CHADRA

For all the good things of Yuletide and the mild weather (albeit a little damp at times!) let us be thankful.

Let each one of us resolve to live and act in such a way that the area in which we live will be a better place.

We are all facing problems which have to be overcome. The Hall Management Committee in making ends meet needs greater support from us all. The Youth Club requires more members, new ideas and new adult committee members to replace those who are retiring.

All our Clubs and Societies would like more members to support the faithful who keep their functions alive! So, residents of Charfield, what are we all going to do about it. Opportunities for alternative activities and entertainment are available to replace some T.V. programmes, and no doubt more could be provided so in 1983 let us try to make our Village a more lively community.

As stated elsewhere in this Newsletter this year is Election year for Parish and District Councils, and it is very important that all of us use our vote, because the decisions and actions taken by the Councils effect all our lives.

The District Councils were re-organised in 1974 and made much larger to cover a wider area; therefore, they cannot be expected to know every detail about a Parish, and so Parish Councils have become more important to the local communities which they serve.

One of the functions of the Parish Council is to be “the eyes and ears” of the District Council, keeping them informed of local needs, complaints and opinions.

The reports by our efficient Parish Clerk in this Newsletter and in the local press keep us informed of important happenings. It would also be helpful if residents attended Parish Council Meetings, held on the second Tuesday in each month at 7.30 p.m. at Charfield Primary School, and listened to the deliberations of members, and voiced opinions during the time allocated for public participation.

Happy New Year to all.

S.C. Gunning.

PLEASE NOTE THE LAST DATE FOR ARTICLES ETC. FOR THE APRIL NEWSLETTER IS THURSDAY MARCH 31st.
It would be appreciated if sent before this date to – R. Gunning, xx Manor Lane.

2

Eighteen months ago I volunteered to take over the organisation of the transport of this scheme. The drivers are mostly “mums” with children of pre-school or school age. With the aid of several retired people, we have been able to get everybody to their appointments at hospitals, doctors, dentists, etc. In addition, requests for transport to visit patients in hospital have been arranged.

We have lost several drivers – 3 have just added to their families. Others are now working, but are still willing to help during school holidays when possible.

Between us we made approximately 150 journeys for the year March 1981–1982, and if we continue as we have done for the last nine months, we will again reach that figure by the end of next March.

Thank you drivers for your co-operation in making this scheme run smoothly. I'm sure that I 'phone at inconvenient times occasionally, but you always have time to listen patiently to my requests. It makes this job so much easier working with pleasant people.

Mrs. M. Blower.

The Management Committee would like to inform the Villagers that we are faced with a major item of expenditure this year – that is the re-felting of the flat roof area above the kitchen and toilets. To meet the cost of this all Clubs and individuals who have in the past raised money for the Extension Fund are being asked if we can use a small amount of the money to help with the final bill.

We feel there is not much point in raising money for an extension if the main hall is to be allowed to fall down. We feel sure all people who have willingly raised money will not object to a small portion being used to keep the fabric of the main hall in good order. If, however, anybody has any objections or suggestions please do not hesitate to contact me. Also if anyone young or old, would like to help doing odd jobs in and around the Hall please contact me.

A very happy 1983 to you all.

Secretary – Mrs. M. Clarke.

The repair to the flat roof of the Village Hall is a very urgent matter, and it is essential to do the work quickly. I understand the cost is in the region of £2,000, and is, therefore, a major item.

The Parish Council have voted a £500 grant towards this cost.

Editor.

3

Dear Mums,
Happy New Year. I trust that there are a fair amount or washers being handed about for the start of 1983.

To those who came to the Meeting in Nov. or contacted me to say they could not attend, but were happy with everything, thank you! Several mums have since 'phoned me to say they will be leaving the Circle, I will be round to collect your washers shortly.

I will be typing a new list, but am waiting for a few more Wotton 'phone numbers to change.

If there are any other mums who really feel that they have no further use of the Circle, please let me know. We seem to be having a small problem regarding the distribution of washers!

The invitation still stands – if there are any new mums in the Village who would like to join the Circle, please do 'phone me – even if only to find out how the system works. Anyway, until we all get together again – best wishes.

'Phone Fal. 26xxxx – Marilyn Smith.

A new year is always a good time to reflect on the past and look at both the Present and future.

We can reflect on a year of well supported events designed to raise finance for a Pavilion project. We can reflect, and in so doing, congratulate and thank the children and teachers who worked so hard to produce such excellent performances at the Christmas Plays and Carol Services.

At present we are assessing the performance of the Sponsored Stamp Collection which benefits both “Leukaemia Research Projects” and School P.T.A. funds.

We can look forward shortly to taking delivery of the School's first Micro Computer; we can look forward to our first Social Evening – a Barn Dance on 4th Feb. (make a note, tickets are available). Perhaps most important you can look forward to continued efforts by the P.T.A. to raise funds to supplement Local Authority spending, to ensure that our children are afforded the best possible opportunities.

Chairman – J. M. Spencer.

Remember!

Remember the flowers – and not the weeds.
Remember Life's best – friendly words kindly deeds …
Remember the pleasure,
Forget the pain – then only good memories will remain.

4

The Council is pleased to note that the “red tape” wheels are in motion regarding the provision of parking restrictions at the Post Office and The Tavern. The appropriate notices have been placed at the sites and the restrictions will come into force in the near future.

1983 is election year for the Parish Council, 5th May; for this reason residents may wish to take more interest in the scope and activities of the Parish Council. Council meetings are open to the public who are invited to participate, comment, or bring to the attention of the Council points of concern. Towards the end of March the Annual Parish Meeting is held – the date of this meeting will be posted on the notice boards.

One of the subjects at present being discussed by the Council in a very general way is the County Boundary Review, due to take place during 1984. You may be aware of the lobby in the south of Avon to return to Somerset. Charfield Parish Council is gathering information from Stroud District Council and other Authorities in an attempt to make comparisons between the services at present received with those which are provided within the County of Glos., i.e. It is understood that if Charfield was in Gloucestershire we would lose our Village policeman, and would come under Wotton-under-Edge, for police services. The Parish Council would like to hear from residents on this subject.

The County of Avon & Bristol Omnibus Co., are at present carrying out a service review, and if all the proposals are adopted, Charfield will benefit by a greater range of services. The present Charfield–Yate–Bristol 'bus will be altered to Yate only with connections to Bristol, but an express service from Stroud–Wotton will stop in Charfield and then use the motorway to Bristol. In addition a present Bristol–Thornbury–Falfield 'bus will be extended through Charfield to Wotton.

The Council was recently informed of a private 'bus service operated by Westward Travel Co., from Wotton to Charfield–Filton; this stops at the Church at 6.40 a.m. The Company did try a later 'bus as well, but insufficient support was found. Maybe the situation has since changed and anyone interested in regular travel to Filton, (B.A.C. Rolls Royce, or the Technical College) should contact any member of the Parish Council, or The Clerk, who will pass the information to Westward Travel.

The Parish Council has been partly successful in improving the pedestrian safety on the footpath (No. 8) which crosses the railway line behind the Bryant Homes housing development. British Rail have agreed to raise the level of the chippings and use coloured stone to denote the main lines. British Rail will not, however, provide an audible warning signal at the crossing, on cost grounds. The Council urges everyone to take great care at this crossing, and in particular to be aware that the noise of one train passing masks the noise of the arrival of a train from the other direction.

Yet again it is necessary to ask residents to give a little more thought with regard to dumping rubbish on the land between Underhill Road and Manor Lane. Garden 5waste will rot down but building rubble and other unwanted rubbish will not. It causes an eyesore and a nuisance to those living nearby and a danger to children.

Holiday Play Scheme 1983.

The Holiday Play-Schemes over the past eight or so years have been organised and financed by the Parish Council using School premises as the most appropriate venue. The Schemes have been well supported by children participating, but in recent years volunteer organisers and helpers have been thin on the ground.

The Parish Council has agreed to finance a Scheme for 1983 and arrange the venue, but would like volunteers to come forward to make the arrangements and supervise the activities. Assistance and support will of course be given by the Parish Council.

Please anyone interested contact the Clerk.

Clerk to the Council – Mrs. J. Hughes.

The Residents Committee want a new design for the title of this Newsletter to replace the existing heading, which is unsatisfactorily produced by hand for each issue. The motif on the present heading roughly indicates the Parish Boundaries and could be incorporated in a new design.

It seems appropriate to seek fresh ideas and it has been decided to hold a Competition, open to all ages, with a £10 prize for the one chosen by the Committee. The conditions are as follows:-

1. The size of the sheet is A4, and the title can be redesigned as at present leaving the rest of the page for the Editorial, or it could fill the whole page.
2. The design must include the words "Charfield Newsletter".
3. Design must be delivered to the Editor, at xx Manor Lane, by MON. FEB. 21st for consideration by the Committee at the end of February.

The winning design will be used on the April issue of the Newsletter.

Some complaints have been received about this matter which is not an easy problem to deal with. Although there is a case against youths using the footpaths, especially as race tracks, particularly those footpaths around the Play Area and Shops, it is essential that small children should be allowed on footpaths for safety's sake. So what can be done! Should the Parish Council be asked to consider making a Bye-law prohibiting cyclist over a certain age on the footpaths, and putting up notices to this effect.

Your comments to the Secretary – Mr. G. Blower, or the Editor please.

6

In accordance with Section 43, Local Government Act 1972 there will be LOCAL ELECTIONS for Parish Councils and District Councils on THURSDAY MAY 5th 1983, this being the first Thursday in May.

Anyone who is an elector is eligible for nomination and nomination papers ought to be submitted to the Northavon returning Officer at least three weeks before Polling Day. Charfield is eligible for nine Parish Councillors, and so obviously if there are not more than nine nominations, no Poll is necessary, but I hope there will be one.

The main provisions of the role of Parish Councils are outlined in the Local Government Act 1972, under Sections 9 to 17, and also Schedule 12, Part 2, Sections 7 to 22.

If you have never had contact with Parish Councils before, you may like to know that Parish Councils were first set up under the Local Government Act 1894, as a revival of the Parish Vestry which had helped local Magistrates govern rural England for centuries.

Where Parishes have a complete set of Minute books from the very first meeting their reading provides a useful history of the vicinity.

In the 1950's, the word “participation” was first used in it's modern public sense, yet the late Victorian liberals had applied one aspect of it in public life when they created the Local Government system. It was the Parish Council clauses of the 1893 Local Government Bill which caused controversy and held up the progress of the then new legislation for nearly a year.

The late Victorian Tories succeeded in “pulling most of the Bill's teeth”.

The Village Parliament, capable of operating a sort of social contract for small communities of the people, was scotched by the twin weapons for financial restriction and “ultra vires”.

The resulting statutorily induced coma was a social disaster and as wars and socialism widened the functions and increased the staffs of the “upper tier” Authorities, they simultaneously destroyed the old Rural Leadership, the Manor House, the School and the Rectory.

Save to meet warlike demands, Local Government activity was curtailed, in a relative sense more at Parish, than at any other level. There never had been much Parish Council literature, and what there was, was out of date. By 1945 many Parish Councils did not know, and could not without great difficulty find out what they could or should do.

As a general picture, the landscape was very dark, but there were “flashes of light”. There were Councils which somehow, and consistently, kept a torch burning. There were some good Clerks and some informed members and since it was felt that the artificially stimulated revival during World War 2, could not be maintained without effective Rural Leadership, it was resolved to “build” on the “hard core” of existing Parish Councils.

It was bound 7to be a gamble, for no one knew how many there were. All the same, it was a start.

By the 1960's new thought was being given to the whole structure of Local Governments which had been unchanged since 1894. Under the Chairmanship of the Rt. Hon. Lord Redcliffe-Maud, a Royal Commission examined the whole structure and after 3 years, presented it's Report to Parliament in June 1969. The then Labour Government published a White Paper and the later Conservative Government did likewise. Both made amendments to the Redcliffe-Maud Report, but the consequent 1972 Local Government Act rather than repeal the structure of Parish Councils, has indeed included them. In Wales they are called “Community Councils”.

1974 was a “watershed” – nothing would ever be the same again. The English Parish Councils and the Welsh Community Councils were more powerful, better endowed and better respected. Constitutional oversight was transferred from the County to the District Councils, but only in the larger Parish Councils was there any political integration into the total movement of National Politics.

Today's Parish Councils continue then to have a role to play and topics vary widely. In Charfield the Agenda for the monthly Council Meeting is posted on each of the two Village notice boards, and the public is allowed to attend such meetings, but only during the “ten minute” public participation item on the Agenda can anyone, other than a Councillor, speak.

In conclusion then, what can be our thoughts in the 1980's.

For many people the Countryside was, and would increasingly become, a valuable and attractive refuge, for those financially endowed, but by the same token one notices an increasing problem for those already living in rural surrounds who are poor, or becoming poor in real terms, and becoming increasingly immobile as 'bus fares rise and services become less frequent.

Again, in the last 15 years, the continued spread of the car, concentration of shopping and other services at specific key point has also caused some, the low paid, and the retired to become relatively deprived of local services.

Parish Councils need to “stand up” and “speak out” over local issues and whilst some on a higher tier still want to look upon Parish Councils as “small fry”, let us not forget the story of David and Goliath. Your community then is the concern of every-one on the Electoral Roll. Even if you do not wish to be nominated as a Parish Councillor, let us try to ensure we can have an interesting Election, and do come along to record your vote.

Revd. David Parker. Chairman, Charfield Parish Council.

Charfield Parish Councillors – 1979–1983:-

Mr. R. Baker	Mr. C. Goscombe
Mrs. S. Barrance	Mr. S.C. Gunning
Mrs. A. Beer	Mr J. Hatt
Mrs. M. Burden	Revd. D. Parker
	Mr. J. Poskett.

Mrs. J. Hughes – Clerk to the Council.

8

The Poppy Day collections were considerably higher than last year, and Mrs. B. Mussell would like to thank her Collectors and all who contributed towards the total of £163; this was from individual collections:-

Mrs. B. Britton	£20.26
Mrs. M. Burden	5.98
Mrs. D. Fry	14.85
Mrs. P. Hawkins	8.56
Mrs. E. Marklove	6.09
Miss D. Mussell	7.63
Mrs. S. Nixon	11.02
Mrs. J. Rees	6.39
Mrs. K. Smith	5.95
Mrs. M. Smith	18.75
Charfield Primary School	13.86
Huntingford Mill Hotel	8.99
The Post Office	4.76

plus the collections at the Morning Service at St. John's Church – £19.91, and the combined Service at the Congregational Church of £10.

The Dance held on Nov. 5th made a profit of £77. This amount was also given to the Earl Haig Fund.

S. Mussell.

The 4 wreaths laid on the War Memorial on Remembrance Sunday were placed by representatives of British Legion, Parish Council, Women's Institute, and Residence Assoc.

I must start this report with an apology to some of the residents of Charfield. In October we had a very successful Autumn Fair, but due to a mix-up some parts of the village did not have a collection – to those people I apologise and promise this will not happen again!

Two boys in the Scout troop have just been awarded their Chief Scout Award badges and were presented with a certificate by the County Commissioner at a reception at Woodhouse Park.

One boy will be going to the World Jamboree in Canada later this year and another to an Adventure Course in Scotland in April.

The Venture Unit has decided to become a mixed Unit and is combining with the local Rangers, this is open to young people of both sexes between the ages of 16 and 20. Anyone who is interested in joining should contact me first.

We are still looking for people to help run the Sections and also to help run the group via the Executive Committee. Anyone interested please contact me.

One of our Cub Leaders – Joan Clothier – is leaving us to take up the duties of District Secretary, although she will still be helping us from time to time. We wish her well. Mrs. Clothier's place is being taken by Mrs. Audrey Booth, who used to run the pack a few years ago. We are organising several fund raising and social events during the year including a Group Camp in July. I will give more details in the next Newsletter.

Group Scout Leader – A.J. Smith.

9

Some of the readers of the Newsletter will be aware that our Parish Magazine is a joint effort, shared by a number of other neighbouring Parishes. Unfortunately, like many businesses these days, towards the end of 1982 the Company met problems which meant that no edition for November arrived, that the December edition appeared some weeks late, the January one will be slightly late (we are slowly getting right!). By March it should be on time again. Meanwhile I would like to apologise for this inconvenience beyond our control, to those who have been inconvenienced, and just to be on the safe side, to list below the Sunday Services for the coming quarter, with an additional reminder that a monthly list of services can always be seen (almost without stopping, so bold is the type!) on the notice board outside the Church.

Services, services, services! What's the point of them. Fairly obvious, to most people they don't have any point, or very little; otherwise the Church would not be big enough to hold them, whereas, I can assure you, except for the very special occasions, you don't have to come early in order to get a seat! I imagine there is no one staying away for that reason. I expect that there are many who think we can get along very well without them, and that their presence would have little or no bearing upon the proceedings. Certainly this is the impression given when one reads the accounts, here or in the local paper, of various Village Organisations. When Annual Meetings are held, or Special Meeting, I have read complaints that little more than the Committee Members of the Organisation concerned turn up. I know how the Organisers feel, but I take no comfort for myself from it; only sympathetic understanding. But isn't this the same story 10the same situation, the feeling that ‘they’ can get on very well without me and it is not going to make any difference one way or the other whether I am there or not.

That attitude is, of course, the death of democracy. In it's worst form it can be a handing over to the most violent extremists (I am not suggesting that it amounts to that in Charfield, but it is the attitude that leads to that in the larger world – remember Nazi Germany). But let anything BE SEEN to threaten the local community (like the turning of part of Charfield into an immense rubbish dump and action is roused – and quite rightly too. So do we only ‘jump to attention’ when something seems to threaten our lives directly – this is said to be the typical English attitude. It does seem rather like it. I have started a topic but, I think, said enough about it for the moment. I haven't said anything about ‘services’. I'll leave that until next time. Don't miss next quarters unexciting instalment!

Kenneth G. Grant. Rector.

We feel sure Revd. Grant would appreciate your comments to be included in the next edition in April.

R & C. G.

Sundays	11.00 a.m.	Family Service
Nov.–Feb.	3.00 p.m.	Afternoon Worship
March–Oct.	6.00 p.m.	Evening Worship.
Tuesdays (fortnightly)	3.00 p.m.	Bright Hour. for anyone who would like to join us.

Good Friday	April 1st.	Service	2.30 p.m.
Easter Sunday.	April 3rd	Family Service	11.00 a.m.
		Even. Worship	6.00 p.m.

Why not come and join us. Enquiries to – Miss. M. Turner, xx The Green, Charfield. 'Phone Fal. 26xxxx.

The Tender Heart.

“Jesus moved with compassion” Mark 1. verse 4.

We read in the Scriptures that Noah was “moved with fear” the patriarchs were “moved with envy”. The Disciples were moved with “indignation“, but Jesus was “moved with compassion”.

We too, are moved by many things, but unhappily, we are not moved as the Master was, for He was moved by a “love so amazing so divine”. It is intensely comforting to know that Christ still has a heart which can be moved by the sorrow and suffering of mankind. If you are in trouble just now, let me remind you that His compassion fails not …

M. Turner.

11

The Association's Annual General Meeting was held the 10th Nov. at the National School Foundation Hall, but in spite of considerable publicity the attendance did not reach the figure of 15 persons required for a quorum so it was necessary to suspend standing orders to enable business to proceed.

It was very gratifying that the Treasurer was able to report that with the aid of grants from the Avon Community Council and the Parish Council, the proceeds from the Jumble Sale, and not forgetting the prize for our Stall on Sports Day, the finances of the Association are now in a satisfactory state and should adequately cover any foreseeable contingencies, including some improvements in the Newsletter. Details of a competition to produce ideas for a design for the front page appear elsewhere in this issue.

The matters covered by the Report of the retiring Chairman have largely been covered in previous Newsletters but the following items may be worthy of mention:-

There have been no further developments on the Tortworth Copse since the planning permission was granted. It is understood that at the moment the matter is held up at the licensing stage. However, if the licence is granted it will be necessary to carefully monitor the operations to ensure compliance with the conditions.

The problem of the interruption of oil supplies during the cold weather last winter was taken up with Shell and their local Inspector undertook to “conduct a survey during the routine maintenance to establish whether the period between filter changes should be reduced”.

The Committee had considered the alterations proposed for ambulance cover in the area and had decided in view of the limited cover provided from Falfield in the past there was little in the proposals to which objection could be taken.

Thanks were expressed to all members of the Committee and others concerned with the production and distribution of the Newsletter, and in particular the Press Officer, Mr. C. Gunning, the collator and typist Mrs. R. Gunning, Mr. J. Butler who does the duplicating, and Mrs. M. Smith and her team of distributors. The resignations of the Secretary Mrs. Saunderson and Mrs. J. Barnett were accepted with regret and thanks for past services.

Officers and committee members for the ensuing year were elected as follows:-

Chairman	Mrs. J. Clothier
Vice-Chairman	Mr. K. Smith.
Secretary	Mr. G. Blower.
Treasurer	Mr. J. Barrance.
Press Officer	Mr. C. Gunning.

Committee:- Mrs. J. Crowfoot, Mrs. M. Smith, Mrs. M. Jones, Mr. M. Cheskin.

Newsletter –	Collator & Typist	Mrs. R. Gunning.
	Duplicating	Mr. J. Buttler.

We welcome Mr. Mike Cheskin to the team, however the Constitution provides for several more Committee members so anyone willing to serve will be very welcome.

12The Parish Council Chairman Revd. David Parker and Mr. C. Gunning raised the question as to whether an attempt should be made to have Charfield returned to Gloucestershire for Local Government purposes. There appears to be a number of persuasive arguments suggesting that Charfield for social and amenity purposes is, and should be, centred on Wotton-under-Edge. It must also be admitted that like the man who was to be hanged the next day the rocketing rate demands in Avon serve to concentrate the mind wonderfully. However, it was agreed that an extended examination of the pros and cons would be necessary before any decision could be made, and the Parish Council will proceed with this at present on a purely exploratory basis. If in the end such an attempt is made it will be necessary to ascertain the opinions of residents in which operation we would hope CHADRA could be of some help.

Complaints were made regarding cycling on footpaths in the Village (full size cycles of course). It should be noted that this is an offence, and the Police may take action if they come upon such activities, so be WARNED!

I understand that this year is to be Beautiful Britain year and although it is doubtful whether Charfield could ever be described as beautiful we could at least keep it tidy. To this end an attempt is being made to keep the path and verges from the shops to the play area free of litter. I am sure we would all be very grateful if sweet papers could be disposed of in the baskets outside the shops.

Hon. Sec. – Mr. G. Blower.

Happy New Year to everyone! I've just realised that it is a year since I last wrote, so I thought you might like to know how things are in Penzance.

By the time you read this, all the decorations will be down and packed away for another year. Children's toys seem to get bigger and more expensive every year! It would seem that nearly every boy in Penzance (except our two) got a B.M.X. bike. The town and prom. is alive with them. Are they all the rage in Charfield? If it wasn't bikes, it was computer games. Where have all the cheap simple toys gone to that we used to get!

Penzance certainly looked attractive during the Christmas period. All the lights across the streets, and the various “Silver Bands” playing in the main Street, all making a lovely atmosphere. Also the Round Table came around to the houses with a musical sleigh, complete with Santa to collect for the needy. That reminded me of the Play-group Christmas Wagon! This year Mousehole was back to normal, thank goodness. On the anniversary of the lifeboat disaster they switched off all their Christmas lights except the cross and the angel which was a nice touch, but otherwise any grief was private.

We met a few people from Gloucester and Cromhall during the Summer, and I even had someone to do some work in the house for me who told me he wasn't from Cornwall, but from a Village in Gloucestershire. When I asked which one, he said “Wotton under Edge”. I told him we were from near there, and he said “It wasn't exactly 13Wotton, but Charfield”. He used to live in Durham Rd. and knew the Hannigans! He moved from Charfield in 1976 a month before we moved in. His name was Martin and his wife's was Jacky. What a small world! We also met someone else who ended up producing a photograph of mother-in-law taken in Churchdown.

We had quite an eventful Summer. The Q.E.II came right into Mounts Bay on her way back from the Falklands to airlift supplies and uniforms to the troops. Feelings over the Falklands conflict ran high down here because so many local lads were out there.

Another interesting thing happened, Penzance harbour was dammed and drained so that a new hydraulic gate could be fitted. The harbour was build in approx. 1866 and had not been dredged since. Unfortunately the mud was far too thick and smelly for anyone to venture down into it to investigate. Eventually a J.C.B. was lowered into the harbour to clear all the mud and muck and it was all carted off by lorry, where to I just don't know.

Well that seems about it. Life goes on much the same. It is still a very pleasant part of the world to live in – if you like sea air! 'Bye for now.

Sue Lapham.

A few Newsletter readers may have had the leisure to look at the display left in the Church since the Centenary celebrations last year. For the majority who probably have not, the following is a small but, I hope, interesting extract.

Once upon a time, Charfield had it's own poor house. A very large part of Parish administration was concerned with the maintenance and control of the poor. Charfield has two volumes of Overseers Accounts, and a miscellany of loose bills and documents dating from about the early eighteenth Century to 1836.

In earlier times the poor were maintained by the Church and by private almsgiving but with the suppression of the Monasteries and the growth in population, the relief was no longer adequate. The Poor Law of 1601 (almost the end of Elizabeth I's reign) based a new system on the Parish. The Church Wardens and two or more substantial householders were to be appointed each year as Overseers of the Poor with duties of maintaining the poor and setting them to work. The funds to do so were provided by the poor rate levied on every inhabitant. The Overseers worked closely with the Constable (who was by this time often a Parish rather than a Manorial Officer) to control vagrants and deal with problems of settlement.

Parish accounts for poor relief end in 1836 with the creation of the Poor Law Unions which were controlled by the Poor Law Commissioners in London. Charfield was made part of the Thornbury Union.

Among the documents in the Parish Chest was the following memorandum – (spelling, punctuation and capitals, as original) –

“Memorandum that the within named house was in the 14Parish's Possession and repaired it for many years as do appear by the old Parish Book but being got so far out of Repair could not properly be Repaired any longer Wm. Pullin and Wm. Cullimore being Church Wardens at the time beigh thought it proper to Rebuild the same for the use of the parish called a parish meeting upon the same, which was Consented to be don by some few that is

Wm. Pullin, Wm. Cullimore Churchwardens.
John Hopkins Overseers
James Cullimore, Wm. Witchell principall Inhabitants.

But when a vestry meeting being called to accompt for the same there was an objection made by many of the Inhabitants thinking it cost to much would not be accomptable so left it upon the aforesaid Churchwardens Hands which is all their Remedy for their pains its their shame be it Spoken”.

Accompanying the memorandum was a detailed set of accounts, “1784 The disbursements of Wm. Pullin and Wm. Cullimore Churchwardens of the Parish of Charfield in Rebuilding the poor house in Charfield green late Arthurs”. It is interesting to note that the poor house was built at Charfield Green which was probably the most populous part of the Village long before the railway was built. The memorandum suggests that the overseers were let down by the Parish and had to meet the cost of the work out of their own pockets.

The accounts give some bare idea of the nature of the building. There is a large quantity of stone but also some brick (perhaps for the chimney). There are bills for the thatcher and his materials, the mason and his “featuring stone”, carpenters and timber including 61 poles for the rafters, two casements and for timber to go “over the oven!” Wm. Fowler was paid for wheeling in earth for the floor.

It would be nice to know the exact location of the poor house and whether any part of it has been incorporated into an existing building. No names arising from such a past use survive in Charfield, whereas in Avening Green the name of the Noddy House remains as evidence of their poor house, since put to other uses. I have not as yet found any other evidence relating to the Charfield poor house, either before or after 1836. It is possible that deeds still survive which might provide more information about it's location and what happened to it when it was no longer required as a poor house.

Mrs. S. Barrance.

Do Unto Others –

Pause before you strike a blow or do an unkind thing
Think before you utter words that leave a hidden sting.
Wait before you pass opinions.
Judge not hastily. Practise in your daily dealings love and charity.
Never wound another by a cruel word or deed.
Go out of your way to lend a hand and meet a need.

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So much has occurred within the last four months in connection with the Playgroup. May I take this opportunity of thanking all who have helped in anyway to make our fund raising events successful, enabling the Supervisors to purchase new educational materials and equipment for the children to enjoy.

The “Nearly New Sale” held in October raised £63.83. We trust you appreciated the service given by the “Bulk Buy” Shop, and we hope to invite the same at our future Nearly New Sales.

The Christmas Fund Raising Evening was also well supported and showed a 10% profit from sales of £21.35 for Playgroup funds.

The Christmas Party was enjoyed by all. The parents were invited to watch the children perform in a Nativity Play, the first time ever attempted! One comment overheard whilst the children were putting their costumes on “I've never seen a cast change so many times” – due to some deciding they wanted to play someone else's part, or not participate at all! We even “lost” one or two characters as they walked towards the stable, having spotted mum in the audience, and then changed direction!

The Carol Singing evening was strongly supported by the local Scouts to whom Playgroup is making a contribution this year. The collection amounted to £103.72. Our sincere thanks and appreciation to Mr. & Mrs. Roulstone for providing a superb buffet afterwards in the Plough Inn.

Results of the Christmas Raffle.

Two dates for your 1983 diary

Sat. 5th Feb. 2. p.m. JUMBLE SALE Village Hall
Sat. 12th March SKITTLES Evening 8.00–Midnight. Berkeley Vale Hotel, Stone.

Babs Pearn. (Sec.)

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It seems no time since we were issuing 1982 information to our clients and there will be a great many changes in this New Year.

All pensions were increased in November and there have been alterations to the qualifications required for Supplementary Benefit. There has been an increase in the capital limit from £2,000 to £2,500, which means many people who abandoned their claim may be well advised to claim again.

From January 1983 there will be three new types of British Citizenship – the new Immigration and Nationality laws are complex and anyone wishing information can get help from the Citizens Advice Bureau who hold all the latest relevant changes in law.

The new Nationality Act cancels all previous regulations and it is important that only the new leaflets and forms valid on January 1st 1983 should be used.

There is also a change in the EEC Driving Licence regulations. Up-to-date information on these and other new items can be checked from our files.

The Citizens Advice Bureau, Wotton-under-Edge, are moving to the Town Council Offices, The Chippings, Wotton-under-Edge, and will be open every TUESDAY from JANUARY 11th 1983, from 10.00 a.m.–1.00 p.m. Telephone No. W/U/E xxxx. At other times 'Phone STROUD xxxx.

The Organiser will continue to attend the Friendship Club meetings at Charfield to help with any problems.

May we wish you all a very happy and prosperous New Year.

Jean McGonnigill. Organiser.

Our Brownie Pack has started it's third year as a separate Pack, and has many activities on the agenda for the Winter months.

Unfortunately Mrs. Wintle our Tawny Owl had to resign, and we should all like to thank her for her help over the past two years.

We are, therefore, in urgent need of further help. Is there anybody who is interested in Guiding or who has perhaps held a warrant in the past, who would like to come along and give a hand.

Lastly, don't forget if your daughter wants to join Brownies please put her name on the waiting list after her 6th birthday as it is very difficult to fit them in at the last moment.

Diane Lowe. Fal. 26xxxx.

(Janet Green – 1st Charfield Pack. W.u.E. xxxx)

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The Committee wishes to thank Mrs. C. King for holding a Coffee Morning at Elm Tree Farm, in Sept. This was a most enjoyable and successful morning which raised £56 for our funds.

The November Whist Drive held at Tortworth School, brought in a further £37 and we are grateful to Mr. Greenway and Mr. Hollister for organising this event.

The Christmas Lunch was threatened this year by the breakdown of one of the cookers in the Village Hall. The day was saved, however, by the tireless efforts of Mrs. S. Jonas, and Mrs. M. Ealey, who at the eleventh hour procured and installed a replacement. Our thanks to these ladies for their public spirited attitude.

The Lunch was held on Dec. 8th and, according to several members, was the “best ever”. Afterwards members were entertained by about 25 children from Charfield Primary School, who sang and played, conducted by Mr. Malpass.

After the Christmas break the fortnightly lunch recommenced on Jan. 5th. The next Lunch will beheld on Jan. 19th, at 12.00 noon in the Village Hall. New members most welcome.

Drivers please! May we appeal again for drivers willing to transport patients or visitors to hospital. The petrol cost may be claimed from Mrs. P. Waring, xxx Manor Lane. If you can help, please give your name to Mrs. Blower, xx Manor Lane, Charfield. Fal. 26xxxx.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish our Youth Club members, old and new, a very Happy New Year.

As you know, we have been going through a very bad patch with many of our members leaving and finding pastures new. However, we are pleased to say that our appeal went quite well and we have about 20 new members attending each week. Hopefully, we will try to continue to stay open and increase our membership. So please come along and join in. Everyone is welcome!

There will be an open meeting for anyone to attend on Wed. 19th Jan. in the Village Hall, from 8.00 onwards. We would like to appoint a new adult Management Committee. Mr. Wood from Avon Area Youth Clubs will be asked to attend.

There are quite a few of our committee members wishing to resign and as all places must be filled, please come along and give your support.

Thank you.

Hilliary and Bill Dagger.

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Our Christmas Party was held on Dec. 13th and Uncle Pete entertained us with his magic and ended with the appearance of his live rabbit who seemed to respond to the words “Brussel Sprouts”!!

The afternoon ended with the arrival of Father Christmas who gave every child a present. The Party was very well attended – 70 plus, and hopefully it was enjoyed by all. Thank you to everyone who helped us during the afternoon.

The Annual General Meeting is being held on Jan. 24th at xx Berkeley Close, at 8.30 p.m. Please do try and attend as a new committee will be elected.

Just in case anybody doesn't know about us, we meet on the first and third Thursday of every month, and the occasional 5th Thursday from 10.15–11.45 a.m. Age group 0–3 plus.

The next “Toddlers” Feb. 3rd, 17th, March 3rd, 17th.

May I Take this opportunity on behalf of the Committee to wish you all a happy New Year, and thank you for your support throughout the past year.

Hope to see you at the next “Toddlers”.

Denise Jarvis. (Sec.)

Another year has gone and a new one raised our hopes for better times – better health, no worries or anxious times.

At our Christmas Party we were able to welcome members of Kingswood Jubilee Club in return for their invitation earlier. It was a good afternoon's pleasure to get us in the Christmas spirit. Our members did a sketch “On the 'phone”, and sang a couple of well known tunes with some of us on stage to help along members to join in the choruses. We also sang carols and finished with Auld Lang Syne.

We all like our Christmas cards and decorations, but have you thought “who decorates the hall for the various functions over the Christmas period”. Yes, you have guessed correctly – The Friendship Club. I am grateful to Mr. Isherwood who helped to hang the decorations. Another member who worked quietly behind the scenes was Mr. Amer, who with his wife took on responsibilities that would have fallen on my shoulders. I thank them for their organising and practical help. In Feb. our members will be going to see “Dick Whittington”, at The Hippodrome.

We would like to welcome more new members at our next meeting Jan. 26th (Wed.) at 2.30. May I wish you all a happy New Year.

Ernest H. Orton. (Chairman.)

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Playgroup Sat. 5th February JUMBLE SALE 2.00 p.m. VILLAGE HALL.

Parent/Teachers Assoc. Fri. 4th February BARN DANCE

Last date COMPETITION for NEWSLETTER HEADING Mon. 21st February.

Playgroup Sat. 21st March SKITTLE EVENING

Parish & District Council Elections – THURS. MAY 5th.

All 3 teams are having a very good Season with the above Club, but outstanding results have been achieved by the under 14's who have lost only one of their league matches this Season. The Christmas Draw was a great success with parents and friends only too ready both to sell and purchase draw tickets. Numerous prizes were donated and a profit of over £100 was made.

Once again local firms and organisations have been most generous in sponsoring the teams and the Committee would like to publicly thank the following for their help –

Peter Pritchard
The Cotswold Building Society.
Bovis Homes.
Sandoe, Luce, Panes.
Jotcham & Kendall Ltd.
Charfield Parish Council.

Finally thanks must go to all who so willingly support the teams each week through all weathers and where-ever the matches are being played.

Hon. Sec. – Mrs. J. Gander.

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Transcriber Notes

This issue was produced on 20 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: 2016-12-06.