BLETCHINGTON VILLAGE NEWS KEEPING YOU INFORMED OF EVENTS AND ORGANISATIONS IN YOUR VILLAGE
ISSUE 236 Oct – Nov 2018
Church News Report from Bletchington Band News from Brownies Sports & Social Club Report Contribution from the School
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B L E T C H I N G T O N
Tel: 01869 350359 Kenwood, e-mail: [email protected] Oxford Road.
From the Editor
The appropriate cover picture on this issue was drawn by the late Bob Beck in 2004. Listed below are the names of young men from the village who, sadly, lost their lives during, or shortly after, the 1914-1918 War. Also, two pages in the centre of this issue are dedicated to the event. In addition there is some very interesting information about the Soldiers of Oxfordshire museum. Thank you to Mrs Donaghey for the article from the school at such short notice. Thank you also for all of the other interesting articles in this issue. Articles for inclusion in the December 2018/January 2019 issue are welcome at any time but by 25th November at the latest please. For your convenience it is now possible to send your articles or adverts to us directly by e-mail. The Bletchington Village News address is [email protected] Greta Bickley, Editor
CHRISTMAS COVER COMPETITION If you would like to win £5 please have a go at designing a cover for the next Issue, ideally with a Christmas theme. The picture needs to fit in the middle of the page (approximately 17.5 x 14.5cms) and should be drawn with a dark lead pencil, so that it will scan. The last date for entries will be 25th November. Please give your picture to Greta, or send it by e-mail.
Harvest Praise: The service will be on Sunday, October 21st at 11 a.m., followed by a Bring and Share lunch in the church (drinks provided). As usual, gifts of produce brought to the church will be taken to Bicester food bank (dried goods or tins – sorry, they are unable to accept fresh fruit or vegetables) and the collection given to a local charity.
All Souls Service: The annual service, when we remember all our family and friends who are no longer with us, will be held on Sunday, November 4th at 11 a.m. All are welcome. Posies will be made by Christine and Sue for those in our registers during the past year, but if you would like to contribute to a floral arrangement in memory of someone (not necessarily from this village) please get in touch with Christine Mercer (Oaklands, Islip Road, Bletchington, Oxon OX5 3DP, tel 01869 350335) – cheques made payable to PCC Bletchington. The upkeep of the churchyards is very expensive and if you would like to remember anyone by helping to keep the churchyards looking so beautiful, Ian Gedling (01869 350491) would be very pleased to hear from you.
Remembrance Sunday: There will be a service of Remembrance beginning at 10.45 a.m. on Sunday, November 11th. Please come along (and bring your children) in this particularly important year, marking the 100th Anniversary of the Armistice. We will remember the men and women who gave their lives for us, especially those from this village. The Last Post will be sounded by Sheldon Barwick and the names of all the men on our two memorials read by John Smith. We are also grateful to Bletchington Silver Band for playing at this special service.
Young Men from Bletchington who, sadly, are recorded as having lost their lives during, or shortly after, the First World War:-
Arthur Stonehill 21/10/14 Joseph Morris 4/11/14 Hon. Arthur Annesley 16/11/14 Henry Collett 26/11/14 Wallace Whyton 14/01/15 George Cooling 09/05/15 Geoffrey Bowlby 13/05/15 Harry Bateman 17/06/16 George Morris 01/07/16 Willie Drinkwater 23/07/16 Ernest David Wilkins 15/09/16 Gordon Bazely 13/10/16 Ronald Wackett 13/11/16 Robert Kerwood 27/04/18 Alfred Randall 12/08/18 Ernest Taylor 10/09/18 George Dearlove 25/10/18 Albert Clanfield 22/12/18 George Bullock 18/02/19 (due to wounds received during the War)
“At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.”
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ST. GILES’ CHURCH NEWS AND SERVICES We are part of the AKEMAN BENEFICE (Bletchington, Kirtlington, Weston-on-the-Green, Chesterton, Middleton Stoney, Wendlebury and Hampton Gay) Rector: The Revd Gareth Miller, The Rectory, Kirtlington, Oxon OX5 3HA (01869 350224) email [email protected] Associate Priest: The Revd. Brian Wood, The Rectory, Alchester Road, Chesterton, Oxon OX 26 1UW (01869 369815) email [email protected] Churchwarden: Judith Ledger Assistant Churchwarden: Fiona Teddy Secretary: Patricia Hampson Treasurer: Ian Gedling Members of the PCC: Greta Bickley. Natasha Pitts
Services in St. Giles’ Church (unless otherwise stated) in October and November. (Please check the times as there are several changes to the usual pattern) October 2018 # Book of Common Prayer *Baptism @ Harvest % All Souls’ Service
Sunday 7 October Trinity 19 Sunday 14 October Trinity 20 Chesterton 0800 Holy Communion # Wendlebury 0915 Holy Communion Bletchingdon 0800 Holy Communion # Bletchingdon 1100 Holy Communion Kirtlington 0915 Holy Communion Chesterton 1100 Young Families@ Chesterton 1100 Holy Communion Middleton St 1100 Morning Worship Weston o/t G 1100 Family Service @* Hampton Gay 1515 Evening Prayer @ # Kirtlington 1600 Family Service @ * Sunday 21 October Trinity 21 Sunday 28 October SS Simon and Jude Kirtlington 0800 Holy Communion # Middleton St 0915 Holy Communion Weston o/t G 1030 UB Holy Communion Wendlebury 0915 Morning Worship Kirtlington 1800 All Souls % Bletchingdon 1100 Family Service Chesterton 1800 All Souls % Harvest Praise Chesterton 1100 Café Church in Community Centre Weston o/t G 1100 Holy Communion Kirtlington 1800 Evening Prayer #
Thursday Communions at Kirtlington at 0930: 4th, 11th,18th, 25th October
November 2018 # Book of Common Prayer % All Souls’ Service
Thursday 1 November All Saints’ Day Sunday 11 November Remembrance Middleton Stoney1900 Sung Eucharist (Patronal) Middleton St 0915 Remembrance with Holy Communion Sunday 4 November 4th before Advent Bletchingdon 1045 Remembrance Chesterton 0800 Holy Communion # Kirtlington 1045 Remembrance Bletchingdon 1100 All Souls Service Weston o/t G 1045 Remembrance Chesterton 1100 Young Families Wendlebury 1045 Remembrance Kirtlington 1600 Family Service (with Chesterton) Weston o/t G 1800 All Souls % Wendlebury 1800 All Souls % Sunday 18 November 2nd Sunday before Advent Sunday 25 November Christ the King Kirtlington 0800 Holy Communion # Middleton St 0915 Holy Communion Wendlebury 0915 Morning Worship Bletchingdon 1030 United Benefice Bletchingdon 1000 Family Service Holy Communion Chesterton 1100 Chesterton Praise Weston o/t G 1100 Holy Communion Kirtlington 1800 Evening Prayer #
Thursday Communions at Kirtlington at 0930: 1st,8th,15th, 22nd and 29th November.
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Our services are for any age and everyone is welcome, but children may find that the Family (All Age) Service, usually on the third Sunday, is easier to understand. These family services are great fun – why not come along and see for yourselves! For details of services in the other parishes in the Benefice please see the notices on the Church and Parish Council notice boards. Times of the services are also on the internet on the village website www.bletchingdon- pc.org.uk or the Benefice website www.akemanbenefice.org.uk If you have difficulty getting to church and would like a lift, please get in touch on 350491. From the Registers:
Marriage: August 4th Hannah Louise Gold and Michael Thomas Norman We send best wishes to Hannah and Michael for their future together.
Morning Prayer: A group is meeting in the cafe area in the village hall each Tuesday at 8.45am. It is just for 15 minutes, so do come along if you can. Pastoral Care: If you would like to be visited by a member of the Church or a Priest, or if you would like to request a visit on behalf of a friend or neighbour, please contact Gareth or Brian (addresses above).
St Birinus Award: We are very pleased to hear that Greta Bickley is to be admitted to the fellowship of St. Birinus which is given by the Bishop of Dorchester in recognition of long and dedicated service to the church and parish. Warm congratulations to Greta - we hope to present the certificate at the Harvest Service on 21 October. Greta has lived Bletchingdon for much of her adult life. During that time she has become an essential and vital part of the village, known for her involvement with all aspects of community life. She has raised six children, all of whom attended the Parochial School. She continued this link with the school by serving as a Governor, a member of the School Association, and in many other ways. Greta has always been a staunch supporter of St. Giles’s Church. She started a Sunday School in 1973 and ran it mostly single-handedly for over twenty years. She has been a member of the Parochial Church Council (with a short break) for over forty years, has always helped at church events and still continues as a sidesperson. Greta was Clerk to the Parish Council for more than thirty-five years and took the major role in organising many important village events, such as the Queen’s Silver Jubilee and the Millennium celebrations. She has also co-written a book on the history of the village. One of the biggest contributions Greta has made to the village has been through her work as editor of the Village News which is published six times a year. This was started as a church initiative in 1979 and now the 236th issue has been reached. She has been editor from the start - she cajoles, collects and collates the information, and the magazine is one of the things that makes Bletchington a community rather than a collection of houses.
The award is also to be presented, post-humously, to Tony Bagnall Smith, who sadly died before he was able to receive it. His work for the restoration of the church was reported in the June issue of the Village News after his Thanksgiving Service. His family will be receiving it on his behalf.
St.Giles' Day Walk: 2nd September 2018. On a perfect late summer morning a group of walkers set of from Wendlebury and reached Weston for a much-appreciated coffee. They followed the path across the fields to Bletchingdon and as they approached the church they were surprised by the sound of bells. The ringers of Bletchingdon and Kirtlington rang a welcome in honour of St. Giles and the walkers. After a brief service everyone shared a picnic in the churchyard before continuing through the village to Hampton Gay for Evensong. Not everyone walked the whole way, some joined en route, but everyone enjoyed the day. Our thanks go to Gareth and Brian and to those who provided the refreshments. Join us next year! Judith Ledger
BENEFICE THINKING DAY Members of the Parochial Church Councils will be spending the day together on 20 October at Bruern Abbey School to think and pray about future patterns of mission and ministry.
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ALL SAINTS’ DAY THURSDAY 1 NOVEMBER This is a major feast in the church’s year and the Patronal Festival for All Saints’, Middleton Stoney. A special SUNG EUCHARIST (with choir) will be held at Middleton Stoney Church at 7pm. This will also be the launch occasion for our restoration campaign. Preacher: The Rev’d Charles Chadwick Wine and nice nibbles afterwards. All welcome! ******************************* WAITING FOR GOD "Awakening the Advent Word: prayerfully pondering the poetry of the scriptures of the Advent season." A pre-Advent QUIET DAY Saturday 17 November 1030-1430 in Kirtlington Church A time of stillness and reflection in preparation for Advent and Christmas led by Father John Farrell OP from Blackfriars, Oxford. Drinks provided. Please bring your own lunch. ************************************** Second Sunday A young people’s group meets on the Second Sunday in the month from 1630-1830, normally in Weston. We sometimes think about contemporary issues, sometimes about faith, and sometimes go bowling or have food! If you are of secondary school age you are very welcome. Further details from Gareth (350224) or Mandy (351771)
Letter from The Rector
Dear friends A friend lent me a book which I would probably not have chosen for myself – a biography of the late Princess Margaret. Among other things I was surprised to learn that as a young woman the Queen ‘suffered’ from what today we would probably term OCD – Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, in her case the need to tidy meticulously with unnatural frequency. Some of us will perhaps recognise that tendency in ourselves – or not! The need to have things neat and tidy is often a defence against perceived chaos, either in our internal life or in the wider world. But the need for rituals, as a recent television series has shown, has been a part of the human psyche since the dawn of time. Most organised religions are highly ritualistic. The very word religion, although its roots are obscure, is widely thought to derive from the Latin re-ligare, “to join together, or reconnect,” signifying the fundamental human need to feel part of something bigger and deeper and reflected in the cycle of symbolic celebrations. The autumn period provides many such opportunities for reconnection. After the relatively fallow season of ‘Sundays after Trinity’ or Ordinary Time, a rich feast of commemorations awaits us. Harvest – a chance to affirm our connection with the land (though I rather think the harvest has come much earlier this year than our autumnal celebrations recognise!), and then the season of All Saints, All Souls and Remembrance. For regular churchgoers there is the cycle of Sundays and Saints’ Days. Those who attend occasionally tend to gravitate to Christmas, Easter, Harvest and perhaps Remembrancetide. Even those without explicit faith tend to feel the need to find way of connecting to traditional patterns. We still have the joy of welcoming many families into church through baptism or thanksgiving. Whoever you are, regular or irregular, old or young, of strong faith or of little or none, our village churches strive to be places where you will feel welcome and accepted. Our congregations are not composed of perfect people, but of people who are seeking a deeper meaning and purpose for their lives. We hope that you might join us in that quest. Gareth
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THURSDAY CLUB
For our September meeting we held a quiz with tea and raffle.
In October we are having a Special Harvest Lunch with entertainment by Jacqueline Faye who has recently appeared on X Factor. All over 50’s are welcome to join us on Thursday October 4th at 1 o’clock in the Village Hall.
Our usual meetings are on the 1st Thursday of the month in the Village Hall at 2p.m. New members are always welcome.
BLETCHINGTON SILVER BAND
The Band has now completed its Summer season so this means Sheldon will soon be searching through the library for Christmas music. Our last fete of the summer was our usual engagement at Dinton Village. After the long hot summer we had high hopes for a beautiful day but unfortunately it turned out to be the wettest day of the year and we got drenched. Luckily a few of us found a local pub where we managed to dry off and warm up! On Saturday 8th September the Band were invited to play in Woodstock outside St. Marys Church to entertain members of the public and guests as they arrived for the wedding of the Marquis of Blandford and his bride to be, Camilla Thorp. It was a joyous occasion with the town centre full of local well wishers cheering and flag waving. On Sunday 16th September the 3rd Annual BSB Brass Festival was held in the village Hall. The festival is an opportunity for players to compete against each other in various categories and is a great way to improve playing, and to show off skills. This year’s adjudicator was Di Scott who is a Championship flugel horn player with Kidlington Concert Brass. The winners were:
Improvers Solo – Anashe Intermediate Solo – Ed Advanced Solo – Olivier Improvers duet – Sofia and Megan Improvers ensemble – Isla, Martha and Anashe Advanced ensemble – Olivier, Jane, Della and Ed. Well done to all who took part!
On Saturday 22nd September the Band’s Autumn Concert was held in the Village Hall. The first half of the Concert was to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the ending of World War 1 and featured audio and visual items , which together with the choice of music, which included traditional Marches of the time and the beautiful ‘In Flanders fields’ by Gavin Somerset, made for an atmospheric and moving experience. The B Band played four pieces including the Dads Army theme and Hey Jude which demonstrated how they can play more difficult music with great confidence. The third section of the evening was an eclectic mix of music including Classic rock, a Tudor Pavane and a TV sitcom theme, demonstrating the versatility of a Brass Band. Thank you to everyone who attended our Concert. It is always lovely to see so many old friends and new faces.
Dates for Diary
Remembrance service at the Church 11th November Carols around the village 2nd December
Christmas Concert 8th December - This will be held in the Village Hall at 7.30p.m. and will include the usual mix of Christmas music and other concert favourites. We would be delighted to see you there!
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Bletchingdon Parochial CE (VA) Primary School
Dear Villagers
I have now been the Headteacher of Bletchingdon Primary School for nearly a month. During that time I have been made to feel very welcome by parents and children and the wider community and I feel so privileged to be at Bletchingdon School
We are so fortunate to have such a wonderful building and beautiful outdoor space into which we have all settled back in after the summer holiday.
Already I’ve seen some amazing work going on in classes. Owl Class have created the most amazing dragon eggs and used tension and suspense in their writing… Woodpecker Class have learnt the parts of a mediaeval castle as part of their work on fairy tales and Robins have been on a LION HUNT! Kingfisher Class are now all Stone Age Experts having created cave paintings and written historically accurate stories.
We now have a twitter account to keep everyone up to date. To follow us either go to twitter.com and search @bletchprimary or go to the school homepage bletchingdon.oxon.sch.uk/Home where you will find our latest tweets.
On Tuesday 9th October we are holding an open day for prospective parents. There will be tours at 10 am and 1.30pm. Please pass on this information to anyone you Meet the Stone Age boy in think might be interested in a place at our school. Kingfisher Class.
Future issues we will include work by the children in the meantime we have lots of ambitious pupils. Featured on our growing up tree are children wanting to be zoo keepers, boat builders, doctors, teachers, vets, acrobats, football managers and much more. Watch this space!
Best wishes
Karen Donaghey and everyone at Bletchingdon Primary School
Bletchingdon CE (VA) Primary School Nursery
(Whitemarsh Way, Bletchingdon, Oxon, OX5 3FD) Tel: 01869 350393 e-mail: [email protected]
Headteacher: Mrs Karen Donaghey
We admit children into our Nursery Class at three points during the school year. Your child is eligible for government funding from the term after their third birthday.
Admission into a nursery class is not a statutory process, as it is with a Reception class, so arrangements are made directly with the school. Completing an application form will let us know that you would like your child to be added to our list. Around three months before your child is due to join us, we will contact you concerning the number of hours you would like your child to attend, invite you to come along for a visit and ask you to complete an admissions form with contact and medical details on. We will also have regular open days which you are welcome to attend.
Our Nursery Application Form can be found on our website under ‘Parents’. Alternatively call us or pop in to see Jackie in the office.
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THE BLETCHINGTON CHARITY
The purpose of the Charity is to help persons resident in our parish who are in need, hardship or distress. The Charity may make grants of money, or provide or pay for items, services or facilities intended to help people of all ages. The type of grants available are as follows:- Fuel allowances during the cold weather. Assistance with travel expenses to hospital, clinics, etc, for individuals or their relatives. Assistance with disability aids. Student grants (to assist with the cost of travel expenses, books, etc.) Education supplies for children, or support for adults who are retraining. TV licenses for those who may be isolated in their homes.
If you wish to apply for a grant please write to the Charity Secretary – Mrs Heather Smith, at 15, St Giles, (01869 350417) explaining the reason for your application. The Charity may request additional information, but assures all applicants that the information will remain confidential. The Committee members administering the Charity for the BFC are:- Howard Dellar (Chair), Julie Fenn, Sue Green (Treasurer), Sue Lane, Greta Bickley, Andrea Lambert, Sue Macready and Heather Smith (Secretary) We are sorry to report that Ian Gedling has resigned as a Trustee. He attended his first meeting in 2003! Thank you Ian for your commitment to the Charity for 15 years!
GIRLGUIDING 1ST BLETCHINGTON BROWNIES
Term has restarted with new brownies taking our numbers up to 14. We said goodbye to Isla who has moved up to Guides and Jennifer and Sam. New sixes are being put together with new Sixers and Seconders. Lots of Brownies have been working hard over the summer on badges and a special challenge that Wombat set and we're looking forward to sharing what they have done. Girlguidings new exciting programme with brand new themes, badges and awards will be launched in October and everyone is looking forward to that. We are busy making capes for Woodstock Districts Superhero stroll in October around the grounds of Blenheim Palace. We'll be practising for our Brownies and Brass learning Christmas carols to play at the district event in December.
2nd Woodstock Guides annual Christmas Prize Bingo will be in the village hall on Nov 10th - look out for the posters coming soon!
We'd love more of you to come along and join us at Brownies here or Rainbows and Guides in Woodstock. To find out more email me at [email protected] or register at www.girlguiding.org.uk/joinus
with messy craft, games, MEAL, story, songs & chat Sunday November 25th 4 – 5.30pm in Kirtlington Church
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FIFTY YEARS AGO
Extracts from the Minutes of a Parish Council meeting, chaired by Mr A Eeley, held on 4th October, 1968:- Grass Cutting - It was agreed that arrangements should be made for the grass verges to be cut during 1969, subject to the approval of the Annual Parish Meeting. Water Supply: - Concern was expressed at the unsatisfactory reply from the Oxfordshire and District Water Board regarding the retention of the local bore. Resolved – that a further letter be written asking for confirmation that this parish be supplied with water from the local borehole. Street Lighting: - The Chairman reported that he had arranged with the S.E.B. for the street lights to be switched on earlier than usual and the Parish Council endorsed this action. The Chairman also said that new switches were being fitted to enable the lights to be switched on during the morning period of darkness. Bus Shelter: The chairman said that he had spoken to Mr Rolphe, and he would do something about the roof as soon as possible. Village Hall: A letter received from the Village Hall Committee stated that the extensions were progressing rapidly. It was resolved to take up the Ministry of Housing and Local Govt. loan. Bletchingdon Almshouse Charity: The Clerk produced a draft copy of the new scheme for the Bletchingdon Charity for the Parish Council’s comments. No objections were raised to the sale of the almshouses and a portion of land, and the Parish Council were in general agreement with the aims of the scheme. Footpaths: The Chairman read a letter from Mr Ellison concerning the diversion of a footpath which passed through the courtleage of the new house being built at Manor Farm. The Parish Council had no objections regarding this diversion. Insurance: Resolved - to pay an additional premium of £2.1.6d to cover the increased insurable value of £2000 for the sports pavilion and £120 for the store building. Accounts for Payment: The following accounts were passed for payment:- S. E. B. – Supply and maintenance £12-19-4d. Public Works Loan Board – Repayment of loan £5.0.0. O.A.P.C (Oxfordshire Association of Parish Councils) 7s-6d Canal Bridge: - Resolved that letters be written to O.C.C. and Kirtlington Parish Council, concerning the urgent need for the new bridge in view of the frequent accidents occurring at this point. Speed Limit: Resolved that a letter be written to the Ministry of Transport asking for a speed limit to be imposed on the B4095 from the foot of Islip Road hill to The Sands cowshed. (NB – No further meetings were held until February 1969. )
The Oxfordshire Performers Club
A Performers Club has recently been set up for adult amateur musicians who are seeking opportunities to perform in a friendly and supportive environment. The Oxfordshire Performers Club, which meets at various Oxfordshire locations every 6 weeks or so, is for players and singers, at any level and with any instrument, who want to gain experience and confidence at performing, without the pressures of a formal concert. Players perform to each other, friends and family, and can perform all or just part of a piece. The Club welcomes learners who can try out their pieces at the Club before their examination. We also welcome experienced players who simply lack sufficient opportunities to perform. Some very experienced players try out pieces at the Club first, before performing them at a formal concert. Come and join us, either as a performer or a listener. Our next concert dates are at 3pm on September 9th, October 21st and there will also be a date in November. More information, including about the venue, can be found on the website and the Facebook page, or email [email protected]. Website: www.oxfordshireperformersclub.co.uk. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oxfordshireperformersclub/
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Flu Vaccination Announcement Islip Medical Practice is very keen to provide the seasonal flu vaccine to anyone who is eligible. If you satisfy any of the following criteria then the Surgery would like to encourage you to make an appointment as soon as possible. Aged over 65, Aged under 65 in a clinical risk group , Carers, Healthcare workers For your convenience, Flu clinics are to be held on Saturday 15th September and Saturday 3rd November from 9.30 until 12.00. There are also other week day dates available in October should these not be convenient. Please telephone the Surgery as soon as possible to make your appointment. Appointments for flu vaccinations are not available via the on-line appointment service. If you are eligible but do not wish to be vaccinated then please let the Surgery know. This will help by saving valuable time in issuing reminders
Bletchingdon Primary School PTA Latest News
THANKYOU! The Parent Teacher Association at Bletchingdon Primary School has had an exceptional year fundraising for the school and has raised a total of £5,395 over the last year.
We would like to thank you for coming along to our events, including the annual Quiz and Pamper evening as well as taking part in our raffle prize draws.
Many thanks also to all residents who came out and supported the Spring Fair on 12th May, this was a fantastic event boosted by the Royal wedding and raised an amazing profit of £2,008. We were delighted with the turnout and hope many of you will join us again for the 2019 fair.
We try and put on events to encourage the whole community to come together and are delighted when we see lots of local faces.
TESCO BAGS OF HELP We have been raising money to create a sensory garden in the school grounds which should begin development this school year with the assistance of the builders of the Duchy Field development - Zero C/Places for People and architects Coleman Hicks.
This project is currently one of three projects to vote for in the Tesco Bags of Help scheme in the Kidlington Tesco store - please support us by putting the blue token you receive at the till in our collection box after the tills. The winner will receive £4,000, second £2,000 and third £1,000 so it will really make a difference to our fundraising total.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
24th November 2018, 7pm - Pamper night at Bletchingdon Village Hall – (see advert)
TBC December 2018, 3-4pm - Christmas Fair & Raffle at Bletchingdon Village Hall. Further information to follow.
New Year 2019 - Quiz - for regular quizzers, please don’t worry this event has not been forgotten and will take place in the new year
Any comments, suggestions or offers of help for this years events are greatly appreciated, please contact Kelly Whitehead (PTA Chair) on [email protected] / 07961 740531
Many thanks again for all your support, we’re looking forward to seeing you at some fantastic events throughout the next year.
Best wishes Bletchingdon PTA
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BLETCHINGTON SPORTS AND SOCIAL CLUB Club Membership is due for renewal at the end of April. Renewal forms will be distributed in due course. If you would like to join the Club the please contact the Membership Secretary: Roger Hayward on 01869 350209. New members are always welcome. We are a family orientated Club that offers a friendly atmosphere and a chance to meet new friends. We have Sky Sports, darts, Pool, Bar Billiards, football and cricket teams (youth and adult). Drinks are cheap. Membership is also cheap, £8 for an individual annual social membership or £12 for an annual family membership and £5 for senior citizens or under 18 years of age. Come and have a look for yourselves. . Bar Billiards - The summer season has now finished.
Darts - The summer season has now finished.
Quiz League - The Quiz team have reached the end of the summer season finishing second in their division. They won the blockbuster league and world cup football quiz. Overall a good season.
Football - Football has now started with both teams making an average start in divisions one and three of the Witney League. Training has started on a Tuesday evening at the Sports Ground. New players welcome.
Cricket - The first eleven finished midway in section 3 of the Cherwell league. The second eleven finished second from bottom in section 7 and the 3rd eleven were rock bottom in section 9. See the Cricket Club website for full details.
Aunt Sally - The men finished third in section 7 of the Oxford and District League.
Forthcoming Events Bingo on October 13th and December 15th 8th December: The Inflatables Tickets available soon
Thanks to all who supported the Beer Festival. Despite the rain on Saturday afternoon the event was still a success.
The Club would be grateful if ballgames were not played against the buildings as windows, guttering and drain pipes have been damaged.
The Club would appreciate if cars did not park in the lay-by opposite the Club’s gates as lorries have difficulty getting into the Club when cars are parked there.
PLEASE DO NOT EXERCISE YOUR DOG IN THE SPORTS GROUND
All details of the Clubs activities and links to the Sports Leagues can be found on the site. www.bletchingtonsportsandsocialclub.com
Bar Opening Hours Friday 7.45pm to 11.00pm Saturday 7.45pm to 11.00pm Sunday 7.45pm to 10.30pm Wednesday 8.00pm to 11.00pm Tuesday and Thursday 8.00pm to 11.00pm depending on home fixtures of bar billiards and darts (see behind bar for weekly details)
Weston Walkers
Weston Walkers actually managed to get two walks in since the last edition of the Village News, in August Kathy & Ian led us on a circular route from Bletchingdon, taking in a section of canal towpath and, with kind permission of the owners, coming back through Green Hill Farm camp site.
Our September walk was led by myself, starting from Yarnton Church across to Yarnton Lane, along the canal and back under the railway line and across the fields to our starting point, about four and a quarter miles.
October walk will be on Monday 8th October, meeting at the Village Hall at 1.30 pm.
November 12th will be our last walk of the year, so will be a morning walk followed by a pub lunch.
All are welcome to join in as and when, always the second Monday of the month, there is no commitment to every month, so if you wish to enjoy sociable company, conversation and exercise please come along and join in or speak to me. Graham Barnett
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It’s time to say
‘Thank You’
As a Nation Remembers
The 11th November 2018 marks 100 years since the end of the First World War. Bletchington Village Hall plans to commemorate the First World War Centenary and is making special arrangements for a village commemorative event. THE EVENT INCLUDES: A short Commemorative Ceremony with the unveiling of Commemorative Stone Planting of a tree Vintage Tea Party with ‘sing a long’ entertainment (please feel free to dress in vintage clothes) A light in the darkness for those that fell (lighting of a lantern) Memorabilia Exhibits What we would also like to include is a photograph collection of Bletchington residents who have served in the Armed Forces, both past and present. If you have a photograph to submit, we would be very grateful if you could also supply a brief history of the person in the photograph.
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Bletchington Village Hall Commemorative Ceremony
th SUNDAY 11 NOVEMBER 2018 AT BLETCHINGTON VILLAGE HALL 3pm to 6pm TICKETS £3.50 Each Vintage Tea Party Includes: A round of sandwiches Selection of homemade cakes Tea & Coffee Entertainment TICKETS WILL BE ON SALE FROM WEDNESDAY 17th OCTOBER
AT EITHER: Wednesday Café OR Julie & Nick - 4 Springwell Close, Bletchington. (351489)
Can deliver tickets locally. If you would like to come but are unable to walk to the village hall. We are able to offer a limited transport service but by prior arrangement only.
ALL PROCEEDS TO BRITISH LEGION POPPY APPEAL
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WESTON ON THE GREEN WI
In August nineteen members and friends visited the Manor at Upper Slaughter. This is an impressive manor house set in the beautiful Cotswold village of Upper Slaughter. The main structure of the house was built in the 16th century and has been added to over the centuries. The present owners have continued with the conservation of the Grade 1 listed property and the gardens. The house has an eclectic mix of furnishings, art and some lovely embroideries. The house is a member of the Historic Houses Association and is only open a few days a year but is well worth a visit. LB The speaker for our September talk was, due to illness, unable to attend the meeting. We were very fortunate that our very own Robin Stafford-Allen stepped in at the last moment. His talk was on the subject of “Sustainable Energy – Without The Hot Air”, a book by Professor David MacKay. Robin addressed the sustainable energy crisis in an objective manner, reminding us that it is not all doom and gloom but the world needs to act now to prevent this impending crisis. Can we rely on renewable energy as we know it today, with the world population increasing by 8 million a week? The answer has to be no. We can all do our small bit by consuming energy more efficiently but this will never be enough to solve the problem. The answer to this global energy crisis is out there, and one day someone will have that “Eureka” moment. We would like to thank Robin for a very interesting and thought provoking talk and for reminding us that we do need to be more efficient in our every day lives. SAS The WI in Weston meets every third Wednesday in the month at 7-30pm in the Village Hall. All ladies are welcome to join us. Not only do we have excellent speakers at every meeting, but we also have various other activities going on. Our October speaker will be Ann Sharman on the subject, “I Went to a Wedding in Delhi” and a taste of India.
ARE YOU A NANNY, OR A FAMILY INTERESTED IN A NANNY SHARE?
Local mum looking for a flexible, part-time nanny (or childminder) to work potentially unpredictable hours (including some evenings and weekends).
Also looking for a family interested in a nanny share.
Please contact Jane at Lower Heyford on 01869 349703
Harmony InSpires, award-winning a capella ladies’ chorus, is celebrating its 10th anniversary with an afternoon of music and entertainment on 13th October. As well as Harmon InSpires, there will be guest musicians from St Helen and St Katharine School, songs from Crescendo and an audience with Paul Mayhew- Archer, who has just returned from his successful appearance at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. The MC for the show will be former mayor of Abingdon, Duncan Bhaskaran Brown, The Civic Coach. Tickets are on sale through the website, www.harmonyinspires.org, emailing [email protected] or call 07557 519481. Adults £10, Under 18s £5, Family (2 adults 2 children) £25. There will be refreshments and a raffle.
The show is in the theatre at St Helen and St Katharine School, Abingdon, doors open at 2.30pm and the show starts at 3pm and will finish at 5pm. http://www.harmonyinspires.org/ Facebook/ WWW.HARMONYINSPIRES.ORG
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1066: A Medieval Mosaic Exhibition
1066: A Medieval Mosaic is a Guinness World Record-winning exhibition which has toured a number of locations in the UK before arriving at Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum (SOFO Museum), Woodstock.
The mosaic took its creator Michael A. Linton 33 years to complete after he started work on the piece in 1979. Made from 33 million individual pieces of spring steel, the mosaic now measures 64 metres long and weighs 350kg. This earned 1066: A Medieval Mosaic the title of the world’s largest steel mosaic and a place in the Guinness Book of World Records.
The mosaic re-creates the entirety of the original Bayeux Tapestry, including the depiction of the Battle of Hastings, but also expands on it with additional historic scenes. In 2005 Michael added an 8 metre 'Finale Section' which depicts events leading up to the crowning of William the Conqueror on Christmas Day 1066.
In 2012, a further 22 metre section was added to cover the Battle of Fulford and the Battle of Stamford Bridge. These added scenes bring this rec-creation close to twice the length of the real Bayeux Tapestry.
To coincide with arrival of the mosaic, SOFO Museum will also hold a mini-exhibition of objects that tell the story of WW2 as the Bayeux tapestry does for the Norman Conquest. Visitors will be able to see these objects on display until February 2019.
1066: A Medieval Mosaic will be on display from 5th September 2018 to 1st February 2019, throughout the museum’s regular opening hours and is included in the admission price.
While SOFO Museum typically charges an admission fee, it will also celebrate Heritage Open Days this year by opening its doors free of charge on Thursday 6th and Thursday 13th September 2018. Visitors to these Open Days can see not only the Bayeux Tapestry mosaic, but also all of the museum’s permanent exhibits.
SOFO Museum is open Tuesday – Friday 10am to 5pm, Saturdays 11am to 5pm, and Sundays 2pm to 5pm. Changes to regular opening times are always added to the museum website.
In addition to the exhibition of the mosaic itself, Michael Linton will also give a talk about his work on the piece and the history that surrounds the events depicted within it. The talk will take place at SOFO Museum on 12th September 2018, with tickets available now through the museum website.
About the Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum: The Soldiers of Oxfordshire Trust (SOFO) museum opened during the summer of 2014 and was officially opened by the Princess Royal.
Sitting in the grounds of the Oxfordshire Museum, the site now offers two fascinating museums for visitors of all ages to explore and engage with.
SOFO uses the material of the two county regiments, the Queens Own Oxfordshire Hussars (QOOH) and the Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry, to act as a starting point for reflecting on the county’s rich and diverse military heritage. These collections contain over 3,500 objects and 7,500 archive items. The regimental collections date back to the late 18th Century and reflect the local regiments’ involvement in major conflicts such as the War of American Independence, the Peninsula War, the Boer Wars, the Great War and World War II, together with less well known events such as the New Zealand war of 1864 and the Brunei emergency in the 1960s. They comprise weapons, equipment, clothing, flags, musical instruments and regimental silver as well as extensive personal memories, diaries, letters and photographs.
The breadth of the collections has allowed us to present and contribute to a wide range of historical themes and mark key anniversaries, for example the 2015 bicentenary of Waterloo and centenary of the Great War.
About Michael A. Linton
Michael Linton was a textile technician by trade and between 1985 and 2016 was in business with his wife Gillian as a knitwear manufacturer and retailer. In 1999 Michael and Gillian were recognised by the Guinness Book of Records as having the “World’s Largest Jersey” and in 2012 received the Guinness World Record for the “World’s Largest Steel Mosaic.”
With the help of their son Steven, Michael has produced two puzzle books and has a keen interest in all aspects of number theory. Hidden throughout the mosaic are many of Michael’s alphametic puzzles.
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Bletchingdon PARISH COUNCIL Councillors: Mr A K Saunders (Chairman) 14, Coghill Tel: 350705 Mr C E Lane (Vice-Chairman) Village Farm Tel: 350257 Mrs M M Knight 18, Valentia Close Tel: 350162 Mr M E Taylor Stoneacre, Oxford Road Tel: 350609 Mr D M Ledger 3, Islip Road Tel: 351542 Mr A Jordan The Malt House, Weston Road Tel: 226500 Ms R Pirie 12 Valentia Close Tel: 350856
Clerk: Rebecca McNaught Email: [email protected] Tel: 351967 Website: www.bletchingdon-pc.org.uk Agendas and minutes of meetings can be viewed on the Parish Council website
The Clerk works on a flexible basis, however the Parish Office will be open every Monday (except bank & school holidays) from 9am – 3pm, if you have any concerns, ideas or would just like to pop in for a chat. At any other times please leave an answerphone message and she will get back to you, or use email for a quicker response.
District Councillors: Simon Holland ([email protected]) David Hughes ([email protected]) County Councillor: Carmen Griffiths ([email protected])
Meetings: Normally held on the last Thursday of the Month, unless otherwise advertised. Notice of meetings are always displayed on the Parish Council Notice Board, which is on the Bus Shelter wall facing the Green. The Meetings are held at the Village Hall. Members of the Public are welcome at Meetings, but must seek prior permission if they wish to join in the discussion of any matter.
The next meeting will take place on 1st November, followed by a meeting on 29th November.
Planning Matters
The following applications were put before Bletchingdon Parish Council on 30th August;
18/01248/F – Catisfaction, Heathfield – alteration and conversion of cattery building to form a single detatched dwelling house – P.C. concerned about change of use in a leisure/ commercial use area 18/00203/TCA – Bletchingdon Park Estate – various tree works including felling, transplanting and pruning across whole estate – P.C. fully approve
The following applications were put before Bletchingdon Parish Council on 27th September;
18/01499/LB – Michaelmas Cottage, Islip Road – replacement of rear window with French windows and insertion of roof lights – this was due back to District Council before the meeting but planning committee all agreed to comment of ‘no objection’. 18/00244/TCA – Hill View, Church End – T1 x Birch, T2 x Leland cypress, T3 & T5 x Prunus spp, T4 x Birch – fell to allow for a new planting scheme (not circulated to planning committee) PC had no objection.
Notices of Decisions made by Cherwell District Council in August & September were;
18/00857/F – Hill View, Church End – French doors – permitted 18/7/18 18/00156/TCA – Park House, Church End - apple tree fell – notice of intent – no further objections from CDC 23/7/18 18/00203/TCA – Bletchingdon Park House – Works to trees in conservation area – permitted 6/9/18
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Adverts N.B. If you contact any of our advertisers would you please mention that you saw their advert in Bletchington Village News
Your advert could be here for only
£15.00
Per Year (6 issues per year)
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Bletchingdon Village Hall for hire
Facilities include –
Café area, Sprung wooden floor Meeting rooms/ areas Options for the whole/part of the hall space. High quality audio and projector facilities Use of a commercial kitchen* Outside spaces
* Commercial kitchen – available to professional caterers only
CHARGE RATES Valid until December 31 2017
Community -residents of Bletchingdon & Hampton Poyle for personal or fundraising events. Commercial - non-residents or residents running events for personal gain. Halls: Weekdays. Whole hall Large Hall Small Hall Community £12 per hour £10 per hour £10 per hour Commercial –block booking £17.50 / hour £15 per hour £15 per hour Commercial – single booking £24 per hour £20 per hour £20 per hour
Halls: Weekends are booked by session. Morning: 9am to 12 noon, Afternoon: 1pm to 4pm, Evening: 5pm to end.
Whole hall Large Hall Small Hall Community AM/PM £36 £30 Please enquire. Evening £60 £50 Commercial AM/PM £65 £60 Please enquire. Evening £130 £120
All bookings require £100 deposit for a single session. A deposit is not required for block bookings Other rooms and packages available at www.bletchingdon-pc.org Wedding packages also available at very reasonable rates Contact Duncan 351542 or [email protected]
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Local & Reliable, Home & Garden Improvements/Maintenance. Painting & Decorating, Tiling, Flat Pack Assembly, Landscaping, Fencing, Patios, Jet Washing, Decking, Hedge Cutting, Pruning and Much Much More………….. Domestic and commercial, one off jobs and regular maintenance programmes to suit your needs. Fully Insured - No job is too small. Please call Noel Price on 07884185171 or 01869 351619 [email protected] www.kirtlingtonpropertymaintenance.com
For Domestic Cleaning please call Jayne Price on 07795055202
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DEREK BICKLEY GENERAL BUILDER
Extension, Alterations, Paving etc
All types of building work considered
Telephone: 01869 351532 Mobile no: 07817496502
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