CHADRA

It does look as though our train logo will become even more significant to Charfield Residents if the plan goes ahead for Charfield Station to be re-opened; and then Charfield will really be on the map! There is more about the subject of the station inside this issue. It will be great fun to have the choice of transport and be able to travel to the cities via train.

We would like to welcome our new arrival – our treasurer, Mrs Julia O'Connor-Beach. Our Treasurer fulfils a very important role, without whom we wouldn't know whether all this was worthwhile.

Before the next issue arrives on your doorsteps the Christmas season will come and go, so we both wish you all a very happy time. Don't forget if there is anything you would like published in the Newsletter just contact us, we are always looking for new ideas.

M.H.
J.P.

NEXT COPY DATE – 12TH JANUARY 1992

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

Published by Charfield & District Residents' Association (CHADRA)

2

Advertising

INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING YOUR BUSINESS?

Contact the Editors before next copy date (12th January 1992)

[Advert for Manor Hair Fashions]

[Advert for Treetops Carpets]

[Advert for Manor Fruiterers]

[Advert for Travel Plan Taxis]

3

Hello Mums and Dads,

After the recent A.G.M. a new committee has been elected as follows:-

Thank you to all who attended the A.G.M. and many thanks to last year's committee for their hard work. Special thanks to Sally, Cherry, Liz and Roz who all do such a marvellous job looking after our children.

Attention to all Mums and Dads in the village. The PHOTOGRAPHER is coming to Playgroup on 12th NOVEMBER at 2.30 p.m. This photo session is open to all babies and children in the village, even if they do not attend Playgroup. Don't forget with Christmas on the horizon a photograph is an ideal present for all those doting grans, grandads and other relations.

Talking of Christmas, our annual bazaar will be held on Wednesday, 27th November at the Playgroup, so please come and support us. I am sure you will not be disappointed. This will be from 1.30 p.m.

Our ever popular Carol Singing night will be held on December 19th starting from the Village Hall at the usual time of 6.00 p.m.

The end of term party held in the summer was a great success and enjoyed by all who attended. Thank you to all who helped make the day a success.

If your child is three or will be three shortly or if you are new to the village and would like to join our Playgroup please let me know as soon as possible on Fal. 26xxxx.

Alison Pidoux
Secretary.

Calling all boys aged 12 to 15 years to come and play for your village football team. Interested?
Contact B. Lovegrove
Fal. 26xxxx.

Charfield Junior Football Club Jumble Sale – 23rd NOVEMBER 2.00 p.m. – Village Hall.

Collection from houses Thurs and Fri 21st/22nd November.

4

One of the biggest headline subjects affecting the village at the moment is the possibility of the railway station being re-opened. Press coverage has certainly exaggerated the situation as it is only the agreement to commit money to the project which is at present being dealt with by both Glos and Avon County Councils. Various Committees need to agree the project before detailed plans can be drawn up.

A public meeting will be called in the very near future in order that the residents of Charfield can put questions to both the County Councillor and County Council Officers dealing with the project. At this meeting the views of the residents of Charfield on the idea in principle can be aired. Because specific plans have yet to be drawn up these views will be most useful and it is at this stage when specific concerns can be included in any final development.

Please watch notice boards for time, date and place of the meeting.

The Parish Council is still receiving complaints and concerns about the use of footpaths by cyclists, particularly the paths around the central play area. It is apparent that younger children who attend cycling proficiency courses, ignore completely the principles they have learnt when cycling along these paths. Together with older children, youths and adults regularly put pedestrians, particularly elderly pedestrians, at risk by using these paths as short cuts and race tracks.

One of the most disturbing reports is that children are ducking under the safety barriers by leaning over the handlebars and riding straight out onto the road with little or no control over the bike. The Parish Council has asked for those barriers on paths exiting onto Underhill Road and Manor Lane to be improved before a child rides into the path of a car.

Traffic Speed and Highway Safety for Pedestrians has been a subject of considerable concern for some time, particularly along the length of Wotton Road and in Manor Lane where visibility is obstructed by parked cars and exacerbated by the long bend in the road. A site meeting has been arranged with County Highway Officers in order to view the problems and to discuss various traffic calming suggestions which have been put forward.

Despite a press report to the contrary following the Annual Parish Meeting, County Highways Dept. have confirmed that there are no definite plans to improve the junction at the top of Charfield Hill. A project to provide lighting has been on their list for some years but no definite plans to carry out the work are in mind.

The Parish Council is at present pursuing the possibility of residents from this area using the recently renovated Poole Court in Yate for Marriage Services, rather than having to go to Quakers Friars in the centre of Bristol. However this is likely to be a lengthy process as boundaries and responsibilities will need to be re-drawn.

Are you or any of your household responsible for the quantity of litter in the village? There are litter bins at various points in the village but obviously (look around you) there are people who either don't use them or wont take their litter home.

The Parish Council will be holding its budget meeting in early December. It is this meeting when the budget for the financial year 1992/3 will be agreed and grant applications from village organisations and clubs considered.

Mrs Jenny Hughes   Clerk to the Council

5

Hello all,
Well we are keeping our heads above water thanks to all our new Mums who keep arriving (mostly from the Woodlands Road area) it's really great to see so many Mums and children enjoying themselves. We have loads of activities and toys for the little ones and loads of coffee and cake for the Mums.

The children's Christmas Party with Father Christmas is on December 19th '91 and our annual Mums night out is in December, so if there's any new Mums with toddlers 3 or under who would like to join us – please call in any Thursday morning between 10.15–11.30 am in the village hall and we'll give you a warm welcome.

If you would like any further information please do not hesitate to contact myself or Elaine Popham on 26xxxx

See you soon
Sue Richings
Secretary

by Colin Bryant Licensed Conveyancer

Certainly not – Then why do Conveyancers make Local Searches and why do they take so long to complete? Fair question since in almost every case your Conveyancer will not let you exchange Contracts to purchase your dream home before he has the satisfactory result of his search and answers to his numerous enquiries accompanying it. The search and questions are addressed to the relevant Local Authorities who differ widely in their response times. Northavon District Council are superb with a turn around time of usually 5 to 7 days (even within hours if really urgent) whereas some authorities, particularly Inner London ones, can take 12 weeks. I know the discrepancy seems inexplicable but I guess they have their reasons.

We make searches to discover if the property is likely to be affected by any of a host of horrible matters – to list a minute sample – a new line of street, road charge liability, Building control enforcement notices, or perhaps a drainage charge. Lets see, did the previous owner of the property have work carried out on the drains by the Local Authority four years ago, fail to pay the bill which now through compound interest amounts to a very substantial sum – no search was done, or perhaps it was and the existing “charge” was overlooked – now your new home (your asset) is landed not only with your mortgage debt but you will have taken over responsibility for the drainage work bill! Nasty. Your Purchaser, when in due course you come to sell, will want you to settle that (including the interest on it), when he discovers its existence by searching before he exchanges contracts to buy your property. Of course this is simplistic, it is a complicated and detailed subject and space here is short. Suffice it to say your Conveyancer should be happy to go through all pre-contract papers and searches with you and to your satisfaction.

6

Star Gazing
Astronomers, so we are told, have recently found what appears to be the most luminous object known in the Universe. It is 16000 million light years away, and 300 million million times brighter than the Sun. In common with most other people I am completely ‘mind boggled’ by this kind of scientific discovery, and can only stand gazing into the depths of outer space on any starlit night simply echoing the words of the Psalmist in Psalm 8 “When I consider the heavens, the work of Thy fingers, the Moon and stars which Thou has ordained, what is man that Thou art mindful of him?”

The only satisfying answer to this question is found, so we believe, in the original Christmas story, the story telling of Shepherds and star-gazers studying the sky at night without the aid of modern radio telescopes or knowledge of Light years, yet leaning heavily upon the stars for guidance, seeking for a sign of hope in a really hopeless world, and recognizing it when it came, so that in Matthew's gospel we read “When they saw the star (which was indeed brighter that any other) they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.”

A legend tells us however, how these same wise men lost sight of the star as they journeyed across the desert from the East, finally finding it again reflected from the water of a wayside well. Similarly, we know that there are many people today who have lost their bearings simply because they have lost sight of the star of God's guidance. The opportunity to find it again however, is freely available, and we do indeed trust that some may in fact rediscover it during the Advent season through which we are now passing – so making their Christmas truly happy – and the year ahead a peaceable and spiritually prosperous one. The carol writer puts it this way:-

Star of wonder, Star of night,
Star with royal beauty bright,
Westward leading, still proceeding,
Guide us to Thy perfect light.

Thanksgiving A very sincere thank you to all who contributed in any way towards the success of our Harvest Thanksgiving Services and Gift Day. A wonderful amount of fruit and other garden produce was taken away by Colonel Holmes of the Salvation Army, for distributing amongst the poor and needy, and the Gift Day total to date stands at £85. Praise God from whom all blessings flow.

Forth-coming Events:
November 10th – United Rem. Day Service at St John's Church
Christmas Concert Friday Dec 6th at 7.30pm – Dursley Male Voice Choir Admission £1 Proceeds to Dr Barnardos.
Christmas Carol Services Sunday Dec 15th 3pm, Family Service 11am Christmas Day – short service at 10.30 am

7

Although I am a newcomer (2½ years and counting) to Charfield, I have quickly come to feel more at home here than anywhere else I have lived. The rural location suits me and, although newcomers to the village can sometimes be resented (probably deservedly in some cases), I have been made to feel very welcome indeed by those I have met so far. Let me say it clearly – I like living in Charfield and appreciate the community spirit.

I read with some interest the following passages in the Inspector's Report to the Secretary of State for the Environment regarding the development appeal (December 1986):

“Charfield has no outstanding character apart from some individual buildings of interest.”

Well, perhaps we don't look as cute as some Cotswold villages. Looks aren't everything.

“The village appears to have satisfactorily absorbed successive and substantial increases in its population without serious damage to its sense of identity and community. It has a thriving community which cares for and seeks to protect its village character.”

The Report estimated the development would bring an increase in population of 430 persons, based on an average 2.53 persons per dwelling. That's 170 dwellings. We shall actually have 196 (after all the alterations to the plans by the sundry developers) – that's 496 persons, on average, to ‘absorb’. So the increase is not 20.9%, but 24.1%. In round terms, not an increase of a fifth, but a quarter of the original population. That is a challenge to any thriving community which wishes to preserve its identity and village character.

“One of the attractions of village life to many people is the closeness of the community and the opportunity to participate in local life and activity. There is no reason to think that the residents of the development would not share the same outlook and interests as others who have come to the village. The opportunities exist for them to join in the village life and no doubt they would do so. The additional population might add to the pressures on some facilities but could support and encourage others.”

People choose where to live according to diverse criteria: cost, availability, avoidance of buying ‘chains’, proximity to place of work, etc. etc. Although it would be nice to think that the choice was always as positive as the Inspector suggested, I fear it is not always the case. I have heard it said often enough that Charfield is a ‘bed and breakfast’ village and that comparative newcomers are not really interested in the village community. Further, that they are not willing to make any commitment by supporting village life in any way.

Well, I am a newcomer, and I do care. I feel the onus is on us Johnny-Come-Latelys to show willing and take an interest in Charfield. A little effort from everybody would go a long way towards ensuring that Charfield's character does not become dissipated, diluted by this additional 25%, but rather 8strengthened. It does, however, require effort from everybody.
So:
Join in with the local clubs and organisations.

Keep an eye on noticeboards. Parish Council agendas are posted for your information. Meetings are on the 2nd Tuesday of every month. If there is anything of interest to you or if you wish to hear the Councillors in full throat – turn up. (Planning applications, road safety, holiday play schemes, burial ground … all interesting stuff).

Help with the CHADRA Newsletter – contributions for publication – deliver a few – whatever you like.

Support the Memorial Hall – could you do something to help the Management Committee? After all, it's the only facility we've got …

Above all, take an interest – an interest in your community, your environment.

All the best,
Julia O'Connor Beach.

P.S. Let's hope the opening of the Railway Station does not give Charfield another large percentage to absorb … be on your guard!

We were hoping there would be lots more entries in the Flower and Vegetable Show this year. Maybe the weather was to blame?

Congratulations to Mr R. Eucott of Cromhall who won the Shield for the highest points in the show, also the trophy for the Best Exhibit which was his Collection of Vegetables. I am sure we were all amazed at the results of his patience and hard work. Congratulations also to Mr and Mrs Padfield – close runners-up. Thank you for supporting Charfield.

What happened to all the wine makers locally? We really hoped we would have a good selection to choose from – still, maybe another year.

To all the children that entered the Children's Section, a great big thank you for a good response. The faces on the Plates of Pulses were very good and it was most difficult to decide on the winners. Well done!

Incidentally, there are two rosettes for ‘First’ that were not collected. I have made enquiries at Charfield School, but to no avail. If anyone claims these, perhaps they would contact myself or someone on the Hall Management Committee.

Finally, to all who took the time to come along with their exhibits – Thank you.

Regards, Pat White

9

When some months ago, we first decided to have a ‘Celebration of Baptism’ in Church on the 22nd September we had no idea of how it would turn out. As may be imagined, it was a lot of work for some people and it was good that so many accepted the invitation and came; the main part of the Church was full and in all 30% of those invited were present which was a good percentage as quite a few had moved away from Charfield. Even some of those who had moved away came.

The following Sunday we celebrated Harvest Thanksgiving, rounded off with a Harvest lunch; Chicken Supreme and vegetables or Beef cooked in beer and vegetables. There was also sherry and punch, with apple tart and cream for sweet. Warm thanks are due to those who cooked the dinner and otherwise prepared the food for a new venture and a happy occasion.

Our Bishop John Yates of Gloucester will be leaving us in October. He will have been Bishop of Gloucester for 16 years. There is an opportunity for any who wish to meet him and his wife informally in the Cathedral on the evening of 14th October. He has been a much loved Bishop, open, gentle and understanding and one does not like parting with such people. Although he would have retired at this time in any case he is not exactly going into retirement as he will be helping the new Archbishop of Canterbury as ‘Bishop of Lambeth’ to assist and co-ordinate his work. We shall have in due course a new Bishop of Gloucester; who it will be we have not yet heard. Meanwhile the assistant Bishop, Jeremy Walsh, Bishop of Tewkesbury will have the whole burden to bear.

Remembrance Sunday this year falls on the 10th November. As most People know we meet at the village War Memorial at 10.55am on that day for an ‘Act of Remembrance’ at which for many years Lord Ducie has read the names of those from this village who gave their lives in the two world wars of this century. The people concerned are not known by most people in this greatly enlarged village but, of course, they are the relatives and friends of some people still here and even if we do not ourselves know the names of the ‘fallen’, their names are symbolic of all those names that will be mentioned on that day under similar circumstances, in villages, towns and cities. When we realise this, we can see that it is an immense act of Remembrance at the same time, an act of national solidarity towards that immense number of young people whose lives became a sacrifice in the fight against evil tyranny, selfishness – sin is a Christian word for it. It is a remarkable thing that the nations of Europe who have fought one another for millennia are now united in a unity of peaceful, but competitive, effort for the good of all. Yugoslavia is the odd one out at the moment, torn as it is by internal strife and historic enmities. Let us pray that understanding and moderation may gain the upper hand there in the near future.

After that ‘Act of Remembrance’ outside, there will be a short service in Church at which we have the pleasure of the company of the British Legion and of the Youth Organisations, as well as other parishioners. It is always good to see so many in Church for this occasion when we are called to ‘remember’, and also to pledge ourselves, for their sakes, in the cause of justice and peace.

10 And now for a few reminders of forthcoming events. On the 16th November in Foundation room at the School we are holding an event called ‘TINSEL and TEA’. This will be a sale, starting at 2.30 pm, with a Christmassy flavour, with such items as Christmas wrapping paper, Christmas cards, sweets, cakes, toys, books, ‘good-as-new’, raffle, refreshments.

December 8th at 10.15am CHRISTINGLE service. December 13th for all village organisations, a carol sing-song & items from organisations in Church (where it's warmer) this year. CHURCH CAROL service 22nd December 3pm. 24th December 11.30pm MIDNIGHT MASS of Christmas. CHRISTMAS DAY 10 am Family Eucharist, suitable for children too.

HAPPY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!

In 1978 a telephone caller enquired whether the Hospital Broadcasting Society would broadcast some of his own records when he came into Bristol Royal Infirmary for a leg amputation. On being asked when he would be admitted the calmly replied “The doctor says that when the pain gets too bad I can go in and get it done”. This comment accurately reflects the outlook of the late Rod Pidgeon.

The subsequent amputation of his other leg might have resulted in a severely restricted lifestyle – but it did not, Rod's small blue car was a familiar sight in the Charfield area but it also took him far and wide.

His concern for others was not restricted to his many friends – he supported organisations which sought the welfare of the underprivileged throughout the world. His particular concern for other handicapped people led him to take an active part in the National Association for Limbless Disabled and also in Church Action on Disability.

In April last year he suffered a heart attack and from then onwards his condition progressively deteriorated – although he did not permit this to unduly curtail his activities or halt the flow of typical wisecracks! Rod Pidgeon died on 29th April 1991 aged 63 years.

John Bunyan's words seem appropriate: “So he passed over, and all the trumpets sounded for him on the other side”.

David W Loveridge
Fishponds, Bristol

11

With red face, let me quickly put to rights from my previous report, that Priston Mill is not a bakery, but a mill which dates back to the records of Domesday, and to this present day is still a working corn mill, receiving the local farmers grain for milling. Although the summer evening in July was more appropriate to a chilly winter's night, we braved the whistling winds around the mill and enjoyed the tour of its ancient stone walls and sensed the power of water turning the present water wheel, (which is thought to have been installed about the 1850's) which in turn sets all the other machinery working to grind the corn into flour, – hence the famous Priston Mill flour and the lovely wholemeal bread which results from it. Our evening ended on the premises in a warmly lit dining hall in enjoyable company one with the other, and refreshments.

Through the month of August (our holiday break) we have not been idle! Some of us met for a Skittles evening. Although one member had not played for years, she was one of the top scorers, and that does not mean the rest of us were playing badly! Needless to say, she now finds herself in the W.I. team representing Charfield, which our willing Captain, Margaret Jones rallies together.

Our next venue was Dursley Swimming Pool, a most enjoyable evening was experienced by all shapes and sizes – just as well it was an “All Ladies” session – and we came away with vowed intention to keep the water wings flying!

The end of our holiday break culminated in a visit to Lackham College, a “September Spectacular” organized by Wiltshire Federation. The day, after a cloudy start, broke forth into warm sunshine, enabling us to enjoy a picnic lunch, take a few photographs for the W.I. album, and wander in the beautiful gardens, besides enjoying all the crafts and craft sales – flower arranging, cookery competitions, demonstrations, music, the farming museum and nature walks. Our legs feeling weary at the end of the day, we ended up riding on a tractor driven wagon, seated on straw bales – what a laugh! A truly enjoyable day in more ways than one. Ask if you dare!!

Now it is back to the grind-stone for us – not pulling in the corn and tares – but pulling in New Members, we hope. Though we promise not to treat you in like manner as the grind-stone!

We have a varied programme of many interests in store – plus the ‘Craft’ afternoon, every Thursday between 2–4pm at Mrs Dodd's home. So why not come along to the Village Hall, the 2nd Thursday of each month at 7.30pm and sample your local W.I. We can vouch that you will have a warm welcome and good fellowship, and as our Chairman of Avon Federation, Mrs Joan Walker, so aptly said in her address at our Council meeting on October 2nd at the Winter Gardens, Weston-Super-Mare:-

Quote – “Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name”

Do come along – we will get to know your name, and you will get to know ours. Hoping to meet you there.

Daphne Looker
President

12

As I write this article, the winter is creeping upon us with the changing of the clocks putting behind us Day Trips for 6 months or so. The Outing Secretary, Mrs. Amer, has worked very hard organising our visits on various days to Poole, Weymouth, and not forgetting our favourite resort – Weston-super-Mare.

But it wasn't all sand and sea! There was a half day journey to the Cotswold Water Park and, more recently, a visit to the Forest of Dean to view the changing colours of the leaves in the woodlands. The leaves hadn't changed much though, so on to Monmouth for our afternoon tea.

A very enjoyable meeting was our Harvest Home when one of our members, Rev. Parker, held a short service and prayer and then Mr. Popham auctioned the produce for our Club funds.

We still welcome new members – as we have from time to time during this year.

E.H. Orton
Chairman.

The Brownies have all returned from holiday more enthusiastic and certainly noisier than they were at the end of July! Most of them have now completed their Ramblers Badge and are about to embark on their Crime Prevention Badge. P.C. Bee has kindly offered his help and will be coming to one of our Pack Meetings to talk to the girls.

Plans are under-way for a Halloween Party so don't be surprised to find witches, goblins and ghouls gathering at the Village Hall. For those of you wondering if you'll notice the difference, the answer is – probably not!

On Saturday 9th November, the District is holding a Christmas Fayre at Kingswood Village Hall 2–4 p.m. Please come along and support us.

Our Annual Remembrance Parade will be on Sunday 10th November.

If you have a daughter who would like to join Brownies please contact me on Fal. 26xxxx.

V. MacLellan.

Advertising

[Advert for “Mischief” Children's Clothes]

13

It was in December 1989 that the County Council established a Public Transport Forum comprising representatives of the County Council, District Councils, Parish Councils and other appropriate groups of local organisations interested in, or involved in, the provision of public transport. It was intended that the Forum should provide an exchange of views about the County's policies on this topic.

The County Forum meets regularly and the Avon Local Councils (i.e. Parish and Town Councils) is one of the representative bodies.

The discussions embrace a wide spectrum including among other matters, the proposed Avon Light Rail Transit Association and also Park and Ride schemes such as the one operating for the City of Bath.

Then there has been consideration given to the theme of Community Transport and Public Transport for persons with impaired mobility. Avon Council Commissioned a consultant study to develop a strategy. Stage One of the study would include obtaining information on:

i) existing transport services and any future proposals to extend these services,
ii) the local needs of people with impaired mobility and the extent to which these needs vary in different areas of the County
iii) how far existing services meet these needs.

This has involved sending a questionnaire to individuals with a handicap within the County of Avon. One observation at a recent Forum was for railway platforms and carriages to blend to the needs of the handicapped. The County would welcome individual comments from members of the public.

The railway passenger service is invariably on the agenda. The County Council has carried out a series of rail development profiles to identify action to improve rail passenger facilities in Avon and this led to a joint funding of new stations at Yate and Worle. The County Council was also considering the possibility of investing in rolling stock which would benefit services throughout the County and therefore aid in alleviating urban traffic congestion.

At one meeting, someone observed that perhaps improvement to the local rail infrastructure could be funded by reducing the expenditure on the Highway Improvement Programme?

Perhaps one day the residents of Charfield and the surrounding area will know the outcome of preliminary discussions undertaken by Avon, by Gloucestershire and by British Rail over making rail transport facilities once more in Charfield?

One of the “spin-offs” of the Public Transport Forum has been to also initiate Area Meetings to facilitate discussion and also consultation on policy matters of local interest.

One such meeting took place in the Northavon area, namely in Yate, on September 4th 1991 when many Parish Councils and other organisations met with County personnel and with District Council representatives.

14The Acting Chief Engineer of the County Council Public Transport Division introduced a slide presentation which informed those present of the public transport responsibilities and activities of the County Council.

The meeting was informed of County discussions with the Northavon District Council regarding the provision of a permanent Park and Ride Scheme operating from Bradley Stoke to Bristol.

The main delay in progressing this scheme was the identification and the acquisition of a suitable site and the introduction of associated bus priority measures. However a Park and Ride Scheme operating from Bristol Polytechnic to Bristol City Centre would be in operation during the 1991 Christmas period.

The poor condition and facilities at the Bristol Bus Station were referred to. Mr Rackley, Badgerline Ltd (owners of the bus station) agreed that improvements should be made and indicated that Badgerline Ltd had applied for outline planning permission to redevelop the site as a shopping development to include a retention of the bus station, but financial resources in today's economic climate thwarted this.

In reply to a question, it was noted that the County Council anticipated that the Light Rail Transport system would complement the Rail Service in operation at the Yate Station. Meanwhile the level of service from B.R. would continue and it was hoped to renew old rolling stock operating on this line. Again through limited resources precluded increasing the level of service at this time.

Rural bus services also came in for further requests including a bus service to operate from Codrington and Dodington to Yate Railway Station. Also an extension or introduction of a new service to serve Frenchay Common.

For a service from Yate to Parkway Station, it was pointed out, such a service in the past proved unsuccessful because bus drivers would not wait for trains which ran behind schedule. Even so, it was pointed out, there was a train service operating between the Yate and the Parkway Railway Stations. An improvement of bus facilities to the Southmead and Frenchay Hospitals was said not to be cost effective, but the alternative transport e.g. social car schemes, could be looked into if the demand could be identified.

Among other topics discussed was the availability of Public Transport publicity and although it was pointed out that publicity material was available in public libraries, this did not help residents in rural localities.

Under the 1985 Transport Act, the County Council has a duty to provide services not provided for by commercial undertakings. Even so, the County does not want to inhibit private enterprise, but this enterprise is monitored by the County's Annual Review. In one of the Forum discussions it was noted that the County Council is itself holding a large fleet of coaches. Comments were made to the seeming under-use of these vehicles during the daytime, or the evening time, outside their peak use for school transport, bearing in mind the County's statutory responsibility to augment unmet transport requirements, in the Community at large.

15The County has an annual review of all commercial contracts and assess what optimum use is made by each one of them. In discussion there was a minority criticism of the state of some vehicles. Other comments related to the confusion, to passengers waiting at a bus stop, of the identification of the route number displayed on the approaching vehicle as to whether or not it would go by the route the passengers wanted.

On another occasion, reference was again made to the 1985 Transport Act allowing Authorities to operate concessionary fare schemes. The present system is confusing.

One recommendation was for the County Council and not the District Council to operate a County wide concessionary fare scheme. (Anomalies could still exist though for a bus route extending into another county). Other views were for a preferred option of a pass or a token scheme.

In any case, wider publicity would need to be implemented for those eligible.

One other interesting point raised recently is that a working group is in being to assess what co-ordination could ensue over a wider use of a minibus owned by an individual organisation without its charity status being affected. It was acknowledged that where a small unit has struggled hard to raise the money to buy a vehicle, it could well be hesitant to make it available for hire.

There may, though be some occasions when the concept of sharing could be mutually helpful.

Future meetings will be on the basis of Avon Group Meetings (e.g. Northavon) twice a year and the main County Co-ordinating Group twice a year

David W Parker
Avon Local Councils Association
September 1991

Guides returned after their holiday on September 6th with all the girls refreshed. I hope they all had good hols; the rest was much needed by the helpers and leaders. On September 11th we had a special evening for Lee Ann. In July she was presented with a certificate for her courage by the Lord Lieutenant of Gloucestershire. The award recorded her determination to overcome her deafness. During the evening the girls were treated to a light supper. I would like to thank Mr and Mrs Millman for this.

15 Guides studying First Aid with the help of Mr Carter. During September the girls all went up to Julie's house to watch a video all about accidents and how to cope with them.

Helen our oldest Guide has been put forward for International selection. Helen went in for it last year and only just missed out, so we are all hopeful for her this time.

On November 10th we will once again be marching with the British Legion for the Remembrance Day Service at St John's Church. Next year – we are taking a party of Guides to the Hippodrome to see the Panto.

Early Reminder January 11th is our Jumble Sale!

16I would like to say a Thank You to all our Badge testers who give up their time. Many more testers are needed so if you can help give me a ring; I am only talking about 15 minutes of your time.

Finally, I can now say Tania Williams has now got a warrant as an Assistant Guider.

Mary Westlake
Guide Guider

Assurance for life

Life Assurance policies are probably a subject that you have heard lots about, but you're not quite sure whether they are relevant to you and if they are, how is the best way to find out about them. Hopefully the following few paragraphs will give you an idea about the issues involved and help you to come to a decision one way or the other.

Life assurance provides a financial benefit following death of the policy holder and is particularly helpful in relation to early or unexpected death. It is called ‘assurance’ as opposed to ‘insurance’, because it provides cover for an event that will inevitably happen rather than an event which may or may not happen. Although there are a number of different types of policies available they fall broadly into two categories. Within these there should be enough flexibility to ensure that you can choose the balance between savings and protection most suited to your requirements.

First, there are those for which benefits are only paid out if the policy holder dies are commonly known as whole life temporary/term assurance. Secondly, there are those that are paid out if either the policy holder dies or when the policy matures. These are called endowment assurance and they provide you with protection in the event of early death whilst also acting as a form of savings.

Before taking out any kind of policy you should go through the pros and cons first and life assurance is not different. Think carefully before you sign anything and always be sure all your anxieties have been answered. Life assurance is a major long term financial commitment which you probably won't be able to get out of without losing some of your money.

It is always a good idea to visit as many different companies as possible. This will give you a feel for all the different types of policies available and help you to decide which is the most suitable for you. Do you want a lump sum paid to your dependants when you die, or do you want a policy which pays out a lump sum when the policy matures, if this is before you die? Do you want to be able to increase the payments if your salary increases? These are some of the questions that might need answering before you sign on the dotted line. There are a lot of enthusiastic sales people about whose job it is to make you sign so be sure that it's the policy that has convinced you and not the seller.

17This can be a very difficult decision and it is often a good idea to talk it through with someone first. Although they won't be able to tell which one to choose, your local Citizens Advice Bureau will be happy to talk it through with you and point you in the right direction.

You will find us at the Council Offices in the Chipping car park in Wotton-Under-Edge on Tuesday mornings from 10 am to 1.00 pm, tel: 0453 84xxxx. At other times in Stroud tel: 0453 76xxxx

Barbara Adams

I am sad to have to report that my predecessor, Mrs Jean McGonnigill who lived for many years in Charfield, died on October 15th.

Jean or Mrs Mac as she was often called, helped many, many people during her 25 years work for Citizens Advice Bureaux – first in Scotland, then in Wotton and Stroud.

She was a most kind and caring person, with a great sense of humour, an invaluable friend and colleague, who will be greatly missed.

Barbara Adams.

[Graphic: Christmas Tree]

Calling all potential Graphic Designers!!
Is there anyone who would like to spare some time in the preparation of the Newsletter, who has access to a computer with Graphics software and a Dot Matrix Printer. We have discovered we can use the technology to draw cartoons and pictures – such as the Christmas Tree alongside – to illustrate the Newsletter. This opens up the possibility for crossword puzzles, quizzes etc.

Please contact either John Butler, or one of the Eds if you are interested.

CHARFIELD STATION   A PUBLIC MEETING
to be held at the School Hall on Monday 2nd December 1991 at 7.30pm.

County Councillor Pat Hockey and County of Avon Officers will be present to explain the proposals and to answer queries.

Clerk to the Council

18

He sat there with the correspondence in his hand. “I've got the sack,” he said.

Oh yes, the letter started off very nicely thank you, how production was getting low and the workforce needed rearranging and then the little bombshell was slipped, ‘you are no longer required’.

The cold clammy realisation of all the implications of what this meant slowly came through. You shut down all doors, what do you mean you need a comic this week, yes beans on toast are good for you, help! a new school uniform for next September, better start saving now, no we can't afford that dinner and dance we've been to for the last four years, yes we still owe a thousand on the car, yes you can have a new Guide uniform.

Things could be worse you know, so people say. True.

I was sitting in the hairdressers last week having a quick touch up of the roots and this was being carried out by the Manager. Normally one of the lesser mortals in the establishment has this messy job. However, I remarked how flattered I was and also by the fact that he wasn't wearing protective gloves. “Don't let the Health and Safety people know“ he said.

Well this lady next to me pipes up, “Ooh that's just like us at school. When a child falls over in the playground, we have to say hold it a minute, put on the gloves before we can administer to their little grazed knees.” “Oh, are you a dinner lady, too?” I ask. There was a deadly silence. “Actually,” she said, “I'm a Deputy Head”.

I could have died on the spot. Get yourself out of this embarrassing pit, I thought to myself. “Well I'm a Parish Councillor, but you'd never know it!!”

I think Life has the most amazing way of giving you a little surprise or a lift to your day when you least expect it. Keith and I went to find out how much some paving slabs would cost and we came face to face with a sick piranha. Now I should say thanks to Sue Nash at this point because she told us about this place and I think she'd like a mention. We found this little office tucked away in the corner of a great big industrial yard full of action, stuck our heads round the door and came face to face with a gorgeous tanned gentleman with lovely long legs, (it was August) surrounded by fish tanks. How soothing I thought. He then pointed out that in one of them was his sick piranha. He looked all sort of nibbled at, the fish, that is not the paving slabs merchant. He explained that all the others had had a go at him so he was now in the sick bay. “Oh right” I said, half expecting some healthy specimens to wriggle out from somewhere. We thanked him for the price quote and left. Well you don't get that in B & Q do you?

Do you know that my idea of luxury at the moment is treating myself to a new paper bag in the vacuum cleaner. The suction on that is unbelievable.

19We've at last found out that Worms do NOT have eyes. I'm not sure if they are related to slugs but if slugs do not have eyes either then they must have the most amazing sense of smell. Yes I know all you gardeners out there KNOW that slugs are amazing because they defy all your wishes and eat your yummy plants. I left out some cat food the other day for a passing hedgehog and the next morning I spied a sluggy column. I could imagine them dead flat under a pile of rubble when their little nostrils started twitching. Grub's up folks!!

Well that's it for the moment, take care and I shall get my brain in gear for the next time.

Best Wishes
Marilyn

The football season is now well under-way once more, and both of the village sides are looking to build on their respective mid-table positions at the end of last season.

The 1st team, under the manager of Craig Halliday, are competing once more in the Gloucestershire Northern Senior League, and showed some encouraging signs in the league's pre-season Cup Competition with fine wins over Longford and Dursley both from the division above, before going out at the quarter final stage to Frampton, by the odd goal.

The Reserves, being led by Pete Walker in his first attempt as manager within the village, have a lot to look forward to this season. Providing they can organise early, I believe that the squad of players available are good enough to challenge in their division of the Stroud league, and perhaps enjoy a Cup run along the way.

Socially the club are trying to organise a number of events in the coming months, these will include a Family Disco Night towards the latter part of November, A Christmas Fancy Dress Disco (remember last year?) not to be missed, and a Charity Football Match on Boxing Day morning – 10.30am kick off with proceeds from players and supporters being donated to charity. The sides will be The Committee XI v The Club XI

All events require community support so please look for dates and times around the village nearer each event.

We continue to train at Katherine Lady Berkeley School throughout the winter (in term time) at 7.45 until 9.15pm each Wednesday, and welcome anyone along for personal fitness or playing football. We have listed our home fixtures and the Committee and players welcome any support from interested parties.

2030 YEARS AGO

[Photo 1]

A trip down memory lane provides plenty of familiar names to Charfield, with the team photo line-up reading left to right:
(back row)
E. SPILL
D. BENNETT
B. MANN
T. GOSCOMBE
D. ROBINSON
S. WEBB
(front row)
K. EACOTT
W. CARTER
J. McLAREN
C. MOODY
D. MERRETT

Of those players listed:-
E. Spill (Mark and Paul's Uncle)
B. Mann (Simon and Jason Gardiner's Uncle)
W. Carter (Richard and Tim's Father)
J. McLaren (Andy's Father)
C. Moody (Wayne's Father)
K. Eacott (Club Official)
are all still connected with the club either personally or by a relative. This side were League and Cup Winners in 1960–1961 and subsequently entered the Northern Senior League in the Season 1961–1962.

[Photo 2] JOHN McLAREN the Charfield captain shakes hands with Arthur Crowe the Bailey's skipper before the start of the G.F.A. Junior Cup final at Cam on Saturday. The referee is F. Colwin.

[Reproduction of Gazette article, Saturday, April 15, 1961]

CHARFIELD G.F.A. JUNIOR CHAMPIONS

Charfield checked in ‘double’ bid

With the G.F.A. Junior Cup already in their possession, Charfield faltered in the second leg of their league and cup ‘double’, when they were beaten at Brimscombe in Division 1 of the Stroud League on Tuesday.

Charfield needed to win at Brimscombe to make certain of finishing as champions of the Stroud League's first division, but instead they suffered a 1–0 defeat.

The title will now be decided today (Saturday), when Charfield play their remaining match at Forest Green. Providing Charfield win they will end the season as champions. If they drop a point and Avening win their two outstanding matches a play off will be necessary to decide the championship.

---

Charfield completed the first stage of their “double” with a clear cut victory over Bailey's, the Dursley and Wotton team in the final of the G.F.A. Junior cup at Cam on Saturday.

For Charfield it was a case of second time lucky for they were beaten in last season's Junior Cup final losing 3–2 to Whitecroft. Saturday's victory over Bailey's must strengthen Charfield's application for entry into the Northern Senior League next season.

Bailey's, who reached the G.F.A. Junior final at their first attempt were handicapped by the absence of Len Tracey their leading scorer. Centre-forward Tracey who has has scored almost 60 goals this season was injured in a recent Dursley and Wotton League match against Sharpness and he failed to pass a fitness test for Saturday's final.

Bailey's were first to score, regular full-back Bill Young, who was filling the left-wing position position, putting them in front. The Power Station team held their lead until just before the interval when Charfield were awarded a penalty, which they snapped up.

After Charfield had gone in front in the second-half they gradually wore down the Bailey's defence which went to pieces in the last 15 minutes. Centre-forward Steven Webb completed a hat-trick for the winners.

21[Fixture List]

22

Please note: If any of the above information is incorrect, or requires amendment, please contact the Editors as soon as possible so that it can be rectified before the next issue.

Telephone numbers commencing 84… use code 0453
Those commencing 26… 29… 41… use code 0454

Transcriber Notes

This issue was produced on 22 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: 2017-01-17.