EDITORIAL

.

When we think about the 12 churches in our benefice, we can not think other than about history. The buildings themselves have evolved over centuries as they have been adapted, as the villages they serve have changed. Filkins, of course, got a completely new church in the 1850's, as the village outgrew the mother-settlement of Broadwell.

But visit any of the older churches, and it is easy to imagine the zealous puritans crashing through the door in the 1640's insisting that all the `idolatrous' painted statues be taken away and smashed. Imagine too, the puffed-up 18`h century squires installing high box-pews away from draughts and the gaze of the parish-poor. And then in the 19`h century, came those (scathingly dubbed by William Morris as `scrapers') who ripped out the ancient plaster in the name of mock-medievalism. (Alas, poor Broadwell!)

But through all this mayhem runs a thread of continuity which binds us to our forefathers, and keeps the churches alive.

Every now and again, we are reminded that our settlements are older even than our oldest church, that our Christian tradition grew out of something that was here long before. Harry MacInnes told me that there was an archeological dig at Black Bourton, and I went over to see David Gilbert and Linzi Harvey of the John Moore Foundation carefully exposing evidence of a Saxon village beyond the cemetery. Here are the holes in which the wooden posts stood to support the roofs over the houses, there are pits in which these early settlers buried their waste, and over there is the well from which they drew their water. And all around are pottery shards, a belt buckle, and the other detritus they left behind.

Approach St Mary's, Black Bourton from the front, and the modern village recedes through the 20`h century War Graves, and the old graveyard towards the bulk of the medieval church. It is ancient, but the building techniques and the institutions that begot it are somehow explicable, within our understanding.

Step round the back to the Saxon settlement, however, and suddenly, you are . back in the 9`h century, to a time and a society which is alien, almost beyond our comprehension, and yet which led inexorably to the establishment of the Black Bourton we know, and, for that matter, to the VC10s roaring overhead.

Richard Martin

PARISH & BENEFICE SERVICES

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2nd July - Trinity III

10.30am Alvescot        Benefice Eucharist Service        HM, EJ, NUW

6.00pm Filkins  Evensong          NUW

6.00pm Shilton Youth Service   HM

9th July - Trinity IV

9.00am Alvescot          Parish Communion        HM

9.00am Broadwell        Holy Communion          NUW

9.00am Westwell/Holwell Combined Holy Communion EJ

10.30am Filkins            Parish Communion        EJ

10.30am Shilton           Parish Communion & Baptism  HM

(Children's Church)

11.00am L Faringdon   Matins  NUW

6.00pm B Bourton        Evensong          HM

6.00pm Kencot            Evensong          NUW

16`th July - Trinity V

9..00am B Bourton/Alvescot Combined Holy Communion NUW

9.00am Holwell Holy Communion HM

10.30am Broadwell/Kencot Combined Matins NUW

10.30am Kelmscott Family Communion HM

10.30am Langford Morning Prayer EJ

6.00pm B Poggs Evensong HM

6.00pm Westwell         Evensong          NUW

23rd July - Trinity VI

9.00am Kencot/Broadwell Combined Holy Communion (BCP) EJ(No sermon)

9.00am Shilton           Holy Communion          NUW

10.30am Alvescot/B Bourton Combined Family Communion     EJ

10.30am Filkins            Family Communion       NUW

11.00am L Faringdon   Parish Communion MP

6.00pm Holwell/Westwell Combined Evensong AP

6.00pm Langford          Evensong          NUW

6.00pm Filkins  Festival Service            EJ

30th July - Trinity VII

9.00am Langford          Holy Communion          NUW

10.30am Kencot          Parish Communion        NUW

10.30am Shilton           Parish Communion        EJ

6.00pm Alvescot          Evensong          EJ

6th August - Trinity VIII

10.30am B Bourton      Benefice Eucharist Service        EJ, NUW

6.00pm Shilton Evensong          NUW

 

There is also a Communion Service at Black Bourton every Wednesday at 10.00am

CELEBRANTS

AP       Arthur Pont      EJ       

Liz Johnson HM

Harry MacInnes MP

Martin Pierce NUW

Neville Usher-Wilson

BENEFICE SERVICES

All services are at 10.30am unless otherwise stated

6th August B Bourton 3`d September Westwell 5`h November Kelmscott 3`d December Langford

THE LECTIONARY

2nd July - Trinity III (G)

2 Samuel 1.1. 17-end   Psalm 130

2 Corinthimns `.7-end   Mark 5.21-end

9th July - Trinity IV (G)

2 Samuel 5.1-5, 9-10   Psalm 48

2 Corinthians 12.2-10   Mark 6.1-13

16`h July - Trinity V (G)

2 Samuel 6.1-5, 12b-19           Psalm 24

Ephesians 1.3-14          Mark 6.14-29

23`a July - Trinity VI (G)

2 Samuel 7.1-14a         Psalm 89.20-37

Ephesians 2.11-end      Mark 6.30-34, 53-end

30th July - Trinity VII (G)

2 Samuel 11.1-15         Psalm 14

Ephesians 3.14-end      John 6.1-21

 

CHILDREN'S CHURCH

Children's Church dates for remainder of 2006

All activities start at 10.15 in Shilton Old School. Some of these dates might be subject to change. Watch this space.

August (No service)     

1th November

10th September           

10th December (Christingle)

October (No service)

Thank you for supporting our Children's Church and we hope that many more of you would like to join. For more information or any queries please contact Harry McInnes (01993 845954) or me on 01993 847039.

Debs Price

 

THE RECTOR'S LETTER

Dear Friends

When I took up the post of Rector 18 months ago, I found that this came with a very large garden, which inevitably, after an interregnum between Vicars, was un-nurtured, had grown wild, and was smothered by ground elder. I have to say that when 1 first looked out at it, it seemed like a huge and impossible task to do anything with, and I didn't know where to begin. In many ways it was rather like looking at this huge Benefice with its twelve churches.

But as we have begun to settle in, I have begun to discover a new love of gardening. Not only have I found plants often hidden away, which have responded to care and nurture, but I have also experienced the wonder of planting new things which have provided a reminder of some important things.

Jesus constantly used the natural world around him to illustrate spiritual wisdom, a fact which should appeal in a country which prides itself on it's gardening skills. And at this time of year, it is particularly appropriate. There is something almost miraculous about the way in which green shoots spring up and suddenly colour bursts out from the buds which blossom virtually over night

But, this doesn't happen automatically. Every gardener knows that a great de; of work goes in to developing a garden of beauty. Weeds don't require any nurturing or encouragement to get going, and without constant attention the quickly take over. There is a parallel I think with human nature. The nurture of our inner life requires similar care to that of the most beautiful plants.

There was a fascinating TV programme last month - a sequel to the three par series of called The Monastery. It brought back the five men who had spent 40 days in the Benedictine monastery of Worth Abbey, to see how they had got on since they had been there. It was particularly interesting because for once it actually dealt with reality rather than unreality. The men spoke of the aftermath of their stay. Very candidly they told of what had happened to them. They had all experienced a profound change in their lives. They were conscious of God working in them through new things of beauty and life. As in a garden, the seed that had been planted was growing, but needed regular nurture to enable them to allow things of beauty rather than ugliness to grow in their lives. At the end of the programme, it was this that was the focus, with them talking about new shoots appearing in their lives such as a greater patience, a new kindness, and the gift of forgiveness.

The abbot reminded them that for the life of faith to develop and grow it needs nurturing and that the ideal place for this to happen is in some form of Christian community. We need one another to be able to grow. There is the constant temptation to suppose that we can manage on our own. We all need space alone but we flourish in community. We need encouragement to continue in worship and prayer and understanding of the extraordinary wisdom of the Christian faith. Certainly Christian faith is a personal and in once sense a very private affair and yet it only truly flourishes in community.

What delight it will bring if these villages are seen to have not only gardens which attract scores of visitors, but people whose lives bear fruit to what God can do with those who devote themselves to him.

Now is the season when amongst other things we celebrate our gardens, with a host of open gardens. Perhaps if you do or have already visited a garden this summer, you could ponder on the metaphor of your own spiritual growth and formation, as you pause to wonder at the beauty that is there.

Harry MacInnes

 

PRAYER AND BIBLE STUDY GROUP

People often say to me after a service that they found the Epistle reading difficult to understand, usually because we just read a passage out of context. So we have decided to use our next four meetings to take a more leisurely look at one of St. Paul's Epistles, the letter to the Philippians.

We meet on Monday evenings at 7.30pm, at Filkins Vicarage. The dates we have planned are: 24`" July & 21" August. You are most welcome to join us. For more details, please phone me on 01367 860846.

Liz Johnson

 

CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

We meet again on Wednesday 5th July for a short service at Kencot Church at 2.45pm, followed by a talk by the Rev Neville UsherWilson on some of his adventures in Africa, after which we will enjoy a cup of tea together at The Gardens, Kencot. All are welcome!

Marjorie Barstow

 

YOUTH WORSHIP

Youth Worship generally runs on the first Sunday of each month from 6.00 to 7.30pm at Shilton Church and Old School House. Please see the list of monthly services for details of any Youth Services. If anyone would like further information, do please telephone (01993 822479) email me (jane.b@btinternet.com).

Jane Brylewski

 

SHILTON BAPTIST CHAPEL

I first introduced my late husband Merv to Shilton Chapel in the early 1960's. We probably travelled from Stratton St Margaret on my 50cc Lambretta scooter; it could not have been Merv's Norton 600cc Dominator, as we had to sell that towards a deposit on our first home. Anyway, I digress, I had told Merv that we would have to `sing up' as the congregation would be small and would need help with the singing. How wrong could I have been! As now, everyone sang praises to our God with gusto.

My Uncle Osmond, to my surprise, had a fine singing voice. My Uncle Cyril told me, with some pride, that there were three organists: Elsie, Hilda and Joyce.

Merv hated the idea of leaving Ivybank but realised because of health reasons a move was inevitable. Although I still miss him very much I am glad his last home on earth was at Ivybank. His earthly remains may be in Shilton Churchyard but he is waiting that day in heaven when he will be singing with gusto a new song with his friends from Shilton Chapel.

Janet Whitfteld

 

FILKINS & DISTRICT ROYAL BRITISH LEGION

Next Committee Meeting

Please note the next Committee Meeting has been changed from 4`h July to Tuesday 5`h September at the Five Alls, Filkins.

Festival of Remembrance 2006

This year's Legion Festival of Remembrance in the Albert Hall will take place on Saturday 11`' November at 2.00pm and 7.00pm. Applications may be made by Legion members from lst` July. Full details may be obtained from me.

Jeremy Taylor

 

CHOIR VISIT TO GLEBE FARM, BLACK BOURTON

The Benefice Choir had a break from practising on 6`h June, as David and Sarah New kindly invited us to visit their farm. The weather was kind to us and we enjoyed a beautiful evening walking around their fields learning about modern organic farming methods.

The chocolate brown Sussex cows were very curious about this group of visitors, but the Berkshire pigs were far too busy enjoying wallowing in their muddy pool to take any notice of us. We were all enchanted by the piglets. John Cave provided the cabaret for the evening by getting the buggy stuck in a muddy rut but he joined in with the laughter as David pushed him and his passenger Armine on their way.

We returned back to base for home-produced sausages and pork (with fine crackling!) with salads and desserts made by choir members. Apart from a most enjoyable and informative evening, this was a lovely opportunity for the choir and partners to socialise.

We all send many thanks to David and Sarah for their hospitality.

Barbara Bristow

CAN YOU SPARE A COPPER, GUV?

Church of England finances might be tight, but are our exVicars really reduced to begging?

Phew! It's OK, Richard Harrison is picnicking (and no doubt orchestrating earnest conversation) with some of the boys at

Uppingham School.

Richard sends his best wishes to everyone.

 

 

FROM THE REGISTERS

HOLY BAPTISM        •

14th May Shilton Amelia Florence Weale & Samuel William Moore

28th May Filkins William Jenson Greenwood

28th May Alvescot Jamie Stewart Inglis

 

ROUND OUR VILLAGES

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The 15 villages that make up the 11 parishes in the Sbill C- Broadshire Benefice are lively places! Every month there are dozens of events organized by the many local organizations that flourish here.

- We are pleased to report on every event that has

. happened, and to publicise all those that are to come.

' We try to incorporate all the many contributions we receive, but please accept that we can not always advertise your particular event in the way you would like.

But do keep sending us all your Village News.

 

ALVESCOT

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St Peter's

St Peters SCHOOL

What a glorious start to Term 6 it has been. The sun has shone and the children have been able to take full advantage of our wonderful environment. The children in the Foundation Stage learnt about mini-beasts last term and not a day goes by without me being delivered a snail, cockroach or millipede! I am really becoming rather fond of these little creatures

and take great delight in witnessing the natural curiosity and sheer

wonderment of these young children in the world around.

The Beetle Drive in May was a great success and enjoyed enormously by children and grown-ups alike! Thank you to all those who attended and made the evening such a great success. There have been several requests for more Beetle Drives so watch this space!

Term 5 ended with a visit to the school by `Hand Up Theatre' who performed a show entitled `Seed to Plant' to the whole school. This was great fun and the actors were very impressed with the children's knowledge of growing plants.

The children are continuing to enjoy their tennis lessons with Alan Elbourne on the Multi-Use Games Area. Having attended some training, Miss Grantham has developed a new enthusiasm for cricket! She is awaiting the arrival of some children's cricket bats and hoping that the sunshine continues so that she can teach cricket on the playing field.

Our Footsteps training has begun once again and Mrs Turner is doing a wonderful job teaching the children about road safety. In order to fulfil the requirements of the

programme the children must learn to cross the road independently. We do not promote children crossing roads without an adult and emphasise to them that this is just practising a skill for later life.

Obviously, with the speed of the traffic passing through the village we are not able to practice on the main road however, many thanks to all the careful drivers, driving down Lower End. The children have been able to face the challenges and make decisions about their personal safety when crossing roads without their safety being compromised. Thank you to all those considerate drivers.

We are now all looking forward to the Partnership Music Event at Bampton Primary School and to performing our songs at the Village Fete.

We are very excited that the Bishop will now be visiting our school on 12`h July, to officially open our new building however we are looking forward to its completion by the end of June and being able to use our new area for the remainder of the Summer term.

The school led the St Peter's Family Service at the church together with the Revd. Usher-Wilson on Sunday 25`h June and our Sports' Day took place place on 29th June. Our annual family barbecue will be held on Friday 14`h July and there will be entertainment for the children. Tickets are now available from the school office.

Sam King

THE VILLAGE FETE

A huge thank you to all those who contributed to the success of our Village Fete, held in the Playing Field on Saturday 17`'' June. We just couldn't do it without you all - St. Peter's Infant School for the wonderful singing (and designing our posters), Fairford Silver Band, Magic Martin, the Bampton Fire Engine, all our stall holders, helpers, and of course the Fete Committee who put the whole thing together; not to mention the many people who came along and spent their money!

I will let you know how much money we raised in August's Parish Pump. Thank you once again to one and all.

Ann Cadogan

SHILL VALLEY WI

By the time you read this Alvescot Fete will have passed and I hope we will have sold all the cakes! We always have a fantastic response from WI members and school mums and a great day is had by all.

At our meeting on 5'h July we are looking forward to a talk and demonstration by Mrs Cross from the Straw Weavers' Guild who held a wonderful exhibition at the Witney Museum earlier in the year.

In August we are off to Friars Court for our outing to experience the wonderful hospitality of the Wilmer's and enjoy a trailer ride around the grounds.

Hopefully by now you will have received the schedule for our Autumn show to be held on 2" September in the village hall. We will be serving teas from 2.15pm so even if you are not entering please come along and take a look. We have a raffle with proceeds going to Witney Community Hospital.

If you require a schedule or more details about the WI please feel free to contact me on 01993 214107. We meet on the first Wednesday of each month in the Village Hall at 7.30pm. Visitors are always very welcome (£1.50 includes refreshments, raffle 20p).

Melanie Bryant

IN THE PINK COFFEE MORNING

We will be hosting a Coffee Morning on 14`h October, from 10.00am to 12 noon, in the Village Hall in aid of Breast Cancer research.

There will be various stalls and a raffle. If you wish to help or contribute in anyway please ring either Sandi Morris (01993 842135) or me (01993 844124).

We look forward to seeing you in October. Doreen Hart

 

BLACK BOURTON

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St Mary's

GRAND PLANT SALE

The Grand Plant Sale held on Saturday 20'h May in my garden at Bridge House, had a steady stream of visitors during the course of the morning. The weather wasn't brilliant but at least it was dry and everyone who came said how much they had enjoyed it.

There were two stalls selling plants for the bargain hunters and six professional nurseries selling a wonderful array of herbaceous and climbing plants, as well as shrubs. They all made the garden look very colourful and tantalising to the punters!

Two visitors had come all the way from Oxford on their tandem bicycle and stuffed their saddle bags with choice plants, only to come back in the evening, this time by car, as they had won a beautiful clematis plant in the raffle!

I would like to thank everyone who came and supported this event in aid of two charities: The NCCPG and the British Lung Foundation. I have sent the latter a

cheque for £300 bringing the total raised since last year to £5,600 for research into Fibrosing Alveolifis.

Liz Welch

CHORAL EVENSONG AT ST MARY'S

The congregation were in for a great treat on Sunday 14'h May, when the Benefice Choir under the baton of David New enhanced the Evensong Service with their beautiful singing. The Church was filled with uplifting praise.

We wish the Choir best wishes for their continued success and look forward to their next visit to the village.

Marjorie Worth & Doreen Hart

IN THE PINK COFFEE MORNING See entry under Alvescot

 

BROADWELL

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St Peter & St Paul's

ALTAR FLOWERS

 

2nd & 9th July   Vivien Godfrey

16th & 23nd July Susan Crawford 30'E' July     Patricia Broughton A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE

Our wild flower meadow is coming on, and we have hopes that it will look nice all summer. Many thanks to all who have worked there. These things do not happen by themselves!

June Goodenough

 

NEWS FROM BROADSHIRES PRE-SCHOOL

Good news! We were recently inspected by OFSTED and they gave us a glowing report.

.

The inspectors wrote:

`Children are extremely happy, fully engrossed and highly valued. They arrive with broad smiles and are greeted with enthusiasm and warmth. Children are creative, enthusiastic and animated            Children benefit greatly from staff enthusiasm and motivation which encourages them to try new experiences and practise developing skills. As a result of the sensitive care offered, children are happy, secure and confident.'

We're now all walking several inches taller! Well done to the staff, pre-school committee, parents and children - everyone contributed to our success.

Our topic this term is `Homes' and we will be looking at what makes a house a home; the different types of homes people live in; and also some special homes people live in around the world. We are looking forward to a visit from the local postman (but don't tell anybody because that's a secret!) and Sports Day, which St Christopher's School are kindly allowing us to hold on their playing field.

This is the final term of the year and we will soon be saying goodbye to those children who start school in September. We wish them all success in their new schools.

Alison Rodger

LUNCHTIME RECITAL

See page 30 for details of a recital involving Broadwell's Annabel Molyneaux

 

FILKINS & BROUGHTON POGGS

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St Peter's

FAREWELL...

On 15th June we said goodbye to Chris and Pen Dobson who have lived in Broughton Poggs since 1976, for most of that time at Broughton Hall and latterly at the Court House. Chris was the last Treasurer of Broughton Poggs Parish, and for over 20 years was Church Warden of the combined Broughton-cum-Filkins Parish.

Pen organised the opening of the gardens in the National Gardens Scheme for some years including their magnificent grounds at Broughton Hall. Chris and Pen will just be moving to Burford so hope to keep in touch with us all.

We wish them well for the future and thank them for the large contribution they have made to our Parish life.

... AND WELCOME

We also welcome Richard and Jenny Holroyd from Southrop to the Court House at Broughton Poggs.

FLOWER ROTA

2nd July            Flower Festival

9th & 16`h July            Mary Cover

23rd & 30`h July Barbara Bristow

CINEMA         .

The next film to be shown-in the Village Hall is `The Constant Gardener' on Tuesday 11`h July at 7.30. Admission on the door: £2.50

WI NEWS

At our meeting in May we discussed the two Resolutions proposed by the area WI. After a brief summary and explanation of the proposals the members were asked to give their opinions on the subjects and then vote. The first, that the WI propose the need for greater use of renewable energy be promoted by the Government, especially in new build houses and converted buildings, and that help by given to achieve this.

The second proposal that sports facilities be expanded to encourage and help the young, particularly in view of the forthcoming Olympic Games in London. Both resolutions were passed on a majority vote.

We were then delighted to welcome Mr Christopher Dobson who kindly entertained us with stories of his life as a scriptwriter. It proved a fascinating insight into a different world of actors, directors and producers, just a little different from the quiet life in Broughton Poggs! Chris is still writing after 40 years, we will all watch for his name on the credits in future.

August is the traditional month that we do not have an indoor meeting. Therefore this year we will be having our Summer Safari Supper around the village. Tickets will be on sale at the July meeting and we will be pleased to welcome any visitors to join us. The last one was very enjoyable so put the date, 16`h August, in your diaries now because tickets will be limited. If you are not a member please contact Allison Papworth or me if you would like tickets. If the weather is kind you will be able to leave your car and have a stroll round the village between courses.

Hilary Ward

ART @ FILKINS

We are orgainsing a summer club for 7- 14 year olds, with painting and drawing sessions exploring village landscapes. All art materials will be included, and also drinks, mid-morning snacks and a picnic lunch!

The sessions will run from 9.00am to 1.30pm in the Village Hall on 3`a, 4`h, 24`h and 25`h August. The cost is £20 per session. Space is limited, so book early. Sessions can be booked separately. For more information, email Diana.lock@btinternet.com or apply to us at: Pogle Cottage, Filkins, GL7 3JQ

Diana Lock &John Cooper

ST FILICA FESTIVAL

There are all sorts of exciting events taking place in the village as part of the Festival organized by the St Filica Society during July:

Saturday 1"

Duck Race at Broughton Mill - Buy a duck or two (£3 or £5 for 2)and see who swims the fastest. 2.30pm start

BBQ and Aunt Sally Competition at The Five Alls. Teams of four at £ 1 per person. 3.00pm BBQ

Saturday lst` & Sunday 2°a

Flower Festival in St Peter's Church

Sunday 2nd

Traditional English Afternoon Tea 3.00-5.30pm. Book on 01367 860306

Friday 7`h

Pie and Mash night at The Five Alls at 7.30 for 8.00pm. Book on 01367 860306

Saturday 8`h

Children's Cinema Afternoon 3.00pm-S.OOpm. Younger children's film (U cert) with tea.

7.00pm. Older children's film (12 Cert) with Hot Dogs

SWIMMING CLUB

We will also be holding a swimming Gala on Sunday 9th July at 2.00pm. Teams should be of six people, but if you don't have a team come on the day and we will arrange a team for you. Entrance fee £1 per person. BBQ, tea, coffee, soft drinks. Join us for a fun day. For more information, please telephone me on 01367 860027.

Ian Grey

FILKINS THEATRE PRESENTS...

We are celebrating our 20`h anniversary with a production of `The Queen Must Die' by David Farr on 14`h & 15`h July in the Village Hall.

The play is set on the eve of the Queen's Golden jubilee in 2002, and six teenagers are out to get Her Majesty. The play contains strong language.

[Golly! Ed/

Tickets are £6 (including a glass of wine or soft drink) and obtainable from the Post Office and Cotswold Woollen Weavers.

Sue Ashforth-Smith

ART EXHIBITION

Exhibitions at Cotswold Woollen Weavers.

BOWLS CLUB FLOWER SHOW & FETE

Don't forget that this is on Saturday 26th August at the Village Hall and Paddock opposite.

The Show opens at 2.00pm and schedules are available now from the Post Office, Five Alls, and Cotswold Woollen Weavers, or telephone me on 01367 850332.

There are show classes for all the family, so do pick up a schedule and have a go. The fete has lots of attractions and there will be refreshments and a produce auction... So see you all on the 26`h August.

Janet Young

ROSTER FOR VOLUNTARY CAR SERVICE TO SURGERIES Covering Filkins, Broughton Poggs, Broadwell Kencot Langford and L Faringdon

4h July            Mr J Moir        860031

25th July          Mrs B Bristow  860195

 6th July Mrs C Lauzier 860644

27th July Mrs K Morley 860420

11th July Mrs M Cover 860302

lst' August Lt Col J Barstow 860312

13th July Mr A Woodford 860319

 3rd August Mrs J Geake 860534

18th July Mrs C Woodford* 860319

8th August Mrs K Morley        860420

20th July Miss H Squire            860337           

(All codes 01367)

For hospital runs, or with any problems, contact me on 01367 860319.

The charges are: Local surgery runs       £2.00

Hospitals: Fairford & Witney    £6.00

Swindon & Cirencester £8.00

Oxford £10.00

At the JR parking charges have to be paid under the new parking arrangements, and these may have to be added to the bill. New volunteers are always welcome, particularly for hospital runs.

Tony Woodford

PARISH COUNCIL

The agenda of forthcoming meetings and minutes of the previous meeting are available in Filkins Bus shelter, Broughton Poggs notice board, Filkins Shop and Filkins Post Office. The main information file is located in the Coffee shop at the Cotswold Woollen Weavers but if you have any questions please contact me (the Parish Clerk) on 01367 860388.

Cris Hoad

Sunday 9`h

Swimming Gala and

BBQ at 2.00pm. Bring your own team or join one on the day. £1 per person. 2.00pm start

Friday 14th & Saturday 15th

Filkins Theatre 20`h anniversary production: `The Queen must die' by David Farr

Sunday 16th

Harp Concert at Goodfellows 4.00pm

Saturday 22nd

Street Party dancing to Deep Water. 60's party time. Come dressed in 60's gear if you dare! 8.00pm onwards

Sunday 23rd

Festival Service. 6.00pm.

For more information, see following items, or telephone me on 01367

860161 Mary Bohm

BONFIRES

One or two villagers have asked the Parish Council to remind everyone to think of the neighbours before lighting a bonfire. One person getting rid of rubbish, can mean another having a house full of smoke and smuts.

Also, do dispose of grass clippings on your own property, rather than dump it on other people's, or on public land.

 

HOLWELL

St Mary's

 

No news this month

 

KELMSCOTT

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St George's

CHURCH BRASS & FLOWERS Celia James

PROBLEMS AT SCHOOL

The village's first permanent school was built in 1872, and by the end of the 19`h century had about 40 pupils. Truancy, particularly to allow the children to do farm work, was a constant problem, and attendance rarely rose above half this number.

Conditions at first were not good, with reports of unsanitary toilets, and nearby pigsties, but by 1901 the school was `in excellent order', although some pupils were

still `backward' and `undisciplined'. Teachers rarely stayed long, and in 1929 the school was re-organised as a junior School only, with 18 pupils on the roll.

Kelmscott School finally closed in 1962, and the building became a private house.

Here is an excerpt frorm the Inspection Report of September 1922, which clearly shows some of the problems:

`The Headmistress is working steadily, and though her deafness leads to talkative habits among the children and renders it difficult closely to control the answering, the wholesome influence which she exerts renders the scholars willing and generally industrious in their work and maintains a satisfactory condition of the school. There are some dull children who progress slowly, but there are a number of good points about the work of the brighter ones, eg the written Composition of the senior girls and the recitation and alert response of many of the junior children. The choice of reading matter, apart from the school library, is rather stale and the books are worn, and this must partly account for an apparent lack of interest in their class reading book on the part of some of the senior children. The course of reading needs careful selection and handling.

`Among other points discussed with the Headmistress were the time-table, the History syllabus for the seniors, which is not substantial enough, the character of questions to be set in term examinations, the teaching of Needlework and the testing of private study.

`The Headmistress' scheme of work, weekly records and conduct of the term examinations are careful and painstaking.

`The new infants' Teacher is making a promising start. She appears keen and she handles the children brightly.

`It is pleasant to find that many of the children practise Country Dancing, that many took part in a performance of A Midsummer Night's Dream held in the village. Several belong to the Girl Guides.'

KENCOT

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St George's

RIDE OR STRIDE

Get your application forms for 9th September and start planning now.

Bill Gasson

CHURCH FLOWERS

lst` & 8th July   Stella Chapman

15th & 22nd July          Helen Squire

29th July & 5th August Ann Dossett-Davies

There are two spaces on the flower roster. If any kind newcomer to the village would be willing to help, we would all be most grateful. Please ring me on 01367 860312

Marjorie Barstow

LITTER PICKING

A rather belated thank you to those public spirited people who volunteered to clear all the roadside verges in the Parish of litter in the Spring before the grass grew.

John Barstow

SUNDAY PEACE

Newcomers to the village may not be aware that there is a longstanding custom in Kencot that we do not use lawnmowers or other noisy garden equipment on Sundays. We have to put up with too much noise on weekdays without having our ears assailed by noisy neighbours on Sundays.

John Barstow

 

LANGFORD

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St Matthew's

CHURCH FLOWERS

2nd July            Mrs C Johnston

9th & 16`h July            Mrs J Pitkin

23rd July          Mrs C Tinson

CHURCH CLEANING

Chancel & Porch Mrs M Webb

Nave    Mrs C Macdonald & Mrs J Pitkin

Brass    Mr & Mrs M Simpson

GARDENS OPEN DAY

All 24 gardens looked their best on Sunday 11`h June, with roses everywhere. Thank you to all our gardeners. Thanks also to everybody who helped make the day a success - as always the community spirit that exists in Langford

ST. MATTHEWS CHURCH

There will be an open Cricket Match at the village cricket pitch on Saturday 26" August. Everybody welcome to come and `have a go'. We are hoping to organise games for the children and possibly a Barbeque later. Anybody interested contact me on 01367 860081.

Jim Johnstone

 LANGFORD LADIES

At our June meeting we welcomed Gillian Higgins who specialises in sports massage and muscle manipulation therapy. Gillian gave us an insight into her life and as to what lead her into this field of work with humans and animals, (mainly dogs and horses). There were some demonstrations, two of our ladies were roasted (it was a hot evening), with the heat rheumatherm magnetic pillow. While others were given a deep massage.

The difference between a spa type massage and a sports massage is that the latter works on the deep tissue; it does not mean that it is a sports injury or that you do sports!

Our next meeting is for members only and will be on 13`h July when we are looking forward to having a picnic and ascending Faringdon Folly.

For more details telephone me on 01367 860514. Chrissie Tinson

WHIST

Come and join us for an evening playing Whist on Tuesday 6`h June. The start time is 7.30pm, and the entrance fee of £1 includes tea and biscuits. We play for fun with small prizes, everyone is welcome. Enquiries on 01993 852378.

ST CHRISTOPHER'S NEWS

First of all I would like to say a huge thank you to our recently re-formed parents association. We have a fantastic group of willing volunteers who organised a fundraising quiz night in June

to support our school. The        ? evening was a phenomenal success, raising over £415 for school funds to go towards

buying new furniture for the school library. Many thanks go to all the parents and friends of the school who gave their support on the night. Do look out for the next quiz night date and come along and join in the fun!

On a`fundraising note' we are all really proud of our children, who organised and ran a fantastic afternoon in support of `Water Aid' and `Save the

Children.' They raised over £400 to be shared between these two charities. Work done in school studying `Water' and `Africa' as part of the geography curriculum inspired the children to become involved with the charities and it was lovely to see them working so hard and so productively towards helping children less fortunate than themselves.

Preparations are at the moment well underway for our School Fete. We had to change the date for this after the last Parish Pump was published, so I do hope that people were able to come along on 16`h June. Again, the children took the initiative here and our School Council were instrumental in organising stalls and games for a fun afternoon.

By the time you read this, our annual Sports' Day will have taken place at the end of June. Hopefully the sun will have shone, as we intend this event to be a whole day for the family including a picnic lunch on the field. All sorts of Sporting talents are catered for as we have a group activities in the morning and more competitive races in the afternoon.

At the beginning of June the Year 6 children took part in `Kwik Cricket Tournament' which was enjoyed by all. They played amazingly well and managed 2nd place overall! Well done to all those who took part.

This year our Summer Performance by our KS2 children is `The Emerald Crown,' a play with and environmental message. This takes place at the end of term during `Healthy School Week.' We are spending the week celebrating our status as a`Healthy School' and learning even more about being a healthy lifestyle. Events include a dance workshop, swimming gala, cross country run, circuit training, the `Wild Waste Bus' and Broadshires Pre-School Sports' Day.

During the Summer Terms it is lovely to see how far the children have come since September. Our youngest Foundation children have grown hugely in confidence and are now happily playing alongside the older children at break and lunch times on the field rather than using just their own outside area. The older children, especially those in Year Six, suddenly stem to have grown and are even proudly boasting that they are taller than some of the staff?

They are nearly ready for the next step of moving into Secondary Education now and I feel that all the staff have played their part in supporting the children in being ready for this next adventure. We are looking forward to our end of term celebrations including the infamous Year Six leavers' assembly, where there are never many dry eyes in the house! It is always sad to say Goodbye but I'm sure that they are all ready to move on and will enjoy the challenges that Secondary Schools have to offer.

We are also saying Goodbye to Paul Cameron who is moving back up to Lancashire with his wife to be nearer to their families. Paul has made a huge contribution to St Christopher's over the past four years and he will be greatly missed.

We are all looking forward to September and the fresh challenges of the next academic year. May I take this opportunity to wish everyone a good summer break and we look forward to welcoming all pupils, both new and old, in September.

As always, please contact the school office with any queries on 01367 860318 or visit our website on www.st-christophers.oxon.sch.uk.

Sarah Nisbett

 

LITTLE FARINGDON

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St Margaret's

CHURCH FLOWERS

July Sylvia Griffiths

August Helen de Mauley & June Grimston

800TH ANNIVERSARY EVENTS

To celebrate the 800th anniversary of St Margaret's Church, the village will hold a series of events that will begin with an autumn soiree and culminate in a special church set-vice and village party in the summer.

The events planned so far include:

Sparkling Soiree           Saturday 30th September

A mixture of music, song and humour will be performed in the church by both local and far-ranging talents, followed by a little bubbly to top off the evening! A bar with wine and champagne will be available.

So put this date in your diary now and book your tickets early! Fliers with more details about the soiree will be distributed in July.

Bonfire Party    Friday 3rd November

This year's bonfire party will celebrate both the demise of Guy Fawkes and the dawn of our beautiful church!

Wine and Words During the winter

Throughout the winter months, a series of scintillating speakers will talk in the church on a variety of subjects to be announced.

After each evening's talk, all are invited to stay for a happy hour of wine-tasting ...strictly educational, of course!

 

SHILTON

.

Holy Rood

OLD SCHOOL NEWS

An exceedingly uneventful month as far as the Shilton Old School management committee is concerned, but at copy deadline date for this edition most Shiltonians were frantically busy getting their gardens up to scratch for our open day on 18`h June or helping to organise the event, a full report of which will appear in August's issue.

DIARY EVENTS

Other events planned for 2006, and for which details will follow later, include:

•           15th July Pig roast and picnic by the pond

•           12th August Fete

•           9th September Ride & Stride

•           1th October Harvest Supper

•           31st October Halloween: organised trick & treating for the children at 6.00pm, followed by party/race night/supper

•           November Quiz night (date to be confirmed)

Shirley Cuthbertson (Tel: 01993 842404)

 

GOING GREEN

We are a mother and son team starting a project in Shilton to encourage residents to do something about global warming and the environment.

The aim of the project is to encourage everyone in the village to measure their carbon and environmental footprints and take actions to reduce their impact on global warming and the environment.

We are intending to collect the footprint measures, and publish the aggregate result, and then compare the results with a similar exercise next year.

On Wednesday 215` June there was a meeting in the Shilton Old School to discuss the project and plan what's next.

If you'd like to start such a project in your village or for further information please telephone us on 01993 842145, or email sheila.white@onetel.com or mbaker@pobox.com

Sheila White & Michael Baker

PARISH COUNCIL

The Council meeting dates for 2006 are as follows:

Wednesday 9th August  Shilton Old School

Wednesday 11th October Bradwell Village

Wednesday 13th December, Shilton

KEEP FIT

Sandie holds classes every Thursday at 7.00pm in the Old School. It's only £3.00 per session, and all ages and abilities welcome.

HISTORY GROUP

We are now taking our summer break until our next meeting on Friday 8`h September.

Lorna Walker

 

BRADWELL VILLAGE (part of Shilton Parish)

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MOVIES ON THE MOVE

The next film will be Mrs. Henderson Presents on Thursday 6`h July at 7:30pm in Bradwell Village Hall. Entrance is £4, and bar and refreshments will be available. The doors open at 7.00pm.

GRAND PIG ROAST & BARBEQUE

This is on 15`h July from 5.00 to 11.00pm (and there will be a vegetarian option!) Food will be available from 6.30pm (strictly ticket only), and there will be a Bar and Entertainment. Tickets £10 Adult, £5 Child (5-12), Under 5 Free are available from us. Telephone 01993 824801 or 01993 824137.

Sharon &, Alan

COFFEE, ANYONE?

Bradwell Village Coffee Shop is open every Friday from 10:30am - 12:30pm in the Village Hall selling hot and cold drinks and home-made cakes and savouries. This a splendid social focus for everyone with an hour to spare.

A STITCH IN TIME...

Bradwell Village Stitchers meet on the second Tuesday of the month from 10.30am to 2.30pm in the Village Hall and welcome members from the surrounding area. If you are interested in needlecraft of any kind - embroidery, applique, lacemaking, beadwork, crochet, knitting, tatting, patchwork, quilting, needlepoint, goldwork, then you will be most welcome.

If you don't know what some of those things are, then come along and find out. Drinks and biscuits are provided, but please bring a packed lunch. The half-annual subscription is £10.          ,

 

WESTWELL

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St Mary's

ALL HANDS TO THE PUMP

Oh dear! June's Parish Pump suggested the village was languishing at the bottom of the list of donations to Parish Pump. Not any longer, for we have had a whip round and sent off a three-figure cheque to the treasurer. Thank you everyone.

Judy Hurd

 

NEWS FROM OUR DISTRICT COUNCILLOR

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Summer Activities for Young People

0nce again West Oxfordshire District Council is running a summer programme during the holidays for young people with a wide range of sports and activities. Details can be obtained from the Leisure Centres, Town Centre Shop or Visitor Information Centres. Bookings should be made with the Leisure Centre in Carterton. Tel: 01993 867486

Household waste and recycling

The way in which waste and recycling services develop over the next few years is vitally important. WODC is conducting a survey to ascertain residents' views and will be mailing a questionnaire to a sample of households across the district. If you receive one please do fill it in; if not why not go on-line to www.westoxon.gov.uk and complete one there. We need to know your views on collection and recycling methods! The closing date for completion of survey forms is 30`" June.

If you would like to discuss these or any other West Oxfordshire District Council matters, do telephone me on 01993 846033

Mary Neale

 

PLANNING APPLICATIONS

.

At a recent Planning Forum held by West Oxfordshire District Council, one of the salient points which emerged was the benefit of applicants/architects going along with a rough plan to discuss the application with a Planning Officer before a formal planning application is submitted, so that they can be advised on what is likely to be approved.

John Barstow

 

FILKINS VILLAGE SHOP

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Opening Hours

Monday           3.00 to 5.00pm

Tuesday           10.00am to 12noon & 3.00 to 5.00pm Wednesday Closed

Thursday          10.00am to 12.00noon & 3.00 to 6.00pm

Friday  3.00 to 6.00pm

Saturday           9.00am to 1.00pm & 3.00 to 6.00pm

Sunday 3.00 to 5.00pm

Could this be you?

We are pleased to announce that we are now in the financial position to be able to offer paid part-time employment in the shop.

The committee are delighted that the shop is doing well enough to afford this fantastic step at this early stage. This role will be key in supporting and developing the project alongside our invaluable network of hard working volunteers.

We are looking for someone who is prepared to commit to working approximately 9 hours per week. Rates will be negotiable depending on the candidate's previous experience. Ideally we are looking for someone with good customer service experience. Full training will be provided for the successful candidate.

Anyone wishing to apply for this exciting new role should do so in writing to the Chair of the Committee, Trish Poole. Please send a covering letter indicating your previous experience and suitability for the role to Trish at Stone House, Filkins, Lechlade, GL7 3JJ.

Closing date for applications is 16`" July 2006.

Don't forget...

 

You can get a wide range of items in the shop including:

•           Swimming pool membership

•           Tickets for St Filica events

•           Ice creams and ice-lollies

•           Cold drinks, sweets and crisps

•           A wide range of chilled and frozen food

•           Local pork, beef and trout

•           Locally sourced cheese

•           Wine and Beer

•           Handmade greetings cards

•           General groceries •

On a personal note...

For those of you who have been wondering, yes, I have had my baby! The timing was perfect as my blue shop uniform t-shirt was about to burst and I certainly didn't fit behind the till towards the end! I have put a picture on the notice board in the shop so

you can see my lovely little boy, Jacob, who was born on 13th May weighing 7lbs and loz.

As I write this he is already four weeks old and now weighs 7lbs 8oz and, for the moment he is fast asleep. Andrew and I would like to thank everyone for their warm wishes and lovely cards and presents. Jacob and I are already frequent visitors to the shop, so maybe we will see you there.

Helen Holden

HELP THE WITNESS SERVICE

.

One of the most crucial ways in which you may become involved with the court system is as a witness. If you see or hear a crime happening then you could be called upon to give evidence in court about it.

Many people feel frightened by the thought of this. Often people find the courtroom a bewildering and intimidating place, and feel terrified at the thought of taking the stand and facing cross-examination.

However, the Witness Service exists to smooth the process and make it less of an ordeal. Trained volunteers provide information about the court procedure, offer emotional support to the witness and even accompany them into the courtroom. All these services are free. We do not, however, discuss the evidence or give legal advice.

The Witness Service is there not just to help and reassure witnesses of crime, but also to offer support to victims of crime and their friends and family who are attending court. The Witness Service supports all prosecution and defense witnesses, but not defendants in their particular case

The Witness Service is currently looking for more volunteers to develop and strengthen the service in courts across the county. Volunteers can be young or old and from all backgrounds.

You don't need any prior experience of the criminal justice system as this will be covered in the comprehensive training that all volunteers must undertake. The next training programme begins in September. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer please ring me on 01865 751511 or email muriel.greenhalgh@victimsupportoxon.org.uk.

Muriel Greenhalgh

 

£600,000, BUT ONLY FOR THE YOUNG!

.

Do you know a group of young people that have an idea but no money to make it a reality? Are you aged 13 to 19 and want to do something fun with your mates in your village but have no idea where you can get the money?

Well today is your lucky day! The Government has given Oxfordshire Youth Service £600,000 to spend in grants this year to make sure that there are more "places to go and things to do, in your neighbourhood" for young people.

Best of all you have to be aged 13 to 19 to apply (that means no applications from adults are allowed) and all the people who decide if you get the money are aged between 13 and 19 too!

You can get an application form from www.spired.com or just phone the youth service on 01865 815166 and ask for the Youth Opportunities Fund application form. The deadline for applications is 30th August

POTTERING IN THE POTTING SHED

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This week tackles that everlasting problem for all gardeners... the Battle against Weeds.

However conscientious a gardener we consider ourselves to be, one enemy we all have in common is the weed. According to agricultural colleges a weed can be anything from various different mosses and algae to a variety of plants or even trees. According to Ian le Gros, Superintendent of the Queen Mother's garden at RHS Garden, Hyde Hall in Essex, it can be anything that grows, but is sited in a place where it is not wanted. The poet Emerson would have us believe that `a weed is a plant whose virtues are yet to be discovered'. Whether you agree with any of these definitions or not, it is useful to know your enemy. Are you dealing with an annual, a perennial or a biennial weed? Once you know what you're dealing with then there are several ways to eradicate the offenders.

Digging them up is an option as long as the seeds don't end up being scattered in the process - resulting in propagation! Weed killers need to be considered and local garden centres will know what is current and effective and whether to apply organic, selective or non-selective. For the organic gardener an organic herbicide may be the answer. Translocating weed killers are used on perennial weeds that have robust root systems or tap roots. They move through the plant causing damage and eventually death.

Some weeds e.g. Bindweed (right) may take more than one application, with the most effective treatment, being applied late in the summer, when the plants are in full flower. Whatever the weed killer remember to follow the maker's instructions. Wear good quality

vinyl gloves and use a dedicated watering can. Never decant the solution into a bottle not intended for weed killers, keep well away from children and pets and always wash hands well after applying any weed killers. For small treatments the ready-made

sprays are useful. Burning the visible part of the weed is effective for annual weeds and best carried out before flowering and seeding so as to tackle the problem of the ephemerals (those that complete more than one lifecycle in a year).

Generally, spring is the best time to clear the garden of weeds and when the weed seedlings emerge. (This is also an indicator that the soil is warm enough to sow flower seeds for outdoor displays). Mulching is a useful way to smother potential weeds and although some will still germinate there will be fewer to pull out. Where perennial weeds are a problem, sheeting can be a helpful tool in their destruction. Compost sacks cut open and reversed (so that the black side is uppermost) can then be covered with a mulch of choice. This should only be done as a last resort as this measure can be detrimental to the soil underneath.

On a positive note it's worth remembering, as you lie back in your hammock, eyes closed listening to the hum and the buzz of visiting wildlife, that many weeds are beneficial to their well-being.

Anne Greenwood

 

FILKINS & DISTRICT FILM CLUB

.

The inaugural screening was held, on Wednesday 28th June. If you would like to join the club and help decide on the programme of future screenings, do telephone me on 10367 860491 or email me on pump@naturalbest_co.uk

Richard Martin

 

HARDY AMIES AT BUSCOT PARK

.

There will be a small exhibition of couture evening dresses designed over the past thirty years by Hardy Amies, for the present Lady Faringdon, to celebrate the sixtieth anniversary of the founding of Hardy Amies Limited in 1946. The dresses are on display in the Normanton Room on the first floor of Buscot House until the end of August.

 

 

MUSICAL GAIETY AT BUSCOT

.

'At the Drop of a Hippopotomus ', an evening of Flanders and Swann will be held in the delightful Buscot Park Theatre on Saturday 22°d July and Sunday 23`d July.

Tim Fitzhigham and Duncan Walsh Atkins pay homage to the masters of musical comedy in an evening of the wittiest songs ever written.

Tickets at £25 include entry to the Park from 6.30 pm, Madeira Reception, (overlooking the stunning water garden designed by Harold Peto), and a programme. A seventy-five minute interval will allow you to enjoy a picnic in the wonderful pleasure, gardens.

Tickets are available form The Estate Office, Buscot Park, Faringdon Oxfordshire SN7 5BU. Telephone 01367 240786.

David Freeman

MUSIC IN THE HIGH STREET

.

If you are shopping in Witney on Thursday 20`h July, why not rest an hour in the Methodist Church in Witney High Steet between 1.30 and 2.30pm and listen to some lovely music? Entry is free, and the coffee bar is open.

Annabel Molyneaux from Broadwell will be singing, accompanied by Peter Cowdrey, and there will be some guest performers too.

June Goodenough

 

WEST OX ARTS

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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.

: 11th June - 16th July

 George Fox -'Moments in Time' A solo show of exceptional work by experienced Wantage based professional aretist working mostly in oil and acrylic. George's current work reflects his recurring interest in the concept of time, the relationship between man and nature, the seasons and the process of continuous change. Informal talk as an introduction to the exhibition by George Fox at 11.30am Saturday 17`h June.

25th July - 28th August

Cotton Club Quilters: The second exhibition at West Ox Arts by this local group of quilters. View work produced in The Cotton Club's quilting classes from complete beginners to very experienced and talented quilters. For details on joining the quilting class see Linda Kerswill at The Cotton

Club, Bridge Street, Bampton.

 

NATURE NOTES

.

Summer is here, and this month David celebrates with a wet week in Cornwall...

Summer has come suddenly this year and the swifts are screaming around in a display of formation flying better than any Red Arrows. Surely they must do it because they enjoy it? What other reason could there be? Of course I picked the wrong week to go down to Cornwall, it was wet, windy and misty with the odd sunny spell thrown in

on one day. However, the colours in the hedgerows made up for it with red campions and bluebells at their best. A coastal plant in abundance there was, Alexanders (right), a tall erect member of the parsley family with masses of greenish-yellow flowers.

I see that its name derives from the fact that it is a herb of

Macedonia, the country of Alexander the Great. The whole of the plant is edible. The black seeds were sold in the 17th century as Macedonian parsley seeds and had a variety of herbal uses including the power to cure flatulence and snake bites! The dark green leaves can be made into a white sauce, the young stems can be eaten like asparagus, the flower buds can be used in salads and the rnntc mav }ia rnnl-P!l ac a

c„hstitute for parsnips.

One of my favourite places there is an area of sheer cliff covered in shelves for nesting kittiwakes (left). They were in the process of digging up grass and roots and building their cup shaped nests

wherever they could find a space, very often within pecking distance of their neighbour. Among the several hundred kittiwake nests were a small number of razorbills and that very smart penguin like bird, the guillemot.

Neither of these birds makes a nest but lays a single egg directly on to the rock surface. The guillemot's egg is pyriform shape to help stop it rolling off. Nesting above all these birds are those masterful flyers the fulmars which again lay one egg in a bare rock or earth depression with no nesting material used. Fulmars are very long lived birds, living up to fifty years and only usually finding their mate for life after about ten years.

It was nice to come across birds down there which have become very scarce in recent years because of changed farming practices but are very gradually making a come

back; the corn bunting. This can be heard giving its "jangly key" song from the top of a bush. I heard and saw two singing males on the north coast of Cornwall.

Yesterday (7`h June) less than a quarter of a mile from home I came across at least two more singing males, singing for all they were worth on a perfect summer evening across the fields together with good numbers of singing skylarks. Also two days ago the cuckoo was still calling out at Hailey.

David Roberts

 

COOKING WITH KATE

.

July is the month for raspberries. Raspberries do not travel too well so be sure to use them as soon as they are picked. In fact, they are best eaten straight from the cane on a

sunny day!

It always surprises me that raspberries that are sweet in the garden seem to need sugar added in the bowl. Although classically accompanied by cream or ice cream, the the extra sweetness can also be added with meringue, and Eton mess is a mixture of raspberries

whipped cream and crushed meringue. Traditionally served at Eton College on the 4`'' June. Some people say that strawberries are used instead of raspberries both are delicious but raspberries are best.

Another fruit that goes well with raspberries is pineapple. I make a pudding from a mixture of super sweet pineapple chopped and mixed`with raspberries and served with cream or ice cream.

Should you be making a pavlova and the worst happens a broken meringue base, the following recipe solves the problem.

Snow Queen

300m] (1/2 pint) double cream, 30m1 (2 tbsp) brandy

15m1 (ltbsp) caster sugar

100g (4oz) meringue roughly broken

Method

Whisk the cream until stiff, and stir in the brandy and caster sugar. Then fold in the roughly broken meringue, pour the mixture into a lightly oiled 600m1 (1 pint) pudding basin or mould, cover, seal and freeze.

To serve, un-wrap and un-mould. Place on a serving dish, and thaw for 15 minutes in refrigerator,, decorate with raspberries or serve with sauce melba.

Sauce Melba

45m1 (3tbsp) redcurrant jelly

175g (6oz) frozen or fresh raspberries 50g (2 oz) sugar

15m1 (2 tbsp) hot water lOml (2 tsp) cornflower 15 ml (1 tbsp) cold water Squeeze of lemon juice

Method

Place the jelly, raspberries, and hot water in a saucepan. Blend the cornflour with cold water into a smooth paste, and stir into the sauce. Bring to the boil, stirring constantly, and simmer for two minutes. Remove from the heat, allow to cool slightly and rub the sauce through a fine sieve, adding lemon juice to taste. This can be frozen.

Kate Morley

 

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

Calling all Trinders

If you can help Colin Trinder, do let Parish Pump know.

Sir: I recently visited Little Faringdon and Langford (for the first time) in relation to my research in the family name Trinder and purchased your magazine `Parish Pump' at St. Margarets Church, hence my contacting you.

I am a direct descendant of Elizabeth Trinder, whom according to her death certificate was married to David Trinder who had died before the 1841 census. The family were present in Little Faringdon up to 1861 and moved to nearby villages. I noted that there were a number of Trinders recorded on the burial plan in St Margaret's church and wondered if you or any Parish Pump readers had any information on this family name and whether or not the name is

still present in the area.

I was pleasantly surprised on my visit to St. Matthew's- Church in Langford, where a lot of my family were married, of the two inscribed slate slabs set in the floor of the rear centre aisle. They record the death of a Mr Stephen Trindor/Trinder and his wife

Martha, again I would very much appreciate any information that anyone has on these two. Colin Trinder

Ogmore by Sea, Vale of Glamorgan

 

Living dangerously

Tongue in cheek, the inimitable Sandy Saunders tosses down an ancient gauntlet...

Sir: It was a convivial lunch at the Lunch Club at the Five Alls in Filkins on 25`h May. There were about 12 ladies, but only two men. Now I like living dangerously. When I could get a word in edgeways, I threw a cat among the pigeons by announcing that males are superior to females in intellect. And I said I could prove it by argument.

After the stunned silence, I was able to say that as a means of measurement our society progressed from the early stone-age era to what we now call civilization. And this advancement was brought about by inventions, such as the telephone, the petrol engine, the jet engine, the world-wide internet... The list is endless, and mostly the work of males. No, Madame Curie did not invent anything, she discovered things (not that I'm disparaging discoveries.)

The only thing I need to know now is: who let down the tyres on my disability scooter? And who wrote those rude words in blood on the wall?

Sandy Saunders Filkins

 

THE GREAT DROUGHT OF 1835

.

There has been much in the news of late about water shortage in some parts of the country. Here is a truly terrible tale describing what water shortage can really mean. The story is told by Charlie Farmer, who lived in Filkins and heard the old men of the village talking about the Great Drought of 1835.

Sarah Dutnie, who transcribed this splendid piece is Charlie's greatgrand niece (and also, by the by, Laura Farmer's niece.)

It was one of the most disastrous seasons ever known. No rain falling for several months and water being sold at 6d a bucket in some places. Thomas Clack, one of the oldest men in Filkins said he remembered it well, and often talked about this trying time.

Most of the land in the neighbourhood being stone-brash and gravel, it suffered badly. There were hundreds of acres of spring corn that never germinated properly. Thomas

Clack said he should never forget that summer. No grass, no roots and there was much time and labour spent in getting water for the sheep and cattle.

On going to the farm for orders in the morning, the men were told to take choppers, and cut limbs and poles off the ash and withy trees for the cattle to eat. And there was scarcely a tree in Filkins but what had been used for this purpose.

Hay was very scarce and almost unobtainable, while straw made several pounds a load. Any rubbish in ditches was carefully gathered, and roadsides were all cut and used as fodder.

That year's harvest was finished in July, with crops so light that women were employed to gather it up with handrakes.

It is said that Farmer Thickens sat on the bank at Broughton Crossroads, and saw the last load of corn carried the last day of July. He made the remark that `such a thing he would never see again.'

A large clover field in Lechlade Road, when cut and raked, only produced three small loads of hay.

It is said that Farmer Tombs of Lowere farm, Langford was ruined, and never farmed again.

Before the winter was over, some of the roofs were taken off, and the thatch used for litter. At Christmas there was hardly any land ploughed for wheat, so hard and dry was the ground.

Thomas Clack said he remembered his mother sending him to the Mill Brook for water to cook the Christmas dinner as many of the wells in Filkins were dry.

One authority states that on the Berkshire Downs scores of sheep's skeletons could be seen, these sheep having perished through lack of food and water.

The following year was much better however, and so those who could pull through saw better times.

From the memoirs of Charlie j Farmer

Charlie Farmer reports vividly on the terrifying drought in West Oxfordshire, but it must have been a very localized one, for the rainfall figures for England & Wales generally suggest that 1835 was an average year, with 900mm. Since 1766, the minimum rainfall has been in 1788, with 612mm, and the maximum in 1872 with 1285.mm.

Regional variations do, of course, occur. 2002, for instance, had the 10' highest average rainfall, across England and Wales, at 1118mm. But it varied regionally from 708mm in East Anglia to 1628mm in Wales.

If anyone has any further information about The Great Drought of 1835, do let us know. Ed

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