Stow timeS Issue 100 • May 2012
An independent paper delivered to homes & businesses in Stow-on-the-Wold, Broadwell, Adlestrop, Oddington, Bledington, Icomb, Church Westcote, Nether Westcote, Wyck & Little Rissington, Maugersbury, Nether Swell, Lower & Upper Swell, Naunton, Donnington, Condicote, Longborough and Temple Guiting Copies go into the GO-STOW Information Centre, Burford Information Centre, and onto the Villager Bus. Copies are also available at centres around Kingham and Guiting Powers. Extra copies are generally available in the Stow Library.
2 01 2 ay M • on iti Ed h 0t 10 THE COFFEE HOUSE FEEl likE a TrEa T? Tempura Battered king Prawns - £6.75 Grilled Goats Cheese, Toasted Pine Nuts & rocket Salad - £4.95 Smoked Mackerel Paté, Melon & Watercress Salad with Melba Toast - £5.50 Chicken Caesar Salad - £8.45 8oz local Dexter Beef Burger with Beef Tomato, Served in a Toasted Bun with Coleslaw and Shoestring Chips or Salad - £9.95 Tempura Battered Haddock & Shoestring Chips with Mushy Peas & Tartar Sauce - £11.95
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2 Stow timeS
From the Editor Inside this edition Our CONGRATULATIONS to the STOW RUGBY FOOTBALL TEAMS, County Champions for the second year! FEATURES 10 Pardon my Anglo-Saxon from John S. Curtis May 2012 – Stow Times publishes its 11 Incentives for Renewable Heat and Electricity from Julia Bennett and Charlie 100th edition. Mackinnon-Little By Jenni Turner, Editor. 15 ‘A Horse in the Bathroom’ –a new book about life in Stow, by local author Derek Taylor Issue 1: Jan/Feb 2004. The first Stow Times ever - a six-page black and white newsletter, photocopied, stapled together and delivered by two 17 Three Towns Tour – Bob Forster explores the deserted Cotswolds of us into 1,000 letterboxes in Stow. Restricted by my limited PC skills 21 Care-full Consideration – Carole Foster looks at planning it was simple text - it was months before I could include photos, and 25 Stow Festival of Writing – 1st to 4th June years before we boldly went into colour. 26, 27 Diamond Jubilee Celebrations – Events and celebrations Eight years later there are over eighty people involved, almost 44 Zoonoses – diseases we can catch from local wildlife, by Martin Whitehead everybody is a volunteer, including me, and we produce four magazines a month that are delivered to almost 12,000 letterboxes 45 Enhancing the Sherborne Watermeadows – from Will Masefield around this wonderful corner of the Cotswolds. It has grown because 47,48 ‘The Falls of Falloch’ – a short story by Nicholas John people in different communities around Stow asked if they could have it, too? “Yes, and we will carry all your local events and news free of REGULARS charge in exchange for your community’s help with delivering to your community”. 10 NCCR – Your local radio station needs YOU 16 Book Reviews from Cotswold Bookstore The scale has changed but very little else. The basic premise is still to support the community, sharing information and promoting local 19, 22, 23, 49 News from around the Communities businesses. It’s the businesses who advertise with us who provide the 28 Report from Stow Town Council income that pays our bills - essentially Chris our designer, who makes us look glamorous, and our printers, with a few expenses along the 29 News from Local Authorities & Associations way. Although I regularly hear that ‘Stow Times is all advertising these days’, on average it’s only about a third of the pages each month that 30 Village Halls carry commercial advertising. All the other pages are ‘unfunded’ 31 Local Church Services community and editorial pages, and these are ‘sponsored’ by Stow Times. News about your club, an advert for your local event, these are 32 Local Cinemas and regular events; Bargain prices on Small Ads all carried free of charge, sponsored by Stow Times and supported by 33-40 LOCAL EVENTS and EVENTS DIARY all the people who deliver the magazines - and without whose help Stow Times literally couldn’t function. Interestingly, these are the 41 Walks with the Cotswold Wardens same people who come along to your event and support your club – 42, 43 Correspondence – Ashton House; ‘charity’ bags: Litter. so they really are unsung community heroes! 46 Robb Eden – dealing with HMRC Is there a future? I hope so, we have plans - but it’s clear that I will 50 - 52 Reports from some of our local Schools never achieve publishing magnate status! The Murdochs have nothing to fear from these Times magazines! Meanwhile, we have been 56 - 61 News & Reports from some of the Local Sports Clubs, etc.. requested to provide three editions of Chipping Norton Times for the research team of ‘Have I Got News for You?’, so you may see us on TV 62, 63 Rotary News from N.Cotswold and N.Cotswold Lions any time now – that’s pretty exciting! 65, 65 News & reports from local clubs and societies Stow Times is all about community – the more we all put into it, the 67 Local Business Directory more we can all get out of it. So congratulations to everyone who has NB. Our List of Clubs, Societies & Associations, etc is being updated and been involved with Stow Times, and everyone who is involved now. I hope you have enjoyed it as much as I have, and thank you for your will be back in June. support and interest. PS. More help will always be welcome – ‘in all departments’. I have really appreciated ‘backroom’ assistance on this 100th edition from Best wishes, Jenni Turner Christabel Hardacre, Jane Gleghorn, Jan Marley and Anna Malysz. As you Editor will see there is a broad collection of features from a growing number of contributors and correspondents. They bring depth and variety to this Our next edition is for June - it comes out at the end of May. The edition and I hope you will enjoy it, brought to you by one of our wonderful copydate is 15th May 2012. volunteer deliverers.
Our design team this month was Eagle Design Ltd. Telephone Stow Times on 0845 230 8955 / www.eagledesign.net Extra copies of Stow Times are generally available at Go-Stow, Stow’s Visitor Information Centre in Talbot Court, Stow, in St Edwards Hall and at Stow 07789 175 002 Library. Copies are also carried on The Villager Bus. (The phone will take your messages too – leave your name & contact number; we will return your call.) Material published in this magazine is copyright; the Editor may give permission for copy to be reproduced for some purposes. The opinions expressed in this magazine are not email STOW TIMES on necessarily those of the Editor or any member of the team. The magazines are produced and delivered almost entirely by volunteers. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the [email protected] accuracy of information printed in the magazine, the Editor/team do not accept any www.stowtimes.co.uk responsibility for the consequences of any errors that may occur. P O Box 6, Sheep Street, Our Front Cover photograph “Evenlode Bluebells” taken by James Stow on the Wold, GL54 1WD Minter. JamesMinter© for Stow Times
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RSPCA Week raises income and awareness of the work the RSPCA does, it's been going since 1995. Over £320,000 was raised last year, helping to pay for our inspectors, veterinary care for or injured rescues, emergency help for pet owners who can’t afford veterinary treatment and care for locally rescued animals. On average a volunteer collects around £70 during RSPCA Week – this would cover the cost of standard veterinary treatments for an animal taken into our care for a month.
Pledges for animals The RSPCA has made 5 pledges to improve animals’ lives over the next 5 years. 1. To end the over-population of companion animals 2. To end the euthanasia of any rehomeable animal 3. To increase the proportion of animals reared under higher welfare systems in the UK 4. To reduce the numbers of animals in UK who undergo suffering when used in experiments Patricia Cook 5. To reduce the number of exotic animals kept as pets. Catering www.rspca.org.uk for every occasion 01451 830450 Funeral Director [email protected] & Memorial Consultant PHIL DADGE W. J. Wright PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
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9 PARDON MY ANGLO-SAXON A little light research by John S. Curtis
The other day I was doing some small jobs around the house when I allowed my attention to slip. Unerringly my hammer struck my thumbnail a sharp blow. As the LISTEN ONLINE – northcotswoldonline.com bright shards of pain spread like a tidal wave from my thumb to my brain…….I said “ouch”. YOUR RADIO STATION NEEDS YOU! An innocuous exclamation you might think, given both The call has gone out for volunteers to join the team at the trying circumstances and my vast encyclopaedic North Cotswold Community Radio (NCCR) after a number of knowledge of other more expressive four-letter words. opportunities opened up for both presenters and backroom Nevertheless, “Ouch” is what I said. staff. As the agony subsided to a dull persistent throb I The highly successful internet-based station, which can mused upon this strange unlovely word and it’s boast listeners from all corners of the globe, has seen provenance….would, for instance, a vexed Ethiopian several volunteers taking ‘sabbaticals’ recently due to say “Ouch” as his bare and horny foot descended upon educational, family or work commitments and Chairman an irate scorpion? Robb Eden is keen to see the team maintained at full strength. Celebrating it fifth birthday this year, NCCR has Would a Tartar tribesman say “Ouch” upon falling from openings for anyone interested in broadcasting either as a his hardy little pony to the sharp and unforgiving riocks career or a hobby and Mr Eden is eager to hear from of the Gobi Desert? potential recruits of all ages. I think not. Regularly working with local schools’ media studies groups, NCCR also has a need for those with a flair for IT or In the misspent days of my youth I was made privy to technology. The Chipping Campden-based station’s record of the vile cursings of the French Legionnaire when encouraging volunteers who go on to both further ambushed in the steamy jungles and ruined temples of education in media or even directly to major broadcasters is Indo-China – I came by this isoteric knowledge good, with many past alumni moving into the business through the improving pages of ‘The Eagle’; a sterling thanks, in part, to their experience at NCCR. publication of the 1950s – it seems that when driven to ungovernable rage by frustration or pain, your average Younger students gain valuable pointers to producing and Poilu Etranger would cry “Zut Alors” or “Nom du presenting their own shows, with access to state-of-the-art Chein”. In extremis “Sapristi” might burst from his dry broadcasting equipment and a mine of information from the and tortured lips…..but never “Ouch”. more experienced volunteers. No previous experience, just a healthy quota of enthusiasm, is required, although those From the same unimpeachable source I learned that an with past knowledge of radio are also most welcome. Arab would invariably call upon “The beard of his ancestors” or even cry “Bismillah”, but that the term If you are thinking of studying broadcasting or taking it up “Ouch” was ever a stranger to his tongue. as a career, or have worked in radio before and are thinking of making a return to radio after an hiatus, this So whence “Ouch”? could be ideal. Please contact Robb Eden via email at [email protected] Well, having conducted a little research I can now or at the studio on [email protected]. reveal that the word is derived – like it’s less Interested parties are most welcome to visit to station on a respectable brethren – from a germanic root and that a pre-arranged basis. counterpart exists in modern german. This is the expletive “Autsch”…..which freely translated means For further information contact “Ouch”. Robb Eden on [email protected] or Richard price on [email protected] I think that any fair-minded person would therefore concede that, if nothing else, this proves the pointlessness of most research, whilst displaying a pleasing if inane symmetry. Qualified gardener • Specialist Pruning What is more, it throws some light on a little-known facet of our national history; for surely this proves beyond all doubt that when Harold Godwinson was struck in the eye by a Norman arrow at the Battle of Hastings….he almost certainly exclaimed “ouch”. Telephone: 01386 700903 • E-mail: [email protected]
10 Incentives for Renewable Heat and Electricity Written by Julia Bennett and Charlie Mackinnon-Little
The government has developed some financial incentives to help reach our UK targets for CO2 reductions by steering us towards more renewable sources of electricity and heat for the places we live and work.
Before we start, we have make sure our new and existing buildings and appliances are as energy efficient as possible, to get the most out of any further technologies. Energy Performance Certificates give buildings a rating using the same system of labelling as fridges and washing machines, and your property has to be at or above a certain band level to be eligible for each incentive described below. There are several schemes that help cover or reduce the cost of improved energy efficiency, such as insulation. Contact the Energy Savings Trust for advice and further information: 0300 123 1234 (local rates apply).
The new innovative Green Deal financial mechanism, due in Autumn 2012, aims to Beliminat e the need to pay upfront for efficiency measures and instead provides reassurances that the cost of the measures should be covered by savings on the electricity billC . Watch this space. www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/tackling/green_deal/green_deal.aspx
Heat – Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) Heating and hot water are essential for living comfortably in our UK climate, but currently also Charlie Mackinnon-Little is create significant CO emissions. The UK Government expects the RHI to make a significant 2 Director of Blockley-based contribution towards their 2020 ambition of having 12 per cent of heating coming from renewable Cotswold Green Energy Ltd, sources. Please note, if you are on mains gas, you are not likely to be eligible for this scheme, specialists in renewable heat because gas combustion emits lower CO2 and gas boilers have become so efficient, they are hard installations. He works with to beat! Lucky you. co-author Julia Bennett, a specialist in very low energy There are two phases to the introduction of the RHI: and passivhaus building Phase 1 includes a scheme called Renewable Heat Premium Payments (RHPP) to households to design at award-winning contribute to the cost of solar thermal hot water systems, heat pumps and biomass boilers with Tyack Architects Ltd in payments ranging from £300 to £1,250 depending on technology. The RHPP scheme has been Moreton in Marsh. extended into Phase 2 and is open for you to make an application as of 1May2012to31March2013.
Technology RHPP Voucher Value Solar Thermal Hot Water £300 Air to Water Source Heat Pump £850 Ground Source or WaterSourceHeatPump £1250 Biomass boiler £950
Phase 1 also offers incentive payments in the non-domestic sector for every unit of renewable heat generated by eligible installations, similar to the Feed-In Tariffs for electricity below and this is the first scheme of its type for heat in the world. renewable energy systems The unit-based incentive will become the main plank of the RHI and later in Phase 2, will be rolled out to domestic households, though this plumbing and heating has been delayed and is expected to be introduced in the summer of low energy design 2013 following a UK Government consultation in September 2012. Please note, there is no guarantee of RHI tariff levels so if you are considering a renewable heat installation, use caution in your payback Wood Pellet Boilers assumptions. See this section of the Energy Savings Trust website for Log Boilers the latest information: Log Stoves www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/england/Generate-your-own- Domestic & Commercial Plumbing and Heating energy/Financial-incentives/Renewable-Heat-Incentive-RHI Solar Hot Water Electricity – Feed In Tariffs Under Floor Heating For very unit of electricity we use at home or work, the power stations Rain Harvesting have to generate about 2.7 units due to transmission and other losses, Insulation Detailing often using B dirtyC fuel sources such as coal with high2 COemission and pollution rates. Generating our own electricity – micro-generation LowEnergy&PassivhausServicesDesign –canoffermuchcleanerandmoreefficientalternatives.
One B cleanC alternative is to generate solar electricity using photovoltaic (PV) panels, with financial incentives called Feed-In Tariffs Blockley, Nr. Moreton-in-Marsh (FITs) – see this section of the Energy Savings Trust website for the latest information on eligibility and tariffs: T: 01386 701259 / 07979 460925 www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/Generate-your-own-energy/Financial- e: [email protected] incentives/Feed-In-Tariffs-scheme-FITs www.cotswoldgreenenergy.co.uk
11 Cox’s Yard @ Moreton Architectural Reclamation Yard Ltd FLOORBOARDS NEW & RECLAIMED IN OAK OR PINE, DOORS & DOOR HARDWARE, FIREPLACES, PANELLED ROOMS, STAIRCASES, STONE, TIMBER & BEAMS, WINDOWS, RADIATORS… & MUCH MORE!
Antique Reclaimed Oak floorboards now in stock. Pine Joists. Quarry tiles. Moreton Architectural Reclamation Yard Ltd @ Cox's Yard 10 Fosseway Business Park, Moreton-in-Marsh, GL56 9NQ Look online www.coxsarchitectural.co.uk Whatever it is you are looking for, it is worth giving us a call. We have a variety of unusual items in stock. Tel: 01608 652505 Fax: 01608 652881 Email: [email protected]
12 Stow Garden
Plants (and tea room)
Wyck Hill - Stow-on-the-Wold - GL54 1HY [email protected] - 01451 870082
Are you one of those people who loves to buy plants? I know plenty of them. They make a bee line for the plant stall at the fete or fair and walk away with more baby shrubs and flowers in pots than they know what to do with. Well, now there is a new venue for you to sate your desire for new plants. Stow Garden Plants is just outside Stow on Wyck Hill, the A424 going towards Burford. On a long neglected site at the top of the hill, with stunning views across to Bourton on the Water, Francis Gooddy has opened what promises to be an absolute Mecca for plant lovers. There are bedding plants, pot plants, shrubs, bushes, ferns, grasses, trees – in fact, if it has roots and leaves, you'll be able to find it here.
Francis is the son of Rupert Gooddy, a wholesaler and the largest grower of plants in Oxfordshire. So Francis has been around plants for his entire life and has developed a keen knowledge of all things herbaceous. His extensive knowledge and love for the business ensures that all the produce is healthy, lovingly nurtured from seed through to shrub. This outlet will let him grow from scratch a range of plants that will tempt and entice you with unbeatable prices. Besides having a massive range of plants for sale, Francis and his small team of staff can supply you with compost and other growing media, as well as pots, barrels and a range of containers in which to grow your chosen plants. And, of course, they are always on hand to offer advice or tips on where, when and what to plant. So if you have anything more than a passing interest in plants, and will enjoy tea and cakes with a stunning view, pop along today to Stow Garden Plants and see for yourself the huge and impressive range of plants on offer.
Trees - Shrubs - Bedding - Herbaceous - Hedging - Pots & Compost www.stowgardenplants.co.uk
13 14 15 COTSWOLD BOOKSTORE 20 High Street, Moreton-in-Marsh 01608 652666 email: [email protected] NEWS A big thank you to all those who came along to our recent book signings. Both Dick Robinson and Rebecca Tope received warm welcomes. I’m sure the same will apply to our next guest, Diz White, who, as author of ‘Haunted Cotswolds’, was great company on her previous visit. Her new venture, a humorous memoir of her hunt for the perfect Cotswold Cottage, is sure to sell well and gain her even more fans. Pop in to see the press release which is on hand in the shop and don’t miss her signing on Sat 19 May at 10 am. REVIEW Gods of Gotham by Lindsay Faye Hardback at £14.99 This atmospheric novel, set at the origin of what we now call the NYPD, has everything. A touching love affair with a very surprising twist, great characters, an admirable hero who has a nice line in commentary, a dark, body-littered plot and it boasts true originality. With over 10 years experience the Real Wood Kitchen It is a New York, full of drunkenness, corruption, Company knows how to make the perfect kitchen. prostitution, and poor Irish immigrants where Timothy Wilde We work with you to ensure you get your ideal kitchen. is caught up in a terrible fire and scarred for life. He has lost his looks and his savings in the fire and, in doing so, loses all We are friendly, reliable and come highly hope of marrying Mercy Underhill, the Reverend’s daughter. recommended with references. Mercy does her rounds giving charity to the desperate poor, Call us for a free no obligation design and quote. even to the house of child prostitutes run by Silkie Marsh, Tel: 01993 898808 unsurprisingly, amid such corruption, a woman of power. It is Timothy’s hated brother Valentine who drums him Email: [email protected] into the newly forming ‘Police Force’ and he finds his Tim Maule and Dominic Harrison natural place in the world. A place where he can heal and find a use for himself. His qualities are soon required when www.realwoodkitchens.co.uk he finds a young blood-soaked girl escaping from Silkie and a young boy’s body is discovered, suffering horrific wounds. Timothy takes time to piece all the clues together but there are enough of them when a veritable graveyard of little bodies are discovered. Shock after shock is revealed before Timothy cracks the case and fences are mended, others broken in a very surprising way. Timothy is a brilliant creation whose humour and wit are sprinkled about generously and his decidedly bigger brother, though having a very different philosophy, is also memorable. Indeed, there are a dozen characters that stay in the mind, long after the book is put down. However, it is, perhaps, New York which is the brightest star. A very different New York to that of today but, I’m sure, every bit as real, with all its humour and its horrors. A rich debut deserving of great success.
More news and reviews - cotswoldbookstore.blogspot.com and cotswoldbookstoregamesworkshop.blogspot.com
16 The three towns tour Bob Forster
Picture the Cotswolds – silent villages, slightly bent stone cottages, somnolent market towns, clear streams – but Cotswold lanes rarely feature among those pictures. Yet Stow, Moreton and Chipping Norton are laced together by a myriad of deserted lanes. These lanes draw the occasional cyclist to their charms across the seasons, from the warm summer shadowlands to the winter’s snow- fringed verges. They provide the perfect framework for this tour of around 30 miles, incorporating the three towns, a minimum of traffic and a maximum of gentle pleasure. The route is circular so it can start anywhere, but for the purposes of this article, the starting point is Chipping Norton. Leaving the town behind, with its parallel layers of old shopping streets, its proud town hall and its ancient barn of a church, the route heads due north ride with level or gently to Over Norton before a left turn signposted to the downhill lanes leading past Rollrights swoops down into the Swere valley and Sezincote and opening up huge back up to the ridge road. The route goes straight views across the valley below. across into a teeth-rattling descent to Long Compton Ashortstretchalongthe but a short detour to the right along the ridge road A424 takes the rider to the tiny takes the visitor to the brooding Rollright Stones right turn towards Upper Swell, with their extensive views to the south. signposted to the trout farm, a Opposite the village hall in Long Compton, lane that dives down past a almost hidden behind a hedge, lies the intriguing ‘time-lapse’ brewery and into the Millenium Chronolog, a memorial to every age. This feature village. From there the B4077 climbs steadily back to the main contains pictorial etchings that cover 2000 years, everything road and into the fleshpots of Stow-on-the-Wold. from praying monkish hands to the unmistakeable profile of It was here that the writer rested with a pot of tea and a Roger Bannister breasting the tape for the world’s first sub-four toasted sandwich at Stow’s affordable cafe outside the youth minute mile; the words ‘fascinating’ and ‘nostalgic’ go well hostel overlooking the town square. The sun shone and the together! town’s genteel meanderers shuffled past. An occasional From Long Compton a filament of narrow lanes takes the holiday coach disgorged its passengers who set off with rider to the edge of Barton-on-the-Heath, through Great slightly geriatric determination at the start of yet another Wolford, left at the village pond outside Todenham and into Battenburg ‘n’ bladder break; from this placid viewpoint, Moreton, a fine market town that has bounced back from the all was well with the world. devastating floods of 2007. Such indolence can’t last for ever. From the heights of Only a cyclist with a very thick skin or a lack of Stow, the route descends down a long straight slope towards appreciation of his own mortality would ride from here to Broadwell with a wide vista down into the Evenlode valley Stow along the main road. Instead, our route leaves town by fronted, in early summer, by a field densely alight with the minor road close to the park and the railway bridge, rising poppies. The village green in Broadwell, plus the adjoining slowly but relentlessly towards Batsford. At a sharp right ford, makes for an ideal family picnic site. hand bend, the route goes straight ahead, steeply uphill Atwistinglanetakesridersdownto,andbrieflyalong,the around the Batsford estate and back towards the A44 at main road, before turning right through the estate village of Bourton-on-the-Hill. Daylesford, past its redundant church and the consumer It is less than a quarter of a mile to the right turn towards capital of the Cotswolds, also known as Daylesford Farm Shop Longborough and onto one of the most satisfying parts of the with its amazing displays of exotica. As the circuit draws towards its close, it’s on into Kingham, once voted England’s favourite village, across the Evenlode and up into Churchill. Here, All Saints Church crowns the hilltop, visible for miles around with its tower atwo-thirdsreplicaofMagdalen College tower and its nave, complete with hammer beams, modelled on the Great Hall at Christ Church. The road then rises gently back towards Chipping Norton, its elevation giving fine views across the valley and down to the spectacular Bliss Mill alongside the former railway line. So forget the earlier, chocolate box images of the Cotswolds – this tour has shown all that’s best in this special part of the country, not least its deserted lanes and its wide open spaces. 17 HUMPHRIES SHOES
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Humphries Shoes was founded in 1862 and is still run by the Humphries family who live in the area. We offer a superb selection of shoes and sandals from all the leading brands and always strive to offer our products at the most competitive prices.
Fly London HUMPHRIES SHOES 4 Park Street, Stow-on-the-Wold Tel: 01451 832244 Kingfisher Centre, Redditch & 23 High Street, Alcester Also: Josef Seibel, H.B. Shoes, FitFlop, Timberland, Tamaris, Pikolinos, Fly London, Riva, Clarks, Loake, Barker and Anatomic. 18 BLOCKLEY – “a picturesque busy little place congregated, as it were, around a nucleus consisting of a large mill-pound and the Church. The most popular sight in the village, however, is at the Dovedale end, where in the garden of Fish Cottage is a stone inscribed:
IN MEMORY OF THE OLD FISH. UNDER THE SOIL THE OLD FISH DO LIE 20 YEARS HE LIVED AND THEN DID DIE HE WAS SO TAME YOU UNDERSTAND HE WOULD COME AND EAT OUT OF YOUR HAND BLOCKLEY LADIES CHOIR DIED APRIL 20TH 1855 AGED 20 YEARS.”
From War Lock’s Guide to The Cotswolds (Third Edition)
The Choir competed in the Mid Somerset Festival in Bath during March and received three Highly Commended certificates. If you would like to sing then please do join us – our repertoire is varied and there are no auditions. Easter 2012 We meet in Blockley Village Hall on a Tuesday night from 7.30pm – 9.00pm. On a recent visit from Spalding in Lincolnshire to photograph the ford at Blockley I found the villagers racing plastic ducks to raise funds to paint We are available for weddings and concerts the local shop. I thought you might like the attached photographs? For more information contact Jean Ellis on 01386 841253 Thanks, John Walton (eml.14/04)
Blockley Horticultural Society A small and friendly salon in Moreton in Blockley Horticultural Society received many visitors to its annual Spring Show at the end of March, Marsh Town Centre despite the slightly miserable weather. With a record number of entries, locals and visitors alike were treated to a true spectacle for the senses.
Once again, the day demonstrated Blockley’s marvellous capacity to cultivate, and the exuberant enthusiasm that exists within the village; the flowers sections were particularly well supported, and among the cookery entrants, contributions were adjudged to be exceptionally high, with particular attention to Prom Night Package presentation. Nail, file and polish using OPI products Hair Up Sienna X Spray tan All for £55 Call now to book a treatment... Appointments not always necessary! Tel: 01608 652299 Thanks must go to the sports club for replenishing us 17 Old Market Way, Moreton in Marsh, GL56 0AJ all with their delicious afternoon teas. Well done everybody, a truly memorable day! www.hairforyou.co.uk Julie Dove
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20 Care-full co-ordination
As we get older, one of things we want is to pass on our provision of elderly care and social housing. It has been knowledge – even if the young don’t want to hear it. So it must chaotic” he says. “Ae new hospital at Moreton is undersized be increasingly frustrating for our older population to watch and very soon it’s going to be short of capacity.” Cllr Aorpe good services being ‘improved’ while other growing needs are says that although the government is trying to encourage being promoted, without any co-ordination to ensure that joined-up planning decisions, it’s not happening as fast as it they will work alongside each other. needs to, and authorities at every level have to start talking to each other. “We need a broader based plan for the NHS to So it is in the three areas our magazine covers. Aroughout work with local councils to balance the needs of the whole Moreton, Stow and Bourton on the Water, there are big area – we’ve got to work more closely together. Aere is a changes taking place – the increasing need to provide care for trend away from hospitalization and to have care at home or our aging populations and new housing stock to attract young in the community, but there will be a crisis because our families. As each town and parish tries to accommodate both facilities are too small.” these requirements, is there a growing need for planning to be co-ordinated? Where will the new care provision go? David Penman, Stow Ward member of Cotswold District Council, says the new Carole Foster reports: Moreton Hospital is a great improvement on the old site but he too wants a coordinated approach. “Unfortunately I don’t On the outskirts of Moreton in Marsh stands a shiny new feel we can have a full council-funded nursing home for each hospital, long-awaited and well received – but with it come town and that makes it diCcult, especially for those who have many questions. Why does it have fewer beds than the town’s to travel to see their loved ones. I know a lady who visits her old hospital? How will it serve the growing elderly population husband in Bourton every day and she has to get liEs. As in Moreton and the towns and villages around it? Why was it much as I don’t want that, I know it is better to have a well built on a green Deld site, extending the borders of Moreton in thought-out plan with the best possible care in a good Marsh and inviting inDll planning applications in an area of location.” outstanding natural beauty, which will join up the town with the hospital? At the moment the three areas are still acting independently, according to Bryan Sumners. For the past Dve years he has Aese are just some of a series of questions being considered been Chair of the Parish Council in Bourton on the Water by parish, town, district and county councillors. Aey face and has seen the pressure on Bourton to grow, particularly what one of them is calling ‘a crisis’ – how can they balance with housing development. He believes there is a Dght on to the increasing needs of the population of the North preserve the quality of life for all the residents in the area, Cotswolds, both young and old? balanced with a possible over-expansion of what is fundamentally a pretty village. “Bourton, just like the other In a stormy (and vocal) public meeting in Moreton in Marsh, areas, is popular because of what it is – but it could lose that the town was seen to be split between people worried that the attraction if it is forced to expand. At the moment there is no population was becoming predominately elderly and others real co-ordination of resources and it could be useful for who welcomed a plan to build new homes, a nursing home parish councils and others to get a wider view. We need to use and sheltered accommodation adjoining the new hospital, our community facilities wisely, and preserve and improve saying it oBered new jobs and aBordable housing. Others what we have.” feared it would be the start of a strip development that could eventually reach Stow. However, the split in Moreton is Ais area has always attracted people who are retired – it is replicated far more widely than its green belt as other towns beautiful and peaceful. When Robert Dutton was canvassing to struggle to balance the needs of an aging population with the become a district councillor for Moreton he found that there the pressure to build more new homes. town has one outstanding attraction: “Whenever I ask elderly people why they moved to Moreton to retire they all use the f- Aere are many private care facilities dotted through the word, they say it’s Flat!” Simplistic? Perhaps – but catering for North Cotswolds but, as pressure is piled on government our expanding elderly population has not proved easy. Cllr Dnances, the provision of council funded care has reduced. Dutton says; “Aere is a core of people who think the Ae Order of St John has created a new purpose-built care population is becoming too elderly but we need to welcome and home in Bourton on the Water and the Not-For-ProDt charity accommodate them, while at the same time attending to the has promised continuing provision for those in former needs of the younger people, in order to get a balanced council-run homes, now being sold oB. Residents in Bourton, community. Aey both bring income, employment and visitors.” Stow and Moreton are all hoping these older buildings can be retained, either as aBordable homes or to accommodate other Getting the balance right for both the elderly and the young, community amenities. But each community is having to battle respecting the past and our aspirations for the future, is the hard to prevent excessive development – while encouraging job of our elected representatives. So come on, don’t let those new employment. old ones start saying “His leE hand doesn’t know what his right hand’s doing” or even worse, “Aey couldn’t organise a “It’s time” says Cllr David Aorpe of Gloucester County …! Pass us a jammy dodger.” Council, “to have an integrated approach to planning and the Carole Foster © for Stow Times. May 2012
21 Levellers Day 2012 Protesting & Surviving! Saturday 19th May, Burford
Whole day: £12 (conc). After 1pm: £8 (conc) Under 14s free Tickets available online www.wegottickets.com or at the door. www.levellers.org.uk
A One-Stop Shop for training course and competitions in a wide range of rural skills and crafts throughout the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. By working with local instructors, organisations, community groups and landowners we ensure that these courses are informative and practical, and make a noticeable and lasting contribution to the Cotswold landscape. Whether you want to try your hand at blacksmithing, rebuild a 200-year old dry stone wall or have at the ancient art of thatching, one of these courses could be for you! On 17 May 1649, three soldiers were executed on Oliver Cromwell's orders in Burford churchyard. They belonged to a Upcoming Courses movement popularly known as the Levellers, with beliefs in civil rights and religious tolerance. Dry Stone Walling – Beginners 5th May – 6th May at Long Compton During the Civil War, the Levellers fought on Parliament's side, 26th May – 27th May at Naunton they had at first seen Cromwell as a liberator, but now saw 23rd June – 24th June at Tetbury him as a dictator. They were prepared to fight against him for 14th July – 15th July at Cotswold Farm Park their ideals and he was determined to crush them. Over 300 of them were captured by Cromwell's troops and locked up in Blacksmithing – Taster Day Burford church. Three were led out into the churchyard to be 23rd June at Northleach shot as ringleaders.
Contact : 01451 862000 In 1975, members of the WEA Oxford Industrial Branch went [email protected] to Burford to reclaim a piece of history that seemed to be missing from the school books. Cotswold Rural Skills Cotswold Conservation Board, Fosse Way, Northleach, GL54 3JH
R U 16 THIS SUMMER? This summer all 16-year-olds are being offered the opportunity to get involved with the second year of the National Citizens service (NCS).
They will gain valuable life experience and new skills, make friends from all walks of life and prepare themselves for their futures – while playing a part in making their communities better.
NCS takes place over three weeks full time during the summer and then 30 hours spent making the local community a better place. To book a place for this summer and to find out more please go to nationalcitizenservice.direct.gov.uk/ or www.facebook.com/ncs
Register your interest at nationalcitizenservice.direct.gov.uk/get-involved.
22 Broadband: “Are we there yet?”
A Gloucestershire survey highlights the need for faster broadband From RSN Online – www.rsnonline.org.uk Nearly half of households consulted in a Gloucestershire-wide survey have internet download speeds below the Watchdog to probe rural Government’s minimum acceptable level*. Most survey respondents say they are dissatisfied with their internet speed, fuel prices? and most experience sluggish internet service at certain times Thursday 5 April 2012 of day. Nearly half say they regularly lose their connection. Tory MP Sarah Newton believes the Office of Fair Trading The survey involved nearly 6,000 Gloucestershire households should look into the reasons why petrol costs up to 5p/litre more in rural areas. She has launched an online petition calling and was conducted by the Borders Broadband project, a multi- on the government to ensure that the regional fuel market is million pound initiative to secure private investment in a new fair to rural consumers. fast broadband infrastructure for rural Gloucestershire and Herefordshire. Borders Broadband is managed by a partnership "The price of petrol in rural parts of the UK can now be up to of GFirst (Gloucestershire’s Local Enterprise Partnership), five pence more expensive per litre than petrol sold in urban Gloucestershire County Council, Herefordshire Council and areas," it says."Such high prices are having a considerable Government agency, Broadband Delivery UK. The project was impact on the finances of rural households, who are often awarded £14.4m by the Government for Gloucestershire and dependent upon cars to access work, school and public Herefordshire, making this one of the first parts of the UK to services." share £530m cash for rural high-speed broadband. This has been boosted with a further £7.5m investment by GCC and Available online : eptitions.direct.gov.uk/ petitions/32452 £6m from Herefordshire Council. If it attracts more than 100,000 signatures, it will be eligible for Major private sector investment is vital to the project’s success. debate in the House of Commons. Public funding is being used to attract a commercial telecoms supplier and persuade them there is significant demand for e-petition high-speed broadband in the county’s rural areas. Companies Online at : eptitions.direct.gov.uk/ petitions/32452 have been involved in a complex tendering process to provide the new infrastructure, and a contract is expected to be Our request to the Government is to: awarded this summer. Refer rural fuel prices to the Office of Fair Trading Responsible department: Her Majesty's Treasury Findings highlight dissatisfaction with existing internet speeds and high demand for fast broadband. The survey found that: “The price of petrol in rural parts of the UK can now be up to • Nearly half of households surveyed reported having five pence more expensive per litre than petrol sold in urban download speeds lower than 2Mbps (Megabits per second) – areas. *the minimum broadband speed the Government says should be available to every UK home or business. Such high prices are having a considerable impact on the finances of rural households, who are often dependent upon • More than half of households spend over 20 hours a week cars to access work, school and public services. (collectively as a household) on the internet. • Six out of ten households use the internet to work from The Government needs to ask the Office of Fair Trading to home, either for an employer or to run a business or both, look into this disparity between rural and urban fuel prices, to while a third use it for school, college or university studies. ensure that the regional fuel market is fair to rural consumers.” A separate survey of businesses in Herefordshire and Gloucestershire found that nearly half have download speeds well below 2 Mbps. One in six firms have speeds of less than 0.5 Mbps. Six out of ten businesses are either very dissatisfied, or dissatisfied with their current internet service.
David Owen, Chief Executive at GFirst, said: “These figures just aren’t acceptable in a world where high-speed internet is vital for businesses to grow. Many firms are reliant on broadband to not only communicate internally and externally but also to sell their products to overseas markets. We must ensure Gloucestershire has high-speed broadband to help our businesses compete on a global scale.”
For further information on Borders Broadband, visit www.gfirstbroadband.co.uk
23 24 GRCC Vibrant Village of the Year 2012 The competition is open! This is an opportunity for communities to showcase their village. We want to find villages, irrespective of their size, that make the most of local opportunities to sustain or enhance the quality of life of all their residents. The competition is open to all villages with a parish council or parish meeting and is designed to recognise and celebrate the hard work being carried out in Gloucestershire.
This year’s competition is sponsored by GRCC, Cotswold District Council, Stroud District Council and includes a new category Most Hospitable and Inclusive Community, kindly sponsored by Barnwood Trust. The other categories are Best community project / initiative; Healthy and active community and Most resilient community.
The competition has cash prizes totalling £3,000 which will be awarded to the winners and runners up the Awards Ceremony at Colesbourne Park, Nr Cheltenham on the evening of Thursday 12th July . Additional awards may also be presented at the judges’ discretion. All villages participating will automatically be entered into the prize draw, kindly sponsored by B & Q Gloucester, to win a £50 gift voucher. All entries will be invited to the ceremony.
Download an electronic copy of the form or call GRCC on 01452 528491. All entries must be submitted to Naomi McMahon by email at [email protected] or in hard copy to GRCC at Community House, 15 College Green, Gloucester, GL1 2LZ by Monday 28th May 2012 at 5pm.
More information including Local Case Studies available online at www.grcc.org.uk Overall Runner Up - Mickleton □ Most Resilient Community - WINNER - Bourton-on-the-Hill □ Best Community Project - Runner Up - Naunton
25 26 27 NOTES FROM STOW TOWN COUNCIL MEETING Next Council Meeting: MEETING 12th April 2012 Thursday 10th May 7pm, in Stow Youth Club. NOTES OF ALL COUNCIL & COMMITTEE MEETINGS ARE * ALL COUNCIL MEETINGS ARE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC WHO CAN ASK AVAILABLE IN THE COUNCIL OFFICES, GEORGE ALLEY (OFF QUESTIONS AND RAISE ISSUES. THE SQUARE), STOW ON THE WOLD Committee Meetings in April : 9am at Stow Youth Club Report from Ward Councillor Planning 2nd, 16th & 30th Cllr Merryl Phillips said that the report in last month’s Stow Times by Burial Board 9th The Square Group 23rd. Cllr David Penman covered all she wished to say. She did however raise two points that she felt needed addressing from the article. Report from Burial Board She felt that the allegation that the Ward Councillors were not The Council have been given the go-ahead to remove four trees taking notice of the people of Stow was untrue and that she was from the Churchyard. The collapsed grave in the Cemetery has frequently around the town making visits and could be contacted by been filled and refurbished and the memorial stones lain down phone, e-mail or letter. Also the statement that decisions are made on the burial site. JK pointed out that a gouge is being formed in behind closed doors was incorrect. the Churchyard wall where bins are being dragged against it when being emptied. He is in the process of getting the matter resolved. Report from County Councillor County Councillor Barry Dare said that members of the public are Report from Traffic and Parking welcome to attend decision making meetings (at GCC). Once again JK has arranged a meeting with Bob Skillern of Highways to Council Tax has been frozen whilst maintaining frontline Adult and discuss traffic flow and parking in the Square. It is hoped that the parking manager will be able to attend. The preparations for Children’s services. Whilst not comfortable about the decision on winter have been discussed and the Committee has purchased a the Ashton House site he accepted that County has to make container for the storage of extra salt given to the Council by economies. RJ asked if anyone from the floor would like to make Highways who now fill the grit bins once a year. comments. It was felt that the sale of Ashton House would be bad for the residents of Stow. It will mean that the current residents will Report from Diamond Jubilee Plans are going ahead for the celebrations on the Cricket Field have to be moved to facilities in Bourton and possibly further afield, for the Monday and Tuesday of the Jubilee weekend. It was making visiting difficult for relatives and visitors that have to rely on agreed that the Saturday and Sunday should be left for the public transport. Removing Ashton House could have long term Traders to organise; they are in the process of planning a party implications for Stow residents - with an aging population, due to for the children. the lack of affordable housing, the loss of the care home will be a Reports on Councillor’s visits blow. When asked if provisions were being made for the future BD RJ and MM have had a tour of the new North Cotswold Hospital, replied that there were no particular intentions for provision. RJ which was informative. Both felt that the position of the bus commented that freezing rates does not help the future of services. stops serving the hospital could prove hazardous. Members of the public asked for an open meeting to be called to which representatives from various bodies could be invited. RJ --O-- stated that the Council would try to organise one as soon as Councillor Alun White has requested that anyone able to help possible, however the site has already gone out to tender and it may deliver and collect the new housing needs survey give their well be too late to have any bearing on the matter. (see Post Script names and contact details to the Town Clerk on 01451 832585 or below) e-mail [email protected]. Any help offered will be gratefully received. Report from Stow Youth Club: POST SCRIPT: AW reminded members that there will be a District wide meeting on RJ reported on the 17th April - “following the STC meeting and youth affairs on 1st May in the Youth Centre which is open to the the request for me to contact the relevant officials at GCC for a public. Thanks to monies received from David Penman in the CDC public meeting regarding Ashton House - I have made some youth funding project some of the younger members of the club progress. were able to go ten pin bowling. He also announced that on the 16th April the Youth Club will be purchasing the freehold of the Club The outcome of several phone calls resulted in the advice that permission must be sought in writing to the Leader of GCC. I Report for the Community Plan Committee have now written this letter requesting the attendance of the AW is in the process of contacting CDC requesting help to bring the Head of Asset Management and Property Services; the Director Community Plan forward. The working group will reform to help of Health and Social Care; and the Director of Finance. with the work involved. A new housing needs survey is scheduled for distribution - it will be hand delivered and collected by Suggested dates when St E Hall is available are May 4th or 11th. volunteers. AW invited any members of the public to come forward at the end of the meeting and give their names to the clerk if they I am told the doctors will attend and our MP has expressed a were willing to help. wish to do so if available.” Report from Parks Committee: CS is carrying forward the plans for work on the upper Well. KC & AW toured the Cricket Field and King George’s Field with a view to Promoting planting a small wood at the bottom of the Field. Plans to refurbish Stow and its the Stocks on the green are in hand, listed building consent is businesses. needed before any work can begin. 45,000 visits last year; Is your business listed?
28 Fosseridge Ward seeking a new ward councillor –
Nomination date: 3rd May for a By-election, if required, on 31st May.
Blitz on planning breaches in the Mrs Michele Jeffery has resigned from her position as Cotswolds Cotswold District Council Ward Member for Fosseridge. Having completed her barrister training for the Bar of In a move to crack down on breaches of planning rules and England and Wales, Mrs Jeffery has unexpectedly been conditions applied to planning consent, Cotswold District offered the necessary work experience (formally known councillors have been encouraged to report illegal or as a ‘pupillage’) at Nottingham, which means that she unauthorised planning developments. will be leaving the area in the near future.
CDC head of planning Philippa Lowe said officers relied on the Commenting on her resignation, Council Leader Lynden local knowledge of ward members. "We deal with about 2,000 Stowe said: “I would like to thank Michele for all her planning applications a year, many with conditions attached to hard work since joining the Council. She was elected to them. That is why we rely on ward members to bring it to our represent Fosseridge in May 2011 and, given her obvious attention if there has been a breach." She added that and outstanding intellect, very quickly got to grips with councillors are not required to investigate further, as council council workload across her very rural ward. I am sorry officers are authorised to take appropriate action if a breach to see her go but this is a great career opportunity for had been made. her and I wish her the best of luck in the future.”
April Fools – or is there a more worrying A formal Notice of Vacancy has been published on the CDC website (see www.cotswold.gov.uk ) and the message for Cotswold towns and villages? Returning Officer has already received a request to start the election procedure to fill the vacancy. Subject to Leading Cotswold District councillors looked like April Fools more than one valid nomination being submitted by the after a series of improvements to car parking services that deadline of noon on 3rd May 2012, a by-election will be were set to go live on April 1st, failed to launch. held on Thursday 31st May 2012. The new arrangements had been promised by CDC as ‘a For more information about the election process, or to sweetener’ last October when it introduced unpopular request a nomination pack, please contact the Council’s evening and Sunday charges in Cirencester. The improvements, Elections Team, either by telephone on 01285 623229 or most of which were to be piloted in Brewery Car Park, would by e-mail to [email protected] 'provide greater customer choice of payment, greener options and better efficiency'. They included solar-powered machines to process card Gloucestershire Rural Communities Council payments and options for motorists to buy monthly permits. Machines across the Cotswolds would be modified to allow Changes to legislation affecting payment by mobile phone. Community Buildings
But parking expert Gerald Wilkinson, who has worked with 150 local authorities, said there was no need to pilot facilities There are a number of changes regarding new legislation that been running successfully nationwide for years. "Plenty of which will affect community buildings. These will apply towns are already taking advantage of these new facilities, so to the current licensing laws and public entertainment. what is there to pilot? I was working on some of these improvements 15 years ago. The council promised taxpayers NEW - The Live Music Act 2012 will give community buildings the opportunity to host live music events these facilities to quieten the complaints about the new without the need for a Premises License or Temporary charges, and once again they can't deliver." Event Notice providing that the capacity does not exceed 200 people. CDC spokesman Bob McNally said the improvements had been delayed at least a month. "The machines have been ordered, NEW – Changes to VAT. The HMRC has also abolished site surveys have been completed and the council is now the current reduced VAT rate of 5% on energy saving waiting for the card service provider to set up banking links. building products used to update/ refurbish charitable The pay and display machines are being piloted in Brewery buildings. Halls will now have to pay the full 20% rate on initially, so the council can review the usage of card payments energy saving building materials once the charge is and make decisions whether this would justify the introduced in the Finance Bill due to come into force considerable extra cost of installing more." soon. (Barbara Pond)
29 ADLESTROP VILLAGE HALL LITTLE VILLAGE HALL ST GEORGES HALL, BLOCKLEY •Spacious,light,warmandcolourfulandavailableto hire for your special functions, classes or any event – Bell Bank, Blockley Fully Licensed Village Hall in good decorative order. Seating capacity 160. Large well equipped only £6 an hour Quiet rural venue with modern facilities for exhibitions, servery/kitchen. Toilets. •Discountedfeesforlongtermbookings. meetings, classes, parties, weddings, etc. Gas central heating. Off street parking for 40 cars. • Just redecorated • small stage, kitchen facilities, 35-50 people. Reasonable charges, ample parking. disabled toilet and disabled access. Suitable for wedding receptions etc. • Excellent parking. WITH WIRELESS BROADBAND incl BT OPENZONE. Raised stage. Excellent sound system. (No discos) Please phone 01608 658710 for bookings and further info 01386 700880 / email [email protected] Enquiries: Brian Clayton – 01386 701528
BOURTON ON THE WATER BLOCKLEY COMMUNITY Victoria Hall, HERITAGE CENTRE THE ROYAL BRITISH Bourton on the Water Recently refurbished, the Jubilee Hall seats 80. LEGION BRANCH HALL Available to hire - very competitive rates. Light, bright and warm, drop down screen, parking. Local functions, childens parties etc welcome Available for hire; 150 seated / 250 standing. Disabled access & facilities Suitable for all sorts of events. Very good rates. Ample off-road parking. Office Tel: 01451 824303 Call Richard Mooney 01451 820679 Enquiries to Laurie Clayton, 01386 701528 for bookings and information
BROADWELL VILLAGE HALL The perfect setting for that special occasion EVENLODE VILLAGE HALL adjacent to Green in quiet village Lovely rural location with spacious parking. CONDICOTE VILLAGE HALL Seats 90, Large main hall, & 2 meeting rooms. Brian Clayton – 01386 701528 Ideal for classes, clubs, parties, receptions, Stage with electric drop down screen. Recently built in Cotswold stone. Large car park, presentations & family events. Built in sound system with microphone and hearing loop. well equipped kitchen, on the outskirts of the village. Newly decorated; light and spacious. Modern kitchen Kitchen. Toilets. Disabled facilities. Tel: 07587 097795 [email protected] and loos. Disabled access. New pull-down projector screen. Tables, chairs, china and cutlery available. Bookings - Frances Dodwell on 01451 830994 Come & see what we have to offer! Please call Philip Pratt, 01608 652499/ 07051 867493.
Great Rollright Village Hall KINGHAM VILLAGE HALL LITTLE WOLFORD VILLAGE HALL
Main hall, small meeting room, verandah, views, Beautiful hall; capacity 100. Rural position 5 miles from Moreton and Shipston, kitchen facilities, disabled access & toilets, parking. Off-street parking; disabled access. accommodates 60 – 80, good parking, Suitable for meetings, parties, exhibitions. Available to hire at very competitive rates. fully equipped kitchen, china etc., disabled facilities, projection screen, hearing loop, More information: Booking Sec. 01608 730268 Contact Jacki Jones, stage available, reasonable charges The Barn, Orchard Way, Kingham. OX7 6YT Tel: 01608 658089 Details and booking 01608 684704
LONGBOROUGH & SEZINCOTE LOWER SWELL VILLAGE HALL MORETON IN MARSH, REDESDALE HALL VILLAGE HALL Two venues with a stair lift. Traditional Cotswold VH on picturesque village green. The Lower Hall accommodates 80; We are fully equipped with a few unexpected bonusses Recently refurbished – fully equipped kitchen, heating, modern kitchen facilities. • an extendable stage with pull-down screen tables & chairs. Disabled facilities. Seats up to 70. Beamed Upper Hall accommodates 120. • 3/4 sized snooker table • table tennis table • piano Competitive rates (inc.heating) vary with use. Reasonable charges. Nearby parking. • Hi-Fi system • all equipment for short mat bowls. Perfect for parties and receptions, Shows, displays, Historic town centre building For further details T: 01451 830218 or evening classes, etc Clerk 01608 654064 email: [email protected] Tel: 01451 831916 Eml: [email protected]
ODDINGTON VILLAGE HALL SALFORD VILLAGE HALL Stow Baptist Church Hall, Newly refurbished - full c/h, new kitchen and toilets. Stow GL54 1AA Spacious main hall with seating for 100, Attractive and flexible venue in Cotswold village. In the community for the community also a smaller meeting room. Recently refurbished. Spacious hall, recently refurbished, fully-equipped new Stage, pull down projector screen and hearing loop, Seats 80. Disabled access. Parking. kitchen facilities & disabled toilets. Facilities for the less able. Spacious parking. Toilets. Modern well equipped kitchen. Usage Policy: we support community-focused groups. Children have access to the adjacent playground. www.salfordvillagehall.co.uk Tel: 01608 642853 We do not lease the hall for commercial events Telephone 01451 830817 or 01451 831917 01451 870437 [email protected]
Stow on the Wold ST EDWARDS HALL, STOW ON THE WOLD STOW YOUTH CLUB ROYAL BRITISH LEGION CLUB Panelled 1st floor room with Civil War portraits & Two large rooms (accommodating 50-60 people) Clubroom and bar with entertainment system for discos, memorabilia. Holds 100. • Internet café with 12 computer terminals • Projector & screen karaoke, etc. Small lounge bar. Hearing loop. Lift and staircase from lobby. • Pool table • Table football • Nintendo Wii • Modern kitchen • Disabled access & toilets • Rates negotiable for regular users. Kitchen, toilets, anti-room. CCTV. Large and small meeting rooms with conference facilities The Club is next to the Police Station on the Fosseway and for up to 150 (seats 60/12 dining); Competitive rates. 2 Hrs Free C/P(day) accessed easily from The Square. Catering. Parking. Minibus. 2012 dates available. 01386 761514 D Neill: [email protected] Tel: 01451 830656. Enquiries to Colin and Alison 01451 830242 [email protected] S-J Rich: [email protected] Tel: 01451 830654.
WYCK RISSINGTON TODENHAM VILLAGE HALL ADVERTISING YOUR VILLAGE HALL VILLAGE HALL in quiet location This list has been updated to include more entries. Each entry contains the key information about the Large Hall seats 60. Small anti-room. Recently refurbished facilities available, contact details etc.. in an A-Z list New modern well equipped kitchen A perfect venue for Family Occasions (that circulates each month) Disabled entrance and facilities Seats 40/20 for Dinner. Disabled access & loos Entries are free. Car parking at rear. Very attractive rates. Fully equipped kitchen
Contact Karen 01608 651301 Enquiries - Call Judith Wheeler 01451 821094 Editor
30 31 Rural Cinema – May
The Playhouse, St GeorgeB s Hall Victoria Hall Upper Town Hall Village Hall BLOCKLEY BOURTON ON THE WATER CHIPPING CAMPDEN CHURCHILL Thursday 24 May Monday 21 May Friday 25 May Saturday 12 May THE IRON LADY THE IRON LADY See local notices THE IDES OF MARCH 2012 Season Tickets available - £25 Film 2.30pm & 7.30pm Tickets £3 Film 7.30pm Film 7.30pm, Tickets £4.50 Doors/Bar open at 7:00pm - 7:45pm film refreshments. Advance tickets/queries 01386 841206 Advance tickets/queries 01608 659903 Advance tickets £3.50/ on the door £4 Family Tickets £10 (2 adults, 2 children) from Ch C. Information Centre/on door. E: [email protected] Advance tickets/queries 01386 700647/593386 Tickets/queries 01451 822365
Screen On The Green, Village Hall, Village Hall, Village Hall Village Hall ILMINGTON LITTLE COMPTON LITTLE WOLFORD LOWER ODDINGTON Friday 27th April Films Shown Throughout The Thursday 17 May Tuesday 15 May THE HELP Month. THE IRON LADY THE IRON LADY Film 7.30pm | TICKETS £3.50 Film 7.30pm Tickets £4.00 7.30pm Tickets (see below) Film 2pm & 7.30pm Tickets £5.00 inc. tea/coffee Advance tickets from Village Store & Red Lion Advance tickets/queries Advance tickets/queries 01451 830817 Advance tickets/queries 01608 674298 Licenced bar. Refreshments and raffle 01608 684223 or 01608 674200 Refreshments served in the interval E: [email protected]
Films
REGULAR EVENTS The Iron Lady (12) 112 mins First MON FOLK NIGHT,EbrigtonArms9pm.www.theebringtonarms.co.uk Meryl Streep stars in this portrait of Margaret Thatcher (for which Streep received Best Actress awards at both BAFTA & Oscar awards 2012), our first and only female Prime Minister and one MON DANCE FUSION Adult dance class. Mixed styles. No experience necessary. Exercise ofthe20thcentury'smostfamousandinfluentialwomen. in a fun way. No pre-booking necessary. Chipping Campden Town Hall 9.30-10.30. The Ides of March (15) 96 mins £4.50 Politicians lie, which comes as no surprise in this gripping thriller directed and co-written by MON SCOTTISHCOUNTRYDANCINGStEdwardsChurchRooms,Stow.5.30-7pm George Clooney, co-starring Ryan Gosling. The acting is heavyweight, as are the moral questions about the personal cost of serving the greater good that propel the story with an Children and 7-9pm Adults 01451 831876 unstoppable force. MON CHILDRENS DANCE CLASS Chipping Campden Town Hall.6-8 yrs 4-5pm, 9-11 yrs 5-6pm. Single class £7pp, Monthly membership £22pp. 07527 757057 MON YOGA Chipping CampdenTown Hall. 2pm Starts again 21st Sept 01386438537 FRI ACTIVE & ABLE CLASSES Posture & Stability –Tai Chi Chi Kong at Bourton, MON ‘Old Sweats NAAFI break’ at Royal British Legion, Bourton on the Water (10am Moreton and Stow. 01285 623450 -12) for anyone to come along for a cup of tea and a chat, FRI MOORE COTTAGE LUNCH CLUB Bourton Hospital from 10am -2 pm. Jenny MON Burford Orchestra Rehearsals 7.30-9.30pm at Witney Community Primary Stanfield 824338 or Jill Robbins 810325 School OX28 1HL. [email protected]. 07984 492 976. New members welcome; no audition. MON Powerfreestyle Kickboxing at Guiting power Village hall. Juniors 7-7.50pm. SMALL ADS £0.80 per word. Min 12 words, max 30 words. Adults 7.50-8.30pm. freestyle Kickboxing or adult Boxersize. Call Adam Payment with booking. Copy by 15th month. 07774285459 Tel: 07789 175 002. MON BRIDGE CLUB @ NORTHLEACH 7.30pm. Partners not necessary. Non members welcome, 01285 750288 Tim Morris INTRODUCTORY OFFER Last Mon WHIST DRIVES at Burmington Village Hall. 7.30pm. In aid of the village hall 50pperworduntil15/05/12 TUES POTTERYCLASSESLower Swell Village Hall, 9:30am to 12:00 noon 10 week term £90 plus £15 materials/firing cost. Beginners welcome In Bourton Times, Chipping Norton Times, Moreton Times and Stow Times Contact [email protected] 01451 870734 (delivering almost 12,000 copies a month). First WED Free MARTIAL ARTS LESSONS.Separateadult&children’sclasses.Chipping Norton Leisure Centre. 07977 560086 www.martialartsvoucher.co.uk, LOST: GENTS COAT. Mid-length county-style, tweed, green lining. Call Chris WEDS WEDS WALK Easy/moderate walks. Start at 10am. 01451 860366 07798 602 113. WEDS CHIPPING CAMPDEN BRIDGE CLUB 7.15 for 7.30pm Duplicate Bridge. Upper Town Hall.Non members welcome.Partners not necessary,01608 664456 FOR SALE. Ladies British Eagle town/trail bicycle. In very good order.£48.00 FirstTHURS Free MARTIAL ARTS LESSONS.Separateadult&children’sclassesStow-on-the- O.V.N.O. 01608 650730 Wold Primary School. 07977 560086 www.martialartsvoucher.co.uk, SELL IT, BUY IT, FirstTHURS Free Self Defence / Jeet Kune Do Lessons for Men and Women (Adults only) Stow-on-the-Wold Primary School 07977 560086 www.selfdefencevoucher.co.uk RENT IT, HIRE IT THURS QUIZ NIGHT at The Volunteer Inn, Ch.Campden 8.30pm 01386 840688 FRI BELLYDANCINGNew beginners class. 11-12.30 The Church Room, Chipping Beds, Books, Bags and BBQs Campden. Informal & relaxed classes for ladies of all ages, shapes & sizes. 01608 Pets, Pots, Parasols 663480 Dolls, Diaries, DVDs FRI until July. Spinning Fitness Class (reservation required) exercise classes. Suitable for all abilities. Fun exercise, great music! 6.30 -7.30pm. Unit 6 Draycott Business Village Draycott Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 9JY Call 01386 701231 www.rapid-fx.com FRI DANCE FUSION Adult dance class, mixed styles. No experience necessary. At 50p per word &MON All Welcome. Ch.Campden Town Hall, 9.30-10.30 £4.50 (conc £2.50) FRI ACTIVE & ABLE Fitness & Falls classes for older people at Stow to Church Rooms, It’s a deal! Stow 01285 623450 FRI LINE DANCING Willersey Village Hall, near Broadway 01386 438537 07789 175 002
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34 35 GLOUCESTERSHIRE WARWICKSHIRE RAILWAY
Spring Ale & Steam Weekend Saturday 19 & Sunday 20 May Travel by steam train from Cheltenham Race Course Station to WinchcombeStationandsamplesomeofthefinerealalesonoffer. A Day Out with Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 May Book tickets on line or phone the railway Admin Office.
For full details and a timetable see the GWSR website: www.gwsr.com Weddings & Celebrations at the Railway More details from Jane Riddell of Planned for Perfection on 01452 302797.
The Railway Station Toddington, Gloucestershire GL54 5DT 01242 621405
An evening of Jazz Inheavenlynewsurroundingsat The Holy Ascension Church Oddington
Saturday 12 May OrganMusic7.00pm–7.30pm C DIC E JA IGH Jazz 7.30pm–10.00pm (with interval) "# # Tickets £10 (incl. glass of wine and canapés), 01451 831917 Official re-opening of the church on Sunday 13 May with the EE ' DIA D JBI EE Bishop of Gloucester leading a service at 4.00pm – all are welcome. .00$!.00$! There will be a '(%)'(%) 2" (" Bonhams Valuation Day B" ! & $ % Thursday 10 May, 10 am – 4pm at Ilmington Village Hall $# " IE IC Learn more about your treasured possessions BB and help raise money for the Village Hall funds
Admission is free with a suggested £3 donation per item valued Drinks and refreshments available – all day
Oxfordshire Artweeks 5–13 May 30 Years and 30 Sculptors Ho Ho FingersFingers Kingham Lodge, Kingham, OX7 6YL '(% " Celebrating thirty years of Artweeks, thirty sculptors are exhibiting a variety of work in bronze, stone, coiled wire, steel and resin. #!& *$'&+ " !
www.sculptureatkinghamlodge.com & ! ) !$ In aid of local, national and international charities , . 0 ( %" %) Refreshments will be available 014 1 3124
36 37 38 39 40 SUNDAY 6th May - COTSWOLD WALK (22nd year) LOCAL WALKS WITH Rotary Club of Shipston on Stour www.shipstonrotary.org.uk THE COTSWOLDS VOLUNTARY 7 mile walk with spectacular views over four counties WARDENS – APRIL Do you like to walk? We invite you, your members, family and friends to join us for our 22nd annual walk on Sunday 6th May. A Wool Town and a Village – Wed 2 May 2- Moderate Walk along the Leach Valley visiting two ‘wool’ churches - one The circular walk is approximately 7 miles long, along town centre and one village. Field paths with delightful views and footpaths and bridleways through very attractive North one moderate climb. 2 hours; 4 miles. Start: 10am.The Old Prison, Cotswolds countryside, and will take approx 2½ hrs. Northleach.OS Map ref SP 109 150
The free car park and start is at Foxcote Hill, near the lovely Poets and Estates – Sunday 6 May – Moderate village of Ilmington, CV36 4LD. From Chastleton to Adlestrop (Jane Austen connections) and South of Stratford upon Avon near Shipston on Stour. return via the Daylesford Estate and Cornwell House. Please bring a packed lunch. 4 hours; 7 miles. Start: 10.00 am Chastleton Further information and charity sponsorship forms can be House Car Park. OS Map ref SP 249 290 downloaded from www.cotswoldwalk.org.uk Diamond Way Sampler with a Pitstop (1) – Tuesday 8 May– Moderate. The northern section of the Diamond Way and two frontier villages, Hidcote and Mickleton. Return over the Cotswold Edge via Dover’s Hill, site of the Cotswold Olympicks on June 1. Pub lunch/ bring a packed lunch. 6 hours; 10 miles. Start: 09.30 am Chipping Campden Market Square. OS Map ref SP 151 391
Chastleton House – Thursday 10 May – Easy A National Trust property tucked into a quiet rural corner, have changed little over the past three centuries. Please bring a packed lunch. 2.5 hours; 5 miles. Start: 10.00 am Chastleton House Car Park. OS Map ref SP 249 290
Regal Celebrations in Rhyme (1) – Saturday 12 May Strenuous.Involving two ascents and descents of Bredon Hill with some superb views. Pub lunch available in Elmley Castle. 7 hours; 11 miles. Start: 10.00 am outside Bredon village hall. OS Map ref SO 929 369
The Wardens and Windrush Ways (1) – Tuesday 22 May – Moderate . One of 4 circular walks covering the whole of the 5th. May Wardens and Windrush Ways. Following the Windrush Way from From Moreton to Bourton. 6 mile walk following the Monarch's Winchcombe to Roel Hill, returning via the Wardens Way. Please Way & the Heart of England Way from Morton-In-Marsh to Bourton bring a packed lunch. 4.5 hours; 8 miles. Start: 10.00 am On The Hill, return via Sezincote House. Please bring a drink & snack. Winchcombe Back Lane car park (pay & display). OS Map ref SP Meet outside Moreton In Marsh Town Hall. £5 pp, no booking 023 284 required. 14.00. www.cotswoldcountrywalks.com The Slaughters – Sunday 27 May – Easy Explore Upper Slaughter, then climb to Copse Hill for great views 29t. May of the village, the Dikler Valley and Stow. Return via Lower Open Afternoon at Brassey Reserve A rare opportunity to see this Slaughter and River Eye.2 hours; 3 miles. Start: 2.00 pm Upper unusual site - wild flowers, butterflies and the peace and quiet of Slaughter Church. OS Map ref SP 155 233 this hidden gem. Wear stout footwear. Brassey nature reserve, near Bourton-on-the-Water, GL54 3AG The Windrush Way for Lunch – Wednesday 30 May – Moderate. From Guiting Power across to the Windrush Way and the Naunton, where a pub lunch is available at the Black Horse. The reserve will be sign posted off the A429 at Bourton on the Return along the Wardens Way. 4.5 hours; 7 miles. Start: 10.00 Water and the B4068 Stow to Naunton Road. am Guiting Power Village Hall Car Park (Trust the Motorist). OS Donations welcome. 14.00 - 16.00. Map ref SP 094 245
PLEASE use appropriate footwear as some walks may be steep and muddy in places. MODERATE - includes some hills and rough NORTH COTSWOLD ground. Sorry, no dogs allowed except guide and hearing dogs. RAMBLERS GROUP Walks are free although donations help to fund our conservation information on any walk or a copy of work and improvement projects. the Group’s current walks programme can be obtained from the Secretary : Tel. 01386 700847, The Wardens run a full programme of guided walks throughout email at [email protected] or online under “Local the Cotswolds. For more information (including any changes to Groups” at www.gloucestershirearearamblers.org.uk arrangements such as due to extreme weather) see www.escapetothecotswolds.org.uk or Tel: 01451 862000.
41 Correspondence PLEASE NOTE that all letters and emails sent to the Town Council are in the public domain and are open for the public and press to view. They are reproduced here when, in the Editor’s opinion, the subject matter is of interest to readers. ASHTON HOUSE - CARING IN THE COMMUNITY
Recent events have brought community care, where and how it is provided, very much to the fore. Many people still feel that our North Cotswolds communities were more than a little ‘over-looked’ by the authorities in relation to the new North Cotswold Hospital. Now there are developers ‘all over’ our community care homes and, once again, there is a feeling that the community is being disregarded by County and District councils and councillors – everything is swept away by two greater considerations, budget decisions and party loyalties. How disappointing*.
We include letters exchanged by Stow Tow Council (who care very much but have no authority) and the County Council, District Council and Mr Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, M.P. Stow Town Council will be announcing the date for a public meeting early in May, and it is hoped that representatives of GCC, Glos NHS, CDC and our M.P will attend.
(Copy of a draft) Letter from Stow Town Council to new care home or one of the other Town Plan priorities. various recipients, listed below (15/03) Again it would make sense for the Town Council to be made aware of any plans before they are too far advanced “Stow Town Council is very aware of significant unease in as it may be able to support and facilitate the proposals. the town regarding the re-housing of the residents of To summarise our concerns regarding this important site:- Ashton House to the new, Jubilee House, in Bourton and • Stow residents needing long-term nursing care should the resultant affect that the town will be left with no local be cared for in their own town. facility for residents needing nursing care. Whilst we • The Doctors need more suitable premises in a appreciate that Bourton on the Water is not a great convenient location with adequate parking in line with distance away for those able to drive, it will inevitably the Town Plan preclude older relatives and friends of the residents, • The Town Council is being urged to take action but does without their own transport, being able to visit on a not want to impede any proposals by the PCT/doctors’ frequent basis. practice. • The severe lack of available land within the town on The site on which Ashton House stands is owned by which to provide community buildings. Gloucestershire County Council who are intending to • The town does not need any more “over 55” housing market it in the very near future. The building was erected developments having had several such facilities built in in the 1970s and could possibly be of interest to another the last few years, and another has been proposed care home operator without the need for demolition. As recently. the location is fairly central to the facilities in Stow it is Yours sincerely obviously attractive to housing developers. However, we Robin Jones would wish to highlight the very real lack of suitable land within the town on which we can hope to build Chairman of Stow on the Wold Town Council community assets included in our Town Plan. Cc County Councillor Barry Dare It is our understanding that Well Lane Surgery, our local doctors’ practice, is interested in re-locating to the Ashton Leader of Gloucestershire County Council, House site, enabling them to extend their services and be Mark Hawthorne housed in more spacious accommodation than they are at present. This is obviously a business decision for the District Councillor David Penman doctors, but Stow Town Council may wish to support any proposals which the practice intend to produce as an District Councillor Merryl Phillips enhanced doctors practice is a priority within our Town Plan. The Council has been asked by a number of local Leader of Cotswold District Council, people to hold a public meeting on the future of Ashton Lynden Stowe House. In doing so, it would not wish to cut across any plans which either the PCT or the practice may have. It Geoffrey Clifton Brown MP would be very helpful if the Council were able to have at least an outline of what is proposed, if anything.
The re-siting of the practice would free up the land in Well Lane, which might provide an opportunity to build a
42 Response from Gloucestershire County Council “Is it all for charity?” Mark Hawthorne Leader of the Council By eml (10/04)- responses via the Editor please) (27/03) Dear Cllr. Jones “With 4 charity shops already in the town plus a Salvation Army Clothes Bank in the Maugersbury Road Car Park you would think that enough is enough, yet, in the last 4 weeks I have had …I’m sorry that you and your council are not happy with 3 collection bags put in my letter box for Lifeboats, ageuk and the county’s decision to sell Ashton House on the open Midlands Air Ambulance. I have had others but have just market. I hope I can put that decision in context. thrown them away but they are coming in increasing numbers.
As a council we need to find over £114m in savings over You have to ask yourself are these for real, or just a ruse by the next coupler of years. Unlike councils elsewhere in someone wanting to collect clothes, etc. for themselves for England, we are attempting to do so whilst protecting cash? From what I gather it is a great money earner but in my budgets, such as adult care, that look after the most street alone today (10th April) I see put out for collection by vulnerable people in our communities, despite these ageuk some 5 bags. amounting to more over half of the council’s net spend. I have yet to see one of the people delivering or collecting but What that means is that we have to make difficult they must sneak around from somewhere. decisions. One of the important ways in which we will do this is by raising capital from surplus assets to pay down Is this a sign that people think we are so affluent that we can council debts, which is what the sale of Ashton House will support all of these charities? Because if so, they are robbing enable us to do. I would note that balancing our budget is the charities that are in the town already.” not a “short-term financial consideration” – it is crucial rebalancing of our budget to enable the council to protect LITTER the most vulnerable on an ongoing basis. Eml from ‘a very sad cyclist’ (28/03) According to our selling agents, Knight Frank of Stratford "Dear Editor, upon Avon, a “For Sale” board will be erected next week, As a frequent cyclist in and around the highways and byways of brochures are ready and the property is already on their our beautiful Cotswold countryside, I'm dismayed by the website (search.knightfrank.com/brl110019). amount of litter and general rubbish scattered on the verges and in the hedgerows. So far as the doctors surgery is concerned, the sales particulars say “The local doctors practice have expressed Do some people have no pride? Do some people feel it’s their an interest in acquiring part of the site for a new surgery, "right" to strewn their rubbish where ever they think fit? which would be mutually advantageous to the successful bidder. We would ask that consideration is given to this It saddens me that there seems that nothing can be done to option in any proposals submitted.” So far as judging bids halt this ever increasing abuse. “ is concerned, we expect some bids to be conditional upon D. McDonald. say securing planning consent for an alternative use and some may be unconditional. We have not changed our How disappointing! position since last writing to you in that we will give serious consideration to any competitive bid which makes From the Editor( 21/04) provision for a new surgery. How disappointing that Stow Beacon Ward has two District For information, there has been a water leak at the new ward councillors and one County ward councillor, none of whom Elderly Person’s Home in Bourton on the Water. This will seem to understand the strength of feeling locally when it mean a delay of up to 3 months before residents will be comes to the community’s health and wellbeing. In fact, how able to move out of Ashton House. Nevertheless we do worrying! not believe this should delay the disposal. Stow Town Council have recently heard from the County Councillor (the first time in ages) who said that backing his Yours sincerely, Mark Hawthorne. leader was more important – why? What has he to lose? Or Leader – Gloucestershire County Council gain?
One District Councillor told STC that his role was to represent WE ARE THE WORLD’S WORST MIND-READERS! CDC to us (we always thought it was the other way around!). He has since advised that he won’t be attending meetings If you have an opinion or point of view anymore. The other Councillor seldom attends and only repeats Write or send an email to the Editor, Moreton Times, P O the party message. Box 6, Stow on the Wold GL54 1WD. [email protected] So who represents Stow Beacon at meetings of these two It’s difficult to make a difference if nobody knows what you’re important Councils when they are making decisions that will thinking. A positive outcome, or a problem solved, can be the affect us, that should be discussed with us? result of an idea shared. Editor
43 ZOONOSES : Diseases that Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust (GWT) welcomed a report from people and pets can catch The Bow Group urging the government to reconsider plans for from local wildlife a badger cull in England this autumn. The report ‘Common Sense and Bovine TB – Why the Government should abandon Diseases that people can catch badger culling trials in favour of vaccination’ presents evidence from animals are called zoonoses. as to why they believe badger culling is not the answer. There are hundreds worldwide, including some of the big killer diseases such as rabies, and others just as infamous although Dr Gordon McGlone, Chief Executive at Gloucestershire Wildlife they result in fewer human deaths, such as bird flu. In the UK Trust said: “We welcome the recommendation that the there are relatively few serious zoonoses - this article mentions Government should assemble a group to strategically develop a few of those which could be caught from wildlife in our area. badger vaccination. The Trust is using badger vaccination on its own reserves and feels a well-coordinated deployment of the Rats carry a number of diseases. One is leptospirosis, known as badger vaccination will be effective within England, rather than Weil’s disease in humans. In 2010 Andy Holmes, who won two a piecemeal approach which seems to be emerging.” Olympic Golds rowing with Steve Redgrave, died of leptospirosis. This bacterial disease is typically spread by rats’ Bow Group, a centre-right think tank founded in 1951 which urine and is commonly associated with water courses, a contributes to government policy-making – has stated the favourite haunt of rats. It can cause severe illness and death in following in their executive summary: dogs as well as in people and it is one of the diseases that vets protect dogs against it in their yearly vaccinations. Our • The Government is choosing the wrong method for tackling veterinary hospital periodically sees cases in unvaccinated dogs bovine Tuberculosis (bTB) in England. Recent, large badger and many of them die despite our treatment. The bacterium culling trials (11,000 badgers) have demonstrated projected causes liver and/or kidney failure and, in humans, meningitis. efficiency in reducing bTB in cattle of just 12-16% (depending on the model) over 9 years. Another zoonotic disease from rats is ‘rat bite fever’, caused by • Badger culling has been demonstrated to lead to the bacterium Streptobacillus moniliformis. Humans perturbation - a social fracturing that actually helps to spread commonly catch this illness from pet rather than wild rats and, bTB outside the affected area. despite its name, infection does not necessarily require a bite • In contrast, trials of vaccinating a proportion of the wild as infection can result from contact with wild rats. It can be badger population with BadgerBCG reduced the incidence of fatal in humans but more usually causes a rash and a prolonged positive serological TB test results by almost 74%. flu-like illness with joint pain. • Just 15% of badgers carry bTB and poor biosecurity may play a much bigger role in the spread of bTB. Serious lapses, Lyme disease is better known than leptospirosis or rat-bite whereby landowners have been re-tagging and transporting fever. It is becoming more frequent in the UK every year. It is infected cattle, are of deep concern. another bacterial infection and can infect both people and dogs • Compensation payouts for bTB should be linked to as well as many wild mammals, and is spread by tick bites. It biosecurity best practice. also most typically causes a flu-like illness with headaches and • Simple, cost effective measures are available to physically joint and muscle pain, with occasional cases becoming much separate badgers from cattle and can reduce the incidence of more severe. infection. • The population of foxes is likely to increase in areas where Cowpox is widespread in wood mice, bank voles and field badgers are culled, leading to additional problems for voles, and sometimes spreads to cats and to cattle. It is very farmers. Foxes also impact adversely on a number of species, rare but humans can catch cowpox from infected cats or cattle. including hares, a UK BAP species in decline. Our veterinary hospital sees a cat with cowpox perhaps every • Badger culling is likely to be more expensive than the couple of years, usually in the autumn, when wild rodents are Government hopes when additional policing, the resulting most numerous. In both cats and humans cowpox usually spread of bTB and delay to research of other, more effective causes painful, scabby skin lesions but it can also cause fever methods of reducing the disease are taken into account. and more serious illness. • Badger culling is deeply unpopular - independent market research confirms that 81% of people are opposed to the Although the UK is officially rabies free some bats in the UK Government’s plans. carry a rabies virus called European bat lyssavirus. This is not the classical rabies typically associated with dogs but, although The architect of the original Randomised Badger Culling Trials rare, can be just as deadly. An infected bat was found in near (RBCT), Lord Krebs, told the Bow Group: “Defra has said it Abingdon in 2006. Fortunately, the people who handled it wishes its policy for controlling TB in cattle to be science-led. were vaccinated against rabies. However, an unvaccinated bat There is a substantial body of scientific evidence that indicates handler died from rabies caught from a bite from a wild bat in that culling badgers will not be an effective or cost-effective Scotland in 2002. Always avoid sick bats. If you must handle policy.” them, wear thick gloves. GWT started a 5 year programme to vaccinate badgers against Martin L. Whitehead BSc, PhD, BVSc, CertSAM, MRCVS bovine TB on its own land in June 2011, to find a practical Chipping Norton Veterinary Hospital, solution to a serious animal disease problem and to explore the www.chippingnortonvets.co.uk practicalities of vaccination usage in the field.
44 Will is the Community Wildlife Officer with the Enhancing the Sherborne Cotswold Rivers Living Landscape team. His role involves engaging local volunteers, Watermeadows community groups and schoolchildren in the By Will Masefield. Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust programme - a large part of what makes the scheme so exciting. Nestling snugly in the knee-pit of the River Windrush valley, between Burford and Bourton-on-the-Water, lies the National Trust’s Sherborne Estate, famous for its eighteenth century watermeadows. pondweed, also present. To further increase the opportunities for water voles, brown trout and other species, the team is The seasonally-wet grassland of watermeadows can provide also enhancing the Sherborne Brook immediately suitable open habitat for over-wintering waders such as downstream of the watermeadows themselves. The coppicing snipe and lapwing, as well as fruitful hunting for owls, of 200m of hedge along one boundary of the watermeadows particularly barn owls and short-eared owls. The associated has opened-up the grassland for the over-wintering birds. We have also installed two barn owl boxes and created an wet ditches are also vital for supporting populations of artificial log-pile otter holt. threatened water voles.
Sadly, the Sherborne watermeadows have suffered in recent years from very low water levels in the River Windrush and in many of the in-field channels remaining dry all-year-round. In addition, parts of the remaining wet ditch network (now largely spring and/or groundwater fed) have become completely over-shaded by scrub, causing a decline in emergent and bankside vegetation.
But be not downcast, for help is at hand for the meadows and their associated wildlife. The harbingers of hope can be detected by their gentle cadences floating softly over the meadows, like thistledown; it’s only when you get closer that these lilting sounds turn out to be a murmur of vituperative cursing, effing and blinding (and generally good-natured There is still a lot of work we can do here, and it is thanks to bantering), emanating from Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust’s our volunteer group that it is possible at all. To me, this local volunteer group. In partnership with the National Trust community volunteering is one of the most powerful and local tenant farmers our Cotswold Rivers Living elements of the Cotswold Rivers Living Landscape programme. With support from the Heritage Lottery Fund and others, we Landscape team have embarked upon a major enhancement have been able to harness local enthusiasm to champion our programme for the watermeadows and nearby watercourses wildlife here in the Cotswolds, and I hope that such initiatives - ably assisted by this sizable and very keen volunteer will continue to improve our environment for years to come. If workforce! The team has replaced a number of degraded you are interested in volunteering to help wildlife in the sluices on the site in order to stabilise the water levels in the Cotswolds, please contact me at wet ditches and to retain more water in the in-field channels will.masefi[email protected] for longer. Our winter work included scrub control along 07793 307056. There may also be opportunities to volunteer 750m of wet ditches in preparation for re-profiling later this at Sherborne with the National Trust. For wider volunteering summer. opportunities, to become a member of Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust or to take part in Trust events throughout the The intention here is to re-establish water vole habitat and year, visit www.gloucestershirewildlifetrust.co.uk benefit the (somewhat less than charismatic but or call 01452 383333. nevertheless nationally important) opposite-leaved EVENTS in the North Cotswolds in MAY
The Wind in the Willows Thurs 10th 6:30pm - Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust Venue: Greystones Farm nature reserve, Bourton Book now on: 01452 383333 A specially adapted outdoor performance of The Wind in the Willows
Open Afternoon at Brassey Tues 29th 2pm - 4pm - Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust Venue: Brassey nature reserve, nr Bourton-on-the-Water An opportunity to see this unusual site not normally open to the public.
45 A month into the new tax year and lots of new initiatives by HM Revenue & Customs, many of which are Need Help With forcing more people to process Returns online & make payments electronically. One of these will give those “customers” who pay their tax through PAYE the ability to access up to date information about how much tax & national insurance they’ve paid during the year. This is all very well but the problem Online Filing? comes when a new employer tries to file this information as it is still taking up to six weeks for HMRC to issue new employer references, something every employer will need before filing online. I’m sure it Contact would have saved a lot of taxpayers money by simply getting each employer to print in bold capitals on each payslip, ‘Please keep this payslip safe as it not only tells you how much tax & national insurance you’ve paid this month but it also gives details of how much you’ve paid during the tax year’. Simple, Robb Eden yes, effective, yes but as we know both government & HMRC have to make things so much more complicated. for: With reference to the above it beggars belief that with the move to computerised payroll & accounting, so reducing paperwork or so they say, that HMRC still require you to produce paper copies of any Accounts Preparation & Analysis information they request if you have an inspection. Sometimes this can run into thousands of PAYE & Book-keeping documents. It’s admitted that every now & again they will ask for a backup but more often than not they will request reams of paper. Again, for businesses who process a lot of micro-payments through Vat Returns Paypal and the like this can be frustrating, especially when a business is Vat registered yet getting an Personal Tax invoice proves to be difficult. I’ve continually maintained that the whole tax system needs an overhaul & this is one of the areas that needs a quick fix otherwise a lot of businesses will find that expenditure is Sage Training discounted by the inspector as no paperwork can be produced. Business Tax Just before I go, may I point you to my first paragraph? You will see that early on I have used the word “customers”, a term HMRC use for people & businesses who pay their tax, whereas later I use the word More than just accounts - a personal service “taxpayers” a term that I believe better reflects the relationship between ourselves and the collection tailored to your needs. We will work with you agency. We are taxpayers & HMRC need to appreciate this. to get the best from your business. Finally, if you’ve received a Tax Return or a notice to deliver a Tax Return you have plenty of time to submit these. However, if you’re unsure about what to do you should either contact your accountant or, if you’re worried in anyway about filling in your Return or online filing, give me a ring at the telephone 01608 651802 number below. Telephone advice is free of charge.
[email protected] Robb Eden is based in Moreton-in-Marsh. He can be contacted via e-mail at [email protected] or by telephone 01608 651802.
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46 AshortstorybyNICHOLASJOHN The Falls of Falloch The approach to the Drovers Inn lay beyond a wooden bridge patches on the ceiling. In alcoves in the walls, stuffed pheasants over the river. The planks were slippery from the constant mist posed unnaturally, transfixed on wooden plinths. ofspraythattheFallsthrewskywards.Connorcouldhearlittle "You never know, we might pick up a couple of birds …" but the roar of the falling water, the clump of their boots on the Selleck grinned, looking around him. Connor breathed heavily, slats. The tumult filled his head and he gripped the handrails calming his sudden irritation. Selleck, ever the voice of reason. tightly, placing each step with care. He kept his eyes on Of course he hadn't seen Angie. How on earth could he have? Selleck's back, a few paces ahead and was grateful when his feet He lowered himself wearily into a chair. gripped the sodden turf of the far bank. Ahead of them, dark "Take your coat off, it's soaking," said Selleck, "I've checked against the skyline, the Inn appeared as an indistinct shape, us in. Food's on, we can eat whenever." slowly materialising in the grey light of evening as they drew Connor nodded. Obviously he'd been mistaken. Someone nearer. else, just looking out of a window. Could've been any girl, he "That's a long day," he heard Selleck say, "a hard day too." hadn't seen her face clearly … yet he couldn't shake the feeling, "Aye, I'm glad we're here. It'll be dark soon, we wouldn't his gut instinct, that certainty he'd had. As he'd stared at the have wanted to be out another hour." figure, his mind racing, the light had snapped off, sweeping the "We're getting too old for this Conn!" Selleck said, half- courtyard back into darkness. He'd panicked, grabbed his rucsac turning. "We're slowing down! These old legs are feeling it and barged inside. He couldn't even remember now which now …" window it was. Connor grunted in agreement, feeling the strain of over-tired "Idiot, it's getting to you," he thought. Selleck was looking at muscles and aching joints. They'd made this journey, this him, mouth creasing into a half-smile. And that smile made up pilgrimage, every year since they were both twenty-one: a his mind for him. He pushed his chair back quickly and got to University promise neither wished to break, good health his feet. allowing. Thirty-three years, every year. The West Highland "Hang on a minute, I'll be right back." Way, the near-hundred miles from Milngavie to Fort William. And, without fail, a night at the Drovers every trip. Almost a He rang the bell on the front desk. Twice. A girl came out of an ritual. office across the hall and looked at him enquiringly. "Can I help?" The Inn was illuminated by a blanket of light thrown from two, "I've just….just seen a friend. I think she must be staying tall, metal lamplights. An evening mist was settling, damp and here, or in a room out back." Connor indicated vaguely towards cold, the late afternoon already a memory. The sound of voices the outside door. reached them from the open window of the bar, but they ignored "Angie Royden." He steadied himself, "Miss Angela the front door and passed under the broad archway that led into Royden." The words seemed clumsy, unnatural even. The girl the small, rear courtyard. The acknowledged "walkers' opened a large leather-bound register on the desk and ran her entrance." finger down the names and entries. "I'll get us checked in then. See you in the bar – my round!" "Sorry, I've checked and there's no-one – " Selleck threw his muddy boots into the corner of the large porch "You're sure?" Now he felt a little stupid. "Of course, she and heaved the oaken door wide. Connor bent and unlaced his could be married by now … ." He tailed off, there was nothing own boots, back muscles protesting. He straightened slowly, he could add. Feeling self-conscious, he turned: Selleck was glancing across the darkened courtyard. A yellow spill of light standing in the doorway to the bar, leaning against the wall, pint glowed from a first-floor window directly opposite him, in hand. perfectly framing the silhouette of a young woman. Although The girl was saying, "I'm sorry sir, we haven't had anyone by the face was in shadow, Connor's heart lurched – he knew the name of Royden, or even an Angela, staying here in the last beyond certainty who it was: someone he had not seen for week." She looked up at Connor, then across at Selleck. nearly thirty-four years, but someone he thought about every "OK, thanks anyway." He said it automatically and he year, every time he walked in through the door of the Drovers looked at his friend. Selleck shook his head and said "come on, Inn. There was no doubt. It was Angie. Conn" and walked back into the bar.
"Selleck!" Connor crossed the bar, finding his friend at a table in ***** the corner, two pints of dark, red beer already in front of him. A fire crackled noisily in the grate, steam rising from Selleck's "You think I'm imagining it, don't you?" They were sitting at a damp jacket, slung across the back of a chair. corner table in the bar, which was now full of walkers, drinkers, "Selleck! I've just seen Angie!" locals and visitors alike. They'd changed out of their damp "Don't be daft – " clothes, eaten and settled down with their drinks. "I mean it. I saw her, here! At a window across the yard. I'm Selleck appeared to start at the words, but Connor knew he'd not joking! I wouldn't joke about it would I?" been expecting him to bring it up again. He didn't say anything, "Sit down Conn, have your pint. How can she be here?" just let the question hang unanswered between them. Selleck spoke slowly and calmly. "It's been a hard day, you're "You think I'm imagining it, don't you, Selleck?" He pressed tired. We're both tired." He pushed a chair out for Connor with harder, willing him on, yet fearful of an answer he already his foot. The room was heady with the smell of pine logs, a giant knew. stag's head hung over the fireplace, antlers pointing at damp Selleck shook his head slowly, "Conn – "
47 "Don't talk me out of it, Selleck. I know I saw her." Connor "Connor, don't be stupid, man!" Selleck was grabbing at him, looked him straight in the eye, demanding a concession, at the pinning his arms to his sides, shouting in his ear. "She's not here, very least some kind of an acknowledgement. "You know I saw d'you understand? She's not here! Come back inside, you've had her too." too much, come in -" Selleck leaned forward, elbows resting on the table. He Connor wrenched himself free and spun to face Selleck, head looked at his friend in silence, holding Connor's gaze. reeling. They stood, just inches apart and he shouted at the top "Angie's not here, Conn," he finally said. "You know that, of his voice. better than anyone." "You know I saw her Selleck!You just won't admit it! She's here, God knows, she's here and I have to see her!" ***** He looked up at the lighted windows. "Angie!" He called again but the words were lost in the animal howl of the wind. Connor knew he was drinking too much. Some men drank And in the rush, his willpower vanished, draining him of all without restraint, without reason, but not him. He sometimes anger and determination. He turned to Selleck, tears coursing drank to remember, mostly he drank to forget, but there was down his cheeks. always a reason. And lately it was, more often than not, the same "Where is she, Selleck? I've got to find her. I saw her, I know reason. He looked around: the walls were hung with sepia prints Idid.Whyisn'tshelookingoutofthewindow?" in ornate frames – Inverarnan, Derrydaroch, Crianlarich, the Connor hardly noticed that Selleck was gripping him by the Falls – old photographs, glass yellowed with age and smoke. front of his jacket, forcing his head back. He barely registered The past was closing in on him. that his friend was not smiling any more, his eyes hard, black "Damn you, Selleck," he muttered as he waited to be served, pinpricks in a face whitened by snow, and he scarcely heard the empty glasses in front of him. "And to hell with you too … ." He answer breathed close into his ear, though it was the answer he'd looked tiredly at his own reflection in the mirror behind the bar. been dreading, the answer he'd been expecting to hear for thirty- They'd not said another word about Angie, or whoever the girl three years . was he'd seen in the window. He'd told himself to let it go, drink "Because you killed her! That's why she's not looking out of up, sleep and be away early. the window Conn! That's why!" Selleck released his grip and He caught the barman's eye and nodded, taking in, but not Connor sank to his knees in the snow. He couldn't feel anything, really seeing, the knot of people in the room, the hub of voices. not the cold, nor the wet, not anything past the ache of the truth Think about it some other time. Then his attention was drawn to and the brutal simplicity of Selleck's words. And he was right, of ascrolled,woodenplaquehe'dnotnoticedbefore,nailedhighon course. He had killed Angie Royden and, in the snow flurries of abeam. aScottishwinter,ithadallcomebacktohimandeventhe terrible, howling wind couldn't take it away … ´"When ye return, the wine will flow and theW songshen beye r sung,eturn my, the darling."wine will flow To be continued … and the songs be sung, my darling." The Drovers Inn can be found near Inverarnan, on the A82, north of Loch Lomond. I think it's fair to say it has a style all of its own! The River Falloch The words held his gaze for what might have been a moment, or runs close by and The Falls lie a little way upstream. an eternity. Voices broke around him like waves and he dimly heard the barman asking for money. With difficulty, he forced STOW TIMES himself back to some kind of reality, paid and took the refilled glasses back to the table. SHORT STORY COMPETITION "You alright, Conn?" Selleck looked up at him, eyes All the entries have been received and are now searching his face. safely with the panel of Judges, who have the "She's here." Connor drank heavily from his pint, ignoring difficult task of finding a winner and runner-up the pounding in his head. (possibly two runners-up). "No, Conn. She's not. It's your mind, playing tricks." "Shall we go and see, Selleck?" Connor was angry, fuelled Decisions are due in time for publication in the June by the drink and a sudden confusion of distant memories which edition. The winners will be notified by post prior to almost overwhelmed him. "Shall we go and find her then?" He publication. demanded loudly, draining his glass in one and lurching to his feet, his chair scraping across the stone flags. Selleck tried to grab his arm, but was pinned behind the table There are cash prizes and we will be publishing the and Connor had pushed through the throng of bodies and out of the winning stories in the next editions (in all four bar before he could get to his feet. He crossed the hallway and magazine titles). pulled open the heavy door, swaying as the cold air hit him, making him gasp as it forced the breath out of his body. Snow was We hope that the Stow Times Short Story falling in flurries, driven by a biting wind, sharp gusts whistling in Competition will become an annual event. It will through the archway. Connor paused in the porch for a moment, always be based on a local theme or subject, and can letting the door close hard behind him. He was unsure of what to be a true story or pure fiction – the choice is yours! do; there were lights shining from several of the windows in the courtyard, people in their rooms, already preparing for bed. He So keep your imagination in top working order and heard the door open behind him and felt a hand drag at his write those stories down – who knows, you might shoulder, but pulled away and staggered forward, out into the open. have a winning story in 2013. "Angie!" He shouted, but the wind tore at his words and he could barely hear his own voice. Good Luck! Jenni Turner, Editor 48 Gloucestershire Went Wild for first National Gardening Week
Over 110 square metres of wildflower meadow were sown in Gloucestershire over the weekend of 14-15 April, to mark the launch of the UK’s biggest environmental campaign, RHS Britain in Bloom 2012. The initiative will help to replenish some of the 97% of wildflower meadows lost since 1930. A Professional, Sympathetic Groups and schools in Gloucestershire were among 1,200 across the & Dignified Service UK who sowed millions of wildflower seeds provided by the RHS. UK wildflower populations are in serious decline. Between 1930 and • Independent Family Run Funeral Directors 1980 97% of wildflower meadows were lost across England and • Pre-Paid Funeral Plans • Memorial Monuments Wales. The pressures of agriculture and development, together with neglect, continue to impact on the remaining areas, a having a We stock a selection of traditional coffins as well as a wide significant effect on our ecosystem. range of Eco coffins including willow, bamboo, pandanas (wild pineapple), seagrass, banana leaf and wool. ‘Wild about Wildflowers’ is a nationwide celebration of Britain’s unsung heroes - more than 200,000 community volunteers throughout the UK who clean up and green-up around 30,000 acres of public space (equivalent to more than 86 Hyde Parks) for the benefit of us all. Sarah Raven, who presented Bees, Butterflies and Blooms on BBC TV, has been passionate about wildflowers since she was a little girl.”We’re in the process of rediscovering our love for wildflowers, so Wild about Wildflowers is fantastic. We need to love our planet for it to survive and what better way to do this than to engage with it in this way! I can’t wait to see the gorgeous colour that will emerge all over the country over the summer.”
The recent wildflower renaissance has produced a surge in popularity of wildflowers. Since the first episode of Bees, Butterflies and Blooms, the Wisley Plant Centre at RHS Garden Wisley has sold 272 insect-friendly wildflower packs – 272 more than in the same period in 2011! There are also plans to sow two new wildflower meadows at RHS Garden Wisley this year. Once the wildflowers are in full bloom groups will be able to record the number of insects they see via an online bug survey created by the RHS in partnership with Buglife, the invertebrate conservation charity. And it’s not too late to join in - the RHS is encouraging everyone to join in (simply type your postcode into a map on RHS Online: www.rhs.org.uk/getinvolved).
For further details / for more information contact Ed Horne on [email protected] or 020 7821 3356.
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58 Miles of training prove worth it as the season heats up! By the time this issue is published, many of the key marathons that Bourton Roadrunners’ members are training for will be done and dusted. 26.2 miles will have been run, raced, hobbled or spectated as local runners take part in London, Brighton, Milton Keynes, Lochaber and others. The days are now longer and as the sun appears more often the thought of long training runs seems that bit more pleasant and our members are performing well. In the Cotswold 10K Cal Winwood ran a superb race to nish 2nd, while the Reading Half saw Steph Holton produce yet another yet another PB! Gloucester 20 proves a good marathon warm up The long miles put in are paying o with good results in the Gloucester 20 mile road race. Shona Crombie-Hicks was 1st lady in 2:08:47, 7 minutes ahead of 2nd place, and Tony Goodwill’s training is paying dividends as he nished in 2:24:07. Nigel Frith is coming on particularly well, beating his own 20 mile PB set just weeks ago by 3 seconds with 2:28:30 and Claire Harrison had a great run with a very impressive time of 2:34:43, pulling away from John Gibson in the last half mile. Rob Humphries had yet another strong performance with 2:37:45, Andy McCoombes nished in 2:48:15. while Steph Holton and GIll Carrick battled it out to the end. Both nished in under 2hrs 50, and David Pyne was just over the 3hr mark. Steve Edwards closer to 500 marathon goal Steve Edwards continues to close down on his goal of 500 sub 3hr 30 min marathons. After 3 weeks o through injury, he has come back to complete marathons at Taunton and Hull. He now has only 19 to go - hopefully even fewer by the time you read this. Ed Rozier and Roger Woodley are also getting near to their target of 100 half marathons. While Steve ran the Marathon in Taunton, they ran the half, and the triumphant 3 are pictured below. The half marathoners obviously had time to change before Steve nished!
Steve Edwards closer to 500 marathon goal
FREE TRAINING AVAILABLE FREEPHONE 0800 1955 640 INSTRUCTOR 07977 56 00 86 www. martialartsvoucher.co.uk
30 years of Bourton Roadrunners SEPARATE ADULT AND Our club was formed in 1981, and to mark the passing of over 30 CHILDREN’S CLASSES years Chairman Robin Macdonald has put out an appeal for NOW TRAINING AT photographs and stories to pull together a history, so if any old CHIPPING NORTON members reading this have something they’d like to contribute, STOW ON THE WOLD please e-mail me at [email protected] and I’ll pass it on. The Humph’s Hilly Half Marathon - June 16th Our annual event run in memory of Steve Humphries is a Saturday evening race (for cooler temperatures, just in case we get a summer), and runs past Clapton on the Hill, through Sherborne, Windrush and Barrington, then back to Bourton via Great Rissington. A good one to watch, it’s not called the ‘Hilly’ Half for nothing. Starting in Victoria Street, Bourton-on-the-Water at 6pm the race is sponsored by Hacklings Palletline. If you fancy a scenic 13.1 mile run visit bourtonroadrunners.com and download an entry form!
Report by Jo Lewis
If you’d like to join us we run at 7pm (2-3 miles) and at 7.30pm (6-8 miles) every Tuesday and Thursday evening - all abilities are welcome. Please contact Lynn Hudson on 01242 820920 for further details.
59 The Clubhouse, Oddington Road, Stow on the Wold GL54 1AH 01451 830887 www.pitchero.com/clubs/stowrfc/ CHECK WEBSITE FOR REPORTS, PHOTOS, NEWS & INFO
STOW ON THE WOLD Reports by Sean Clarke & DISTRICT RFC
STOW builds its County Championship Record In March Stow on the Wold Rugby Club hosted the Under 8s However, they had not read the script and came up against a pool games and quarter finals of the County Cup. Thanks to a most determined and skilful Stow side that showed maturity lot of hard work and military precision by the organiser, Wayne well beyond their years. Early pressure came from Cleeve but Loxton, the day was a great success. He even managed to book only delivered one try. Stow hit back and took control, their the weather and the teams played in sunshine. Nearly 400 forwards taking control. Archie Benson levelled the score then players from across the county and parts of Bristol took part, Oscar Roberts raced in to take Stow into the lead. Cleeve hit all hoping to be in one of the 4 teams that would progress to back with a try from a penalty move, leaving the game balanced the semis and finals at Longlevens at the end of the month. For at 2 all at the break. A gentle piece of advice at half time saw those that didn’t make the Cup finals there would be the Stow take command of the game, driving Cleeve back even consolation of the Plate for the 2nd placed teams in each pool. when possessing the ball, and surviving on scraps. Tries from Theo Hayward, Archie Benson and two from Jack Williams put Stow Under 8s entered two teams and with a good season to the game well out of reach and Stow deservedly took the title date, they were quietly confident. Both teams won their pools of Gloucestershire County Champions, making history as the and went forward to the quarter finals. The B team narrowly only Stow side to win consecutive County Cups. The final score lost to Old Bristolians but the A team beat St Brendans and was 6 tries to 2. progressed to the semi-finals.
Stow drew Hucclecote in the semi-final and dominated a good opposition with strong tagging and attacking. Stow’s “attack in defence” left a rather shell-shocked opposition who turned the ball over several times, allowing a flowing Stow team to move through the tags and score several tries. Stow’s strong defensive game stifled Hucclecote and ultimately led to a convincing 7:2 win. The other semi-final produced a win for Old Bristolians who would now play Stow A in the finals. Stow started well and finished even better. Built on a strong defence their game pushed the opposition back and forced errors or gets the ball back on turnover. Strong tagging and attacking the space, backed up with clever support play, led to 8 tries to only 2 in response and the title of County Champions!
STOW Under 11s – COUNTY CHAMPIONS
Stow Under 15s reached the County Plate finals and faced Lydney. Twenty minutes of almost perfect rugby meant the final was as good as over well before halftime. County player Ollie Thorley scored the first of four tries after just one minute, running straight through the Lydney defence, repeating the act two minutes later. Constant Stow pressure soon produced a third for Thorley and then captain Ellery Miller went over from a tapped penalty to put the game out of site before Lydney had any possession. The question was not ‘who’ would win, but ‘by how much?’ Lydney were awarded a stream of penalties up to and after the break which brought a halt to Stow's attacking dominance. They conceded only one try – a reflection of the STOW Under 8s – COUNTY CHAMPIONS quality of the strength of their defence. As Lydney tired Stow scored further tries from Archie Hayward and Thorley. This was a one sided final and only Stow's indiscipline avoided a larger Stow Under 11s cruised into the semi- finals for the chance to margin of victory. However Stow were dominant in all phases of defend the title they had won last year. Drawn against St. the game and were worthy champions. The final score, Stow 38, Mary’s Old Boys in their semi-final Stow were always on top in Lydney 7. the match and dominated from the start, with the forwards in rampant form. At the break Stow were two tries up, both scored Stow Under 17s have also reached the Plate Final which is due by Archie Benson - a third from John Tidman saw them through to be played after going to press. to the finals. Stow faced Cleeve in the finals. Cleeve hadn’t lost a game all season and were on good form and like Stow, their defence had let in very few tries.
60 MORETON-IN-MARSH BOWLS CLUB CRAZY PAVING - But not as you know it!!
In preparation for the grand opening of the new clubhouse and green which takes place on Saturday 21st April a task force of about 20 intrepid club members gave up their time over a two week period in order to create the paved surrounds of the playing area.
Following a week of preparatory work which included securing perimeter fencing and the installation of the Club`s flagpole well over one thousand paving slabs - yes - one thousand - Under 15s – COUNTY PLATE WINNERS were laid in a five-day period under the supervisory eye of Vernon Rowledge and of the Club`s vice-chairman Joe Scott. Four teams from Stow have reached the County Finals This huge effort was also supported by lady members who, in with three winning so far - a great testament to the addition to providing a constant supply of tea, coffee, sausage strength of the club. To put this into context it should be rolls, cake and biscuits also helped with some of the manual remembered that Gloucestershire is a strong rugby county. work. Aside from those that won, a good number of other age groups also reached either the quarters or semis of the cups including the Under 10s who walked away from the THANK YOU TO ALL MEMBERS WHO CONTRIBUTED, IN ANY County Cup with the Fair Play award. WAY, TO THIS GREAT SUCCESS. The new season begins shortly after the official opening and LAST YEAR TWO STOW TEAMS WON THE CUP AND IT the Club is very keen to invite anyone, of any age, who may be WAS A FANTASTIC ACHIEVEMENT. THIS YEAR HAS interested in Bowls to come along to see for themselves what BEEN EVEN BETTER. wonderful new facilities we have.
Anyone who wishes to visit the club should contact: Four Shires Swimming Club DAVID STANFIELD (01451 824338) or TILLY PEARSON (01386 700369). April was a busy month for Four Shires Swimming Club, with four of our swimmers Calum Smart, Charlie Bentley, Tag Curwen and Lucy Griffin competing in the County Championships as well as the club holding its annual in-house Club Championships. All four swimmers did well in their individual races with both Calum and Lucy reaching the finals.
We had over 50 club swimmers competing in our Spring Club Meet (Club Championships). Many of them are new to the club and this was their first taste of competition. Some youngsters were incredibly nervous, but they conquered their fears and everyone swam well. There was a fantastic atmosphere on both evenings of the meet and several children and parents have reported back that their children were so enthused they can’t wait to get competing against other clubs! Kim Wheetman, our head coach said “There have been some cracking swims. It’s great to see so many club members Chipping Norton Bowls Club wanting to swim all the races”. We are grateful to Kingham Hill School for allowing us to run over our allotted time schedule on Bowls Is A Game Anyone Can Play both evenings in order to Come Along And Enjoy Our Wonderful Outdoor And Indoor Facilities - complete the competition. And Be Sure Of A Warm Welcome
Calum Smart also won The FREE PARKING ON SITE Chipping Norton Sports Award for ALL BEGINNERS EQUIPMENT SUPPLIED his age group. Highly COACHING SESSIONS Commended in the same age are 2pm to 4pm EVERY MONDAY group was Isobel Meikle who has From MONDAY 23RD APRIL - MONDAY 10TH SEPTEMBER worked her way through 4SSC FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL: and is now a swimmer at City of Val Harris - 01608 658201 or Oxford Swimming Club and swims Roberta Jarvie - 01608 643556 at regional level. HOW TO FIND US Chipping Norton Bowls Club Well done both Isobel and Calum; Calum with his Sports Award Greystones, Burford Road the club is very proud. (Located alongside Rugby Club) and County medals www.4ssc.co.uk 61 The Rotary Club of the North Cotswolds
Multi-sports Coaching North Cotswolds Rotary Club organised a successful free multi- sports coaching day for 7-13 year-olds on Sunday 17th April at the Cotswold School Bourton-on-the-Water, in association with Cotswold District Council. This popular event took place in fine weather and Scott Burry, the CDC's Youth Sports Development Officer and his Sports Club team provided coaching in a safe, friendly environment covering a range of sports including football, volleyball, handball and basketball. Ian Beaslie and Stow Rugby Club added to the fun and enjoyment with rugby coaching throughout the day.
Rotary thanks The Cotswold School for use of their excellent facilities for both indoor and outdoor sessions. Thanks also to George Hemmings for his marquee, Police Community Support Officer Mel, and St John Ambulance for their support. All owners, Abbotswood Gardens at Stow on the Wold were participants relaxed with refreshments kindly donated by open to the public in aid of the END POLIO NOW campaign. Budgens Supermarket, proudly displaying their attendance Many visitors enjoyed the beautiful gardens with colourful medals at the end of the day. displays of Spring flowers against the backdrop of the house and famous Lutyens fountain. Members of The Ladies Tuesday End Polio Now & Abbotswood Club (wives of Rotarians) provided a tasty selection of After 25 years of hard work the world-wide Rotary movement refreshments. and its partners are getting closer to eliminating polio, a disease that has crippled millions of people worldwide. Retirement Reaching the goal of a polio-free world presents ongoing Our thanks and best wishes to Mike Beckett who, after challenges, however, and a significant funding gap remains. 34 years of dedicated service to Rotary, including a year as By the time the world is certified polio-free Rotary's President in 1985-86, has decided to retire. contributions to the global effort will have exceeded $1.2 billion – almost 14% of all contributions to the global budget, Youth & Music –Don'tmissthewonderfulYoungMusicians or 66% of private sector contributions to this initiative over of the Year Concert on Saturday 5th May, 7.30pm at St many years. Edward's Church, Stow-on-the-Wold. Organised by the Rotary Club of the North Cotswolds, all proceeds from this The North Cotswolds Rotary Club has contributed outstanding concert will go towards Rotary's own charity to regularly to the eradication campaign. Their latest fund-raising help humanitarian work worldwide. Tickets £10, available at event was on 22nd April when, with the kind permission of the the door.
NORTHLEACH AND FOSSE LIONS CLUB AdonationwasmadetoLinC,theLeukaemiaandIntensive Chemotherapy Fund based at Cheltenham General Hospital. permanent houses, a community centre and classrooms and a laboratory at the National Nursing School.And the work Further distribution of the Club's promotional leaflet is being is still continuing. made in the Bourton area to encourage new membership. TheCirencesterBranchoftheClubmeetsonthethird A very successful skittles evening was enjoyed by members Thursday of each month at The Talbot Arms at 7.30 All and partners as was a wine & cheese party at the President's interested people are welcome. For more details contact home.The Club's Annual Charter Anniversary Dinner is being [email protected] held at The Swan Hotel in Bibury on 11 May TheNorthleachClubmeetsonthesecondTuesdayofeach The next Car Boot Sale at the Countrywide forecourt in month for its business meeting.The venue is the Wheatsheaf Bourton will be held on Sunday 13 May. Inn in Northleach at 8 pm.All interested are welcome to come. The next meeting is 8 May. For further information the Club Since the earthquake in Haiti two years ago, Lions website is northleachandfosselions.org.uk or telephone 0845 International has continued to help by building 400 8339825
62
If you are under 30 and The New Rotary Club of care about good beer
Kingham & Daylesford and good pubs
CAMRA has been campaigning for over 40 years so itPs Fireman Sam in the 21st century is certainly very different. not so surprising that many of us are not as young as we were when it all The club recently had an excellent overview of the UK Fire and started. But the campaign is not over yet. If you are under 30 and care Rescue Service from Gavin Roberts a senior group manager about good beer and good pubs then maybe you should consider getting involved. from the Fire Service College, based in Moreton-in-Marsh. We were told that the Fire Service has changed dramatically over We have a Young MembersP contact, Michael Herbert. He has arranged a series of drop-in 'surgeries' where those that are curious can meet him the years yet it is still highly decentralised with 46 Distinct and other like-minded people from their area, ask questions, give Brigades based on Local Authority geographical boundaries. suggestions and, if not yet a member, maybe even join. The three services Fire, Ambulance and Police now cooperate The meetings are on Thursday 24 May: 19.00 Inn on the Marsh, Moreton extensively in planning and training for coordination at the in Marsh, 20.30 Mousetrap Inn, Bourton-on-the-Water scene of actual incidents. Specialist units are either available If you cannot make these meetings please ring 07760 134866. as a Brigade resource or, in the case of highly specialised equipment or in team expertise, are on call 24/7 from Martyn Herbert neighbouring organisations. This sharing of very expensive kit www.camra.org.uk/ keeps down the cost nationally. Fire fighting is now not the number one activity with road traffic accidents the primary incident call out – apparently down STOW RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB – to improved health and safety in business, improved building materials and better protection awareness in the home. The Fire Solar Panels Appeal and Rescue Service offer a free "fire protection" survey of your home which may include fitting smoke Last month we carried an article from SRFC member David alarms, which many people have found to be most Oughton, who set out the SFRC appeal for funds to assist with helpful. In Oxfordshire call 01865 842999 or visit the costs of re-roofing the clubhouse. www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/content/fire-safety-home. The Club has undertaken a major project that will enhance the In Gloucestershire call 0800 180 41 40 or visit facilities and greatly reduce the cost of electricity and have a www.glosfire.gov.uk/your_safety.html positive impact on the environmental issues in power Fireman SamPs neighbours can sleep safe at night with such generation. We have re-roofed the Clubhouse with insulated a professional service on call! composite sheeting and installed a 29.6 kWp pv Solar System. A key part of the exercise was to take advantage of Roll up on May 9th ... the beneficial rates available, enabling the Club to utilize The Rollright Stones explained £1400 of free power per annum, while at the same time There is no doubt that the ancient pumping power into the National Grid. Rollright Stone Circle is a place of mysterious beauty and subtle To meet an extremely tight deadline two colleagues and I energies. Many dowsers (people underwrote the project on the ClubPs be half, buying time to seeking to find these earth raise the necessary funds. I have taken on the responsibility of energies/magnetic fields/ley lines) leading this fund raising exercise from within the Club and have recorded powerful reactions here. One local ley line runs from the “Good and the Great” of the community. In this way from Rollright through the churches of Long Compton and we can guarantee anonymity for those donors who wish to Chipping Norton and onto Charlbury. Another goes in a circle via remain so; on the other hand, there will be a recognition board Churchill. for those who prefer recognition for their generosity. Gift Aid Robin Smitten, Trustee and Warden is our speaker. The forms are also available. public are always welcome to “speaker nights” so if you would Since then Government has lost its case to reduce in Feed in like to attend 6pm for 6.30 on Wednesday 9th May please call Tariffs. Mike Clark 01451 830684 … stay for dinner at £12.50 if you wish. David Oughton: “This means that once we have raised the Elvis for President … Friday May 4th £75,000 pounds to pay for our installation we will be netting in There are a very few tickets still available for “An evening with excess of £10,000 per year for the club.” Elvis “at the Beaconsfield Hall, Shipton Under Wychwood. £25 All donations to our appeal are welcome no matter how small includes dinner and much more! Call Paul Jackson 01993 83 and signing a gift aid form means the government gives us 1967. Profits will go to SSNAP the special child care ward at the another 20% on top of your donation. This is a brilliant JR in Oxford. opportunity to help the club long term (the deal is index linked for 25 years) so please contact Dave Oughton (Stretch) on Taste the wine. Test the brain. Tuck in on May 25th! 07976819613 or [email protected]. The club is again organising one of it regular wine tasting parties (Kingham Village Hall 7.30pm) but this time an interesting quiz is being added to the wine and food … all for a bargain £15 per person. Profits will go to African charities. Call Lionel Rossington 01608 643344 for tickets.
Champagne Classic set for Sunday 1st July Kingham Hill School Now in it its second year and not just for classic cars this year sees an expansion of the Art Show, Roving Jazz for the picnickers, Opera fun Cabaret and the Auction of Great Promises plus champagne from Laurent Perrier … all for £10 per person! See www.champagneclassic.org.uk
63 Blockley WI request more training for midwives Each year WI members choose, from a short list, one resolution for debate at the National Federation’s AGM at the Royal Albert Hall in May. This year’s resolution, supported by Blockley WI, will ask the Government to increase investment in the training and employment of midwives in order to overcome the chronic shortage in that vital area of medicine. Our May programme promises to be varied and interesting:- Thursday 3rd May,7.15pm (7.30pm for visitors) in Blockley Church, A TALK by Jeremy Bourne – The History of this ancient parish church.
STOW & DISTRICT CIVIC SOCIETY Cotswold North Group of WIs Weds 27th June. AGM at St David’s Centre in Moreton, 7pm. “The Story of Batsford Arboretum” on Thursday, 7th June at 7.30 p.m. We are pleased to welcome Sue Burn who will talk Members from Broadwell with Donnington, Moreton in about the history of this local arboretum, its recent multi- Marsh, Moreton Evening W.I, Oddington and Stow on the million pound development programme and also take us on Wold W.Is are welcome. an illustrated tour month by month of this lovely garden. Tickets £4 from their Secretary/ Group Secretary (01608 Venue: Baptist Hall, Stow. All Members free. 650821) include a finger Buffet. Visitors (£2.50) and new members (£6) will be warmly Guest Speaker: PRUE LEITH ‘My life on a Plate’ welcomed. Please contact Rachel Surman for further details on 01451 833783 or log on to our website: www.stowcivicsociety.co.uk NORTH COTSWOLD PROBUS Our visit to the SS Great Britain in Bristol on 16th May is The AGM was held at Fisher House, Stow on Thursday, April now fully booked but if you would like to add your name to 12th. Ray Poulton took over as Chairman for the next 12 a waiting list should there be any cancellations then please months with Sir Robert Morland as Vice-Chairman, Martin contact Rachel Surman on 01451 833783. Hornby as Secretary, Alun White as Treasurer, Richard Morley as Speaker Secretary, and Tom Fawcett as Social Secretary. Moreton - in – Marsh W.I. Next Meeting 3 May: Speaker: Renata Calverley talking Members enjoyed light refreshments provided by the new about her childhood in occupied Poland during World War Social Secretary and his wife Lorna. Donations from Two. A complete contrast to our previous talk ‘Life on St members towards costs provided a contribution to the local Kilda’, but just as fascinating. No-one can say we don’t have Helen & Douglas House charity. a wide variety of speakers. North Cotswold Probus is a friendly social club for retired 17th May Social Meeting - Cream Tea at Timothy’s Tea businessmen, who meet for coffee and a chat, with Room at Fosseway Garden Centre. Transport available from interesting and often light-hearted guest speakers on the the WI hall to anyone who would like to come. There will 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at Fisher House, Stow. also be a chance to wander round the shop (and be tempted by all the lovely plants on sale!) Let Shirley or Angela know Next meeting: May 24th. Roger Jones will talk about the if you can come, at the next Meeting. We will tell members Natural History of Hawaii. Prospective new members then about other events that are coming up, so do join us. should contact Martin Hornby (Sec) on 01608 654356. NEW MEMBERS NEEDED We seriously need more members, so do come on May 3rd to W I Hall and get a taste of what we have to offer. We Cotswold Decorative and Fine Arts Society would love to meet you. 9th May. LECTURE - "Dickens Revisited” an illustrated talk on the life and times of Charles Dickens. The lecturer, Jane Tapley, is the special events organiser at ODDINGTON WI the Theatre Royal Bath, frequently organising book launches and interviews with authors and biographers. She lectures We are off to Friars Court for our May meeting extensively on Jane Austen, Georgian theatre and food. for a tour of the garden with owner Charles Wilmer Lectures are held at Bradwell Village Hall, Burford OX18 with supper afterwards. 4XF. They begin at 11 am (coffee and tea available from 10.15). Non-members are very welcome (suggested Let's hope the weather will be in our favour. donation £8). For further information please see our Contact Sue John 01451 830989 website www.cotswolddfas.org
64 Cantamus Shipston’s a cappella choir led by Richard Emms Cantamus expects its members to be experienced and confident sight-singers, and offers a really broad repertoire of music across different centuries and styles. It presents regular concerts in South Warwickshire and the North Cotswolds.
If you would like to explore the possibility of a concert, please get in touch with Yvonne Ridley, Cantamus’ concert manager, on 01789 269587. Currently the choir has a vacancy for tenors, and any interested tenors should contact Richard Emms, the director, at 01608 662163.
In June Cantamus will present a programme with Three’s Company, entitled “The Birds And The Bees”, as part of Shipston Proms. The concert will be in St. Edmund’s Church at 7.30.p.m. on Monday June 18th. Tickets (£8) will be available later in May from Clarke’s Electrical Shop in Shipston, from choir members, and on the door. Moreton Historical Society 36 members attended the AGM on 14th March 2012. The chairman Miss Margaret Shepard presided. The treasurer reported a small profit for the year; accordingly it was decided to leave subscriptions for this year at £5 - a bargain for eight meetings a year.
Brigadier Chris Galloway spoke on “Ditchley Park - Then and Now". This establishment is now a conference and function centre, created by the late Sir David Wills when he bought the estate in l952. It is called the Anglo/American Concept and aims to foster good relations between UK and USA. For more information about this Society ring The Secretary on 01608650349
65 66 Local Business Directory Stow Times, Moreton Times, Bourton Times and Chipping Norton Times new BUSINESS DIRECTORY. Animals & Pets House & Home DIAL-A-DOG-WASH Mobile Grooming Parlour J.BRYER CARPETS 01993 845360 / 07754 039665 Carpets supplied & fitted at below shop prices. Dog Walking/ Sitting Service Shop at Home Service. www.jbryercarpets.co.uk Telephone Carol 01451 820661 Call: 0790 9991216any time. 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No payment until your will is produced. 01608 643142 or [email protected] DDrryy SSttoonnee WWaalllllliiinngg Stow Roses – The Flower Shop 0011445511 885511992277 // 0077779922 33331122441 1 01451 832277 www.stowroses.co.uk 0011445511 885511992277 /// 0077779922 3333311224441 1 JSM BOOK KEEPING SERVICES Small business specialist, monthly accounts, VAT, Payroll, etc.. Hair & Beauty 07779 384998 / 01608 644242 BELLISSIMA BEAUTY Treatments and make-up for all occasions. 01451 810489/07780 684134 www.bellissima-beauty.co.uk Taxi/Private Hire Health & Fitness ELDRIDGE TRAVEL – PRIVATE HIRE 8-seater – 01993 822271 PHYSIOTHERAPY – Orthopaedic & sports injury specialists. Local - Long distance - Airports MCSP HPC Reg. Spinal & joint pain. Acupuncture. 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EXPERIENCED. 01451-821-626 STOW TIMES, MORETON TIMES, BOURTON TIMES & CHIPPING NORTON TIMES Tell STOW TIMES & we’ll Advertise your business tell the WHOLE COMMUNITY IN EVERY EDITION OF ALL 4 MAGAZINES Put your business into every house * in the community – FOR AS LITTLE AS £12/MONTH from Adlestrop to Bourton on the Hill, Condicote to Fulbrook, Local Business Directory Chipping Campden to Chipping Norton, Moreton in Marsh to Entries are included for a calendar year (eleven editions) and priced Naunton the Swells and Bourton on the Water, and Stow on per business. Your advert can include photos and logos as well as the Wold to the Wolfords, the Comptons and the Rissingtons. text - IT’S STRAIGHTFORWARD AND SIMPLE WE DELIVER TO OVER 11,500 LETTERBOXES SMALL BOX = 15mm high x 60mm wide(1 column) If your advertisement catches the eyes of only 1% of £12/month (by DDM) or £120 /year our readers, that is 300 people Include photos & logos as well as text All advertisements appear automatically in all 4 editions LARGE BOX = 33mm high x 60mm wide (1 column) * In most communities. For areas currently without deliverers £22/month (by DDM) or £220/year we deliver copies to key centres for personal collection. CREDIT & DEBIT CARDS ACCEPTED We are currently offering up to 20% discount for prepared FOR INFORMATION or TO BOOK YOUR ENTRY artwork and multiple bookings. 07789 175 002 or [email protected] 67 Furniture Restoration & Repair/Handyman Furniture restoration and repair. Assembling flat pack furniture. Putting up shelves, mirrors, pictures, curtain poles etc. Jonathan Ward 01608 664626 or 07557 883835 No job too small. Free quotations in the local area.
AUTHENTIC WOOD FLOORS Experts in natural wood flooring Free estimates / consultation / advice New installation, Sanding and Refinishing 07523 366945 info@authenticwoodfloors.co.uk www.authenticwoodfloors.co.uk
Tel: 01608 651721 | Mob: 07974 030246 Email: [email protected]
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