The summer season of Fetes and Open Gardens is upon us and our own gardens begin to overwhelm us with their profusion of growth.
Our thanks to The Post Office and The Firs for handling our newsletters and receiving your contributions. We received a total of £47.61 and some stamps. Thank you, also, class 6 of the Primary school, and particularly, Ben Carpenter, for producing a cover for us.
We thank Don Cornelius who very kindly proof read this Newsletter for us.
As yet, we have no news concerning the library facilities.
We have now exhausted our supply of cover pictures and would be very pleased to receive some more for future issues. Please get drawing!!
Would anyone be prepared to scan some adverts for the Newsletter?
Sadly we note the death of Mr Colin Stockford and of Mrs Ivy Moss who had spent much of her life in Hook Norton. We send our condolences to their families and friends.
LIZ PICKERING: 737434
BARBARA HICKS: 737017
ADVERTISING: DIANA BARBER 737428
April saw the annual Parish Meeting, which was badly attended, and the usual monthly Parish Council Meeting.
The new skateboard equipment was now in place and was a great success, the only problem being that of litter scattered about. It was agreed to place a bin close by. The new netball pitch had been marked out and this was also being used for basketball and needed a backboard. This would cost £1,000 from a regular equipment supplier but Mr Salter kindly offered to make one which he felt would cost no more than £50. This very generous offer was accepted.
The Clerk suggested writing to the County Solicitor to get Tay Homes to finish the landscaped area as this was part of their contract.
The dog bins were not being emptied as regularly as the Parish Council had contracted for. It was very pleasing to see that dog owners were using the bins on a regular basis. Cherwell had now someone new in charge and it was hoped that matters would improve.
The grass cutting contractor had already made two cuts and the village was looking much tidier as a result. Could the remaining shrubs on Rectory Road amenity area be moved as they were making slow progress?
Litter outside the store in the centre of the village seemed to be worse. A litter pick is organised. The Youth Club had asked for a wheelie bin without success. Could the Parish Council take this up with Cherwell?
Would the person who dumps rubbish on the verge just past the school please use their wheelie bin or the skip?
The Annual Parish Council Meeting was held on May 12th. Committees were formed and Mr Ray Jelf was voted in as Chairman with retiring Chairman Mr D Collins taking the position of Vice-Chairman.
The landscaped area was making progress and the Youth Club had now got their wheelie bin, Mrs Salter reported. The Youth Club had new leaders and a growing membership; what they lacked was funding and a CD player in particular. The Parish Council agreed that money had been spent on the play area for the younger children and that they would fund the purchase of a CD player up to the amount of £150.
Cornhill Insurance had accepted one of the quotes for replacing the Hall door that had been vandalised. The Hall needed some attention. Upgrading the present ladies toilets would cost about £5,800, building on new toilets including a toilet for the disabled would cost about £18,000. The Clerk was asked to investigate whether there was any grant money available.
It was agreed that money should be set aside for Grit Bins to be in place before next winter and costs would be investigated.
Litter was a constant problem throughout the village. Could residents pick up litter outside their houses? The judging of the Best Kept Village is imminent.
Speeding on Sibford Road past the school is a problem and The Clerk is to ask the police to monitor the situation so BEWARE.
The skips have proved a great success over the years and have provided people with a facility for disposing of their rubbish. However, larger items such as furniture, old appliances, etc., can be picked up free of charge by Cherwell District Council. Tel: 01295-252535 Ext 4390
As last year Ian and Elaine Coles will be joining us to run the children's holiday club which will take place at the Baptist Church from 11th to 15th August. We welcome all primary school age children from Hook Norton and surrounding villages.
Before that we shall have a stand at the Rural Fayre
on the 6th July - look out for our tent.
The gardening year is progressing at a pace. Many members entered the Spring Flower Show with great enthusiasm despite the daffodils and shrubs flowering very early. It nearly gave us all heart attacks, thinking there would not be any left for the show. All classes were well filled, with the judges all agreeing that the entries were of a very high standard. Some new names will soon be engraved on the challenge cups, which makes the show even more exciting. The main prize winners were:- Harry Pargeter Cup - man with greatest number of points won at this Show - was won by Tim Burchell; Bill Clarke Cup - lady with greatest number of points - was won by Maggie Mair; Willis Cup - child with greatest number of points - was won by Rachel Hope; Redlands Cup - highest number of points gained in the Homecraft Section - was won by Hazel Hope and the Floral Art Cup - highest number of points gained in the Floral Arts Section - was won by Ann Faulkner. Two Certificates of Excellence were awarded; to Mr George White for Horticultural Excellence and to Mrs Beryl White for Best in Show in the Flower Arranging Section. We hope even more members will be adventurous by entering the Autumn Show on 19th September, again in the Memorial Hall.
By the time you read this, our next evening meeting with Purely Plants will have taken place and no doubt enjoyed by many. The coach for Gardener's World Exhibition is quickly filling up so if you would like to come please let us have your names now! As you probably know this show has been taken over by the Royal Horticultural Society so everything there will be par excellence. The coach will leave the Sun Inn at 9am on Saturday 14th June, £15 per head, reductions for children, entry included. See posters or 'phone 730283 or 737894 for more details.
Our July visit is to a Mediterranean type garden in Oxford
and takes place as a car sharing evening on 16th July leaving Hook Norton
at about 6.30pm.. This promises to be a very interesting garden, so do
come.
The Club has started its season reasonably well - played three, one rained off, lost one and won one. A very enjoyable Social Evening was held, during which prizes were presented. The Green is available for practice on Wednesday evenings.
We hope many members will take this opportunity to improve their game. Our great need is new members!!!
If anyone reading this is interested in this most enjoyable
and friendly game just ring 737464 and we can show you the ropes.
Good news indeed! Thanks to a group of enthusiastic Mums, Community Mornings for Mums, Dads, Carers and small children are running again. They now take place at the Study Centre on most Wednesday mornings but do check dates with the School Secretary if you do not have a programme. Please take note of our plea for toys, games, etc., and as it is no longer possible to share the Nursery facilities, these are badly needed.
School Vouchers
The issue of vouchers for school equipment by Sainsburys and Tescos will cease shortly. They have been used in the past to provide valuable computer and nursery equipment. If you still have any vouchers the school will be pleased to receive them.
Reminder
The school playground and equipment is not available for play in 'out-of-school' hours. The village has a very well equipped public play area for children and families.
Summer Fete
The school will be holding a Summer Fete on Saturday 21 June from 2pm. There will be country dancing, jousting, and stalls among the many attractions. Please come along and join us.
Friends of Hook Norton School - Auction of Promises
FOHNS are pleased to announce that the Auction held at the school on Saturday 17th May raised £2495 from the Sale of Promises. With the other income generated the final total for the evening is estimated to be £2750.
Sincere thanks to everyone who generously supported this
event.
Time spent observing wildlife in the garden can bring much pleasure and a few surprises!
The post-general election analysis was interrupted for Sue Bradshaw when she spotted a badger in her garden early on 2nd May. I appreciated her phone call - but appeared to have arrived too late - only to discover the bewildered badger ambling back up Whittons Close. The animal, which appeared to have a slight wound was confined in a driveway.
An appreciative audience - many still in nightwear and dressing gowns - gathered to watch our local veterinary service, and then the RSPCA, effect a rescue.
A few bird notes came in, including a brambling seen by Teddy and Gillian Liddell in their garden; a great spotted woodpecker in Ironstone Hollow seen by William Curtis, and a male cuckoo seen in flight by Janet Collins.
Following an early report on 13th April, two or three male cuckoos have become very active around the village.
Most of the Spring migrants were in by 15th May with swifts and house martins arriving later than usual because of the long spell of colder, showery weather. Among the warblers both whitethroats and lesser whitethroats appear to be settling in to breed in hedgerows around the village.
The sunny spells in April saw temperatures soar. Many
birds fledged early broods, especially blackbird and song thrushes. At
least eight species of butterfly were on the wing including some brilliant
male orange tips and lots of holly blues - back after a lean couple of
years. Please keep sending me your sightings - help can be given with identification.
Steve Holliday, 8 Whittons Close. 737038
This is the last edition of the Newsletter before this year's Rural Fayre. The Fayre will be preceded on the evening of 5th July by a bigger and better concert than ever before. So get your tickets early to avoid disappointment: they can be bought at
The Sun, The Bell, The Gate Hangs High and The Masons Arms
Don't forget to buy (from any of the pubs named above) your high quality rugby shirt embroidered with the concert logo. If you want any more information contact Pat Groome at Chapel House, Chapel Street (01608 730396)
The Rural Fayre will be a feast of interest and enjoyment. There will be things to see and do for both adults and children. Gus Dermody of BBC Television's Our Man and his Dog will be there with his dogs and ducks again. There will be the National Panasonic free fall parachute team (weather permitting), helicopter rides, demonstration of usual crafts, an expanded shire horses and working bygones section, children's section, bowling for a pig and many other activities.
We are also repeating our very successful cowpat competition, so please buy a square for £1 and you may win £200! The competition is currently at The Pear Tree, but will move to other venues, so there will be plenty of opportunity to buy a square.
There will also be a crèche available.
As always, refreshments and the Beer Tent will be on site. This year we are offering a special reduced price FAMILY ENTRY TICKET, so please come, bring the family and enjoy yourselves.
Remember most of the proceeds are distributed to local organisations and some to national charities.
Our Race Night was held at The Sun on 26th April and was huge success. Over £350 was raised for Charitable Association Funds. Many thanks to Scott Orchard and his team for all the hard work they put in to making the evening so successful and enjoyable.
Finally, if you are willing to help in any way, however
small, please phone me. This event would not take place if people in the
community were not willing to give their time and effort for the benefit
of all. Mike Barlow, Chairman, 01608 737336
A good quality pair of spectacles has been found in the
village. Might they be yours? If so, please ring 730285.
No Second Day for now.
Lack of funding from Oxfordshire County Council's Social Services Department has dashed the Care Group's hopes of opening the Day Centre on a second day. A meeting of the finance section of the Hook Norton Care Group was held at the chairman's home attended by Wendy Hillary of the Social Services Department. She has been actively involved in the preparatory work for a second day but unfortunately she was unable to hold out hope of further finance in the foreseeable future.
Chairman Lee Morgan said it was most disappointing as the committee had spent so much time and effort over several months to cost and arrange for a second day because there was a real need for it. "We shall continue to try and persuade Social Services to provide extra funding in the future," she said, thanking all the volunteers and drivers for their continued work and enthusiastic support of the Day Centre.
Keith Wood, Care Group Secretary 737443
Gill Holliday and Miranda Riccardo are opening the
HOOK NORTON SATURDAY MUSIC SCHOOL
in September 1997 for anyone who plays or has lessons in any woodwind (including recorder), string or brass instrument. Sessions will be based on ensemble playing. More details and registration form available.
Tel: Gill HN 737038 - Miranda HN 737175
Twenty four calls were answered during the two months to the 19th May compared with twenty two calls during the previous two-month period. Three chimney fires were answered, three house or appliance fires, one warehouse fire, one petrol leak from a road traffic accident, one tree on fire, one fire near a garage, one alarm and one re-directed call. Children caused a lockout in the village; there was flooding in a house which damaged the electrics, one call to Chipping Norton and there were eight standbys for Banbury.
On several occasions only three firefighters were available to turn out to calls resulting in extra appliances having to be used for back-up.
This valuable service needs to be maintained. To do
this, more firefighters are needed. If you think you would get satisfaction
from fighting fires and consequently saving people's lives and property,
consider joining the service. You need to live or work in the village
but you would not have to be on call 24 hours a day. Oxfordshire Fire Service
is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Rita Pinfold, our Practice Nurse, is retiring at the end of June after fifteen years at Hook Norton Surgery. Born at Cherrington, Rita has had an interesting career which has seen many changes. Her first post was at Bloxham where she was District Nurse. From there she worked at Alton, Newbury and in Dorset and completed her working life in Hook Norton.
Rita has played a vital part in the Surgery. She is someone in whom it is easy to confide and her friendly and confident approach helps put those medical worries in perspective.
She is looking forward to retirement and has already taken her first golf lesson. She knows that she will miss meeting people from the village but feels the time has come to retire.
We, the people of Hook Norton, will miss her very much
indeed and wish her a very happy and fulfilled retirement.
The Village Transport Representative and Parish Councillor
Isita Pickering attended a Cherwell District Area meeting in Banbury on
15th May to discuss the next review of financially supported bus services
in our area. Contracts for subsidies expire at the end of Oct '97 after
the Public Transport Sub Committee meeting on September 4th. It was emphasised
that responses from the Parish Council and Transport Rep. must be received
by June 23rd. Mr Alan Wittan from Oxfordshire Council's Public Transport
Section presided. Two buses concern Hook Norton on Saturday journeys. The
7.30am from Chipping Norton reaching Hooky at 7.48am and Banbury at 8.25
am could be under threat as recently no one has been using it between Chipping
Norton and Hooky. It could be retained by starting at Hook Norton. The
next bus at 8.07am reaches Banbury at 8.45am. The 487 Saturday bus leaving
Banbury at 9.15am arriving at Hook Norton 9.46am and reaching Chipping
Norton at 10.04am is also under consideration. It would continue to run
on weekdays. The bus after that is the 11.12am from Hooky arriving at Chipping
Norton at 11.30am. If these two buses are being used it is vital to let
the Parish Council know, or Transport Rep. Marion Roberts, 'Brambles',
Bourne Lane or leave a note at the Post Office. All responses must be in
writing. If village buses are seen not to be supported it could be the
thin end of the wedge leading to further cuts !! To those without their
own transport the bus service is vital, please let your views be known
by June 23rd. Marion Roberts
Hook Norton Playgroup is open for 2 1/2 - 5 year olds, five mornings a week (Monday - Friday) during term time from 9 - 12 noon. If you would like more information, come and visit any time during Playgroup hours or ring Alrys Morris on 730560 for further details.
Hook Norton Teeny Tots is open to 2 1/2 - 3 year olds on Tuesday afternoons 1pm - 2.30pm . Only children registered at Playgroup may attend, with younger siblings, - sorry, no older brothers/sisters. Hook Norton Playgroup Summer Play-scheme will be open during one or maybe two mornings during August. Please see the notice in Playgroup for more details. We will also be running Teeny Tots for one afternoon per week during August. Ring Colette on 737829.
Annual General Meeting Sept 1997 (date to be finalised)
We will be holding our A.G.M. in September at which meeting
the current committee will have to stand down. Very soon I shall be looking
for volunteers to fill these vacated posts - so keep your eyes peeled for
details on the Playgroup noticeboard. I would like to thank Alrys and Pat
and all the parents for all their support over the last eighteen months,
during which time I have been Chairperson, and to thank them for their
efforts in fund-raising for the Playgroup. I would especially like to thank
the Committee for their monumental effort and selfless contribution of
their time without which my job would have been impossible. Thank you.
Josephine Duggan, Chairperson
It's outings time and the local History Group has two planned for its remaining sessions. The first is to the Chipping Norton Museum on June 3rd and the second to the Chiltern Open Air Museum at Chalfont St. Giles, on Saturday July 12th.
Guests would be welcome to accompany members on both visits, though there might be some restriction on numbers at Chipping Norton.
For further details ring Christopher Barry on 730407 or
Barbara Hicks on 737017.
We are delighted to report that Hook Norton Rangers have got off to a good start this term with eight girls. We have got a full and varied programme lined up for the term including outdoor cooking, swimming, craft, a sleepover and a Bar-b-q. We have already been to Oxford to see a ladies ice hockey match and followed this with a meal at Fatty Arbuckle's. Two of the Rangers also attended the recent Canoeing Taster Session at Banbury outdoor pool and one managed a roll!
We have cooked vegetarian style which was delicious. Three
girls and two Guiders attended the Base Camp Training laid on by The Guide
Association which is a weekend learning about lightweight camping, the
Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme and other activities which can be brought
into the Ranger Guide programme. Rangers is for young women aged between
14 - 26. If anybody is interested to find out more, please ring Di Walker
on 737946 or Jenny Bruton on 737542.
Our Brownie Pack Holiday
On April 2nd, 17 of the 1st Hook Norton Brownies set off
to Jubilee House near Oxford for our pack holiday which lasted for four
nights. Whilst we were there we went swimming, played lots of games in
the wood and went on an agility course which was fun. We had a theme. It
was the 'Lion King'. We also made a salt dough necklace and a lion puppet.
We all enjoyed it even though we didn't get much sleep because our beds
were wobbly. Kirsty Cooke 1st Hook Norton Brownies
There was a very welcome response from the plea in the
last issue and we are pleased to let you know that a second Rainbow unit
starts from early June in the Memorial Hall on Tuesdays at 4pm. Ring Adrienne
Barnett-Hall on 737493 for more details.
This a rare opportunity to see some of the beautiful gardens
of the unspoilt North Oxfordshire village of Swerford. An interesting exhibition
of country crafts is on show in the Village Hall. The weekend, 28th
and 29th June, is in aid of the Appeal for the restoration of the bells
of St Mary's Church. The bells will remain silent until over £30,000
has been raised. We have received about half of the total needed. Please
help us to raise the balance in time for our bells to ring in the Millennium.
01608 737823 or 737273
Following an approach made by the Oxfordshire Dyslexia Association it has been agreed that dyslexic customers are now entitled to borrow audio books fee of charge. This means that people who are unable to cope with print, whether from visual impairment, physical disability or because they are dyslexic, can now enjoy this provision.
The concession for dyslexic readers is restricted to members of the Oxfordshire Dyslexic Association. For further membership details write to Elna Mayor,
14 Warwick Close, Abingdon, Oxon OX14 2HN.
Other information from 01993 811946
The 'Coffee Bar' and Cake Stall at the Monthly Market are continuing to raise much needed funds for the Church. Offers of help, and particularly of cakes, would be warmly welcomed by Mary Powell (737463).
More help is also needed for the cleaning of the church. If any ladies (or gentlemen?) feel they could join the rota of cleaners, they should contact Beryl White (737001) or Mary Powell. The cleaners are responsible for a two week period, approximately every two months and the more helpers there are the less arduous the task. Please do consider if you would be able to volunteer for this, and perhaps persuade a friend to do it with you.
St. Peter's Day, June 29th, falls on a Sunday this
year and our Patronal Festival will be celebrated at the 10am Eucharist.
Owing to two other activities already planned for that day, we are not
this year having the 'St. Peter's Tea' which was so much enjoyed last year.
However a light lunch will be served following the Patronal Festival Eucharist.
Further information and tickets will be available from Paula Clarke 737584
(Home) or 737210 (Work), and from Jan Hughes (737900). Details will also
be published in the Benefice Bulletin for June, available in the church.
I didn't know that Greenland was owned by Denmark! I have been selected from over 400 young people to join an expedition run by the British Schools Exploring Society to South West Greenland this summer.
This six week expedition will visit an area to the east of the Tasermuit Fjord. The purpose of the expedition is "to initiate a study to provide the base-line information and the methodology to measure the effects of visitor pressure on a number of sites over a period of subsequent years".
The need for this has arisen since the production of a good quality map for the first time this year which marks trails, camp-sites etc. A commercial airport is now open at Narssassuaq and an efficient ferry system takes visitors south as far as Augpilatoq. Coupled with an enterprising tourism officer based at Nanortalik, a boom is about to happen.
In order for this wild and lovely area to be protected from human interference, the proposed scientific study is vital. Small groups of Young Explorers (72 altogether) will be studying different aspects of the area which may include botanical studies, ornithology, lichenometry and the chance to access the ice-cap itself. We will be living in tents for six weeks - weather could be below freezing - and we have been warned that we will be tired, cold, frustrated and at times frightened. The latest letter from the BSES has warned of some specific problems we may face - hypothermia, frostbite, snow blindness. Thankfully they take a doctor with them, but it has been stressed that each group of 12 must all look after each other, and constantly watch for any signs of these problems. Team work is vital.
We fly to Narssarssuaq on 17th July and then take a ferry to Nanortalik. Small boats will then be used to transport us and some equipment nearer our destination. We then have a long hike - carrying all our own gear and also a share of tents, cooking utensils, climbing equipment etc. Everything that we may need for our 6 weeks stay has to be taken with us as we will be situated in a relatively isolated and inaccessible place.
As part of the challenge of the Expedition I have to raise £2,650 as well as equipping myself with suitable high altitude clothing and footwear. Never having visited the high arctic before I have very little in the way of arctic clothing and although this Expedition takes place in summer, it will still be very cold. So altogether I am looking to raise £3,500.
Our fund-raising efforts so far have been well supported and we have been overwhelmed by the generous donations that we have received. So far I have received £980 in donations (including a sizeable amount from the Hook Norton Guides - thank you - and a smaller donation from the Guide Association Anglia Region). The pharmaceutical companies have been fantastic and so far have sponsored me for another £1,200 with some more promised. We recently ran a Logo Quiz - we sold 72 sheets but only 11 were sent in to be marked. Congratulations to Lucy Warner who won the £15 prize. Out Table Top sale in the Memorial Hall in March raised another £160 and very many thanks to all who supported us. Janet Collins kindly held a Coffee Morning with a "pay to swim" on 28th May.
We are running a Donkey Derby (see below for details) in a joint fund-raising effort for myself and The Injured Jockey's Fund on Sunday 29th June starting at 2.pm. I am hopeful that I may cover all my expenses before this date in which case ALL proceeds will go to the Injured Jockeys. Please do come and support this event, and have a fun afternoon as well.
If anybody would like to sponsor me and /or The Injured Jockeys, we would be pleased to hear from you. All the races and donkeys have now been sponsored, but we are looking to cover expenses on the day - about £500, and of course I still have several hundred pounds to raise.
I return from Greenland on Saturday 31st August and I am sure the first thing I will want is a bath. As this expedition will be counting towards my Gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award, it all has to be written up and submitted, so hopefully a shortened version of my trip will be published in the Newsletter before the end of 1997. May I say a big thank you to everybody who has supported me in any way.
On Sunday 29th June we are holding a Donkey Derby in aid of The Injured Jockeys Fund, and also to access the last amount needed for Lucy Walker's scientific expedition to Greenland this summer (see above). This will start at 2.0pm in the Rural Fayre field and will be opened by a racing celebrity. Royal Athlete (Grand National winner in 1995) will be there to parade for us.
There will be some ridden races for light riders (under 8 stone - come and ride on the day) and the other races will be in sulky carts and will be between various jockeys and trainers. The day will end with a final of the Jockeys -v- the Trainers knockout races. We will be running a Tote so come and have a bet on your favourite jock.
There will be other attractions on the day - several sideshows for younger children to be run by the Rangers, Guides and Brownies, a cake stall and a raffle. Food and drink will be available all afternoon and T-shirts will be on sale to commemorate the day. It should be a good fun afternoon for all the family.
Rosettes will be awarded to winning jockeys and prizes to winning "owners". The prizes will be presented by some jockeys who through injury themselves whilst racing, have been supported by The Injured Jockeys Fund. We are grateful to them for coming. Please come and support us and have a good time.
The last two meetings have been well attended and greatly enjoyed. Mike Terry gave an interesting talk on April 12th - braving the ladies of the W.I.! - on his life as a journalist on some well known newspapers, with many humourous episodes. Joyce Stuchbury presided in her new role as President and presented retiring president Lee Morgan, Treasurer Mary White and Secretary Pam Wood with flowers to thank them for their support and help. Lee will be the new treasurer and Sue Winspear and Marion Roberts joint secretaries.
Val Jeacock was invited to give a demonstration on floral and foliage arrangements on May 13th and she produced some spectacular displays which lucky raffle winners received as prizes. The meeting concluded with a Resolutions discussion. Some offers of help were given to tidy the W.I. garden.
Six members enjoyed the Group Meeting at Tadmarton on April 24th at which Tamara Malcolm gave an interesting talk about The Theatre, Chipping Norton. A happy sociable evening with excellent refreshments was greatly enjoyed and thanks were given to Tadmarton W.I.
Members look forward to a 'mystery' outing on June 10th to be arranged by Joyce. The July meeting on Tuesday 8th will welcome a speaker from the Red Cross.
Meetings are as usual on the second Tuesday of the month
at 7.45pm in the Baptist Hall. New members and guests are always welcome.
Marion Roberts.
The Cubs and Scouts worked really hard during Job Week. Thanks to everyone who gave anyone a job.
At the end of the Easter holidays a group of us went to stay at 22nd Oxford (Sea Scouts) H.Q. It has a wonderful setting on the bank of the Isis. The Cubs and Scouts played football by torchlight - the adults were the goal posts! We had a walking tour of Oxford, visited the Museum, and went ice skating. Saturday evening we were joined by other Leaders from the District and played widegames in the dark. On Sunday we had a pioneering challenge and went to Didcot, swimming. All of this was our leaving "Bash" for Calvin before his departure for Canada. A really enjoyable, emotional weekend.
We have all turned up for St George's Parade, a bit cold, everyone looked very smart.
Most recently the Cubs have taken part in "Activity Day" at Horley and came 6th and 22nd out of 27 teams. There were only six points between them, a very close competition. Unbelievable enthusiasm came from everyone considering the terrible weather on 11th May.
Calvin's last weekend was marked with triumph when he was part of the Banbury District team, together with Janet and four others, taking part in a County Challenge. They won the "Bracken Challenge" after a gruelling day of assault course, climbing, archery, rifle shooting etc. etc.
Thanks to Calvin for all his help and support.
Leaders desperately needed to help with expanding Scout Group - NOW !
IN MEMORY OF HANNAH MARY WILLIAMS
Hannah Mary Williams was credited with being Hook Norton's first midwife.
Born Hannah Mary Sturdy in 1908 near Durham, her early years were not easy - her father died when she was a teenager and her mother suffered from diphtheria which meant they spent a lengthy time apart.
Against the backdrop of poverty and disease, so ubiquitous after the Great War, she dedicated herself to work in nursing and midwifery.
She took the then enormous step of going to London to attain her primary medical knowledge, and followed this by study of midwifery at Derby.
After this she was appointed as the first midwife Hook Norton had ever known.
A tribute in itself is that no child delivered by her ever died as a result of septicaemia incurred at birth.
She was also an early feminist, espousing ideas then which have become recognised today as part of the rights of modern women.
Her championing of the underdog meant inevitably that she married someone with parallel views - Tom Williams.
During the Second World War, she continued her work as a midwife and Tom as a farmer. Both were committed pacifists but their distaste for war was not well
understood and they both experienced some hostility.
After she was widowed four years ago, Mary pursued ardently her love of theatre and art.
She died on January 15th aged 88, and a funeral service took place at Oakley Wood Crematorium, Warwick.
A mother of four children, she had 10 grandchildren and
became a great grandmother to five children.
Chipping Norton and District Twinning Association have just returned from visiting their twin town of Magny-en-Vexin for their bi-annual visit.
Thirty-five members travelled to Magny this year and, as always were received with great warmth and affection. For a few members this year was their first visit to France and they were not sure what to expect but, with hindsight, all have concluded that they should not have worried at all.
Travel to France took place on the Friday and the members arrived in Magny-en-Vexin just before 6pm and were received with welcome refreshments in the Salle Des Fetes before departing for their hosts homes.
Saturday was like a beautiful summer day and for those who wished to participate the Amicale Magnytoise had organised a guided tour of the town, with an English speaking guide, to give some historical background. This proved to be extremely interesting and very enjoyable, especially with the good weather. The programme for the remainder of the day was left to individual hosts. For some of the Twinners this was a day spent with their French twin family and friends, particularly where the individual twinning link had been in existence for some considerable time. Others, with newer links and not very much knowledge of the area visited local parks and chateaux, or famous sites such as Monet's Garden in Giverny or went sight-seeing in Paris. The Amicale Magnytoise offered a different format to the formal function on Saturday evening by arranging a dinner/dance with traditional folk music. This received a mixed reception on both sides - for some people it was extremely interesting to listen to French Folk music (and interpretations of some famous English songs) and join in the dances. Others would have preferred a more usual arrangement with a modern music group. However, the function lasted well into the early hours of the morning with a good number of people there.
A visit to Versailles was arranged for Sunday afternoon and French and English participants had own-language guides around the Kings and Queens apartments in Versailles, including the spectacular "Hall of Mirrors" which is still used today for state functions.
We returned to Magny in the early evening to have dinner in an old watermill just outside the town. This was a very relaxing occasion with most people having
remembered more French or English than they thought they knew - and not so many
people with "dictionary thumb" on this visit!!
We look forward to receiving our French friends in Chipping
Norton next year in the springtime. If anyone is interested in the possibility
of linking with a French family and would like to find out more then please
call Stuart Golding on 01295 810487.
Your Chance to Speak Up about Your Community
The Cherwell Community Plan is under review, and your opinion is wanted by Cherwell District Council. The Community Plan was adopted by Cherwell District Council last year after extensive consultation with individuals, groups and businesses throughout the Cherwell District.
The consultation revealed that the wider population of Cherwell District felt that their were four groups of people who should receive particular consideration in terms of the services already delivered by the Council, and as regards any special projects the Council was able to carry out.
These four groups are elderly people, young people, people with physical disability or sensory impairment, and people who find themselves vulnerable through poverty, isolation, or fear of crime.
A number of different initiatives have already been introduced to address the needs of these groups: District Wide Dial-A-Ride, for example, the Cherwell Link card, shopmobility in Bicester, CCTV in town centres, and extra grants for voluntary organisations to name but a few. Plans for the future, when funds become available, include: informal recreation areas and facilities for young people developed through consultation with the local community; extending CCTV to leisure centres, schools and other buildings which the community use on a daily basis; and looking at all our buildings to see what can be done to make access to them easier for all.
But what do you think? Is the Cherwell Community Plan shaping up to your liking? Cherwell District Council is always glad to hear from District residents, but during June your views on the Plan and its development will be particularly welcome. There are a number of ways in which you can make your views known:
Write to the Chief Executive. at Cherwell District Council, Bodicote House, Bodicote, Banbury, Oxon, OX15 4AA.
Telephone: on 01295 252535 Ext 4102
Complete the post-paid questionnaire included in the Summer issue of Cherwell Link which will be delivered to you in June.
Come along to one of the public meetings and make your point directly to leading Councillors and the Chief Executive. The meetings are as follows:
Hook Norton CE School June 4th 7 - 9pm
Banbury Town Hall, June 26 7 - 9pm
THE TRUTH ABOUT DEM BARE BONES
At last...a date for Hook Norton's premiere of the Film Society's production, Bare Bones. There will be two performances on June 28 which is a Saturday. The first will be at 7pm and will be by ticket only. Actors, production people and specially invited guests will be at that one, and the doors of the Memorial Hall will be open at 6.30pm.
There will be a second showing at 9pm and this will be open to anyone.
Videos of the film will be on sale at £8. 50 and, as the action takes place in a mythical village called "Spoof Norton", the chances are you'll recognise the architecture and the characters.
The last film of the Society's 1996-97 season was on Saturday May 17, when about 80 members watched the Emma Thompson-Jonathon Pryce film, Carrington. Members brought a wide variety of dishes for the supper - from vegan to carnivorous. It was a very good evening.
The '97-'98 season is an exciting one. Here is the programme: Sept 13, Brassed Off; Oct 4, Breaking The Waves; Oct 18, Gabbeh; Nov 8, Clerks; Nov 22, Fargo; Dec 13, OR Dec 20, La Traviata; Jan 10, Fellini's 8 1/2; Feb 7, Secrets and Lies; Feb 28, Metropolis (silent); Mar 14, To Kill a Mockingbird; Mar 28,
A Touch of Evil; April 25, Antonia's Line; May 16, The Last Supper.
All at the Memorial Hall. Supper £3 at 7.15pm. Film
at 8pm. Membership for the season £20, includes admission to all
films. Guests £3.
Don Cornelius successfully completed the London Marathon on April 13th. This year he ran for Cochlear Implant Association. This is an organisation recently formed to help more deaf people to get a cochlear implant. Don's son Christopher has greatly benefited from such an implant and Don's efforts will hopefully help other people gain the same benefit.
Thanks are expressed to everyone who kindly donated, also to Isita at the Post Office and Sandra at the Hairdressers for their efforts in obtaining and collecting the sponsorship. The total sponsorship was £465.
There were 18 members of the Hook Norton Harriers running
this year's race including villagers Jane Pargeter, Lillian Carpenter,
Cecilia Peterson and Don's daughter Leigh-Ann Sylvester. If after seeing
the marathon on the television you thought you might 'have a go' yourself
next year, why not take the first step and join the Harriers. They meet
every Tuesday at the Sports and Social Club in the Bourne at 7.0pm. They
are a mixed ability and friendly bunch and would welcome new members no
matter how fast or how slow. For any further information contact Don on
737547.
IN MEMORY OF MRS IVY MOSS (nee ARCHER)
It is with regret that we report the death of Mrs Ivy Moss on 2nd April 1997 in Brooklands Nursing Home, Banbury, aged 93 years
Mrs Moss was born on 28th December 1903 at the Sun Inn, the younger of two daughters of Mr and Mrs George Archer. She left Hook Norton in 1926 on her marriage to Mr Eric Moss, returning in 1935 with her three children to live with her parents following the death of her husband. She remained in Hook Norton until 1962 when she moved to Middleton Cheney.
Her funeral took place at St Peters Church on 9th April
1997 and she was buried in the cemetery next to her husband.
Thank you to every one who came to the litter pick on
Sunday 20th April as part of the Cherwell Spring Clean. A special thank
you to the Guides, Beavers and Cubs for coping with at least half of the
village and what a splendid job the Scouts did cleaning the stream out
at the bottom of Bell Hill. Well done everyone.
These continue to be a huge success and thank you to all
the residents who recycle with care by not leaving rubbish on the site.
However, would the person who cleaned their garage over the Easter weekend
and left their smelly rotting boxes on the site, kindly not do it again.
I have to remove and dispose of these and it's quite unpleasant. Plastic
bags full of unwashed cans and bottles have been dumped fortnightly since
Easter; please remember, dumping is not recycling. Sue Salter, Parish
Councillor
Once again we will be presenting the beer drinking enthusiasts of Britain, and indeed the world, with forty fine ales from all around the country.
The format is the same as in previous years, and we have a full range of entertainment ranging from Owlswick Morris, Music and Morris dancing, the famous Hook Norton Silver Band, and in the evening we will be welcoming the inimitable Toby & The Amigos. Food will be available all day, and we have the full facilities of the Pear Tree for those who want wines, spirits, soft drinks etc. Lots of room for the kids to play, so make it a family day out.
As in previous years, all the money goes to charity, primarily Leukaemia Research.
If you want to help, we will be holding our helpers meeting on Thursday 12th June at 8pm at the Brewery Function Room. There are several types of help we need: Before the event, help with setting up, on the day, bar staff organised as teams of six, ticket and glass sales, and we would like someone to take on the responsibility of organising and running the raffle.
If you want to know more contact Jem Hayward on 01608
730409 (eves) or Denis Wynn on 01608 643036 or fax 01608 641025 email beerfestival@briksdal.compulink.co.uk
or visit us on the internet at http://www.compulink.co.uk/~briksdal/hnff.htm.
A DAFFODIL CYCLE RUN ON EASTER SUNDAY
For some years now I have made a point of riding to Eastleach and Southrop in the Cotswolds to enjoy the lovely display of daffodils there and in surrounding villages.
Normally I keep off the roads at busy holiday times but with the daffodils being early this year delay meant they would be past their best - so Easter Sunday it was.
With food packed in the saddle bag the night before I was off on a glorious Spring morning with a very light breeze and enough cloud to make the sky interesting. Out past the church at 8.15am BST (the clock still said 7-15 GMT) to a steady climb up South Hill, through Great Rollright to Cross Hands, (not much activity on the crowded caravan site there), having passed the deserted Rollright Stones.
Take the Stow road and swoop down to the river and rail bridge waving to a fellow cyclist plodding uphill. Turn to Lower and Upper Oddington and make for Icomb and Wyk Beacon, some stiff climbs here.
Now on high ground, have some lovely views over Bourton on the Water and beyond with wide skies above, on past the old Rissington Airfield, hearing the larks in full song. (You can't hear that inside a motor car!). A good mainly downhill run on a straight road to Gt Barrington to halt on the little bridge over the Windrush to chat to a married couple of cyclists resting there for awhile. The lady telling she came to cycling later in life but was completely hooked and enjoying it.
So to Little Barrington where a large expanse of celandines, now fully open in the morning sunshine, vie with the daffodils. Spurred on by the invigorating morning air, climb out of there and cross the A40 - not yet very busy - soon do a right and a left to head for Fyfield and Southrop, hardly meeting anyone else on the road.
Southrop did not disappoint, the garden alongside the river Leach crammed with daffodils at their best. On through the village, (the church has a wonderful font), to the Eastleaches, Turville and Marten either side the river with their twin ancient churches, one in use the other 'preserved' and both well worth a visit. Again the daffodils are at their best.
An old pedestrian 'clapper bridge' (known as the Kebble Bridge), crossed the crystal clear river Leach and leads to a short path alongside the river to the disused church. This walk is lined with daffodils and is quite a feature.
A gate leads into the churchyard with a comfortable seat just inside, an ideal spot for lunch as it is now 11.45 and with an early breakfast I'm ready for it. Sitting there in the warm sunshine I reflect that when I was born on 28 March 1921 it too was Eastertide, (so I'm told - can't say I remember!) so to me this is an ideal way of enjoying the anniversary, far better than drinking champagne!
An hour and a half gone, time to make a move! Head out in a NE direction with a stiff climb in about a mile and then quite easy going to Shilton where a ford on a side road and the adjoining village pond is almost deserted. It's usually full of youngsters paddling around getting themselves and everybody else in the vicinity very wet. Interesting old pump there, two tier, the lower for buckets the high one for filling tanks on farm carts of old.
I am pleased to see the number of people out on bicycles - racing types, seasoned tourists and family groups with Dad and Mum fore and aft with the youngsters enthusiastically pedalling away in between - and these just out locally for a few happy cycling miles. Plenty of walkers too.
Now head for Swinbrook, crossing the A40 (easier than
I thought it would be) - across the Windrush and into the village, the
road lined with daffodils - the church well worth a visit. Now north for
Shipton-under-Wychwood with a short break on a seat at South Lawn for a
snack, then a swift descent into Shipton, then Milton, Bruern and Kingham.
With time to spare, sit on a seat on the Green there before tackling the
steady climb up Kingham Hill to the A436 and Cross Hands. Now the Rollright
road, the Rollright Stones - now very busy, and so home after a memorable
Easter Sunday 58 miles. If anyone would like further details of this or
any other routes - just ask at Swiss Bungalow, Sibford
Road. Norman Brookes
Jo Chadwick of Pear Tree Cottage would be delighted to video your family occasion, free of charge, be it a christening, wedding, retirement or what you will. Ring her on
737199 for further details.
NATIONAL CARERS WEEK 9 - 15TH JUNE
Theme:
Making the connection: with GPs and nurses; volunteer helpers; other carers.
The Editors regularly receive Caring Matters, the magazine of the Carers Centre North West Oxfordshire and can only print selected items. If you wish to see the magazine please ring 737017.
Below is a request for information on young carers, followed by an extract from someone `who was a young carer, if not in name.
Young Carers Research Study
Formerly a farmers daughter from Overthorpe, Banbury and a Banbury carer,I am now employed as a Carer Development Worker for Northamptonshire Carers Association based at Northampton.
I am currently engaged in research on young carers and my study is based on the reflective perceptions of Adults (over 18) who were previously young carers.
If you were a young carer I would be delighted to hear from you. Any information will be treated as confidential, and support will be given if sensitive feelings are evoked through the process. I hope the research will serve to help young carers of today. I look forward to your contacting me, Gloria Edwards Davidson, on either 01327 - 887926 or 01604 236168.
Find the Carer
When I was twelve my mother died.......... I don't think anyone realised how odd my father had become, or how much he was relying on me psychologically - very often he would sit me down and complain and rant at me for an hour or so at a time... I felt he was expecting support from me that I was quite unable to give.
..........Officially, of course, it was my father,
the brave widower, caring for "his little girl", but when I look back at
the physical work I did and the mental strain in living with him, I wonder
whether there are not more brave young carers in our communities than we
realise? After all, not all adults are copers throughout their lives, and
the parent with a drink or tranquilliser problem is often looked after
by the children of the family.
Never have we had so beautiful a display of spring flowers and blossom as this year. Many gardeners are trying organic methods of cultivation and Nature responds with a multitudinous variation of colour, shade and shape to delight us. Insects abound and the song of birds brings solace to our souls and no words can describe the scent.
But what is the response of the villagers of Hook Norton? Can we really only live our lives within the shackles of the desire to win the TIDIEST village competition. Is it not a greater thing to protect and assist the beauty and harmony of Nature. Can we not read notices which ask PLEASE DO NOT CUT WILD FLOWERS. Can we not ask our neighbours if they mind if a joining verge can be mown (to yield a dull expanse of green instead of a myriad of colour)?
Only today has a small section of roadside verge alongside a bridge been shorn of over 12 species of wild flower. I, for one, was so looking forward to seeing them, filming them, specifying and learning. The old way was to cut and neaten at hay-making time after the flower had set seed.
PLEASE, Please let us keep our lawns IN
our gardens and allow our verges to show us the miracle of nature.
Jo Chadwick
Domestic violence is any physical, emotional or sexual abuse between two people who are, or have been in a close relationship. It can happen to anyone, whatever their age. It can take the form of threats and intimidation, mental or verbal criticism, and it can result in feelings of guilt, low self-esteem, depression and stress. Outsiders may not realise what is happening, but help is available, a phone call away, dial 999.
If you want to talk to someone in confidence try one of the agencies listed below, or phone the Police and ask for the Area Domestic Violence co-ordinator on Oxford (01865) 266404.
If you are reluctant to contact the Police, there are other agencies to whom you can speak confidentially, some of which are:-
Oxford Women's Aid - Oxford (01865) 791186
They can offer a safe place to stay, and information, advice and support to women and their children.
Victim Support - Oxford (01865) 711186
They have a team of volunteers who visit people at home or in a neutral place, and offer emotional support and practical help.
Housing rights Centre - Oxford (01865) 247853
They offer free advice on housing issues
Citizens Advice Bureau - Oxford (01865) 247578
They offer free information on benefits, women's rights, divorce and custody of children, and a range of other information. They can also advise you how to contact a solicitor and whether you will be eligible for Legal Aid.
Oxford Sexual Abuse and Rape Crisis Centre - Oxford (01865) 726275
They offer free confidential support to women of all ages who have suffered any physical, emotional or sexual abuse recently or in the past.
Samaritans - Oxford (01865) 722122 or Banbury (01295) 270000
They offer confidential counselling on any problems.
The Club's programme is well under way. On the 11th April Mr Gibbs came to the
Club and shewed us some of his collection of photographs of the village and its inhabitants going back to the very early years of this century; it was interesting to note that those members who have lived all their lives in the village knew many of the people in the slides and a lot of lively discussion took place. These pictures are the history of the village and it is earnestly hoped that they will continue to be available.
On 25th April we went to Worcester; a very wet day, the
only people who gained were the shopkeepers although shopping was enlivened
by a bomb scare - it appeared that a package had been left in the bus station
and a large area had to be cleared. Fortunately our coach was not impounded
and we got home safe and sound but damp. On 9th May Sub-Officer Peedle
from the Fire Service gave us a most interesting talk on fire, its causes
and prevention, and gave some very useful advice, which it is hoped we
shall never need!
Is your dog the best? Prizes for young and old, pedigrees and crossbreeds at the Rural Fayre Dog Show. Could you win the 'dog and owner look alike' prize?
Entries on the day, Sunday, 6th July, 2pm start.
Julia Edwards - 737810
We say goodbye to Paul and Marigold Carter who are leaving
the village after many years to return to their roots in the Yorkshire
Dales. Paul was a much loved teacher at the Primary School for some years
and also a Parish Councillor. Marigold ran a dancing school for 25 years
in Chipping Norton which many Hooky children attended and enjoyed greatly.
The village is going to miss both of them as well as the contribution which
they make to the community. We wish them well
| Our local village cricket team
Is the pride and pet of the village. If father should mention the garden, We sheared off and left him the tillage. On Sat'day the farmer to his sons would say, "It's work today, not cricket". They'd work like hell in the morning; Afternoon found them around the wicket. If they played away and lost or won, Their troubles they soon forgot With a drink and a song at the local; Their cash - they'd soon spent the lot! In my little life times are changing Better times; shorter hours; better pay. Things are altogether better for cricket Than they ever were in our day. |
Now wireless has given us pleasure
We can listen to Test all the day Black looks come on our faces When they tell us that "Rain stopped play" Now cricket is Saturday - Sunday too; Night matches that never are tame. For all of them is the love of the sport And all for the love of the game. You can play cricket for years and years Provided you have any luck. My cricketing days were soon over One innings, one ball and one duck! |
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This is our first attempt. In future we'll do it a little better. Conversion
to html by, and comments to Jem
Hayward
Frames and contents devised by Steve
Jackson
Photographs by Clever