CHADRA

Tuesday 10 February, 2009 – 8 p.m.
xx Wotton Road, Charfield.

Agenda

1. Election of Committee
2. Appointment of Auditor
3. Amendments to the Constitution

We hold four committee meetings a year. If you are interested in joining the committee and becoming involved in the production of the Newsletter in any way, please come along to the meeting or contact any committee member (listed below).

Next Copy Date – 12th January 2009

3

Having edited the newsletter for 10 years now Geoff and I have decided that it is time for us to pass this on to someone else so that they can inject some new energy into the newsletter.

We are therefore looking for a volunteer who is prepared to give up a few hours each quarter to receive articles and contributions and put them into a format fit for Joan to print. If you are interested in taking on this role please call us on 01454 26xxxx. We will, of course, help out with your first couple of issues to ensure a smooth transition.

We look forward to hearing from you, Hilary

Provided, once again by Derek Leahy, this is the view looking across from New Street at the Chapel and The Plough Inn. Thanks very much Derek.

[Graphic: Charfield School]

An exciting time for me, as I begin my first academic year at Charfield Primary. Quite aptly our first SEAL Assembly was entitled ‘New Beginnings’. This struck a chord with me as we all begin our ‘tweaking’ of the school to move our school from Good to Outstanding.

What's New?
We began the year by making an adjustment to the start of the school day. Years 2–6 now start the day with ‘Wake Up Shake Up’. The change was warmly welcomed by the pupils and staff, as not only did it serve its purpose to begin the day with some physical activity, but the change also gave classes an extra 20 minutes in the first lesson. Vital minutes at a time when children learn best! Many thanks to parents for their support and suggestions to make this new regime more successful.

The second change was to our assembly at the end of the week. Our BOW WOW SOW assembly had grown in size and complexity over the years. So much so that school councillors said children thought it was too long! To address this we now have 3 different celebration assemblies to end a week. The first week will see us celebrating the achievements of pupils in clubs etc outside the school. The second focuses on achievements in the school (certificates, travel plan, LEAP). The third is a ‘Sharing assembly’. In this assembly children explain just what they have studied in their class and show us some examples of their work. We have created a ‘Brill Board’ in the foyer for this work to be displayed and we will also publish it on the school website.

Finally the year began with a change to the way we teach handwriting. We now teach cursive (joined) handwriting from the beginning. Our reasons for doing this were that studies showed that children using cursive handwriting were able to stay focussed for longer and cursive handwriting develops confidence and abilities in speeling.

Staff News – Terms 1 & 2
In August I sadly lost the only other male I had in the school! Mr DeClaire --> made the decision to hang up his Keys and begin a life of relaxation and gardening. We were all very sad to see him go. Pete was a superb caretaker who kept the school in great condition and played a huge part in supporting classes with swimming and trips. Thankfully he has decided to keep helping us with the latter (and he still puts up the occasional shelf too) We are in the process of finding his successor. This will be completed by mid October.

On the teacher front, September has been a little hectic! Firstly Mrs Rolfe will shortly begin her Maternity Leave, as will Miss Carroll. In addition Mrs Noall won't be returning until next September as she has landed herself a temporary job as a Numeracy Advisor for Bristol LEA. Mrs Noall is passionate about maths so I think it's her dream job!

This means there are going to be A LOT of teaching posts advertised soon. Keep an eye open in the school newsletter.

4Not everyone is taking a break though. The rest of the teachers are getting to know their new classes (and vice versa), including our new teacher. Miss Dennis joined us and has begun teaching her Reception class. She is making great progress with our new intake and I have received lots of positive comments about her. We now have a very strong team in the Early Years classes. Mrs Peer & Mrs Reynolds in Class 1 and Miss Dennis & Mrs Tyler in Class 2.

Events at Charfield Primary
I am really looking forward to the firework display night on Friday 7th November. I have met with Mrs England from our Friends and have been amazed at the detail they have gone into to make the event a success. I am sure most of the village will be there to do the obligatory Ooo's and Aahh's!

Another unique event that takes in the school is the parents lunch. This is an amazing event where parents from a year group / class come in to have lunch with their children. I have witnessed three of these events. They are always well supported and the children love it! A HUGE thank you to the kitchen and our SMSA's (Dinner Ladies) for holding these special events.

Charfield's Community Spirit
The whole school recently took a trip to St John's for our Harvest Festival. Parents made contributions of food and money for the event. The food was sold off at the end of the money we raised has been put towards sponsoring a child in the Gambia

Children from our school have taken part in a planting session with local councillors. Our school councillors met with their adult counterparts to plant flowers on the green opposite the school.

How can the school play a larger role in Village life? How could you play a larger part in the school's life? We would welcome ideas that would develop both! Contact the school if you have any thoughts.

Dafydd Lawday, Headteacher

(P.S – Did you find the ‘deliberate’ mistake?)

I would like to highlight the voluntary service of Mrs Marion Smith, co-ordinator of the housebound transport scheme. “Thank you Marion”.

I have of late needed to use the scheme on a regular basis of 3 times per week, but Marion has always obliged with arranging transport for me. “Thank you, again Marion”. The drivers, female and male, are always polite, helpful and friendly and I personally ‘chat for Charfield’!

If there is anyone new out there who would be willing and able to support the scheme Marion would be grateful – as she tries not to call on drivers more than once per week.

Finally, thanks to the Parish Council who subsidise this worthy and essential scheme.

Sincerely, Olwyn & Reg Perry

Thornbury FM is back on air for its seventh season, broadcasting on 87.7 FM from Monday 3rd through to Sunday 30th November. With over seventy presenters, there are programmes to suit every taste. Full details of the schedule are available on www.xxxx.org where you can also listen on-line. The radio station is keen to give publicity to local events, and to take dedications and celebrate all this is happening in our district. During the broadcast period, phone the studio on 01454 41xxxx, *txt* THORNBURY + msg to 07766 40xxxx or email xxxx @ xxxx.org.

Since my last report Andy Murray has continued to fulfil his promise and was unlucky to meet an “on fire” Federer in the US open … only a matter of time now!!

Since the last Chadra report we have been very busy, as you would expect coming into our peak time of the year: Below are some of the things that have happened or about to:

• 5Ladies Doubles T'ment Finals on July 13th saw 14 ladies drawn for partners. Some competitive tennis matches were played and enjoyed by all. The final took place on Sunday 7th July between Jake Barnes & Cathy Jowett against Judith Watkins & Gail Kemp. The winners were Jake & Cathy.
• A Men's Singles Tournament on the weekend of the 19th / 20th July and was a great success with some 16 men of the village showing that it's not only Rafa Nadal that has bulging biceps and a six pack!! In thrilling Final underdog Phil Barnes gave Ex Club Captain Gary Harvey a good battle but the smooth Mr Harvey had just too much power and class in the end to take the title.
• Family T'ment PRIMARY – This year, for the first time, pairs in the tournaments played a number of matches against other pairs in boxes with the top 2 from each box going through to the Quarter Finals. The Semi Finals and the Final were held at the Village Fete on 5th July. All of the matches were entertaining and well contested and the thrilling final saw Rita Wadsworth & Henry Jones beating Nigel & Sam Cloke. Thanks go to all of the players who entered and entertained and to Dorothy Chilton for umpiring the Final.
• Family T'ment SECONDARY – With 10 pairs entered, the top 4 pairs proceeded to the Quarter Finals culminating in a memorable and close Final between Tony & Chris Field & Nigel & Tom Watkins which saw Tony & Chris emerging as victors. Well done to all participants and helpers
• The Junior Ladder has been a great success and some good potential talent on show. The ladder stands as follows:

Looking ahead:

Saturday November 1st at The Cotswold Edge Golf Club the Tennis Club will be holding an exciting adult social event of ‘Frog Racing!!’ The night is to raise finds for the 2nd Court Project and will include A Ploughman's Supper and a number of races sponsored by local businesses such as Evergreen Computing, Safety Testing, Screen Garage (A38), The Railway Tavern and CLE Network

If you are interested in sponsoring a race or tickets to join in the fun, please contact Deb Pringle on 01454 26xxxx

Shopping Evening

Based on the success of last year's event, we will again be hosting a Shopping Evening on Tuesday 11th November from 6–9pm at The Memorial Hall where local businesses and crafts will be selling their wares. Stalls range from our own Christmas Toys & Gift Stall at unbelievably low prices, distinctive greeting cards and stationery, well known health & beauty products, handmade jewellery, mouth-watering local produce, hand crafted and unique Nepalese bags, cookware, candles, soft furnishings and still more stalls to be confirmed! (You can even book to have a taster Reflexology session in between shopping) – Should be a great evening. £2.50 entrance fee to include a glass of wine or fruit juice, a mince pie and a raffle ticket. All proceeds will go towards the 2nd Court Project.

We will also be taking our Christmas Toys & Gift Stall to the Wotton Charities Fair on Saturday 22nd November at The Civic Centre. Another fantastic event and a great way to support the work of a myriad of local charities. Hope to see you there!

Xmas Lunch.

Back by massive demand, is the event of the year!!

The lunch will be prepared by our local celebrity chef “Phil Barnes” who will hopefully be ably assisted by his Commis Chefs Colin Adams & Chris Riley (they look great in aprons!) and will be of the usual high standard that we have come to expect 6from chefs of their reputation. NB: As we cannot obtain a licence for that day, you are able to bring your own alcoholic drinks. Soft drinks will be available.

Your support will be greatly appreciated as all profits raised will go toward the 2nd Court Project to benefit us all.

Places will be for members first and foremost and are limited, on a first come first served basis, so please get your request for places in as soon as you see the call – But hurry as it sold out within a couple of weeks last year as demand is high! Proposed date for your diary is Sunday 21st December

Coaching continues, with sessions for children aged 3–13yrs. Adult coaching sessions are also running mid week. (Contact Jake Barnes for details – 07971 93xxxx)

We are also looking for couples to play in a Mixed Doubles Ladder that will take place throughout the Autumn & Winter – please contact Rita Wadsworth on 01454 26xxxx if you are interested

To update on our efforts to raise the challenging funds to begin work on our exciting, much needed, 2nd Court Project, I am pleased to say that we are off & running as we have been successful in receiving a grant of £2,500 from South Glos Council. Only another £37,500 to go!!

Do not hesitate to either contact myself or Jake if you are interested in joining or need any more information.

See you on court?
Chris Riley, Chairman, 07795 66xxxx

As the summer is now at an end, and the darker evenings are here, please bear in mind how your house appears in the early evening before you return home. Lamps on timer switches can take away the ‘empty’ look, which makes homes vulnerable. A radio on a timer switch can also give the impression that someone is home.

The darker evenings also make outbuildings and sheds more vulnerable, so now is the time to check that padlocks etc are in working order to protect stored gardening equipment.

Hallowe'en is approaching and this is traditionally a busy time for us, with numerous reports of anti social behaviour. Please be mindful of where your children are, and what they are up to, if they go out playing ‘trick or treat’. What may appear an amusing trick to a child can be upsetting for the elderly or vulnerable. We have a supply of notices for you to display in your window or door, if you do not wish youngsters to come to your house on Hallowe'en. These will be available soon for you to collect from garages and shops.

If you plan on playing ‘trick or treat’, please respect people's wishes if they have displayed one of these notices, and leave them in peace. They are not being ‘spoil sports’, it could simply be that young children are in bed, or that someone at the address is very ill. Whatever the reasons, these people do not want to be disturbed. It is advisable to only visit houses where the residents are expecting you to call.

We will be on patrol in the area on Hallowe'en, please call us if you have any concerns.

There has been a recent spate of distraction burglaries across the county. When at home, please keep doors and windows locked if at all possible. Remember, if you are answering a call at the front door, someone else could be sneaking in the back. Never feel obliged to allow anyone access to your home, even if the caller states they must carry out ‘urgent’ water mains work or similar. Put the chain on. Ask for identification. Genuine callers will not mind.

Never accept services offered at the door, such as driveway maintenance, guttering or roofing repairs, or gardening services. It is often the case that companies that use these ‘cold-calling’ practices are unregulated and have no respect for your rights as a consumer. Sometimes these callers charge over inflated prices, in some 7incidents, they are just trying to gain entry to your home to steal.

Please keep car keys and purses / wallets out of sight, and do not keep large amounts of cash in the house.

We can offer free crime prevention advice regarding your home security. Please contact us on the numbers below and we will arrange to visit you.

Lee Bainbridge PC1269
Sean McKinnon PCSO 7408
0117945xxxx

Welcome to the Parish Council bit! I'm sure, when I took over the chairmanship of the Council they told me there would only be a little bit extra work involved. How soft was I? Grin. Last newsletter I outlined several areas in which the Parish Council were actively involved and in this article I would like to update some of them.

I expect everyone is aware now that we have had good news on several Planning fronts. The two Applications from Wickwar Quarry have been dealt with; the coating plant by a compromise solution involving time and acoustic limitations, and the crusher by a withdrawal of Application by Cemex. Also, the Appeal against a Planning Refusal for the fourteen flats at the junction of Little Bristol Lane and Wotton Road was defeated. All three of these issues took a great deal of work, both by Councillors and other Parishioners who did an excellent job of protecting the village.

Of course nothing stands still. The site of the proposed flats is currently being leased as a contractors yard while work is undertaken on the tracks for Network Rail, but we are told the site should be cleared by late 2008 (and hopefully returned to grass sown top-soil?). And as I write the Application notice for the proposed extension of the Wickwar Quarry is on my desk. While we're on the subject of Planning Applications I wonder if you all know that such applications can be viewed online by going to http://xxxx.southglos.gov.uk/.

The Burial Ground project is coming to an interesting point, whereby nearly all the preparation has been completed prior to a Planning Application of our own. Perhaps by the time the newsletter goes out you will already have had a mail-shot from us. If not then let me tell you where we are in terms of design, and then when the mail-shot comes through your door you'll be aware of the reasoning behind it. A burial ground can take many forms, and although the Council may have an opinion, or more than one, it is the parishioners who should have the greater say in its design. What sort of burial ground do you want, Charfield? Traditional mowed lawn and headstones? “Green” meadow grass and minimal above ground memorials? A mix of the two? We will be seeking your opinion, as we did in 2007 when you told us you wanted a new burial ground. In the meantime, please give some thought to this matter – a matter one so often puts off.

The play area project is another area of Parish Council work where we would appreciate your thoughts. We are at the planning (small p) stage of preparing to replace the younger section of the play area – that's the wooden fence enclosed section in front of the Mound. This will be the first part of a strategic maintenance and replacement regime for the whole play area and, as the first part, is taking time to finesse. Designs are being provided by several play equipment suppliers but of course the costs are significant and as I write are approximately £35,000! We will be looking for funding & grants where we can, and working within our budgets to achieve a valuable young play space, before moving on to the next area. In the meantime we are, as ever, appreciative of any comments you may have, especially in terms of what you would like to see provided – for any part of the play area, for any age range.

I fear I must express a little sadness now though in regard to the Play Area. Looking out from my window it's always inspiring to see how much the play area and playing field are used – it's clearly such a valuable asset of the Parish. But so often I see the field – especially the area close to the blue hexagonal shelter and around the skateboard project – strewn with rubbish. I don't really know what to say here; there's 8certainly not a problem with over-filled bins … I would feel ashamed to throw my litter on the ground, and I don't know why people think it's an acceptable habit to do so. Alongside the petty vandalism and, recently, the deep ruts in the grass from bicycles and even motorbikes it takes some of the shine away from the place. It's not necessary, and I would ask all of you to consider that we get the village we deserve. It's our home and frankly we mostly all feel better for keeping it tidy. There, depressing bit over.

On a happier note members of the Council will be helping members of Charfield Primary School plant a selection of daffodil bulbs at the corner of Manor Lane and Wotton Road in October (may have happened by the time you read this of course). This is a further endeavour to enhance the section of land, which has already been cleared and has had a new notice-board (very well used!) with street map, new seat and new litter bin installed in recent months. Next spring the area should be awash with daffodils and, along with the re-shaped willow tree, should look spectacular. I wonder how Charfield would look with strategic planting and floral displays through the year? No plans yet, but something to think about?

I'll finish this time with a few reminders.

Firstly that you can get more information about the Parish Council, and what's happening in Charfield Parish, from www.charfieldparishcouncil.org.uk.

Secondly that charfieldburialground.org.uk will be going live toward the end of the year, so look out for that too. Finally, that the Council represents you, and your interests. It meets once a month at the Memorial Hall (dates advertised on the Parish notice-boards) and always has a Public Participation section where you can come and put your comments on pretty much any issue to the Council. Do come, even if it's only to watch and listen. Contact the Council via the Clerk, Sue Bailey, on 01453-51xxxx, or via the Parish web site.

Mark Rosher

As reported in the last issue the Cubs took part in their District camp down at Woodhouse Park, unfortunately it wasn't so well attended by other groups in the District. The Wild West themed camp opened up with line dancing on the Friday night all dressed as cowboys or indians of course. The next day we made tepees, totem poles, had war paint applied and finished the day with a camp fire, although this had to take part in our party tent without the fire as it was raining. Each group managed to perform a sketch and we all sang well. A few of our leaders and parents attending performed a quick summary of what we thought the ending of the final Dr Who episode would be and we weren't far out!

Our AGM this year was very well attended at Avening Green, we were lucky to have a very hot and sunny afternoon, we secured a few more members on our leadership team and to the Executive Committee which we are very grateful for.

A small number of Scouts took part in a week long camp at the Cleveland District Scout Camp at Kettleness just outside of Whitby. Our boys went to this converted railway station when they were Cubs and Scouts up in Cleveland, in fact Peter (Akela) went a couple of times on Lads and Dads camps and thoroughly enjoyed it so much that he had to go back. We visited the railway museum at York, the Yorvik centre, went on the North York Moors steam railway and enjoyed a visit to Flamingoland. We also had a couple of visits to the beach where dams and mini Stonehenges were built and of course we had to have the wonderful Whitby fish and chips. The Scouts had to produce a menu for the week and it was brilliant, all liked the food and we were absolutely stuffed at the end of each day, they did really well.

We have started a tradition within the Group that during the summer holidays all of the leaders and the Exec Committee and their families are invited to a one night sleep over at Avening Green. We have a BBQ, “pass the box” and “cross or uncross” the scissors (you have to join us to find out these 9games!) and retire to our tents not too late. This year we had quite a few staying over and one family that didn't, but left their tent. The next morning when they came to collect it they found it still up but it had been hoisted up the flagpole!

All of the sections have decided to meet at Avening Green until the end of October, so far they have been pretty lucky with the weather, the Scouts have held a back to basics weekend, which coincided with the bag pack at Morrisons so they were able to shop for their camp food at the same time. The Beavers enjoyed a ‘bring a friend night’ where they all made musical instruments and played outside games. The Cubs are working on their fitness challenge, lots of exercise and healthy eating involved on this one. Avening Green is a great place for these activities but I can't wait to get back to HQ and the warmth.

On the last weekend of September the Cubs had the chance to visit At-Bristol where they were provided with the history of science, a man in a lab coat showed the Cubs how explosions were made and set a rocket off, unbelievable and very loud! The centre has renewed some of it's exhibits so it's well worth a visit.

Up until Christmas 42 Cubs and Scouts are looking forward to PGL weekend at Tregoyd House in Wales, the older Beavers and new Cubs will be attending a sleepover at HQ, we will be catering and operating a stall at the Christmas Charities Fair at Wotton-Under-Edge and attending the Group Carol Service. Yet another busy but enjoyable term.

Yours in Scouting, Sandra Carnegie

As we approach the final quarter of 2008, it is very pleasing for me to report that the hall seems to be busier than ever. We have secured a number of new long term regular bookings from play groups to dance classes and the number of private bookings also seems to be increasing again after a natural lull over the summer. This is a reflection of the hard work of Steve Yeo, our Booking Secretary, who has worked tirelessly to promote the hall in both the local and wider communities. Unfortunately Steve has decided to resign asap for a number of reasons, and so we are now looking for someone to take over this important role. It requires 2 to 3 hours a week taking calls and managing bookings as the hall's first point of contact. Please contact me if you would be interested in taking on this role.

Despite the increase in bookings, finances continue to be tight and to help with this we have a number of fundraising events planned for the autumn. Firstly we have Charfield's very own Talent Contest on Friday 24th October. This features a variety of acts and will be judged by an expert panel including one of the South West's leading theatrical agents. Please come along for what promises to be a very entertaining evening. We also have Elvis back in the building, by popular demand, at the beginning of November. This is as part of another Casino Night on Saturday 8th November – another great night is promised. Finally, for this year, we have a theatrical extravaganza on Friday 28th November. This is a darkly comedic production (much like some hall committee meetings!) called “Funeral Games”. Again please come along and support your local hall as we diversify slightly in the entertainment we offer. Please see posters 10and flyers around the village, promoting these events, for more details.

As for the hall itself we have now completed the transformation of the Gents Toilets – which look great – and are working hard to secure further funds to improve both the heating, and hopefully lighting, in the main hall. The maintenance of the hall sometimes feels like painting the Forth Bridge but it is vital if we are to continue to secure the future of our village's only independent community facility.

Please continue to support the hall by attending our events and by looking to book the hall for your own functions.

Thank you, Tim Hill, Chair

The 2008 calendar was a great success, selling well over 300 copies and thanks to the buyers and the sponsors we made over £1000 which was used towards refurbing our ladies toilet and incorporating disabled facilities. However as many of the CHADRA readers will know, there was a slight problem!! The infallible internet failed and so October and December were a day short and November had one too many!! Sorry we seemed to have lost you a day!

To celebrate this error the hall have decided that next years calendar will have 12 deliberate mistakes instead of 3 accidental ones and therefore each month will contain a cunning falsehood, No, nothing wrong with the dates and forgive any spelling mistakes there may be, these are either a mistake in the description of the monthly illustration or maybe the photo has been “doctored”!! If you can't find all of them, don't worry very few will, and there are lots of prizes.

Schoolchildren are invited to spot the mistakes and to enter our competition with well over £200 in prizes plus loads and loads of luvly goodies. A digital camera, a giant bag of sweets, a part day out shooting, a free hair do, t-shirts, a head massage etc. etc. The conditions are on the back sheet of the calendar, which will soon be on sale door to door and also from our sales outlets, and the good news is that the price has been held at £4!

A tip!! Look for the photo of one of Charfields very rare birds. The Greater Wart Wurbler. We tell you where the nest will be!! Get up early and record the “wurble”.

You gotta be in it to win it??

We held our AGM on 8th October. At the time of writing it has not taken place but we are sure that it was well attended and thank you to all who came to support the vital work we do at our school. We welcome our new committee members to our fabulous team!

We hope our Fireworks night is on your calendars, Friday 7th November; it is always a great village event. Gates open at 6pm. Fantastic display starts 7.15pm. The display is by Iceberg Fireworks, we will have a barbeque and other refreshments, a quiet area, music by KLB's Samba Band and the Book Fair will be on in the school hall. Tickets are available from Charfield Garage, Steve's Shop, the Post Office, The Railway Tavern and the school office.

Our Christmas Fair is on Saturday 6th December, held in conjunction with our second Christmas Tree Sale on the same day, which was so well supported by our village community and beyond last year.

There are Chocoholics Brochures circulating around school at the moment, if you place and order The Friends get a percentage and some raffle prizes. If you would like to place an order, just fill in a form from within the brochure and bring it in to the school office, with payment enclosed please. There is also a brochure including order forms in the school office for you to use, if you don't happen to come across one in the playground. Last order date for yummy Christmas presents (or just for you to enjoy on the quiet!) is 24th November.

Likewise, there are Yellow Moon catalogues circulating, including crafts and lots of other fun things to keep children busy. The 11Friends get 25% cashback from any orders so please get shopping!

Remember that all parents are automatically members of the Friends. We could not support our school in such an essential way without lots of hard work by dedicated parents and carers, so thank you.

Our next meeting will be notified on the Friends notice board just inside the school gates.

The Friends Committee

To support households to reduce their energy bills and help prevent climate change, South Gloucestershire Council has teamed up with Severn Wye Energy Agency to launch SG Futurenergy – a renewable energy advice service which provides advice, grants and low interest loans to householders wishing to install renewable energy in their home.

The scheme includes a helpline manned by expert advisors that give free, impartial advice and support from the initial enquiry to actual installation of a renewable technology. Advisors can help identify the most suitable renewable technologies for your home, give you a list of reliable local installers, provide a £500 grant towards the cost of the installing a technology and advice about accessing other grants.

The scheme has also introduced a fantastic low interest loan which is available to all homeowners to help with the cost of installing a renewable technology. The loan of up to £3500 is offered at a fixed interest rate of 3% and is repayable up to 10 years.

The renewable technologies that are eligible for the scheme's grant and loan include: solar hot water, solar photovoltaics (PV), ground source heat pumps, small scale wind and biomass.

To find out more information and to apply for a grant call the SG Futurenergy Renewable Energy Advice Service on 01594 54xxxx, lines are open Mondays to Fridays, 9am until 5pm.

Alternatively email renewables @ swea.co.uk or visit the website at www.southglos.gov.uk/climatechange.

Do you have a musical instrument gathering dust in the back of the cupboard?

Now could be the time to dust it off and come and join us.

We are a mixed group of people of varying ages and abilities who meet together fortnightly in Wotton club room from 7.30–9.00pm to play classical music for fun.

We welcome All instruments but at present are short of Strings and Brass but will not turn anyone away.

If you would like to join us contact Richard Graham on 01666 89xxxx or email edge-community-orchestra @ virgin.net

Tired of battling through the crowds to do your Christmas Shopping? Looking for something different? Then come along and enjoy a relaxing shopping experience at the Christmas Market on Friday 28 November 2008 at Cromhall Village Hall.

The Market will be open from 6.00 pm to 10.00 pm with stalls featuring stunning bespoke jewellery by Hannah Banks, beautiful hand-crafted Christmas presents, decorations and wreaths, home-made pickles, chutneys and cakes, Christmas cards, stocking fillers and much, much more.

Refreshments and a raffle will be available and all proceeds will go to St Andrew's Primary School PTFA, Cromhall registered charity number 1060665.

12

SUPPORT YOUR VILLAGE HALL
CHARFIELD MEMORIAL HALL
Registered Charity number 301482

CASINO NIGHT
SATURDAY 8 NOVEMBER 2008, DOORS OPEN 7.30PM
Look out for more information nearer the time or call Deb Field (01454 26xxxx) or Tim Hill (01454 26xxxx)

FUNERAL GAMES
UNPACKED THEATRE COMPANY
FRIDAY 28 NOVEMBER 2008
“Mad cap physicality starring two brothers in the family firm of undertakers with two filing cabinets”. Suitable for ages 12+
DOORS OPEN 7.00PM, TICKETS £7 (concessions £4)
“Delicious Desserts” served after the performance (extra charge)
For more information call Margaret on 01454 26xxxx

BOOKING SECRETARY URGENTLY NEEDED
Only 2–3 hours per week
The Hall cannot continue without a Booking Secretary so if you think you can help or would like more details please call Tim Hill on 01454 26xxxx

Advertising

[Advert for Slimming World]

13[Advert for Bridge]

[Advert for Buddug Green]

[Advert for Kopperz]

[Advert for Add Plant]

[Advert for D.R. Vizard]

I know it's early, but …

Wishing all our readers a very Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy 2009

14[Advert for Charfield Memorial Hall]

[Advert for Wedding Cars]

[Advert for Plumbtec]

15[Advert for Greenline Tanks]

[Advert for Falcon Cottage B&B]

[Advert for Bradley Garage]

[Advert for Eclipse Hair Studio]

[Advert for Alan Hamer driving]

[Advert for Charfield Post Office]

16[Advert for W.S Franks]

[Advert for Pat Jeanes Reflexology]

[Advert for Claire Saunders]

[Advert for Colin Lane Carpet & Flooring]

[Advert for Littles Curtains]

[Advert for Chris Bound Carpentry]

17[Advert for Cotswold Edge Carpets]

[Advert for Barbara Daw]

[Advert for Severn Planning]

18[Advert for Terrys]

[Advert for Deborah Jayne Pringle]

[Advert for RK Aerials]

[Advert for PC Repairs]

[Advert for Acucare]

19[Advert for New Street Garage]

[Advert for At Home Curtains & Blinds]

[Advert for Relax-ology]

[Advert for Heritage Wine Co]

20[Advert for Evergreen Computing]

[Advert for Frocks & Tails at Home]

[Advert for Party From A Box]

[Advert for Manor Garden Maintenance]

[Advert for Ashworthy Cattery]

21[Advert for Autocheck]

22

Dafydd Lawday is a happy man. He is doing a job he loves with the support of a first class team.

Stand up parents of Charfield Primary School and take a bow. I'm not going to spare your blushes – head teacher Dafydd is deeply impressed with you and enormously grateful for all the enthusiastic support you give him. But more of that later.

10 am on a Wednesday morning saw me sitting in Dafydd's office examining a bewildering array of lists posted on the wall – terms; playground duties; timetables; TLR teams (whatever they may be) and a great many more. ‘Yes’, said Dafydd ruefully ‘we need a lot of lists’. A cheerful face appeared at the office door and asked for a Maths book – no tremor of anxiety at having to speak to the Head. It wasn't like that in my day.

We discussed the role of the head teacher. ‘I'm not a headmaster’ explained Dafydd, I'm a head teacher leading a team. It's a shared leadership approach. Everyone is involved and I think it works much better. With my background of sports and teamwork, telling people what to do just wouldn't sit right with me.’

It won't come as a surprise to hear that Rugby is the sport that has a special place in Dafydd's heart. He played the sport for 12 years in his home town of Pontypool where he still lives. (I didn't ask if his two daughters, aged 13 and 2, share his enthusiasm but it is certainly very infectious!) The 40 minute drive each way gives him time to reflect, either on the day ahead or the one that has just passed, or just ‘switch off’ for a while and enjoy Radio 1.

We discussed national pride – something the Welsh are much better at than the English. ‘I'd love to do something to recognise St George's Day. In Wales the celebration of our Saint's day is really important and I think it would be good to do something similar and make the English day special.’

Today's young people are awful, can't do anything – especially read and write; they are unfocussed, inattentive. We know this because our media is always telling us so. ‘Yes,’ mused Dafydd, ‘I do have real problems with this. They get such a bad press and, of course, it's just not true, especially here in Charfield. The children, though, are under a great deal of pressure with constant testing. We certainly need to know how they are progressing and how the school is performing. I'm not against exams but we do need a balance.’

I wanted to know about the use of computers and TV within the classroom. Did Dafydd agree with their early use? ‘There is a computer aspect to almost every subject now. Of course, it's important that they understand them but sometimes I think there is a danger of stunting the children's imaginations’ he said thoughtfully. And then went on to ponder the value of boredom and not filling children's spare time with constant activities. ‘Some people think it's no bad thing if children are bored and forced to rely on their own resources from time to time and I think it's a good point.’

But other things are changing and definitely for the better, he thinks. There is beginning to be more emphasis on learning through play in the early years. ‘It may sound easy’, he laughed, ‘but I challenge anyone to try it’. And then told me about a Forest Schools initiative. ‘One of our teachers is doing a training course this year and we are hoping to use the initiative in the school grounds. The children will be able to experience such things as camp fires, building dens and learning to use tools. It sounds great to me.

These things cost money, of course. ‘Ah yes. Support. We have here the most fantastic Friends of the School group. This is my fifth school and I've just never come across a group like it, and it's not just about money – it's work and 23enthusiasm as well. Amazing! I'm enormously grateful.’

This is Dafydd's first headship and he is very quick to pay tribute to his predecessors. Although he wants to make a few tweaks he recognises that an excellent structure was already in place when he took over last April. ‘If I can, I like to greet the children as they come in in the morning. Whilst it is important for the children to understand the school rules, I want them to know I am approachable and consistent.’ Ah, yes. Discipline. A very thorny subject, I think. ‘The guidelines are quite clear,’ says Dafydd, showing me a wall chart with gold, silver, green, amber and red zones and the actions that will be taken when behaviour falls into one of these categories. ‘Green is the average and the others speak for themselves. Everyone knows how it works – and it works well. If punishment is needed we link to the problem’.

One of my personal bugbears is the litter that is disgracing our village and I wanted to know what approach the school took to the problem. ‘I walk round the school every day’ said Dafydd, ‘I almost never see a single piece of litter. It just isn't a problem and I'm sure that reflects the respect that the children have for their school.’ I wonder if we could learn from the children to respect our village in the same way and then maybe the problem would go away. But off my hobby horse and back to … well, school dinners were next on my list.

I was surprised – and delighted – to hear that dinners are cooked ‘in house’ with Jill in charge. ‘I was astonished to see just how much she has to put into the planning let alone the cooking. Also there is a system here I've never heard of in another school’. Dafydd was really enthusiastic. ‘Parents come in and have lunch with the children and then spend time in the playground with them. And we have our top table. Children sit there as a reward for good behaviour with the golden plate being awarded for exceptional behaviour. It works wonderfully. And we have our splendid dinner ladies – though they aren't called that anymore. They are School Meals Supervisory Assistants.’ We both agreed we much preferred the friendly sound of ‘dinner ladies’ but know that in these P C times we are on the losing side.

With so many good things already happening what challenges does Dafydd have in front of him? ‘I'm overwhelmingly proud to be here’, he said with great feeling. ‘I am still developing the Creative Curriculum, I want to put in place more support for children with dyslexia problems and also develop achievement awards.’ A moments pause. ‘And, of course, above all, I want us to be awarded ‘outstanding’ in our OFSTED report.’

Lucky children.

Barbara Adams

Right, where to start. I've been scrabbling around looking for my scraps of paper of Chadra bits. I've only found one and know that there is info on another re: my loo attendant.

I got an early morning coach up to London and travelled back that afternoon with Mum. She insists she can make the journey on her own but, with these cheap fun fares, it's company for her coming to Bristol. We took a taxi from her home to Vic. Coach station and the driver parked in a different road so we called into the loos at “the other end.” No charming chaps there.

Ooh, I've just remembered something, obviously on that missing bit of paper. My sister's 50th birthday was coming up. She likes to get her underwear from Rigby & Peller. Now, if you have not heard of them they have two shops, one at Mayfair and the other in the street next to Harrods. I suggested to Mum, who didn't know what to get her either, that we get a gift voucher. It was on the Wednesday, so Mum was off to her art class and I was returning to Charfield. I raced up on the tube, planning to go straight to Knightsbridge. The exit was blocked due to certain works on one of the lines, so I 24got another tube back to Hyde Park and darted up the road. It started to rain. You can imagine me can't you? Mac trailing, big red bag flung over my shoulder, pink and purple overnight bag on the other arm and I burst through the door to the shop of R & P. They make knickers for the Queen. Well, her crest is over the front of the shop. All hushed in side. I was greeted by the Manager, but this is certainly not a swanky enough title for her. “Good afternoon, Madam, how may we help you?” she asked. I was suddenly trying to think of a posher name for gift voucher, and couldn't. I was steered to a very highly polished counter and handed over the money. Next I was given a receipt from the till which was attached to a card advising you how to wash these very expensive undies. I assumed that was it, but no. The voucher appeared, this was wrapped in tissue, then placed in a long box and THEN placed in a carded bag sealed with a gold tied ribbon bow. What a shop. I've got to say good luck to my sister who so enjoys going there but I felt just a little bit uncomfy. Perhaps it was being called Madam.

Trace, of Mel and Trace, had one of those books, sold at school, that have money off vouchers in. Tracey fancied Jesters, the Comedy Store in the Gloucester Road. Off we went. Apparently, it was student's night and the drinks were cheap. When you book, you are allocated seat numbers. When we got ours, where were we? In the front row!!! Who was a stone's throw, (actually does that describe how near) to the comedians? ME!!!

The first one came out. Straight at me, “What do you do then?” So I explained. Thereafter the next three comedians all came out with, “So who's the pretend teacher then?” and further jibes about colouring in, etc. I was in a right old sweat. It's like you see on the tele.

On the subject of school, it was Sports Day. Some bright spark came up with the idea of a Staff Race. Obviously, I had to take part and did not have suitable footwear or OTHER GARMENTS!! You know what I mean? Arms tightly folded and all that. Anyway, the whistle blew, dear Mr Lawday, our fab Headteacher disappeared in a cloud of dust swiftly followed, as far as I recall, by everyone else bar me. My dappy shoes were sliding all about and my upper bits were not secure. So I just ventured on in a leisurely manner. Enough said.

Right, toilets. On my last visit, and then return, from Vic. Coach Station I called into you-know-where. There was my “chap”. Acknowledging my presence, he just flung himself back onto his swivel chair and covered his face with his hands. Oh well, romance over.

Well I had better sign off. Apologies to Hilary and Geoff. I'm like the kid at school doing her homework at the very last minute.

On this windy, rainy Sunday, I'll sign off. Keep Cosy, Love Maz

As many of you will know, our parish priest, Viv Kerner, has been galvanising all sorts of people into action for the benefit of the church and the village. We have been busy raising funds for various aspects of church work, and we have also been trying to add some extra zest to the village's social life.

Did you know that we have to raise from amongst ourselves all the money needed to maintain and upgrade the church? And that's in addition to the money we need to send to Gloucester to pay for costs such as the parish priest's house. And that's in addition to any money we send to help various charities. At the moment we are raising money for repairs and maintenance to the church fabric. We need several thousand pounds for this. We also want to connect the church to mains water and drainage. Can you believe the church has no running water? We hope to put in a loo and a kitchen area, but this will cost a substantial sum. We have also been raising funds for the 25sweatshirts and t-shirts for the children's singing group – more about that later.

The story so far includes the disco organised by Annette Carter earlier this year and at which a good time was had by all, if only watching the antics of those who haven't updated their dancing style since the 70s! Annette raised an amazing £700 for the church with this disco.

Viv and Steve Kerner organised the first rectory fete on 20 September. They say the sun shines on the righteous, and the fete was certainly blessed with one of the sunniest days this year. If any of you haven't watched a teddy-bear zip slide, then all I can say is, you haven't lived, and you'll have to wait till next summer to catch up. Lots of people contributed to the success of the day, whether by making food, serving it, or by organising the stands. Altogether, £700 was raised for church funds.

We are now in the process of setting up a fundraising group to try to build on these successes. Our aim is to organise fundraising activities with a social angle. We want to involve people from all walks of life, and not just those who come to church regularly. The church is there for everyone, and almost everyone needs it at some point, whether for the happy or the sad events in life. So, if you would like to meet some of the people from around the village and contribute to fundraising activities, or even if you just have an idea for an activity you would enjoy, call Sue Thorn on 01454 29xxxx, or email xxxx @ yahoo.co.uk.

I mentioned the children's singing group. This is a group of primary school children, who meet after school on Fridays (3:15pm) at the Church to practice. They then form the choir on the last Sunday of the month. They are really brilliant. Do come to listen and bring any children who might then be inspired to join in.

Lastly, a few words about some special services for the rest of the year. The All Souls service will be held on Sunday 2 November at 6pm. This is a special service that gives an opportunity to remember all those loved ones we have lost, whether recently or long ago. It's really moving, and if you pop into the church during the week before, you can add your loved ones' names to the list to be read out.

On Sunday 9 November, the Remembrance Sunday service will be held at 10.55 at the war memorial. On Sunday 30 November, the children's Christingle service will be held at 3pm. Children are welcome to come to the Rectory at 10.00 the previous day and have fun making the Christingles.

The Christmas services continue with the candlelit carol service at St James's at 7pm on Friday 19 December, the carol service at 3pm on Sunday 21 December, the children's crib service at 4pm on Christmas Eve and the midnight service at 11.30. On Christmas Day there will be a service at 9.30. We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible at these services.

Hoping to see many of you in your church over the next few months
Sue Thorn and Viv Kerner

The Government are proposing changes in the New Pharmacy White Paper that if implemented will mean that the surgery will no longer be able to dispense medicines to patients who live more than a mile away from the surgery. All dispensing patients would therefore have to get their prescriptions from a chemist and local delivery services would also cease.

Ceasing of dispensing services will have two main effects:

• Firstly, if you are a dispensing patient, you will no longer be able to have your prescriptions dispensed after you see your doctor and all repeat prescriptions will have to be obtained from a Chemist.
• 26Secondly, for all patients, as there would be a loss of income for the partnership, this would have significant effects on the services the surgery would be able to provide. About 50% of income from dispensing goes to fund provision of general medical services. As a result, if dispensing ceases, then there will be a reduction in the number of clinics provided. Some doctors, nurses, all dispensers and some admin staff will lose their jobs.

If you do not agree with the Labour Government's plan to cease doctors from dispensing, then could we suggest that you write to your local MP:-
Steve Webb MP, Xxxx Xxxx, Poole Court Drive, Yate, Bristol, BS37 5PP -or-
Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, Unit 1143, Regent Court, Gloucester Business Park, Hucclecote, GL3 4AD

The Dispensing Doctor Association is co-ordinating the fight against this change and has asked that we forward copies of any letters sent to MPs and their reply. The Reception staff will happily copy your letters and replies if you could hand them in.

Dr W J Burrows & Partners, The Chipping Surgery

Revision to Planning Application PT07/0573/F Extension of Wickwar East Quarry northwards

Cemex have submitted a revised planning application for the extension of the Wickwar quarry which will bring the quarry excavations closer to Churchend and Charfield. Although the new revision addresses several of the objections to the original planning application, the rate and scope of the operation is still unacceptable. Noise, dust, flooding and traffic are likely to increase. Due to insufficient stand-offs to provide screening and shelter, the residential areas of Charfield and Churchend will be severely affected.

How this Impacts You
The level of extraction that Cemex have requested means that the related issues of traffic on local roads, dust from quarrying and noise from associated plant workings will continue and may even worsen.

When blasting and extraction starts at the new area it will be at ground level and significantly closer to Charfield and Churchend and there will be an adverse impact to most residential properties in the surrounding area!

The quarry has been unlawfully extracting at over its permitted rate (by almost double) which has resulted in the noticeable increase in nuisance experienced by residents – the amount of Cemex lorries pounding through the village and congestion at the Downs Road and Charfield Hill junctions are testaments to their increasing presence among us!

Charfield Parish Council strongly objected to the previous planning application.

We would like to see the application rejected totally. But if the application is forced through we are looking to minimise the impact to the area. We believe the key issues that need to be addressed are:
• Limiting the extraction extension area to 300m so that the stand-off from the nearest dwellings at Churchend is similar to that granted to Wickwar and its church; and

• Limiting the extraction rate to the 400,000 tonnes/year; and
• Maintaining and improving the shelter belts and habitat around the whole of the new quarry site; and
• Improving the B4509 Downs Road all along from the quarry access to the B4058; and
• Adhering to the operating hours in the existing planning application; and
• Restricting the number of lorry movements (and lorry weights) in and out of the quarry.

27Your View Counts
The Council are currently looking for the public's opinion on this application. This application directly affects YOU. You must register a comment. This is important. Even if you have commented on the previous application you must object again.

Please raise your objections to S.Glos. Council as soon as possible. We only have days to send in our comments.

Please continue to lobby on this issue. Charfield Residents have already successfully achieved the rejection of the unsuitable development opposite the village hall and in getting the quarry to limit its working during un-social hours. Taking action does work. This is the most important planning application this year and it affects every resident – please take 10 minutes to make your views heard by:

Writing to Simon Ford, Planning Department, South Glos Council, Civic Centre, High Street, Kingswood, BS15 9TR or E-mailing: xxxx @ southglos.gov.uk.

Please remember to always quote S.Glos planning reference: PT07/0573/F in correspondence.

Charfield's Home Guard was a very efficient and well trained unit, but things didn't always work out as intended, not I may add, because of any defect in training procedures, or slackness from the personnel involved.

One such incident happened during a night training exercise which entailed a section of our platoon acting as a German raiding party attempting to reach our headquarters at the old Railway Inn. The main body of our platoon was deployed along the railway embankment about half way along the ridings having been told by look outs that the enemy was approaching along that route. [The ridings was the old lane leading to Little Bristol before the railway arrived in around 1845, when the direction of the old original lane had to be changed to accommodate the position of the rail track].

We waited patiently, keeping as flat to the ground as possible, and just below the parapet of the embankment with our safety catches off [rifles ready to fire] waiting for the order to fire. About half an hour had passed by, when we heard footsteps approaching from the right, but as yet nothing could be seen. Then, very suddenly, figures loomed out of the darkness seemingly only a couple of yards in front of us.

The long awaited order to fire came, and to put it crudely all hell seemed to break loose. We all had five blank cartridges issued, and I would think they were all fired off in about thirty seconds flat, it sounded as if the battle of Britain was being fought on the railway embankment in Charfield. The German raiding party only managed to fire off a couple of shots before trying to get as flat to ground as an old cow pat. As sanity returned, someone in the German party could be heard saying, “what's up Ted”, a somewhat agitated voice replied saying, “I can't see – I can't see”. By this time we had scrambled, very apprehensively, over the top of the embankment wondering what had happened. We soon discovered that Ted, was Cpl Ted Woodlands, who was leading the German patrol. He was bent over with his hands over his eyes in obvious discomfort. Apparently, dust and grit from one of the blank cartridges, fired by our party, had hit Ted in the face, and some of it had obviously got into his eyes. Our leader that night, Sgt King, poured water from several water bottles [we were all issued with standard army water bottles] over Ted's eyes and face, and thankfully, after a few minutes Ted's pain became less acute, and we were able to help him home. What his wife thought of his condition I do not know, she must have thought that he had been mauled by a Great White Shark after falling into the Ridings pond, but what ever she thought, poor Ted really did suffer.

28It was confirmed by the doctor the next day that no permanent damage had been done to Ted's eyes, which was a great relief to every one.

The other cartridges in that particular consignment were checked out, but it was later confirmed that this type of cartridge was completely safe, although it was admitted that one hundred percent safety was impossible. Nothing more was heard about this, but after all, “there was a war on”.

Another evening exercise, in which the Sharpness Home guard played a part, was a well thought out and well organised affair that should have gone according to plan, but was, due to unforeseen circumstances, forced to end much earlier than planned.

This exercise followed the same routine as most other training sessions, i.e. the Charfield Home Guard had to defend a strategic area from a German raiding party, only this time instead of members of our own Home Guard unit being the German raiders, the Sharpness Home Guard did the honours, this made it far more interesting, and certainly more competitive. The old Brickworks was the area of strategic importance for this exercise, so we, the Charfield Home Guard, had to stop any incursion or infiltration from the enemy, namely the Sharpness Home Guard, into any part of that once hive of industry, this was quite a tall order.

Everything was going very well, and a number of the enemy were taken prisoner, but one or two came across the railway line [very dangerous] and managed to get inside one of the buildings, this was when unrehearsed parts of the exercise came into play.

The rules were, that if any of the attacking force were caught they were made prisoner and took no further part in the exercise. Unfortunately, one of the attackers when caught, refused to become a prisoner, what was even more unfortunate was, the Charfield defender who apprehended this infiltrator, happened to be Bill Beames, known to every one far and wide as, “Beamer”. Beamer was a man who said what he meant, and meant what he said, and if he told the man he was hanging on to that he was a prisoner, that is exactly what this person was, “a prisoner”. What was even more unfortunate than the other unfortunates was that Beamer's prisoner obviously didn't know who his captor was, consequently he did a very foolish thing – he tried to get away.

Within a few seconds a real war had broken out, with Beamer and his reluctant prisoner rolling around on the floor knocking dozens of neatly piled pallets flying in all directions, but there was no way this sad infiltrator could shake off Bulldog Beamer.

Luckily the noise alerted others who were close at hand, and this two man war was quickly over, it also brought the exercise to a premature end. This sort of minor confrontation between competing Home Guard units, although not common place, did happen now and again when people got fired up, but it did at least bring some sort of reality into otherwise dull routine exercises, making them much more interesting.

Home Guard units throughout the country were made up of young men waiting to be called up for service with the regular armed forces, older men too old to be considered for active service, and those who were deemed unfit after undergoing the normal pre call up medical examination that all young men had to undergo; Charfield Home Guard had a good mixture of all these three categories.

One or two of the older men had seen service in the First World War, our Sgt Major, Denis Spill, was one of them. The thing I disliked most, was night duty, we all had to take our turn to do this, or maybe I should say, we were all “supposed” to take our turn to do this, but luckily, one of the first world war old timers was only too pleased to help, not only me but anyone else who wasn't too keen on losing a good 29nights sleep at home by doing night duty for them. This old knight in shining armour, was Bill Smith, I would imagine he did more night shift duty than any other home guard in the county.

Anyone doing night duty was, as a rule, paid the princely sum of around 2/- a night, well worth doing if you didn't mind sleeping on a small iron bed with rusty creaking springs, three small straw filled biscuits for a mattress, and only your greatcoat to keep you warm.

The biggest drawback to doing night duty however was, that when the air raid sirens sounded, which could be two or three times a night, out you had to go patrolling the village. Priority areas for patrolling were the railway timber yard [now part of the Fews empire] where two huge “Esso Petroleum” tanks, holding thousands of gallons of oil, were partially buried in hollows in the ground, our ammunition hut, and the railway line running through the village.

Every month or so, night duty pay parades took place, we would all gather at our Headquarters where our platoon commander, Captain Baker, and Sgt Major Spill, did the paying out. Sgt Major Spill called out the names plus the amount each person would receive, and Captain Baker paid out the money; obviously I can't remember the exact payments made, but this will give you a good idea of an average payout, it went something like this; Private Cook F, 4/-. Private Heaven C, 4/-. Private Parker K, 4/-. Private Smith W, 24/-; the rest of the platoon would be paid out, some with more than 4/- but none were paid any where near the amount of Private Smith Ws, 24/- . How Captain Baker filled the forms in that were sent to headquarters in Gloucester I do not know, perhaps the top brass weren't worried who did the night duty so long as someone did, or it could have been that all our names were on the forms indicating that we had all taken our turn in the normal way, any how it mattered little, no one seemed bothered.

The Home Guard has been the butt of many jokes over the years and having experienced some very amusing incidents myself, I can see the reason for this. With the jokes in mind, it must be remembered, Home Guards were not professional soldiers; every one of us had full time jobs. Being a Home Guard meant that you had very little leisure time, when we were not at work we were training, very often with weapon training instructors from the regular army. In Cities and Towns, and all around the coast, Home Guards were trained to man anti aircraft guns and searchlight batteries, so all in all, in spite of the many jokes, dedicated men, young or old, athletic or doddery, did a great job and should be proud to wear the veterans badge, now being issued to them in recognition of their service to the country. I think the ladies who had to cope with the upheaval in their lives, caused by their husbands or sons Home Guard activities, should also be allowed to wear the badge, but maybe, just maybe, being called a veteran wouldn't go down very well with a lot of ladies!

Ken Parker.

I would imagine every one in Charfield is aware of the terrible disaster that occurred in the village, on October 13th, 1928, the anniversary of which will soon be with us.

I could fill many pages of the News Letter with stories that are still floating around concerning this tragic event, many of them are unsubstantiated, others are quite silly, the strangest of them all concerns the two children that were supposed to have been found dead in the wreckage.

Having read the medical report regarding the victims of the crash a number of times, I can categorically state that no mention was made of two children having been found amongst those who had sadly lost their lives. Beneath the name and details of the “known” victims, the medical report reads – Two unknown, one probably a child.

30This puts a completely different complexion on things, if indeed these two unknown victims were an adult and a child, it could easily have been a Father, Mother, or Guardian travelling with a child from one part of the country to another and maybe not even living permanently in this country, or it could have been a parent and child from a split marriage moving to another part of the country to start a new life, or perhaps there wasn't a child at all amongst the victims, the permutations are endless. The real mystery concerning this whole tragic event is, where did the stories about the two unknown young victims originate?

Ken Parker

Minister: Rev. Philip Hopes
Tel: 01453 84xxxx
Sunday Morning Worship at 11 am.
Sunday School 11 am.
Family Service 1st Sunday of each month at 11 am.
Monday 8 pm. Prayer and Bible Study
December 21st Carol Service
Christmas Day Family Service 10.30 am.

*Coffee morning in the Chapel Schoolroom, Friday November 14th 10 am–12 noon, when the Centre Bookshop from Stroud will be coming with Cards, Books and Gifts for Christmas.

What shall a man give in exchange for his own soul?
This is a true story about two men. One was wealthy and had everything he desired, the other was poor, and had none of this worlds goods. Luke 16: 19 through 31. The rich man was clothed in purple linen and faired sumptuously (luxuriously) every day. 20 And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores, 21 And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. 22 And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; 23 And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. 24 And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. 25 But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented. 26 And beside all this; between us and you, there is a great gulf (chasm, impassable interval) fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence. 27 Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father's house: 28 For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment. 29 Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them. 30 And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent. 31 And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.

1 John 2:15 Love not the world; neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. Matthew 16:26 For, what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his own soul? Revelation 3:20 Behold I stand at the door, and knock; if any man hear my voice; and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.

Are you saved my friends? If not please pray, ‘Lord Jesus, I am a sinner, yet, I believe you died and shed your blood for me, and on the third day you rose from the dead. Please forgive my sins and set me free from the bondage of sin. I accept you as my Saviour, and I will serve you always, in Jesus Christ's name I pray, Amen’

31

[Graphic: Charfield Junior Football Club]

The Secret Diary of a Club Secretary/Manager Aged 47 and a small bit

September has come and gone and the new season has kicked off with great promise. All three of the Junior Football Clubs teams are now playing 11-a-side football and are very enthusiastic about their prospects this year. Just for a change though I thought for this article I would give you an insight into one Club members recent weeks.

Sunday Morning – We are playing away again. Not sure why all our games seem to be away fixtures. Forget Goalkeepers jersey so have to go home to get it. Pass other team players who wonder why I'm driving in the wrong direction. Smile, wave and keep going. Eventually arrive to see the pitch covered in fog. The sun is coming out so hopefully things will be alright. The two players who have scored 7 of our 9 goals this season are missing and we are playing a team we have not beaten before. Still, we have won two of our first three games this season and they haven't won either of their two games, so think positive thoughts. Wait, what's that. The Ref is the Chairman of the League we have just taken to arbitration with the GFA. Tell team to assume we will not get any favours with 50/50 decisions. The whistle goes and the game is on. Things are going well. Our defender clears the ball and is flattened by their number 26. Ref gives only a foul and our player has to go off with hurt shoulder. Think positive thoughts. Please don't concede a goal in the first half. We play better in the second half so don't want to be behind at the break. Half time whistle goes. A good performance has got us a goal less draw at the break.

A quick team talk and a drink and the second half kicks off. Things are looking good. Our left winger goes on a run. He goes around two defenders. Side steps the goalkeeper. Go, go, shoot, it's an empty net. The shot goes into the side netting! Moments later another chance. Our striker only has the keeper to beat. Side netting again. Is it going to be one of those days? The other team are on a run. Tackle him. No tackle and the ball is in the back of our net. Minutes later a shot deflects off one of our defenders and we are two down. It is going to be one of those days. But wait we have scored on the break and suddenly spirits are lifted and we are back in the game. After all this excitement things settle down again. Decide to move a defender up to boost the front with the hope of getting at least a draw. It doesn't work. A great goal from the other team and it's almost over. Just time for their number 26 to flatten another defender. This time from behind with the ball no where near. The Ref speaks to him this time and the other manager does the decent thing and takes him off. The final whistle goes. The boys did well but the result went against them. The boys still enjoy the traditional spin on the merry-go-round. This was the place it all started for the team 4 years ago.

Sunday Evening – Time to put my shin pads on and play for the Charfield Strollers. It's five against six players and I'm on the side of the five so it's going to be hard work. Some of my passes go astray. Glad my junior team are not here to witness this. Thankfully, just like my team, I get better in the second half and my passes find their intended targets. Amazingly we win and half the team goes home happy. Legs already beginning to ache. Tell myself I'll be fine in the morning, but know better.

Monday – Time to go to work and get some rest. If only. Legs ache! Realise it's our Committee meeting on Thursday and need to do the minutes of last months meeting. Keep telling myself I must start 32these earlier each time. Never do. At least I get them out with days to spare. Why do minutes always take hours to write?!!

Tuesday – The other managers have handed in their result cards so need to fill in the League forms and send them off or we will we get fined. Also complete another player registration form for our U13s. They have a lot of players this year. It's good that they want to play for Charfield Juniors.

Wednesday – Almost a football free day. Chairperson gets tickets to Status Quo so Thursday's Committee meeting is put back a week. Have to notify everyone but at least we won't need to organise a baby sitter at home now. Relax in front of the TV. Oh, football is on. Wonder who Man U are playing so I can cheer the other team on.

Thursday – Spend the day thinking about what drills to try out in the evening. Tackling would be good but don't want the players to hurt each other. Only half the team turn up for training with the other half helping out at a parents evening at KLB. Work on ball control and passing before having a practise match. Note that the concrete pads for the new cabin have been put in place. The new cabin will be here soon. Having a new changing room will make a lot of difference.

Friday – Again almost a football free day. On the 18th green with my son when my mobile goes off. Look around and hope the serious golfers haven't heard it. The U16s opponents for Sunday can't get enough players and want to cancel the game. It's only the County Cup after all, nothing important! Notify the U16 manager. My son beats me at golf. Need to look at the handicap system again!

Saturday – Meet the Clubs other two managers at the ground. Between us we have the grass to cut, lines to paint and nets to put up. Get there early to drive the new mower. Two hours later the grass looks good and the lines are almost straight. Then comes news that a lorry has reversed into our new cabin whilst in storage and flattened it beyond repair! At least the firm we bought it from promise to look for a new one. Almost another one of those days.

Sunday – Here we go again, but I wouldn't change a thing.

All Club members give up their valuable time to help the kids of the village play football and I thank them for that. I think the village is a better place for having Junior Football in it.

If you would like to join or help the Club in any capacity please contact me on 01454 26xxxx.

Thank You, Nigel Cloke
Club Secretary/Under 12s Manager

A man spent many years as a drunkard and a layabout. But through the Salvation Army, he turned to the Lord and his life gradually changed. At Sunday service he became well known for his prayers – like this one, perhaps a little strange, but full of truth:

“Lord, we ain't what we want to be, we ain't what we ought to be and we ain't what we're gonna be – but praise Thee, Lord, we ain't what we used to be!”

OMP

33

Friends of Charfield Primary School
Registered Charity No. 1041593

FIREWORK DISPLAY
At Charfield Primary School

Display by ICEBERG FIREWORKS

Tickets available from;
The School Office
Charfield Post office
Charfield Garage
Steve's Shop
The Railway Tavern

BBQ, Refreshments, Quiet Area.

Friday 7th November

GATES OPEN 6PM. DISPLAY STARTS 7.15PM

Pre-Sale Tickets
ADULTS £4.00
CHILDREN £2.50
FAMILY £12.00
(2 Adults & 3 Children)

On the night
ADULTS £5.00
CHILDREN £3.00
No Family Tickets
Pre School Children Free

All Children Under 16 MUST be accompanied by an adult.
No Sparklers or personal fireworks.

Friends of Charfield Primary School cannot accept responsibility for cancellation of event due to adverse weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances. Tickets are non refundable.

34

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

Baby and Toddler Group
Alex Montgomery 01453 84xxxx

Bingo Club
Sue Scoble 01454 26xxxx

British Legion
David Millman (Hon Sec) 01454 26xxxx

Charfield Pre-School
Donna Allen (Play Leader) 07866 04xxxx
Collette Walker (Chair) 01453 84xxxx
Emily Lock (Admissions) 01454 29xxxx

Charfield Primary School
Dafydd Lawday 01454 26xxxx

Childminders
Sarah Gazzard 01454 26xxxx

Church – Congregational
Rev Philip Hopes 01453 84xxxx

Church – St. John's
Vivienne Kerner 01454 26xxxx

Council – Charfield Parish
Sue Bailey (Clerk) 01453 51xxxx
Email clerk @ charfieldparishcouncil.co.uk

Council – South Gloucestershire
Sandra O'Neill 01454 26xxxx
Email xxxx @ southglos.gov.uk

Cricket Club
Diane Bradley 01453 84xxxx

Crimestoppers 0800 555 111

Friends of Charfield Primary School
Lisa Burner 01454 26xxxx
Helen England 01454 26xxxx

Foundation Room
Bryan Grantham 01454 26xxxx

Friendship Club
Mrs. M Ealey 01454 29xxxx

Junior Football Club
Nigel Cloke 01454 26xxxx

Keep Fit Club
Christine Parfitt 01454 26xxxx

Luncheon Club for the Elderly
Jane Higgins 01454 26xxxx

Memorial Hall
Bookings 07774 41xxxx
Email xxxx @ virgin.net
Tim Hill (Chair) 01454 26xxxx