Tuesdays Short Mat Bowling 2.30pm Memorial Hall (2pm winter months) Ladies’ Fellowship 2.30pm 2nd Tuesday in the month (usually)

Wednesdays Volume 1 No. July 2006 6 2 Teme Valley Shufflers Line Dancing Editor: Andrew Chilvers (01905 641986) 7pm Martley Memorial Hall. Editorial Team: Martley: Alan Boon (01886 Enquiries: Jeff and Thelma 01886 821772 888527), Nellie Bradley (01886 888339), Kate Martley Folk Club: 1st Wednesday in the King (01886 888439), Beth Williams (01886 month at The Admiral Rodney 888273) Wichenford: Janet Andrews (01886 Martley WI: 2nd Wednesday in the 888303), Sheila Richards (01886 888378) month 7.30pm at Heaton House. Advertising: Neil Stammers (01886 888513)

Distribution: Martley George & June Lawrence (01886 821064) Wichenford Bill & Jo Root Thursdays (01886 888585) Wichenford Wine Club: 3rd Thursday in Contact The Villager: leave articles at Martley the month Post Office, call Janet or Sheila (Wichenford) or Martley & District Horticultural email the Editor at [email protected] Society: last Thursday in the month Opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily 7.30pm Martley Memorial Hall those of The Villager. The Villager cannot be held responsible for any goods or services advertised in the magazine Other events: Citizens Advice Bureau Teme Valley Telephone Service: Mon & Tue 10am— 3pm Thu 10am— 7.30pm Regular events in Martley & Surgeries: Weds 10am - and Wichenford: 4pm - by appt. 01584 810860

Sundays See Church Words for details of services 2nd Sunday in the month: Teme Valley Farmers Market for local See articles inside for details of special produce 11am The Talbot, Knightwick events AND changes of times or dates of Martley Ramblers meet Church car park regular events 3rd Sunday in the month: Walking Not Working with the Path-or- See the Diary page on Nones. Meet 9.30am Village Hall car park www.martley.org.uk for a complete listing to help survey the footpaths of all forthcoming events (that the Diary page Editor knows about) Mondays 1st Monday in the month: Martley Parish Council 8pm Memorial Hall

Articles to go in The Villager must be with the Editor by the 1st of the previous month

TheThe Villager Villager * *January July 2006 2006 9 OUT AND ABOUT IN MARTLEY Visit our website—www.martley.org.uk

Happy birthday potato Women and British colonial rule On July ended in Hong Kong on July 1 1997. 28, 1586 the potato Sitting first ar- Service rived in Peter’s Story from Co- “My husband had a stroke when he lumbia. was quite young. As an independent July itself couple we got on with life and I did was named the things he couldn’t manage, and after Ro- over the years we coped on our own. man dictator Julius Caesar, who was As time went on, however, things be- born on July 12. The Anglo Saxon came more difficult; my husband names for the month included Hey- would occasionally fall, and if I went monath or Maed monath, referring to out shopping I had to rush home be- haymaking and the flowering of mead- cause I worried that he might fall ows. again. I no longer enjoyed meeting my Also in July the curious phenomenon friend for lunch because I couldn’t of crop circles occurs when circular relax. flattened patches begin to appear in We were introduced to Worcestershire fields of standing corn. This dates Sitting Service, managed by Age Con- from the 1970s, although examples do cern Herefordshire & Worcestershire. occur earlier. Now everything has changed. A Sitter comes to our house each week, stays Weather lore – St Swithin’s Day and chats with my husband, and I usu- “If the first of July it be rainy weather ally go out shopping or have lunch T’will rain more or less for four weeks with my friend. together.” Having a Sitter has made a big differ- July 2 1928 saw equal voting rights for ence to both our lives. My husband

10 The Villager * July 2006 and the Sitter have so much in com- foul and mon, they get on so well and I no having to longer have to rush everything or play with worry about my him. These few hours just 10 men makes such a difference, please offer they even your time, so more people can bene- had a pen- fit.” alty appeal Worcestershire Sitting Service ask turned ordinary people, just like you, who down. They have a few hours to spare a week, fort- did, how- night or month to become Sitters. ever, battle on and even went ahead We need people who can go and sit when Steve Prickett scored and Chris with someone, keep him or her com- Collins equalised, but got past pany, so that the person who is usually the Spurs goalie, getting both a late at home with them can have free time. goal and the cup. This is often used to do a weekly Unfortunately, we still do not know shop, visit the hairdressers, attend a what will happen next season with medical appointment or catch up with regards to the various leagues as there friends. are so few teams making up the pre- If you read this and have a little time sent day leagues. to spare, and want to make a differ- Beth Williams ence to someone’s life, please contact Sue Abbott, or Miriam on: 01905- World Cup Memories 726652, 01386-422700, 01584- 819750 who will be happy to give you Football fever will have taken us over more information. as I write and, of course, we all hope England will do well. I never seem to Martley Spurs be at home when big finals take place and have some funny memories of The season is now over and our three England wins. I was in China when teams have not done badly; of course, England won the Rugby World Cup they have won some and lost some as final and in Rome when they won the all teams do. The Saturday Premier 1966 World Cup. I never actually side ended up third in their table while heard the famous “they think it’s all the Sunday Premier eleven and the over” commentary. Reserves lie neither at the top nor the There were few TV sets around in bottom of their tables. those days and in Milan, where I lived, Unfortunately, they lost their Martley cafes and bars turned into mini- Cup final against Powick by three cinemas when people went to watch goals to two. They lost Jon Barry what was on offer. But Rome did not when he was given a red card for a have the same viewing habits.

July 2006 * The Villager 11 My friends and I ran around a deserted nally won. I think the entire Italian Rome centre looking for somewhere to population of Toronto were on the air- see England play Germany. Every port tarmac to welcome that plane in. shop, bar and café was closed and we Beth Williams finally found a side street dairy that was open. The old lady behind the Martley Old Grammar counter told us to go to the Feltrinelli School Foundation book shop, which we rushed to. It was open but apparently empty, not even A reminder to students under the age an assistant behind the counter. There of 25 years who live or who have a was a bell on it which we pressed, and parent living in Martley, or who have an assistant ran out and said: “Come at any time attended as a pupil at on, hurry up”, and took us to a back school in Martley and who need finan- room packed to the rafters in front of a cial assistance for further education, to small black and white TV, with people apply for a grant application form. watching, cheering, shouting at the This also applies to corporate organi- referee, and of course, the commentary sations that may be eligible to obtain a was in Italian. grant. For information of an applica- I never saw the 1982 final, which Italy tion form, please contact Mrs C Pear- won by beating Germany, because I sall, Secretary MOGSF at Inglewood, was on board a jumbo jet above the Hillside, Martley, Worcester WR6 Atlantic Ocean. 6QW Tel: 01886-888793. The said jumbo had picked up passen- Cheryl Pearsall, secretary gers in Rome and Hamburg before taking off from Milan, and its passen- Pudford Lane gers were either German or Italian. Everyone wanted to know what was Summer has arrived at last (with some happening. The hostess said that the mini floods) and all inhabitants are crew had no time and could not really settling back awaiting long, lazy days. understand the BBC commentary, but If only that were so. The weeds are that I could go into the pilots’ cabin growing apace, outstripping the vege- and inform the passengers what was tables and the lawns are almost jun- going on. gles. This was great fun (and would cer- The verges have been lovely with tainly not be allowed today). There Queen Ann’s Lace and the Ramsons, was a big cheer from one side of the although the latter have been a little plane when I informed them that Italy smelly when the sun is on them. Par- had scored, but kept my mouth shut ent Greater Spotted Woodpeckers ap- when the Germans did, at least until peared to be feeding their offspring for the Italians had scored again and fi- an incredibly long time. So did the

12 The Villager * July 2006 pair of wagtails in the ivy beside the birdfeeders. In view of their voracious kitchen window. appetites for chrysalides and caterpil- It is nice to be able to go outside with- lars of all types, we fear that our Red out being shouted at. Marauding Admirals and Peacocks will be in pheasants gorge on the debris from the short supply again this year.

monument. The walk starts at 11am Pre-School Snippets from the bottom of Berrow Drive. There will be a BBQ and refresh- ments at the top, as well as refresh- ments half way up. We bid farewell to two members of staff this term. Chris Woodburn is retiring as Deputy Manager on July 20th. As some of you may know, Chris has been at Pre-School for an aston- ishing 20 years. She has seen many children come and go and even return with their own children! We wish Firstly, a big thank you to all those Chris all the best and know she will who helped sell programmes at Red now be able to enjoy her time with Marley in April. The organisers have her grandchildren. kindly donated £1,000 as a result of We have already said a sad farewell to our efforts. It is wonderful for a local Shena Chilvers, but only across the event to support a local school and we playground to the primary school. thank them for the opportunity. Shena was adored by children and Another thank you to Juliet Rush- parents alike and is already greatly grove, Chris Woodburn and Darrell missed. We wish her every success in Norgrove who gave their time to man her new position at the primary a lollipop and clown stall at the school school. fete. They raised £22.00. Both Chris and Shena have put so We hope you have all been busy get- much into pre-school over the years ting your sponsorship for Barby on and we cannot thank them enough. the Berrow on Sunday 2nd July. We welcome Lucy Albutt to the team; Even if you haven’t, with a minimum she will be moving to Martley in July. of £5 per family, you can still enjoy Look out for news of our second an- this fabulous family day out and a nual Five-a-Side football tourna- th unique opportunity to take in the ment to be held on the 17 Septem- breathtaking views from this historic ber on the playing fields…

July 2006 * The Villager 13 There are reports that the Black Beast our end up by coming second in the has been seen again in the Pudford competition for a ‘Feeling book’, Lane -Worcester Way area. So any made especially for visually impaired unwary walkers could find themselves children. Many thanks to all the mem- sharing a path. bers who worked so hard on the vari- Kate King ous items and to Eileen Stammers and Sheila who took them to for Martley Ramblers – judging. The summer outing will be on Satur- Sunday 9 July, 10am Church car day 29 July, to park Bridgnorth and back on the Severn Please note, this month we have a Railway Fish and chip special. Details slightly different format. We shall be regarding travel arrangements to Kid- leaving the car park at 10am for Han- derminster and costs etc from Sheila bury, to be led by Irene Walker. This Craker. Kate King is not an all day walk, but why not bring a picnic for after the walk has finished. It was felt, that if the weather is hot, it might be nicer to walk in the Thank you cooler morning. The two Paulines recently led us on a most enjoyable walk around the three Bs, Brockhampton, Bromyard Downs and Bringsty. Although most of us know some of these areas, others were quite new. The hedge jumping heifers on Bringsty were actually more fright- ened of us than we were of them. Kate King

Martley WI Martley Primary School would like Wednesday 12 July, 7.30pm to thank all those who took part in This month we shall be back at Heaton the summer fete, on Saturday, June House to hear Pauline Ford talking 17. about Turkey, the country, not the Parents, teachers, stall holders and bird. The competition is for a book- children had a great time on one of mark in any medium. Our co-operative the hottest days of the year so far. entry for the Spring Craft Show was The money raised will be invaluable not one of the winners, but came near to the school and the local commu- the top. However, Sheila Craker kept nity. Thanks again.

14 The Villager * July 2006 Treatment for dark The Manor of Martley under-eye circles In the days of the Confessor, Martley Grated potato can lighten and clear had been part of the appendage of dark under-eye circles. Run one po- Queen Edith, and at Doomsday was tato through your food processor and still retained by the King, although it stuff the raw mash into a piece of never acquired the title ‘Regis’. Hugh cheesecloth. Apply to the area directly Despencer held many offices under the beneath your eye – don’t let the potato crown and the family held many im- juice come into contact with the eye portant posts. itself – and leave for 15 to 20 minutes. The deed granting Geoffrey le Wipe away the starchy residue and Despencer the Manor of Martelegh you’ll find the dark circles will have was signed at Woodstock in 1234. gone. The family fell out of favour, and the (May I suggest you take out your con- new King, Edward III, conferred the tact lenses before you try this!) Manor to John Wyard in 1327. There was a lot of litigation between Lincolnshire South Federation WI the Despencers and Wyards, and clear Nellie Bradley ownership by the Wyards only came in 1393. An heiress of John Wyard Martley’s Past married a Roger Mortimer of Tedstone Wafer – a descendant of whom was On July 7 1896, the schoolmaster Sir Hugh Mortimer, who built the wrote, ‘F T…. and B G…. were church tower and whose effigy is in flogged this morning for truancy yes- the church. The Mortimers held the terday.’ Manor for about a century; latterly in On 13 July 1896 he wrote: ‘Miss Cur- female line. rie, of Laugherne House, called this In 1529 the Manor was sold to Wil- afternoon and invited the boys (56!) to liam Mucklow of Worcester, whose tea on Friday next.’ descendant sold it to Thomas Foley, 29 July 1896 he reported the Inspec- the great Stourbridge ironmaster in tor’s Report, one item of which was, 1670, who added it to his Witley Court ‘The attention of the Managers is di- Estate. rected to the recommendation of the The Foleys, and later the Wards, re- last report respecting the need of an tained the Manor of Martley as part of efficient teacher to assist the master.’ Witley Court Estate, much of which (Note, the number of boys present on was broken up as a result of The Great his visit was 58; with 65 being in reg- War. The Earl of Dudley, and later the isters.) Countess of Dudley, held the title until A L B its sale in 2001. A L B

July 2006 * The Villager 15 Translation of the Lord of the A letter from Indonesia Manor Deed I have lived in Indonesia for almost 20 Henry (by the grace of God, King of years and prior to that New Zealand England, Ireland, duke of Normandy and most of Southeast Asia. In all and Aquitaine, count of Anjou to his those years, I have worked in the oil archbishops, bishops, abbots… and gas business. barons…(etc, for various other sub- Years ago, I used to live at Hill Farm jects) greetings. Wichenford where my father farmed Know that we have granted to our and, in fact, my Grandfather farmed faithful servant Geoffrey le Despenser initially. I seem to recall my Grand (Galfridus Dispensarius) the Manor of father took over Hill Farm in 1901, Martelegh with the advowson of the according to date carvings on various church of the Manor and other appur- wooden gates. tenances, to hold freely all the mills, Although I spent a lot of time helping meadows, woods, ways, ponds etc etc, out on the farm, I was not really cut according to the custom of the Manor, out to be a farmer and decided I for the service owing to the King of a wanted to join the RAF, which I did in quarter of a knight’s fee. 1961, much to father’s disgust. Witnesses include: P Winton (bishop I am writing this note to you because of Winchester), Stephen de Segrave good friends of mine, Tony and Janet justiciar of England, J earl of ?, W earl Eggleton of Martley, suggested I of Albemarle, Hugh le Despenser, should check your Web site out. John son of Philip, Godfrey de ….., From that I came across many names Venerable R bishop of Chichester our that were familiar from the past. For chancellor example, I read about Janet and Peter No date visible at the end, or regal Andrews and many other people I year, but the context makes clear that knew in the past. Perhaps through your this is from the reign of Henry III. He magazine we can remake contact. abandoned the titles of count of Anjou I am wondering if some of your read- and duke of Normandy in 1259. ers would be interested in what life is Ralph Neville was bishop of Chiches- like in the tropics, if so I could put ter 1222-1244 and chancellor 1226- together some letters. 1240. Indonesia is a vast country and con- Stephen de Segrave was chief justiciar tains many different ethnic groups and 1232-1234 and possibly 1236-1241 different languages. The base language (when he died). is Bahasa Indonesian, which is not a So the document should be from the difficult language to learn. The people 1230s. are easy going and friendly, but also ALB very poor. The 0.5% that are rich are

16 The Villager * July 2006 mega rich and they like to show it. In apiaries, vis- fact they account for the largest for- iting eight in eign buyers of property in Singapore. all. The Bee We work hard here; my routine begins Inspectors, early morning at around 0410 and then both of I leave for work at 0530, not what you whom had might expect for the life of an expat... visited be- (Mike Townsend will be writing more fore, put eve- about his experiences in Indonesia in ryone at ease, next month’s Villager.) keeping things informal. The emphasis of the day was on furthering the edu- Knightwick and District cation of all our beekeepers, particu- Trefoil Guiiold larly on disease management. Each apiary had its different idiosyn- The May meeting was scheduled to be crasies and learning points, and as an evening playing croquet at Broad- much was learned from visiting other was, but due to the inclement weather members' hives as from having our we were forced to support the local own 'inspected'. The day culminated hostelry. Once the "business of the with a visit to Andrea Elting's two api- meeting" was dealt with and plans for aries followed by tea (of course)! a trip to Burford House, and Westons Since the safari, the weather has been Cider were made, we then partook of pretty awful for bees and keepers, so delicious sandwiches and bowls of our most recent apiary visits have been chips. postponed. However, the change in the Fourteen members enjoyed a relaxed weather has brought on some swarm- social time together. ing and activity is high again. Geraldine Cooper. The next meeting is on Saturday 15 July—as always new members are Thrift Shop very welcome. Sue Braithwaite - 01886 812888 Don't Forget Pensax Thrift Shop's an- nual charity day on Wednesday 12th Martley & District Horticul- July, in aid of the County Air Ambu- lance, please do come and support this tural Society worthy cause. The society’s Annual Plant sale was held at the Village Hall, but unfortu- Bee News nately due to the wet weather, there The Annual Bee Safari took place on was no Car Boot Sale on the playing May 6. The two Bee Inspectors each field. took a separate tour round different Thanks to everyone who donated

July 2006 * The Villager 17 plants and to all the people who helped drinks please. Walk from the bottom on the day. The event raised just over of Berrow Drive to the top of Berrow £400 (down on last year) for society Hill. funds. On Thursday 27 July there will be an Martley Parish Council evening visit to Mr & Mrs T Smith’s garden at Astley. Meet at Martley Vil- Meeting Monday June 5 lage Hall car park at 6.45pm. Present: Cllr. Mr. D. Cropp; Cllr. Mr. Have you collected your schedule for J. Slough; Cllr. Mrs. D. Goodyear; the Annual Show to be held on Satur- Cllr. Mr. M. Nott; Cllr. Mr. R. day 19 August in Martley Village Hall McHugh; Cllr. Mrs. M. Randall; Cllr and on the Playing Field? Mr. G. Coombey-Jones; Cllr. Mr. G. They can be obtained from Martley Taylor Post Office, Central Stores or a com- In Attendance: Mr. T. Pearsall (Clerk mittee member. Let’s have a record to The Parish Council), 12 members of number of entries this year! It is the the public. Society’s 30th Annual Show. Details in the August Villager. The Democratic Period/Public Question Time Barby on The Chairman invited all present to ask questions or make statements the Berrow about Parish business and the follow- Sunday 2nd July ing points were raised: 2006, 11am. A request was made that this Council A sponsored walk ask WCC Highways to erect some to the top of Ber- signs along Hillside to warn of pedes- row Hill, Martley trians. (min £5 per fam- A question was asked why it is taking ily). so long to arrange for the seat by the This is a fantastic opportunity to take Weighbridge. The Clerk explained the in the breathtaking views of our vil- requirements of Highways and said he lage and surrounding countryside. would follow it up. There will be a BBQ* at the top to- Another act of vandalism was re- gether with refreshments. All monies ported, this time a greenhouse was raised will go to Pre-School and the damaged at The Woodyard by a before and after school clubs. Every- thrown brick. The public was re- one welcome. minded that all such incidents should Sponsor forms available from the Vil- be reported to the Police. lage PO, Central Stores & Pre-School A question was raised about the use of *Hotdogs £1 each, donations for ASBO’s (Anti Social Behaviour Or-

18 The Villager * July 2006 ders), especially with reference to the man agreed to undertake this. recent incident at the Memorial Hall. The Chairman understood that The Clerk explained that that incident all three proposals in the MHDC Local was not being proceeded with on this Plan, commented on by this Council, occasion. had been supported by the inspector A question was asked why are there so counter to Development many weight limit signs; the Clerk to committee. These were: D e v e l o p - write to Highways. ment of the area of land behind The A question was asked with reference Crown (opposed by MPC), the devel- to Heaton House, why the kerbs which opment of The Old Orchard (opposed were removed to resurface the road, by MPC) and development of Taylors had not been replaced; the Clerk to Old Yard (supported by MPC). investigate with Highways. Resource Centre: There was an in- The Parish Council Meeting was spection on 15th. May by this Council opened by the Chairman at 8:25 pm. and it was determined that the building Apologies: Apologies were received would be suitable to house the Re- from Cllr. Mr. N. Stammers, these source Centre equipment. were accepted. The Clerk was instructed to write to Declarations of Personal or Prejudi- Community First to determine if funds cial Interests: The Clerk reminded were available to enable this; the tem- everyone of the need to declare inter- porary housing at the library is unsuit- ests and to keep their list up to date. able in the long term, because the Cllr. Mr. G. Taylor declared a prejudi- space is needed for more book shelves cial interest in agenda item 12 Plan- and out of hours access is difficult. ning (specifically Application Laugherne Valley Travel: It was re- 05/01885/FUL resubmission of). ported that the evening service is now Minutes of the last meeting held on much less flexible in dropping passen- 8th. May. April 2006: It was resolved gers at their requested locations and, to accept the minutes as a true record. consequently, previous passengers are Cllr. Mr. G. Coombey-Jones agreed reconsidering other options. Should that it had not been the intention to this loss be substantial then the service exclude Cllr. Mr. G. Taylor from the may become unsustainable. The very finance committee and requested a reason for its success was flexibility. future agenda item to resolve this. The Clerk was instructed to write to Heaton House: The number of empty the new bus company and ask why flats has now reduced and the matter their drivers were inflexible. resolved. District Councillor’s Report: Dis- Local Plan: The Clerk requested that trict Cllr. Mrs. B. Williams said that the Parish Plan committee be driven there is a development meeting on 6th. by one of the councillors; The Chair- June to discuss the adoption of Local

July 2006 * The Villager 19 Plan. She reminded the meeting that ing; reply to my letter. planning application could now be 14. CPRE: News letter. viewed on the MHDC web site. 15. Community First: Newsline plus County Councillor’s Report:County others. Councillor Mr. A. Davies said that the 16. Email from WCALC: re de- were going for a struction of meeting notes judicial review on the proposed merg- Planning: ers and a review of the Regional Spa- .. Applications received: tial Strategy was being undertaken. 1. . 06/00660/FUL Lime Cot- tage Hipplecote; replmnt. Dwelling, Correspondence: Cllr.G. Taylor. Correspondence for 5th. June 2006. 2. 06/00738/FUL The Tegs Pud- 1. Charter 88: Campaign for local ford Lane; single story extn. To pro- democracy, includes opportunity to vide 2 bedrooms and bathroom; Cllr.J. sign up to early day motion. Slough 2. MHDC: Local Plan, inspectors 3. 06/00629/FUL Hill House report(available at MHDC website) Laugherne Park; conversion of garage, two copies. Cllr. D. Cropp. 3. WCALC: Notice of Annual 4. 06/00674/FUL Sandyfields, Meeting (Thurs 8th. June Priory Kingswood Lane; Prop. Agri workers Lodge.) dwelling to repl. Mobile home; Cllr. 4. CPRE: Spring newsletter. D. Cropp. 5. WCC: Worcestershire Children 5. 06/00664/FUL Tarragon Ber- and Young Peoples Plan response by row Green Rd.; conservatory extn.; 9th. June (received 1st. June) . Cllr. G. Coombey-Jones (Cllr. Mr. G. 6. FWAG: News letter. Taylor left the room whilst this was 7. HM Revenue & Customs: discussed) Martley Parish Council gratuity 6. 06/00667/FUL Pasmead, St. scheme. Peters Drive; Kitchen extn & conver- 8. & Malvern Hills sion of garage, Cllr.G. Coombey-Jones Geopark:n News letter.. 9. MHDC: Exec committee min- Applications Approved/Refused/ utes ref. 22nd. May. Withdrawn: 10. MHDC: Exec committee agenda 1. 06/00102/FUL Row End Ber- 30th. May. row Green Rd. Approved 11. MHDC: The Council Plan. 2. 06/00514/FUL Jury Lodge Jury 12. MHDC: Pre committee visit Lane Approved (Northern Area Devel Control) ref. 3. 06/00201/FUL Willow Cottage The Tee Farm. Willow Green Approved 13. WCC Highways: School cross- 4. 06/00492/FUL The Cottage Jury

20 The Villager * July 2006 Lane Withdrawn plain to the parishioners what are the Other items: Notice of MHDC Pre advantages of a Quality Parish Coun- committee visit to Tee Farm 6th. June. cil. 6. The Clerk to request the Finance: There were 5 cheques total- Lengthman to trim the hedge along- ling £1150.37 for agreement and sig- side the foot path from the Hall to the nature Remedial School. Income April 06: £350.00 7. An agenda item was requested Current Bank Balance Lloyds TSB to consider the proliferation of 19th. May 2006 £7382.03 road signs in the parish. Actual position 5th. June 2006 £6396.35 Date and Time of Next Meeting: Deposit Acc The next meeting is on Monday 3rd.. £7308.60 July 2006 at 8 p.m. (Finance commit- It was resolved to adopt the finances. tee at 7:30 p.m.). Meeting closed at 22:35 hrs. Parish Paths Warden Report: Addendum 1 The report was read out and is at- tached as addendum 1 Parish Paths Warden’s Report Urgent Decisions since last meeting: May 2006 There was none. An extremely wet day with a good turn out, although one or two sloped Councillors Reports and Items for off early (in a good cause) Future Agendas: 1. An agenda item is required to Clearance work – Some stiles (at discuss dog fouling on the green in roadside) – more to be cleared in the Nash Close. next two weeks; 2. The caravans at Hollins Lane off B4197 by Mr Farmer’s) 200m are still occupied, The Clerk to follow cleared, but the encroachment of spill up with MHDC enforcement. from neighbouring landfill etc needs 3. The grass cutting at Heaton resolution by County House is not being completed and a Kirby’s lands South of the church, past BT van is parking in the parking areas VE seat (725, 726, 728) where these for the residents, The Clerk to write to are field edge Elgar Housing. Ditch crossing on 728 (path off lane 4. The are several pot holes down below Lower Hollings) destroyed by Ankerdine Hill; the Clerk to write to ditch diggers--need to replace Highways. Behind church across towards 5. It was requested that an article Laugherne Park (719/720/ 724) 350m be prepared for The Villager to ex- South of Upper Hollins (750 100m).

July 2006 * The Villager 21 To: 8 July 2006

Events in July Witley Court Event - Romeo & Juliet Venue: Witley Court E-Mail: NT Event Croome Park - Bat Walk Phone: 01299 896636 Venue: Croome Park Website: http://tinyurl.co.uk/q7b2 Phone: 01905 371006 From: 5 July 2006 Website: http://tinyurl.co.uk/pci0 To: 6 July 2006 From: 1 July 2006 Ledbury Poetry Festival - To: 1 July 2006 Venue: Ledbury Phone: 0845 458 1743 Hill Climb - Invited Website: http://www.poetry- championships & Vintage meeting festival.com/ Venue: Shelsley Walsh From: 7 July 2006 E-Mail: To: 16 July 2006 Phone: 01886 812211 Website: http://www.shelsley- Antiques Fair - walsh.co.uk/2006.htm Venue: Three Counties Showground From: 1 July 2006 E-Mail: [email protected] To: 2 July 2006 Phone: 01636 702326 Website: http:// Witley Court Event - Witley www.dmgantiquefairs.com Victorian Weekend From: 9 July 2006 Venue: To: 9 July 2006 E-Mail: Phone: 01299 896636 Upton Blues Festival - Website: http://tinyurl.co.uk/q7b2 Venue: Upton Upon Severn From: 1 July 2006 E-Mail: To: 2 July 2006 [email protected] Phone: 01684 592146 Musical - Cole Porter's Anything Website: http:// Goes www.uptonbluesfestival.org.uk Venue: Malvern Theatres From: 14 July 2006 E-Mail: To: 16 July 2006 Phone: 01684 892277 Website: http://www.malvern- Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb - Mem- theatres.co.uk ber’s Competition Day & Classic From: 3 July 2006 Meeting

22 The Villager * July 2006 Venue: Shelsley Walsh Phone: 01886 812211 Eastnor: Garden Games & Knight's Website: http://www.shelsley- Maze Challenge - walsh.co.uk/2006.htm Venue: Eastnor Castle, nr. Ledbury From: 15 July 2006 Phone: 01531 633160 To: 16 July 2006 Website: http:// www.eastnorcastle.com NT Event Croome Park - History & 23 July 2006 Archaeology Weekend Venue: Croome Park Malvern in Bloom Judging Day - Phone: 01905 371006 Heart of England Judges inspect Pri- Website: http://tinyurl.co.uk/pci0 ory & Chase Wards From: 15 July 2006 Venue: Malvern To: 16 July 2006 Phone: 01684 566667 From: 26 July 2006 Priory Organ Recital - To: 26 July 2006 Angelo Castaldo Venue: Priory Arab Horse Show - E-Mail: Venue: Three Counties Showground Phone: 01684 892289 Phone: 01672 520782 Website: http:// Website: http:// www.malvernprioryorgan.org.uk www.arabhorsesociety.org.uk From: 15 July 2006 From: 27 July 2006 To: 15 July 2006 To: 29 July 2006

Witley Court Event - The Railway Welland Steam Rally - Children Venue: Woodside Farm, Welland Venue: Witley Court E-Mail: Phone: 01299 896636 Phone: 01531 890417 Website: http://tinyurl.co.uk/q7b2 Website: From: 20 July 2006 From: 28 July 2006 To: 21 July 2006 To: 30 July 2006

Concert - CBSO: Here Come the Eastnor: Children's Bug Hunts & Proms! conducted by Carl Davis Nature Trails - Venue: Malvern Theatres Venue: Eastnor Castle, nr. Ledbury Phone: 01684 892277 Phone: 01531 633160 Website: http://www.malvern- Website: http:// theatres.co.uk www.eastnorcastle.com 22 July 2006 30 July 2006

July 2006 * The Villager 23 Over the Garden Wall in Wichenford

WICHENFORD NEEDS YOUR NEWS Janet Andrews Wichenford Fete 01886 888303 This year the fete is to be held on Sheila Richards Saturday 29 July at 2pm. Do 01886 888378 come and enjoy the many stalls and sideshows. If you have any items member of the Nora Parsons Day Cen- that we can sell, please let us know on tre and is sadly missed. We send our 01886-888303. We can collect. deepest sympathy to her sons Harold, Denis and Terry and to their families. Wichenford 100 Club May winner: Bella Kemp Rob- Marion Fidoe – 1920-2006-06-02. erts. Ticket 62. £108 It is with regret that I have to an- nounce the death of my Mother, Mrs Marion Fidoe on 3 May 2006. She Millennium green tidying formerly lived at Tillshots, Wants and inspection rota Green. She passed away peacefully at July: Mark Andrews Redhill Nursing Home, London Road, Worcester. She is sadly missed by family and friends. Congratulations A E Fidoe (01886-821466) Heartiest congratulations to Mr & Mrs Higgins who have become great Flower Rota grandparents. Mr & Mrs Higgins have been married for 61 years, and we 2 July Mrs Andrews send them our best wishes for many 9 July Mrs Richards more happy years. 16 July Mrs Whyatt 23 July Mrs A Banks In memoriam 30 July No Service Ivy Smith—We are so sorry that Ivy PCC Meeting has died, she had lived in Wichenford for nearly 50 years. Ivy was a popular The next meeting of the PCC is to be held on 10 July in the Memorial Hall

24 The Villager * July 2006 at 7.45pm. David and Heather are hoping that the arrival of the UN peace keepers in the Thank you area will make travelling safer. Much work needs to be done at Lui. Thank you everyone who supported The war in Sudan is officially ended Pam & George by buying compost but many young soldiers are still won- recently at their sale in aid of the dering around, unpaid, hungry and still Church spire repairs. A final sum of armed. They need to return to normal £200 will have been made when the society, but in a country where last few bags go. drought continues, the greatest threat is still famine and disease. Violet Wilby Memorial Despite all this, David and Heather are Music Award optimistic about the future. As they say: "The Lord travels with us." Applications are invited for the Violet I don't suppose there are many of us Wilby Memorial Music Award. Appli- who would want to swap rural cants must be at school or college, re- Worcestershire for the Sudan, but as a side in the Parish of Wichenford and Benefice we are proud to support this be studying music in one form or an- remarkable couple through financial other. Letters of application should be giving and prayer. sent to Mrs C Wetherall, Abingdon If you would like to know more and Cottage, Wichenford WR6 6XY be- receive the latest news, please contact: fore the closing date of 10 July 2006. Doug Whittaker 01886 833897 or David Sherwin 01886 888664

Benefice Mission, Sudan. David and Heather Sharland have now returned to Africa after a well earned Firewood rest in England during which time they Cordwood visited us at . Hardwood cordwood for collection Their journey took them first back to in Wichenford for £25 a cord. Local Uganda where they met up with old delivery by arrangement at cost. friends and assessed the difficulty of returning to their African home in the Hardwood logs village of Lui, Southern Sudan. at £50 a pickup load. Local delivery The road through Uganda to Sudan is by arrangement at cost. still very dangerous with members of Poplar and willow for wood burners the "Lord's Revolutionary Army" at also available. large and ready to ambush travellers, Telephone 0777 186 7961 either robbing them or worse.

July 2006 * The Villager 25 Church Words The Rectory 01886 888664

based upon documents that were writ- We recently had an overseas visitor to ten later than the gospel material in- St. Mary Magdalene Broadwas. As we cluded in the Bible. These documents were leaving a service they came in, as were questioned as to their reliability many visitors do. The surprise came even by the early Church, hence they when they said that they were visiting did not make it into the canon of scrip- the church, because they had, ‘read the ture we call the New Testament. book’. The Bible perhaps? No, The Whilst training at theological college, Davinci Code! we were encouraged to ‘critically’ The bestselling book, and now movie, study scripture, looking at the dates has certainly caused a stir, I have had author and context into which it was many a conversation about my opinion written. This process has been going of the book. It has, I am told, made on since the reformation and enlight- some people question the ‘facts’ of enment period. I found that my faith In their faith and the reliability of the Christ was strengthened, rather than scriptures it is based upon. I think this weakened, as I examined the scrip- highlights the need for us to search the tures in detail. scriptures and understand our faith in As a thriller, it is a bestseller, but it has Jesus. a long way to go to beat the best seller The claims made by the Da Vinci code it questions, The Bible. The claims of are that Jesus was not divine, that he which stand the tests of time, that Je- got married to Mary Magdalene, they sus is the Son of God, who died rose had a daughter called Sarah, whose again and ascended into heaven. Leav- descendants became Kings and queens ing his church to preach the good news of France, and Constantine proposed of the Kingdom of God, an open Gos- that Jesus be upgraded to a deity at the pel for all, not hidden secrets for the council of Nicea in 325AD. Not only chosen few. have Christian scholars repudiated Thank you these claims, but even TV pro- Everyone who helped make the St. grammes have exposed flaws and er- Peter’s Spring fayre a success, despite rors. the rain. Your gifts, donations, time Whilst I have not the space to go into and energy were appreciated. We hope detail here, I must say that some of the all who came enjoyed themselves, claims made by the Da Vinci code are people and their pets. Rev David Sher-

26 The Villager * July 2006

Church diary for July 30 June - 2 July WARM weekend, Top Barn Farm, Holt Heath Renewal … the call to transformational Leadership Speaker: Canon George Kovoor Saturday 1 July 9-10.30am Benefice Prayer Group, St Peter Martley 2.00pm Fete Sunday 2 July 8.00am Holy Communion, Knightwick Chapel 9.30am Holy Communion, St Laurence, Wichenford 11.00am Family Worship, St Peter, Martley 11.00am Morning Worship, St Mary Magdalene, Broadwas 6.30pm Evensong, St Leonard, Cotheridge 6.30pm Youth Service, St Peter, Martley Monday 3 July 9.00am Morning Prayer, St Laurence, Wichenford Tuesday 4 July 10.00am Holy Communion, St Mary Magdalene, Broadwas Thursday 6 July 1.30 Pastoral Care Meeting at the home of Sue Ganderton Sunday 9 July 8.00am Holy Communion, St Leonard, Cotheridge 10.00am Family Worship, St Laurence, Wichenford 11.00am Holy Communion, St Peter, Martley 11.00am Morning Prayer, St Mary Magdalene, Broadwas 6.30pm Songs of Praise Top Ten, St Mary Magdalene, Broadwas Monday 10 July 8.30am Prayer Breakfast at The Rectory 7.45pm Wichenford PCC, Memorial Hall Tuesday 11 July 7.30pm LTV PCC at Knightwick Wednesday 12 July 10.15am Holy Communion, Heaton House Thursday 13 July 2.00pm Little Minnows – picnic Saturday 15 July Organ recital concert with Liam Cartwright St. Leonard’s Cotheridge 7.30pm Sunday 16 July 8.00am Holy Communion, St Peter Martley 9.00am Matins, St Leonard, Cotheridge 11.00am Holy Communion, St Mary Magdalene, Broadwas 11.00am Morning Worship, St Peter Martley 3.00pm Evening Worship, Knightwick Chapel 6.30pm Evensong, St Laurence, Wichenford Monday 17 July 9.00am Morning Prayer, St Peter, Martley 7.30pm Wardens Meeting at The Rectory Tuesday 18 July 10.00am Holy Communion, St Mary Magdalene, Broadwas Wednesday 19 July 2.00pm Martley Primary School Leavers Service, St Peter’s Martley (Continued on page 28)

July 2006 * The Villager 27 shoot tips from June to early July. Biennials, such as foxgloves, sweet In the Garden williams, Canterbury bells and forget- me-nots, should be sown as soon as fresh seed is available. Pests and diseases Use a forceful jet from a garden hose to knock aphids off water lilies and Trim clematis other garden plants. Spray roses to Trim Clematis montana if large and protect them against problems with overgrown. mildew, blackspot or rust. Prune flowers Divide bearded iris Pinch out the growing tips of basket Lift and divide bearded irises once and container plants to encourage they have finished flowering. Remove them to produce bushy even growth any dormant sections from the centre and lots of flowers.Encourage chry- of the clump and replant the fresh new santhemum shoots to branch out and shoots. carry more blooms by pinching out

Church diary for July Thursday 20 July 9.00am Broadwas School Leavers Service, St Mary Magda- lene, Broadwas Saturday 22 July Cheese and Puddings at Westwinds, Little green, Broadwas 6.30pm Sunday 23 July 8.00am Holy Communion, St Mary Magdalene, Broadwas 9.30am Holy Communion, St Peter Martley 11.00am Family Worship, St Mary Magdalene, Broadwas 11.00am Holy Communion, St Laurence, Wichenford 6.30pm Evening Worship, St Peter Martley Monday 24 July 9.00am Morning Prayer, St Mary Magdalene, Broadwas Tuesday 25 July 4.30pm Evening Prayer at St Johns Parish Church Wednesday 26 July 10.15am, Holy Communion, Heaton House Thursday 27 July 12.00 Martley Mother’s Union at the home of Muriel Coombe Saturday 29 July 2.00pm Wichenford Village Fete Sunday 30 July 11.00am – 1.30pm: The big-little Church Event in Severn Hall at the Three Counties Showground Led by Revd Rob Barlow Monday 31 July 9.00am Morning Prayer, St Leonard Cotheridge

28 The Villager * July 2006 Village Contacts

Editor of The Andrew Chilvers Villager [email protected] or 01905 641986 or leave articles at the Martley Post Office Advertise in The Neil Stammers Villager [email protected] om or 01886 888513 Church Rector: Revd David Sherwin—01886 888664 Curate: Revd Jennifer Whittaker—01886 833897 Martley Website [email protected]

Martley Parish Chair: Dave Cropp—01886 Council 888398; Clerk: Tom Pearsall—01886 888256 Martley WI Gwynn Darby—01886 888490 Martley & Dist Pam Minchin—01886 Hort. Soc. 888521 or Margaret Jackson—01886 888654 Royal British Joyce Tyler—01886 Legion 821551

Martley Harry King—01886 888439 Ramblers

Wichenford Janet Andrews—01886 contacts for The 888303, Sheila Richards— Villager 01886 888378

Resource Centre Alan Boon—01886 888527

Kenswick & Clerk—Shirley Sanders Wichenford 01886 888302 Parish Counl.

Wichenford Secretary—Mike Holmes Wine Club 01905 641739

Trefoil Guild geraldine.cooper@btopenw orld.com

July 2006 * The Villager 29