FULMER NEWSLETTER JUNE 2017 – Issue 61 www.fulmervillage.org

LIST OF ADVERTISERS

Chiropody, Adriana Rozek 01753 652754

Hamptons Estate Agents, 01753 886464

Physio – Jill Frew 01753 643238

South Bucks Physio, 01753 664114

Stoke Poges Memorial Gardens 01753 523744

We are very grateful to our advertisers, many of whom have been supporting the Newsletter for a number of years. Please remember to tell any of the advertisers that you have seen their advert here. The advertising income with a contribution from the Parish Council helps us fund the Newsletter and secure its future.

If anyone would like to advertise in a future issue, please contact

Susie Simkins on 662537 or by email to [email protected]

INTRODUCTION

Welcome to the 61st Edition of the Newsletter – as always we have a good mix of familiar articles updating villagers on what is happening in all areas and some very interesting personal pieces, which we love to include. If anyone feels that they would like to write something please do get in touch.

As always at this time of year we are keeping Fulmer looking tidy and neat for the Best Kept Village judging. We are sure, like others in the village, you are all finding more litter being dropped around our lanes and roads, which is a repeated nuisance. Our Conservation Volunteers can only do so much – and they are performing a sterling job in cutting and tidying footpaths, hedges and much more. We hope everyone will do their bit to keep Fulmer looking great throughout the year.

Sadly the Annual Parish Meeting in May was very under-supported by the village. It would be so nice to see more people come along (it is usually the second Tuesday in May, 8pm, Village Hall) and hear what has been happening in the previous 12 months in the parish and enjoy meeting the Parish Councillors over wine and nibbles afterwards. It is usually only around one hour so hopefully there will be a better turnout in 2018!

Thanks are due to our regular, long-standing advertisers and the people who help us deliver this newsletter to you.

Susie & Ronnie Simkins – Editors

Fulmer Day – 1 July 2017 Fulmer Day is fast approaching and this year’s event is going to be bigger and better than ever. There will be activities for everyone whatever their age. Remember, the road will be closed from 11.30am - 6pm with activities starting from 1.30pm.

Last year we raised more than £4,800 for local charities and good causes. Some of those that we helped included: Second Hope, DASH, MPS (Amersham), Carers Bucks, Leonard Cheshire, Fulmer Village Hall and King Georges Field.

The emphasis this year is on family fun and we have a range of activities for all ages from bungee trampolines to the popular petting zoo, there will be lots of new stalls to keep the shoppers busy too! Alternatively, catch up with family and friends in the Black Horse garden or at the bar whilst enjoying a delicious burger from the BBQ.

The Black Horse continues to sponsor our event and we appreciate all the support Howard, Rachel and Jane provide, along with their fantastic hard working team. The party will be in full swing throughout the afternoon with the kid’s amusements in the pub car park as usual.

So please do join us for a fantastic day, encourage your family and friends to join in and have lots of fun. We look forward to welcoming you – Darren (Fulmer Day Committee)

LIST OF DUTIES IN FULMER PARISH

Michael Saxby Chairman – transport/highways/minerals & waste Plans/finance group/core strategy ([email protected]) 01753 662020

Parm Khanghura Deputy Chairman - Planning matters/finance group [email protected] 01753 662179

Ronnie Lamb FSCA Executive Committee/finance group ([email protected]) 01753 662662

Susie Simkins Editor of Newsletter/ Gazetteer/press/liaison Fun Day ([email protected]) 01753 662537

Francesca Fulmer Village Website. St. James’ Fulmer/website Hall-Drinkwater ([email protected]) 01753 662295

Jo Beardsworth Communication issues ([email protected])

Christine Owen liaison, Fulmer Infant School rep ([email protected])

Peter Kelly Parish Clerk, Finance Officer, Finance Group. Council Administration matters; FSCA; Notice Board; Allotments; ([email protected])

O T H E R S

Richard Marshall BKV, FCV, Paths/Fulmer Conservation Volunteers [email protected]

Barbara Zoltowoska Fulmer Village Hall Chairman [email protected]

District Councillor Malcolm Bradford [email protected]

County Councillor Roger Reed – ([email protected])

Brian Weild Neighbourhood Watch; Police Liaison; Community Liaison - [email protected]

Karen Nelms Village Hall Lettings Secretary 07498 0412953 PERSONALIA

Deaths – Burials – Ashes - we send sympathy to the families of: Mildred Bessie Hutton who died on 8 December 2016. Her ashes were interred alongside her husband George, sister Patricia and grandson Laurence in the family plot at St James, Fulmer on 26 January 2017. This day would have been her 100th birthday.

Sylvia Hornibrook who died on 8 December 2016 and whose memorial service took place in St James, Fulmer on 4 January 2017. A tribute to her follows.

Evelyn Elizabeth (Betty) Pearce who died on 9 December 2016 and whose memorial service took place at St James, Fulmer on 16 January 2016. A tribute to her follows.

Elizabeth Guinness who died on 8 February and a service of Thanksgiving took place at St James, Fulmer on 22 February. A tribute to her follows.

Marriages – we congratulate Grace Abigail Beaton and Daniel James Gilmour-Jones of Hounds Gate, Nottingham married on 29 April 2017. Grace is the daughter of Catherine & James Beaton and granddaughter of Anne & Ian Trott of Fulmer Gardens House.

Newcomers – we welcome Anthony, Rebecca and George (2) Plaskett who have come to live in Cherry Tree Lane

Achievements – we congratulate Colin Simpson of Court House who has received the prestigious Diamond Award from the English Bridge Union. The award recognises excellence and success over a sustained period whilst representing ’s International teams. Colin is a Senior World and European Champion, having won those events in 2009 and 2014 respectively. These were among his eight appearances for England’s senior team in major competitions, and he played for the Open team in five major championships in the early part of the millennium. He also represented England numerous times in the Camrose and Telscher Trophy competitions. For more information see www.ebu.co.uk then either the Diamond Award or Colin Simpson.

ELIZABETH GUINNESS (September 1925 – February 2017)

‘You can shed tears that she is gone, or you can smile because she has lived’

After five bedridden years unable to speak or recognise any of us, Elizabeth died peacefully on 8 February in her own bed and in her own home with her two daughters and myself standing beside that bed. Unhesitatingly her family decided that it was the ‘smile option’ they would adopt and so with the help of Jill Roth, our Priest in Charge, we devised a Service of Thanksgiving combined with Hope to commemorate her life with us. This took place in Fulmer Church on 22 February with six members of her family participating. It was a remarkable tribute to her that at the start of the service it was ‘standing room only’ in the Church.

Elizabeth was born in 1925 in the Black Country – the West Midlands, where her father was Chairman of the Wolverhampton and Dudley Breweries (someone once quipped that our children must have more beer than blood in their veins!). In her education she shone in the academic subjects but also developed a talent as an artist and as a sculptress. On being called up for Wartime Service she joined the staff side of a large Rehabilitation Centre for Service Personnel & Coalminers recently discharged from hospital. To save on precious wartime petrol she would drive to work in a pony and trap. She was an active Young Conservative. I sensed that she was much more interested in local affairs than what was happening on the national and international scene.

Elizabeth and I met at the Grand National (where else?) in 1947, shortly after I had been demobbed and completed my Brewing Apprenticeship in the Guinness Dublin Brewery. In 1950 she was a bridesmaid at her brother’s wedding at a time when I was convalescent from a major operation. It gave us a providential opportunity to get to know each other and we were married at Albrighton Church in June 1951. We set up house together in Templewood Lane, . Elizabeth proved a great homemaker and had learned enough from a very experienced gardener for her to supply the brain and I the brawn in the first garden we made together. Her knowledge of wild flowers and birds greatly enhanced walks and holidays we took together.

Charlotte and Henrietta were born in Windsor in 1955 and 1957 and when I was posted to become the first Guinness Northern Sales Manager in 1959, Diana followed, born in Chester in 1961. This move necessitated setting up a new house near Chester and establishing new office in Chester itself. Speed was essential but Elizabeth coped with the furnishing and decoration of both which were much admired in the result.

On our return to the South, I rejoined the Fulmer Parochial Church Council becoming Vice Chairman to the Rector. On the death of Lillian Charlton, the Verger, the Ladies of the Church Council undertook to take on the responsibility for cleaning the church on a voluntary basis. Elizabeth, with Gill Jonas, the wife of a well-known paediatrician, agreed to set up and monitor the rota. They had 23-27 volunteers engaged in this. Elizabeth with Lady Laing and one other also became the local fundraisers for the Lord Mayor Treloar’s School & College for handicapped children at Froyle in Hampshire.

In 1980 I became President of the Licensed Victuallers’ National Homes based at the Denham Garden Village in . It had 32 estates of bungalows and flats to accommodate 1100 Pub Licensees and their dependents when they retired from the trade. Elizabeth gave me great support throughout my year as we visited each estate throughout England and Wales, opened two new estates in Cambridge and South Wales, attended a host of fund-raising events culminating in the Annual Convention, in our case, on the island of Jersey, which was attended by over a thousand members. On each occasion we followed the normal ritual whereby the President, Chairman and Chair of the Ladies’ Committee with their spouses and a retinue of Senior Staff, the first three wearing their spectacular and historic chains of office (known as the Chain Gang). Elizabeth could sense that while this gave great pleasure, it was a somewhat daunting experience for the elderly residents. As the Chain Gang departed, she would lag a little behind and pointing to a photograph ask “is that your grandson? Tell me about him” and a very relaxed conversation would ensue. Frequently we had to send out search parties to find her, but her endearing reputation in this respect went before her and made her an ideal President’s wife.

At the end of my Presidential year the L.V.N.H. Medical Officer, David Milward asked Elizabeth to join him in forming a Stroke Club for the residents in the nursing home, those afflicted thus and each week she would assist individual patients with their physical exercises and word puzzles, the aim being to prevent brains and bodies becoming atrophied by lack of use. Joyfully she would then organise the Garden Party we held at Huyton Fold for the Stroke club and the following day for the Church Cleaners.

Again in 1991 when I became Vice President to the Duke of Kent for the same organisation, she gave me her enthusiastic support. Three years earlier she accompanied me for a tour to cities on the Eastern Seaboard of America where I was promoting a new Guinness product. Elizabeth had never been to America before and it excited her mightily.

After her death one might have been forgiven if one’s memory had been coloured by seeing her each day of those five bedridden years, helplessly in the grip of a cruel disease. But then almost immediately the letters and the cards came, reminiscing of happier times. They have testified to her loving nature, her compassion and care for others, her sense of fun, the welcome to strangers as warm as to her own, her loving guardianship of her own immediate family and the large extended one, her love of Fulmer Church and Women’s Fellowship and those associated with it, her joy in the garden which in the main we had created and outside the garden her knowledge of wild flowers and birds, her gentleness, her sincerity and her loyalty. And all this is why we Smile and do not weep.

Edward Guinness

Sylvia Hornibrook (19 November 1918 - 8 December 2016)

It was with great sadness that we recently said goodbye to Sylvia Hornibrook, beloved mother to Sara, and a much loved friend to so many of us. In fact, it’ll be hard to imagine Fulmer without her. Sylvia was part of the fabric of our village and for those of us lucky enough to have called her our friend, she was one of the kindest and most supportive friends you could meet. She was a true and absolute lady, in every sense of the word. A great conversationalist, with stories and events of a life fully lived, but as interested in hearing our own news which many of us so enjoyed sharing with her. Sylvia was also a super mimic of a few of our fellow villagers (!) with a gracefully mischievous sense of humour, a laugh that could ring around the room, and could make the moment of: “I’m just popping in for a quick cup of tea…” turn into “Where did that afternoon go?!” Time always flew in her wonderful company.

Sylvia was born in Harefield, Middlesex in 1918, and attended St Mary’s School in Harefield. In 1940, she married Geoffrey Wallace and moved to Gerrards Cross with Geoffrey’s 17 month old son Alan, who Sylvia looked after as her own, with Sara, their daughter, being born at the end of the war, completing the family. In the autumn of 1940, Sylvia enrolled in the Voluntary Aid Detachment Unit in Fulmer, (VAD), and volunteered as a nurse at the wartime maternity home for wives & officers, based at Fulmer Chase. She was in fact decorated as a nurse there, though never revealed why. On one occasion, she recalled a visit from Clemmie Churchill which caused some excitement, and had many memories of her time there helping with the babies’ laundry & other chores, though a little disappointed at the few opportunities given to care for newborn babies as “proper” nurses were in charge of those duties. She later moved to Chalfonts Hospital, working as a theatre nurse to Dr Hornibrook, someone whom she would marry many years later.

Sylvia had so many varied interests in her life. Her love of flowers led her to reorganise the Gerrards Cross Floral Art Club in the 1950s, becoming, first, their new Chairman, and then their President, and was delighted to have been invited to the now renamed, Flower Club’s, recent 50th anniversary celebrations. She also had a passion and extraordinary working knowledge of antiques, working for Liz Quilter Antiques of Old Amersham from the mid 70s, right up until her 80th birthday!

Very sadly she was widowed for a second time, just a year after marrying Dr Hornibrook. Sylvia then moved to her beloved Fulmer in 1977, Silver Jubilee Year, and lived at The Old Post Office Cottage for over 40 years. She became an active participant in all aspects of our village life – serving on the Parish Council under the Chairmanship of Mr Edward Guinness; being a longstanding member of the Village Hall Committee, to being Highways & Byways Warden with Christine Mudd. Their joint tenacity and commitment to restoring our footpaths, led to the installation of the signposting we have in the village today, and having the footpaths published in a local walking map.

She continued her keen participation and pride in our Best Kept Village Competition, right up until last year, looking over the lost marks with some disappointment and offering a few misgivings about the judges’ comments! Sylvia was a very keen sports fan, she loved watching the tennis, the Olympics, but above all, she adored horses, and was at her happiest in their presence. She undertook a wonderful trip with friends to the New Forest in her 96th year to see the new born foals and was delighted that a curious pony put his head right through her rolled down window to say hello – with an unforgettable photo to mark the occasion!

She keenly watched and followed the Dressage, cheering on Sophie Christiansen whose career she closely followed, often seeing Sophie’s horsebox pass by her cottage window on its way to Fulmer’s Riding for the Disabled Association, of which she was also a vociferous supporter and frequent visitor, even up until last year. One of her happiest recent memories was having the opportunity of meeting Sophie and seeing her medal winning horses Prosecco and Rio, at the Fulmer Rec after their Paralympic success – a special day for us all in Fulmer!

Sylvia loved Fulmer, and her cottage at its fulcrum. For many of us, she was the first person to take the time to visit and welcome us “newbies” into the village and we’ve never forgotten how that moment of warm inclusivity made us feel. She was determinedly independent for so much of her life and unimaginably fearless, when in her in her 80s, confronted by two burglars who had broken into her bedroom – she simply and calmly asked them to leave – and they did!

She adored Fulmer’s natural setting and we in turn admired her grit & determination in walking through the fields and lanes every single day, in all weathers, and always in stylish headscarves & earrings, putting the rest of us to some shame! Sylvia loved sharing observations from her walks, noting the changes of season… the glorious autumnal red and gold of the leaves and berries, the winter’s mist rising over Low Farm fields, making it look like a Japanese water colour; the “splendid display” of Colin Griffin’s daffodils at the end of Hay Lane, or the summer’s cow parsley there, with their dancing heads like ballerinas. We saw Sylvia over the years, first walking confidently, then perhaps not so ably, then accompanied in her chair – but frankly, we know she’d have been happy to be put in a wheelbarrow, if she could just get down Hay Lane to see what was happening! She would nurture and feed any birds or wildlife that came to visit her garden and she loved to hear that summer was on its way as the goldfinches had returned, or that a family of pheasants were paying visits to gardens in Hay Lane.

But for all Sylvia’s interests and activities, what we, her friends, most remember her for, was her kind and empathetic soul, and her young-at-heart approach that could connect to us all. Her warmth and unfailing support would buoy us up in difficult times. Her gentle counsel and wisdom on these occasions were irreplaceable, and are deeply missed. She understood our vulnerabilities but also openly and unreservedly delighted in our good fortunes and our joys, adding her own layers of happiness to them.

Maya Angelou once said: In time, people will forget what you said, In time, people will forget what you did, But people will never forget how you made them feel.

Sylvia was our village campaigner, our neighbour, our dearest loving friend. She has woven herself permanently into our hearts and into the fabric of our village life forever. On behalf of Sara Fearns & all of Sylvia’s friends in Fulmer Anya Whitehead

Family Memories of Betty Pearce (1912-2016)

Betty Pearce was brought up on the Essex/Suffolk borders in Great Horkesley, where she and her elder sister had a happy country childhood, surrounded by farmland, with most of their friends and relatives being farmers. They had a governess and then later went to school in Colchester, four miles away, initially being driven by their step-sister, Mary, in the family pony and trap.

From an early age, Betty had always taken a keen interest in their large garden and, on leaving school at 17, she went to the East Anglian Institute of Agriculture (later Writtle College) in Chelmsford, to do a degree level course in horticulture. After working at the Priory in Orpington, now a museum, she went to work at Heronsbrook, Sunningdale, where she and another lady gardener ran a large garden, with Betty responsible for the ornamental part.

It was then that she met her future husband, Hugh, at a local tennis club. They had much in common, as he was also a countryman, an expert on birds, a good shot and a keen fisherman. Shortly after they married in 1936, whilst visiting friends in Alderbourne Lane, they were told that there was land for sale in Parkspring, Fulmer. The result was that they bought the square half- acre plot and had a house built on it - Glen Erica, Cherry Tree Lane. They moved in 6 months before World War II was declared. While Hugh was in a Reserved Occupation and a member of the Home Guard, Betty had the wives of serving officers to stay in the final stages of their pregnancy before having their babies delivered at Fulmer Chase.

During and after the war, the couple spent a considerable amount of time developing their home gradually increasing the amount of cultivated garden and living almost entirely off their own produce including keeping chickens. Betty made curtains, lampshades, furnishings and clothes for the family, as well as helping Hugh to fell trees and uproot stumps to provide the basis for the garden, which was so enjoyed by us 3 daughters and any visitors.

During the next 35 years Betty still found time to drive for Meals on Wheels, send parcels of reading material to the forces overseas and to work in the WRVS shop at the newly opened Wexham Park Hospital.

Hugh died in 1973, but Betty was loathe to leave Glen Erica, despite the continuing battle against various pests, especially the grey squirrels, moles and muntjac deer. Friends and relatives were always welcome, usually leaving with plants or produce from the garden and fortified by one of her legendary teas with plenty of cakes, scones and jam (all home-made) which together with the annual marmalade making continued until the year she died. After suffering a spinal stroke at the age of 98, causing partial paralysis, she was determined to keep her mind and body active with daily wheel chair exercises, getting around the garden on her golf buggy and keeping herself up to date using her iPad as a reference tool. In the end her body simply couldn't keep up with her positive and determined attitude to life and she passed away in her own bedroom of 77 years, with her family around her in December 2016 at the age of 104.

Her last birthday party on 31 July 2016 sums up the happy family memories. 4 generations including 8 great grandchildren had tea and played games in the beautiful garden which she and Hugh had created out of woodland.

OF Fence

Fences brown and fences grey Now spread along the leafy way, No more a glimpse of gardens bright With jostling petals that delight, But just the wooden fence and gates, No matter that their blankness states, “Keep Out! Why should the locals see Our velvet lawn and friendly tree?”

The fence excludes, the hedge inspires The spirit lifts at floral choirs Arrayed to sing their colours clear But, ranked behind those timbers sheer They cannot help one to embrace All of Fulmer’s charm and grace, Because those sullen walls arise To blind the view and dull the eyes

Oh pity, pity each lost view A glimpse of Eden just for you Now, passing boundaries once so fair No longer can one still declare, “How lovely, ah, that’s such a pleasure to behold that acre’s measure” Those pretty scenes have lost their place That fence just looms there – in your face.

Ken Peters

ST JAMES’ FULMER, Friday 16 JUNE 7.30pm ‘Celebration of Summer Tickets (no charge) are available from: Diana Mann (886665) or Fiona Gray (662209)

Iver Heath Health Centre, Trewarden Ave, , SL0 0SB 07966 426627/01753 652754 And: Chiropody Clinic & Footcare, 1b Oaklands Grove, Shepherds Bush Tel: 020 8749 3456 Authorised Stockist of

HIGHWAYS The County budget for road maintenance in 2017/18 is £15 million. How this will be allocated by the new Unitary Authority, remains to be seen. Meantime, if you see a defect in a road or pavement, make direct contact with the people who can do something about it - Transport for Buckinghamshire website or Email: www.buckscc.gov.uk/tell TfB Phone: Monday to Friday, office hours 01296 382416. Out of hours and weekends 01296 486630 Rights of Way problems: phone as above. Street Names. Unauthorised signs and changes. Contact as above. Fly Tipping. Contact District Council: 01895 837362

Lighting Defects. It is important to note the lighting standard’s number and then report this to Peter Kelly, our Parish Clerk on 01628 628183 or email: [email protected]

Michael Saxby

Unitary Authority U what? It’s all about merging District and County Councils to achieve economies and greater efficiency. Bucks CC (BCC) has responsibility for fifteen services, DC (SBDC) seven. A number of these overlap, witness: BCC – transport & roads, buses, rights of way, development schemes, waste disposal. SBDC- road names, parking, planning, building control, waste collection. The options were for one, two or three authorities. Perhaps unsurprisingly, BCC opted for one. SBDC, which has already merged some services with Chiltern DC, (CDC) originally went for three, with SBDC and CDC being one of them; the others being & High Wycombe, and north Bucks. In the end they opted for two – north and south Bucks. The final decision rests with the Secretary of State, who originally planned to give judgement at the end of March, then changed to be after the May County elections. Now there is another delay because of the snap election in June. On balance, any decision will be acceptable. One reservation concerns whether there will be adequate consultation for Parishes. Still confused? Join the club. Michael Saxby

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FROM OUR COUNTY COUNCILLOR

You will be aware that I had the privilege of being re-elected as the County Councillor for Denham, Fulmer and Gerrards Cross East on 4 May. I appreciate being given your trust again, and I will continue to work hard to ensure that although a small village, Fulmer will receive at least its fair share of County Council’s resources.

I am able to report that following an election on 5 May, Martin Tett was re- elected as Leader of the Council.

The biggest single issue facing us all over the last year has been the re- organisation of local government within Buckinghamshire. A proposal for a single Unitary authority based on the geographical Buckinghamshire boundary was submitted to the Secretary of State in September 2010 by the County Council. The Bucks District Councils were invited by Martin Tett in May 2016 to work together with him, but they declined, choosing instead to submit their own separate proposals, which they failed to do until January 2017. This caused a significant delay in the decision-making process, subsequently aggravated by the decision to call a General Election. A decision will not now be made until the new government has been appointed. I am convinced that the best solution for all residents remains the single unitary option, providing as it does, far great cost benefits and local accountability than the district council proposal. The five Members of Parliament for Buckinghamshire support the business case for the single unitary proposal.

Finances continue to be challenging, although the cost saving programmes instituted in previous years continue to deliver planned benefits. You will be aware that an additional 2.99% was allowed by Government to be added to council tax this year, to help with the ever-increasing cost of Adult Social Care.

Further resources have been taken from reserves to continue with a significant highways maintenance programme.

ROGER REED, County Councillor Denham & Fulmer

FROM OUR DISTRICT COUNCILLOR

South Bucks District Council continues to work jointly with Chiltern District Council to improve the quality of life and reduce the running cost of the Council. This is being achieved by new ways of working in partnership with other local authorities by the sharing of services. Planning options for new developments of housing and commercial buildings for employment generating sites remains a huge challenge for the Council to deliver the proposed Government targets with the launch of the Council’s proposed new local plan, which included options for testing to build on Green Belt Land. This proposal has not been popular with the community. I will continue to support the residents’ wishes and fight against any building in the Green Belt in the Parishes of Fulmer & Wexham.

The new Enforcement team at the Council have taken steps to improve efficiency and working within budget to deliver. Many factors have to be taken into account these include Government and compliance of the legal system.

The Environmental services continue to improve its performance, which includes the waste collection service. Chargeable garden waste service has become very popular for 2017, with changes to the cost now £38 per bin for 12 months on a rolling agreement.

Aylesbury Vale, Chiltern, South Bucks and Wycombe District Councils submitted a joint proposal to the Department for Communities and Local Government for two unitary authorities, based on a north/south split of Buckinghamshire, subject to final stakeholder engagement. The proposal for north and south unitary authorities in Bucks is being made by the four district councils on the firm belief that this approach will not only improve the outcomes for the people of Bucks, but will also provide a solid foundation for service provision and future challenges. I believe the District Council do manage their finances well and deliver a quality service in the District.

I’m the elected member for South Bucks District Council by the residents of both Fulmer and Wexham, I live in the District and share the natural beauty of Buckinghamshire and will continue to support the community.

MALCOLM BRADFORD, District Councillor Fulmer & Wexham

FULMER ALLOTMENTS

This past year has seen only one change around in allotment tenants. The vacancy was snapped up from my waiting list.

I would like to thank all the tenants for maintaining their plots to a good standard and would remind them of the necessity of so doing in order to present a pristine presence not only throughout the year but particularly so during the judging window of the Best Kept Village Competition which this year has been moved and commenced on 1 June and will finish on 7 July.

The panel of judges do take a very keen interest in the allotments and the condition they are in does affect our success in their marking schedule. The other reason for keeping the allotments looking good is for the judging of the Annie Russell-Jones Memorial Cup. In 2016 the winner of the AR-J Cup was Mr Philip Butterworth and the runner-up was Dr A Leon.

Regrettably no one came forward during the year to take over responsibility for forming the Fulmer Allotments’ Tenants’ Association. I am hoping that one of the tenants will offer to continue the initial work started by Sue Taylor and Rohan to continue the work of the Association for the benefit of the tenants.

During the first quarter of this year we have had one or two problems with the central water tap used by the tenants. However, thanks to the good and immediate work carried out by the plumber, we hope the problem is solved.

PETER KELLY

ST JAMES’ FULMER, Friday 16 JUNE 7.30pm ‘Celebration of Summer Tickets (no charge) are available from: Diana Mann (886665) or Fiona Gray (662209)

FULMER CONSERVATION VOLUNTEERS

The last outing of FCV in 2016 was in late November along the upper part of Beeches Way in Fulmer Rise Estate, where the footpath was slightly obstructed. Our first outing in 2017, unfortunately also could not be on the footpaths. We don’t ignore the footpaths, as in many respect FCV owes its existence to its collaboration on the footpaths with the Parish Paths’ Partnership (P3). P3 no longer exists in Buckinghamshire and we do not receive sufficient support and encouragement to contribute to the paths as much as previously. That said, in the interests of our own community we are always ready to do whatever is necessary and within our abilities, hence the work on the Beeches Way last November.

Best Kept Village – Once again, we failed to win the Gurney Cup in 2016 but we did receive a Certificate of Merit. In 2017 our first outing in the village was in early April when we cleared leaves and gave a light pruning to the hedge bordering Orchard House and Fulmer Place, and swept cut and trimmed further towards the motorway bridge on the left side. This was a very superficial hedge trim to keep the narrow path clear for pedestrians as we were aware that any substantial cutting is not permitted at that time of year because of potential disturbance of nesting birds. We have worked on 5 more Saturdays on roadsides picking up litter at the Recreation Ground, Framewood Road, Fulmer Common Road and Windmill Road. Also we have worked hard in the centre of the village and around the Alderbourne Stream. We will continue our efforts up to the judging period and urge all residents to keep their properties and gardens looking their best.

Fulmer Conservation Volunteers – I continue to administer (arrange insurance and write reports for the Annual Parish Meeting and this newsletter) and frequently ask for more volunteers but our number (5 core people) has not increased and I suspect is unlikely to be maintained at the current level.

Historically I would like to acknowledge the fantastic contribution of Don Bannister to our working parties in the past when he was also working for Ronnie Lamb. He had already moved away, but he had made a tremendous contribution on many occasions before that. Sadly I understand that he has now passed away.

If anyone would like to get in touch to offer help it would be very much appreciated and would assist in keeping Fulmer looking as lovely as possible. RICHARD MARSHALL – [email protected] (01753 663432) PLANNING SUMMARY

In the 12 months between 1 April 2016, and the end of April 2017, a total of 74 planning applications for the Parish of Fulmer have been received and reviewed by the Parish Council – an average of 6.1 per month. This represents a marked increase of over 50% in planning applications compared to the same period in the previous year. The process is that the Parish Council is given a few weeks to comment on any planning applications before the South Bucks District planning officers meet and decide finally on each case. The applications received have ranged from permission to fell a single tree, to the construction of completely new houses, extensions and even underground swimming pools. As always, the main priority of the Parish council in providing its views to the District Council Planning Officers has been to protect the village from overdevelopment and to promote development which helps the Parish to continue to function as a participative community, preferring buildings for permanently resident families, over huge ‘mansions’ that can sometimes attract temporary residents. This view remains consistent though we are concerned that planning does not always take into account permanent residents who are part of the community looking to build their family homes and commit to the village.

In the 12 months from 1 April, South Bucks District Council have published decisions on 49 planning applications affecting the Parish of Fulmer. (The difference in number of applications received and decisions made reflects that decisions are not necessarily taken in the same period as the applications are received). Of the 74 decisions published, around half, 37, were permitted (50%), 20 were refused (27%), 2 were determined not to require planning permission (3%), 3 were withdrawn by the applicant (4%) and, in 6 cases, for a Tree Preservation was determined not to be required (8%). There are currently 6 pending decision (8%).

As well as providing commentary on Parish views on the applications, the Parish Council has also been active in trying to drive the resolution of a number of long outstanding Enforcement activities, with only mixed success so far. A number of these enforcements are still being appealed and worked through legal frameworks. Overall, the village continues to have an active planning agenda and the amount of planning applications for such a relatively small Parish positively reflects the desire of people to make their homes in the village and to invest in those homes.

Parm Khanghura – Parish Councillor ‘A Vibrant Community at the Heart of the Village’ Places and events give us a sense of belonging and community and we have a wonderful village community here in Fulmer. We also have a beautiful church, courtesy of Sir Marmaduke Darrell, Master of the King’s Household, and distinguished royal servant to , James I and Charles I. Sir Marmaduke realised that the 12th century church further up the Alderbourne valley in which Fulmer lies, was in the wrong place. He had the original church pulled down and the new church was built and consecrated on the 1st November 1610 at the centre of the village. In the words of the old chronicle, the parishioners were “freed from the offence of summer’s heat, fowle ways, and winter wether”, and from worshipping in a building which had “now grown very old and ruinated”.

St James has been a spiritual centre for over 400 years and will continue to be a vibrant Christ-centred community at the heart of the village. We’re not ‘old or ruinated’ just yet - there have been a few refurbishments in the last few months. The weathervane on the bell tower is refurbished, the church clock has had a facelift, and the clergy and choir vestry refreshed with a new coat of paint and carpets. We have a new noticeboard to publicise services and events and the stone cross on the roof damaged by lightning is being re- made and the floodlights are to be fixed.

We are in a place of new beginnings in the life of our community and I’d love you to be a part of this new chapter with us. We are here as God had intended for the village community and surrounding area for all of life’s events, in joy and in sorrow. Come to a Sunday service at 8 am for the early birds or the 11.15 am for the late-risers. Our services are usually traditional with hymns, Bible readings, and prayers. The Fulmer Church choir provides a musical lead to the worship and there is always a talk from the Bible, which aims to apply the Christian faith to everyday life. Coffee is served after the 11.15 am service on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month and wine and nibbles are provided in the Village Hall on 5th Sundays. Or, say ‘hello’ on a Thursday morning and enjoy fresh coffee with our friendly team from 9–10 am during term-time and visit us on Fulmer Day when the church is open from 1-6 pm and have a go at bell-ringing or playing the organ and also view beautiful flower arrangements.

We also want to offer much more that brings our village community together and at St James Fulmer we have a ‘Celebration of Summer' on 16 June which will start at 7.30pm and tickets (no charge) are available from Diana Mann (886665) or Fiona Gray (662209); a Community Service for the weekend of Fulmer Day on Sunday, 2 July at 11.15 am in the church, then at the Village Hall for the second part of the service with refreshments afterwards. Look out for details of special events happening, including Family Tea parties, Harvest Supper in September at the village hall and much more. Whether you become a part of our regular worshipping community, or join us for special events, you will be sure to receive a warm welcome and we hope that you will find a sense of belonging. Revd Jill Roth, Associate Minister, St James, Fulmer

Fulmer Infant School We have had yet another wonderful year here at Fulmer Infant school with County once more confirming that we are still an ‘outstanding’ school. We have now increased our numbers to 24 per class giving a total of 72 children in the whole school, which is still very small so we can continue to ensure that each child receives the very best education. Over the year we have had CCTV installed and repairs have been made to the external fencing enhancing the security of the site.

In September there will be a Breakfast Club to supplement the range of after school clubs provided and producing much-needed funds for the school. The school hall, which is excellently equipped including a small kitchen, is also hired out for children’s parties. The PA has continued to raise money over the year so that we have been able to replace some of our very old laptops.

Throughout the year the children and families have raised money for many charities including our link school AFE in Honduras, Children in Need and MacMillan Cancer Research to name but a few.

The children’s learning has been enhanced with many fun and exciting trips and activities such as Windsor Castle, a drama workshop, baking at the local Pizza Express, Easter Bonnet parade, Easter Egg hunt, Country dancing, competitive sports with local schools at DCHS and summer and autumn musicals.

We have a wonderful group of volunteers from the local community who support the children’s learning and I am extremely grateful to you all. If you wish to visit the school or enquire about volunteering please do contact the office, 01753 662643, all volunteers are subject to DBS checks. Have a wonderful summer.

Mrs Cathy Hunt, Headteacher

St James, Fulmer

Looking forward……….You may have noticed various building activities at Church as you drive through the village. As Emma mentioned in “Connected”, our Church magazine, the weathervane, which was close to collapse has been repaired and fully restored. The Tower clocks have been completely renovated and the time mechanism automated. The Clergy vestry has been redecorated to make it a more useable office space and meeting area and the Choir vestry has had a tidy and a coat of paint. The Stone cross at the Chancel end of the Church, which was struck by lightning and crumbled, is being remade and will return soon. The boiler entrance area is being made safer and more secure. There will be a new noticeboard and the porch will also have some work to rectify the damp patches and a coat of paint. Surprisingly to some, these activities need permission and depending on the work, a faculty from the Diocese so we are grateful for all effort that has gone into making these improvements happen. Thanks must also go to Sue Fagan for all the work she does in the Church gardens as well as to Sally Freedman and the flower arrangers and cleaners and others who work unseen through the year.

A recap on activities; Looking back to Christmas, as ever, our ‘Carols by Candlelight’ service was very well attended, followed by mulled wine and mince pies in the Village Hall. This year for the Family Nativity on Christmas Eve afternoon we held a Christingle Service, attracting 54 children and 119 adults. Our Christmas Day service was ever popular with many families, friends and visitors. We were pleased to continue the trend of welcoming so many; 709 people across the 5 Christmas services!

In March, we invited Fulmer Ladies to a tea party at The Centre for any who had not met Jill to do so. The organisation headed by Diana Mann and a tasty tea provided by Kirsty Diers! Next in March was Mothering Sunday, a family service with local children and a number from Fulmer Infant School and the Beehive singing and reading.

In April, on Palm Sunday we held another Sunday afternoon Children’s tea party gathering in several families in the Village and surrounds. Children joined in with stories, singing, making palms and crowns and enjoying cakes and drinks. The highlights were an early Easter Egg Hunt and Special guests the donkeys kindly brought by Rosie and Ronnie Lamb!

Our Easter services saw a significant increase in numbers with additional perspectives at our Good Friday service, “An Hour at the Cross” leading to the celebrations on Easter Day itself, with an early Communion service followed by the Family Communion service. The flowers in church on Easter Sunday were breathtakingly lovely! We were pleased to welcome the new Associate Rector of the two St. James, Ben Topham, to our service on Good Friday.

Jill mentions upcoming events; another Fulmer “musical” in Church on the evening of June 16 and of course Fulmer Weekend where we play our own part on Fulmer Day and with our Community Service on the Sunday first in Church and then in the Village Hall. We have a reception in the Village Hall afterwards so do please come and join us….

As always we extend an invitation to join us at one of our regular services, with coffee after the service on the 2nd and 4th Sunday every month; a glass of wine in the Village Hall on 5th Sundays and other special events. You are assured of a genuine welcome, lovely music, beautiful flowers and a peaceful Church for prayer.

Francesca Hall-Drinkwater, Church Warden

Stoke Common – Spring 2016

As managers of the Common fire risk is always on our minds; and we remember 1995 when 50 acres were destroyed. After a dry winter and spring, we need to monitor the common’s conditions. The restoration of the heathland areas, clearance of trees, the grazing and mowing of firebreaks should hopefully have minimised any fire risks but, if we get a long dry summer, extra vigilance will be needed. City of London Staff are working with the Buckinghamshire Fire Brigade at Gerrards Cross to produce emergency plans and to allow them access to practice their drills. Please be aware of the dangers of a discarded match, cigarette or even a bottle, which in spells of extreme hot weather can act as a magnifying glass on tinder dry materials on the ground.

With the quality of the heathland habitat continually improving, the Common is once again becoming an excellent place for ground nesting birds like skylarks. Surveys being carried out over the past few years by the Friends of Stoke Common (FOSC) have shown that reptiles and amphibians on the common have good breeding populations. For these reasons it is always very important that dog walkers keep their dogs under close control, especially during the breeding season in spring to early summer. Livestock will be grazing both sides of the Common this summer, which is an essential part of the heathland restoration process, helping to ensure that the cleared areas remain open and to encourage a diverse range of flowering heathland plants. Once again it is essential that dog walkers keep their pets under close control whilst the cattle are on the site. Dog poo is not only unpleasant to step in but it can spread pests and disease like the Neospora caninum parasite which is a serious health risk to an infected dog and can also cause abortion in pregnant cows. Please ensure you carry sufficient dog bags with you when you walk and dispose of the bag responsibly afterwards; leaving bags of dog poo anywhere on the Common or by any of the gates is littering and certainly not the action of a responsible dog owner. Remember that there are no dog bins on the main Common so all dog walkers are expected to take their dog waste home with them to dispose of responsibly.

FOSC hold monthly tasks on the common to help with its management. They are always looking for more people to get involved. If you have some spare hours and would like to participate in looking after this fantastic open space take a look at their website - www.friendsofstokecommon.org.uk – or call the and Stoke Common Rangers on 01753 647358. Chris Morris An old Colonial Buffer (Continued …) Readers may recall that I bored you all with my reminiscences of parts of our old Empire before the advent of modern industrialisation, communications and mass tourism that I was privileged to experience. I started off with Hong Kong in the December edition and now I am moving on to Singapore. I arrived in Singapore in the mid 1950’s on the SS Dilwara from Hong Kong with my Regiment. As a boy I always used to think troopships were rather uncomfortable means of getting lots of soldiers to some far-flung destination or to a battle. In fact the British India Line looked after us very well and as an officer one travelled in first class, dressed for dinner and ate very well. Unfortunately the same could not be said for the soldiers slept in hammocks below decks.

My first impression of Singapore was that it was hot and very humid and an absolutely fascinating cauldron of activity. It was then and still is a huge port and was busily exporting tin and rubber as well as being a great entreprenurial port with ships calling from all over the world. The ships anchored offshore and goods were offloaded on to barges, up the canal into the port, usually to Collyer Quay or Keppel Harbour. Today many changes have been made with all the latest equipment and facilities a modern port requires. My first impressions were very brief as we drove straight through Singapore, over the Causeway into Malaya and bypassed our barracks in Johore Bahru to go straight to our jungle camp, A war was on (it was called an Emergency, I have always been told for Insurance reasons). The Chinese Communists (CTs) had decided to fight for a Communist Malaya and a very considerable number of British and Commonwealth troops were deployed to fight them. Most of the next few years were spent in the jungle and Singapore became our escape. The Commanders-in-Chief Far East of the Army, Navy and were all based in Singapore. There was a huge Army HQ in leafy Tanglin at the top of Orchard Road. It is now full of restaurants and boutiques and the officers’ quarters fetch mouth-watering prices on the market. We had Slim,Tanglin, Blakang Mati, and Nee Soon Barracks (experienced by many a national servicemen) as well as a number of other camps. The Naval Base next to the Causeway housed our Far East Fleet with associated docks, repair facilities and housing. As regiments we were usually affiliated to a particular naval ship in port when we went to sea with them and they came on patrol or ambush with us in the jungle. The Navy always gave very good parties whether on board ship or in the wardroom at the Naval Base. The main Air Force base was at RAF Changi (now Singapore Airport) and we had a host of RAF bases at such places as RAF Seletar, RAF Sembawang, and RAF Portisdown. The main HQ for the war in Malaya was if I remember correctly at Seremban, I have been back to Singapore in each of the last two years and for me it is virtually unrecognisable. On these two occasions I was able to visit some but not all of my old haunts so as I recount the various place names I remember, if they have changed, as they often do, I would be grateful to know.

Looking back the city was absolutely fascinating. The majority of the population was Chinese, but there was a fair proportion of Indians and Malays, the latter being largely farmers and fishermen. Much of old Singapore still existed with the fish market in Sago Lane, the antiques market in Sungei Rd, the bird market where they also sold snakes usually to eat, Change Alley between Raffles Place and Collyer Quay where I once had a suit made in 12 hours. Orchard Road, which with Raffles Square was the main European shopping area with such wonderful shops as CK Tang, selling a huge range of china, including the rice pattern Chinaware which was all the rage then as well as the main cinema. The most famous street in those days was Boogie St, a must visit for all the soldiers, sailors and airmen. I cannot remember whether it was one of the out of bounds areas that kept the military police so busy. There are some astonishing and amusing stories none of which could be recounted here but briefly you never quite knew whether you were talking to a man or woman. Health and safety and modern norms have closed down virtually all these establishments and locations and you are left with a modern, sanitised city. The Chinese were incredible workers and everywhere stayed open at all hours. The Indians too were great shopkeepers and there was always a huge range of clothes and goods imported from India. You could buy almost anything at very reasonable prices although you were stupid if you did not haggle. The smells of the sea, fish, Chinese and Indian cooking, herbs and exotic scents and the sewerage smells usually emanating from the monsoon drains pervaded the air. China Town was wonderful and full of fascinating buildings housing a whole range of exciting activities.

The centre then was the main Padang, a large area of grassed land flanked on one side by the large and imposing St Andrews Church, the sea front on the other and large imposing Government buildings behind the church with Raffles Hotel with its wonderful old bar which has now been moved to the first floor. In the centre was the Singapore Cricket Club where I used to play cricket and rugby with a wonderful clubhouse and very few non-European members. The Indians had a more inferior building at the other end of the Padang. I dined at the Cricket Club last year and they have kept up all the traditions although the membership has changed dramatically. They have reclaimed so much land from the sea that the Padang is now some way from the shore When I was not in the jungle I escaped to Singapore. Majedee Barracks north of Johore Bahru was our main base (demolished last year to make way for a new housing estate much to our disgust and that of the Malaysian Army). In those days it was only a 30 minute drive over the causeway to the centre of Singapore. Our main social base was the Tanglin Club of which we were as serving officers made honorary members, and paid a small fee on our mess bills. I think there was only one Chinese member and he had been knighted by King George VI, so was allowed in with all the Brits. As a relief from Gurkha Curry a staple diet in the jungle, I always had prawn cocktail, fillet steak and ice cream with chocolate sauce preceded by several Pimms. It was bliss.

There was, for obvious reasons, a difference in numbers between the young batchelors (of which I was one) and the number of eligible young ladies unless you went native. Most of these girls worked for the Services or the Foreign Office and were housed in a complex called Braddle Rise (it did have another less respectful name). For the girls it was wonderful and for us stationed up country it was extremely irritating to phone for a date and be given a slot in their crammed diaries a week ahead, which we could never meet. The Brigade of Gurkhas had its own sort of club which was the long bar at a restaurant called Princes (which no longer exists). You were always guaranteed to meet someone from the Brigade resting from Ops in the jungle, propping up the long bar. The food was good and the wonderful Eurasian manager held a stock of jackets and ties so we could dine correctly dressed and he helped us back into our transport in the early hours. If you did not want to go European there was a fabulous selection of local restaurants to choose from, Hok Lam St was one of my favourites. A narrow Chinese street with two storey buidings on both sides and below in the street the Chinese cooking delicious food on open grills. There was a superb Russian place quite near Raffles where you could die for their borsch. The Indian labourers would go to a very basic tin table cafe where they served really superb curries for virtually nothing.

Singapore was and still is a great financial centre and all the main Far East Banks were housed in very large buildings. The manager of my bank, The Chartered, lived in a huge house with an army of servants and led a very comfortable life. Apart from the main Government buildings there were some magnificent Police Stations, the old Adelphi Hotel and the General Post Office which is now a luxury hotel. Rickshaws and Trishaws were still in great use adding to the colour of the place. The only places I visited outside the city were The Tiger Balm Gardens noted for their healing balm and a really ghastly exhibition of Chinese Tortures. Life was not always all pleasure in Singapore. The locals were prone to rioting either for political or ethnic reasons. Usually the police were left to handle them but when things got out of control the Army was called in, usually from the jungle. When I look back on the riot drills we used to practice and the days we spent getting to know every street in Singapore I am amazed. Even then the drills amused us as we had to form a square with various men given particular tasks all laid out in our Army manuals. We would hold up large signs starting off with “Disperse this is an illegal gathering“ to the extreme one saying “Disperse or we open fire“. We had no special protection and if we did open fire we had to try and hit the ringleaders. It was not much fun facing a howling mob who were bent on murder even though they were probably as scared as we were. Fortunately my Regiment had a fearsome reputation and when we appeared they tended to have second thoughts.

Getting to and from Singapore in those days was always a lengthy business. When troopships were phased out we started air trooping usually by RAF transport but also on chartered flights. The route home was usually via RAF Gan in the Indian Ocean, Aden at RAF Kormakser and Al Adem in Libya then ruled by King Idris. It used to take about 30 hours but on one trooping chartered flight it took me 4 days to get home as opposed to the 10hrs flights of today. Blakang Mati a small island off the coast of Singapore was a large military base mainly for the guns, which were manned to protect the approaches to Singapore. I was briefly stationed there. Access was by means of a chain ferry, we had our own private beach and our quarters were dotted around in beautiful wooded areas. It is now a vast amusement park accessed by a funicular from the mainland and linked to an adjoining island.

The time came for independence for the island. I remember how disgusted we were when Lee Kuan Yew arrived at Government House to take over from the Governor dressed in an open necked tieless white shirt, when in those days you never went near the place unless you were smartly dressed in a suit and tie with a hat. We thought the place would go to the dogs with the left leaning Mr Yew. In fact he became one of my heroes and his remarkable, pragmatic transformation of Singapore, his rejection of the Malaysian Federation and the resulting highly successful and dynamic modern Singapore is truly amazing. However if you asked me what I preferred, the old Singapore or the modern, too perfect, very expensive and rather sterile Singapore I would always opt for the old model. JOHN SANDERS This is such a pleasure to read and thank you John for the wonderful reminiscences of a bygone time – Editors FULMER VILLAGE HALL

It’s been a busy year at the Village Hall with regular classes, parties and wedding receptions taking up most of our time and being ably managed by our Lettings Secretary; Karen Nelmes. Alongside this successful timetable of activities, we have been working hard on upgrading and maintaining the facilities at the hall so that we can compete with (and overtake!) other local halls.

I’m sure you can appreciate that maintaining the hall and keeping it to such a high standard is a very big, never ending, task with a constant stream of jobs that need doing. I’m sure I speak on behalf of all villagers when I say that our thanks go to everyone on the Village Hall Committee for their hard work and commitment to keeping the hall running so smoothly and looking so good. As a result, the Gent’s loo has now been upgraded to match the other facilities and they all look very smart indeed.

You may know that there was an unfortunate incident last November when an inebriated driver sped through the village, through the open gates of the village hall and crashed into a parked car pushing it through the wall of the hall. Thankfully, no one was using the hall at the time, or the outcome could have been so much worse. The village hall team worked swiftly to have the building made safe, to instruct our insurance company and to inform our hall bookers of the accident. As a result of the crash, the whole building had to be re-decorated, radiator covers were replaced and the floor was sanded and polished. These were, in fact, jobs that we had on our list for 2017 but the insurance company were very helpful and more than willing to cover the costs, so every cloud….

Finally, don’t forget, if you have any special events coming up and you are looking for a lovely venue at a competitive price, we are always happy to welcome you. Please contact: Karen Nelmes on our new number; 07498 041253, for further details.

We look forward to seeing you at the Village Hall very soon!

Barbara Zoltowska Village Hall Chairperson and Secretary

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Fulmer Churchyard

Sue Fagan is desperately looking for help with the Churchyard garden as she is unable to manage on her own any longer. It is just a matter of keeping the beds tidy and a couple of times a year helping with some pruning and planting for the following season. As the churchyard is quite a centrepiece of the village it is important that we do our best during June/July when judging takes place for the Best Kept Village Competition. If anyone can offer some assistant please contact me. Sue Fagan - 01753 662193

Stoke Poges MEMORIAL GARDENS

Grade I listed gardens of unique design and beauty

Plots and gardens available for the interment of cremated remains

The gardens are non-denominational and plots are available in various settings to all faiths

A personal visit is highly recommended

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Stoke Poges, Wexham & Fulmer Horticultural Society – Ruth Rooley

The pleasure of Gardening and growing your own plants. Experienced or novice there is something very satisfying about growing and nurturing plants in a garden or an allotment, in a window box or in a pot on a patio. Whatever you are growing this year please take a look at what you have in the week before the Annual Show and consider entering one of the classes.

New website - The Society has a much improved website www.hortsoc.org Please log on and let us have your comments and feedback.

Annual Plant Sale - Thank you to all those who supported and helped at the Plant Sale, on 22 April, donating plants and homemade cakes, and coming to buy. The money raised goes towards the cost of the huge marquee for the Annual Show.

A Big “Thank You” to the Co-op -The Co-op presented the Horticultural Society with a cheque for £2,064, raised from its Community Fund.

The funding for our cause came from Co-op Members. The Co-op gives 1% of everything members spend on Co-op branded products and services to a local cause they choose.

The Horticultural Society is putting the money towards the cost of the Annual Show. We are very fortunate to have been selected for continued support over the next six months. So please everyone in Fulmer, if you shop in the Co- op in Stoke Poges, nominate the Society as your chosen charity, if you have not already done so.

Annual Show, Saturday 29 July, in the grounds of The Stoke Poges School, Rogers Lane The gates open at 12.30 pm; the Marquee opens about 1.30 pm after the judging of the exhibits. There is free parking in the adjacent Recreation Ground, off Bells Hill. Entry is £3.00 for adults, £2.00 concessions, free entry for children and members (on production of their membership card).

There are competitions for best plants and flowers, fruit and vegetables, flower arranging, wine and beer, photographs, cookery, arts and crafts for both adults and children. We encourage you, your children and friends to enter the many and varied competition classes. There are a wide variety of junior classes, such as a miniature garden, a scarecrow, flowers, baking biscuits or fairy cakes, a decorated plate.

The Show Schedule with full details and entry forms will be available in May on line www.hortsoc.org or from Pat Rofe on 01753 662695. Other attractions include a Brass Band, Plant Sales and Garden Equipment, Classic Car Display,c a Coconut Shy, Raffle and Tombola, Stalls, Tea Tent, Beer Tent, Lunches and Barbeque, and for children a Bouncy Castle, Face Painting and Ice Cream. This is a unique and popular event for all the family. People from a wide area attend each year. Help is needed to prepare and put the Show on; we would welcome volunteers who would be willing to give some of their time assisting the hardworking show team. If you would like to help, please get in touch with Gaby Battrick on 01753 663522 or Jon Homan on 01753 662166

Membership is £7 for an individual or £10 for two people living at the same address is a bargin; particularly as members have free entry to the Show, Lecture Evenings and other events. You can apply for membership by contacting a member of the Committee or via our website www.hortsoc.org

King George's Field Fulmer (KGFF)

The football season has just finished at Gerrards Cross & Fulmer Football Club with a presentation of awards. This year’s was extra special as it included for the first time the girls’ under 12 football team. The club is hoping to form an under 10s team in addition to the under 12s in September. We look forward to more players joining in both the boys and girls section.

Fulmer Cricket Club have just started their season and have got off to a flying start winning the first 2 matches. Everyone in the village is welcome to come and watch the cricketers play, enjoy the idyllic surroundings while having a drink from the bar. To see when matches are played please visit www.fulmercricketclub.com.

Gerrards Cross & Fulmer Netball Club have just started their season. The girls train on a Saturday morning receiving a high level of coaching from Sonia and her team. Apart from a season full of matches the club also welcomes a team of New Zealand coaches in August for a 1-week summer camp.

Fulmer Tennis Club has just been established on the 2 all weather courts. To complement this, the club have joined forces with the LTA who are sponsoring a 6-week free course for 5-7 year olds. This starts in June and, not surprisingly, has sold out. Courses will continue at the end of this one. If you or any of your family would like coaching then please contact me.

Unfortunately, the Family Fun Day this month and the Bonfire Night last November which have always been hugely successful and enjoyable did not take place because of a lack of volunteers. If you would like to see these events take place then please come forward. We have about 20 volunteers who are very kindly giving their time for the Bonfire Night this November which we are very grateful for but for the event to go ahead we need 40 volunteers on the day. We also need 5/6 volunteers to help form a committee which will include myself to organise the event.

KGFF is an excellent venue for hosting social, sporting and commercial events. We have accommodated parties for adults who use the pavilion with its licensed bar, kitchen, space for eating and dancing. Children's parties are popular using the grounds to put up a bouncy castle or two. Marquees can be erected for larger functions such as weddings, christenings etc. General use of the field and pavilion hall is available for hire during the week. The all weather pitch/courts can also be hired for 5 a side football and tennis.

For further information on the activities of the clubs, facilities and booking, contact us on 07879 404745 or 01753 662705 or via email [email protected].

Andrew Nealon

RNLI IN FULMER

Our very successful Quiz Night returned again this March to the Village Hall and 90 people participated and enjoyed a challenging quiz (thank you to our Quiz Master – Tom Chitty), delicious fish and chips from Andrews in GX and sumptuous desserts with wine as well. We raised £2,000 and were delighted with all the positive messages we received and we will be back in 2018!

In April Sue and John Fagan kindly hosted, yet again, a very successful Clay Pigeon Shoot, which also raised just over £2,000 and in beautiful weather much enjoyment was had and al fresco lunch afterwards.

Sue Fagan - Hon Secretary 01753 662193

A wealth of property H[SHUWLVHDW\RXUıQJHUWLSV

SOLD

Hamptons Gerrards Cross

36 Packhorse Road, Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire, SL9 8ED Sales. 01753 720 064 [email protected] 34 Packhorse Road, Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire, SL9 7DG Lettings. 01753 720 066 [email protected] hamptons.co.uk Please dial in full. For terms & conditions, please ask in branch.