CHADRA

Knightstone Housing Association is a registered social landlord and we manage and develop affordable homes.

We've provided social housing services in the south west for over 35 years and we manage over 11,000 homes and deliver services to 23,000 tenants and homeowners. You can find more information on our website: www.knightstone.co.uk

We've begun work to build five new affordable houses in the village of Charfield, where we're working with Gloucester-based Markey Construction to develop four new houses for affordable rent and one home for social rent, to meet increasing demand for affordable rural housing.

Completion of the homes is planned for March next year and we're looking forward to welcoming new residents into the homes and to delivering services to them.

Tributes to Viv Kerner and Mr Paul Birt

An introduction to Rev'd Chris Mason

Remembrance Sunday events

Information on Grants available to community groups from South Gloucestershire Council

Lots of news from your local groups and organisations

Diary dates for your Autumn and the Christmas Season.

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Next Copy Date – 6 January 2013

If you would like to write an article for the next issue, or make comments on articles published, please e-mail these to xxxx @ gmail.com

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A registered event in aid of Help for Heroes

Dear Fellow Charfielders,

Yikes! Where did the last 12 months go? Time to sign up for this year's Bacon Butty morning on 11 November.

Last year, we had the full Monty of a parade, with the Scouts in attendance. You will recall that we sent £700 to Help for Heroes; this sum included many donations from those who couldn't attend on the day, and those who donated far more than the cost of the butties.

Help for Heroes continues to do excellent work. The charity's overheads are more than covered by sale of goods from the H4H online shop, so EVERY PENNY donated is passed on to help those in need.

For Charfield's 4th annual brunch, same procedure as last year:

PLEASE tell us if you are going to come along – we'd hate to disappoint you … (and not take your money!) Many, many thanks. Your CHADRA Committee

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The Parish Council have applied for the closure of Wotton Road for the duration of the Parade. Those households that will be affected have been informed in writing, nearer the time there will be signs out showing diversion route, but as with last year we will aim for minimal disruption. There will be marshals at Little Bristol Lane end and Manor Lane end diverting and advising motorists. The road will be closed to all Traffic from 10:30am–12:30pm (except Emergency Vehicles).

Protocol for the Parade is … those that want to take part can either congregate at the Memorial Hall, where the procession will start at approx. 10:40–10:45am … or if you don't want to parade you are more than welcome to meet at the War Memorial.

The procession is likely to reach the War Memorial at 10:50am for everyone to take their place for the start of the service. Mark Rowse will read the names of the fallen – and this will be followed by a 2 minute silence. The end of the silence will be signalled by a Bugle playing of the Last Post. We then move on to the laying of the wreaths, which will be in the following order, Royal British Legion / Forces, Parish Council, Church, Scouts, Guides, Memorial Hall, Residents Association, Others.

Once the wreaths have been laid the service will move into the Church where the service will take place conducted this year by Revd. Christopher Mason. Don't feel you have to take part in this service but please join us to remember those that gave their lives for our liberty.

If you require a wreath, (and haven't already done so), please contact Marion Smith on 260651, who amongst her other roles is the Poppy Appeal Organiser for Charfield.

THANK YOU
HANNAH SAUNDERS – CLERK xxxx @ charfieldparishcouncil.org.uk (01454) 29xxxx.

Just in case you get this before 20 October … if you fancy a go at singing with your fellow villagers and having a cup of tea/coffee and a biscuit, please do sign up for the Big Sing. Two wonderful and pretty easy melodies to study, with expert tuition and accompaniment.

You've seen all those who have been reluctant at first, but who have gone on to have a ball in Gareth Malone's experiments … well, he's not likely to come to Charfield, so this is your main chance. Don't waste it!

Be brave! Register!

Go to charfield.org for more details, or email xxxx @ gmail.com, or phone Julia on 01454 26xxxx.

[Graphic: Singers]

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Saturday 24th November starting at 7.30 – Ministry of Entertainment presents Mrs Gerrish's rear window.

Once again we book into Mrs Gerrish's guesthouse, this time for an ‘out of season’ film noir-style thriller where Alfred Hitchcock meets Carry on Constable. Set to the music of the period and incorporating true stories of brushes with the law, you will be gripping the edge of your seat in the suspense, hiding behind your chair in terror and rolling in the aisles with laughter.

Tickets £8 adults & £6 children.

Telephone 01454 26xxxx.

FRIDAY EVENING 23RD NOVEMBER
6PM–9.30PM AT ST JOHNS CHURCH

Lots of stalls filled with Christmas Goodies Crafts, Local Goods, Demonstrations Children's stall (all items made by local children and they will be manning this stall) Prize draw + hamper draw Hot Chocolate & Mince pies We have spare tables for anyone wishing to sell their crafts or produce.

Call Gill on 01454 26xxxx, Rosemarie 0771714xxxx or Ruth on 01454 26xxxx for more information

Follow the Church Fair on Facebook, Twitter and the St John's Church Site

We are a self motivated group of like minded people who try to lose a bit of weight without a lot of pressure from organised slimming groups.

We meet each Tuesday morning at 9 am in St John's Church (opposite the school) to weigh in and have a chat over a cuppa, encouraging each other, exchanging ideas, recipes etc.

Most of us know what we need to do to lose or maintain our weight but need each other's support to keep motivated. We have a couple of males also in the group. We each pay £2.50 (this money goes towards church funds) and we are usually finished about 9.30. A good excuse for that 1st coffee/tea with company in the morning.

We look forward to you joining us, if you need any more information call

GILL 01454 26xxxx or ROSEMARIE 01454 26xxxx MOB 0771714xxxx

[Graphic: CHARFIELD SCHOOL]

REQUIRED – LUNCHTIME SUPERVISOR

We require a Lunchtime supervisor on
Wednesdays & Fridays, from 12.00 until 1.15p.m.

Please contact the school office if you are interested.
01454 26xxxx

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It is with much sadness that we report the sudden passing of Paul Birt in September. Paul was a local man – he was born in Wotton and he lived and worked in and around the local area all his life. He was a family man and in 1985 he became a Parish Councillor. A role that he held for over 25 years. In 2011 Paul decided not to re stand for election – as he was undergoing treatment for leukaemia.

Paul was the second longest standing councillor – with only John Poskett serving a longer term. He worked tirelessly for the community of Charfield with loyalty and integrity – he was involved in the upgrading of children's play facilities, youth provision for teens and the securing of land at Churchend so that the new Burial Ground for the parish could be developed.

Paul fought his battle with leukaemia very bravely and will be greatly missed by his wife Pat, Children, Step Children and Grand Children – as well as his colleagues on parish council, friends and neighbours. The Parish Council are endeavouring to install an oak bench up at the burial ground – as a perpetual memorial to Paul – and as a thank you for all he did for the village of Charfield.

I am sure that like myself, the whole village of Charfield and beyond are mourning the loss of former parish vicar, Viv Kerner who sadly died on the 8th September after a long battle with cancer.

There was such a turnout for her funeral on Tues 18th Sept that I am sure that there are many people out there, who have fond and happy memories of her that they would like to share. I just wanted to let CHADRA readers know that a forum has been created on the Charfield Community website www.charfield.org, where people can add their memories of Viv. Photographs can also be emailed to xxxx @ charfield.org.

In time, all the memories will be transcribed to print and turned into 2 books. One book will then be given to Steve Kerner and the other left at St. Johns for all to see and enjoy and remember Viv for the wonderful person that she was.

Regards
Alison White

BY THE REV'D SUE PHILLIPSON MASTERS

I was asked recently how I would sum up Viv in a few words – actually that is impossible! She loved being a PE teacher, and in later life she loved being a priest with the privileges that brings in opportunities to care for others, and to share with them during many different times in their lives.

People were her life-blood – her own family, husband Steve, and children Anthony and Alison with their respective families. Parishioners too, with whom she engaged so openly and easily, continued to energise her as she worked among them. Viv was such an alive person and gave so much of herself to every relationship she shared with others.

She loved being part of all that was going on – she was a true team player, and as you will undoubtedly recall, a born organiser. Viv was a bundle of non-stop energy, and left many of us in her wake, especially when a new project was in hand. A self-confessed perfectionist she was always looking for new things to 7introduce to the parish, and yet she could sit and listen to those in need with real attentiveness, because she truly cared for them. She loved children and they responded to her. Many young people in the parish will remember her and her sense of fun having belonged to the after school groups she ran.

Viv faced her illness as she faced everything in life, with faith and with a tremendous degree of energy. She worked through many emotions as she faced her death, and she came to a place of real peace about the adventure that she was about to embark on. She was truly grateful for all the love and kindness that she received during her illness, but she knew that she had been loved throughout her life and was immensely grateful for that sense of belonging and the security that gave her throughout her life.

For us all, as we said our public farewells to Viv on that Tuesday afternoon in September, there was a sense of loss of a vitality and love that we will carry with us for many years to come. There was too a sense of true celebration as we thanked God for Viv's life. She has left behind a legacy that will continue to unfold in the lives of those with whom she has shared her life.

There's a lot to talk about in this issue. We're entering one of the church's ‘busy seasons’ and details of all the special services and other activities are included. I'd also like to introduce you to the clergy team looking after the parish, which has increased quite a bit in recent months. And then to say goodbye to our much-loved Viv Kerner, who died last month after a long battle against cancer. First to introduce you to the clergy. Charfield is part of a group of churches (benefice) that comprises Charfield, Kingswood, Wickwar, Rangeworthy and Hillesley. The team is led by the Rector, the Rev'd David Russell, who was Rector of Wickwar, Rangeworthy and Hillesley for 14 years before the new benefice was set up, so he knows our area well. David has been ordained for 18 years, following an earlier career in high street banking. Working with David is the new arrival in Charfield, the Rev'd Chris Mason. Chris and his wife, Bronwen, moved into Charfield rectory at the end of August. Chris works part-time – Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday – supporting David in the five parishes and we are all looking forward to getting to know them over the next few months. They come from the Peterborough area, where Chris's background has included social work as well as work with schools as a chaplain.

David and Chris are also helped by Sue Phillipson-Masters, a retired priest who has become a much-appreciated and liked member of the team since stepping in to help with services during Viv's illness. We decided we couldn't bear to part with her and she has kindly agreed to remain part of the team, taking occasional services. Rev'd Alistair Kendall has a full-time ‘proper job’ (his words!) and helps with services for two Sundays a month. We really enjoyed his first service at Charfield in September. Patricia Broadfoot in Kingswood is training as a Reader; a licensed layperson able to take services in church, and will be part of the team once she finishes her training. So, we've gone from David dashing round the five parishes with just support from Sue P-M to having an embarrassment of riches where the clergy are concerned. Let's make good use of them!

Enquiries should all still go to the benefice office. Baptism and wedding requests and other enquiries can be lodged with Antonia, the benefice administrator, on Tuesdays (9.30am to 1.30pm) and Thursdays between 9.30am and 12 noon or sent to xxxx @ gmail.com. The 8telephone number for Wickwar Rectory is 01454 29xxxx.

As most of you know, we bade a fond farewell to Viv at the end of September after her 5 years of inspired and inspirational ministry in Charfield and Kingswood. Viv was much loved and will never be forgotten. Our condolences and love go to Steve and to Viv's family, together with our heartfelt gratitude to Steve for his wonderful care of her during her illness. Sue Phillipson-Masters was very close to Viv during her last months in particular and gives an appreciation in CHADRA.

Regular church services are listed below and all are welcome:

1st Sunday – 9.30, Parish Eucharist: normal service with communion
2nd Sunday – 9.30, Story-Teller Eucharist, a service with communion – especially for children
3rd Sunday – 9.30, Parish Eucharist: normal service with communion
4th Sunday – 9.30, Family Service with communion – special service for families
5th Sunday – benefice joint service in one of the parishes – check the notice board to see where.

Don't forget the church is open every day for personal reflection and that there are books, jams and marmalades available in church all the time.

Next, on to a number of special services and other activities during the autumn. First, the Christmas fair in St John's church. This will be held on Friday evening, 23 November, starting at 6pm and going on till 9.30. There will be lots of stalls filled with Christmas gifts – crafts and local produce etc. Past experience suggests some of this will be very tasty indeed. There will be a children's stall, with the children themselves selling items they have made. There will be a prize draw and a hamper draw and hot chocolate and mince pies will be available throughout. Put 23 November in your diary and we look forward to seeing you there.

1 November is All Saints' Day and 2 November is All Souls' Day. All Souls' Day is a day for marking remembrance of all those we love who are no longer with us and we mark it on the nearest Sunday. This year we are doing something special. We will have the church open from 3–6pm on Sunday 4 November and we will aim to create a warm and contemplative atmosphere for you to come in for a few minutes or as long as you like to reflect, to pray, to light a candle, to share memories or however you choose to remember those you love. We will provide candles and a board for prayers to be placed. We will also provide tea and coffee and there will be people to talk to if you wish to have support or if you just want to talk about your loved one. Sometimes it's just nice to hear their name spoken aloud again or see it written on the prayer board. If you want to go on to an All Souls service, this will be at 7pm at Wickwar.

The Christmas services have now been set and are as follows:

Sunday 2 December
4pm, Christingle, a service to start Advent, especially for children. They will get to take away a Christingle orange studded with sweets after being told about its meaning.

Sunday 16 December 4pm, Carol Service at St John's

Saturday 22 December 7pm, the traditional magical candlelit service at St James's, Churchend, with mulled wine and mince pies afterwards.

Monday 24 December 4pm, the crib service, especially for children. Get the wonder and excitement of Christmas started for children and adults at this service.

Monday 24 December 11.30, Midnight Mass

Tuesday 25 December 9.30, Christmas service

9Message from Rev'd Chris Mason

‘On your marks, get set … pause!’

On the 28th October the clocks will go back one hour and once more, we are set on course for those cold November days when it seems that, for some of us at least, life becomes a merry-go-round of work, rest and play and you grit your teeth at the looming prospect of a retail marathon – buying Christmas presents. Does another festive round of shopping amidst the crowds fill you with horror?

During a short stay in a Benedictine monastery near Oxford some years ago, I was intrigued at how easily the brothers could accomplish their daily chores of cooking, gardening, printing and cleaning and yet have so much quality time left over for offering hospitality, friendship, prayer and worship of God. It was clear that their secret lay in organising the community life around the rhythm of the Church year and a disciplined personal rule of life in which ‘all things are possible, with God.’

In the face of all our responsibilities, pressures and worries, my belief is that we too, can have the optimism and hope that ‘all will be well’ which comes from apportioning just a few minutes with God for quiet reflection, either at the start or end of the day – or both. The trick is to create the habit and then encourage each other!

The rhythm of the Church calendar year helps, for it deliberately turns our attention to the past with the anniversary on 1st November of all the saints and martyrs, known and unknown, throughout Christian history.

All Soul's Day (2nd November) enables us to remember and recall the souls of those who have died and here in Charfield many folk might be interested to know that St John's will mark this festival on Sunday 4th November by inviting anyone who wishes to visit for a time of personal prayer, vigil and lighting of candles at any time between 3.00–6.00pm. In this way we have the opportunity to honour the memory of those who are dear, but no longer near and to give thanks for their lives. For many, prayers of thanksgiving will be offered for the life of Viv Kerner.

And then we are drawn to look forward to the future, too, as the calendar reveals that Advent Sunday falls on 2nd December and focuses our thoughts on the great theme of waiting and the birth of the Christ child.

I find that changes in the world, the seasons and in my own life are easier to cope with in the context of tried and tested rhythms of the Church calendar which capture the joys, sadness and meaning of our human experience. It helps us avoid lurching randomly from one day to the next … so let's be on our marks, get set but take time to pause … and savour our God-given life.

With good wishes
Chris Mason
Charfield Rectory

Albert Einstein once said there are two ways to live: you can live as if nothing is a miracle; you can live as if everything is a miracle

We all have a story to tell, some are good, some are sad, some are uplifting and inspiring and sometimes if we are really lucky they are all of that. And that's just what happened to me the other month when I meet a lady at the bus stop.

I will call her Sarah and if she is reading this I hope she will forgive me for telling her story. But I was so moved that I could 10not help but investigate further and now, like life, where her chapter ended mine now begins and maybe so will yours.

I won't go into detail only to say Sarah was a middle aged over weight lady who had tried all the big gym chains and had found them to be unwelcoming lycra clad filled youth hangouts.

Then she came across a new style of gym, a friendly gym were she was not only welcomed but accepted (trust me there is a difference) Sarah's life changed over night, she lost weight, gained confidence and made new friends.

But it wasn't that, which made the story special. No to me it was the way it made her feel, A gem of a place she described it. She actually felt lucky to be a part of it and she had also joined the fundraising committee (something she would never normally do), it was doing so much for the local community and she wanted to give something back!!! All this from a gym?!? I had to check it out for myself.

I have been a practising motivational coach for just over a year now and have met some wonderful characters but never as many in 1 place. I knew I had stumbled across somewhere special as I ordered my Latte in the coffee shop. The counter was stocked with homemade cakes and chocolates; the bookshelf was filled with books about positive change (many of the titles I have in my personal collection). On the walls instead of the latest whey protein powder to hit the market, were fact sheets about what natural products I could use to ease pain or feel more energetic.

I can't say what's special about the place, as you will have to find that out for yourself when you pop in. I can say though that I have been coming back ever since and my life has changed beyond anything I could have imagined.

So whether you pop in for the Gym, the coffee shop, advice on alternative remedies or even a chat with me. I can guarantee 1 thing. You will leave with a smile ☺

So come in and meet the team at The old Sunday School Rooms up at the chipping Kingswood or call us on 01453 84xxxx or visit us on line www.####.net
And start your miracle.

Steve Picking

MASQUERADE BALL RAISES FUNDS FOR CHARFIELD MEMORIAL HALL

Eastwood Park Country House near Falfield was the venue for a Charity Masquerade Ball in aid of Charfield Memorial Hall on the evening of Friday October 5th. The Ball was well supported by ticket sales and Grand Draw tickets, with many prizes donated by local businesses and individuals, as well as a large donation from Hanson under their ‘Charity Match’ scheme.

Guests enjoyed a dinner to the music of harpist Anna, and an evening of entertainment by our local Magic Circle magician, Robin, with a disco afterwards.

The Trustees would like to thank everyone involved in this successful event which has raised almost £2000 towards much needed repairs and improvements to the Memorial Hall. After the dinner Jo Davis, Vice Chair, spoke of the commitment of the current committee and the importance of every pound raised. The Trustees are currently looking for a new caretaker and a new barman for the hall to enable functions to be fully supported. All enquiries regarding the hall should be sent to xxxx @ charfield.org

11SITUATIONS VACANT AT THE MEMORIAL HALL

The Memorial Hall Committee wish to appoint the following role(s)

Bar Person
Caretaker

These self employed posts could be combined for the right person.

For details of both roles and how to apply please contact:
Email: xxxx @ charfield.org
Phone or text: 07712 37xxxx

Or see our page on the Charfield Community Website: www.charfield.org

Closing Date 31st October 2012

Would you like to make your area a better place to live, work and play?
Then why not get involved with your local Safer Stronger Community Group? It works with the Council, Town Council, Police, Fire & Rescue and Health Authority to do just that.

You can:
• come along to a meeting
• go on-line at: http://####.southglos.gov.uk.
• call your Community Engagement Officer on 01454 86xxxx

The next meeting for the Charfield, Cromhall and Tortworth Group is:

Tuesday 20th November, 7.30pm Tortworth Estate, Tortworth.

The hall committee remain resolute in their commitment to continue improving and modernising the hall, when and however funds allow. It has probably not escaped your attention that we had a new roof put over much of the hall during the summer. This, complete with the new cladding, has made the hall both more weather proof and more aesthetically pleasing. We plan to carry on improving the look and feel of the hall whenever we have the money in the bank – without jeopardising our cash flow situation, so that we can keep the hall open as a community facility for all who live in & around Charfield.

As I said in my last CHADRA piece, back in April, the hall is old and tired and repairs and improvements are ever more costly and complicated. Please help us by continuing to support our events. Recent fundraising events have been the Plant Swap & Sale and the Jumble Sale – both held in September and which together raised almost £600 for the hall. My thanks to all those who organised, ran and attended these much needed fundraisers. As I write this, in the first week of October, we have the Masquerade Ball and Art Show & Sale planned for this coming weekend. Again I hope that these will both be well supported and raise much needed money for the on-going improvement works at the hall.

My personal thanks must also go to a couple of village residents who have very kindly made considerable donations to the hall recently – a very generous act.

Looking further ahead, please make every effort to come to the hall before the Remembrance Sunday Parade & Service in November for butties and hot drinks (supplied by the lovely people from CHADRA). The morning is a great community event, coupled with the act of remembering those local people who 12have made the ultimate sacrifice for this country – an important day.

Later in November, on the 24th, we have another of the very popular Rural Arts shows – so look out for details of that around the village soon and do come along for a great value & quality night of entertainment.

Finally, on a sad note, we have recently lost the services of our Bar Manager & Caretaker, John Russell, who has decided to retire after more than a decade of service to the hall & the village. I'm sure you will all join me, and the hall management committee, in wishing John all the very best for the future and thanking him for his dedicated help & support over such a long period. That said we must move on, and elsewhere in this edition of CHADRA, and around the village, you will see adverts for the positions of Bar Manager and Caretaker for the hall & playing fields. Please contact us if you are interested in either (or both) of these challenging but rewarding roles.

I look forward to seeing you at the hall at one of our forthcoming events in the near future. Thank you.

Tim Hill
Chair

Sandy's Last Demonstration

Demob was around the corner,
The war was gone and past,
We thought it was all over,
And that peace was here at last.
Then someone in authority,
Told us to pack our kit,
We were off to Salisbury Plain next day,
So he hoped we were still fit.
Arriving at the Barracks,
We inquired about our fate,
We were told quite plain and simply,
You are here to demonstrate.
The beds we were to sleep in,
Were the two tier bunks I hate,
But I was very lucky,
Beneath was my good mate.
Just a few days later,
We were told when on parade,
You will demonstrate tomorrow,
How a Battalion attack is made.
On all our demonstrations,
Live ammunition was used,
This seemed to us quite pointless,
And we certainly weren't amused.
Planes swept up the valley,
Commencing the attack,
Strafing the ground ahead of tanks,
While we were further back.
With smoke and bombs, plus small arms fire,
To the watchers this seemed real,
But to us taking part in the demo,
It had no great appeal.
When the demonstration ended,
Platoons were all fell in,
To unload all our weapons,
Before dispersal could begin.
Suddenly two shots were heard,
And as I turned around,
I saw my good mate Sandy,
Lying still upon the ground.
I ran to help my bunk mate,
And knelt down where he lay,
But I could only hold his outstretched hand,
As Sandy passed away.

Ken Parker.

What happened to Sandy:-
Sandy's sten gun malfunctioned as he was unloading it; he was trying to sort it out when something went terribly wrong. The sten gun was known to have faults and should have been banned.

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Yes it's that time of year again boys and girls Mums and Dad's. After a well earned rest over the summer, CADS is back in rehearsal and proud to announce our 2013 Pantomime ‘Babes In the Wood’ being performed exclusively in Charfield village hall on the 25/26th January.

For those of you who don't know the story it's about 2 young and very rich children being left in the care of their evil uncle the Sheriff of Nottingham!!! Will he get his hands on the kiddie's cash? Will Robin Hood save the day? Will Dangerous Dave ever join the band of Merry Men?

You will have to buy a ticket to find out and they are on sale from December 1st @ Steve's Shop!!!!

We are also holding a Christmas Coffee afternoon in the Sportsmen's lounge on Sunday December 9th 1–4!! We will be serving a selection of Christmas classics such as Mulled Wine and mince pies as well as a top selection of homemade cakes and biscuit's. So come and get into the Christmas spirit early, everyone is welcome and all money raised goes towards the Panto!!!

MERRY CHRISTAMS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM ALL THE CADS CREW!!!

WE'VE DONE IT!!! It seems like a long time ago now that I was writing to let you know about all the hard fundraising work The Friends were undertaking to raise enough money to complete the first phase of the replacement of the school adventure playground equipment, well now I'm delighted to report that, not only have we raised the money, but we have now spent it and the equipment has been installed!!

I am writing this article having just returned from our ‘Grand Opening’ event at the school. In addition to lots of fun and games, including a bouncy castle, penalty shoot out and face painting, we were lucky enough to have a celebrity guest star, Heart FM's Paris, to oversee proceedings including a treasure hunt and relay race, as well as perform the official opening of the new adventure playground.

[Photo]

I am delighted to write that, not only does the playground have new equipment but it also has a new name and is now called ‘Climbing Chaos’ – this was the winning entry in the ‘name the adventure playground’ competition run in conjunction with the school – Charlotte Parsons (Year 6) came up with the winning name – well done Charlotte!!

In addition to celebrity guests, we were also lucky enough to have representatives from all of those companies who have donated grants to the project – I would again like to say a big THANK YOU on behalf of The Friends to; Magnox, National Grid, Renishaw, RWE Npower and Nat West, for their generous support. These grants help immensely in enabling The Friends to fund larger projects such as the proposed 14‘Phase 2’ replacement of the central section of the adventure playground equipment.

I would like to take this opportunity again to make a plea to anyone working for a company that runs a community grant or matched giving scheme, struggling to find a suitable cause, to get in touch!

I would also like to say a big THANK YOU to all of those committee members and helpers for getting everything organised for the ‘Grand Opening’ event as well as helping on the day – despite the weather deciding to turn against us at the last minute everyone had a really enjoyable time!

We are now heading into a busy fund raising period for The Friends and by the time you read this we would have held our AGM and hopefully been able to recruit some more willing helpers!

As with every event, we are reliant on the hard work and enthusiasm of volunteers and we are always pleased to hear from anyone who would like to get involved and lend some help. You will be made most welcome, new committee members are always needed, but it doesn't matter if you can't help on a regular basis, there are always little jobs that can be done from home – it may even be a money raising idea you have, if so we would love to hear from you!

The dates for our upcoming events are confirmed as follows;

Fireworks Night – Friday 2nd November
Cinema Night – November (date TBC)
Christmas Fair – Saturday 8th December

I look forward to keeping you informed of our future events, until then, once again, a very big thank you to everyone who has worked with and supported The Friends.

Tim Skuse
Chair – The Friends of Charfield Primary School
01454 26xxxx

Dear fellow villagers; I have a sorry tale to tell. While posting admittedly unsolicited mail around the village, to wit, some flyers urging you to attend the Big Sing, I made some discoveries; ie, there are many hazards to negotiate when undertaking such a task. You may not have an ounce of sympathy for me as I was not working in any official capacity and you may detest unlooked-for promotional material being delivered … but spare a thought for your local postman (or post lady) or other legitimate deliverer to your door, or indeed for your friends who might visit.

1. Gardens with lust for Lebensraum
There are many examples of hedges/plants growing at the borders of gardens, which are encroaching onto the pavement, narrowing the space available to walkers. While there may still be plenty of room for one person, it is a different matter for those who have children/pushchairs to cope with, or if you wish to pass by someone. Please check the edge of your property to see if your plants need to be trimmed back so that the pavement is clear to its full width.

2. Overhanging branches
I was highly amused to see a tree with branches overhanging the pavement, the branches of which had been carefully, nay, beautifully trimmed to allow pedestrians to pass underneath safely … if they were under five feet six inches tall. There are taller people in the village, to my certain knowledge! Overhanging foliage can be unpleasant to walk into and a hazard to the eyes, particularly if walking in the murk of winter mornings 15and evenings. Please allow for this when giving your trees a short back and sides.

3. Uneven ground/paths/broken steps etc
There are many examples of dodgy approaches to front doors. Trip hazards, ankle-turning height differences, and other obstacles such as bits of rubble. Surely this is important for your guests, and yourself, as well as others? With winter coming and dark mornings and evenings, it would be good to have a clear and safe approach to your front door.

4. Letterboxes with attitude
From a security point of view, any letters should be pushed right through the letterbox so as not to be visible from the street. If you are away, and post remains visible, it advertises your absence. Some letterboxes are very difficult to actually use – they scrape and scratch at the hand, the draught excluding brush on the inside can be a tough obstruction to overcome. Try pushing an envelope through your own letterbox, and see how you get on. Not too bad? Imagine doing it hundreds of times at day … think of your poor postie. Can you improve it?

5. Unpredictable pooches
Now to my sorry tale. I am a soppy dog-lover, but I have been sorely tried today. Delivering those dratted flyers to encourage you to come to the Big Sing, I was bitten by a dog who was lurking on the other side of a door as I pushed through a flyer. The owner (who happened to be outside his property) witnessed it; good job too, because he said he wouldn't have believed it of either of his dogs.

After three hours in Frenchay ER, agonising soaks in some vile jollop to disinfect the wound, an X-ray (to check for bits of dog tooth – negative), two injections in my finger which had me saying ‘goodness gracious me’ or some more pithy Anglo-Saxon version of same, two stitches “just loose ones to hold down the flap – it's too swollen to deal with properly today”, and an appointment at the plastic surgery department tomorrow when the loose stitches are to be removed and no doubt replaced with some other scream inducing needlework, many tears of pain and shock, I can safely say I am not happy this evening. Hence my writing to you.

If you have dogs, PLEASE consider installing an exterior wall-mounted box for your post. Or you could affix a mesh cage on the inside of your door to catch the mail and protect the hand of the deliverer. It would seem that you just can never tell what your normally friendly dog might do to embarrass you. Or cost you money.

Have a heart! Or, as my Gran would have said with an ominous tone, “Think on!“

PS – 10 days later I was in a Frenchay operating theatre having that finger sliced open again to clean it up – dog bites are notorious for infection. I'm sure any dog owners would not want to be responsible for causing such an injury to someone using their postbox. You just never know.

It seems a long time since the children were enjoying their activities during their long summer holiday. The themes throughout the summer were the Olympics and sun, sea and sand and the children enjoyed lots of different activities including cooking, crafts and competitions. The club is already taking bookings for the October Half Term holiday, so please contact the club if your children would like to come along to join in the fun.

Our fundraising efforts continued during the summer, and on August 5th, we organised a very successful Tortworth Lake Teas. Refreshments, including drinks, cakes and bacon sandwiches were served to many walkers. We are 16very pleased to have raised £179 for club funds. Thank you to Cam Butchers who donated the bacon, everyone who donated cakes and those committee members and staff who gave up their time to help run the kitchen. We would also like to say a big thank you to everyone from the village and beyond that came and supported us.

The drive for fundraising is set to continue throughout the year. We will be planning our annual jumble sale in January and within the club, the staff will be organising a Christmas Grand Draw and quiz. We are also very grateful for termly donations of useful items, which we use a lot of. This scheme works really well, so thank you to all who have bought in toilet rolls, tissues, soap, felt pens, etc. in the past.

We are pleased to have welcomed new members to the club in September. Our breakfast club continues to run every day between 7.30am and 8.40am and is proving popular. If you wish your children to come along for a trial session, please contact us to book them in.

The club will be holding its Annual General Meeting on Thursday 18th October in the Foundation room at 7.30pm. We will not be asking for people to offer to Chair, become Treasurer or Secretary – so don't panic! But we do need more general committee members. If you already use the club, we would love to see you and if you could offer a couple of hours a year to attend committee meetings, offer ideas and help with fundraising we would be very grateful.

Likewise we would like to repeat our offer to any volunteers from the local area who would like to help in holiday times, either by showing the children a specific skill or hobby they enjoy or even if they just want to get involved with the activities already offered at the Out of School Club. We would love to hear from you. All volunteers would need to be aged 18+ and prepared to undergo an enhanced CRB check as is required for all individuals who work closely with children.

Don't forget our club is open to all children attending school up to the age of 13. During term time we are open from 07:30 until the start of school and after school until 18:00. During holidays and In Service Training days we are open from 07:30 to 18:00. We are even open if the school is closed due to snow. Check out the school website for more details www.charfieldschool.org.uk and follow the links. Please give it a go, we are sure your children will enjoy it and you will be impressed!

Thank you once again to everyone who has used the club in 2012 or who has supported us with fundraising activities. Also, a huge thanks to Pat, Georgina, Jo, Anne and Paul, our dedicated staff, who work so hard for the children at all times.

The Out of School Club Committee

Having completed the household survey earlier in the year, and getting a tremendous response, the Business Survey is now underway. This will enhance the feedback we can include in the final report, which we hope to publish by the end of the year. If you run a business and are sent a survey please get it back as soon as possible so we can include your thoughts and ideas.

Some of the subjects and responses already provide valuable ammunition to support certain causes. For example the strength of response on Broadband issues has enabled us to lobby our councils and MP in order to get a higher priority for Charfield being upgraded to faster broadband speeds. Comments regarding the Village Hall and Playing Fields are ready to be passed to the 17Trustees of the Memorial Hall so they can understand the needs of the village in regard to the facilities provided. Following calls for a Café, a Coffee Lounge has been relaunched on Tuesday mornings in the Sportsman's Lounge and it is hoped to expand this to cover additional days if there is enough support.

So it won't be too long before all the results are published and available for everyone to see, and then more villagers can get involved in some of the Action Plans to improve life in Charfield.

Thanks to everyone for the input so far and especially to all the members of the Village Plan Steering Group who have maintained the enthusiasm for this project for well over a year now.

Any comments or questions? Email xxxx @ gmail.com

As last year, our willing helpers have been covering shoe boxes with festive wrapping and for some time been filling them with various goodies. By the time this goes to print we will have nearly reached our target of 300+ boxes, easily surpassing our effort last year of 200.

[Photo] Shoe Boxes are filled with items such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, other toiletries, a scarf, gloves, a hat, sweets etc. All tailored to suit varying ages and requirements. They are sent during November to orphanages and poor people in villages and towns mainly in Eastern Europe. Most certainly, these gifts will be the only present the recipients receive during the whole year.

We support the charity Blythswood Care, who combine the Christian message with practical help for those in need. Our helpers take great delight in the knowledge that we bring a little pleasure into the life of underprivileged people. Could you?

Please contact April on 01453 84xxxx or email xxxx @ hotmail.co.uk

Hello my name is Vanessa and I have recently taken over responsibility for the regular business advertising within the Chadra Newsletter.

This task has previously been undertaken by Joan, our Vice Chair and Isabel, the Editor. Between them they have been responsible for all aspects of the advertising, as well as holding other positions on the Committee and they have both done a brilliant job.

Over time, it has become apparent that it would be more logical to have as much of the advertising done by one person as possible to help spread the workload and that's where I come in. I will be looking after all aspects of the advertising apart from the invoicing, which will now be done by Julia, our Treasurer.

The Chadra Newsletter is a fantastic way to advertise your business as it is currently delivered to approximately 700 homes in the Charfield area.

CHADRA aim to balance the number of adverts placed in our magazine, the emphasis is on news. From time to time we have to start a waiting list for people waiting to advertise when space becomes available.

18So if you are thinking of taking out an advert or making any changes to your existing advert-maybe add an email address-then please contact me on the details below.

Vanessa Cole 01453 52xxxx & 07580 016458 xxxx @ gmail.com

Just a short article this time as we have just restarted the new term. The Beavers have been at Avening Green working on their health and fitness, learning about camping and enjoying the outdoor activities. The Cubs have also been working on their Fitness, Lion Pack have completed their Athletes and Athletes Plus badges and held a backwoods cooking evening where they prepared and ate camp doughnuts (battered jam sandwich dipped in sugar) and chocolate bananas cooked on the camp fire. One of our parents came in and kindly showed the Cubs how to light a fire using the friction method, they were absolutely enthralled. The Scouts have enjoyed their ‘cryptic’ programme, opening with a visit from Tony, Raptorcare, hiking. They did hold their September back to basics camp which was a bit chilly but they all had good fun. The Cubs and Scouts are looking forward to their Autumn weekend away at PGL Liddington, we'll be taking part in the following: quad biking, archery, abseiling, crate challenge, vertical challenge, aeroball and fencing. Wow!

We will be losing shortly one of our Assistant Cub Leaders, who is moving further South, if anyone can spare a few hours a week please contact us.

Likewise our Group Treasurer would like to retire if anyone has any book keeping experience that are willing to take us on please let us know?

This year we will be parading on Remembrance Day in Cromhall, meeting at the Cromhall Scout HQ at 2.30pm and marching down to St Andrew's Church for 3.00pm. We do hope Charfield will be well attended and will see you all next year.

On the fundraising front we will be providing the refreshments at the Wotton Charities Fair in the Civic Centre on Saturday 25th November from 10.00–4.00pm. Come and have your lunch served to you by one of our lovely Scouts!

We will also be holding our own Christmas Fair on Saturday 1st December at our Cromhall HQ, Santa will be visiting, we will have games for the young ones, Christmas shopping for the ladies and refreshments for the men folk to put their feet up and watch it all happen!

Want to know more about us?
take a look at our website www.####.co.uk and if you need any information about our group or would like to volunteer please email us on xxxx @ gmail.com.

Yours in Scouting
Sandra Carnegie
Group Scout Leader

On Saturday 16 June an audience was “spellbound” as they were treated to close up magic, sandwiched between cabaret on the stage. With 5 magicians in total (3 members of the magic circle) there was a full evening of baffling displays.

Pen yourself in for a second night of Magic
On 26th OCTOBER 7–11

And prepare to be amazed. Tickets from Steve's Shop or Robin 01454 26xxxx or Jenny 01454 26xxxx £8 Adults under 12's £5

19

Are you a voluntary group working in South Gloucestershire? Do you serve your local community to make their lives better? And would a small grant from South Gloucestershire Council help you do it?

All our grants are designed for volunteer groups that want to develop projects and provide activities that meet local needs. They can include art and culture, children and play, community safety, developing communities, enhancing the natural and built environment, learning activities, promoting equality and tackling poverty, sports, and supporting vulnerable people.

Our Small Revenue Grants fund can give you up to £3,000 or more (depending on where you live) for any of these activities, and applying for one is easily done online through the Council's website. If you would like to apply for funding, applications can be made from

Monday 22 October 2012. You have 5 weeks to apply (closing date is 26 November 2012), and we can help you every step of the way.

Go to our website now for more information. Or phone our Grants Helpline on 01454-86xxxx for an informal chat. Go online after 22 October to make your application.

More information?
Grants Helpline 01454-86xxxx
Grants Officer 01454-86xxxx Phil Maswera
Grants Advisor 01454-86xxxx Paula Meek
Website http://tinyurl.com/####
Email enquiries xxxx @ southglos.gov.uk

A big welcome to all our new starters, we're delighted that they're all settling in so well.

We still have a few places available in certain sessions, so please call Debra on 07966 61xxxx if you would like to chat about registering your child as a new starter, or about extending your existing hours. We have also opened up some of our sessions to welcome children from 2 years old (no potty training required!), so again please call or e-mail us (xxxx @ gmail.com) for more details.

Welcome also to Sarah, Vicki and Sam, our new committee members who supported our AGM and have already revolutionised proceedings by insisting that all future meetings take place in the pub!

Speaking of the AGM, huge thanks must go to Wotton Accountancy Associates for their invaluable support in carrying out an independent review of our year-end accounts.

Our biggest challenge in the next few months is to implement the changes made to our operating framework, the EYFS. This sets the standard that all Early Years providers must meet in order to ensure that our children learn and develop well, and are kept healthy and safe. It promotes teaching & learning to ensure children are ready for Primary School, and from 1st September 2012 the guidelines have changed significantly.

Improvements include:-

• a new progress check at the age of two
• stronger emphasis and assessment on primary skills such as ‘communication & language’; ‘physical & personal’; ‘social & emotional development’.
• 20expected levels that your child should reach at age 5, called the “Early Years Goals”.

In addition to the EYFS challenges in this academic year, we also face a year of financial challenges. The number of children registered at our Pre-School is much lower than last year, and the cost of our basic materials, consumables and staffing has increased. Despite reporting a £3k excess at the end of last year, we anticipate that we will have to use some, if not all of this to subside our predicted loss by the end of the 2012/13 academic year.

Still, enough doom and gloom … despite the challenges ahead, our Staff and Committee are dedicated to growing a sustainable Pre-School that makes our Community proud.

… And that brings us nicely to our quarterly cry for fundraising help! As ever, our Fundraising Team is hot on the heels of money-making ideas, and we will again be tapping into some new schemes in the coming months.

In time for the Christmas Shopping season, we are re-launching our “easyfundraising” campaign, aimed at those who buy things on the internet. As the name suggests, it's a REALLY EASY way for the Pre-School to raise funds. More details are in the separate advert in this issue of CHADRA. Please visit www.easyfundraising.org.uk and sign up as a ‘Supporter’. You can really make a difference … simply by shopping.

Why not join our Lottery Club? Enter our monthly prize draw and win a cash prize! This is a great way for grandparents, aunties/uncles and family friends to support Pre-School every month … as the saying goes, “you have to be in it, to win it”!

JINGLE BELLS! Finally, Santa is already booked to tour the village on his float on Sunday 16th December, with an upgrade for 2012! Keep your eyes and ears peeled for those sleigh bells, and a little elf ringing your doorbell with a collection tin in their hand!

Have a great Autumn term,

Karen Stainthorpe
Chair

21

[Graphic: Charfield School]

Working together …

OFSTED UPDATE
Firstly I would like to thank everyone from our community for their support and offers to help the school. We are all very grateful to be within a community that rallies around in times of need.

The school received its first OFSTED monitoring visit in September. We were very pleased that HMI (Her Majesty's Inspectorate) decided that the school is making reasonable progress towards the removal of Special Measures. Under the new OFTSED framework (from September 2012) this was the best possible outcome achievable.

We were pleased that the report recognised the improved results in Key Stage 2 and we had maintained the above average attainment in Key Stage 1. HMI also reported on the good teaching observed and how well pupils behave in and out of class.

Clearly we have some further embedding of practice but we are pleased with HMI's recognition of the rapid improvements already made and the drive and commitment of all at the school to the task ahead.

STAFF NEWS
The start of term has seen a number of staff changes in the school. Within the teaching staff Mrs Gordon, Miss Carroll and Mrs Pragnell were replaced by Mrs Hill, Mrs Garside and Mr Crocker.

From our Teaching Assistant staff Mrs Joyner moved on to a new role. Mrs Joyner was also one of our Dinner Supervisors. We wish all our leavers the best for the future and welcome our new starters

Our current classes and teachers are:

CHARFIELD SCHOOL FRIENDS
Quite simply our Friends organisation is fantastic! Throughout last year the group of volunteers worked tirelessly to raise funds to replace half of our Adventure Playground. The Grand Opening took place in September (despite a ‘few’ drops of rain) with Paris Troy from Heart FM officially opening the area. The children love the new equipment so on behalf of the school and most importantly the children. THANK YOU FRIENDS!

[Photo]

YEAR 2

Year 2 have been learning about stories in familiar settings. This has been linked to our topic on Castles looking at stories set in and around Castles. In this session the children were using the story “Good Knight sleep tight”. They “became” the knight and retold the story from his point of view.

22[Graphic: Knight] My name is Sir Charlie Stinky Socks. I am a knight in the king's army. One day the king came over to have a little chat with me. He said “royal knight, please can you get something soft and fluffy and hurry”. Then I leapt into action, I was so quick I didn't get to finish my sentence. Then my adventure began. First, I went into a spooky forest. Suddenly in a blink of an eye I saw twenty bears jump out of a hedge. I was hiding behind a tree wondering if I could get some bear hair to put in the royal pillow. Suddenly some wolves came out of the trees, wolves hair laid everywhere! Suddenly an owl fell out of the tree and bounced of my head and feathers laid everywhere! “That's it” I said, “are the feathers to fill the pillow”, “if its feathers you want” said the owl, “follow me and come and meet the feather tree”. Then I climbed up the tree with my completely scared of heights horse. We got to the top of the tree and then I told the birds my tale. Then the blue birds happily agreed to pluck enough feathers for the pillow for the royal princess.
Daniel P

YEAR 3
Year 3's creative juices have really been flowing. They have been learning how to make their writing more exciting by extending and adding exciting connectives.

YEAR 4 Year 4 have been learning a variety of methods to calculate addition and subtraction.

YEAR 6

Year 6 have been reading ‘Pig Heart Boy’ by Malorie Blackman. This is a fascinating story of a young boy, Cameron, who desperately needs a heart transplant. Eventually, the only option to save his life is to have a pig heart transplanted into his body. Our Year 6 class became journalists and reported about this fascinating and pioneering operation.

PIG HEART BOY
A 14 year old boy who was dying from heart disease is now at home again, living a normal teenage life.

Cameron Kelsey has just had a pig heart transplant after an 11 hour procedure. The operation took place in an unknown location; the surgeon was Professor Richard Bryce. Cameron had the operation 2 weeks ago and is now in great condition, playing with his school friends again.

When Cameron was born he had a virus that caused Cardiac Disease. Since then he was suffering from weakness and was always feeling tired. Mr Kelsey decided that his son couldn't go like that and talked to a Specialist. The Specialist, Richard Bryce, agreed to do the transplant and is now extremely happy to have saved a human's life. As well as saving Cameron Kelsey's life, the doctors have proved that when there aren't enough human heart donors they will use more pig hearts.

Dr Bryce was confident and sure that the surgery would succeed, fortunately it did succeed and Cameron is now at home again.

Mr and Mrs Kelsey are very happy and said, “We are truly glad that the operation went well, Cameron is back at school and having heaps of fun with his friends!”

Cardiologists said, “We see many people in need of a heart however there aren't enough heart donors to save everyone. We do everything to try and save the innocent people, then Dr Bryce got an amazing idea, to use pig hearts. First all the staff was unsure about the idea. Dr Bryce explained it and showed how close a pig heart is to a human heart. That one transplant changed everything. We are very grateful to Dr Bryce and thank him very much.”

Written by Naomi C – BBC Correspondent

Wow what a summer!

I am not even thinking about the Queen's Diamond Jubilee or Bradley Wiggins winning the Tour de France nor even Andy Murray winning his 1st tennis major despite these events being momentous occasions in our history.

With Alan, I was very lucky to spend two weeks at the Olympic Games watching the 23various disciplines live or on a big screen, soaking up the electrifying atmosphere – but I am not even referring to this huge event. The Olympic Games were said to be the test event for something even more special and memorable – that's correct, the Paralympic Games! These were possibly the best Paralympic Games ever and I was extremely fortunate to have been a small part of that success.

The journey has been a long one, when back in early 2009 I expressed an interest on the LOCOG (London Organising Committee for the Olympic/Paralympic Games) website about becoming a Volunteer/Games Maker at the Paralympic Games. I received numerous e-mails keeping me up to date with the progress of both games when eventually in 2010 I received an e-application form to fill in and return.

In January 2012 I received an invitation to attend an interview in Canary Wharf. It was explained to all of us attending that we were being assessed for the role of “Meet & Greet the spectators at one of the venues”. We had been advised to really sell ourselves and not be shy at this interview. It was really difficult to sell yourself when you do not really know what they are looking for.

Two weeks later I had a phone call from LOCOG saying they wanted to offer me a different job. However, it meant I needed to be available for a month instead of the 10–15 days I had agreed to previously, and I would need to take a driving training course organised by the AA as well as a driving theory test!

The official position was a National Paralympic Committee Assistant (NPC Assistant). An NPC Assistant is assigned to one of the participating countries (in my case Samoa), and I was to work closely with the Chef de Mission, who is responsible for and in charge of that country's Paralympic Committee. In other words I became the P.A. and driver for that person, making sure he/she knew all the necessary information and protocol needed for the athletes to participate. Also to take them wherever and whenever they chose. (Or as Alan said, “a general dog's body!”) I would not be working alone but as part of a team of 3. Phew – quite a responsible position!

My work place would be the Athletes Village and all the competition venues! So after careful consideration I accepted the job and the training process began. When you apply to be a Volunteer, you were made aware you could not claim any travel or accommodation expenses you might incur.

Throughout 2012 I attended 3 different training modules in London all specifically designed to inform me about the job I had agreed to do. Also there was the driving training course in Stratford, which lasted 10 hours with theory lectures, getting to know the BMW car and the sat nav which was programmed to use the Olympic road network. This was followed with the afternoon practical driving assessment going to the different competition venues.

Finally I attended my venue training day at the Athletes' Village where there was no public access at all. I felt so privileged to be walking around this area before the athletes actually arrived.

My actual start date on Sunday 19 August soon became a reality and it was with a mixture of exuberance and nervousness that I caught the tube and headed in for my first day as a Volunteer proudly wearing my snazzy uniform.

[Photo]

We were always told the most important people and the main focus of the games, quite rightly, were the athletes. The main objective was that all the NPC's would leave London saying they were hosted and supported by the best NPC Assistants ever, and that these Assistants had a wonderful rewarding and fantastic experience in doing so.

Part 2 next issue
BABS PEARN

24

I hope you've all had a brilliant summer. What am I saying, of course, you've had the same wet and windy summer the rest of us have had, haven't you? Ok, I hope you made the best of it, because Autumn is upon us!

I guess everyone was aware of the passing of Viv Kerner, resident priest at St Johns'. Viv's funeral took place at the end of September and she now lies in Charfield Burial Ground. The new priest is Chris Mason and he and his wife Bronwen have moved into the Rectory and we all wish them well.

Another loss to the village recently was the passing of Paul Birt, who was a Parish Councillor for nearly twenty-five years, and the second longest serving councillor after John Poskett. I know Hannah has written a few words about Paul elsewhere in this CHADRA, so I'll merely note how lovely a fellow Paul was, and how much the fact we have a burial ground at all was down to his energy and enthusiasm. I gather Paul will be cremated and his ashes buried at Charfield Burial Ground.

The burial ground itself is preparing for winter. The wildflowers that managed to bloom through the unusually wet summer have set seed and will soon be mowed, and the rose and lavender garden at the top of the ground which is still attracting bees and butterflies will soon fall asleep. As I see what has become of an acre of pretty poor paddock I know Paul would be proud to find himself here, watching over the sunrise as it lifts above the Cotswolds.

Back in the village itself, you'll of course see the development progressing at 60 Wotton Road, and the five houses on the corner of Little Bristol Lane have recently started build after many years of waiting. Our village continues to grow. This is probably inevitable and is certainly only going to escalate following further relaxation of planning legislation by the coalition government. Our task as your Parish Council will be to try to ensure any expansion of the village is carried out with due regard for the existing amenity and local infrastructure, and reflects local need.

By the time this text hits the streets, the Autumn Litter Pick will have been and gone. I hope many of you came along and helped clear up the verges before the litter that meaner folk casually dump is covered by autumn leaves. It's an opportunity to network with your Councillors, who man the stand handing out litter pickers and bin bags. There'll be another chance in the spring, and like this one a tweet will go out in good time to remind you. Oh, Twitter? Yes, we tweet now.

We were fortunate to win some grant money a while back, which will go toward erecting a noticeboard in the corner of the Hall car park and play area, which was recently re-fenced. This will stand beside the commemorative stone soon to be engraved, and give information on the public rights of way (PROW) around the parish. Many of us walk around true village for exercise and relaxation, and it is our hope to promote some of the paths and trails that are less well used. If you explore the PROW around here and find anything amiss, remember you can contact Hannah to get something done.

I'll finish by mentioning the reduced speed limits that have been placed on the roads in to the parish, especially from Tortworth and Cromhall. The police have been taking an interest in cars and lorries using these roads, and we'd much prefer our parishioners didn't collect any points on their licences! Enjoy the change in the colours in the trees, and brace yourselves. If summer wasn't very noticeable, perhaps autumn and winter are going to impress us …

That Twitter account … if you tweet please do go and follow us at @Charfield_PC We hope to use it for drawing attention to issues in and around the village. All the best,

Mark Rosher – Chairman
Charfield Parish Council

In the last issue I mentioned that I would attempt to update readers on the plans for superfast broadband and this is the latest information. South Gloucestershire Council's 25broadband project aims to deliver superfast broadband to 90% of premises in South Gloucestershire, with the remaining premises to have a minimum access line speed of 2Mbps.

Working in partnership with Wiltshire Council and Swindon Borough Council we were able to launch our procurement bid on the 29 June. The procurement process invites businesses in the BDUK national procurement framework, to bid for the contract and demonstrate why they would provide the best value for money and highest level of service. We are pleased to advise that we are nearing completion of the procurement process. The award of the contract is subject to European State Aid, in short this means we have to prove we will only be investing money to improve broadband coverage in areas where the industry has failed to invest. The government has submitted a State Aid application for the UK, which will be completed by Broadband Delivery UK (BDUK) and the European Commission over the coming months. Successful State Aid approval for the UK is a requirement of our ability to award the contract.

Once the contract has been awarded we anticipate that the survey and network design work will take approximately six to nine months to complete. Infrastructure work is expected to commence in 2013 and it will take until 2015 to deliver the improvements. As I mentioned before the procurement process is nearing completion and we are hoping to make an announcement on the preferred bidder in mid to late October, which unfortunately is just outside the CHADRA publication deadline. However I will try to keep everyone updated on the progress of this project.

At the Seven Vale Area Forum in September we were able to help with grants for the Memorial Hall and the Parish Council Burial Ground. These are small grants which are decided by the elected members of the Council. I have asked for the South Gloucestershire Council Grants News to be included in this edition as the grants are available to all voluntary groups in South Gloucestershire. If you run a group take a look at the criteria you may be able to apply and secure that much need funding for your group, the Council will even advise you and help you to complete the application.

John O'Neill – Councillor Charfield

Hello! Happy Autumn.

Now then, it's the bewitching hour and Marion Smith saw me at school reminding me about ‘my bit’ and I cheekily said, “Well you know us artistic sorts, cannot perform until the last minute.” Help, it's here.

It was July and after all the Queen's celebrations and pre Olympics excitements etc, I got in from school absolutely pooped. I changed into my nightie, (T-Shirt style, not floaty-abouty) and flopped onto the settee. Suddenly I remembered that I was due to collect for the RNLI. I was deciding whether to drag myself up from the comfy spot when I thought, hang on those life boat men won't be thinking about it so up I got, put on my jogging, (no, I don't GO jogging) pants, black mac over said nightie and off I went, cardboard lifeboat under my arm. Do you remember the other year when I had been out for about 4 hours and had only been to about three houses; too busy chatting, so I was a teeny bit firmer this year. I was walking along Underhill and waived to a certain chap who was driving along. I'd ‘done’ most of the street when that chap returned to his home. “Oh good,” I said, “I'm collecting for a life boat.” The sheer fact of me telling him I had my nightie on made him part with his 70p!!! Thank you, you know who you are.

On one of my visits to Mum, she said about going up the Thames to the Olympic Park area, (pre it all happening) as the new People Carrier Pods, or whatever they are called, over the O2 Arena had opened and we thought we'd have a look. We took the tube up to the London Eye/South Bank area and went to book on one of the boats. Mum and I went to a booth and I was armed with my passport as evidence that I had just reached a certain age when you could have a bit off, money that is. The chap told us about all the options and we said we'd go on a Skipper. Then he said it was £3 each. “Blimey,” I said, 26“have we got to row it ourselves?” And he didn't want to look at my passport. “Don't get upset,” said Mum. Still, great value for money.

Come on then, who saw me on The Flower Pot Gang? Keith and I were watching the second program out of the scheduled four, when they asked for volunteers to help at a school at Bristol. Still being on school holiday, myself, I thought wow that's just up my street. I spoke to “Saskia”!!! at the BBC. She told me where the venue was and that most of the creating of the garden was complete but that on the Friday, “party people” were required for the Grand Opening. When I arrived there was Anneka Rice, Joe Swift and, of course, the fab Phil Tufnell, being filmed for certain shots. We were told to queue at the gate to pretend we were just arriving and we would be filmed entering the School Garden. “Chat amongst yourselves,” this cameraman said. “Ooh, I've come on my own,” so turned around and started talking to this young chap from Bath. Next thing, Phil Tufnell is in front of me. “Ooh, Phil, lovely to meet you,” I gushed. He asked how far I had travelled and what had I brought, as I was holding two big carrier bags. “Chocolate cake for the party and my welly boots.” Phil said, delving into one of my bags and holding up for the camera, “and don't forget your kneeling pad!”

So my lovely peeps, I think I've brought you all up to speed.

Look after yourselves and, remember, always try to watch something funny on the tele!!!

Lots of love, Maz xxx

1st Charfield Rainbows

Monday 4.15pm–5.15pm at Charfield Village Hall, for girls 5 years–7 years old.

This term we are exploring Space!

We urgently need another adult helper, if you can spare an hour on a Monday please contact Dani Bindon on xxxx @ hotmail.co.uk

2nd Charfield Brownies

Tuesday at Charfield Village Hall, for girls 7 years–10 years old.

2nd Wotton Guides

Thursday 7.30pm–9pm at Wotton Baptist Hall for girls 10 years–14 years old.

This term we have completed our Fire Safety badge, and had an apprentice challenge, and coming up is a pampering evening, a pyjama party, the Wotton Panto, and the Confectioners Badge. Adult helpers are always needed; please contact Sarah Cocker on xxxx @ hotmail.com

Due to the long waiting list we have for Guides, we are hoping to start a 2nd Unit in Wotton to meet on a Tuesday night, adult leaders and helpers are needed in order for the unit to start, please contact District Commissioner: Kathryn Schofield at xxxx @ btinternet.com

Baby & Toddler Group

[Graphic: Charfield Little Stars]

Fridays 10:00–11:30 AM Charfield Memorial Hall £2.50 per family

Toys, craft activities, song time and a healthy snack for your little star.

Tea, coffee and a chance to get out of the house and make some new friends for you.

https://sites.google.com/site/charfieldlittlestars/

Have you thought of hiring the hall for your function? Whether it's a party, a fund-raiser or a craft/antique fair, or music event, we can offer everything you need. The Sportsman's 27Lounge is also perfect for smaller group meetings or functions.

Upcoming events include Shopping Evenings, a Magic evening, and a Rural Arts/Ministry of Entertainment production of Mrs Gerrish's Rear Window – all great fun! Look out for details around the village.

Advertising

#[Advert for J.M.P. Carpentry & Building]

[Advert for Barbara Daw]

[Advert for Deborah Jayne Pringle]

[Advert for Zumba]

[Advert for Elite Financial]

[Advert for Oak Tree Nursery]

#[Advert for Greenline Tanks]

[Advert for Falcon Cottage B&B]

[Advert for Charfield Post Office]

[Advert for Eclipse Hair Studio]

[Advert for Bradley Garage]

[Advert for The Edge Health & Beauty Centre]

#[Advert for W.S. Franks]

[Advert for Pat Jeanes Reflexology]

[Advert for Claire Saunders]

[Advert for Colin Lane Carpet & Flooring]

[Advert for Littles Curtains]

[Advert for T.W. Services]

#[Advert for Acucare]

[Advert for RK Aerials]

[Advert for Manor Garden Maintenance]

[Advert for PC Repairs & Maintenance]

[Advert for Alan Hamer driving]

#[Advert for Add Plant]

[Advert for Kopperz]

[Advert for Ashworthy Cattery]

[Advert for D.R. Vizard]

[Advert for The Farmers Table]

[Advert for Tree Care]

#[Advert for Cotswold Edge Carpets]

[Advert for New Street Garage]

[Advert for At Home Curtains & Blinds]

[Advert for Relax-ology]

#[Advert for Evergreen Computing]

[Advert for Plumbtec]

[Advert for I-Vitae]

#[Advert for P.T.Newnes]

[Advert for Steve Green Photography]

[Advert for Octavia's Nails & Beauty]

[Advert for Charfield Memorial Hall]

[Advert for Red Hot Catering]

October
20 October Big Sing – 1st session 10–12 Primary School
26th OCTOBER 7–11 Night of Magic Memorial Hall
ON THE 28TH OCTOBER THE CLOCKS GO BACK ONE HOUR

NOVEMBER
Friends of Charfield Primary Fireworks Night – Friday 2nd November
3rd November Big Sing – 2nd Session
Sunday 4 November All Souls' Day 3–6pm St John's Church
Remembrance Sunday – 11 November Butties at village hall 9.45am
Tuesday 20th November SAFER STRONGER COMMUNITY GROUPS, 7.30pm Tortworth Estate
23 Nov Xmas Fair St John's Church 6–9.30
Saturday 24th November Memorial Hall Mrs Gerrish's rear window 7.30
Saturday 25th November Wotton Charities Fair Civic Centre 10–4

December
1st December Scouts Xmas Fair Cromhall HQ
2 December Sunday 4pm, Christingle, service St John's
Saturday 8th December Friends of Charfield Primary Christmas Fair
Sunday December 9th 1–4 CADS Christmas Coffee afternoon Sportsman's lounge
Sunday 16 December 4pm, Carol Service at St John's
Sunday 16th December PRE SCHOOL JINGLE BELLS Santa is to tour the village on his float
Saturday 22 December 7pm, candlelit service at St James's, Churchend
Monday 24 December 11.30, Midnight Mass

JANUARY 2013
CADS 2013 Pantomime ‘Babes In the Wood’ Charfield village hall on the 25/26th January.

28

If you wish to alter the entries below, please telephone Isabel on 01454 26xxxx
or email xxxx @ gmail.com

British Legion
David Millman (Hon Sec) 01454 26xxxx

CADS (Charfield Amateur Dramatics Group)
Steve Picking 07583 56xxxx

Charfield Pre-School
Debra Davidson (Manager/Admissions) 07966 61xxxx
Email:- xxxx @ gmail.com
Katherine Edwards (Chair) 01454 26xxxx

Charfield Primary School
Dafydd Lawday 01454 26xxxx

Childminders
Hazel Stone 01454 26xxxx

Church – Congregational
Nicky Lanyi 01454 26xxxx

Church – St. John's
Rev Chris Mason

Council – Charfield Parish
Hannah C Saunders (Clerk) 01454 29xxxx
Email clerk @ charfieldparishcouncil.co.uk

Council – South Gloucestershire
John O'Neill 01454 26xxxx
Email xxxx @ southglos.gov.uk

Cricket Club
Chris Shearwood 01454 77xxxx

Crimestoppers 0800 555 111

Friends of Charfield Primary School
Tim Skuse (Chair) 01454 26xxxx

Foundation Room
Bryan Grantham 01454 26xxxx

Junior Football Club
Nigel Cloke 01454 26xxxx

Keep Fit Club
Christine Parfitt 01454 26xxxx

Luncheon Club for the Elderly
Jane Higgins 01454 26xxxx

Memorial Hall
Bookings 07774 41xxxx
Email www.charfield.org
Chairman Tim Hill 01454 26xxxx