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EDITORIAL
The Post Office wants to close 2500 post offices out of the national total of 14000.
Filkins Post Office is under threat of closure, and we must prepare now for the battle to
keep it open.
On 5th February The Post Office will announce their plans for this area, and which
offices they propose to close. There will then follow a six week consultation period
before the changes are set in stone.
The grounds upon which The Post Office will take its decisions about closure are based
partly on very specific matters like ease of access to the building, customer usage, the
range of services offered, and distance to alternative offices. But there is also some
indication that the level of popular support and other matters may play a part.
In the case of Filkins, the post office is an integral factor in the success of the new
community shop, Filkins was 2007 National Community Life Village of the Year, and
Filkins Post Office is in a building owned by a village trust and supported by the Parish
Council. All grist to the mill of a popular campaign against closure.
And it is a battle which should be benefice-wide, for Filkins Post Office is the only one
we have: 11 parishes, 12 churches, 15 villages... One post office.
Shops of all sorts, pubs, garages as well as post offices have all disappeared from our
parishes. Let’s make a stand now, and say ‘Keep Filkins Post Office.’ Ena Constable has
given most of her working life to the post office in Filkins, and she is keen to remain at
her post. Please help her, and help all of us.
Please visit Filkins Post Office this week, and please sign the petition you will find there.
Your help may be crucial.
Richard Martin
PARISH & BENEFICE SERVICES
3rd February - Candlemas
10.30am Shilton
Benefice Eucharist Service
6.00pm Kencot
Evensong
EJ
6th February - Ash Wednesday
HX-1, EJ, \ UW
7.30pm Kencot Benefice Service
HM, EJ, NUW
10th February - Lent I
9.00am Alvescot
Holy Communion
HM
9.00am Broadwell
Holy Communion
NUW
.00am Westwell/Holwell Combined Holy Communion
10.30am B Poggs
Parish Communion EJ
EJ
10.30am Shilton
Family Communion HM
Children’s Church
11.00am L.Faringdon Matins NUW
6.00pm B Bourton
Evensong
HM
13th February
9.00pm Alvescot
Compline
HM
17th February- Lent II
9..am B Bourton/Alvescot Combined Holy Communion
EJ
9.00am Holwell
Holy Communion
NUW
10.30am Broadwell/Kencot Combined Matins
PW
10.30am Kelmscott Family Communion EJ
10.30am Langford
Parish Communion NUW
6.00pm Filkins
Evensong
EJ
6.00pm Westwell
Evensong
NUW
20th February
9.00pm B Bourton
Compline
NUW
24th February- Lent III
9.00am Kencot/Broadwell Combined Holy Communion
HM
BCP, no sermon
9.00am Shilton
Holy Communion
NUW
10.30am Alvescot/B Bourton Combined Parish Communion
NUW
10.30am Filkins
Family Communion HM
11.00am L.Faringdon Parish Communion EJ
4.00pm Langford
Evensong
EJ
6.00pm Holwell/Westwell Combined Evensong
HM
27th February
9.00pm Shilton
Compline
HM
Combined services are in the first-named church
There is also a Communion Service at Black Bourton every Wednesday at 10.00am
CELEBRANTS & SERVICE LEADERS
EJ
Liz Johnson HM Harry MacInnes
NUW Neville Usher-Wilson PW Paul Winchester
BENEFICE SERVICES 2008
Date
Benefice service at 10.30am
16th March B.Poggs - cum- Filkins Palm Sunday
6th April
B Bourton
4‘” May
Broadwell Rogation Sunday
lst‘ June
Kelmscott
6th July
Alvescot
3rd August
Holwell 7‘” September Kencot
October
Harvest Festivals 2°d November Westwell 7’n December Langford
THE LECTIONARY
3rd February - Candlemas (G or W)
Malachi 3.1-5 Psalm 24 7-end
Hebrews 2.14-end
Luke 2.22-40
6th February -Ash Wednesday (P)
Joel 2.1,2, 12-17
Psalm 51.1-18
2 Corinthians 5.20b-6,10
Matthew 6.1-6,16-21
10th February - Lent I (P)
Genesis 2.15-17,3.1-7 Psalm 32
Romans5. 12-19
Matthew 4.1-11
17‘n February- Lent II (P)
Genesis 12.1-4a
Psalm 121
Romans4.1-5,13-17 John 3.1-17
24th February - Lent III (P)
Exodus 17.1-7 Psalm 95
Romans5.1-11 John4.5-42
CANDLEMAS
Candlemas is the last feast in the liturgical year which looks back to Christmas;
henceforth everything looks forward to Easter. Many of the customs associated with
Candlemas are accordingly about renewal and change. The name itself comes from an
ancient Roman Catholic practice of on this day blessing all the candles which will be
used on the altar throughout the coming year. The feast day has also long been associated
with the presentation of Jesus in the temple at the end of his mother’s 40 days of
purification according to Jewish Law, which is described by St Luke:
And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished,
they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord, and to offer a sacrifice
according to that which is said in the law of the Lord....
And, behold there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man
was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon
him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death,
before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.
And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child
Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, then took he him up in his arms, and
blessed God, and said, ‘Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to
thy word- for mine eyes have seen thy salvation, which thou bast prepared before the face
of all people; a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.’
And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him. And
Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold this child is set for the fall
and rising again of many in Israel...’
The Candlemas theme of renewal, of looking forward to Spring and the unfolding year
was taken up by Robert Herrick...
CEREMONIES FOR CANDLEMAS EVE
Down with the rosemary and bays,
Down with the misletoe;
Instead of holly, now up-raise
The greener box, for show.
The holly hitherto did sway;
Let box now domineer,
Until the dancing Easter-day,
Or Easter’s eve appear.
Then youthful box, which now hath grace
Your houses to renew,
Grown old, surrender must his place
Unto the crisped yew.
When yew is out, then birch comes in,
And many flowers beside,
Both of a fresh and fragrant kin,
To honour Whitsuntide.
Green rushes then, and sweetest bents,
With cooler oaken boughs,
Come in for comely ornaments,
To re-adorn the house.
Thus times do shift; each thing his turn does hold;
New things succeed, as former things grow old.
Robert Herrick (1591 - 1674)
THE RECTOR’S LETTER
Dear Friends
As the New Year gets under way I was pondering about a media story or theme that
regularly seems to crop up, which is about how we now live in a secular country, about
the ever declining numbers of people going to church and the increasing irrelevance of
the Christian faith to people today. What I am struck by is how this seems to be at odds
with what I experience as a country parson in this Benefice.
Following on from all the Christmas services from midnight mass to school nativities and
carol services and the significant attendance for
these special events I paused at the beginning of the New Year to look at the church
register in one of my parishes that went back to the 1960’s to see what the church
attendance was like then. What genuinely surprised me was to find that the average
Sunday attendance in this parish in the 1960’s was around four to six people, when the
incumbent only had a couple of parishes to look after, whereas now in that parish it is
about 15 to 20 people.
My experience as Rector in this Benefice is that the church is still called upon to be at the
centre of most people lives, giving spiritual value to birth, marriage and death. But what I
also find so delightful is the way that those who do come to church at other points in the
year, discover how much they enjoy worship and experience a divine touch on their lives.
Faith still has much to offer us in a culture which perhaps in the mainstream media has
adopted the mantra of ‘if in doubt, shop.’
As Jonathan Sachs, the Chief Rabbi, succinctly put it ‘Life is too full of blessings to
waste time and attention on artificial substitutes. Live, give, forgive, celebrate and praise;
these are still the best ways of making a blessing out of life, thereby turning life into a
blessing.’
As we move further in the new year and prepare this month for Lent, I am greatly
encouraged to experience how the Christian faith still resonates with so many here in this
Benefice.
Harry MacInnes
THE WAY THINGS ARE
1 There were 478 new clergy ordained in 2006, down from 505 new
ordinands in 2005, but up from 469 in 2004. For the first time more women (244) were
ordained than men (234).
2 ‘I was brought up as a Catholic in a small village where the priest was the
boss. My dad remembers me going to church with my mother, praying to God to make us
win games. I got the bible out when we were 1-0 down, saying “Jesus Christ, let us win
this game.” I still do the same thing, but without the book now.’ Arsene Wenger (Arsenal
FC head coach)
3 A survey published in The Times in December 2007 found that:
62% of Britons believe that we have souls
62% believe in fate
51% are likely to ‘touch wood’ to avoid bad luck
47% believe in life after death
41% believe in telepathy
38% believe in ghosts
31% believe in extraterrestrial beings
23% believe in horoscopes
16% believe in lucky charms
LENT COURSE
With Easter coming so early this year, Lent is upon us almost before we have put away
the Christmas decorations. The Lent Course we have chosen is on the Lord’s Prayer. As I
write, I have not yet received the materials, but this is the course description:
‘This course reflects on the world’s most famous prayer. In the Lord’s Prayer Jesus gives
us a pattern for living as his disciples. He also raises vital questions for today’s world in
which ‘daily bread’ is uncertain for two billion people, and a refusal to ‘forgive those
who trespass against us” escalates violence.’
Plenty of food for thought.
We shall be meeting in Filkins Vicarage every Monday evening during the five weeks of
Lent, beginning on 11”’ February at 7.30 pm. We are a very informal group, and
everyone is welcome. There is also a possibility of running a daytime group, if enough
people are interested, so please let me know (on 01367 860846) if that would suit you
better.
Liz Johnson
CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
0ur January meeting had, very unfortunately, to be cancelled at the last moment due to ill
health. So we shall have our ‘Members’ Meeting’ on 6th February, when we meet, as
usual, at the Filkins Methodist Chapel Schoolroom at 2.45pm. We do hope that all
members will be fit and wellthis time.
‘
At our following meeting on Wednesday 5th March, Diane Blackett will show slides of
life in Guyana in preparation for our Women’s World Day of Prayer. [See below. Ed/ As
always, everyone is warmly welcomed to attend our meetings.
Marjorie Barstow
WOMEN’S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER
The Women’s World Day of Prayer is on Friday 7‘” March at 2.30pm in Filkins
Methodist Chapel, and the service has this year been prepared by the Christian Women of
Guyana. If you have never attended please do come along, everyone will be made
welcome. For more information please contact either Helen Squire (01367 860337) or me
(01367 860504).
Diane Blackett
SHILTON BAPTIST CHAPEL
daily newspaper printed a photo from Iraq. It showed a boy of nine scrambling across a
bomb crater, the boy looked anxious and was cradling his pet rabbit. The picture moved
me more than photos of burning buildings. The boy and his rabbit made it personal; it
told me about the way violence disrupts the lives of innocent people and of their longing
to be normal again. Boys and rabbits may not be strategically important to generals, but
the picture had a powerful message. It told me that love can survive,
even through suffering, crystallised here in the love of a small boy for his pet.
It was the one living thing he could hold on to, it was precious to him.
Not long ago we celebrated Epiphany, that time of year when churches remember the
Wise Men who followed the Star and found Jesus. They came from the east and probably
the area around Iraq. That was a long time ago, but I hope there may still be a few wise
men in Iraq who can spare a thought and some compassion for little people and their
unspoken needs - like the boy and his rabbit.
Lord of compassion, give me grace to open up my life to others’ needs. Joy Ralph
Preachers for February
3rd February informal
10th February Graham Sparrowhawk followed by communion
17th February Tony Gibson
24th’ February David Earl
Although it seems a long time ago we’d like to thank everyone who supported the Coffee
Morning in November in any way. We were able to give £136.34 to the charity Helping
Hands to help our school El Shaddei in Uganda.
A note for your diaries: we are joining with Shilton Church and hope to have an Open Air
Service at the pond on Sunday 29”” June. Lots more about that later on.
Elizabeth Harfield
CHILDREN’S CHURCH
W e meet every second Sunday of the month at the Shilton Old School/Village Hall at
10.15am. This gives parents a chance to drop the children in and then, if they want to,
join the Family Communion Service in the church just across the way. We join the main
service about 40 minutes later. If you have any queries, do please contact me on 01993
847039.
Debs Price
CHEERS, PAT!
Pat Pratley has retired as benefice secretary, and I would like to thank her for unfailingly
supplying every month the services, lectionary and ‘from the registers’ information for
inclusion in Parish Pump. Thanks Pat. RJM
FILKINS & DISTRICT ROYAL BRITISH LEGION
Poppy Appeal
This year’s Poppy Appeal proved to be most successful, thanks to the generosity of
everyone in the Broadshire villages and the many stalwart collectors. Over £1,500 was
collected from poppy sales. This was over £200 more than last year. When the
Remembrance Service collection and the money given by the villages for their wreaths
was added, a grand total of almost £2,100 was sent to the Poppy Appeal. Thank you for
your support to this most worthy cause.
Rachel Taylor Poppy Appeal Organiser
Remembrance Service
The 2007 Service was held at St Peter and St Paul’s Church Broadwell. A short Act of
Remembrance preceded the service at the village memorial. This was particularly
poignant this year as it coincided with the anniversary of the signing of the Armistice on
11‘” November 1918. In addition to the Branch wreath, laid by the President, Air Chief
Marshal Sir John Allison, two further wreaths were laid: Mr David McFarlane
represented WODC and a representative of the younger generation, Grace Chapman,
from Broadwell, remembered those who had been killed in the two World Wars from the
Broadshire villages. The temporary Field of Remembrance, adjacent to the
memorial, was used by many this year to remember friends and relations
killed in the wars by planting the small Poppy Appeal crosses.
The service was led by the rector, Harry MacInnes. It was marvellous to see so many in
church. There is no doubt that the heavy commitments of our young servicemen in
Afghanistan and Iraq are appreciated by many in our community and the country at large.
This theme was taken up by the Rector in his sermon. His words were much appreciated
by everyone present.
Christmas Bingo
There was an excellent turn-out for this year’s Christmas Bingo on 13”’ December in
Filkinsl. Over £560 was raised for the Poppy Appeal and the Legion. The Branch
Committee would like to thank everyone who helped with the organization (especially
Mick and Margaret Hambidge) and those who donated prizes and, of course, those who
attended the evening.
Branch Committee Meeting
The next meeting will held at The 5 Alls at 7.30pm Tuesday 5”’ February.
Come and find out more
Please remember that we welcome into membership not just ex-servicemen, but everyone
wanting to support the invaluable welfare work of the Royal British Legion. If you would
like to find out more about what we do then do please contact our branch secretary Andy
Hoad (01367 860388), membership secretary Mick Hambidge (01367 860381) or me
(01367 252205).
Jeremy Taylor
BENEFICE CHOIR
Christmas has now come and gone, with a busy time had by the choir. We sang carols for
some of the senior members of our Benefice at Bradwell Grove, followed by a Service of
Nine Lessons, Readings and Carols at Broadwell. We worked hard for this, and can feel
justifiably proud. I thought the service went well and although there were areas where
things might have gone better, nothing had your conductor panicking! Thank you to you
all, and I hope that everyone who came enjoyed it as much as I did.
We are going to do something similar on Saturday 20‘h December, at St Mary’s Black
Bourton at 6.00pm, so put it in your diaries now.
This year we embark on learning a lot of new music, to add to our repertoire. We are still
slowly growing in numbers, but we are however still short of people (particularly
sopranos). So do keep that new years resolution about doing something different this
year... and come and join us! My contact details as always are: 01993 841807 or 07850
064775, or email me on david@glebourton.fsnet.co.uk
FROM THE REGISTERS
HOLY BURIAL
8th January
•
Alvescot
William John Edmonds aged 95
ALVESCOT
St Peter’s
PRINCESS RUBY SLIPPERS... WOW!
The opening night performance of Princess Ruby Slippers by OTTC in the Village Hall
on the 20‘” November was fantastic. As ever OTTC gave a wonderful performance.
Thankfully the incorrect date which appeared in the Parish Pump did not prevent us from
filling the village hall to capacity. The young and not so young alike, had a great evening.
As ever our thanks go to everyone involved in organising the event which helps raise
much needed funds for our village hall. We would of course like to thank OTTC for
selecting us as their choice of opening night venue once again. Watch this space for news
of their next visit.
Terry Morris [Was the wrong date my fault? If it was, sorry. Ed]
SALSA COMES TO TOWN
On 151 March at 7.30 p.m. the Village Hall will be transformed into a hot bed of Latin
passion. Well, no not really... But Salsa Oxford are visiting us to give all those who are
brave enough a taster of this fantastic and fun way to keep fit. We can promise a cash bar
and nibbles thrown in with the fun. Watch this space next issue for more information but
those wishing to book early please contact me on 01993 842832.
Liz Savage
THE VILLAGE FETE 2008
Christmas is barely over, but thoughts must now turn to the Summer, and our Village
Fete... to be held this year on Saturday 21” June on the playing field.
If you would like to be involved in this year’s fete, please come along to our first
meeting, to be held at St. Peter’s School on Tuesday 12‘h February at 8.00pm. We’ll be
running through old and new ideas, and forming the Committee to arrange another
successful village event, raising money for local organisations.
It’s never too early to put aside unwanted Christmas gifts (or bottles!) for our stalls, so
please bear us in mind when clearing out. If you are unable to come along to the meeting,
but would like to help - please call on 01993 841522.
Ann Cadogan
ST PETER’S INFANT SCHOOL
On behalf of the children, staff and governors of St Peter’s I would like to wish you all a
very happy new year.
The end of last term proved busier than any before but just as wonderful as all
Christmas’s are at St Peter’s.
The Christmas celebrations began with our Gift Evening.
Once again we welcomed many traders to the school and there was a great festive
atmosphere as everyone enjoyed the mulled wine and mince pies, courtesy of Pat Scott
and Liz Savage. Many thanks, this year to Sharon Waters and Sandie Morris for
organizing this event and to everyone who came a long and did their Christmas shopping.
After the gift evening came the Christmas Bazaar. This year we raised the incredible
amount of £1400 and we would like to thank you all once again for supporting this event
so well by helping man stalls, selling raffle tickets and coming along, which all
contributed to such a great total.
Just as it seemed that life at St Peter’s could not get any busier, we received notification
of our OFSTED inspection at the end of November. Many thanks to everyone (staff,
governors and villagers) who rallied round to clean and tidy the school after the bazaar.
The staff were extremely grateful for all the support and good wishes sent their way.
The OFSTED inspection was highly successful and Liz Savage, the Chair of Governors
reports:
We the Governors of St Peter’s school always knew that our staff and our children are
outstanding in their efforts to bring to this Village a small school par excellence.
Just before the Christmas break we were visited by OFSTED and they not only agree
with us but awarded the school the highest grades possible. As far as we are aware no
other school in the County has matched this. I have been Chair of Governors for eight
years now and have worked with all the staff that have been a part of our team during that
time and I am proud of what we have built together to achieve this result.
Our thanks go to all those who supported us from our neighbours, our church and
especially our parents. Alvescot should be, and I hope is, very proud to have this centre
of distinction within our community. We are of course very fortunate to have an
exceptional headteacher in Sam King and as anyone knows every ship needs its Captain
and we have one of the best.
...and from inspection to the Nativity. This year’s nativity, ‘Is there a baby in there?’ was
truly wonderful. The children were marvellous and the confidence with which they spoke
and sang was quite remarkable for children so young. Thanks go to all the staff who
worked so hard and to Colin Newlands once again, who accompanied the children’s
singing on the piano.
The Reverend Usher-Wilson led the Christingle service this year. This was extremely
well supported, and money was raised in aid of The Children’s Society. Thank you to all
those who attended and for your donations, as well as to the Cotswold Wildlife Park who
donated the oranges.
This year the children of St Peter’s were very proud to send over thirty boxes to
‘Operation Christmas Child’. Many thanks to Mrs Witt for delivering the boxes on behalf
of the school.
This year the whole school visited the Oxford Playhouse to watch the pantomime of
‘Aladdin’. The children, and staff thoroughly enjoyed the performance and we were
delighted that our children had the opportunity to experience this traditional Christmas
panto.
Many thanks to all members of the local community for all their support during 2007. We
look forward to what this year holds and hope that we can count on your support in order
that we continue to thrive and celebrate the continued success of the school in 2008.
Sam King
ST PETER’S ‘CHILLI ‘N’ VISION’
On Friday 8th February we are celebrating our recent OFSTED success and thinking
about the future of our school. We would welcome all members of the local community
to join us for chilli and wine at the village hall.
Please let us know if you can make it. Please telephone the school on 01993 842535 or
email office.3550@st-peters-inf.oxon.sch.uk
Sam King
BLACK BOURTON
St Mary’s
CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL AT ST MARY’S CHURCH
The Church looked absolutely beautiful for our Christmas Tree Festival. On behalf of the
PCC I would like to thank everybody who sponsored a tree and those who helped
decorate and do all the other jobs behind the scenes that help make this event a success.
Four trees lit the path to the Church and each tree inside was decorated as a Christmas
Carol. The interpretations were wonderful and lots of thought and hard work had been
put in to each one. Many. many thanks to you all.
Doreen Hart
CHRISTMAS CAROLS AT AT MARY’S CHURCH
On Sunday 23‘d December our beautiful Church was full of villagers and visitors (it was
standing room only) who had gathered together to sing Carols and share in the spirit of
Christmas. Mulled wine and mincepies were served by Pete Miles and his helpers, which
nicely oiled the vocal chords. Jane Barden kindly played the keyboard (lent to us by the
Clarkes) with brother John on hand to sort the music.
A carol was sung for each tree as well as requests. At one point I stopped singing and
listened to the wonderful sound of so many voices joined together in song; a very special
moment. The children behaved beautifully sitting on the lower chancel steps, which made
it even more special. It was wonderful to see the Church so full, giving the Christmas
festivities a brilliant start and showing the great community spirit of our village. A
collection was made for Children In Need which raised over £100.
Christine Pope
WEDNESDAY COMMUNION
Every Wednesday at St Mary’s Church, communion is held at 10.00am. It is a very
special service which gives you time to sit quietly and reflect, leaving you feeling
refreshed and peaceful. Everyone is warmly welcome.
BOOK SALE
There will be a second-hand book sale at St Mary’s Church on Saturday 16”’ February
from 9.30am to 12.00pm. Refreshments will also be available. If you have any books in
good condition, that you no longer want, please contact me on 01993 842241. All
proceeds will go to the church.
Wendy Taylor
BROADWELL
St Peter CT St Paul’s
CAROL SERVICE
The Benefice Carol service was on the Sunday before Christmas, and it was lovely to
have the church full. We enjoyed some really good singing from the choir, who produced
some unusual and beautiful carols, as well as the old familiar favourites. And the
congregation was in pretty good voice too. Many thanks to the people who produced the
wine and nibbles afterwards. So all in all, we were all imbued with much Christmas Spirit
at this gathering.
We are most grateful to the officiating clergy, both on this occasion and on Christmas
Day for the good grace with which they dealt with these two rather ad hoc events. And
heartfelt thanks to Brian Lewis and Roderick Wordie for emergency actions (they know
what we mean.)
WELCOME TO THE VILLAGE...
We welcome some new arrivals to the village; Adrian and Julia Munsey. They chose just
the right time to move in, as the season was truly festive.
June Goodenough
[June’s mind is no doubt on higher things with her ‘truly festive’ season, though Michael
the Mayor mentioned that it had also been noteworthily bibulous. Ed/
NEWS FROM BROADSHIRES PRE-SCHOOL
The children were really excited to see each other again after the Christmas holidays.
They eagerly started the new topic of Living Things with a look at dinosaurs (rather
ironic!). During this term they will be taking a closer look at animals of all kinds,
including mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds, fish, creepy crawlies, etc. We will be
visiting a local farm to see the cows and their young calves and we have also arranged for
pets to visit the pre-school to provide an opportunity for children to see smaller animals
close-up.
Other activities include modelling dinosaurs, celebrating the Chinese New Year with a
stir-fry tasting session, creating artwork based on animal markings, bubble-blowing, and
lots of favourite animal stories, poems and songs. Outdoors we have a new extended
patio area which gives us more space to play outdoors in the winter. The children deemed
it a great success, with comments like ‘Wow’ and ‘yippee’ and ‘can we stay out here
until home-time?’
We currently have a few afternoon places for children who are 2+ years old. If you are
interested and would like further information or to arrange a visit please contact Jackie
Overton at the Pre-school, telephone no. 01367 860729.
Alison Rodger
FILKINS & BROUGHTON POGGS
St Peter’s
SANDY SAUNDERS: FEBRUARY 1915 - OCTOBER 2007
Frederick Albert (Sandy) Saunders: flight lieutenant, warrior, campaigner, dancer,
neighbour, friend, and beloved uncle.
Sandy was an extraordinary man and those of us who knew him will miss hearing about
his latest exploits, and his sense of humour. He started life in an impoverished and badly
broken family. At the age of 16 he joined the RAF, came to Brize Norton as a pilot, and
met Edna at a local dance. Her mother warned her about RAF men but she obviously
took no notice; they were married at St Peter’s in Filkins, and for 641/2 years danced
their way through life together.
The war years, as for many, were difficult. He was shot down and taken prisoner of war.
He escaped (well, he would, for he was always stubborn), and then when recaptured was
cruelly treated. He found out that his fellow POW buddies had been transferred to a much
better camp and were well fed, whilst he had starved and been beaten, but it never
stopped him trying. Sandy was a true patriot, and was willing to put his life on the line
time and time again.
When flying days were over he turned to political campaigns. ‘It’s my country, and I
want it back.’ He even petitioned the Queen, believing that he had the right to tell her
when she was off-track, and reminding her that the liberties of the people override the
convenience of ministers.
Sandy loved his projects, and visitors to April Cottage will know that he never threw
anything as it would come in handy one day.
He celebrated the important events in his life in Filkins; his marriage, his 50‘” wedding
anniversary, and 90‘’ birthday (the last two celebrated in style in the village hall). He
died in his beloved April Cottage in Filkins, and of course his Thanksgiving Service in
October was also in Filkins, at St Peters. He will now always be a part of Filkins, the
village he and Edna loved so much.
Even though he is no longer with us his memory will continue to guide us and leave us
wondering if we could be as bold, brave, dedicated, selfless, resourceful, persistent,
eccentric, occasionally outrageous, or as caring as Sandy. For those who knew him:
cherish the memories, for you will not meet many like Sandy in your life.
VILLAGE REUNION 2008
We intend to hold the 2008 reunion will be on 5”’ July, and more details will be in March
or April Parish Pump. But please put a note in your diary now.
NEW FACES IN THE VILLAGE
Welcome to Jackie and Roland Cullum who have moved into Stone House. John and
Trish Poole have moved next door to Beech Cottage.
Also welcome to the Smith family (Helen, Dale, Eric and Ian) who have moved into 7,
The Gassons. Helen originates from Little Faringdon, and has returned to the area after
living with her family in the USA.
COFFEE MORNING
A big thank you to everyone who supported our Coffee Morning on 17‘” November with
donations of goods or money, helping on the day, or just attending. This was a lovely
social event with bargains galore, and it raised the magnificent sum of £460 for church
funds.
Barbara Bristow
BLITZ THAT LITTER
The Parish Council Annual Litter Blitz starts from Filkins Farmhouse on
23‘d February at 1.30pm Do please come along and help to keep y. your village among
the best kept villages in Oxfordshire.
All you need bring is yourself and a pair of stout gloves. (The pick up will take place rain
or shine!) There will be refreshments afterwards in the farmhouse.
Chris Bristow
NURSERY UPDATE
We had a great run up to Christmas at Filkins Nursery and the children put on a really
enjoyable Nativity play for their parents, complete with some very sparkly angels and
tea-towel topped shepherds. Everyone was very complementary and the children
certainly enjoyed themselves. The
following day was party-time, with a special visit from Father Christmas to finish the
term off in style.
We are now all back and full of energy for another busy year. Before we know it, it will
be half-term and we are running a holiday club from 18‘” to 22°‘’ February, between
8.00am and 6.00pm.
As well as catering for our usual 2-5 year olds, we will also be offering activities and fun
for 5-11 year olds, so if you need a morning or afternoon without your older children,
please give me a call on 01367 860594 and find out more.
Don’t forget, we always welcome visitors, so if you’d like to come and have a look
around, please just give us a call and arrange a convenient time.
Louise Jenkins
SWINFORD MUSEUM 2008 SEASON
We are gearing up for the forthcoming season with three new exhibitions: the first one
being ‘An insight into a Village School’ which will portray the life of Victorian pupils.
The second exhibition is ‘Victorians and their funerals’ which will prove quite
entertaining and quite eye opening, definitely not for the faint hearted! The third
exhibition is ‘The effect of 1914-1918 war on Filkins’ which will coincide with the 90
years since the end of the war.
If you have any anecdotes or objects relating to the above please do not hesitate to get in
touch with me on 01367-860504. The season starts on Sunday May 4‘h at 2.30: see you
there.
Diane Blackett
NEWS FROM THE FIVE ALLS
We are now open all day Saturday and Sunday, and are holding special events...
Sunday Quiz Nights
3rd & 17th February. Pit your wits against your fellows.
St Valentine’s Promotion
Thursday 14th to Saturday 16”’ February: a 5-course meal in our rose petal strewn
candle-lit restaurant. £17.50 pp
Mothering Sunday Lunch...
Not only will your long suffering mother get off the washing up on 2”d March, she will
also receive a Mothers’ Day Gift and a traditional 3-course lunch that you only paid
£17.50 for. Result. Book Early!
... Or Grand High Tea
Come round and relax after lunch for a superb Grand High Tea from 3.00 to 6.00pm
when you can relive your childhood over the dainty sandwiches, scones, cakes and
Fortnum & Mason Tea.
St Patrick’s Day
£5 Irish Steak Night on 17”’ March with a hunk o’ rump, a pile of good potatoes, with the
Tam o’Baileys Irish Cream puddings and top of the
evening cheap Guinness, Magners and Irish Ale. Space limited, a booking is to be sure, to
be sure. /Stereotypes are a delightful specialty of the house. Ed]
Easter Sunday
23‘d March: a Chocolate Egg Hunt at 12noon, followed by a Special Lunch
THEATRE AGM
Filkins Theatre AGM is on Friday 7‘” March at 8.00pm in the Village Hall. A warm
welcome to all members and to all who are interested in Theatre: acting, singing,
dancing, back stage, directing, larking about...
Drinks and nibbles afterwards. For more info, telephone Pat Scott on 01993 846255 or
me on 01367 860229.
Sue Ashforth-Smith
ROSTER FOR VOLUNTARY CAR SERVICE TO SURGERIES
Covering Filkins, Broughton Poggs, Broadwell, Kencot, Langford and L Faringdon 5””
February Mrs C Lauzier 860644
21th February Lady Allison 860787
th February Mrs P Clark 860500 26”” February Mrs J Higham 860197 12th February Mr
A Woodford 860319 28” February Mrs V Godfrey 860498 14”’ February Miss H Squire
860337
19th February Mrs J Geake 860534
(All codes 01367)
For hospital runs, or with any problems, contact me on 01367 860319 Local surgery runs
£2.00
Hospitals: Fairford & Witney £6.00 Swindon & Cirencester £8.00 Oxford £10.00 At the
JR, parking charges may have to be paid, and will be added to the bill.
Tony Woodford
GARDENING CLUB
I am sure that all keen gardeners have been making the most of the dry days to do those
winter jobs like washing plant pots and tidying the greenhouse. Those of us in the
Gardening Club have also been turning our minds to activities for 2008. We will have
held our first meeting of the year by the time this is published. Please see the section in
Leisure Time on the Filkins website for information about the Club. It is currently being
updated.
A date for everyone to note please is Saturday 3”’ May. This the morning for our annual
Plant Sale in the Village Hall. The Plant Sale was well supported last year and we were
able to make the promised donation to the 150th Anniversary Celebrations of St Peter’s
Church. We will let you know in a future issue of the Pump what we aim to support this
year.
At least as importantly as raising money, the Plant Sale is a great opportunity for people
in the villages to buy what others have grown or given and to talk plants and gardening
over a cup of coffee. We hope you will support it this year by putting the date on your
calendar now and, if possible, by planting a few extra seeds or growing on a few
additional cuttings.
You might also put aside for the Sale any garden-related items you no longer want or
unused gifts. If you need any plastic plant pots or require any other information, please
contact me on 01367 860282 or Chris Woodford on 01367 860319. Happy gardening
Lucille Jones
HOLWELL
‘ St Mary’s
FAMOUS HOLWELLS WE HAVE KNOWN
In 1758 John Zephaniah Holwell published A Genuine Narrative of the Deplorable
Deaths of the English Gentlemen and others who were suffocated in the Black Hole, a
racy account of his incarceration in Calcutta two years before.
KELMSCOTT
St George’s
CHURCH BRASS AND FLOWERS
Lil Gibbs
CAROL SERVICE
St George’s Church looked beautiful for the annual Carol Service, this year held on
Monday 17‘” December - lit by candles and filled with villagers and friends everyone
enjoyed the traditional carols and readings, followed by mince pies and mulled wine.
The collection was given to Douglas House, Oxford. Ellie Maughan
CHRISTMAS...
18 junior villagers would like to convey a big ‘thank you’ to Santa Claus for stopping off
here on Friday 21S‘ December. Their presents were delightful (just what they wanted!)
and the mulled wine and mince pies were much enjoyed by the grown ups.
[Apologies for the photo reproduction. It is something we are working to improve
generally in Parish Pump. Ed/
KENCOT
St George’s
CHURCH FLOWERS
February
Susan Portergill
The new roster will be in the Church Porch shortly. May I take this opportunity to thank
all our flower arrangers, who have provided lovely flowers, to keep the Church looking
so beautiful throughout the past year. It is wonderful to have such a dedicated and reliable
team. Thank you all most sincerely.
Thanks must also go to our regular donors too, who so kindly ensure that there is enough
in the flower fund to provide some flowers, oasis and other needs.
Marjorie Barstow
ARRIVALS
We welcome Gareth and Lynne John to The Malthouse and hope that they will have a
long and happy stay with us.
CAROL SINGING
Every year I begin to fear that this may be our last Carol Singing, but two enthusiastic,
though smaller groups visited most houses in Kencot and Broadwell on 19”’ and 21s‘
December. Our regulars turned up along with one or two new singers - Hurrah! We were
blessed with dry moonlit nights and received very welcome food and wine en route.
As usual we ended in Kencot at the Village Hall, made festive by Susan Portergill and
enjoyed refreshments and a final sing. In Broadwell, hot soup awaited us at Little Hay.
Our grateful thank to Andrew Auger for accompanying us yet again and to all who
welcomed us and contributed so generously to our collecting box. In spite of several
unoccupied houses following the July flood, £450 has been sent to Cancer Research UK.
Helen Squire
..AND NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS
Over 50 villagers, their families and friends gathered to welcome in the New Year at the
Morris Memorial Hall. Thanks to Mark Horner, our DJ, for the evening and to everyone
else for their contributions. It was an excellent night
Jane Milne
1 LANGFORD
St Matthew’s
ROBERT CLACK:
7TH JUNE 1928 TO 27T’ ‘ NOVEMBER 2007
Bob was born on the 7‘” June 1928 in the village of Broughton Poggs to Arthur and
Lillian, who originated in Devon. He moved to Langford at a young age and attended St.
Christopher’s School until the age of 13, when he progressed to Burford Grammar
School. He was a model student and achieved very good results in all exams taken. He
was well known for his excellent hand writing.
He started his working life at RAF Brize Norton. In 1946 he joined the Royal Air Force
to fulfil his National Service commitment and was billeted at several stations around the
UK including Scotland and Yorkshire. During these early years of work, Bob trained as
an Aircraft Instrument Fitter and became a very proficient technician. Following his
National Service Bob returned to Brize Norton and took a Civil Service placement, where
he worked in 6 Maintenance Unit. In 1955 he moved onto RAF Kemble where he worked
his way up to a management grade. During that time, one of his major achievements was
the re-wiring of the ‘Battle of Britain’ Supermarine Spitfire. In 1983 he was honoured by
the Air Officer Commanding in Chief in the Queens New Years Honours List for all his
efforts and commitment to the base. Bob retired from the Civil service in 1988 after a
very happy and successful career.
In 1950 at the age of 22, he met an 18-year-old girl on a crowded bus coming back from
Faringdon. Being the true gentleman, he offered the girl a seat (on his knee of course). It
would appear that she accepted his kind offer and as we now know her name was Eileen.
They married in 1952 and went on to have three children, 7 grandchildren, 2 stepgrandchildren, and 5 great grandchildren.
Bob and Eileen were also foster parents to many other children during their working lives
(49 to be exact) Bob helped Eileen in so many ways and loved all the children. The last
child they fostered was a very sick, six week old baby by the name of Lin Tai. They
treated Lin Tai as if she was their own child, overcoming all the difficulties and
challenges placed in their way and now, at the age of 34, Lin Tai still lives with the
family and has turned out to be a fabulous lady with Bob’s sense of humour and many of
his mannerisms. Oxfordshire Social Services commended them for their devotion to
Foster Care at a ceremony in Oxford City Hall back in 2002.
Bob lived in Langford for 54 years and during that time he achieved numerous personal
goals. He was a member of the Parish Council for more than 26 years being Chairman
twice and vice chairman three times.
He was also on the Board of Governors at St Christopher’s school in Langford where he
took his duties very seriously, which helped to ensure the smooth and safe running of the
School. In reality, Bob was involved in all things to do with Langford from making the
tea at the cricket club to odd jobs for other villagers less able than himself.
Bob was very keen on sport. He was a member of the Witney & District Football
Association, where he became a Class 1 referee taking charge of many games during his
career. From time to time Bob also assisted in the training of potential new referees in the
association.
He became a significant member of the Civil Defence Force unstintingly and unselfishly
giving a large amount of his own time to the security of the nation, receiving a letter from
the Queen thanking him for all of his devotion and efforts.
When the force disbanded, Bob joined The Royal Observer Corps (ROC), where he again
gave his time and experience to help ensure the country would be kept safe in times of
turmoil. He also received a commendation from the ROC for his dedication to the Corps.
I have learned from some of his contemporaries that once on an excursion in a Civil
Defence Land Rover they stopped for refreshments. The drinks were served on a tray,
which was later placed empty in the upturned spare wheel on the bonnet. Going along
afterwards the tray was lifted by the force of the air and hovered in the tyre. They were
convinced that it was them that had invented the Hovercraft.
Bob was very proud to have been a member of the Civil Defence Force and helped to line
part of the route between Long Hanborough and Bladon during Sir Winston Churchill’s
funeral.
It is quite clear that Bob has given his life to helping others in many varied ways. He had
nothing bad to say about anybody, except perhaps Maggie Thatcher and the Welsh. Even
then, two of his children changed his mind by marrying Welsh people and he always
welcomed them into the family home. Looking back at Bob’s achievements its fair to say
that he deserves all the honour and praise that can ever be given to an individual.
Although it is sad to see that Bob has now passed away, we know that he will never be
forgotten as he has touched the hearts and minds of many many people and not just his
immediate family. He is now at rest in his own peaceful world.
We could go on and write a book, but we would just like to say: Thank you Robert Clack
for letting us be a part of your life. Wherever your next journey takes you, please ensure
that you take it easy and make time for yourself. We
know that if you have the chance to continue helping those less fortunate than yourself
then you will. We will celebrate your life as only you would want and help the Scottish
economy in the process. ‘Au revoir’ for now.
Robert’s family would like to thank everyone who helped to raise £250 for the Meadow
View Nursing home.
CHURCH FLOWERS
3‘d & 10”’ February Mrs R Range 17‘” February onwards Lent: no flowers
CAROL SINGING FOR ST. MATTHEW’S CHURCH
We had two fine nights under the watchful eye of our Choir leader, Mrs. Christine
Apperley where we visited as many houses as possible in the village. Our thanks to
everybody who put money into the boxes - the wonderful sum of £441 was raised for the
church. Also our thanks to Mr & Mrs Dudley, Mrs Austin, Mr & Mrs Johnstone and the
Bell Inn, who kindly fed us and gave us warming drinks on the way round.
JUMBLE SALE
There will be a jumble Sale on Saturday 8‘” March at 2pm in the Village Hall. Proceeds
will go to St. Matthew’s Church and the Village Hall. All good quality jumble will be
welcomed on Friday 7‘” March at the Village hall at 7.00pm. Further details from Cherry
MacDonald 01367 860304 and me on 01367 860091.
jenny Pitkin
AFFORDABLE HOUSING AT THE ELMS
The Parish Council must report that there are still delays with the building the new
houses at the Elms. West Oxfordshire Council passed the plans in November, but there is
still doubt as to the ownership of the site. This will delay building until Cottsway and its
insurers can satisfactorily overcome it.
Ali MacDonald
LANGFORD LADIES
Due to the re-decoration of Langford Village Hall, January’s meeting has now been put
back to 14‘” February. Members and guests are welcome to bring a plate of nibbles to the
meeting where we will be welcoming in the New Year. We meet in the village hall at
7.30pm. We will also be holding a small Bring and Buy in aid of the Thames Valley &
Chiltern Air Ambulance so even if you cannot make the meeting we will happily accept
any donations.
The membership fee for the full year is great value at £10, if you would like more
information please ring me on 01367 860514. We have a few spaces for speakers so if
you have a hobby, or know someone who would like to come and either give a
demonstration or talk please let me know.
Chrissy Tinson
WHIST
Join us for an evening of Whist at Langford village hall on Tuesday 5‘” February. We
start at 7.30pm; however if you would like some tuition please arrive a little earlier than
this. The entrance fee of £1 includes tea and biscuits at half time. You do not require a
partner to play. Profits go to Langford village hall and we play for fun with small prizes.
If you require more information ring me on 01993 852378.
Jo Hutchins
ST CHRISTOPHER’S NEWS
As always at St Christopher’s the term has started well
‘ with children settling back
into learning after all the excitement of Christmas. The end of term flew by with so many
performances and church services for the
children. The Christmas
“ festivities started with a
lovely Christingle Service hosted by Harry MacInnes at St Matthew’s Church. There was
a fantastic turn out for this including many old students and children from the village.
Cherry Class Christmas performance ‘The Nativity’ was, of course, a delight with all the
children singing with gusto. This was followed by Maple and Ginkgo performance -‘Are
we nearly there yet?’ Thank you goes to Mr Wargent who started the evening with a
rendition of Christmas music while parents enjoyed refreshments while waiting for the
performance. Again children had learnt all their words and performed and sung
beautifully.
Oak and Willow Classes hosted a lovely traditional Carol Service at St Matthew’s. The
children told the Christmas story through modern and traditional carols and readings from
the Bible. The congregation all enjoyed joining in the carols and also listening to the
children who sang beautifully.
Despite the long term and late ending children enjoyed themselves up to the very last
minute ending with a Christmas disco. This was great fun and children danced and sang,
feasted on hot dogs and really got into the festive spirit. I’m sure it won’t be long till the
next one...
This term our new topic is Water. The whole school are studying different aspects of this
fascinating subject and are already getting some hands on experience. Ginkgo Class are
off to the Banbury Museum for the day to study canals, barges and life on the waterways!
The day out also includes a trip on a barge. This should be a great day out and will form
the basis of work for the next few weeks. Oak and Willow Class are also off on their
travels, this time
to Coleshill national Trust Estate where they will be studying the river Cole and
practising their drawing and mapping skills. St Christopher’s joined the National Trust
several years ago partly to support this wonderful charity and so that we can enjoy some
of the fantastic educational resources and trips that they offer. I’m sure they will all have
a wonderful time.
We have two new members of staff in the kitchen this term. We would like to welcome
Tara Durlston-Powell our new cook and Debbie Carpenter, kitchen assistant. Tara and
Debbie were off to a good start at the beginning of term with children enjoying their
delicious cooking.
Following our sporting triumphs of the last few months, Year 3 children all enjoyed an
afternoon of Multiskills at Burford Secondary School, which they really enjoyed. The
Year 5 and 6 children are also off to Burford for an Indoor Athletics tournament which
I’m sure will prove popular. Our Sports Clubs are back running again and this term
include; Tag Rugby, Apparatus, Netball and Football. Eco club, Board Games, Cooking
and recorders are also on offer to broaden children’s interests. Eco club worked really
hard last term and are already well on the way to achieving Silver Eco Status. As the
weather improves. they hope to get outside more and start to develop our fantastic
grounds to their full potential.
The next quiz night hosted by the SCPA is on Friday 25th January. These evenings
always prove popular with several regular teams challenging each other for the St
Christopher’s cup and the glory of hosting the next quiz! We always welcome new teams
so if you fancy challenging the regulars please do come along and join in the fun.
We have had several people contact us through the Parish Pump over the last year and
have received lots of very valuable support, including regular reading support for
children, a lantern making workshop from Jane Milne at Kelsmcott Manor and lots, lots
more. Please do contact the school office on 01367 860318 or visit our website at
www.st-christophers.oxon.sch.uk if you can support our school in any way or for further
information.
Sarab Nisbet
LITTLE FARINGDON
St Margaret’s
WONDERFUL CAROL SERVICE
The Carol Service on the evening of Sunday 16‘” December was, once again, a
wonderful occasion. It was particularly atmospheric with the church being
floodlit outside, the candles flickering within and, thankfully, a large congregation. Our
thanks go to Barbara Browne for organising the service; the children for reading; Geoff
Holmes for playing the organ; Elizabeth and Peter Browne for singing and reading, and
of course, to the Rev Liz Johnson for leading the service.
It is a pity that a news-hound from a national newspaper reported details of the service.
Jeremy Taylor
2008 CHURCH LUNCH
The annual church lunch has been scheduled to take place on Sunday 22°d June at
Langford House. More news to come, but please mark this date on your calendar now!
Barbara Browne CHURCH FLOWERS
Lent No flowers
23rd March (Easter Sunday) Caroline Holden with help from everyone, please
SHILTON
Holy Rood
CAROL SERVICE
I would like to thanks to all the ladies who spent so much time putting together beautiful
arrangements in the church for Christmas. The church looked very lovely with all the
flowers, candles, the crib and Christmas tree.
Our Carol Service was on 16”’ December which was a very enjoyable day in the village.
The pre Christmas Lunch was held in the old School at 1.00pm. The lunch was as usual
very delicious and we all had a good time. After the clearing up we had time to go home
for a snooze before we went along to the Carol Service.
The church was floodlit which made the building look very attractive and with the
Christmas tree in the playground of the old school and all the lights shining in the
vicarage that corner of the village looked extremely festive. The church was full for the
service and so the singing was excellent and following the service we were all invited
into the vicarage for drinks and nibbles which rounded off the day very well.
Jean Roberts
LOOKING BACKWARDS... AND FORWARDS
Predictably, I begin 2008 with yet more ‘thank you’ for the amazingly generous
responses to the last few village fund-raisers of 2007. The preChristmas lunch at the Old
School on Sunday 16‘” December was well attended and resulted in a profit of £149.70
for Old School funds.
Quite a large band of carol singers did the rounds on Saturday 23‘d December and were
warmly received at the houses at which they called (even though we clashed with the
final of Strictly Come Dancing - apologies to anyone whose viewing we interrupted!).
Carol singing raised £223.88 and this has been donated to SPECAL in Burford.
And the 2007 fund-raising finale was a New Year’s Eve Dinner and race night in the Old
School, for which we had a full house. It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening, raising
£580.01 for Old School funds, and the evening was topped off by a visit to the church to
ring the bells at midnight to celebrate the start of a new year.
Thank you to everyone who participated in any way in our 2007 fund-raising activities.
All the hard work has paid off because we have now been able to place the order for
double-glazing of the largest window in the hall. Since double-glazing all the smaller
windows the hall has become noticeably warmer, and the benefit should be even greater
once the final window is draught-proof.
At the time of writing the Old School Committee had not met to decide on events and
dates for 2008, with the exception of Open Gardens which has already been set for 15”’
June. A full list of future events will appear in next month’s edition of Parish Pump and it
will undoubtedly be another busy year because in 2008 we will be holding our biennial
fete, in addition to all the usual things. Anyone interested in helping with the fete, or who
has ideas for it, should please contact me, or any other member of the committee. We will
be delighted to hear from you.
Shirley Cuthbertson
2007 PARISH COUNCIL DATES
Wednesday 23rd January Shilton Wednesday 26th March Shilton
Wednesday 14th May Shilton Statutory Annual meeting at 6.30pm
followed by Annual Parish meeting at 7.30pm
Wednesday 25th June Shilton
Wednesday 6th August
Bradwell Village (in the Hobbies Room)
Wednesday 8th October Shilton Wednesday 3rd December Shilton
All meetings start at 7.30 unless otherwise stated. Katherine Robertson
WELCOME
A warm welcome to the new residents in Ladburn Lane, who are Jayne, Andy, Louis and
Archie. We hope you’ll be very happy among us.
KEEP FIT RESUMES
Sandie’s classes start again in the Old School on Thursday 10‘h January and thereafter
every Thursday from 7.00 to 8.00pm. £3.50 per session. Please join us if you can because
we are in dire need of a few more bodies if we are to continue these classes. Thanks.
HISTORY GROUP.
One of our members, Derek Cotterill, is producing a guide to all the churches in the
Broadshires benefice, and we will be privileged to have an illustrated talk from Derek on
the subject at our February meeting on Friday 8”’ February. As usual, visitors are
welcome.
In January we inspected our achives and we have decided that they ought now to include
an account (with pictures) of the July floods which had a devastating effect on the village.
We are circulating residents in the hope that they can give us their version of events on
that fateful day in July, even though for some of them the mere recollection will bring
back painful memories. If any readers wish to contribute, please get in touch with me on
01993 841403 or our chairman, Elizabeth Harfield, on 01993 843444.
Fred Robertson
BRADWELL VILLAGE (part of Shilton Parish)
CHRISTMAS CHEER
On one of the most dreary nights of the year we here at The Cotswold Home were all
looking forward to the carol singers coming that evening. David and his choir came, they
went around the home and sang to those who could not make it to the conservatory and
then made their way to all those waiting there. We sat in silence straining our ears for the
sound of singing coming towards us. In they came and we were treated to some beautiful
and traditional carols sung by a very talented group. Thank you all for coming and for
helping to making this Christmas a very happy one.
Annette and all the residents.
RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION
The hall is open to all residents on Friday evenings between 7.30 and 9.30pm. Short mat
bowls are available, card and board games, or come along for a sing-a-long and a chat.
Bring your own drinks and nibbles.
RACE NIGHT
On Friday 29th February at 7.30pm. For more details contact telephone 01993 823638.
Jane
VILLAGE COFFEE SHOP
The Coffee Shop is open on Friday in term time from 10.30am until 12.30pm in the
Village Hall selling hot and cold drinks and home-made cakes and savouries.
This is a splendid social focus for anyone with an hour or so to spare. For further details
telephone me on 01993 824801 (more volunteers are always required.)
Sharon Howat
VILLAGE STITCHERS
The next meeting is on Tuesday 12‘h February from 10.00am until 2.30pm. Visitors are
most welcome, at £2 for the day. The half-annual subscription is £10. Please bring along
your latest project to work on.
Drinks and biscuits are provided, but please bring a packed lunch. Telephone me on
01993 824475
Marion Ellis
UP, 1, 2, 3. DOWN, 1, 2, 3...
New 50+ Exercise Class on behalf of Adult Learning starting on Tuesday 26‘” February
at 9.30am in Bradwell Village Hall. Give me a ring on 01993 822781.
Sue
WESTWELL
St Mary’s
A ROTATING HOUSE
See letters on page 38 for an update.
MUSIC JUST DOWN THE ROAD
The Lenthall Concert on Wednesday 6” February at 7.30pm at Burford School will be
given by the Cappa Quartet, and will include Grieg’s String Quartet. Tickets are £10 at
the door. Call 01285 720154 for more
information.
Jan Campbell
THEY DON’T BUILD ‘EM LIKE THAT ANY MORE
0 n Wednesday 13‘’ February, at 2.00pm in Bradwell Village Hall (coffee 1.15 to
1.45pm), The Cotswold Antiques Study Group will host a talk entitled The English
Domestic Revival, dealing with country house architecture at the end of the 19”’ Century.
The speaker will be Christopher Rogers, formerly Head of Geography at Down House
School, Newbury, and lecturer for The National Trust.
Non-members are always welcome. The Study Group meets regularly and anyone
interested in future programmes or in joining should contact the Membership Secretary
on 01869 345332.
Ray Murray
WEST OX ARTS
West Ox Arts Gallery is on the first floor of Bampton Town Hall. The Gallery opening
hours are: Tuesday - Saturday: 10.30am ‘ 12.30pm and 2.00pm - 4.00pm & Sunday: 2.00pm - 4.00pm. Tel: 01993 850137 or
email: westoxarts@yahoo.co.uk.
FILKINS VILLAGE SHOP
Opening Hours
Monday
3.00 to S.OOpm
Tuesday
10.00am to 12noon ,& 3.00 to 5.00pm Wednesday Closed
Thursday
10.00am to 12.00noon & 2.00 to S.OOpm
Friday 2.00 to S.OOpm
Saturday
9.00am to 1.00pm & 3.00 to S.OOpm
Sunday
3.00 to S.OOpm
32
AT SHALL WE HAVE FOR DINNER?
There will be many who starved over Christmas because the article that should have told
everyone exactly what to eat over the holiday got lost in the aether between that paragon
of the pans, the Baster of the Broadshires, and me. Apologies all round, and thank
goodness we can now start eating again...
Tartiflette
February is foul, weather wise, so anything which cheers us up as winter drags on is a
good thing: and this recipe is a very good thing indeed. It is far greater than the sum of its
parts... potato, bacon, cheese and cream; something to do with the Reblochon, I suppose.
It is also ideal when friends come for supper as there are no last-minute things to do and
the traditional accompaniments ( charcuterie, cornichons and a green salad) require
merely arranging prettily.
I first ate this at the Swan at Southrop and thought it so delicious that I searched through
all my recipe books when I got home and experimented until I found the version most
like the original. This is it.
A word of warning, however. Do not even think of eating this unless you have expended
many hundreds of calories skiing, mucking out, double digging the garden, or any other
manual labour. It is seriously fattening. That said, a little goes a long way and even I, a
pig let’s face it, struggle with second helpings.
Ingredients (Serves 4 to 6)
50g unsalted butter
175g pancetta, cut into 1 cm lardons
lkg waxy potatoes, peeled and sliced to a 3mm thickness 250g Reblochon cheese, cubed
and any tough rind removed 568m1 carton double cream
Preheat oven to 150°C (gas mark 2). Grease a shallow baking dish with ¼ of the butter.
Heat a frying pan over a medium-high heat. Add the pancetta. Saute for about 5 minutes
until crisp and brown. Remove from pan and drain on kitchen paper. Arrange half the
potato slices in the baking dish, seasoning with salt and pepper. Sprinkle the pancetta
over then top with half the cheese. Arrange the remaining potato slices over the top,
seasoning again, then pour on the cream. You need to just cover the potatoes. Dot with
the remaining butter.
Bake for about 11/4 hours, or until the potatoes are tender. Then dot with the remaining
cheese and return to the oven until brown and bubbling (about 15 minutes). Remove from
the oven, cover with foil, and leave to rest for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.
I serve this with assorted salamis, parma ham, bresaola, bowls of cornichons or dill
pickles, cherry tomatoes and a green salad with a lemony dressing.
Angela Galione
POTTERING IN THE POTTING SHED
When old jack frost has threatened his worst
And fallen from branch to briar,
Then welcome the nights that double delights
In the light of a good going fire.
Good fortune attend each merry man’s friend
That does but as best as he may
To banish old wrong with a cup and a song,
And drive the cold winter away.
0 ... that’s Robin Williamson’s suggestion, but Anne Greenwood (made of sterner stu#)
suggests leaving the fireside, and getting out in the garden... n the very greyest of
winter’s days one certain way to banish those
blues brought on by not seeing enough daylight and sunshine is to get out into the garden
to look and smell at what’s happening. It’s surely no coincidence that many of the plants
that flower early in the year are vibrant yellow or pure white in addition to being scented.
They are a timely reminder of warmer days to come and the promise of clean white
sheets billowing on the washing line in the spring sunshine.
Snowdrops are an obvious choice to produce a showy display in the winter garden and a
good choice is Galanthus elwisii, which is a robust larger-growing snowdrop than the
better-known G. nivalis. An interesting addition to the winter garden is Abeliophyllum
distichum (white forsythia), which is native to Korea. It’s not easy to obtain, but worth
the effort. It not only provides multiple creamy-white flowers on its branches, but a
delicate scent as well.
For the larger garden, where height is required, the Prunus davidiana ‘Alba’ provides the
perfect solution. This Chinese peach produces pure-white
flowers on leafless branches and can flower anytime between January and March during
mild spells. In order to aid its early flowering potential it is best afforded some shelter
from the elements.
For a spectacular look on a crisp morning try planting Miscanthus sinensis. This grass
holds its seed heads over the winter to produce a wave like appearance to borders when
there has been a hard frost. To add colour and interest to walls or other structures the
Clematis cirrhosa var.balearica will flower from late winter into spring. It is happiest if
offered a sunny spot with
shelter and will reward the gardener by requiring no pruning other than needing to be
tidied up for size. The Christmas rose, (Helleborus niger) is the first flower to bloom and
produces beautiful white blossoms. There are approximately twenty different species,
some of which are deciduous and some evergreen. Once planted hellebores do not like to
be disturbed. They thrive in shade or semi shade in moist soil.
One of the most popular early flowering bulbs to produce a welcome splash of yellow is
the crocus (Iridaceae). Most crocus species need well-drained soil and a sunny position.
There are more than seventy varieties, including spring and autumn varieties. Colours are
very bright and vary. As well as yellow, there are white and different shades of purple.
They like well-drained soil and sun.
The Winter Aconite provides a bold sunshine yellow bloom and grows 5-8cm (2-6
inches). The bulbs will quickly form large colonies for masses of colour and may appear
as early as New Year’s Day. The perfect combination of the white and the ‘sunshine’ on
the same stem is an early-flowering, scented, multi-stemmed daffodil called Bridal
Crown, which has white petals and orange inner segments.
An instant cure for those winter blues could be right on your doorstep.
Anne Greenwood
NATURE NOTES
at a great morning to wake up to on Sunday 6‘” January. One of
those rare frosty mornings when everything is white with a blue sky
first thing. The conservatory roof was etched all over with frost in the form of branches
and reminded me of some of the windows seen in old churches called the Tree of Jesse.
The tracery is carved with foliage forming a tree springing from the recumbent figure of
Jesse on the sill. A good one that comes to mind is the North window in Dorchester
Abbey.
The birds have been quite active with the colder weather over the last couple of months.
On the 16‘” December I had a male brambling feeding on seed on the ground in my
garden. This is always a lovely sight in the winter. I don’t recall seeing one at all last
winter and this one only came once with a mixed bunch of finches on a cold grey frosty
day. On most days over the last two months I have had a black cap feeding from my
hanging feeders, sometimes a male with the black cap and sometimes the female with a
gingery brown cap
and occasionally the two together. I have a new feeder with an apple screwed into the
middle which hangs on a tree branch and this attracts the black caps which like to peck
away at it. They are quite partial to apples. I have also had blue tits feeding on the apple. I
didn’t realize they were fruit eaters but they seem to like a varied diet of fat, nuts and
seeds mainly. During one of the frosty days in December a fieldfare came on to apples I
had put on the ground and had a good feed. There were also a good lot of redwings on a
prolific cotoneaster tree in the vicarage next door for a week or two. They come every
year and this year they did not have to give battle with the mistle thrush which usually
takes jealous possession.
Another first for several years was a pair of siskin (left) feeding on peanuts on 27‘h
December but they were just passing through and have not appeared again. They can
usually be seen in the winter where there are alder trees and a good flock have taken up
residence in the alder trees on the east side of Witney lake, they like the seed in the cones
and their beaks seem to be somewhat special when it comes to winkling them out. I had
further sightings of a good flock of these neat little birds, again on alder trees when I
visited the Lee Valley early in December. They were high in the trees hanging off the
branches.
Also in the Lee Valley, a good winter bird area of lakes, river and canal, a flock of twelve
goosanders flew in and landed on a lake. The males with green glossed head and neck,
long red bill with a hooked end, black back and the rest of the body white. They are a
long streamlined magnificent bird. Even the female, which has a red brown head and
neck, often showing a crest, is lovely.
It will be rather difficult to view the starling (right)
flock at Otmoor nature reserve this year because the only access point is via Otmoor Lane
from Beckley and this will be closed from 14‘” January, probably until 14th April while
contractors carry out pipe work. I believe it may be open on Saturday afternoons and
Sundays but of course ideal viewing is weather dependent on a clear late afternoon and
dusk. The roost is approximately
50,000 at the moment although I haven’t managed a visit yet. However, at the Oxford end
of the A40 about 4.00pm a flock of thousands flew over on their
Way to Otmoor
This might be interesting, recently picked up on an email...
The European Starling invades North America: In the 1890s unconcerned about the
possible effect on local avian populations, Eugene Scheiffelin released one hundred
European Starlings in Central Park. Apparently, Scheiffelin wanted to introduce all the
birds in Shakespeare’s works to North America.
The introduction proved fruitful. Aggressively prolific, European Starling flourished at
the expense of native woodpeckers, great-crested flycatchers, common flickers, bluebirds
and other cavity-nesting species, whose nests it often appropriates.
By the 21” century, estimates of the North American starling population hover around
200 million In 2003, unnerved motorists called New Jersey radio stations to report
enormous flocks of small dark birds blanketing fields, rooftops and telephone poles. Most
callers unaware of Scheiffelin’s tribute to the Bard, cited Alfred Hitchcock’s horror
movie, The Birds. One prankster, knowing something was amiss, tried to imitate Tippin
Hedren’s scream.
Also picked up on an email today (7th January) an office worker in Walton Crescent,
Jericho, Oxford had a good view of a ring-necked parakeet outside his window and was
alerted by its characteristic squawks, flying around trees in the gardens of Walton
Crescent.
I do hope they do not colonize this area yet as they have done in large numbers in the
south east, particularly Surrey, Kent and Sussex where flocks of hundreds can be seen.
At the last count there were 4,000 breeding birds in the United Kingdom where they have
naturalised very well, living on fruit, berries, nuts and seeds. Their powerful bills can
damage expensive bird feeders and reduce feeding opportunities for native species while
also taking up nesting habitats of our native cavity nesters such as woodpeckers and
nuthatches.
Two days ago my first visit for this winter of two male yellow hammers taking seed from
the ground.
David Roberts
PUMP PRIZE CROSSWORD
Camelpong (aka Patrick Coleman, ace cruciverbalist ) has other more important things on
his mind at the moment, and so the Parish Pump crossword is in abeyance.
Our thoughts are with all of the Coleman family.
LETTERS
Letters are welcome on any subject. Just email them, post them or drop them in to Parish
Pump: all contact details are on the inside front cover of Parish Pump. Ed
Here we go round and round...
Last month we published news of plans submitted to build a rotating house in Holwell.
Robin Duniplace puts the plans in perspective.
Sir: In the December issue of Parish Pump, under Westwell News, Chris Fox wrote about
the recent Planning Application for a‘Rotating House’ in Westwell Parish, explaining that
it has been made under legislation designed to encourage innovative houses of
architectural merit to be built’, where otherwise permission might not be granted. Chris
expressed the possible response to such applications as a question: ‘Do we wish to...lift
the drawbridge now?’ In other words, should we as residents in rural communities,
respond to development proposals by automatically lifting the drawbridge against all
comers, or ‘NIMBYISM’, as this is sometimes described.
In Westwell the debate has been much wider-ranging than this and the letter from
Westwell Parish Meeting (WPM) to WODC about this Application included the
following comments:
In general terms, WPM accepted that at some stage in the foreseeable future the present
pig farm use of this site will probably cease and that it is therefore appropriate to consider
alternative uses for this site. The Meeting is therefore willing to engage with the
Applicant, who owns the site, and WODC, to discuss options. WPM felt that the best way
to deal with this would be to prepare a‘Parish Plan’ for the village and its surrounding
area, including Cuckoo Pen Farm. WPM agreed, based on formal votes, that this Parish
Plan should consider options for the Cuckoo Pen Farm site such as.
A small development of Affordable Housing and/or
Small workshop/craft units, and/or
A more conventional and less obtrusive family house, and/or Alternative agricultural,
horticultural or woodland use
WPM would welcome the opportunity to discuss these options in more detail with the
representatives of WODC.
There is no sign of drawbridge mentality in this thinking! Anyone interested in the debate
on these issues, and on this particular Application for a Rotating House, should look at
the Report to the Planning Sub-committee (meeting on 17‘” December) at
www.westoxon.gov.uk/files/reports/8313.pdf, where all the arguments for and against the
Application, are very well explained and analysed. The Planning Officer’s
recommendation to the Committee is that the Application for the Rotating House should
be refused.
Robin Dunipace Holwell
As Robin implies, in the meanwhile the decision on this particular application has been
taken by WODC, as Chris Fox reports:
Sir: Eventually this application was considered by the planning committee of the District
Council in December and was refused. To summarise, two main reasons for refusal were:
1 That it was not within the village envelope and there was no over-riding reason for the
house.
2 That the council were not so far convinced that the innovation and architectural merit
were of such a standard to allow such a house.
One feels that the applicant is sure to appeal, so there must be more to add in the months
to come.
Chris Fox Holwell
But the principles outlined by both Chris and Robin remain important: should we be
allowing or even encouraging innovation in terms of design and/or materials? And if so,
should this be on aesthetic grounds, ecological grounds, because in a (supposedly) freeish
country tyro house-builders should be less fettered, or just out of a spirit of joie de vivre?
On the whole I would like to see modern form in traditional materials, but all to often our
planners prefer it the other way round, and we get impossible flat stone arches which
need hidden steel] joists, and planks of timber slapped on to the outside of stone walls for
a half-timbered (and half-baked) look.
I think it a great pity that Burford, for instance, has nothing much worthwhile of the 20‘h
century inform, but plenty of 20‘h century pastiche of cobbled-together medievalism.
So long as we build in stone, and timber, and glass and lead, the materials would happily
hold the old and new forms together aesthetically, for after all old Oxford works (even
though there is 1000 years of style from classical to beyond-Gothic) because the stone for
it all comes from the same quarries. What do others think? Ed
The rain it falleth on the plain (and Kencot)
Sir: Those who read my article in the August 2007 issue of the Parish Pump will
appreciate that, due to editorial deadlines, it was written in early July before the deluge
later that month, when I measured an amount of 117mm (4.6 inches) in less than 12 hours
- my rain gauge had to be emptied several times that day.
This resulted in a total rainfall to the end of last September of 727mm (28.6 inches) and a
total for the whole of 2007 Of 991mm (39.0 inches). The previous highest annual total,
since I started in 1988 was 853mm (33.6inches)
in 2002. The lowest total in the last 20 years was 469mm (18.5 inches) in 1966 - less than
half last year’s figure, with an annual average now of 688mm (27.1 inches).
David Portergill Kencot
FURTHER THOUGHTS ON THE WEATHER
As so many in the benefice found, that innocuous sounding 4.6 inches of water on 20”
July translated into rushing torrents through our villages. As a matter of fact, 4.6 inches
of rainfall is 466 tons of water on every acre in the benefice, or (for instance) about
830,000 tons of water fell on that one day on the parish of Broughton Poggs-cum-Filkins
alone. No wonder we had problems.
David Portergill’s interesting review (above) looks at 2007’s rainfall against that over the
last 20 years. Taking a longer view, and looking forward to 2008, and backwards through
the centuries at our Great British Weather...
1608: Exceptionally severs frosts in January. The Thames froze over in London, and did
not thaw until 14‘” February. (Virginia Woolf was thinking of the Frost Fair held on the
frozen Thames when she wrote the Jacobean segment of Orlando. She records the
exploits of her ‘lovers dallying [on the ice] upon divans spread with sables’, which
sounds rather fun.)
1708: A great snowstorm on 24‘h January,
and then a cold, wet spring and summer
\ with frosts on 12‘h June. Heavy rain again
in September, with much flooding in the West Country.
1808: Much snow, in some places until 15‘” April. Very hot summer; 99F (37C) recorded
on 13‘” July in Suffolk. Heavy thunderstorms on 15‘” July, with hailstones said to be 6 to
7 inches in circumference in Somerset. Frosts began in Scotland in December and lasted
well into the new year.
1908: Cold start to the year: 18F (-7C) on 5”’ January. Snow in March and April, but
then a warm May and a hot June. The late summer and Autumn blew hot and wet in
turns. The winter was mild.
2008: Who knows...
ALL CHANGE AT BURFORD SCHOOL
Following the retirement of Patrick Sanders at Christmas, the Governor’s, staff and
students are pleased to welcome Kathy Haig as the new head teacher of Burford School.
Mrs Haig says, ‘Some of you may already know that I am a past pupil of Burford, I
studied for my ‘O’ and ‘A’ levels at the school from 1978 until 1982. I thoroughly
enjoyed my time here and was involved in many trips and activities including a
production of Patience.
‘I qualified as a Home Economics teacher and have taught in a variety of schools in
different parts of the Country, including Hull, Keighley and Preston before ending up at
Ellesmere Port where I was first deputy.’
I am extremely proud and grateful to be able to return to Burford School as Headteacher.
I promise you that I will work unceasingly for the good of the students who attend,
continuing to build on the excellent reputation Burford School so rightly enjoys.’
Mary Alcock
FAVOURITE CONNECTION OF THE MONTH
The Duke of Wellington’s elder brother’s wife’s first husband’s sister’s first husband’s
brother...
..* was Napoleon Bonaparte.
∎
Quite true.
Well I never!
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS (free for private ads)
Free to a good home: a Mothercare buggy and a John Lewis wooden playpen, both in
good condition, taking up too much room in Granny’s house. Telephone Liz Johnson on
01367 860846.
SOMETHING FOR THE WEEKEND, SIR?
Parish Pump needs a number of pages which divides exactly by four or the printer cannot
work his magic, and this means that we must at the very last minute fill a spare page.
Now let me see... How about a poem? No? OX then here instead is
something by the very late but great William Topaz McGonagall (of Tay Bridge
Disaster fame) but here enthusing on the power of God and a good horse when you’re.. ...
LOST ON THE PRAIRIE
In one of the States of America, some years ago,
There suddenly came on a violent storm of snow,
.Which was nearly the death of a party of workmen,
Who had finished their day’s work - nine or ten of them.
The distance was nearly twenty miles to their camp,
And with the thick falling snow their clothes felt damp,
As they set out for their camp, which was in a large grove,
And to reach it, manfully against the storm they strove.
The wind blew very hard, and the snow was falling fast,
Still, they plodded on, but felt a little downcast,
And the snow fell so fast they could scarcely see,
And they began to think they were lost on the wild prairie.
And they suddenly noticed marks of footsteps in the snow,
Which they found were their own tracks, as onward they did go, Then they knew they
were lost on the great prairie,
And what could they do in such a fearful extremity?
Then their hearts began to sink with woe In dread of having to pass the night in the snow,
And they cried, ‘Oh, God help us to find our way, Or else we are lost on the lonely
prairie.’
And while they stood shivering with the cold,
One of the party a particular horse did behold,
Which was known by the name of Old Jack,
So to take off his bridle they were not slack.
When the horse was let free he threw up his head and tail,
Which seemed to say, ‘Follow ms, and ye will not fail.
So come on, boys, and follow me,
And I’ll guide ye home safely.’
And they cried, ‘ Old Jack can show us the way,
So let’s follow his tracks without dismay’;
And with the falling snow they were chilled to the bone,
But the horse seemed to say, ‘I’ll show ye home.’
And at last they gave a shout of delight
When they saw their camp fire burning bright,
Which was to them a cheerful sight,
And they caressed Old Jack for guiding them home that night.
And they felt thankful to God for their safety,
And they danced around Old Jack with their hearts full of glee,
And Old Jack became a favourite from that day,
Because he saved them from being lost on the wild prairie.