Colerne Parish Magazine

Colerne Parish Magazine,January January 2020 2020 1

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The Parish Church of St John the Baptist, Colerne A member of the Lidbrook Group of Churches Priest-in-Charge Revd Dr Janet Anderson-MacKenzie The Vicarage, Church Lane, Box, Wilts SN13 8NR Tel. 01225 744458 Email: [email protected] Ministry Team Revd Clair Southgate Mrs Margaret Edmonds Churchwardens Rob Featherstone, 47 Round Barrow Close, SN14 8EF Tel: 01225 743044 Email: [email protected] Lavinia Wilson, Vale Court, Colerne, SN14 8EL Tel: 01225 742417 Email: [email protected] For enquiries to hire the Parish Church for a community event, contact the Churchwardens To arrange a Baptism, contact Rodney Priest To arrange a Marriage, contact Celia Batterham [email protected] or 01225 742042 [email protected] or 01225 744809 To arrange a Funeral or make an application for a churchyard memorial, contact Ray Barker, [email protected] or 01225 743402 or 07768 500684 Website www.colerneparishchurch.org.uk

Magazine Committee Lavinia Wilson, Peter Wilson, Celia Batterham Magazine distribution: Rosemary Sadler (742531) To advertise in the Magazine, please contact Celia Batterham, Washmere Farm, Washmeres, Colerne SN14 8DQ (744809) Email: [email protected]

Notice to Advertisers and Contributors If you are thinking of submitting an article for possible inclusion in the Magazine please contact Peter Wilson ([email protected]) well in advance of the copy deadline date of 10th of the month prior to the month of publication to ensure that space will be available. If copy is submitted at the last moment we cannot guarantee inclusion. Copy should be submitted by email to the above address. The same applies to those wishing to advertise in the Magazine but in this case please contact Celia Batterham as above. FLOODLIGHTING Anyone wishing to arrange for the Church Floodlighting to be turned on should contact Derek or Julie Burgess at 12 Eastrip Lane; by telephoning 743999 or 07470 031062 or emailing [email protected]

Cover illustration: Photograph by Peter Wilson

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LINK

R. J. Hill & Son Ltd (Est. 1955) Box, Colerne Traditional Family Butchers & Rudloe Payment Cards now accepted Our Good Neighbours’ Beef, Lamb, Pork etc Organisation Bacon & Cooked Meats for anyone in need of help Home-made Sausages & Burgers Personal Service, Parking facilities Just ring and ask Suppliers to Colerne May Fair Tel: 07970 617617 and Colerne Bonfire Night Monday – Friday 9.00am–5.00pm LOCAL DELIVERIES MADE Market Place, Box www.boxlink.org.uk Tel: 01225 742312

Allington Bar Farm, Karen Sayers Limited Chippenham, SN14 6LJ Tel: 01249 658112

Chartered Accountants Open 7 days 9.00am – 6.00pm Mon – Sat Specialising in small businesses & 10.00am – 5.00pm Sundays and the self employed Quality Local Produce Self assessment tax returns Home produced Pork, Lamb, Beef & Goat Limited Company statutory accounts Home-made Sausages & Burgers Sole trader accounts Local Free Range Poultry VAT returns All available daily from our Butchery Payroll and bookkeeping Locally made Preserves, Chutneys & Pickles Tel: 01225 744355 Somerset Jersey Organic Milk & Cream Email: [email protected] Local Cheeses & Home Cooked Meats 29 Silver Street, Colerne Extensive range of Local Ice Cream

Locally Grown Fresh Fruit & Vegetables Home-made Cakes & Pies and many more local ingredients . . .

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WHAT’S ON IN THE PARISH IN JANUARY

1 Wednesday 8.00pm RBL First Wednesday Social Evening, Liberal Club 7 Tuesday 10.00am Tuesday Tramp from The Fox & Hounds (see page 31) 9 Thursday 7.45pm Colerne Gardening Club, Village Hall (see below) 14 Tuesday 7.00pm Film Night – Downton Abbey (PG) (see back page) 16 Thursday 10.30am Sparkles in Church 7.30pm WI Meeting, Village Hall (see below) 17 Friday 1.45pm Shine in Church 23 Thursday 7.30pm WI Quiz, Village Hall (see below) 7.30pm CLT Group meeting, Liberal Club (see page 29) 25 Saturday SATURDAY MARKET (see page 23) 2.00pmVillage Hall Open Afternoon (see page 7) RBL Burns Night Supper, Fox & Hounds (see page 29)

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Feb 11 Film Night – The Good Liar (15) (see back page) Mar 5 Action Medical Research Soup ‘n’ Spud Lunch 10 Film Night – Knives Out (12A) (see back page) 26 Public meeting to launch Colerne CLT (see page 29)

For Liberal Club events see pages 12 and 34

Colerne Gardening Club Thursday, 9th January – 7.45pm for 8.00pm, Village Hall Come with us and escape from winter Wiltshire to ‘The Gardens of Japan’ with our enthusiastic and knowledgeable lecturer, Nick Wray from the Bristol University Botanic Garden. Exquisite and different, this garden will give you a thought-provoking and stimulating start to the gardening year. Enjoy this fascinating talk and meet our friendly members as we start a year of exciting visits and interesting lectures. You don’t need to be an expert, everyone is welcome: £3 for visitors, including a cup of tea, table sale and raffle.

Colerne WI Thursday, 16th January – 7.30pm, Village Hall Nikki Brown, a qualified archery coach based in Bath, will be visiting us to talk about Woodland Archery. It is a sport that can be enjoyed by all ages and we may be inspired to try it out for ourselves. Nikki will also talk about Leather Craft. She will be bringing some of the items she has made to show us and possibly to sell. Don’t forget our annual WI Quiz, to be held on 23rd January at 7.30pm in the Village Hall. Ask friends to join you in making up teams of up to four members. Quizzing may be even more enjoyable as you share a glass of wine.

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Your child at the heart of our village Colerne Old School Playgroup offers a nurturing and enriched home from home environment where children feel comfortable, relaxed and secure. Our children learn through play, exploration and quality interactions with our experienced team of early years educators – every child is welcomed and respected as an individual, with child-centred activities tailored to meet the different stages of their development and own unique interests.  Close links with the community and Colerne Primary School  Weekly Rising 5s, Outdoor Explorers, and In2Sports sessions  Funded places available for eligible two, three and four-year-olds  Stay & Play summer sessions during the summer holidays  We're open term-time Monday to Thursday 9.00am – 3.00pm and Friday 9.00am – 1.00pm. Arrange a visit to meet our friendly team and take a tour around our learning space! Colerne Old School Playgroup Vicarage Lane, Colerne, SN14 8EL Tel: 01225 744885 Email: [email protected]

BOX Pharmacy 17 Forrester Green, Colerne Wiltshire Friendly and Reliable Local Builders 10 High Street, with over 25 years’ Experience Box – Loft and Garage Conversions – Extensions, Flooring and Roofing Prescription Delivery Service If you are disabled, housebound or unable to – UPVC Windows and Doors inc Double collect your prescriptions, etc, arrangements can -glazed Units and Lock Replacement be made for your order to be delivered to you by our – Conservatories and Porches door-to-door delivery service. – Kitchens, Bathrooms and Wetrooms Telephone 01225 742552 for further details Free Quotation Fully Insured View Previous Clients’Work Online Tel: 01225 742474 Mobile: 07795 053351 www.sfchomeimprovements.co.uk

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SERVICES FOR JANUARY 5th THE EPIPHANY 12th 1st SUNDAY after EPIPHANY 9.30am All Age Communion 9.30am Sung Eucharist 6.00pm Evensong 6.00pm Rejoice and Praise 19th 2nd SUNDAY after EPIPHANY 26th 3rd SUNDAY after EPIPHANY 8.00am BCP Holy Communion 9.30am Parish Eucharist 9.30am Family service 6.00pm Taizé Evening Service 6.00pm Evensong

Every Thursday there will be a Book of Common Prayer Holy Communion Service at 9.45am followed by tea/coffee and cake, except on 26th December FROM THE REGISTERS BAPTISM 1st December Olivia Karen Jean BRZEZICKI FUNERAL 20th November David John KILGOUR

Colerne Village Hall Association To celebrate Village Halls Week 2020 the Village Hall Management Committee will be holding an open afternoon at the Village Hall on Saturday, 25th January, 2.00 until 4.00pm. Regular Users groups have been invited to display information about their activities and there will be a presentation showing the Hall’s achievements over the years. The refurbished Denys Sargent Room will be open and we will be providing free tea/ coffee and biscuits throughout the afternoon. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the Village Hall and all the regular activities that take place within it. If you are interested in starting a group/activity within the village then come along and see the superb facilities on offer.

Charity for the Month With this New Year we are supporting the Corsham Churches Foodbank, which was launched in May 2011, and is an independent organisation, and has no paid employees, only volunteers. We have a food donation collection point in the Village, but we have decided to support the Foodbank with donations as well. A display can be found at the back of Church, and the Charity Stall at the next Saturday Market will be in aid of this cause. Margaret Edmonds Colerne Parish Magazine, January 2020 7

WE WOULD LIKE TO WISH YOU ALL

A HAPPY NEW YEAR!

As always, we strive to be Colerne’s dedicated estate agent having sold more property than any other agent in the village every year since opening our doors in 2005.

For a free no obligation valuat

Corsham Officeto 01249get in 715775touch.ion, please don’t hesitate BathDevizes Office Office 0122501380 722784 444454 Frome Office 01373 464040 Tetbury Office 01666 505068

[email protected] www.hunterfrench.co.uk

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Obituary Doris Taylor 1924 – 2019 Doris May Taylor, née Crittenden, died in the afternoon of 30th November 2019 in the care home in Braintree, Essex, in which she had lived for the last six years. Her health had been deteriorating recently and she passed away peacefully with her daughter, son-in-law, grandsons and many of her family at her bedside. She was well into her 96th year. She was born in Chatham, Kent on 8th May 1924 into a family which had been associated with farming over many generations and which had never strayed from Kent. Things changed with the 1930s depression, when the farm had to be sold and Doris’s father moved his family to pastures new. In 1942 Doris joined the Women’s Royal Naval Service (Wrens) and, after several postings, ended up at the Royal Naval Air Station at Eastleigh in Hampshire where she met her future husband John Taylor, who was a physical training instructor on the base. Victory Day in Europe coincided with Doris’s 21st birthday and so created a doubly memorable special day for her. Doris and John married later in 1945. John worked, after demobilisation, as a cargo supervisor in London docks, and their daughter, Pauline, was born within the sound of Bow bells on 16th March 1947. The Taylor family moved to Dagenham shortly afterwards. For some years Doris worked for the Post Office. After retiring, she and John became frequent visitors to her brother John’s family home in Colerne, and in 1986 the Taylors bought the house at 12 Forrester Green where they lived until John died in 1993. Doris continued to live there until she moved to Braintree in 2013. Doris and John loved living in Wiltshire and in Colerne, and took part in village activities. Doris will be particularly remembered for the quizzes she prepared for popular Village Hall evenings; she was also heavily involved in the Colerne Women’s Institute, being the secretary for some years. She was also a helper at the Thrift Shop and the Luncheon Club, becoming a member and enjoying the meals when helping in the kitchen became beyond her. A Service of Remembrance will be held at the Parish Church of St John the Baptist, Colerne at a date and time to be arranged. This will be followed by an interment of ashes in the Garden of Remembrance. It is hoped that many of Doris’s friends will be able to attend. (Date to be announced in due course). John Crittenden

Alan Coyle It is with great sadness that Chris, Sue and Pam announce that their beloved Dad, Alan Coyle, passed peacefully away on Sunday, 17th November. There was a private cremation in Dorset on 6th December. Alan will be returned to Colerne for his memorial service at 11.30am on Friday, 31st January in the Church of St John the Baptist, Colerne, where his ashes will be interred with his late wife, Joan. A wake in memory of him will follow in the Fox & Hounds straight after the service. Pam Rose

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You can access My Wiltshire via your internet browser on your desktop/laptop or by downloading the mobile app onto your smartphone or tablet. You can use My Wiltshire to contact the Council about issues in your area. If you register for an account you will receive updates on the progress of your report. As the dark nights draw in across Wiltshire and winter really starts to bite, it’s worth If you prefer not to register you can submit reports anonymously but will not receive thinking about how we can all make sure we’re looking after ourselves and staying well progress updates. over the cold winter months. These are just some of the issues you can report using My Wiltshire: The NHS recently launched its annual winter campaign – Help Us Help You – which is here to help make it easier to understand the things you can do. Here are some handy tips to see you through until spring:

The free flu vaccination is offered to those who are at increased risk from the effects of flu, including people aged 65 and over, pregnant women, those with underlying health conditions and children aged 2–10.

If you’re unsure where to go and think you need urgent medical attention, but it’s not life-threatening, contacting NHS 111 can help.

Community pharmacists are qualified healthcare professionals who can offer clinical The Ladies’ public conveniences in Quarry Lane have been refurbished. advice and over-the-counter medicines to safely manage things like coughs, colds and sore throats.

If you need to see a GP, but find it hard to find the time during routine hours, appointments with a GP, nurse or other healthcare professional are often available in the evenings and at weekends through many local practices or other local NHS services.

For more information about services in your area visit: www.wiltshireccg.nhs.uk/local-services

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M W Bayfield Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering (reg. plumber) In need of Building Plans? Plumbing, Heating, Gas & Solar Installations and Maintenance

2 High Street Colerne Contact Colerne based John Phillips SN14 8DB Tel no. 07973 509928 Email: [email protected] Tel. 01225 743315 Mob. 07903 087862 www.buildplans.co.uk Email – [email protected] Web Site – www.bayfieldplumbing.co.uk

Colerne Liberal Club – 22 High Street

The Liberal Club Triathlon  Saturday, 1st February from 8.00am onwards  Come and support Andy and Jenny with their amazing, arduous and unbelievable fund-raising challenge as they cycle, run and row for ten hours non-stop. All proceeds to help towards the refurbishment of the upstairs Games Room. Energy-giving tea, coffee and cake available for spectators. Raffle at 7.00pm followed by a disco with DJ F.A.B. to finish the night. Thank you to all for your continuing support of the Liberal Club – a community resource in the heart of the village. Bookmark the Club's website at http://www.libclubcolerne.co.uk for all the latest updates – also on Facebook's Colerne Community Pages

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Grounds for Optimism – Chapter XXX Kisubi, South of Kampala, Uganda, Wednesday, 8th February 2017, noon Syrrie turned his comfortable Japanese car off the Entebbe road a few miles short of the airport and we drove up the gentle tree-lined slope into Kisubi catholic mission campus. It now has a handsome church for the whole community; primary and secondary schools; brothers’ and sisters’ houses with nearby graveyards, and most recently the flourishing University of Kibungo (UNIK) where I was to give a workshop to trainee science teachers. We parked in front of the science block and, after rapid thanks and farewell to Syrrie, hurrying back to a business meeting, I was met in the foyer by prominent posters inviting all to attend my ‘Science through Coffee’ workshop at 8.00am that morning. Oh dear! It was now lunchtime. While enjoying a relaxing family evening with Geraldine and Syrrie I should have been checking arrangements with young Gyaviira my fixer here at UNIK. He is a protegé of Professor Jean Johnson of Edgbaston, former headmistress and chief A-level examiner. For 20 years she has set up chemistry labs and exam systems in Uganda with money from our Royal Society of Chemistry in Britain. Of course I was expecting and deserving a ‘right royal’ ticking off and looks of disapproval for being out of contact but, when ’phone calls had failed to locate me, Gyaviira and Dean of Education Denis Rwelamila had rejigged everyone’s timetables and put me on from 2.00 until 5.00pm with continuation the next morning. We quickly set up the iron wool absorbing oxygen experiment ready for the morrow and got stuck into roasting compared with burning the beans, grinding and percolating and the physical and chemical reasons for each successive process. Some keen delegates, aspiring A-level teachers perhaps, stayed on to discuss caffeine’s molecular structure before we dispersed to resume in the morning. My room at the brothers’ was fine apart from an ill-fitting window in the bathroom. Ferocious mosquitoes from nearby Lake Victoria were after my blood. There was no point trying to sleep so I got up and prepared the rest of the workshop meticulously. I was determined to redeem myself from yesterday’s near calamity caused by my tardiness and show how grateful I was for being rescued by quick thinking and tolerance. Overnight in the heat, the absence of oxygen in the air trapped above water and in contact with rusting iron was conclusive. This exhausted air extinguished burning splints most satisfactorily, leading nicely into oxygen as one of four ‘enemies’ of coffee along with moisture, too high a temperature and too long time. The message was clear: buy small amounts, keep the lid on, keep it cool and use it fast to avoid meaty, mammalian, oxidised flavours. After contrasting stimulant caffeine with nervous depressant alcohol, I gave the 32 delegates a full pedagogical hour. We discussed how to pick other industries besides coffee to illustrate essential chemical concepts and how to tap into the wisdom of the experienced teachers they would meet on teaching observation and practice. We finished with Gyaviira organising a survey of how and why this cohort of trainees got interested and involved in science teaching. Recruitment and retention of teachers is a challenge in many countries and teaching is not the only profession facing difficulties, so I was interested to know of the East African situation first-hand. Only one delegate missed the second part of my disjointed presentation. The other 31 received their attendance certificates. Final year students among them eagerly awaited the afternoon’s graduation ceremony. Next month – the singing, dancing nun! Rodney Priest

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The IRON lady HAZELBURY HEALTH PRACTICE We offer Homoeopathy and Kenshin Anma Shiatsu

Kenshin Anma Shiatsu is a wonderfully relaxing and energising form of massage therapy which is very ancient, For regular orders or one-off backlog predating even Shiatsu, and works to rebalance the entire system. Kenshin means ‘essence of health’, and Anma clearance. means ‘spreading peace with the hands’. It is performed Professional and flexible service in a fully clothed and lasts 75 minutes. Anma is non-diagnostic and is not recommended for pregnant women or smoke- and odour-free environment. cancer patients. Please call Gilly for prices and further details. Laurent and Susan Lacroix hold diplomas in Anma from Anma France. Susan is also Free collection and delivery within a registered homoeopath and counsellor and offers Colerne. consultations and sessions. Mobile: 07810 248408 HAZELBURY HEALTH PRACTICE Home: 01225 744611 HAZELBURY MANOR, BOX, WILTSHIRE SN13 8HX TEL: 01225 810644

Made to Measure Curtains, Blinds & Accessories

Wide range of Quality Fabrics 10 St. Martins Park Marshfield Chippenham Measuring & Fitting Service Wiltshire SN14 8PQ Over 30 years’ experience Tel: 01225 891844 Mob: 07778 045753 Web: www.fabricandflair.co.uk

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The Parish Giving Scheme (A Simple Way to Give) Did you know that all UK Parish Churches get no money at all from the Government? Did you know that all costs – eg: our Priest-in-Charge, Revd Janet, our organist, the maintenance of the building, the utility bills, repairs, servicing, etc – have to be found from the giving of the parishioners or from fund raising. You might be amazed to learn that it costs around £50,000 per year, ie £1000 per week, to keep the Church open. We are so grateful to all who have supported our various giving schemes over many years, and those who have left a legacy for Colerne Parish Church in their Will. Thanks to those who give, we are able to maintain the building and enjoy the services of Revd Janet, who we share with Box and Hazelbury, Ditteridge and Chapel Plaister, and who is here to lead or oversee all our baptisms, weddings and funerals as well as our 15 regular Services each month. She works closely with the Primary School, which is a Church of England (Voluntary Controlled) school and in addition to her visible role, she is available to any of us with spiritual or pastoral needs, and is an enthusiastic supporter of our Food Bank support work, our Christian Aid Collection and many other church-led activities. We feel that Revd Janet and the joy of having our own Parish Church are worth every penny of the funding they require, but each year we hope and pray that we will be able to cover all our costs. Partly to address the growing funding challenge faced by local churches, a nationwide Church of England initiative has been introduced over the last few years to make it easier for ALL in the Parish to give. It is called The Parish Giving Scheme, and Colerne Parish Church joined the scheme last year. It is a professional donation management and Gift Aid service, which reduces the burden of work on parish volunteers and provides a professional service to our donors. In brief, donors complete a simple direct debit form and commit to donating say £3, £5 or £10 per month. It includes an option to index link donations to inflation, which helps to maintain the real value of the gift over the years. Many of us are now used to this way of giving and find it easier to select causes and charities close to our hearts, set up the direct debit and then just relax, knowing that our little bit added to everyone else’s little bit makes a huge difference in the life of our communities. We know that the Parish Church holds a special place at the heart of our community. Many of us have been Christened, married or have loved ones buried in the Churchyard. Many of us benefit from the Children’s Activities: Sparkles, Shine or the Light Party. Many of us love the Village Christmas Carol Service or the Festival Services led by the Primary School children at Easter, Harvest and Christmas. So much of the work of our Church is gladly done by volunteers, but we do have to cover our costs. So, if you think you could contribute a little, through The Parish Giving Scheme, do contact us via email ([email protected]) or pick up a form at the back of the Church. Thank you so much. Colerne PCC (Parochial Church Council)

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P & R Chimney Sweeps

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Colerne After CASE & TROTMAN LTD School Club Ltd Colerne

Ofsted Registered URN: EY494696 GENERAL BUILDERS Fully Qualified Staff with years of experience in child care Collection from Colerne Primary School Most aspects of work undertaken Variety of activities for all age groups Very competitive prices  Extensions, Roofing We are open  Loft Conversions Monday to Friday: 7.30–8.30am  Carpentry for Breakfast Club  Brick & Stonework After School Club hours are:  Timber & Damp Proofing Monday to Thursday: 3.25–6.00pm and Fridays: 1.30–4.30pm  PVC Flat Roofing Systems

Please contact: FREE ESTIMATES Jemma on 07446 447541 or Bev on 07881 367022 or email [email protected] Liability & Contract Insured see our Facebook page Colerne After School Club Ltd Telephone: 01225 743271 Mobile: 07971 553256 Email: [email protected]

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Back to the Alps – 1 The first day was a respectable six hours’ hike that took in the lovely Krumbacher High Route, which runs Day 1 – I love the Alps, particularly the area located some 110 miles southwest of along the side of the Munich known as the Allgäu Alps. This mountainous region bulges southwards from the mountain chain at a fairly picture postcard town of Oberstdorf in Germany and is surrounded on all but its open even level (around 2000m). flank to the north by Austria. The walking and climbing routes along the ridges and peaks The finishing point was straddle the border between the two countries and the range merges into the Lechtal Alps the Mindelheimer Hut in Austria to the east and south. The mountains rise to 2656m and can be both stunningly (2013m); a traditional and beautiful as well as challenging. For me, they place life in a different physical and spiritual modest hut by some context, reminding me of the power and wonder of nature and of our creator. standards – with 120 bed spaces in dormitories – but in others a leader in technology with solar Oberstdorf panels for electricity, filters for water and an environmentally friendly waste disposal unit. A FINISH cross, strategically placed as a focus for outdoor worship, served, to me, as a reminder of who is in control. From that vantage point, I later watched the sun go down before settling down to a START pleasant evening in the hut. I had been allocated a bed space in a row of eleven narrow, abutting mattresses in what appeared to be an empty eleven-person dormitory. However,

Kemptner Hut

Waltenberger Haus

Rappensee Hut

Mindelheimer Hut

on retiring to bed I found that a 10-strong, all-female, organised walking group had moved into the room. We overcame that but it was not a good night. The mattresses were ridiculously narrow and far too cramped to permit sleep; tinned sardines My ambition in 2019 was to climb new peaks and try out some new huts. I drew up an would have been less cramped! I vacated my mattress in the early hours of the morning anti-clockwise route that started and finished at Oberstdorf and broadly followed the line and whiled away the time in the empty cafeteria before watching the sun rise across of the border. Over six days of walking and climbing I spent five nights in mountain huts, the valley to the east. I made a mental note to avoid, as far as possible, huts with which were typically at altitudes of between 1900 and 2100m. I was self-sufficient with dormitory-only places! Michael Brzezicki the exception of food, which was available in the huts. The overall distance covered was about 40 miles, with some 4334m of ascent and 5140m of descent (the altitude profile of To be continued next month each day’s walk is shown as a ‘watermark’ in the sections below).

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Reflections This is what I wrote at the beginning of my ‘Reflections’ this time last year, in December 2018: Rarely in peacetime can a year have started with so much uncertainty being felt by so many people in our country about the direction in which we are heading; as things seem to change from hour to hour with various personalities expounding their views on the dreaded subject of, dare I mention it, Brexit. As far as one can gather from a viewpoint in early December 2018 from letters to the editor of a national newspaper, a majority of the British people seem to be saying, “For goodness sake get on with it!” Well, now we have progressed all the way to a General Election. The last election held so late in the year was on Thursday, 6th December 1923, when the Conservatives led by Stanley Baldwin won the most seats, but Labour led by Ramsay MacDonald, and Herbert Asquith's reunited Liberal Party gained enough seats to produce a hung parliament. Is the 1923 result an omen for the 2019 election? By the time the Colerne Parish Magazine hits the streets and by-ways of our village the answer to this question will be known. It would be a brave person who hazards a guess as to the result of this year’s election from the viewpoint of late November 2019. From a study of the various manifestos unveiled and trumpeted with many flourishes by the competing parties, we ought if we believe what they say to be preparing ourselves to walk, united once more, hand in hand towards the Sunlit Uplands where the Magic Money Tree has miraculously manifested itself, and is ready to deliver riches beyond the dreams of avarice. One might expect to see pigs flying and dodging various pies in the sky if that scenario turns out to be true. We shall see. In the meantime, if we can restrain our excitement and impatience while awaiting the result of events, life goes on. Christmas will be upon us when these words are (perhaps) read. Before becoming a predominantly secular event, during which excessive quantities of food and drink are consumed and inordinately large sums of money spent on presents, Christmas, as its name suggests, was and remains an important Christian celebration of a joyous nature. The Christian message is ‘Glory to God in the Highest, on earth peace, goodwill to all humankind’. An important tenet in all major religions is that one should not behave to others (our neighbours) as we would not have them behave towards ourselves. ‘Love thy neighbour’ in other words, a very good principle to observe at any time, particularly at Christmas and the aftermath of an election. It would be a good thing if we could all agree that if our neighbour has different views from ourselves, that fact does not necessarily make him or her a bad person. A very good New Year resolution with which to start January 2020. The New Year will mark a step into the unknown, a leap in the dark, or a fall off a cliff, or a combination of all three. Three and a half years after the dreaded Referendum we still do not know how smooth or rocky our way forward will be. Let us hope that we leave the EU, if we must, with as much order and as little chaos as is possible. Not being a user of Social Media, I have no first-hand knowledge of any harassment being carried out on these ‘platforms.’ There have, however, been reports that several decent women Members of Parliament have been hounded out of their membership by abuse they have received ‘on-line’. This is contemptible behaviour and most sensible Continued on page 23 Colerne Parish Magazine, January 2020 21

W.F. Dolman & Son WILL KNIGHT PICTURE FRAMER Old Established (1919) Family Funeral Directors

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Tel: 01225 743336 Email: [email protected] Web: www.dolmansfuneraldirectors.org.uk

22 Colerne Parish Magazine, January 2020

Continued from page 21 people will have been appalled by this conduct of a minority of users. Even worse has been the bullying of vulnerable young people by means of Social Media. In some cases, this has led to victims self-harming or, in one instance at least, committing suicide. Surely this has to stop. It would be a good New Year resolution for users of Social Media to be more responsible and charitable in their use of the platforms. Whilst not suggesting that I am very optimistic that we shall have much more to be positive about this time next year, there are perhaps signs that the logjam in the current affairs of this country may be shifting a few millimetres. If I am still alive in November 2020, I shall see if this impression turns out to be correct. To conclude, may I wish those who read the Colerne Parish Magazine a Merry Christmas and an enlightened New Year. John Crittenden Saturday Market Old School – 25th January, 10.00 to 11.45am Here we are, back to normal, all ready for a New Year, when we will be ready to sell you all those useful items you did not know you needed, and we can even take in those items you cleared during the break. Our regular raffle will be there, as well as the Charity Stall for your support, and on a dull Saturday in January why not meet your friends for coffee! The Market Team

Corsham Churches Foodbank – A Reminder The Corsham Churches Foodbank continues to provide vouchers for anyone in need within Colerne via the Three Shires Surgery 742028, The Firs surgery 743600 or via Box Vicarage 744458. Also direct from the Corsham Churches Food Bank 07788 115095. The Foodbank is available to assist those in difficult circumstances who find themselves short of food. It is based at St Aldhelm’s Church in Pickwick Road, Corsham and is open on Tuesdays 10.00 – 11.30am and Saturdays 10.00am – 12noon. The Little Larder situated in the south porch of the Church of St John the Baptist, Colerne is open 24/7 with emergency supplies for anyone to help themselves when in need. Colerne News continues to receive donations of dried foods and toiletries for delivery to the Corsham Foodbank weekly by a team of volunteers. Shirley Willcox on behalf of Colerne PCC

Hitching Skilling Residents’ Association I would like to thank those who attended our inaugural Hitching Skilling Residents’ Association meetings. You will be advised of any further meetings and we welcome all of our neighbours to join us. Our aim is to work collectively together for the benefit of all those who live in Hitching Skilling. A very happy 2020 to all our neighbours! Alison Gardner

Colerne Parish Magazine, January 2020 23

HEADS UP HAIR SOUTHERNWOOD Your Local Salon CARPENTRY / JOINERY 01225 743736 38 High Street Established over 30 years Open on Tuesday 8.30am–2.00pm All types of internal and external work Thursday 8.30am–4.00pm Windows/Doors/Conservatories/Bi-fold Friday 8.30am–5.00pm Saturday 8.30am–1.00pm Matching mouldings to existing works Extended hours by appointment only We can also fit products supplied by you We cover If it’s made of wood and you would like the whole family’s hairdressing needs a free estimate or advice from perming, cutting and barbering phone to hair extensions and colouring Ed: 01225 859390/07738 353468 or Loyalty Card Alex: 07921 177423 or Email Please ask us about our [email protected] Loyalty Card Scheme

THE DOG HOTEL (Colerne) NOTICE FOR HOME BOARDING FOR DOGS

Dog Walking, Puppy, Cat & Small Furry Animal Visits ADVERTISERS (Occasional Day Care for Dogs) If you would like to place an Advertisement in this Magazine

please contact

Fully Insured with Pet Plan Fully Licensed by Wiltshire Council Celia Batterham Washmere Farm, Washmeres, Over 20 Years Experience Colerne SN14 8DQ Qualifications in Animal Behaviour, Animal Care Tel No. 01225 744809 & Level 2 Dog Grooming from City & Guilds Email: [email protected]

     Advertising Rates Call, Text or Email: Full page £53 Half page £27 Lucy 07718 623373 Quarter page £14 [email protected]

24 Colerne Parish Magazine, January 2020

Being outdoors is good for us no matter what the weather!! The children of Machu Picchu class certainly agree with this as we clamber into our waterproofs and wellies on a Friday and head out to explore our local environment come rain or shine. With excited chatter we head out to look closely at all the wonderful trees and plants that we are lucky enough to have on our doorstep. We are becoming much better at identifying the trees from their leaf shape and bark patterns and with the help of our spotter’s guides we are able to name a variety of seasonal plants and flowers. Being outside develops our resilience as we discover that there is plenty to explore even when it’s raining cats and dogs or blowing a gale. We love going splashing in the puddles and squelching in the mud, some of us even enjoy covering our faces in it too. Much cheaper than a spa treatment!! Running against the wind makes us laugh and shout and dance as we get exhilarated and increase our fitness levels. We can now walk 5km in 90 minutes in the torrential rain, laughing as we paddle up the hills splashing in the rivers flowing down into the valley. It is a real joy to hear the children socialising with their friends, having conversations as they discuss the seasonal changes that they are observing. We have all been down to Frank’s Wood and made a tree friend. We are going to revisit it in the Spring, Summer and Autumn. We wonder whether we will be able to find them again and how they will change over the year. So as the nights draw in and the weather turns colder, wrap up and get out and appreciate the amazing world that, following on from our creation week, the children discovered that Christians believe God created in seven days. Our challenge to you. Machu Picchu class suggests that you as a family set yourselves a New Year challenge. Maybe climb a mountain, walk a kilometre further each time you go out, learn the names of the ten most common plants and animals found in British Woodlands. The list is endless but at the heart of it all enjoy watching your children have fun in the great outdoors, spending time together chatting and laughing. Let us know of any challenges you come up with! What will be the wackiest? Nikki Brennan – Class Teacher

Colerne Parish Magazine, January 2020 25

15(15) Volvo XC60 D4 SE Lux, in Red, Leather, Bluetooth, Cruise etc, History, 42000 miles ...... £14,995

13(13) VW Beetle 2.0 TSi Sport, in Brown, Bluetooth, Dab Radio, Sat Nav, Full History, 53000 miles .. £8,995

13(63) VW Golf 1.4 Tsi SE, 5 Dr, in Red, Park Sensors, Cruise, Bluetooth, Full History, 41863 miles..... £8,395

15(64) Peugeot 2008 1.6 e-HDi Crossway, 5 Dr, in Beige, Sat Nav, Bluetooth etc, 25000 miles ... £7,995

13(63) VW Polo 1.2 Match, 5 Dr, in White, Rear Sensors, A/c, DAB, Cruise, 23000 miles .... £6,995

13(13) Peugeot 2008 1.6 HDi Allure, in Brown, Bluetooth, Cruise, A/c, DAB etc, 28700 miles,.... £6,495

15(15) Smart Forfour 1.0 Prime, 5 Dr, in Silver, Leather, Comfort pack, Cruise etc, 14000 miles . £5,695

26 Colerne Parish Magazine, January 2020

It’s that ‘B’ word. Looking at the title you’d be forgiven for thinking that this piece is going to be about ‘Brexit’, but I think we’ve all had enough of that! No, it’s ‘B’ for Birthday. At the end of 2019, Box, Colerne & Rudloe LINK celebrated its 40th birthday. The idea to start LINK came from a recognition at Box surgery during the winter of 1978/9 of the difficulty that some patients were having in getting to appointments. Dr John McQuitty and Rudloe resident Jacky Nicholas came up with the idea of forming a volunteer force of local people who would provide transport to people who would otherwise not have been able to get to the surgery. Sadly, Dr McQuitty died suddenly in mid 1979 before he was able to see the idea come to full fruition, but Jacky Nicholas carried on the work that had been started with other volunteers, and became Link’s first chairperson. The McQuitty connection with LINK has carried on through Dr Janet Bjorn, Dr McQuitty’s widow, becoming our President. At the end of November, 80 volunteers and invited guests attended a celebration lunch held at the Community Campus in Corsham. It was a very convivial gathering where some of the volunteers and those connected with LINK from the early days working at the surgery heard of the way in which LINK has developed from being the first organisation of its kind in Wiltshire to being one of 45 now operating throughout the county. Those of us who help to guide the organisation as committee members and work as volunteers are justifiably proud of the way in which our particular LINK has developed and the service we provide. I’m sure that all our volunteers would be able to cite instances of clients saying “I don’t know what we’d do without LINK”. This kind of comment makes the job worth doing and keeps us volunteering – perhaps for the next 40 years? The picture shows Dr Janet Bjorn and Jacky Nicholas cutting the 40th birthday cake. Steve Drew

Colerne Parish Magazine, January 2020 27

Thickwood Logs

All our logs are fully seasoned, locally sourced at competitive prices. We deliver to your door, unload and stack. Tel: Tom & Kay Hall 01225 743351 DOMESTIC CLEANING IRONING WINDOW CLEANING GENERAL HANDYMAN SERVICES GARDENING Reliable, fully managed and insured domesc household cleaning and other services T: 07986 836368 or 07734 456575 or 07794 210601 Email: [email protected] Bybrook Community Concierge 28 Colerne Parish Magazine, January 2020

Colerne CLT Community-led Housing Group

The CLT group continues to meet on the fourth Thursday of the month, from 7.30pm at Colerne Liberal Club. Our next meeting will be 23rd January. Date for Your Diaries 26th March – Public Meeting to Launch Colerne CLT The Steering group was inspired by a talk from Marshfield CLT. With 107 £1 share holders they have been able to raise grants to buy land and develop designs for 18 dwellings, including 12 affordable rentals, on rural land just outside the village. In partnership with their chosen housing association, they will commence building this year! This is what Colerne can also do with enough show of support from you. The Neighbourhood Plan community survey showed over 90% support for more affordable housing and this is the only way to make it happen in rural areas. Jane Mellett

Royal British Legion Colerne Branch

Poppy Appeal 2019 The support this year around the village and 21 Signal Regt has been unprecedented. From the Branch, we thank you. Without the seamless co-ordination of our Poppy Appeal Co-ordinator none of this would happen. We would like to say a massive thank you to Anne Miller and to all our volunteers for all their help. Total amount raised was an amazing £4462!! Well done Colerne. Burns Night Celebrations Back by popular demand, our Burns Night Celebrations will take place on Saturday, 25th January in the Fox & Hounds. Everyone welcome. It is a fantastic fun night. Alongside our traditional fair and entertainments we will be hosting a grand raffle in support of The Royal British Legion. London Marathon Our very own Kay Hall, on behalf of The Royal British Legion, has been accepted for a place in the Virgin London Marathon 2020 which takes place in April. Watch out for posters and social media for details for this fabulous event. Happy New Year We would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very Happy and a prosperous 2020! And many thanks to you for your continued support of Colerne Branch, Royal British Legion. Kay Hall, Publicity Officer Colerne Parish Magazine, January 2020 29

BERNARD BAKER Carpentry and General SIXTEEN-SEAT COACH HIRE Building Maintenance Travel All Internal and External Carpentry for all occasions Floor and Ceramic Tiling Plastering Kitchen Fitting Painting and Decorating contact Garden Hardscaping and Decking Mark Brookman

Over 30 years’ experience in the building trade. Tel No: 01249 782368 All jobs considered, big or small. Mobile: 07768 104720 Please call for a free, no obligation, quote. Email: [email protected] Mobile Number: 07751 459191

ROOM OR HOUSE LETS URGENTLY REQUIRED FOR HOTEL STAFF LOCATING TO THIS AREA Lucknam Park Hotel is looking for room lets in Colerne and surrounding areas including Ford, Box, Corsham, Bath and Marshfield

Caroline Pollitt, Staff Housing Officer, is on hand to act as liaison between Landlords and Staff to ensure that rentals run smoothly

Should you be interested please contact 01225 740505 or alternatively email [email protected]

30 Colerne Parish Magazine, January 2020

Tuesday Tramp Ramblings The initial tramp route had to be cancelled this time because there was a shoot scheduled at the same time as the Tramp, causing safety concerns on both sides. This was discovered during the pre-walk by the Tramp Leaders when talking to the shoot organisers. This meant that a rapid re-plan of a suitable alternative Tramp route was needed, which required yet another pre-walk to ensure that there were no problems on the chosen route. The re-vamping took into consideration the recent heavy rain that had created, in many places, excessively muddy conditions under foot making walking an unpleasant experience. The unusually high amount of precipitation caused last month’s Tramp to be abandoned half way round, because the Bybrook had burst its bank and flooded across the footpath rendering it impassable. The Tramp’s Leaders had to take an alternative route which they planned on the spot. This is where the Leaders’ knowledge of all the Parish footpaths becomes an invaluable skill so as to maintain a safe and pleasant walking experience for everyone. As this was the last Tramp of 2019 may I thank Sid, Dave, and Rob for leading the Tramps so well, and for taking part in the many work parties that keep the paths, stiles etc. in good order. I also thank all you Trampers for turning up each month in such appreciable numbers making the Colerne Tuesday Tramps a pleasant and social occasion. I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all an enjoyable Christmas and a healthy New Year ready for more Tramps in 2020. Our next Tramp will be on 7th January. Each Tramp is different and we always walk at an enjoyable pace, starting and finishing at the Fox; the departure time is 10.00am. Good footwear, sensible attire and a mid-walk ‘munchie’ are essential. Russell Harding (742182) Cotswold Warden

Colerne Parish Magazine, January 2020 31

Recipe Corner Roast pheasant with cider, apples and Calvados (Serves 4) Ingredients 2 oven-ready pheasants. A little lard (or bacon fat, if you have some) For the sauce For the apples 750ml good cider (not too dry) 3 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored 1 onion, sliced and cut into large dice 1 carrot, sliced 25g butter 3 sticks celery, sliced 1tbspn golden caster sugar 300m double cream A squeeze of lemon juice A large splash of Calvados Method 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C/ 400°F/gas mark 6. 2. Smear the pheasants with lard and season well, place them in a roasting tin and slide into the oven. 3. After 10 minutes, turn the temperature down to 180°C/350°F/gas mark 4 and roast for a further 15 minutes, basting frequently. 4. Remove from the oven, drain off the fat and leave the birds to cool a little. 5. Once cool enough to handle, remove the legs simply by pulling them away from the carcass and slice off the breasts using a small, sharp knife, keeping them intact. 6. Arrange the joints of pheasant in a handsome, ovenproof serving dish and put to one side; the flesh should be very pink. Leave the oven on. 7. To make the sauce, roughly chop up the pheasant carcasses with a sturdy knife, put them in a roomy pot and add the cider and vegetables; add a little water if the ingredients aren't covered with liquid. Bring up to a boil, skim off any resultant scum with a large spoon, cover and simmer very quietly for about an hour. 8. Strain the solids through a colander into a clean pan, discarding the debris, and leave to settle for a minute or two. 9. Remove any resultant surface fat with kitchen paper, then heat this stock over a medium flame and reduce until syrupy with a rich, golden colour – this will take 20 minutes or so. 10. Pour in the cream, whisk together and carefully bring up to a boil, then simmer for a few minutes. 11. Strain through a fine sieve over the reserved bird joints, coating them well with the sauce, before returning the sauced pheasant to finish in the oven. Cook for about 20 minutes or until gently bubbling, the sauce having become rich and unctuous. 12. While the pheasant finishes cooking, melt the butter in a small pan, stir in the apples and sprinkle the sugar and lemon juice over them. Stew gently, stirring occasionally, until soft, but also touched with golden burnishes here and there. Splash with a little Calvados and stir. 13. Remove the pheasant from the oven, garnish with spoonfuls of apples and serve forthwith.

32 Colerne Parish Magazine, January 2020

DIRECTORY OF VILLAGE ORGANISATIONS Badminton Club D Pearson – 858293 Jumping Jacks (Parent & Toddler Group) Bellringers & Handbells Nikki Jenner – 01225 571506 Jacqui Bradburn, 8 Fosseway Close – 743041 Labour Association Colerne After School Club Ltd Chris Phillips, 28 Round Barrow Close – 742755 Bev Stickley – 07881 367022 Liberal Club, 22 High Street – 07799 558489 Colerne Air Training Corps Liberal Democrats Flt Sgt Clarke – 01225 743988 – [email protected] Dr Brian Mathew – 07771 607983 Colerne Army Cadet Force Email – [email protected] SSI Alan Bell – 07812 744480 LINK (Community Service) Colerne Classic Car Club Transport – 07970 617617 Russell Harding, 10 Fosseway Close – 742182 Luncheon Club Colerne Crazy Quilters Polly Squire – 07517 136180 Julie Burgess – 743999 Playgroup Colerne Evangelical Church (FIEC) Old School, Vicarage Lane – 744885 Revd Jonathan Sell – 744463 Parish Council Colerne Gardening Club Sharon Whelon, Council Office, Cleo Saunders – 743438 Old School, Vicarage Lane – 742207 Colerne Golf Society Primary School Hon Sec: Rob Gray – 01249 820171 Headteacher: Mr Mark Solomon – 742367 Email – [email protected] FRESCO Corsham and Colerne Military Wives Choir Steve Francis – 07788 591555 [email protected] Police Community Support Colerne Musical Theatre To report incidents or crimes – tel. 101 Pete Green, 9 Bellott Drive, Corsham SN13 9UQ – Other matters, eg information, email: 01249 715657 [email protected] Colerne Panthers Mini Rugby Royal British Legion [email protected] General Matters – Paul Jobbins – 745839 Colerne Rugby Club Contact Centre helpline – 0808 802 8080 Hon Secretary: John Hutchinson – 742137 from 8.00am to 8.00pm, 7 days a week Email – [email protected] Scout Groups Conservative Association Group Scout Leader: Jackie Bicknell – 743383 Dick Tonge, Bank House, Tutton Hill – 742631 Scout Leader: Rob Featherstone – 938660 Constitutional Club, High Street – Cub Scout Leader: Katherine Manuel –744615 07768 341130 or 742197 Beaver Scout Leader: Jo Jackson – 01249 716647 Cotswold AONB Voluntary Warden Village Hall Association Russell Harding – 742182 Anne Nicholas – 744544 – [email protected] Encore Musical Cabaret & Concert Group Village Hall Bookings Peter Clare, 44 Valley Way, Thickwood – 743727 Sheila Nicholas – 744544 – [email protected] FC Colerne Colts Women’s Institute Paul Carey – 07786 745165 Norma Burgess, Summerhayes, Washmeres – 744612 Friends of Colerne Church Ray Barker, 6 Fosseway Close – 743402 Guide Groups Rainbows: Helen Atter – 742912 Brownies: Helen Atter – 742912 Guides: Helen Atter, Trunnells Barn, High Street – 742912 Hawk & Owl Trust East Bath Area Group Useful Colerne Telephone numbers Mike Rogers – 744290 History Group Premier Stores 742147 Colerne News Flower Shop 744153 and Post Office 742858 Eileen Collins, 5 Chapel Path – 744266 Fox & Hounds 744847 Hive Information Officer Hairdresser 743736 Amy Tuck – 07973 723221

Colerne Parish Magazine, January 2020 33

COLERNE EVANGELICAL CHURCH Home & Business Computing CHAPEL PATH, COLERNE www.colerne-evangelical-church.co.uk Support, help and advice call for a local and friendly service:

 Purchasing + set up advice  Broadband, Internet + email

 Cloud compung

 Share Files, photos etc All are welcome!  Defence against the dark arts  Backup valuable informaon Sunday Morning Service 10.45am  PC, Mac and phones Evening Service 6.30pm Call Ian on 01225 745732 to talk Wednesday Ladies’ Meeting 2.00pm about what you want and how I Prayer & Bible Study 7.45pm can help, or see our web site for

more informaon: Minister: Revd Jonathan Sell 744463 www.daubeneys.com

Colerne Liberal Club

Caroline Gill

Painter and Decorator 22 High Street Pub atmosphere – Club prices Tel: 01225 859539 Forthcoming events for January Mobile: 07767 247735 include: Email: [email protected]  18th Saturday, – Lix ’n’ Stix a blend of Blues and Rock Freshen up the home for Winter to start the New Year with something a little different An experienced lady decorator providing a friendly, tidy and reliable service. Bookmark the Club’s website at Based in Batheaston. http://www.libclubcolerne.co.uk Contact me for a free estimate. for all the latest updates – also on Recommendations available on request Facebook’s Colerne Community Pages

34 Colerne Parish Magazine, January 2020

THE LOFT GYM AT THE MANOR HOUSE GOLF CLUB

With state of the art TechnoGym equipment including a free weights area, recline bikes, resistance machines and more, our brand new gym, The Loft, will help you achieve your goals and membership is open to everyone! £35 per month Plus a £35 joining fee which includes a 1 hour induction with our Personal Trainer and a bespoke 3 month training plan. CALL US EMAIL IMOGEN FIND OUT MORE 01249 784808 [email protected] exclusive.co.uk/the-manor-house-golf-club

Colerne Parish Magazine, January 2020 35

Colerne Cinema at Colerne Village Hall Films are sponsored by Turbo-Jection 2nd Tuesday of the month – Doors open 7.00pm for a 7.30pm start 14th January – Downton Abbey (PG) Drama/Romance 1927 – the Crawleys and their intrepid staff prepare for the most important moment of their lives. A royal visit from the King and Queen will unleash scandal, romance and intrigue that will leave the future of Downton hanging in the balance. Cast includes: Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville, Michelle Dockery, Jim Carter, Matthew Goode, Elizabeth McGovern, Allen Leech, Imelda Staunton, Mark Addy, Penelope Wilton, Lesley Nicol, Laura Carmichael, Brendan Coyle, Joanne Froggatt, Tuppence Middleton, Phyllis Logan, Kevin Doyle, Robert James-Collier 11th February – The Good Liar (15) Thriller/Drama Career con artist Roy Courtnay can hardly believe his luck when he meets well-to-do widow Betty McLeish online. As Betty opens her home and life to him, Roy is surprised to find himself caring about her, turning what should be a cut-and-dry swindle into the most treacherous tightrope walk of his life. Cast includes: Helen Mirren, Ian McKellan, Russell Tovey, Jim Carter 10th March – Knives Out (12A) Comedy/Crime/Drama When renowned crime novelist Harlan Thrombey is found dead at his estate just after his 85th birthday, the inquisitive and debonair Private Detective Benoit Blanc is mysteriously enlisted to investigate. From Harlan’s dysfunctional family to his devoted staff, Blanc sifts through a web of red herrings and self-serving lies to uncover the truth behind Harlan’s untimely death. Cast includes: Daniel Craig, Jamie Lee Curtis, Ana de Armas, Chris Evans, Don Johnson, Christopher Plummer, Toni Collette 14th April – Judy (12A) Biopic Drama Winter 1968 and showbiz legend Judy Garland arrives in Swinging London to perform a five-week sold-out run at The Talk of the Town. It is 30 years since she shot to global stardom in The Wizard of Oz, but if her voice has weakened, its dramatic intensity has only grown. As she prepares for the show, battles with management, charms musicians and reminisces with friends and adoring fans, her wit and warmth shine through. Even her dreams of love seem undimmed as she embarks on a whirlwind romance with Mickey Deans, her soon-to-be fifth husband. Cast includes: Renée Zellweger, Finn Wittrock, Rufus Sewell, Michael Gambon BOX OFFICE: 01225 744544 or email: [email protected]; tickets can be bought on the door. Single Tickets £5, Family Ticket £15 (2 adults & 2 children or 1 adult & 3 children; adults over 18 and children under 15). Loyalty Cards are available. 36Supported by: Colerne Parish Magazine, January 2020