Hilltop News

April & May 2020 Challenging times…

Normally with this ‘April/May’ issue we are turning our backs on winter and looking forward to the joys of Spring and the many planned local events ahead of us. Now we are in sombre mood as the coronavirus health crisis casts its sinister shadow. At the time of writing the impact of this deadly pandemic gets more severe by the minute, but we can but listen to the experts and follow their advice. We hope and pray The custom of giving eggs at Easter celebrates new that the coming spring and summer life. May this Easter lift your spirits. months promise better times ahead. In the meantime… So, if you are confined at home or need o you need help with shopping, a any assistance, or would like to offer your prescription or anything else? help, please don’t hesitate to contact us D Some of us, maybe many of us, on this free phone number 0845 8 735 737 could be facing some difficult times over or email us at the next weeks and months dealing with [email protected] the impact of the coronavirus on ourselves, Nick Butterworth, Hilltop Churches Group our families, friends and neighbours. Chris Brown, Good Neighbours Group One thing about living in these villages is a strong sense of community and it is usual for neighbours to rally round when Also in this issue: someone needs some help. • Continuing childhood memories from The difference this time is many more Down Under people at any one time might be laid low • Helping Hands support home care with the virus or restrictions introduced by • Hilltop Villages choir in good voice the Government. In addition, because of an • Good Neighbours Group invites police underlying medical condition, some people team to explain local law and order will need to isolate themselves from other … plus Chris Brown identifies some of our people and withdraw from participating garden birds which may be overlooked in their usual day-to-day activities for an Our Curvaceous Cook serves up a quick and extended period of time. easy treat The Hilltop Churches and Good …plus all the news from our Churches, Neighbours Group have put together lists School, Clubs, Pubs, Councils and Societies of volunteers who have offered to help anyone living in these villages with getting Opposite shopping done, medicines collected, phone The nature of our Commons and Hilltop contact or just help with anything else Villages in Spring always inspire and during this difficult time. gladden the heart…

Hilltop News 3 H&C School. If you have one or more the county and 50% of young people go to THE PARISH COUNCIL children, not at the school, please contact THE COUNTY COUNCIL university? These statistics bring home what Elections 2020 and co-option to the Parish the Parish Clerk to add your children’s pring is in the a privilege it is to live in the Chilterns, and Council names to the list for a mug. It is hoped to air, and after all top of my agenda will always be to protect With the postponement of local council produce additional mugs for sale. Sthe rain that made our wonderful environment! elections this May, Parish Council our countryside so Buckinghamshire Council elections will now take place in May 2021. muddy, let’s hope we Bucks County Council will cease to exist From 1st April Buckinghamshire Council is Consequently, the Council is looking to fill can look forward to a on 31 March and the new Buckinghamshire responsible for all our local government a vacancy by co-opting an additional Parish pleasant Easter with Council goes live on 1st April. I am satisfied services. These will continue unchanged Councillor. opportunities for sport that our services will continue seamlessly for the present. There will be a new Are you interested in giving something and gardening! Out from that date, but know that the new contact number but you can continue to back to your community? Could you and about the roads have been severely departmental teams will take time to use existing telephone numbers and email volunteer some time, energy and expertise, damaged by the wet weather and together settle down. It will be possible to raise your addresses. Visit www.buckinghamshire.gov. to find practical solutions and get things with Rosie, the Manager of the Amersham concerns during the interregnum, with the uk for more information. done for your community? Depot, and Joe the Local Area Technician, new council elected on 7th May. Please let Parish councillors represent residents’ Hayley Farrelly, Parish Clerk, 07769 698 652 I inspected the areas most affected. I have me know if I can help you! views and press for improvements to listened to the concerns of the Parish Buckinghamshire Council’s services, Council and residents and TfB will deal Tricia Birchley such as roads, planning decisions and with flooding problems particularly at County Councillor, Chiltern Ridges Your councillors are: enforcement, refuse collection, protection Jenkins Lane/Chapel Road, Bottom Road, [email protected] of our environment, etc. Meetings are Chris Brown (Chairman): 758890 Swan Lane and Sandpit Hill by cleaning out 01296 651823, 0771 470 4017 also held with police, health and fire Bill Ingram (Vice-Chairman): 758258 underground storage tanks and clearing up services and voluntary organisations. If you Nigel Blomfield: 758314 the mud and gravel off the highway. are interested, please contact the Parish Diane Brackley: 01296 625081 Clerk or come along to the Parish Council It was devastating to learn that HS2 will Philip Matthews: 758205 meeting at 8pm on 27 April at St Leonards go ahead and it prompted Martin Tett, Parish Hall. Francis Sanger: 758767 Leader of BCC, together with our Bucks MPs, to meet the Transport Minister, Rt Council Tax Hon Grant Shapps MP, in Westminster to This year, the Parish Council will be again stress the need for the bored tunnel receiving £34.65 from each Band G to continue north of Wendover. Everyone household. This is an increase of £2.33 on from MPs to councillors to local residents last year but is the first increase in over nine HS2 thunders on have gone every inch of the way to stop years. nevitably, the HS2 High-Speed train it in the High Court, Select Committees in Annual Parish Meeting project was given the go-ahead in the Houses of Parliament, regular letters The Annual Parish Meeting is at 8pm on IFebruary. Many residents of the to the Press, and locally. That said, the new Monday 1st June at St Leonards Parish Hilltop Villages joined our local MP, Buckinghamshire Council will continue Hall. This is an opportunity to hear what County and Parish Councillors at many to oppose it whilst working with the the parish council has done over the year meetings to challenge the project in contractors in the interests of residents, by and ask questions to parish and unitary terms of cost, necessity, noise, disruption holding their feet to the fire. authority councillors. and environmental damage. Most of Did you know the average house price VE Day Commemoration us thought from the early stages that in Bucks is £407,967; the population is With uncertainty over the holding of public this would all be in vain. The one crumb 546,000; 31% of the County is designated events, the Parish Council is instead looking of comfort is that much of the route as green belt; the Buckinghamshire to commission, from local artists, a VE Day through our beautiful Chiltern Hills has economy is worth £15.2 billion; almost 1 Commemorative Mug for each child up to been forced underground. in 2 of the workforce is employed outside age 11 as of 8 May 2020 living within the parish council area, or currently attending 4 Hilltop News Hilltop News 5 the earlier time of 7.30pm with a brief Local History AGM. This will be followed by a short talk Group entitled The Polish Resettlement Camp at Marsworth. Our speaker will be Sandra or our meeting on Costello. There will be a display to go with Friday 3 April there the talk. The evening continues with a is Beer, Sausages F buffet provided by our members and wine & Marmalade on the by the Local History Group. As this meeting menu. In the nineteenth starts at the earlier time of 7.30pm, please century Oxford became well-known for make sure you arrive promptly for 7.15pm its ‘Celebrated Oxford Sausages’ and for to allow everyone to get seated in good Frank Cooper’s ‘Oxford Marmalade’. These time. went hand-in-hand with the city’s growing If you are new to the area, have just importance as a tourist destination. not got around to coming along before, Brewing, baking and the grocery trades or for a while, why not try out one of our Children are reading far less than they were also expanding and the families which LITTLE BEARS meetings? For visitors the entrance fee is used to and they’re enjoying it less. That’s controlled these businesses had a powerful just £4 at the door. according to new research by the National influence over Oxford’s economic, social Everybody loves a good book and the With national concerns developing day- Literacy Trust, which published its findings and political life. This talk examines the children at Little Bears are no exception. by-day we will follow government advice in the run up to World Book Day. Each child fascinating relationship between food about holding local events. Do check about Celebrating the recent World Book Day, the was given a £1 book token which can be production, tourism and politics in the city. these meetings, if necessary, nearer the children threw themselves into the theme used in one of the thousands of bookshops Our speaker, Liz Whooley, is an Oxford and supermarkets which are taking part. time. and dressed up as some of their favourite local historian specialising in aspects of the Playleader and ex-children’s librarian history of the ‘town’ and is an experienced book characters. Holding their prized Claire Cox said, “There are lots of reasons speaker, guide and writer. Chris Brown (01494 758890) books, the children waited eagerly as staff that people believe that World Book Day On Friday 15 May we are, for a change, email: localhistorygroup@cholesbury.com took turns to read the books throughout is important. Some children might not at Cholesbury Village Hall, starting at like reading or struggle with it, so it can the morning and during following days. be an encouraging event for them. We ostumes included two caterpillars, endeavour to foster a love of books at Little from the ever popular Eric Carle Bears, with planned and impromptu story Cbook, The Very Hungry Caterpillar; reading, something which we hope will two tigers from Judith Kerr’s classic, build their love of reading when they move The Tiger Who Came to Tea; a beautiful up to school. Dressing up also made it a home-made shell from The Snail and the particularly fun event.” Whale; Woody from Toy Story and several princesses.

6 Hilltop News Hilltop News 7 Not much has changed in 176 years really – CHOLesbury cum St illustrating the timelessness of gardening. LEONARDS HORT SOC Even the next paragraph may be timely ‘It is now a good time to bleed and take physic; ‘If you have a garden and a library you abstain from much wine, or other strong have everything you need’ (Cicero) liquors; as they will cause a ferment in your blood and ruin your constitution.’ mongst my mother-in-law’s books was an almanac for 1824. Under Further specific instructions for sowing AApril it says… and hoeing come in May but ‘we must be careful to avoid eating salt, strong or stale ‘With the Farmer and the Gardener this is the meats: ‘ busiest month in the Whole Year; for now whatsoever you have a mind to plant or sow, The committee has now drawn up plans for the Earth is fit to receive. Hoe your carrots, the year. I visited Mottisfont last year and radishes, onions etc. Set French beans, plant the roses are very special. asparagus, separate the layers of artichokes, Remember booking is essential for all events and plant three of them in one hole. Plant – Coach trips with Diana Mills on dimills24@ garden beans, and large pease to succeed gmail.com and all other events with Di other crops. Plant slip of sage, rue, rosemary, Garner on [email protected]. lavender etc. Sow all sorts of sallad herbs and To join the Society please email montana@ spinach in moist places for the last time. Sow cholesbury.net (Diana Garner). turnips, and all sorts of cabbage -lettuce, and Happy gardening, transplant cos and Silesia lettuces which were sown last month. Water your beds if the Sarah Tricks weather be dry’

The Hort Soc Programme for 2020:

Friday 17 April 7.30 “The Duke, the Gentian, and the Bee-fly” by Mick Jones, BBOWT at Cholesbury VH. Ploughman’s Supper, plus first glass of wine/soft drink - £5 pp.

Friday 22 May Members Evening Garden Visit to Sarah Nicholson’s NGS garden at from 6.00 – 8.00 Cedar House, Bacombe Lane, Wendover HP22 6EQ. Restricted parking so booking essential Tuesday 23 June Coach trip to Mottisfont and on – full details to be confirmed 8.30 to 6.30 Friday 10 July Members Evening Open Garden to Ann and John Horn, Laburnam from 6.00 to 8.00 Cottage, Jenkins Lane, St Leonards in aid of St Francis Hospice Saturday 5 Annual Horticultural Show and Craft Fair in Hawridge and September Cholesbury school. Friday 11 September Members Evening Open Garden to Cath and John Allen, from 6.00 to 8.00 Springwood, Buckland Common in aid of Cholesbury Village Hall Friday 20 November AGM, Supper and quiz. £5.00 pp. at 7.30 in CVH

8 Hilltop News Hilltop News 9 Last time they came quite a few children were involved who complained that there wasn’t enough litter! Unfortunately, most of the litter on the Commons is by the roadsides and so not entirely safe for young children but should you know of another messy area that would be better for them please let me know.

Get Out There team At the beginning of March we had another visit from the Hammersmith-based group HAWRIDGE & to help with the clearance of gorse CHOLESBURY COMMONS from the heather extension area. This organization encourages people who are PRESERVATION SOCIETY often without family, who are isolated and/ or experiencing difficulties in their lives to Annual Litterblitz take part in a variety of activities in and This year our Litterblitz will be from around Hammersmith and beyond. Their Saturday 4th to Monday 13th April. As involvement here over the years has been always it is good to get litter out of the very helpful to us and their hard work is hedgerows and grassy areas before the very much appreciated. We hope that they vegetation begins to grow rampantly derive pleasure from their visits and that Getting out there! and it all becomes too difficult to access. they may be able to return in the summer We really value your help in keeping the and see the results of their work when at dusk, which is a wonderful sight for us allow them to raise chicks successfully again Commons tidy at all times and especially the heather is in full bloom. Our thanks to but a sign that they are hungry. this year. The Tawnies on the Common are those of you who do it on a regular basis. Cathy Maund for continuing to encourage The Times article goes on to state that certainly active as well. If possible please try to take some photos their involvement. with numbers down by 70 per cent and Parking and verges of the things that you find and email them only about 4,000 breeding pairs left in The continuous wet weather has meant to me [email protected]. We have Britain, every Barn Owl is precious. About a found the most amazing array of items over Owls third of all fledged Barn Owls are killed on the years. Lynne Lambert from Bucks Owl and motorways. A year or two ago one of the Garbage bags for collection will be left Raptor Group (BORG) visited recently and owls reared here was found by the roadside by the Cricket Pitch; by the bench at the found two Barn Owls in one of the boxes near Mentmore having been hit by a car. layby opposite Hillview and BrackenView which we put up on Christine’s farmland. She suffered brain damage as a result, is and by the Notice board opposite Church With plenty of unmown grass, this land unable to hunt for herself but survives in Lane. Filled bags can be returned to these generally provides optimal conditions for care. three points for Council Collection though small mammals and Barn Owls to thrive. A further hazard is rat and mouse most collectors simply take smaller items However, the recent wet weather has been poison. Recent government figures have home for roadside collection. If you find particularly trying for Barn Owls as they shown that 90 per cent of Barn Owl any items which are too heavy to carry are unable to fly in wet weather since their carcasses contained rodenticide. Since a please move them to the roadside if you feathers absorb water, unlike other raptor poisoned rat or mouse might take some can or let us know where they are so that species. As a recent Times article pointed time to die they become easy prey for a we can move them and alert the Council out ‘Unless they are desperate they avoid hungry owl with unfortunate unintended who will also pick those up from the going out in the rain, as a sodden, cold owl consequences. roadside. can quickly die of hypothermia.’ Their need It is really good to know that a breeding This year Sarah Tricks and her group of to forage for food when it is dry has meant pair have survived here and we hope that Geo-cachers have offered to help again. that they have been seen quite frequently our weather conditions will improve to Sensible parking!

10 Hilltop News Hilltop News 11 that parking on the verges is a constant problem. We suggest that if you are National organ day CHOLESBURY-CUM-ST NEIGHBOURHOOD parking at the Village Hall it is more aturday 18 April was declared LEONARDS W.I. WATCH efficient if you park at right angles to the ‘National Organ Day’ by the Royal ock Up, Light Up, road which allows many more cars to park College of Organists. This was to Our own member, Hilary Sheppard, gave a S Be Secure - this is there. encourage halls, churches and any building slide presentation at the February meeting. the advice from that houses an organ to open their doors L The marvellous photographs gave us a Community Safety News. Rogue riders, cars and cyclists on the on that day so that the instruments can be very good impression of the Italian Lakes Ensure properties are safe Common heard by a wider audience. St. Leonards before setting off for the day by shutting These have all presented problems and the church would have taken part in this event and the atmosphere was enhanced by and locking all windows, doors and side damage done in the sodden conditions is but coronavirus put paid to this. an appropriate musical accompaniment gates. Keep valuables out of sight and particularly disappointing. The rules for The organ at St. Leonards has an compiled by Norman. spare keys out of reach from windows and Commons users are there to make the interesting history: it was built sometime doors. If out all day leave a light on or use Commons a pleasant place for everyone. between 1805–1825 by Theodore Bates lease do come along to our April a timer switch. Store tools and ladders in a Please abide by them. whose workshop was close to St Paul’s meeting when garden designer locked shed and set any alarms. Cathedral in Ludgate Hill. PMarie Greenhill will have many ideas Greetings cards The instrument probably would not and useful information on how you can Shirley Blomfield (758314) We now have 8 new designs and reprints have been meant for a church but for a enhance your gardens. of some of our earlier cards which are large country house where it would have Monday 20 April is the date, 8pm in St selling well. They are also available from been used to accompany singers and other Leonards Parish Hall. All visitors are very Wigginton Village Shop and The Lee Shop instrumentalists for fashionable “soirées” welcome, 50p at the door. but cheaper from us (758 440) £1.25 each or popular at the time. On 18 May we shall be discussing the 5 for £5. The organ came to St. Leonard’s church Resolutions which are going forward to in 1949, previously it was in a Baptist chapel the NFWI Annual Meeting to be held at Subscriptions at New Mill in Tring. It was not in very good the Albert Hall on 4 June. The resolutions Thank you to the many members who condition at the time having suffered poor are decided by members’ votes from a have now paid their subscriptions (£10 for quality alterations to enable it to fit into shortlist and this year the two selected are individual membership or £20 for a couple an alcove. However, it was repaired and “a call to increase potential stem cell donor to include the family members). If you served well for St Leonards until it needed registration” (received 38,280 votes) and haven’t already done so you can contact attention again in 1997. It was dismantled “end modern slavery” (35,395 votes). The our treasurer Philip Prettejohn (email and taken away for a complete restoration institute has one vote (for or against) for [email protected] or telephone carried out by organ builder Robert each resolution and our delegate will take 758 003) or pay by PayPal via the website Shaftoe, incidentally a descendant of the our decision to the Albert Hall meeting. hawridgeandcholesburycommons.org. Bobbie Shaftoe mentioned in the well- If both resolutions are passed, there the Subs can also be paid by bank transfer to known folk song! National Federation will work on both our HCCPS account Sort Code 20-02-06 issues. Account number 50045 8015 but please For more information on this, or to find send an explanatory email to Philip as we out about our monthly meetings, contact sometimes have trouble trying to identify Carol Henry (01494 758435). who has paid by this method. Lindsay Griffin

12 Hilltop News Hilltop News 13 the middle), yes, the windmill in the near evening. We are extremely proud of our HAWRIDGE & distance. But most of all it was the people. thriving colts programme for both boys and CHOLESBURY The players in the dressing room. The girls. CRICKET CLUB retired boys on the boundary edge with Undoubtedly, there will be challenges tales of games past. The buzz of chatter ahead for a small club that relies on the from the mums and dads enjoying a well- good work of volunteers to survive. But the I really didn’t want earned drink as 50 or so young colts learned club was here before us and I and others the skills on a week-day evening. are determined it will be here after we are to get involved in If it wasn’t for the people, I wouldn’t gone. Our job – and yours too if you like - is cricket again. have stayed long. Hawridge and Cholesbury to be the best stewards we can today to he problem cricket club was a place with heart and soul. leave H&CCC in fine health for those who was, there Since I became the new chairman last succeed us on the common. Twas this month, I’ve spoken to a fair few old hands pretty ground and met some new folk. Two things have If you are interested which lay on struck me; first, we have a fine number in playing cricket the road to the of people - men and women, players and for your local side garage in Buckland supporters - for whom our club means an this season, or Common where we got the car mended. awful lot. We have a reserve of goodwill, think your children We’d moved out of London with young talent and commitment which I’m certain may be, please children and an old Toyota. Really old. It we can make the best of in the coming email chairman@ was a journey I made regularly. seasons. That is so encouraging. hawridgecricket. I had turned my back on playing. The Secondly, when you strip everything co.uk kids were too little and years of keeping away, we are a cricket club. We get wicket in league cricket had ground all together to play cricket. I am convinced Simon Lister the magic away. But I was still a cricket that the way we play the game on the pitch junkie. And each time I passed the common on a Saturday or a Sunday defines what we on the way to Chiltern Motors, it quietly, are. Those who play for us at any level or persuasively, drew me in a little further. The age group are at the heart of why we exist. roped-off square, the neat clubhouse, the All the other wonderful and vital things invitingly short boundary on the road side. that we can do as a club away from the And that was just in the winter. When the common radiate from that. sun shone on a game in full swing, heaven It is also true to say that in the past help me, I had to keep my eyes on the road couple of seasons, there have been some and my hands on the wheel. lean times; we have sometimes struggled No prizes for guessing what unfolded. for players and on occasion things have First, it was the odd Sunday game. Then a appeared a little forlorn. But when I look few more. Then, switching from Sundays down the list of our playing membership, I to a Saturday debut and league cricket see both strength and potential. again. And now, a few years on from my I’m also excited by being joined by new full relapse, my debut in Hilltop News as players in 2020. My message to them is chairman of Hawridge and Cholesbury that you are all most welcome. We have cricket club. Still a cricket junkie, but a very a Saturday league team and a Sunday proud one. friendly team. If, like me, you thought your So what drew me back? Yes, it was cricketing days were done, think again. the beautiful ground, yes, it was the And if you have children who want to play, short boundary (which looks a darn sight bring them down and let them be drawn in longer when you’re scratching around in to the magic of the common on a Thursday

14 Hilltop News Hilltop News 15 there is sufficient space on the road for Hawridge and Cholesbury C of E School larger vehicles and the emergency services to pass through. As an aside to World Book Day there is also a campaign for “Share a Million Stories” Amongst the other events for the second championing the importance of sharing half of this term is a Sports Star of the stories and giving the school the chance to month award that has been introduced win £1000 of books. The idea behind the where one child will be selected from each campaign is that sharing a story for just 10 year for their enthusiasm, hard work and minutes a day can have a lasting impact on sporting achievements. a child’s future and help create readers for life. All children will have a Share a Million Year 2 are due to visit Mountfitchet Stories reading record and can then tick Castle, which is a unique open-air museum off how many times they share a story with with the children witnessing life in a family or teachers. This record then gets medieval Motte and Bailey castle and Year collated by the school every Monday and fed 4 are visiting The Living Rainforest Project As I write this the children are at school in to a national total. in Newbury as part of this term’s geography dressed up for World Book Day. It was work. Meanwhile, Year 3 have a tennis The middle of March also saw British quite interesting to hear an article on festival at Chiltern Hills Academy and the Science week with a special focus on the radio yesterday offering a 50/50 split Year 5 and 6 football team have had a science in school run by the British Science number of football matches with other between those parents who thought the Association. This was a celebration of local primary schools. initiative was a good idea encouraging science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM – as most things need an acronym in children to read and those who thought The PSA organised a successful quiz science) featuring a number of entertaining the day of dressing up filled them with night with a good turn out from parents and engaging events. The school organised and staff alike. Not only was the evening dread. There were also complaints various science activities during the enjoyed by all – a decent amount of money week with teachers also encouraging the regarding how many “one stop” purchases was also raised for the school. In the hope children to consider careers in science would be made and the effect on the that sooner or later the weather will and technology. They considered “Our turn, organisation for the Spring Fayre on environment. The school had a great way Diverse Planet” in lessons and assembly and Saturday 16 May has also commenced and, to get round this with a “World Book Day invited parents in to discuss how science is as ever, everyone is welcome. costume sale” before the main event. involved in their jobs. An immersive theatre company also visited the school bringing James Morris he sale of any donated/unwanted/ an inflatable planetarium. This involved too small costumes was held a couple a presenter-led introduction to the night Tof weeks before World Book Day, sky, a visit to various planets, a 3D visit to ensuring at least a second use. Organised the International Space Station and an by a parent, all funds raised were then immersive 360 degree film. Ann Buckley being used to buy new bean bags and Bespoke Floral Designs cushions for the school library. It would Parking continues to be an issue at seem some schools also put a different slant drop off and pick up time and the school Flowers for all occasions on what should be worn which added to regularly remind parents to be considerate parents’ frustration. Fortunately, Hawridge to neighbours and traffic using the main and Cholesbury stuck with the theme of through roads to the villages. The pick-up choosing a character from a book they had 01442 890184 time for Key Stages 1 and 2 is staggered 07909 542149 enjoyed reading giving enough flexibility to to allow a greater degree of flexibility and [email protected] both the parents and the children. parents have also been reminded to ensure

16 Hilltop News Hilltop News 17 Our annual ST LEONARDS VILLAGE FETE showpiece he St Leonards Village fete, the main event of the parish hall’s Tsocial calendar, is planned for 6 SATURDAY 6th JUNE at 2pm June at 2pm. This year the profits will go towards their latest project, the smart and very welcome refurbishment of the kitchen including its new flooring. Pony Show at 10:00am We pride ourselves on providing a traditional village fete with something Companion Dog Show & Fun Classes – booking at 1pm for all the family. As well as stalls, games, food and drink we have a Pony Show and Dog Show (with show and pet categories including the dog the • Tug o’ War • Jazz Band • Classic Cars • judges would most like to take home and the best 6 legs!). Attractions include • Punch & Judy • Stocks with wet sponges • Morris Dancers • the mighty tug-o-war where you can • Welly Wanging • Bouncy Castle • demonstrate your strength, alternatively you may prefer to sit and relax with a • Teas, Bar and barbeque • beverage whist listening to our band or and many other side stalls! watching the Morris Dancers. We even have a display of Classic Cars and for the children, a Bouncy Castle, Carousel and a highly popular Circus Skills workshop. You can also chance your luck with our raffle and tombola. Information 01494 757047 or www.wherecanwego.com Refreshments will include barbeque, Pony Show 07956 356945 Dog Show [email protected] Cream Teas provided by our wonderful WI, Ice Creams, and a Beer & Pimms tent. Free Parking We hope for a fun-filled afternoon. For pony show details, call 07956 www.stleonardsparishhall.uk 356945. For dog show details, email [email protected]. General information, call 01494 757047

18 Hilltop News Hilltop News 19 20 Hilltop News Hilltop News 21 A tough life on the farm

Bill Walsh continues his memories of his early years on a remote farm in Australia…

Our farm was in the village of Southbrook on the Darling Downs, 70 miles west of Brisbane. There were many jobs. Milking cows, feeding pigs, ploughing the fields and collecting (and packing) eggs were regular duties.

hen I was around W15, Mum and Dad wanted a holiday. I came home from boarding school in a term break. Our team of plough horses It seemed totally after the first or second time. It required occasionally. I would take the .22 rifle on reasonable that I the right front tractor wheel to be in the the off chance that I would see a rabbit. would run things. previous plough line – then hands free until I don’t recall ever getting one. One very Unfortunately, one morning I overslept. the corner. We probably drove tractors special treat was to go camping down by A phone call from a neighbour roused from age 9 or 10. No health and safety the sea at Redcliffe. Our uncle, Bill Erwin, me, but not early enough to catch the regulations then. Dad did have horses, but I had a truck which would be loaded up with milk truck. This was not really a problem never used them to plough. all the gear, including flooring timbers to as we all drove from an early age. I Getting dressed for the day was very ensure we were never flooded by the rain. drove the truck to the factory – to some simple in summer. A pair of shorts. No hat, When we got there, I would paddle in the uncomplimentary remarks from the men shirt or shoes. We did get a good tan. There sea as I could not swim. Later I got the there, unloaded the milk and took whey was no concept of skin cancer - as is so courage to use an inflated tyre tube to give back in the cans for the pigs. evident now from those who continued to me buoyancy. It was many years later that I Seeing the men making cheese was work outdoors in their adult years. I don’t learnt a basic swimming method (even now intriguing. I recall the taste difference from recall wearing shoes in those early years. I am not really a strong enough swimmer to the first curds to that of a cheddar that had s The soles of our feet were thick enough ensure safety in a crisis). Continued matured for 12 months (Dad would pick a to ignore most sharp things – there were 5 or 10 pound block of cheese which would Sanitation duties! prickles called bullheads that were quite then sit on a shelf in the factory cold room in buckets. At the end of the day was the piercing. until mature enough for his taste.) Dad task of cleaning and packing the eggs in Winter was a different matter. Most always said that the cheesemaker was good crates of 15 dozen. There were always a windows in the house did not close fully. and won awards. significant number of cracked eggs which Our beds were on the enclosed veranda The most disliked job was the emptying required being used within a day or so. I which ensured the room temperature of the outdoor toilet. This required a hole seem to recall that we would eat eggs (in was the same as outside. I recall the very to be dug, the can carried into the field or various forms) at least once a day - if not heavy blankets with which we would cover orchard and the waste buried deep enough 2 or 3 times as well as cakes, etc that Mum ourselves for warmth. Even then the most to ensure animals did not dig it up. would bake to use up the eggs. we wore on our feet in the morning were We had several thousand hens. They Ploughing the field was a boring job rubber boots if it was wet. would lay their eggs which we collected I would go for walks with the dog

22 Hilltop News Hilltop News 23 There were two large water tanks near the house. They held water pumped up Hilltop Villages from the windmill. On a very hot day, Community Choir you could climb up the ladder to get into A new chapter … now known as ‘Hilltop Voices’ the tank and hold on to the rim while Community submerged. In retrospect, very dangerous ince Nicola Leat stepped down in as I couldn’t swim. for Chesham December 2019, the Hilltop Villages We had several greyhounds. Through SCommunity Choir has had a few support for these Dad had formed a friendship with changes, but continues to be taught by new community bookshop, the Cantwell family in Sydney (500 miles Judy Bullock, our enthusiastic, always Chapter Two, is opening in away). We would train the dogs by making cheerful and supportive Choir Leader. Chesham on Saturday 28 March Wigginton a lure of rabbit skin. This involved winding A We are now known as Hilltop Voices and with all profits going to support The an upturned pushbike pedal as fast as you the choir team includes Judy, Kate, Sue, Hospice of St Francis, which helps local could - while the dogs would be released Shirley, Rosie and Tracy, with support from people affected by cancer or a life- Village Shop from a starting box about 400 yards away. choir members. limiting illness. It really required an adult’s strength to get We continue to sing at the Cholesbury The bookshop, at 10 High Street, the lure home first as the greyhounds were Village Hall on Wednesday evenings from has sustainability at its heart, giving and Café very fast. On race days, we would milk the 19.45 to 21.15 and learn a wide variety new life to once-cherished books and cows and then drive to Capalaba for the of songs from across the world as well as re-using materials inside the shop from races. It was a long, late drive home and the classics and songs from musicals. he village shop celebrated its first donated bookcases to reading tables cows’ udders would be leaking milk. They Why not come along and try us out? We anniversary at the end of last year. and chairs. Visitors are encouraged to were always waiting at the cow shed for us would love to see you. TSupport has been fantastic and it on our return. Dad frequently came home pop in and browse the books from the has some lovely statistics that prove it. ever-changing collection whilst enjoying with considerable winnings. My brother HVCC term dates for 2020 During its first year there were more a coffee. They can also take inspiration Laurie later continued this success. Winter term than 9,000 volunteer hours worked, from the curated gift collection of The Cantwells once invited my sister Up to 1st April (13 weeks) with 8th & 15,000 cups of coffee and 5,000 cups of stationery, cards, vinyl records or Patricia to their home. We got on a twin- 15th April as fun sessions! tea sipped, 6,500 slices of cake and 3,000 bespoke items created by the Hospice’s engined plane in Oakey. This hopped its Spring Term sandwiches eaten, 6,500 loaves of bread Creates & Makes volunteer team. way to Sydney, leaving us with terrible air 22nd April to 8th July (12 weeks) with and 700 donuts gobbled! With a dedicated children’s area and sickness. Sydney was so massive to a country 15th & 22nd July as fun sessions! The shop’s success is due in no small plans for workshops from book binding kid. I seem to recall that I was about 12 Summer Term part to an amazing group of volunteers to book origami and novel writing to then. What an experience. 29th July to 9th September (7 weeks) - who cover a variety of flexible shifts each reading groups, it will be a community 16th & 23rd September as fun sessions! week. People get involved for numerous space for all plus offer the chance to find Autumn Term reasons; to be part of or give back to the out more about the work of the Hospice 30th September to 16th December community, to get out for a few hours, (which has cared for people from (12 weeks) to be around people, or give back using Chesham for over 40 years) with ‘Meet Christmas Break their skills. It’s a fact that volunteering the Nurse’ events and other information is great for the soul! The team offer events planned. full training, socials, tastings and of For more information, please visit Chapter Two is open seven days course being part of a growing group www.hilltopvoices.co.uk a week. Donations of good quality of friends. If it sounds like something our Facebook page – Hilltop Voices books during opening hours are always you’d like to know more about visit Community Choir welcome. Find out more about Chapter www.wiggintonshop.org.uk/volunteers or email [email protected] Two, The Hospice of St Francis and its or speak to Sally Clarke: manager@ free services at www.stfrancis.org.uk/ Kate Miller wiggintonshop.org.uk chaptertwo.

24 Hilltop News Hilltop News 25 An Extraduction

I was not expecting to have a second when the Scriptures read in church expose chance to write for Hilltop News, having dark motives and actions. The events of Holy Week share something with Leontes’ shared a few thoughts about Just Passing folly, as we are reminded of the selfish Through, in the February/March edition. anger of the Temple authorities. As they put to death the only One who hope you like the title: I couldn’t find an can truly save us from the great unknown, antonym for ‘introduction’ that didn’t there is nothing comical or off-stage about sound horribly negative; but I wanted I it, but we already know that Jesus will to tell you a bit about myself, now that return, and bring the light of Hope to those I’ve been with you a little - not so that you who will believe in him. know about me, but to help you prepare Well my exit is far less dramatic, even to tell the story of your parishes to the though it comes at a time overshadowed priests who might be interested in sharing by certain fears, and I am going to a place the journey of faith and life with you. with four rural village churches which fits But I’m doing so on my way out, so: an my growing-up and priestly experience. extraduction. But I have been shaped by many things The final words of Antigonus, in over the years: the Franciscan way of Shakespeare’s Winter’s Tale, are something seeing and believing; a love of music, of an extraduction, as he explains why he is and hymnody and song; a love of Biblical leaving the baby Perdita on a beach. She is stories, with their insights to human nature then found, and eventually returns to the and God’s love; a love of people’s stories, court of her penitent father, King Leontes; and homely fellowship; a love of scientific but Antigonus is the subject of the most learning and discovery; and the love of famous stage direction: wife and children - and now a grandchild, [ Exit, pursued by a bear. ] making sense of what is precious and worthwhile. King Leontes’ suspicion and harshness That is the challenge now ahead of you: had caused the deaths of Perdita’s brother to identify the things that have shaped and mother, but her return heals the rift and fashioned you: not the externals, but between her father and his oldest friend, the roots of faith and love; the things that thus righting a very foolish wrong. build you up in the Christian life, that you Sadly, in Act III, scene 3, the bear not value and will work to pass on to the rest of only follows poor Antigonus, but catches your communities now, and in generations up with him. to come. Shakespeare’s plays are often based on I am enriched and grateful from people’s regrettable actions and subsequent travelling a little while with you and I wish reconciliations. you all God’s best in the years ahead. [ Exit, As such, they reflect an important part hopefully not pursued by a bear. ] of the overall Christian story. This edition comes out in Passiontide, Revd. Stephen Southgate

26 Hilltop News Hilltop News 27 28 Hilltop News Hilltop News 29 Friends of Hawridge Church. The Friends There remains an open invitation to any Church matters were established in 2016 to raise funds villager to volunteer as our Parish Secretary to be used in maintaining and repairing (please contact Elizabeth Tomlin, 07753 the Church (thus not be used in meeting 817431). the other costs of a parish). The Parish is from the registers most grateful to all who have supported, Let us hope Sunday 3rd May will be dry in whatever way, The Friends from its and sunny for our Cream Teas at Cholesbury ST LEONARDS inception and so helped so significantly Village Hall – volunteer bakers and helpers Funeral and Burial in this work. The Friends continues to needed (contact: Elizabeth). The following 17 February 2020 Eirlys Noreen Morwena Tyler accept donations for this purpose, and any day is no longer the Bank Holiday as that 20 February 2020 Albert Edwin Smith donation is very welcome indeed as the holiday has moved to Friday 8th May fabric still needs much work, even if its cycle to mark the 75th anniversary of VE day. Anne Butterworth has compiled Church Matters since Hilltop News began in 2002! We’re of events has probably come to an end for Church bells are being rung all over the so pleased Anne is home and slowly recovering – the reins will not be in other hands for the time being. country and at St Mary’s at 7.00pm to mark very long. Anne’s positive attitude is beyond anything most of us could muster! In a smaller way, the Church also accepts this – do come and try your hand at ringing donations only to be used to maintain the the bells (experienced ringers will be Coronavirus – The Hilltop Churches are following the Guidelines of the Diocese of Oxford churchyard and, as the sponsorship for present to assist). and the Government. Keeping everyone safe is our top priority! grass cutting we have gratefully received is Unfortunately, SERVICES ARE SUSPENDED AT PRESENT – along with all other events and reducing, this too will be very welcome. Annual Meetings noted in the following reports from the Three Churches. For any urgent enquires - please contact the Churchwardens or use the Church email address, all details are on the centre pages. SERVICE ROTA – CENTRE PAGES - Alterations will inevitably occur before the next edition of Hilltop News in June. Information will be posted on Grapevine and Church Noticeboards as things move on. Revd. Stephen Southgate, Interim Minister – in the Parishes since November, completed his time with us in mid-March. Due to his visit to Venice we were unable to say farewell in person but wish him and his family well in their new Parish in West Yorkshire. The process of finding a new permanent Vicar for the Hilltops progresses. The Four Churches Parish Profile Steering Group have met regularly in The Church Room and it is hoped the advertising phase is not too far ahead. Your support and patience is very much appreciated during this waiting time! As is, the generous amount of time and support we continue to receive from our loyal regular stand-in Clergy – saying thank you just never seems enough!

Communion will be given by Mike Wallis of HAWRIDGE Street Pastors (to avoid any doubt, this is he start of Lent not our Mike Wallis!). was marked with T our usual Ash The accounts of the Parish were/will be Wednesday communion presented at the Annual Meeting in the service and will close Church on Monday 30 March, together with with our usual Easter services and all are the other reports. The 2019 refurbishment most welcome and encouraged to join works would have put a very large hole our worship. On the 5th Sunday of March in the Church’s finances if it had not Repairs to Cholesbury Church (29th), the talk at the Four Churches Parish been for a major contribution from The

30 Hilltop News Hilltop News 31 Friday at 11.45 am following the Walk of years, was such a good friend of St Leonards CHOLESBURY Witness. We will celebrate the Resurrection Church and at one time Churchwarden. The ur interim of Jesus on Easter Day, 12 April, with Parish service was conducted by Revd. Ivor Cornish, Minister, Communion at 9.30. a friend and distant relative. Our thoughts OStephen and prayers are with her family. During the Southgate, has led The church’s Annual Church Meeting same week, the family of Albert Smith, who our worship but not will take place in the church on Sunday 19 was born in the villages, came to say their without incident April at 11.30 am when we report on our farewell to him. (A Tribute will appear in as a fallen tree worship and finances in 2019. Please attend the June issue). His Service was conducted threatened to delay and give your opinion. by Revd. Stephen Southgate. him early one Sunday morning: but police signs successfully redirected him. We thank We hope you’ll be able to join us at him for his commitment and also thank Easter for Services and Easter Egg hunts. Geoffrey Howell and David Holloway. The ST LEONARDS See the centre pages for details – variations process to recruit a permanent minister for will be on Grapevine and the Notice Boards! ue to concern the four parishes continues and we have about the written about Cholesbury, its church and The St Leonard’s Annual Meeting spread of people, and provided photos to help build a D (APCM- Annual Parochial Church Meeting) Coronavirus and Parish Profile that advertises the job. planned for 21st April at 7.30 in The following the Cholesbury church has three wooden Church Room. Please come to hear the guidelines from the Diocese crosses on the roof that were provided various reports and take an opportunity to regarding serving of food – we are sad to by former church warden Mike Scarrott in discuss what has been happening during say the ‘Breakfast part’ of the 4th Sunday the 1990s following a sale of skills event. the year and our hopes and plans for the Service will have to be suspended for a Unfortunately, the cross-pieces are only next. Everyone is welcome – you may have while – at present the lay led Service will Wartime crash glued to the uprights and occasionally blow questions and/or ideas for the future of the continue as normal. The 4th Wednesday down. Local builder Mark Verney agreed to Churches in the villages. It would be good remembered Tea Parties will be suspended until further repair a damaged cross and to secure with to hear from you! notice. We hope other events noted below n Friday 6 March, at the Blue screws which was possible with a Cherry will take place, but our priority is to keep Ball pub in Asheridge, a Picker that Phil Matthews provided. The everyone safe! Please watch Grapevine and ORemembrance Ceremony was photo shows the work in progress and the Church Noticeboards. held to honour the crew of the Lancaster able assistance of Mark’s 9-year old son, Bomber PB475, which crashed 75 years Toby. Very fitting as Toby is the great- After all the excitement and over- ago in fields nearby, killing six crew with grandson of Mike. indulgence of Christmas, the January and one survivor. February Breakfast Services were back to There was a good attendance of The Quiz, planned for 14 March, was normal – it was good to see appetites had 30-40 people, including local RAF postponed as a precaution against the returned for the usual good fare! The representatives. Councillors Joseph Coronavirus threat. We will find a new Church Room seems to fill very quickly and Bradshaw and Patricia Birchley helped date when the risk is more under control as always, the ages range from ‘tinies’ to Sue Robinson organise this event and and hope Peter Green’s questions stand the teenagers and the vaguely ‘getting on a bit’! Carl and Margaret from the pub supplied test of time. Thank you, Peter, for all your food for everyone. preparation. The food that we had bought We were delighted to welcome Hayley Bett and Moss Norwood of Bellingdon was sold to helpful villagers. Anderson and David Atmore for the calling located the crash site and memorial of their Banns of Marriage at the February stone (there is no public access). Moss Easter will again be a busy period for the service, ahead of their April Wedding. was an eyewitness to the crash and Hilltop Churches and the services are shown is now in his 80’s. Joseph presented a in the centre pages. Cholesbury will, as We were sad to say goodbye to two local plaque which is going to be installed in usual, host the Devotional service on Good people in February. Eirlys Tyler , over many Bellingdon Village Hall.

32 Hilltop News Hilltop News 33 34 Hilltop News Hilltop News 35 HILLTOP NEWS nature notes spreading their wings to prevent other tailed tits’ behaviour when feeding and birds access to ‘their’ nuts. the rapid head movements could be them Of these gate-crashers, the blue tit is checking out their colleagues so if one often the most numerous. These typically becomes agitated the other bird or birds Those little brown jobs arrive in large groups and dart and dash as pick this up, which accounts for their they circumnavigate the feeder, chipping balletic and almost synchronous flight. away to extract a fragment of nut. The Coal tits are the smallest member of most acrobatic of the tits, they are as happy the tit family. Distinguished also by a chalk Until some twenty years ago my knowledge of and the ability to identify many of our hanging upside down which aids their mark along the crest of the head they common birds was lamentable. Give me an insect, mollusc, amphibian, wildflower or tree avoidance of great tits. The arrival of up always appear untidy with feathers askew, and I was able to identify it, or at least know what it was closely related to. Because birds to half-a-dozen blue tits may appear as a perhaps as a result of bullying, or maybe co-ordinated strategy. It is not. Step back a it is because they often rummage through were often hidden in a tree or just moving too fast I could not catch sight of them for long little and observe, using some binoculars, the undergrowth for small invertebrates. enough to look them up. Distinguishing the many similar and varied bird calls was and still the surrounding nearby hedges or tree I normally see them as solitary visitors to is a blind spot. branches. You will likely see a pulsating the feeders, though they flock with blue throng of blue tits and other small garden tits and other small birds for safety. Coal birds that travel in groups of typically tens tits seem able to feed under the radar of any birds, especially the smaller hanging feeder. This is achieved through and twenty or more birds. Individuals then the great tits, darting in between birds and ones, can, in less than ideal a variety of strategies. Resilience to attack attempt to land on the feeder. But for even diving in to steal a morsel dislodged Msituations, appear almost from more dominant birds, by using speed every one that succeeds perhaps two or but not grabbed by other birds. indistinguishable from each other. and agility to outwit an aggressor, becomes more abort their landing and return to the The final member of the tit family seen “Those little brown jobs” as Bill Oddie a new campaign of fending off, counter safety of the branches. Blue tits that have locally is the willow tit. A patient feeder, calls them. The key to identifying such attacking and grabbing as much food in the managed to stay long enough (maybe a apparently untroubled by the antics of birds lies not just in their size, shape and time available. For birds not equipped with matter of just 10-15 seconds) depart with other peanut eaters. In contrast to the coal colour but through recognising some of a sharp beak, dazzling plumage and genes a morsel of nut, using the hedge or branch tit, the willow tit is neat, dapper cream- their distinguishing habits and typical maxed out for aggression, success is instead as a safe refuge to manipulate the nut bodied and with a sooty-black cap. It is behaviours. a matter of guile and opportunism. fragment between beak and foot before almost indistinguishable from the marsh tit Thanks to hanging up a range of bird From my observations the most assertive it disappears into the mouth. Interestingly that instead has a glossy black cap. I admit feeders with different seeds or nuts and and dominant at the bird feeder is the (to me anyway!) in the adjacent container I have presumed I have seen some of each scattering bird seed on the ground and nuthatch. The name has linguistically of fat balls blue tits are much more relaxed, species but never knowingly side-by-side to in trays, good progress can be made morphed from ‘nut-hack’ on account avoid any bullying by more aggressive birds, allow a precise comparison. I am comforted with identifying both birds that inhabit of its propensity to affix nuts between and can happily remain there for a minute in my confusion as the willow tit is said our gardens or those that visit from the ridges in bark. One can observe them, or longer. to have only arrived from the Continent surrounding countryside. characteristically perched upside-down, I’ve seen three other tit species that around 1900 and was only identified Between the months of April and prising whole peanuts from the feeder. regularly visit the peanuts. Long-tailed as a different species to the marsh tit August are the best times of the year to Any foolhardy bird joining a nuthatch will tits at the start of the year would arrive in when studied in detail by one of Lionel get a close-up sight of the many different be given a beady eye, stalked or swiftly groups of up to 15 or more. By April they Rothschild’s curators at his Natural History varieties of birds that frequent our gardens. spiked by its bill and bullied off the feeder have divided, not just into pairs but often Museum at Tring. I will concentrate on the smaller birds that toute suite. Even the largest bird that into threes and fours. Two dominant paired I will mention briefly the goldfinches congregate on our feeders. Though equally regularly visits the feeder, the great-spotted adults and one or two unpaired who assist which appear the most laid-back of interesting, there is insufficient room here woodpecker is regularly given short-shift with nest building and rearing young. hanging seed and nut feeders. They are the to tackle the antics of the many ground- by the nuthatch. Great tits are the largest Long-tailed tits are regular but short- most extravagantly coloured of our regular feeding garden birds, the medium-sized and most dominant of the tit family tree staying daily visitors but are timid and are visitors with splashes of ‘gold’, red, black thrushes and blackbirds and the much and next in the pecking order. They often easily disturbed by other birds, or if just one and white. As seed eaters they have the larger birds including the now ubiquitous arrive in twos and threes, each staking is frightened by a seemingly invisible threat run of a different feeder, stocked usually red kites that visit us regularly. out a segment and remain feeding for the all depart almost simultaneously, though with thistle. With goldfinches there is an For certain birds, securing sufficient food longest period of all. Male great tits are usually only momentarily, before returning apparent nonchalance about the chaos of depends on controlling their section on the the most assertive and often can be seen one after another. I have observed long- nature around them. Though we have up

36 Hilltop News Hilltop News 37 to three pairs that visit, each pair takes seem to succeed in this and I can only think its turn on the feeders while the others they have noticed other birds enjoying are content to await their turn, preening a feast and erroneously believe they will themselves and chattering away to their enjoy a peanut. partners. Greenfinches are rare visitors So, if like me of twenty years ago you to our garden at the moment but do try find it difficult to identify “those little out either the peanuts or the goldfinches’ brown jobs” and many of the other birds thistle seeds. Bullfinches have occasionally that visit your garden, invest in a range of checked out the seed-filled feeder but find bird feeders set up close to the house so the dexterity required to extract a seed too they are always in sight. Always keep them much bother and prefer tumbling around stocked-up with a variety of seeds and on the seed heads of a nearby stand of nuts. Have to hand at least one concise, thistles or willowherb. Blackcaps arrive in and maybe one more expansive bird book April. The female has a russet brown cap with good drawings, but not photographs. just to confuse matters. During the year Keep a pair of binoculars handy. Familiarise they are mainly insect eaters and at the yourself, not just with the colours and end of the summer, before departing these sizes, but as importantly the habits and shores, they may gorge themselves on the behaviours of the birds that visit your pyracantha berries. However, it is a joy to garden. Then whether seen in your garden see them take the opportunity to dissect or in the woodlands, commons and arable a nut or two whilst the other birds have fields around us identifying them might just left the feeder temporarily unguarded. I become a bit easier. regularly see one of our resident robins [email protected] attempt to land and negotiate the squirrel defences of our bird feeders. They never

38 Hilltop News Hilltop News 39 same time. On 17 April, Disney’s film “The is an excellent quality structure. Finishing Incredibles” will be shown in the barn from the building works in the first floor living Spring pub news 3-5pm. space is well advanced, and work on Three major future events have already the extended trading area in the bar is Given the mild winter that we have had, been scheduled. On Friday 8 May, the 75th nearing completion. Although nobody there is some expectation that we shall anniversary of VE Day will be celebrated involved is prepared to announce a date with a garden party from 12-9pm. The for reopening the pub, it is probably safe have a few opportunities to enjoy some garden grill will be open, and a wide range to estimate around mid-summer – provided sunny afternoons during May, at least in of activities is in store. On Sunday 24 May, a that the current hiccup over the provision the excellent gardens of our three trading “Shake your Booty” party will be held from of an adequate supply of electricity is pubs. In the June/July issue of Hilltop News, 3-10pm. resolved economically. Mandy posts regular Lisa and her team will repeat the annual photographs on facebook under The White we expect to be able to report definitively “Beer, Bubbles & Bands” music festival Lion Renovation. There are now quite a few on the timing of the revival of the White on 27 June. There will be live music from showing the progress as it has gone along. Lion. 2-11pm and, of course, a prosecco bar. Although there have been unexpected Our Local Planning Authority has ow that the Full Moon has two planning issues which took a while to granted planning permission for the chefs, Andrew and Phil, in the resolve, a planning application has been owners of the tragic Rose and Crown to kitchen, more extensive food service N “Burger Night” on Thursday evenings with submitted to Chiltern District Council to demolish the pub and construct three is being provided. There is full menu a selection of burgers priced at £11 for one winterise the Barn. Special events could residential properties and a velo café on service for Monday lunch and supper. To course and £15 for two courses alongside then be held in it year-round to the benefit the site. In the process, 17 conditions have give regular diners expanded variety, the the a la carte menu. New spring menus will of community members. It is also vital as a been imposed on the developers which menu rotates on a four-week cycle. The be ready by the beginning of April. positive contributor to the financial viability will need a number of further planning emphasis continues to be on seasonal and Plans are emerging to develop a quiz of the pub. Since CDC has previously failed applications to be prepared and approved largely locally sourced choices. The notable night on some Tuesdays with an option to grant permission to extend the kitchen before subsequent steps can be taken in exception is the ever-popular Fish Friday to include a “great value” meal with your and main trading area of the pub, it is vital the development. The most interesting Supper with the fish delivered fresh from quiz entry. There is also an expectation that that there is a strong response from many condition is that the “community amenity” Cornwall the same morning. Andrew can when there is warm sunshine in the large members of the public by writing in support velo café must be opened and actively even tell you which boat landed the catch. garden, their G&T of the week offer will be of the application. trading before any of the three residences Wobbly Wednesday continues with £1 popular once again. may be occupied. If you are interested in off all beer and selected wines and spirits In my previous report, I lamented the the conditions, go to planning application from 4:30 to 7:00pm. The 75th Victory As we have come to expect from past misery heaped on to Mandy at the White PL/19/3949/FA on the CDC planning portal. in Europe Day will be recognised with experience, there are many familiar Lion in October by Chiltern District Council music and celebrations over the 8-10 May activities coming up at the Black Horse Planning Officers in the form of demands In the March 2020 edition of the weekend. Since some of the events will Inn in Chesham Vale. Whilst I shall list the for three more planning applications to Bellingdon and Asheridge News the depend on weather conditions, you can highlights here, you need to go to www. be prepared. At the time this was written, following was reported under the heading expect to see timely notice given on New theblackhorsechesham.co.uk under “What’s there has been no decision taken by the ‘The Bull and nursery’: “Work continues Grapevine. On” to see precise timing and special Local Planning Authority on any of three apace in the new nursery building which conditions that apply to special offers. long outstanding planning applications. Jim Matthews hopes will open in March. Since there has been some confusion Recurring weekly events are Thirsty Indeed, one submitted in December 2018 After that there will be a pause in the about opening hours at the Old Swan Thursday, offering a bottle of wine with seems to have vanished from the CDC proceedings before work starts on the arising from online searches, the correct two adult mains and a free Pub Quiz on planning portal. pub but Jim remains fully committed to ones are Monday, bar only 6-8pm. Food is Tuesdays, when you may have a pint or The good news is that no planning reopening the Bull as a pub and restaurant served Tuesday through Sunday. Opening wine and a burger for £10. There will be officer has been on site nor in contact since as soon as possible.” on Tuesday-Thursday is 12-3pm and 6-11pm, Easter Egg Hunts at 2 and 4pm on Sunday, mid-October 2019, and work covered by on Friday and Saturday 12-11pm and Bill Ingram 12 April. During Easter School Holiday 14-17 those outstanding planning applications Sunday 12-7pm. April kids may have a children’s menu meal has either been completed or is now Aarron has recently introduced a free, conditional on adult meals at the underway. The roof is now complete and

40 Hilltop News Hilltop News 41 42 Hilltop News Hilltop News 43 Good Neighbours Group

Every three months or so I attend a you reticent in particular about contacting gathering called the Chiltern Community the Police through the non-urgent 101 service? The Police regularly say they would Forum at which the local police team, led rather you contacted them if you have by Police Inspector Richard Vine, report any concerns about suspicious activity, or on crime activity and its detection in the report any useful information, however Chiltern area. The Forum operates not insignificant it might appear to you it might add to intelligence already gathered just by meetings but through connecting elsewhere, leading to preventing or solving the police, local councils, residents and a crime. businesses to work together in setting Misgivings about Police numbers obviously have some truth - no-one priorities with the aim of collectively would argue that we have all the policing reducing crime in our area. The forum is resource that we want. However, with chaired and co-ordinated by volunteers. greater understanding of the way in which our Neighbourhood Police works am grateful to one of these, Robert with the community and other agencies, Gibson, who offered to write the Area is bucking the trend by outperforming There are daily and weekly police comes a greater understanding of the following article about the Chiltern the increases in such crimes across other patrols, by the Neighbourhood Police I jigsaw of policing, services and community Neighbourhood Police Team and the work parts of Thames Valley. Enforcement Constables, through the villages and rural which helps keep residents safe. Chiltern of the Chiltern Community Forum. Please has seen considerable disruption of drug communities around Chesham and cross- Community Forum is one part of that look at the Community Forum website dealing. Speeding, Anti Social Behaviour, border operations with Herts Police to jigsaw, in which ALL residents can get www.chilterncommunityforum.org and Knife Crime, Rogue Traders, Violence tackle rural crime, burglaries, car theft and involved. contact me if you would like to know more against a Person and Litter have all speeding. In addition, don’t underestimate Neighbourhood Police chiefs have a or attend the Forum meetings. featured at one time or another. the importance of our PCSOs, who also statutory obligation to obtain views of What if these are not your main spend time in the villages. They are the Chris Brown residents about crime and disorder, to concerns? Other crimes and issues are most visible, consistent police presence Good Neighbours Group 758890 provide information about policing in the not ignored. We advise residents to take around our neighbourhoods. In the words neighbourhood and to organise regular opportunities to talk to their local teams. In of Supt Amy Clements, LPA Commander Understanding the neighbourhood meetings with residents. The Forum addition to the Forums, this could be at one for Chiltern & South Bucks “underestimate policing jigsaw provides a platform to fulfil this obligation. of the monthly ‘Have Your Say’ meetings, them at your peril, they are our eyes and We are fortunate to live in an area of Neighbourhood Policing priorities are set at stalls held at events such as Village Fairs, ears within the community.” relatively low crime rates. But what should at quarterly meetings. Beforehand, top or even stopping and having a chat in the Neighbourhood Policing can draw in we do when things go wrong? When we concerns of residents are canvassed through street. turn on specialised resources. PC Claire have a particular concern? When we feel an online survey. All residents are welcome The Chesham Neighbourhood Policing Annison, Schools & Youth Engagement unsafe? to participate and vote at the meetings. team also covers the villages to the north Officer for Chiltern and South Bucks, For questions relating to law and order, The meetings are also an opportunity and west of the town and comprises a has addressed the Forum. For our next then clearly the Police are the first port for interesting and frank exchange of sergeant, two constables and three PCSOs. meeting, we expect to welcome Inspector of call. But beyond calling 999 for urgent information about policing and concerns – They hold ‘Have Your Say’ sessions from James Ellis, and learn of the work of the assistance, how confident are you that your occasionally very frank! 11am to noon on the first Saturday of problem-solving team, based at Amersham. concerns will be taken into account? Are Burglary and Drug Dealing have each month at the Clock Tower in Market Specialised Burglary teams work on the Police too stretched after 10 years of consistently been voted top three priorities. Square. Last December one of the Police detection and crime solving, while the reducing numbers? Do you see sufficient Over the past year, with flat or almost flat Constables held a session at Cholesbury Neighbourhood team’s role is centred on local Police presence? Have you questions burglary numbers, the Chiltern Local Police Village Hall. prevention. about ways of contacting the Police? Are

44 Hilltop News Hilltop News 45 The matrix extends also across Thames Valley Police, for example to force-wide Curvaceous Cook initiatives tackling rural crime. These are typically crimes involving farms and rural businesses. Rural Crime is one of the 22 priorities on which residents are asked to vote every quarter, and the Forum has a dedicated page on its website: https:// www.chilterncommunityforum.org/rural- V V V crime/ Another statutory linkage is with Council Community Safety Partnerships, which work 100 Club Quick and Easy Mushroom Stroganoff hand-in-glove with the Police and other I am trying hard to embrace the “eat less meat movement,” especially as my husband has to follow it for organisations and agencies. winners health reasons. The weekends are the worst for me as I just love the whole performance of a roast lunch, And then there is the Community and a plate of even my most favourite vegetables just doesn’t do it for me! However, I do love a stroganoff, Cholesbury Village Hall itself. The Forum encourages community and this pretty much fits the bill, especially when using lots of different sorts of mushrooms, which are now involvement and individual responsibility, February 2020 easily available everywhere. I always add in a few reconstituted dried porcini for the powerful punch they asking the question: “how can we as £15 Roger Hislop, Bellingdon deliver and use their strained rehydrating juice as stock instead of vegetable stock. citizens help make our community a better £10 Martin Lewis, Wigginton This recipe is for two people. place to be?” Volunteers play a vital role 1 tbsp oil, or, and I prefer it, butter in organisations such as Neighbourhood March 2020 Watch, Community Speedwatch and Street £25 Michael Joseph, St Leonards 1 medium onion, diced Associations. These all share with the Forum £15 Nicki Tullett, Buckland Common 4 cloves garlic, minced or grated finely the goal to encourage a stronger, more For membership, please contact resilient community. They welcome all Brigid Farmer on 758715, or email 500g (17 1/2 oz) mushrooms, any sort, preferably a mixture, sliced or diced, I prefer bigger chunks than residents as volunteers. [email protected] sliced, but up to you All are welcome to Chiltern Community 1 tsp smoked paprika. If you only have unsmoked it will be fine, but smoked delivers a much richer flavour Forum’s next meeting, at 6pm on Tuesday 26 May, at Chiltern Hills Academy, Chesham. St Leonards Parish Hall 70 ml (1/4 cup) vegetable stock. I use Marigold bouillon granules, or, new to me, the Knorr mushroom The surveys will be opened approximately stockpots, they have a fantastic flavour January 2020 two weeks prior to the meeting, and 2 tbsp sour cream publicised on the Forum’s website, through £25 Alanah Donnel, St Leonards social media, emails and via our partners £15 Anne Butterworth, St Leonards Salt £15 Marcus Reynolds, Bellingdon Thames Valley Police and the Community Black pepper Safety Partnership. If you would like to help, or to be placed on the Forum’s mailing list For membership, please contact 4 tbsp fresh parsley, some chives chopped, and lemon juice to serve Richard Leat on [email protected] or new WhatsApp group, please e-mail 1. Heat the oil/butter in a large frying pan or wok, and add the onion. Cook for a few minutes over a or 01494 758784. [email protected] medium heat, until slightly softened. Add the garlic and sliced mushrooms, and cook for a further 5 Robert Gibson, Chiltern Community Forum minutes, or until the mushrooms are thoroughly cooked. www.chilterncommunityforum.org V V V 2. Coat the mushrooms in the smoked paprika, then add the vegetable stock and sour cream. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for a few moments until sauce is smooth and silky. 3. Season well, sprinkle with lemon juice and parsley and chive mix and serve on rice or tagliatelle. I usually add some just cooked peas into the rice or toss some broccoli into the tagliatelle water for the last 3 minutes of cooking, to add a bit of colour. Lulu Stephen: [email protected]

46 Hilltop News Hilltop News 47 Don’t be afraid to ask for helping hands!

With over 850,000 people living with 24-hour care or companions who can visit dementia in the UK, and numbers set for a few hours each day. Ashridge Home Care provides specialist care services for to rise to over 1 million by 2025 (source a range of illnesses including Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s Society), Trudi Scrivener is Multiple Sclerosis, spinal injuries as well as a passionate believer that everyone can emergency care following an accident or remain at home surrounded by their loved fall. Carers are matched specifically to each client’s needs and provide continuity of care ones, friends, neighbours and pets for as enabling clients to stay at home knowing long as possible. Trudi runs Ashridge Home they are well looked after. Care which supports clients with all kinds To talk through your scenario or simply gain advice phone 01494 917344. You will of medical conditions and can also offer talk to a person, not a call centre, who will respite care so one half of a couple can pop get to know you and match the right carer. out leaving a family member in need of 24- Or visit www.ashridgehomecare.co.uk to hour help with a qualified carer. see the choices available. he is passionate about raising awareness of live-in home care as San alternative to residential care. Ashridge Home Care is only three years old but has collected several impressive awards in this period mainly due to the 30 years of experience and passion Trudi brings to the team. “Going into a residential care home is not the only answer, there is an alternative,” says Trudi. “Our approach to care means individuals living with a debilitating illness can stay at home with a beloved pet maybe, eat their favourite foods and keep life as normal as possible. But knowing that a specialist carer is popping in for a few hours to help keep on top of medicines, lend a hand with the shopping or to simply share a meal with, can make a world of difference.” Her team of experienced carers provide highly personalised care - be that live-in

48 Hilltop News Hilltop News 49 50 Hilltop News Hilltop News 51 Dear Diary (subject to change/cancellation)

April 2020

3rd Local History Group – St Leonards Parish Hall – 8pm

8th Pub Lunch Club – Full Moon – 12.30pm

20th WI – St Leonards Parish Hall – 8pm

27th Parish Council Meeting – St Leonards Parish Hall – 8pm

MAY 2020

3rd Cream Teas – Cholesbury Village Hall – 1.30pm

15th Local History Group – Cholesbury Village Hall – 7.30pm

16th Spring Fayre – H&C School

26th Chiltern Community Forum – Chiltern Hills Academy, Chesham – 6pm

June 2020

1st Annual Parish Meeting – St Leonards Parish Hall – 8pm

6th St Leonards Village Fete – 2pm

52 Hilltop News Hilltop News 53 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 15 May latest. Please note that photos sent online must be at least 2,500 x 1,750 pixels in size.

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