BVRA £1, free to Members Barkham

Issue 116 Summer 2016 Newsletterfrom the Barkham Village Residents Association http://www.barkham.org.uk

Despite repeated requests for a volunteer, we sFll need a new Social Secretary – it would be a great shame if the social events, such as the Quiz, Carols in the Park and Easter Egg Hunt had to cease. Please help – see pages 2 and 10

Protect The Bull by making it an “Asset of Community Value” - see page 17

Holiday Bible Club – see page 16

Have you paid your 2016 BVRA subscripFon? If not, please pay your distributor as soon as possible (it’s only £2!) The autumn and winter issues of the NewsleZer are delivered to paid up members only

In this issue…

Social Secretary vacancy 2 WBC Councillor 7 Anonymity petition 14 Quiz 2 Local concerts 8 Barkham Ladies/Bowls Club 15 Editorial 3 Social 10 Church/Bible Club 16 Parish Council 4 Local history 11 Protect The Bull 17 Neighbourhood Plan 6 Gardening 12 Ramblers 18 BVRA 2015/16 GENERAL This edition has a piece by BVRA Social Secretary Vacancy COMMITTEE MEMBERS Barkham resident Paul Steel who is seeking support for a petition Chairman: Stewart Richardson (acting) on the Parliamentary Website. If As men'oned previously, our Social Secretary Judith Collins is planning to [email protected] other residents have any “burn- move out of the parish and we need a volunteer to replace her. Secretary: Christine Leigh ing issues” they wish to air, I will 977 4333 always be pleased hear about [email protected] them. Treasurer: Ian Overton Judith and the rest of the Social Commi=ee have organised the various regular 973 4806 social events we hold each year, such as the quiz and the Easter Egg Hunt. [email protected] As usual, we also feature news Social: Judith Collins from Barkham Parish Council, 977 1579 our WBC councillor, St James’s Please consider volunteering to take on this important and interes'ng role on [email protected] Church, gardening and various behalf of the Barkham community. It’s a great opportunity to contribute Membership: Jim Butler societies including forthcoming 978 3572 Editorial musical events. Laurence Heath to and be part of the social life of the village. Judith will be happy to provide [email protected] provides one his regular develop- more details as to what the role entails and to support the new Social Newsletter: Stewart Richardson Welcome to the summer edition ment updates, this time focussing 979 1914 of the Barkham Newsletter! Can I on the Neighbourhood Plan. Secretary as they “learn the ropes”. [email protected] start by asking any residents who Web Site: Dave Clements 989 2198 haven’t paid their 2016 BVRA If you have any comments (good Alterna'vely, if you would like to help but do not feel able to take on the [email protected] subscriptions to please pay your or bad, but hopefully construc- leading role, the Social Commi=ee is always looking for new members Development Watch: Lindsay Brown distributor the £2 per household tive!) on the contents of the 07968 958151 fee as soon as possible. If you newsletter, please email me at and ideas for events so please consider helping by joining the commi=ee. [email protected] don’t know the name of your dis- [email protected]. tributor, please contact Jim Butler Judith’s contact details can be found on the facing page. (details on left). The autumn and Stewart Richardson winter editions of the newsletter Editor are distributed to paid up house- Advertising and holds only, of which there was a The Quiz Newsletter Contributions new record of 687 last year. We have lost an unusually large number of (mostly outstanding in their field) famous people in the entertainment world You will see we still haven’t found this year so far. Here is a selection to test your memory! Newsletter articles / contribu- a replacement for Judith Collins tions for the Autumn edition as our Social Secretary. Luckily 1 David Robert Jones died on 10 January. How was he better known? should be in by 9 September 2016. she hasn’t left yet but when she 2 On 14 January, we lost Alan Rickman. He appeared in many plays and films but which character did he play in It helps if these can be submitted does we will not be able to run the Harry Potter films? in electronic form by email to the social events unless we have Barkham web site 3 Terry Wogan also died in January. Which quiz show did he present from 1979-83? [email protected]. someone to coordinate the work They may also be sent to the The next 4 people all left us in March: of the social committee. Please We are constantly looking for Editor, Stewart Richardson, at 4 Ronnie Corbett was mainly famous for being (a small) half of the Two Ronnies. However, he first worked with give serious consideration to tak- ways to improve our website Ronnie Barker (and John Cleese) in which mid 60’s satirical programme? 342 Barkham Road, , ing on this role – don’t wait for www.barkham.org.uk and would RG41 4DE. 5 Keith Emerson was the keyboard player in prog-rock “Supergroup” Emerson, Lake and Palmer(ELP). Which someone else to volunteer! Judith welcome your suggestions. band did he leave in 1970 to join ELP? can explain the role if you want More photos please! 6 Sir George Martin was often known as “the Fifth Beatle”. Which record company was he employed by when he For trade adverts, contact started working with the Beatles? more details – her contact details Ian Overton by email to are in in the adjoining column. We are always in need of attrac- 7 On whose chat show was Debbie McGee asked “What first attracted you to the millionaire Paul Daniels?” [email protected], or tive images of the Barkham area call 973 4806. We offer three sizes, ....and the final 3 in April. Also, we’re still looking for a new for both the web site and newslet- 64mm x 54mm at £22, 124mm x 8 Who was born in Minnesota and died there on 21 April, aged 57. Chairman (I’ve been “acting” for ter, so if you have some interesting 105mm at £52 and 190x130mm at 9 The Two Ronnies had a famous “Four Candles” sketch but who wrote an equally funny (funnier?) “Two Soups” several years!) so don’t be shy – photos and would like to share £100, for 4 quarterly insertions. (and died in April) and who performed it? if you feel it’s a role you would them please get in touch. 10 And finally…., Barry Howard died in April. In the 1980’s he appeared in Hi-de-Hi! as a ballroom dancing interested in taking on do contact Dave Clements instructor with his screen wife. What were the names of their characters? Distribution of the next issue will me, or any member of the com- Answers on Page 19 take place in late September. mittee for more details.

2 3 Leopard bus will be key, and it is Basketball Hoop in the Junipers Barkham Village Hall hoped that timings and routings Next to St James’ Church, beau- will be adjusted to maximise the At last the weather has dried up tiful rural setting for weddings, number of pupils using the bus. and the contractors have been christenings and parties. In addition, ways and means of able to install the basketball hoop providing a safe cycling route are in The Junipers Park. We hope From as little as £23/hr for both being examined, with the most that with the warmer days and halls. £26.50/hr after 6.00 p.m. likely short term solution being to lighter evenings that you will all on Saturday. News from make adjustments to the footpath be able to enjoy this added facility Can accommodate 175 guests and Your Parish Council along Barkham Road and Langley in the park. Thank you to the girls now has a new fully equipped Common Road as a shared use who came to the Parish Council kitchen. Plus with the benefit of Keep up to date with all the lo- footpath and cycleway. with a petition demonstrating a Lottery Funding a new ceiling cal news and information at our need for this facility. We apolo- and lighting have been installed website Parish Clean Up gise for the length of time it took which can be fully dimmable for to install the hoop but we hope evening celebrations. Garrison SDL devel- Another successful litter pick took you are now able to enjoy this it intends to stop paying the RE3 Residents can plan their visit to opment update If you are a group who needs place on 20th March, 32 volunteers addition to the park. councils for waste delivered to the Bracknell centre by checking RE3 recycling centres by West the webcam on the RE3 website somewhere to meet on a regular helped to collect approx. 40 black basis why not use your local vil- The first phase of development residents. The three www.re3.org.uk, with a similar sacks of rubbish and 30 sacks RE3 Recycling Open To Brack- lage hall, we have plenty of tables is taking shape along Biggs Lane RE3 Councils feel strongly that it webcam due to be installed at the of recycling, other items found nell, Reading and Wokingham and chairs and spacious car park and the first new residents are ex- is unfair to ask RE3 area council Reading recycling centre shortly. were an army jerry can, a pouffe Residents Only from 1st July and grounds for use during the pected to move in before the end tax payers to pay for waste man- Both sites are generally less busy and numerous empty bottles of - Announcement from WBC summer. We offer very competi- of the year. A recent exhibition agement services for residents on week days and mid-morning vodka. Unfortunately, the man Waste Services tive rates for regular users. was held to consult on the next from Quadron turned up really living in other local authorities. or late afternoon. During the sum- phase of development, which is mer months (April – September) Further information can be ob- early to collect the rubbish before RE3 recycling centres are intro- adjacent to the A327 and south both recycling centres are open tained from the parish council we were able to take some photos. ducing changes to how visitors Bracknell Forest, Reading and of Tyler Drive. The proposals from 8am to 8pm. web site with photographs of Thank you to Marion Heath and access their sites following the de- Wokingham residents will still suggest that the site to be well the hall plus a calendar with Amanda Dexter for providing the cision by West Berkshire Council be able to leave their household laid out with greenways and availability. Please contact Judith tasty refreshments to the weary to end a joint recycling agreement. waste for free at the Bracknell and History Book allotments forming part of the volunteers. It is disappointing Reading recycling centres. Neuhofer on 979 0296 or email overall scheme. [email protected] that already Barkham Road is From 1st July 2016, the RE3 re- We are delighted to inform you littered with cans and another cycling centres will only accept Every household in the RE3 that the Parish Council now Bohunt School bag of litter from Church Lane household waste from people area will be sent a recycling cen- have a new stock of “Barkham has already been collected by a living in the Bracknell Forest, tre permit in the post. Visitors A History”. The history book The new Bohunt School second- resident. It would be much ap- Reading and Wokingham local should display the permit in their has now been reprinted with a ary school is taking shape rapidly. preciated if residents could pick authority areas. The change has windscreen in order to access the new Foreword which details the Alterations to the former army up any litter from outside their been prompted by West Berk- recycling centres in Bracknell and REME move of the Garrison to gym and library block are nearly houses in order to keep Barkham shire Council giving notice that Reading. Alternative forms of ID RAF Lyneham. If you are new to completed: these buildings will clean and tidy. will be accepted, but checking the area and do not own a copy form temporary accommodation these documents will slow down of the history book they can now for the school in its first year. access so residents are being be purchased from the Clerk for Meanwhile construction of the asked to please use their wind- £8.50 each, or they are on sale at new building is well advanced. screen permit. RE3 aims to carry Henry Street Garden Centre and When the school opens in Sep- out the access checks as quickly Barkham Post Office. tember, there will be at least 100 and efficiently as possible. They new pupils. are vital to ensure fairness and Judith Neuhofer that RE3 residents do not pay Clerk to Barkham Parish Council The next major issue facing the for the processing of waste from school is the question of how the residents in neighbouring local pupils will travel to it. Clearly authorities. it is in everyone’s interests if as many pupils as possible can get there without depending on car travel. In the first instance, the 4 5 ment at Arborfield Green, as the passed to a Planning Inspector for for sites” until the beginning of organisations to submit sites to Garrison is now named. It is further review. When the plan has June. I fear we must brace our- be considered for development. important that this happens in passed all these steps, it will go to selves for a lot of new proposals This call has been reopened – until a way that maximises commu- a referendum at which all eligible coming forward. June 6 - for further sites to be put nity infrastructure such as shops, voters in the two parishes may forward. Can the Neighbourhood Plan medical services, schools, nurs- vote. A majority in favour of the help? eries, open spaces, allotments, plan would then make it a legal The consultations on the HELAA sports and other community planning document that would If we can at least get to the stage methodology and the Call for facilities. Hopefully these will be have to be taken into account in of preparing a draft Neighbour- Sites are on the council’s website: provided in a way that benefits any future planning decisions in hood Plan in the next few months, http://www.wokingham.gov. the wider community, not just the Barkham and Arborfield. Arborfield and Barkham I would hope we can maximise uk/consultations new development. Neighbourhood Plan What has happened so far? our influence on how the Local Plan Update unfolds. We ought to Can a Neighbourhood Plan stop The council is also re-opening the An effort is currently being made You may recall a while back that be aiming to complete the whole development? Changing times Call for Sites to give everyone to reinvigorate the work being a survey of residents was carried approval process, including the the opportunity to submit sites done on the Neighbourhood Plan It is not realistic for us to halt all out in the two parishes. This was referendum stage, well before the suitable for potential develop- for the parishes of Barkham and development, but with a Neigh- the first step in developing the Wokingham Borough Local Plan Wokingham Borough Council Arborfield. There is pressure to bourhood Plan there is a greater Neighbourhood Plan. A lot of update is completed. is currently updating its Local ment. Only those sites deemed get this work completed as soon chance that it will happen in a way useful work has taken place since Plan which will set out where acceptable will be allocated for as possible. It would therefore that recognises the interests of lo- then, in particular a group of resi- I would stress again that a Neigh- new homes need to be built in development. This part of the be timely to remind ourselves of cal residents. A Neighbourhood dents looked at transport issues bourhood Plan is about influence, the borough in the next 20 years Local Plan process is about seeing some key questions about Neigh- Plan is perhaps the most effective which contributed to Wokingham rather than control. The way and residents are invited to help what is available, and agreeing bourhood Plans: way for the local community to Borough decisions on the Arbor- that planning rules are framed in two ways. As a key part of how we assess it. It is important nationally, there is very much a producing a new Local Plan, to note that a site being submitted What is a Neighbourhood Plan? have influence over development field bypass. A greenways group proposals. Unfortunately, it is a has been examining rights of way presumption in favour of devel- the borough council is working does not mean it will be accepted The coalition government, under step too far to expect control. around the two parishes and is opment. The profits to be gained with other Berkshire councils to for development. Many such sites the Localism Act 2011, introduced preparing an improvement plan. by turning a piece of unused or agree a way of assessing what will be deemed unacceptable. the concept of Neighbourhood What is the process for preparing A number of other topics are being agricultural land into a develop- land should be set aside for new a Neighbourhood Plan? ment site are enormous. In this Plans to allow local communities looked at including community homes, businesses and other uses. I cannot stress the importance of situation, communities have to to have greater involvement in facilities, open spaces and flood- This is known as a Housing and this local plan as it will, once in- The Neighbourhood Plan will stand together and exert as much planning decisions and land use ing. Importantly we will also be Economic Land Availability As- spected in public, set the scene for be prepared by local residents, influence as they possibly can. within their individual areas. not just parish councillors. Con- looking at development, which sessment (HELAA) and it guides the future development around of course is a very big issue for The alternative is just to let the Why is a Neighbourhood Plan sequently, anyone living in the how the council decides which the borough up to 2035 on decid- Barkham and Arborfield. tide of development wash over important? parishes who is willing to help, us, which personally I do not land put forward for develop- ing on where new housing is built. they would be welcome to join I have to admit, however, that consider acceptable. ment should be allocated for If parishes have a Neighbourhood one of the focus groups. Help is progress bringing together all the development in the Local Plan. The numbers are such (likely to How can you help? Plan, they can have greater influ- needed with research, to formu- threads to create the Neighbour- be in the region of 860 homes ence in deciding the location of late recommendations and poli- hood Plan has been slow. Part If you are interested in helping A draft HELAA methodology has per year), that my view is new additional housing and in procur- cies and to critique the work as of the problem has been a lack of been produced and local people settlements will be required to ing the additional infrastructure it progresses. More information with the Neighbourhood Plan, focus, as the plans for Arborfield please send an email to Judith can comment on it, between now take the bulk of the housing in improvements that are necessary on volunteering is shown below. Green until recently were still in and June 6. It sets out the way the locations with good transport to preserve their localities as de- Neuhofer, our Parish Clerk at a state of flux. It is now essential council proposes to compare the connections and will have to sirable places to live. How is a Neighbourhood Plan [email protected] approved? that we push ahead and finalise suitability of land put forward have their own infrastructure and What is the scope of a Neigh- the plan. There are a number of focus for development, including its services such as schools, doctors, Some alterations to the plan can groups, in particular those cover- availability and if the develop- retail and Community Centres bourhood Plan? What new development propos- be expected, in order to take ac- ing community facilities, sports ment could realistically be built so no additional strain is placed als can we expect? A Neighbourhood Plan is primar- count of comments received as a facilities and open spaces and in the timescale expected. It also upon existing services in and ily about land use. Policies must result of the formal consultation In the last Newsletter, I warned business development which includes potential community around the borough. Govern- take account of both national could usefully use some addi- process that will be carried out. that we can expect large number benefits, and any adverse impacts ment policy supports this type and local planning policies. The The plan will be then be submit- tional support. of new development proposals on the environment. Land to be of garden village or town ap- Neighbourhood Plan will add an ted to Wokingham Borough who around the parish. At the mo- considered for development are proach and I will be pressing for additional layer of policy to deal may make further comments, Laurence Heath ment, I am not in a position to those put forward in a ‘Call for this during the development and with specific local issues. particularly to ensure consist- Vice Chairman provide you with any firm news Sites’ consultation. One was run planning period of the local plan. ency with borough and national Barkham Parish Council because Wokingham Borough ex- in January and February this continued... Obviously in Barkham we are policies. Next the plan will be faced with a massive develop- tended the deadline of their “call year and invited individuals and 6 7 ...continued roles, I found more and more of Wokingham Choral Society quotes from some well known fin- my time was taken up with deal- ger exercises, which he included Introduction of Land Drainage ing with borough wide issues and Our Summer Concert which will because it was the only way he Byelaws for Wokingham decided with the major once in be held at All Saints’ Church, could force his son to practice a lifetime changes going on in Wokingham on Saturday 18th them! For our concert, we are Wokingham Borough Council Barkham with the new school June 2016 at 7.30pm. For several years, the orchestra throughout the first movement, pleased to welcome back Daniel will soon be applying to the De- and the massive development has held a workshop for string sometimes in an elegiac mood King Smith as our soloist – Daniel on the garrison site, in addition has wowed our audiences on a partment for Environment, Food This year’s Summer Concert players, and in early May we had and later in a much livelier and to the infrastructure required to couple of previous occasions so and Rural Affairs for the approval marks a departure from our a wonderful afternoon playing energetic form. The second support it, that I needed to turn we are looking forward to work- of land drainage byelaws made more classical repertoire, hav- music written specifically for movement is well known for its my attention 100% to these local ing with him again. by the Council in order to help ing instead a dramatic ‘Heroes String Orchestra. A group of 33 haunting melody with harp and matters to ensure the best pos- prevent flooding or to reduce and Villains’ theme comprised of violins, violas, cellos and basses, pizzicato strings introducing the sible outcome for the residents any damage caused by flooding choruses from Opera and Musi- including a welcome number of theme, with cor anglais and horns Tickets for the concert are available of Barkham during this time of in the Borough. cals such as: visiting players, enjoyed a pro- sharing the melody, and later the from Traveltime in Crowthorne change for us all. gramme of music by Scandinavi- strings too in a delightful way. High Street and Bookends in · George & Ira Gershwin – As a Lead Local Flood Authority, an composers, offering people the The uplifting and exciting finale is Peach Street Wokingham (£13 Porgy and Bess WBC will able to make byelaws Remember I am available to chance to explore some of the less full of more wonderful melodies in advance or £15 on the door), to ensure the effective operation provide support for any issues · Stephen Sondheim – The well known string repertoire. We as well as earlier themes revisited or can be purchased on-line via of our land drainage across the you may have with regards to Ballad of Sweeny Todd started with Lars-Erik Larsson’s and masterfully woven together. our website. The ticket includes Borough. These byelaws create the borough council and I am · Kurt Weill – Mack the Knife Little Serenade which was new to This symphony is as marvellous a drink in the interval. As usual always available on the phone or children 16 and under are free. criminal offences which can be · Leonard Bernstein – Make everyone, before moving on to to play as it is for the audience email to deal with any enquiries prosecuted in the Magistrates’ Our Garden Grow the Sibelius Romance in C. Later to hear. or questions you may have with we worked through Dag Wiren’s The orchestra welcomes new Courts and as such bring wel- · Giuseppe Verdi – Witches’ regards to your borough council Serenade for Strings which is huge members subject to vacancies - come additional powers to be Chorus The concert also includes the used by the council. They regulate as it is there to provide services to fun to play! Many people recog- very popular 2nd Piano Concerto if you are interested and are a · Piotr Tchaikovsky – Chorus matters such as changes to flows all the residents of the borough. nised the BBC Monitor theme. Our by Shostakovich, which is quite competent player, even if you of Peasant Girls in watercourses, obstructions, Director of Music, Robert Roscoe, different from most of the Russian have taken a break from play- vegetation, damage to river banks Best regards · Cy Coleman & Dorothy gave us fascinating insights into composer’s other works being ing, please get in touch. We and others which will be of help Fields – Rhythm of Life the works we were playing and uncharacteristically joyful and have a reputation as a friendly to the Council in carrying out its John Kaiser · Frank Loesser – Sit Down into the psychology of sight- exuberant, especially the first bunch and have members of all duties as Highway Authority and Councillor for Barkham You’re Rockin’ the Boat reading music. and third movements. The slow ages. Weekly rehearsals are on Lead Local Flood Authority. Wokingham Borough Council second movement is much more Mondays in term time from 7.45- This performance will be con- Our Summer Concert is on July romantic and is probably the best 10pm at Oaklands Junior School, ducted by our Musical Director, nd During the 6 week period from Email: john.kaiser@woking- 2 at The Old Gym, Wellington known, and rather reminiscent of Butler Road, Crowthorne. Check Patrick Allies with Benedict 16th May 2016, a copy of the land ham.gov.uk College at 7.30pm (doors open at Rachmaninov. The concerto was our website for up to date infor- Lewis-Smith as accompanist. drainage byelaws will be kept at Telephone: 0118 976 2116 6.45) and the programme includes written in 1957 for his son Maxim mation on concerts, rehearsals, Tickets cost £12.50 for adults or £5 www. the Main Reception of the Coun- Mobile 0771 419 2352 some very popular pieces. We will who premiered the work on his workshops and more: for under 18s and students. They th crowthorneorchestra.com cil, Shute End, Wokingham, and be playing a selection of Dvořák’s 19 birthday. The third movement are available in advance from: Berkshire, RG40 1WH and will be ‘Slavonic Dances’ which were includes several sections of scales tickets@wokingham-choral-so- open to public inspection, on any written 1878 and 1886, originally and arpeggios which Shostako- Chris Gadsby ciety.org.uk; Information Centre, weekday during normal office as piano duets, but orchestrated vich is said to have admitted were Wokingham Town Hall; Newbury hours. During the same period, by the composer soon afterwards. Building Society; Wokingham printed copies of the byelaws The dances are amongst his most Bookends, Wokingham; www. will be supplied on demand to memorable works. wegottickets.com , allsaintswok- any person on application to the ingham.yapsody.com (no book- Council. The details can also be The Symphony in D minor by ing fee) or on the door . For further seen on the council’s website César Franck completed in 1888 is details, please visit our website his most famous orchestral work, on www.wokingham-choral- and followed on the success of On a personal note I have decided society.org.uk. to step back from the council’s the equally popular Symphonic executive. Having served on Variations which he composed a Julia Primarolo the executive for 4 years holding few years earlier. The symphony various planning and highways starts with a simple 4 bar theme which is expanded and reworked 8 9 made a profit to put towards the Arborfield Local History through Swindon Town Centre. next event. Society We have now finalised our pro- The children’s Easter Egg Hunt We have recently have had two gramme for the coming year. was attended by about 50 young- very well attended meetings. In Our regular meetings are held on sters ranging from those that were April, after a swiftly concluded the first Monday of each month just about walking to teenagers. AGM, we were entertained by (unless as otherwise stated) in They searched through the grass, Tony Eaton who spoke at length the Arborfield Village Hall com- undergrowth and everywhere about the disappearance of Glenn mencing at 1945. Visitors and else in search of tokens which they Miller. He presented a very con- Guests are welcome when we Social Matters exchanged for small chocolate vincing case for a massive cover make a nominal charge of £2-00 eggs – about 1100 in all. Although up by the US and other authorities per person. It is now three months since the the weather had not been too kind and it seems highly likely that he last newsletter and to date no- over the previous few days it did was killed in Paris by German Our forthcoming programme is body has come forward to take brighten up and they all seemed commandos who were target- as follows: on the position of social secretary. to enjoy themselves. Luckily the ing General Eisenhower. It was a The job is not onerous – it just council had cut the grass and conspiracy theory to end all such June 18th (Saturday) involves discussing future events trimmed back the overgrowing theories and we look forward to Minibus trip to see with the committee and then plants so finding the tokens was Tony coming back next year with Berkshire and Wiltshire booking the hall and arranging not as difficult as it has been in another tale (Amy Johnson or Canal restoration work the food, drink and other items the past. Whilst the children were Leslie Howard, who both disap- with them, for the actual occasion. looking for them, the adults were peared with their aircraft during July 4th It would be a shame if the social able to buy raffle tickets for the gi- the war). Trevor Ottlewski: side of the village was to cease – ant egg and this was won by Gary Wokingham Walk Pt.1 no more quiz evenings and the Hammond and I hope that he and May saw Steve Bacon, until re- (Meet at Methodist children do enjoy the Easter Egg his family enjoyed eating it. cently an Arborfield resident, Church, Rose St. 7.00p.m.) Hunt. Please do give this matter who has now moved to Royal serious consideration – perhaps The next event will be the quiz Wootton Bassett to pursue his August 1st a couple of you could job-share? evening in November and there hobby of canal restoration. He Trip to Bath will be more details in the autumn updated us on the progress with Although I was unable to be newsletter. If in the meantime you the restoration of the little known September 5th present at the skittles evening, I feel that you can help out then Berks and Wiltshire Canal which John & Lindsay Mullaney gather that those who attended please give me a ring or email – linked the Thames at Abingdon Henry I & Reading Abbey had a good time – the report is 977 1579 or [email protected] with the Kennet & Avon Canal by someone who was there and near Melksham. Such is progress they say “the skittles evening was Judith Collins that possibly it will be complete in We hope we have achieved the popular and successful”. Keeping Social Secretary 10 years or so, including a section right mixture of local and more tickets numbers down to below general topics together with a 60 made sure that everyone had fair sprinkling of trips and social a chance to have plenty of turns, events. with time for the “Killer” round to run right through to the end. We have a healthy membership All of those knocked out were of more than 50 and most of our treated to an ice-cream, with meetings attract at least 35 mem- Charlotte Whittington fighting bers and guests. We are always through to the end with her accu- pleased to see new members and rate bowling. Andrew Franklin, more details of our activities can Ruth Timson. Shannon Clarke be found on our web site Arbor- and Charlotte Whittington won fieldhistory.org.uk. the overall competition with their team Four Candles? (Fork Ray Hill Handles?). A good ploughman’s [email protected] supper kept everyone sustained, 0118 9760784 the bar was busy, and the raffle 10 11 Arborfield Gardening As- Our May meeting took us on a delicious refreshments, created birds in the area. The rooks own plus as an experiment I sowed a sociation guided visit to Manor House by Rosamund herself. the territory and a few weeks ago few extra climbing French beans. gardens at Upton Grey. These collected material for nest build- Both are good companions for amazing gardens were designed ing, sometimes yanking nice new sweet corn and the beans should Hello Everyone! July 14th brings an afternoon in 1908 by Gertrude Jekyll, when visit to Farley Hill Place, where whippy shoots from the trees, climb up the sweet corn. I wonder she was 65 yrs old, for Charles the owner, Margaret Finch, perfect for weaving into a nest. how they will get on together; I’ll Following our (short!) AGM, Holme, a leading figure in the who owned the flower shop in They sometimes gang up on the report back next time. Lampa Mortimer, demonstrated Arts and Crafts movement at that Wokingham, will be demonstrat- red kites and crows that often simple techniques for carving time. They have been lovingly ing flower arranging and provid- visit. At the smaller end I love to The vegetables sown outside fruit and vegetables to decorate restored to their former glory by ing us with tea. see a pair of colourful goldfinches are generally progressing well our culinary delights on those Rosamund and John Wallinger, in my patch. outside. Potatoes are showing special occasions - sure to impress Alan’s Patch so that’s another reason to be on who acquired the derelict prop- August 14th will be our members’ family and friends! Lampa is a On pest watch, a rabbit recently ‘frost watch’ for the rest of the erty in 1984. Rosamund’s first (and their guests) garden party, former student of the Reading I find Spring the most enjoyable found a (known) weakness in my month. Peas, broad beans and book, Gertrude Jekyll’s Lost Garden preceded by visits to two local College Catering Dept and is season of all as the apparently defences, so a bit more fortifica- shallots are growing very well. - The Restoration of an Edwardian gardens – goodness summer is currently employed at the Hilton dead landscape comes back to life tion is required! Then a few weeks Parsnips have germinated well Masterpiece, gives an amusing almost over!! In September we Hotel. again and bright daylight returns ago a cabbage white butterfly was but I’m not so sure about the car- are back in the Village Hall for a after the bleak and dark winter found in the greenhouse keen rots, I might need to re-sow some talk on “The Meaning of Flowers” This event was followed in March months. I enjoy the patches of on my spring cabbage inside. of them. Yesterday I harvested the by Colin Oakes, a popular RHS by our very popular Gardeners’ sunshine and rain the same day, We should be getting used to last of the spinach and dug it up. speaker. Question Time at Henry Street even though it is often a bit chilly. the unusual weather and its ef- In its place will go the leeks in the Garden Centre. The question time As so often nowadays we have fects in the garden but Pam was next day or so. panel included: Colin Evans (BBC All our events are advertised had a cold March and April but surprised to find greenfly on the Radio Berkshire’s Gardening Pre- at various popular locations May has seen quite a few unsea- roses in early May. She’s treated It comes as no surprise to hear senter), Alan Goold (Champion throughout the local area. So sonably warm days. Whilst many them twice already. In the field on the radio recently that we are Rose Grower from Henry Street), keep your eyes open and do come flowers have been quite early we occasionally see a pair of roe likely to have a plague of slugs John Negus (author of various along if any appeal. We will be it’s really noticeable that apple deer with their two fawns. and snails. This is mainly a result books on gardening and a kind very happy to welcome you. blossom has been late this year, of a wet and unusually warm win- perhaps delayed by the cold snap In the greenhouse I am already ter. I have my traps in place (half of “agony uncle” for garden- and well-illustrated account of in March. Another reason I like using the shading as we have had oranges and grapefruit shells/ ing problems in some women’s the garden’s history and its res- Happy gardening! Spring so much is that not much some really bright sunny days peels) and deterrents (crushed magazines) and Ray Norton toration (with, adds her husband, has gone wrong yet during this and it soon gets hot inside. This egg shells) around the particu- (Landscaper from Pudding Lane John, all its trials, tribulations Catherine Breen, Chair growing season in my patch! week I have planted the tomatoes larly sensitive plants. Nursery). This knowledgeable and lessons). The garden is now [email protected] group was ably controlled by 0118 976 1848 and aubergine plants into their believed to be the most authen- In March we had frequent visits Last Autumn we collected crab Chris Young, Chair of final positions in the greenhouse tic Jekyll garden in existence - a from a pair of pheasants. It’s takes apples from a tree we planted Horticultural Association and bed. I have some salads ready and living museum of Jekyll design. a lot of effort for them to ‘take off’ nearly 30 years ago and Pam provided an interesting and some carrots are coming on nicely. Afterwards we enjoyed some and get over the fence so while turned them into superb crab sometimes hilarious evening. they were here they would spend As I write this in mid-May, now apple jelly. We will be collecting The raffle raised £130 for Green- most of the day. There must have is the time to decide when to them more diligently this year to fingers - Henry Street’s charity, been plenty for them to eat but plant out the tender crops that I maximise the crop. The rhubarb which creates magical gardens fortunately they showed no inter- have been nurturing so carefully which I transplanted eighteen for Children’s Hospices. est in my plants and young trees. in the greenhouse. The danger months ago has been romping We are fortunate to have lots of of course is of frost. I do recall a away in the recent warm and wet In April we welcomed, Christine damaging frost on 2nd June one weather. Leary, who gave a wonderful talk year but that was so long ago that on Container Gardening, demon- I don’t remember which year that So on the menu at the moment strating not only what and how was! So yesterday was the big are the last few potatoes (which to plant them, but also showing day. I planted out the French and are getting a bit manky now!), some unusual containers and runner beans, sweet corn, but- shallots, parsnips, cabbage, spin- placements. Her husband, Derek, ternut squash and courgettes. I’m ach plus some new salads in the ably judged the Spring Show, delighted to report that they all greenhouse and of course a range Patsy Townsend winning the Best survived their first night outside! of herbs including parsley, sage, in Show cup (again!). I planted some of the butternut rosemary and thyme. squash among the sweet corn 12 13 Anonymity Until Proven Guilty

In the eyes of UK law, we are a cloud of suspicion and her My next thought was to raise the presumed innocent until proven teaching career would never be issue on BBC’s Question Time. I guilty. However, the way our the same again. managed to get a ticket for the mass media works, people are all edition from Ilford in April. On too often connected publicly with To remove any doubt, this story arrival, it was explained how they crimes that they may have had is a work of pure fiction. But it is select their questions, after which Our speaker in April gave a talk absolutely nothing to do with. the type of scenario that seems to it was no surprise that I did not about homelessness in Berkshire. occur worryingly often. If there is get a look in. My shirt and chin She explained some quirks in the Consider this news report: Maeve a real Maeve Dunnett, especially appeared on national television, statistics. Did you realise that to Dunnett, a primary school teacher if she is a teacher, an Andy Chap- but nothing more. It was a fasci- count as sleeping rough the per- from Nottaton, was seen on tenoe, a Vince Dovvit or a place nating evening all the same. Friday being led away from her called Nottaton, I can only offer son has to have their head on the home by police. A bystander, my sincerest apologies. As far as My attention then turned to a ground when they do the count! Andy Chaptenoe, told us that I know, all I have said about them petition, for which the Govern- Her organisation aims to provide a he had heard the police say that is totally false. ment has an on-line facility. If stepping stone from homelessness it was in relation to a child abuse they pick up 100,000 signatures to independent living. In May On May 10th we visited We meet at Barkham Village Hall investigation they were conduct- It is usual not to name minors in their six month life, petitions we held a tea party to celebrate Wokingham Theatre to see “God on the first Wednesday evening ing, but did not know any more ‘for legal reasons’ in the media, almost always get debated in Par- the Queen’s 90th birthday. The of Carnage”. This was a discus- of the month at 7.45pm. Visitors than that. The police declined to so why do we continue to allow liament. The one I submitted in wonderful food was made by sion between two couples and are welcome so if you are new to comment. adults to be damaged in this way? May was rejected because it was members and a lot of fun was there was no blood on the stage! the area why not come along and Late last year I decided to try to too similar to one that had been had by all. We had a quiz, sang meet us for an evening and then The report was straightforward do something about it. songs and held a raffle. We had a running since March. I am now Our two next meeting is on July see if you would like to join. and factual. Nevertheless, be- doing all I can think of to encour- birthday cake with candles and My first move was to write to our 6th - “Queen Victoria’s Colourful cause Maeve had been named, age as many people as possible to Pat McCarthy blew them out on MP, John Redwood, explaining Cousins” by Colin Parrish Pam Edwards complete with where she lived, click on that one’s ‘sign’ button behalf of the Queen. why I would like it to become she became linked in many in its remaining four months. It law for people not to be iden- weather permitting, between 10 people’s minds to child abuse. can be found at https://petition. FARLEY HILL BOWLS We also usually run one Social tified through mass media in and 12 am. Alternatively, if you Imagine the idle conversations parliament.uk/petitions/123777. CLUB NEWS event for our members during relation to crimes, at least until look at our website to see when about what people thought she Please sign it. most months throughout the year. guilt had been proven. I offered we are playing at home you can might have done, with no real We had our Open Day and Plant two exceptions: where the police visit the club, maybe watch the evidence to go on. If you have any other ideas for Sale on Sunday 8th May, a glori- We are at the Victory Hall, Church could justify the publicity for match, have a cup of tea, and furthering my campaign, I would ous summer day, when we had Road, Farley Hill, RG7 1TR. Indeed, all the conjecture led a operational reasons or where the meet some members. really appreciate hearing from 10 visitors who tried their hand For further information please well-meaning Vince Dovvit to affected person makes their own you. at bowls for the first time. visit our website: www.farley- recall something innocent that choice to go public. He took the Our 2016 bowls season is now hillbowlsclub.org.uk or please Maeve had once done and rein- matter up with Mike Penning, the Paul Steel in full swing. We play around 50 contact the Club Secretary - Bill terpret her action. He went on to Minister of State for Policing, Fire, [email protected] Three of them joined our club friendly matches against other immediately, Several are coming Dowling on 01344 772130, or e- report the incident as suspicious Criminal Justice and Victims. Mr local clubs during the season, mail: [email protected] to the police. Penning wrote back explaining Editor’s Note back for another go during one of which finishes in late September. how the system works currently our coaching sessions. These are Paul is a Barkham resident and In fact, Maeve had been collected but showed no inclination to do run mainly for our new bowlers, I encourage local people to air because her daughter had com- anything about improving it. by appointment, on Tuesday and plained about someone at the their views in the Newsletter and Thursday evenings. If you would swimming bath and the police It seemed unlikely that I would perhaps to spark off debate. Paul like to join them for a trial session wanted a parent present when be able to persuade a Newspaper says above that he would like to please contact the undersigned. they talked to her about it. Now, to support my campaign as it hear from you and I also would All you need to have a go is a pair to add insult to injury, Maeve was would restrict their freedom of welcome Barkham residents’ of flat soled shoes to protect the going to face police questioning reporting. Tittle tattle sells a lot comments on this or any other green, trainers will do. about Mr Dovvit’s false allega- of papers. Unfortunately, and matter in future newsletters or via tion. unfairly, by far the biggest cost the Forum facility on the BVRA Otherwise, if anyone would like for this is borne by the named website www.barkham.org.uk to inspect our club facilities, you Following her mention in the individuals. will usually find some members news, Maeve would live under there on Thursday mornings, 14 15 ‘Truly Marvellous!’ HELP PROTECT OUR ONLY VILLAGE PUB Holiday Bible Club (HBC) Where do superheroes come Every week some 27 pubs in the UK are closed and lost forever, but from? Where do they learn? Are with your support we can safeguard The Bull at Barkham by nomi- there such things as superhero nating it as an Asset of Community Value (ACV). This would allow schools? There certainly will residents to have the first say in its future, if ever it came under threat. be at HBC this year, when our theme will be ‘Truly Marvellous’. Luckily, The Bull is already a Grade II listed building, with a history Geddit?! spanning several centuries. The forge, preserved in the dining area, was still in use only thirty years ago. It is also a great visual reminder For over 50 years, HBC has of Barkham’s distinctive character. marked the start of the summer holiday for thousands of local The current landlord has put new life into The Bull as a traditional children. Last year, around 300 pub, a successful restaurant, and a focus for events and activities. youngsters aged 0-14 came along It is a real social asset for the community, as evidenced by the sheer to enjoy the five-day club run number of regular visitors. by the churches of Arborfield, Barkham and Christ Church We must do everything possible to retain The Bull but it can only be Wokingham, and we had a bril- achieved with your support. liant time!

They say one of the marks of Please help support The Bull by email to clerk@barkham-parish- getting old is time passing more council.org.uk, or by signing the petitions at Barkham Post Office, quickly, and I guess that must be or at The Bull itself. Don’t forget to include your name and address. true, because it’s hard to believe Why not do it now? it’s nearly upon us once again. Can’t wait! Everything is gradu- Data protection: Please note addresses will not be divulged to third ally falling into place. All we need parties. Your details will only be used by the Parish Council to keep is you… you informed about the progress of the petition unless you have Might someone you know like to requested otherwise. join us, for crafts, sports, music, games, drama, water sports, the THANK YOU sheer joy of watching leaders BARKHAM PARISH COUNCIL taking the walk of shame into the ‘gunge tank,’ the chance to make new friends and – of course – the opportunity to find out more about who Jesus is and why that even matters? Then please sign them up! HBC this year will run from Monday 25-Friday 29 July, with a morn- ing programme for under 5s and their parents/carers. Once again, we’ll be based on the field at the Coombes School. We’re hugely grateful for their support each year. BOOKINGS ARE NOW OPEN! See www.abch.org.uk for more information and to book places. If you have any questions, please call the church office on 976 0285. 16 17 Loddon Valley Ramblers’ Walks You can also email us on [email protected] Barkham Diary For more walks, including some longer ones, visit Loddon Valley or drop in to one of our offices: Ramblers Website: www.lvra.org.uk Wokingham 2nd floor, Waterford House, Sunday 19th June: A foray through Chobham Common with a pos- Increasingly, people seem to want Erfstadt Court RG40 1AP sible chance to spot a kingfisher. 5½ miles 10:00 am Staple Hill Car to contact us by telephone. So, [email protected] Park, Staple Hill Road, Chobham (GU24 8TU) SU972647 Leader we have put some effort (and www.wokingham-cab.org.uk George S 01344 483508 or 0770 366 2747 (text preferred). spent some money) into making Hours: our telephone service as good as Mon - Thu: 9.00am - 3.00pm Thursday 23rd June: A walk around Arborfield, Great Copse and the Fri: 9.00am - 1.00pm Loddon, through tranquil, gently undulating farmland and woods. we can. 6 miles 10:30 am Arborfield Royal British Legion, Eversley Road; Telephone assessments: 0844 499 4126 permission obtained (RG2 9PR) SU762666 Leader Nick J 0118 932 We have a new, local rate, tel- 8758 or 07785 257992. ephone number that is dedicated Thursday 30th June: Hollowhill, Hog, Widefield, Marlow Common to residents of Wokingham Bor- and Davenport. 4.7 miles 10:30 am Careful edge-of-wood parking ough. This means that if you call around the triangle between Hollowhill and Pullingshill Woods us you will be talking to someone (SL7 2DS approx) SU823861 Leader Dougal M 0118 924 1979 or from the local area, who knows 07719 450283. the local area. There is also a new Thursday 7th July: Explore the Hambleden valley with us: round voicemail facility so that if you are the bottom of Ridge Wood, up through the valley to Great Wood, not answered (we might be busy, or closed) you can leave a mes- AVH is Arborfield Village Hall BVH is Barkham Village Hall Luxters Farm, Jubilee Plantation, back down valley. 6 miles 10:30am CRH is California Ratepayers Hall Public CP behind Stag and Huntsman PH, Hambleden SU785865 sage. The latest we will call you Leader Alan B 0118 961 6595. back is the next working day. The telephone number and operating CJM PLUMBING & DECORATING Wednesday 13th July: Gentle summer evening walk around Finchamp- hours are as shown below for our stead. 3½ miles 18:30 The Queen’s Oak Pub car park (permission Professional, reliable, friendly, local domestic Wokingham office. obtained) (RG40 4LS) SU793639 Leader David T 0118 977 4184 or plumber, tiler & decorator

07899 938397. At the same time we launched NO JOB TOO SMALL – FREE QUOTATIONS – NO CALL OUT CHARGES

Thursday 21st July: A gentle morning amble through the permit- our new website that is much ted paths of Hurst, and Dinton Pastures. 4½ miles Everything from a dripping tap to full bathroom renewals easier to navigate and find things Ceramic floor & wall tiling 10:30am The Wheelwright Arms, Davis Way, Hurst (RG10 0TR). you are looking for. If you want Interior decorating Park there if lunching, or on the road or at Dinton Pastures (pay- to contact us you can now do so Guttering ment) SU786716 Leader Ellen 0118 934 1084 or 0771 555 3979. direct from the website. The new Fully insured

Thursday 28th July: Follow the Thames at Basildon, and lanes, some web address is shown below.

road, one long gradual up, some stiles. 6 miles 10:30 Roadside Hargeaves

Barry and Yvonne Stuart- Yvonne and Barry

parking in front of St Bartholomew’s Church, Lower Basildon If you have a problem with paying 9 For more information please contact Chris or Kylie on:

(RG8 9NH) SU611793 Leader 07429 337369. 01189 733815 or 07827 914748 email: [email protected]

bills, welfare benefits, housing or it. performed Walters

Victoria Wood wrote it, Julie Julie it, wrote Wood Victoria Thursday 4th August: Join us as we follow the quiet lanes and woods employment (or anything else!) 8

in Farley Hill, with open views in Chill Hill, and along three rivers. we can help. We have a free, spe- Prince

5 miles 10:00 Park carefully at the roadside in Church Lane, Farley cialist debt advice service which 7 SunshineSunshine Gardening Gardening Services Services

Hill (RG7 1UL) SU752647 Leader 0118 976 1737 or 07846 434861. Aherne) (Caroline

can help you with debt solutions. “Making“Making gardens gardens more beautiful” more beautiful” The Mrs Merton Show Show Merton Mrs The

Sunday 21st August: An early walk from Pack Horse PH via Caver- If you need any help please con- 6

EMI sham Heath Golf course to Mapledurham, returning via Trench tact us. The sooner the better! 5

Green. Some steepish slopes. If you wish to lunch at the pub af- For all yourFor gardeningall your gardening and landscaping and landscaping needs needs

The Frost Report Frost The terwards it is advisable to book on 0118 972 2140 as it is popular For more information please see 4

at lunchtime on Sundays. 6 miles 09:30 Pack Horse Public House Blankety Blank Blankety www.citizensadvicewokingham. 3 Rely on anRely efficient on an efficientand friendly and servicefriendly service

CP (permission obtained) Upper Woodcote Road, Chazey Heath, org.uk. If you want to talk to us

Severus Snape Severus on right hand side of A4074 coming out of Reading (RG4 7UG) on the phone about anything you 2

SU692782 Leader Mary B 0118 926 7208 or 07557 432878. David Bowie David can call our Adviceline on 0300 1 Please callPlease 0118 call 979 0118 2291 979 2291

Sunday 28th August: Follow the river Pang, then through Sulham 330 1189. www.sunshinegardening.comwww.sunshinegardening.com Woods to Purley and Mapledurham lock, and back along the Answers - Quiz The 22 Thorn22 Close, Thorn Barkham Close, Barkham Thames to Pangbourne. 5½ miles 10:00am Station Road CP, Pang- bourne (RG8 7AR) SU634766 Leader Cathy O 07940 801261. 18 19 French Polishing Modern Finishes ARBORFIELD TREE CARE Repair and restoration of all furniture Removal damage & Insurance work Hedge & Tree Care Free estimates All work guaranteed 0118 973 4959 Sectional Cutting in Confi ned Spaces Mobile 0797 375 9091 Fully Insured / Free Estimates & Advice Vicky's Bodyworks present Body Control all Dangerous Work Undertaken PILATES ‘Pilates is the body conditioning class suitable for all abilities and ages’

By improving posture, reshape your body, relieve tension and create a general feeling of well-being. call Martin on: 0800 0741886 PILATES is medically recommended to help relieve back pain and stress. Call Vicky on 0118 989 2571

The views expressed in this newsletter, unless signed by a BVRA committee member, are not necessarily those of the Barkham Village Residents Association Copyright © 2016 Barkham Village Residents Association. Extracts may be reproduced if the source is acknowledged. 20