Three Parishes Magazine November 2018

Contents November 2018 3 Parishes CIC progress 2 Katharine House news 9 ADVERTISING 27-40 Library events 9 Advertising info 26 Nostalgia 25 Three Parishes Ardley Ardley w Fewcott 15-17 Out and About 24 Bin Collections 5 Photos 26 CHAPEL NEWS 14 Publication contacts 26 @3parishesnews CHURCH NEWS 10-13 Regular Events 2 http://3parishesnews.wordpress.com Editorial info 26 School News 8 Emergency Information 4 Smallprint 26 Events 6 & 7 Souldern 20-21 Fritwell 18-19 The Arts 22 Further Afield 9 & 10 Transport 3 Gardening 23 Useful phone nos 4 Index of Advertisers 27

Diary 2 KHH Santa Fun Run p9 NOVEMBER 4 Lights of Love Service Brackley p9 2 WWI evening Fritwell p18 6 Lights of Love Service p9 4 Fritwell School Fireworks p7 7 Trip to Winchester Markets p7 7 Time to Talk Coffee morning p20 12 Christmas Bingo Fritwell p3 10 Fritwell Scouts Jumble Sale p19 School Christmas Tea Party p8 12 Trip to Swindon and Gloucester p16 13 School Nativity p8 13 Forget-me-Nots trip to Bedford p18 Fritwell Quiz Xmas party p18 16 Cushion Club Fritwell p18 21 School Carol Service p8 17 Christmas Market Souldern p6 18 Fritwell Open Mic Night p18 JANUARY 24 School Christmas Fayre p9 5 AwF Gardening Club social p17 25 AwF Gardening Club dinner p17 26 Fritwell Parish Council meeting p19 FEBRUARY 28 Christmas Bingo Fritwell p6 13 AwF Gardening Club lunch p17

DECEMBER 1 Christmas market p9 For Church Services see p11

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WELCOME

Welcome to the second issue of the magazine of the Three Parishes Community Interest Company. Delivered free to every household in Ardley-with-Fewcott, Fritwell and Souldern, the magazine will appear 10 times each year in February, March, April, May, June, July, August, October, November and December. We are always keen to hear your views on the magazine and to receive contributions. Please also send in your ideas and opinions about the type of thing you would like to see in future issues. For editorial and advertising details please see the back page. The next deadline for copy is November 16th and this is for the Christmas and New Year issue, so don’t forget to send in all your events and news in plenty of time!

3 PARISHES COMMUNITY INTEREST REGULAR EVENTS

COMPANY PROGRESS REPORT Mondays OCTOBER 2018 • 09.30-10.30amTai Chi Ardley Village Hall • 10.30am Craft Group Heyford Chapel Welcome to the November issue of the evolv- • 10.30am Comet Bus Service to ing Three Parishes Magazine. We are pres- • 7.30pm Faith in Art Group Heyford Park Chapel ently migrating away from the auspices of the Tuesdays Souldern Parochial Church Council and will • 9.45 and 11am Rhyme Time Bicester Library hopefully be self-funding soon. • 10.30am Coffee Club Ardley Village Hall • 2nd Tues Forget-me-Nots meeting Fritwell VH We have had a pleasing number of positive comments so far about the new-look maga- Wednesdays zine. • Ardley Bin collection day • 10am Heyford Playgroup at the Chapel • 1-2.30pm Playbus Ardley Village Hall Some people think the print is a bit small. • 7.30pm Fritwell Archery Club, Scout Hut Interestingly, it is in fact the same size as it • 11am (1st Weds) Coffee Souldern Village Hall was before, but the images are sometimes • 7pm (Last Weds) Bingo Fritwell Village Hall smaller, including some adverts, and this we • 7.30pm WI Bucknell Village Hall (3rd Weds) are working on. Thursdays • Fritwell and Souldern Bin collection day We have 2 months in the new format to test • 11am Pop up café Church out the market for advertisers. We are hoping • 8pm ‘Thirsty Thursdays’ Fritwell Village Hall that we get more, because we are going out • 2pm Tea and pancakes at Fewcott House Nursing to more readers. But of course we have a home smaller format, so that might affect things. We • 2pm Social Bridge Highfield Club Bicester intend to review the prices of advertising in • 7pm Rugby Training Fritwell Playing Field • 7.30pm Pilgrim course Heyford Park Chapel the new year as well. As these have remained the same for at least 5 years, we intend to Fridays increase them a little. • 11am coffee & cake White Lion Fewcott • 5pm Fridays Beavers, 6.15 Cubs , 8pm Scouts The next issue will be the Christmas and New Fritwell Scout Hut Year one, so please send in all your festive • 7.30pm 3rd Friday—Fritwell Cushion Club Village Hall contributions in plenty of time! Saturdays Editor • Soccer School Ardley Village Hall The full Aim and Objectives of the CIC are on Sundays p5 1st Sunday 10am Souldern Chapel Kid’s Club 4th Sunday 10.30am Family Service Souldern Church

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TRANSPORT BUS SERVICE MONDAYS TRANSPORT CHOICES Wheelchairs can be accommodated with 24 hours notice to the service administra- The Comet tors (01295 257 930) Tel: 01865 323201 www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/comet The free trial is being funded from OCC’s Community Transport budget to assess Costs vary based on journey and travel demand. Contact details in right column. type. A bookable transport service from The service runs for the last time on Mon- Oxfordshire County Council, available for day November 5th. people in the Three Parishes area that do TIMETABLE: not have access to suitable public transport. The Comet can do one-off journeys, regular SOULDERN - OPPOSITE THE 10.30 11.30 and group trips. FOX PH FRITWELL - EAST STREET / 10.33 11.33 Volunteer Connect Tel: 0300 30 30 125 OLD SCHOOL LANE Jct [email protected] FEWCOTT - OPPOSITE THE 10.35 11.35 www.oxonvolunteers.org WHITE LION INN Costs: 45p per mile Provides help to get to hospital and doctor ARDLEY - OPPOSITE WATER 10.38 11.38 appointments, health centres or for social trips LANE like clubs and day centres. BUCKNELL - OPPOSITE THE 10.42 11.42 Not usually available for shopping trips BUS SHELTER CHESTERTON - THE GREEN 10.48 11.48 Cherwell Community Volunteer Services BUS SHELTER Tel: 01295 759126 [email protected] CHESTERTON - THE RED 10.50 11.50 COW PH Costs: Local journeys up to 10 miles—£5 BICESTER - MANORSFIELD 11.00 12.00 Over 10 miles—47p per mile BUS STAND 7 3 days notice required. Service for older peo- ple and those with disabilities and their ac-

companying carers. BICESTER – MANORSFIELD 12.15 13.15 BUS STAND 7 COMET BUS SERVICE UPDATE

CHESTERTON – THE GREEN 12.23 13.23 The trial period of the free Monday Comet BUS SHELTER bus service is coming to an end and council- CHESTERTON – THE RED 12.25 13.25 lors and bus users have been working with COW PH others to agree an arrangement for this to BUCKNELL - OPPOSITE THE 12.33 13.33 continue. This is a vital service for anyone in BUS SHELTER the village who has no access to private transport and has proved popular with our ARDLEY – WATER LANE 12.37 13.37 residents. Details have yet to be finally agreed but we’re hopeful that this service will FEWCOTT – OUTSIDE THE 12.40 13.40 continue with funding support from OCC WHITE LION INN Cllrs. Corkin and Fatemian and Parish Coun- FRITWELL – EAST STREET 12.42 13.42 cils along the route. Lobbying continues for OLD PHONE BOX this service to be on a Friday, but no Comet SOULDERN – THE FOX PH 12.45 13.45 bus is available for this at the moment.

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EMERGENCY INFORMATION FOX PUBLIC FRITWELL WHITE LION HOUSE VILLAGE HALL PUBLIC HOUSE SOULDERN Fewcott Road FEWCOTT High Street OX27 7QA OX27 7NZ OX27 7JW

Bicester Community Hospital OUT OF HOURS MINOR INJURIES UNIT The Community Hospital FAU is open out of hours only. If you are lucky (!) enough to sus- tain an injury during office hours you can visit your GP Nurse.

Saturday 8:30am–11pm Sunday 8:30am–11pm Monday 6–11pm Tuesday 6–11pm Wednesday 6–11pm Thursday 6–11pm Friday 6–11pm

Piggy Lane, Bicester, Call 01865 903976—please call before you come. They do not have x-ray facilities, so if you think it’s broken, The Horton Hospital in Banbury A&E is for you.

USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS Age UK 0800 055 6112 Member of Parliament 01869 233685 Bicester Good Neighbours 07849 799530 NHS non-emergency help 111 Bicester First Aid Unit 01865 903976 Parish Council Ardley 01869 346996 Bin Collection (Cherwell DC)01295 227003 Parish Council Fritwell 01869 345830 Bus services (CDC) 01295 257930 Parish Council Souldern 01869 345931 Carers support Oxfordshire0845 050 666 Police non-emergency 101 Church benefice office 01869 233687 Police station Bicester 01865 841148 Council 01295 227001 Roads and Verges 01295 227007 Citizens’ Advice 08444 111 444 RSPCA 0300 1234 999 Community Transport 0300 30 30 125 School (Fritwell) 01869 345283 Counselling (adults—Samaritans) 116 123 Street Lights 0800 317802 Counselling (children) 0800 11 11 Suicide helpline phone 0800 068 4141 GP— Surgery 01869 338611 Suicide helpline text 07786 209697 Electrical Power Cut 08000 727 282 Victims of Crime 0300 1234 148 Environmental Health 01295 227001 Village Hall Ardley 01869 346632 Financial Hardship help 0800 138 1111 Village Hall Fritwell 01869 346624 Floodline 0845 988 1188 Village Hall Souldern 07812 501604 Food Bank 01869 357181 / 01869 600113 Waste water/sewerage 0800 316 9800 Good Neighbour Scheme 07849 799530 Weather—Met Office 0370 900 0100 Housing (Cherwell DC) 01295 227004 Weelchair loans 01869 345269 Mains Water 0800 316 9800

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COMMUNITY

Ardley w Fewcott- BIN COLLECTIONS Fritwell & Souldern WEDNESDAYS NOVEMBER THURSDAYS

THREE PARISHES CIC Youth Organisations, Social Enterprises, local busi- AIM nesses, charities, schools, advocacy services etc. To alleviate isolation in the rural communities of 3) To promote local events and services by publish- Fritwell, Ardley with Fewcott and Souldern by pro- ing reviews in order to encourage people to attend moting a sense of inclusion and belonging so that and get involved. all residents feel able to take part in, and contribute 4) To act as a platform for debate on topics of inter- to, their community. est to people in the three villages. OBJECTIVES 5) To support local social enterprises and charities 1) To freely disseminate information to the commu- with donations, grants etc from the profits of the nity in the form of a regular magazine and social CIC. media presence, and other suitable methods. 6) To raise money through selling advertising to 2) To be the news media of choice for community local businesses to be published in the regular mag- organisations such as: Parish Councils, Churches, azine and on social media.

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EVENTS

Souldern Christmas Market Gifts, Cards & Decorations Jewellery, Arts & Crafts Lots of seasonal ideas, food & drink So come along and enjoy a glass of mulled wine & mince pie while you browse this lovely array of locally produced Christmas fayre Entry Free

Saturday 17th November 10am-1pm in the Church

For more information or to book a stall contact Barbara Tel: 01869 345931 Email: [email protected]

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EVENTS

Group Garden Holidays The 2020 Group Holiday to Cornwall and I have one or two seats available on the coach hopefully the Scilly Isles is underway, details to Winchester Christmas Market on Friday to follow in the New Year. 7 December. Seats are £15 per-person. The coach departs from:- Brackley High Street 8am Fritwell Bus Stop 8.15am Ardley 8.20am Bucknell Rd Bicester 8.30am Rd Bicester 8.35am Manorsfield Rd Bicester 8.40am Bucknell has a thriving WI that is open to

women of all ages. We meet on the 3rd April 2019 visit to Northumbria 4 twin/ Wednesday of each month (except August) in double rooms are available. We will stay at the the Village Hall at 7.30 p.m. and our activities ‘Derwent Manor ’ set in 20 acres of cover a wide range of subjects both social and Northumberland countryside overlooking the educational and including occasional outings Derwent Valley. Proposed visits: the Angel of and visits. There is also the opportunity to join the North, Lindisfarne, Bamburgh Castle, a other WIs for talks and coach outings or to boat trip around the Farne islands, Alnwick learn a new skill at the WI College in Castle & Gardens and Sheffield Botanical Marcham. Gardens on route home. we are a friendly group of people of all ages and membership is We are a friendly group and enjoy ourselves at not required. For further information please meetings and events, we welcome visitors. Do contact Jean McGarry 01869 345581 or email come along and meet us or for more details [email protected]. call Mrs Kate Hedges 01869 242169.

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SCHOOL NEWS

Autumn Term October also saw our Macmillan coffee after- noon which was superbly supported and It has been a busy first term here at Fritwell raised £273.20. This was a tremendous effort with many activities taking place. The new and the range of cake donations were incredi- creative topics to start the term captured the ble. imagination of the children as they explored various themes; from hats, islands, dinosaurs and Mabel the dog to jazz. It was wonderful to see the varied and exciting opportunities in the classrooms and especially a visit from Mabel the dog!

A new Primary Leadership Team has been voted in with 2 members from each class rep- resenting the school. We have had our first leadership meeting and they have decided that they are going to help create a new Frit- well code of conduct and produce newsletters to display in our school noticeboard. They are looking for a local company to sponsor them with a small budget of £100. Please get in touch if you can help.

It was lovely to have our Harvest service at St. Olaves and we were overwhelmed by the donations of food that our community offered to go to the Bicester foodbank. Our service saw all our children performing songs, poems, We look forward to the busy Christmas period. plays and some lovely artwork. Coming events We have had great sporting success in the • FoFS Firework display – 4th November recent partnership tournaments with one of th • FoFS Christamas Fayre – 24 November our tag rugby teams winning their pool and th our footballers qualifying for the partnership • Christmas Tea Party – 12 December finals. It was lovely to see them competing • ‘Love your Learning’ open morning – 12th with great determination and respect. We also December took part in our cross country school competi- • Foundation Stage Nativity – 13th December tion which was linked to raising funds for the th • Dress up for Christmas dinner – 19 De- NSPCC. cember

• Christmas Carol Service – 21st December

It has been great to show so many parents around our wonderful school who are interest- ed in both school and nursery places. If you know anyone who would like to visit or know more about what we offer, please pass on details of the school office (01869 345283) where our staff will make an appointment for me to meet and discuss their children’s very special educational journey. Jonathan Hart, Headteacher 8

FURTHER AFIELD

KATHARINE HOUSE HOSPICE NEWS

SANTA FUN RUN: SUNDAY 2 DECEMBER On 2nd Dec AT 9am, join hundreds of others Adderbury Xmas Market for the 9th Santa Fun Run for Katharine House Hospice at Wykham Park Academy in St Mary’s Church Banbury. Test your ability, or challenge your st pals and colleagues on a 5k or 1k course, 1 December 11-4pm and enjoy live music, delicious food and en- Come to a traditional Xmas market with lots of tertainment. Most of all have fun and get in stalls for buying your Xmas presents. There the Christmas spirit. You'll get a free Santa will be cards & crafts for sale, perfumes and suit and a medal when you complete the unusual gifts & jewellery. We have homemade course. Please join team Santa and help sup- soup or hot dogs for lunch, tea & cakes in the port local people facing life-limiting illness afternoon in Church House, or mulled wine & today. Sign up at www.khh.org.uk/santa mince pies in the Church. LIGHTS OF LOVE 2018 Santa will be in his grotto for the children from You are warmly invited to our services in 11-1pm and 2-4pm. Banbury and Brackley to come together with other members of our community to remem- For more details of the programme, look on ber loved ones who are no longer with us. www.adderbury.org. You are most welcome to dedicate a light on the Christmas tree and leave a handwritten Bicester Library events 01869 252181 message in one of our books of remem- brance – please visit www.khh.org.uk/lights to Family History helpdesk Wednesdays and Fri- do so. days 9am-1.30pm Led by the hospice chaplain, a special part of Rhymetime—under 5s Tuesdays in term-time the service is the blessing of the books of 8.45am-9.15am, 9.45am-10.15am and remembrance which this year will contain 11.00am-11.30am your personal handwritten messages. Our Lights of Love events are open to everyone, Stay, play and learn—under 5s Mondays in but if you are unable to attend in person you term-time 9-10.30am can still dedicate a light and your message will be displayed in the books of remem- Computer basics Mondays 10.30am-12.30pm brance at your chosen service.

Teabooks—over 60s book club (01865 553145 Lights of Love Brackley – St Peter’s Church, for more info): Wednesday 21 Nov 2-3pm, Tuesday 4 December, 7.30pm Tuesday 18 Dec, 2-3pm Lights of Love Banbury – St Mary’s Church,

Banbury Library events 01295 262282 Thursday 6 December, 7pm

Rhymetime—under 5s Tuesdays 9—9.30am 01295 816 483 [email protected] IT sessions with Oxfordshire Age UK alternate Katharine House Hospice Tuesdays 10.30-12.30: Road Tuesday 6 Nov Adderbury Tuesday 20 Nov Banbury Tuesday 4 Dec OX17 3NL Tuesday 18 Dec

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CHURCH NEWS

Dear friends, Since the guns went quiet on the Western Front one hundred years ago, at the eleventh hour, on the eleventh day of the eleventh month of 1918, November has been synonymous with Remembrance. As Autumn takes hold, nature itself seems to be in harmony with our act of Remembrance; the falling leaves and poppies symbolizing those who fell in war. In our country, Remembrance Sunday is the focal point, linked to events in parish churches across the land. The Festival of Remembrance held at The Royal Albert Hall the evening before, movingly portrays the great loss and cost of war. Victory came through; but in no way do we glorify war. In- stead it alerts us to the sacrifices made for so many of us, now living in peace, and the debt we owe to those who died. It is our Christian duty that we should remember, in gratitude, as well as showing compassion towards those who were killed, injured or whose physical or mental health was damaged or destroyed as a result of the fighting. The consequence of war is that the families which are left, all too of- ten, have to carry the heaviest loads. In the New Testament, we read “There is no greater love than this, that a man should lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13 These words were spoken by Jesus of Nazareth not long before He made the ultimate sacrifice. He laid down his life for the whole world. Like the heroes of the Somme, Jesus died that we might live in peace and freedom. The peace that our Lord won was an inner peace that, through faith in God’s Son, we have peace with God, which lasts for ever. We can then have the confidence that, when we leave this world behind, we will go straight into the presence of God, our Heavenly Father. ‘War and Peace’ is well known as the title of Leo Tolstoy’s epic novel that tells of the French invasion of Russia, and the impact of European power. It might also be regarded as an accurate description of the reality of the long history of humanity, in which the constant hope of universal peace has been undermined by war. On two occasions in the Old Testament, we hear the prophetic claim that one day war will give way to peace, resulting in swords being turned into ploughshares, and nation not lifting up sword against nation, neither learning war any more. That day may not be near, nevertheless, with courage we can work for peace in our minds and hearts, in our homes, communities and at work. In all our relationships one with another and above all we can seek and find peace with God. Sincerely yours, Geoff

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CHURCH SERVICES

St Mary's Ann to the St Mary's The Chapel St Mary's St Olave's Lower St James BVM Upper Heyford Ardley Fritwell Heyford Somerton Souldern Heyford Park & Caulcott 9.30am 6pm 11am 9.30am 10.30am 11am 28 8.30am Morning ALL Family Family Family All Age Oct 1662 HC Service SOULS Communion Service Church Service 11am 9:30 4 8.30am 11am 6pm 11am 11.00am Morning Holy Nov 1662 1662 HC Evensong Matins Communion Prayer Communion 7pm 9.30am 10.45am 11 8.30am 9.30am 10.45am No Ring for Sunday at the War Nov 1662 HC Remembrance Remembrance Service Peace Club Memorial 9.30 11.00 11.00am 18 9.30 11.00 8.30 No Family Matins Morning Nov MP MP 1662 HC Service Communion & HC Service 9.30am 11am 9.30am 10.30am 11am 25 6pm 8.30am Morning Family Family Family Church All Age Nov Evensong 1662 HC Service Communion Service Christingle Service 11am 6pm 9:30 2 8.30am 11am 11am 11.00am Morning Advent Holy Dec 1662 1662 HC Matins Communion Prayer Carols Communion 11am 9.30am 11am 9 9.30am 8.30am 11am No Family Sunday Morning Dec HC 1662 HC Sung HC Service Worship Club Service 6pm 14 Carol Dec Service 11.00 9.30 11.00 11.00am 16 9.30 Family 8.30 No Family Matins Morning Dec MP Christmas 1662 HC Service Communion & HC Service Story 10.30am 6pm 4pm 11am 23 4pm No Family Church 8.30am Carol Carol All Age Dec Christingle Service 6pm 1662 HC Service Service Service Carol Service 11pm 11pm 24 4pm Midnight Midnight Dec Nativity Communion Communion 9:30 11am 11:00 9:30am 10/10:30 25 Christmas Christmas Christmas Christmas Christmas Dec Communion Communion Communion Communion Communion

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CHURCH NEWS

Harvest Weekend in Souldern Awakening the Advent Word The harvest supper was once again a really lovely occasion with good food and Prayerfully pondering the poetry of the good company. Thank you to all those, scriptures of the Advent season and you know who you are, who so kindly cleared up, washed up and put everything away including the tables and chairs. A pre-Advent Quiet Day Saturday 17 November Thank you, also, to everyone who decorated the church so beautifully for the 10:30-2:30 Harvest Service, it really did look stun- ning. Also, for the very generous gifts of St Mary’s Church produce which were given for the amaz- (OX5 3HJ) ing and very important work of Polly who feeds the homeless in Banbury every sin- Coffee and tea will be provided but gle day of the year. please bring your own lunch

Polly will be coming to Time to Talk on No charge but donations welcome Wednesday 7th November to talk about what she does. Please do come along and hear what she has to say, she is a No need to book just turn up truly amazing person. (although it would be helpful to have numbers) [email protected] 01869 350224

BENEFICE OFFICE (Monday, Wednesday & Friday 9:30-2:30) 572 Brice Road, Heyford Park OX25 5TE Tel: 01869 233687 www.cherwellvalleybenefice.org.uk

The Cherwell Valley Benefice in the Rev Geoff Price 01869 [email protected] 346262 David Taylor 01869 [email protected] 226906 Benefice Office 01869 [email protected] 233687 Services described as 1662, Matins or Evensong follow the traditional form as laid out in The Book of Common Prayer. Services described as CW (Common Worship) use modern language and follow the revised form given in the Common Worship Service and Prayer Book. Services described as Family Worship or Contemporary Worship are suitable for all ages, in- cluding children.

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CHURCH NEWS

The Forum Tuesday 4th November 7:30 pm

An informal discussion group exploring our Christian faith Please do join us as we look at the Book of Ephesians and how Experiences of the Holy Land By David Taylor it relates to our everyday life (our minister in training) today The Reading Room, School Lane Upper Heyford OX25 5LG Thursday evenings Family Church 7:30pm Christingle The Chapel Heyford Park Sunday 25th November 10:30 am St Mary’s Church, Souldern Monday Kids on Sunday evenings Sunday 4th November 7:30pm 10:00am Heyford Park (Now on the 1st Sunday of the month) Chapel Souldern Chapel If you are interested In art and crea- Messy Church! tivity, no matter how inexperienced, Sunday Create offers you the opportunity to th 18 Nov 4.00-5.30pm experiment, create or just watch and at St Olave’s Church, North Street, Fritwell enjoy the fellowship All ages are welcome for craft, stories, celebration & food If you would like to

Children need to bring an adult! Join us please do come along Everyone welcome - just come along Admission Free

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CHAPEL NEWS Fritwell Chapel Souldern Chapel

Congratulations to Souldern Chapel on an I am not keen on doing surveys especially excellent Harvest supper it was great to on the phone, even when they say there are only two questions. But I ask you which of meet old friends once again and celebrate these months, November, December or Jan- Harvest with a traditional service. uary do you think is the darkest and most dreary? I think that they all have something We have had some excellent services good to offer. November is a month when during the past few weeks, just pop in and almost all plant life goes to sleep and all join us you will be made very welcome things appear barren and cold. But don’t be and be surprised at the friendship you will too hasty, take a closer look. Evergreens receive. began to show their beauty, many garden plants like grasses appear dead but they leave us with wonderful colours. Why not Love to see you Sundays at 10-30am, take a second look? usually just under the hour, save on your heating and share ours. There are times in life when we feel that perhaps we are in the cold and barren plac- Preachers for November es and there is nothing to cheer us or cause us to thank and praise God. Sometimes the 4th Mr M. Bromall dark clouds of bereavement, sickness, un- 11th Remembrance Souldern Church certainty and doubt our view of God. 10-45am. We need to remember that He is still there 18th Mr Ian Timmis and is willing to respond to our cry. Even in th the dark times there are always evidences of 25 Mr. Ian Hearle God’s unfailing love and grace. Consider these words: Gods blessing to you all St. Matthew ch.28 verse 20. Some final Don Walker words of Jesus…. “I am with you always to Tel 346674 the very end of the age.”

We are now beginning our afternoon ser- Souldern vices at 2.30. p.m. The service lasts about Chapel one hour. We would like to welcome you. If you have had connections with a free Church worship in the past then come and reconnect.

Peace and blessings, Revd. John.

Preachers for November 4th. Mrs. Wendy Mandley 11th. Mr. & Mrs. D. Green 18th. Mr. Gareth Evans 25th. Visitor from St Ebbs Oxford

Fritwell Chapel

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ARDLEY w FEWCOTT NEWS HARVEST LUNCH EXCITEMENT

There was real drama at the Harvest Lunch in St. Mary’s Church on September 23rd. We were all sitting down and about to think about starting the meal when there was a sudden scream and flames shot up from the stove! At The McGarry family would like to first there was chaos as a nearby runner rug was thrown over the flames while the nearest thank all those who attended and to fire extinguisher was used to no effect. But the local ladies who baked for the re- then thanks to the swiftness of David McBride cent coffee morning in aid of Macmil- the CO2 extinguisher doused the fire— lan Cancer Support. thereby restoring calm and order. Thank you also to Eileen Binns, Eve No one was hurt and hardly any damage was Cox, and Chris Doe who helped man done. Lunch was a little late as there was tables and Peter and Gill and who some tidying up to do but the excitement helped with all the washing up. made quite a talking point during the meal! We raised an incredible amount of We all thanked those people who acted so £333.65 in just 2 hours which has quickly to make sure of everyone’s safety. A burnt rug and a plastic table cloth were the been doubled by Barclay’s Matched only casualties. Fundraising. The meal was a great success with plenty of STUDENTS: food for the 33 people who came along. A FEWCOTT FUEL ALLOTMENT TRUST wide selection enabled everyone to enjoy the IF you are about to go to university or are already on a course. food they liked best. IF you are in some form of job related training, or IF you attend other classes, say in the evening, to Thanks to all those who helped with this event learn vocational skills, either with ‘a strong arm, a steady hand at the wheel’, with setting up the tables and chairs in AND You are a resident of Fewcott or the surround- the Church, with cutlery/crockery/cruet sets/ ing area then FEWCOTT FUEL ALLOTMENT serving utensils/designing a quiz and giving a TRUST a small local charity may be able to assist prize, serving, clearing away and washing up you with a grant for books or other items or tools you require in connection with your studies. and general organisation. Gill and Martyn The Trust has helped a number of local residents Simmonds, Angela Chamberlain, Madeleine needing to purchase books and art equipment in Horn, Barbara Gow, Sheila and Ron Dean, connection with university and college courses. Val and Colin Williams, Brian and Madeleine Please apply in writing with your contact details, Gilpin, not forgetting David McBride and fami- what you need to buy, and why you think you ly and Ken Bolton who were such stalwarts should be considered for a grant to: when it came to coping with the fire.

Tikki Potter, 1 Ploughley Close (Tel.346709) Nicki Lewis, Penlington, Fritwell Road (Tel. 345424) Madeleine Horn, 19 Russet Road (Tel.346621)

This is a village charity and has NO connection with any outside agency. It was set up some years ago from proceeds from the sale of land. Interest on these moneys is for the benefit of villagers.

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ARDLEY w FEWCOTT NEWS

ARE YOU A FILM OR CAMERA BUFF OR Gilpin on 345269 and we will explain further. COLLECTOR: A collection of film and photo- DO CONTACT US TO SEE IF THERE IS graphic paraphernalia is being disposed of by SOME HELPFUL ADVICE YOU CAN OFFER. another collector, a relation of the Gilpins, who Please continue to keep an eye on lonely, is looking for a good home for these items and poorly or elderly neighbours and of course Mr. someone who will really care for them. If any- Brahmbhatt of Fewcott House is always de- one is interested and would like more infor- lighted when anyone can visit residents there. mation about this, please get in touch with Just give them a call on 01869 345501. They Brian and Madeleine on 345269. welcome visitors for pancakes and tea at 2pm on Thursdays. VIRIDOR LIAISON MEETING: This took place on Wednesday, 10th October. Unfortunately MOBILITY AIDS: Two wheelchairs and a AFECT’s representative was unable to be walker available for loan. Call 01869 345269. present but will a report will be put in the De- cember issue of the 3Ps once the Minutes are BICESTER FOOD BANK: Contact Angela received. Chamberlain (01869 345332), Madeleine Horn (01869 346621) or Madeleine Gilpin RENEE BARBER’S CHRISTMAS SHOPPING (01869 345269) if you can’t get to the collec- TRIP IN NOVEMBER: Once again Renee is tion points. If you need help from the food planning her timely and exciting Christmas bank, vouchers can be claimed from your Shopping Trip to Gloucester Quays, but stop- doctor, Social Services, Citizen's Advice Bu- ping off at Swindon Shopping Centre if you reau or a Church Vicar. wish, (you can choose where you want to shop) for Monday, 12th November 2018 leav- ROTA FOR NOVEMBER/DEC 2018: 4 Nov ing the Playing Fields Car Park at 8am by 1662 (8.30am) HC Brian Gilpin; 11 Nov Ange- coach for the cost of £20. Please contact la Chamberlain; 18 Nov Gill Simmonds; 25 Renee on 01869 346731 or 07979733438 for Nov Madeleine Horn; 2 Dec 1662(8.30am) more details. HC Madeleine Gilpin.

ST. MARY’S ANNUAL CHURCHYARD AU- AWF Church 49ers Club: Please return Data TUMN TIDY-UP: This took place on Saturday, Protection Forms asap. We are keen for new 27th October 2018. You know what they say, members. DO GET IN TOUCH WITH ME on ‘Many hands make light work’. We carried out 345269 when I can explain more fully what it work on the trees, outlying long grass and ivy, entails. I will be delighted to speak to you. getting rid, once again, of the terrible suckers Madeleine Gilpin from the Trees of Heaven (removed a couple of years ago but reappearing this year), col- lecting the fallen leaves and doing the last STRIDE EVENT: Many, grass cutting in order to get the Churchyard many thank yous to all prepared for the Winter. Many thanks to all those kind people who who helped including the team from Agrivert. supported this event in September. A grand total of over £1000 was raised. AFECT NEWS: AFECT We are looking for Brian and Madeleine are folk in this Village with the expertise and/or so grateful for the wonder- environmental and ecological knowhow who ful response from the Vil- would be willing to give advice to AFECT. This lage and friends which would NOT involve you in attending Meetings resulted in this fabulous but AFECT would love to hear from you for encouragement. It is very your scientific knowledge. Do get in touch with much appreciated. either Mike Stokes on 346612 or Madeleine

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ARDLEY w FEWCOTT NEWS Ardley and Fewcott Gardening Club so that transport can be arranged. If you are not a member but would like to join us, on one Hello, firstly on behalf of the Committee I of our events, to see what goes on, please would like to thank all our members for con- contact one of the Committee. tinuing to support all of the events, holidays and visits which are planned in response to I was in error in last month’s publication as we your requests. The Gardening Club is suc- have two and not one double room left on our cessful because of its membership’s open- 9th September to 13th September, 2019 holiday ness and welcoming attitude. If you are not a to Northumberland. As I’ve written before it member please contact one of the Committee promises to be an exceptional holiday at a or feel free to pop into one of our events. beautiful time of year. Just look at the colour of Well, I won’t be the first to notice that autumn the trees at present and the plethora of flowers is with us again with its crisp sunny days, still in bloom. That’s what we will be experienc- blowing leaves, wind and rain! At long last the ing amongst the RHS garden of Harlow Carr, gardens are receiving water, in some cases, Alnwick House and Gardens, Cragside House to nurture back the brown grasses left by the and Gardens and . Plus we will also incredible heat of the summer. be visiting the amazing open air living history Like many of you Ian and I have been har- museum of Beamish. We will stay in 4 star vesting the last of our growing crops and also accommodation and travel by executive coach sowing seeds and planting plug plants for the and all for the price of £419. The holiday can winter season. That’s the great thing about be confirmed by completing a booking form nature it’s always evolving and growing. We with a £15 deposit. No other money is due until have at last eaten the last of our Armenian June 2019. cucumbers…for those of you who are not aware, the cucumbers can grow up to a yard Chair: Jenny Price 07795 947014 long, and in fact the longest grown cucumber Secretary: Denise Turner 01869 345250 & was the Gardening Club Turner challenge 07925546735 this year. Some did grow to the expected Events: Sue Howkins 01869 369422 & length even! 07768989448 Thirty six members went along on the Gar- Events: Elaine Greenwood 01865 376860 & dening Club visit to the RHS garden at Hyde 07516007343 Hall. Once again the weather was good. I had never been before but thoroughly enjoyed the Ardley with Fewcott Village Hall extensive number of separate gardens and Looking for a Special Venue for a Children’s the prolific numbers of plant species, colours, Party? sizes and aromas. It was truly spectacular. This year, why not book the hall for your chil- Please note that events, visits and the holi- dren’s party! day are open to everyone, unless otherwise The spacious hall gives them masses of room stated and other dates for your diary include: to run around and has a high roof that can Sunday 25th November the annual meal: this easily accommodate a bouncy castle. There is a members’ only event and will take place are fairy lights from the ceiling to help make it at Kirtlington Golf course. special, a well stocked kitchen and, of course, Sunday 5th January will be afternoon social a fantastic play area outdoors. event in the Ardley and Fewcott Village Hall. For more information visit Wednesday, 13th February will be a lunchtime www.ardleywithfewcottvillagehall.com or to event with soup, roll, cake and tea or coffee, arrange to view the hall, contact again in the Ardley and Fewcott Village Hall. [email protected] Further details and booking slips for all the or call Natasha Feaver - 07467 549294. above events will be provided in due course. For scale of charges go to: If you have difficulty attending any of our http://ardleywithfewcottvillagehall.com/ events please contact one of the Committee bookings.html

17

FRITWELL NEWS

WORLD WAR ONE FRITWELL VILLAGE HALL EVENING CUSHION CLUB FILM NIGHT

Monthly screening. Pay annually or on the night.

Join us for an hour or so of songs and readings to commemorate the centenary of the end of World War I in 1918

ST OLAVE’S CHURCH nd 2 November at 6pm 3rd Friday of the month doors open 7.30, film starts at 8 Free Entry Tea and Biscuits from Wine bar open 5.30pm ice cream in the interval Donations to Help the Heroes www.fritwellvillagehall.co.uk 0r call 01869 346697

FRITWELL VILLAGE HALL NEWS Fritwell Forget Me Nots

Sunday 18th November 2018 at 7.30pm. Open Our October meeting was in Fritwell Village Mic Night. These events are proving to be suc- Hall and we had a Fish and Chip meal. We cessful. Go to www.fritwellvillagehall.co.uk for more information. Thanks to everyone involved in could not have had a better service. organising these events and the musicians taking George from the Burberry Fish and Chip part. shop in Bicester delivered Fish and Chips Thursday 13th December our Christmas Quiz to all of us. They were delicious and piping Party Night. Lots of Prizes to be won. Bar Open. hot. The meeting was a great success. Bring a plate of food to share. All welcome. Watch out in the New Year for our Welcome to The latest lucky numbers to win the 90 club Fritwell Notice Board. More information next month. are Ian Turner number 40 and Don Walker Dates to follow - Chinese Takeaway Evening, number 34. Fish and Chip Supper Night and 2 Summer BBQs. Want to hire Fritwell Village Hall? Simply go to our Our next outing is 13th November—a shop- website, www.fritwellvillagehall.co.uk Follow the ping trip to Bedford leaving Bicester at link to bookings, on the calendar check the date 9.30. The cost is £14.00. Please let Viv or you want is free, complete the booking form, read Doreen know as soon as possible if you and accept our Terms and Conditions of hire and email to us. We will confirm your booking. wish to go. Our website is always up to date with Fritwell Vil- If you would like any further details of future lage Hall News and information about other events in the Village. It is the place to go for Fritwell news. meetings please phone Viv on 01869 346771 or Glynis 01869 345319.

18

FRITWELL NEWS

MACMILLAN FRITWELL PARISH COUNCIL FUND RAISING TEA AND CAKE 13TH OCTOBER 2018 SPECIAL PROJECTS The meeting in September raised the matter The afternoon in the Village Hall was a huge of village improvement projects again. Coun- success. It was really well attended, the at- cillors spoke in favour of a replacement tree, mosphere was great and, best of all, we surrounding bench and decorative planting in raised well in excess of £400 with some dona- the cemetery and added village noticeboards tions still to come in. to the ideas list. Residents are asked to con- sider the suggestions listed on the Parish We are hugely grateful to all those who pro- Council website and let the Parish Clerk know vided so many delicious cakes, a raffle prize if they have any comments, opinions or further or simply made a donation. Without them and ideas to add to the list. Our November meet- their good will it could not have happened. ing will try to prioritise and agree future spend- ing. Our enormous thanks go to Amanda Fox, Rosemary Dockrey, Sheila Delahunt, Josie THE POND Kearey and Kate Duffy who helped tirelessly The work by Oxfordshire County Council to throughout the day and Mike Dockrey, Ian rebuild the wall and replace the fencing is now Critchley and Alistair Lowdon who helped set complete, including a small gated access to up and clear away the tables. assist with maintenance. Residents and vil- lage organisations are reminded that posters Thank you again from Glynis Lowdon and and notices must not be fixed to the new Helen Metcalfe. fence. The area needs to be made more at- tractive. The Parish Council will monitor the st water levels and plant growth before trying to 1 Fritwell Scout Group plan future improvements and set up a maintenance programme. If you have any ideas or expertise to offer we’d love to hear JUMBLE SALE from you.

BOTTLE BANK 10th November at 2 pm There is still no solution to the siting of a new bottle bank facility in the village. Residents are asked to suggest potential locations for the Parish Council to follow up. Fritwell Village Hall SPEEDWATCH This is an important fund raising event for the The Speedwatch group has been out this Group as monies raised subsidises our Cub month monitoring our traffic and contributing and Scout camps. to keeping our village safe. But we need more volunteers. If you are one of the residents If you have any jumble that you could donate who complain about speeding traffic in the please see the contact details below. village, please consider sparing an hour occa- sionally to help on a Speedwatch session. Raffle prizes are always help- ful and help on the day is es- WINTER RESILIENCE pecially valued. The Council is planning its winter resilience actions. Equipment, grit supplies and bins are Please contact us at being checked. We are considering the pur [email protected] (ctd on p23)

19

SOULDERN NEWS

Souldern United Charity TO BOOK Registered Charity number 1002942 SOULDERN VILLAGE HALL Please contact A local Charitable Trust to provide financial Kate Green—07812 501604 help, support and relief confidentially to [email protected] residents and affiliates of the village HIRE CHARGES community. Souldern Groups Anyone in need of financial assistance, £7 per hour (up to 5 hrs.) perhaps towards purchase of tools, books, £40 per day (more than 5 Hours) equipment, etc. can request help either Deposit £50 personally or by proxy nomination through Souldern residents another Souldern resident OR seek a £8 per hour (up to 5 hrs.) Deposit £50 contribution towards the cost of essential £70 per day (more than 5 Hours) repair work using local trades people, when Non-Residents Hire Costs: immediate hardship exists. £15 per hour (up to 5 hrs.) £130 per day (more than 5 Hours) Help has been given previously for: Deposit £100 •Educational benefit to students or school Block bookings 6+ sessions £14 per leavers moving into higher education or hour undertaking apprenticeships. •Promoting personal development. •Alleviating hardship in exceptional times of need, including Christmas Vouchers for some residents over 60 or in particular distress.

•Contributing towards expenses incurred with frequent hospital visits. •Enabling useful employment to be gained or maintained. ime to Talk Please apply in writing to Susan Jones, Souldern Village Hall Charity Secretary, Yew Cottage, Bates Lane, 11:00—12:30 Souldern, OX277JU, outlining the particular 1st Wednesday of each month case you wish to highlight and the committee will be pleased to consider it confidentially and sympathetically, within the Charity Thank you to everyone who so kindly donated guidelines. food items for Harvest which were again given to Polly who feeds the homeless in Banbury. Other trustees who can be contacted for Polly is coming on Wednesday 7th Novem- information are; Chris Rothero, Carol ber to tell us all us all about the work that she Couzens, Norma Jones, Geoff Price, David does so please do come and hear her story Blunt and Sue Medhurst, who is also your and if you are able to bring any more tins or contact point for allocation of allotments. dried foods I know they will be much appreci- ated. Souldern United Charity Charity Land—fireworks displays Souldern Village Hall 100 Club Use of Charity land for firework displays September 2018 Winners requires permission. Adequate provision of Alex Smith—£20 Dr Rosie Sanders—£10 insurance must be provided. Any of the Thank you to all who have contributed to the 100 Trustees can be contacted for this purpose Club. ITo join please contact Mary May at 2 Chapel (see Souldern United Charity details above). Row or 01869 341053—£10 per year.

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Souldern in the Great War 1914-18

The untold stories of the villagers who lost their lives

In 1911 the population of Souldern was 396 with just under half that number being male. A total of 75 men either living or born in the village left their homes to fight for King and Coun- try between 1914 and 1918. Tragically 17 would never return.

‘Souldern in the Great War 1914- 18’ is by means of recognising their great sacrifice and pays homage to the village that has thrived so wonderfully in the 100 years since the end of the First World War. The book tells their story, using a wide array of mate- rials that are now available to modern researchers. From their beginning in or around Souldern through to their development across the various fronts in World War 1, it covers their stories in- cluding their fighting, and ultimately dying, for King and Country.

Written by villagers, about villagers, this 375 page book is an act of dedication timed to coincide with 100th year commemoration of the armistice on November 11th 1918 and is available to order from [email protected]. Price £9.99 / Concessions £7.50

21

THE ARTS

Fritwell’s got talent Hynes who sang and played guitar to self penned songs. Under the Frets and Strings Liverpool had the Cavern and the banner Carl provides tuition to budding local Marquee Club. Now there’s a hothouse for guitarists of all skill levels, some of whom per- musical talent based in Fritwell Village Hall. formed during the evening. The Open Mic night, held on Sunday, Septem- ber 30, showcased guitar and vocal perfor- He then accompanied his daughter Jenny, an mances by musicians ranging from early accomplished vocalist who sang a very differ- teens to the slightly longer in the tooth. All the ent version of Katrina and the Waves’ acts were impressive, winning enthusiastic ‘Walking on Sunshine’. Singer/guitarist Han- applause from an appreciative audience. The nah Stewart joined Jenny on the stage for a convivial atmosphere was further enhanced rendition of Ed Sheeran’s ‘The A Team’, while by the availability of a licensed bar. Elvis Costello fans were catered for with two songs from Carl accompanied on bass and Ian Critchley, Chairman of the Fritwell Village vocals by Paul Walder. Hall Committee and one of the event organis- ers, explained the thinking behind the Open Musical comedy was provided by Ian Critchley Mic nights: ‘Our message is “All Styles, All and Jim Pace who had everyone in stitches levels and All Ages Welcome” and we really with their satirical ditties. They sang about mean it. We particularly want to encourage Brexit and President Trump supporters, as young people from these villages to become well as renowned Fritwell retailer, Wrightons, involved. It’s very encouraging to see the tal- with particular mention of Gordon’s famous ent that’s out there. That said, people of more sausage. mature years are also very welcome to bring their instrument and have a go. It can be Another of Carl’s students, Jay Mac, had trav- daunting to play solo in front of an audience elled from and wowed the audience so novice performers can play in a group to with a medley of tunes that demonstrated his gain experience’. immense raw talent as a guitarist and singer. This was the second Open Mic concert. The The evening, which appealed to a wide range next one is planned for Sunday, November of musical tastes, was kicked off by Carl 18.

22

OUT AND ABOUT

Dogs in the garden – help or hindrance? cue a creature from the jaws of a Jack Rus- sell, you will know it is an impossible task. I’ve started my great Autumn clearance now, Feeling slightly sick I bravely continued work- although the asters are still going strong and it ing and tried to ignore the carnage. He fin- seems a shame to cut them down. At this time ished what he was doing, came and lay down of year, I just want to get rid of all the dead on my freshly dug border and looked lovingly herbaceous plants, prune any shrubs that up at me. need it and weed over the beds. That way It’s great to have the companionship of a dog when Spring comes I can see the snowdrops, when one is working in the garden, but some- crocuses and other small bulbs and I know times you have to take the rough with the there is room for the tulips and daffodils to smooth – a bit like the frog I suppose! come up. Clearing up now makes it easier to plant any new bulbs. Sally Hoe So this morning, a lovely warm morning when the soil was at last workable after the heavy rain at the weekend, I gathered up fork, seca- teurs and trug, planning to enjoy a couple of hours working in the garden. My terrier thought it a great idea too and out he came, all bright eyed and bushy tailed (well … bushy stumped I guess you would say as he is a Jack Russell). If I could only train him to dig where I want to plant something he would make my life so much easier. He can dig much faster and deeper than I can. Unfortu- nately, he usually does this in the middle of a flower bed in his pursuit of his deadly enemy – moles. This morning he had a good sniff round and couldn’t find a scent of a mole, but (ctd from p19) saw that I had left a hole where I had taken out an Alchemilla Mollis. I suppose he thought chase of a hand-operated gritter for pave- I needed a larger hole there and started to ments in the village which can be deployed as help me – by the time I saw what he was do- soon as significant frost and ice is forecast. ing it was certainly a much larger hole. It’s OK For your information the OCC gritter routes to yell at Jack Russells as they have nerves of include the Fewcott Road from Ardley, right steel and and bounce back from any repri- onto East Street past the school and along the mand. road towards Souldern. Other parts of the After that, I carried on calmly weeding and village can only rely on the efforts of the Par- cutting down in the border. The dog was ish Council and local residents to keep roads prancing around sniffing at flowers and gener- and pavements safe this winter. ally looking for something to amuse him. I warned him that he would get stung if he kept GEORGE AND DRAGON DEVELOPMENT sniffing at the odd bee still buzzing around, Residents will have noticed that work has now but he took no notice. Then I thought he had begun on the George and Dragon site. 7 been stung as he was shaking his head and houses will be built, 4 to the front of the site jumping around. I told him that it served him and 3 to the rear on the right side. 14 parking right and carried on with my work. A while spaces are planned. This modified application later I realised he was tossing something in was passed in May 2018. the air and saw that it was part of a frog. Too late to rescue it as it was already dismem- Next meeting: Village Hall Monday November bered. Anyway, if you have ever tried to res- 26th 7.30pm

23

OUT AND ABOUT

Madeleine’s Madeira Meanderings Oxfordshire Day—who knew?

Having just returned from Madeira, some- The feast day of the patron saint of the city where completely different from this Country, I and university of Oxford, St Frideswide is on look at the amazing way plants grow in warm- October 19th. er conditions. Begonias and hibiscus for ex- ample grow simply enormous, with great long Wikipedia tells us that Saint Frithuswith (c. stems for the begonias and huge, colourful, 650 – 19 October 727; also known as beautiful hibiscus flowers. THEIR rubber tree Frideswide, Fritheswith, Fritheswit, Frevisse plants are huge trees with enormous trunks or simply Fris) was an English princess you cannot put your arms around. Ours are a and abbess. She is credited with establishing little less large, I think! a religious site later incorporated into Christ Church in Oxford – Frithuswith was the first It is exciting to see different plants and ani- abbess of this Oxford double monastery. mals. I love sea swimming and I was fortu- Frithuswith was the daughter of a Mercian nate enough to be able to enjoy crystal, clear sub-king named Dida of Eynsham, whose seas with multitudes of fish of all kinds such lands occupied western Oxfordshire and the as sea bream, wrasse, parrot fish, pipe fish upper reaches of the River Thames. and fish I was told were ‘grunts’. Lovely col- ours and really friendly. I even had one or two Frideswide died some 250 years before Frit- come up and try to nibble my fingers. It was a well’s Saint Olave (Olaf) was born in Norway. new experience and most entertaining. It is understood that several of Olaf’s men were driven into St Frideswide’s church in With the wonderful, scorching sunshine, of Oxford during the struggle against the Danes course, can come some tremendous storms in the early second millennium and the and we had two of these. The first was over church was burnt around them. The remain- very quickly but, alas, left that beautiful crystal ing men fled on to Peterborough, probably sea full of silt from a nearby river, but the sec- passing close to our three parishes on their ond was something else. It was the fringe of way. Hurricane Leslie and I have never seen seas like these at this place with some waves and Frideswide’s patronage of Oxford was de- spray reaching above 20 feet high and clared by the Archbishop of Canter- splashing right across the sea frontage where bury Henry Chichele in 1440. Her feast we were staying to crash against the walls of day is 19 October, the traditional day of her the building. Scary but absolutely fascinating! death; the date of her translation is also com- We were quite safe as the staff knew what memorated on 12 February. In art, she is was coming and prepared well in advance for depicted holding the pastoral staff of it and, of course, made absolutely sure that an abbess, a fountain springing up near her their customers stayed secure and safe. Nat- and an ox at her feet. The fountain probably urally they were obliged to restrict access to represents the holy well at Binsey. She ap- danger spots and people obeyed sensibly. pears in medieval stained glass, and in Pre- This storm was a three day wonder but amaz- Raphaelite stained glass by Edward Burne- ingly, and this is a mystery to me, the sea, Jones in Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford, in which I expected to be well churned up at the the chapel where her shrine is also located. end of it all, turned out as clear and clean as the first week of our holiday. Alas it was too Oxfordshire County Council chairman Gill late for us as it was the day of our return. Sanders was asked by a Bicester Advertiser journalist if she knew of Oxfordshire Day. Ah well, it was lovely whilst it lasted. Now it is She said: “I wasn’t actually aware of it and I down to earth with a bang and back to the was really surprised”. She called for more to steady routine and beauty of our countryside. be done to celebrate in future.

24

NOSTALGIA

Reminiscences of a country childhood raised to 14, but he missed the chance. So, Part Two he left at 14 and began his working life as a mason. He was working before then though – Children had a lot of freedom to roam around doing farm work, helping his father and rela- and Don remembers going off for the day with tives. He earned very little money at first, and a ‘fishing rod’ or stick, string and bent pin—no most of what he earned he had to give to his permits in those days. The kids would also Mum for his keep. Times were still hard, alt- shout at a character known as ‘Dooker’, as hough things started to change a bit after the they called him. He was a tramp, and they war ended. had to run off quickly before he caught them! The kids also had fun sometimes playing During his teens Don met and courted Ruth ‘Knock down Ginger’ which meant knocking and they married in 1955 and he moved to on someone’s door, rushing off to hide with Fritwell. Don continues: your friends and giggling like mad when a puzzled housewife came to the door and General ways of travel found no one there. Of course, if the woman saw who was messing about, she would ei- There were two early morning buses both ther clip their ear or threaten to tell their par- double deckers. These buses came from the ents, because of course she would know ex- bus depot in Bicester and went to Oxford, actly where they lived. travelling through Ardley, Fritwell, Somerton, Heyfords, Kirtlington and . The There was a bus to Banbury, which Don and journey taking about an hour. At that time his friends would catch on a Saturday morn- Fritwell to Somerton Road was wide enough ing to go to the cinema when they were older. for two buses to pass, there were no pull ins But the annual fair in Banbury was a big in those days. The return buses left Oxford event. It meant a whole day out for all the quarter past each hour in the evening. family and was a real treat. There was also a bus to Banbury about 7.15am. Each Week day it started from Ded- When war was declared in 1939, Don was dington and came via and Som- about 5 or 6. By that time his family had erton. This was owned by Mr Stanley Hall, it moved to a council house in Hempton Road, was called a “utility bus” and had wooden a little way out of Deddington. This was a slatted seats. good move for the family to a modern house with all mod cons, instead of living in an old Of course there were many other forms of cottage. How different to nowadays when transport. Most people had a bicycle and many people prefer old stone cottages to some would cycle to Ardley to catch the train modern houses. He remembers a neighbour to Banbury. Others cycled to Bicester to work coming to the house and telling the boys ‘not at RAF Bicester. Bikes weren’t the same as to go into Deddnum as War had been De- today’s – they were much heavier with chain clared’. Remember he was only 5, but he was guards and carriers some at the front and the obviously free to run around where he want- rear with a child’s seat on the crossbar. A few ed. In fact, all the boys played football in the people had small motor bikes mainly BSA square at Deddington. During the war both Bantams and the odd Triumph Tiger Cub. British and American soldiers were billeted in One person had a motor bike and sidecar to Deddington. The children used to run after take his wife to work but she would ride pillion the jeeps asking ‘Got any gum, chum’ and the unless it was pouring with rain. But one chap Americans would throw them some (highly bought an auto bike I saw him one morning prized) gum. walking down Somerton Road pushing his bike so I stopped and said, “Have you broken Don wasn’t a great scholar and would happily down Bert?” He said “No, if I ride all the way I have left school before the leaving age was get there too early so I always walk a bit”!

25

PICTURES

Carl and Jenny Hynes get the show on the road at the Fritwell Open Mic night (story p22)

POLICE & CRIME COMMISSIONER NEWS Abuse can sometimes be unintentional and has come about because a carer is struggling Matthew Barber, Deputy Police and Crime to cope with their caring role. Commissioner for Thames Valley announced funding for several projects, of which one is Age UK Oxfordshire works to ensure that old- the prevention of Elder Abuse. er people who have suffered, or are at risk of suffering, harm from abuse are supported and As we get older we can sometimes find our- not left to deal with their situation alone. selves in a situation where we are not being treated properly. More often than not the per- If you have concerns about an older person, son involved is someone we trust. It may be a or maybe you are a carer of an older person relation or a paid carer or someone who we reaching the end of your tether and need to rely on. This can make it very difficult to know talk to someone, please call 0345 450 1276. what to do. Further information: Abuse is an act, or a lack of action, that oc- https://www.osab.co.uk/ curs in a relationship where there is an expec- https://www.elderabuse.org.uk/ tation of trust, which causes harm or dis- Or call the Action on Elder Abuse helpline tress to an older person. on 0808 808 8141 (open 9—5 weekdays).

26

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Ackerman Oil Fuel 35 Ian King Fitness 33 Ardley Dogwalking Pets 34 James Hearing Hearing 38 Aynho Amusements Bouncy Castle 42 James, Robin Carpenter 35 Banbury Memorials Funeral Director 37 JPD Travel Taxi 34 Bicester Computer Centre Computers 34 Lawrence Furnishings Interior Décor 38 Birdie and Roo Gifts 34 Leisure Buildings Outdoor buildings 40 Blake, AP Wood fuel 38 Loakes, AL Boiler engineer 35 Bowler, Lucy Fashion 43 Maskell Flooring Flooring 36 Complementary thera- McGarry, R Plumber 35 Brackley Clinic py 44 Mels Manicures Manicures 36 Bullshead Garage Mechanic 37 Nolan Oils Fuel 33 CB Bathrooms Bathrooms 32 Oxford Stone & Marble Stonework 36 Chimney Chimney Sweep 41 Ozog, Kenneth Decorating 42 Chimney Doctor Chimney Sweep 41 P Southam Home maintenance 32 Computerpro Computers 38 Prentice Fuels Fuel 32 Cridland Estate Agent Estate Agent 39 Ridge Cain Decorating 41 Croft Tree Services Tree Surgery 35 RT Gardens Gardening 35 Cupboard Love Furniture 35 Smith, NP Decorating 42 Distinctive Resins Driveways, patios 44 Spittle, R Decorating 42 Fox, Wallace Carpenter 40 Staples Building Builder 32 Gray, Bob Carpenter 36 Stewart, Mike Digital Music 33 Great Barn venue Wedding Venue 37 Video Vibe Photography 40 Guard, Shaun TV Aerials 39 Village Web Design Web Design 40 Hamilton Gould Architects 42 Wakelin, R J Decorating 42 Westend Tennis & Hart Vets Vet 43 Squash Sports 39 Home Footcare Footcare 42 Wrightons Shop & Post Office 32 Hynes, Carl Music Tuition 41

Contact [email protected] Advertise from just £3.50 per issue: Tel: 07788 560 174 ¼PAGE £70, ½ PAGE £140, whole page £280 The advertising year runs from January. Letters, comments, articles, drawings, pictures, Deadlines—3rd Friday of the month (issues are opinions etc. are very welcome. Whilst the editors delivered on or near 1st of month) do not necessarily agree with the content of contri- butions and reserve the right to edit for space, all Dec 2018/Jan 2019 November 16th are considered equally. If your item is not time- February 2019 January 18th sensitive, it will not necessarily be included in the March 2019 February 15th first issue after you submit it. All contributions by April 2019 March 15th email will be acknowledged. May 2019 April 19th June 2019 May 17th For contributions and subscriptions, e-mail is the July 2019 June 21st best way to contact us, but you can dictate an arti- Aug/Sept 2019 July 19th cle by phone to the editor if you don’t have a com- October 2019 September 20th puter. November 2019 October 18th

Business Advertisements Find the PDF colour version of the magazine here: Email: [email protected] https://3parishesnews.wordpress.com/ Tel: 07833 383 563 Rates for 10 issues (1 year—prices under review) Printing by the Cherwell Valley Benefice Office

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A.E.PRENTICE FUEL MERCHANTS

A family business Established in 1864

QUALITY BRITISH COAL SMOKELESS FUELS KILN DRIED LOGS BOTTLED GAS

We are a family business, ensuring a reliable and caring delivery service, offering the best prices! REGULAR DELIVERIES ALL YEAR ROUND

01869 346800 www.coal4you.co.uk Souldern Gate Garage Souldern Bicester OXON OX27 7HT

PETER SOUTHAM Building & Home Maintenance Service * Roofing, guttering, chimney problems Carpentry, fencing, brick/stonework, concrete paths, drives, patios & Garage Doors t: 01869 250861 Insurance approved m:07773 853640 *For a personal service Ring 01869 278333 or 07721 633220

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HEALTH AND FITNESS FOR ALL WITH IAN KING

Personal Training Sessions for all age- groups and fitness levels with Ian King, who is a local PT and Sports Massage Therapist:

07990 580779, [email protected]

Over 35 years’ experience of the health and fitness industry. Training which in- corporates a large range of equipment and training methods. The potential for excellent results and a life changing decision. An ideal Birthday Gift. Discount for block bookings.

IT IS NEVER TOO LATE TO IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH AND FITNESS ikfitness.win

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Bicester Computer Centre Making I.T. work for you Est. 1999 Providing helpful, professional and friendly advice • We stock most hardware from full computers to mice, wired and wireless networking components. • We also repair and service all makes of desktop and laptop computer form hardware replacement to virus removal. • PC running slow or overheating laptop DC jack socket or screen broken? Bullguard antivirus approved re- • Home visits arranged seller with local support

Give us a call on: Email: [email protected] 01869 600123 or 07796 486508 Website:www.bicestercomputercentre.co.uk Or pop into the shop: 50 Bucknell Road Local and fully independent Bicester OX26 2DG

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ROBERT McGARRY YOUR LOCAL PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEER Hackertys Way, Mill Lane, Souldern Telephone: 01869 345280

ROBIN JAMES YOUR LOCAL CARPENTER & JOINER Telephone: 07931 661001

A L LOAKES Oil Fired Boiler Service & Repairs Tel: 01295 269718 / 07966 533524

ACKERMAN & NIECE Purveyors of superior petroleum products Finest service & keenest prices to Three Parishes customers We look forward to your call Tel: 01869 340202 Fax: 01869 340074

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MELS MANICURES in Fewcott

SHELLAC & GEL MANICURES & PEDICURES EYE LASH EXTENSION EXPERT INDIVIDUAL LASHES & RUSSIAN VOLUME SPRAY TANNING, WAXING, FACIALS

Please call Mel for appointments 07704 523 682

WAXING Please call Mel for appointments

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TYRES BATTERIES

BULLSHEAD GARAGE (SOULDERN) LTD

01869 345281

MOT Testing Station

Servicing & Repairs to most Makes of Cars & Light Commercial Vehicles

Most Credit Cards accepted

EXHAUSTS SHOCK ABSORBERS

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LOGS FOR SALE

A & P BLAKE FORESTRY SERVICES Quality seasoned hardwood split logs for sale, various sizes logs & loads available. Free Local Delivery!!! 01869 277815 or 07970 258165

We have 30 years experience in Oxfordshire so try us today!

Full diagnostic Hearing Tests ● Latest Digital Hearing Aids ● Troubleshooting/ Reprogramming ● Servicing & Repairs ● Batteries ● Noise Protection ● Swimplugs ● Up to 60 day trial period

Practice Rooms in Horton Hospital and John Radcliffe Hospital ● Home Visits available. Souldern based family business. Tel. 0845 680 1227 / 07974735811 Email: [email protected] www.jameshearing.com

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Hand-crafted animal houses

✓ Poultry Sheds ✓ Dog Kennels ✓ Hutches ✓ Built to last

We have various models & sizes available or we can manufacture to your own specifi- cations. Contact Adrian on: 01869 345753 or 07984592080 or visit us at: www.foxanimalhouses.co.uk

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INTERIOR DECORATING BY LADIES RIDGECAIN

For all your interior painting and deco- rating needs!

Call: 07787 377186

Email: [email protected]

Covering Oxfordshire and

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Home Footcare R.J. Wakelin

Do your feet need me? Painting And

Decorating Specialist • Toenails trimmed Private/Commercial • Corns and Callus treated Interior/Exterior • Dry cracked heels 01869 243264 • Medical Pedicure • Nails painted if required. Kenneth Ozog Your local painter and decorator • High quality sterilised equipment Free quotes • Fully qualified and insured Over 20 years experience •

Angie Ward North Street, Fritwell 07796 881 157 01869 345507 or 07941 626984 [email protected] e-mail: [email protected] R.SPITTLE & Sons N P SMITH PAINTERS & DECORATORS PAINTING, DECORATING & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE FOR ALL YOUR DECORATIVE NEEDS Interior & Exterior Work Undertaken 25 Years Experience Tel : 01869 252494 Local & Reliable Mobile: 07768 100156 Email: [email protected] Contact Nick 01280 840496 or 07979 756734

BOUNCY CASTLES hga Slides and Games Architectural Consultants AVAILABLE FOR YOUR CHILDRENS Drawing for new build, alterations and extensions PARTY, INDOORS OR OUTDOORS Planning and building regulations Residential and Commercial FROM AYNHO AMUSEMENTS TEL Ed on: 01869 810808 Hamilton Gould Associates Ltd MOBILE: 07811 225698 Tower Fields, Souldern, Bicester OX27 7HY Tel: 01869 345156 www.aynho-bouncy-castles.co.uk Email: [email protected]

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Chiropractic Complementary Therapies • Back pain • Neck and shoulder pain • Hip, Knee, Elbow • Chiropody/Podiatry Problems • Physiotherapy • Joint pain, stiffness • Massage • Headaches • Reflexology • Care in Pregnancy • Hypnotherapy GCC Registered McTimoney Chiropractors—gentle, effective • Dyslexia Assessment treatment, suitable for all ages • Counselling (incl children)

Call 01280 703389 or visit 48 Burgess Square, www.brackleyclinic.co.uk Brackley (Near Costa)

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