Hilltop News

April & May 2012 Jubilee plans in full swing… n the build up to the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, the Hilltop Villages are Ipreparing a number of celebratory events we can look forward to… • 2nd June – The annual St Leonards Fete will be Jubilee-themed. • 3rd June - Church is holding a special morning service. • 4th June - The Local History Group is holding a Jubilee exhibition at Village Hall. The Cricket Club is hosting a fun day: the current thinking is that this will replace the fun day previously proposed by the Parish Council for 30 Easter Greetings! June, so as not to over-stretch resources The custom of giving eggs at Easter celebrates and repeat ourselves. In the evening, the new life. The oldest tradition is to use dyed HCCPS will be lighting one of the official or painted chicken eggs. The modern custom celebratory beacons on the Common. of course – to the delight of children – is to More on all these plans inside this issue… give chocolate eggs. They may be hidden for If anyone has any memories/photos from children to find on Easter morning (8 April this past Jubilee celebrations in the Hilltop year) who may be told they were left by the Villages, I would be pleased to hear from Easter Bunny. Have a cracking Easter! you…Ed Included in this issue… Severe Weather Car Scheme • Talented sisters are rising stars of the The Hilltop Villages Good Neighbours small screen. Group thanks all those who came forward to volunteer themselves and their vehicles. • The story of chapel. There are currently twelve households • Royal visit to RDA Bank Farm. supporting the Scheme. At one time, in • Dogs’ sniffing power has medical early February, it looked like the weather benefits. was going to test the new initiative and it • Orienteering on the commons. went to ‘Amber alert’ for a day or so. The subsequent snowfall did not cause any • Laura Moore and Arthur Pope significant disruption. So on this occasion remembered. there were no calls for help, but it is Plus our regular features… comforting to know the Group is ready if Chris Brown explains ‘pimping’ in the the weather does choose to do its worst. Hilltops. Front cover Our Curvaceous Cook serves up an Easter Spring has come in fits and starts this year. treat. By now, blossom should be bursting out in …plus all the news from our Churches, our gardens. School, Clubs, Pubs, Councils and Societies.

Hilltop News 3 THE PARISH COUNCIL amount of training is available and any whilst people living in Chiltern needing a young councillors would be mentored by THE COUNTY COUNCIL buildings-based service can look forward Road repairs existing parish councillors. If you know he County Council to new facilities built in or As I write this in early March we are in the someone who would like to be part of a appears unique in , I have been clear that people grip of several areas of road repairs. The Youth Council, please get in touch with me Tannouncing that with a mild to moderate learning disability Hog Lane to Nut Hazel Cross patching has and I will find out more about it. it will not raise Council should continue to benefit from our been finished and is a great improvement Tax for three years from Outreach and gardening centres. A new Commemorative brick on what was there before. Work on Rays 2011 – 2014. Despite 60-bed care home will also be built on H G Matthews have generously offered to Hill has started, albeit a week late, and this I hope you will have the Endeavour site in Chesham together make a commemorative brick to celebrate work just outside our parish in is noticed an increase with a new skills centre for young people. the Diamond Jubilee and the Parish Council also in progress. Hopefully by the time you in the quality of our Maplecourt, a new 21-bed residential unit will be giving one brick to each schoolchild read this everything will be finished! The roads, where £25 million is being spent on including a care home and supported living (under the age of 12 at the end of the 2012 Parish Council has worked very hard to get re-surfacing at present with another £15 for people with a learning disability, will school year) who is resident in this parish. these repairs put on Bucks County Council’s million promised in 2013 -2015. Last week also open in Chesham in September, giving If your child fits the bill, please get in touch list and we are delighted that something a Task & Finish Group reported back on vulnerable residents first class modern with Liz van Hullen, 758800/elizabeth@ has at last been done. Also on the subject its investigation into work carried out by facilities. vanhullen.org, who will arrange for him or of roads, Thames Water has finished the Transport for . I expressed The County is to celebrate the Diamond her to receive the commemorative brick. latest stretch of water mains upgrade on dismay at the amount of repairs still Jubilee and the Olympics. Once This was a great success when the Council Hawridge Hill and Pound Lane and, while needed to improve our rural road network, Easter is over these events will seem celebrated its 75th Anniversary in 2009 and there were a few outstanding leaks for a whilst work is currently scheduled within imminent and I understand more Olympic we hope it will be popular again. Bricks will while, things should return to normal there the Parish and neighbouring Parishes. I shall tickets will be available in April. At present also be available for purchase by residents, fairly quickly. As for potholes and other continue to work with the Parish Council to many communities, including our own, are with full details to follow in the June issue. minor road problems, I can only repeat get this done. planning their Jubilee parties. The Queen that anyone can and should report such Luton Airport expansion During the past month there have been has glittered on television recently and, as things direct to Transport for Bucks at www. And finally, you may have noticed that several local meetings to discuss progress Country Life says this week, she deserves transportforbucks.net or 0845 230 2882 or Luton Airport is currently staging public on HS2. The Government’s mitigation our praise in return for a lifetime of service [email protected]. exhibitions about its proposed expansion proposals are so minimal that it makes you to Britain. plans. Your Parish Council is watching these wonder whether they are now considering May I wish you a very Happy Easter and Council tax freeze plans carefully, with the help of the London a bored tunnel throughout the AONB. look forward to seeing you at these local You may have heard by now that Chiltern Luton Airport Town & Village Communities Whilst we want the project stopped, this events during the Spring. I also intend to District Council has announced that it will Committee and between us we will make would prevent the damage foreseen to be at Kimble on Easter Saturday. Please freeze council tax for the year 2012/13 and sure that nothing important escapes our our wonderful landscapes and give a lot remember: I am always ready to raise your I am pleased to report that your parish has notice. You can read more about the plans more certainty to the housing market. I am concerns with officers at County Hall. gone one better and actually reduced its at http://www.futureluton.co.uk. awaiting a meeting with Justine Greening precept for 2012/13. Last year the amount Tricia Birchley 01296 621138 shortly and will express the concerns of that the average Band D property paid Susie Bell, Clerk to the Council everyone living close to the track. The towards the Parish Council was £22.92 but 758408 [email protected] Judicial Reviews will play an important in 2012/13 it will fall to £19.64. role in challenging the Government on Youth Council grounds of environment and consultation, Bucks CC wants to find out whether our Your councillors can be reached on: whilst having the effect of delaying the residents are interested in developing a John Allen, Chairman: 758095 process and hopefully the Hybrid Bill in this Youth Council to run alongside and be Nigel Blomfield, 758314 Parliament. The next few months will be guided by the Parish Council. It would aim Chris Brown, 758890 an interesting and important time for the to harness the energy and contributions John Horn, 758250 future of our County. of young people resident in the parish, Philip Matthews, 758205 You may have noticed in the Press allowing everyone to benefit from fresh Francis Sanger, 758767 that work to modernise our day centres ideas and new viewpoints. A limited Liz van Hullen, 758800 has begun. This is a huge programme of change for the County Council and,

4 Hilltop News Hilltop News 5 than ever and the recruitment of Mrs raises money for the Associated Country Rachael Kennedy, by Miss Bramble, for the CHOLESBURY-CUM-ST Women of the World, is ‘A Sporting Award’. Early Years Foundation Stage has proven to LEONARDS W.I. Will there by any gold medals on display? be an inspiration. All are welcome to come and see (and bring fter the New Year Celebration On 8 March 2012 interviews were your awards with you!). Evening in January, enjoyed by held for the permanent post of head May is Resolution Meeting, an evening all, we were taken on board ‘RMS teacher and I am delighted to say that the A when the resolution for the WI AGM (to be Titanic’ at the February meeting. From successful candidate was Miss Bramble. We held at the Royal Albert Hall this year) will the point of view of the passengers, David all send her our warmest congratulations be discussed and voted on. The resolution Richards talked of the building of the ship, on her appointment and our best wishes calls on the Government to increase the numbers on board and the lifeboats for her future role at H and C. Under her investment in the training, employment available, and included slides showing the leadership the school now looks forward to and retention of midwives in and magnificent interior. He explained what a settled future with a continued journey Wales to ensure services are adequately happened to the passengers on the fateful towards excellence. resourced and able to deliver a high night and it was a thought provoking and Miss Bramble offers tours of the school standard of care. Last year, the resolution absorbing account of the voyage which New head teacher Stephanie Bramble on Wednesday mornings for prospective concerned the future of libraries and in ended in tragedy. pupils and their families and also welcomes February of this year, the NFWI and NFWI The March meeting, the History of HAWRIDGE & members of the wider community. If you Wales handed over a petition and postcards Pinewood Studios, promises to be equally would like to come and see our fabulous (just under 80,000 signatories in total) to CHOLESBURY SCHOOL interesting but will have taken place new buildings and dedicated team simply government ministers to mark National by the time that Hilltop News reaches n September 2011, Hawridge and contact the school office on 758368 for an Libraries Week. you. However, with the Olympics fast Cholesbury School were lucky enough appointment. We look forward to seeing Our President, Carol (758435), can give approaching, April’s meeting is absolutely Ito secure the secondment of Miss you soon! your more information about WI activities Stephanie Bramble as acting head teacher. on the mark as Mrs Askew is going to talk Judy Joseph (Vice Chair G.B.) and our meetings are open to all. Miss Bramble came to us as a proven about the Olympic Games, both past and “outstanding teacher” and an “outstanding present. Our monthly competition, which deputy head teacher” from Gerrards Cross C of E School. She immediately impressed NEIGHBOURHOOD with her energy and enthusiasm, her WATCH willingness to listen to concerns from staff, pupils and parents and her courage in Remember that the tackling the many issues presented to her. number for contacting During her time at H and C she has built a is strong teaching team with the support of now 101(and always use Caroline Davey, our deputy head. 999 in an emergency). It has been a joy to see our young New leaflets are available newly qualified teachers grow into their giving advice on Heating and Diesel Oil roles and develop their potential, and our theft. I have collected some from our longer serving staff members welcome a neighbourhood team when they were at new and innovative style of leadership. Lee Common shop recently. In such a short time the school has been transformed, the children are happy and Their main advice to us all is to remain keen to do their best and the entire staff, vigilant, take down vehicle registration teaching and support, are committed to numbers and report anything suspicious on further improvement of standards. Despite the 101 number. a high turnover of staff over the last two Shirley Blomfield 758314 years and the threat of a new Ofsted Framework, the team at H and C is stronger

6 Hilltop News Hilltop News 7 LOCAL HISTORY SPRINGING INTO GROUP ACTION

e start our As we go from commemoration deepest winter Wof the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee with a into spring, there is talk on Windsor Castle. much activity under In late November 1992 way at the Cricket Queen Elizabeth talked about her ‘annus horribilis’. You may Club, preparing for recall she was referring to the event the season ahead. earlier that month when there was a Fire Indoor net practice at Windsor Castle. On Friday 13 April at Preservation Society. The now annual Barn started in early 8.15pm at St Leonards Parish Hall, Richard Dance will take place on 29 September, Day, who is a former book restorer to HM February at the Beacon School and the following last year’s heaving success. It is a the Queen in the Royal Palaces, will talk fixtures for the season ahead have been wonderful evening for the whole Hilltop about this dramatic event. Look out for finalised. community. Other event dates will be the yellow roadside notices and posters on confirmed shortly. notice boards to remind you a meeting is he First Team will again be playing in The annual club cricket tour will take imminent! Division One of the Chiltern League, place in the third week of July, this year led by new captain Michael Hamblin. For further information please contact T visiting the New Forest. Last year’s tour The Second Team will play a full season of Chris Brown on 758890 or email us on to North Devon was rained out, so we are friendly matches, having been unsuccessful [email protected] hoping for better luck this year. There is still in its application to the Mid Bucks League. room for one or two more players to join In another contribution to the Jubilee The Sunday Team has mostly home games, the tour. celebrations, the Local History Group is so expect to see them in action on the As the Clubhouse roof is showing signs organising an exhibition on Monday 4 June Cholesbury Common most weeks. of age - leaking in a few places - a fund from 1.30-4.30pm at Cholesbury Village Hall Junior cricket goes from strength to has been started to renew it. The roof was entitled 60 Royal Years, 1952-2012. strength, ably managed by Colts Manager laid in 1986 as part of the club’s centenary We would be very pleased to hear from Digger Reading and his team of twelve celebrations, so is long overdue for some anyone who has photographs, memories coaches. Teams have been entered in the tender loving care. As this facility belongs that could be written up briefly, or small Bucks Junior League in the Under 10, 11, 12 to the community, we will be looking for items of memorabilia connected with and 13 age groups for the season ahead. whatever help we can get to restore it to Royalty or Royal events during the last 60 Most home matches will take place on prime condition. years of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign. If so we Friday evenings, so what a great way to The club is actively seeking to increase hope you would be prepared to make them end the week by wandering over to the its playing strength for both league and available for the Exhibition. Photographs Common and watching the next generation friendly cricket so, if interested, please pop can be scanned and returned. show their skills. The season starts with down to the club on a Wednesday evening Please contact: Shirley Blomfield (758314) or a registration evening for juniors at the from the beginning of April and join the Paddy Thomas (758460). clubhouse on 19 April. net session. You will be welcomed with Outside of the playing arena, there are open arms. a number of events already scheduled for All Club news, photos and more can be the season. On Monday 4 June there will found on the new club website: be an afternoon of fun and games on the hawridgeandcholesbury.hitscricket.com Common, linked to the Jubilee Celebrations Brian Ralphs, Chairman, Hawridge & being coordinated by the Commons Cholesbury Cricket Club

8 Hilltop News Hilltop News 9 Hawridge & Cholesbury School. Schedules Diana Garner on 758347 or montana@ CHOLESBURY cum are available on www.cholesbury.com or cholesbury.net. ST LEONARDS from Roseann Vince. John and Diana Garner are also opening HORTICULTURAL • Friday 16 November – AGM, Quiz and their own garden at Montana, Shire Lane, Cottage Pie Supper at Cholesbury Village Cholesbury for teas on Sunday 8 July from SOCIETY Hall (7.30-9.30pm). 2-5pm: all proceeds in aid of Iain Rennie e are now in the middle of a very Jobs to do in April/May Hospice at Home. busy time of year for gardeners • Summer flowering bulbs and corms such Happy Gardening, Wwith Spring well upon us. Some as alliums, lilies and gladioli should be Barbara Baddon of my shrubs that were looking healthy planted now. suffered during the sudden cold snap in February following the mild early winter. • Feed roses, soft fruit and container plants In this issue we will take a look at the with general purpose fertiliser. Horticultural Society events planned for the • Tie in climbers such as honeysuckle and 100 Club winners year. clematis. February 2012 Dates for your diary • Remove winter protection from less hardy 1st Prize £25 • Thursday 17 May - After hours visit to plants but watch out for late frosts. Miss C Strong, St Leonards Sunnyside Nursery, Northchurch (6- • Direct sow seeds such as carrots, spinach 7.30pm). Philip Smith has kindly invited and lettuce. Continue with a succession of 2nd Prize £15 us to his nursery which specialises in sowings of beetroot, carrot, peas, broad Mr D Sturridge, Coppice Farm Park growing perennials and he will show beans and salad vegetables during May. 3rd Prize £15 us around. There is also a 10% discount • Sow tender courgettes, cucumbers and on production of a current Horticultural pumpkins in a heated propagator or Mr & Mrs W Thomas, Cholesbury Society membership card. sunny windowsill. These can be planted • Sunday 27 May - Open garden and teas out at the end of May. at Highcroft House, Cholesbury Road • Plant first early, second early and (2-5pm) courtesy of Sarah and Stephen maincrop potatoes. Earth up shoots as Tricks, who have invited us to see their they appear. lovely country garden. All proceeds • Feed borders with a general purpose will be donated to the Chiltern Air fertiliser or well rotted manure. Ambulance. • Tackle weeds and aphids before they get • Saturday 2 June - Diamond Jubilee Plant established. Stall at St Leonards Fete. Any donations of plants and flowers will be gratefully • Prick out seedlings before they get too received for us to sell. We would also like leggy and plant out sweet peas that were to have a red, white and blue display so sown in the autumn. please bring some along early, or phone • Start mowing on dry days. me on 757238. • Stake perennials to support new growth. • Friday 22 June - Members only evening • Deadhead and divide established open garden at Bramleys, Broomstick crowded bulbs in May. Lane (7-8.30pm). We have been kindly • Don’t forget to keep newly planted invited by Simon Moore, in memory of his trees and shrubs well watered until late mother Laura, to view her beautiful established. garden. All donations to the Chiltern Dog Rescue. If you would like to join the Horticultural Society or to book events please contact • Saturday 1 September - Annual Show at

10 Hilltop News Hilltop News 11 by Lindsay Griffin’s delicious home made for their lunch in the bonfire, felling trees and the 400th anniversary (1988) of the first HAWRIDGE AND cake and hot drinks and we thank her for with hand tools and having a sense of sighting of the invading Spanish Armada. CHOLESBURY doing this every other weekend during the achievement at the end of their visit. In 1992, a chain of beacons was lit across season. the then twelve countries of the European COMMONS Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee Market to celebrate the opening of the PRESERVATION The ‘Get Out There’ project Beacons alight on village greens, castle single European market. In 1995, the 50th SOCIETY Groups of trainees from the ‘Get Out There’ battlements, parks, farms, beaches, gardens anniversary of VE Day was remembered project, run by Hammersmith City Council, and mountain tops have been a traditional with a chain of beacons across the UK, Working Parties were brought out to the Commons by way to communicate across wide areas. In the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. the past, they were often used to warn of In 1999, beacons were lit to celebrate the We have had a very good season so far. Anna Guzzo, who runs three-month courses imminent danger from invaders, and more beginning of the new millennium and the Every fortnight from October, between for people who wish to change direction recently to celebrate or commemorate bi-centenary of the Battle of Trafalgar was 10 and 15 people have come along to in life. The courses are designed to give important events. Above all, they are similarly commemorated in 2005. help with the scrub clearance and ride experience in practical conservation work symbolic of a common purpose among the On Monday 4 June, the plan is to light maintenance. We have removed quite a and gardening skills. The trainees are taken people. at least 2,012 beacons across the UK, the few dead elm trees from various parts of to a variety of locations, including Barnes In recent times, beacons have been lit to Commonwealth and other countries across the Common. Generally they die at about Wetland Centre, Wormwood Scrubs, city celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen the world, to celebrate Queen Elizabeth’s 15 years of age (Dutch Elm Disease) and farms and parks around the capital. They Victoria in 1897, Queen Elizabeth’s Silver Diamond Jubilee. The Society’s contribution remain standing until their roots rot. came for four days at the end of February and cleared a wide swathe of scrub from Jubilee in 1977 and her Golden Jubilee to the weekend of celebrations will be to The elms produce suckers very easily, so the edge of the permissive ride that in 2002. Other beacons include (in 1981) light a beacon somewhere between the we always have new ones coming along. links the top and bottom rides and runs Operation Seafire, when beacons were lit cricket pitch and the Full Moon, between They are particularly favoured by the White alongside the road to Wigginton. They also along the coastline to launch the English 10-10.30 pm on 4 June. This has been Letter Hairstreak butterfly and we try to raked decaying bracken from the stumps Tourist Board’s project Maritime England, registered with the Pageantmaster of the leave elms wherever we can. Although in of gorse. We regenerate gorse when it gets Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Beacons. We recent years there have been no sightings leggy and weak by cutting back close to the hope that our beacon will be a memorable of this particular butterfly, there may still ground. finale to a weekend of celebratory events be a colony somewhere on the Commons, Anna is accompanied by a very staged by different village organisations. and we remain hopeful that we can provide enthusiastic helper who, having completed In addition, the HCCPS is considering the right conditions to encourage this his course with the project, stays on as installing a permanent feature on the species. With this in mind, we are forming a volunteer. He has a great love of the Commons to commemorate the Diamond small, sheltered areas on the edge of the countryside and wildlife and enjoys Jubilee. We will be in touch with further woodland, near to dense stands of young showing red kites and buzzards to the details nearer the time. elms. workers. All four days were sunny and A number of stretches of the rides cont.) quite warm and they enjoyed being on the have been improved, either by widening Common at Cholesbury, baking potatoes or by cutting low hanging branches. We are grateful for the help provided by horse-riders and would love to see more of you when we are doing this work. The workforce will have completed their annual distribution of logs to some of the people living adjacent to the Commons. The Committee would like to thank all those who have participated in the work parties this season. It is a tremendous community effort and everyone appreciates the work that has been undertaken. As always, the workers have been sustained

12 Hilltop News Hilltop News 13 Woodland Management Plan susceptible to disease. In particular, As this work is outside the scope of Over the past year or so, Christine Stott where trees need attention at the edge of the HCCPS working parties, it will be has been in consultation with the Forestry roads, there are plans to coppice sections undertaken by contractors employed by Commission to agree on a plan of gentle at intervals over a five to ten year cycle. Christine and on the advice of the Forestry management of the wooded areas on Coppicing is a gentle way of encouraging Commission. Before work begins, Christine the Commons. Recently, she has agreed fresh, new growth while ensuring minimal intends to invite interested villagers to a contract which will involve the Forestry disturbance to wildlife. Undertaking the see the Forestry Commission plans and to Commission advising her each year on work work at yearly intervals will result in re- explain the work which will be undertaken. that needs to be undertaken to bring the growth at different times and therefore We are delighted that all the hard work woodland into better shape for the long- encourage greater diversity of habitats. that has gone into creating the plan has term. Veteran trees will be identified and borne fruit and we look forward with eager On the whole, the Society is able to certain trees that have the potential to anticipation to seeing the results. become veteran in the future will be keep the rides and paths clear, reduce the Membership Subscriptions protected. This could include remedial bracken in the acid grassland areas and The Society relies on revenue from work on diseased limbs and some thinning keep the undergrowth down under the membership subscriptions for much of the around these trees to enable them to magnificent beech trees in Hawridge and expense of looking after the Commons. If develop to their full beauty. elsewhere. The working parties can also you have not already paid your membership Part of the management plan involves Old Photos Restored arrest the expansion of the wooded areas fee you may do so by cash or cheque widening the horse rides to bring in more Professional retouching and restoration of old by removing small trees and saplings from (payable to HCCPS) to Ben and Hayley sunlight so that these habitats are further or damaged photographs including mounting the edges of the woodland. However, in Lewis, 7 Sandpit Hill Cottages, Cholesbury enhanced for butterflies. The intermediate and framing. the past, the advice was that unless the Lane, Cholesbury HP23 6NF (758843):£10 range of smaller plants that fringe the woodland could be properly managed, it per person for 2012. rides are an important source of food for was best to leave it to develop naturally. Ben and Hayley can also provide you 01494 758882 butterflies. Advice will be sought from The trees that remain are mostly reaching with an e-mail form if you wish to pay by email: [email protected] David Dennis on best practices. a stage when they are growing old and Standing Order. They can be contacted by email [email protected]

Orienteering on Hawridge and Cholesbury Commons Following their successful orienteering event in 2010, we are very pleased to welcome back the Thames Valley Orienteering Club, which is holding another event on Hawridge and Cholesbury Commons on Saturday 16 June, from 10- 12pm. Orienteering is suitable for all age groups and abilities, so come along and take part in this outdoor sport. If you want to know more about it, there is an informative article elsewhere in this edition of Hilltop News. Paul Hembury (Chairman), with thanks to Linden and Lindsay

14 Hilltop News Hilltop News 15 collect your electronic timing ‘dibber’, to Mike Shires from Thames Valley record your progress at each control point. Orienteering Club (TVOC) says, “We have Most beginners and families start with a many members from the Chilterns area ‘Yellow’ or ‘Orange’ level course, which and the event at Hawridge and Cholesbury are about 2.0 to 2.5km long and will take Commons will be the latest of the informal around 30-45 minutes. If you would like any Saturday Series of events, geared to help or advice, ask at registration. beginners as an introduction to this exciting Once you have registered, you will be adventure sport. There are many other local given a map showing your course and the clubs too and it’s easy to get to an event object is to navigate your way round the every weekend, if you become addicted! control points on the map, in the correct Orienteering is a popular sport and is order, and registering each one with the unusual as it caters for all ages and abilities. electronic dibber. The easy courses will It can take place in forests, moorland and follow paths and the controls will be easy even urban areas, with the City of London to spot, however if you choose a more Race last year attracting over 1,100 entrants difficult course then your navigation and from 28 countries!” route choice skills between the controls Put 16 June in your diary and look will be tested! Each course is marked on a forward to a new and fun activity for all the special large-scale orienteering map, which family - check out TVOC’s website at www. contains a lot of detail, including every tvoc.org.uk for any last minute changes path, knoll, and vegetation boundary on or e-mail the organiser of this event, Mike the commons. When you have finished your Shires, at [email protected] for Orienteering on Hawridge course, report back to the registration area further details. and your results will be downloaded from your dibber, so you have an instant printout and Cholesbury Commons of your time between each control.

Explore the outdoors, keep fit and try walk around a course, to those looking for your hand at something new and exciting a more competitive jog or run. It is often a case of the tortoise versus the hare, as for all the family this summer. Following good navigation around the course is just a popular orienteering event held in as important as speed. 2010, Thames Valley Orienteering Club is The event will be based at Hawridge and holding another event on Hawridge and Cholesbury School, where registration, car parking and toilets will be located. Just turn Cholesbury Commons on 16 June 2012. up on the day between 10am and 12pm - his event is open to everybody and is you don’t need any special equipment and an ideal family-friendly introduction you can start your course when it suits you. Tto this challenging and exciting Outdoor clothes are perfect, with trainers outdoor sport. Ideally suited to beginners, and T-shirt being ideal if the weather is nice the aim is to navigate in sequence between or you fancy a jog. Walking shoes are fine a set of control points and decide the too, if you are planning on walking around a best route to complete the course in the course, to fine-tune your navigation skills. A quickest time. Anyone can take part as compass could be useful if you are planning there are several courses suitable for a on tackling a more challenging course. wide range of abilities, from families with At the event, go to registration to pay young children or the elderly looking to for your map (£2 adults, £1 juniors) and

16 Hilltop News Hilltop News 17 Arthur finished his career as a Director at CompAir Reavell. He was a consultant and TEA PARTIES travelled throughout Europe. Many who worked under AWP have commented that ave you thought of joining a he has helped them in their work and in friendly and lively group who their careers. meet in St Leonards Church H Arthur had three children with his first Room on the fourth Wednesday of wife Peggy: David, Hilary and Caroline. each month? This meeting is open to Sadly Hilary died of leukaemia in early everyone in the Hilltop Villages – and we childhood. Peggy taught French and Arthur welcome in particular those of you who enjoyed many holidays exploring various don’t get out and about as much as you parts of France and developed a love of used to. Do come and see for yourself! French wine. Tragically cancer took the life We serve the most delicious scones and of Peggy in 1976. cakes, pour a wonderful cup of tea and, He married Jean and they moved to above all, are there to share your joys, Heath End. He shared Jean’s fondness for fears and news. You are guaranteed to the arts and they shared a passionate love go home feeling better than when you for their garden at Boundary Cottage. came! We meet again at 3pm on 25 April Through this marriage Arthur gained two and 23 May. ARTHUR WILLIAM stepdaughters, Rosamunde and Averil. If you would like a lift, please contact POPE Arthur was a quiet man but full of either Anne Lake (01296 620169) or energy and he would never fail to take Anne Butterworth (758700), who are 18 September 1919 – 1 January 2012 his daily constitutional around and about happy to arrange this. AWP was the only son of two school Heath End to keep his heart rate up - not to admire the flowers or the view! But he teachers, grew up in Wembley and would greet Les Gomm, now also passed attended Harrow County High School, away, already at work in his ‘mountain where he completed his Higher School garden’, as AWP rounded the curve down Certificate at the age of 17. At 19 he to Hawridge Vale. Thereafter, he would devote his time to his own garden. Arthur obtained his 1st class Mathematics Degree and Jean found great happiness living here from Queen Mary College, London in 1939. in the Hilltops for 32 years, and have much enjoyed the friendship and help from all n his working life, Arthur was definitely the ‘Heath Enders’ they have known here a thinker and, as the Second World War during that time. was looming, he joined the group of six I Arthur had a long life which he lived to young engineering designers who became the full as one of nature’s true gentlemen ‘Frank Whittle’s Young Men’ at his Power – kindly, considerate and congenial – and Jets Company. Arthur helped develop the all who had the pleasure and privilege of first British jet aircraft engine. He was justly knowing him will remember him with great proud to be a ‘Reactionary’, the name warmth and affection. And now, may he given to the engineers who were involved rest at peace. with Frank Whittle during the war. The The funeral on 23 January, conducted idea of ‘The Reactionaries’ was to unite by Rev David Burgess, was a warm and these engineers with Frank Whittle’s jet peaceful service where David Pope gave a development and each other, in their later soliloquy and Arthur’s eldest and youngest lives and careers. Sadly there are very few grandchildren read poems by Wordsworth left now. and Mary Frye.

18 Hilltop News Hilltop News 19 Buckland Common Baptist Chapel

Neil Rees from Chesham is a faith heritage feature writer and is researching churches and chapels in the Hilltop Villages. Here he provides a background to the origin and history of Buckland Common Chapel… he Buckland Common Strict Baptist church Twas started by Mr Sunday School at the chapel in 1967 (photo courtesy of Jim Fulks) James Clark of . He had a Christian conversion An early photo of Buckland Common chapel Fulks, Brown, Crawley and Butcher. There The graveyard at the back was separated experience in 1858, was baptised and joined were three plaques in the chapel with one to off and is still used, accessible by a small was formally started in November 1860. It Akeman Street Baptist Church in Tring. Absalom Turner behind the pulpit and two pathway at the side of the house. It is now was a Strict and Particular Baptist church, Then he became a preacher to local villages. others on the side walls to Henry Brown and in the care of the Grace Baptist Association a branch of the Akeman Street Baptist One day James and a friend felt a desire Mr Crawley. in London. Church. Later, the land at the rear was used to go to Buckland Common. They knocked During the war the army used the field My thanks to David Woodruff of the Strict as a burial ground. at the door of a cottage where they found opposite, called No Man’s Land, to park Baptist Historical Society in Dunstable, and The Baptist and Anglican chapels a sick woman. She hailed them as God’s its lorries and Bren-gun carriers and often to the Fulks family for help in my research were about 100 yards apart, with the messenger sent to answer her prayer. When soldiers slept overnight in the chapel. into Buckland Common chapel. If anyone Baptist graveyard backing onto the side James visited again a few weeks later he There was a weekly Sunday School at has any more information, memories or of the Anglican chapel. The latter was found a group of people who urged him to 2:45pm, which also had a popular annual photos please contact me on 01494 776457 decommissioned and pulled down in 1939. conduct a service. This led to a room being trip to the seaside. The chapel had weekly or [email protected] James Clark was made the Baptist’s first offered for services. When Mr Clark went evening services run by local preachers, pastor, aged just 19 years old. Every Sunday Neil Rees the next time the room was full and from many of whom would walk up from he walked from Tring to take three services. then on he held weekly services. Chesham. His farewell service at Buckland Common In 1859 they tried to buy a plot of land In 1977 there was an outdoor united was on Tuesday 7 January 1862, after which off Cherry Tree Lane to build a chapel, but service on Buckland Common for all the he entered full-time ministry at other the Vicar of St Leonards bought it and he churches of Cholesbury-cum-St Leonard’s Baptist churches. He died in 1893. built a wooden Anglican chapel on the parish, to celebrate the Queen’s Silver In 1909 Buckland Common Baptist church land instead. So the Baptists bought a plot Jubilee. had just ten members, but had 70 children of land nearby in Parrotts Lane and built In 1984 the chapel was closed, sold and in the Sunday School, taught by six teachers. a fine Brick and flint chapel to seat 150 converted to a private dwelling called ‘The It also had five local preachers. The church people. The chapel had its first service in Chapel House’. A porch and rear extension Secretary was Mr Absalom Turner. Prominent August 1860 and the church congregation was added in 2002. local families at the chapel included Turner,

20 Hilltop News Hilltop News 21 cottage ‘Bramleys’, where Laura remained for the rest of her life. Bramleys came with a large and empty garden – the sellers having stripped it of plants. George saw to the vegetables, but it was Laura who created the wonderful haven many of us have delighted in over the years, Even in her nineties Laura would trundle with her old pram with tools aboard carefully tending the borders, which gave so much pleasure. And yet no one ever saw her other than immaculately groomed. Until well into her last decade she continued to drive her Golf – often in second gear when her hands became stiff! Daughter Sarah lived next door and Laura did much to help with the upbringing LAURA MOORE of her four grandchildren. Simon never 11 December 1916 – 1 January 2012 remembered mum without at least one dog – almost inevitably a stray needing loving On New Year’s Day, Laura Moore passed care. In the village Laura was a stalwart away aged 95. She had long been one member of the ladies group who started of the village characters: full of fun and the Sunday cream teas at Cholesbury energy. Village Hall and always contributed homemade cakes and poured countless aura was born in Bushey in 1916, cups of tea. At various times she was an one of five children. She lived there active member of the WI. spending much of her young life L The crowning success in her often caring for sick parents. In 1935 she met prolonged battle with officialdom was George at a dance. He was not dancing, that ‘The track’, a name she hated, became but the band leader playing the clarinet. forever ‘Broomstick Lane’. George owned a Bentley sports car, in which Laura spent many a happy hour accompanying him to dances throughout the area. They married in 1940, after which George was called up and spent three years fighting in the Burmese jungle. It was during this period that Laura was bombed out and went to live in Watford. On his return, George went back to work at Barclays Bank in Chorleywood and later as manager in Chesham. The couple had two children, Sarah and Simon. Laura became heavily involved in the Conservative Association and at one time was chair. They moved to Buckland Common in 1976, falling in love with their delightful

22 Hilltop News Hilltop News 23 Surprise!

by the Reverend God continues to surprise us day by day David Burgess – to quote the title of a book by Gerard Hughes, he is a “God of Surprises”. But he The element of is not a trickster. His surprises can, as with surprise is a key the Resurrection, be shockingly unexpected, but they will always be for our good. part of storytelling. As we look forward each Christmas So many stories to Christ’s birth knowing it has already in different forms happened, so we look forward to Easter, focusing on the historical events, but being hang on twists in plot or unexpected certain also of God’s continuing, surprising revelations. presence with us through the life, death, here is a contradiction about the and Resurrection of the Lord Jesus. central part of the Easter story and Tit happens in two ways. We engage in the surprise of the Resurrection because of the freshness of the story each time we read it, but on the other hand we’re not surprised because it’s such a central and familiar part of our faith. Similarly, Jesus’ followers shouldn’t have been surprised because the Resurrection was promised in scripture and by Jesus himself. Yet their reaction was one of amazement and, in some, disbelief. We can’t blame them. Death is so final and so certain for us all that the thought of someone conquering and overcoming it is an idea that’s impossible to grasp. However, God didn’t bring about the Resurrection to toy with people’s emotions or to show them that there was a magic cure to everything. The rising of Jesus from the dead is a sign, a foretaste, of the new life that he offers to each of us. Christians are ‘Easter people’. We live in the light of the events of that first Easter Sunday morning. We’ve been transformed – surprised, if you like – by God’s wonderful love for us, and that we know that because of the first Resurrection, we are promised new life with God for ever.

24 Hilltop News Hilltop News 25

CHURCH SERVICES - April to May 2012 St John the Baptist St Leonard’s St Laurence St Mary’s DATE DAY NOTES ST LEONARDS CHOLESBURY HAWRIDGE 8.00 am Holy Communion Parish 10.00 am Mattins Communion Mid-week 1 Apr Palm Sunday 11.00 am 9.30 am Holy Communion 9.30 am Family Service with Sunday 4.00 pm Family Service Holy Communion School & Tea 10.00am at The Lee

on First Wednesday Wed Thursday Parish Tuesday Monday Holy Week Compline Compline Compline 7.30pm 7.30 pm Communion 7.30 pm 7.30 pm Holy Communion, Good Friday Midday Devotional Hour 10.30 am Walk of Wirness Midday Devotional Hour 10.30 am Walk of Witness Matins & Evensong Book of Parish 9.00 am Holy Communion Parish 9.30 am Holy Communion Common Prayer 8 Apr Easter Day 10.00 am 9.30 am Communion 11.15 am Family Service Communion 5.00 pm Easter Praise

Parish/Family Shared Communion & 15 Apr Easter 1 10.00 am All Age Worship 11.00 am Communion Morning Services at Cholesbury Common Worship 9.00 am Quiet 22 Apr Easter 2 10.00 pm Holy Communion Breakfast Service 9.00 am 6.00 pm Evensong Communion

Baptism 10.00 am 29 Apr Easter 3 Celebration

Service

8.00 am Holy Communion Parish

10.00 am Mattins Communion 6 May Easter 4 11.00 am 9.30 am Holy Communion 9.30 am Family Service Family Service with Sunday 4.00 pm & Tea School

Rogation Holy Communion Parish 13 May 10.00 am 6.00 pm 10.45 am Mattins 9.30 am Holy Communion Sunday Communion

Thursday Holy Communion Parish 17 May 10.00 am 7.30 pm Ascension Day Communion Sunday after Shared 20 Apr 10.00 am All Age Worship 11.00 am Ascension Communion Parish 27 May Pentecost 10.00 am 9.00 am Breakfast Service 9.00 am Quiet Service 6.00 pm Evensong Communion

The Revd. David Burgess 01494 837315 The Vicarage, The Lee, , Bucks, HP23 9LZ St Leonards [email protected] Gill Fleckney 01494 758895 The Revd. John Hull 01296 624487 [email protected] Parish Secretary Peggy Sear 01442 863589 Hawridge [email protected] Joan Walton 01494 758332 The Lee Elizabeth Tomlin 01494 758214 Janet Whittow 01296 624568 [email protected] Cholesbury Judy Hart 01494 837328 John Farmer 01494 758715 [email protected] [email protected] 26 Hilltop News Hilltop News 27 welcome to join us on this most important Sandy and David were the Quizmasters day of the year. asking questions from a wide range of Prayer Chain - This is in no way limited subjects, surprising everyone with a ‘most to St Leonards. Anyone can contact Gill frequent answer’ round to finish. Thank ST LEONARDS Fleckney (758895) or Anne Butterworth you Sandy and David for keeping the Burial (758700) to request that a family member evening on time despite marking ten 6 February 2012 Ida Winifred Hourigan or friend be prayed for. A request is answer sheets for each round. Our thanks immediately sent out to those on the also to Brigid, Rosemary, Liz, Alice and 21 February 2012 Gillian Mary Sturges Prayer Chain – in total confidence. The Joan who cooked cottage pie and crumble strength of prayer is huge: you might for 85 people. A guest with special dietary like to think about it. We are currently needs told us she had enjoyed the best ever praying for a young man, a victim of an coeliac cottage pie! The winners were Sue unprovoked mugging, who has been left and Guy with their friends from outside the permanently deaf, without balance and his villages. The net income from the evening ST LEONARDS start to Sunday and everyone who comes life temporarily on hold - a great sportsman was £713. Thank you all. really enjoys it. Is it the informality? Is it the who needs our prayers. It can prove to be We are most grateful to Stewart e’ve done it! Our walls sincerity? Come and find out for yourself. of great comfort to the families concerned. Pearce for replacing the fence behind the are repaired: The next service is 22 April followed by 27 Please don’t hesitate to contact us however churchyard – even though no animals had Wthe painting May. small or great your need. strayed over the boundary from his land. finished and we Sunday School – There is something Transport to Church? Would you like The work involved clearing hedges and shine once more! very special about teaching of the Bible a lift to and from Church? We realise that Holy Pond is now easy to see. A curious Our sincere Stories to children from ages three to eight. there are a number of people who might phenomenon is also visible. A visitor thanks again to the many It gives them a grounding from which like to come to our Service on Sundays but noted swirling patterns on the surface people who contributed to this great task. they cannot be parted and a simple and who have no transport. Please do let Gill of the water that must be due to water It has been a long journey but one well sincere understanding of the Christian Fleckney know (758895) and we will do our flowing into the pond from small springs. worth making and we feel certain that faith. St Leonards Sunday School, run by best to help you. Could these patterns have intrigued past future generations will benefit from the Barbara Baddon, Jo Strevens and Claudia Annual Parochial Church Meeting - generations and led to the name Holy painstaking work involved. d’Allessandro provides just that. If you Wednesday 25 April in the Church Room at Pond? The story of Holy Pond is that it We intend to re-dedicate the church on would like your children to be a part of 7.30pm. This is your opportunity to come never runs dry and we can monitor this Sunday 6 May. We are as yet uncertain who this important start to their lives (they may and see what we are doing and to make more easily now, and we must surely will be preaching at this important service, make their own choices thereafter) do suggestions for the future of your church. respect the original diggers for finding the but we hope as many of you as possible will contact Barbara on 757238 or Jo on 758496. springs. we have also been told that babies join us and stay for a glass of wine after the Easter - On Good Friday, children are CHOLESBURY were baptised in Holy Pond but we suspect service. invited to come to church at 10am to make that water was used from the pond as the On the same day we are celebrating the traditional Easter garden as they listen he quiz on nearest supply but taken to the church font. the centenary of the village and church to the Easter story and enjoy an Easter egg 18 February Early in March, the floors in the church becoming a ecclesiastical hunt before going home. They will join us Twas a great were washed thoroughly by the ladies parish in its own right. This actually at the first station of the Cross. success with under Dorrit’s leadership who clean the occurred exactly 101 years ago on May 6 The adults will gather in the churchyard eighty contestants church regularly and reliably. The church 1911. A Celebration indeed! before setting off on the Walk of Witness enjoying a lively is cleaned, dusted and tidied, the brass is The Breakfast Service is growing and in at 10.30am. We join with Cholesbury and evening. The event polished and the gravel in the porch swept February we had 69 people for breakfast. Hawridge on the Common and there will was oversubscribed so we had to desert away. It is a lovely welcome for worshippers Loaves and fishes come to mind, but we be a Devotional Hour at Cholesbury Church, Cholesbury Village Hall and move to St and visitors. Thank you to Dorrit’s team. had anticipated a few extras and no-one led by Peggy Sear, between about l2 and Leonards. Several people came from outside Easter - Palm Sunday on 1st April with a left hungry. There were a few steaming 1pm. the Villages, including last year’s winners BCP Holy Communion. Tuesday we have a mugs of coffee carried into the church – We celebrate Easter Day with Holy from the U3A and a team from the Chiltern service of Compline at 7.30pm. perfect! It doesn’t matter what age you Communion at 9am and our Easter Family Society. Our apologies to those village Good Friday - the two Walks of Witness are, you are most welcome – it’s a great Service at 11.15am.You are all most families who had wanted to attend. will meet at Cholesbury Village Hall. You

28 Hilltop News Hilltop News 29 are welcome to join a Walk from either St through the village for readings and hymns. that was planned for February but was Leonards or Hawridge as we remember the Please come and join us. cancelled due to the snow. events of the first Good Friday. Good Friday Easter Sunday - Holy Communion The next walk is on 1st May and will be Service of meditation is at 12 noon. at 9.30am, Easter Praise at 5pm. All are at Ashridge starting at the car park about Easter Day we have a Parish Communion welcome to this very joyous service. If any half way on the drive to the monument. with hymns at 9.30am. children or adults would like to contribute Anybody is welcome to join us on the We are holding a Cream Tea on Sunday to the service by playing an instrument, walks which are normally about three miles 20 May in Cholesbury Village Hall at 2pm. singing or reading, please let Joan (758332) at a fairly steady pace. It is hoped that the The big attraction will be the homemade or Elizabeth (758214) know. bluebells will be out. cakes and the day will include a Plant Stall, Quiz Night - 28 April at Hawridge and Coffee or tea and biscuits are served Bric a Brac and Tombola. 2012 will be a busy Cholesbury School, 7pm for a 7.30pm start: after the walks and a donation of 50p year so please mark this traditional event in tables of six. If you would like to come but for church funds is appreciated. Contact your diaries. are unable to make up a team of six, let us Margaret or Joan (758332). Cholesbury church, through Liz Green, know and we will find people to join you. is arranging a visit to the House of Lords The cost is £10 to include a fish and chip on 10 October. There will be a guided tour supper with a vegetarian option. Please of both Houses of Parliament and we can bring your own drink and glasses. Tickets watch Questions in the House of Lords. In from Joan (758332) or Elizabeth (758214). t is with sadness that we report the addition, Liz has arranged Lunch served in Cream Tea - Sunday 6 May 1pm at recent deaths of Gill Sturges, from St one of the House of Lords’ dining rooms. Cholesbury Village Hall. Light refreshments ILeonards, and Michael Savage, who During the visit, we will be able to join available from 1pm, Bric-a-brac stall, Cake lived at Braziers End. Full tributes to parliamentarians in a Holy Communion stall, Tombola and Raffle. Donations for their lives will appear in the next edition service in the Crypt Chapel. There will be any of the stalls gratefully received. If you of Hilltop News. a coach from Cholesbury into Westminster would like to donate or help on the day returning at about 5.30pm. More details please contact Joan or Elizabeth. from Liz on 758035 or lizzyb@bellosborne. Special Jubilee Service – 3 June at com. 9.30am. We welcome everybody to this special Family Jubilee Celebration Service. HAWRIDGE Iain Ledingham Annual Concert - 15 June at 7pm at the School. This is an excellent aster – Palm Sunday - 1st April at concert with students from the Royal 9.30am. We Academy of Music. Refreshments are served Ewelcome you all after the concert. For further details please to our Family Service contact Joan or Elizabeth. with the distribution Advance notice for the Annual Hawridge of Palm Crosses. This is & Cholesbury Churches’ Fete – August Bank a service for everyone Holiday 27 August. We are now starting and usually lasts about to make arrangements for the Fete and 40 minutes. will be holding a meeting on 9 May to Monday 2 April discuss the venue and make plans. If you at 7.30pm - Service of Evening Prayer are able to help or would like to take part (Compline) at Hawridge. in the forward planning please contact Services at other churches are on the churchwardens: John Farmer (758715), Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Joan Walton (758332) or Elizabeth Tomlin Good Friday - Walk of Witness starting (758214). at Hawridge Church or St Leonards Hawridge Church Walking Group - We at 10.30am and meeting together at walk on 3 April and will start at Wigginton Cholesbury. We stop at various points Playing Fields at 10am. This will be the walk

30 Hilltop News Hilltop News 31 the puppy for more than 3-4 hours. If you have your own animals or children this does Medical Detection Dogs not preclude you. Puppy socialisers receive regular support from one of the charity trainers and all veterinary costs, insurance, food and equipment is provided by the Many of you will have seen the sniffing charity. In return there are the general power of dogs being used at airports and rewards and enjoyment of looking after a special dog. by the police to sniff out meat, fruit and drugs. Now those powerful noses are being Volunteers The charity is still very small, receives no used to help people with life threatening NHS funding and relies on the support conditions by the charity Medical Detection of its volunteers. If you can volunteer to Dogs, based at Great Horwood in help with this valuable work, fundraising Buckinghamshire. old. It is looking for people with time and or events please contact the Volunteer commitment to provide the puppy with Coordinator Pam Jones on pam.jones@ Medical Alert basic training, exercise and socialisation. medicaldetectiondogs.org.uk. Or phone The charity trains Medical Alert dogs to The puppies need to visit different 01296 655888. detect minute changes in body odour. environments and become familiar with A talk about the charity and These include Blood Sugar Detection dogs children, animals and various forms of demonstration on scent detection will be for adults and children coping with severe travel. They also need to be taken to puppy held at Cholesbury Village Hall on Tuesday Type 1 diabetes, who receive no warning training classes. You would need to be at 15 May at 7.30pm. For tickets please contact of dangerously low blood sugar. The only home for most of the day and not leave Linda Stacey on 758510. other sure prevention is to take regular blood tests, perhaps every hour (day and night) to check the sugar level. The dog pain seizures, Addison`s Disease and life- lives with the person and becomes their threatening allergies. monitoring system, warning them when the blood sugar is dropping dangerously Cancer and Bio-detection low. These dogs can also detect and The charity also trains Cancer Detection warn of high blood sugar, which, if dogs, following a study published in the left uncontrolled, causes chronic and British Medical Journal in 2004 which debilitating health problems. Over 20 dogs showed that dogs can be trained to identify are now operating in the UK and others are the scent of bladder cancer within urine being trained. samples. This unknown finding indicated The charity also trains dogs for other the potential for a new method of debilitating conditions such as severe diagnosing and screening for cancer which would be simple, quick and non-invasive. It hopes to identify the volatiles that the dogs are sniffing in co-operation with scientists to help in the development of an ‘electronic nose’ and the charity is planning a further study looking at prostate cancer. Puppy socialisers needed The charity needs caring homes in our area to look after and socialise their puppies and young adult dogs up to around 16 months

32 Hilltop News Hilltop News 33 HILLTOP NEWS nature conserve other species which depend more foxes which may fail to survive to the next exclusively on these landscapes. year. Meanwhile, a wet summer and mild Go back 75 years and above the winter provides the conditions for heavier heather and gorse by day might be seen foxes to make it through to the following Pimping reaches the hen harriers and at night might be heard year with an advantage over other males nightjars and nightingales. Probably with which they ferociously compete for Hilltop Villages! neither seen nor heard but still there territories. amongst the thickets would have been That’s all this time. Comments and the odd woodcock. Last seen in 1973 and questions welcome chrisbrown@rayshill. Needed something along the lines of a Hacid Eths” of which I was reminded the now extinct in the UK, was the red-backed com (758890). tabloid heading to get your attention this other day when coming across a report by shrike. the Chilterns Conservation Board about Many invertebrates occupy this habitat. time! Not of course what it sounds like. how rare acid heathland habitats are in Some are partly and some exclusively However, the more frequent occurrence of England and that they remain under threat dependent on it, such as the lesser yellow red kites over us these days is starting to in this part of the Chilterns. underwing, which may not have been seen create some competition for territories. As We are lucky enough to have such an since 1990. Other moths such as the metallic example on Hawridge and Cholesbury coleophora feed on a wide variety of herbs numbers increase each year the younger Commons. With grateful acknowledgement but rely on the rushes to make neat little birds need to move further and further of the Heritage Study I note the key cases in which the larvae pupate. The trickle afield to find suitable roosts. indicator species for such habitats, in this down effect of sensible conservation is the area at least, are: heather, pill sedge and real value and bonus rewarding hard work. imping is the characteristic behaviour rushes. In times not so long past, commons Whether or not the Commons are your of some raptors whereby the two such as ours would have been grazed usual stalking grounds, it is worth taking a Pbirds do acrobatic tricks in mid air, by domesticated animals: cattle and in closer look next time you go for a stride or often interlocking their talons and spinning particular sheep. Until even more recent two. around or passing on food scraps or roost times, periodic burning by Commoners also Are foxes bigger these days? This was materials. The gymnastics are normally managed the habitat in a less sustainable the gist of the news report on the BBC accompanied by a cacophony of “wee- way. Gorse, which is another indicator website the other day. Turns out it related ooh” sounds. March and April are the species, is interesting in that it would have to a 38lb male fox killed for attacking sheep two months when this nest refurbishment been carefully managed by Commoners in Aberdeenshire. Typical male rural foxes activity is at its height. Apparently later to avoid it becoming a weed on the might weigh up to a max 16lbs whilst those inspections of nest reveal all sorts of heathland. living in the smart sophisticated urban areas plundered material including flags, toys and One of its older and colloquial names is come in at a svelte 13lbs. But then there are clothes including gloves and underpants! furze, which was harvested by furze-cutters also plenty of bijoux animals around too: in Aside from my father and David and used for making fires for baking bread. all habitats at 9lbs it seems. Attenborough, who coincidentally bought I recall Winnie the Pooh also had a tangle The helping hand of man leaving out all his blue shirts and safari slacks from with gorse when looking for honey, but scraps, or hobby farmers laying on ready- him, my other inspiration for an interest in this was not in Cholesbury or Hawridge! made chicken dinners in the foxes’ territory natural history was a much more obscure However, in the absence of these ruminants has an effect. But the main reason for the one. I can first recall seeing David Bellamy (I’m excluding the Commoners from the weight difference is the abundance or appearing on a programme in 1972 definition here) heather, in particular, is otherwise of earthworms from year to year called Bellamy on Botany. For those who quickly suffocated out by bracken, which in July when the young are out foraging. A remember him, his approach involved much flourishes when not beaten out by animal wet summer brings out a plentiful supply gesticulation, usually whilst bouncing up activity. Mechanical crushing of the bracken of the fox’s favourite meal, which come to and down on peat bogs and much, largely fronds achieves this end today. The benefit the surface in these conditions. By October unintelligible, grunting and guffawing, of protecting the heather and other foxes have put on their maximum weight interspaced with gems in natural history. heathland plants spreads far wider than just for the season. So a dry summer followed It was his expression “the importance of protecting a desirable habitat. It also helps by a harsh winter produces slightly smaller

34 Hilltop News Hilltop News 35 36 Hilltop News Hilltop News 37 as Peppa on Radio One’s Chris Moyles Breakfast Show. Rising star sisters In their spare time both girls enjoy looking after their animals at their home in Buckland Common, with Harley also being a keen rugby player, kickboxer and drummer! Is there no end to the stars of stage Gill says both girls showed a talent for and television who reside in the Hilltop entertaining at an early age. “They have both been natural performers with lots Villages? Two talented young siblings, of confidence since they were tiny. I’m so Harley Bird and Olivia Riley from Buckland Olivia steals the show in ‘Rev’ proud of how well they’ve done and as Common are the latest of our celebrities. long as they keep enjoying what they do her first TV role she performed opposite I’m more than happy to support them in en year old Harley, who uses the established comedy actors Tom Hollander achieving their acting ambitions.” stage name Bird as it was her and Olivia Coleman as Adam’s goddaughter, While Olivia hopes to follow in her big nickname as a baby, recently made T who proves to be a bit of a handful when sister’s footsteps, Harley has aspirations to history by becoming the youngest person she comes to stay. Olivia showed her be a comedienne. She says, “My favourite ever to receive a BAFTA Award for her natural acting talent in her role as Enid, actress is Catherine Tate, she’s so funny and performance as the voice of the much- stealing the show with some mischievous I’d love to meet her. I’d like to make people loved cartoon character Peppa Pig. antics whilst wearing a pair of fluffy devil laugh as my job when I grow up, like she Despite being up against stiff horns. does.” competition from well known faces such The girls have been getting used to These talented sisters are definitely ones as Daniel Roche of ‘Outnumbered’ fame being in the spotlight after their recent to watch, after already making appearances for his role in ‘Just William’, Harley took successes, appearing together in an on award-winning TV shows and achieving home the BAFTA trophy for the Performer interview on BBC Oxford News, and Harley industry recognition at such a young age. category at the Children’s Awards for her presenting a feature on CBBC’s Newsround We look forward to seeing, and hearing, a work as a voice artist. Proud mum, Gill Harley clutches her BAFTA as well as being interviewed in character lot more of Harley and Olivia… Riley, who runs Long Crendon based crane as to record sounds for use in the Peppa hire company GGR Group, says, “It was Pig toys and Peppa Pig World theme park a lovely surprise to see her win, we were at Paultons Park in Hampshire. Harley says, thrilled that she was even nominated but “I spent an afternoon in a toy shop with didn’t expect her to take home a BAFTA. my family where there was a whole aisle She did a great job of improvising her of Peppa toys. We were pressing all the acceptance speech as we hadn’t even buttons to hear my voice - it’s a bit strange practised one!” to have your voice come out of a cuddly Harley has been the voice of Peppa toy, but very exciting!” for the last three and a half years and Harley and her little sister Olivia are has appeared in over 100 episodes of pupils at Pipers Corner School in Great the animated series, which is shown Kingshill, and are both represented by on Channel Five and Nick Jr in the UK children’s talent agency Alphabet Kidz. and in over 180 countries worldwide. After only being signed to the agency Harley’s famous voice is now well known for one month, Harley landed the role of internationally as the series is becoming Peppa at age six thanks to her confident more and more popular in the US where, and bubbly personality. instead of Peppa having an American Harley’s sister, six-year-old Olivia, took accent, it is still Harley’s voice you can hear. her first turn in front of the camera recently Harley goes into a London studio once as she starred in an episode of the BBC2 a month to record new episodes, as well comedy ‘Rev’, aired last November. In

38 Hilltop News Hilltop News 39 40 Hilltop News Hilltop News 41 The Debbie Curtis Radio Big Band will year, there have been no serious offers at perform in a marquee with a cover charge anywhere near the minimum sale price they Spring news of Hilltop Pubs for entry and food available as an option. would accept. Meantime, Christine and Pat This is certain to be a sell out, as this retro Greco are in residence having spruced up 40’s and 50’s jazz and swing band has a the living quarters. Their daughter, Mina, national following. works closely with Christine each day to Last year, a Select Committee within the Kerry and Marc are coming up to the manage the business and serve customers. Business Innovation and Skills Department fourth year of their owning The Rose and Although, like the Black Horse Inn, Crown, and they have settled into the pace Punch representatives have assured them called for “statutory intervention” on of business nicely. As ever, good ales and they would have 12 weeks notice to vacate, the pub companies’ drinks purchasing real perry and ciders are always on tap. there is no written contract to that effect. tie to help the struggling pub sector. For Coming up will be their annual Easter egg Nevertheless, they have plans. A dinner on the second time in 2011, the government hunt for children and all day opening on St George’s Day (23rd April) will be held Easter Monday. at the request of regulars, and an Easter said it would take no action “in setting On Monday 23 April, The Full Moon will egg hunt and bonnet-judging contest will the terms of commercial, contractual again host their St George’s Day ceremony be held. For the Queen’s Jubilee weekend, relationships” between pub companies and which is regularly sold out in advance. there will be a beer festival running from The Rev.David Burgess will open the their tenants after it found no evidence 1st to 3rd June with a hog roast booked for proceedings promptly at 11.30am. There the Sunday. of competition problems or the drinks tie will be songs, recitals and, of course, a Since the owners of The Bull, Fortitude “having an adverse impact on consumers”. traditional English lunch. Investments, were granted conditional Adding to the pain is an average 5% rise been assured that they will have three to The curry nights every Thursday are planning consent for their revised plans in six months notice to vacate if the property continuing. Reflecting ongoing demand, September 2011, there has been no obvious in beer prices in January to be followed by is sold, this is an assurance rather than a Annie and Peter are making it possible to sign of progress in bringing their promised a further 2% rise in duty this spring. Pub legally binding contract. enjoy some of their home cooked food redevelopment to fruition. According to closures continue to run at a rate of 50 a During December, the pub closed for offerings off the premises beyond what information posted on the Bellingdon week. two weeks to completely modernize the started as a limited seasonal offering at website, Fortitude has been soliciting kitchen with new floors, equipment and Christmas. Now, the “take away” includes suggestions from villagers as how best to ince the future ownership of some walls covered with PVC and stainless steel home smoked (hickory), honey or just use the 13 acres of land adjoining the site of the pubs that are reported on in to adhere to the most stringent health plain hams and various Full Moon recipe now currently “used for horses”. Hilltop News remains uncertain, some S standards. An up-to-date central heating cheesecakes. Current menus can be seen Bill Ingram of the facts stated in this report could have system was also installed. The food service on their web site at www.thefullmoonpub. been overtaken by new events by the time is being well supported – especially at lunch co.uk. this reaches you in early April. Following times. Since Cholesbury Common opposite The the split up of the old Punch group last Despite their uncertain tenure, Sandra Full Moon will be the scene of an official autumn, Punch Taverns was left with a and Peter have gone in with enthusiasm beacon for the Queen’s Jubilee on 4 June, rump of 5,000 leased pubs and the bulk and a drive to provide excellent ales in the pub will be a community focal point of the former group’s debt. To retire that good cask condition. Experience has shown that day with live music, a hog roast and debt, most of the estate is being liquidated. that turnover rates can sustain four real perhaps a barbeque. Their marquee will be The Black Horse Inn and The White Lion are ales on the go at any time. They have up all summer for this and private events. both affected and are for sale as freehold been awarded Joint Runner-up Pub of the The White Lion has finally been relieved properties. Hence, they are being rented Year 2012 by the Mid Chilterns Branch of of the curse of mismanagement by Vale on short-term tenancies to their current CAMRA. This coming after just six months’ Inns in all its disguises. Although the debt landlords. tenancy is a real compliment. collectors are a regular reminder of the Sandra Taylor and Peter Broom have On Saturday 2 June, a major event past, none of the various Vale Inn cohorts been making the most out of their short- has been scheduled at The Black Horse has anything to do with the business now. term tenancy of The Black Horse Inn in to follow on from the success of a similar Whilst Punch Taverns have been actively The Chesham Vale. Although they have event held at The Bull before its demise. trying to sell the property for over a

42 Hilltop News Hilltop News 43 Snow, Sun and the St Leonards Parish Hall Princess Royal Diamond Jubilee Fete

On 7 February, we had a very special Saturday 2nd June 2012 visitor to our RDA Centre at Bank Farm, Bellingdon. The Princess Royal is patron of the national charity Riding for the Disabled Horse Show and Gymkhana (from 9.30) Association. Dog Show (from 1pm) e were told about the visit of HRH six weeks prior and at first Wwe thought oh, February in the Grand opening by a celebrity guest at 2 pm Chilterns, what a time to come and visit us! But we all pulled together and Bank Farm Please make a note in your diary! was smartened up. Then snow was forecast and our hearts sank slightly - but we had Activities and stalls, refreshments, vintage cars, motor cycles plans. A marquee was erected just as it and bicycles, Morris dancers, real ale and much more. hokey cokey. Good fun was had by all. started to snow five days before our big Twenty of our young helpers managed day. Then three days before the visit all our A children’s Jubilee Fancy Dress competition. to get the day off school and were all water froze. Luckily, the sun shone on the presented to HRH, who spoke to each and A day out for all the family. day and, like a dream, the pipes thawed. every one of them. They all went home The Royal party duly arrived by with a buzz of excitement. We will need items for stalls including bottles, books, helicopter and landed in a field opposite It was then on to meet our supporters bric-a-brac, toys, plants, tombola etc – the usual village our centre. We have good neighbours who and sponsors, cut the cake donated by a were only too delighted to let us borrow collection will take place during the week before the fete. local bakery and listen to a special song, their field: they even cut their hedges. written and sung by a talented 13-year- After the official line up Anne, the If you could run a stall or have new ideas please let us know. old. Our riders also received the special Princess Royal observed a very special treatment from the Princess Royal and Horse Show details and entry forms from four-year-old girl preparing for her ride. all received rosettes. HRH left us in the Evie is blind and deaf, so we have to keep Caroline Channer 0144282 5882 helicopter, with a cloud of snow and a any changes to the bare minimum for her wave. Dog Show details from Jonathan Bright 758907 (we hadn’t counted on the fact that we It was an amazing day with an amazing had painted our barn floor and that would Lady. Our RDA centre has no paid staff and The fete is the hall’s main fund-raising event and the proceeds help to keep hire change her image of where she was: but all our planning, invitations, admin and rates competitively low. Any offer of help, however small, contributes to making all was OK in the end). We always have the hard work was done by willing trustees and same routine, same helpers and same pony this important village event a success. volunteers. We all feel very privileged to and nothing changed for this session either. be part of this RDA group. Good luck to all After this lesson, five riders from one of For more information contact Dave Clarke 758567 who have future visits planned: all the hard our local schools mounted up and gave a [email protected] work is well worth the effort. demonstration of a game using a horse ball (a ball with handles) and finished with the Kay Cullen (Trustee)

44 Hilltop News Hilltop News 45 46 Hilltop News Hilltop News 47 CURVACEOUS COOK Easter Muffins I have discovered muffins late, but am using them more and more for a quick bit of carbohydrate to add to a meal. I was asked for an Easter-ish recipe, and was thinking along the lines of simnel cake, but these are so quick and simple decided to go with these. 2 cups (300G) Self raising flour 125g butter, chopped 1 cup (80g) flaked almonds 2/3 rd cup(150g) caster sugar 1 tbs grated orange rind ½ cup (125ml) orange marmalade 2 lightly beaten eggs ½ cup (125ml) milk ¼ cup (20g) flaked almonds for the topping Grease a 12 hole muffin tin, or large fairy cake tins. Sift flour into large bowl and rub in the butter. I actually melt the butter, doesn’t seem to make any difference Stir in the nuts, sugar, rind, marmalade, eggs and milk. Don’t over mix, this is what makes a muffin rather than a cake! Spoon into prepared tins and bake in a moderate oven for about 20 minutes. They take about 15 minutes on the rack on the floor of the top oven of an Aga. Lovely for breakfast as well as tea.

Lulu Stephen: [email protected]

48 Hilltop News Hilltop News 49 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 June/July edition should be sent to Graham Lincoln or Anne Butterworth (Church Matters) by 7 May 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] Photography Oliver Parsons 758694 [email protected] Distribution Rosemary Pearce 758334 Printer Strongs, 01442 878592 [email protected]

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