FROM THE CLERGY           

"Don't change anything."  I've been asked or told this several times now, as with our Rector retired and moved away, I take on temporarily the 'care' of the whole Bride Valley.  How long this will be for is impossible to say, but all being well, Burton Bradstock Rectory will be occupied again next summer.  Whatever, there is the opportunity now for me to make some changes, perhaps significant ones, in the next few months ................. 

Don't worry though, I shall heed the advice, and particularly when it comes to routine Sunday Services, do my best to see that things stay just as they are.  One person, however, cannot possibly do the job of two without something giving, and if we had a time-machine it might be interesting to go back 2 or 3 generations to the time when there were 6 parsons in the Bride Valley: at Burton, Littlebredy, Litton, Long Bredy, Puncknowle and Swyre.  What would the reactions of local people have been then to, say, a reduction of 6 clergy locally to 5 ?  "Nothing must change"?  But it clearly must have done, and we simply grew used to having fewer parsons around, and having to do more ourselves.  And this is precisely how it will be now; Church committees and members will have to do more themselves, especially when it comes to dealing with bureaucracy.  It seems odd that the more civilised we become as a society, the more time needs to be set aside for administration.  Perhaps this is due to the abuse of the greater freedoms increased civilisation offers.   

Resistance to change is the biggest problem that people face when seeking to modify, develop or improve.  We can now go on 'Management of Change' courses though personally I have not seen any courses entitled 'Acceptance of Change'.  People will also realise that generally the older one gets, the more difficult it is to change: there is security in the known.  This is not to say that change eventually becomes impossible.  It is however normally uncomfortable, and it is the risk or possibility of discomfort, at least in the short-term, that drives resistance to change.   

So it is that we come back to ourselves and maybe to selfishness.  We don't want the change because we don't want to change.  But it seems to me that this is demeaning both of ourselves and of our Creator.  To become fixed in our ways, resistant to change at all costs, is to undermine our basic humanity and ability to think and consider.  Throughout the Gospel, Jesus Christ constantly challenged his followers to stop and listen and think and pray, and then to make those changes in themselves and in the world around them, which would draw all creation closer to God.   

Anthony Ashwell

Thanks from John and Pam

We send our thanks to all those who contributed to making our last few weeks in the Bride Valley so memorable. Thank you for all your gifts of money, tokens, plants and flowers, photographs and albums, hospitality, letters and cards.  We were overwhelmed by our last church services in the Valley, the leaving parties, and your most generous gifts from all the churches, individual people and the various organisations - the Bride Valley Mothers' Union, St Mary's Burton Bradstock bell ringers and flower ladies, the Burton Bradstock Playgroup and Tiny Tots congregation, Burton Bradstock School, the Bride Valley branch of the Royal British Legion, Burton Bradstock Pantomime Players - whose activities we have shared over the years.  We have both celebrated birthdays recently, too.  We have been pleasantly inundated with retirement and birthday cards! 

We can't respond to everyone personally and individually, but please be assured of our most sincere thanks for all your gifts and greetings. 

A big thank you, also, to Anthony and Anna Ashwell, Mike and Ann Read, to churchwardens and all other church officers who have been such great support and encouragement to us during our time in the Bride Valley. 

We have left the Bride Valley warmed by so much kindness and generosity.  Thank you for your love and good wishes as we begin our new life in Herefordshire.

John and Pam

Tiny Tots / Pram Service  The next service will be on Friday 7^th November at 11 am at St Mary's, Burton Bradstock.

The Bride Valley Team Council next meets on Thursday 6^th November 2003 at 7.30 pm in Puncknowle Church Hall.

Remembrance Sunday - 9^th November

The Services on this Sunday do not follow the normal pattern, and it is advisable to check the 'centre page spread' for times and places.  Please note especially:

10.45am at Puncknowle
            Annual Royal British Legion Remembrance Sunday Service. 

6.30pm at Burton Bradstock 
Special Evensong for Remembrance Sunday.

Retired Clergy

We are most grateful to the following retired clergy whom we will be seeing regularly in the valley during the interregnum: 

Rev'd Richard Adams, Canon John McDougall, Rev'd Peter Saunt and Canon Basil Trevor-Morgan. 

We shall also be asking the Bridport Team Ministry to staff two Services in the valley each month.  Our thanks, too, to Canon Cosmo Pouncey for his continuing assistance at Littlebredy, and above all to Mike Read who most months will be taking five or six Services. 

Anthony Ashwell

Bride Valley ( Wednesday ) Bible Study Group

We continue our course of studies on Philippians; these studies will take us up to beginning of the Lent Course.  All sessions begin at 7.30pm and last up to two hours.

Session V        How to be holy           Phil. Ch.2  vv. 12- 18

Nov   5                                      The Rectory, Litton Cheney

Nov 11 ( TUESDAY ) Westfield, Shipton La., Burton Bradstock

Session VI      Godly leadership                    Phil. Ch.2  vv. 19 - 30

Nov 19                                    Hillside, West Bexington

Nov 26                                    Cairnhill, Shipton Gorge 

THE BRIDE VALLEY (THURSDAY) FELLOWSHIP GROUP

The group meets on Thursday evenings and alternates between Prayer and Bible Study.  Arriving from 7.30p.m. we begin at 7.45p.m. aiming to finish by about 9.15p.m.  All are most welcome. For further details contact Paul ..., Tel ...

November 6                 Bible Study:     Matthew 5.21-26                                                                                 12 Napier Close, Puncknowle

November 13               Prayer  7 Norburton, Burton Bradstock

November 20               Bible Study:    Matthew 5.27-30                  

                                                                           6 Baglake, Litton Cheney      

November 27               Prayer                               West Lodge, Littlebredy

Mothers' Union       

Thursday 27^th November - 2.30pm     1, Lytton Close, Puncknowle

Members' Afternoon - A Biblical Bring & Buy

Future Dates

Thursday 4^th December - 12.45pm   Christmas Lunch

Monday 8^th December - 2.30pm   Carol Service at Beaminster

Yvette Smith     898219

Bible Society Annual Lectures

This Year's Bible Society Annual Lectures, entitled "A Journey  through the New Testament," will be delivered by the Rev'd Stephen Thornton, Training Officer for the United Reformed Church Wessex Synod, in the United Church, East Street, Bridport on Thursdays 6^th 13^th and 20^th November at 7.30pm. All are welcome.

H.Mousley  Secretary B&D.B.S.A.G.

 Wear Your Poppy with Pride

With British troops currently serving in conflicts all around the world and particularly in Iraq one thing is certain that the Royal British Legion will need your support more  than ever this year. 

It is now more than 80 years since The Royal British Legion  has been helping ex-servicemen and women and their dependents. This has been achieved only by the help of people like yourselves generously giving, willingly, every year to the Poppy Appeal. 

Please support this worthy cause this November; all monies collected will go directly to the Appeal and not into local Branch funds. Please wear your Poppy with pride.

Ray West Chairman: Bride Valley Branch R.B.L.

See Diary on page 35 for R.B.L. Events

Thorner's CE VA Primary School

This term seems to be passing very quickly and we are almost thinking about Christmas, well why not come along to our November Fair on Saturday 15^th November, buy some Christmas presents, meet friends for a cup of tea, come and enjoy yourself and why not try your luck in the Lucky Dip.  There is something for everyone. Events like the November Fair give us the opportunity to work together as a team for the benefit of the children.  So often in life you meet people who are more concerned about themselves, so this is an ideal situation where pupils, parents and staff as well as friends of the school can work alongside one another to show that they do care.  As the children progress through the school they take on the responsibility for games and manning stalls, normally using their own interests to create a fun stall.  This is an important part of the education of the individual person and yet is not part of the National Curriculum; it is a result of the teaching citizenship and role models in the home, community as well as in school.  It is a credit to past pupils that they too return regularly to give something back.    

The Governors are currently looking for a new Clerk, this is an important role as they are responsible for collating and distributing documents, agendas and writing minutes for the main meetings of the Governing Body, approximately 7 evening meetings a year.  Good Communication, Secretarial and ICT skills are essential, an honorarium is payable and training through Dorset County Council is available.  Further information can be obtained from the school office.  If you are interested do please contact either Mr Truscott, Chair of Governors or myself.  Applications in writing to Mr Truscott.  Interviews to be arranged at a mutually convenient time. 

This evening has seen a wonder at work, Juliet demonstrated how 'easy' it is to create flower arrangements at our Nature's Palette event.  What a marvel and how envious I am of those people who were able to take home one of the arrangements.  It would impress the husband and neighbours alike.. well that is if you could get it out of the door! I am sure that I speak for all the people who attended when I say a very well done to the Armstrong family for organising it.  For those of you who missed it there is a follow up in a day long workshop on Saturday 8^th November, cost is £10 for the whole day, bring your own lunch.  Places will need to be booked in advance through school as places are limited to a maximum of 20.  Further details are available from the office.  See you there, just in time for some extra special Christmas items. 

Alison Johnstone
Headteacher

100 Club Winners:    £25      Mrs Johnstone (not picked by me!)

                                    £10      Mrs Baxter

 Burton Bradstock CE VC School

Last month proved to be quite an eventful one.  Harvest was a good opportunity to reflect upon the blessings that we enjoy in so many ways and often take for granted.  At the same time we were able to raise £76 for the Jeans for Genes appeal.   

Class 4 visited Bridport Arts Centre for a session of 'Energy Conservation' and as well as enjoying all the 'freebies' available hopefully learned from the experience as well.  Here are some extracts from children's reports of the morning:

            'The day was great! Everything was free and they made learning fun!  They did experiments and explained the key points of insulation.  The shower uses much less water than a bath.'

            'The day could make an impact on energy wasters and make them think twice.'

            'They talked about heat and energy and how to keep heat in and how to be careful not to use too much.  We also talked about what are the sources of energy.'

            'I had a really good time and it was worth going.'

            'I think Jimmy Jacket was really good but I think he should of worn his coat a bit longer but I guess it was too hot.  I also think they encouraged children to save energy and think about it.'

The Cluster Cross Country competition also took place on a glorious autumn Saturday morning at Symondsbury Primary School.  Whilst spectators basked in the sun the athletes ran their hearts out and made us feel very proud of them (and envious of their fitness).  Our girls came fourth in the team competition (won by Thorners) and the boys were runners up to Symondsbury.  Congratulations to everyone who took part and represented us - you all did really well. 

As we all know, Monday mornings can be rather a struggle as we try to re-adjust after the weekend.  However, when Kevin Sutherland, Comic Artist visited us KS2 children had a real treat.  Kev, a respected comic expert, has appeared regularly on TV and radio.  He certainly enthused and educated the children as he talked about his work and ran workshops that taught them techniques and tricks of the trade.  It was a special day that was immensely valuable and I am sure the ripple effects will remain for a long time to come.    

The other significant event of October was the Annual Governors Report to Parents, which, in conjunction with the P.T.A. A.G.M, is always a key occasion.  We said goodbye to some committee members who have 'served their time' and welcomed aboard new ones.  We are very grateful for the support of our committed parents both past and present and the work they do for our school. 

Mark Stratta.

First Steps Parent and Toddler Group

A big THANK YOU to everyone who baked, donated and supported the Coffee Morning on Saturday 11^th October.  We were very pleased to raise over £200.  We will be buying a new slide for the children. 

If you are looking for Christmas presents, on the third Wednesday in November we will be joined by Grace Spracklen who will be showing us beautiful wooden toys (for children and adults) which can be ordered or bought.  Everyone is very welcome at Long Bredy Village Hall on Wednesday 19^th November between 10 o'clock and 12 noon, there will also be coffee, cakes, toddlers and more!  All very welcome.

First Steps Parent and Toddler Group meets on Wednesdays between 10.00am and 12 noon.  Your first session is free and we offer toys and activities for all pre-school 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 Littlebredy Hall and on the fourth Wednesday we meet in either Littlebredy or Puncknowle.  For further details contact:  Jo (Litton Cheney) ... or Julie (Puncknowle) 897178 or Rachel (Kingston Russell and Long Bredy) 482246

Litton Cheney Youth Club meet on Tuesday evenings for those between 8 and 17 years in Litton Cheney and the surrounding villages.  For further details of the sessions read the Litton notes or contact Paul Kingston 482384.

The Giant Sunflower Competition had joint winners Frank and Barbara Whillock and Diana and Freddie Spicer whose sunflowers were both over 3 metres 80 cm.  Well done!

C I E H Foundation Certificate in food Hygiene

In response to requests from a number of local organisations, I have organised a days training to achieve the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health Foundation in Food Hygiene. This qualification is recommended for anyone who is preparing and serving food to the public in any venue. At the end of the course a short test paper is completed, and on passing, the candidate receives a certificate valid for up to 5 years.

The course will be held:-

ON:          Monday 3^rd November , from 10.00a.m. until 4.30 p.m.

AT:           Burton Cliff Hotel.

COST : £30.00 per person, payable a week in advance.

This includes a text book, certificate, tea and coffee. Please bring your own picnic lunch as time will be limited.

For further details and booking please ring Gillian Knight on 01308 897879.

BRIDE VALLEY GARDENING CLUB

We are now back into the Gardening Club year - which started with the very successful and pleasant occasion of the Mini - Show in September. There were many entries and an excellent turn out to judge - once again we were blessed with a spectacularly beautiful afternoon's sunshine - thanks again to Penny Pither and the team for all the hard work!!

The results of this Show are    -

1.The Fry cup for Overall Winner  - Betty Champkins

2.The Barker Bowl for Fruit and Veg - Paul Kingston

3.The Coombes Cup for Handcraft - Pauline Macaulay

4. The WI Cup for Rose      -   Ann Miles

5.The WI Cup for Pot Plant- Mary King

6.The WI Cup for Herbs      -   Betty Champkins

7. The Floral Cup         -   Norma Millard

8. The May Tankard for Annuals - Ann Miles

At the time of going to press, we have not yet had the October meeting when Michael Michaud is to speak to us again from the Chilli Farm, West Bexington. The next indoor Meeting will be as usual on the second Monday of the month i.e. November the 10th, when we have the return visit of Katherine Crouch previous winner of BBC Gardener of the Year. She gave us a highly hilarious talk last year and this year will lead a Garden Design Troubleshooting evening. As usual this will be at Thorners School, Litton Cheney and starts off at 7.30 p.m.

Future Dates:-

8th December     Chris Yeats    Roses   - Old and New  Followed  by our Cheese and Wine Party

12th January       Chris  Hunter  -  Growing fruit

9th  February      David Hitchcock         -  Songbird Aquilegias

8th March          Val Hurlston-Gardiner - Painswick Rococo Gardens

Norma Millard     Club Secretary  897774.

Ladybirds will meet for a Craft Evening on Wednesday 12^th November at Thorner's School, Litton Cheney 7.30pm for 8 o'clock.   

Bridport Stroke Club

We are a happy, friendly Club meeting every Wednesday from 10.00am to 12 noon. Our activities include talks, outings, art, socializing and others. We warmly welcome, as new members, those from the Bride Valley who have experienced a stroke.

Enquiries to:- Thelma ( 01308 898032 ) or

                        Jenny     ( 01308 897238 )

A Plea from the Editor

 To those who submit type-written copy for scanning either to their Village Correspondent or directly to the Editor.

The following is an extract of text that has been scanned from one of this month's contributions - needless to say I had to re-type the article! I can cope with one or two such 'disasters' in the few days I have to prepare for Creeds, the printer, but if everything arrives at the last minute it does mean I have rather too many late night sessions.  

I^lIciping, cx-scr~, iccmicn and "Dmenmultharde9end@nts      ifishasbeen a c h i e ^-ve d o', i I y b    ¹1:1¹1 -; e I i c 1 p) o  p c o p 1 C       C ^-~oiui^-seives generotisl~N g-6ng, vvillinOy

For those of you who use a word processor may I pass on a few suggestions for easing the situation?

1.      Make sure your printer is not running out of ink.

2.      Copy should be sent unfolded and without creases or smudges; thin type-writing paper should be avoided.

3.      Any corrections  or hand-written additions should be written below the text or in the margin and mistakes should not be crossed out.

4.      Headings should be in lower case in order to give continuity to the lay out.

5.      Don't worry about formatting ( no bold, underlining, italics etc.) as I usually have to re-do it after scanning. I use Times New Roman 12pt; anything smaller is at times too small for the scanner to read correctly. Arial is another clear type of which the scanner seems to approve.

6.        Only single spacing should be used and alignment should be to the left; the use of tabs & tables should be avoided if at all possible.                 

.and it certainly does not appreciate having to interpret coffee stains!

Forgive me if much of this is obvious and apologies if I appear to be "teaching my grand-mother to suck eggs."

Susan Paul

BURTON BRADSTOCK                                           

Village Correspondent  Mr Basil Dent

2, Norburton, Burton Bradstock. Tel:- (01308) 897125

*********************************************************

Mid Week Worship -                                                                    

Holy Communion                  Wednesdays at 10.00 a.m.

Choir Practices                       Fridays at 6.00 p.m.

Bell Ringing Practices           Thursdays at 7.00pm

Gift Sundays                           9^th   November  RBL Poppy Appeal
23^rd November  Children's Society

The next Healing Service at St Mary's will be held on Monday 3^rd November at 7.30pm

The next Tiny Tots / Pram Service will be held on Friday 7th November at 11.00 am.

The Parochial Church Council next meets on Monday 17^th November at 7.00 pm in church.

We acknowledge with many thanks the gift of wine and water cruets for the chapel altar.  These were given by their daughters Jan and Julia in thanksgiving for a special year in the lives of their parents Freddy and Elaine Tame, and were dedicated by the Rector at Evensong on Sunday 21^st September.

Two Special Sunday Services for the two Sundays in November when there will only be one Service. 

On Remembrance Sunday (9^th November) there will be a special Evensong of Remembrance at 6.30pm which, although it will be a normal Evening Prayer, will take the Remembrance Sunday theme and carry the same sermon as in the official Royal British Legion Service of Remembrance at Puncknowle in the morning. 

On Advent Sunday (30^th November) which this year falls on a 5^th Sunday, the 11.00am Service will be Holy Communion ( Traditional Order 2 ) and we will take the opportunity to sing as many Advent hymns as possible.  However, do not fear, the Service will be its normal length, as there will be no Gloria and a shortened address. 

Christingle Service

This lovely Service in aid of the Children's Society will be at 4.00pm on 23^rd November followed by tea for everyone in the W.I. Hall.  Please bring a plate of food to share at the tea.  This can be left at the hall between 3.30pm - 4.00pm.                                                Anthony Ashwell

Harvest Supper

Very many thanks to Sue Linford, Barbara Powell and their helpers for organizing such a very happy evening. Thanks, too, to David Powell and his merry team for adding to the fun and enjoyment, even for those of us with three left feet! I'm reserving my ticket for next year.                       S.P.

Bride Valley Scout Group

The members of the Group would like to thank Mike Read and the churchwardens for a splendid ceremony during the Harvest Family Service on 5^th October at St Mary's Church.  Mike blessed a new Scout Flag, and one of the Leaders, Richard Hunt, received an award, presented by District Commissioner Charles Davis, in recognition of him having completed all his training.  We were also very pleased to see Roger and Margaret Higham and their sons, representing West Bay Sea Scouts, in the congregation supporting Bride Valley Scout Group, thank you all. 

Steve Dove, Chairman BVSG

Church of England Children's Society

Would all those people who have kindly held Home Donation Boxes please note that it is the time of year for these boxes to be handed in for emptying and the proceeds forwarded to the Society. Boxes can be left with the Post Office, Bridge Cottage Stores, Greta Heal ( 897539 ) or Basil Dent ( 897125 ). Please ring either of these numbers if you would like your box collected. If anyone else would like to help the Society by having one of the Society's boxes, please ring Greta on 897539.

Greta Heal

                           Christmas Greetings

in the BVN in aid of St. Mary's Church Funds. 

If you would like to participate, don't forget that Ken Pett needs your name(s) [as you would like it/them listed on the greetings page in the December issue] plus your donation, as soon as possible and no later than 5th November. Cheques should be made payable to St. Mary's P.C.C.

Ken Pett, Mill Gate House, Annings Lane, Burton Bradstock, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 4QN.    Tel: 01308 897 550

Burton Bradstock Parish Council

1. Parish Maintenance Units:

During the months of October and April staff from Dorset County Council were/will be spending some time in Burton Bradstock, repairing pot holes, edges of road, removing overhanging branches etc. They are not, however, responsible for work on A Class roads. So if there is an area you are concerned about contact the Parish Clerk and he will inform the maintenance units.

2. Recruitment of Independent Custody Visitors:

Are you over 18, of good character and a resident in Dorset? Are you able to make informed, unbiased observations? If so, you could be just who Dorset Police Authority is looking for!

Visitors are wanted to make independent unannounced visits to police stations to check on the welfare of people held in custody!

Contact Linda Wise, Assistant to the Police Clerk on 01202/01305 223966 for more information.

3. Affordable Housing:

Dorset Community Action's Rural Housing Enabler will be attending the next Parish Council meeting on the 12th November 2003, along with WDDC Housing Strategy Officer to look at the possibility of some land within the development boundary being made available for affordable housing.

4. Youth Club:

The club has re opened for the winter period, but they are very desperate for voluntary helpers. Contact Elise Ripley or Fel Moore if you can help. We don't want to close this popular club down!

Fel Moore  Parish Clerk

Police Community Support Unit

In future the above unit will visit the village on the second Tuesday of each month ( 11^th November & 9^th December ) from 10.00 - 11.30 am.

BURTON BRADSTOCK PLAYGROUP

We are a small community group aiming to provide a stimulating environment in which children may develop socially, physically, intellectually, creatively and emotionally through purposeful play in accordance with the guidelines of the Early Learning Goals of the National Curriculum.

We are open 3 mornings each week ( Monday, Wednesday & Friday ) 9.30 am to 12 noon at the W. I. Hall, Church Street, Burton Bradstock.

We currently have vacancies available - please feel free to call in during session times, where a warm welcome awaits you. Alternatively, if you would like to phone, the number for session times only is 07789-341482 or you can call me at home on 01308-898143 and I will be pleased to answer any questions.

Debbie Cobb, Acting Playgroup Leader

Burton Bradstock Village Society

The new season got off to a flying start on 19th September when Village members, visitors, and friends were treated to a tale of jungle exploration by Shirley Critchley when she gave a talk on The Elephants of Nepal.

Shirley was a member of the National Trust when she replied to an advert seeking volunteers for The Scientific Exploration Society trip to Nepal. She then found herself trekking through the Nepalese jungle on the back of an elephant, having accepted the role of "diarist."

They eventually found the largest known  Asian Elephant standing at 11 ft - 3 ins to the shoulder and during the rest of her trip had close encounters with the likes of Rhino, Snakes, Tigers, and other animals not normally seen in Burton Bradstock!

Her next trip is to India and we wish her well.

Peter Dutton

Burton Bradstock Village Society - Change of Speaker "Iceland"

Please note our change of speaker for Friday, 14^th November.  Richard Edmonds apologises for having to postpone his planned talk, but we are most fortunate that Jonathan Carrivick has kindly agreed to come back to the Society and tell us all about his recent charity trek across Europe's largest ice cap in Iceland.  Many local people sponsored this 3-man expedition, which to date has raised more than £8,000 for The Royal Marsden Hospital in London, so we are delighted to welcome him back so soon after his successful adventure.  Members, guests and sponsors are all invited to come to the W.I. Hall, Burton Bradstock, at 7.30 pm on 14^th November

Burton Bradstock W.I

Burton Bradstock W.I. now have new stage curtains for their hall, thanks to a legacy received from Trudy Hodgson.

The quiz night on Friday the 10th October was a great success and everyone seemed to enjoy the evening and the varied questions. Members are looking forward to their Christmas Lunch on l1th December and it is hoped to have a party in the hall in the new year. At the Coffee morning on the 29th November there will be a display of craft work when contributors vie for the Dorothy Seward Cup.The reading group enjoyed a visit from the author Margaret Graham which they found very informative. The Outing to Miss Saigon is now full.

Local Computer Training

There are still a few places left on taster sessions for people wishing to use computers for record keeping (databases), word processing or web publishing. Databases are ideal for keeping details such as lists of Christmas/birthday presents, music or recipe collections, a record of birthdays, address lists or customer details. Word processing can be used to produce professional looking documents such as letters, posters and invitations, you can even produce your own individual letter headed notepaper or reduce the time involved in sending out the type of letters that you might send out with Christmas cards. Finally, the web publishing session is ideal for anyone who'd like to know how to set up a website on the Internet. 

Overall, the taster courses offer you the chance to try out new things on computers at very little cost.  If these courses are successful there is the possibility that follow on courses will be offered. 

The tutors will be from LymeNet, a training centre based in Lyme Regis and the courses will be held in the Reading Room in Burton Bradstock.

Bookings can be made by e-mailing Karen Venn on venn@boltblue.com or phoning 01308 897094 between 5pm and 7pm weekday evenings.  After booking, cheques should be made payable to 'Burton Bradstock Website Committee'.

Local Adult Education courses in December

In addition to the courses being offered by LymeNet, Adult Education is bringing a mobile training unit, equipped with computers, to the local area at the beginning of December.  The unit is likely to be sited either in Bridport or Burton Bradstock but details had not been confirmed at the time of going to print.  Likely courses include:

- Buying a computer for Christmas

- Buying a digital camera for Christmas

- Photoshop elements: have fun with your photos (taster)

- Introduction to the Internet & e-mail

- Desk top publishing (taster)   

If you want a break from computers, there will also be some courses that are not related to computing.  You can book a place or to obtain more details by telephoning 01305 264997 between 9am and 5pm or Bill Walker on 07971 856878 

Thank you to the children and staff of Burton Bradstock School and to St. Mary's Church for the lovely Harvest gifts received. They are much appreciated.

Arthur Ankrett

SHIPTON GORGE

Village Correspondent: Mrs. Joy White

Eastcote  3 Gullivers Orchard  Shipton Gorge

Tel: ( 01308 )897974

*********************************************************

The Parochial Church Council next meets on Wednesday 12^th November at Virginia House.

FROM THE PARISH REGISTERS

Funeral                       24^th September Ivy F. Legg

Church Tower Repairs

Inspection of the church tower has shown that over the last winter there has been a rapid deterioration of the parapet stonework. Unfortunately, when the ham stone parapet, which was constructed from reclaimed stonework, was fitted on the tower in Victorian times many of the stones were incorrectly set with their grain vertical rather than horizontal. Over the years this has allowed much greater water penetration into the stonework and heavy frosts have started to split the stone apart down its grain. It is now obvious that there are major splits and break­up of the parapet stonework, which is not only a danger to anyone near the tower but falling stonework has already broken a number of the roof tiles. 

On the recommendation of John Turnbull, the Church Architect, all 21 raised segments of the parapet are to be professionally capped with shaped lead sheeting, which will show just 6inches over the tops. This will keep out water from the end grain of the exposed stonework and greatly prolong its life. The cost will be just under £1500 so we will not require the delay of obtaining a Faculty from the church authorities and, importantly, will save ourselves having to find the much larger sums needed to renew stonework.

The Churchwardens

ST. MARTIN'S ADVENT FAMILY SERVICE SUNDAY, 30th NOVEMBER, 3.00 p.m;

Everyone is welcome to join us on this important day in the church year. We have invited our Bride Valley Team Vicar, the Rev. Anthony Ashwell to lead our worship, and our young people will again take an active part in the service. 

Tea and treats will be available in the village hall as usual.

The Church Wardens.

DORSET HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST CYCLE RIDE

On Saturday, 13th September, seven young cyclists joined Bob, Penny and myself on a trip to visit all the churches in our beautiful Bride Valley. The conditions were perfect, and we met many other cyclists en route. We enjoyed a picnic lunch at Little Bredy, then most of us cycled back to Shipton Gorge-saying hello to a rather haughty llama, living in a field between Little and Long Bredy.

It was a great day out, and we raised £404-50 in sponsorship, half of which will benefit St. Martin's church, so well done everybody, especially: Jason, Gemma, James, Merrilyn, Matthew, Jessica and Tommy.

Janet Lane

WORLD'S BIGGEST COFFEE MORNING

£179-93 was raised for Macmillan Relief at this very enjoyable event, and we are very grateful to all our loyal helpers who ran stalls and served coffee, and made the morning so successful.

Janet Lane

GRAND CHRISTMAS BAZAAR -SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6th, 10.30a.m., to 12.30p.m.,

All proceeds from this event will go to St. Martin's Church, and anything and everything connected with the festive season will be on sale in the village hall. 

Some of our local artistic friends are already making gifts, cards and decorations for the Christmas tree, and of course seasonal food and drink will be most acceptable.

Please contact Gillian Maxfield: 897 346, or Janet Lane: 897 241, if you would like to contribute items to the Bazaar. Any other ideas will be very welcome.

Gillian Maxfield and Janet Lane

Parish Council

Jeff Fisher has taken over from John Bredemear as Parish Clerk. Jeff lives at Courtfield Cottage, Shipton Road, DT6 4NJ and can be contacted on 01308 897388. 

Villagers are requested not to fill potholes in Burbitt Lane with rubble or ash. These only get washed out and block the drains and grips down Shipton Road. The District Council has significantly improved the state of the lane in the last year and are being encouraged to continue their efforts.                                                                                          Jeff Fisher

SHIPTON GORGE HOME WATCH

Once again the clocks have gone back and the darkness takes over. Please make sure that your sheds and out-houses are secure, as garden tools and machinery are very easily disposed of by the petty criminals. 

I hope any new arrivals in Shipton Gorge are aware of our Homewatch system. Details can be obtained from me or your local co-ordinator, whose name is displayed on our three Village Noticeboards.

Frank Rogers Telephone No 897821

 PRE CHRISTMAS GET TOGETHER

Arrangements have been put in place, for this year's Pre Christmas Get Together. The date is the 30th November, at 12 noon, in the Village Hall (Shipton Gorge). Everyone from the village is invited and is asked to bring along a bottle or two and some eats. For those who have not been before, it is a good chance to meet and get to know other villagers. 

Please contact either Christine or Robert Cornish on 897833 if you require further information.

Shipton Gorge Village Hall

The film Chicago (12A) will be shown in the Village Hall on Wednesday 26th November. Catherine Zeta Jones as nightclub star Velma Kelly and Renee Zellweger as wannabe Roxie Hart, finding themselves on notorious Murderess Row for shooting their faithless menfolk, set out to prove that "with the right song and dance you can get away with murder " in Rob Marshall's stylish and energetic version of Rob Fosse 's musical. Black humour, great songs, terrific dance routines and Richard Gere co-starring as cynical lawyer Billy Flynn. Great film; don't miss it. Tickets available, from the New Inn or from Doris Benselin (16 Rockway, tel. 897562).

Advance notice

This year's Christmas Bingo will take place in the Village Hall on Wednesday 10th December. Eyes down at 7.30pm.

 A big thank-you to all the people of Shipton Gorge for making my 90^th birthday such a memorable one.                           Phillis Penney  15, Rockway

Shipton Gorge Village Hall 100 Club

Winners for the October Draw

SWYRE

Village Correspondent: Sid Marshall

3 Green Barton, Swyre Tel: 897318

s.marshall@which.net

*********************************************************

From the Registers

Holy Baptism     Lauren Olivia Poynton on  28^th September 2003

Colin and Sylvia Purchase's granddaughter was blue-eyed and wonderfully content. 

Harvest Thanksgiving

Holy Trinity Church was beautifully and generously decorated for our Service on the evening of 5^th October.  Our gifts were donated to the Pilsdon Community house in Dorchester.

Anthony Ashwell

Puncknowle and Swyre Parish Council 4^th November 2003

The Parish Council will meet at 7.30 on the 4^th November at Puncknowle Church Hall. The main item for discussion will be budget setting for 2004/2005.

Fund raising events for the Air Ambulance to be held at Bull Inn, Swyre

 8^th November.   The Bull Bonfire Bash. A night of fun for all the family. This will include a Guy competition with a prize for the best Guy, a large Bonfire and Fireworks Extravaganza: put these together with fine food and good beer and it will be an evening to remember. 

22^nd November.  Video horse racing. Choose your horse, place your bet and cheer as the horses race on the Video Screens. With prizes for the winners you won't be able to resist a flutter. 

For further details please ring Chris or Sue at the Bull on 897250.

 PUNCKNOWLE & WEST BEXINGTON               

Village Correspondent:  Elizabeth Slater

1, Lytton Close, Puncknowle, Dorchester DT2 9BH

Telephone: ( 01308 ) 897751

**********************************************************

Historic Churches Trust - Sponsored Cycle Ride

Many thanks to everyone who joined the cycle ride and to those who so generously sponsored them. We raised £200 which will be divided equally between The Historic Churches Trust and St Mary's, Puncknowle.                                              Ann Roberts.

BRIDE  VALLEY  FLEDGLINGS PLAYGROUP

 Thanks to everyone who bought our Summer Quiz sheet - also to the Bull Inn, The Crown Inn and Burton Bradstock post office for selling them. In October we welcomed Reuben Kingston to Playgroup and hope he will be happy with us. We have a new committee of parents who run the Playgroup - new chairperson is Sally Jevons, assisted by Jayne Fournier, ourSecretary is Caroline Cox (again!) - thanks to you all for taking it on. The next committee meeting will be to finalise arrangements for our fund-raising

 BINGO NIGHT on Friday  21st NOVEMBER, in Puncknowle Hall  -  eyes down at 7.30pm.

Please feel free to ring me for any information about Fledglings Playgroup.                                      Carol Bennett (Playleader)     01308 897771

Puncknowle and Swyre Parish Council 4^th November 2003

The Parish Council will meet at 7.30 on the 4^th November at Puncknowle Church Hall.

The main item for discussion will be budget setting for 2004/2005.

Puncknowle Art Group

This season we have enjoyed painting lovely coloured foliage cut from our gardens. These meetings give us a chance to swap tips and advice on materials.

Dates for Nov. are - 14t^h working with wax & 28^th - slides by the prize winning photographer David Cantrille on nature and travel.

Christine Molony

LITTON CHENEY                                                          

Village Correspondent:

Mrs. Elizabeth Kingston, 5 Manor Farm Close

news4litton@bridevalley.net

**********************************************************

From the Registers

Holy Matrimony Vanessa Maniatt to Ian Vicary on 27^th September   2003

The Bride was under orders to be really prompt, and she was!  A brilliant beginning to festivities which only got better. 

Ruby Wedding We gave thanks to God on 5^th October for Freddie and Diana Spicer's most special anniversary. 

Anthony Ashwell

Sponsored Cycle Ride

Congratulations and thanks to Eliot, Felix and Theo Jones who raised £40 for Dorset Historic Churches Trust when they pedalled to five churches in the Valley.  Half the sum raised went to the Trust and the other half to St Mary's Church.  Is there someone out there who next year will set a new record for the village by visiting 39 or more Churches?

Litton Cheney Playing Field Association

A big THANK YOU to everyone who participated in and supported the Family Fun Day on Sunday 21^st September.  Over £680 was raised which will be used to fence the young children's play area.  Thank you again.

Litton Cheney Social Committee

Fifteen people enjoyed a really pleasant walk to Eggardon Hill recently.  Eight of us enjoyed a really pleasant walk back, a total of eight miles.  If anyone sees seven lost walkers in the region of  The Spyway Inn at Askerswell please send them back in the right direction home to Litton! 

At the time of writing it is the day after the Harvest Celebration, but lots of you have already said how much you enjoyed the occasion.  Jump at the Sun provided the music to which you all danced so thank you to them and to the caller.  Many thanks also to Ursula and David who provided the meat, Modbury Farm for the cream and Ashley Chase Cheese at Parks Farm for the cheese.

This month:

Saturday 22^nd November 10.00 am meet at the bus shelter for a litter pick.  Please wear gloves.

Future events for your diary:-

18^th and 19^th December Carol Singing 

Friday 2^nd January 2004 Trip to Yeovil to see the pantomine Dick Whittington 2.30 performance.  The cost of a coach to get there and for a ticket will be £13.50.  Tickets will be limited and on a strictly first come first served basis so if you would like to come please register your interest with Eddy on 482260 or me, leaving your name, address and phone number.                                                  Kathy Kourik Secretary 482552

Litton Cheney Needlepoint Project

The Litton Cheney needlepoint project featured in the October issue of "Woman Alive".  A two page spread told the story of how the kneelers were created for St. Mary's Church.  There were photographs of the work in progress and of the completed kneelers and Bishop's chair.

Anyone interested in helping with a new project to make a wall hanging of the village can ring 482301 for information.                                                                                                                                        Ann Miles

The Police Community Support Unit will be at the Bus Shelter between 2 o'clock and 3 o'clock on Tuesday 11^th November.

 Litton Cheney Youth Club

Last month several young people and some brave parents enjoyed Mountain Boarding at Burton Bradstock.  This month the club will be completing entries for the Dorset Youth Association's Christmas Card Competition and Talent Competition.

 The Youth Club will meet on Tuesday 11^th and 25^th November in Litton Cheney Church Hall.  The junior session for those 8-12 years is from 6.30pm to 8.00pm and for those 13-17 years is from 8.00pm to 9.30pm.

A table tennis session will again take place on Thursday 6^th November from 6.30 - 8.00 pm in Litton Cheney Church Hall.

If any adults are interested in playing table tennis either come along to the Church Hall on Thursday 6^th November at 8.00 pm or contact Paul Kingston 482384.

Congratulations and a warm welcome to Litton Cheney's newest young resident Olivia a daughter for Ralph and Sam and first grandchild for Jacqui Daubeney.

LONG BREDY                                                         

Village Correspondent:

Mrs. Elinor Frost, Bridelands ( 482269 )

*********************************************************

From the Registers

Holy Matrimony     Sally Frost to Kevin Reid on 20^th September 2003

This really was a perfect day and the happiest occasion.  We wish Sally and Kevin every blessing in their new life together. 

Harvest Thanksgiving

A big thank you to Rachel and Di who contributed so much to this special occasion on the morning of 21^st September. 

Anthony Ashwell

Bride Valley Young Farmers News

We have a busy few months ahead: our young farmers are off to Warmwell for a roller blade session this month, then again in December to use the dry ski slope.  We have a cinema trip planned, a moonlight walk and a Christmas party to look forward to. 

As members will know, a Whist Drive takes place every month, which is very kindly organised by Mrs Barbara Fry to raise money for our club.  The next Whist evening will take place on the 21^st of November at 7:30pm at Thorner's School.  Other dates for your diary are: 12^th December, 16^th January, 13^th February, 19^th March, 23^rd April and the 21^st of May. 

If anyone could donate a prize, anything from a packet of tea to some toiletries, these would be gratefully received by Rick on 482549 or Barbara on 482496. 

The Whist Drive is open to everyone and new members will be very welcome. 

The AGM went well, thank you to Mr Martin Buckland who has stepped in as our new Vice President, and also to Mrs Mandy Wakely who has joined our advisory team. 

In June we held a sponsored tractor pull which was great fun although hard work. YFC members pulled a grey Ferguson tractor and its driver, Rick Cook, from Long Bredy to the White Horse Inn at Litton Cheney.  A big thank you to all who came out of their homes to support us along the way, and to everyone who has given money, either by way of collection buckets, or sponsor forms.  The final total raised was £285.57 which has been donated to Thorners School to use for new goal posts. 

We meet on alternate Wednesdays at 7:00pm and new faces are very welcome to come along and join us.  For more information or a club programme contact Rick Cook on 01308 482549.

First Steps Parent and Toddler Group Coffee Morning

A huge Thankyou to all who contributed to and supported our well attended and successful coffee morning on 11th October.  We are delighted to tell you that we raised just over £200, which will cover our Pre-School Learning Alliance membership and insurance (about £130 a year) as well as allowing us to replace some worn out toys. Thank you and congratulations all round.

Long Bredy & Litton Cheney WI

A party was held on Tuesday the 7^th October to celebrate the 80^th birthday of the WI.  It was a very happy gathering in the Village Hall at Long Bredy because several former members and some specially invited guests came along to join in the festivities.  Everyone enjoyed the delicious food and then sat back to be entertained by two young men, Phil and David from For Real.  Their music ranged from sad, wistful folk songs to jolly, up-beat refrains.   Despite Phil declaring that they were somewhat overwhelmed by having to entertain such a large group of women, they managed their task beautifully.  Maybe they were a little unnerved after hearing some of the comments about Calendar Girls, a film that seems to have altered the public's image of the WI!

The next meeting, to be held on 4^th November will be at Long Bredy Village Hall.

Valerie Shepherd

Long Bredy Parish News

Margaret and John Cook celebrate their Golden Wedding this month.  Very best wishes and congratulations to them both. 

On Friday the 19^th September, Guy Harrison and Nichola Reed were married at St Kentigerns RC Church, Blackpool.  They will be making their home at Thornton, Lancashire. 

On Saturday 20^th September Sally Frost and Kevin Reid were married at St Peter's, Long Bredy.  We wish both couples a long and happy life together. 

A set of new goalposts have been bought for the playing field and will be erected shortly.  A special thank you to the volunteers who keep the playground mown and tidy.

LITTLEBREDY                                                             

"Last Sunday" Service

Our routine 4^th Sunday Holy Communion this month will be on the 5^th Sunday, 30^th November (Advent Sunday) at 11.00am. 

Anthony Ashwell

LITTLEBREDY NOTES.

September's Harvest Thanksgiving Service and subsequent Harvest Supper in the Village Hall were alike well attended and greatly appreciated by those able to be there.  Many thanks indeed to Judy and her team for the Church Decorations, to the Rev. John Atkinson for a splendid service to mark his Littlebredy "farewell", and to all those who provided food and drink for the Supper.  Surplus perishables from the Church were later donated to the Pilsdon Community's "Half Way House" in Dorchester, and the staff and residents there also send grateful thanks. 

Annette Hallett's bowls career continues from strength to strength.  Her latest achievement (with a male partner also from the Dorchester Club) has been to reach the last 8 in the National Mixed Pairs Championship, played at Egham, Surrey at the end of September.  They lost their quarter-final - by the narrowest possible margin - to the eventual winners.  Those who follow the jargon will have been able to understand the technicalities of the article in the "Echo" tracing the course of the epic match.  Congratulations, as ever, Annette - and to the ever-loyal travelling supporter, too... 

"Remember, Remember the 7th of November."  Not quite how the song goes, I admit, but it is the day (Friday) of a bonfire and fireworks evening on the Village Green this year.  The bonfire will be lit at about 6.30 p.m., followed by fireworks, to which all are welcome - provided they bring a firework.  There will be a Guy Fawkes competition for youngsters; entries will be judged afterwards at the Village Hall, where there will be a communal supper, so please could all attenders please bring a plate of food as well.

Anniversary Event for November 2003

Tues 11th - Sun 16th - Encore Theatre

Wed 26th- Bridport Heritage Forum Talk, Town Hall  Old Photos of Bridport