loddon valley link 201309 - september 2013

September 2013

The Loddon Valley Link Church and Parish Magazine

for Sherfield-on-Loddon, Stratfield Saye and Hartley Wespall with Stratfield Turgis

Issue 460

Services for September 2013

*Drive up close to the white gates, which will open automatically .

Children are welcome at all our services. Services in italics are particularly geared to children and families. BCP = Book of Common Prayer.

Sunday 1st September Trinity 14

10.00am Holy Communion St Leonard’s Sherfield 10.00am Family Service St Mary’s Stratfield Saye* 6.30pm Evensong with Holy Communion St Mary’s Hartley Wespall

Sunday 8th September Trinity 15 10.00am Morning Worship St Leonard’s Sherfield with Sunday Club Friday 4.15pm Messy Church Sherfield Park Community Centre

Sunday 15th September Trinity 16 10.00am Holy Communion St Leonard’s Sherfield with Sunday Club 10.00am Matins with Communion by Ext St Mary’s Stratfield Saye* 6.30pm Evensong St Mary’s Hartley Wespall

Sunday 22nd September Trinity 17

8.00am Holy Communion BCP St Mary’s Hartley Wespall 10.00am Harvest Family Service St Leonard’s Sherfield

Sunday 6th October Trinity 19 10.00am Holy Communion St Leonard’s Sherfield 10.00am Harvest Family Service St Mary’s Stratfield Saye* 6.30pm Evensong with Holy Communion St Mary’s Hartley Wespall

Sunday 29th September Trinity 18

10.00am Benefice Holy Communion St Leonard’s Sherfield

with Sunday Club

Harvest Festival - relevant or out of date?

During September and October, schools and churches will be celebrating the gathering of crops and produce with Harvest Festival services. In our contemporary society when you can buy almost anything at any time of the year, what’s the point?

Until the arrival of what we call the Industrial Revolution in the 1800’s most people worked on the land and lived in villages. Now a majority live in towns and cities. Few people moved beyond their homes and villages and a child’s education consisted of what they learned from their parents or grandparents. Today people move with ease from place to place, country to country, and government has taken responsibility for the education of our children. At one time the day was governed by sunrise and sunset and the year by its seasons. Today we are governed by the clock, artificial light and instant 24/7 communica-tions. Values were learned from parents, communities and the Church and identity was about where you belonged; today values are relative and individualistic, identity is about what you achieve or how much you have in the bank.

How life has changed. Even in the lifetime of some of us ‘wrinkles’ it is difficult to remember just how simple and basic life was e.g. Izal toilet paper - try and explain that to your children or grandchildren! So, what is the point of celebrating an agricultural festival, beyond the sentimental quaintness of decorating a building with carrots and cabbages?

Harvest is one of the main festivals found in the Jewish Bible (Old Testament), it is called Succoth. The people were encouraged to build shelters open to the sun and stars, decorate them with the fruits of harvest and sleep in them for a week and celebrate. Why? As a reminder that this life is transitory and that God is the giver and sustainer of life and the One who provides for our every need.

We have become removed from the rhythm of the sun, the moon and the seasons, we have become distanced from the land which provides us with food and we have become strangers to the God of wonders who gives us the gift of life itself. Harvest does have a place. It provides us with the opportunity to stop, to recognise that apples grow on trees not in shops and to reconnect. It also gives us a reason to celebrate and be thankful, another quality we are in danger of losing. Rejoice! God has given us the fruits in their season!

Christian greetings,

BREACH LANE CHAPEL Sherfield on Loddon Geoff Belsham 01256 882534

CATHOLIC SERVICES

Church of St Bede, Popley (www.vinntec.co.uk/hg/)

Contact Fr. Dominic Golding, Parish Office, Tues to Fri, 9.30am-1.00pm Tel: 01256 465214.

Sunday Mass 9.00 am, 11.00 am, and 6.30pm

September 2013 Services

Sunday 1st 10.30am Family Worship led by Neil Owen

3pm Special Farewell Celebrations for Rev C Russell at Frimley Road

Thursday 5th 2.30pm NEW – Church Walk starting at the

Chineham Arms

7.30pm Bible Study at 9 Coopers Lane, Bramley

Friday 6th 10.30am Open Morning at Chapel

7pm Deacons Meeting

Saturday 7th 2.30pm DCF at Frimley Road

Sunday 8th 10.30am Family Worship led by Graham Locke

3pm Bible Study in Chapel

Tuesday 10th 10.30am Open Morning at Chapel

Sunday 15th 10.30am Family Worship led by Steve Smith

11am Youth Group – “The Flock”

Tuesday 17th 7.45pm Church Members Meeting

Sunday 22nd 10.30am Family Worship led by Neil Owen plus

Holy Communion

3pm Bible Study in Chapel

Wednesday 24th 2.30pm Midweek Fellowship

Sunday 29th 10.30am Harvest Festival led by Geoff Belsham

12.30pm Harvest Lunch

ST. LEONARD’S CHURCH

Saturday Open Days

September 7th 14th and 21st

A list of all the Open Day dates for the year is displayed in the lych gate at the church. Everyone is welcome to visit for quiet reflection, a prayer, to study the

architecture and history of the church or to view with a wedding in mind.

Editorial

Welcome to the September edition of the ‘Link’.

This has been a busy time for the churches in our benefice. Harvest Festival services are being planned and this year they have a special meaning and resonance because they mark the culmination of Bob’s ministry to us as he looks ahead to his retirement in October.

Details of the Harvest Festival can be found on page 43 when the collection will be given towards Christian Aid. There is also information about the Harvest Lunch and Auction of Promises.

For your diary: Bob’s Farewell service is on Sunday, 27th October.

As always comments, criticisms, etc. are welcome. Address them to editor@loddonvalleylink. hampshire.org.uk

Contents Church Services 2

Bob’s Pastoral Letter 3

Breach Lane Services 4

Bob and Rody ‘at home’ 8

Men and Women’s Breakfast 12

Text for the Month 15

Aloe Vera assessed 17

Messy Church 20

Village history 25

Chris Tomblin’s report 26

Headway 28/29

Charles Griffith Part 1 30/31

Village Hall matters 37

Beat Officer’s report 41

Beer Festival 45

Useful Numbers 51

Small Ads 53

Cover: “Waiting to bat” with members of Sherfield

Cricket Club. Photo: Brian Archer

Renowned for delicious

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White Hart, Reading Road, Sherfield on Loddon,

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www.LoddonValleyLink.hampshire.org.uk

Andrew Doggart - Licensed Reader

Andrew is a Senior Physicist at the Royal Berkshire Hospital in Reading. He worships at St Leonard’s and is a talented organist.

Andrew has been training to be a Licensed Reader in the Church of England for the last two years. This will enable him to lead and preach at all Services, with the exception of giving Holy Communion. A mini Vicar!

He will joining Dr John Williams and Richard Elphick, who are also Licensed Readers, to serve the Churches in our Benefice and our sister Church in Bramley.

Andrew will be Licensed at Winchester Cathedral 11am on 12th October.

Parish Registers

Weddings

Sarah Harris 31.8.13 Sherfield & Andrew Marshall

Confirmation

Syb Sumner 18.8.13 Bramley Julie Miller 18.8.13 Bramley Sarah Harris 18.8.13 Bramley Andrew Doggart 18.8.13 Bramley

Sherfield Fete. There is a raffle prize that has still to be collected. Ticket Number 1033 signed McG. The ticket holder can claim the prize by contacting Sandy Johnston, Telephone 01256 882507.

Reminder - Toddlers at St Leonard’s

Due to Bob’s retirement, Toddler Time on the red mat for babies to 5’s will be temporally suspended. However, Toddlers will be welcome at St. Leonard’s services and at the Messy Church.

At home with Bob and Rody

Saturday 14th September

33 Northfield Road

10.30am - 7.30pm

If you’d like to pop in during the day and say farewell whether you are from Church, Neighbours, the Village we would be very pleased to see you.

10.30am - 12.00pm - Coffee 12.00pm - 2.00pm - Bite of Lunch

2.00pm - 5.30pm - Tea 5.30pm - 7.30pm - Drinks & Nibbles

Thank you!

The Basingstoke Foodbank have asked for their thanks to be passed on for all of the contributions made so far by the people of Sherfield to the Foodbank at The Shop in Sherfield.

They are very grateful for all the food and other products given which has enabled them to provide for 1000 local families this year.

The need is getting greater so the more people donate to the Foodbank in The Shop the more people will be helped.

For more information go to : basingstoke.foodbank.org.uk

Bramley and Romans Floral Society

On Thursday August 1st, Margaret Cropper, a member of our committee

gave a demonstration on how to make fans & incorporate them into an

arrangement. We were all pleased with our finished result. On September

5th we are having a CORAL celebratory lunch as the club is 35 years old at

12 noon followed by a demonstration titled `Movies from the Mansion.

Contact Dusty on 01256 881420 for tickets for the lunch which are £10 for members and £12.50 for visitors

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VOICES IN HARMONY

On 28 September Basingstoke Ladies’ Choir and Basingstoke Male Voice Choir will join forces to present a concert at Douai Abbey, which is home to a community of Benedictine monks. The programme will include For the Beauty of the Earth, Agnus Dei, Ave Verum, Laudate Dominum, The Irish Blessing, The Lord is My Shepherd.

The concert starts at 7.45pm. Tickets (£10) are available from The Corn Exchange, Newbury, Tel: 0845 5218218, www.cornexchangenew.com, or from Tony Eaton (01256 327033) or Maria Chung (01256 781486).

Men’s Breakfast

Saturday 28th September 8.30am

Stratfield Saye Village Hall

Very Special Speaker - Revd Bob Politt

Talking on: ‘The King & I’ please give your name to Sammie Armstrong 0118 9816593/ [email protected]

Women’s Breakfast

Saturday 5th October 8.30am

Cross House, Bramley

Very Special Speaker - Rody Politt

Talking on: ‘‘Are you there God?’

please give your name to Carol Armstrong 0118

9816593/[email protected]

Everyone Welcome!

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J Cook Landscapes

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Patios & Driveways

Garden Design & Build

Clearance

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e: [email protected] www.jcooklandscapes.co.uk

For information call: 0118 932 6308 Brochure hotline: 0118 932 6480

www. wellington-riding.co.uk e-mail: [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

ELLIOTT’S

LANDSCAPING

Tree Surgery

Stump Grinding

Hedge Cutting

Fencing

Decking

Power Washing

Turfing

Garden Maintenance

Peter Elliott 01256 883743

Mobile: 07725 749 644

www.classictreeservices.co.uk


www.ovenclean.com

PHONE 01276 473118

TEXT FOR THE MONTH

John 12 : 24

Jesus said “Very truly I tell you, unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produc-es many seeds”.

The NIV Bible

Prayer for the Month.

Living God, creator of all that is and has been and shall be, we thank you for the month that we always associate with this time of harvest and all the riches of the world and for all that you provide for us. Teach to use your gifts wisely, responsibly, effectively, so that we waste nothing. Help us to remember those who do not share equally in the rewards of harvest; the poor in our own country and through-out the world, the homeless and those whose crops have failed. Save us, we pray from selfish indulgence. Forgive us that some still go hun-gry, stir our hearts that we may challenge the consciences of govern-ments and nations until the time comes when your gifts are shared and enjoyed by all.

In the name of Jesus Christ our Saviour Amen

Prayer Points for September

Pray for Bramley school and especially for the children who will be starting their education there in September.

Pray for all children who are changing schools and for those who are moving to higher education, calm their fears and help them to trust in you.

Pray for world leaders at this time of anxieties, worries and uncertainty about the future. May they be able to work together to bring peace and succour to all.

Team Pedal Power's Basingstoke to Paris and back again Cycling Challenge:

Thank you to everyone who sponsored me, supported the cake sale and donated raffle prizes for the Gala Ball. Team Pedal Power completed the 660 mile challenge in 4 days, 13 hours and 40 minutes. It was a thoroughly enjoyable challenge although hard at times. We have raised a total of 12k for Sebastian's Action Trust. Thank you once again!

Clare Burt

Aloe Vera assessed...

Take an opportunity to hear about the exciting health giving benefits of this amazing plant in a relaxed atmosphere at the end of a busy, exhausting or otherwise dull day.

Vanessa Sant is a mine of information and has been invited to share tips and treasures with us in the home of John & Gill Williams, Lawn Farm, Stratfield Turgis on Tuesday 1st October at 7.30pm.

There will be an opportunity to order products if you are interested but primarily this is a time to gather information and ideas for health and beauty, home and healing and maybe even for Christmas. All proceeds to St Leonard’s extension Fund. If you need a lift or directions, please let me know on 882209. Rody Politt

Travellers at Bramley?

We have been asked if the residents of Sherfield-on-Loddon are aware of the planning application below?

http://planning.basingstoke.gov.uk/onlineapplications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=summary&keyVal=MP90Q5CR0C000

The land in Cufaude Lane has been split into 48 plots. 47 of these have been sold to travelling families. This is the first application for one of the plots to house a travelling family. The families would use the schools, GPs and other facilities in Bramley.

http://planning.basingstoke.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=summary&keyVal=MP90Q5CR0C000

http://planning.basingstoke.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=summary&keyVal=MP90Q5CR0C000


Goddard’s Lane, Sherfield-on-Loddon HOOK, Hants. RG27 0EZ

The Garage at Sherfield www.thegarageatsherfield.co.uk

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MOT’s Cars and Motorcycles Service

Diagnostics Repairs Air Conditioning Recovery Collection and Delivery service available.

90% of

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Tel: 01256 882271 Mobile: 07812 939 498

Friday 13th September at 4.15pm

September’s session will be: Planting a seed Messy Church’ is a wonderful monthly opportunity for families to get

together, have some fun making things, eating and celebrating God

together.

Everyone welcome!

The session will run something like this:-

4.15pm—arrive and register,

have a drink and a biscuit

4.30pm—Worship, followed by Craft

Activities and then Food!

If you would like a meal for your child it is

now essential to book, For more information

about Messy Church please contact: Amanda Prince on 01256 880733, [email protected]. Or

have a look on Facebook: Messy Church - Sherfield on Loddon.

Flu Clinics at The Clift Surgery

If you are aged 65 or over, or suffer from chronic disease (such as heart, lung, liver, kidney or neurological disease) have diabetes, a weak immune system or if you are pregnant, then you may be at risk from flu.

Ask about a Flu Vaccination now. We will be holding Flu Clinics on:

Saturday 5th October

Wednesday 9th October

Saturday 19th October

Telephone Reception on 01256 881228 for more information.

For a Warm Friendly Welcome

THE SHOP IN SHERFIELD-ON-LODDON Selling a vast range of groceries including:

Local Bakery bread & Cakes Market fresh fruit & veg

Quality fresh meat & poultry Excellent selection of Wine

Beer Spirits & Tobacco

All at competitive prices

THE SHOP, Reading Road, Sherfield

Telephone: 01256 882234

Open: Monday—Saturday 7.00 am to 7.00 pm

Sundays 9.00 am to 5.00 pm Orders taken for Delivery

The Women’s Institute

Reported by Ilene Iles

Dee Bulpitt, our President, opened the Meeting and welcomed everyone. Jerusalem was sung, the Treasurer’s and Secretary’s reports were given and Val Denny mentioned that she has 5 places left for those wishing to visit Mapledurwell to see Doris L’Enfant’s daughter’s Alpacas later in the month. Dee then gave details of a recent Group Meeting, asked whether Members would like a Group Celebration of the WI Centenary in 2015 and suggestions for the format of the event. A general discussion took place concerning the framing of the photograph of those involved in the production of the Millenium Tapestry in the Village Hall and the framing thereof. Thanks were given to Dee for her hard work and research on this matter. Dee advised those present that she had prepared Schedules for the Cookery Competition in November and these were now available. The Business Meeting closed at 2.50 p.m.

This was followed by a very interesting, and at times, very amusing talk by Mr Chris Mounty on Bees and Beekeeping. There are 250 varieties of honey bees in Britain and 30,000 varieties worldwide and 19 common varieties of bumble bees. Tess Morris gave the vote of thanks and a delicious tea followed and the raffle was drawn.

NEXT MEETING: WEDNESDAY, 4TH SEPTEMBER 2013-2 P.M.

SPEAKER: MR PAUL BARRETT – FYFFES BANANAS


Paul Allen Carpentry . Tiling .

General House Maintenance

Local Reliable Friendly Service

Established over 20yrs Tel. 0118 9702243

Email [email protected]

There’s never enough time to do … Garden Clearance, Seasonal Tidies, Grass Cutting, Turfing, Hedge

Trimming, Steam Cleaning (Patios, Paths, Walls), Creosoting.

We offer weekly, fortnightly, monthly, quarterly visits or one-off tidy ups Tel: 01256 880333 or Mob: 07776 211211

www.masonsgardens.co.uk [email protected]

Will’s Garden Services

Tel: 07951917943/01256 881354

Email: [email protected]

A complete range of garden

services: Garden clearance, Mowing,

Hedgetrimming, Paving, Pruning,

Fencing, Turfing, Tree Care


FUNERAL DIRECTORS &

MONUMENTAL MASONS.

ALEXANDER & DRY

Twenty four hour service.

Pre-paid funeral plans available.

1 Seal Road, Basingstoke, RG21 7NQ

Tel: 01256 844663


R. T. Mitchell & Sons

Local Building Contractors est. 1972

HOUSES - EXTENSIONS - ALTERATIONS - GARAGES

LOFT CONVERSIONS

RESTORATION OF LISTED BUILDINGS

45 London Road, Old Basing

Tel: 01256 352225

Web-site – www.rtmitchellandsons.co.uk

e-mail – [email protected]

http://www.rtmitchellandsons.co.uk


SHERFIELD 0-5’S

Every Tuesday 10.00am to 12 noon

Sherfield Park Community Centre

Climbing frame, toys, parachute games, singing,

juice and biscuits, tea and coffee. A great place to meet new people and

make new friends – everyone welcome! Come and join us!

designed to wear out your children!

Contacts: Louisa 01256 881229, Beccy 880894, Kerry 880167


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This could be your advertising space.

Contact Pip Iles for more information - see page 54

EDWARDIAN SHERFIELD Contributed by Sheena Archer

On two evenings in August parties of 20 villagers, who never imagined they would pay £5 to tour the village green! (In aid of St. Leonard’s extension fund), set out to visit the three chapels, four pubs, school, sweet shop, butcher with slaughter-house, carpenters, blacksmith, saddler, harness maker, coal merchant, many builders, glaziers, wheelwrights, laundries, dressmakers, book-

maker and farm around the Sherfield Village Green. The store sold almost as much as Tesco, B&Q, Fabricland and Scats together, with a Post office for telegrams and licences to keep male servants and dogs! Villagers grazed their goats, donkeys and horses on this common land that was interlaced with pathways between cottages and a great variety of village industries. With less than 700 people, including the outlying farms, it was a completely self contained community with work, wages, food, fun and accommodation for all.

Adventurous souls could hire a bicycle from the blacksmith, but a pricey undertaking at 9d per day, when a skilled man’s wage was £1 a week. The railway at Bramley was a new way to travel. A governess walked back and forth from the station daily and produce from the mill was taken to the train.

Oh! and the new sighting of the ghost of the Edwardian lady floating across the village green after dark? It was just me walking home after the tour!

Including Gift Aid the total will be £270.

I am preparing the tour guide (for sale for the fund) so that you can take the historical walk yourself. If you would like to purchase one, I have started a list of those waiting for it. Please contact me: [email protected] or 01256 882099 giving your name and contact details.

Councillor Chris Tomblin’s Page - [email protected]

Summer eventually arrived with the July heat wave and this contributed to a very successful Basingstoke Live event taking place at the War Memorial Park.

Once again Sherfield has been challenged by the travelling community with the eviction costs being met by the Parish Council, further eroding their funds. Last year there were 104 illegal camps in the borough with approximately 19 on BDBC land, 41 on private land and 40 on County Council land. It cost, on average, £500 per site to clear the borough sites, plus legal costs. The Government have recently been vocal over the Traveller issue; let’s see what new powers they give to local councils to help sort this issue for all parties benefit.

The Draft Local Plan was approved at full council on July 25th. This will be out for public consultation late August into September – much of it is available now on the council website. I would urge you all to make your views known as a Government planning inspector will examine the plan and note your comments. Both your local councillors tried to argue the case that the Redlands site should not be developed and possibly be considered as a reserve site but this was not accepted. Some success was gained by the inclusion of “strategic gaps” where no housing would be allowed which aims to avoid linking the village with Basingstoke and Bramley.

Unfortunately there are still issues with many sites and the infrastructure required to make them work. The incomplete transport assessment has identified major traffic flow issues requiring radical road junction modifications -traffic lights at most roundabouts and the roundabouts being made 4 lanes deep! I am not convinced by this mitigation. The true costs have not yet been compiled and more worryingly, where the money is coming from. This important detail was rushed, which if it doesn’t work, will change the face of the Borough for all of us. It is annoying that we have lost a year with the current administration having got the Manydown issue so wrong.

I recently attended the Sherfield School‘s public consultation events concerning its proposed expansion. Whilst I believe this to be a good opportunity for this area with facilities that the community can share, I am concerned as to what solution will be proposed to minimise the impacts of the traffic generated on the A33. A formal planning application is expected in due course. Chris Tomblin Call 880558



The Coach House, Reading Road, Sherfield on Loddon

Garden open for charity under the National Garden Scheme on

Saturday 14th Sept 2pm - 5pm

Adm: £3.50, Children: Free

Right in the heart of the village, we have extensively redesigned and replanted our walled garden over the past 6 years. The garden

includes mature trees, a wide range of plants and grasses chosen for texture and colour, a formal pond, greenhouse

and sunken brick terrace.

Tea and home-made cakes will be available, along with Cornish clotted cream teas. Plants will be available for sale too. We hope to see you!

Jane and Pete Jordan

To raise money for our St. Leonard’s Church Extension

An AUCTION of PROMISES will be held on 22nd

September in Sherfield Village Hall

at 12 noon

Many items to bid for. If you have any item that you

wish to donate, sell or make a Promise

Please contact: [email protected] Tel: 01256 882520

(See Page 43 Harvest Lunch and Auction of Promises)

HEADWAY Basingstoke Headway was formed nationally in 1979 and now has about 130 branches. Headway Basingstoke was soon formed as a charity in 1982 by relatives and carers of people who had sustained acquired brain injury, and has run a successful day therapy and rehabilitation unit for clients from Basingstoke and North Hampshire since January 1986 in partnership with the NHS, with an excellent, professional and indispensable staff at the helm. It has occupied a variety of buildings on the hospital site, finally moving into its current premises in 1995 as a result of the successful HEADFIRST appeal to raise a considerable sum of money to equip and adapt these premises specifically for Headway purposes.

The Management Team and voluntary Trustees have helped hundreds of adults with brain injuries and their families to try and rebuild their lives and regain their confidence and achieve their optimal recovery. Some have been able to

return to work in some form, or return to further education, whilst others continue to attend Headway Place and learn new skills, make new friendships and attain a level of independence they could only dream of in those traumatic days and months immediately post injury; Activities to aid this recovery are many and varied. Workshops to improve both cognitive and practical skills are offered: e.g. memory, attention and language to cooking, art, pottery and gardening (sometimes regarded as a most beneficial of therapies). Additionally, we also offer an external rehabilitation service, accessing local and national

A day out at The Vyne

amenities, i.e. picnics at The Vyne (courtesy of the National Trust), trips to Milestones and the "Watercress Railway Line", Shopping Centres etc.

The Staff and Trustees spend many hours ensuring that the charity meets its objectives and obligations and delivers the best possible service to Headway's clients. For voluntary organisations like Headway it is becoming harder to work in the current economic climate and ever more difficult to recruit additional Trustees. Headway Basingstoke has been admirably supported by the NHS in its different local guises for most of its existence but the changes in funding of public services for both the immediate and long term future has created a situation where the Trustees are forced to rethink how the service is delivered with as little change to the clientele as possible.

Clients have varying degrees of mobility, cognitive impairment, complex needs and dependence and so therapy and long term outcome for each differs greatly, as no two brain injuries are the same. Assessing and meeting these specialised needs is where we feel the strength of Headway Basingstoke lies. In providing many of the activities so beneficial to a rehabilitation and re-enablement process we are fortunate to have regular donors who have been with us for many years and we are also

able to attract others as we run a local service for the benefit of local people. In addition we are extremely grateful for the support and interest from our local MP Maria Miller and nationally, following in his mother's footsteps, Prince Harry!

For further information contact Sandy Johnston on 01256 882507

Headway Place

Prince Harry opening HEADWAY’s new home

HEADWAY

An unsung hero in meteorology: Charles Higman Griffith (1830–1896)

Stephen Burt, Stratfield Mortimer, Berkshire

Charles Higman Griffith (right) was a Hampshire clergyman who, by conducting a series of thorough instrument comparisons in the 1860s and 1870s, played a leading role in the adoption of the Stevenson screen and the five-inch ‘Snowdon’ copper raingauge as UK standard climatological instrumentation. They remain standards to this day. Neither instrument is perfect, but because their design and construction have changed little in more than a century, today’s climate researchers have a wealth of temperature and rainfall measurements from around the world. Without the comparative trials undertaken by Griffith in the garden of Stratfield Turgis rectory over 150 years ago, and the standardisation of instrument types that followed, the world’s climatological records would be much less consistent.

Charles Griffith was born in Tottenham on 10 August 1830. He married Hannah Mockridge from Taunton in 1853. By 1860 he was a member of the clergy and had moved as a curate to the rectory at Stratfield Turgis. In 1862, on the death of the previous incumbent, he became rector of All Saints Church in Stratfield Turgis. He was already a keen naturalist and microscopist, and his diaries abound with detailed observations of plants, insects and natural phenomena, including weather events. He began rainfall records in 1862: these were first published in British Rainfall in 1865, and this was presumably the first time he corresponded with George Symons, the founder of the British Rainfall Organization (BRO).

The raingauge trials at Stratfield Turgis

The founding of the BRO in 1860 was a landmark event in British climatology. In its early years, there were almost as many different types of raingauges, exposures and observational methods as there were observers. As the BRO expanded, the need for guidance to observers on a ‘standard raingauge’ and observing protocol became pressing. In 1863 Symons encouraged and part-funded Colonel Michael Foster Ward, at Castle House in Calne (Wiltshire), to set up a series of gauges of different size, construction and materials, exposed

at various heights above the ground, to examine their relative performance. When Col Ward moved to Switzerland in 1868, Griffith agreed to continue the trials at Stratfield Turgis. The gauges from Calne were duly re-installed there, and by the end of 1868 the rectory grounds contained no less than 42 different rain gauges (right). All gauges were read daily at 9 am during 1868, and monthly in 1869, with the results promptly written up in British Rainfall in 1868 and 1869. In 1870 the gauges from Stratfield Turgis were dismantled and relocated to a windier and more exposed site at Hawsker, near Whitby run by yet another clergyman, Rev. F. W. Stow. The results led to the formal adoption in 1875 of the copper Snowdon ‘five-inch’ diameter gauge as the BRO standard, mounted 1 foot above ground, and read at 9 am daily. As an aside, it has always puzzled me how Griffith managed to get round 42 rain gauges at 9 am. Clearly if it was raining, the daily totals between the first and final gauge would differ, perhaps substantially. It was suggested that Griffith may have run a boarding school in the rectory. Local parish records do confirm a ‘boarding and tutorial establishment for boys’ at the rectory run by Griffith. The 1881 Census does show five teenage ‘scholars’ living in the rectory with Charles and Hannah and their two remaining unmarried daughters. The mental image of a horde of small boys running around the 42 gauges, wrapping up the rainfall observations within minutes, has great appeal, even if there is no unambiguous evidence.

© 2013 Stephen Burt. All rights reserved.

(To be continued in the next edition of the Link).

Experimental Gardens at Stratfield Turgis Rectory, Hants


Happy Faces Playgroup

Sherfield-on-Loddon

“Bring your happy face to our happy place”

A small, friendly playgroup for

children aged 2 years 6 months to school age

Flexible Sessions including all day

Further information: 01256 880903

Prospectus/application form: 07791 141176

[email protected] www.happyfacesplaygroup.co.uk

Est. 1982. Charity No. 1029688


http://www.happyfacesplaygroup.co.uk


M.W (Building Contractors)

Ltd

General Builders maintenance & repairs painting & decorating

electrical incl. appliance testing plumbing & heating

purpose made joinery stockist of rockery stone

Tel: 01256 882736 / 882368 / 0836 626323

Evergreen’s Club reported by May MacQueen

We did not have our usual meeting in the village hall for the month of August and instead went on a river trip from Runnymede to Windsor.

The boat was leaving Runnymede at 11am for Windsor but the driver lost his way and we arrived in Windsor, the time was now around 10.45am and we still had to get to Runnymede. However we arrived at almost 11am just in time after directions from police and also a phone call to the boat company who gave us the post code to enter into the driver's sat nav.

We arrived in Windsor at lunchtime where we had a few hours to do as we pleased. The weather was dry and sunny and just as we were about to leave for the return journey by coach the rain came down in torrents, so we were very lucky. Windsor was as usual very busy with tourists visiting the castle.

The next meeting on Sept 2nd is a talk on the history of Stratfield Saye house and estate.

Village Hall Matters 01256 883624

PROCEEDS FROM THE VILLAGE FETE Over £600 of the proceeds from this year’s Fete has been put aside for distribution to local worthy causes. If you would like to apply on behalf of your group or charity please email [email protected] with a brief explanation of why extra funding is needed and how it would be used to benefit the local community. Closing date for applications is Wednesday 18th September. BEER FESTIVAL SPONSORSHIP The next Sherfield-on-Loddon Beer Festival will be held at the Village Hall on Saturday 28th September 2013. We attract visitors from far and wide and as usual we will be fund-raising for both our own Village Hall and St. Michael's Hospice in Basingstoke. If your company would be interested in sponsorship opportunities this year (including barrel sponsorship and advertising in our tasting notes) please contact us on the telephone number above. VILLAGE HALL MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE The Hall is managed by a committee of volunteers and the post of Chairman recently came up for rotation. We would like to thank Bruce Batting for his efforts over the last few years, and to welcome Ivan Gosden into this role. There is a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes in maintaining our Village Hall, please help us by supporting our fund raising activities – in June we had to cancel the Race Night – not because of lack of support, but for lack of commitment to buy tickets before the night – so please buy your tickets early to avoid this being repeated!

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Sat 14th September - PoSH Coffee Morning Sat 28th September - Sherfield Beer Festival

Sat 12th October – 60’s/70’s Night For more information on clubs and groups, events & booking.

visit:

www.sherfieldvillagehall.co.uk

Sherfield and District Gardening Club

Our autumn schedule begins with a talk by Kevin Hobbs at our September meeting on Monday 16th September. Kevin will be telling us all about ‘Autumn Beauties’. Kevin is a director at Hilliers Nurseries and with all the resources of Hilliers Nurseries to call upon, he will be showing us the wonderful autumn colours of trees, shrubs, perennials and bulbs, many of them unusual cultivars.

Our October speaker on Monday 21st is Pamela Holt. Pamela will be telling us all about the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew. Pamela’s claim to fame is that she trained at the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew with Alan Titchmarsh and tutored Charlie Dimmock at Cannington College in Somerset. She has been a horticultural lecturer for 27 years and has travelled widely in South America and Alpine Europe.

Anyone interested in gardening will be most welcome to join us at the Sherfield Village Hall at 7:45pm. Please contact Linda or Vanessa for more details.

For arrangements contact:

Linda on 882341 or Vanessa on 881760


House to House Results - St. Michael’s Hospice

I would like to thank, the local Community of Sherfield on Loddon for supporting the 2013 House to House Campaign in aid of St. Michael’s Hospice (North Hants) throughout June This year’s collections for Sherfield on Loddon raised a total of £875.46 which is wonderful.

All of the services of the Hospice are provided free of charge to patients and their families, and the money raised will go towards our annual running costs which now stand at £3.6 million, of which £3.0 million needs to be raised through Fundraising and Retail activities.

The continued support of the local community and volunteers is hugely important to everyone at St. Michael’s Hospice. Without this generosity we would be unable to provide the vital services to

patients across North Hampshire. Chris Griffiths


Basingstoke Window Cleaning Services

We use a pure water, reach and wash system for a perfect

smear-free finish

Windows Cleaned Inside

Conservatory Roofs Cleaned

Guttering Cleared & Cleaned

Soffits & Fascias Cleaned For a free, no obligation quote call

Simon: 07852 117 361 Dan: 07712 885 345

West Green Road, Hartley

Wintney RG27 8LP Open June to late September for Pick Your Own & Ready Picked

fruit, vegetables and flowers including Strawberries, Tayberries, Currants,

Gooseberries, Raspberries, New Potatoes, Asparagus and Flowers. We also sell local

Honey, Free Range Eggs and Homemade Jams

CALL 01252 845772 from May 1st

For information, & to place orders.

Or visit www.westgreenfruits.com


ASH BROOK FUNERAL DIRECTORS & MONUMENTAL MASONS

Independent family Funeral

Director

Day or night we provide a

complete personal, caring & professional service for all your

funeral requirements

Dignified funeral service £895

plus disbursements

Please call Terina on 01256 881002 Ash Lane, Silchester, RG7 2NL www.ashbrookfunerals.co.uk

TOTALLY AIRPORTS

CARS AND MPV’S FOR ALL YOUR HOLIDAY

AND BUSINESS REQUIREMENTS

AIRPORTS, DOCKS, LONG DISTANCE

01256 371847 or

07786 546002


Beat Officer’s Report

Speed Enforcement:

There is now a new system where the officer at the scene issues a form (T60) to the motorist; the second copy goes to a department who decide the course of action to be taken on the evidence provided.

Vehicle Crime There was only one incident of vehicle crime in July, which was the theft of a tractor.

Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) the statistics for July were 30 calls: made mainly of incidents relating to travellers or to neighbour disputes.

WPC 504 Mandy Jewell

Beat Mobile:07554 775617 [email protected]

Sherfield Park PC Jim Charlton 21015 and PCSO Richard Strauss 14735 Tel. 101. Email - [email protected]

[email protected]



Harvest Festival

Sunday 22nd September

10.00am at St Leonard’s

We have Charlotte Page from Christian Aid coming to speak to us during the service and the cash collection during the service will be

given to Christian Aid. As usual all food donations will be given to the Loddon School.

Tinned, packaged and fresh food are all welcome.

Followed by the new:

Harvest Lunch & Auction of Promises

Sunday 22nd September,

12.30pm at the Village Hall, Sherfield

This will be a bring and share lunch, bring enough for your family and share it with every-one else! You are welcome to bring a bottle,

Soft drinks will be available.

No charge, any donations will go to Christian Aid

There will also be an Auction of Promises during the lunch - Please see Page 27

All are welcome! - Please RSVP to Rody Politt (01256 882209)

Carl Fanning The Village Decorator

Decorating the Loddon Valley Area

Painter and Decorator

Local Tradesman with 25 years experience

Decorating local properties since 1980

A “Dulux” Trade Member

Good quality Trade Paints used - Internal and external decorating

Free estimates - advice on colour and paints

Full liability cover - all work is guaranteed

Telephone: Carl on 01189 424 883

or 0795 266 1965


.

YOUR LOCAL TRADE PROFESSIONAL FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING, HEATING AND

ELECTRICAL NEEDS

TEL: 01256 880044 MOBILE: 07754 554554

Email: [email protected] www.pscservices.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING SPECIALIST

Bathrooms & shower installations

Solar thermal installations and energy-friendly controls

Gas Safe and Oftec registered for peace of mind with

gas and oil installations 29164

Serving the local community for 30 years

Telephone: 01256 882309



Report by Gill Fearon

NWR Report

Our August meeting was a book discussion

evening. This year we read ‘Hunting Midnight’ by Richard Zimler

which was set in Porto (aka Oporto) in Portugal at the beginning of

the 19th century. The author, born and educated in the USA,

emigrated to Porto and became a naturalised citizen in 2002. He

taught Journalism at the university there, combining it with his writing

and ‘Hunting Midnight’ was published in 2003.The book is the story of

John Zarco Stewart, a Portuguese man born in Porto to a Jewish

Portuguese mother (May) and an atheist Scottish father (James).

The Jewish faith is passed through the mother’s line, so this made

John a Jew, but he was unaware of this until he accidentally found

out, as the Jews were persecuted and they had to keep their religion

secret, pretending to be Catholic. The first half of the book is about

John growing up and the relationships he makes, including

befriending Midnight, an African bushman rescued from slavery in

Africa by his father on his travels for his work as a wine grower in the

Douro valley.

The book goes on to describe the two French invasions during that

period and the help given by the Duke of Wellington. John grows up,

becomes a potter and marries. After the death of his father he learnt

what really happened to Midnight and he vows to try to find him. The

second half of the book is about John’s long journey to make amends

to his old friend. Many of us agreed that we would not have picked

this book up in a bookshop. Overall, everyone enjoyed it and it did

not prove to be as controversial as some previous books we have

read!

Our next meeting, later in August, is a walk around the village with Sheena Archer, learning about how it looked in 1901. All money collected will be donated to the Church Extension Fund. Then in September, our meeting will be a play reading.

USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS Updated May 2013: The STD code is 01256, unless otherwise stated.

Allotments Basingstoke Gazette Brownies St. Leonard’s Church Breach Lane Chapel Catholic Church Clift Surgery Patient Group Cricket Club (Sherfield) Cricket Club (ST & HW) Evergreens Football (Junior) Football (Seniors) Happy Faces Playgroup Loddon Players Loddon Quilters Loddon Valley Link Lunch Club. NWR Stratfield Saye P. Council Stratfield Turgis P. Meeting Sherfield Parish Council Police - Local beat officer Police - Report an incident Poppies Post Office Rainbows Sher. Community Care Grp Sherfield Fete Sher. Dist. Gardening Club Sherfield Show Short Mat Bowls Toddler Group 0-5s Tree Warden. Village Green Volunteers Whist Drive Women’s Institute Village Hall Caretaker/Bookings Management Committee Fund Raising Committee

Bruce Batting Chris Horton Sue Handasyde-Dick Revd. Bob Politt Geoff Belsham Father Dominic Golding Bryan Jenkins Andy Stevens Paul Baldwin Jean Berntsen Fred Berntsen Gary Spencer Peggy Hutchins Chris Horton Pris O’Rourk (See back pages ) Helen Belsham Gill Fearon Penny Mayo Sheila Campbell (Chair) Karen Ross (Clerk) Mandy Jewell Police Control Room Natalie Larner Pam Luck Doreen Tosswill Bruce Batting Linda Syckelmoore Natalie Larner Norman Stanley Judith Sullivan Jane Jordan Bruce Batting Virgilius Vickers Val Denny Loraine Smith Ivan Gosden Alan Ball

882605 882426 882337 882209 882534 465214 881938 882414 881973 882798 882798 882597 880903 882426 881839 882534 882106 01189 332 379 882351 842662 07554 775617 101 880075 882210 882687 882344 882605 882341 880075 881021 883551 880852 882605 882453 882410 883624 0794 021 2441 883838

Please inform the Editor of changes to the above information.

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HOUSE CLEANING BY MARIA. Reliable & affordable service. Friendly, easy-going & experienced lady who cleans every corner. References. Sunday morning clean after Saturday party also available . Tel 07933 316989. Email [email protected]

LOCAL DRIVING INSTRUCTOR Experienced (20 years) now living in Sherfield Park. Good results, patient with learners, also Pass Plus and refresher lesson. Graham Ling 01256 882584

LOCAL PROFESSIONAL INTERIOR and EXTERIOR DECORATOR First class job guaranteed. Over 30 years experience. No job too small. For a free estimate ring Ian on 01256 882132 or mobile 07876021772

LOCAL EXPERIENCED TAX ADVISER Self Assessment Tax Returns, Arrears, Claims, Payroll, Self Employed, VAT Returns. Initial consultation free. Call: 07920 112533 or email: [email protected]

SEWING, EXPERIENCED AND CONVENIENT. Di is now in D H Watergardens at the Sherfield Garden Centre. Bespoke dressmaking, clothing alterations, repairs, curtains & blinds and soft furnishings. Call Diana on 07796 045944.

P C SUPORT. For technical help with PCs, Macs, Tablets, Internet, Wi-Fi: Repairs, Upgrades and Installation: Call Ian on 07977 143310.

INSIDE/OUT. Garden maintenance, mowing, planting. Alterations, everything considered. Home maintenance, carpentry, tiling, flooring. Tel: 01256 882696 or 077134 70223. email: [email protected].

LET THEM EAT CAKE. Celebration cakes for all occasions, including weddings, christenings and birthdays. Please call Sarah on 01256 882666/ 07906174621 for more information.

FOUND. A necklace was found in Longbridge Close on Friday 28th

June - contact Lucy Marshall, 882599

FOR SALE Total Trainer Pilates Machine Model No TT2500P Hardly Used £90 ONO. Tel 01256- 841893 ALSO Brenda Dygraf Lateral Thigh Trainer Hardly Used £40 ONO. Tel 01256-084189

PERSONALISED BUNTING. Made to order. Ideal gift for babies, birthdays, weddings, Christmas etc. Wide range of fabrics to choose from. Also greetings cards and wedding invitations. Contact Liz on 01256 880092

SMALL ADVERTISEMENTS




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DICKINSONS GARDEN MAINTENANCE. General garden maintenance - mowing the lawn, weeding borders and general planting. Contact Graeme on 07955310046 or [email protected]

LADY DECORATOR. Professional interior painter and decorator. Qualified and fully insured. 20 years experience. No job too small. Phone La-Rain on 01256 760643 or 07939 924347

BLOOMING CUPCAKES offers you the most beautiful Cupcake Bouquets, free local delivery. For more information take a look on www.bloomingcupcakes.co.uk or call 01189 326394

WINDOW CLEANER. Windows cleaned or gutters cleared - one off or regularly. Local, reliable Window Cleaner (testimonials available). For a quote call Pete Owen on 07762 616600 [email protected]

BRUE PROPERTY SERVICES Flat Roofs, Roof Repair, Guttering, Facsia & Soffits, Kitchen Fitting, Flooring from Wooden to Laminate, Carpet and Tiles. Competitive pricing, all work guaranteed - Simon 01189 326394

SINGING AND PIANO LESSONS. All ages, abilities and confidence levels welcome.Liz Scott Hall MA, LTCL (Member ISM and ISME, CRB checked) For further information call 01256 882562, or Mob 07811197761. Email: [email protected]

FUNKY FUN & FORMAL PLANTERS. Wooden planters of all sizes and designs made to order, troughs, towers wall mounted or hanging. Also interior planters. Reclaimed materials used on some designs. tel: 01256 882696 or 077134 70223. email: [email protected]

BLOSSOMING BUTTERCUPS. Baby Massage with the IAIM and Baby Messy Play. Small affordable groups at Sherfield Park. One to one private tuition available for baby massage. Go to www.blossoming-buttercups.co.uk or Christine on 07557133606

FRENCH/GERMAN COACHING – Keen to improve your grades at GCSE or A-level? Experienced local teacher offering effective individual lessons including Coursework and Speaking Assessment preparation. Tel: 01256 882559 Email: [email protected]


http://www.bloomingcupcakes.co.uk




http://www.blossoming-buttercups.co.uk


Loddon Valley Link Management Committee

Editor for the October edition– Brian Archer


Hartley Rep.: Dr. John Williams Tel. 01256 882705

email: [email protected]

Sherfield Park Rep: Eileen Leivesley Tel: 01256 882938


Stratfield Saye Rep: Germano Giugovaz Tel: 01189 332166

Editor: Claire Osborne Tel. 01256 324458


Editor: Simon Boase Tel: 01256 881250


Editor: Brian Archer Tel. 01256 882099


Editor: Jane Abrams Tel. 01256 881188


Advertising enquiries to: Pip Iles Tel. 01256 880559 [email protected]

Deadline for ads. for next edition is 10th of September

Deadline for copy is the 16th of September

Chairman: Dr. Donald Dawson Tel. 01256 882379

[email protected]

Deputy Chairman: Revd. Bob Politt Tel. 01256 882209

[email protected]

Treasurer: Pip Iles Tel.01256 880559

Secretary: Ilene Iles [email protected]

ADVERTISING IN THIS MAGAZINE AND ONLINE Small ads are £5 monthly for a maximum of 30 words, space

permitting. Requests are dealt with in order. Display Ads, please contact the treasurer below.


CHURCH OFFICERS

Rector: Reverend Bob Politt Tel: 01256 882209 Kindly note: the Rector’s day off is Thursday Assistant Priest: Rev. Sammie Armstrong Tel: 01189 816593 Licensed Readers: Richard Elphick Tel. 01256 882860 Dr. John Williams Tel. 01256 882705 ST. LEONARD’S CHURCH, SHERFIELD ON LODDON Churchwardens: Peter Gould Tel. 01256 882538 Richard Elphick Tel. 01256 882860 Treasurer: Dan Farrow Tel. 01256 882680 Organists: Mike Abrams Tel. 01256 881188 Brian Archer Tel. 01256 882099 ST. MARY’S CHURCH, STRATFIELD SAYE Churchwarden: Dr. John Williams Tel. 01256 882705

Treasurer: Charles Atkinson Tel: 01256 882459 Organist Dr. Gill Williams Tel. 01256 882705 ST. MARY’S CHURCH, HARTLEY WESPALL Churchwarden: Pip Iles Tel. 01256 880559 Treasurer: Michael Webster Tel. 01256 882413 Organists: Dr. Gill Williams Tel. 01256 882705 Andrew Doggart Tel: 01256 880092

Please note: the Loddon Valley Link Management Committee cannot be held responsible for the reliability or quality of any goods, work or services in this publication.

A I L E E N M A Y E R S - T H E G L A S S S T U D I O

Just to let you all know I will be opening my studio under the Hampshire Open Studios Scheme. Opening times are 10.00 am to 4.00 pm every day. I'd love to see you so if you'd like to come over and visit the studio and see what I’ve been up to recently, you'll find me at 8 Almond Close, Old Basing, RG24 7DW.

My web site can be found at www.aileenmayers.co.uk

http://www.aileenmayers.co.uk

loddon valley link 201309 - september 2013

Documents

ext st marys stratfield

harvest festival services

fruits of harvest

harvest festival relevant

club page

stratfield turgis issue

agricultural festival

basic life