Bride Valley News
August 2000 | Index |
| Church Service Times | |
| From The Clergy | |
| Main BVN menu | Church Calender - This month |
| Valley Notes - all the other 'whats on' bits | |
| Burton Bradstock - The Church + other village organisations | |
| Swyre | |
| Puncknowle & West Bexington | |
| Litton Cheney | |
| Long Bredy | |
| Littlebredy | |
| Shipton Gorge | |
| Chilcombe | |
| Diary of Events for all Parishes - This month - check it out |
FROM THE CLERGY
"The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence."
I am writing this article in early July sitting in a holiday cottage overlooking farmland not far from Caen in Normandy. My father, brother, wife and I all thought a short foreign break necessary after my daughter's wedding, and never really considered looking in Britain. We ferried over to Cherbourg from Poole on a Sunday afternoon with our car's fuel tank less than a quarter full, to take advantage of cheaper French prices. We went for 50 miles before we came across a roadside garage, and really thought we were going to run out. Next we got badly delayed in a traffic jam at Bayeux, and finally on that Sunday could not find anywhere to eat out because it was too late, and everybody was watching France v Italy (fortunately France won).
The next day we went off exploring, contracted a puncture and ended up replacing both our front tyres. Attempting to do a bit of financial administration, we found that lundi en France is a bad day for business. And today (Tuesday) we have been woken by thunder, the clouds are low and heavy, it is raining steadily and the milk's gone off. Back in Litton Cheney the view would be better, fresh milk a minute away, no doubt it would be sunny, and we could understand the radio. How ironic that in England we thought we would prefer the other side of the Channel, and now vice versa.
A few weeks ago I was privileged to take the funeral of Burton Bradstock farmer, Dennis Hawkins. He had only been to London once, and considered Dorchester almost out of range. He felt no need to look over the fence, and was a contented man. Quite simply he was happy with what he had, whereas we are constantly being exhorted not to be happy with what we have, but always to be replacing, collecting, travelling further, never to be satisfied.
A verse from the psalms : "Be still, and know that I am God".
Anthony Ashwell
(P.S. Now back in Dorset, we look back on a stimulating break!)
Church Calendar - August 2000
5 Oswald, King of Northumbria, Martyr, 642.
6 The Transfiguration of our Lord. Luke 9, v.28-36.
7 John Mason Neale, Priest, Hymn Writer, 1866.
8 Dominic, Priest, Founder of the Order of Preachers,1221.
9 Mary Sumner, Founder of the Mothers' Union, 1921.
10 Laurence, Deacon at Rome, Martyr, 258.
11 Clare of Assisi, Founder of the Minoresses (Poor Clares), 1253.
John Henry Newman, Priest, Tractarian, 1890.
13 The Eighth Sunday after Trinity.
14 Maximilian Kolbe, Friar, Martyr, 1941.
15 The Blessed Virgin Mary. Luke 1, v.46-55.
20 The Ninth Sunday after Trinity.
20 Bernard, Abbot of Clairvaux, Teacher, 1153.
William & Catherine Booth, Founders of the Salvation Army, 1912 & 1890.
24 Bartholomew the Apostle. Matthew 10, v.1-22.
27 The Tenth Sunday after Trinity.
27 Monica, Mother of Augustine of Hippo, 387. 28 Augustine, Bishop of Hippo, Teacher, 430.
29 The Beheading of John the Baptist. Matthew 14, v.1-12.
30 John Bunyan, Spiritual Writer, 1688.
31 Aidan, Bishop of Lindisfarne, Missionary, 651.
Rosemary Earnshaw
Burton Bradstock School
I've almost missed the deadline for handing in copy to the B.V.N. It's the Thursday of Millennium Week and my feet haven't touched the ground, so apologies, dear reader, if this article appears a little hasty.
You will be reading this in August, in holiday mode hopefully, so a holiday anecdote that I cleverly weave into a current educational story sounds like it may be on the menu.
Hmmm.... Oh yes! A few years ago Barbara and I took the girls to the Dordogne for a holiday. Those of you lucky enough to have visited this lovely area will know that a highlight is to hire a canoe at one town and drift gently downstream, passing limestone grottoes and striking castles as you let your hand trail soothingly in the cool river water blah...blah...
Arriving at Beynac we saw such a base and resolved to let the girls enjoy this idyllic journey. My eye was, however, caught by a sign that proclaimed that you could hire the canoes for half price providing you returned them to Beynac. Never one to look a bargain in the bouche I persuaded my increasingly sceptical family to go for it, using the time-honoured technique of bribery with ice creams.
As the owner pushed us off from the little jetty on the riverbank I waved back at him. He smiled back, sadly I thought, as he stuffed the wad of francs in his pocket and wished us 'Bon Voyage'. We were in two canoes and Barbara and I put our heads down and leant into the paddles as we headed upstream. We resolved to paddle upstream for half an hour then let the current waft us back to Beynac.
Twenty minutes later, my arms bulging with effort and sweat dripping off my nose, I called across to Barbara offering words of encouragement. She had turned a strange shade of red and seemed to look straight through me. Uh oh, I thought, I hope the journey back to Beynac makes it all worth while. I then realised that it wasn't me she was looking at. Swivelling my head around to follow her slightly manic gaze I found myself looking unbelievably at the owner standing on the jetty, still smiling sadly. He shrugged his shoulders and I'm sure I caught the strains of 'The Marseillaise' being whistled softly as he strolled casually away.
A quick tie in with education. Easy! I sit here surrounded by mountains of bureaucratic bumf, paddling against the current of Government initiatives and yet I am being driven forward by the ice cream of challenged and happy children and enormous wages. Do I progress up the river of life? I do believe so or I wouldn't do the job that I do. would I.
Happy hols!
David Powell
Lucky 100 club winners for June
£20 Greta Heal
£10 Mr and Mrs Price
£5 Colin Peter
Thorner's School, Litton Cheney
Having survived the end of term and all the traditions at Thorner's we can all enjoy the summer break. We have said a very sad farewell to our year 6 pupils, Anna, Becky, Flo, Kayleigh, Laura, Mareisha, Jamie, Joe, John, Tom C, Tom D, Tom P. (Next year I shall only have one Tom to talk to thank goodness! Why did everyone name their boys TOM that year?) I have only known them a year but what an impression they have made..I will not forget them that easily. I would like to thank them for being so helpful and considerate when I first started at Thorner's. We would like to congratulate them all for surviving their SATS, obtaining the levels they did and preparing such an unforgettable leavers' service on the last day of term. Take care, work hard in Sir John Colfox, make the most of your opportunities and may God bless you and keep you safe throughout the future years.
During our last half-term class 4 visited Leeson House, yet another adventure for me. What a beautiful spot it is situated in, the weather was kind, activities varied and the staff so welcoming. The whole of the class enjoyed the trip. I have included some thoughts from the pupils.
'..We had room inspections and there were points out of ten. The wake up bell was at 7.30am and room inspections at 8.00am, so there was only half an hour to get ready. Sam (one of the staff), examined our room and checked for every detail. Sam said he hasn't yet given 10 out of 10... and he didn't!' wrote Flo and Kayleigh.
'On the second day we had to find out where we were on our walk to Langton Matravers. We had to keep our map the right way up by using a compass. We took a long walk back via The Priests Way.' reported Oliver and Robert.
Mariesha and Rebecca enjoyed the Fossils of the Future activity '..We looked at fossils, one fossil in particular was a fish. There were different types of fossils, dinosaur footprints, fossilized wood and an ammonite. We had to think of five things that would not rot and could become a fossil in the future..' I wonder what you would have chosen?
Alison Johnstone Headteacher.
Bride Valley Scout Group
Fundraising continues towards our new premises, with over £180 raised in Bucky Doo Square in June. We have received a pledge of financial help from The Brit Valley Rotary Club, with the money to be passed over as soon as building work commences. Our thanks to all the members. We were also fortunate to be given an anonymous donation of £100 recently.
The latest initiative in our fundraising campaign is a sponsored walk by the Venn family (Dave, Karen, Paul and Rebecca), who plan to walk up to 163 miles of the South West Coast Path from Minehead to Padstow. We wish them lots of luck and no blisters! If you would like to sponsor them, please sign one of the forms, which are available in the Anchor Pub or the Post Office. Details of the walk are also on the village website.
At the time of writing this, our week of Millennium celebrations and events is just beginning here in Burton Bradstock, and we are very grateful to have been promised financial support from several groups and individuals taking part, details to follow next month.
Don't forget to come along to the 'Garden Party' at John and Veda Bull's home in Grove Road, Burton Bradstock at 2pm on Sunday 20th August, details below.
Finally, you will be pleased to know that most of the items given for our various bric-a-brac stalls have now been sold, so please call 897695 if you have any unwanted items you could give to us and arrangements will be made to collect them, thank you.
Thank you to everyone in the Bride Valley for your continuing support, to date you have helped our group to raise nearly £10,000 towards our new premises, which is wonderful!
Steve Dove
Chairman BVSG
A Scout Jamboree!! or is it a Jam-bor-tea??
John and Veda Bull are holding a 'Garden Party' at their home in Grove Road, Burton Bradstock at 2.00pm on Sunday 20th August. There will be stalls selling cakes, books, plants and bric-a-brac as well as children's games, a cake raffle, a general raffle, name the doll and refreshments available. Entrance will be 20p for adults and children free. John and Veda are very kindly donating all proceeds from this afternoon to the 'Bride Valley Scout Group New Hut Appeal'. Please try and support this event.
Directions to the garden are: From St Mary's Church, take the short walk down Darby Lane until you reach the junction with Grove Road. The garden gate will then be straight ahead of you.
On the Move
The West Dorset Mencap 'BITS' shop has recently re-located to East Street, into the shop formerly known as Bedknobs and Broomsticks. Due to the success of Bridport's only 'local charity' shop, over the last 15 years, we have moved to larger premises. Customers old and new are visiting our new premises on the look out for the many bargains on sale. Donations of goods for sale are always welcomed and can be left at the shop during opening hours, or alternatively collections can be arranged by telephoning the manager on 01308-421616. Shop opening hours have been extended and are: - Mon, Tues, Wed and Fri 9.30am-4.30pm, closed all day Thursday and open on Saturday 9.30am-3.30pm.
Lesley Dove
Hon Secretary West Dorset Mencap
Ann and Mike Read invite you to a PIANO RECITAL which will take place in the WI Hall. Burton Bradstock. on Thursday 10th August at 7.30pm. A young Romanian pianist, Ionut Ulita, who is in this country to attend the Dartington Summer School will play works by Mozart, Bach, Chopin, Enescu. Liszt and Rachmaninov. Admission £3 payable at the door.
Dorset Historic Churches Trust Sponsored Cycle Ride
This year's ride is on Saturday 9th September and anyone on a bicycle, on foot or on a horse is welcome to join in and raise funds for the Trust and their chosen church through sponsorship and visiting local churches. Half the money raised goes to the Trust and half to the nominated church for spending as needed on the building. A list of churches to visit and sponsorship forms can be collected from the St.Mary's and St.Peter's Churches. Patrick Frost had been planning to join Freddie Spicer and Ian Slark to better last year's total of 35 churches visited. In Patrick's memory Freddie and Ian intend to pedal for this target and the parish share of money raised will be divided equally between St Mary's Litton Cheney and St Peter's Long Bredy. Please respond generously to a request for sponsorship.
No, Othona is Not a Nudist Colony
Amazing how rumours stick, isn't it? Way back in the mists of time, the nudist label was attached to the Othona Community ... and although it was never true, we still occasionally hear it! So what is Othona in fact?
You probably know where we are. On the coast road, half way between Bufton Bradstock and Swyre, there's a big stone house and some timber cottages in wooded surroundings. Since 1965 this has been the second centre of the Othona Community. Right after the Second World War, Othona was established as a network of people who tried to meet together each summer - originally under canvas - as an experiment in Christian Community. In wartime conditions they'd experienced a depth of fellowship that they wanted to preserve. So Othona had two founding passions. It worked for ecumenism - that is, people from different churches getting together, which was very unusual at the time. It also promoted international reconciliation, including German members from day one. Our first centre was (and is) at Bradwell-on-Sea in Essex.
By 1965 we were looking for a 'second home'. We heard of a community settlement in Dorset .... minus a community! The Community of Christian Contemplatives, set up in the 20s, had died out in 1960, leaving buildings and land at the mercy of the brambles. Known locally as the 'white ladies' (because of their hand-woven white habits) they were stoutly independent women. They lived a regime based on self-sufficiency and silent prayer. With no gas, electricity, mains water or flush toilets, they had left a very 'basic' property.
We've installed various 'mod cons' over the years, but we aim to keep a spirit of simplicity. Our emphasis has changed too: hundreds of visitors join us each year. In a follow-up article I'll tell you more. But why not see for yourself'? We have an Open Day on August Bank Holiday Monday. All ages welcome. Clothing optional (no, I'm just joking!)
Tony Jaques (Warden of Othona)
WALKING IS FOR EVERYONE
SUMMER GUIDED WALKS
Saturday, 19 August- Sunday 27 August 2000
As their part in a national event, the four Dorset Area Groups invite you to join them in a special programme of guided walks and dispel the idea that only very long and difficult walks are offered. 1 August has been chosen as it is a holiday month and we hope for better weather! This is an ideal way to try walking with an organised group and see the secret places of Dorset. The programme starts with a Family Walk on Sunday, 20 August. Meet at 2.00 pm at Manor Farm Godmanstone on the A352 between Charminster and Cerne Abbas for a 3 mile walk from an organic farm. Bring all the family but dogs on leads. Snack and drink needed for mid-walk break. Contact for further information 01305 834575.
A further eight walks are offered during the period. For a copy of the special leaflet giving details of each walk and which also incorporates a 20% membership discount form please contact 01305 263759 (after 7.00 pm) or write to RA, 19 Shaston Crescent, Dorchester DT1 2EB, preferably with a stamped addressed envelope.
Pilsdon Community
Reg. Charity No. 261139
THANK YOU Midsummer's Day in June witnessed the completion of our 5 year Development Programme, here at Pilsdon. We celebrated the raising and spending £700,000 on restoring, refurbishing and re-ordering the Church and Manor House by inviting the Bishop of Salisbury to come and re-dedicate the church and its new altar, floor and roof (it has been unused for the last 12 months after a fire) and bless the Manor, with its new roof, windows, floors, wiring and plumbing. The Church was anointed with oil and sprinkled with water and incense, as was the house. We celebrated with the Eucharist (Holy Communion) and eating and drinking (no alcohol, as we are a dry house) throughout the day, as well as making music of all kinds, including dancing in the evening and ending with the reflective stillness of a candlelight service in the round in the church, where we started. Eucharist means giving thanks, and that is what we did in different ways all day. Thank you to all the people of the Bride Valley, with all its villages, who have generously supported us, whether directly or indirectly, as we received two-thirds of our funding through the Lottery Charities and Heritage Funds.
LIFESTYLE At Easter this year, I was invited to an international workshop in Sri Lanka, where people from churches and communities from all 6 continents of the world discussed and reflected on the relationships between the affluent North and poor South of our world. I came away with the message that the world cannot sustain the growing affluence of the North, both in environmental terms and at the cost of great suffering in the South. I admired the self-sufficiency of poor communities in Sri Lanka,especially the small fishing communities near where I stayed, but our huge appetite for prawns all the year round was even threatening those fishermens' livelihoods, because of the factory ships and farms that provide our luxury food. Maybe we need to 'live more simply so that all may simply live' and communities like Pilsdon can demonstrate alternative more self-sufficient lifestyles.
INVITATION Do come and visit us, to see how your money has been spent on our newly refurbished church and house. You are welcome anytime, but a good time to come is for tea on Sunday at 4.30pm followed by our sung evening service at 6.30pm with supper afterwards.
This is how I visited Pilsdon for the first time, when on holiday in Charmouth over 20 years ago!
Fr. Peter Barnett, Warden of the Pilsdon Community
Parkinsons Disease Society (Bridport Branch)
Our local branch gives a welfare service to some 30 sufferers in the area, many of whom are homebound and lonely. We believe there are another 50/60 out there who don't know or don't want to know how we can help them. We are not asking for money as our welfare generates donations and 'in memoriam' payments from grateful kin. This funding is vital for our service which includes visits, outings, supply of equipment and, most importantly, recognising a problem which we might solve with help from our excellent local authorities. What we do need is 'volunteer helpers' - a dying breed it seems. The work is interesting and satisfying, if you are under-stretched. All out of pocket expenses are reimbursed.
Contact Norman Foster, Tel.897555
Village Correspondent Mr Basil Dent
2, Norburton, Burton Bradstock. Tel:- (01308) 897125
Mid Week Worship - Holy Communion Wednesdays at 10.00 a.m. followed by coffee in the Rectory
Choir Practices Fridays at 6.00 p.m.
Gift Sunday 20th August Church Mission Society
There will be no Tiny Tots / Pram Service this month. The next Tiny Tots / Pram Service will be held on Friday 15th September.
The next Healing Services at St Mary's will be in church on Wednesdays 9th August, 27th September and 18th October ( St Luke's Day ), each at 7.00 pm..
FROM THE PARISH REGISTERS
Funeral 5th July Vera M. Harris ( at Weymouth Crematorium; and on 7th July at St Mary's Church a Thanksgiving Service for her life)
St. Mary's Church Fete
A warm welcome awaits our readers and holidaymakers to the Rectory Garden on Thursday 3rd August at 2.00 p.m. There will be the usual variety of stalls and numerous sideshows, including Bouncy Castle and Punch & Judy.
Birthday 2000 Sunday 9th July was a memorable day, with hundreds of people joining in the various events in the marquee celebrating Jesus' birth and 2000 years of Christianity, and visiting the exhibition and flowers in church.
The Family Communion in the marquee was attended by over 220 people. There was a good lunch, and crowds came to see the Burton Bradstock School's JC 2000 performance and afterwards Wilbur the Grate, sharing a magnificent birthday cake at the following tea. In the evening Lance Pierson presented to a large audience his penetratingly amusing one-man show, with Paul Cheater at the keyboard.
It was a great day, into which much effort had been put by many, many people. Warmest thanks go to everyone involved in the planning and preparation, in running and attending the day, and to those who made substantial donations towards the cost of flowers and the events of Sunday.
John Atkinson
BURTON BRADSTOCK MUSIC FESTIVAL : 18th and 19th AUGUST
I am delighted to announce that there will be a Music Festival this year, albeit in shortened form, on 18th and 19th August in St Mary's church.
The celebrated clarinetist Thea King O.B.E. will perform the Mozart Clarinet Quintet on Friday 18th August and David Juritz will be with us again to play the Bach A minor Violin Concerto on Saturday 19th August. Many of the players from previous years will also be taking part.
Tickets will be on sale at the Burton Bradstock Post Office from Monday 24th July. Mary Ryan
Report on the Burton Bradstock Village Society Flower & Produce Show
8th July 2000
By 9:00am the Women's Institute Hall was in full flow as all the exhibits were being placed in their various categories. Unfortunately, the lack of certain categories like tomatoes were a sad reflection of this year's weather. However, this was more than made up by the quality of the other produce on show. After the judging everybody took a short break to congregate at the church for the Burton Bradstock Millennium Village photograph.
2.15pm It was back to the serious business as the above re-opened and everyone arrived to see whether their efforts had been rewarded.
The children once again contributed with their art display including a colourful butterfly by pre-school children.
The President, Mrs Nancy Bushall, congratulated everyone and thanked Mrs Jane Stubbs and her helpers for all their hard work.
Nancy then proceeded to present the trophies to the following:
Mr John Ball - Louis/May Brown Cup for the most outstanding vegetable entry.
Mrs Kathy Sadd - The Bugler Cup for the best rose exhibit.
Mrs Julie Cole for the Cracroft Challenge Cup for the best flower other than roses.
Mrs Daphne Hewlett - The Gordon Knight Cup for the best pot plant.
Mrs Susan Paul - The Flower Arranger Trophy.
Mrs Rachel Haley - The Cookery & Home Produce Trophy.
Class 3 Burton Bradstock School - The Grove House Cup for the most outstanding year entry.
Mrs Joan Allen - The Knightsmith Trophy for preserves.
Mrs Kathy Sadd - -rhe Mallinson Cup for handicraft.
Mrs Sheila Spencer-Smith - for the Photography Cup.
Mrs Joan Dady - The Millennium Trophy for the best art exhibit.
Other first prize winners were:
Children Age four to six - Francesca Baker
Age seven to eight - Charlotte Sutton Age nine to eleven - James Brown
Wine Bottle of home-made wine (dry) - Mrs J Wotherspoon Bottle of home-made wine (sweet) - Mrs J Wotherspoon
Cookery & Home Produce:
Jar of jam - Mrs M Holmes
Jar of jelly - Mrs J Allen
Jar of marmalade - Mrs J Allen
Jar of chutney or pickle - Mrs J Allen
Loaf of bread - Mrs J Allen
Chocolate cake - Mrs L M Brown
Victoria Sandwich - Mrs A Rees
Lemon Cake - Mrs R. Haley
Shortbread pieces - Miss G.Redford
Cheese Scones - Mrs L Dove
Apple Pie - Mrs L M Brown
Quiche - Mrs M Frost
Rock Cakes - Mrs R Haley
Open Floral Arrangements:
Celebration of the new Millennium - Mrs S Paul
An arrangement of herbs & grasses - Mrs F Dales
A miniature arrangement - Miss H Mousley
0pen Classes
Courgettes - Mr D J Cole
Carrots - Mr J H Bull
Beetroot - Mr D J Cole
Broad Beans - Miss G Redford
Potatoes - Mr J H Bull
Onions - Mr W J Hunt
Peas - Mr J D Cole
Cabbage - Mrs J Watherspoon
Rhubarb - Mr J H Bull
Lettuce - Mr D Maude
Spring Onions - Mr J H Bull
Any vegetable not named above - Mr K Pett
Strawberries - Mrs J Wotherspoon
Raspberries - Miss H Mousley
Gooseberries - Mr R West
Redcurrants - Mr G Spencer-Smith
Blackcurrants - Mr R Sexton
Any exhibit of any fruit not named above - Mr R Seebohm
Pot plant (flowering) - Mrs D Hewlett
Pot plant (foliage) - Mrs J Sexton
Bloom of HT rose - Mrs K Sadd
Five blooms of roses - Mr G Spencer-Smith
Floribunda roses - Mrs J Tillman
Pansy blooms - Mrs S Spencer-Smith
Clematis bloom - Miss G Redford
Sweet Peas - Mrs A Maude
Hydrangea - Mrs J Cole
Vase of perennial flowers - Miss G Redford
Vase/Bowl of annual/biennial flowers - Mrs S Gilbert
Vase/Bowl of flowers grown from bulb, tubers etc - Mr R. Sexton
Vase/Bowl flowering shrubs - Mrs A Read
Hanging Basket - Miss G Redford
Handicrafts:
Painting or drawing in any medium - Mrs J Dady
Tapestry/cross stitch/embroidery picture - Mrs K Sadd
Home-crafted (soft item) - Mrs A Read
Home-crafted (hardware item) - Mr G Cook
Photography
Colour print of tree/trees - Mrs S Spencer-Smith
As the show neared its close some of the produce which had not got a NOT FOR SALE sign came under the skilful hammer of Chairman Peter Colbert. It was felt that this year's Millennium Flower & Produce Show was a great success rewarded by an excellent turn out, which even the excitement of Wimbledon couldn't deter.
Graham Hallewell Press Officer
Burton Bradstock Women's Institute
To our great sorrow we have just lost a loyal, dedicated and much loved friend, Vera Harris. Members paid silent tribute to her at the start of the July meeting, reflecting on the significant contribution Vera made to our village and our Institute, particularly with her love of words, poetry, pantomime and cookery. She was held in great affection and will be sadly missed by her many friends. It is entirely appropriate that floral tributes from the Burton Bradstock Players and her own family feature in the Birthday 2000 display in St. Mary's Church during this week's Millennium Festival.
Back in the last Century, the idea of holding a W.I. meeting in a large tent, followed by a Millennium Picnic to which Group members and other guests would be invited, seemed a little ambitious. However, with the Burton Bradstock Millennium Festival in full swing, 56 members and 9 guests made a dash across the playing field to escape the near tropical downpour just before the meeting, putting paid to our hopes for a picnic on the grass. President Wendy Green promised to keep the meeting brief before another 20 or so guests arrived. Tempting treats were served in compact lunch boxes and we were entertained by the delightful West Dorset Accordion Band, dressed in pretty Laura Ashley-type dresses with matching pink mobcaps.
Our W.I. wanted to arrange something special for this week and what a coup for the organising committee! The Marquee, Burton Bradstock's own Millennium Dome, with elegant billowing drapes and chandeliers, provided the perfect setting for A Dorset Evening with The Yetties. Bonny Sartin, Pete Shutler and Mac McCulloch formed the group back in 1967 and this talented trio proved they were good as new, keeping us laughing, tapping and singing along with their jokes, stories, songs and music. Appealing to all ages and tastes with their unique style of entertainment, it is small wonder that they play to packed houses all over the world.
The President and her team are now taking a well earned rest until September, when we hope new members will be tempted to join. 100 Club winners for July were Anne Rees, Nancy Bushell, Brian Pursey and Janet Holmes. Carol Lumley
Vera Harris
Vera's family would like to thank all those who gave them such warm support and sympathy before and after her death. 'We know how much she loved her 22 years with you in Burton Bradstock.'
A letter of thanks from Lynn Lingley
To my very dear friends,
What a wonderful 98th birthday you gave me on 13th June! The postman, when delivering the post, remarked that it would keep me employed all the morning to read and register the names of all who sent me greetings. And what lovely cards they are! Quite breathtaking. I shall treasure all 53 cards and show them off with pride and thanksgiving for so many friends - nay, more than friends: brothers and sisters!
Thank you all for your love and kindness to me. I pray God's blessing to you all. Yours very sincerely...............
Coffee Morning at the Rectory
This will be on 17th August 10 - 12 noon. Albanian Crafts will be on sale and you will have a chance to find out about Albania from Heather & Ryder Rogers.
Royal British Legion Women's Section - Summer Sale
This will take place on Thursday 17th August at 2.00 p.m. in the W.I.Hall. Stalls, Raffle, Refreshments. Jean Still
Burton Bradstock Players
As several key members of the production team are retiring or will not be available for a production next year the society is seeking replacements from the Bride Valley to undertake the jobs of Musical Director, Set Designer/Constructor, Costume Designer and Wardrobe Mistress as these posts will need to be filled before any consideration can be given to next year's production. Anyone interested in working in any of these vital roles for the Players next show, or joining in any capacity, is invited to contact the Chairman Mike Southgate on 897487 or any other member of the committee ( Andrea Wilkinson, John Tillman, Mike Read, Mary Bailey or Brenda Dubrey.)
Congratulations to all those involved in the Burton Bradstock Festival Week...to the Parish Council for master-minding this unique event and to all the individual concerns for their hard work and enthusiasm. From Birthday 2000 ( and were it not for the momentous event 2000 years ago we would not have had the excuse to celebrate! ) to the spectacular firework display on Saturday night we all had a wonderful week. Thank you, too, to everyone in the Valley who gave their support.
Village Correspondent: Mrs.Gilly Doar
Paddock Lodge Swyre
Songs of Praise Services : don't forget that on every August Sunday at 7.30pm there is a short (35 minute) Songs of Praise in Church. We sing 8 well known hymns; there are short prayers, a Bible reading and a poem, and Paul Cheater has agreed to play the organ. Do come along!
Swyre Parish Meeting
At the last meeting of Swyre Parish held on the 27th June 2000, the matter of the future of the Parish Meeting was discussed, and various options were considered.
The option chosen by those present was to seek a grouping with a neighbouring parish council. This will mean that we will no longer have a Chairperson/ Clerk in the village, but have representation within the parish council grouping.
This decision was taken with great sadness, but as there was no one available or willing to take over from the present Chairperson it was inevitable that a radical solution would have to be found.
Since we are most closely associated with Puncknowle and West Bexington, it was decided to approach that Parish Council, with a view to joining with them as a group.
At the July meeting of Puncknowle and West Bexington Parish Council it was agreed in principal that a grouping order be sought, after consultations and discussions between the villages and West Dorset District Council have taken place.
Several Swyre villagers were present at the Puncknowle and West Bexington Parish Council Meeting and were heartened by the welcome we were shown, and the unhesitating agreement to discuss the matter.
Let us look forward to the strengthening of ties between the villages and the mutual support we can give one to another, rather than look back with regret. Madeline Marshall
Welcome
Owen and Suki Day have moved into Fernswell with their two children, Alastair who is three and Jamie eighteen months.
Congratulations
Nigel Yates has recently graduated with a 2:1 from Bath University. He has gained a BSc (Hons) in Business Administration.
Village Correspondent: Mrs Dorothy Barlow
Collingbourne, Hoopers Lane, Puncknowle
Telephone: (01308) 897761
On Sunday July 2nd a work-party and picnic lunch after the family service made a good impression on the Churchyard - weeding - cutting back the hedge - carting away the rubbish.
Many thanks to the Fry and Jevons families, Lauren and Danielle. Also thanks to Sally Jevons who helped me clear the roadside wall of the Church Hall - a hard slog.
BUS SHELTER
This has been completely refurbished by Alan Fry over the last few weeks. A great improvement which is much appreciated.
I wonder how many people saw two Buddhist monks walking in the Bride Valley on Monday 27th June? About 9.00 p.m. they were in Puncknowle and went into the Church. A short time later they were standing by the lychgate when they spotted my open door and literally made a dash for it, relieved to find some sign of life in the village. They asked me to fill their water bottles. I enquired to which order they belonged and was told that they were Buddhist and came from a Monastery in Midhurst and were walking to a sister Monastery in Honiton. They said, "We are occasionally allowed to do such things!" They enquired whether there was a Vicarage and the answer being "no" they said that what they needed was a patch of green on which to pitch their tent. While I filled their bottles I thought about it and offered them my orchard. Having warned the near neighbours I left them for the night. MY one regret is that I did not think to ask if I could take a photograph. They were such an unusual sight, with their tanned shaven heads, saffron habits and duffle-type bags to match. They were last seen on their way at 8.00 a.m. next morning.
Ann Roberts
Puncknowle Art Group
Puncknowle Art Group would like to say how much they miss their wonderful friend, artist and former treasurer Jane Ross. It was with great sadness that we learnt of her death on 25th June. Her funeral was sunny and there were many funny stories to be had of her. As we sat in her garden where we had previously painted together, we shared many fond memories of her.
Christine Molony
Village Correspondents:
Mrs. Gaynor Jones, 10 Manor Farm Close Tel.482517
Mrs. Elizabeth Kingston, 5 Manor Farm Close Tel.482384
From the Registers
Funeral 3rd July 2000 Sheila Jane A. Ross
Dorset Historic Churches Trust Sponsored Cycle Ride
Please see entry in Valley Notes page 7
LITTON CHENEY PARISH COUNCIL - CHAIRMAN'S REPORT 1999/2000
Since the uncontested elections in May 1999 we believe we have completely reformed the Council and are on our way to achieving a good "best value" status. On a precept of only £ 1,500 our activities in the last year have briefly been as follows: -
1. Adopted Council Standing Orders and Financial Regulations.
2. Negotiated with Dorset County Council to introduce traffic calming measures, and road safety improvements, resulting in the Village name and pedestrians in road signs.
3. Initiated the removal of a derelict vehicle.
4. Initiated road repairs.
5. Commenced the revitalisation of the children's playing field, including making application for a Millennium Grant.
6. Assessed village need and support for a viable Village Shop, and social housing. Unfortunately West Dorset District Planning Authority and English Heritage have obstructed this project, inspite of an appeal to our MP Dr Oliver Letwin who personally attended a site meeting.
7. Raised the profile of the Council in the village, installing an extra notice board at the south end of the village, and replacing the old village notice board that had suffered badly from neglect.
8. Contributed to the Local District Plan Review.
9. Commented on the Dorset Policing Policy, and West Dorset District Council "best value report".
10. Considered nine local planning applications and returned comments on four.
I hope you will agree that this justifies the existence of at least Litton Cheney Parish Council, and that it is very good value for money. In claiming this credit we give many thanks for all the advice and assistance give by our Dorset County Councillor, West Dorset District Councillor, and the County Director of the Dorset Association of Parish and Town Councils (DAPTC).
The Millennium Committee met on 19 May 2000 to review the Millennium Party and to consider its future role.
It was unanimously agreed that the evening had been an outstanding success, due not least to the generosity of Eddy and Sheila Fry in allowing us to use their garden. As at the date of the meeting, the Committee's funds totalled £670 and the 120 unsold mugs should in due course raise a further £420, making a total of approximately £1,100. If anyone wants to buy more mugs, please ask Eddy Fry or Gerald Cuzens.
It was agreed to use approximately £5/600 of this sum to replace the trestle tables in the Church Hall and to put the balance of about £500 aside to use as a float for future village functions.
It was agreed to wind up the committee and reconstitute the Litton Cheney Social Committee with the same membership. The Social Committee will manage the Harvest Supper on Saturday, September 7th; a planning meeting will be held on Tuesday 22 August at The Cottage at 7.30pm There was provisional agreement to hold another evening party at the Bank Holiday weekend in May 2001.
Hugh Lindsay
WOMEN'S INSTITUTE
Disappointingly, in July an evening of instruction in the garden of Litton potter, Mollie Gardener, had to be abandoned having already been postponed the previous week due to bad weather. President Elinor Frost instead hosted a meeting at her home to discuss a number of matters before the summer break.
The June outing was to Compton Acres, where members spent a most enjoyable afternoon admiring the plants and gardens. The visit culminated with a cream tea and a visit to the plant shop, where many members took the opportunity to purchase additions to their own gardens.
The Carol Service will this year be held at St. Mary's, Litton Cheney, which will be organised by the Institute. A number of members offered to undertake various duties, with one volunteering her husband as organist.
In October the outing will be to see Sweet Chariot at the Octagon Theatre in Yeovil and names were taken for this.
The Branch has been asked to supply lunch for those taking part in the tour of church organs in the Bride Valley for recitals by Elizabeth Thornburn. With around eighty-five lunches to prepare, this discussion took up a large part of the meeting but the menu was finally decided, hopefully providing an enjoyable meal for the participants.
The next meeting will be on September 5th at 7.30 p.m. in Litton Cheney, when members look forward to hearing Barbara Whillock telling "Tales of Dorset". Mrs. B.Champkins
Pins Knoll
Coffee Morning in aid of Joseph Weld Hospice
Our sincere thanks to Nancy Vicars and Rachel Greysfield for organising an extremely successful Coffee Morning on 29th June in aid of the Joseph Weld Hospice. Their garden, on what turned out to be a glorious sunny day proved ideal for a successful and relaxed event which raised £450. We are deeply grateful to Nancy and Rachel and to the many who contributed to the success of the morning, especially the cakes & preserves makers and all those who donated items for sale and the Raffle. Finally we would like to thank all who attended for their generous support. The efforts of all were greatly rewarded and much appreciated.
Lavinia Barbour & Reggie Edwards
We wish Jim Izzard a full and speedy recovery after his stay in hospital.
Mr. Ian Colbrook has moved into '3. Litton Hill' and we hope he will be very happy here.
Congratulations to Richard Edwards on gaining his Ph.D after 3 years of Research at the Long Ashton Research Centre. Also to Natash Roots on gaining a 2.1 degree at Cardiff University. We wish her every success in the future.
Village Society
For your diaries 2000 - 2001:
17th Oct. Mr. W.Putnam 'Roman Roads'
21st Nov. Inspector Mason 'Police'
25th Feb. Mr. Stephen Wallis
25th Mar. Mr. Tom Goss 'B.T.C.V.'
All meetings take place on Thursdays at 8.00 p.m. in Thorner's School.
Further details in due course.
Village Correspondents: Mr & Mrs Patrick Frost
Bridelands
Tel ( 01308 ) 482269
From the Registers
Baptism 18th June 2000 Anna Francesca Schwinge
Wedding 17th June 2000 Joanne Pitcher to Ian Cameron
Funeral 16th June 2000 Fred Curran (aged 84)
Fred Curran How sad that 2 days after Patrick Frost, our churchyard gardener until last March, was laid to rest, his predecessor for many years, Fred Curran, was also laid to rest. We extend to Fanny, his widow, our deepest sympathy.
Patrick Frost About 500 people came to Patrick's funeral on 14th June. Need I say more?
A Country Wedding "Four Weddings and a Funeral" would be an understatement for the five days commencing 14th June. We had Patrick's Funeral on Wednesday, then Fred's on Friday, Joanne and Ian's glorious Wedding on Saturday, Anna's Baptism on Sunday morning, the Flower Festival in the afternoon, all ending with Vespers in the early evening. As somebody said, "This is why we need our village Church". The building was beautifully decorated, and many people worked extremely hard to enable the Joseph Weld Hospice and the Church to benefit by at least £500 shared between them. Special thanks to the Flower Ladies and the Village Singers, the junior section of which performed for the first time at Anna's Baptism and Family Service.
Churchyard Gardeners It was with great sadness and also pride that we escorted Patrick's and later Fred's coffin to the northern boundary of the churchyard on their funeral days. The churchyard looked lovely: thank you, Mike and Steve, for carrying on the tradition.
This edition goes to press shortly before the Fete on the 15th July. By now the outcome - and whether the wintry weather of the preceding days cleared up in time - will be known. Further news and thanks next month.
Anthony Ashwell
Congratulations to Nicki and Damian Patterson on the arrival of baby Benjamin at the end of May - a family again at Lattice Cottage.
Best wishes to Joanne Pitcher and Ian Parker on their marriage. The sun shone, and the bride and groom travelled through the village to the Reception in a carriage pulled by two black ponies. We wish Ian and Joanne all happiness in their married life together.
All sympathy (and congratulations too on their great courage and fortitude) to Elinor, Rachel and Sally, who faced Patrick's funeral at St. Peter's in front of what must have been Longbredy's biggest congregation for years. It is estimated that over 500 people came to support them in a last farewell to Patrick, from the worlds in which he had made such a mark: farming, the hunt, cricket, skittles, Rotary, among many others. The Revs. Robin Hungerford from Corscombe, and our own Anthony Ashwell, led a moving service, and interment followed in what must be the most beautiful churchyard resting place for miles around. R.I.P.
Sympathy too to the Curran family, whose funeral for Fred a few days later was quieter, but whose sense of loss is the same. Within a matter of days the churchyard received into its peaceful earth its two most faithful servants over the past many years. Si monumentum requiris, circumspice.* - indeed.
(* = Inscription in St. Paul's Cathedral, with reference to its Architect, Sir Christopher Wren: "To see his memorial, look around you.")
FLOWER FESTIVAL. The cool scent of summer flowers in St. Peter's gave peace and comfort to many families during the week before the Festival, when we bade fond farewells to Patrick Frost and Fred Curran. Extensive planning by Rosemarie Pitcher and Margaret Elliott created a wonderful setting for the marriage of Joanne Pitcher to Ian Parker on the Saturday, and the glorious sunshine continued on Sunday, when Anna Schwinge was given a great welcome at her baptism during the Family Service. She was surrounded by flowers, and serenaded by the Village Singers with Mozart's "Ave Verum Corpus" - deemed too daunting for an Abbey choir in the past!
The Festival itself started at 2.00 p.m., with a constant stream of visitors enjoying the beauty within the Church and the glory of the surrounding hills, as well as the home-made teas and the choice of bargains on the stall.
Vespers at 5.30 p.m. continued the theme of Love and Marriage, with readings from "The Prophet" by Kahlil Gibran, accompanied by the Village Singers. It was a peaceful conclusion to a week of intense emotions, including pleasure at the news of the birth of Benjamin Patterson on Tuesday 12th, and his return home to Lattice Cottage. His record as the youngest visitor to our Flower Festival sets a challenge which will take some beating in future years!
Thanks are due to so many people for their help and support in so many ways. Our Church can never have known such a week in its long history, and proves again that it will always play a central, appreciated and important role in the fundamental aspects of family and community life. We are reminded again, too, that if we all do a bit of what we can, miraculous transformations happen.
Well over £500.00 was raised on the Sunday, and has been shared with the Joseph Weld Hospice. Thank you to all of you who gave so much of your precious time and talents to make the day so happy and successful. J.G.
We welcome Brian and Anne Peppiatt, who, after many months of building alterations at Pitcombe, move there permanently at the end of July. We trust their time among us will be happy and fulfilled.
Otherwise, scant news from within the village has been received this month, so it provides the opportunity to welcome also (retrospectively in one case) the various campers who are temporary residents among us.
At the end of May, the Weymouth East Cub Pack, who have been regular visitors for many years, spent a long weekend on the cricket ground. More recently, some will have been aware of a Scout Troop from Rennes, in Brittany, who are camping on Foxholes Farm as I write. Many thanks to Bernard and Val Fry, who turned their living room into a temporary cinema for the Euro 2000 Final within a few hours of the Frenchmen's arrival. The elation engendered by France's injury-time equalizer and their subsequent winning "golden goal" seems to have kept spirits exceptionally high in the camp, as lusty singing has been serenading all those within earshot every evening since. "Nil points" for quality, despite massive volume, seems to be the general verdict!
Later, the 4th Corfe Mullen Guides (from near Wimborne Minster) will be in the cricket ground for a week at the beginning of August, and we wish them better weather than the others have had!
Village Correspondent: Mrs.Joy White
Eastcote
3 Gullivers Orchard Shipton Gorge
Tel(01308)897974
FROM THE PARISH REGISTERS
Funeral 5th July Ernest G. Gale
SHIPTON GORGE STREET FAIR 2000
AROUND THE NEW INN
FRIDAY 25TH AUGUST
CARIBBEAN FANCY DRESS NIGHT
LETS START THESTREET FAIR WITH A BANG - PRIZES TO BE WON
SATURDAY 26TH AUGUST
STREET FAIR DAY BRIC-A -BRAC, TOMBOLA, JUMBLE SALE
CAKE STALL, BOOKS, PUNCH & JUDY, BOUNCY CASTLE
B.B.Q AND MORE
SUNDAY 27TH AUGUST
CAR BOOT SALE AT THE NEW INN CAR PARK
8.30am - 11.30am
£3.00 PER CAR - TEA/COFFEE AND SNACKS AVAILABLE
SUNDAY EVENING
FINISH THE WEEKEND WITH LIVE MUSIC
BY
DAVID MORLEY
9.00pm TILL LATE
ALL PROCEEDS GO TO THE LOCAL CHILDREN'S PLAYGROUND
AND BRIDE VALLEY SCOUTS
Queen Mother's Cream Tea
There will be a Cream Tea on Thursday 17th August at 3.30 p.m. to celebrate H.M.'s 100th Birthday. It will be based on the Village Hall and the garden of Mr. & Mrs. Jones Apart from scones, jam & cream there will be a slice of the 'Queen Mum's' favourite cake available, plus the recipe! The cost will be £2. Please come and celebrate an event which is dear to the hearts of many of us.
JPE (Churchwarden)
Dedication of Lights in the North Aisle
The Dedication of the new lights will take place at Evensong on Sunday 20th August.
JPE
Flower & Vegetable Show - 12th August
Now that Euro 2000, Henley Regatta and Wimbledon are distant memories, the next big event to look forward to is our Flower and Vegetable Show on 12th August. Please bring your Entries/Exhibits to the Village Hall between 8.00 a.m. and 11.00 a.m.. Then at any time between 11.00 a.m. and 2.00 p.m. cast your vote for class winners. Results will be announced at 3.00 p.m. approx. with the prizegiving at around 4.00 p.m.
Geoff. Shepherd (897490)
Shipton Gorge Hall 100 Club
Winners of the July draw:
£20 No. 52 Joyce Rosamund
£10 No. 2 Pat Tucker
Village Society
The Village Society have produced a Calendar for 2001 with scenes of the village in bygone years. It would make an ideal Christmas gift and is obtainable from: New Inn
Pat Tucker
Burton Bradstock Post Office
Peter Bowditch (897364)
at £3.50 each.
Village Society
A Reminder of the Millennium Party to be held on 5th August
This will be at the Village Hall, starting at 2.00 p.m. There will be Punch & Judy, Bouncy Castle, Music with keyboard player Dave Morley. A glass goblet will be available for each dwelling and an engraved squash glass for each child of sixteen and under. Please donate a plate of food -cakes, sandwiches, sausage rolls, crisps, etc. Come and have an enjoyable afternoon. Families and friends of Shipton residents are most welcome. For more information contact Sally Parker (897168) or Jill Parsons (897324).
The Leonard Cheshire Trust We are very grateful to all in the village who contributed to the house-to-house collection which raised £125.64. Geoffrey Howlett
FROM THE PARISH REGISTERS
Marriage 24th June Guy J. Clatworthy and Joanna M. Burt