CASSINGTON & WORTON NEWS News and views from the parish of Cassington and Worton May 2008 – Issue 371 Another marathon and Jane’s still smiling Last year Jane Bishop said ‘never again’, but we’re pleased to announce she has completed another London Marathon, improved her time, raised valuable cash for the School and Playgroup and is still smiling. Read her story inside.
From the team Well, we didn’t get any letters of complaint, so we presume no-one was April fooled by our spoof item last month. Our rigorous risk assessment procedures ensure such items are very obvious, but if you missed it I can assure you that, to the best of our knowledge, there are no plans to install a state-of-the art i-Peal in place of the Church Bells ... although we understand at least one villager (the name was not revealed) thought it was a good idea. You may have noticed work has begun on the spire of St Peter’s so I’m sure more donations would be welcomed. Opportunities to join in activities which will contribute can be found inside - including a second opportunity to exercise your creative writing skills. We at CAWN are pleased to thank those who support us with paid advertising and to say we have passed a cheque for £1000 to Cassington Parochial Charities who we are sure will put it to good use to benefit our community. Thank you. Don’t miss the film “The Kite Runner” on Friday 9th May ... have a good month!
Advertising rates Local ‘what’s on’ and fund-raising stuff is free. Simple local services, ‘for sales’ etc, are now also free on noticeboard. Suitable commercial business are invited to support our community by buying advertising space ... 1/8 page, £5 (£50 per year) 1/4 page, £8 (£80 per year) 1/2 page, £12 (£120 per year) Full page, £20 (£200 per year) Technical details for artwork available on request. All material included at the discretion of 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, Witney OX29 4DL, by the 20th of the month. We look forward to hearing from you. THE CATHOLIC CHURCH OF VILLAGE HALL DAMAGE ST PETER’S, EYNSHAM If you play football or other ball games near Abbey Street, Eynsham, OX29 4HR Tel: 01865 881613 the Village Hall please avoid hitting the Hall, www.communigate.co.uk/oxford/rcchurch/page3 particularly the windows or roof. Serving the Hanboroughs, Freeland, Cassington, Tiles have been damaged and we are Stanton Harcourt and Sutton etc. You do not have to be already having to pay for repairs. a Catholic to come to our Church or talk to the Priest. THE PRIEST: Fr. Martin Flatman is happy to receive enquiries by phone, email or text. The Friends of St Peter’s Cassington (registered charity Mobile 07719 646790 [email protected]. 1114780) would like to thank all of those who came to support us at our St George’s Supper on 23rd April. We HIS WEEKLY TALK (Homily) can be sent to you by hope you enjoyed the evening as much as we did and we email. Just email your request. would like to thank the many people who helped us in so THE CHURCH is open for prayer every day. many practical ways, especially in getting the hall ready and in helping to clear up afterwards. Thanks to your SUNDAY MASS 10.00am and SATURDAY (for Sunday) 7.30pm efforts we have raised over £650 towards the ongoing works at St Peter’s Church. Daily Mass as advertised. ASCENSION DAY is celebrated by Catholics in Bike Night England on Sunday 4th May. It is the day when we affirm that Jesus our human brother is now with God Please note that Ninon Linnell is not organising this year’s in glory, so assuring us that each of us has eternal Bike Night events. She is only co-ordinating the charitable significance in and through Jesus. organisations in the village who have expressed an interest in taking part in and benefiting from the raffle which the PENTECOST (WHITSUNDAY) is on Sunday 11th Bike Night organisers have agreed to run. If you would May when we will have a special Sunday Morning like your charitable organisation to be included please Mass for our little children. This is one of the contact her on 881330 occasions five times a year when they stay in Church and sit up the front on the floor and get a series of little talks from Fr. Martin. Many grown-ups think Annual Parish Meeting this is better than a normal Sunday!! This is a meeting for Cassington residents to hear reports CORPUS CHRISTI is celebrated by Catholics in from village organisations. All are welcome! The meeting England on Sunday 25th May when we give special is on Wednesday 21 May at 7.30 p.m. in St Peter’s School. thanks for the way we can receive the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ in and through the bread and wine. We hope to have reports from school, sports and social Jesus said “This is my Body.. this is my Blood” and we club, village hall management committee, church, the believe he meant it. police, the parish council, the WI, playgroup, the Royal British Legion and the Parochial Charities, among others. ST PETER’S GARDENS will be open again this year on Saturday 14th June when we also hold a Garden Please note the change of venue - this meeting is to Fete. Lots of changes have taken place since last year be held in St Peter’s School, not the Village Hall as and the new roof looks good too. More details next previously advertised. month. CHRISTIAN AID QUIZ NIGHT Wednesday 15th May at 7.30pm Our three Churches have organised a Quiz Night to support CHRISTIAN AID in the Tolkien Room at St Peter’s Church on Wednesday 15th May at 7.30pm. £5 for each person (Family of 2 Adults plus Children £10) either form a team with friends, or just come along and we will join you up with others to make a team and some new friends. Light Refreshments included in the price. Come and have some fun and also raise money for a very worthy cause. Remember WHATEVER YOU DO, DO SOMETHING.
2 ST PETER’S CHURCH OF ENGLAND, Cassington Pre-School Playgroup CASSINGTON Rescheduled Easter Egg Hunt is now a ... The Church of St. Peter's is here as a fellowship to worship God, build people up in Christ and share his love with others FANCY DRESS TREASURE HUNT SERVICES MAY 2008 Sunday 4th May Sunday 4 May 8am Holy Communion (BCP) 2-3.30pm from Playgroup Revd John Underwood £5 per team, to include clue sheet 4pm All Age Sunday Afternoon Special maximum number in a team is five Revd Morey Andrews Refreshments. Sunday 11 May Prize for fastest team - 10am Holy Communion and Baptism Witney cinema tickets. Revd Roger Aston Best fancy dress girl and boy. Sunday 18 May 8am Holy Communion (BCP) Small prize for all Children. Revd John Underwood To register your team before the day 10am Morning Worship please contact Jane Bishop 881745 Neil Grady
Sunday 25 May 10am Holy Communion Revd Andrew Atherstone 6pm Benefice Evening Prayer (BCP) Revd Morey Andrews
There is a service of Holy Communion at 9.30am on Tuesdays and a prayer meeting at 7am on Thursdays. 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+) or crèche for the under 3s. (Except All Age Worship when everyone stays in church.) SUNDAY LIVE MONTHLY EVENT FOR YOUNG PEOPLE.
More information available from: BURLEIGH FARM Church Office: Traditional Farmhouse Eynsham Village Hall, Back Lane, Eynsham Mon–Thurs 9am–1pm Bed and Breakfast Accommodation Tel: 01865 883362 Contact Jane Cook – 01865 881352 email: [email protected] Burleigh Farm, Bladon Road, Cassington Vicar: Revd Morey Andrews: Oxfordshire OX29 4EA 45 Acre End Street, Eynsham, Oxon OX29 4PF Visit Day off: Friday www.oxfordcity.co.uk/accom/burleighfarm Tel: 01865 881323 for more information
3 parish notes
CASSINGTON PARISH COUNCIL Details of all of the trustees nominated by the Parish Council would be MEETING Held on 3 April 2008 requested. New trustees would be needed in the future, if existing Trustees retired. (The draft notes below are subject to confirmation by the Parish Council on 8 May) c) Events for councillors: “Sustainable Community Strategy - Councillors Kate Cropper, Iwan Hughes, Sheila Nelson, Olaf Rock and Oxfordshire 2030” (April); Road shows on playgrounds (June) Clive Wilkinson attended. West Oxon District Councillor Margaret e) WODC Local Development Framework and WODC Planning for Stevens, plus nine members of the public and the clerk, Liz Bickley, the future: Consultation on planning core strategy issues and options – also attended. to be discussed at next meeting. Responses due by 12 May.
AFFORDABLE HOUSING f) Village of the year 2008. Cllr Rock offered to find out whether there was any interest in preparing an entry; we had received a prize two Nicky Ball of Oxon Rural Community Council gave a presentation. years ago in the Oxfordshire small village section. She referred to the problems of high housing costs. The Oxon Rural Housing Partnership had helped to provide affordable housing g) New bus timetables: No 11 (timing), 18 (route in Oxford) schemes since 2003. A small number of houses (usually 4-8) to meet h) Letter from Leader of Oxon County Council referring to Post local needs could be provided in villages. Housing would be for rent Offices, Schools, Planning. or part-ownership. These schemes were on Rural Exception sites – where building was not normally allowed. If the Parish Council was i) Stopping up of the highway at 44/46 Eynsham Road – traffic order interested, the first step would be to do a survey of housing needs. published. Then there would be a search for sites, involving the parish council, the Other items of correspondence were circulated to Councillors. district council and land owners. The public would be consulted over any proposal, when a site layout was ready. Then there would be a DISTRICT AND COUNTY COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS planning application. Homes would be available to those on the WODC Housing Register, who had a defined local connection to Cllr Stevens said that policies were being developed by WODC for Cassington. where new housing etc. would be built (the WODC Local Development Framework) and anyone was welcome to comment on it Questions were asked and the chairman thanked Nicky Ball for the presentation. by 12 May. Sandbags had been provided during a recent flood on Elms Road. MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MEETING OF 6 March 2008 QUESTIONS FROM THE PUBLIC a) Police – there was a road rage incident on the A40 on 7 March and two people were arrested. The speed camera on the A40 was Lighting at the A40 bus shelter was requested. Clerk to ask Primesite discovered damaged by fire on Monday 10 March, flares had been Media. placed inside. Information wanted. Locally the police are targeting teenage drinking. Theft of lead and from cars are also current DITCHES, DRAINAGE AND FLOODING problems. Heavy rain on 16/17 March had again threatened a house in Elms b) Drive to Moorcroft. OALC had offered advice and guidance notes Road. Cllr Wilkinson said he had walked the ditches that day and was about common land. Clarification of the ownership of the land in concerned about the recent number of emergencies apparently due to front of Moorcroft was to be pursued. runoff from the farmland. The WODC survey of Cassington’s flood problems was due in a few months. c) Bike Night. A contribution of £150 to St. John Ambulance for attending Bike Night was proposed by Cllr Rock. This was agreed. Enlargement of the sump pit near the allotments had been suggested. Water had been spouting in the Play Area – a broken land drain? d) Bird Scarer. The National Farmers Union website was noted. The Water was moving through the ditches; one section was due to be scarers were no longer firing. excavated when the weather improves. e) The newsletter team had emphasised that the Parish Council would Questionnaire were being distributed to houses at risk of flooding, in not have to pay higher costs if the newsletter grew in the future. The council noted this and thanked the team for their work on producing order to develop the Parish Council Flood Emergency Plan. this very successful newsletter. MAINTENANCE f) Affordable Housing (see above). The council would ask for a survey of housing need in Cassington. a) Road sweeping at the A40 pedestrian crossing. Cllr Pike had informed the clerk of no real progress with the authorities. Some self- CORRESPONDENCE help might be possible. Items for discussion: b) Churchyard Wall. Quotes were being obtained. Then a meeting with the church and the school would be requested by the parish a) A40 lane narrowing, speed limit and cycle prohibition between council in order to agree funding – the cost was expected to be about Cassington and Wolvercote roundabout due to replacement of £1000. A tree on the school side appeared to have lead to the damage. Wolvercote viaduct, 31 March 2008 for 18 months. Details to be placed in newsletter. PLAY AREA b) Cassington Parochial Charities. The Parish Council was One quote had been received for the fence repair and Cllr Cropper responsible for nominating two of the Trustees. The Council offered to obtain others. confirmed the appointments of B Bowerman (from 2007), I Waters (from 2007), M Rogers (from 2008) and M Bowerman (from 2008). The bark chippings were extremely worn, following further flooding.
4 FINANCE Motorists and Cyclists The chairman had written again to BDO Stoy Hayward about the If you use the A40 into Oxford you will notice that work dispute. has started on the Wolvercote flyover replacement. This The council confirmed that the following payments had been made will continue for up to two years. under section 137 of the Local Government Act: £125 to St John • Traffic lanes will be narrowed and there will be a 30 Ambulance (2007), £25 to West Oxon Citizens Advice Bureau (2008). mph limit between the flyover and the Wolvercote The council paid the following bills: roundabout. Royal British Legion – for work done cutting • Cyclists will not be allowed on the Highway. Pound Lane shrubs £ 65.00 • There will be a Cycle Way at all times, but not on both sides. Lyreco (paper) £ 4.70 inc VAT • Cassington A40 Traffic lights will be the safe crossing O Rock reimbursement for O.S. Map for point for cyclists and one Cycle Way will be used for village notice board £ 102.21 travelling in both directions. PLANNING APPLICATIONS Present information is that the Cycle Way on the North Sand and gravel extraction (Cassington Road, Eynsham) – expected to side of the A40 will be open, while the south side cycle be taken at OCC committee on 19 May. way will be closed from Cassington A40 junction to 28 Eynsham Road Cassington. Resubmission with increased footprint Wolvercote roundabout. at rear – 2-storey rear extension with veranda, front porch. (Malcolm Spiers 08/0418/P/FP). The council had no objections subject to any neighbour concerns. Council takes on stray dog responsibility WODC had approved the erection of garage block to serve houses opposite (use of metal up and over garage doors), Bell Lane, The responsibility for collecting stray dogs throughout Cassington by Mr Waters 08/0324 the District changed hands at the beginning of April A Planning Appeal on Hampden House – conservatory – was to be with West Oxfordshire District Council taking over this heard by an Inspector on 8 April. role from the Police. The Police however retain full WODC was still working on enforcement at 62 Eynsham Rd (staircase responsibility for dealing with reports of dangerous and balcony) and Mudie Bond (canopies). dogs in the area. A Planning consultation meeting would be held if required on 16 April From now on anyone who has lost or found a dog at Cllr Cropper’s house, 7 p.m. should report this to the Council by telephoning 01993 ANY OTHER BUSINESS 861020 in normal working hours or 01993 705056 after 5pm or at weekends, or online at www.westoxon.gov.uk Cllr Cropper asked about the licensing arrangements for Bike Night (alcohol sales and entertainment). Cllr Stevens said the Licensing Phil Measures, the Council’s Environmental Protection Officers made decisions about temporary event licenses and she would & Enforcement Manager said: “We always try to reunite check with them the requirement for an entertainment license (Clerk’s dogs with their owners so it is important that they are note: none required). The chairman agreed to contact Geoff Ives. microchipped or have identification tags. DATE OF NEXT MEETING People interested in re-homing a stray dog can apply by The next meeting will be held on Thursday 8 May 2008 in the Village logging on to the West Oxfordshire District Council Hall, at 7.30 p.m. (Polling station on 1 May). All welcome! website – www.westoxon.gov.uk and searching for and Liz Bickley 01865 884496 [email protected] completing the ‘Application to re-home a dog form’.
SOUTHERN CROSS HEALTHCARE Specialist footcare in the Premier Care Home Group comfort of your own home
• All aspects of footcare • Specialist advice • Over 17 years experience
State Registered LONGLANDS NURSING HOME Podiatrist (Chiropodist) Pound Lane, Cassington, Oxon 01865 881440 Rebecca Tyrrell BSc Hons PGDip MChS (HPC Reg’d) Tel: 01993 880225 24 hour care Quality with Commitment
5 Ah, now that was much better. Enjoyable, faster and I actually enjoyed the race this year. All started off quite without the sun-stroke. well and even the rain didn't bother me. I saw my family at Tower Bridge (about halfway) which gave me a boost. Compared with last year, that was a piece of cake, sort of. Towards 23 miles I was flagging a bit, but then realised "It's For those of you that I haven't seen or talked to, I only about 3 miles left, or two laps of our village". I saw completed the 2008 London Marathon in 4 hrs and 26 the family and friends again at 26 miles and instead of minutes (42, yes 42 minutes quicker than last year!). A new whimpering "Help" like last year, I managed a resounding world record for the "A lady with 3 kids, from Cassington, "Get in!" as I passed them and actually sort of sprinted to wearing pink with long brown hair" category. I finished the finish. (And there were no Bakewell tarts to beat me to just behind Martin Lel and just ahead of the bloke that the line this year!) walks around the circuit pulling or carrying or wearing I've only lost one toe-nail and was able to walk almost something heavy. My official placing was 18354. upright on Monday - this is a massive improvement on last year. Hopefully, I won't be tempted to run next year as my sole intention was to do it at least once and enjoy it. I've done that now, and so will only be watching next year. Thank you so much to all of you who offered support and donations. Hopefully the final total will be in the region of £2500. This will be spilt between the school & playgroup. So, who of you will take up the challenge next year ?? Jane Bishop
Congratulations also to Jane Larbalestier who improved her London Marathon time to an impressive 3hrs 55:56. Dipping below the four hour mark earns her a guaranteed place for next year’s race ... now why would you do that? THE CHEQUERS INN
Live Sunday Lunch Jazz - Jazz Traitors Sunday 11th May
Live Music – Thursday 22nd May The Inflatables
Pie & a Pint Try our home-made steak and ale pie alongside a pint of your favourite beer!
Closed Monday Lunchtime • Bar open late Friday and Saturday Nights Kitchen opening times: Mon: 6:30–9 pm, Tues–Sat: 12–2 pm 6:30–9:30 pm Sun: 12:30–3 pm Sunday Lunch : Beef, Lamb or Pork with a free roast for children of 10 or under Quality en-suite rooms with breakfast also available • Orangery available for private parties For information or reservations, please call 01865 882620
6 Information & Activity Fair Thursday 8th May 2008, Get ready for summer The Langdale Hall, Witney with this month’s Following the success of the Witney Information Fair held special treatment last April and the successful Burford Information Fair held in April this year, Age Concern Oxfordshire, City & County will be running an Information & Activity Fair in Witney at the Langdale Hall on Thursday 8th May from 10am to 2.30pm. PEDICURE This free event will cover a whole range of issues of importance to older people, carer‘s and family members: health, independence, safety, leisure, transport, finance and much more, with professionals from many different 10% off in May organisations on hand to give information and advice first hand. Throughout the day there will be Free Exercise Taster Sessions and Talks including; • Dance and Stretch Exercise Taster at 11.00am Forever Young • A Talk on ‘Men’s Health’ at 11.35am Health and Beauty • A Chair Supported Exercise Taster at 1.30pm plus Free Refreshments throughout the day and a For an appointment please call Free Prize Draw. Elena on 01865 884096
Keep fit & Have Fun at Beauty therapy Aroma therapy Reflexology Electrolysis a Class Near You Property marking with a difference Eynsham - Dance & Stretch (for the Over 50’s) Wednesdays at St Leonard’s Hall from 1.20 to 2.30 A DNA marking system that helps to deter distraction For more information please contact Coralie on 07767 360854 burglars is being offered to residents by the West Woodstock - Dance & Stretch (for the Over 50’s) Oxfordshire Community Safety Partnership. Wednesdays at The Town Hall from 11.30 to 12.30 The Selecta DNA kits, manufactured by Selectamark For more information please contact Coralie on 07767 360854 Security Systems, can be used to mark items from war Freeland - Chair Supported Exercise Class (for the Over 50’s) medals, jewellery and pictures to passports and birth Fridays at the Village Hall from 10.00 to 10.45 certificates. Unique microdot codes, which can only be For more information please contact Olwen on 01993 773432 viewed with an ultra-violet lamp once dry, are pasted Middle Barton - Chair Supported Class (for the over 50’s) onto the item. The code of numbers and letters can then Mondays at the Alice Marshall Hall from 10.30 to 11.30. be detected and cross-checked on a database held by the For More Details please contact Marilyn on 01993 811778 police if the items are found after being stolen. The microdots can only be removed by severely damaging or destroying the item but if the microdots should be destroyed the property’s owner can still be traced as the solution has a unique synthetic DNA strand. Leigh Edwards & Co www.leighedwards.com Bill Butcher, Crime Reduction Adviser said: “Some kits divorce and family law specialist have already been provided free to residents that we have identified as the most vulnerable in the district, but the pre-marriage and living together agreements ~ cohabitation issues Community Safety Partnership is now making them divorce separation and children disputes available to anyone. They come with full instructions and are very easy to use. They usually sell for £49 each but we weekend and evening appointments available ~ friendly sensible advice easy parking are selling them for £15.” Window stickers are provided to display and deter for a free intial consultation call potential burglars. Each kit can security mark up to 100 01865 378243 items. Anyone interested in purchasing a kit should Regulated by contact Bill Butcher on 01993 861638. 41 Rutten Lane Yarnton Oxon The Law Society
7 The 1mile junior Fun Run was won by Callum Haseler BLENHEIM 7K (U15) of Cheltenham & County Harriers in 6:16, with Bethany Hawtin (U12) of Oxford City AC coming in a F NN R N close second at 6:18. Among the fun runners was a strong FUU RUUN contingent of St Peter’s School pupils, with Josh Murphy (above left) coming in a brilliant 21st place in 8:00 for the The threatened rain was nowhere to be seen on Saturday boys, with Luke Hoesli, Stephen Wright and Alex Bakewell 27 April for the annual Blenheim 7k race and junior 1 in hot pursuit. The St Peter’s girls were led in by Taz mile Fun Run. As ever this was a good natured and Hoesli (top right) in 9:97, with Charlotte Murphy, Bonnie enjoyable family event with over 400 runners in the main Harvey and Lorna Petty close behind. race and 120 in the junior fun run. As well as keen local Trophies were presented by Colin Carrit, Mayor of runners, and those just running for fun, the race attracted Woodstock. Profits from the event will go to St Peter’s the very keen from as far afield as Watford, Cirencester School, Woodstock Youth Club and other Oxfordshire and Milton Keynes. Charities. Thanks must go to Sarah Airey, Elaine Butler Category winners for the main race were: and the large team of helpers necessary to make an event Senior Men such as this a success; lead sponsors Breckon & Breckon; 1st Dave Roper (602), Cheltenham and County Harriers - 24:08 (1st) and sponsors Hanson, Henmans, Worton Park, 2nd Stephen Hands (461), Headington RRC - 25:52 (2nd) Solutions4Feet, Elsevier, Owen Munford, Alan Aston Roofing, and FinePrint. Thanks also to The Duke of Senior Women Marlborough for allowing the run to enjoy the 1st Melissa Hawtin (498), Oxford City AC - 27:10 (8th) magnificent venue of Blenheim Palace, and of course to 2nd Stephanie Lane (237), Bourton Roadrunners - 27:30 (10th) all the runners who took part, and their supporters. Full details of runners and times soon to be found at www.blenheim7k.co.uk. Boys U15 Richard Cadle (354), Bicester AC - 29:43 (19th) Vet Men (40-49) Robert Storey (239) - 29:18 (14th) Vet Men (50-59) Automotive Martin Grimsdale (437), Watford Harriers AC - 30:27 (34th) Vet Men (60+) mobile valeting Arthur Airey (340), Thame Runners - 32:32 (63rd) covering oxfordshire Girls U15 Lauren Hawtin (499), Oxford City AC - 29:21 (16th) Vet Ladies (35-44) Chris Fellows Suzanne Enhard (413), Compton Harriers RC - 31:04 (45th) 23 St Peter’s Close, Cassington Vet Ladies (45-54) for a free quote just call Lucy Gettins (595), Compton Harriers RC - 33:51 (82nd) Vet Ladies (55+) Val Russell (372), Marshall Milton Keynes AC - 40:58 (208th) 07765 439 662
8 Cassington Women’s Institute
The April meeting was an open one, guests and members were welcomed by president Jane Cook. After the apologies were given, Jane Cook read out the names of the committee and the tasks each does. Margaret Partridge read the record of the March AGM meeting and a report of the federation AGM. It was noted that the group meeting was a great success, matters arising and correspondence was dealt with and Margaret gave out the new programme. Jane introduced the speaker Andy Hughes a freelance NEW CLASS STARTING! radio news reader working with the commercial stations for the last 18 years. He explained that the bulletin has to be a set time. He said the information comes from the North East West South, initials making the word Adult Ballet news. He challenged Audrey Bishop to read a bulletin in 2 minutes and she did very well only having 4 lines left to Wednesdays 7.30 - 830 read at the end of the 2 minutes. He gave us an Cassington Village Hall insight into the work of a radio news room. He was thanked by Pat Evans. Refreshments were served by Open class. All standards welcome Barbarba Collett and Ann Humphris, and the raffle prizes Classes starting on the 23rd April were won by Ann Humphris, Diane Williams, Carol Hutson and Micheal Cook. Please call to book a place or ask any questions The jumble sale on the 19th was a success we would like 07803 954363 to thank all those who helped make it so. Our next meeting is in the village hall on the 15th May which will be our resolutions meeting. Ann Humphris 01865 880983
Saltbox Music Sessions are now being held at Cassington Playgroup on Tuesday afternoons from 2.15-2.45pm. These fun sessions are open to all children from 6 months to school age and cost £3 per Tuesday Ballet Age 3-6 3.15 – 4.00 session per family. Ballet Age 7-10 4.00 – 4.45 Ballet Age 11-18 4.45 – 5.30 Telephone Sara Partridge on 882647 for more Tap Age 8-14 5.30 – 6.15 information, or just turn up to one of the sessions. Beginners Jazz Adult 6.15 – 7.15
Wednesday Adult Ballet 7.30 – 8.30
Thursday Street Jazz Age 12-18 5.00 – 6.00 DIRTY CARPETS? UPHOLSTERY? CURTAINS? Beginners Tap Adult 6.00 – 7.00
CALL Friday Tap & jazz Age 5-10 4.00 – 5.00 Street jazz Age 8-12 5.00 – 6.00 GRIMEBUSTERS Inter tap Adults 6.00 – 7.00 Aerobics Adults * 7.00 – 8.00 YOUR LOCAL PROFESSIONAL CLEANING FIRM
www.grimebusters.co.uk All classes take place in Cassington Village Hall Please call to reserve a place 07803 954363 QUALITY WORK • COMPETITIVE PRICES • DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL Email: [email protected] STAIN PROTECTION • ORIENTAL RUGS • PRE/POST OCCUPANCY CLEANING FLOOD & FIRE CLEAN-UP/DRYING • INSURANCE WORK UNDERTAKEN Term starts Tuesday 21st April 08 For free estimates or advice, please call: * Pay as you go class Oxford (01865) 726983 Abingdon (01235) 555533 Witney (01993) 868924
9 what’s on?
Gifts & Treats Fair CINEMA IN CASSINGTON Langsdale Hall, Witney, Saturday 3rd May 2008, 10am – 4pm The next Cassington Village Hall film presentation will be: Saturday 7th June 2008, 10am – 4pm
Gifts and treats will be sold at fantastic prices – many items are The Kite Runner Fairtrade and unavailable on the high street. Items include bags, Friday 9th May at 7.30pm Jewellery, Art, Cosmetics, Perfume, Pottery, Cards, Toys, Books, Beauty Treatments, Toiletries, Gift Vouchers, Wrapping Paper, Doors open 7.00pm (Refreshments) Scarves, Lingerie, Clothes, Shoes, Accessories, Gadgets, Cakes, Chocolates, Homeware and much much more! The Kite Runner is a simple, down to earth story of good versus evil. Basic themes of loyalty and integrity resonate FREE Entrance, FREE Competitions to Enter, FREE more than the film’s constantly shifting political refreshments, FREE Arts & Crafts, FREE Face Painting. landscape of Afghanistan which serves as backdrop. And whilst some of the vivid detail in Khalid Hosseini’s NOT TO BE MISSED! best-selling novel does get lost in translation, director Marc Forster hits all the emotional high notes. Certificate 12A Tickets on sale now, £4 each Sunday Afternoon Special In advance from Carolyn, 884458, or on the door
Cassington Village Hall, 4 May 4pm Cassington Village Hall films are provided by “Movies on the Move” - a project run by Chipping Norton Theatre and West Oxfordshire District An informal all age event with a short talk, Council with funding from the European Community Leader Plus initiative. songs and activities for children. Followed by afternoon tea. Everyone welcome COMING SOON ... and next month ... The Oxford Murders Sunday Afternoon Special Friday 12 September Sunday 29 June at 4pm in the Village Hall Indiana Jones and the Kingdom brought to you by of the Crystal Skull St Peter’s Church, Cassington Friday 7 November
May Day Celebration in the Square 2008 May Day Bank Holiday Monday The Square, Eynsham DOUBLE CUT a thriller by Alfred Morris and May Pole dancing, fete activities, art Shaughnessy is the Bartholomew Players’ competition, music and entertainment throughout spring production at Eynsham Village Hall the day, KidZone, BBQ, tea, coffee, and cakes. on Weds 14, Thurs 15, and Friday 16 May. We hope to see you there! Tickets £7; concessions £6 from Evenlode DIY or on the door. Doors open 7.15pm; performance starts 7.45pm. Bridewell Organic Gardens will be open on 18th May, 2008 from 2 – 5 p.m. CASSINGTON WI Teas, plants and Bridewell organic wine for sale. THURSDAY 15th May 7.45 pm Bridewell is situated in Wilcote, between MEETING AT THE VILLAGE HALL North Leigh and Finstock. For more information, please telephone Resolutions Meeting 01993 864530
10 what’s on?
Annual Parish Meeting Banbury Cross Players present Wednesday 21 May Men of the World 7.30 p.m. in St Peter’s School Hall, The Green by J Godber Cassington. (Please note that this is a changed venue - the The Mill Theatre, Banbury meeting will not be in the Village Hall) Wednesday 16th July 2008 to Saturday 19th July 2008, 7.45pm Please come! Meet Cassington residents and hear Banbury Cross Players produce four plays a year at the Mill Theatre Banbury. about village activities Season ticket available. Please contact: [email protected] or 07802 301726, or Cinnabar 20 Dunnock Close Bicester OX26 6WZ for details of the 2008/09 season or season tickets. FARM OPEN DAY
st A fun day out for all the family! Sunday 1 June A Summer’s evening light classical concert in Oxford 10am – 6pm for only £8: that MUST be worth a second glance ...
FREE Admission PACT - Parents And Children Together, Trailer tours to see the animals the family charity of the Church of England in Berks, Bucks and Oxon is the lucky beneficiary of this Food & drink by the River Thames forthcoming concert. Guided walks through the flower meadows LIGHT CLASSICAL CONCERT BY Local produce & crafts THE READCLIFFE ORCHESTRA FAI Farms Ltd, The Field Station, Wytham, Oxford, OX2 8QJ Saturday 7 June Just off the A34 near Botley 01865 790880 www.faifarms.co.uk Tingewick Concert Hall of the John Radcliife Hospital at 7.30pm
CASSINGTON CAFÉ This value-for-money opportunity promises a popular CASSINGTON VILLAGE HALL programme followed by leisurely cheese and wine refreshments and a chance to meet the musicians.The date Monday June 2nd from 10am to noon. is PACT has been around for nearly 100 years, originally as We look forward to seeing you all then! an adoption agency, but now also placing children for fostering with families throughout our locality. In addition, the charity runs many housing and community projects for Cassington Bookworms families such as Children’s Centres and drop-ins. Join us on Monday 2 June at 8pm at For more information about PACT, or to book tickets, please the house of Margaret Bonfiglioli call 0118 938 7600 or visit the website www.pactcharity.org (Old Manor, Bell Lane, Cassington). This month’s book is ‘The Secret Life of Bees’ by Sue Monk Kidd. For further information call 01865 880709. ARK N’FLOOD The Ark story with Live and other Music, Performers of all Ages and an Audience who The C Factor will be invited to join in occasionally. 6.00 pm, Saturday, 28 June Cassington Village Hall Worton Farm Saturday 14th June If weather permits we will be outside by the Pool- if it doesn’t then performance will be inside. Doors open 7pm with Bar Raising money towards providing, overseas, fresh Four judges – eight acts. water for the huge number of people who do not yet Which one of your friends or neighbours has what have it and, at home, support for the work of the it takes to win The C(assington) Factor? Friends of St. Peters Church. Tickets £10, concessions and children £6 Fun event in aid of (includes buffet and glass of something). Cassington Sports & Social Club Ample parking, refreshments, bar. Tickets £5 from the Red Lion ‘Ark n’Flood’ tickets will shortly be obtainable from: For further info: [email protected] Elspeth Ferriday, Kate Cropper, Joy Rummey, 07989 984895 Olaf Rock, ‘The Chequers’, ‘The Red Lion’.
118 Beginners writing competition
Beginner’s Writing Competition I. I was very pleased to have eight entries and to have Sue Jean Fox gets an honourable mention for her romantic Hemingway as our independent judge. Thank you all. and lyrical ballad – the best of those in verse. Jean had put the newsletter out for recycling and then found those Sue received the entries without any identifying marks. opening lines going round in her head and keeping her She had positive comments to make about all the entries. awake till she had to write ‘just for fun’. The prize goes to Carolyn Hinton, who says she has not done any creative writing for more than thirty years. So please can we have some more creative fun from the Congratulations Carolyn! next competition. Sue liked the way Carolyn avoided the obvious and Margaret Bonfiglioli created something modern and meaningful with some very effective details.
My father was the keeper of the Eddystone Light long gone; all deprived me by my pastel sterile And he slept with a mermaid one fine night cage. The blanket of inertia wraps me and smothers And from their union there came three me as I lie weighed down under my pretty pink A porpoise, and a Porgie, candlewick. And the other was me ... A voice of long ago urges escape, a gathering of the last vestiges of energy into an action but it is so ‘Away with the fairies that one, can’t you shut her up, difficult. With all my concentration focussed so tight all that talk about mermaids gives me the heebee it hurts, I put my oh so old feet to the floor, cross the jeebies. My Linda says they shouldn’t let in the likes cold hard floor and open the sash window. As the icy of her disturbing the rest of us, lost her marbles she blast of sea breeze enters the too warm, too-clean cell has.’ I am shocked into feeling. Feeling, what a wonderful ‘Costs a lot this place, they look after you well, nice word, what an elusive emotion. view, nice people, don’t want her sort in here. State The numbness quickened I move the chair to the should look after them, give them proper care. It’s not polished dressing table and pull myself up. The wind that I don’t feel sorry for her you understand I just blows through my cotton nightdress and I shiver – so don’t think she should be here with us.’ good, so real. The sound of the waves below crashes I hear but don’t listen, still trying to trawl the depths my senses and I let myself go falling, falling down to of memory for the last few words. I try so hard but the watery depths and free from my earthly non- no, hidden too deep, too dark, the forgetfulness is existence. victor. I swim off towards the light with a flick of my Now I am losing the only choice I have left, the choice iridescent tail. of memories to follow, I truly am nothing. The choices of what to eat, what to wear, where to go, Carolyn Hinton
Beginner’s Writing Competition II In aid of repair to Church Spire. Independent Judges. These are the last lines from a story by a well known All Ages welcome. English writer - no need to know who just yet - this is a more demanding task than the last competition - see Write, in no more than 500 words of prose, a story what inspiration and suggestions you can find in these which ENDS as follows: lines to launch yourself into writing a well shaped short “I come that day to say good-bye!, and I never said it, story. well, the water give no time, but I live in hopes. Your Entry fee £3 payable to the friends of St Peter’s Church. obdt. servant, Joe Boswell”. And only then she realised Small prize. Entries to Margaret Bonfiglioli. he had a name. Deadline May 20th 2008.
12 AN EVERYDAY TALE OF THE SEA I told my Mama of my love, her face it glowed with pleasure She told me of a sunken ship which could, perchance, hold treasure My Father was the Keeper of the Eddystone Light and he slept with a mermaid one fine night The seas are deep and dangerous wherein that ship did lie And from their union there came three: Men had tried to reach that ship and sadly men did die a Porpoise and a Porgie, and the other was me But Mama was a mermaid and I, half-mermaid true So we mode plans to plumb the depths and find that ship, we two With Daddy’s infidelity his wife was most displeased Although as time passed by it seemed her pain was greatly eased I did not tell Francisco or my Daddy what we planned She fed us and she cared for us with no complaint or moan As they would both forbid it and to swim I would be banned She treat us as her children as she’d no child of her own Mama said that we should wait until the weather calmed We’d need ideal conditions to ensure we’d not be harmed Our life was good and carefree so we had a lot of fun Our Mermaid Mama sang to us at going down of sun The days they dragged by slowly till at last warm days arrived We grew up fine and healthy and we swam each day in sea Time to activate the plan Mama and I contrived The Porpoise and the Porgie and the mini-Mermaid, me The sun was hot, the sea was calm, we dived into the blue Down into the depths we plunged to do what we must do We didn’t go to school of course but were superbly taught Our father was a learned man and wonders to us brought We came upon that sunken ship held fast upon a reef The stories that he told us showed a world we didn’t know A galleon proud she was until she sadly came to grief And we longed for adventure and we hoped one day we’d go We probed into the heart of her, a ghostly feeling there No treasure did we come across. I felt pangs of despair As years passed by we all grew strong, the instinct came to roam Then came the day when Porpoise and dear Porgie both left home We left that ship. Mama and I, broke surface into sun It was so lonely when they left although I wished them well No treasure found but we had both experienced great fun I hoped they’d be successful but who could ever tell Mama she smiled, embraced me tight, then brushed away a curl Held out her hand in which she held a beautiful black pearl My Mama said a young Merman would like to marry me “I’m sorry dear Mama” I said, but that just cannot be Dear child, take this it will provide those things dear to your heart Because I love another, the son of Salty Jim A home, a future with your love so you may never part His name it is Francisco, an artist, I loved him Francisco is a gentle soul, your future beckons bright Together may you live in peace, beneath Eddystone Light. Francisco vowed he loved me true but we must wait to wed “A simple artist, penniless is what I am” he said Jean Fox
Paul & Gill would like to welcome you to a Traditional English pub with an open fire ... THE RED LION CASSINGTON Open 12-2, 5-til closing Open all day Saturday & Sunday Great Ales, Beers & Wine Bar Food available, Teas & Coffee Fish & Chip Nite last Friday of the month Quiz Nites Live Music and Karaoke BBQs Sky Sports, Pool, Darts, Bar Billiards & Aunt Sally LARGE GARDEN NOW OPEN Children’s play area opening soon
We look forward to serving you PLEASE WATCH OUR BOARD & THIS SPACE The Red Lion, The Green, Cassington Tel: 881371 FOR UP-COMING EVENTS
13 noticeboard
Village Dates for AVON Village Hall Bookings your diary CALLING Unless shown, events are in the Village Hall Hello! My name is Julie Perrin and I am Cassington’s Avon Lady! May If you would like a friendly and convenient Thursday 1st May door to door service for all your toiletries, Local Election Polling Station make-up and luxuries, please contact me at For information and to book the Sunday 4th May, 4.00pm Triwoods House, 44, Eynsham Road, Village Hall, contact: Cassington for your free catalogue. Sunday Afternoon Special Nicky Copelin I will be pleased to add you to my round. The New House, The Green, Cassington Thursday 8th May, 7.30pm Tel: 07984 140319 or 01865 881813 Parish Council Meeting Julie Perrin Email: [email protected] All welcome Friday 9th May – FILM The Kite Runner Baby and toddler group Pretty hand-made Thursday 15th May, 7.45pm Resolutions Meeting Join us for a drink and a chat cards Cassington WI Tuesdays In a variety of mediums using real pressed flowers, 3D images, painting on acetate, Wednesday 21st May, 7.30pm Lisa Tyler 880619 paper flowers, ribbon and glitter etc. Annual Parish Meeting for more information St Peter’s School Hall Cards made for all ages. Special occasions and orders can be made. Prices vary from approximately June £1.80 to £4.50. Do you know there is a free Monday 2nd June, 10.00 to 12 noon service to Cassington Carol Baldwin, Silver Birches, Yarnton Road Cassington Café Cassington Oxon OX29 4DY residents that will take you to Tel. No. 01865 881454 Monday 2nd June, 8.00pm the doctors’ or hospital? Cassington Bookworms E-mail:[email protected] Old Manor, Bell Lane. Saturday 14th June, 7.00pm The C Factor MINI-TRAMPOLINE In aid of Cassington Sports & Social Club For toddlers and small children. Saturday 28th June, 6.00pm Approx 4’6” x 3’ with handrail. Ark N’Flood This is run by volunteers and is Worton Farm available by phoning: Free to good home - 884458 Pam Turner 880492 or Tickets for films and shows from: Pat Vereker 880693 Carolyn Hinton (01865 884458) Nicky Copelin (01865 881813) Please give us as much HATE IRONING? Amanda Fancourt (01865 880581) notice as possible THEN TAKE IT TO ELSIE @ 15, ELMS ROAD, CASSINGTON Tel. 01865 882168 for further details Visit Cassington community web site ... www.cassington.info BABYSITTING? ODD JOBS? POLICE CONTACTS Call Johnny (17) or Lydie (15) Horgan 01865 881480 If you need the Police but it is not an emergency please ring 0845 8 505 505 You can use this number to contact the new Police Community Support Officers, Helen noticeboard ... Keen and Robert Hopping, to let them know For local services, ‘for sale’ or similar what’s going on. Helen and Robert will be notices, please send copy (by email if regularly patrolling in Cassington. possible) to the usual address. Eynsham Police Office: (Volunteer Station) Mon 2 - 4pm. Tues, Wed, Sat 9am -12noon. Appropriate notices are FREE, but Thurs 6 - 8pm will only be placed at our discretion.
14