Loddon Valley Link 201512 - December 2015 - January2016

December 2015/January 2016

Issu

e 4

85

The Loddon Valley Link

Church and Village Magazine for Sherfield-on-Loddon, Stratfield Saye,

Hartley Wespall with Stratfield Turgis and Bramley

www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk

Welcome to the December 2015/January 2016 double issue. There are obviously many events happening in December and January. In the centre pages we have provided an extra pull-out section giving details of all the Christmas church services, including some which are especially for children and families - do come along to one of these. We have also published separately full details of all December and January services. There are the usual regular news and reports articles, including a two-page update from Sherfield Park. On p. 13 there is the first of a series of articles on soldiers listed on the Sherfield village war memorial, as a result of work done by local researchers to find out about their lives. The cover photo this month is by Carol Johnson. Please keep your photos and articles coming in to : [email protected].

Contents

Church Services pp 4-5 Pastoral Letter pp 7-8 Parish Registers p 8 Prayer Page p 11 Our WWI Dead p 13 WI p 17 Evergreens Club p 17 Police p 19 Borough Councillor p 23 Stratfield Saye Bus Service p 26 Sherfield Village Hall p 26 Christmas Services pp 31-34 New Editor(s) p 36 Sherfield Park Matters pp 38-39 NWR p 43 Sherfield Parish Council p 45 Civil Serv Ret Fellowship p 47 Village Agent p 48 Stratfield Saye Updates p 51 Sherfield Gardening Club p 52 Sherfield Park Events p 53 Small Ads p 60 Useful Numbers p 61

Page 3

Editorial

Editor: Jane Abrams

Support for the Loddon Valley Link

Our magazine is distributed free of charge to over 2,100 homes in local parishes. We are able to do this through the support of our advertisers and the editorial teams who give their time voluntarily. In the past we have run an envelope scheme to ask donations but we have decided not to do so this year. However, if you enjoy the magazine we would be very grateful if you could support us through Easyfundraising. Visit our website for details of how the scheme works.

Services

December 2015

Sunday 6th December Advent 2 10.00am Christingle & Toy Service Sherfield Park Community Centre 10.00am Family Service St Marys Stratfield Saye* 6.30pm Evensong and Communion by Ext St Marys Hartley Wespall

Sunday 13th December Advent 3

10.00am Morning Worship & Sunday Club St Leonards Sherfield 5.00pm Carol Service St Marys Hartley Wespall

Sunday 20th December Advent 4

10.00am Holy Communion and Sunday Club St Leonards Sherfield 4.30pm Carol Service St Marys Stratfield Saye* 6.00pm Carol Service St Leonards Sherfield 6.30pm Evensong St Mary s Hartley Wespall

Thursday 24th December Christmas Eve 4.00pm Crib Service St Leonards Sherfield 10.30pm Holy Communion St Marys Hartley Wespall 11.00pm Holy Communion St Leonards Sherfield

Friday 25th December Christmas Day 10.00am Family Service St Marys Hartley Wespall 10.30am Family Service St Leonards Sherfield 11.00am Family Communion by Ext St Marys Stratfield Saye*

Sunday 27th December Christmas 1 10.00am Benefice Holy Communion St Marys Hartley Wespall

*Drive up close to the white gates, which will open automatically .

Children are welcome at all our services. Services in italics are particularly geared to children and families.

Services

January 2016

Sunday 3rd January Epiphany

10.00am Holy Communion St Leonards Sherfield 10.00am Family Service St Marys Stratfield Saye* 6.30pm Evensong and Communion St Marys Hartley Wespall

Sunday 10th January Epiphany 1

10.00am Morning Worship and Sunday Club St Leonards Sherfield Friday 4.15pm Messy Church Sherfield Community Centre


10.00am Holy Communion & Sunday Club St Leonards Sherfield 6.30pm Evensong St Marys Hartley Wespall


10.00am Family Service St Leonards Sherfield

Sunday 31st January Epiphany 4

10.00am Benefice Holy Communion St Leonards Sherfield

Sunday 7th February Epiphany 5

10.00am Holy Communion St Leonards Sherfield 10.00am Family Service St Marys Stratfield Saye* 6.30pm Evensong and Communion St Marys Hartley Wespall

BREACH LANE CHAPEL Sherfield on Loddon Geoff Belsham 01256 882534 / 07519 708416 Transport is available for all events at the chapel

December2015

January 2016

Thursday 3rd 7.45pm Bible Study at 9 Coopers Lane, Bramley

Friday 4th 10.30am Open Morning at the Chapel

Sunday 6th Sunday 3rd 10.30am Family Worship led by Neil Owen

Tuesday 8th 7.45pm Church Meeting at Frimley Road


Sunday 13th 10.30am CHRISTMAS CAROL SERVICE led by Rev. Richard Lane

Thursday 17th Thursday 7th 7.45pm Bible Study at 9 Coopers Lane,


Saturday 19th 2.30pm Disabled Christian Fellowship (DCF) led by Geoff Belsham

Sunday 20th 10.30am Family Worship led by Neil Owen including Holy Communion

Sunday 10th 10.30am Family Worship led by Graham Locke

Friday 25th 10.30am CHRISTMAS DAY SERVICE led by Geoff Belsham

Sunday 27th 10.30am Family Worship led by Steve Smith


Saturday 16th 2.30pm DCF led by Geoff Belsham

Sunday 17th 10.30am Family Worship led by Richard Lane

Thursday 21st 7.45pm Bible Study at 9 Coopers Lane,

Friday 22nd 10.30am Open Morning at the Chapel

Sunday 24th 10.30am Family Worship led by Steve Smith

Wednesday 27th 2.30pm Mid-week fellowship led by Geoff Belsham

Friday 29th 10.30am Open Morning at the Chapel Sunday 31st 10.30am Family Worship

Services and Events

PASTORAL LETTER

One of my favourite expressions is, As useless as a chocolate teapot on a sunny afternoon. I save it for particular moments of extreme frustration, usually connected with my computer

or phone system. Whilst on holiday in Wales once I found myself with time to think, and this question came to mind

(sorry, Im like that). Just how useless, exactly, is a chocolate teapot? I mused. Well, if you like chocolate and it is a good quality chocolate teapot or, come to think of it, even it is a bad quality one and you are just desperate, then it could be very useful indeed. It was at that point my

mind began to go a little wild and gambol playfully in the imaginary field of chocolate teapotology. What about the value of chocolate as a medicine (the main proponents being ladies who crave the stuff)? What

about as a novelty ornament, a Christmas tree decoration, a chocolate eating competition trophy (mmm, would have to get another one for next year), a sweet jar or moneybox or even for occasional and brief use with

cold tea on a winters day! Why, I thought, Chocolate teapots arent useless at all, and with that I began to plan my next book, 103 Ways to Use a Chocolate Teapot in a Cool Climate: 2016, published by uselessbooks.com (soon).

I can still hear a teachers voice ringing in my ears, You useless boy! Oddly enough I still repeat this to myself when I have mucked something

up. Fortunately I have lost the bad habit of applying this ascription to others. However, it is so easy to come near to it. Actually it is not odd at all that I should still struggle with this. The useless boy voice was strong in my childhood along with could do better on my school report. Fortunately there were stronger, more loving and affirming voices; those of my parents and family. I also learned that God never ever sees us in

that light. In fact he weeps when we are abused so, or when we abuse ourselves and others using the useless voice. I know now that I am absolutely not useless and neither is anyone else. All are valued and

should be valued no matter what.

This is the starting point in my thoughts for Christmas and the New Year because that was the starting point for God. Whether we realise it or not,

believe it or not, God values each and every one including you! At Christmas we recall precisely how much. God took on human flesh, got right into the skin of our existence, at every level. Jesus was born to

(Continued on page 8)

Page 7

poverty in a smelly cowshed. He lived among us, especially among those who

were poor, weak and in need, and gave them dignity and hope.

As Christ followers we believe that his eventual death and resurrection broke the power of death itself and gave us a place of belonging in God as his children for ever. All this was for our benefit and to his glory. All this was and

is because we are precious to him. God chooses still to be with us whatever our circumstances. In Isaiah God says, you are precious in my sight, and honoured, and I love you. Isaiah 43 v 4.

May God bless you all richly this Christmas and in the New Year

Stephen (Vicar)

01256 881071 or temporary email [email protected]

(Continued from page 7)

Catholic Services

St Bedes and Holy Ghost Churches, Basingstoke.

Parish Office Tues to Friday

9.30 am-1.00 pm Tel.465214. Sunday Mass 9.00 am, 11.00 am and 6.30 pm

Parish Registers

Weddings

Hayley Sheppard

Adam Briggs

5th December 2015 Sherfield

Stephanie Vincent

Jonathan Williams

12th December 2015 Sherfield

Thoughts and prayers for Advent, Christmas and the New Year A voice of one calling: In the wilderness prepare the way for the LORD; Make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be exalted, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain. And the glory of the LORD will be revealed, and all people will see it together. Isaiah 40 : 30 - 5 The NIV Bible

Prayer for the Month.

Lord Jesus Christ, you came to our world, but there was no place for you.

You came to your own people but they were not ready to receive you. You were born in Bethlehem but there was no room for you at the inn. You came to bring life to all, but you were put to death on a cross. You know what it is to be homeless, hungry, and rejected. We bring you our

prayers for all those who endure such need today. We praise you for the promise that you will come again in Christ to establish your kingdom and to give life to all people. Lord, as we prepare for Christmas, help us

through our Advent worship to gain a new sense of expectation and a new confidence in the future. Help us to see the wonder of your coming in Christ so that we may be ready to greet you when you come again.

Lord, may the good news of your gospel and your coming into the world at Christmas move in the hearts of all who hear it. May the light of Christ

shine in our lives in the New Year.

Through Jesus Christ our Lord Amen

Prayer Points for December/January

Pray for the homeless, especially those who have fled across the sea to Europe, that the world will realise their plight and plan a new future for them. Pray that the New Year will see a solution to the

bitterness and fighting in Syria and the Middle East. May the New Year be a time of new beginnings for the people who have fled from the devastation that surrounds them. Pray for the people of Paris and all

those throughout the world who have lost loved ones or been injured in

violent attacks. May God give them comfort.

Give thanks for the joy of the Christmas message,

Pray for safe journeys as people travel to be with their families.

Pray for those who could be alone at Christmas, that their need of

fellowship and friendship will be recognised by those around them.


www.classictreeservices.co.uk

Remembering Our World War I Dead

Over the last year a small group from Sherfield has been researching information on the soldiers of the First World War listed on the village war memorial. This is the first in a series of articles featuring members of the other ranks in the centenary month of their deaths.

Private Alfred Bulpit, 1st/4th Battalion Hampshire Regiment, died 21st January 1916 aged 19

Alfred Bulpit was born in Sherfield on Loddon in 1896. He was the fourth of six children of Charles and Alice Bulpit. The family probably lived in present day Goddards Lane, in a house near Greenway, and from the age of about 15 Alfred and his two elder brothers worked in the family coal business with their father.

Alfred enlisted in Winchester as a territorial soldier soon after the outbreak of war in 1914, aged 18. He probably served with the 1st/4th Battalion Hampshire Regiment in India before entering the theatre of war in Mesopotamia (now Iraq) on 18th March 1915. He was killed in action on 21st January 1916, during the Battle of Umm El Hannah. 106 other ranks of the 1st/4th Battalion were listed as killed and missing on that day. He is commemorated on the Basra Memorial, which makes it likely that his body was not recovered. He was awarded the 1914/15 Star Medal and the British War and Victory Medals.

1.6 million

is needed per week for Welfare Work

Royal British Legion POPPY APPEAL

Thank You, Sherfield

Through your generosity weve raised

2,292.37 A huge thank you to all our collectors,

local businesses and counters

Thanks also to those residents who will add to

our total, having taken the time to Gift Aid.

Natalie Larner Hon. Local Organiser


Miles Elliott

GARDEN MACHINERY

SERVICES

Phone/Fax: 01256 882224 Mobile:07810573479E-mail: [email protected]

Servicing Repairs Tuning

Adjustment Sharpening

Turgis Green

Nows the time for servicing

* No Messy Church in

December *

Friday 15th January

2016

Theme - Epiphany - wow moments!

Lots of craft, worship and tea for the children!

All welcome

4.15 Arrive, Register, prepare for worship

4.30 Worship followed by craft activities

5.15 Meal - cafe style (finish at 5.30pm)

It is essential that you book

(and please advise of any food allergies).

For more information and to book, please contact :

Peta Alvares: [email protected] or on Facebook: messychurchsol

Goddards Lane, Sherfield-on-Loddon, HOOK, Hants. RG27 0EZ

The Garage at Sherfield www.thegarageatsherfield.co.uk

Have

a se

rvice

with

your

MOT

and

get

your

MOT

for

30

MOTs Cars and Motorcycles Service Diagnostics Repairs Air Conditioning Recovery Collection and Delivery service available.

90% of our work is repeat business

Tel: 01256 882271

Mobile: 07812 939 498


WOMENS INSTITUTE

Our November Meeting included our bi-annual Cookery Competition. Doris LEnfant, our President for this months Meeting, thanked Members for their support for the competition which inspired a record number of entries.Tess Morris, our judge, commented that the Competition standard was very high and gave us some extra tips. Doris then presented the cup for Best in Show to Marlene King for her childrens biscuits and the cup for Highest Score -Total Points to Margaret Lee.

Other business included advance warning of the Craft Competition in November 2016, to give everyone plenty of time to prepare. Doris suggested something Christmassy, such as embroidery, painting or cross stitch, or twiddle muffs which hospitals desperately need for dementia patients.

Next meeting: Wednesday 2nd December 2015 in Sherfield Village Hall at 2pm Speaker: Alan Grace - subject: The Words and the Music. Competition: anything musical (scores, pictures etc.)

Find out more about us at: http://hampshirewi.org.uk/wi-page/sherfield-on-loddon-wi/

Ilene Iles

Evergreens Club

This month the Mayor of Basingstoke, Councillor Mrs Anne Court, gave a very interesting talk about her role and what it involves. The mayor is selected by seniority and is in office for one year.

The role is non-political and involves attending council meetings, official openings of events and new facilities, civic occasions such as the remembrance service, and formal dinners. She also talks to clubs and societies in the community, visits schools, and hosts visits to the Mayors parlour.

The Mayor also supports three charities: 1) Inspero works with disadvantaged children to teach them to lead a healthy lifestyle by growing and cooking food from scratch 2) Basingstoke Multicultural Forum which develops understanding between people from different cultures 3) Ark Cancer Centre Charity is raising money for a treatment centre.

We next meet at The Calleva Arms, Silchester on Monday 7th December for our Christmas lunch.

May MacQueen


Contact Roy on 01256 86142

Crime maps 20 October - 19 November www.crimereports.co.uk

Sherfield Park (& Chineham) PC Jim Charlton 21015 and PCSO Nicole Wheatley . james.charlton@ hampshire.pnn.police.uk Beat Surgery 1st weds of each month at the Costa Coffee - Chineham Centre at 16.30 - 17.30.

Bramley and Sherfield-on-Loddon NPT PCSO Nath Johnson 15740 PCSO Damon Hope 15394 Nathaniel.Johnson.15740 @hampshire.pnn.police.uk [email protected]

For both beats, telephone 101 (or leave a message using collar numbers) - please dont report incidents using email.


The Four Horseshoes Old Reading Road Sherfield on Loddon RG27 2EX Tel: 01256 882296

The Four Horseshoes Christmas Party Saturday 19 December 2015

7.30pm - late

Live music from The Swarm Mulled wine and Warm Cider punch Chocolate Fountain Charity Raffle

Free Entry

Open Christmas Day 12 midday Open Christmas Day 12 midday -- 3pm3pm Boxing Day 12 midday Boxing Day 12 midday -- 4 pm4 pm

New Years Eve til late New Years Eve til late -- by invitationby invitation New Years Day breakfast from 10amNew Years Day breakfast from 10am

Borough Councillor update from Taylors Farm/ Sherfield Park

As the year draws to a close it is time to reflect on the huge changes that are about to happen in 2016.

After a lengthy governance review the legal paperwork has been completed and signed off for the creation of our new Parish Council in May 2016. As this is a Borough led reorganisation there will be an interim Sherfield Park Parish Council set up in January and run by the three ward councillors, Councillors Elaine Still, Paul Miller and myself. We will also have an interim clerk to guide and support us. The interim parish clerk vacancy is advertised in this issue - if you enjoy a new challenge, please apply.

Ellen, Chris and I will continue to represent Taylors Farm Ward on Sherfield on Loddon (SOL) Parish Council until the elections in May 2016 when there will be separate elections held for both SOL and the new Parish Council of Sherfield Park - 7 councillors for Sherfield Park and 8 for Sherfield on Loddon. The new Parish Council will work closely with the Sherfield Park Community Association for the benefit of all. We will be arranging a Community Pop Up Caf in the New Year, where residents can come and find out more about how the new Council will work and what is involved in becoming a Parish Councillor.

Back to the present - the building work to join Cufaude Lane to Chineham is ahead of time and should be finished by mid March. Croudace have put a temporary footpath on the other side of the railway line up to Razors Farm and across to the top of Cufaude Lane to allow residents from Bramley access to Chineham whilst this work is in progress.

Finally, I would like to thank all the organisations who have put on such a great variety of events this month - please support them.

I wish you and your families a wonderful Christmas and a peaceful New Year.

Councillor Joyce Bowyer

Easter Art Exhibition

We are again holding an Easter Art Exhibition at St Leonards Church Room on Saturday 26th, Sunday 27th & Monday 28th March and would like to invite local artists to exhibit and sell their work.

For further details, please contact Jane Farrow (01256 882680, Jane.farrow @outlook.com; or Tessa Elphick (01256 882860).

The Big Christingle & Toy Service

Sunday 6th December 2015

At Sherfield Park Community Centre

10.00 a.m.

Come and share in this joyous and hugely popular event which

churches and schools throughout the UK. will be celebrating.

So bring your toys, receive a Christingle, and worship with all ages as

the significance of the Christingle unfolds and we are able, once

again, to support the work of The Childrens Society.

Urgent

Stratfield Saye Residents

Proposed Withdrawal of Bus Service 154

West Berkshire council are consulting on this proposal and it is important that as many responses as possible from affected borough residents are submitted. I would particularly draw residents attention to the comment from the Council stating that the authority must also have particular regard to the transport needs of members of the public who are elderly, disabled or those that may live in rural areas and have no means of transport themselves. The proposals can be viewed at http://info.westberks.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=31610 and there is a link to submit your response at the bottom of the page (Take part in this consultation).

If you are unable to do this and wish to respond please contact me or one of the Parish Councillors to register your views.

Penny Mayo (0118 933 2379, [email protected])

ASH BROOK INDEPENDANT FUNERAL DIRECTORS & MEMORIAL CONSULTANTS

Independent family Funeral Director

Day or night we provide a complete personal, caring & professional service for all your funeral requirements

Dignified funeral service 895 plus disbursements

Please call Terina on 0118 9821111 28 Mulfords Hill, Tadley, Hants, RG26 3JE

www.ashbrookfunerals.co.uk


Village Hall Matters Sherfield on Loddon Village Hall

Reg. Charity No. 272385

Tel: 07468 427684

Email: [email protected]

LOOKING FOR A VENUE?

If youre looking for a venue for your party, wedding reception, business or social event, then look no further! Sherfield Village Hall has recently undergone extensive refurbishment and offers a splendid setting. Superb ceiling roof beams give the hall an impressive yet intimate atmosphere. It has great facilities including modular staging, large screen projection, a secure, enclosed garden, ample car parking, disabled access and a resident caretaker. It also has a fully licensed bar. Visit our website for more information or contact our Hall Manager, Wendy Gosden, on 07468 427684.

FUNDRAISING

Do you enjoy the functions at the village hall? Or are you new to the village? Get involved by joining The Friends of Sherfield Village Hall. As a charity, the only regular income the Hall has is from its hiring fees so donations and fundraising events are vital to maintain the Hall. Regular events include a Barn Dance in January and the Sherfield Beer Festival in September. We also have "Hog the Limelight" events sponsored by Hampshire County Council. Fresh ideas for events and volunteers to help with events are always welcome! If you would like to help out please contact Alan Ball on 01256 883838.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

Sat 5th December Clive Fortune Big Band Sat 30th January Barn Dance

Please dont forget the Village Coffee Morning on the 2nd Saturday of each month at 10.30am in the Garden Room. All welcome.

For more information on activities, events & booking the hall, visit:

www.sherfieldvillagehall.co.uk At the heart of our community for over 100 years


CHRISTMAS TREES,

WREATHS and other

decorations at

West Green Road, Hartley Wintney

RG27 8LP We will also have our Honey, Homemade Jams and Christmas Pudding Ice cream CALL 01252 845772 from Nov 1st for information and to place orders, or visit www.westgreenfruits.com

St Marys Hartley Wespall Meet and Greet

On Sunday 1st November members of the congregation had the chance to meet our new Priest in Charge Stephen and his wife Lorna.

Stephen told us about his background and how his life has been devoted to Christ in so many different ways.

There was then a chance for individuals to chat to Stephen and Lorna over coffee and biscuits before we went outside to view our car park which has had GP Flex (Tenax) laid over its entire surface. Stephen ended his visit by dedicating the car park and praying for St Marys and the community.

We are indebted to the Friends of Hartley Wespall who provided the bulk of the funds to make this possible.

Sherfield Village Hall Fundraiser

WINTER BARN DANCE

with popular Diatonics Ceilidh Band

Saturday 30th

Jan 2016

8:00pm -11:45pm

15 inc. Fish & Chip Supper

[email protected]

The SHOP in SHERFIELD

Box Office & table reservations: 01256 880075

Reg. Charity No. 272385

Christmas Food Boxes for Basingstoke 2015

Each year Basingstoke Voluntary Action appeals to individuals, businesses and organisations to join us in

providing Christmas Food Boxes for those less fortunate than ourselves. The generous response last year meant that we were able to supply refuges, families and homeless centres in Basingstoke and Deane with food boxes filled with Christmas goodies.

This year we are looking for donations of food or food boxes (please note however that we cannot accept any donations of alcohol or food containing alcohol). We also need empty photocopy paper boxes, sticky tape, wrapping paper, and volunteers to help distribute boxes. If you have any free time and would like to join us between Monday 7 th and Tuesday 22nd December we would love to hear from you.

If you or your company would like to donate money please contact [email protected] or make cheques payable to Basingstoke Voluntary Action and clearly write on the back Christmas Appeal

We will gratefully accept donations from Monday 30th November to Monday 14th December, between 9am and 4 pm, at Basingstoke Voluntary Action, The Orchard, White Hart Lane, Basingstoke RG21 4AF. Alternatively, call us to arrange a collection. For all queries please contact Natascha Shepherd on 01256 423816, or email [email protected]

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From all at

St Leonards Sherfield on Loddon,

St Marys Hartley Wespall

and St Marys Stratfield Saye

A very happy and

blessed Christmas

to you all

May the joy of the angels,

the eagerness of the shepherds,

the perseverance of the wise men,

the obedience of Joseph and Mary

and the peace of the Christ Child

be yours this Christmas.

Special Christmas Services

Please come and join us! All welcome

Sunday 6th December

10.00am Christingle & Toy Service

Sherfield Park Community Centre

Sunday 13th December

5.00pm Carol Service, St Marys Hartley Wespall

Sunday 20th December

4.30pm Carol Service, St Marys Stratfield Saye

6.00pm Carol Service at St Leonards

Christmas Eve

4.00pm Crib Service at St Leonards

(Please come dressed as a shepherd or angel!)

10.30pm Holy Communion, St Marys Hartley Wespall

11.00pm Midnight Holy Communion at St Leonards

Christmas Day

10.00am Family Service, St Marys Hartley Wespall

10.30am Family Service, St Leonards

11.00am Holy Communion by extension, St Marys Stratfield Saye

Candlelit CarolsCandlelit CarolsCandlelit Carols

at St. Leonardsat St. Leonardsat St. Leonards

Sunday Sunday Sunday

December 20thDecember 20thDecember 20th

at 6 pmat 6 pmat 6 pm

A service for the A service for the A service for the whole familywhole familywhole family

Faster Broadband in Stratfield Turgis and Bottle Lane

Despite some extensive lobbying, currently there are no plans to bring faster broadband to Stratfield Turgis.

Your Parish Meeting has organised an open forum to discuss our options and decide on a way forward. All residents of Stratfield Turgis are welcome especially

Hartley Wespall residents in Bottle Lane, which is on the same exchange cabinet.

Meet upstairs in the Jekyll and Hyde on Thursday 3rd December at 8pm.

Working from home, streaming catch up TV & movies, free phone calls with VOIP. real time gaming, streaming music and radio, smart homes, cloud

computing, increased property values, enhanced education opportunities.

www.stratfieldturgis.org.uk

St Leonards Church Room is available for hire

The new church room is a light modern space with a professional kitchen and toilet facilities. Suitable for meetings or childrens parties!

For more information about hiring please contact:

[email protected] / 01256 882788

The Loddon Valley Link Needs You!

The Loddon Valley Link Church and Village Magazine is looking for more editors - we need at least one more but it would be wonderful to have two. The role is voluntary and unpaid but its a great opportunity to:

get involved in your local church and village communities

gain experience of publishing a magazine

improve your IT expertise (Microsoft Publisher, Photoshop and others)

If you are interested in taking this on or would like to know more about what it involves please contact a member of the editorial team (contact details on p. 62) or simply email [email protected]

Lighten Our Darkness

Now that the winter is with us take great care to look out for cyclists when driving at night and give them plenty of room. Cyclists do not have the same protection which you have in a vehicle and even relatively minor contact can seriously injure them.

Cyclists, remember that drivers sometimes find it difficult to see you in the dark, and that they may not understand why you adopt the primary position on the road, which involves cycling well away from the kerb. Always use lights after dark, and wear light coloured or better still reflective clothing and/or accessories in the dark to increase your visibility

The Priory Primary School Christmas Bazaar

The Parents Association of Priory Primary School (Pamber End) is holding their Christmas Bazaar (5th December, 1pm - 4pm). Activities include making new Christmas tree decorations, sipping a glass of mulled wine, studying the details of hand crafted goods, picking up Christmas presents, taking down the snowmen with a loaded Nerf gun - there will be something for everyone to enjoy!

SHERFIELD PARK MATTERS

Shops: Sherfield Park Community Association (SPCA) has embarked on discussions with some business groups interested in leasing its two retail units next to to the Community Centre. They will become available next autumn, A survey of local residents has shown preferences for a convenience store style shop, followed by a caf and a medical practice of some sort. Earlier issues of the Loddon Valley Link listed SPCA criteria for choosing the right business for the Community. However, further questions and indications of interest are still welcome and should be addressed to the SPCA at: [email protected].

Note: The SPCA still wishes to hear from any members of the community willing and able to assist with associated legal and commercial issues relating to the new shops.

SPCA Secretary: Mr Graham Ling has agreed to fill the post of Secretary to the SPCA. Confirmation of this appointment by the SPCA AGM, 28th November 2015, is anticipated.

Road works connecting Cufaude Lane into Sherfield Park have started at a cracking pace. As a result there is disruption for residents and local traffic but it is hoped that all of the associated work can be completed well within the 12-month Cufaude Lane closure timescale authorised by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council (B&DBC).

Light Up Sherfield Park? Yes, thats right! This is the name of a new fun competition with big prizes for the best dressed homes. Many neighbours are planning to make the community even more beautiful this December by decorating their homes with festive illuminations. If you would like to enter the competition, or just cast your vote for the best display, then either call in at the Sherfield Park Community Centre for an

entry form or download one from the SPCA website, and follow the instructions on the entry form. To give you a better chance of winning there are three categories from which to choose and the winners will be

Page 38

announced on 23rd December. So, what are you waiting for? Oh, and by the way - good luck!

Easy Fundraising: with Christmas just around the corner no doubt many of you are planning a lot of shopping. If you use online shopping for groceries or presents, then please consider supporting the Community Centre at the same time at no cost to yourselves. Too good to be true? Not at all! There is, of course, a website: www.easyfundraising.org.uk, with an app for those of you with smart phones) that acts as the search engine (and of course you can support this magazine there too - Ed.). This will direct you to the website of your chosen retailer and then, after specifying your nominated cause (in this case the Sherfield Park Community Centre), just carry on shopping as usual. Your retailer will allocate a cash sum, either a fixed amount or sometimes a percentage of what you actually spend. If you get stuck theres an information button. You can also donate when you book holidays, and generate significant, much-needed, donations for your community. Remember, the SPCA is a registered charity - so the more we raise the more we get back to spend in the community for the benefit of all.

Community Centre Loft Conversion Project: those who attended the SPCA AGM in late November, or generally keep an ear to the ground, will be aware that the SPCA has received a B&DBC grant to enable it to convert large amounts of Community Centre loft space into additional function rooms available for hire. Extra rooms will greatly assist the SPCA to cater for the rapidly growing demand for activity spaces and should also act as a catalyst for even further community development. A design proposal is being submitted to B&DBC for its approval (by architects acting on behalf of the SPCA) and it is hoped that the SPCA will be able to invite tenders from suitably qualified building contractor in the not too distant future.

Updates on these and other exciting topics will feature in the Loddon Valley Link as they progress. And remember, residents are most welcome to attend SPCA Committee meetings at the Sherfield Park Community Centre on the last Wednesday of the month at 8 pm. We hope to see you there!

Howard Perkins

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FENCING

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FREE ESTIMATES AND ADVICE

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Mobile: 07780 990361 Web Site: www.bobberryfencing.co.uk - email: [email protected]

Our second October meeting was a discussion

on the freedom of the press. The topic was decided on in January following the horrific attack on the offices of Charlie Hebdo in Paris a few days beforehand - described by Ian Hislop as a murderous attack on free speech. Whilst many Middle-Eastern countries condemned the attack, China called for limits on

press freedom. The British government said it supported a free press and the right to write what people believed, but radical Islamists

supported the attack, arguing that it insulted Mohammed.

Press censorship has always been around as there have always been rulers who wanted to control the communication of information. With the advent of printing, censorship became more important. We

watched a video lecture about the First World War by Frank Gardner (a war correspondent badly injured in Saudi Arabia). Initially the War Office, in an effort to keep up public morale, forbade journalists from

the front line. Anyone convicted of divulging information which might be of use to the enemy faced the death penalty. However, journalists such

as Philip Gibbs of the Daily Chronicle risked their lives to get information. The government relaxed its attitude a little in

1915, but censorship was still heavily applied.

We split into groups for discussion on various topics associated with press censorship. Firstly, censorship and children - should the media be censored for impressionable young minds? Or should children

know about issues in the world? Should censorship be applied to religious matters in an effort to be sensitive? (the conclusion was that religion should be strong enough to withstand criticism). For matters

of national security there needs to be a sensible approach. Sometimes it is dangerous to divulge too much, but on the other hand censorship can lead to serious abuses of power. We then heard how free the

press is in ten countries. Finland is number one, and the second in our list was Sweden (fifth). The UK comes in at 34 with France, South Africa and the USA not far behind us. At the bottom were Palestine,

Russia and China. It was a very interesting, well presented, evening.

Our November meeting was our annual quiz and the theme was art. It was one of the more challenging quizzes! In December we will hold

our Christmas party.

Gill Fearon

Freedom of the press

December Update Sherfield-on-Loddon Parish Council

Meeting dates

The next Full Parish Council meeting dates are 9 December 2015 and 13 January 2016 (7.30 pm in the Liddell Hall).

Village Agent volunteer vacancy

Can you offer a few hours a week to help the local community? Our existing Village Agent, Glen, is looking for a second Agent to assist in this scheme run by Age Concern Hampshire. See the article on p. 48 for further details.

Children Starting School in September 2016?

If you have children who will be 4 years old between 1st September 2015 and 31st August 2016, visit www.hants.gov.uk/admissions for information about registering your child to start school in 2016. The deadline for sending in applications is 15th January 2016.

Catherine Ryle - Clerk to the Parish Council, Sherfield-on-Loddon, PO Box 6862, Basingstoke RG24 4QZ. 01256 842662, : [email protected]

Wills Garden Services Tel: 07951917943/01256 881354


A complete range of garden services:

Garden clearance, Mowing,

Hedgetrimming, Paving, Pruning,

Fencing, Turfing, Tree Care


Basingstoke Civil Service Retirement Fellowship

52 members and 1 visitor attended the monthly meeting held on Wednesday 4th November. Our talk was The Life and Legend of Mary Queen of Scots by Gordon Massie. He traced her life story from her birth at Linlithgow Palace in December 1542. She was the daughter of James V of Scotland and Mary of Guise and became Queen of Scotland at six days old, following the death of her father. As a child she was sent to France and in 1558 married the Dauphin, Francis. She was briefly Queen of France but Francis died in 1560, after which Mary returned to Scotland. She had two further husbands - Lord Darnley (who fathered her son, the future James VI and I of England), and Earl Bothwell. As a Catholic contender for the throne of England she was under house arrest for twenty years, and after she was implicated in a plot to assassinate Elizabeth I she was executed at Fotheringhay Castle in February 1587, on Elizabeths orders.

CSRF meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Brookvale Village Hall from 10 am - 12 noon; all retired Civil Servants and their partners are welcome.

At the next meeting on 2nd December there will be Christmas Entertainment with The Purple People followed by a buffet lunch.

A full programme of events is planned for 2016 including talks covering such subjects as Afghanistan, Antarctica, Hollywood, Liverpool, Mervyns Coaches, Women in World War One, the CAB and Canine Partners. Outings are planned to Winchester, Cadbury World, Wisley, Brooklands, Lymington, The Kennet & Avon Canal, Braemore House and the BBC in London.

Further details about the meetings and trips can be obtained from the Secretary Tony Brazier on 01256 418770 or at [email protected] and Kate Lambeth on 01256 328791.

David Cowling

Village Agents Needed in Your Community!

There are 60 Village Agents in rural communities all over Hampshire. If you are interested in taking part in your local community, and helping older people to remain independent Age Concern Hampshire needs you to be the next Village Agent.

Village Agents are local people who offer a few hours a week of their time to help older people to access information, advice, and local services. They provide a face-to-face contact point for people who are less likely to use the telephone or internet to access information. They are also trained to provide a basic home fire safety survey on behalf of the Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service.

The Village Agent programme has been running since 2011 and has been highly successful in helping to reduce social isolation and loneliness in older people. It enables them to access resources that they need and assists them to engage with their local communities.

Age Concern Hampshire is pleased to run this project in partnership with Hampshire County Council and Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service. It is fully funded and supported by Hampshire County Council.

If you would like to get involved and have some time to offer or know anybody else who might be interested, please get in touch today! Call Gail Allen, Village Agent co-ordinator, on 01962 892443 or Freephone 0800 328 7154 or email [email protected]. Alternatively you can download an application form, and find out about our many other volunteering opportunities, on our website: www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk/get-involved/volunteer-for-us/.


I am a nationally registered Counsellor & Psychotherapist based in Sherfield-on-Loddon offering both long and short-term therapy whatever your particular personal issue may be. You can expect a professional, one-to-one service in a safe, non-judgemental and completely confidential environment with appointment times to suit your needs. Please visit my website for full details at www.philgilestherapy.com or telephone me on 0118 328 2393. If you prefer, you can also e-mail me at [email protected] Take the first step in finding the help and support you need by contacting me for a free, no obligation assessment.

Phil Giles Therapy

Committed to helping you

I am a nationally registered Counsellor & Psychotherapist based in Sherfield-on-Loddon offering both long and short-term therapy whatever your particular personal issue may be. You can expect a professional, one-to-one service in a safe, non-judgemental and completely confidential environment with appointment times to suit your needs. Please visit my website for full details at www.philgilestherapy.com or telephone me on 0118 328 2393. If you prefer, you can also e-mail me at [email protected] Take the first step in finding the help and support you need by contacting me for a free, no obligation assessment.

Phil Giles Therapy

Committed to helping you

Stratfield Saye Parish Council

Village Hall Update

As many will already be aware the Parish Council were very happy to received a grant from the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Local Infrastructure fund which, together with other funds available, has allowed them to install a new modern heating boiler in the Village Hall. The remainder of the funds available will allow the Parish Council to install a new cesspit at the recreation ground and thus reopen the kitchen and toilets in the Pavilion. The Parish Council would like to thank B&DBC for their support as without it such a small parish would be unable to maintain its facilities.

Penny Mayo, Stratfield Saye Parish Clerk

Stratfield Saye update

Here are some dates for your diary.

The next coffee morning will be on the 7th December at 11o'clock as usual. As it will be the last coffee morning before Christmas, we will be making a few changes. There will be mince pies, crackers, Christmas fruit cake and biscuits or a piece of fruit (apples or satsumas) for those who don't like fruit cake. This is a small gesture due to the Christmas lunch this year being cancelled because of ill health.

The defibrillator has been fitted to the wall of the Iron Duke; it is in full working order and fully accessible. A huge thanks to James and Matthew for allowing this to be done. In the event that you need to use it, call 999 and the operator will give you the code for the door. Hopefully it will not be required. Now we have this resource in the village, we can ask Heart Start to come along and shows how to use it. Please contact me (01189 333230 / [email protected]), Suzie Nixon or Penny Mayo and we can coordinate with Heart Start to set a time and place.

The next Council meeting will be on 7th December at 7.30. Please come along and tell us what you think.

Happy Christmas to you all.

Jean Carruthers

Sherfield and District Gardening Club

There will be no speaker at our December meeting on the 14 th as we will be having our annual Christmas party.

Our 2016 programme begins on January 18th with a talk from Kevin Hobbs who will be telling us about Piet Oldoufs Gardens. Kevin has been a professional grower and plantsman for close to thirty years and is now the Wholesale Nursery Director for Hillier Nurseries. The subject of our talk, Piet Oudolf, is an

influential Dutch garden designer, nurseryman and author, and a leading figure of the "New Perennial" movement, using bold drifts of herbaceous perennials and grasses which are chosen as much for their structure as for their flower colour. Some of you may have visited our closest Piet Oldouf garden at Bury Court, Bentley.

We are currently looking for people to share the effort required to keep the Gardening Club running. If you are able to give any of your time, however small, please have a word with Vanessa or Linda.

Anyone interested in gardening will be most welcome to join us at the Sherfield Village Hall at 7:45pm. For arrangements contact Linda on 882341 or Vanessa on 881760

THE STRATFIELD SAYE EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION (Grants for Children and Young People)

The Foundation was established by George Pitt in 1739 and provides grants for children and young people under 18 in the parishes of Stratfield Saye and Beech Hill. The Trustees would like to encourage parents of Stratfield Saye and Beech Hill to make use of this historic charity. All claims, with accompanying receipts, for extra curricular activities, where not provided by the Local Education Authority will be considered sympathetically. The grant is not means-tested and is available for activities such as music and swimming tuition, residential and study courses, textbooks and special equipment.

Applications for grants must be sent to James Hare, Stratfield Saye Estates, Estate Office, Stratfield Saye, near Reading, RG7 2BT, not later than 31st December 2016.

All activities must be booked in advance. Tel: 01256 883967 or email

[email protected] or visit

www.sherfieldparkcommunity.co.uk

OVER 55s CHRISTMAS

DINNER

2 course festive meal

Wednesday 9th Dec 7.30pm Tickets 8

Licensed Cash Bar

MUST BE BOOKED IN ADVANCE (limited availability)

CHRISTMAS FAIR Saturday 12th December

2pm - 5pm

Stalls selling gifts, homemade produce, candles, toiletries and more! Santa's Grotto Children's games and crafts Carol singing from Theatre4Kids Christmas caf selling festive refreshments Free entry (charge for grotto/games/cafe)

CINDERELLA A fantastic Christmas Panto for all the family brought to you by

Pyramid Pantomimes!

Sunday 6th December 3pm - 4.30pm

Tickets 8 adults, 6 children (Under 2s free but must sit on adults lap)

Advance bookings only as spaces limited

CAROLS AROUND THE TREE

Friday 18th Dec 6-7pm

Join us for our annual festive sing song around our lovely Christmas tree with a glass of mulled wine

and a mince pie! Suitable for all ages.

No need to book, just turn up and sing!

FUNERAL DIRECTORS & MONUMENTAL MASONS.

ALEXANDER & DRY

Twenty four hour service.

Pre-paid funeral plans available.

1 Seal Road, Basingstoke, RG21 7NQ

Tel: 01256 844663


Happy Faces Play group

Sherfield-on-Loddon Bring your happy face to our

happy place

A small, friendly playgroup for children aged 2 years 6 months to

school age

Flexible Sessions including all day

Further information:

01256 880903

Prospectus/application form:

07791 141176

[email protected] www.happy-faces-playgroup.co.uk

Est. 1982. Charity No. 1029688

Page 54

T: 01256 242135

M: 07990 814143

YOUR LOCAL TRADE PROFESSIONAL FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING, HEATING &

ELECTRICAL NEEDS

FOR MORE DETAILS PLEASE CONTACT US: Tel: 01256 880044 MOBILE: 07754 554554

Email: [email protected] www.pscservices.co.uk

PLUMBING & HEATING SPECIALIST

Bathrooms & shower installations

Solar thermal installations and energy-friendly controls

Gas Safe and Oftec registered for peace of mind with gas and oil installations

29164

Serving the local community for 30 years

Telephone: 01256 882309




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HOUSE CLEANING BY MARIA. Reliable and affordable service. Friendly, experienced lady who cleans every corner. Ironing also available. References. Tel 07933 316989. [email protected]

LOCAL PROFESSIONAL INTERIOR and EXTERIOR DECORATOR First class job guaranteed. Over 30 years experience. No job too small. For a free estimate ring Ian 01256 882132 or 07876021772

SEWING, EXPERIENCED AND CONVENIENT. Di is now back in the conservatory, Sherfield Garden Centre. Bespoke dressmaking, clothing alterations, repairs, curtains & blinds and soft furnishings. 07796 045944.

PC SUPORT. For technical help with PCs, Macs, tablets, internet, wi-fi: repairs, upgrades and installation: Call Ian on 07977 143310.

LOCAL EXPERIENCED TAX ADVISER. Self assessment tax returns, arrears, claims, payroll, self-employed, VAT returns. Initial consultation free. Call 07920112533 or e-mail [email protected]

INSIDE/OUT Property maintenance, carpentry, decorating, locks fitted, garden maintenance. Tel 01256 882696 or 07713 470223. E-mail [email protected]

WINDOW CLEANER. Windows cleaned or gutters cleared - one off or regularly. Local, reliable window cleaner (testimonials available). For a quote call Pete Owen on 07762 616600 [email protected]

WEIGHT LOSS. I lost 5 stones in 5 months; 9 stones in 2 years. AND kept it all off. I now coach others to achieve their weight loss and wellness goals. For your personalised coaching & mentoring contact Gus. 07500554540 or [email protected]

PERSONAL TUITION AND CONVERSATIONAL PRACTICE in: Italian, Spanish, Latin, Ancient Greek, English and Maths. Qualified and Experienced teacher in: Primary, Common Entrance/11 Plus, GCSE, AS/A2, Adult education. E-mail: [email protected] for more details.

DOMICILLARY CARER. Female aged 49. CRB Certified/Carer PL Insurance. Patient and kind offering personal care / companionship to the elderly in their home and respite care. Based south of Reading. Will travel within 10 mile radius. References available. Michelle 07776 255688.

SMALL ADVERTISEMENTS

882605 882426 882337 882534 465214

882334 882414 881973 882798 882798 880903 882426 882350 882534 882106 101 101 101 880075 882210 882687 882344 882605 882341 883967 880075 881021 01189332 379 01189332106 882351 842662 883551 880852 882605 882453 882410 07468 427684 07940 212441 883838

USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS The dialling code is 01256, unless otherwise stated.

Allotments Basingstoke Gazette Brownies St. Leonards Church Breach Lane Chapel Catholic Church Clift Surgery Patient Group Cricket Club (Sherfield) Cricket Club (ST & HW) Evergreens Football (Junior) Happy Faces Playgroup Loddon Players Loddon Quilters Loddon Valley Link Lunch Club. NWR Police - Sherfield local beat officer Police - Sherfield Park Police - report an incident Poppies Post Office Rainbows Sherfield. Community Care Grp Sherfield Fete Sherfield Dist. Gardening Club Sherfield Park Community Centre Sherfield Show Short Mat Bowls Stratfield Saye Parish Council Stratfield Saye Village Hall Stratfield Turgis Parish Meeting Sherfield Parish Council Toddler Group 0-5s Tree Warden. Village Green Volunteers Whist Drive Womens Institute Sherfield Village Hall Caretaker/Bookings Management Committee Fund Raising Committee

Bruce Batting Chris Horton Sue Handasyde-Dick See inside back page Geoff Belsham Fr. Chris Rutledge John Darker Andy Stevens Paul Baldwin Jean Berntsen Fred Berntsen Peggy Hutchins Chris Horton Jacky Morgan (See back pages ) Helen Belsham Gill Fearon PCSO Nath Johnson PC Jim Charlton Police Control Room Natalie Larner Pam Luck Doreen Tosswill Bruce Batting Linda Syckelmoore Candice Wright Natalie Larner Norman Stanley Penny Mayo Linda Bishop Sheila Campbell (Chair) Catherine Ryle (Clerk) Judith Sullivan Jane Jordan Bruce Batting Virgilius Vickers Val Denny Wendy Gosden Ivan Gosden Alan Ball

Please inform the Editor of changes to the above information. Page 61

Loddon Valley Link Management

Editor for the December/January edition Jane Abrams Please submit copy for the February edition no later than the 16th

January Email: [email protected]

Committee: Chairman: Dr. Donald Dawson 01256 882379 ([email protected]) Treasurer: Pip Iles 01256 880559 Secretary: Ilene Iles 01256 880559 ([email protected]) Rev. Stephen Ball Dr. John Williams 01256 882705 ([email protected]) Chris Wright 01246 880436 [email protected] Germano Giugovaz 01189 332166 Claire Osborne 01256 324458 ([email protected]) Simon Boase 01256 881250 ([email protected]) Brian Archer 01256 882099 ([email protected]) Jane Abrams 01256 881188 ([email protected])

Church Officers

Priest in Charge: Rev. Stephen Ball 01256 881071, temporary email [email protected]) (Please note: Stephens day off is Monday) Assistant Priest: Rev. Sammie Armstrong 01189 816593 ([email protected]) Curate (priest responsible for Bramley & Little London: Rev. John Lenton 01256 880570 Licensed Lay Ministers : Richard Elphick 01256 882860 Andrew Doggart 01256 880092 Church Admin: Lisa Goodall 01256 882788 ([email protected])

ST. LEONARDS CHURCH, CHURCH END, SHERFIELD ON LODDON, RG27 0JB (no mail)

Churchwarden: Peter Gould 01256 882538 Churchwarden: Richard Elphick 01256 882860 Treasurer: Dan Farrow 01256 882680

Organist: Mike Abrams 01256 881188 Organist: Brian Archer 01256 882099

ST. MARYS CHURCH, STRATFIELD SAYE Churchwarden: Dr. John Williams 01256 882705 Treasurer: Charles Atkinson 01256 882459 Organist: Dr. Gill Williams 01256 882705

ST. MARYS CHURCH, HARTLEY WESPALL Churchwarden: Pip Iles 01256 880559 Treasurer: Michael Webster 01256 882413 Organist: Dr. Gill Williams 01256 882705 Organist: Andrew Doggart 01256 880092

MESSY CHURCH, SHERFIELD PARK Leader: Peta Alvares 0777 2322202

Page 62

Please note: the Loddon Valley Link Management Committee cannot be held responsible for the reliability or quality

of any goods, work or services in this publication.

ADVERTISING IN THIS MAGAZINE AND ONLINE All advertising enquiries to Pip Iles Tel. 01256 880559

[email protected] Deadline for ads. for next edition is the 10th of the month

Small ads - 5 monthly for a maximum of 30 words, space permitting. Requests are dealt with in order.

Display ads pricing - please see the website or contact Pip Iles.

Loddon Valley Link 201512 - December 2015 - January2016

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