About Broughton & Croxton June to August 2016 The Parish Magazine of Broughton and Croxton

Happy birthday

Your Majesty1

The Parish Magazine of Broughton and Croxton Editor: Sara Humphries, 12 Martin Dale, Loggerheads, TF9 4DH Tel: 01630 673740 [email protected] Rector: To be appointed Methodist Minister: Rev John Day, The Old Police House, Croxton Tel: 01630 620671 [email protected] Patrons of the Benefice: The Bishop of Lichfield The Vicar of Eccleshall Mr T. A. J. Hall Parish Links for Contributions: Croxton Church – Mrs Beryl Roe (01630 620248) Broughton Church – Mrs Jean Beasley (01785 850306) Croxton Chapel – Mrs Kath Bridgwood (01630 620601)

Your Magazine – Your Community A colour issue of the magazine is now available on the Broughton Church website at www.broughtonchurch.com.

Dear Readers

I often find I am thanking various people in the local community for helping to produce the ABC magazine, which is a real community venture but still centred around the churches and church activities—it is after all only through the grace of God that any of us are here and are so privileged to live in such a beautiful, safe and vital neighbourhood. My thanks in this issue go to Mrs Beryl Roe and the team of people, those unsung heroes, who distribute the magazine. Mrs Roe, through her inestimable powers of persuasion has recruited another four distributors, so the team now numbers 30 people, who give up their own time to ensure you have your copy of ABC on time.

On behalf of the ABC Committee, I thank you one and all. Sara Humphries [Editor]

The deadline for the next issue of ABC is 7th August 2016

(Please continue to support this Magazine by giving your DONATIONS to any committee member – names and telephone numbers above or to the person who delivers your copy.

Disclaimer: The publishers of this magazine, accept no responsibility for the quality of the service provided by the advertisers and nor for the opinions expressed by contributors.

Payments for Advertisements: Please make Cheques payable to ‘ABC Magazine’

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Old Police House Croxton June 2016 Dear Friends

I can’t write a pastoral letter without placing on record our congratulations to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on attaining her 90th Birthday, and our grateful thanks for her unstinting work over so many years. There will always be someone who will criticise but then that has more to do with their nature than the truth of what is happening. This is why our attitude is the most important decision we make each day. It either keeps us moving ahead or cripples our progress in life. Yet we spend more time over things we can’t change than we do giving attention to the one thing we can change—our attitude.

Gratitude is an attitude, and King David of the Old Testament said “I will bless the Lord at all times”. It wasn’t an impulse, but an attitude of praise. Love is also an attitude, love says “I accept you as you are, care when you hurt, desire only what is best for you and forget all offences”. Trust is also an attitude. The Psalmist said “The Lord’s unfailing love surrounds those who trust Him”.

I have come to realise that those who don’t recognise your needs and respect your aims will divert you, and keep you down. The answer is to have a positive attitude and give it what you can. God will never let you down since His attitude is always loving mercy. Our grateful thanks must go to all those who arranged the Community Celebrations on Sunday 29th May for the Queen’s 90th Birthday tea at Broughton Parish Room, entertainment by local musicians, and the opening of three lovely gardens; well done.

May I also mention that our services in all three churches could be better supported, and to which everyone would receive a very warm welcome. The service schedule is on the back page. See you soon.

With best wishes Yours in His service Rev’d John Day

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STOP PRESS … STOP PRESS … STOP PRESS … We are pleased to announce that in addition to the two gardens mentioned, you will have the opportunity to view the garden of Mrs. L. Griffiths at The Old Vicarage, Broughton from 1.00 - 3.30pm. This garden is on the B5026 (in the direction of Loggerheads) just a short walk along from the Parish Room on the same side of the road. The entrance is framed by large wrought iron gates.

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RETIREMENTS This issue we wish long and happy retirements to two well known and well loved local characters; Revd Preb. Jonathan Eades and local postie Tony Caton.

On Saturday 9th April, over a hundred and fifty friends gathered at Oakley Hall, to bid a fond farewell to our friend Rev. Jonathan Eades as he reaches his retirement. A warm welcome was extended by Jill Cheadle to all present and we all joined in with the singing of 'I, the Lord of sea and sky'. The joint choirs of Ashley, Broughton, Croxton and Mucklestone then sang an anthem, ably led by Peter Shone. Fr. Roger Legg read from Paul's letter to Philemon which was followed by short tributes to Jonathan by Colin Garnett and Rev. Doug Heming. Another hymn - 'Be still for the presence of the Lord, The Holy One is here' - was prayerfully sung by all assembled. Roger Pooley and Anna Mortimer then offered prayers and afterwards Rev John Day presented Jonathan with an iPad which he had requested for his leaving present. Jonathan thanked all his friends who had come to wish him well for the future and said that he would be remembering each one of us. He expressed sincere thanks for kindness shown to him over the past eight years. Finally, we all sang The Irish Blessing to Jonathan before partaking of the wonderful refreshments provided by members of the churches. John and Stella Day

Flat 16 Dulverton Hall Esplanade, Scarborough North Yorkshire, YO11 2AR Tel. 01723-340116 email: [email protected] Dear One and All

A very big 'thank you' for such a wonderful 'send off'. The final services were very moving. The pilgrimage around the churches was just right. The 'do' at Oakley almost moved me to tears! Above all thank you for your wonderful gifts (you are so generous!) and for all your encouragement and support over the past eight years.

You will remain in my prayers! With my love, Jonathan

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Dear Friends

I would like to express my sincere thanks to all those kind people of the Woodland Quarter and the surrounding districts for my retirement cards and gifts on my retirement from Royal Mail (1972- 2016); a job in the community which I have enjoyed so much. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank my colleagues at Royal Mail Stafford for their gifts and good wishes. Once again many, many thanks. Tony Caton

Benefice Young People’s Website

A new website has been created for the Benefice to keep everyone up- to-date on what’s happening with the Young People’s Work – www.ourbenefice.church.

On the site, you will find information about all the Young People’s groups within the Benefice, a calendar of events and a blog containing articles about recent and upcoming events and church-related school activities. The blog has recently been updated to include articles about our Connections Easter Celebration, Easter services at Ashley for Hugo Meynell pupils and the St Mary’s School Eucharist.

Please take a moment to have a look at the site. If you have any suggestions, would like more information or would even like to have a go at volunteering in any area of the Young People’s Work, please contact me at [email protected] or 07512 857 942.

Amanda Montandon Young People’s Admin Worker

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Croxton Parish - St Paul’s Church Warden: Mrs Beryl Roe, Rowley House Farm, Croxton, 01630 620248 Songs of Praise—First Sunday in the month Themes: June—Birthdays July—Flowers August—Islands Join us for tea or coffee and share your contribution. A warm welcome to everyone.

SUNDAY MAY 29TH—Celebration for the Queen’s 90th Birthday—see notice on page 4

SATURDAY JUNE 11TH—CROXTON VILLAGE YARD SALE—10 AM to 1 PM Do you have too much stuff? Can’t be bothered to go to a Car Boot Sale? Sort out your excess bits and pieces, put them on a table or blanket on the Highfields Green and wait for the customers. Stalls may be booked in St Paul’s Church for £5.00, where light refreshments will be available, also access to toilets. Please register via Viv Watkins beforehand. Donations to St Paul’s Church will be appreciated. Viv can be contacted on 01630 620694 or [email protected]

SATURDAY JUNE 18TH—BROUGHTON COMMUNITY CHOIR CONCERT “SCHOOLDAY ESCAPADES” in St Paul’s Church –7.00 pm

TUESDAY JULY 12TH—STRAWBERRY TEA, 2.30—4.00 PM in St Paul’s Church. Raffle and Bring & Buy

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Dear Lord: so far today I am doing all right, I have Broughton not lost my temper, been Parish Room greedy, grumpy, nasty or selfish. I have not whined, Available bitched or eaten any for Hire chocolate …. However, I am going to get out of bed Meetings, in a minute and will need a lot more Parties etc. help! Booking Secretary Amen Mrs C Palmer 01630 620314

Cotes Heath & Standon Building Services Baby and Toddler Group

Brick Garages Come and join us for a friendly chat and a coffee [or two]. Juice and Chimney re-builds Toast for the toddlers Pointing We meet on a Wednesday Extensions 9.30 am till 3.00 pm at Cotes Heath and Standon Roof re-tiling Village Hall Brickwork Lots of ride on toys and Roof Repairs play house

For more information please Geoff Shanahan, LCGI contact Jan Barker 01630 620321 Tel: 01782 791196

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Croxton Independent Methodist Church Secretary: Mr John Day—01630 620671 Times of services 11 am.

United Prayer Meetings

Services held on a Wednesday and commence at 4 pm.

 June 8th at St Paul’s Croxton  July 13th at Croxton Independent Methodist Church  August 10th at St Peter’s Broughton

CROXTON & BROUGHTON GARDEN GUILD Meetings are held in Broughton Parish Room at 8 pm on the fourth Wednesday of the month.

 18/19 June Eccleshall Open Gardens  22 June Harry Delaney ‘Propagation’ Annual Rose Show  25 June Eccleshall Street Market  27 July Visit to Goldstone Hall Gardens  13 August [Saturday] Annual Show

New members are most welcome, as are visitors [charge £2.00]. For details contact Programme Secretary Mrs JUDY THOMPSTONE 01630 620225.

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INTERREGNUM & CHUCHYARD REGULATIONS

Whilst the benefice is in interregnum, we would like to remind you that St Peter’s Broughton and St Paul’s Croxton are still open for regular worship—see page 44 for details. We are also able to arrange for baptisms, weddings and funerals to be held at the churches—please speak to the Church Wardens. However, we would like to take this opportunity to remind you that the diocesan churchyard regulations still apply regarding what type of memorial stone you may erect. There is a very useful guidance booklet available on the Lichfield website: www.lichfield.anglican.org/ourmission/funerals, entitled Hallowed Ground. Permission needs to be obtained from the Church Wardens before any headstone can be erected.

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Broughton Parish: St Peter’s Church www.broughtonchurch.com Wardens: Mr James Butter, Rudge Manor, Ashley. 01630 620479 Mrs Louise Butter—as above PCC Secretary: Mrs Judith Thompstone, Bromley Hall, Wetwood. 01630 620225

Times of Services: 1st Sunday: 11 am Matins 2nd Sunday: 10 am Holy Communion 3rd Sunday: 11 am Matins 4th Sunday: 11 am Holy Communion 5th Sunday: As announced*

*SUNDAY 29 MAY—6.30 PM EVENSONG Please do join us for our very special and poignant Evensong service commemorating and remembering our family, friends and loved ones who are buried in the churchyard.

FROM THE REGISTERS: Baptisms—15 May 2016: Chloe Susan Jones Burials—9 April 2016: Mrs Helen Ruth Erzincanoglu [née Butter]

PCC AGM The PCC AGM was held on Thursday 28th April at The Rudge Manor Farmhouse. As an Ordinand Mrs Sara Humphries had to resign as Church Warden. Following a unanimous vote, Mrs Louise Butter was duly elected Church Warden. All the other officers were retuned en- bloc: Mr James Butter, Chair of the PCC and Church Warden; Mrs Judy Thompstone, PCC Secretary; Mrs Sally-Ann Shotton, Treasurer; Mr Richard Thompstone, Deanery Synod Representative; Mr Henry Butter, Electoral Roll Officer.

The Committee discussed several important issues, amongst which was a proposal from St Paul’s Croxton, that whilst we are in interregnum, we hold joint services with them and Croxton Chapel. The Committee could see merit in the proposal but thought it would send out the wrong message for any of the churches to close their doors on a regular basis, thus declining the proposition.

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ORBITUARY HELEN RUTH ERZINCANOGLU NÉE BUTTER Helen passed away at home peacefully on Tuesday, March 29, 2016, aged 54 years, having lived inspirationally with cancer for two and a half years. She is deeply missed by all who she touched, in particular her Husband Salih, Children Holly and Can, Grandchildren Helena, Rupert and Hazel; Daughter of Henry and Ruth and Sister of Rosalyn, Paul, Sara, Sally-Ann and James. A remarkable lady, compassionate, intelligent and oh so capable. Helen will be remembered not only as a consummate professional in her working life as Nurse Manager at Market Drayton Medical Practice, but also for her impish sense of humour and joie de vivre; never afraid to get up on stage to belt out a song or two. The funeral was held at St Peter’s Broughton on Saturday April 9, 2016 and was well attended by Helen’s family and many friends, with the collection divided between Cancer Research UK, the Severn Hospice and St Peters. Rest in peace Helen. Taken from us too soon.

May he support us all the day long till the shades lengthen and the evening comes and the busy world is hushed and the fever of life is over and our work is done. Then in his mercy may he give us a safe lodging and a holy rest and peace at the last. John Newman (1801-1890)

ROGATION SUNDAY 1ST MAY 2016 This year we were joined by The Archdeacon of Stoke, The Venerable Matthew Parker, as we beat the bounds of our parishes of Broughton and Croxton. Despite the unseasonably cool and damp weather we had a good turn out, as we celebrated the bounty of living in the Woodland Quarter.

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BENEFICE BREAKFAST REPORT A hearty breakfast at orphanage for 70 children. Hungersheath Tearooms was the Obviously striking a chord with order of the day for 38 church many, an impromptu collection members and friends on a chilly raised about £415 for the charity. Saturday morning in March. This was the last of the winter’s three We are grateful to all our speakers, Benefice Breakfasts. who give their services for nothing, and delighted to see so The breakfasts are followed by a many people attending the short talk and, as in previous Breakfasts. We look forward to years, we were fortunate to have 3 welcoming you next winter. excellent speakers. In November Marianne Grime gave a practical Once again thanks go to Graham demonstration of Folding Books, Sedgley for helping with the which we could all try. Bob organization. Bostelmann, a retired veterinary The planned dates for 2016/17 are: surgeon gave a talk which included his experiences of Saturday, 12th February 2016 working in the Falkland Islands. Saturday, 4th February 2017 Saturday, 25th March 2017 Our latest speaker, Steve Drew, talked about Medic Malawi for We would welcome suggestions or which he is the UK organiser. volunteers for speakers in the Medic Malawi is a small charity coming winter. which funds a hospital in Mtunthama, rural Malawi, opened Noel Brown in 2001, together with a clinic for [email protected] feeding the malnourished and an

Give us grateful hearts, O Father, for all thy mercies, and make us mindful of the needs of others; for food in a world where many are hungry; for faith in a world where many walk in fear; for friends in a world where many walk alone; we give you thanks. Amen.

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WI Report– March-May 2016

In November Alison Fellows, who has a shop in Market Drayton, December’s meeting was an explained her career change from evening of entertainment by engineer to maker of jewellery. members, some of whom dressed She demonstrated how to make a in character and read letters simple piece of jewellery, after received in WW1. This was a which we set to work with our reprise of last May’s meeting, tools, copper wire, beads or other which many members had missed adornments, and twisted and through being at Westminster hammered away until Abbey for the Consecration of miraculously we had all produced Michael Beasley as Bishop of a passable pendant necklace or a Hertford. Sheila Moulton played pair of earrings. Congratulations the piano for Christmas carols, to Gill Gray, whose creation was and last of all, by way of an extra judged the best. rehearsal for the forthcoming community choir concert at On 20th November several Eccleshall School, the WI Singers Broughton members with gave a forgettable rendering of husbands and friends joined in a ‘Sleigh Ride’ which incorporated County visit to JCB. The day pelting the audience with started in the theatre with a film ‘snowballs.’ Sheila Moulton was presentation about the company, heard to comment that the singing then the rest of the morning was could only be described as ‘in the spent looking round the massive Les Dawson style!’ The ‘JCB Experience’ museum. After competition for a hand-made a delicious lunch, everyone went cracker was won by Maureen back to the theatre for a talk and Arnold. film show about Daylesford Organic, an enterprise started by The annual Carol Service took Lady Bamford, now comprising place at Lichfield Cathedral on two organic farms, shops and 14th December, and thanks are due restaurants. This was a special to Beryl Roe for arranging tea and event organised for WI Centenary mince pies at The George Year, and was so over-subscribed afterwards for all the Broughton that a second visit was arranged members who attended. for January, and more visits with afternoon tea are planned for this Other activities in December were year. a Craft Club outing to Swinfen,

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SPIRITUAL WALK

SATURDAY 3rd SEPTEMBER 2016 TURNING FROM DARK TO LIGHT Starting at 2 pm at Norton in Hales Church and walking to St Mary’s Mucklestone For Tea and Cake For further details contact Anna Mortimer 01630 672804

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CROXTON AND BROUGHTON GARDEN GUILD ANNUAL SHOW SATURDAY 13 AUGUST 2016 ALL WECOME!! Open Classes are available for Adults and Children. **NEW** NO ENTRY FEES THIS YEAR The Garden Guild will hold its annual show on Saturday 13th August in Broughton Parish Room. The Guild is very keen to encourage all members to enter and to invite non-members, including children under 16 to enter the open classes! There are to be no entry fees this year. Cards indicating the winning entries [1st, 2nd, 3rd] will be placed by the judges and trophies for the highest points in the various sections will be awarded.

The four Adult Open Classes are:  A Salad Tray [choice of 3 items chosen from: 1 lettuce, 1 cucumber, 2 tomatoes, 3 radish, 2 carrots, 1 beetroot, 1 sweet pepper, 3 spring onions]  A Vegetable Tray [choice of 4 items chosen from: 3 broad beans, 1 lettuce, 3 dwarf beans, 3 pods of the same variety of peas, 3 potatoes, 3 runner beans, 2 courgettes—displayed in a seed tray with parsley garnish.  A Vase of 6 stems of different perennial flowers.  A bottle of home-made cordial, wine or alcoholic drink

The three Children’s Open Classes are:  A 90th Birthday Card for the Queen, made with garden materials, eg seeds, petals, leaves etc.  A Hand Tied Posey—exhibited in a vase/jam jar of water.  Three pieces of a favourite “no-bake” tea-time treat— displayed on a plate and displayed with recipe in own hand writing. Child’s age to be displayed with each item entered please.

All entries to be staged between 9 am and 11.45 am on the day of the show. Doors open 3 pm. Further details and Show Schedule available from Judy Thompstone 01630 620225 and John Day 01630 620671. We look forward to seeing you at the Show!

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APRIL 2ND – 3RD 2016

Well done to the 20 members of the local community and friends who did a 'Clean for the Queen' community litter-pick on 2nd and 3rd April. Lots of rubbish collected, - the sun shone, it was actually quite enjoyable, and not a speck of rubbish is to be found anywhere.... for now!!!! It was decided that it was so worthwhile that it would become an annual community event.

* Thanks also to Pam Trafford, Rob Unsworth and others who helped but didn’t have their photographs taken on the day.

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Pyramid Rock Holiday Club For ages 5 to 11 Crafts, Music, Bible Stories, Games, Refreshments and More! Hosted by the Benefice of Ashley, Mucklestone, Broughton and Croxton Monday, 8 August – Friday, 12 August 2016 (9:30 – 12:00 each day) Venue: Hugo Meynell Primary School Due to the popularity of last year’s Holiday Club, ad- vance booking is strongly advised. Please contact Amanda Montandon at [email protected] or on 07512 857 942 to book your place or for more information.

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AGM Report: Young People’s Work To keep everyone appraised of the work being carried out by the Young People’s Work team, we have included their AGM Report.

Overview Appointments were made as at 1 January 2016 to replace Keeley Hathway in the Young People’s Role: Jean Buckley, School Link Worker – 6 hours a week (paid) Amanda Montandon, Young People’s Admin Worker – 6 hours a week (paid) Denise Keen, Benefice Development Worker – 6 hours a week (unpaid) The roles are subject to a 2-year contract. Jill Cheadle is serving as the line manager for these roles.

Development Connections – Connections got a “reboot” with our first event, an Easter Celebration held on 19 March. There was a slightly more structured format, with parents/carers and children splitting up for 30 minutes. Roger Pooley and Helen Dent coordinated and led both parent activities and worship this time, but in future, we really need more volunteers to help on both sides, and ideally Roger would be coordinating others to help lead these activities at future Connections events. The event was very well attended, and the children had a great time hunting eggs, making crafts, enjoying the lovely refreshments provided by our team of helpers, as well as a short act of worship. After the event, we held a review meeting on 11 April. We had decided that future Connections plans will take into account the success and take-up of the Easter Celebration, as well as the information that comes out of Roger and Helen’s discussion with parents. Due to the large take up, we agreed that we need to move forward with more events, but as we did not receive as much feedback as we would have liked from parents, we have arranged an interim “hour at the pub” on Monday, 16th May to invite parents to come along for an informal discussion about what they would like us to do for their families. Holiday Club – Steve Parker has agreed to lead our Holiday Club again this year, and Denise has already met with him to start the planning; there has been one formal planning meeting for the team, with two more scheduled. The theme this year will be Pyramid Rock, and the event is poised to take place the week of 8th August at Hugo Meynell. We still need more volunteers to help us make this year’s Holiday Club a success, whether they can volunteer for just one morning or an entire week. We are still looking for one more team leader (to lead a group of children for the entire week) and people to help with activities such as running games, telling stories, and helping with refreshments. Benefice-Wide Initiatives – Denise has been meeting with Croxton and Broughton to ascertain how they would like development work at their churches to progress and will take the 17th April service at Croxton to talk to the congregation about opportunities. Volunteers – We could definitely use more volunteers to work alongside us in carrying out Young People’s Work, particularly in areas such as Junior Church

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where a second adult is necessary, with school clubs and with Holiday Club, even if volunteers are only able to commit to one or two activities a year. Anyone that would like to help should contact Amanda at [email protected] or on 07512 857 942. Schools Hugo Meynell – Jean will continue to take Assemblies and will lead a lunchtime Church Club, working her way through the Year Groups. Volunteers to help out at Church Club will be greatly appreciated—many thanks to the three that have already volunteered. Jean coordinated and took two Easter Services for all pupils to attend over two days, 22 and 23 March, at St John the Baptist, Ashley. Many thanks to those who volunteered at these services. Jean also provided some activity stations to engage the children before their return to school. St Mary’s – Due to Jonathan’s departure, Jean spent some time shadowing him there while he took Assemblies. Although she is able to take Assemblies now, we really need to recruit others who are willing to take those assemblies, with Jean coordinating. It is envisaged that there will be occasions when she will need to help to run JAFFA in Denise's absence and pitch in with activity days and services. She assisted with the School Eucharist in March. Family Services – Jean has joined the rota planning committee and will be taking a more active role in Family service planning. She is currently working with the Scouts to plan a St George’s Day play for the April Ashley family service. She has also looked at ways to get the current Junior Church attendees more involved in the Ashley Family Services. Junior Church attendees will be helping with an activity in the service, taking collection and leading the intercessions. She is also planning to spend a session showing the Junior Church children how they can play an active part in the Pentecost Service she has been asked to lead. Administration More effective information-sharing systems for the team have been set up, and data on young people has been amalgamated into an improved database. Amanda has continued to take over various administrative tasks from Denise, and is putting systems in place to improve communication and advertising. She will man the dedicated Young People’s mobile number and ensure that individuals have one initial point of contact for bookings and information. Now that administrative systems are organised, Amanda will have more time to focus on the website and to ensure that benefice-wide policies are compliant and uniform. She will also be able to provide more administrative support to Jean, especially in light of Doug and Jonathan’s departures.

Individual Group Reports: JAFFA (reported by Denise Keen) Numbers attending remain around 18. I am grateful to Jim and Shirley for their time given weekly in planning and at sessions. Also to Clee, who is ‘reserve’ and Elizabeth and Eunice who organise the half termly church cleaning sessions which the children love. Jean Buckley is also available now to provide cover when needed. We continue to teach from both the Old and the New Testament – linking to the themes for the Family Services - and often use drama to retell and better understand the Bible stories.

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Numbers attending family services still fluctuate, but the children are enthusiastic to take part especially the 4 places in the choir we offer each month. With the help of parents providing lifts, we were able to take the Jaffa children to sing for the folks at Cheswardine Nursing Home shortly before Christmas, and that was very well-received. We saw Olivia, Lois and Arthur confirmed this year – all previous members of JAFFA (as well as our other Benefice groups – LOL and SHOWSTOPPERS) I think this should encourage us that our efforts may not appear to show fruit at the time, but that we sow for the future. Church Club (reported by Denise Keen) Around 12 Year 5 and 6 pupils have met most Thursday lunchtimes to explore different aspects of Christianity through video, discussion and artwork. Twice they have taken part in Family Services at Ashley, dramatising the Bible reading. The youngsters also enjoy taking care of the Reflection Space on rota and before Easter they helped to plan and produce some of the Stations. As in previous years, Jean Buckley ran a Lent course, which was well attended and enjoyed. LOL (reported by Denise Keen) We were pleased that most of the Year 7s moved on into ID in September and seem to have settled well there. At the same time, we only recruited 3 Year 6s, but the current Year 7s have continued to attend. So we are a small but happy group, seeing lots of cross-over now happening between youngsters from St Mary’s and Hugo Meynell. In December members of Madeley Puppet Group visited and a number of the youngsters took part in the Christingle Service at the Methodist Church. (Unfortunately this clashed with the Christingle at St John’s – perhaps something to be addressed next year!) Sue Richardson also visited to speak about a charity she and other members of the Methodist church supports, sponsoring children in developing countries. Otherwise our meetings are a mix of free time (darts, table tennis, air hockey, music), a craft activity, refreshments (always important for youngsters!) and a Bible and prayer time which we link to the church year so we have discussed Harvest, Advent, Epiphany, Lent and Easter. One of our initial aims of LOL was to support those in Years 6 and 7 in this time of transition, which I think it continues to do. The group are very supportive of one another and open about discussing the ups and downs in their lives, particularly at school. It continues to be a great joy to share this work with Jill and Sue from Ashley Methodist Church. Junior Church (reported by Beth Williams) During the last year Junior Church has undergone a few changes. We have had to say some goodbyes. Firstly to a much respected and loved leader, in Ruth Rugg who left for Spain, and of course the lovely Heming girls Eden, Iris and Ava. Doug and Jonathan`s support will also be missed. We are meeting on an official basis every Sunday throughout the term time (apart from family service Sundays) but if we have enough leaders and some children in church, we have met in the holidays as well. We have 4 or 5 regular children, but can have quite a few more on a busy week. Georgie, Amanda and myself are happy to lead between us, and Fiona Durrant comes in as a second adult when needed. Cont’d on page 29

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We feel we are able to offer our regular children, visiting children or any new children, a time of social interaction, a bit of bible knowledge and usually some craft and a prayer, but finding the time to prepare can be difficult as we are all working etc. The children enjoy being part of the wider church, especially in special services and family services. Roger Pooley must be thanked for his help with the Nativity. These occasions offer the children a chance to take responsibility for readings / prayers/giving out and preparing flowers etc. A sense of belonging is definitely important for the children and the leaders, and thank you to everyone who enhances that feeling! The children are a delight, and I always leave a session feeling uplifted -last Sunday being a case in point. A spontaneous, therefore unprepared session, 2 lovely visiting children, 2 very excitable boys (don`t know why!) and a 12 year old who was able to explain the bible story better than me! It is great we can offer the children as much as we do, and we are the only church in the benefice which has a weekly term time junior church during the service. As a church if we want to welcome more families, maybe we should be considering what we can do to expand and possibly create different aged groups as we had before, but as always we need more people on board to do this!

ID (reported by Beth Williams) ID had a steady year and continued to meet once a fortnight up until Doug left in February. Numbers had gone down for various reasons, but we had 5 or 6 most evenings, and as many as 12 if everyone came. Some of the leaders had to leave due to work commitments and of course Keeley Hathway left, so Beth and Doug ran the session latterly. Over the last year the children enjoyed games, food, visiting artists, trips, a cartoon bible course, and general chit chat! The age range was from year 8 upwards. It became apparent as a group of year 8s joined the established older group that there is really a need for younger and older aged groups as their needs and maturity levels change so much through the high school years. We would of course need extra helpers to be able to do this; we are hoping to be able to restart a group so watch this space for where to volunteer!

Loving Lord Jesus we pray that You will be lifted up in the youth ministries of today and that the saving gospel of grace will be shared with the young people that attend. We ask that such Church and Christian fellowships will be places of fun and fellowship – but also that Your name will be lifted up and honoured.

Bless the leaders of Christian youth groups and give them the wisdom to lead by example and the have a heart for those that are in their care, so that Your name is lifted up and glorified in their lives, in Jesus’ name we pray,

Amen

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www.botanyplants.co.uk 3,000 different trees, shrubs, & perennials. Find us in RHS plantfinder as MMuc and SEND Open Mon-Fri all year, ( Mon/Tues-call for attention)+ Sat.: April-Sept.,- Closed Sundays

Mucklestone Spring Walk 2016 Walk at your leisure

Mucklestone Business Centre Can we help you work closer to home? A range of small offices, stores and workshops are still available –also daily and annual fishing permits.

Illustrated Talks and Gardens Tours for local Clubs and Societies

William and Louise Friend, E:- [email protected], M: 07714241668 (/7) Market Drayton, Shropshire. - Tel: 01630 674284 - Janet m.07929 178751 Off the B5026, Eccleshall Rd., between Loggerheads (A53) & Woore (A51)- for Nurseries use Rock Lane -signed opposite the old schoolhouse.TF9 4FA , for Bus Centre use Cemetery Lane opposite the Church .TF9 4FB

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Graham Withers & Co incorporating Warren Upton & Garside Family solicitors 46 Cheshire Street Market Drayton Shropshire TF9 1PQ

Tel: 01630 657 222

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MEET YOUR LOCAL PARISH COUNCILLORS Residents of the Croxton Ward are represented by three local Councillors on Eccleshall Parish Council

Cllr. Bryan Delanchy Cllr. David Jacques Cllr. Ros Langford 5 Highfields, Croxton Sugnall Hall, Sugnall Ferndale, Woodwall [Chairman Planning Green , Croxton Committee]

Eccleshall Parish Council is elected every four years, and is made up of 15 councillors representing four Wards. Croxton has three Councillors, Eccleshall Town eight, Horsley has three and Slindon has one. As an elected body, the work of a Parish Council involves delivering services to meet local needs, striving to improve the quality of life in the parish and representing the local community. It is not a political body. The Croxton Ward serves the largest area in the Parish between Eccleshall and Loggerheads.

The Parish Council meets on the third Wednesday in every month, with the exception of August and December. At the start of each meeting is a session for Public Participation, where residents can raise issues of local importance. Six out of the 10 meetings are held at the Community Centre in Eccleshall, with two per year being held at both Broughton Parish Rooms and Offley Hay Village Hall to enable local residents to attend more easily. The Planning Committee meets on the first and third Wednesday of each month. The Parish Council has several committees:- Traffic Management Committee, Enhancements Committee, Policy and Resources Committee, and Footpaths Committee, which meet every 6 weeks or so.

We, in the Croxton Ward, are privileged to live in a most beautiful part of Staffordshire – known as the Woodland Quarter. It is a very friendly, caring community. People usually take great pride in their surroundings and there are a whole range of activities in which people can become involved. We

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hope residents will contact us if matters arise that are of concern to them, so that we can continue to ensure that this is a wonderful place in which to live. Of course, we are currently living in a time of ‘cut-backs’ to services, and we have been informed by Staffordshire County Council that there will be some changes to highways and environmental management. To report highways issues such as road damage, street lights, drains, road signs, paths, pavements, verges, bus stops and shelters, …. there is a new method of on- line reporting via http://www.staffordshire.gov.uk/highways and click on Report It . You can add a photograph highlighting the problem . Otherwise please call 0300 111 8000 during the Contact Centre opening hours: 8am - 8pm Monday to Thursday, 8am - 6pm on Friday and 9am - 5pm on Saturday.

At the beginning of April a group of local residents from across the community got together to try to reduce the amount of litter that had been dropped around our country lanes. It was so successful and worthwhile that it was decided to make this an annual event, so if you would like to take part in the next ‘Big Community Clean-Up’, please make a note in your diaries. Two new benches are being installed in the Croxton Millennium Wood which is looking really beautiful with the grass mown, the play area tidy, and the bluebells coming up in the wood. If you have any spare bluebells in your garden, - when they have finished flowering, - you could add them and help us create a beautiful bluebell wood for the future.

Cllr. Ros Langford

BROUGHTON WI Meetings are held in Broughton Parish Room at 7.30 pm on the second Thursday of the month.

 9th June—Image and Vitality with RACHEL BEST. Competition: Make and wear a tiara. Raffle. 14th July—Garden meeting at the home of Beryl Roe 11th August—Cycling in Sri Lanka with Lou and Jenny.

New members are most welcome. Contact the President Mrs PAM SMITH 01630 620410 or the Secretary Mrs LESLEY ARCHIBALD 01785 850997

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WI Report – March to May 2016 At the AGM in March Pam Smith Two days later, on St Patrick’s Day, a was returned as President for her group meeting was hosted by Maer & third year, Judy Rowlands and Judy District at Whitmore Village Hall, Thompstone retired from the when Henry VIII (John White from Committee, and Marie Poole was Tutbury Castle) entertained. welcomed as a new Committee Broughton’s winning streak member. continued with Lesley Archibald coming first in the competition for a Several members attended the Spring Tudor peg doll, and second for an Council on 15th March at which Irish souvenir. Lesley Archibald received a 95-year membership certificate on behalf of In early April several members went Broughton. The morning speaker around the area ‘Cleaning for the was Julia Roberts, Treasurer of the Queen’ with high-vis jackets, litter- National Federation of WIs. The pickers and special purple bin bags afternoon speaker was Dave Heeley – supplied by the council. It was a better known as ‘Blind Dave,’ who rewarding experience and one to be went blind at the age of 17 but whose repeated wherever possible, as the positive attitude to life was an bags filled were but a small fraction inspiration to all. He has undertaken of all the rubbish lying in our numerous physical challenges, such hedgerows and lanes. as skiing, water skiing, cliff jumping, and running, he is the only blind ‘Learning Sign Language’ was the person to have run seven marathons subject of April’s meeting, when in seven days on seven continents, Vicky Pilsel, a member of ‘Let’s and has raised thousands of pounds Make Jam’ WI, talked about hearing for charity. Broughton achieved problems, a subject recognised by success on two counts at the Council many of our members, and her meeting, firstly winning the Trustees involvement with signing for the Centenary Challenge competition for deaf. She taught us the alphabet and a community project with an entry how to say certain things in British about the Croxton Well Dressing. A Sign Language, which is now certificate and cheque for £100 was recognised as an official language of received for this on behalf of the UK. Vicky was an excellent Broughton WI by Ros Langford, who speaker. She judged the competition also won the Craft Art & Design for an arrangement of spring flowers shield for her painting of a hare in in a teacup and the winner was Ros pastels. This and other winning Langford. Entries for competitions at animal paintings can be seen on the the County Show on 1st and 2nd June website (see below). were finalised – always a good day out if you have time to go.

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April was rounded off with a party of musical entertainment in the Parish 35 enjoying the annual dinner held Room. this year at Slaters restaurant in Baldwins Gate, and at the time of For more info, photos etc. on local, writing we have a special community group and county activities, please celebration for the Queen’s 90th visit the website birthday to look forward to on 29th www.broughtonwomensinstituite.wee May, with visits to local gardens bly.com followed by afternoon tea and

Staffordshire Historic Churches Trust Sponsored Ride & Stride – 10th September 2016

Please note the date for this year’s Sponsored Ride & Stride (or Drive!). If you would like to take part or know more about this annual event which Croxton and Broughton churches always support, please contact Beryl Roe for St Paul’s Croxton (01630 620248) or Judy Thompstone for St Peter’s Broughton (01630 620225). Sponsor forms should be available later in the summer.

Broughton Tennis Club – Court Renovation

Due to all the wet weather in April, work on renovating the two grass courts at Wetwood was delayed but has resumed again now. It seems unlikely that the courts will be ready for play this summer, but we will keep you posted.

Meanwhile we still need to raise funds to pay for the future running of the club, as annual costs of maintenance of the courts and insurance can be considerable. For the past 17 years we have raised funds through putting on a ‘Live & Local’ concert each autumn and hope to do so again this year – details will be in the next ABC magazine.

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MY FAVOURITE HYMN –Chosen by Mrs Sheila Pye FOR THE BEAUTY OF THE EARTH

1. For the beauty of the earth, 4. For the joy of human love, for the glory of the skies, brother, sister, parent, child, for the love which from our birth friends on earth and friends over and around us lies; above, Lord of all, to thee we raise for all gentle thoughts and mild; this our hymn of grateful praise. Lord of all, to thee we raise this our hymn of grateful praise. 2. For the beauty of each hour of the day and of the night, 5. For thy church, that evermore hill and vale, and tree and flower, lifteth holy hands above, sun and moon, and stars of light; offering up on every shore Lord of all, to thee we raise her pure sacrifice of love; this our hymn of grateful praise. Lord of all, to thee we raise this our hymn of grateful praise. 3. For the joy of ear and eye, for the heart and mind's delight, F. S. Pierpoint for the mystic harmony, [1835-1917] linking sense to sound and sight; Lord of all, to thee we raise this our hymn of grateful praise. Starting to school as a 3-year old, this was one of the first hymns I learnt. We tiny children were encouraged to look around through the window and count the wonders we spotted. We also held up our hands to list all the good things in our everyday lives. This was 1949, so no television etc, just those things mentioned in our singing. I always knew that whoever wrote these words knew and enjoyed my world. Growing up in the Potteries, our night sky was permanently red in one direction [supplied by Shelton Iron & Steel]. The opposite way the evening fairies had shed their bags of silver over the now darkened woods and we gazed at this magic in awe and wonder. These lovely simple words are with me still and recently verse 3 played [and still is ongoing] a huge part in my life when the earth tipped a little and friends and family were truly wonderful. I walked these comforting acres watching the sunrise. Glorious! “For the beauty of the earth”. Sheila Pye 36

Scrap Removed

Pins Kitchen Cars to caravans The Robin Hood

Lower Road, Ashley, Logs Market Drayton Shropshire Hard Wood Logs Authentic Thai Cuisine in for sale a Traditional English Pub Opening evenings: Wednesday to Saturday from George Dyke 7pm Bookings for other evenings & Daughters are available with a minimum of 12 people 01782 796 395 Reservations www.hattonwoodfuel.co.uk Tel: 01630 672 237

Lower Farm, Fairoak ST21 6PW Mains Gas, LPG and Oil

We are your local Worcester- Bosch installer and offer a 5 year manufacturer’s warranty on all their boilers

GasSafe and OFTEC Registered

Telephone 01630 620222 or e-mail Bernie.Gasservice @BTInternet.com

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Hill & Swift Croxton Ford Dealers Service

Meaford Garage Stone Station

Tel 01785 813 332 01630 620226 & 814 622 Country Clothing For your new Ford & Quality Post Office Used Vehicles General Hardware Service Sales (Gas – Paraffin – Coal) MOT Centre Rent-a-Car

Parish Churches of Ashley, Broughton, Croxton and Mucklestone are hosting Benefice Breakfasts Saturday, 12th November 2016 Saturday, 4th February 2017 Saturday, 25th March 2017

@ Hungersheath Farm Tea Room 9.00-11.00 am

All Welcome- Full English breakfast costs £7 per person (Lighter option of croissants available if pre- ordered). Please book a place with Noel Brown, tel. 01630 672851 [email protected]

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Rob Unsworth Property Repairs and Restoration

Fitting kitchens bedrooms and bathrooms. Timber/UPVC Windows and Doors, Conservatories Re-roofing or roof repairs. Electrical, plumbing or woodwork repairs. Dressers, shelves and bookcases made to order.

Phone anytime – 01785 280 373 Shukers Croft, New Inn Bank, Bishops Offley, Staffs

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ANCIENT WOODLAND At long last spring has arrived and with it grow them from seed or from specialist our lovely countryside is displaying its nurseries, but they must not be dug up usual magic. One of the most wonderful from the wild which would be illegal. sights in England is the bluebell wood. If The Spanish bluebell is becoming you have ever walked through the a real thug and is threatening the English Ancient woodland, Canridden, at the bluebell by hybridising and will soon back of Woore, in April or May, the sight swamp the English one in the same of the blue haze will have taken your garden. It's easy to tell the difference breath away. between them, the English Bluebells bow their heads and the Spanish are upright and stronger. A similar plant which flowers at this time of year is wild garlic, but it has white flowers. A bank of it always flowers on the grass verge on the main road going down the hill towards Bridgemere from Woore, however I wouldn't suggest that you stop to look as someone will run into you! Wild garlic has been eaten since Neolithic times. Also garlic flowered woods in Land English Bluebells Records were used as boundaries, back as far as 1st. Century A.D. Fortunately we are not over-run with Muntjac as some of the Ancient woodlands in the south of England, where the deer are finding bluebells a tasty meal. Ancient woodland has many wild flowers growing under the trees as they used to be coppiced, which let in the spring sunshine through the canopy, which allows spring flowers to grow. Historically it was thought that forests and woods were full of evil, so bluebells rang their bells to gather the fairies together for protection! As bluebells are full of toxins this is perhaps why. Wild Garlic flowers One of their uses was to make glue for bookbinding, which would Coppiced woods were extremely protect the books from silver fish. Also valuable in bygone eras up until quite they were used as a diuretic and to stop recently and will be something I will be bleeding, but I don't think I would try it. expounding upon in the next issue. Bluebells will spread profusely if protected from being trodden on by Vicki Walker animals and humans, they also like being damp but not water logged. You can

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Spencer The Jeweller High Street, Eccleshall Jewellery Workshops On Site 01785 851 760

Croxton Dollin & Cattery Morris Animal Feed Specialist The Local Feed Merchants Croxton Eccleshall For Local Farmers Stafford ST21 6PE Visit our Mill Cash & Carry Inspection welcome See our wide range of Horse, Pet Feeds And needs Proprietor

J.M. Timmis Standon Mill Tel: 01630 620 615 01782 791 260

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INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Category Name Page

Benefice Breakfast 38 Building Services Geoff Shanahan 7 Car Dealer Hill & Swift 38 Carpet/Upholstery Cleaning Carpet Diem 16 Cattery Croxton Cattery 42 Chimney Sweep Ian Elkin 37 Chapel Croxton Independent Methodists 10 Church St Paul’s Croxton 8 Church St Peter’s Broughton 12 Coffee Shop Courtyard Coffee 31 Community Celebration to mark the Queen’s 90th Birthday 4 Connections Pyramid Rock Holiday Club 23 Electrician Mark Bradley 9 Feed Merchants Dollin & Morris 42 Fencing EFC Fencing 28 Florist BBs 17 Fuel Merchant Staffordshire Fuels Ltd 39 Funeral Directors Haynes Funeral Directors 20 Garden Centre Mucklestone Nurseries 30 Garden Guild Croxton & Broughton 10 Gas Engineer Gas Service 37 Gas Engineer Swallow Gas Services 18 Jewellers Spencer The Jeweller 42 Memorial Stones Owens Memorial 40 Parish Councillors 32 Ploughman’s Lunch St Peter’s Broughton 19 Pre-School Cotes Heath & Standon Baby & Toddler Group 7 Property Repairs Rob Unsworth 40 Restaurant Pins Kitchen 37 Restaurant The Star Inn 27 Scrap Remover & Logs George Dyke & Daughters 37 Service Station Croxton Service Station 38 Solicitors Graham Withers & Co 31 Spiritual Walk 19 Tennis Courts Wetwood Tennis Courts 7 Venue Hire Broughton Parish Room 9 Waste Management John Reeves 18 Youth Work Website 7

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SERVICES – June to August 2016 Croxton St Peter’s St Paul’s Croxton Independent Broughton Methodist 5th June, 2nd 11 am Songs of 11 am Holy 11 am Matins Sunday after Trinity Praise Communion

12th June,3rd 10 am Holy 11 am Holy 11 am Divine Sunday after Trinity Communion Communion Worship

19th June, 4th 11 am United Family 11 am Matins Sunday after Trinity Service at St Paul’s Croxton

26th June, 5th 11 am Holy 11 am Divine 11 am Matins Sunday after Trinity Communion Worship

3rd July, 6th 11 am Songs of 11 am Holy 11 am Matins Sunday after Trinity Praise Communion

10th July, 7th 10 am Holy 11 am Holy 11 am Divine Sunday after Trinity Communion Communion Worship

17th July, 8th 11 am Family Service at 11 am Matins Sunday after Trinity St Paul’s Croxton

24th July, 9th 11 am Holy 11am United Matins at the Chapel Sunday after Trinity Communion

31st July, 10th 11 am Family Service at 11 am Matins Sunday after Trinity St Pauls’s Croxton

7th August, 11th 11 am Songs of 11 am Holy 11 am Matins Sunday after Trinity Praise Communion 11 am United Service at St Paul’s Croxton 14th August 12th 10 am Holy Young Peoples’ Holiday Club Sunday after Trinity Communion led by Steve Parker 21st August, 13th 11 am Matins 11 am Family Service at St Paul’s Croxton Sunday after Trinity

28th August, 14th 11 am Holy Communion—Joint Service at St Peter’s Broughton Sunday after Trinity with the Bishop of Stafford, The Rt Revd Geoff Annas

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