CHADRA

… That John (Marathon Man) Francksen is running the London marathon again next year.

… That the village traffic calming will not just rely on strongly worded signs, but there will be a flashing speed display.

… That Barbara Adams can no longer organise the blood doning sessions and is looking for someone to take over.

… That the Village Fayre raised a total of £3,200 and will next year be celebrating it's 40th Anniversary.

… That Mark Pearn (who comes from Charfield) scored for the Team GB Hockey Team at the Olympics. It's a shame the team failed to qualify for the second round.

… That the Football Team have started the season strongly and are unbeaten.

… That the Under 16's football team are also unbeaten this season.

… That Woodlands Road could cease to be a Neighbourhood Watch are unless a volunteer can be found.

… That you only have until 18th November to suggest hymns / songs for the ‘Millennium Songs of Praise at St John's Church.’

… That the cricket club is looking for helpers to run a youth cricket team in 2001.

… That Janice Vardon-Smith is looking to arrange teenage discos if she can get sufficient adult helpers.

2

Welcome to the last edition of the newsletter for this year. Ever experimenting with new formats this issue includes the first colour page. This has only been possible because the advertiser printed off sufficient copies in colour! CHADRA does not have colour copying facilities so please do not inundate us with requests for colour articles.

The newsletter production team is about to get bigger as Hilary is expecting a baby on the 26th November. We will be training it to copy type very early on so that it can help out as soon as possible! Watch out for our roving reporter.

Next Copy Date – 12th January 2001

3

How did the recent fuel crisis affect you? Despite the underlying worry of how long the whole thing could last, I actually felt a better person at the end of it and quite proud of my resourcefulness – it's amazing what you can do if you have to!

Having a keen runner in the house was an enormous help in conserving fuel as he was happy to (literally) run errands to neighbouring villages and beyond. When we needed cash John ran to use the cash machine at Michaelwood when I would normally have jumped in the car and driven to Yate. To hand over the notes, phone and mail to my job share partner, I usually meet her in a lay-by (both of us having driven there) but John willingly ran to Wickwar early one morning to deliver it.

In fact, we all rediscovered our legs! I always walk home from school on non-work days anyway but am not usually so organised to walk there in the mornings. Having made an extra effort through necessity, we all found that it was possible to arrive on time with no one being shouted at for dawdling! As I was walking back from school, I chatted with an old friend whom I haven't really had a conversation with for ages despite ‘seeing’ each other several times a week at the school gates. She asked me in for coffee and I didn't hesitate – normally I have so much planned that I am dashing off (in the car of course) and can't stop. Mindful of the need to preserve my fuel to get to work I didn't plan to do anything that wasn't house based and so I was in no rush (and guess what – it was lovely!)

That same day whilst going up to school to collect the children I walked with another friend who only lives around the corner but, again, it is a long time since I have had a chat with her.

For obvious reasons the children's usual after school activities in Thornbury and Dursley were not possible so instead they had friends to tea whom we then walked home afterwards.

When I did use the car for work, we were encouraged through a notice board to share lifts and I discovered that a lady with whom I have worked for nearly a year lives in the next street! (I didn't even know she lived in Charfield!)

Although I was strictly against panic buying, I did just check my cupboards to see what I had in or could do with more of … and I found out that, like most people, we could comfortably last out a lengthy siege! The result is that we have had some store cupboard meals in the last few weeks and as an added bonus my grocery bill has gone down!

There have been other benefits too! My friend, Sue and I realised that you don't have to drive out of Charfield to have a good value pub lunch and another friend offered a rather independent elderly neighbour a lift in to Wotton which was gratefully accepted and another friendship was renewed.

When fuel was available at Charfield petrol station, I queued with everyone else and I have nothing but praise for Mike Cheskin and his staff for their fair handling of their customers. The sight of Mike patrolling the queue of cars in the driving rain with water pouring off his hat brim will stay with me for a long time!

I would like to report that I have since thrown away my car keys, do my shopping once a month and walk to school in all weathers. I am sorry that I can't say this but those few days of the fuel crisis did give me food for thought and made me a better person for a short while. How did you get on?

Tracy Francksen.

Youth Cricket 2001 – Help Needed!

Charfield C.C. has consistently provided young cricketers opportunities to play in the Bristol and District Youth league. Following two highly successful seasons for our Under 15 and Under 13 teams the committee are looking to make the most of the interest, talent and enthusiasm shown. We need one or two more adults to become involved with our youth teams, in particular to help run the Under 13 Side during the 2001 season. The current manager will be running the Under 15 side next season. The club provides support in the way of kit, transport and umpiring and nets 4sessions are organised both winter and summer.

If you can spare a few hours, enjoy, or have enjoyed cricket, or if you have a budding Botham bowling in your back garden, please contact any of the following committee members:

Roger Newman (Youth Team Manager) 01454 26xxxx
Adrian Nash (Youth Team Manager) 01454 26xxxx
Rod Alexander (Club Chairman) 01453 84xxxx
Diane Bradley (Club Secretary) 01453 84xxxx

Any youngsters who might like to play at Under 17, Under 15 or Under 13 level next season please get in touch.

Well the sun certainly shone down on July 15th and pulled in the crowds at the Annual Village Fayre. It was a great success and my thanks to all those people that helped on the day either behind the scenes or out on the stalls. It was a great family occasion and one that I personally would like to see happen again next year. The total profits from the Village Fayre Committee were £2,541.74 plus profits from the Memorial Hall bar which were approximately £700, making a total of £3,200. WELL DONE. With the profits we are looking to buy a Bouncy Castle that can be used at the Memorial Hall for parties, or hired out.

Profits made by various groups within the village

• Rainbows – face painting – £31
• 2nd Charfield brownies – cake stall – £41.10
• Tennis Club – ice cream & lollies – £70
• Malcolm Thomas – skittles – £43
• WI – teas & coffees – £124.21
• Cricket Club – coconut shy – £36
• Train Rides – £43.40
• Junior Football Club – £80.20
• Football Club – BBQ – £287
• Parent & Toddler – Bouncy castle – £49.36
• Playgroup – Teddy Bears picnic & badge making £45.15

Many thanks to all those who donated their profit to the Memorial Hall Committee.

The same committee will be arranging next years Village Fayre that will be on Saturday 14th July 2001 and will be the 40th Annual Village Fayre and Sports Day in Charfield. We are looking for any old programs or photographs that people may have, so we could display them, but also so we could see what was around to entertain us forty years ago. We would also like to invite people back to the village that have since moved away. Is there anyone out there that would be interested in co-ordinating such a mammoth task? Please give me a call.

We would also like to receive any constructive criticism regarding this year's village fayre and also any ideas for next year. We are determined that next year will be better, so please call with offers of help or ideas.

Janice Vardon-Smith, 01454 26xxxx

[Advert for Cotswold Edge Carpets]

The CHADRA treasurer, Barbara Adams, would like to extend her heartfelt thanks to all 5the CHADRA distributors that have returned their payment slips. It has made her life so much easier, please keep up the excellent work.

Another year, another playgroup committee. My fears of being in the vicinity as the committee was being chosen proved to be well founded and so I find myself here at my desk penning these words. I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself and the other new committee members:

Chairperson Matthew Fuller
Vice Chairperson James Holt
Treasurer Tracy Trevelyan
Secretary Janice Brett
Admissions Karen Tranter
Line Manager Nicky Wade
Helpers Sue Pestell, Jill Hawkins, Mike Tranter, Emma Chappell
Playleaders Sally Griffiths, Sue Bird, Abigail Walker.

For those of you that don't know, Charfield playgroup runs sessions for pre-school children (from 3–upwards) from 9:15 to 12:00, Tuesday to Friday behind the chapel next to the Plough Inn.

Due to increasing numbers we have added a Friday morning session (hence our extra Playgroup leader Abigail Walker). Tuesday and Thursday mornings are already full, but a few spaces are still available on Wednesdays and Fridays. Any enquiries about taking these remaining spaces (or future years!) should be made to Karen Tranter Tel. 01453 84xxxx.

We have two forthcoming fundraising events. The Christmas Bazaar will be held on 24th November 2–4pm, at Playgroup in the Chapel School rooms. Our Christmas Float music and lights extravaganza will be coming round as usual sometime in December. Any support given is appreciated.

As usual we are holding a Christmas Party on 15th December for the playgroup children and it is hoped that a special visitor may put in an appearance, reindeer allowing.

Janice Brett, Secretary

[Advert for The Body Shop Direct]

[Advert for Greenline Tanks]

[Advert for Falcon Cottage B&B]

6

Puzzle Page

7[Advert for D and E Foods]

8[Advert for Alan Hamer driving]

[Advert for Bradley Garage]

[Advert for Charfield Post Office]

An Invitation!

On Sunday 19th November at 5 p.m. there is to be a ‘Millennium Songs of Praise’ at St. John's to which everyone is invited. This will be an opportunity for Charfield people to gather together in their parish church.

The intention is to have a good ‘sing song’ with both traditional and modern favourites. We hope that the service will be recorded in some form. The former Archdeacon of Cheltenham, the Venerable John Lewis, will be joining us and during the service he will dedicate the new altar frontals and kneelers. St. John's has received a number of donations in memory of people who have died recently and through this generous support we have been able to make some new altar frontals for the church. The names of those people remembered will be included in the prayers during the service.

The Hymns and Songs that will be sung will largely depend upon you, as we are going to be collecting suggestions in the weeks leading up to the service. The final opportunity to state your choice will be on Saturday 18th November which is also the Church's Gift Day. The Church will be open from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. with displays and refreshments and we hope that you will be able to pop in for at least a brief visit.

I am well aware that, for a variety of reasons, there are many people in Charfield who do not come to church or who do so only rarely. It is, however, your parish church and we would be poorer as a community if it were not there, as well as the group of dedicated people who maintain it.

Despite rumours that the church is wealthy with rich resources to draw upon (largely untrue!), local parish churches have to be self-financing.

St. John's has no generous legacy or savings to fall back upon. Over the last few years we have struggled to pay our way and there is the strong possibility of some expensive repairs in an awaited architect's report. The Gift Day is intended to provide an opportunity, for those who wish to, to make an offering towards the church and I do hope you will seriously 9consider making a contribution. The church, both the building and the people, does make a considerable contribution to the life of the community and I hope you will be able to share with us in this important weekend.

At this very busy time of the year as we approach Advent and Christmas I hope that you will have the opportunity to reflect upon the mystery and wonder of the gospel message. The Good News is that God came to be with us and he is still with us if we only welcome him into our lives.

Jesus tells us, ‘I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full’.

May you experience the joy and happiness of the fullness of Christ in your life.

Major Services and Events:-
Sunday 29th October – 10.30 a.m. United ‘Cluster’ Service at Holy Trinity, Wickwar. (no service at St. John's)
Thursday 2nd November (All Soul's Day) – 7.30 p.m. A Service to remember all those who have died recently and all our loved ones.
Sunday 12th November – 10.55 a.m. Village Service of Remembrance
Saturday 18th November – 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Church Gift Day
Sunday 19th November – 5 p.m. Millennium Songs of Praise
Sunday 10th December – 9.30 a.m. Annual Christingle Service
Sunday 17th December – 3 p.m. Annual Carol Service
Saturday 23rd December – 7 p.m. Torchlight Procession and Carols by Candlelight – St. James, Churchend.
Sunday 24th December – 3 p.m. Carols around the Crib 11.30 p.m. Mid-night Mass
Monday 25th December – 9.30 a.m. Christmas Family Communion

Revd. Robert Pestell, Priest-in-Charge.

Help! – The Blood Doning Service needs a new local organiser.

Is there anyone reading this who can spare a few hours four times a year? Maybe, like me, you are no longer able to give blood, or perhaps you, or someone in your family, has needed blood so you really understand just how important the service is. I'm not able to do it anymore, but will happily see a new organiser through their first season.

It's a pleasant, but not hugely demanding job – a few posters to distribute, tea helpers to organise and then to welcome donors as they arrive. There are four sessions a year, usually on a Friday afternoon and early evening.

If you think you may be able to help, or would like to know more, please contact me – Barbara Adams – on 01454 26xxxx.

I am sure there are many people in the village who, like us, highly value the help of the Transport Scheme, very ably organised by Marion Smith (and previously by Mrs Blower).

Thanks you Marion, and also to your helpful band of voluntary drivers, who give up their valuable time. Not all villages operate such a scheme.

Thanks to the Parish Council for its grant to the Scheme, also to the Luncheon Club Christmas Draw. It in an excellent project and long may it continue.

Sincere thanks

R & O Perry

Fit and Funky for children has been a great success at the Charfield Memorial Hall. The class takes place each Tuesday from 4.15–5.15 p.m. This is an aerobic dance class where the instructor teaches safe and effective dance style routines by breaking down her choreography and making it easy for everyone to learn and enjoy. It is for children age 7–13 years and the classes run as 5-week courses at a cost of £12.50.

The adult classes have also been very popular. The classes are lively, fun and easy to learn. You are able to work at your own pace, whether you are super fit or starting out. Whatever stage you're at you'll have great fun.

There are now two classes at the Memorial Hall.

10Tuesdays 6.15–7.15 p.m.
Thursdays 7.15–8.15 p.m. except the following dates Oct 19th, Nov 9th, Dec 14th and Jan 11th (WI have the hall on these dates)

The costs of the classes are £12.50 per 5-week course (£2.50 per session) but if you do the Thursday class as well you can do that class for £2.00 per session.

For information please contact Jayne Brown – 01454 85xxxx.

Back by popular demand

The children's discos were originally started by the Village Fayre Committee to raise money towards the Sports day in July of this year. But they have proved to be such a great success that the committee will carry on running them to raise funds for next year's Village Fayre.

The next junior discos will be on Friday 10th November and Friday 8th December at the Memorial Hall from 6.30–9 p.m. They are for children aged 6–11 years. Refreshments available. Tickets £2.00 in advance, £2.50 on the door. Limited tickets available. Contact Janice Vardon-Smith, 01454 26xxxx

We have a large number of teenagers in the village that have expressed an interest in having discos for their own age group. For this though, we would need parent volunteers, both male and female to help out on the evening and to ensure that the evening goes well without any problems. Please contact Janice, 01454 26xxxx to volunteer. We will need at least 10 adults.

Janice Vardon-Smith

Is there anyone in the village or surrounding areas who would be interested in forming a reptile club?

After the positive response we received at the summer fayre, we are considering introducing a reptile club to the area. Everyone would be welcome, whether you actually own reptiles or are just interested in them. Obviously formation of such a group will depend on how many people are interested.

If you think you would be interested, please contact me, and hopefully we can get a fun and informative club together.

Tracy White, 01454 26xxxx

I would like to welcome the new children and parents to Charfield Primary School. The AGM was held on Thursday the 28th September 2000 and seven Committee Members were elected.

Sarah Tyler, the outgoing Chairperson was thanked for all her hard work over the last two years, as well as all the committee members and helpers.

The former PTA has been renamed Friends of Charfield Primary School to widen its appeal in the local community. Members of the Association can be past as well as present parent of children at the school.

Forthcoming events are:
Friday, 3rd November 2000 – Bonfire and fireworks display – gates open 5.30p.m.

Please come along to support the event, but remember, for safety, do not bring along your own fireworks or sparkler.

Saturday, 9th December 2000 – Family disco and live band with food provided at the village hall.

Other events to be confirmed are a Christmas Fair and Christmas family disco.

More Committee members are still required, the Vice Chairman's and Secretary's post are still to be filled.

Volunteers / helpers are required at fund raising events. This will not take up too much time, but will help support our school, if you feel that you could spare an hour or so every now and then, please let me know.

Graham Pedley, Chairman – 01454 26xxxx

11[Advert for Eclipse Hair Studio]

[Advert for Surround Sounds]

[Advert for Flowers Forever]

The next meeting Charfield Neighbourhood Watch contacts will be held on Monday 13th November, Sportsman's Bar of the Village Hall.

Although primarily held for contacts all are welcome. You would be particularly welcome if you live in Woodlands Road. Even if you cannot volunteer to be coordinator for this area, maybe you have some ideas how things could be managed in the future. Without participation of the residents, Woodlands Road will stop being a Neighbourhood Watch area. Signs will have to come down and NW membership on insurance policies deleted. There are also lengthy procedures to go through to re-establish a NW area. So please come and have your say.

Though generally quiet some incidents have occurred. Please do not let anyone into your house however plausible or reasonable the excuse seems to be.

The police continue to warn of thefts of items from cars and vans. If at all possible to not keep tools etc in unattended vans. I was also listening to the local radio where they were describing how easy it was to get into sheds because most hinges were screwed from the outside.

The Crime Reduction Department is slowly moving into the 21st century. We are now being offered e-mail messages. I hope to get information by the next meeting.

Hope to see you on the 13th of November.

Ilze Hicks

More tips and suggestions –
You are what you eat!

Today we are all eating so many processed foods and insufficient fruits and vegetables (the minimum we need is 5 a day) that it is hardly surprising that our health is not always what it should be. Unfortunately, the human body does not always react quickly to poor diets – if it did, many more people would look more closely at what they ate.

12Unfortunately, sugar is one of the biggest culprits and is hidden in so many foods, both sweet and savoury, as it is cheap and can add flavour to highly processed foods. Sugar is something most of us crave from time to time but it is a vicious circle as sugar makes our bodies crave more sugar. No one needs sugar as sugar unless on medical advice, but what our bodies do need is plenty of complex carbohydrates such as bread, pasta, potatoes and rice. These will make all the sugar your body needs along with other essential nutrients. It is frightening the amount of sugar that young people consume to the detriment of other foods. Did you know that the average fizzy drink contains between 6–8 teaspoons of sugar?

Some of the following symptoms can be due to sugar sensitivity, which can be helped by changing your eating habits and lifestyle or complementary therapy.
Rarely awake within 20 minutes of rising?
Energy slumps after eating or in the day?
Do you ever fib about the amount of sweet food eaten or keep sweet food close at hand?
Do you find it hard to concentrate or have mood swings?
These are just a few of the many symptoms.

On a different note, colds and coughs can often lead to laryngitis at this time of the year (if you get lots are you getting your 5 a day or are you under stress?)
Some aromatherapy oils, such as sandalwood, lemon or frankincense, can be helpful as well as gargling with cider vinegar diluted with warm water.

A happy healthy Autumn.

In the last edition we offered CHADRA's old dot matrix printer (Star LC 24-100) to any village organisation that would like it. As we still have the printer we are now offering it to anyone who would like to come and collect it. Give us a ring first to check availability!

Geoff & Hilary – 01454 26xxxx

[Advert for Harlequin Therapy Equipment]

[Advert for Martin Farrell Garden Designs]

[Advert for Deborah Jayne Pringle]

13

Puzzle Page Answers

14[Advert for Tree Top Carpets]

[Advert for Martingales]

[Advert for Pat Jeanes reflexology]

The season is now just over a month old and the games have not been coming thick and fast. First we had the petrol blockades disrupting fixtures with players unable to travel, then the first team drew a bye in the first round of the County Cup competition which meant the weekend of the 7th Oct was also idle. The first team have played three matches so far and won them all, the first game of the season was in the first round of the other cup competition we play in – the Stroud Charity cup, where we are the current holders – which resulted in a 4–1 win. The other two fixtures were Stroud League Division 1 games, which were won 1–0 and 3–1. All in all, a pretty good start to the season.

The reserves had a slightly shaky start to life in a higher division. Like the first team, their first game was in their section of the Stroud Charity cup which was lost 3–1. This was followed by the first league game, which was also lost 2–0. Then came a change of fortune, two more league games have been played, both of which were won, 4–2 and 3–1. Lets hope this improvement continues.

We are currently training at Yate Outdoor Sports Complex on Tuesday evenings. If anyone is new to the village and is interested in playing football, give me a ring on 01454 26xxxx or come over to the playing field on Saturday afternoons. Any spectator support is always welcome, so if you want to see a good game of football for free you know where to come.

PS the bar is always open after the game!

Chris Somerton, Secretary, Charfield FC.

Did you know that our keep-fit club has been meeting every Tuesday in the hall for over 30 years? Who says there is no life in the village hall, certainly not us leaping and twirling around each week.

The present club is not large and we range in age from 30–70 years. We don't do aerobics. We don't try to change our body shape – time and gravity have done that for us. Our aim is to enjoy our hour of gentle stretching and toning 15movements and go home feeling refreshed and a little virtuous because we've done some exercise.

We always have room for new members. So any ladies who want to come along Tuesday 10–11 a.m. to meet us and see what we get up to would be very welcome.

Feel free to watch us ‘work out’. Or watch us ‘line dancing’ and wonder how we manage to forget the steps once again. Then share our excitement as we remember the steps and finish the dance together, all facing the same way.

If you are dreading the winter months with nothing to do, come and join us. At least then you know every Tuesday you have somewhere to go, to enjoy a sociable hour of gentle movement and some dance. And always remember, in our keep-fit club you do as much or as little as you feel capable of doing. Our only rule is to enjoy the hour.

Christine Parfitt.

Local Plan

The most important news this month is that South Gloucestershire Council has published the Local Plan Deposit Draft. It is on deposit from 29th September to 10th November. It can be seen at the Council offices, Thornbury; at the One Stop Shop, Yate; and at all South Gloucestershire libraries and on the mobile library. If you want your own copy, residents of South Gloucestershire can buy one for £10 at Thornbury or Yate. All representations (support or objection) must be made by 10th November.

The Local Plan is very important because it will guide the pattern of development for the next few years. I haven't the space to tell you all the effects on Charfield, but you may be interested to know that there are no proposals for major housing development in or around the village. There is a proposal to safeguard land at the former Charfield Station and coal yard for a passenger station and station car park.

If you support or object to any policy or proposal in the Draft Local Plan, you should fill in a comment form and send it to South Gloucestershire Council. Representations of support may be just as important as objections. Remember that South Gloucestershire may make changes to the Draft to meet objections, particularly if there are no balancing representations of support. When they have considered the objections, they may publish a Revised Deposit Draft. At that stage people can comment on the changes, but not on the unchanged parts of the Plan. So it is vital that you make your views known now. Charfield Parish Council will be considering its response to the Plan at a special meeting at 7.30pm on Tuesday 7th November in the Sportsman's Lounge at the Memorial Hall. As with all Council Meetings, the public can come and tell us their views before we start the discussion.

Eventually, possibly early in 2002, there will be a public inquiry into objections to the Plan. It could be a long one!

Minerals and Waste Local Plan

Minerals and waste are covered in a separate Local Plan. This is at a more advanced stage than the Local Plan that I've mentioned above. The Parish Council has submitted a formal objection because of the way the Revised Draft deals with the possible extension of Wickwar Quarry. The basis of the objection is quite complicated, but the simple aim is to protect Churchend and the people who live there. The Parish Council has decided not to participate in the public inquiry, expected in February 2001. It will rely on the written objection. Any local resident who would like more information about the objection should contact the Parish Council Clerk or me.

Traffic Calming

At the time of writing, it looks as if the new traffic calming scheme is reaching completion. Lighting is still needed on some of the bollards, and the speed detection and warning sign has yet to appear. Some of you will have seen my letter in The Gazette of Friday 22 September (and David Woodhouse's alongside it). I know that people are sceptical about the effectiveness of the scheme, but we should give it a fair trial. If it doesn't work, we shall have to lobby South Gloucestershire Council 16for improvements. My personal view is that the new type of digital speed enforcement cameras could be considered.

Skateboard Ramp

Based on ideas put forward by skateboarders, we contacted various manufacturers about a possible layout for equipment. When taking into account the safety requirements, it seems that the available area is not big enough for all the desirable equipment. Should we cut some of it out? We would like to talk this through with the skateboarders and everyone else who is interested in the project. Please come to the Sportsman's Lounge at 7pm on Friday 3rd November. You needn't stay long if you are going on to more entertaining activities!

Old Station Yard

Have you any photographs of the Old Station Yard, taken between 1990 and 2000? The area that we are interested in is the triangle of land which I can roughly describe as from the Station House down towards the coal arches. It is likely that a public inquiry will decide, amongst other things, what the planning use of this land is. Photographs could help the inquiry come to the right decision. If you have any, please contact me or the Clerk, Mrs Holmes.

John E Acton
Chairman, Charfield Parish Council

The club currently competes at under 16's, under 13's and under 12's in the Stroud and District Youth League and under 9 in the Mid-Gloucestershire Mini League. An under 18's team has also been formed and has begun playing friendlies.

Home games for the under 8's and 9's are played on Saturdays at Charfield Primary School. All other teams play on Sundays at the Memorial Hall and training takes place for the under 12's and 13's on a Saturday morning.

At present 70 boys are involved and new players are always warmly welcomed.

The season kicked off at the beginning of September and up to October 9th the club has won sixteen of its twenty-five competitive matches, with the under 16's still maintaining a 100% record in all competitions.

Finally, the club would like to thank both the Village Hall Committee and Parish Council for donating monies towards pitch drainage and first aid kits.

Jeremy Lewis

My running season is now over having clocked 2 hours 11 minutes in the Bristol Half Marathon, raising about £100 for the South West Children's Hospice and being lapped by the Kenyans in the process! I have put my entry in for the London Marathon next year (I must be mad) and am investigating a charity to run for again. My final total raised for the Children's Wish Charity from this year's London Marathon was £2581 which I was absolutely delighted with, so thank you once again to all those who sponsored me. So expect to see a strangely-clad figure running around the village in the winter months!

Round Table is preparing for the annual Firework display, which will be held on Saturday 4th November at the new Blue Coat School, Wotton-Under-Edge. This new central venue should attract a good attendance if the weather is reasonable. I would like to pass on Table's thanks to Tom Redman and his family at Coombe for their support and kind use of their field in previous years. Tickets are £2.50 for single and £9 for a family, which represents good value. They are available at the Post Office and Happy Shopper with the proceeds going back into the local community. I hope that some of you will come and also attend Charfield school's display, as I will.

Last month saw the very sad passing of one of our Founder Members and local dynamo Terry Jarvis. Our thoughts are with his widow Beryl and family. Rest in peace, Terry.

This year has been busy but very enjoyable for Table since our hosting of a successful European Meeting of Round Tables in June, with speakers on Calcutta and motivation, 17playing boule and trying out a health club – I spent most of the evening on the treadmill!

We have been getting some more guests coming along lately so why not come along to a meeting to see what we are like and what we get up to? Contact me on 01453 84xxxx for a chat.

John Francksen

We look forward to a busy time for the children with activities for Halloween, Bonfire night and of course Christmas. Join us at Charfield Memorial Hall 10am–12pm every Monday. There is always a lot to do and play with and it is a good opportunity to make new friends for adults and children alike.

This is the time of year, that, as childminders, we try to do our fundraising to pay for the children's popular Christmas parties and presents from father Christmas, we also hope to have some to spare for more craft items and to replace toys that have seen better days.

The photographer had several busy hours on the 7th October, we hope everyone will be pleased with the results. We again have Early learning and Woolworth catalogues available from dab hands or any childminder. We will place regular orders for you, large or small, and deliver to your door, under cover of darkness if necessary!

If you require registered childcare in the village please contact Lin on 01454 26xxxx who deals with any vacancy requirements and we will do our best to help.

Lin Scanlon

An Out of School Club for Charfield

You may recall, in the spring edition of CHADRA, an article about the “Foundation Room” which is situated in the grounds of Charfield School. For those of you who missed it, in brief, the building is owned by the Charfield National School Foundation. It has fallen into a poor state of repair over the years, and is now mainly used on an ad hoc basis by the school.

Meanwhile, in February of this year, a survey of parents within the village, asking about “Out of School Care” organised with the help of Children's Playlink, showed a definite need for such a facility. The Foundation Room seemed the obvious place to run an “Out of School Club,” but how would funds be raised to cover the costs not only of refurbishing the interior, but more importantly of replacing the roof?

Following a meeting of interested parties in April, a Voluntary Management Committee for the proposed Charfield Out of School Club was formed. Our aim, which we hope is not too ambitious, is to open a Before and After School Club in the Foundation Room by September 2001. In addition, we aim to provide a Holiday Club which will also operate on school “in-service” days. Furthermore, three representatives from the Committee agreed to work in partnership with the Foundation Charity Governors to look at ways of raising the capital needed to replace the roof, because without this, the project will not be possible.

To date Revd Robert Pestell, who is Chair of the Charfield National School Foundation, has made various speculative appeals to Charitable Trusts for help with the cost of replacing the roof. He also has several grant applications in the pipeline. If you are aware of any sources of funding to whom an approach may be worthwhile please let Robert know as soon as possible. He can be contacted on 01454 26xxxx, and will be delighted to hear from you.

The Out of School Club Committee has worked long and hard putting together an application to the New Opportunities Fund. This is Lottery money, which has been made available specifically to make grants to organisations wishing to provide Out of School Childcare. It provides the first year's running costs and start up costs such as rent, insurance and equipment. It is also possible to request help with refurbishment costs, which we consider makes it an ideal pot of money from which to make a claim. As I write, the application is winging its way to Newcastle for consideration and the whole Committee has the uncomfortable task of keeping everything 18crossed until February 2001 when the decision will be made!

The Committee has worked closely with Joy Davis of Playlink to whom we are indebted for faithfully attending our monthly meetings, offering help, advice and guidance. We have also been in regular contact with Revd Pestell in his role as Chair of the Charfield National Foundation Charity and we would like to extend our gratitude to him for his time, help and co-operation willingly given, despite the many other calls on his time as Parish Priest and School Governor. Robert always makes time for us and we are all too aware that his support is key to the success of this project.

We believe that if this proposal is successful, not only will it provide a much needed facility within the village for working parents, but it will also result in another community venue which will be a potential benefit to everyone in Charfield. It will give the children who use it a safe, fun, relaxing yet stimulating place to be after school and it will create possible employment opportunities for people within the village who would like to work with children.

Watch this space for future developments. If you are interested in helping – in ANY way, or would like to find out more, please contact the following members of the Voluntary Management Committee: Helen Burns, Vice-Chair on 01454 26xxxx or Julie Macnamara, Secretary, on 01453 52xxxx.

Julie Macnamara.

[Advert for Kingswood Playgroup & Toddlers]

[Advert for M A K Services]

[Advert for Worktwice Computer Repair Centre]

Crime in Charfield has remained at a low level during the past few months: notable exceptions being two commercial burglaries and a domestic burglary. These were all professionally executed and in at least two of the instances the offenders appear to have had an inside knowledge of the premises.

Although vehicle crime is currently at a very low level the village was subjected to a spate of it during the early summer. However, with the help of local residents, two suspects were arrested and convictions secured. One of the offenders, a local youth, is now serving a custodial sentence.

19On a more mundane note, but no less important, I'd like to mention the traffic congestion in the vicinity of Charfield Junior School between 3.00 p.m. and 3.30 p.m. on weekdays.

No doubt many of you will have seen me giving attention to this matter and in particular advising drivers not to park on the pavement. However, the problem cannot be alleviated unless parents, many of whom live only a short distance from the school, make a conscious effort not to use their cars.

The traffic congestion at school closing time poses a far greater danger to the children than, for instance, the risk of abduction, about which so many parents appear to be concerned.

Indeed, whilst the UK has one of the best road safety records in Europe it has one of the worst in respect of child casualties, due in a large part to the traffic congestion during the ‘school run’.

It was apparent during the recent fuel shortage that the normal ‘school run’ congestion in Charfield was greatly reduced, so clearly it can be achieved without too much difficulty. So, if you don't need to use the car please don't, and make the environment that much safer for your children and others.

Finally, if anyone wishes to raise any issues with me I will be present at the Neighbourhood Watch meeting in the Memorial Hall at 7.30 p.m. on Monday 13th November.

PC 3799 Jones

The local branch of the University of the Third Age is fast becoming one of the most popular and successful organisations in the area. Formed three years ago, it now has almost three hundred members coming not only from Thornbury and the outlying villages, but from Wotton Under Edge, Berkeley, Bradley Stoke, Filton, Coalpit Heath, Winterbourne etc. It runs 22 different groups, some quite intellectually challenging (in a very friendly and non-threatening manner), others catering for a range of specific and recreational interests.

The title U3A is probably misleading. No qualifications are required in order to become a member and there are no examinations to take or degrees awarded! The aim is simply to bring together people with similar interests and those who wish to find out more about a particular subject. You don't have to be over 60 or even over 50 to belong, but as most of the groups meet on weekdays during the day, it could be difficult for those in full time employment to attend. Annual membership is £6 (£10 for 2 people at the same address) which enables members to join as many groups as they choose.

To mention just two of Novembers events: the science and technology forum meet on Thursday 16th November at 10.30 a.m. at the Chantry, Thornbury for a talk on beam engines, and the AGM will take place on Thursday 23rd November at 10.30 a.m. in the Methodist Hall in Thornbury. Following the meeting at approximately 11.00 a.m. anyone (member or non-member) is welcome to meet group leaders and discuss activities, etc.

Further details can also be obtained from the group co-ordinator Joy Davey 01454 61xxxx.

Lesley Hellen

Remarks made by the Memorial Hall. What an article to write calling people morons and idiots, isn't it about time that the hall did more for the village youngster and not to have negative thoughts about them?

It's only a few youngsters that spoil it for the rest. The trouble is we know who you are, don't we lads. Maybe we should name and shame?

Message for parents that let their kids out until 10 o'clock at night – don't you ever think about what they are up to?

As for the Spring Clean Up there are lots of village people that have said they would help on the day but didn't know about it, like myself. Where were the posters around the village to let us all know?

We would like to know if all the Memorial members feel the same way as the person that 20wrote the article in no 99. It would be sad if you do. I look forward to seeing the next CHADRA.

As for the graffiti, well what can I say. You should be doing more for the kids in the village – you are the village committee for the hall.

From parents of Longs View, New Street, Farm Lees, Little Bristol & Woodlands.

… and Allan replies

I have just had the opportunity to read the above, prior to publication of the newsletter. It pleases me that, finally, someone has seen fit to respond to a newsletter item – all so often the silence is resounding.

Yes, in issue 99, I did voice negative thoughts – I admitted as much at the time. On other occasions I have written positively but with no response, so it would appear that negative vibes get through!

As ever, I will end with my name and telephone number – if any of the concerned parents wish to pursue the dialogue they know how to contact me.

Allan Hughes 01454 26xxxx

As we have reached issue 101 of the CHADRA newsletter we thought it would be interesting to look back at issue number 1 ….

Issued Autumn 1975

• St John's Church was in danger of closing down
• Phone numbers only had 4 digits
• There was a baby sitting circle with 45 members
• There was an article from the Bingo Club that had been going for 10 years, formed to raise money to build the Memorial Hall

Other contributions included Young Wives, Drama, Chess, Badminton, WRVS and WI British Legion.

There was also a project called the village study. This was looking at the history and nature of the village. Does anyone have a copy that could be serialised in future editions?

[Advert for Barbara Ealey]

Although details are still to be finalised, the following events are in planning

Port & Cheese tasting, Friday 10 November – Martin Coleman, the proprietor of Amphora Wines in Wotton, has a presented a series of tasting evenings over the last few years ranging from all types of wines to beers and Whiskeys. This time he is repeating his very successful (and tasty!) Port and Cheese Evening, bringing as he does a wide variety of both to sample.

What Martin doesn't know about wines isn't worth knowing and he passes on this knowledge in a very enthusiastic and entertaining way. Why not come along and find out more about the subject and have fun at the same time. Tickets (£7.50 each) will be limited and special provision is being made for those doing the driving. With entry at only £3 each they can still sample the cheeses, washed 21down with a soft drink and still enjoy themselves!

With Christmas coming all too quickly this evening could help you plan the all important dinner and possibly the odd present or two!

Casino Night, Friday 24 November – Following on from the success of our two previous Casino Nights, the Thornbury Lions have once again been booked for an evening of gambling and hilarity; this time in the village hall at Kingswood. It is all in good fun though as your ticket price covers you for ‘several hundreds of pounds worth’ of chips and there is a prize for the person who ends up with the greatest winnings. There will also be a bar available. Why not come along and see if Lady Luck is with you.

In addition to the above, the PTA is not standing still and is already looking into the New Year for a programme of events.

Watch out for news of the following:

Craft Fair – Preliminary discussions are proceeding about organising a large Craft Fair at the school in November next year. There is a perceived gap in the local area for such events and the aim is to attract the producers of good quality handicrafts from across the country. A must for your diaries as this will be an ideal opportunity to shop early for Christmas 2001! Watch out for more details.

And finally:

The PTA owns a large Marquee measuring 25ft × 14ft which is available for hire. Bookings can be taken by Margaret Clarke on 01454 26xxxx.

For further details on any of the above please feel free to contact Trevor Mason, PTA Chairman, on 01453 84xxxx

O.K folks – now cast your minds back three months. There's Lawrence and me at the computer, keying in my last article. After we'd finished typing, I said, “Right, put everything up on the screen so that I can check it through.” “You can't,” replied Lawrence, “It's gone.” “Gone?” I questioned. “Gone where?” “Well, to Hilary and Geoff's, of course.”

I know I've been making humble excuses about my inadequacies and managed to learn Spanish and French, but when it comes to technical stuff – well why can't I just do it. Children, from birth, nowadays seem to have computer skills in their genes. Take my new mobile phone. First day, charging it up, I put the wire in the earphones socket for 24 hours and wondered why I couldn't make any calls.

To all the technophobes who read this and think, “Oh just go to classes,” – well I just might.

My car had been playing up a bit but was hanging in there. A few Sunday's ago Lawrence had to be at Kingswood at 8.00 in the morning. A quick 15 minute trip, I thought. I quickly put on an old skimpy cotton skirt, a really tatty T-shirt and no upper under garment and a quick thought came to me to kick off my pink fluffy slippers and put my sandals on. Just as well as the car cruised to a stop, no flicker of life at the junction of Walk Mill Lane. I reclaimed Lawrence, we pushed the car to the side of the road and I proceeded to walk home.

It was an absolutely beautiful morning. Of course being so attired, or not as the case may be, every time a car came along I folded my arms, disguising my lack of support and sort of leant into the hedge. Anyway dear Wendy Holmes, who just happened to be passing, saved me from any further public embarrassment and brought me home. Keith was away in Kent and there is a moral to this story.

In the past few weeks I have received so many requests from charities from Save the Children, NSPCC, Cancer Research, St Dunstan's Homes, the PDSA and so on. We hear that the NHS is struggling on and cut backs have to be made in certain public sectors, so what I would like to know is, where is the big money pot kept that can be dipped into, to further fund that “…” Millennium Dome?

I'm going to gently insert into this piece an advertisement to let anyone know, who would like to book a wonderful, smiley faced young man to DJ their party – look no further. Phone Lawrence on 01454-26xxxx

22Finally, you know I like to keep you up to date with the playground snippets. A little girl came up to me, her shoulders shaking, sobbing intensely. “Oh, what's the matter” I asked. “Th. those girls said I was ugly,” she cried. “Oh, you're not,” I assured her, “you're beautiful.” “Yes,” she replied, “I know.” Aah!

Happy Autumn from Marilyn aka Maz.

Minister: Rev. Philip Hopes
A warm welcome awaits you at all of our services.

Sunday School. Sunday 11am.
Family Service 1st Sunday of each month at 11am.
Worship 3pm.
Ladies Bright Hour Alternate Tuesday's 2.30pm.
Bible Study and Prayer Friday's 2.30pm.
Group Practice 7.30pm.

On August 30th we had our Sunday School outing to Weston-Super-Mare, it was a day of relaxation on the beach with the young people, strolling along the front or visiting the shops. Thanks to Linda for organising a wonderful day-out.

October 1st we celebrated our Harvest Thanksgiving with Family Service at 11am. in which the young people of our Sunday School took part as well as bringing their gifts. A big Thank you to all our Sunday School for your contribution in the service and for your gifts, it was a wonderful service. At our 6pm. service we were joined by our friends from St. John's, Kingswood and Ebley with our group taking part in the service. Our ladies served refreshments following the service enabling people to fellowship together. It was a wonderful day of Praise and Thanksgiving. A big Thank-you to all who worked so hard to make the church so beautiful, for all your gifts and your participation during and after both services. Wasn't it great to see the church nearly full?

October 7th and approximately 40 of us assembled at Linda's home for our Harvest Supper. A big Thank-you to Linda and her team for making it such a wonderful evening, it was great to have the company of the young people from Sunday School sharing with us. Our group sang and played and Linda's dogs were not going to be left out of the celebrations either. Thanks again Linda.

Hey, it's nearly Christmas. You will find a great welcome on December 17th at our young people's Nativity Service 3pm., on December 24th at our Carol Service 3pm., and on December 31st our New Years Eve Service at 3pm.

On behalf of all the fellowship at Charfield Congregational Church I pray our Lord will bless you all with a Wonderful and Blessed Christmas.

Philip.

The final instalment of student bloopers.

France was in a very serious state. The French Revolutions was accomplished before it happened. During the Napoleonic Wars, the crowned heads of Europe were trembling in their shoes. Napoleon became ill will bladder problems and was unrestrained. He wanted an heir to inherit his power, but since Josephine was a baroness, she couldn't bear him any children.

The sun never set on the British Empire, because the British Empire is in the East and the sun sets in the West. Queen Victoria was the longest queen. Her death was the final event which ended her reign.

The nineteenth century was a time of many great inventions and thoughts. The invention of the steamboat caused a network of rivers to spring up. Samuel Morse invented a code of telepathy. Louis Pasteur discovered a cure for rabbis. Charles Darwin was a naturalist who wrote “The Organ of the Species.”

The first World War, caused by the assignation of the Arch-Duck by a surf, ushered in a new error in the anals of human history.

Wishing you all a great Christmas and a Happy New Year

23

Please make use of this diary. Either telephone or drop a note of any additions or modifications to Geoff or Hilary Wignall (01454 26xxxx, x Berkeley Close, or xxxx @ Breathemail.net)

KLB = Katharine Lady Berkeley School
FR = Foundation Room, Primary School
SH = Charfield School Hall
SL = Sportsman's Lounge, Memorial Hall
MH = Memorial Hall

Why not put this on your fridge door or notice board?

24

If you wish to alter the entries below, please telephone Geoff or Hilary on 01454 26xxxx

Transcriber Notes

This issue was produced on 24 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: 2017-01-30.