January 2020

Contents Page

What’s On ...... 3 Parish News and Contacts ...... 4-9 General Interest ...... 10 - 15 Churcham & Bulley News ...... 16-19 Huntley News ...... 20-22 Friends of Longhope Church…………………………………………………………...... 23 Longhope News ...... 24-27 May Hill News ...... 28

Advertisements Leeways Packaging………………………………………………………………….……………29-30 Hillside Brewery Upcoming Events ...... 31 Wiltshire Farm Foods ...... 31 Textiles ...... 32 Firewood…………………………………………………………………………………………………..32 Estate Agents ...... 34 IT Services ...... 33 Book keeping ...... 33 T’ai Chi ...... 34 Hair/Beauty/Foot/Skin Care/ ...... 35 Home Improvements/Interiors/ Flooring ...... 36-39 Garden Maintenance ...... 37-39 Electrical/Plumbing ...... 38-40 Personal Care ...... 41 Chimney Sweeps ...... 41 Catering/Tea Rooms ...... 41 Public Houses ...... 42 MOT Testing/Car maintenance ...... 42 Garden Centres ...... 43 Funeral Services/Memorials ...... 33, 44 What’s On regulars Tuesdays 2.30pm Longhope Evergreens meet at The Latchen Room, Longhope Fridays 2.00pm- Huntley Art Group meets at Huntley Village Hall 2nd Tuesday of every month Huntley Tuesday Group meets at Huntley Village Hall —- 7.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m. Want an upcoming event or regular group added to the “What’s On” page? Email the editor at [email protected] before the second Saturday of the preceding month.

2 What’s on in January and February 2020

Date page

Not a lot in January. So here is some of February also 25 12/01/20 Longhope Family Service 28 15/01/20 May Hill Gardening Society lunch 18/01/20 Fauna & Flora Coffee Morning 26 20/01/20 Longhope Council 24 16 21/01/20 Churcham Parish Council 24/01/20 May Hill WI 28 01/02/20 Huntley Saturday Market 20 01/02/20 Huntley Fish & Chips 22 05/02/20 Churcham Gardening Club 18 06/02/20 Huntley with Churcham Mothers' Union 20 25/02/20 May Hill WI 28 26/02/20 Rudford, Highleadon & Churcham WI 19

3 Forest Edge Group: Useful Contacts

PRIEST IN CHARGE: Rev Lara Bloom [email protected] 01452 831527

Readers: Monica Richardson 01452 831162 Bob Harris 01531 820657 Churchwardens: St. Michael and All Angels Church, Bulley Michael Robinson 01452 831690 Donald Stevens 01452 790347 St. Andrew’s Church, Churcham with Birdwood Peter Smart 01452 750204 Paul Charter 01452 751161 St. John the Baptist Church, Huntley with All Saints Church May Hill Torill Freeman 01452 830210 Steve Fellowes 01452 830514 Janet Bollington (deputy) 01452 831727 All Saints Church, Longhope John Moseley 01452 831888 Carryl Phelps 01452 830054 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Longhope Baptist Church www.longhopebaptist.org.uk ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ EDITOR: Peter Hanley (Please send any items to Peter via email.) The DEADLINE for contributions is Midnight on the SECOND SATURDAY of the preceding month—i.e. 11th January E: [email protected] ASSISTANT: Monica Richardson, The Old Forge, Old Monmouth Road, Longhope, GL17 0NZ. T: 01452 831162. All manuscript copy to Monica. COMMERCIAL ADVERTISEMENT CO-ORDINATOR: Angela Pengelly, Woodbine Cottage, North Road, Huntley, GL19 3DU. T: 01452 830637. E: [email protected] ON-LINE WEBMASTER and IT HELP: Trevor Reynaert - www.crystaltechnical.com

The Editor and Publishers of this magazine accept no responsibility and make no general endorsement for goods, services or opinions appearing on its pages. © Forest Edge News 2019. [Printed by Alpha Colour Printers Ltd of Gloucester. T: 01452 887000] The editor reserves the right to edit or modify any article, poster or any other submission at his discretion.

4 The View From the Rectory Window Once upon a time in a galaxy far, far away (Los Angeles in 1977 to be exact) movie history was made with the birth of the Star Wars franchise. Star Wars follows the same pattern as all those great stories we remember from our childhood. They are stories of quests where a hero leaves the world of the familiar and sets out for an unknown country in search of something or someone special. Sunday 5th January sees the Church celebrate the feast of Epiphany. The day when we commemorate the Wise Men who came from the East to seek for the infant king. The Magi, or wise men, are led to the child by the light of a star. Whether this was an actual celestial phenomenon, as the bible suggests and some astronomers confirm, or a metaphor for some other kind of enlightenment, it was by divine guidance that the Magi found the child. In many ways the Magi are the patrons of all those who seek. We are all seekers: we seek for love, for acceptance and for understanding. And we know that the journey, with God, towards wholeness and holiness is a journey without end – at least on this side of the grave. Everyone is welcome at the services in the Forest Edge benefice but you are particularly welcome to join us for our Epiphany services on 5th January. There is a custom in the church in Central Europe of blessing chalk to take home and mark the lintel of the main door or the threshold of the house in memory of the visit of the Magi to Bethlehem. This serves as a reminder to always be ready with a generous welcome, to share our gifts and ourselves, with those who come to visit us. During our Epiphany services you will be offered a piece of chalk to take home with you in order for you to mark the threshold of your home and a prayer of blessing that can be used. Lord God of the nations we have seen the star of your glory rising in splendour. The radiance of your incarnate Word pierces the darkness that covers the earth and signals the dawn of peace and justice. Make radiant the lives of your people with that same brightness, and beckon all the nations to walk as one in your light. Amen Wishing you a happy and blessed New Year, The Reverend Lara Bloom

5 Forest Edge Group of Churches—services for December (please see page 8 for readings)

Date Bulley Churcham Huntley Longhope May Hill

5th Jan 11.00am 9.30am 11.00am Epiphany Morning worship at Bulley Holy Holy (Gold) BH Communion Communion LB/MR LB/BF 12th Jan 11.00am 9.30am 9.30am Baptism of Holy Communion at Churcham Family Service Holy Christ LB/BH CE/MG Communion (Gold) LB/MR 19th Jan 11.00am 10.00am 9.30am 9.30am Epiphany 2 Morning Family Holy Morning (White) worship service Communion Worship MR RS LB/MG MR

26th Jan 11.00am 9.30am 9.30am 9.30am Epiphany 3 Holy Holy Morning People led (White) Communion Communion worship Morning LB/MG LB/MG MR worship

2nd Feb 11.00am 9.30am 11.00am Presentation Morning worship at Churcham Holy Holy of Christ in BH Communion Communion the Temple LB/BH LB/SF (Gold)

6 Monthly Reflection

“There is another way!”

It had been raining heavily for hours during the night, and the countryside was sodden. Other parts of the country had suffered serious flooding, with some people having had to evacuate their homes. I clumsily knocked over my morning cup of tea and, looking down with horror at the hot liquid spreading quickly over the carpet, I envisaged God looking down, also with horror, at the spreading stain of humanity’s sins, and seeking a desperate plan. The extreme weather conditions appeared to be God’s desperate plan to wash out the stain once and for all! Some stains are easily removed, but others are more difficult, even impossible, to remove, rendering them waterproof. (But, fortunately, water is not the remedy!). And, to quote from Nat West, “there is another way!” Yes, you’ve guessed it. That way is Jesus. God coming down to earth as a baby to share our humanity was his plan to save us from ourselves, and point us in the right direction – away from ourselves and towards Jesus. He is our hope, because he loves us so much, whatever we have done, and whoever we are. By trusting in Jesus, and being truly sorry for the things we have done wrong, he will forgive us and show us a better way to live – a way out of darkness and into his Light, forever!

In John 10:10 Jesus says: “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” This year, we can make a New Year’s Resolution to make a fresh start and choose Jesus’ Way instead of our way. And what a difference it can make!

Happy New Year! Liz Moseley

7 Readings – January 2020

Forest Edge Benefice

Readings – January 2020

Date Readings

5th January Ephesians 3:1-12 Epiphany Matthew 2:1-12 (Gold) 12th January Acts 10:34-43 Baptism of Christ Matthew 3:13-end (Gold) 19th January 1 Corinthians 1:1-9 Epiphany 2 John 1:29-42 (White) 26th January 1 Corinthians 1:10-18 Epiphany 3 Matthew 4:12-23 (White) 2nd February Hebrews 2:14-end Presentation of Christ in Luke 2:22-40 the temple (Gold)

8 Contact information Useful contacts for Churcham & Bulley

Gardening Club Frank Dummett 01452 750654 Mothers’ Union (Joined with Huntley) Mary Pitt 01452 750343

Useful contacts for Huntley

Huntley Ladies Tuesday Group Lyn Turner 01452 830777 Contact for Bells Wendy Meadows 01452 830246 Huntley Tea & Chat Angela Pengelly 01452 830637 Huntley with May Hill 100 Club Angela Pengelly 01452 830637 Brownies June Rollinson 01452 830752 Mother’s Union Shirley Baldwin 01452 830931 Huntley & District Lunch Club Jenni Britton 01452 831079 Huntley Village Hall Booking person Clare Shepherd 07756 558339 Huntley Village Hall Chairperson Jeremy Rebbeck 07768 131866 Huntley Church Organ and Music Howard Davies 01452 830597 Huntley C of E Primary School Chris Wood / Naomi Mason 01452 830510 Huntley Art Group Heather Smith 01452830088 Huntley Farmers & Crafts Market Sandie Middleton 01452831272 Useful contacts for Longhope

Hope Brook School Jen King 01452 830558 Pippins @ Hope Brook (Pre-School) 01452 830299 Contact for Bells Wendy Meadows 01452 830246 Café Bonnies Carole & Margaret 830069/830023 1st Longhope Brownies Fiona Ross-Collins 01452 831319 Longhope Art Group Jackie Cox 07780 877 300 Longhope Bowling Club Roger Acland 01452 831083 L.A.D.S. Denise Williams 01452 830138 Chatterbox Bob Harris 01452 831620 Lunch Club Donna Bailey 01452 830543 Gardening Club Joan Cross 01452 830432 British Legion Sue Brown 01452 831118 Christian Aid Pam Ingram 01452 831692 North Dean Walking Group David Bignell 01452 830491 Latchen Room (Village Hall) booking contact Mo Cameron 01452 831103 Longhope W.I. [email protected] Jo Phelps 01452830940 Longhope Pre-School Vanessa 830434/831235 T'ai Chi at the Latchen Trevor Reynaert 01452 830000 Longhope Evergreens Peter Histed 01452 830924 Flora and Fauna International Elizabeth Orr 01452 831317

Useful contacts for May Hill

May Hill W.I. Anne Dodson 01452 831271 May Hill Players Chris Nash 01452 830564 May Hill Gardening Society Clive Edmonds/Jan Bollington 01452 831545/ May Hill Line Dancing Jan Weeks 831727 May Hill Hall booking person Roger Cox/Jenny Grassam 01452 831155 Country Dancing Liz Cox 01452 Gentle Yoga at May Hill Laura Brobyn 830454/830350 9

General Interest

By February I will have looked after "Forest Edge News" for a full year. Recent travel commitments together with family illness (nothing life- threatening but getting in the way of deadlines) have convinced me that I do not want to go on beyond 15 months. The May edition will therefore be my last.

As well as keeping people informed about the happenings going on around our parishes, the magazine earns a significant sum for the Benefice. For both of these reasons it is worth while keeping going.

I have appealed several times for help but nobody has offered to come forward with a view to taking over - so far.

I envisage a hand-over time of one month, to "learn the ropes". Thereafter it takes about two modest days a month. Hardware (a computer) and software are provided by the Benefice. Anybody who has used a word processor (e.g "Word" or "Libre Office") and has some patience can do it. Apart from providing a benefit for the community you also get the chance to hone your computer and literary skills.

Peter Hanley

General Interest

WINTER COLLECTION

AS IN PREVIOUS YEARS, WE ARE COLLECTING TINS AND PACKETS OF FOOD FOR THE HOMELESS AND THOSE IN EMERGENCY ACCOMMODATION WITHIN OUR LOCAL COMMUNITIES DURING THE WINTER MONTHS.

WE ARE PARTICULARLY ASKING FOR TINS OF MEAT AND VEGETABLES (POTATOES, CARROTS, PEAS) AS WELL AS ‘POT NOODLE’ TYPE MEALS (FOR THOSE WHO ONLY HAVE ACCESS TO A KETTLE).

DONATIONS CAN BE LEFT IN THE COLLECTING BOX IN MAY HILL CHURCH OR 28 BYFORDS CLOSE, HUNTLEY.

THE GLOUCESTERSHIRE OLDER PERSONS’ ASSOCIATION (GOPA) IS ALSO COLLECTING INDIVIDUAL SEALED BARS OF SOAP, INDIVIDUAL SEALED TOOTHBRUSHES, FLANNELS, DEODORANT AND SANITARY TOWELS TO GO INTO TOILETRY PACKS FOR THE HOMELESS. DONATIONS CAN ALSO BE LEFT IN THE COLLECTING BOX IN MAY HILL CHURCH OR 28 BYFORDS CLOSE, HUNTLEY.

MANY THANKS – JUNE AND JIM ROLLINSON

11 Jen's Jottings

I always wish others a very Happy, Healthy and Peaceful New Year. Some of you may note that I never include the word prosperous. It's not that I want you to be struggling financially, rather I have come to the conclusion that being rich does not bring happiness or, in the words of the Beatles, 'Money can't buy you love.'

Looking back to Jen's Jottings 2019, I see my first Resolution was to put something in the food bank every time I did a big shop. This I did but, of course, it should not be necessary. In this respect, money is indeed a necessity. But does an excess actually bring us blissful contentment? Personally, I think not.

I have just read an extract from a book called 'Yours Truly - Parables and Stories' by Murray Watts. It's called 'Christmas Letter' where a lady writes her usual round robin telling everyone about the family's year. As she finishes the letter, an angel taps her on the shoulder and takes her round all of the recipients making her realise that a 'thinking of you at Christmas' is no substitute for caring during the year. A salutary thought that has led me to add a further Resolution this year to think more of the needs of others during the year: a letter, card, phone call, visit, small gift- something to say that you care.

Do you know someone who has lost a loved one? Someone who is struggling with ill health? Someone who is lonely? A cheery good morning (especially when you feel pretty rough yourself). A smile and a thank you to the overworked unappreciated check-out operator. Tell the postie what a wonderful job they do. You've got it! Look Beyond what you have to what you can do. It will fill you with an amazing rosy glow. Try it. You won't be disappointed!

Have a wonderful Heart-warming New Year.

12 General Interest

W.I.D.E Burglars look for opportunities, they want to find empty looking homes where they can’t be seen by neighbours and where they can get in and out quickly. Take away their opportunities by installing the WIDE combi- nations of security devices and carrying out the following actions. W - Window Locks I - Indoor lights on timer switches D - Double or Deadbolts fitted to doors E - Exterior lights on a sensor

Is your back gate your week spot? Install strong fences and gates and make sure they are kept locked. Make it difficult to climb over them by adding trellis and spikey plants. Burglars enjoy the privacy of back gardens Install CCTV or Digital doorbells: Burglars don’t want to be seen and these devices capture evidence which assist by being circulated with the Police and Public Can your neighbours see your entrance and exit? Cut back and remove large plants, bushes and high fencing that block neighbours view of your home. Mark your property with Forensic marking liquid: Forensic marking liquid increases the likelihood of getting your goods back. These liquids act like DNA evidence. Check if valuables are on show: Check what valuables can be seen from outside of your home. These may be tempting for a burglar, remove from view and mark with forensic marking liquid. Wheelie bins, tools and heavy garden objects: Wheelie bins may assist burglars to climb over fences and tools and heavy objects can help them to smash their way into your home. For further information and details view the Police website: www.gloucestershire.police.uk Fraser Gunn on behalf of Neighbourhood Watch

13 General Interest

January Nature notes

As I write this, we are fast approaching the Winter Solstice, the shortest day of the year, the day when the Earth ”turns the corner” and we can look forward to Spring! This day is usually in temperate regions looked on as the middle of winter, but in some countries it is seen as the beginning of winter.

Well, no-one seems to have told the Fieldfares and Redwings that winter is here. They are our migratory members of the Thrush family, Turdus pilaris, and Turdus iliacus, overwintering here from Scandinavia.

I haven’t seen any yet. Usually flocks of them descend, stripping the berries from our hedges and holly trees. There is bounty indeed for them this year, and when they have finished with the berries there are copious amounts of windfalls in the orchards.

I suppose by the time you read this, they will have come, eaten their fill, and gone…………

Happy New Year everyone!

J B

14 General Interest

Cover Picture This month’s cover picture was taken in January 2013. It shows the National Trust’s Belted Galloway cattle sheltering under the trees at the edge of Bearfoot Wood on top of May Hill.

I would like to know the origen of the name “Bearfoot Wood” . Has it anything to do with the infamous bear of Ruardean?

The Belted Galloways are a traditional hardy breed and the National Trust use them for low-intensity grazing in the management of wildflower rich meadows and heathlands.

As well as the National Trust ranger, there is a group of volunteers who trudge up the Hill, wet or dry, to count the cattle on a regular basis.

15 Churcham & Bulley News Churcham Parish Council met on Tuesday 19th November 2019 in Churcham Primary School. Public Open Forum Broadband A member of the public raised their concerns about the lack of progress with the broadband improvements. The clerk stated that they would again seek an update from Fastershire. Churcham Garage A member of the public raised concern about the operating hours of Churcham Garage. They were informed that the clerk had been liaising with the Forest of Dean District Council. Land South West of Colliers Elm Farm, Nr Bulley Lane, Churcham Planning Appeal A member of the public contacted the parish council with regards to this matter and it was discussed in detail. The parish council agreed that their opinion had not changed since the original application consultation. The clerk was instructed to contact the Forest of Dean District Council to make enquiries with regards to reiterating objections. Planning To receive a report of planning decisions by Forest of Dean District Council and the Planning Inspectorate: o P1450/19/FUL Town and Country Planning Act,1990 (As Amended) Adjacent To Nirvana, Birdwood, Gloucester, Gloucestershire Application withdrawn. o P1513/19/AG Town and Country Planning Act,1990 (As Amended) Agricultural and Forestry Development. Application for determination as to whether prior approval is required for further details. Churcham House Main Road Churcham Application refused. Applications considered: P1483/19/FUL Town and Country Planning Act,1990 (As Amended) Oak View Barn, Bulley, Churcham, Gloucester. Conversion of garage and workshop/store to additional bedrooms. (Retrospective). It was RESOLVED that there were no comments on this application. Budget and precept for the financial year 2020/21 It was RESOLVED that the proposed budget for the financial year 2020/21 be accepted and that the precept be raised to £12,000 The next meeting will be at 7.30pm on Tuesday 21st January 2020 in Churcham Primary School 16 Churcham & Bulley News

Churcham and Bulley 200 Club

The December Draw results:-

1st Prize No. 37 Maureen Moss 2nd Prize No. 137 Sian Bailey 3rd Prize No. 105 Sally Whittal Jackie Afflick & Carole Brennan 01452/751064 & 01452/750788

17 Churcham & Bulley News

CHURCHAM GARDENING CLUB Our usual December pre-Christmas get together was, enlivened by Matthew Sproston, of Upton St.Leonards. He brought along a banjo, a ukelele and a banjolele to illustrate the life and work of George Formby. While recounting the story of George's career, he played some of the classic songs from George's repertoire and had us all singing along to such favourites as 'Mr Woo', 'I'm Leaning in a Lamppost', 'Bless 'em All', 'Winder(sic) Cleaner', etc.. Entertaining was in George's blood, his father was a Music Hall artist, who had weak lungs. He incorporated this failing into his act with the phrase 'Its not the cough that carries you off but the coffin they carry you off in'. He died at 46 when George was 16. At the time George was a fairly successful apprentice jockey, but his mother decided he should take over his father's act,with only middling success until he met and subsequently married the formidable Beryl who became his agent. He made films and by the thirties he was the highest paid male film star in Britain with a contract worth £100,000 a year (£3,000,000 approx. in today's money) but Beryl only allowed him five shillings (25p) a week pocket money. However, during his life he indulged in a passion for Rolls Royce and Bentley cars and owned many, During WWII he joined ENSA and worked tirelessly entertaining the troops and earned an OBE. After the war he fell out of fashion but continued to appear in cameo roles. Unfortunately he too died young, of a heart attack, at the age of 56, But his persona and ditties live on. As customary, the Committee provided seasonal refreshments, and a cheerful time was had by all, with some of us still humming George's songs, The competition was for a home made cut-out paper snowflake and was won by Sue Davis, 2nd Penny Hill, 3rd Anne Pearson. PLEASE NOTE: There is no meeting January. The first meeting of the year will on Wednesday, 5th February, 2020 when Fraser Gunn will talk on the Windsor Castle Fire. The competition is for 3 Hellebores. HAPPY, HEALTHY AND PEACEFUL NEW YEAR TO ALL

18 Churcham & Bulley News

Rudford Highleadon and Churcham WI At our November meeting we were delighted all our committee members were prepared to stand again and were unanimously re- elected. Our President Janet will remain in post and her report reminded us of just how busy we been over the last 12 months. Members have enjoyed talks, a trip to Ludlow and a holiday to Transylvania, meals out, hosted cake and tombola stalls, collected various items from penny pots to milk bottle tops to raise money for charities, crafted displays for the Centenary Exhibition at the Cathedral, and hosted the May Hill Group meetings….to mention just a few things! Unfortunately our November social lunch had to be cancelled as our chosen venue the Red Lion at Wainlodes was impossible to reach due to flooded roads. Hopefully we will rearrange this in better weather. The December Carol Concert was a great success. Elin Manahan Thomas delighted the audience with her selection of songs and beautiful voice. Micheal Lei’s fingers flying along the piano keyboard was incredible, especially as he is only thirteen years old and Cotswold Brass had the audience clapping along with their music. The event was ably compared by Radio Gloucestershire’s Mark Cummings and Ian Fox conducted Gloucestershire’s W.I. Choir which included some of our members. The choir did a magnificent job setting the scene for Christmas with carols old and new and a final surprise was an amusing song reprising the events of the Gloucestershire Federation’s Centenary year, especially written as a thank you to former county Chairman, Anne Turner who had led the organising team. Our next meeting is our Festive Meal in January at the Three Choirs Restaurant. We are looking forward to another busy year, why not join us? Visitors are always welcome. Our next meeting at Rudford and Highleadon Village Hall is on Wednesday, February 26th 2020 at 7.30pm. Members would like to wish everyone a “Happy New Year” Olwen Watkins Tel.790179

19 Huntley News

JAM JAR JOURNEY Future Event Please join us again by collecting a We propose holding a jigsaw Jam Jar in January and fill it with festival in the Spring your small change (or large notes!!!!). More details later Please return the jars at Easter. For more information please contact the Huntley with May Hill fund raising group. Tel 830637 or 830240

Huntley with Churcham Mothers' Union

January 2nd - No meeting. February 6th - AGM followed by light refreshments. Meetings will now start at 2.30pm.

This is a list of the dates for 2020 for Huntley Saturday Market.

FEBRUARY 1ST, MARCH 7TH , APRIL 4TH, MAY 2ND, JUNE 6TH, JULY 4TH, AUGUST 1ST , SEPTEMBER 5TH , OCTOBER 3RD, NOVEMBER 7TH & 21ST , DECEMBER 5TH

Huntley with May Hill 100 Club December winners were:

1st No 17 Miss A Pengelly 2nd No 111 Mrs A Bourne Jones 3rd No 25 Mrs J Rebbeck

20 Huntley News

Huntley Village Hall WE NEED YOU

THE VILLAGE HALL FLOOR HAS BEEN PROFESSIONALLY SURVEYED AND HAS DEVELOPED RISING DAMP. THE ISSUE HAS REVEALED ITSELF IN SEVERAL AREAS, BUT LEFT UNTREATED WOULD IN TIME BECOME ALL INCORPORATING. THE SOLUTION IS TO REMOVE THE FLOORING, (WHICH UNFORTUNATELY CANNOT BE SALVAGED) APPLY APPROPRIATE TREATMENTS AND LAY A NEW FLOOR...... BUT THIS COMES AT A PRICE. THE COMMITTEE IS CURRENTLY TRYING TO RAISE FUNDS. ANY SUPPORT OR FUNDING WOULD BE VERY MUCH APPRECIATED.

Contact any member of the committee for more information. OR email [email protected]

WE NEED YOU

THE COMMUNITY HAVE ASKED THE VILLAGE HALL COMMITTEE TO IMPROVE THE ACCESSIBILITY INTO THE HALL. IT CURRENTLY MEETS ALL LEGAL OBLIGATIONS, HOWEVER IT IS BELIEVED A MORE PERMANENT LEVEL ACCESS WOULD BE MORE 'INCLUSIVE'. THE COMMITTEE ARE FUND RAISING, ANY SUPPORT OR DONATION WOULD BE VERY MUCH APPRECIATED.

Contact any member of the committee for more information. Or email [email protected]

FUNDRAISING TARGET £6500.00

21 Huntley News

Fish & Chip Supper -Fundraising for HuntleyVillage Hall "Made Without Gluten" have agreed to come to the Village Hall on Saturday 1st February 2020 Made without Gluten is a gluten free catering business . MENU *Cod and chips (MSC) Battered cod fillet served with chips, tartare sauce and lemon [Fish Tartare sauce (egg, mustard)] *Haddock and chips (MSC) Battered haddock fillet served with chips, tartare sauce and lemon [Fish Tartare sauce (egg, mustard)] *Battered King Prawns With sweet chilli sauce and garlic mayonnaise [Molluscs, garlic mayonnaise (Eggs)] *Battered King Calamari With sweet chilli sauce and garlic mayonnaise [Molluscs, garlic mayonnaise (Eggs)] *Battered halloumi With sweet chilli and spicy yoghurt with a swirl of harissa dips [Milk] *Chicken Goujons and chips 4 / 6 chicken Goujons with chips *Whitebait and chips On a bed of lettuce with either garlic mayo or paprika mayo dip *Falafel (VEGAN) served with salad, chips and sweet chilli dip Childs portion (and for those not so hungry!) *Battered cod fillet served with chips, tartare sauce and lemon [Fish, Tartare sauce (egg, mustard)] *Jumbo sausage and chips (Soya) *Small Chips *Large Chips *Mushy peas *Curry sauce *Celery *Sticky toffee pudding (events and private hire) Served with Roddas Cornish Clotted Cream (Milk, egg) The ticket price will be £10 per head, £2 of which will go directly to the Village Hall. BYO drinks. Come and support your Village Hall and have an enjoyable evening as well. Would you please contact me, [email protected], and indicate numbers required, we need to sell tickets to at least 30 people to make it viable.

22 Friends of Longhope Church

KNITTED TEDDIES

A big thank you once more to all those dedicated knitters who continue to knit teddies for the children in Nicaragua, one of the poorest countries in the world. The children are so delighted that “it is like Christmas”, I am told, when they receive a teddy, for they have so little. You are all doing a great job!

Liz Moseley

ALL SAINTS’ CHURCH LIBRARY, LONGHOPE

I have been delighted to receive various batches of lovely Christian books for the Library Table in church. They are such an inspiration, and thank you for sharing them with others. Both children’s and adults’ books are much appreciated.

Liz Moseley

23 Longhope News

LONGHOPE PARISH COUNCIL There are currently three vacancies on Longhope parish council, and the council will be looking to co-opt three new councillors at their January meeting. If you live or work in Longhope parish and would like to put your name forward, please email us on [email protected] with some details about yourself, saying what your interests are and what you feel you would bring to the role of a parish councillor.

The major project for the council at present is supporting the development of a community land trust (CLT) to provide more affordable rented housing in the parish. Longhope CLT is in the process of being constituted as a legal entity, and we are already working with the landowner of a site on Church Road. You can find more details about the project and how to get involved on the parish council website at https:// longhopeparishcouncil.com/community-land-trust/.

As part of this project, there will shortly be a new housing needs survey to help confirm exactly what kind of houses may be required. The survey forms should be coming through the post in mid-January, please would you help the project by completing the survey and returning it to Gloucestershire Rural Community Council in the Freepost envelope provided.

The next meeting of the parish council will be in the Latchen Room on Monday 20th January 2020 from 7 pm.

Longhope parish council meets in the Latchen Room from 7 pm on the third Monday of every month – except August and December.

Minutes of the meetings, planning application details and other information are available on the parish council’s website at www.longhopeparishcouncil.com.

24 Longhope News

Longhope Family Service - The Message of the Angels

On Sunday 8th December a group of 14 children and a good number of adults enjoyed our Family Service Advent Workshop. The children enjoyed learning new songs, making angel cut-outs, decorating biscuits and hearing about the Angel Gabriel’s visit to Mary as well as the message of the angels to the shepherds during story time. We had a fantastic group of helpers including those who provided drinks, sandwiches and cakes. A big thank you to all who took part and helped in a variety of ways.

Our next Family Service is on Sunday January 12th when the Three Wise Men will appear with their gifts. We shall recite the following poem during our worship:-

When he is King we shall give him a King’s gifts Myrrh for its sweetness, and gold for a crown Beautiful robes, said the young girl to Joseph Fair with her first born on Bethlehem Down Bethlehem Down is full of the starlight Winds for the spices, and stars for the gold Mary for sleep, and for lullaby music Songs of the shepherd by Bethlehem fold When he is King they will cloth Him in grave sheets Myrrh for embalming, and wood for a crown He that lies now in the white arms of Mary Sleeping so lightly on Bethlehem Down Here He has peace and a short while for dreaming Close-huddled oxen to keep Him from cold Mary for love, and for lullaby music Songs of a shepherd by Bethlehem Down

Do come and join us Clive Edmonds

25 Longhope News

FAUNA & FLORA INTERNATIONAL COFFEE MORNING

Our next coffee morning will take place on Saturday, 18th January, at the Latchen Room, Longhope, GL17 0QE, from 10 am till 12 noon.

This article is being written before the general election takes place. It's interesting to compare the pledges which the main parties have made regarding planting trees in the coming years. The Conservatives have promised 1.5 million trees per year, Labour one million trees per year, and the Liberal Democrats a modest 600,000.

Whichever party gets in, we hope they honour their pledge as one of many essential ingredients in the fight against climate change. The good news is that huge tree planting operations are going on around the world in many countries.

For example, Pakistan held the record in 2013 by planting 847,000 trees in 24 hours. Then in 2016 India planted 50 million trees in 24 hours. But more recently Ethiopia smashed the record by planting 350 million trees in 12 hours. Ethiopia's goal is to plant four billion trees around the country. (It makes you wonder where they get them all.)

At our coffee morning this month we welcome Ceri and Darren Mann, coming to talk to us about entomology, (the study of insects), a subject in which they both have masters' degrees. This is a fascinating topic because, as we all know, without insects there would be no other life on the planet. Do come along, and if you like, bring some interesting questions to ask Ceri and Darren.

See you there, Elizabeth Orr.

26 Longhope News

Café Bonnies Cafe Bonnies on Saturday 7th December was the first of our 14th year of fundraising for Latchen Room. The Rainbows had a stall in the corner selling a variety of items and they entertained us with some Christmas carols, enjoyed by everyone. Thank you all of you for you lovely singing. The raffle was very popular and we were able to make up 12 hampers with the generous contributions we had received before and on the day. We made a profit of £368 which was especially exciting as our profits have now exceeded £30,000, an amazing achievement. Thank you to everyone who has contributed over the years. It has been a real community effort.

It was also the beginning of the new 100 Club year and 82 people were entered in the first draw. Last year's profit was £588.50 which was donated to the Friends of Longhope Church towards their fundraising for path and lighting improvements at All Saints Church. The same amount was given out in prizes. We are hoping to exceed 100 members again this year so if you would like to join or you haven't paid this year's £12 please let Margaret have it.

Next month, Cafe Bonnies is on Saturday January 4th and the stall will be unloved Christmas presents.

Thank you for your continued support.

100 Club 1. 147 - Claire Gacek 2. 35 - Linda Edmonds 3. 80 - Jon Richardson

27 May Hill News May Hill WI Visitors always welcome

For further details email: [email protected] Tel: Anne 01452 831271 or Liz 01452 830899 May Hill WI meet at May Hill Village Hall monthly on the 4th Tuesday at 7.30pm

January 24th - We welcome Phil Muggridge a wildlife photography from the Forest of Dean who will be telling us about his travels in Indonesia and showing us the photographs he took during the trip.

February 25th - We welcome Jane Jackson who will giving a talk about Motec Life UK and volunteering in Ghana for the medical charity.

In November we were entertained by our local fun living flower arranger Bob Harris. Bob gave us a talk about the different types of foliage and flowers that can be used for flower arrangements whilst demonstrating making 4 different types of Christmas flower arrangements. He made it looked so easy and the results were beautiful. The talk was followed by our AGM.

Come along anytime and enjoy good company, talks, fun and outings.

May Hill Gardening Society

Our first meeting for 2020 takes the form of a lunch at Pengethley Nursery on Wednesday 15th January at 12-30pm. The programme for the New Year will then be distributed. Clive Edmonds

On the evening of Thursday 10th October, Leeways Packaging Services Ltd were delighted, and honored, not only to have been short listed for two awards in the GloucestershireLive Business Awards, held at Cheltenham Racecourse, but to actually walk away as winners of the “Family Business Award 2019” – which was sponsored by Willians LLP Solicitors. The glittering black tie event celebrated the incredible achievements made by companies who really do put Gloucestershire on the map, drive the region’s economy and keep the area at the top of the tree when it comes to entrepreneurship and business success. Thanks to both the sponsors and well-respected judges, the Leeways team were overwhelmed to receive this much wanted “Family Business award” and felt privileged to have been part of the three finalists shortlisted for the “Business Innovation Award” also. Leeways Packaging was founded in 1971 by Trevor Walding, and later passed to his son Anthony Walding, who grew the company from strength to strength until taking a back seat in 2015. The company is now run by his sons Adam and Lee Walding as Finance Director and Managing Director respectively who are now taking it to the next level. The company has been passed down three generations and although retaining its wholly owned family status, it is proud to be a large independent employer for the region – employing over 130 people between its 3 sites spread over West Gloucestershire and the Forest of Dean. Leeways are proud to shout out that they have so many long serving employees, 18 of the staff have done over 15 years’ service, 419 years’ service in total, this is also what you call “Family”. Adam Walding says: “Being named Family Business of the year is really important to us. We run a business in a very challenging industry with the use of plastics under a huge amount of scrutiny. Therefore, we’re working incredibly hard to continue building on what our grandfather started nearly 50 years ago. We believe our success is a testament to the strong family values that drive the business and the hard work and dedication of everyone who works with us”

…………………….Continued on page 30

Lee continued, “We are delighted to have received this award and are immensely proud that our family owned company has been recognised. We pride ourselves in being innovators. Leeways have recently invested in the installation of 1740 solar panels and the purchase of “green” electricity. This certainly addresses our “Green” agenda and we continue to question the environmental impact through the products we make and the workplace we manufacture in, increasing sustainability along way, looking into the future and the next steps that we can take to protect our environment”. Leeways Packaging Services Ltd work with some of the biggest names in the food retail sector and have set themselves apart by providing bespoke and sustainable packaging designs. Its efforts to become a more sustainable manufacturer was also recognised by the Processing and Packaging Machinery Association (PPMA) Awards when this year we were named as finalists in its “Environmental Initiative of the Year” category.

Directors: Adam, Kim & Lee Walding

Creative TYLERS MEMORIALS Needles (SM, SJ, & RJ Tyler)

Knitting & Crochet Yarns Memorials supplied and fitted Patterns & Accessories Hand carved/sandblasted Haberdashery ~ Ribbons ~ lettering Lace ~ Threads Renovations undertaken

Visit us at Harts Barn FURNACE LANE NEWENT Craft Centre, Longhope Tel: 01452 831725 01531 820474 www.enricointeriors.co.uk

Local Business?

Advertise here to reach up to 700 new customers

Just email Angela at [email protected]

Do you want to advertise to 700 readers?

Just email Angela at [email protected]

SMITHS FUNERAL SERVICES (KJ, PJ, SM, SJ & RJ Tyler)

Independent Family Funeral Directors 24 hour personal attention Home Visits Private Chapels of Rest in Newent & Gloucester Pre-payment Funeral Plans Advice on eco-friendly Funerals Memorials supplied and fitted FURNACE LANE, NEWENT, GLOS GL18 1DD 01531 820474

34 ALISON MOBILE HAIR & NAILS Margaret’s

Ladies, Gents, Children & OAP’s Over 30 yrs Experience Huntley

Manicure & Pedicure “CND Shellac”, Gel nails-last 2/3 (Old Police Station) weeks. Mini Manicure-file shape Polish

All in the comfort of your own home. Your Without Salon Prices. Ladies & Gents Professional, friendly and reliable. Hairdresser For more information call Alison Tel: 01452 831253 Mob: 07786 383705 T: 01452 830486

A member of: Associated Beauty Therapists

FEET FIRST HEALTHCARE FOR FEET Tina Morgan MCFHP MAFHP FOOT HEALTH PRACTITIONER

Nail Cutting, including treatment of fungal and reduction of thickened nails Callus & Corn removal

Treatment of Cracked Heels General and Diabetic foot care

To arrange an appointment in the comfort of your own home

Telephone: 07738339879 - 01989769421 Email: [email protected]

35 D. M. P. Decorators Interior/Exterior/Domestic/Commercial Quality Work/Sensible Price Fully Insured. Fascia, Guttering & all Watergoods Supplied and Fitted General Property Maintenance

Orchard Flat, Beeches, Upton Bishop, Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire, HR9 7UD References always available from satisfied local customers.

Please phone for a no obligation quote or for advice.

07881 786868/01989 562819

ABFAB FLOORING 19 Market Street, Cinderford, Glos. GL14 2RT [email protected] Established 2004 Business award winner 2006, 2008, 2010. Here at ABFAB flooring we take pride in what we do and we care what you think. We value old and new customers. • We sell Carpets, Vinyls, Laminates and rugs. • We offer a free no obligation home selection and quote service. • We offer uplift of old floor coverings and move of furniture if you need help (on request). • We offer a 10% discount for OAPs on all floor coverings. • We offer a professional and friendly fitting service. SO PLEASE GIVE US A CALL ON 01594 827272 OPENING HOURS: MONDAY—FRIDAY 9AM—5PM SATURDAY 9AM—NOON SEE US ON THE BEST OF THE FOREST OF DEAN WEBSITE AND LOOK AT OUR TESTIMONIALS

37 ELECTRICIAN Your qualified Domestic Electrician

• Fully qualified and insured • Very reasonable rates • Reliable and friendly • Prompt attention • Free quotations • Small or large electrical jobs undertaken • Portable Appliance Testing • Full testing and certification provided

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Do you want to advertise to 700 readers?

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Domestic Electrical Work

 All types of work undertaken – no job too small  Reasonable charges  Quotations provided at no obligation  Registered as an authorised installer with the Government Office for Low Emission Vehicles* *If you are considering an electric vehicle charge point you may be entitled to a grant towards the cost of the work. Only registered installers can access this funding. Contact me to find out more.

To request a quotation call Kevin Willis on 07909 831771

John Francis Plumbing Ltd

*Air to Air Heat Pumps * Leak & Drips *Ground source Heat pumps* Thermal Solar * Bathroom Installation *Central Heating Installation *Boiler Upgrades *Power-flushing* Diverter Vales* Central Heating Pumps* Programmable Room Stats *Burst Pipes* Air Locks* Ball Valves* Stop Cocks* Taps* Toilets* Tanks* Overflows *Washing Machines* Dish Washers* Water Dispensers* Immersion Heaters *Cylinders * Pumps * Macerators* Showers

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Tel:- 01452 750040 Mobile:- 07803 632553 Longcroft, Churcham, Gloucestershire, GL2 8AW

FEN by Post!

If you plan to move away and would still like to receive a copy of FEN (or if you know someone who has already moved and would be interested) please contact Angela Pengelly. www.glennthechimneysweep.co.uk Her details are on the USEFUL [email protected] CONTACTS PAGE 10. I cover a 20 mile radius from the Forest of Dean including Hereford, Cheltenham, Gloucester, Lydney, Monmouth, Chepstow, Ross-on-Wye, We have several readers who Ledbury and surrounding areas. enjoy receiving their copy of the magazine by post.

Power or Traditional Sweeping ● Installation & Repair Servicing And Maintenance ● Installation of Cowls Carbon Monoxide Alarms ● Weddings Attended Stove Installer

Stone End Kitchen Churcham Good quality, home prepared food for all occasions at affordable prices. Also china, linen, cutlery and 50 seat party tent to hire. Wedding & party Cakes to order. Enquiries to: Wendy Lewis 01452 750156

The Kings Head Inn, Birdwood, Nr Huntley, Gloucestershire, GL19 3EF 01452 750348 £3.99 Weekday Roast ‘Special’ 2 & 3 Course Senior Citizen Menu Monday-Saturday (except Bank Holidays) 2 Course Sunday Roasts 8 Accommodation Room, all en-suite priced from £40 (inc Breakfast) Funeral Receptions (various buffet options available) FOOD SERVED MON-FRI 12-3pm & 6-9pm SAT & SUN 12-9pm www.kingshead-birdwood.co.uk Email- [email protected]

43 JOHN HALL OF CHURCHAM

For a complete Funeral Service in any district

Private Chapels of Rest Memorials

01452 750489

For Prompt Attention Day or Night