Hilltop News

December 2016 & January 2017 Season’s Greetings

hristmas cards, I am reminded, first Cover picture appeared in England during the mid- Our school was asked 19th Century and were adopted by if some of the children C would like to design a other countries about 20 years later. Once festive front cover for exclusively a Christian gift, cards are now this edition of Hilltop widely used in non-Christian parts of the News. They relished the world as well. opportunity. Thanks to The first cards usually pictured the Year 6 teacher Caroline Nativity scene. In Victorian times the robin Davey for organising her class, who produced some became popular because postmen at that very artistic interpretations time were nicknamed ‘Robin Postmen’ of the Christmas message. Our choice this time was because of the red uniform they wore. This, painted by Lottie Dickinson-Lomas. Thank you to by the way, didn’t influence our choice for all Year 6 for your efforts. our front cover illustration! Snow scenes became popular after the particularly Also in this issue: snowy winter of 1836. Michael Joseph cycles for Charity Looking ahead to 2017, our Commons Preservation Society has produced another Cllr Chris Brown gets well-earned lovely calendar featuring photos recording recognition life on and around our commons. Don’t Plus our regular features… delay in securing your copy… In his Nature Notes Chris Brown uncovers the secrets of autumn changes. Goodbye Alan Our Curvaceous Cook serves up a treat in a pumpkin When I compiled pen pictures of the 1985 …plus all the news from our churches, Hawridge & Cholesbury Cricket Club team school, pubs, clubs, councils and societies. members for the Centenary Handbook, I described Alan Brown as ‘the voice’ of the Club. That familiar Bucks drawl will sadly be heard no more, but never forgotten by anyone associated with the Club. Born, raised and lived just along the road from the cricket ground he cherished and looked after, Alan was a familiar sight for decades; whether playing, umpiring or preparing the pitch. Tributes to Alan, a true Hilltop Village character, are in this issue…Ed

The Hilltop News team wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

Hilltop News 3 THE PARISH COUNCIL plot has become available. If anyone would namely those in the following groups: Putting your pet into boarding? like to take it over, please get in touch. • anyone visiting the centre in a van or Most people know that if they put their In addition to the usual activities of the Planning other commercial vehicle dog or cat into boarding kennels, those council, this autumn has seen a great deal The planning appeals on the refusal • anyone towing a twin-axle or larger premises need to be licensed. But few of discussion with both the District and for change of use and the subsequent single-axle trailer realise that a licence is needed by anyone County Councils on their possible plans for enforcement notice for The White Lion • anyone wishing to dispose of asbestos who takes care of a dog or a cat for a fee some form of Unitary Authority (where the were heard in May and June by the • anyone arriving at the centre on foot in their own home or in premises other workings of both types of councils would Planning Inspectorate. Both of the appeals So anyone with general waste or than the owner’s home. This means some be combined in an effort to save money). were dismissed and the enforcement notice recycling in a car (including 4x4s and MPVs) people, keen to be helpful and board Fido Discussions are at a relatively early stage, will be upheld by the District Council. will not need a waste permit - and these or Felix while you’re away for a few days, with both District and County Councils Defibrillator make up the vast majority of visitors. For may unwittingly be breaking the law. setting out their separate visions for the A new defibrillator awareness session has those that do need a permit, the process for Dog walkers are not required to hold a future and giving Parish and Town Councils been booked for Saturday 21 January obtaining it has changed. licence unless the dog is cared for at the the opportunity to comment. However, if 2017 from 10am to 12noon at Cholesbury Previously, permits were ordered by the dog walker’s property. Anyone wishing to a consensus can be reached between the Village Hall. If you would like to attend, resident either online or on the phone, and look after a dog or cat for a fee or operate two levels of authority, then you as Bucks please send me an email. There is space for then the Council would send the permit(s) a boarding kennel or cattery will need a residents will be bound to hear more of it approximately 20 attendees. You may also by post. The process has now changed and licence from the local authority. The licence in 2017. wish to cut out and keep the usage notes become fully digital, making it faster, more will stipulate the number of animals that lso, the council has been in printed near the back of this edition of convenient for residents, and more cost- may be kept at the premises along with consultation on the District’s Local Hilltop News. efficient for the Council. other specific conditions. These licences Under the new system, a resident APlan. There are 15 Green Belt sites Rights of way preservation and conditions are to ensure the welfare applies for the permit online at the County that are suggested for development in You may remember that in the last edition of families’ pets when they need to be Council website, and the permit is available order to meet some housings needs for of the Hilltop News I included an appeal temporarily placed in the trust of one of instantly along with a digital QR code – the next 20 years. None are in this parish: for volunteers to take on a task to preserve these businesses. Anyone wishing to check similar to a barcode. The QR code can then the nearest being in Chesham, but these our rights of way for the future, as from 1st if their current dog sitter holds a valid be presented at the Household Recycling possible developments will still affect where January 2026, it will no longer be possible licence, please contact the licensing team Centre, either directly on a smartphone we travel and shop and the appearance of to use documentary evidence to claim ‘lost on 01494 732258. or tablet, or as a print-out from a home our neighbourhood. If you have not had rights-of-ways’. Any path, track, alleyway, There is more information on our computer. The QR code can be read by the chance to review and comment on the bridleway, cut-through, etc. not registered websites: Chiltern District Council; devices carried by Recycling Centre staff, plans, the closing date is 12 December. on a ‘Definitive Map’ could be in danger of www.chiltern.gov.uk/animalboarding giving them the information they need to Go to www.chiltern.gov.uk/planning/ being lost forever. I am pleased to say that Any queries regarding the Parish please let the person go ahead with their visit. localplan2014-2036 to find the relevant our Parish now has a couple of volunteers, get in touch… Although this new system has many information and feedback forms. one to walk the paths and the other to Hayley Lewis, Clerk to the Council, 758843 advantages, the Council does accept that Roads document them. I am sure they would [email protected] there may be some individuals who do In time for the start of the winter weather, appreciate some support, so if you are not have access to a smartphone or home the council is pleased that, thanks to interested and would like to find out more computer. In these instances, the person the determined efforts of Cllr Allen, the about what is involved, please contact the should visit their local library, where a majority of the necessary road repairs project coordinator rossosborn41@gmail. member of staff will be happy to help them Your councillors are: have been completed. However, we com directly and he will gladly give more through the online permit application and John Allen, Chairman: 758095 are aware that there are still notable details. then print out the permit for them on the exceptions and are continuing to apply Nigel Blomfield, 758314 Changes to Recycling Centre permit process spot. Alternatively, the person may prefer pressure to the County Council, who cite Chris Brown, 758890 The County Council has for many years to ask a friend or family member to help budgetary restraints as their reasons for not operated a permit system at the county’s them through the process. Philip Matthews, 758205 completing all of the necessary works. Household Recycling Centres. However, To find out more, or to apply for John Minting, 758206 Allotments permits – which are free to Bucks residents a permit, please go to the following Francis Sanger, 758767 - have always only been needed by a small Following contract renewals at the web page: http://www.buckscc.gov.uk/ Judith Joseph: 758702 allotments earlier in the autumn, one whole proportion of people using the centres, wastepermit

4 Hilltop News Hilltop News 5 HS2 continues to be an absolute priority THE COUNTY COUNCIL with the county council responsible for A Buckinghamshire agreeing to both permanent and temporary road works. We are determined that traffic Healthcare company, disruption will be kept to a minimum Mediplus, who this during the construction phase and I shall year won the Queen’s work energetically to protect your interests.

Award for Export, was During November and early December, part of a delegation meetings were held with the Parishes to to Texas, where they discuss the county’s proposals for a single visited medical schools and hospitals in a Unitary authority for Buckinghamshire, based on cost savings produced by bid to bring cutting edge British medical replacing five councils with one new technology to America. council. It is suggested that savings in excess nother Bucks based company, of £18 million per year are achievable and I Global Infusion Group, recently shall be meeting as many people as possible Areceived a call to help launch the to hear their views. Michelin Guide in Shanghai. Every pound that BCC invests in Bucks Business First Please let me know if I can raise your brings a benefit of £46 into the Bucks concerns with officers at County Hall. economy. Bucks Business First has a thriving Tricia Birchley [email protected] membership and welcomes all new start- 01296 621138 ups to join them. Buckinghamshire Adult Learning has achieved excellent results in a national employer satisfaction survey with a rating 12 per cent above the average on two key questions. They achieved 92 per cent when asked “Would you recommend this provider to another employer?” and 90 per cent on the quality of their training. This is good news for Buckinghamshire businesses and unemployment fell by 8,700 in the year to June 2016, representing 3.1 per cent of the working population.

As your County Councillor I have been out regularly this autumn with TfB to get gullies cleaned out and insisted that the Jetpatcher was brought back to complete the promised programme of road repairs. Whilst the quality of local roads is improving I am conscious that the profile of rural roads must be maintained at County Hall.

6 Hilltop News Hilltop News 7 a more active lifestyle, allow greater access There is now a buzz in the air as the Hawridge and Cholesbury C of E School to a broader range of sports and give more build up to Christmas begins. The whole space to those children who prefer other school is visiting The Elgiva for the outdoor activities apart from ball sports. pantomime ‘Beauty and the Beast’ – this We would also like to provide canopies will be preceded by a full cooked Christmas over all of the Key Stage 1 play areas and lunch. The Bazaar plans are up and running make improvements to the quiet garden for 3rd December; the DJ for the school space. These changes would allow us to Christmas disco is booked; a KS1 Christmas continue to develop the Forest School ethos Nativity is being rehearsed; a couple of film which the children fully embraced last nights are in the diary and a KS2 Christmas year. We have been fortunate to achieve Carol service is planned - it would seem some funding to allow additional training everyone will be ready for the Christmas for two of the staff in Forest Schools and break! are applying to local and national charity funding to help us develop these plans On behalf of the staff, children and further. However, as a school we will also parents of Hawridge and Cholesbury C of E need to raise money ourselves to bolster School I would like to take this opportunity our applications. Please support any school to wish you, and your families, a very Merry event you see advertised, if you can, to Christmas and a Happy New Year. Thank allow us to raise the money we need and you for all of your support. if you have any other ideas on funding James Morris applications, or ways to raise money, please email the PSA at hawridgepsa@hotmail. com.

The Assistant Head Teacher has been selected to take part in a Maths Mastery With larger numbers and ever more who ensured it was aligned properly with specialist programme of training. The project has been funded by the enthusiastic staff and parents, the school the finest antique compass! As can be seen from the photo, this is an incredible Government and will involve her primarily seems to be going from strength to piece of work showing the school emblem teaching Maths Mastery to our school as strength. The Harvest Festival was one of and the school values inside a compass. well as other schools in Buckinghamshire. the best attended over the last few years The work is incredibly detailed and the and, as ever, was kindly led by Revd David children were delighted on their return to school. We heartily thank everyone at Burgess. His backdrop was a huge display HG Matthews for this wonderfully kind of donated items which were made into contribution to our school playground. packages and delivered to Atlas House. The school has been looking at ver half term (and it took most of opportunities for outdoor play and the week) HG Matthews worked learning. Plans have been drawn up for Ohard to install a new mosaic which changes we are hoping to implement over Liam Humphreys designed with initial the next two academic years. These include input from the children and staff. Liam an additional playground focusing on sport was assisted by Ian Pepper and Tom Moody and ball games as an extension to the in the creation of the mosaic and Brian existing playground. This will allow greater Forest helped install it. The installation was outdoor play for all age groups – especially finalised with kind help from Mike Wallis, during periods of poor weather – promote

8 Hilltop News Hilltop News 9 Local History Garden Cities and Other Utopias. Kate CHOLESBURY-CUM-ST winners being a table from neighbouring taught garden history for London and Wigginton. Supper at “half-time” was Group Cambridge universities and now talks and LEONARDS W.I. enjoyed by everyone, with thanks given to lectures across the country. Currently Kate ur September meeting welcomed the committee for their preparation of the The LHG has had a is research co-ordinator of the Capability a number of visitors, all looking tasty meal. very successful start Brown Tercentenary Festival. forward to hearing about the We shall have a Cake and Produce stall Both talks are at St Leonards Parish Hall O to the season with charity Medical Detection Dogs. We were at the Christmas Food Fest taking place starting at 8.15 sharp with the Hall open large turnouts for treated to an extremely interesting and in St Leonards Parish Hall on Saturday from 8pm. informative presentation by Dr. Geoffrey 10 December, starting at 10am, and the both meetings – in Whether you are newly-settled or long- Farrer-Brown and learned about the work December meeting is once again a ‘Party time residents in the Hilltop Villages or particular for the November talk when over at the centre in Great Horwood where the Night’, Cally Foster is coming to entertain us adjoining hamlets, why not come along sixty attended, including many first time dogs are specially trained, some to detect with ‘Seasons Greetings’. Then into the New to one of our evening talks, only £4 at the human diseases and others to help people Year, 2017 - Leo Keedy, BBOWT Warden at members and visitors from the villages and door: a great opportunity to meet new living with dangerous health conditions. College Lake Nature Reserve at Tring, will further afield, to hear Stephen Barker give people. Just £10 buys you free entry to Geoffrey also spoke of the wider research talk about the changing landscape of the all evening meetings, plus a newsletter, an excellent talk about the Oxon and Bucks being undertaken and told us about the site. This meeting will be on Monday 16 other member events, access to our Light Infantry on the Somme in 1916. volunteers and socialisers who work with January. We look forward to seeing even archive of photographs and other material these special dogs. more members and visitors next year! e kick off 2017 on Friday 6 documenting the history of the houses, Also in September a group of us visited January with The Impact of the people and events in the Hilltop Villages. the V&A, where we met Colin Lomas, who Grand Junction Canal in West School students can attend meetings for W had talked to us earlier in the year on the Herts. Our speaker is Fabian Hiscock who free. work of Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Colin has been boating on canals since the 1980s, Chris Brown (758890) took us on a guided tour of a small part of NEIGHBOURHOOD developing an interest in the history of email: [email protected] the museum to follow the history of design the canal and Hertfordshire, leading to the WATCH and the decorative arts, from the Great Bed research he will present in his talk. of Ware to the twentieth-century. We also he clocks went Moving on to 3 February, we have saw items designed by Mackintosh. After back at the end invited Kate Harwood to talk to us on the tour, we went our own ways for lunch Tof October and and spent the afternoon either looking at historically there is a rise more galleries in the museum or visiting in burglaries at this time other London landmarks. of year, partly because The Annual Meeting took place on 17 houses are more obviously unoccupied. October, an opportunity to reflect on the Prepare your home for dark evenings by past year and to hear the results of our using timers and making sure everything is Competition Table, which raises money for secure. The police always need intelligence Pennies for Friendship. The Phyllis O’Connor on suspicious vehicles and activity, if Cup for gaining most points was presented you see something odd or out of place, to Paddy Thomas by Carol Henry, who please contact them. Also keep an eye on continues to be our President. There was neighbouring properties, particularly if you also a successful Bring and Buy Stall. know that someone is away. With darker Success followed again on 29 October days, if you are a cyclist, make sure to have when the Quiz Night saw a full hall at St functioning lights and high Vis clothing, it Leonards. Hilary Sheppard had set the means you will be seen by other road users. questions and she was ably assisted by As ever, in an emergency dial 999, and 101 Francis Sanger as Quiz Master on the night. to report other incidents. The scoring technology worked well and Shirley Blomfield (758314) there was a close final result, with the

10 Hilltop News Hilltop News 11 advised to keep them in the house and not CHOLESBURY cum the greenhouse for the whole season. They ST LEONARDS need plenty of water but don’t like being WENDOVER CHORAL SOCIETY waterlogged. HORTICULTURAL Christmas in Venice on Saturday 3 December celebrates Christmas Vespers by The Woodland Trust have recently Monteverdi and his contemporaries including Augustine Bassano as it might have reported that we are planting fewer trees SOCIETY been performed in San Marco in 1640. The conductor of the Wendover Choral Society than ever before and now is the time to is Peter Bassano, descended directly from a family of Venetian musicians brought to It’s been a tough year because of the plant bare root trees. These will establish England by Henry VIII. His illustrious background doesn’t stop there. As a former local slugs and snails that over-wintered and I, much quicker and be more successful than resident, he has been conductor of the Wendover Choral Society for more than ten container grown trees as they tend to have like many of you, am hoping for at least years and he is famous worldwide. As a champion of new music, he has commissioned a better developed root system. a brief spell cold enough to stop them and conducted a number of concerts with RCM Chamber Choir as well as directing the Membership of the Horticultural Society Baroque Orchestra at Buckingham Palace on a number of occasions. He was one of the multiplying. On a more positive note the costs £2 per year - please contact Diana first conductors to appear at the newly built Paris Concert Hall, Cite de la Musique and Garner at [email protected] if you autumn colours have been particularly is a regular contributor to a number of music journals, publishing research on topics as would like more information about the good this year. This autumn I have had the diverse as Beethoven, Byrd, Shakespeare and Veronese. Society or membership. opportunity to visit several gardens for Peter will be accompanied as usual by the Equale Baroque Soloists. The Service of Happy gardening, the first time, and whilst I may not have Vespers is the principal evening office of the Catholic church culminating in the Sarah Tricks Magnificat: a wonderful start to the Christmas season at St Mary’s Church Wendover – brought home many ideas for my own 7.30pm. garden they were insightful visits. Tickets at £15 (concessions £13) are available from Just, 11 High Street, Wendover. ecember and January are months for preparing for the coming season. DAll seed boxes and tools should be cleaned and tidied and blades sharpened. Any shrubs which have grown too large and unwieldly should be pruned hard. Apple and pear trees will benefit from a winter prune to control their size and shape while stored apples should be checked regularly. Having cleaned your greenhouse, try to mop away any condensation which settles on any glass or other surfaces, as this will help fight fungal problems. Another good idea is to open the vents on warm ST LEONARDS days to keep your greenhouse ventilated. VILLAGE FETE Salad crops and the new emerging shoots We are looking for some volunteers of tender plants are very susceptible to to help organise next year’s fete at St botrytis, so avoid splashing the leaves when Leonards on June 3rd. The four-person watering. committee who have organised the It is not too early to plant some summer last two have stood down and we need bedding if you want early flowers, some extra pairs of hands to take on including many hardy perennials which will various tasks to ensure it remains one flower if sown now in a heated propagator, of the best events of the year. If anyone but you must ensure that the seedlings is interested please contact Michael or have sufficient light or they will become Judy Joseph on 01494 758702. weak and lanky. Chillies need as long a growing season as possible and I was

12 Hilltop News Hilltop News 13 to try to ensure that it dries out better after with the leak which caused the pond to work for our new information pamphlet wet weather. The results will be carefully dry out over many summers. Only time which we will shortly be distributing to monitored to see whether further drainage will tell what will happen in our long-term local residents and the school children as work will need to be done, particularly battle to try to control the New Zealand well as placing them in local pubs, libraries in places such as the top of Stoney Lane, Pygmy Weed (probably originally from etc. Veronica has also been exploring ways where the run-off from the road makes the unwanted contents of someone’s in which we can encourage volunteers. the ride and the footpath impassible after fish tank) and the current infestation of As well as advertising further afield, she prolonged periods of rain. Hopefully, if goldfish, which some thoughtless person is investigating the possibility of focus the rides are drier, riders will be less likely has dumped in the pond. We cannot stress groups such as Scout Troops or businesses to stray off them. We also look forward to too much that this is a wildlife pond and which might be interested in having HAWRIDGE & seeing further views from the road towards NOTHING should be added to it since, team-building sessions on the Commons. Heath End. all too frequently, the native species are John and Ann Caple, Peter Hall, together CHOLESBURY COMMONS The work on the Bottom Ride and on unable to compete with those which are with Veronica and her son, Harvey, are PRESERVATION SOCIETY the open grassland near to Horseblock introduced. re-instating the way-marking posts on the Lane is now finalised with the grinding Isobel Clark talked about the need for rides but, due to the current works on the Calendar and cards of 83 tree stumps. At a cost of £1,700 this further volunteers in the summer months to Top Ride, some posts there will need to be When you are thinking of Christmas gifts work is expensive but necessary where we work on paths which are inaccessible to the put in place after that work is completed. do remember our lovely local calendar (£10) do not wish the stumps to re-grow, as they tractor and our hopes that small groups will and butterfly/moth and wildflower cards have done on Pound and Stoney Lanes. undertake some of this work at times that 50th Anniversary (£1.25 each). Please don’t leave buying After the work is completed on the Top are convenient to them rather than holding 2017 marks the 50th anniversary of the calendars until the last minute since we Ride there will need to be further stump organized sessions at regular times. Society and we will be looking into ways to only print the number we can confidently grinding if we are to be able to keep that In Veronica Mash’s absence, Lindsay celebrate this event. sell, and may run out. If you want to buy area mowed and clear of re-growth. This is Griffin discussed some of the initiatives Of the original committee, only Joan but can’t get to any of the local events all very important work for Christine and with which Veronica has been involved. Walton continues to live here in the please ring me (758440), contact hccps@ for the Society. Without constant efforts Veronica’s daughter Tina did the graphic village. Joan was Chairman of the Parish hawridgeandcholesburycommons.org or to keep some of the vegetation under visit Chiltern Motors. There will be no cheap control we would long since have had the deals after Christmas! All proceeds go to entire Commons covered in wilderness. maintaining the Commons and help keep Whilst wilderness is also important habit for the cost of membership low. wildlife it would be largely impenetrable AGM for walkers and riders and so we are Our AGM was held on 22 November and extremely fortunate to have the many the election of the new committee, the diverse areas of Commons which we have Chairman’s report, Treasurer’s report and managed over the years. a full report of the proceedings is now available on our website. This year we Other initiatives decided not to have a guest speaker as Michelle Storm took us on a guided tour there have been a number of works on the around our beautiful website. Michelle Commons and initiatives about which some continues to add to it in innovative ways of the committee members were able to and update it regularly. Have a look! update the meeting. You are assured of a really pleasurable Tree work experience and if you have any suggestions Christine was able to give us up-to-date for further possible inclusions please let us information on the recently completed tree know. work on Rays Hill, which was undertaken David Dennis talked about the recently to remove potentially hazardous trees. completed work on Pallett’s Pond and our She also talked about the work which is hopes that we have now dealt successfully currently being carried out on the Top Ride

14 Hilltop News Hilltop News 15 Council in 1967. They were approached by Archive Peter Knowles-Brown, Hugh Rolf, a local As you can imagine, over the years we chartered surveyor, and others who were have collected a sizeable archive and we interested in forming a Society to protect are looking to rationalise many of the old the Commons and to raise awareness of the documents by storing them electronically desirability of registering Commons Rights so that they can be more accessible. It is under the Commons Registration Act 1965. interesting, for example, to have a look 12TH DAY BEFORE CHRISTMAS RAFFLE th These rights were based on the rateable at the committee members over time and On the 12 day before Christmas my true love could be value of local properties in 1857. their years of service. Clearly, the work sending you...... Joan chaired the inaugural meeting of of the Society has been seen to be of TWELVE Homemade mince pies the Society in Cholesbury Village Hall in continuing importance over the years and a ELEVEN Bags of split logs October 1967 at which some key people total of 79 committee members have served in the villages were charged with setting to date, several for 15 to 20 years. Perhaps TEN Savoury Surprises guiding principles for the running of the the most remarkable is David Barnard, NINE Free range eggs new society and the first Committee was who has now completed 37 years as a EIGHT Christmas crackers duly elected at a meeting in December Committee member, past Chairman and of that year. Joan was one of the elected Vice Chairman and who continues to be an SEVEN Sweet surprises members and served on the committee for active conservation group member. Well SIX Boozy bottles 16 years. Further details of the history of done, David. I think your record is likely to FIVE GOLDEN BEERS the Society and of those who registered stand for a long time! A full record of all their properties under the Act (thereby committee members, originally compiled FOUR Training sessions protecting their Commons Rights) can by Oliver Parsons, is also available on our THREE Christmas candles be found in the Local Heritage Study, website. TWO Festive florals Hawridge and Cholesbury Commons, which Lindsay Griffin AND A(ready to cook) is available on the website. Pheasant in a real Christmas Tree

Hilltop Commons Conservation Group sessions for December 2016 – February 2017

9.30am – 12.30 pm

One lucky winner will win ALL THIS -­‐ a prize worth over £250 The final session of the year will be held on 11 December opposite The Row, Hawridge Tickets are just £2.50 each and can be bought on-­‐line or..... to cut down low branches and clear patches of scrub. There will be a bonfire. at the school’s Christmas Fair on 3rd December at the Festive Food th Fair on 10 December Further sessions will take place on 15 and 29 January and 12 and 26 February. Phone 01494 757 059 or email [email protected] Further details will be given on New Grapevine. For full details of how to get your tickets

Everyone is welcome, adults and children alike. Bring thick gloves. To enter on line simply go to www.btplc.com/mydonate click on ‘Donate to Charity’ Refreshments provided. and search for ‘Friends of Hawridge Church’ – or just Google it! Thank you to everyone who has donated so generously All proceeds to Hawridge Church -­‐ Entries close 6pm 10th December For further info: contact David Barnard (758365) or Isobel Clark (758987) Winner will be notified immediately – delivery (within 5 mile by radius) 12th December – where appropriate!

Please email [email protected] if you would like to come along for the first time.

16 Hilltop News Hilltop News 17 extended. Alan was a player for at least 50 A celebration of life years, umpire, groundsman, club secretary for 25 years, a successful recruiter of new Alan Ernest Brown players and, in later years, scorer. Until 9 May 1939 to 15 October 2016 quite recently he was still to be seen helping to prepare the wicket. Alan Brown was a real Chilterns man and Vicky died in 1995 finally succumbing son of Cholesbury. He was born in the to her long standing asthma and was house called Baldwins in 1939 and was deeply missed by villagers for her kind living there 77 years later, eight weeks temperament. Alan met Sheila White from Colnbrook and they formed a deep before his death in Stoke Mandeville friendship for almost 15 years, earning Hospital, surrounded by his family. the name “Brown and White”. Sheila say. He always engaged with the opposition supported Alan at the Cricket Club and – he could rub them up the wrong way, he Browns were a prominent local was a true and loving godsend when Alan but after the game he’d be first at the bar family in the last century and Alan could no longer drive. Alan had developed to offer a smile, a drink and friendly chat. could trace his branch to Wigginton T muscle weakness, leading to swallowing Get to know Alan, and you’ll find him as in the sixteenth century. Not all Browns difficulties and, about four years ago, he generous and warm-hearted as they come. remained in the area and the family history was diagnosed with Myotonic dystrophy. Even spectators at matches were likely to refers to one ancestor who struck gold Over £500 was raised for this charity at be welcomed personally by Alan and, if you in Australia, sold the claim and returned his funeral. His ashes will go to Hawridge looked like you could hold a bat, may be to Cholesbury richer than when he left. churchyard beside Vicky. persuaded to join! Baldwins had been bought in 1904 by At Alan’s funeral, Cholesbury church was Alan played from his early teens until Alan’s grandfather, who reared pheasants decorated with flowers boldly displaying his sixties (once when 70!), occupied but converted to arable during World War the orange of his beloved Luton Town kit. various club posts – most noticeably II. Alan loved the land and tended his well- groundsman – and was a familiar sight stocked garden. Dorothy Paget of Chalfont St Giles, the * * * over countless years mowing or rolling the Alan was educated at Hawridge & owner of Golden Miller who established pitch during the summer months. He was Cholesbury C of E School under the records in racing history. A bridesmaid The heart and soul of also (dare I say, a slightly biased) umpire. redoubtable Miss Edwards then moved at their wedding was Vicky’s four year Alan was a naggingly accurate bowler briefly to Whitehill School before attending old niece, Sarah Brightman, who went our Cricket Club and would always say he would have had on to take the West End by storm. Their Germains St School. He was conscripted hen I moved to the Hilltop twice as many wickets if fielders had held two children are Matthew (b 1968) and into the Royal Artillery and served in Villages 36 years ago the first their catches! Never the most talented Abigail (b 1971) now living in Aylesbury Germany with Honest John missiles from person to walk through my gate of cricketers, Alan passed this accolade and Brighton respectively. Alan and Vicky W the US Army. He learnt surveying in the was Alan Brown. “I know you”, he called in to his son Matthew – one of the best socialised, played in the Beetle Drives and Army, and started a civilian career in the that reassuring local dialect as I inspected batsmen H&C ever had. And Alan always were good friends of David and Ann Hatch building industry later rising to contracts my garden, “you used to play cricket for found time for the young players at the of the Windmill. manager. He worked for Taylor Woodrow Chalfont Saints”. “I still do”, I replied. club, supporting them at home and away Alan was keen on sport all his life and a and other major construction companies “But you’re going to play for us now”, he matches and helping with their coaching. season ticket holder at Luton Town Football building housing estates, office blocks insisted. At Alan’s funeral I got to meet up with Club in good times and bad. Cricket was his and refurbished an operating theatre in Of course I had every intention of many H&C players from the past (what a great passion and H&CCC benefited greatly Great Ormond Street. He was particularly joining my new local club, but Alan was team we could have put out!). Only Alan from his commitment. Alan’s generation proud of an office near Fleet Street which off the mark straight away and couldn’t could have brought so many together. He included David Penn, Willie Pledge, Mick won a Best Small Office Award. Alan’s fine have been more welcoming. He was the would have been thrilled to bits to see us all. James and Jamie Fulkes. Alan and his father reputation meant he easily found the next heart and soul of Hawridge & Cholesbury Alan’s other sporting passion was Luton raised funds and helped to build the first contract. CC then, and continued to be. Anyone who Town Football Club – it was fitting that, on brick pavilion in 1970 and also the 1985 Alan married Victoria Hall of Old has played against H&C will remember the day Alan died, they won. Chesham in 1964. Her father worked for building that still stands, albeit considerably Alan – “a bit of a character”, they would Graham Lincoln

18 Hilltop News Hilltop News 19 CAMARILLA ENSEMBLE What a treat! We were fortunate enough to have this professional Wind Quintet to perform for us in St Leonards Church in November. This award-winning chamber music group, all of whom are professional players, come together periodically to entertain. We were even able to hear Luke Strevens, our very own uber-professional, who was able to step in at the last moment to replace their flautist who was required elsewhere. Two of the performers are parents at the School. We heard a wonderful mixture of music varying from Mozart’s Magic Flute Overture to Gershwin’s I got Rhythm and there was no doubt that St Leonards Church provided a perfect setting for this small group. During the interval we could see the plans for the development of the school grounds and it was interesting to hear from Alex Nisbet, Chair of the PSA, just how passionate they are at Hawridge and Cholesbury School about the importance of play-based learning in the early years achieved through connection with the natural environment. Our thanks to Louise (a performer/parent) for organising the programme in conjunction with the group and to Hannah and Alex for organising the event. We are promised a further concert in the spring!

20 Hilltop News Hilltop News 21 HAWRIDGE & U9 Batting - Robin Fisher CHOLESBURY U9 Bowling - Nick Pemberton CRICKET CLUB U9 Most Improved - Lauren Matthews

End of the Alan U10 Batting - Ben Morris Brown era U10 Bowling - George Hill The recent passing U10 Most Improved - Amelia Brownsell of Alan Brown ends an era in the history U11 Batting - William Akers of the club. First U11 Bowling - Maxi Maintzer his father Ernest U11 Most Improved - Dylan Griffiths was central to the club’s well-being U12 Batting - Albert Barber for many years and U12 Bowling - Oliver Richardson then Alan took U12 Most Improved - Oliver Coleman over and ran most of the club’s affairs in the eighties, nineties U13 Batting - Alec Matthews and into the 21st century. He will be U13 Bowling - Toby Magennis remembered as a very colourful character U13 Most Improved - Mac Harriman who always had the cricket club’s best interests at the forefront of his mind. U14 Batting - Ferdi Maintzer U14 Bowling - Ferdi Maintzer Family Fun Day and Colts awards U14 Most Improved - Luke Barker Fun day for Colts and families Another very successful season for Colts Playing matters Social cricket at H&C, culminating in a Family Fun U15 Batting - Jamie Matthews The club finished at the bottom of the Mid Social Secretary Dawn Edwards came up Day in which over 70 colts and their parents U15 Bowling - Ciaran Delaney Bucks Premier Division in 2016. As major with the idea of a post-season conkers played together in mixed teams for an U15 Most Improved - Samuel Hames afternoon of fun, followed by an awards changes are afoot in the league structures, afternoon, which was seriously contested it is not clear yet as to which league the by young and old. George Harriman-Smith ceremony, recognising the contributions In addition, the Under 10s were crowned club will play in next year. Two clubs was crowned as Colts King Conker and Jim made by colts in the season past. Bucks Division 3 South Champions. are reported to have defected from Mid Filer as the Senior King Conker. Youth Development Officer Ian Hames Good to see at last that we have some Bucks to the Chiltern League, including Dates for the diary announced the following awards for the junior girls gaining awards! 2016 season… champions Ley Hill, so it may well be that 26th December: Boxing Day Hunt on the H&C retain their Premier Division status. In Common order for the club to perform at that level 19th January: AGM at 8pm in the Pavilion next season, the playing strength needs to Brian Ralphs be bolstered. We have some juniors coming through the ranks, who in time we hope will help, but 2017 will be critical. The club would like to offer its best wishes to two young players who have been regulars, but have now moved away. They are Matt Rutt who, amongst other things, was the club statistician, and Sam Richardson.

22 Hilltop News Hilltop News 23 Good Neighbours Group

AGM call the number below. Come and find out how you can offer Volunteer drivers will respond as needed something back to your local community. between 9am – 7pm and there is a special Join us on Thursday 15 December at telephone number to use to contact the Cholesbury Village Hall, 2.30pm for a cup scheme coordinators: 0845 8 735 737 - so of tea and hear about the activities of the keep this number handy by the phone or, if Good Neighbours Group over the past year. out and about, on your mobile. Find out about the help that is available If you consider yourself community- to those needing advice and support living spirited and have a suitable vehicle (a 4x4 locally or those who support one or more or with winter tyres fitted) we would really local residents. Most recently the GNG held like to hear from you. The more drivers we some workshops on learning to use or make can call on the better prepared we will be better use of a tablet computer. We are and we can also share out any demands keen to follow this up so please come along across a larger group. to tell us if you would like to participate in future computer-related initiatives. Pub Lunch Club The Pub Lunch Club continues to meet at Severe Weather Car Scheme lunchtimes (12.30pm) at The Black Horse Firstly, a big thank you for the generosity on the second Wednesday of each month. of the locals who volunteer to support the The next few dates for your diary are: Car Scheme which will again be operating Wednesdays 14 December, 11th January during periods of severe weather. That said, and 8th February. Booking is made in it seems running the scheme has brought us advance by email or telephone - contact some milder winters recently: but we know details below. our luck will run out sometime. Lunches are available to anyone living The aim is to provide our rural in, or connected with the Hilltop Villages of community with enhanced resilience if the Buckland Common, Cholesbury, Hawridge winter weather is severe and prolonged. Its and St Leonards. Distinctly unstuffy it’s just purpose is to help local people who cannot the place to get to know some new faces, get about or are nervous driving in tricky whether you are new to the villages, work conditions to get to medical appointments, from home, or are just around during the restock essential food supplies, collect an middle of the day and fancy a break and urgent prescription, or other essential a chat over a meal. It also provides an errands. If there is a major snowfall during opportunity for those who might otherwise the day we could also ‘rescue’ stranded not find it easy to get to local social events. villagers at local stations or in the environs If a lift is needed this can be arranged. of the villages! If weather conditions You can contact us by email: prevent social services reaching a client, and [email protected] or near neighbours are not available, then telephone 01494 758890. volunteers may also be able to help with Chris Brown certain vital tasks. If you are unable to get out due to the weather do not hesitate to

24 Hilltop News Hilltop News 25 on the Local Area Forum and for many years the Rural Policing Group. You may Recognition for Cllr Brown have noticed that he also finds the time to write many articles for this very publication! In his usual modest way, Chris said of the honour: “I’m genuinely surprised but appreciative of this recognition of what parish and town councillors can achieve. You can make a difference and improve things by making little adjustments or helping small groups of people. That for me is the motivation for being a local councillor.” I hope you will join us all in thanking Chris for the work he has done to date and hope that we will be fortunate enough to be in receipt of his good deeds for a while yet! Well-deserved Chris and many congratulations!

Cllr Chris Brown (left) receives his award

The Parish Council is very proud to report that our very own Councillor Brown has been awarded the national honour of ‘Parish Councillor of the Year’ at the Local Government Information Unit’s (LGiU’s) Councillor Achievement Awards 2016, held in November at the Guildhall, London. It followed his nomination by Buckinghamshire County Council’s Deputy Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, Noel Brown (no relation!).

s well as being the PC’s Vice- Chris has also secured grants for young Chair since 2001 and a serving people at our local cricket club and the Acouncillor for 17 years, Chris has toddlers group and was instrumental in the been instrumental in forming the ‘Good campaign for superfast broadband, which Neighbours Group’, which aims to support culminated in fibre cabling and equipment the elderly and infirm to feel less isolated, being installed by BT Openreach in March as well as other schemes in a similar 2016. This is on top of work to bring the ‘neighbourly’ manner, including the pub Mobile Vehicle Activated Sign (MVAS) lunch club, winter car scheme, gentle to the Hilltop villages, a long project to exercise sessions and the setting up of provide accurate ‘white’ signposting in the computer literacy courses. Parish, and being the council representative

26 Hilltop News Hilltop News 27 “Dwelling among us”

by the Reverend John’s Gospel condenses Christmas into David Burgess a single verse: “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” The Christmas story, at its heart, is that of Jesus taking our place, getting under our skin, becoming flesh and dwelling I’ve used the among us. Christians believe in and serve a following story God who wants to come alongside us, who before, but it certainly bears retelling and wants to identify with us and experience humanity to the full. The Christmas story thinking about afresh from time to time. tells us how he brought it about. man named John Howard Griffin There’s more food for thought in was living sixty-odd years ago in Griffin’s story. His study was never intended Aa town called Mansfield, in Texas. to make a theological or religious point In itself the town was unremarkable; but and clearly the inhabitants of Mansfield those who passed through it would always didn’t make the connection either. It made take note of the sign in the small café him vulnerable and put him at risk. He on the main street which said “Whites was forced to move on. He was in danger Only.” Similarly, Griffin wasn’t particularly of his life. What he did encouraged many, distinguished, but he had an idea which challenged some, and enraged others. was so revolutionary that, when he put it in We can be thankful therefore, that at practice, it alienated him forever from most the first Christmas, this is also exactly what of the white folk in his town. Jesus did. Because of this, “We have seen He wanted to get inside the skin of his His glory, the glory of the One and Only, black brothers and sisters; to feel first-hand who came from the Father, full of grace what it would be like to try to enter a store and truth.” or a restaurant and be angrily sent packing; I wish you a peaceful and joyful to know what it would be like to live in a Christmas. world where even the drinking-fountains and toilets were for “whites only.” And so, in 1959, he darkened his skin with medications, sun lamps and stains and travelled throughout the South to experience, literally in the flesh, what it was like to be humiliated and discriminated against simply because of the colour of his skin. He wrote a book about his experience titled “Black Like Me”.

28 Hilltop News Hilltop News 29 30 Hilltop News Hilltop News 31 charming village church, are in good shape. with Dave Clarke (by his own admission) Church matters If you would like more information about concentrating on the ‘ridiculous’! Dave is becoming a ‘Friend’ which, incidentally, a part of this great group – The Ridgeway does not necessitate regular attendance, Chorale - and it was thanks to him that this year will be our ‘12 Days Before please call 01494 757059. the concert took place. The conductor, HAWRIDGE Christmas’ raffle – one absolutely not to Richard Grylls, led his choir through a hank you to be missed (full details appear elsewhere in And so to the New Year – We are number of well known songs with great everyone who Hilltop News). delighted to be holding the first Service charm and humour, if not with a little T supported our of 2017 here at Hawridge, a New Year eccentricity thrown in for good measure. Michaelmas Market on The Full Moon will be hosting us for Service followed by Communion, starting The supper was deemed ‘totally 24 September, which Christmas Carols on Tuesday 20 December at 9.30am. This will be the only service in delicious’, about which the organisers were we held in the beautiful where we will be led once again by Sue the Benefice on New Year’s Day, so why not delighted – particularly as the vagaries of setting of the Black and Clive Carey who, as well as providing shake off any excesses of the night before the marvellous new oven slightly escaped Horse Pub’s garden. The us with the words to all those well known with a simple service followed by a Sunday them and at one stage it looked as though morning was bright and dry which meant, carols, will also accompany us musically stroll on the footpaths leading straight the only hot thing about the supper would after perusing the various stalls, bacon rolls – blowing, strumming, squeezing – to from the Church? A great way to start a be the chorizo - but all was well in the and coffee could be enjoyed outside in ensure a really lively evening. Everyone is New Year! end! Emma Branfield had done much of the autumn sunshine. We made a profit of most welcome – regardless of your normal the cooking – and all of the lovely pud. over £600 which has been shared with the affiliation to either pub or Church – the Although she was unable to be there Black Horse, who are funding a community evening is a great way to get into the on the night, her fantastic pre-planning defibrillator. The ‘Horse Power’ raffle was Christmas spirit and a good deal of money ST LEONARDS certainly made for a very happy evening. won by Caroline Glenister; and Rachel is also raised for Save the Children. ou will have surely Watts, who donated generously to our Christingle – We held this earlier than seen our new produce stall, won the prize for a meal for The Christmas Eve Carol Service at St. usual this year and it was incredibly well Mary’s is the one service where it really is Y‘Welcome to two at the Black Horse. attended with more than forty people ‘standing room only’ so please make sure St Leonards Church’ – mostly young families with children – notice board together with Our All Souls service was held on 6 you get there early to ensure a parking coming up to receive a lit Christingle. Kevan the glass fronted notice board – one side November and saw Hawridge Church filled space and a pew! The service starts at spoke admirably, describing how important announcing our services clearly and boldly with a good mix of familiar and new faces 5.30pm and all the family are very welcome the Christingle was and its true meaning. and the other side for village notices. As to remember those who are no longer with – it is an enchanting, traditional service to Barbara had gone to an immense amount it is not possible to leave the notice board us – a thoughtful service of reflection and start your Christmas festivities. We also look of trouble with the service and it made unlocked due to potential glass damage on remembrance. forward to welcoming you on Christmas it a pleasure for everyone. She made the Day at 10am. Please do join us and do a windy day, please do leave your notices Christingles herself along with Jo Strevens in the post box outside the Church Room - On Sunday 4 December we will be bring any family or friends you might have and several other helpers. Jonathan too phone Mark Lane (758238) and he will deal holding an Advent Carol Service at 9.30am staying with you. made a huge contribution! Well done! with it. Our particular thanks to Mark, one where you will also have the opportunity of our churchwardens, who master-minded to make your own Christingle – everyone is Our thanks as always to everyone who Tony Ecclestone, a Licensed Lay Minister the entire project and was kind and patient most welcome. helps to keep St. Mary’s an important part who helps David in the Hilltop Parishes, enough to listen to everyone’s views on the As we look towards Christmas we will of our village – whether by attending came to the Breakfast Service in October. matter! I think you will agree that as you not be holding our Christmas Fair this services, our various fundraisers, donating It was good to have him with us. Despite drive past in the car you are in no doubt year but will be supporting the school’s your time, money or effort in whatever it being half term, we welcomed a lot of what is happening on each Sunday in St Christmas Fair on Saturday 3 December and capacity – be assured it is always very much families who arrived to take part. Pain au Leonards! also the Festive Food Fair at St. Leonards appreciated. Our ‘Friends of Hawridge chocolat is definitely a big draw and does on Saturday 10 December, where we will Church’ initiative is gathering pace and as get the odd teenager out of bed! The Supper Concert on 15 October was be selling the appropriately named ‘Vicars the year draws to a close please support The new Archdeacon, The Venerable Guy a huge success contributing over £900 to St Game’ sausages, which have an enthusiastic our pledge to make 2016 the year we Elsmore, who is particularly interested in Leonards Church It was a wonderful mix of following! Our main Christmas fundraiser ensure that the material foundations, as Lay-led services given the paucity of clergy well as the spiritual foundations of our songs from the ‘sublime to the ridiculous’ in the area, intends to come and see what

32 Hilltop News Hilltop News 33 We will celebrate the Christmas Tea Party on Wednesday 21 December with a short visit to the Church to hear Richard Charles explain once again the meaning of some of the hymns which make Christmas so special, followed by a delicious tea with Christmas Cake and mince pies! The Tea Party on Wednesday 25 January is the beginning of our New Year. Do make a note in your 2017 diary to come and join us.

CHOLESBURY ‘‘‘holesbury Church Csupports we do! He will surely enjoy the coffee and We will be welcoming Little Bears four charities:‘The bacon butties! Our next Breakfast is on (above) on Tuesday 6 December for Poppy Appeal’ Sunday 22 January – We’d love to see you. their Christmas visit to the church – not on Remembrance forgetting the juice and home-made Sunday; ‘Save a St Leonards Service of Remembrance biscuits afterwards in the Church Room. It Cow’ at the Harvest Festival; the ‘Shoebox was held on Sunday 13 November. We is always lovely to see not just parents but Appeal’ at a special service and ‘PACT’ were delighted to welcome the Revd. grandparents and carers and, of course, (Parents and Children Together). David Whyte, formerly of Northchurch Charlie! The children never tire of the re- Happy Birthday Anne with Wigginton. At a time when we don’t telling of the Christmas Story. The congregation for Harvest Festival only remember those who gave their lives On Christmas morning we have a simple was most generous and brought a great in two World Wars but also those actively Christmas Services and short family service (no need to worry mix of produce to the altar. Potatoes, giving their life to protect others in Syria, Our Carol Service is on Sunday 11 about the turkey!) at 11.15am. It’s a lovely beetroot and kale from the allotments Iraq, Afghanistan and many other countries December at 6pm when we will have once start to a very special day. appeared as did locally baked cakes and in the Middle East and beyond, it was again the wonderful support of the Hilltop New Years Day – A time to reflect; a various jams. The ‘Harvest of the Hops’ fitting that we stood at the War Memorial Choir to add to the traditional carols and time to promise; a time to move forward? from Tring Brewery was included and also in remembrance of those from our own readings. Our Joint Service is at Hawridge, led by a lovely orchid. We sang ‘We Plough the village who died to save our country. The Nativity Service is on Sunday 18 David, at 9.30am on Sunday 1st January. Sea Cadet Volunteer, Petty Officer Mike December at 3.30. ALL CHILDREN are most We celebrated Anne Lake’s 80th Birthday Jefferys, played the Last Post and Reveille warmly invited to take part – whether at the Tea Party on Wednesday 26 October. just before the two minutes silence, the you come to Sunday School or not - or Ann Horn had baked a wonderful cake pure notes of the bugle resonating in the whether you are simply visiting family and decorated with candles spelling out ‘Happy cold crisp air. One of our Churchwardens, friends. Please contact Barbara Baddon Birthday’ which was enjoyed by everyone! Commander James Nisbet VR RNR, laid a (757238) if you would like to take part. Anne has been the prime organiser wreath on behalf of the Royal Navy. It was There is always a rehearsal and masses of of the Tea Parties since they began and a very moving conclusion to that part of our wonderful costumes, so no-one needs to feel deserves much praise for her continued care service. Military personnel are encouraged unprepared. You could be a king, a shepherd of those who find it difficult to get out and to support local Remembrance Services or even an angel - why not join in? about. Do ring her (01296 620169) if you across the country by laying wreaths. The As always we celebrate Midnight would like to join in. She will always find wreath on behalf of St Leonards was laid by Communion at 11.30pm on Christmas Eve. you transport if you should need it. Gathering the harvest Churchwarden, Mark Lane.

34 Hilltop News Hilltop News 35 Fields and Scatter’ with great spirit! The gifts were auctioned after the Supper in the Village Hall and £418 was raised for Save A Cow. Thank you to James and Liz for running the Auction and to Brigid, Philip, Maggie and Liz for the delicious Lasagnes and salad.

The following Sunday we collected fourteen boxes for the Shoebox Appeal. They were received in a service focussing on prayer and led by Tony Eccleston. These have to leave the UK before 1st November and we are always grateful to those of you who contribute.

We have been raising funds this year to replace the defender screens over our stained glass windows. I am delighted to Royal congratulations for Jean-Paul and Claire report that the Bucks Historic Churches Trust has most generously agreed to make a grant to help us with this project and we Mark Humphreys on 3 June near Ypres WellChild AWARD await more details before beginning work. and Arthur Batchelor on 15 December in Salonika. On 15 December this year we will he congregation at St. Mary’s were Over the years, the St Laurence ring the bell in honour of the centenary delighted to hear that local paediatric congregation has listened with great of Arthur’s death. Finally, we pledged Tphysiotherapist Jean-Paul van Weert, admiration to Louisa Haggerty as she sang ourselves to serve God and mankind in the who was married to Claire Bolton last year in church - particularly at the Carol Service. cause of peace. at Hawridge Church, won the WellChild No longer a little girl but a young woman, 2016 Outstanding Professional Award at her voice has developed wonderfully. I have Christmas at Cholesbury church will a star-studded event in October at The great pleasure in reporting that Louisa has again be celebrated at the Candlelit Carol Dorchester. Jean-Paul works partly from achieved a First Class Batchelor of Music Service with the traditional readings. We the Bagnall Centre in Waterside and also at with Honours degree from the Northern have a minister, choir and organist and the Eden Academy: a group of schools for Congratulations Louisa College of Music (she will graduate in await someone to mull the wine! The children with special needs. December). She is now studying acting with service is at 6pm on Sunday 18 December WellChild is the national charity for the Fourth Monkey Theatre Company in service. An obituary appears elsewhere in and you are all warmly invited to this seriously ill children, and each year London. Congratulations Louisa and our this edition. special event. it receives hundreds of nominations very best wishes. from parents keen to thank the health At our simple Remembrance service professionals caring for their children. JP On Friday 28 October the funeral of Alan on Sunday 13th, we joined the Nation at was described by a parent of one of his Brown took place in a packed church with the Cenotaph by radio to share the two patients as “Professional, modest, kind and 133 friends who came to remember him. minutes silence. The national Remembrance empathetic – Jean-Paul is a physiotherapist Many stood in the aisle during the service. involves both church and state and we with a difference. The children love him. He A lovely display of flowers was created by copied this in Cholesbury church. County doesn’t appreciate the influence he has and Dorritt, Joan, Linda and Sue W in many Councillor Tricia Birchley laid a wreath and how much he means to all the parents and shades of orange, the colour of Luton Town the Secretary of the Parish Council, Hayley the children. We are so pleased that with FC – Alan’s great passion. The Cricket Club Lewis, read from St John. We remembered this award we can let him know how special provided a generous reception after the that in 1916 two Cholesbury men died: he is and how grateful we are.”

36 Hilltop News Hilltop News 37 HILLTOP NEWS nature notes

An autumn of leaves? Driving down Hawridge Hill in early November I was surprised to see furious swirls of dead leaves both falling from the trees and being swept along the road by a healthy breeze. The vast majority were beech tree leaves though other leaves such as oak, ash, horse chestnut, sycamore or field maple are likely companions.

ur obsession with the weather By the time these bright green tree derives from living on an island leaves appear in April or May they are Owith a temperate maritime climate already almost a year old. The leaves influenced by Atlantic weather systems and form within in embryonic winter buds at the Gulf Stream. The English may enjoy the the apex of stems and twigs from June opportunity to converse endlessly about onwards the year before. From July and our weather’s unpredictability but this August these winter buds enlarge and by obsession also arms us with the instincts to the autumn next year’s leaves are already And how the swift beat of the brain nests they can be seen topping-up on high sense minute progressions in each season. fully formed and tightly folded beneath Falters because it is in vain, energy drinks from the final crop of now For instance, in autumn the shortening the outer scales of the bud. These buds In autumn at the fall of the leaf overripe blackberries and the super-rich day lengths trigger plant hormone containing new leaves provide an excellent Knowest thou not? and how the chief nectar from autumn flowering plants such production. This stimulates irreversible refuse for overwintering insects and trees Of joys seems not to suffer pain? as ivy, gorse and hellebore. Then, instead of chemical reactions in the leaves that employ a variety of methods to protect foraging it seeks out a sheltered location, progressively export away from the leaves themselves from attack. As November marches on there are an abandoned mouse hole, hollowed out the vital minerals and other components The first trees to show signs of the other signs of the looming crossover period tree trunk and, as some of you will have of chlorophyll and related pigments for autumn onset are horse chestnuts, famous for local wildlife, from the period of high experienced, an insulated loft or cooler storage over winter. What remains are the for their red sticky buds that harden like a activity during the warm summer to the room. Once wasps select a suitable location largely toxic products of the breakdown resin and provide an almost impregnable cooler but still productive early autumn they will hibernate. Some may construct process which the tree needs to dispose barrier to invading bugs. For other trees and the brisk sprint to avoid demise as a golf-ball-sized abode within which they of. Compared to other primates we are a chemical in the scales and leaves deters single digit temperatures become the norm rest up. This affords them extra protection able to identify many more variations in invaders or might be toxic to moth during late November or early December. from their enemies, be they insectivorous reds, oranges and browns. Similarly we can caterpillars which hatch from beneath the A combination of shortages in certain mammals or spiders. discern the earliest signs of spring, with the scales. Another pest is the larva of gall foodstuffs plus reduced day length and Whereas for wasps the break is at the merest glimpse of vibrant green as leaves wasps which can penetrate the outer scales temperatures stimulates a break in the adult stage, for other insects the break begin to appear. By seeing subtle colour using a hypodermic syringe-like ovipositor lifecycle of insects. This is called a diapause is set to occur at other lifecycle phases. changes it also allows us to sense shorter to lay eggs. When the larva hatches it - the requirement of a defined period of In butterflies, the purple hairstreak durations of time more accurately. produces a hormone which stimulates the cold to ensure continuation of the lifecycle. overwinters as eggs, meadow browns and tree to produce gall within which the larva During October or early November young common blues as caterpillars, orange tips Know’st thou not at the fall of the leaf can safely develop. In short both tree and queen wasps emerge from the papier and green hairstreaks as pupae, and small How the heart feels a languid grief pest engage in a sophisticated form of mâché nests that once sustained over 6,000 tortoiseshells and brimstones as adults. Laid on it for a covering, chemical warfare. workers. The queens have been reared For hibernating mammals (hedgehogs, And how sleep seems a goodly thing on high octane food prepared by the last bats and dormice) it is the extending night In autumn at the fall of the leaf? brood of workers. Once they’ve left the time which triggers hormone production.

38 Hilltop News Hilltop News 39 This switches dietary choices to favour our chaffinches, starlings, jays, robins, blue increased fat consumption. Reduced food and great tits are augmented in winter supply affects their body temperature, by others migrating from more northerly Getting in gear for a resulting in the onset of hibernation. altitudes. Those arriving are seeking more reliable food supplies and fleeing seasonally Know’st thou not at the fall of the leaf unsavoury climatic conditions. How the soul feels like a dried sheaf Invertebrates, such as earthworms, slugs charity bike ride Bound up at length for harvesting, and snails have clever strategies to avoid And how death seems a comely thing the damaging conditions of winter. In each In autumn at the fall of the leaf? case their survival is down to seeking out Until recently my attitude to cyclists in our In late February I went on my maiden ride on my new bike. Jonathan Bright had offered In the 18th century Gilbert White, sheltered habitats and a copious quantity lovely part of the world was pretty hostile. to take me out with him and when we met the first naturalist to observe and record of mucus-based slime which is used by snails We do live in a very attractive area but as at the start of the ride I could see something wildlife activities in detail, thought to seal them inside their shells. Earthworms a motorist I found cyclists’ annoying habit wasn’t right. I had on a pair of baggy shorts swallows and martins, who he noted bury themselves deeper underground and of riding two or three abreast along our and a sports fleece but his first words were disappeared in winter, buried themselves construct a mucus sphere or egg. ‘Where are your gloves?’. I didn’t know that in river mud. Until the end of the 19th And what about all those leaves once narrow lanes very irritating, especially they were required but fortunately he had century their disappearance remained they have fallen? If it were not for the when they seemed oblivious to my a spare pair and, after a rather unsettling a mystery. For birds, well some at least, aforementioned snails and earthworms we pressing need to overtake and reach my discussion about how far we would go, we we know migration is an option to avoid would long since have suffocated under destination. Moreover, most seemed to set off. We did 10 miles: a distance I now unsurviveable conditions. How birds choose tons of leaves. know most cyclists would regard as laughably and undertake migration remains largely ‘An autumn of leaves’ is the collective have got dressed in the dark before setting short but at the end of which my lungs unsolved. noun to describe a ground-covering carpet out and wore such ill coordinated outfits as were burning, my legs hurting and a rather One interesting feature that applies to of leaves. to be an affront to civilised society! unpleasant feeling was coming from the area some of our familiar species is that not all That’s all this time. Comments and of my anatomy that had been in contact with birds of a species known to migrate will do questions welcome as always to hen earlier this year I found myself the gel-filled saddle. so out of a local population. For example, [email protected] joining them. Several people at And so began a journey to get ready for work had decided to sign up for a T London to Paris in September. I remember charity bike ride in aid of The Brain Tumour the sense of achievement the first time I Charity and asked me to join them. I have rode for 20 miles and then over 30: the day no cycling history and had never before I switched from riding in trainers to cleats thought about doing an endurance event, (shoes that clip into the pedals) and falling but reaching the advanced age of 60 in off a couple of times as I struggled to free a March and wanting to prove I wasn’t yet foot before the bike came to a standstill. It ready to join the pipe and slippers brigade is a long way down when you are 6’3’’ and I signed up. London to Paris on a bike: 300 about to hit the tarmac. miles over 4 days - how hard could that be? Realising that I was actually serious Little did I know… about doing this ride my wife and Sallie First job was to buy a bike. The last one I Bright gave me some stiff lectures about bought was under £100, had a three-speed eating properly, drinking and eating whilst Sturmey-Archer gear set and I used it to get riding, changing my diet and finishing each to and from school in Maidstone. I went training ride with a protein drink. I was to several local bike shops for advice and introduced to isotonic drinks, energy bars eventually spent over £2,000 on a piece of and good carbs and protein rich meals. I machinery that weighed virtually nothing, even started to eat some vegetables. But had more gears than I had ever seen and the best bit about the training was the a gel filled saddle - this was apparently discovery of a website called ‘Wiggle’. important.

40 Hilltop News Hilltop News 41 families who were at the finish. Thirty one of the eighty-plus riders were raising money for The Brain Tumour Charity and that group has raised over £125,000, which is the biggest single fund raiser the charity has ever had. It makes the experience especially memorable to have supported such a good cause. The bad news is that I am a convert to cycling - I will be continuing. I shall be joining that group of folk that clog up our lanes on a regular basis next year. So if you see a rather large cyclist on his own wearing a London to Paris cycle shirt, don’t forget to wave as you race by! Michael Joseph

There you can buy a vast array of cycling lost control of the bike and went over the accessories and clothing. The latter in handlebars into a field narrowly missing a particular is the introduction to lycra that telegraph pole on the way. That shook me every sixty-year-old needs; a vast choice of up and reminded me it can be dangerous if cycling shorts and tops in colours no-one you lose concentration for a moment. has ever previously thought should be The event itself involved over 80 riders put together in material so close fitting leaving Crystal Palace early one Wednesday it is guaranteed to cause your children morning in the first week of September maximum embarrassment. and doing 100 miles down to Dover before As spring and early summer progressed getting a ferry to Calais. Then it was two I was cycling three times a week for days in Northern France to Beauvais: increasing distances. Even the average conventional wisdom has it that that part speeds were going up and although I was of France is flat. Let me tell you it isn’t - it never fast it was satisfying to be averaging is hilly and exposed. The final day sees you 14mph over 30 and 40 mile rides. Much of riding through beautiful countryside to the the riding was done solo and so in August Parisian suburbs and then into the city. The the four of us on the ride met in North last couple of miles took us through the Yorkshire to ride together for the first time. centre along the Champs Elysees, past the We did a 75 mile route from Wetherby Arc de Triomphe and finishing at the Eiffel to Filey on the coast and it was fantastic Tower. The traffic was all held up to allow - suddenly it felt doable and riding in a the cyclists through and the finish was just group was so much better than on your the best moment of the year. It was made own. The following day we did a shorter 55 all the more special with my wife, two mile ride which was also going well until daughters and their boyfriends amongst I clipped the wheel of the man in front, the big crowd of supporters, friends and

42 Hilltop News Hilltop News 43 Horse enjoy giving exposure to local musical artists, there will be live music sessions on 4, Winter pub news 16, 23 and 27 December. After three months of deliberation and drafting, the Planning Inspector issued a detailed decision to dismiss the Appeal and uphold the Enforcement Notice issued by At the time of writing, three of our pubs who will join young Jack to assist Aarron in the Chiltern District Council in the matter the kitchen. Since Andy is an accomplished are in pretty good shape. Long may of an application for a change of use of the chef in his own right, there should be no it last. All we need now is to see the White Lion from its historic role as a public diminution in the quality of the cuisine house to a private residence. return of our absent friends that are all when Aarron is off duty. As a consequence of this decision, the subject to ongoing planning actions and There is a special Christmas menu in present owners of the White Lion have put effect for the season, but it will be drinks interventions. it on the market for sale as a pub/restaurant only from 12:00 to 2:00pm on Christmas “with great potential”. Many people in aving spent the latter part of the Day. Go to www.theoldswanpub.co.uk for the Hilltop community as well as visitors summer coming to grips with the menus and the like. who frequent this area now hope that a Hnature of the Full Moon’s market Since the Black Horse Inn had a facelift fresh party experienced in the hospitality and clientele, Aine and Kieron Delaney and refurbishment this past spring, trade industry will be able to acquire the premises have now established how they intend has been picking up swiftly. Manager Lisa at an economically viable price and resume to go forward. Since their Sunday roast Walker leads a team that now amounts to trading as a public house. lunches have become a regular sell out, 25 staff, and she is actively searching for an that format will remain the same. Because additional chef to support Sarah Connelly Bill Ingram Sundays continue to enjoy very high in the kitchen. demand, booking is absolutely necessary A wide range of activities is planned for as there is not the excess capacity to accept December and January. To keep abreast casual drop-ins (Telephone 758959). On the of current schedules, go to their website other hand, they have totally revamped www.theblackhorsechesham.co.uk. A quick their evening dinner menu to move it more summary includes a ‘Chrizzmas and Jumper up-market to reflect what they perceive Party’ on 18 December, and Christmas to be demand to make dining out at night carols led by the Chess Valley Male Choir more of a special occasion. The lunch menu, on 20 December. Christmas Eve will run however, remains a more traditional pub until 12:30 that night, but Christmas Day offering. will see the pub closed. Following on from The Facebook page continues with ‘The the success in the autumn half term, there Full Moon Hawridge’ and the web site will be events for children on 28, 29 and 30 has been brought back to life as www. December. thefullmoon.pub. It has basic information Opening on New Year’s Eve will be as well as some current menus. 12:00 to 4:00pm and again from 6:00pm Plans for the holiday season include to 01:00am for a four-course dinner and opening for drinks from 12:00 to 2:00pm on midnight buffet accompanied by live music. Christmas Day and the famous Boxing Day Quiz nights will resume on 15 January, Breakfast event on Monday 26 December. whilst on the 14th, the Ghost Society will Although the Old Swan continues be on site to conduct a survey in response as a bright beacon up a dark lane, staff to recent encounters with the fabled shortages have strained their capacity to apparition, whose presence has been felt deliver. However, that is changing in time over many years. for the holidays with the arrival of Andy Since the management of the Black

44 Hilltop News Hilltop News 45 HOSPICE NEWS Christmas Care The Hospice of St Francis continues to care for and support patients and families over the Christmas season, with patients receiving a handmade blanket and stocking and a Christmas meal with all the trimmings available to families. In addition, children supported during the year are invited to the Christmas Party, where Santa makes a special appearance. At this time of year the Hospice also holds its annual ‘Light up a Life’ celebration and appeal - a special time, which provides a valuable opportunity to reflect on the lives of those whose memory we treasure. Anyone in our community is welcome to Light up a Life by dedicating a light on the Hospice Remembrance Tree, which will burn brightly throughout the festive season, symbolising the brightness and joy that special people have brought to our lives. Santas and Jingle Dogs! Gather up your friends and family and join the sea of super Santas to walk, sprint, scoot or jog around the festive 2.5-mile Santa Dash through Hemel Hempstead on Sunday 11 December starting at 10am! The Hospice will supply Santa suits (reindeer ears for the little ones) and greet you at the finish line with a mince pie, hot drink and shiny medal. Registration costs £15 for adults, £5 for children, or bring the whole family plus the dog for just £35. Sign up now at: www.stfrancis.org.uk/santadash. For further details on all Hospice events, visit: www.stfrancis.org.uk or call 01442 869555

46 Hilltop News Hilltop News 47 48 Hilltop News Hilltop News 49 50 Hilltop News Hilltop News 51 CURVACEOUS COOK

Pumpkin and Sausage Risotto I bought a couple of beautiful local pumpkins, because I couldn’t resist them, but then didn’t know quite what to do with them! I don’t have a sweet tooth, so all those pumpkin pies were out of the question. Then a website I follow came up with this delicious and very pretty recipe. They cooked the pumpkin shell, and served the risotto in it, which looks amazing, but is not essential! Pumpkin, approx.. 1½ lb (you need 1 whole pumpkin to serve the risotto in if you want to). Rice, 14oz - I use cannarolo, you can use Arborio or risotto rice. Sausage of your choice, 7oz. I use a slightly spicy one, and Heck Italian Chicken ones are very good for this recipe. One vegetable stock cube. One onion. Olive oil. Salt and pepper. Knob of butter. Grated parmigiano reggiano. Dash of white wine. I like sage with pumpkin, and add a few finely sliced leaves with the stock. Cut the top off the pumpkin and scoop out the pulp, throwing away the seeds, unless you are going to make nibbles with them or feed them to your chickens, who love them! Cover the pumpkin and the top with tinfoil, then bake in the oven for 1 hour. Cook the pumpkin’s pulp in a pan with a little water for about 20 minutes, until softened, then mash it, reducing it into a puree. Remove the skin of the sausages and chop them into small chunks. Bring 2 pints of water to the boil, add the stock cube and make the stock. Chop the onion finely and stir fry it in a pan with up to 2 tablespoons of olive oil (as usual, I use Frylight or a splash of olive oil). Add the sausage and cook it for about 10 minutes, until it starts to brown. Add the washed rice, then simmer with the white wine until reduced and continue stirring for a couple of minutes. Add the pumpkin puree, salt and pepper, then slowly pour the stock into the risotto as it dries out. Cook for 15-18 minutes, remove the pan from the flame and add a knob of butter to make the risotto more creamy. Serve the risotto in the warm carved pumpkin. Sprinkle it with grated parmesan or pecorino, and I would add freshly chopped parsley because I love it, but no need to if you don’t. Lulu Stephen: [email protected]

52 Hilltop News Hilltop News 53 54 Hilltop News Hilltop News 55 V V V Dear Diary

December 2016 100 Club 10th Christmas Food Fest – St Leonards Parish Hall – 10am 11th HCCPS Conservation Group Working Party – 9.30am-12.30pm winners 14th Pub Lunch Club – The Black Horse – 12.30pm 15th Good Neighbours Group AGM – Cholesbury Village Hall – 2.30pm St Leonards Parish Hall 19th WI – St Leonards Parish Hall – 8pm September 2016 21st Tea Party – St Leonards Church Room – 3pm £25 Eva Marascotti, St Leonards £15 Alex Pemberton, Buckland Common January 2017 £15 Jim Matthews, Cholesbury 6th Local History Group – St Leonards Parish Hall – 8pm For membership, please contact the Treasurer, Richard Leat on 758784. 15th HCCPS Conservation Group Working Party – 9.30am-12.30pm 16th WI – St Leonards Parish Hall – 8pm Cholesbury Village Hall 11th Pub Lunch Club – The Black Horse – 12.30pm October 2016 21st Defibrillator warenessA Session – Cholesbury Village Hall – 10am-12 £25 Julia Swallow, Buckland Common 23rd Parish Council Meeting – St Leonards Parish Hall – 8pm £15 John Garner, Cholesbury, 25th Tea Party – St Leonards Church Room – 3pm £10 Sylvia Rolfe, Buckland Common 29th HCCPS Conservation Group Working Party – 9.30am-12.30pm November 2016 £15 Peter Windus, Chivery £15 Andy Tullet, Buckland Common. February 2017 For membership, please contact Brigid 3rd Local History Group – St Leonards Parish Hall – 8pm Farmer on 758715, or email brigid.farmer@ 8th Pub Lunch Club – The Black Horse – 12.30pm gmail.com 12th HCCPS Conservation Group Working Party – 9.30am-12.30pm 26th HCCPS Conservation Group Working Party – 9.30am-12.30pm V V V 27th Parish Council Meeting – Cholesbury Village Hall – 8pm

56 Hilltop News Hilltop News 57 Hilltop News

We welcome all news, letters and articles which are of general interest and relevance to the Hilltop Villages. Material for inclusion in the February/March edition should be sent to Graham Lincoln or Anne Butterworth (Church Matters) by 11 January latest. Please note that photos sent online must be at least 2,500 x 1,750 pixels in size.

Editor Graham Lincoln 758449 [email protected] Co-ordinator/Church Matters Anne Butterworth 758700 [email protected] Advertising Ann Horn 758250 [email protected] Design & Production Michael Spark 758882 [email protected] Distribution Rosemary Pearce 758334 Printer Strongs, Berkhamsted 01442 878592 [email protected]

Hilltop News’ finances Hilltop News is non-profit making and its production and distribution is funded by sales of advertising which amounted to £6,418 in 2015 compared with £6,059 in 2014. After all expenses there was a surplus in 2015 of £303 whereas in 2014 there was a surplus of £894. At the end of 2015 Hilltop News’ reserves against deficits and future unexpected costs amounted to £6,588. As a result of this relatively comfortable position the Committee approved a donation of £1,500 to The Hospice of St Francis, Berkhamsted. If you have any questions on Hilltop News’ finances please contact the Editor.

58 Hilltop News Taylors Tools LTD 43-45 Hempstead Road, Kings Langley,Herts, WD4 8BS 01923 268355 www.taylorstools.co.uk [email protected]