Issue 413 December 2018 Price 50p Happy Christmas From the News Team & our local posties

Our Chippy posties are gearing up for their busiest time and hope everyone will post & order online early for Christmas! Bumper Christmas issue Spot the 16

hidden camels & Churches at Christmas Your Vegan try our Have I Christmas in Chippy

got Chippy News Christmas dinner free family for You Quiz friendly Aladdin panto review event Christmas Diary, Opening Times plus all the Local News, Arts, Clubs, Sport, Schools and Letters SEASONAL INFORMATION

Season’s Greetings to all our Christmas opening times readers from the News Team Chemists: For urgent prescriptions when chemists are closed call your GP surgery for an emergency number. REMEMBER! CN Health Centre: Closed from 6.30pm (phones 6pm) on No January edition of the Chippy News Friday 24 Dec until Thursday 27 Dec at 8am (phones 8.30am). Next deadline is Friday 11 January Closed from 6.30pm (phones 6pm) Monday 31 Dec until Wednesday 2 Jan at 8am (phones 8.30am). Outside surgery opening times, call 111 for urgent but not life threatening Diary symptoms, and 999 for a life threatening emergency. Order December (News out Monday 26 November) repeat prescriptions well before Christmas. See also Church Services p15, Festive Dates p16, Christmas Hospital: (01865 903333) Open for first-aid injuries – Concerts, Exhibitions & Lectures on p20-21 normal weekday evenings 5pm-9pm, Bank Holidays (ie 25, 26 29 Nov-1Dec Methodist Christmas Tree Festival - see p16 Dec + 1 Jan) & weekends 10am-9pm. Casualty at Witney or 3rd Chippy News Team Christmas Event (& AGM!) Banbury hospitals will deal with more serious injuries. 7.30 lower Town Hall see p3 Police: The area is policed by local officers 24 hours a day. 2nd Rambling Club NB meet Winter time of 1.30pm - see p25 Banbury Police Stn is open every day except 25 Dec. In an 4th Railway Club 7.30 Lwr Town Hall - see p24 emergency ring 999. Call 101 to contact the Police for non- 5th U3A 2.30pm Methodist Hall see p26 emergency calls. North Oxon Organic Gardeners see p24 WODC One Stop Shop in the Guildhall closed from 1pm 8th Kingham Singers’ Christmas Concert - see p21 on Friday 21 Dec until 9am Weds 2 Jan. Services are available Finding your Feet 7.30pm Churchill Village Hall see p13 online 24/7 at: www.westoxon.gov.uk or call 01993 861000. 9th Christmas in Chippy Christmas Market etc noon-6pm see advert on back page for details Library: Closed Thurs & Sun as usual plus, 25 & 26 Dec + 1 WOWI’s Tea, cake & chat Methodist Hall 2-3.30pm p26 Jan. Open: Mon 24 Dec 9.30am-1pm, Fri 28th 9.30-5, Sat 29th 10th History Society 7.30 Methodist Hall Mike Heaney - 9.30-4, Mon 31st 9.30-5. Back to normal Wed 2nd Jan 9.30-4. Percy Manning The antiquary Leisure Centre: Closed 25/26 Dec & 1 Jan. Opening hrs 24 & 31 Folk Club 8pm Artyard Cafe Enstone - see p24-25 Dec 6.30am-3pm. Visit www.better.org.uk or call 644412 for other 12th Methodist Coffee Morning 9.30-11.30 Crisis at Christmas holiday opening times. CNWI 2.15pm Lower Town Hall see p24 Rubbish & Recycling Collection: When ~ Mon 24 Dec Horticultural Assoc 7.30 Methodist Hall see p28 then, Weds 2 Jan, Tues 8 Jan back to normal Mon 14 Jan. What 13th CN Probus Ladies’ Lunch see p27 ~ food caddy collections weekly; household rubbish 15th CN Farmers’ Market 8.30-1.30 fortnightly alternating with Recycling (& Green Waste 17th Amateur Astronomy Group see p25 where appropriate - - note last Green Waste collection Mon West Oxon WI 7.30 Parish Rooms see p26 st 24 Dec – service resumed 14 Jan). Collections as per the 21 LHNT Candles of Remembrance see p13 Calendar issued by WODC, call 01993 861025 or visit: January (No Chipping Norton News) www.westoxon.gov.uk 6th Rambling Club 1.30pm New St Car Park see p25 Xmas Trees etc: From 14 Jan Garden Waste customers can put WOWI’s Tea, cake & chat Methodist Hall 2-3.30pm p26 real trees & greenery (holly, ivy, wreaths) out as garden waste 8th U3A Annual Lunch see p26 inside their licensed bin. Remove pot, decorations, wire etc. 9th Methodist Coffee Morning 9.30-11.30 Church Flowers Festive food recycling (turkey bones, peelings etc) can be put 10th Amnesty 7.30pm Lower Town Hall - see p27 out in both your kitchen and outdoor food caddies. th 11 CHIPPING NORTON NEWS DEADLINE Extra recycling can be black boxes, open cardboard boxes or clear 12th The Bookshop 7.30pm Churchill Village Hall see p13 bags (but not black bags) NB glass must go in your recycling boxes. 13th Christmas Trees come down! 9am Town Hall Small electrical items can be recycled in black boxes (but not 14th History Society Members’ Afternoon Tea mixed with glass) & put textiles in a carrier bag. Folk Club 8pm Artyard Cafe Enstone - see p24-25 15th CN Probus Monthly Meeting see p27 Markets: 16th Horticultural Assoc 7.30 Methodist Hall Ian Gourlay Chipping Norton Wednesday Market: 19 & 26 Dec & 2 Jan - Organic gardening and Bridewell see p28 though not all traders may attend 17th Green Drinks 8pm Chequers Goddards Lane Farmers’ Market: 8.30-1.30 Saturday 15 Dec & 19 Jan as usual. 19th CN Farmers’ Market 8.30-1.30 21st Amateur Astronomy Group see p25 24th CN Flower Club 7pm Lower Town Hall see p27 Town Xmas trees 26th Friends of St Mary’s Church Burns Night - see p8 come down Sunday February (News out Monday 28 January) 13 January 3rd Rambling Club 1.30pm New St Car Park see p25 5th Railway Club 7.30 Lwr Town Hall - see p24 meet at the Town Hall 9am 6th U3A 2.30pm Methodist Hall see p26 & join the jolly fairy light gang North Oxon Organic Gardeners - 7.30 see p24

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Chippy News Xmas event January start for M&S? The Chipping Norton News Team wish all our readers a very The News tried to get Marks & Spencer to confirm a January Happy Christmas. Would you like to come and meet the Team start date for their new food store up the London Road, and and celebrate the end of another year of the Town’s information about car parking, but all a spokesperson for M&S community newspaper – run by volunteers since 1976? Why would say was, ‘We’re looking forward to bringing a new not come along at 7.30 on Monday 3 December to the Lower Marks & Spencer Foodhall to Chipping Norton early next Town Hall in Chipping Norton – everyone who supports the year.’ However, another store coming, Pets Corner, confirmed News is welcome – readers and contributors alike. And maybe to the News that they planned to open in January – aiming to you could see if you can help, along with the other volunteers ‘dovetail’ with M&S. Property Director Simon Forrest said who contribute in whatever way they can to produce your ‘Our store will stock our full range of natural pet food and community paper. pet accessories. We will also be installing our dog grooming The non-profit making salon Dogwood’. A Mountain Warehouse and Costa Coffee News Club ‘Team’ are also expected. includes around 20 local people who write articles or features, edit, What are Chippy’s Brexit voters do computer layouts, fill avoiding at Christmas dinner? up our 20 or so boxes, Brussels count money and proofread – or simply contribute ideas. Then Dog ban on Recreation Ground? for each issue probably In November Chipping Norton Town Council agreed to pursue another 50 local people a plan to ban dogs, whether on a lead or not, from most of the contribute with news New Street Recreation Ground to give priority to the safety articles, pictures, clubs, and health of children. The plan could see a limited area at the schools, arts, sports end of the Ground beyond the far goalpost, available for dogs. reports and letters. We Practical issues, including rights of way and enforcement, will have no professional need to be addressed. journalists and lots of the team have ‘day jobs’ We want our bus shelter! as well! And if you want Within 60 seconds of the installation Last year Chip- to try out some writing of the latest Chippy News box in the ping Norton Co-op Pharmacy, customer Joyce or computer work, the Town Council, Harrison reached for her 50p and Team helps each other. It following com- inaugurated our latest outlet. ‘I love all works only because it’ she said. ‘You get all the local there’s lots of local plaints that news. I buy it every month.’ interest in keeping the youths were Pharmacist Yasin Jussab seems community up to date gathering and equally pleased to have the honesty with what’s going on. behaving badly in box on the counter, as is Sue who There will be a a bus shelter works in the Pharmacy at whose short (15 minute) AGM along Walterbush suggestion the box has been at 7.30, to which any of Road, decided the installed. Smiles all round! our Chipping Norton solution was to News supporters are welcome, followed by some wine and remove the soft drinks for anyone present, especially all our regular shelter entirely, contributors, avid readers, and others just interested … And and it seems may of course, you would be very welcome at any of the Club’s not have con- Regular bus users at the site of the demolished bus shelter monthly meetings where we discuss news items and features sulted the public coming up. Finally – very good wishes from the Team for 2019. and regular bus users – some of whom were apparently left considerably upset. The site, where a shelter had stood for years, is high up in town, regularly lashed by wind and rain, and BBC investigates football clubs has no nearby refuge at all. Mrs Rita Heritage wrote to the Watch out in the next few weeks for the BBC programme News saying, ‘I and ten other older people want to complain Panorama. The News understands they have been investigating about the removal of the bus shelter on Walterbush Road. It’s stories about local football clubs that have been in difficulty on a very exposed spot. I got wet waiting for the Banbury bus and then have been ‘rescued’ with bailouts from companies and had to walk about wet for the rest of the day. One or ‘coming in to help’. Sounds very familiar given Chipping more rely on the bus to go into Town and wouldn’t get out Norton’s tales from the past seven years of manoeuvres at otherwise. Please complain to the Guildhall.’ Walterbush Road. It will be interesting to see what they come In November, Rita, with support from District Councillor up with – watch this space. Meanwhile there is no news made Laetisia Carter, presented a petition, signed by regular users public yet on what the current owner is planning to do with of the bus stop, to the November Town Council Meeting. Cllr the land that used to be the old football pitch. Mike Tysoe explained why, as mayor, he had led the decision

3 LOCAL NEWS to remove the shelter. However he acknowledged that a other options. This could fill an important gap in provision compromise was possible, to erect a perhaps smaller shelter. enabling independent living while still offering the availability Councillors voted to pursue this idea and to involve Rita and of care and community facilities without a prohibitive price the bus users in choosing the best design. tag.’

Try a bus stop library? Chippy Firefighters wanted With bus stops on the Chipping Norton fire station is currently looking for new agenda how about another recruits. Do readers know anyone interested? An on-call idea for Chipping Norton? firefighter is a paid, professional role and recruits receive the Nearby Chadlington’s same training as full time firefighters. They are called in, 'on website reports that a demand' two or three times a week for about an hour each new village book time, night or day. Firefighters join from all walks of life – exchange, a Parish Council homeworkers, builders, shopkeepers, parents of school-aged initiative, has been set up children and people who aren't currently employed. You need in the bus shelter opposite to be over 18, and to live or work within five minutes of a the Café de la Post. recruiting fire station and to be able to respond immediately Villagers are asked to find when called. More at www.oxfordshire.gov.uk up to three books they’d like to exchange and maybe take one away to Urgent: views on 20mph plan read and then return. The There is still time to tell Oxfordshire initial books were County Council your views on provided, and will be topped up, by Chipping Norton’s Oxfam Chippy’s proposed 20 mph speed Books and Music – but it is hoped villagers’ contributions will limits, with an extended deadline of 7 add even more variety. A local volunteer has put up shelving, December. OCC, with the Town with a notice on what it’s all about. Weather-proofing is being Council, are proposing a 20mph zone added. Chadlington Parish Councillor (and Chippy News team in the centre of Chipping Norton. member) Nicky Lloyd will be keeping the collection in order Your views are important as this with appropriate culling. One other Chad resident recently could affect pedestrian safety. You can told the News that someone had passed comment on ‘certain view the plans on OCC’s website kinds of books’ being publicly displayed around town. under ‘consultations’. The proposed Apparently one book so targeted was a racy (?) biography of limit covers all five main roads out of punk band The Clash’s Joe Strummer. Readers’ thoughts on town. The initial scheme, funded by the Town Council, covers appropriate use of Chippy’s bus shelters are welcome – only to the edge of the town centre stopping short of the assuming they haven’t been removed! narrow part of West St, and not past any of the Town’s schools: St Mary’s Primary, Holy Trinity Primary or Chipping How did Mary know baby Jesus was Norton School. Extending the scheme to such important 7lb 6oz? safety areas would require other traffic calming measures at further cost. This of course would need to be funded – the They had a weigh in a manger! Town Council could be asked to use more of its reserves – and also work with County and District to ensure that funds from new housing developments for ‘infrastructure’ (‘Section Funding for 80 extra care homes 106’ and Community Infrastructure Levy) are prioritised for Chippy’sTown and District Councillors have welcomed the this need. Because of the short notice for the consultation news that funding has been agreed to help provide 80 extra (deadline was 2 November), OCC now say they will note all care homes on land in front of the Health Centre up the views sent in by 7 December. The comments will be passed London Road. The whole scheme, on Oxfordshire County on to the Cabinet Member for Environment Decisions Council land, is intended for older people and to provide 60 meeting set for 20 December. Members of the public may also self-contained apartments available for affordable rent along apply to OCC to address that meeting. Email comments with 20 for shared ownership. Development, which already direct to [email protected] (quoting ref: has outline planning permission, will be by specialist provider CM/12.6.166) or send by post to Christian Mauz (Technical Housing and Care 21, and will receive £2.9m of funding from Officer – Traffic & Road Safety) Oxfordshire County Council, the Oxfordshire Growth Deal. West Oxfordshire District County Hall, New Road, Oxford, OX1 1ND. Tel 0345 Council is contributing additional funding of £300,000. The 3101111. The Town Council’s Traffic Advisory Committee has grant was approved by West Oxfordshire District Council’s its next meeting on 13 December where they should be given Cabinet on 17 October and is subject to the establishment of an update. a joint agreement with land owner OCC and Housing and Care21. A detailed planning application will now be submitted. Chippy District Councillor Geoff Saul told the News, ‘I Why did the skeleton miss Top welcome a scheme that offers affordable self-contained School’s Xmas disco? apartments to the less well-off elderly who might otherwise He had no body to go with be entering a residential care home just through the lack of

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British Legion committee. Chairman The Town remembers ... Steve Kingsford is pictured here after On Saturday 10 November, the British Legion Chipping also being given a gift from Legion Norton Branch held the Two Minute Silence ceremony at the members in recognition of his Town War Memorial, with Branch President Linda Maia e Silva research which had culminated in the and Father Joyce leading the ceremony with traditional poppy plaques on houses around the prayers, wreath laying, the Last Post and Reveille. Town commemorating the lives of On Sunday 11 WW1 soldiers. He has written a November, 100 book, entitled Faces Behind the years since Plaques available at West Street Armistice Day in Newsagents and the Crown & 1918, a parade Cushion. (£5 donation suggested.) through town was followed with St Marking 100 years ending WWI Mary’s Church In October, a filled to capacity for the moving Remembrance Service led by Rev’d James ceremony organised Kennedy, starting with wreath laying, the last post and two by the British Legion minutes silence. Legion Branch Chairman, Steve Kingsford, at the Town’s War gave a moving reading from letters written by a Commanding Memorial, saw Mayor Officer and a Chaplain to Gertrude, wife of 24-year-old Don Davidson, in the Arthur Withers. Included had been the lock of Arthur’s hair presence of the he had kissed before he passed away. Mortally wounded by Deputy Lieutenant of shrapnel, Arthur, (one of five brothers and four sisters at 4 Oxfordshire, unveil Worcester Road), succumbed to his injuries on 11 April 1918 new Centenary gates a month after his second son was born. For more fascinating made by Birdy and touching stories of the fallen of two World Wars in the Blacksmiths of Chipping Norton area visit www.chippingnorton Photo: Carol Peachey Brailes. The War britishlegion.com Memorial was put up in 1951. The Legion’s Steve Kingsford Mayor Don Davidson spoke of those who suffer after war. said that some were against it (a memorial already existed in Lizzie Driver from RAF Brize Norton asked, ‘What is St Mary’s Church) and by the 1970s it had fallen into disrepair Remembrance’ for the 800,000 lost in WWI and many since. and the Town Council considered demolishing it. Following Where did their strength come from? All men were given a protests from the British Legion, veterans and families of the bible with their kit – God's refuge and strength – and letters fallen, it was restored. Since then the Legion, with Town from family, wives and girlfriends to remind them of love Council support, has improved the site, funded partly by the amidst the carnage of war. Lizzie asked how should we Armed Forces Trust, adding 11 new names, installing a flag honour them now? Do we have an elderly neighbour or pole and wreath bars, planting new bushes and keeping the someone we know who is struggling? She said ‘do something area tidy. The memorial has been professionally cleaned now’ to reflect the soldiers' own sacrifice. Arianne Bennett, thanks to recent financial support from Oxfordshire County formerly of Chippy School, movingly sang Green Fields of Council’s local councillor’s fund. France based on musings by the grave of Willie McBride aged To mark the centenary, 22 town shops and businesses 19, echoing the raw horrors of war. created respectful window displays of remembrance. The The countless white crosses stand mute in the sand Mayor & Mayoress judged the competition. Results To man’s blind indifference to his fellow man announced at the Town Hall charity ‘Armed Forces’ themed To a whole generation that were butchered and damned disco on 9 November were: 1st: Coles Jewellers, 2nd: Crown & Prayers for peace and today’s rulers followed, and finally the Cushion, 3rd: Bartholomew’s, Highly Commended: West St National Anthem. At a reception in the Town Hall, hosted by News; Flowers Etc, Commended: CN Museum – and special the Town Council, Honorary Citizen John Grantham was mention for Kingham School Year 6 (Vintage Sports Club) and presented with an engraved tankard for all his work on the Town Nursery (Chalford Blinds.) The 100th man to die When unveiling the new memorial gates, the Captain J Hopkinson, from no man's land. The British Legion also remembered the 100th officer asked his own mother to send a silver Anniversary of the 100th man from Chipping cigarette case to Sergeant Aries inscribed Norton and Over Norton to die in WWI. ‘With heartfelt thanks and in remembrance of Sergeant Wallace Albin Aries served with the that day’ but he died of his wounds in a field 11th (Service) Battalion, The Royal West Surrey hospital on 10 October before it arrived. He Regiment – in Italy in 1917 then in France against was aged 27 and is buried in Les Baraques the German Offensive of Spring 1918. In Military Cemetery, Sandgatte, France. September 1918 during the Final Advance into Relatives of Wallace Aries were present at the Flanders, Sergeant Aries was wounded rescuing a service and a special wreath remembering wounded officer, his Company Commander, him was laid by Carol Kemp.

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already volunteered to help. Contact Mike on 643028 / 07774 HSBC building back on sale 758550 or email [email protected]. Have a safe winter!! The ‘for sale’ sign has gone up again on the somewhat grand but empty HSBC Bank building (18/19 Market Place) in Chipping Norton – at a guide price of £1,250,000 with Taylor How do you know if Santa's been in & Fletcher. The late 19th century property – with an your allotment shed? impressive domed banking hall – recently had planning You've got three extra hoes permission for various developments including apartments and offices – but with the intention of keeping retail use downstairs. There had been suggestions of a restaurant. But at Welcome to Toby & Emma the moment the future is again unknown. St Mary’s Church in Chippy welcomed a new Help get ready for snow! curate, Rev’d Toby Artis, in the summer. Toby told the With snow expected in December, Cllr Mike Tysoe who, as a News how he’s getting on. volunteer, chairs the Town Council’s voluntary ‘snow task ‘How the time has flown by! I moved down to Oxfordshire from Yorkshire with my wife, Emma, who works as a doctor, where I trained for three years at a theological college, in preparation for ordination as a minister in the Church of England. These past four months have been a time of settling in, getting to know people in the Church as well as the wider community, and getting stuck into life in the Cotswolds! It is an exciting time to be in Chipping Norton based at St Mary’s Church, as we continue A carpet of snow on Topside last winter to seek how best we can serve the community, as well as offering a place of sanctuary and worship for anyone who force’, sent the News an update – and information on how comes our way. So, if you see a young handsome chap (not to everyone can help. Ready for action are two towed spreaders be confused with James Kennedy, the team Rector) walking for roads (one in Diston’s Lane, the other needs a home!). the streets of Chippy in a black shirt with a dog collar, be sure More volunteers with tow bars on vehicles are needed. There to say hello. I’d love to have a passing chat and get to know are five large hand spreaders, one at the Town Hall, one at the you a little better!’ end of Insall Rd, one probably to be in Diston’s Lane. Two St Mary’s are getting ready for Christmas. For their others need volunteer homes. The team have a trailer for Christingle service, 4pm on Christmas Eve, they revisit the resupplying grit bins – 64 of them are dotted around town, nativity story and are inviting everyone to come dressed up as most refilled (any not done please contact Mike), holding 16 a stable animal, a shepherd or a wise man to enjoy the fun. Toby tons of grit. There will be backup of only 4 tons, so please use said, ‘we will be retelling the awesome story of how and why grit sparingly – more is NOT the answer – a little grit can God came to dwell on earth with his people. I look forward to go a very long way. For example, towed gritters, with 1 ton, seeing you there – and a very Merry Christmas to you all.’ can grit ALL the roads in Chippy. The volunteers will only grit side roads when there is possibility of a very heavy frost or a decent snow fall. OCC did supply more grit last year after the large December and January snowfalls, but that cannot be relied on. Please have your own snow shovels ready for action – Mike reminds everyone to please shovel snow off pavements and off roads sprinkling a little grit or salt as you go – table salt or dishwasher salt can be used very effectively. Providing you have cleared the snow sensibly (ie cleared the area and gritted/salted) you will not be prosecuted if someone slips but do not use water and don’t leave large patches of ice around. Please keep an eye open for your elderly neighbours – and shopkeepers should remember that legally you have to provide safe ingress/exit to your property so please clear the pavements – if you do it early, it does not take very long. A reminder that the volunteer team still needs shovellers and drivers (for the spreaders and trailer you need a vehicle with a tow-hook). Helping with this doesn’t take very long – the more the merrier and many thanks to the very few who have

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Yes to A361 HGV ban Something for all at Apple Day It looks like Chipping Norton may get some reduction in A lovely sunny October Sunday saw a big turnout from the HGV traffic! Oxfordshire County Council, after much delayed debate, has approved in principle a weight limit on HGVs on the A361, through Burford. The decision, on 15 November, comes over three years after Burford Town Council took the lead to propose this. So what is the impact on Chippy? One adviser says that 50% of Burford’s HGVs heading for Chippy might be stopped but OCC say the implication of where traffic goes (including using side roads) is more uncertain, and they want an 18 month ‘experimental and monitored’ trial first. Some objectors, particularly from Stow, say some traffic will go via Stow and end up in Chippy on the A44 anyway. Woodstock Town Council also objected strongly because of Town join in Apple Day at likely extra traffic. Chipping Norton Town Council originally Chipping Norton’s Community supported the whole idea – and offered to help Burford with Orchard off the Worcester Road. funding for signage which could run to £85K. Additional cost Despite there being almost no of enforcement could still be a barrier – Burford Town fruit left on the trees this year, Council is being told they may need to fund that as well – large quantities of apples were perhaps by providing funding (£48K)to use OCC Trading brought along, most for juicing and Standards. Next steps are awaited. some, both cookers and eaters, for visitors to take home. It was a great occasion to do a spot of wassailing, singing and dancing, enjoy a little live music, watch the bodger (wood turner) at work, have a good chat, just relax or hare around whooping in the case of younger guests. The usual impressive spread of refreshments was enjoyed, many made with orchard fruits, and washed down with juice from some of the many bottles filled on the day as a result of the efforts of the hardworking juicer team at and around the presses. Thanks to them, to so many more who worked to make the day a success, and also to those who dropped Chipping Norton’s bigger HGV issues still lie with the donations into the little wellies. As a result, the Orchard A44 (Oxford to Evesham) as the main route through town. Committee now has an extra £200 to invest in the continued Debate over 20+ years first saw the County Council evaluate development of your Community Orchard. a by-pass or use of the Rollright Stones route (‘too costly’). Simon Bartlett Then, in 2008, after pollution in Horsefair was declared illegal (that big black box is still there), OCC proposed a Highways What does the Queen call her project to downgrade the A44 and introduce an HGV weight Christmas Broadcast? limit. The planned project then quietly disappeared into the long grass with no action, in spite of more local campaigns and The One Show! town centre accidents. Then in 2016, a discontented Town Council announced ‘Chippy 2020’, a set of ideas including a one way system, though no progress so far. October’s Town Elves & wizards at Library Council meeting heard that some HGVs – perhaps daunted The Pop-up cinema is back at Chipping Norton Library for by increasing traffic jams in Chippy – are avoiding town Christmas 2018! We will be screening Elf as part of the anyway by using the Rollright Stones route, despite it not Christmas in Chippy day of festivities on Sunday 9 December. really being fit for regular HGV use. The HGVs also magically The event is free but please drop by the Library to pick up disappear during the Mop Fair and other town centre closure your ticket. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The festivals. The Town Council discussion was grasping for ideas film starts at 2pm. Our new Coffee Morning with Age UK will to encourage the HGVs to go elsewhere. But there are no continue on the first Wednesday of every month from 10am specific plans – so time for more campaigning, especially now to 12 noon. Join us for coffee and cake with friends both old Burford has set a precedent. and new. Sian from Age UK will be on hand to offer information and advice. Thursday 7 February will see the fifth annual Harry Potter Book Night celebrated throughout the Why is Smith’s selling fewer Advent world and here at Chipping Norton Library we’re getting calendars this year? ready to host our very own Harry Potter Night. Young Because their days are numbered! wizards, witches and muggles will be treated to an evening of games, activities and quizzes. It all begins when the Sorting Hat

7 LOCAL NEWS decides who will be in which house, and houses will be 13 residences – with fewer than 13 parking spots – at the old competing for house points throughout the evening. Why not Harpers building has now been approved after an appeal (see dress up as your favourite character? The event is free but Letters). West Oxfordshire District Council has determinedly please contact the Library to book places. Starts at 6pm. All resisted any change to their ‘free parking’ policy – and has events, sessions and library opening hours are shown on the again recently rejected a new request in Witney for residents’ Oxfordshire Libraries website. Wishing you a very Merry parking permits in difficult areas. Spring St residents in Christmas and a Happy New Year from all the staff! Chipping Norton have suggested this in the past but had it Sally Moore, Library Manager rejected. WODC councillors may find an increasing clamour for changes to policy – or to provide better and more parking for Chipping Norton. What do angry rodents send at Christmas? Brighten a January night! Cross Mouse Cards! The Friends of St Mary’s Church invite you to a fun- More parking issues in Chippy filled Burns Night on Saturday 26 January 2019 Chipping Norton’s increasing parking issues got another at 7.30pm in St Mary’s airing at October’s Town Council meeting. District Councillor Church Parish Rooms. Laetisia Carter mentioned parking issues around town – she Bring your friends (you has raised issues of parking on pavements and verges – and don’t have to have a also mentioned this time issues in Goddards Lane, Middle Scottish connection!). For Row and the current chaos at Holy Trinity School where tickets at £23 (includes a building work has caused issues for school drop off and 3-course supper) and more information, contact Kirsty collections. Town Centre parking remains an issue for many, Garrett on 07747 103749 or email [email protected]. with the main New Street car park often full early with many Jo Graves town workers and even commuters taking the bus or lifts to Oxford. Planning permissions are also being given for Big issues with 1200 new homes residential development in the town centre with insufficient West Oxford- parking for new residents. As reported last month, a plan for shire District Chippy’s expansion plan Council has now c3000 now made 1200 new homes beyond the Town’s Tank Farm its official policy (see last month’s News). As early plan- ning details +1200 emerge, some big issues will need to be addressed including detailed thinking on environment, traffic, public transport, infrastructure and public services. Some of this came to a head at a Town Hall meeting in October. WODC’s Leader James Mills was in fact speaking alongside Campaign to Protect Rural England Oxfordshire’s Helen Marshall about Oxfordshire’s longer term ‘Strategic Spatial’ planning to 2050. The CPRE is promoting its ‘golden rules’ to make sure housing, environment, employment and other needs are planned more effectively together with local people ‘in the driving seat’. But at this (poorly advertised and attended) Town Hall meeting, the questions, including from a local Chippy farmer and councillors, were much more immediate – criticising the ‘mathematical exercise’ of simply suddenly doubling our growth from 600 to 1200 new homes – with little sign of ‘local people leading’. One concern was that green space, wildlife protection and sustainability must be a top priority. Also, surely, it was better to build on ‘rubbish’ land locally, regardless of its planning designation – rather than take up even more rural green habitat. Last but not least, too many housing developments were remote from facilities and local employment with little or no public transport, forcing more

8 LOCAL NEWS car use. See the recent major report ‘Transport for New please remember you can support The Lido while you shop, Homes’ via tps.org.uk/news/transport-for-new-homes. via www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/chippylido. The News, in the New Year, will explain more about how Claire Williamson this better ‘joined up’ longer term planning for Oxfordshire should work – with more public consultation starting in Movember for healthy men! February. But also, we will report on how the more urgent The Team at Chipping Norton Health planning issues for 1200+ new homes are being addressed. Centre are supporting the Movember On all this, our children and grandchildren will be in the front line!

Carrick Travel leaves town Foundation, a charity October saw which aims to make another shop difference for men’s closure in Chipping health in prostate Norton when the cancer, testicular local branch of cancer, mental health Carrick Travel, in and suicide prevention. The team (three pictured here) are Middle Row, closed going to be growing moustaches during the month! Visit its doors. The https://uk.movember.com/ for more information about the company, founded in charity and visit the Facebook page – search CNHealthcentre 1974, is if you would like to sponsor Drs Whittle, Carr, Fisher and headquartered in Mills and Health Centre Manager Chris Bean. Coventry and has a dozen branches, and various specialist Rollright School catchment area travel sections. In The Governing Body of Great Rollright C of E Primary School early 2012, Tina Nason and Tracey Carter took over the is holding a statutory consultation on proposed changes to ownership of the company from the founders. The Chipping admissions policy – notably to enlarge their catchment area Norton branch has been operating for some years but it to include the whole Great Rollright ‘postal area’, rather than appears that they could not sustain levels of experienced staff. just the village. Children living within the catchment area get Tina Nason told the News ‘Following a series of staff changes priority. For details see www.greatrollrightprimary.com. and departures which we felt would have a negative impact on the level of customer service that we offer in the Town, Carrick Travel has, after careful consideration, decided to close our store in Chipping Norton and merge all its sales and operational activities with our nearby branch at Bourton-on- the-Water. We can assure all customers that our high level of service and expertise will continue under the management of Lisa and her team at Bourton.’ For information and customer travel enquiries contact Bourton at 01451 822048 or [email protected]. Hopefully the popular Middle Row will see its empty shop filled again soon. The property was being auctioned by Tayler & Fletcher on 21 November with a guide price of £200,000.

Who’s scary and swims in the Lido in red hat? Santa Jaws The Lido goes undercover While the pools at The Lido in Chipping Norton hide from the elements under their winter covers until they come out of hibernation next spring, work goes on behind the scenes to plan for next season. This work is carried out by volunteers from within Chippy’s community so that The Lido can be enjoyed by the wider community next summer. With this local focus, they support the Town’s own businesses and the team hope most of your Christmas shopping can be done on our own high street. However, in the knowledge that not everything is available within the Town, if shopping online

9 LOCAL NEWS

Comments welcome until 31 December. Send to WODC action comes after an unprecedented public petition [email protected]. was launched by a local resident. A petition of more than 750 signatures (this had 900) triggers a full Council debate. A full Marketing help from Cordial Fox council decision in October approved a resulting plan. Local Chipping Norton marketing company Cordial Now: bigger recycling bins Fox Ltd, operating from Anyone in Chipping Cromwell Business Park, is Norton who is finding launching some new they are filling up their products to help small blue-lidded recycling businesses. Directors Jasmin wheelie bin every Egrier & Adam Jennings fortnight, can now swap (pictured) have 40 years’ experience between them in film, to a larger recycling theatre, TV, radio, gaming, graphic design and personal wheelie bin for free. The coaching. Aimed at start-ups and small/medium-sized current standard bin is enterprises (SMEs) they have tailored various packages 240 litres, but an ranging from £550 to £1500 which have been specifically optional new larger bin, designed to enable companies to market themselves at 360 litres, offers 50% effectively without blowing their budget. These include more capacity. Cllr Steve Good, Cabinet Member for branding, print and on-screen artwork and website design. Environment (pictured) said, ‘We are responding to Since SMEs currently represent 99% of all business in the EU households that regularly have extra recycling and feel that but with over 80% of new businesses failing within 18 months their current bin is not big enough. In addition to making (according to Bloomberg) there is considerable scope for recycling easier, it will help boost our recycling rates even Cordial Fox to help out. Jasmin said, ‘The first one-and-a-half further, which is good news as West Oxfordshire is already years are tough for a new business. Our packages are one of the top districts in the country for recycling’. West designed to make things easier. Investing in your own business Oxfordshire’s recycling is collected fortnightly in the blue- and having all the tools available to communicate your lidded bin with glass collected separately in a black box, while message clearly and effectively are crucial. The Cordial Fox food waste is collected weekly. Recycling collected in the Start-Up Packages give business owners everything they need blue-lidded wheelie bins are cardboard, paper, foil, cartons, to get their message out to prospective customers and aerosols, food tins, drink cans, plastic bottles, tubs and trays. clients’. To celebrate the launch of the products, Cordial Fox The prospect of even larger wheelie bins sitting in front Limited will give away a Full Package, (worth £1500) of branding, website creation, social media setup, print design and strategic consultancy to one lucky business picked at random from the first 10 eligible companies who sign-up at www.cordialfox.com/startup.

What do you think is Aladdin’s favourite carol? O camel ye faithful! £10m for affordable homes? District Cllr Geoff Saul reported to Town Councillors last month that around £10m of capital funds should now be released by West Oxfordshire District Council to help Cottsway, who run much of our local social housing, with the building of 48 new homes in the next three years – 32 for affordable rent and 16 for shared ownership. These could be anywhere in the West Oxfordshire, not necessarily in Chipping Norton, but Cllr Saul welcomed the move saying ‘having long advocated using WODC’s reserves for the purpose of building Council or Social Housing, I am delighted that the District will now directly fund the building of additional, much needed affordable housing in the district. I will argue for the expansion of this scheme so that we can build much more affordable housing over the next few years. The public petition that many local residents will have signed was instrumental in setting the agenda that has encouraged the Council to come up with this scheme and it is a lesson in how residents can make a difference on important issues.’ The

10 LOCAL NEWS gardens and streets around Chipping Norton’s compact town centre might not appeal to some! Also, residents in properties What does Santa park outside the such as terraced cottages with very little street frontage can Old Mill? find it impossible to get bins in and out of their small homes. His Holly Davidson! Readers might note that in fact they can get a recycling bin smaller than the current normal one. Residents stuck for space can also ask WODC for special dispensation to leave Birthday for Greystones firm recycling in the old black boxes (separate from bottles). For Celebrating 20 years in business and five years in Chippy is more information and to upgrade to a bigger bin contact environmental planning and forestry consultancy Lockhart- WODC or call in to the one-stop shop in the Guildhall (open Garratt. Starting in Northamptonshire, the company weekday mornings). expanded in 2013, opening an Oxfordshire branch, initially at Cromwell Business Park. Earlier this year they moved into the 10 years of ‘Wild Thymes’ rejuvenated Greystones House on Burford Road and now On 16 December this have 36 staff across two offices. The company celebrated with highly rated Chipping a reception for staff, clients and supporters at Holdenby Norton restaurant House, an Elizabethan former royal palace in the countryside celebrates 10 years in near Northampton. The company is involved in environmental business. Partner Sally planning, forestry, tree surveys, arboriculture, tree planting or Pullen spoke about the felling, urban planning, sustainability, bat surveys and anything highs and lows of else relating to ecology. running a small business. ‘We started Wild Thyme MP’s support for veterans at the height of the Our local MP, Robert Courts, has been focusing on the recession, which hadn’t been the plan, and was probably not our Nick & Sally celebrate smartest move but a lengthy delay in planning meant that’s how it worked out. In the early years I used to half joke to people that we had moved to Chippy to live the dream and now we were living the nightmare! It’s fair to say that whilst most of the time Nick and I have loved running Wild Thyme, it has not all been sunshine and roses. We occupy a 17th century building which is charming but restrictive and brings a constant repair bill. We seem to be forever plugging water leaks, like the time a shower from a guest bedroom above the restaurant leaked during dinner service, somewhat dampening the spirits of the diners below. I’ve managed to throw a glass of ice cold dessert wine down a guest’s back (unintentionally), serve a Martini Robert pictured at the Poppy stall in Chippy Marketplace with the reverse quantities of Vermouth to Vodka to a rather famous diner and refer to a woman as “Sir”. The winter Remembrance events, particularly in this Centenary Year. He months are particularly challenging financially for us so this told the News, ‘it was heart-warming to see the many events year we hope to tempt our local diners out of hibernation across West Oxfordshire – and across the country – as our with a £10 voucher that can be collected from the restaurant nation came together to commemorate this sacrifice, and any time before the end of December. But we’ve been lucky every sacrifice that has been made in the many conflicts since’. with staff, which I know is a challenge for many small However, with West Oxfordshire the home to many service businesses, and always had a great team working alongside us. men and women, Robert said, ‘it is important that we don’t The lovely people of Chippy and the surrounding villages have forget those who have served much more recently, and those been very supportive and seem to love what we do, so all the who serve today. Issues such as veterans’ mental health, time that remains, so will Wild Thyme.’ Here’s to the next quality of Service accommodation, and support for Service decade of fine food and service. families have recently come to the fore in the media, and rightly so; raising awareness is the first step to bringing about District Councillors’ Drop-in an enduring change, and help to those who need it’. He has also been concerned with repeated historic allegations against Labour District Councillors Geoff Saul and Laetisia Carter hold drop- veterans, which he wants to stop, saying ‘I put my name to a in advice sessions from 10am to 11.30pm on the first Wednesday of letter, with 150 colleagues, to the Prime Minister on this. Our every month at The Old Mill Coffee House & Bistro at 7 West Street. veterans should know that they will not be pursued in old age, The next date is Wednesday 5 December, or you can contact us at nor be the subject of repeated prosecutions over events that [email protected] and [email protected] if occurred many years ago and have been investigated. We must you have concerns over housing, planning, recycling and refuse defend those who have defended us’. collection, parking, anti-social behaviour or any other local issues. He added, ‘I wish you, your friends and family a fantastic Geoff Saul Christmas and New Year. Do look out for others in your

11 LOCAL NEWS community in the coming months, and please don’t hesitate to into a property to restore it and simultaneously learn a contact me at [email protected] if there is ever trade. Laetisia Carter says she sees homelessness in her case anything I can do to help.’ work with local families sometimes having to be temporarily rehoused as far afield as Bristol and Tewkesbury. Similarly, Beech Haven remembers Town Councillor and former mayor Jo Graves also encounters prospective homelessness in her work with To mark 100 years since the Home Start which is a local charity that supports families end of WWI, residents at with a range of crisis issues. Beech Haven care home in Chipping Norton made two commemorative displays Think of pets at Christmas ,one being a painted canvas Supporters of the local Blue Cross animal charity helped of poppies and Flake the pet over 37,000 pets last year! Jane at Chipping Norton’s Blue dog. Residents and staff are Cross shop says the store will be full to the rafters with now preparing for Christmas with events at Beech Haven and possibly a visit from Father Christmas – they wish everyone a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year. Sandra Stowe

Who’s Santa’s favourite Town Hall everything from party wear to gravy boats, wine glasses and singer? even a cushion for that spare chair – and keep an eye out for Elf-is Presley! the Christmas jumper rail and the rolling Tombola containing generous donations from supporters in the Town. Jane and her band of volunteers wish everyone a wonderful Chippy house for homeless Christmas and sincere thanks for your support in their first At the October Chipping Norton Town Council meeting, year in Chipping Norton. They look forward to seeing you District Councillors Geoff Saul and Laetisia Carter reported in 2019. that West Oxfordshire District Council is planning to Don’t forget to try and keep your Chippy pets safe at purchase a property in Chipping Norton which they can use Christmas. The RSPCA point out that much festive food (for as emergency accommodation for people threatened with example, chocolate) can be dangerous to pets so maybe buy homelessness. This is important because WODC has a duty to some special pet treats available for Xmas. Also, some plants rehouse some of those threatened with homelessness – and flowers, including poinsettias, holly, ivy, mistletoe and lilies notably families with children, people with mental health can be toxic, so avoid these if you have pets. Tinsel and difficulties or over pension age. This often has to start with wrapping paper might be tempting for your pet to play with emergency temporary accommodation. Questions were but make sure they don’t eat it! Christmas is often busy and raised as to whether homelessness is a problem in Chippy chaotic. Help your pet cope with the chaos by keeping to and what leads to homelessness. Town Councillor Nova their normal routine, as much as possible. Bradley explained that many people can be threatened with homelessness in Chipping Norton as in other parts of the country. This is not just people who have failed to pay their What’s 007 still doing in Nash’s rent. It can be people who have been renting privately but are Bakery? having to move out, perhaps because the landlord has decided Looking for Mince Spies

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12 LOCAL NEWS

the door. More information from Jackie on 659903 or Lawrence Team at Christmas [email protected]. Christmas Cards to support Chipping Norton’s Lawrence Home Nursing Team are on sale Who was bragging with Bobby Fisher in now. A huge thank you to local the Crown & Cushion entrance? company, DustScan AQ based in Charlbury, for supporting Chess nuts boasting in an open foyer! ‘Christmas Robin’ (left) by artist Helping needy local children The team at local charity Thrive North-Ox, is working hard to support children living in desperate circumstances in our local area by providing them with basic, essential items. They say low-income families are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet and the pressure to find money to fund basic Anne Nicholls. Other things such as school uniforms, shoes, toiletries, etc is designs include ‘Brightly becoming impossible. Thrive work with primary and Shone The Moon’ (right) secondary schools via the Parent Support Advisors, Health by Anuk Naumann. All Visitors, Family Support Agencies, CAP (Christians Against the cards are available in Poverty), local Chipping Norton Church Groups as well as various outlets in and local businesses including Midcounties Co-op. They have around Chipping Norton, assisted children in the Chipping Norton area, and villages including Jaffé & Neale, such as Kingham, The Wychwoods, Charlbury, and Bippitty Boo and Midcounties Co-op. Full details at Chadlington. www.lawrencehomenursing.org. The Team would also like to Thrive told the News they have had massive support from thank the organising committee of Christmas in Chippy for local compassionate people who have helped them raise choosing LHNT to be one of their charity partners on Sunday funds. Thanks go to those who have contributed cakes for 9 December. They will be serving soup, homemade mince pies fundraising bakes and cake stalls at the Midcounties Co-op and other goodies at a pop-up café in the Lower Town Hall Community Area, Chastleton House Church Teas, or from midday until 6pm. Please do come along. The annual Churchill Village Hall pop-up café. The ‘Winterfest’ fundraisers Candles of Remembrance Service will take place on the steps have also been extremely popular and generous support has of the Town Hall on Friday 21 December from 7pm with carol singing led by the Cotswold Concertiers. Mulled wine and mince pies will be served. Our new card boxes are ready to use in your place of work or home. If you would like a card box please contact Monica Deakin on 641662. Thanks to two new outlets for displaying our collecting tubs: Porcupine and West Street Newsagents. Happy Christmas to all supporters. Verity Fifer Movies in Churchill The next ‘Screen by the Green’ movies at Churchill and Sarsden Village Hall start on Saturday 8 December with Finding Your Feet – a gem of a film starring Imelda Staunton, Timothy Spall, Joanna Lumley and the utterly fabulous Celia Imrie. The adventures in London of aging Lady Sandra Abbott (Imelda Staunton) and her friends, who become a touring dance troupe. The delightful ending ensures you leave this funny, warm-hearted film feeling good and (who knows) wanting to go dancing. Film starts at 7.30 but do come along early at 7pm to enjoy some seasonal mulled wine and mince pies. On Saturday 12 January the film is The Bookshop, an intriguing film, an adaptation of Penelope Fitzgerald’s Booker- shortlisted novel. Emily Mortimer is Florence Green, a young widow, quietly polite but heroic who comes to a remote sleepy coastal Suffolk town in the 50’s. She buys a dilapidated property there and with quiet enterprise converts it into a bookshop, the first such shop in the town. Adventures include intrigues in a town in the midst of Britain’s post-war conflict of generation and class. Bill Nighy and Patricia Clarkson co- star. A film to savour. All films start at 7.30, tickets £5 pay on

13 LOCAL NEWS

Why doesn’t Fibreworks in Middle Row Youth Club’s cracking bingo sell Christmas trees? Over Norton Village Hall hosted another cracking Bingo night Claire doesn’t like dropping needles! also come from over 15 local businesses and from amazing personal donations. Thrive helps provide essential new school uniforms, winter coats, shoes, toiletries, carpets for bare floors, food for school breakfast clubs, and helped finance the renovation of a school nurture room – put into use with astonishing results. Fundraising in December includes the the Wychwood Chorale Christmas concert (Saturday 15 December at All Saints Church, Churchill, 7.30), and at Christmas in Chippy on Sunday 9 December, selling St Eval Candles, The Archivist matches, Cadenza ponchos and wraps Photo: Cleo Yates from Italy, festive sparkly lights, hand-knitted woollen mittens on 9 November raising over £800 for the Over Norton Youth and other fun gift ideas. For more information see Club funds. The place was packed to the rafters (see picture) www.thrive-northox.co.uk. and the top prize was a family pass to the Cotswold Wildlife Park. Chairman Mark Cooper also wanted to thank all local Have a honey Christmas Chippy businesses who donated prizes, too many to mention How about an here but who can be found on the ONYC Facebook page. He upmarket Christ- would also like to thank everyone who supported the event mas present idea and all volunteers who helped out on the night which was a for Chippy sup- great success all round. porters of Helen & Douglas House? Fortnum Why did the turkey join Top School’s & Mason are once band? again selling ‘The To play the drumsticks! Duchess of Corn- wall Honey’ in aid of the Hospice with all proceeds going to the charity. Produced by bees housed in Duchess’s private garden, the bright amber honey is light and delicate with an irresistible sweet caramel flavour. Perfect spread on toast or drizzled over porridge. The limited edition jars make ideal presents at this time of year. The Duchess, a Patron of Helen & Douglas since 2007, invites some of the Hospice children and their families to help her decorate the tree at Clarence House every Christmas. Last year, brave youngster Anthony Brine, aged 6, from Bicester, (pictured above with the Duchess) who suffers from a painful genetic condition called recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, helped the Duchess decorate the tree. You can continue to support Helen & Douglas House by joining the Santa Run on 9 December, or donating any unwanted Christmas presents. Watch out for the December sales. Contact Fortnum & Mason in Piccadilly at www.fortnumandmason.com to help raise money. Chippy Xmas purse thefts Local police are warning everyone after at least two recent purse thefts in Chipping Norton. The most frequent kind of purse theft is ‘handbag dipping’, where offenders remove purses from handbags left unzipped or unattended. You can ask your local Neighbourhood Police Team for a Purse Bell – which is discreet but highly effective when clipped to the zip on your purse. If someone tries to dip into your handbag the twin bells will jingle to avert any potential theft. The bells can also be used to protect bags, wallets or any other valuable items.

14 CHURCHES AT CHRISTMAS

Baptist Church Sunday 23 December 4pm - Carol Service & refreshments Christmas Day 10am - Christmas Service The Churches in Chipping Norton wish you a

Community Church HAPPY CHRISTMAS Sunday 16 December and welcome you to their services of worship 10.30am - All Age Carol Service at Glyme Hall Christmas is a time of year which means so many different things to Sunday 30 December different people. For many it’s a fun winter celebration spent with 10.30am - All age Christmas Fun at Glyme Hall family and friends, with good food, booze and fun. For those less fortunate with difficult families, or perhaps no family, it can be an extremely lonely and heart-aching time. And for others, there is a Holy Trinity Church (Roman Catholic) religious element to it. The story of Mary and Joseph riding on a Christmas Eve donkey from Nazareth to Bethlehem giving birth to a son at a stable 6pm - Vigil Mass for Christmas 11pm - Christmas Carols with animals, shepherds and wise men, is a fun tradition to celebrate 11.30pm - Christmas Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. Christmas Day 11am - Mass But how does the Christmas tradition really resonate with our lives in (Confessions by request) a meaningful way? What about the rest of the year? How does the Christmas Story fit into that? The big questions of life: What am I Methodist Church doing here? What is my purpose? Who really am I? What is real love? Sunday 16 December are all questions that we come up against at some point. Some may 11am - Junior Church Christmas ponder them regularly, some may be too busy and distracted by other celebration things to reflect. Nonetheless, they remain poignant questions. Sunday 23 December 4pm - Carols by Candlelight followed by At the heart of the nativity story lies a concrete reality to makes sense mince pies of these questions. Jesus, more than just a Christmas baby, is the full Christmas Day 10am - Family Worship revelation of God on earth. God is no longer a vague spiritual force. God has come to earth sharing in humanity with us. He comes in the dirt, in the very normal aspects of life. Why? Because, this same God St Mary’s Church (Anglican) who created the universe and us in our innermost being, longs to be at Sunday 16 December one with us. His unconditional love, has motivated him to humble 6pm - Carols by Candlelight followed by mulled wine & mince pies himself in being born as a human baby. God, in Jesus Christ, calls us to be in perfect relationship with him. That is why we were created and Christmas Eve 4pm - Christingle Service where we can find true identity. Now it’s up to us to respond to this 11.30pm - Midnight Communion incredible initiative God has taken… Christmas Day 8am - Holy Communion Rev’d Toby Artis 10.45am - Family Celebration St Mary’s Church St James’ Chapel Chipping Norton Over Norton (Anglican) Sunday 16 December 9.15am - Carol Service

15 WHAT’S ON AT CHRISTMAS Christmas Tree Festival unusual gifts and jewellery, homemade soup or hot dogs for lunch, tea and cakes in the afternoon in Church House, and Thursday 29 Nov-Sunday 2 December – In Chipping mulled wine and mince pies in the Church. Santa’s grotto from Norton Methodist Church, the popular display of themed 11am-1pm and 2-4pm. For more see www.adderbury.org. decorated trees. Tea, coffee & lunches, cakes, crafts and preserves. Thurs 6-8pm, Fri 2-8pm, Sat 10am-8pm, Sun 2-5pm. Great Rollright quiz night! Proceeds to CN and Stow Methodist circuit. Saturday 1 December Following on from the last Community Xmas Coffee morning successful evening Great Rollright WI will host their 3rd charity quiz night at 7.30pm. £5 per head, maximum of 6 per Friday 7 December 10.30-noon Community coffee team, bring your own drinks and nibbles. Join in the fun and morning at Highlands Day Centre sees St Mary’s School choir competitive spirit and raise as much as you can for The singing favourite songs. For more information please contact Lawrence Home Nursing Team. To enter call Marilina 730001 the School or Joyce at Highlands. Christmas Shopping Fayre Santa Fun Run Sunday 2 December Join the Santa Fun Run for Katharine Friday 7 November at Chipping Norton School 5.30-8pm, House Hospice 10am at Wykham Park Academy in Banbury. £3 entrance includes mulled wine and mince pie. Home 5km or 1km route. Music, refreshments, children's activities, produce, toys, handicrafts, raffle, tombola, refreshments and Santa's grotto. Ticket covers costs, a Santa suit & medal. School choir singing. Proceeds for the PTA. www.khh.org.uk Christmas in Chippy 2018 Lights of Love service Sunday 9 December The fabulous Christmas market is Thursday 6 December a service at St Mary’s Church back, but this year will be a Sunday daytime affair from 12- Banbury at 7pm to remember loved ones no longer with us. 6pm. There will be stalls selling local arts, crafts and food, and Dedicate a light on the Christmas tree and leave a fabulous street food, music, a children’s funfair and lots of handwritten message in remembrance details activities involving as much of the Chipping Norton www.khh.org.uk/lights community as possible. Elf , the movie, showing at the Library at 2pm. See Facebook page or Instagram @Christmasinchippy for more information. Chadlington Carols On The Stocks Friday 7 December 6.30pm, Come and join the festive sing Candles of Remembrance song – opposite Café de la Post. Carols and Christmas songs, Friday 21 December The Lawrence Home Nursing Team steaming hot dogs and mulled wine, and the lighting of the annual Remembrance Service will take place on the steps of Chadlington Christmas Tree! Free entry – bring a torch! the Town Hall from 7pm with carol singing led by the Cotswold Concertiers. Mulled wine and mince pies see p13) Great Rollright Xmas Bingo Friday 14 December A Christmas bingo evening – come in Fairytale Farm Christmas magic Xmas themed dress; there’s an extra special prize raffle – Saturdays & Sundays 1 to 23 December & Christmas Eve. bring a group and have a laugh. Games run from 7.30pm to Fairytale castle, a journey to the North Pole, dancing penguins 9.15ish. Bar, refreshments, and real cash prizes. Non profit- and Santa's sleigh, plus Santa in his Grotto, Christmas cookie making – all proceeds go towards the Village Hall, Primary decorating, a festive-themed hunt, mulled wine and mince pies. School and Parish Church development. Doors open 7pm. Beanstalk Café. Animal areas and adventure playground open Next date 25 January. Email [email protected] for details. till dusk. Tickets online – see www.fairytalefarm.co.uk Kingham Christmas Bingo Great Rollright Market Wednesday 19 December Kingham All Blacks Football Saturday 1 December 9.30-12.30 in Village Hall. Club is holding a Christmas Bingo & Raffle evening at Kingham Seasonal market. Beautiful crafts, funky handmade jewellery, Village Hall. Doors open 6.45pm, eyes down at 7.30. unusual and tasty preserves, handmade children’s clothing, Christmas wreaths & decorations, and more – enjoy coffee, Santa at Daylesford Farmshop tea, bakes, delicious bacon rolls. No January market! See you 1,8,15 and 22 December plus Xmas Eve Santa will be in on 2 Feb. See facebook.com/GreatRollrightVillageMarket or the Glasshouse 9-11am, free, no booking, first come first contact Heather 730154 or Brenda 738374. served … and reindeers Dancer and Blitzen will be with him on 1st and 15th! Ramsden Christmas Market Saturday 1 December 1-4pm the biggest covered Blenheim at Christmas Christmas Market in West Oxfordshire – over 50 stalls selling Until Jan Illuminated Christmas Lights Trail through festive artisan food, hand-made clothing and gifts, cushions, scarves, gardens, a new Field of Light, Fire Garden, Singing Trees, Santa wreaths, Christmas decorations & much more. Father and elves and more. Cinderella Fairy Tale Experience (to 6 Christmas, Carol Singing - details www.ramsdenvillage.co.uk Jan) – explore the palace state rooms as this fantasy world. Christmas Market in Great Hall (to 16 December). More at Adderbury Christmas Market www.blenheimpalace.com Saturday 1 December 11am-4pm Traditional Christmas See also Arts (p20-21) for concerts etc and (p15) for market at St Mary’s Church. Cards and crafts, perfumes, Chipping Norton Churches service details

16 TRY A VEGAN CHRISTMAS ! Recently the percentage of people in the UK choosing a meat-free or vegan diet has risen to about 5%, or nearly 4 million. In years gone by it often seemed a boring and tasteless option but, as the media and supermarkets have realised, this is certainly no longer the case. The News Team’s Judy Buckingham has some suggestions.

Vegan cuisine is more varied and tasty because of the visitors this Christmas or maybe you just fancy a change, huge range of substitutes and ingredients now available why not try some meat-free alternatives? And ingenious – we can use olive, sunflower and rapeseed oil for vegans don’t need to miss out on all the traditional fare cooking, vegetable based spreads for sandwiches and – even mincemeat can be made with vegetable suet – baking plus an enormous range of dairy substitutes. though pigs in blankets might be a big ask!! Look Even non-vegan cooks are embracing the healthy use of the online, in supermarket magazines and the library and huge variety of fruit and vegetables, seeds and pulses you will find lots of interesting new recipes. Here are available from all over the world. So if you have vegan my suggestions for Seasonal Vegan Festive lunch.

My starters ... My main course ... would be simple and might will be a spinach and pine nut wreath. Pears poached include bruschetta, toasted bite You will find nearly all readymade in cider – size pieces of French bread, pastry (eg Jus-Rol) is vegan. So just with or drizzled with olive oil and topped roll out a square, take a mixture of without an with artichoke hearts (from a lightly steamed chopped spinach, appley top- jar), sundried tomatoes, slices of chopped tofu, some dill, cranberries up! roast peppers and aubergines. and sour cherries, pine nuts and garlic. Make a rough paste of all the ingredients and place on one end of your pastry square. Gently roll up as & for a lighter pudding ... you would a Swiss roll. Seal the edges try pears poached in cider with a with soya milk. Leave to chill for 20 little brown sugar, cloves and minutes, then brush with a little olive cinnamon. There is vegan cream and oil and soya milk and bake in the yoghurt to be found on the dairy oven at 200c for 40 minutes. shelves. Or if you are really missing Decorate with cranberries and dill. To your mince pies, why not put plenty Roast peppers and aubergines – a go with this, how about some roast of apples in with the mix too. delicious combination! parsnip chips and spicy red cabbage? Bon appétit!

THE CHRISTMAS QUIZ Have I got Chippy News for you Have you read the News over the last 12 months? Try this test. 1 What’s going on in a £25,000 Shepherd’s Hut in Dean? 2 How much do Chippy garden waste bins cost annually from WODC? 3 Which Chippy solicitor both launched and closed in 2018? 4 Which coffee shop is planned next to the new M&S foodstore? 5 Who was Chippy’s new ‘Pentelow Gardens’ named after? 6 Roughly how many members of the public came to April’s Annual Town Meeting? 7 Which yummy Middle Row business won a ‘new business WOBA’? 8 What (nearest 5mph) is the land speed record for the world’s fastest shed? 9 Who is remembered with a new bench under a chestnut tree? 10 What is the name of Top School’s new Head? 11 Who first met at Squirrel Cottage in Kingham in 1960? 12 What was Countryfile’s Adam Henson’s dog Eddy pictured doing in September? 13 Why did readers drink a toast to the well known Chippy rogue (pictured left) this year? 14 Which town pioneered the potential solution to the dog-poo problem (pictured right) on Chippy’s Recreation Ground? Answers on page 12

17 AN EXPERIENC Stuck for something A TOUR FOR A TIPPLE Children love to receive presents at Christm The Cotswold Distillery in Stourton village not tree and anticipation of what Santa will brin far from material possessions diminishes and an even Whichford friends that they might like or haven’t already does daily tours and year, something exciting or different to do. The tastings of whisky and gin. and about to see what is on offer in and ar Set in five acres of beautiful suggestions. All these places offer vouc Cotswold countryside the distillery has a tasting room, shop and extended visitor facilities opening in the DRIVE YOUR OWN TRAIN New Year.

If beer is the preferred tipple, then head to Hook Norton Brewery where daily tours take place and there is an extensive shop and excellent restaurant and museum. All the brewery tours end with a generous tasting and there is a chance to meet the shire horses that still deliver the casks to local hostelries. Beer has been made here since 1849 purchased just for rides on the tr and the Victorian brewery complete with (pictured) says it is a great day o its steam engine will appeal to history further afield the Severn Valley Railw lovers and real ale enthusiasts alike.

ANIMAL ADVENTURES TREASURES OF THE TRUS More adventurous experiences are Lastly, ideas for available but they tend to be quite people who like expensive. Amongst various options, The exploring the Cotswold Wildlife Park offers the chance country, be they to be a zoo keeper for the day. Daniel, families or retired pictured, received this gift for his 30th relations with time birthday and says it is the best day out on their hands. A he has ever had. Starting early in the year’s membership morning you meet your first keeper then of the National throughout the day are passed from Trust enables the keeper to keeper to experience animals holder to make as from snakes to lions and penguins to many visits as they want throughout monkeys. It is very hands on – you can NT sites on our doorstep it is a good feed all the animals, learn all about them and also get to have lunch Hidcote, Stowe landscape gardens a with the keepers. Educational as well as a thrilling experience. and there are hundreds to choose f Likewise Crocodiles of the World For recipients who are more house near Brize Norton offers a similar subscription to a magazine such day being a crocodile keeper but I Geographic or Homes and Gardens am not sure how ‘hands-on’ this forward to dropping through their let experience is! They do, however, have other animals including meerkats, otters, snakes and skunks which might be a bit more ‘user friendly’!

18 NCE FOR CHRISTMAS hing to give? Try this Christmas time - the thrill of parcels under the TEA AND TOWN DINING will bring. As we get older the desire for more A wonderful gift for Mums, Grannies and even bigger problem is what to buy family and Aunties is a luxurious afternoon tea. lready got! So why not give an ‘experience’ this Heythrop Park Resort offer this in their do. The News Team’s Sue Hadland has been out sumptuous Wedgwood Room and our very own and around Chipping Norton. Here are some Chipping Norton Tea Set do delicious r vouchers for you to purchase as gifts. afternoon tea both in Chippy and their other restaurant in Broadway. A very special experience is to visit a Country House Hotel which specialises in teas and Charingworth RAIN Manor near Chipping Campden is an excellent Another experience for ‘the example. A beautiful manor house with boys’, (gender neutral!), is elegant lounges and as you can see from to visit the Gloucestershire the picture and Warwick Steam Railway on the right and spend a day a truly superb experiencing train driving on afternoon tea both steam and diesel experience. trains. It is based at For other ‘foodies’ why not give them a Toddington about 20 miles voucher to dine out? Whistlers offer away, so is easily reached. gift tokens for meals (sample dessert Equally, vouchers can be pictured left) as does Wild Thyme, the trains. Nigel from the News Team both excellent local restaurants with a t day out and if you want to branch wide range of delicious options. ey Railway offers the same deals.

TRUST

PAMPERING PLEASURES Now, how about some pampering? Heythrop Park Resort Spa offers a range of packages. The facilities include a 20m heated pool, steam room, sauna and three luxurious treatment rooms. They offer a variety of spa days from a sample spa day to an ultimate one including three ughout the year. With so many local treatments, a lunch box and prosecco. a good place to start. Chastleton, All beauty treatments are also available either individually or in a dens and Upton House are all close package. The Cotswolds Hotel and Spa also offers a range of hoose from throughout the country. treatments including facials, body treats housebound why not give them a and spa rituals but do not offer spa days. such as Country Life, National In Middle Row, Chipping Norton is Hidden dens so they have something to look Beauty, an attractive and welcoming salon heir letter box each month. offering a wide range of FACIALS, beauty and pamper packages. From stunning nails to lush lashes and eyes – it’s all here! They can look after you from top to tail and leave you feeling like a new woman. Any girl would enjoy a visit here.

19 THE ARTS

The Theatre Art Exhibitions & Lectures The Christmas Museum of Oxfordshire 5 December, Oxford Archaeology Panto Aladdin is with Wendy Morrison. Beacons of the past, examining hillforts – back at Chipping The Chiltern Hill Fort Project. 9 January, Twenty centuries of Norton Theatre – decorative glass by John Banbury, Honorary Townsmen of with goodies, Woodstock. Both lectures start at 7.30pm, tickets £4 baddies, amazing sets, songs, sweets and the wonderful www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/oxfordshiremuseum Pippins. See back page for that camel, spotted on Topside, and The Arts Society Cotswolds 12 December, The Christmas our review. Book now! Box Office on 642350. Story in Medieval English Art with Tim Porter. Exploration of Friends’ Literary Lunch Over 100 people bought tickets fascinating re-interpretations of the Nativity seen in medieval for the churches as customs alter and doctrines evolve. Putting these literary lunch into context through English Art for a thoughtful celebration in the Town of Christmas. 9 January, Cover Design: 90 Years of Excellence Hall in with Toby Faber, grandson of the founder of Faber & Faber, October, org- one of London’s most important literary publishing houses. anised by He will give personal insights and anecdotes, while Friends of the introducing us to the celebrated artists associated with the Theatre. The designs. Lectures begin 11am at Warwick Hall, Church Green, guest writer Burford. Non-members welcome (suggested donation £10) was Rosamund Young, whose book The Secret Life of Cows www.theartssocietycotswolds.org.uk we reviewed last year. A delicious first course of beef from The Owen Mumford Gallery at Chipping Norton Rosamund’s own herd was followed by the lightest of light Theatre Jools Woodhouse, an artist in the Creative Pavlovas, all served with amazing speed by the volunteer Coverage Art Exhibition at ushers and Friends pictured above. Helen Datson, Head of Theatre Fundraising, gently persuaded people to part with The Theatre, now lives in money for the raffle, and Val Clark, Friends Events Committee Lyme Regis but spent her Chair, introduced Rosamund who gave a highly amusing and youth in Chippy from informative talk about her life – ending, of course, with a 1976-1983; her parents queue to buy signed copies of her wonderful book. Available Danny & Mary Robinson at Jaffé & Neale. owned Key Antiques on Horsefair. Known then as New on the Screen Existing December screenings include Julie Robinson, she left Antony and Cleopatra, Christmas Carol and Bohemian Top School for Art Rhapsody plus the latest Fantastic Beasts (the Crimes of College to study graphic design. Her work is a stylised take on Grindelwald), but the Box Office is now booking for the the local landscape she now calls home. She has exhibited New Year: Mary Poppins Returns (yes the sequel!), The widely and now runs painting classes from her studio. Pictured Tragedy of Richard II from the Almeida, The Favourite recently at The Theatre, Jools said, ‘It was a lovely surprise to about Queen Anne, and Mary Queen of Scots. be invited to take part in this exhibition and I’m going to 200 Club draw Mrs Gwynn is the winner of The Theatre’s spend a few days catching up with old friends, remembering November 200 Club draw. For a chance to win £50 a month the fun I had when I was young. It was a wonderful place to call in the Box Office and pick up a leaflet. All proceeds grow up’. The exhibition runs 14 November to 14 January, support the work of The Theatre (reg charity no 268154). open throughout Panto time. See www.joolswoodhouse.com The Shrubbery Studio Artist Anuk Naumann will be joined in her studio for a festive Christmas exhibition by artists producing a range of beautiful work: Anuk Naumann: paintings and new stained glass, cards; Ailsa Naumann: photography; Tina Burnett: textile pictures and small treasures, cards; Sarah Grinsted: handmade original cards. Weekends 1-2 and 8-9 December 10am to 4pm. Enjoy a glass of mulled wine and a special recipe mince pie. The Shrubbery, Fantastic books Great Rollright OX7 5RG. www.anuknaumann.co.uk The Oxfordshire Craft Guild Selling exhibition at for the festive season Oxfordshire Museum, Woodstock. Over 30 of the County’s leading contemporary craft designers and makers. Until 30 Happy Christmas December. 10am-4.30pm Tues-Sat & 2-4.30pm on Sundays. Number 14 Gallery 14 Market Place, Woodstock, A Journey in Colour: landscapes by Brooklyn-based Scottish painter 1 Middle Row, Chipping Norton Catriona Herd. 15-22 December (Thur-Sat 10am-7pm & Sun 01608 641033 [email protected] -Wed 10am-6pm).Opening Reception 4-7pm on 15 December. Details via catrionaherd.com.

20 THE ARTS

CRAG Sunday Tea Concert Sunday 6 January. An evocative

Concerts Twelfth Night event with Brian Boothby, reading poems and Adderbury Ensemble CN Town Hall, 7.30 Thurs 6 Dec. stories, playing guitar and pipes and singing original songs. A Vaughan Williams String Quintet; Mozart String Quintet in C true midwinter celebration, ending as the light fades. 3-4pm minor; Brahms String Quintet no.2 in G major. Tickets £15 Charlbury Memorial Hall. Tickets £12 (or £5 up to 16) inc tea students £5 (u16s free) from Jaffé & Neale or on the door. & homemade cake, via [email protected]. Kingham Singers Christmas Concert ‘Here we come a- Carolling’ 7.30pm 8 December at Kingham Primary School. Festival dates Enjoy Christmas songs and light hearted readings. Proceeds to 107th Chipping Norton Music Festival charity. Refreshments. Tickets £6 from 658647. Friday 8-Sunday 24 March. Syllabus Chipping Norton Choral Society with Cheltenham available at the Library & Jaffé & Neale, Chamber Orchestra, perform Elgar's The Music Makers and closing date for entries is Friday 18 January. Vaughan Williams's Dona Nobis Pacem at St Mary's Church, More next month & at www.cnmf.org.uk Banbury. Saturday 15 December at 7.30pm. Tickets £15, from ChipLitFest 2019 25-28 April. The Short Story Competition [email protected], Jaffé & Neale, or on the door. is now open! Entry fee: £5 for stories up to 2,500 words. £8 Wychwood Chorale Seasonal choral music. All Saints for stories up to 5,000 words. Deadline: Thursday 7 February Church, Churchill, Saturday 15 Dec, 7.30pm. Free: donations 2019. First Prize: £500. Second Prize: £100. Third Prize: £50. to the Church & Thrive, supporting children of N Oxfordshire. Further details/rules at www.chiplitfest.com. Give a book for Christmas & go local! Why not buy a special present and support a local writer? Here is an eclectic selection of books just published by authors all living near to Chipping Norton.

Peter Buckman A Genial Senior's nearby asylum; finally wandering the fields and streets of Companion to Ageing While there Auvers. Wherever he lived he drew and painted. This book are endless books on being young, asks: why was he there? what and who else were there? how there are precious few on how to did his vision suit the place – or vice versa? With illustrations embrace the ageing process. A is for and quotation from his letters. Signed copies at Jaffé & Neale. age, ailments and ambition; L for lists, Teresa Heapy (words) & Sue loneliness and luck; T is for technology Heap (pictures) Ten Cars and a and tolerance. Growing older inevitably Million Stars From the bestselling brings new challenges. Peter’s book can team behind the Very Little series, a help anyone face their later years with witty counting book for children a refreshing, reassuring and humorous learning their numbers.With a approach. Available at Jaffé & Neale. charming twist at the end, Teresa’s James Chilton A Ragbag of Riches After hearing a joke, a gentle story is the perfect match for pithy turn-of-phrase or beautiful sentiment, we wish we’d Sue's bright, child-friendly pictures. made a note of it. Over many years, James has done just that. Signed copies at Jaffé & Neale. Drawing from politicians, scholars, artists and thinkers from Paul Fischer Let the Wood Speak paints a fascinating antiquity to the contemporary, with sparkling illustrations picture of a lifetime of commitment and creativity. After 60 from cartoonist, Kathryn Lamb, each anecdote showcases years as a luthier Paul has had well over 1000 finely crafted humanity's varieties. Available at Jaffé & Neale. instruments distributed worldwide. He has travelled the David Nickson The Cotswolds Bestiary of Mythical, world lecturing and giving master classes. We follow Paul from Fictional and Extinct his early years in Oxford, to military service during the Cold Creatures Volume 1 War, and more recently the making of his 1200th guitar in ably abetted by fellow Chipping Norton. From amazon.co.uk. Chequers drinker G P Jan Harvey The Slow Death of Bolton, David writes a Maxwell Carrick Described as, humorous, eminently ‘An emotional and beautifully told affordable and con- story of treachery and deceit’, Jan’s veniently small volume second novel is based in her own of birds and beasties village which lies between Chipping illustrated using art- Norton and Burford and also in work of an untalented, freely imbibing, apocryphal mother and Paris after the 1945 liberation. She daughter. Who could fail to feel sorry for lovelorn Dung Owl revisits the social history of WW2 (Tyto Merda) or be charmed by Ascending Lark (Ludo linking the story of troubled Arvensis)? Most of you? Still worth a go! From amazon.co.uk Maxwell Carrick to a modern day Juliet Heslewood Van Gogh A Life in Places During his protagonist. Signed copies available life Van Gogh moved from Ramsgate and London to from www.janharveyauthor.com Montmartre; from that yellow house in Arles to hospital and and local bookshops.

21 SPORTS NEWS

Town Sports Awards Witney Angels update Look out in December for details for the 2019 Alongside Chipping Norton Rugby Club’s success this season, Town Sports Awards – there will be an Chippy’s nearest women’s team, the Witney Angels, is looking information stall at the Christmas in Chippy for recruits. Bravely taking on strong teams from across the event on the 9th plus more info via south east, even if short of players sometimes, the Angels www.chippingnortontowncouncil.co.uk, on epitomise the core values of rugby: Discipline and Facebook, Twitter, Town notice boards or Sportsmanship, Respect for each other and our opponents, and from the Council offices in the Guildhall. Please most importantly, Teamwork and Enjoyment of the game. call the latter (642341) to get a nomination form. Forms will One new player said be also sent to schools and clubs. The awards celebrate it’s ‘the friendliest achievement in 2018 and the deadline for nominations will be team I’ve ever played early January! The judging panel will then meet to pick the in’. It would be great finalists. As it is the 10th Town Sports Awards, the Council is to see the team grow hoping to invite all previous award winners to the with sufficient Presentation Night on Friday 8 February – previous winners numbers to convert should contact the Council to receive an invitation. sheer heart, courage Nominations are invited for the following awards: and passion into Sportspersons of the Year for ages 18+; 11-17; U11 increased success. Team Awards for ages 18+; 11-17; U11 Everyone aged 18 upwards is welcome to come and Club Awards for ages 18+; for the Junior Section of a experience the great game of rugby in a friendly and fun club/school 11-17; U11 environment, whether you’ve played before or not. Do come Olympic Legacy Award Gold, Silver and Bronze Medal for and join in with training or come to watch a match first. coaches or those who assist people to play a sport. Training is on Wednesdays from 7pm and we play on Sunday Graham Beacham afternoons. Further details via facebook/witneyangelsnews, twitter/@WitneyAngels, Instagram/witney_angels_rfc Chipping Norton Rugby Club Claire Williamson The Rugby Club has had a fantastic start to the season and, Football after some investment in the pitches and facilities last year, Chippy Swifts continue to impress in all age groups. 96 registered players are enjoying their football each weekend and despite the cooler weather, spirits remain high with winning performances throughout. Our impressive U15s have won every game this season, a remarkable achievement. Every November, Chippy Swifts remember those who gave their plus wonderful new sponsors, the Club is really moving lives in battle so that we are able to freely enjoy our football. forward. Club Chairman, Patrick Neale, and the Committee, All of our children keenly observe a minute’s silence before along with a strong volunteer coaching squad, have driven games. Pictured above is one of our U10 teams, respectfully success across age groups led by our, as yet, undefeated 1st wearing their poppies. You can keep up to date with fixtures XV who have played outstandingly at home and away this and results on our website www.chippyswifts.co.uk or season under Head Coach, Mark Clarke. With around 200 mini and junior players coming up through the ranks from U6 onwards there is a tremendously bright future, a future that has been recognised and supported by a first mini/junior section club sponsor, through a link up with our local Penhurst Gardens Care Home. Our U13s (pictured) thanked them in the best way possible, by winning the first match played in the new sponsored shirts! Our seniors play on Saturday afternoons, so come along to our friendly clubhouse and support their successful season or to find out more about training and playing for the 1st, 2nd XV and Colts. Minis and Juniors from U6 to U15 train and play on Sunday mornings from 10am. To find out more just come along, visit our website at http://chippingnorton.rfu.club or email [email protected] Graeme Williamson

22 SPORTS NEWS follow us on facebook (Chipping Norton Swifts FC) CN Cricket Club Martyn Walsh The 2018 Season just gets better and better! In the past the Chipping Norton Football Club: a disappointing Club has often October for the Magpies with defeats to Kingham (5-2) and just missed out Eynsham (2-0) in the Fred Ford and Junior Shield respectively. on winning Both teams are in leagues above and whilst Chippy acquitted awards. How- themselves reasonably well against Eynsham, a weakened ever since the team was deservedly beaten by Kingham. The league form end of the hasn’t been much better with defeats against Tower Hill season, the and Carterton completing a sorry month. That said there Club has have been signs of improvement in various areas and if the picked up a same team could be fielded week in week out, the number of inconsistency that has plagued the team would lessen and awards. As well results surely improve. As always, anyone wanting to get as winning the Division Two Trophy (the team is pictured involved with the Club from a playing and/or committee above wearing their new Club ties at the Awards Ceremony), perspective should contact Dominic Rickard on 643280. the Club has won the Morris Honey Dominic Rickard Award for the Best Ground in 2018, for the Oxfordshire Cricket Association. 4 Shires Swimming Club Congratulations to Twelve swimmers attended a groundsman Mick Gloucester L2 meet in October and Widdows (pictured had some amazing swims. Jo Barnard, right), who is helped age 10, (pictured left) managed five by Michael Tompkins first places. His sister Annabel, age 9, on the outfield. At the Oxfordshire Cricket Performance Award Ceremony, the Club’s also had a great meet, with four pbs. Lottie Oxton (pictured left) was named Another great performance came County U15 Girl Player of the Year. Lottie from Matthew Edmonds, age 13, has played for the Club, helps coaching the youngsters and (pictured below) who also knocked plays for both Charlbury Ladies and Oxfordshire. over 11 The Club’s AGM is on 3 December 7.30pm at the seconds off clubhouse, and indoor nets start in February in Charlbury. his 200m free and had pbs in all Graham Beacham other swims. Both boys were named swimmers of the meet. Over the next few weeks swimmers will be trying hard to K J Millard Ltd obtain county times before the closing date in early December. None of these meets would be Skip possible without our coaches, team managers and officials. The Club has a growing reputation for going above and beyond in with supplying officials for galas. This is important because swimming is so popular that galas are often oversubscribed us but 4SSC is generally able to secure all the entries it needs for a because of the number of officials it can supply. Thank you to everyone for your support this year and Happy Christmas. Fast, Friendly Efficient Philippa Upton Service! CN Bowls Club Our Outdoor green has been treated and ‘put to bed’ and the All Sizes of Skips delivered Indoor season is now in full swing. New members have been where you want, when you want. introduced into league teams. Club, county and national Environmentally friendly, family run business competitions have started and enjoyable friendlies against other clubs have been played. Four members triumphed in the committed to recycling. Inter-County Liberty Trophy and our men’s Wessex team Established 30 years. made a convincing start in the newly formed Cotswold Area of this national competition. Competitive prices. We hold coaching sessions on Mondays from 10am, Trust us to take care of your rubbish where we welcome visitors who may have bowled before but also encourage those who have never lifted a wood but would Phone us now on like to have-a-go. Shoes and bowls are provided and a warm welcome awaits, even a cup of tea half-way. For more 01608 641361 information call Carole (652018) or Roberta (643556)

23 CLUB NEWS

‘For Those in Peril on the Sea’ Railway Club steams into 2019 We yachtsmen thought we knew about the RNLI – it rescues In November, we welcomed the return of former Secretary and Chairman, Martin Quartermain. His subject ‘BR Western Region – Post Beeching’ was of great interest and illustrated with his own slides, which included a special chartered train standing in Chipping Norton Station, after closure of the passenger service. He featured many other local stations and the Western Region of the GWR. Martin has one of the area’s best collections of local Railwayana. At the 4 December meeting we will celebrate the festive season with a glass or two of cheer and a hot mince pie. Not forgetting our popular Christmas Raffle, when members’ contributions will be much appreciated. Always a good meting. Entertaining us will be Joe Rosen, with his pet subject Steaming to Broadway, telling the story of the Gloucester & people like us, fishermen and merchant seamen in terrible gales. Warwickshire Railway, based in Toddington but now extended Well it does, but as Fraser Gunn, CN Yacht Club’s speaker this and running between Cheltenham Racecourse and Broadway. month, revealed, it also rescues huge numbers of walkers, sea- As always, no meeting in January. We gather again on 5 anglers, kayakers etc as well as, in 2017, 24,000 people aided by February for our AGM. Meanwhile, the Chairman and RNLI beach lifeguards! He recounted how two 15 year-olds, Committee wish all of our members and friends a very happy first time afloat, lost their rig in terrible conditions – with just Christmas and, as we steam into 2019, a prosperous New Year. a parachute flare to summon help. It was seen, lifeboat launched Estelle Brain and they were saved. He was one of those lads! The RNLI was founded in 1824 – think 18,000 Sharing nuts and fruits with NOOG shipwrecks a year – by Sir William Hilary, without Admiralty On Wednesday 5 support. The first lifeboats were open and rowed, then came December our sailing boats and finally powered vessels. The latest Shannon Christmas ‘eating class is remarkable, can launch in all conditions and is designed meeting’ is an and built in-house at the Poole HQ. The volunteer crews, opportunity to bring including many women, are even more remarkable. The RNLI along dishes to share remains a charity and raises almost £200m a year to protect based on home- all those who venture near water – whether at sea, the coast grown fruits and nuts. and even inland. Visit cnyc.co.uk to learn more. We’ll also be bringing seeds to swap. Our Autumn activities at CNWI November meeting Having enjoyed excellent talks in September and October, proved fascinating and inspiring. Anne Miller from the Chipping Norton Women’s Institute looks forward to Evenlode Catchment Partnership explained how this semi- welcoming Veronica Wilson from County Office to give a voluntary group has successfully started restoring our local presentation about the WI’s own history on 14 November. Evenlode river to the state it would have been in a couple of Entitled, When Revolution was the only Solution, this will discuss hundred years ago. In the process, flooding is being averted, the way in which the WI has changed the lives of women and water quality improved and wildlife habitats created. A very families over the last 100 years, and should give an interesting heartening project. insight into the background of our national organisation. The We don’t meet in January but will be back again with a last meeting of the year, which will be on Wednesday 12 new programme for the year on Wednesday 6 February. Do December is also our Christmas party – a now traditional join us – visitors are always welcome (Members £1, visitors convivial get-together for our members. £3). Meetings are held in St Mary’s Parish Rooms, starting at Prudence Chard 642903 7.30pm. For any enquiries about N Oxon Organic Gardeners, please contact Tracy Lean [email protected], 01295 CRAG shares a refugee lunch in Witney 780710, www.noog.org.uk. In October Charlbury Refugee Action Group (CRAG) helped organise an event in Witney to bring six refugee families, now Folk Club’s ‘top notch’ evening living there, together with the many local people who helped With winter closing in what better place to spend a Monday furnish their houses and who continue to act as translators, night than with the Chipping Norton Folk Club at the Art Yard English language teachers and befrienders. It was a lovely Café in Enstone. All the usual suspects were there and a quite event with music, dancing, a poem by one of the refugee a few new faces too. Of course there was a strong WWI women, and delicious Syrian food which the Syrian women theme going this month with The Green Fields of France sung cooked. It wasn't meant as a fundraiser, but it made a small by Marcus and the ubiquitous Where Have All the Flowers Gone? 'profit' which is going to support the work sponsored in from Lynn.There was an international flavour to the music Lebanese refugee camps by the charity Help Refugees. To too with the Skye Boat Song played on a trio of ukuleles by learn more about CRAG, to join or to make a donation please Kate, Rosemary and Ellie, some foot stomping flamenco from visit: http://www.charlbury.info/community/88/ Harry and a heart stopping moment of beauty when Eleanor John Dunleavy sang a Scottish ballad in Gaelic. And as if that wasn’t enough

24 CLUB NEWS we had two songs about death in Welsh from Bethan. The next year's programme, followed by mulled wine and mince standard of music was top notch and the evening was pies. New members are welcome. For details phone Heather rounded off in fantastic style by the ever brilliant Pete Joshua. on 643691 or email [email protected]. Visit www.chippingnortonfolk.org.uk for more info. Becky Pearman Dave Oakley Scouting out and about Frosty fingers for Chippy Stargazers Beavers: Woodpecker Colony has been busy with a new As autumn makes its badge, the Builder Activity badge. The Beavers had to design a presence felt and early model of something they would like to build. We decided to frosts numb the do haunted houses. They made a list of the things they needed astronomical fingers, CN and a lot of empty boxes, cardboard, etc was donated by Amateur Astronomy parents. We spent a fun evening making the houses and it was Group moves into a interesting to listen to the Beavers talk about the differences period of outreach work between their original designs and the actual models. taking us to Daylesford Cubs had a Halloween party where they had fun carving Organics, local schools pumpkins, dressing each other up to look like mummies using and other venues. The toilet paper and bobbing for apples. To commemorate colder air has given us Remembrance Day Steve Kingsford from the Royal British some terrific observing Legion guided us around the Poppy Trail in Chipping Norton sessions such as our and told us about the men behind the plaques. The Cubs had participation on 21 October in the International Observe the lots of questions for him and they also told us about some of Moon Night global event with plenty of people turning out to their relatives’ war time experiences. the Rollright Stones on probably the last dry and relatively warm night of the year. This stunning photo was taken that Scouts have been building bird boxes. They also loved making night by CNAAGer Alexandra Brown Talking Sticks which allow the holder to be listened to in On 17 December we welcome Open University Mars silence without being judged. Four Scouts have been invested specialist, Dr Susan Schwenzer as our guest speaker in the this term and we have gone to NOM – a midnight challenge Methodist rooms; this Christmas meeting will have a seasonal hike. It was very cold and wet, but on the plus side, teams flavour. Without waiting for the BBC to make up its mind we from 6th Chippy came in second and fourth place. are planning our own mini Chipping Norton Stargazing series The Explorers celebrated the autumn in style. They held a of events throughout January with observing from the Town Harvest Bingo with great prizes in Enstone on 14 October Centre and elsewhere, plus other events. Details nearer the time on www.cnaag.com and posters around town. Our January meeting will be on Monday 21st in the Methodist Rooms, 7.30 for an 8pm start – guest speaker TBC. Hidden Beauty Thanks to everyone in the Chippy area for their terrific support throughout the year and CNAAG wishes everyone a 8 Middle Row Cosmic Christmas and an Astronomical New Year Chipping Norton Robin Smitten 0X7 5NH 01608 643862 Rambling round Ditchley Email: [email protected] Website: www.hiddenbeautyoxfordshire.co.uk The weather stayed mild and dry for the November ramble which started outside Charlbury’s new community centre, Hair and beauty boutique in the heart heading past the green opposite, and taking an unfamiliar of Chipping Norton byway past the school, then crossing the road into Ticknell Lane. Along a wooded footpath towards Ditchley Park, leaving Offering a wide range of beauty the houses behind, we turned on to the wet and leafy saltway. and hair treatments. Following the well-marked right of way with arable fields on Hair services either side, we stopped to admire the gated walled entrance to the Park Farm barn conversion. Continuing this circular Nail treatments walk, we turned left at the white gated security entrance, and Environ Facials followed the newly surfaced Ditchley approach road back towards the Town, when a brief shaft of sunlight peeped Waxing through the autumn sky to remind us of the shortening days. Lashes & brows Back at the new community centre, we enjoyed tea and cake, Competitive prices and very comfy seating in the well stocked library area. Now that the evenings are darker, we meet at 1.30pm We pride ourselves on our quality standards (rather than 2pm), always in the New St car park on the first and customer care Sunday of the month. Usually we then get into a couple of cars For queries, questions and more and drive to the start of the walk which lasts about two hours. But in December we will meet in the car park, go for information, feel free to get in touch today. a short local walk finishing at a member's house to discuss

25 CLUB NEWS and raised £417 Dinner at Whistlers where the team always give us a for scout funds. wonderful evening. And later in the month we have our usual This was followed meeting when we all go home with a lovely Christmas Wreath by a Halloween for our doors. WOWI is also collecting for a charity, Smalls for evening when they All, donating underwear for women in Africa, and taking part played games, lit in Oxfordshire Federation of WI’s Christmas Campaign to sparklers and help support local Food Banks. Please get in touch to find out carved pumpkins what is in store in 2019 and how to become a member. to produce a great Hilary Dix 646228 display. (see photo). They are Green Gym on the Common also planning an We worked mainly in Chippy last month including two International cooking evening. sessions at the Community Orchard preparing for Apple Day – which was a great success: see p 7. It’s eight years since we Lively women at WOWI were given a lease on this land by the Field Reeves. The patch West Oxfordshire WI meets on the third Monday of the was in a bad way because the Common’s grazing cattle can’t month in St Mary's Parish Rooms, Chipping Norton at reach it. So we planted it with apples, pears, plums, gages and 7.30pm. We are a lively group of women who welcome more recently soft fruit – for everyone to enjoy (and pick) at visitors with an opportunity to get to know new people and any time of year, not just our popular Apple and Blossom Days. take part in monthly meetings as well as a variety of events We also continue countywide. Other activities include a craft club, a walking to remove invasive group and a Saturday lunch club. A group also play Pickleball blackthorn at William at the Leisure Centre on Tuesdays. We organise tea and cakes Fowler Wood (beyond at the Methodist Church on the first Sunday of the month for the allotments), have anyone who’d like to come and chat. tidied up the far end of In October we heard from member, Liz Atkins, who the garden at Highlands talked about her Welsh Coastal Walk in Aid of the Teenage Day Centre and the Cancer Trust. She will be going to Southern India in front of the Health November to take part in another gruelling walk for this Centre, and cleared charity. In November we welcome a presenter from the paths and bramble at Blood Bike Charity. December brings our Annual Christmas Fitzalan Wood. This is on the triangle above Travis Perkins another previously neglected part of the Common. We have planted trees, renovated the steps down (see picture) and are beginning to make paths through the undergrowth. Chippy Green Gym meets every Wednesday morning and welcomes new members, whatever your age or ability – there are jobs for all! Lifts may be available and there is no joining fee. Come and enjoy working outdoors in good company. More information on our website www.chippygreengym.org or email me at [email protected]. Jenny Harrington 643269 U3A in the picture Our final meeting this year is on Wednesday, 5 December (Methodist Church 2.30pm) with Clive Nichols talking about Garden Photography. He has a reputation as one of the world's finest flower and garden photographers and dubbed ‘Britain's best garden photograper’ by Photo Plus – The Canon Magazine. Tuesday, 8 January will be our annual lunch at the Wychwood Golf Club – non-members are welcome as guests of existing members. Then in February we restart our meetings with a 70-year Quiz from Acting Chair Anthony Benn to celebrate his birthday. News of Groups: The Walking Group is now meets in the mornings 2nd/4th Thursdays since the clocks changed; a French Conversation Group is being set up; other new Groups in the pipeline. If you want to know more about the U3A, its Groups or its programme of monthly Meetings please visit

26 CLUB NEWS www.u3asites.org.uk/chipping-norton, call 646578, or come to the important issues and shows what a small group of just six Methodist Church on the first Wednesday of the month at 2.30pm. Labour Councillors can achieve on the District Council. Martin Davies Laetisia and Geoff hold regular surgeries at The Old Mill Café where they would be pleased to meet you. The next will CN Flower Club at Christmas be at 10am on Wednesday 5 December. For more information October’s meeting saw a contact Mike Cahill, Branch Secretary at packed audience enjoying a [email protected] Christmassy demonstration There are almost a thousand members and supporters of by Sophie Johnson from the the Labour Party in West Oxfordshire – if you support and Stow flower shop and vote Labour why not join us? join.labour.org.uk several happy winners went Geoff Saul home with some lovely arrangements. Bring a plate Find good fellowship at CN Probus of food to share at our With the New Year approaching CN Probus Christmas meeting on 13 members are looking forward to another December and enjoy a fun year of friendship and good fellowship at quiz. We meet 7-9pm in the monthly meetings plus social events to Methodist Hall – everyone which guests are invited. We plan a Burns welcome. Highland Tea on 25 January, the poet’s 24 January is our AGM in the Town Hall followed by a floral birthday, at the Wychwood Golf Club talk by Paul Embden; annual subscriptions (£22 ) will be due where members could be on course ‘to take a and visitors are welcome as always at £4. Details from Elaine wee dram or two’! The Club plans its traditional visit to on [email protected] or Ann on 683289. Chipping Norton Theatre in February to see Crimes on the Nile. With a pre-show meal at the newly refurbished Chippy Amnesty defend Human Rights Chequers Inn, this will be a great evening to look forward to. At a well-attended meeting on 8 November we wrote 100 Later in the spring there’s a day out on the GWR train from cards, sending messages of support and solidarity to Human Toddington – another opportunity for the fellowship that this Rights Defenders around the world. Members are now busy Club thrives on. Guests are welcome at meetings on the third writing appeal letters to relevant authorities to raise Tuesday of the month at the Crown & Cushion Hotel. Visit awareness of these cases, asking for better protection, fair www.chippingnortonprobus.com or contact our membership process and release of Prisoners of Conscience. And we are secretary, David Hearnshaw on 643374 for more information. asking our MP and the Foreign Office to take action to Martin Williams address the human rights situation in Yemen. Christmas in Chippy: On Sunday 9 December please come to our stall in the Co-op arcade. Whilst learning about Amnesty International and stocking up with Christmas cards you might be tempted by our raffle prizes – wonderful Christmas hampers! Our next meeting on Thursday 10 January is our AGM when we shall be planning our programme for 2019. Everyone is welcome! We meet at 7.30 in Chippy's Lower Town Hall. For further information call Val on 645036. Labour Party news We are a very active party branch of just under a hundred members. If you see us at one of our monthly Saturday morning street stalls in Chipping Norton Market Place, do come and have a chat. Our next social events will be the CLP Christmas Dinner and Red Raffle at the Chequers on 13 December and another Quiz and Chips evening in February following October’s highly enjoyable quiz night. Our Labour District Councillors Laetisia Carter and Geoff Saul have been active in getting West Oxfordshire District Council to adopt the Modern Slavery Charter and also to agree to exempt young people leaving care in the District from Council Tax until they reach the age of 25. On the latter issue, we were delighted that Chippy resident Aaron Miles was able to address the District Council meeting and make such a persuasive case for the benefits that this could bring for care leavers moving into independent accommodation and managing their own budgets for the first time. It was good to get cross-party consensus on these

27 CLUB NEWS

Rotary Club of Burford & Kingham everyone enjoyed the day. The driver also took us on a scenic route around the villages which added to our enjoyment. A very Merry Christmas and a Please note that our Christmas meeting will be a week earlier Happy 2019 to all! than usual, in the Methodist Hall on Wednesday 12 December Recently we enjoyed at 7.30 when one of our members, Paul Embden will speak on Chris Walker’s talk East Africa – the never ending road – the Natural History of these about Burford’s Countries. The talk will be followed with bring and share history and look Christmas refreshments. New members are always welcome. forward to our For more details please visit our website www.cnha.uk or call Christmas Dinner the secretary, Eileen Forse 643275. and Charter Night. The Club has UKIP Corner remembers recently raised funds 100 years ago, the guns fell silent cross Europe, marking the for Riding for the end of The War To End All Wars with millions killed. To even Disabled, the British contemplate another war on such an industrial scale was Heart Foundation, inconceivable, However, just 21 short years later, the local Remembrance ultimate folly of World War 2 unfolded before the events and Rotary unbelieving eyes of the world. The First War, has been charities. As a community service and to help keep our part described as a family quarrel between cousins. A century of the Cotswolds attractive, Club members recently collected before, it would have resulted in border skirmishes, but litter along the A40 including two traffic signs and a ladder industrialisation, among other things, allowed it to get out (pictured here)! Visitors to club meetings are welcome but of hand. World War 2 was different, the leader of a very please contact our secretary, Terry Best, at minor (in the 1920's) party came to power in Germany, terry.a.best@btinternet beforehand. and appeasement was the response, until eventually, the World had to react. To quote Churchill, ‘Jaw, Jaw is better Horticultural ‘bring & share’ than War, War’, something on which, whatever our diverse A new venture for the Chipping Norton Horticultural political opinions we can unite. With this in mind, I wish all, Association has been a day out to see the autumn colours. In whatever their cultural or religious heritage, a Merry October, 61 members and friends went by coach to Christmas, a prosperous and above all, a peaceful New Year. Westonbirt Arboretum – the weather was perfect and Jim Stanley

28 SCHOOLS NEWS

news about our fundraising targets and, in the meantime, do Chipping Norton School come along and support our fundraising events. Many thanks Art trip to Florence: 37 students and four adults enjoyed to everyone who supported the recent cake sale at Chastleton. We look forward to seeing as many people as possible at the Christmas Shopping Fayre to be held at the School on Friday, 7 December from 5.30pm. If you are interested in joining the PTA Committee, please contact Morag Robinson in the School office ([email protected]). We would be delighted to hear from you. Author talk: Year 7 enjoyed a fascinating talk from children’s an art weekend to Florence. The students were able to author, Tom Moor- experience the birthplace of the Renaissance and the house at the end of wonders of the Uffizi with its paintings by Botticelli and term. As well as being Caravaggio. They explored the breathtaking Duomo built an author, Tom is a nearly 1000 years ago and the Galleria dell’Accademia to see research ecologist at Michelangelo’s David. They strolled over the Ponte Vecchio to Oxford University and the Pitti Palace, once the home of the Medici family and now spoke to the students an art gallery, and then into the Boboli Gardens with beautiful about the plight of water voles at the hands of the American views of the city and the Tuscan countryside. Pizza, pasta and mink, a subject he highlights in his wonderful books: The River ice-creams were consumed as they enjoyed temperatures of Singer and The Rising. Tom also ran a brilliant animal fiction 27 degrees! The trip was an amazing experience and the writing workshop for Y8/9 students and a small group of Y6 students demonstrated just how wonderful CNS young pupils from Holy Trinity and St Mary’s. The students came up people are. It was a truly special trip. with some spectacular ideas. Night of the Musicals: This year’s concert was truly Biology Field Trip: Year 13 biology students travelled to memorable. The hall was full and the Year 7s performed their Port Talbot staying three songs perfectly and with great enthusiasm. The Flute at Margam Dis- Group’s debut performance of Chitty Bang (complete with car covery Centre, an horn and whistles!) was fantastic and all the soloist and small incredibly natural group singers were excellent. Thank you to all who took part. and ecological Our Music and education centre. Drama students are During the four rehearsing hard for days the students the forthcoming investigated species school production diversity in rock of Joseph and the pools, plant diversity in a 300m stretch of sand dunes and Amazing Technicolor carried out an assessed practical in a woodland stream. The Dreamcoat with students also had extended classroom learning at the centre two evening perfor- and benefitted hugely from being able to put practical skills mances on 29 & 30 into practice in natural environments. November and a matinée on Saturday 1 December. Tickets are available from the School Finance Office. Chipping Norton School PTA: If you have children already at the School, you may have noticed a recent increase in activity from the School’s Parent Teacher Association. Relaunched at the start of the school year with a new Committee, and with the enthusiastic support of new Head, Barry Doherty, and other staff at the School, the PTA’s focus is on fundraising activities to benefit those pupils already at the School and those yet to start. Watch this space for more

29 SCHOOLS NEWS

we moved onto the climbing wall. I was scared but I managed St Mary’s Primary to do it, which made me happy. Then lunch – yum! After lunch And they’re off .... to Stratford Racecourse: Year 5 went were more activities and in the evening we had a camp fire on a special maths day to learn more about weights and followed by hot chocolate and biscuits. On Thursday I enjoyed measures. An ex-jockey named John and a member of staff doing the vertical challenge and the crate challenge. In the from the racing school showed us to the first activity where evening there was a disco and gift shop. Friday morning was a busy morning because we had to pack and roll our sleeping bags up. After breakfast I did the giant swing and abseiling. It was really scary stepping over the side of the tower. It was a tiring but very enjoyable week! Street dance: On Thursday 8 November a dancer called Dennis Victory came into school to teach Year 5 and 6 a

there were chairs covered in jockey silks; we all had to put them on over our coats. Then John showed us the weighing room; some people thought they were for horses but they are actually for the jockeys. We had to estimate our weight and then use the scales to record our results. Next, we were taken to the parade ring and used a trundle wheel to measure its perimeter. After lunch we went round to look at all the street dance routine. It was a fun morning, learning new different types of jumps. The really exciting part of the day was choreography and putting it together to make a dance. At the when we went to watch two races. The winner of the first end of the morning Dennis showed us a mixture of his was called Shannon Hill and the second was Stowaway favourite dance moves. He was amazing! Everyone enjoyed it Magic.We all had a wonderful time and would love to go back, and the year 5s are looking forward to seeing him again next we learnt so much. year. PGL adventure: A Year 6 student reports: On Tuesday Headteacher report: Mrs Stallwood-Barnes, Headteacher, afternoon I went to school to go to PGL. I felt really nervous would like remind all parents of the toddlers within our about PGL. At 2.30pm we got on the bus and left some community that the School hosts a soft play session on Friday parents crying and so were some of the children. At 4pm we mornings from 9am. Croissants, fruit and coffees are enjoyed arrived and everyone was excited. It looked really good. We by parents whilst the little ones enjoy their play together. got off the bus and took our belongings to our rooms. We had Please come along as we would love to meet you. For any half an hour to put our things away and then went to look parents who may not be aware, we also offer our pupils a around the site. At dinner time we went to the cafeteria and breakfast drop off at £2 per session, three hours after-school the food was great and in the evening we did a quiz. The next care for £8.50 a session and six weeks’ worth of holiday day we woke up at 6.30am and went to breakfast, then got sports clubs at £15 a session. For more information please into three groups. I was in Mrs Burman’s group. Our first contact the Headteacher via our website www.st-marys- activity was the sensory trail. It was really enjoyable, and then chipping.oxon.sch.uk/

30 SCHOOLS NEWS

Make Me Smile: Next week Year 6 will have a visit from the Holy Trinity Primary Make Me Smile team. They will have a workshop throughout Harvest Festival: On Thursday 18 October, all the children the day learning about mental health and how to cope with at Holy Trinity Catholic School celebrated Harvest Festival ‘worries’. This is a fantastic scheme aimed at helping young children understand their thoughts and feelings and building up their resilience. Remembrance Assembly: On Friday 9 November, all children at Holy Trinity came together to show their respect for Remembrance Day. As a school, we wore our poppies with pride, remembering those who had fought in the First World

together. Each class presented a wonderful display to the rest of the School, including songs, poetry, artwork and prayers. War and many other conflicts to protect our freedom. This was a lovely afternoon, enjoyed by all. An overwhelming Children who belong to Beavers, Brownies, Rainbows and amount of food was donated by the children and a beautiful Cubs were dressed in their smart uniforms to commemorate display was made in the school hall. This was then given to our the centenary of the end of WWI. local food bank. All Saints Feast Mass: Holy Trinity celebrated All Saints Timeline: Mrs Taylor has Feast Mass at our local Church on 1 November. The Mass was worked incredibly hard led by Father Tony, with readings from our Year 5 class. The designing and making a children read beautifully, sharing the importance of all of our timeline for our school. It saints. is now presented in our school hall, dating from ACE Centre Nursery when dinosaurs first lived The ACE Centre on the Earth up until Nursery School present day. The children has really been a have been very excited hive of activity learning about all the key this autumn. Walk moments in our history. This is a fantastic resource which all in, any day, and the children can now use. you will find busy Anglo-Saxon/Viking Day: Year 4 are very excited to have children: building the ‘Viking School Company’ visit. The children will learn life-size cars with about Anglo-Saxon and Viking life in a fun-filled workshop. new (Friends They will have the chance to dress up and learn about their funded) ‘Outlast’ lives from the many artefacts brought in on the day. wooden blocks; engineering giant ball runs, testing Hard work at the Autumn Dig Day at the how gradients start of November and directions affect speed; creating huge fireworks paintings; telling stories and acting them out to an audience; extending counting skills and pre-calculation concepts of number conservation, equality, what zero looks like in play. This term we have had four trainee teachers working alongside our permanent team. A new team of adults support individual children, ensuring their well-being and involvement in learning and an equally fulfilling experience for each and every child at Nursery School. In the background our Governors continue to work hard and The Friends of the ACE Centre raise funds with imagination, commitment and a real positive impact. Last, and of course not least, thanks to our families who are sewing, cooking and giving their time to read as Sofa Super Heroes and parent helpers at Forest School, as well as joining forces for a successful Autumn Dig Day at the start of November. A moment, then, for everyone involved, of happy reflection. Well done!

31 SCHOOLS NEWS

Town Nursery School Chadlington Primary Our very youngest children are At Chadlington the School has continued to focus on the normally the first out on to our Romans, and after the highly successful visit of Caroline field in the morning. Children and Lawrence just before half term to talk about her Roman staff dress for exploration with Mysteries series of books, the School was very fortunate to plastic trousers, coats and have Elizabeth Rowe visit to talk about the architecture of the recently, in the unseasonably cold period. The focus is now moving towards volcanoes linked to weather, mittens! The children the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD. wear plastic bags and socks over Throughout the their feet, ensuring nothing deters school there has been them from the freedom of plenty of preparation crawling, climbing and practising for the centenary of their walking in our large open Armistice Day, with space. We have a muddy mound which to the children must the Reception class seem like a mountain and a wood area with a mud kitchen and making a beautiful pallets to climb on. This month Nursery 1 have been enjoying poppy collage of a crawling in the autumn leaves. Lots of giggles, yelping and soldier in remem- joyful screaming as they waved, threw and ripped the leaves. A brance of all those tame robin came to join us and watch what we were doing. who have given their The children are fascinated with jars and lids so we brought lives to protect the some leaves back to fill our jars with. The children love helping freedoms we enjoy Anthea in the garden (see photo above). This month they have today. been helping plant bulbs ready for spring. The ‘field’ for the On the sports field at the CNPS Hockey Tournament, the Nursery 1 children is not only the place to run, play and School excelled once more, with the boys finishing second on explore, it is where they relish in meeting the older children goal difference, not conceding once! The girls managed fourth who welcome them joining in with their games. on this occasion, but all demonstrated the kind of tenacity that will stand them in good stead in future. Kingham Primary Now, with the nights drawing in and the weather worsening, it’s time to make a Testudo formation, and march School was visited by the inspirational GB Paralympian Jack headlong into Christmas! Rutter, who with Belinda, the ‘sportivator’, organised a series Great Rollright School December is a joyous month at our school, full of Christmas activity. Younger children are working hard to learn their parts in our annual nativity play, while older pupils are helping to plan our annual carol service next door at St Andrew’s Church. All will enjoy our special Christmas lunch on the 20th – with the turkey and trimmings cooked in-house for the first time, thanks to our new kitchen. Recent highlights: Pantomine: We started the Christmas celebration early, with a visit by the whole school to see Dick Whittington at of fun fitness circuits. From one-minute star jumps to tricky the Oxford Playhouse last month. knee drives, the children threw themselves into these heart- pumping fitness activities, which were performed to music. After a brilliant first term, Nursery have a busy couple of months planned. No two days are ever the same but our week follows a pattern – Monday village walks, Tuesday immersion in our topic, Wednesday sporting moments and Friday baking and forest school. This half term we are excited to launch ‘community day’ Thursdays. Inspired by the Channel 4 programme ‘Old People’s Home for 4-Year-Olds’ we have a visit planned to Langston Nursing Home. The grim weather didn’t dampen the spirit or impressive play of the hockey team, who were a credit to the School, in Children Singing for Children: For the 13th year, our behaviour, team work and sporting attitude. Both boys and school choir joined others from all over North Oxfordshire girls played superbly throughout the tournament with both to sing to a full house at St Mary’s Church, Banbury, to raise teams winning overall. money for Rotary projects benefitting children worldwide. Years 1 and 2 had great fun visiting the Fire Station in Disco: Families and staff danced up a storm at the village hall, Chipping Norton. We began by getting wet with the water in yet another successful event hosted by the Friends of Great hoses and all had a go at putting out a fire! Rollright – a group dedicated to raising money and bringing

32 SCHOOLS NEWS the school community together. Parents and carers are encouraged to visit to see all that Sibford School we offer – including a free bus to Chipping Norton. Please Friends in Flanders: Sibford School marked the 100th make an appointment by calling 01608 737202. anniversary of the Armistice by welcoming Linda Palfreeman, author Bledington Primary of the book Friends in One of our pupils, along with Flanders. Linda spoke her family, had the honour of about the work launching the 2018 Poppy undertaken by the Appeal at Stow-on-the-Wold. Friends Ambulance Unit Eloise had entered The Bert (FAU) during the First England Remembrance Com- World War. ‘Most petition and won first prize with Quakers were of the her fantastic T-shirt design. Her opinion that any war was design has been used on T-shirts, directly opposed to their sweatshirts, tea towels and beliefs and to the law of other merchandise which will love’, she explained. be sold locally this year to raise ‘However many of the money for the Poppy Appeal. A Linda & Anna Jo with Sibford pupils younger men in worthy achievement. particular were anxious to carry out work in the war zones. Alexander, Cameron, Monty & Nat report: On Tuesday, a They wanted to share the dangers and the deprivations being small team of Year 4’s went to Bourton-on-the-Water suffered by their countrymen who were risking their lives at Primary School to play a football tournament against other the Front and they believed that one way to do this was by local schools. We were very excited and couldn’t wait to get creating an ambulance unit.’ Linda outlined some of the work there – we had been talking about it all week! Adam, Xavier, undertaken by the FAU, particularly in Ypres, where the men Cameron, Alexander, Monty, Nat, Martha and Rubi formed our worked tirelessly to try to alleviate the suffering of the team but Ottie was ill and couldn’t play. First, we played Swell townsfolk and where they faced the added challenge of a and Longborough but we lost as they scored lots of goals, typhoid epidemic. Their actions were greatly appreciated by then we played Great Rissington School when we got a draw. the people of Ypres. Anna Jo Mathers, Assistant Head, Learning In the third game we thrashed the Bourton B team 5-0. We and Teaching, at Sibford School said, ‘It was a real pleasure to came second overall and were very proud of how well we did. welcome Linda, her talk was inspirational.’ Kingham Hill School Year 9 pupils visit WWI battlefields: Just before half term, Year 9 pupils set off for the battlefields of France and Belgium. The trip, provided pupils with the unique opportunity to learn about WWI history in the battlefields where it was fought. The first day of the trip saw pupils enjoying a lively introduction to World War I at the Canadian National Memorial. Members of the public even stopped to listen to Mr William’s expertly delivered lecture. Day Two saw the group exploring various sites of the Somme Battlefield, including spending time in the Hawthorn Ridge crater and Newfoundland Park. The following day the focus shifted to Belgium, where the pupils were able to compare Langemark German cemetery with Tyne Cot, the largest Commonwealth War Grave cemetery in the world. In the evening they witnessed the unforgettable Last Post ceremony at the Menin Gate in Ypres. Pupils were given the chance to use their language skills in the market of Arras, including ordering food and items from restaurants and shops. Following this, the Year 9s set course for their return to the UK via the Dunkirk beaches and a V1 rocket site. Next Open Day: Saturday 2 February 2019.

33 LETTERS

round option as the practice continued with no staff The Chipping Norton News Team welcomes letters but reminds writers that name and address must be supplied redundancies. With closure, both secretaries have been obliged and that the opinions expressed on this page are not those to look for work. Having been retired for over two years, I of the Team. have no plans to move away. Chipping Norton continues to be a vibrant town which I am happy to be a part of. There is now Remember our football history just one firm of solicitors. For a town of Chippy's size, which I have lived in Chippy all my life. My dad, continues to grow, it is not enough to give people choice. I Norman Cox, was also born in hope some other firm will see the opportunity awaiting and Diston's Lane and lived here until he benefits of working here, serving the local community. died. A keen footballer, he was up at Geoff Gafford the football ground every day and his ashes were scattered on the Last rock in Chippy? centre-spot, along with those of Reg Can someone please tell me the Benfield and Charlie Withers. These, title and artist of the last album to and many other great men, gave up their be made in Chipping Norton spare time, working hours for the football Recording Studios? Also, part of club. All these great men and players of long ago are now gone Rick Parfitt’s solo album, ‘Over and with nothing to commemorate them or the Magpies or Swifts. Out’, was recorded in ‘The Garage It would be nice if they and 100 plus years of Chippy Football Studios, Chipping Norton’. Where History could be remembered in the naming of the access are or were the Garage Studios? roads to the proposed 1,200 new homes. Kenny Hawtin Margaret Newman (née Cox) Pictured here are Richard & Mike Vernon – founders of Chipping Councils adding to parking woes Norton Recording Studio With Harper's Plan approved, West Oxfordshire District Council suggests the 13 dwellings, with possibly 26 or more Local Plan voting extra cars, will easily find spaces in or near the town centre! I am disappointed, but perhaps not surprised, that Guy Wall, Where are all these empty parking spots available? Albion Street in supporting the West Oxfordshire Local Plan, appears not 24 hour car park is almost perpetually full. Portland Place leading to have read it. The Plan covers the period 2011-2031, so 20 to the site has double yellow lines in force six days a week, with years as Guy said. The total housing figure for the Chipping possibly three or four spaces at night. Did councillors and Norton area is 2,047, of which 1,200 are to be at Tank Farm. officials investigate where these mythical empty car parking That means over 100 new homes every year, when spaces are? We would all be delighted to discover them. historically the figure has been 30-40.Expanding the Town Jenny Selby-Green (Portland Place resident) by over 60% is simply not sustainable; it will lead, if it Solicitors closing happens, to: increased traffic problems, which the relief road will not solve; an increase in the already illegal level of air Your piece last month regarding closure of Johnson & Gaunt's pollution; further pressure on the NHS, particularly as office made particularly sad reading for me. The number of Chippy seems to be a target for developers of homes for solicitors entering the legal profession is at an all time high. older people. These are just some of the many reasons why They can't all want to work in cities with fat cat salaries. the Plan was opposed by our Labour Councillors. Surely a fair number place quality of life above other David Heyes considerations? Working in Chipping Norton for over thirty years was a privilege. I could walk to work and if I needed a Distressing flu jab queues car unexpectedly, I could walk home to get it. I got to know The arrangements at Chipping Norton Health Centre for flu so many clients who later became friends. We were accessible, immunisation for those over 65 were shameful. Two Saturday right in the centre of the Town, a busy practice, and barely morning sessions were advertised, each lasting three hours. needed to advertise. Our only regular advertisement was in At 11am on 27 October the queue looped round the inside Chipping Norton News, largely to help support a valuable waiting area before extending outside to the main car park publication. When John and I sold our practice, there were a beyond the covered walkway. It was a very cold morning number of parties, including national firms, whose only (later it snowed), and several people were leaving, having interest was in taking the wills from our strongroom decided the wait was likely to be too cold and too long. My (potential future work) and then closing the office. 30 minute wait outside was followed by 30 minutes inside, The agreement with Johnson & Gaunt was the best all which included a minute for the injection. Many people in the queue were much older than 65, very frail and had Arts & Crafts Christmas at Great Rollright difficulty or pain when standing for so long. It was a Join twelve local artists in distressing scene. The duty manager said he was surprised Great Rollright Village Hall by the long queue and was ‘listening and learning’. Flu Friday 7 December 1-4pm & immunization clinics have been part of general practice for Saturday & Sunday 8/9 December many years. The Chipping Norton Practice must know the 10am-4pm number of patients over 65, the approximate percentage Unique gifts to purchase. who avail themselves of immunization, and the number who Festive refreshments available can be immunised per hour by a doctor or nurse. They should plan appropriately. The Practice is likely to be receiving

34 LETTERS at least £10 extra for each patient it immunises. Those from all over the world. As a unit, she and the other members patients deserve a more efficient and considerate service. need to raise £160,000, individually £4000, to allow her and Roy Meadow other third world Scouts to attend. The grant from the Town Cemetery clear up thanks. Council of £2000 is incredibly generous and along with the proceeds from her many, many hours spent fundraising, she will Saturday morning (Cemetery Clear Up Day – 13 October) be taking a trip of a lifetime. Once again, thank you Chipping started off extremely windy and wet because of Storm Norton Town Council, from the Family Blundell. Sheena Blundell Help Jenny’s charity mission I am a gap year student, having finished my A levels at CNS in June, and will be studying geography at university in September 2019. In February, I will be travelling to Nepal with Raleigh International – part of the International Citizen Service (ICS) for young people doing voluntary development work abroad. Raleigh work in remote locations to improve access to safe water and protect vulnerable environments. My first placement challenge is to raise £1500 towards the ICS work to help fund their youth volunteer work in Callum, but in spite of this, we had the best turnout ever with disadvantaged communities. My programme place itself is 17 people braving the elements. The conditions improved, the already paid for – visas, flights, travel and medical insurance, sun came out and much clearing of the ever-encroaching medication, vaccines, food, the lot! So all the funds I raise will undergrowth was achieved. My sincere thanks to all who support all ICS partners to run the programme effectively. came, especially seven staff of the Co-op who joined us as Amongst other part of their initiative to help in the community, and again to things, I’ll be selling Peta Simmons for the refreshments. Christmas cards Martin Jarratt Chairman Cemetery Committee (pictured – it’s Thank you to Vanessa Oliveri, the Town Clerk, and Don colour!). I would love Davidson, the Mayor, for organising two skips to go to the News readers to cemetery, where there was a great pile of rubbish. And a big support me by buying thank you also to Edwin Stobart for supplying the digger, and some. You can order Pinky Hicks for driving it and clearing up the mess. It is so so via [email protected]). They’re £5 for 10 and £10 for much better. I’m afraid walking through the cut through to my 25. Keep track of my progress at husband’s grave made me feel very sad that people could leave www.justgiving.com/fundraising/jenny-woolcock. Any con- such a mess. It was not a good example. I am truly thankful tribution will make a real difference to the lives of people in and would really like to express my gratitude. developing countries, so please dig deep! Thank you so much. Monica Deakin (by telephone message) Jenny Woolcock Thanks for Jamboree funding … and last but not least We are delighted to write that Katie Blundell has been awarded Joao & Linda at the Crown & Cushion would like to wish all a 'grant to voluntary bodies,' from Chipping Norton Town their patrons ‘A Very Merry Christmas’ & ‘A Happy New Year’. Council, to attend the World Scout Jamboree. For her this is a We also thank you for your custom during 2018 and we look fantastic opportunity, where, with 36 Oxfordshire Scouts, she forward to seeing you all during the coming year. will go on an amazing trip to the USA, joining 40,000 scouts Linda Maia e Silva ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

Production & proof-reading: Jill Thorley, Judy Buckingham, Kaye Freeman, Lindsay February deadline: Friday 11 January Johnstone, Jo McVicker, Carole Rose, Deb Webb & David Woolley Tel: 01608 643219 Email: [email protected] Distribution: Carole Rose &Gay Holden, Judy Buckingham, Rolie Clarke, Judy Donegan Advertising & Club Treasurer: Sandra Cash (07787 925133) Blog: www.chippynews.org Twitter: www.twitter.com/chippynews Sales Outlets: Aldi Bakers Hair Bartholomews The Blue Boar Caffè Nero The Chequers Co- op Foodstore Co-op Pharmacy, Cotswold Newsagent Costcutter CN Health Centre. CN Facebook: www.facebook.com/chippynews Hospital CN Post Office Crown & Cushion Gill & Co Guildhall One Stop Shop Hidden Beauty Final copy should be sent to Chipping Norton News, c/o Hill Lawn Highlands Day Centre Jaffé & Neale CN Leisure Centre Old Mill Bistro New St Dental Surgery House, 22 New Street, Chipping Norton, OX7 5LJ or email to Porcupine Sainsbury’s Spar at Esso West Street News Café de la Post, Chad.lington Subscriptions: You can have the News posted to you. Send a cheque for £20 annual subscription, [email protected] made payable to The Chipping Norton News to Rolie Clarke 63 New Street, Chipping Norton Editorial Team for this edition: Richard Averill, Charlotte Bird, Christine Clinch, Clare OX7 5LL. Davison, Sue Hadland, Lindsay Johnstone, Nigel Rose, Keith Ruddle & Jill Thorley Printers: KMS Litho (738005) Section contacts: Arts - Gay Holden (643635), Blog - Pat Moral (www.chippynews.org), The editorial team welcomes articles and letters (names supplied please), but reserves the right Business - Chris Hogan (646395), Sports - Graham Beacham (810047), Schools - Clare to edit or cut depending on space available. While taking every care to check accuracy we cannot Davison (642373) take reponsibility for errors which might occur. Opinions expressed in contributions are not Contributors: Richard Averill, Graham Beacham, Charlotte Bird, Frances Buckel, Judy Buckingham, necessarily those of the News Team. The News does not endorse or accept liability for any Christine Clinch, Clare Davison, Kaye Freeman, Sue Hadland, Chris Hogan, Gay Holden, Alison Huitt, products or services provided by advertisers. The News is published monthly (except January and Lindsay Johnstone, Jo McVicker, Patricia Moral, Roger Sinclair, Linda Rand, Carole Rose, Nigel Rose, August) by the Chipping Norton News Club which is voluntary and non profit-making. Keith Ruddle, Sam Stretton & others where stated. The Chipping Norton News is printed in FSC approved paper

35 Ah! Ah! Ah-laddin’s Magic Panto Far, far away in a mysterious land, Aladdin is about to embark on the greatest adventure of all time ... but in fact he is back at Chipping Norton Theatre! The wicked Abanazar was spotted out exercising his camel round town. The News team’s Gay Holden was wowed at the press preview. What a treat you are in for if you are not one of the early devilry expected of the baddie. The audience had plenty of birds who has already seen Chippy’s pantomime. From the opportunities to hiss and boo at him which delighted him all wonderful opening set the more abominably! The Genie of the Lamp, beautifully with two enormous played by Anna Brook-Mitchell, was captivating with her gold Egyptian Horus unexpected ‘street’ delivery. All three characters had by far statues, to the over- the best costumes (and of course Dame Gertie exceeded all the-top brilliance of expectations the final scene, this is with her fan- a production full of tastical finale colour, fun, great creation), which lighting, staging and showed up a sound effects, and glaring anomaly: memorable perform- why did Aladdin ances. Many people himself wear will have seen the the same drab camel wandering costume almost around Chippy, but throughout, es- there’s a lot more to it pecially after he than that, which audiences will find out in a hilarious filmed became fab- clip at the start of the show. ulously rich? The A warm round of applause greeted the welcome return Photo: Josh Tomalin Pippins of of Andrew Pepper as Dame Gertie whose first number had course added their invaluable presence and the musical the audience in helpless laughter with ‘her’ rendition of ‘I’m a accompaniment was excellent. A great production by John Widow’. Benedict Martin is a superb Abanazar with all the Terry, as ever. The season is already heavily booked but there are over 90+ performances of Chippy’s nationally renowned panto – on from now until early January. See www.chippingnortontheatre.com or call Box Office on 642350.

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