The Villager

April 2020

Sherbornes and Pamber 1 04412_Villager_July2012:19191_Villager_Oct07 2/7/12 17:08 Page 40

2 “Lockdown” the Villager CONTACTS Yes there is fear. their neighbours in a new way Yes there is isolation. All over the world people are waking up to Yes there is panic buying. a new reality Editor: Yes there is sickness. To how big we really are. Julie Crawley Yes there is even death. To how little control we really have. 01256 851003 To what really matters. [email protected] But, To Love.

They say that in Wuhan after so many years So we pray and we remember that Advertisements: of noise Yes there is fear. Emma Foreman You can hear the birds again. But there does not have to be hate. They say that after just a few weeks of quiet Yes there is isolation. 01256 889215/07747 015494 The sky is no longer thick with fumes But there does not have to be loneliness. [email protected] But blue and grey and clear. Yes there is panic buying. But there does not have to be meanness. Distribution: They say that in the streets of Assisi Yes there is sickness. People are singing to each other But there does not have to be disease of the George Rust across the empty squares, soul 01256 850413 keeping their windows open Yes there is even death. [email protected] so that those who are alone But there can always be a rebirth of love. may hear the sounds of family around them. Wake to the choices you make as to how to live now. Future Events: They say that a hotel in the West of Ireland Lindsay Berry Is offering free meals and delivery to the Today, breathe. 01256 850495 housebound. Listen, behind the factory noises of your [email protected] panic Today a young woman I know The birds are singing again is busy spreading fliers with her number The sky is clearing, Pamber Correspondent: through the neighbourhood Spring is coming, Ann Ellis So that the elders may have someone to call And we are always encompassed by Love. [email protected] on. Open the windows of your soul Today Churches, Synagogues, Mosques and And though you may not be able Temples to touch across the empty square, are preparing to welcome Sing. and shelter the homeless, the sick, the weary Fr. Richard Hendrick, OFM All over the world people are slowing down Contents and reflecting March 13th 2020” All over the world people are looking at Contacts 4

Do you need help with your shopping, getting to medical appointments, or are feeling isolated and would like a neighbour in the village to phone you for a friendly chat? Also Church Services 5 if you are unable to walk your dog…….. There are some lovely, compassionate local people who are happy to help you Send me your name and phone number and I will put you in touch with them. Parish Council Reports 9, 10 Julie (The Editor) 01256 851003

Whilst we are happy to publish items and opinions in this magazine it should be Schools 19, 22 noted that the views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily endorsed by the Editorial team. Readers should also make their own enquiries about, and assessment of, claims and services made by advertisers in this magazine. Local Events & issues

Contact us at [email protected] 13, 23, 26, 27

Bert’s Blog 25 3 Contacts CHURCH OF ENGLAND Rev Daniel Newman [email protected] 541607 ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH The Presbytery, Popley Way, Basingstoke 819722 BASINGSTOKE COMMUNITY CHURCH Sarum Hill Centre, Basingstoke 316000 CLERKS TO PARISH COUNCILS SSJ Mrs Penny Mayo [email protected] 07714 770940 MS Mrs Cally Morris [email protected] 07721 076186 Pamber Mrs Leonie Browne [email protected] 07920 787170 BOROUGH COUNCILLOR for SSJ Mr Tristan Robinson 07817 131821 BOROUGH COUNCILLOR for Pamber Mr. Roger Gardiner, Nuthatch, The Glen, Pamber Heath 01189 701109 BASINGSTOKE & DEANE BOROUGH COUNCIL Civic Offices, London Road, Basingstoke 844844 HAMPSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL The Castle, Winchester 0300 555 1375 HAMPSHIRE POLICE Non-emergency 101 or 01962 841534 www.hampshire.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime PCSO LUKE EDWARDS [email protected] NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH [email protected] 850891 NEAREST JOB CENTRE https://www.jobcentrejobs.co.uk LOCAL GROUPS WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP Mrs Jenny Cullum (Secretary) 850315 RAINBOWS Laura Hawkins - [email protected] BROWNIES Tramayne Henwood - [email protected] 422083 GUIDES Sam Hazlewood - [email protected] 880132 CUBS Ms Trish Field 01420 544904 MOTHER AND TODDLER Mrs Barbara Irving 850173 SSJ SOCIAL CLUB Mr David Hughes (Steward) 850303 SSJ HISTORY SOCIETY Mrs Jean Linford 850264 TENNIS CLUB Paul & Maria Saunders 850430 SSJ RETIREMENT COFFEE MORNING Mrs Margaret Cramer 850390 SUMMIT JUDO CLUB Mr Len Dunce 07860 435 831 or Mr Paul Hamilton 07917 005862 YOGA in SSJ Village Hall Mrs Jacqui Morris 881336 SHORT MAT INDOORS BOWLS CLUB Mr Les Bone 850973 FOOTBALL CLUB Mr Terry Buller [email protected] 07584 169241 PICCOLO PRE-SCHOOL NURSERY Claudia or Jane [email protected] 07528 726248 www.piccolopsn.com THE VYNE HOUSE (National Trust) Mr Stuart Maughan 883858 VENUE BOOKINGS: St Stephen’s Hall Doreen Quilter [email protected] MS Village Hall Natasha Chappell [email protected] 01256 851373 07766 426080 SSJ Village Hall Shawna Campbell [email protected] 01256 889534 Caretaker 07500 776222 The Chute Pavilion Terry Buller [email protected] 07584 169241 & Penny Mayo [email protected] 07714 770 940 HEALTH CARE NORTH HANTS HOSPITALS NHS TRUST 01256 473202 HANTSDOC 01189 365592 BRAMBLYS GRANGE 467778 CHINEHAM SURGERY 479244 CROWN HEIGHTS MEDICAL CENTRE 329021 CLIFT SURGERY, BRAMLEY 881228 HOLMWOOD, TADLEY 01189 814166 ROOKSDOWN SURGERY 399710 MORELAND SURGERY 0118 9816661 EDUCATION THE PRIORY PRIMARY ACADEMY TRUST Mr Mike Stewart (Head teacher) 850062 SSJ PRIMARY SCHOOL Mrs Karen Payne (Head teacher) 850180 ST BEDE’S RC PRIMARY SCHOOL Mr Jamie Carroll 473379 PUBLIC SERVICES CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU 322814 BRITISH RAIL NATIONAL ENQUIRIES 0345 484950 BUS STATION (STAGECOACH) 0871 121 0190 LIBRARIES Basingstoke Town Centre 473901 Chineham Library 465643 Tadley Library 0300 555 1387 DIAL-A-RIDE Monday-Friday 8.30-12.00 am and 2.00-4.15 pm 01256 462101 If we have omitted any organisations, and/or their contact details, we apologise and would welcome any information to keep this list up to date and relevant Julie Crawley [email protected] 01256 851003 March 2020 4 CHURCH SERVICES FOR APRIL

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Coronavirus (COVID-19) NeighbourCare needs you! In light of Government guidance There are many bulletins being issued Could you help a neighbour in need? around non-essential contact, ALL ranging from accurate to misleading. Our volunteer drivers and befrienders public worship is suspended until help elderly local folk get to hospital Hampshire County Council continues further notice. appointments, the doctors or an exercise to adhere to national guidance as issued class or shopping trip. This keeps our We will livestream services from the by the NHS and Public Health England; ‘neighbours’ independent and healthy. Rectory on Sundays at 10am so that you we signpost people to the most up to We visit lonely and isolated older can join us from home. date information and advice and we ‘neighbours’ and share a cup of tea and have a dedicated web page to help you - Visit our website at https://swpchurch. a chat. If you have a few hours or more www.hants.gov.uk/coronavirus churchbuilder.org.uk or find us on to spare, we would love to hear from Facebook at facebook.com/swpchurch. Cllr Rhydian Vaughan MBE you. Why not contact us to find out Callveva Division more and find out how rewarding it is to Hampshire County Council volunteer. As one of our volunteers said Claiming Dates fb.com/tellrhydian recently “It’s good to feel you are helping Due To the Covid-19 Virus all events people to keep their independence”. in April may well be cancelled or NeighbourCare would be delighted to postponed until a future date. At the hear from you. time of going to press Government T: 01256 423855 E: info@ protocols have been changing on a daily neighbourcare.com V: www. basis so please check with the different neighbourcare.com or find us on organisations as to whether events are Facebook Reg.Charity 1154382 still running

St Andrew’s Sherborne St John All Saints Monk Sherborne The Priory Pamber End

https://swp.churchbuilder.org.uk

Sherborne St John Neighbourhood Watch

DOG POO The actions of a few discovered and of course if you witness very inconsiderate people cause a great the offence a description of owner, dog nuisance to many others right across the and any vehicle involved this will get us Borough and council officers advise they more attention from the Community will be conducting another campaign Patrol and Safety Officers. Please help against offenders. The Borough Council make SSJ a Poo Free Zone. have supplied us with a range of leaflets Now for our more usual subjects we and signs which will appear around the seem to have had a quiet spell but the village hopefully these will have some We now have a new beat officer PCSO police report for February has not yet effect. We are also expecting a few visits Luke Edwards who is very keen to been received. The spate of mindless from the Community Safety Patrol meet his area residents and attend breaking of windows during late last our meetings. Finally if you see any Officers and the more reports made year thankfully seems to have stopped suspicious vehicles or persons do please from our village the more attention short of SSJ, at least there have been no report to 101 and myself I will pass on we will get. Elsewhere I have seen reports since early January. to Luke and follow up. “professional” dog carers with several animals on leads but rarely do they visit We are moving on with issuing window the bins before leaving. One such person stickers etc to new members but any Ted Wilkinson. (S S J area co-ordinator for NHW) was seen at the Chute with 8 animals on other members may request these by leads. Report to 01256 844844 on ALL e.mailing me or one of the co-ordinators [email protected] or deposits found – location, date and time a new list will be on the village website. 01256 850891 5 Sherbornes with Pamber

I have just started reading The Lord of COVID-19 has shattered the illusion without limits. We see the result of that the Rings to my children. In chapter that through our technological in supermarket shelves stripped bare two, Gandalf the wizard tells Frodo the advances, we are able to control nature, and online delivery slots booked up hobbit that the Dark Lord Sauron is rather than being subject to it. We three weeks ahead, leaving the poorest, gathering strength again. constantly relate to the world through those with limited mobility, and those technology and the result is that we without internet access, with nothing. ‘I wish it need not have happened in my have become blind to the existence The apostle Paul writes: ‘You, my time,’ said Frodo. of anything outside of the world we brothers, were called to be free. But do ‘So do I,’ said Gandalf, ‘and so do all can experience through technology. not use your freedom to indulge the who live to see such times. But that is COVID-19 has opened our eyes to that sinful nature; rather, serve one another not for them to decide. All we have to reality again and is confronting us with in love. The entire law is summed decide is what to do with the time that is our own mortality. up in a single command: “Love your given us.’ neighbour as yourself”’ (Galatians 5.13). In a recent sermon, we considered We are set free to serve; we are liberated When I wrote last month’s article, I had the words of the apostle Paul: “It is to love. little idea that I would find myself, just for freedom that Christ has set us a couple of months after I arrived, as free” (Galatians 5.1). In our present The Government has advised that we all a parson in a pandemic. COVID-19 circumstances, we could end up increase social distancing measures to has now touched all of us in some way. becoming slaves to thinking that we reduce the transmission of coronavirus People are having to work from home. have to earn God’s approval by trying (COVID-19). In light of their latest Families have had to cancel long- to keep rules or being more religious. guidance, the Archbishops have advised anticipated holidays. Weddings have The result can be fear that we haven’t that public worship is suspended been postponed. Parishioners over a done enough. Paul writes: “But by faith until further notice. I will live-stream certain age or with underlying health we eagerly await through the Spirit services from the Rectory on Sundays conditions have decided not to attend the righteousness for which we hope.” at 10am. Please visit our website: services for the foreseeable future. Those Paul doesn’t use the word ‘hope’ in the https://swpchurch.churchbuilder.org. working in healthcare are under pressure way we do: “I hope I won’t get sick.” uk. Even though we are not meeting as they plan for contingencies and have Biblical hope is certainty about the together physically, we still want to the uncertainty of what they will face future. God became a human being in serve our community. If you are socially when they go back in for their next shift. the person of Jesus Christ and lived in distancing or self-isolating, please get My mother lives in Cyprus. She was perfect obedience to the law he gave in touch if you would like a chat on the planning to visit at the end of March. It human beings. As we remember on telephone or need someone to get food would have been her first opportunity to Good Friday and Easter Day, he bore or medication for you and leave it on see us in our new home and spend time the punishment for the way human your doorstep. with her grandchildren in a year, but she beings have broken that law when he We may well wish that COVID-19 need was not able to leave Cyprus. died on the cross, and he rose again, not have happened in our time, but what showing that death had been defeated. will you decide to do with the time that God counts those who trust in Christ is given you? Will you use it to make as righteous, as having kept the sure the future is something you eagerly requirements of his law. Ask a Christian await, and to serve one another? you know why they have peace despite COVID-19. Daniel Newman The freedom to which God calls us is Rector very different from the idea of freedom [email protected] that is widespread in our society, which Tel: 01256 541607 is the freedom to do as we choose

6 YOUR HOSPITAL NEEDS YOU

I am sorry to have to inform you that “The situation in Hampshire Hospitals 1 x Cardiac Telemetry Monitoring most of our Spring and Summer fund- (and throughout the UK) is constantly system for Acute Assessment Unit raising events have been cancelled evolving; at the time of writing we have and Ambulatory Care Unit. Allows due to the current circumstances, more seriously ill patients than our patients to move through the emergency including the Classic Car Rally and neighbouring organisations and are department (“ED”) more quickly and The Hampshire Country and Garden working extremely hard to prepare for to be monitored in the ambulatory care Festival. This will leave a large hole in more. The ability to fund equipment unit (“ACU”) - £39,290. funds available for the support we give. today and have it here expediently is Ironically, this comes at the moment our crucial. There is little doubt that we are 1 x Transthoracic Echo machine for hospitals need us the most. going to need these resources to save lives. Acute Cardiology Unit – This machine This scenario may last some time, the would allow Andover Hospital to You have been so generous in the sooner we can scale up for our response perform cardiac echo scans on Covid-19 past making Basingstoke, Winchester the better” - patients rather than transfer them and Andover Hospitals what they are to Basingstoke or Winchester hospitals, today. At this critical moment as we Tim Nedas, Consultant Urologist MB as the Andover hospital machine has teeter on the brink, our doctors, nurses BS FRCS at Hampshire Hospitals recently broken. £37,000. and health care workers are about to dig Foundation Trust deeper than they ever have before to The hospitals’ needs are shifting 1 x Airvo 2 Optiflow System for keep our community safe. We are now on a daily basis, but right now Children’s Ward - This piece of asking you to dig deeper in order to they desperately need your help to buy:- equipment is highly tuned to deliver help them with this massive task. humidified oxygen effectively to babies 3 x Mobile X-Ray Units – these will be The Hampshire Medical Fund has and children who are extremely unwell used specifically for Covid-19 patients always existed to buy medical equipment with respiratory infections. £2,475. meaning we reduce the risk of cross that falls outside the NHS funding contamination and maintain a safe level Emergency cleaning staff, and overtime remit whether this is because of time of care critically ill patients who do not costs - we would like to have the or cost. The below equipment list will have Covid-19. £165,000. (£55,000 each) discretion to pay for vital support staff, deliver, over the next weeks and months, in consultation with the CEO and CFO either life-changing or life-saving results 22 x Intensive care unit hospital beds – of our NHS Trust. £tbc and will give our medics the cutting high specification for use with ventilated edge resources they need to tackle the patients. £209,000. (£9,500 each) We are eternally grateful for the ongoing unprecedented situation we are all 14 x Intensive care unit hospital support of all our incredible Hampshire facing. This is our big moment, and we beds – lower specification for use by Medical Fund supporters, please do must make a significant contribution. critically ill patients not yet requiring forward this plea to anyone in Hampshire The government has ventilation. £70,000. (£5,000 each) who might also be able to help and please made extensive public funding once again accept our heartfelt thanks as 1 x Maldi – tof Microbiology machine promises and has started to release we ask you to dig deeper… – identifies organisms that present detailed guidance, but we still await an MRSA risk amongst other key Please go to details on what will be funded, how pathogens informing infection https://www.hampshiremedicalfund.org and by when. Therefore, at this point prevention and operational decisions each NHS funded purchase is creating or send your donation to the Hampshire across all three hospitals. £164,203. financial uncertainty, which is limiting Medical Fund bank account :- the hospital’s ability to buy more than 2 x Sara Combilizer – allows Hampshire Medical Fund the absolute essentials to combat Covid - severely immobile patients to begin Ref - Dig Deeper 19. Some of this equipment is on lead rehabilitation whilst still on a ventilator Sort code – 30-90-53 times of several weeks, it must be allowing earlier discharge. £25,990 ordered and paid for right now. (£12,995 each). Account number 00770720 So please dig deeper, if we order the 1 x MRI Ventilator and monitoring Please take care of yourselves, and thank equipment that we know to be currently system for Critical Care and Intensive you for your support at this immensely available, some of it can be arriving at Care units – allows MRI scans to be challenging time. our hospitals within a matter of weeks performed on ventilating patients. £3,837. With very best wishes, rather than months. 1 x MRI Monitoring System for Peter G. Walsh Every penny counts … whatever Cardiology and Critical Care - allows Head of Fundraising you can give, your donation will be ‘stress’ MRI scans to be performed Hampshire Medical Fund used IMMEDIATELY to fund critical with continual monitoring for critical equipment for Basingstoke, Winchester Cardiac cases. This is not currently The charity buying tomorrow’s and Andover hospitals as they fight our possible in Basingstoke, Winchester medical equipment today, for battle against COVID-19. or Andover hospitals. £41,424. Hampshire Hospitals 7 04412_Villager_July2012:19191_Villager_Oct07 2/7/12 17:07 Page 11

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11 Pamber Green, Pamber End and Little London notes

What a confusing world we are living in concert on 4th April has been cancelled Reports have been received of a white at the moment. Brexit dominated the and it is possible the weekly rehearsals Transit van, registration ME03 LVT, news for many a long month, taken over may also be disrupted. The committee driving around in the early hours by the numerous horrendous storms are particularly concerned as many checking out properties. The driver that swept the country causing tragic of the singers are more elderly and, has been wearing a high vis vest to devastation to communities often more potentially, at risk. At the moment, try to look legitimate whilst having a than once. Now Corona Virus has taken the West Berks Rock Choir events and hood covering his face. Please report control in more ways than one. As I rehearsals are unaffected, helped by sightings to the Police. write, there is talk of over 70’s needing a younger age grouping. Two charity There are still no minutes for the to self isolate for their own protection, concerts remain viable currently. December 2019 Parish Council meeting European countries implementing The first is a one hour concert at on the website. However, January and draconian measures in an attempt to Brightwalton Church, north of Newbury February minutes are available and halt the onward march of the disease on 28th March, 7pm. Money raised include reports that the budget for St and panic buying to ludicrous levels. will be split between the village ASPIRE Stephen’s Hall would be increased from However, many local communities are project and the West Berks Rock Choir £500 to £2,500 which would cover setting up support groups to help elderly charity of Bucket List Wishes. Ticket both running costs and maintenance. and vulnerable people at this very price is £15 complete with a fish and Pamber Parish Council in conjunction difficult time. Let’s hope the UK soon chip supper and drink from the bar. The with Mortimer West End agreed to returns to stability and sanity. second is a VE Day concert, entitled the joint purchase of a speed indicator One constant is that Pamber Forest ‘Let’s Celebrate’, on Friday 8th May, 7pm, device, with each parish having equal continues to be very wet which has put St Mary’s Church, Thatcham. Included use of it. Parish gates are to be installed me off stepping in there. But, thank will be favourite wartime audience which should help reduce traffic speeds goodness, Spring is on the way. My participation songs. A free, advance and it is hoped that enhanced road magnolia is shooting, blossom is clearly ticket is necessary for this event due to markings will also be carried out. visible as you drive down the A340 venue size restrictions. Quotes for the repair of St Stephen’s Hall roof are being sought. The next between the Pambers and flowers are Pamber Folk and Acoustic Club scheduled meeting will be on 9th April appearing in the garden. A lovely sight continue to hold events with the at St Stephen’s Hall and the AGM will with so much gloom around and the next one scheduled for 3rd April lighter evenings due too! be on 11th May at Pamber Heath 2020, assuming Corona Virus doesn’t Memorial Hall. Local choir activity is already being intervene. It takes place at 7:30 pm in disrupted in the light of current health St Stephens Hall, Little London. Please Ann Ellis concerns. Tadley Singers scheduled support their efforts. [email protected]

ASTHMA UK AND BRITISH LUNG FOUNDATION BREATHE EASY PARTNERSHIP SUPPORT GROUP

News from BLF foods to help reassure us about healthy taught us some simple exercises we can eating. A good helping of common manage at home. It’s easy to feel down when suffering sense, eating a variety of foods including from a chronic illness. Check out blf. It was a busy day, tea break flew by with plenty of vegetables, sensible portion org.uk to find some uplifting blogs and sizes and occasional treats was the main people chatting to friends and adding vlogs from other people with chronic point. Advice for poor appetites, dry their names to lists for forthcoming lung conditions to see how they have mouths and other complications caused outings. improved their life and wellbeing. by our lung conditions was freely given; Next Meeting including how to enjoy our food. Local news You will be welcome to come along to Our February meeting was well Two ladies from the Respiratory Team The Shaftesbury Room, Christ Church, attended, we were happy to meet some from Southern Health NHS Foundation Reading Road, Chineham, RG24 8LT new members. Trust came along to meet our members. 2pm on Tuesday April 28th They will be giving talks and answering The guest speaker was Claire Gill, a questions throughout the year. Our guest speaker will be Peter Jones Macmillan dietitian. from Neighbourhood Care Trish, our friendly fitness instructor, Claire talked us through the minefield put us through ten minutes of chair Meetings are held on the last Tuesday of of misinformation about good and bad exercises. Using resistance bands Trish every month except December. 9 PARISH COUNCIL

Parish Council Elections HCC Men’s Health Lengths man Scheme There will be elections in May to appoint Group Initiative Just a reminder to let me know if there 5 Councillors for the next 4-year period. HCC has started a new group tasked with are any issues which need to be added to If you wish to stand for the Council encouraging better physical and mental their work schedule. please contact me or electoral.services@ health in men. Volunteers are needed basingstoke.gov.uk for information. Chute Recreation Ground to join this new group as raising men’s & Pavilion Parish Matters awareness of health and welfare issues is essential. If you could help please contact There has been some fly-tipping at the Unfortunately, there has been some me or [email protected] to Recreation ground so please let us know fly tipping around the Parish roads find out what is involved. if you see any suspicious vehicles. The and facilities, something which is Parish Council have asked the Parish increasing throughout Hampshire Roads/Footpaths Clerk to look into the cost of installing and which can only be stopped if we With the extreme weather conditions CCTV on the Pavilion. While the all take it seriously. So, if you see there has been problems with mud and Parish Council is still in the process of anything suspicious telephone the water on the roads especially on Cranes negotiations with the SSJ Tennis Club police, the Borough Council or e mail Road but Antlers Ltd are working very on rental of the courts the local school me with details of where, when and hard to ensure this is kept down. Please has signified that they would like to use hopefully vehicle registration numbers report problems to me and don’t enter them one morning a week for sports. - a photo on your mobile would be the building site as it is dangerous. The new pitch drainage will be started great!!! Let us stop these anti-social Problems on Manor Road with builders soon when the area will be cordoned people ruining our environment and leaving mud on road and paths has been off from the public. There are a couple remember if you arrange for rubbish to reported to BDBC enforcement team for of ‘taster’ sessions on Saturdays for a be removed by a contractor make sure fitness art called ‘Qigong’ !! you see their licence!! resolution. Finances The Bus Shelter at West End going Parents parking on Vyne Road when towards Tadley has been reported as in going to the Village school is still of Parish finances are good with enough to need of repair so I need to hear from major concern as it obstructs the road carry out all the projects agreed, with the residents using this stop so the Parish and blocks visibility on a very narrow Chute Recreation facilities generating Council can review the situation. road. Hampshire County Council are sufficient funds to ensure that all is kept contacting the school for an update on in good condition and repair. The Parish has a new PCSO, Luke plans to alleviate the problem. Edwards, so any problems please contact Don’t forget everyone is welcome to him via 101. Repairs to Vyne road and other roads attend the Parish Council’s monthly around should be completed in the next meetings so if you have any issues you VE Day 8th May Celebrations couple of months as weather conditions wish to raise please come along to the It is hoped that a VE celebration can have hampered contractors being able to Wednesday evening meeting or e mail be held in Sherborne St John with carry out the work. [email protected]. the new Rector and residents already Please continue to complain to the Nina from the Premier Shop/ Post discussing what could be arranged. County Council website to keep up the Office on Abbey Road has let us know However more people will be needed pressure to fix road problems. that they now are stocking a full if it is to be successful so please compliment of newpapers. contact me clerk@sherbornestjohn- Hampshire County Council are about to pc.gov.uk or Daniel Newman rector. make a decision on re-routing footpath Penny Mayo [email protected] if 502 so if you feel strongly please register you can help or have any ideas to make your objections with tara.pothecary@ the event special. hants.gov.uk.

10 Planning Applications received February2020

Application no Address Description of work Actions 19/03405/HSE 5 Watercress Erection of single storey rear No objection to the side extension although this Cottage Dark & side ext plus garage doors to is disappointing as it is a brand new property & Lane carport development. We do however object to the garage doors for the carport which will distract from the uniformity and character of the overall development 20/00285/HSE 10 Vyne Road Single storey rear ext , new No objections dormer to rear & vault bedroom ceiling in master bedroom 20/00282/LBC The Vyne Removal of picture rail south No objections bedroom, install 2 rails & redecoration of south & gallery bedroom 20/00248/FUL The Vyne Extensive outdoor works re No objections flooding, spillways, footbridge, brick flood wall, sewage pipe etc 20/00307/ Weybrook Farm Erection farm machinery store No objections AGPD 19/02470/FUL Bobs farm Amendments requested by See D Whitmarsh e mail No objections planning dept to original application 20/00128/PIP A340 Re 8 houses on Aldermaston PC already objecting on similar grounds to the Road previous PIP application Trees: T/00062/20/ 5 Vyne Meadows No objections TCA T/00086/20/ Recreation Remove white poplar No objections TCA Ground Chute T/00088/20/ Weybrook Replace fallen willow No objections DDD Willows

PARISH COUNCIL ELECTIONS MAY 2020 Parish Council elections have been postponed until next year 2021.

However there may be a need to co-op someone to the Council if any current Councillor does not wish to continue so if you are interested please contact the Parish Clerk [email protected] or telephone 0118 933 2379.

11 04412_Villager_July2012:19191_Villager_Oct07 2/7/12 17:07 Page 14

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Despite all of us wishing we had a shiny Basingstoke team recently received designed so that they can be operated new hospital, that is still some way off. the award for Learning Environment with either positive or negative air In the meantime the Hospital Trust is of the Year from the Royal College of pressure, so able to handle, both cases concentrating on the present facilities Emergency Medicine. This is a very of highly infectious patients, as well as and enhancing patient experience with prestigious award and recognises the those who need to be protected from targeted improvements. amazing work the team do in training infection, such as those undergoing and developing clinicians. intensive chemo therapy. In addition, Not only have emergency departments this will help the Trust to support The departments in both locations now been significantly improved both in acute patients as well as helping have ‘rapid assessment and decision’ Basingstoke and also in Winchester increase our pseudomyxoma cancer units, along with full ambulatory – those with accident prone children surgical treatments – a field in which facilities. However few know that in will perhaps have noticed the lovely Basingstoke is world renown. child centred murals in both locations Basingstoke, we also now have a ‘flu – truly inspired! More importantly and analyser’, which helps in rapid diagnosis, Anyone who has previously visited the less obvious has been the recruitment which means that those affected can be radiotherapy unit (located behind the of additional key staff, for example quickly given the correct treatment as Candover clinic) would have been aware just in Basingstoke alone there are six well as being isolated thus preventing of the large reception area. This is now extra senior nurses in the Emergency further contagion. being reduced to provide two additional rooms where patients can relax in Department, with four more on the A further change in Basingstoke private, along with a further room where way. In addition there are six more involves changes to the ‘high patients can have private consultations - consultants, who on completion of their dependency’ unit, with the creation of often needed to help them cope with the training moved away from here, but two new state of the art isolation rooms side effects from treatment have now chosen to return to us - we equipped with comprehensive pendant must be doing something right! The treatment modules. These rooms are Keith Bunker

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18 Sherborne St John Church of England Primary School

As this article is published, we will be favourite book characters, and we had of running track. Naturally this type of nearing the end of the Spring Term – great fun guessing them all! equipment helps the schools continued one which has been notable for the high We are always interested to find out commitment to and promotion of the number of wet playtimes!! Hopefully the what our ex-pupils are doing now, so if benefits of good health and an active sun will shine for the last afternoon of you used to come to the school, or are a lifestyle. We have sought various term, when we have our annual Easter parent of an ex-pupil, please do email us quotes and have secured a final and Bonnet Parade and enjoy looking at at [email protected] to let us know best price, which is still over £23,000. all the creative and original pieces of what you are up to. If you are happy for This is unfortunately over 30% higher headgear that the children (with a little us to include you on our website, please than originally estimated, which has help from parents!) have produced. indicate this on your email. resulted in a stretching target that Sherbert – SSJ School Villager is unachievable within our normal Correspondent fundraising cycle. We have already made some great progress toward this target but still fall URGENT APPEAL March 2020 short by approximately £12,000. With Dear Readers this target in mind, whilst school level fundraising will remain a priority, we It is 170 years since the doors to our are approaching local organisations and wonderful village school opened. As you families with links to the school to ask Congratulations to all of the children can imagine the building and outside for their support for our fundraising who took part in sporting competitions grounds have seen much change during project. We would kindly ask you to this term, and in particular to the year that time, reflecting the ever-evolving consider making a one-off financial 5/6 badminton team who qualified for needs and resources available to our contribution to support our efforts. the County finals. Teams from years local children. I am writing to you on We are keen to secure these funds and 3&4, and 5&6, competed in tag rugby behalf of the Sherborne St. John School progress with the project to ensure that festivals and a Key Stage 1 team took Association with that front of mind. our school children do not lose this part in a football festival. Everyone ran We have been tasked by the school to valuable activity and exercise trail. a mile at the Chute Pavilion on 13th support them in fundraising for the March to raise money for Sport Relief development of the children’s outdoor Thank you for the time you have taken – a big ‘Thank You’ to all the friends, space. The children’s existing play to consider this request. If you can help family and villagers who sponsored the equipment has reached the end of its us with any financial contribution, no children. natural life and will need to be removed matter what amount, we would love We celebrated Book Week in March from the school playing field. As a result to hear from you. Please contact Mrs with a number of different book- of continued funding pressures there Karen Payne, Headteacher on 01256 themed events. The author David is unfortunately no additional budget 850180 or Colette Vonka, Secretary of Hammersmith visited the school and available to fund the replacement. This Sherborne St John School Association ran workshops for the Infant classes. therefore means we are faced with on 07551 627667 if you are able to assist The staff read excerpts from their removal and replacement costs falling or would like to discuss this further. solely on the School Association. favourite books, and parents took part Kind regards in a ‘relax and read’ session. We also Our fundraising therefore focusses on Jo Berry had a successful book-swap event. At generating the money to replace to the the end of the week, all the children existing outdoor adventure trail and, if Chairperson, came into school dressed as their possible, we hope to install a small area Sherborne St. John School Association

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21 The Priory Primary School

The Priory Primary school in Pamber quality (challenging) texts inspire the Throughout the whole process of End has been evaluating its future writing of the children. Although early establishing a new vision and making direction and on Tuesday 10th March, days, the school has seen some really the vision become a reality, Mr. Stewart’s the headteacher – Mr. Stewart, incredible writing being produced from aspiration to make the Priory more addressed the parents to share the vision the children. involved with the community has paid for the future of the school. As a keen dividends and the new library is just In a physical sense, advocate for community involvement, one example, there are many exciting the new vision of Mr. Stewart wanted all the stakeholders projects that the Priory will be involved inspiring a love of the school to be involved in shaping with in the future – the school will keep of learning has the vision and so to achieve this aim, us posted. been established the Priory has encapsulated and through the Priory’s amalgamated ideas from the parents, the PTA. Sharing pupils and the staff at the school, whilst the vision for the also taking in the recommendations future – the PTA Mary, Sue, Kate and the rest of the from the recent (highly positive) have invested heavily in developing family would like to thank everyone OFSTED inspection. the school’s library, which is now a for their cards, kind words, love and The newly formed vision statement: modern, vibrant and exciting center support following the loss of beloved ‘Inspiring a Love of Learning’ has become for learning, featuring a wide range of husband and the school’s new mantra, emblazoned books, including high impact texts. A father Dennis across the walls of the school, but also special thanks must go to Mrs Jo Swali Plester. permeating through to school’s evolving and Stickerscape for their fantastic help The thoughts approaches to the curriculum. Equally, with the impactful artwork around and prayers of the staff of the school are developing the school. Further investment in the so many people new approaches to teaching that inspires library will include creating research are greatly the children to learn more deeply, which bays, purchasing a range of magazines appreciated. is summed up by their current focus and journals, plus equipping the library on Writing. This was inspired by Bob with audiobooks and e-readers. Cox’s ‘Searching for Excellence’ – where

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22 SSJ Tennis Club AGM

This has been postponed for the time being

Tennis Club Event Wednesday, 22nd April – 7pm at Chute Recreation Ground As these will be outside we are hoping to still hold these : Drills with Andy the coach : Followed by refreshments & the Wimbledon Ticket ballot (for those members who have opted in) New and previous members - All very welcome

23 WEATHER – Carbon Dioxide in the Atmosphere

The world receives incoming radiation The proportion of Carbon Dioxide has vast amounts of vegetation during the from the sun and the ground warms up varied throughout time being noticeably Summer absorbing Carbon Dioxide in during the day and cools by infra-red low during ice ages and higher during the process. The world had achieved a radiation at night, but Carbon Dioxide interglacials; to investigate past levels reasonable balance until the Industrial molecules in the atmosphere reflect very deep ice cores in places like Revolution came along and man started some of the outgoing radiation back. Greenland and the Antarctic have been to need increasing amounts of energy, Mankind has broken the balance by taken and analysis of the constituents and that was from fossil fuels which, increasing the proportion of Carbon of the interstitial air in the ice (there is in combustion, create large amounts of Dioxide so there is now a nett tendency a question of accuracy and reliability of Carbon Dioxide. for temperatures to rise. the samples). I calculate that the atmosphere of the The atmosphere is composed of a It is accepted that prior to the world weighs about 4500,000,000 mixture of gases, Nitrogen being the Industrial Revolution (viz. c.1700) million tons and of that Carbon Dioxide main element comprising 78.05% of there were about 280 parts per million weighs in at 1845,000 million tons and the total, Oxygen comes next with of Carbon Dioxide (0.028%) in the to reduce that level by 25% (to near 20.95%; then there is Argon at 0.93% atmosphere. Accurate analyses of the 1940/50 levels) some 460,000 million and Carbon Dioxide currently totalling gases in the atmosphere have been tons of CO2 would need to be removed 0.04%. There are a few other gases with made since about 1950 (especially at from the atmosphere. The problem is very small amounts, but significantly Mauna Loa in Hawaii). By 1958 the how to do it and what to do with it when varying amounts of water vapour figure had risen to 315 parts (0.031%) it has been removed! are very essential for enabling life to and by 2010 it was up to 385 parts survive here. (0.038%). In 2018 the figure was up to The main source of CO2 is the burning 410 parts (0.04%) per million. The ratio of these gases has not always of fossil fuels (coal and oil) but a serious been the same. 2.8 billion years ago Growing vegetation takes Carbon additional source of CO2 is cement there was very little Oxygen because the Dioxide out of the air as part of the production – production of one ton of world was out-gassing Methane (which process of photosynthesis, but then cement involves the release of almost readily combines with Oxygen and so ultimately the vegetation dies and the one ton of CO2 due to the chemical creates Carbon Dioxide and water). A Carbon Dioxide is released back into the conversion of calcium carbonate to lime very long time ago cyanobacteria started air. It has usually been claimed that the plus the energy required so to do. to form in warm shallow waters of the Tropical Forests, with their abundant According to 2018 statistics the world’s sea and, under the action of sunlight, growth, are the ‘Lungs of the World’; but largest producer of CO2 is China the cyanobacteria produces Oxygen logically the forests produce abundantly (27.5%), followed by the USA (14.2%) (and still does). Then, about 2.8 billion but then decay abundantly with little India (7.25%) Russia (4.6%) Japan nett benefit. There is an annual cycle years ago, the production of Methane (3.1%) and Germany (2.1%). The UK decreased allowing Oxygen to increase with the amount of Carbon Dioxide lies twelfth in the list with a fraction to roughly its current proportion varying by about 1% with a high value over 1% (well below that of Saudi resulting in an environment that in the Northern Spring and a low value Arabia). encouraged the development of life as in the Northern Autumn – this is due we now know it. the northern landmasses producing David Cullum

24 Basingstoke & Deane Council introduces fines for idling motorists

It’s not fine to idle – that’s the message which they can reduce pollution in their “Leaving your engine on while waiting from Basingstoke and Deane Borough own homes. in your car contributes to unnecessary Council who is set to introduce new emissions that affect levels of air The campaign has seen the council and powers to penalise motorists idling pollution and greenhouse gases. Many partners work with local schools to their vehicles. motorists are simply not aware they can encourage parents and children to travel make a difference by switching off their Stepping up a gear to tackle air pollution to school differently, reduce idling outside engine while waiting. in the borough, the council will issue the school gates, work with taxi drivers fixed penalty notices to those motorists to reduce idling and encourage the use of “Our primary objective is to raise caught idling while stationary on a ultra-low emission taxi vehicles. awareness and educate motorists to public highway from Monday 23 March. switch off their engines while waiting, Together with partners including but it is also important they understand The notices will be issued by the Hampshire County Council’s school that vehicle idling is an offence. These council’s civil enforcement officers, travel team, Basingstoke Clean Air powers enable us to issue a fixed penalty community safety patrol officers and Campaign and Stagecoach, the council notice for a fine of £20 and these will be environmental officers while carrying has also supported awareness and issued by our officers when required.” out their normal duties. education events giving out over 5,000 anti-idling stickers to motorists to place For more information on the new The £20 fines will be a last resort and a on their car windows. powers and what they mean for notice will only be issued when a motorist motorists, why the council is tackling refuses to switch off their engine. The new move to issue fixed penalty engine idling, information on the Clean notices supports the council’s Climate It’s been over year a since the council Air Campaign and myth busting visit Emergency declaration last September launched its Clean Air Campaign www.basingstoke.gov.uk/clean-air to work towards a carbon neutral encouraging people in the borough For further information on this release borough by 2030. to reduce air pollution by using their please contact: Senior Communications vehicles less, to stop idling their car Cabinet Member for Environment and Officer Krissy Lloyd on 01256 845240 or engines and to think about the ways in Enforcement Cllr Hayley Eachus said: email [email protected].

Bert’s Blog

Rain, rain and more direction it should. When she gets too sometimes have trouble hauling them rain. An oversea enthusiastic it usually ends in disaster.... into place. The Mrs helps and eventually trip to stay in my wet knees, wet feet or falling flat on we load it all on the trailer and take it chic chien shack her back hauling branches out of the back to the barn for stacking in the dry. has not improved water. Once out in the wet weather By this time we are all dog tired, my the weather, the nothing seems to deter her from getting coat is usually quite wet and I seem to rain continues wetter or muddier and for once she and be covered in sawdust and mud in equal to fall. Luckily I see eye to eye, especially when she measures. The Boss and the Mrs usually my luxurious fur has fallen over and I can give her face fair a bit better and can shed their wet coat is fairly shower proof as it has a good cleaning off while she is laying gear before entering their domain but been severely tested recently. The Mrs there recovering! However she is not as bath time for me looms in the future...... is almost unrecognisable in her wet enamoured with my cleaning method I can feel it in the air and in the eyes weather gear with only a ghostly face as I am and usually belts out a loud of the Mrs as she regards me with that visible inside her hood. Her hibernation “get offfff” when I try to help. I also look which bodes ill for dirty dogs. It’s instinct has come to the fore and the give invaluable help with removing the out with the perfumed shampoo and Boss has a devil of a job extricating her broken branches from the water but my hairdryer...... I can feel a woofter moment from the house. I have more success stacking system is not up to scratch yet. coming on. This constant rain brings persuading her to come for walkies to When the branches are log size the Boss out my natural perfume but the Mrs the lake where she can fossick about gets busy with his noisy cutting machine feels she can improve on that with her clearing debris from the spillways and and I have to stand well back until they bottles and potions so I comply just to streams and ensuring water flows in the are reduced to bite size, even then I keep the peace...... roll on summer! 25 SSJ History Society Sherborne St John School Celebrates Empire Day

Entries made about one hundred years In the afternoon they marched to The Both General Knox and Admiral ago in Headmaster George Hammond’s Vyne and were addressed by retired Digby saw service throughout the School Log Book describe the annual General Sir William Knox on their world, both having taken part in the celebration of Empire Day. Towards the heritage, their duties and their flag. Ashantee War in 1874, Gen. Knox end of Queen Victoria’s reign it was said Retired Admiral Noel Digby also spoke with the Royal Artillery and Admiral a few words to them. After singing that “the sun never sets on the British Digby serving as Commander on “Flag of Britain” and “Hearts of Oak” Empire”, and the map below illustrates ‘Rattlesnake’. Previously he had served they were regaled with buns and the truth of this statement; the Empire as Lieutenant on ‘Warrior’ the first lemonade. They were then allowed to British seagoing ironclad warship, now in dark shading. Suggestions were made wander about the beautiful grounds and docked near ‘Victory’ in Portsmouth’s that a day should be identified on which gardens. A very pleasant afternoon was historic dockyard. In 1886 as Captain children would be “reminded that they spent. The buns and lemonade were commanding ‘Dreadnought’ the future formed part of the British Empire and undoubtedly well earned!. King George V served as one of his that they might think with others in Similar celebrations at The Vyne took lieutenants. In retirement Gen. Knox land across the sea what it meant to be place every year and they were usually lived at Hill House (now the Grange) sons and daughters of such a Glorious attended by school children from Monk in SSJ, and Adm. Digby at Street Farm Empire. The strength of the Empire Sherborne and Bramley in addition House, Bramley. depended on them, and they must never to Sherborne St John. When the 1st Empire Day is no longer celebrated as forget it”. world war started in 1914 it was no longer possible to be entertained at The it was a hundred years ago. Times have It was not until some time after the death Vyne, but the celebrations continued changed and Empire Day has changed of Queen Victoria, on 22nd January 1901, at the School. For example, on 24th to Commonwealth Day , the second that it began to be celebrated in schools, May 1916 Mr Hammond wrote that Monday in March, when our Queen and the day chosen was the Queen’s General Sir William and Lady Knox, Elizabeth sends a special radio message birthday, 24th May. and the Rector (Rev. Devereux Chute) to the youth of the Commonwealth. attended. He said that the General Unfortunately no lemonade and buns. Mr Hammond’s entry for 24th May 1909 had given a good address about the [email protected] reads “The children assembled at the Empire and patriotism. This was in fact usual time and after saluting the flag sang the General’s last Empire Day speech (This article was written by Pat Linford several patriotic songs. They were then because he died in December 1916 at in 2009. We are republishing it in his addressed on “The Duties of Empire”. the age of 69. memory)

26 Supporting local families Ranil Jayawardena, M.P. – Member of Parliament for North East Hampshire

Helping support our community’s more of what they earn, so that’s what That’s why we’ve increased the families and children is a key focus we did in last month’s Budget. By the transferable tax-free Marriage Allowance of my recent work as the Member of time you’re reading this – into the new to £1,250 – and I trust that will continue Parliament covering Sherborne St John, financial year – your NI threshold will – but, sadly, 2.4 million eligible couples Monk Sherborne and the Pambers. have been raised to £9,500, giving the currently do not apply. As your MP, I’m Families in our constituency are ‘typical’ two-earner working family a here to highlight it – if you think you fortunate to have one of the highest rates £200 tax cut. This is alongside a freeze in might be eligible, please apply! of employment, as well as the highest fuel duty for the tenth consecutive year In my view, there can be no more rate of marriage in the country and one – a saving of £1,200 over the last decade important a job than looking after of the lowest of lone-parent households. for each family car – and a freeze on those you love, but who cannot look alcohol duty, which may have saved you So, as we look to solve the challenges after themselves, so I know many want even more! facing our local area today – such as us to go even further. I’ve asked many anti-social behaviour, demand for But I’ve been highlighting that we must Parliamentary Questions on these issues Sherborne St John, Monk Sherborne and be flexible too and, as a society, we must and will continue to do so, but please the Pambers’ local GPs and schools, and revise the ‘typical family’ assumption. do let me know your thoughts and what making social care sustainable – I’ve been While families in North East Hampshire works for you too, on this or anything writing to Ministers to boost recognition are united by where we live, they come else, to: [email protected] of the fact that many issues can be in many different shapes and sizes and For more information, or to share addressed by taking the best principles what works for one family may not work further concerns or ideas, please join the and aspirations of the past; namely the for another. official Facebook group for community familial support that extended, multi- In many local families, for example, this support at: covid.ranil.uk and consider generational, families have provided one means one parent providing the care volunteering to help your neighbours at: another for decades. To do so isn’t old for their children or their parents (or ranil.uk/covid fashioned, but ambitious. parents-in-law), while the other goes out For health advice, please visit I know that many in our community to work. Yet, though this care is worth nhs.uk/coronavirus want more support to help working more than £1 trillion pounds annually parents look after those they love. One to our economy, many parents tell me For the latest guidance from way is reducing National Insurance they feel that this is often undervalued. HM Government, please visit: contributions to let working people keep This is wrong. gov.uk/coronavirus

Read Easy launched in Basingstoke that even carrying out everyday tasks for working so hard and achieving last July to provide a free, confidential, can be challenging, if not impossible - so much in such a short time. They one to one coaching service for adults for example, never going to the doctor were both absolutely delighted to be who, for whatever reason, are unable as it is too embarrassing to have to presented with a certificate for their to read or who struggle with their read and fill in forms. Being unable to achievement, and described in very reading. We have had a very busy time read and write is often associated with moving terms the difference that being with the initial recruitment and training depression, isolation, homelessness, able to read has made to their lives. of volunteers for coaching and our crime, low self-esteem and mental If you know anyone over 18 who is management team, as well as publicising health issues. unable to read or who struggles to read, our service to help those adults in the Last weekend was a milestone for us - do please encourage them to make area who are in need of it. we were delighted to have our first two contact with us either by phone on The sad reality is that 2.4m adults in the readers complete manual one and are 07952 450789 or by email basingstoke@ UK cannot read, while 2.5m struggle to they are now moving onto the second readeasy.org.uk We are here and have read, an estimated 7,000 in Basingstoke stage of our phonetically based reading trained coaches ready to help. alone. On a practical level, this means programme. We are so proud of them

27 28 29 Probus hears from Local Author and Raconteur

The ability to engulf an audience in posh GU postcode, he therefore asserts laughter is a real skill which Mel Rees he cannot catch the Coronavirus easily displays. He was the guest speaker and is most disparaging about the at the latest Probus Club meeting and neighbouring conurbation of Aldershot. yet just spoke off the cuff. He had When he had to use a mobile medical nothing but his memory to rely on as he unit he asked the nurses if next time thoroughly entertained everyone. There instead of using the Tesco car park that was no specific topic despite his talk they use the one at Waitrose as they having the title “My Family and Other would get better quality patients. Setbacks” as he gave anecdote after Guardian readers and PC attitudes. His A multi faceted individual he acts anecdote about his observations of life. nom de plume is Anthony Mann and as a tour guide at the Hoggs Back despite having one book as the Daily It is not surprising he has been passed Brewery and finds it amusing when Express book of the month he could on from one club to another so these talking to the visitors, if they hesitate not get any literary agent or publisher days he gives over 200 talks each year before answering, he knows they lie interested in his outpourings. He had across the south east of England, about where they live. Reigate instead no option but to self publish and set sometimes two a day, driving over of Redhill, near Horsham instead of up The Trouser Press. Today several of 30,000 miles in the process. And what Crawley, Hove instead of Brighton – it his books are on their third printing. good value he gives as he passes from becomes a double barrelled name of Naturally all editions were on sale so a one topic to another with always the Hove Actually, West Camberley instead steady trade was carried out. But they amusing aspects of life’s experiences of Blackwater. can also be purchased on Amazon or coming to the fore. He has written several books which downloaded as an E-book. Living in Ash Vale, or, as he describes mirror his view on life and its vagaries See www.probusbasingstoke.club it, Upper Ash Vale in Surrey, with a especially about politics and his view of

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Separation and divorce usually involve a major crisis for a family where LEGAL emotions can run high, especially if there are children to consider. CORNER However, with mediation it can be handled calmly, where both sides work together to find the best solution for them and their children. Sheila Parkes, who heads Haymarket Family Mediation at Phillips Solicitors incorporating Brain Chase Coles, believes mediation is one of the most sensible and cost-effective ways of resolving family problems when a relationship has broken down as it provides clients with a safe environment for them to meet with a neutral experienced mediator who will assist them in finding a resolution that works for them both. In fact, for the majority of people, mediation is a quicker and cheaper option for resolving family difficulties than going to court, where the outcome can never be accurately predicted. Sheila believes separating couples are the best people to make the decisions that will affect their future and that of their children rather than a judge imposing a decision. Sheila says “In my experience mediation is an effective way of resolving issues in a dignified, respectful, constructive and co-operative manner. Mutually acceptable solutions can be found even in the most difficult cases, whether the disagreement is about child-care arrangements or how the family assets should be divided.” Sheila and her team at Haymarket Family Mediation are based at Town Gate, 38 London Street, Basingstoke and can offer mediation with clients together, by shuttle (where each client is in a different room), or even by skype – whatever suits the clients more. Sheila is also qualified to see children as part of the mediation process in appropriate cases. Haymarket Family Mediation is approved by the Legal Aid Agency to offer Legal Aid for those who qualify financially. This is a welcome benefit to clients who may otherwise have nowhere else to turn to for help. Mediation can also be used for cross generational issues such as grandparents. If you feel that mediation is right for you or to find out more information, please contact Sheila by emailing [email protected] or by calling 01256 460830. Details about Haymarket Family Mediation can be found by visiting www.phillips-law.co.uk/haymarket-family-mediation By putting in place Government contingency measures we intend to continue offering as normal a service as possible throughout the duration of this unprecedented pandemic; and by working together we are confident that we can find solutions to any problems arising, thereby reducing as far as possible any impact on our clients and minimising risks to health. If you have any concerns or questions, please contact one of the following Directors or your usual point of contact: Max Hope – 07973 159165 Jack Gardener – 07968 082939 Hayley Eachus – 07557 341388 Elizabeth Ford – 07941 076782

31 Small Ads Enquiries and items for inclusion please contact Emma Foreman on 01256 889215/07747 015494 or [email protected] - The advertising rate is £4 per month or £6 for a box entry. Cheques to be made payment to ‘The Villager’. - Payment for advertisements must be received in advance and are limited to 10 lines of type. - For information on annual block advertisements please contact Emma Foreman

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32 Women’s Fellowship

The SSJ Fellowship met at the village of each plant are picked, hence the accepted an offer to share a pitch from hall on Tuesday afternoon 3 March naming of PG Tips. Food at weddings is Ken, a hillbilly with an impressive beard, 2020 and welcomed Barbara Cummins served on banana leaves and eaten using who it turned out hunted elk for a living. to talk about her experiences while fingers. “Plates” are topped up by men His political opinions were slightly “Cycling Around the World on a scooping food from pots carried around. controversial especially his plan for an Bicycle, One Pedal at a Time”, no mean This obviously saves on the washing up! uprising if he and his gun touting friends disagreed with government policies. feat for anyone but Barbara is in her Barbara did not enjoy her visit into the Barbara decided to continue her travels 70’s and travelled alone for most of the Moroccan Sahara as much. A long ride the next day despite an invitation to stay journey. She had kindly agreed to step by camel into the desert followed by a and arrived at the coast to spectacular in to replace the scheduled speaker very cold and uncomfortable night in a views of the lakes and sea. The worst who was unable to attend to talk about tent was not ideal. However, continuing hill she had to contend with was the 7 “Learning about Clinical Trials”. Barbara her journey and cycling 25 km downhill, Devils hill and she had to push her bike had decided to travel after being made down the Atlas Mountains was fun and luggage for most of the climb until redundant unexpectedly and her talk despite the many potholes as the views she reached the top where she met with covered part of the journey including were spectacular. short trips to India and Morocco and a amazing views that extended for miles. The final part of her talk covered her 1,000 mile cycle along the Pacific coast The 7 mile downhill ride afterwards was exploits in the USA. A catchphrase of of America. a joy. Barbara later visited Luna, a 1,000 Seattle is “It’s never not raining” and year old tree that only survives today One of the many highlights of visiting downtown Barbara visited a Kinetic because a lady activist lived in it for 2 Kerala in S.E. India for Barbara was sculpture of an umbrella blown inside years until an agreement was reached viewing the beautiful and varied out depicting the bad weather suffered. not to cut it down. architecture. Kerala is also renowned She took photos of the fantastic views of Finally Barbara crossed the Golden Gate for its backwaters and is a popular the area whilst walking the rotating glass Bridge into San Francisco and after a holiday resort. Most of the Christians floor in the Space Needle. She amazed brief visit to Alcatraz Island to see the there are catholic and being wealthy, us with pictures of the innovative and prison, she went on to stay in Yosemite. many in the state are highly educated. colourful glass artworks of Chihuly The weather was so cold that milk she Barbara learned from a Catholic family taken at the exhibition in Chihuly bought stayed fresh for 3 days. She paid she stayed with that birth control is Garden and Glass. She did encounter $95 to stay the night in a room that practiced so families tend not to be a few issues on the long cycle ride on was not heated, had no comfort and the Pacific Coast route, not least of large. The family was so welcoming little bedding. From here she cycled to which was the final demise of her tent that they took time to dress her in a Sequoia National Park to see the world’s one night during a thunderstorm while sari, a process that took longer than largest tree, the General Sherman. Here camping by a river in Washington State 15 minutes. There were some hairy controlled forest fires are lit to clear leaving her huddled awake under the events on the road including having dead pine needles and leaves to make remnants until the storm abated. to overtake an elephant who appeared way for new growth. to be sweeping the road but who was She was given a sample of cannabis to The talk was very much enjoyed and actually carrying his food for the day try in Oregon where the substance is Barbara said she would be more than and junctions that turned out to be legal, but perhaps wisely did not indulge. happy to come back to talk about other free-for-alls so crossing was at your She passed several signposts advising places she had visited. own peril. Not so impressive was the of Tsunami hazardous areas in Clatsop amount of rubbish dumped at the sides County where they are prepared for the The next meeting will be held on of the road and the constant noise next storm even though the last one Tuesday 7 April at Sherborne St John from traffic. The tea plantations are to occurred back in the 1700’s. She arrived village hall and will start at 2 pm. The be found higher in the hills where the at a campsite where all 5 places had guest speaker, Diana White subject temperatures are cooler. Cultivation is been taken. As it was not possible to is “Finland, A Very Special Country”. labour intensive as only the top 2 leaves erect a tent in the surrounding area she Everyone is welcome.

33 ADVERTISE HERE CALL Emma Foreman 01256 889215 07747 015494

[email protected]

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