WHITTINGTON ORGANISATIONS PARISH SERVICES

SUNDAY SERVICES: WOMEN’S INSTITUTE: 8:00am Holy Communion on 2nd, 4th and 5th Sundays Second Thursday in the month in the Community Centre 10:30am Holy Communion weekly Secretary: Mrs Joyce Howard Tel:656389 6:30pm Holy Communion according to the Book of WHITTINGTON CASTLE PRESERVATION TRUST: Common Prayer on 1st Sunday Chairman: Jonjo Evans Tel:671300 6:30pm Evensong on the 3rd Sunday Castle Manager: Ms Sue Ellis Tel:662500

th BELL RINGING: 4:00pm Messy Church on the 4 Sunday Details from Brian Rothera Tel:657778 (No Service in July or August)

BROWNIES, GUIDES: WEEKDAYS: 9:30am Holy Communion - Thursday 6:00-7:15pm Thursday except in school holidays in the Community Centre 5:30pm Choir Practice - Alternate Thursdays Brown Owl: Mrs D. Gough, 2 Newnes Barns, Ellesmere Tel:624390 RECTOR: Reverend Sarah Burton Tel:238658 BEAVER, CUBS & SCOUT INFORMATION: Assoc. Minister: Reverend Richard Burton email:[email protected] Information from: Brenda Cassidy – Group Scout Leader (Gobowen) The Rectory, Castle Street, Whittington SY11 4DF 2 Heather Bank, Gobowen Tel:658016 e.mail: [email protected] Curate: Reverend Jassica Castillo-Burley Tel:611749

WHITTINGTON UNDER FIVES GROUP: CHURCHWARDENS: Sessional and extended hours Carer and Toddler Sessions Mr M Phipps, Wesley Cottage, Babbinswood, Whittington Tel:670940 Leaders: Dawn and Mandy Tel:670127 Mrs G Roberts, 28 Boot Street, Whittington Tel:662236 Meet in the Community Centre 9:00am – 3:00pm e.mail: [email protected] SENIOR CITIZENS: Monday Whist Drive, Thursday Coffee Morning VERGER: Mr D. Howard, 16 Yew Tree Avenue, Whittington Tel:656389 All meetings in the Senior Citizens Hall Deputy: Mr P. Morris, 1 Rosehill Avenue, Whittington Tel:659562 Secretary: Mrs Gillian Roberts, 28 Boot Street, Whittington Tel:662236 ORGANIST: Mr K. Griffiths, 12 Park Crescent, Park Hall Tel:662116 MOBILE LIBRARY SERVICE: The Mobile Library will stop in the cul-de-sac by the Three Trees/White MAGAZINE: Lion on alternate Tuesdays between 2:55pm – 3:55pm. This will now be the Editor: Miss A Ward, Manor Garden, 5 Boot Street, Tel:672838 only stop in the village. Whittington – [email protected]

CHURCH WEBSITE ADDRESS: www.whittingtonchurch.org.uk Distribution: Mr & Mrs J Carroll, Rhoswen, Station Road Tel:659385

SCHOOL WEBSITE ADDRESS: www.whittingtonschool.co.uk WHITTINGTON C of E PRIMARY SCHOOL: Headteacher: Mr Carl Rogers Tel:662269 36 e.mail: [email protected] 1 “THE RIPPLE” WHITTINGTON ORGANISATIONS (Whittington Parish Church Magazine) Vol 31 No 4 CRICKET/BOWLING CLUB SECRETARY: August 2018 Mr Andy Cawthray - email: [email protected] Tel:657178 07581 710523 Commissioning for ORYC Youth Minister MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY: Richard Beaman Tel:659166 I’m very pleased to be able to share the very exciting news that we have appointed a CRICKET SECRETARY: pioneer youth minister for Oswestry Rural Trina Lewis – email: [email protected] Tel:774406 07968 844341 Youth Church. BOWLING SECRETARY: Eileen Sinker Tel:770212 Matt Barkley is currently working as a Christian youth worker with a United Reformed Church in the south of England. He will be moving COMMUNITY CENTRE BOOKING SECRETARY: to the Oswestry area, with his family, to begin this new work in Mrs Kath Griffiths Tel:662116 September. There will be a commissioning service for Matt at 4:00pm on 2nd September 2018, in St. John the Baptist Church, Whittington. SHROPSHIRE COUNCILLOR FOR WHITTINGTON As this is a venture for young people, we want this to be a joyful AND WEST FELTON: celebration for all ages, so we will begin with a welcome and all-age Mr Stephen Charmley, 3 Glebe Meadows, Whittington SY11 4AG activities at 4:00pm, followed by a commissioning service at 4:30pm, e.mail:[email protected] –www.stevecharmley.co.uk and ending with refreshments; all are welcome. Tel:650488 WHITTINGTON PARISH COUNCIL: Matt’s role is called ‘pioneer’ because he will be starting something Amy Jones (Clerk to the Council) Tel: 829571 completely new. This means that we don’t yet know what this will look Held the fourth Tuesday in the month like. Matt’s first few months will be taken up with getting to know the [email protected] area and meeting young people, other youth workers and the local http://www.whittingtonpc.com churches. SHROPSHIRE YOUTH SERVICE: Rural Mobile visits the village on Tuesday 6:15pm – 8:00pm From this he will begin, with the support of others, to identify the best bus parks opposite the “Premier” Shop, Whittington. times and place to meet regularly with young people. The project Open to young people between the ages of 13 – 20 yrs. spans an area from St. Martin’s and Weston Rhyn in the north, to Contact: Wendy Stockton, Shropshire Council Youth Worker. Tel:654175 Kinnerley and Llanymynech in the south and includes eighteen

Church of England parishes. This is quite a challenge! ORYC will BAPTISM SECRETARY: need to find ways of arranging activities for young people which are Mrs Margery Mellor, 10 Boot Street, Whittington Tel:681036 within reasonable distance of where the young people live and also e.mail: [email protected] where there is potential to develop local leaders to work alongside Matt. WEDDING: Please contact the Rector Tel:238658 2 35 Signori; explore the church of San Fermo Maggiore, which unites the Young people from Whittington and West Felton participated in the Romanesque and Gothic styles of architecture, and the magnificent ORYC interview process and they were brilliant. They prepared Cathedral, which features a marble Romanesque façade by the Veronese questions, which they put to the candidates at an orientation event, architect Nicolò. and assisted in leading worship. Visitors from the Diocese, and local churches, were very impressed with all the young people and One of ’s most renowned wine regions, the valley of Valpolicella is candidates said this was the most challenging part of the interview located just east of , and makes a fabulous day trip for those process! visiting Verona. Ranking just after Chianti, Valpolicella wines are made from three grape varieties, namely Corvina Veronese, Rondinella, and A huge thank you to everyone who has supported the project so far Molinara. Winemaking here has existed since at least the time of the ancient through your time, prayer and financial gifts. As the project moves to Greeks and the region is famed for its Recioto, Ripasso and Amarone wines. this new stage, we will need volunteers to work with the young people A visit to Valpolicella will also reward you with fine food and dining in the alongside Matt. We are also looking for people to help with local quaint, picturesque villages of San Pietro Incariano, Fumane and Negrar. fundraising and with keeping people informed about the project. If you Visitors should note that Valpolicella, despite its wine pedigree, doesn’t have can help in any way or would like to know more about the project, as many tasting rooms and wineries open to the public as one might expect please get in touch or visit our website: https://www.oryc.org.uk/ having explored other famous wine regions, but what they do have rewards a visit. If you feel the need to work off some of the good food and wine you’ve sampled in the valley, or want to see more of the natural landscapes of the Sarah, region, the nearby park of Cascate di Molina showcases Italy’s countryside at its best, and boasts beautiful natural waterfalls and hikes for adventurous Whittington Rectory visitors to enjoy.

OSWESTRY SHOW

th SATURDAY 4 AUGUST

WHITTINGTON CHURCH

BOTTLE STALL

DONATIONS WANTED PLEASE

PLEASE CONTACT - MARK JONES: 657547

LINDSAY RUTHERFORD 07976700709 34 3 bridge is made up of white marble. It is open all day, every day and is one of the best places to enjoy spectacular views over the city, as well as views of the adjoining Castelvecchio Castle. The bridge can get very crowded, a testament to its popularity and appeal, but also an annoyance to some visitors, particularly photographers; it is a good idea to arrive early or late in DIARY the evening to avoid crowds. There are benches on the river banks where you can enjoy views of the bridge itself. On weekends there is often a market 1 7:30pm Whist Drive in the Senior Citizens’ Hall; £1.50 spanning the length of the bridge. including refreshments The Piazza delle Erbe is a square which was once home to the city’s Roman 2 9:30am Holy Communion Forum during the days of Empire. The piazza contains the Britney Verona fountain, the ancient town hall, the Lamberti Tower (which affords 4 8:30pm The August Prayer Breakfast to support the Schools breathtaking views over the city for those willing to climb the stairs), the 14th Christian Project Worker will be at St John’s Church, -century Gardello Tower, the Baroque Palazzo Maffei, adorned with statues Weston Rhyn; if you would like to attend please call of Greek gods, and a pretty daily market that draws tourists by the bus load. Lynn Carroll on 659385 by Wednesday 1st August The markets are famed for their fresh fruit and vegetables but there are other things on offer, like Venetian masks and beautiful shawls. Despite the 8:30am onwards Oswestry and District Agricultural Society 133rd crowds, the square is worth a visit for its lovely eateries: you can grab a bite Annual Show at the Show Ground, Park Hall to eat and dine al fresco in the picturesque Roman Court. The Piazza delle Erbe is the heart of the city and its central gathering place. Street artists add 5 TENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY to the festive atmosphere and the clash of ancient and modern is interesting; be sure to take your camera along and look up at the buildings surrounding 10:30am Parish Communion the square rather than just at the bustle of life that surrounds you; a busy 6:30pm Holy Communion According to the Book of place in the evening. Common Prayer The is an enormous Ancient Roman theatre dating back 2,000 7 12:00 noon Whittington Senior Citizens ‘Ploughman’s Lunch’ years and is the third-largest surviving theatre in the world, and Italy's largest in the Senior Citizens’ Hall; cost £7.50; further opera theatre. The very fact that this theatre is still fully functional after details on page 11 2,000 years and has withstood a devastating earthquake makes it an attraction not to be missed. More recently it has played host to popular music 9 9:30am Holy Communion artists such as The Who, Kiss, Elton John and Tina Turner. Seating up to 15,000 people, the best time to visit the Arena is during the summer, when Whittington Women’s Institute Boat Trip and Meal operas take place inside on balmy summer nights; however you can visit in Chester without seeing a show for a small admission fee. Climb the steps on the hill above the Amphitheatre to the Castell San Pietro (St Peter’s Castle) for 12 ELEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY spectacular views over the city.

8:00am Holy Communion You can also visit the remains of a 3rd -century Roman gate at the historic 10:30am Parish Communion Porta Borsari; see the statue of famed poet Dante Alighieri in the Piazza dei 4 33 TRAVELLER’S TALES 13 LAST DAY for magazine material for the August edition of the “Ripple” all material to Anne Ward, Manor Garden, VERONA 5 Boot Street, Whittington – [email protected]

For most people, Verona is the setting of one of the most famous love stories 14 9:30am-1:00pm Effective Hearing Programme at the Marches ever told - William Shakespeare’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’ - making it one of the School Oswestry; further details on page 21 most popular holiday destinations for lovers and romantics. Shakespeare 16 9:30am Holy Communion said, ‘There is no world outside these walls...’ With its beautiful red-tiled rooftops juxtaposed with leafy green trees and the sparkling River 19 TWELFTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY flowing through this UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is one of the most picturesque destinations in Italy. Sadly though, much of the exquisite ancient 10:30am Parish Communion architecture and ancient Roman monuments were destroyed by a powerful 6:30pm Evensong earthquake that rocked the city in 1117, which led to a massive Romanesque rebuilding. Visitors should first purchase the Verona Card for either one or 23 9:30am Holy Communion three days to get discounts on attractions and access to public transport it can 10:00am-12:00noon Coffee Morning in church; further details page 21 be bought from tobacconists and tourist information offices. 26 THIRTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY

For many, a holiday in Verona isn’t complete without a visit to Juliet’s 8:00am Holy Communion balcony, but in fact, ‘Juliet’s balcony’ was only added to the so-called 10:30am Parish Communion ‘House of Juliet’ in 1936, and named as such to attract tourists; the house is open to visitors, and you can rub her statue for good luck, but it has no 28 12:00noon Whittington Senior Citizens’ Monthly Lunch at the connection to the characters. White Lion; further details on page 11

30 9:30am Holy Communion Visit the bridges of and Ponte Scaligero for some of the best th ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ views of the city and the 14 -century Castelvecchio, which houses Verona’s ADVANCE NOTICE FOR SEPTEMBER Art Museum. Also known as the Castelvecchio Bridge, the Ponte 4:00 pm Sunday 2nd September Scaligero spans 160 feet across the Adige River, the largest span in the Whittington Church world at the time of its construction. Originally built between 1354 and Oswestry Rural Youth Church 1356, the bridge was completely Commissioning Service for Matt Barkley, destroyed during World War II by Pioneer Youth Minister retreating German troops in April 1945, but was reconstructed  4:00pm welcome and activities for all ages faithfully, using as much of the  4:30pm commissioning service original materials as possible,  Followed by refreshments between 1949 and 1951. The bridge’s upper part was built with red bricks, as are all Veronese landmarks from the Scaliger era, while the lower part of the Everyone welcome 32 5 Extracts from the Parish Registers Whittington Cemetery: There will need to be a discussion with the Church for the month of June 2018 and the Contractor in the near future in relation to the grass cutting contract.

HOLY BAPTISM Garden of Remembrance: No issues

“We welcome you into the Lord’s Family” Whittington Castle: The tea room has been revamped and is looking really good. 10th June 2018 Aubrey Rose Hughes-Blackburn of Albert Road, Oswestry Areas of Concern/Parish Matters: A letter had been received from a parishioner in Top Street relating to exiting from their drive onto Boot Street. HOLY MATRIMONY Item referred to Councillor Charmley

We sent our Best Wishes to:- Date and time of the next meeting: The next Parish Council Meeting will be at 7:30pm on Tuesday 17th July 2018 in the Senior Citizens’ Hall. 23rd June 2018 Edward Martin Evans of Llangedwyn and Michaela Duncan of Brookhouse Rd, Oswestry Paul Thompson-Lawrence (This article is a brief outline of the main discussion points for the Communicants for the month……...…196 Whittington Parish Council meeting and does not represent a formal record. Attendance for the month………...... 227 For an official copy of the minutes please contact the Parish Clerk or look on ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ the Parish Website - http://www.whittingtonpc.com (new address)) ACKNOWLEDGMENT ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Beware foreign plants The Rector and Trustees of St John the Baptist acknowledge the following donations: Gardeners have been told by government ministers not to bring back plants from holiday, in order to stop them inadvertently introducing an invasive A donation of £54 Anon species into the UK.

Donations totalling £55 following the Ordination of Reverend Jassica Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs officials are becoming Castillo-Burley from her friends increasingly concerned about water-borne threats such as the ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ‘Dikerogammarus villosus’, or killer shrimp; ‘Didemnum vexillum’, the Old Chinese Proverb carpet sea squirt, and ‘Dreissena bugensis’, the quagga mussel. These can clog up waterways and pipes, or smother reefs. As one expert explained “we If there is light in the soul – need to raise awareness of bio-security.” there will be beauty in the person. If there is beauty in the person, One of the main risks is for invasive non-native species to be accidentally there will be harmony in the house. brought into the UK by people who take part in angling, canoeing, or boating If there is harmony in the house, abroad as these plants attach themselves to equipment such as paddles and there will be order in the nation. hulls. If there is order in the nation, Moving in the right circles is not the same as making progress 6 there will be peace in the world. 31 Crimes reported in May: There were ten reported Crimes in total – Drugs OSWESTRY SHOW (1); Criminal Damage (1); Theft of a vehicle (1); Theft other (1); Sexual PARK HALL, OSWESTRY Offences (2); Concern for Safety (2) and Assualts (2). There were thirty- eight other, Non-Criminal, reports. th SATURDAY 4 AUGUST 2018 Public Participation: One member of the public raised the matter of the building planned at the Donnett. The latest SAMDEV (Site Allocations and THE SQUIBB FREESTYLE STUNT TEAM Management of Development) will be in place up until 2026. There are no (SPONSORED BY RIDGEWAY RENTALS) proposals decided at the present and all will come clear by the end of the year. A call for sites needs to be decided. KIPPERIDGE GUNDOG TRAINING

Planning: The Council will consider any planning applications received. Permission Granted: 18/01816/FUL – 29 Drenewydd, Park Hall, DISPLAY OF VINTAGE TRACTORS AND Oswestry – Erection of front extension. STATIONARY ENGINES (by Montgomeryshire Vintage Machinery Society Ltd Bank Reconciliation: The Bank reconciliation up to and including 12th June sponsored by SCOTTISH POWER) 2018 – Current Account £46,337.83; Deposit Account £108,571.21

VINTAGE CARS AND MOTORCYCLES Matters Arising: The Defibrillator has been attached to the Senior Citizens’ Hall. MODEL STEAM RAILWAY TRACK

Councillor Resignation: An email was recently received by the Clerk and FUN FAIR forwarded to all the other Councillors. It was from Councillor Cawthray, stating that he was resigning his post forthwith. This was discussed and RARE BREEDS SHOW, GOATS, Amy, the new Clerk, would inform Shropshire Council. The Council could co-opt someone on to the Council in August. SHEEP SHEARING

Youth Club for Whittington: Councillor Ian Johnson shared his thoughts Poultry, Pigeon, Rabbit & Cavy Show regarding the idea of a Whittington Youth Club. There were various options open including a meeting with TNS, who provide things to do. Ian would VILLAGE GREEN ENTERTAINMENT feed back his thoughts on this subject in August. FLORAL ART, FLOWERS & Footway Lighting: The company, Highline, is responsible for installing the VEGETABLE SHOW lamp posts, unfortunately, in Park Hall, there are many old concrete lamp posts still standing, some with new metal posts adjacent to them, but with WOMEN’S INSTITUTE & YOUNG FARMERS blank heads, or no head at all. There are only 3 or 4 fully installed LED lit COMPETITIONS lamps; apparently lamp heads will be installed as and when.

Whittington Play Area: Some checks have been undertaken and recorded “Heart of England – Food Hall”, and will be looked at in the future. Business, Shopping & Craft Marquees 30 7 Whittington marks 100 years since the end of World War 1 at Whittington Parish Council News, Whittington Village Fete on Monday 27th August Meeting held on 26th June 2018 (Bank Holiday Monday)

Whittington Together is gearing up for our third Village Fete and cordially There were nine Parish Councillors, two Clerks, Police Constable Support invites the people of Whittington and beyond to join us to mark the Officer Dave Hughes and three members of the public at the meeting. centenary of the end of WW1, and to say “Thank You” to those who served, sacrificed and changed our world. For many months a lot of people have The Chair welcomed Mrs. Amy Jones, the new Clerk to the Council, who been knitting and crocheting poppies, and with the school’s contribution, we will be taking over from Mrs. Cowley. There was also an apology from intend to build our own Cascade of Poppies from off the Castle Wall Councillor Pat Rain, who was unable to attend the meeting. marking our own tribute to the men of Whittington who did not come home. Your Local Police Officer and Community Support Officers Contact The Fete opens at 12:00noon in the grounds of Whittington Castle with the numbers: Local Police Officer: - PC 3718 Kate Le’Clere – 07792 774 024 crowning of the Fete Queen by Jill Whitby, Chair of Whittington Parish Police Community Support Officers: - PCSO 6412 Dave Hughes – O7816 Council. 172 510; and PCSO 40279 Pete Roberts – O7792774047

Run by the Community Centre team we shall have our Craft and Produce About your Team: Safer Neighbourhood Teams work with local people and competition with prizes for the winners. See page 10 for the schedule, you partners to identify, tackle and solve issues that matter to the community still have time to enter! where you live. Making neighbourhoods safer by cutting day to day crime and anti-social behaviour is at the heart of keeping people in West Mercia In the arena we have a variety of activities for all ages. This year we safe. Thanks to an investment in mobile tablet style computers, these will welcome Llay Welfare band who will play a selection of music, along with enable officers to spend more time on patrol on the street and in re-enactors dressed in uniforms and clothes of that era. Look out for neighbourhoods. Officers will continue to come to people when they need Whittington’s own Suffragettes. We shall have demonstrations from our them and provide a high quality service however you contact us - in person local clubs and to finish the very popular family Tug of War. We also have a (on the street, at community bases and at partners and communities together wide range of stalls selling exciting products and services. [PACT] meetings), on the phone or online.

Get in touch - 101 to talk to your local SNT or report a crime It is free to enter and free car parking is available. Come along and have a  oswestryrn.snt @westmercia.pnn.police.uk good old fashioned day out. As with the last two years we expect the traffic  www.westmercia.police.uk to be very busy and request all visitors to follow the road signs to the designated parking areas. / @Oscops - Only call 999 in an emergency, when a crime is in progress or life is in danger. As part of our fund raising activities we shall be holding our traditional bottle tombola. If you have any bottles that you would like to donate please In the event of a Police emergency call 999 for urgent attention; or ring 101 give Ian a call. A full programme of activities can be viewed on our for non-emergency calls. The Police mobile numbers above will only be Facebook Page www.facebook.com/Whittingtontogether answered if the Officer is on duty. If your call is not answered please leave We look forward to seeing you at the Fete your name, number and a brief message. The Officer will respond at their Ian Johnson, Chairman, Whittington Together. earliest convenience when they are next on duty. Email: [email protected] Phone: 07917025003 8 29 August – the holiday month – traffic congestion month! – This poem was written in the style of Tennyson’s “The Charge of the Light Brigade” after Whittington Together Summer Fete the author read “Drive On – If You Dare!” (see June Ripple 2018)

THE CHARGE OF THE CAR BRIGADE

Half an inch, half an inch Flashed at car and van, Monday 27th August 2018 Half an inch onward, Flashed at by every man, All into the traffic jam Our day out down the pan, 12:00 noon – 4:00pm Rode the six hundred. Will we ever get there Forward the car brigade! We all wondered: At Whittington Castle Oh not again they prayed: Baking in our stuffy car All into the traffic jam We haven’t got very far Drove the six hundred. In these hours. Crowning of the Fete Queen at 12 noon

Heat from the road tar Forward the car brigade! Smells as engines thundered. Whittington’s tribute to 100 years since Was there a driver dismayed? Should we turn back thought Even though passengers knew The six hundred. the end of World War One Someone had blundered: Theirs’ not to rant and cry, Cars to the right of them, Theirs’ not to reason why, Cars to the left of them, Llay Welfare Band – Into the traffic jam Cars behind them Drove the six hundred. Stuttered and shunted: Local Organisations - Turn off the traffic news, Cars to the right of them, I’m going to blow a fuse, Maypole Dancing – Cars to the left of them, Traffic signs that confuse Re-enactors – Stalls – Cars in front of them In this grid-locked chaos, Stuttered and shunted: In this hell of queues, Refreshments Bar – No use the traffic news, None was moving, Bouncy Castle – Rides – Only serves to confuse, In this six hundred. Into the jaws of chaos, Games and much more Into the hell of queues When will the traffic fade? Drove the six hundred. Where’s the improvement made! FEATURING POPPIES – A tribute All the world wondered. Honour the promises made! to those who did not come home Honour the taxes paid, and to those who changed our world Said the six hundred. Sue Gerrard FREE ENTRY and FREE CAR PARKING Evergreen magazine Winter 2017 28 9 WHITTINGTON TOGETHER CRAFT AND PRODUCE SHOW people of northern France had gone through. No wonder in 1945 they were th adamant that there should never again be war in Europe like this. The MONDAY 27 AUGUST 2018 embattled city of Amiens, too often a scene of brutal warfare, reminds us of SCHEDULE the preciousness of peace. Canon David Winter FLOWERS FRUIT ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 1 3 Dahlias 8 3 Eating apples JULY QUIZ ANSWERS 2 3 Roses 9 Dish of Blackcurrants 3 Mixed cut perennials in a vase 10 Dish of Raspberries 1. Will Smith Beware taking your pills abroad 2. Zoe Salmon VEGETABLES HOMECRAFT 3. Prescott Are you going abroad on holiday?

4 4 Potatoes 11 Jar of jam 4. Rabbit 5 4 Runner Beans 12 A photograph of a castle Be careful which medicines you pack – 5. Rose what is legal in this country may NOT be 6 4 Onions 13 An arrangement of flowers 6. Banjos 7 Cut herbs in a jar in a basket legal in the country to which you are 7. ET going. And, as figures from the Health 14 A knitted item 8. Sylvia’s Mother Survey for England show that 48% of us 9. Four are taking prescription medication, this CHILDREN’S SECTION: 10. Pressure of gasses will affect very many of us. Age groups: 3 years and under; 4 & 5 years; 6 – 8 years; 9 – 11 years. 11. March 12. Toad Officials at the Foreign Office strongly There will be a small prize awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd for each item in all 13. Flora advise you to check the rules online sections and a cup for the winner in each age group. 14. J. R. R. before you travel. For example, even 15. Spiderman Vicks and Sudafed are illegal in some 3 years and under – 1 3 decorated biscuits 16. Boxing countries. In others, such as Greece, 17. Birmingham Diazepam, Tramadol, and codeine are 4 & 5 years – 1 A vegetable animal 18. Supernanny controlled drugs. 19. Police 2 A hand print Sleeping pills, anti-anxiety pills and 20. Shoulders strong painkillers require a licence in 6 – 8 years – 1 A garden on a plate 21. Emperor Singapore. 2 2 fairy cakes on a plate 22. Twelve 23. Tin Pan Alley So – do read the travel advice for each 24. Three 9 – 11 years – 1 A Lego item country before you go. 2 A greetings card (any medium) 25. The clubhouse 26. The first dog in space ALL ENTRIES TO BE STAGED 9:30-10:30am 27. Billy Elliott It seems like one of the hardest lessons to ON THE DAY OF THE SHOW 28. Fireball XL5 be learned in this life is where your 29. Wembley business ends and somebody else’s SHOW-CO-ORDINATORS – Libby Morris 01691 659566 30. Heavy Goods Vehicle begins. - FM Hubbard & Kath Griffiths 01691 662116 31. Dixie 10 32. Water carrier 27 Diary of a Momentous Year: August 1918: WHITTINGTON SENIOR CITIZENS Over 50’s Club – Recycled Teenagers The Battle of Amiens

Many historians of the First World War consider that The lunch at The White Lion this month is on Tuesday 28th August; please two battles in the summer of 1918 were the final contact Val Hayward on 01691 662434 if you would like to join us. If you turning points in the eventual outcome of the war and are a regular at the lunches, please let Val know if you are unable to attend of the settlement which followed it. for any reason. The cost of the two course roast lunch is currently £7.50, and includes tea or coffee. The White Lion is now “under new management”; The second Battle of Marne was in July, and the even more significant Battle why not join us and see if you enjoy our company, you do not have to of Amiens was in August, exactly a century ago this month. The Germans commit to attending every month. had launched an attack in the Amiens area, a strategic target in northern France near the Belgian border. The Allies were ready for it and responded We would like to thank all the people who joined in the with devastating force. Hundreds of tanks, soldiers from at least four knitted poppy appeal. We had people from most nationalities, and – a new development in warfare – ground attack aircraft, organisations, together with family and friends knitting drove the Germans out of the city. madly away. One of our members, (together with her family), produced 350 poppies between them. If you still have some poppies to deliver, could you In the first few hours of the battle the Allies took 17,000 prisoners of war. either drop them into church, to my home, 28 Boot Street, or Margery Commentators consider that at least some of them were German soldiers Mellor, 10 Boot Street, please. who had had enough of a war they were obviously going to lose. The city of Amiens and much territory beyond it were recaptured, but the impact of the Mike Phipps has asked me to thank the members who attended the mini- victory was greater than territory taken. The whole balance of military cream tea we held on Friday 22nd June to help him celebrate his 80th strength had changed beyond dispute. birthday. We had a lovely afternoon when 30 people sat down to cakes, and strawberries and cream; Mike’s wife Barbara provided a birthday cake. In 1946, a year after the second World War ended, my older brother invited me to join him on a visit to France. A family he had been billeted with in On July 10th we visited the Vintage Museum, near Denbigh, after a Amiens, as a member of the British liberating forces, had invited him to customary stop for coffee at the Ponderosa. The display was of 40’s, 50’s, come and spend some time with them in more peaceful circumstances. At 16 60’s memorabilia and included transport items, fashions etc. There were I’d never been abroad, so gladly agreed to go. When we got off the train in many items that we all remembered possessing at one time or another. The Amiens I saw for the first time the consequences of what they called ‘total coach ride over the Horseshoe Pass was well worth the trip. I think the war’. We picked our way past ruined buildings and homes in a city that had spotted Gloucester pigs snoozing in the sunshine caught most people’s eyes. endured both invasion and four years of enemy occupation. For August 7th we are planning a ploughman’s lunch at the Hall. The cost I had seen the after-effects of the Blitz in London, but this was worse. Even will be £7.50 and will commence at 12:00noon. Can you please let us know outside the city, the landscape bore all the scars of war. There were few if would like to attend so we have an idea of numbers to cater for; many trees, for instance, the long-term result of endless shelling over two wars. As thanks. M. Deladier, our host, pointed out, Amiens had been a battle-ground four times in his life (I guess he was about 60) – twice in the first World War and In September we plan to visit Chester, as so many people had said they had then twice in the Second. The experience helped me to appreciate what the never visited Chester Cathedral, and those that had said they would not mind 26 11 a visit to the city for a shopping trip, or why not take a river ride. Chester is RECIPE OF THE MONTH a lovely city and well worth a visit. Please contact either Val or myself if you wish to join one of these trips. We all have our favourite cake – I never know between lemon and ginger, and so I was delighted to find this recipe which combines the two! Yet again, we find it necessary to ask people who live near the hall not to let their dogs loose on the car park as people attending events at the hall LEMON AND GINGER LOAF are finding they are treading in doggie poo. In addition it is then left for someone to clear it up, which is not a very pleasant occupation. There is CAKE: 4 medium eggs ICING: few knobs fresh ginger a monetary fine if we can prove who owns the dog. 200g golden caster sugar 150g icing sugar, sifted finely grated zest of 1 lemon 1½ tbsp lemon juice Committee Members: President: Val Hayward; Vice President: Veronica 100 ml double cream Hargraves; Secretary: Gill Roberts; Treasurer: Marion Lycett; Committee 200g plain flour DECORATION: Members: Frances Savage, Sue Dyke, Glenys Shuker, Mary Tomkins 1 heaped teasp baking powder hundreds & thousands 1½ tesp ground ginger strips of crystallised ginger Gill Roberts – 01691 662236 65g unsalted butter melted and cooled ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 4 tbsp lemon juice Defibrillator Awareness Courses (additional melted butter for the tin)

The Parish Council has arranged two training Oven: 190°C/170°fan/gas 5 sessions which are organised in conjunction Brush the inside of a 22cm loaf tin or equivalent (about 1.3 litre capacity) with the Oswestry Cambrian Rotary Club; they with the additional melted butter. Unless your tin is non-stick, line the base will be delivered by a Heart Start Tutor and with baking paper. Community First Responder. Whisk together the eggs, sugar and lemon zest in a bowl, then add the cream. Sift the flour, baking powder and ginger together and gradually fold into the The courses will take place on Saturday 4th egg mixture. August at 10:00am and Saturday 25th August at 10:00am; both in the Stir in the melted butter and 3 tablespoons of the lemon juice. Senior Citizens’ Hall, Station Road, Pour the mixture into the cake tin and bake for 40 – 50 minutes until golden and risen and a skewer inserted at the centre comes out clean. The sessions will last approximately two hours and there is no charge to Run a knife around the edge of the tin to loosen the cake, turn it out on to a attend; the trainers just ask for donations at the end to support the life-saving rack, remove the base paper and then stand it the right way up. work they do. It is very important to train as many people as possible to use Sprinkle over the remaining tablespoon of lemon juice and leave it to cool. the Defibrillator, should a situation arise where it is required to help save Place the cake on a serving plate or cake stand. someone’s life. This is for the benefit of the local community and anyone To make the icing, squeeze 2 teaspoons of juice from the knobs of fresh who may be visiting the parish. The defibrillator is in an ginger (you can use a garlic press). UNLOCKED cabinet so can be accessed 24/7. Whisk the ginger juice with the icing sugar and lemon juice in a bowl. Using a spoon, coat the top of the cake with the icing, allowing it to run If you would like to attend one of the sessions, please book onto the course down the sides. with the parish clerk – 01691 829571 or email [email protected] Decorate the top of the loaf to taste and leave the icing to set for an hour or Jill Whitby, Parish Council Chair two. 12 This keeps well for a couple of days. 25 AUGUST at Whittington Castle

5th Aug Car Boot Sale – Cars from 8:30am £5 per car – sorry NO trade stands – open 9-ish. No need to book, just turn up from 8:15am onwards 12th Aug History Fun Day – Open 10:00am – 4:00pm Meet local experts and find out about Whittington Castle and Oswestry in the past. Displays include: Oswestry Castle excavation; the Civil War Siege of Oswestry; 7th century Whittington, art work; shield painting and heraldry, and possible boating on the moat. Plus guided tours of the Castle. Free entrance just £1 to park. 26th Aug Car Boot Sale – Cars from 8:30am £5 per car – sorry NO trade stands – open 9-ish. No need to book, just turn up from 8:15am onwards 27th Aug Bank Holiday Monday – Village Vintage Fete – open New heritage website to help end the misery of leaking church roofs 12:00noon – 4:00pm FREE ENTRANCE Come and browse the stalls; play some games and listen to the band. MaintenanceBooker, a new heritage website to keep historic churches and Whittington’s tribute to 100 years since the end of World chapels safe for the future has been launched in England and Wales, War One following a successful Heritage Lottery Fund pilot project in Yorkshire. Parking at Whittington Castle Set up by the National Churches Trust, the UK’s church building support Whittington Castle Preservation Trust is aware of parking issues within the charity, and 2buy2, the national buying group for UK, charities, schools and village, especially around the school and church. The Castle car park is churches, MaintenanceBooker makes it easy for churches to prevent available for locals and visitors to the village and Castle to use. However we problems such as leaking roofs and crumbling stonework. do ask that if you park at the Castle that you purchase a ticket each time for

£1 from our Pay and Display machine, and display the ticket on your wind- Churches and chapels of all denominations can use MaintenanceBooker to screen. get professional help for essential maintenance tasks, thereby preventing the need for expensive repairs. What you may not be aware of is that the maintenance of the car park and driveway is maintained by the Trust and not the Council. The Castle Using the website www.maintenancebooker.org.uk churches can book gutter receives no Council Grants or Government support. It is totally reliant on the clearance and repairs, lightning protection inspection, tree surveys and income we receive from the car park, Tearoom and Gift-shop, and our events maintenance as well as asbestos surveys and removal. More services will be to keep both the Castle and grounds maintained. Due to the harsh winter the added later in the year, such as stonework and lime mortaring with bat car park is going to need some attention very shortly and so every penny surveys, and grounds and graveyard maintenance in the pipeline. A video really does count in order to keep this facility open to the public. explaining MaintenanceBooker is available at https://vimeo.com/269895676 Egotist: a person who suffers from too much vitamin I Your support in helping us is very much appreciated. Another way you 24 13 could support the Castle is to become a Friend or Member of the Castle – CHILDREN’S PAGE which gives you certain benefits, including: FREE parking for a year, if you display your Membership Card, and reduced entry costs to certain events each year. Please visit the tearoom or shop to pick up a Membership Form. Thank you. Sue Ellis, Castle Manager – Telephone 01691 662500 E-mail: info @whittingtoncastle.co.uk Website: ww.whittingtoncastle.co.uk ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Nos Da/ Good-Night! A Panoply of Historic Welsh Quilts

The Welsh Quilt Centre’s last exhibition is now on and lasts until the 10th November; the display is in Lampeter’s Town Hall and is open Tuesday- Saturday from 11:00am until 4:30pm. The whole spectrum of Welsh quilting is on show, making this a last chance for anyone who loves textiles, art, history and Welsh culture. The display covers the 19th century to the mid-20th and utilitarian flannel quilts are hung alongside paisley, wholecloth and patchwork Welsh quilts, creating a feast for the eyes. The wider influence of Welsh quilts upon the Amish communities of Ohio and Pennsylvania is also touched upon and sits alongside quilts created by Kaffe Fassett, himself a fan of Welsh quilting, along with the exquisite embroidery of Eirian Short; an Amish quilt from The American Museum in Britain is included in the display. In Gallery Two, ‘Folk Art of Wales’ is a rare and intriguing glimpse into the craft work of Welsh Samplers. Many of these intricate pieces, made by very young girls, are mainly from the 19th century. Gallery Three will welcome a diverse range of artists through-out the year.

This last ever exhibition has been put together, and managed for the last ten years, by Jen Jones who many believe has single handedly saved the heritage of Welsh quilts through collecting these textiles since she arrived in Wales in the 1970s. At that time Welsh quilts were considered ‘old bedding’ and were consequently readily discard or thrown away. 14 23 AUGUST QUIZ On the delights of a working party in the churchyard

1. Which Prime Minister held office first –Eden or Macmillan? The Rectory 2. Which Don made the album “American Pie”? St. James the Least of All 3. Who won an Oscar for Best Actor in “The King and I”? My dear Nephew Darren 4. Who plays rugby union at Kingsholm Road? 5. The character Mrs Mangel appeared in which TV soap? A few weeks ago, some visitors to our church 6. Sharron Davies is associated with which sport? congratulated me on the decision they thought we had 7. Who wrote the novel “Animal Farm”? taken to let our churchyard run wild, so it could 8. Which ex soap star recorded “Counting Down the Days” and “Left provide a natural habitat for the local flora and fauna. While assuring them of the Middle”? that thoughts of rabbits, moths and nettles were rarely out of our minds, I 9. In the Bible, which Book immediately follows the Acts of the made a mental note that it was time for a working party to be drafted; our Apostles? local flora and fauna needed reminding who is really in charge. 10. Which Premiership boss completed 10 years at the same club in June 2005? The request for volunteers produced the usual crop: those young farmers 11. In which country is the city of Calgary? who saw it as an opportunity to compete with one another to prove who was 12. Which Martin starred in “The Chief”? the fittest, the recently retired who were determined to prove that they were 13. In which decade of the 20th century was Sue Lawley born? just as able as those half their age and those whose main intention was to tell 14. What word can go after “sign” and before “office”? the rest how much better the job used to be done in their day. 15. Which Marvin Heard it Through the Grapevine? 16. Which Virginia was BBC Sports Personality of the Year in 1977? I explained to them all that naturally I would have been only too delighted to 17. Which George wrote the play “Pygmalion”? help, but my poor back excluded me. I did, however, offer to sit in the sun 18. Uriah Heep appears in which Charles Dickens novel? and keep watch over their jackets. We all have our own particular ministries. 19. What colour is in Cilla Black’s maiden name? We were all more than a little surprised to see that Lord Euxton had put his 20. In which English Park was the 2005 Live8 Concert held? name down on the list; the only exercise I have ever seen him doing is lifting 21. How would 71 be shown in Roman numerals? a large whisky and soda. But on the day we found that his interpretation of 22. Jack Regan and George Carter appeared in which TV series? offering his services meant sending round the under-gardener. 23. Known as 9/11 in America how would the date be known in the UK? 24. In which month is St George’s Day? I never realised that Dr Tomkins could run so quickly until he accidentally 25. What bird gave Fleetwood Mac their first No. 1? scythed the top off a wasps’ nest. Hotly pursued by several thousand irate 26. What type of book links Bridget Jones and Samuel Pepys? insects, he cleared the churchyard, vaulted the wall and headed across the 27. Which lumbering animal appears in the “Fantasia” ballet dance? green to the village pond. Having spent the last three decades complaining 28. What instrument did Fats Waller play? about young people in the village diving into it, I suspect he will now be the 29. What is the only English anagram of CAUTION? first to contribute towards its upkeep. 30. In which decade did Labour gain its biggest parliamentary majority? 31. The characters Alf, Else and Rita appeared in which TV series? The moment of high drama was when a tree stump was dragged up using a 32. Who was the first leader of Iraq in the 21st century? tractor. Such force was needed that if the chains had snapped, a substantial 33. Which UK car manufacturer produced the Hornet? portion of the men of the parish would have been decapitated. When the 34. What word can go after “king” and before “man”? stump finally gave up the struggle, it emerged with several long-forgotten 22 15 headstones and a portion of the church’s water main. The new feature of a churchyard fountain looked rather charming, until the water board arrived to Coffee & Company cut us off.

Come and Enjoy During the lunch break, most had brought packs of sandwiches or flasks of a soup – apart from Major Mitchell (retired) who dragged a picnic hamper Cup of Coffee or Tea from the car boot and set about a three course meal washed down with a and a chat bottle of chilled Chablis. His decision to have a little nap, empty hamper and in bottle beside him, when all the others returned to work was not entirely Whittington Church - Thursday 23rd August surprising. Three hours later, with the job completed, we all left for home, 10:00am – 12:00noon with the Major still enjoying his siesta. I woke him up at 6:00pm when I returned to church to say Evensong. Your loving uncle, Eustace ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ All are very welcome No, not any Entrance is free

The manager of the garden centre came out of his Voluntary Donations to the Church office to hear Jenkins, one of his most trusted ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ assistants, saying to a lady customer: ‘No madam, EFFECTIVE HEARING PROGRAMME we certainly haven’t had any for some time, and who knows when we will get any.’ TUESDAY 14th AUGUST

When the customer had gone, the manager tackled him: ‘I heard that, The Marches School, Oswestry Jenkins,’ he remonstrated, ‘and I must say that I am surprised at you. Never, never admit to a customer that we can’t get them something. That’s what 9:30am – 1:00 pm we’re here for. If it’s out of stock, tell her you’ll get it for her soon. Now, what was it the lady wanted?’ Do you have a hearing loss and would like....

‘Rain,’ said Jenkins simply.  To make better use of your hearing aids? ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~  Have better access to services and equipment? REMEMBRANCE 100  More effective communication skills?

On 4th August 1918 King George V met to pray with For information, advice and support in a friendly and relaxed members of the Houses of Parliament. One hundred atmosphere, come to our FREE Half-Day course (booking essential); days later, the war ended. This year, 4th August 2018 and bring along a family member/friend or carer as the course will also will be the first day of 100 days of prayer across the be relevant to them also.

country, running until Armistice Day in November. Every day there will be prayers, Bible readings and reflections written by To book please call: 01743 342168 or email: [email protected] 16 21 9th Feb 1816 – The thermometer at 2 Fahrenheit (-16.66C) a little before contributors from UK churches, ministries, chaplaincies and the Armed sunrise Forces Christian Union. These ‘100 Days of Peace and Hope’ can be 28th Dec – Part of the canal bank near Chirk gave way, and the coal pits in downloaded, a week at a time from www.remembrance.co.uk for churches consequence filled with water. and individuals to print and use.

10th Aug 1819 – The first stone of the Menai Bridge was laid In an introduction to ‘100 Days of Peace and Hope’, the Archbishop of Sept – Wheat in Oswestry Market eight shillings Canterbury Justin Welby says, ‘From 4th August let us mark 100 days with prayers for peace, hope and reconciliation.’ 1824 – A public meeting held at Oswestry to petition the House of Commons to abolish slavery in the West Indies. Between seven and eight pounds On Sunday, 11th November 2018, people around the Commonwealth mark collected for the Anti-Slavery Society the centenary of the end of World War 1. As well as reflecting on loss, this year also gives us the chance to look forward as we mark the end of World 1826 – New mile stones placed on the road from Holyhead to Shrewsbury. War 1 and pray for peace. The stones are Anglesey marble with cast-iron plates Remembrance 100 has been set up by HOPE, in partnership with a cross 29th Sept 1828 – In the evening about eight o’clock the sky quite clear and section of Christian denominations and ministries, to help churches bring the stars shining bright there appeared an arch from east to west something communities together to mark the centenary of the end of World War 1. resembling a lunar rainbow. It was much wider in the south, terminated in HOPE has also published a beautifully illustrated booklet called ‘Silence’ to points in the east and west. At first the stars could not be seen thro’ it but it give away at Remembrance events. Silence invites readers to look back with afterwards became more transparent. gratitude for the sacrifice made by so many in war, and to reflect on eternal themes of faith, hope and love. 1833 – Mr Furnival employed to make a new map of the parish – Wheat in Oswestry market 6s 6d a measure To find out more, to download 100 Days of Peace and Hope, or to order copies of Silence, visit www.remembrance.co.uk. 1835 – Frankton Church opened on St Andrew’s Day (30th Nov), and ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Hengoed Church on Christmas Day Here is an extra challenge this month

My thanks to Maureen Beard for a copy of the Salopian Recorder which Can you find 30 books of the Bible hidden in this passage? is produced by the Friends of Shropshire Archives. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ This is a most remarkable puzzle. It was found by a gentleman in an airplane The Lions Den – A Sunday school teacher was telling the story of Daniel in seat pocket, on a flight from Los Angeles to Honolulu, keeping him occupied the Lions Den. She described the hunger and ferocity of the lions, and then for hours. He enjoyed it so much that he passed it on to some friends. showed her class a picture of Daniel standing brave and confident right in the middle of them all. Suddenly one little girl began to cry. The teacher paused, One friend from Illinois worked on this while fishing from his John-boat. ‘Oh my dear,’ she said. ‘Are you afraid for Daniel?’ Another friend studied it while playing his banjo. Elaine Taylor, a columnist friend, was so intrigued by it, she mentioned it in her weekly newspaper The little girl shook her head. “No, not at all. column. It’s that poor little lion, over in the corner; he isn’t going to get any food.” Another friend judges the job of solving this puzzle so involving that she 20 17 brews a cup of tea to help her nerves. There will be some names that are FROM THE PARISH RECORDS really easy to spot. That's a fact. Some people, however, will soon find themselves in a jam, especially since the books are not necessarily William Roberts, (Rector 1748-1784) continued to capitalised. add notes to various parish registers; often recording deaths outside the parish, such as two Truthfully from answers we get, we are forced to admit it usually takes a friends in 1776, one in Chester and another in minister or scholar to see some of them at the worst. Research has shown Flintshire. The weather was another popular topic. that something in our genes is responsible for the difficulty we have in seeing the books in these paragraphs. During a recent fundraising event, Jan 1776 – “The year set in with a dreadful fall of snow which began on the which features this puzzle, the Alpha Delta Phil-Lemonade booth set a new 6th at night, blown into drifts by a brisk easterly wind. It lies in several parts sales record. seven feet deep, and it has rendered it impossible for the mails to pass: the London Bay did not come to Oswestry from 8th to 16th. The snow did not fall The local paper, the Chronicle, surveyed over 50 patrons who reported that so deep in this neighbourhood as nearer London. It has been observed that this puzzle was one of the most difficult they had ever seen. As Daniel English snows which fall with an Easterly wind are always the deepest.” Humana humbly puts it, "the books are all right here in plain view, hidden from sight". Those able to find all of them will hear great lamentations from 2nd March 1776 –at her house in Oswestry of the influenza my mother Mary those who have to be shown. One revelation that may help is that books Roberts relict (widow) of my father, the Reverend Robert Roberts, MA, late Timothy and Samuel appear without their numbers. Vicar of Chirk, aged 80. Buried at Chirk.

Also, keep in mind, that punctuation and spaces in the middle are normal. A July 1778 – “It has to be remarked that the weather continued mostly cold chipper attitude will help you compete really well against those who claim to till towards the middle of June, and the sun continued very shy of showing know the answers. Remember, there is no need for a mass exodus, there his face. But (it) has made ample amends from that time as we have not had really are 30 books of the Bible lurking somewhere in these paragraphs of later years experienced such warm summer weather. On 27th June the waiting to be found. thunderstorm alarm’d the town of Oswestry, the lightning was terrible. Its ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ severities fell upon the house of one Fox, whose servant maid was kill’d by In memory of Sir Ken Dodd – Sir Ken Dodd, the comedian, died on 11th it, but no other damage except a bedstead shiver’d to pieces.” March 2018, aged 90. He was well-known and loved for his endless string of jokes. Such as: 1st Oct 1783 – A stamp duty of three pence commenced this day on the ‘An official told my big Auntie Nellie to come off the beach, because the registry of each burial. tide was waiting to come in.’ ‘On Friday there was a tap on the door. Funny sense of humour, that Rector Charles Lloyd (1809-1851) was another inveterent commentator, plumber.’ particularly on the weather again and, for some reason, the price of wheat in Mothers-in-law: ‘I haven’t spoken to mine for 18 months. I don’t like to Oswestry Market. interrupt her.’ ‘I told the Inland Revenue I didn’t owe them a penny because I lived by the 1815 – A stagecoach from Shrewsbury passes through Whittington. seaside.’ 1st June 1815 – William Price publishes a history of Oswestry He held the world record for cracking jokes: 1,500 in 3 hours 7 minutes, with Dec – Wheat in Oswestry Market at 7s 6d no script. – A spring in the Castle grounds conduited in earthen pipes into the Rectory Garden Sign spotted in a safari park: Elephants, please stay in your car. 18 19