FROM THE CLERGY

If you were granted one wish, just one wish, and were given time to think about it, what would it be?  So, think about it for a few moments, and try and forget that it is the Vicar asking the question.  He'll never know your answer anyway! 

So what would you wish?  Long life and happiness, freedom from illness and pain, peace in the world, a jackpot win on the Lottery, the Kingdom of Heaven?  The chances are that your wish would have been similar to one of these, with in the very back of your mind where you hardly dare even to think about it, the ultimate wish of all wishes, happiness and peace in a life without end, for ever and ever, Amen.  I've put 'Amen' because a wish can be a prayer, and God answers prayers. 

I'm glancing through one of my wife's 'girlie' magazines, actually it's one of those 'women's interest' mags.  What's in it?  Here's a selection of articles: cancer avoidance, Atkins diet, easier life, cellulite treatment.  And some adverts: fresh new skin, revitalised teeth, night renewal cream, reduced cholesterol.  You may be starting to get my drift.  The magazine gives emphasis to the avoidance of ageing and illness, to renewal, even perfection.  Those magazines that focus more on fashion and make-up are even more biased.  The models are nearly always youthful and I have to write the word (wrinkle) in brackets. 

These magazines and the male equivalents have an enormous circulation and their editors will argue, no doubt accurately, that their emphasis merely reflect the interests of their readers.  I suspect that is only a tiny minority of us who do not want to stay young, and stay young, and stay young forever.  The majority wants to avoid getting older, because that means closer to death and that must be avoided at all costs.  So there is the basis of our wish, acknowledged or latent, that we might live forever. 

God may listen to wishes, but he does answer prayers.  Our prayer is answered on Easter Day when we celebrate Jesus Christ's victory over death, and the beginning of life without end in Heaven.  Jesus was fully human, like you and I, and rose from the dead.  Jesus was fully divine, the Son of God.  He both promises and enables everlasting life to all believers.  Alleluia. 

Anthony Ashwell

A message from The Archbishop of Canterbury:

Christian Aid Week,  9-15 May 2004

Dear friends

When Jesus says that he has come so that human beings may have life in all its fullness, he challenges us to identify just where such fullness is under attack, diminished or ignored in any way. Christian Aid has again and again returned to this theme. Poverty, the experience of being forgotten or oppressed, hunger or homelessness are all conditions in which the fullness of life is denied. More than that, if we stand by and let it be denied, it is our own fullness of life that we refuse. As the American writer Flannery O'Connor said: "The life you save may be your own" if you are prepared to risk getting involved to defend another's freedom and dignity.

The needs do not grow any less as the years go by. A fifth of the world's population still struggles to manage at less than the equivalent of 60p per day. As our own comforts in the prosperous or 'developed' world become more deeply entrenched, there is little or no real movement elsewhere towards a situation where people can take control over some conditions of their own and their children's lives.

Being involved in Christian Aid Week, through planning, giving, collecting and praying, is about resisting death: the death of isolation from each other as human beings, the death that comes when we lose our longing for fullness of life (for ourselves and for others). In the plain words of the Bible: "Choose life!"

From the Registers

Burton Bradstock - Funeral

Marjorie Thurgood, late of Hive Close, and with her husband Wally, a great supporter of the village, died at Broadwindsor House on 9^th February, and was cremated at Weymouth on 17^th February 2004. 

Litton Cheney - Memorial Service

Edward Golding was a remarkable man, loving, resolute, extremely intelligent, and possibly a little (but delightfully) eccentric.  The Thanksgiving Service on 27^th February 2004 for his long life was well attended and full of wonderful memories.  An appreciation appears elsewhere. 

Puncknowle - Funeral and Burial

The funeral of Andrew Long took place in church on 10^th March 2004, and his mortal remains were laid to rest in the cemetery.  Our 'old' vicar, Andrew Salmon, took the Service of this great character and loving family man. 

To the family and friends of Marjorie, Edward and Andrew we extend our deepest sympathy. 

Our New Team Rector - latest news

I had hoped to announce the date of the Rev'd Bob Thorn's Institution as Rector of the Bride Valley Team Ministry, but it seems that this arrangement cannot be made until the Bishop of Salisbury returns from his sabbatical ..... at Easter.  It is possible therefore that the date of Bob's Institution, which really should be in May, may not be available even before May's BVN goes to press!  * (SEE STOP PRESS page 1)*

Bob will begin his move to Burton Bradstock towards the end of April, and he and Jean should be 'ready for action' by the middle of May.  Bob and I have agreed that the first Sunday on which he will take Services locally will be 16^th May, whether or not he has been instituted.  If it is the latter, he can either be given a temporary 'permission-to-officiate' or be invited to lead Services by the local Rural Dean, and guess who he is? 

Visit of the Bishop of Sherborne - April 25^th

Bishop Tim will preach for Evensong at Burton Bradstock at 6.30pm on Sunday 25^th April.  At the end of the Service he will license the Team Vicar and 'acting' Rural Dean formally as Rural Dean of the Lyme Bay Deanery. 

The Evensong will thus become a United Valley Service and the other Services on 25^th April will be said Holy Communion at Shipton Gorge (9.30am) and Littlebredy (11.00am).  Please do your best to welcome Bishop Tim to the Bride Valley, listen earnestly to his sermon for he is interesting, stimulating and challenging, and support the new Rural Dean. 

Our sincerest thanks to Anthony for all his willing, cheerful hard work on our behalf, with Mike's support, during the interregnum. He carries our prayerful support as he (officially) takes on the added responsibility of Rural Dean.                                                                                            Ed.

Holy Week Services

These are included under the separate village sections, but here they are in outline:

4^th April  Palm Sunday  Services at the usual times

5^th April  Monday                     7.00pm  Compline at Long Bredy

6^th April  Tuesday                     7.00pm  Compline at Shipton Gorge

7^th April  Wednesday                7.00pm  Compline at Litton Cheney

8^th April  Maundy Thursday   7.00pm  Eucharist at Burton                                                                                                          Bradstock

9^th April  Good Friday            10.00am  The Litany at Littlebredy

                                              12 noon   The Litany at Shipton Gorge

                                              12 noon Good Friday Service at Swyre

                                              1.45pm  Good Friday Service at Burton

10^th April  Easter Eve            No Service in any of the Bride Valley

Anthony Ashwell

Tiny Tots / Pram Service 

The next service will be at 11.00am on Friday 2^nd April at St. Mary's Church, Burton Bradstock.                                        Yvette Smith ( 898219 )

Mothers' Union       Thursday 22^nd April at 2.30pm

To be held at 'Rosevine,' Swyre Road, Puncknowle

Mr. Hugh Morley will speak on Yugoslavia

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 8pm aiming to finish by about 9.30pm.  All are most welcome. For further details contact Paul ..., Tel ...

April 1            No Meeting

April 8              No Meeting

April 15          No Meeting

April 22            Bible Study       Matthew 6.19-24       

         (How to handle money)                           6 Baglake, Litton Cheney

April 29            Prayer                                    2 Myrtle Close, Puncknowle

Small Groups for Bible Study? ........Not Me!

In February Ann and I were privileged to join with a group of young families from the Bride Valley for a weekend at Lee Abbey. The subject for discussionwas 'Small Groups'.

Jesus said that when two or three people meet together he is there with them. God has a purpose for each one of us - to become more like Jesus. When small groups meet our goal is to encounter Jesus, and in that, to experience his life-changing power. We do that as we pray, worship, learn from the bible and share honestly together. It is difficult to do that on our own, and during one hour together on a Sunday morning!

We have at present in the valley three 'small groups' that meet on a regular basis for bible study and prayer, to which all are welcome. The thought occurs that they may not be for you! Why?

When I first attended a small group I was absolutely terrified! I can recall sitting in a corner of the room hoping that I would not be noticed. I dreaded the possibility that I might be asked to read from the bible, pray, or answer some deep theological question that would demonstrate my ignorance of God's word! It took many meetings before I was able to overcome my fears

If there are those who feel as I did, it may be helpful to join a group that has no set agenda, where those who wish to seek without commitment in a relaxed atmosphere in which to ask questions. If the idea appeals, take the risk and give me a ring on 897445.                                                                                                                                              Mike Read

Gideons International

Gideons are Christian business and professional men who believe that the Bible is the inspired Word of God and that its message is timeless and relevant to the problems of pressures of life today. They are members of a local church and where possible work in partnership with their wives. They communicate their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ through personal testimony and by presenting or placing copies of God's Word.

If you would like to know more about this work and possibly join the local branch, please contact Geoff Gardner on 01308 421383.

Mike Read

Thorner's CE VA Primary School

Another term comes to a close, one which has been busy with both Netball and Handball tournaments and our Easter Concert where pupils who have been receiving tuition, through school or privately, in a variety of instruments, are given the opportunity to play in front of an audience and share their success. At the time of writing none of these events have taken place so don't forget to read future instalments!  Recently we have been hearing on the news that the government want to offer every child the opportunity to learn how to play a musical instrument, we already do!  There is also the expectation that pupils will have games / PE / playtimes where they are able to run around .. we have three play areas suitable for the winter and a field during those drier months of the year where you will see and definitely hear children running, shouting, playing football and generally enjoying themselves at various times of the day, including after school when volunteers run extra football sessions.  The government has an expectation that each child will leave Primary school being able to swim 25metres. what better way to learn than in our school pool, in a familiar environment with their friends and families . possible future national swimmers taking their first steps in our pool.  Reflecting on this makes me think how lucky we are here at Thorner's to have such extensive facilities and ask the question what is the government talking about?  Do they want more?  Then talking to former colleagues I remember the inner city school that had to be surrounded by a high wire fence, not only to keep some pupils in, but to keep unwanted visitors out, both during day and night and the preparation needed before the children could play games in the local park.  It is then that I realise how essential it is for each school to have good facilities to foster an interest for all areas of the curriculum and thank present and previous staff for all the hard work undertaken here in school.  I believe that we do provide our pupils with those wide experiences and hopefully the idea that school can be fun too.

On a more serious note, can you help us?  Recently it has become apparent that our pupil dictionaries are not man enough for the job! Now that must have caught your attention surely.  During teaching sessions, in particular, we are having to use very specific and technical vocabulary which does not always appear in child orientated dictionaries and we are wondering if any of the readers could donate surplus adult dictionaries for our oldest pupils, maybe no longer required or used, due to the increased and constant use of spellcheckers?  All contributions gratefully received.

Alison Johnstone

Headteacher

Bride Valley Fledglings Playgroup

 Our February 14th Photographer and Coffee Morning went well - the children painted pink and red hearts to decorate the Hall.  Our friendly photographer took some lovely family groups  of grown up sisters and their children, cousins, little brothers and sisters, one grandad also included as well as playgroup families. The cake and toy stalls did well - thanks to all who came along - we made about £70 on the morning.

Parents are now helping Sue and I on a rota basis again - they also provide our snacks - lots of fruit as well as biscuits and sometimes cake/s. Thank you to all who are able to help this way. On my special birthday on the 1st March - I was feted with singing, flowers, gift voucher and gorgeous chocolate cake - which I had to share!  It was such a lovely surprise - thanks folks.

We have had some Early Years visitors recently who work for Dorset County Council - they gave us support for our planning and activities, prior to our expected Ofsted inspections. It is nice to know we have backup!    

After the Easter holidays we will be having our   OPEN MORNING  on MAY 6th   so come along if you want to know more and see how Playgroup runs - most welcome.  In June we will be holding our annual sponsored TRIKE RIDE.  We also have some new notices up in all Bride Valley villages prepared by a dad - thanks Glenn.

 Carol Bennett  (Playleader)   01308  897771

Burton Bradstock CE VC School

After a successful Ofsted inspection we are set to enjoy the Easter break.  The report will officially be published any time now and once it arrives we have forty working days to draw up an action plan - never a dull moment!  Any issues arising are likely to have already been identified in our school improvement plan so we don't expect any surprises.  Our separate inspection for Collective Worship was also very positive and gives us encouragement to continue developing our provision in this area.

Last month was particularly busy with various sporting competitions.  We took part in the local area 6-a-side football and netball tournaments at St. Mary's, Bridport and Woodroffe schools respectively. In addition to this was the Pyramid Music Festival which again was a great success and the culmination of much hard work by a vast array of children and staff from all the local schools. 

Class 3 were visited by my parents and in-laws who shared some war time experiences they had as children during the war.  The children have been studying this era since January and took the opportunity to find out more from people who had first hand knowledge of life as a child at that time. The children listened attentively and asked some very mature questions which impressed the guests.  Needless to say, a good time was had by all.  The inspector remarked that, "The Headteacher uses his parents as artefacts."  I've never thought of them in that light before.

Class 3 also enjoyed another terrific visit to Leeson House.  They took part in a range of activities and had a wonderful time.

Our Easter service is Friday 2^nd April at 9.15 in the church.  Everyone is very welcome and we wish you all a good break over the holiday.

Mark Stratta.

100 Club

February winners were:

£20 - Mrs. Percy         £10 - Mrs. Barclay        £5 - Mrs. G. Heal

Bonus £10 Prizes went to: Mrs. Crabb, Mrs. Loudon, Mrs. Wyatt and Mrs. Farrow

We wish to thank villagers for their great support during the last year.  May we also take this opportunity to remind you that renewals are due if you have not already done so.

First Step Parent and Toddler Group

First Step Parent and Toddler Group meet on Wednesdays between 10.00am and 12 noon.  We enjoyed an Open Morning and celebration on 31^st March at Long Bredy Hall to show off and enjoy the new resources and toys that we have purchased.  We are particularly grateful to Dorset Community Action who gave us £450 and The Crown Puncknowle Fundraisers from whom we received £200.

Why not come along and see our new resources.  We welcome children from 0-4 years.  The first session is free and we will be meeting during the Easter Holidays.  We have 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 Little Bredy Hall and on the fourth Wednesday we meet in either Little Bredy 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

Litton Cheney Youth Club meets on Tuesday evenings, during term time, 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.

Bride Valley Gardening Club

Our winter season of lectures and slides is over and we are again looking forward to spring - which, with the cold spell, seems a long way off! The next important date for the diary is AGM which will be on April 26th at 7.30 in Thorner's School, Litton. This is a review of the year and the important task takes place of electing (or persuading) our members to take up positions on the Committee or generally being willing  to  lend  a  hand  in  some  way. This year our Chairwoman Dorothy Randell is seeking a Vice Chair, who would be prepared to take over in 12 months time.  We are also looking for a replacement for our Treasurer Brenda, and possibly other people to come forward to take a hand in the extra things we do such as the Plant Sale and the Mini Show. This year Penny does not want to be the co-ordinator for this - so please think about how you could become involved and help the club function. Everything is done with the help of a team - so you would not be alone!!

The AGM is followed by Wine and Cheese, with extra glasses for Volunteers. Please do come along and revitalise the Garden Club!

Date for Diary  -  Plant Sale      May 8th in the School as above.

Norma Millard     Club Secretary  897774.

Dates for your diary:-

The National Gardens Scheme - Gardens Open in the Bride Valley in 2004

Sunday 11^th April The Old Rectory, Litton Cheney 2.00 - 5.00 pm

Sunday 9^th May    The Old Rectory, Litton Cheney

Tuesday's during June and July The Scented Garden, Little Bredy 2.30 - 8.00 pm

Tuesday 15^th June The Old Rectory, Litton Cheney 2.00 - 6.00 pm

Sunday 20^th June   Tithe Barn House, Litton Cheney 2.00 - 6.00 pm

Langebride House, Long Bredy also opens for The National Gardens Scheme but for private visits by appointment.

Royal British Legion

This month's social evening will be held at the Three Horseshoes on Monday 26^th April at 7.00 for 7.30pm.

On Easter Monday ( 12^th April )at 2.30pm Women's Section will be holding their Sale in the W.I. Hall with all the usual stalls - Cakes, Bric-a-brac, Plants, Tombola, Books, Raffle etc. Any items for the stalls can be left at No. 25 Annings Lane or 9 Barr Lane, Burton Bradstock or on the day at the Hall after 1.00pm.                                                    

Greta Heal   Hon. Secretary

Burton Bradstock Players

Thank you all for supporting our pantomime and being such lovely audiences. We do hope you will also support our next production which will be 3 monologues from Alan Bennett's "Talking Heads", directed by Daphne Ekins. These will include "A Cream Cracker under the Settee," made famous by Thora Hird's TV characterisation. Alan Bennett's imaginative, witty and subtle style of writing grips the listener so that as each facet of the character unfolds, and each sentence spoken, you find yourself longing to hear more. Who is this person? What is her story? What is going to happen to her? In these remarkable monologues, presented for the Players by Andrea Wilkinson, Liz Slater and Joan Armstrong, Alan Bennett manages, very subtly, to touch upon a variety of social issues such as old age, loneliness, crime, social services, motherhood, to name but a few. You will be guaranteed a thought ­provoking and dramatic evening.

"Talking Heads" will be presented at 7.30 p.m. on Thursday, 20th, Friday, 21st and Saturday 22nd May 2004 in the W.I. Hall, Burton Bradstock.

The Box Office opens at Burton Bradstock Post Office on Tuesday 20^th April. Tickets: Adults £5, Children £2.50 (no refunds available). Enquiries to Gillian Knight: 01308 897879.

Long Bredy &Litton Cheney W.I.     OPEN MEETING

There will be an open meeting on Tuesday 4^th May in the Church Hall, Litton Cheney at 7.30pm to which all are invited. The speaker will be Litton resident Air Vice-Marshall Sir Christopher Coville whose talk is entitled "From Scouse to Grouse".

Non-members £1.00 to include refreshments.

Valley Walk

Litton Cheney Social Committee invite all recipients of the BVN to join us for a walk on the 3^rd Saturday of each month (weather permitting).  We aim to walk about five miles with a stop for lunch at a pub.  Please check the Litton page for details and to confirm the event each month.  The first walk will be on Saturday 17^th April to Puncknowle via Chilcombe.  We will meet at the Litton Bus Shelter at 10.00 am and aim to finish by 3pm.  We hope you can join us.                

Kathy Kourik Secretary 482552

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.

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Choir Practices                       Fridays at 6.00 p.m.

Bell Ringing Practices           Thursdays at 7.00pm

Gift Sunday                            11^th April  Rectory Decoration Fund

The next Service of Prayer for Healing at St Mary's  will be held on Tuesday 13^th April

The next Tiny Tots / Pram Service will be held at 11.00am on Friday 2^nd April at St. Mary's Church, Burton Bradstock.                                                                                                                   Yvette Smith ( 898219 )

Holy Week Services

Palm Sunday (4^th April) Services will follow the normal first Sunday of the month pattern, with an 8.00am Holy Communion and a 9.30am Special Palm Sunday Service.  Evensong will be at Chilcombe at 6.30pm. 

There will be no special Services on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday, although there will be the usual 10.00am Wednesday Holy Communion.  Compline Services will be at 7.00pm elsewhere in the Valley (see Valley notes). 

Maundy Thursday (8^th April) will have the special Eucharist, this year with foot washing, and with the removal of the hangings. 

On Good Friday there will be a 1¼ hour devotional Service which begins at 1.45pm, and there will be no Service on Easter Eve. 

Easter Day Services

These will follow the usual second Sunday of the month pattern but with an 8.00am Holy Communion added.  Canon Trevor-Morgan will be the 11.00am Celebrant. 

United Valley Evensong - 25^th April

Our only Service on this day will be a United Valley Evensong at 6.30pm at which the preacher will be our effervescent Bishop Tim (of Sherborne).  At the end of the Service he will formally license our Vicar as Rural Dean of the Lyme Bay Deanery. 

Anthony Ashwell

Snow White

Colour, corny jokes, laughter (and a few tears), movement, magic, music, audience participation.all ingredients for a good pantomime and all were found in abundance under Mike Read's professional direction.

Val Gale's costume designs, painstakingly worked by Ann Read and her team, were colourful and, with an eye for easy identification, aptly portrayed the characters they adorned - sinister black and mauve for the wicked stepmother chillingly played by Liz Slater who was worthy of every hiss that greeted her at each entrance; Chuckles' (endearingly played by Jake Dove) red and white suggesting the false bravado which hid a heart soft as butter; fickle Alonzo (Edward Ripley), who bowed and cringed before the Queen in his dark blue robes, complemented Chuckles in both costume and character; Dame Goodheart's (Mike Read) make-up (deftly executed by Rachael Haley and her helpers) and vulgar frocks with their shocking colours that matched his (her?) ungainly cavorting and innuendoes contrasted with the sweet and kindly Snow White's (Josie Powell) traditional appearance. Gemma Paul, long legged, elegant and commanding a stage presence beyond her years and experience, was a worthy Prince in whose arms we were happy to see his hard-won Princess. Gemma is to be congratulated on the skill she showed in stepping in to the part so late in the rehearsals. Libby Powell as the Fairy helped the story along its way; she spoke her words cheerfully and coped well with good natured barracking from the audience.

It was good to see so many youngsters taking leading roles and perhaps it was the youngest of them all, those delectable Friends, who stole the stage whenever they appeared; they spoke up well and their faces portrayed their obvious enjoyment and enthusiasm. Rachael Harper's "It wasn't me, I never tidy anything" was, for me, the line of the show.and Sue Moores got them onto the stage at the right moment every time!

As the Players' Chairwoman mentioned in her vote of thanks there were more people behind the scenes than on the stage. Mike Read was assisted by Daphne Ekins, John Ivall, Sarah Saddington managing the efficient stage crew, with Colin Forsey and Nick Good heading the technical teams. Peter Billingham's sets, ably constructed by Peter and team, were much admired. As the curtain opened on the second act there was no doubt in whose cottage we were - I loved the seven miniature beds constructed by Ian Allan and Trevor Ekins. Gill Redford and Peter Dutton faithfully attended "front of house" every performance, as indeed did Gill throughout the weeks of rehearsals providing welcome half-time sustenance for the cast. Shirley Ewart used all her skills as Musical Director and Choreographer to add to the movement and colour; having in the past experienced Shirley's directing I know how much hard work the chorus put in to their singing and dancing. Margaret Harding's accompaniment and patient one-to-one coaching throughout the months of rehearsal and during the week's performances were much appreciated by players and audience alike; she was enthusiastically joined by Hannah Linford on percussion.

So what did we come away with on a dull February evening? Certainly with a lightened heart, a giggle and memories of a thoroughly enjoyable hour or so - but it was the smiles that remain in my mind as I write; on the faces of the chorus as they tapped and twirled; on the "be-lipsticked" Dame as he ad-libbed the way through his lines; on Snow White as she mothered her Friends (come to think of it whenever did any of us see Josie without her lovely smile?); on cheerful Chuckles as he egged on both audience and actors;  but above all in the sparkling eyes of each one of those adorable Friends. 

Thank you, Players, for giving us such a treat.                                        S.P.

Let's Celebrate D-Day Anniversary on Saturday 5^th June

It has been suggested that Burton Bradstock holds a celebration to mark the 60^th Anniversary of D-Day. The idea put forward is for an afternoon/evening family party on the beach with music, a bonfire and individual pic-nics/B.B.Qs. If you would be interested in either attending or helping, or indeed if you have any alternative suggestions for a celebration, please contact me as soon as possible. It depends on the response to this article as to whether the party goes ahead.

Sheila Pett  897550

Burton Bradstock Village Society

Ann Cook made a visit to Ethiopia in 1996 before the ravages of drought and civil war had devastated the land and people. Her experiences were presented to the Society on 20th February in her talk entitled "An Eye Opener on Ethiopia" when she treated us to a breathtaking audio visual presentation.

We were shown a wonderful array of slides showing a lush green land full of happy people. The images were accompanied by the sounds of people going about their daily lives plus some very atmospheric music. Some villages had houses that were thatched down to the ground. We were taken through the Rift Valley and on to the Blue Nile Gorge. We were shown churches, some in the middle of nowhere, with beautiful stained glass windows and some were hewn out of solid rock, or sunk into the ground. One building was said to be the Queen of Sheba's Palace and there was the Temple of the Moon which was built in the fifth century B.C. out of square pieces of rock with no mortar. We saw magnificent castles built by the Warlords with proper heating and sanitation systems.

All in all a wonderful combination of stunning photography and sounds.

Peter Dutton

Burton Bradstock- Meeting of Co-ordinators

It is fourteen years since the Burton Bradstock Home Watch scheme was inaugurated and it continues to be effective in deterring crime in the village. This has only been achieved by the assistance of residents, work by co-ordinators and the local police. Unfortunately criminals are always watching for an opportunity to steal, cheat or short-change members of the public, so we must not relax our vigilance.

On Tuesday, 11th May at 7.30 p.m. at Hive Close there will be a meeting of all co­ordinators at which Sgt Colin Matthias, P.C. Nat Cameron and Mrs. Karen Taylor (Ringmaster Manager) will be present. As in the past, we shall be brought up to date with crime in the area and action to combat it. Anyone in the village who would like to assist our Home Watch is most welcome to attend by first phoning me. Would co-ordinators unable to attend this important meeting please advise me.

Please note that Mr. James Harding is now the Home Watch co-ordinator for Donkey Lane, Mill Street and Roberts Close. The list of all co-ordinators is displayed outside the Library and in the Post Office, and has been amended accordingly.

Freddy Tame Tel: 897957

Burton Bradstock Women's Institute

54 Members attended the March meeting and enjoyed a talk, with slides, given by Mr. Jim White on the work of English Nature in Dorset.

Do come and join us on Tuesday afternoons at 2.00pm for a friendly game of bridge in the W.I. hall, you would be most welcome (hall not available on 6th April).

A recent whist drive, organised by Mary Bailey, was won by Betty Drewery and Brenda Cheney. Members have enjoyed a course on bead weaving and displayed the jewellery they had made at the meeting.  Heather Thomson's reading group continues to meet once a month  as do Margaret Holmes' walking groups.

There is to be a skittles evening at Freshwater on the 13th April and outings to "Cats" and the Hampton Court Flower Show.

April begins our new W.I. Year and new members are always welcome. Proposed future social events are a Safari supper, a BBQ, a Quiz Night as well as our Spring Fair and later, our Christmas Dinner and New Year party.

Our next meeting is on April 13th at 7.15pm when the speaker will be Mr. Bob Hall on "Adventures of a Meter Man"

Agnes Barham

N.C.H.

Thank you to all who gave to our collection this February in Grove Road and Grove Orchard. Our collection amounted to £60, which was more than double on 2003. Thank you, too, from all the children this will help.                                                                                 J.S. Roberts

Mrs Ada Cox

Congratulations and best wishes to Mrs Ada Cox who will be 100 years of age on 15 April.

Ada and her late husband Henry lived for over 30 years at 3 St Lawrence, Burton Bradstock and is still fondly remembered. She now lives at Broadwindsor House but continues to receive the Bride Valley News and keeps in touch with Burton Bradstock.

SHIPTON GORGE

Village Correspondent: Mrs. Joy White

Eastcote  3 Gullivers Orchard  Shipton Gorge

Tel: ( 01308 )897974

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Holy Week and Easter Services

Tuesday 6^th April - Holy Tuesday - 7.00pm - Compline

Friday 9^th April - Good Friday - 11.00am - The Litany (led by the churchwardens)

Sunday 11^th April - Easter Day - 9.30am - Holy Communion

United Valley Service

The Bishop of Sherborne will be preaching at Evensong in Burton Bradstock on 25^th April and formally licensing our vicar as Rural Dean of Lyme Bay.  Although we have our usual Holy Communion that morning, please do your best to get to the important Valley event. 

Anthony Ashwell

Family Service

On 18^th April at 3.00pm there will be a Family Service for Easter with a Baptism and tea afterwards. All are welcome to our joyful service of praise, which will be taken by the Rev. Anthony Ashwell. There will be a special contribution from our young people, and Easter treats will be distributed after the service. There will be no Evensong on that day.

Shipton Gorge Homewatch

Recently, there have been a number of instances of bogus Utility Company employees calling on vulnerable residents, checking on reported water leaks, gas leaks and many other problems. If any callers come to your door, always use a safety chain and make sure they are bone fide representatives. If you are suspicious or pressured in any way never hesitate to dial 999 or contact Bridport Police Telephone Number 422266.

Frank Rogers Co-ordinator Tel. 897821

Village Plant Sale - advance notice

This will take place on Saturday 22nd. May from 10 a.m. - 12 noon. The later date will allow more time for seedlings to mature for the sale. Further details of this popular event will appear in the May issue of the Bride Valley News.

Shipton Gorge Village Society are having an Easter Bingo at the Village Hall on April 7th starting at 7.00pm

Shipton Gorge Village Hall 100 Club

Winners for the March Draw

SWYRE                                                                     

Village Correspondent: Sid Marshall

3 Green Barton, Swyre Tel: 897318

s.marshall@which.net

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Annual Church Meeting - Palm Sunday

This will take place within Evensong on Palm Sunday, 4^th April.  As we will be in BST the time is 6.30pm.* Do come along both to remember Palm Sunday and to hear about the life of the Church in 2003, and to plan for 2004. 

Good Friday Service

The Good Friday Service for the east end of the valley will be at 12 noon in our church and will last for about 1 ¼ hours. 

Easter Day Service

Easter Communion will be at 11 o'clock and will be led by the Rev'd Derek Heaver. 

United Evensong - 25^th April

We are all both invited and encouraged to go to the United Valley Evensong at 6.30pm on 25^th April in Burton Bradstock when the Bishop of Sherborne will preach and license our Vicar formally as Rural Dean of Lyme Bay. 

Anthony Ashwell

* Evensong will continue to be at 6.30pm throughout the spring and summer months.

A warm welcome to Kes and Mark who have moved into Berwick Cottages.

PUNCKNOWLE      SWYRE      WEST BEXINGTON

Correspondents: Elizabeth Slater & Sid Marshall

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PUN FUN - Book Sharing

For all the people of Puncknowle, Swyre and West Bexington.

Friday 30 April 7.30 - 10pm Puncknowle Hall

Share a book at Pun Fun - bring a book you have enjoyed to share and maybe loan amongst the group.  Modern or classic, fact or fiction - anything goes - even Giles!

Having now run for a full 12 months Pun Fun is certainly alive and kicking - our quiz evening in February attracted good contingents from both Swyre and Puncknowle and an enjoyable evening was had by all.

Everyone welcome - come and get to know more people from the villages - plenty of chance to chat.

Don't forget your favourite tipple and a donation towards the cost of hall hire and heating would be appreciated.

Contact Nos.898492/897751

Puncknowle and Swyre Parish Council 6^th April 2004

The Parish Council will meet at 7.30 on the 6^th April at Puncknowle Church Hall.

This month's Parish Council meeting on the 6^th April will see the new Clerk Mr. Derek Wolfe in office, and as the outgoing clerk I wish him well, in a position that has changed much, since I adopted the role 6 years ago. His phone number is 01297 35423.

Puncknowle and Swyre Annual Parish Meeting 20th April 2004

On 20^th April we will hold the Annual Parish meeting which is an opportunity for everyone to participate; it is serviced by the Parish Council, but otherwise is a 'free for all' session. We hope to have speakers to report on the different aspects of village life, and anyone wishing to be included in the agenda should contact the outgoing clerk on 897322. Among other matters we will discuss the shopping trips and what continued support there is for them; also the possible introduction of the Ring and Ride service. Please let us know if you, or anyone you know, are potential users of these services, even if you are not able to attend the meeting.

 Puncknowle Swyre and West Bexington Parish Council

After the March meeting of the Parish Council, the Parish Councillors said their thanks, and goodbyes, to three very hardworking people associated with the Parish Council.

Anna Lovell retired from her post as Parish Clerk, after several years. She will be much missed, not least for the indomitable figure seeking out blocked drains, and doggedly pursuing Local Government Officers in order to "get things sorted out". Anna will still be assisting the Parish Council in various matters close to her heart, particularly the provision of public transport for those who need it. Thank you Anna.

Carolyn Buckland also retired from her post as treasurer, now known as the Responsible Financial Officer, it is not always appreciated how vital it is to have "the books" kept in order, and Carolyn played her part skilfully and quietly as is her way.

Thank you Carolyn.

John Steel also decided that with a change of Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer, he would also hang up his pen, after many years of acting as the Council's Internal Auditor. To understand all the changes to the manner of auditing the Council's finances was no mean feat, and we were truly grateful to have been kept on the straight and narrow, in such a charming way. Thank you John.

We now look forward to working with our new Clerk, Derek Wolfe, who brings an extensive knowledge of the working of Local Government to the post, and David Buckland who has agreed to take up the reins as our Internal Auditor.

We hope that as many of you as possible will attend the Annual Parish Meeting on the 20^th April, and the Annual General Meeting of the Parish Council on the 4^th May.                                                    Madeline Marshall

(Chairwoman, Puncknowle and Swyre Parish Council)

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

  2^nd April - Quiz Nite.

11^th April - The Great Easter Quiz - a welcome return to a family favourite.

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

Puncknowle Swyre and West Bexington Homewatch

Community Vehicle - The community vehicle will be at Puncknowle Bottom between 5.30pm and 6.30pm on Thursday 29^th April. All are welcome to visit and hopefully learn something to their advantage.

Telephone Scam - Just a reminder that the telephone scam, detailed in the February Bride Valley News offering all expenses paid holiday trips, is still being perpetrated. Calls have been received by residents in Puncknowle recently. If you do receive this call immediately hang up and report it to BT. Always go by the old adage that "there is no such thing as a free lunch"                                                                                                                                                    Andy Marshall - 897732 

 PUNCKNOWLE & WEST BEXINGTON  

Village Correspondent:  Elizabeth Slater

1, Lytton Close, Puncknowle, Dorchester DT2 9BH

Telephone: ( 01308 ) 897751

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Holy Week and Easter Services

The programme for the whole valley is outlined under Valley Notes, and our Services are:

Palm Sunday - 4^th April - 9.30am - Family Service and Palms

Easter Day - 11^th April - 9.30am - Easter Communion

There is a Maundy Thursday Service at Burton Bradstock and Good Friday Devotional Services at Swyre and Burton Bradstock, with litanies at Shipton Gorge and Littlebredy. 

Low Sunday - 18^th April

There will be a United Service with Swyre at their church at 11.00am.  No Service at Puncknowle. 

Bishop Tim's Visit - 25^th April

We are all both invited and encouraged to go to the United Valley Evensong at 6.30pm on 25^th April in Burton Bradstock when the Bishop of Sherborne will preach and license our vicar formally as Rural Dean of Lyme Bay.  There will be no Service on this day in our church.  

Anthony Ashwell

Puncknowle Art Group

Our speakers in February went to a great deal of trouble and effort in their preparations. Sallie brought a host of activities on the subject of reflections which we all enjoyed. Michael J Chappell brought paints, brushes of all types and some helpful tips. We were treated to drawing exercises, a demonstration of brush strokes and a look at some of his seascapes. Thank you so much to both our speakers for all their hard work.

Dates for April are - 2nd pastels with Rowena Hampton, 16th - painting around Swyre church.

Christine Molony

Bride Valley Fledglings Playgroup - ( See page 8 of Valley Notes for this month's report )

Flowers for Easter - Saturday 10th April

We will be decorating the Church on Saturday morning at 10am.  Please bring any contributions - small bunches of primroses especially welcome.

Ann Roberts

The Crown Puncknowle Fundraisers

Thank you all again for another successful year.   Following our AGM in February we have donated a total of £4117.72 this past year..  This brings our total donated since we were established in 1996 to £33,239.86.  A full list of donations is available to view in the Crown.  If you have a request for a donation to a local individual/group or a national charity affecting local people then please do not hesitate to get in touch.  We are currently arranging our fundraising for the coming year.  The Wessex Military Band will be visiting us on Sunday 2nd May, 27th June, 18th July, 15th August and 5th September.  There will also be the usual BBQ brunch on these mornings.  Watch this space for more events.  Thank you again for all your support over the years and we look forward to another successful year!

Emma Foster

Puncknowle Online Project Group

The Puncknowle Web Site www.Puncknowle.org.uk is now up and running with a new host. The POPG meet regularly on the last Saturday of each month and Mick has kindly agreed that meetings can be held at the Crown at 1.00pm.  All are welcome.

LITTON CHENEY                                                          

Village Correspondent:

Mrs. Elizabeth Kingston, 5 Manor Farm Close

news4litton@bridevalley.net

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Holy Week and Easter Services

The programme for the whole valley is outlined under Valley Notes, and our Services are:

Palm Sunday - 4^th April - 11.00am - Parish Communion with Palms

Holy Wednesday - 7^th April - 7.00pm - Compline

Easter Day - 11^th April - 11.00am - Easter Communion

There are Maundy Thursday and Good Friday Services elsewhere in the valley. 

Bishop Tim's Visit - 25^th April

We are all both invited and encouraged to go to the United Bride Valley Evensong at 6.30pm on 25^th April in Burton Bradstock when our 'nearly new' Bishop of Sherborne will preach and license our vicar formally as Rural Dean of Lyme Bay. 

There will be no Service on this day in our church. 

Anthony Ashwell

Church Fete - 31^st May

Although it's only just April, it's not too early to start preparations for the Fete!  If you are skilled at handicrafts, now is the time to get busy making things for the Handicrafts and Gift Stall.  How about spring-cleaning your freezer?  If there is fruit lurking at the bottom, then please turn it into jam or chutney for the Produce and Provisions Stall.  Then there are plants - we need lots of them for our Plant Stall, so while you are planting seeds, potting on, splitting clumps and preparing your gardens for the summer, please put some things aside for us.  There will be a full list of all stalls and stall-holders in the May edition of the BVN.

Lent Lunch

There will be a Lent Lunch on Thursday 1^st April at 1 Litton Hill from 12.30 pm.    All are welcome.  Proceeds to Hope and Homes for Children (a small Salisbury based charity providing a family and a future for young victims of war or disaster).

The Mobile Library stops in Litton Cheney by the Bus Shelter between 3.25 and 4.10 pm.  The dates in April are Thursday 8^th and Thursday 22^nd.

Litton Cheney Social Committee

An enjoyable evening was had by approximately 40 people who joined us for the wine and wisdom event.  We had guards on the doors to bar the entry of the infamous winning team - see BVN March Littlebredy section, but they still managed to sneak in and win once again.  (They also won at the White Horse a few weeks before too!)  The (ex Hertfordshire) Hedgehogs were close on their tail this time though.

Thank you to all those who joined us for the litter pick.  We collected 12 large bags of litter - so a job well done.  I hope you have all noticed the improvement.

The Annual Duck Race - Easter Sunday 11^th April

Meet outside Fry's yard at 12 midday for the Duck Race - £1 a duck - prizes for the winners, followed by the Easter Egg Hunt for children in the White Horse Garden.  Stay and enjoy the Pig Roast that Rachel and Chris are organising at the pub.

Saturday 17^th April 10.00am, meet at the bus shelter for the walk to Puncknowle for lunch, via Chilcombe, about 5 miles.  (Weather permitting, ring if unsure.)  All BVN readers are invited and very welcome.

A date for your diary - Saturday 17^th July - The Summer Barbecue

                                                                        Kathy Kourik Secretary 482552

Litton Cheney Youth Club

The dates for April have yet to be confirmed but a canoeing session will take place on Sunday 25^th April.   For further details contact Paul Kingston 482384

Litton Cheney Lunch Club at The White Horse Inn, Thursday 29^th April

Advance dates for your diary - Litton Cheney Playing Field Association

The Annual General Meeting will be held on Thursday 20^th May

The Fifth Playing Field Fun Day Sunday 12^th September

Did you know?  In 1304 the village was granted an Annual Fair to be held in  September.  As it is now the 700^th anniversary are there any groups or individuals who would like to help reinstate this historic event.                                                                                        Katharine Jones 482589

Litton Cheney Vital Villages Steering Group

A draft questionnaire was displayed at the Village Assembly in March.  If you want more information about Vital Villages in Litton Cheney either view the village web site www.littoncheny.org.uk or email news4litton@bridevalley  We welcome everyone's interest and views.  The group is presently awaiting the funding to enable them to print and distribute the survey.

Parish Clerk Retirement

I have enjoyed being the Parish Clerk for the last five years.  Working with three Chairmen having very different ways of running the Parish Council has been quite an experience.  The appreciation the Parish Council has received for its work has been sufficient reward in itself.  Consequently I am overwhelmed by your generosity in presenting me with a magnificent pair of inscribed silver wine coasters.  In future my guests will expect something better than my usual plonk!  The cheque for the balance will go towards my next computer as the printer in particular has started to groan under the reams of paper used in executing the Council tasks.  Thank you all for putting up with me as Clerk and for all the help I have received over the last five years.  I wish the Parish Council a very successful future, and for them not to be overcome by all the recent government bureaucracy which is making it very difficult to run small Parish Councils on a voluntary basis.                                                                                                  John Rowlands

A Thank You from The Playing Field Association and The Youth Club.

Both organisations have benefited from the recent quizzes held in the village, so thank you to The Social Committee and The White Horse Inn for taking the time to organise the quizzes.  The pub will continue to hold a quiz night every month, so you to could benefit a charity of your choice so why not go along for a thinking and drinking night out!

Belated congratulations to David and Janice Hearn who celebrated their 10^th wedding anniversary and 40 years of marriage!

Congratulations to Eddy and Sheila Fry on the arrival of their latest grandchild.

LONG BREDY                                                         

Village Correspondent:

Mrs. Elinor Frost, Bridelands  ( 482269 )

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Holy Week and Easter Services

The programme for the whole valley is outlined under Valley Notes and our Services are:

Palm Sunday - 4^th April - 11.00am - Holy Communion with Palms

Holy Monday - 5^th April - 7.00pm - Compline

Easter Day - 11^th April - 11.00am - Family Service and Holy Communion

The Easter Service will be our usual combination of a short Family Service followed by a shortened Easter Communion to which all are welcome. 

Do look under Valley Notes for other Holy Week Services elsewhere in the valley. 

United Evensong with the Bishop - 25^th April

We are all both invited and encouraged to go to the United Valley Evensong at 6.30pm on 25^th April in Burton Bradstock when our Bishop Tim (of Sherborne) will preach and license our vicar formally as Rural Dean of Lyme Bay. 

Family Service - 18^th April

Our 9.30am Service will begin with a short Memorial Service for Peter Palm who died on 17^th April last year.  Weather permitting, we will process from church to Peter's Memorial Seat, then after readings, to his grave for prayers.  We'll then return to church for a shortened Family Service.                                                                          

Anthony Ashwell

Our grateful thanks to everyone who supported the Lenten Lunch at Long Bredy, as a result we were able to send £275 to "Send a Cow".

Thank you Robert and Jill Maltby for hosting this happy occasion.

Parish Council

The Parish Council would like to invite the young, the old and those of 'in between years' to come and help them Spring Clean the village on Saturday 24^th April.  We want to litter pick the highways and byways around the village (not the A35!!).

Turn up between 10:00 and 10.30am by the telephone box in the centre of the village, gloves and sacks will be provided.  An hour or so of your time is all we need.

Free refreshments will be available in the Village Hall for our willing helpers when the job is done.  The invitation to join us for coffee is also open to those people unable to help with the spring clean but would like to meet up for a chat.  Do join us.

If you would like to know more or even 'book a sack' please ring the Parish Clerk: Gwen Kinghorn on 01308 482270.

Mobile Library - Dates and Times in April

Puncknowle                                9:20 - 10:10am. }     

Swyre                                      10:20 - 10:35am  }      April 6^th and 20^th

West Bexington                        10:40 - 11:25am  }     

Long Bredy                                2:35  -   3:10pm }      April 8^th and 22^nd

Litton Cheney                             3:25  -   4:10pm }     

Thank you to the Village Hall Committee for the spring clean of the hall, the pressure cleaning of the wall plaque and the cutting back of the ivy on the roadside wall.

Long Bredy and Litton Cheney Women's Institute

Seventeen Long Bredy and Litton Cheney WI members met at the hall for our March meeting.  Mrs Ann Grey, who brought her collection of musical instruments from the time of Henry VIII, wonderfully entertained us.  Ann played the instruments, from simple horns, to recorders and whistles, a lovely lap harp and the huge wooden forerunner of the oboe.  Henry VIII wrote a lot of music and songs.  Ann sang some of the very jolly songs and all had a great evening's entertainment.

Our next meeting is April 6^th at Litton Cheney at 7:30pm.  It is our AGM and Mrs Wendy Challu will be present.  Would members please bring a plate of favourite food, plus the recipe for a tasty supper.

Elinor Frost

CHILCOMBE                                                                     

Sunday Services

With the beginning of BST our church warms up this month.  Our calendar for April:

April 4^th - Palm Sunday - 6.30pm - Evening Prayer

April 11^th - Easter Day - 8.00am - Holy Communion      Anthony Ashwell

LITTLEBREDY                                                               

Holy Week and Easter Services

The programme for the whole valley is outlined under Valley Notes and our Services are:

Good Friday - 9^th April - 10.00am - The Litany

Easter Day - 11^th April - 11.00am - Easter Communion

Do look under Valley Notes for Holy Week Complines, Maundy Thursday, fuller Good Friday Services, and Easter Day Family Service. 

Bishop Tim's Visit - 25^th April

The Bishop of Sherborne will be preaching at a United Valley Evensong in Burton Bradstock on 25^th April and formally licensing our vicar as Rural Dean of Lyme Bay. 

Although we have our usual Holy Communion Service that morning, please do your best to get to the important valley event. 

Annual Church Meeting

This vital meeting for all church members (on the Littlebredy Parish Church Electoral Roll) will take place at 7.30pm on Wednesday 21^st April.  All being well it will be at West Lodge.

Anthony Ashwell

LITTLEBREDY NOTES.

Sadly, we cannot quite claim Annette Hallett as the Champion of Champions in the world of ladies' bowls.  However, she did reach the last eight nationally in that competition at the beginning of March, having qualified through Club, County and Regional heats.  One day - the year Tim Henman wins Wimbledon, perhaps - the ultimate crown will be hers, but in the meanwhile, many congratulations indeed on another great achievement.

During April we say farewell to Alastair and Tessa Jackson, who have lived at The Old Parsonage for the last 14 years.  They move to Gloucestershire with best wishes from us all.

Easter arrangements in the village adopt the customary pattern.                     On Good Friday (9th April) at 10.00 a.m there will be the short, said,     Litany Service in Church.  Thereafter, a team will be busy in the Village Hall, bunching primroses which we hope as many people as possible will have helped to pick.  The writing in the Church windows alone needs over 200 bunches of about 20 heads each.  Judy Yates and her team - volunteers welcome (please ring 482307) - will start decorating the church after 3.00 p.m.

That same Friday evening, the Social Club is organising an Easter Egg Hunt in the village.  Meet at the Village Hall at 6.00 p.m.  The bar will be open and there will be supper provided at the end - a barbecue, weather permitting. 

On Easter Day (11th April) the Church service will be a Family                 Holy Communion at 11.00 a.m.  It is hoped that Canon Pouncey will have recovered enough from his recent stay in hospital to lead some or all of the service.  All - of any Christian denomination or none - are specially invited to this great celebration.

AT THE SIXTH HOUR

(A Poem for Easter)

The Temple veil is torn,

Rocks are riven in the sun

And Saints, long dead, their living likeness show.

Those Eyes that blessed are closed,

Marble now, the Hands that stretched and loved.

Mute the tongue that taught and brought new hope.

Dark the sun,

Terror in men's hearts

And women's throats a-choke with rage and grief.

Friend watches,

Mother weeps

Foreheads meet,

Tear mingles salt with tear

And arms encircle as he draws her near.

The crowds shiver now

And mouths grow dry with dread.

Uneasy triumph for the Pharisee

Whose stomach churns and ties itself in knots.

Triumph's flavour doesn't savour well.

And yet the reason is obscure

But victory is flat,

The taste is dull.

Today the grey ash, the dull ember

Tomorrow.............

The blaze that won't die!

                                                                        Bride Valley Resident