CHADRA

1986! Another Year!

We all must wonder what lies ahead, especially perhaps at this time in Charfield, where important issues are being discussed, and where many changes could take place unless we are vigilant.

We are very fortunate here, as we need to walk only a short distance to find ourselves deep in the countryside, where we can enjoy the peace and abundant wildlife. Old meadows, ponds, wet areas, all afford a variety of habitats. Although most of us do appreciate the countryside we tend to take it very much for granted. Only when a favourite walk or wood is suddenly lost are we likely to take a deeper interest and consider, among other things, the welfare and preservation of wildlife. Unfortunately, it is often impossible to replace habitats once they are destroyed. Hedgerows and green lanes are corridors where birds and wildlife can move from one area to another in comparative safety. Hedgerows can be classified as excellent nature reserves.

Each time development takes place outside a previously designated limit of a Village, intruding farther and farther into our countryside many of the simple things are gone forever.

It is very easy for would be developers to claim advantages, as they see them, to any Rural Community – promises made to preserve hedgerows and trees are futile, for this becomes impossible with the necessity for new roads etc.

Why did people now living in rural areas decide to do so we should ask ourselves. Certainly not to find an urban existence being thrusted upon them, and we must question is there really a great need to build, spread and sprawl from urban areas, when inner cities are sadly in need of refurbishment. Is it caused really by a need for housing, or just – money, money, money?

Land-owners should consider themselves custodians of the countryside, for indeed they are, and should be proud of it, and where-ever possible do their best to preserve the environment. Therefore, for the sake of not only ourselves, but future generations we must see that not only in 1986, but in the years ahead we keep an ever watchful eye on our surroundings, and be thankful for them.

Happy New Year to all.

Rosa Gunning. Editor.

LAST DAY FOR ARTICLES FOR APRIL NEWSLETTER
TUESDAY 8th APRIL.

Published by Charfield & District Residents' Association (CHADRA)

1

The normal day to day work of the Parish has been dealt with over the last three months with few major problems or items of concern. The only two outstanding subjects being 1) the railway bridge, on which the Parish Council's policy is to persistently put the problems before the County and to press for a pedestrian footbridge – not a traffic management system. 2) the provision of a footpath in Little Bristol Lane. Although many years have passed since the original request was made the County are unlikely to provide a footpath in the foreseeable future.

At the budget meeting held in December a precept of £2,500 was agreed and forwarded to the District Council and an increased number of grants to village organisation also agreed.

All residents will be aware of the application for outline planning permission to develop 29 acres of land for housing, and almost 200 attended the public meeting held at the school on 7th January. Mr Boswell (Architect) informed the meeting of the proposals; Mr John Hatt (Vice-Chairman of the Parish Council) put forward the details of the Parish Council's objections; Mr Donnelly (Deputy Planning Officer Northavon District Council) answered planning queries and advised future action.

The meeting unanimously endorsed the proposal from the Chairman Mr Cliff Gunning, that the Parish most strongly objects to the proposal and full details of these objections will be forwarded to the District Council in time for the planning committee meeting on 29th January.

Our Member of Parliament Mr John Cope sent his apologies for non-attendance in a letter supporting the Parish Council's objections. Mrs Pat Hockey, our County Councillor, suggested it would be most useful if all residents not only wrote to Mr Cope but also made appointments to visit him personally at his “surgeries” held on Saturdays at Tudor House, Chipping Sodbury.

For the voice of the Parish to be heard and noticed, effort is recommended on an individual basis as little notice is taken of petitions. Therefore please put your objections on paper and send them to (1) Mr J Cope, Tudor House, Chipping Sodbury.(2) Chief Planning Officer, Northavon District Council, Council Offices, Chipping Sodbury, Bristol. (3) Avon County Planning Officer, Avon House North, St James Barton, Bristol BS99 7EB.

The result of the District and County Planning Committee Meetings will be published in the Parish Council Reports to the Gazette, on the notice boards and in the Newsletter.

If the application for planning permission is refused by the District Council and the applicants decide to appeal against this decision, further action will be required by both the Parish Council and all residents. A further door to door circular will provide this information.

The Parish Council thanks all those who showed their concern for the future of the village and their support of the Parish Council by attending the meeting and asks for the full backing of every resident – please write those letters.

Mrs Jenny Hughes
Clerk to the Council

2It is sometimes difficult for a Parish Council in their efforts to serve the Community to be sure that important decisions made by them will necessarily have their blessings.

The Public Meetings on 7th Jan. convened to put forward the Parish Councils objection to the proposed further development in Charfield, made it quite clear by the 200 people present that they were in complete accord with the decision to strongly object to the proposed development.

The attendance at this meeting was a cross section of the whole Village and did not represent only those close to the proposed development. Although the meeting was standing room only I know that but for ill health or previous engagements many more would have liked to have attended and it is also possible that many came but could not get into the Hall.

I urge all of you to read the report by the Parish Clerk, and take her advice and write letters to the bodies she mentions. The task, however, will be by no means complete.

1. Should the Planning Committee approve the development the Village would have to make it's presence felt at the North Avon District Council Meeting, previously having written to each Councillor and to persuade them to refer the outline planning application back to the Planning Committee for further consideration.
2. If, however, the Planning Committee refuse the planning application, the applicants will most probably appeal, and seek a Public Inquiry. It is then our task becomes more difficult, and our representation more urgent. Your support will then need to be intensified. The Ministry of the Environment will have to be convinced that adding 350 more houses in Charfield is bad planning, and would not be the correct solution to the housing problem.
   To force approval to this application against the wishes of the overwhelming majority of the Village would be against our democratic rights.

Details of further action to be taken will be publicised by the Parish Council by notices through the doors, on the Notice Boards, and of course in this Newsletter.

During the following months do not let your declared opposition to this development fade so that in the end common-sense will prevail so that we can still enjoy our Village as it is.

As I pointed out at the Public Meeting on the 7th January, prior to 1978 Charfield had expanded by 350 houses. Since then a further 105 dwellings have been built or approved in accordance with the Village Plan.

Now we have a population of 2,000 and we should cry, halt. WE HAVE GROWN LARGE ENOUGH.

I hope you all read the good report of our Public Meeting in the recent edition of the “Gazette”.

Happy New Year to you all.

S. Clifford Gunning. R.I.B.A. (Retired)
Chairman of Charfield Parish Council

3

About every 7 years Northavon District Council produces a policy document which, in broad terms sets out its aims for the next 7 years.

Such a document has recently been agreed by the Council and here are a few items you may find of particular interest. Under the Section headed “Conservation” the Council say it will “Continue to protect the amenities of local residents, safeguard the rural economy and enhance the quality of the environment generally”.

It particularly mentions that it will resist development on high quality agricultural land, it will support the principles of the green belt and will preserve and enhance the special architectural and historical character of the 22 Northavon Conservation areas.

The Council will continue to give priority to the provision of accommodation for the elderly and will encourage the building of various types of dwelling for first time buyers.

Additional recreational facilities will be provided at the Thornbury and Yate Sports Centres and elsewhere, and grants will continue to be given to Parish Councils to help with the provision of Parish Amenities.

The Council has been very successful in the past in bringing jobs to the District and this policy will continue. Industrial and commercial building is currently providing new jobs and many more will be created by further similar development.

The Avon County Structure Plan has now become operative. It sets out a mass of intentions about how the County will develop up to 1990. The plan allocates a further 9,000 new houses to Northavon to be completed by 1991. This is our share of the anticipated national demand. It will be difficult to achieve because much depends upon the ability of developers to build so many houses and there being sufficient people wishing to buy.

However, Northavon, as the Planning Authority is allocating land for house building (mostly private) as follows. North Fringe (near Patchway 5320, Yate/Thornbury 2934, Severnside 39, Rural areas 687.

Detailed plans on how this will affect the Villages in the District will be prepared by the end of this year. My personal opinion is that Charfield should not be expanded any-more (infilling perhaps) and I was most encouraged by the large number of people who attended the Public Meeting concerning the undesirable outline planning application for 350 houses. I sincerely hope we can beat off this “attack”. Personally I do not think the developers will receive much encouragement from Northavon District Council.

I notice that very few residents in Charfield obtain grants for loft insulation. This is probably because most houses are new and do not want it. However, grants are available for this purpose. Basic grant is 66% of the cost up to £69. But pensioners and people receiving rent or rate rebates, supplementary benefits for example (and there are other circumstances too) can receive 90% up to £95. If anyone is interested ring Chipping Sodbury 31xxxx and ask for Mr. Brown of the Environment Department.

New Year's Eve seems a long way away now, but I do wish everyone a Very Happy Year in 1986.

F.T. Pearson.

4

(1) Planning application for up to 350 houses off Manor Lane and Little Bristol Lane.

A very well attended meeting convened by the Parish Council was held on January 7th to gauge the reactions of the residents to this proposal. Councillors, Mrs. Pat Hockey, and Mr. Pearson attended together with the Deputy Planning Officer, of Northavon District Council. A letter from Mr. John Cope M.P. pledging his support for the stand taken by the Parish Council was read to the meeting.

After a short address by a representative of the Architects acting for the applicants, during which some rather vague references to possible improvements in facilities were treated with some scepticism by those present, Mr. John Hatt, put the case against the proposed development based on the reasons listed in the public notice circulated through the village. These reasons will not be dwelt on here as the proceedings at the recent special Parish Council Meeting were fully reported in the Gazette and will no doubt be referred to by the Parish Clerk elsewhere in this Newsletter.

At the conclusion of the meeting whole-hearted support was given to a proposal that the development should be resisted by all possible means. THE CHADRA GENERAL COMMITTEE AGREES WITH THIS DECISION and offers to help in any way possible to achieve this objective.

With regard, to tactics informed opinion is very definite that obtaining signatures on petitions carries very little weight with the Authorities and it is absolutely necessary FOR INDIVIDUALS TO WRITE TO THE BODIES AND INDIVIDUALS CONCERNED. It will be necessary to arrange for residents to attend Planning Meetings and in particular for large numbers to attend any Public Inquiry which may take place later. With regard to the writing of letters it is suggested that as a first step letters should go not only to our M.P. and the Chief Planning Officer of Northavon Council, but also to The County Planning Officer, Avon House, St. James Barton, BRISTOL.
PLEASE WRITE THESE THREE LETTERS TO ARRIVE BY JANUARY 20th IF AT ALL POSSIBLE.

Letters to the Secretary of State for the Environment should await any Public Inquiry which may take place and be sent at that time.

YOUR COMMITTEE WILL BE SEEKING TO RECRUIT RESIDENTS WHO WISH TO TAKE PART IN THE CAMPAIGN, so please contact the Secretary or come along to our A.G.M. announced below, if you wish to help.

(2) ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING.

The A.G.M. of the Charfield Residents Association will be held in the School Foundation Hall on Tuesday 28th January, 1986 at 7.30 p.m.

The Agenda and nomination forms for committee membership are being distributed with this issue of the Newsletter. Please come along if you have suggestions to make or would like to help.

Geoff Blower.
Hon. Secretary.

5

First of all let me congratulate the Village on such a good representation at the Public Meeting instigated by the Parish Council on Tuesday 7th Jan. 1986, when views concerning the outline application for development on 29 acres of land in Charfield were presented.

Once again the villagers turned up in strength and voted over-whelmingly to support the Parish Council's objections to any further large development.

Secondly, and on reflection I feel that perhaps whilst we have no right to deny other people coming to live in Charfield, to increase the population by 50% would subsequently change the character of the Village, and it would cease to be “Charfield”.

It's up to us all to back the Parish Council and North Avon District Council all we can.

It is our Village, so let's see what we can do. We made it once – let's do it again!

M. Smith.

Dear Editor,
Who said this was a Village of lethargy? Anyone who thinks that should have attended the meeting called by the Parish Council on Jan. 7th, to put their objections to the Outline planning application now before the District Council, for 350 houses to be built on 29 acres of land – what sort of houses I ask myself. Lethargy! Never! the hall was packed to over-flowing and the vote taken could have left no-one present with any doubt of how the Villagers felt, and their support for both the Parish Council & District Council.

One, amongst many comments overheard – “I should think after this meeting the land-owners and developers should withdraw gracefully”. This is too much to expect perhaps with so much financial gain involved. So the fight must go on!

E.K.J.

Dear Editor,
When will planners and landowners get the message, no more development in Charfield? Any more, and Charfield as we know it who have lived here for many years will no longer exist, becoming just another town. Do we really want any more facilities than we have if the Village stays it's present size?

We knew when we chose to live here what the facilities were, and accepted them – those who don't move away!

I have no farther to go to see a doctor now than I did when living in a big town, which meant crossing from one side of the conurbation to the other.

Let's keep Charfield the way it is and do all we can to back up the Parish Council, Residents Association and others in their fight.

P. Ellis.

In the past when Villagers have been asked for comments to include in the Newsletter they have been reluctant to do so.

Surely, the above must indicate the strength of feeling about the outline planning application now before the District Council.

R.G. Editor.

6

League Season 1985–86 (to date) 4.1.86.

Leading Goal Scorers (inc. Cup Comp.)

Simon Bamford 14
Mack Spill 5
Martyn Dean 5

Charfield Football Club had an indifferent 1985, with both teams having to work hard for points, and as the tables show, the 1st team have responded well under new Manager, Martyn Munden, and although league success is unlikely, they still have the Berkeley Hospital Cup to aim for.

The reserves, however, have struggled to win points, although of late, they have achieved some well earned results, and lets hope for a brighter 1986.

As previously mentioned, we train on Wednesday evenings, under floodlight at K.L.B. commencing at 8.15 p.m. and any new footballers to the Village would be made very welcome. Transport leaves from outside the Railway Tavern at 7.50 p.m.

Happy new Year.

Dean Saunders.
Secretary.

All are welcome. Any enquiries – Miss. M. Turner, Fal. 26xxxx

In thy light shall we see light. Psa. 36-9.

He's the light at the end of a tunnel
A star in the darkness of night
He's the life-line in safety, on treacherous seas,
and the Captain of souls in life's fight
He's a shelter of rest for the weary,
A rock in the world's sinking sands,
He's a certain foundation in uncertain times
And the Universe lies in His hands,
He's the gateway of life ever-lasting
The path of atonement He trod.
He's everything perfect, and honest and true
And through Him we find peace with God
He's the sun and moon, and the glory
From the splendour of Heaven He came
He's the rainbow of promise to all who believe
He is Jesus, and love is His name.

7

It has been a great encouragement and inspiration that there have been very good congregations at our special services in recent months. (for example, Harvest, Remembrance, Christingle, Sunday Club's Nativity play – that's as far as we have got at the time of writing this!) The Archdeacon, who came to speak at Harvest, actually wrote to me after that Service to say what a pleasure it had been for him to be involved in such worship, that he had been most impressed by the numbers at the service and the happy atmosphere that prevailed, (I am quoting his actual words) and what an encouragement it must be to see so many young families in Church. (It is!). We do try and make our attitude in Church and I hope outside, relaxed and friendly – unpompous!

Our ‘Morning Worship’ Services are particularly suitable for those who are not very used to attending Church; and if you would like to be involved within the service, there is always something to do. Please don't let this put you off – you don't have to! But many have gifts and talents which can be expressed in such a service – reading a lesson, playing a musical instrument, mime (we haven't had that yet!). We can bring the offerings (like the wise men) of what we are and what we can do. In that way everything in our worship becomes more meaningful – we put OURSELVES into it.

Once again, at the beginning of a New Year, I invite you to have a serious ‘go’ at joining with us on a more regular basis, the ‘never-come-befores’, the ‘only-come-sometimes-ers’ – all of you! If we understand what worship is about (and that we all only learn slowly, and go on learning), we see how important it is in the life of the world, and in the fulfilment of that otherwise undeveloped part in ourselves which we call our spiritual nature. It must be clear to us that a lot has gone wrong with the world in which we live. When adults can kill little children and when little children can viciously terrorise and attack helpless old people, it makes one's heart grieve. What has happened to our moral and spiritual education? Is easy optimism in the fundamental goodness of human nature realistic? Or are the religious movements (in the best sense) nearer the truth when they suggest that people need the help, the invasion of a Spiritual Power beyond themselves to brood over the inner darkness and lack of direction and to give NEWNESS OF LIFE? Certainly we cannot have the love of God deeply in our hearts and then murder, or even hate, or even dislike. For me, there is a clear relationship between worship, rightly understood, and the quality of life in our own family group, and in the wider world.

What a hopeful thing it would be for ourselves, our village community, and the wider world if we got this right in our own lives. A NEW YEAR and the beginnings of a NEWNESS OF LIFE at the same time! A happy new year to you all.

If you think all the above a bit serious (and it is, though I hope not ‘stuffy’) – well just to show you the other side, we are holding a St. Valentine's dance at the Village Hall on Friday the 14th February, from 9.00–1.00 for ALL of course. Tickets £2. Buffet and Bar. We often have fun!

Kenneth G. Grant.

To get the full value of joy we must have somebody to divide it with.

Busy hands mean active minds.

8

First of all I would like to wish everyone a Very Happy New Year, and to follow a selection of dates for your diary:-

Friday, Feb. 14th – 9.00 p.m–1.00 a.m. in Charfield Memorial Hall – A Valentines Dance.
Saturday May 17th – from 10.00 a.m. in the Church Grounds – A Plant Sale.
Saturday Sept. 20th – 2.30 p.m. in Memorial Hall – Annual Bazaar.

We also hope to arrange a Jumble Sale in the Foundation Room late February or early March, also another Beetle Drive.

Tickets for the Valentines Dance will be available shortly and we hope you will support all these events. The Church is there for everyone and needs cash to keep it standing.

Margaret Clarke.
P.C.C. Secretary.
'Phone Fal. 26xxxx.

Following the A.G.M. on October 10th, a “Brains Trust” panel answered questions on “Bringing up a Teenager – it's no joke!” The questions were many and varied but considerable interest was shown in the problem of drug abuse. It is hoped that during this term an open evening will be held on this subject; posters will be displayed around the Village informing you of the date.

The election of Parent Governors to the School took place also on Oct. 10th and Mr. Graham Smith – xx Parklands, Wotton-under-Edge, and myself were elected. Also the Staff Governors elected were Mr. Ian Unsworth Maths. and Mr. John Lloyd – English.

A very successful Jazz Evening with the “Celebration Jazz Band” was held in the School on Friday December 6th. During the evening the 1st Draw of the 500 Club was made and the winners were –

1st.	£125.	Mrs. Ceridwen Holland. W.u.E.
2nd.	£50.	Mr. & Mrs. P.J. Durn. Kingswood.
3rd.	£25.	Mrs. D.E. Young. Ragnall.

During the evening I also had the pleasure of presenting a cheque for £4,350 to the headmaster Mr. J. Low; this money to be spent on new curtains for the Drama Hall – £1,400 on a Video Camera £1,400, Dip coating machine, a vacuum forming machine and a strip bending machine for the Craft Design & Technology Dept., £550 and 6 large Landing Mattresses for the P.E. Dept., – £1,000.

The P.T.A. still have a list of equipment which the School would like financial assistance with and it is hoped that we will be able to clear the list by the next A.G.M. Forthcoming events to help raise the money –

An Evening of Poems & Pints on Feb. 6th.
A Barn Dance – May 16th
Annual Gymkhana – Sept. 7th.

We hope that parents and friends will support these events and we thank you for all your support during the last year.

If you have any problems concerning the School which you would like the P.T.A. to help with, the new representatives on the committee are –

Mrs. Jacky Swallow, xx Station Road, Charfield.
Mrs. Pat Waring, xxx Manor Lane, Charfield.

On behalf of the P.T.A. I wish you all a Very Happy & Prosperous 1986.

Margaret Clarke. 26xxxx. Chairwoman.

9

After years of pressure by Governors, Parent Teacher Association and myself, we have been informed that this school is one of those included in the Improvement Programme 1988/89, with a feasibility study being carried out to establish which schemes can be undertaken within the provisional total allocation of money.

Although this is encouraging, the reality is that the allocation may not be available, or be reduced, when the time comes, or other more urgent schemes may have pushed us off the list.

There has been no consultation as yet, but what I think the school needs most of all is for all the temporary classrooms to be replaced with permanent ones, all under one roof or linked in some way. Two of the temporary classrooms will have to be replaced in the near future in any case, so this is a very basic need.

The present infant's block was completed in 1970 and this was to be the first phase of a new school. No attempt has been made to complete it since. Inclusion in the 1988/89 Improvement Programme is the best opportunity for a substantial improvement in the quality of the school buildings we have had since then. Whether anything tangible comes of it is uncertain, but some schools have recently had major improvements. Some schools will be improved in the near future. We have to try to make sure Charfield School is one of them. Government decides how much money is spent, but Avon Councillors decide where it is spent. I think it is time some of it was spent here. I hope you agree, whether you have a direct interest in the school or not, and will use any opportunity that may present itself to press our claims.

D.A. Malpass.
Headmaster.

We started the School Year with our Annual Handicraft & Cake Sale which as in previous years was a great success. The Wine Tasting Evening followed shortly after, Mr. Stapleton, a representative for Oddbins being our host. The evening was well supported and once again proved to be a very successful and enjoyable event. Thank you again for your valuable support.

Our next event is a GOLDEN OLDIES NITE on Friday 31st January from 8.00 p.m. until Midnight in the VILLAGE MEMORIAL HALL – a follow up to the successful 50's & 60's Nite held last year. The reason for giving it a new title is to give a broader time span, ranging from the late fifties through to the seventies, so as to cater for the younger ones amongst us! Bob Lusty once again will provide the music and the Hall Management the Bar. TICKETS £2.00 each – this includes a BUFFET SUPPER, and are now available from P.T.A. Committee Members.

Barry Spindler.
Chairman.

Happy New Year to you all. It would be nice to see a few more new faces in the New Year.

We meet each Tuesday at 10.30 a.m. under the supervision of Mrs. Jones, in the Memorial Hall. Do come along and join us.

10

Our Christmas Dinner was held on 4th December, when members and helpers sat down to the usual seasonal culinary delights of turkey with all the trimming and home made Christmas pudding.

The cooking this year was revolutionized by the use of Roz Nieboer's Microwave. Poor Mrs. Amer almost passed out on arriving in the Hall at 10.00 a.m. to be confronted by two uncooked turkeys. However, with the aid of modern science all turned out well and we sat down on time to a delicious Christmas meal. Afterwards being enjoyably entertained by the children of Cromhall School, and finishing the afternoon with a mince pie and singing carols to the accompaniment of Mrs. Marklove on the piano.

Our first dinner of the New Year will be on 15th January and every four weeks thereafter. The price of the meal is now 50p which includes a good cooked dinner, pudding and cup of tea; so if you are tempted let me know and we shall be very pleased to see you.

Needless to say, we are still on the look out for a Cook – if you feel like giving it a try, or would like to assist in the Kitchen please get in touch.

Best wishes to all our members for a Happy and Healthy New Year.

Jane Higgins.
Secretary.

Transport Scheme.

Please note – if anyone wishes to use the Transport Scheme and for any reason are unable at any-time to contact Mrs. Blower, Fal. 26xxxx, please get into touch with me – Fal. 26xxxx, when I shall be pleased to help.

J. Higgins.

11

The collections for Poppy Day were considerably higher than last year, and I would like to thank all who contributed towards the total of £202.60, with thanks also to my band of helpers whose individual collections were:-

Mrs. B. Britton	£23.16		Mrs. M. Burden	£5.00
Charfield Primary School	20.00		Mrs. P. Hawkins	15.15
Huntingford Mill Hotel	11.30		Mrs. E. Kingscote	14.45
Mr. S. Mussell	22.99		Mrs. S. Nixon	16.59
Post Office	3.90		Mrs. J. Rees	8.69
Mrs. K. Smith	11.61		Mrs. M. Smith	36.04
Mrs. S. Weston	13.15

plus the collections at the Morning Service and Combined Service at St. John's Church of £90.91.

Betty Mussell.

11

A Happy New Year to all! I hope that you all had a good Christmas and that Father Christmas was kind to everyone, and brought all the presents that you wanted!

We are back into the swing of things at Mothers & Toddlers as usual every Thursday at 10.15 a.m. Please come along.

We had a super Christmas Party with 40 toddlers tucking into a lovely spread. Mum's enjoyed mince pies and wine, and we had a “special visitor” who brought presents for all!

The mum's night out to Yate, the Lawns Inn, was a great success, with everyone having a good evening. Thanks to all who helped to make the two occasions such a success.

We are off to “Toys R Us”, next week to buy some new toys for our toddler sessions, so if we manage to emerge unscathed look forward to some new activities for your toddlers!

Last, but by no means least our A.G.M. is to be held on 17th MARCH at 8.00 p.m. at xx Station Road. Please, please, come along. We are desperate for committee members – the more volunteers the less work for each of us. If you like your toddler to benefit from our weekly sessions, please join our committee to ensure that things continue. Make a note in your diary NOW!

Linda Felton.
Secretary.

First, a quick backward glance at '85, to say that just over a £100 was raised at November's Coffee Morning. This amount enabled us, on your behalf, to give quite generously to some local charities, and one of the Village Clubs.

Mind you, it is said “charity begins at home”, and we do hope our efforts at the Christmas Dinner supported this. A very big thank you to our helpers that night who served at such remarkable speed and then went on to wash and dry at even greater speed! Special thanks also to John, Geoff, and Olly behind the Bar.

Now to '86 and future dates:-

March brings us and me to the end of the 85/86 programme. The reins, crown and keys all pass to Sharon Vale that night, and I have no doubt that she will ensure that “Young Wives” continues to flourish.

A very personal thank you from me to all members and helpers along the way for your support. Also, a very warm thank you to my committee ladies for all their hard work. Every success to Sharon and her committee for the 86/87 year.

Heather Griffiths.
Chair-lady.

12

1985 was a good year for Charfield W.I. with an increase in membership and a fund-raising event that was a real winner.

The fund raising event I'm referring to was the hand-made patchwork bedspread. This was raffled and raised almost £200. The beautiful bedspread was won by a local lady who was absolutely thrilled with her win.

We have taken part in many Village events, Sports Day, being only one of them, and our slogan “Women in the Community” certainly rings true in Charfield.

Our membership has enjoyed listening to and watching a variety of Speakers and demonstrations, including Harvey's Sherry Evening, Nature Conservation, Magic in the Kitchen, and Egg Decorating.

We look forward to 1986 when we shall be raising money for Southmead Baby Unit. We are a charitable organisation and much of our fund raising is to help others either in our community or further afield.

Keep an eye on the notice boards where news of our meeting, the second Thursday in the month, and our Speakers is posted regularly. Come and see a Microwave Cookery Demonstration, or learn about alternative medicine with us – you are always welcome.

If you have any questions or queries about Charfield W.I. or the W.I. as a National Movement, please get in touch with me or any other member, and we will try to help you.

A happy, healthy and prosperous New Year to all our members and readers of the Newsletter.

Susan B. Green.
President.

This is my first piece for the Newsletter as I took over from Pat Martin in September.

I wish you all a Happy 1986. We had a “Bring & Buy” Sale in October, which as well as helping the funds, enabled people to get together for a chat. The children's Christmas Party in December was a huge success, the star attraction being Father Christmas. Thanks to all who helped by making cakes, jellies etc.

We also went Carol Singing on a drizzily December night. This was a very enjoyable and profitable evening with Father Christmas in attendance again, helping to collect money this time instead of dishing out presents! The children rode on a trailer which they thought was great fun. Music was provided by Woodford Silver Band, and a fine supper was enjoyed afterwards at “The Plough” Many thanks to all who helped in any way whatsoever.

Now a date for your diaries – Play Group are holding a JUMBLE SALE at the Memorial Hall, on SATURDAY FEBRUARY 22nd. Do come and support us.

Diane Butler.
Secretary.

13

The 1985 Season produced mixed results for Charfield Cricket Club.

The First XI, under Ray Johnson, finished third from the bottom of the C & G Division One. In his words, ‘Individuals generally didn't perform at a high enough standard’. However, teenagers Paul Bath and Simon Hutley both produced encouraging performances; Paul twice scoring over 50 in his debut Season for the First XI.

For the Second XI, promotion from C & G Division Five was well deserved. Under ‘old stager’ Rod Alexander, notable performances came from the younger players – Mark Young, Matthew Hutley Terry Webb, Phil Train and Mark Nixon. Newcomers Ian Downing and Alan Foxwell, along with the seemingly ageless Ivor Morgan all contributed to a genuine team effort.

Reg. Baker's Sunday XI had a good Season, losing only 5 times in 24 Matches – all this despite playing 34 different players.

The Youth XI, led by Matthew Hutley, once again reached the semi-finals of the Bristol and District League by winning their division, but lost in a close match to Frenchay. In the Knock-out Cup they were handsomely beaten by Clifton (who are Captained by England Youth Player Ollie Smith), despite reducing Clifton to 19 for 5 at one stage.

Awards won in 1985 were:-

Officers for 1986

Finally, many thanks to Mrs. Hutley, Mrs. Johnson and Mrs. Nixon, for their invaluable help in preparing the teas.

Indoor Net practice at K.L.B. Sports Hall starts on SUNDAY 12th JAN. 1986 – EVERY SUNDAY MORNING 10.30 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. NEW MEMBERS WELCOME.

Richard Nuttall.
C.C.C. Secretary.
Falfield 26xxxx.

14

At the start of this New Year we would like to thank all our loyal parents and friends for their tremendous support last year, and wish them all a very happy and prosperous 1986.

Many thanks to all of you who were involved in the selling and particularly those who bought our Christmas Draw tickets – we are now on our way to raising enough cash for two new strips for the boys at the start of next season.

Our Christmas Disco was also a good family evening and much enjoyed by everybody who attended.

So far we have not had many matches cancelled due to the weather, but it is early days yet this winter. Both the under 12's and the under 14's are doing extremely well in their respective leagues with the under 12's so far unbeaten in any league games. Four of the under 12 team have recently been for district trials, and three of the under 14 team have, or will be having, trials in the next week or two.

Training is continuing on a Wednesday evening at K.L.B. School with all boys meeting in the Memorial Hall Car park at 6.00 p.m.

Due to lack of fixtures over the Christmas and New Year period a friendly match was arranged for the under 12's against Avon Athletics, a team very high in the Bristol League. This team was a completely unknown element to the Charfield boys, and after a good, if somewhat muddy game, Avon were the winners by 5–2.

We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible on our touch-line in the coming weeks, and promise you good, clean friendly spirited football.

Jenny Harvey.

I am pleased to say that the Junior Club which I started in October has so far been very successful. We have had a regular attendance of 18 9–10 year old girls on Monday evenings, at the K.L.B, Sports Hall, for an energetic, if somewhat chaotic game of net-ball. Considering the majority of them have only just started playing they have done very well, and I'm sure will continue to improve as time goes on.

Thank you girls for attending so regularly, and thank you too to all the mums and dads for providing the transport.

I hope to see you all again in 1986 – we start on MONDAY 13th January.

Please note – the ladies Netball Club is still meeting at the Sports Hall, K.L.B. on Tuesday evenings 7.15–8.15 p.m, but we are in desperate need of more players.

Anyone interested please contact me –

Julie Hillier, Falfield 26xxxx or
Miriam Ealey – Falfield 26xxxx.

15

Looking back over the last three months one of the activities our members enjoyed was the shopping trip to Swindon. The day was dry and bright so that we could do our Christmas shopping etc., for five hours without umbrellas!

We held a “Bring & Buy” Sale in October which was very successful and replenished our funds.

We often read these days about burglaries and muggings, and so we were fortunate to have a Speaker from Avon Police to talk to us at one of our meetings about securing our premises and ourselves from suspicious callers. The talk, though serious, was very interesting, and our members were eager for advice on their individual circumstances.

Christmas Dinner this year was held at a Gloucestershire Hotel, a departure from the usual venue, which was a great success.

May I remind you again of the advice of Mrs. McGonnigill, of the Citizens Advice Bureau, who attends our meetings to help those in need, – “keep your head covered, as the days lengthen, the cold strengthens”.

E.A. Orton.
Chairman.

It seems a long time ago since the collection took place, but as I didn't manage a list for the last Newsletter, as promised here it is:-

Mrs. Spindler, Old Manor Close	£4.79
Mrs. Parfitt, Avon Rd., Severn Close, Thames Close	12.34
Mr. Butler, Lt. Bristol, Old Charfield	10.15
Mrs. Shipton, Bottom end of Manor Lane	6.37
Mrs. Clothier, Charfield Gr., Lt. B. Close	9.71
Mrs. Grantham, Berkeley Close	7.00
Mrs. Gooch, Durham Road	14.44
Mrs. Golding, Avon Grange	17.60
Mrs. Zaparta, Top end of Manor Lane	15.80
Mrs. Meek, top of Wotton Rd./Drive	5.65
Mrs. Wells, Wotton Rd, School to Village Hall/Newtown	9.43
Mrs. Crowfoot, New St.	6.85
Mrs. Light, Bottom end Wotton Rd., from   Station Rd. to Watsom Farm	12.41
Mrs. Kingscote, Horsford Rd.	4.87
Mrs. Leach, Station Rd., Maygrove	13.16
Mrs. Martin, Underhill Rd./Katherine Close.	17.86
Mrs. Haines, Cotswold View.	6.56
Mrs. Smith, Orchard Close/Willow Close	9.10

As you can see all the totals were well over 1984, and so a big thank you to all who helped make the collection such a well worth effort. Now let's look forward to next September, and hope that we can manage to up the 1986 total yet again. In fact I paid in £186 for which the National Children's Homes, were more than grateful.

Marion Smith.
Local N.C.H. Secretary.

16

One of the two stated aims of the C.A.B. Service is to exercise a responsible influence on the development of social policies and services, locally and nationally.

C.A.B. is achieving this aim nationally by dealing with 6,000,000 enquiries in 1985. This was in spite of financial constraints on local authorities hitting hard at C.A.B. funding.

For the first time in the C.A.B's history social security problems have topped the 1,000,000 mark and so the work of the bureaus is increasingly becoming a life-line for the poorest people.

There will be many changes in the social security system this year and the green paper put forward by the Government has not been fully worked out, including the reform of the tax system with changes in benefits. Our files, however, are up-to-date with the current regulations and we can advise on any problems which may arise on this, and in any other area.

Remember, C.A.B. is a confidential and free service for all the Community. We are open at The Chippings, Wotton-under-Edge, every Tuesday from 10.00 a.m. until 1.00 p.m. (Tel. Dursley 84 xxxx). We are always happy to help with any problem – small or large – so do try us.

The Organiser will attend the Friendship Club Meetings to help the O.A.P's and save them the trouble of going into Wotton.

My thanks to everyone for their kind good wishes when I was ill during the Summer. I am now fully recovered.

Best wishes to you all for 1986.

Jean McGonnigill.
Organiser.

Unfortunately, the telephone number given on the back page of the last Newsletter (Taxis Service (24 hrs)) is no longer in use. I understand that several people have tried to get this number without success. I too have tried! I apologise for any inconvenience caused, for it is obvious from enquiries made that there is a need for a Taxis Service in Charfield. Enquiries are being made and it is hoped to be able to supply an alternative number in due course.

The Editor.
R.G.

All things to Enjoy

Look not to your worldly goods your soul to satisfy
Find your pleasure in the beauty money cannot buy;
The song of birds at morning and the stars at eventide,
The trees, the flowers, the sun, the air, the open
countryside … If in these you find your joy your
heart will always sing – for you'll see the face of
God in every lovely thing.

17

Having waved “goodbye” to the last of my Christmas & New Year's guests, and eaten the last of the mince pies and sausage rolls! I have sat down to contemplate the past year's activities in the Village Hall. Well, without boring you all silly with the details, I will quickly summarise what has been going on.

We have had many fund raising events during the year which have included, Car Boot Sales, Jumble Sales, Family Discos, Children's Events, and our Craft Fair, also of course Sports & Gala Day. These events help to fund the regular maintenance and improvement work which is needed to keep the Hall habitable for both Clubs and private Hirers.

This year's Craft Fair was a great success raising approx. £250. Already most of the stalls are booked for next year, and more bookings are coming in all the time. All we need now is more room to put them all.

Car Boot Sales have been very well attended raising between £120–£150 at each event. Mind you, the weather has been with us on these occasions, the only three really hot days in the year, bringing out between 30–40 cars and an extremely full Car Park.

Young Ones Discos have also been very successful and regularly make a good profit, plus giving the over 8's an evening to enjoy.

Sports & Gala Day this year was our 25th, and apart from the weather was a great day, raising money to help with several projects including tables and chairs.

We have also had several other family events including discos and tiny tots events, and Father Christmas came to our very successful under 8's Christmas get-together.

The Bar has played a major part in funding of projects throughout the Hall, and is also helping with the increase of private bookings, enabling us to keep the hire costs to Village Clubs as low as possible.

During the year we have raised sufficient money to replace 100 chairs (tables are also in the pipeline). We have provided also, plates, knives, forks, spoons etc., for approximately 100 people. This will help greatly when the Hall is hired for weddings, parties etc. Any Clubs wishing to use these facilities need only ask the Booking Secretary.

The Young Wives very kindly redecorated the ladies cloakroom and we have since added vanity units and mirrors – it's quite civilised in there now!

We have several projects in mind for the coming year, one of which is artexing and repairing the main hall ceiling and repainting walls, doors etc. The renovation of the gents toilets and showers will be a major expense, and careful planning of the facilities is under way.

We hope to add a scramble net to the play area in the very near future, for those of you wondering what the pole and several large logs are doing behind the hall. They will be the frame for the net.

We are also looking into heating and lighting.

We hope to continue with activities during 1986, not only to raise funds for the Hall, but also to provide a social meeting place for all the Village.

If anyone has any ideas for fund raising projects or can help us with any future improvement projects please do not hesitate to contact our Secretary – Mrs. M. Clarke, Fal. 26xxxx.

18My thanks to all who have helped directly, or indirectly with functions also with painting, decorating, digging and building throughout 1985.

Remember, your Village Hall and Playing Field, is a charity; income from bookings, fund raising events, and grants from the Parish Council, is how it exists. The more the Village puts into it the more that can be provided.

Here's to a successful 1986!

Jane Hall.
Vice Chairperson.

I am sure Jane, your contribution will be well-read and appreciated by all those who have enquired in the past “why no write-up from the Village Hall”.

Thank you for this contribution. Please keep it up, and make notes ready for April edition!

R.G. Editor.

Have you ever thought of other uses for coffee other than drinking it?

Did you know that three or four freshly roasted coffee beans placed in the ashtray of a car will help to absorb the smell of the cigarette smoke and ash, and help the car to smell fresh?

There are other uses for tea also, such as:-

An old-fashioned cure for tired eyes was to bathe them in an eye bath of cold tea. Now a cold, used tea bag is more likely to be employed on the closed eyelids while resting.

An infusion of China tea and a heaped teaspoon of dried sage used when cool as a final hair rinse helps to lessen the effect of greying.

Soothe tired feet by soaking in a bowl of cold tea to which has been added the juice of 1 lemon and a pinch of salt.

Hot sweet tea used to be the top first aid treatment for shock, but it is now going out of favour. However, a cup of tea is always the first remedy one thinks of in home crises.

When a saucepan burns, the best way to remove the black crust is to pour into it leftover tea, possibly with the addition of some salt, and leave for at least 24 hours.

Varnished woodwork can be successfully cleaned with a solution of strong cold tea.

Anymore bright ideas gratefully received!

19

1985 being our 75th year was extremely busy with extra activities other than the normal weekly meeting. We enjoyed picnics at Nibley and Conygres, we had a nature trial round Tortworth Lake, and despite the bad weather we managed to go swimming at Wotton.

We joined 2nd Charfield for a picnic at Avening Green, a Rounds Match, a Halloween Party, and a Christmas Party. Wotton Brownies invited us to their Christmas party.

We now start 1986 with the District Party followed by the District Thinking Day in February.

Any girls between 7 and 10 who would like to join us on Tuesday 4.30 to 5.45 at the Village Hall, will be most welcome. We try to make it fun to be a Brownie. Also any other girls coming up to 7 please let us have your names ready to start when you are 7 – just 'phone Mrs. Green, Dursley 84xxxx.

We thank all parents for their support in 1985.

J. Green.

It was a pleasure to attend a meeting called by the Parish Council on Tuesday 7th January, and find so many members of the Village present. On the last occasion when the landowners and developers applied for planning permission, it was the Residents Association that had to lead the successful fight with very little support from the Parish Council. The Residents Association had to awaken the residents to the problem. What a change to find that it is the Parish Council that is leading and obviously is far more in touch with the residents views than in the past.

I am sure that somebody else will actually report on the meeting and therefore there is very little purpose in duplicating comment. However, my concern is the danger of complacency.

It has been indicated that Northavon will refuse the application to develop and that it will more likely go to Appeal. Although until the actual Planning Meeting takes place it is of course not fact; if you object to the application it is important that you write to the District Council and also to the County Council voicing your opinion. Letters will have a far greater effect than any petition. If the developers appeal and a Public Inquiry is called, we have to fight. Because we fought and won in 1978, it will have very little bearing on the developers fresh application.

I hope that the Parish Council will set up an Action Committee. I am not a great believer in committees but we do need one in this case to co-ordinate the opinions of the residents, and to ensure that we are properly represented with a very good case to put to the Inspector from the Ministry of Environment.

It is naive to assume that it will not go to Appeal, and although it is more likely going to be 9 months to 1 year before it is heard, we must start making our views known and getting the act together now. COME ON WAKE UP. If you do not agree with the development of the Village you have got to do something about it.

I am sure I speak for many people in the Village and definitely for those who attended the meeting, in thanking our Parish Council, representatives of the Northavon District Council, also the developers Architect for attending the meeting.

M.G. Burfield.

#

Hon. Secretary –	G.R. Blower, 98 Manor Lane, Charfield. Wotton-under-Edge. Glos. GL12 8TY.
Telephone – Falfield 26xxxx.

The 12th ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING of the above ASSOCIATION will be held in the NATIONAL SCHOOL FOUNDATION HALL, Charfield School, on TUESDAY 28th JANUARY 1986, at 7.30 p.m.

AGENDA.

(1) Apologies for absence.
(2) Minutes of the last A.G.M. held on the 29th Jan.1985.
(3) Matters arising from (2).
(4) Chairman's Report.
(5) Treasurer's Report.
(6) Election of Officers and Committee Members.
(7) Election of Hon. Auditor.
(8) Any other business.

“Membership of the Association includes all occupiers and their families over 18 years of age of all domestic premises within the Parish of Charfield”, so if you have views to put forward on any local matters please come along.

NOMINATION FORM.

If you wish to nominate an Officer or Committee Member this may be done on the slip provided below which with the agreement of the Nominee should be returned to the Hon. Secretary by January 24th 1986. Alternatively, nominations can be made at the Meeting.

I wish to nominate …
Nominator …

For information the composition of the current Committee is as follows:-

Chair-person	Mrs. J. Clothier	Committee:	Mr. F. Denslow
Vice-Chairman	Mr M. Cheskin		Mr. E. Gillard
Treasurer	Mr S.C. Gunning		Mrs. M. Jones
Press Officer	Mrs. J. Crowfoot		Mrs. M. Talbot
Hon. Secretary	Mr. G.R. Blower		Mr. S. Talbot

Transcriber Notes

This issue was produced on 20 sides of A4 paper, and a CHADRA nomination form.

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: 2016-12-12.