West Ashton Magazine

Photo Jean Robertson In This Issue...

Floods Paul With Link

Rubbish Just The Job Evelyn’s 90th And Much More….

Our community magazine keeping you up to date in West Ashton, Rood Ashton, East Town, and Dunge.

1 Spring 2020 Iss:65

The West Ashton Magazine is published quarterly by the West Ashton Parish Council. WAPC has devolved full authority for the magazine to an independent volunteer Editorial Group formed for the sole purpose of producing this magazine. The intention is to inform and entertain the residents of West Ashton. The magazine is distributed free of charge to all residents of West Ashton village. The Editors warmly invite you to submit reports, articles and photographs relating to past or future village issues and events, or any subject that may be of interest to the readership. The editors reserve the right to edit any submissions and make corrections, omit material or do minor reorganisation to any submitted work and reserve the right to reject any submissions. We prefer typed or electronic material. Photos will be returned on request. All material published in The West Ashton Magazine, including adverts, editorials, articles and all other content is published in good faith. The West Ashton Magazine accepts no liability for any errors or omissions and does not endorse any companies, products or services that appear in the publication. All material is accepted on the understanding that it is copyright free. The West Ashton Magazine accepts no liability for any subsequent copyright issues. The West Ashton Magazine cannot accept responsibility for and does not endorse views expressed by contributors. We want the content of the magazine to be primarily editorial, but we will include small advertisements for local businesses based in West Ashton. The West Ashton Magazine does not accept responsibility for the accuracy of claims made by advertisers. No part of the magazine may be reproduced without the prior written consent of The West Ashton Magazine, Editor: Jo Watkins - 01225 753196 :[email protected] Producer: Tim Le Mare - [email protected] Front page photo Jean Robertson, primroses in the churchyard All contributions welcomed. Please send them, in the first instance, to Jo Watkins.

PRINTING OF THE MAGAZINE IS SPONSORED BY BRIKEN MOTORS Servicing and Repairs of all types and makes of vehicles. MOTs/Pre-checks, diagnostics & electrical, clutch & gearbox specialists Air-con; batteries & exhausts.

Tel: 01225 755203 – www.brikenmotors.co.uk

Editorial Although it’s a bit late to wish you Surrounded by countryside as we a Happy New Year, it's good to are, I'm now looking for someone know that spring is round the cor- to write about the wildlife sur- ner, the days are getting longer rounding us, a few paragraphs and we can stop talking about would be ideal. Please think Brexit. Jenny Woodall is once about volunteering as a driver for again opening her lovely garden the Link project, such is the de- throughout the summer in Kettle mand, even if you can only spare Lane, and newborn lambs are ex- a few hours a week. Read all pected at Larkrise Farm, so do about it inside. give your children/grandchildren a Jo Watkins treat and take them to see them.

Oops! – in the last edition There was a hiccup, the article West Ashton Goes Bats should have been attributed to the author Ann Strickland and not as printed. apologies to Ann.

VACANCY - PARISH CLERK

West Ashton Parish Council invites applications for the post of parish clerk.

This is an interesting and varied post, worked mainly from home, sup- porting an active, community focused parish council.

You will handle the agenda and take minutes for our bi-monthly evening meetings, all correspondence and financial accounts. Good literacy, numeracy and IT skills are required. Salary to NALC rates according to experience, about 3 - 4 hours per week, plus mileage allowance.

Applications, with curriculum vitae, to: Carol Hackett (acting clerk) Address..23 Orchard Close, West Ashton BA14 6AU. Tel 01225 760372 or email [email protected] for more information

Floods Then Feb In 2013 we had a lot of rain in Decem- 2014 ber that continued into January 2014 resulting in these floods (top pic). This (lower pic) is December this year, will we get the same again or perhaps more? To think there are plans to build here, surely this is madness. What chance will the residents have, insur- ance alone will be impos- Now Dec sible and if the develop- 2019 ers think by putting ex- pansion ponds in will work, I do have my doubts, what would hap- pen once the ponds are full, and who will clear the weeds from them? Per- haps if the residents were to be given a bucket each? Tim Le Mare The fields below West Ashton but still in the Parish, Tim Le Mare

Winter Storm Ciara arrives in West Ashton 9th February 2020.

Bratton Road was clear early on Sunday afternoon but by about 3 o’clock this fallen tree was causing a hazard. Andrew Wilson and Richard Covington made short work of tidying up with the aid of a chain saw. That still left a lot of small branches and twigs on the road, but at least it was safely passable and the risk of it falling in the night had been re- moved. Peter Carter, a former resident of the village had cut back one of the trees that had fallen earlier.

Lorries and Litter, The Joys of Living in Yarnbrook Road

The road was closed to cope with this exceptionally wide load. On 3 and 4 February, the A350 re- sorted to single lane traffic and police escorts, due to two wide loads of rail infrastructure leaving the M4 heading to Westbury, causing exten- sive traffic tail backs, especially at West Ashton traffic lights and Yarn- brook crossroads.

Photo Jean Robertson

Photo Jean Robertson Photo Trevor Porter Aftermath of Christmas morning, Friday 27 December. Rubbish from Two and half sacks full of paper rub- a vehicle strewn along the A350 at bish collected by Ian and Jean Rob- the bottom of West Ashton Hill ertson and safely disposed of. heading towards Yarnbrook. Jean Robertson

Correspondence Why should the Parish Council precept be increased? NO public transport NO village shop or amenities NO public house NO 20mph speed limit to reduce the rat run in Bratton Road SO WHY an increase in the Parish Council precept? And FOR WHAT – another waste of money for additional speed bumps when the existing ones clearly don’t work. IF there is to be another increase a survey should be sent to all villagers, many of whom are on pensions and fixed incomes, to take into account their views. Neil and Roe Heard 5

West Ashton W.I. We finished 2019 with two very en- organized by Trowbridge W.I. on joyable meetings. In November we behalf of the Spinners, a group of welcomed Linda Dowsett, an amaz- seven W.I.s we belong to. In Janu- ing woman who has raised £35,000 ary, Louise from an Osteopath for the buying and training of guide Practice in Melksham gave us lots dogs, but on this occasion was tell- of advice on the whys and where- ing us all about the skydive she did fores of arthritis, joint pain and to raise money for Bath Hospital. A headaches and how to treat them. video of the jump taken with a cam- We now look forward to the months era attached to her tandem part- ahead - February when we will have ner’s glove was breathtaking but did the opportunity to make Venetian not make any of us want to rush Carnival masks with the guidance of and have a go! In December our Karen Johnson. March – our AGM numbers were swelled to about 50, and Birthday Party. April -- David when we welcomed visitors from Bradley OBE (not my husband!) will Semington, Staverton, North Brad- tell us about the work of Medical ley, Southwick and Hilperton W.I.s Detection Dogs. to our Christmas Party. We were We aim to foster fun and friendship entertained by Ray Dance and Ju- and promise you a warm welcome if dith Sharp who sang some "Songs you fancy joining us in the Village from the Shows". A delicious meal, Hall at 7:30 p.m. on the fourth supplied mainly by our members, Wednesday of the month. quizzes and a raffle completed a Jackie Bradley marvelous evening. Some members attended a delightful Carol Service

Village Hall 50 Club winners MONTH 1ST PRIZE (£20) 2ND PRIZE (£15) 3RD PRIZE (£10)

November Pamela Piggot Keith Taylor Sylvia Preston December Michael Shiles Holly Westlake L. Bonham-Maciver New Years Eve Nathan Jenkyn Vaughan Nichols Jenny Kettle January Lucy Pullen Ann Ogden Geoff Davis February Ann Loverock Sarah Bond Diane England

If you would like to take part contact Sylvia Preston on 01225 765858, or

Annual Skittles Match: Village Hall v Church

Although numbers attending were slightly disappointing, those who came enjoyed a relaxed and friendly evening, and at half time, tucked into a hearty ploughman’s supper. At the end of the evening, the highest ladies score went to Ursula Jenkyn; with the highest score gen- tleman going to John Harris, both living within the village. Both winners were presented with a bottle of In January, this annual event wine and the coveted winner’s cup. brought friendly rivalry between the Thanks went to Raphael and Ethan Village Hall and Church. The last Alford for their splendid work in re- two years the hall has beaten the placing the skittles. Well done to all. church, but 2020 saw the Church Jean Robertson regain their winning form and win by two pins (Hall 215/Church 217).

Christmas Family Fun Day

spoke stalls and a meeting with Fa- ther Christmas and his elf in his grotto were all on offer. When the day was over and monies collated, a magnificent sum of £562 had been raised. This was equally shared between Group B Strep Support and the Sepsis Trust, both at the Royal United Hospital at Bath. Jade Chandler would like to thank everyone for their support for Photo Jade Chandler this successful day and for support- ing two very worthy charities. The Christmas Family Day was held Jean Robertson in mid November in the village hall. Refreshments; face painting; a ball pool; lucky dip; cake stall; many be-

News from Larkrise Farm paid for in part with donations and grants. Unsurprisingly maintenance is an ongoing programme. Whilst we can do some of these jobs with the students the larger jobs need the expertise we don’t always have. We are delighted, therefore, to have finally found our- selves a ‘handyman’ again. In the few months he has been with us Mark has tidied up many areas for us and added the finishing touches to our new Nature Shed. Our little piggies are no longer little at 7 months old. Their cheeky charac- Rain, rain go away! It seemed it would ters are beginning to shine through. never stop over the winter and Wendy, They love snuggling up and if given the Farm Manager, had an uphill task the chance will nibble on your wellies – trying to juggle turnout for all our hors- so beware, you have been warned. es and ponies. Of course, she did a For the first time students and staff brilliant job; thankfully the sun has were fascinated to watch the vet scan started to shine again and the fields our pregnant ewes. We know exactly are drying out, albeit slowly. how many lambs we are expecting at The major project for the spring in- the end of April. All I can reveal is that volves replacing fencing along the Rio, the curly Cotswold ram, may be track and in the carriage track field, young but judging by his performance including around the new round pen has a promising future ahead of him. and donkey enclosure. This is obvious- Ashley Wicks, ly a significant expense which will be Assistant Farm Manager

THANKS

Many, many thanks to everyone who contributed to the collection of £190 for the British Legion Poppy Appeal. My thanks to Jo Watkins for helping me cover most of the village. We would be grateful for some help this year so if anyone feels able to assist us, towards the end of October, please contact us.

Jackie Bradley

WHO's WHO IN DUNGE Paul Boyce, chairman Trowbridge Link

race track. Diagnosed with MS, Paul mans the reception desk on his weekly visit to the Wessex Therapy Centre in Warminster which also provides support, friendship and social contact for members. An author of two books aimed at older teenagers and adults, writing historical fantasies with adventure and escap- ism, one book is based on a character in Japanese history. Paul's passion is Japanese history gained when he took It's a real headache when you have to up judo (acquiring his black belt along make the long journey into Bath RUH the way) and became fascinated by (or even further) if you are elderly or everything Japanese. He says their disabled and have no transport. This is history is unique and fiercely protected when Trowbridge Link, which you may and maintained, and he is particularly have read about in the last issue, interested in the mystique of the Sam- takes a bow. Founded 20 years ago, urai system. Next in line could be Paul has been chairman since 2017. books on Norse mythology, but he's A Kentish man, Paul served in the ar- still considering whether to embark on my for 22 years. Despite witnessing this particular subject. awkward incidents while serving in Starting as a driver for Link, Paul now Northern Ireland, he will never forget heads a team of co-ordinators and the friendship and camaraderie of life about 30 volunteer drivers. A handful in the army. Sports mad, he spent two work full time and others one or two years in the boxing team, primarily to days a week with mileage paid, driving get out of guard duty, and then decid- into town or as far afield as Shropshire ed he needed a 'gentler' sport, and so and Southampton. As well as visits to took up rugby followed by judo. As a doctors and dentists, transport is also staff sergeant in the REME, he worked provided to a variety of venues such as an electronics technician, and after as stroke clubs, gyms and physiother- retiring from the army worked for the apy centres. Customers are asked for MOD for 18 years as an equipment a donation. Drivers are urgently re- manager. He married Jane after meet- quired, so if you have time to spare, ing her on holiday in Egypt in 2008 however limited, why not contact and settled in Dunge 11 years ago, Trowbridge Link on 07969 347042 for attracted there by the views and sur- more information on this worthwhile rounding countryside. It comes as no cause? surprise that the only drawback is that Jo Watkins the road past their house is used as a

JUBILEE WOOD

Despite being waterlogged for much of In response to their wish to be able to the winter, the trees seem to be none do something positive themselves, we the worse. We already have a bird have put a proposal to Wiltshire Coun- cherry in full bloom at one of the cold- cil that we should buy more land and est parts of our site. We have been plant another 25,000 trees. This would busy taking the tubes off those trees be in support of the Council’s Trow- large enough to stand up for them- bridge Bat Management Strategy, selves and it’s amazing how quickly which aims to plant new woodland to the trunks seem to thicken as soon as offset the harmful effects that new they are exposed to the air and sun- housing developments south of Trow- light – perhaps they can absorb more bridge will have on our nationally im- carbon this way? Our hope is that all portant local bat population. It remains this new wood will not prove to be a to be seen whether the Council will temptation to the deer, who seem to prefer to spend the lion’s share of the be getting tamer all the time. Our available developer contribution mon- scouts have been helping us take the ey on employing a project manager leaders out of the shrubs and the hazel and buying, planting and maintaining so that they bush out a bit more and, the new wood using contractor, or en- hopefully, stop our new wood looking trust us scouts to lead a local commu- like a field of lollipops. Being the good nity volunteer effort to a create a lot neighbours that we are, we have plant- more woodland at far less cost. We ed a new hedge alongside the lay-by hope that we can count on local sup- at Armouracre Farm. Hopefully, this port to help us when the time comes will in time stop litter blowing across but the biggest hurdle seems to be the fields, as well as providing new convincing the Council. We have a wildlife habitat. Our young members good track record at Jubilee Wood but have been busy in Biss Wood too, will that be enough? helping with coppicing, clearing ditches Lastly, we are looking for new mem- and generally tidying up. At the re- bers for our maintenance team which quest of Wiltshire Wildlife, we have might suit the newly retired who would been creating “scallops” along some of enjoy doing something really useful in the rides. These let in the sunlight and the open air. No experience neces- encourage the wildflowers. It seems sary. Jobs range from grass cutting to that the vast majority of wildlife in a repairing the loos… And we promise wood live in the margins of the rides. not to talk about Brexit. We meet every Our scallops increase the areas of Tuesday from 10.00 until 3.30. these margins and provide new habi- John Cox, Chairman, Wiltshire West tat. District We now have over 900 young members in our District, many of whom are very concerned about climate change.

Happy 90th Birthday Evelyn Sweetman moved to Yarnbrook Road purchasing their first house where Evelyn still lives today. Two years later, Janet and Adri- an were born, twins must have been a bit of a shock to the system. Once the children were all off to school, Evelyn returned to part time work, initially cleaning, and then a return to Taylors in 1978. Foreign travel and her first passport came later in life for Evelyn, with a few trips to the USA to meet up with friends A party was held in the village hall on Jan and Barb who had returned to the Sunday 1st December to celebrate Eve- USA after renting a cottage on Yarn- lyn Sweetman’s (Mum’s) 90th birthday, brook Road whilst Barb was teaching in which was the day before. Around 60 the area. Fast forward a few years, and friends and family attended for after- there was an invite to a garden party at noon tea. The day itself was celebrated Buckingham Palace in recognition of with a quiet fish & chip lunch at home Dad’s long term commitment to the vil- with family, preserving energy for the lage serving on the village hall commit- big event! tee and as secretary to the parish coun- Evelyn has lived in Wiltshire all her life, cil. Sadly Mum lost her husband Christ- born and raised in North Bradley and mas 2014 but the family is still growing attending Nelson Hayden Secondary with four children, four grand children School in Trowbridge leaving at the age and five great grand children. We just of 14. Work life started straight away want to finish by saying thank you to with a full time job in Taylors until the Mum from all of your children for giving age of 16 when she left to work at Wal- us the best start in life which has dens. Still just 16, Evelyn gave up work served us well. to look after her grandmother who had Janet & Adrian Sweetman gone blind and her uncle and cousins - she looked after them all, cooking, cleaning and washing until the age of 18 when her grandmother died. Evelyn met Cyril in 1948, and they married in the summer of 1952, there was no hon- Cyril and eymoon as two days later Cyril returned Evelyn at to the army for ‘Z training’ having 2 East served in Burma in the war with the Town Special Forces. Home for the first few Road years was a council house on East 1952 Town Road, with Angela born in 1954 and Sandra in 1959. Ten years to the day after getting married, the family

West Ashton School West Ashton School nominate two Stargazing at children every year to represent the West Ashton Primary School views of their peers at Trowbridge The Nursery, Reception, Years One Youth Parliament. Part of the work and Two children of West Ashton C of E Primary School held an evening of stargazing. The evening was a fantastic success with over 60 people in attendance. The children were able to see plenty of stars in the clear skies as well as the moon, the planet Venus and even the Milky Way. The children all enjoyed looking at the moon through tel- of The Youth Parliament is to consid- escopes. er local issues and this led to four The staff of students giving up their warm comfy West Ash- beds for one night to sleep rough at ton organ- the Town Hall to raise vital funds for ised a won- the homeless people in Trow- derful event bridge. They were raising money for which in- Alabaré, a homeless charity who cluded a support young people and street Power homeless in Trowbridge. Their Point to evening involved lots of fun activities help the such as: decorating kindness rocks children to leave around town for people to identify ob- find; writing a ‘helping hands’ prayer jects and for a prayer tree focussing on those phenomena who help us; and writing messages they might see in the night sky then for peace in ‘petals for peace’ which there was hot chocolate with a story will hopefully be displayed at County to warm everyone up. The evening Hall. After much singing, hot choco- ended with a performance from the late and even a visit to the old cells, Nursery and Reception children of they spent the night on their card- Shooting Stars class to showcase board boxes being grateful they were their knowledge of planets. not outside! The four boys raised a Mrs. Sandra Meehan superb £265. Alex Blake-Thwaite, Senior Teacher

Just The Job In the olden days, folklore was a usually takes just over an hour to big thing and a possible indicator clear but a full load is rather more of impending climatic conditions. daunting and as the time wore on Last autumn I noticed that many (not withstanding a lunch break!) bushes were becoming heavy it seemed to becoming endless! with berry growth and remem- However it just so happened that bered that this could potentially a young lad from further up the herald a bad winter. village came bicycling by, stopped So, back on 30 November, in an- to offer a helping hand and what a ticipation of this, I decided to or- great help it turned out to be. We der a full wagon load of log burn- would like to thank this thoughtful ing logs instead of the usual half young man very much indeed for load. Due to our location logs sparing twenty minutes of his have to be delivered onto the time. Just the job! road and man handled to the Paul and Margaret Workman back of the house. Half a load

Kettle Farm Cottage Open Garden – This Year’s Plans

We moved to Kettle Farm Cottage 2 and Gardens Illustrated, and I also ½ years ago, chosen partly for the appeared on Gardener’s World tele- garden, since when I have been at- vision programme with my last gar- tempting to build a beautiful space. I den 2 ½ years ago. Both my previous garden with colour, grouping plants gardens opened under the National together that are of the same hue Gardens Scheme, a charity raising and tone. I am trying to create a pic- money for caring charities – Macmil- ture, although some time later it lan, Marie Curie etc. I welcome visi- doesn’t always work, so out comes tors at any time and any numbers the offender to be replaced with an between May and September, entry alternative. At the moment, I am £4.50, tea/coffee £2, cake £2.50. heavily into salvias, some of which are hardy and can be left in the Details are in the Yellow Book or the ground. Others have to be over win- website:- www.ngs.org.uk . Mary tered. I am using them instead of Berry is our President, and in 2018 bedding plants. I have a lot of peren- we raised £3.1 million. I look forward nials which I love, and between 30- to seeing you. 40 roses. I had two previous gardens that appeared in The English Garden Jenny Woodall

1313

Parish Council Matters

The Acting Parish Clerk, Carol Hack- the figures may ett Tel: 01225 760372 - email: change slightly once [email protected] they have been cal- Website - West Ashton Website culated and issued http://www.westashton.org.uk/ by Wiltshire Council. please send any comments to Carol Whilst the parish council has been at [email protected] able to absorb some of the additional cost forecast for the next financial Parish Councillors are: Richard Cov- year 2020/21, it has still been neces- ington (Chair), Simon Alford (Vice- sary to increase the precept. The Chair), Helen Barrow, Steve Molloy, main reason for this is to cover the Ian Robertson, Horace Prickett (Wilts cost of sharing a SID (speed indica- Councillor). tor device) with neighbouring parish- Clerk – The parish clerk, Steven F. es as part of our continued efforts to King has had to resign due to ill control speeding through the village. health. In the interim Carol Hackett Conservation – So far the “tree has kindly agreed to look after the fund” of £300 to encourage residents clerk role until the end of the finan- to plant trees in their gardens has cial year in March 2020. paid out just under £7. Funds are Precept – At the parish council limited, but if any resident plants a meeting held on the 15th January fruit tree and provides a receipt of 2020 it was resolved to increase the purchase then the parish council will precept from £7,250 for 2019-2020 contribute a maximum of £15 to- to £7,500 for 2020 -2021. This is an wards the cost of the tree. This offer increase of just over 3%. Unfortu- will be limited to one tree per house- nately, during this time the “Tax hold. Base figure” used by Wiltshire Coun- Village Signs – Two new signs for cil to calculate the number of house- West Ashton have been erected, one holds required to pay the full council by the roundabout on the road into tax has reduced. This can be for a Trowbridge and the other near the number of reasons, for example re- entrance to Rood Ashton Lake. duction because of single occupan- Fly Tipping – Contact Wiltshire cy. The net effect of this, is that the Council on 01225 777234 or online increase will be around 5.8% for a at: http://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/ band “D” property. This will mean the parkingtransportandstreets/ band “D” that was £30.99 last year roadshighwaysstreetcare/ will increase to £32.91, which is 63 mywiltshirereport.htm pence payable per week. Band “H” will be £1.26 per week. Please note

Neighbourhood Plan – As you read sharing the device it’s unlikely to be this magazine, the plan will be part more than once every two or three way through its next phase. The 6- weeks. week Regulation 14 Consultation, School Footpath –Wiltshire Council th will run from Monday 17 February to have now issued a diversion notice th Monday 30 March, and provides the for footpath number 21 in West Ash- opportunity for local residents and ton (part). The diversion is not other Statutory Consultees to formal- “agreed”, until the order is confirmed ly comment on the draft Plan and its and advised to the School, Acorn policies etc.. The consultation will be Education Trust. The order is subject on the basis of the following docu- to a public consultation period, which ments : Draft Plan; Scoping Report closes on the 17th February. The (as background); Landscape Gap ‘made’ order was sent out to all par- Report (as evidence); The SEA ties. . If objections are received, Screening and HRA Report. (which are not withdrawn), the order These documents can be viewed on will need to go forward to the West- the West Ashton website, with hard- ern Area Planning Committee for copies available at the village hall. consideration, and if Wiltshire Coun- You are invited to the village hall on cil continues to support the making of 25/2/2020 from 7.15pm to 9.15pm or the order, it will be determined by an 28/2/2020 from 10.30 -12.00 to look Inspector appointed on behalf of the at the information on display, ask Secretary of State, through the pro- questions, and discuss the draft plan cess of written representations, or with members of the Neighbourhood holding a local hearing or public in- Planning team. Response Forms will quiry. be available for submitting any com- Boundary Review – As reported in ments to the consultation, either on the last publication of the magazine, the website or at the Village Hall. Trowbridge Town Council has em- The Forms need to be returned to th barked on another “Community Gov- the parish council by the 30 March ernance Review”. Hopefully there 2020. have been some submissions oppos- Community Speed Watch – The ing this wholesale attack on the par- team who administers this for the ish. The initial consultation was due police has been contacted and pro- for completion on the 26th February gress is being made to restart the 2020. speed watch scheme. But, as al- Richard Covington, Parish Council ways, we would like more volunteers Chairman to help, it’s usually only a couple of hours a week and since we will be

1515

Village Hall News Bookings for the village hall have that ticketed events of the type de- picked up again and the hall is in scribed will be payable in advance. regular use almost every day of the This will help to accurately cater for week. the correct numbers and ensure any Next few events: Murder Mystery – potential loss is reduced to a mini- Murder on the Nile – 14th March; mum. Payment must be made in Quiz on 25th April and VE day com- advance by cash or cheque and giv- memorations on the 9th May. There en to a committee member. Cheques will be more pub nights, keep an eye to be made payable to “West Ashton on the notice board and email. Village Hall” and can be posted to If anyone would like to receive email the treasurer:- updates or for some reason are no If anyone has suggestions about fu- longer getting them and wish to re- ture events, please get in touch with ceive them, please send an email me or a member of the committee. to:[email protected] After all, it's your village hall. .uk Thank you to all. To all who attend various events put Richard Covington, Chairman VH com- on by the West Ashton Village Hall mittee Committee, there have been occa- sions recently when people have said they wanted tickets for village hall events, expecting to pay on the door but have not attended. This has a knock on effect that it can prevent others who might wish to attend from doing so and has also caused financial loss to the hall funds. In particular, the Christmas lunch last Decem- ber when numbers were down by about 13 on the anticipated 50. Events priced at only £5 typically have no significant cost for entertain- ment or food and can generally be coped with. However in the case of the last Christmas Lunch priced at a reasonable £15 per person (catering cost of £14.50) the impact to the village hall was almost £190. It was Photo Jo Watkins therefore agreed at the committee Fiona, a regular at the New Year’s meeting on the 21st January 2020 party, in an eye catching ensemble.

White Doves Peace Choir

mood. This year we were entertained by White Doves Choir which is a small friendly choir, open to singers who enjoy performing and who are interested in promoting peace through music. Their conductor Sian Penlington and singers had such enthusiasm, and treated us to traditional carols and songs from an array of countries such as Ukraine, Austria, Spain, Wales, Afri- ca, Czechoslovakia and Lapland. For- tunately for audience participation the traditional carols were all in English. Photo Jean Robertson We were also treated to two virtuoso The church was packed with villagers performances from Rob Colquhoun and friends for the annual start to the and David Moss playing guitar and fid- festive season and our Christmas con- dle. There were toe tapping Romanian cert. The church was illuminated from dance tunes and jigs and some singa- afar by our resident lighting experts long . The readings from Joan and Tim and looked stunning. The parking was on the preparations and frustrations of a challenge, but any frustration slipped Christmas had us all chuckling. away with the glass of mulled wine and A magnificent start to the festive sea- mince pie on arrival. son and thank you to all organisers. Inside, the church looked very festive The evening raised £210 for the with tree and candle lights to set the Church. Jean Covington

THE CHRISTMAS COFFEE MORNING CROWD Just a few of the regulars who enjoy the village hall Friday coffee mornings. A collection was made for organiser Margaret Workman who provides the coffee and most important, the bis- cuits. Margaret was presented with a garden voucher as hardly a week goes by when she’s not there to open, close and set up. The mornings are open to anybody, any age, villager or not, with lots of chinwag putting the world to rights and terrible jokes (you know who you are). Jo Watkins Photo Sheila Pearce

1717

Dumped 8th Jan, Christmas is over and time to day before as whilst it smelt, it wasn’t look ahead, get some dates in the diary, obnoxious and there didn’t appear to be plans to look forward to. My friend and I rot. Initially the first bit I saw I thought chat and propose in my kitchen over a was a human foot! Anyway, we phoned coffee. Being a dry day we decide it is it in to the council. time to go for a walk, brush off those Useful info - I later learnt you can down- cobwebs. load the app called ‘My Wiltshire’ where Usually, when I go for a local walk – and you can report potholes and fly tipping also when I remember – I take a bag for instantly. the litter up East Town Lane. This time, I However, asked my friend if she wouldn’t mind meat would helping out. So off we went with latex need to be gloves, and bags for the rubbish. By the reported pret- time we had turned right down the little ty instantly. cut through road and reached the gate- Sad to say, I way near the stables, our bags were full. haven’t been Karen has posed here to show you the back up there extent of our bags (there appears to be yet, as it left regular users that go up there, park up, a really bad buy from Tesco’s, then splatter their rub- memory and bish around the countryside). Nice! I am aware It was then that I noticed even more that there is bags, black ones and many of them so much tipped into the ditch by the hedge. Be- more litter to moaning the ignorance of some people, clean up we walked up only to find it was butch- over there. ered meat (see pic). There was a pile Keep Britain and it could have only been dumped the Tidy! Leya

Pottering In The Garden Bring on the spring, tells me we need to flattened! I recently read that spring real- be thinking about, looking ahead to a ly is three seasons defined as early, mid, new season in the garden. and late, sounds like a good way of di- Early spring flowers, bring such a cheer- viding up the work to me! (Less inten- ful sight to the dull days of winter. As I sive). Everything takes longer these write this, the first snowdrops raise their days for some reason? closed heads pointing to the sky, I see Tips for getting ahead - straight in with (tête-à-tête), a smaller dwarf variety of tackling weeds, as left in they will just daffodil, with its tight buds doing exactly grow bigger, clearing the greenhouse, a the same, and I love them because they wash down in all the crevices, and a stand up well in West Ashton’s windy spray with Jeyes Fluid, will help with re- conditions, unlike the giant version of the ducing any bugs, wrapped now in cotton King Alfred variety, which are very soon wool and waiting for the warm sun to

Ode to Rolo Polo

With heavy hearts we had to say farewell to our dear Rolo, 10½ years young, on 11th January 2020 after a very sudden decline in his health. We rehomed him from a Cavalier breeder 9 years ago after he had been diagnosed with Syringo- myelia (the presence of fluid filled cavi- ties in the spinal cord of the neck caused by abnormal pressures in the fluid sur- rounding the spinal cord). We’re sure those who knew him would agree he was a “spirited” dog and he soon because “top dog” in our then four- fold family of Cavaliers. Since joining the herd of Heards he has travelled to and from France so many best mate Harley who is clearly pining, times his passport (complete with photo) and also Jonty, our old boy, who has was full and would have had to be re- taken over the position of “top dog” alt- newed this year had he survived his hough he is waning at 11½. short illness. RIP dear Rolo. He is greatly missed by us and also his Neil and Roe Heard hatch them out. larger ones, to bring them on in the A good tidy up in the borders will help, greenhouse; I’m hoping to advance their but I never rush to prune, hydrangea size, for when I transfer them into the heads as they are best left on, as they garden. The alliums which I bought at protect the new season’s early shoots Hampton Court during the summer will from the frosts which are still to come. take an extra season to become a more The wildlife in my garden continues, the mature bulb, but well worth waiting for! I deer are still regular visitors, rabbits, not will be looking forward to late spring, for quite so many sightings, but I’ve seen a sowing seeds and watching the magic of fox, which is probably responsible for the new season’s growth emerging for all the latter, and several woodpeckers. Favour- summer containers and bedding plants. ite of all is a lovely robin, always by my Maintenance is high on the list of things side as soon as there is a spade in my to do, repairs to fences, trellis, and sup- hand, and waits on my arbour table for port posts, but that’s one job I delegate me to fetch some bird seed for him or to my very good all round handyman. her? I see there is a nest in the climbing Top tip would be to clear all gutters and rose, next to my front door, I’m thinking drains of leaves, following all the wind it’s a robins nest, as I’ve never seen and rain we have been having, At least such a small, and perfectly beautiful all the water butts are now completely compact nest. I have planted mixed tu- full. lips into large pots and alliums in even Holly Westlake

1919

A Busy Festive Season at St John’s

Like the confectionery, there sheets. The church seemed to be “all sorts” going on at looked stunning West Ashton rural church, during bathed in colourful November and December. illumination, kindly From entrance steps being repaired; provided by Power gutters being renovated; trees being Logistics and thanks pollarded. To having a full church for this goes to Bev and Pete Wills for the Christingle Service; a who live in the village. After all out- Thanksgiving Service for the lives of lay was paid, a magical sum of £210 John Payne and Pam Rowe; to a was put into the Church funds. Syl- Christmas Concert; a Christening; via and Jean wished to thank all West Ashton School Christmas Ser- those who came on the evening and vice; to a Carol Service and then the especially to ALL who helped in any Christmas Eve Midnight Commun- way to make the evening such a ion - something for everyone. The success. As we head into spring, church was beautifully decorated for the church has various repairs/ the festive season, making a wel- installations scheduled; a christen- coming and friendly setting, duly ing in February; Mothering Sunday appropriate for celebrating the birth on 22 March and Easter Services in of our Lord. April. (Full details on the back cover The local White Doves Choir enter- of this magazine). Do try and come tained us for the annual Christmas along, you would be very welcome. concert and performed festive tunes Jean Robertson with no musical backing or song

Trio Paradis Jacquelyn Bevan - piano, Lisa Betteridge - violin & Linda Stocks - cello - bring their Palm Court Trio concerts to a new venue, the Park Club (behind the Albany) on the first Thursday lunchtime of each month, February- December.

In March, music by women composers is the theme, whilst April's concert has a few surprises. The concert lasts about 45 minutes and is suitable for all ages, including families. Entrance is by donation with a retiring collection. For program and further information, visit www.trioparadis.com. There is limited seating, so early booking is advised. Reserve seats at www.ticketsource.co.uk

Saying Yes to Life We are all aware of the urgent need thedral. to safeguard the environment these The book is based on the story of days. Many young people are deep- Creation in Genesis 1, and each ly concerned, even fearful, for the chapter looks at one of the seven future of our planet. It reminds me of days of creation and what God made the way my generation felt about the on that day. She brings together in- danger of nuclear war when I was sights from the Bible with an in depth growing up. Christians have not al- knowledge of the impact of climate ways been at the forefront of envi- change, pollution, deforestation and ronmental action, but we should be modern methods of food production for a simple reason – we believe God and distribution. She also gives made this many examples from around the beautiful world of practical projects aimed to planet which improve our environment and sug- human greed gests ways we can change our own and careless- habits and lifestyles. ness has It is easy to feel overwhelmed by the done so seriousness and complexity of the much to en- problem. As I read the book, it danger. The opened my eyes to many things I Archbishop didn’t know or had not considered. of Canter- But the overall message is positive: bury’s Lent none of us can do everything, but we Book for can all do something. There are also 2020, ‘Saying some fascinating facts which will in- Yes to life’ by crease your sense of wonder at the Ruth Valerio, good earth God has made. For in- leaves us in stance, did you know that trees are no doubt of our responsibilities in this social beings and can even talk to area. It’s a challenging read, but I one another (after a fashion) to warn would thoroughly recommend it. of coming drought or danger? Read Dr Ruth Valerio is Global Advocacy the book and you’ll discover how! and Influencing Director at Christian As Christians take our place along- charity Tearfund. An environmental- side other concerned members of ist, theologian and social activist, society, we have the opportunity to Ruth holds a doctorate from Kings share in a natural way why we care College London and honorary doc- about the planet God made and sent torates from the Universities of Win- his Son Jesus to redeem. chester and Chichester. She is also Allan Coutts Canon Theologian at Rochester Ca-

2121

St John’s Church West Ashton

Warmly invite you to a celebration of Mothering Sunday On the 22nd March 10.30 it will be a Family Service.

Warmly invite you to worship and witness the following Easter Services

Palm Sunday, 5th April, 2020 10.30 Good Friday, 10th April, 2020 An Hour by The Cross - 2.00pm The reading of the Passion of our Lord’s Death on the Cross. There is a green hill far away, outside a city wall, Where the dear Lord was crucified, who died to save us all. We may not know, we cannot tell, what pain he had to bear. But we believe it was for us, he hung and suffered there.

Easter Sunday, 12th April, 2020 10.30 Communion Service – 10.30am.

The Day of the Resurrection Christ is Risen He is Risen Indeed – Alleluia

We remember the first Easter Day Bringing a New Beginning and Hope to God’s People

Good Friday is a time of sadness, Easter is a time of gladness. On Good Friday Jesus died, but rose again at Eastertide All Thanks and Praise to God.

I Useful Numbers Contact Information

Builder Paul - New build, extensions, 01225 753997/07799 563347 I renovation specialist, alterations. 19 Bratton Road, I Foot Reflexologist Annie Ritchens 01225 752002 Mob 07967630429 Briken Motors Garage….MOTs, I Garage Services servicing etc, 01225 755203 www.services.wiltshire.gov.uk/ I Library The Mobile Library visits Orchard Close 3.30 to 4 pm MobileLibrary/Library/Stop/57 I Gardener Paul Hobbs 01225 761684 Newspapers Seend Post Office deliver 01380 828250 I Parish Council Chairman: Mr Richard Covington 01225 761904 I David Bradley Neighbourhood Watch Scheme. Village Co- 01225 754100 I Police Concerns ordinator Neighbourhood Policing Team PC Non-emergency No 101 I Mark Hough PC1140 Community skips in Canal Road, http://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/ I Refuse Trowbridge for larger items. rubbish-collection-days I Seamstress & Soft Clare Humphries, curtains, dress- 01225 767703 Furnishings making and alterations Mob 07929 122631 I St. John's Church Services Sundays 10.30am. 01225 777331 Rev Allan Coutts I West Ashton Taxi service. Morning pickup 9.30am, Boomerang Taxi Mon-Sat West Ashton to Trow- I Service bridge. Price each way: adult return 12 noon Or 2pm. West Ashton to Trow- £1.60; child 80p; children under Tel: 0800 371297 to book. I bridge. 4 free. Bus passes can be used. West Ashton C of E I School Debby Huxham Head Teacher 01225 754354 West Ashton Ladies I Skittles Team Liz Hickerton 01380 870437 I Beauty Salon Kelly Beavis 31 Bratton Road Manicure Pedicure Facials etc. (Gift Tokens) 07766117813 I WI Fourth Wednesday of the Month Holly Westlake 01225 755866 I Yoga 6.15pm Most Monday’s duration 1.5hrs Angeline Nicholson 01380 830458

I Coffee Mornings Fridays 10.30 to Noon Margaret Workman 01225 766998 colin.delve@dano I Zen Judo Classes Age 8+ Village Hall 7.00-9 Fridays. Colin Delve ne.com

I Moo Music 10 to 10.40 & 10.50 to 11.20 Nicola 07534799276

I Taekwondo Fridays 4.20 to 5.00 & 5.00 to 5.45 Nick 07921855900 I 2323

What’s Coming Up I

March I 4 Wives Village Hall 7.30 21st Century Architecture John Salvat I Village Hall Murder Mystery, Murder On The Nile by Wewast Ashtom Fun Players. 14 I 7.30 for 8 sharp. Tickets £15 with a 3 course meal I 22 Mothering Sunday service Church 10.30 I 25 WI 7.30 Village Hall AGM Bring and Buy Table. Birthday Party I

April I

1 Wives 7.30pm Village Hall Fun Quiz I 5 Palm Sunday service Church 10.30 April I 10 Hour By The Cross Church 2pm I 12 Easter Day service church 10.30 I 15 Parish Council Meeting 7.15 Village Hall 22 WI Village Hall 7.30pm Medical Detection Dogs with David Bradley OBE I 25 Village Hall Quiz Night 7.30 for 8 Tickets £5 incl. a light supper NB tables seat 4 I

I May 6 Wives end of season party 7.30 Village Hall I 9 Village Hall VE Day Commemorations I

20 Parish Council Meeting and AGM 7.15 Village Hall I 27 WI Village Hall 7.30pm Topical Issues with a fish and chip supper I

All Village Hall events are with a licenced bar with a raffle I Tickets From Sylvia Preston 01225 765858 or Jean Robertson 01225 760368 I Payment for tickets must be paid before the event I Social Dancing Most Sundays at 6pm Mr. Kevin Burge 07933 771205 I Dance Class Tuesdays at 10am Dee Dee Wilde 01380 871608 Dog Training Thursday’s at 6.30pm Ken Scott 07867 820497 I Pilates Most Tuesday’s at 5pm Amie Hawkins 07738 449245 I Tai Chi Monday’s at 10.30am Brian Wooding 01985 213474 I Marlene Pike 01380 870272 Wives Group 730pm 1st Wednesday of the month Sylvia Preston 01225 765858 I