APRIL 2020

THE NEW SOCIAL PROTOCOL – SANITISE AND SELF-ISOLATE To coin a phrase, “the situation is fluid”. Indeed, as fast as this article Singing: Stewkley Singers’ May concert has been cancelled, as have was drafted, updates about the Coronavirus / COVID‐19 came thick the weekly term‐time rehearsals. Music Director Jenny Morgan said and fast, and the pencils had to be re‐sharpened. While we have that this was the last thing she wanted to do but that it was “an not heard of any infections in Stewkley or Littlecote, and only know extreme situation.” Similarly, Songbirds at the Village Hall on a of a small number of families who are self‐isolating as a precaution, Monday morning has been suspended indefinitely. other local impacts of the virus are substantial. Pubs: The Carpenters Arms and The Swan are planning to provide Democracy at work, or not: Local elections on 7 May for the new take‐away meals. Buckinghamshire Unitary Authority and Stewkley Parish Council For the latest news and advice: Additional information from have been suspended for a year, although Stewkley’s monthly village organisations can be found elsewhere in this month’s issue. meetings and the Annual Parish Meeting on 18 May are still While the Grapevine has endeavoured to be as up to date as planned. possible, readers are advised to check with event organisers before School: The day after the announcement that UK schools would finalising their plans. The most up to date information and indeed close except for vulnerable pupils or children of key guidance on the virus is available from Public Health England at workers, St Michael’s Headteacher David Morley emailed parents, www.gov.uk/government/topical‐events/coronavirus‐covid‐19‐ “… we have been placed in situations where we have had to make uk‐government‐response. Information more specific to decisions based on only limited guidance. Our parents have been Buckinghamshire is available at enormously understanding of our predicament and it has been so www.buckscc.gov.uk/services/community/emergency‐ heart‐warming that many parents have wanted to check in to make planning/coronavirus‐information‐and‐advice/ sure we are all ok. For people without access to the internet, the Grapevine can print “Our staff are working incredibly hard to support the children off and deliver advice from the above official sources – please through this difficult time. Whilst the classrooms were full of happy phone 240950. and smiling children… we know they are feeling very anxious. …we are phoning parents whose children have a ‘Free School Meal’, as a COVID‐19 ‐ Call for volunteers result of a benefit entitlement, with the offer of food parcels …we from Stewkley Parish Council aim to support families in the best way we can… ‘Never has The Parish Council would like to hear from any individual, or village #together been so important.’” group, who would be prepared to help fellow‐parishioners as the Messy Church in March at the school, was cancelled. Ironically, the COVID‐19 epidemic continues to restrict our freedom and topic was Hope – what happens when things get tough. activities. Churches: The Church of England has advised that “churches Assistance may be needed by individuals or families who are should be open where possible but with no public worship expected to self‐isolate within their own homes for a period of time services.” The Rural Dean of Mursley has additionally announced that may range from 2 weeks to months. Simple tasks like that baptisms, weddings and funerals in the deanery are shopping, picking up prescriptions, or posting letters and parcels suspended. Stewkley’s churchwardens have undertaken to may become impossible for some people to do for themselves. consider any situations that might arise and try to help. Anyone who is able and willing to offer time and effort to help is There will likewise be no worship services at the Methodist Chapel, asked to get in touch with the parish clerk on including baptisms. The Methodist Council is encouraging worship [email protected] or by phone on 07771 635 696 in different ways, including online and worship‐at‐home sheets. and provide contact details so that the Council can compile a Funerals can take place with restrictions; the advice for weddings Master List of helpers ready for action if and when needed. is unclear. The Council illustrated the current situation with a Volunteers will only be asked to help with activities that do not quote from the Bible, 1 Corinthians 8:11: “Think of your weaker require them to enter anyone’s house, or come into direct contact (brother/sister)”. with a person who is self‐isolating, or who has the virus. Village Hall and Rec: The Players took the difficult decision to If you are already self‐isolating and in need of help, please call or postpone their March production (Dinnerladies), and the Cricket email the clerk. Club has pulled its long‐planned April Sunday Lunch; they explained, “…it’s obviously not essential ... and given we’d be Also in Grapevine: looking at about 100 in the hall, [we] think it makes sense to ● p5 BKV on hold cancel.” ● p7 Shutters down for dinnerladies Meanwhile the Recreation Ground Committee went into hygiene‐ ● p10 Bunt Scott’s Thoughts On... overdrive hoping to keep the Pavilion open, but eventually ● p11 A cottage garden of memories succumbed to Government advice. From the moment of leaving the digital printing machine, your Grapevine is handled only by the printer operator and the Grapevine deliverers, all wearing protective disposable gloves provided by the printers and the Grapevine Team.

THE GRAPEVINE: NEXT ISSUE ON OR ABOUT 1 MAY 2020. DEADLINE FOR CONTRIBUTIONS & ADS: 15 APRIL 2020 Contact: [email protected] To advertise: email or call 242137. For editorial: email or call 240350. Page 2 Stewkley Grapevine April 2020 STEWKLEY WALKERS’ PROGRAMME from Alice Horne WHAT’S ON IN MAY Walks Programme for April Visit the website or contact individual leaders for more information. ELECTIONS TO STEWKLEY PARISH COUNCIL Optional lunch available unless otherwise stated. and Buckinghamshire CountyEL (newLE UnitaryD Authority) CAThursdayNC 7 May Friday 3 April Woburn Circular Meet at The Swan at 9.45am to care‐shareLK Sto The Bell, 21 Bedford Street, Woburn (MK17A 9QB)LL to W meetA Bridget at 10.15am to pre‐order CELEBRATE VE DAY optional lunch. 4 miles. Some stiles, footbridgesLE andD uphill walking. At the Rec Well‐behaved dogs on leadsN Cwelcome.EL Friday 8 May, 2.30 ‐5.00pm CA E Join us for a StreetLLE DParty Leader: Bridget (07756 326350) R NOTIC CANCE FURTHE Bouncy Castle, Competitions UNTIL BBq and live band from 5.30pm Wednesday 22 April Hartwell and Stone Meet at The Swan at 9.45am or at the Bugle Horn, Oxford Road, STEWKLEY SINGERS’ SPRING CONCERT Hartwell (HP17 8QP) by 10.15am to pre‐order optional lunch. About Saturday 9 May, 7.30pm 4 miles. Regret no dogs. All Saints Church, Leighton Buzzard Leader: Paul (07795 523588) Commemorating NtheC 75thEL AnniversaryLED of VE Day Web: www.stewkleywalkers.org.uk Haydn’s NelsonCA Mass, Handel’s Zadok the Priest plus a ‘Last Night of the Proms’ SAVE THE DATE ANNUAL PARISH MEETING Monday 18 May, 7pm Village Hall 1st Stewkley Scout Group Updates from village organisations, including The 20’s Plenty campaign and New Dleisure projects BARBECUE CELLE funded byC theA SoulburyN Road development Friday 3 July Light refreshments. Everyone welcome Recreation Ground May be cancelled. Check with Parish Clerk 0771 635 696

Comedy Night

returns to Stewkley Pavilion

To Hire Facilities at Friday 1st May the Pavilion call 240347 Doors open 6.45pm

Mark Cram ELLED Cis backAN byC popular demand for the 4th year!

One ticket‐ four acts. To Hire the Village Hall Tickets call 07582 580229 £11 members

£12.50 non‐members To Hire the Chapel Schoolroom tel :240330 over 18’s only call 217795 Stewkley Grapevine April 2020 Page 3

WHAT’S ON IN APRIL VILLAGE DIARY All information accurate at time of going to press but, as things are moving rapidly, please do check that events APRIL have not been cancelled before finalising your plans. Wed 1 Refuse: blue tops and food bins Pub Lunch Club CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE PUB LUNCH CLUB Fri 3 Family Bingo, Rec, CANCELLED Good value, two‐course meal at Wed 8 Refuse: green tops, food bins. (No garden waste) Fri 10 Mutual Fellowship, Chapel, CANCELLED CTheAN CarpentersCELL ArmsED ther notice Sun 12 EASTER SUNDAY Wednesdayuntil fur 1 April, 12.30pm Mon 13 Cygnets’ Easter Egg Hunt, CANCELLED To help the more senior villagers get out and socialise Thur 16 Refuse: blue tops and food bins Contact Brian on 240521 if interested Sat 18 Chapel lunches, Methodist Hall, CANCELLED Sun 19 SVCC Sunday Lunch, CANCELLED COFFEE STOPED Mon 20 St Michael’s School reopens - UNCERTAIN CANCELL Wed 22 Refuse: green tops, food bins, (No garden waste) Thursdayrthe 2r April no tice 10.30amunt i–l 12noon, fu Stewkley Pavilion Stewkley Local History Group, CANCELLED Fri 24 Mutual Fellowship, Chapel CANCELLED Rec Pavillion Wed 29 Refuse: blue tops and food bins MAY FAMILY PRIZE BINGO Fri 1 Comedy Night, Rec, CANCELLED Fun and prizes for all the family Thu 7 Local Elections CANCELLED Friday 3 AprilL ED NCEL Fri 8 VE Day Street Party, Rec, CANCELLED Doors CopenA 6.30pm Eyes down 7.00pm Sat 9 Stewkley Singers, Leighton Buzzard, CANCELLED Pizza served [£1] and bar open. Free entry: pay for pizza and booklets (£2.50) Mon 18 Annual Parish Meeting, Village Hall, 7pm - CHECK WEEKLY REGULARS Mon Songbirds CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE BOOK CLUB Explorer Scouts CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE Monday 6 April Tue Brownies CANCELLED UNTIL AT LEAST LATE APRIL 8.30pm via WhatsApp Wed Daisy Club CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE Please contact Greg on 240487 for information Knit and Knatter, Blackthorn Nursery, Book to discuss: Becoming by Michelle Obama CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE (Book for May: Roots by Alex Hayley) Running Club, Rec, 7.30pm CHECK Badminton, Village Hall, Stewkley Cygnets CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE EASTER EGG HUNT Bell Ringers CANCELLED At Stewkley RecLE D SVCC winter training MondayCA 13N AprilCE (EasterL Monday) CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE 10am‐ 12 midday Thu Beaver Scouts CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE Plus craft activities, tea, coffee, cake & more Short Mat Bowls, CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE Please come and support our local Preschool Stewkley Singers rehearsals CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE Stewkley Vicarage Cricket Club Fri Cub Scouts and Scouts EASTERE LUNCHLLED CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE SundayCA 19N April,C 1pm, Village Hall Sat Tennis Club, Rec, 9.30am Tickets £12.50 adults, £6 children Bar Open, Rec Pavilion CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE MONTHLY REGULARS Stewkley Local History Group Mon Parish Council, 1st Mon. CHECK FOR FURTHER DETAILS

OPEN MEETING Book Club, 1st Mon of month, via WhatsApp Wednesday 22 April Wed Pub Lunch Club CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE A talk by KevinELL VartyED CANC WI, 2nd Wed CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE Black Feathers to Black Underwear – Thu Coffee Stop CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE Churchyards, Cemeteries and the Victorians Sat Knit & Knatter 1st Sat of month, Blackthorn Nursery All welcome to this meeting. At the Pavilion 7:45 for 8pm CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE Admission £3 includes refreshment Page 4 Stewkley Grapevine April 2020 FROM THE EDITOR’S QUILL GRAPEVINE CONTINGENCY PLANNING With advice from the Government becoming progressively This may possibly have been one of the most difficult restrictive, we have had to ask ourselves the question ‘what Grapevines to compile. happens if it is not possible to print and/or deliver the Grapevine’. Every day we are receiving updates on coronavirus and what we should and should not be doing, and every change has The answer is it will be published online significant impact not only nationally but for the residents and by the last day of each month at: businesses in Stewkley. www.stewkleygrapevine.co.uk. On Friday 20 March we were advised pubs and restaurants are to close their doors for an indefinite period. News which must have sent a shiver down the spine of the landlords at the GRAPEVINE ‐ DELIVERERS WANTED Carpenters Arms and The Swan. Would you like to be part of the Grapevine delivery team? Anyone over 70 is advised to self-isolate. That’s a lot of people We are currently looking for volunteers to help us with a few of in Stewkley suddenly expected to stay at home. the delivery routes in Stewkley village. Gatherings in large groups are no longer recommended while At the end of each month your copies will be delivered to your schools waited for guidance on how to cope with the rapidly home packed in a handy hi‐viz shoulder carry bag. At present we changing situation, and then told to close their doors. also supply disposable protective gloves. As you will see on pages 2 & 3, we have each day been advised If you can help us please contact us either email to: of forthcoming events in Stewkley being postponed or [email protected] or by calling the Treasurer, cancelled, something which has even reached as far as all Mike Boden on 242137. services at St Michael’s Church and The Methodist Chapel, with no idea when things may return to anywhere near normal, just SWANBOURNE POST OFFICE REDUCES HOURS an unpleasant certainty that they are going to get worse before they get better. Many people in Stewkley rely on the services provided at Swanbourne Post Office. They have advised that they have been put Several times a day we are being informed of another change on reduced hours by the Post Office. From 23 March their hours which affects what is in this month’s Grapevine and more are 10.00 ‐15.00 hours on Mondays and Tuesdays and 09.00 – importantly, the people who will read it. 17.30 on Wednesdays and Fridays. This is correct at the time of But anyone who has lived in Stewkley for more than a couple writing but if you intend to travel to Swanbourne especially, check of days will know what a fantastic village it is, underpinned by that the hours have not been changed. Tel 01296 720288. a superb community spirit and a pro-active Parish Council ... and that will no doubt play a major part in getting us through BORROW A BOOK whatever is coming our way. For our part, the Grapevine team did not have our usual If you would like to pass the time with some reading there are monthly meeting to discuss what we can fit in and what we books available to borrrow free of charge in St Michael’s church. A don’t have room for. We have kept our social distance as donation can be made. requested, but have, nonetheless come up with a whole list of things we would like to feature over the coming months, for TENNIS CLUB which we need your input. Members are welcome to continue playing tennis socially, although Please have a read through the article below and send us your the Aylesbury tennis league, in which Stewkley Tennis Club has two contributions, or even your suggestions for other items you teams in have suspended their competitions with immediate effect. think will be of interest to others. As we go into a nationwide A decision will be made by the league in due course as to what lock-down, we need something to keep us busy as well. happens with the rest of the season. GRAPEVINE CONTINUES THROUGH DISRUPTION Many of the village events which form the backbone of the monthly Or can you set crosswo rds, wo rd searches or sudoku puzzles? reports in Grapevine have had to be postponed or cancelled. (Please don’t use anything that has copyright). To fill the pages over the coming months we would like your input We also aim to bring you some simple exercises to help keep you for any of the following: fit if you are in self‐isolation. How are you and your family keeping yourselves occupied? There are a few new articles in this month’s Grapevine already. What games do you know to play with kids of different ages? We are also holding a Themed Photograph Competition: Simple recipes – what can we be cooking whilst on reduced This months theme is: This is what I like about living in Stewkley. incomes/food stocks? Please email your entries to the address at the foot of this page by Gardening tips – jobs the keen gardeners can be getting on with. 15 April. General life hacks ‐ what little tips and tricks do you have to save The entry the Grapevine team likes the best will be published. time and/or money or to accomplish common tasks more easily? Photos should be sent in hi‐resolution so that they are good enough Your happy memories of your time in Stewkley. for us to print. Where possible send the original image unaltered. Your favourite photos of your life in Stewkley. If your file is too large to email please let us know and we will advise how to get it to us. Do you have a skill you can share with others to get jobs done around the home? If your photo contains people please ensure you have their consent for it to be published. Good books. Can you recommend a particularly good book, perhaps supply a synopsis of up to 100 words. Dog training Tips. Have you got a little trick or two that you have To contact the Grapevine email: found really helps with your dog training. Are you a good quiz setter? Can you come up with a quiz that will [email protected] test and entertain? Can you make it Stewkley themed? Stewkley Grapevine April 2020 Page 5 BEST KEPT VILLAGE COMPETITION ON HOLD CONTINUING UNDAUNTED from Fiona Weekes Plans for giving Stewkley its With the unprecedented effects of the annual Bucks Best Kept coronavirus pandemic, the London Village make over are going Marathon has been postponed until Sunday ahead, despite the 4 October. I am fully committed to competition itself being fundraising for the Scouts, and would like called off because of the to thank everyone who has donated so far present health emergency. (currently £581.00) but I am undaunted by It is the first time in its 63‐ the postponement and will continue to year history that the train and prepare for the new date. Please competition has been do donate if you are able cancelled. www/justgiving.com/crowdfunding/fiona‐weekes‐1 With the village winning the De Fraine Cup (pictured) in its category last year, the Parish Council had agreed to enter for the SCHOOL DANCE GROUP REACHES FINALS Tindall Cup where the opposition would be all of last year’s St Michael’s School Year 6 dance group took part in the KS2 Dance category winners, but the competition was cancelled before the Festival in early March at Buckingham School. They successfully application could be lodged. qualified for the finals on 21 April. Teacher Mrs Croucher tweeted, For Stewkley, John Flewin had volunteered to once again be the “So proud of those who competed in the Bucks Sports Partnership village BKV organiser and was just getting planning underway. Dance Competition and now on to the finals!.” He told the Grapevine: “We still want our village to look its best this The dancers’ success was made possible by the parents who summer, especially as things may seem very bleak with the virus transported the girls to the event, for which the school is always epidemic taking its toll on our way of life. grateful. “One of the good things about continuing our efforts as usual is that the kind of activities that give the village its summer look are those that can be carried out in the open air with reasonable social distancing if needed. “Members of clubs that cannot continue with their usual meetings and events will still be able to get involved in undertakings such litter picks.” In previous years members of the Stewkley Players, the Women’s Institute, the Walkers, and the History Group have all organised litter‐picks. The Grapevine is maintaining its funding for the hanging baskets prepared by Elaine Goss that annually bedeck the bus shelters, and elsewhere flower tubs will appear as usual. Last month the mowing team, organised by the Enterprise agency, started work carrying out the first of the 13 cuts planned for the year, and there will be a gutter weed‐kill. One piece of good news is that the village will keep its BKV title, its sign and its cup for another year. John Flewin added: “Of course, for those having to stay at home there is the opportunity to keep the frontages of their homes tidy by getting rid of weeds and the such‐like and, where necessary, brushing away scattered gravel.” ENGLAND EXPECTED … from Stewkley Singers As we approached the start of spring, after what has seemed a long and miserable winter, it was time to look forward to the Stewkley Singers’ celebratory spring concert which was to be held on Saturday 9 May at All Saints’ Church, Leighton Buzzard. The choir had been rehearsing keenly since January for a performance of Joseph Haydn’s irrepressibly cheerful masterpiece, the Nelson Mass as part of a concert designed to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day. Stewkley’s 60‐strong choral society planned to be joined by the Wigmore Chamber Orchestra, with Sarah Helsby Hughes (Soprano), Serenna Wagner (Mezzo Soprano), Joseph Buckmaster (Tenor) and Edward Price (Baritone.) The finale of the concert was to be in ‘Last Night of the Proms’ style, complete with all the usual favourites: Rule Britannia, Land of Hope and Glory and Jerusalem—and audience participation was expected! Because of the health emergency and in line with most other events, the Singers have sadly cancelled their concert. It was impossible to plan as to when it might be postponed and by moving it into the late summer/autumn, plans for next season would be disturbed. Page 6 Stewkley Grapevine April 2020 PC MATTERS The March meeting of Stewkley Parish Council took place at the The PC agreed to enter the Best Kept Village Tindall Cup – the Village Hall on Monday 2 March. The following is as noted by an competition for previous year’s category winners. attendee of the meeting. Finance: In the March Grapevine, an amount of £240.39 was Dove Street: During the open forum, a group of residents from incorrectly attributed to 'Expenses for the Spinney' when it should Dove Street spoke about their concerns regarding their have been attributed to signposts and associated installation neighbourhood. As a result, the Parish Clerk will write to the Vale hardware for the Speed Indicator Device. The following payments of Aylesbury Housing Trust to request improvements to the access were authorised at the meeting: E.ON £322.21; Staff costs including roads on both sides of Dove Street and will also write to Aylesbury expenses £700.93; Website H Audouard £99; Harlequin Press re Vale District Council to request improvements to the condition of 20s Plenty A4 signs £192; RCOH professional fees (NO Homer) the service roads running behind the even‐numbered properties £660; Hippo bag repay Cllr Bottomley 117.73; Repay Cllr Higgins in Dove Street. Additionally, the village maintenance man is to be 20s Plenty sign fixings £48.81; Harlequin Press 20s Plenty large contacted about clearing moss and hedging from a path at the top signs £205 and banner for Open Meeting £55; Rec Ground of Dove Street. Residents also reported a large amount of soil Association re Pavilion hire 22.50; Betony seeds for Wildlife dumped in a ditch along Soulbury Road; the PC agreed to explore Reserve £30. For the Rec Ground Association: Krystal Hygiene options for its removal. £36.62; MK Liquid Waste £207.60; Bunce Plumbing (fix leak) £132; Planning: Councillors agreed to support two planning applications pplprs £156.85. ‐ one at North Farm, Littlecote (agricultural barn and workshop) Recreation Ground: The performing rights licenses for the Rec and one at 83 High Street North (single storey rear extension and had been finalised, and the new toilet order has been confirmed. It side canopy). was decided to examine the costs of adding additional insurance It was estimated that around 120 people attended Dandara's (the cover for Sports Club equipment and to further investigate Soulbury Road developer) consultation event at the Rec in unforeseen liabilities. February, and 55 comments had been received. Highways and Streetlights: A resident reported that he had Regarding the Neighbourhood Plan, progress was being made on incurred damage to his car while driving on High Street the final drafts of documents, with the target of getting these North/Mursley Rd and that the state of this road was now submitted to Aylesbury Vale District Council before it is abolished dangerous as the potholes are impossible to avoid safely. The at the end of March and replaced by the new Unitary Authority. A Council will press Bucks CC for road repairs. It was noted that a significant hurdle had been overcome, as arrangements have survey had recently been completed on all streetlights in the village recently been finalised with sites at the southern gateway to the and all flashing lights had been replaced. village (Wing Road area). Miscellaneous: The PC extended its thanks to Terry Brown for Environment: Littlecote residents have written to the continuing to store the Hippo waste collection bag for use by the Environment Agency to complain about fumes from the Faccenda village maintenance man. Farm. The council agreed to write directly to Faccenda regarding Date of next meeting at the Village Hall: Monday 6 April at residents’ complaints. 7.30pm. This has now been cancelled. DEMOCRACY ON HOLD APRIL FOOL’S DAY SEES NEW COUNCIL LAUNCH – COULD WORK WELL FOR STEWKLEY From 1 April the new Buckinghamshire Council Unitary Authority The UK Government has postponed the local elections, which were will replace the long‐standing five councils across the county due to take place on 7 May, until 2021 because of the coronavirus (Buckinghamshire County Council, Aylesbury Vale District Council, COVID 19. Chiltern District Council, Wycombe District Council and South For Stewkley, this means that all nine Parish Councillors will Bucks District Council). The new council will deliver all services continue in post for another year, unless there are any resignations. that had been split between the County and Districts, i.e. roads and In addition, Buckinghamshire County Councillor Janet Blake will pavements, recycling and waste, schools and school transport, continue for the time being to represent Stewkley on the new planning and planning applications, care and support for children Buckinghamshire Unitary Authority, which replaces Bucks CC and and adults, housing and council tax benefits, libraries, parks, the four district councils including Aylesbury Vale, from 1 April. country parks and green spaces. The Prime Minister had initially resisted delaying the elections, as Election of Councillors to the new authority that were to have taken part of the Government's strategy of avoiding excessive disruption place on 8 May have been postponed for a year because of the because of the virus, but concerns were raised that local authorities coronavirus, COVOID‐19. Cllr Janet Blake will continue to represent might struggle to find the resources to hold the elections, the Stewkley until the elections next year, which will see three possible increased risk of spreading infection, and the likelihood councillors elected instead of one. that turnout would be unusually low because of the fear of infection Sixteen new Community Boards across the county will bring and / or self‐isolation. together councillors and local communities / residents to help The Parish Council has told the Grapevine that this delay will give solve local issues, take local decisions and influence the way the residents more time to explore whether they would like to stand council plans and delivers local services. for the Council, by attending more meetings, following issues and There will be a ‘cost of living’ council tax rise of 1.99%, plus an projects in depth for a longer period of time, and having more additional 2% ‘social care’ increase, to be used exclusively to cover opportunity for discussions with the sitting councillors. the growing demand for adult social care and looking after the The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 6 April at 7:30pm in the elderly. In addition, small adjustments across the four district areas Village Hall Billiard Room. Agendas and minutes can be found at will ‘harmonise’ council tax and make sure everyone is paying the https://stewkley.org.uk/ or on the parish notice boards throughout same amount for the same services no matter where they live. the village, or by contacting the Parish Clerk at More information is available at buckinghamshire.gov.uk/ or [email protected] or 07771 635696. 01296 395000. From 1 April, there will be a satellite office at the This meeting has since been cancelled. Winslow Community Library, for those unable to access the internet, at Park Road, Winslow, MK18 3DN, telephone 01296 email: [email protected] 395000. Stewkley Grapevine April 2020 Page 7 STEWKLEY WI DINNERLADIES – SHUTTERS STAYING DOWN FOR NOW from Sheila Fellowes from Stewkley Players Ken and June Brazier gave us an insight into the Stewkley Players took the difficult decision to postpone their spring production of wo rk done by Mercy Ships. From one ship dinnerladies that was due to be staged on 18‐21 March. Concerns over coronavirus purchased by Don Stephens in 1978 it now has were uppermost in our minds when we reached this decision. With four almost sold a whole fleet operating in many of the poorest out performances, we faced the reality of having about 150 people each night countries in the wo rld making a difference to inevitably coming into close contact with each other, and creating a perfect many people’s lives. environment to unwittingly pass on the virus. It was decided the responsible thing The next meeting was planned for 8 April, when to do was to postpone until a later date in the year, when the threat from the virus has Wendy Warren was to be talking to us about diminished. Jewellery. Silve r, Pearls, Hallmarking and Plans for the rescheduling of the play will be published in the Grapevine, on the knowing what to look for as well as caring fo r Players and Stewkley village FaceBook pages, and through our usual publicity outlets. and cleaning jewellery. We look forward to serving you all our two‐course menu of dinnerladies hopefully in Sadly the meeting has now been cancelled. early Summer. For more information contact Sheila Fellowe s In the meantime, we will refund all ticket money. If you have not yet returned your 240596. ticket for your refund, please do contact the box office on 07845 489167 and arrange for your money to be returned. 20’S PLENTY - HOW’S IT GOING? We would greatly appreciate it if anyone who still has their ticket would claim their refund at the earliest possible opportunity so we can draw a line under this phase, As the trial 20mph voluntary speed limit and look forward to our next opportunity to entertain you all when we bring throughout the village enters its third month, the dinnerladies to the village hall stage. Parish Council’s Traffic Subcommittee was Stewkley Players would like to thank its incredibly supportive audience for their planning to create more eye‐catching publicity understanding and for the kind messages that have been received since this decision with the help of the School. Given the current was taken. situation, these plans are now uncertain. Children stand to gain the most from slowe r ANNUAL PARISH MEETING – DEMOCRACY AT WORK traffic speeds, because of improved safety leading to greater confidence to walk and cycle The Annual Parish Meeting (APM) is due to be held on Monday 18 May 2020, starting locally, and less noise and air pollution at 7pm, in the village hall. Refreshments, including coffee, tea, wine and nibbles will contributing to improved mental and physical be served during the meeting, and everyone is welcome to attend. health. What is the APM? It is a meeting required by law to be held between March and June Whether the Subcommittee recommends to the where the parishioners and their elected representatives meet to discuss matters of Parish Council it pursues with Bucks County a importance to the parish. Unlike the parish council meetings, the agenda for the APM 20mph limit for the whole of the village, for part is driven by you. of the village, e.g. Sycamore Close to Dove Street, This year, the business of the APM will mainly centre around two topics: The new 20’s or reverts to the 30mph limit, depends on public Plenty campaign and the possible uses of the S106 leisure money that the parish will opinion: please phone 240950 or email receive as a result of the Soulbury Road development. [email protected] to record your 20’s Plenty: The sub‐committee who have fronted the campaign will be there to talk views. about its aims and objectives, and to get your feedback and views on their current and planned activities. AVDC CUT GARDEN WASTE S106 leisure: Money will be available to us to spend on the Stewkley Recreation COLLECTIONS Ground once development starts on the Soulbury Road. This money is ringfenced for On 18 March AVDC notified residents that in 10 years, so the parish council is interested in exploring both possible options and order to concentrate on collections of refuse, support for various projects. The precise wording in the application states: clinical waste and food waste, they will be “Improvements to Stewkley Recreation Ground including equipped play facilities, stopping the collection of garden waste and fitness equipment, access/car‐parking/toilets, the purchase of additional land, floodlit bulky items. They have advised that such items MUGA and bowling green”. can still be taken to a local Household Recycling Given this brief, the Parish Council is inviting groups or individuals with ideas on how Centre but those who are self‐isolating, have this money could be best spent to give a brief outline (in 3‐4 minutes) of their proposal COVID‐19 symptoms or are in an ‘at risk’ at the meeting. The outline should include estimates of costs and clear statements of category should not visit HRCs. how it will benefit the village. The nearest ADVDC centre to Stewkley is Rabans IMPORTANT: Please let the parish clerk know as soon as possible if you would like to Close, Aylesbury HP19 8RS. be added to the meeting agenda to present ([email protected]) as the Leighton Buzzard Household Waste Recycling agenda is published a couple of weeks before the meeting. Alternatively use the mail Centre, Shenley Hill Road, Leighton Buzzard, box for the parish council at St. Michael’s School. LU7 3BT is however much closer to Stewkley. Table top reports: Village groups and societies will be invited to report on their ARE YOU STRUGGLING TO activities over the past year as table‐top reports. Tables will be set up for those groups to talk directly with anyone interested in their activities, or groups can leave a copy of WALK YOUR DOG? their report to be read by those who attend. I am doing my Silver Duke of Edinburgh award Tables will also be set up for the 20’s Plenty campaigners, the S106 leisure project and for the six months volunteering element, I and the Community Bus group, another project that has been active over the past year. would like to walk a friendly dog, at least once a The community bus team have organised several well‐attended outings. Your week, for an elderly and/or infirm villager wh o thoughts and feedback on the role and possible uses of a community bus will be needs the help. greatly appreciated. I am 14 (nearly 15), well behaved, strong and I So with plenty and variety on the agenda, support democracy at work in your village love the outdoors. and come to the Annual Parish Meeting. The meeting starts at 7pm and should be If you are interested in my help please call or finished by 8.30pm. This meeting is now likely to be cancelled. Please check with message my mum, Millie 07765 220378. the Parish Clerk 0771 635696. Page 8 Stewkley Grapevine April 2020 BOOK CLUB RECOMMENDS READERS WRITE

As some people may find themselves self stuck at home we In light of the current situation Rachael Webb of Littlecote wondered what might be a good book to read, so we asked felt compelled to get the following off her chest: the book club’s Greg Bellamy for his recommendation: MOTHER NATURE LIGHTENS UP Some (not necessarily the Grapevine Team, who strive to The Sealwoman's Gift be balanced and impartial) are calling the COVID-19 virus Mother Nature’s revenge, pay-back time for we humans by Sally Magnusson persistently disrespecting her and ignoring what we This novel, based on true events, was one that the believed to be manageable consequences. Stewkley book group really enjoyed. From over-heating the planet to poisoning the air we breathe, or obliterating habitats and the precious life they In 1627 Barbary pirates raided the coast of Iceland, host, we now have our sights set on other worlds so that abducting 400 people then sold into slavery in Algiers. we can exhaust them as well for our own selfish existence, either with mining or colonisation. Little is known about what happened to the women Around Stewkley and Aylesbury Vale, we have seen all too and children, and this novel gives voice to Asta, the often the devastation of a once beautiful rural idyll with captured pastor's wife. over-development – often inappropriate, soulless or poor She is enslaved in an alien Arab culture, surviving her quality – not to mention our incessant demands to fly anywhere and everywhere at any time, regardless of the loss of freedom, and children, by recalling the sagas noise overhead that drowns out the birds and the bees and folktales of her homeland. and compromises our precious sleep. We even prioritise The Icelandic and Arab stories recounted emphasise roads and railways, new towns and warehouses, ahead of agriculture, as if relying on food imports is a sustainable their power to support her needs and protect minds in strategy! unhappy times. In Nature Watch this month there is a picture of a smiling crab shell.Perhaps Mother Nature is telling us that if a crab can smile, we will be smiling again soon, as long as this time we have learned our lesson. If you have enjoyed a good book let us know what it was and why.

SURROUNDING STEWKLEY A number of nearby, large‐scale infrastructure projects have taken that mirrors the successful action against Heathrow Airport’s third steps forward – and back – in recent weeks. runway, that the Government has failed to take account of the Ox­Cam Expressway: The proposed motorway paralleling the project’s carbon emissions and climate impact. East‐West rail line through Winslow is now “paused”, pending One objective of HS2 is to free capacity on the West Coast mainline exploration of alternative road projects that could support the for local travellers, to experience more comfortable commutes into Government’s ambition for 1m new homes between the two London for example. university cities. The Expressway had drawn criticism because of At its closest, HS2 will be about ten miles from Stewkley (near the unavoidable destruction of vast tracts of countryside and Quainton). The impact on Stewkley’s roads of related construction wildlife and significant blight during its construction traffic is not yet known, but it is possible that any congestion or (https://highwaysengland.co.uk/oxford‐to‐cambridge‐ slow‐moving traffic on the official routes caused or exacerbated by expressway‐home/) HS2 could prompt other drivers to find alternative routes through East West Rail (EWR): The more loved (or less loathed) rural areas. The closest routes to Stewkley currently proposed are reinstatement of a railway line between Oxford and Cambridge is from the M1 through Milton Keynes to the A421 past Buckingham, making progress, with government‐approval of the Bicester to through Gawcott and Calvert, past Quainton to the A41 Bicester Bedford section that includes a new station at Winslow and a spur Road west of Waddesdon. Another joins the M1 to the A4146 Stoke route from Bletchley to Aylesbury. The anticipated benefits of the Hammond bypass then the A418 through Wing and Aylesbury. project are faster journey times, lower transport costs and easing (https://www.buckscc.gov.uk/services/environment/high‐speed‐ pressure on local roads. But despite fo recast mortality of barn owls, 2‐hs2/ ) there will be no additional protection for this species. Milton Keynes 2050: Milton Keynes Council has published its There will be a construction compound at Little Horwood with an draft strategy for expansion up to 2050. The strategy has been anticipated total of 220 daily two‐way trips by HGVs, LGVs, and criticised by Bucks CC and AVDC because it includes ‘land‐grabbing’ staff/operatives. The designated traffic route to Little Horwood parts of Buckinghamshire, while leaving land within the current from the south is from the Stoke Hammond bypass to Bletchley Milton Keynes boundary untouched. The strategy is also dictating Road into Stewkley then onto Mursley Road. how other Bucks communities should develop, e.g. Winslow, for the ( https://eastwestrail.co.uk/ ) benefit of Milton Keynes. HS2: While the Prime Minister has announced that HS2 – the high‐ The public consultation has been extended but closes on Friday speed rail line from London to Birmingham, Leeds and Manchester 1 May. – will go ahead, legal obstacles remain, including a judicial review More information at https://www.mkfutures2050.com

Grapevine email address: [email protected]. Find the latest issue online at www.stewkleygrapevine.co.uk Stewkley Grapevine April 2020 Page 9

Methodist Chapel St Michael’s Church Minister Rev Donna Broadbent-Kelly Church Wardens: The Manse, Neil Dickens High Street South [email protected] Tel: 242253 Tel 240589 Judy Walker Email: [email protected] [email protected] Tel: 240444 Web: www.aylesburyvale.org.uk SERVICES FOR APRIL SERVICES FOR APRIL 5 10.30am Palm Sunday – Rev Donna Broadbent Kelly – 5 10am AT THE METHODIST CHAPEL - Palm Sunday – joint service with St Michael’s Rev Donna Broadbent-Kelly. 12 10.30am Easter Family Celebration Service led by 12 10am Parish Communion and Easter Egg Hunt - Rev Stewards John Payne Cook 19 10am Café Church – Mr Arthur Sara 19 10amALL SERVICES AND Messy Church led by Lillie Jenkins for more 26 10.30amALL SERVICES AND Rev Andrew Shergold information please check with Lillie (0790 5678917), on Church Noticeboard or on ● Lunches - Saturday 18 April 12 noon – 1.30pm. Please check MEETINGS CANCELLED Facebook with MaryMEETINGS CANCELLED (01296 688741) or Lynda (01525 240337) if lunch will be served. NO LUNCH IN MAY 26 10amUNTIL FURTHER NOTICE NO SERVICE AT STEWKLEY. Shared Parish UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE Communion at SOULBURY– Rev Andrew Krauss MUTUAL FELLOWSHIP meets at 7.30pm on Friday evenings in † Children’s Church (Sunday School) 12 April in the Hut at the Methodist Chapel School Room. All welcome 10am. ► 10 April – Rev Broadbent-Kelly - Good Friday Meditation † To sponsor the illumination of St Michael’s Church (Hot Cross Buns to follow) contact Geoff Ball 240765.

MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTER MESSAGE FROM THE LICENSED LAY MINISTER Hello friends, OF COTTELSOE TEAM Easter really is a lovely time of year. The lambs have Hello, been in the fields now for a few weeks, and the Gosh. How much has changed in such a very short daffodils have been adding that much needed time. As I write this I have just had to announce that colour to the garden. Easter is also a time for us to a breakfast service in Wingrave is now going to be get away. After the ups and downs of Holy Week a “Sorry no breakfast” service. Will we, like the when I’ll be juggling services and childcare, a break churches in Italy, be advised to close our doors? away from it all will be much needed. Norfolk is one Well, the church is the people not the building of our new-found places to visit. The waterways and and the church is strong and courageous. And our wetlands that make up the Norfolk Broads are just stunning. The sandy message is one of love. Love your God and love beaches of course are a hit with the children and the dog. Last Easter your neighbour as yourself. Let me deal with this in reverse order: we found this most stunning beach, it was a beautiful day but still a bit Love yourself. Look after your own health and well-being, because if breezy. It had been a bit of a journey, a few arguments along the way you don’t you won’t be able to help others. between the kids and with the Sat Nav, so we were all ready for a bit of Love your neighbour. That is anyone you are aware of who might need fresh air and quiet. shopping, or prescriptions collected or a phone call to check they are We sat eating our picnic on some rocks and it was just silent, the sea OK. was far out so we couldn’t even hear that. There was no-one else Love God. We may be advised not to touch one another but we can around – and it was ever so peaceful. As we sat there I wondered about still meet, pray, hear God’s word, sing His praises. those first disciples that had heard the news on Easter day that he was God is in all the heroic work of the health professionals and all the small risen. It must have been a time of excitement and confusion, as well as deeds of neighbourly kindness. celebration. At the end of John’s Gospel, it tells a beautiful story of the God bless disciples sitting and eating breakfast on the beach with Jesus. There is Annie Cooper LLM a beautiful sense of calm and peace amongst all the rushing about. 07860 140041 [email protected] Jesus goes on and tells them what they must do and the ministry that they are called to. COFFEE STOP Whilst it was lovely to sit and be still, it soon came time to move on and go back home, back to the work that God had called me to do and Thanks to all who raised £243 in March for PACE (Helping back to busy diaries. So we packed everything up and headed back to children with motor disorders) the car. As we walked back, we still didn’t see anyone around. It was getting quite peculiar to be honest. As we put the last of the things Due to the advice about the coronavirus outbreak into the car, Dave noted a sign. It read… Welcome to the Nudist Beach. We never quite know where we are going to end up do we, those first Coffee Stop is cancelled until further notice. disciples didn’t know where they would end up when they answered the call from Jesus to “follow me”, and neither do we! When we set off HOPE AND RAINBOWS on our journey I would never have thought I would feel God’s presence on a nudist beach, but I did! We have heard from a couple of different sources that a picture of Whatever you get up to this Easter, may you find those moments of a rainbow placed in a window is becoming a bit of a thing. peace and feel God’s presence. But remember if you follow the call of Rev Donna has posted on social media that it would be nice to see Jesus, you might also be surprised where you find yourselves and where people put rainbows in their window as a sign of hope, and this is you find His presence. With blessings already taking off. Donna Trish Higgins came across it in New Zealand as something which is being done to give children something to do and look out for as CHAPEL OPEN FOR QUIET PRAYER they go out for walks. Although all normal activities have been cancelled the Chapel You may even find a rainbow or two hidden in this month’s opened for quite prayer on Mothering Sunday. Grapevine. Page 10 Stewkley Grapevine August 2019 BUNT SCOTT THOUGHTS ON ...BOYHOOD Pt.1.

Arriving to live in Dunton Road aged 7, my boyhood in the late fifties and early sixties was really quite carefree, indeed idyllic. My best friend, who lived nearby, was the notoriously defiant and unruly Tich Tomes, who announced himself by saying, "You can be in my gang." I gleefully joined. I was duped as I was always the only one in the gang! Tich and I spent much of our time over the fields having 'adventures', building camps and bird nesting, frowned upon now but quite acceptable then. Along with fellow friend Pete Beasley we became expert in finding obscure nests ‐ chiff chaffs, reed buntings, plovers etc. We were responsible in that we only ever took one egg from a nest. We climbed the massively tall trees in Black End Spinney to get to rooks’ nests and carefully carried eggs down by putting them safely in our mouths. When I was twelve my father died and my mother was forced into selling our house (St. Martin’s Cottage) and look for somewhere else to live. As a family we had to temporarily split up. My mother eventually bought Plough Cottage for £1175! In the meantime my mother and sister went to stay with Geoffrey Ginn, the village headmaster and his wife Barbara, my brother was billeted with Peggy and Ivor Thomas at Vicarage Farm and I shacked up with Tich. I've never forgotten how kind Tich's parents were. I shared a bed with Tich, there was no bathroom just an outside lavatory and ablutions were done in the kitchen sink with cold water. Tich's dad, also known as Tich, was a severe and fearsome man and would frequently call young Tich to order by bellowing, "I'll tan yer arse boy." I was a polite lad and he never raised his voice to me. Tich and Bunt At the weekends Tich and I were given our Saturday sixpence lot on a Mars Bar, which was considerably bigger than the (2½p) and we would joyfully head for Bob and Wilf's nearby shop miserable ones on offer now. Wilf later died and Bob married Mabel to spend it on sweets. In those days sixpence would buy you a lot. (Wilf's sweetheart) and ‘Bob and Mabel’s’ shop achieved legendary Black Jacks for example were four a penny but you could blow the and venerable status in Stewkley. More of them another time. The CarPenTers arms sTewkLey TeL: 01525 240029

Takeaway food & drInk avaILaBLe daily 4pm -8pm Burgers, Chilli and Veg Balti call for more information Please call if you are unable to leave your home, delivery in Stewkley may be available. Please bring your own drinks containers Bitter £3 a pint Lager £3.50 a pint Guiness £3.50 a pint

Call 01525 240029 To place food orders so you do not have to hang around cash payment preferred please

1 wing road, high st reet south, stewkley Stewkley Grapevine April 2020 Page 11 A COTTAGE GARDEN OF MEMORIES from Diana Sheldon When we came to Old Street, are starting to green up. Timbers 37 years ago, I was It was impossible to leave her excited by the discoveries I house without having might make in an old, well‐ something pressed into your established garden. I was to hand—a recipe, a piece of be disappointed, a front cake, or usually plants. I hope rockery full of couch grass she would be pleased with and a lawn full of rhubarb. how her cuttings have grown. Over the years my garden I have a variegated holly (Ilex now holds memories of aquifolium) bought for me by friends, family and village another special friend following a Christmas wreath‐making day events. Spring is a magical out at Greys Court, so that I’d always have foliage for future wreaths. time of year for me. It’s A David Austin rose (Benjamin Britten) has pride of place in my exciting to see ‘old friends’ front border, a 50th birthday gift that brings back happy memories reappear after almost a year of another dear friend. underground. However, I have two lasting reminders of former village residents. My mouse tail plant was The old Bramley apple tree (Malus domestica) that is at least 100 given to me by a dear friend years old, which sadly needed drastic pruning last autumn because and keen gardener, who asked me to create a painting of it for her of root degradation, has been visited on a couple of occasions by in the 1990s. The painting (above right) went with her to a nursing past guardians of my plot. One old boy called at the door and asked: home to serve as a reminder of her wonderful garden in Stewkley. “Is the old apple tree still there?” My mouse tail plant (Arisarum proboscideum) is just showing one This 1920s photo (above left) is a delightful study of George Pitkin leaf above the ground as I write this…hello Anne. relaxing in the back garden of Old Timbers. He was nick‐named Snowd rops, a white lilac and ferns from my father’s ga rden in ‘Timer’, and he sold vegetable seeds each spring. The Bramley tree Croxley Green are now in abundance. Hyacinths taken to my father supports a fine bird‐box given to me by dear Robert Dickens the when he was ill in hospital, and planted out in my garden, have year before he passed away. It has been occupied every year since, appeared every year since 1999. fledging many blue tits, coal tits and was even a home to bees one There are primroses everywhere, so evocative of my spring school year. holidays spent at my grandparents’ farm in Worcestershire, where I don’t know how the red my sister and I picked bunches of them to bring home to our rose in my front rockery parents. survives. I try to feed it. Of There are aconites from another dear village friend, who would course it gets little rain declare excitedly at this time of year: “Spring must be almost here, because of the overhanging my aconites are out!” thatch, but it is a fine testament to whoever may A complete box hedge and box balls, all grown from cuttings give n have planted it in years gone to me by the late René Dove, my lovely neighbour across the High by.

KIZZIE BEAVER SCOUTS, CUBS SCOUTS AND SCOUTS Since rescuing ‘Callie’ in 1980 All meetings have been cancelled. Stewkley resident Flip Jackson Andy Dunn told Grapevine ‘Unfortunately we have been instructed and his late wife Jackie have to suspend meetings for the foreseeable future by the Scout over the years rescued and Association along with visits and camps. Hopefully for not too long. given a new home to many cats All our parents have been informed. For now we have a chance to and kittens. Flip was saddened catch up with some jobs in the hut.’ to report that on 11 March ‘Kizzie’, rescued in 2004, had BUCKS ART WEEK CANCELLED passed away at a family home This years Bucks Art Week has been cancelled. It was expected to leaving ‘Tricksy’, rescued in be a great event this year and is unfortunate for three Stewkley 2012 as the last remaining artists who have been wo rking hard towa rds it. We plan to cove r rescuee. the wo rks that we re due to be entered in a future issue of Grapevine. email: [email protected] Page 12 Stewkley Grapevine April 2020 Nature Watch

Bird Watch Nature Watch Abroad This barn owl (tyto alba) was seen several times last month Last month saw two members of the team on the move and away hovering over the Littlecote fields. The header photo was captured from the village. Haywood Park’s Trish Higgins travelled to the as it patrolled a grass field, moving slowly back and forth across sunny shores of New Zealand, whereas Littlecote’s Hilary Wingfield the field looking for prey. made it as far as a wet and windy north Wales. Barn owls are built for slow flight without stalling, having low body Imagine Trish’s delight when, miles from home, missing her friends weight and large wings. They also have very soft feathers which aid and being sorely missed in return, she picks up a crab shell on quiet flight, though they tend to avoid hunting in the rain as those Moeraki Boulders Beach and finds it smiling up at her. It isn’t a same feathers are not practical in wet weather. smirk or a grimace either, but a friendly emoji. In fact, the barn owl is designed for hunting. For example its heart‐ shaped face or ‘facial disc’ collects sound and directs it towards its inner ears. Its hearing is the most sensitive of any animal ever tested and it is able to detect the slightest sound or movement from small mammals below, even in total darkness. With long legs and talons it is able to reach into longer vegetation and snatch prey. And it is thought that prey is killed by foot clenching rather than pecking. Interestingly, one talon has a comb, specifically designed to groom the facial disc. From below barn owls appear white, though their upper colouring is light brown and grey which blends into their surroundings from above, providing good camouflage. Barn owls nest in enclosed spaces; in barns, ruined buildings, hollow trees or specially made nest boxes and they have for a long time been associated with churches. It is perhaps this association, combined with their piercing shrieks, cries and hisses that gave rise to owls being linked to evil. An owl’s wing is a key ingredient in the witches’ brew of Macbeth. Wildlife Reserve Scientists from the Open University have produced a report based on their studies undertaken at Stewkley’s Wildlife Reserve as part Hilary’s spot was not such a cheerful one, but rather something that of their work with the Floodplain Meadows Partnership might feature in a scary movie. During a walk in the forest she came (floodplainmeadows.org.uk ). across this tree, completely covered in moss, creating an eerie green glow. In July 2018 Dr Irina Tatarenko and Dr Mike Dodd from the OU Faculty of Science undertook a ‘quadrat survey’ of the plant‐life and Moss will grow pretty much anywhere that has enough water, and a soil survey. The study followed an earlier visit by their OU there has been a colleagues Professor David Gowing (the FMP Project Director) and lot of that this Emma Rothero (Project Manager), (pictured below with Reserve winter. It needs Curator Alan Dickens water because it is on the left)as reported ‘non‐vascular’, in in the Grapevine. other words it doesn’t have the The report concluded ability to move that all the Reserve’s water around the fields have excellent plant. It also needs potential to become water to (and Old Church reproduce – the Furlong already is) male cells move species‐rich, flower across a film of hay meadows, and the water to reach Reserve’s restoration female cells. is an important addition to the inventory of the “burnet floodplain meadow community” in the UK. Trees offer other benefits to Suggestions on accelerating the flower colonisations included mosses. The rough planting more herbs in New Church Furlong, and occasional double bark has crevices that offer ideal habitats for tiny spores to develop hay cuts (June and September) in New Church Furlong and Jackdaw and growing ‘rhizoids’ (a bit like roots) to take hold. Smooth‐ to speed up nutrient reduction. barked trees tend to have less moss than rough‐barked oaks for “Otherwise,” the report concludes, “continuation of the careful example. And there aren’t many other species that can grow on tending of these meadows will produce increasingly species rich vertical structures, meaning that there is less competition. And it meadows,” which is a ringing endorsement of the dedication and is true that moss is more likely to grow on the north side of trees, hard work by curator Alan Dickens. where there is less sun and more wet. Sources: The Barn Owl Trust, The Woodland Trust Stewkley Grapevine April 2020 Page 13 Farm Watch By Richard Heady

March in our farming calendar brings lambing and spring‐crop The littlest lamb had severe tendon issues and couldn’t stop doing planting, one of which is well underway, and we are still waiting to the splits, he had got thoroughly chilled, and with his condition had start the other. little chance of survival. If he did pull through he would make no Having owned sheep for a number of years now, I have grown to economic sense to rear but, as a farmer, it’s not about the money; expect an element of spontaneity from the species – for instance, it’s about our love of animals and job satisfaction, so I set to work. the ability of the only black sheep, in a field the size of 30 football First on the action plan was to bring him up to temperature, so I pitches, to find a colour‐matching black cultivator and get stuck sat him on a hot water bottle surrounded with deep fresh straw. beneath it (header) earlier last month, leading to a wet afternoon Next I needed playing a rubbish version of hide‐and‐seek. to get some They also like to play a game of ‘ignore our due date’ and lamb as warm early as possible just to see if they can catch me out. Luckily I drove colostrum the sheep closer to the farm a week before their due date, just a day into him. before they did actually start lambing. Being so cold So what does lambing entail for the farmer… well a lot of looking and starting at sheep bums to be honest. The earlier we can detect that a sheep to give up on life, he had no chance of suckling from a bottle let alone his mother, so I melted some frozen colostrum (I had milked from one of our cows last May), and poured it directly into his stomach via a tube. I repeated this every four hours for the first 24 hours. As he started to show signs of recovery I set to the next challenge – his legs. He seemed to lack the ability to hold his legs together, so of course (as a farmer) my first thoughts were to get out the baler twine, but pooling my childhood Blue Peter memories, I refined some splints with pipe insulation, gaffer tape (substituting for sticky‐back plastic) and has started lambing the better, as this allows us to make a more baler twine. informed decision about whether things are progressing naturally, Fingers still or if we need to intervene. It’s always a tough call: intervene too crossed it early and we could cause unnecessary stress to the ewe; leave it seems to be too late and if there is an issue we might lose the lamb. doing the So far lambing has been fairly straightforward for us. At the trick, he now moment there is one ewe with triplets soaking up a stands on his disproportionate amount of my time. own and is She had all three lambs by herself overnight, but the littlest lamb starting to stumble around the pen with a renewed love of life. In was spread‐eagled on the floor in an unnatural position, and one the meantime his mother has got used to his bigger sister and is lamb had been claimed by another broody ewe. So after removing allowing her to suckle without a fight. We are currently only a third the distraught kidnapper (who had two lambs of her own later that of the way through lambing, so I am sure there will be a few more day), I penned up the triplets and found the mother was now challenges around the corner, but it’s these challenges that make rejecting the kidnapped lamb, and would bunt her away hard us stronger. whenever she tried to suckle. As always jump onto @headysfarm on facebook or twitter to find out more or ask any questions. Page 14 Stewkley Grapevine April 2020 DOWN MEMORY LANE Continuing our series looking at Stewkley past and present Continuity of the Village Shop There has been a continuous retail presence on the site of today’s ‘Stewkley Food and Wine’ shop since at least the late 1880s. Back then it was kept by Henry Lee White as a grocery and drapery store. This 1925 image shows G Angood’s grocery and hardware shop. The Brooke Bond Tea sign remains over the shop even today, and anecdotally it seems, few passing children could resist banging the tin advertisement sign for Zebra Grate Polish. Angoods also owned the thatched building on the other side of the High Street, now the site of The Retreat. From that store, Angoods offered quite an emporium of furniture and housewares. One could buy souvenir china items © marked: ‘A Present from Stewkley.’ In 1937, Philip Thomas brought his family from Cheshire to run the shop until the mid 1950s. Since then, the shop site has hosted premises selling groceries, the village post office, hairdressing and an estate agent. Tucked behind the thatched store, and in the modern photo stepping out gable‐ end to the High Street, No 57 was the original 1800s Wesleyan Methodist Chapel. It provides a dynamic element in the streetscape. At the vanishing point of the photographs, the curve in the road has the effect of emphasising the cottages at Nos 61 to 65 within their treed setting. No 63 was the first village policeman’s home. It’s a pity about the car parking—the solitary push‐bike speaks volumes. ©

© Images used in Grapevine are produced with the permission of the persons supplying them, are copyrighted to them and may not be reproduced. We are not able to supply copies.

FROM THE GRAPEVINE 10 YEARS AGO…

April From April 2010, Stewkley crimestoppers were at work assisting police, supported by a helicopter, in the arrest of 2010 Stewkley

Crime stoppers Police supported by a helicopter apprehended a man and recover van containing what are thought to be stolen items after a chase acrossed a fields. Five police officers were checking a suspected thief on the run in the village…villagers were about to be assailed by a ‘housing needs survey’ from vehicles driving along the High Street when they saw a supicious white van. It eluded them, but shortly afterwards a villager pointed suspect men, believed to haveout been two involved in a theft. Police approached them, but they ran away, making off over fields and a chase ensued. One of them men was arrested.

Community Impact Bucks…the Grapevine launched its ‘What’s On’ page 3 section, free for village organisations… Soon after another villager report helped police locate the white van, tucked away up a track. Neighbourhood police officer Frank Callaghan told the Grapevine: is a good example of police and “This Stewkley Players production of the cl public working together to prevent good audiences at the Village Hall last and detect crime. It also shows how played by B assic farce Tons of Money played t important it is for members of th eth Stedman, has just hear Scrivener) that the husband she thweek. Here Jean Evera public to re Continued Page 6 Photo: Steve Munday d from her friend Louiserd, Allington on the right,(Jilly Stewkley Youth Club had grown to over 50 members, with two evening sessions according to age group…Stewkley ought dead may actually be alive. EVENT ADVERTISING

From next month the Grapevine will have a AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN STEWKLEY new “What’s On” The following comes from Community Impact Bucks (formerly a section. In future, all FREE ds for events held by village orga Bucks Community Action) should be the same shape and size as this nisations Aylesbury Vale District Council, and St box whose officers are – 815mm x 513mm. Ads submitted in The Stewkley Parish Plan Survey revealed that working with larger format will be reduced, or omitted. Ads ewkley Parish Council: should be in a Word document (.doc), or a have a need for additional affordable housing for local people.

JPEG file (.jpg). Ever increasing house prices are forcing morethe villageand more Short e parishioners either to move away or to remain as part of mayan Singers were to go ‘on tour’ to St John’s Church, Whitchurch for their spring concert featuring Vivaldi’s Gloria… forthcoming events ditorialare welcome. items about existing household. A Housi by hand throughout Stewkleyng during Needs the Survey last two will weeks be distrib of May and will, it is hoped housing need within , result in a comprehensive overviewuted of Next issue deadline: Responses are neededthe community. whether they are 6pm Tuesday , whether April 13 housing in need or kno villagers are for, . P lease take the time to completew someone the form andor return it To advertise, call 240069 to Community Impact Bucks (for against, who is in need of in the freepost envelope by the deadline of Friday June merly Bucks Community Action) Editorial content to If a need is established, any housing pro Dave Willis reported on successful progress with his ‘hands‐off’ computer funded by Stewkley folk…and the Tennis Harveys or Fountains or email local people who belong to the parish [email protected] and for the use vided will always 18. be for

of the villagers in perpetuity, says CIB. Download in colour ** A recent survey by the National Housing and Federation will remain affordable at www.stewkley.org the number of over 65s living in rural rise of 39% from 2008. It says communities will struggle to support the ageing population unless more affordable England homes will are hit built. predicts that 3.23m by 2020 – a

Club was offering a glass of wine to tempt members to the opening club night.

FROM THE GRAPEVINE 20 YEARS AGO… From April 2000, an Easter 2000 greeting from Stewkley’s churches featured on the front page…delivery had been delayed of the special plates to all village homes to mark the Millennium due to production difficulties…Bucks County Council confirmed that Stewkley was eligible for a traffic‐calming scheme with up to nine road chicanes necessary to reduce traffic speed…Robert Dickens was to give a talk entitled ‘Stewkley Yesteryear’ in aid of St Michael’s Bell Restoration Fund…Bunt Scott wrote a letter of thanks to well‐wishers who sent cards and gifts after “a greedy flesh‐eating bug had munched its way around his hand”, and in typical Bunt‐style, asked “who had sent the fish fingers?”…and the Parish Council had upped its grant for the maintenance of the Recreation Ground to £3,300. Stewkley Grapevine April 2020 Page 15 1-2-1 TUITION IN MATHS, SCIENCE, ENGLISH THE GRAPEVINE, STEWKLEY Maths, Science/Physics: KS1-4, English: KS2. Inc 11+ Qualified 121 tutor with CRB. Call Roger Crews on 07946 568153 or The Stewkley Grapevine is published monthly, except for January. Copies Email: [email protected] are distributed free of charge to all households (over 780) in Stewkley. Further copies are made available for visitors at various locations in the STORAGE village. It is also available for download at www.stewkley.org STEWKLEY STORAGE LTD Publication date: 1st of each month except January. For all your storage needs. Domestic & Commercial Deadline for advertisements: 15th of month prior to publication. Rooms & Containers. Larkshill Farm, Stewkley Rd, Soulbury www.stewkleystorage.co.uk Tel: 01525 240297 Advertising Copy: By email to [email protected] or by hand to 111A High Street South. MOUNT PLEASANT FARM STORAGE 20 foot shipping containers available for general storage Display Ad Format: Electronic advertisements should be supplied as .pdf, but we can also Short or long term lets at competitive rates accept .doc or hi resolution .jpg files For best quality, images should be Mount Pleasant Farm, Dunton Road, Stewkley 300dpi. Tel: 07866 609047 or Email: [email protected] All advertisements are printed in greyscale. Please check your ad is readable in monochrome. Pre-paid ads may be changed at no extra cost.

Classified Ad Guidelines: Generally one line header, plus up to 12 words of text, plus contact BLOCKED DRAIN? details. One line header plus 13- 24 words of text, plus contact details for twice the price. COUNTY DRAINAGE & PLUMBING SOLUTIONS Advertising Rates: Stewkley Non-Stewkley YOUR LOCAL DRAINAGE EXPERT For Sale (Max of 2 items) £5 £10 Classified £5 £10 WITH OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE Classified highlighted £10 £20 Forthcoming events Free* Not available 01525 222439 or 07944297538 (*Limited to Classified Allowance). Display, Eighth Page £15 £25 (w:93 x h:65mm landscape) High Pressure Water Jetting ‐ CCTV Survey’s Display, Quarter Page £25 £35 (w:93 x h:135mm portrait) Specialist in Drain Repair ‐ Replacement and Relining Display, Half Page £35 £55 (w:192 x h:135mm landscape)

All work fully Guaranteed Ad Payment Terms: Payment in advance of first publication 3-5 issues 5% discount Email: [email protected] 6-10 issues 10% discount 11 issues (annual) 15% discount Monthly Standing Order on 12th of month. 10% Discount. Minimum period - 6 months. Cost of 11 Issues is spread over 12 months.

Ad Payment Contact: 01525 242137 or email: [email protected] Next Deadline for Ads: STRICTLY 6pm WEDNESDAY 15 APRIL

HOME MAINTENANCE T.G.R ELECTRICAL Stewkley based, Elecsa Approved Electrician. Sockets, lights etc. Free quotes. Call: 240498 or Mobile: 07840 100501 STEWKLEY DECORATING Quality work, Guaranteed, Fully Insured, Reliable, Trustworthy & PDA Member. Instagram @stewkleydecs. [email protected] www.StewkleyDecorating.com Call Stewart on 07981 226922 DAVE REID. FULLY QUALIFIED CARPENTER Kitchen & bathroom upgrades, staircase conversions, Replacement doors, general maintenance & small building work. 07939 146630 email: [email protected] (Soulbury) WANTED JTS DECORATING SERVICE & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE MEN’S HYBRID BIKE(S) Call John on 240372, mobile: 07809 113090, For 6ft teenagers (aged 15 & 18), Frame size: 58-60cm or 23/24 Email: [email protected] inches.Please contact Millie 07765 220378.

SERVICES WING PARK MOTORS - AUTOMOBILE ENGINEERS Repairs and servicing all makes of car. VW /Audi specialists. TO ADVERTISE IN Supplier of most makes of tyres. Stewkley Road, Wing Tel: 01296 688256. GRAPEVINE PLEASE COUNTRY FRAME The complete picture framing service. From prints and posters to CALL 242137 paintings and needlework. Tel: 240163 / 07771 508805 : Paul Body. Please call first. or email HORSE RIDING LESSONS IN STEWKLEY From complete beginners to experienced riders. Adults and [email protected] children. Fully licensed/ insured. Call Sarah Gammon, Kilnholm Stables. 240529 or 07712 854034. Page 16 Stewkley Grapevine April 2020

J T WHITE

For a free quotation call Jon: Tel:01296 682387 or 07940 014020 Fully insured with 20 years of experience. www.jtwhitelandscapes.com

J & J LUXFORD LTD ANNETTE GESOFF Stewkley based builders Advanced Clinical Massage For all your building needs project Therapist managed from design to completion AN EFFECTIVE TREATMENT FOR MANY For testimonials and information visit CONDITIONS www.luxfordbuilders.co.uk Visit my website for further information: Contacts: www.gesoffmassage.co.uk Please phone: 01525 240135 or 07709 629283 Julian Luxford 07885 455203 Or email: enquiry@gesoffmassage.co.uk James Luxford 07860 726741

(Opposite Aylesbury Vale Golf Club) Wing Road, Stewkley, Beds. LU7 0JB Telephone : 01525 240837 Regular Opening Hours : Tuesday - Sunday 10am to 4pm (Closed Mondays)

Throughout the year we have a great range of Herbaceous Perennials, Shrubs, Roses, Alpines, Herbs, Cacti and Bedding Plants

OPEN AS USUAL FOR PLANTS, EGGS AND SHOP

SORRY, NO GROUP EVENTS UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE - CATHY

Follow us on Facebook: BLACKTHORN NURSERY Gardening Tips ‐ New Stock ‐ Event Information Stewkley Grapevine April 2020 Page 17

CHARLESGARDEN SERVICES HILL LTD DESIGN BUILD MAINTAIN LANDSCAPE CONTRACTORS NCH Horticulture. City & Guilds Garden Design A professional company working with all your garden requirements from design to complete landscape. 07773 723236 www.charleshillgardenservices.co.uk www.allyearoundbbq.co.uk

“Dedicated to the provision of outstanding childcare”

We provide a safe and fun environment with a wide range of toys and activities for the children to express themselves and develop.

Our large garden provides extensive opportunity for outdoor play.

‘growing wildly beautiful, naturally scented flowers’ Our team of highly qualified staff are committed to providing exceptional care and education that ensures our children’s Seasonal British Flowers progress towards the Early Learning Goals.

Direct From the Farm

Locally Grown Country Flowers We offer places for 2 to 4 year olds: for weddings, funerals and events • Morning sessions: Mon to Fri 9.00am - 12.00 noon

Bouquets for local delivery • 2 yr old sessions (PAFT): Mon to Fri 9.00am – 11.00am

Creative workshops • Lunch Clubs available: Mon to Fri 12.00pm - 1.00pm

• Rising 4s afternoon session: Wed & Thurs 1.00pm - 3.30pm The Artisan Gift Shop is now open

Supporting local artists & makers For further details please call/text 07925 541118 or email )UHVKÁRZHUVDYDLODEOH [email protected]

Open Fri & Sat 10am – 5.30pm Stewkley Cygnets Pre-school, Chapel Square, Stewkley, LU70HB For enquiries call Rosie 07876 394 086

Town Farm, Hoggeston Buckingham MK18 3LQ PLEASE CALL TO CONFIRM ZZZZLOGURVHÁRZHUFRPSDQ\FRXN CURRENT ARRANGEMENTS

)ROORZXV#ZLOGURVHÁRZHUFRPSDQ\ Page 18 Stewkley Grapevine April 2020

SUPERIOR INTERIORS WOBURN BUILDING DECORATING SERVICES

SERVICES Provide a highly professional and comprehensive decorating service with over 30 years experience Specialised building work PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION www.superiordecor.co.uk New builds and extensions Contact Jim Munro Kitchens supplied and fitting service Mob: 07788 921865 Tel: 01525 240741 Email: [email protected]

Bathroom design and fitting

Interior and exterior alterations DAMIAN STEWART PLUMBING & HEATING Stewkley- based PROFESSIONAL QUALIFIED PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEER STUART JAMES COLEMAN ● For all your Plumbing, Gas, Oil & Heating requirements ● Boiler & appliance installations, system upgrades, servicing, fault finding & repair 01525 242111 : 07970 888236 ● Oil‐boiler and tank installations, service & repair ● Complete bathroom installations & design Email: [email protected] ● No job too small / Fee no obligation quote / No call out charge www.woburnbuildingservices.co.uk Tel: 01296 688968 / 07527 900028 E mail: [email protected] www.damianstewartplumbing.co.uk EST 1986 7 Chiltern Road, Wingrave, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP22 2QQ

Indoor and outdoor lighting New fuse board Additional sockets New power supply Full rewires Fire alarms Smoke detectors PLEASE CALL TO CONFIRM CURRENT ARRANGEMENTS Perodic testing CCTV All work guaranteed. PART P approved No job too small

Call: Craig 07968 152 709 Email: [email protected] Stewkley Grapevine April 2020 Page 19

Beauty Studio in Stewkley Automotive Engineers ◇ Gel Nails Forge Farm, Wing Road, Stewkley ◇ Manicures & Pedicures Andrew Gurnett Lash Lift ◇ For a reliable service and all your ◇ Eyebrows motoring needs, give me a call ◇ Facials ◇ Waxing Servicing Tyres

Brands include Bio Sculpture, Gelish, Opi, MOT’s Katherine Daniels Repairs

T: 07801 564213 Exhausts & more W: www.laurenarmor.co.uk Stewkley Aylesbury Vale Instagram: @laurenarmorbeauty Golf Club Tel: 01525 240991 Facebook: @laurenarmorbeauty Mobile: 07980 600095 Forge Farm Wing Page 20 Stewkley Grapevine April 2020

KG HAYERS Your First Fully Qualified Carpenter & Joiner Session FREE

All Aspects of Carpentry & Maintenance Work

● Doors ● Windows ● Locks ● Double Glazing Repairs ● Kitchen Units & Worktops ● Painting & Decorating ● Refurbishment FABS exercise classes ● General Property Repairs ● Domestic, Commercial Flexibility, Aerobic, Balance, Strength ● Bespoke services PLEASE CALL TO CONFIRM ● CSCS Gold Card The Pavilion ● Fully Insured StewkleyCURRENT Recreation ARRANGEMENTS Ground

Free Quotes Wed 10.00 – 11.00 Contact Karl T: 01525 240484 M: 07855 749610 Enquiries to Corinne : 07988 649275 E: [email protected] [email protected]

Littlecote Farm Shop Littlecote MK18 3LN

FREE RANGE EGGS SPECIALISING IN Fat Loss Functional Training 1/2 doz ...... £1.00 Sustainable Lifestyle Changes Corporate Wellness 1 doz ...... £1.75 Health & Fitness Transformations Accountability & Support Tray ...... £4.00 PLEASE CALL TO CONFIRM OPEN 6 DAYS PER WEEK (volume available for catering - please enquire) CURRENT ARRANGEMENTS * Out of hours hut now available * EXPERT TRAINERS 10.30am - 7pm Tue-Sat Coffees / Wagyu Burgers www.huntfitness.co.uk [email protected] 07907322653 @huntfitnessuk Gluten Free Products

Local Honey / Ice Cream Cakes / Biscuits / Cheese Gifts / Cards Dog Food / Treats Stewkley Grapevine April 2020 Page 21

Chappell

Plumbing and Heating Ltd

Fully qualified and insured gas safe engineer. All central heating and hot water work undertaken. Boiler servicing, breakdowns and installations. Landlord certificates. Stewkley based.

07725 480047

Beechmoor Farm, Cublington Road, Whitchurch [email protected] Home Produced Meat : Pies, Cheeses & Olives : Fruit & Veg Milk, Bread & Eggs : Pickles & Preserves : Frozen Produce

Open Tues, Wed, Thurs & Fri 8am -5pm Saturday 7.30am - 1pm (closed Sunday & Monday). Tel: 01296 641207 : Email: parrottbros@parrott­bros.co.uk 568424 Web: www.parrott­bros.co.uk www.chappellheating.co.uk

BIKE SERVICE/SALES HOME MAINTENANCE

DECORATING FLOORING

GARDENING STABLES & FENCING

TV & CCTV WEB DESIGN

Handyman based in Drayton Parslow, covering Milton Keynes, Leighton Buzzard, Aylesbury and surrounding areas. 07464 171032 [email protected]

www.odd-jobs.co.uk Page 22 Stewkley Grapevine April 2020 “Why leave the comfort of your own home to have a great haircut?” I am one of Britain’s top stylists with over 10 years experience as Manager and Art Director for Toni and Guy. Book me to come to your home at a time of your choosing 50% OFF INTRODUCTORY OFFER FOR ALL NEW CLIENTS

K.J. WINDOWS Tel: 07738 658234 Email: [email protected] www.superhairday.co.uk Visit Superhairday on Facebook for 50 of 5 star & DOORS reviews from my clients and pictures! UPVC WINDOWS & DOORS CONSERVATORIES A.B.EATON

FASCIA & SOFFITS ● BATHROOM DESIGN & INSTALLATION BI-FOLDING DOORS ● PLUMBING HEATING ALL REPAIRS, INCLUDING ● UNDERFLOOR HEATING ● TILING & REFURBISHMENT MISTED & BROKEN UNITS ● APPRENTICESHIP SERVED ALL WORK GUARANTEED ● OVER 35 YEARS EXPERIENCE

www.kjwindows.co.uk CALL FOR A FREE QUOTE 07801 938632 CALL KEITH 07539 367200

Save up to 50% on your main dealer prices

Audi qualified & licensed technicians with over 54 years combined experience

Diagnostic repairs with the latest equipment All servicing and mechanical repairs carried out to the highest standards including brakes, clutches, cambelts etc

Complimentary courtesy car subject to availability

MOTs, Tyres and puncture repairs

www.vass-tech.co.uk T: 01296 641429 E: [email protected] 5A High Street, Whitchurch, Buckinghamshire HP22 4JU Stewkley Grapevine April 2020 Page 23 D.B'S GAS PLUMBING AND HEATING SERVICES Local village company with over 25 years experience. Boiler breakdowns, repairs & servicing. HARLEQUIN Full heating installations and extensions. PRESSLtd Gas safety checks and certification NO JOB TOO SMALL Lithographic and Digital Printing All workmanship fully insured O.A.P. 10% DISCOUNT ON HOURLY RATES Booklets Leaflets NO CALL OUT CHARGE. COMPETITIVE RATES. Brochures Letterheads Tel office: 240784 Tel Daron: 07799 122971 Business Cards Magazines Compliment Slips Newsletters Computer Support for Home & Business Users Delivery Notes Note pads

Problem Solving: Directories Order of Service Virus, spyware detection & removal Internet & email assistance Fault diagnostics, repairs & upgrades Draw Tickets Personal Stationery Slow running PCs Event Tickets Postcards Services: mation Computer support for PCs, Mac & Linux Invitations Programmes Wireless & wired networking Data recovery Invoice Books/Sets Timetables @ Install & setup Health checks 29 years in print Sales: Friendly Service, Free Advice Desktops, laptops, printers, peripherals & software computer support & services For friendly advice call John on Tel: 01908 506722 07968 536068 or 01525 261381 email: [email protected] - www.computamation.co.uk 12 Bacon House Farm • Little Horwood • Milton Keynes • MK17 0PS comput Computamation Services Ltd - 9a Lower Way, Great Brickhill, Bucks, MK17 9AG [email protected] • www.harlequin-press.co.uk Established 1999 with over 25 years experience Grapevine is printed by Harlequin Press Ltd.

HUNTER’S GARAGE

Local friendly village automotive garage offering:

● Servicing ● Repairs ● MOTS on site ● Diagnostic and tuning ● Tyres ● Exhausts ● Batteries

We also offer the service to collect and deliver vehicles from Contact details: the Leighton Buzzard area. Unit 3-4, Manor Business Centre High Street South, Stewkley

01525 240696 Courtesy car available by prior arrangement. Page 24 Stewkley Grapevine April 2020 SUCCESSION OF SUPERLATIVES FOR STEWKLEY TOWER from Ailsa Knightley Last month, six members of Stewkley Tower joined 37 other members of the Central Bucks Branch of the Oxford Diocesan Guild of Church Bell Ringers on a coach to Cambridge. The day had been arranged by Maddie Knightley, also a Stewkley ringer and currently studying at St Catharine’s College. Before lunch we rang at two 6‐bell towers – St Edward King and Martyr, where it is said that the first sermon of the English Reformation was given (1525), and the 11th‐Century St Bene't's Church, the oldest church in Cambridgeshire and the oldest building in Cambridge. After lunch at St Catharine’s, we rang firstly at Our Lady of The Assumption and The English Martyrs, a Roman Catholic Church with 8 bells and the tallest spire in Cambridge. These were very heavy to ring but sounded marvellous. We then moved on to St Andrew the Great, also 8 bells, and finished at Great St Mary's, the University Church with 12 bells. Ringing on outings is always a challenge because all bells are slightly different to ring but, as ever, Stewkley ringers were a credit to our Tower. The photo shows the Stewkley ringers outside St Catharine's College, from left to right, Maeve Fox, Maddie Knightley, Cassia Lorrimore, Bob Lorrimore, Simon Head *, Ed Houghton *, Ailsa Knightley, Sherri Woodland and Sally Shefferd. (* not Stewkley residents but regular ringers on our practice nights). We welcome anyone, over the age of 10 and able to climb the spiral staircase to the tower, to join us on a Wednesday evening, 7.30 to 9pm, at St Michael’s Church. We would be happy to teach you. Please note that Bell ringing is cancelled until further notice. STEWKLEY WALKERS - STOCKGROVE WALK Stewkley Walkers’ impressive turnout on walks continued last month as 17 members took part in a four mile walk which started at Stockgrove Country Park. The route of the walk took in the meadow of the country park, ponds and woodlands heading in to Great Brickhill. For the final stages of the walk the party split into two groups with some walkers opting to go across some particularly muddy fields while others went for the drier alternative of the road. The groups met back at Rammamere Heath (where the picture on the right was taken), before a second split, with some going straight back to the Stockgrove Park cafe for lunch while others did an extra loop to help them work up an appetite! Our planned programme for April has been cancelled. Please check future issues of Grapevine for when we are able to resume our regular walks. TAILPIECE TALE YOU WANT TO TRY BEING THIS SIDE OF THE FENCE! NO PARACETAMOL ‐ NO WORRIES Flip Jackson from Meanwhile Nature Watch correspondent, Hilary, has been hunting down cold Sycamore Close remedies for the adults... just in case... and has come up with the following: Warm your cockles with this traditional Scottish HOT TODDY from the has been out and Scotsman. about with his Ingredients: camera again... we • 35ml of blended Scotch whisky • 1 tbsp honey (local of course) are not sure if this • 100 – 200 ml boiling water • Cloves was before self- • 1 lemon • Sugar isolation kicked in or Method: after... and he • Make in a handled glass or mug spotted a mistle • Cut the lemon in half, set a half inch slice aside from one half thrush that seemed • Dust a plate with a thin coat of sugar, wipe the rim of the glass/mug with quite interested in one of the lemon halves to wet it and turn upside down in the sugar to dust what was happening • Pour the whiskey into the glass/mug, then add the honey on Flip’s side of the • Add the boiling water – 150 ml will be about ¾ of the glass/mug fence. • Add a few cloves and the juice from one half of the lemon and stir We understand Flip • Cut the lemon slice in half, adding one half to the glass and using the other as garnish informed the thrush • Optionally – add a stick of cinnamon or some star anise for an extra hit of it is currently better flavour, or ‘pin’ some cloves into the lemon slice off where it is. It is thought that the name hot toddy comes from the Todian Well, an ancient water source in Edinburgh.