Kington Langley Village Magazine February 2020

Kington Langley and Draycot Cerne

Village Magazine

February 2020

Issue no. 486

1 Draycot Benefice Services for February 2020

th Sunday 2nd February Sunday 16 February nd Candlemas 2 Sunday before Lent 9am Holy Communion at Seagry 9am Holy Communion (BCP) at Tytherton 10.30am Holy Communion at Christian Kellaways Malford 10.30am United Benefice All Age Service at 10.30am All Age Service at Kington Seagry: Launch of the Lent Challenge

Langley Thursday 20th February 10.30 Café Church at Sutton Benger 9am Holy Communion at Kington Langley

th Thursday 6 February Sunday 23rd February 9am Holy Communion at Kington Langley Next Sunday before Lent

Sunday 9th February 9am Holy Communion at Christian Malford 3rd Sunday before Lent 10.30am Holy Communion at Kington Langley 9am Holy Communion at Kington Langley 10.30am All Age Service at Sutton Benger 10.30am Baptism followed by Holy

Communion at Sutton Benger Wednesday 26th February 10.30am Coffee, Chat and Craft at Christian Malford Ash Wednesday 12.30pm Service of Holy communion with Thursday 13th February Ashing at Sutton Benger.

9am Morning Prayer at Christian Malford Thursday 27th February 9am Morning Prayer at Christian Malford

Union Chapel Christian Fellowship – Kington Langley

SERVICES & EVENTS Sunday 2nd February 10.30am Morning Service and Communion Sunday 9th February 10.30am Morning Service Sunday 16th February 10.30am Morning Service and Communion Sunday 23rd February 10.30am Morning Service

Weekly events Wednesdays 10.30am Bible Study in the Chapel (we are currently studying the Acts of the Apostles) Thursdays 10.00 - 1200 Chapel Rendezvous in the Chapel

2 FROM THE EDITOR

Welcome to this month’s magazine. Not forgetting Waste Free February, Alongside all the usual features, you may organised by Wiltshire Wildlife Trust (see notice that there is a very strong page 49) environmental theme this month, for which Environmental issues are also high on the I make no apology. I’m sure you too have agenda with Wiltshire Council. Their Area been horrified by the forest fires in Board meeting on 3rd February, hosted by Australia, the extensive droughts across Sheldon School, has an Eco focus. It is an Africa, and the flooding of homes in the open meeting and you are welcome to go north of England. We can feel so helpless along and see what is happening and how and overwhelmed, thinking there is nothing you might get involved. There will be we can do to change what is regularly displays from various groups and local called the ‘climate emergency’ or ’crisis’. organisations (page 17 for more details) However, small actions start to build a momentum and can make a difference, And caring for our village environment leading to wider positive change. features in the Langley Fitzurse School letter too (page 19) which I know will delight That’s the aim of the 6 week Eco Challenge many who live nearby. Draycot Churches are running throughout Whoever you are, whatever your interests Lent (more details on page 21) – it’s open or passions, there is something you can do to everyone, and we hope that our local to protect our wildlife and our planet – schools and organisations will be keen to whether it is changes in our own lifestyle, get involved too. influencing change in organisations you are During February there is also the ‘Show the part of, or campaigning more widely.

Love’ campaign from the Climate Coalition, Choose ONE thing this month to become a supported by a wide range of organisations new habit—and do share what you are such as WI, RSPB, National Trust & Oxfam, doing. What has helped you, or what have people from all walks of life come together you found difficult? I look forward to to show the love for everything they want hearing from YOU! to protect from climate change (see page Katherine Bloomer 15 for a free local WI event) Editor

March Edition deadline on ** Monday 24th February 2020 ** Please email a Word Document or PDF to [email protected] It may not be possible to include any items received after the midday deadline on the closing date.

4 5 THE BENEFICE OF DRAYCOT DIOCESE OF BRISTOL Dear Friends,

Approaching The Bible

The dawn of human imagination was some 6000 to 7000 years ago, in line with the current period of relatively stable climate after the end of the last ice age. Whether, we are churchgoers or not, we must take seriously any text that wrestles with an understanding of history and the revelation of meaning over that period. One of only a handful of such texts is the collection of books we know as the Bible.

In Autumn every year, the Church celebrates Bible Sunday. Last year, one of our congre- gations had the chance to ask a series of questions about the Bible. This is not my at- tempt to answer those many questions, but I want to suggest where to begin.

I have not always found the Bible very easy to get along with. Some passages feel over- complicated and some feel over simple. It feels at times there are contradictions, for example: is God loving or judgemental?

My suggestion is to neither to simplify nor over-complicate but rather to look to the focus of scripture as the best place to start. If we begin and end our understanding of scripture at the cross and resurrection of Jesus, first the Gospel stories, then the letters of Paul, John and Peter and ultimately the Old Testament history and stories of Creation begin to make sense. The precious treasure of scripture is marked by a cross, which is the place both to begin and end our reconciliation with God and our search for meaning in scripture. At John puts it in his first letter:

'God’s love was revealed among us in this way: God sent his only Son into the world so that we might live through him.' (4:9)

Rev Mark Siddall Curate

BENEFICE PRAYER Thursday 27th February

12.30 at All Saints, Sutton Benger Church for half an hour. Time to pray for our churches and villages. All welcome.

Pastoral Care - Looking after one another in the Draycot Benefice

If you, or someone you know, would like a visit from a pastoral visitor, please contact the named person below in the first instance:

Christian Malford: Clair Fairley [email protected] 01249 721728

Kington Langley: Rev Mark Siddall: [email protected] 01249 652752

Seagry: Tim Harle: [email protected] 01249 721706

Sutton Benger: Dawn Beresford 01249 720060

Tytherton Kellaways: Rev Alison: [email protected] 01249 720619

“Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfil the law of Christ” Galatians 6:2

Let Your Light Shine (Creative morning)

Friday 28th February 10am—12.30 All Saints Church, Sutton Benger Materials and refreshments provided—all welcome Contact Dawn Beresford 720060

Local business based in Kington Langley for all your embroidery or print needs.

 Clothing and accessories for all ages.  Workwear, PPE and sports wear.  Horse wear, i.e. saddle cloths, rugs etc.  Pet products i.e. beds, leads, coats etc.  Parties, i.e. hen and stag, weddings, sporting events and outings, birth- days etc.

Personalisation is ideal for company logo’s, parties, gifts, special occasions. The list is endless.

Have a look at my website at www.sharonlloyd.uk.com or contact me via email [email protected]

It’s that time of year when we all need a little warming up so we thought this soup recipe, which is from our 21 day transformation programme, would do the trick.

Mum’s Chicken Soup

2 chicken breasts on the bone skin removed (organic if possible) 1 onion quartered and then sliced into 1/4" slices 2 celery stalks, rinsed and sliced into 1/4" pieces 3 carrots, peeled, and sliced into 1/2" pieces 1 swede, peeled & cubed 1 bunch fresh dill, rinsed Sea salt & pepper to taste 2-3 tablespoons olive oil 1 pound of baby spinach

 Heat olive oil in a large heavy stockpot on a medium heat.  Add chicken and lightly brown on top and bottom. Remove from pot.  Add onions to the pot and season with salt and pepper. Cook until tender and lightly golden.  Return chicken to the pot and add enough water to cover chicken, and then about 1" higher.  Bring to a boil and add all the vegetables including the dill. Bring to a simmer and cook with the pot half covered for about 30 minutes (or until all the vegetable are fork tender) Turn off the heat.  Remove the chicken and let cool until you are able to handle.  Remove the dill.  Shred the chicken and return it to the pot. Season the broth with salt and pepper.  Add the spinach. The heat from the soup will cook the spinach.

We run our 21 day transformation programme at Inspire Fitness every month. If you would like more information please give us a call or email – we loved to hear from you.

3A Union Road, Chippenham SN15 1HW 01249 463002 [email protected] www.inspirechippenham.com

FUNERAL OF DENNIS GILL As many will now know, Dennis Gill, a long time and active resident of the village died on Monday 13th January. The funeral will be held on Monday 3rd February, 12.15 West Wiltshire Crematorium, Devizes Road, Semington, Trowbridge BA14 6HL.

All welcome to the White Hart, Biddestone afterwards.

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH DETAILS Apologies to those of you who struggled to read the contact details in the last edition. If you wish to contact PC Windle and find out more about the scheme the e mail address is: [email protected]

DID YOU KNOW?

If you would like a large print copy of this magazine, please contact the Editor and we will ensure that a copy is delivered to you.

The second film of 2020 will be shown in the Kington Langley village hall on Friday 21st February 8:00pm. What better way to finish the working week than enjoy an evening watching a hand- picked quality film. The evening provides the opportunity to enjoy the company of friends, family, people you know and others you have yet to meet along with a little refreshment from the licenced bar. Typically more than 50 people attend each viewing providing a good and lively atmosphere.

DVDs are available for loan to members free of charge from a back list of films we have seen in the past – so come early, peruse the DVDs.

We are a film society and this means that you have to become a member for a year. This is a cost of £15 which is excellent value for 8 film showings during the year! Each member receives an email advising the film programme and just before the showing another email giving a synopsis of the film. Please contact Pippa Cooper for details (Tel: 750343 or email: [email protected])

Alternatively, come along on the evening to join. Members are very welcome to bring a guest at a cost of £3 per head. The doors opens at 7pm so please join us for a drink, catch up with local events before the film starts, put the working week behind you and start the weekend here.

Licensed bar - Soft refreshments Wheelchair access – Hearing loop

Monday 10th February **New time—10.30am**

by kind invitation of Christine Stables Arminger House, Kington Langley

For more information please contact Rev Alison or Katherine Bloomer

CHIPPENHAM MOBILE LIBRARY This month the mobile library will visit on Saturday 1st February 2020 from 9.20 – 10am at the Village Hall. The new timetable has returned to FORTNIGHTLY stops so there will be 3 visits during February: Saturday 15th & 29th February 2020 Please do use this wonderful facility – it’s a great place to meet people, find out what’s happening in the village and exchange book ideas too!

This month I am reading... Beowulf translated by Seamus Heaney

... It harrowed him To hear the din of the loud banquet Every day in the hall, the harp being struck And the clear song of a skilled poet Telling with mastery of man’s beginnings, How the Almighty had made the earth A gleaming plain girdled with waters; In His splendour He set the sun and the moon To be earth’s lamplight, lanterns for men, And filled the broad lap of the world With branches and leaves; and quickened life In every other thing that moved.

At the end of last year there was a wonderful programme on BBC2 called ‘The Music of What Happens’ about the life and poetry of Seamus Heaney – intrigued, I got some books out of the library and fell in love with his poetry!

This led me to try out Heaney’s translation of Beowulf. This poem was composed some- time between the middle of the 7th century and the end of the 10th century AD, in a language that we call today Anglo Saxon or Old English. Whilst doing my History degree at Bristol University we had to take a compulsory module studying Middle English – it was very difficult, and I did not enjoy it! So reading Beowulf, one of the foundation works of poetry in English, is something I thought I’d never do – let alone be eager to do.

It is a heroic narrative (more than 3000 lines long) concerning the deeds of a Scandinavian prince called Beowulf. Written by an early Christian ,it has a wistfulness, Beowulf being the last warrior hero of his kind, with his world vanishing into myth and legend – along with the dreadful monster Grendel (and his mother!).

There are many versions of this fantasy epic (including one by J.R.R. Tolkein) but Heaney’s translation brings the story back to life with metaphor and alliteration giving drive and rhythm, and archaic words conveying mood and emotion. There are many echoes of Gerard Manley Hopkins, who was an inspiration to the young poet. “He is hasped and hooped and hirpling with pain, limping and looped with it” This translation has been described as ‘magnificent’ – and it is!

Katherine Bloomer

13 14

Monday 17th February, 8pm Kington St Michael Village Hall

You are invited to a FREE Environmental Evening OPEN TO ALL WOMEN

Speakers: WI National Federation Climate Ambassador (local member - Faith Ward) Wiltshire Wildlife Trust Wiltshire Council (waste/recycling)

Please email: [email protected]

to register interest so we can make sure we have enough chairs & refreshments!

Supper on the Run – 2020 By popular demand, ‘Supper on the Run’ will return to Kington Langley again this year, after a very successful gathering in June last year. This event provides a wonderful opportunity to meet new friends and renew old acquaintances within the Village. More information will follow in the April edition of the Village Magazine. Should you wish to commit at this early stage, then do let us know.

Carol & Steve Duffill [email protected] 750301

Please come along and support us.

TEA, COFFEE and CAKE at Kington Langley Village Hall Saturday 1st February 10:00 - 11:30

The Wiltshire Home Library Service Bringing the Library to you

The home library service is there for people of any age who are:

 Blind or partially sighted,  disabled in some way,  suffering a long term illness,  recovering from an operation and in need of short term help,  elderly and frail,  unable to carry library books,  carers who cannot easily leave home,  experiencing mental health problems

A member of library staff will talk to you about what you like to read. They will then visit you at home with a library volunteer and bring you some books. Every few weeks the library volunteer will call at a time to suit you and exchange your books. There are no fines or charges for this service and you can request items too.

Contact your local library or telephone the Access and Volunteer Manager on 01225 713706, or email [email protected]

Amaze Excite Inspire

‘Jesus offers life in all its fullness’

Caring for the Environment This year we are working hard at school to be more environmentally friendly, and this has been led by our children. Our Pegasus Eco Warriors (pictured above) are making sure that we recycle more, and our School Council have raised their concerns about parking outside school. They spoke so eloquently that I thought I would share their views .

They have spotted that some parents leave their engines running while waiting outside at pick up time or at drop off in the morning while they wait for the school doors to open. They said that they don’t want to have the fumes and pollution, and want parents to stop doing that. The Council members said: “Pollution is bad – it has been a big thing and I don’t know if the parents are taking it in – my mum just turns off the engine and it’s just simple.” As well as the health and environmental issues, they also spotted that it is wasting money: “If they leave their engine running every day they’re just using more fuel which is bad for them because it costs money.”

They have also spotted some parents driving on the grass, and got really upset at that. They said that it wrecks the grass, and that the little children in particular wouldn’t expect cars to be on the grass, so they won’t looking out for them and could get knocked over. Children said: “Driving on the grass is just silly because there have been a few times when people have got stuck on the grass.” and “Parking on the grass is not showing a good example to other parents.”

Some of the School Council members said they had seen people parking across drive- ways and wanted people to stop doing that: “We shouldn’t really do that because that’s not owned by the school, and you don’t know if they’re going to need to come out.”

Best wishes, Richard Hearn, Headteacher

Dog Walking Advert Hi I’m Alexandra Feltham, 22 years old. I live in Kington Langley and enjoy being part of the community. Available for paid dog walking from March 2020. Passionate about dogs and caring for them, and I will care for your dog like it’s my own.

Babysitting Also available for Babysitting, having 3 years experience in Nurseries and Child Care. Was accepted in to Norland Nanny College Have a full driving license. Please contact me on : 01249 750069 [email protected]

Will you join our 6 Week Lent Challenge? 24th February – 12th April

How can we care for our world – God’s Creation? Have a go at the daily challenge and make a change

 Free booklet available in our churches and via our website: https://draycot.weebly.com  Follow on Twitter @DraycotChurches  Share on Facebook with DraycotChurches

Come along to the Launch Service Sunday 16th February, 10.30a.m. St Mary’s Church, Seagry

Together We Can Make Difference

THE BENEFICE OF DRAYCOT DIOCESE OF BRISTOL

21 22

Emma Morrice, Local Area Coordinator for the Chippenham Community Area.

Mob: 07391410278 Email : [email protected]

Wiltshire Council | County Hall | Bythesea Road | Trowbridge | BA14 8JN

The Harmonics female vocalists harmony group

We are looking for a few new members to join us . The group has ten members and we’re looking to increase by two more to allow resource for 4 part harmonies.

Some experience needed but you don’t need to read music.

This is a well established vocal harmony group which started up in 2012.

We rehearse on Monday evening in Kington Langley.

Regular attendance is important due to the size of this group.

You will find us very friendly and welcoming and we have a lot of fun.

Please text / ring Tam Turek 07767312289 for more information

23 24

Come and join in the Pancake Races

Saturday 29th February 2020 12 noon Meet outside St Peter’s Church, Kington Langley (bring your pan and a pancake!)

THE BENEFICE OF DRAYCOT

DIOCESE OF BRISTOL

CLOTHES SWAP—FREE Saturday 15th February, 7.30—9pm Hardenhuish School Hosted by Trinity Chippenham Church This is a chance to bring unwanted clothes (both adult & children), accessories, books, toys, anything really to swap with others. We would appreciate if you could sort clothes into size order (i.e. size 10, 12 ,14 etc), also for children's clothes (boy / girl and the age). Please could donations be dropped off at Hardenhuish School before the Clothes Swap at 6pm. Any unwanted items at the end of the event will be taken to local charity shops.

This is a free event. Don't worry if you only have a little or nothing to swap, we would love to see you there. This year we will also be doing a bake sale to raise money for Open Doors a charity which supports the persecuted church across the world.

Chippenham Museum—Volunteer Open Day SATURDAY 1st February, 11 am—2pm Drop in to learn more about opportunities to join our wonderful team of over 50 volunteers. We will be launching several new roles soon, both with visitors and supporting our work behind the scenes, watch this space!

Waste Collection Dates: February

BLACK BOX 13th and 27th February PLASTIC & CARDBOARD (blue lid) 14th and 28th February HOUSEHOLD WASTE 7th and 21st February GARDEN WASTE 6th and 20th February

Kington Langley WI

Last month we were transported to Ethiopia, Africa’s oldest independent country. We shared Julia Cook’s wonderful experience through her photographs of vast landscapes, fascinating architecture, including the ancient rock-cut Christian churches of the north, and of the people of Ethiopia. Lindi Reynolds provided refresher training on the use of the Defibrillators. Her presenta- tion included information on the location of all three machines in the village and she reminded us that information is also available on the village website. This month important decisions have to be made. Each year and for the past 100 years, the membership of the WI has selected resolutions which it wishes to support. Keep Britain Tidy, Mental Health Matters and Time to Talk about Organ Donation are all examples of campaigns that the WI has supported in the past. Wiltshire Federation initiated the SOS for Honey Bees Campaign, urging HM Government to increase funding for research into Bee Health. This year we have to select a resolution from the following topics: A call to increase potential stem cell donor registration; female crash test dummies; end modern slavery; time to talk about death and dying; and protect our precious helium. Every member can have her say on our next national campaign. If you want to know more, just ask a member of our WI. As well as selecting a resolution, this month’s meeting aims to tap into our creative talents. Karin Meek, a craft instructor, will be guiding us in the art of Painting on Pebbles. It will be a practical session, so please come and join us, just bring two smooth pebbles with you. Date of next meeting Wednesday 12 February, 7.30pm Venue Village Hall WI Journalist Elma Lawer

RADIO BOOKCLUB ON CROWZONE RADIO Thank you to Andrea, Kelly, Anne, Polly, Steve and Sheila for a spirited discussion of 'Mr Rosenblum's List' The book divided opinion, and scored a respectable 77%, not troubling our front runner 'Once Upon A River'. Our next book is 'Blood and Sugar' by Laura Shepherd-Robinson. This is a murder mys- tery set in London at the height of the Slave Trade. C J Sansom is a fan!

The discussion date will be Tuesday 11 February at 9 pm.

KINGTON LANGLEY CROQUET CLUB

We may be closed for play, but maintenance work continues on the lawns.

How about joining us for a game of croquet when our new season starts? Depending on the weather, our season will start in April and we will be holding our Open Day on Saturday 2nd May.

Prior to this we are holding a Whist Drive on 14th March and our Barn Dance will take place on Saturday 25th April - this year the music will be provided by the Jellied

Reels. Put the dates in your diary now.

Enquiries can be made by contacting Julia Cook: [email protected] or 07747 604982 and leave a message.

Alternatively, on our club email: [email protected]

Thank you to everyone for your ongoing support.

Raising funds for the Royal United Hospital Great Wall of China trek

Thanks to everyone’s amazing and generous support, a total of £2750 was raised for the hospital. It seems a long time ago but, in fact, was only a couple of months back that I set off with twenty fellow trekkers on our challenge to walk along the Great Wall. Although you see photos and TV footage, read books and hear accounts from people who have been there, nothing really prepares you for the reality of this magnificent structure. It meanders off into the distance, miles and miles of undulating wall occasionally stopping at one side of a peak before continuing on the other side. There are many towers, which provided shelter for the soldiers guarding the wall, and are often used nowadays by locals waiting to ply drinks and sell other souvenirs to visitors. The views of the wall pitching up and diving across rolling green hillsides, appearing and disappearing amongst forested slopes are stunning and our weather was particularly clement - blue, cloudless skies and sunshine every day. Over 6 days we walked different sections from the extremely well maintained to those in need of renovation. A programme of renovation is in place, and we saw several construc- tion teams digging out stones and rebuilding, however this is quite some task as the wall runs for over 8,000 km! The large majority of the visitors on the more accessible parts are Chinese, as Chairman Mao decreed, “You are not a hero until you have walked the Great Wall.” The walking itself can be very challenging as the steps have been deliberately built at different depths in order to discourage any successful invaders being able to maintain pace. One particular tower, the iconic ‘Heavenly Ladder’, is 460 steps and ascends at a 45 degree angle. Our guide, Yuan Ming, known to us all as Tony, his chosen English name, was an incredible walker and a fount of knowledge on many subjects. One evening, he gave us a very interesting talk on life in China and how it has changed and we were encouraged to ask him questions. A few topics remained taboo, like the Tiananmen Square protest and the current situation in Hong Kong. The tour of Beijing, which Tony led, saw us ride in rickshaws, visit the temple, Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City (along with the other daily 80,000 visitors), sample tea at a tasting, ‘enjoy’ a Chinese massage, which included the use of rubber mallets (!), before ending this final day sharing Peking duck. Overall, the trip was an amazing experience and the bonus was being able to raise so much money for the RUH. Many people have asked me what my next challenge is going to be and, until recently, I was content with what I have achieved. Now, a new challenge has been set – the India Dalai Lama trek, in the foothills of the Himalayas, and I’m quite tempted! Thanks again for all your support, Andrea

For those who like statistics: we walked a total of 88.42km – 116,454 steps.

29 Feb 2020 Changes/ additions contact Lindi 01249 750380 [email protected]

01 S Macmillan Coffee Morning (see advert in magazine)

02 Su

03 M Table Tennis 10 –12 VH: C.M.Dance 3.30-6 VH :Old Time Dancing VH 7.30

04 T TASKL 11.00 VH : Music & Movement group 10.am KSM VH : Hobbies 2.00 CR 05 W Kington Tots 9.45 – 11.00 VH

06 Th Pilates Class 10 – 11.00 VH : Short Mat Bowls 2.30 & 7.30 VH:

07 F Create Move Dance VH 9.45 – 11.45: KLWAS VH 8.00pm

08 S Old Time Dancing VH 7.30

09 Su Rural Arts “The Bird Show” VH 3.00pm

10 M Table Tennis 10 –12 VH : Create Move Dance 3.30-6 VH: Men’s Meeting Group The Jolly Huntsman: Old Time Dancing VH 7.30: Parish Council Meet- ing 7.45 CR 11 T Hobbies 2.00 CR

12 W Art Group 2 – 4pm VH : W.I Meeting 7.30 VH

13 Th Short Mat Bowls 2.30 & 7.30 VH

14 F Create Move Dance VH 9.45 – 11.45 :

15 S

16 Su

17 M Table Tennis 10 –12 VH : C.M.Dance 3.30-6 VH Old Time Dance VH 7.30

18 T Hobbies 2.00 CR

19 W

20 Th Short Mat Bowls 2.30 & 7.30 VH

21 F Create Move Dance VH 9.45 – 11.45: Film Society 8pm VH

22 S

23 Su

24 M Table Tennis 10 – 12 VH: C.M.Dance 3.30-6 VH: Old Time Dancing VH 7.30

25 T M& Mvt 10.am KSM VH: Hobbies 2.00 CR

26 W Kington Tots 9.45 – 11.00 VH: Art Group 2 – 4pm VH

27 Th Pilates Class 10 – 11.00 VH : Short Mat Bowls 2.30 & 7.30 VH

28 F Create Move Dance VH 9.45 – 11.45 :

29 S Pancake Races at St Peter’s Church, 12 noon

30 March 2020 For VH Bookings contact www.klvh.org or booking Clerk 07864981217

01 Su

02 M Table Tennis 10 –12 VH: C. M. Dance 3.30 VH: Old Time Dance VH 7.30 :

03 T TASKL 11.00 VH : M& Mvt 10.am KSM VH: Hobbies 2.00 CR:

04 W Kington Tots 9.45–11.00 VH:

05 Th

06 F Create Move Dance VH 9.45 – 11.45: KLWAS VH 8.00pm

07 S “Bowjangles” Rural Arts VH 7.30

08 Su

09 M Table Tennis 10 – 12 VH: C.M.Dance 3.30-6 VH : Men’s Meeting Group The Jolly Huntsman: Parish Council Meeting 7.45 CR :Old Time Dancing VH 7.30 : 10 T M& Movt 10.am KSM VH : Hobbies 2.00 CR

11 W Kington Tots 9.45 –11.00 VH: Art Group 2– 4pm VH: WI Meeting 7.30 VH

12 Th Pilates Class 10 – 11.00 VH : Short Mat Bowls 2.30 & 7.30 VH:

13 F Create Move Dance VH 9.45 – 11.45

14 S Croquet Club whist Drive VH 2pm : Old Time Dancing VH 7.30

15 Su

16 M Table Tennis 10 – 12 VH: C.M.Dance 3.30-6 VH : Old Time Dance VH 7.30 :

17 T M& Movt 10.am KSM VH : Hobbies 2.00 CR

18 W Kington Tots 9.45 – 11VH:

19 Th Pilates Class 10 – 11.00 VH : Short Mat Bowls 2.30 & 7.30 VH

20 F Create Move Dance VH 9.45 – 11.45: Film Society 8pm VH

21 S

22 Su

23 M Table Tennis 10 VH: C.M.Dance 3.30-6 VH : Old Time Dance VH 7.30

24 T Hobbies 2.00 CR

25 W Kington Tots 9.45 – 11VH Art Group 2 – 4pm VH :

26 Th Pilates Class 10 – 11.00 VH : Short Mat Bowls 2.30 & 7.30 VH

27 F Create Move Dance VH 9.45 – 11.45

28 S

29 Su

30 M Table Tennis 10 VH: C.M.Dance 3.30-6 VH : Old Time Dance VH 7.30

31 T Hobbies 2.00 CR

From the Village Hall Roof December 2019

The temperatures for December were overall cooler this year than last by some 1 ˚C. There was 21 days with some rain, frost on 9 days. Christmas day saw a high of 12.2 ˚C, slightly higher than the last 2 years and was the second warmest day in the month. Temperatures

Average 9.04 ˚C Maximum 12.6 ˚C on the 10th Minimum - 0.4 ˚C on the 4th Mildest night Lowest temperature 8.61˚C on the 19th Coldest day Highest temperature 5.7 ˚C on the 2nd and the 4th

Wind Speed

Average 5.22 mph for the whole month Peak gust 30.6 mph on the 10th Windiest day The 8th with 16.44 mph. Calmest day The 16th and 17th with 0.1mph.

Sunshine

Sunniest day The 25th in a very dull month Dullest day The 27th

Rain

Total rainfall 5.22 inches (132.5mm) with .85 inches (21.6mm) on the 12th

Observations Another pretty dull month in Kington Langley but a bright Christmas Day. On 16th Decem- ber 1890, out of a possible 242 hours and 40 minutes of sunshine, London’s fog ensures Westminster is the only place ever to record a zero for sunshine. The Cross Hands, in Old Sodbury, 13 Dec 1981 welcomes the Queen after 2 royal Range Rovers are stranded in drifting snow. Two chauffeurs, two detectives, a lady in waiting, a staff aid and Her Majesty are stuck. More than a hundred stranded motorists are also welcomed into the bar. The highest December temperature in Britain occurs in Achfary, Scotland on the 28th this year at 18.7 ˚C. PG/GWH

Kington Langley Village Hall and KLVH are working names of the Kington Langley Village Hall &

Recreation Ground Charitable Incorporated Organisation

Sunflower Women

Come Join Us!

Would you like to join us in making new friends and creating a community of women who support and empower each other to achieve our goals? We will be meeting weekly in Chippenham from January 2020 in small groups to chat and share ideas and resources in a relaxed atmosphere. There is no charge to attend (coffee & cake is optional :) and women of all ages and walks of life are welcome. Topics will be based on the needs and interests of the individual group but may include:

 Building Confidence

 Work & Career

 Debt & Finances

 Goals & Success

 Relationships

 Health & Fitness

 Creativity

From small seeds, great ideas can bloom and flourish! For more information contact: Facebook Group: Sunflower Women Email: [email protected]

Kington Langley Village Magazine Website Trial Survey Results Over the last three months we have been trialling the website. This month, we sent out a survey to those who took part in the trial. 60% completed the survey. Here are the results: Having tried the Online Version, would you prefer to use the …

ON LINE VERSION

BOTH VERSIONS

37.5% answered ‘Online Only’ 0% answered ‘Paper Only’ 62.5% answered ‘Both’ Did you find the Calendar format (on the “What’s on” page) useful? 100% answered ‘Yes’ Did you find articles and information easier to access? 87.5% answered ‘Yes’ 12.5% answered ‘No’ Did it make you want to contribute more? 37.5% answered ‘Yes’ 62.5% answered ‘No’ Did you feel more engaged with the electronic medium? 87.5% answered ‘Yes’ 12.5% answered ‘No’ And lastly, please can you tell us how old you are… 25% Under 18 12.5% 35-44 25% 45-54 25% 55-64 12.5% 65+

The information below is a summary of the comments received.

What did you like MOST about the online version?

Well Categorised Easy Navigation Calendar Format Easy Access Eco Friendly Mobile Friendly Search Feature Older Versions Blog Good Design

What did you like LEAST about the online version?

Nothing Bus Link Broken Like More photos Remove old events

Have you any improvements, thoughts or suggestions? (Includes other feedback during the trial)

Include Extra Content Information on Walks Younger articles

Reorganisation of Tabs More photos PC agenda, etc

Great design Good idea Will keep using Notice board order Consider Blog design Like Calendar Format

Thanks to Ben Cunningham for all his hard work to date on the on line version of this magazine, and collating these survey results. The Magazine Committee will meet to discuss the results, and consider the way forward - we’ll keep you updated on progress...

FOSSEWAY NEWS 01249 448844 e- mail [email protected] We can deliver newspapers and magazines to Chippenham and surrounding areas. Delivery is charged depending on location. Available 7 days a week. For more information ring and ask for Julie.

Church Action in a Climate Emergency

Saturday 21st March, 10 -3pm at St Andrews Church, Chippenham

Book tickets through www.eventbrite.co.uk

A FREE day conference to support churches in taking further action to care for our shared environment.

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Parish Council Report for meeting held 13th Jan 2020 Members were saddened to learn that Dennis Gill had passed away that morning. Dennis was a long serving member of the Parish Council. For many years he took the role of Vice Chairman and was the PC’s representative for the village hall, for which he was also the chairman, Neighbourhood Watch, Police Liaison and footpaths. Reports to the Annual Parish meetings have not been the same since Dennis retired from these roles. Dennis was active in other areas of village life and will be sadly missed as a long-term resident of Kington Langley.

Ollie Phipps, the Chippenham Community Engagement manager attended the meeting to outline his role. Ollie manages the Area Board budget for Chippenham and surrounding villages and explained that applications for grant funding can be made twice each year. He is also the Youth Office and Health and Wellbeing officer and has smaller budgets to fund activities related to these. Last September he co-ordinated the very successful Big Get Together at the Neeld Hall which brought together various clubs and organisations to provide a showcase of activities that will encourage people to participate. He will be repeating this venture in 2020.

Cllrs Pattemore and Reynolds walked Byway 34 with Stephen Leonard, the Rights of Way Warden to ask his advice on maintaining the Byway. He is very familiar with the area having worked on the byway several times and gave practical advice and possible solutions. When road planings are available in our area he will provide them to in fill and upgrade parts of the route. Many Parishes now have volunteer groups who undertake work on Byways with materials that Stephen will provide, if you are interested in becoming a volunteer please contact Cllr Sue Pattemore who will put you in touch with Stephen.

The Parish Council is still seeking a volunteer to act as a Transport Coordinator for the village. Anyone undertaking this role will not need to attend PC meetings on a regular basis.

The school is planning to introduce a new scheme in school called 11 by 11 – basically eleven things that they would like all our children to have done in the time they are at primary school. They are considering making one of the items ‘plant a tree’ and wondered if there are places in the parish where they could plant up to 28 trees per year, which the school would provide. As he feels this project ties in very well with the Zero Chippenham initiative, Cllr Max Sealy generously offered a site which will provide space for trees over many years. However, if any resident would be interested in having one or more trees planted on their land please contact Liz Howe at the school or Cllr Sealy.

Due to the Christmas Holidays the speed watch teams were only roadside for 3 hours during this session. 1020 vehicles were recorded with 17 travelling in excess of 35mph.

Councillor Reynolds

Winter Opening Times Stanton St Quinton Household Recycling Centre

From 1st November until 31st March 10am until 4pm

CLOSED Thursdays and Fridays

Rural Arts Touring “Big Ideas in Small Spaces”

The Bird Show Sunday 9th February, 3pm A flap-tastic fact-filled family comedy by The Last Baguette Theatre Company

With frolics and foraging, flitting, flying and two unusual feathery friends, this is a madcap and touching show about birds facing changes to their habitat. The Bird Show uses live music, puppetry and lots of silly bird jokes in this heart- fluttering physical comedy.

We follow Henry the Heron and Sally the House Sparrow on a zany journey to become friends while facing ecological threats to their habitat. This colourful, visual show gently explores the impact of humans on nature and asks the question - what can we do differently?

**** "Funny, charming and thought-provoking" – CreativeReviewsUK “Comical songs and mesmerising puppetry blend with facts and jokes to create a thought-provoking, touching piece of theatre about conservation, migration and imagination.” - Weston-super-Mum “The energy and commitment of the company is infectious…This is unique small scale theatre with a great heart” – Theatre Bath

Suitable for the whole brood ,including fledglings from 3+

Tickets: £5 under 16, £10 full, £8 concessions, £25 family (2 + 2).

Available from [email protected] or Langley Fitzurse school office (9 – 12, term

weekdays), or online from poundarts.org.uk.

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Planting the Alder by Seamus Heaney

For the bark, dulled argent, roundly wrapped And pigeon-collared.

For the splitter-splatter, guttering Rain-flirt leaves.

For the snub and clot of the first green cones, Smelted emerald, chlorophyll.

For the scut and scat of cones in winter, So rattle-skinned, so fossil-brittle.

For the alder-wood, flame-re when torn Branch from branch.

But mostly for the swinging locks Of yellow catkins,

Plant it, plant it, Steel-head in the rain.

Please DON’T put batteries in your bin— they can cause fires. Batteries can be recycled at most shops which sell them and at Wiltshire Council recycling centres.

Save the Date - Scarecrows 2020! Get your diaries out – the 2020 Kington Langley Scarecrow Festival will take place on:

Saturday 20th & Sunday 21st June

This year’s theme is Olympians – either the sporting kind or the Greek legends. Register your scarecrow at www.scarecrows.biz, and be quick! Popular Olympians are quickly being snapped up – we’ve already had 30 registrations.

As well as scarecrow makers, we are again in need of volunteers. It’s you guys that make this event possible so we’re asking for people to spare a few hours at some point over the weekend to help man our CrowBar, BBQ, tea tent or car parks. If you’re able to help please head over to http:// www.scarecrows.biz/volunteering.html and let us know what roles you’re willing to do and what time slots you’re available. We’re grateful for everyone we can get.

If the excitement of June seems too far away right now, then you’ll also be happy to learn that the annual Scarecrows Quiz Night is scheduled for 21st March. We hope to see you there!

Best wishes, Steve Howe, Chair of Scare

Renewable Energy Strategy workshops organized by the Centre for Sustainable Energy Chippenham Town Hall

Saturday 15th February 2020 (9.30am-4.30pm).

The event is free to attend for a maximum of 20 participants, but is ticketed. Tickets are available on a first come, first served basis and are available through Eventbrite. The workshops will be highly participative. Coffee, tea and a light lunch will be provided.

This first workshop will be followed by a 2hr evening weekday workshop (date tbc) to bring together views after everyone has had a chance to think about and discuss out- comes from the workshop with other people. Tickets for the follow-up workshop will be released after the 15th February workshop event has taken place. Participants should be able to attend both events.

http://chippenhamneighbourhoodplan.org.uk/news/renewable-energy-strategy- workshops/

THE ARTS SOCIETY KINGTON LANGLEY is an affiliated member of The Arts Society,. We meet monthly at 11.00am on the 1st Tuesday of the month (except August & September)

Our lecture for January was very seasonal “Painting Winter – Snow Scenes in Art”. Magical, festive, beautiful, harsh, cruel and bleak – this talk explored the variety of interpretations of this season through the works of Brueghel, Caspar David Friedrich, Monet, and Andrew Wyeth.

The lecturer, Stella Grace Lyons is a relatively new lecturer for The Arts Society. She gained her BA in the History of Art with a 1st class in her dissertation from the University of Bristol, and her MA in History of Art at the University of Warwick. She spent a year studying Renaissance art in Italy at the British Institute of Florence, and three months studying Venetian art in Venice. Stella also works as an artist’s model for the internation- ally renowned figurative artist, Harry Holland.

Wintry and snowy landscapes are not seen in early European painting since most of the subjects were religious. Stella began her lecture with a slide showing February in the famous cycle of Les Tres Riches Heures du Duc de Berry made by the Limbourg brothers 1412 -1416. Close inspection caused many chuckles as it depicts 2 labourers warming their naked nether regions at the fire. A close inspection of Avercamp’s vibrant painting of Winter Landscape with Skaters (circa 1608) also reveals several amusing details such as fallen skaters and naked buttocks. It was early in the frigid winter of 1565 that Brueghel created The Hunters in the Snow, regarded as the first true winter landscape painting and illustrating how hard life was for villagers during “The Little Ice Age”

Stella used slides of the work of various artists to trace the development of subject matter and techniques. Reaburn’s “The Skating Minister” (1790) is unusual in both its composition and its setting. Friedrich’s “Winter Landscape” 1811 needs close scrutiny to discern the church, the man and the cross through the gloom of a winter day. In contrast Monet’s “The Magpie” 1868 depicts the light of the sun shining upon freshly fallen snow creating blue shadows. The painting features one of the first examples of Monet's use of coloured shadows, later associated with the Impressionist movement.

Brilliant news - Each year the Young Arts Representatives from each art society are invited to visit local school’s A level Exhibitions and choose work that fits in with the criteria of the Royal Society of British Artists competition guidelines. We have just heard that we have had a student’s work selected to appear at the Royal Over Seas League Gallery and The Mall Gallery. Only about twenty pieces are selected each year, so it is highly prestigious to get through the selection round and have your work make it to London. Our congratulations to the student and her teacher.

Please explore our website taskl.org.uk to find out more about us and how you can join the society.

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Rural Arts Wiltshire

“Big Ideas in Small Spaces”

Excalibow by Bowjangles Saturday 7th March, 7.30pm

I am really excited that Bowjangles are returning to Kington Langley. Expect a lively show and a full village hall! Bowjangles are a string quartet who can really play. They dance whilst they play. They sing whilst they play. They leap, tumble, juggle and joke whilst they play. Award-winning comedy musicians Bowjangles present their most magical show so far – a theatrical, musical journey through myths, folklore, legends and a portal in a cello case in the quest to find the most priceless relic of all – a magical violin bow known as Excalibow. You can expect tales of monsters, ancient gods, historical figures and characters of pure fantasy in this action-packed show, all presented in Bowjangles’ own inimitable and unique style, full of comedy, energy, and almost every musical genre you can imagine. May contain traces of ABBA.

★★★★ “full of zest, action and charisma... unfailingly entertaining” - Chortle

★★★★★ “Completely original… the music would be entertaining enough without all the other incredible action and comedy going on… …The show is a whimsical and hilarious adventure through music and there’s plenty to delight… these guys aren’t afraid of a good pun and they absolutely embrace the bad ones but it’s all perfectly orchestrated to entertain. Make it your quest to gather a fellowship and set out to see this show; you’ll be greatly rewarded by these Lords of the Strings.” - Broadway Baby Tickets are £10 full, £8 concessions, £5 under 16, £25 family (2 + 2). Available from [email protected] or 01249 750362 or Langley Fitzurse school office (9 – 12, term weekdays). Or book online: https://poundarts.org.uk/whats-on/bowjangles-excalibow/

Visit www.bowjangles.org or www.facebook.com/bowjanglesmusic

Kington Langley Village Hall and KLVH are working names of the Kington Langley Village Hall and Recreation Ground Charitable Incorporated Organisation

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SILVER STREET GARAGE Established for 30 years Competitive prices for work undertaken on all makes and models of cars and light commercial vehicles. Servicing and Repairs – MOT Testing – Welding Timing Belts – Clutches – Exhausts Brakes – Batteries – Valeting & Steam Cleaning Diagnostics – Free Courtesy Car Free Collection and Delivery Telephone:- 01249 715020 Silver Street Garage, Silver Street, Gastard, Nr Corsham, Wiltshire

Weather in Kington Langley for 2019. Below is a summary of our weather for 2019. Hot and Cold. The coldest spell was January 30th to February 2nd with a day-time high of 4.3C (29.84F) and a night-time low of -4.7 C (23.54F) on the 3rd February. The warmest spell was from July 23rd to July 25th with the July 23rd and 25th re- cording a day-time high of 31.0C (87.8F) and a night-time low of 18.0C (64.4F). And for anyone planning their garden, or inviting visitors to stay, here is a picture of our average high and low temperatures. During the day we had 360 days greater than 5C (41F), 286 days greater than 10C (50F), 74 days greater than 21C (70F) and 18 days greater than 25C (77F). During the night we had 11 nights less than 0C (32F), but frost on 48 occasions, 84 nights less than 4.5C (40F) and 138 nights greater than 10C (50F).

Wet and Dry. Our wettest day was September 24th with 35.31 mm (1.39inch) of rain. The wettest month was December with 132.59 mm (5.22 inch) of rain. Total rainfall for the year was 779.62mm (30.7inch) Three good dry spells without any appreciable rain were May 9th to June 8th some 31 days followed by June 26th to July 18th some 23 days and by another of 38 days between August 17th and September 23rd. May was our driest month with only 28.45mm (1.12inch) of rain. Our longest period with rain was during November when only 5 days were rain free and in December where only 10 days were clear of rain. We had 152 days with some rain. Continued on page 53

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The Wind. Our windiest month was March with an average wind speed of 9.65 mph. From March 2nd to March 17th the wind only once got below an average of 10mph and gusts were over 20mph on all 16 days. The strongest gust of wind was on April 15th 37.02 mph. The windiest day was April 27th with winds averaging 19.75mph.

National Weather Despite 2019 only being the 11th warmest year several British heat records were broken. On February 26th 21.2 C was recorded at Kew Gardens in London; on July 25th Britain’s hottest day at 38.7C was recorded at Cambridge Botanical Gardens; on December 28th the hottest December day was recorded at 18.7C in Achfary, Scotland and on February 23rd the temperature did not drop below 13.9C for 24 hours in Achnagarat,Scotland. PG/GWH

Kington Langley Village Hall and KLVH are working names of the Kington Langley Village Hall & Recreation Ground Charitable Incorporated Organisation 53

- First Class Painter & Decorator - - General Household Repair & Maintenance - - Fully Insured - - Free Estimates - - Over 25 Years of Professional Experience - Call Ted on 07887 641336 or e-mail: [email protected]

Wiltshire Air Ambulance Recycling Scheme

Thank you to those who are continuing to bring me items for recycling. The contact lens scheme is no longer operating. Please try to separate different categories of the recycling as they go to different hubs. Make sure the item is free of crumbs / leftovers. Please rinse and dry baby pouches / pet food pouches. THANK YOU

Throughout the county, the scheme raised almost £12,000 over a six month period.

If you want more details email me: [email protected] or leave a message on 07747 604 982

Carols on the Common 2019

Not strictly ‘on the common’ this year, as inclement weather and very muddy conditions underfoot meant that the event moved into the Chapel. Sarah, playing piano, led the band of musicians, two saxophones, two trumpets and a tuba, through the carols under the overall direction of John Gill. Refreshments of mulled wine and mince pies, courtesy of the Chapel, were enjoyed by everyone after the community singing. A collection of £50.37 was raised for the Doorway charity. Thanks to all who attended and supported the charity.

ADVANCE NOTICE: This year the event will be held on Thursday, 17 December outside the school.

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From the Registers Holy Baptism 12th January 2020 Baptism of Alexander Meadows at All Saints, Sutton Benger. “I have called you by name and you are mine” Isaiah 43.1

Funerals 14th December 2020 Burial of ashes of Mr William Reeves at All Saints, Christian Malford. “I know that my Redeemer lives” Job 19.25

Dates for the diary

Morning Prayer at Sutton Benger church every Friday at 9am ‘Be Still’ Meditation—please note that these sessions are taking a break. Christian Fellowship Meetings: These will be held on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month at Bramley Croft, Sutton Lane, Sutton Benger (the 2nd bungalow in Sutton Lane) at 3pm. They will include tea and cake, chat time and a ‘thought for the day’.

Children’s Choir Starting again Tuesdays 5.15—6pm Sutton Benger Church. Meeting dates are: 4th, 11th and 25th February 10th, 17th, 24th and 31st March All welcome. Contact Rev. Alison on 01249 720619

Would you like a lift to church? If you find it difficult to travel outside of your village, or do not have your own transport, or would like to car share please contact the Church warden of your parish church in good time and they will help make arrangements for transport.

For enquiries or bookings, please contact the Draycot Benefice Administrator, Maggie (Tuesdays only) on 01666 511357.

Find us on Facebook: search for Draycot Churches

Visit our website: draycot.weebly.com

Charity Representatives British Tinnitus Assn. Betty Bird 750551 The Children’s Society Enid Campbell 758457 Scarecrows www.scarecrows.biz 750466

Clubs, Organisations &

Groups

Art Group Jean Shepherd 750014 Board Games Club Graham Longley - Brown 750310 Create Move Dance Georgie Taylor 750619 Croquet Club Ian Morrison 758499

Footpath Rep., Rights of Way Gazette & Herald Tony Shepherd 750014 Hobbies Group Mary Renfree 750430 Kington Langley Film Society Pippa Cooper 750343

KL Wine Appreciation Society [email protected] 07810 647183 Kington Tots Kelly Ratcliffe 07747186419 Old Tyme & Mod Sq Dance Ray Phillips 01285 771311 Short Mat Bowls Sec. Maureen Collett 654619

Table Tennis Tania Bennett 750379 Tennis Club Treasurer Jens Andersen 750391 The Arts Society Kgton Langley Lindi Reynolds 750380 Village Diary Lindi Reynolds 750380

Walks Sylvia Chumbley 750269 Women’s Institute President Sylvia Townsend 701200

Every effort has been made to update the contact information and to include all the groups, clubs, organisations and charities.

Please contact the Editor if any information is out of date or incorrect, or to fill in the gaps!

If you know of any other groups, clubs, organisations or charities that meet in the village, please do send contact details to the Editor. Thank you.

The address for the village website: www.kingtonlangley.org

Village Contacts

Magazine Committee Chairman Colin Coles 750631 Editor Katherine Bloomer 721569 Distribution Organiser Tony Shepherd 750014 Advertisement Organiser Gill Spurway 750252

Parish Council Chairman Dr. Maurice Dixson 758171 Vice Chairman and Webmaster Graham Trickey 750359 Clerk Sue Webb 01666 824620 CEV Peter Hart 750428

Union Chapel Pastor Athanasius Velianitis 750449

St Peter’s Church Rector Revd. Alison Love 720619 Curate Revd. Mark Siddall 652752 Church Warden Andrea Grafton 750638

Church Warden Tom Stables 758241

Langley Fitzurse School Headteacher Richard Hearn 750295 LFPTA Chair Amy Stenner 07827440423

Village Hall Mgmt Comm. Chairman Tony Shepherd 750014 Booking Clerk Julia Cook 07864 981217

Wiltshire and Swindon Community Messaging www.wiltsmessaging.co.uk

 FREE messages and alerts from your local Community Policing Team about policing and crime matters in our area  You can receive free messages by text, email or voicemail.  Currently message are being sent by Wiltshire Police, Wiltshire Neighbourhood Watch, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Rescue Service, Action Fruad, Farm Watch and Horse Watch. You can change your preference or unsubscribe to the system at any time by logging in to your account or emailing: [email protected]

Wiltshire and Swindon Community Messaging is NOT monitored 24 hours a day. Always call 999 in an emergency or 101 in a non emergency