512 Slate April 2021 FINAL

Issue No 512 April 2021 Stockey Woods success

Oxfordshire County Council has finally What does village green status mean? It granted Stockey Woods ‘Village Green’ could be said that everything has changed status. In 2016 Tricia Astle and others and nothing has changed. The woods are still collected voluminous evidence from village the property of Blenheim Estate who will residents and groups, including the Scouts continue to be responsible for managing the and Primary School, showing how they had trees. Stonesfield residents can continue to enjoyed the woods ‘as of right’ for many use the woods as they always have. The decades. She submitted the evidence and difference is that those rights have now been application. Blenheim Estate, the landowner, enshrined in law in perpetuity. objected to the application, triggering an It is really important that villagers respect eight-day public inquiry. Tricia sought legal the woods, which is a Site of Special Scientific advice. After substantial legal submissions, Interest (SSSI) like the Common. To keep it Blenheim graciously withdrew its objection. beautiful, please follow these simple rules: no Having considered yet further legal camping, fires or barbeques; no unauthorised submissions and evidence, OCC approved the motor vehicles; take litter home; keep dogs application on 24 February 2021. under control; pick up and take your dog poo Congratulations are due to Tricia in the first home; do not damage trees or pick flowers. place, and Jim Astle and many others for David Brown, Stonesﬁeld Parish Council supporting the campaign through to a Richard Morris, Sustainable Stonesﬁeld successful conclusion.

April 2021 Stonesfield Slate 1 A sharp eye for detail? The Stonesfield Slate is seeking an additional editor to join the team. If you have a sharp eye for detail then see page 8 for more information.

Disclaimer The Stonesfield Slate is a village amenity, produced and distributed by volunteers. It can not be held responsible for any of the views expressed in its pages nor does it endorse any of the products or services advertised. Whilst we strive to ensure all information is correct, we are not responsible for anything that happens as a result of you using the information. If you find any errors or omissions then please contact the Publisher and we will endeavour to correct them. The editor and the publishers reserve the right to edit, shorten or omit any article submitted. Advertisements For boxed ads please email [email protected] for full details of availability, sizes, requirements and cost. Line ads: £2.00 per 30 words. Advertisements should be emailed to [email protected] by 10th of the month. Line ads can also be delivered by hand to: Diane & Paul Bates, Waterloo Barn, Laughton Hill, Stonesfield, OX29 8DY. All advertisements must be paid for in advance.

Publishers Editor for May issue Copy: Diane & Paul Bates, Trisha Williams Deadline for next issue 15 April Waterloo Barn, Laughton Hill, (891960) Please email copy to Stonesﬁeld, OX29 8DY [email protected] [email protected] (898841) or contact the Editor. slate-pub@stonesfield.online

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2 April 2021 Stonesﬁeld Slate Notices & news

Alan Parsons and latterly Parish Clerk. It was in this role Alan Parsons, the last of the eight children that I first came to know them both. She of Emily and Jim Parsons, died in early was an excellent clerk; I was very lucky February. The Parsons family is well indeed to have her knowledge and known in Stonesfield, all of the children expertise in the work of the Council and being born and raised in the village and the village. She was fully and ably only one of the eight moved away. Our supported by Rob. Whilst I was on the thoughts are with Alan and Grace’s son, Council, their kitchen table, flanked by Roger. Libby and Rob, became a hub for difficult decisions and became the source of much Jenny Haviland animated discussion and excellent advice. Rob helped Libby with her work for Riding Robin Hartwell for the Disabled and as secretary to the Robin (Rob) was the epitome of a Cotswold Stonesfield Community Trust. country gentleman. He first came to Rob always maintained an ‘open door’ Stonesfield in 1958 and quickly became a policy at Broadlands, giving generously of much-respected part of the fabric of the his time and in more practical terms. village. Those in need or distress often found a He was a friendly and open-hearted man refuge in their home. Some of the more who always seemed to have time to spare unusual aspects of Rob’s life were his for not only the village itself but also for all delivery service to villagers of truck loads who lived here. Whenever there was a need of manure, either to individual homes or to to tidy up the village, or clip an errant the allotments on Churchfields and hedge, take down a stray branch, tend any Woodstock Road. He was recognised as the of the public tubs or wash a dirty sign, Rob ‘go to’ person when deer or other wild could be seen doing just that. animals were found injured on our roads. In times of heavy snowfall, Rob in his Land He quickly recognised a need for a Rover facilitated the delivery of meals-on- supporting hand; was a sympathetic friend wheels around the village and its and ever a good listener. Whatever the surrounds. problem or difficulty, he had a solution, not just verbally but also often followed by Personally, I shall be forever grateful that I practical help. And, of course, his outgoing had the privilege of knowing both Rob and and warm personality was not just for Libby. They were far more than colleagues public consumption. He was a tremendous - rather, dear friends. Many folk in the support to his family. Libby, as was Rob, village will miss him and feel a sense of was involved in many of the village causes loss and emptiness in village life, but none and groups, including Parish Council Chair as much as his immediate family. To his

April 2021 Stonesfield Slate 3 children, Judy, Penny, Martin, Sarah and Scout Association guidelines. If your son or Richard; to his grandchildren, Tom, Millie, daughter is involved in Beavers, Cubs or Alfie, Henry and Rory, the feeling that they Scouts, then you should have received an have lost an immeasurably important facet email with more details from the Group of their lives must, surely, be tempered by Scout Leader, and we will keep you the affection and pride they know is updated. If they are not involved, and wish justified in the memories they have of Rob. to be, then please email us at [email protected]. Richard Bishop Outside preparations for the return, we The Little Easter Garden have been busy preparing to raise funds for the new Scout Hut. Additionally, a We are celebrating Easter with a real/ competition has been held for all Beavers, pretend little garden by the porch door to Cubs and Scouts to create a poster that St James’s Church, from Monday 29 March shows the community what it means to and onwards until well after Easter Day. them to be part of the Scout Group. There are fruit-boxes filled with earth for Finally, the Group needs you and your plants and jam jars with water for posies. skills in order that we can continue to All are invited to join in and add whatever deliver a varied programme for our young little plants you can spare, a stone for the people. The Beavers and Cubs Sections little path and flowers to make it pretty. In need Leaders. The Group, and Leaders one box there is a tomb made of particularly, would benefit from your time Stonesfield slates and the stone guarding and administrative skills including checks, the entrance to it will be rolled away on badge ordering and collection, as well as Easter Sunday morning: 4 April. social media updates. Please contact Dear village friends, do take part as mini- Jonathan Hands at gsl@stonesfield- gardeners! We have no bonnet parade this scouts.org.uk if you wish to be involved at year in the Manor garden (boo-hoo!) so any level. this is our socially-distanced gesture of Ben Whitworth, Chair, 1st Stonesﬁeld Scouts love and fun. Please bring your contributions and your heart to it. Suriya Express shop hours Charlotte Oakeshott and Alison Eastwood From the beginning of April, shop opening hours will revert to the usual arrangement: Scouting returns to Stonesﬁeld Monday-Friday: 07.00 – 20.00 Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays: As we hope to see life return to normal, we 08.00 – 20.00 are pleased to say that 1st Stonesfield Scouts are making plans to start up again The Post Office retains its usual hours: after Easter in the week commencing Monday – Friday: 09.00 – 17.00; Monday 19 April. The return will be Saturday: 09.00 – 13.00 and is closed on dependent on a number of factors and each Sunday, although Mat and Rekha will be Section within the Group is planning on happy to serve you at any time during shop how they can meet safely and within the opening hours.

4 April 2021 Stonesfield Slate Road closures Broadband outage Oxfordshire Highways (OCC) have granted In carrying out work at Pond Hill / Church Gigaclear a number of Temporary Traffic Street junction on 18 March Gigaclear’s Regulation Orders (TTRO) for road contractors severed the fibre cable closures whilst laying fibre-optic currently providing broadband to much of broadband cables in Stonesfield. the west of Stonesfield. Current TTROs are: Openreach arrived quickly and at one point had eight vehicles in the area. Due to issues Laughton Hill: 18 May – 4 June feeding a new cable through the existing Pond Hill: 7 June – 14 June duct, services were not resumed until late Church Street: 15 June – 23 July the following day. High Street: 26 July – 2 August Gigaclear issued a statement: ‘We are Peaks Lane: 3 August – 16 August currently installing our ultrafast fibre Boot Street: 17 August – 27 August broadband network in your community. Although it is very rare, we do occasionally These are 24-hour per day closures disrupt an existing utility connection while although the notices state that access will digging our trenching for our network, as it be maintained for emergency service is not always possible to locate the existing vehicles and for those frontages within the cable. This has happened in Stonesfield to closure area, subject to the progress of the a part of the Openreach network, and works. Openreach are currently on site working to More details of closures and diversions are rectify the situation as soon as possible. We posted on www.stonesfield.online/news apologise for any inconvenience caused. If when the notices are received from OCC by anybody does have any questions, please the Parish Clerk. By registering on contact our Network Build Care team at www.stonesfield.online you receive [email protected] or by automatic notification when new items are calling 01865 591137.’ posted. Gigiclear have also informed the Parish Council of works that will be affecting Pond Hill: 18 March – 4 April Busby Close: 22 March – 2 April Longore: 5 April – 3 May More information on road closures and other road works can be found on www.one.network/custom/oxfordshire/ Stonesfield Website Editor webeditor@stonesfield.online Repairing the break at Church Street

April 2021 Stonesfield Slate 5 • Ensure your dog is microchipped, your Village Hall news contact details are up-to-date and the In the hope that lockdown is soon to be dog has an ID tag with your name, eased, we are gearing up to re-open and address and phone number. offer the community the outlet for More advice is available at: activities that I think we have all missed bluecross.org.uk/pet-advice/protect-your- and need. It will be slightly different, as dog-against-theft. there will be restrictions in place for some time to come regarding numbers that can Viv Kendall attend and the social distancing aspect, but we have had a year’s worth of practising Thank you, litter pickers! now to cope with what will probably be the To all of the Stonesfield and surrounds ‘new normal’. litter picking heroes, thank you! The This is an ideal time for people to think response to my piece in the March issue of about what activities they have enjoyed the Slate has been fantastic with the new doing in the Hall in the past and what they Parish Council litter pickers regularly would like to do now and in the future. We being booked and taken on litter picking are starting to book our classes and events walks (even jogs!) There have been some so please do get in touch and let us know if interesting finds …. you would like to start running an activity, I also wanted to thank the litter pickers or if there is a big event coming up that you who habitually pick up litter every day, or think we would be able to accommodate. every week, and have been doing so for If you have any questions or ideas, please months, even years. Thank you. contact Jacqueline at With our combined efforts, a huge amount [email protected] or leave a of rubbish has been removed (and message on the booking line 898919. hopefully recycled) from our pavements, Jacqueline Carthew, Secretary & Booking Clerk verges and hedgerows, not only making Stonesfield and its surrounds look tidier Dog theft but, more importantly, helping our environment and the wildlife within it. The reported increase in dog theft over the last few years, fuelled by the pandemic, is If you would like to book a litter picker, do clearly a worry for dog owners - but we are please get in touch on 07970 107805 or at told by local police that it is not a problem [email protected]. And if you that is increasing locally. ever spot an area which needs litter picking, do please let me know so that we Don’t be over-alarmed but follow this can focus our efforts where needed as advice from the Warwickshire Police and required. the Blue Cross: Jess Huband • Never leave dogs unattended in a garden or car, or tied up outside shops. • Vary your walks, including times and routes.

6 April 2021 Stonesfield Slate as soon as we are able to do so. If you are Hospital transport interested in becoming a Friend of We are delighted to begin offering Stonesfield Library, we would be delighted voluntary transport for Stonesfield – please contact me on the telephone residents to the JR and Churchill number below for more information. Hospitals, the Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre Meanwhile, please stay safe. and the Horton Hospital in Banbury. For some time, we have felt that it would be Mike Pollitt (891856) much more helpful to take people all the way to the hospitals rather than to the Becoming a Celebrant Oxford Parkway Park & Ride as we did Looking for ways in which I could make previously. We can now take that step. good use of time which had unexpectedly As for all our more local journeys, full opened up, last autumn I trained to Covid-19 safety precautions will be become a funeral celebrant. observed. You might not be familiar with the term… We do welcome donations towards but some people nowadays choose to have expenses for hospital visits, which are a funeral that is not in church. These non- proportional with those for local trips. If religious services often take place in a appointments are expected to last longer crematorium - my first funeral was in the than about two hours, we may need to send new one at Tackley - or at a Natural Burial two drivers; one to take you and one to Ground (Tackley or Leafield), but in truth, collect and bring you home. they can take place anywhere you wish. Please contact me on the number below if The celebrant is the civil priest. They work we can help you. closely with a funeral director so that all the arrangements run smoothly on the day. Viv Kendall (891803) They meet the family, hear all about the Stonesfield Voluntary Transport Scheme deceased, and then create a service that celebrates the deceased life, history, Stonesfield Library achievements and personality using music, poetry and bespoke prayers. The aim is to Although Stonesfield Library remains shape a spiritually uplifting and deeply closed for the moment and we have no personal tribute that fits into the all-too- information as to when it may be brief allotted time. Compressing a life into permitted to re-open, some other larger 40 minutes can be a daunting and difficult libraries in the county will be opening from process; with gentle guidance, it can 12 April. At the time of going to press, I become a creative and healing experience. have not been informed which of the main libraries will be opening initially; however, I have become acutely aware of the trust when I am notified, I will place the placed in the celebrant. A service created information on Nextdoor Stonesfield. and conducted with respect, dignity, empathy and love is in fact a gift to the All I can say is that the library volunteers bereaved. It allows them to express their are very much looking forward to grief, to give thanks for the life of their welcoming our customers into our library

April 2021 Stonesfield Slate 7 loved one, and to say a formal goodbye. people to help us open the Mill from Using a webcast, services can now be stewards to engineers, people who like transmitted live to all those unable to mending and maintaining things, making attend. A funeral can be something the tea and coffee, cutting cakes and family is proud of: a memory they can sandwiches, people who can use treasure and share. computers, cameras, ticket office machines and social media, alongside many other Caroline Friend skill areas. If you would enjoy welcoming [email protected] exhibitors and visitors, both young and old, with a wide range of interests and needs, Combe Mill we would love to hear from you. During a year of a variety of lockdown Coming soon will be ‘Bring your Mate to regulations, the Mill has stood solid by the the Mill Day’ - we would love to make some flowing (and sometimes overflowing) more mates… Evenlode, just waiting for humans to return in greater numbers. Tony Simmons [email protected] The directors are now busy with the preparations for the ‘Big Spring Clean’ at the Mill. Now admittedly this is going to Retiring Editor happen a bit later than normal and is a One of our team has decided to ‘retire’ huge undertaking. It is not easy cleaning a from her role as a Slate editor. Our grateful stone building that is a hundred plus years thanks go to Lynda Parkinson for her years old, with several engines, a forge and a of precise and conscientious editing – I water wheel on the ground floor. Then we think she has actually done two separate have to think about getting the thousands stints in that role. Thank you very much, of artefacts that are stored upstairs at the Lynda - we greatly appreciate your good, Mill looking their best. It is really good reliable contribution to this village team news that we can finally begin to talk about effort. getting ready for the return of visitors. The consequence of her stepping down is that we now need another editor! Lynda has been doing the autumn editions, working in mid-August, mid-September, and mid-October. A computer, typing skills, an internet connection, and a sharp eye for detail are needed. There may be some flexibility in which months are taken on, through negotiation with the other Blacksmiths at Combe Mill three editors. My question this month is - would you like to be part of this volunteer team? We are For more details of what the task entails, looking to recruit across many areas in the please contact Dale in the first instance Mill – not just those who are good with a Dale Morris (898210) duster or cloth. We need a whole range of [email protected]

8 April 2021 Stonesﬁeld Slate Politics & local affairs

Stonesﬁeld Parish Council Defibrillator: A replacement battery has (SPC) been purchased and a service has been From the meeting held 3 March booked. A service for the Pre-School’s 2021 defibrillator is also being arranged. Elections: There are District and County Planning: 21/00414/HHD: The Parish Council elections in May. The Parish Council resolved to have no objection to Council does not have elections this year. this application. White Horse Pub: Steve Callaghan Village survey: It was agreed to try and provided the Clerk with a record of how the move forward with a neighbourhood plan £4,000 grant which SPC gave the instead of a survey. The Parish Council will Community Pub Group had been establish whether there is a dedicated expended. The pub has been purchased by officer at the District Council in this Jon Bowers and not the Community Pub respect, and look into the situation Group. Jon Bowers does intend to open as regarding grants. The Neighbourhood Plan a public house. The pub has been subjected champions in the first instance will be Cllr to vandalism which has flooded some areas Gould, Cllr McArdell and Cllr Powell. and as a result security has had to be Art Project: SPC has instructed Genny increased. SPC is impressed with the Early to commence on the bench art community’s efforts to raise funds and project for which funding is provided by looks forward to seeing the pub re-open. WODC via S106. It is hoped to have the Trees: Paul Orsi of the Sylva Foundation, bench in place for the summer. which promotes sustainable forest Litter picking/cycle signage: The Clerk management, gave a short presentation on conveyed Jess Huband’s thanks to the trees to SPC. With regard to tree planting Council for the cycle signs which are in Stonesfield, it is necessary to look at a currently being installed. The Council short, medium and long-term plan reciprocated by thanking Jess for including locations, maintenance and managing the litter picking exercise and costs. SPC welcomes ideas surrounding equipment, and also thanked all the litter these issues and, if any landowners wish to pickers who have helped to keep the village participate, they should get in touch with tidy. the Clerk ([email protected]) Trespassing: Incidents of trespassing Recycling Centre: According to WODC, across Ollie Stobo’s land continue. There Stonesfield’s recycling facility will be are rules on how this land is to be managed removed; as yet SPC has not been advised and the trespass and damage is hampering when this will happen. this requirement. The Police are involved and the Blenheim Estate has repaired the

April 2021 Stonesfield Slate 9 damage to fencing three times to date. The equipment and support you need to do Parish Council has asked councillors to set something amazing for your community. an example and respect the land, and will For more information, please call us on meet with the Blenheim Estate and Ollie 01962 898090 or email at [email protected] Stobo to see if a collective resolution to this advising where you are based. problem can be found. St John’s Ambulance also have a first Date of next full Parish Council responder programme; more information (public) meeting: Wednesday 7 April on this can be found at: www.sja.org.uk/ 2021 at 7pm (Zoom virtual meeting). get-involved/volunteer-opportunities/ community-first-responders/ Community and Co- Responders: South Central Cycle to School Signs Ambulance Service New signage is now in place marking the Stonesfield Parish Council would really like route from Stonesfield to Woodstock for to see us have a community responder in students cycling to The Marlborough our rural village. If you might be interested School and using the approved route via in this role, please read on for further the Blenheim Estate. information from South Central Ambulance Service. The 'School Cycle Route' signs were designed by SAFER. However a big thank Be a real lifesaver for your community: If you goes to OCC who provided the funding you are physically fit, have access to a to manufacture the signs. The design went vehicle and want to make a life-saving through an approval process with OCC difference to your community, please think Highways before permission was granted about becoming a community responder. If to erect the signs on the highway. you would like to help us in emergency situations, then become a Volunteer Cllr Michael Heduan MBE Community First Responder. You will be SAFER (Parish Council Working Group) trained by SCAS to deal with medical m.heduan@stonesﬁeldpc.uk emergencies, providing sometimes life- saving first aid to a patient in the crucial minutes before an ambulance arrives. After attending an initial five-day training course (spread over a couple of weekends and evenings) and an annual one-day refresher course, the commitment we ask of you is to make yourself available for at least 20 hours each month. You can choose the times to fit around your other commitments and you ‘respond’ from home or perhaps your workplace. We will provide you with all the training,

Cycle Route sign on Combe Road

10 April 2021 Stonesfield Slate Resulting from the difficulties of the Village Travel Network pandemic, it was felt necessary to SAFER, a working group of Stonesfield undertake a re-forecast for all the Parish Council, is helping establish the proposals. Upon completion, this exercise Village Travel Network in conjunction with was found to be surprisingly accurate in other local communities. Road safety and the altered situation. sustainable travel are at the heart of the VTN project to help link communities In the event, Council has achieved a together. balanced and robust budget. It has managed to maintain in full all existing Planning for the VTN is now underway and services to our residents and, importantly a dedicated project team has been for our villages, retains all grant facilities in established made up of representatives full. Additionally, Council has confirmed from Bladon, Combe, Glympton, its support for the West Oxfordshire free Hanborough, Stonesfield, Woodstock and parking arrangements across the district. Wootton. For the first time in several years, the The VTN initiative aims to create a budget was passed unanimously by all network of safer walking, cycling and parties with their full and unequivocal riding networks that link villages and support. Members of all parties were communities together. Routes in the complimentary of the provisions contained network will provide safer and more in the proposals. sustainable options for local communities that avoid busy roads, pollution and will Grants to businesses in West Oxfordshire enable recreational and well-being are now well over 85% completed with benefits. 1,307 grants amounting to over £7.1m. The last round of grants expired on 14 February Currently the team are planning the overall whilst the next tranche of payments objectives for the project and producing a covering 16 February to 31 March will be detailed project plan to deliver the VTN paid as soon as possible with any new strategy and vision. Further updates will applicants being processed continually. appear in the Slate as this project gets off the ground. A full Council agreed a Climate Change Strategy for West Oxfordshire. This Cllr Michael Heduan MBE includes a robust carbon action plan which SAFER (Parish Council Working Group) was originally proposed in October 2020 www.stonesfield.online/safer/ and is now reinforced by the Council’s m.heduan@stonesfieldpc.uk focus on climate action and defined by a framework for its delivery, its vision and priorities. From our District Councillor The most immediate work of the District It was noted that the West Oxfordshire Council during the last few weeks has been Plan for the delivery of new homes each consideration and confirmation of the year up to 2031 was well up to expectations budget for 2021/2022. with the annual quotas being met.

April 2021 Stonesfield Slate 11 At its last meeting, Combe Parish Council application form can be requested from: asked me to give a brief over-view of the www.westoxon.gov.uk/about-the- Salt Cross Garden Village proposals. In no council/elections-and-voting/register- particular order this covered: an integrated to-vote. transport hub; links to Hanborough • Proxy voting: If a resident is unable to station; two new roundabouts onto the attend their polling station, they can A40; a park-and-ride centre; electric nominate someone to be their proxy and vehicle charging points; 2,200 new homes cast their vote for them. The proxy must with a mix of commercial and affordable be a registered voter and able to attend prices; two new schools; a doctor’s surgery; the voter’s own polling station. a business/science/technology park; a Applications for proxy voting need to be system of pedestrian and cycle paths; and a sent to the District Council no later than proposed cycle hire facility. The whole 5pm on Tuesday 27 April. development will strive to be carbon- neutral utilising 100% renewable energy. More information about the local elections This is a very potted and brief summary for 2021 can be found at the WODC but it will give some substance to the website: www.westoxon.gov.uk/about-the- generic ideals of the development. More council/elections-and-voting/current-and- details can be found on the WODC website. future-elections/.

With the Covid restrictions being loosened Climate Change Strategy shortly, may I wish you all a safe, if only WODC has passed a new Climate Change partial, return towards a more normal life. Strategy. This has been developed Spring is upon us – let us all try to enjoy it. following consultation with residents and Cllr Richard Bishop (891414) businesses in 2020 and with the support of a cross-party working group and will [email protected]) provide a broad framework for how the Council’s climate action priorities will be More news from West achieved over the next four years. The Oxfordshire strategy sets out five key areas of focus Local elections which have been identified as having the WODC have issued the following guidance most impact in tackling climate change: in respect of the local elections which take • Protecting and restoring natural place on 6 May. ecosystems • Registering to vote: Anyone wishing to • Energy vote must be registered on the electoral • Active travel and low-carbon transport register. The deadline to make an New development standards, and application is Monday 19 April. For • more information and to register, please • Education and engagement see: www.gov.uk/register-to-vote. WODC will report annually on progress made. A copy of the strategy can be found • Postal voting: Those wishing to vote by at: www.westoxon.gov.uk/environment/ post this year need to ensure that they climate-action/climate-change-strategy. apply before 20 April. A postal vote

12 April 2021 Stonesﬁeld Slate The road resurfacing programme will be Oxfordshire County Council starting soon with (hopefully) the better (OCC) weather. There will be road closures as The County Council set the budget on 9 follows, although local access will be February with investments in key priority allowed: areas for residents despite all the challenges of the pandemic. There is 12 – 15 April: £200,000 for the roll-out of 20mph speed Woodstock Road, Stonesfield limits for towns and villages which want to Castle Road and Castle Street, Wootton work with the Council and see this as a way 15 – 19 May: to achieve safer streets. I have registered the request that all councils in the A4095, Bladon Woodstock division are part of the The reduction in the number of Covid-19 programme. There is also an additional infections is welcome news as this results £200,000 for drainage and vegetation in fewer hospital admissions and reduces clearance, targeting particular areas which pressure on the NHS. The vaccination are prone to flooding. programme is being rolled out at pace and There is an investment of £1m long-term I want to thank those helping to ensure funding to expand the youth offer in everybody gets a jab. Oxfordshire County Oxfordshire with an additional £500,000 Council is working with its partners to one-off accelerator funding to develop assist where required and will continue to sustainable long-term approaches and to help protect vulnerable residents across help tackle the impact of the pandemic on the county. young people. The road map set out by the Government There was a 1.99% increase to ‘core’ gives us a view of the way forward which is council tax along with a levy of 1% for adult welcome news. However, we must all social care. Given the level of uncertainties, continue to play our part by observing the including regarding Covid-19, we will guidelines so that life can return to what continue to take a cautious and measured will be a new normal as quickly as possible. approach towards managing our budgets. Ian Hudspeth (07956 270318) We are very conscious that the need for [email protected] extra funding must be balanced against the pressures on residents' incomes during the pandemic. This is not an easy time, financially or otherwise, for businesses, residents and families.

April 2021 Stonesfield Slate 13 Education, culture & more

Stonesﬁeld Pre-School We have also been fortunate this term to As I write this month’s entry, the children have Grace Gleeson volunteering with us. are very busy in the garden. There has been Grace is studying Early Childhood Studies rain overnight, a puddle sits in the middle at Gloucester University and has spent of the garden and all I can hear is the several work placements with us over the sound of sheer enjoyment. A member of past few years. She is a great help and the staff fills a tray with water, another fills children love her. We wish Grace lots of spray bottles and I see one of our older luck for her final year. children trying to work out how to In Term 5 we welcome five new children transport water from the tray to an empty and their families and also a new staff box - and he finally realises that all he member, Georgia Townsend, who will be needs is another child’s jug. Friendships starting on our return after Easter. She is a are beginning to form with the older qualified Early Years Practitioner with children; we see this every year just as they several years’ experience and has are about to start big school. They walk previously qualified and worked as a dental across the garden; I can’t hear what is said, nurse. but I can tell a deal has been made: ‘my cup for your jug’, all sorted, and both Finally, on behalf of all the Pre-School children appear happy with this exchange. Committee, the staff and the children, we The children love playing with water. They would like to thank the Community Trust learn so much: filling, emptying, pouring, for their kind grant that has enabled us to floating, sinking, and most of all child-led buy two new iPads complete with cases and fun. Oh, and not to spray each other! a much-needed canopy for the garden to create shade and shelter. Thank you very Term 4 proved to be very enjoyable; we much. continued with traditional tales, made Mother’s Day cards and celebrated Easter. Louise John Our caterpillars arrived slightly earlier than usual. If you are wondering? Every Stonesﬁeld Primary School year we receive five tiny, and I mean tiny, It’s been an absolute pleasure to welcome caterpillars. They grow by the day as they our children back to school this month. are very hungry and eat all the food they The school is buzzing and feels alive once are given. They then turn into cocoons and more; our community is back together we wait patiently for them to turn into five again. Children have been well supported beautiful Painted Lady butterflies. So, this emotionally with the transition back to leads us nicely into next term’s main theme school and it has been a delight to walk of the life cycles of frogs, plants, birds and around the school and see the smiles and butterflies. hear the laughter as children reconnect

14 April 2021 Stonesﬁeld Slate with each other and remember the joy of looks bright, and working together as a learning alongside their friends. community we can forge the path for our children’s futures. Staff would like to say a huge thank you to parents, and in some instances Ben Trevail, Headteacher grandparents and other family members, There are still opportunities to join our for the dedication shown in supporting team of Governors working to give the children with home learning. The last few children of Stonesfield (and some from months have been immensely challenging neighbouring villages) the best possible for everyone, but the situation has educational experience. We are looking for reinforced the importance of a successful a range of skills and experience, including partnership between school and home to financial, so we are open to discuss any enable our children to blossom. possible offers. We know the huge impact 2020 had on our If you are interested, or would like an pupils – emotionally, socially, and informal chat, please email academically, and staff were determined to [email protected] with ensure children received a great education your name and contact details and we will through the most recent lockdown. Now get right back to you. school is fully open again, staff are working relentlessly to support pupils pastorally Sue Corrigan and Harry Holland, Co-Chairs and getting everyone back on track on their journey to academic success. The future

April 2021 Stonesfield Slate 15 really pricked up his ears as, being an ex- Oxfordshire Art Weeks, Charlbury resident, he had often sought May 2021 them out but had never seen one in the Studios in our area are open from 1–9 May area, and neither had a researcher from the and, while some artists are displaying only Amphibian & Reptile Conservation Group. virtually, it will be possible to visit some studios in a Covid-19 secure environment. The guide this year is a virtual one and can be found at www.artweeks.org. There will be two sites in Stonesfield: Site 31 – Grey Cat Studios on Woodlands Rise, will be open on 1,2, 8 and 9 May from 11am – 5pm with the carport gallery (outside and very popular at Christmas Their view is that adders were ‘extinct’ time) and with the opportunity to enter the around here. Readers may be interested to studio itself one at a time or in family know that in the late 1960s residents were bubbles. This year exhibitors are Rachael paid the sum of one shilling for each adder Sherlaw-Johnson (painting), Jenny Lines removed from the Baggs Bottom area so (printmaking), Kerry Burniston (crafts), that the removal of slate waste to be used Rebecca Sherlaw-Johnson (painting and as hardcore on the new Southern Oxford crafts) and some work by Ann Lowe by-pass could be carried out safely. (textiles). Imagine the fuss today! Site 30 – Claire Fyfe-Jackson (designer Do you know different? If so, please jewellery) at Sarts Cottage, The Ridings, is contact me regarding any sightings within, open from 11am – 6pm all week. say, the last five years and I will pass them Please wear masks and observe social on with a view to further investigation, distancing in line with prevailing most probably in the Make the Adder guidelines. Count Survey 2021. Please leave a message if there is no reply and I will return your Rebecca Sherlaw-Johnson call. Thank you in advance. Counting adders Graeme Cairns (898541) Are they extinct here or do we still have adders (vipera berus) in Stonesfield? This is a plea for your past sightings. A friend of mine, a keen herpetologist, published a photo of some adders he saw in Dorset in February. I was most surprised that they were out so early and mentioned that there had been sightings in Stonesfield over the last few years, usually near the scout hut if I recall correctly. This

16 April 2021 Stonesﬁeld Slate 19 mammals spotted are stoats, field voles, Biodiversity survey at fallow deer, badgers and nine different bat Blenheim species. The site is also home to at least The Blenheim Estate has reported the 243 beetles, 600 species of moth, over 20 interim results of a biodiversity survey of species of butterfly, 35 arachnids and 161 its ancient woodland which has been different ants, wasps and bees. One of the undertaken since 2016. The survey, led by more unusual bee species is osmia botanist Aljos Farjon of Kew, reveals that spinulosa which nests in empty Roman the ancient High Park is home to more snail shells. Among reptiles and than 2,800 separate species. amphibians are common lizards, slow Mr Farjon believes that this Site of Special worms, grass snakes, great crested newts Scientific Interest (SSSI) may be one of the and toads. In addition to the above, the most important in England since the area also supports 275 types of plants and numbers of species discovered in the last flowers and 334 varieties of fungi. four years already puts it on a par with locations which have been studied far more intensively.

Helix pomatia: Roman Snail One of the reasons for High Park’s rich biodiversity is the fact that it has remained virtually untouched for centuries and the site is still mostly closed to visitors. However, the public will soon have the opportunity to take home part of the ancient forest when oak saplings, which have been grown from tiny acorns collected in the woods, become available. Further information is available from

Checking beetle traps in High Park, Blenheim Gemma Else [email protected]. A total of 275 ancient oaks with a girth of five metres or more were recorded, which is the highest number of oaks of this size and age on any site in Europe. More than 60 different birds including goshawks, peregrine falcons, spotted flycatchers and redstarts have been recorded. Among the

April 2021 Stonesfield Slate 17 Checking beetle traps in High Park, Blenheim Danvers never married and upon his death Local history: Cornbury Park the barony of Danvers and the earldom of 2 miles west of Stonesfield Danby became extinct. The earliest mention of Cornbury is in the Following the Restoration of the Stuart Domesday book, where it was recorded as monarchy in 1660, the Rangership and the being adjacent to Wychwood Forest. The park were given to Edward Hyde, first Earl park became included in Wychwood Forest of Clarendon and Viscount Cornbury in as royal property, and a Keeper, normally a 1661. He immediately embarked on a royal favourite, was appointed. He was programme of alterations, including responsible for the provision of royal additions to the house, the design of the hunting facilities and the supply of venison chapel, and extensive landscaping, to the royal kitchen. including planting nearly 2000 trees in a A house in Cornbury Park is mentioned in single year. the Close Rolls of 1337, when the In 1663 the large stable facing Charlbury Exchequer was ordered to pay for: ‘a stone was built. John Evelyn visited Cornbury in wall about Cornbury Park, a post towards 1664 (the same year that his Sylva or a the King's forest there, a house called Discourse of Forest Trees was published) 'Logge' of stone and timber in that park, with Hugh May, who had designed the and a dike of wood forty feet broad by the stables and was, in 1666, to build the east, circuit of the park, and two deer leaps in or Clarendon, front. Evelyn advised the park.’ Clarendon on the planting of the park Almost every king and queen up to Charles during his 1664 visit. Edward Hyde also I visited Cornbury Lodge, and it is created one of the first ha-ha walls in connected with many major events of England, where a terrace wall kept out the English history. The Rangership was deer, but allowed an uninterrupted view granted to favoured courtiers, tenants across the park. including the Harcourts, Beauchamps and Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester. The status of royal property was maintained until 1642 when Charles I gave Cornbury Park to Henry Danvers ‘forever’. Danvers, the Earl of Danby, had occupied the property since 1615 and had built a new house there in the 1630s (the present south wing). Danby was greatly interested in gardening and in 1622 donated five acres of land to the University of Oxford to be laid out as a physic garden. Henry Danvers died at his house in Cornbury Park on 20 January 1644 and was buried in Dauntsey Church where there is a monument of white marble to his memory. Henry Cornbury Park entrance

18 April 2021 Stonesﬁeld Slate The 2nd Earl of Clarendon inherited Cornbury Park is currently the home Cornbury from his father in 1674 and of Robin Cayzer, 3rd Baron Rotherwick, a continued the interest in landscaping Conservative hereditary peer who runs it as developed by his father. He had a stone a business. The estate includes some 1,700 bridge built over the Evenlode to form a acres of the most ancient forest in Britain new approach to the house from the north today and is a protected environment for east side; prior to this the avenues suggest native wildlife, creating a unique habitat in that the main approach was from the north one of the few private forests in England. It west. However, by the end of the combines a variety of enterprises from seventeenth century, he had run into commercial offices for small and medium- serious financial problems and resorted to sized businesses in Oxfordshire, to farming part of the park. The deer were residential house rentals as well as a removed, a large number of the trees were limited number of public events. cut down, whole areas ploughed and sown The house and immediate ground are with clover, intended for arable crops, closed to the public but there are whilst other areas were grazed. In 1700, numerous public footpaths through the the park was sold to his brother, Laurence Park. Hyde, Earl of Rochester. Paul Bates The estate remained in the Hyde family's ownership until 1751, when it was bought by the third Duke of Marlborough and was Farmers’ Markets re-named Blandford Park. Although no A reminder that many of our local ‘artisan’ grand scale alterations to the park were makers offer quality food and produce at made during this period, some Victorian farmers’ markets. Currently the dates and additions were made to the house during times for our local markets are: the nineteenth century. Cornbury Park was Charlbury: sold by Viscount Churchill in 1896. 2nd Saturday in the month In 1901, it was bought by Vernon John 9.00am – 1.00pm Watney who was a brewer and politician. In 1901-6, John Belcher, an English Chipping Norton: architect, and president of the Royal 3rd Saturday in the month Institute of British Architects, removed the 8.30am – 1.30pm Victorian additions and altered the house Witney: further for Vernon Watney with the 4th Friday in the month construction of a stairway across the 8.30am – 1.30pm terrace wall into the park, elaborate extensions to the gardens, and new gate Woodstock: lodges and entrance gates. Cornbury Park 1st and 3rd Saturdays in the month remained in the Watney family until 1966. 8.30am – 1.00pm Belcher's work was mostly demolished c. 1972. Trisha Williams

April 2021 Stonesfield Slate 19 Clubs, societies & sport

Stonesfield Allotments Lawn Bowls Association Can’t wait to get out and about? Come and Woodstock Road allotments try your hand at Lawn Bowls. Contact: Louise John All are welcome to come along to [email protected] Woodstock Bowls Club at Cadogan Park, Woodstock, OX20 1UW. Open evenings are Churchfields allotments held on Tuesdays from 12 April at 6pm, There are currently three names on the weather permitting. Open afternoons are waiting list at Churchfields. held on Mondays and Fridays from 2pm. Contact: John Sampson All you need is a pair of soft-sole flat shoes [email protected] and bowls will be provided. For more information, please get in touch Stonesfield Sports & Social with me. Club Brian Clarke (891770) By the time you read this, we will be well on the way to re-opening the Club. As from 12 April, our opening times will be as Stonesfield Playing Field follows: Association: Tractor Fundraising update Monday–Thursday: 4pm – 9pm As many of you will already have seen, we Friday: 4pm – 11pm had a tremendous response to our Saturday: 12 noon – 11pm crowdfunding appeal with around 70 Sunday: 12 noon – 6pm individual donations from the local community. These, coupled with generous Drinks will be served from the kitchen donations from Empire Homes, the Tennis window as we are restricted to outside only Club and the Sports & Social Club helped but marquee cover will be provided. The us to achieve 50% of our overall target of prevailing Covid-19 restrictions are to be £10,000 which then triggered the £5,000 observed including the rule of six people or matched funding offer from Sovereign a maximum of two households. Masks Housing’s Thriving Communities Fund. So, must be worn and toilet facilities will be a massive thank you to everyone who accessible. supported the appeal. Brian Clarke (891770) Working with the Sports & Social Club, it was also possible to make an application to the Football Foundation for a substantial grant towards the cost of a new tractor.

20 April 2021 Stonesﬁeld Slate The Football Foundation is a partnership Almost as much fun is, in Timothy’s words, between the Premier League, the Football the ‘chaotic energy’ of Zoom participants as Association and the Government. It is the they gather at their computer, laptop or UK’s largest sports charity and exists to tablet. Some seasoned pros who take it all improve the experience of playing football in their stride, some of us amazed it all for everyone by championing fair access to works! But a great way to keep in touch. quality facilities. Again, as many people This month we will hold our annual plant may have heard, this grant application has sale, using Sybil’s front garden at Four also been successful which is fantastic Acres in Pond Hill. By then Covid-19 news. restrictions will have lifted enough for the Separately from the above, Stonesfield Committee to feel confident in going ahead Community Trust and Stonesfield Strikers with this. have pledged generous support towards The proposed calendar for the rest of 2021 the project and we have also received a looks like this: grant from Cllr Ian Hudspeth’s Priority Fund. April 24 Saturday 8.30 – 11.00 On the back of all this, an order for a Plant Sale – Four Acres, Pond Hill brand-new tractor has now been placed May 10 Monday 19.30 and it should be with us around the end of Pots – Harriet Rycroft – Zoom talk April. June 21 Monday evening Andrew Tacon Village walk & social evening Stonesﬁeld Gardening Club July 12 Monday 19.30 Our March meeting was a Zoom talk by Bridewell Organic Garden – Ruth Madder Timothy Walker, who gave us a run- September 9 Thursday evening through of his career in horticulture and Visit to Bridewell Organic Garden the plants that have meant most to him. It was an entertaining evening, with October 4 Monday 19.30 wonderful photographs of tempting Propagation – Rob Jacobs looking plants and interesting planting November 8 Monday 19.30 schemes. The Wychwood project – Neil Clennell December 13 Monday 19.30 Christmas Social & Quiz Restrictions permitting, from July evening meetings will be held at St James’ Centre as before.

Diane Bates, Secretary [email protected]

Timothy Walker: A tale of two wheelbarrows www.stonesﬁeldgardening.info

April 2021 Stonesfield Slate 21 infectious personality, it was impossible Stonesﬁeld Tennis Club not to notice the very positive effect he had As many of you will doubtless be aware, on children and adults alike. ALL of our following a major refurbishment of the teams benefitted from Mickey’s presence courts a few years ago, we now have two and he will be a huge loss to all of us. dedicated courts with a superb all-weather artificial grass surface. The courts are open On behalf of Stonesfield Football Club I’d all year round and can be used in all like to take this opportunity to express our conditions except when there is a heavy heartfelt condolences to his wife, Suzanne, frost. Court bookings are made through and his son, Zach, as well as his family and our online booking system. friends. A thoroughly decent man who was loved by everyone associated with football Our membership year runs from 1 April to in Stonesfield, we will miss him hugely. 31 March and membership fees are now due for the 2021/22 season. Membership At times like this it seems trivial to write fees, which also include membership of the about the resumption of football matches Stonesfield Sports & Social Club, are as but, having had the privilege of knowing follows: Mickey Lewis, I’m sure he’d want it no other way. Juniors (under 18 years): £10 Adults: £35 Given that the current lockdown has decimated the grassroots football calendar, Families: £65 it’ll come as no surprise to learn that our Last year’s members should already have leagues have been declared ‘null and void’ received an invitation to renew their for the second season running. The W&D membership from the Clubspark system. FA have decided to continue with the cup However, if you have not received such an competitions and run them through April invitation, or if you are seeking to join for and early May as mini-leagues. Hence, The the first time, please email our new Firsts will play in The Senior Cup, and The membership secretary, Hugh Galliers, at Reserves in The Supplementary Cup, with [email protected] and he will help to games starting on Sat 3 April. At least our get you set up. teams will be guaranteed a minimum of Here’s hoping for a lockdown-free season! seven (Firsts) and five (Reserves) games between now and the end of the season. Andrew Tacon Let’s hope they give a good account of themselves. Stonesﬁeld Football Club Tom Flanigan (891979) The football club were deeply shocked and saddened to hear of the untimely passing of Mickey Lewis recently, following a short illness. Mickey wasn’t officially connected with the men’s teams but all of the players who have come through from the Stonesfield Strikers were coached by Mickey at some point and, given Mickey’s

22 April 2021 Stonesﬁeld Slate These meetings raise our awareness of the Climate Emergency Group seriousness of the situation and the impact During the last few months, we have had of our actions. If you would like to go on three Zoom meetings at which we have the mailing list so that you hear about the learnt about ways in which we can reduce next meeting, please drop me a line. Every our carbon footprint and help to protect little helps. the planet. Individual actions may not seem to add up to much, but they are Caroline Friend nonetheless valid contributions to the [email protected] global effort. They go some way to alleviating the sense of helplessness caused by the terrifying statistics. Our aim is simply to share information and suggestions that can help us all make a difference. We had an excellent talk on electric cars from two expert village residents: we learnt about their pros and cons, costs and feasibility. Then there was a presentation from Charlbury-based Cosy Homes on how to make your central heating more efficient and carbon-neutral. In March, a member of Greenpeace gave us a very thought- provoking talk on the effect of food production on the planet. The practices of the giant meat producers in Brazil and the supertrawlers that raid the oceans were shocking, and the message to buy from small local producers (unless that involves Great Tit: Martin Gascoigne-Pees a lengthy car journey!) was clear.

April 2021 Stonesfield Slate 23 Church news

Church of England Worship at the sign for Stonesfield as I have driven St James the Great, into their village. Stonesﬁeld The first time I ventured into Stonesfield (Benefice of Stonesfield with itself was one beautiful afternoon nearly Combe Longa) twenty years ago, having been invited by www.stonesfieldparishchurch.org friends in The Ridings to come for tea. It For any enquiries or help, including was not easy to find but well worth it when pastoral support, arrangements for we arrived at an idyllic scene of hazy funerals etc, please contact either a summer stillness where nature seems to churchwarden or the Area Dean: hold its breath under the baking sun. Tea and cake, and lasting friendship helped Churchwardens: Lindsey Sellar and Rachel confirm that Stonesfield is a special place. Severn Some years later, another friend moved [email protected] their sculpture studio to the saw mills Area Dean: The Revd Jeremy Auld, Rector tucked behind Combe Halt station. I met of Woodstock and Bladon (810749) Martin Jennings when our daughters www.woodstockandbladon.com became best friends at primary school in Oxford. They were both members of the Parish letter: Coming to Stonesfield illustrious Summertown Stars U12/13/14 and Combe girls’ football team, which scored high on Rachel and I are delighted to be coming to enthusiasm but never got many actual live in Stonesfield in April, and I am very goals, and I learnt a lot about the much looking forward to taking up the role geography of Oxfordshire by driving to of Rector for both parishes in the Benefice matches at the weekends. I briefly achieved on 1 May. I have been ordained for over a life goal of becoming a ‘football dad’, thirty years and am ready for a new stage through our younger daughter’s in my ministry, and we are both ready to determination not to give up. Martin enjoy the life of the villages and the Jennings made a number of his nationally- beautiful Oxfordshire countryside. acclaimed sculptures there - John Betjeman, Philip Larkin, Charles Dickens It feels like this is a move for which I have and Mary Seacole, who stands opposite long been preparing. My father and Parliament. I loved watching him work stepmother moved to Wootton twenty-five there and our daughters loved spraying the years ago and every few weeks, whether mountainous clay figures with water to travelling from London as a Curate, from keep them workable. Sadly, Martin is no Ross-on-Wye as a Team Vicar, from longer there but I have happy memories of Oxford as a College Chaplain, or most his workshop. recently from Westminster, I have passed

24 April 2021 Stonesﬁeld Slate When I came to visit the parishes in struggled to learn how to livestream November, I remembered another visit services from my study. This year I hope too; this time, long ago, to the Reading for a moving Holy Week and joyful Room in Combe on the invitation of the celebration of the resurrection at Easter, as Women’s Institute - I think to talk about Rachel and I prepare to move and I get the work of a College Chaplain. I arrived in ready to take up the role of Rector. I wish the dark, but the impression of a very you all a very happy Easter, and look friendly welcome stays with me. forward to meeting many of you in the coming weeks. Having read both The Stonesfield Slate and the Combe Courier over the last few Revd Ralph Williamson months, I am delighted to see how much activity there is in the villages, despite the April Services effects of Covid-19 and lockdown. Arts, Maundy Thursday: 1 April commerce, learning, sport, conservation, 7.30pm Stonesfield Holy Communion recreation and faith are interwoven in the life of a strong community, and there Good Friday: 2 April seems to be in both villages a precious 2pm Combe Good Friday balance of these things, on a scale which is Meditation big enough to be viable yet small enough to be personal, relational and human. Easter Eve: Saturday 3 April 7.30pm Stonesfield Easter Ceremonies Churches across the country have struggled to cope with being closed for worship and Easter Day: Sunday 4 April with the challenges of opening safely. I 9.30am Combe Parish Communion know this has been extremely difficult for 11am Stonesfield Parish Communion your churches too, especially without a Rector. I think you have all done so well to Second Sunday of Easter: 11 April keep the churches very much alive in these 9.30am Combe All Age Worship months, and I know that many people have 11am Stonesfield All Age Worship risen to the challenges and shown initiative, leadership as well as faith, and a Third Sunday of Easter: 18 April spirit of generous service. Once we are all 9.30am Combe Parish Communion vaccinated and feeling confident to mix 11am Stonesfield Parish Communion freely again, I hope that both Combe and Stonesfield churches will be places where a Fourth Sunday of Easter: 25 April large proportion of the community come 9.30am Combe Parish Communion once again to worship God who gives so 11am Stonesfield Parish Communion bountifully and to celebrate the life we share. The weeks before I leave St Peter’s Eaton Square will be busy. Last year the virus shutdown prevented us from celebrating Holy Week and Easter at all, and I

April 2021 Stonesfield Slate 25 commemorates the Israelites’ escape from Stonesﬁeld Methodist Church Egypt and their freedom to find their home Services for April: (Israel). Our Christian holy feast of Easter 4 April 11am Mr David Sarbutts too is both an act of commemoration: (Easter Sunday) Christ dying on the Cross; and a 11 April No service celebration of our re-birth, renewal and freedom generated by Christ rising from 18 April 11am Mr Keith Crawford the dead. 25 April No service And the angel answered and said unto the The Church Minister, the Revd Rose women, Fear not. ye: for I know that ye Westwood, Superintendent of the West seek Jesus, which was crucified. ... know Oxfordshire Circuit, has moved to that you seek Jesus, who has been Chipping Norton. The new contact crucified. He is not here, for he has risen, telephone number is 01608 644556. just like he said. (Matthew 28:5–6). Services have restarted and, although they Let’s continue to enjoy our Easter eggs and are not yet held every Sunday, it is hoped chocolate bunnies, hot cross buns, giving that it won’t be too long before they are. flowers and eating lamb on Easter Sunday; It’s a great joy to worship in our Church all have profound religious roots, one way once more. or another, but don’t let’s forget that Zoom services continue on the Sundays deeper meaning of redemption and our when there is no service at Church. Please own spiritual renewal. get in touch if you would like details to join Services during Holy Week these services. Palm Sunday: 9.15am Parish Mass Kathleen Albért (891733) Holy Thursday: 7pm Mass of the Lord’s Supper Roman Catholic Worship Good Friday: 3pm Passion of the Lord; What is Easter? 7pm Stations of the Cross Many cultures and religions celebrate the Holy Saturday: 7pm Easter Vigil coming of spring: the days lengthening and becoming warmer, trees showing their Easter Sunday: 9.15am Parish Mass buds, flowers appearing and young The times of all services are on St. Teresa’s animals are born. In England we have a website: www.stteresaschurch- pre-Christian tradition of celebrating charlbury.com/ spring, renewal and fertility. Bede tells us in his ‘De temporum ratione’ (‘The Confession by arrangement with Fr. Reckoning of Time’): ‘Eostre was a goddess Clive as below of spring or renewal and that's why her Fr Tony Joyce can be contacted feast is attached to the vernal equinox,’ at: [email protected] or thus giving us the word ‘Easter’. The 01608 642703. Jewish festival of Passover, which is the context for the ‘Last Supper’ as the prelude for the Crucifixion, celebrates and

26 April 2021 Stonesﬁeld Slate For Parish updates, any further St Teresa’s, Charbury information and further support:

www.stteresaschurchcharlbury.com/ or contact Fr. Clive Dytor at@ chair. stteresaschurchcharlbury@ gmail.com

Slate SEPPrayers 19.qxp_SLATE of spiritual MASTER communion v3.3 22/08/2019 08:04 Page 33 O my divine Jesus, how great is my desire to receive your sacred body! Oh, come now into my soul, at least, by a spiritual communion! O Jesus, my divine Saviour, save me. O my God, hiding myself with a humble confidence in your dear wounds, I give up my soul into your divine hands. Oh, receive it into the bosom of your mercy.A Amen. C E Car Repairs and Servicing Roman Catholic Community in Stonesﬁeld 01993 700041

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D S JONES Piano and Violin lessons Alan Claridge Engineering is a garage in Witney that has been repairing PROPERTY & GARDEN MAINTENANCE Theory tuition and accompanying cars for over 30 years. I now live in Stonesﬁeld and will collect your car All property maintenance undertaken from your house and deliver it back freeB ofeginner charge. to Grade I service 8 and repair all For all enquiries/ free quotations just call or email makes of car so please call me toFun, arrange enjoyable an and appointment. structured lessons 07496 149990 All ages welcome, including adults [email protected] Ruth Sellar 01993 898757

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Piano Lessons . Experienced Dog-walking service PAINT TECH teacher. Any age or ability. Mobile automotive re-ﬁnishing Do you work long hours and feel that your Classical or Jazz grades or find dog is not getting the attention and exercise simplePainted ways bumpers,to explore alloy & play wheels, the that it needs? I run a dog-walking service paintless dent removal, screen repairs, for Stonesfield and surrounding areas. I tunes interioryou love. trim Currently and seat teachingrepairs have public liability insurance for peace of on Zoom. Full body shop facilities mind. Please feel free to call for a quote. Katrina 01993 891131 / 07824357690 Contact:David Claire Lee 07831 Tel: 193999 01993 7am–6pm 898027 [email protected] Mobile: 07533Established 806087 1991

April 2021 Stonesfield Slate 27 RuraScape Landscaping & gardens - Patios - Turﬁng - Fencing - Lawns & grassland - Hedge management - Garden/scrubland clearance Tel 01993 898733 or 07811 598958 Email [email protected]

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28 April 2021 Stonesﬁeld Slate Slate SEP 19.qxp_SLATE MASTER v3.3 22/08/2019 08:04 Page 25

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Woodstock Solicitors - 1st Floor - 32 New Road - Woodstock - OX20 1PB

April 2021 Stonesfield Slate 29 25 Stonesﬁeld Slate September 2019 Slate SEP 19.qxp_SLATE MASTER v3.3 22/08/2019 08:04 Page 23 Slate SEP 19.qxp_SLATE MASTER v3.3 22/08/2019 08:04 Page 21

! GOURMETood the perfect bistro - style - catering ! !is SeptemberCotswold visit... hideaway ! Good Gourmet ! Salon Privé Classic • Extra lights, sockets !!!!Upcoming!"#$%#&'()*+,--.'/0).' events at our pop-up restaurant Located in the beautiful& Supercar village of Ramsden '''123&345'3&'1607(/879':&*';<=>?9' • Replacement8th September fuseboxes ﬁtted 6 Sept 3-course Bistro – £30 Ideal• holidayFull or homepart forrewire, when extensionsfamily or friends & loft conversions11 Sept Mid-Week Simple Supper – £20 • Landlord & homebuyers inspections 27 Sept 3-course Bistro North Africa – £30 come visitingMaurizio Cattelan 23 Oct Mid -Week Simple Supper – £20 • Friendly,at Blenheim local and Palace reliable 2 Nov 3-coursePET Bistro – £30 Sleeps 4 with parking 12th• Quick September response, - 27th free quotesOctober & fully insured SITTING Cot and highchair available BYO www.andrewboothelectrician.co.ukDo you go on holiday and worry about your pets? For more detailsSsangYong and how to book: I amSee a ourpet loverwebsite and calendar I am offering for menus to look and after 07305Blenheim 816115 PalaceTEL Horse Trials 01993 883880your animalsdetails of(feeding, our new playing, Midweek etc.) suppers after school/ [email protected] - 22nd September weekends/school holidays. I also ride ponies, waterVisit plantswww.goodgourmet.co.uk and can supply a reference to see from menus my www.gablecottagecotswolds.co.ukMOB 07795 957988 and makecat sitting a booking job. Rates or call negotiable. 01993 898614 blenheimpalace.com Please call 01993 898620 and ask for Tara Taylor.

Hedges Decorating and Property Maintenance Sewing & Altera!ons • Extra lights, sockets‘No job too small’ . . . to make that garment fit you! • Replacement fuseboxesDaniel Hedges fitted • Full or partPainting rewire, extensions and Decorating Fi!ngs, hem levels, and a varied range of • Landlord & homebuyers inspections Garden and Property Maintenance altera"on and sewing work carried out. • Friendly, local and reliable Dresses, Skirts, Tops, Shirts, Jackets, • QuickPlumbing, response,Fencing freeHeating, andquotes Repairs &Bathroom fully insured Trousers, Curtains, Cushions and beyond! www.andrewboothelectrician.co.ukRefurbishments/Installations,Demolition and Removal Tiling THAMES VALLEY Small Carpentry Work Louise Evere"Brown 01993 252643 or 07515 284286 Mobile:TEL 07957 01993 437347 883880 TREElou.smiley1@b CARE"nternet.com LTD [email protected] Email: [email protected] 01993 813873 MOB 07795 957988 A Stonesfield based company providing a professional and reliable service in all aspects of tree surgery FoSL: Friends of Stones!ield Library and hedge management Virtual Office Guardian Business Support Services FREE no obligation quote Open to anyone who wants to help keep our village library open. All office, organisational and Tel: 01993 891381 We have been providing voluntary cover for half of the existing Jacqupaperwork functions untertaken Mob: 07971018279 library hours (about 6 hours a week) since the library service jacquel was cut back.Email: [email protected] [email protected] www.tvtreecare.co.uk For further details, or to join us, please contact Tony Scott on 01993 891380, [email protected] 2321 Stonesfield Slate September 20192019 INDO DESIGN

BLINDS AND CURTAINS

01993 870606

Book now for a virtual showroom appointment!

30 April 2021 Stonesﬁeld Slate M J Fyson BA BA VetMB MRCVS Wroslyn Road Freeland Nr. Witney Oxon OX29 8AQ E-Mail:[email protected]

Slate SEP 19.qxp_SLATE MASTER v3.3 22/08/2019 08:04 Page 31 We are a traditional independent small animal

Veterinary Clinic

Opening hours: Mon-Fri 08:00-18:30 and Sat 09:00-12:00 Consultations by appointment only: -

Mon-Thurs 09.00-10.30 and 16.30-18.00

Fri-Sat 09:00-10:30 Friendly personal service for dogs, cats and small furries Stockists of Symply and Canagan pet foods

New clients always welcome &20387(5Follow us on Facebook: Coach House Veterinary Clinic +(/3

01993 880551 Broadbandwww.coachhousevetsclinic.co.uk and Wireless. Installation and Training. Problem solving. Jargon-free advice. Upgrades. Digital Photos. Virus Protection and Removal. Stan Johnston Painter and Decorator Call or email me, Len Kehoe phone: 01993 810125 With over 35 years experience in the mobile: 07944 877437 - Computer Science graduate trade. with over 30 years experience email: [email protected] web: [email protected] 07968 865251 or 01993 898730

Roberts Garden Machinery Ltd

!"#$%&'()*")$ ·Professional servicing and repairs of most makes of garden machinery Member of the · Chartered Institute of Building New & second-hand machinery supplied ! ·Collection & delivery by arrangement General property 18 years’ experience with LAWNMOWER SALES & SERVICE N j f Chima... maintenance and Open 8–5 Monday–Friday, 8–12 Saturday high qualityWha ill DIY dice ? ! Unit H5, New Yatt Business Centre, New Yatt, OX29 6TJ Make S Chalb OX7 3PL 01608 811805 .cldfame.c.k Tel: 01993 881320 or email: robert.milloini@ btinternet.com Generalif@cldfame.c.k repairs All carpentry - Decorating Minor plumbing Andrew A. Adams FCCA Prompt, reliable andApril 2021 Stonesfield SlateChartered Certiﬁed Accountant 31 recommended service Quality personal service for your No job too small Accounting, Taxation and Business needs

Competitive fees agreed in advance Tel: 07876-275300 Free initial meeting [email protected] Telephone: 07790 854574 01993 891280 “A job done well” Email: [email protected]

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D. J. R. MILES BATHROOM, PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEERS LTD (Company number 4633496) SCSC Winner of the: Worcester Bosch environment 2007 installer of the year for sustainable heating and hot waterSalon systems Copenhagen • WAI Worcester Bosch accredited installer Salon Copenhagen • Gas safe register engineer: registration:3 Pendle 37123 Court, Pond Hill, Stonesfield, Oxon, OX29 8PZ • Oftec oil fired engineer: registration: C4970/101/105e/600a3 Pendle Court, PondTel. Hill, 01993 Stonesfield, 891101 Oxon, OX29 8PZ • Unvented hot water registered engineer Telephone 01993 891101 • Greenskies solar panel registeredUnisex engineer hairdressing salon for ladies, gentlemen and children. • Ground Source heat pump engineer • Air to water source heat pumpUnisex engineer hairdressing salon for ladies, gentlemen and children. • Green Source air to air engineer • Underfloor heating engineerAll aspects of hairdressing undertaken by our professionally • 6084 city and guilds energy efficient domestic heating registered engineer • Part P electrical engineer trained stylists, Sally and Donna. • All types of central heating services, new energy efficient installations and design service • All types of bathroom installations andWe design also service offer earpiercing and our nail bar is open for OPI manicures, pedicures and Gelish Polish. Address: Polperro, The Ridings, Stonesfield, Witney, Oxon OX29 8EA Telephone: 01993 891904/01993Slate 891314SEP 19.qxp_SLATE Mobile:Find 07860 MASTER 142230us on v3.3 Facebook. 22/08/2019 Open08:04 Page Tuesday 34 to Saturday. www.plumbingandheating4oxfordshire.co.uk E-mail [email protected] www.worcester-bosch.co.uk

Challenge Salon Copenhagen PELLMANS is WITNEYnowthe offering Winter beautyWELDING Greys! treatments A. L. SOLE & SON Solicitors mike Architectural,FuneralEyebrowFriendly Directors Construction,Shaping Art AgriculturalEyelashand Drawing and Eyebrowand Classes Equestrian Tinting in: • Business, Agricultural and Employment chambers BidstonFacial Close, Threading Over Norton, Bespoke,Law handmade curtains, Steel Fabricating Services Stonesfield,ChippingFacial Norton, St Waxing James’ ox7 Centre, 5pp blindsContracts, and Legal soft Compliance furnishings & Disputes Mondays, from 6 Jan, 1.30 to 4 pm We can alsoLVL provide Lash aLift full welding • Property maintenance ManicuresAservice Finstock,professionally inand Steel, Pedicures Village Stainless qualified Hall, using Steel, OPI BuyingFriendly & Selling and Homes, professional Commercial Aluminium and Titanium, including Tuesdays,FuneralPolish from Director 7or Jan, Shellac providing2 to 4.30 pm & Agricultural service repairsQuick to Dip Steel, Manicures Aluminium aCombe, dignifiedand ReadingIron and castings personal Room , • Wills, Probate and Trusts Make Up Application Free, no obligation serviceFridays, atfrom any 10 hour. Jan, Tax Planning, Las!ng Powers of A"orney For aComing free no obligation Soon . . quote,. & Elderly consultationsClient Advice 10contact am to Peter12.30 on: pm small area tiling Private MassagesChapels of Rest Tel: 01993 891198 FacialsCost for using 6 weeks Dermalogica is £95 Tel. 07880 880314 in a peacefulMobile: 07751 garden 678412 setting. 01865 884400 Body Waxing www.pellmans.co.uk 0 7 9 7 3 6 2 4 7 9 7 Email: [email protected] SiennaTo find X Spray out more, Tanning [email protected] Abbey Street, Eynsham, Oxford OX29 4TB Unit A,Tel. Farley 01608 Lane, 644112 Stonesfield, please contact Gabriele Oxfordshire, OX29 8HB Pleaseat gabrielekern31@gmail call 07810 301087 to combook Homewww.kingfishersoftfurnishings.co.uk visits and evening appointments available

November32 2019 Stonesfield Slate April 2021 22Stonesfield Slate September 2019 Stonesfield Slate 30

Fixed priced repairs to Domestic Call Andrew include electrical safety test Appliance Repairs 01993 Electric cooker WASHING MACHINES connections both REFRIGERATION freestanding 891339 and built-in ELECTRIC COOKERS

TUMBLE DRYERS BS7671 accredited or DISHWASHERS Mobile Full public liability cover

Professional Same day, evening & 07989 945971 Descaler Available weekend appointments normally available

September 2019 Stonesﬁeld Slate 34

TUMBLE DRYERS BS7671 accredited or DISHWASHERS Mobile Full public liability cover

Professional Same day, evening & 07989 945971 Descaler Available weekend appointments normally available

Andrew A. Adams FCCA Chartered Certiﬁed Accountant

Quality personal service for your Accounting, Taxation and Business needs Competitive fees agreed in advance Free initial meeting Telephone: 07790 854574 01993 891280 Email: [email protected]

Crumbling plaster? Fear not 35 years experience Patching, re-skim, renovations No job too small

Call Pat Hunt for free quotation

01993 891412 or 07583 023843 [email protected]

April 2021 Stonesfield Slate 33 Slate SEP 19.qxp_SLATE MASTER v3.3 22/08/2019 08:04 Page 31

&20387(5 +(/3 Broadband and Wireless. Installation and Training. Problem solving. Jargon-free advice. Upgrades. Digital Photos. Virus Protection and Removal.

Call or email me, Len Kehoe phone: 01993 810125

- Computer Science graduate mobile: 07944 877437 with over 30 years experience email: [email protected] web: www.thepcbuddy.co.uk

Roberts Garden Machinery Ltd WOODSTOCK TAXI SERVICE !"#$%&'()*")$ ·Professional servicing and repairs of 07766 74301 most makes of garden machinery Member of the · Chartered Institute of Building New & second-hand machinery supplied ! ·Collection & delivery by arrangement General property 18 years’ experience with LAWNMOWER SALES & SERVICE maintenance and Open 8–5 Monday–Friday, 8–12 Saturday high quality DIY Unit H5, New Yatt Business Centre, New Yatt, OX29 6TJ ! General repairs Tel: 01993 881320 or email: robert.milloini@ btinternet.com • Ai Sai • Da i • HiaAll carpentry Sch - Decorating• Weddig P • Theae ReaaMinor plumbing• Shig i Our friendl team includes female drivers Andrew A. Adams FCCA www.townhousewoodstock.co.ukPrompt, reliable and Chartered Certiﬁed Accountant recommended service Quality personal service for your No job too small Accounting, Taxation and Business needs

Competitive fees agreed in advance Tel: 07876-275300 Free initial meeting [email protected] Telephone: 07790 854574 01993 891280 “A job done well” Email: [email protected]

34 April 2021 31Stonesﬁeld Slate Stonesﬁeld Slate September 2019 SlateSlate SEP SEP 19.qxp_SLATE 19.qxp_SLATE MASTER MASTER v3.3v3.3 22/08/201922/08/2019 08:0408:04 PagePage 3333

AA CC EE CarCar RepairsRepairs and Servicing 0199301993 700041

SERVICING,SERVICING, BRAKES,BRAKES, CLUTCHES,CLUTCHES, AIRAIR CONDITIONINGCONDITIONING, EXHAUSTS, DIAGNOSTICS,DIAGNOSTICS, MOT’SMOT’S PREPAREDPREPARED AND ARRANGED

AlanAlan ClaridgeClaridge EngineeringEngineering isis aa garagegarage inin WitneyWitney that has been repairing carscars forfor overover 3030 years.years. II nownow livelive inin StonesﬁeldStonesﬁeld and will collect your car fromfrom youryour househouse andand deliverdeliver itit backback freefree ofof charge.charge. II serviceservice and repair all makesmakes ofof carcar soso pleaseplease callcall meme toto arrangearrange an appointment.

Dog-walking service Tracey KeelingPAINT TECH Dog-walking service PAINT TECH Do you work long hours and feel that your Mobile automotive re-finishing Do you work long hours and feel that your PersonalMobile automotive Trainer re-finishing dog is not getting the attention and exercise dog is not getting the attention and exercise Painted bumpers, alloy wheels, that it needs? I run a dog-walking service The OlderPainted Adult bumpers, Training alloy Specialist wheels, that it needs?mike I run a dog-walking service paintless dent removal, screen repairs, for Stonesfield and surrounding areas. I paintless dent removal, screen repairs, for Stonesfield and surrounding areas. I interior trim and seat repairs have chamberspublic liability insurance for peace of Any ageinterior is the trim rig andht age seat trepairso exercise. have public liability insurance for peace of Full body shop facilities mind. Please feel free to call for a quote. (FaceFull bodyto face shop or facilities on-line ) mind.painting Please feel &free decorating to call for a quote. Katrina 01993 891131 / 07824357690 David Lee 07831 193999 7am–6pm Katrinainterior 01993 891131 & exterior / 07824357690 07977David 228756 Lee 07831 193999 7am–6pm [email protected] Established 1991 [email protected] www.hardenhealthandfitness.co.ukEstablished 1991 property maintenance RuraScape RuraScape Landscaping & gardens Landscapingfriendly service& gardens, - Patios fully insured - TurfingPatios your DIY- Turfingdone for you! - Fencing - Lawns- Fencing & grassland 0 7-- LawnsHedge9 7 3 &management 6grassland 2 4 7 9 7 - Garden/scrubland- Hedge management clearance email:mike@michael- Garden/scrubland- chambers clearance. co. uk Tel 01993www. michael898733- chambers or 07811. co 598958. uk Tel Email01993 [email protected] 898733 or 07811 598958 Email [email protected]

April 2021 33 Stonesf ie ld Slate Stonesﬁeld Slate September 201935 33 Stonesﬁeld Slate September 2019 Slate SEP 19.qxp_SLATE MASTER v3.3 22/08/2019 08:04 Page 28 Slate SEP 19.qxp_SLATE MASTER v3.3 22/08/2019 08:04 Page 32

Painting, Decorating &

YOUR LOCAL Tiling With Care STOCKISTS & INSTALLERS OF Lighting Your Way Into The Future * GARAGE DOORS Slate SEP Local19.qxp_SLATE & Reliable MASTER Tradesman v3.3 22/08/2019 08:04 Page 22 STEPHEN& J. WILEY House & Home Services REMOTE OPERATORS ELECTRICIAN * GARAGE DOOR REPAIRS & SPARES INTERIOR DECORATING LOCAL RESIDENTS· –10% DISCOUNT· ON Additions Alterations Rewiring TILING – ALL TYPES STOCKED DOORS Surveys · Security Lighting P. Fletcher CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE HOME MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS 01993Cookers 778836 · / 01865Showers 246444 PERIOD PROPERTY EXPERIENCE Painting, Decorating FULLY INSURED MANY WORKINGTelephone DOORS Points & OPERATORS * & Wallpapering ON DISPLAY AT: NOSHOWROOM: JOB TOO SMALL Richard Buck Forty years’ + experience Bespoke, handmade curtains, UNIT 24, AVENUE ONE, STATION LANE, Elbie House East End Tel (01993)WITNEY, OXON, 882778/881409 OX28 4XZ blinds and soft furnishings Tel. 01993 891207 !!!"#$%$#&'((%)"(%# Tel: 01993 880166 or mobile 07884 430300 90 Main Road, Long Hanborough, Witney, OX29 8JY Mob: 07791 046583 Friendly and professional [email protected] service !"#$%&'(%%)*+,''' ' Free, no obligation BLINDS AND CURTAINS !"#$%&'()*#'+&"# consultations -%'.)/%"'0/1)2' "#*+*+,'34%$*#)*52' ! ! MadeJerrams to Measure Brothers Funeral) Directors Tel. 07880 880314 !"#$%&'()*+(#%,"(-".#/-%"01(2/0*&'"01( 33 High Street 3%//"0(.&4(#*&'"05( [email protected] ) ♦ Woodstock OX20 1TE WIDE RANGE OF FABRICS ,-.--)//0-12) www.kingfishersoftfurnishings.co.uk (01993) 8114916667-#"/%+-%#)2-#+/8*2+%557$971:' PHONE ♦ TRACKS AND POLES 01993 870606 • Private Chapel of Rest ♦ FREE FITTING • 24-hour personal family service FOR A FREE CONSULTATION • Pre-paid funeral plans

As the third generation of a funeral-directing family, Nicholas and SC www.windowdesign.coBenjamin Tonks believe that at the time of bereavement, compassion and the families’ wishes are paramount. In partnership withSalon the Church Copenhagen and community we endeavour to give the bereaved as much care and COMPLETE SERVICE DIRECT TO YOU AT HOME support as possible.3 Pendle Court, Pond Hill, Stonesﬁeld, Oxon, OX29 8PZ. Telephone 01993 891101

Unisex hairdressing salon for ladies, gentlemen and children. September 2019 Stonesfield Slate 28 36 April 2021 Stonesfield Slate September 2019 Stonesfield Slate 32 All aspects of hairdressing undertaken by our professionally trained stylists, Sally, Cheryl and Donna. We also offer earpiercing and our nail bar is open for OPI manicures, pedicures and Gelish Polish. Find us on Facebook. Open Tuesday to Saturday.

September 2019 Stonesﬁeld Slate 22 Slate SEP 19.qxp_SLATE MASTER v3.3 22/08/2019 08:04 Page 33

A C E Car Repairs and Servicing Slate SEP 19.qxp_SLATE MASTER v3.3 22/08/2019 08:04 Page 30 01993 700041

SERVICING, BRAKES, CLUTCHES, AIR CONDITIONING, EXHAUSTS, D. J. R. MILES DIAGNOSTICS, MOT’S PREPARED AND ARRANGED BATHROOM, PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEERS LTD (Company number 4633496) Winner of the: Alan Claridge Engineering is a garage in Witney that has been repairing Worcester Bosch environment 2007 installer of the year forcars sustainable for over heating 30 and years. hot water I systemsnow live in Stonesfield and will collect your car • WAI Worcester Bosch accreditedfrom installer your house and deliver it back free of charge. I service and repair all • Gas safe register engineer: registration: 37123makes of car so please call me to arrange an appointment. • Oftec oil fired engineer: registration: C4970/101/105e/600a • Unvented hot water registered engineer • Greenskies solar panel registered engineer • Ground Source heat pump engineer • Air to water source heat pump engineer • Green Source air to air engineer • Underfloor heating engineer • 6084 city and guilds energy efficient domestic heatingDog-walking registered engineer service PAINT TECH • Part P electrical engineer • All types of central heating services, new energy efficientDo you installationswork long hoursand design and feelservice that your Mobile automotive re-finishing • All types of bathroom installationsdog andis not design getting service the attention and exercise Painted bumpers, alloy wheels, that it needs? I run a dog-walking service Address: Polperro, The Ridings, Stonesfield, Witney, Oxon OX29 8EA paintless dent removal, screen repairs, for Stonesfield and surrounding areas. I Telephone: 01993 891904/01993 891314 Mobile: 07860 142230 interior trim and seat repairs have public liability insurance for peace of Slate SEP 19.qxp_SLATE MASTER v3.3 22/08/2019 08:04 Page 25 www.plumbingandheating4oxfordshire.co.uk Full body shop facilities E-mail [email protected] www.worcester-bosch.co.ukmind. Please feel free to call for a quote. Katrina 01993 891131 / 07824357690 David Lee 07831 193999 7am–6pm

[email protected] Established 1991

RuraScape

Landscaping & gardens A. L. SOLE & SON mike Funeral- Patios Directors Suriya Express - Turfing chambers Bidston Close,- Fencing Over Norton, & Post Office - Lawns & grassland 1 Pendle Court, Pond Hill, Stonesfield Slate SEP 19.qxp_SLATEChipping- Hedge MASTERNorton, management v3.3 ox7 22/08/2019 5pp 08:04 Page 28 Tel/Fax 01993 898379 - Garden/scrubland clearance maintenance Tel 01993A professionally 898733 or 07811 qualified 598958 Bread & Pastries EmailFuneral [email protected] Director providing Fine range of Groceries Fruit & Vegetables a dignified and personal Beers, Wines & Spirits service at any hour. 33 Stonesfield Slate September 2019 New range of Organic Products smallDry areaCleaning tiling Private Chapels of Rest YOUR LOCAL in a peaceful garden setting. Opening hours: STOCKISTS & INSTALLERS OF 0Monday 7 9 7 to 3 Friday 6 2 7am–8pm 4 7 9 7 Saturday and Sunday 8am–8pm* Tel. 01608 644112 GARAGE DOORS Bank Holidays 8am–8pm* & REMOTE OPERATORS *P.O. closed on Sundays & on Bank Holidays GARAGE DOOR REPAIRS & SPARES LOCAL RESIDENTS –10% DISCOUNT ON September 2019 Stonesfield Slate April 2021 30 Stonesfield Slate 37 STOCKED DOORS P. Fletcher CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE Painting, Decorating 01993 778836 / 01865 246444 MANY WORKING DOORS & OPERATORS & Wallpapering ON DISPLAY AT: SHOWROOM: Forty years’ + experience UNIT 24, AVENUE ONE, STATION LANE, WITNEY, OXON, OX28 4XZ Tel. 01993 891207 !!!"#$%$#&'((%)"(%# or mobile 07884 430300 WILLS ~ PROBATE ~ POWERS OF ATTORNEY

INHERITANCE TAX PLANNING BLINDS AND CURTAINS

Tel. 01993 811 792 Made to Measure

Email [email protected] ♦ WIDE RANGE OF FABRICS

Woodstock Solicitors - 1st Floor - 32 New Road - Woodstock - OX20 1PB PHONE ♦ TRACKS AND POLES 01993 870606 ♦ 25 Stonesﬁeld Slate September 2019 FREE FITTING FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

www.windowdesign.co

COMPLETE SERVICE DIRECT TO YOU AT HOME

September 2019 Stonesﬁeld Slate 28 Slate SEP 19.qxp_SLATE MASTER v3.3 22/08/2019 08:04 Page 26

Hypnotherapy

For help with anxiety, stress, pain control, insomnia, phobias, unwanted habits, confidence and self-esteem, exam and interview nerves. Acupuncture for stress reduction, pain relief, arthritis, migraine, fatigue, hormone imbalance, and more. Contact: Linda Flanigan clinic or in your own home. Clinical Hypnotherapist GHR Registered & Member (Lic.) of National Council for Hypnotherapy consultation please contact me on 01993 898102 / 07791 278618 Tel: 07866 360359 Email: [email protected] or visit www.lfhypnotherapy.co.uk Slate SEP 19.qxp_SLATE MASTER v3.3 22/08/2019 08:04 Page 27

PROBLEM FEET?

Imagine Life! NAIL CUTTING • CORNS • CALLUS if you had your own…! PROBLEM NAILS • FOOT MASSAGE Hypnotherapy Gardener! Treatment in the comfort of your own home Decorator! For help with anxiety, stress, SHARON DAVIES MCFHP MAFHP Babysitter! (01993) 891132pain control, / (M) insomnia, 07941843353 phobias, unwanted habits, confidence and De-clutterer! Registered memberself-esteem, of the exam British and Association interview I can help you clear your clutter, of Footnerves. Health Professionals weed out your wardrobe and ﬁnd new homes for your unwanted items.! Dog Walker! "#$%&'()Contact: Linda Flanigan!%)#*+($,! Spring Cleaner! Clinical Hypnotherapist -#./'!0#))1!2!3(+%!45!6'!36.-7! GHR Registered & Member (Lic.) of National Moving House Help! Council089:!;!:;<<=!>?8@A!;BC!CAD8B89A@=!BE for Hypnotherapy !F;GHEBI! House & Pet Sitter…! JA/KA!LAAB!:A@<8BH!M>AG>!;BC!9:A8G!NE?! A tree surgery company with Tel:DEG!EKAG!9:8G9=!=A;G>O!0A!:;KA!AP9AB>8KA! 07866 360359 all rolled into one!! Email:AP89=!>=>9A?I!;BC!JA! [email protected] the integrity you can trust. QBEJ!;@@!;LEM9!6<<@A!$;N>!'##7! For one-off events or regular help www.lfhypnotherapy.co.uk Tel: 0845 458 2980 )4.R!*#*!#.S!TUVWX!VVTWTT!Y!TZZWV!Z[\U\[! please contact Lindsey ! hatsoffstudiosMobile: 07976 261850.com or call 0A!NE?A!9E!=EM!J89:!>;?A!C;=!>AGK8NA!8D!>8L@AO!! ! 0A!CEB/9!N:;GHA!DEG!9:A!N;@@]EM9!EG!8D!JA!N;B/9!D8P!89O! Email:01993 [email protected] 898620 07941 561471 www.townandcountrytrees.co.uk September 2019 Stonesﬁeld Slate 26 MICHAEL PRICE & SON MICHAELPLASTERING PRICE & SON PLASTERING 58 Ticknell Piece Road ForCharlbury, all your internal OX7 plastering 3TW tel 07710 170049 or 01608 811642 [email protected] 01608 811642 Mobile58 Ticknell 07710 Piece 170049 Road, Charlbury, Oxon, OX7 3TW

GEOFF BOOTH Landscaping · Paving · Walling Driveways · Fencing · work Building maintenance Free quotations Tel: 01993 891945 Mob: 07710 628248 Email: [email protected]

38 April 2021 Stonesﬁeld Slate 27 Stonesﬁeld Slate September 2019 Slate SEP 19.qxp_SLATE MASTER v3.3 22/08/2019 08:04 Page 23

! the perfect ! Cotswold hideaway ! !

Slate SEP!!!! 19.qxp_SLATE!"#$%#&'()*+,--.'/0).' MASTER v3.3 22/08/2019 08:04 Page 26 Located in the beautiful village of Ramsden '''123&345'3&'1607(/879':&*';<=>?9'

Ideal holiday home for when family or friends come visiting PET Sleeps 4 with parking SITTING Cot and highchair available

Do you go on holiday and worry about your pets? For more details and how to book: I am a pet lover and I am offering to look after 07305 816115 your animals (feeding, playing, etc.) after school/ Hypnotherapy [email protected] weekends/school holidays. I also ride ponies, water plants and can supply a reference from my For help with anxiety, stress, www.gablecottagecotswolds.co.uk cat sitting job. Rates negotiable. pain control, insomnia, phobias, Please call 01993 898620 and ask for Tara Taylor. unwanted habits, confidence and self-esteem, exam and interview nerves. Acupuncture for stress reduction, pain relief, arthritis, migraine, fatigue, hormone imbalance, and more. Contact: Linda Flanigan clinic or in your own home. Clinical Hypnotherapist GHR Registered & Member (Lic.) of National Council for Hypnotherapy consultation please contact me on 01993

Plumbing, Heating, Bathroom 898102 / 07791 278618 Refurbishments/Installations, Tiling Tel: 07866 360359 THAMES VALLEY Architectural,Email: [email protected] Construction, Agricultural 01993 252643 or 07515 284286 TREE CAREor visit LTD www.lfhypnotherapy.co.uk& Equestrian Steel Fabrication Services [email protected] We also provide a full welding service A Stonesfield based company in Steel, Stainless Steel. Aluminium & providing a professional and reliable Titanium, including repairs to Steel, service in all aspects of tree surgery Aluminium and Iron castings and hedge management UNIT 4D Virtual Office Guardian PROBLEM FEET? FREE no obligation quote ENSTONE BUSINESS PARK Business Support Services ENSTONEImagine, OXFORDSHIRE Life! NAIL CUTTING • CORNS • CALLUS if you OX7had 4NPyour own…! All office, organisational and PROBLEMTel: NAILS 01993 • FOOT 891381 MASSAGE Gardener ! Jacqupaperwork functions untertaken TEL: 01608 678267 TreatmentMob: in the 07971018279 comfort of your own home Decorator! MOB: 07751 678412 jacquel SHARON DAVIES MCFHP MAFHP Email: [email protected] [email protected] 19.qxp_SLATEBabysitter MASTER v3.3! 22/08/2019 08:04 Page 32 [email protected] (01993) 891132 / (M) 07941843353 www.tvtreecare.co.uk WWW.WITNEYWELDING.COMDe-clutterer! Registered member of the British Association of Foot Health Professionals I can help you clear your clutter, weed out your wardrobe and find 23 Stonesfield Slate September 2019 new homes for your unwanted items.! Dog Walker !

"#$%&'()!%)#*+($,! Spring Cleaner! Painting, Decorating & -#./'!0#))1!2!3(+%!45!6'!36.-7! Moving House Help! Tiling With Care 089:!;!:;<<=!>?8@A!;BC!CAD8B89A@=!BE!F;GHEBI! House & Pet Sitter…! JA/KA!LAAB!:A@<8BH!M>AG>!;BC!9:A8G!NE?! Lighting Your Way Into The Future * DEG!EKAG!9:8G9=!=A;G>O!0A!:;KA!AP9AB>8KA! all rolled into one!! AP89=!>=>9A?I!;BC!JA! Local & Reliable Tradesman QBEJ!;@@!;LEM9!6<<@A!$;N>!'##7! ForSTEPHEN one-off events J. or WILEYregular help please contact Lindsey House & Home Services )4.R!*#*!#.S!TUVWX!VVTWTT!Y!TZZWV!Z[\U\[! ! [email protected] or call ! 0A!NE?A!9E!=EM!J89:!>;?A!C;=!>AGK8NA!8D!>8L@AO!! * 0A!CEB/9!N:;GHA!DEG!9:A!N;@@]EM9!EG!8D!JA!N;B/9!D8P!89O! 01993 898620 07941 561471 · · INTERIOR DECORATING Additions Alterations Rewiring TILING – ALL TYPES · R S Services Surveys Security Lighting HOME MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS September 2019 Stonesﬁeld Slate 26 Cookers · Showers PERIOD PROPERTY EXPERIENCE Aerial, Satellite & TV Installations FULLY INSURED Telephone Points and repairs. * Qualified Engineer with over 40 years experience. NO JOB TOO SMALL Richard Buck For a free quote Elbie House East End Call Shane Berry Tel (01993) 882778/881409 Tel: 01993 880166 01 88 / 01865 881313 90 Main Road, Long Hanborough, Witney, OX29 8JY Mob: 07791 046583 07815 095704 [email protected]

April 2021 Stonesfield Slate 39

Jerrams Brothers Funeral Directors 33 High Street Woodstock OX20 1TE (01993) 811491

• Private Chapel of Rest • 24-hour personal family service • Pre-paid funeral plans

As the third generation of a funeral-directing family, Nicholas and Benjamin Tonks believe that at the time of bereavement, compassion and the families’ wishes are paramount. In partnership with the Church and community we endeavour to give the bereaved as much care and support as possible.

September 2019 Stonesﬁeld Slate 32 Slate SEP 19.qxp_SLATE MASTER v3.3 22/08/2019 08:04 Page 27 Slate SEP 19.qxp_SLATE MASTER v3.3 22/08/2019 08:04 Page 27

A tree surgery company with A tree surgery company with the integrity you can trust. the integrity you can trust. Tel: 0845 458 2980 Tel: 0845 458 2980 Mobile: 07976 261850 Mobile: 07976 261850 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.townandcountrytrees.co.uk www.townandcountrytrees.co.uk

MICHAEL PRICE & SON MICHAEL PRICE & SON PLASTERING PLASTERING SpecialistFor all your internal Private plastering Client Lawyers & Tax Professionals For all your internal plastering tel 07710 170049 or 01608Trusted 811642 advisors to individuals and their families tel 07710 170049 or 01608 811642 [email protected] [email protected]

58 Ticknell Piece Road,An outstanding niche private client ﬁrm…its practitioners are recommended as experts 58 Ticknell Piece Road, in their ﬁeld, providing high-quality advice…its client service is second to none and Charlbury, Oxon, OX7 every3TW client is valued equally and treated with sensitivity and genuine compassion. Charlbury, Oxon, OX7 3TW

We can assist you with specialist legal advice on Wills, inheritance tax planning, powers of attorney, helping with probate and generally Anna Burnside !"#$%&# [email protected] protecting your assets. We also help protect the vulnerable or elderly. GEOFF BOOTH Jacqui Birks $"' ()#&*$+# GEOFF BOOTH Our tax specialists are also here to help with your personal tax [email protected] Landscapingcompliance, including preparing · Paving personal tax· returnsWalling and o!ering Landscaping · Paving · Walling guidance on HMRC correspondence. They can also advise you on Driveways Fencing Treework Drivewaystax planning on the ·sale/gi Fencing"t of assets, including· Treework the new reporting · · of capital gains on the sale of private residences. For further information, please contact: Building maintenance Building maintenance [email protected] Dealing with your own a!airs and getting them in order can appear Hardwood logs delivered daunting.Hardwood We’re here to make logs life easier. delivered Do pick up the phone or email us and we wouldFree be happy quotations to have a free, no-obligation initial chat with Free quotations you. We canTel: meet on01993 video call or 891945in person when safe to do so. Tel: 01993 891945

The Carpenters’Mob: Workshop, 07710 Blenheim Palace Sawmills,628248 Combe, Oxfordshire OX29 8ET Mob: 07710 628248 T 01865 987 781 E [email protected] W www.theburnsidepartnership.com FOLLOW US ON: Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

40 April 2021 Stonesfield Slate 27 Stonesfield Slate September 2019 27 Stonesfield Slate September 2019 Slate SEP 19.qxp_SLATE MASTER v3.3 22/08/2019 08:04 Page 24

Slate SEP 19.qxp_SLATE MASTER v3.3 22/08/2019 08:04 Page 20 Stonesfield Based, Family Run Firm

All types of electrical work undertaken, no job too big or small We are fully insured & NICEIC approved electrical contractors nstallations, Kitchens and Bathrooms Advertisements The Stonesﬁeld Slate is a village , amenityOutbuildings & Rewires (Full & Partial) eplacement Line ads: £1.50 per 30 words. pro duced and distributed by volunteers. It Boxed ads: 1/16 page £2; 1/8 page £4; can not be held responsible for any of the inding 1/4 page £8; 1/2 page £12; whole page £24. views expressed in its pagesew or nor Additional does it Power Sockets/USB Sockets endorse any of the products or services Copy should be sent to [email protected] advertised. The editor and the publishers nstallations & Smoke Alarms by 15th of the month or dropped in to Slate SEPJenny 19.qxp_SLATE Haviland, Peakes MASTER House, v3.3 Peaks 22/08/2019 Lane, 08:04 Pagereserve 2624 the right to edit or shorten any Stonesﬁeld, OX29 8PY (tel. 01993 891614). article sub mittedAll for Work pub Guaranteedlication. & Certification Supplied when Applicable Call 01993 222444 or Email [email protected] Web www.OxElec.co.uk

KINGS CLEANING SERVICES Bed and Breakfast

Family business est. over 40 years. at Combe Cleaning windows Hypnotherapy – UVPC fascia boards – cladding – frames – gutters. For details SpecializedFor equipment help with anxiety, for cleaning stress, Stonesfield Based, Familyconservatory Run Firmpain control,roofs & insomnia, solar panels. phobias, please view unwantedFully insured. habits, confidence www.greenclose.net For a professionaland self-esteem, and reliable exam and service All types of electrical work undertaken, no job too big or small ring 01993interview 882727 nerves.or 07974 991269. or call 01993 891223 AcupunctureWe for arestress fully reduction, insured & NICEIC approved electrical contractors pain relief, arthritis, migraine, fatigue,nstallations, Kitchens and Bathrooms hormone imbalance, and• NO more. ,FUSS• Outbuildings & Rewires (Full & Partial) JEM •NO MESS • Contact:eplacement Linda Flanigan VEHICLE TECH ClinicalA. Hypnotherapist K. P. DIXON CHIMNEYclinic or in your own• NO home. PROBLEM • Home & Gardeninding Maintenance GHR Registered & Member (Lic.) of National Mobile mechanic servicing, repairs, diagnostics SWEEPING Tel: 01865 772996 Council for Hypnotherapy consultation please contactew me or on Additional 01993 Power Sockets/USB& SocketsGeneral Handyman & MOTs prepared and arranged

898102 / 07791 278618 For all those jobs you need doing for all makes & models Enjoyable drawing courses and workshops, !!!!!!!!!!Tel: 07866 360359 ! Enjoyable art courses and workshops in nstallationsinside & Smoke & outside Alarms – I’m your man! all levels. Private tuition. Email: [email protected]!"#$%&"#! Friendly & reliable service at competitive rates, community roomsor in visit Stonesfield, Combe Call Ade on 01993 813873 For more details contact Gabriele at www.lfhypnotherapy.co.uk 19 years experience & based in Stonesfield and Finstock. '()*+,-*.%(/"0#.-#"#1-(or 07825 631111 [email protected] more detailsAll Work contact Guaranteed Gabriele & Certification Supplied when Applicable Call Rob on 01608 646100 or 07791 755771 or email [email protected]*301-( at [email protected] ring 01993 01993 222444 880430 or Email [email protected] Web www.OxElec.co.uk Email: [email protected]

78#!9#5!*##!6'%33:! Experienced local Mathematics tutor with BSc September 2019 Stonesfield Slate 24 for students aged 8–14 years old. KINGSPROBLEM CLEANING FEET? SERVICE S (4+#."1.(5-$6(78897(:9;;<;( Tailored sessions based on the student’s individual Bed5-$=*-#->3".0+#?1+?@A(Imagine and Breakfast Life! needsNAILFamily with CUTTING abusiness focus on improving• est.CORNS over low • 40confidence CALLUS years. in the subject in a friendly way. !>>>?B&$C"#$%&"#?1+?@A(if you had your own…! PROBLEMCleaning NAILSwindows • FOOT – UVPC MASSAGE fascia at Combe Available on Thursdays after school. Gardener! boardsSessions – cladding will take place– frames in your – home. gutters. TreatmentSpecialized in the equipment comfort of yourfor cleaning own home ForDecorator details! SHARON DAVIESFrom £30 MCFHP p/h MAFHP "#$!%!&#'()*+*+,)!-.#*)!/! conservatory roofs & solar panels. pleaseBabysitter view! (01993)Call 891132 Jade on / 07758(M) 07941843353 512848 0$+)1234!$)3+%53)!6)$,+&)! or email [email protected] insured. www.greenclose.netDe-clutterer! RegisteredFor a professional member of and the Britishreliable Association service ring 01993of Foot 882727 Health Professionalsor 07974 991269. I can or help call you 01993 clear your891223 clutter, weed out your wardrobe and find new homes for your unwanted items.! September 2019 Stonesfield Slate 20 Stylist with 20 years of experience, specialising inDog colour Walker and! cutting "#$%&'()A. K. P. !DIXON%)#*+($,! VEHICLESpring Cleaner TEC! H Home-#./'!0#))1! & Garden2!3(+%!45!6'!36.- Maintenance7! Moving House Help! Mobile mechanic servicing, repairs, diagnostics 089:!;!:;<<=!>?8@A!;BC!CAD8B89A@=!BE& General Handyman !F;GHEBI! &House MOTs prepared& Pet and Sitter… arranged! JA/KA!LAAB!:A@<8BH!M>AG>!;BC!9:A8G!NE?! For all those jobs you need doing for all makes & models TraditionalDEG!EKAG!9:8G9=!=A;G>O!0A!:;KA!AP9AB>8KA! & modern HBH all rolledFull clean into & one! sanitising! colouringAP89=!>=>9A?I!;BC!JA!inside & techniquesoutside – I’m & your man! Friendly & reliableof all service equipment at competitive & touch rates, For one-off events or regular help CallQBEJ!;@@!;LEM9!6<<@A!$;N>!'##7! Ade on 01993 813873 19 years experience & based in Stonesfield colour correction pleasesurfaces contact between Lindsey clients )4.R!*#*!#.Sor!TUVWX 07825!VVTWTT 631111!Y!TZZWV !Z[\U\[! ! [email protected] Rob on 01608 646100 or 07791 or 755771 call ! or email0A!NE?A!9E!=EM!J89:!>;?A!C;=!>AGK8NA!8D!>8L@AO!! [email protected] Email: [email protected] 0A!CEB/9!N:;GHA!DEG!9:A!N;@@]EM9!EG!8D!JA!N;B/9!D8P!89O! 01993 898620 07941 561471

September 2019Every Stonesﬁeld client Slate has exclusive use2624 of the salon during their appointment, one-in-one-out policy with a single stylist

Fully air conditioned & Peaceful atmosphere in a with free WiFi Booking essential private setting

Tel: Cheryl on 07884412534 / Email: [email protected] Whinstay, Peaks Lane, Stonesfield, OX29 8PY Mobile hairdressing services available on request

April 2021 Stonesfield Slate 41 We are delighted to have re-opened our Park & Gardens to provide our local villages with an opportunity to exercise in the fresh air. Pre-booking is essential before any visit, including all Annual Pass and Walking Permit Holders.

!e Luna Drive-In Cinema Following the fantastically popular 2020 Summer Season, The Luna Drive In Cinema is returning to our stunning grounds from the 6th May. After spending months inside you’ll be able to enjoy a classic movie on the big screen in a social distanced and safe Drive-In setting in the comfort of your own car. Book tickets via our website.

A"ordable Homes at Park View, Woodstock At Blenheim Estate Homes, we are committed to building truly a!ordable homes for local families. Applications open this month for homes and apartments at Park View, Woodstock under both a!ordable rent and shared ownership schemes. Visit blenheimestate.com/parkview to ﬁnd out more and apply.

Preparations for Christmas have already begun Our Forestry Team have been busy planting 3,000 Christmas tree seedlings across a 10-acre section of managed woodland on our estate. After years of careful management these trees will be ready to become the centrepiece of your festive celebrations. Read more at blenheimestate.com/news

Keep up-to-date with our news and latest events by signing up to our newsletter at blenheimpalace.com

BP_StonesfiledSlate_FP_Advert_MARCH_2021_FINAL.indd 1 09/03/2021 09:38 42 April 2021 Stonesﬁeld Slate

It’s going to be a while before we can travel overseas again, so holidays in the UK are in more demand than ever. We offer the widest choice of UK breaks whether you are looking for beaches, lakes, mountains or cities staying in hotels, cottages or holiday parks. If Government regulations change, we only work with suppliers who guarantee you either a full refund or priority rebooking to new dates, so you know you can book now with confidence. Tel: 01993 627815

April 2021 Stonesfield Slate 43 Spring’s coming* *and you’ve lost your keys again!

Take a look at our range of keyhooks at ablackbirdsang.com

20% STONESFIELD AND NEARBY VILLAGE DISCOUNT: USE THIS CODE WHEN CHECKING OUT: STONESFIELD20

44 OR CALL GENNY ANDApril 2021 TONY Stonesﬁeld ON Slate 01993 891030