Bride Valley News
January 2003 |
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| Diary of Events for all Parishes - This month - check it out |
Here beginneth another year. How we look at it probably depends on our age.
A child may see it in terms of more: more body, more strength, more games, more energy, more influence, and more years for more exams.
A young adult may also see it in terms of increase: salary, opportunity, travel, friends, family, and even in secure relationships. This year we are in the Bride Valley, at the last count, to have at least ten Church Weddings, the most for several years.
An older adult may measure it in terms of challenge using the child's list: to stay the same weight, to remain strong, nimble and energetic; to continue to be listened to and to find time for hobbies and interests.
In retirement, the child's list in reverse may apply, and we see the year in terms of less.
These lists are of course very subjective, and in drawing them up I've tried to see them from how I have experienced each category (indirectly for the last!). Looking back on them now, one thing for me really stands out: they are very self-centred. One would expect this for a child, but for a grown-up one might reasonably expect a wider perspective, and a bit of vision.
It seems to me that we can become very accepting of the way things are, or the way we have made them. Family breakdowns, for example, are so commonplace now that we think nothing of them, except if we are personally caught up in what are almost always horrible, even vicious and traumatic events. Similarly with excessive consumption: we are eating more, drinking more, purchasing more on credit, and keeping our heating on higher for longer, despite the warmer winters. And with morality: thrills can be had in every upside-down-inside-out-which-way-straight-bent-real-virtual way you can imagine and beyond that. This filters down through the media and by personal example, wreaking enormous damage on the lives of children especially. Here beginneth another year of all this and more?
If we are to build a better society, one based on loving and valuing our neighbour as well as ourselves, and one looking towards a fairer future for all, then we need a wider vision. A vision perhaps that sees us as creatures rather then creators, a vision that sees us here for a purpose, a vision that recognises God.
Anthony Ashwell
The beginning of the year seems a good time to thank John & Anthony for all their hard work on our behalf throughout the past year and especially during the Christmas Season. Thank you from us all.
I came across the following the other day
Some people expect their minister to have:-
the strength of an eagle
the grace of a swan
the friendliness of a sparrow
the eyes of a hawk
and the wisdom of an owl
- and they expect such a bird to exist on the food of a canary!
Ed.
Puncknowle's Confirmation Service with Bishop Tim
On the evening of 14th November last, there was a momentous event in Puncknowle. Nine people of 'mixed ages' were confirmed by the youthful-looking new Bishop of Sherborne (he's actually 45). He wants to be known as Bishop Tim rather than Bishop Timothy, and this gave us a hint of what was to come. He led the Service in a lively, very engaging, informal and unpompous fashion, and a far cry from what many of us experienced at our own Confirmations, and so expected. Afterwards at our late Harvest Supper (thank you everyone who contributed) he was most affable and even teasable (especially about his north country roots). He is really a man of the people, the Church of England showing, at least in his appointment, empathy with the modern age.
Our new Archbishop, Rowan Williams, is also strongly encouraging his church to move away from the pursuit of status and over-attention to ceremonial. Is this 'Bye-bye pomp, bye-bye stuffiness' (with apologies to The Everley Brothers)?
Anthony Ashwell
On Sunday 12th January Mrs Yvette Smith is to be Commissioned by the Rector as Branch Leader of the Bride Valley Branch of the Mothers' Union, at St Mary's Burton Bradstock at the 11.00 am Parish Communion. We look forward to welcoming members of the branch to that service on this special occasion.
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity (18th - 25th January) Services arranged by Churches Together in Bridport and District are as follows:-
Sat 18th 10.30 am Friends Meeting House, South Street, Bridport
Sun 19th 6.30 pm Bridport United Church, East Street, Bridport
Mon 20th 2.30 pm St Mary's Church, South Street, Bridport
Tue 21st 2.30 pm The Roman Catholic Church of Our Lady and St Ignatius, Chideock
Wed 22nd 2.30 pm St Mary's Church, Puncknowle
Thu 23rd 10.30 am The Unitarian and Free Christian Church, East Street, Bridport
Fri 24th 2.30 pm St Mary Magdalen Church, Loders
Sat 25th 10.30 am West Bay Methodist Church
THE BRIDE VALLEY (WEDNESDAY) BIBLE STUDY GROUP
This January we continue our study of St Mark's Gospel and a study which is proving most challenging and stimulating. All really are welcome to the sessions, each one of which is repeated at the 'other end' of the valley, and the only qualification you need is a Bible. Sessions begin at 7.30pm and last for about two hours.
Fuller details will be found on the church notice boards.
Session VIII St Mark - Chapter 7
January 8th Fir Tree Cottage, Shipton Gorge
January 15th 11 Barges Close, Litton Cheney
Session IX St Mark - Chapter 8
January 22nd Westfield, Shipton Lane, Burton Bradstock
January 29th 5 Green Barton, Swyre (June Ball's)
Further information from Mike Read (897445) or me.
Anthony Ashwell (482302)
Popular Requests
Thank you so much for wonderful gifts of hats and cassettes for 'Activities' at Sidney Gale House. We still need more PLAIN COLOURED SILKY SCARVES, and also DOUBLE KNITTING WOOL to make blankets for a Romanian Hospital. Perhaps you could let Anna Ashwell have any you can spare (Tel: 482302
Burton Bradstock School.
Each New Year brings with it an element of renewed hope and enthusiasm for the future. For me, this one holds a special significance as I take up my new role as Headteacher of Burton Bradstock School. I could not begin this month's contribution to the Bride Valley News without first paying tribute to my predecessor David Powell, who together with the staff, governors, parents and friends of the school have worked so selflessly in order to make it the success it is. I also wish to thank everyone I have met for making me feel so much 'at home' and welcome. I will endeavour to learn names and faces as soon as possible but in the meantime, please be patient!
Any change can bring with it an element of anxiety yet it can also be a very positive experience for all concerned. Whilst I do not believe in change for change sake we all recognise that the world in which we live is by nature constantly changing. Digital cameras, video conferencing, scanners and interactive whiteboards used to be within the realm of Dr Who and science fiction. Not any more! Children readily adopt the new technologies. How often do we pause to think about what kind of society our children are growing up in and the role that we should play? In the staff room there is a small poster that states:
Nowadays we are saturated with information. How can we deal with it all? What is important? How do teachers know what to teach? It seems to me that the best skills we can share with children are those that enable them to learn to be learners. Some of the most exciting developments in educational research have come in the past ten years and the implications for teaching and learning are now filtering through in a very practical sense. This is partly what makes it such an interesting time for me to be 'taking up the reins'. All of us are in the learning business.
I have been married to my wife for eighteen years and with a son in Year 10 and a daughter in Year 6 I do understand how difficult being a parent can be. Family life is so often a huge juggling act: balancing homework and relaxation; encouraging music practice; eternal taxi-driver/chauffeur and so on... From time to time we even have to deal with conflict! Yet despite all this we love our children and do our best to work through any difficulties. We accept that they are individuals in their own right. We endeavour to do all we reasonably can to encourage and support them to develop to their potential. Actually that is what we aim to do in school too. Perhaps the hardest part is the fact that whether we are a parent or a teacher we only get one chance. So in this New Year I am looking forward to us working in partnership as together we seek to do the best job we can for our children in this ever-changing world.
Mark Stratta.
We all welcome Mark Stratta to the Bride Valley and wish him well as he settles in to his new position. We look forward to getting to know him and his family and to reading his monthly contributions in the B.V.N. Our good wishes, love and thanks go to David as he sets off on his new adventure and we look forward to his continued enthusiastic participation in our village events. Ed.
Thorner's CE VA Primary School
A new year, a new start and an opportunity for anyone to turn over a new leaf if that is what is needed. Here at school we are looking forward to new topics, finding out more about our world and reflecting on the beliefs of others, improving our own skills to improve the lives of others. The year 5 and 6 pupils are eager to visit the Leisure centre to develop their swimming skills. We introduced these sessions last year to compensate for those wet days when we are unable to go outside for PE; they were well received by the pupils who thought it was fun and not like 'real' school at all. At times it is good to be able to take children away from the familiar school buildings and add something different to their experiences; if we did it too often the novelty would soon wear off. The School Association are trying to arrange trips to places of interest but with all the paperwork and forms which need to be completed it is so easy to say NO and then not carry on, so a big thank you to Lisa who is battling her way through this process to bring a variety of opportunities forward. Well done Lisa, and I hope all goes well with the Science Museum visit.
Alison Johnstone
Headteacher
THORNERS PARENT AND TEACHER ASSOCIATION
By the time you read this note Christmas will have been and gone. I hope that it gave you all the opportunity to unite with your family, friends and loved ones.
Although it has been a rocky start we have a well supported School Committee. They are working hard to provide the valley with unique opportunities and a strong community spirit. This is to be valued and is quite a rarity these days within the 'Rat Race' !
Thank you to all of you that are involved.
The school 'one way' system is working very well but I am compelled to ask you kindly to drive with care when approaching the school entrance. Some children who are lower in height than others can be out of your sight when disembarking their carriage and are oblivious to your presence so please bear this in mind when on your way.
A great big thank you to the providers of the Thorners Christmas Tree (from the east end of the valley)! It looks magnificent.
Our committee contacts are as follows:
Chair - Dianne ffoulkes
Treasurer - Wendy Collinson
Admin Secretary - Dianne Phillips
Fund Raising Co-ordinator - Mandy Wately
Excursion Club - Lisa Adams
Pool committee - Ross Jones and Janet Letherby
100 Club - Maria Bowen-Ashwin and Caroline Cox
Nestles assistant - Sally Vennard
Web Ivory organisor - Jill Neil
Vice chair - vacant Please contact the committee Fund raising -vacant if you can help us with these Poster organiser - vacant vacant positions
Be happy and healthy!
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU ALL
Dianne ffoulkes (Chair)
Bride Valley Scout Group
After more than 30 years with the Scouting Movement, the last 18 here in Dorset, Patricia Tucker has decided to call it a day, hang up her woggle(!) and has retired as Group Scout Leader for the Bride Valley. We are very sad that Pat will no longer be taking such an active role, but we wish her all the very best in her retirement from the Group, and we know she will still be nearby for advice should we ever need it.
I had hoped to say goodbye to Pat with good news from the Community Fund (Lottery bid) but it wasn't to be! Our bid has been rejected again, the only reason given was that, although our bid was recommended for a grant, the grants budget is declining and it was impossible to fund all the projects which were recommended. However, we shall apply again early next year and in the meantime I await an answer from the Countryside Agency regarding another application for funding.
As I write this the Bride Valley Scout Group continues to thrive due to the quality of our Leaders and we have a waiting list for entry to Beavers, four boys moving up to Cubs soon, and all the sections enjoying some great activities, as well as work with the new badge system.
Having said all that, we do have a potential problem looming - Mark Davies is due to become a father at Easter and will need to take a back seat for a while, so we shall need another Cub Leader to take over as from Easter. Are there any ex-Leaders out there, or someone willing to be trained up very quickly, who could give a little of their time to take over from Mark? If so, please contact me on 897695 as soon as possible. You'll find Bride Valley an extremely rewarding Group to be part of!
Many thanks for your continuing support!
Steve Dove, Chairman BVSG
ARE YOU BRINGING UP CHILDREN ON YOUR OWN?
Have you considered going back to work but are concerned about the financial implications?
Have you been out of the workplace for so long that you lack the confidence to return?
Are you interested in updatinq your skills?
Have you questions regarding benefit entitlements or tax credits?
Are you concerned about childcare?
There is help available, both practical and financial, to overcome these difficulties and many others under the New Deal for Lone Parents scheme. You do not have to be in receipt of benefits to take part.
If you would like to find out more please give me, Marion Gooter, a ring at Dorchester Jobcentre on 01305 326812 or use our freephone number 08007839870 to make an appointment.
I look forward to hearing from you. Marion Gooter
Mothers' Union
Yvette Smith is to be commissioned as the new Branch Leader of the Bride Valley Branch by the Rev'd Canon John Atkinson during the 11.00am Service on Sunday 12th January at St. Mary's, Burton Bradstock. We wish her well.
The Annual General Meeting will be held at Hazelbrow on Thursday 23rd January at 2.30pm.
Pam Coventry
First Steps Parent and Toddler Group meet on Wednesdays from 10.00am till 12 noon during term time. We offer toys and activities for all preschool children, coffee and chat for parents and carers. The group meets at Long Bredy Village Hall on the first, third and fifth Wednesdays of the month. On the second Wednesday we meet in Little Bredy Hall and on the fourth Wednesday we meet in either Little Bredy or Puncknowle. For further details contact: Jo (Litton Cheney) ... or Julie (Puncknowle) 897178 or Rachel (Kingston Russell and Long Bredy) 482397
Litton Cheney Youth Club
The Youth Club continues to meet for those in Littton Cheney and the surrounding area aged 8 - 17 years. Read the Litton notes for January's dates and for further details contact Paul Kingston 482384.
Men's Breakfast
Every third Saturday of each month, the Bride Valley Churches are holding a men's breakfast at Puncknowle Village Hall from 8.00 am to 10.00 am. There'll be a cooked breakfast, of course, and a chance to chat. For more information phone Paul ... on ... or Jonathan Jevons on 897068.
NSPCC
Very many thanks to the collectors in Litton Cheney and those who so kindly donated during October. Our total was £116.50. Also to Swyre who most generously donated £49.22.
Ladybirds
At this month's meeting, on Wednesday 8th January at 8.00 pm, there will be a talk from the Dorset Air Ambulance.
BRIDE VALLEY GARDENING CLUB
We have enjoyed our 3 meetings this Autumn with excellent attendance - still room for others who would like to come along though! The Cheese and Wine party in December, as usual, went well - a good end to the year. Dorothy Randell, our Chairwoman and her Committee wishes all members of the Gardening Club a Very Happy and Healthy New Year and a successful one in the garden.
Dorothy gives us this month's gardening tip - and for those who have seen Dorothy's garden with all its produce will know she talks from experience! "January is a quiet month in the garden, with just the last of the tidying up to do, weather permitting. If however, you can get some good rotted farmyard manure, now is the time to spread it over the garden to allow it to break up before digging starts in the Spring. It also gives extra protection to plant roots during the worst of the winter weather and the nutrients from it are ready in the soil when the plants need it to start their growing season".
The next meeting will be on Monday 13th January at 7.30pm when Chris Yates will talk on "Roses - old and new."
Norma Millard Club Secretary.
Anniversary
Bridport Royal Charter Anniversary Events
January
Thurs 9th - Bridport and West Dorset Music Club, 'The Devils Trill'
Sat 18th - New Elizabethan Singers
Mon 20th to Sun 26th -Bridport Pantomime Players, 'Aladdin'-at the Dancing School
Fri 31st - Friends of Bridport Museum, Historical Music Night in W.I. Hall, Bridport
The New Elizabethan Singers with Orchestra
The programme will include:-
Messiah Choruses
'A Prayer' Frank Bridge
Missa Brevis in D ~ MOZART
Saturday 18th January 2003
St Mary's Church Bridport
Tickets: £6 from Goadsby and Harding
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.
Bell Ringing Practices Thursdays at 7.00pm
Gift Sunday 19th January Leprosy Mission
The next Tiny Tots / Pram Service will be held on Friday 10th January at 11.00 am (not on 3rd January).
The next Healing Services at St Mary's will be held on Wednesday 8th January and Monday 3rd February, each at 7.00 pm.
The Parochial Church Council next meets on Monday 10th February at 7.00 pm in church.
Posada (A Spanish word meaning 'Inn') Travelling Crib.
The idea of Posada originates in Mexico where people dress up as Mary and Joseph, going from house to house telling people about Jesus and asking for a room. As part of St Mary's Advent preparation we invited all households in our parish to make room for the figures of Mary and Joseph from our Christmas Crib. Each made room for one night and then took them on to another home, so that by Christmas Eve Mary and Joseph had travelled around the parish, eventually being brought to the Crib Service in the church by the final hosts. A small candle was lit, a few short prayers were said, and refreshments offered. In this way we prepared ourselves to make room for our Lord in our hearts and homes at Christmas, not just as individuals and families but also together as a Christian community.
Pam Atkinson
Church flowers for Christmas Thank you very much to everyone who provided flowers and greenery for the Christmas festival, and to those who came and helped to decorate the church.
Pam Atkinson
New Christmas crib figures Our warmest thanks to Louise Hawkins for her kind and generous gift of a set of crib figures. These replace those which over the years have suffered wear and breakage. Louise's gift is in memory of her father and uncle, Bob and Dennis Hawkins.
Bridge Cottage Stores would like to help St. Mary's Church by donating £2.00 for every breakfast sold until the end of March on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Please ask at the shop. Liz Comely
We would like to thank, once again, Bridge Cottage Stores, Burton Bradstock Cars, The Hive Cafe and The Three Horsehoes for their generous support of the Appeal and would urge our readers to support their fund-raising activities.
Christmas Greetings
Our grateful thanks to everyone who supported the Christmas Greetings in the December issue of the Bride Valley News this year. We raised a commendable £507.50 for Church funds. A big thank you to all those who contributed.
Ken Pett
....And OUR thanks to Ken for organising it.
Geoffrey Fowler
Geoffrey Fowler, who died in December, was a man with a great love of nature - trees, flowers and the cultivation of his beautiful garden. He served on the Committee of the Village Society for some years and ran our Flower Show so successfully. He was a 'Man of the Trees' and planted many in our village and in surrounding areas. His own garden was an inspiration to many and he was always ready to give advice with his vast knowledge of Horticulture.
His interest in the history of the village was wide, he was Tree Warden for the Parish Council and was the inspiration for the 'Roberts Trail', of much interest to our community and to the many visitors who enjoy holidays here. We owe him a debt, which should not be forgotten.
Nancy Bushell, Village Society
Village Society
Anyone passing the W.I. Hall in Burton Bradstock on the evening of Friday 15th November could have been forgiven for wondering what on earth was going on inside for all the raucous laughter coming from the hall. This was because the November meeting was being entertained by Mr Bob Fox in his presentation called 'Look back with Laughter'.
Mr Fox was Entertainment Manager for the Lewisham Theatre back in the heyday of variety comedians, and had many funny stories to relate of his meetings with the likes of Max Bygraves, Morcombe and Wise, Arthur Askey, Charlie Chester and other all time greats. When asked why he didn't go on the stage himself, Mr Fox said that he could never remember the lines!
The next meeting is on Friday 17th January when the speaker will be Mr. Rodney Alcock whose subject is "Food through the Ages."
Peter Dutton
Burton Bradstock Women's Institute
( Nov. - Feb. 2.15pm Mar. - Oct. 7.15pm )
If you would like to hear speakers on a variety of topics, meet new friends and old, join us at our monthly meetings in the W.I.Hall.
The W.I. covers a lot of interests (not just Jam & Jerusalem) such as:
Badminton
Tapestry/Needlecrafts
Knitting
Walks - (+ a pub lunch)
Outings
Bridge/Whist
Mah Jong
Book group
Social activities
To become a member join us at our meeting on Tuesday 14th January at 2.15pm - speaker from Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance. If you would like more information ring:-
Chris Clarke on 898117 or Pat Raven on 897605.
DOG FOULING CAMPAIGN
The slogan for the New Year is "Stoop and Scoop" when walking your dog in the village. Dog fouling increased in 2002 on roadways, pathways, lanes, outside private house, doorways, garage areas, meadow and river pathways. Villagers are asked to be responsible as dog owners - it is not the dogs fault! Please STOOP AND SCOOP and take the little plastic package HOME. Do not leave the plastic package on footpaths or discard into hedgerows! Plastic is not biodegradeable. Poop is a major health hazard.
All villagers have a responsibility to ensure that our village walking areas are kept clear of rubbish. The fine for allowing dog fouling is £1000.
Please be vigilant and if an offending owner is seen please report to the Environmental Health Officer ( Mr Mike Grindle West Dorset District Council, Stratton House 58/60 High Street Dorchester DT1 IUZ or telephone 01305 252372 ) who will visit the offending person.
To allow dogs to poop just anywhere and for this to be left is an offence. The majority of villagers wish to walk in the village areas and survey the beautiful countryside - not constantly observe where one is walking. Dark evenings are even more hazardous. Remember please to "STOOP AND SCOOP" after your pet. In January posters with the new slogan will be posted throughout the village. Parish Council.
Burton Bradstock Players
The Burton Bradstock Players are pleased to announce that their next pantomime "Hickory Dickory Dock" will take place from Monday,10th February to Saturday, 15th February 2003 inclusive ( with a Saturday Matinee ) at the W.I. Hall. The Box Office opens on Tuesday, 7th January 2003 at the Post Office, Burton Bradstock. Tel: 01308 897243 office hours only ). 2 tickets only per booking for the Saturday evening performance.
Mary Bailey
Diamond Wedding
We would like to extend our very best wishes and warmest congratulations to Derek and Val Parsons on the occasion of their 'Diamond Wedding Anniversary' on 16th January. We wish them a very Special Day and that they have many more years of happiness together.
For information and news check out more of the Burton Bradstock website
Village Correspondent: Mrs.Joy White
Eastcote, 3 Gullivers Orchard, Shipton Gorge
Tel(01308)897974
FROM THE PARISH REGISTERS
Funeral 19th November Leonard W. Legg
The Parochial Church Council next meets on Wednesday 19th February at 7.30 pm at Cairnhill.
THE RAKE'S PROGRESS.
This is the next show to be presented at SHIPTON GORGE VILLAGE HALL on Wednesday 15th January 2003 commencing at 7.30 pm, Tickets are priced at £4.50 and are available in advance by telephoning 01308 897547, at the New Inn, Shipton Gorge or from members of the Hall committee.
This newly devised piece, bursting with exquisitely drawn characterisation and comic observation is based on Hogarth's series of paintings which currently hang at the Sir John Soane's Museum in London (described by Hazlitt as "a perpetual collision of eccentricities, a tilt and tournament of the absurdities, the prejudices and caprices of mankind let loose"). The show has been specially commissioned by the Dorset Promoters Consortium.
THE RAKE'S PROGRESS is written and acted by "ODDBODIES' who are John Mowat, Paul Morel and Tanya Scott-Wilson. Past shows include the highly acclaimed "Sykes and Nancy" and a two-man version of Shakespeare's "Richard III." This highly original group have toured the U.K., Europe and the U.S.A. with all three shows. This promises to be an evening of remarkable theatre, gifted acting and humour. Reviews in the national press have praised it as "versatile, gifted and a major comic find" - so don't miss it!
Pre Christmas Get-together
On behalf of all those who attended the Get-together the writer would like to thank Christine and Robert for a most enjoyable time.
Christmas Refuse Collection - Tuesday 31st December will be collected on Thursday 2nd January, and Tuesday 7th January will be collected on Wednesday 8th January. It is important that refuse is put out on these days by 7.30 a.m. - Thank you. Parish Clerk
Shipton Hall 100 Club
Winners for the December Draw:-
£50 No.88 Brian Shaw
£20 No.16 Ivy Platt
£10 No. 90 Ann Jones
£10 No.35 Brian & Heather Puttock
£10 No.39 Brian & Brenda Lavelle
( Are all the men in Shipton now going to change their name to Brian?! Ed. )
Village Correspondent: Sid Marshall
3 Green Barton, Swyre
Tel(01308)897318 s.marshall@which.net
CAROLS OF PRAISE - 5th January
This has now become a regular fixture, and we look forward at 3 o'clock in the afternoon to singing out Christmas with 8 lively carols in our normal Summer Songs of Praise format. There will be refreshments afterwards, do come along.
Anthony Ashwell
GIFT AID SCHEME
At the time this scheme was introduced in April 2000, the Church estimated that if half of the money given to the Church was made under the Gift Aid Scheme its income would be increased by £20 million.
Naturally the Church is anxious that as many members as possible should join this scheme. It will work only if everyone who pays tax joins in even in a very small parish such as Swyre. All you have to do is sign one declaration form. Then for each £1.00 that you give , Holy Trinity can claim a tax rebate of 28p.This is not just a scheme for persons who pay large amounts of tax, but for everyone who pays. For example if you pay only £100 in tax you could give £357.00 to the church, in which case Holy Trinity could claim £99.96. There is a space on your Income Tax return to insert the amount paid as Gift Aid, if you fill in the amount it will not affect your Tax liability unless you are paying tax at the higher rate.
If you wish to join in you can do so in two ways. You can make a monthly donation by means of a standing order on your Bank or Building Society account or you can use the envelope scheme making your contribution each time you attend Church. To adopt either course of action all you have to do is to drop into my home at Chantry House next to the Church and fill in a form. I can supply you with the necessary declarations, standing orders, or envelopes. The only person who will know how much you are giving will be me and I am well used to keeping such confidential information to myself. I shall not be advising you on how much to give as this is a matter for you to decide. It seems a pity not to increase Holy Trinity's income when the means are so simple.
I look forward to seeing you all.
Ken Martin
WEST DORSET ME SUPPORT GROUP
A big thank you to all who supported the recent fund raising Coffee Morning. I am delighted to say over £140 was raised and this is much appreciated.
If anyone would like to know more about ME and the local support group I would be pleased to hear from them.
Hazel Stirgess 897571
BRITISH LEGION POPPY APPEAL May I thank everyone in Swyre who contributed to Poppy Day. £68-17 was raised. Sheila Body
NSPCC Many thanks to Swyre who raised £49.22
ARCHAEOLOGY EVENING
Dr Northover will be hosting an evening at Puncknowle Village Hall on Friday 14 February 2003 at 7.30 p.m. Tickets will be priced £1.00 for adults, and children will be free when accompanied by an adult.
Peter will be detailing the findings of last year's dig and showing a video edited from several tapes filmed by the TV company which produced the 'Past Finders' programme on Meridian.
There will be an exhibition of finds and the details for the dig for 2003 will be revealed. Refreshments will also be available.
All proceeds will be going to the Swyre Community Fund. For further information please contact me on 897003. Julie Lewis
POLICE COMMUNITY SUPPORT UNIT
The above vehicle will be visiting Puncknowle on Thursday 16 January 2003, outside phone box between 10.00 am and 11.00 am.
VITAL VILLAGES
This scheme is run by the Countryside Agency to provide funding for projects proposed by villagers. Grants have already been given to 1400 village-based schemes across England.
Examples include:
- an after-school transport scheme in County Durham, helping village children to attend after-school activities;
- an extra room built onto a village hall near Darlington, for use by local societies;
- a 'Walking To School Bus' (training, reflective clothing etc.) in Kent, enabling children to travel on foot healthily and safely to and from their primary school.
Any project for which there is popular demand can be supported - these may range from creating a park to helping 'micro businesses', from supplying a cash machine to buying a village minibus. The needs of each village are different, and the scheme is flexible to reflect this.
The villages of Puncknowle, Swyre and West Bexington now have a joint informal steering group ploughing through the procedure, and we will be asking for input at public meetings on Wednesday 15th January in The Bull Inn Swyre (10 am - midday) and that evening in the Church Hall Puncknowle (6 - 11 pm). Bring along your bright ideas, however off-beat they may seem!
The suggestions (and extra volunteers!) from the meetings will help us draw up a questionnaire which will be put through the letterbox of every household in the 3 villages. From this, more meetings will thrash out the details of the projects which emerge, and the funding applications will be submitted later in the Spring. Nick Tait
Village Correspondent: Mrs Dorothy Barlow
Collingbourne, Hoopers Lane, Puncknowle
Tel (01308) 897761
From the Registers
Confirmation (by the Bishop of Sherborne)
Vicky and Clare Moore 9th November 2002 Salisbury Cathedral
Katy Fry, Lauren Hannan, Katy Laver, John Moore, Nick and Patrick Moore, and Ben Worley 14th November 2002 Puncknowle
Funeral
May Bethell-Jones 26th November 2002 aged 98
May lived in Hoopers Lane for over 20 years and was a well-known illustrator of children's books.
Burial of Ashes
Hilda Kenton 30th November 2002 aged 90
We laid Hilda's Ashes peacefully to rest with those of her beloved Dick who had died 3 ½ years earlier.
CHRISTINGLE SERVICE
This will take place on Sunday 2nd February at 9.30am and is a wonderful way of supporting the Childrens' Society. At the Service we intend to dismantle the Christmas Crib, which will be in place until then, to show that in the same way as Jesus left Bethlehem eventually to go out into the world to proclaim the Gospel, so we can look outwards today to care for the needy.
CONFIRMATION SERVICE on 14th November 2002
Please see my article under Valley Notes.
CHRISTIAN UNITY SERVICE
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity begins on Saturday 18th January, and our church will be hosting a Service on Wednesday 22nd January at 2.30pm to which all are most welcome to attend.
Anthony Ashwell
Parish Council
This month's Parish Council meeting on the 7th January will be considering the setting up of a survey to gain knowledge of how the community sees the future development of our villages. We will also, we hope, have news of the proposals for the skate board facilities in the playing field area.
The works to safeguard the bridge at the West Bexington car park continue and by the time you read this they should be completed.
There are to be elections for our council next May and we should be pleased to hear from anyone who might wish to learn more about what is involved. We are also still looking for someone to take on the job as clerk. Anna Lovell
Puncknowle Art Group
On Nov.15th, Sallie led a marbling session at Doreen Prints. Much fun was had by all. Thank you Sallie and Doreen. On Nov. 29th at The Crown we had an interesting talk by Jane Burden on Andy Goldsworthy and a quick experiment ourselves with some natural materials. Looking back over the past year we have really enjoyed our guest speakers and the sharing of skills of our own members. We look forward to our AGM - Jan 10th - when we will plan a new programme. On Jan 24th there will be an oil painting demonstration.
Christine Molony
Bride Valley Fledglings
Happy New Year! First of all I would like to welcome Megan Clemens who joined us in December from Cornwall.
The Bingo evening was another great success when a combined total of £325 was raised. Thanks to everyone who supported us and a special thank you goes to Pat for the mince pies, and to John Annan for being our caller for the evening.
On the 9th December the playgroup visited Thorner's to watch the dress rehearsal of the school's Christmas play; this is the first step for some to get acquainted with the school, which many will be attending in September. Thank you to Mrs Johnson and the other staff for allowing us to make this visit.
Dates for your dairy
Photo Session and Coffee Morning at the Playgroup, Puncknowle on Saturday 15th February Please look out for our Winter Quiz which should be on sale later in January.
Sue Talbot [ Administrator ] 01308 482204
See Swyre section for further entries of interest to Puncknowle
Dont forset to check the village website www.puncknowle.org.uk to keep in touch with village events and useful information
Village Correspondents:
Mrs. Elizabeth Kingston, 5 Manor Farm Close
Tel.482384 paulkingston@tinyworld.co.uk
Christingle Service
This Service, in aid of the Childrens' Society, will be at 9.30am on Sunday January 26th and will be instead of our normal 4th Sunday Family Service.
Sadly we see few (sometimes no) children at our Family Services in Litton Cheney, although there are many at the Puncknowle family Services, and often more than a handful at both Long Bredy and Littlebredy. Parents: could this Christingle Service be the opportunity to bring your child (-ren) to church?
Financial Giving to the Church
The autumn initiative has been very successful and on 2nd February at 11.00am, our Parish Communion Service will take the theme of 'Thanksgiving'.
Watch-night Service on New Year's Eve
If you read this in time, this Service will be at 11.15pm, before the bells.
Anthony Ashwell
Litton Cheney Web Group Broadband Internet Access Meeting
The Valley that Time Forgot - remembered
For everyone who thought the great broadband revolution was something for other people and that the IT have/IT have nots divide was getting even wider, good news! AbbTel Limited is a local Internet Service Provider, well aware that broadband is vital for economic growth and to enable us all to access the increasing number of services on the net, from home shopping to homework research.
Nag campaign
Bride Valley could be in the vanguard of the information technology revolution and won't turn into the valley that time forgot! Since hearing the first rumblings that Wireless Broadband would be available in Dorset, Bride Valley Bods mounted what can only be described as an admirable 'nag campaign'. Who says pester power is just for the kids?!
Promise of beer and fine food
Having lured Managing Director Nick Brown in to a pub with the promise of beer and fine food (I hear the pheasant is particularly good), they plied him with aforementioned booze until he agreed that indeed Bride Valley deserved broadband, and they deserved it soon. Soon in this case means January 2003.
Interest
What's involved and how do you get connected? You will find the answers to most of your questions on the abbtel.co.uk web site, where you will also be able to register your interest. Using the 'register your interest' form does not commit you, but AbbTel will be able to gauge the level of interest in the Bride Valley for Broadband. People running their own businesses might like to know that grants of up to £700 are available for non-ADSL broadband delivery systems. You can find out more and apply on line at www.rabbit-broadband.org.uk
There will be a public meeting at Thorner's School, on Thursday 9th January at 8.00 pm; Nick Brown will be one of the speakers and available to answer all your questions, both technical and commercial. If you can't wait until then, you can contact either Nick or a friendly and helpful member of his team on 01305 860966
Simon Nobes, Litton Cheney Web Group
Litton Cheney Youth Club
The Youth Club meets on Tuesday 14th January and Tuesday 28th January in The Church Hall, Litton Cheney. The junior session for those 8 - 12 years is from 6.30 - 8.00 pm and the senior session for those 13 - 17 years from 8.00 - 9.30 pm.
NSPCC
Very many thanks to the collectors in Litton Cheney and those who so kindly donated during October. Our total was £116.50.
Thank you from Lucy Dyke to all those who were able to fill in her Geography GCSE questionnaire, and offered encouragement. As many people were interested in the results they will be made available (details in next newsletter), however no facts will be attributed to any person or household and all the questionnaires will be destroyed when counting is complete.
A big THANK YOU to everyone for their kind help and support. John is continuing to make slow and steady progress and is out of intensive care. He is waiting to be transferred to Poole Hospital to start his rehabilitation. Best wishes for Christmas and the New Year. Keith, Sheila and Jamie Barnes
After all the changes in deadlines a reminder that the correspondent would like to receive all contributions for inclusion in the BVN by the 10th of the month. Thank you.
www.littoncheney.org.uk - Visit the web site for the latest news. The group meets at The White Horse Inn at 8 o'clock on the first monday of each month - All welcome.
FROM THE PARISH REGISTERS
Confirmation (by the Bishop of Sherborne)
Rachel Fox and Holly Scott 9th November 2002 Salisbury Cathedral
Charles and George ffoulkes 14th November 2002 Puncknowle
Church Cleaning
For a small village, we have a large church building, and one which takes a lot of cleaning. Thank you, everybody, who has helped or is helping, and especially to Jill Maltby who is leaving the rota after 'several' years. We are pleased she will continue to be our Sacristan.
Anthony Ashwell
Long Bredy Parish News
From Christmas celebrations and the wonderful lighting display in Long Bredy, we come to a New Year. A very happy New Year to all residents in Long Bredy, Ashley Chase, Higher and Lower Kingston Russell.
The Poppy Appeal in November raised £129.36. Thank you very much.
Congratulations to Duncan Green on winning more gold medals for his collection. Duncan has been competing in Belfast with the British Team and then won an individual gold at the British Championships for people with disabilities. Well done.
The Bride Valley British Legion has sent its thanks for the sum of over £75 raised in the village by the sale of poppies prior to Remembrance Day. Well done to all who contributed so generously.
At the end of November, we said farewell to Andrew and Cheryl McPherson, with Amy and Frazer (not forgetting the irrepressible puppy Fizzy), who have departed from Littlebride to their new home in Sherborne. Our best wishes for the future go with them.
Never a year goes by in the Village Notes without some reference to Annette Hallett's bowling prowess, though she has left it late in 2002! Congratulations to her in being selected for an England Representative game in Bristol in early December. Only the full International teams rank higher than the Representative ones, so this is a high honour and reflection on her skill. Congratulations and well done.
Let us hope and trust that everyone's Christmas celebrations have been happy and refreshing. These notes come with very best wishes to all Littlebredy residents, past as well as present, for a truly happy and fulfilling 2003. Long may the New Year resolutions last...!
Editor: Susan Paul Windy Gap Shipton Lane Burton Bradstock DT6 4NQ