CASSINGTON & WORTON NEWS News and views from the parish of and Worton March 2007 – Issue 357

From the team If it hadn’t been for the headline-grabbing rarity of snow, the headline for this month’s newsletter might have been ... Queen coming to Cassington Meaning, of course, what must be one of the first post Oscar screenings of The Queen, starring best actress winner Helen Mirren, when it comes to Cassington Village Hall on Friday 9th March. Thanks to the trail of Golden Globe, Bafta and Oscar nominations ticket sales have been hot and there really are only a few remaining, so you may be disappointed if you just turn up on the night. Call Carolyn on 884458 before its too late. Talking of Baftas, I’m told there are a few tickets available for Royalty or discerning members of the Cassington community for the Cassington Players own BAFTA night - food, drink, entertainment, glitz and glamour apparently. See What’s on for details. One thing I’m surprised not to find in the CAWN postbag was any comment on the Thursday 8th February 2007: snow proposed waste recycling developments. Front page news in the Times. Is it a good thing? Should we be worried? It is our Just in case global warming takes a grip and snow never back yard after all. Balanced opinions would again returns to Cassington, we thought CAWN should be welcomed. So, if March doesn’t blow us all away, have a record what may prove to be an historical last. good month and hopefully we will be looking back at this wintry issue from the spring-like As ever the nation was taken by surprise, roads were in chaos and commuters comfort of our April issue. up and down the country chose to leave the car in the garage and take the sledge out of the attic. With the snow deep, crisp and Until next month ... even enough for the schools to be closed and for the children to have a surprise day off, many braved the Advertising rates cold and snowmen popped up all over the village. Local ‘what’s on’ and fund-raising stuff is free. This smiley chap appeared on the corner of Elms Simple local services, ‘for sales’ etc, are now also Road, and one group created an impressive row of free on noticeboard. Suitable commercial business are invited to snowmen on the village green, above – the largest support our community by buying advertising was at least seven feet tall. Sadly, within perhaps ten space ... minutes of taking this picture, a group of older 1/8 page, £5 (£50 per year) children decided it would be more fun to knock them 1/4 page, £8 (£80 per year) down. Undaunted, more snowmen popped up the 1/2 page, £12 (£120 per year) Full page, £20 (£200 per year) following day as the last of the snow was rolled up Technical details for artwork available on from the school playing fields. So, if it never snows request. All material included at the discretion of again, remember, you heard it here last. CAWN. Profits will be passed to the Cassington Parochial Charities to support our community.

Contributions should ideally be provided by email (in the body or as a Word attachment) to: [email protected]; delivered on floppy disc, or (as a last resort) typed or clearly handwritten, to Kevin Hinton, Mill Lane House, Mill Lane, Cassington, OX29 4DL, by the 20th of the month. We look forward to hearing from you. NEWS FROM THE PEWS OF ST PETER’S Cassington Women’s Institute CHURCH, CASSINGTON Women’s World Day of Prayer this year will be on We met in the village hall on the 15th February, we were Friday March 2nd at 7.30pm in St Leonard’s welcomed by Pat Evans. After the minutes were read the Church, . What do you know about correspondence and matters arising were dealt with. Paraguay and its culture? Have you any idea what’s The winter supper was at the Chequers Inn this year their happening to the church out there? If not, come along menu was delicious and enjoyed by all. and listen to Deborah Lake talk, hear twin sisters play the Paraguayan harp, and be inspired to pray for the The group meeting will be at Kidlington on the 29th women of this country. March when we will hear John Tyler (wildlife photographer) again, this time his talk is titled ‘Volcanos Mothering Sunday 18 March Do join us for our and Dragons’. morning service at 10am to celebrate Mothering Sunday. There will be flower posies handed out in Those who are going on the outing ‘Poppies & Periwigs’ church. we will be leaving the village at 8am. Urgent – Car Drivers Church members have been at Denman college, federation weekend is running a successful service providing lifts for booked for Friday 23rd Nov. to Sunday 29th Nov. Cassington residents to the doctors’ or hospital. applications and deposits will need to be sent in by the Due to increasing demand they are in URGENT need 15th March. Papers were given out for nominations to the of more volunteers. If you drive a car and could help committee so that voting can take place at our AGM , our occasionally do contact Pam (880492) or next meeting on 15th March. We will also be having our Pat (880693). supper Jacket potatoes with a variety of fillings which we were asked to volunteer to provide, the cost will be Annual Parochial Church Meeting will be held on reimbursed by treasurer Megan Humphris. Monday 26th March in St Peter’s School Hall. Pat Evans introduced our speaker Jenny Green who read a Coffee Morning and Sale - 10 March 10am-12noon – narrative poem written by a lady called Mable Mary St Leonard’s Church Hall - in aid of renovation of Smith who was born in the country daughter of a the Church Hall. shepherd in 1886, who left school at 11yrs old and had to The Art of Persecution is a national art competition take on her mothers duties at the age of 12 as her mother run by Open Doors to raise awareness and funds for sadly died then, she took us through her service years and Christians around the world who are persecuted for her marriage, children and how well they did to become their faith. The art is being exhibited at St Aldates in owners of cafes and employers, she died on 1965, she was Oxford, and all are welcome to attend the opening Jenny’s paternal grandmother, she was thanked by Audrey night, 28th February 7.30-9.30pm. The competition Bishop. Refreshments were served by Jean Bailey and culminates in a formal lunch and auction at Eynsham Margaret Partridge who also won the raffle. Hall on Saturday 10th March. The tickets for the Next meeting on the 15th March at the Village Hall lunch are £50 each, £25 of which goes straight to 7.45pm which will be our AGM after which we will have Open Doors. a supper with wine.

Ann Humphris (01865) 880983 The Trustees of the Friends of St. Peter’s would like to thank the members of the Cassington Consort and all others who participated for a very convivial evening in our beautiful Norman Church on Friday 23rd February. The music was played with great feeling. The readings BURLEIGH FARM were chosen with considerable care and expertly Traditional Farmhouse delivered. The whole evening gave us a sense that Spring was truly just around the corner. Bed and Breakfast Accommodation Afterwards the wine which was very generously donated Contact Jane Cook – 01865 881352 and light refreshments were enjoyed by everyone. Burleigh Farm, Road, Cassington The evening raised just over £580. Oxfordshire OX29 4EA It is occasions like this that are helping to preserve our Visit lovely church. If there is anyone who has an idea for www.oxfordcity.co.uk/accom/burleighfarm further fund raising please let the Trustees know. for more information Ninon Linnell (Chairman) St Peter’s Church

ST PETER’S CHURCH, CASSINGTON SERVICES MARCH 2007 Church Office: Eynsham Village Hall, Back Lane, Eynsham Mon–Thurs 9am–1pm Tel: 01865 883362 email: [email protected] Revd Morey Andrews: 45 Acre End Street, Eynsham, Oxon OX29 4PF Day off: Friday Tel: 01865 881323 email: [email protected]

Sunday 4 March Sunday 18 March Mothering Sunday 8am Holy Communion (BCP) 8am Holy Communion (BCP) Revd John Underwood Revd Andrew Atherstone 10am All-Age Worship 10am Morning Worship Nigel & Amanda Fancourt Revd Andrew Atherstone

Sunday 11 March Sunday 25 March 10am Holy Communion 10am Holy Communion Revd Morey Andrews Revd Andrew Atherstone 6pm Evening Prayer (BCP)

There is a service of Holy Communion at 9.30am on Tuesdays. Young people join our worship for the first 15 minutes of the 10am service and then go to the school for Sunday Club (3-10) and Soul Living (11+). We now also have a crèche for the under 3s. (Except All Age Worship when everyone stays in church.)

“It’s started! – From the skies they came! – They’re among us! – Watch out they’re here!”

All catch phrases from this year’s Easter advertisements unfairly traded goods, at artificially low prices, we enslave for Cadbury’s crème eggs? Chocolate at Easter is big many of the world’s poorest people in conditions and business. - Britain consumes an average of 24lbs (11.2kg) labour that are inhuman. of chocolate per person per year – more than any other European country! But what can we do? For this 200th anniversary of the abolition of the slavery We can make our voices heard via our buying power by journalist John Buckeridge, has researched the industry, being selective in what we buy. Buy ‘Fair-Trade’ chocolate saying this in a recent article: and other fairly traded goods wherever you can. Look out for fairly traded chocolate such as ‘Divine’ in the “Although the big chocolate manufacturers have made some supermarkets – it is good and it is there. efforts in recent years to improve the situation, adults, young people, and in some cases children are suffering inhumane Visit the fair-trade website www.fairtrade.org.uk and see living conditions and appalling wages to harvest the cocoa what else you can do. bean… The bible says Agricultural workers are enslaved into bonded labour – their “Do not take advantage of a hired man who is poor and labour demanded as a means to repay huge interest needy…” (Deut 24:14) payments on a small loan. Forced to work seven days a week for little or no wages – the spiralling interest rates mean they “Look! The wages you failed to pay the workmen who are enslaved for their whole life and their children after mowed your fields are crying out against you.” (James 5:4) them.”* Rev’d Roger Aston In many places in the Bible we are told to pay men and women fairly for their labour. - The slavery of 200 years * John Buckeridge is senior editor of Christianity magazine. ago seems completely abhorrent to us today yet by buying Article published in Nov 06 edition. parish notes

CASSINGTON PARISH COUNCIL Other correspondence was circulated to councillors. MEETING Held on 1 February 2007 Ditches, Drainage and Flooding (The draft notes below are subject to confirmation by the Parish Council on 1 March.) Flooding – the clerk reported that the Environment Agency required a Councillors Clive Wilkinson (chair), Kate Cropper, Iwan Hughes, Olaf Consent form to be submitted, as the work proposed by the council Rock and Shelia Nelson attended, plus seven members of the public, was within 8 meters of a critical watercourse. It had been frustrating Cllrs Frances Pike and Margaret Stevens (West Oxon) Cllr Louise to hear this, when previously the Environment Agency had not offered Chapman (Oxfordshire County Council) and the clerk Liz Bickley. any guidance. The council re-stated that this was emergency action to avoid homes flooding. However the consent form was obligatory and Matters arising from the Meeting held on 1 February should be completed as soon as possible. The clerk had been informed that the usual £50 fee could be waived. Meanwhile the quote from The police had followed up concerns raised at the last meeting at the Steve Long at £2800 plus VAT had been considered by the council. pavilion and playing field. The Neighbourhood Action Group had This was felt to be a significant expense for the council but the work been informed of the slow progress on speeding enforcement with had to be undertaken, as soon as EA approval had been obtained. Safer Roads Partnership. Chief Inspector Evernden had written to all parish councils about how the police intended to meet demands across Cllr Stevens reported that the WODC engineer John Clarke was . leaving. Another officer Kevin Jacks was dealing with flooding at Jericho Farm. An architect’s plan of land to be transferred from Chequers-stone to Village Hall was required at 1:100 scale. Stanger Stacey solicitors, The clerk had contacted Blenheim estate about responsibility for acting for the Parish Council as Village Hall Trustees, had the previous ditches, as they owned the land around the playing field except where correspondence and should be asked to look therein. Elms Road properties stood.. The EA stated that watercourses were shared by the land owners on either side. Blenheim estates’ informal A £250 prize from the Village of the Year competition had been view was that there was no duty of care. banked. Suggestions for its use included a sign of village footpaths, circular walks and points of interest. Cllr Rock offered to obtain a The clerk was asked to write to Blenheim to describe the work to be quote. He also suggested obtaining postcards of the village, as small undertaken. print runs might not be too expensive nowadays. Postcards might be more welcomed by the community, e.g. the school and many residents Maintenance would be interested. Cllr Rock again offered to find out costs. A40 The footpath and cycle way improvements would be followed up Correspondence by Cllr Chapman. Oxfordshire County Council had written to all parishes about the Bus Shelter – it was not clear how the A40 bus shelter had been proposal of Oxford City Council to reorganise local authorities in damaged, but a new one had been ordered by Primesite Media and Oxfordshire. The government has invited bids. The City proposal would be ready in about three months. Cllr Stevens said that she had would result in the removal of Oxfordshire County Council (OCC). raised the question of timetables at a recent meeting and Stagecoach West Oxfordshire would merge with Cherwell District Council to form had apologised for timetables not being specific to the bus stop; they a new authority. South Oxfordshire and the Vale would also merge. would look into improving this. Cllr Chapman gave more details. The new authorities would have to take over education, social services, highways etc. There were political Traffic and financial aspects to consider. The Government will be deciding Vehicle Activated Signs. A meeting had been held with Andrew whether bids can go forward in March. Therefore anyone with strong Greasley of OCC. He had located good positions for VASs, on views should register their views with Ruth Kelly as soon as possible. Eynsham Road and Yarnton Road. The cost increased if the sign was Cllr Stevens mentioned that some services would be easier to organise not adjacent to mains electricity and this meant that at Cassington e.g. waste collection and disposal. Councils were being urged to work Nurseries, where the electricity supply would need to be brought more closely together through a new Local Government White Paper. Councillors were not happy with the unitary authorities proposal and under the road, the cost was £4,300. The Eynsham Road sign would be agreed to write to Ruth Kelly, with copies to OCC and WODC and £2,800. The total cost was over £2,000 higher than expected. Cllr David Cameron. Chapman said there were sources in OCC including Better Ways to School which she would investigate. The clerk had written to the A survey of housing strategy had been issued by WODC and Cllr school to ask for VASs to be included in their Travel Plan. Hanson had Nelson agreed to look into this and discuss it with the council at a mid offered 50% of costs up to £2,500. The council had agreed to spend month meeting. £2,500. WODC had asked for a meeting about the Conservation Area. As this had aroused much public interest in the past, it was agreed to find out more, before arranging a time for the meeting next month. DIRTY CARPETS? UPHOLSTERY? CURTAINS?

A letter had been received from the Diocese supporting small rural CALL schools. Cllr Chapman said that the purpose of the current OCC review of primary school provision was to seek a long term future for small schools. Working together with other small schools, sharing GRIMEBUSTERS costs, was one option if numbers were low. The council noted that YOUR LOCAL PROFESSIONAL CLEANING FIRM community involvement was important. High housing costs made it difficult for families to live here. www.grimebusters.co.uk A certificate had been presented to the Royal British Legion, as QUALITY WORK • COMPETITIVE PRICES • DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL Cassington had won second place in the 2006 best kept War Memorial competition. The chairman thanked Cllr and Mrs Hughes and Cllr STAIN PROTECTION • ORIENTAL RUGS • PRE/POST OCCUPANCY CLEANING Cropper for arranging planting and mowing. Cllr Rock suggested FLOOD & FIRE CLEAN-UP/DRYING • INSURANCE WORK UNDERTAKEN having this certificate and others displayed, and agreed to raise it with For free estimates or advice, please call: the Village Hall Management Committee. The certificates could also Oxford (01865) 726983 Abingdon (01235) 555533 Witney (01993) 868924 be scanned and placed on the website. The clerk was asked to write to residents at the proposed sites for the Burial Ground Reservations signs, and to check whether there would be a formal consultation by OCC. Over the years, plots have been reserved in the burial ground by local residents. Some of the people who have Play Area made reservations have moved away, and we do not have The fence posts were not all secure and work would be needed before an address for them. It would be helpful to be able to long. Bark was also needed. contact the following: Mr and Mrs J Cracknell – reservation made in 1988 Burial Ground Mr and Mrs S Hedges – reservation made in 1988 It was agreed to try to trace people who had made reservations but Mr and Mrs PJ Smith – reservation made in 1987 were no longer known, with a newsletter advert. If you have any contact details for these people, I should Finance be grateful if you would let me know. Payment of the following invoices was agreed: Liz Bickley (Mrs) Clerk to Parish Council , Orchard St Peter’s School hall £15.00 House, Mill Street, Eynsham OX29 4JY. Tel: 01865 884496 email: [email protected] WODC Play area inspection £43.25 plus VAT

Planning Unitary Authorities 59 Eynsham Rd Cassington Conversion of existing garage and study to form self contained annex. Alterations and erection of single and There could be great changes ahead. The structure of two-storey rear extensions, by Mr R Buckner WODC ref 07/0045/P/FP. County Council and District Council in Oxfordshire might change. This would mean a great deal of re- The council had concerns about the extra units of accommodation being created in Eynsham Road at this and another address. However organisation of local services such as education, highways Highways had no concerns over extra traffic. There was no objection to and social services. The financial implications are the extension itself. uncertain, but would affect YOU via Council Tax. The Laurels 4 Yarnton Road – replacement of porches. No objection. The Government has invited bids from areas which want Permission had been granted by WODC for: new unitary authorities. Some areas already have unitary The Elms, Yarnton Rd, Cassington. Extend existing Cellar and authorities (e.g. Berkshire). Oxford City Council wishes erection of single storey extension to form Garden Room. By Mr and to become a unitary authority. It is therefore proposing Mrs J Thompson WODC ref 06/2185/P/FP that the county council is removed and its functions Planning meeting to take place on 15 February, the Old Vicarage. transferred to three new unitary authorities: City, West Oxfordshire together with Cherwell, and South Any Other Business Oxfordshire together with Vale of the White Horse. Cllr Chapman spoke about the OCC budget and predicted council tax. The parish council will not be directly affected. However Wheelie bins (Cllr Hughes left the room). Cllr Hughes had reported a the council has decided to object to the proposal which it problem with bins left out from Thursdays to Mondays/Tuesday, near feels is most unlikely to offer value for money. There will his home. Cllr Stevens said that there was no offence unless be more news about the proposal after the Government obstructing a public highway. However it was agreed by the council to reviews it, in March. write, asking for consideration of neighbours. Offers of help to move bins were received. Cllr Pike was concerned about the potential for an accident arising Junior Citizen Oxfordshire from a stray animal on the road. The Dog Warden did not have a remit to help and perhaps the police could help (clerk to contact). Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue safety education. There is an appeal for funding for an education programme for Year The May meeting of the council would have to relocate because the 6 pupils, based on real life “sets”. More information from Village Hall would be a polling station. The school was available. Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, Service Delivery The meeting was suspended for Questions from the Public Headquarters, Rewley Rd, Oxford OX1 2EH 01865 Motorbikes were a nuisance again on the playing field; report to police. 242223 [email protected] or An error in last month’s newsletter PC report was noted: the parish [email protected] council had paid the school £15 for hall hire not £315. A question about traffic calming humps was raised: they could not be used where there was no street lighting. Casssington Conservation Area – Protection and enhancement Mr Waters thanked all the volunteers who kept up the War Memorial. New WODC leaflets are available on Cassington’s The meeting was resumed. conservation area, and the planning policies which can Date of Next Meeting help protect the village’s buildings, open spaces, views and The next meeting will be on Thursday 1 March 2007 at 7.30 p.m. in the landscape. Contact the Clerk if you would like a copy. Village Hall. All welcome! Liz Bickley Tel: 01865 884496 email: Liz Bickley 01865 884496 [email protected] [email protected] Cassington Cricket Club ‘The Terrace’ Poolside Café Umpires SOS! If you know the rules of cricket, or at least some of them, then Cassington Cricket Club would love Worton Park, Cassington to hear from you. We need an umpire to represent the Require a part time catering assistant to serve village and take charge of matches around the OCA light snacks and buffet style lunches. League (oddly, not actually Cassington – they are worried about match fixing or something). This is a very attractive Experience preferred but not essential as job: you get paid (contract negotiable); you get fed (teas training will be given. can be very good); and you get the opportunity to spend 9.30am – 2.30pm Monday to Friday your Saturday afternoon in the sun at some of Oxfordshire’s prettiest villages. The only negative is that Interested? Please call the Worton Farm Office on you do have to stay awake for the duration of the game. If 01865 882644 for further details. you are interested, even if you are only available to do a few matches, please let us know: e-mail – [email protected]; phone David Cole on 01993 779726; or inform the Red Lion grapevine. Carbon Savers Action Day in West Oxfordshire: Saturday, March 3, 2007 A Carbon Savers Action Day is taking place on Saturday, Summer is on the way and Cassington Cricket March 3, at Langdale Hall, Witney, organised by West Club is looking for new players! Oxfordshire District Council in conjunction with Thames The 2007 campaign starts on the 5th May away at Valley Energy Centre to raise awareness about climate Steventon, with the club aiming for promotion into change and the need to reduce carbon emissions across the OCA Division 5. Practice nets start the first week West Oxfordshire. of April at the Elms Road Sports ground – Tuesdays For more information, call the free carbon-savers helpline from 6pm. All standard of players are more than on 0800 028 2855, visit www.carbon-savers.co.uk, or welcome. Just turn up – no equipment necessary. If telephone the Council on 01993 861000. you’d like to come along and watch, home games start at 2pm on Saturdays. Admission is free - bring the kids and a picnic and make use of the play area and the sunshine! Fixtures are on our website – www.cassingtoncricket.co.uk. Watch this space over the summer for updates on how the team is doing.

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Call on 01865-882550 or email [email protected] for a free quotation A drama worth seeing PART TIME JOB VACANCY In April, Oxfordshire Touring Theatre Company will bring their spring production to our Village Hall. Cassington Nurseries The Falling Sky is a richly rewarding story based on extensive research with people living in rural Oxfordshire, To work Saturdays and/or Sundays at our nursery and charts the fascinating stories of five local residents serving customers and working with plants over the course of a year. Please apply in writing or by email C/O OTTC have an impressive record and brought the highly Andy Kerr, Cassington Nurseries entertaining Firebird to the Village Hall last month, as well as last year’s productions of Beauty and the Beast and Yarnton Road, Cassington, Witney, Oxon a fascinating version of Under Milk Wood. [email protected] For The Falling Sky, writer Brendan Murray, artistic Hours 10am – 4.30pm rate of pay £6.50 per hour director of OTTC, toured villages, farms and pubs in the area to interview people living in the countryside, capturing their voices and hearing how their lives have been affected by changes in farming. By the time he was Specialist footcare in the ready to write the play he had collected so much material comfort of your own home he felt like he had enough for several plays. The play addresses one of the key problems in rural • All aspects of footcare communities – farm land is of more value to property developers than to farmers. Much of the story revolves • Specialist advice around Sally, a farmer’s wife. The farm isn’t paying its way • Over 17 years and she and her husband find themselves in a dilemma experience over whether or not to sell a small piece of woodland which has been in the family for generations to solve their State Registered financial problems. Podiatrist (Chiropodist) Rebecca Tyrrell BSc Hons PGDip MChS (HPC Reg’d) The production mixes live music, humour, contemporary Tel: 01993 880225 issues and strong emotions – guaranteed to make you smile, wonder and wipe away a tear. Friday 6th April, 7.30pm, Cassington Village Hall Leigh Edwards & Co www.leighedwards.com See ‘what’s’ on for details divorce and family law specialist Heritage Grants pre-marriage and living together agreements ~ cohabitation issues West Oxfordshire District Council is offering grants to divorce separation and children disputes support the development of heritage opportunities in the weekend and evening appointments available ~ friendly sensible advice District. easy parking Voluntary museums and local history organisations can for a free intial consultation call apply for grants of between £100 and £500. This funding is available to support local heritage projects that will 01865 378243 benefit the communities of West Oxfordshire. Regulated by 41 Rutten Lane Yarnton Oxon The Law Society Examples of previous projects that have been supported by these grants include improvements to museum displays, temporary exhibitions, local history publications and the development of educational support materials for school visits to museums. To be eligible for the grant, applicants must have a constitution and identified aims and objectives. Museums must be registered or able to demonstrate a commitment to achieving the new phase of Museum Registration, Accreditation. The closing date for applications is 15th April 2007. For further details and a copy of the application form please contact Leisure and Tourism on 01993 861080 or email [email protected] ATTENTION ALL LOCAL BUSINESSES M & M SKIP HIRE LTD Worton Park, Cassington Do you wish to promote your services and products to a wider local audience? Then this year’s Forest Fair could be the place for you. Sunday 2nd Sept. 2007, Capp’s Lodge Farm, Swinbrook. Since its inception in 2000, the Wychwood Forest Fair has become the most popular local environmental show in Oxfordshire and is regularly attracting 4000 local visitors, with 150 different stalls. The Fair is organised and run by the Friends of Wychwood to raise funds in support of the Wychwood Project, which was awarded the Queen’s Do you have a woodburner or an open fire? Award for Voluntary Service in 2006. Would you be interested in having wood Part of the Wychwood Project’s concept is to help and delivered to your door? support local businesses and communities, and the Forest M & M Skip Hire Ltd. (Cassington) Fair is doing that very effectively. can deliver a megabag of offcuts (untreated timber) for just £25 Here is an opportunity to get your message in front of or thousands of local people who have the time to look and a megabag of sawn logs for £50 talk to you. We can offer spaces either inside or outside If this offer is of interest to you, please ring: the trading marquee, advertising space within the Forest Fair programme, or you may wish to sponsor the event 01865 880559 with banners or logos on display. quoting ‘WO141106’ Contact: Ken Betteridge on 01993 878615 REDUCE RECYCLE REUSE THE CHEQUERS INN

Food now available seven days a week From Monday 12th February we will also be serving food on Sunday evenings, Monday~ lunch and evenings Monday night Quiz Nights are back Starting on Monday 12th~ February from 8.30pm Monday Lunch Club 2 courses only £8.95 from~ Monday 12th February Chequers Pie and a Pint only £7.50 12 – 2 and 6.30 – 8.30 Monday to Friday

The Chequers Inn, Cassington offers à la carte and bar menus, for lunch (12 to 2.30) and evenings (6.30 to 9.30) seven days a week. Also a cracking Sunday Lunch (12 to 2.30) with a free roast for children of 10 or under. Quality en-suite rooms with breakfast also available. For information or reservations, please call 01865 882620 what’s on?

CASSINGTON CAFÉ Cassington Bookworms CASSINGTON VILLAGE HALL Join us on Monday 5th March at 8pm at MONDAY 5th MARCH 10 am – 12 noon the house of Margaret Bonfiglioli (The Old Manor, Bell Lane, Cassington). At the moment we are reading Saturday by Ian McEwan. CINEMA IN CASSINGTON For further information call 01865 880709 The next Cassington Village Hall film presentation will be: CASSINGTON WI The Queen THURSDAY 15th MARCH 7.45 pm Friday 9th March at 7.30pm THE VILLAGE HALL Doors open 7.00pm AGM followed by supper Dame Helen Mirren and Michael Sheen star in this Bafta and Oscar nominated movie, described by Empire Magazine as “fascinating, funny, wicked and to the point, Night of a thousand stars this is an excellent film about a week every Briton over the age of 15 will remember vividly”. Certificate 12A The highs and lows of the Cassington Players’ recent pantomime, Aladdin, will be celebrated at the Cassington Baftas 2007 on A FEW TICKETS REMAINING Saturday 10th March. A few tickets are available to the public, Tickets on sale now, £3 each price £15 per person to include cocktails, three course dinner, Carolyn Hinton 884458, Amanda Fancourt 880581 or Nicky Copelin 881813 wine, entertainment, awards glitz and glamour. Call Nicky on 881813 to reserve your place at this red carpet event. Cassington Village Hall films are provided by “Movies on the Move” - a project run by Theatre and West Oxfordshire District Council with funding from the European Community Leader Plus initiative.

The CCLRC is one of Europe’s largest multidisciplinary research organisations. ‘Talking science’ is one strand of its Science and Society programme which aims to inform and enthuse young people and the public about current and future science and engineering. Talking Science Lectures for schools and the public

Wednesday 7 March 7pm (please note change from the usual day) Recommended age for children 11+ Enigma Project Presenters from the Enigma Schools Project The falling sky is a richly rewarding story based on extensive An interactive presentation introduces students to cryptography – research with people living in rural Oxfordshire and charts the the science and mathematics of codes and code breaking. fascinating stories of five local residents over the course of a Pupils meet various ciphers that have been used throughout year. The production mixes live music, humour, contemporary history from Ancient Greece to WW2. Presentations involve issues and strong emotions – guaranteed to make you smile, audience participation and all students see a genuine WW2 wonder and wipe away a tear. Enigma machine in action, find out how it worked and discover why it is one of the most famous cipher machines of all time Friday 6th April, 7.30pm

Booking information Cassington Village Hall Admission is free but booking is essential as places are limited. Booking opens four weeks prior to the lecture. To reserve places please Tickets from Carolyn Hinton 01865 884458 either email [email protected] or phone 01235 445959 (24hr answerphone) and leave a message. Please include the following information: The title of the lecture, the time you want to come, the number of places you require, your name, full postal address and a contact COMING SOON TO THE VILLAGE HALL ... telephone number. For the comfort and enjoyment of the audience, a recommended age is given for each lecture. Children under 16 must be Friday 13th April, 6.00pm Flushed Away (Film, U) accompanied by, and sit with, a responsible adult. Thank you. Friday 11th May, 7.30pm Some Like it Hot (Film, PG) Witney Older People’s Information Fair Langdale Hall, Witney. Thursday 19th April. 10.00am–2.30pm. The Pension Service, the District Council, the NHS and Garden Gallery the County Council’s Trading Standards department have been pulling out all the stops, alongside Age Concern 13th January – 25th March Living Waterways Interactive exploration of life on the canals Oxfordshire and a whole range of other organisations, to and waterways and a chance to explore life on a narrowboat. put together a first rate programme for this event – not just informative, but also good fun! Treasures Gallery and Picture Gallery 3rd March – 22nd September Mary Daniel, Age Concern’s Chief Executive says: “If you Oxford in the 1950s Touring exhibition of photographs from the are over 50, there will be something at the Fair for you. Thomas Photographic Collection. A nostalgic look at leisure and labour in the 1950s produced by the Oxfordshire Record Office. We hope that as many people as possible will drop in Also photographic equipment and memorabilia to take you back during the day and take advantage of in time. the masses of information as well as Kids’ Club for 8-12 year olds and Free Family Drop-ins during the activities. half term and school holidays Telephone 01993 814111 for The events will cover a whole range details. of issues of importance to older Childrens’ Back Packs, Craft Cart, Trails and Gallery interactives Available during Museum opening hours all year round FREE people: health, independence, safety, leisure, transport, finance and much more, with many experts on hand to Young Archaeologists Club Oxfordshire Branch for children aged 8-16 years. Monthly meetings either at the Museum or provide information, answer questions and offer free off-site for a wide range of activities. For a membership form or taster sessions in Tai Chi and exercise. further information telephone 01993 814103

Friends of the Oxfordshire Museum - Lectures 7th March Nature Photography, Oxfordshire and Beyond BLENHEIM 7K Mike Amphlett, Photographer Lectures start at 7.30pm Visitors are welcome. Admission £2 N Museum Learning Centre FFUNN RRUUNN On the first floor of the museum. computers available for your U own research or access to the internet.

AND 1 MILE JUNIOR RUN Museum Coffee Shop and garden Tea and coffee, light snacks and lunches. Tables on decking for Sunday 29 April 2007 use during warm weather. Lovely garden to relax in with spring A new, scenic course using flowers now flowering.. footpaths and trails in the beautiful grounds of Museum opening hours , Woodstock Tuesday - Saturday 10am-5pm Sunday 2-5pm Bank Holiday Mondays open 2-5pm Entry forms available from the St Peter’s School Office For bookings and information please telephone the Registration is not available museum on 01993 811456 on the day and numbers will be limited, so register early. EASTER ACTIVITIES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE West Oxfordshire District Council have a fun-packed Longlands Summer Fete programme of activities and sporting opportunities again this Easter. Longlands Nursing Home will be holding their Summer Fete on Saturday 16th June 2007 from 2.00–4.00pm. Activities include climbing, fencing, archery, kung-fu, golf, cricket, soccer, swimming, tennis, canoeing and more. There will be stalls, raffle and tombola, and this year we If you want to know more, telephone or call in and pick up welcome “Chrissie’s Owls”. Chrissie runs an owl rescue at a leaflet from a WODC leisure centre. and will be bringing some of her rescued birds and talking about them. Carterton Leisure Centre 01993 861981 Chipping Norton Leisure Centre 01993 861951 Please put this date in your diary and come and support us. Windrush Leisure Centre, Witney 01993 202020 Green light for green waste collections to continue CASSINGTON PRE-SCHOOL PLAYGROUP West Oxfordshire District Council is re-launching its • We are a small, friendly playgroup Green Waste Scheme in April following its successful • We have our own building and outdoor play area introduction last year. • Open to 2-5 year olds • Sessions run from 9 - 11.30 Between April and December 2006, 2,750 District • High ratio of adults to children householders signed up to have their garden waste • We plan activities at all levels and abilities collected from their doorsteps. This resulted in 880 • Free sessions for age 3+ tonnes of green waste being recycled into compost and (Nursery Education scheme) diverted from landfill. Find us in the grounds of St Peters School, Cassington.

This year’s Green Waste Scheme will be available for up to For further information, please contact: 4,000 residents across the District, at a cost of £30 per Mrs Vanessa Gregory (Chairperson) 01865 731348 household for the year. In return for their £30, Mrs Hazel Petty (Admissions) 01865 883545 householders will receive a green-lidded wheelie bin and Playgroup phone (playgroup hours) 01865 881114 their waste will be picked up fortnightly until April 2008. All of the waste will then be taken to Agrivert at Radford, near Chipping Norton, and turned into compost. Attention all Parents Bookstart - Free Books for Children! As an incentive, each resident who signs up to the scheme before 16 March will be entered into a free prize draw to Do you know that Bookstart provides 3 different gifts for win one of five £30 garden centre vouchers. 3 different age ranges containing books and other goodies and it’s all free. People can join the scheme and make their payment by logging onto www.westoxon.gov.uk or by direct debit. The Bookstart Baby pack is available for babies aged up to Alternatively, they can call 01993 861020 to pay by debit 12 months. Your baby will be given a pack by the health or credit card or to request an application form by post, visitor at the 8 month health check or email [email protected]. The Bookstart+ pack is available for toddlers between 18 – 30 months and can be collected from the library or the health visitor if your child has a 2 year check. So please go to the library and ask for your toddler’s Bookstart+ pack. NEW My Bookstart Treasure Chest is available to 3 year olds and is delivered to your child’s pre-school. If your child Introduction to HAND and NAIL care does not attend a pre-school collect your Treasure Chest A 4 week course at from the library. Forever Young Health & Beauty Salon If you run a pre-school and have not given the Bookstart An introduction to basic practical skills to achieve co-ordinator the number of 3 year olds in your setting, beautiful looking hands and healthy nails. please contact her as soon as possible to ensure delivery by August 2007. A practical workshop, you will have the For more information contact the Bookstart opportunity to learn about basic manicure, hand Co-ordinator for Oxfordshire on 01865 810243. massage and different styles of nail polishing Or visit the web site at www.bookstart.org.uk including French Paint. Course Starts on Tuesday 6th March, 18.30 - 21.00 Further information on 01865 884096 Holiday bungalow to let Penstowe Park, Nr. Bude, N. Cornwall A brand new luxury three bedroom bungalow with master ensuite. Sleeps six. Finished to the latest style & standards. The park facilities include: Swimming pool, Sports hall, Restaurant & Cabaret suite. Available all year round. Elena Shand For more information call Yvonne or Dave The Gables, Bell Lane, Cassington, Oxon OX29 4DS on 01865 883836. Visit our new web site. Tel: 01865 884096 Fax: 01865 883301 www.cornwall-holiday-bungalow.co.uk Beauty therapy Aroma therapy Reflexology Electrolysis NON-SMOKING SORRY, NO PETS More of Roy’s Ramblings ... No.33

Another of the Cassington oldies has passed on, Harry was dug round Maidenhead, otherwise if the water was let Booker. Only the older members of the parish will remember off too fast it would have flooded the centre of Maidenhead. him, Harry with his bit of stutter and dry sense of humour Going on to the winds we are having, we sent Dennis You may remember back a bit I said that I had a White out with the wrecker to pull a van back up on to its photograph that Harry gave me of him stood by one of my wheels along the A34 between the A40 and Botley flyover, Uncle’s Foden steam trucks in the pit that is the Truck this is a number of years ago, he got some one to ring in and Centre, Harry was drivers mate at about 14. He I think had say send another wrecker, as he had pulled it up and the to apply the brakes also help shovel the load off. Harry was wind had blown it over again, he wanted another vehicle to a good member of staff, I had a long conversation with him anchor it down. on the phone not many days before he passed away, I hope As I said attending several funerals did open up a number they roll cigarettes where he has gone as he could roll the of memories, how being younger one did adapt to repairing thinnest cigarette there was. We reckoned he smoked more different things, I think the Lads and Lasses, as there are paper than tobacco, maybe that is why it did not affect him. Lasses working as Fitters, sorry Technicians, do miss out Thank you Harry for being a very loyal member of staff. because you would not get a stationery engine to repair one Also Mrs Ruth Brooks nee Ruth Hale, sister of Jim Hale minute a car the next maybe a tractor, could you come and who ran Thames Mead Farm, after his father. At Ruth’s have a look at my milking machine it does not seem to work cremation a lady who met her to learn about a lot of the so well, then I have just broken my hitch on the tractor, or History of Cassington, gave a lovely eulogy of Ruth. Ruth the dung spreader is not working, usually something seized had a picture of me with her and her pony and cart, I was up with all the muck round it, or a bearing got fed up with about 6 years old. not being greased. I think I may have told you before that we became great Then one of the sand gravel or stone pit customers would friends with the Hales, as we supplied Jim with his wife. ring in, we have got a bearing gone on the washing plant, or Mrs Hale, nee Miss Queeny Foster, became my second the sand screen is not working, or the old Priestman cub has Mum as when Dad farmed at , the farm just a head gasket gone or the clutch has gone on the bigger outside the Rousham Park gates where I was born (outside Priestman, the pump engine has packed up on the washing the gates). Mum was helping full time with the farm. At plant the one at Perwell Farm was right down on the river, it lambing time she could have up to 20 or 30 small lambs to usually happened when it was raining good and proper. bottle feed as their mothers had died when they were born. There is a truck coming in with gearbox trouble, or tipper Some of these lambs became almost pets, they came in and trouble, a van with a misfire or not charging, we dealt with out of the rear of the house, and there was very little mess all makes of vehicle then, a lot of people round here would caused by them. One, called Lotty I think, took a box of not look at the bigger trucks I don’t know why, after all an washing powder which had been opened and went right engine is an engine, whether it is petrol or diesel, the valves through the house upstairs and down when every one was have to open and shut at the right time the fuel petrol or out side busy, and left a trail where ever she had been. diesel get to the right place at the right time to fire in the So Mum advertised for a lass to look after me and help in cylinder, petrol through suction through the carburettor the house. This lass applied, she had been very ill was very diesel through the injector pump. I know you have petrol pale and wafer thin, she lived with an uncle at Launton out injection now, electronic ignition etc, a bit too technical for by Bicester. Well, Dad said to Mum you have not taken that us oldies. thing on have you Mum said yes she seems a very sensible I don’t think I mentioned the fact that when I did the girl, Dad said she will never survive out here. eulogy for Pete Batchan, the driver that brought the chief Well survive she did and put on weight, Jenny as Dad mourners came to me after the service and said, when he nicknamed her, because there was a lot of leg pulling, when came into the Chapel and saw me he could not think where she was upset she sniffed, there was a steam train called he had seen me, when my name was given out he said he sniffing Jenny so that was where she got her nickname from. remembered straight away. Years back he worked for the The name stuck for years. She maintained that it was RAC as a patrol man, and I helped them out no end, when laughing put on her weight, they were all very hard up but they got truck with problems they always could rely on me could laugh about it. I was a hefty babe and one day she was getting them out of trouble. I think I said way back that Jim pushing me in a pram up the hill by the farm and a lorry Wakefield at Probus said I know you, he was a copper in driver pulled up and said get him out of the pram Miss you charge of St Aldate’s police station, I said I don’t remember get in and let him push you. I think I called her Wovey I you arresting me, I did cope with large truck breakdowns for think that was the best I could for Miss Foster, I was not you. He said got you, boy you sure got us out of trouble a allowed to call her Jenny for years. lot of times, (I hope I don’t repeat myself and blow my When we moved to Manor Farm, Cassington, Jenny trumpet too much) but it does show what a mixture of things came with us. I think she met Jim at one of the village we did. I have been asked did you not worry that you would dances, that was it, they got married, hence the tie up with not be able to do the jobs you took on, I can say frankly we the Hale family. I eventually became chief executor for Jims never thought of failure, I must say sometimes I did wonder estate. why ever we took the job on, I don’t ever remember having Going back to the floods we have had lately, these were abandoned one, life was never boring, very often not much worse when we first came to live at the Mill, I am not enough hours in the day. sure if I mentioned it before, but they would be worse than they are now if it were not for the fact that a water bypass More next time. Roy. noticeboard

Village Dates for DREAM STUDIOS Village Hall Bookings

your diary DRAMA - DANCE - MUSIC Unless shown, events are in the Village Hall MASKS - SOUND RECORDING VIDEO - SHOWS March 2007 PROFESSIONAL TUITION Thursday 1st March, 7.30pm AFFORDABLE FEES Parish Council Meeting AGES 6-14, ALL WELCOME For information and to book the Monday 5th March, 10am to 12 noon Village Hall, contact: Cassington Café Nicky Copelin 01865 880476 FOR DETAILS The New House, The Green, Cassington Monday 5th March, 8.00pm www.dream-studios.co.uk Tel: 01865 881813 Cassington Bookworms Email: [email protected] The Old Manor, Bell Lane Friday 9th March, 7.30pm The Queen - film, 12A Do you know there is a free Saturday 10th March, 8.00pm BOOK CASE service to Cassington The Cassington BAFTAS Pine, approx 77x24x10” See ‘what’s on for details residents that will take you to with adjustable shelves and the doctors’ or hospital? fluted edges – £20 Thirsday 15th March, 7.45pm WI AGM and Supper LOW WARDROBE Pine, approx 37x47x20” April 2007 Childs tall-boy wardrobe, Friday 6th April, 7.30pm half hanging space, quarter cupboard, Oxfordshire Touring Theatre Company quarter drawers – £20 The Falling Sky This is run by volunteers and is Call Kevin on 884458 Friday 13th April, 7.30pm available by phoning: Flushed Away - film, U Pam Turner 880492 or Pat Vereker 880693 HATE IRONING? May 2007 Please give us as much Friday 11th May, 7.30pm notice as possible THEN TAKE IT TO ELSIE @ Some like it Hot - film, PG 15, ELMS ROAD, CASSINGTON Tel. 01865 882168 for further details Tickets for films and shows from: Carolyn Hinton (01865 884458) Amanda Fancourt (01865 880581) Are you making the most of CAWN? Baby and toddler group Join us for a drink and a chat Visit Cassington This space could have Tuesdays community web site ... been yours. Lisa Tyler 880619 www.cassington.info for more information

Pretty hand-made BABYSITTING? AVON cards ODD JOBS? Call Johnny (17) or Lydie (15) Horgan CALLING In a variety of mediums using real pressed flowers, 3D images, painting on acetate, 01865 881480 Hello! My name is Julie Perrin and paper flowers, ribbon and glitter etc. I am Cassington’s Avon Lady! Cards made for all ages. If you would like a friendly and convenient Special occasions and orders can be made. door to door service for all your toiletries, Prices vary from approximately noticeboard ... make-up and luxuries, please contact me any £1.80 to £4.50. For local services, ‘for sale’ or similar weekday morning on 01865 881371 for your Carol Baldwin, Silver Birches, Yarnton Road free catalogue. notices, please send copy (by email if Cassington Oxon OX29 4DY possible) to the usual address. I will be pleased to add you to my round. Tel. No. 01865 881454 Julie Perrin, Red Lion E-mail:[email protected] Appropriate notices are FREE, but will only be placed at our discretion.