CHADRA

At last we are ‘seeing the light’ at the top end of Manor Lane!

The Midland Electricity Board have acknowledged an underground problem with the street lighting – so maybe the lights will be coming on one by one.

We are coming to the end of our first year as editors; it has not been so hard really – particularly with the support we have had from all the contributors. Keep it going for 1989!

Although only October, this is the last Newsletter this year, so it only remains for us to wish everyone a very Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.

J.P.
M.H.
Joint Editors.

* * * * * * * * NEXT COPY DATE – 12th JANUARY 1989 * * * * * * *

Joint Editors Jenny Peaster xxx Manor Lane Charfield Tel: Falfield 26xxxx	Distribution Mike Cheskin xx Farm Lees Charfield Tel: Dursley 84xxxx
Mary Hall xx Durham Road Charfield Tel: Falfield 26xxxx	Duplicating John Butler x Thames Close Tel: Falfield 26xxxx

Published by Charfield & District Residents' Association (CHADRA)

2

'ERE WE GO, 'ERE WE GO, 'ERE WE … ?? er, I never can remember the words to that one! Anyway, back to the monologue. The reason for the frivolity is that the party season is here again and 1st Woodend Venturers are going to party until we drop, which might take all that long judging by our last few months activities.

During the summer we have been cycling, hiking, swimming, bar-b-cuing, visiting Westonbirt Arboretum, banking, investing members, eating (the tour of Charfield was a great success), more 26Km hiking, listening to a talk on alcoholism, and any other activity that has ‘ing’ as its suffix that you can think of – yep! even that one.

Anyway, back to the party (where? why wasn't I invited?) – sorry, I'm getting carried away again (probably by men in white coats if I don't stop adding bits). On 17th December we will have our annual Christmas Dinner Party. Next Friday, we are having our 60's Party, but as it's on 28th October it will have already happened by the time you read this, so we will have had our 60's Party. I am going to stop before I run out of tenses!

Have a great Christmas.

Moz (Mark Morris)
P.R.O.
Venture Scout Unit.

3

What a problem the street lights are at the moment. For all those residents who have contacted me or a Councillor and others who have been thinking about 'phoning with a complaint – action has been taken. There are problems both with manpower and apparently a technical problems with the lights in the Manor Lane area. However it is hoped that the various problems will be resolved before too long.

Last year the Parish Council organised the planting of daffodil bulbs in the village and more will be planted in other areas around the village for next spring. However this is still only a small improvement to the environment and the Parks and Open Spaces Dept is still quite willing to consider other landscape schemes to improve the visual amenities throughout the year – not just at spring time. Therefore the Parish Council is seeking ideas for easily maintained and not too costly projects which could be put forward for consideration. Please let me or any Councillor have your suggestions.

On a similar subject it is hoped to provide a Village Christmas Tree this year and discussions are at present in hand regarding siting it in the Church garden.

Together with Councillor Cliff Gunning, I recently met the County Area Surveyor to discuss problems relating to the Central Play Area of the Old Manor Estate. The Parish Council is concerned both about small children riding on bikes, skate boards, etc. from the access pathways directly onto the road in both Manor Lane and Underhill Road. They are also concerned about older children and adults riding cycles on these paths and causing a hazard to pedestrians. Various types of barriers have been suggested and these will be erected over the next few months. The effectiveness of the barriers will then be assessed and if successful the scheme will be extended.

Dog Byelaws are to be the subject of considerable discussion over the next few months. The District Council is assisting in the project in order to help the smaller Parishes in what is a very complicated subject. There is a Byelaw covering Charfield which is in force at the present time but to my knowledge it has never been enforced. The Parish Council is enquiring if this old Byelaw will remain in force if other similar ones are revoked and whether or not it is possible to increase the existing £20 fine to a more realistic sum.

Jenny Hughes
Clerk to the Council

Please contact Jan on Falfield 26xxxx with all your dates for 1989 – the next issue of the Newsletter is due in mid January.

4

Forthcoming Events

“Down to Earth”

“He is such a good man, but I do wish that he would come down to Earth occasionally”. The speaker was not the wife of one of those overworked pilots at Gatwick or Heathrow, nor was she the spouse of an astronaut, but simply a lady emerging from church (not in Charfield!) after listening to a sermon from her much respected by sadly “out of touch” minister. We all know the feeling, when the preacher waxes eloquent about high ideals and noble aspirations, but doesn't seem able to cope with some of the basic problems of ordinary everyday life. “His head” to quote an ancient expression, “seems to be so brimful of Heaven as to be no earthly good!”

But bridging the immeasurable gap between Heaven and Earth, and so making religion relevant to the man in the street is never easy. In the early days of this century there lived, we are told, a young man named Harold St John, who went every Sunday to preach in a common lodging house in one of the poorer parts of London. He always wore his ‘Sunday Best’ frock coat and top hat, and no-one in the lodging house listened to him! So Harold changed his tactics. He put on his oldest clothes, and with a few pence in his pocket set out for the lodging house once more. Night after night he spent alongside the inmates, patiently listening to their needs and woes. Then finally he began to speak to them of spiritual matters, and they listened. It was only when ‘he sat where they sat’ to quote the prophet Ezekiel, that he was able to get his message across.

It was said of Jesus that “He knew what was in man”, and that “the common people heard Him gladly”, and the reason for this was surely that He identified Himself so completely with us all in the miracle of the Incarnation. He could have chosen to come to Earth as a royal prince, but came instead as a pauper's baby – born in a stable and cradled in a manger. So the apostle Paul speaks of Him as “One being equal with God, and yet making Himself of no reputation, and how being found in fashion as a man, He humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross”. Philippians 2 verse 8. So for all time the gaping chasm of man's estrangement from God was finally bridged, and the way of salvation made known.

The writer of the famous Christmas Carol “Once in Royal David's City” put it this way:-

“He came down to Earth from Heaven
Who is God and Lord of all,
And His shelter was a stable
And His cradle was a Stall,
With the poor and mean and lowly
Lived on Earth our Saviour holy.”

For this fact we shall again be giving thanks this coming Christmastide. Please join with us. You are always assured of a warm welcome.

Footnote: Our most grateful thanks to all who contributed to our recent “GIFT DAY” which realized the total sum of £102.40.

E.L.

5

She was sitting on a seat on Wandsworth Common, London. She was elderly. We were thrown together by an incident. Some young lads arrived, instantly disturbing the peace with an outsize transistor carried on the shoulder and working to full capacity. Even at a distance one could hear clearly. “Seven days a week, twenty-four hours a days,” it blared obscenely loudly of a local radio station. It seemed proud rather than ashamed of the constant diet of din that it, all too clearly, afforded.

I moved away from the sound-source, attempting to capture a quieter area and in so doing I passed the seat where she was sitting alone. We spoke and agreed that such ugly intrusions should be banned from public places, designed as they are as a semi-rural retreat from noisy traffic. Fortunately the two lads quickly tired of the boring rural peace and caught a bus, taking their noise with them.

Constance, for that was her names spoke of life; of living in a flat alone, and, to escape from that, of seeking the peace and greenery of the spot where she was now sitting. As she told me of her life, I was saddened for her and with her. She had worked as a nurse all her life. She had married during the last war and her husband, discharged from the army with bad health towards the end of the war, was brought as a patient to the very hospital in which she was working. She contrived to see his medical papers and discovered that he was suffering, in his twenties, from leukaemia – a word that had more of a death knell about it than today. He died in 1946 – forty-two years ago: what a long time to be a widow.

She told me she had had religious faith, but now she found it very difficult to believe. Once she went to Church but now she didn't go. She didn't quite know why. (She didn't know my occupation when she was saying all this). It was a sad story and as she went with difficulty (for she was arthritic) to catch her bus, I said I would think of her sometimes – which I do; which I am doing now!

It was not an entirely one-sided conversation: I slipped in bits here and there. And, oh, before we parted she did ask me what I did. Presuming she meant as an occupation, I told her, ending my disguise as an ordinary human being!

She was genuinely puzzled about her faith-losing and Church-avoiding bit. I told her what I believe is true about this. Faith is found and sustained in the Family of Faith. The “Family of Faith” is the Church – the group of people that comprise this family. This shouldn't really surprise anyone. To sustain and to discover more fully any interest or hobby effectively one needs the encouragement and insight of like-minded people. Of course, it is not quite the same. We can't all be interested in making cuddly toys or rock-climbing (no disrespect is intended by these references!). But we all have an interest in life: we are all trying to live it. Christianity is the concern of those who want to know what life is really about: not just the next life (a mistake often made) but THIS life. Nothing is more important than to collect as many clues as we can about this.

REMEMBRANCE Sunday is the 13th November: 10.55 at War Memorial and a short service in Church. CHRISTINGLE service on the 4th December for young people and ALL the family at 10.15 a.m. (in morning this time instead of afternoon). Our special Church CAROL service: Sunday 18th December at 3 p.m. SATURDAY 24th December at 11.30 p.m. MIDNIGHT MASS of Christmas. CHRISTMAS day 10 a.m. Eucharist – a brief service suitable for children and all the family.

K.G.G.

6

Our Playgroup A.G.M. was held on the 12th September in the Chapel Schoolroom and a new Committee was elected. Their names are as follows:-

Andy Reynolds	– Chairman
Sue Blay	– Secretary
Denise Mitchell	– Treasurer
Cathie Phipps Geraldine Davis Judy Reeves Pat Loveridge Paul Lewis

Thank you to all of those who supported our “Hook a Duck” and “Treasure Hunt” stalls at the Sports and Gala Day. If no one else enjoyed the weather – the ducks did!!

An even bigger thank you to the children (and parents) who took part in our sponsored search. We managed to raise a grand total of £381.60 which will go towards some much needed Playgroup equipment. Our next fund raising event will be our Autumn Bazaar which will be held in the Chapel Schoolrooms on November 16th at 1.30 p.m. We hope to see lots of you there.

Also in the coming months we will be carol singing around Charfield in December, and holding a Jumble sale in the Memorial Hall in January.

If anyone has a child who will be 3 in the coming year and wishes them to come to Playgroup, would you please notify me so that I can place their name on our waiting list. Thank you.

Sue Blay (Secretary)
x Thames Close
Falfield 26xxxx

On Saturday, September 3rd three of us from St. John's Church went on a 25 mile sponsored cycle ride. It was a lovely afternoon and we travelled a route which took us through Rockhampton, Thornbury, Tyherington, Rangeworthy, the edge of Wickwar and back to Charfield, visiting several of the Churches in the Deanery on the way.

A total of £210 was raised and will be equally divided between the Great Ormond St. Children's Hospital and St. John's Church Repair Fund.

Our thanks to all who sponsored us, also to P.C. Williams for his friendly help and advice.

John Butler
Falfield 26xxxx

7

To begin with, we still extend a welcome to our village senior citizens to join our Club which meets fortnightly on Wednesdays in the Memorial Hall.

We were not very fortunate – weather wise that is – when we visited Dawlish and Teignmouth, the summer this year being on the damp side! The sun did not shine on us very much when we chose to visit the street market at Moreton-in-the-Marsh. The stalls were numerous and varied and our members were happy shopping for bargains despite the rain and the drippings from the awnings over the stalls, but then the sun shone as we were on our way to Bourton-on-the-Water for an afternoon snack and a cup of tea.

We shall be holding a Christmas Draw on November 23rd, hoping to supplement our funds as we did last year. We hope to see some new members and on behalf of the Committee we wish everyone a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.

Ernest H. Orton
Chairman.

We're open for business! Starting on November 1st Thornbury and District Volunteer Link will be open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10.30 to 3.00 in the Methodist Hall Complex in Thornbury High Street (entrance from Castle Court side). Callers and telephone enquiries will be very welcome. (As we go to press the phone is being installed and the number not yet known).

The aims of the Link are to co-ordinate the great amount of voluntary work being done in the district at present, to help volunteers find the ‘job’ they would like to do, and to support people with various disabilities and the people who care for them. Already there has been much support for the project from many local organisations and individuals who attended the public meeting to launch the scheme on September 22nd. We hope to make contact with many more – schools, youth groups, etc.

We are extremely grateful to Thornbury Methodist Church for offering us premises in their new Hall Complex, and to the Armstrong Trust whose grant will cover the telephone. Other organisations and bodies are being approached for funds, but meanwhile we would be very glad to hear from anyone who could offer basic office furniture, office stationery or photocopying facilities at a reduced cost.

Most of all, however, we look forward to meeting all who think the Volunteer Link might be able to help them. Please drop in to see us – you will all be very welcome.

Clare Fardell
(One of the voluntary co-ordinators).

Tel: Thornbury 41xxxx

8

Hello Everyone!
Hasn't the time gone quickly. Well apologies all round but I've got to tell you all about him – yes you know, the great M. J. – yes, I too screamed for 2½ hours at Michael Jackson.

It all started last Christmas. Gary my brother-in-law acquired two tickets. He got them from a landlord in Hampton Court so if they had been forgeries we could have had him beheaded! The landlord, not Gary. “oh! I'd love to go” I said – so I waited the following week for the phone call. Well the following Wednesday night I'd just put Sophie and Lawrence to bed when it rang. Gary said – “Guess what I'm holding?”

Well I'd hoped it was my ticket. Anyway he confirmed it was – I started screaming round the lounge – Lawrence shouted down “Was I Poorly?” and I haven't been the same since.

When I started telling people I was going, about January time they were all a bit non-plussed, but by the time M.J. had started off in Rome and with all the media and hysteria rising I'd like to think they wished they were going too.

Well, the day arrived. I went on Saturday July 16th, with Charles and Di you know.

We, the three of us (Keith didn't want to go – thought I was nuts) arrived at Wembley about 12.30 lunchtime. Even then the atmosphere was great. People eating, laughing, boozing, chatting up the police and trying to get nearer the gates, which were supposed to open at 4 O'clock. Well at 3.20 we all piled into the stadium. It was just like one big party. Singing and dancing and screaming every time his face appeared on the video screens.

Kim Wilde came on stage about 7-ish and sang from her new album and some of her old hits and then Gary Davies from Radio One came on stage to say that Michael Jackson was just meeting the Prince and Princess of Wales and giving them a cheque for £250,000.

We were situated just along from the Royal Box so we all stood on our seats (plastic and bouncy) craning to try and see them be seated, well we then all spent the entire evening on our seats – how they took the weight of that jumping up and down I don't know.

Then, suddenly it all started – what seemed like a million lights rose up from the front of the stage (all space-like) and slowly lowered again and there in the midst of smokey haze was the man himself. Well the whole place went wild. Do you know, just writing this all down I can feel the same buzz I felt at the show. It was more than just a concert, it was a spectacle. I know some don't like his music and think he's crazy but you can't take away the fact he's a showman and a half. I've seen quite a bit of his video stuff and there was nothing that he couldn't repeat “live” from them. His movement and energy was incredible.

He cuddled a young girl, picked from the audience – well she must be gobsmacked still, and later he was literally hanging from a crane which was lowered over the front of the stage to the audience – how they never grabbed him off it I don't know.

9The music, the lights, the energy all added up to a night of sheer brilliance – well when it was over I just sat there bawling – yes I'm good at that as well as screaming.

While he made his escape the roof space of the arena was a mass of fireworks.

I shall never forget it. I spent the rest of the night saying “Ooh Gary – Thanks for getting my ticket” – Sob, Sob!

Well now my little Lawrence has started at school and so I have commenced something called the Elton Johns. Yes I'm having a good clear out, only my junk's not going to Sotheby's – just into 20 dustbin bags.

It was my sister's 30th Birthday in September so Gary and I decided to arrange a surprise party for her in her house. It was a little tricky but I do love telling fibs when you know it is for a good cause. They've just had a month in the States so my sister didn't think she'd celebrate at all. Well Gary sent off loads of invites and everyone replied to me. Mum and I arranged all the food and then planned to get Elaine out of her house. Mum, Dad and Gary said they'd take her out for the day then on for a meal in the evening (so she took something nice to change into at Mum's – you have to think of everything you know) then at the last minute Gary pretended he had to work, actually he went back home to go mad with the vac and clean the loo!!

So at 10.30 am he phoned to say that Elaine was on her way up the Thames on a boat – you cant get someone more out of the way than that. So I set up the M4 armed with Hubby, Children, loads of eats and drinks. I secretly popped into my Mum's to collect some more ‘hidden’ food only to bump into her neighbour on the way out. “Oh I'm not really here, you haven't seen me,” I cried, he always thought I was a bit different. I could just see him saying to Mum – Oh Marilyn popped in.

So there I was with a gorgeous home-made cheesecake on the front seat, beautifully decorated with kiwi-fruit, fresh strawberries and cream blobs, well I pulled up at the traffic lights and it slid gently to the floor (I do not only scream at Michael Jackson). “Oh, calm down, Mum,” said Sophie, so she held it all the way to Morden saying things like “I do hope those strawberries haven't landed in any fluff!”

So we arrived, laid everything out, guests started arriving, and Auntie Edie was on the look-out. I was in the kitchen warming up a few lasagnes and the garlic bread when Keith said turn the oven off, she'll see the light on. ‘Oh don't be so stupid,’ I said, all harassed by that point. Gary pretended he had to pop home for something and sent my sister in. We suddenly heard a voice say – ‘Someone's got my oven on’. ‘Told you so’ said Keith, ‘Know-all’, said I. Anyway my sister popped her head over the back fence to see 50 people in her garden – it was great!

Well, I'd better go now, but I wish to add just one thing – If anyone would like to take over the running of the circle please step forward. I haven't been doing a proper job with it lately. I think if you go a bit off the boil then its time to move over!!

Bye for now,

Marilyn
Tel: Falfield 26xxxx

10

The Holiday Playscheme held by the Parish Council during the first week of August was attended by 173 children who Participated in a variety of games.

We also had visits from the Fire Brigade, demonstrating how the equipment is operated, and a Magician who undertook several tricks of the hand producing animals made from balloons and a live rabbit from a hat.

On the Thursday, a local vet called from the veterinary hospital to give a discussion on how to care for pets.

The week ended with a coach trip to Bowood Adventure Playground. With fair weather, well behaved children and no mishaps the day was enjoyed by Mums and Dads, not to mention the children.

Special thanks are given to the following people who dedicated most of their time during the week in making the playscheme a success.

Mrs. Doreen Milvain, Mrs. Mary Westlake, Mrs. Margaret Shipton, Mrs. Rene Williams, Mrs. Violet MacLellan.
Rebecca Dickinson, Annie Westlake, Joanne Burfield, Lyn Wakley, Maxine Powell, Peter Devall, Samantha Colla, Suzanne Smith, Angela Smith, Debra Wills, Clare Wills, Andrew Beavis, Sara Lewis, Sara Fellows, Shana Waller, Joanne Loveridge.

We would also like to thank any parents who gave up their time to supervise the children during the daily sessions.

Marilyn Burden
Anna Hart

LOOK!! For 20p per week you could enter the Village Hall “200” Club and win a prize. In the year there is one prize of £250, one of £100, 11 of £20 and 39 of £10. IT MUST BE WORTH A TRY. If you would like to become a member (there are a few spare places) ring John Scoble on Falfield 26xxxx – don't delay, ring today.

For the present members, it was with regret that the Village Hall Committee received Mrs. Lyn Stares resignation as the 200 Club Organiser. Members expressed their appreciation to her for the hard work she had put in over the past years.

As a result, the lottery had a holiday, but is now back refreshed and as you can see ready and raring to go!

Please support you village hall be becoming a member. Telephone John today on Falfield 26xxxx.

11

Guides went back on September 7th.

All the girls who went to summer camp at Westonbirt, enjoyed it. Eight girls passed their Swimmers Badge and two took Craft and passed.

I must point out that I made a mistake in the last Newsletter! If your daughter is 10 and not 10½, then she can join.

At last I can say that 3 girls from this unit have been awarded their Baden Powell Badges. This is a first for this unit so on 5th October Mrs. J. Grant, who is District Commissioner, came down to present the awards. This is the first Baden Powell ceremony Mrs. Grant has done. In turn, the girls came up to receive their award and renewed their promise.

Ann Rayfield, Renata Cain and Carolyn Moore all made a speech of thanks to everyone who had helped them. The girls invited along some of the testers who had helped them. Mrs. A. Marks was unfortunately unable to come down from Gloucester to see the girls. Mrs. Marks was the girls last tester. This test took about 4 months.

Mrs. R. Watkins made a special cake in the shape of the Baden Powell Badge, for which we thank her.

The ceremony started with the girls forming a horseshoe and two Colour Parties followed. Samantha Colla carried the Union Jack with Julie Spindler and Laura Griffiths as escort; Suzanne Smith carried the Unit Flag with Helen Edwards and Sarah Lewis as escorts. Julie Peaster and Sarah Fellows both did readings, and Lucy Waite said a prayer. After a song the three girls cut their cake.

Ann is to become a young leader and we hope she will return to us next year. Renata is off to Ventures, and Carolyn and Suzanne are to join Rangers. The girls will be missed in this unit. We hope they will drop in to see us and let us know how they are doing in their new ventures.

Mrs. Meek and myself wish them well.

Mary Westlake
Assistant Guider.

Since our last item in the Newsletter, our Brownies have had a well earned rest, and have now returned fresh and willing to continue our theme of Safety. Following their success with Crime Prevention Badge and Road Safety Badge, they are now working hard towards their Safety in the Home Badge.

Over the coming weeks a fancy Dress Party is planned and a Bring & Buy and Toy Sale. We hope you will come along and support our Sale, which will be in aid of charity. Look out for our posters giving details nearer the time.

If your daughter would like to join our pack, please contact either Mrs. Smith (Fal: 26xxxx) or Mrs. MacLellan (Fal: 26xxxx) to have her name added to our waiting list.

12

For many today, the events of World War I are unclear. When the holocaust was over, the general opinion was that it had been a war to end all wars, but the lack of foresight of the peace-makers, combined with the lack of authority of the League of Nations laid the foundation for the expansionist plans of the Japanese and the escalating stances of Hitler and Mussolini.

What then was this holocaust?

In Europe in particular, nations had been jockeying for power until in 1914 the assassination of the Archduke provoked hostilities which spread like wildfire. England strove to confine the war to the Balkans, but German violation on Belgian neutrality brought England into the war on August 4th, 1914.

On the whole there were few naval battles. A minor German success off Chile in 1914 was quickly avenged in a battle off the Falkland Islands and in May 1916, a major fleet action took place at the Battle of Jutland. This was followed by a German U-Boat offensive against Allied and neutral shipping and the Royal Navy was deployed to meet this challenge.

Although in World War I the civilian population was spared the mass bombing raids of World War II, some parts of the country did have Zeppelin raids. One source of suffering of the civilian population was food shortage as a result of shipping losses. A formal rationing system was introduced in 1916. A very important source of anxiety was to be a recipient of yet another War Office telegram regarding the loss of a loved one – maybe killed in action, perhaps missing and presumed killed. Other telegrams proliferated over the heavy toll of wounded – some limbless, some sightless and many shell shocked from the incessant enemy barrage exacerbating the dreadful inhuman life in muddy, often rat-ridden, trenches.

Our soldiers fought bravely, and well, in the stalemate of this trench warfare, yet the High Command sited comfortably well away from the front would order frequent local attacks as intelligence forays to assess the enemy's strength. Conscription introduced in England was to ensure that there were always replacements to cover the daily casualty list!

In 1915 an attempt was made to distract attention from the Western Front by making a landing on the Gallipoli peninsula in the Dardenelles. There was not the inter-service co-operation such as was evolved in World War II, and the Gallipoli campaign proved to be a disaster.

Thus the fruitless attacks, and counter-attacks on the Western Front continued. For instance, in one Allied offensive along the Somme in 1916, a mere 7 miles was won at a cost of 420,000 casualties, an echo of the earlier heavy campaign losses at Ypres and Loos.

The Allied manpower was strengthened when the United States entered the War in 1917, but this additional manpower resulted in the German High Command withdrawal to prepared positions, to make the Allied offensive more difficult.

This was proved to be just so when, in 1917, the Passchendale offensive cost a further 300,000 British lives, in addition to any other nationality!

By the Autumn of 1918, the German civilian population was on the verge of starvation, and the German Army was on the point of defeat. The Armistice could not come soon enough for friend and foe alike and by the time it was signed to take effect at 11.00 a.m. on November 11th, 1918, – million men end women born in Britain had been killed and about twice as many, seriously wounded. To this can be added the high casualty rate of both the Allies and the enemy!

13What a terrible slaughter! So many homes were affected, so many communities mourned and expressed the desire that it must never happen again. Local War Memorials recorded for posterity the names of those who never came back.

For many years in the 1920's–1930's era, the hour of 11.00 a.m. on the eleventh day of the eleventh month became enshrined as a focal point of remembrance. I have my own memory of factory hooters sounding out and everyone and every vehicle stood quietly – in the street, in the place of work or in the home, for 2 minutes, until the factory hooters emitted the ‘carry on’ note.

The poppy was introduced in commemoration of the poppies which flourished in the fields of Flanders, and it continues as an emblem of Remembrance today, not only as a reminder of that Armistice Day, 70 years ago this year, but of the later conflicts that World War I failed to offset.

In September 1940 Britain was facing a crisis which could have ‘turned the tables’ from 1918. Our Army had escaped from Dunkirk by a miracle but, even so, our home defences remained weak and prior to my joining the Royal Navy in December 1940, I spent many a night on Red Cross duty at A.R.P. and Home Guard posts (known these days as the Local Defence Volunteers). Winston Churchill broadcast one of his famous war-time speeches, rallying the nation to his side – but Hitler hesitated, no doubt due to the brilliant achievement of the R.A.F. fighter pilots. There, losses too mounted up, and many of my school contemporaries were among those who died in combat.

For many then, Remembrance Sunday can continue to provoke thoughts of gratitude to ‘those who grow not old, as we that are left grow old’. Korea, Malaya, the Falklands and Northern Ireland in addition to many other minor campaigns, each give added impetus to our need to not forget.

Now the enemy seems to be more insidious when one considers the problem of terrorism today. Wars were fought to re-establish peace and democracy – so surely all those who fell in combat did not die in vain? Even places of worship now have to be carefully checked for potential bombs when a particular occasion is invoked and I had recent witness of this when, on duty as Chaplain to the Gloucester Royal Naval Association, I observed Gloucester Cathedral thoroughly searched by police and sniffer dogs before the H.M.S. ‘Gloucester’ Civic Service.

Remembrance? We must keep faith with those who have gone before us, and keep faith too that one day the Peace for which they died, will really endure.

Rev. David W. Parker
xx Durham Road.

14

Have you ever thought about activities that could go on in the village hall during the daytime?

We have been trying to find as many different ideas as possible to entertain villagers who are around during the day. This would also help towards our short fall on hiring rates. Among the suggestions so far have been ‘short mat bowling’, ‘knock-about badminton’, talks and discussions etc. If anyone is interested in any of these ideas please contact me. A suggestion has also been made that we start an over 45's Club, which could be involved with some or all of the activities above, plus as many others that can be thought up.

If you are at a loss for daytime activities, or just want to socialise with your friends, please come along to a get together to discuss this idea and any others at the Hall on Tuesday, 1st November at 2.00 p.m. Everyone is welcome, and any activity possible, so please come along. We are looking for both men and women and I am sure that the age range will be flexible.

We are holding a Christmas Dance for over 21's this year and a Grand Christmas Draw which will be drawn on the evening of the dance. This is to take place on Friday, December 23rd. I hope lots of people from the village will be able to attend and help us in our efforts to raise funds.

Forthcoming Events

Please ring me on Falfield 26xxxx if you have any enquiries or ideas.

Jane Hall
Chairperson.

The Under 12's, unable to field a settled side, have made a poor start to their League programme, losing all 3 games. However, things look better in the Cup where in the Tetbury Recreation Cup Round 2 match against Leonard Stanley, Charfield recorded a fine 3–1 win and with a tough County Cup match against Randwick coming up, this is just the sort or confidence booster they wanted. Manager Brian Lovegrove reckons that once he can get a settled side things should improve.

After winning the League last season with a 100% playing record, this years Under 14's are finding the going very tough. Although they started the season with a hard fought 1–0 victory over Thornbury Kestrels since then they have failed to find any consistency in their play. Under new manager and former Charfield Junior player, Robin Burner, the Under 14's have struggled to replace the players who have graduated to the Under 16's, although last Sunday against local rivals North Nibley, they showed their ‘true grit’ to battle back from 2–0 down to win 3–2. If they can show this sort of form for the rest of the season they should finish in a comfortable mid-table position.

The Under 16's, after a couple of poor seasons, have made one of their best starts, winning their opening league games 5–1 away to Pucklechurch 15and 2–1 at home to Streamside. However, in the Cup things have been much tougher and in their recent K.B. Coaches Rd 2 match with Purton of Swindon they found themselves 1–0 down after only 2 minutes and although they battled hard they were unable to break down a very strong, although sometimes over-physical, Purton side, thereby losing their chance of Cup glory. However, the Under 16's have a very strong squad of players and this is necessary if they want any chance of success this season.

Anyone who is interested in playing for the Club should contact me or any of the Team Managers.

Claire Bullock
Hon. Secretary.

Falfield 26xxxx

Since writing in the last Newsletter, the Youth Club is still in the same boat. Mrs. Moira Waite has had to give up as a leader due to other commitments and although we welcome Mrs. Kerry Cordy in her place, we are still short of one leader and helpers.

The A.G.M. will be at 8.15 p.m., on Tuesday 8th November, in the Village Hall.

We are struggling to keep the Club open, to give the young people in the village somewhere to go at least for one night of the week. An average of 35 attend the Tuesday night sessions, and Mrs. Cordy cannot run the Club on her own, nor is it fair or practical to ask her to do so. Mr. Motaluk, who kindly stepped in last year to keep the Club going, is due to leave this December, so please, come along to the A.G.M. as any support – no matter how small – is vital if we are to continue.

P. Peaster
Chairman.

Footnote

Now that the clocks have been changed back to Winter Time, please keep your eyes open for children returning to their homes late from school or play, paper boys delivering the daily news to your homes and other pedestrians who may be walking along dark or un-lit roads.

And Don't Forget – WEAR SOMETHING LIGHT AT NIGHT!!

16

A dangerous invasion of privacy or a convenient way of shopping?

Whatever your opinion, doorstep selling is here to stay and it's important to know your rights when faced with the sales rep on your doorstep, on the 'phone or at a sales party in your neighbour's home.

Salespeople in a shop clearly work there, but who is the stranger at the door collecting for charity or selling double glazing over the 'phone? If you have any doubts ask to see an identity card. If you're still worried, check with the police or the Trading Standards Office.

High pressure sales techniques are another problem associated with door step sales. People buy on the spur of the moment, then regret it, often realising that they can't afford it. Can they cancel? New laws now mean that purchases of goods and services that cost more than £35 can usually be cancelled within a short cooling-off period. The law applies to purchases made away from the trader's premises and where the trader has visited without any specific prior arrangement. Even if you were expecting the trader you may still be covered if the actual goods purchased were not ones that you originally knew the trader supplied.

The new rights do not cover mail order purchases, insurance or investment agreements. However, separate rights mean that you are covered by a cooling-off period if you pay for goods or services by credit or buy life insurance at home. Traders may also include a ‘right to cancel’ clause in their agreements or belong to trade associations which have a code of practice covering cancellations.

If you want to cancel, the important thing is to act quickly, even if you're unsure of where you may stand legally. Write to the trader, keeping a copy of your letter, saying why you want to cancel and mentioning high pressure sales if that was the problem. Then seek advice from the Citizens Advice Bureau.

If you are unhappy with the goods or services you have bought ‘on the doorstep’, your rights are the same as if you had gone into a shop. Any services you buy should be of a reasonable standard, carried out within a reasonable time and at a reasonable price. Goods should do what they are supposed to do, be as described and fit for sale. Of course, these terms are open to interpretation. If the trader won't recognise your complaint, contact your CAB for advice.

You will find us in the Council Offices, The Chipping, Wotton-u-Edge, every Tuesday morning between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. At other times in Stroud High Street – Tel: Stroud xxxx.

Barbara Adams.

Following my plea for help in the July Newsletter, one lady (with toddler) has come to the rescue. However, the problems persist as, with the children back at school, Mums are taking on new commitments and have less time co spare for driving. As a result I am still in need of volunteers. If anyone with use of a car has time to spare to help with this valuable service please contact me on Falfield 26xxxx.

Muriel Blower (Co-ordinator)
xx Manor Lane.

17

Hello – yes, I'm now wearing another hat as “Her-in-charge” of the PTA committee – I do wish those sexist people would think up a better name than Chairperson.

We, the committee have arranged several “do's” – so please come along even if you do not have children at the school you are most welcome to attend many of the functions.

On Thursday 17th November our Cake and Handicraft Sale will be held at the school at 2.30 pm.

On Saturday 19th November we are holding a Cheese, Wine and Quiz night to be held at school, price £2.50.

Then, on Saturday 11th February 1989 – Mr Richard Lewis of the Rangeworthy Court Players has been booked at the Village Hall – more about this later.

The successful Fun Run organised by Mr Steve Bennett will be held in the Spring, some time, so get your shorts pressed and legs prepared.

I would like to add that although the committee raises funds for School ‘extras’, social evenings are not held solely to make a profit, but for a chance for parents and friends to have a night out, locally, and just relax and enjoy yourselves.

If you wish to know anything further regarding these events, please phone me on Falfield 26xxxx.

Best wishes for now and dare I say – have a good Christmas Season.

Marilyn Smith

We are holding a HALLOWE'EN DISCO at the Village Hall on

SATURDAY 29th OCTOBER from 8.00 pm until 1.00 pm

Tickets at £2 are available from Miriam Ealey x Berkeley Close Telephone Falfield 26xxxx

Licensed Bar available – We look forward to seeing you all.

18

Please Note, If any of the above information is incorrect or requires an amendment please contact the Editors

Telephone Numbers commencing 84… use code 0453, Numbers commencing 26… use code 0454.

Transcriber Notes

This issue was produced on 18 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: 2017-01-13.