ONNYCAMLAD PARISHES Rev. Prebendary Norman Morris, Rector

The Rector writes……The Rector writes...November is our month of Remembrance and in recent years Remembrance Sunday has acquired particular poignancy because of our Armed Services being involved in wars in the Balkans, Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as in more short-lived intervention in such places as Sierra Leone and Libya. We rightly continue to give thanks for those who gave their lives in two World Wars and since in service to their country. Wars are always controversial and its often only with the benefit of hindsight that we get a clearer idea of whether we as a Nation should have been involved - recent interventions have been debatable - but whatever our views , Remembrance Sunday honours the courage and faithfulness of those who sacrificed their lives that we might enjoy and continue to enjoy the freedoms and wonderful opportunities we have in life - its not too much to ask for all us to spare the time to attend a Remembrance Service or ceremony in one of our parishes - let us also continue to pray and work for a better, more peaceful and more just world for everyone!

SUNDAY SERVICES SUNDAY 3 NOVEMBER TRINITY 23 8.00 Holy Communion Lydham 9.15 Holy Communion by Extension Hyssington Canon Julia Francis 9.45 Holy Communion Ratlinghope 11.15 “Saints & Sausages” Churchstoke Community Hall 6.30 “Those we have loved” - Memorial Service for those who have died Churchstoke David Jelves 6.30 NORBURY HARVEST FESTIVAL Preacher: Rt Rev Michael Bourke, former Bishop of Wolverhampton

SUNDAY 10 NOVEMBER TRINITY 24 REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY 10.55 REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY SERVICE CHURCHSTOKE David Jelves 10.30 REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY SERVICE WENTNOR 3.00 ACT OF REMEMBRANCE LYDHAM 6.30 Norbury “Reflections for Remembrance Sunday evening – Readings, Prayers & Hymns “

SUNDAY 17 NOVEMBER TRINITY 25 8.30 Holy Communion Ratlinghope 11.15 Holy Communion More 11.15 Morning Prayer Churchstoke 3.00 Christening More 6.30 “Songs of Praise” Wentnor

SUNDAY 24 NOVEMBER SUNDAY BEFORE ADVENT “CHRIST THE KING” 8.30 Holy Communion Norbury 9.45 Holy Communion Myndtown 9.45 Morning Praise Ratlinghope Lay Led 11.15 Holy Communion Churchstoke 2.30 Hyssington United Service 6.30 “Christ the King” Service More

SUNDAY 1 DECEMBER ADVENT 1 8.00 Holy Communion Lydham 9.15 Holy Communion Hyssington 9.45 Holy Communion by Extension Ratlinghope Canon Julia Francis 11.15 Holy Communion Norbury 11.15 St NICHOLAS SERVICE Churchstoke David Jelves 2.30 United Service Hyssington 6.30 ADVENT SERVICE “FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT” Wentnor

Weekday Morning Prayer at 8.30am on Fridays Join us for a short service at our parish churches. 1 November Churchstoke; 8 November Wentnor; 15 November Lower Snead; Weds 20 November Ratlinghope; 29 November Norbury

Captain Jon Price will be leaving Churchstoke soon to take up a post in the Bangor diocese and there will be an opportunity to thank Jon and Sally for all they've achieved over the past four years and say goodbye at an All Saints Day celebration - "Saints and Sausages" - at Churchstoke Community Hall on Sunday 3 November from 11.15am

LOCAL MINISTRY NEWS: Our Local Ministry Group assists with pastoral visiting and Home Communions across the parishes, meeting monthly to share concerns and pray for those who are in any kind of need. Members of the Local Ministry Group are Anita Bright, Trish Macmullan; Margaret Wallsgrove, Shirley Jones, Bob Berry (Convenor), Canon Julia Francis & Rev Preb. Norman Morris. All concerns and prayers are made in total confidence. Please be in touch with any member if you know of anyone who would like to be visited. Anyone wishing to receive Home Communion please be in touch with the Rector 10588 650244

AUTUMN PCC MEETINGS: Friday 8 November Hyssington PCC Efail Hen 7.30pm; More PCC Wednesday 13 November Wentnor Rectory 7.30pm

AROUND THE PARISHES: NEWS UPDATES:

WENTNOR HARVEST SUPPER "THE CROWN" FRIDAY 15 NOVEMBER 7.30PM ROAST MEAL/PUDDING £10 + Raffle ALL WELCOME! PLEASE BOOK AT "THE CROWN" WENTNOR 01588 650613

LYDHAM “OPEN CHURCH” MORNING “CHRISTMAS CHEER” FRIDAY MORNING 6 DECEMBER – 10.00 – 12.30pm - RAFFLE FOR JOYCE’S SPECIAL CHRISTMAS CAKE! ALL WELCOME! Do pay a visit once you’ve done your Friday Lydham Market shopping

'Lydham Church 100 Club September Draw - winners !st Alan Jones £26.- 2nd Millie Garnier £15.60 3rd Janet Preshous £10.40 Any body interested in joining the 100 club please contact Jimmy Garnier on 01588-638486 or Neil Hird 01588-- 638379. Lydham's Harvest Thanksgiving Service was well attended and the preacher the Very Rev Nicholas Bury, former Dean of Gloucester Cathedral, amused the congregation by including in his sermon an excellent imitation of Peter Cook rendering his famous ‘One day in the life of the Mayfly'.

Following the service Mrs. Shirley Rowson and her team provided to 128 diners an excellent roast beef, pork or vegetarian Annual Harvest Lunch. After providing this annual lunch for seventeen years this was Mrs. Rowson's last Harvest lunch as she feels that it is time to hang up her apron! Both Lydham and More Churches plus the numerous diners who have enjoyed her lunches sincerely thank Shirley Rowson for all her hard work in planning and providing these excellent three course lunches which catered for everybody at very reasonable cost for nearly two decades. The Rev. Norman Morris quite rightly described Shirley's lunches as the best harvest lunches in the county! Thank you Shirley. ' Friday Market: The Friday Market, originally held in Bishop's Castle Town Hall, is now in Lydham Village Hall. Paul Amess, from his Henford nursery, has a wide selection of fruit, vegetables and flowers for sale, Mr. Bun the Baker will has a selection of bread and cakes and Sue Averis has a selection of ethnic giftware Recent excellent news- a fish man ' Grimsby Fish' with a good selection including salmon will now be in attendance early at the Friday Market. Please do support your Friday market it is your market!

Please support Lydham Church's short but very moving Lydham Church’s Remembrance Day Service at 3.00 p.m. on Sunday, 10th November. A brief but moving service when we all remember the thirty six Lydham men, six of whom gave the final sacrifice, who served our country in the First World War and those who served in the Second World War, when one was killed in North Africa. Mr. David Preshous will recite poems and Mr. Corwen Yapp, the parish's last surviving WW11 serviceman, will lay the wreath at the parish War memorial. All are welcome to this service.

The future of Shropshire's NHS medical Services Dr Caron Morton, the chair of Shropshire's County Clinical Commissioning Group (the CCG is responsible for deciding what NHS services will be offered by whom and where in the County), gave an interesting talk to Bishop's Castle Hospital Equipment Fund members in which she outlined the CCG's medical objectives. Every 36 hours the NHS nationally treats one million people but costs are rising. One problem faced in Shropshire with a population of 290,000 is that the percentage of elderly people is higher than the national average. Life expectancy is also higher than the national average but the number and variety of medical services required by the county’s growing elderly population is also growing. Dr Morton explained that unfortunately the six A & E consultants available at Shrewsbury Hospital is half the number required. To provide a satisfactory seven days a week A&E service Shrewsbury should have 12 consultants. This shortage of A & E consultants is a serious national problem. Recruiting and retaining nationally A & E consultants is very difficult. Statistics show that the obesity level in 16 year olds is too high. Almost 25% of them are classed as obese. One reason for this risk to their health is the lifestyle factor of youngsters' excessive calory consumption caused by eating the wrong food and failing to take enough exercise.

Future challenges include meeting higher demand for services, bringing care closer to home in what is a rural county and supporting folk in the community. Dr Morton talked of the need to develop a joint 'Clinical Services Strategy' Programe to develop options for the future of local hospital services. The Hospital Equipment Fund's trustees are to see how additional services or out patient clinics from Bishop's Castle Hospital could assist the Shropshire CCG in achieving the objectives of its Clinical Services Strategy programme.'

A new book has recently come on the market about the war memorials of Shropshire titled ‘Sites of Remembrance’. It includes references to many of the churches and villages in our Deanery. The author is Peter Francis who has been attending local churches with his wife Julia, one of our Readers, for a number of years now. During his research, Peter has visited more than 800 Shropshire memorials and tells the story of each one in the book as well as taking a glimpse at the men and women listed on them. Well known writers, military leaders and VC winners are there as well as local men who simply saw the need do their duty for king and country. He also looks at the broader picture including the history of remembrance back to classical times, some of the surprisingly famous architects and sculptors involved in the construction of local memorials, those in schools and colleges as well as some of the more unusual memorials (including a footbridge, football trophy and locomotive). Peter’s book (at £14.95 with free p&p) is available from his blog: www.shropshirewarmemorials.blogspot.com or by ringing 01686 688895.

More monthly Draw September 1st Nancy Beamond 2nd David Wright 3rd Lorraine Tomkinson October 1st Jane Semple 2nd John Green 3rd Rachel Owen Ratlinghope 200 Club Winners: August: Ian Langford - £20 Lexi Hardham - £15 Jenny Burdette - £5 September: Tom Evans - £20 Jill Fildes - £15 Joyce Cooke - £5. Thank you everyone for joining us at our Harvest Festival, it was a very happy occasion. Your generous donations of money, totalling £120 will benefit the African Village Support, and gifts of produce and household products will be gratefully received by the Clun Community Larder Project. Thank you also to our visiting Preacher, Reverend Jo Evans for his inspiring sermon. Onny Valley Social Club: This Club usually meets on the first Tuesday afternoon in the month at Norbury Village Hall 2.30pm. New members welcome. Club Leader: Doris Roberts 01588 638570 Future outings:

Age UK Lunches for those 60 & over at the Crown Inn, Wentnor, 12 Noon for 12.30pm Normally SECOND WEDNESDAY AND THIRD TUESDAY in the month. NEXT LUNCH is WEDNESDAY 13 NOVEMBER - to book this meal please ring Rachel Bright 01588 650242. NEXT TUESDAY LUNCH is 19 NOVEMBER - to book please ring Margaret Cooke 01588 650280 Mrs. Janet Brandon on 01588 650232 – is your Age Concern Parish Link – who will be pleased to help you. NORBURY & DISTRIST WI: Thursday 14th November Speaker: Jane Pugh "A surprise” Hostesses: Janet Brandon, Margaret Wells & Wendy Oakley Flowers: Pauline Philips Competition: Decorative Box Visitors are always made welcome.

LYDHAM, MORE & SNEAD WI: THURSDAY 21 NOVEMBER AGM 7.15pm Speakers Janet & David Preshous Competition Autumn Leaves Teas Doris & Margaret

FROM THE REGISTERS: Christening: James Dunn Hughes Churchstoke 22 September Wedding: Robert Micklem & Louisa Garnier More 21 September Funerals: Marjorie Elizabeth Robinson (95) Churchstoke 11 September Phyllis Daisy Lewis (85) Churchstoke 26 September

FROM THE MAGAZINE TWENTY YEARS AGO: Bishop Ian retired as Bishop of Ludlow: Deanery magazine was going up in price to £3.50p.a. (its only £5 p.a. still !); the “Heart of Wales” line was under threat; Churchstoke’s own Nativity Play “The Three Roses “ performed from the 1930s to 1970s was due to be revived; Barney Bell had attended his first Harvest Festival in the Clungunford parishes;

TABLE TENNIS! Now in action! Open to all! Anyone wanting a good game! Taking place Mondays at Norbury Village Hall 2- 3pm for details contact The Rector 01588 650244 BENEFICE BOOK GROUP: Contact: The Rector BIBLE STUDY GROUP: New members always welcome! Contact: The Rector 01588 650244 Currently studying “Micah” Friday 22 November at 4.00pm Rectory Onny Valley Social Club: This Club usually meets on the first Tuesday afternoon in the month at Norbury Village Hall 2.30pm. New members welcome. Club Leader: Doris Roberts 01588 638570 Tuesday 5th November “Christmas Decorations with Eileen “ – have a go making your own CHURCHSTOKE “OVER-SIXTIES”: Meet alternative Wednesdays 3.00pm Churchstoke Community Hall contact: Margaret Chislett 01588 620310, From Lesley Thomas, Parish Clerk: The Myndtown Combined Parish Council dates: x4 Parish Meetings-7pm, 11th Nov, at Norbury Village Hall at 7.30pm.

FLOWERS/CLEANING: (From now on notification will be through the churches) Find out what is going on across the Hereford diocese at the website at www.hereford.anglican.org - have a look at the Notice board. For details of service times at the Cathedral, please telephone 01432 374212 or visit the cathedral website www.herefordcathedral.org. Want a Magazine? Know someone who would like one? Please encourage sales & distribution! Please contact Margaret Cooke 01588 650280 (Shropshire & Snead parishes) Myndtown Combined Parish Council Contact: Parish Clerk Mrs. L Thomas 01588 650509. Wentnor Stores: The Post Office OUTREACH service is OPEN on TUESDAY 9.00AM – 11.00am - offering personal banking, Car Tax & Euros- please support our village shop WENTNOR STORES as much as possible! Bus enquiries: 0870 241 2 216 National Rail Enquires: 08457 484950 Hall Bookings: Norbury 650660 Anita (or if need be Rev Norman Morris 650244) – Lydham 638737 – Hyssington Village Hall: 01588 620197 - do use our halls! Norbury Village Hall: Tables, chairs, hostess trolley, crockery, & boiler available for hire 01588 650660 The Rector is always available to discuss Wedding and Christening dates at any time Office Hour: Saturday morning at The Rectory 9-10am. Tel: 01588 650244. House Communion is available to anyone who cannot easily get to Church. Photocopying at The Rectory: 5p per sheet – reductions for longer runs. Bishop’s Castle Dial-a-Ride and Community Car scheme: Available for individuals or groups regardless of age or disability. All journeys must be pre-booked. Volunteer drivers and escorts urgently required for this worthwhile community service. Contact: Adrian Varcoe or ring 01588 638350.

The Rector writes…… This past month saw the Bishop of Hereford, Rt. Rev Anthony Priddis retiring and the process of appointing his successor get underway. It’s not a quick process, I hasten to add! Not like the Church of Rome which took a fortnight to find a Pope and the Church in Wales far less time to find Bishops! Our lengthy consultative processes give the Holy Spirit, who is the Ultimate Selector, plenty of time of time to consider candidates - in fact it might not be before early summer 2014 before an announcement is made! So why do we have Bishops? An editorial like this can't give a long answer so a short answer will have to do! Bishops are part of the three Orders of Ministry which we Anglicans have inherited from the Early Church and which we still share with the Roman Catholic and Orthodox churches - bishops have their seat in Cathedrals which are the Mother Church of the Bishop’s diocese and they act as Father in God to their Clergy and People - interestingly there's a High Church missionary idea that you send out a bishop and he's the Church which grows around him! For the moment let's pray for those charging with finding our next spiritual leader - the 105th Bishop of Hereford!

SUNDAY SERVICES FRIDAY 4 OCTOBER 6.30pm MYNDTOWN HARVEST FESTIVAL Preacher: Rev Keith Crouch

SUNDAY 6 OCTOBER TRINITY 19 8.00 Holy Communion Lydham 11.15 Morning Prayer Churchstoke Canon Julia Francis 11.15 HARVEST FESTIVAL MORE Rev Robert Payne 3.00 HARVEST FESTIVAL HYSSINGTON Preacher: David Jelves 6.30pm HARVEST FESTIVAL RATLINGHOPE Preacher Rev Jo Evans

SUNDAY 13 OCTOBER TRINITY 20 8.30 Holy Communion Ratlinghope 9.45 Holy Communion Wentnor 11.15 Holy Communion Churchstoke 11.15 Holy Communion More Rev Jo Evans 6.30 Evening Prayer Norbury 6.30pm Harvest Festival Hyssington Methodist Chapel

SUNDAY 20 OCTOBER TRINITY 21 8.30 Holy Communion Wentnor Rev Jo Evans 11.15 Morning Prayer Churchstoke David Jelves 11.15 Morning Prayer Lydham Canon Julia Francis 6.30 Evening Prayer Ratlinghope Rev Sarah Hare

SATURDAY 26 OCTOBER WEDDING: David Whittock & Kiatsi Beauclerk Norbury 2.00pm

SUNDAY 27 OCTOBER TRINITY 22 9.45 Holy Communion Wentnor 9.45 Morning Praise Ratlinghope Lay Led 10am United Service Hyssington Jean Blaine 11.15 Holy Communion Churchstoke

SUNDAY 3 NOVEMBER TRINITY 23 8.00 Holy Communion Lydham 9.15 Holy Communion by Extension Hyssington Canon Julia Francis 9.45 Holy Communion Ratlinghope 6.30 “Those we have loved” - Memorial Service for those who have died Churchstoke David Jelves 6.30 NORBURY HARVEST FESTIVAL Preacher: Rt Rev Michael Bourke, former Bishop of Wolverhampton

Weekday Morning Prayer at 8.30am on Fridays Join us for a short service at our parish churches. 4 October Hyssington; 11 October Norbury; 18 October Lydham; 25 Ocotober More; 1 November Churchstoke.

AUTUMN PCC MEETINGS: Friday 4 October Myndtown PCC (very informal following H F) Myndtown Hall Farm 7.30pm Monday 7 October Wentnor PCC The Rectory 7.30pm Thursday 11 October Norbury The Barns 7.30pm Tuesday 15 October Churchstoke PCC The Vicarage 7.30pm Friday 18 October Snead PCC Lower Snead 1.30pm Friday 18 October Lydham PCC Lydham Village Hall 7.00pm Wednesday 23 October More PCC The Rectory 7.30pm Friday 8 November Hyssington PCC Efail Hen 7.30pm

AROUND THE PARISHES: NEWS UPDATES: Thanks to all those who supported Christian Aid Week back in May. “Wentnor parishes” raised £307.65p – Bishop’s Castle & District raised £2,726.18p

As I said last month, the Wentnor Fete which supports the parishes of Wentnor, Ratlinghope, Norbury & Myndtown & NorburyVillage Hall went extremely well, thanks to everyone, and the NET PROFIT was £4,552.89. Our thanks to Alan Brandon who produced a full set of accounts which have been sent to the four PCCs. Results from Draws, Stalls etc are as follows with 2012 figures in brackets – recall 2012 was cold and windy! £50 Note (Colin) (£50.00) £50.00: Books (£51.00) £129.50; Bowling (£64.00) £73.45; Bric a Brac (£404.00) £579.55; Cakes (£355.00) £339.70; Children’s Corner (nil) £16.23; Coconuts (£27.00) £63.90; Dog Show (£33.00) £54.22 Draw Tickets - adv sales (£676.00) £625.70 including Rounders; Draw Tickets - on the day (£277.00) £354.00 Hog Roast (£180.00) £421.17; Ice Cream (nil) £48.52; Magnum (£355.00) £350.00; New (£111.00) £143.90 Plants (£116.00) £185.10; Preserves & Produce (£157.00) £25.10; Skittles (£51.00) £79.50; Teas (£244.00) £450.05; Tombola (£462.00) £496.80; Donations (£71.00) £66.50

SNEAD We have winners of the balloon race! The furthest flight was 150 miles to Suffolk.

LYDHAM NEWS Winners Lydham '100' Club August draw - 1st David Jones £26.-, 2nd Mrs. Marion Denwood £15.60, 3rd Miss Milly Garnier £10.40. Anybody wishing to join Lydham's worthwhile 100 Club please contact Jimmy Garnier tel 01588-638486 or Neil Hird tel 01588-638379. Please support Lydham Church's short but very moving Remembrance Day Service at 3.0 p.m. on Sunday, 10th November when we shall remember the thirty six Lydham men who served in World War 1, six of whom gave the final sacrifice, and those who served in World War 11 when one Lydham service man was killed in North Africa. Corwen Yapp, who served right across Northern Europe with an R.A.M.C. Field Ambulance Unit, will lay the wreath at the parish's War memorial. Friday Market: The Friday Market, originally held in Bishop's Castle Town Hall, is now in Lydham Village Hall. Paul Amess, from his Henford nursery, has a wide selection of fruit, vegetables and flowers for sale, Mr. Bun the Baker will has a selection of bread and cakes and Sue Averis has a selection of ethnic giftware Do support your local market.

DEANERY TRAINING DAY SATURDAY 12 OCTOBER Clun High Town Rooms 9.30am – 1.00pm on “LEADING WORSHIP” – Come an d share experiences of leading Lay Led worship and find out more about how we can creatively use our country churches for all kinds of Prayer and Worship! All are welcome!

NORBURY’S ANNUAL QUIZ FRIDAY 25 OCTOBER 7.00 for 7.30pm INN ON THE GREEN WENTNOR

Age UK Lunches for those 60 & over at the Crown Inn, Wentnor, 12 Noon for 12.30pm Normally SECOND WEDNESDAY AND THIRD TUESDAY in the month. NEXT LUNCH is WEDNESDAY 9 SEPTEMBER - to book this meal please ring Rachel Bright 01588 650242. NEXT TUESDAY LUNCH is 15 OCTOBER - to book please ring Margaret Cooke 01588 650280 Mrs. Janet Brandon on 01588 650232 – is your Age Concern Parish Link – who will be pleased to help you. NORBURY & DISTRIST WI: THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER Speaker: john Hayden “Astronomy” - Hostesses: Janet Brandon, Doris Roberts, & Liv Goode Flowers: Monica Collins Competition: Photograph of Night Sky (taken by you). LYDHAM, MORE & SNEAD WI: THURSDAY 17 OCTOBER Hot Air Ballooning. Speaker Lindsay Muir. Competition A Brass Ornament. Teas Barbara & Janet & Others. Visitors Invited – Raffle – Bring & Buy. November 21st: Meeting 7.15pm. “40 Years On” Speakers Janet & David Preshous. Competition Autumn Leaves. Teas Jaqui & Margaret . December 12th: Lunch at The Green 12.30 for 1pm

FROM THE REGISTERS: Christening: Hector Beresford de Vito Hird Snead Saturday 31 August Weddings: Paul Jones & Rachel Owen Churchstoke Saturday 24 August 12 Noon Adrian John Meyrick & Veronica Louise Pryce Wentnor Saturday 7 September Funeral: “Mitt” Nancy Yvonne Matthews (90) Bishop’s Castle 20 August Marjorie Elizabeth Robinson (95) Churchstoke 11 September

FROM THE MAGAZINE TWENTY YEARS AGO OCTOBER 1993 The Bishop of Hereford, Rt Rev John Oliver addressed the issues a involved in Wars taking place in the former Yugoslavia, the recent losses incurred by the Church Commissioners in property generated sharp debate with Brigadier AS Shaw calling for the closure of General Synod as the Church should be governed by God, not my “majorities”, selling off Church House, reducing number of Bishops by half, disbanding all Suffragan Bishops & boosting the Parish Priests and selling all valuable Church property to make up for the losses!; the Lanfair wakes went well with £1339 being raised for the Church and Hall; Sarn had a highly successful Flower Festival with £200 being raised; Clun Tower was enveloped in scaffolding fro repairs; Barney Bell thanked everyone for his welcome to the Clungunford parishes.

TABLE TENNIS! Now in action! Open to all! Anyone wanting a good game! Taking place Mondays at Norbury Village Hall 2- 3pm for details contact The Rector 01588 650244 BENEFICE BOOK GROUP: Tuesday 15 October Wentnor Rectory 3.30pm Contact: The Rector BIBLE STUDY GROUP: New members always welcome! Contact: The Rector 01588 650244 Next meeting 3.30pm Friday 11 May “Looking at the Minor Prophets who were they, beginning with Micah “ CHURCHSTOKE “OVER-SIXTIES”: Meet alternative Wednesdays 3.00pm Churchstoke Community Hall contact: Margaret Chislett 01588 620310, From Lesley Thomas, Parish Clerk: The Myndtown Combined Parish Council dates: x4 Parish Meetings-7pm, 9th Sept & 11th Nov, all at Norbury Village Hall at 7.30pm.

HYSSINGTON NEWS Sunday Services: 6 October 3pm St Etheldreda’s Harvest Festival David Jelves A collection will be made for the Diocesan Food Bank Appeal (please see the posters in Church) 13 October 6.30pm Chapel Harvest Festival in the Chapel David Hardham Monday 14 October 7.30pm Harvest Sale and Supper in the Chapel 27 October 10am United Service in St Etheldreda’s Jean Blaine Friendship Club October 14th Gingerbread House Demonstration Mrs. J Powell Social Club October 24th Willow Demonstration Rosie Bennett Pilgrimage Friday and Saturday 1st and 2nd November ‘Soul Searching’ a two-day walking Pilgrimage in the Clun Forest Deanery This will finish on the 2nd at St Etheldreda’s with tea and cakes at Lower House. Please contact Margaret Wallsgrove if you would like to join in with some or all of this experience.

This is to remind you that the next gathering for the Marches Spirituality Network will be on THURSDAY OCTOBER 10, 2013 The theme will be: THE SEARCH FOR SELF-IDENTITY / R.S.Thomas: Speaker: Revd Mike Catling The meeting will be at the Ludlow Conference Centre (Bishop Mascall) Start 9.30 for 10.00, Finish 3.30 The cost for the day will be £15.00 including light lunch and tea/coffee Booking is open now at: the Ludlow Conference Centre Lower Galdeford, Ludlow, SY8 1RZ Cheques To be made payable to THE BISHOP MASCALL CENTRE FOUNDATION Further information can be obtained from C.C.PRICE 01746712398 (if not in please leave name and number on answer-phone. Please do not ring after 8.00 p.m.) Following meetings have been arranged for: Thursday May 1 2014: Revd Dr John Bell - The Psalms Thursday October 9 2014: Bryan Podmore: Theme: Martin Buber

ONNYCAMLAD PARISHES Rev. Prebendary Norman Morris, Rector of Wentnor with Ratlinghope, Norbury, Myndtown, Lydham, More & Snead, & Priest in charge of Churchstoke & Hyssington & Rural Dean 01588 650244 David Jelves, Reader 01588 620434 Captain Jon Price “Fresh Expressions” Community Evangelist 01588 620693 Canon Julia Francis, Reader The Rector writes…… We have the Wentnor Flower Festival coming up the second July weekend and I hope it will be well-supported across the OnnyCamlad parishes and beyond. Lots of preparation and hard work has been going on for many weeks and I am sure Wentnor Church will be a wonderful floral spectacle! The choice of subject - Nursery Rhymes - is original and intriguing - we shall learn a lot, I am sure, and be reminded somewhere along the line of life that once we were all children, though that may be a long way back! Nursery rhymes were one of those early influences, paralleling, I guess, when many of us were introduced to the Christian Faith. That's when the story of our lives started - so maybe our Flower Festival focusing on Nursery rhymes will also remind us of the importance of childhood as a crucial time to learn of faith and values which give us order and purpose for the whole of our adult lives. Childhood is so important for beginning to learn about the Christian Faith.

SUNDAY SERVICES

SUNDAY 30 JUNE TRINITY 5 10.30 – 1100am BENEFICE PET SERVICE Myndtown (followed by a short Holy Communion Service 11.10am) 6.30 Evening Prayer More BANNS (2) Thomas Boyston and Emily Williams

SUNDAY 7 JULY TRINITY 6 9.15 Holy Communion Hyssington 9.45 Family Communion Ratlinghope Canon Julia Francis 11.15 Morning Praise Churchstoke David Jelves 11.15 Family Communion Norbury Canon Julia Francis 11.15 Christening Lydham 6.30 Evening Prayer Wentnor

SATURDAY 13 JULY WEDDING Andrew Smith and Samantha Hunt time 12 Noon Churchstoke SUNDAY 14 JULY TRINITY 7 8.30 Holy Communion Norbury 9.15 Morning Praise Hyssington Canon Julia Francis 9.45 Holy Communion Ratlinghope 11.15 Holy Communion Churchstoke Banns (1) Paul Jones and Rachel Owen 11.15 Morning Praise Lydham Canon Julia Francis BANNS (3) Thomas Boyston and Emily Williams 6.30 WENTNOR FLOWER FESTIVAL EVENSONG PREACHER: BISHOP OF HEREFORD

SUNDAY 21 JULY TRINITY 8 8.30 Holy Communion Ratlinghope 10.00 Holy Communion Snead 11.15 Morning Praise Churchstoke David Jelves 11.15 Holy Communion More Rev Jo Evans Banns (2) Paul Jones and Rachel Owen 2.30 Hyssington “Open Church & Churchyard” Service Preacher: BISHOP OF LUDLOW 6.30 Evening Prayer Wentnor Banns (1) Adrian Meyrick and Veronica Pryce

SUNDAY 28 JULY TRINITY 9 8.30 Holy Communion Norbury 9.45 Ratlinghope Morning Praise Lay Led 11.15 Holy Communion Churchstoke Banns (3) Paul Jones and Rachel Owen 1.30 Christening Myndtown 6.30 Evening Prayer More Margaret Hill Memorial Service Banns (1) Louisa Garnier and Robert Micklem

SATURDAY 3 AUGUST WEDDING Thomas Boyston and Emily Williams 3pm More

SUNDAY 4 AUGUST TRINITY 10 9.15 Holy Communion Hyssington Canon Julia Francis 9.45 Family Communion Ratlinghope Rev. John Daniels, Local Ministry Officer 11.15 Holy Communion Norbury Rev. Jo Evans 6.30 Evening Prayer Wentnor Rev. John Daniels Banns (2) Adrian Meyrick and Veronica Pryce

FRIDAY 9 AUGUST WEDDING: Steven Marpole and Rachel Jamison 1pm Wentnor SATURDAY 10 AUGUST 3.00pm Christening (Isla Cahan) Norbury SUNDAY 11 AUGUST TRINITY 11 8.30 Holy Communion Ratlinghope 9.45 Holy Communion (extended) Wentnor Canon Julia Francis Banns (3) Adrian Meyrick and Veronica Pryce 11.15 Holy Communion Churchstoke 11.15 Holy Communion More Jo Evans Banns (2) Louisa Garnier and Robert Micklem 6.30 Songs of Praise Norbury

SUNDAY 18 AUGUST TRINITY 12 9.45 Holy Communion Ratlinghope 9.45 Morning Praise Wentnor David Jelves 11.15 Morning Praise Churchstoke Canon Julia Francis 6.30 “SONGS OF PRAISE” & DEDICATION OF KNEELERS SNEAD Banns (3) Louisa Garnier and Robert Micklem

SATURDAY 24 AUGUST WEDDING: Paul Jones and Rachel Owen 12 Noon Churchstoke

SUNDAY 25 AUGUST TRINITY 13 8.30 Holy Communion Norbury 9.45 Holy Communion Myndtown 9.45 Ratlinghope Morning Praise Lay Led 10.00 Hyssington United Service

SUNDAY 1 SEPTEMBER TRINITY 14 8.00 Holy Communion Lydham 9.15 Holy Communion Hyssington 9.45 Family Communion Ratlinghope Canon Julia Francis 11.15 Morning Praise Churchstoke David Jelves 11.15 Family Communion Norbury 6.30 Evening Prayer Wentnor

Invitation to the Clun Forest Deanery to attend Choral Evensong & Supper at Hereford Cathedral on Thursday 5th September 5.30pm. Names to Preb. Norman Morris, please 01588 650244

Weekday Morning Prayer at 8.30am on Fridays Join us for a short service at our parish churches. 28 June Churchstoke; 5 July Wentnor: 12 July Myndtown; 19 July Snead; Wednesday 24 July Ratlinghope; 2 August Hyssington; 9 August Norbury; 16 August Lydham; 23 August More; 30 August Churchstoke

LOCAL MINISTRY NEWS: On Sunday 12 May at Lydham Church at 10.30am we held our Special Service at which the Bishop of Hereford attended and re-commissioned our Local Ministry Group. This was an important occasion for our benefice and I am grateful to all those who came and supported this occasion. As I said last month, the pastoral and worshipping life of all our parishes has been enhanced by those involved in Local Ministry over the past nine years. Its good news we now enter a new Local Ministry phase focusing on pastoral visiting and Home Communions, meeting monthly to share concerns and pray for those who are in any kind of need. Members of the Local Ministry Group members are Anita Bright, Trish Macmullan; Margaret Wallsgrove, Shirley Jones, Bob Berry (Convenor), Canon Julia Francis & Rev Preb. Norman Morris. All concerns and prayers are made in total confidence. Please be in touch with any member if you know of anyone who would like to be visited. Anyone wishing to receive Home Communion please be in touch with the Rector 10588 650244

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Friday 28th June 8.00 p.m. Leasowes Bank Farm, Ratlinghope ‘Words and Music’ A concert for Ratlinghope Church Chris Eldon-Lee and The Men From Off Tickets £6.00 (to include a glass of wine) 01743 790769 (Men from Off are replacing the Corndon Singers as previously advertised. The Singers will give their concert for Ratlinghope Church later in the year)

The date for the next Upper Onny Country Show has been confirmed as Sunday 13th July 2014, and in 2013 the committee will be holding a fund-raising ceilidh on Saturday 29th June. The band Salop Galop from Shrewsbury will be playing and doors will open at 7.30pm, with dancing starting at 8. Tickets will cost £7 and there will be a bar and barbecue to keep the dancers (and non-dancers!) going. Planning is well under way for the 2014 show, but the committee would welcome new members. We meet about every 6 weeks, and the next meeting dates are 22nd May 2013; 17th July 2013; 11th September 2013; All at 7.30pm at The Crown, Wentnor

SATURDAY 13TH & SUNDAY 14TH JULY 2013 10 am to 5 pm 24 FLORAL DEPICTIONS OF FAVOURITE NURSERY RHYMES AT ST MICHAEL’S CHURCH WENTNOR

CHILDREN [AGED 11 AND UNDER] ARE INVITED TO DRESS UP AS A CHARACTER FROM THEIR FAVOURITE NURSERY RHYME PRIZE GIVING FOR BEST COSTUME AT 4.30PM ON SUNDAY COFFEE & TEA WITH HOME-MADE CAKES ALL DAY PLOUGHMAN’S LUNCH CRAFT, CAKE AND PLANT STALLS HISTORICAL WALK WILL LEAVE AT 11AM AND 2PM BOTH DAYS WITH AMUSING AND INFORMATIVE COMMENTARY. CHILDREN’S STORY TOLD BY THE AUTHOR ON SUNDAY 3PM RAFFLE DRAWN SUNDAY 5.00 PM CHILDREN FROM NORBURY SCHOOL WILL PERFORM A RECITAL AT 4.00 PM ON SUNDAY AND THERE WILL BE LIVE ORGAN MUSIC AND OTHER RECORDINGS THOUGHOUT THE FESTIVAL. 6.30PM SUNDAY FLOWER FESTIVAL EVENSONG PREACHER: BISHOP OF HEREFORD Victoria Cockburn Tel: 650454 email: [email protected] Angela Turner Tel: 650352 email: [email protected]

Everyone Welcome ! BALLOON RACE and DOG SHOW in aid of SNEAD CHURCH With stalls, refreshments and raffle. SUNDAY 11 AUGUST at CHURCHSTOKE COMMUNITY HALL at 2.30pm Balloon tickets available from Karen. For further information contact Trish Macmullan on 01588620275

The Wentnor Fete, Fun Dog Show & Annual Draw Bank Holiday Monday 26 August in aid of the parishes of Wentnor, Ratlinghope, Norbury & Myndtown (& Norbury Village Hall) takes place on Bank Holiday Monday 26 August in the grounds of the Old Rectory Wentnor, Usual attractions, including a Bouncy Castle, beginning with a Hog Roast at 1.00pm. Offers of homemade cakes, nearly new items, tombola prizes, garden produce, plants, raffle prizes, and help on the day are most welcome. Plants, vegetables, & homemade cakes are popular so offers will be gratefully received. Rose Jones & Lorna Middleton need tombola prizes, please. Further details; please contact the Rector 01588 650244. Good quality second-hand books, including children’s books, likely to sell, wanted - please contact the Rector 01588 650244 Tombola items can be left at Wentnor Shop. Gilly and Rita down at The Walkmill will be on “Bric a Brac” We especially need more homemade cakes – please respond to the flyers going round the parishes PLEASE SUPPORT THE DRAW!

Shropshire Historic Churches Festival of Churches Weekend – Sat 14th & Sun 15th September 2013 “Step Back in Time at St Margaret’s, Ratlinghope” We invite you to visit our beautiful church in unspoilt countryside, to share our memories of special occasions and festivals held over the last 25 years. Light refreshments also available. 10am-4pm both days Everyone is warmly invited to join us for a Songs of Praise Service on Sun 15th at 9.45 am

AROUND THE PARISHES: NEWS UPDATES:

Many parishioners of More and beyond will have been saddened to learn of the death of Margaret Hill and its been decided to have a Memorial Service for her on Sunday 28 July at More Church at 6.30pm

Snead TAI CHI NEWS: TAI CHI beginners class; Thursday mornings from 10.30 am to 12 noon; At Hyssington Village Hall; £5 per session; Contact: Pam Blaxland 01588 638145 or [email protected] Balloon Race & Annual Dog Show in aid of Snead Church Sunday 11 August at 3pm Churchstoke Community Hall

St. Peter’s More Benefice More P.C.C. wish to thank Sarah Screen for hosting our very successful Strawberry Cream Tea, a sum of £400 was raised and thanks to everyone who supported a very enjoyable afternoon. Marion and Frank would also like to thank all members of the Benefice Choir who attended rehearsals and performed for the sung Evensong which was enjoyed by everyone present. Results of the June Monthly Draw 1st Sue Shearman £20; 2nd Trevor Rowson £10; 3rd Ray Heighway £5

LYDHAM NEWS Anybody interested in joining the 100 Club please contact Neil Hird 01588-638379 or Jimmy Garnier 01588- 638486 Church - 100 Club Friday Market: As from Friday, 5th April the Friday Market, originally held in Bishop's Castle Town Hall, has been held in Lydham Village Hall. Paul Amess, from his Henford nursery, has a wide selection of fruit, vegetables and flowers for sale, Mr. Bun the Baker will has a selection of bread and cakes and Sue Averis has a selection of ethnic giftware Do support your local market.

Onny Valley Social Club: This Club usually meets on the first Tuesday afternoon in the month at Norbury Village Hall 2.30pm. New members welcome. Club Leader: Doris Roberts 01588 638570 Future outings: Heart of Wales Railway Wednesday 17 July; Gloucester Cathedral Wednesday 21 August; Blenheim Palace Wednesday 18 September; Port Sunlight Wednesday 16 October.

Age UK Lunches for those 60 & over at the Crown Inn, Wentnor, 12 Noon for 12.30pm Normally SECOND WEDNESDAY AND THIRD TUESDAY in the month. NEXT LUNCH is WEDNESDAY 10 JULY & 14 AUGUST - to book this meal please ring Rachel Bright 01588 650242. NEXT TUESDAY LUNCH is 16 JULY & 20 AUGUST to book please ring Margaret Cooke 01588 650280 Mrs. Janet Brandon on 01588 650232 – is your Age Concern Parish Link – who will be pleased to help you.

NORBURY & DISTRIST WI: THURSDAY 11 JULY GARDEN MEETING Evening out; "In the garden" with Carol Buxton at Marehay Farm - Bring & Buy Hostesses: Margaret Cooke, Brenda Jones, & June Pinches Competition: Quiz THURSDAY 8 AUGUST Walk: with June Pinches 6.30pm from the Hollies, Ratlinghope Refreshments All participants LYDHAM, MORE & SNEAD WI: THURSDAY 18 JULY "Birds in your Garden" Speaker: Mr. John Arnfield Competition: A Specimen Bloom Teas: Daphne & Doris Report on NFWI AGM No WI meeting in August

FROM THE REGISTERS: Christening: Grace Louise Hockly Churchstoke Sunday 20 June Weddings: Constantine Topouzis & Alice Catherine Bluhm Saturday 1 June Wentnor Steven Philip Jones & Deborah Jane Parks Friday 31 May Wentnor

TWENTY YEARS AGO! Stephanie Watson left Bishops Castle to become Asst. Chaplain at Durham Prison; Rev Barny Bell was due to be inducted to the Clungunford parishes; the Bishop of Hereford wrote about the RC rural church in France and how few priests there were - in a Normandy diocese of Evereux, larger than Hereford, there were only 70 clergy 2/3rds over 65; Rev Richard Shaw at Clun wrote about the challenges buildings represented; Rosemary Morris wrote of a trip to Singapore and Malaysia; The Annual Wentnor Parish Cricket was due to be played on Saturday 14 August at Norbury Village Hall; Wentnor Fete raised £1722; Hyssington had a new Hassock project; Churchstoke was having a Festival of Little Steam Railways; Sarn was due to have a Flower Festival

TABLE TENNIS! Open to all! Anyone wanting a good game! Often taking place Mondays at Norbury Village Hall 2- 3pm for details contact The Rector 01588 650244 BENEFICE BOOK GROUP: Contact: The Rector 650244 Tuesday 2 July 5.00pm Crofton “Down & Out in Paris and London” George Orwell (and optional “Homage to Catalonia”); BIBLE STUDY GROUP: New members always welcome! Contact: The Rector 01588 650244 Next meeting 4.00pm Friday 21 June “Prophet Micah “ CHURCHSTOKE “OVER-SIXTIES”: Meet alternative Wednesdays 3.00pm Churchstoke Community Hall contact: Margaret Chislett 01588 620310, From Lesley Thomas, Parish Clerk: The Myndtown Combined Parish Council dates: x4 Parish Meetings-7pm, 8th July, 9th Sept & 11th Nov, all at Norbury Village Hall at 7.30pm. TABLE TENNIS! Open to all! Anyone wanting a good game! Often taking place Mondays at Norbury Village Hall 2- 3pm for details contact The Rector 01588 650244 BENEFICE BOOK GROUP: Contact: The Rector 650244 Tuesday 2 July 5.00pm Crofton “Down & Out in Paris and London” George Orwell (and optional “Homage to Catalonia”); BIBLE STUDY GROUP: New members always welcome! Contact: The Rector 01588 650244 Next meeting 4.00pm Friday 21 June “Prophet Micah “ CHURCHSTOKE “OVER-SIXTIES”: Meet alternative Wednesdays 3.00pm Churchstoke Community Hall contact: Margaret Chislett 01588 620310, From Lesley Thomas, Parish Clerk: The Myndtown Combined Parish Council dates: x4 Parish Meetings-7pm, 8th July, 9th Sept & 11th Nov, all at Norbury Village Hall at 7.30pm.

Many parishioners of More and beyond will have been saddened to learn of the death of Margaret Hill and its been decided to have a Memorial Service for her on Sunday 28 July at More Church at 6.30pm. Rev Norman Morris writes…”When I arrived in 2000, Margaret was a tower of strength at More and beyond, not only for the Church but also for the WI, charities, especially for the RNLI – she daily locked and unlocked the church, had a huge magazine round, was an active PCC member, and well before we had any Local Ministry Team, was really a “More LMT” herself with her interest and care of people, especially newcomers to the parish!

Her family has written this tribute.”Margaret was born on 25th June 1925 at Dover Castle where her father commanded the local garrison. She had an elder sister Geraldine, a younger sister Diana and a younger brother Richard. In 1927 the family to Bredon in Worcestershire and Margaret attended Whichcrest School in Malvern. From there she went to Roedean which was relocated to Keswick during the 2nd world war. After leaving school she had to look after her two younger siblings as her mother had joined the WRAF at the outbreak of war. Margaret's passion was to become a nurse and she started at St Thomas's at the age of nineteen. These were the days when the sisters ruled the wards with iron discipline. At St Thomas's she met and consequently married Dr Alan Calder and together they had Alastair, Adrian, Andrew and Anthony. It was while they lived at Deal that she took an interest in the WI and rose to become president of the East Kent branch. She acted in many plays for the WI, organised countless fundraising events as well as giving talks, visiting other branches and encouraging women to forge a life of their own choosing. Her husband become the doctor for the Deal and Walmer lifeboat and Margaret started on her 'career' as a shore-side fundraiser. The marriage eventually ended in divorce and in 1979 she met Marcus Hill while she was working as a nurse in Tonbridge Wells. Together they travelled to many exotic parts of the world and settle at More House where they spent many happy years. At More Margaret carried on with her fundraising for the RNLI often roping Marcus in to help with her latest scheme until he passed away in 1993.

After his death she continued with interests in the WI and RNLI but as age caught up with her she had to gradually relinquish her charitable responsibilities. In 2011 she moved to Powys almost in Snowdonia, to be closer to her family and died with her son at her bedside and two of her eleven grandchildren in the house.”

ONNYCAMLAD PARISHES Rev. Prebendary Norman Morris, Rector of Wentnor with Ratlinghope, Norbury, Myndtown, Lydham, More & Snead, & Priest in charge of Churchstoke & Hyssington & Rural Dean 01588 650244 David Jelves, Reader 01588 620434 Captain Jon Price “Fresh Expressions” Community Evangelist 01588 620693 Canon Julia Francis, Reader 01743 790910 The Rector writes…… June is coming up and may we have some summer weather please! Can't be altogether sure but somewhere along the line "global warning" became "climate change" to accommodate the vagaries of the weather which seems to have turned forever cold and wet lately rather than the expected warming! Nonetheless, summer events are looming up and Wentnor will be having a Flower Festival second week of July so we look forward to that, and there are the usual open gardens, strawberry teas, and fetes to enjoy, and the Rector is busy with weddings and christenings too! Yes the usual round of life goes on but let's try to remember behind life itself there is one to whom we owe everything and who deserves our thanks - God Himself- never imposing His presence but undergirding our world and sustaining our lives - do keep in touch with Him through daily prayer and please support His Church!

SUNDAY SERVICES FRIDAY 31 MAY WEDDING: Steven Jones and Deborah Parks time 12 Noon Wentnor SATURDAY 1 JUNE WEDDING Constantine Topouzis and Alice Bluhm 2pm Wentnor SUNDAY 2 JUNE TRINITY 1 8.00 Holy Communion Lydham 9.15 Holy Communion Hyssington (Canon Julia Francis) 9.45 Family Communion Ratlinghope (Rev Jon Daniels) 10.30 Family Worship Churchstoke BANNS (1) Andrew Smith and Samantha Hunt Churchstoke 11.15 Family Communion Norbury 3.00 Christening Churchstoke (Grace Hockly) 6.30 Evening Prayer Wentnor

SUNDAY 9 JUNE TRINITY 2 8.30 Holy Communion Ratlinghope 9.15 Morning Praise Hyssington (David Jelves) 9.45 Holy Communion Wentnor 11.15 Holy Communion Churchstoke BANNS (2) Andrew Smith and Samantha Hunt Churchstoke 3.00 Interment of ashes (Williams) Wentnor 6.30 MORE FESTIVAL EVENSONG Preacher: Mette Wardle BANNS (1) Thomas Boyston and Emily Williams

SUNDAY 16 JUNE TRINITY 3 8.30 Holy Communion Wentnor 10.30 CONFIRMATION SERVICE Rt. Rev. Alistair Magowan Bishop of Ludlow Churchstoke BANNS (3) Andrew Smith and Samantha Hunt Churchstoke 6.30 Evening Prayer & “Blessing of the Restored Church Porch” Norbury

SUNDAY 23 JUNE TRINITY 4 8.30 Holy Communion Norbury 9.45 Holy Communion Lydham 9.45 Morning Praise Ratlinghope Lay led 10.00 Hyssington United Service 11.15 Morning Praise Churchstoke David Jelves 3.00 Hereford Cathedral Evensong Preacher: Preb Norman Morris

Friday 28th June 8.00p.m.Words and Music A Concert for Ratlinghope Church Chris Eldon-Lee and The Men From Off

SUNDAY 30 JUNE TRINITY 5 10.30 – 1100am BENEFICE PET SERVICE Myndtown (with short Holy Communion Service 11.10am) 6.30 Evening Prayer More BANNS (2) Thomas Boyston and Emily Williams

Weekday Morning Prayer at 8.30am Join us for a short service at our parish churches. 31 May Hyssington; 7 June Norbury; 14 June Lydham; 21 June More; 28 June Churchstoke.

Instead of the usual Annual Parish Cricket Match, it is proposed to have an Inter-Parish Rounders Day on Saturday 21 June at Norbury Village Hall from 12 Noon.

On SUNDAY 30 JUNE let your PETS bring you to Myndtown at 10.30am for a BENEFICE PET SERVICE!

Meeting to discuss the forthcoming “Wentnor Fete” on Bank Holiday Monday 26 August, which supports the Wentnor. Ratlinghope, Norbury , Myndtown churches & Norbury Village Hall will take place on Tuesday 4 June at 7.30pm at Wentnor Rectory. It will not be a long meeting but please could we could we have representatives from all the parishes attending and all the usual Stallholders, please…thanks.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

NATIONAL GARDENS SCHEME MAREHAY FARM GARDEN RATLINGHOPE SUNDAY 9th JUNE 2013 11.00am – 6.00pm £3 Adults – Children free TEAS – PLANTS

SNEAD CHURCH Picnic in the churchyard Saturday 15 June 11 - 5 Our church was originally the site of an Augustinian Priory - one of the smallest churches in the Onny Camlad benefice, even locals don't know it exists or where to find it ! Also one of the smallest churches in Montgomeryshire at the boundary between England and Wales Please leave cars in the layby on the A489 alongside the Welcome to Wales sign. Walk down the lane beside the black and white cottage, turn left through the gateway and follow the green path, a warm welcome and a (non alcoholic) drink will await you. For further information call 01588620275

WENTNOR FLOWER FESTIVAL 2013 JULY 13th – 14th

Victoria Cockburn Tel: 650454 email: [email protected] Angela Turner Tel: 650352 email: [email protected]

Coming soon! Balloon Race and Annual Dog Show in aid of Snead Church Sunday 11 August at 3pm Churchstoke Community Hall

AROUND THE PARISHES: NEWS UPDATES:

Many parishioners of More and beyond will have been saddened to learn of the death of Margaret Hill and its been decided to have a Memorial Service for her on Sunday 28 July at More Church at 6.30pm

SNEAD APCM marked Pam Blaxland's retirement as Church Warden with heartfelt thanks for all her hard work, ably assisted by Simon. Pam continues to tend "God's Acre” which is so important for this quiet place of worship. Natasha Hird was welcomed as the churchwarden to work alongside Trish and the band of helpers who clean the church and help with fundraising. A special mention was made of the kneelers worked by Karen Jones in memory of her grandparents. Snead TAI CHI NEWS: TAI CHI beginners class; Thursday mornings from 10.30 am to 12 noon; At Hyssington Village Hall; £5 per session; Contact: Pam Blaxland 01588 638145 or [email protected]

The Norbury Village Hall Project Progress with the Lottery Bid We are still waiting for the Lottery to decide if the project can progress to the next stage. We have had a conversation with our project ‘Sponsor’ from the Lottery who will present our case to the Board. He was very interested in the ‘story’ of the Hall and the important place it holds in the life of all our villages, he was enthusiastic about the plans for the Hall and the amount of support there is for the development and our hopes for involving local people at every stage of the project. So now it is a question of waiting until mid June when we will hear the results of the Board’s deliberations. Some of you may have heard a piece about the Village Hall on Radio Shropshire recently, they will be covering the project as it progresses.

Oliver’s Moscow Marathon Oliver Goode is flying out to Moscow on 2nd June with his bicycle with the aim of biking back to Norbury, visiting most of the sites of battles that took place during Napoleon’s Retreat from Moscow. He is cheating a bit by getting a train to the Baltic coast from Minsk, but the whole trip is just less than 3,000 miles and should take him between 6 and 8 weeks dependant on wind and his level of energy! He wants to help raise a bit of money for the Village Hall fund along the way, so, if you would like to sponsor his ride go to the ‘Just Giving’ website and follow the prompts. He will be keeping a log of the journey and hopes to be able to keep you in touch with his progress.

Ratlinghope Monthly Draw: 1st - Richard Langford - £20; 2nd - Sheila Smith - £15 3rd - St Margaret's Church, Ratlinghope - £5 (anon)

Herewith the winners of the monthly More Draw for both March and April 2013: March 1st. Prize.(£20.00).Jan Shelley (128) 2nd.Prize.(£10.00).Charlie Morris (172) 3rd.Prize.(£5.00 ).Ray Hall(81) April 1st.Prize(£20.00).Liz Jones (52) 2nd.Prize(£10.00).R.Tanner(33) 3rd.Prize(£5.00).Kevin Bickley(96)

Onny Valley Social Club: This Club usually meets on the first Tuesday afternoon in the month at Norbury Village Hall 2.30pm. New members welcome. Club Leader: Doris Roberts 01588 638570 Future outings: Wednesday 19 June; Aberystwyth Wednesday 19 June; Heart of Wales Railway Wednesday 17 July; Gloucester Cathedral Wednesday 21 August; Blenheim Palace Wednesday 18 September; Port Sunlight Wednesday 16 October .

Age UK Lunches for those 60 & over at the Crown Inn, Wentnor, 12 Noon for 12.30pm Normally SECOND WEDNESDAY AND THIRD TUESDAY in the month. NEXT LUNCH is WEDNESDAY 12 JUNE - to book this meal please ring Rachel Bright 01588 650242. NEXT TUESDAY LUNCH is 18 JUNE to book please ring Margaret Cooke 01588 650280 Mrs. Janet Brandon on 01588 650232 – is your Age Concern Parish Link – who will be pleased to help you.

AROUND THE WIs: Norbury & District WI: THURSDAY 13 JUNE Speaker: Kirstie R Barton "The allure of Japanese Vintage Kimono" (Lots of trying on!) Hostesses: Sally-Anne Jones, Kath Hughes & Sue Pinches Flowers: Maureen Walker Competition: A sumptuous silk item Lydham, More & Snead WI: THURSDAY 20 JUNE Garden meeting at 5 Lonsdale Drive Meole Brace at 7.00pm Home of Betty Redge "My travels with a Steam Engine" Speaker: Jane Semple No Competition Teas Betty & Shirley TABLE TENNIS! Open to all! Anyone wanting a good game! Often taking place Mondays at Norbury Village Hall 2- 3pm for details contact The Rector 01588 650244 BENEFICE BOOK GROUP: Contact: The Rector 650244 Tuesday 2 July 5.00pm Crofton “Down & Out in Paris and London” George Orwell (and optional “Homage to Catalonia”); BIBLE STUDY GROUP: New members always welcome! Contact: The Rector 01588 650244 Next meeting 4.00pm Friday 21 June “Prophet Micah “ CHURCHSTOKE “OVER-SIXTIES”: Meet alternative Wednesdays 3.00pm Churchstoke Community Hall contact: Margaret Chislett 01588 620310, From Lesley Thomas, Parish Clerk: The Myndtown Combined Parish Council dates: x4 Parish Meetings-7pm, 8th July, 9th Sept & 11th Nov, all at Norbury Village Hall at 7.30pm.

TWENTY YEARS AGO! Midsummer Rejoicing weekend had Appalachian Dancers and a Juggling workshop; Rev Stephanie Watson from Bishop’s Castle was due to become a Durham Prison Chaplain; Newcastle on Clun was having a big Village Weekend in June; Clungunford was having a Flower Festival for the Bell Fund; Sarn was getting close to raising its repair funds; Clun Gardens were open as usual. FROM THE REGISTERS: Christening: Emily Rose Vince Wentnor Sunday 5 May Olivia Ann Jane Williams Churchstoke 12 May Wedding; Matthew Lee Gurden & Hannah Kristina Harding Ratlinghope Saturday 4 May Funeral: Vivienne Cound (65) Shrewsbury Crematorium Monday 29 April

The Rector writes……As we all know the rural church scene has changed markedly over the years with incumbents having to look after six or more parishes where their predecessors had a couple at most! However help has been at hand as Churchwardens and PCCs have risen to the challenge and taken on an even more active role - in recent years we have had the growth of Local Ministry Teams, now known as Local Ministry Development Groups. In our OnnyCamlad parishes we have benefited from Local Ministry since we enlarged to nine parishes in 2004. Local ministry has helped with worship, mission, pastoral care, and provided a strategic view of where our churches might be heading - it’s been a good partnership with the incumbent. Our Local Ministry Group is now in its second incarnation and will be re-commissioned by the Bishop of Hereford at a special service at Lydham on Sunday 12 May at 10.30am. Specifically, the Group now focuses on Prayer, Visiting and Home Communions - we are grateful to past and present members who have so generously given their time to the good work of ministry. All are welcome to come to the Lydham service to support our Local Ministry Group!

SUNDAY SERVICES SATURDAY 4 MAY WEDDING Matthew Gurden & Hannah Harding 12 Noon Ratlinghope

SUNDAY 5 MAY EASTER 5 Rogation Sunday 8.00 Holy Communion Lydham 9.15 Holy Communion Hyssington 9.45 Morning Praise Ratlinghope (Canon Julia Francis) (Ratlinghope “Beating the Bounds” after the service 10.30 Family Worship Churchstoke 11.15 Family Communion Norbury 1.00 Christening Wentnor (Emily Medlicott) 6.30 Evening Prayer Wentnor

THURSDAY 9 MAY ASCENSION DAY 6.00pm Holy Communion Hyssington (meet at Church 6.00pm to be outside for the Ministry of the Word)

SUNDAY 12 MAY SUNDAY AFTER ASCENSION DAY Christian Aid Week begins 10.30 Benefice Local Ministry Team Re-Commissioning Service Lydham Celebrant & Preacher: Bishop of Hereford Lydham, followed by reception at Lydham Village Hall 3.00 Christening Churchstoke (Olivia Williams)

SUNDAY 19 MAY WHITSUNDAY/PENTECOST 8.30 Holy Communion Ratlinghope 10.00 Holy Communion Snead 11.15 Morning Praise Churchstoke (David Jelves) 11.15 Holy Communion More (Ministry of the Word Canon Julia Francis) 6.30 Evening Prayer “Christian Aid Theme” Wentnor

SUNDAY 26 MAY TRINITY SUNDAY 8.30 Holy Communion Norbury 9.45 Holy Communion Myndtown 9.45 Morning Praise Ratlinghope 11.15 Holy Communion Churchstoke 2.30 Hyssington United Service 6.30 Evening Prayer More

FRIDAY 31 MAY WEDDING: Steven Jones and Deborah Parks time 12 Noon Wentnor SATURDAY 1 JUNE WEDDING Constantine Topouzis and Alice Bluhm 2pm Wentnor

SUNDAY 2 JUNE TRINITY 1 8.00 Holy Communion Lydham 9.15 Holy Communion Hyssington (Canon Julia Francis) 9.45 Family Communion Ratlinghope 10.30 Family Worship Churchstoke 11.15 Family Communion Norbury 3.00 Christening Churchstoke (Grace Hockly) 6.30 Evening Prayer Wentnor

Weekday Morning Prayer at 8.30am Join us for a short service at our parish churches. 3 May Wentnor; 10 May Myndtown; 17 May Snead; Wednesday 22 May Ratlinghope; 31 May Hyssington; 7 June Norbury.

LOCAL MINISTRY NEWS: We have had a Local Ministry Team (now called a Local Ministry Development Group) for more than six years and it was reformed last year. On Sunday 12 May at Lydham Church at 10.30am there will be a Special Service which the Bishop of Hereford will attend and re-commission our Local Ministry Group. This is an important occasion for our benefice and I hope as many people as possible will come and support this occasion. The pastoral and worshipping life of all our parishes has been enhanced by those involved in Local Ministry over the years so its good news that our diocesan bishop is coming to re-launch Local Ministry in our parishes for the years ahead. Members of the Local Ministry Group members are Anita Bright, Trish Macmullan; Margaret Wallsgrove, Shirley Jones, Bob Berry (Convenor), Canon Julia Francis & Rev Preb. Norman Morris The Group focuses on Prayer, Pastoral Visiting and Home Communions, meeting monthly to share concerns and pray for those who are in any kind of need. All concerns and prayers are made in total confidence. Please be in touch with any member if you know of anyone who would like to be visited. Anyone wishing to receive Home Communion please be in touch with the Rector.

EVENING AT HEREFORD CATHEDRAL: 5th September Clun Forest Deanery is invited to attend a special, short, evening service, just for Clun Forest, at 7 pm, followed by a 2 course supper with wine. Spaces are limited to 50 people and it was agreed that each benefice group will nominate 12 people. The Deanery will hire a 50 seat coach. The coach will aim to arrive at 6.30pm for 7pm. Costs will be paid by the deanery. Places are limited as we say – first come, first served – if interested please phone the Rector 01588 650244

CONFIRMATION: A Confirmation Service will be taking place for our parishes on SUNDAY 16 JUNE at 10.30 am at Churchstoke. The Rt. Rev. Alistair Magowan Bishop of Ludlow will officiate. Confirmation is open to all, young and old alike, above the age of 10 or 11 years, and enhances and completes our membership of the Church which began at our Christening. We usually form small groups or sometimes see candidates in their homes. Do think about this – Confirmation is for all ages – so please do talk to the Rector if you are thinking of being confirmed. 01588 650244.

Congratulations to Sue Jones on the 25th Anniversary of Harvest Whole Foods at Lydham – a great achievement!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

SUNDAY 5 MAY EASTER 5 Rogation Sunday 9.45 Morning Praise Ratlinghope – followed by Ratlinghope “Beating the Bounds “ & Picnic All Welcome to join in from all parishes! Wednesday 8 May 7.30pm v Ratlinghope meeting at “The Coppice” about the “Festival of Churches “weekend 14/15 September Monday 20 May Archdeacon’s Visitation for Clun Forest & Pontesbury Deaneries for all Churchwardens at Edgton Village Hall at 7.00pm

SATURDAY 18 MAY “Christian Aid Week” Coffee Morning in support of Christian Aid at Robery Ring Farm, Prolley Moor (home of Anita) 10.30 -12 Noon All Welcome!

NATIONAL GARDENS SCHEME MAREHAY FARM GARDEN RATLINGHOPE SUNDAY 9th JUNE 2013 11.00am – 6.00pm £3 Adults – Children free TEAS – PLANTS

SOUTH WEST SHROPSHIRE GARDEN CLUB Please note that South West Shropshire Garden Club has changed the venue for its meetings and for its annual flower show. As Lydbury North hall is no longer available, meetings will in future be held in Clun Memorial Hall, commencing at 7.30pm. Visitors are very welcome at a charge of £3. On 22 May Fiona Grant will talk on the 'History of the walled kitchen garden'. Details of all the club's activities can be found on the club's blog at swsgc.wordpress.com and non members are welcome to take part in outings and in the garden show, this year being held on 31 August. If you want a schedule for the show, or have any other queries, please email [email protected], or ring Heather Williams on 01588 650610

Take a stroll to SNEAD CHURCH and have a PICNIC in the churchyard. SATURDAY 15 JUNE from 11 - 5 The smallest church in Montgomeryshire sited alongside the River Camlad that marks the boundary between England and Wales. The churchyard has been tended for many years to fulfil the “Caring for God’s Acre” philosophy. There will be music and a chance to see inside the vestry. A truly “hidden church” For further information call 01588620275

WENTNOR FLOWER FESTIVAL 2013 JULY 13th – 14th

We have endeavoured to deliver the flyer below to all in the Wentnor parish. If you were missed we apologise, or if you have mislaid your flyer, please use the copy beneath

NAME: ______

Address: ______

Tel No: ______

Email: ______

WOULD YOU BE WILLING TO MAKE or GIVE ITEMS for the following?

CRAFTS Y / N

CAKES Y / N

PLANTS Y / N

HOME-MADE PRESERVES Y / N

REFRESHMENTS Y / N

Would you be willing to help on any of the above, on either day? Y / N

Would you like to buy a garden tub, planted up with summer flowers Y / N At a cost of £10 complete? We will be delighted to receive your response by May 31st, it can be left at Wentnor Village Shop For any further information about the Flower Festival please contact Victoria Cockburn Tel: 650454 email: [email protected] Angela Turner Tel: 650352 email: [email protected]

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETINGS (APCMs) These AGMs of the churches have taken place so thanks to all those who have been elected to PCCs for another year and to those who have kindly been willing to accept office for another year.

Onny Valley Social Club: This Club usually meets on the first Tuesday afternoon in the month at Norbury Village Hall 2.30pm. New members welcome. Club Leader: Doris Roberts 01588 638570 Future outings: Cadbury World Wednesday 17 April; Bodnant Gardens (NT) Wednesday 19 June; Aberystwyth Wednesday 19 June; Heart of Wales Railway Wednesday 17 July; Gloucester Cathedral Wednesday 21 August; Blenheim Palace Wednesday 18 September; Port Sunlight Wednesday 16 October .

AROUND THE PARISHES: NEWS UPDATES:

Snead TAI CHI NEWS: TAI CHI beginners class; Thursday mornings from 10.30 am to 12 noon; At Hyssington Village Hall; £5 per session; Contact: Pam Blaxland 01588 638145 or [email protected]

LYDHAM NEWS Anybody interested in joining the 100 Club please contact Neil Hird 01588-638379 or Jimmy Garnier 01588- 638486 Church - 100 Club Friday Market: As from Friday, 5th April the Friday Market, originally held in Bishop's Castle Town Hall, will be held in Lydham Village Hall. Paul Amess, from his Henford nursery, will have a wide selection of fruit, vegetables and flowers for sale, Mr. Bun the Baker will have a selection of bread and cakes and Sue Averis will have a selection of ethnic giftware Do support your local market.

From Lesley Thomas, Parish Clerk: The Myndtown Combined Parish Council dates: x4 Parish Meetings-7pm, 13th May-AGM, 8th July, 9th Sept & 11th Nov, all at Norbury Village Hall at 7.30pm. The District and Local Parish Council Elections take place in May.

Age UK Lunches for those 60 & over at the Crown Inn, Wentnor, 12 Noon for 12.30pm Normally SECOND WEDNESDAY AND THIRD TUESDAY in the month. NEXT WEDNESDAY LUNCH IS 8 MAY to book this meal please ring Rachel Bright 01588 650242. NEXT TUESDAY LUNCH is TUESDAY 21 MAY to book please ring Margaret Cooke 01588 650280 Mrs. Janet Brandon on 01588 650232 – is your Age Concern Parish Link – who will be pleased to help you.

AROUND THE WIs: Norbury & District WI: THURSDAY 9 MAY Norbury Village Hall Speaker: CAROLYN HILL “Colour me beautiful” Hostesses: Dilys Owen, Shirley Betton, & Rose Jones Flowers Thelma Hanmer; Competition: Colourful scarf. Lydham, More & Snead WI: THURSDAY 16 MAY Outing to Shrewsbury Trip on Sabrina River Cruiser No Competition Please ring written suggestions of speakers and competitions for our 2014 Programme.

TWENTY YEARS AGO! Alan Denyer wrote on “suffering”, especially in the light of the Civil War in Bosnia; an invitation was issued for ideas to improve the magazine; Francis and June Carlos were planning to walk to all “seven churches” for the Historic Churches Trust in September; Norbury FC beat Bishop’s Castle FC in the semi-final of the John Barnet Cup; Terry Bryan described “May” as a month of Gifts! Sarn had a new Church Lamp; the former Clungungford Vicar Paul Welch was inducted to Wellingborough Church, Northants; Rural Action Initiative was caring for Lydbury North Churchyard.

FROM THE REGISTERS: FUNERALS: Ian Allan (93) Shrewsbury Crematorium Monday 25 March Gwendolen Mary Unwin (91) Ratlinghope Friday 5 April

Our sympathies to the Cooke family - Ian Allan (sister of Audrey Cooke of Hardwick) was born in Finchley, north London, the third of four children. The family moved to Epping, then Manuden in Essex and finally to Bishop’s Stortford where Ian attended Bishop’s Stortford College. He started studying zoology at Clare College, Cambridge, but was called up into the army in 1940 and sent to Burma as a captain in the Royal Signals. He later recalled that he was luckier than most in that he only had to walk a hundred miles through the jungle, living on soya beans and river water, as the Japanese advanced This resulted in a long stay in hospital when he reached India and, after a further spell in hospital in Cambridge, he resumed his studies at Clare in 1945. He graduated with a degree in Natural Sciences in 1949 and joined the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries. He eventually became Chief Inspector of Fisheries in England and Wales and was also Director of the Salmon and Freshwater Research Laboratory. He was elected Fellow of the Institute of Biology and Fellow of the Institute of Fishery Management. He retired in 1982 having become Senior Principal Scientific Officer. Whilst at Cambridge he met Anka Husum who was working there as an au pair and they were married in Grundstvig Church, Copenhagen in August 1948. They bought the Larkins, Much Hadham in 1953. After many years of happy marriage, during which the Larkins became a favourite destination for their nieces and nephews, Anka suffered a stroke and after several years of disability she died in 1996.

Ian was a man who lived life to the full. His interests ranged from shooting and fly fishing to playing the banjo and investigating crop circles. After he retired he took up oil painting with typical gusto and was joint founder of the Much Hadham Art Society. Ian left a warm and lasting impression on everyone who met him and the most frequent comment is “he was a real gentleman”.

The Rector writes….This time of year, we have our annual general meetings of the churches - not occasions that cause a mass stampede it has to be said! But they are important occasions when thanks can be expressed for all the hard work put in by Churchwardens, PCCs and congregations of all our many country churches, keeping them going, and providing a ministry of love and care to everyone! And that really is everyone! As Archbishop William Temple once said “the Church of England is the only society which exists for the benefit of those who aren't its members!” Well perhaps overdrawn but we do try to be there and available! But we always need more support to provide this wonderful service year in year out! Please come forward and help - there's always something for everyone to do!

SUNDAY SERVICES GOOD FRIDAY 29 MARCH 10.30 Liturgy for Good Friday Churchstoke (Jon Price) 6.30pm Good Friday “At the Foot of the Cross” Lydham HOLY SATURDAY 30 MARCH 7.30pm Easter Vigil Hyssington (Preb M Pollit)

EASTER SUNDAY 31 MARCH 8.30 Holy Communion Ratlinghope BANNS (1) Matthew Gurden & Hannah Harding 9.45 Holy Communion (extended) Norbury (David Jelves) 10.00 “Easter Praise” & Holy Communion Snead 10.00 “Easter Praise” Hyssington (Afrianne Jones) 11.15 Holy Communion More (Rev Jo Evans ) 11.15 Holy Communion Churchstoke BANNS (2) Liam Trafford Corfield and Kayleigh Jane Huffer 6.30 “Easter Praise” & Holy Communion Wentnor BANNS (2) Steven Jones and Deborah Parks BANNS (2) Constantine Topouzis and Alice Bluhm

SUNDAY 7 APRIL EASTER 1 8.00 Holy Communion Lydham 9.15 Holy Communion Hyssington 9.45 Family Communion Ratlinghope 9.45 Morning Prayer Wentnor (Barry Preston) BANNS (2) Matthew Gurden & Hannah Harding 10.30 Morning Praise Churchstoke (David Jelves) 11.15 Family Communion Norbury 7.30 MARCHES COMMUNITY CHOIR “SACRED CONCERT” BISHOP’S CASTLE CHURCH

SUNDAY 14 APRIL EASTER 2 8.30 Holy Communion Ratlinghope BANNS (3) Matthew Gurden & Hannah Harding 11.00 DEANERY INVITED TO “FACES OF FAITH” SERVICE AT BISHOP’S CASTLE CHURCH 6.30 Evening Prayer Norbury

SUNDAY 21 APRIL EASTER 3 8.30 Holy Communion Wentnor BANNS (3) Steven Jones and Deborah Parks BANNS (3) Constantine Topouzis and Alice Bluhm 10.00 Holy Communion Snead 11.15 Holy Communion Churchstoke (Preb Michael Pollit) BANNS (3) Liam Trafford Corfield and Kayleigh Jane Huffer 11.15 Annual “St George’s Day Service” Lydham 6.30 Evening Prayer Ratlinghope

SUNDAY 28 APRIL EASTER 4 8.30 Holy Communion Norbury 9.45 Holy Communion Myndtown 9.45 Morning Praise Ratlinghope (Lay led) 10.00 Hyssington United Service 11.15 Holy Communion Churchstoke 11.15 Holy Communion More 5.00 CHORAL EVENSONG BISHOP’S CASTLE: HEREFORD CATHEDRAL CHOIR Preacher: The Dean of Hereford

SATURDAY 4 MAY WEDDING Matthew Gurden & Hannah Harding Sat 4 May 12 Noon Ratlinghope

SUNDAY 5 MAY EASTER 5 Rogation Sunday 8.00 Holy Communion Lydham 9.15 Holy Communion Hyssington 9.45 Morning Praise Ratlinghope – followed by Ratlinghope “Beating the Bounds” & Picnic 10.30 Family Worship Churchstoke 11.15 Family Communion Norbury 1.00 Christening Wentnor 6.30 Evening Prayer Wentnor

Weekday Morning Prayer at 8.30am Join us for a short service at our parish churches. 5 April Norbury; 12 April Lydham; 19 April More; 26 April Churchstoke; 3 May Wentnor.

LOCAL MINISTRY NEWS: The Local Ministry Development Group is currently focusing on Prayer, Pastoral Visiting and Home Communions. It meets monthly to share concerns and pray for those who are in any kind of need. All concerns and prayers are made in total confidence and no mention is made of any names if they want their concerns to remain totally private and confidential. Please be in touch with any member if you know of anyone who would like to be visited. We had a very good Away-Day in January to improve our skills in Listening. Members are: Anita Bright, Trish Macmullan, David Jelves, Margaret Wallsgrove, Shirley Jones, Bob Berry (Convenor) , Canon Julia Francis & Rev Norman Morris. Owing to his increasing range of responsibilities, David Hardham has now retired from the Group with our grateful thanks for all his contributions over ten Local Ministry years.

EVENING AT THE CATHEDRAL: 5th September Clun Forest Deanery is invited to attend a special, short, evening service, just for Clun Forest, at 7 pm, followed by a 2 course supper with wine. Spaces are limited to 50 people and it was agreed that each benefice group will nominate 12 people. The Deanery will hire a 50 seat coach. The coach will aim to arrive at 6.30pm for 7pm. Costs will be paid by the deanery. Places are limited as we say – first come, first served – if interested please phone the Rector 01588 650244.

CONFIRMATION: Looking ahead: a Confirmation Service will be taking place for our parishes on SUNDAY 16 JUNE at 10.30 am at Churchstoke. The Rt. Rev. Alistair Magowan, Bishop of Ludlow will officiate. Confirmation is open to all, young and old alike, above the age of 10 or 11 years, and enhances and completes our membership of the Church which began at our Christening. We usually form small groups or sometimes see candidates in their homes. Do think about this – Confirmation is for all ages – so please do talk to the Rector if you are thinking about being confirmed. 01588 650244.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Onny Valley Social Club: Tuesday 2 April; Norbury Village Hall: 2.30pm. Heather & Julia – Coffee Picking in Nicaragua – Talk & slides. New members welcome. We usually meet on the first Tuesday afternoon in the month at Norbury Village Hall. Future outings: Cadbury World on Wednesday 17 April; 15 May Bodnant Gardens (NT) Wednesday 19 June; Aberystwyth Wednesday 19 June.

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETINGS (APCMs) These are the AGMs of the churches and we would like all PCCs and all those associated with our churches in any way to come and take part in these important Annual Meetings! These are proposed dates and it would be helpful if PCC Secretaries could check these dates are broadly OK for most people please? Friday 5 April Hyssington APCM Efail Hen 7.30pm Monday 8 April Wentnor APCM Wentnor Rectory 7.30pm Wednesday 10 April More APCM Wentnor Rectory 7.30pm Thursday 11 April Norbury APCM Lea Farm 7.30pm Friday 12 April Lydham APCM Lydham Village Hall 7.30pm Friday 19 April Snead APCM TBA 2.30pm Monday 22 April Myndtown APCM Hill End cottage 7.30pm Tuesday 23 April Churchstoke APCM The Courthouse 7.30pm

Marches Spirituality Network: Thursday 18 April: 9.30 for 10.00 – 3.00pm, at LUDLOW CONFERENCE CENTRE (BISHOP MASCALL), Lower Galdeford, Ludlow, SY8 1RZ. 01584 873882. A reminder about the next gathering for the Marches Spirituality Network. With world famous author (‘God of Surprises’ and many other books), GERARD W. HUGHES. Theme for the day: ‘Reflection on Spirituality in order to see the way ahead.’ Cost: £15-00 (including light lunch, Coffee / Tea). Bookings to be made with Ludlow Conference Centre Cheques payable to: The Bishop Mascall Centre Foundation, re Marches Spirituality For further information: C.C. Price 01746712398. If not in please leave name and number on answer-phone, (please do not ring after 8 p,m), or [email protected]

ST GEORGE’S DAY SERVICE: Sunday 21 April 11.15am. This annual service is at Lydham Church. You are invited to dress up as St George or as a Dragon!

ROGATION SUNDAY: Sunday 5 May (Easter 5) 9.45 Morning Praise Ratlinghope – followed by Ratlinghope “Beating the Bounds” & Picnic. All welcome to join in, from all parishes!

NATIONAL GARDENS SCHEME MAREHAY FARM GARDEN RATLINGHOPE SUNDAY 9th JUNE 2013 11.00am – 6.00pm £3 Adults – Children free TEAS – PLANTS

SOUTH WEST SHROPSHIRE GARDEN CLUB Please note that South West Shropshire Garden Club has changed the venue for its meetings and for its annual flower show. As Lydbury North hall is no longer available meetings will in future be held in Clun Memorial Hall, commencing at 7.30pm. Visitors are very welcome at a charge of £3. On 24 April Stan Steadman will be talking about 'Britain in Bloom' and on 22 May Fiona Grant will talk on the 'History of the walled kitchen garden'. Details of all the club's activities can be found on the club's blog at swsgc.wordpress.com and non members are welcome to take part in outings and in the garden show, this year being held on 31 August. If you want a schedule for the show, or have any other queries, please email [email protected], or ring Heather Williams on 01588 650610

AROUND THE PARISHES: NEWS UPDATES:

The JUMBLE SALE at Norbury Village Hall, on 2 March, made £350. Congratulations and thanks to all involved!

Snead TAI CHI NEWS: TAI CHI beginners class; Thursday mornings from 10.30 am to 12 noon; At Hyssington Village Hall; £5 per session; Contact: Pam Blaxland 01588 638145 or [email protected]

LYDHAM NEWS 100 Club February Draw winners: 1st - £26.50 Mr Terry Reynolds, Lydham; 2nd - £15.90 Mrs Barbara Geddes, Lydham; 3rd - £10.60 Mr Arthur Wood, Lydham Mill. Anybody interested in joining the 100 Club please contact Neil Hird 01588-638379 or Jimmy Garnier 638486. Friday Market: As from Friday 5th April the Friday Market, originally held in Bishop's Castle Town Hall, will be held in Lydham Village Hall. Paul Amess, from his Henford nursery, will have a wide selection of fruit, vegetables and flowers for sale, Mr. Bun the Baker will have a selection of bread and cakes and Sue Averis will have a selection of ethnic gift ware Do support your local market.

IONA WEEK April 26th to Sat May 3rd 2014. In the past years we have had wonderful pilgrimages to Iona in 2007, 2009 and 2012 which were much enjoyed. Hilary Rosanikiewicz (nee Jackson) is planning to take a party to Iona again, staying at Bishop's House, Iona, in April 2014. Hilary and her husband Ross are already making up a party. There are still places for 3 more couples or friends for 3 twin rooms at Bishop’s House. If you would like to join the party or simply would like to find out more, please be in touch with the Rector or Hilary and Ross.,01432 761588, who now live near Hereford.

TABLE TENNIS! Open to all! Anyone wanting a good game! Often taking place Mondays at Norbury Village Hall 2- 3pm for details contact The Rector 01588 650244

BENEFICE BOOK GROUP: Contact: The Rector 650244 BIBLE STUDY GROUP: Resuming after Easter “Ephesians” New members always welcome! Contact: The Rector 01588 650244 CHURCHSTOKE “OVER-SIXTIES”: Meet alternative Wednesdays 3.00pm Churchstoke Community Hall contact: Margaret Chislett 01588 620310,

From Lesley Thomas, Parish Clerk: The Myndtown Combined Parish Council dates: 15th April (TBC) x4 Parish Meetings-7pm, 13th May-AGM, 8th July, 9th Sept & 11th Nov, all at Norbury village Hall at 7.30pm. The District and Local Parish Council Elections take place in May.

Age UK Lunches for those 60 & over at the Crown Inn, Wentnor, 12 Noon for 12.30pm. Normally SECOND WEDNESDAY AND THIRD TUESDAY in the month. NEXT WEDNESDAY LUNCH IS 10 APRIL to book please ring Rachel Bright 01588 650242. NEXT TUESDAY LUNCH is TUESDAY 16 APRIL to book please ring Margaret Cooke 01588 650280. Mrs. Janet Brandon on 01588 650232 – is your Age Concern Parish Link – who will be pleased to help you.

Onny Valley Social Club: This club usually meets on the first Tuesday afternoon in the month at Norbury Village Hall 2.30pm. Tuesday 2 April Heather & Julia – Coffee Picking in Nicaragua – Talk & slides - New members welcome. Future outings: Cadbury World Wednesday 17 April; Wdnesday 15 May Bodnant Gardens (NT) Wednesday 19 June; Aberystwyth Wednesday 19 June.

AROUND THE WIs : Norbury & District WI: THURSDAY 11 APRIL Norbury Village Hall Speaker: MR CROWE “Court Jeweller to the Czars, Carl Faberge” Hostesses: Jenny Burdett, Jayne Godsman & Pauline Phillips Flowers Liv Goode; Competition: Decorated egg. Lydham, More & Snead WI: THURSDAY 16 APRIL Lydham Village Hall. Speaker: MRS. AUDREY PHILLIPS “Making Patchwork Bags”; Competition: Craft item made by a member. Teas: Christine & Tricia.

TWENTY YEARS AGO! The Rural Dean David Hayes spoke of being taken for a tramp when he had sat down near the Cathedral; work was being undertaken in the Church Barn to bring it up to modern standards; the Corndon Singers were performing in Clun; Alan Denyer at Lydbury North was encouraging “volunteering” as Social Responsibility Officer; Set Aside schemes were being offered to farmers.FLOWERS/CLEANING: (From now on notification will be through the churches)

Find out what is going on across the Hereford diocese at the website at www.hereford.anglican.org - have a look at the Notice board. For details of service times at the Cathedral, please telephone 01432 374212 or visit the cathedral website www.herefordcathedral.org. Want a Magazine? Know someone who would like one? Please encourage sales & distribution! Please contact Margaret Cooke 01588 650280 (Shropshire & Snead parishes) Myndtown Combined Parish Council Contact: Parish Clerk Mrs. L Thomas 01588 650509. Wentnor Stores: The Post Office OUTREACH service is OPEN on TUESDAY 9.00AM – 11.00am - offering personal banking, Car Tax & Euros- please support our village shop WENTNOR STORES as much as possible! Bus enquiries: 0870 241 2 216 National Rail Enquires: 08457 484950 Hall Bookings: Norbury 650660 Anita (or if need be Rev Norman Morris 650244) – Lydham 638737 – Hyssington Village Hall: 01588 620197 - do use our halls! Norbury Village Hall: Tables, chairs, hostess trolley, crockery, & boiler available for hire 01588 650660 The Rector is always available to discuss Wedding and Christening dates at any time Office Hour: Saturday morning at The Rectory 9-10am. Tel: 01588 650244. House Communion is available to anyone who cannot easily get to Church. Photocopying at The Rectory: 5p per sheet – reductions for longer runs. Bishop’s Castle Dial-a-Ride and Community Car scheme: Available for individuals or groups regardless of age or disability. All journeys must be pre-booked. Volunteer drivers and escorts urgently required for this worthwhile community service. Contact: Adrian Varcoe or ring 01588 638350.

The Rector writes…. Easter occurs early this year, less than a week after the very earliest possible date. As I was once told, Christmas is for the world while Holy Week and Easter is for the church, in the sense that the faithful are invited to journey to the heart of the Christian Faith - to the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. As we move through Lent, we should have our eyes fixed on these momentous days to come. We should see ourselves when we reach Palm Sunday entering the drama of Jesus’ final days. It’s extraordinary how detailed that final week is covered in the Gospels, culminating in the triumph of Easter Day. The opportunity is there for us all to take part - to be one of the crowd - as those dramatic events unfold day after day through our Holy Week and Easter services - so do come and share a unique experience where our lives, today, mystically merge with those events of long ago to renew our commitment to our Saviour, Jesus Christ!

SUNDAY SERVICES SUNDAY 3 MARCH LENT 3 No early service at Lydham 9.15 Holy Communion Hyssington (Rev Jo Evans) 9.45 Extended Holy Communion Ratlinghope (Canon Julia Francis) 11.15 Extended Holy Communion Norbury (Canon Julia Francis) 6.30 “Celebration of St David” Churchstoke 6.30 Evening Prayer Wentnor (Barry Preston)

MOTHERING SUNDAY 10 MARCH LENT 4 8.30 Holy Communion Wentnor 9.45 “Mothering Sunday “Service Ratlinghope Rev. Norman & Canon Julia Francis 10.00 “Mothering Sunday “Service Hyssington (Jean Blaine) 10.30 “Mothering Sunday “Service Churchstoke (Jon Price/David Hardham) 11.15 “Mothering Sunday “Service More Rev. Norman & Canon Julia Francis 6.30 Evening Prayer Norbury

PASSION SUNDAY 17 MARCH LENT 5 8.30 Holy Communion Ratlinghope 11.15 Holy Communion Churchstoke 11.15 Morning Prayer Lydham Canon (Canon Julia Francis) 6.30 Evening Prayer Wentnor

PALM SUNDAY 24 MARCH 8.30 Holy Communion with Palms Norbury 9.45 Holy Communion with Palms Ratlinghope (Canon Julia Francis) 9.45 Holy Communion with Palms More 11.00am meet in the Car Park for the Hyssington Pilgrimage 11.15 Holy Communion with Palms Churchstoke BANNS (1) Liam Trafford Corfield and Kayleigh Jane Huffer 2.30 Hyssington United Service at Methodist Church with refreshments 6.30 Evening Prayer with Palms Wentnor BANNS (1) Steven Jones and Deborah Parks BANNS (1) Constantine Topousis and Alice Bluhm

EVERYONE IS INVITED TO JOIN IN HOLY WEEK SERVICES ACROSS THE PARISHES! Monday 25 March 12 Noon Stations of the Cross Churchstoke Tuesday 26 March 12 Noon Stations of the Cross Churchstoke Wednesday 27 March 12 Noon Stations of the Cross Churchstoke MAUNDY THURSDAY 28 MARCH 10.30 Chrism Eucharist Hereford Cathedral 6.30 Benefice Maundy Thursday Eucharist Norbury GOOD FRIDAY 29 MARCH 10.30 Liturgy for Good Friday Churchstoke (Jon Price) 6.30pm Good Friday “At the Foot of the Cross” Lydham HOLY SATURDAY 30 MARCH 7.30pm Easter Vigil Hyssington (Preb M Pollit)

SUNDAY 7 APRIL EASTER 1 8.00 Holy Communion Lydham 9.15 Holy Communion Hyssington (Canon Julia Francis) 9.45 Family Communion Ratlinghope 9.45 Morning Prayer Wentnor (Barry Preston) BANNS (2) Matthew Gurden & Hannah Harding 10.30 Morning Praise Churchstoke David Jelves 11.15 Family Communion Norbury 7.30 MARCHES COMMUNITY CHOIR SACRED CONCERT BISHOP’S CASTLE CHURCH

Weekday Morning Prayer at 8.30am Join us for a short service at our parish churches. 1 March Myndtown; 8 March Snead; Wednesday 13 March Ratlinghope; 22 March Hyssington; 29 March GOOD FRIDAY; 5 April Norbury.

LOCAL MINISTRY NEWS: The Local Ministry Development Group is currently focusing on Prayer, Pastoral Visiting and Home Communions. It meets monthly to share concerns and pray for those who are in any kind of need. All concerns and prayers are made in total confidence and no mention is made of any names if they want their concerns to remain totally private and confidential. Please be in touch with any member if you know of anyone who would like to be visited. We had a very good Away-Day in January to improve our skills in Listening. Members are: Anita Bright, David Hardham, Trish Macmullan; David Jelves; Margaret Wallsgrove, Shirley Jones, Bob Berry (Convenor) , Canon Julia Francis & Rev Norman Morris.

CHURCH ELECTORAL ROLL is being renewed this year! Being on your Church’s Electoral Roll gives you a link with your parish church which entitles you to vote at its annual meeting, and, if you wish, to be elected to the Parochial Church Council. Anyone resident in a parish, on the Roll or not, may attend the first part of the Annual Meeting and vote in the election of Churchwardens. To qualify to be on the Roll, you must be baptised, be a member of the Church of England (or of a church in communion with it), be over 16 (or will become 16 in the next twelve months, in which case you will be entered on the Roll on your sixteenth birthday), and, of course, you must have filled in and returned an application form! You must also either live in the parish, or if you live elsewhere you must have attended worship regularly at the church for at least six months. The Electoral Roll for each of our churches has to be revised by fifteen days before its Annual Meeting. So if you want to continue to be on your church’s Roll, or you want to join the Roll, you must fill in a form in good time. Forms are available from the Rector, PCC Secretaries or at the churches. They should be returned as soon as possible to the church, or to your church’s Electoral Roll Officer or to The Rectory in Wentnor (from any parish)

CONFIRMATION: Looking ahead: a Confirmation Service will be taking place for our parishes on SUNDAY 16 JUNE at 10.30 am at Churchstoke. The Rt. Rev. Alistair Magowan Bishop of Ludlow will officiate. Confirmation is open to all, young and old alike, above the age of 10 or 11 years, and enhances and completes our membership of the Church which began at our Christening. We usually form small groups or sometimes see candidates in their homes. Do think about this – Confirmation is for all ages – so please do talk to the Rector if you are thinking about being confirmed. 01588 650244.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

LENT GROUPS: Lent began on Ash Wednesday 13 February. Lent Groups are taking place at the Vicarage, Churchstoke and at Wentnor Rectory (1) 'CHRISTIANITY EXPLORED' Lent Course at the Vicarage, Churchstoke: Jon is leading this course for 5 weeks on Tuesdays: 19 Feb until 19 March (2.00pm -3.30pm). It’s from All Souls C of E church, Langham Place, London, and is widely recommended as an excellent way to understand Christianity and help give confidence to express what our faith is all about. (2) At Wentnor Rectory we are having five sessions using the new York course “Glimpses of God – Hope for today’s World” with tape contributions from Bishop Stephen Cottrell, Revd Professor David Wilkinson, Rt Hon Shirley Williams, with closing reflections from Revd Lucy Winkett and an introduction from Dr David Hope. Meetings are proposed for Wednesday 27 February at 2.30pm; Wednesday 6 March at 2.30pm; Wednesday 13 March at 2.30pm, Wednesday 20 March at 2.30pm & Wednesday 27 March at 2.30pm. All are welcome. Booklets £4. These sessions are very helpful, excellent, and take our faith further so do join in even if you can’t make all the sessions.

JUMBLE SALE: Norbury Village Hall Saturday 2 March 2.00pm Teas with homemade sandwiches/cakes.

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETINGS (APCMs) These are the AGMs of the churches and we would like all PCCs and all those associated with our churches in any way to come and take part in these important Annual Meetings! These are proposed dates and it would be helpful if PCC Secretaries could check these dates are broadly OK for most people please? Monday 11 March Ratlinghope APCM Coppice Farm 7.30pm Friday 5 April Hyssington APCM Efail Hen 7.30pm Monday 8 April Wentnor APCM Wentnor Rectory 7.30pm Wednesday 10 April More APCM Wentnor Rectory 7.30pm Thursday 11 April Norbury APCM Lea Farm 7.30pm Friday 12 April Lydham APCM Lydham Village Hall 7.30pm Friday 19 April Snead APCM TBA 2.30pm Tuesday 23 April Churchstoke APCM The Courthouse 7.30pm Friday 26 April Myndtown APCM venue TBA 7.30pm

Onny Valley Social Club: Tuesday 5 March: Dr Margaret Wilson “Discovering Your Family History”. This club usually meets on the first Tuesday afternoon in the month at Norbury Village Hall 2.30pm. New members welcome. Future outings: Cadbury World Wednesday 17 April; Bodnant Gardens (NT) Wednesday 19 June; Aberystwyth Wednesday 19June. Norbury Village Hall AGM Wednesday 27 March at 7.30pm

ST GEORGE’S DAY SERVICE: Sunday 21 April 11.15am. This annual service is at Lydham Church. You are invited to dress up as St George or as a Dragon!

AROUND THE PARISHES: NEWS UPDATES:

The Norbury Village Hall Lottery Bid Progress We have completed the second stage of the Lottery Bid and submitted it thanks to all the suggestions and helpful information so many of you provided during the very short time we had to complete the work. We now have to wait to hear what the Lottery thinks ... as soon as we get a result we’ll let you know what help we need to complete the next stage. We are using your questionnaire responses to build up the substance of the bid and include all your ideas about how the hall should run. The lucky winner of the bottle of champagne was Judith Owen of Wentnor, and she received her bottle of champagne from Alan Brandon at her home on 25th January. Thanks again for all the help you have given us so far.

Snead TAI CHI NEWS: TAI CHI beginners class; Thursday mornings from 10.30 am to 12 noon; At Hyssington Village Hall; £5 per session; Contact: Pam Blaxland 01588 638145 or [email protected]

LYDHAM NEWS Lydham Church 100 Club January Winners: First Prize -Corwen Yapp, Lydham - £26.50. 2nd Prize - Robert Madeley, Lydham - £15.90; 3rd Prize - Diana Pritchard , More - £10.60 Anybody interested in joining the 100 Club please contact Neil Hird 01588-638379 or Jimmy Garnier 01588- 638486 Friday Market: As from Friday, 5th April the Friday Market, originally held in Bishop's Castle Town hall, will be held in Lydham Village Hall. Paul Amess, from his Henford nursery, will have a wide selection of fruit, vegetables and flowers for sale, Mr. Bun the Baker will have a selection of bread and cakes and Sue Averis will have a selection of ethnic gift ware Do support your local market.

TABLE TENNIS! Open to all! Anyone wanting a good game! Often taking place Mondays at Norbury Village Hall 2- 3pm for details contact The Rector 01588 650244

From Lesley Thomas, Parish Clerk: The Myndtown Combined Parish Council dates: 11th March, 15th April (TBC) x4 Parish Meetings-7pm, 13th May-AGM, 8th July, 9th Sept & 11th Nov, all at Norbury village Hall at 7.30pm. The District and Local Parish Council Elections take place in May.

Age UK Lunches for those 60 & over at the Crown Inn, Wentnor, 12 Noon for 12.30pm. Normally SECOND WEDNESDAY and THIRD TUESDAY in the month. NEXT WEDNESDAY LUNCH is 13 MARCH; to book this meal, please ring Rachel Bright 01588 650242. NEXT TUESDAY LUNCH is 19 MARCH: Please ring Margaret Cooke 01588 650280 to make a booking. Mrs. Janet Brandon on 01588 650232 – is your Age Concern Parish Link – who will be pleased to help you.

AROUND THE WIs : Norbury & District WI: THURSDAY 14 MARCH Norbury Village Hall Speaker: GEORGE HILL “Bee Keeping” Hostesses: Jules Spille & Shelagh Cusack ; Flowers Doris Roberts; Competition: Recipe with honey as an ingredient, with a bite sized sample. Lydham, More & Snead WI: THURSDAY 21 MARCH Lydham Village Hall Speaker: SHIRLEY MUNDY A Pedicure” Competition Favourite Perfume Bottle Teas: Janet & Jane.

TWENTY YEARS AGO! The Rural Dean David Hayes thanked the Paul Welch for his three and half years as Incumbent of the Clungunford group of parishes; the Bishop of Hereford, John Oliver spoke of attempts to unite the church behind women’s ordination to the Priesthood; it was made clear that glebe land would be available for housing associations if local communications were supportive; Lord Hunt spoke at Everest Hall of the Conquest of Everest; Hyssington had 40 new hassocks planned for the church; Hopesay School which closed in 1991 after 118 years was recalled.

FROM THE REGISTERS: CHRISTENING: Jorgie Summer Wood Sunday 27 January Wentnor FUNERAL: Stan Price (82) 28 January Churchstoke

FLOWERS/CLEANING: (From now on notification will be through the churches)

The Rector writes….Lent approaches, and, as ever, provides us with a marvelous opportunity to reflect upon what we believe and why it matters to us. How much does our faith affect our actions and determine our priorities? Are we living out the Gospel in the world? I have to say how impressed I am with the growth of Food Banks – an initiative not confined to the churches but certainly the churches to their credit are centrally involved! It is pretty extraordinary that we should need food backs as we have the sixth richest economy in the world but these are exceptionally times and there is much hardship around. It’s impressive that groups of Christians are motivated to live put the Gospel by meeting the practical needs of families and individuals passing through difficult times. Amongst our parishes, Ratlinghope has given a good lead and Craven Arms has begun a Food Bank. Over at Hereford the Cathedral , as I discovered when becoming a Prebendary, and city Centre Churches and Chapels have an impressive network providing daily meals to the homeless – living out the Gospel so often in ways that are never publicized contributes to the well-being of our country at every level.

Happy & Blessed New Year to everyone! Many thanks for all the Christmas cards and gifts that I was fortunate to receive over the festive period! Thanks too to all who so beautifully decorated our churches over the Christmas period! Rev

SUNDAY SERVICES SUNDAY 3 FEBRUARY SEXAGESIMA 8.00 Holy Communion Lydham 9.15 Holy Communion Hyssington 9.45 Extended Holy Communion Ratlinghope 10.30 Family Worship Churchstoke Community Hall (Jon Price/David Jelves) 11.15 Holy Communion Norbury 6.30 “Songs of Praise” Wentnor

SUNDAY 10 FEBRUARY QUINQUAGESIMA 8.30 Holy Communion Ratlinghope 9.15 Morning Praise Hyssington 9.45 Holy Communion Wentnor 11.15 Extended Holy Communion More Canon Julia Francis) 11.15 Holy Communion Churchstoke (David Jelves Ministry of the Word) 6.30 “Songs of Praise” Norbury

ASH WEDNESDAY 13 FEBRUARY 10.30 Holy Communion Churchstoke (Preb Michael Pollit) 6.30 Holy Communion Lydham

FRIDAY 15 FEBRUARY MYNDTOWN ANNUAL ST VALENTINE SERVICE 6.30pm

SUNDAY 17 FEBRUARY LENT 1 8.30 Holy Communion Wentnor 9.45 Holy Communion More 11.15 Morning Praise Churchstoke Community Hall (David Hardham) 11.15 Morning Praise Lydham 6.30 “Songs of Praise” Ratlinghope

SUNDAY 24 FEBRUARY LENT 2 8.30 Holy Communion Norbury 9.45 Morning Praise Ratlinghope Lay led 10.00 Hyssington United Service 11.15 Holy Communion Churchstoke Community Hall

SUNDAY 3 MARCH LENT 3 No early service at Lydham 9.15 Holy Communion Hyssington (Rev Jo Evans) 9.45 Extended Holy Communion Ratlinghope (Canon Julia Francis) 11.15 Extended Holy Communion Ratlinghope (Canon Julia Francis) 6.30 “Celebration of St David” Churchstoke 6.30 Evening Prayer Wentnor (Barry Preston) Weekday Morning Prayer at 8.30am Join us for a short service at our parish churches. 1 Feb.Lydham; 8 February More; 15 February Churchstoke; 22 February Wentnor; 1 March Myndtown.

AROUND THE PARISHES: NEWS UPDATES The launch of Mary Hardham’s CD "G IS FOR GOD" - nine Worship songs took place on Sunday 25 November at Ratlinghope and have sold very well! There are a few still available for sale at £8 each - further details from Mary Hardham 01588 650362 or the Rector. LOCAL MINISTRY NEWS: The Local Ministry Development Group with its focus on Prayer, Pastoral Visiting and Home Communions has been meeting monthly across the parishes. We share news of those we have visited as we seek to pray for all those who are in any kind of need. Please be in touch with any member if you know of anyone who would like to be visited. Current Members are: Anita Bright, David Hardham, Trish Macmullan; David Jelves; Margaret Wallsgrove, Shirley Jones, Bob Berry (Convenor) , Canon Julia Francis & Rev Norman Morris. Next meeting Tuesday 12 Feb 2013 at Lower Snead 1000hrs. Bob - chair, Margaret - prayer, Trish - notes. The main purpose of this meeting will be to focus on the Pentrenant Day on Saturday 11 May 2013 Canon Julia Francis attends the LMDG Forum on 5 March.

Many thanks to the Williams family for putting on a wonderful Summer Concert for Ratlinghope Church which raised £420! 'Lydham News Winners of the December '100 Cub' draw Ist prize Barbara Hird, Seven Wells - £26.50 2nd prize Anthea Jones, The Croft, Lydham - £15.90 3rd prize Sandra Jones, The Farm, Snead - £10.60 Anybody interested in joining the Lydham 100 Club please contact Jimmy Garnier on 01588-638486 or Neil Hird on 01588-638379 for details. Support for the 100 Club is essential if we are to keep our eight hundred year old church open. Christmas Day Service There were an excellent number of worshippers for the Christmas Day service to which again we welcomed Mrs. Carlos. We thank Tony, who we trust will soon be better, and Joy Martin for their Christmas tree and Paula Brayford and her children for decorating it and all who decorated the church so well. The Rev Norman Morris's sermon on 'the Hopeless Camel' who took the three wise men first to King Herod's Palace and then the stable at the Bethlehem inn, having recently seen his grandchildren participate in a Nativity play of that title, gave the congregation a very different and interesting approach on the Birth of Our Lord. The East Window project The final retention payment of £1,504 on the above successful £79,000 project has been made to the builder. Lydham PCC is very grateful to all who helped to raise the required funds through coffee mornings, the Christmas Fair, raffles, book sales, etc., which supported the grants we fortunately secured, to ensure the repair by Recclesia Ltd of Chester of the church's beautiful east window. New Year's Day walk Well led by David Preshous eighteen walkers and four dogs thoroughly enjoyed the walk up Linley Beeches. The weather was kind, a strong wind blew away the cobwebs and magnificent all round views were enjoyed from the top as was lunch afterwards in Norbury Village Hall.

Reminder! Looking after nine Churchyards is a huge undertaking for all our churches, so now the “growing season” is over, may I again , as did in previous issues thanks all those who maintain our churchyards – and also thanks those involved with church cleaning and flower arranging. However, at some churchyards, the task is immense, especially at Wentnor where there is a new second churchyard. There we employ a professional gardener (volunteers cut the grass in the old churchyard) and some Wentnor parishioners with family links provide annual donations to pay for this care - so further contributions are always welcome to maintain the new Wentnor churchyard We are fortunate some much good work goes on looking after our churches and churchyards.

The Norbury Village Hall Stage Two Lottery Bid

A VERY BIG THANK YOU to all those people who filled in the recent questionnaire to help us proceed to the next stage of the Lottery.

 We now have over 18 local contractors on our database who want to be included in tenders for the work. That’s a great start and will help to ensure that local people get to complete the work when we succeed with the bid.  We now have your opinions on the current hall and the wonderful ideas you have got to run events and activities from the new hall. These are so varied I can’t include them all here; but they include an off road cycling route through the Shropshire Hills starting from the hall, sporting events on TV at the hall; we hope to see a carers group start and Norbury school aims to use the new hall for all sorts of activities they are unable to think about now because of their limited space.

One thing to remember: we depend on you for advice, help and ideas so keep them coming. The application goes in at the end of January and we will keep you posted on progress. Thanks again for your help. The Village Hall team Our contact details: [email protected]

UPCOMING EVENTS LENT GROUPS: Lent begins on Ash Wednesday 13 February. There will be Lent Groups as usual at the Vicarage, Churchstoke and at Wentnor Rectory (1) 'CHRISTIANITY EXPLORED' Lent Course at the Vicarage, Churchstoke: Jon is leading this course for 5 weeks on Tuesdays: 19 Feb until 19 March (2.00pm -3.30pm). It’s from All Souls C of E church, Langham Place, London, and is widely recommended as an excellent way to understand Christianity and help give confidence to express what our faith is all about. (2) At Wentnor Rectory we shall have five sessions using the new York course “Glimpses of God – Hope for today’s World” with tape contributions from Bishop Stephen Cottrell, Revd Professor David Wilkinson, Rt Hon Shirley Williams, with closing reflections from Revd Lucy Winkett and an introduction from Dr David Hope. Meetings are proposed for Wednesday 27 February at 2.30pm; Wednesday 6 March at 2.30pm; Wednesday 13 March at 2.30pm, Wednesday 20 March at 2.30pm & Wednesday 27 March at 2.30pm. All are welcome. Please give your names to the Rector 01588 650244 Booklets £4 These sessions will be excellent and will take our faith further so do think of joining in even if you can’t make all five sessions.

A service of Wholeness and Healing to be held in St. Nicholas Church on Wed. 27 Feb. at 7:30 pm. The Rev. Alan Toop has kindly agreed to be our guest speaker. Come and enjoy a reflective and personal time with God.

Norbury Village Hall Jumble Sale Saturday 2 March 2.00pm Teas with homemade sandwiches/cakes All welcome ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETINGS (APCMs) These are the AGMs of the churches and we would like all PCCs and all those associated with our churches in any way to come and take part in these important Annual Meetings! These are proposed dates and it would be helpful if PCC Secretaries could check these dates are broadly OK for most people please? Monday 11 March Ratlinghope APCM Coppice Farm 7.30pm Friday 5 April Hyssington APCM Efail Hen 7.30pm Monday 8 April Wentnor APCM Wentnor Rectory 7.30pm Wednesday 10 April More APCM Wentnor Rectory 7.30pm Thursday 11 April Norbury APCM Lea Farm 7.30pm Friday 12 April Lydham APCM Lydham Village Hall 7.30pm Friday 19 April Snead APCM TBA 2.30pm or 7.30pm? Tuesday 23 April Churchstoke APCM The Courthouse 7.30pm Friday 26 April Myndtown APCM venue TBA 7.30pm

Norbury Village Hall AGM Wednesday 27 March at 7.30pm

Note for your diary: BIG CELEBRATION DAY for all nine parishes. Saturday 11 May. 10.30 - 3.30. at Pentrenant Hall, Nr Churchstoke, SY15 6TG. Activities for children. Acres of space. Time to meet and mingle and have fun. Check out their website [ pentrenanthall.co.uk ]

BENEFICE BOOK GROUP: Friday 15 February 33.30pm Linley “Guidance for the Aspiring Englishman" by Natasha Solomons.Contact: The Rector 650244 BIBLE STUDY GROUP: Friday 1 February “Ephesians” New members always welcome! Contact: The Rector 01588 650 IONA WEEK April 26th to Sat May 3rd 2014. In the past years we have had wonderful pilgrimages to Iona in 2007, 2009 and 2012 which were much enjoyed. Hilary Rosanikiewicz (nee Jackson) is planning to take a party to Iona again, staying at Bishop's House, Iona, in April 2014. Hilary and her husband Ross are already making up a party. There are still places for 3 more couples or friends for 3 twin rooms at Bishop’s House. If you would like to join the party or simply would like to find out more, please be in touch with the Rector or Hilary and Ross 01432 761588 who now live near Hereford.

Snead TAI CHI NEWS: TAI CHI beginners ‘class; Thursday mornings from 10.30 am to 12 noon; At Hyssington Village Hall; £5 per session; Contact: Pam Blaxland 01588 638145 or [email protected]

Age UK Lunches for those 60 & over at the Crown Inn, Wentnor, 12 Noon for 12.30pm Normally SECOND WEDNESDAY in the month – NEXT LUNCH WEDNESDAY 13 FEBRUARY to book your meal please ring Rachel Bright 01588 650242 and THIRD TUESDAY in the month, NEXT LUNCHES TUESDAY 19 FEBRUARY Please ring Margaret Cooke 01588 650280 to make a booking Age UK: Mrs. Janet Brandon on 01588 650232 – is your Age Concern Parish Link – who will be pleased to help you.

AROUND THE WIs Norbury & District WI: THURSDAY 14 FEBRUARY Norbury Village Hall Speaker: KAREN VAN HOFF “Couture Accessories” Hostesses: Vivien Ridgway, Doris Roberts & Rita Preston; Flowers Jenny Burdett; Competition: Your favourite piece of Jewelry. Lydham, More & Snead WI: THURSDAY 21 FEBRUARY Lydham Village Hall Speaker: SARAH SCREEN “A Supper Dish” Competition Prettiest Floral Plate Teas: Barbara & Mary Onny Valley Social Club: Usually meeting at Norbury Village Hall 2.30pm New members welcome. Monthly meetings on first Tuesday afternoon in the month in Norbury Village Hall – Tuesday 5 February David & Janet Preshous “Travel down the Ages” ; Outings: Cadbury World Wednesday 17 April; Bodnant Gardens (NT) Wednesday 19 June; Aberystwyth Wednesday 19June. Churchstoke “Over-Sixties”: Meet alternative Wednesdays 3.00pm Churchstoke Community Hall contact: Margaret Chislett 01588 620310, Age UK: contact Mrs. Janet Brandon on 01588 650232 – Age Concern Parish Link – who is pleased to help.

TWENTY YEARS AGO! The Rural Dean sought to encourage better weekly Christian Giving – average in the Deanery was £1 per head, compared with the average cost of a pint £1.50p – Diocesan Children’s Advisor Peter Privett was planning to lead two sessions at Bishop’s Castle – the Bishop of Hereford encouraged attendance at the forthcoming Swanwick Conference on the theme “Good News in Hard Times – the Clungunford parishes were preparing for an Interregnum with the Rev Paul Welsh leaving – Ven John Saxbee arrived as the new Archdeacon of Ludlow – POMPEI Deanery responses to “Patterns of Ministry and Pastoral Implications “ were being assessed by the diocese in order to plan for the future FROM THE REGISTERS: CHRISTENING: Riley James Crocker Sunday 23 November Wentnor Dougie Roy Barker-Jones Sunday 9 December More FUNERALS: David Browning (88) 5 December Shrewsbury Crematorium George Alfred Rowson (82) 5 January Wentnor

FLOWERS/CLEANING: (From now on notification will be through the churches) Table Tennis! Open to all! Anyone wanting a good game! Often taking place Mondays at Norbury Village Hall 2- 3pm for details contact The Rector 01588 650244 Find out what is going on across the Hereford diocese at the website at www.hereford.anglican.org - have a look at the Notice board. For details of service times at the Cathedral, please telephone 01432 374212 or visit the cathedral website www.herefordcathedral.org. Want a Magazine? Know someone who would like one? Please encourage sales & distribution! Please contact Margaret Cooke 01588 650280 (Shropshire & Snead parishes) Myndtown Combined Parish Council Contact: Parish Clerk Mrs. L Thomas 01588 650509. Wentnor Stores: The Post Office OUTREACH service is OPEN on TUESDAY 9.00AM – 11.00am - offering personal banking, Car Tax & Euros- please support our village shop WENTNOR STORES as much as possible! Bus enquiries: 0870 241 2 216 National Rail Enquires: 08457 484950 Hall Bookings: Norbury 650660 Anita (or if need be Rev Norman Morris 650244) – Lydham 638737 – Hyssington Village Hall: 01588 620197 - do use our halls! Norbury Village Hall: Tables, chairs, hostess trolley, crockery, & boiler available for hire 01588 650660 The Rector is always available to discuss Wedding and Christening dates at any time Office Hour: Saturday morning at The Rectory 9-10am. Tel: 01588 650244. House Communion is available to anyone who cannot easily get to Church. Photocopying at The Rectory: 5p per sheet – reductions for longer runs. Bishop’s Castle Dial-a-Ride and Community Car scheme: Available for individuals or groups regardless of age or disability. All journeys must be pre-booked. Volunteer drivers and escorts urgently required for this worthwhile community service. Contact: Adrian Varcoe or ring 01588 638350.

Charlie Denwood has given us this tribute to his late father - Les Denwood - As you can imagine, much has been written and said about Les, it’s hard to know where to begin. To his family, he was everything that they could wish for in a husband and father. The boys were brought up with very firm “house rules” but these were coupled with great fun, much laughter and love. Les was a proud Cumbrian. He was educated at Cockermouth Grammar school, did his army National Service in the Education Core, and then went to Durham University to read Mathematics before travelling to Leeds to study Physical Education at Carnegie College. In all of these places he enjoyed a considerable rugby career. He moved to Hertfordshire to take up a position at Letchworth Grammar School as Head of Physical Education. He became a much respected scrum half at Letchworth Rugby Club, soon gaining his county cap for Hertfordshire. He met and married Marion at a time when her singing career was just beginning, and whilst she was still studying at the Royal Academy of Music he decided to gain experience in London schools, and moved to work for the London Borough of Barking & Dagenham. This was a significant change but he quickly found there much he could offer the children. Apart from the sports programme, he took groups ski-ing every year, he set up the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme – taking boys up into the Lake District on survival courses, to camp, climb and walk - and many gained their bronze, silver and gold awards. His organizational ability was recognized with more senior posts. This suited both Marion and Les, as Marion’s career was also taking off, with singing engagements at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden. Both needed to be near London. His final school as Headmaster was to be a great challenge. A failing school, where youngsters did not aspire to further education, he transformed the school, motivating staff, parents and pupils alike. His pride was seeing youngsters go through the school to the Sixth Form and then gaining University places especially the one or two that gained places at Oxford or Cambridge University. For his own children, he was a rock. They were given freedom to grow, and if mistakes were made along the way he was, together with Marion, always there for guidance. Their childhood was filled with so much love and laughter! To conclude, we would just like to thank all of Les and Marion’s local friends and neighbours and particularly Dr. Adrian Fairbanks for taking such great care of them during these past few years. Finally, may we include a few comments from the many letters which we have received which really sum up the essence of Les Denwood. “Les was a unique man. We had the privilege of knowing him for just a short while, but his influence on me was very great. There will be many who will feel the same way. There was always something very special about him”. “The news is sad beyond words but there is a thriving comprehensive school in Dagenham that owes its very existence today to what Les achieved in those years as Headmaster”. “Les, to me, will always be a larger than life character, a man with such a great joy of life, wicked sense of humour and an integrity that I can only aspire to. Les must have touched so many people’s lives in a positive way and I can count myself as one who was lucky to have known him”. “As a Headmaster, Les was unique and thousands of children have enjoyed greater life chances because they were lucky enough to have been pupils at his schools”.

Wentnor and district was greatly saddened to learn of the passing of George Rowson before Christmas. George was a wonderful, much loved by everyone. We are grateful to the Rowson family for this fine tribute to George “George was born at the Upper Mill, Wentnor on the 25th June 1930, the only son of Ted and May Rowson. He attended Norbury School with Mrs. Tudge as head mistress, she regularly used the cane, but despite this George remained a favourite pupil, and was praised rather than reprimanded. He won several hand writing competitions, and took great pride in presenting a neat hand though out his life.

During his teenage years, he attended all the local dances many held in the back room of the Crown Inn, he also loved to go on holiday to Blackpool and sing and dance along to Reginald Dixon, playing the Tower Ballroom Organ. George sang his way through life brightening many a dull day.

At the Upper Mill there was always work to do, milking the cows twice a day, putting the milk in the churns and then out on the milk stand just in time for an early collection by Godfrey, who drove the milk lorry for many years, milking was done by hand and was really hard work, and it wasn’t until much later a milking parlour with a milking machine was built, to help with this daily job.

Two shire horses were used at harvest time, all the family would help turn the hay by hand, spurred on by picnics and plenty of home brewed beer, horses were used until George was old enough to drive his first tractor, but he always considered the horse the best alternative. With the addition of the new modern machinery, on the farm, meant George was able to find a part time job driving for Harpers the seed merchants, and later driving for a local haulier Reg Williams, this was the start of a very long driving career, which lead to him purchasing his own lorry “it’s a Bedford SIR” As time moves so quickly on, churns were replaced by bulk tanks, which meant that George became a full time livestock haulier, his attitude was always helpful and obliging and he became one of the most popular and best loved characters in the business, always keeping a close eye on current prices which was always an interest to him, which he shared with his constant companion his dog, his very last request was to feed and look after Floss.

George bought his beloved horse Dolly, and a carriage, as a hobby which gave immense pleasure for many years transporting brides and bridesmaids to various venues, George was involved with many local carnivals carrying participants or celebrities including Alan Turner and Nora Batty, there would always be long queues of children waiting to have a ride to Wentnor annual fete and other village events.

Music and partying were always a great part of George`s life and he always celebrated his birthdays with music and street parties, dancing to Country Style Shane Prince (Elvis) and Jane Pugh. Jane only missed one of his birthdays in the last twelve years, when the roads were flooded, George raised several thousands of pounds from holding street parties giving to charities such as Shropshire Blood Trust fund, Severn Hospice and Air Ambulance, his presence would lighten the mood of the people he was with, especially on leaving a local Inn, with various comments such as “ brewery wants the barrels and don’t sleep in yer bracers.

George was born and lived in Wentnor parish all his life, the last 50 years in the village, he attended Wentnor Sunday school which was held in the old school room at Wentnor, he was a confirmed member of the church of England, and in later years he would like to attend Wentnor Church for harvest festivals and many other occasions.

George never missed a Sunday service at Kinnerton Chapel he supported all the other events held there such as Harvest sales. It gave him much pleasure to see the first wedding ever to take place in the chapel last year. Kinnerton Chapel was a great part of his family life. It’s incredible that no matter where you go someone has a tale to tell about George. He was a wonderful character and will be greatly missed all who knew him, his singing and other attributes will leave a void hard to fill.

Hi Norman

Hope you are well. At last we know what royalties we have to pay out of the takings for the concert for Ratlinghope Church in July and we know that we can send you a cheque for £420. Is Margaret Cook the person to send it to?

Best wishes

Frances

The Rector writes….Christmas greetings to everyone as we move into the season of Advent which prepares us for the great festival of the Incarnation – God becomes one of us in the person of Jesus of Nazareth. It’s an astonishing claim which takes us back to the disciples of Jesus who were transformed by the experience of encountering the Risen Christ in the days after Easter! It is because of Good Friday and Easter Day – the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ – that we celebrate Christmas at all because his full significance was only apparent with his Resurrection. So let us joyfully celebrate our Saviour’s birth this Christmas, knowing that he died and rose again so that we might be delivered from our sins and come into eternal life with him.

SUNDAY SERVICES SUNDAY 2 DECEMBER ADVENT ONE 8.00 Holy Communion Lydham 9.45 Extended Holy Communion & All Age Service Ratlinghope (Canon Julia Francis) 10.30 Family Worship “St Nicholas” Churchstoke (David Jelves/ Capt.Jon Price) 11.15 Holy Communion Norbury (Rev Jo Evans) Hyssington Advent Party 3-5pm Village Hall 6.30 “ From Darkness to Light” Advent Evening Service Wentnor

SUNDAY 9 DECEMBER ADVENT TWO 8.30 Holy Communion Ratlinghope 9.15 Hyssington Morning Praise 9.45 Holy Communion Wentnor 11.15 Holy Communion More 11.15 Holy Communion Churchstoke (Preb.Michael Pollit) 2.00 Christening (Dougie Barker-Jones) More 6.30 “From Darkness to Light” Advent Evening Service Norbury

Christmas Tree Festival will run from Friday 14 to Saturday 16 December, with Christmas stalls & seasonal refreshments

SUNDAY 16 DECEMBER ADVENT 3 11.15 “ADVENT PRAISE” Lydham 4.00pm“CHRISTMAS TREE SERVICE” CHURCHSTOKE with Fourtissimo, the brass band, & seasonal refreshments

FRIDAY 14 DECEMBER CAROL SERVICE MORE 7.00pm

SUNDAY 16 DECEMBER ADVENT 3 8.30 Holy Communion Wentnor 11.15 “ADVENT PRAISE” Lydham 4.00pm “CHRISTMAS TREE SERVICE” CHURCHSTOKE 6.30 “ADVENT PRAISE” Ratlinghope (Mette Wardle)

FRIDAY 21 DECEMBER RATLINGHOPE CAROL SERVICE 6.30pm

SUNDAY 23 DECEMBER 6.30pm BENEFICE “CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT” MORE

MONDAY 24 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS EVE 4.00 “CAROLS ROUND THE CRIB” CHURCHSTOKE 4.30 “CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PARTY” WENTNOR 6.30 HYSSINGTON “CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT” 11.30 MIDNIGHT COMMUNION WENTNOR

TUESDAY 25 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS DAY 9.45 HOLY COMMUNION WITH CAROLS NORBURY (Canon Julia Francis) 9.45 HOLY COMMUNION WITH CAROLS RATLINGHOPE 10.30 HOLY COMMUNION WITH CAROLS CHURCHSTOKE (Preb Michael Pollit) 11.15 HOLY COMMUNION WITH CAROLS LYDHAM

THURSDAY 27 DECEMBER 6.00pm MYNDTOWN CAROL SERVICE

SUNDAY 30 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS 1 10.30 BENEFICE COMMUNION SERVICE MORE

SUNDAY 6 JANUARY EPIPHANY 8.00 Holy Communion Lydham 9.15 Holy Communion Hyssington 9.45 Extended Holy Communion & All Age Service Ratlinghope (Canon Julia Francis) 10.30 Family Worship Churchstoke Community Hall (David Jelves/Capt Jon Price) 11.15 “New Year Service” Covenant & HC Norbury 6.30 “New Year Service” Covenant & HC Wentnor

SUNDAY 13 JANUARY EPIPHANY 1 8.30 Holy Communion Wentnor 9.45 Holy Communion Ratlinghope 11.15 Holy Communion More (Rev Jo Evans) 11.15 Holy Communion Churchstoke 6.30 “Plough Sunday” Service Norbury

SUNDAY 20 JANUARY EPIPHANY 2 8.30 Holy Communion Ratlinghope 10.00 Extended Holy Communion Hyssington (Canon Julia Francis) 11.15 Morning Praise Churchstoke Community Hall (David Jelves) 11.15 Morning Praise Lydham 6.30 Plough Sunday” Service Wentnor

SUNDAY 27 JANUARY SEPTUAGESIMA 8.30 Holy Communion Norbury 9.45 Holy Communion Myndtown 9.45 Morning Praise Ratlinghope Lay led 11.15 Holy Communion Churchstoke (Preb Michael Pollit) 11.15 Holy Communion More

Weekday Morning Prayer at 8.30am Join us for a short service at our parish churches. Friday 7 Dec More; 14 Dec. Churchstoke; 21 Dec. Wentnor; 11 Jan. Lower Snead; Wednesday 16 Jan. Ratlinghope; 25 Jan. Norbury; 1 Feb.Lydham All are welcome at the SUNDAY 23 DECEMBER 6.30pm BENEFICE “CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT” at MORE. For various reasons, the singing of Carols will all be congregational this year so would all those who have sung in the Benefice Choir in past years please sit in the choir stalls to lead the singing from there – many thanks.

AROUND THE PARISHES: NEWS UPDATES The launch of Mary Hardham’s CD "G IS FOR GOD" - nine Worship songs was due to have taken place on Sunday 25 November at the 9.45 Ratlinghope Lay Led service These CDs are now available for sale at £8 each - further details from Mary Hardham 01588 650362 – this is a wonderful initiative on the party of Mary and we will all we will all benefit from having CDs of her singing which carries such an encouraging Christian message!

Thanks to The Crown, Wentnor for hosting the Annual Wentnor Harvest Supper on 2 November which was a very happy occasion with over 45 diners and £100 raised with the raffle.

LOCAL MINISTRY NEWS: The Local Ministry Development Group with its focus on Prayer, Pastoral Visiting and Home Communions has been meeting monthly across the parishes. We share news of those we have visited as we seek to pray for all those who are in any kind of need. Please be in touch with any member if you know of anyone who would like to be visited. Current Members are: Anita Bright, David Hardham, Trish Macmullan; David Jelves; Margaret Wallsgrove, Shirley Jones, Bob Berry (Convenor) , Canon Julia Francis & Rev Norman Morris.

THE ONNY CAMLAD QUILT Thanks to everyone who bought draw tickets for the Onny Camlad Quilt. The draw took place at The Crown Inn, Wentnor, on 17th October. WINNING TICKET NUMBER: 00980 the delighted winner lives and works locally in the Community College so no problem about posting to New Zealand, London, America or many of the other far flung places that our tickets got to. Thanks to Shaun and Steve, and the other wonderful cake-makers who fed us at the draw event. We tried really hard, the small group of us who attended, to do justice to the spread of cream cakes, chocolate cakes, huge sponges, scones and cream etc. The sum raised of £1,050 was shared between Hope House and the Severn Hospice. Extra money collected at the event added about £75 to the total. Kelly Goodall and Mike Perry the Hospice representatives both spoke about the work of the Hospices and were very happy with their cheques and with the cakes they took away to share with their staff. Thanks again to all who supported this project From the Onny Camlad Quilters.

Lydham News: Holy Trinity Church, Lydham "100" Club Lydham PCC has a "100" Club lottery to raise funds to keep its 800 year old church open and provide monthly to three lucky winners a cash prize. Subscribers must be over 16 and the annual subscription is £12. Application Forms for the Lydham 100 Club monthly draw are available from Jimmy Garnier tel 01588-638486 or Neil Hird tel 01588-638379 or [email protected] First Prize £26.50 Mrs. MD Wright Second Prize £15.90 Mrs. Sheila Leeke Third Prize £10.60 Mrs. Paula Brayford Ratlinghope 200 Club - September Winners £20 - Claire Fildes £15 - Mandy Black £ 5 - Philip Rowson. Looking after nine Churchyards is a huge undertaking for all our churches, so now the “growing season” is over, on behalf of everyone, again may I extend to all our grass-cutters a “big thank you “ for all your hard work in the course of the summer! Its an immense list of people and w e are fortunate there’s still so much voluntary help that’s goes into looking after our churches and churchyards – and I am mindful to of the church cleaning and flower arranging that goes go all through the year. At Wentnor in the new churchyard we employ a professional gardener (volunteers cut the grass in the old churchyard) and some Wentnor parishioners with family links provide annual donations to pay for this care - so further contributions are always welcome to maintain the new Wentnor churchyard We are fortunate some much good work goes on looking after our churches and churchyards. BENEFICE BOOK GROUP: Contact: The Rector 650244 Upcoming books “Some do it” by Ford Madox Ford & “Guidance for the Aspiring Englishman" by Natasha Solomons. BIBLE STUDY GROUP: New members always welcome! Contact: The Rector 01588 650 IONA WEEK April 26th to Sat May 3rd 2014. In the past years we have had wonderful pilgrimages to Iona in 2007, 2009 and 2012 which were much enjoyed. Hilary Rosanikiewicz (nee Jackson) is planning to take a party to Iona again, staying at Bishop's House, Iona, in April 2014. Hilary and her husband Ross are already making up a party. There are still places for 3 more couples or friends for 3 twin rooms at Bishop’s House. If you would like to join the party or simply would like to find out more, please be in touch with the Rector or Hilary and Ross 01432 761588 who now live near Hereford.

Snead TAI CHI NEWS: TAI CHI beginners ‘class; Thursday mornings from 10.30 am to 12 noon; At Hyssington Village Hall; £5 per session; Contact: Pam Blaxland 01588 638145 or [email protected] Age UK Lunches for those 60 & over at the Crown Inn, Wentnor, 12 Noon for 12.30pm Normally SECOND WEDNESDAY in the month – NEXT LUNCHES WEDNESDAY 12 NOVEMBER & WEDNESDAY 9 JANUARY to book your meal please ring Rachel Bright 01588 650242 and THIRD TUESDAY in the month, NEXT LUNCHES TUESDAY 18 DECEMBER & TUESDAY 15 JANUARY Please ring Margaret Cooke 01588 650280 to make a booking Age UK: Mrs. Janet Brandon on 01588 650232 – is your Age Concern Parish Link – who will be pleased to help you. AROUND THE WIs Norbury & District WI: Thursday 13 December TANGLIN BELLS Hostesses: The Committee; Flowers & Competition: Christmas Table decorations – Thursday 10 January Speaker: PETER FRANCIS “Wild Edric: the man behind the Legend” Hostesses: Janet Brandon, Liv Goode & Doris Roberts Flowers: Mary Atkins Competition: Wayside Flora Lydham, More & Snead WI: Thursday 13 December Christmas meal TBA Onny Valley Social Club: Usually meeting at Norbury Village Hall New members welcome. Monthly meetings on first Tuesday afternoon in the month in Norbury Village Hall – Tuesday 4 December Christmas Dinner venue TBA; Tuesday 8 January Soup & Pudding Lunch 12.30 for 1.00pm; summer outings. Churchstoke “Over-Sixties”: Meet alternative Wednesdays 3.00pm Churchstoke Community Hall contact: Margaret Chislett 01588 620310, Age UK: contact Mrs. Janet Brandon on 01588 650232 – Age Concern Parish Link – who is pleased to help.

TWENTY YEARS AGO! Parish Share was in the news and churches were being asked to find a 12.5% increase due to funding from the Church Commissioners being reduced owing to investment losses; Clun was beginning its Tower repairs; Clungunford had had a successful Christmas Bazaar which raised over £500 while Stowe raised £600 at theirs; Francis Carlos warned of the problems of winter travelling – he had already been pulled out of November mud by a Churchwarden using an old church bell rope; Hereford’s new Corona in memory of Bishop John Eastlaugh was being dedicated; Terry Bryan welcomed anyone to join a Games Group at the Churchstoke Vicarage. FLOWERS/CLEANING: (From now on notification will be through the churches) Table Tennis! Open to all! Anyone wanting a good game! Often taking place Mondays at Norbury Village Hall 2- 3pm for details contact The Rector 01588 650244 Find out what is going on across the Hereford diocese at the website at www.hereford.anglican.org - have a look at the Notice board. For details of service times at the Cathedral, please telephone 01432 374212 or visit the cathedral website www.herefordcathedral.org. Want a Magazine? Know someone who would like one? Please encourage sales & distribution! Please contact Margaret Cooke 01588 650280 (Shropshire & Snead parishes) Myndtown Combined Parish Council Contact: Parish Clerk Mrs. L Thomas 01588 650509. Wentnor Stores: The Post Office OUTREACH service is OPEN on TUESDAY 9.00AM – 11.00am - offering personal banking, Car Tax & Euros- please support our village shop WENTNOR STORES as much as possible! Bus enquiries: 0870 241 2 216 National Rail Enquires: 08457 484950 Hall Bookings: Norbury 650660 Anita (or if need be Rev Norman Morris 650244) – Lydham 638737 – Hyssington Village Hall: 01588 620197 - do use our halls! Norbury Village Hall: Tables, chairs, hostess trolley, crockery, & boiler available for hire 01588 650660 The Rector is always available to discuss Wedding and Christening dates at any time Office Hour: Saturday morning at The Rectory 9-10am. Tel: 01588 650244. House Communion is available to anyone who cannot easily get to Church. Photocopying at The Rectory: 5p per sheet – reductions for longer runs. Bishop’s Castle Dial-a-Ride and Community Car scheme: Available for individuals or groups regardless of age or disability. All journeys must be pre-booked. Volunteer drivers and escorts urgently required for this worthwhile community service. Contact: Adrian Varcoe or ring 01588 638350.