MARCH YYAARRNNTTOONN 2011

ILLAGE VVILLAGE Editorial Committee:

Mrs. Helen Anderson, 81 Spencer Avenue, OX5 1NQ, tel. 371656 - Secretary and Assistant Editor Mrs. Ruth Astall, 19 The Spears, OX5 1NS, tel. 372637 - Editor Frances Peck - Distribution Michael Westall, 1 Stocks Tree Close, OX5 1LU, tel. 373445 - Treasurer NEEWWSS N Website: www.yarnton-village.org.uk

CALENDAR FOR THE MONTH Wed. 2nd 9.30 a.m. service at St. Bartholomew’s (and every Wednesday) Wed. 2nd Lunch Club, Village Hall, 1 p.m. (and every Wednesday) Thur. 3rd Senior Club, Village Hall, 2 p.m. Sat. 5th Prize Bingo, Scout Hut, 7.30 p.m. (and every Saturday) Mon. 7th Short Mat Bowling, Village Hall, 10 a.m. (and every Monday) Mon. 7th Book Reading Group, tel. 371656 Wed. 9th Parish Council Meeting, Village Hall, 7 p.m. Thur. 10th W.I. Annual Meeting, Village Hall, 7.45 p.m. Sat. 12th Dance (ballroom and sequence), British Legion, 8.15 p.m. - 11.30 p.m. Tue. 15th Yarnton-with-Begbroke History Society, Village Hall, 7.45 p.m. Thur. 17th Senior Club, Village Hall, 2 p.m. Thur. 17th Gardening Club, Village Hall, 7.30 p.m. Fri. 25th Quiz Night, British Legion, 8 p.m. Sat. 26th Dance (ballroom and sequence), British Legion, 8.15 p.m. - 11.30 p.m. Thur. 31st Senior Club, Village Hall, 2 p.m.

Advertising Rates One-eighth A4 page: £72 per year, or £8 per issue One-quarter A4 page: £117 per year, or £13 per issue One-half A4 page: £207 per year, or £23 per issue Whole A4 page: £40 per issue Classified Ads: 5p per word. Must include telephone number. The Editorial Committee in no way accepts responsibility for services supplied by our advertisers.

Distributed free of charge at the beginning of each month to every household in Yarnton Yarnton Village News is printed by Litho & Digital Impressions Ltd. Tel. 01993 868179/868705, email: [email protected]

Copy Deadline for April Issue Material for inclusion in the April Newsletter should be received by midday on Friday 4th March. Copy should be e-mailed to: [email protected] and [email protected] or delivered to Mrs. Ruth Astall, 19 The Spears, tel. 372637. The Editorial Committee reserves the right to cut, edit, or omit articles, or refuse advertisements for reasons of space limitation, suitability, etc. Their decision is final and no correspondence can be entered into. Copy date for the May issue is Friday 8th April.

Website

Those of you who look at the website regularly will have noticed that it hasn’t been updated for several months. We have had some technical problems with the site and have been in the process of having it redesigned. The new site should be available during March, so do check and see if it is up and running and let us know what you think of it. The address is www.yarnton-village.org.uk.

WITNEY SHUTTLE

Did you know that you can travel fast and direct from Yarnton to Heathrow, Gatwick & Luton airports? Well you can! The Witney Shuttle stops at the Turnpike Pub car park.

Heathrow just £38 pp return. Gatwick & Luton just £55pp return. Children under 14 - half price.

Our minibuses offer a shared, timetabled, daily service, direct to all terminals. Donations to Yarnton Village News

Call us on free phone 0800 043 4633 or Many thanks to everyone who has kindly donated to the visit our website for further details Village News – your contributions are much appreciated. It’s not too late to return your envelopes, and, as mentioned in last month’s issue, your envelope can be placed in the silver Post Box situated inside the new Budgens shop. Turn right immediately on entering and the post box is on the wall on the right of the fruit and vegetable display. Alternatively you can give the envelope WWW.WITNEYSHUTTLE.COM to any committee member. Please do not hand it in at the post office counter. The Yarnton Village News committee would like to thank the Fraser group for giving us this facility. Michael Westall, Yarnton Village News Treasurer Over the Gate Yarnton Pre-School

A piece of information my Dad passed on to me was to Pre-School have spent a busy term on a journey through always approach gateways and lanes quietly. I’ve always outer space. We have been looking at rockets, making remembered this and it is amazing what you can see if planets and practising moon walking. We’ve also you do. celebrated the Chinese New Year, and the children have On my bike rides up the main road, I look into every been concentrating on their new display at Pre-School and gateway. I was excited the other day when I saw three deer using chopsticks to eat their food. - the white on their tails showing as they ran away. Hares We have also been making sweets for loved ones to have been sitting motionless in the fields looking like big celebrate St. Valentine’s Day, and with Spring approaching, stones - then they prick up their long velvety ears when we will be looking at New Life (plants and baby animals) they hear something. I’ve also seen kestrels eating on the and the weather. ground, buzzards, pheasants, foxes and rabbits. Some staff at Pre-School will be coming to the end of their So when you are out and about, go quietly up to a gateway NVQ training. and have a good look - you may even see mad March hares Pre-School have lots of fund-raising events to come once ‘boxing’. the warmer weather arrives, so watch this space….. Ellen Cocking

QUIZ NIGHT ALAN’S GLASS & GLAZING SERVICES YARNTON VILLAGE CLUB (BRITISH LEGION) Misted units replaced

Broken glass replaced FRIDAY, 25th MARCH

Greenhouse glass supplied Start Time: 8 p.m. Contact Alan on 01865 430560 or mobile 07887 655772 Entrance: £1 per person

Kidlington & District Good Neighbour Scheme

Since the Scheme started in June 2010 it has gone from strength to strength. We now have around 80 clients on our books, with new people always asking for help. Gardening in the summer time proved the most popular, with befriending and dog- walking a close second. Other services we provide include minor house repairs, collecting shopping, prescriptions and library books. It never ceases to amaze us how local people are so good- natured and are prepared to give up their time to help someone less able to do things for themselves. We have had some lovely comments from grateful clients, so it has been an all-round success story. It is very satisfying for us and for our volunteers to feel we are able to provide help to someone who lives locally. In November we held a Tea Party for our Good Neighbour Scheme volunteers. It was a way of thanking them for all their hard work during the year. We had a very pleasant afternoon. The volunteers do not often have an opportunity to meet each other, and this gave them that chance and also enabled the Good Neighbour Scheme staff to get to know the volunteers better. We always have room for new volunteers; if you think you could spare an hour or so a week please contact us on 378479, or call into our office in the Exeter Hall - we would love to hear from you.

Yarnton Blues Football Club Janette Cardy Fitness Celebrating 21 Years of Youth Football

presents With the big freeze finally over and the start of a new year

the players were eager to get playing again. January brought success for most of our teams, but in particular ZUMBA the U12s had a great run by winning all three of their matches, scoring an impressive 22 goals and conceding Every Wednesday 6.30 pm. none. They are thrilled to be sitting at the top of their Yarnton Village Hall. £5 per class league with an unbeaten record since the start of the season.

U7s: Our youngest team have played against Tower Hill For further details and to book your place contact and Milton-U-Wychwood. They all played really well Janette on 07831 255532 or showing great enthusiasm. Well done boys and girls and [email protected] well done to goal scorers Harri Dawson, Kieran Oliver and www.janettecardyfitness.co.uk Thomas Deakin. U8s: Our U8s continue to enjoy training on a Monday We are also looking at running a 4-week evening evening and are still on the lookout for more players so that they can start to play matches. ‘Legs, Bums and Tums’ course; let us know if you U9s: This age group have had four great matches, winning are interested in this at all three and losing just the one. They are through to the next round of the cup after beating local rivals Garden city 2-0 Janette Cardy Fitness also provides in a close, exciting match. Jake Towsey, Nathan Emmett and Andrew Mace have scored 12 goals between them PERSONAL TRAINING during the four games. U10s: Winning one and losing two, the U10s continue to SMALL GROUP FITNESS PILATES improve their league position and are currently mid-table. BIKINI BODY TRAINING U11s: The U11s were delighted to notch up their first league win by beating Deddington Town Colts Cheetahs 4-3. As the season progresses they are getting more used to playing 11-a-side, which is showing in the much closer results. U12s: During January Captain Lloyd Belcher scored 7 goals for the team, followed by 4 from Alastair Grime, 3 Jamie Dalton, 3 Alfie Sherlock, 2 Reuben Tyndall and 1 each from Cameron Stuart, Sammy Hart and Jack Barker. U13s: The U13s have had mixed fortune, drawing two and losing two. But despite this they currently stand an impressive third in the table. U14s: The U14s are holding onto their mid-table position despite losing games in January. Yarnton Blues welcomes new players to the club, and in particular they are keen to have more players in the younger age groups U6s-U9s. For more information and details of the training nights please visit the website www.yarntonblues.co.uk or contact Delroy Evans on 01865 372735 or [email protected]

Lion’s share for ARCh!

Customers and staff at the Red Lion public house in Yarnton held an auction in aid of local charity ARCh (Assisted Reading for Children in Oxfordshire), which helps primary school children develop a love of reading. The event was organised by Simon Goff who runs a quiz night at the pub on alternate Sundays. Donations were received from local businesses, including the New Theatre, Cotswold Lodge Hotel, Herbie’s Autos, Aziz Restaurant, Cotswold Wildlife Park and Chipping Norton Theatre, and over £400 was raised on the night. ARCh Development Manager, Jane Rendle said, ‘We are very grateful to all who supported the event. It was a fun evening and the money raised will be used to buy resources for our volunteers to use to encourage the children they work with’. More information on the charity can be found on their website www.archoxfordshire.org.uk or by calling the ARCh office on 01869 320380. Glyme Valley Probus Club For Ladies

Our New Year meeting began with a local lady, Mini Patel, NEW PEOPLE TO JOIN VILLAGE HALL 200 CLUB telling us about the traditions of Indian hand painting. This originated in the Arabic countries and dates back We still have a few vacant numbers for the above 200 Club. around 5000 years. The henna is plant-derived and is Prizes are £25 per week mixed with spices and milk, tea and coffee, and this is then with bonuses of £50 in June and £100 in December. used to adorn a bride. The deeper the colour of the henna Annual subscription fee is £12. means more prosperity for the bride and increased love Payment can be either by cash or cheque made payable to from her new family. The henna painting, we were told, Yarnton Village Hall. usually lasts around 3 weeks, during which time no Please join this worthwhile fund-raising event for your housework is undertaken by the new bride. The various local hall and be in with the chance of winning designs used are all symbolic and have significant £25 every week. meanings for the newly married couple. If you require any more information please contact Several of our members were delighted to offer their Lynne Newin on 373852. hands for painting, which was all very delicately and beautifully drawn by our speaker, and also in the hope the designs would last for at least 3 weeks. We have a short waiting list and would welcome enquiries from potential members. For further information please telephone 01993 812025. Sandy Rasch

Yarnton W.I.

In March we have our Annual Meeting, when we look back over the previous year, and also when we elect the new committee and officers. We are keen to get new members with new ideas onto the committee, so if you feel you could volunteer, or if you would like to know more of what is involved, then please speak to any existing committee member. We shall have our usual book stall and a raffle at this meeting. Tea hostesses are Janet Ward, Beryl Wareham, Jennifer Watts and Gaynor White. Yarnton will be hosting the Cherwell Group Meeting in the Village Hall on Wednesday 30th March, when the speaker will be Valerie Threlfall, talking about ‘Secrets of Honeymoon Suitcases, 1850 to the present day’. Numbers are limited, so please contact Sheila on 373445 to see if any tickets are still available. Ruth Astall

Yarnton Parish Council

Clerk: Peter Luke Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer: Office: Village Hall, The Paddocks, Yarnton, OX5 1TE. Peter Luke. Tel: 378476 Tel. 378476. e-mail: [email protected] District Councillors: The Parish Office is open Tuesdays and Thursdays Michael Gibbard. Tel: 849435 9.30 a.m. to 11 a.m. If the Clerk is not available when you Trevor Stevens. Tel: 451800 call, please leave a message on the answerphone and a County Councillors: response will be made as soon as possible. Maurice Billington. Tel: 842235 Parish Office: The Parish Office in the village hall has now Michael Gibbard. Tel: 849435 been relocated into the new extension at the end of the left Yarnton Village Hall hand corridor after entering the main entrance. Bookings: Tel. 07948 722633 The post box is at the left end of the Village Hall. Planning Applications: Future Meeting dates: 9th March and 13th April in the 11/00029/F. Rear of 198 Woodstock Road, erection of Village Hall at 7 p.m. The Annual Parish Meeting will be on house and garage. 15th April. 11/00031/F. 25 Pixey Close, single-storey rear extension Parish Council - contact numbers 11/00042/F. The Turnpike Public House, illuminated Parish Council Chairman signs, etc. Brian Newell. Tel: 842253 11/00067/F. 1-4 Oxford Industrial Park, clad existing Parish Council Vice-Chairman canopy, etc. Michael Gibbard. Tel: 849435 11/00078/F. 1 Great Close Road, two-storey side Parish Council Members: extension. John Burford. Tel: 849750 Planning Decisions: Hilda Cable. Tel: 376180 10/01758/F. Garage Block, Spencer Avenue. Extension of Harry Carrier. Tel: 841733 time limit. Granted 17.01.11. David Crawford. Tel: 377278 Carol Green. Tel: 371355 Anna Isles. Tel: 372895 Fred Jones. Tel: 373871

2011 Census: Every ten years the Office of National Statistics (ONS) carries out a census to find out more about the people who live in England and Wales and about the make-up of local neighbourhoods. The next census will take place on Sunday, 27th March 2011 when ONS will be sending out questionnaires for around 25 million households to complete.

Parish Precepts 2011: The Budget meeting was held on 19th January when decisions were made on the expenditure and grants for the forthcoming financial year 1st April 2011 to 31st March 2012. The budget total was £43,600, which resulted in a sum of £41.64 for a band D property, being less than the previous year. Grants to local organisations were agreed and the following were successful: • Yarnton Playing Fields: £10,500 towards running costs at Littlemarsh and Yarnton Park • Yarnton Scouts: £399 towards large gazebo • Yarnton History Society: £200 towards funding • Yarnton Playgroup: £2,000 towards increased premises • Yarnton Dramatic Society: £500 towards purpose-built storage area The two management committees of the Playing Fields and the Village Hall are to be congratulated on their foresight and determination to carry out and complete the extension to the Village Hall, and the proposed new pavilion at Littlemarsh, which has now received planning permission but still requires funding.

Parish Elections: The Parish of Yarnton has to elect 9 councillors on 5th May to serve on the Parish Council and one District Councillor for the next 4 years. Nomination papers, guidance booklets and the notice of election posters will be available by the beginning of March. Poll cards will be issued on 8th April (after the withdrawal of candidates deadline).

Compostable Caddy Bin Liners Reminder: The caddy bin liners are still selling well and stocks at the Parish office in the Village Hall will be maintained for collection on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m., or will be delivered by arrangement if more convenient and not possible to collect. The price is £3 (three pounds) per roll of 40 liners. Telephone 378476. The sale of liners has received an encouraging response and stocks will be maintained for your convenience.

Annual Parish Meeting: The A.P.M. this year will be on Friday 15th April at 7.30 p.m. in the Village Hall, when you will have the opportunity to raise any concerns or ideas for improvements within the village. The speaker this year will be Alexander Madden, the Managing Director of Agrivert, and the presentation will be an explanation of the recently-installed digestate plant at Worton Farm, which has been the topic of much interest and concern.

Welcome to Yarnton Booklets: The booklet can be viewed on the website www.yarnton-village.org.uk and is available from the parish office, and also from the new Post Office at Yarnton.

New Voters Registration Process: The Government has announced that voters will be asked to register individually from 2014 in order to modernise the electoral registration system and tackle fraud. From 2014, voters will be asked to provide their date of birth, signature and national insurance number, all of which will be cross-checked, before they are added to the register. The process will replace the existing system of household registration, in which one person at each address is responsible for providing the names of eligible voters who live there. The measure will speed up the timetable for implementing individual registration, which was not due to replace household registration until 2015.

Berkeley Homes site: We have been notified by Cherwell D.C. that a total of 16 properties have now either been or are about to be occupied at Cresswell Close, and the process will continue during 2011 until the 168 properties are complete.

Is this your cat? Yarnton-with-Begbroke History Society

I have been feeding a ‘stray’ black un-neutered male cat, With the future of forests so much in the news, the talk this about 4/5 years old. He walks with a slight limp; he also month by Charles Tyzack on ‘The Decline and Fall of has a top tooth missing. His head is big and fluffy, and he Wychwood Forest’ seems particularly relevant. The seems to know Yarnton very well. meeting is at 7.45 p.m. at Yarnton Village Hall on Tuesday If no owner comes forward, he will need to be re-homed - 15th March. any offers please? He is very streetwise and affectionate, and would be a lovely pet, if he is not already someone’s. Please call 07734 305368. Thank you.

PUZZLE SPOT

Here is a brain teaser to celebrate the fact that this year (2011) sees the four-hundredth anniversary of the Authorized Version (aka King James Version) of the Bible.

Considering the following verse from Ezra 7; can you spot what is exceptional? (An extra hint is given below the solution to last month’s puzzle.)

“And I, [even] I Artaxerxes the king, do make a decree to all the treasurers which [are] beyond the river, that whatsoever Ezra the priest, the scribe of the law of the God of heaven, shall require of you, it be done speedily”

Please send any puzzle contributions [email protected] or as hard copy c/o the editors. Andrew Varney

Solution to February’s Puzzle Spot

Black should have played 1... Nf5! both protecting the pawn on g7 and threatening checkmate next move with 2... Rh4!! It is too late for White to reply with 2. Rg1?? to bring further pressure on g7, and neither does 2. B×g7?? prevent mate, while 2. R×g7? loses material such that White would now be winning. Very likely in the match a draw would have resulted from repetition of position after either 2. Kh2? Rh4+ 3. Kg1 etc, or 2. Rd8+? Kf7 3. Rd7+ etc. However, White does have one way to maintain the winning advantage. By playing 2. Bf6! White defends the mating square, and following 2... g×f6 3. Rg1+ Kf1 4. Rg4! White permanently blocks the threat and remains a rook for a knight up with a much stronger position.

Extra hint for this month’s puzzle: Letter of James!

BURLEIGH FARM Traditional Farmhouse Bed and Breakfast Accommodation

Contact Jane Cook – 01865 881352

Burleigh Farm, Burleigh Road, Cassington, Oxfordshire, OX29 4DZ

Visit www.oxfordcity.co.uk/accom/burleighfarm for more information

Yarnton Village Hall 200 Club Free to a good home!!

Winners of the draw on 27th January were: Drop-sided cot, with mattress and 2 fitted bottom sheets. Ideal for visiting grandchildren. Dismantles for easy 27 Mrs. B. Wareham 39 Mrs. C. MacPherson storage. Telephone Ruth Astall on 372637. 96 vacant number 83 Mrs. G. Walker

Yarnton Pre-School (formerly Yarnton Playgroup) Registered Charity No. 279278

“The quality of provision is outstanding” Ofsted Inspection Report 2010 Open to all 2 – 5 year olds (register from 12 months) Your highest ranked local charity Early Years provider. Don’t just take our word for it! Compare our report with others on www.ofsted.gov.uk. Working with William Fletcher Primary School, we are dedicated to providing the best possible early years care and education. Come meet our well qualified, experienced and friendly staff. Sessions for 3+ year-olds: Mon.– Fri. 8.45am – 11.45am Mon. & Wed. 11.45am – 3.00pm Sessions for under 3s: Mon, Wed, Thurs, Fri. 12.45pm – 3.00pm For more information contact Alison on School hours: 841327, Out of School Hours: email [email protected]

Don’t want to get the car out and drive over to Kidlington? Why not try our newly-developed store at Yarnton? You’ll be surprised by the number of offers we have and the range we stock - all on your doorstep without the hassle of the long queues at the supermarket. As your local store we do our best to ensure we have the right products for you, and where we haven’t, we will take your suggestions and try to get additional lines in.

Did you know that Budgens was voted best fresh produce retailer in 2010?

The Post Office is open as usual and the new team is there to serve all your needs.

Need your car washed? Why not try the latest state of the art car wash, or the Jet Wash if you prefer to do it yourself?

Feeling peckish and need something fresh made to order? Let the Sandwich Artists of Subway design your very own Sub made the way you like.

Jonathan, Malcolm and the team would like to thank you for your support so far and look forward to seeing you again soon.

The Spanish name for a computer!

A SPANISH Teacher was explaining to her class that in The women's group, however, concluded that computers Spanish, unlike English, nouns are designated as either should be masculine ('el computador'), because: masculine or feminine. 'House' for instance, is feminine: 'la 1. In order to do anything with them, you have to turn casa.' 'Pencil,' however, is masculine: 'el lapiz.' them on A student asked, 'What gender is 'computer'?' 2. They have a lot of data but still can't think for Instead of giving the answer, the teacher split the class themselves into two groups, male and female, and asked them to 3. They are supposed to help you solve problems, but half decide for themselves whether ‘computer' should be a the time they ARE the problem masculine or a feminine noun. Each group was asked to 4. As soon as you commit to one, you realize that if you had give four reasons for its recommendation. waited a little longer, you could have got a better model. The men's group decided that 'computer' should definitely be of the feminine gender ('la computadora'), because: The women won. 1. No one but their creator understands their internal logic 2. The native language they use to communicate with other computers is incomprehensible to everyone else 3. Even the smallest mistakes are stored in long term memory for possible later retrieval 4. As soon as you make a commitment to one, you find yourself spending half your salary on accessories for it.

Yarnton Village Hall

The hall comprises a large Main Hall, Back Room, and Committee Room. The hall is fully accessible - facilities K DOLTON PLASTERING include stage, kitchen, toilets with disabled facilities and car park. The hall is available for hire for meetings, training events, shows, lunches, clubs, sales, parties, Floor Screeding etc. Pebble Dashing The charges for hiring the Main Hall or Back Room are Free Estimates per hour unless stated. Village residents: £9

Regular bookings,village residents (minimum of 8 For all your plastering needs call bookings): £8 Keith on Non Village Residents: £10 Committee Room (max 12 people): £6 01865 450256 Kitchen: £8 per session A deposit of £100 is required when booking the hall. **Over 40 Years Experience & Reliable** For further information or to book the hall please contact Booking Secretary on 07948 722633

CHURCH DIARY (see also regular service times below) Tues. 8th Pancake Party Yarnton Village Hall (Tickets in advance please) Wed. 9th Ash Wednesday Holy Communion 9.30 a.m., St. Bartholomew’s 7.30 p.m., St. Michael’s, Begbroke Wed. 16th Lent Talks (see above) every Wednesday evening until 13th April, St. Bartholomew’s

REGULAR SERVICE TIMES (every week unless otherwise stated) The Church is open every day from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sundays 8 a.m. Holy Communion, Book of Common Prayer, at St. Bartholomew’s, Yarnton 11 a.m. Holy Communion, Common Worship, at St. Bartholomew’s, Yarnton Coffee after the service (on the 4th Sunday of each month we have a special Family Service) Weekday Services - Holy Communion Monday 7 p.m. St. Bartholomew’s, Yarnton Wednesday 9.30 a.m. St. Bartholomew’s. Yarnton Every day 8.50 a.m. Begbroke Priory Please ring the Priory the day before on 01865 855320

WEDDINGS If you wish to be married in St. Bartholomew’s, we will be happy to do all we can to make your day as special as possible. You are advised to contact Rev’d. Andrew Parkinson as soon as possible in your planning if you wish to be married in church.

BAPTISM Baptism is the sacrament by which we take the big step in the Christian life into full membership of the church. Anyone wishing to be baptised, or wanting to have their child baptised at St. Bartholomew’s should contact Rev’d. Andrew Parkinson.

Parish Priest: Revd. Andrew Parkinson, The Rectory, 26 Church Lane. tel. 375749 Churchwardens: Maureen Brown, 22 Dashwood Avenue, Yarnton, tel. 373578 Charlotte Rayner, tel. 849534

Senior Club

YARNTON MEDICAL PRACTICE Way back on 6th January we were able to have our New 163 Rutten Lane, Yarnton Year Tea Party. We were pleased to welcome many OX5 1LT friends, who during the last year supported our coach Telephone 379345 outings. Our entertainer was John Hunt, organ player, with his monkey (not real of course!). Three members Opening Hours celebrated their birthdays – Kath, Fred and myself. Many Monday 8.00 - 18.00 thanks were given to Ellen and Gina for their help serving Tuesday 8.30 - 18.00 tea, etc. and washing up. Our tables again looked lovely Wednesday 8.30 - 12.30 with flowers arranged by Sylvia. The afternoon ended with Thursday 8.30 - 18.00 a bumper raffle. Friday 8.30 - 12.30 Also in January we were pleased to have a response to our plea for a new Treasurer, Secretary, etc. so at our AGM we Diabetic & Asthma Clinics, are hoping the news will be great and the club can look Baby Immunisation Clinic forward again. We still would like more members, so, as – phone for appointment we have said before, come along and you will be made welcome. In January also we were saddened by the news Well Baby Clinic that two of our loyal members had passed away. First Les Thursdays 2.00 -3.00 Pinfold, who died suddenly - our sympathy was sent to his widow Barbara - and then Pansy Fitchett; this also was a shock to us all. We again expressed our sympathy to her husband Les. As our club dates seem to clash with the deadline of the Village News each month, apologies for our news being belated. Jose Green, tel. 375644

The Oxfordshire Museum, Woodstock

Museum Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday THE PLOUGH 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Last THE GREEN, UPPER WOLVERCOTE admission 4.45 p.m. Closed Mondays. Free Admission. Telephone 01993 811456. A LA CARTE RESTAURANT/BAR MEALS/DAILY SPECIALS FAMILIES WELCOME. DISABLED FACILITIES. New Children’s Dinosaur Gallery now open. Exciting FUNCTION ROOM AVAILABLE FOR ALL TYPES OF PARTIES/ MEETINGS new interactives, dinosaur puppets, dinosaur dressing up FREE OF CHARGE (CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS APPLY) clothes, and much more! FRESH FOOD SERVED EVERY DAY INCLUDING SUNDAY EVENING Garden Gallery: 8th January - 6th March - Holograms II. SENIORS MENU MONDAY TO SATURDAY An exhibition in spectacular 3D by leading holographic COME AND SEE US – WE ARE AN INDEPENDENT PUB, artists. ESTABLISHED YEARS th th 13 12 March – 10 April. The Unspoken Word. Stunning textile exhibition by the Odyssey group of artists. TELEPHONE 01865 556969 Brewhouse Gallery: 12th March – 10th April. Among the WWW.THEPLOUGHOXFORD.CO.UK

Sweet Green Fields: Art and the Turning Year. An exhibition of pastoral art by children with autism and learning disabilities. Inspired by the landscape of West Wendy Bunning Oxfordshire and featuring paintings and photographs. Garden. Beautiful stainless steel sculpture by Mike Paul and family would like to say thank you to everyone Bigland plus Daren Greenhow’s metal wall sculptures. for all the help and kind words, generosity and support Allium seedheads and other plant forms enhance the that we have received at this difficult time since Wendy's museum flowerbeds and a lizard, dragonfly and butterfly passing. This has been much appreciated and a great sit on the garden walls. All for sale. comfort to us all. Thank you. Museum Shop and Café Tea, coffee, wine, beer and soft drinks, light snacks and • lunches • Specialising in local, organic and Fair Trade products • Tables on decking for use during warm weather • Lawned garden with seating – full wheelchair access to whole site • Organic soaps • Lots of lovely Dinosaur gifts, clothing and games • Fair Trade wrapping paper • Greetings cards • Designer jewellery • 5* award from Scores on the Doors

The Circus

At the beginning of term the we had a Circus week in school. The circus people gave a massively amazing time to William Fletcher School. The PTA is to be thanked because of this good opportunity for young children to learn new tricks and skills. Everyone in school looked fantastic in their costumes. Everyday all the children learned how to do stilt walking, plate spinning, Diablo, flower sticks, tight-rope walking , juggling, feather balancing and many other things. At the end of the week we put on a show to show off what we had learnt. After the show everyone was filled with joy from doing amazing things. It has affected the children a lot; we now practice Diablo and plate spinning at play time.

Life Bus

The life bus was happy to come and visit William Fletcher school again. Year 6 had their last time on the Life Bus; they were given a gold star badge because it was their last visit. The whole school went on the bus to learn how to keep healthy.

The dearest Mr. Laybourn

We would like to let you know that Mr. Laybourn is retiring in July. So we are now looking for someone to take charge of William Fletcher School. Mr. Laybourn had tears in his eyes and all the teachers are sad as well.

School Crossing

The school still does not have a crossing patrol person and people have been kindly stopping, in their cars, to allow children to cross. However this has led to some children almost being knocked down as cars overtake the stopped car. We have been advised by the police that stopping in the road is not advisable. Please help the children get into to school safely by driving within the speed limit, and parking sensibly on the roads around the school.

ALAN WHITLEY PAINTER AND DECORATOR City and Guilds Qualified Over 35 years experience

Interior and Exterior Wallpapering No job too small

For Free Estimates contact: Phone: 01865460179 or 07906301589 Email: [email protected] 5 Merton Way, Yarnton

Kidlington Bowls Club

Our Skittles Night went off very well, with plenty of good humour and banter, and the fish and chip supper was enjoyed by all. Our fortnightly short mat sessions are continuing and provide us with an enjoyable winter competition. Over the last 2 years we have held taster evenings for any clubs in the region who would like to visit us and try their hand at the game of bowls. It is surprising that many people have no idea that there is a bowls green behind the hedge adjacent the Kidlington Health Centre near Exeter Hall. Kidlington Bowls Club’s policy is to widen its appeal to as many people as we can, and our taster sessions with other organisations have had the benefit of opening people’s eyes to the pleasures that can be had by taking part in the sport of flat green bowling. If any organisation is interested in doing something different, we would be pleased to try and fit in an evening where our members would show you the rudiments of the game and try a few ends to see how you get on. This invitation is not restricted to organised clubs only, any individual is welcome. If you are interested in exploring the game and the good company of our members, give our Hon Sec., Chris Weller, a call on 371374. Clive Taylor, Press Officer, tel. 376783

St. Thomas More Catholic Church, Kidlington St. Hugh of Lincoln Catholic Church, Woodstock Parish Priest: Fr. Christopher Greaney, B.A., S.T.B.

Times of Mass St. Thomas More Saturday Vigil 6 p.m. Sunday 11 a.m. Due to the ill health of Father Chris, the 8.15 a.m. Mass is suspended until further notice. Weekdays Tuesday 9.30 a.m. (please note change of time) Wednesday 9.30 a.m. Thursday 9.30 a.m. Friday 12 noon Saturday 10 a.m. St. Hugh of Lincoln Sunday 9.30 a.m. Wednesday 12 noon Sacrament of Reconciliation, Kidlington, Saturdays 10.30 a.m. - 11 a.m., 5.15 p.m. - 5.45 p.m., or any time at call. Baptism and Marriage by appointment.

Young children go into the sacristy for part of the 11 a.m. Sunday Mass to celebrate their own liturgy. Coffee is served after the 9.30 a.m. Sunday Mass at St. Hugh and after the 11 a.m. Mass at St. Thomas More. St. Thomas More Primary School is next to the Catholic Church in Kidlington. If you would like your child to Yarnton Gardening Club attend this school, please contact Fr. Chris on 377093, or the Headteacher Mrs. M. Buller on 373674. A mini- bus collects from surrounding villages. Living in an area surrounded by fields, some of them

ancient meadows, we all have an opportunity to enjoy wild flowers, so our next talk by Peter Sheasby entitled ‘British Wild Flowers’ should be of great interest. The meeting is on Thursday 17th March, Yarnton Village Hall, at 7.30 p.m. The tea/coffee host/hostesses for March are: Francis Trevett, Melanie Wakefield, Julie Walters and Beryl Wareham. April’s team is Jenny Watts, K Weitzel, Michael and Sheila Westall. If you are unable to be present, please find a replacement. Helen Anderson

PELLMANS Solicitors 1 Abbey Street, Eynsham, Oxon, OX29 4TB

YOUR LOCAL SOLICITORS!

• Divorce and Family Law – Finances, Children and Cohabitation Disputes • Residential Property including Home Information Packs at cost • Wills, Probate, Trusts and Inheritance Tax Planning • Elderly Client Advice • Business and Employment Law • Commercial Property and Agriculture

Home Visits and Evening Appointments Available

Tel: 01865 884400 Fax: 01865 884411

e-mail: [email protected]

Woodstock Methodist Church, Oxford Street, Woodstock Kidlington Methodist Church, Oxford Road, Kidlington Minister: The Revd. Jonathan Todd, tel. 01865 842214, Email: [email protected] Lay Worker: Malcolm Bromhal, tel. 01865 373958, Email: [email protected] Web: www.woodstockmethodists.org.uk, www.kidlingtonmethodistchurch.co.uk

There are no Methodist churches in Yarnton, but you will find one in both Woodstock and Kidlington. Details of our forthcoming services are below, but there are also various midweek activities, details of which can be found on the appropriate website. Everyone is welcome to come and join us at any time.

Services in March

Woodstock Every Friday we meet at 9.30 a.m. for a short informal time 6th 8.30 a.m. Rev. Jonathan Todd of prayer followed by coffee. On the third Friday of the (Holy Communion) month, this incorporates a celebration of communion. All 10:30 a.m. Ralph Waller welcome! 13th 10:30 a.m. Mike Trinder 20th 10:30 a.m. Rev. Jonathan Todd Kidlington (Café Church) 6th 10 a.m. Malcolm Bromhall 27th 10.30 a.m. Rev. Dr. Martin Wellings 13th 10 a.m. Neville Shepherd (Holy Communion) 20th 10 a.m. Rev. Jean King (Holy Communion) We also have a Junior Church which meets every week at 27th 10 a.m. Graham Kirby 10.30 a.m. and ranges in age from two to early teens. The first part of the morning is shared with the adults in The Kidlington church also runs a Junior Church and church before we then go round to the church hall to share crèche on Sunday mornings. in our own activities. We are always delighted to see new members, whether with or without their parents!

Aquarius Plumbing Abingdon Air and Country Charity Show Tel: 01865 513058. Mob: 07984 121743 Sunday 8th May, Abingdon Airfield, Dalton Barracks Email: enquiries@aquariusplumbingltd Web: http://www.aquariusplumbingltd.com The event will once more be supporting the RAF Benson- Free estimates based Thames Valley & Chiltern Air Ambulance, a No job too small Charitable Trust which relies wholly on public donations. This, our 12th show, will follow the successful format of Domestic Plumbing Work - Domestic Electrical Work previous years, with plenty to see both on the ground and Wall Tiling - Floor Tiling – Plastering - Loft Insulation in the air. Among the highlights of the three-hour flying Environmentally friendly upgrades display will be the Tigers crack parachute display team, Reliable and honest and aerobatics by the ever-popular Swift Glider Team. Local to Yarnton Both UK and overseas military participation has been requested. Flying display aircraft should be available for inspection on the ground during the day and the United States Army in Europe have once again pledged their support with their UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter. A wide range of classic vehicles is expected, including cars NOW UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT - with up to 300 locally produced MGs - motorbikes, commercial and ex-military types and steam engines. For the younger visitors there will be a miniature railway and

Yarnton Garage Ltd miniature double-decker bus offering rides throughout the Unit 27 Chancerygate Business Centre, day. Other attractions for younger visitors will include the Kidlington timeless classic Punch and Judy, as well a wide selection of Oxford amusements and rides. OX5 1FQ Live music will be provided by local rock musician Rick Chase and there will be other musical acts to maintain Email: [email protected] variety. There will be a full range of on-site caterers Telephone: 01865 374487 (including the Wychwood Brewery travelling bar) and shopping opportunities will be available at a varied At your local Yarnton Garage we offer you a selection of Craft/Farmers Market and general trade stalls. friendly, fast and reliable service. Admission costs have been kept at the 2010 level, hopefully allowing as many people as possible to join us All makes of cars serviced and repaired, MOTs and enjoy a fantastic day. Advance tickets are available to arranged. order now from our website www.abingdonfayre.com and over the counter at the following locations: Engine diagnostics, Air conditioning service and Abingdon Information Centre repairs. Wantage Information Centre (Vale and Downlands Museum) All at competitive prices, 10% discount for OAPs Princes Risborough Tourist Information Centre Abingdon Warehouse (near Coxeters) Didcot Information Centre Adrian, Kevin and Lorraine Wallingford Tourist Information Centre are waiting to hear from you. A limited localised shuttle bus will run from locations around Abingdon town centre to the airfield; route(s) to be confirmed. This service, for a small fee, has been arranged in conjunction with Rural Carriages of Chilton, near Didcot. Please check our website for up-to-date details or telephone 01235 529142/07769 689823 for more information. We look forward to seeing you at the show! Colin Smith

Woodstock U3A - The University of the Third Age YARNTON & DISTRICT DECORATORS Woodstock U3A meets monthly at the Marlborough School Professional service, City & Guilds Qualified Woodstock every 1st Tuesday at 2 p.m. It is almost 100 Over 34 Years Experience strong and currently has 17 interest groups, all of which meet regularly: Ambling, Battles and Battlefields, Books, Bridge, Discussion, Lunch Group, Madrigal Singing, Needle Craft, Lace Making, Living History, Painting and Drawing, Play Reading (2 groups), Poetry for Pleasure, Recorders, Scrabble and Walking. Many References available U3A is a nationwide organisation set up for older people Many satisfied Customers not in full-time employment, who wish to meet socially Family Run Business - Trustworthy - Reliable and become involved in a wealth of different interest Specialising in paper-hanging groups. Monthly meetings generally last about 2 hours, Exteriors and interiors undertaken and include a guest speaker. No job too big or small Our speaker in March is David Gilbert on ‘Codes and Ciphers, Caesar to Enigma’. FREE QUOTES - NO HIDDEN EXTRAS An ideal opportunity to meet new friends, socialise, pick 10% DISCOUNT TO SENIOR CITIZENS up a new hobby or interest or just meet friends once a As always, the customer comes first month. New members and visitors are always welcome, and Chairman John Turvey will be delighted to hear from Contact: 01865 373533 any prospective members. [email protected] Contact for further information: John Turvey, 01993 The Gables Yarnton 812806, or Patrick Fitz-Gibbon, 01869 347238, e-mail: [email protected] We look forward to hearing from you and thank all our previous customers, and look forward to welcoming new