Bride Valley News
Towards the end of September there was an article in a national newspaper about one man's search for 'a rural retreat in Dorset' (Telegraph Property 21st September 2002). The author described how he viewed cottages in West Dorset villages priced up to 'only £150,000', and eventually and happily found and purchased one in Litton Cheney. The property more than met his specification. It was beautifully and quietly located, old and thatched, near(ish) to a traditional(ish) pub, in a village with a church, primary school and a horse looking over a garden gate, and with a particular near(ish) neighbour to give the author a 'whiff of celebrity'. With this last remark I winced, as I know the celebrity in question will also have done. His small cottage once housed farm labourers, and could perhaps have been considered a 'starter-home' for a working family to live in free or at a subsidised rent. I understand that there are very few tied houses in Litton, and I am told that there is nowhere to rent for under £5000 per month, or to buy for much less than £100,000. The author of the article in the end paid £165,000 for his small retreat (but never mind the width, feel the quality). Of course I realise that second homes / weekend retreats / holiday cottages, call them what you may, are now almost a boring issue, but not to our local young people who have been priced out of the countryside they were brought up in, and to local businesses who are effectively serving, in the villages anyway, a reducing population. The author, by his own admission, will be coming down to his cottage to retreat. He will probably bring his provisions with him - in fact he'll have to because there is no local shop and he won't want to mix in Bridport. He will enjoy the church bells on a Sunday morning but will he want to join the ringers who practise on Mondays, or even respond to the call of the bells and come to worship in his idyllic village church? He won't be able to send his children (if he has any) to the local school, and his modernised cottage and tiny garden will need minimal ( local ) maintenance, nor will he be able to be a dependable neighbour or support any organisation that works to keep his idyllic village an idyllic village, if it meets on a weekday (as most do). If the current trends in village demography are extrapolated, say a generation into the future, will there anyway be children for our school, residents to maintain Church as building and people, customers for the pub, and house-owners here long enough to look after the horse looking over the fence? These are questions for us all, as people, in the most case, who buy and sell houses, and as people who need or who want to live around here. These are questions for the Church too, not only because it will suffer as the resident local population declines, but also because it is called to work for the kingdom of Heaven where all share equally in the riches of everlasting life. Anthony Ashwell
The Bride Valley Team Council next meets on Thursday 7th November 2002 at 7.30 pm in Puncknowle Church Hall. The Valley Remembrance Day Service, at which members of The Bride Valley Branch of The Royal British Legion will be present, takes place this year on Sunday 10th November at St Martin's Shipton Gorge at 10.45 am. THE BRIDE VALLEY (WEDNESDAY) BIBLE STUDY GROUP Just a reminder of our programme for November and December. Please see the church notice boards for further details. Session V St Mark - Chapter 4 Nov 6th 7, Norburton, Burton Bradstock Nov 13th The Rectory, Litton Cheney Session VI St Mark - Chapter 5 Nov 20th Cairnhill, Shipton Gorge Nov 27th Puncknowle Church Hall Session VII St Mark - Chapter 6 Dec 4th Windy Gap, Shipton Lane, B.B. Dec 11th The Old Rectory, Litton Cheney Anthony Ashwell (482302) Bride Valley Churches Confirmations Bishop Tim (of Sherborne) will be coming to St Mary's Church, Puncknowle at 7.00pm on Thursday 14th November to confirm the nine Puncknowle candidates plus one from Long Bredy. The three other Long Bredy candidates will be confirmed at Salisbury Cathedral on Saturday 9th November at 7.00pm. Please pray for all our candidates who are, in alphabetical order: Charles and George ffoulkes (Higher Kingston Russell) Rachel Fox (Long Bredy) Katie Fry (Puncknowle) Lauren Hannan (Puncknowle) Katy Laver (Puncknowle) John, Vicky and Clare Moore (Puncknowle) Nick and Patrick Moore (Puncknowle) Holly Scott (Long Bredy) Benjamin Worley (Puncknowle) The two sets of Moore's are not related - John is Vicky and Clare's grandfather, Nick is Patrick's father. Please see under Puncknowle for further details of the November 14th Confirmation. Men's Breakfast Every third Saturday of each month, the Bride Valley Churches are holding a men's breakfast at Puncknowle Village Hall from 8.00 am to 10.00 am. There'll be a cooked breakfast, of course, and a chance to chat. For more information phone Paul ... on ... or Jonathan Jevons on 897068. First Steps Parent and Toddler Group meet on Wednesdays from 10.00am till 12 noon and are based at Long Bredy Village Hall. We offer toys and activities for all pre-school children, coffee and chat for parents and carers. For further details contact: Jo (Litton Cheney) ... or Julie (Puncknowle) 897178 or Lavinia (Long Bredy) 482397 Litton Cheney Youth Club The Youth Club continues to meet for those in Litton Cheney and the surrounding area aged 8 - 17 years. For further details contact Paul Kingston 482384. Burton Bradstock School Many villagers have asked me for news regarding the appointment of a new Headteacher to our school. I print for you here some extracts from the letter that Hil Bosworth sent to parents following the appointment. Dear Parents and Friends, In the last Governors' newsletter I wrote "Our next challenge is to replace a Head Teacher who is much loved and highly respected, and who has built Burton into a thriving and successful school with a fantastic reputation for music, sport, outdoor activities and much more besides. He will be a hard act to follow but the governors are confident that they will appoint a strong Head who will maintain the high standards we have come to expect at Burton Bradstock School." I am very pleased (and relieved !) to be able to tell you that we have done just that! After two days of selection tasks, including getting candidates to lead an assembly, teach a group of Y5/6 children and run a mock staff meeting, as well as interviews, the governors and our advisers were unanimous in their decision to appoint Mr Mark Stratta. Mr Stratta comes to us with glowing references from his current Head teacher at Charmouth primary school, where he has been the Deputy Head for several years and is currently teaching the Y5/6 class. He will join us at the start of next term in January and will teach class 4 in the afternoons as Mr Powell has done. Mark lives in Lyme Regis and is married with two children. He has many talents and lots of interests including music (he plays piano and guitar) photography, art, badminton, swimming and sailing. Mark has also led many different other extra curricular activities at different times, such as football, athletics, chess and drama, but don't expect all that to run in the first week! From the start Mark impressed us all, advisers, governors, teachers and staff, with his warm, caring personality and great sense of humour. He clearly has great respect for children and the learning process and is committed to high standards of behaviour and to education in its widest sense. He has Christian values at the heart of everything he does and the governors and staff are confident that he will lead the school forward sensitively and positively. Judging by the response so far, Mr Stratta can be assured of a warm welcome to Burton Bradstock and the full support of children, parents, staff and governors when he arrives. I am delighted that Mark is to be my successor. On the occasions that I have met him, both personally and professionally, I have seen in him all of the qualities that Hil outlined in her letter. I feel content that as I set out on a challenging journey in January the school that is so dear to my heart will be in such good hands. Very best wishes David Powell BRIDE VALLEY SCOUT GROUP An exciting new programme of activities has been arranged for the Scout Group. New members are always welcome - why not come along and see what we do? Beavers (6-8 yrs Boys) - Tuesdays from 6.00pm-7.30pm. Leaders: Denise and Richard Hunt (Tel: 458007) Cubs (8-10 yrs Boys) - Mondays from 6.30pm-8.00pm. Leader: Mark Davies (Tel: 459358) Scouts (10 yrs plus Boys & Girls) - Wednesdays from 7.00pm-9.00pm. Leader: Geoff Truscott (Tel: 897058) Meetings are held at the Scout Hut, Shipton Lane, Burton Bradstock, unless otherwise arranged. If you have any queries or can offer help, please contact Pat Tucker (Tel: 897197). Thorner's School, Litton Cheney Later this month we will be holding our November Fair, do come along and join in the fun. Life at school does need to have an element of fun for pupils to be happy and learn, we all need some fun in our lives. Recently we had a football tournament, playing matches against both Burton Bradstock and St. Catherine's school, both were able to field a fair few boys .... our teams contained a high proportion of girls due to the fact we are lacking a quantity of boys at the higher end of the age range. I think that all the children played well and even if we did not win they enjoyed the afternoon, taking part as a team, working together and encouraging each other made me feel very proud of them. Well done. We are now looking forward to the cluster cross country competition which will be run at Symondsbury on Saturday the 9th November, here the children have the opportunity to run as part of a team as well as individuals. The course consists of a circular mile: I sometimes wonder if they run for fun, just to slip and slide in the mud! Last year's event took place on a glorious sunny morning so let's hope that is repeated this year. As a school we did very well and I am sure that some of the children will be running to defend their titles. Best of luck to all runners. Alison Johnstone Headteacher. 100 Club winners £15 Mr. Thacker £10 Mrs M. Wakely
Ladybirds Thorner's School is the venue for this month's meeting on Wednesday November 13th at 8.00 pm. Rosemary Pitcher and Evelyn Toogood will demonstrate some Christmas Crafts. NOTICE OF EXTRAORDINARY MEETING THIS MONTH: We are honoured that Mr Mchael Dooley, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, has agreed to give a talk to "Ladybirds" entitled "Is HRT Redundant?" Mr Dooley first spoke to us about HRT in September 1993. At the time he was a strong advocate of HRT, but he will be discussing with us why he has revised his views. We are delighted to welcome him on TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 26th at 8.00 pm. For further information ring Ursula Bayer on 482252.
Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal 2002 FLANDERS IS NOW A DISTANT MEMORY- so WHERE DOES THE POPPY MONEY GO? Last year it spent £41 million looking after young soldiers injured in such recent conflicts as the Gulf and Bosnia as well as:- · accommodation in seven residential care homes. · care in three convalescent units · home visits to long term sick and housebound. · free advice and help over war disablement and war widows pensions · holidays for severely disabled people · help for those who would like to visit a relative's war grave · individual grants for those in need · employment for ex-service people, many disabled, within the Legion and its related companies · advice and financial support to ex-service people wanting to start a business · help for ex-service people in finding jobs and courses to equip them in civil life. Our hardworkiug collectors will he calling at your house or workplace. Please give generously The Remembrance Service will he held at St. Martin's Church, Shipton Gorge, on Sunday 10th November 2002 commencing at 10.45 am sharp. The Pilgrimage around the Valley's war memorials and War Graves will commence at 10.00am on Saturday 9th November 2002, meeting at St. Mary's Church, Burton Bradstock.
ROYAL BRITISH LEGION - WOMEN'S SECTION THURSDAY 7th NOVEMBER. 10.30 a.m. to noon W.I. HALL Burton Bradstock COFFEE MORNING in aid of the Bride Valley Poppy Appeal. Cakes, Stalls, Raffle Admission 50p to include coffee/tea and biscuits. also:- FRIDAY 22nd NOVEMBER. W. I. HALL 7.30 pm. CONCERT by ST. SWITHUN'S BAND in of the Bride Valley Poppy Appeal. Admission £3.00
The Bride Valley Bowls Club ( Short mat bowls ) We have just started our autumn session and anyone wishing to learn or renew their interest is welcome. The club meets at the White Horse Inn, Litton Cheney every Thursday at 7.30pm. Valerie Martin
See Page 13 for details of the Burton Bradstock Bowls Club held on Mondays.
National Needlework Register There is a National Scheme to record all pieces of "needlework" that are in the public domain. This project is to ensure a national register of work that might be in any public building, church, or civic building and will enhance the research value of narrative and community needlework. There is also a special listing for works carried out to celebrate the Millennium. Do please, if you know of such work, either contact the National Needlework Register, tel. 02380 791066 direct or I can supply you with more information or forms. Thank you. Anna Lovell 897322 Long Bredy & Litton Cheney W.I. are having a "Care and Restoration of Antiques" evening at Long Bredy Village Hall, Tuesday 5th November, 7:30pm. The speaker is Mr Tom Baldry and admission £1.50. Bride Valley Gardening Club The next meeting is on 11th November at 7.30pm when Catherine Crouch, the B.B.C. Gardener of the Year will be speaking at Thorner's School. Mothers' Union The meeting will be held at 1, Lytton Close, Puncknowle on Thursday 28th November at 2.30pm. Mrs. Janet Belton, our Deanery Chairman, is coming to talk to us.
Bible Society Annual Lecture The Rev'd Dr. Ian Bradley ( Reader in Practical Theology and Church History, School of Divinity, University of St. Andrew's ) will deliver this year's lecture on "God Save the Queen - the Spiritual Dimension of the Monarchy" in St. Mary's Church, South Street, Bridport, on Monday, 4th November at 7.30pm. Open to all- an opportunity to attend an event which promises to be very interesting. SOCIETY of RECORDER PLAYERS The West Dorset branch of SOCIETY of RECORDER PLAYERS meets every month in Burton Bradstock W.I. Hall. This group of players grew out of the recorder classes held by the W.I. leader Catherine Greenhill, back in 1979! Each month, we play a variety of music with different conductors and sometimes combine with other instruments, too. Now the group is looking for more recorder players to come along and join in the consort. If you play the recorder, know someone who does or would like to learn, please contact the secretary, Sue, on 01308 897592 for more details. ******REMINDER****** BVN JANUARY 2003 As the Editor needs all copy in by Thursday 5th December please hand in your articles to your correspondent in good time. Thank You.
Village Correspondent Mr Basil Dent 2, Norburton, Burton Bradstock. Tel:- (01308) 897125 Mid Week Worship - Holy Communion Wednesdays at 10.00 a.m. followed by coffee in the Rectory
Choir Practices Fridays at 6.00 p.m. Bell Ringing Practices Thursdays at 7.00pm Gift Sunday 10th November R.B.L. Poppy Appeal
The next Tiny Tots/Pram Service will be held on Friday 15th November at 11.00 am.
The next Healing Services at St Mary's will be held on Monday 25th November and Wednesday 8th January 2003, each at 7.00 pm. The Parochial Church Council next meets on Monday 18th November at 7.00 pm in church. All Saints' Day Fri. 1st November 7.00 pm Holy Communion (Order 1). All Souls' Day Sat. 2nd November 10.00 am Holy Communion (Order 2) - a Requiem Mass (Commemoration of the Faithful Departed).
Parish Communion Thanksgiving Service for the Financial Appeal Sunday 24th November 11.00 am
Christingle Service Sunday 24th November 5.30 pm
Advent Carol Service Sunday 1st December 6.30 pm
POSADA (A Spanish word meaning 'lnn' ) TRAVELLING CRIB The idea of Posada originates in Mexico where people dress up as Mary and Joseph, going from house to house telling people about Jesus and asking for a room. As part of our Advent preparation we are again inviting all households in our congregations to make room for the figures of Mary and Joseph from our Christmas Crib. Each of us will make room for them for one night or more and then take them on to another home, so that by Christmas Eve Mary and Joseph will have travelled around the parish, eventually being brought to the Crib Service in the church by the final hosts. Each household needs to prepare a place for the figures. A small night light or candle could be lit. A few short prayers can be said, which will be provided. Simple refreshments could be offered (squash, coffee, biscuits, mince pies). On Advent Sunday, 1st December, at the Family Service, Mary and Joseph will be presented to the first family for their joumey around the village. In this way we will prepare ourselves to make room for our Lord in our hearts and homes at Christmas, not just as individuals and families but together as a Christian community. Please add your name to the list on the table in the south aisle if you wish to take part. If you would like more details, please have a word with Pam Atkinson. FROM THE PARISH REGISTERS Funeral 23 rd September Eileen G. Amiss Burial of Ashes 23rd September Eileen G. Amiss Thanksgiving for the Life of Myra J. Tall 9th October St. Mary's Financial Appeal We would like to express our grateful thanks to Steve of Hive Beach Cafe, Saj of Burton Bradstock Cars and Sarah & Adrian of The Three Horseshoes for their very generous support for St.Mary's. Please see the advertising section of this issue of The B.V.N. for details of how you can contribute to their fund raising activities. John Atkinson Christmas Greetings for St. Mary's Church Funds You may remember that in the January 2002 edition of the B.V.N. we suggested, in order to raise money, we should give our readers the opportunity of sending local Christmas greetings by way of the magazine. Instead of individuals buying, writing out and posting (or taking) Christmas Cards to all their local friends and neighbours, we now offer a new scheme whereby you make a donation towards St. Mary's Church Funds in return for which we would list contributors' names on a dedicated page in the BVN below a collective Christmas greeting message to friends and neighbours, ( sadly, we would not be able to include individual messages ) thus obviating the need to send Christmas cards locally. If you would like to participate, please give Ken Pett (01308 897 550) your name/s and donation ( we suggest, as a guideline, this might be the equivalent of what you might have spent on buying and posting your local cards ). Cheques should be made payable to St. Mary's P.C.C. Ken needs this information as soon as possible, but no later than 12th November, in order to catch the deadline for the December issue. He will then forward the list to the Editor. We are most grateful to Ken for suggesting the idea and being willing to organise the list, especially at a time when St. Mary's so desperately needs our financial support. BURTON BRADSTOCK W.I. President Joan Dady welcomed members and visitors to the October meeting. She introduced Mrs M. Etherington who is a voluntary organiser for Save the Children Fund - the leading children's charity. The history of the fund, which was started by Eglantyne and Dorothy Jebb in 1919, was shown on slides. She explained there are over 20 million children homeless in the world today, some living in severe poverty on under 70p a day. The Fund has ongoing projects far and wide from Newcastle to Afganistan; where children are in need, they are there. Badminton continues on a Monday at 2.30pm, tapestry & needlecrafts on alternate Thursdays at 2.00pm and W.I. walk on Tues. 19th November. Bridge classes have proved popular as has the reading group led by Heather Thomson. A computer course will start in January. The Christmas Coffee morning is on Saturday 30th November at 10.30am. Stalls include Gifts, Cakes, Produce, Raffle etc. Entrance 50p to include coffee & mince pie. Chris Clarke Burton Bradstock Short Mat Bowls Club Come and join us on Monday evenings in the Burton Bradstock W.I. Hall at 7.00pm. Equipment provided - only flat soled footwear needed - beginners welcome. 'Phone 897403. Bob Dubrey HOME WATCH Winter is almost upon us, and I would remind all residents of the need for special security in their homes. Our Home Watch scheme continues to be successful in deterring the potential thief. If you are out after dark. arrange for light(s) to come on at dusk by using an interrupter or delay switch, preferably in a room with curtains drawn. Our local Police are always happy to advise on home security and can be contacted direct on Bridport 422266 or Beaminster 862222. It is again necessary to draw your attention to dishonest workmen. They deceive the more vulnerable in our society by extorting large sums of money as payment for minor or inferior work to roof repairs, tree/hedge cutting and drive repairs. All door-step callers should be treated with caution. Use your door chain and ask for identification, leaving your door chain on while checking details with employer or police. If work is required, householders are advised to obtain written quotations from reliable local tradesmen. Items should not be sold to visiting antiques or other dealers calling. New residents may obtain HOME WATCH stickers from their local co-ordinators, whose name can be found in the Post Office, the Bridge Cottage Stores, or on the Parish notice board in the village. Stickers should be prominently displayed, clearly visible to anyone approaching the property. Freddy Tame
BURTON BRADSTOCK VILLAGE SOCIETY The first meeting of the new season got off to a flying start on 20th Sept when an almost full house was enthralled by the colour slides of Colin Varndell in his presentation of the 'Seasons of Colour'. The audience was treated to a wonderful selection of quality images of birds insects, reptiles, trees, plants and countryside, all taken throughout the seasons and mainly shot within the realms of West Dorset. We were all surprised to learn that some of the best and most colourful shots are taken in dull and wet weather and there is evidence to show that global warming may be having an effect on the numbers and habitats of some of our wildlife. Peter Dutton.
Getting Started with E-mails and using the Internet Have you ever fancied collecting gardening tips from experts, booking a bargain holiday, researching your family tree or participating in an auction all without travelling further than Burton Bradstock? Of course, those of you with an Internet connection can do all of those things without even travelling outside your own homes. Now that the Reading Room facility has been supplemented by 2 computers with Intemet access in Burton Bradstock Library, why not come and fmd out how to use them to pursue your interests? A 4-session programme for people interested in starting to use the Internet or sending e-mails has been arranged to start on Friday 15th November and will run until Friday 6th December from 10.00am - 12 noon. The training sessions will he held in the Bridport Foyer, West Allington, Bridport - a wonderful opportunity to use local facilities where all computers are directly connected to the Internet. The course has been organised by Burton Bradstock Website Committee and will be delivered by an experienced trainer from Weymouth College. Places will be operated on a first-come, first-served basis. The cost of the course will be £15 for the 4-session programme. You can request a place by e-mailing Karen Venn on venn@cwcom.net or by telephoning (01308) 897094. Karen Venn Badminton Due to the lack of numbers the badminton sessions held on Wednesdays from 2.00pm - 4.00pm have been cancelled. To make it viable at least eight people are required ( £1.50 per session ). Are you interested - men and women - in playing? If so, please contact Peter Colbert on 897922.
Thank You for the Harvest Festival gift from the children of Burton Bradstock School and from St. Mary's Church. Their good wishes and generosity are very much appreciated. Arthur Ankrett
Burton Bradstock Village Web Site Address www.burton bradstock.org.uk Did you know that the Bride Valley News is published on this web site every month? In addition, did you know that old copies of the magazine can also be viewed on the web site? Village Correspondent: Mrs.Joy White Eastcote 3 Gullivers Orchard Shipton Gorge Tel(01308)897974 The Parochial Church Council meets on Wednesday 20th November at 7.00 pm at Church View.
Holy Communion (Modern Order, with hymns) Thanksgiving Service for the Financial Appeal Sunday 24th November 9.30 am FROM THE PARISH REGISTERS Burial of Ashes 3rd October Doreen R. Glyde
DORSET HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST Three cyclists from Shipton Gorge took part in this event on Saturday 14th September. Many thanks to all our sponsors, whose generosity raised £400, half of which will benefit St. Martins Church at this critical time financially for all our parish churches. Bob, Janet and Penny WORLD'S BIGGEST COFFEE MORNING This event was held at "Penfold " on Friday 27th September and £111.65 was raised, thanks to the generosity of our Bride Valley Supporters. Grateful thanks also to Bettie and Gillian for all their help on the morning. Brian and Janet Lane ST. MARTIN'S HARVEST FESTIVAL We were blessed with fine weather when over 50 people attended this special service in our beautifully decorated church on Sunday 6th October. The Rector dedicated four Golden Jubilee Kneelers, the refurbished tower steps, weather vane and the scroll commemorating the late Jack Willy's 60 years as Church Warden and Treasurer. The Churchwardens GUIDE DOGS FOR THE BLIND ASSOCIATION The Coffee Morning held in the Village Hall on Saturday 5th October was a great success and raised over £430; donations are still coming in. Many thanks to all our helpers; to those who provided cakes and plants etc. and to all who supported this event by giving so generously. Brian and Janet Lane Pre Christmas Get Together This year's pre Christmas get together will be held in the village hall on Sunday 24th November from midday onwards. All villagers are invited and are asked to bring a bottle and some eats. We look forward to seeing you all. If you require further details please contact Christine or Robert Cornish on 897833.
Artsreach GOSFORD PARK (Certificate 12). We are pleased to present, as part of our Artsreach programme, the acclaimed film Gosford Park on Wednesday 20th November. Please note that the start time is 7.00 pm as this is a longer film than normal so there will be an interval for refreshments. This has been one of the big hits of the year. The story concerns a murder in a large country house in the 1930's (Tea at Four, Dinner at Eight, Murder at Midnight!). However, it is the observation of human behaviour amongst the aristocratic guests and the servants 'below stairs' which makes the film so fascinating. The film is effectively directed by veteran film maker Robert Altman and performed by a truly amazing star cast: Maggie Smith, Helen Mirran, Kristian Scott Thomas, Eileen Atkins, Alan Bates, Jeremy Northam and Stephen Fry to name but a few. The costumes, decor and sense of period are all quite splendid. The film won an Oscar for best screenplay by Julian Fellowes (about to join us as a Dorset resident). Gosford Park guarantees a wonderful evening's entertainment and, as always, it is a film to be seen on the big wide screen. As usual, tickets are available in advance from the New Inn, Shipton Gorge, members of the Hall Committee and by ringing 01308 897547. With limited availability early booking is recommended.
Shipton Hall 100 Club Winners for the October Draw:- £20 No.21 John Huxtable £10 No.69 Colin Chambers
Christmas Carol Service on Saturday 21st December at 6.30 pm. Village Correspondent: Sid Marshall 3 Green Barton, Swyre
Harvest Thanksgiving We had a lovely Harvest Evensong on 6th October, and as well as thanking God for his goodness year by year, enjoyed brilliant displays of flowers and produce which were taken to the Pilsdon Community (who were extremely thankful). Church Quinquennial Inspection This took place on 10th October. We await its findings with trepidation. Anthony Ashwell A reminder that for this coming wintertime ( November to March ), the first Sunday Evening Prayer Services will be at 3.00p.m. and not at the usual time of 6.30p.m. Thus our November 3rd Evensong will now be at 3.00p.m.
WEST DORSET ME SUPPORT GROUP A fund raising Coffee Morning and Bring and Buy is being held at 1 Green Barton, Swyre, on November 9 th 10.30 - 12.30. All Welcome Hazel Stirgess DORSET AIR AMBULANCE The coffee morning held at the Bull Inn on 21st September raised a magnificent sum of £663-50. This brings the total so far raised to £3540-50. Many thanks to all the ladies who baked cakes for us and to all those who came along and spent so well. Big thanks to Peter, Margaret, Joyce, Val, Abbi, and Carol for giving up their time to help us on the day and to Julie and Ivor for putting up the signs around the village. Your support is greatly appreciated. Carol and Brian A Huge Thank You This is just a quick note to say a massive thank you to all my friends who gave me such a fantastic surprise party. I was completely bowled over by the number of people who dropped in to wish me well in my new life at university. I was very touched by all the hard work of so many to make it such a fabulous event and to keep it secret ( I honestly had no idea ). I also received many gifts and cards, some of which I do not know who they were from, so thank you whoever you are! I have now started my teaching degree at King Alfred's Winchester and so far it is going well. I hope to see many of you in the near future when I am home for a weekend. Take care and thank you once again. Avril Yeates SWYRE COMMUNITY FUND Following the success of the Archaeological Dig a group of us have decided we would like to continue fundraising for village projects and organisations within our community. The 'millennium fund' will become the 'Swyre Community Fund' and our aim is to have a great time raising monies for causes within our community. To this end our first event will be a get-together for everyone at Christmas. We are calling the evening a "Christmas Cracker". This will be held on Saturday 7th December and the Bull has kindly offered us the use of their Skittles room. The evening will take the form of an American Supper (each household brings a plate of appropriate food). We will be holding a raffle in aid of the Air Ambulance. This evening is for all the family, we hope you will all attend and have a great time. You should all have received your invitation through the door. If not contact one of us on the following numbers, Madeline 897318, Margaret 898167 or Julie 897003. We would be grateful if you could RSVP so we can get an idea of numbers etc. Madeline, Margaret and Julie ARCHAEOLOGY EVENINGS In February, Dr Northover has kindly offered to present the findings of the archaeology weekend. This will be held on two evenings over a couple of weekends to accommodate everyone who wants to attend. As yet we do not have a venue but we hope to be able to present the video footage obtained from Meridian and edited by Dr Northover. There will be a chance to see some of the finds that have now been pieced together and an opportunity to sign up for 2003. The National Archaeology Weekend will be the 19th and 20th July. I would like to take this opportunity of thanking Peter for funding the dig and enabling us all to find out more about our villages. It was brilliant to see our 10 minutes of fame on TV last week. In accordance with Dr Northover's wishes the Millennium Fund has donated the funds raised from the archaeological dig to Swyre Church. Julie Lewis Puncknowle and Swyre Parish Council This month's Parish Council meeting on the 5th will be setting the precept for the forthcoming year. We will also be discussing the future status of the playing field. POLICE COMMUNITY VEHICLE As we have not yet had a new timetable for the vehicle at time of going to print would you please see the notice boards for the date and time of the Community Vehicle for November. Julie Lewis
Village Correspondent: Mrs Dorothy Barlow Collingbourne, Hoopers Lane, Puncknowle Telephone: (01308) 897761
From the Registers Holy Baptism 8th September 2002 Jordan Jack Neill Ollie's extremely well behaved little brother. 6th October 2002 Jason Christopher Larcombe George Edward Larcombe Two lovely brothers from Labour-in-Vain Farm. Harvest Thanksgiving The Service went off well on September 15th and in my address I extolled the virtues of a stinging nettle (nice soup), the nasturtium (pot seeds), and the foxglove (good medicine). One wouldn't think of those normally as good harvest materials, but Alleluia, they are. Afterwards the Pilsdon Community was extremely thankful to receive our gifts. Eric Arnott Eric will celebrate his 90th birthday on 12th November! Confirmation We are to have a Bishop in our village! On Thursday evening 14th November, Bishop Tim (of Sherborne) will be coming to the church to confirm nine people from our village and one from Long Bredy (see also under Valley Notes). Our candidates comprise one grandfather, one father and seven young people: a real Puncknowle Harvest. The Service begins at 7.00pm and all, but particularly church-members, are most welcome to support and pray for our nine. We then adjourn to: Confirmation Candidates' First Communion This will take place at our 11 o'clock Service on 17th November, which will not be a 'Puncknowle Prayer' Service but a normal Parish Communion. Harvest Supper This will follow the Confirmation at about 8.15pm and will be in the hall, when the Bishop will sign cards and enjoy our company and a Harvest Supper. Bishop Tim is quite delightful, a real breath of fresh air, and we are privileged to have him as our guest-of-honour. But we need help with catering - please see Ann Robert's article. Anthony Ashwell THE POSTPONED HARVEST GATHERING WILL NOW TAKE PLACE AFTER THE CONFIRMATION SERVICE. AS IT WILL BE LATER IN THE EVENING, THERE WILL BE LIGHT REFRESHMENTS WITH WINE, NON ALCOHOLIC DRINKS, TEA AND COFFEE. PLEASE CONTACT ANN ROBERTS 897716 ABOUT CONTRIBUTIONS OR DONATIONS Bride Valley Fledglings
First of all I would like to welcome our new children this term, these being:-James Burns, Wilfie Jevons, Daniel Fournier, Jack Cox and Kieran Baxter. Secondly I would like to welcome our New Committee, without whom the Play-group could not run. Chairperson - Mandy Wilkinson, Vice-Chair - Coo Jones, Treasurer - Alison Ward, Secretary - Caroline Cox and the other parents who will be serving on the committee. Thirdly, I refer to the slight staff changes; as most of you know, I stepped down as Chairperson and applied for the play-assistant/administrator position back in the spring. I hope I am settling into the roles. I have just started doing my Diploma in Pre-school Practice to keep me busy. Thank you to all those who sold and bought our 'A Little Bit Of Dorset' quiz. We sold 158 copies, and made a net profit of £133.00. The winners were Mr and Mrs Riglar of Bradpole, the runner up being Mr Wilton of Wimbome. Lastly, it seems I have been advertising our Christmas Bingo with the wrong date, the correct date being:- Christmas Bingo Friday 22nd November 7.00 pm, eyes down at 7.30 pm [if anyone has any donations for the bingo, please bring them along to play-group or call me on the number below, thank you] P.S. If anyone is wishing their child to come to play-group during the next school year, please can they contact me, so their names can be added to the waiting list. Thank you. Sue Talbot [Administrator]
Puncknowle and Swyre Parish Council This month's Parish Council meeting on the 5th will be setting the precept for the forthcoming year. We will also be discussing the future status of the playing field. POLICE COMMUNITY VEHICLE As we have not yet had a new timetable for the vehicle at time of going to print would you please see the notice boards for the date and time of the Community Vehicle for November. Andy Marshall WALKERS' LAMENT WALKING ALONG TO CATCH ON A RAINY DAY DRIVERS PLEASE SPARE A THOUGHT FOR THOSE OF US WHO HAPPILY TRAVEL THIS WAY BUT NOT SO WHEN IT'S POURING DOWN. CARS SLASH BY AND WE ALMOST DROWN SO WHEN IT RAINS REDUCE YOUR SPEED THEN TO MOAN ABOUT DRIVERS THERE'LL BE NO NEED. THANK YOU JEANNE BUNYAN Puncknowle Art Group The weather has been kind to us for our last two meetings. We all enjoyed a sunny morning's painting at Mangerton Mill with coffee in the coffee shop. The sun shone again when we spent the day making paper in Sallie's garage. The water flowed neatly under the door and we were able to spread her patio with newspaper and soggy rhubarb pulp. Proudly the results were taken home in car boots. All should have dried by next meeting. Nov.1st - a talk by local artist Cece Mills, 15th marbling at Doreen Prints with Sallie. Christine Molony Don't forget to check the village website www.puncknowle.org.uk to keep in touch with village events and find useful information
Village Correspondents: Mrs. Elizabeth Kingston, 5 Manor Farm Close Tel.482384
Harvest Thanksgiving The church was doubly decorated for our Service on 22nd September, with gifts from the village and gifts from the school. The latter did particularly well, for much of their produce was in tins, especially pleasing to the Pilsdon Community's 'moving-on' house in Dorchester, who were the recipients and who were extremely thankful but who are not skilled in preparing fresh vegetables. Remembrance Sunday Our usual Matins Service will begin at 10.55am to allow time for a short Act of Remembrance around the War Memorial. Retired Army Chaplain, the Revd Derek Heaver, will lead the Service. Anthony Ashwell
Litton Cheney Village Society The Autumn meeting will be on Tuesday 26th November at Thorner's School at 8.00pm. Paul Kingston will present another Slide Show and talk, this time about his travels in Central and South America and the area's fascinating cultures, natural wonders and remains of ancient civilizations. Litton Cheney Playing Field Association A big THANK YOU to all those who supported the Family Fun Day on Sunday 15th September. The winners of the family and fun football tournament were The Eastern End Cougars and the winners of the junior tournament were Beryl's Kickers. Another enjoyable day at the playing field when over £500 was raised . We are also pleased that the hard standing area and basketball goal are now installed. We are very grateful for all the support we have received including donations from The Bride Valley Young Farmers, The Crown Puncknowle Fundraisers, Litton Cheney Social Committee and Village Society and awards from Dorset Community Action and WDDC Leisure Development Fund. We received the Basketball goal from Sport England's Lottery Sports Fund Outdoor Basketball Initiative sponsored by Adidas. We are hoping to have an official opening in the Spring. Litton Cheney Social Committee Our next event is Carol singing around the village on December 19th in aid of Naomi House Children's Hospice. Meet at the bus shelter at 6.00pm - carol sheets provided. There will be music, but if you are able to play an instrument please bring it along. Children most welcome. Kathy Kourik LCSC Secretary We hope that Debby, Mel, Amy, Blake and Christina Longman will be very happy in their new home Court Close. Many people are thinking about Keith, Sheila and Jamie Barnes as we all hope John continues to make slow but steady progress in the Intensive Care Unit in Dorchester Hospital. Pearl & Charlie Trott wish to express their thanks to all who helped to make Charlie's 80th Party go with such a swing, much enhanced by the wonderful gifts and cards. It is difficult, and in some sense wrong, to particularize; but, in addition to the family efforts, we have to give special mention to David & Jan Hearn and Rosie Hallett. We hope everyone had an enjoyable time...we did ! Our guests did much to set the tone. Please could the correspondent receive all items for December's BVN by Wednesday 6th November & a reminder that copy for the January BVN must be in the hands of the editor by 5th December
www.littoncheney.org.uk Visit the web site for the latest news. The group meets at The White Horse Inn at 8 o'clock on the first Monday of each month. All welcome.
FROM THE PARISH REGISTERS
Holy Baptism 29th September 2002 Archie William Flynn Dunbar All babies are special, and Archie was especially special. I could have cuddled him the whole Service without a whimper (from him). Harvest Thanksgiving About fifty local people came to our Service on the morning of 6th October, to be greeted by a superbly decorated church and plenteous gifts to take to the Chancery House Day Centre in Bridport. We had a special Order of Service (on green paper of course), a guest speaker (James Greener on leave from his fascinating job in China), and so much to thank God for, as well as the many people who provided, arranged and decorated. Anthony Ashwell Harvest Festival was celebrated on 6th October. The church was beautifully decorated with autumn flowers, fruit and vegetables, and the large congregation sang loudly in praise and thanksgiving. Gifts were presented by children and many thanks go to them as well as everyone who organised, decorated and took part in this uplifting service. Chancery House Daycare Centre were most grateful to receive all the produce and gifts. Trevor and Elizabeth Toogood are happy to announce the arrival of a grand-daughter, Charlotte Rebecca, born on September 18th to Kim and Tom.
Michaelmas Celebration I'm sure Sir Philip will be saying something about this in his notes, but suffice it to say that from my point of view, the Service was a privilege to lead and the Supper a pleasure to eat. My thanks to all who helped at the Service, and especially to the individuals and organisations who have contributed so generously to our new bells, north aisle floor and south aisle roof. Anthony Ashwell LITTLEBREDY NOTES There was the predictably huge congregation in Church on Michaelmas Day for the very moving service which combined the Patronal Festival with Harvest Festival and the re-dedication of restored areas of the building, and especially the new bells and clock. All these elements combined to form a memorable celebration, which was followed by an equally enjoyable Harvest Supper for the congregation and others in the Village Hall. Thanks and congratulations to all who contributed to either event - a real red-letter day in the Littlebredy story. A further step forward since then has been the new curtains in the Hall. Thanks, of course, to the team which made and hung them. The Hall is a more colourful place as a result. The bells have also since rung out in celebration of the Christening of Laura Buckland, a fourth grandchild but first granddaughter for John & Sandra March, who was baptised here on the 20th October. May her life continue in the warmth of the welcome she had when she was received into the Church. Jennifer Longstaff would like to record her thanks to those whose generosity reaped nearly £80.00 for the Marie Curie Foundation in the recent house-to-house collection. Now for the future. Villagers will have received a notice of the Social Club's celebration of Guy Fawkes Day. On the 5th November itself, the bonfire will be lit on the green at 6.30 p.m., with fireworks to follow at 7.00 p.m. Everyone attending is asked to bring a big firework and their own drinks. Hot dogs, etc., will be available for sale, and there will be competitions for the youngsters: fancy dress, the best guy, and the best Hallowe'en pumpkin It should be a really good evening, to which everyone is welcome. The Club's next events are envisaged as a Christmas Party and a pantomime trip, both of which are being organized. Details will follow in due course.
Editor: Susan Paul Windy Gap Shipton Lane Burton Bradstock DT6 4NQ
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