The Loddon Valley Link Church and Parish Magazine for Sherfield-on-Loddon, Stratfield Saye and

Hartley Wespall with Stratfield Turgis Issue 440

October 2011

Services for October 2011

Sunday 2nd October Trinity 15 No Service due to road works St Leonard’s Sherfield 10.00am Harvest Family Service St Mary’s Stratfield Saye* & Baptism 6.30pm Evensong with St Mary’s Hartley Wespall Holy Communion Sunday 9th October Trinity 16 10.00am Morning Worship St Leonard’s Sherfield With Children’s Sunday Club Friday 4.15pm Messy Church Sherfield Park Community Centre Sunday 16th October Trinity 17 10.00am Holy Communion St Leonard’s Sherfield with Children’s Sunday Club 10.00am Matins (BCP) with Communion by Extension St Mary’s Stratfield Saye* 6.30pm Evensong St Mary’s Hartley Wespall Wednesday 4.00 pm Toddlers St Leonard’s Church Sunday 23rd October Last of Trinity 8.00am Prayer Book Communion St Mary’s Hartley Wespall 10.00am Family Service & Baptisms St Leonard’s Sherfield Sunday 30th October 4th before Advent 10.00am Benefice Communion St Leonard’s Sherfield

Sunday 6th November 3rd before Advent 10.00am Holy Communion St Leonard’s Sherfield 10.00am Family Service St Mary’s Stratfield Saye* 4.00pm Evensong with St Mary’s Hartley Wespall Holy Communion *Drive up close to the white gates, which will open automatically . Children are welcome at all our services. Services in italics are particularly geared to children and families. BCP = Book of Common Prayer.

Page 2 Cover photo by Brian Archer

Navigation On 22nd October 1707, four British warships struck rocks and sank off the Isles of Scilly with the loss of 2,000 crew. The problem was navigation and it was one of the big mysteries of that time. Latitude was no problem (circle location points going round a globe) but nobody could work out how to mark longitude Revd. Bob Politt (circle location points going from north/south). Parliament set up a commission and offered a huge reward for anyone who could find the answer. For centuries the greatest minds tried to solve this problem. Amongst them were Galileo, Sir Isaac Newton and Halley (of the comet fame). The Observatory at Greenwich was established for this reason and many believed that the answer lay in the stars and the movements of the moon. Then a self taught watchmaker, called John Harrison, came up with a preposterous idea: he said that the problem could be solved with a special clock, a chronometer. For decades he was mocked, humiliated and rejected until proven right. His mechanical invention was an affront to the greatest of minds but he was right. It’s suggested that his invention paved the way to Britain becoming great and ruling the waves. On holiday recently I enjoyed doing at bit of basic map reading. Navigation is about measuring, something we do all the time: cooking, weighing, DIY, scoring for games, gardening etc. Everything we do seems to be about measuring, and to measure something you must have a basic standard from which to work . This is fine until it comes to human behaviour. What standard should we use to measure right and wrong? We have the law of the land but Human Rights legislation can push this aside. Lots of us measure our standards of behaviour from other people by saying: “Do to others what they do to you.” This is OK if people do nice things to you. Some follow the 10 Commandments which are good but how do you make them work? Like John Harrison’s clock, this may seem a most unlikely source of measuring, but God has given us the standard, the measure of his own life, in his Son who said: “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life, follow me.” The Creator’s life is on full display in his Son, Jesus, and he offers to share his life with all who are willing to receive him. Christian greetings,

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BREACH LANE CHAPEL

Sherfield on Loddon Contact: Rev Chris Russell 01276 21469 Geoff Belsham 01256 882534 October 2011

Every Sunday 10.30am Family Worship

Every Tuesday 10.30am Open Morning (please phone to check) Every Wednesday 2pm Kurling at Ridgeway Centre, Buckskin (with Mencap)

Thursday 6th 7.30pm Bible Study at 9 Coopers Lane Sunday 9th 3pm Bible Study in Chapel 5.30pm Informal Worship - New Time Saturday 15th 2.30pm Disabled Christian Fellowship at Camberley Baptist Church Wednesday 19th 7pm Swimming at Tadley Pool (with Mencap)

Sunday 25th 3pm Bible Study at Chapel

CATHOLIC SERVICES Church of St Bede, Popley (www.vinntec.co.uk/hg/) Contact Fr. Dominic Golding, at the Parish Office Tuesday to Friday 9.30 - 1.00pm Tel: 01256 465214 Sunday Mass 9.00 am, 11.00 am, and 6.30pm

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Editorial Harvest time rolls round again. I’ve just been watching the last of the corn stooks been taken off the fields and the plough’s out already. As if that wasn’t enough the clocks go back this month. Lots of beautiful produce, flowers, arts and crafts were on display at the annual Sherfield show. A ‘flavour’ of the event can be seen on page 23. I was also involved in the bicentennial cricket match at Stratfield Turgis celebrating 200 years of cricket in the village. It was a great day in all respects. Pictures on page 26. We’re still actively looking for another editor. For this and anything else please contact us at [email protected]

We would like to thank everyone who attended Roy Best’s funeral for a lovely afternoon celebrating his life . We would also like to thank everyone who helped on the day making sure everything ran like clockwork (he trained us well) from the parking to the seating arrangements . The flowers in the church were wonderful thank you . Finally we would like to thank Stratfield Saye Estate and their staff for all their help. Thank you all very much. The Best Family

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Church Toddler Time for Babies to 5’s The next ‘Toddler Time’ will be Wednesday 19th October 2011 4.00-4.20pm At St Leonard’s Church on the Red Carpet Nursery Rhymes, Story, Prayer. Healthy refreshments. All welcome Contact Bob Politt for more information 01256 882209 [email protected]

Report from the Evergreen's Club for the over 60’s Our guest speaker for the September meeting was Steve from Whitewater Nurseries. He gave a very interesting, informative talk and demonstration on the planting of autumn/winter pots. Steve brought with him a variety of perennial plants and also pansies, cyclamen , violas and ivy and demonstrated different arrangements for pots. Members were also able to purchase plants and Steve also answered any questions from the floor. The meeting closed with tea and a raffle. The next meeting is our Harvest Festival October 3rd at 2pm.

We would like to say a big thank you to the White Hart pub and Sandhurst Marquees of Sherfield for putting together a wedding reception for us on Saturday 3rd September with less than a weeks notice! When things went wrong with our planned venue I made a quick visit to the White Hart on August bank holiday weekend and from there our new venue and ten hour party was arranged. Luckily for us, Glenn from Sandhurst Marquees had availability for the date and put together a fabulous marquee in the pub gardens. Manager Paul & chef Richard from the White Hart worked quickly with us to plan menus and arrange our outside bar facilities. Our two course lunch and evening buffet were exceptional, receiving lots of compliments from our guests. The service by all the White Hart staff on the day was efficient, friendly and helpful. Thanks to everyone involved, you made our day perfect! We really do appreciate all your hard work. James & Sarah Johnston, Sherfield on Loddon Page 6

www.LoddonValleyLink.hampshire.org.uk

Renowned for delicious food, great ales and a warm welcome

www.whitehartsherfield.co.uk White Hart, Reading Road, Sherfield on Loddon, Hants, RG27 0BT 01256 882280

Wellington Farm Shop - 01189 326132 www.wellington-farm-shop.co.uk Located on the A33 at the Riseley roundabout between Reading and Basingstoke

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SHERFIELD 0-5’S

Every Tuesday 10.00am to 12 noon

Sherfield Park Community Centre Climbing frame, toys, parachute games, singing, juice and biscuits, tea and coffee. A great place to meet new people and make new friends – everyone welcome! Come and join us! designed to wear out your children! Contacts: Louisa 01256 881229, Beccy 880894, Kerry 880167

BRAMLEY ART CLASSES Antonia Dewhurst is teaching classes in Drawing & Painting.

Monday 10.00-12.00am, 12.45-2.45pm and 7.00-9.00pm £90 for 10 weeks. £80 OAPs Situated in Cufaude Lane, Beginners & Improvers welcome. Tel: 01256 883876 [email protected]

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ST. LEONARD’S CHURCH Saturday Open Days On the 8th & 22nd October from 10am until 4pm. A list of all the Open Day dates for the year is displayed in the Lych Gate at the Church. Everyone is welcome to visit for quiet reflection, a prayer, to study the architecture and history of the church or to view with a wedding in mind.

Parish Registers Weddings Kerri Harvey 24.09.11 Sherfield & Jason Dunderdale

Funerals Roy Best 07.09.11 Stratfield Saye Anna Lewis 16.09.11 Sherfield Percy Sims 21.09.11 Sherfield

Church Harvest Festival Family Service

St Mary’s, Stratfield Saye 10.00am Sunday 2nd October

Please bring fresh or tinned produce to the services which will be donated to the Loddon School.

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For information call: 0118 932 6308 Brochure hotline: 0118 932 6480 www. wellington-riding.co.uk e-mail: [email protected]

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Aloe Vera Evening on October 18th. An opportunity to relax, have a glass of and find out the benefits of Aloe Vera and buy products. If you'd like an invitation or more information please contact Rody on 01256 882209.

'Pampered Chef' evening on Tuesday 8th November To be held at 33, Northfield Road, Sherfield on Loddon from 7.30pm - 9.00pm including refreshments and demonstrations. In aid of the St Leonard’s Extension Project. If you'd like an invitation please let Rody know on 01256 882209

The Women's Breakfast will be held on Saturday 12th November at Cross House in Bramley, Ann Lenton will be speaking, starting with breakfast at 8.30am. Requests for places to Rody Politt 882209

The next Bishop of will be the Revd Canon Tim Dakin. Bishop designate Tim, who is currently head of the , will be consecrated as the 97th in January and assume the role in Spring 2012. As well as heading up CMS since 2000 Tim is also a member of the ’s ruling body, the General Synod, an associate priest in the parish of Ruscombe and Twyford in the and an Honorary Canon Theologian of . Winchester’s previous bishop, the Rt Revd Michael Scott-Joynt, retired in May after 16 years in position.

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Luxury Torquay Petra Jewellery Holiday Bungalow A reputation for quality

Jewellery made to suit you & your budget!

Sleeps 6 Ideal for town & beaches

Free WiFi Free design consultations High-chair and cot Bespoke wedding rings Short breaks available Stunning selection of designs in stock Open all year 01256 883242 www.petrajewellery.com www.sunnytorquay.co.uk 01256 355945

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TEXT FOR THE MONTH… … From Colossians 4: 2-4 Paul writes “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful and pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should.” The NIV Bible Prayer for the Month. Lord Jesus Christ, we pray for your church and for its ministry to the world. May we, as members, be a source of love, hope, and comfort, compassion, challenge and inspiration to all whom we meet each day. Help us to be able to share our love and knowledge of you and be able to speak of our experiences of your goodness to us and tell about the difference you have made in our lives. Lord Jesus Christ, as we look at the world around us and hear news of problems everywhere, help us to keep faith and trust in you. Help us not to be discouraged by our anxieties about the state of our own country. Help us remember what you did for us on the cross and be prepared to give all we have, for your people in our planet. Show us that all that we possess comes from your generosity to us and by our own generosity help us to show to everyone, that we meet, what part you play in our lives. Grant to your people the inspiration of your Holy Spirit that they may have the light of Christ in their hearts In Jesus name we pray. Amen

Prayer Points for October Pray for all who attend the Christianity Explained Course in Bramley that they may become closer to you as they learn more of your love for them. Pray for the various home groups this autumn that they may enjoy warmth and fellowship as they study your word. Pray for the future of a world so full of anxieties and worries, uncertain of the future and unsure of the way forward. Give our leaders the courage to create policies in which all feel they can trust Pray for those who feel isolated and lonely as the darkness comes earlier each evening. Pray for all who mourn that they may receive the help, support and encouragement they need.

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www.LoddonValleyLink.hampshire.org.uk ELLIOTT’S LANDSCAPING

Tree Surgery Stump Grinding Hedge Cutting Fencing Decking Power Washing Turfing Garden Maintenance

Peter Elliott 01256 883743 Mobile: 07725 749 644

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Friday 14th October at 4.15pm

Life isn’t tidy and one of the strengths of our Church is that we don’t mind getting messy! ‘Messy Church’ is a monthly opportunity for families to enjoy being together, making things together, eating things together and celebrating God together. All are welcome: children, parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, carers, aunts uncles and friends. The session will run something like this:- 4.15pm—arrive and register, have a drink and a biscuit 4.30pm—Craft activities (on a ‘Nautical’ theme) 5.00pm— Worship, ending with ‘Messy Grace’ 5.15pm— Food! If you would like to come along please give us a little warning by contacting Jody Taylor on 01256 886119 Or email: [email protected]

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Happy Faces Playgroup

Sherfield-on-Loddon “Bring your happy face to our happy place” A small, friendly playgroup for children aged 2 years 6 months to school age Flexible Sessions including all day

F or further information, F or a prospectus/ please contact us on application form, contact 01256 880903 084501256 479 883162 8890

E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.happy-faces-playgroup.co.uk

Est. 1982 Charity No. 1029688

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The Garage AT SHERFIELD IS NOW OPEN

Goddard’s Lane, Sherfield-on-Loddon, HOOK, Hants. RG27 0EZ

Tel: 01256 882271 WE CAN CARRY OUT Mobile: 07812 939498  MOT’S - CARS/MOTORCYCLES  SERVICES Under new management  DIAGNOSTICS

 REPAIRS Main dealer trained technicians  AIR CONDITIONING

 COLLECTION AND DELIVERY Labour rates reduced by 20% SERVICE AVAILABLE

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SAT 24th September & SAT 22nd October 10am to 3pm (Free Entrance)

YOUR COUNTRY FLORIST CHINEHAM Traditional and contemporary flowers for all occasions Weddings, Funerals, Parties etc. Remember your loved one the best way possible, with flowers. 1 Reading Road, Chineham RG24 8LN (next to Indian Restaurant) Tel/Fax 01256 840222

FUNERAL DIRECTORS & MONUMENTAL MASONS. ALEXANDER & DRY Twenty four hour service. Pre-paid funeral plans available.

1 Seal Road, Basingstoke, RG21 7NQ Tel: 01256 844663

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James Christmas Education Foundation This charity was set up by the will of Mr James Christmas in the 18th century to provide resources for the education of children permanently resident in the Parish of Sherfield-on-Loddon. The Foundation has a very small income, which is distributed at the discretion of the Trustees. Parents or guardians may make an application on behalf of any child living in the Parish of Sherfield-on- Loddon, who has a particular educational need. Any application must be made in writing for consideration of the Trustees and addressed to: Mrs Eleanor Burt, James Christmas Education Foundation, 22 Northfield Road, Sherfield-on-Loddon. Hook. RG27 0DR. Applications will also be considered from any organisation catering for the education and leisure welfare of village children. Applications must be received by Sunday 30th October Revd Bob Politt (Chairman)

Men’s Breakfast Saturday 8th October 8.30am. Stratfield Saye Village Hall During breakfast: A glimpse of the beautiful Garden Route and Table Mountain in South Africa and the contrasting scenery of the extinct volcano, Mount Kilimanjaro. After breakfast: A chance to learn about the on-going work at three schools providing education and a safe environment to children orphaned by Malaria or HIV / AIDS in the rural, beautiful, but very poor areas around Kampala, Uganda. Our speakers are Bryan and Christine Watson, a Christian couple who work in Uganda for a month each year and provide ongoing support for these projects. Please let Sammie know if you would like to attend 0118 9816593 or [email protected]

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There’s never enough time to do … Garden Clearance, Seasonal Tidies, Grass Cutting, Turfing, Hedge Trimming, Steam Cleaning (Patios, Paths, Walls), Creosoting.

We offer weekly, fortnightly, monthly, quarterly visits or one-off tidy ups Tel: 01256 880333 or Mob: 07776 211211 www.masonsgardens.co.uk [email protected]

David and Mary Cole and Will’s Garden Services. Boars Bridge Farm, Little London Tel: 01256 881354 Mobile: 07951917943 or 07986616687 Email: [email protected] We offer a complete range of garden services, garden clearance and tidying, mowing, pruning, hedge cutting, patio cleaning, fencing, patios, turfing, etc.

Rewires, Fuse boxes, security lights Garden lights, alarms quotes free www.j-elec.com [email protected] 0118 942 7553

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Thank you Sherfield for your generosity last year Remembrance Sunday - 13th Nov

Poppy Appeal House Collection starts on Saturday 29 October 2011

Please help to raise extra Funds through Gift Aid

Put your donations into the Gift Aid envelopes & print your details clearly.

Can you help to collect in Sherfield Park? Tel:880075

Sherfield and District Gardening Club

We have a packed schedule of speakers and garden visits planned for the rest of 2011 and beyond. Anyone interested in gardening will be most welcome to join us at the Sherfield Village Hall at 7:30pm On Monday 17th October John Negus, well known garden writer, broadcaster, lecturer and photographer will talk about ‘Conservatory & House Plants’. Trained at Wisley Gardens and Merrist Wood Horticultural colleges, photo-journalist John Negus enjoys sharing his passion for gardening and other outdoor pursuits. John broadcasts regularly on Radio Surrey and Sussex and also writes features for ‘Woman’s Weekly’. On Monday 21st November Susan Campbell will talk about ‘The History of the Walled Garden’. Susan has been researching the history of the walled kitchen garden for over 20 years. She has personally visited and photographed nearly 400 walled kitchen gardens in the UK and abroad, and is a foremost authority on the subject. She lectures and advises professionally and is currently recording the National Trust's restoration of the kitchen gardens and glasshouses at Tatton Park, for a book.

For arrangements contact: Linda on 882341 or Vanessa on 881760

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Update from Sherfield-on-Loddon Parish Council Planning Aid A new service has been launched by Planning Aid England to give free independent professional planning advice to communities, neighbourhood groups and individuals who cannot afford to pay professional fees. For details of eligibility and criteria go to www.rtpi.org.uk/planningaid or phone 0330 123 9244. A33 Traffic Survey A sincere thank you to all those who responded to the survey in the July/August edition regarding pedestrian /cyclist use of the A33 between the village and Sherfield Park. 129 replies were received in total and overall there was strong support for traffic measures to be taken on this section. The full set of results can be viewed on the parish council website at: www.sherfieldonloddon-pc.gov.uk/noticeboard. The report has now been sent to Hampshire County Council as part of its review on the safety and ease of use of the A33. A Call for Action The Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) is calling for support to amend the draft National Planning Policy Framework proposed by the government as it is extremely worried about the implications for Hampshire where all greenfield sites outside of the National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty would be at risk. To have your say, go to www.cprehampshire.org.uk. where a template letter may be found for forwarding on to your M.P. Urgent – volunteers required! Please see the call for volunteers in the newsletter enclosed with this edition. The Village Green Volunteers, in particular, need extra hands to plant the free trees supplied by the Tree Council – any time you can spare would be most welcome. The next Sherfield-on-Loddon Parish Council meeting will be on Wednesday 12 October 2011 at 7.30pm in the Liddell Hall – all welcome! Julie Collins - Clerk to the Parish Council, Sherfield-on-Loddon, PO Box 6862, Basingstoke, RG24 4QZ Telephone: 01256 473927 Email: [email protected]

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“A village event for all ages” ….45th Sherfield Show The annual flower, produce & crafts show is always good fun and attracts all age groups: from under-5s competing for the Happy Faces Trophy, won by Tyler Hudson, to those in their 80s! Knocking his friendly rival, Norman Smith, off prime position, John Attwood stole the Show. The committee would like to thank those who entered & attended, donors, advertisers, judges, stewards and especially families or individuals entering multiple classes. Many thanks also go to Jan Panting, Volunteers Organiser from Thrive for presenting the trophies. A donation from the Show will soon be presented to Thrive a charity ‘using gardening to change lives’ at Beech Hill. Sherfield Show is for amateurs. We encourage you to try your hand at exhibiting and look forward to welcoming you next year. Visit

www.sherfieldshow.hampshire.org.uk

Natalie Larner Show Secretary

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The Role of the Beat Officer WPC Mandy Jewell I was recently asked if I would write an article about the role of a beat (Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT)) officer. The list below was published by our district commander recently, outlining what was expected from

us. Needless to say it is not an exhaustive list. • Community engagement • Partnership working • Long term problem solving • Investigating neighbourhood crimes • Tackling Anti Social Behaviour (ASB) The beat team is myself and Geoff, PCSO 13385 Fermor- Dunman. Community Engagement We have regular contacts with our parish councils, of which there are 7 and our Neighbourhood Watch coordinators. These provide for a two way exchange of information and help us to prioritise our patrol plans in the light of changing circumstances. We hold a quarterly meeting with representatives from each parish (this is named the beat panel) which reviews our activities and plans. From time to time we carry out ad hoc surveys to gain input from various localities. within the beat area. We use a survey form ‘Your Voice Counts’ which is sent out for this purpose. Partnership Working and Problem Solving This term stems from the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 which sets out an agenda whereby relevant agencies work together as new problems emerge. It is designed to ensure that we all think together and act in a concerted way. We are fortunate, in the Basingstoke area, to have a good working relationship with the housing associations and the

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Community Safety Team at Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council. We have put a working group together to resolve various issues around the beat area. Currently we are working together regarding the play area on the new estate at Bramley and the lighting along the cinder track between the new estate and the railway station. This approach assists for long term problem solving. Investigating Neighbourhood Crimes As a beat team we check all the incidents which have occurred in the beat area and identify those where there are further enquiries to be made and possible arrests. For example we are currently looking at a series of pushbike thefts where there are clear indications on links between the thefts. We notify business communities and agricultural interests of issues both inside and outside the area to enable them to increase their state of alert if a crime trend begins to emerge which is of particular relevance to them. Tackling Anti Social Behaviour (ASB) We are particularly concerned to identify and address the causes of ASB. For example disputes between adults generated by children playing inappropriately can be avoided by providing the right kind of play facilities for the children. We have been fortunate this year. To date there haven’t been many incidents and those incidents which have been reported have not resulted in an ongoing problem. We patrol areas where incidents have been reported to us and where from experience we know it is likely that issues may emerge. Speed enforcement is another matter raised by residents, and again it is a subject raised in most parishes across the area. Some beat officers have been trained to use the laser speed detector, unfortunately only one in the Basingstoke rural area, so we still rely on our colleagues to support us in this role.

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Stratfield Turgis and Hartley Wespall Cricket Club. Bicentennial Cricket match and Fun Day on 29th Aug 2011. 200 years of cricket in Stratfield Turgis.

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Basingstoke Afternoon W.I. will be holding their biennial Autumn Fayre and Crafts on Saturday 29th October 2011 at St. Michael’s Church Cottage, Basingstoke Town Centre, between 10.00 am and 12.00 midday.

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J Cook Landscapes Holdshott Farm Shop

Heckfield

Your local organic meat supplier Maintenance Situated on the B3011, the farm Decking & Fencing shop is in an idyllic location with Patios & Driveways plenty of parking. We have a master butcher - Mr Roger Garden Design & Build David on site who has over 40 Clearance years experience. Call now for a free quote: Holdshott Farm Shop, Holdshott Farm, Heckfield, Hook, 01256 412723 / 0771 7214521 Hampshire, UK, RG27 0JZ e: [email protected] Telephone/Fax: 0118 932 6650 www.jcooklandscapes.co.uk E-mail: [email protected]

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BATS Next Gen are proud to announce that their next show will be Our House – the Madness musical.

Featuring hits such as "Baggy Trousers", " My Girl's Mad At Me", "It Must Be Love" and "House of Fun", Our House tells the story of Joe Casey as he faces a decision on the night of his 16th birthday. We see both outcomes as his life splits in two during this fast- moving, high energy show, and find out what happens when both Joes must make one final, major choice - but just how diffi- cult is it to choose the right one? The show will be performed from Wednesday 26th October to Satur- day 29th October 2011 at Queen Mary's Hall, Queen Mary's College, Cliddesden Lane, Basingstoke. Evening performances commence at 7:30pm and there is a matinee at 2pm on Saturday 29th October.

Tickets are priced from £10 (concessions available) and can be pur- chased from the BATS Next Gen website (www.batsnextgen.co.uk) or from the Box Office on 07919 597785

Sherfield Park Community Centre

We are really excited at the Community Centre as so many fantastic groups and activities are starting during September. We encourage everyone to come and look around the Centre and check out our fabulous facilities, whether it’s party hire you’re after, a fitness class, a coffee and a natter or a corporate meeting there is definitely something for everyone! We have some great events coming up too over the October half term with a Multi Sports Fun Day on 25th October for ages 7+ and tickets will be on sale for a Halloween Party for all the family on October 30th. We will also be hosting our 2nd quiz night during October, so keep up to date on our website! For further information or enquiries please contact Candice Wright, Centre Manager, [email protected] Tel 01256 883967 or visit our website www.sherfieldparkcommunitycentre.co.uk

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SHERFIELD ON LODDON BB N S POST OFFICE & STORES Basingstoke Network Services  BNS is your local computer company with many years Tel: 01256 882210 of experience.  We offer a friendly, efficient service that’s excellent THE POST OFFICE NOW DOES value for money. ROAD TAX, We specialise in all aspects of software and hardware support, maintenance and training - from installing TRAVEL INSURANCE, exchange servers to servicing laptops—we can do it! PERSONAL LOANS, Call us on 01256 883838 CAR INSURANCE, www.basingstoke-network-services.co.uk FOREIGN EXCHANGE ETC. Your computers are our business!

For a Warm Friendly Welcome THE SHOP IN SHERFIELD-ON-LODDON Selling a vast range of groceries including: Local Bakery bread & Cakes: Market fresh fruit & veg. Quality fresh meat & poultry: Excellent selection of Wine Beer Spirits & Tobacco; All at competitive prices THE SHOP, Reading Road, Sherfield Telephone: 01256 882234 Open: Monday—Saturday 7.00 am to 7.00 pm Sundays 9.00 am to 5.00 pm

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Village Hall Matters Sherfield on Loddon Village Hall Reg. Charity No. 272385 Tel: 01256 882539 / 07799245361 Email: [email protected]

THE LIDDELL HALL The Liddell Hall is the smaller hall, adjacent to the main hall and opened in 1991. Over the summer this hall has been redecorated and a new floor covering has been laid. The flooring material is heavy duty vinyl woodplank recommended for community hall use with a polyurethane surface treatment to assist ongoing maintenance. THE QUEEN’S DIAMOND JUBILEE At a recent meeting of user groups and other interested parties it was agreed to hold a community event to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee next year. The date has been confirmed as Monday 4th June and it is planned that the Village Hall will be at the hub of the celebrations throughout the day. PoSH The generosity of PoSH members plays an important role in fundraising. If you become a Patron of Sherfield Village Hall, not only will you be helping us to conserve a wonderful building but you stand a chance of winning one of our annual draw prizes. See our website or call Jill on 882416. Please don’t forget the PoSH Coffee Morning on the 2nd Saturday of each month at 10.30am in the Garden Room. All welcome - you don’t have to be a Patron to attend.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Fri 21st Oct – “Live at the Hall” Cabaret Bar & Pizza th Sat 29 Oct – Holly Market For more information on clubs, groups, events and hall booking see:

www.sherfieldvillagehall.co.uk “At the heart of our community for over 100 years”

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Highly Qualified Teacher

Many years experience as Head of French in private London day schools. (Up to

West Green Road, Hartley GCSE) Wintney RG27 8LP Open June to late September for Available for private tuition in Pick Your Own & Ready Picked Maths, English, Verbal and fruit, vegetables and flowers non-verbal reasoning, including Strawberries, Tayberries, Common Entrance and Currants, Gooseberries, general extra teaching Raspberries, New Potatoes, support. Asparagus and Flowers. We also sell local Honey, Free Range Eggs and Please contact Emma Homemade Jams Wellesley CALL 01252 845772 from May 1st 07958 662 015 For information, & to place orders. Or visit www.westgreenfruits.com

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THE WOMEN’S INSTITUTE Reported by Ilene Iles

At our September Meeting, Dee Bulpitt, our President, remarked on what a good turnout there was. There were 41 present. She mentioned that, sadly, Peggy Clarkson had passed away in the last month and a short silence was held in her memory. Dee reported that Lois Batting is now home and doing well. Jerusalem was sung unaccompanied and the Minutes of the previous Meeting read by Ilene and signed by Dee. The correspondence was dealt with by Val Denny. She confirmed the trip to Bletchley Park on the 11th October will take place. It will leave The White Hart at 9.30 am. Evelyn Holdaway gave the Treasurer’s Report and Dee advised those present that our subscriptions for the coming year are increasing. Dee also mentioned that there would not be a walk this month. Brenda Frost distributed the birthday cards for the month and Social and Group Skittles evenings were discussed. Dee mentioned that the schedules are ready, with application forms, for our Cookery Competition in November. The Business Meeting closed at 2.45 pm. Dee then introduced our Speaker – Ms Anne Bremmer of Harper Asprey Wildlife Rescue whose talk was entitled “Sharing Our Wildlife Experiences”. Anne brought with her a colleague and six small rescue animals! She started her talk by telling us that they are based near Camberley and have 27 volunteers and great support from Brian May of “Queen” who lets them use part of his property in Windlesham for preparing the animals for their release back into the wild. They deal with injured and abandoned deer, foxes, badgers, bats, ducks, squirrels, hedgehogs, spiders – the list seemed almost endless. Anne emphasised that ALL the animals go back to the wild – they are never kept as pets and, if they cannot be released, they are euthanased. We were given lots of information about wildlife, their habits, feeding, preferred environments, the harm that we humans cause with pesticides, slug pellets etc., and the illnesses and other stresses they suffer. During her talk, Anne’s colleague brought round a baby pipistrelle bat, Rodney – a baby hedgehog, and Sammy (hedgehog) who was only 5 days old, a baby tufted duck and two baby grey squirrels! When they are old enough the will be put into a very large enclosure without human contact to make them human wary before being released back into the wild. Val gave the vote of thanks for a very amusing and interesting talk. A delicious tea followed and the raffle was drawn. NEXT MEETING: WEDNESDAY, 5th OCTOBER 2011 AT 2 P.M. SPEAKER: JINA IRELAND - SUBJECT: “WOMEN IN PRISON”

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www.LoddonValleyLink.hampshire.org.uk

Carl Fanning The Village Decorator Decorating the Loddon Valley Area Painter and Decorator Local Tradesman with 25 years experience Decorating local properties since 1980 A “Dulux” Trade Member Good quality Trade Paints used - Internal and external decorating Free estimates - advice on colour and paints Full liability cover - all work is guaranteed Telephone: Carl on: 01189 424 883 or: 0795 266 1965

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Report by Gill Fearon

Sadly our September meeting had to be changed owing to the death of Chris Horton’s mother. Chris was planning a play reading so this had to be postponed to a later date. At the last minute, Jo Brennan stepped in with a talk about the year she and her family spent living in Jerusalem in 1966-7. Her husband was an Ophthalmologist with the RAF and worked in the hospital in Jerusalem. Jerusalem has had a very chequered past and was under British control from 1922 to 1948 when it was divided between the newly created state of Israel, and Jordan.

Jo described living in a simple flat which had no heating and was therefore very cold in the low temperatures of winter. She related going up onto the roof to peg out her washing and being shot at by Jewish snipers. Everywhere she went she had to be covered up. Whilst there, Jo and her family visited local sites including Wadi Rum where Laurence of Arabia apparently hid. She described the River Jordan as being very narrow, not as wide as the River Thames, which surprised us and also visited Nabulus, the site of Abraham’s Tomb. She passed round photos to show us what these places were like and also passed round some lovely jewellery which she had acquired there.

Towards the end of their stay there was trouble in Ram Allah where her older children went to school by bus. One day the bus did not return and so Jo drove herself to try to collect them, but was thwarted by tanks blocking the road. Eventually the children were brought back by soldiers, but it was obviously a terrifying ordeal, although Jo seemed to be very relaxed and calm about it – and indeed about the whole experience of living in a great melting pot of a city at that time. When war broke out in 1967 Jo and her family had to flee to Damascus in Syria. It was a very interesting talk which we all thoroughly enjoyed. Even I, in my ‘jet-lagged’ state, managed to stay awake!

This talk kept to our theme of ‘Around the World’ and we also plan to hear another talk by a member on the Amazon. Our October meeting will be a Music Evening when we will choose music from our visits abroad. Page 35

www.LoddonValleyLink.hampshire.org.uk

First-class care Show suites now open Coming soon to Bramley Green Cherry Blossom Manor A Barchester Care Home providing first-class Nursing Care and expert Dementia Care in our Memory Lane Community Call us or drop in for a chat: Cherry Blossom Manor, German Road, Bramley Green RG26 5GF Tel: 01256 441 388

Pygmalion Interiors The complete interior design service. Our large showroom allows us to offer a wide range of furniture in addition to fabrics, wallpapers, blinds, flooring, pictures & prints and many accessories.

Tel: (01252) 842287 www.pygmalioninteriors.co.uk Unit 6, Warren Hill Farm, Hulfords Lane, Hartley Wintney

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Can you help Cats Protection’s Basingstoke & District Branch raise cash for the kitty?

Cats Protection’s Basingstoke & District Branch needs to recruit a Fundraising Officer to enable it to raise money and help even more cats and kittens. The branch, which is run entirely by volunteers, needs someone who can spare a few hours a week to oversee its fundraising activities. No previous fundraising experience is necessary as the charity can provide assistance and support materials. Cats Protection is the UK’s leading cat charity and the Basingstoke & District Branch is part of a nationwide network of 257 volunteer-run branches and 30 adoption centres that together help over 230,000 cats each year. As well as finding new homes for unwanted and abandoned cats, the charity also offers cat care advice to the public and can help towards the cost of neutering. Hillary Wells, Branch Co-ordinator said: “The branch does a huge amount of work to help local cats but we really need someone to help raise money to enable us to carry on our work. The role is a varied one and includes booking events, organising volunteers to help, attending fetes and fairs and organising raffles. They don’t have to be a fundraising expert, as the charity can provide assistance and support materials, but we do need someone who cares about cats and has bags of enthusiasm. The role is a voluntary one and by sparing just a couple of hours a week it can make a huge difference to needy cats. We are sure whoever takes on the role will find it incredibly rewarding. It’s also a great way to make new friends – both human and feline!”

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer for Cats Protection’s Basingstoke & District Branch, then please contact Andrea Shepherd on 0118 9814617. www.basingstoke.cats.org.uk

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www.LoddonValleyLink.hampshire.org.uk M. Elliott Builders FREE ESTIMATES No job too small Garden Walls Patios Extensions Driveways Block paving Steps etc. Telephone 01256 334233 Mobile 07729263775

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www.LoddonValleyLink.hampshire.org.uk

Seeking a Venue for your Party, Reception, Craft Fair or Club meeting.... then look no further..... Sherfield-on-Loddon Village Hall is the place for you!

For further information on availability, charges and bookings contact Jan Martin Tel: 01256 882539 Mobile: 07799 245 361 Web: www.sherfieldvillagehall.co.uk

Basingstoke Window Cleaning Services We use a pure water, reach and wash system for a perfect smear-free finish  Windows Cleaned Inside  Conservatory Roofs Cleaned  Guttering Cleared & Cleaned  Soffits & Fascias Cleaned For a free, no obligation quote call Simon: 07852 117 361 Dan: 07712 885 345

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www.LoddonValleyLink.hampshire.org.uk

. LINDSEY HEMMINGS MECAP COUNSELLOR Anxiety - Bereavement Childhood related problems Co-dependency Dealing with change Depression - Divorce Family problems - Fears Feeling confused - Grief Low self-esteem - Loss Relationship problems Separation - Stress If you are looking for someone professional to listen in a safe and caring environment: Tel: 07946 324754 [email protected] www.lindseyhemmings.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING SPECIALIST Serving the local community for 30 years

 Bathrooms & shower installations  Solar thermal installations and energy-friendly controls  Gas Safe and Oftec registered for peace of mind with gas and oil installations 29164 Telephone: 01256 882309 Email: [email protected]

YOUR LOCAL TRADE PROFESSIONAL FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING, HEATING AND ELECTRICAL NEEDS TEL: 01256 880044 MOBILE: 07754 554554 Email: [email protected] www.pscservices.co.uk

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The Christmas Tree Festival 9th—11th December In St. Leonard’s Church This Year’s Theme is: A Children’s Book Title All are welcome to take part including Businesses, Families, Clubs and Individuals. It is Free and Fun Events during the week-end will include: a Launch Party, Stalls, Refreshments, a Concert by Wessex Harpers and local talent. There will also be a spontaneous pantomime. Entry forms and details of the Christmas Tree Festival are included in this copy of the Loddon Valley Link Page 41

SHERFIELD F C end of season report 2010 - 2011 Once again the club has encountered a difficult season both on & off the field of play. A year ago Don Campbell stood down as 1st team manager & despite a lot of effort, we were unable to find a successor. Sadly Don also made the decision to retire from the committee so leaving us without a chairman. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Don for his commitment and contribution to the club over the years. This resulted in Jordan Haddock becoming player manager but sadly by the end of October Jordan also resigned due to the pressure of the position. Meanwhile the reserve team, managed by Chris Spencer who missed most of the season due to serious injury, were performing well and with very good results. The club suffered a cruel & severe setback when the pavilion was broken into causing £1,450 worth of damage. My sincere thanks to Adrian Burt & Lloyd Gibbons who carried out emergency repairs, the following day. Meanwhile I took over the position of 1st team manager but the 1st team struggled to get the right results. On a positive note, the reserve team reached the county cup semi-final which was a great achievement. However in the new year it became apparent that despite the club having 54 registered players we were unable to raise two teams. This resulted with the reserve team being withdrawn from the league with Chris Spencer & Gary Staff becoming joint managers of the one remaining team. Despite an improvement with results the 1st team was relegated from the premier league for next season. I would like to thank the following for their continued support - The White Hart, Sandhurst Marquees, Saracen Aviation, The Four Horseshoes, The Shop, Sherfield Oaks Golf Club, Longford Mill, Mekanix, SCATS ,Wyvale garden centre car wash & Sherdon Estate Agents plus others to numerous to mention for their raffle donations and help over the year. I would like to express a sincere thank you to Mr Matt Todd of CPN Ltd, who kindly supplied a new kit for the season. Also a special thank you to Jan Holden for her help & support & the remaining 8 gentlemen of the club committee & last but by no means least" The Wags". The officers for the club for the forthcoming season are Gary Staff, Chairman, Gary Spencer, Secretary and Jan Holden, Treasurer. Wayne Brewer has accepted to position of honorary president in recognition of his commitment and contribution to the club over the years. Our fundraising efforts continue with The Four Horseshoes running 'Bonus Ball' competition every week plus The White Hart holding our monthly 'Meat Raffle' for £2 a ticket you could win £40 of vouchers to spend in The Shop. Meat Raffle is drawn on 1st Sunday on every month.

Page 42 Gary Spencer, Secretary

www.LoddonValleyLink.hampshire.org.uk

Tel. 01256-882736 or 882368 Mob. 07836 626323

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ADVERTISING IN THIS MAGAZINE AND ONLINE Small ads. For businesses are £5 monthly for a maximum of 30 words. For Sale / Wanted ads £2 monthly for a maximum of 12 words. Space permitting. Requests are dealt with in order. . Contact Pip Iles for details

DECORATOR I decorate. Inside and Outside. I cut lawns. I do all sorts of repairs. I am reliable and reasonable. I AM JOE. Tel:01256 883143 BABY SITTING. 15 yr old girl. Sensible. Good with children

Call Caitlin O’Suillivan 01256 880216

LOCAL PROFESSIONAL INTERIOR and EXTERIOR DECORATOR First class job guaranteed. Over 30 years experience. No job too small. For a free estimate ring Ian on 01256 882132 or mobile 07876021772 LOCAL EXPERIENCED TAX ADVISER Self Assessment Tax Returns + Arrears + Claims + Payroll + Self Employed + VAT Returns. Initial consultation free. Call 07920 112533 or email to [email protected]

SEWING. EXPERIENCED & CONVENIENT Visit Di’s emporium (next to Sherfield Garden Centre) for all your sewing needs. Bespoke dressmaking, clothing alterations & repairs. Curtains, Blinds, Soft Furnishings. Call Diana 01256 881114/ 07796045944 Eve.

COMMERCIAL & DOMESTIC BUILDINGS MAINTENANCE T.S.I. Electrical, plumbing, carpentry, decorating. For any quotation TEL:

01256 780460 Mob: 07989940210 SMALL ADVERTISEMENTS SMALL WAG TAILS DOG SERVICE Looking for a reliable, trustworthy local dog walker - Sherfield, Bramley, Chineham and Old Basing? Contact Katie on 01256 880446 or Mob: 07985 157700 GUITAR LESSONS. Local teacher covering rock, heavy metal, acoustic and jazz styles. Lessons are one-to-one, half an hour to one hour. Call Graham 01256 881513 or mob: 07752591046

GLOUCESTER OLD SPOT SAUSAGES AND BACON available. Orders taken now for pork boxes. Reared in Hartley Wespall. Please email: [email protected]

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Loddon Valley Link Management Committee

Chairman: Dr. Donald Dawson Tel. 01256 882379 email: [email protected] Deputy Chairman: Revd. Bob Politt Tel. 01256 882209 email: [email protected] Treasurer Winston Bruce Tel.01256 883277 (email: [email protected]) Deadline for ads. for November edition is 10th October Advertising Pip Iles Tel. 01256 880559 enquiries to: (email: [email protected]) All ads. Email: [email protected] ADVERTISING IN THIS MAGAZINE AND ONLINE Small ads. For businesses are £5 monthly for a maximum of 30 words. For Sale / Wanted ads £2 monthly for a maximum of 12 words. Space permitting. Requests are dealt with in order. Display ads. Contact Pip Iles for prices

Editor for Nov: Brian Archer Tel: 01256 882099 edition. email: [email protected] Deadline for including material in the Nov: edition is 16th Oct Email: [email protected]

Secretary: Ilene Iles Tel. 01256 880559 email: [email protected] Hartley Rep.: Dr. John Williams Tel. 01256 882705 email: [email protected] Sherfield Park Rep: Eileen Leivesley Tel: 01256 882938 email: [email protected] Stratfield Saye Rep: Germano Giugovaz Tel: 01189 332166 Committee Member: Claire Osborne Tel. 01256 324458 email: [email protected] Editor: Simon Boase Tel: 01256 881250 email: [email protected] Editor: Editor Brian Archer Tel: 01256 882099 ([email protected])

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CHURCH OFFICERS

OFFICERS Rector: Reverend Bob Politt, Tel: 01256 882209 Kindly Note: The Rector’s day off is Thursday Assistant Priest: Rev’d. Sammie Armstrong Tel: 01189 816593 Lay Readers: Richard Elphick Tel. 01256 882860 Dr. John Williams Tel. 01256 882705

ST. LEONARD’S CHURCH, SHERFIELD ON LODDON Churchwardens: Peter Gould Tel. 01256 882538 Peter Chessell Tel. 01256 478050 Treasurer: Dan Farrow Tel. 01256 882680 Organists: Mike Abrams Tel. 01256 881188 Brian Archer Tel. 01256 882099 Peggy Willson Tel. 01256 880503

ST. MARY’S CHURCH, STRATFIELD SAYE Churchwarden: Vacant Treasurer: Charles Atkinson Tel: 01256 882459 Organist: Fran Oliver Tel. 01189 268364

ST. MARY’S CHURCH, HARTLEY WESPALL Churchwarden: Pip Iles Tel. 01256 880559 Treasurer: Michael Webster Tel. 01256 882413 Organists: Dr. Gill Williams Tel. 01256 882705 Andrew Doggart Tel: 01256 880092

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