The Loddon Valley Link

Church and Community Magazine Issue497

February 2017

Page 1 www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk Editorial Welcome to the February 2017 issue of the Loddon Valley Link. Thanks to Howard Perkins for a great Christmas issue - he was rather thrown in at the deep end for his first issue as editor! this is a quiet month after the extravagances of the Christmas festival, but you should find plenty of items of interest. It's great to have a letter from our Minister, Stephen Ball, as he continues his recovery. Jane Abrams Many thanks once more to John Darker for Contents sourcing and providing another extremely interesting article on the Barker family. It gives a Breach Lane Chapel 6 real flavour of rural life in the late nineteenth Minister’s Letter 7 century. Prayer Page 8 Gardening Club 11 Our Borough Councillor's report includes news of Evergreens 11 proposals for alternative waste collection in the Messy Church 13 Borough when the current contract ends in 2018. Sherfield Village Hall 17 One option being explored is that grey and green Matters 19 bins should be collected in alternate weeks (i.e., WI 19 each fortnightly). See www..gov.uk/ Sherfield Park PC 22 press-releases for further details, release dated Borough Councillor 24 10/1/2017. NWR 29 Gill Coles 29 Events happening in our churches include special Country Pursuits 30 communion services for Lent, to be held every Sherfield-o-L PC 32 Wednesday morning (p. 5). Our WWI Dead 34 On churches, we need more organists to play for Café Society 34 our regular services in our benefice churches, so if Stratfield Saye PC 37 you can play and would like to get involved in Calling All Organists 37 church music do get in touch - details on p. 37. Civil Service Rtmt Fllwshp 41 Beat Report 42 The cover photograph for this issue was taken by St Michael’s Hospice 46 Terry Raisborough - many thanks to her. As ever, Probus 48 do keep your photographs coming in for our Loddon Players 50 covers. Also, we are always on the lookout for Small Ads 60 interesting feature articles. Please send all Useful Tel. Nos 61 submissions to: [email protected].

Distribution: The Loddon Valley Link is hand distributed to over 2,000 houses across the parishes of , Sherfield Park, Stratfield Saye, Hartley Wespall and . Also available online; www.loddonvalleylink.org.uk.

Page 2 Page 3

Services February 2017 Services (con)

Sunday 5th Mar Lent 1 Sunday 5th Feb 4th Sunday before Lent 10.00am Holy Communion St Leonard’s Sherfield 10.00am Holy Communion St Leonard’s Sherfield 10.00am Family Service St Mary’s Stratfield Saye 10.00am Family Service St Mary’s Stratfield Saye 6.30pm Evensong St Mary’s Hartley Wespall 6.30pm Evensong St Mary’s Hartley Wespall 9.00am Sunday@nine St James Bramley 9.00am Sunday@nine St James Bramley 10.30am Matins St James Bramley 10.30am Matins St James Bramley Children are welcome at all our services. Services in italics are particularly Sunday 12th Feb 3rd Sunday before Lent geared to children and families. 10.00am Morning Worship & St Leonard’s Sherfield Sunday Club 8.00am Holy Communion St James Bramley begins on ASH WEDNESDAY (Wednesday 1st 9.00am Sunday@nine St James Bramley March) 10.30am Holy Communion St James Bramley On this and all other Wednesdays in Lent there Sunday 19th Feb 2nd Sunday before Lent will be a short service of Holy Communion at St 10.00am Holy Communion & St Leonard’s Sherfield Leonard’s at 10.00 a.m. Sunday Club

6.30pm Evensong St Mary’s Hartley Wespall We shall hold these in the Church Room and invite everyone to share tea / coffee 8.30am Holy Communion Little London after the service. Make a note of the dates .....it would be good to see you at these 10.30am Together in Worship St James Bramley brief reflective services as we prepare for Easter : Wed. 1st March Wed. 8th March Wed. 15th March Friday 24th Feb Wed. 22nd March Wed. 29th March Wed. 5th April 4.15pm Messy Church Sherfield Park Community Centre St Leonard’s Church Room is Sunday 26th Feb Sunday next before Lent available for hire The new church room is a light modern space 10.00am Together in Worship - St Leonard’s Sherfield all age service with kitchen and toilet facilities. Suitable for meetings or children’s parties! 9.00am Sunday@nine St James Bramley For more information about hiring please 10.30am Holy Communion St James Bramley contact: [email protected] Weds 1st Mar Ash Wednesday 01256 882788 10.00am Holy Communion St Leonard’s Sherfield 7.30pm Holy Communion St James Bramley

Page 4 Page 5 BREACH LANE CHAPEL Minister’s Letter Sherfield on Loddon Dear friends. future ‘good’ again. In Geoff Belsham 01256 882534/07519 708416 May I wish you a very happy, peaceful the cold light of day, I Transport is available for all events at the chapel and blessed New Year, since this is both cannot easily answer to my first letter of 2017 and my first these questions without Services for February magazine letter for a while - though it will making someone or still be some time before I am allowed something other than nd Thursday 2 7.45pm House Group & Bible Study at 7 Pound back to my duties. My head injury, though me responsible or to Close, Bramley to me fairly light, or so it seemed, turned blame. I mean, who is out have quite an effect on our lives. It to blame when bad things happen? rd Friday 3 10.30am Coffee Morning at the Chapel rather shocked me that the impact of Sometimes, on the face of it there really is something so apparently small could someone who makes our lives hell; let’s th Sunday 5 10.30am Family Worship led by Steve Smith necessitate ‘relearning’ everyday activities face it, we can occasionally be the cause previously taken for granted. of our own unravelling too, even where we Tuesday 7th 7.45pm Deacons Meeting at Frimley Road blame others. That requires a different Several people I have spoken to recently strategy. However, in most of life’s have characterised 2016 as a ‘bad year’, Friday 10th 10.30am Coffee Morning at the Chapel circumstantial events there is really no for very understandable reasons, and are one, or indeed anything, that can be to th hoping that 2017 will be a much better, blame. For me, it is all just life in all of its Sunday 12 10.30am Family Worship led by Geoff Belsham kinder one. Indeed, we have faced many intricacy, beauty and fragility. Likewise, it challenges ourselves in the latter months. th has become clear that notions of good or Tuesday 14 7.45pm Church Meeting at Frimley Road Whilst my first spell in hospital - including bad luck, fate, touching wood, rabbit’s feet the operation and aftercare - was rather nor any charm can influence our future in Thursday 16th 7.45pm House Group & Bible Study at 7 Pound serene (does that sound strange?) and any way. Close, Bramley quite a spiritual learning experience, the second episode was altogether more For me life is extremely logical, as is my Friday 17th 10.30am Coffee Morning at the Chapel traumatic and life changing, stripping faith. Life, though, is also mysterious and away several aspects that rendered me unpredictable; but then, as a Christian, th Saturday 18 2pm Through the Roof Club led by Geoff less able and quite dependent on others. I that is where the logic of God comes in. In Belsham had to surrender my driving licence and I the unpredictability and fragility of this am still not certain of how the little things world, there is the tiny, vulnerable baby Sunday 19th 10.30am Chapel Anniversary led by Neil Owen of life will look in future, though I am Jesus, ‘God with us’, in the toughest moments. In the nitty-gritty and struggle of including Holy Communion and followed optimistic. Be assured, though, I really am everyday life, there is the carpenter of by Lunch on the mend and look forward to resuming my work in time. Nazareth; ‘God with us’, hard at work, nd paying the bills and putting out the Wednesday 22 2pm Midweek Fellowship led by Geoff All of that has made me think, and I have rubbish. In the risen Christ, God is still Belsham realised that I just don’t see life in terms of with us, laughing with us in joy and crying what makes a ‘good’ or ‘bad’ day, week or with us in sorrow; never leaving us, Friday 24th 10.30am Coffee Morning at the Chapel year. For me a day is a day and a year always, always with us whether we feel it just a measurement of time. The th or not. Many abandon God because they Sunday 26 10.30am Family Worship ascription ‘good’ or ‘bad’ means that I think he is to blame or is angry or has would be forced to ask myself just who or ‘allowed’ or ignored suffering. On the 6pm Contemporary Worship at St Andrews what made it good or bad. Then, if it was contrary God accompanies us still in every Methodist Church ‘bad’, I would be further pressed to circumstance and, if we will put our trust in answer as to who or what would make the him, will reach out for us and catch us as (Continued on page 8) Page 6 Page 7 www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk (Continued from page 7) everyone for all of the kind messages, not to mention support and practical help we emerge through the ‘barrier’ of death etc. Thank you, thank you. into his nearer presence. For me, that is the miracle of Christmas and real hope Stephen (Vicar) 01256 881071 for the New Year. [email protected] Lorna and I are extremely grateful to

Prayer Page

For it is by grace you have been become the people you would have us saved, through faith - and this be. not from yourselves, it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no Through your grace, have mercy. In the one can boast. For we are God's name of Christ. Amen workmanship, created in Christ In Jesus name we pray. Amen Jesus to do good works. Ephesians 2 : 8-10 The NIV Bible Prayer Points for February Prayer for the Month Pray for Stephen our Rector, that he may Loving God, once more we have failed continue to recover and that he may you and once more we seek your pardon. return to full health. Forgive us that, like your people throughout the ages, we are all too Pray for the future of Syria and Iraq, that human, our spirits willing but our flesh the violence may end and peace may weak, our intentions good but our living come to these troubled regions. up to them poor, our commitment real but our discipleship all too often a failure. In the long winter days pray for those who are lonely and isolated. Seek out Forgive us that, though you speak to us your neighbour and look for ways to be through your word and through your of help. voice, which is there for all who are ready to hear it, we have repeatedly Pray for the sick known to you, that they been slow to listen. may know God’s peace.

Forgive us that, though you are always Pray for those who have been bereaved faithful, we have been unfaithful in so in the past year as they face the long much. winter days alone. Forgive us that, though you are worthy of all praise, and though each day you draw near to us, we do not make time for you.

Loving God, help us to recognise our faults and turn to you so that we may

Page 8 Page 9 www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk Sherfield and District Gardening Club seasonal gardener at the Beth Chatto Gardens. After leaving the Beth Chatto Gardens Steve worked as a Plant Area Manager at Hillier Garden Centre and then moved to his current role as Product Manager at Hillier Nurseries in . His role involves sourcing new plant varieties to Image courtesy of Hillier Gardens add to the range and ensuring all of the th two million plants grown annually are of a Our February talk on the 20 is being high standard. He is even part of the given by the ever popular Steve Austin. prestigious Royal Horticultural Society Steve’s previous talks to the club have Chelsea Flower Show staging team for been ‘Planning & Planting for the Year Hillier Nurseries. Ahead’ and ‘Beth Chato’s Garden’. This time it will be be ‘Westonbirt’s Magical Our March talk will be given by Derek Maples’ - about the best varieties for your Dexter and will be ‘Growing and Showing garden, and how to care for them. Fuschias’. Steve obtained a National Diploma in For arrangements contact: Horticulture at Writtle College in Essex Dan on 882680 or Andy on 882350 before going on to gain experience as a

Evergreen's Club report by May MacQueen During the month of December we had re-elected and also a new member was our Christmas lunch at the Four elected. This was followed by Horseshoes which everyone enjoyed. suggestions for our programme for the Our first meeting of 2017 was our AGM year 2017 and also an outing later in the and our Chairperson/Treasurer Jean year. The meeting ended with tea and Berntsen gave the finance report for year biscuits, and our monthly raffle. ending 31st December 2016. We also The next meeting on the 6th February at held the election of the committee for 1.30pm is a talk by a speaker from the 2017. The previous committee were charity DEBRA.

Don't Dine Alone Cherry Blossom Manor is extending its Contact details: Christmas 'Don't Dine Alone' campaign to Cherry Blossom Manor cover the winter period. We are inviting German Road local elderly residents to join us on Bramley Fridays between 12:30 and 13:30 for a Hampshire fish and chips lunch. The only cost RG26 5GF involved is the telephone call to let us Tel: 01256 886436 know that you would like to attend.

Page 10 Page 11 www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk

www.classictreeservices.co.uk

Friday 24th February 2017

Theme - Hidden Treasures All welcome! Lots of craft, worship and tea for the children Activities will include treasure finding, treasure making and eating treasure! 4.15 Arrive, register, prepare for worship 4.30 Worship followed by craft activities 5.15 Meal - cafe style (finish at 5.30pm) PLEASE NOTE - IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT YOU BOOK in order for us to plan catering and avoid waste (and please advise of any food allergies). For more information and to book, please contact Peta Alvares: [email protected] or on Facebook: messychurchsol

Parish Registers

Wedding Victoria Sturgess and Elliot Hewett 23.12.16 Sherfield Funeral Betty Mattock 09.01.17 Sherfield Page 12 Page 13 www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk

GARDEN MACHINERY SERVICES

Miles Elliott Servicing Repairs Tuning Adjustment Sharpening

Turgis Green Phone/Fax: 01256 882224 Mobile:07810573479E-mail: [email protected]

Now’s the time for servicing

Children's Society

Once again it's time to call the Children's February. As always please feel free to Society boxes in. Would all box holders contact Jeannette on 01256 882753 and I be kind enough to bring them to St will be happy to collect your box. Thank Leonard's church no later than the you in anticipation of your second Sunday in February 2017. The co-operation. boxes have to be emptied, counted and Jeannette Kirby and Neville Biden the contents banked by the end of

St Leonard's Church is 900 years old!

We will be celebrating this very announced in future important anniversary for St magazines and elsewhere - Leonard's Church, Sherfield-on- keep looking out for this, but in Loddon, throughout the Spring the meantime put the dates in Bank Holiday weekend (i.e. 26th your diary. It's going to be - 29th May). There will be a great, but we need lots of flower festival and lots of support! activities which will be

Page 14 Page 15 www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk herfield illage popular this sort of event is. I hope S V that the village hall volunteers host Hall Matters more of these events. We will most Reg.Charity No 272385 certainly attend.” volunteer team enjoy ‘At the heart arranging events and thank all the of our families for making it such a happy community occasion. To help us at events for over contact Natalie: 880075. 100 years’ Winter Barn Dance Fundraiser on Sat 28th Jan. ‘What a great afternoon at the 8:00 - 12:00 Doors open 7:30 village hall.’ £15 inc. Fish & Chip Supper with Pitchfork and caller Cash Bar with Real Ale Tel. 01256 880075

Village Coffee Morning Coffee, Cake & Company 2nd Sat. each month Sat 11th February 11.0am SVHall

The Garage at Sherfield

www.thegarageatsherfield.co.uk On Sunday afternoon, 15th Jan, the Show your support for our valued

village hall by donating £12 p.a. volunteer Friends of SVH invited families to the hall. At £3 per head, a Contact Di on 07796 045 944 Goddard’s Lane, Sherfield-on-Loddon, HOOK, Hants. RG27 0EZ pleasing 93 tickets were sold. A Hire SVHall review from a local Dad: MOT’s Cars and Tel: 07468 427684 Motorcycles Service “Excellent puppet show by the Garlic 90% of Diagnostics [email protected] our work Repairs Theatre company, Jack and the is repeat Air Conditioning Beans Talk. Very clever adaptation of business Recovery the story which held both adults and Collection and Delivery service available. children’s attention for the whole SVHall show. Tea, coffee and biscuits were www.sherfieldvillagehall.co.uk Tel: 01256 882271 also served which just completed the Mobile: 07812 939 498 th whole experience. Very well attended, Proms Night Sept. 9 2017 which I think is a testament to how Page 16 Page 17 www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk Sherfield Park Matters

Sherfield Park Community Association you think we are doing well and where we might do better. You might Your Community Association's sole goal is to want to become a trustee, or perhaps you just serve the community. Our second biggest want more information or to become more asset is the Community Centre building itself. involved. Whatever the case, please join us. We use the building not just as a source of Feel free to bring the little ones as we will try revenue (we are self-funding and have to pay to have something to keep them occupied. all the usual bills), but as a place where we And for you, there will be free food and drink. can host nurseries, youth groups, day-care, concerts, an Over 55's social group, exercise The Shop classes, parties, business meetings, craft The SPCA has been negotiating the two groups, and anything else our community relevant leases (one with Croudace and one needs. But our biggest asset is the people with Kerminder Gill) and we have agreed all who volunteer to help. The Sherfield Park of the major points of both leases. It is now Community Association (SPCA) is a up to the solicitors to iron out a few technical registered charity, run by a group of volunteer details; but the bottom line is (1) fitting of the trustees. And the trustees want to hear from shop should begin early February with the you. We want your input, your comments, stocking of the shelves immediately thereafter your involvement. So you are invited to an and (2) we are still planning on the shop Open House at the Community Centre on opening in late February. We will be able to Sunday, 5 February 2017. From 11:30 until provide a definitive update at our Open 2:00 PM. It will be a good chance to meet and House and you can always check on the talk to our current trustees. We will tell you of current status on our web page at our plans and concerns. You can tell us what http://www.sherfieldparkcommunity.co.uk.

WOMEN’S INSTITUTE from Ilene Iles

Reported by Ilene Iles and sandwiches and a browse around our “Bring Our Meetings in December and January were and Buy” stall. chaired by our President, Doris L’Enfant. The December Meeting began with a shortened The business part of the meeting resumed business meeting and we then watched a with members voting on the six resolutions to presentation by Dusty Taylor on wrapping a be put forward to the Annual Meeting of the bottle for Christmas or other celebrations. National Federation of Women's Institutes Most of those present took part and produced later in the year. The resolution that attracted a wonderful selection of specially wrapped most votes was “Plastic soup: keep micro- bottles. The afternoon continued with singing plastic fibres out of our oceans”. carols and Christmas songs, a quiz, readings Next events: annual lunch at BCOT at 12 and a delicious tea and Christmas cake th noon on Thursday 9 February 2017; next (made by Val Denny and iced by Sylvia st meeting Wednesday 1 March 2017 at 2 pm Contact Roy on 01256 861462 Miles). in Sherfield Village Hall. Speaker to be Mobile: 07798 570443. Our January meeting began at the earlier confirmed. time of 12 noon to allow members to go home To find out more about us go to our web site Website: www.molegone.co.uk in the daylight. We started with the business – www.hampshirewi.org.uk and then click on meeting as usual but had a break half way Sherfield-on-Loddon. through to allow those present to enjoy soup

Page 18 Page 19 www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk

The Four Horseshoes Old Reading Road

Sherfield on Loddon Update on Broadband - Sherfield Park RG27 2EX Tel: 01256 882296 Email: [email protected] Cabinet 16 order placed

After a successful fund raising campaign, our Broadband Champions group has A warm welcome awaits you at our traditional village completed all of the admin required to order the connection for Cabinet 16. The connection fee has been fully paid, with an expectation of connection mid-2017. pub Meanwhile, BT Openreach has notified residents on Cabinet 15 (the third of The Quiz nights, live music events and much much more Park closer to the A33) that their enablement date has slipped from spring to summer 2017. The Broadband Champions will be springing back into action to start Skittle Alley/Function Room available. a letter-writing campaign to hold Openreach to its promise. Watch the Parish Council Facebook page, or sppcnews.blogspot.co.uk for details Follow our Facebook page (thefourhorseshoessol) for all

the info

Page 20 Page 21 active programme running - acquiring have now been turned back on. The equipment, and police involvement. At success required resolving debates over about £3,000, equipment is the biggest ownership and responsibility. We now challenge. A grant of £800 is being have both a regular process and firm provided by Cllr Elaine Still from her contacts within all involved organisations. Speak Out organising this year. Hundreds of homes Hampshire County Council budget and From now on, if you spot public facilities It's going to be a busy year for strung up holiday lights, with four we're currently working to source further in need of repair on the Park, report them consultations. We've already collected remarkable displays taking home prizes. grant money; we're talking to Sherfield- to Herbert at Your Council also took over decoration of on-Loddon and Bramley about the and submitted views from residents about [email protected]. the borough's public transportation plan. the tree in Gaiger Avenue roundabout, possibility of group funding equipment we (Amongst the popular opinions: buses made possible by sponsorship from Park- can share between us. Once that's in Follow Us based company Ur Next Move. We asked take too long and don't run early and late hand, we work with our PCSOs to agree For more timely news and regular the community for feedback on how to enough for London commuters; arriving where we're allowed to monitor, and opportunities to influence our work, make next year's event better. Look out and departing from stops before the make sure they're ready to take our please follow Sherfield Park Parish for different categories that recognise posted scheduled time means you can't reports. We hope to have a programme in Councillors on Facebook. Check our smaller individual efforts, a route map, rely on them; some kind of cashless operation this spring. news page at sppcnews.blogspot.co.uk also possibly online voting, and a payment option would be useful.) We'll Streetlights and our website at see at least two consultations about new community event to encourage viewing www.sherfieldparkparishcouncil.gov.uk. housing developments in the first quarter lights on a particular night. We'll also be After a consolidated push by Cllr Herbert of the year. Your Council hosted a looking for volunteers for a committee to Goodenough, streetlamps around the meeting on 16 January to display and make these expanded activities happen. Park that have been broken for years discuss plans for nine new homes We hope you'll be interested! between , Sherfield Park and Community Committee the A33. Consultation for a much larger Councillors elected Cllr Ellen Bencard to development of 450 homes, southeast of take over the Community Committee us across the A33, will open soon. The chair on 17 January. This committee is borough will soon be formally asking dedicated to building community spirit residents for opinions on alternative through events and activities that get weekly rubbish collection, sure to be hotly more people involved. We're currently contested...but an unsurprising response discussing possibilities for programming to budget cuts. over the next year. Look out for invitations Your Council publicises all consultations online to attend drop in sessions to give and submits consolidated opinions on your ideas to Ellen, or contact her at behalf of the community...the more we [email protected] hear from you, the better our responses Other committees are Finance, run by Cllr can be. We also encourage you to send Chris Wilson, and Planning, run by Cllr your own opinions directly to the relevant Jenny Vaux. Residents are invited to all officials. Watch our online official committee meetings. communications sources for details. Speedwatch Light Up Sherfield Park We now have five residents trained on Having finished its second year, Light Up speedwatch equipment and two more on Sherfield Park is well on its way to the waiting list. (We are always looking becoming an established annual tradition. for more volunteers.) Two things need to Thanks to Cllr Audrey Gordon for happen, however, before we can get an

Page 22 Page 23 www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk Borough Councillor's Report

A Happy New Year to you all.

AWC…what does this mean to me? It is the abbreviation for Alternative Waste Collection which is being considered by Borough Council. Before we all panic, it is one of the options being considered when the current waste contract comes to an end and I want perhaps leave five minutes earlier in to assure you that nothing has been the morning. decided at this present time. There More roadworks are due to start soon will be a public consultation in the with the upgrading of the three summer with the decision made in the roundabouts…one of the Ring Road autumn. There are several factors roundabouts, the Red Man (at the that the Council has to consider: the junction with Crockford Lane) and the increasing amount of houses being Tesco roundabouts are all set to be constructed, the state of the done at the same time. While this is a economy, the increase in wages and cheaper option for Hampshire County the cost of diesel, to name but a few. Council it will cause problems for us BDBC has to explore all possible all so please be patient. In the long options to balance the books but this term we are told the traffic will flow is only one of them. I believe it is a better. backward step for residents especially with reduced hours at the And finally: Basingstoke tip, which will lead to Drones! For many this a new toy more fly tipping. which at present can be used without The A33 continues to cause chaos a licence but they should be flown across our area with several major responsibly away from housing. I had accidents in the last six weeks. With one across my windscreen last week more houses planned for the site to in Chineham…could have been the east of Basingstoke, near the nasty. If anyone is missing one incinerator, it is only going to get please get in touch worse. Road conditions at this time of the Cllr Joyce Bowyer year are poor with increased water on Ward councillor for Chineham/ the roads, frosty mornings and snow, Sherfield Park so please watch your speed and

Page 24 Page 25 www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk

Page 26 Page 27 www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk NATIONAL WOMEN'S REGISTER

Christmas was celebrated with a traditional bit of tasting too! Last party in December, with party food and year three of our drinks followed by party games and ‘Secret members visited India, each going to Santa’. However, a proper Christmas meal slightly different areas with a bit of overlap, West Green Road, Hartley Wintney was enjoyed at the Four Horseshoes in and they will present an illustrated talk on RG27 8LP January, after the Christmas/New Year their visits, explaining what they enjoyed Open June (date varies) to late frenzy. It was lovely to sit down to a meal and what they didn’t. As usual, we will hold September for Pick Your Own & Picked that we didn’t have to help prepare! our regular evenings which are very popular – our music evening, play reading, fruit, vegetables and flowers including Also in January we held our planning ramble and safari supper. An extra event Strawberries, Tayberries, Currants, meeting to discuss our programme for the this year is to organise our NWR Area Quiz Gooseberries, Raspberries, New year. The national theme this year is for groups in our region. This will take Potatoes & Asparagus; local Honey, ‘Women in Film’ and the country theme is place on St Patrick’s Day in the village hall Brazil. As usual with our country themes, Free Range Eggs and Homemade and for this we have a separate committee we organise an evening where we eat Jams & Ice Creams to organise it. Questions have been some of the food from that particular prepared and we will be testing them out at country, take part in a quiz and prepare CALL 01252 845772 a trial run to invited guests. We are also some short talks on aspects of the country. st doing a buffet meal. from May 1 for information, & to place It is always a fun, well-attended evening. orders or visit As for the national theme, we decided to Our next meeting in February will be called www.westgreenfruits.com talk about actresses who do more than just ‘Guess who’s coming to dinner?’ We have act. For example, we will research those to describe our dinner guest and everyone who take up humanitarian causes and/or has to guess who that person is. raise money for charity. As well as the two If you would like to see what NWR is about, themes, we plan to hold a wine evening please give me a ring on 882106. with a wine expert talking about the various wines and where they come from. Maybe a Gill Fearon

Gill Coles

Phil Coles and family (Mark, Debbie, which were so very welcome and Gary and Jane) would like with immense comforting. gratitude to thank friends, family and We wish to thank so many of you for neighbours for all their thoughtfulness assisting at and attending the Service on and care through the tough times we 8th December, together with the generous experienced during and after dear Gill’s donations. These amounted to £1,100:00 passing. and has been forwarded to Macmillan We all so appreciate the support you Cancer Support in Gill’s memory. have given us; your many kindnesses Thanks also to Sammie Armstrong, Jane made such a difference. You all went to Abrams and the bell-ringing team for a extraordinary lengths to shower us with personal caring Service. care, love, personal notes and cards

Page 28 Page 29 The Barkers and Country Pursuits. but I am glad to say he was able to go on sporting again. We then crossed close to Sherfield trophies. Mrs Continuing our series of articles on the Barker family often hosted substantial Court, over the road to Buckfield Park Burnett has Barker family and local Victorian life pre-hunt breakfasts at their home in and back by the side of Wildmoor to the hunted Even though we live in an area with Sherfield, as well as a point to point in the fields close to St Leonards. Here he beat principally with beautiful countryside, the nature of summer and annual Hunt Dinners and us after a capital run of an hour and the Garth and today’s electronic driven world means Dances. Interestingly it appears from the fifteen minutes. Mr Barker invited us all in Vine hounds, that we take much less interest in and reports in the papers that the foxes all too as usual and after lowering his whiskey and many may even actively dislike the sort of frequently escaped their pursuers. barrel a hoop and emptying a few bottles stories are told country pursuits that were at the heart of A typical account in the newspaper from of cherry brandy, we lighted a cigar and of her exploits rural life in the nineteenth century. Fox December 26th 1894 shows just how jogged off home some having a journey on "Duke", a hunting is controversial today but was an widely the hunt ranged. of twenty miles in front of them.’ Dartmoor pony, under 13 hands interest of many people around ‘After a scrumptious breakfast provided In common with the Mayor, Mr Barker Basingstoke. Oscar Wilde had one of his by the hospitable Mayor of Basingstoke also suffered his share of mishap as high, who characters describe hunting as 'the on the occasion of the meet in the Market reported in 1878. ‘Sherfield seems to would jump anything higher unspeakable in full pursuit of the Place, a move was made for Carpenter’s have been the centre of accidents of late. than he could uneatable', but few people saw anything Down, through the crowded streets, A sensation was caused last Saturday in look over, and wrong in it at a time when horses were an which was an anxious time for White and this village when news came that the who safely essential part of life. the whippers. At the Down, we found at Rev. A.G. Barker had been thrown from once and after a lot of rattling about in his horse while hunting. Such, however, carried his The main hunt was the Vine which Mrs. Douglass Burnett (née this covert, they ran into their fox which was not the case. The rev. gentleman youthful worked the land both north and south of mistress over Miss Violet Barker) struggled to get away through the had dismounted and whilst in the act of Basingstoke, from Mortimer to many an hundreds of people on foot. We trotted off remounting the horse swerved to one Micheldever, with ‘Mr Garth’s Hounds’. exciting run. then to Binfields and found the same fox side and he fell against an agricultural The Vine hunt was the centre of a social th scene with weekly winter outings. The which gave us such a run late on 11 implement, bruising himself very much. 'Although the subject of my portrait thinks November (surely this fox should be We are glad to say that no very serious hunting "a thing worth living for" she has made Lord affair came of it and Mr Barker is many other interests. She is an ardent Mayor of all progressing favourably.’ botanist and most expert gardener, a bed foxes). He of fragrant large-petalled violets (her The sport was as popular with ladies as it now took us name-flower) testifying to her special skill. was with gentlemen, not least with Miss by the side of The fortunate possessor of a beautiful Violet Barker and her younger sister the railway Lillian who, as was the custom for ladies, contralto voice, Mrs Burnett is frequently turning to the rode side saddle. Violet, who became Mrs called upon to sing at various charity right to concerts in the neighbourhood. Although Douglass Burnett on her marriage, was Sherfield Hill a constant visitor among the poor, so well known locally as a skilled then away to understanding and monitoring to their horsewoman and for her other country Bullsdown. wants and needs, she has yet found time pursuits that she was the subject of a Here the local newspaper feature, entitled 'The to write some charming short stories of horsemen fell World of Sportswomen'. hunting episodes. Mrs. Burnett's present about like hunter is a magnificent animal and a ninepins and 'Very devoted to the pursuit of the "little dexterous timber-jumper and both he and the Mayor red fox" is Mrs. Burnett, of Winchfield, his mistress are great favourites in the who had Hants, one of the straightest riders and field.' been riding to most intrepid horsewomen. She has the front took ridden since a tiny child, and gained her what looked first brush at the age of five. Her home like a bad fall, abounds in masks, brushes, and other

Page 30 Page 31 Sherfield-on-Loddon Parish Council www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk December Update

Meeting dates Work has been carried The next Full Parish Council meetings out in January by a are on 8 February at 8.00 pm in the contractor on some trees which were identified in a Hampshire Highways Liddell Hall and on 8 March 2017. survey as unsafe. Please check the parish noticeboards or the website for the agendas which Animals on the Village Green are posted before the meetings. Please ensure that you keep your Works on the Village Green animals under full control when on the village green. Members of the Parish Following the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust consultation on Council are concerned that some dog the Sherfield-on-Loddon village green walkers allow their pets to run off and are not keeping an eye on them. the Parish Council engaged contractors to dredge some of the Dog Fouling ditches on the green. The aim is to A repeated plea – please dispose of improve the flow of water through the dog waste bags in the bins provided ditches. In preparation, volunteers or take them home with you. As cleared vegetation and removed mentioned in my previous article, it is some of the trees which have unsightly to drape these bags over colonised parts of the area. A hedges and it makes the job of contractor was also engaged to spray collection much more difficult. This is the weeds at the BMX track and the what we do not want to see:- track has since been tidied up by Dave Miller. Many thanks to all volunteers. Remember, by volunteering and working on the Green you receive a HouseTwenty8 voucher for Coffee and Cake to eat in! You will also have seen that the bund along Goddards Lane has been levelled to ensure maintenance can be undertaken. The Parish Council is looking at installing ‘dragons’ teeth’ which will provide protection and be less intrusive. This is in conjunction Catherine Ryle - Clerk to the Parish with advice which is being sought Council, Sherfield-on-Loddon, from Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council Landscaping on the best way PO Box 6862, Basingstoke RG24 to protect other potential access 4QZ, telephone: 01256 842662 points around the village green that Email: had previously not been addressed. [email protected]

Page 32 Page 33 Remembering Our World War 1 Dead in terms of social outreach,” says Canon John Harkin, vicar of nearby St. Mary’s. “We purchased an excellent coffee Continuing our series of articles on machine and had fun being trained as the men recorded on the Sherfield baristas. With wonderful home-made War Memorial in the centenary cakes thanks to the generosity of our month of their deaths, researched church members, and tables full of craft and written by a local group.. activities for children, we are able to offer a completely free afternoon of

refreshments and fun.” Private William Nicholson.201461, “The children really enjoy themselves 1st/4th Battalion, Hampshire getting involved with all the craft,” said Regiment one parent, while another added: “At the Died 24th February 1917 weekend it’s nice to go out and spend a William Nicholson was born in 1897. fun time together. It’s religious-based He is recorded in the 1901 census, but no-one is trying to force it on us. We aged 4, living with his parents and Which cake? Lisa and Morgan choose. would know where to go if we wanted to www.warmemorialsonline.org.uk ask questions.” older siblings, one brother and two and socialise. It’s better than being at a sisters, in Hackwood Road, Basingstoke. have been present at this time, though his coffee shop.” Some churches draw on already By 1911 the family had moved to Bramley service record has not survived. William’s established cafés to reach out. Rev’d “And it’s an excuse to see my Green, where Thomas Nicholson, William’s battalion, with the 33rd Indian Brigade, Tim Sledge and the team from Romsey granddaughter and participate in the father, worked as the innkeeper of the remained in Mesopotamia and Persia have close links with Sundae’s Child, a cake!” adds Chris. Carriers’ Arms. By this time his older (present day Iraq and Iran) throughout the café and ice cream parlour where, once siblings had left home. war. The idea is to make people feel special, a month on a Sunday, a group of young to give them a bit of a sanctuary, where people take over the upper room for a At the outbreak of war in 1914 William was On 24th February 1917, during an attack someone will serve them real coffee and discussion, and have followed the almost old enough to join up. It is recorded after crossing the River Tigris, William homemade cake and then wash up. If Pilgrim course, a Church of that he enlisted in the Hampshire Regiment Nicholson was killed in action. He was 20 someone needs a listening ear there is resource to help people explore the in Winchester, though the date of his years old. He has no known grave, but is Christine who keeps an eye out for Christian faith together (see enlistment is lost. The 1st/4th Battalion remembered with honour on the Basra anyone on their own or looking a bit lost. www.pilgrimcourse.org). arrived in Basra on 18th March 1915 and it Memorial and the Sherfield on Loddon War is possible that Private Nicholson could Memorial. For the children there are toys, cakes, There is also now a regular Wednesday drinks, a safe place to play and relaxed, morning drop-in session at Caffè Nero happy parents. Not bad for a Monday where people can discuss whatever they morning. want. In addition Caffè Nero hosts the Tree Café Society - More Than A Church Coffee Morning of Life Café supported by the abbey and Further afield, the 3Rs Café pops up local mental health charity Triangulate and 'Live the Mission' is a new magazine One way of sharing faith and food is monthly in Pilgrims’ Cross Church of which features news and activities from through cafés. A collaboration between Southern Health NHS Trust. It meets every England School, in Picket Twenty, Monday afternoon to provide support, across the Diocese of Winchester. An the church and the health service takes Andover. article on church cafés recently place at Christ Church, Chineham, encouragement and advice for people with highlighted an activity in Christ Church, where on Mondays in term time the The 3Rs stand for Relax, Refresh, mental health issues, so that they know Chineham Health Visitor clinic is in one room while Revive. Children can play, and do craft, they are not on their own, that there are ‘Coffee and Co’ is in the next. the tea, coffee, squash and cake are others who can support them. free and plentiful, and the welcome from “I’ve been coming since my daughter You can download 'Live the Mission' at Hospitality and the sharing of food is the church is warm. http://www.winchester.anglican.org/ central to the way Christians express was born,” says Lisa whose father Chris and two-year-old daughter Morgan are “Our objective is to share the love of resources/communications-resources/ their faith, from prayer breakfasts to Jesus by creating an environment enewsandnewsletter/ Lent lunches, coffee mornings, food also regulars there. where we can build relationships, and banks, meals for homeless people, and “It’s a nice secure place for mums [and seek to see where the Lord may lead us of course, communion itself. grandads] with little ones to come out Page 34 Page 35 www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk STRATFIELD SAYE PARISH COUNCIL REPORT At the recent December meeting the Parish Council hope precept for 2017/8 was set at £2,500 and that as many a vacancy was created on the Parish residents as Council by the departure of James Hare possible will attend from the Parish. the service on the Jean Carruthers gave an update on the day. It will involve residents’ committee fundraising the closure of New activities for new playground equipment Street for several hours in order to set and told the Council that the recent up, especially when the Rifles present Halloween party had been a great arms to the arriving dignitaries. Residents success. They hope to run another next will be given all the necessary year and suggestions for further events information nearer the day, with under consideration are a spring disco diversions going around via Trowes and/or a summer barbecue. Lane, by the Church, and along Green Lane. Some residents may already know about an important Parish event scheduled for The next Parish meeting is 6th February next year on Saturday 29th April 2017 2017 in the Village Hall but don’t forget when the Parish Council will unveil a the monthly coffee morning on the first paving stone commemorating the Victoria Mondays of the month - do come along Cross awarded on 29th April 1917 to for a chat and some ‘delicious’ cakes James Welch, born in Stratfield Saye. made by one of our regulars. It is always While this is an important event, with an enjoyable get together for local representatives from the Borough residents and is a great opportunity to Council and Army attending, it is raise any concerns you may have. essentially a Parish celebration so the Penny Mayo, Parish Clerk

Calling All Organists!

The music for the Hartley Wespall, St Mary's Stratfield services at our Saye, St James' Bramley and St benefice services is Stephen's, Little London. If you play the provided by a organ and would be interested in playing dedicated team of for services please contact volunteer organists. [email protected]. If you would like However, at present more information about what's required we desperately need and how the rota works you can talk to an more volunteers to be organist after a service. (Details of times on the team. The and locations of services can be found on churches of the benefice are St pages 4-5 of this magazine.) Leonard's Sherfield-on-Loddon, St Mary's

Page 36 Page 37 www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk

Flute Concert

Saturday 11th February 2017 7:45pm

The Anvil, Basingstoke

Come along and hear local flautist Nick Cartledge play Mozart's Flute Concerto with Basingstoke Symphony Orchestra. Any children or adults who are learning to play the flute can be inspired by listening to Nick's dazzling playing on this beautiful instrument.

We are hoping lots of flute students will attend and so have arranged for Nick to be available during the interval for "Meet the Soloist". You can chat to him and ask any flute related questions!

The Orchestra will also play Beethoven's 8th Symphony, Mendelssohn's A Midsummer Night's Dream Overture and the beautiful Serenade for Strings by Elgar.

Following on from the success of our recent family concert, we are keeping ticket prices for under 16s at just £2 when accompanied by an adult.

Please see our website for more details: www.bso.org.uk and book tickets at anvilarts.org.uk.

Page 38 Page 39 www.Loddonvallylink.org.uk Basingstoke Civil Service Retirement Fellowship

Inspero to receive the £24,000 raised. Besides attending over 380 functions in the borough she also went to the linked Belgian town of Braine L'Alleud to attend the battle of Waterloo’s bicentenary celebrations. Her most abiding memory of The speaker at the Fellowship's meeting the year was though, she said, seeing the on 4th January 2017 was Anne Court, extraordinary amount of voluntary work who gave a talk on her year as Mayor of carried out in Basingstoke by a huge Basingstoke and Deane. The Mayor is number of people spread over a wide the Queen’s representative in the range of organisations. Borough. She gave a history of the The next meeting is on 1st February when position which is an unelected one and is the speaker will be Alan Grace on usually held by the longest serving “Amazing Berlin 1914 – 1989”.

The group meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Brookvale Village Hall from 10 am to 12 noon and all retired Civil Servants and their partners are welcome. The year’s programme and further details about meetings can be obtained from the Secretary Tony Brazier on 01256 418770 or at [email protected] and if you would like to join us on any of our trips please contact Kate Lambeth on 01256 328791.

councillor. She gave details of her charities for the year and the reasons she David Cowling had chosen the Ark Cancer Centre, the Basingstoke Multicultural Forum and

Page 40 Page 41 Beat Report October 2016 (Continued from page 42) owner and ask them what they were doing. Local Police Bramley and Sherfield (BL02) officer believes You may find it helpful to understand a little Monthly Crime Stats Police more about the local police teams and Burglaries: intervention which one is responsible for your area. ASB 5 Burglaries are a Local Beat Priority across will help then If you live in and around , , the whole of Basingstoke. 5 reported they will Assault 4 , Bramley and Sherfield on burglaries were reported over this month. contact us. Burglary Dwelling 2 Loddon (also Stratfield Saye and Harltley Two of these were burglary to a dwelling Please do Burglary non-Dwelling 2 Wespall) you will now come under the new and three were non dwelling burglaries. in report ASB Rural East Neighbourhood area. Sgt Martin Concern for Welfare 0 one of these burglaries, the offender(s) because if it Cullis is responsible for the Safer forced entry through the rear patio door but doesn’t get reported then I will not know that Criminal Damage 4 Neighbourhood team for Basingstoke Rural were disturbed by an alarm sounding which it’s happening and therefore I will not be Driving Complaint 0 East. The team consists of Martin, based at caused them to run off from the scene able to focus my patrol time efficiently Tadley, with 3 PCSOs and 3 PCs. without stealing anything. This goes to show Drink Driving 1 Additional resources can be provided when . the importance of crime prevention and the Drug offences 1 needed by the West area and South areas. role it plays in protecting your property and Suspicious Incidents: Harassment 0 The first point of contact for local issues valuables. Please ensure that your doors There have also been 6 suspicious vehicle/ should be through the PCSO team, but if and windows are locked when you are Public Order offences 2 person reports. you have any questions about the team or leaving your property unattended. If you Road Traffic Collision 0 a particular problem you can contact think “how secure is my home?” and “have I I suspect that a lot of suspicious incidents [email protected]. Suspicious Incidents 7 done as much as reasonably possible to don’t get reported because people don’t police.uk or the 101 system. ensure I have kept my property safe?” on a understand what we do with such reports. Theft 1 Sherfield Park is covered by the policing regular basis, and act on anything you pick When someone rings us via 101 or 999 our Theft from team Basingstoke East Neighbourhood, up, then naturally you will lower your risk of call takers will grade the report according to Vehicle 1 which also includes Chineham, Lychpit and being a victim. risk; these grades range from emergency response to no response at all. However, a Theft of Vehicle 2 . Sgt Trevor Taylor is Please mark your valuables in some way suspicious incident reported at the time it responsible for this team, which consists with your post code or take a picture of happens will normally warrant a quick also of PC James Charlton and PCSO them and any distinguishing marks just in Emergencies response. Nicole Wheatley. Again, the contact case they are recovered by Police, then we As always, please can I ask all residents to address is will be able to return them to you. Just because something is reported as report any suspicious persons, vehicles or [email protected]. suspicious it doesn’t mean anything bad is Anti Social Behaviour: incidents using the 101 telephone number; police.uk actually happening or likely to happen, it’s please only ring 999 if it is a genuine There have been 7 reports of ASB this just something that seems odd for the area, emergency. An easy guide on which Ed. month. That is an increase of 1 reported we would rather receive the call and it turn number to use is this: incident over the last month. out to be nothing to worry about than not Source: http://www.hampshire.police.uk/ receive a call and it turn out to be something Is the incident in progress and is I would like to encourage all residents to internet/my-neighbourhood/basingstoke/ serious. there a risk of injury or damage to report any incidents of anti social behaviour property? – 999 to us on 101, or if you are a resident of If you see anything you consider being Has the incident already happened social housing and your issues are with a suspicious please call us on 101 to report it. and there is no longer any risk? – neighbour also living in social housing If there are any units free at the time of the 101 accommodation, please report any incidents call, they will attend. The majority of the Anything else we need to know to your local housing officer before you suspicious vehicles that have been called in contact the Police. If the offender is also in to us have been with a full registration, and about? – 101 social housing accommodation then your this helps us out a lot when we have this Many thanks, housing association will have more powers line of enquiry. We can normally locate the PCSO Nathan Johnson to tackle it than we do. If your housing (Continued on page 43)

Page 42 Page 43

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Sherfield Park Community Association are recruiting for a part time ADMIN OF- FICER to provide administrative and reception support and a CARETAKER to provide a caretaking and general maintenance and repair service to Sherfield Park Community Centre. ADMIN OFFICER Applicants must have previous administration experience and be positive, polite, organised and reliable. 20 hours per week (morning or afternoon shifts to be agreed and worked between the hours of 9am—6pm Monday to Friday or Saturday 9am—12pm) Rate of pay £8-8.50 per hour (£15,392-£16,354 FTE pro rata)

CARETAKER Applicants must have competence in basic DIY skills and an ability to move and lift heavy items. You must have a flexible working approach, be reliable, practical and self motivated. 20 hours per calendar month (working hours are negotiable with a minimum 1 x 4 hour shift per week between the hours of 9-5pm Monday to Friday) Rate of pay £9.00 per hour (£17,316 FTE pro rata)

The closing date for both posts is Wednesday 15th February 2017 Applicants must also show a commitment to the community of Sherfield Park and its surrounding areas For a job description and person specification please visit www.sherfieldparkcommunity.co.uk download an application form and send to [email protected] For enquiries about this role please contact Candice Wright on 01256 883967

*NEW* THE HUB GetActive & Workout2Music Fun club for young people Every Wednesday in term time Wednesdays 1.30—2.30pm Mini Hub: 6.15-7.15pm Boogie Bounce (School yrs 4-6) Wednesdays 10.30-11.30am Junior Hub: 7.30-8.30pm (Sch yrs 7-9) Youth Hub: 8.30-9.30pm (Sch yrs 10-12)

For details about the above activities visit our website www.sherfieldparkcommunity.co.uk Page 44 Page 45 www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk News from St Michael's Hospice

A record number of people join beehive, or perhaps together to Light Up A Life ladies, you have always wanted to be brave In December, on a beautiful clear night, enough to have your head over 1000 people came along to St. shaved, or gentlemen Michael’s Hospice to pause and your legs or chest waxed. remember loved ones this Christmas. Friday 10th February is the day to give it a try. The service, led by Richard Harlow, You can have great fun and really help Rector of Tadley with and your local Hospice at the same time by Silchester, featured Christmas Carols being sponsored too.’ sung by local choir groups, Viables Voices and the Ooh Mama Ladies Choir Supporting Today – Securing as well as music from the Basingstoke Tomorrow Silver Band. As a local charity St. Michael’s Hospice This year’s Light Up A Life service raised provides all of its services free of charge more than £30,000 from donations in to patients and their families. Each year memory of loved ones. Volunteers helped St Michaels receives less than 20% of its on the night with car parking, making tea funding from the government and so must and handing out glow sticks to all raise in the region of £3.1 million from the participants. Support was provided by De local community through fundraising and La Rue Charitable Trust for their financial retail activities. Gifts in Wills are hugely support as well as to the Rotary important towards this total as they raise Basingstoke Deane, the Apollo Hotel, nearly 10% of the Hospices annual Asset Advantage, Stuart Freeman from income. Leaving a gift in your will is such Hype Photography, Projected Image, B & a wonderful way to give, as it will cost you M Stores. nothing now. We also appreciate that family and friends must always come first Have Fun on Mad Hair Day! in your thoughts when deciding on what gifts to include in your will. However, any Friday 10th February sees the return of gifts, whether small or large, make a huge their fun campaign Mad Hair Day at St. difference to St. Michael’s Hospice and Michael’s Hospice which will take place to will help to protect the future of your local raise much needed funds for the Hospice. hospice for generations to come. The local community are encouraged to wear crazy wigs and style their hair in Whether you have already included St. weird and wacky ways. Michael’s Hospice in your Will, or are considering doing so, we would love to ‘Mad Hair Day’ is the perfect excuse to go hear from you. Please call Jackie Ridge, wild and have fun with your hair’, says Legacy Manager, on 01256 848 854 or Lynne Grimshaw, Community Campaigns email Co-ordinator at the Hospice. ‘Maybe you [email protected] have always wondered what your hair would look like pink, permed or in a Page 46 Page 47 Probus Learns About the Art or Science of the Dowser www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk

when placed in the middle of the pyramid. All present had a dowsing rod made of a wire coat hanger which we had to use to search for articles previously hidden in the room. Some had

According to the British Society of Dowsers, 'to dowse is to search, with the aid of simple hand held tools or instruments, for that which is otherwise hidden from view or knowledge. It is commonly known by most people in success but others had to count association with searching for backwards to stabilise their mental underground water, but it can be also position. One volunteer had the left side used for searching for other underground of his body checked by a dowsing rod to Forthcoming Events features such as archaeological remains, identify any old injuries. Some foods Join Basingstoke Disability cavities and tunnels, oil or veins of were checked if still suitable to eat by mineral ore'. Michael Haxeltine, a suspending a pendulum over it, similar in Connections for a free cuppa and member of the Society, recently gave a style to a plumb line, and if it rotated chat in a friendly atmosphere about presentation to the Probus Club of clockwise the food was edible. anything disability related on the first Basingstoke, which included practical Tuesday of the month 12:30-2:30pm Everyone had a corrugated plastic pipe 10:00-12:00 for an open recruitment demonstrations. Members of the club in the Basingstoke Discovery were encouraged to take part. Sherfield with a weighted end called a bobber meeting. which if rotated clockwise had been used Centre's Community Room. resident, Would you like to get involved with a to find oil fields. All down to our mental Bryan Jenkins, If you have a disability related disability raising awareness event in sat with an process, apparently. enquiry pop in to the Basingstoke & Basingstoke town centre on Saturday open design Michael Haxeltine is an enthusiastic District Disability Forum’s Signpost pyramid over 1st July 2017? Everyone is welcome! amateur member of his society and so is Service on the first Tuesday of the We need volunteers to help run the his head for not listed on their web site but see month from 10:00-12:00 in the event and teams to take part – are half an hour www.britishdowsers.org for more Basingstoke Discovery Centre. which when information about this fascinating subject. you part of a club who would like to removed was For information on the Probus club see Do you want to know more about earn sponsorship for your chosen shown to have their web site becoming a volunteer trustee of charity and for BDDF? Get in touch. created an www.probusbasingstoke.webs.com or Basingstoke & District Disability Email: [email protected] aura of about phone Paul Flint on 07770 886521. Forum? Join us in The Orchard on 75 cms around him. The weighted end of Monday 23rd January 2017 from Tel: 01256 423869 a flexible metal rod was seen to rise Page 48 Page 49 Murder at the Manor lovely www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk A Dinner from the Loddon Players main Attended by Simon Boase course FUNERAL DIRECTORS & enjoyed Happy Faces Play group I was excited to receive my invitation to what by all MONUMENTAL MASONS. Sherfield-on-Loddon was expected to be a lovely evening of food and ALEXANDER & DRY “Bring your happy face to our happy place” and speeches hosted by Sir Clive and Lady looked A small, friendly playgroup for Clarissa Worthington-Jones. It was so nice to forward Twenty four hour service. children aged 2 years 6 mths to school age be formally greeted at the door by his to more Flexible Sessions Lordship himself (staff ‘aint what they used to revelations. We weren't to be disappointed. Pre-paid funeral plans available. including all day be) and see so many people appropriately. Motives, red herrings and some scurrilous 1 Seal Road, Basingstoke, dressed. We quickly settled down at our tales began flying thick and fast once we table, chatting with our friends and discovered who the unfortunate victim was. RG21 7NQ neighbours and getting the latest gossip from We learnt of war crimes, dirty doings on the Tel: 01256 844663 the family as they mingled with the guests. docks, dishonest dealings and a host of Before we realised it the first course was transgressions. These included the fact that Further information: being served. The kitchen was doing sterling MPs can talk for long periods without saying work on our behalf. much but can still be entertaining. Fortunately 01256 880903 Following the first course the action picked up the Rt. Hon. Hugo was not from our parish Prospectus/application form: pace. Surprisingly, Sandy, who seemed like a but he’ll obviously go far . 07791 141176 good egg and obviously a firm favourite with As we prepared for dessert, conversation and [email protected] His Lordship, made a little bit of a spectacle questions were all about us. Some interesting www.happy-faces-playgroup.co.uk of himself, counting his chickens far too early. theories were proposed and swiftly Est. 1982. Charity No. 1029688 His proposal to the lovely Dora was debunked. His Lordship did an excellent job far too precipitous and received a of controlling proceedings, providing answers very firm rejection from a lady who to some of the evening's intriguing questions. obviously knew her own mind. This However there were obviously some far left not only poor Sandy aghast but cleverer people than I at dinner that night His Lordship seemed quite who were able to cut through the morass of perturbed too, being clues and focus on the things that mattered. unaware that her heart lay As for me I enjoyed an entertaining evening elsewhere. (Quite literally as we with some good food and excellent company. discovered shortly). Everyone involved should be thoroughly As appetites rebuilt for the main proud of themselves. course so did the action on the top table. With some particularly THE CAST bravura moments from Dora, Sir Clive Worthington-Jones Pete Francis revealing her desires and some Lady Clarissa Worthington-Jones Jane Hatter details about the family, which were, quite Dora Worthington-Jones Claudia da Rocha Kustner frankly, too much for polite company. This led Hugo Bottomley MP Steve Schollar Madge Thistlewaite Pat Archer to all the family exiting the Dining Room. We Myra Barker-Mowles Louise Hayling were just preparing ourselves for the feast to Sandy Greatham Alan Munday come when 2 shots rang out. By this stage I Ms. Inga Marble Joy L'Enfant was half surprised it was only two shots, no banshee like scream, no falling through For those craving even more murder: shattering plate glass window with a th th sickening thud onto the patio below. SPRING 2017 PRODUCTION ( 27 - 29 Still, two shots were enough. April): Death obviously improves the "OUT OF SIGHT...OUT OF MURDER" appetite as we were treated to a A Mystery Comedy by Fred Carmichael. Page 50 Page 51 www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING SPECIALIST Serving the local community for 30 years

Bathrooms & shower installations Solar thermal installations and energy-friendly controls Gas Safe and Oftec registered for peace of mind with gas and oil installations 29164 Telephone: 01256 882309 Email: [email protected]

YOUR LOCAL TRADE PROFESSIONAL FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING, HEATING & ELECTRICAL NEEDS FOR MORE DETAILS PLEASE CONTACT US: Tel: 01256 880044 MOBILE: 07754 554554 Email: [email protected] www.pscservices.co.uk

Page 52 Page 53 www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk

Call 07545819842

Page 54 Page 55 SMALL ADVERTISEMENTS USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS The dialling code is 01256, unless otherwise stated.

Allotments John Attwood 881760 HOUSE CLEANING BY MARIA. Reliable and affordable service. Basingstoke Gazette Chris Horton 882426 Brownies Sue Handasyde-Dick 882337 Friendly, experienced lady who cleans every corner. Ironing also St. Leonard’s Church See inside back page available. References. Tel 07933 316989. Breach Lane Chapel Geoff Belsham 882534 [email protected] Catholic Church Fr. Chris Rutledge 465214 Clift Surgery Patient Group John Darker 882334 LOCAL EXPERIENCED TAX ADVISER. Self assessment tax Cricket Club (Sherfield) Andy Stevens 882414 Cricket Club (ST & HW) TBC TBC returns, arrears, claims, payroll, self-employed, VAT returns. Evergreens Jean Berntsen 882798 Initial consultation free. Call 01256 882258 or e-mail Football (Junior) Fred Berntsen 882798

[email protected] Happy Faces Playgroup Peggy Hutchins 880903 Loddon Players Peter Francis 07867 547696 INSIDE/OUT Property maintenance, carpentry, decorating, locks Loddon Quilters Jacky Morgan 882350 Loddon Valley Link (See back pages) fitted, garden maintenance. Tel 01256 882696 or 07713 470223. Lunch Club. Helen Belsham 882534 E-mail [email protected] NWR Gill Fearon 882106 Police - Sherfield-on-Loddon PCSO Nicole Wheatley/ 101 WINDOW CLEANER. Windows cleaned or gutters cleared - one PCSO Krystof Nadvornik. 101 off or regularly. Local, reliable window cleaner (testimonials Police - Sherfield Park TBA 101 available). For a quote call Pete Owen on 07762 616600 Police - report an incident Police Control Room Poppies Natalie Larner 880075 [email protected] Post Office 882210 Rainbows Pam Luck 882687 LOCAL INDEPENDENT CLEANER. Honest and trustworthy. Sherfield. Community Care Grp Doreen Tosswill 882344 Excellent service. Excellent references. Excellent rates. Tel Sherfield on Loddon Fete Bruce Batting 882605 07407543891 Sherfield Dist. Gardening Club Dan Farrow and 882680 Andy Morgan 882350 Sherfield Park Community Centre Candice Wright 883967 DOMICILIARY CARER. Mature female; DBS Certified; Public Sherfield Park Parish Council Sue Talbot (Clerk) 07464 010028

SMALL ADVERTISEMENTS SMALL Liability Insurance. Patient and kind, offering personal care and Sherfield & District Show Natalie Larner 880075 assistance to the elderly in their own home. References Sherfield Village Hall available. Michelle 07776 255688. Caretaker/Bookings Wendy Gosden 07468 427684 Management Committee Ivan Gosden 07940 212441 Sherfield-on-Loddon Village Green John Attwood 881760 SECURE STORAGE UNIT. Approx 315 ft² (21ft x 15ft) available Short Mat Bowls Norman Stanley 881021 with 24hour CCTV; alarmed; outdoor hard standing of Stratfield Saye Parish Council Penny Mayo 01189332 379 approximately 3,000 ft². Single phase electricity and individual Stratfield Saye Village Hall Linda Bishop 01189332106 access. To arrange viewing call 07717 536611. Stratfield Turgis Parish Meeting Sheila Campbell (Chair) 882351 Sherfield-on-Loddon Parish Council Catherine Ryle (Clerk) 842662 Toddler Group 0-5s Judith Sullivan 883551 Tree Warden. Jane Jordan 880852 Village Green Volunteers Bruce Batting 882605 Whist Drive Virgilius Vickers 882453 Women’s Institute Christine Skillett 880727

Page 56 Please inform the Editor of changes to the above information. Page 57 Loddon Valley Link Management www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk

ADVERTISING IN THIS MAGAZINE AND ONLINE All advertising enquiries to Pip Iles Tel. 01256 880559 [email protected] Deadline for ads. for next edition is the 10th of the month Small ads - £5 monthly for a maximum of 30 words, space permitting. Requests are dealt with in order. Display ads pricing - please see the website or contact Pip Iles.

Editor for the March edition – Jane Abrams Please submit copy for this edition no later than the 16th February. Send copy to: [email protected]

Committee: Chairman: Dr. Donald Dawson 01256 882379 ([email protected]) Treasurer: Pip Iles 01256 880559 Secretary: Ilene Iles ST. LEONARD’S CHURCH, CHURCH END, 01256 880559 ([email protected]) SHERFIELD ON LODDON, RG27 0JB Rev. Stephen Ball (no mail) Dr. John Williams 01256 882705 Churchwarden: Peter Gould 01256 882538 ([email protected]) Churchwarden: Richard Elphick 01256 882860 Howard Perkins 01256 883882 Treasurer: Dan Farrow 01256 882680 [email protected] Organist: Mike Abrams 01256 881188 Germano Giugovaz 01189 332166 Organist: Brian Archer 01256 882099 ([email protected]) ST. MARY’S CHURCH, STRATFIELD SAYE Claire Osborne 01256 324458 Churchwarden: Dr. John Williams 01256 882705 ([email protected]) Treasurer: Charles Atkinson 01256 882459 Simon Boase 01256 881250 Organist: Dr. Gill Williams 01256 882705 ([email protected]) ST. MARY’S CHURCH, HARTLEY WESPALL Brian Archer 01256 882099 Churchwarden: Pip Iles 01256 880559 ([email protected]) Treasurer: Michael Webster 01256 882413 Jane Abrams 01256 881188 Organist: Dr. Gill Williams 01256 882705 ([email protected]) Organist: Andrew Doggart 01256 880092 MESSY CHURCH, SHERFIELD PARK Church Officers Leader: Peta Alvares 0777 2322202 Priest in Charge: Rev. Stephen Ball ([email protected]) 01256 881071, temporary email [email protected]) (Please note: Stephen’s day off is Monday) Assistant Priest: Rev. Sammie Armstrong 01189 816593 ([email protected]) Curate (priest responsible for Bramley & Little London: Rev. John Lenton 01256 880570 Licensed Lay Ministers : Richard Elphick 01256 882860 Andrew Doggart 01256 880092 John Williams 01256 882705 Church Admin: Lisa Goodall 01256 882788 Please note: the Loddon Valley Link Management ([email protected]) Committee cannot be held responsible for the reliability or quality of any goods, work or services in this publication.

Page 58 Page 59