FROM THE CLERGY           

"We wish you a merry Christmas, we wish you a merry Christmas..."

And so Anna and I do, to all our readers, and to all who receive this little mag but don't read it, (who are those, I hear you ask).  But I wonder what we are wishing you, for according to my 'New Collins Thesaurus' the word 'merry' has three meanings. 

First and most appropriately from my point of view it is a description of festive feelings, such as glad, gleeful or happy, cheerful, jolly or joyful.  Words such as these fill our Christmas Carols, and there is always 'God rest ye merry gentlemen' not often sung nowadays, presumably because it's seen as not very inclusive and may refer more to the second meaning of 'merry'.  This latter describes a happy state of alcoholic inebriation, with synonyms such as squiffy, tipsy, tiddly, even mellow, but not the same as plastered or _ _ _ _ _ _ (it rhymes with missed), which words have little to do with happiness.  Finally 'merry' can be another word for funny or comic or humorous or hilarious, and perhaps here is a connection with Christmas pantos. 

Are we then wishing you a happy or jolly Christmas-time, or a tipsy, silly one, or a funny entertaining one?  Well we do wish you good partying and fantastic evenings at shows, but as expressions of the best merriment of all : the sincere celebration of the greatest event - the Birth of Jesus Christ, the Son of God our Creator, who sent his child to live among his beloved creation and to be at one with them.  So it's the first 'merry' that is the winner, the merriment of deep happiness and festive jollity, when we accept our invitation to come to the Crib to worship Jesus Christ, the new-born King, and give thanks to God that He so loved the world. 

I really do hope that most of us will be able to be merry this Christmas, but the huge sadness is that it will be a minority of the world's population who will be so, because there are so many who either do not know about Christmas or who live under conditions that make jolly festivities impossible.  In our merriment let us never forget the wider family of the world. 

"We wish you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year". 

Anthony Ashwell and all the Bride Valley Churches

Our new Team Rector

Every month I will try to give a report on the progress towards a replacement for John Atkinson, who is (with Pam of course) happily settling in at Ledbury.  Apparently he hasn't forgotten how to put up shelves.  However, back to the point...

Here is the timetable outlined by the Archdeacon for the appointment process:

Advertisement in 'Church Times'                      28^th Nov & 5^th Dec 2003

Closing date for applications                             9^th Jan 2004

Short-listing                                                      12^th Jan 2004

Interviews                                                         29^th Jan 2004

Offer and (hopefully) acceptance                       early Feb 2004

Induction and Institution                                    late May 2004

Six of the nine individuals involved in the process live in the Bride Valley, amongst them one 'historic' patron (Sir Philip Williams) and the 'acting' Rural Dean (guess who?). 

2004 Weddings

So far I have six weddings booked: one at Puncknowle, one at Burton Bradstock, one at Shipton Gorge, two at Litton Cheney and one at Littlebredy.  Of these only two couples have residual connections with the Bride Valley.  If any couples are wavering, why not make the commitment and jump?                                                Anthony Ashwell

Tiny Tots / Pram Service  The next service will be on Friday 5^th December at 11 am at St Mary's, Burton Bradstock.

Bride Valley ( Wednesday ) Bible Study Group

We continue our course of studies on Philippians; these studies will take us up to beginning of the Lent Course.  Sessions begin at 7.30pm and last up to two hours.

Session VII     What are you trusting in?     Phil. Ch.3  vv. 1- 11

Dec   3             The Old Rectory, Litton Cheney

Dec 10             7, Norburton,  Burton Bradstock

THE BRIDE VALLEY (THURSDAY) FELLOWSHIP GROUP

The group meets on Thursday evenings and alternates between Prayer and Bible Study.  Arriving from 7.30pm we begin at 8.00pm aiming to finish by about 9.30pm.  All are most welcome. For further details contact Paul ..., Tel ...

December 4     Bible Study, Matthew 5.31-32, and 19.3-11                                                                                         6 Baglake, Litton Cheney

December 11  Prayer                                       2 Myrtle Close, Puncknowle    

December 18                                                   No meeting

Mothers' Union       

Thursday 4^th December - 12.45pm   Christmas Lunch at "Oh Crumbs"

Monday 8^th December - 2.30pm   Carol Service at Beaminster

Yvette Smith     898219

Burton Bradstock CE VC School

December already - Christmas Fair (on Saturday 6^th - everyone is invited so please come and join us); Professor Crackerbang and Tilly Trouble entertaining Key Stage 1; and our final flurry of play performances, parties and carols around the Christmas tree.  This is always an exciting time of the year, yet also a demanding one for us all.  The additional pressures brought about at work and at home mean that the season of 'Peace and goodwill to all men' has the capacity to leave us all rather frayed at the edges!  Nevertheless we'll do our best to keep spirits up whilst remaining focussed on the tasks in hand. 

As a church school we maintain links with Salisbury Diocese and at the end of last month I enjoyed a day conference for new Headteachers.  We receive support for the development of Collective Worship and Religious Education within school and are also most grateful for the continuing liaison we have with St. Mary's Church.  This month Mr Mike Read is following an Advent theme in assemblies in the run up to Christmas.

I can hardly believe that by the end of this term I will have completed a full year here, or that the children who so ably gave me a guided tour of the school 15 months ago are now themselves settled into secondary education.  The last year has seen some significant changes in our staffing and we are now settling into a new phase in the life of the school.  There continues to be 'never a dull moment', so when the Christmas break eventually arrives I'm looking forward to time spent with my family, some quiet even boring moments, and one particular seasonal ritual - jigsaw puzzles.  (You may think it sad - but I shall be in my element!)    

Mark Stratta.

100 Club

October winners were:

£20      E. Crooke

£10      C. Arscott

  £5      A. Maude

Thorner's CE VA Primary School

Firstly can I thank everyone who came to our November Fayre, a great success enjoyed by all who were there.  Well done to all 'helpers', both adults and pupils, without your support we could not raise the extra funds to buy those non essential items that makes our school the individual, happy, friendly place it is.  Hopefully you will have heard how the money is to be spent for the benefit of your children.  I look back on the four years I have been at Thorner's and am amazed that School Association have bought so much and had such an impact on the resources available to our pupils, mainly the musical items and playground games which have been purchased particularly as these are so evident everyday.  Thank you for all your dedication and determination to provide those extra items for school, it is much appreciated by all the pupils.

As Christmas approaches we seem to get busier, preparing for the 'usual' events that we associate with the end of the Autumn Term.  We are practising for our Christmas Concert on Tuesday 16^th December (starting at 6.30pm) all parents, families and friends are invited to come along.  The Church service will be on Thursday 18^th December starting at 9.30am, if weather permits, again families and friends are invited to join us.  Thursday 18^th December is also the afternoon when we will be inviting all our volunteer helpers to join us for tea and cakes, as our way of saying thank you for all the hours they have given to the pupils, in listening to reading, working alongside pupils in Design and Technology or raising funds.  Without you school would be a poorer place.

We hope that you all enjoy the festive season, Happy Christmas and best wishes for the New Year.  See you next year.

Alison Johnstone

Headteacher

First Steps Parent and Toddler Group will be holding an Extraordinary General Meeting on Monday 1^st December at 7.45 pm in Long Bredy Village Hall.  All very welcome for mulled wine and mince pies!

Our Wednesday sessions will continue in December until Wednesday 17^th December, the last session before Christmas and resume in the New Year on Wednesday 7^th January.

First Steps Parent and Toddler Group meets on Wednesdays between 10.00am and 12 noon.  Your first session is free and we offer toys and activities for all pre-school children, coffee and chat for parents and carers.  The group meets at Long Bredy Village Hall on the first, third and fifth Wednesdays of the month.  On the second Wednesday we meet in Littlebredy Hall and on the fourth Wednesday we meet in either Littlebredy or Puncknowle.  For further details contact:  Bridget (Burton Bradstock) 898600 or Jo (Litton Cheney) ... or Julie (Puncknowle) 897178 or Rachel (Kingston Russell and Long Bredy) 482246

The Eastern End Bride Valley Children's Christmas Party

All children aged 0 -12 years from the Eastern End of the Bride Valley and those who attend Thorner's School come along on Saturday 13^th December at 3 o'clock till 5.30 pm to Thorner's School, Litton Cheney. There will be a tea party, disco, colouring competition and a visit from a special person at the end.  All children under 5 years must be accompanied by an adult.

For further details contact Mandy Wakely (01308 482272)

Litton Cheney Youth Club meet on Tuesday evenings for those between 8 and 17 years in Litton Cheney and the surrounding villages.  For further details of the sessions read the Litton notes or contact Paul Kingston 482384.

Ladybirds will meet for an American Supper on the Wednesday 10^th December.

Royal British Legion - Women's Section

Sincere thanks to all those who helped at their Poppy Appeal coffee morning on 6^th November.  Thanks also to those who gave items for the various stalls, and to those who supported this worthwhile event.  Subject to any late donations, the amount raised was £340, a first class effort. 

Greta Heal

Barnardo's Mince Pie and Coffee Morning

This event will be held on Saturday 6th December from 10:00 am till 12:00 in the Town Hall, Bridport. There will be live music from the West Dorset Music Centre, also cakes, a raffle and Christmas cards for sale.

BRIDE VALLEY GARDENING CLUB

Future Dates:-

8th December     Chris Yeats    Roses   - Old and New  Followed  by our Cheese and Wine Party

12th January       Chris  Hunter  -  Growing fruit

9th  February      David Hitchcock         -  Songbird Aquilegias

8th March          Val Hurlston-Gardiner - Painswick Rococo Gardens

We had a lively, very informative but entertaining evening with Katherine Crouch previous BBC Gardener of the Year in November. This year she did a trouble shooting evening.

And after addressing issues of structure and planning for the garden she looked at some of the members' gardens, ( from photos ) and suggested ways of changing, and improving them.

On December 8^th we have a talk by Chris Yates from The Scented Garden, Littlebredy on  Roses - old and new - followed by our Christmas Party. The Club supplies the wine etc. but a plate of food would be appreciated.

Do come along and join us at Thorner's School Litton Cheney at 7.30pm. on that evening.

Norma Millard - Club Secretary - 01308 897774

BURTON BRADSTOCK                                           

Village Correspondent  Mr Basil Dent

2, Norburton, Burton Bradstock. Tel:- (01308) 897125

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Mid Week Worship -                                                                    

Holy Communion                  Wednesdays at 10.00 a.m.

Choir Practices                       Fridays at 6.00 p.m.

Bell Ringing Practices           Thursdays at 7.00pm

Gift Sunday                            21^st December          Hope Africa

The next Healing Service at St Mary's will be held on Monday 15th December at 7.30pm. Please note change of date.

The next Tiny Tots / Pram Service will be held on Friday 5^th December at 11.00am

From the Registers

Holy Matrimony

18^th October 2003                   Kirsty Bennett and Tristan Myles

No rain from the skies, just tears in the eyes, of this lovely couple. 

John and Pam's Retirement

Although tinged with sadness, a very special and enjoyable last service in St Mary's followed by an equally special and enjoyable farewell lunch in the W.I. Hall, was held on Sunday 28^th September, where we said our goodbyes to John and Pam as a Church Family. 

Once again the generosity of parishioners shone through; consequent upon the amount donated at the lunch together with a very generous cheque from a member of our Church congregation to make up the difference, the cost was met in full without the need to draw on church finances.  We are indeed very grateful for this, especially to the individual concerned. 

Basil Dent & Howard Bongers (Churchwardens)

An Autumn Clean for St Mary's

In anticipation of the arrival of a new incumbent, it would be an appropriate time to give our beloved St Mary's a thorough clean.  We are looking for two teams of volunteers, one for the church interior and one for the churchyard.  All those who feel they would like to help, please give your names to either of the churchwardens.  Remember - many hands make light work!        

Basil Dent & Howard Bongers (Churchwardens)

Carol Singing around the village

For those interested in singing carols around the village, please meet outside St Mary's Church on the evening of Wednesday 17^th December at 6.30pm.  Wrap up warm and bring a torch so that you can read the words of the carols. 

Burton Bradstock Homewatch

Once again it is necessary to remind all residents that we are now in the period of the year when our homes are at most risk from intruders seeking to find means of breaking into our houses.  When thieves cannot get into your homes they turn their attention to garages, sheds and cars - always ensure these are locked.  One instance recently, a handbag was stolen from the rear seat of a car which had been left unlocked over night. 

Our Home Watch scheme continues to be a success in deterring the potential thief - only you, our readers - can keep it so.  We should always seek ways and means of making our homes secure.  In this respect, the services of our Police in Bridport (tel 01308-422266) are available to advise on the subject.  Lists showing the name of your immediate co-ordinator are displayed on the notice boards outside the Library and in the Post Office. 

Freddy Tame (897957)

Burton Bradstock Village Society

Because she could never get her Dad to talk about the Second World War, Sheila Meaney decided to carry out her own research into the part played by her dad, Terry.  The results of her investigations were revealed to the Village Society on 16^th October in her talk entitled 'Exercise Yukon'.  This turned out to be a personal and sometimes moving account of the local exercises of the Canadian Forces in West Dorset in preparation for the landings at Dieppe. 

In an early-recorded interview, her dad had confided that 'the exercises went quite well but when we got over the other side, it wasn't quite the same'.  The first exercise attempt turned out to be a disaster with people getting lost, landing in the wrong places, and bad intelligence.  The second attempt was much better - part of the exercise was to clean out Burton Bradstock!  80 vessels landed 1000 troops - some were given cups of tea 'en route' by locals! 

Sadly, the real raid on Dieppe was a disaster.  It was said that the troops were not ready and the training too casual.  Altogether a very interesting evening which brought back all sorts of memories to many people present. 

The next meeting of the Society will be on 12^th December.

Peter Dutton

Police Community Support Unit

In future the above unit will visit the village on the second Tuesday of each month ( 9^th December ) from 10.00 - 11.30 am.

Burton Bradstock Players

Pantomime

Pantomime, "Snow White," will take place from Monday 9th February - Saturday 14th February 2004 inclusive, with a Saturday matinee, at the W.I. Hall, Burton Bradstock.

The Box Office will open on Tuesday, 6th January 2004 at Burton Bradstock Post Office.

Burton Bradstock W.I

 The Institute has had two very interesting but different speakers recently.  In October Inspector John Pollock gave a very informative talk, illustrated with slides, on the work of the R.S.P.C.A. and in November Mrs. Anne Southgate gave a demonstration and enabled members to have a "hands on" experience of making gelatin flowers.

The Christmas lunch takes place at Highlands End on Thursday 11th December 12 noon for 12.30pm and members have been invited by Bridport W.I to join them at their Carol Service in the United Church Bridport on 16th December at 7pm.

Members would like to thank everyone who supported the Christmas coffee morning of the 29th November.

The next meeting will be on December 9th at 2.15pm when the speaker will be Bob Fox whose subject is "A funny way to earn a living" Great Comedians and Artistes.

The Bridge group continues to meet on Tuesday afternoons at 2.00pm. We will be pleased to welcome new members.  Dates for December - 2nd and 16.^th

Agnes Barham

Thanks

Special thanks to our family, friends and neighbours for their cards, prayers and good wishes during John's recent stay in hospital.  We are so fortunate to live in such a caring community. 

John and Veda Bull

		WE WOULD LIKE TO WISH OUR FRIENDS & NEIGHBOURS A VERY HAPPY CHRISTMAS & SEND OUR BEST WISHES FOR 2004 FROM:
		Mary Bailey
		Howard & Linda Bongers
		Kate & Bernard Chennells
		Celia Cummins
		Lesley, Steve, Gemma & Jake Dove
		Daphne & Trevor Ekins
		Rob & June Fox
		Jim & Margaret Harding
		John & Barbara Ivall
		Patricia Lepine
		Dorothy Lewis
		Tim & Sue Linford
		Dennis & Carol Lumley
		Peter & Margaret Oldridge
		Deryn & John Pakenham-Walsh
		Derek & Val Parsons
		Susan Paul
		Sheila & Ken Pett
		Mike & Ann Read
		Terry Rendell
		Gill & Charles Robertson
		Mike & Anne Southgate
		Betty Starkey
		Peggy & Norman Thompson
		Karen, David, Paul & Rebecca Venn
		Clare Viney
		Andrea & Chris Wilkinson
	In support of St. Mary's Church, Burton Bradstock

SHIPTON GORGE

Village Correspondent: Mrs. Joy White

Eastcote,  3 Gullivers Orchard,  Shipton Gorge

Tel: ( 01308 )897974

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Grand Christmas Bazaar - Saturday , December 6th, 10.30 -12.30.

Please come along to the Village Hall and support this event, held in aid of St. Martin's Church, details of which are in the November issue.

Gillian Maxfield and Janet Lane.

St Martin's Carol Service , Tuesday December 16th at 6.30 pm. Please note the earlier time of this service which will be led this year by our Team Vicar, the Rev'd. Anthony Ashwell. Seasonal refreshments will be served in the village hall afterwards.                 The Churchwardens.

New Village Notice Boards

Sadly the notice board outside of the Village Hall, given by E. Larkworthy Esq. in 1985 has fallen into disrepair and has had to be replaced.

There are now three new notice boards in the Village and our thanks go to those who have given freely of their time and effort to see these boards fabricated and erected. We are also grateful to Skidmarx Ltd of Weymouth who donated the acrylic sheeting for the doors on the Village Hall board 
 The Village Society

A reminder to the 'readers' of Shipton Gorge

The Library van comes to Quarry Close every other Friday at 3.10p.m. First December visit is 5th Dec. 2003

The van is well stocked and the librarian/driver is knowledgeable, helpful and friendly. Please note that IF WE DON'T USE IT WE LOSE IT.                                                                    Doreen Rogers

Shipton Gorge Village Hall

The annual Christmas Bingo night will be held on Wednesday 10th December; eyes down at 7.30pm. There will be many great prizes on offer, together with a raffle and refreshments. Please join us at this very popular event.

Christmas Cards.

There may be a few villagers who would like to give cards to friends in the village but have difficulty in actually delivering them. I have a couple of young volunteers who are happy to do the delivering.

Cards should be delivered to CAIRNHILL by 17th December (or call 898203 if you would like them collected). All cards will be delivered by 21st December. Only cards for delivery within the village can be accepted.

No charge will be made, but a donation would be appreciated. This will be split between the deliverers and the Village Society.

Bob White, Cairnhill.

Playing Field Burglary

I regret to have to inform the village that it was discovered on Monday 27th October that the shed in our Playing Field was broken into the previous night and that the Parish Council's mower had been stolen. The police were called to the scene but think it unlikely that the mower will be recovered. The shed door was damaged and a temporary repair has been made but new doors will be fitted latest when the insurance claim is finalised. A replacement mower will not be obtained until next year when further security for the shed will be added. If anybody has any information that they think may be helpful to the police enquiry could they please contact the Clerk to the Council, Jeff Fisher, on 08707-583-272.

Mary Boughton, Chairman PC Playing Field Committee

Thank you to all my friends and neighbours who sponsored my granddaughter Karen to run the New York Marathon on Sunday 2nd November 2003. She completed the course in exactly 4 hours.

I will let you know the total she made for the Anthony Nolan Trust when all her sponsorship money has been received.

Ivy Platt  5, Rockway.

 Congratulations to Colin Chambers, who on 2^nd November, despite the worst weather anyone could remember, completed the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run in just under 6 1/2 hours on his 1904 Humber Olympia Tandem. This was a remarkable achievement since the car had not been run for 35 years, and as recently as four weeks ago was still in pieces, after having been completely stripped down and restored by his cousin, David, who was co-participant with him on the Run. They deserved their medal for finishing well within the allotted time, but will be hoping for better weather in 2004.

Shipton Gorge Village Hall 100 Club

Winners for the November Draw

CHILCOMBE                                                                      

The Christmas Carol Service takes place on Saturday 20^th December at 6.30pm.

Fund raising events for the Air Ambulance to be held at Bull Inn, Swyre

6^th December - This will take your breath away quite literally it's the Great Bull Pickled Onion Competition. Pickle your Onions, present them at The Bull before the event and then sample the entries. Judge the Rest to find the Best. With prizes for the best you can take part in the best Pickled Onion feast in town.

13^th December - Test your powers of observation with The Bull Video Quiz, watch the screen, listen to the music and let us take you back over memorable events of the 20^th Century, with a range of questions; it will be fun for everyone from 8 to 80.

20th December - Finishing off this impressive list will be the Family Christmas Fun Day with Fun and Games for all the Family. Come and join in the Festive Spirit.

For further details please ring Chris or Sue at the Bull on 897250.

Puncknowle and Swyre Parish Council 2^nd December 2003

The Parish Council will meet at 7.30 on the 2^nd December at Puncknowle Church Hall.

There will not be a meeting in January 2004.

December shopping trip

The next shopping trip has been arranged - and will be to Poole in December:-

 Monday 8th December 2003 to Poole

Pick up at    Puncknowle Village Hall    9.30am

Pick up at    Swyre Church                               9.40am

Pick up at    West Bexington Manor Hotel        9.45am

Cost is £6 per person   for the journey there and back - payable when getting on the bus.

Pick up for the return journey will be 2.00pm at the same place as drop off

(The Dolphin Centre which is under cover so it doesn't matter if it rains!)

(If you miss the return pick up you will have to make your own arrangements to get home)

Please phone 01308 897684 (new number) and leave your name and the number of seats required (suggest you book early as the last trip to Poole was booked very quickly) If for any reason you are unable to travel please let us know on 01308 897684 in case others wish to take your place.

The above is an initiative organised by your local Parish Council so please offer your support otherwise it will be a case if it doesn't get used it won't happen again.

Puncknowle Swyre and West Bexington Homewatch

Unfortunately crime came to our area last month with burglaries at our local pub. It is a reminder that we must all be on our guard especially with the Christmas festivities coming.

In view of this just remember some of these points.

• Lock all doors & windows when you go out of the house.
• Secure presents & valuables in the boot of your car before parking.
• Watch your purse/wallet when shopping in busy stores.
• Make sure presents left under the tree are kept out of view.

DON'T LET THIEVES SPOIL YOUR CHRISTMAS

SAFEGUARD YOUR PROPERTY

As a footnote from the Vital Villages Survey a majority of residents felt safe in our community. Let's keep it that way.

 I would like to wish everyone in our Homewatch area a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and a big thank you to all the Homewatch representatives for your support in 2003.

 Andy Marshall 01308 897732

Puncknowle Church Hall

The results of the Vital Villages Questionnaire regarding the wishes of villagers as to the future management of the Church Hall showed that 123 households wanted the Hall managed by a users group of villagers. Puncknowle Parochial Church Council, who at present are the leaseholders, and manage the Hall, agreed to look favourably at the idea of transferring the management to such a Group.

On the 21^st October an open meeting was held in the Hall to explain progress, and to give the opportunity to any villager who wanted to join the group the chance to do so. Only eight persons came to the meeting, where were you all? If the Steering Group are to succeed they need your support. Please contact the Steering Group Chairman, David Buckland, on 898492 or the Secretary Liz Slater on 897751. You do not need to join the Steering Group, but they need to know that they have your support.

SWYRE                                                                         

Village Correspondent: Sid Marshall

3 Green Barton, Swyre Tel: 897318

s.marshall@which.net

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From the Registers

Holy Baptism

26^th October 2003                   Abbie Louise Bird

Abbie, the second of two beautiful little baby girls baptised on this day (for the first see under Long Bredy).  The church was full to welcome Abbie. 

Christmas Services

Our Carol Service, united with Puncknowle, and at Puncknowle is Sunday 14^th December at 6.00pm and will take its customary format. 

Our main Christmas Service will be the 'early Midnight Communion Service' beginning at 9.30pm on Christmas Eve.  Last year it was very popular with over 50 attending, do come along if you can. 

Anthony Ashwell

PUNCKNOWLE & WEST BEXINGTON              

Village Correspondent:  Elizabeth Slater

1, Lytton Close, Puncknowle, Dorchester DT2 9BH

Carol Service by Candlelight

This will be on 14^th December at 6.00pm and will follow our usual format of the telling of the Christmas Story from Holy Scriptures, the assembly of the Crib and the singing of Carols. Mulled wine and mince pies will be available afterwards, and of course, everybody is welcome. 

Christmas Day Service

Our Christmas Day Service will be at 9.30am by which time those with young families should have been up for a few hours! 

Anthony Ashwell

Bride Valley Fledglings Playgroup.

Thanks to everyone who bought our Summer Quiz sheet - also to the Bull Inn, The Crown Inn and Burton Bradstock post office for selling them. In October we welcomed Reuben Kingston to Playgroup and hope he will be happy with us. We have a new committee of parents who run the Playgroup - new chairperson is Sally Jevons, assisted by Jayne Fournier, Secretary is Caroline Cox (again!) - thanks to you all for taking it on. The next committee meeting will be to finalise arrangements for our fund-raising.

Please feel free to ring me for any information about Fledglings Playgroup.

Carol Bennett (Playleader)     01308 897771

Social Evening Thursday 4 December 7.30 pm in the Church Hall

Ian Cross Countryside Ranger will be talking and showing slides on South East Asia, its culture and nature.  This should be an interesting evening.  There will be coffee and biscuits and a collection taken to cover expenses.

Thursday 15 January 2004 the speaker will be Sir Bernard Knight, who will tell us about the work of the Dorset Air Ambulance.

Ann Roberts

Carol Singing Round the Village Monday 22 December.

Meet in the Church Hall 6 pm with a torch and to have a glass of mulled wine before we start.  Come and help us raise a record sum for the Dorset Air Ambulance.

Ann Roberts

Congratulations to Mary Hardy of Miramar, West Bexington, on her 90th Birthday on December 9th.  We wish her every happiness.

Found in St Mary's Church Puncknowle a small mother of pearl and silver crucifix.  Contact Ann Roberts 01308 897716

Puncknowle Art Group

We are most grateful to Ann Gray for giving us a very interesting talk on 'prefect proportions' - the Golden Mean, the Fibonacci Spiral, Euclid, the Greeks and the Egyptians. There is just one date for Dec - the 12^th-  Christmas lunch.

Christine Molony

LITTON CHENEY                                                          

Village Correspondent:

Mrs. Elizabeth Kingston, 5 Manor Farm Close

news4litton@bridevalley.net

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Christmas Services

These come close together, and everybody really is so welcome to run up the steps to join us. 

Sunday 21^st December at 5.00pm - Carol Service followed by mulled wine and mince pies. 

Christmas Eve at 4.00pm - Crib Service, especially for children to hear the real Christmas Story. 

Midnight Holy Communion, beginning at 11.30pm on Christmas Eve. 

New Year's Eve Service

Before the Old Year is rung out there will be a short 'watch-night' Service beginning at 11.15pm. 

Litton Cheney Relief in Need Trust

As in previous years the trustees of this Charity invite applications from residents of Litton Cheney who in the main have to rely on State pensions or benefits. 

It is realised that such recipients may also be in receipt of additional income from other sources, which may obviate the necessity for them to seek a grant from this Charity.  The Trustees hope residents in the latter category would feel they should not apply. 

If you feel, however, that you do qualify or know of someone that could qualify please apply in confidence to Brian Prentice at 'Steddings', Chalk Pit Lane, or one of the other Trustees on or before 7^th December 2003. 

Those residents who at present benefit from a grant need not re-apply. 

The Trust may also give grants to year-2003 school-leavers who intend to or have started full-time employment, or who have begun a higher education course.  Please apply in writing, giving brief details of why the grant is needed, to Brian Prentice, as above. 

Anthony Ashwell

Have your say!

With the Bride Valley News all the households of Litton Cheney should have received a flyer about Vital Villages.  If you have not received this flyer please collect a copy from The White Horse Inn or e mail news4litton@bridevalley.net  We need to know everyone's opinion and if there are volunteers to form a steering group to help in anyway to compile a questionnaire for everyone who lives in the parish.  We need as many volunteers as possible to present as broad a picture of  the community as possible, so don't worry if you are under 20 or over 80, you don't drive a car, you have only lived in the village for a few weeks, you work or don't work or you live in an isolated homestead you can volunteer if you wish to help.  The flyer needs to be returned by Friday 5^th December to Cllr Sally Dyke, Watercombe, Main Street or Elizabeth Kingston, 5 Manor Farm Close.

Parish Clerk

After 4 ½ years sterling service as our Parish Clerk John Rowlands will be stepping down in January and a successor is urgently sought.  Would you like to become more involved in the village?  Would you be able to prepare Agendas and Minutes for the five Parish Council meetings held each year and deal with routine correspondence?  Lack of experience of local government procedures should in no way deter you as guidance where necessary is always available from the Dorset Association of Parish and Town Councils.  John has very generously given his time, averaging for the essential work around 8 hours per month, free to the Parish - again please do not be put off if you are unable to be so benevolent as an honorarium would be available if needed.  Please think very seriously if you can, or you know someone you think may, take on this vital village job.  If you are interested or require more details contact either John Rowlands 482409 or Chairman Freddie Spicer 482617.

The Parish Council will be meeting in the Church Hall on Tuesday 9^th December at 7.30 pm.  Everyone is welcome to attend.

The Police Community Support Unit will be at the Bus Shelter between 2 o'clock and 3 o'clock on Tuesday 9^th December.

The Eastern End Bride Valley Children's Christmas Party will be held on Saturday 13^th December 2003.  Children aged 0 -12 years are welcome to attend, children under 5 years must be accompanied by an adult.  The party is at Thorner's School from 3 pm to 5.30 pm - Tea Party, Disco, Colouring Competition and a visit from a special person at the end.  For further details contact Mandy Wakely 482272

Litton Cheney Social Committee

Join us for Carol singing around the village - proceeds to Naomi House Children's Hospice.  Carol sheets provided.

18^th December - meet at 6.30 pm at the bus shelter and walk around most of the village.

19^th December - meet at 7.00 pm at the bus shelter and stroll down to the White Horse.

We would like to thank you all for your support this year and wish you a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.                                                                                                      Kathy Kourik Secretary 482552

Litton Cheney Youth Club

The dates for December have yet to be confirmed.  The junior session for those 8-12 years is from 6.30pm to 8.00pm and for those 13-17 years is from 8.00pm to 9.30pm.                                          Paul Kingston 482384

Left at the Playing Field after the Fun Day in September a green collapsible chair.  Phone 482384

The Web Group will be having a Christmas Dinner in December so will not be meeting on the first Monday of the month.

A reminder that items for January's BVN for inclusion by the correspondent need to be received by Friday 5^th December.  With Best Wishes for Christmas and the New Year.   EK

LONG BREDY                                                         

Village Correspondent:

Mrs. Elinor Frost, Bridelands ( 482269 )

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From the Registers

Holy Baptism

26^th October 2003                   May Eloise Smith

May Eloise, the first of two beautiful little baby girls baptised on this day (for the second see under Swyre).  May was serene in the presence of her family and friends, and half a dozen other babies! 

Christingle Service and Carol Service

It is Littlebredy's turn to host both these Services this year, but Long Bredy folk especially are most welcome to Littlebredy Church which is (normally) much better heated than our own!  Outline details:

Sunday 14^th December - 11.00am - Christingle Service

Monday 22^nd December - 6.30pm - Carol Service

(both at Littlebredy)

Crib Service

Instead of our 3^rd Sunday Family Service at 9.30am we shall be having a Crib Service - 21^st December (9.30am).  We haven't had such a Service in Long Bredy for many years, and the Vicar is really looking forward to telling our little ones the Christmas Story. 

Christmas Day Service

We shall be having our usual 11o'clock Christmas Family Service, leading straight into a shortened Christmas Holy Communion.  There is a gap of a few minutes however before the Communion starts, should anybody feel they cannot stay. 

Anthony Ashwell

Baptism

It was a lovely sunny Sunday morning for the christening of May Eloise Smith, daughter of Kate and Dan Smith of 2 Lower Kingston Russell Cottages.

Jack Bailey and Joan Sheldrick are both out of hospital and we hope they will continue to make a good recovery. We send best wishes to them both.

Refuse collection arrangements for Christmas and New Year 2003-4

Normal Day                            Rearranged Day

Thursday 25 December            Saturday 27 December

Friday 26 December                 Monday 29 December       

Monday 29 December              Tuesday 30 December

Tuesday 30 December              Wednesday 31 December

Wednesday 31 December        Friday 2 January

Thursday 1 January                   Saturday 3 January

Friday 2 January                       Monday 5 January

Monday 5 January                    Tuesday 6 January

Tuesday 6 January                    Wednesday 7 January

Wednesday 7 January               Thursday 8 January

Thursday 8 January                   Friday 9 January

Friday 9 January                       Saturday 10 January

LITTLEBREDY                                                            

Both our main December Services are of a most special nature.  On 14^th December we have a Christingle Service, united with Long Bredy, in aid of the work of the Children's Society (see separate advert).  On Christmas Day we have our usual 11.00am Holy Communion Service with Carols.  We are hoping that the church by this time will have its renovated windows in place. 

Carol Service

It is also Littlebredy's turn to host this United Service with Long Bredy.  See you at 6.30pm on Monday 22^nd December in church, and afterwards for 'mince and mull'.                                                          Anthony Ashwell

LITTLEBREDY NOTES.

Last month's copy left en route for the Editor only a day or two before the news broke of the terrible car accident involving Pat Cooper and two of her grandchildren.  In the intervening month, hope and expectation have turned to relief and joy as Pat and Emma have moved out of danger in Dorchester and Southampton Hospital respectively, and are now both convalescing back at home.  The love and prayers of their neighbours continue to surround them, Mike, and the rest of their family, as they recover from a fearful ordeal.

The bonfire and fireworks evening on the Village Green was a fantastic success - except for animals terrified of the noise! - with an enormous bonfire and  prolonged and spectacular fireworks display followed by a great crush eating, drinking, and enjoying one another's company in the Village Hall.  Thanks and congratulations to all who contributed to any part of the occasion.

We "go to press" this month a few days before the Village Meeting on the 13th November, but a review of the main decisions reached will appear next time.

The next All-Age Worship (Family Service) in Church at 11.00 a.m. on Sunday 14th December will take the form of a Christingle Service, with the distribution of decorated oranges and candles, symbolic of many aspects of Christ's life and ministry.  It should be an exceptional occasion for all who are able to be there.

Later in the month, it is Littlebredy Church's turn to host the joint (with Long Bredy) Carol Service, at 6.00 p.m. on Monday 22nd December, followed by festive hospitality in the Village Hall.  This is another occasion where as big a congregation as possible will be more than welcome.

The Christmas Day service in Church itself will be a Family Communion at 11.00 a.m., led, as for many years past now, by Canon Pouncey, to whom thanks are due in advance.

There will also be a carol singing party round the village in the lead-up to Christmas, and details of this will be circulated separately later.  It remains only for your correspondent to wish all households in Littlebredy a joyous and peaceful Advent and Christmas season.

¯¯¯¯¯

Alligton Strings * Bridport Youth Choir *Woodroffe Early Music Group

CHRISTMAS CONCERT

St. Mary's Church, Bridport     Sat 6 December 7.30pm

Admission by programme £4 ( Child/ Student £2.50 )

Available from The Book Shop, South St. or at the door

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The Briantspuddle Singers Christmas Concert

To include Fantasia on Christmas Carols- R..Vaughan Williams

St. Mary's Church, Frampton       Sat 6 December  7.00pm

Tickets £7 ( children £2 ) available from 01929 555366 or 01300 320730

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The Dorchester Choral Society

MESSIAH By G.F.Handel

St. Mary's Church, Edward Rd., Dorchester   Sat 13 December 7.30pm

Tickets: £10, £8 (Senior Citizens) £5 (Students) obtainable from Harmony Music

For further details ring 01305 832069

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Doves  -Dorchester Voices

War Requiem    Benjamin Britten

The Lighthouse, Poole 29^th February 2004 7.30pm

Credit Card Bookings 01305 259154    £10, £8 (Senior Citizens) £5 (Students)

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We are most grateful to the writer, a Bride Valley Resident who wishes to remain anonymous, for submitting the following poem for publication.

Babe of Light

A Poem for Christmas

Babe of Light, come fill my heart with joy

Thou knowest 'tis thine own

Though of poor alloy.

***

Babe of Light, come fill my narrow mind

Though I am mean and staid

And spiritually blind.

***

Babe of Light, sweet Child of sweetest Maid,

Was 'ere so tender load

In a manger laid?

***

Babe of Light, Thou wast to shepherds shown,

Receive my puny soul

And claim it for Thine own.

***

Babe of Light, adored by Sages Three,

My fealty I give

To none other King but Thee.

***

Babe of Light, upon my heart's cold straw

Wilt Thou but deign to rest

And leave me nevermore?

***

1.      From dark 'til dawn, soundless and sanctimonious.

2.      Celestial messengers from splendid empires.

3.      In a distant bovine diner.

4.      Universal elation.

5. Ornament the enclosure with large sprigs of berry-bearing  evergreen.

6.      Miniature Nazarene village

7.      May Jehovah grant unto you hilarious males retirement.

8.      Those of you who are true, come here!

9.      Are you detecting the same aural sensations as I am?

10. The diminutive male of less than adult age who plays a percussion instrument
11. Primary Yuletide
12. Heavenly cherubs announcing in song - listen!

The Editor would like to wish all readers, correspondents, distributors, proof readers, advertisers, Creeds and all those who help in the production of the B.V.N. a very

Happy Christmas

&

thank them all for their help during 2003

BURTON BRADSTOCK LIBRARY

The Library will be closed for Christmas

On

Thursday 25^th December

Friday 26^th December

The Library will be closed for The New Year

On

Thursday 1^st January