CHADRA

… that the last edition of the newsletter was not, in fact, the last edition of the newsletter!

… that there are many people in Charfield who care about the newsletter, and came forward to help ensure it continues. For further details, see inside this edition.

… that one of the Brownie packs may have to disband if they cannot find volunteers to help run it.

… that there is a new secretary for the Memorial Hall, but that they have not yet been able to find a volunteer for the essential role of bookings organiser.

… that after 32 in the village Beryl Peters will be moving to Wales, to be nearer her family. (We wish her well for the future.)

… that the Plant Sale raised £1500.

… that Paul Lewis kindly stepped into the role of ‘Lollipop Man’ until the end of term.

… that there will be a new teacher at the Primary School. In September, Corinne Wren joins the staff, and we hope she will be happy in her new role.

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As mentioned on the cover, Julia's heartfelt plea in the last edition did not fall on deaf ears. As a result, several people have joined the team that produces it each quarter, fulfilling vital roles. Many thanks to them, and the existing team members, who make this newsletter possible. The new line-up looks like this:

If contributors prepare their copy on their own PC, you may like to e-mail to Hilary and Geoff at the address above, or alternatively supply it on disk (we can supply and return disks as needed). Could we ask that you save your items in Microsoft Word (.doc) or text (.txt) formats, thank you.

So, we've got the team, we've got a finely honed production system, all we need are the articles to put in the next newsletter. If you have anything to say of local interest, pass it on to Hilary and Geoff at the details above.

Next Copy Date – 12th October 1999

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Well here we are again. Another 3 months have gone by and the scheme still organises as many lifts as normal. Some weeks it is busier than others. Life is a bit easier now though, as we have some new drivers.

From September 1st 1999 I have to inform you that the costings for all journeys will be going up. This is due to increasing petrol prices etc. After all, we don't expect our drivers to be out of pocket when doing a good turn. Hoping that this increase will not stop any of you from using us. I think we will still be cheaper than the taxi. We are here to help you.

Marion Smith (Transport organiser)

Well this is a fine start to impress the lady who has kindly taken on the job of chasing up contributions. Caroline Davies has had to phone twice!!

It's been a bit mad in xx Newtown. Firstly, Ron the builder came to instils a second loo – what a treat – no more queues in the mornings. We're almost as posh as Woodlands Road, as some houses have 3!! Actually Keith and I were celebrating our silver wedding anniversary and people kept asking where we were buzzing off to – I took great delight in saying, “Oh, we're having a new toilet!”

Secondly, the Spanish arrived, well only one lad, to our house. Lawrence is involved in an exchange between KLB and a school in Madrid. Needless to say I've been doing mega cooking this fortnight.

Last week I was tap dancing in a show at Wotton Town Hall. Now there's an experience. All these little tots jigging about fearless and then us five adults waiting in the wings, brains blank, wondering what on earth we've got to do to “I've got rhythm!” My parents are down, too, They had to see their budding Ginger Rodgers so you can see why I've forgotten today's the 12th!

Now what to continue with. Early one morning, Radio 4 reported that no one could gain access to the M18 as a lorry load of fish heads had blocked the slip road. Is it sad when the highlight of your week is getting all your washing dry?

Carrying on my primary school tales. I said to one child, “OK Roger, over and out”. A little girl came up to me and said “Maz, who's Roger?”

Finally, courtesy of Radio 2, a history teacher called in to say that he had just marked the end of term papers. One questions was, “Why was Mary Tudor called Bloody Mary?”. One pupil replied – “Because she was a right old cow!”

Best wishes, Marilyn

The Brownies have been busy this term making yummy dishes such as pizza and strawberry meringues, for their Cooks Badges, stages 1 and 2. We also had a fun time at Wacky Warehouse, a visit to Vale Vets and will be going to Cattle Country soon. Unfortunately that will be my last session with the Brownies. I have enjoyed the last few years as Brown Owl very much, and am sad to leave, but my job as Playgroup Leader requires me to update my training, and work for an NVQ3, which will be my Thursday evenings for 2 years. So far I haven't had much response to my plea for a new leader, there must be someone out there with a few hours to spare, it will be a great shame if the pack has to close. The running of a pack is entirely up to the leader, you don't have to follow a diary or plan of any sort, and it is good fun. If anybody wants any details, please phone me.

Pat (Brown Owl) on 01454 26xxxx

4[Advert for Martin Farrell Garden Design]

[Advert for Greenline Tanks]

[Advert for Eclipse Hair Studio]

The annual general meeting was held on 9th September.

The meeting was poorly attended despite publicity.

The agenda included reports plans for events celebrating the millennium in Charfield such as street and bonfire parties. Projects to mark the millennium include a “snapshot” of Charfield in the year 2000 incorporated in a time capsule, Millennium Stone, Domesday Book and Parish Map. A competition was suggested for photographers to help illustrate the Domesday Book and place in the time capsule.

The meeting heard that one of the projects undertaken by the committee initially has been overtaken by discussions between the relevant councils and Renishaw on a footpath/cycleway towards Wotton.

Other ideas put forward included planting in village verges to brighten up dull millennium spring mornings!

Following the resignation of John Acton as Chairman of the Millennium Committee Carol Parton was elected as Chair. Julia O'Connor-Beech valiantly continued her role as Secretary and Graham Parton was elected as Treasurer.

The committee would like to record its appreciation of John Acton's hard work as Chairman and me pleased that he is able to continue as a member of the committee. Our new chair also wishes to thank all members or the committee for their hard work en the Millennium Projects and is looking forward to another productive year and invites any person wishing to help Charfield celebrate the Millennium to contact her on 01454 26xxxx.

The next meeting of the Millennium Committee will be on 11th November 1998 at 8.00pm at Charfield Primary School.

5[Advert for Falcon Cottage B&B]

It would be nice to report that since the April edition of CHADRA that a secretary has been found, and the membership has increased by 50% – but it would only be a dream. My plea however, has not been totally fruitless – I have had one gentleman ask for a membership application form!

In April, David Millman, carried the branch standard at the annual ANZAC day parade, and was accompanied by two branch members. Whilst our Charfield Branch does not have its own H.Q. or Club, Wotton RBL Club encourages our members to join their club. If you want more information about the RBL please contact me on 01454 26xxxx

Dennis Booth

[Advert for Alan Hamer driving]

Looking back through the diary for the Summer term, it is no surprise that both children and staff are mentally and physically exhausted!

Although a long term, it was by no means a normal one. A number of additional events and issues presented challenges that demanded even more than can be reasonably expected during this traditionally busy time of year.

The setting up of after-school clubs for Chess, Art and Line Dancing has proved very popular among children and staff alike, giving as it does the opportunity for those involved to enjoy each others company in a more relaxed and informal setting. Could it be that there are members of the wider community out there who have particular skills or talents, which they might enjoy sharing with children? We would be pleased to hear from you!

World Book Day in April was extended in school to become a Book Week during which a display of recent publications, plus some traditional favourites, was well supported. Mike Dickinson, a children's author and illustrator, conducted workshops with all our children, reading from his books, explaining the process from an idea to publication and delighting everyone with his cartoons and illustrations. World Book Day itself again brought the week to a suitable climax with children and staff dressing as characters from favourite books.

A morning of workshops presented by Howard Coggins, an actor from Bristol Old Vic, provided two upper Junior classes with an insight to the history of theatre, in particular Greek Theatre related to class topics on Ancient Greeks. Masks were provided to bring about the feel of Greek Theatre as children devised and performed short plays on given story lines.

Class Trips are a customary feature of Summer, enjoyed by everyone. Animals 6usually form the focus for younger children and this year was no exception with visits to Willsbridge Mill and Folly Farm near Bristol and the Birds of Prey Centre at Newent. London was the destination for older children. One class visited the National Portrait Gallery and Houses of Parliament (including the Public Gallery in the House of Commons) whilst two classes visited Broadcasting House for the BBC Experience – an opportunity for children to work in real studios and come away with recordings of their efforts. Walks round Charfield are also of value, adding to children's knowledge of their locality.

So, what of the additional events and issues? At long last, we have found an new ‘Lollipop Man’ in the shape of Mr Paul Lewis – one of our dads – at least until the end of term. Following Rev. Pestell's noble stint as stand in, there was a great deal of anxiety surrounding the lack of supervision for all those who cross Wotton Road.

With an increase in the number of four-year-olds starting school in September and the need to keep Infant class numbers to thirty or below to comply with new Government regulations, an additional Infant class was deemed necessary. Following the advertising and interviewing process, Mrs Corinne Wren will be joining the staff in September.

September also sees our second Ofsted Inspection – just three weeks into the new term. Due to the timing of this inspection, most of the preparation had to take place by the end of June when the Lead Inspector made her initial visit to collect mountains of paperwork and meet with parents, staff and governors.

What with tests, report writing, sports, three classes moving rooms, training for the Numeracy Strategy, Home/School Agreements, re-constituting the Governing Body, etc. etc., I'm not sure we have time for a holiday!

Frank Sreeves, Headteacher

[Advert for Bradley Garage]

[Advert for Deborah Jayne Pringle]

Our AGM took place in may and we were able to meet our new beat manager PC Roger Jones. We welcome him to the village and hope he will be able to stay and look after us for a number of years. He previously covered the Winterbourne area. He is keen to get to know our village and to meet with people involved with the various activities that go on in the village.

There have been a small number of burglaries in the village over the last few months, but even general details are not being given by the Crime Prevention 7Department to NW co-ordinators as there is still no “volunteer” to send out information.

PC Jones has asked for information about a red Ford Escort van, which may be associated with thefts from stables and burglaries in the Cromhall area.

Generally, though, please be aware of people offering to tarmac drives. They very rarely do a good job and they often use the time sussing out the surroundings! Distraction burglaries are also of great concern. Never let anyone into your house. Genuine utility people always carry ID's. Don't be fooled by “could they just have a glass of water” or “they just need to check something”. There is usually an accomplice around the corner waiting to slip in while you are not looking.

Also, please make sure you keep all valuables, tools etc. postcoded. If you use an ultra violet pen you must redo everything at least once a year.

Finally, if you're off on your hols, cancel milk and papers and try and get a neighbour to pop in to make it not totally obvious that the house is empty.

llze Hicks

PS. PC Jones said that there are some interesting videos that we could show at our meetings. There is one about the work of the people helicopter, which sounds very interesting!

The Francksen family recently acquired a new ‘all singing all dancing’ PC and we have all had great fun learning our way around it and exploiting its potential. It quickly became apparent which of us were where in the ability order; John (largely through work and a head start of about three years) is our resident expert, although whenever there is a real problem he is away on business of course!!! Elizabeth sorts out my difficulties and keeps an eye on her three year old brother, Andrew who is in turn gaining in skill. I felt a failure as a mother when I couldn't help Elizabeth gain some information one evening and it really is unsatisfactory to phone John in Denmark and waste precious minutes talking me through a system!!! So, the upshot of all this was that I signed up for a two-day computer course in Bristol (during the hottest days so far this year!).

I really enjoyed it and learned loads but my brain felt as though it would burst and I lay awake at 3 a.m. thinking the following … I remember when …

• Windows were something you opened
• A mouse was a furry thing in a cage
• Online was where you hung your washing
• Microsoft was a term used to describe fabric conditioners
• Cut and Paste was an activity to do with the children on a wet afternoon
• A hard drive was a long way in a clapped out mini
• A Cursor was a person who blasphemed
• An icon was a real life hero (or heroine!)
• Multitasking was done by most women all the time
• A web was where a spider lived
• Surfing was done by people standing up in the sea
• The net was for catching tiddlers in
• And “Eee, mail!” was what my father (a true Yorkshireman) said when he saw letters on the mat!

Tracy Francksen

[Advert for Martingales]

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Puzzle Page

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As the great GM debate rages I feel increasingly pleased that I can grow so many of our own vegetables. It seems a great privilege to have the space to do this but with some ingenuity I think an awful lot of gardeners could find room to grow some things – even if it's no more than a few lettuce plants and runner beans. My friend Jean in Kingswood can prove this. In her small garden her veg plot is minuscule – probably no more than 4 × 6 feet – and it's full of all sorts of good things. And it blends in very happily with every thing else. I've recently been to the Gardeners World exhibition at the NEC (which I enjoyed more than I expected to) but, although I didn't get to see it all, was surprised not to see more emphasis on vegetable growing. But enough of that – back to the main business – cooking.

Young broad beans and peas are at their best now and if you want a simple recipe that is quick to cook and tastes wonderful – and you eat cream – this first one should fit the bill. It is versatile. You can use any vegetable you think would be nice – or a mixture. Broccoli divided into little sprigs and blanched for a second or two, asparagus sliced into smallish pieces, very young turnips or carrots. All would work, but which ever you choose make sure you don't overcook. (Although I know there is some research that is telling us now that overboiled vegetables are better for us than raw, it's very likely it will just be a matter of time before they tell us their findings were flawed. Or, to put it bluntly, I think it is codswallop! I'm sure I'm not alone in feeling quite bemused with the almost weekly ‘scientific findings’ that prove to be contradicted within a very short time. But whatever the truth of the matter I will still opt for ‘just cooked’ – neither under or overdone).

You can use whatever pasta takes your fancy but tagliatelle works well because it gets nicely coated with the sauce and doesn't get too sloppy. As with most of my recipes quantities are not critical.

Tagliatelle with vegetables and herbs – for 3/4 depending on hunger levels

1lb (500g) young peas or broad beans, blanched for 1 minute, drained and refreshed under cold running water. If the beans are not so young just pop them out of their tough outer coats after draining – a bit laborious but well worth doing.
8 fl ozs (250 ml) double cream
4 garlic cloves, peeled
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 oz (50g) butter
4 tablespoons mixed herbs – parsley, mint, basil, oregano. If you want to include rosemary, thyme, sage – the more pungent herbs – do so with care.
9 ozs (250g) tagliatelle
4 ozs Parmesan cheese – freshly grated – much, much nicer than ready grated.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Put three whole garlic cloves into the cream and bring to the boil in a large saucepan. Simmer very gently for about 10 mins until the garlic cloves are soft and the cream is well flavoured. Remove from the heat and discard the garlic.

Chop the remaining garlic clove finely, heat the butter and oil in another saucepan and fry till lightly coloured. Add the herbs and chosen vegetables, stir them round to get coated with the butter/oil mixture, then add the garlic cream. Bring to the boil and simmer very gently for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens a little.* Add about half of the Parmesan and salt and pepper to taste.

Cook the pasta according to the instructions, drain well and add to the sauce.

Serve with the remaining Parmesan.

* If the sauce looks a little oily add a tablespoon or so of warm water and stir gently. This works for mayonnaise, hollandaise, French dressing and many other hot or cold oil/cream/egg/butter sauces if they look like splitting.

By the time you are reading this the elderflowers may well be over but as the newsletter never coincides with them being 10in full flower I decided to write about them anyway and hope that you might want to put this away ready for next years crop. This year the flowers seem to have been better than ever and I've made several batches of elderflower cordial which can be used in all sorts of ways – the simplest of which, of course, is with water as a delicious summer drink. Or with fizzy water, or gin and fizzy water. It makes a wonderfully refreshing sorbet, a good sauce for ice-cream, does something special for gooseberries in pies and crumbles and gives a lift if you add a couple of spoonfuls to a fruit salad. You can, of course, do all of these things with a bottle of cordial you buy from a shop, but it doesn't match the pleasure of making your own with flowers picked from the hedgerows (well away from any major roads or crop spraying). Pick on a dry day, choose ones that are in full flower and not beginning to go brown, and shake gently to remove any insects. I never wash them. If you make sure that the bottles you use are very clean it should last for several months or if you have room it can be stored in the freezer – in which case leave room in the bottle for expansion.

Elderflower Cordial

25 large heads of elderflowers
2 lbs (1.8 kg) granulated sugar
1 litre water
75g citric acid (from chemists)
2 lemons – unwaxed if possible

Put the elderflowers in a large bowl. In a large saucepan, mix the sugar and water, bring to the boil, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Pour over the flowers and stir in the citric acid and the lemons, sliced. Cover and leave for 24 hours, stirring occasionally. Strain through butter muslin and bottle. Store in a cool, dry place.

Not difficult, is it? Elderflower fritters are good, too. Again the flowers need to be clean, dry and insect free. Cut the stalks down to about ½″ and allow 2–3 per person. Use any light batter recipe (with beaten egg white), dip the flowers in the batter holding the stalks and fry in either clarified butter or sunflower oil, that you have heated in a large frying pan to a depth of about ¼″. When crisp, lift out, drain and serve straight away sprinkled with sugar.

There is something very special about eating flowers and we probably could use far more than we do. Perhaps one day I'll do some research on the subject but for the moment I shall settle for nasturtiums and chives with salads and maybe rose petal jam if the greenfly stay away.

Barbara Adams 01454 26xxxx

[Advert for Cotswold Edge Carpets]

August 20th and September 17th

Those donors who have attended the last couple of sessions will have been asked to fill in a form when you first arrive instead of the usual request to read the leaflets. The staff say this is not just to occupy your time whilst you wait but actually gives them much more accurate and useful feedback and enables processing to be speeded up. The biggest problem I've found with it is 11the number of people who haven't brought along their reading glasses. Maybe they could add a reminder about that on the call up letters. We were a little down on numbers last time so if you are not on holiday, been called, or want to start, and can spare the time to come along we will really be most grateful. The September session is the last one in the hall for this year, although the Bloodmobile (their mobile unit) will probably come to the car park during the Christmas/New Year holiday.

Barbara Adams

You may or may not be aware that Charfield has a new beat officer – or beat manager, to use the new terminology! As I have filled this post I thought it worthwhile letting you know through this column, of recent changes, in the policing of this district, and also make you aware of recent Police related issues in the locality.

As of 1st April 1999 all Police beats in the South Gloucestershire area became aligned with the electoral wards; thus Charfield has been reinstated as a beat with its own beat officer, who also has responsibility for the neighbouring communities of Cromhall, Tortworth, Tytherington, and Itchington.

This should be to the benefit of Charfield, which immediately previous to this comprised part of a much larger beat extending from Itchington to Marshfield.

The other change is that Charfield now comes under the auspices of Thornbury Police Station and is patrolled from Thornbury, rather than Chipping Sodbury as before.

I took on the Charfield beat at the time of these changes and prior to that have accumulated fifteen years experience in the Police, having worked in such diverse areas as Teeside and South Gloucestershire; my last beat being Winterbourne.

Anyway, since commencing on the Charfield beat I have tried to maintain a high profile, frequently patrolling in the car and occasionally, when time permits, on foot. I can only hope that this has been noticed!

I have also visited most of the local schools and have tried to address some of the local issues which have been brought to my attention; for instance by conducting regular speed checks on the Wotton Road, and also dealing with several of the young motorcyclists locally who ride around without licenses, insurance, MOT's or even crash helmets!

Although crime generally has remained low in the locality we can all help to reduce it further by keeping our eyes and ears open.

In respect of this I would welcome any information regarding a man described below, who was seen in the vicinity of a burglary in Cromhall.

He is a white male in his twenties or thirties, of tall, slim build, with short dark hair and wearing a black sweatshirt, grey jogging trousers and white training shoes. Of particular note was his bandaged left hand.

Also of interest to us is a faded red Ford Escort van registration F897KVL, and with the word ‘TIMBERCARE’ (or similar) on the sides in plain white capitals. This vehicle has been seen locally in suspicious circumstances on a couple of occasions.

Although I'm not aware of any in the Charfield vicinity yet, the district of Thornbury has suffered a number of distraction burglaries recently. These are generally directed against the elderly and in view of this I can't emphasise enough that the identity of all callers should be thoroughly checked and nobody should ever be allowed to enter your home, or 12even engage you in conversation at your door, until the reason for calling is definitely confirmed. Also, remember to keep the door chain on at all times if fitted.

Finally if you see any people or vehicles who appear to be acting suspiciously or strangely, let us know immediately. We'd much rather attend a false call than risk a crime occurring.

That's all for now.

PC 3799 Roger Jones
Thornbury Police Station

By the time you read this, Toddler's term will have ended with our annual Teddy Bears' Picnic on 22nd July – at the moment I've got my fingers firmly crossed that the sun will shine on us so that this year we may actually succeed in having a picnic outside!

The summer term saw the addition of Tracy Trevelyan, Marion Boxall, Lynne Honeybourne, Sue Pestell and Liane Cope to the committee and very welcome they are, especially as a number of the current committee are pregnant – I hope it's not something in the tea?

The committee would like to say a big thank you to Renishaw, SNFA Bearings, and MJ Fews for their generous donations. With the money donated we have purchased a large wooden train set which the children have been delighted with. We have also been able to buy a couple of colourful bean bags for those rare moments when our little ones want to have a quiet sit down to read a book.

Toddlers restarts on 9th September and is held in the Memorial Hall each Thursday during term time between 10 and 11.30 a.m. We have a wide range of toys and activities for children aged from 0–3 years, including ride-on tractor, bikes, pop-up tents, train set, books, puzzles and playdough. Refreshments are provided for both children and adults and each session is rounded off with some singing. Your first visit is free, so come along and find out.

Sarah Edwards, Secretary

I have not put pen to paper in recent months so I am glad to be back. Table is thriving in Wotton and we came to the end of an eventful year in April. My chosen charity as Chairman last year was Children's Wish, which is a Round Table supported charity which specialises in granting last wishes to terminally ill children. At our last dinner meeting before our AGM and Handover I was delighted to present a cheque for nearly £2000 to Tabler Andy Hollyoake, who was due to run the London Marathon for Children's Wish in about two weeks time.

I was inspired to try to carry on the good work with this very worthy charity and so, in a moment of madness at our recent National Conference in Manchester, signed up to run in next year's London Marathon on 16th April 2000! I am in the process of raising £800+ of sponsorship and would greatly appreciate any donations. You may see me running around the village on one of my training runs! Even though I am no longer in the Chair and consigned to the backbenches I am willing to haul my body around a 26.2-mile course for the cause and have offered my services as a co-ordinator at Area level.

As well as enjoying a lot of fun and fellowship we have organised summer barbecues at the Star in Wotton, taken part in the Gloucestershire bike ride, run a Duck Race on the stream through Wotton, held a Race Night with a difference at the Civic Centre and had a dry Bonfire Night (for once!) to raise the funds.

We used some of these funds to purchase a much-needed nebuliser for a local lady, 13and supported a local boy for Operation Raleigh. As well as fund-raising we have concentrated on having a really interesting programme to end last year and carry on into this year. This year's Chairman is Richard Trickey who is another Charfield resident, so if you have any requests please approach him or myself. This year's meetings have included a comedy impressionist, an evening bike ride, 3 club golf and paintballing and we have a lot of fun so if you are interested in coming along as a guest, please contact me.

Plans are in place for our hosting of the 74 Club European Meeting on 1–4 June 2000 where up to 150 visitors will descend on the area for a social weekend and business meeting on the Saturday.

Time to sign off now and get my running shoes on again.

John Francksen

[Advert for Charfield Post office]

This year's plant sale was even more successful than ever. Thanks to the efforts of so many growers, we had more choice to offer. The total takings came to about £1500 and even allowing for increased costs, this meant a good sum towards the upkeep of your Parish Church.

Many thanks to all who helped to make this a good day. We value your participation, whether in growing, carrying, selling or buying. We know that many of you wait for our sale each year, some come from many miles away. We hope you are happy with your purchases, and we will do our best to grow good plants again next year.

You may have noticed a few extra plants on sale recently. The money collected from the sale of these is to help pay for the new altar cloths which should beautify the Church in the new century. The Green frontal with the Eagle representing our patron, Saint John the Evangelist, will soon be in use and the purple and green sets should be in use next year. Thank you all for your support.

Kate Ramsay

Last time round I wrote a pretty up-beat report. This time, I find that vandalism has again reared its ugly head.

Wanton, wilful, selfish action which at its least creates additional work and unforced expenditure for those running the village hall – at its worst leads me to think ‘Why bother! Let the selfish minority wreck the hall, I'll stay at home and sod the world’!

Don't worry, though, those of us who do care will continue to take the first course of action, despite the appeal of the latter.

What puzzles me most about the, apparently, brain dead individuals who choose to wreak havoc is that they invariably do their worst during the hours of darkness before skulking off again. Were it me, I would want to boast to the world ‘Look at what I have done, I've stuffed the system again, come and worship at my feet.’

May I dare to issue a challenge? Would any of the perpetrators of vandalism or, indeed, anyone who condones it care to 14contact me, I'll gladly share a pint with you, listen to what you have to say and see if, together, we can address your grievance towards the world. Try to come out from the night, it's actually quite pleasant in daylight.

Finally, to round off, my sincere thanks to Jenny Cobb who has joined us as Minutes Secretary; also to John Barnett who efficiently covered this role for 10 months, in addition to all his other activities.

At the date of writing, we still seek a replacement for Ann Thomas as Hall Bookings Secretary – give Ann a ring on 01454 26xxxx or me 01454 26xxxx.

Enjoy your summer, everyone

Allan Hughes

Spring is when a young man's thoughts turn to …, well best not go into that because here we are at the beginning of July and preparation has begun for the next football season. Training started on the playing field, Wednesday evenings at 7.30 p.m. and will continue until September when we move to Brimsham Green outdoor complex. All are welcome, so if anyone is interested please come along and join in the fun.

After a rather hectic April, and the fixture pile-up caused mainly by a successful run in the county cup safely negotiated, our annual dinner dance was held at Newport Towers – and an excellent time was had by all. Our AGM was held at the end of May and was quite well attended, the elected committee remained pretty much the same as last season, though we now have several new co-opted members who volunteered to help out. The committee has now appointed new managers for the coming season. The 1st team manager will be Dave Hemmings who will be assisted by Tim Brockwell and Pete Walker and Chris Buckley will be in charge of the second team.

After some encouraging performances last season we are looking forward to what will hopefully be a successful season for Charfield Football Club.

Chris Somerton, Secretary

Some CHADRA readers might remember a few months ago I came round knocking on doors for sponsorship for my bike ride in the High Atlas Mountains in aid of the Children's Society.

Everyone was very generous and encouraging and, with the aid of a few local businesses and some fund-raising, I managed to make the total. So, on the 24th April I set off for Heathrow Airport to meet my fellow bikers. After a connection flight from Casablanca we arrived at Marrakech airport, where it was still warm even though it was 1 o'clock in the morning.

After a few hours sleep we set off for the Atlas Mountains. It took us 5 hours to get to our start point and it had to be one of the scariest journeys of my life, and as a reminder to us of how dangerous these roads were we saw a coach on the side of the road which had been converted to a soft top, via a cliff.

When we stopped and got out of our cramped mini bus it hit us how hot this place really was and pretty soon we were all slapping on the sun cream and looking for shade.

After we had had some food, (cheese, ham, bread and an orange, a diet we all pretty soon got used to) our bikes were handed out. Unfortunately most of the bikes had punctures which proved to be a bit of an omen, as by the end of the ride I had managed to get 4 punctures, break my rear derailer, my back wheel and a few of the cables needed replacing too.

15Anyway, as soon as we started the ride we all pretty soon got into groups of people at our own level and quite soon the field got pretty spread out as the ages of people ranged from 18 to 85, myself being 19.

Our first days ride was only abut 20km, longest day being 60km with a 17km hill chucked in for good measure! The total distance of our ride was 274km, with 4 days full riding and 2 half days. All along the ride there was absolutely stunning scenery which was constantly changing, one moment you were faced with ice capped mountains and the next minute you were in a barren desert.

There were 42 people on the ride and in total we managed to raise £85,000 for the Children's Society.

My thanks to everyone, especially my Scout group who put the money up front and made this amazing experience possible for me.

James Davies

Update on planting plans:-
A licence has been applied for from South Gloucestershire Council to plant along the verges. Areas to be avoided have also been discussed with them. Planting plans have been modified to maintain the verges up Charfield Hill as wild native vegetation. Gradual replacement of nettles with Foxgloves and other wild flowers and thinning the brambles to introduce Dog roses and Honeysuckle should make a more welcoming approach to Charfield.

Work should commence during this autumn and any help, however little will be greatly appreciated. The Leyhill Prison working party may be able to help us, but are fully booked until spring 2000. I hope we will at least have some flowers to admire by then. If anyone has any surplus small Foxglove plants in their garden which could be planted out ready to flower next year I would be most grateful – I had overlooked the fact that seeds from this year won't flower until 2001. Still, ‘learning all the time’ (as Benny Hill used to say) and it is an ongoing enterprise for more than Millennium Year.

Judy Drinkwater

[Advert for Connected Consultants]

[Advert for Sucre]

16

Puzzle Page Answers

17

Well here we are again, another summer upon us and as usual not much sunshine. We've almost reached the end of another year at playgroup. A lot of children will be leaving us to start school in September and to all those we wish them well.

Due to the fact we are losing so many children to school, this year being an exceptionally high intake, it has been decided that on Mondays and Fridays playgroup will be closed when we go back in September. Of course as soon as the demand requires it, these sessions will be re-opened. Please contact the leaders or any committee member for further details.

At the end of March, Ofsted inspected playgroup for the very first time. I know Sally and Sue spent many hours ensuring the paperwork and preparation was all completed. We are now in receipt of the actual inspection report, which is excellent. Everyone's hard work has paid off and the committee would like to say a big thank you to Sally and Sue, because of course without them we couldn't have done it. So thanks Sally and Sue and enjoy the summer hols, but don't forget to come back in September!

Our trip this year was a bit different to previous playgroup outings. We decided to hold this on a Sunday so that the whole family would be able to come. We visited Cattle Country and for once the weather was absolutely scorching. A good time was had by all, although some of us had a few bruises after going down the slide so many times!

Before half term, we ran a sponsored treasure hunt for the children, this was well supported and raised £260. Congratulations to William Fuller who raised the highest amount of money.

Well done Brian and Ruth Whittaker who did a 25 mile sponsored bike ride around the Gloucester area. They raised over £180 in sponsor money. Hopefully their legs will have recovered sufficiently to do a repeat ride next year?

We would also like to thank the landlord of the Pear Tree for allowing us to hold our monthly meetings there. What an excellent place to hold a committee meeting!

A very important note for your diaries is our AGM on Wednesday 15th September at 7.30 p.m. at playgroup. Come along, enjoy a glass of wine and help your playgroup too.

With our sincere thanks to you all for your continued support.

Judith Watkins, Secretary

Do you ever find yourself looking for ideas for places to take the kids, and things to do? I thought it would be a good idea to capture any recommendations on these pages, so if you've found something of interest, don't keep it to yourself, share it with the rest of the village. Here are a couple for starters:

Somewhere to take the kids
Bristol Industrial Museum (Princes Wharf, Wapping Road, Bristol)
Four exhibitions on Printing, Flight (including a life-size nose cone of Concorde), Bristol Harbour and Road Transport. Many of the exhibits can be climbed on, and in holidays children will often be given the chance to take part, by printing cards, etc. All this, and it's free to get in!

Favourite Web sites:

www.thisisgloucestershire.co.uk
A source of information on the county, including local walks, cinema and entertainment listings, and details and timings for the Severn bore.

18www.weatherpost.com
Want a five-day weather forecast? This site from the Washington Post enables you to put in the name of any city anywhere in the world, and see the weather. For days out in this country, or to check out that holiday destination, this is a handy one to know.

Geoff Wignall

Minister: Rev. Philip Hopes
Tel: 01453 84xxxx
Sunday School Sunday 11am
Family Service 1st Sunday of each month 11a.m.
Evening Worship 6p.m.
Ladies Bright Hour Alternate Tuesdays 2.30p.m.
Bible Study and Prayer meeting Friday 6:45p.m.
Group practice 7:30p.m.
Harvest Thanksgiving Services. October 3rd Family Service 11a.m. Evening Service 6p.m.
*Please note there will be no 6p.m. Service on September 26th as we shall be joining our friends at Ebley for their Harvest Thanksgiving Service

Some years ago an atheist lecturer was travelling up and down the country pouring out his words against the very thought of God, and heaping ridicule on all those he deemed foolish enough to believe in God and in the Bible as the Word of God.

On one occasion he addressed a group gathered in a large hall in which his eloquence stirred them to a high pitch. Proudly considering himself master of the situation, he hurled a challenge to Almighty God to reveal Himself by smiting him to death. When nothing happened, he exclaimed, ‘See there is no God!’.

Thereupon a little peasant woman rose to her feet and addressed the lecturer: ‘Sir, I cannot answer your arguments: your learning is beyond me. You are an educated man while I am only a peasant woman. With your superior intelligence will you answer me one question?’

‘I have been a believer in Christ for many years, rejoicing in His salvation and enjoying reading my Bible. His comfort has brought me immense happiness. If when I come to die I learn that there is no God, that the Bible is not true, and that there is no salvation or heaven, what have I lost through believing in the Lord Jesus Christ during this life?’

The room was very still as the audience now quickly grasped the logic of the woman's question. The atheist to whom the audience now turned, answered quietly, ‘Madam. you will not stand to lose a thing.’

The peasant woman spoke again, ‘Sir, you have been kind enough to answer my question. Permit me to ask another. If, when it comes your turn to die, you discover the Bible is true, that there is a God and Jesus is His Son, and that there is a heaven and a hell, what, sir, will you stand to lose?’

The logic was so overwhelming that the crowd leaped to its feet and shouted; but the atheist was silent. He had no answer. Prov. 27:12.

Rev. Philip Hopes

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We have nearly finished our third year and the unit seems to be going from strength to strength. We lost Amber (Jane Smith) at Easter but she has been replaced by Pearl (Kathryn Schofield) and the girls seem to be enjoying the different challenges.

This term we had a great time at the Fun Hire, a very informative session at St. John's church thanks to Rev. Robert Pestell. Our final session is at Watsome Farm where the 2 Rainbow units will join us for ‘Mini Olympics’ plus tea and a bouncy castle.

We still have a waiting list but please let us know if your daughter wants to join. We restart on Monday September 13th at 4–5 pm in the village hall.

Judith Wenman (Sapphire)

Five months to go and we'll wonder what the fuss was all about, but in Charfield there will still be events to attend and organise.

The Domesday Book is moving on apace (watch this space to reserve a copy of this limited edition of village life).

The year so far has been very busy for the 2nd Charfield Brownies and myself. We had our annual ‘pack holiday’ in May at Campwood House in Macaroni Woods near Cirencester. Our theme for that weekend was ‘Winnie the Pooh’ and each brownie went home with lots of craft and, I hope, lots of happy memories. Our pack holidays are always full of fun, laughter, and not much sleep!

I have planned to take the six eldest brownies from the pack on the annual district pack holiday, which I believe has been booked for September. This will also be fun, but the brownies will get the opportunity to make friends with other brownies from the other packs in the district.

At the end of June I organised a trip to Weston-Super-Mare on a train (paid for out of funds). As many children these days do not have the opportunity to ride on a train it was quite exciting for them. We visited the Sea Life Centre, where we were given a very interesting talk and tour by one of the employees. We were even allowed to touch some of the creatures e.g. a sea slug, crabs, and rays. We visited the shop, where the brownies spent some of their pocket money. The remainder of their money they' spent on ‘donkey rides’, ‘trampolines’ and ‘ice creams’! (Money seems to burn holes in their pockets, so they like to spend every last penny!) We had a sandcastle building competition, which was judged by some innocent passers-by, who were very thorough in their judging.

As a pack we have also been working on the ‘safety in the home’ badge, the ‘agility’ badge and the ‘walking stage 1’ badge. Several walks have already been completed and we will be walking up to North Nibley very soon.

At the Charfield Summer Fayre this year, we will be designing the posters. The best designs will get a prize. We will also be organising the ‘Cake Stall’ for which I would like to thank all my brownie's parents very much.

Now to the serious part. Charfield is in desperate need of someone to organise and run the other brownie pack. Due to work/college commitments 1st Charfield Brownie Pack will close at the end of July unless someone is prepared to come forward. I know, I can hear you all saying ‘but I work full time, I've got a home to run and I've got a family’. SO HAVE I!! I personally get a lot of enjoyment out of doing what I do, and I am sure there is someone in Charfield who could help with this problem. If this post is not filled, there will be a lot of disappointed little girls in Charfield, in September.

Finally, I would like to thank Pat Loveridge (1st Charfield Brownies) and to wish her well in her career. And to thank everyone who helps me, for their continued support and if there are any little girls who would like to join Brownies on a Wednesday evening or have their names put on the waiting list, please give me a call.

Trish Cole, Brown Owl

[Advert for Tree Top Carpets]

21

We welcome everyone to DAB HANDS, a fun activity morning at Charfield Memorial Hall. We cater for children 0–5 years accompanied by parent/carer. Open 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Mondays during term time. In the summer holidays older children are welcome as well.

The dates this summer are:
29th July 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
12th August 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
19th August 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
26th August 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

We have paint, glue, playdough, crayons, jigsaws, toys and lots more. Beat the boredom of the holidays and give yourselves and the children somewhere to go.

£1.50 per session plus 25p for over 5's.

Some of the childminders are now involved in training for Developing Childminding Practice (Family Day Care) stage 1. Some have already completed the course. We are now recognisable by our new sweatshirts, so stop and chat if you require any information. We have vacancies at present, so if you are in need of childcare we will try to accommodate you.

During September notices will be given out with information about the photographer. For further details please contact Lin Scanlon 01454 26xxxx.

… to hear that loud music, shouting and fireworks on Saturday evening (10th July) after midnight. They may be a big company, but thinking about other people and letting them know would have been nice.

We had a visitor of our own, it would have been nice to sit in our garden with on a nice sunny evening

Betty and Frank Groves

… Note from Geoff and Hilary:

We would add to Batty and Frank's comments that we would advocate consultation rather than confrontation and ask any party organisers to take note of the sentiments expressed.

If the organisers would like to respond in the next edition we will happily consider their reply for inclusion

The world according to student bloopers:

… The Ancient World

Pharaoh forced the Hebrew slaves to make bread without straw. Moses led them to the Red Sea where they made unleavened bread, which is the bread made without any ingredients. Afterwards, Moses went up on Mount Cyanide to get the ten Commandments. David was a Hebrew King skilled at playing the liar. He fought the Philatelists, a race of people who lived in Biblical times. Solomon, one of David's sons, had 500 wives and 500 porcupines.

… Medieval history

Then came the Middle Ages. King Alfred conquered the Dames. King Arthur lived in the age of Shivery King Harold mustarded his troops before the Battle of Hastings. Joan of Arc was cannonized by George Bernard Shaw. The victims of the Black Death grew boobs on their necks. The Magna Carta provided that no free man should be hanged twice for the same offence.

In midevil times most of the people were alliterate. The greatest writer of the time was Chaucer who wrote many poems and verse and also wrote literature. Another tale tells of William Tell who shot an arrow through an apple whilst standing on his son's head.

22

Photo competition for the

Charfield Domesday Book

[Graphic: Camera]

How would you like your photograph to be in the Domesday Book?

You never know, it might be around in another 1000 years! All you have to do is to enter the Charfield Millennium Committee competition! The competition will be judged by the Wotton Gazette photographer and 4 categories of winning photographs will be picked for each of three age groups.

Entering is easy. Make sure your photograph is taken within the parish boundaries of Charfield between March 1st 1999 and March 1st 2000. Send the original photograph, entry form below and 50p entry fee to:

Charfield Millennium Photo Competition, x Hawthorn Close, Charfield, GL 12 8TX, or call 01454 26xxxx for additional information.

Your name:

Your Address:

Tel:

Post Code:

Category (Please Tick ONE Only)
Charfield at Work _
Charfield at Play _
Charfield at Home _
Charfield through the Seasons _

Age Group (please Tick ONE Only)
Up to 10 _
10 to 18 _
Over 18 _

[Graphic: Clocks]

Time is running out!

23

Please make use of this Diary. Either telephone or drop a note of any additions or modifications to Geoff or Hilary Wignall (01454-26xxxx, x Berkeley Close, or xxxx @ Breathemail.net)

KLB = Katharine Lady Berkeley School
MH = Memorial hall
FR = Foundation Room, Primary School
SL = Sportsman's lounge, Memorial hall

Why not put this on your fridge door or notice board?

24

If you wish to alter the entries below, please telephone Geoff or Hilary on 01454 26xxxx

British Legion
John Poskett (Spokesman) 01454-26xxxx

CHADRA
Joyce Hacker 01453-84xxxx

Charfield Primary School
C F Sreeves (Headteacher) 01454-26xxxx

Childminders
Lin Scanlon 01454 26xxxx

Church – Congregational
Rev Philip Hopes 01453 84xxxx

Church – St John's
Rev Robert Pestell 01454 26xxxx

Council – Charfield Parish
Catherine Holmes (Clerk) 01453-84xxxx

Council – South Gloucestershire
Eddie Gadsby (Councillor) 01454-26xxxx

Cricket Club
Diane Bradley 01453-84xxxx

Crimestoppers 0800 555 111

Football Club – Juniors
Martyn Hill 01453 84xxxx

Football Club – Seniors
Chris Somerton (Secretary) 01454 26xxxx

Friendship Club
Mrs M Ealey 01454 29xxxx

Luncheon Club for the Elderly
Jane Higgins 01454 26xxxx

Memorial Hall
Anne Thomas (bookings) 01454 26xxxx

Millennium Committee
Carol Parton 01454 26xxxx

Mother & Toddler Group
Sarah Edwards 01454 26xxxx

Neighbourhood Watch
Ilze Hicks 01454 26xxxx