No.97 February 2013 Annual Subscription: £6 SJ & LE MIDDLE Mussel End Farm Meats SEVEN TOWERS’ Traditional Farm Butchers BENEFICE MAGAZINE  Still the most competitive price on mince and stew — guaranteed all beef!! Neigh! Yeah!  Take advantage of present low prices on lamb! Mmmmmmm! Melt in the mouth!

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All British produce reared on the farm.

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Nurseries and Garden Centre for all your gardening needs

DUNDRY TELEFLORIST-Your flowers delivered anywhere

PONDEROSA PET SUPPLIES - Pets and Pet products Church of United Benefice of:

“THE WITCHES BREW” - Coffee Shop

Dundry Nurseries .....Altogether a better place to shop Twigworth including Longford; Down

Bamfurlong Lane, Hatherley; OPEN 7 DAYS 01452 713124 Norton; The Leigh with Evington; Sandhurst; Staverton with Boddington. 36 1

WHO’S WHO IN THE BENEFICE FIREWOOD FOR SALE

Rector: Revd Martin Thompson: 01452 731994 Seasoned Ash and Oak split firewood available for Email: [email protected] collection or delivery in 300kg bags or 15kg nets (Please note: Mondays are my rest days!) Contact:- Woodsman Matt Shaw 07921 680052 Associate Ministers: Canon David Godwin 01452 730435 Or email:- [email protected] Father David Humphries 01452 529582 Boddington Estates Ltd, Boddington House Farm. 01242 680609 Chris Lane (Reader) 01452 520662

Seven Towers Benefice online at: www.seventowers.org.uk The Cheltenham Seriously Rich Church House, Church Lane, Churchwardens: Fruit Cake Company Staverton, Glos, GL51 0TW Down Hatherley Ann Warriner 01452 730371 Andy Nicol 01452 730025 Birthday? Anniversary? Wedding? Christening? Present? The Leigh & Evington Mrs Sue Roberts 01242 680835 Looking for a delicious, high quality cake for that special occasion? Mrs Pat Arkell 01242 680262 Then try our home-baked organic rich fruit cake and decorate it to suit the occasion Norton Mr Simon Trapnell 07774 803177 Round and square cakes from 4 to 14 inches available Mrs Jean Smith 01452 730265 Order your cakes directly by telephone or via our website Sandhurst Mr Jim Brown 01452 731900 01242 681139 / www.cheltenhamorganicfruitcake.co.uk Mr Pat Collins 01452 731567 Staverton with Boddington Mr Edmund McClure 01242 681139 Mrs Gillian Parker-Dodd 01242 680784 R.J.C. AUTOS LTD incorporating Twigworth & Longford Mr Chris Baldwin 01452 534105 King Street M.O.T. Centre Mr Steve Riddick 01452 712447 Enquiries about baptisms, marriages and funerals should be directed to the Rector. M.O.T.’s • Servicing • Welding • Repairs

COVER Tel. 01242 513857 or 01242 228238 Milsom Street, Cheltenham, Glos, GL50 4BA "Candlemas" Feast Day 2U Services February 2nd Mobile Caravan and Motorhome care www.2Uservices.co.uk Presentation at the Temple 2U Services is now a fully approved mobile workshop and can carry out “in warranty” services at your home, on site or in storage. by Giovanni Bellini - 1460-64 - Tempera on wood Galleria Querini Stampalia, Venice. Call Stewart for more details 07768 25 24 20 (anytime) or 01242 680889 (evenings)

Printed by Classic Printing Ltd. Tel. 01452 731539 2 35

 FROM THE STUDY WINDOW COLIN BARNFATHER IT In the depths of winter, we all like to have a warm glow around. It might be an BA CEng MIET MRAeS MCMI open fire (although the central heating’s often more convenient!!) or it might be

the glow of candlelight. It’s strange that candlelight can bring a sense of Computer Training in Your Own Home warmth even though the room is cold. One to one instruction and trouble shooting The beginning of February sees a Christian festival that even includes the word

“candle” in its name. Candlemas is celebrated on 3rd February and to give it its 01242 680877 www.colinbarnfather.co.uk longer name is “The Presentation of Christ at the temple”. The young Jesus was taken by his parents to the temple in Jerusalem where they would thank God for the birth of their child and commit themselves to bring Him up as a follower of God.

A company that’s at the very But what’s candles got to do with it ? Traditionally it was the day when candles Heart of the community. were distributed to church members for use during the following year. But the name is coined from what happened at the temple. There was a priest at the The Robert Hitchins Group temple called Simeon. God had promised that, before he died, he would see the Messiah, the Saviour of the World. Simeon’s words when he first saw Jesus Boddington Manor, Cheltenham 680694 have become part of the worship tradition of the church Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, accord- ing to thy word: For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; a TWIGWORTH BREAKERS LTD light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. (Luke 2:29-32) New & Used Car Spares 7 Days a Week Simeon saw the light !! Jesus was the one who, if people chose to follow His way, We also have a large selection of mowers (including ride-ons), was going to change the lives of everyone. He was going to be the guiding light new Quads, accident damaged motor bikes, and towbars and towing equipment for the world. All would be well. Tel: Gloucester (01452) 730125 or 730652 It’s strange to reflect, therefore, that, in the middle of February, begins the season of Lent - a time of reflection and preparation. A time when Christians often focus on the dark side of life. On the sin that Christ stood so firmly against. Yet no matter what ills may befall their lives, followers of the child pre- HATHAWAY sented in the temple as “the light” can be certain that His way will lead to the peace that can only be discovered in getting to know Him better, and in develop- ing a long term relationship with Him  FURNITURE  Simeon was just glad to know, in his last days, that the Christ had come. We Bespoke Furniture & Joinery have the opportunity of getting to know Him a bit better.

01452 857857 With every blessing from your friend and Rector

www.hathawayfurniture.co.uk Martin

34 3

 PRAYER DIARY — FEBRUARY MAGAZINE TEAM Editor Mr Mike Dill 01452 730767 Friday 1 Diocese of Western Tanganyika [email protected] Saturday 2 For those attending the men's and ladies breakfasts Advertisements Mrs Margaret Brind 01452 730744 [email protected] Sunday 3 People living in Boddington & Barrow Correspondents Monday 4 For our Lay Reader, Chris Lane Down Hatherley Mrs Helen Nicol 01452 730025 Tuesday 5 For "Bible Club" at Norton School The Leigh Mrs Pat Arkell 01242 680262 Norton Mrs June Hipwood 01452 730425 Wednesday 6 For the staff, children and governors of Deerhurst and Sandhurst Mrs Caroline Watson 01452 730207 Apperley School Twigworth Mrs Margaret Riddick 01452 730700 Thursday 7 For those working in the probation service Staverton Mr David Bound 01242 680692 Friday 8 Diocese of Dornakal - India Saturday 9 Those preparing to lead worship and preach tomorrow LOCAL CONTACTS Sunday 10 People living in Down Hatherley Clerks to the Parish Councils: Monday 11 For members of our Ministry Team Boddington Mrs Diane Hughes Tuesday 12 For the parents prayer group at Norton School The Leigh Miss Kate Tilling 01242 680089 Wednesday 13 For the staff, children and governors of Norton School ([email protected]) Down Hatherley Mr David Bayley 01452 501796 Thursday 14 Diocese of Västerås - Sweden Longford Mr Paul Ounsworth 01452 526495 Friday 15 Those who commute day by day Norton Mr David Cooper 01452 537831 Saturday 16 Those preparing to lead worship and preach tomorrow Sandhurst Mr David Cooper 01452 537831 Sunday 17 People living in Sandhurst 07766004001 Monday 18 The community of Korowe school in Kenya Staverton Mr Paul Ounsworth 01452 526495 Twigworth Mr David Bayley 01452 501796 Tuesday 19 For our bishops, Michael & John Local History Group Mr Denis King 01452 730773 Wednesday 20 For the "Open the Book" Team Longford Flower Club Mrs June West 01452 525121 Thursday 21 The work of "Send a Cow" Norton Mother & Toddlers Group Katy Bailey 07747728475 Friday 22 Our churchwardens Norton W.I. Mrs Pat Arkell 01242 680262 Sanhdurst WI Celia Poffley 01452 739487 Saturday 23 Those who clean our church buildings Scottish Dancing Class Mrs Joan Leyfield 01452 730926 Sunday 24 People living in Coombe Hill Mrs Pam Parkes 01452 730592 Monday 25 Those ill in hospital and those who are housebound Traidcraft Goods Sarah Sharpley 01452 739179 Tuesday 26 Our farming community Ellie Stevenson 01452 739142 UB Youth Club Alison Moseley 07759 458494 Wednesday 27 For those working in our hospitals Wainlode Quilters Mrs Tilly Page 01452 730046 Thursday 28 Diocese of Karnataka Central - India Mrs Hazel Goad 01452 730360

4 33 FEBRUARY Readings to 24th February 2013: Year C 2 Longford Flower Group meet (See MONTHLY MEETINGS Page: 9)

2 Men’s Breakfast Club (See MONTHLY MEETINGS Page: 9) Sunday 3rd February White Candlemas 2 Ladies’ Breakfast Group (See MONTHLY MEETINGS Page: 9) First Reading Hebrews 2: 14—end Sunday 3rd February Candlemas Gospel Luke: 2:22—40 Sandhurst 4:00 pm Chris Lane Sunday 10th February Green Next before lent Christingle Boddington Confirmation Service 11:00 am Bishop Michael First Reading 2 Corinthians 3: 12—4: 2 9 Dick Brice at Down Hatherley VH (See AROUND THE PARS P: 17) Gospel Luke 9: 28—36 Sunday 10th February Next before Lent Psalm 99 Sandhurst Holy Communion 9:30 am Rev Martin Wednesday 13th February Purple Ash Wednesday Twigworth Holy Communion 11;00 Rev Martin First Reading Isaiah 58: 1—11 am

Gospel Matthew 6: 1—6, 16—21 Down Hatherley Evening Prayer 6:30 pm Chris Lane

Norton Morning Prayer 9:30 am Team

The Leigh Holy Communion 9:30 am Canon David/Chris Lane

Staverton Holy Communion 8:00 am Rev Martin

Boddington

Wednesday 13th February Ash Wednesday

Norton Holy Communion 7:00 pm Chris Lane Sunday 17th February Purple Lent 1

First Reading Deuteronomy 26: 1—11 14 Bereavement Support Group meeting (See Page: 13) Gospel Luke 4: 1—13 Sunday 17th February Lent 1

Psalm 91: 1—11 Sandhurst Family Service 9:30 am Team

Sunday 24th February Purple Lent 2 Twigworth Morning Prayer 10:30 am Chris Lane

First Reading Genesis 15: 1—18 Down Hatherley Holy Communion 9:30 am Rev Martin Gospel Luke 13: 31—end Norton Holy Communion 9:30 am Canon David Psalm 27 The Leigh Holy Communion 8:30 am Said Rev Martin Staverton Boddington Holy Communion 11:00 am Rev Martin

32 5 FEBRUARY AIRPORT TRANSFERS

18 Lent Group (See MONTHLY MEETINGS Page: 10) Private Hire 19 Lent Group (See MONTHLY MEETINGS Page: 10) By Richard Theyer

20 Lent Group (See MONTHLY MEETINGS Page: 10) Airport, Seaport & Rail Stations

20 Sandhurst WI meet (See MONTHLY MEETINGS Page: 10) Quotes given for all UK 20 Lent Lunch (See EVENTS Page: 18) destinations

21 Norton WI meet (See MONTHLY MEETINGS Page: 10) ‘THE SEVEN TOWERS Climate controlled clean vehicles

22 Staverton & Boddington Thursday Club meet (See MONTHLY MEET- MAGAZINE’ From 1 to 8 passengers INGS Page: 10) Please contact: Fully Licensed Insured & C.R.B. checked Sunday 24th February Lent 2 Mrs Margaret Brind Seven days a week by appointment Sandhurst Holy Communion 9:30 am Rev Martin 01452 730744 tel: 01242 680766 Chris Lane

Twigworth Holy Communion 4:30 pm Can David [email protected] mob: 07970 966 801

Down Hatherley Evening Prayer 6:30 pm Team Norton Morning Prayer 11:00 am Rev Martin Michael Kelsall THETHE ESTATEESTATE HND Hort/Arb, BSc Land Man Chris Lane AGENCYAGENCY The Leigh Holy Communion 6:00 pm Team Ammonite

Paving &Landscaping Staverton

Boddington Evening Prayer 6:30 pm Team All aspects of :- Landscaping,

Design & Construction, Fencing Patios, Driveways, Arbours, Planting 24 ‘Messy Church’ (See EVENTS Page: 20) City Chambers, 4-6 Clarence St, - Also All Types of Tree work, Felling 25 Norton & The Leigh Local History Group Meet (See MONTHLY MEET- Gloucester, GL1 1DX Pruning, Removal & Hedge Cutting. INGS Page: 10) www.theestateagency.co.uk

27 Lent Lunch (See EVENTS Page: 18) Fully Insured If you are thinking of moving home, Friendly Advice & Free Quotation then we would like to offer you a free, no obligation market from qualified professionals appraisal & valuation. Magazine Annual Subscription 01242 680922—Mobile 07703 826396 01452 383836 or 01452 302937 The annual subscription for the magazine will (Evenings) Tod Cottage, The Leigh, GL19 4AG remain at £6 for 2013. www.ammonitepavingandlandscaping.co.uk Sponsors of the Pied Piper Appeal

6 31 HAY & STRAW FOR SALE MARCH

WALLSWORTH FARM, SANDHURST, GLOS 2 Norton WI Spring Show GOOD QUALITY SMALL BALES 6 Lent Lunch (See EVENTS Page: 18) Call at the farm, one mile from the A38 Tewkesbury Road 13 Lent Lunch (See EVENTS Page: 18) Delivery Available 14 Staverton & Boddington Thursday Club meet (See MONTHLY MEET- For more details call Alan on: 01452 739299 or 07790 815251 INGS Page: 11) 17 Exhibition of Talents (See EVENTS Page: 15) Rob Bingham Total Gas Services 20 Lent Lunch (See EVENTS Page: 18) 22 LINC Concert (See EVENTS Page: 19) Services & Breakdown Engineer 23 Annual Village Spring Clean—Sandhurst (See AROUND THE PARISHES Installation Natural Gas, L.P.G. & Oil Page: 16) Reg. No Boilers, Water Heaters, Cookers & Gas Fires. 28 Agape Meal (See EVENTS Page: 20) 215095 — Landlord Certificates April, May etc. Tel No. 01452 387278 Mobile. 07789872650 3 April Horticultural Society AGM — Norton Village Hall at 8pm 24 April Leigh AGM (See AROUND THE PARISHES Page: 14) 1st CHOICE AERIALS & SATELLITES 3 May Horticultural Society Annual Plant Sale: Norton Village Hall Aerial Upgrades - Extra Points - Repair work - Storm Damage 7:00—8:00 pm All Work guaranteed - Freeview Set Top Boxes 18 May ‘Cider with Rosie’ evening (See AROUND THE PARISHES Call 01452 311511 Page: 14) 10 August 66th Horticultural Show: Norton Village Hall 2:30pm 69 Sandyleaze, Longlevens, Gloucester MAGAZINE COPY Painting and Decorating Quality Internal & External Decorating Next month’s copy date: General Handyman & Property Maintenance For inclusion in the March 2013 edition of the magazine, Free Estimates – DULUX approved copy should reach parish correspondents by 16th February

or be sent directly to Mike Dill by the 17th February Colin Crosby-Moorton – 25 years Experience (email: [email protected]). Phone: 01452 864029 Mobile 07958 059011

30 7 MONTHLY MEETINGS ROUND UP

Parish Council Meetings:

Twigworth: Meetings held on a Thursday at 7:30pm in St. Matthew’s vestry. (Door at left side of church)

2013: Mar 14 May 9 (AGM) July 4 Sep 5 Nov 7

Members of the public and press are cordially invited to attend. There is a chance for public participation at the beginning and at the end of every meeting.

Down Hatherley: Meetings held on a Wednesday in the village hall at 7:00pm.

Members of the public and press are cordially invited to attend. There is a chance for public participation at the beginning and at the end of every meeting.

Sandhurst: Meetings are held in Sandhurst Village Hall, starting at 7:30 pm on the first Monday of each month (unless this is a Bank Holiday). All parishioners are invited to attend.

The Leigh: Meetings have now been altered so that there are 4 planned meet ings a year, one of those will be the Annual General Meeting each May where Councillor Officers are appointed to Parish Council roles. Meetings are held in St Catherine’s Church, on a Wednesday at 7.30pm. Gloucester Academy of Music All parishioners are encouraged to attend. Next dates are: 13 Feb 2013, AGM 8 May 2013 Music Tuition & Group Sessions

Longford: Meetings are held in Longford Village Hall, first Tuesday of the month, For all ages, pre school to post retirement starting at 7:30 pm. All residents are invited. Term-time & exciting Holiday Courses Norton: Meetings are held in the Village Hall committee room starting at 7.30pm. All parishioners are welcome to attend. www.gamusic.co.uk 01452 385162

Mar 6; Apr 17; May 29; July 10; Aug 21;Oct 2; Nov 13; Jan 8 2014. [email protected] Staverton:

FUNERALS “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will

live, even though he dies.” (John 11:25) LPG and natural Gas, Corgi and Gassafe registered Engineer Free quotations, fully insured, guaranteed workmanship. David Pares D. 26 Dec 2012 81 St. Matthew’s, Twigworth 08450 507591 local rate call 07809 201125 mobile Joe Leach D. 9 January 82 St. Matthew’s, Twigworth 08450 507592 fax line.

8 29 MONTHLY MEETINGS ROUND UP MADE LONGFORD FLOWER CLUB TO

A Craft Class on Willow Extensions commencing at WE ARE LOOKING FOR NEW PLAYERS MEASURE 10:30 am in Longford Village Hall. FOR 2013 Feb

SENIOR TEAMS JUNIOR TEAMS Professionally finished Card-making will also be on offer. SATURDAY 1ST XI UNDER 15’S CURTAINS & 2nd SATURDAY 2ND XI UNDER 13’S For further information, contact June West on SUNDAY 1ST XI OTHER MID WEEK XI 01452 525121

PLAYERS OF ALL AGES AND ABILITY ARE SOFT FURNISHINGS WELCOME TO COME ALONG, HAVE SOME FUN AND JOIN A FRIENDLY CRICKET CLUB. Fast, reliable service. MEN’S BREAKFAST CLUB

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE COME AND Estimates free. How do you fancy a cooked breakfast!? Well, we have a

VISIT US AT monthly gathering of men for conversation and to have breakfast. WOOD LANE, DOWN HATHERLEY or Telephone Jay on We meet on the first Saturday on each month, starting at 8:30 CONTACT US THROUGH OUR WEBSITE: am and finishing by 10:00am. If you’re able to make a donation WWW.DOWNHATHERLEYCC.COM 01242 680512 to help cover costs that would be good (but not essential!). Our next gathering will be at The Rectory on Saturday 2nd February. So that we can order the right amount of sausages, please let Rev Martin Thompson know CLEEVELY MEMORIALS if you're coming! 01452 731994 or [email protected]) Specialists in Finest Quality Individual Memorials in Stone, Granite, Marble & Slate LADIES’ BREAKFAST GROUP

Friendly family business established in 1992 The Ladies’ Breakfast group will meet again on Saturday 2nd February from 8:30am Large Showroom with over 60 memorials on show - 10:00 am at Mary Limbrick’s house. More ladies are always welcome and if you’d

Unit 5b, 83 Prestbury Road, Cheltenham, GL52 2DR like to come, please contact Fiona on 01452 731994. If you’re able to make a do- Contact Caroline on 01242 236236 nation to help cover costs that would be good (but not essential!).

SANDHURST COFFEE MORNINGS The Orchard Knitting Club

In Sandhurst Village Hall on We meet every Thursday from 2nd Monday of the month at 10:15 till 12:15 in the Coffee 10:30am: Shop at Nature in Art, Wals- worth Hall. 11 Feb; 11 Mar; 8 Apr; New members always welcome 13 May; 10 June; 8 regardless of ability. Bring your July; 12 Aug; 9 Sept; 14 own projects or help with knit- ting for charity. For more de- GREEN ORCHARD DEERHURST GL19 4BS 01242 680362 Oct; 11 Nov; 9 Dec. tails contact Mavis on 01452 730609 or 07974033428.

28 9 MONTHLY MEETINGS’ ROUND UP CHRIS’S CORNER So, we march into another year with another fine mish mash of NORTON WI SANDHURST WI weather and not much sign of things drying up. We have had New members and visitors always New members and visitors al- ridiculously mild days, some bitterly cold ones and plenty of welcome. Meeting at 7:30pm on ways welcome. Meeting at wet stuff to punctuate the trip. There may still be traces of last year’s crops standing skeletal across the landscape, but February 21st, the speaker for 7:30pm on February 20th, the the evening, Mary Beagley, will nature continues to do the business though and the snowdrops speaker, Jean Jeffries, will give have been most impressive. I think that the Snowdrop Festi- give a talk entitled ‘My Mother a talk on ‘Cheese Making’. vals should be good. One or two places are now offering snow- was a Cockney’. drops as plants and it does take some of the risk out off over- wintering new bulbs, just to see them rot. Lent Groups Crocus too have popped up everywhere and in spite of the quagmire the daffo- We will be running groups every week during Lent. Once again dils are starting to stand up too. As we move into February the tasks come there will be three groups on different days at different times. thick and fast in a normal season. With the ground being so wet, I am grabbing anything that works as a container to grow bits in. Containment makes for eas- Lent groups will meet:- ier management and offers some insurance against failure in the ground, should Mondays at 3:00 pm at David and Angela Godwin’s starting on: testing times continue. It can also make for some quirky displays. Plants it seems will grow in anything and after all many can be replanted in open ground Monday 18th February as time and condition permit. Picking things off the ground will also alleviate Wednesdays at 11:00 am at The Rectory starting on: some slug issues; so many are still active. Play with pinches of seed, an odd few onions or shallots perhaps a few cabbage and just keep the containers against Wednesday 19th February walls, under car ports or even trees to give a little shelter. There is little to Thursdays at 7:30 pm The Rectory starting on: lose and much to gain. Even if it all fails the compost is re useable and the in- vestment small. This may all sound rather twee, but this hobby is meant to be Thursday 20th February. fun. As your confidence rises you can look for your spuds, for onions, garlic and Staverton and Boddington Thursday Club. shallots and plant out the first peas and beans (though not runners). This month should also be good for bare root hedging and as the days draw on you An evening meal is planned at the ‘Farmers’ Arms’, Apperley. can start to plant trees and shrubs if you have need, sneaking them in just on Thursday, February 21st, 6 pm for 6.30 pm. ahead of bud burst. I am going to be top dressing my borders and tubs with a bit of well rotted manure or fertilizer in the coming weeks. So much goodness Please ring Chris on 01242 680763 for more information th has leached away through the long wet months, but just a light surface dress- before February 9 - Thanks. ing will make a difference. NORTON & THE LEIGH LOCAL HISTORY GROUP And finally, get your seeds sorted. At the end of this month the list of things Meeting on 25th Feb at 7:00. to sow expands enormously and if the weather happens to improve a jot…………… we will be off once more! The speaker for the evening, Geoffrey North, will talk on ‘Cheltenham’s Happy Gardening Ornamental Ironwork’. Entrance: £2 includes coffee. All welcome

10 27 MONTHLY MEETINGS’ ROUND UP

CENTRAL MOBILE LIBRARY

As part of the new Library Strategy there have been changes to the mobile library service. Routes F and H no longer exist and so there will be no visits to Sandhurst, Norton and Staverton. The only remaining visit on ‘our patch’ will be at The Swan, Coombe Hill.

Village Stop Name Time Coombe Hill The Swan 14.55-16.55 8th February, 8th March, 5 April, 3rd May, 31st May, 28th June

MONTHLY MEETINGS’ ROUND UP

STAVERTON AND BODDINGTON THURSDAY CLUB

St. John's Players are performing the comedy

'A Piece of Cake'

by Lucy Bennett at St. John's Hall, Churchdown in March. Tickets are £8/£7 for Concessions. If you are interested in a Thursday Club trip to the performance at 7.30 p.m. on Thursday 14th March, please let me have a cheque payable to 'St. John's Players' by 7th February.

All are welcome. Christine (01242 680694)

26 11 MONTHLY MEETINGS’ ROUND UP COLIN’S COMPUTER COLUMN

Labels and Covers Sandhurst WI Programme for 2013 Back in the days when VHS tapes were the Date Topic Speaker latest thing in video recording we accepted that the tape boxes had smaller front and back cov- Feb 20 Cheese Making Jean Jeffries ers than the generously sized covers of our 33 rpm vinyl records. This meant less scope for elaborate cover designs, but the wide, book- Mar 20 Carnivals around the World Jill Salmons like spines of the boxed VHS tapes had plenty of space for title labels. Then along came CDs in their smaller “jewel case” packaging and Apr 17 Travelling for Plants in South America Dr Keith Ferguson DVDs, usually in rather longer cases (perhaps to distinguish them from CDs, which have the same physical dimensions?). Although one could buy spe- cial storage racks for CDs and DVDs, anyone who May 15 RESOLUTIONS had a large collection would soon end up putting them in a bookcase to minimise the space taken up. With only the spines visible, the importance of spine June 19 The John Moore Museum Simon Lawton labelling increased. However, there was width enough for an easily read title to run along the long dimension of the spine. July 17 End to End and Back Again Richard Cooper The growing popularity of digital cameras with a movie capability, smart- phones and small digital camcorders led many people to produce their own video recordings, often of high definition (HD) quality, playable on a Sept 16 Seasonal Flower Arranging Beryl Griffiths computer or modern TV. Transferring those recordings to DVD is a good way to distribute them to (grateful?) relatives and friends. Making one’s own labels and covers for a CD or DVD is not for the faint-hearted, but Oct 16 Wildlife in Costa Rica Ged Cassell suitable software is readily available. For videos, I have settled for the “Slim DVD” case format which takes up very little space but can still carry a readable spine label (just!). Nov 20 (AGM) Making Glass Beads Demo Vanessa Hearn The real video geeks, of course, will probably go for a completely elec- tronic, iPod-like library for the videos they make or own, maybe complete Dec 11 Turning the Wheel—Seasonal Customs Kevan Manwaring with thumbnail “cover” art and searchable by subject, date and artist etc. If they want to watch an entertaining film and don’t want to own it or have it cluttering up their bookshelves, they probably subscribe to a company like Sandhurst WI always welcomes new members. LoveFilm, which offers video in high definition streamed instantly over the Internet to the customer.

All very well, I suppose, but, for my part, I must admit that I quite like For further information, contact: attractively packaged disks, arranged logically on shelves and searchable by eye. Celia Poffley: 01452 739487 12 25 VILLAGE AGENT REPORT MONTHLY MEETINGS’ ROUND UP

We all value our independence, and most of us will remain and enjoy being independent Norton Nippers Playgroup would like to welcome all into a healthy later life. However, for many reasons, it isn’t always that easy to be local or non local parents/carers with young children completely independent. Village & Community Agents try and help people remain living to come and visit our playgroup. independently in their own homes by concentrating on what measures we can put in place to achieve that. It is sometimes the case that to remain as independent as pos- Norton Nippers Playgroup provides a friendly and sible can mean accepting a degree of help. When we visit a client, we are able to look relaxed environment for parents and carers with at the whole situation, from checking whether they have the correct level of bene- babies and toddlers to play, interact and make new fits, to making sure up-to-date smoke alarms are fitted, to having grab rails installed friends. Each week we provide toys for free play, to help prevent falls, getting aids and equipment to help those with a sensory impair- craft activities and time for a snack and tea or cof- ment, making sure clients have access to specialist knowledge, ensuring that they have fee for mum/dad/carer too! We have a full programme of events including visits any aids which will physically make life easier, making sure they are eating properly, or to Norton Little Learners pre-school, free haircuts for the little ones, photo- that they are not becoming isolated from the community. graph sessions, day trips out for all and nights out for the grown ups to! Village and Community Agents support people aged 50+ living in So please come along if you are a parent or carer. It’s a great opportunity for , bridging the gap between the local community and you and your child to make new friends. the statutory or voluntary organisations able to offer help or sup- WHERE ? Norton Village Hall port. A team of 32 part-time Village and Community Agents who work county-wide; we can... WHEN ? Every Tuesday (During Term-Time) from 10am to 11.30’ish  provide high quality face-to-face information and support COST ? £1.50 per family  offer a facilitated signposting service and put people in direct contact with CONTACT: Lucy 01242 680040 or Jackie 07775752683 the appropriate agency Norton Nippers Registered charity 1059297. Members of the Playgroup and Toddler Association (PATA)  help individuals make informed choices about their future needs Bereavement Support Group  identify unmet need in their communities Many of us face challenging situations in our lives. It may be from losing a job or a life

 primarily support older people, but other disadvantaged and isolated people threatening illness, but often it’s the death of a loved one. are also be able to receive Village and Community Agents’ support. We are looking at the possibility of creating a bereavement support group of Christian men and women from within our churches to serve the communities in which we live. The Jane Griffiths 07810 630244 role of members would be, where invited, to support one or two individual people by visit- Village Agent for Maisemore, Ashleworth, Hasfield, Tirley, Chaceley, Forthampton, Deer- ing, listening and in the many and varied ways that just being there can bring. There will hurst with Apperley, Sandhurst and Twyning be training will be given beforehand. Lesley Wall 07810 630064 Just to clarify, the purpose is not to create a group where bereaved people can come for Village Agent for Boddington, Down Hatherley, Elmstone Hardwicke, Leigh, Norton, Twig- in a group for mutual support nor to offer a counselling service. worth, Staverton, Stoke Orchard and Uckington If you would like to find out more details or ask any questions, there’s an open evening Ken Haines 07810 630234 Ann Warriner’s house - The Old Rectory, Down Hatherley Lane, Down Hatherley Lane on Thursday 14th February at 7:30 pm. Coming along won’t commit you to becoming part of Village Agent for Highnam, Innsworth, Longford, and Minsterworth the group!

24 13 AROUND THE PARISHES — NORTON

Book and Plant Sale in aid of church kitchen/WC

St. Mary’s, Norton 8 June 10.30-2.00pm Light refreshments

Norton WI Date Corrections Spring Show: Saturday 2nd March (staging from 4pm on Friday 1st.) November meeting: November 21st Trevor Humphris December meeting: December 12th TJH Contracting Ltd

Established 27 years AROUND THE PARISHES — THE LEIGH Operated plant hire for:- Flood Defence/Barriers Entertainment and Supper Ditches, Drains, Ponds. Home & Pet Minder based on Demolition, Reclamation Peace of mind while you are away Foundations Concreting ‘Cider with Rosie’ Tree / Hedge cutting. Garden Clearance. Saturday May 18th Experience with domestic pets 1.5 — 14 Tonne Excavators at St Catherine, The Leigh Animals and very reliable 1/4 — 12 Tonne Dumpers Loading Shovel, Tractors References available on request Contact Trevor or Liz : The Leigh AGM Wednesday April 24th Please contact Annette on Tel : 01452 730155 Mobile : 07836 758080 0794 115 1235 By Quote or on Day Work 7.30 pm at St. Catherine, The Leigh homeandpetminderglos.co.uk www.tjhcontracting.co.uk

14 23 Wired Electrical EVENTS

All aspects of electrical work covered, no job too small or too large

Fully insured and Part P registered - Over 10 years experience

24 hour call out

10% discount on presentation of this ad

Please contact Simon Berry on 07534 925685 CRAFT

Janet Goodhind Exhibition, Demonstrations MSSCh MBChA Sales Qualified Chiropodist Home visits by appointment Please call — 01242 252819 or 07905 149 519 Norton Village Hall Sunday 17th March House of Robinson SOFT FURNISHINGS AND DESIGN 10.30 -4.30

PROPRIETOR: - Mrs Sallyann Rolfe Coffee, Lunches, Teas 26 LEWIS AVENUE, LONGFORD, GLOUCESTER, GL2 9BQ 07721 768577 01452 305381

www.houseofrobinson.co.uk Soft furnishings individually designed to suit your lifestyle and budget, Children's activities & competition from simple roman blinds to intricately designed curtains, expertly made to measure soft furnishings, from your fabric or our own.

● Handmade curtains ● Roman blinds ● Swags & Tails Admission Adults £1, children free ● Pelmets ● Bedspreads ● Loose Covers We offer a consultation service in the comfort of your own home, All proceeds to provide latrines at with a wide choice of fabrics, trimmings, curtain poles and rails. Korowe School, Kenya

22 15 AROUND THE PARISHES — SANDHURST JOHN HARTLAND

Grounds Maintenance Contract FIREWOOD LOGS & KINDLING Sandhurst Parish Council Delivered – small and large loads

Tenders are invited for the Grounds Maintenance 07811 340975 or 01684 275859 www.glosfirewood.co.uk Contract on behalf of Sandhurst Parish Council. Mobile firewood processing unit, log splitting service

and tractor hedge-trimming The contract will be for a period of 7 months and will involve grass and edge cutting on the Village Green and Recreation Ground between j clifford plastering services

April and October 2013. all work undertaken 15 years of experience

Interested parties should contact: 4 forge cottages contact jeremy on - the leigh gloucestershire Tel: 01242 680445 The Clerk to the Parish Council GL19 4AA Mobile: 07923956970

Tel: 01452 537831

Email: [email protected]

Closing date for submission of Tenders: 28th February 2013

The Annual Spring Clean of Sand- hurst village will be held on Satur- day 23rd March. Volunteers should meet at St. Lawrence’s Church car park at 9:30am. Equipment will be available. This is a great opportu- nity to get out and about in the Spring air and get to know fellow villagers. All welcome. 16 21 EVENTS AROUND THE PARISHES — SANDHURST Agape Meal Our “Agape” meal will take place this year at Down Hatherley Village Hall on Maundy Thursday 28th March starting at 7pm. The meal follows the tradition of the Passover, which Jesus was cele- Advance Notice Advance Notice brating with his disciples on the night before his crucifixion. It is, of course, the occasion when Jesus started what we today know as Holy £5 per pitch £5 per pitch Communion and this is reflected in the evening. At the end of the meal we celebrate communion together round the meal table - just as Jesus did! Indoor Car Boot Sale February 2013 – date to be arranged

Come & join us at Sandhurst Village Hall Sandhurst Church A chance for a post Christmas/early Spring clean clear out! Sunday February 24 More information to follow 3—5pm Craft, celebration & food AROUND THE PARISHES — DOWN HATHERLEY FOR ALL THE FAMILY DICK BRICE ENTERTAINS

NO UNACCOMPANIED CHILDREN PLEASE For further information ring Martin on 731994

Shiny Bright Cleaning Ltd Experienced domestic cleaning service SINGER AND RACONTEUR Weekly cleans, Deep cleans, Spring cleans With refreshments and a laughter guarantee Interior and exterior window cleaning DOWN HATHERLEY VILLAGE HALL Solar Panel cleaning TH Gutters cleared, fascias, & soffits cleaned SATURDAY 9 FEBRUARY at 7.30pm Moving in and out House Clean Admission £8

A friendly local firm - Contact Jan 01452 731895 or 07894 058792 Feel free to bring a bottle Contact Averill 01452 730323 or Sue 730005 20 17 EVENTS EVENTS

LENT LUNCHES

Please support this year's lunches to be held every Wednesday in Lent starting February 20th at 12.30pm “Wild plant charity Plantlife (www.plantlife.org.uk), are hoping to reach out to many wild plant enthusiasts and nature lovers by inviting them to become wild This year, thanks to these generous volunteer hostesses, plant 'pioneers' and subscribe to a free quarterly e-learning bulletin to learn more about our native wild plants via the 'Wild About Plants' project website - the venue will rotate around the parishes as follows: www.wildaboutplants.org.uk . The November e-bulletin is out now! The Wild About Plants project aims to help people reconnect with the outdoors and their local greenspaces. Working with schools, families and communities from all walks of life and with fantastic free downloadable resources, the team hope to Feb 20 Fiona Thompson The Rectory, Twigworth engage people with the nature on their doorstep. In recent years subscribers have been asked to record the plant life in their local area and recount what 27 Janet Anderson Sandhurst House, Sandhurst they used to see/pick and forage for. Wild About Plants is funded by Natural England through Access to Nature, as part of the Big Lottery Fund's Changing March 6 Sue Roberts 1 Withybridge Gdns, Boddington Spaces programme. It is a partnership project involving partner organisations 13 Jean Smith Norton Court Farm, Priors Norton throughout the country." 20 Ann Warriner Old Rectory, Down Hatherley The Leukaemia & Intensive Chemotherapy Fund

Registered charity number: 1078183 Lunch consists of home-made soup, bread & cheese, fruit & coffee. A suggested donation of £3.50 is requested for Christian Aid. celebrates it’s 15 year Anniversary with WHAT’S ON AT GLOUCESTER CATHEDRAL? Churchdown Male Voice Choir featuring Sue Black, soprano

Saturday 23 February 7.30pm Mozart Requiem Friday 22 March 2013 @ 7.30pm PITTVILLE PUMP ROOM with Haydn Theresienmesse unreserved seating £10 each, available from the LINC office Gloucester Cathedral 0300 422 4422 or online at www.lincfund.org

Stroud Choral Society Regency Sinfonia. Tickets £18 (U18 free) Available from In support of ‘Make a Difference Campaign’ 0845 6521823, the Cathedral Shop or 01453 753398.

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