CHADRA

This issue of the Newsletter contains contributions from the Parish Council and the Editor giving detailed information concerning this application and the strategy being employed to try to prevent it's approval, so I will avoid repetition of such matters in these remarks. However, I urge all residents to do all they can to support the Parish Council in it's efforts to ensure that the appeal against the decision of North Avon District Planning Committee to reject the application does not succeed.

In particular such support will consist of writing to the Dept. of the Environment, and Mr. John Cope M.P., attending the Public Meeting to be held at the School on November 11th, and attending the hearing which will start on December 16th at Thornbury. Adequate publicity will be given to all these recommendations. Your committee will be co-operating with the Parish Council, in this joint effort and will be making a submission to the Inquiry on behalf of the residents. I would ask you to read carefully the relevant information and comments on other pages of this Newsletter. (Page 1, 2, 6 & 21)

THE PLAY AREA.

Considerable quantities of rubbish still appear on this area each day so please may I remind all concerned, and in particular the children, that there is now a litter bin which is quite close to the path. There was also on one occasion a quantity of broken glass which is most dangerous in such a situation.

After my remarks concerning litter in the last Newsletter I was contacted by residents who felt that dogs defecating on the grass surrounding the Play Area presents a greater danger to health than rubbish!

Without going into the question of dogs and their problems generally I ask owners to keep them from the grass in the Play Area. Children play on the grass as well as the tar-mac.

For Charfield Res. Assoc – G. Blower. Hon. Secretary.

With Christmas and the New Year between now and the next Newsletter may I please ask you all to make a note that last day for receiving Newsletter copy will be –

MONDAY 12th JANUARY, 1987.

R. Gunning, xx Manor Lane, Charfield. (Fal. 26xxxx)

Published by Charfield & District Residents' Association (CHADRA)

1

The Parish Council hopes that you have read the public notice circulated on a door-to-door basis on the subject of the proposed housing development and the public inquiry to be held in the Armstrong Hall, Thornbury on 16th December.

If this development is allowed it will open the door for large scale development which will change the lives of everyone in many ways both direct and indirect. It is essential that the Inspector who conducts the Inquiry has to hand the opinions of the people who will be affected. The weight of public opinion will count. Please write – now, while the subject is fresh in your mind to:

Department of Environment Room 1216 Tollgate House Houlton Street Bristol BS2 9DJ

John Cope MP Tudor House Chipping Sodbury Bristol

quoting reference APP/G0120/A/86

The Parish Council will continue to keep the village informed of the action they are taking and they will be holding a special public meeting on 11th November at 7.00 p.m. at the school. The planning professionals who will be representing the Parish Council at the planning inquiry will be attending this meeting.

Still continuing the subject of housing development in Charfield, the Parish Council has received a further planning application form the same applicants as above for a slightly smaller area of land for 170 houses.

The Council was saddened to hear of the recent death of Mr A Joe Honeybourne, for many years District and County Councillor. Mr Honeybourne was a great help to the Parish Council in working for the benefit of the community and he will be sadly missed.

Following the fire at Tortworth Copse Waste Disposal Site, the Trading Standards Officer confirmed that although the fumes caused by the fire were toxic, it was not a hazard. Since the fire the Council has been assured that steps have been taken to ensure that this does not happen again.

The Parish Council send their congratulations to Miss Susan Pagett who won two gold and two bronze medals at the Special Olympics.

In the recent Best Kept Village Competition Charfield was placed in the bottom section, receiving a very low mark. Litter was certainly a problem as was the condition of the public convenience. It will be interesting to see a full report and perhaps improve by next year – although the support of everyone will be the initial requirement.

Following a meeting with the newly appointed County Transport Officer, the Parish Council is setting up a Committee to look into travel needs. Mrs Blower who runs the present volunteer scheme for the Elderly and Housebound will also be taking part. The Council was assumed by the County Officer that the present bus services would not be altered for the time being following the organisational changes taking place in October. However in the meantime any comments on services or requirements would be welcome.

Jenny Hughes (Clerk to the Council)

2

THEN WHERE NEXT?

How many really believe that further development outside the Village designated boundary would be a good thing and would bring the extra facilities which developers hold before us like carrots before a donkey? We are not donkeys, but intelligent people who know that developers cannot provide Drs. Surgeries, extra Educational facilities for the children or the youth of a Village. Their only concern is to build houses, make their profit and move on! The local authorities are the only ones who can provide facilities, and for them to do so means increasing rates! The Parish Council has already been assured by local doctors that they are not prepared to man a Surgery in Charfield. The School Governors have campaigned for a number of years for better school facilities. What makes developers think they can work the oracle? Even if they allocated land for a better Village Hall with more facilities for the young people, who will foot the bill? – Not them!

Do we really think that the extra housing in Wickwar will do anything to enhance facilities there? Make the traffic problem even worse more likely.

Policing, Fire and Ambulance services are not the concern of developers, but are of great concern to people living on a boundary line of two Counties, such as Charfield. It is very doubtful whether transport would be improved, something else over which developers have no control.

We should ask ourselves is there a need for 350, or even 175 houses outside the Village boundary? There are always various types of property on the market in Charfield, and a recent survey shows that many residents move within the Village to more suitable property for their individual needs.

One important factor which must not be over-looked if this development is allowed it will open the flood-gates and more land around the Village will be next. Do we want another Yate? That's how it all started there, and as we know is now spreading into Wickwar. Is it to be Charfield next? Make no mistake this proposed development large or reduced in size, will affect the whole of Charfield, not just a small section, as it may appear.

Open countryside, as pleasant as it is, is not the vital issue, but the effect an the entire community is. Increased population will also bring Urban problems, such as drugs and vandalism, to say nothing of extra litter, which cannot be ignored. This will not be the concern of developers. We have already lost the chance of the Best Kept Village Competition this year – one point made against us was litter!!

Have you noticed that quite often land-owners [are] no longer interested in the environment in which they have grown-up, invariably [they] move away before selling land for development – they don't want it – nor do we!

So often criticism is made about District Councils and Parish Councils not being sufficiently concerned with local issues; as you will have read in the recent letter signed by the Parish Clerk, every effort is being made to carry out the wishes of the majority of Charfield residents, so please back their efforts to the hilt.

The application for a smaller development on the site in question, which remember is outside the Village boundary, will no doubt meet with the same strong objections for if this was allowed it would be the “edge of the wedge” for further development.

Editor.

3

Hello!
It's time for my article again, and it is my intention to give you a couple of items to think about, but the bulk of my article will be advice on one subject which I keep pushing “CRIME PREVENTION”.

Firstly, ROAD SAFETY, Winter, dark nights, rain fog, ice and snow. Is you vehicle in good order? At least give yourself a fighting chance. Please check and make sure your lights, windscreen wipers, windscreen washers, tyres and brakes are the best they can be, not just legal.

Secondly, to cyclists and the parents of cyclists. It appears that despite three years of cycle proficiency and previous articles the message has not got through to everyone.

IT IS ILLEGAL TO CYCLE ON FOOTPATHS!
PLEASE DO NOT DO IT.

Also, as the nights get longer have you or your children got lights (that work) on your cycles – you may need them.

CRIME PREVENTION OR HOW SECURE IS YOUR PROPERTY?

Questions –

• If you forgot your keys how would you break into your property?
• If you have thought of an answer easily, and don't forget you are thinking of the minimum damage, which a burglar doesn't care about.
• Maybe you ought to re-evaluate the security of your home.

1. Windows.
   If you have double glazed units, you are one step in front, but they can still be broken (expensive!) Is the catch of your windows lockable so even if the glass is broken you will cannot open the window frame? An alternative to locks on the catches is to bolt the window shut.
   There are a number of good products on the market which will enable you to add this security to your home – you do not have to be a do-it-yourself expert, and they are reasonably priced.
   Note. The burglar doesn't like climbing in through broken glass. Generally glass is broken in a window or door to allow it to be opened, not to get in.
2. Patio Doors.
   A relatively modern innovation, useful and beautiful, but can be another means of entry for the burglar. Again this has been thought about by the security experts and two small unobtrusive locks have been developed. They are easily fitted at a small outlay and can give the peace of mind we all desire.
3. Doors.
   Has your door got the old type Yale lock? NOT VERY GOOD! Much more preferable is a 5 or more lever mortice lock. (The only way this can be opened is by a key). The other alternative is to change the Yale lock for what is known as double dead lock. (This lock looks like to conventional Yale lock but with the key you can secure the mechanism so the lock cannot be opened without the key).
   Bolts. The old fashioned slide across bolt can look ugly and if our burglar has got inside by a window they offer no protection. New bolts have been produced which cannot be seen except for a small key-hole. These bolts are wound into place with a special key and cannot be removed without the key.
   NOTE. The burglar even if he gets into your property by a window will always want to have a door open for an escape route or to remove your possessions.
4. 4Burglar Alarms.
   THESE FALL INTO THREE CATEGORIES.
   (a) Audible Only, can be fitted by an Alarm Company or there do-it-yourself Kits on the market, which gives an audible alarm when activated.
   (b) 999 Auto Dial System. This type of alarm must be fitted by an Alarm Company. When activated it will via your telephone contact the Police automatically, followed a short time afterwards by an audible alarm.
   (c) 24 hour Monitoring System. The most secure of all alarm systems. Your alarm is monitored 24 hours a day by the Alarm Company. (Very expensive). Burglar Alarms are an excellent deterrent and along with the other security measures I have mentioned, should certainly protect your house.
   NOTE. Please remember if you fit a burglar alarm or have an alarm fitted, the Police will require a list of people who we refer to as key holders. We need to be able to get hold of your key holders if the alarm activates, to check the premises and re-set the alarm.
   Would you like a loud bell ringing next door to you all night?

If you need any further information or more advice about Crime Prevention please contact me at Charfield Police Station and I will do my best to help you. And, if you follow my advice please remember to take your keys with you!

P.C. Ian Williams.
Charfield Police Station.
Dursley 84xxxx.

This scheme is available to any person in Charfield who needs to visit a hospital, doctor, dentist or clinic and cannot arrange transport.

Ante-natal visits to the doctor or hospital can be difficult if 'buses are not at convenient times, and this also applies to mothers with children who have to visit Thornbury Clinic.

I have mentioned this as our title might be misleading as it suggests that only the elderly can make use of the service.

This is a door-to-door service by car drivers and the charge is at 11p a mile (Wotton 85p).

If there is anybody with a car who has a few hours free (even if it is only one day a week) and is willing to drive for hospital and doctor's appointments, please 'phone Fal. 26xxxx. I will not ask you more than once a month and usually, not as often as that.

Muriel Blower.
Fal. 26xxxx.

The Harvest Festival at the Lodge was held recently, and Mr. P. Ellis kindly had his Organ transported to the Lodge and played the hymns, which added to the enjoyment and pleasure of all who were able to attend.

Recently one of the Trustees gave an interesting talk about the aims and work of Yercombe to Charfield W.I.

Anyone who would like further information, particularly about the Day Centre held for the handicapped, should contact P. Ellis, who will be pleased to hear from you.

'Phone Fal. 26xxxx.

5

At the start of this season we are pleased to be able to report that we now have three teams playing in our junior club.

The under 12's are as usual very well subscribed to with 25 boys signed on, this in itself provides something of a headache for the Manager as how do you give a regular game to so many boys when the first team squad are playing well and winning their games? So, a few friendly and reserve matches will be arranged throughout the season. The under 14's are under a new Manager, Mike Colbourn, and they have had a good start to the season, with 17 boys in the squad they can all expect to get games throughout the season.

The under 16's deserve a special mention, after numerous adverts, around the Village, at the start of the season, we had 4 boys signed-on. Their first few games were played with those 4 boys and members of the under 14 and under 12 teams, and with all the best intentions in the world boys of that age coming up against teams of big lads, all 16 years of age, they just ran out of steam by the end of the games and the defeats have been big. The boys though have not given up and have come off the pitch still smiling and have all turned up again the following week for the next game. Things are now looking up though, as with the help of a few more boys from the Village coming forward, and some from Kingswood and Wotton we now have a full squad of 13 all just under 16, and after three weeks of no football the boys are looking forward to going out for their first game as a real under 16 team.

With the darker evenings now coming on training sessions will soon be held at K.L.B. on Thursday evenings, times to be confirmed by the Managers.

We are holding our first ever sponsored walk on Nov. 8th, for the boys, their parents and friends. It will be approx. 7 miles. Full details and entry forms will be available in a week.

Looking forward, our Christmas Disco and Annual Christmas Draw will be held on Saturday 20th December, at 8.00 p.m. More details later.

Mrs. J. Harvey.
Fal. 26xxxx.

Just recently several new-comers have been observed walking around the Village. If you have recently some to live here you will receive a warm welcome from any of the Village Clubs mentioned on the back page of this Newsletter, whichever one you may decide to join. We hope too that you will buy our Newsletter published 4 times a year – 15p a copy or 60p paid at the beginning of each year.

Residents Assoc.

6

By the time you read this copy of the Newsletter we will have had the last of our Car Boot Sales, and be looking forward to the Christmas Craft Fair, which is on SUNDAY NOV. 30th. at 10.00 a.m.–4 p.m.

We have over 30 Stalls already booked this year and a waiting list of 8 so there should be something for everyone to see and buy.

The children's Discos are being very well attended and the splitting up of the age groups into different times has helped us to adapt the music etc., to each age group's needs.

The next Disco is on OCTOBER 10th, 6.30–8.15 for 7 yrs. to 11 yrs. and 8.30–11.0 for K.L.B. age.

I have had several enquiries about holding an over 21's Disco so if anyone feels this, would be worthwhile please contact me, and I will see what we can do.

One other date for your calender will be our 0–8 yrs. Christmas fun afternoon, which is attended by Father Christmas himself! This is to take place on Saturday DECEMBER 20th 2.00–4.00 p.m. and mums and dads are also welcome.

May I take this very early opportunity to wish you all a very merry Christmas and New Year, and hope that if you have any comments to make about the Village Hall or Playing Field you will not hesitate to contact me –

Jane Hall. Chair-lady.
Fal. 26xxxx.

For the benefit of New-comers to the Village maybe it is necessary to make a few points clear regarding the development proposed off Manor Lane/Lt. Bristol Lane. The Parish Council, District Council, and County Council and majority of residents rejected the planning application for 350, or less houses, on this site outside the Village boundary. Now it is a subject of Public Inquiry before the Ministry of Environment to be heard on 16th Dec.

The main points raised in the objections were:- the Village would be increased by half and destroy it's character. The impact on road and drainage, effect an educational and social facilities.

If this development was allowed outside the boundary line, it would open the flood-gates for yet more applications, so let's not delude ourselves by rash promises made by developers. We don't want another Yate – do we?

The campaign against this development has reached it's final and crucial stage, so if you agree with the objections please write as soon as possible to the two addresses given on the Parish Council communication recently put through your door from the Parish Clerk.

The appeal No. Ref. is – APP/G0120/A/86/45987. and to refresh your memory the letters should be sent to:-

Dept. of the Environment Room 1216. Tollgate House, Houlton Street. Bristol. BS2 9DJ.

Mr. John Cope M.P. Tudor House, Chipping Sodbury. Bristol.

S. Clifford Gunning.
Chairman Charfield
Parish Council.

7

The day proved profitable as well as enjoyable. The weather was quite good, which always makes a difference.

Although we were let down by a couple of advertised attractions there seemed to be something going on all the afternoon both on the field and inside the Hall.

As always, not all bills have been paid, and a little extra has yet to be collected, but with these taken into consideration, an approximate figure of £1,000 was made this year which will go to major improvements of the Village Hall. Very many thanks to everyone who helped in any way to make the day such a success.

This year's A.G.M. was held on 5th Sept., and brought forward some new faces as well as ‘regulars’. A new Committee was able to be chosen (fourteen this time) so good luck to them in their preparations for next year which of course starts straight away. The date for next Year has been set for JULY 11th.

Once again many thanks to this year's Committee for their hard work.

Anne Stoakes.

SPORTS & GALA DAY 1987! JULY 11th.

Mr. Keith Smith has been elected Chairman of the above Committee for next year. Offers of help or support before and on the day will be much appreciated. For any information you may require please 'phone Keith – Fal. 26xxxx.

You never know where you are going to see C.A.B. in print. “Sporting Life” recommended stable staff to take their employment problems, especially deductions from pay to the Citizens Advice Bureau – just one type of query handled this year by us. In another category, many people on Supplementary Benefit find it difficult to make ends meet, and single payments could provide the answer. These cover a wide range of needs from furniture to bedding and baby clothes, but even if you are not eligible you may be able to claim other benefits, so do ask us to help you work out your claim for consideration by the D.H.S.S.

The National Consumer Council say that anyone injured in an accident where another party is at fault may be able to claim compensation. Only about 10% of people thus injured make a claim although claims for personal injury can be made up to 3 years after the accident. People who feel taking action is too complicated or expensive can be advised by the C.A.B. on procedure.

This is the time of year when fuel bills loom and old age pensioners run the risk of hypothermia trying to save on heating. C.A.B. can advise if you claim housing benefit, family income supplement or supplementary benefit for those on low incomes.

The Wotton-under-Edge Bureau is open every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Chippings so whatever the problem call or 'phone Dursley 84xxxx and we will be happy to help. Regular visits are made to the Friendship Club to save O.A.Ps the hassle and expense of the journey to Wotton.

This will be my last Newsletter before retirement, having been a voluntary worker for the C.A.B. for 20 years. I have very much enjoyed this worthwhile job and I will remember with pleasure the many friends I have made over those years. Mrs. Barbara Adams, a highly trained and sympathetic worker will take over the Wotton Bureau, and will, I feel sure, continue to give the best possible service to the community.

Jean McGonnigill.
Organiser.

8CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU.

Jean McGonnigill was largely responsible for setting up the Wotton-under-Edge extension of Stroud Citizens Advice Bureau and has been in charge of it every since.

When a change of premises became necessary a few years ago, it was she who worked hard to find suitable accommodation in the town. It is also thanks to Jean's happy relationship with the local council that the costs of running the Bureau are so low.

We at the Stroud Bureau will greatly miss Jean's enormous energy, enthusiasm and, not least, her sense of humour. We know that this will be equally true in Wotton. All of us will wish her a long and fulfilling retirement.

It is fortunate that Barbara Adams, who has been trained by Jean for several years, will be able to take over running the Bureau so that the people of the Wotton-under-Edge district, including Charfield, can continue to benefit from it's services.

Stella Martin.
Organiser, Stroud C.A.B.

Christmas Activities.

You may appreciate advance notice of the dates of our Christmas activities this year.

Register for 1987.

I have to inform Avon of the anticipated number of children who will be starting school in Sept. 1981. If you have not already registered your child with me, would you please do so.

I would also be grateful if you would pass this information on to anyone to whom it applies.

D.A. Malpass.
Headmaster.

9

Archdeacon (of Gloucester) Christopher Wagstaff will be visiting our Church to share in our Eucharist on Sunday the 16th November, at 10.15 a.m. He will be preaching on that occasion, as he did at our Harvest Service last year, an occasion which, he assures me, he remembers with great pleasure. I would like to welcome YOU to this Service. I am sure you will enjoy it and, clearly, we want to give as good a welcome as we can to the Archdeacon. If you don't normally come to this Service, you would still be welcome: it is acceptable to be present at this Service and not to take Communion. Already some do this. Whichever it is, do try and come. The THIRD Sunday in November.

The 9th November is Remembrance Sunday. As is usual on this day there will be an act of Remembrance at the Village War Memorial at 10.55 a.m. (for the two minute's silence at approx. 11.00 a.m.). This will be followed by a short Service in Church. On the afternoon of this day, we always have a United Service with the Congregational Church in the Village, and this year it will be our turn to visit their Church for this.

On Sunday the 7th December, we shall be having a Christingle Service at 3.00 p.m. This is for ALL, but there is an accent on the children's involvement in the Service, so they are specially welcome. (There will be no Sunday Club in the morning on this day to encourage afternoon attendance). Collection on this occasion will be divided between the Children's Society (Homes) in this Country and a project for children in the ‘THIRD’ World.

Our Church Carol Service will be, as always, on the Sunday before Christmas; that means this year, on Sunday the 21st of December, at 3.00 p.m. This is always a happy occasion and the more that attend, the happier it makes us all. It is a good thing, on the verge of Christmas, amid all the business, to make a space to remember what it is all really about. So do please make a note of this too, and do your very best to come.

On MONDAY the 22nd Dec., we shall be carolling in the Village. I mention this, NOT so that you can be out, but so that you may know who it is that evening! We shall be leaving Church at 7.00 p.m. that evening and if you would like to join us, you will be welcome to do so. (In that case you will not be in!) It is not possible to cover the whole Village in an evening, so if we don't come your way, it is not because we don't love you! We shall cover as much as we can and apologies if that shouldn't include you.

Our Christmas Services, to which you are all most welcome, are: on 24th December at 11.30 p.m., our Midnight Mass of Christmas; on Christmas Day a Family Eucharist, at 10.00 a.m. – suitable for children.

Warm greetings to you – at all times.

Kenneth G. Grant.

Sunday	Family Service	11.00 a.m.
	Evening Worship	6.00 p.m.
	November to end of March Afternoon Worship	3.00 p.m.
Tuesday	Bright Hour (fortnightly)	3.00 p.m.

All are welcome – any enquiries – Miss M. Turner, Fal. 26xxxx.

10Keep on keeping on.

Keep on going on and up towards the goal in view,
Set your eyes upon the summit etched against the blue
Keep on struggling with your load and some day you will rest,
Looking out with joy upon the highest and the best.

Keep on dreaming lovely drams and paying as you climb
Faithful to your vision all the way and all the time.
Keep on striving though it seems your strength has all but gone
You will be rewarded if you keep on keeping on.

But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. Isaiah 40-31.

Miss M. Turner, Congregational Church.

As I write this once again this year's house-to-house envelope collection is under-way, and may I say thank you in anticipation for yet another good response. You obviously feel it is a worthy cause – after all we are very much more fortunate than some of the children your money goes to!

May I also urge that you do not forget those coffee jar labels. After all they usually get thrown away so don't throw money away. I have some more envelopes for your coffee jar labels should you heed any so don't hesitate to call and collect them from – xxx Manor Lane, Charfield.

Used postage stamps as well to the same address will be much appreciated and passed to the appropriate source.

Marion Smith.

Mother & Toddler Group membership is still increasing and there are many people attending weekly. We have recently had a photographer to take photos. of our little ones, all went very well and most behaved impeccably, the results were very good.

Forthcoming events are:- the SPONSORED KNIT, to be held at xx Farm Lees, on the 20th OCT. at 8.00 p.m. The little ones CHRISTMAS PARTY on THURS. 18th DECEMBER, not forgetting the mothers night out venue and date yet to be fixed.

Just a quick reminder or for anyone interested Mothers & Toddlers meet every Thursday morning from 10.15 a.m. until 11.45 a.m. where we have coffee, cake and a well earned rest, while the little ones play safely around us.

Mary Chatworthy.
Secretary.

11

During the first week of August, a corp of volunteers coped with many of the village children of infant and junior School age groups, during the morning and afternoon sessions from the Monday until the Thursday.

Some children managed to come to every session whilst others showed up only once or twice, depending upon other family arrangements. Even so, by the end of Thursday afternoon 658 contributions @ 10p a session had been recorded.

This income helped to supplement the grant from the Parish Council and the District Council, and also helped to subsidise the Play Scheme Outing on the Friday to the Tropical Bird Garden at Rhode, Nr. Frome. However, since 118 children and adults went on this trip, the Parish Council considers that in future some adults, other than the authorised helpers, ought to pay a more economic rate.

By “authorised helpers”, we mean those adults, or the older children who were officially accepted by us as “monitors”, since whilst Mrs. Hart and Mrs. Armstrong-Smith were appointed to be the Play Leaders, we were also relying on the good-will of other adults to offer themselves for one or more sessions. Many did but we could have done with more, since for some sessions, we were “a bit thin on the ground” to give as much supervision as possible, particularly where the very young children were concerned.

Full marks though to those who did help and it would be difficult to mention names for fear of leaving someone out, but once more we older ones did appreciate the diligence of some of the monitors in occupying the juniors in the more active pursuits, as well as some of the intricate indoor games.

Unfortunately a letter from the Fire Service went astray due to holidays of the recipient and we therefore missed their anticipated contribution to the week, but we did have an excellent in-put once more from our local policeman and one of his special constables. Among other items their poser of a “crime” which had taken place, and the relevant clues they set out to help identify the culprit, occupied both the juniors and the monitors alike!

All in all, a pleasant week – albeit a tiring one – yet finishing on a high note whereby all the youngsters wished the Play Scheme could have continued for a second week.

May I then as the “link man” express the thanks of the Parish Council to all who gave of their time and energy, and also thank you from the Headmaster and the School Care-taker for leaving the premises so neat and tidy!

Rev. David Parker.
Charfield Parish Council.

The commonly accepted definition is ‘sound which is undesired by the recipient’. In other words, noise can be any sound which intrudes or disturbs or annoys.

Noise sources which can be the subject of by-laws include:-

Playing musical instruments, radios, cassette recorders, etc. in the Street near houses, Church or Hospitals.
Noisy animals, such as barking dogs.
Noisy conduct in Streets at night.

Extract from booklet which can be obtained from C.A.B. Local Council Office, or Dept. of Environment.

12

Hello,
On Monday 22nd Sept., our Annual General Meeting was held in the Chapel Schoolroom. The new committee was elected and a list of the officers appears at the end of this article.

Last year enough money was raised to improve the facilities at Play-Group, and to purchase new toys, games and musical instruments for the children.

This year it is our intention to change the heating in both rooms to a more efficient system, so needless to say we will be asking for your support in our fund-raising attempts over the next 12 months. The first of these is a Halloween Disco on 31st Oct. in the Village Hall, at 2.00 p.m.–5.00 p.m. This is to be held for children of 3–8 years of age, and they will be invited to attend in fancy dress, for which there will be a small prize. Look out for posters around the Village.

Also, we are going to hold a “Bazaar” at Play-Group on Thurs. 20th November, at 2.00 p.m. There will be a Nearly New Stall, Toys and Book Stall, Cake Stall, Bran Tub and other fascinating items. Everyone is welcome. Just bring plenty of money!

We would like to welcome Mrs. Lynn Spindler and Mrs. Julie Hillier as joint Leaders, replacing Mrs. Carol Tarry, who after 10 years valiant service has decided she deserves a rest. Thank you Carol, for your time and dedication. We all hope your “retirement” will be just as happy, if a lot less noisy, than your years at Play-Group. I would also like to welcome two new faces to Play-Group. Mrs. Ros. Williams, and Mrs. Cherry Buckley, who along with Mrs. Sally Griffiths will be assisting the Leaders.

As Secretary, I need your help to make sure all eligible children are registered for Play-Group for this year and next. If your child has not been registered, or if you are not sure please get in touch with me and I will endeavour to make the necessary arrangements.

If you have any problems or enquiries about Play-Group, please contact me at the Police Station and I will try to help.

Rene Williams.
Dursley 84xxxx.

Every Tuesday at 10.30 a.m.–11.30 a.m. in the Village Hall, Keep Fit class is held under the supervision of Mrs. Val Jones of Kingswood, with her own music.

The first four weeks after the break has been quite rewarding with an attendance of 14–15 each week.

Several new members have joined us, and we should like to welcome any new-comers to the Village. See you on Tuesdays?

Mrs. Poskett.
Fal. 26xxxx.

13

Or, as we are also known “The over 60's club”. Some of our members are founder members, and are as keen as when the Club was founded. We still extend an invitation to new “over 60's” to come along on alternate Wednesday afternoons.

We had a very interesting talk with slides of the Village scenes including several views of local industries, and various buildings now gone.

We also arrange trips to towns or seaside resorts – some are full days, and some are half days, catering for those who cannot travel long distances. We were fortunate with the weather too, considering the Summer experienced, with visits to Weymouth and another to Sidmouth and Seaton. One of our next venues will be to Swindon to do some Christmas shopping, which reminds me, we have organised a Christmas draw to offset the ever rising cost of renting the Memorial Hall, and mini 'bus mileage. We hope you will support us in this effort as you did last time.

May I take this opportunity to wish you a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.

E.H. Orton.

I wonder slightly at the accuracy of this title “Ladies Netball Club“ as sometimes it's suspiciously like a rugby scrum, and occasionally “tackles“ are decidedly un-ladylike! However, as you might have gathered, we don't take ourselves too seriously and play really for a bit of fun and relaxation from the daily grind. Having said that, it's quite hard work and for those of us who only get that hour's exercise a week (e.g. me!) it is very necessary to re-coup our strength in the pub. afterwards.

We would very much like to welcome new members and you don't need to be a superfit, ex-school champion to join. (In fact, we would rather you weren't – it shows the rest of us up!) Most of us hadn't played Netball since school, and some not at all, but it isn't important as the rules are very easy to pick up. Our members ages are between 14 & 40. It costs 40p for juniors and 70p for the senior citizens, i.e. over 18's. We play between 7.15 p.m. and 8.15 p.m. on Tuesday evenings at K.L.B. Sports Hall and anyone needing a lift from the Village can contact me, Mandy, on Fal. 26xxxx.

Finally, we had to raise some funds in a hurry when the Sports Hall decided to bill us in advance and a very big Thank You to all those who supported and helped at our disco, also those who gave cakes and their valuable time at our Stall on Sports Day. Both events were very successful and have enabled the Club to continue, and so now we look forward to hearing from all you new members!

Mandy Bird.
Tel. Falfield 26xxxx

There is a school coach that leaves Charfield every morning at 8.00 a.m. to take children to Thornbury and the Castle School.

The coach is operated by Rover coaches and paid for by Avon County Council Education Transport Dept. Officially there is a charge made for this service, and I would suggest that anyone wishing to avail themselves of this service should contact the Education Dept., for further information.

R.G. Alder.

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Dear Mums, hello!

Well, I start off by hoping that you all had a great summer. I seemed to mumble the fact that we were only going to Kent for our holidays, but what a time we had. The weather was fantastic, which was just as well as I refused to buy another plastic mac!

Anyway, one morning the weather girl said “whatever you were doing that day do it by eleven as it would be chucking it down”. Well, by five the only water we had faced was the sea, and I was burnt something rotten. I had Actually developed hot pink thighs in Gt. Britain. Well on that note I'd better get down to business.

Three mums have left the Circle; Doreen Vickerson; Wendy Jotcham, and Pat Waring. I'd like to wish Doreen and Wendy all the best in their new homes, and to thank Pat for her support all these years in the Circle since James was two. I thought a bronzed plated washer would be rather a nice gift. Thank you Pat.

I'd also like to take this opportunity to thank all of you who sponsored me in the Fun Run for Save the Children Fund. On the morning of the run my two were screaming their heads off and I couldn't believe that I would be running to save any little darlings!

As I was legging round the Clifton Downs, Keith was here, being ace trainer shouting things like “come on you'll knock 10 minutes off last years time”! I felt a right twit – still he was good encouragement.

Don't forget anyone wishing to 'phone this mad house and join the Circle please do so at Fal. 26xxxx.

Thanks,
Marilyn Smith.

Let me introduce myself even though I have been with the Pack for a while I have just taken over from Audrey Booth as Akela. At the moment we have 28 boys in the Pack who are all working hard for their Arrows, 7 of which have just been invested. I hope in October to be taking in 4 new boys.

We have had 2 Camps this year. The first was at Avening Green Tortworth; this gave us the opportunity to say farewell to Audrey with a cake and a present. We all thanked her for the hard work she had done and I hope I can continue in the same way.

Our 2nd Camp was at Woodhouse Park, Almonsbury. We attended the Fun Day at Ashton Court to celebrate the 70th anniversary of Cub Scouting known to the boys as Rainbow Year.

Coming events are a Fun Day at the Conygres in Wotton put on by our Scout troop, also a Parents Evening so that the boys can show what they have been doing.

Nigel Kingscott and Graham Marshall are about to start their link badge.

The Leaders have been busy too, I have just completed a Pack Holiday Course and Sue Beavis is about to start her basic training at Woodhouse Park.

Yours in Scouting –
Audrey Chappell.

15

I would like to clarify any impression portrayed in the latest Charfield edition of the Conservative Party pamphlet, “In Touch” that the Charfield school feasibility study on improved facilities – including the children's toilets, has emanated from the initiative of their political party.

The need for improvements has appeared on the Agenda of the School Governors meeting for a considerable time, particularly subsequent to the “shelved” 1968 phase 2 plan prepared by the Gloucestershire County Council. It had to be deferred with the upheaval of Local Government Re-organisations and then came the cutbacks on public expenditure.

In 1983, H.M. Inspectors visited the school and whilst they reported favourably on the academic work they formally recorded the need for structural improvement and shared the concern of the School Governors when we all met together. The Governors then persuaded the L.E.A. to at least undertake a feasibility study and when nothing accrued, the Governors and the P.T.A. met with the constituency M.P. who courteously indicated that he could not help with any cash flow.

Eventually our steady lobbying of Avon House paid off, with the support of our constituency County Councillor who made a personal visit to see the facilities.

Even so, the Governors are exercising caution since whilst a feasibility study will indicate the possibility of expenditure in 2–3 years time, one can only hope and pray that no further national and/or local financial crisis will cause further delay.

Rev. David W. Parker.
Chairman Charfield School Governors.

Dear friends,

Thank you all so much for the wonderful clock you presented me with on the last day of term. It will always be a “Timely” reminder for me of ten very happy years spent with you all past and present.

I wish every success to the new Supervisors Ros. & Cherry, and best wishes to Lyn, Julie and Sally.

I hope all future children and parents will have as much fun as I did. Many thanks again –

Carol Tarry.
Fal. 26xxxx.

On November 29th we are having a Jumble Sale in the Village Hall. Doors open 2.00 p.m. Guides will be collecting anything you can find during the previous week – jumble, cakes, toys, white elephants etc. We look forward to seeing you there.

Well, the summer was fairly damp for our Camp, but we survived. In Nov. we shall be staying indoors at Cowley for the weekend so the weather will not worry us quite so much. If anyone has any free time and feel that they would like to help at Guides please give myself or Mary Westlake a ring. As long as you are between 18 yrs. and 65 yrs. and enjoy the company of girls 10 yrs.–14 yrs. we shall welcome you with open arms – it doesn't matter whether you were a guide or not!

Rosemary Meek. Fal. 26xxxx.
Mary Westlake. Fal. 26xxxx.

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Many thanks to the brave souls who turned up to the Annual Barbecue on what was the wettest day for a very long time. Despite the weather the Pram Race and the Piano Smashing Competition went ahead and caused quite a bit of hilarity. The final figure is not yet known but should be over the £200 mark. Once again this money will go towards our new extension.

Our next event will be the AUTUMN FAYRE on Saturday OCTOBER 25th, in Charfield Memorial Hall, starting at 2.30 p.m.

Money from all our fund-raising events is going towards our extension to Scout headquarters. The fund is growing albeit more slowly than we had hoped, but hopefully we will be able to start work on clearing the site ready for building very shortly.

The Scout Troop had a very enjoyable two weeks in Cornwall at the end of August, and both Cub Packs recently attended a Camp to celebrate 75 years of Cub Scouts. The Venture Unit spent a weekend at South Cerney, partaking in a variety of water-sports and this month will enter teams in the coveted “Wild Shield” Competition to be held somewhere in the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean. They know the starting and finishing points and the fact that the teams are all required to pass through, with all their equipment, a hole approx. 1 metre dia. Equipment includes 100′ length of stout rope, life jackets and canoe helmets along with a rucksack each. Good luck to them all.

The Scout Troop recently entered a team in the “Post & Press” camping competition, and came away the winners. Well done lads!

We hope you will support the boys in their “Waste Paper” collection which is to start shortly. We collect all old newspapers and magazines and the boys will be coming round to ask you to help as the money we get will go towards their new extension.

Thanks to everyone for their support on the group in the past and hoping for continued support in the future. The results of our 100 Club Draw for August were as follows:-

1st.	£25.	D. Crooks – Cromhall.
2nd.	£15.	R. Webb – Wickwar.
3rd.	£10.	B. Pagett – Wickwar Quarry.
4th.	£6.	B. Kingscote – Charfield.
5th.	£6.	J. Vowles – Kingswood.

and for Sept.

1st.	£25.	J. Simmons – Kingswood.
2nd.	£15.	D. Smith – Charfield.
3rd.	£10.	M. Webb – Charfield.
4th.	£6.	P. Hobbs – Cromhall.
5th.	£6.	W. Smith – Charfield.

Margaret Clark.
Group Secretary.
Fal. 26xxxx.

By now you will all have noticed K.L.B. children around the Village just after 3.00 p.m. due to the introduction of the ‘New School Day’, at the beginning of term. As far as the majority of staff and pupils are concerned it was a ‘non-event’. They felt they had been doing the new hours for years rather than weeks. We all hope it will continue with as much success as it started.

The P.T.A. A.G.M. which by now has usually taken place will not happen until Thursday October 23rd, at 8.00 p.m. in the Drama Hall. We do invite all parents to come along and hear about the new Covenant Scheme about to get off the ground. This will take the place 17 of the ‘500 Club’ so if those of you who contributed to the ‘500 Club’ are wondering why no one has been knocking on your door come along on the 23rd to hear of the new scheme.

Looking forward to Christmas, it won't be long now, we are having a CHRISTMAS CONCERT on FRI. DECEMBER 5th. with the Cam Brass Consort, again in the Drama Hall, at 8.00p.m. Tickets will be available nearer to the date.

Finally many thanks to all who came along and either took part or just watched our Annual Gymkhana at North Nibley. Approx. £400 was raised for P.T.A. funds.

Margaret Clarke.
Chair-lady.
Fal. 26xxxx.

The countryside is there to be walked in. It's the best way to see it and most of us enjoy a country walk – two miles or 20, or anything in between according to taste.

Even with a good map and the skill to read it, the way can be hard to find – and that is probably neither your fault nor the map's. Barbed wire, missing signposts, paths ploughed and planted over, and trespass notices on the open hills; such problems crop up more often than they should.

And while you're walking you can't help noticing how the countryside is changing: hedges ripped out to make prairie style fields, copses hacked down, grim ranks of conifers on the once untamed uplands.

In some places problems like these are enough to interfere seriously with the pleasure of a country walk; other places have, so far, escaped. But everywhere the problems need watching if our children's countryside is not to be dull and difficult to walk in.

Nationally the Rambler's Assoc., is the walker's pressure group. They are in close continuous contact with Ministers, M.Ps. and Civil Servants about all legislation and policy plans affecting the Countryside and access to it.

If you wish to join the Ramblers Assoc., there address is 1/5 Wandsworth Road, London SW8 2XX. They will be pleased to hear from you and give you any information you require.

R.G.

The P.T.A. recently held their Annual General Meeting, when Mr. E. Zapata, xxx Manor Lane, Fal. 26xxxx was elected Chairman for the coming year.

It is hoped to publish a report of activities and future events in the January Newsletter. Meanwhile if parents want any information about the P.T.A. please contact:-

Ed. Zapata.
Falfield 26xxxx.

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Wednesdays 5.45 p.m.–7.00 p.m.

Once again we are back into the swing after the Summer holidays, although we are sad to have to report that Mrs. Dianne Lowe after many years running the pack feels she has to resign her warrant for a while. We shall miss her very much and like to think that she will also miss us.

Obviously as the years go by peoples circumstances change and this we have to accept whether we like it or not. Thank you Dianne, and do hope you will still keep in touch with the Brownies.

Our thanks to P.C. Williams during the summer months, when he came to talk to the girls and then came back to give them a Quiz with questions from the Highway Code. The girls seemed quite worried in case they wouldn't be able to answer questions, but when it came to the day they all did well. After taking the older primary classes through the cycling proficiency test, P.C. Williams was able to present two of our older girls with the cyclist badge. Well done Alex. and Jaqueline. P.C. Williams is hoping to come back again soon after setting them the phonetic alphabet to learn over the summer holidays.

Our thanks also go to Mrs. Pearn for her untold patience and skills over 6 weeks to take them through their Athletic and Gymnastic badges. The girls all worked very hard, and although they didn't all manage to achieve a badge at the end they found they could do things they had never even tried before. Well done everyone.

Well now the colder weather has started all our activities have to be centred once again in the Village Hall. Do hope the girls will continue to find Brownies challenging and also a lot of fun.

If anyone has girls age 6 years upwards, and they think they would like to go on one of the two brownie waiting lists, we shall be only too pleased to put their names down.

Mrs. Green can be contacted for Tuesday Brownies on Dur. 84xxxx, or
Mrs. Smith, for Wednesday Brownies – Fal. 26xxxx.

If anyone feels that [they] could give up 1½ hours each week to help me with Wednesday Brownies, do please let me know –

Mrs. M. Smith.

Luncheon Club numbers are beginning to pick up again and we are always happy to welcome new faces. We have also received several offers of help in the kitchen for which we are very grateful.

Mrs. Nieboer held a Coffee Morning in her home at Cromhall, which was a great success, aided by the warm weather. Many thanks to everyone who contributed to this event.

Our Christmas Dinner this year will be held on Wednesday 3rd December, and we look forward to welcoming all our regulars and friends.

Jan Higgins.
Fal. 26xxxx.

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Firstly, a big thank you to everyone who contributed to Sports Day Tombola. We made a profit of £182.81 which was given back to the Sports Day Committee.

I must apologise for not making the last Newsletter, although a small article was entered on my behalf.

Now we are well and truly out of Summer (were we ever in it?), let me up-date you on future dates.

Oct. 16th OPEN EVENING with Jenner Fashions.

Ladies we still need models size 12 and 14. Many thanks to the ladies who have volunteered.

Nov. 15th ANNUAL TRIP TO LONDON.

Names are now being taken by Molly Taylor 'phone 26xxxx. Total cost £5.00 with £2.00 deposit. We leave the Memorial Hall Car Park at 7.30 a.m. Return trip leaving Horse Guards Parade, London at 11.30 p.m. prompt, with drop-off points around the village. This is open to all on a first come first serve basis.

Nov. 20th Christmas Crackers and Decorations.

Nov. 25th Coffee Morning, starting at 10.00 a.m.

We shall have various Stalls including prize bingo at 11.00 a.m.

Cakes, savouries, tombola prizes, etc., will be requested from members that week – thank you.

Dec. 18th. CHRISTMAS DINNER with DISCO to follow.

This event is restricted to members only (still time to join). The price has yet to be fixed.

Sharon Vale. Chair-lady.
Falfield 26xxxx.

In May 1987, Local Government Elections will be with us again – not the County Council this time, but the more localised tiers which have just as vital a role and these are portrayed by their terms of reference in the Local Government Act, 1972.

Parish Councils or local Councils as they are also described, have been operative since the end of the last century and their value was underlined by the 1972 legislation.

In larger Parish Councils some seats are contested on a Party Political basis, but in the more rural parishes candidates invariably offer themselves as “Independents”, and to date this has happened in Charfield. Have you ever thought of giving some of your time to the community in which you live? If not the Parish Council, there are other communities who would welcome any new input, and the Charfield Newsletter always includes a list of the many organisations in our locality.

Rev. David Parker.
Charfield Parish Councillor, and Chairman of the Northavon Local Councils Assoc.

20

We have just been planning our programme for the coming year 86/87 and I simply have to let you know about it.

In the W.I. we try to cater for as wide a spectrum of interests and outlooks as possible. Some of the demonstrations will include Basket-making, Paper Sculpture, Hanging Baskets, and Cake Decorating. As if that wasn't enough we shall have talks on China, where one of our members recently had an action packed holiday, and Antiques, when you can bring along your “little treasure” and have it looked at by an expert!

Being a W.I. member doesn't just stop at our monthly meetings. Involvement in the W.I. as a County & National Organisation can go as far as you like. There are many Courses from Car Maintenance to Lace Making, Drama to Computing. You can take part in them either at our beautiful College in Oxfordshire, or nearer to home.

Every month there is something going on somewhere and you would be surprised how many friends you can make all over Avon, from Weston-super-Mare to Thornbury.

We are pleased to welcome visitors to every meeting, and if you join now there's our Christmas Party to look forward to, that's not to be missed I promise you.

We meet on the second Thursday in the month in the Village Hall, or give me a ring if you have any questions you would like to ask about the W.I.

Susan B. Green.
President.
'Phone Dur. 84xxxx

It has been brought to my attention that the foot-note on the last W.I. report has offended some members! I feel quite sure this was never intended.

Maybe it was not realised just how much litter is collected daily around the Village by W.I. ladies and husbands. This is not a pleasant task and it is a great pity we can't get more support from all Charfield residents. If it wasn't dropped in the first place there would be no need to pick it up! New bins have been recently provided on the Play-Area, Playing Fields and top of Charfield Hill, in order to overcome this problem.

Do you know that LITTER helped us to lose the Best Kept Village Competition this year?

If anyone has strong feelings about this and wish to comment in the Newsletter I shall be pleased to include it.

Editor.

Life is not a bed of roses
For most of us that's true,
There always seems to be a problem
Whatever we may do.
At times when trials beset us
And never seem to end,
How grand it is to know we have a friend.

F.V.B.

21

Compost as much garden rubbish as possible. Some local Councils will collect bagged garden rubbish with the household waste; some will take it away for a small charge; others permit garden rubbish to be dumped at the Municipal Depot. Check how the Authority can help you. Do NOT use spare plots for dumping garden rubbish – these are privately owned and this action can be subject to prosecution.

If you must light a fire, ensure that only dry material is burnt. This will produce the minimum of smoke. NEVER add household rubbish or rubber tyres to the fire, or use sump oil to set it alight!

Do NOT LIGHT a fire when weather conditions will cause problems. Smoke hangs in the air on damp, windless days, and in the evening around sunset. DON'T BURN when the wind will carry smoke over other people's property, or over roads.

BONFIRES CAN BE DANGEROUS, and should never be left unattended Don't leave a fire to smoulder – douse it with soil or water.

Garden Bonfires – REMEMBER YOUR NEIGHBOURS.

Do you enjoy your garden? Don't stop your neighbours enjoying theirs by lighting a bonfire carelessly. Remember that bonfire smoke can be very irritating and even harmful, particularly to people with chest or heart problems.

By lighting a smoky bonfire, you could be breaking the law. Fires started within 50 ft. of the centre of a road which inconvenience passers-by or damage the highway are an offence under the Highways Act. 1980.

Under the Clean Air Act 1956, it is an offence to cause a nuisance through the creation of smoke. Maximum penalty £500.

(As published by National Soc. for Clean Air)

It is deeply regretted that due to the absence of Mrs. Clothier some residents did not receive a copy of the last Newsletter.

A volunteer to under-take delivery in Charfield Green area would be much appreciated. Now that most people pay 60p at the beginning of the year, this has made the distributors task much easier – no longer necessary to knock and wait! This method also ensures that elderly residents are not brought to their doors in the evenings.

Please let either myself – Rosa Gunning, Fal. 26xxxx.
or Mike Cheskin, Dur. 84xxxx.

Many thanks! R.G.

This Newsletter is published by Charfield Residents Association (CHADRA) – Editor/Typist R. Gunning, xx Manor Lane. Fal. 26xxxx. M. Cheskin in charge of Distribution. Duplicating J. Butler. Circulation. – 600+

22

Mr. S.C. Gunning, Chairman Charfield Parish Council, xx Manor Lane, Charfield. Wotton under Edge. Glos. GL12 8TY.

xxxx Farm, Brinkmarsh Lane, Falfield. Wotton under Edge. Glos. GL12 8PT.

2nd October 1986.

Dear Mr. Gunning,

As you are only too well aware, Falfield & Charfield are threatened by large scale development. Since the two villages share the common objective of preventing massive development taking place, we should like you to know that we give you our full support and have written to the Secretary of State expressing our strong objections to the application. We shall also be represented at your Public Meeting in November and some of us will be attending the Appeal Inquiry in December.

I attended the Winterbourne Public Inquiry recently and noted the importance the Inspector placed on letters of objection and attendance by local people at the Inquiry. A register of attenders together with addresses was meticulously kept. I therefore cannot stress enough the importance of Charfield people writing to the Secretary of State stating their general and specific objections to the application and for them to attend the Public Inquiry in Thornbury. Transport should be provided – private and public if necessary – to get people to and from Thornbury.

Yours in a common cause.

(Signed) E.P. Gadsby.
Chairman
Falfield Action Group.

I am thrilled to be able to report that with your generosity the National Children's Home House to House collection is once again well above last year's total. Well done to you all, especially all the collectors. I am glad the weather was kind to us all this year.

The GRAND TOTAL was £214.81p.

See January Newsletter for amounts individually collected.

Once again many thanks to you all.

Marion Smith. Local Organiser.

URGENT STOP PRESS!

THE PARISH COUNCIL AT A SPECIAL MEETING URGED THAT THE DISTRICT COUNCIL SHOULD REFUSE THE SECOND OUTLINE PLANNING APPLICATION FOR 170 HOUSES BEHIND MANOR LANE/LT. BRISTOL LANE.

Full details will be given at the PUBLIC MEETING on 11th NOV.

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Transcriber Notes

This issue was produced on 24 sides of A4 paper.

Personal phone numbers and addresses have been redacted.

Minor typographical corrections and presentational changes have been made without comment.

Digitization by Brendan O'Connor.

Last update: 2016-12-13.