CHADRA

Hello everyone

A Happy New Year to all Charfield Residents!

Can you help us to solve one of the mysteries of the universe – Where is the centre of Charfield?

From time to time we are asked this question. No one seems to have the answer.

Is it the Church/School area? Or the Village Hall?

If anyone has any views, we'd like to hear from you.

Please write on this or, of course, any other subject, for our next issue in April

M.H.
J.P.
Eds.

NEXT COPY DATE – 12TH APRIL 1992

Published by Charfield & District Residents' Association (CHADRA)

2

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3

I am writing this (typing, to be exact) on Boxing day (there is always something to be done!). The aura of the Christmas services is therefore still with me. And what good ‘after memories’ there are to remember. The pre-Christmas period stimulates the memory of the ‘Village Sing’ on the 13th of December when all the village organisations had been invited to came to Church for a carol-sing, and, if they liked, perform an item. The attendance was excellent and the items produced by a number of the village organisations made a greatly appreciated sandwich-filling between the carols that all sang. It was a very enjoyable evening – much warmer in Church than it had been the previous year outside, and more audible! We also had the support of a section of the Stinchcombe band that led us, vigorously, in the singing, the occasion concluding with a mince pie and a hot drink.

Coming closer to Christmas, as the temperature falls the emotional temperature rises and the service of Carols and Lessons on the Sunday before Christmas, the 22nd December, saw a very good attendance with the lessons being read by various people, women and men, with some selection from those who had recently had a baptism at St John's, and a marriage; in one case a marriage to come. This, with the singing, we hope leaves happy memories in many minds.

Then the ‘Midnight service’ on Christmas Eve (11.30 pm to be exact) – the service that ushers in Christmas Day. I think that we had more people to this than I can remember (and I can remember many!) There is always a magic about this service in any case: so close to the Christmas event that we are celebrating. There is the warmth of feeling of the special season and I believe that something of the real meaning, the real ‘feel’ of the event gets through to all who come. It is a very great pleasure for me to see so many present and a privilege to speak to so many on this occasion. I think that coming to this service brings its own reward in a reminder (so easily forgotten) of what the celebration is really about and consequently the enjoyment of the holy-day (holiday) at a deeper level than would otherwise be the case. This service is, of course, a ‘Eucharist’ (a word whose basic meaning is ‘Thanksgiving’), with the bread and wine of Christ's life ‘given’ (in life and death) for us. Of course many people brought up in the Church and ‘confirmed’, do partake of the holy elements at this service; but it is only about one third of those who are there who do. Now, I am not complaining; far from it: it is lovely to see people there whether they participate of not. But I do wonder (and it is part of my job to do so!) whether some of those would like to participate more fully; would like to know more about what this action of ‘communion’ is really about, what it means, what we have to do to come to it, how we prepare ourselves for it etc. If there are any such people who read this, please let me know if I can help you. I am sure that such things must cross the minds of those who are present on this happy, holy occasion and I would not like to think that confused thoughts or lack of knowledge would keep any from a full sharing in this service. BUT I do not ever pressurise: I simply offer help if it is needed.

There are a few other thoughts that have sprung from this particular Christmas event. There are so many present at 4this service, some of whom have attended Church here long ago, and others who have attended in other places before they came to live in Charfield. Wouldn't it be fine if you made up your mind to come a bit more frequently here! So many say seriously when they do come, ‘Oh that was lovely. I shall have to come again.’ But the affairs of life close in, the feeling dies and we forget. It's not that we change our mind or think better of it: we just get busy and forget. We may find it helpful to deal with ourselves by making some kind of rule for ourselves, keeping our own check upon ourselves! It is a very great encouragement to me, and to others, to see a good congregation on a happy occasion; and it could be like this more often. I wonder if you will think about that.

It was good to have a number of children at the 10 am Christmas service: they brought some of their Christmas presents to show me and we shared their pleasure in the service.

Our collections at the Midnight and Christmas day services are (and have been for some years) given for ‘Eye Camps in Asia’. These temporary camps, set up because of lack of hospitals on the Asian continent, restore the sight of many blind people, enabling them to work again and in many cases that means enabling them to support their families again. It also prevents imminent blindness. What a precious thing sight is. How good it is to help people who are too poor to help themselves. And what a joy it is to bring literal light to those in the shadow of blindness. And how appropriate that we can do this at a time when, counting our own many blessings, we are rejoicing at the birth of Jesus, the Light of the world. Thanks to those who came and gave we are able to send to this excellent cause £225.81 Thank you!

A happy New Year to you all (even if it is a bit older than ‘new’ when you read this).

K.G. Grant

Sorry I missed the last edition. The pack continues to grow but not in numbers, only 16 at present. Over the last three months we have continued to follow a full active calendar including a trip to the Zoo, we have been swimming at Yate (twice), we held a Bonfire/Fireworks party. There was a district Swimming Gala and a superb Talent evening when the lads entertained the leaders and parents.

By the time you read this we will have already played football twice, visited the Pantomime and held a winter camp.

The return football match with the Charfield Lions will take place in March. The first game played in October resulted in a 3/0 defeat for us. Last January we let a 4 goal lead slip away and lost 5/4. One day we will win a game!

In July we lose a second leader, when Diane Wraith leaves. Any helpers out there?

Pack night is Tuesday, 7.30/8.30 pm at Cromhall Scout Hall.

Thank you, Mike Cheskin (Akela)

5

One voluntary organisation that was formed in 1962, in response to Dr Beeching's Report on the railways, is the ‘National Council on Inland Transport’.

Both at the time of formation, and indeed now, the Council expressed concern that there is no effective transport policy in Britain. Road, rail, air and inland waterways are considered in isolation from each other – and planned according to different investment standards, inhibiting efficiency and fair competition.

Now though, in 1992, there is a lot of public transport awareness about environmental concerns, while inadequate publicity is given to the subject of the roads. They are important, considering how clogged and congested they are becoming – surely there is only room for a certain number of vehicles?

Roads built within the last 30 years have transformed the countryside making fields and woods virtually sterile and turning them into tired tarmac that does nothing to enhance the human spirit. Wall-to-wall roads that bring endless noise and pollution and destroying the diversity and interest found in a natural environment.

The persistent fogs of last month emphasised the problem of air pollution as car and industrial fumes just did not clear. In years to come Governments of the day may be forced to adapt our transport system in order to reduce pollution on health grounds.

It is unfortunate that the hoped for ‘Advanced Transport for Avon’ (A.T.A.) has encountered financial problems after Badgerline pulled out of backing the £230M Metro project. One of the reasons has been the protracted delay as one impediment after another held up agreement over the proposed routing and the presentation of the relevant Bill to Parliament. For those living in the rural areas, this is very sad indeed and one hopes that something may yet accrue.

At the Transport Forum meeting in November 1991 hopes were expressed that the project could exist side by side with an additional transport proposal, though this new proposal would be restricted in its operating range. Badgerline unveiled plans to provide a fleet of ‘bendy buses’ linking Hartcliffe, Southmead and Henbury with the City Centre.

Known as the Guided Light Transit, GLT is a totally new concept of public transport which combines the benefit of a tram with the convenience of the bus. It resembles three vehicles joined end to end. When operating like a tram, GLT is guided by a single rail and powered by electricity. When operating like a bus, namely where no guide rail and electric power is laid on, the vehicle is then steered by the driver and powered by a diesel engine.

The supertram scheme may in due course be extended to parts of Northavon – but first things first, the initial project has yet to be formally approved.

6On reflection it would seem sad that both the A.T.A. and the G.L.T. are having to rely upon private enterprise whereas successful Metros such as Newcastle-Upon-Tyne have been publicly funded.

Perhaps though now some progress is being made to rectify the short sighted recommendations of Dr Beeching who ruthlessly axed so many stations, and the success of the re-opening of the Yate Station demonstrates that folly. More stopping trains should be introduced to provide more feeder services to the big cities during the rush hours and to attract more commuters who at present are faced with high city parking charges, not to mention the pantomime of getting into and getting out of such cities as Gloucester, Bath and Bristol.

In 1956 strict economical use of petrol was urged by the Government when the Suez Crisis curtailed imports from the Gulf and a re-imposition of petrol rationing was imminent. I was living at Cromhall at the time, and like scores of others, was able to benefit from using Charfield Station to board a train to Gloucester and Bristol. Then, soon after moving to Charfield in 1963, the Station was closed!

In 1968 I raised the question of reopening the Station at the Annual Parish Meeting and despite entreaties to the British Rail Western Region, there was no change of heart.

In 1975, the Parish Council and the Charfield Residents Association tried again and although statistical information was obtained by them from a Charfield Transport Survey, still no progress was made. Other avenues were pursued such as through the Railway Development Society which was expressing concern over the number of road fatalities and the cost involved in more ways than one.

In 1980 yet more correspondence was undertaken with British Rail when the Parish Council still wished to examine the feasibility of re-opening Charfield Station, but on this occasion B.R.'s concern was cost and adding that it would be very loath to retard journey times of long distance passengers who formed a substantial part of its revenue!

An interesting article on the history of Charfield Station and written by Mr Will Harris appeared in the Charfield Newsletter at this time. His article concluded with the following comments:-

“Cliffe Goscombe said that some goods ordered by telephone from Bristol, up to 3.30pm, would be delivered to Charfield Station by 6.00pm.”

Bill Carter points out that until the Station's closure local firms did not need to maintain their own transport, except for local journeys, because of the comprehensive freight service offered by the Station. If John Poskett and his colleagues had been given a little more support in 1964, the service would never have been lost.

7Since then, I have taken every opportunity available through the Local Councils Association and also as a follow up to the Avon County Public Transport Plan and also the Land User Transportation study, to urge some action over rail facilities for Charfield.

Now some hope is dawning, due partly to the interest also being shown by Gloucestershire County Council which is prepared to help fund the project, but also due to our own County Councillor, Mrs Pat Hockey who has helped the Parish Council in its desire to have a foot bridge adjacent to the rail bridge.

After many years of striving then, it was a great encouragement to have such a positive response to the re-introduction of a rail service to the village, when the Parish Council arrange for a village meeting. Those who had reservations had ample opportunity to express their views at that meeting and their views will be taken into account, but at least the principle was established. We owe it to future generations.

(Rev) David W Parker
Vice-President Avon Local Councils Association.

All are welcome to attend any of our meetings or services

Charity Concert
As a result of holding yet another concert for charity in December it was pleasing that we were able to send a total sum of £110 to the Dr Barnardo Homes, for which a letter of real appreciation has been received from the Home's District Organiser at Cardiff. Once again our sincere thanks to the Dursley Male Voice Choir, and to all who contributed in any way towards the success of this particular event, and not least to the ladies who kindly served such a feast of refreshments afterwards.

Face Lift
We are pleased to report that much needed kitchen facilities, including sink unit, hot water system and new strip lighting has recently been installed, which together with the new floor covering has received favourable comments from all concerned.

Nice to see you
It was good to welcome some parents, leaders and children from the Playgroup to our Family Carol Service on December 15th. Thank you all for coming.

Forthcoming event – Sunday Evening April 26th ‘The Bristol Evangel Male Voice Choir.’ Please make a note of this in your diary – as one not to be missed. Admission free!

Alternative Medicine
Hard-core drug addiction has been blamed for a record 24,000 murders in the United States last year, and in this country alone the number of people hooked on tranquillizers is put at a really alarming figure of roughly 5 million. Everywhere there is widespread anxiety which can only be properly cured when man makes his peace with God through our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. He it is who says, John 14 Verse 27. “My peace I give unto you; not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

Sunday Opening We are open every Sunday!

Eric Looker

It has been brought to our attention that some residents in the village are experiencing problems with indiscriminate parking. When parking, please try not to obstruct driveways or turning areas.

It is very frustrating not to be able to have access to one's own property and can cause great inconvenience. If it means walking a little further from your vehicle to your destination, just think of it as healthy exercise!!

9

For the benefit of those who have recently come to Charfield, we thought a word or two about the Memorial Hall might be timely. The Parish Council holds the title deeds to the land, and is the Custodian Trustee. The Management Committee is responsible for the administration of the Village Hall and Playing Field, and consists of five elected members and representative members from the various village organisations (e.g. Young Wives, Cricket Club, Youth Club, British Legion, Brownies, etc.).

The Hall is expected to run on a self-financing basis (the bar provides the bulk of the funds), although a modest sum is received from the parish Council each year, and grants are sought for larger projects, such as the extension currently under construction.

Without the hard work and fund-raising carries out by villagers on a voluntary basis, the Hall and Field would fall to rack and ruin, and we would lose the only facility we have. It is used by the various village organisations for their regular meetings, by the sports clubs during their respective seasons, and is also available for hire for private functions.

The extension currently under construction is making good progress, and should be available for us from mid 1992. However, there will have to be a deal of fund-raising to cover the costs of furnishing the new extension – any suggestions?

There is one problem that is particularly hard to cope with – vandalism. Every time a window is smashed, a lock is broken, a fire extinguisher is tampered with, the climbing frame net is cut through, the villagers as a whole are inconvenienced and the cost of repairs takes funds (a four figure sum over the year) which could be put to better use.

Those responsible for the damage can be counted on the fingers of one hand, and they are known by all those who gather at the Hall car park. It is puzzling and disappointing that they are destroying what is, in effect, their own asset. Make no mistake, they are offending against the whole of the village community.

The Police have been called in 3 times recently, and innocent youngsters have had the unpleasant experience of being stopped and questioned. The actions of a guilty few are having wider repercussions on the innocent majority. The only way to stop this problem is for their peers to take action. So, to all those younger villagers: listen up – you do not have to tolerate this. You do not have to take the flack for the actions of a childish few.

The youth of Charfield has as much right as any other section of the village community to use the all car park and Field as a meeting place. However, with this right comes responsibility. Take the responsibility – deal with offending few, and enjoy the rights. You can stop the problem in its tracks, if you want to. It would be much appreciated.

Parents – the goodwill of the Committee is being stretched to the limit. Anything you could do to help solve the problems would be greatly appreciated.

Help is needed with the running of the Hall and Field all year 10round, and especially for the Annual Gala Day, so come forward with your ideas and energy! The Hall and Playing Field belongs to you, so help us to keep them as the village's main asset. Thank you all.

Your Management Committee

I would like to start by wishing you all a Happy and Prosperous New Year.

Carrying on from the last issue, all the Brownies passed their Crime Prevention Badge and I would like to thank P.C. Bee for all his help.

The District Christmas Fayre was very successful and well worth the effort involved.

The Carol Service at St. John's Church was very enjoyable and the Brownies performed their piece with a skill I wouldn't have thought possible (especially after listening to the rehearsal).

A new Challenge Badge has been proposed for Brownies aged nine and over and I am pleased to tell you that the 2nd Charfield Brownie Pack has been chosen from all of the South West Region to pilot the new Badge. Two of our Brownies have taken up the challenge and are at this very moment designing and making items for the three part challenge. I'm sure if enthusiasm is a qualification then they will gain their badges with flying colours.

By the time you read this we will have been to the Panto in Wotton and I am sure it will be as good as last year (who said “Oh, no it won't?”).

Our next parade will be in Wotton on 23rd February when the whole Division will get together for Thinking Day.

The Annual Brownie Party is in the planning stages and will probably be in the Sports Hall at K.L.B.

Anyone who thinks they might like to help Mrs. Cole and myself on a Wednesday night, would be made most welcome. I appreciate that being a Guider is not the most glamorous of jobs, but I can assure you that the fun and sense of achievement has got to be experienced to be appreciated.

It only remains for me to finish with my usual – If you have a daughter who would like to join Brownies, please contact me on Falfield 26xxxx.

Vi MacLellan

11

As we move from 1991 into 1992 there is much to reflect upon and look forward to in the life of our school.

The Autumn Term included a “first” in the form of a Bonfire and Firework Evening – a superb bonfire, a Guy competition, display fireworks and a barbecue provided an enjoyable evening for the many families who came along. We hope that close neighbours were not inconvenienced!

Christmas in schools is traditionally a hectic time and Christmas 1991 was no exception. An “Old Time Music Hall” proved very successful, with 120 Junior children (and many in the audience) dressed in period costume joining together in re-living songs and scenarios from Victorian times. The younger children performed a Nativity in which an alien from outer space visited Earth at Christmas time!

We were delighted that proceeds from the hire of hats at the Music Hall together with collections taken at all performances enables us to send a cheque for over £250 to the Meningitis Trust. A large collection of used postage stamps was forwarded to the Radio One Romanian Orphans Appeal and sacks of aluminium cans sent to the Blue Peter Appeal for the elderly.

What of 1992?
Very shortly we are expecting work to begin on a landscaping project in the central areas of the school. This will include the planting of trees and shrubs plus a rockery and herb garden.

The Parent Teacher Association are hoping to finance refurbishment of our Adventure Playground in readiness for use this coming summer.

Looking even further ahead to our Centenary in 1993 I am interested in exploring ways in which we can involve residents of Charfield who have no direct contact with or knowledge of our school. There must be many people out there with a wealth of local knowledge and expertise in a variety of subjects who could further enhance our children's learning and experience. Any suggestions as to how the school can become more involved in the local community, and vice-versa, would be appreciated.

Finally, I cannot resist a few words on the subject of “School Bashing” which features prominently in the media these days. Anyone not involved could be forgiven for thinking that all of society's ills stem from poor standards of discipline and achievement in our schools. This negative publicity, together with the welter of legislation nationwide, has the effect of a lowering of morale amongst those who work in Education. It would appear that teachers are both the problem and the solution!

No organisation will ever be perfect, whether in the world of Business or Education, however, I know that those in touch with Charfield School appreciate the efforts of a loyal and dedicated staff in their striving to provide a sound education for our children and a school of which Charfield can be justly proud.

C.F. Sreeves Headteacher

12

Following my appeal last year, I am delighted to say that Charfield now has a representative team in the Wotton Quiz League for the 1991/92 season.

This runs from October to March and, at the time of going to press, three rounds have been completed with the Charfield team making a steady start and currently lying in mid-table position.

More news as the season progresses!

Dave Woodhouse

Advertising

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Since I last wrote we have had our 21st Birthday Party & Disco. Sister Wheeler, who had the idea, came along and it was nice to see some members from the past. We had about 80 guests, and it was a very enjoyable evening.

For our Christmas Party this year the Committee had decided to get caterers which was very successful and we could all join in the fun.

I am now coming to the end of a most enjoyable year as Chairperson. I would like to thank the girls on the Committee for their help and wish Jasmine and her new Committee good luck for their year.

The next meeting is the A.G.M. – March 19th.

Bye,
Margaret.

13

Charfield Cricket Club is looking forward, hopefully, to a happy and prosperous new year, and is even now preparing for the 1992 season.

1991 was completed after our A.G.M. in October, Presentation Evening in November and Christmas Draw in December. The A.G.M. heard that both the First and Second XIs had held their own in the respective divisions of the Cheltenham & Gloucester Building Society Cricket League (G.C.C.F) and that the Third XI had had a very difficult season due mainly to lack of availabilities and late withdrawals. Prizes for batting went to James Rawle, Alan Vaughan, and Rod Alexander; for bowling to Matthew Hutley, David Terrett and Michael Colborn (Jnr). The all-rounders of the season were David Bradley, Michael Colborn (Snr) and David Scott. Our spirits were lifted at a successful and relaxing Presentation Evening and Buffet Dance at Leyhill Officers' Club. We were very pleased to make £400 from our annual Christmas Draw and wish to thank our hosts at the Pear Tree Inn for their hospitality.

With a new Committee in place, we are now looking ahead to a full fixture list in 1992. If you are reading about us for the first time, then perhaps you would like to join us in some winter Net Practice. Please note that we are having only ONE net practice session this year. Every Sunday 9.30 to 10.30 a.m. at K.L.B. Sports Centre, Wotton. (60p per session). A kit bag is provided for those wishing to come along. Don't hesitate to contact a Committee member or just come along on the day.

Our season once it gets going will be full and busy, and I am sure there will be plenty of opportunities for a regular game in one of four teams. We will be running teams for younger members. Under 13 XI play in the Bristol & District Youth League, and a team of ‘older’ teenagers play in the former ‘John Macey’ Youth League, as it used to be called.

We are always striving to improve our facilities both on and off the field and 1992 will see new developments of both aspects. I hope we will continue to be a friendly and hard working club, and that if you would like to be a member or just a supporting Vice-President, I would be very pleased to hear from you.

David S. Bradley.

14

Hello and Happy New Year to you all.

On the news today the headlines were that the unemployment list is at the highest it has been for four years. The figure is 2,546,000.

My Keith was made redundant in August 1990. Last September he commenced a ‘re-training’ course at Brunel College. He is classed as a student and is, therefore, NOT on the unemployment list. What makes me flaming mad is that there are at least 11,000 students going through Brunel in one week. Now that is just one establishment. Count up all the others in the country and imagine exactly how many people are out of work and should realistically be on that list. It would come to a much larger and more alarming figure.

Could I ask that if anyone in the village has any old televisions or videos they wish to be rid of Keith would not mind at all taking them off your hands to have a practice on. Thank you.

I know we have a variety of vehicles adorning the front of our cottage, along with the Victorian postbox and the telephone box, which houses my garden tools, but only two of the said motors would get you from A to B. Well last week only one of them would. I shall digress for a minute.

Did any of you watch the Beiderbecke Affair with James Bolam in. He drove an ex British Telecom, bright yellow, HA Viva. Well I fancied one of those. Well Keith couldn't get one but, instead, acquired an ex bright red post office van. He sprayed it bright yellow but the paint ran rather and went all streaky. So a friend who collects buses gave us some ex-bus paint so it's now a blue-y shade with elements of red and yellow here and there. Oh yes it's only got one seat – for the driver, of course. Whether this is so I don't pick up strange hitch-hikers from the M5, I'm not sure. Also the ‘how much petrol have you got’ gauge doesn't work either. Apart from all this it starts first time and is bril to run around in. I call it the firm's van.
Keith has every Wednesday off so we tend to potter about here and there.
This week our family car, the one with seats for five was sick, i.e. it didn't have a clutch. We had to conduct some business over at Yate so we went over in the van. Of course, I drove and Keith sort of leisurely lulled about in the back.
“Are we alright for petrol?” I enquired. Why I asked I do not know. I should have followed my instincts and shot into the Jet garage without even saying anything. But oh no, me female had to ask he, male.
“Oh we should be alright, I've put in a tenners worth.” Mind you he didn't say when.
We were heading along the Sodbury road through to Wickwar when the van started kangaroo hops. “Oh I don't believe it” I exclaimed, or words to that effect. “We're out of ****** petrol”.
“Oh! are we?” came a question somewhere from the back.
Now you realise, of course, that if I'd not put in petrol then the whole damn saga would be different.
It was 3.15 pm. A quarter of an hour before our little darlings were released from the clutches of school, AND to fill a van full of petrol.

15Keith picked up the can and all jolly hockey-sticks proceeded to amble along the road to the Wickwar garage. I was just left sitting there with my four way flashers flashing. Still, I suppose I should be grateful for those.

Twenty past three.
Twenty-five past three.

I should mention that a very kind van driver stopped and gave Keith a lift.

Next I see a familiar white car pull up, dispose of Keith. It was my next-door neighbours. Apparently they'd been driving along trying to decide whether it was my precious trundling along the road with three quids worth of petrol in his hand. The wife said it was and the husband said it couldn't be. Keith wouldn't run out of petrol. Ha! Ha!

Have a great 1992 and I wish you all you wish yourselves.

Best Wishes

Marilyn P Smith
Tel: Falfield 26xxxx

When I came to Charfield about six years ago I didn't know anyone in the village. One of my neighbours invited me to the W.I. so I thought I would go along and see what happened and with the aim of meeting others. I had never been to a W.I. before and knew nothing about it. Some people think it's all JAM and JERUSALEM. Well, I never make jam and they only sing ‘Jerusalem’ twice a year! Anyway, they made me very welcome and I soon got to know a few others.

I very much enjoyed the speakers, tea and cakes, but the business side of the meeting, which is usually the first 30 minutes, left me in a daze, and I was sure I would never get involved in that side of W.I.

However, as you can see, it has now fallen to me to keep you up to date with what is going on at W.I. That first half an hour now makes a lot more sense to me.

There seems to be so much going on in Avon County which members can attend if so interested.

For instance; Home Economics and Craft which includes such things as cookery, quilting, patchwork etc. Sports and Leisure anything from table tennis, bowls, golf to scrabble, Combined Arts such as singing, speaking and acting. It will perhaps not surprise you to know that we also have a skittles team.

I expect you saw us or heard us at Charfield Church Carols when village organisations took part; I thought it was great.

Now we have got over our Christmas party we are looking 16forward to a good programme for 1992.

January	Reflexology
February	Sue Neal of The Meningitis Trust
March	Birthday Party (for members)
April	Trading Standards – Customers' Rights
May	Resolutions
May 9th	Jumble Sale

All ladies of any age are most welcome; should any particular subject be of interest to you and you would like to come along, please do.

You will find us in the Memorial Hall on the second Thursday of the month at 7.30 pm.

See you there

Guilda Ludwell
President

Hello and a Happy New Year to you all.

Just when I thought it was safe to go back into Safeway again, Mary comes up from behind and it's time to get my writing pen out again.

The boys have been quite busy again, with some of them entering the Woodend Route. Even the younger boys completed the Route (Why don't you join us next year; look out for the posters.)

We entered teams for the District Zoo quest.

In October we had 2 special play leaders from Bristol Children's Hospital, St Michael's Hill, to visit for the evening, the boys enjoyed the evening, the best part being the painting with strings; the floor took on a more spotted look than usual afterwards, oops! The leaders went back later with presents for the C.L.I.C. Ward.

We have taken a group of boys to Yate pool to do their Swimmers badges. Well done, to David Williams, Matthew Kowalczyk, Matthew Colla, Colin Watson, Richard Williams and Ben Vale for completing their 1st Stage Swimmer.
Well done, to Richard Williams, Colin Watson, Ben Vale, Matthew Kowalczyk and Matthew Colla for completing their 2nd Stage Swimmer.
Well done, to Colin Watson for completing his 3rd Stage Swimmer.

We spent a pleasant evening at Rowe's Veterinary Hospital. After seeing some slides one little lad asked if could leave the room for fresh air (I can't think why!). We then arrived at the month of December, now renamed the Mad Month. Just to fit in a few activities 17like parties, the group swim at Yate pool, and the village Carol Services. Talking of carol services, or would you rather not after hearing Rudolf the Red Nose Reindeer sung by the Cubs. It wasn't too bad considering we had only one practice at it. We shall try harder next year.

The 16th December 1991 was a special day for all Cub Scouts, it was the 75th Anniversary of Cub Scouting. To mark the occasion we had a District Party, at 7.00pm that night with Cubs all over the world we all renewed our promise, only a few boys turned up but the ones that did had a good party.

AWARDS! You may well ask. The boys are trying very hard to get to grips with the new programme. We have new names for badges and new badges for the boys to achieve. We no longer have the link badge, the Proficiency badges are now called activity badges. The boys now have 3 new badges to work towards, they also have 4 family badges to work for as well, the final badge they can achieve is another new badge called the Cub Scout Challenge badge. Well done to Matthew Barnett, Kevin and Colin Watson, Max Thomas, Clive Jukes, Chris Boon and James Rocky who completed this badge just before they went to Scouts. They planned an outing for the Beavers, taking them to Yate Leisure Centre. This was only part of what they had to do for the badge, keep up the good work.

It has not been just the boys who have bean getting to know the new programmes, the leaders have been working hard too. It is with regret that we had to say good-bye to Lyn Boon, one of our leaders, she had to move with her family due to her husband changing jobs. We all wish her good scouting and good luck in her new home. This now makes us a leader short so if you can spare some time, come along and join us.

My next intake of new boys will be in May so if your son would like to join us please let us know as soon as possible.

I can't finish without mentioning the Cub Football team, we do seem to be having a slightly better season so far (don't get excited, I only said slightly) or we were until young Martin Vale had a nasty tackle with the opposition's goal keeper (see, I said we were better, gone are the days when their goal keeper sits on the ground counting the seagulls and eating his lunch.) Sadly the tackle ended with Martin on the pitch with a leg broken in 3 places; the latest news of Martin is that he is doing well, out of plaster and without his crutches. We look forward to seeing you back on the pitch. Martin is the proud owner of a football signed by all the Bristol City players, which was presented to him at Charfield School by Andy May. Many thanks to Doug Reeves and Dave Colla for arranging it and to Mr Sreeves for letting us use the school.

Now it's time to get back to work; come and join us if you dare!

Yours in Scouting,
Akela, Audrey Chappell

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I hope you all had a good Christmas and enjoyed the break. I think I can speak for all leaders and helpers in the unit.

Last November Helen Edwards received the Baden Powell Award which was presented to her by the Division Commissioner. Helen invited some of the people who had given her help during her time in the Guides. It was nice to see Mrs B. Cain and Mrs. R. Meek who used to run this unit at Helen's presentation.

Congratulations to Helen on the above and also for being picked (she came out on top) to go on an International Camp. We still don't know where she will be going but there is a good chance that it may be Mexico or Poland. I shall let you know in the next Newsletter. Money raised from the Jumble Sale will go towards the cost of Helen's trip.

Our thanks to everyone who helped sort the jumble in the morning and to all who helped in the afternoon. Also our thanks to all who supported us.

Just before Christmas the girls made Christmas table decorations which they enjoyed. Julie, Mike and myself ended the evening with silver, gold and snow coloured fingers! I hope all you Mums liked them Dad's watch out – your turn next!

On the last Wednesday of the year we had our Christmas Party. As we had stated it could be a pyjama party some of the girls came in nightwear, and very colourful they were!

At the start of this year we took a group of girls to the Hippodrome to see the pantomime with Frank Bruno and Little and Large. Most of us agreed Frank Bruno cannot sing or dance! Little and Large were great and had us all in fits. I would like to thank all the extra adult help that evening. To take 30 girls out on a trip can be very nerve racking – you hope and pray that you have all the girls back on the coach. Everything went well, the girls were all very well behaved and that night I slept well!

Last year 13 girls who took their First Aid Badge all passed, as did the girls who took their Agility Badges.

Lastly, Julie and I would like to clear up a point. The time we give up for Guides for your daughters is voluntary and not paid as a lot of people think. We spend a lot of time working out our various plans. It is not easy to please all of the Guides all of the time!

I would like to wish you all a Happy New Year – a bit late, but never mind!

If your daughter is 10 and would like to join, please give me a ring so that her name can be added to the list.

Mary Westlake
Guide Guider

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Many thanks to all those who helped to collect and also to those of you who gave to the Poppy Appeal last November. The total amount from all the boxes in the village was £300.09 which was a very good effort by all.

Whilst writing for the Newsletter may I tell you that as from now Charfield, Tortworth and Cromhall are an independent area and no longer attached to the Wotton Branch. This does mean that our Charfield Branch can now have the credit for all its Poppy Collections.

If anyone has any queries concerning the Poppy Collection or even feel that come next November they may be able to do some house to house collecting, especially on the new estates, perhaps they could contact me on Falfield 26xxxx.

Marion Smith
Charfield Area Organiser

This branch has been in existence for over 50 years. It is not often we put pen to paper as we like to keep as low a profile as possible. This year unfortunately we have sadly lost four members – Lord Ducie, Stan Mussell, Reg Guard and Morris King. We feel that we have lost friends as well as members.

Our social activities were curtailed last year due to illness, but we hold our usual dances throughout the year and we hope to continue this year, with luck. We also distributed Christmas coal and helped with electricity bills to members and members' widows who were in need. If anyone needs any help, and we have overlooked them, please contact us.

Any person that has had any connection with the Services is welcome to join and swell the ranks. Contact the undersigned or any other Branch member for further information. We hold an annual Remembrance Parade in November and while mentioning this, I would like to thank all the young people who join in the parade. It makes us old ones feel proud to be with them. It also sets an example to those who say there is nothing to do in the village. Why not join them?

Thank you all,
John Poskett

The Foundation Room at Charfield School is available for hire.

For further details please contact Christine Temme – Fafield 26xxxx.

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Shopping by post, or mail order as it is quite often known, is an increasingly used form of buying goods. Whether you buy directly from a catalogue, from a local agent or through a newspaper or magazine, your rights are very much the same.

In fact mail order purchases are subject to the same laws that govern buying in shops. That means that the product you receive must be as they were described in the advert or by the agent; they must perform the task that you bought them for, i.e. kitchen scales must be able to weigh, and they must be of merchantable quality i.e. not faulty. That means that if the goods arrive and are not as they were described or are not what was ordered or are sub-standard then you have the right to your money back. In addition you can get back the money you spent on postage in ordering the goods and sending them back.

There is one situation where you are not as well protected and you should therefore be careful. If you buy directly from a private individual through a classified ad, then you are not protected if the goods are faulty, only if they are not as described.

Your right to return goods that are not faulty, but which you just don't like or which don't fit, will depend on the terms of the agreement of the firm you are dealing with. You should always check this out before ordering so that you are absolutely clear about what they will let you do if you don't like the product. Many mail order traders do operate a system whereby you can return the product and get your money back, but you normally have to return it within a certain number of days and you may have to pay the postage.

If you have difficulties with a particular firm that belongs to a mail order protection scheme you can take the complaint up with them under the terms of the scheme. If not, you will have to consider legal action.

If you have had problems with a mail order firm and wish to check out your rights then go to your local Citizens Advice Bureau. You will find us at the Chipping in the Council Offices on Tuesday mornings 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tel: 0453 84xxxx. Our Stroud Office is open Mon–Fri, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (6 p.m. Tuesdays) and Sat morning 9.30–11.30 Tel: 0453 76xxxx.

LATE NEWS
In mid-March we shall be moving the Wotton office to the Town Hall. Times of opening will remain the same. Details will be posted in the window of the Town Clerk's Office or will be available from the Stroud C.A.B. office.

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At the recent budget meeting of the Parish Council, the following grants were agreed for local organisations and will be paid shortly after the start of the new financial year in April.

Committee of Elderly & Housebound – Luncheon Club	£50.00
Committee of Elderly & Housebound – Hosp. Transport Scheme	40.00
Friendship Club	35.00
1st Woodend Scout Group	45.00
Youth Club	100.00
Congregational Church	50.00
Northavon & Stroud Citizens Advice Bureaux	100.00
Playgroup	40.00
Women's Institute	30.00
Mother & Toddler Group	50.00
Thornbury & District Volunteer Link	15.00

In addition although no figure was agreed, extensive work is being undertaken in the Parish Burial Ground at St James Church and future maintenance will be a continuing financial commitment.

In view of the extensive work being undertaken by the Memorial Hall Committee, the Council agreed to support the new extension with the sum of £9,000 and agreed to commit £1,000 to a major refurbishment of the children's play area in the light of new safety regulations.

The long awaited separate pedestrian footbridge over the railway line is making progress and has reached the planning permission stage. It should be a reality within a year.

Following the public meeting on the possibility of a re-opened station and a rail service, progress has also been made. The County of Avon have agreed to commit a large sum of money to the project and it will not be long before more detailed plans will be available for discussion, rather than the vague proposals which were presented by County Officers. Some concerns have been raised by residents and these have been forwarded to the County Officers dealing with the project.

Mrs Julia O'Connor-Beach has recently been appointed Footpath Warden for the Parish. She has proved herself to be an obvious person to take on the role as she has personally checked every public right of way in the Parish, prepared a detailed report and discussed problems with the various landowners. Putting the rights of way back into good walking order is the first priority, together with signposting and way-marking, with the longer term project of preparing a footpath booklet with maps and descriptions of the walks.

The Parish Councillors were most concerned to see the work which had been carried out on the Tower of St James Church and have written to the Redundant Churches Commission enclosing before and after photographs and commenting about the quality of the workmanship as the limewash is flaking.

Watch the noticeboards for the date of the Annual Parish Meeting which is normally held during April.

Mrs Jenny Hughes
Clerk to the Council

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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

Telephone numbers commencing 26… 29… 31… 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: 2017-01-18.