February - March 2020 Price 50p

A CONFESSION

have to confess that over the One of the things that occurs to due to a willingness to change, Ipast couple of months, we me, is just how much the despite personal preferences have become a tiny bit addicted. institution of the monarchy has and opinions. The essence of Only a tiny bit, but nevertheless changed in my lifetime, little by monarchy remains the same, a very small obsession has little, step by tiny step. But but the expression of it has emerged. You see, at the end of change it has, responding to changed and is changing. the day, whenever we’ve our culture and society, seeking finished work, forever hopeful to be relevant and engaged. I believe the same is true for that we might, just might get a another institution - the Church. full night’s sleep and not be The essence of the Church as wide awake at 4.17am, we sit the body of Christ remains the down to watch something. same as it did when the first Something that will be believers met together in the entertaining. Something Temple or in their homes to amusing. Something not too worship God. But the stimulating. Nine times out of expression of it has shifted and ten there isn’t much on. changed over the years. And it But...but now we’ve discovered needs to continually change ‘The Crown’ on Netflix – and we The episode focussing on Lord and adapt for its survival, so love it. Altrincham (of whom I had that the message of God’s never heard) was fascinating. unconditional love for us is Now I know that we are very Whether he met the Queen or seen to be relevant and behind the times, and you have not is a question for debate, but engaging now, and for future probably watched every single from what I have read, his generations. episode, but it’s compulsive influence was enough for the viewing. I’ve even managed to Queen (and her advisors) to suppress my feeling of stop certain things and to start disloyalty to HM for watching it. others. Although I think she comes out of it rather well. I have Who would have thought that a absolutely no idea how much of televised Christmas message it is fact, or how much of it is or a garden party for people like Steph fiction. But we are thoroughly you and me could be so radical enjoying it and have even and contentious?! I cannot help Please read additional justified watching two episodes but think that the survival of the information from Steph on in one sitting! monarchy has been partially Page 3, 4, 5 and 10

Copy Deadline for April / May 2020 issue Wednesday 6 March 2020 TODAY February / March 2020

THE EXE VALLEY CHURCHWARDEN CHILDREN’S MISSION COMMUNITY CONTACT DETAILS GROUPS Calverleigh, Cruwys CALVERLEIGH EXE VALLEY TODDLERS Morchard, Loxbeare, Aubrey Goldsworthy 01884 255248 (For under 5ives) [email protected] Friday mornings during Term-time Jackie Herniman 01884 255814 Oakford, Rackenford, at Calverleigh Village Hall [email protected] Stoodleigh, Templeton, 10 am - 12 noon CRUWYS MORCHARD Washfield and Withleigh Toys, snacks, songs and more !! Diana Vincent 01363 860227 For more information contact [email protected] Sophie Webber on 07792259081 Sarah Cruwys 01884 860287 [email protected] [email protected] You can also find us on Facebook RECTOR LOXBEARE Ron Tidball 01884 881362 EDITORIAL The Rectory, Withleigh, [email protected] Jean Heard 01884 881400 We are delighted to be able to tell you Tiverton, EX16 8JQ [email protected] that an “Angel of Mercy” has appeared Tel: 01884 250417 OAKFORD to take over the Magazine and we Email : Steph@ Wendy Boynton 01398 351383 thank her most gratefully. exevalleymissioncommunity.org [email protected] Dawn Williams, who is a Churchwarden Dawn Williams 01398 324035 in Oakford, has produced this issue [email protected] (with a little help from her friends) and PERSONAL ASSISTANT RACKENFORD she has done exceptionally well. We Please contact Personal Assistant have had great fun during “Training” Stephen Hirst Steven Hirst and Geoff and I are so happy and C/O The Rectory Details in first column relieved that the “TODAY” Magazine is going to be in such good hands. Tel: 01884 250417 STOODLEIGH Email: office@ Margaret Cuningham 01398 351252 Dawn is also planning to tackle the exevalleymissioncommunity.org [email protected] Advertising so, in addition to the other Peter Broadbent 01398 351374 work she does for the Mission READER [email protected] Community, she will be extremely busy. TEMPLETON Please treat her gently !! William Withers 01884 253030 Keepers Cottage is now “Sold Subject The Paddock, [email protected] to Contract” with exchange expected 2 Kensington Court, Reg Coffin 01884 860246 soon and we expect to move before the Washfield,Tiverton,EX16 9QU [email protected] end of March. We have reserved a “New Build” house in Lydney, Tel: 01884 253463 WASHFIELD Jeanne Jones 01884 254306 Gloucestershire, which will not be [email protected] [email protected] ready until the Summer, so we are planning to go into a rented property - MAGAZINE EDITOR WITHLEIGH and have a rest !! Brenda Tucker 01884 252431 [email protected] Saying “Good-bye” is sad, Paul Iliff 01884 253473 so we’ll leave it unsaid. [email protected] Jenny and Geoff

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2 TODAY February / March 2020

FROM Steph … …

Prayer Breakfasts

Come and meet to pray over a Croissant and Coffee on 29 February and 28 March 9am in The Rectory, Withleigh Everyone is welcome !

You are invited to attend The times they are a-changing! From February 2020, our A MARRIAGE PREPARATION DAY Morning Service pattern is changing. A day of preparation for your All Services throughout the Mission Community will take place at either married life together, at 9.00am or 10.45am. Cruwys Morchard Village Hall on Saturday 1 February 2020 10.30am - 2.30pm

Tea, Coffee, Lunch provided - please inform us of any special dietary requirements This is to allow Steph enough time to get from one Service to another, RSVP:- [email protected] for organists to play at more than one Service, and for everyone to have Andy Humm ~ Robert Gordon ~ Steph Gordon-Jeffs an earlier lunch!

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3 TODAY February / March 2020

FROM Steph … …

Exeter Cathedral Saturday 22 February 2020 10am - 4.30pm A festival of thought and action to join up faith and the environment Panel discussion + Workshops including: Biodiversity, Climate Science and Adaptation Creative Responses, Direct Action, Energy and Travel Engaging MPs, Food, International Perspectives Theology, Worship. Keynote Speaker - Rt Rev’d Nick Holtam Lead Bishop for the Environment £8 to cover Speaker Costs. Under 16s free Please book in Eventbrite - more details via https://exeter.anglican.org/events/the-bid-green-event/

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4 TODAY February / March 2020

FROM Steph … …

The Blessings Course Sing Praise! Roy Godwin’s story of how God worked in an unexpected way in his rural community of Ffald-y-Brenin in Wales, is quite extraordinary. Come and join us for

You can read his account of what happened ‘Sing Praise!’ in his book, ‘The Grace Outpouring’. for the first time in 2020 It is the kind of book that challenges you. It’s the kind of book that changes you. Thursday 20 February

‘The Blessings Course’ 7.00pm at Withleigh explores what God does, and can do, when our focus is on blessing – blessing our families, our friends and our communities and allowing our Churches to become ‘God’s conduit for blessing to those around us’.

Come and find out what it’s all about during Lent, 7pm at The Rectory, Withleigh.

4 March The God who blesses 11 March Being blessed EXE VALLEY WEBSITE 18 March Have you visited our website recently? Called to bless www.exevalleychurches.org

25 March If you haven’t, do take a look. Blessing the Person in front of me It’s the best place to go for updates 1 April about what’s on and what we do. A new Life and a New Community 8 April A recent addition to the website is a monthly Blessing the land Prayer Diary with a topic to pray for, each day of the month.

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5 TODAY February / March 2020

weather and flu prevented any meetings FROM THE ARCHIVES during January. NATURE NOTES

‘TODAY’ 50 years ago Fun and games at Rackenford’s Sunday here was once a farmer who bought February / March, 1970 School party in January had seen two Ta derelict farm and transformed it blindfolded mothers trying to feed each into a great success. The Reverend, he February lead article concerned other jelly! The interior of the church was who had watched the development, Tpoliticians, and the choice they had to being given a face lift, and the first of a congratulated him on what he had make between toeing the party line, their series of family services had been tried achieved with the help of God. The own feelings, and the wishes of those successfully in January. The March farmer comments that on the evidence, who had voted them into office, and the magazine recognised all those who work if left to God’s devices, it wouldn’t have considered opinion that some had taken un-noticed to keep the Church functioning. been much without his intervention. It us too far, too fast, and sometimes in the is a very old joke, not very funny and wrong direction. The ‘Stoodleigh Beacon’ focussed at not helped by my presentation in a wish length on whether there was any tie-up to save ink. They should be accountable to those who between the school (at risk of closure) put them in office. (An election was in the and School Cottages. People were eager My thoughts have been triggered by the to move into the cottages if these could offing). In March, severe criticism was artificiality of the festive season and the aimed at those who believed we should be sold without prejudicing the future of lengths we go, to drag Nature out of its buy our food at the lowest possible cost the school. from wherever in the world, rather than dormancy to be included in the supporting our own farmers. Templeton’s Church Tower was in need celebrations. It is almost as if we need of further work to remedy leaks where the nearness of some greenery, and Funds had come into the Lay Committee roots of the tree which had formerly the comforting thoughts of queues of at such a pace that the group was now in grown out of the wall had been removed. hares waiting to look up at a full moon a position to buy a new minibus. Templeton were raising funds through the from the corner of a snowy field. sale of ‘rich farm manure’ at 3/- for a A change in the timing of the Devon ½cwt bag. Presumably there are also some General 91 bus (Witheridge to Tiverton) people out there who buy heather that from the beginning of March will make life Washfield youth club members organised has been dyed. I would be very easier for those wishing to visit Post Hill a pancake party in February which, apart interested to know what they do with it Hospital. from being enjoyable, had resulted in as the supermarket shelves seem to some unusual decorations in the kitchen! empty. Conversely, we have a friend In February, Calverleigh held a second who once hollowed out a beetroot and sacred concert in aid of the Spastics With the ‘Criss Cross Quiz’ season embedded a daffodil bulb and planted Society, with 250 people attending, and approaching, Withleigh were ready to it. The pink daffodil was a beauty to raising £27. field two teams. The working party had behold. carried out further work on hassocks, Loxbeare’s social had been postponed book markers, etc. The manager of What about the 79 Christmas trees Lloyds Bank in Tiverton gave the W.I. ‘an from Christmas until February. decorated by local groups around the interesting talk’ on the decimal change- over, something which everyone was Crediton Parish Church and the uplit Oakford’s Poultry Whist Drive, in aid of trees at Knightshayes that must have Cancer Research, raised £23, despite dreading! The football team had been on good form recently. the seal of approval? Where do we postponement due to the weather and the draw the line? flu epidemic which had ravaged the village. The Guides had enjoyed a New Year’s Eve party at ‘Lower Combe’, but City folk have their own take on this and Paul Iliff if you ever venture to London I would

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6 TODAY February / March 2020

LIGHTHOUSE NEWS recommend a visit to Coal Drops Yard behind King’s Cross station at any Proclaiming the Gospel since 1988 time of year. During the festive time By serving Him, we are serving you they grouped real Christmas trees in bunches, and sprayed them with the Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk colours last seen in Monsters, Inc. – in darkness, but will have the light of life’. so we see unnatural limes, purples, John 8:12 (NIV) blues of closely arranged trees uplit against the steely black background as It is now official. Not only is the shop called Lighthouse Christian Books and Cafe, so is the befits the origins of the yard. charity that runs it. We have managed to change the registered name from New Creation Christian Book and Coffee Shop, but have kept the same registered number. At least there is one group that The constitution of the trust stays the same, with only the addition of the name change, as do improves on Nature without us our aims. We want to be a Christian presence on the high street, ready to serve all who come knowing. You only have to venture into into the shop and helping to spread the Good News of Jesus to all who are willing to listen. our churches before the service to see what the flower arrangers have We look back with fondness to the “old” shop at No 58 and recognize the wonderful work that achieved – artifice yes, with forms and was done there serving the Lord for just over 31 years. But the move to No 13 was a new start, colours coordinated as nature never hence a new name. We just hope and pray that, with God’s help, we can build on the legacy of New Creation as we move forward to face the future. intended but their skill {often self taught} reveals details and beauty we Having been a member of the original small prayer group given a vision for a Christian Book have never appreciated – we should and Coffee Shop back in 1987, part of the leadership team of New Creation right from its call them Capability. beginning in October 1988, and a trustee when it became a Charity in 1997, Maureen Rendell has decided to take a step back. At our meeting in early December she told us that, after much prayer, she was resigning from her role as a trustee and from the leadership team. Thomas More

However, the desire to see everyone given an opportunity to meet the love of the Lord in an everyday environment is still very much on her heart and she will continue to support the work of the Charity as much as she can. For more than 31 years she has served the Lord by 2 PRAYERS working in most areas and will be missed. We pray that she will enjoy her “retirement”, although God may lead her in another direction in the future! My dearest Lord, It has been decided to amend our opening hours and close at 4:30 pm on Mondays to Fridays. Be Thou a bright flame before me, We have very few customers after 4:00 pm so this seems a sensible move. However, it will be Be Thou my guiding star above me, kept under review and as the evening get lighter nearer Easter, we will reconsider staying open Be Thou the smooth path beneath me, till 5:00 pm again Be Thou a kindly Shepherd behind me, today and evermore. And with Easter coming, do not forget that we stock a range of Easter cards and the Real Easter Egg. We will also have material for your church’s, or home group’s, Lent Course, etc. ST COLUMBA (521 - 597)

God - grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, Lighthouse Christian Book and Coffee Shop the courage to change 13 Bampton Street, Tiverton EX16 6AA Tel: 01884 255769 the things I can and the [email protected] [email protected] wisdom to know the difference. www.lighthousetiverton.org.uk Charity 1063294 REINHOLD NIEBUHR (1892 - 1971)

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toWest even Ridge start drawing Veterinary at all, not Practice being able to throw a Professional veterinary services for your pets, horses and farm animals throughout Mid-Devon Witheridge 01884 860236 Winkleigh 01837 83240 Lapford 01363 83317 www.westridgevets.co.uk 7 TODAY February / March 2020 PARISH ROUND-UP Our Christingle Service on 1 December Communion. We were delighted to CALVERLEIGH was held in conjunction with the Praise welcome a large congregation to Party. The Service was in Church and celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus then we moved over to the Village hall for Christ. It was good to see so many appy New Year to all and we hope activities, along with refreshments. Our people, with past parishioners returning Hthat you have all had a good thanks go to Doreen Venn who provided to worship with us as well. Christmas and have managed to avoid the the Christingles, Rev’d Steph Gordon- nasty coughs and colds that are Jeffs, Nik, Tash, Dave and Marc (aka At the beginning of January a good circulating at the moment. Professor Chris Tingle (with an quantity of dried and tinned foods and experiment that nearly worked!) for their toiletries was taken into the CHAT We realise that this time of year is not as leading of the service and to Janet and offices from donations given over the enjoyable for everyone, so we remember Steven for providing the music. Thank Christmas period by very generous at this time all who are going through you also to all who provided refreshments parishioners. CHAT staff were delighted difficulties, whether through ill health, or arranged the activities. to receive these goods and our thanks following the loss of a loved one or those go to all who gave contributions. attending numerous hospital The Carol Service was held on 15 appointments. We pray that the skill of December with a full Church. The Service As many of you will know we hold an health professionals will help to ease the was led by Jackie, with a little help from Annual Day of Prayer in May. To anxiety or pain you are feeling and that her young great-nephews. After the compliment this we are going to hold a God will heal you. Do let us know if you Service refreshments including mulled monthly two hour time of prayer, on the would like us to pray for you by name. wine and mince-pies were enjoyed along first Saturday of each month, starting in with tea, coffee, cake and biscuits. The February with the opportunity to make Back in November, our Remembrance Church was beautifully decorated ready prayer requests. More details will be Sunday service was led by Julie. for the Festive Season and our thanks go available in Church or please speak to Reflective music was played before and to all who contributed in any way to a Aubrey Goldsworthy or Jackie Herniman. during the service with a couple of lovely Service. Participants can pray wherever they feel moving poems being read out as a focus comfortable. It does not have to happen of our grateful thanks for all who have Thank you to those from Calverleigh in Church. given their lives through defence of our Church and village residents who country for our freedom. supported the Loxbeare and Calverleigh We are pleased to say that the restoration Carol Singers by joining in on one or more on the Church windows has begun and On Saturday 16 November we had our of the evenings arranged. Thanks also to will continue over the coming months. Autumn Fayre, which was well attended. those who hosted the suppers on the There were the usual festive stalls, three evenings and of course to Ron for Dates for Your Diary tombolas, books, cakes, produce etc. A his hard work arranging it all. craft table was available for the children 1 Feb - Time of Prayer - See above while parents perused the goods on offer. 1 Mar - Praise Party at 3.30pm in Twenty three of you joined us for a Calverleigh Village Hall, including craft Light refreshments were served including Christmas Informal Get-together on 22 bacon baps and delicious home-made and refreshments. December. Having coffee, cake and 8 Mar - Informal Get-together at 10am. soup. Our thanks go to all stallholders, conversation, this is proving to be a refreshment providers, kitchen help and popular time of friendship and fellowship, Cleaning Rota of course all those who attended to make which fits well alongside our normal times 27 Jan / 8 Feb Mrs A Webber this event a great success. It is good to of worship. If you feel you would like to see so many people returning to support come along and join us the next one will 10 / 22 Feb Mrs R Tapp us year on year. Over £900 was raised be on March 8 starting at 10am. 24 Feb / 7 Mar Mrs S Greenslade for church funds. 9 / 21 Mar Mrs N Burton On Christmas Day our Service led by our 23 Mar / 4 Apr Mrs M Herniman Rector Steph was a Cluster Christmas

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8 TODAY February / March 2020 PARISH ROUND-UP Altar Flower Rota Service. We welcomed over 100 people to take place on Saturday 29 February and 19 / 26 Jan Lady L Amory this Service, we were very pleased to have Saturday 28 March in the Parish Hall, 2 / 9 Feb Mrs B Hill Steph with us. It was lovely that so many everyone welcome. 16 / 13 Feb Mrs D Hopper children joined in our Nativity. Thank you LENT No altar flowers to all of you for reading so beautifully, YOGA dressing up and taking part. Refreshments, Yoga continues every Thursday morning, Have we missed anything? If there is including mince pies were enjoyed after split in two groups, the first at 9.30am- something that you think we should have the Service, thank you to everyone who 10.55am, which is a general Hatha class. mentioned, or you have something for gave them. The second 11.05am-12.30pm. A similar inclusion in the next Magazine, please The generous donations that were given class set at an easier more gentle pace. contact Dave Burton 01884 561499 or have now been taken to CHAT where they For further information ring Hilary 01363 [email protected] and are being distributed to those in most need. 866245. [email protected] get the latest on the website at: www.exevalleychurches.org/calverleigh FLOWER and CLEANING ROTA. CRUWYS ARMS GARDENERS meet on We have spaces on the rota, as volunteers the first Wednesday of the month, our have moved away. If you are interested in next meeting is on Wednesday 5 February helping with cleaning and/or flowers in the Cruwys Arms at 8pm, do come and CRUWYS please speak to Cindy Trick. For special join us. For our Club Christmas Dinner we Services, Easter, Harvest and Christmas went to the The Duck at Yeoford, it was we are looking for two people, one to excellent. MORCHARD decorate the window by the font and another to do the window by the pulpit. CRUWYS MORCHARD PARISH HALL. eware, all service times are being Please speak to Cindy if you would like to On 3 April 2020 Cruwys Morchard Parish Bchanged, please consult the centre do this. Hall will host Cleverly Everly, a Tribute pages for current information. If you are 3 / 10 Feb. Sue / Pauline Guscott Band recreating the music of the Everly confused please ring 01884 250417 (not 17 /24 Feb. Anne Gillbard Brothers. The Show consists of two on Tuesdays). LENT halves; the first is dedicated almost solely 25 Feb. Shrove Tuesday to the music of the Everly Brothers and MY KENYA ADVENTURE. 2 / 9 Mar. Lorna Warren primarily features two brothers (Clint and Hi, my name is Jess Kingdom and am at No flowers in Lent Stan Rogers). In the second half, they Tiverton High School, I am going to Kenya 16 / 23 Mar. Carol Chisholm / Jackie expand from two to a four piece band and in 2021. Now I must raise over £2,500 to Mitchell recreate other magical sounds of the participate in the trip where we will help 30 Mar. Cindy Trick Sixties including songs from Elvis Presley, “Africa Adventures” with their projects to 6 April Decorators for Easter The Shadows, Dusty Springfield, Beach benefit local families and children. I am Boys, Cilla Black, Neil Diamond, Buddy collecting aluminium cans as a fundraising The Mowing Rota is not yet available as Holly and many more. Tickets are £11.00. scheme. Please could you save all your we are still looking for volunteers. The Why not pre-order a hot meat or veggie cans and send my Mum a message so I Rota is done on a monthly basis, in normal pasty for the night at only £3.00 each? can come and collect them at any time, or years the Church yards require mowing For tickets follow just drop them off in the bin at our gate, once a week, in dry years not so often! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cleverly- Four Seasons, next to Pennymoor Timber everly-tickets-89069113115 Or email in Pennymoor. Mum: 07790906382. CRUWYS MORCHARD YOUNG [email protected] Thank you all very much. FARMERS. The Club are busy rehearsing for the Sadly Pat Cross, mother of Diana Vincent, CHRISTMAS 2019 Drama Competition to be held at the passed away in December, our prayers A big thank you to all who decorated the beginning of February at Tiverton High and thoughts are with Diana and all her Church for Christmas and those who School. A Bingo was held in November family at this sad time. helped with the Christingle and Carol which was well supported. Bingos will Ian Curtis Painter & Decorator Interior Exterior Tiling Wallpapering Minor repairs Free estimates No VAT Friendly & efficient local service Contact Ian on CallCall us us on: on: 01884 01884 370073 370073 07821 349314 (mobile) www.devonsurfacecare.co.ukwww.devonsurfacecare.co.uk

9 TODAY February / March 2020

Friday 20 to Sunday 22 March

Holy Communion All three of our Bishops will be out and about meeting with Ashes people and attending events taking place around the Diocese. The closest to us will be on Mothering Sunday which will take place on Sunday afternoon at 7pm 26 February Knightshayes Court. Please put the date in your diary and come and meet a Bishop (or 2 !!). WITHLEIGH More details to follow.

2 FEBRUARY 9 FEBRUARY 16 FEBRUARY CALVERLEIGH CALVERLEIGH CALVERLEIGH See Washfield 10.45 am Family Service 9am Morning Worship

CRUWYS MORCHARD CRUWYS MORCHARD CRUWYS MORCHARD 9 am Morning Prayer 10.45 am Family Service See Templeton

LOXBEARE LOXBEARE LOXBEARE See Washfield 10.45 am Family Service 10.45 am Morning Praise

OAKFORD OAKFORD OAKFORD 9 am Morning Praise See Rackenford 6.30 pm Evening Praise

RACKENFORD RACKENFORD RACKENFORD 10.45 am Morning Worship 10.45 am Cluster Service 10.45 am Family Service with Holy Communion STOODLEIGH STOODLEIGH 10.45 am Morning Prayer 6.30 pm Evensong STOODLEIGH TEMPLETON TEMPLETON See Rackenford 10.45 am Family Service 10.45 am Cluster Service TEMPLETON with Holy Communion WASHFIELD 10.45 Morning Service 10.45 am Cluster Service with Holy Communion WASHFIELD WASHFIELD 10.45 am Morning Prayer 10.45 am Family Service

WITHLEIGH WITHLEIGH WITHLEIGH 3 pm Family Service 10.45 am Morning Worship See Templeton with Baptism

10 TODAY February / March 2020

23 FEBRUARY 1 MARCH 8 MARCH CALVERLEIGH CALVERLEIGH OUR 10.45 am Cluster Service 10.45 am Informal get-together with Holy Communion CRUWYS MORCHARD FEBRUARY 10.45 am Family Service MISSION CRUWYS MORCHARD LOXBEARE COMMUNITY 9 am Morning Praise 10.45 am Family Service LOXBEARE GROUP SERVICE OAKFORD See Calverleigh See Stoodleigh with dedication OAKFORD 9 am Morning Praise RACKENFORD is at See Stoodleigh 10.45 am in RACKENFORD STOODLEIGH 10.45 am Morning Worship 10.45 am Cluster Service WASHFIELD with Holy Communion STOODLEIGH 10.45 am Morning Prayer TEMPLETON TEMPLETON 10.45 am Morning Service Everyone 10.45 am Family Service WASHFIELD WASHFIELD welcome. 3.30 pm Evening Prayer See Calverleigh Please come and WITHLEIGH WITHLEIGH 9 am Holy Communion join us !! 10.45 am Informal Service in Vestry

15 MARCH 22 MARCH 29 MARCH MOTHERING SUNDAY CALVERLEIGH 9 am Morning Worship CALVERLEIGH OUR 10.45 am Service MARCH CRUWYS MORCHARD CRUWYS MORCHARD 10.45 am Cluster Service 10.45 am Service MISSION with Holy Communion COMMUNITY LOXBEARE 9 am Breakfast in Village Hall GROUP SERVICE LOXBEARE followed by Church Service No Service is at OAKFORD OAKFORD Coffee and Croissants 10.45 am in 6.30 pm Evening Praise followed by 10.45 am Service CALVERLEIGH RACKENFORD 10.45 am Songs of Praise RACKENFORD 10.45 am Family Service STOODLEIGH 6.30 pm Evensong STOODLEIGH 10.45 am Service TEMPLETON TEMPLETON See Cruwys Morchard Everyone welcome 10.45 am Service WASHFIELD WASHFIELD 10.45 am Family Service 10.45 am Service Please come and WITHLEIGH WITHLEIGH join us !! See Cruwys Morchard 10.45 am Service

11 TODAY February / March 2020 PARISH ROUND-UP

We must say goodbye to Vine and A small number of Carol Singers visited It is good to hear that Muriel Ferris, Sue Jonathan Spragg who are moving to the Homes and sang carols to the Troake, Leslie Tidball and Cecil Partridge Sussex in March, they will be greatly patients with visitors and staff joining in. are progressing well following their missed having lived at Longacre for over It was a very worthwhile and happy operations. We continue to pray for them 20 years. afternoon. and Katy Barlow for a speedy recovery and Liz Wareham after her fall. Our We also say goodbye to Carla and Dean Also a big thank you to the Carol Singers, thoughts are with Steven Radford and Aslett, who have been so much part of the though few in number, who sang on the anyone waiting for operations and/or village while they have lived here. three nights. Due to the horrendous treatments or suffering with viruses, flu weather the first night was postponed and colds. Our love and prayers go all in the Parish until the following night when the weather who are not well or grieving. was better. Thank you to Jean, Chris, We pray for the comfort of those who have Felicity Wyman and to Myrtle and family lost loved ones. PENNYMOOR CONGREGATIONAL who kindly provided the delicious CHURCH suppers. Also to everyone who gave so Congratulations to everyone celebrating First Sunday All ages Service generously – a wonderful total of £700 special occasions and birthdays in Second Sunday Communion Service was raised to support the work of ‘Open February and March. Doors’ and Mind. Third Sunday Join Way Village at 2.30pm Fourth Sunday Prayer and Praise The Christmas Fayre raised £257 for Thank you to all who helped decorate the Fifth Sunday Film Village Hall Funds. Thank you for all those Church and helped over the Christmas Coffee Morning every Wednesday 11- who helped and/or donated. Period. 12.30pm Watch Notice board and Facebook for The Village Party with a Bring & Share On 5 January a good number attended Special events, or contact Rev. Ruth on Supper was held on 11 January. Though our Cluster Service with Washfield and 01363 83451. small in number it was great fun and Calverleigh, led by Steph. enjoyed by all ages. Thank you to Ron and Margaret for organising it, Aubrey The offering from the Remembrance Day Goldsworthy for helping with the games LOXBEARE Service raised a total of £100 which has and to all who brought food and helped in been donated to ‘Help the Heros’. any way.

Happy New year to everyone and we A big thank you to all who gave donations The Village Christmas Meal was at Atrust you all had a blessed Christmas or filled shoe boxes for Blythewood Bickleigh Mill and was enjoyed by as we celebrated the birth of our Saviour where a total of 43 boxes were given. everyone, with good food & company. Jesus Christ. We joined Calverleigh for Thank you to Sue for organising the our Christingle Service this year instead The Annual Parish Church Meeting will evening. Future dates for Loxbeare Ladies of having one at Loxbeare. be held on 22 April. A PCC meeting will contact Sue on 01884 259496. be on the 4 Feb at Jean’s home at 7.30pm. It was good to see so many at the Carol 8 February and 14 March - Cream Teas in Service held on the 15 December. The On Mothering Sunday a full English the Village Hall between 3 to 5pm. Service was taken by Steph with Breakfast will be available from 9.30am 22 February - Raclette night is being members of the congregation reading the in the Village Hall, cooked and served by arranged in the Hall 7 for 7.30pm. Phone Christmas Story from the Bible. The the men. This will be followed by a Carol on 01884 881480. offering of £120 was given to Vranch Service commencing at approximately 28 March - Arthur’s Quiz Night in the Hall House. Presents were placed under the 10.30am. Do come and join us. Contact 7 for 7.30pm. tree and later distributed to Pinnex Moor Ron on 01884 881362. House and Ashdowne Nursing Home on Forward Notice: 6 April – Bingo in the Hall 23 December. 7 for 7.30pm.

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12 TODAY February / March 2020 PARISH ROUND-UP croissants. As usual, Spring flowers will Oakford Players present: OAKFORD be given to everyone attending. If you ‘For One Night Only’ a variety show on 17 wish, bring a photo of your Mum for a and 18 April. Watch out for more details blessing. on posters. elicious! That was the comment Dabout the mince pies and mulled Although the nights are drawing out, it’s wine echoed by many people who came Stuckeridge House Literary Festival still the season for sit-at-home-by-the-fire Weekend 20-22 March to St Peter’s to enjoy the Carol Service. evenings. So check out the library at the Thank you to all the organisers, the Choose from many interesting talks by back of the Church. It’s groaning with celebrated authors. Programme and church decorators, the readers and to new additions and we’ll soon need Steph for entertaining us with a peek into details from Caroline Llewellyn: another bookcase. If you are popping in [email protected] her bag of Christmas jumpers! It was and can spare a tin or two for the CHAT heartening to see so many children box, your donation would be greatly December and January have left many joining in and having fun. appreciated. people struck down by colds, coughs and tummy bugs. We send our good wishes Thank you to everyone who supported the Next Bell Tower Fundraiser: for a speedy recovery to anyone who has Christmas Tea on 14 December and to all 1 February – 2.30pm – Oakford Village the children who came and decorated the been unwell. Especially in our thoughts Hall. Afternoon Tea with local authors Liz and prayers is Richard Stevens. tree. Shakespeare and Chris Tull. Inspired by local history and personal experience As our country leaves the EU we pray for they will be entertaining us with a talk and a peaceful transition and a positive a tale or two. Adults £5 / children under mindset towards what lies ahead. 16 £2.50. Pay at the door but the tea ladies need to know if you are coming – contact Mary Shere 01398 351154 or February is snowdrop time. Enjoy the Brenda Burrows 01398 351 331. show as we look forward to Spring.

Village Hall Events: The Moorland Club: RACKENFORD 13 February – Fish & Chip Supper & Quiz – 6.45 for 7. £7.50 – contact Sue Vigus Amy helping Cerys to decorate the Tree e are already nearing the end of to book 01398 332035. WJanuary 2020. Best wishes to you all 12 March – Social Evening and for a happy and healthy new year. New Oakford Village looked very festive with presentation of cheques (money raised at lights hung from the houses up and down Year resolutions have been made, or not? the Christmas Fayre) to last year’s may have already been broken or not? the street complete with a star over the charities: UNITE and the Freewheeler lych gate. Thank you to Jennie and her Blood Bikes. 7.30pm. team for organising this and for the lovely Belated congratulations to Alistair and Advance Notice: 9 April – Easter Bonnet Christmas tree in the centre of the village. Cobi Baillie who were married on August parade! With prizes!! Start creating. Bank holiday 2019, only just received the All the timings of our services are listed in good news. Village Quiz Nights: the centrefold of the magazine. We’d be Another positive is we now have our delighted to welcome you to one of them 19 February and 18 March in The Red Lion Church heating working again, new tank and there’s always the opportunity to stay at 8 for 8.15. New teams welcome. and new boiler. All in time for our for a coffee and chat afterwards. 6 March – Taste Off 2020 – Prizes will be Christmas services and colder weather. awarded in the following classes: Sloe Our Service for Mothering Sunday is Gin, Fruit Vodka, Flavoured Tipple such We wish Rosemary and Jeremy Dart every particularly special. It falls on 22 March as Brandy, Rum or Whisky, Non-alcoholic happiness in their new surroundings, and will take place at 10.45am. Come Fruit Cordial. Details from Julia: half an hour early to be served coffee and [email protected] Painful Feet ? Viv Pulford Foot Health Practitioner Diploma in Foot Health and Bsc Adult Nursing Nail clipping and filing. Corn and Callus removal. Foot balancing … and more !! Treatment in your own home Phone 01884 861306 Unit 5, Oaklands Court, Tiverton, EX16 6TG www.homelifecarers.co.uk Mobile 07827779559 Regulated by the Care Quality Commission

13 TODAY February / March 2020 PARISH ROUND-UP having moved to Tiverton, from Higher The profit from Church Bingos this year Everyone from Rackenford and Meadow. Richard, Kate and baby raised £717.50. Many thanks to Herbert, neighbouring areas were invited to sing Brandon will be moving into Higher Marjorie and helpers for keeping this carols and to switch on the Christmas Meadow in the future. running and to everyone for their support. tree lights at The Stag on Christmas Eve and enjoy nibbles. The Stag was packed Since our last issue several amongst us Saturday 21 December saw a revival and with people, so the atmosphere was great. (which may be old news) have had visits newly refurbished Santa’s Sleigh and his The village was in fine voice. The children to hospital, been admitted, had reindeer travelling through the village, who were present sang the first verse of operations or just not feeling well. We lead by a Brass Sextet and Carol Singers. a few of the carols before the adults understand some are making good Helpers knocked on various doors to alert joined in and that felt really special. progress which is such a blessing. people of Santa’s (Saupe’s) arrival. Graham Fennel was great on the Many thanks to Sharon and Dennis for all keyboards and Ruth made sure everyone We send our love and prayers to those we their hard work. Graham and Ruth Fennel had carol sheets so they could join in the have heard about (at time of going to welcomed them into their home for evening to start the Christmas print) Sylvia Muchmore, Pearl Stone, Vera refreshments and wine, they were also celebrations. Many thanks to Oliver and Sutton, Jane Matthews, Bruce West. invited into The Old Forge for a glass of Steve for their hospitality. “Warmth “. So much appreciated on such In our last issue we mentioned Vera a rough night. Your generosity raised We hope our village will continue to thrive Sutton’s daughter Heather. Sadly £255 for Air Ambulance . and grow in strength as we help and Heather has now passed away after a support each other through another year. brave fight. We send our deepest Our decorations, beautiful Christmas tree sympathy to Vera and Heather’s husband and bells ringing, welcomed our and son who live in Leamington Spa. congregation on Sunday 22 December STOODLEIGH for our Carol Service. Sadly Michael Oxenham passed away on ork on the tower was completed in 26 November. For many years Micheal, Many thanks to Marjorie for gathering the the middle of November and the Jean and daughter Sally lived at Heiffers children together to sing to us and also W scaffolding removed. The bell ringers Farm before Michael and Jean eventually for our choir who we always enjoy were back in action in Stoodleigh on 19 moved to Witheridge. Micheal’s Funeral listening to. A carol sung so beautifully. December; they are most grateful to and internment was held at our Church on Thank you also to Eleanor who played a Washfield and Calverleigh who enabled 11 December, where a full Church few lines of various carols sitting next to them to continue their Thursday evening gathered to pay respects. Our deepest Marjorie at the organ, you play so well. practices during Stoodleigh tower’s sympathy to Jean, Sally and Andrew and closure. family at this difficult time. A big thank you to the Village Shop for providing us with the Posting Box, to The Churchyard had its annual Autumn Many thanks once again to Liz and Tim receive and deliver Christmas cards clean-up. Many thanks to all who turned Paxton for providing and decorating the around the village without any cost.!!!! up to help, particularly Richard Hill whose Christmas tree for Church ready for the What a wonderful service, so much trailer was well and truly filled with all the school nativity, held on 11 December. The appreciated. debris. Church was bursting with parents, family and friends, some having to stand, sit on Our Rackenford Community Recipe Book the floor, not comfy or a good view but we is still available to purchase from The The Christmas Fayre at the beginning of hope all enjoyed seeing the children Shop or from PCC Members. It is a real December was a great success with over doing so well. Four previous students treat to read, new recipes to try, hints and £830 being raised to help pay for the from Rackenford have been selected by tips with contributions from our school repairs to the tower. The Parish Hall Tiverton High School to travel to the sister children. An ideal gift for family and buzzed with many eager buyers and School in Kenya to volunteer their time friends maybe. children were greeted on their arrival by and talents. Father Christmas.

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After

contact Lloyd Adams on Quayside House 5 Highland Terrace Barrington Street Tiverton Devon EX16 6PT

14 TODAY February / March 2020 PARISH ROUND-UP The generous donations to the raffle were Church Flower Rota breakfast in the Parish Hall before enormously appreciated by all and it was 2 / 9 Feb Trish Fish heading off along local paths, lanes and lovely to have some new stalls, as well as 16 / 23 Feb Pat Aplin woods. Two walks will be on offer, a those with goods made in Stoodleigh. 1 Mar / 5 April Lent - no flowers longer route for walkers and a shorter Mulled wine, mince pies and sausage 12 April Easter - all help please option for those who prefer a stroll. We rolls added to the convivial atmosphere. will all meet back at the Parish Hall where Skittles Evening.The Annual Skittles non-walkers will be welcome to join in for The Carol Service on Saturday 21 Evening and Ploughman’s Supper is to be a delicious lunch and a community catch December was very special with the held on Friday 28 February starting at up. Full details will be available soon but Church full and a choir of some eighteen 7pm in the Parish Hall. Entrance £5 if you’re interested, please ring Geraldine singers. The Rector was on fine form includes the supper. Please phone either on 01398 351391. involving the whole congregation with her Pat Robinson 01398 351460 or Margaret Christmas story. The choir singing Cuningham 01398 351252 to book your 11 April – Easter Market & Coffee Morning "alleluia" every time angels were ticket and supper. 11 July – Family Fun Dog Show (jointly mentioned and the congregation being organised with St Margaret’s Church) babies, animals, stars (twinkle twinkle) or Parish Hall News 31 October – Autumn Market & Coffee when Bethlehem was mentioned singing 19 November: AGM – Reports were Morning tunefully the first line of "O Little Town". provided on the previous year’s activities For more information about the above The lights on the Christmas tree (kindly and finances and discussions took place events, please ring Geraldine on 01398 donated by John Widdowson) and the about future events and planned work on 351391 candles on the window sills set off the the Parish Hall. Thank you to those who magnificent flower arrangements - for attended the meeting. Twelve members, Don’t forget the weekly classes and which we thank our wonderful band of including three new volunteers, were Saturday Coffee at the Parish Hall – for flower arrangers. The stable by the pulpit elected to the Hall Management dates see the Stoodleigh Parish website was filled with a nativity scene which has Committee. The Committee elected Linda calendar been donated to the Church. Altogether, Brice (Chair), Dick Sibley (Vice-chair), https://parish.middevon.gov.uk/stoodleig a joyful occasion. Janet Russell (Treasurer) and Geraldine h/events-calendar/ Talbot (Secretary). Please note – for Hall The Christmas Eucharist on 24 hire arrangements, email Stoodleigh Cricket Club will be holding December was a much quieter occasion [email protected] or ring 01398 another of their great quiz nights at The with a select band of worshippers 351401. Stoodleigh Inn on Friday 3 April to raise welcoming the birth of Jesus. Between 16 December - Thanks to our local money for the club 7.pm start time. A these two Services, a hardy band of businesses who donated some fabulous raffle will be held. Come and support this about nine choristers went carol singing prizes for the Village Christmas Draw and local club. A fun evening round the village and further afield raising thank you also to the community who guaranteed! £140 for the market bus; our thanks to supported us. There were many winners the singers and to those who welcomed from across the village when the Draw And finally, it is sad to record the death of them into their homes to warm up! took place on the Bingo Night in the Beth Byles on 25 November. She was a Parish Hall. There was much fun and well-respected Stoodleigh resident and 2020 sees our usual selection of events, laughter and you helped us to raise over had lived in the village for over sixty years. starting with The Annual Parochial £980 to help maintain and improve the Beth was a trained physiotherapist and Church Council Meeting at 7.00pm on Parish Hall. later in life she was awarded an Open Monday 16 March at The Old Stable. University degree in English. She was, All parishioners are welcome. There will Dates for your diary: for many years, a Parish Councillor and be a Coffee Morning at the Old Stable on 7 March – The Village Breakfast, Walk served as Chairman for four years. She Wednesday 13 May. All other events are and Lunch, a popular event organised to had strong interests in local affairs and published on the Stoodleigh page of the enjoy Stoodleigh and the surrounding protecting the environment. Exe Valley Churches’ website. countryside with good walking company combined with tasty food. We’ll start with

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15 TODAY February / March 2020 PARISH ROUND-UP

Beth loved nature and was a member of were held at Templeton Village Hall. Church building and the graveyard over the Rambling Roses walking group. She Table tennis, darts, pool and skittles were the year in making sure that the Church was also a very knowledgeable member played over the weeks with real talent is maintained. It is so important to hear of the Poetry Group. She had a unique showing! Many thanks to Mark who your thoughts about the Church and its personality and will be sadly missed by organised the competitions and to all community. If you would be willing to join her neighbours and friends. those who took part and supported the the PCC for a year, please contact events. William (251513) or Reg (860246) who would really appreciate your help. Congratulations go to: TEMPLETON Mixed Pool: Winner: Reg Coffin A Dog Show at Templeton Village Hall is Runner Up: Mike Pancherz planned for some time in early June. The Men’s Darts: Winner: Martin Saunders definite date is yet to be confirmed. ast activities Runner Up: Tony Loosemore The Annual Village Fete will be held on P Saturday 7 August. During December, the Cluster Service, Men’s Skittles: Winner: Martin Duck Race – the date is yet to be Candlelit Carol Service and Group Service Runner Up: Reg Coffin Saunders confirmed but this will probably be in took place at St Margaret’s Church in Mixed Table Tennis: Winner: David September. Templeton. These services were very well Runner Up: Reg Coffin Leeming attended. The Candlelit Carol Service As well as the twice monthly Church Future events in Templeton this year was, as always, a magical and hugely Sunday Services, the monthly Knit and include: popular service, as well as being an Natter mornings are held on the last The Templeton Trail organised by the opportunity for neighbours in Templeton Wednesday of every month between Exe Valley Rotary Club on Sunday 5 April. to join together as a community. A big 10.30am and 12 midday – bring any This involves a marshalled route where thank you to everyone who contributed knitting, sewing, or any repair work with the runners or walkers start at Templeton with readings, and to Helen for singing you if you have some, or otherwise just Village Hall and go through Town Farm, such a beautiful solo. come along for a coffee and a chat. Partridge Farm and Cruwys Woods - a On 5 December, Templeton Village Hall beautiful route - and end back at In our thoughts held a Christmas-themed Quiz Night with Templeton Village Hall to enjoy a range of Welcome back to Monica – its lovely to supper and a raffle. This was a highly refreshments. know that you are back at home in entertaining evening with great food, If you are interested in taking part, details Templeton. great company and a lot of laughs! are available on Exe Valley Website Congratulations to the winning team, who at www.exevalleyrotary.org.uk. Entry Our thoughts and good wishes are with aptly went by the name of ‘Fake News’! forms are not yet available but all other all those who are unwell, or who have Many thanks to Bruce and Chris for information is there under the Templeton been in hospital, or who are having a organising the event with such a wide trail heading. difficult time, and hope that you will soon range of questions, and for leading such be feeling better. a marvellous evening. Templeton’s Annual Parochial Church Meeting will be held on Monday 20 April Church Flowers and Cleaning Rota for On Saturday 14 December, Tony at St Margaret’s Church at 7pm. Please February and March Loosemore once again organised the do come along - this will be a chance for Bindy Linden Flowers and Cleaning 2 / Annual Children’s Christmas Party at you to come and make any suggestions 9 Feb Templeton Village Hall. Many thanks to about what changes you would like to see Eleri Pugh Flowers and Cleaning 16 / 23 Tony and Sara who made it all such fun in your Church community, and maybe Feb for the children and parents, to Steve and you have suggestions about the ways that Gloria Woollacott Lent no flowers 1 / 8 Mar his bubble and foam disco party, and of St Margaret’s Church can be used more Claire Trevelyan-Thomas Cleaning only course to Father Christmas! for all sorts of events apart from the 15 / 22 Mar regular Sunday Services. This will also be Sue Coffin Cleaning only 29 Mar / 5 Between 7 and 21 December, the an opportunity to find out all that has been April Christmas tournaments and bar games happening with the ongoing work on the

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round the Village to the appeal for Nevertheless the amazing sum of £115 WASHFIELD repairing the stained glass window bars, was raised towards the Church window which are rusting and damaging the bars repairs. Well done to all who braved February is the border between a stonework. The appeal is on-going and the elements. harsh winter and milder Spring, the repairs are planned soon. When sunshine steeps the boughs Dates for your Diary Grateful thanks to all who helped in any Sat 1 Feb Film Show at Social Club. and tints the buds and swells the way at the Coffee Morning on 7 December. “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, leaves within. We had a happy time and also raised the Missouri” (15) at 7.30pm. Very Happy New Year to you all! amazing amount of £240 for running Tues 11 Feb teatime@thehall 2.30pm in A costs of the Church. the hall. Come along to this friendly, It was good to see the Church filled to welcoming, informal group for tea, cake overflowing on Christmas Eve for the We look forward to the new bell ropes and chat. traditional Carol Service and our thanks being dedicated by Steph at the Group Thurs 13 Feb W.I. in hall 10.30 start. go to all who helped in any way. It was Service on 23 Feb when we will be able Speaker: Laurie Cowie on Cyber crime especially good to have so many young to express our thanks to those who and computer safety tips. readers taking part in telling the contributed to the cost, fitted them and Sat 15 Feb Quiz night at Social Club. Christmas story and we were very grateful who ring the bells so faithfully. Time tba to Janet Roche for playing for us - a great Thurs 20 Feb Lunch Club restarts for kindness and much appreciated. We all miss Allison in the Church and 2020. Newcomers welcome to join in Village and send her our very best wishes with these monthly lunches 12 for 12.30. for a restful recovery. Our heartfelt good The Tobey family was much in our minds Just £6 for a welcome drink plus a two wishes go to all those amongst us who over Christmas. We send our sympathy course meal, hot drink and mints to finish. are not feeling well, are receiving or and prayers at this sad time of family Please phone Anne 255298 to book in awaiting treatments and recovering from bereavement. Their family was very much for this first one of the year. operations. May you soon turn the corner missed. into better health. Sat 7 Mar Six Nations Rugby at the Social Christmas Day at Calverleigh was a great To those celebrating special birthdays or Club from 4.30pm. time of celebration when we met together anniversaries we wish you many good Mon 9 Mar Hall AGM in hall from 8pm. for Holy Communion on this special day. wishes. All welcome to attend and potential committee members always welcomed. Drinks and nibbles. All the Church activities are starting again As reported in the last issue, the Social so please look at Steph's page for details. Club has upgraded its licence to show Tues 10 Mar teatime@thehall from We hope to see you at the APCM on 9 films. The first of these has now been 2.30pm. Come along and join in. March. Come and hear about what we did screened to an appreciative audience. Thurs 12 Mar W.I. in hall 7.30pm. in 2019 and hear our plans for this year Look out for those to follow - See Dates Speaker: Dr Hannah Wright on Prison from Steph - and give us your ideas of for your Diary below. Volunteers are Horticulture and Agriculture. how the Church can contribute to the needed to choose the films they would Sat 14 Mar Skittles Evening at Social Community. Refreshments at 6.30 pm for love to see. Club (with EVBH) Time tba Meeting at 7 pm in the Hall.. Thurs 19 Mar Lunch Club in hall 12 for Remember: Social Club subs, if you 12.30 Easter Saturday – 11 April. The Coffee and haven't already paid, these are now due Sat 21 Mar Film Show at Social Club. Hot Cross Buns following Egg Rolling etc. and are just £5. Sat 4 Apr Film night at Social Club (Film will be accompanied by the Plant and tba) Produce stall, so please start sowing Carol Singing took place around the seeds and taking cuttings now! Village on 17 December. It was a very KEEP THE DATE foggy evening and this meant less people Sat 22 Aug Social Club’s Big 30th The PCC is very grateful to the WI for turned up, plus the weather hampered the Anniversary Party donating the proceeds of Carol Singing singers' way around the Village.

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Church Altar Flowers Rota In addition to the cluster Communion Hall on Saturday 4 April at 7.30pm. February 2 Mrs Harding Service at Cruwys Morchard on There's no need to book, just come along February 9 Mrs French Christmas Eve, a non-Communion on the evening. February 16/23 Mrs Pannifer Service was held at St Catherine’s at our March 1-29 LENT usual time of 11.30pm to ‘Welcome in A date for your diary; our next Christmas’. The attendance at the Community Lunch will be held on Church Cleaning Rota Service, led by our own Church members, Thursday 23 April in the Village Hall, Jan 27/Feb 3 Mrs French was very encouraging. 12.30 for 1pm. Feb 10/17 Mrs Harding/Mrs Jones Feb 24/Mar 2 Mrs Albery Our Late Christmas Meal on Saturday 11 A reminder that, as from February, the January, in the Village Hall, was a Mar 9/16 Mr & Mrs Ellis normal time of our morning Services has resounding success, with the fifty-seven changed from 10.30am to 10.45am. Mar 23/30 Mrs French present being treated to a superb three- Having said that, our Family Service on April 6/13 Mrs Harding/Mrs Jones course feast. Our grateful thanks go to 2 February will be at 3pm, when Martha, Brenda and Sara who were responsible daughter of Henry and Hannah will be for the majority of the catering, and to all baptized into the Church family. who were involved in the setting out, WITHLEIGH preparation, serving, washing-up, raffle, Withleigh WI meets on the 2nd etc. As well as being a great social Thursday of each month at 7.15pm. New ur Craft Fayre on 23 November was occasion, and not intended to be profit members are always welcome to come Oa great success. Our thanks to the making, over £500 was raised for Village along. For more information please ring stall-holders, and to all who came along Hall funds. Rosie 01884 257123. to support the event, which raised £1,191. Thursday 13 February, speaker Rose Withleigh Quiz Night, is on 31 Friday Chanin, 'My Nonsense' A big “Thank You” to all who decorated January, 7.30pm in the Hall. (No mobiles Thursday 12 March, speaker Stephen the Church so beautifully for our phones please!) Teams of up to 6 people. Powles, 'In pursuit of the Improbable' Christmas Services. The Services were Entry will cost £6 each which includes a well attended, beginning with our pasty and a hot or cold soft drink during Congratulations to any who are Christingle on the afternoon of Sunday 8 the interval. You are welcome to bring celebrating special birthdays or December, led by Steph. Thank you, also, your own drinks. For more information or anniversaries. to Janet, David and Christine for making to book a table please call Sara 01884 the Christingles. 252949 or Brenda 01884 252431. Get well wishes go to all those known to us who are receiving treatment, Our Carol Service on the evening of Our Annual Church Meeting will be held recovering from operations or who are Sunday 22 December proved as popular in the Village Hall on Thursday 26 March, not well at the moment. as ever. Our thanks, again, to those who beginning at 7pm. All are welcome to provided and served the mulled wine, attend, to hear what has been going on Forthcoming Events; coffee, mince pies and shortbread, which during the past year, and to elect Friday 31 Jan Withleigh Quiz Night at followed the service. During the Service, churchwardens and PCC for the coming 7.30pm in the VillageHall. gifts of non-perishable food, toiletries and year. Thursday 13 Feb WI in the Village Hall at cleaning items were left under the tree for 7.15pm. CHAT. Thank you, Brenda, for delivering If you want to start collecting some early Thursday 12 Mar WI in the Village Hall at all the donations to CHAT the following Easter Eggs, then come along to our 7.15pm.Sunday day. Annual Easter Beetle Drive, where there 22 Mar Mothering Sunday Service in will be plenty of eggs to win. We are in the Church at 10.45am. Read the TODAY magazine, in colour, on-line at exevalleychurches.org/magazine/index.php

“The new Rector is really cool, Dad. She told us that God emailed the Ten Commandments to Moses’s iPad “Who knew that ??”

18 TODAY February / March 2020

PARISH ROUND-UP Flower Rota: 2 February Brenda Tucker Thoughts for Everyday Thoughts for Everyday 9 / 16 /23 Feb Sara Kittow by Patience Strong ~ by Patience Strong ~ 1 Mar LENT (Please remove flowers) for 19 February for 11 March

Weekly Events; Tuesdays Yoga in the Village Hall at 7pm. Sometimes it’s too late to say Just a little sympathy Wednesdays Short Mat Bowls in the the things you meant to say. can go a long, long way - Village Hall at 7.30pm. Too late to say you’re sorry to help a breaking heart to face or some kindness to repay. a world that’s hard and grey. Monthly Diary Dates: Second Monday Whist Drive Too late to speak the loving word A little snatch of melody Second Thursday W.I. or lend the helping hand - can fill the world with song - To show appreciation and put some music into life, 3 MUSINGS or to give the gift you’d planned. when things are going wrong. Speak well of your enemies - Thus we pile up vain regrets Just a little friendliness, after all, made them ! that haunt the years ahead; a little bit of praise - Adam blamed Eve - Memories of all the things can urge a tired, discouraged soul, and Eve blamed the Serpent - we might have done or said. to live the dreary day. and it didn’t have a leg to stand on ! So save yourself that pain A golden streak of sunshine “We don’t like their sound and guitar and take each opportunity - in a sky that looks like rain - music is on the way out” quoted by of doing all that’s in your power can make a weary traveller Decca Recording Company when for friends and family. look up and smile again. rejecting The Beatles in 1962

Exe valley market and community bus Do you ever wish you could go shopping in A teacher was testing children in her Sunday School Tiverton, without having Class, to see if they understood the concept of getting to to drive there or worry about parking ? Heaven. She asked them “If I sold my house and my car, had a big car boot sale and gave all my money to the The Exe Valley Market Bus travels from Oakford to Tiverton Church, would that get me into heaven?” each Tuesday and Friday mornings and “NO !” The children answered. we often have spare seats ~ particularly on Tuesdays. “If I cleaned the Church every day, mowed the Churchyard We need your support to keep the service going and kept everything neat and tidy, would that get me into and it’s FREE if you have a Bus Pass Heaven?” Again the answer was “NO !”

See the Timetable at all the regular Now she was smiling. They’re getting it, she thought. pick-up points and also on-line “Well then, if I was kind to animals and gave candy to all http://exevalleymarketbus.btck.co.uk the children, and loved my husband, would that get me into Heaven?” She asked. Again, the answer was “NO!” Volunteer Drivers always needed By now she was bursting with pride for them. Please contact “Well then” she continued “ how can I get into Heaven?” Colin on 01884 881351 or Ann on 01884 254501 A five-year old boy shouted “YOU HAVE TO BE DEAD !!!” ernside DEVON & SOMERSET MARQUEES LIMITED For that Special Occasion Bed and Bed & Breakfast 30 years in the Marquee business Breakfast 2019 Gold Award Telephone 01398 351210 Award winning AA 5-Star Gold B & B E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.dsmarquees.co.uk Warm Welcome. En-suite rooms.

Fernside Cottage, Templeton Bridge, Tiverton, Devonshire, EX16 8BP Email : [email protected] Website : www.fernsidecottage-bed-and- breakfast.co.uk Telephone : 01884 860025

19 TODAY February / March 2020 STAG INN Rackenford, EX16 8DT Accounts Preparation, Sole Traders, Partnerships & Limited Companies and Tax Specialists

Please contact David Wicks, Phil Morrish or Michelle Hutchings on 01884257725 Email: [email protected] Website: www.apsleys.com

Opening hours:

Wednesday to Saturday Lunch 12.30pm to 2.30pm Dinner 6.30pm to 9pm Sunday Lunch 12.30pm to 3pm 01884 881755 www.thestagdevon.co.uk To place an advertisement, please contact Dawn Williams CLASSIFIED 01398 324035 ADVERTISEMENTS (see inside front cover)

Men in Sheds, Lunch Clubs, Arts and Crafts, EST 30 YEARS BUILDING REQUIREMENTS Tai Chi, Reminder Finders, Day Care, DC BRITTON CONSTRUCTION LTD Foot Care and many more ! Family Run Independent Roofing & Leadwork would be pleased to quote for your Plus - Information and Advice at your fingertips Specialists Covering Devon for 30 Years building works, incorporating new builds, conversions, extensions, Call us now for more details ! alterations and refurbishments. For a personal reliable service, call Dave Charity No: 1070792 on 01884 881643 or 07974412097.

FITNESS FORMULA Personal Training and Fitness Small Groups, 1 to 1, Boxing,

Circuits, Pilates Re-roofing • New Builds Jennifer Bricknell Residential • Domestic • Commercial Tel: 07980008726 Public sector • Heritage & Listed • Leadwork • Conservation [email protected] Phone : 01884 252768 / 07856250874 www.jenniferbricknell.co.uk Email: [email protected] Web: www.ssroofingspecialist.co.uk Fax:01884 255167

Alterations, Repairs, Men’s Formal Wear Hire, Bespoke and Stock Fascinators and more … St Thomas House, Ash Thomas, EX16 4NT 07974039860 [email protected] Opening hours by appointment only

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