sizes and positions of doors and windows. Website and Broadsheet – both need updating with Councillor con- NOT SUPPORTED The raising of interior floor appears to increase the tact details, diary dates also need amending. problem of overlooking of the neighbouring property. This need to be addressed. There being no further business the meeting closed at 8.35pm. next 20/00152/LBC Stable Cottage, Cuttle Lane, Biddestone, SN14 7DF meeting 10th March 2020 7pm at Biddestone Village Hall. Proposal: Amendments to previously gained consent 19/09302/LBC

Parish council website Parish Councillors The Parish Council now has its own website where you can find the Chairman Simon Bruce unabridged minutes and all the latest notices. See: 01249 716330 [email protected] www.biddestoneslaughterfordpc.uk Vice Chairman Adam Walton 01249 701784 [email protected] Meetings scheduled for 2020 George Brown Mike Chrystal 712833 March 10th July 14th Ashley Juniper 712707 April 12th Aug 11th Andy Short 714724 May 14th Sept 9th Diana Webb 715963 June 9th Angela Williams Anthea Kelsall Parish Clerk Glenys Gill 01225 742207 19 Church Services St Nicholas, Biddestone

MARCH 2020

1st Holy Communion 11am

8th Evensong 4pm

15th Morning Praise 9:30am

22nd Mothering Sunday Service Followed by Tea and Cake 4pm

Every Wednesday morning there is a service at 9.15am. This is either Holy Communion or Morning Prayer, and includes prayers for the suffering. (No service 26th December) St Nicholas, Slaughterford

March 2020

8th BCP Holy Commnium 11am Church contacts The Bybrook Team Ministry Reverend Gillian Parkin, 29th Team Service. ‘Lambing’ 3pm [email protected] Associate Minister www.bybrook.org.uk Tel: 01249 782704 Tel and fax: 01249 782704

Church events Reverend Marc Terry, Reverend Mary Gubbins priest-in-charge (Rector Designate) Associate Minister Tel: 01249 782672 Tel: 01249 448530 Tea and Toast Mondays Short reflective prayer [email protected] 8.45-10am, St Margaret’s meeting Wednesdays noon, Yatton Keynell St Mary’s Grittleton Morning prayer (with Lunch Club every second Edward Bear intercessions for the sick), Wednesday from 12.30 St Wednesdays 9.15am Mary the Virgin, Burton Free get-together for pre-schoolers and their parents or carers. St Nicholas Biddestone We would love you to join us for stories, crafts, activities and Second Wednesday is Yatton Keynell ‘Café refreshments on the following Fridays at 10am usually holy communion Church’ Tuesday 10-12 noon, light lunches from Morning prayer Thursdays noon-1pm St Nicholas 10am, St Michael and Biddestone All Angels, Kingston St Coffee in the Church Michael. Second Thursday Thursdays 10.30-noon. St 6th March is usually holy communion Nicholas, Biddestone

Morning prayer Thursdays 9am, St Margaret’s St Margaret’s Yatton Keynell For more information, or to be added to the contact list, email Julia 20th March at [email protected] for 24th April Biddestone or Cilla at [email protected] for Yatton Keynell

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