NEWS AND INFORMATION

MAGAZINE

Photo from Sixpenny Handley First School

PARISH OF SIXPENNY HANDLEY WITH

October 1997

Including: Woodyates, Deanland and Minchington Published by Sixpenny Handley Parish Council The Downsman October 1997 PARISH DIRECTORY Parish Councillors John Curtis...... 552397 Sixpenny Handley Co-ordinators Chairman Mr. P.G.Chick...... 552256 Area 1 - Dean Lane Don Penrose...... 552022 Mrs E. Miles...... 552768 Area 2 - Dean Land & North East Mrs P.K.Bailey-Wright.. 552771 Barry Howes...... 552583 Mr. C.Styles...... 552658 Area 3 - Handley Central Mr. S.Judd...... 552563 Charles Nodder...... 552292 Mr. N.Bowes...... 552416 Area 4 - West & South Mr. B.M.J.Curtis...... 552397 George Tozer...... 552330 Pentridge Other Areas (These are separate Homewatch Schemes) Vice-Chairman Mr. I.Davies...... 552076 Pentridge Roy Elford...... 552296 Mr. C.J.Goodman...... 552705 Woodyates Roy Warner...... 552665 Mr. C.F.Sims...... 552629 Police Blandford Station. 01258 452101 Clerk Mr. B.J.Hansford...... 552468 Sixpennies Pre-School County Councillor Mr. T. Palmer...... 552321 Chairman & Fax 552405 Waiting List Helen Bradshaw...... 552042 District Councillor Mr. A. Humphries...... 517365 Supervisor Hazel Killeen...... 552059

Sixpennies Pre-School Link Group Footpaths Liaison Officers Supervisor Sue Shepperd...... 552784 Sixpenny Handley Mr. A.Turner...... 552735 Sixpenny Handley W.I. (Formed in 1923) Pentridge Mr. C.J.Goodman...... 552705 President Mrs Stella Symes...... 552236 Downsman Editorial Team Secretary Mrs H. Eynon...... 552308 Editor Alan Vincent...... 552788 Sixpenny Handley Mother’s Union Ian Davies...... 552076 Leader Pamela Wood...... 552608 Brian Hansford...... 552468 Secretary Jean Mayne...... 552692 Churches Sixpenny Handley Bowls Club Church of St. Mary’s, Sixpenny Handley Chairman Robert Jesse...... 552340 St. Rumbold’s, Pentridge Secretary Gill Martin...... 552297 St. Andrews, Gussage St.Andrew Handley Sports Club Vicar Rev. Ron. Wood...... 552608 Chairman Tony Dale...... 552540 Roman Catholic Church of Our Lady of Lourdes & Secretary Brian Hansford...... 552468 St. Cecilia, Team Managers -Sat. Mark Young...... 552741 Priest Fr. John Mordaunt.01258 452051 -Sun T. B. A. 1st Scout Group The Wednesday Club Group Scout Leader Mr. Barry Howes...... 552583 Chairman Pamela Wood...... 552608 Scout Leader Ray Hemmings….. 01722 501504 Secretary Vacancy Cub Leader Esmie Isaacs……...... 517203 Chase Community Friends Doctors Drs. Pelly, Nodder & Morgan Chairman Alec Hunt...... 552210 Dean Lane Surgery...... 552500 Secretary Sally Clarke...... 552235 Schools Sixpenny Handley Lawn Tennis Club First School Handley First School...... 552356 Chairman Anne Reed...... 552518 Middle School Cranborne Middle School 517348 Secretary Gael Radclyffe...... 552829 Upper School Queen Elizabeth’s School Membership/Treasurer Bill Chorley...... 552776 Wimborne...... …... 01202 885233 Sixpenny Handley Cricket Club Sixpenny Handley Village Hall Chairman Nick Emm 01747 825598 Chairman Mr. S Judd...... 552563 Secretary Juli Spendley 01202 822244 Secretary Mrs P.K.Bailey-Wright... 552771 Sixpenny Handley Flower Arranging Club Bookings Mrs Michelle Daniels...... 552189 Chairman Eileen Miles...... 552768 Sixpenny Handley Flower Show Secretary Dawn Ridout...... 552407 Chairman Brian Hansford...... 552468 Happy Nappy Club Secretary Geraldine Vincent...... 552788 Chairperson Penny Morrison...... 552024 For The Kidz S.H.E.D.D.S. Chairman Bronia Styles...... 552658 Chairman Godfrey Turner...... 552533 Secretary Michelle Daniels...... 552189

Sixpenny Handley Homewatch Overall Co-ordinator & Police Focal Point

2 The Downsman October 1997

Welcome to the Cover Picture October edition of Sixpenny Handley First School The Downsman. Would-be Tennis Stars ready for action! Following our reproduction problems Kept Village Competition” 1997 with the June magazine I hope you will all Prizegiving held at agree that they were successfully Village Hall on the 25th September. overcome in our August issue. Thanks are mainly due to Brian Hansford who put a The results of the competition can be lot of effort into getting the final copies to found in the centre of the magazine. the excellent quality we achieved. Whilst I am talking about the production Keep those contributions coming...... of the magazine I also want to express my thanks to the members of the Bowls club who help in collating and stapling, and the Alan Vincent Homewatch members who deliver to every household in the Parish. 5 The Parsonage Sixpenny Handley The Flower Show on the 16th August was a delight to attend and personally I e-mail: [email protected] particularly enjoyed the Vintage cars and Telephone – 552788 the archery. Thank you to every one who Office Hours (ColourCare Int. Ltd – assisted in the staging of the event. ) 01722 412202.

You will see on the letters page that the organisers of the “For The Kidz” activities have felt it necessary to justify what they are doing. As The S.H.E.D.D.S. organisers made similar comments in their August article it would appear that despite their extensive efforts on behalf of the community the people running both groups are subject to petty remarks and unjustified criticisms. - I do not believe this is appropriate in a community such as ours and we should all support fully the activities of its organisations. The next edition of this Magazine For their own part the organisers should will be published on the recognise the need to continue to 1st December 1997 communicate as fully as possible their activities, targets and achievements to the people of the village. The Downsman is KKKKKKKKKK the ideal vehicle to achieve this. Copy Deadline is 15th November 1997 Geraldine and I attended the “ Best

3 The Downsman October 1997 BRIDGE AT THE ROEBUCK

Recycling ALTERNATE WEDNESDAY EVENINGS COMMENCING AT 8 O’CLOCK PLAYERS AT ALL LEVELS OF SKILL ARE WELCOME

Wednesday 8th October --- " --- 22nd October --- " --- 5th November --- " --- 19th November --- " --- 3rd December --- " --- 17th December

If there are sufficient persons interested Chess At Church Farm could be incorporated on these evenings. Bill Chorley Recycling Centre Tel: 01725 552776 Facilities to Recycle Paper & Cardboard Textiles Plastic and Glass Bottles

THE WEDNESDAY CLUB

Are you free on a Wednesday afternoon? Do you enjoy meeting friends, old and new?

Then, why not come along to WEDNESDAY CLUB. Wednesday Club is the only club with no subscription. You just come along and pay for your tea on every other Wednesday afternoon at 2:30pm in the Village Hall. You will also get a talk or entertainment while you are there, and a chance to meet new friends and chat to old ones.

All for 75p!

Its such good value, you just have to give it a try!

Wednesday, 1st, 15th and 29th October and then every other Wednesday.

4 The Downsman October 1997

Prizewinners Draw No 1 - June 1997 1st Prize £50 Number 128 Mr. S Judd, Church Farm Bungalow, Sixpenny Handley 2nd Prize £20 Number 216 Mr. Owen Smith, St. James Road, Ferndown 3rd Prize £10 Number 96 Mrs. S Young, Mill Hill Lodge, Moor Crichel 4th Prize £10 Number 117 Mr. K H Summerell, Sheasby Close, Sixpenny Handley

Prizewinners Draw No 2 - July 1997 1st Prize £50 Number 183 Mrs J M Harris, Paddock Close, Sixpenny Handley 2nd Prize £20 Number 26 Mr A Taylor, Hanging Cottage, 3rd Prize £10 Number 43 Mrs H Woodget, Hunt Corner Farm, Sixpenny Handley 4th Prize £10 Number 103 Mr M Catchpole, Hill House, Sixpenny Handley

Prizewinners Draw No 3 - August 1997 1st Prize £50 Number 161 Mr I Middleton, Coppice House, Newtown 2nd Prize £20 Number 58 Z R Neave, Gussage St. Michael 3rd Prize £10 Number 199 Tina Baker, East Woodyates 4th Prize £10 Number 135 R H J Rivers, St. Mary’s Court, Sixpenny Handley

Prizewinners Draw No 4 - September 1997 1st Prize £50 Number 24 Maureen Preedy, Dean Lane, Sixpenny Handley nd 2 Prize £20 Number 140 Mrs MacKenzie, St. Mary’s Court, Sixpenny Handley 3rd Prize £10 Number 42 Hilary Muspratt, Dean Lane, Sixpenny Handley 4th Prize £10 Number 17 D Rowe, Town Farm Place, Sixpenny Handley

Draw No 5 will take place at the ‘Star Inn’ Lounge Bar on Monday October 13th at 9:00 pm.

5 The Downsman October 1997

The July meeting was held at the home of At the June meeting members heard Mrs Mr and Mrs R Raban-Williams, when Eynon’s report on the third Triennial Elizabeth Scriven demonstrated flower General Meeting at the N.E.C in arranging and Pamela Slater narrowly Birmingham. She had found this most won a garden quiz. A Ploughman’s interesting and enjoyable. A programme supper was enjoyed by all. of slides of the Canadian Rockies, the speaker being Mrs K. Browning, followed August saw us “doing our bit” to help at this – both the slides and the commentary the Flower Show and Fete by running a were excellent. bottles and cans Tombola stall which resulted in our handing over more than Also in June about 10 members spent a £100 for the causes. very interesting evening at Down Farm, where Mr Martin Green talked about his Early in September, we entertained senior archaeological explorations and finds in citizens of the village to tea and music the surrounding area and showed us his following their coach trip, which had been excellent little museum. Among other kindly given by Victory Tours. Our own things we saw a burial pit with the meeting brought the delights of excellent hunched skeleton of a 30 year old man: slides showing badgers with an heads of ancient cattle, the changes in the interesting, informative and amusing shapes of the skulls showing the commentary by Mr Howell. possibility of selective breeding even in those far-off times. In October we are holding an Open All round the room there were cases full Meeting – bring your friends, husbands, of Mr Green’s finds, flint tools for any partners – to hear about St George’s number of different purposes, and Martin Chapel, Windsor. The Dean of Windsor gave us a very clear explanation of the Chapel is the patron of our own church – working and shaping of flint. St Mary’s, so this should be of interest to Also at the Museum another section held all parishioners – October 13th is the the working area and old tools from the date, 7.30 pm the time and the venue is blacksmith’s forge and the cobbler’s shop, the Village Hall. once familiar in so many villages. Heather Eynon/ Nancie Raban-Williams On a day of gusty wind and sudden showers members supported Sixpenny Handley’s Street Fair and our “all-sorts” stall made a useful sum, for both the Fair and the Institute.

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The Mystery of Woodyates away, at Woodlands, Amy Farrant watched as – inn extraordinary the quartet prepared to spend the next night in a grove. The alarm given, Grey and the guide By Michael Shepherd managed to slip away to freedom that was to (Reproduced from “Dorset Magazine” No 8 last a further twenty-four hours but Buyse and 1969) his ill-fated master were hunted down at first ...continued from previous issue. light and captured, complely exhausted, in an overgrown ditch beneath a tree to this day The claim to fame of the buildings lay in the known as Monmouth's Ash. Hauled before late 17th century for the date 1672 was clearly Anthony Elricks at Holt Lodge, the rebel discernible in a beam above the fireplace leader was already well on his way to the when, as The Woodyates Inn, it was the local gallows. It is a nice story that Monmouth's hostelry. There are many who still aver that, sword was later purchased from mummers at on 7th July 1685, four dishevelled travellers The Woodyates Inn but, hard pressed and in here sought refuge for the night and a change full flight, it would seem highly unlikely that of clothes. Next morning their leader left in this pathetic party of fugitives would choose shepherd's attire, the landlord perhaps little to lay up even for a single night in a tavern knowing that he had let £5000 slip through when the open countryside seemed to hold his fingers, the reward money on the head of better hope of concealment and eventual the Duke of Monmouth, now fleeing towards escape. No, this episode is perhaps best Poole and the safety of a ship after the ascribed to legend rather than factual history. shambles of Sedgemoor. But for all four, local guide Holiday, Grey and Buyse, the But, with the road becoming even busier sands of time were fast running out and only and Woodyates the first stage stop to change six miles tired and sweating westbound horses after The White Hart at Salisbury, the Inn presently moved to more commodious quarters across the road so that here, in June 1804, the Duke of Cambridge dined and made advance arrangements for George III to stay overnight M. G. CORDINA on his way to Weymouth for, even at this time, The Gloucester Lodge, looking out across the new-found delights of Weymouth ALL TYPES OF BUILDING Bay, was a full, twelve, dusty and WORK CARRIED OUT uncomfortable hours away even by Royal transport. Details finalised, the 24th August saw all the locals present when, with harness a-jingle, the 10th Dragoons escorted the Royal coach into the yard of the Inn, now known as The Shaftesbury Arms. It must, indeed, have been a thrilling spectacle for Dorset rustics, disrespectfully inclined to refer to their portly sovereign as "Varmer

Garge"!

Telephone – 01725 552310 ...continued next issue. Berwick Cottage 42 High Street Sixpenny Handley SALISBURY

7 The Downsman October 1997 Sixpenny Handley Flower Show

Against a backdrop of clear blue skies, the Annual Flower Show took place on August 16th.

There was a band, line-dancing, axe men, stalls, trade stands, vintage cars, an organ, teas, a multitude of attractions supplied by For the Kidz, fire-juggling, a dog show, and the grand marquee with the exhibits of flower, fruit, vegetables, crafts, cookery, honey, photography and many more delightful events. Notable amongst the exhibits was an impressive and prize winning pedestal arrangement by Liz Scriven, beautiful gladioli, and mouth-watering cookery from Mrs Wyn Judd.

The band played, the children had their faces painted, and many enjoyed the excellent cream teas in the Village Hall.

The day drew to a close with the traditional raffle and the auction of produce donated from the judged exhibits.

Amongst the many hardworking helpers to the committee were the W.I., Chase Community Friends, Homewatch, and Cricket Club At the end of the day it only remained for the committee, of which there were few, to clear the site and for the marquee to be dismantled.

The accounts are not yet finalised but it is hoped to have a result by the next issue. The 19th show was low on both entries and gate admission but for those who did attend it was a worthwhile and enjoyable few hours.

To all those who did attend – Thank You for Coming

Rhyme on Salisbury Cathedral

Fair Sarum’s Church, beside the stately tower, Hath many things in number aptly sorted, Answering the year, the month, week, day, and hour, But above all (as I have heard reported, And to the view doth probably appear) A pillar for each hour in the year.

8 The Downsman October 1997

Another Rhyme on Salisbury Cathedral

As many days as in one year there be, So many windows in this church you see, As many marble pillars here appear As there are hours through the fleeting year, As many gates as moons one here doth view: Strange tale to tell, yet not more strange than true.

Mid-way between Salisbury and Shaftesbury and convenient for the Chalke Valley and many villages such as Sixpenny Handley and Tollard Royal, Flying Start Nursery School offers a well balanced pre-school education for children aged 2½ to 5 years old. The nursery takes place in the excellent modern village hall and has a good outside play area and car parking.

· Qualified and experienced staff with a ratio of 1:6 · A large range of educational materials and play equipment · Exciting, well planned sessions in a loving and secure environment · Many Flying Start children are reading when they leave · The ideal confidence-boosting experience to prepare them for school.

For a brochure contact Claire Macdonald on 01747 829085, or call into the Ebbesbourne Wake Village Hall Monday to Friday 9.15 - 12.15.

Excellent end of term report!

Ebbesbourne Wake Flying Start Nursery School has just received a marvellous “Ofsted” report following its inspection last term. The inspector praised our happy and stimulating learning environment and our programme of well-organised and stimulating activities. Mathematics is described as a strength, language & literacy sound and creative work excellent. We are proud of our nursery school and work hard to provide an excellent nursery education for children in Ebbesbourne, Handley & the Chalk Valley. All our children go to school well prepared & confident and many are reading. We are happy to show parents round any time to show them our happy and productive environment.

9 The Downsman October 1997

full and in total honesty. However as no one will actually ask me directly, I felt I would like to address them in this letter.

Dear Editor “I thought it was just Bronia – have they got FOR THE KIDZ a committee then?” Oh how I wish I were a fairy godmother with I felt that it is time I gave you all a progress a magic wand, because that is the only way I report on our fundraising efforts for the new could possible have raised such a fantastic children’s playarea that we hope to supply for amount of money on my own. Of course there our Parish children. We now have a fantastic is a committee, and if I have to say it myself total of £6282.61. - a sum which less than a they are the cream of the crop, so by way of year ago was well beyond my wildest dreams. introduction I detail below the members. This can only be attributed to my All of these people have been invaluable over exceptionally hardworking Committee, all the the past year and all have given me their total helpers and the sheer generosity by so many dedication to our aim. of you. Also the donations gratefully received both privately and from many businesses that “What I’d like to know, where’s all the we have approached on our children’s behalf, money then?” have been both a boost to our moral as well as All that we have raised to date is in an our bank balance. account in the name of ‘For The Kidz Sixpenny Handley’ in the Midland Bank. I know many of you appreciate how hard we After each event a full project statement is have worked running Stalls, Bingo, Bonfire made out, all expenses are paid and our Night, Christmas Party, Sponsored Walk, treasurer Mr Sims deposits the full amount of Line Dancing, Jumble Sale etc etc as well as profit in the High Interest account we hold in sitting for hours knitting little mice - over that name. We also hold a small amount in a 500 have been made to date. current account from which the only cheque paid out to date was for public liabilities It upsets me to say that just recently a few insurance, which has been taken out to nasty comments have been made in the safeguard everyone who attends our fund village. Questions raised that if they had been raising events. asked of myself or anyone on the For The Kidz committee would have been answered in “How much is this play area going to cost

For The Kidz Committee Bronia Styles Chairman Founder of For The Kidz Tanya Symes Vice Chairman Sixpenny Handley School Governor Michelle Daniels Secretary Vice Chairman of Village Hall Play Group Assistant Leader Charles Sims Treasurer Parish Councillor Jane Orman One of the organisers of the 1992 fire celebrations Hazel Killeen Playgroup Leader Susan Parsons Happy Nappy Treasurer Playgroup Committee Member Christopher Styles Parish Councillor Julia Collins Teacher Phil Potter Seni10or member of the Intensive Care Unit – Salisbury District Hospital The Downsman October 1997 then, surely you’ve got enough now?” show and not enter as they felt that our group A decent playground with safety surface built already had sufficient monies. I can’t believe to new European standards (This is the legal there are residents in the Sixpenny Handley requirement for use by general public) will parish that could be so unkind and who would cost at least £30,000. In my talks with cut off their noses to spite the faces of the Councils etc I have learned that it is expected little children. OUR LITTLE CHILDREN. I that the Parish raise at least one quarter of this would like to add that myself, my personal money, before the powers that be look friends and the For the Kidz Committee favourably on people applying for grants. worked extremely hard alongside the Flower Show Committee to help make the day the “Where’s it going to be then?” best we could for the whole village. My We are trying very hard to acquire a piece of friend Angie Dawson ran the Dog Show, we land at the bottom of the village. We arranged Line Dancing, prizes for the understand that the playarea in the Sports children’s races, organised the Roman complex needs refurbishment and believe me Soldiers, the splendid Pets Corner aided by it’s not in the back of our minds. We hope at Mrs Helen Brooks, Rob Jesse, Mrs some stage to help the Parish Council make Montefiore and Paul Styles. We made clown this a much nicer playarea too. However we costumes at our own expense, provided feel strongly that most of the small children Tombola, Teddy Bear Stall, Bric a Brac, Ice seem to live in Dean Lane and the lower end cream, Stocks, Face Painting, Ferret Racing, of the village – nearly all with tiny gardens Cakes, Plants and produce. All these were run and therefore the most urgent need is there. by our committee with much appreciated help We have approached Savills Estate Managers from our friends and families. As a result of for Mr. Michael Pitt Rivers and they are our efforts we were able to donate £40 to the doing all that they can to help us. I promise I Flower Show Fund. will give you full details when I have them. We also ran the evening Line Dancing with a Is this all the ‘For the Kidz’ are going to BBQ organised by Rob Jesse and David do?” Salmons, the profits from this event being No! When the For the Kidz was first formed split with the Village Hall. we decided our aim was to supply a safe clean and exciting place for our younger So come on all you grown up people, you’ve children to play, but we often discuss the got your own playarea that must be the best desperate needs of our young teenage of any Dorset village, and although we are a community. We hope to carry on to help them dedicated crew, who are determined to reach and to support all of our KIDZ in whatever our goal WE NEED to be able to rely on all way we can. of your wholehearted support.

Lastly I have heard some most upsetting Our Annual General Meeting is on 23rd comments about the Flower Show. It was October 1997 at the Committee Room, agreed at the first Flower Show meeting that Village Hall at 8 pm. If you have any further this year’s good causes would be For The questions or if you feel you could help in any Kidz, together with the Village Hall way, however small, please, please come refurbishment fund. The For The Kidz along. We would love to see you. committee would in return donate 10% of our profits made on the day to the Flower Show Yours most sincerely Committee. Bronia Styles I was very disappointed to hear through the grapevine that a small minority of people felt that because For the Kidz would get a donation from this event they would avoid the

11 The Downsman October 1997 NOTES FROM RSPB GARSTON WOOD

With the summer nearly over it is time to middle period there were many losses. plan the winter programme of coppicing Today, on our early morning walk, I was and to put in a plea for help! amazed to hear a chiffchaff in full song in The wood is largely the middle of September: As very maintained by the work of few even winter in our volunteers and once again area this took us somewhat we are seeking the by surprise, a breath of spring assistance of anyone who in autumn! can spare some time Another strange situation came to my on a notice last week when we were asked to care for a young female kestrel, which had been Wednesday or Sunday hit by a car on the Bowerchalke road to cut trees, build or lay near Garston. When we took the bird to fences and generally get involved in the Wessex Wildlife Hospital in Lytchett restoring this ancient woodland. The work Matravers it became apparent that the bird is vital and is also very rewarding, was very hungry and extremely thin, as suitable for any age or level of fitness: well as concussed and bruised. As there Training is given under the supervision of are relatively few kestrels in this area at Jack Edwards, the RSPB warden present and thousands of possible prey, it responsible. If you can spare some time, seems odd that she should be so short of we meet at 9.30a.m. in the car park. Bring food. The bird was carrying a BTO ring a packed lunch if you can stay all day but and research is currently taking place to a shorter time is just as acceptable. Gloves find out where she came from and when and tools are provided but please bring she hatched. The hospital report that she suitable clothing and footwear. Transport is recovering well and we hope to return can be arranged if necessary, by Tony her to the correct territory in due course. Goddard, RSPB Group Leader, Tel: The hospital, based largely in Mrs 01725 510309. Everest’s kitchen, deals with all kinds of The dates are shown on wildlife and is supported purely by the facing page. donations. Their local council is hoping to The season finishes find permanent premises quite on the 22nd March soon but any assistance with with a lunchtime finance, food or barbecue. fundraising would be very welcome. The telephone number is This has been a strange 01202 621288. year for breeding birds with very mixed Environmental issues success for most species continue to interest the depending on the weather at the time public and the RSPB has at last passed the chicks were in the nest. Reports from all one million members milestone. Their over the country confirms that heavy rain work with governments, industry and and cold killed many fledglings quite late landowners continues with many new in the spring and early summer. The early initiatives, all aiming for a policy which and late breeders did very well but in the will ensure our children have a

12 The Downsman October 1997

countryside to enjoy in the future, but more of that news next Downsman. David Tucker

Come along and help us! Wednesdays Sundays

1st October 5th October 22nd October 26th October 5th November 16th November 26th November 30th November 7th January 28th December 28th January 11th January 25th February 15th February 11th March 1st March 2nd March

The season finishes on the 22nd March with a lunchtime barbecue

Anne Reed, B.A., M.C.S.P., S.R.P.

Chartered and State Registered Physiotherapist

Treatment for Sports Injuries, Spinal and Neck Pain, Arthritis, Headaches

Acupuncture, Ergonomic Advice, Massage Home Visits and Evening Appointments

Telephone: 01725 552518

13 The Downsman October 1997

How would you like to enjoy a fun packed morning of exciting activities? ……..and let your mum play with people her own age for a change?

Well, come along to the Village Hall to join in on Monday mornings, during school term, between 10 and 11:30am.

We have toys for the young ones, friendly chat for the adults and delicious refreshments for all…. plus special events and outings.

Everyone is welcome – Babies, toddlers and children under school age. Only £1.40 per visit per family.

Phone Penny on 552024 for more information.

Happy Nappy Club – Sixpenny Handley Village Hall

WHIST AT THE VILLAGE HALL COMMENCES 7:30pm CHRISTMAS DRIVE

Wednesday 1st October Saturday 13th December --- " --- 15th October --- " --- 29th October --- " --- 12th November --- " --- 26th November

14 The Downsman October 1997

ENGLISH VILLAGE OR Your Village Hall needs repairs TOWN and refurbishment to bring it up to GOVERNMENT modern standards. Please support the Management (Parish or Town Councils) Committee in their efforts to raise funds. ...continued from previous issue. Support it or lose it!!! What Powers have Parish Councils to do things for their areas? are in the interests of the parish or its Parish councils have more formal powers inhabitants, and many kinds of village to do things than are often suspected. enterprises are aided in this way. Nearly 2,000 light their streets. Many more provide allotments. Still more look How much do they cost? after playing fields, village greens and other ways of getting exercise such as Parish councils are the most un- swimming pools. They have a hand in bureaucratic and the cheapest kind of communications by maintaining or local authority in existence. Their funds guarding such things as rights of way, bus are a tiny part of the rates: they get no shelters and public seats; a very important general government grant: so they have thing in which they are concerned is the every incentive to keep expenditures low provision of halls and meeting places. and economical.

How do they do it? WHAT ELSE IS IMPORTANT?

The parish council can do these things by The parish councillors know the village actually providing them itself or by and can represent its views to other helping someone else (such as a volunteer authorities like the District Council, the or a charity) financially to do them. County Council, Health Authorities, and Parish councils thrive on volunteers. to Ministries. They are entitled to be consulted on planning applications and What else do they do? are often consulted on such things as schools and roads. They put the parish's Plenty of things. Some provide village case at public inquiries. guides or leaflets to newcomers, or help the Meals on Wheels system, or a local Who controls the Parish Council? bus service. They make village surveys. At least one runs a holiday hotel. Many You elect its members every four years. provide car or cycle parks. Others The accounts are strictly audited every provide public conveniences, litter bins year. and seats, and can prosecute noisemakers The Parish Councils' Meetings are open or litter bugs. Many appoint charitable to the public, and an assembly of the trustees and school managers. Very often Parish Meeting for all the parish electors the Parish Council manages the cemetery. has by law to be held every year in They have the power to improve the March, April or May. quality of village life by spending sums of money on things which, in their opinion,

15 The Downsman October 1997

policing of rural areas, including our own. Sixpenny

Handley Reckless Youths

Homewatch The most serious incident of the summer was potentially life threatening. A group of youths threw a stone through the open sunroof of a car driving through the bottom of the village, causing the driver to swerve. Fortunately no other vehicles were involved and damage to both driver and car was slight. Nevertheless, this alarming incident was immediately reported to the Police who acted promptly, cautioning two boys.

There have been other reported crimes; a break-in in Deanland and a spate of thefts of hanging baskets, garden ornaments and Police resources furniture. Please remember to report all incidents, however trivial, to the Police Homewatch Co-ordinators recently had a and to Homewatch Co-ordinators, as the satisfactory meeting with the new senior information is important in assessing officer for the Blandford Section of crime patterns. Dorset Police, Inspector Stone. Whilst confirming how tight the budgets are for rural policing, the Inspector spelt out You Are In! various moves being taken to improve the service: Some newcomers to the village have been asking us how to ‘join’ the Homewatch WPC Alison Gadd is back as Detached scheme, so this is a good time to remind Beat Officer for the North Dorset villages, people of the Sixpenny Handley system. with responsibility for Homewatch liaison Unlike many schemes, we operate on the and community affairs. From April next principle that all parishioners belong to year, the Blandford Section will become the Homewatch unless they particularly part of the Christchurch Division, tell us they don’t want to. What does this controlled from the new headquarters at mean? Essentially it simply involves Ferndown. This is expected to improve everyone being vigilant for the wellbeing policing generally. Best of all, perhaps, of our community as a whole. Dorset Police are shortly to get their own rapid response helicopter, based only ten We have Homewatch Area Sub-Co- minutes flying time from us. (The police ordinators for each part of the Parish. helicopters you may have seen recently These are the people who kindly go out of have had to be ‘borrowed’ from other their way to deliver The Downsman to more distant forces). All in all, it looks as you, as it is our main means of if thought and care is being given to the communication.

16 The Downsman October 1997

They are also the folk to whom you should report any incident or suspicious JUMBLE SALE behaviour so they can pass it on to others. There will be a Jumble Sale at The Area Co-ordinators (listed in the th Parish Directory- see inside front cover), 2:30pm on 11 October together with our Overall Co-ordinator, in the Village Hall.

John Curtis, ensure proper liaison with the All the usual stalls Police and adjacent Homewatch schemes. Jumble – Cake – Toys – Nearly New It is a simple system and the relatively Tombola – Raffle – Plants – Teas very low crime rate locally seems to

suggest that it works. Any donations for the above stalls will be very welcome, either at the hall from 10am or for collection phone: Stella (552236) or Pat (552591).

Proceeds in aid of the Village

Sixpenny Handley Stores & Post Office

Fresh Fruit & Vegetables Daily Bread & Cakes from Local Bakery Sixpenny Handley Groceries – Whole Foods Parish Council Frozen Foods Wide Selection of Cards A COAL CLEANER Bird Nuts, Rabbit Food etc. Tel:- Liz on 01725 552827 required for the New Sports Pavillion ************* Electricity Key Meters Charged Initially 3 Hours per week Electricity Savings Stamps now available Interested persons please apply in Car Road Tax Renewals writing, Television Licence Payments by 15th October, Travellers Cheques & Foreign to Currency The Clerk to the Council, All Normal Post Office Services 44 Sheasby Close, Sixpenny Handley Rural Post Offices are under threat Use it or risk losing it!

17 The Downsman October 1997

STAR INN FREE HOUSE Sixpenny Handley, off A354

REAL ALES, FRIENDLY ATMOSPHERE AND TASTY HOME COOKING.

OPEN ALL DAY SATURDAY AND SUNDAY.

A REAL OLD COUNTRY PUB IN A LOVELY DORSET VILLAGE

CLOSED TUESDAY LUNCH ONLY.

LOUNGE BAR AVAILABLE FOR PRIVATE PARTIES

TO BOOK SUNDAY ROAST PHONE LINDA ON 01725 552272

OUTSIDE FUNCTIONS CATERED FOR

18 The Downsman October 1997

SIXPENNY HANDLEY BOWLS CLUB Bookings are starting to come in from touring clubs for 1998, which will be What a lovely Indian something to look forward to. Summer we are having at the We haven’t won many outdoor matches moment. Please let it this Season, but as most of our members continue for a few had never played on grass or long greens more weeks as six before, it was to be a Season of out of our eight experience rather than success. competitions have been finalised but two are still Our second Quiz Evening was again very outstanding – now that Autumn holidays successful – less tables due to holidays, are starting it is difficult finding dates but everyone still enjoyed themselves. The date of the third one has now been that suit everyone. th fixed – December 6 (a special Christmas Our outdoor friendly matches have now one). come to a close, but with this weather members can still play outside. There is Thank you all for your support at our no reason for not being able to play Annual Jumble Sale, which had to have a outside in any weather really, but as we change of date at the last moment due to have our indoor facilities as well, we Princess Diana’s funeral. have the best of both worlds. Gill Martin

SUMMERLOCK Chris Wadge Clocks Partners: C.J.Wadge P.J.Wadge UPHOLSTERY ANNIVERSARY CLOCK SPECIALIST Church Farm Workshop Sixpenny Handley 83 Fisherton Street SALISBURY SALISBURY SP2 7ST

Tel: 01725 552333 Fax: 01725 552333 Tel/Fax 01722 334467 FOR Or ring Handley (01725) 552455

RE-UPHOLSTERY ANTIQUE AND MODERN WATCH & CLOCK REPAIRS CURTAINS Loose Covers Sales and Spares

COLLECTION & DELIVERY

VERTICAL & VENETIAN CLOCKS BOUGHT & SOLD BLINDS CLOSED ON MONDAYS Carpets Supplied & Fitted

19 The Downsman October 1997

DORSET BEST KEPT VILLAGE COMPETITION 1997

Pentridge and Chase Community Friends Win Awards The annual prizegiving for the Dorset with a cheque for £50 for their funds. Ms Best Kept Village competition was held at Lois Ray, Dorset Community Action, Fontmell Magna Village Hall on spoke for a couple of minutes to the Thursday 25th September. audience about the activities and What an exciting evening it turned out to commitment by the Chase Community be for our parishes. Friends and was extremely The evening started with a short complimentary. introduction to the competition by one of the judges Mrs Eileen Bryan (District Councillor for West Dorset). This was followed by a short talk by Mrs Mary Norman of the International Tree Foundation who proceeded to announce the winners of the environmental prizes. Much to our joy the village of Pentridge was awarded the District Council Environmental Prize and our representative accepted a cheque for £50 on their behalf from the Chairman of EDDC.

The evening continued with a slide show by Colonel Terry Parsons, Chairman Dorset CPRE, with pictures taken during their visits to the 39 villages entered in the main competition. Amongst the slides was one of the Sixpenny Handley recycling area and the village was complimented on the siting of this facility, hidden away, as it is, from the main thoroughfare.

Following this show the prizes were awarded for the Vital Villages section of the competition. This section encompassed village activities and their impact on the community. The best kept village award followed and was won by Fontmell Magna and they In the highlight of the evening for will go forward into the national Sixpenny Handley your representative competition. was delighted to accept on behalf of Chase Community Friends the County The judges will be issuing their comments Award for the Best Individual on the villages that entered and we will Community Initiative 1997 together report these in our next edition.

20 The Downsman October 1997

Geraldine and myself thoroughly enjoyed the evening at the Best Kept Village awards OXFORD ceremony and it was an honour to accept the awards for both Pentridge and Chase Community Friends. Carpentry and Building of Blandford The people of Pentridge and Alec Hunt and his team at the Friends should all be extremely proud of their efforts and the fact New Houses that these have been recognised throughout the county. Extensions

The Pentridge award was handed to their Parish Councillor Mr C F Sims at the end of Refurbishments the Parish Council meeting on 25th September.

The Parish Council will arrange for an official presentation to Chase Community Friends of their certificate by the Chairman of the Council.

Congratulations to everybody involved in achieving both awards.

Editor.

Election of a District Councillor Sixpenny Handley Ward 18th September 1997

The result of the poll for the position of District Councillor for the Sixpenny Handley ward was: -

Russell Bennett (Conservative) 213 votes Norma Hayes (Labour) 12 votes Alan Humphries (Liberal Democrat) 412 votes Call Peter Oxford

Electorate: 1356 Ballot papers issued 637 01258 459222 Turnout 47%

Alan John Humphries was elected as District Councillor for the

21 The Downsman October 1997

CHASE COMMUNITY FRIENDS

The CCF offer voluntary support to those who need it, within the villages.

In the form of :-

Transport to the Surgery, Dentist, etc, with an appropriate contribution from the user of 25p per mile, to cover petrol costs.

Collection of prescriptions - local shopping for the house bound.

Emergency garden care - child sitting - dog walking.

We hold regular Social Day Centres, at Sixpenny Handley village hall, and weekly Coffee Mornings at the back bar of the Roebuck Inn, Sixpenny Handley. Thursday mornings 10 30am- 12 midday.

So come along and make new friends, or play cards- bridge etc.

Anyone interested in Jig Saw puzzles? to borrow or to lend, contact Peggy Jones on 01725 552377.

For any information concerning Chase Community Friends,

Please contact CCF co-ordinator, Margaret Pendrigh on 01725 552510.

New volunteers always most welcome.

THE HISTORY OF ST GEORGE’S CHAPEL, WINDSOR

BY Mrs G Garrett MONDAY 13TH OCTOBER AT 7.30 PM In THE VILLAGE HALL

Your Hosts: Sixpenny Handley W.I.

22 The Downsman October 1997

23 The Downsman October 1997

IMPROVING THE COUNTRYSIDE?

Back packers completing wilderness camping trips in the U.S were asked to suggest improvements in the environment. Below we give some of the responses.

Perhaps our own officials would take some of these comments on board to improve the Dorset countryside?

Footpath Liaison Officers.

"Escalators would help on steep uphill sections" "Trails need to be wider so people can walk while holding hands" "Trails need to be reconstructed. Please avoid building trails that go uphill" "Please pave the trails so they can be ploughed of snow in the winter" "Reflectors need to be placed on trees every 50 feet so people can hike at night with flashlights" "The places where trails do not exist are not well marked"

Countryside Rangers

"A small deer came into my camp and stole my bag of pickles. Is there a way I can get reimbursed?" "Ban walking sticks in wilderness. Hikers that use walking sticks are more likely to chase animals" "Found a smouldering cigarette left by a horse" "Too many bugs, leeches, spiders and spiders webs. Please spray the wilderness to rid the area of these pests" "The coyotes made too much noise last night and kept me awake. Please eradicate these annoying animals"

Parish Council Planning Committee

"Instead of a permit system or regulations, the Forest service needs to reduce world- wide population growth to limit the number of visitors to the wilderness" "Chairlifts need to be in some places so that we can get to wonderful views without having to hike to them" "Too many rocks in the mountains" "Need more signs to keep area pristine" "A McDonalds would be nice at the trailhead"

Submitted by John Bennett, Sycamore Close

24 The Downsman October 1997

Our Play and Learn Van is based on the east side of Dorset. It is a FREE weekly lending service for pre-school children 0 – 5 years, visiting rural school areas, villages and homes.

The van is stocked with a wide range of pre-school equipment.

We have pre-reading and pre- number games, sorting, matching, colour recognition and activities that will help your child prepare for school.

Come and visit us soon and we will show you round the van.

For further information ask your School/Playgroup/Mother and Toddler Group, or ring Jenny Hargrave on 01202 849248

EVERY THURSDAY DURING TERM TIME 8:30 am – 9:15 am. On Sixpenny Handley School Playground 9:15 am – 10:00 am outside the Village Hall

25 The Downsman October 1997

“The Seeker” is the Church magazine for the combined parishes of Sixpenny Handley and Pentridge. It gives details of all Church Services and Church activities. If you would like “The Seeker” delivered to you, please get in touch with Dr. Zoe Harris – see

WHO’S WHO

The Vicar The Rev. Ron Wood, The Vicarage, Sixpenny Handley 552608

Churchwardens (St. Mary’s with Gussage St. Andrew) Mr. David Salmons, 4 Wyke Cottages, Wimborne St. Giles 552721 Mrs. Jeannie Brown, Dean Farm, Woodcutts 552438 Mr. Graham Smith, 25 Paddock Close, Sixpenny Handley 552149

Churchwardens (St. Rumbold’s Pentridge) Mrs. Jane King, Pentridge House, Pentridge 552231 Mrs. Jean Longley, Orchard House, Pentridge 552703

Lay Pastoral Assistants Mrs. Wendie Everall (Youth and Sunday School) 552843 Mr. Haydn Everall (Youth and Sunday School) Mistleberry Cottage, Newtown 552843 Mrs. Jean Mayne, 6 St. Mary’s Court, Sixpenny Handley 552692 Mrs. Pamela Wood, The Vicarage, Sixpenny Handley 552608

Seeker Distribution Dr. Zoe Harris, 16 St. Mary’s Court, Sixpenny Handley 552430 50/50 SALE CHRISTMAS IS COMING Have you got any good items you want to sell at a fair price? And Christians begin to prepare on Advent If so, then enter them in the 50/50 Sale at the th Grand Winter Bazaar at the Village Hall on Sunday, which this year is November 30 . the 15th November. At 6:00pm, Sunday Night Live! Will be a YOU set the price, and get half the proceeds. different sort of service, with a mixture of Any item entered before the sale will be put music, comedy, readings and songs to help on the advance pubilicity. you prepare for Christmas. Admission is free, but there will be a collection. And there will be refreshments afterwards. For more information Put it in your diary NOW! phone 01725 552149

26 The Downsman October 1997

CHRISTMAS SHOW 1997

We are planning to have a Christmas Stage Show on Saturday 22nd November in the Village Hall. If you or a group of you would like to take part in this show please contact me as quickly as you can. The proceeds from this event will be to help with the costs of staging the panto plus a percentage for the Village Hall.

THE PANTOMIME "CINDERELLA"

Cinderella will be staged in the Village Hall for three nights during the February School Half Term. I will be holding further auditions on Monday 13th October in the Lounge Bar of the Star Inn commencing at 7pm. The auditions are for any main parts not yet filled and for extras. Adults and Children are both needed. Volunteers to form the stage crew are also required and should come along on the 13th October as well. The cost of staging this pantomime could exceed £500, so if anyone can help by donating suitable clothing for the costumes, timber for the scenery, printing of admission tickets etc. to help reduce these costs we would be most grateful. If you can help please contact me.

S.H.E.D.D.S. ROEBUCK BINGO - EVERY FORTNIGHT - EVERYBODY WELCOME

The dates for 1997 are 2nd, 16th & 30th October, 13th & 27th November 11th December (this will be our Christmas Bingo). Our 1st Session for 1998 will be 8th January and continuing fortnightly. New Players Always Welcome.

OTHER FORTHCOMING EVENTS

Fri 31st October - Halloween Fancy Dress Party at the Star Inn Sat 22nd November - Christmas Show Sat 20th December - Father Christmas will be at the Star Inn Sat 27th December - Christmas Break Disco at the Star Inn Wed 31st December - New Years Party at the Star Inn February Half Term - Cinderella Pantomime (2 or 3 nights) Date to be fixed - 1998 Carnival Queen/Princess Selection Sat 20th June 1998 - Midsummer Street Fayre and Carnival

Godfrey J. Turner - Chairman S.H.E.D.D.S. - Tel: 552533 (Evenings Only)

27 The Downsman October 1997

David Hunt The Workshop Dean Lane Sixpenny Handley Flower Show Sixpenny Handley Tel: 01725 552655

Do you have a spare hour – once every two months?

General servicing of all makes of Could you contribute to the success car of next year’s show? Free M.O.T. Checks Exhaust fitting Accident damage repairs Come to an open evening on General Bodywork Monday 13th October in the Diesel Car Repairs

Pavillion No job ever too small or too big At 8 pm Enjoy a coffee and see if you could

help in 1998

No age limit FREE All are welcome Quotes will be given on request (without obligation) Opening Hours Mon – Fri 7:30am – 7:30pm Saturday 7:30am – 4:30pm

MOTHER’S UNION

Mothers’ Union began our 97/98 programme with a celebration of Holy Communion in Church followed by tea at the Vicarage.

We shall then continue to meet throughout the year on the second Thursday of each month in the afternoon. The programme for the current season includes a slide show on the Royal Mummies of Egypt, talks on the work of an Army Chaplain and on Mother Teresa and the Sisters of Charity. If you would like to see our full programmes or to come along as a guest to any particular meeting please contact either Pam on 552608 or Jean on 552692.

You will be made very welcome!

28 The Downsman October 1997 A VIEW FROM WOODYATES

One of the joys of early morning walks at this time of year is the sight of literally hundreds of cobwebs along the footpaths and bridleways, especially on one of those misty dawns when a watery sun almost succeeds in penetrating the milky scene. The shape and design of some of these structures is quite amazing; but the most fascinating thing of all is the single thread of silk that stretches 6 yards across a track, sometimes at a height of 8 feet, from one tall hedgerow shrub to another. How a tiny insect can produce such a thin thread to cross that distance is beyond me.

The efforts of a spider brings me to the decision by the East Dorset Planning Committee to refuse the planning application for a telecommunications mast at Cobley Farm. This was based mainly on the fact that the proposed development would represent an alien structure, in an otherwise natural setting and would be contrary to the Local Plan and one of the primary objectives of the AONB, i.e. the conservation and enhancement of the natural beauty and character of the area. If this reason can be given by East Dorset District Council for refusing the plan then there must be questions to be asked of Salisbury District Council over its decision to grant permission for the Verditch mast. Or is it just convenient for planning committees to use the AONB as an excuse only when it suits their purposes?

And talking of AONBS, I was lucky enough to be given a copy of the East Dorset District Council's Land Assessment document on the part of Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty which lies within its area of responsibility. It divides this region into several zones, the first of which is entitled "Chalk " and includes the settlements of Sixpenny Handley, Pentridge and Woodyates, each of which is given a separate section in the document. The zonal area for Woodyates is described as follows: - "Contained by farming land, this tiny zone embraces the hamlet of Woodyates. Unlike most Chase villages, the settlement lies on elevated land close to the main A354. This is on account of the celebrated Woodyates Inn, a regular meeting place of Chase landowners, located as it was on the eighteenth -century Great Western Turnpike. It was here that George III liked to break his journey between London and Weymouth..... The historic core of the village, centred on Manor Farm, is set amongst trees that reinforce the strong sense of enclosure as well as providing valuable shelter. To the north of Woodyates the lane rises gradually and continuously towards the Ox Drove, passing Cobley Manor that overlooks an otherwise remote and almost primeval landscape of woods and enclosures. The area is littered with ancient earthworks, though their impact on the landscape is limited." I will refer again to the document in future issues.

It is probably one of those strange anomalies of Local Government Organisation but I was staggered to discover that, under tax band "D", the Parish of Pentridge is now the highest council- taxed parish in the whole of East Dorset, and the second highest council-taxed area in the District. Only the tax-paying residents of Wimborne Town pay more. And, since East Dorset is the highest taxing District Council in Dorset, I can only assume that the tax-paying resident of this parish pays comparably more council tax than any other parish resident in the whole of Dorset. Although the difference can be measured in terms of a few pounds, it is a league table position, which Pentridge does not deserve. It is almost as bad as discovering that members of the District Council cost the taxpayer £600,000 a year, an average of over £16,000 a year per elected member. When a parish councillor costs nothing, what is the justification for this huge expenditure on a District Councillor?

Ian Davies

29 The Downsman October 1997

CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU AT SIXPENNY HANDLEY SURGERY Tuesdays 9:30am – 12:00 noon Christine Pacey

NO MATTER WHO YOU ARE OR WHAT YOUR ENQUIRY IS WE WILL TRY AND HELP COST? – Free

FOR YOU? For everyone, regardless of class, race, sex, sexuality, culture, income or benefits.

· We will not tell anyone unless you say so · We don’t judge or blame · We will not be influenced by outside interests or views · Financial Problems · Preliminary Debt Counselling · Employment Issues · Housing Related Problems · Family Breakdown · Issues relating to being a Carer · Issues related to Community Care

Domiciliary appointments available HOT NEWS – Meals on Wheels comes to Sixpenny Handley Contact surgery for details CAB: ADVICE THAT MAKES THE DIFFERENCE

30 The Downsman October 1997

Sixpenny Handley First School News

Children at Sixpenny Handley First School have particular cause for keeping an eye on the Autumn weather as they eagerly look forward to the new term's sporting activities.

A new class of would-be tennis stars now take up their racquets, under the expert guidance of our qualified coach, Mrs. Roni Peck, for a new season of short tennis.

We are indeed fortunate in being able to make use of the new village courts, in such close proximity, and hope to extend our 'season' as long as weather permits this term, and to re-commence next year, in good time for Wimbledon!

Successfully piloted last term, short tennis has proved an exciting new focus in PE, and immensely popular with all participants. As well as providing an excellent context for improving ball skills and physical control, it offers an important early training towards future sporting opportunities.

Further excitement will no doubt be caused in the next four weeks by the weekly arrival of the ‘Action Van’. This sporting initiative is provided by the Local Authority with the aim of introducing children to a wide variety of sporting activities and providing equipment for a range of games and skills. We look forward to this mobile ‘box of delights’.

Together with the whole school’s participation in the Youth Sport Trust's new ‘Top Play’ scheme, these activities will help to convey the message that Physical Education can not only lead on to ‘fitness for life’, but is also fun!

HANDLEY GARAGE Telephone – 01725 552134

ALL YOUR CAR NEEDS M.O.T. TESTING NOW IN YOUR VILLAGE SERVICING BODYWORK PARTS SERVICE & SHOP Number Plates

Opening Hours Mon. to Sat. 8am to 6pm Sunday 11am to 1pm

31 The Downsman October 1997

s the season draws the winter with participation to a close it is time in the Salisbury and District NEWS to look back on the Indoor Cricket League. This year and look is a six-a-side game and ANNUAL AGM Aforward to next year. This matches last 1 hour. The season has had its ups and pace is fast and furious and downs. Sixpenny Handley is very enjoyable both to The Club’s AGM is to Cricket Club has increased its play and watch. If you are be held in the Pavilion membership to record levels but interested in joining the th unfortunately it was not Club, for either Friendly, on November 6 , 7.00 possible to field a full team in league or indoor matches for 7.30. Members are the Salisbury and District then contact:-Robert reminded that this is Saturday League. Consequently Hammond-Smith on their oportunity to the team had to pull out after a 552691 couple of games. Hopefully as or determine how the membership increases we will Neil Bowes on 552416. Club is run, Please be able to return to league make every effort to cricket in the near future. Cricket continues throughout attend. If you wish to stand for any of the elected posts please EVENING LEAGUE could you let a committee member know by November 1. ixpenny Handley must also be competed for the made of the bowlers. A. second year in the Bennett (18 wickets); J. Keen If anybody is S Old Sarum Invitation (13) and J. Cray (11) were the interested to know League. After a disappointing best three bowlers although first year the team went from all players who bowled more about the Club strength to strength. The throughout the season did so they are also invited to batting was led by T. Edwards exceedingly well conceding, attend. We are always who had a tremendous season. on average, 4.8 runs per over. keen to have more With two 50’s and two scores A summary of the season is in the 40’s from 12 innings he given below. members of any boosted the side’s confidence Congratulations must be standard. and also set some high targets given to all who took part in Junior Coaching has for the opposition. The batting winning the now finished for 1997 was supported by A. Bennett Club’s first and S. Goodwin who had major trophy. but will be starting three and two scores in the again next summer. 40’s respectively during the Thank you to all those season. Batting is not the only part of a match and mention who attended.

32 The Downsman October 1997

FRIENDLY MATCHES

n addition to the Evening matches a full season of friendly matches was played on Sunday afternoons. Weather was kind and only one or two matches were postponed. T. Edwards also shone with the bat in these matches scoring the first century for the club with a magnificent 105 against Dewlish. Added Ito this were 4 other scores above 50. Other notable scores were of 72 vs. Broadchalke and 70 vs. The Edwards by A. Wright, 47 by N. Fradgely vs. Rockborne and 43 by C. Churchill vs. Old Eldonians.

Other batting had improved with only 27 ducks from 172 being recorded during the whole season as opposed to 34 in 1996 from 167 innings and 34 from 171 innings in 1995. As far as bowling is concerned it has always been the better part of Sixpenny Handley’s game. With the batting improving this gave the bowlers more confidence and the team much more chance of winning. C. Spendley led the way taking 21 wickets including career best figures of 5-27. Other notable bowling performances were 5-13, B Johnson vs. Wincanton 4-31, C. Churchill vs. Amesbury and 4-10, C Spendley vs. Pyt House. Combined with the bowling much improved fielding enabled Sixpenny Handley to have one of their most enjoyable seasons so far.

RESULTS

OPPONENTS RESULT OPPONENTS RESULT BOSCOMBE WON BY 111 RUNS GILLINGHAM II LOST BY 5 WKTS SALISBURY POLICE LOST BY 27 RUNS PHOENIX LOST BY 32 RUNS SOUTH NEWTON WON BY 6 RUNS DEWLISH WON BY 7 RUNS MOONRAKERS WON BY 7 WKTS ALDERHOLT LOST BY 8 WKTS FOVANT WON BY 34 RUNS OLD ELDONIANS LOST BY 31 RUNS STEEPLE LANGFORD WON BY48 RUNS AMESBURY LOST BY 6 WKTS BOSCOMBE WON BY 8 RUNS WINCANTON LOST BY 10 WKTS FOVANT LOST BY 7 RUNS ROCKBOURNE WON BY 83 RUNS SOUTH NEWTON WON BY 7 WKTS PYT HOUSE WON BY 104 RUNS LAVERSTOCK WON BY 5 WKTS S.H. OLDIES MATCH TIED MOONRAKERS WON BY 8 WKTS COOMBE BISSETT LOST BY 98 RUNS SHROTON LOST BY 15 RUNS THE EDWARDS WON BY 3 WKTS WITHERIDGE WON BY 5 WKTS MOONRAKERS WON BY 3 WKTS BROADCHALKE LOST BY 7 WKTS WINCANTON WON BY 1 WKT GILLINGHAM LOST BY 111 RUNS

33 The Downsman October 1997 SIXFRPIENDLYENNY HAMNATCDLEHESY CR IC KET CLU B SE ASO N’S AVER AGE S NAME MATCHES INN. RUN AVE. O M EX RUNS W RUN AVE A. Wright 6 6 191 38.200 0 0 0 0 B. Johnson 4 4 17 5.667 27.0 1 6 127 6 4.704 21.167 C. Churchill 9 9 102 11.333 6.0 0 0 26 4 4.333 6.500 C. Spendley 13 13 119 10.818 92.2 14 8 352 21 3.812 16.762 C. Williams 2 1 0 0.000 2.0 1 0 3 0 1.500 D. Slater 9 9 111 13.875 63.0 6 40 291 8 4.619 36.375 I. Davies 5 4 5 1.250 3.0 0 0 16 1 5.333 16.000 I. Potter 12 11 94 11.750 58.0 6 10 248 7 4.276 35.429 M. Green 6 6 18 3.000 10.0 0 0 69 0 6.900 N. Bowes 12 11 108 9.818 7.3 0 9 50 2 6.667 25.000 N. Bullen 4 4 46 11.500 0 0 0 0 N. Emm 15 15 134 10.308 10.0 0 4 35 1 3.500 35.000 N. Fradgely 9 9 120 13.333 0 0 0 0 O. Coward 8 8 102 17.000 44.1 1 38 176 13 3.985 13.538 O. Johnson 6 6 41 8.200 30.0 5 8 134 6 4.467 22.333 P. Gibb 2 2 58 29.000 0 0 0 0 P. Godden 4 4 29 7.250 2.0 0 0 17 1 8.500 17.000 P. Williams 4 4 17 8.500 4.0 0 4 36 0 9.000 R. Hammond-Smith 4 4 33 8.250 29.0 2 6 129 6 4.448 21.500 S. Goodwin 8 8 163 27.167 36.0 2 4 203 6 5.639 33.833 T. Blacklock 6 4 6 1.500 41.3 2 19 192 9 4.627 21.333 T. Edwards 16 16 604 40.267 36.2 1 10 221 8 6.083 27.625 T. Mills 2 2 13 6.500 2.0 1 1 8 0 4.000 EVENING MATCHES A. Bennett 12 12 336 42.000 51.2 3 1 261 18 5.084 14.500 A. Wright 3 3 14 4.667 0 0 0 0 C. Churchill 6 6 29 4.833 0 0 0 0 C. Spendley 6 4 78 25.1 2 1 137 8 5.444 17.125 C. Williams 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 D. Slater 4 0 0 19.0 0 13 95 5 5.000 19.000 I. Potter 11 8 62 12.400 24.0 0 2 148 9 6.167 16.444 J. Cray 6 3 28 9.333 29.0 4 3 81 11 2.793 7.364 J. Keen 8 3 2 1.000 39.0 5 6 133 13 3.410 10.231 K. Hatton 3 0 0 2.0 0 1 9 0 4.500 M. Catchpole 4 3 38 12.667 0 0 0 0 M. Green 5 4 31 31.000 0 0 0 0 N. Bowes 5 3 2 0.667 0 0 0 0 N. Emm 9 5 30 10.000 0.3 0 0 2 1 4.000 2.000 N. Goodlife 11 4 12 12.000 0 0 0 0 P. Vaughn 5 3 9 1.0 0 3 3 1 3.000 3.000 P. Williams 6 3 6 3.000 0 0 0 0 S. Goodwin 8 4 91 30.333 18.0 0 4 102 3 5.667 34.000 T. Blacklock 2 1 20 20.000 10.0 0 2 39 1 3.900 39.000 T. Edwards 12 12 332 27.667 0 0 0 0 T. Salisbury 2 1 6 6.000 0 0 0 0 34 The Downsman October 1997

Handley Hair Shop 50 High Street Sixpenny Handley

Under New Management

Bridget welcomes existing and new clientele

Open – Tuesday to Saturday Late Night – Wednesday till 7pm

Best Competitive Prices

Always happy to see you Appointments not always necessary Unisex Tel: 01725 552733

35 The Downsman October 1997

Everyone will have heard the expression that the mountain won't come to Mohammed. In the case of East Dorset District Council - they are doing just that. Earlier this year, the Council introduced a Mobile Advice Centre that tours the area bringing its services to you.

What does it look like? It's a 27 foot long bright green bus with the Council's logo on the sides. What facilities does it have? This is a "you name it - it's got it!" To give you a brief idea, it has: · a fully automated disabled access which allows wheel chair users to get on board · an interview room which allows sensitive matters to be discussed in total privacy · a reception area with display and exhibition facilities which are changed for each schedule of visits · computer links to the Council's offices to provide accurate on-the-spot answers to all your queries · print out facilities which allow you to take away a hard copy of any relevant information · a large display of leaflets

What help can I get from it? Again - you name it and we'll either help you or, to use a well-known expression, refer you to someone that can! Normally though, the same officer will be able to deal with all your questions - no more having to be referred to several different departments. Imagine being able to pop down the road and, in 5 minutes, deal with all those pressing issues that you haven't had time to do. · How do I process a planning application? · Who are my local councillors? · Can you advise me on my council tax and housing benefit? · When is the next delivery of black sacks? · When is the kerbside box emptied? · I need a green kerbside box · I want to look at the District Plan · garden bonfires, noisy neighbours annoying you, we can help · Am I entitled to a war pension? · I have badgers in the garden what can I do? · Where do I get a replacement birth certificate? · Where can I get money for small house repairs? · Where can I purchase a Wormery? · What can I do with little Harry and Katie to keep them busy during the school holidays? · I'm buying a new house -could my dream country cottage be surrounded by a new housing estate? I like the house but it isn't quite big enough. Can I build an extension? · I've just moved to Dorset and not sure about the area. What are the local attractions, leisure facilities, clubs and schools? Where can my friends stay when they visit? · Can I cut a tree down on my garden?

36 The Downsman October 1997

· What do I need to organise a barbecue to raise money for charity?

Which other organisations can I see on board? The Community Police and HYPED (Housing for young people) have already recognised the importance of getting out into the community and make use of the Centre in certain areas. Other organisations are being actively encouraged to join us. Full details of the schedule of visits, exhibition themes and other organisations on board will be published in the Community Magazines.

Where does it stop in my area?

The East Dorset District Council Mobile Advice Centre will be calling at the Village Hall on the following Mondays: -

10:00 – 10:45 am 6th October 20th October 3rd November 17th November 1st December 15th December

Details of its other routes are available from the Council offices (Tel 01202 886201) or by telephoning Talking pages (Tel 0800 600 900).

JOIN THE HUNDREDS OF PEOPLE WHO USE THE ADVICE CENTRE AND MAKE IT WORK FOR YOU.

THE IMPS & GUESTS CHRISTMAS CONCERT

FRIDAY 12TH DECEMBER 7PM HANDLEY VILLAGE HALL

Admission £1 (adults)

Come along and enjoy an evening to get you into the Christmas Spirit. Listen to the band and join in and sing the Carols.

Refreshments - Raffle - Quiz

37 The Downsman October 1997

Sixpenny Handley Rainfall

July was a very dry month, sandwiched in between a very wet June (five inches) and an equally wet August (also five inches), with a quarter of an inch at the beginning of the month and half an inch at the end.

My guess of perhaps 'a thunderstorm or two" for July was answered at the beginning of August. There was a storm of sorts with heavy rain on the fifth. In the four days 3rd to 6th inclusive we had nearly three inches and two more fell at the end of the month with a dry fortnight in between.

Since 1991, when July gave us nearly four inches, each subsequent calendar month of July has been drier than its predecessor with 1997 the driest. The average July rainfall over the past twelve years was one and three quarter inches so this July's niggardly three quarters of an inch needed to be atoned for in August, as indeed it was.

Now in mid-September we are back in a dry spell with summer skies and W sunshine. Incidentally, I can remember one Friday in September (probably 1928 or 29) when the thermometer soared so high that the paper shop in Fisherton Street had a placard outside proclaiming "FRY-DAY". Those were the days!

See you next issue.

WOODCUTTS CUBS

We now meet on Friday evenings between 6.15 and 7.15 pm. Last term the cubs managed to gain their Cyclist, Swimmers, Company and Naturalist badges as well as completing their Adventure and Cub Awards.

During the holidays Chris Preedy and Mark Styles gained their My Faith Badge, well done boys. We will continue to attend the Family Service so I hope the others will also undertake this badge.

On Sunday 14th September Sixers Ben Cutler and Jonathan Swift took the Church collection and did this very well. After the service we had a ‘Going Up’ when Ben, Jonathan and Chris Bowes with Chris Preedy went up to scouts. Well done and Happy Scouting to you all.

Last week Mark Styles and Isaac Meuden became our new Sixers and George Gillet a second Sixer, and we look forward to welcoming Simon Bowes into the pack when he is enrolled next week.

It would be nice if a few more boys could come and join up on our Pack night to have some fun and gain some badges. HAPPY SCOUTING

38 The Downsman October 1997

PARISH DIARY

DATE FUNCTION PAGE DATE FUNCTION PAGE

Oct 01 Wednesday Club 04 Nov 06 Cricket Club A.G.M. 32 Oct 01 RSPB at Garston Wood 12 Nov 12 Wednesday Club 04 Oct 01 Whist at the Village Hall 14 Nov 12 Whist at the Village Hall 14 Oct 02 Chase Friends Coffee 22 Nov 13 S.H.E.D.D.S. Bingo 27 Morn. Nov 13 Mothers Union 28 (Weekly on Thursdays) Nov 15 Downsman Copy ** Oct 02 S.H.E.D.D.S. Bingo 27 Deadline Oct 04 Portland Singers 35 Nov 15 St. Mary’s Bazaar 23 Oct 05 RSPB at Garston Wood 12 Nov 16 RSPB at Garston Wood 12 Oct 08 Bridge at The Roebuck 04 Nov 19 Bridge at The Roebuck 04 Oct 09 Mothers Union 28 Nov 22 S.H.E.D.D.S. Xmas Show 27 Oct 11 Village Hall Jumble Sale 17 Nov 26 Wednesday Club 04 Oct 13 100 Club Draw 05 Nov 26 RSPB at Garston Wood 12 Oct 13 W.I. Open Meeting 06 Nov 26 Whist at the Village Hall 14 Oct 13 Flower Show Open 28 Nov 27 S.H.E.D.D.S. Bingo 27 Meeting Nov 30 RSPB at Garston Wood 12 Oct 13 S.H.E.D.D.S. Auditions 27 Nov 30 Sunday Night Live StMarys 26 Oct 15 Wednesday Club 04 Dec 03 Bridge at The Roebuck 04 Oct 15 Whist at the Village Hall 14 Dec 06 Bowls Club Christmas Quiz 19 Oct 16 S.H.E.D.D.S. Bingo 27 Dec 10 Wednesday Club 04 Oct 22 Bridge at The Roebuck 04 Dec 11 S.H.E.D.D.S. Bingo 27 Oct 22 RSPB at Garston Wood 12 Dec 11 Mothers Union 28 Oct 23 For The Kidz A.G.M. 11 Dec 12 The Imps Xmas Concert 37 Oct 26 RSPB at Garston Wood 12 Dec 13 Whist - Christmas Drive 14 Oct 29 Wednesday Club 04 Dec 16 S.H. First School Bingo 30 Oct 29 Whist at the Village Hall 14 Dec 17 Bridge at The Roebuck 04 Oct 30 S.H.E.D.D.S. Bingo 27 Dec 20 S.H.E.D.D.S. Father Xmas 27 Oct 31 S.H.E.D.D.S. Halloween 27 Dec 27 S.H.E.D.D.S. Xmas Disco 27 Nov 05 Bridge at The Roebuck 04 Dec 28 RSPB at Garston Wood 12 Nov 05 RSPB at Garston Wood 12 Dec 31 S.H.E.D.D.S. New Year 27

Please support your local functions

Details correct at time of going to press.

Organisers - Please let the Editor have details of any additional items to be included above. Dates quoted in contributors’ copy will appear automatically. The aim is to cover the forthcoming 3 month period each issue.

39 The Downsman October 1997

OPEN A BOX!

Come and enjoy a friendly, A chance to share concerns and meet fun-packed morning at the new friends with similar needs. Village Hall. Contact - Val Bowen Babies, toddlers and Tel:- 01725 552792 children under school age are welcome - with their mothers and carers. We always provide refreshments and sometimes special events. Opportunity to spend time away from mum and enjoy playing Mondays with other children within a caring environment. 10.00am - 11.30am Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday Term time 9:30am - 12:00 noon Contact - Penny Morrison Contact - Hazel Killeen Tel:- 01725 552059 Tel:- 01725 552024

An introduction to mainstream school. Time to get to know the teachers, the routines and expectations of school life. Monday and Friday morning 8:45am - 11:15am Contact - Sue Shepperd Tel:- 01725 552784

Age 4 - 9 years Give your child a first class education in the friendly, caring environment of your village school. Register your child as soon as possible to ensure a place. Contact - Mrs A. Latcham (Headteacher) Tel:- 01725 552356

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