CHADRA

May I start off by saying “thank you” to Jon Barrance for the excellent job he has done as Editor over the past two years. I only hope I can do as good a job.

Our next major event in the village will be “May Day Madness” on Monday May 5th, in aid of the Village Hall Extension Fund. Let's hope everyone supports it so that the funds can be boosted. Let's also keep our fingers crossed that the weather will have settled down by then, we certainly seem to be getting all sorts at the moment.

I'm sure all the parents in the village were relieved to hear that our “Lolly Pop Lady” is now a permanent feature. The stretch of road outside the school is very tempting to speeding drivers, judging by the number of vehicles stopped by the police in the recent radar traps. It was interesting to note that of all the cars I saw the police stop (they use the layby opposite my home), I didn't recognise any local drivers.

During the last few months, those of you who use the footpath from the shops to Willow Close must have noticed the increasing amount of litter that has accumulated there. Litter is often caused by thoughtlessness. It is so easy just to drop our sweet papers, paper and plastic bags, cigarette packets and empty match boxes and cans on the ground as we walk along the path. A little more thought and a little pride in our environment would prevent this. If a bin is not available, please take the litter home with you.

I understand the same state of affairs exists at the junction of Station Road and Wotton Road. We would never win a Best Kept Village Award.

I hope you haven't forgotten that causing litter is an offence and could cost the offender up to £100.

Have a nice Easter!

Next copy date for the Newsletter is 25th July.

Sue Lapham.

2

At last the school is to be provided with a hall. After ten years of pressure on Gloucestershire and Avon Local Authorities, by Managers and P.T.A., we have had some success. It is not the permanent, purpose-built hall we would have liked. I think we may have waited another ten years for that, and then been very lucky to get it! Instead we have settled for a semi-permanent wooden building, not unattractive outside, and pleasant inside, which we hope to have on site and in use by the Autumn term. This will enable us to deal much more effectively with a number of activities, such as physical education, drama, music and movement, and provide a space to accommodate larger numbers for visiting speakers, theatre companies, concerts and meetings of parents.

School meals have received a lot of publicity recently, mainly because of expected price rises. At this school, at least, they are still very good value and we have recently introduced a choice between two alternatives for main course and sweet, which seems to be a popular idea.

D.A. Malpass,
Headmaster.

Having been asked by a number of people to make the times of Church Services available in this publication for the convenience of parishioners, you will find below such particulars as are available at the time of going to press (planning several months ahead is not always easy). You will always find fuller details both in the Church magazine for the month, and also on the Church notice board which most people pass at some time. I am sure that a question or a 'phone call, if you are in doubt, to any regular attender, would give you the information you need.

NOW, HAVING DONE THIS, PLEASE PUT YOUR NEWSLETTER SOMEWHERE YOU CAN FIND IT!

We had an encouraging and enthusiastic meeting in January for any in the village who were interested in doing something for our young people. Some of the events in the above list are a result of this meeting. In particular, please encourage our young people by supporting what we officially regard as the “kick-off” for this effort; the special visit of the very good group on the morning of the 27th April. DON'T decide it's not for you without coming. DO, please regard yourself as having the power to influence others for the better by your encouraging support. We are living in a confusing world and we need to help and encourage our young people just as we, too, need their help. We need to bridge the artificial age-gap and all see ourselves as human beings; some with more experience than others and others with more youthful energy. We cannot make this real by words – mere talking – but we can by action, by being together, sharing and benefiting from our mutual insights. Come on in and help us – and help yourself at the same time. (Incidentally there will be coffee and orange squash after this event on the 27th April, as after a number of our other morning services. Perhaps I should have written “coffee OR orange squash”, a coffee-squash cocktail was not intended!)

Kenneth G. Grant.

Why not come and join us. Any enquires to Church Secretary, Miss M. Turner, xx The Green, Charfield. Tel: Falfield xxxx.

4Living with Stings and Sweets.

I have learned in whatever state I am, in this to be content. Phil 4:11.

Believers should never be rebellious or discontented, even though all of us experience reversals at one time or another. Because the Lord leads us in His love and wisdom, we can rejoice in every circumstance. We must accept the bad as well as the good recognising that in a world of sin we can never be free from all difficulty and pain. A clipping from a scrap book illustrates that life consists of both pleasant and unpleasant experiences. The article reads, ‘While examining a clover blossom, a little boy was stung on the hand by a bee. He ran screaming to his mother and shouted “I hate them bees!” She did what she could to ease his pain and then gave him some bread and honey. As he eagerly devoured it she said “You really like that, don't you?”, “Yeah, I love it!” he gulped. Then she explained that the same kind of bee that had stung him produces the delicious honey he was eating.’

The lesson is clear; along with the sweets of life we can also expect to feel its stings. But this should not distress the Christian, for like the Apostle Paul, in all of life we can learn “how to be abased” and “how to abound” (Phil 4:12). Instead of complaining and questioning God, we should live in the confidence of Romans 8:28; knowing that “all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose”.

Let our response to adverse and trying circumstances give evidence that we have learned to be content in what ever state we find ourselves.

Lord, make us truly wise we pray
Content through good or ill,
Assured Thou sendest what is best
We rest in Thy sweet will.

Dear Parents,

Our Folk Dance held in February, although not a financial success was thoroughly enjoyed by all and my thanks to all who attended.

Our next open meeting (date yet to be arranged) will be a talk by the Avon Schools Catering Officer. This should prove a rather interesting evening, so please make an effort to attend.

Our next fund raising event is the Annual Spring Fayre being held on Saturday 26th April in the school. If you feel able to make something for the Handicraft Stall and need help with materials etc., please contact me.

Margaret Clarke,
P.T.A. Secretary,
xx Underhill Road.
Tel: Falfield xxx.

5

The Group has had another successful year winning some of the district trophies and completing a full programme.

The Charfield pack now has 24 members and during the year went to the District Camp at Woodhouse Park, entered the District Zoo Quest and enjoyed a visit to the pantomime in Bristol. A sponsored silence was held and the proceeds sent to the Year of the Child. Their best achievement was in winning the district football competition a few weeks ago.

One problem we have with this pack is the lack of leaders, both warranted and helpers, and unless some solution is forthcoming very soon it may be necessary to close the pack until help is available. See separate notice elsewhere in this Newsletter.

The Cromhall pack has also had a very full programme and participated in district events although they were not as successful as the Charfield pack.

The Scouts won the Vale 74 trophy which is the district camping competition and then went on to do very well in the Post and Press which is the County competition. A very successful camp was held in Somerset despite the fact that several tents were damaged during the gales.

We have now formed a Venture Unit and although it is early days, they are getting established and joining in district events.

The Spring Fayre was held in Charfield on 29th March and was a success, raising approximately £120 for Group Funds.

We have another full year ahead of us and several events already arranged to which everyone is welcome.

A.J. Smith,
Group Scout Leader.

We are very glad to report that we have 9 new members who joined us recently. There is still room for more to join and anyone wanting any further information, please contact:

Mr. S. Mussell – x Manor Lane. Falfield xxx. Chairman & Secretary or

Mr. J. Poskett, xx Charfield Green. Tel: Falfield xxxx. Treasurer.

They will be glad to help you.

6

May I thank all of you who have passed on your used postage stamps to me since the last Newsletter. They have duly been re-directed to a lady who has a 6 year old daughter with Leukaemia, who, I am glad to report, is responding to treatment. So continue to allow me to have any used postage stamps, British or Foreign, so that more children may be able to benefit from treatment. Your stamps help to raise money for this very valuable treatment. Long may you continue to pass them on.

Marion Smith,
xxx Manor Lane.

MONDAY MAY 5TH.

Well, the time has nearly come around again for some mad football matches. Let's hope that it will be a bit warmer this year than last, though at least it was dry.

I hope you have all got a good selection of old and strange clothes hidden somewhere in your houses because this year the football teams are to be in fancy dress.

Please put forward a team of eight to compete (one to be a sub), with at least two of them being women and all in fancy dress.

There will be judging of the best dressed team before the competitions begin.

Inform Mrs. Jane Hall, x Berkeley Close, of teams before the day. Entrance fee per team – £1.

There are many other attractions to take place on the day both in the afternoon and in the evening so please read your programme times very carefully.

MAY DAY MADNESS PROGRAMME.

Afternoon.

2.00 pm.	Maypole dancing (Playschool).
2.20 pm.	Judging of fancy dress.
2.30 pm.	Football competitions to start.
3.15 pm.	Interval.
3.30 pm.	Football to continue until final.
4.30 pm.	Teeny Boppers disco (under 9) to continue through football competition. In hall 15p.

Evening.

7.30 pm.	Leyhill Variety Show.
8.30 pm.	Interval (Refreshments available).
8.45 pm.	Friendship Club Variety Show.

7

PLEASE NOTE THAT THERE WILL BE A SILVER COLLECTION MADE DURING THE DAY AND A CHARGE OF 50P FOR ADULTS. CHILDREN FREE IN THE EVENING. ALL PROCEEDS WILL GO TOWARDS THE NEW EXTENSION.

Also available during the afternoon.

Leyhill amusements (swing boats etc).
Pets corner.
Refreshments.
Sweets and cakes sold on the field.
Hot dogs.
Pop Corn.
Creche for under 5's on tennis court.

On February 8th, Charfield NR Pigeon Club organised a social evening at the Charfield Memorial Hall.

As in 1978 we had a wonderful response from local pigeon fanciers and some not so local, one mini bus load coming from the other side of the River Severn.

These fanciers are true sportsmen coming as they did just to support a small Pigeon Club's effort to raise money for charity. This year, £200. will be handed over for medical research, beating our last charity fund raising scheme by over £20.

The evening commenced with a film on the “Migratory and Homing Instincts of Birds”. Some experiments carried out on pigeons in this film seemed to me to cause a great deal of discomfort to them, and in the end it was all rather pointless as very little new information of any consequence came from these experiments. Even so, it was a very absorbing and interesting film. Then followed an “Any Questions” session, with a very distinguished panel of pigeon fanciers, and administrators. The questions put to the panel were many and varied, but all were answered fluently and to the point, satisfying those present.

After a short break for refreshments, 12 Grand Racing Pigeons were auctioned. The fanciers who gave birds for this sale are to be congratulated for putting such wonderful birds at the disposal of Charfield Pigeon Club, let us hope that their kindness will help in some small way to alleviate suffering in others.

Before signing off, I would like to express my appreciation and thanks to all who worked so hard to make this evening so successful. This includes Mr. C.G. Pearce and Mr. P. Beisly, these two gentlemen did all the organising, the ladies who gave the refreshments, H.M. Prison Leyhill for the loan of their projector, the members of the panel, (all travelling many miles), once again the fanciers who gave pigeons, and last but not least, everyone who attended, many paying double the entrance fee. Thank you all.

K.A.W. Parker,
Chairman & P.O.
Charfield NR Pigeon Club,
x Newtown, Charfield.
Tel: Falfield xxxx.

8

TREASURER.

The Memorial Hall Management Committee are looking for a TREASURER to start with the Committee as soon as possible. Although the job is usually on a voluntary basis it has been decided that the successful applicant will receive a remuneration of £100 per annum.

For more details of the job please contact Mr. J. Carpenter, Fal xxxx.

SECRETARY.

The Memorial Hall Management Committee are also looking for a SECRETARY to work with the Committee from May. Again there is a remuneration of £100 per annum for a successful applicant.

For more details please contact Mrs. J. Hall, Falfield xxx.

Glad to report that meetings are now well attended – are we now the “in” club in Charfield?

Try and push your way in each 1st and 3rd Thursday at 10.15 am in the Village Hall.

Glen Ellis,
Secretary,
x New Street.

We have now been running the Discos for a year, and we are pleased to announce that we have realized £711 towards the new extension. We would like to thank all the children for supporting us and contrary to the rumours which are going around the village, we would like to point out that there is NO SMOKING ALLOWED at any of the Young Ones Discos.

We would also like to take this opportunity to say thank you for all the helpers who willingly come along to help every month. We look forward to holding our monthly DISCOS and hope that you will continue to support and enjoy them.

K. Dand – M. Ealey,
Organisers.

I am pleased to give you the result of my appeal for past and new members to come along to our meetings. I think we have now had about 18 new members this last year; if it had not been for this Newsletter, this could not have been possible. Thank you Mr. Editor.

9Well, at our last meeting which was on Wednesday March 26th we were entertained by the popular Thornbury and Alveston Choir, this was followed by our Annual Easter Bonnet Parade, quite a few members spent hours thinking up ideas, some were really masterpieces. We accepted two members of the Choir to act as judges, and after a gig around the Hall, and the usual parade line-up, the lucky winners were picked. First – Mrs. Reeves, Second – Mrs. Papani, Third – Mrs. Fry. After all the hand clapping and laughter, it was now our refreshment period. I must say that it is a pleasing sight every meeting to see our male members serving the teas and collecting up afterwards, in our club everybody is somebody. Thanks chaps, it is good to see this job you do. After that Mrs. Amer and Mr. Orton had the Club Raffle, this again has its humorous side. Then I'm afraid it was 4 o'clock and time to close our very happy afternoon meeting.

Before I close, this letter I must tell you about one of our good friends here in the village. A lady who comes along to every meeting to give help and encouragement, also advice on numerous matters, a service which is greatly appreciated. It was her own idea, because the bus fare to Wotton is so high and our members were unable to obtain a service which they were entitled to. I am referring to The Citizens Advice Bureau Local Organiser Mrs. McGonnigill. We in the Friendship Club appreciate her efforts greatly, so the Committee decided that with the approval of our W.R.V.S. District Organiser, we would enrol Mrs. McGonnigill as our first Honorary Member, and I am very pleased that the offer was accepted. It is true what they say, People Do Care.

Well Cheerio. Looking forward to seeing you all on April 9th.

R. Isherwood,
Chairman.

Since I reported in the last Newsletter, the following members have won the weekly draws.

If you would like your name put onto the waiting list, please let me know.

Sue Lapham, xx Wotton Rd.
Tel: Falfield xxx.

10

[Hand-drawn map of Charfield.]

No. 1. Charfield School to Huntingford Mill, returning via the Damery to Charfield Road.

Approx. distance – 4 miles, takes 1½–2 hours. Can be muddy in places, so boots or similar recommended. A useful map for this walk, and others in the area is Ordnance Survey sheet ST 79 (Dursley) 1:25,000 First Series (obtainable from Wotton Bookshop).

11The walk begins at Charfield School. Take the path by the bus shelter, turning right off the Wotton Road down the side of the school playing fields. At the junction with Poolfield Lane, turn right. Follow the lane past Poolfield Farm on your right to the cattle grid at the entrance to Underwood Farm (1). Cross the cattle grid and follow the drive down to the farm. As you enter the farm yard you will see a stile to your right (2). The path continues beyond the stile across a grass field. (The area around the stile is invariably very muddy). A further stile (3) at the far end takes you into a ploughed field, where the path follows the left hand hedge fairly closely. Halfway across the field the footpath veers to the right to follow the Little Avon River on your right. A short walk then brings you to a footbridge across the weir (4). The path continues alongside the river, and crosses to the road at Huntingford Mill, by way of the newly constructed footbridge (5). This marks the halfway point of the walk; the prudent pedestrian who has timed his journey to coincide with licensing hours can obtain refreshment (both liquid and more substantial) at the Mill Hotel. The author personally recommends the steak – not to mention the desserts!

From here, you can either retrace your steps, or return by the road. To follow the road, turn right at the hotel, under the railway bridge. On your right you will see the edifying spectacle of Charfield Sewage Treatment Works, but the view to your left towards the Cotswolds is more rewarding! At the cross roads turn right, past Huntingford Kennels. On your right after you cross the bridge is Charfield Mills. Now an engineering works, the Mills were originally used for “doeskin type woven work”. The Little Avon was used for providing power for a variety of milling activities since the Domesday Survey. The present complex was built up by Samuel Long and his brother between 1812 and 1829, and at the time employed about 100 people. During the winter months the Little Avon was reputed to supply and estimated 50 horsepower.

The road continues past Charfield House and the old brickworks into New Street, which joins the Wotton Road between the Railway Inn and The Plough, (just in case you are thirsty again!).

A.F. Beer.

“The early afternoon sun, suspended in the azure heavens, beats down onto the parched sands as the camel-borne desert merchants weave a steady path between the undulating dunes. The distant oasis is soon visible on the horizon, shimmering in the haze …” The opening lines to the adventures of Lawrence of Arabia? … or to a Rider Haggard novel, perhaps? – well, these and many other interesting questions will have to remain unanswered as I unveil the mysteries of the 1980 Sports and Gala Day – so diaries out and pens poised!

As an appetiser, the Annual Gala Dance is to be held in the Village Hall on Friday July 4th; in contrast, Sports and Gala Day itself will be concluded in the evening with a Family Disco which will include a squash and crisps bar for the under 18s.

12As you will remember from the last issue of this Newsletter, Sports and Gala Day will be held on SATURDAY JULY 12TH and this year, more than ever before, it offers many and various activities – some to participate in, others just to stand back and enjoy! Along with a slightly modified schedule of sports races and performances of a traditional Punch and Judy Show, there will be demonstrations of skill by the Tockington Archers, together with Westbury Wildlife Park animal corner, crafts displays in the Hall and a full range of static displays to see. In the Grand Draw this year, you could win a Colour T.V., dinner for two at the Park Hotel (Falfield), a day out at Dodington House and Park, or one of many other goodies! Admission is by programme, which you will be able to purchase in advance of the day (watch for details of opportunities to buy nearer the time) for the sum of 20p, or on the day itself for 30p.

You are probably wondering by now how you can help to make the Day a resounding success, apart from making sure that you come along – well, here are a few hints:-

Clubs, associations and groups should have already received information on sideshow requirements … if you haven't already done so, act now to secure your spot on the field and get your ideas into practice! (Queries and information to Jan Hannigan (Falfield xxx) or Miriam Ealey (Falfield xxx) or Beryl Train (Falfield xxxx).

As a local business, either set up a Trade Stand (details from Ian James – Falfield xxx) or, if you wish to advertise in the new-style programme … there are still a few spaces available, but hurry before they are all gone!! (Details from the undersigned).

But the highlight of the afternoon will surely be the appearance as the main attraction, on no less than three separate occasions during the Show, of Mary Chipperfield's famous RACING CAMELS … so start building up your nerves and stamina because you all have the unique opportunity (apart from booking a 14-day sightseeing tour of the Sahara!) to ride these “ships of the desert!” Yes folks, a number of willing volunteers are needed to perform the exhilarating task of guiding these beasts from start to winning line – pit your wits against your friends, neighbours, or get together and challenge other village groups! … what about that for an endless source of stories to tell at home and in the local!!

Rumour hath it that the camel was a horse designed by committee … now's your opportunity to really find out if there is any truth in it!

Tom Magner (P.R.O.),
x, Katherine Close.
Tel: Falfield xxxx.

I would like to thank everyone concerned in making our Jumble Sale such a success in February. We rely on a certain percentage of our income to come from fund raising, the main object is to keep the term 13fees as low as possible so that no family is discouraged from sending their child to playgroup.

Welcome news for parents of future playgroup children is that we no longer have a long waiting list and at present every child is admitted at the beginning of the term following the third birthday. This means that most children will have two years at playgroup.

We encourage parents to visit the playgroup before their child is admitted so that they have some idea how it is run and to help their child settle more easily once their turn comes.

We have 7 sessions a week, every morning – 9.15 am until 12.00 noon, and Monday and Wednesday afternoons from 1.30 pm until 3.15 pm.

Our next big event to boost our funds is on Saturday May 17th when we hold a Balloon Race from the Village Hall Car Park. Tickets will be sold from door to door prior to the day but all the balloons will be launched on 17th May. There will also be open stalls selling produce etc., and weather permitting, it should be an enjoyable day.

The summer term will be upon us soon, but unfortunately we have not been able to find a garden shed to use as a playhouse – please remember playgroup if you hear of one for sale.

Anna Wood,
Playgroup Leader.

WANTED.

Anyone over 18 with some time to spare, particularly on a Tuesday evening between 6.30 pm and 8.00 pm.

LOCATION.

Charfield Village Hall.

REQUIREMENTS.

To assist in running the 1st Woodend Lions Cub Pack on a permanent basis – preferably willing to take a warrant.

REWARD.

The satisfaction of helping youngsters to find self reliance and friendship. Also to keep scouting alive in Charfield.

ALTERNATIVES.

If no help is forthcoming, the Cub Pack will close down in the middle of April. For further information, please contact:

A.J. Smith,
Group Scout Leader,
xxx Manor Lane,
Tel: Falfield xxx.

14

Following the interesting article “A Hopscotch Week” by Nick Barrett of Radio Bristol, which appeared in the last Newsletter, we have pleasure in printing the following article, submitted by “a local vet”.

A WEEK IN THE LIFE OF A VET.

My week may be described as one of contrasts – calving a cow, castrating a colt, replacing a prolapsed womb in a ewe, x-raying a dog with a fractured bone, treating a cat following a road accident and clipping a budgies beak are a few of the problems I may come across in a day's work. The only common factor in my week is that my life is ruled by the telephone, to which one can acquire an acute phone-phobia – especially in the early hours of the morning.

Every day begins with a list of jobs from which each vet makes up a round of calls. I then restock my car with any drugs I have recently used plus any specific drugs or equipment that I may require for the day's work.

All our cars are fitted with a radio-telephone with which we can keep in touch with the surgery and can consequently be diverted to any emergency call which may come in. At present we are in the lambing season and this constant contact with base becomes doubly important. It's a time of year which I enjoy immensely. There is nothing more satisfying than delivering a couple of lambs and watching the ewe nuzzling and licking her newly arrived offspring as they struggle shakily to their feet. It is a sight which really gives me a thrill no matter what time it is or even how cold I am.

This being a mainly dairying area, a sizeable amount of our work is involved with trying to help the farmer produce as much milk as possible and this is largely tied up with general herd health and fertility. A number of farmers have visits on a routine basis – fortnightly or monthly – when pregnancy diagnosis, fertility problem cows, lame cows and other routine farm work is dealt with.

With all livestock disease obviously loses the farmer money and part of our work is involved in preventing certain diseases by regularly visiting every farmers' stock. The two main diseases are Bovine Tuberculosis and Brucellosis, both of which are subjects of National Eradication Policies. This routine testing can be far from enjoyable in the middle of winter for farmers, stockmen, vets and in all probability, the animals themselves. However, one has only to witness the ravages that an abortion storm due to Brucellosis can cause in a dairy herd to see the sense in such testing. It's when you are standing out in the driving snow with your fingers frozen and the last 3 cows to test have just escaped from the shed and careered off across the fields that the wisdom of the Governments policies does seem a little cloudy.

Our practise area falls between the Beaufort and the Berkeley Hunts, the participants of which, by their weekly antics provide us with a certain amount of business in the form of cut and lame horses.

In addition to the farm work we are heavily involved with the domestic pet animals, of these the dog and cat are the main contenders although the range of animals that I have seen in the surgery is amazing – a skunk, a python, a porcupine and a lion cub have all on occasions livened up an evening consulting. We run 15three surgeries at Wotton, Yate and Thornbury and in order to try and maintain some form of continuity, each of the 8 vets in the practise consult at only one of the surgeries. Yate is my patch which I share with two other colleagues in terms of consulting and operating time.

To provide the 24 hour cover necessary in ensuring veterinary attention at all times, we spend every other night and every third weekend on call. Hence my apologies to anyone living in the Underhill Road area whom I may have disturbed as a result of a nocturnal call-out.

A week in the life of a vet can certainly be varied in terms of situations encountered, people met and animals treated, but in general it is a very full and rewarding vocation.

+++++++

If any of our readers have a profession that they think would make interesting reading, we should be very glad to print their story!

Editor.

Our meetings so far this year have been very interesting and informative, and greatly enjoyed by all. Now that the lighter evenings are here again, how about a change from the home. Come along one Thursday (2nd in the month).

So frequently do we hear about loneliness amongst women of all ages both on the radio and in women's magazines, I often wish I could go and collect those lonely women and introduce them to the friendship that can be found in the W.I. Movement.

Our next event is to help with the hall fund raising. On Tuesday the 15th April at 10.00 am we are having a Coffee/Bingo Session. We hope to see a nice crowd, so do come along, meet your friends for an hour and help us to help the hall extension. Bring the children, we hope to amuse them too.

A very happy Easter to you all.

Pat White,
President. W.I.

If when you read this letter, you happen to be ex R.A.F. or W.A.A.F., and a member of the above Association, you need go no further. BUT if you are not, well, why not come and join your local Branch which is “Dursley”. We hold our meetings every third Tuesday in the month at the British Legion Headquarters at Cam. You will be welcome and who knows, perhaps you will meet up with one or more of your old chums; I did when I transferred from the Southampton Branch. This could happen to you, so please give it a serious thought, and if you are interested contact any of the following members. Next meeting Tuesday April 15th at 7.30 pm. Mr. B. Goscombe (President) – Falfield xxx. Mr. L. Green (Secretary) – W-U-E xxxx, Mr. D. Mitchell (Welfare Officer) – Falfield xxxx or myself Mr. R. Isherwood, (Vice Chairman) Falfield xxxx. We'll be pleased to help.

16

As quite a number of readers of this Newsletter will know, I have tried in vain, to keep a class thriving in the village. However, due to a combination of obstacles, i.e. the high cost of hiring the only room at present available (which I hasten to add I do appreciate costs a lot of money to keep heated and in good repair etc), and this room only attainable on a Thursday afternoon, meaning few people can attend. Then of course, there is the problem of young school children going through the usual child ailments and mothers' attendance is thus spasmodic, and the usual coughs and colds about in the winter months affects attendance.

The evening is, of course, the best time for such activities, and I have had many requests for an evening class, especially from people, who due to being out at work part-time and full time are unable to attend a day class. As many people know, I have made enquiries about the hire of the school meal hut, but the lengthy discussions are still in progress about this hut. Such a pity when several residents of Charfield would like to rent it.

However, please does anyone have, or know of someone else who has, a medium to large room I could rent to take such classes? It would need to hold a minimum of say, twelve people. If so, I would very much like to hear from such a person. I would be happy to pay rent and some amount to a favourite charity, if they should so wish.

I would like to conclude by saying that Yoga is not a religion, as a few may, understandably think, and this point came over very well, I am sure, in my talk in the Autumn to the Charfield Young Wives. A very happy evening when I gave a talk on the history of Yoga and then much to everyone's surprise they found themselves taking part in a light-hearted session, to a greater or lesser extent!

Thank you for an excellent and lively magazine.

Dorothea Bartlett,
Wotton-U-Edge xxxx.

Keep Fit sessions, having been temporarily postponed after Christmas, have recommenced once more. Keep Fit is held in the Memorial Hall on Tuesday mornings at 10.30 am – 11.30 am. All are welcome.

An evening Keep Fit has been impossible because the Hall has been fully booked. However, it has been drawn to my attention that the first Thursday evening each month is now available. It is only once per month, but if you feel you would like to attend a Keep Fit session at this time, would you please let me know. If there is enough interest shown, then I will make the necessary arrangements and we can commence on the first Thursday in May.

Pat Light,
Tel: Falfield xxxx.

17

Charfield Parish Council is once more sponsoring a Holiday Playscheme and this year, depending upon the availability of voluntary help, it is planned to extend the age range of children who may participate.

We hear so much these days of a national lack of community spirit and so in our own little way we can demonstrate that a Holiday Playscheme can be a corporate exercise.

The suggested age range will be 5–14 years and the venues will incorporate both the school perimeter and also the Village Hall on days when there are no regular commitments.

Projects will probably be organised according to age groups, but adult helpers with very young children can bring those children along to sessions where they are helping older participants.

Likewise, some older children in the village may be useful as, for want of a better expression, “Monitors”, with one age group or another!

Fuller information will be available in the next edition of the Newsletter, but if you want to volunteer now, for one session or more, do feel free to let me know, or contact Mrs. M. Smith, xxx Manor Lane.

The dates will be: Week commencing Monday 11/8/80, and week commencing Monday 18/8/80.

The next edition of the Newsletter will also include an application (i.e. pre-registration) form for a youngster to attend.

David W. Parker
Chairman,
Playscheme Committee.

At the start of a New Year for our group we would like to thank all our members for their support, and extend an invitation to all newcomers to the village. We would like to see you at our monthly meetings, which are held on the 3rd Thursday of each month in the Village Hall. Below is our programme for the forthcoming year.

We look forward to your continuing support throughout the year.

Lyn Dagger,
Chairman.

The 1980 Tennis Season starts as from April 1st when membership fees will be due. The adult and family membership fees have been increased to £3.00 and £6.00. respectively and the junior fees remain the same at £1.50. These are payable to the Treasurer Brian Cook, xx Durham Road, or to the Secretary Mrs. J. Swallow, xx Station Road. A penalty payment of £1 is to be charged for fees not paid by 30th April.

The A.G.M. is to be held on Wednesday 23rd April, 1980 at 8.30 pm at x Durham Road. Anybody interested in joining the club would be very welcome.

The American Tournament is to be held over the weekend of April 26th. A charge of 25p per head is to be made. This event is run annually and felt by all who have competed to be more of a fun type tournament designed to help members get to know one another. For the keener tennis players, a few matches have been arranged during the season with clubs such as Thornbury, Sports & Social Club at Berkeley etc.

With the money raised by various functions throughout the year, the club have decided to purchase some more netting and posts to mark out the area required for a second court. The actual building of the court is a much larger project requiring somewhere in the region of £4,000. If anyone has any suggestions as to how to achieve this aim, please let us know.

We look forward to seeing much activity on and around the tennis court in 1980.

J. Swallow,
Secretary,
xx Station Rd. Tel: WUE xxxx.

The recent door to door envelope collection realised the gratifying sum of £99.53p.

On behalf of the children helped by the Society, may I thank all who willingly gave their time to deliver and collect envelopes. If anyone would like to support this cause by having a savings box in their home, please 'phone W-U-E xxxx.

E.F. Denslow. H.L.S.

19

Dear Sir,

May I politely request that dog owners prevent their animals from using the play area (and surrounding grass) as a toilet. Many appear to consider that this space is specifically for that purpose. The whole area, far from being the pleasant space it is supposed to be, is in fact fast becoming an unpleasant eyesore and a health hazard to the children it was designed for.

With the advent of the lawn mowers, the prospect of being showered with grass cuttings liberally spiced with dog dirt is to say the least, unpleasant, and on the subject of grass cuttings – is there no way these could be collected as opposed to being left where they fall – usually all over the paths?

Lyn Dagger.

Dear Editor,

I am writing to you on behalf of my son who is a very keen speed-way fan and a collector of metal speedway badges; he has 410 which he wears on his jacket when we go to speedway.

Last year the Evening Post carried a little story of how my son was looking for a Bristol Double Headed speedway badge from bygone days and we got one, but what he didn't know at the time was that there were variations of this badge, i.e. silver coloured and gold-pin fastening and button hole.

I saw the article in the Evening Post re your Newsletter so I was wondering if you would be so kind as to consider putting a little S.O.S. in, to assist my son in his effort to get these badges, as possibly someone in your area may have them tucked away and no longer need them.

Yours faithfully,

Mr. B. Honour,
xx Wyndham Cres. Broomhill,
Bristol BS4 4SX.

During the past year we have opened each Tuesday and Thursday from 10.00 am to 1.00 pm in Berkeley House, Long Street, Wotton-U-Edge, and the number of enquiries from Charfield area alone is now approaching 200. We have been able to give advice on a wide variety of problems, ranging from housing, rent and rates, electricity to family and matrimonial difficulties. We have also advised on legal matters, divorce, separation etc., – up to employing a solicitor – and many people have been unaware that they were eligible for legal advice and even legal aid.

Many old age pensioners have been unsure how to calculate their eligibility for supplementary benefit, and we have been successful in 20finalising quite a number of supplementary benefit applications. We try to make people aware that they may be due to certain benefits, and we can help to clarify the situation and give advice from our up-to-date files on their legal rights.

The Citizens Advice Bureau organiser was delighted to be made an honorary member of the village Friendship Club and will continue to visit each meeting to advise the old age pensioners and give help with any problem.

Another suggested service to the local community was the founding of LINK – an exchange of skills where a stamp would be awarded for each hours work done, entitling the holder to a comparable period of skill performed by another member. No payment would be involved. This scheme is growing in popularity throughout the country as it cuts out the high service charges which tradesmen have to make and which old age pensioners especially cannot afford. Discussions are in hand to co-ordinate the scheme with the Friendship Club and other organisations. Anyone interested in helping to run the scheme should contact Citizens Advice Bureau Berkeley House, Long Street, Wotton-Under-Edge, on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 10.00 am and 1.00 pm, telephone No. W-U-E xxxx.

The Citizens Advice Bureau is a free, confidential and impartial service run for the benefit of the community and we shall be very happy to give help or advice on any subject.

Share your problem with us – WE CAN HELP!

Jean K. McGonnigill,
Organiser.

Within Charfield there are several people who are willing to answer queries concerning welfare rights (e.g. pensions, invalidity benefits, aids for the handicapped or elderly), either by putting you in contact with the appropriate agency or seeking information for you. Also, we can usually provide practical aid with decorating, gardening, transport or cooked midday meals when the need arises. If you have any questions you can contact:

Despite the appalling weather on Wednesday evening, the 26th March, seventeen members of the public attended this Annual Parish Meeting. This meeting is convened by the Parish Council, although not obliged by law to do so, to give the public the opportunity to express their opinions on Parish matters, make suggestions and give constructive criticism. We should therefore make the effort to support these meetings.

21I found this year's meeting to be interesting and informative and I hope those who attended thought so too.

After the Chairman's Annual Report of the work of the Parish Council and the presentation of the annual accounts, reports from six village Societies or Clubs were presented. Comparing this list with the list of grants given by the Council to some clubs, I noticed that three Clubs receiving grants did not bother to present a report of their years activities. I consider that the least these can do is show their appreciation by sending in a report. It is only once a year.

The Chairman said that the public participation sessions at the end of each Parish Council meeting had proven to be successful and hoped that they would be continued.

The formal business completed, Mr. Parker opened the discussion of Youth and what additional facilities could be provided to supplement those already in existence.

Mr. Parker presented a very well prepared precis of the provision in the proposed Youth Bill at present before Parliament and a resume of the present facilities and problems of youth today.

A representative of the Youth Club was present, but unfortunately, but predictably, the Younger Generation were not present to help with the discussion.

Various items were discussed without any definite conclusions being reached. The most practical suggestion to emerge was that a building separate from the Village Hall would be an asset to cater solely for the Youth. This could accommodate the Cubs, Brownies, Guides, Scouts, Youth Club and a Senior Youth Club. This matter would be thoroughly investigated.

The lack of transport to outside facilities such as the Sports Complexes at Yate and Thornbury were mentioned. This lack of transport is now the subject of a special Sub-Committee set up by the Parish Council.

All this of course, is a matter for organised debate that must be continued with enthusiasm.

At the end of the meeting Mr. C. Goscombe, who resigned last year as Chairman of the Parish Council, thanked the new Chairman Mrs. Sue Barrance for her chairing of the meeting. This was indeed a splendid gesture from one who had been chairman for so long.

Now then, you younger generation of the village, if you do not tell the “dreaded” grown ups what you want (especially those of you who feel that your needs are not provided for), how can any help be given, that is of course if you want it? Why not do something useful and constructive. Write a letter to the Editor of the Charfield Newsletter setting out your ideas. These will be given to the Parish Council with the assurance that they will all be considered. The letters giving the best ideas will be published in the Newsletter and the one that is judged to have the most practical or original ideas will receive a £5 token. So let those letters roll in.

S.C. Gunning,
Chairman,
Residents Association.

22

Other Useful Information

If any of the above information is incorrect, please contact Mrs. M. Smith, xxx Manor Lane, Fal xxx and we will rectify it for our next issue.

Charfield Newsletter is produced by the Charfield & District Residents Association (CHADRA).

Transcriber Notes

This issue was produced on 22 sides of A4 paper.

Personal phone numbers and addresses have been redacted.

Minor typographical corrections and presentational changes have been made without comment.

Digitization by Brendan O'Connor.

Last update: 2016-12-01.