Cowley News The FREE community newspaper for Cowley

MARCH 2016Issue 16

COWLEY NEWs is run by members of the Cowley community. We encourage any resident to get involved in our work. If you would like to get involved with us, or if you have any news or views you like to see in this paper please email:

cowleynewseditor@gmail.com

Oxford City Council Consultation: 18 February to 15 April 2016In a rapidly growing market how should the council ensure that privately rented homes are safe to live in?

To have your say visit:www.oxford.gov.uk/privatesectorhousingpolicy2016Private Sector Housing Policy

Photograph by Hugh Warwick.

Curtain up for Flo Park Panto

The last night of The Florence Park Panto saw the Community Centre packed with friends and neighbours, all there to enjoy the show. TurN TO PagE 3

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Dear Cowley NewsI have just read your September issue which says that St Francis school celebrated their 40th anniversary this year. As my son and daughter both went there and we moved here when Anthony was 5 and Sandra 11months old in 1963 and it wasn’t a new school then, I’m sure you’ll find someone who was there before this.

Jean Gleed

Dear Jean Gleed and anyone else who might have been thinking ‘hang on a minute!’

Thank you for your email regarding the last issue of Cowley News and St Francis school’s 40th anniversary. You’re completely right! The school building is indeed older and used to be an annexe of St Christopher’s school before St Francis primary school moved there 40 years ago.

Kind RegardsCowley News

Dear Cowley NewsI have been buying meat at Alder’s butchers (on the corner of Randolph Street) from the late 1990s. The service is always provided with a smile even if your purchase is just for a couple of pounds. Over the years I got to know Andy the proprietor and began

chatting. What was impressive about Andy was; that when I was involved in the running of the now defunct People’s Supermarket further along the Cowley road, I approached him and asked whether he was prepared to advise the People’s Supermarket on the display and sale of meat and he said yes without batting an eyelid. Although we never got around to using Andy’s expertise, I think it is remarkable that he offered to help us, even though it may have taken some of his business away. Alder’s in addition to providing meat from local farms also sell game. I buy diced venison, local rabbits and more recently lamb – even if Tesco sell theirs at half the price! As you can imagine, the taste in Alder’s lamb is exquisite

and it hasn’t travelled thousands of miles. Even though I live in Headington now, I still make it a point to buy meat from Alder’s regularly. During a recent chat, Andy told me that there has been a Butcher on site from 1937. Isn’t it remarkable that a pre-war business is still carrying on in spite of the competition from Supermarket giants! If you live locally and haven’t so far, why don’t you visit Alder’s and you will find them serving you with a smile and also wearing a tie, very proper indeed!

Anton Saverimuttu

ReAdeRs’ LetteRs

Cowley NewsIssue 16 MARCH 2016

Contributions: Ark T PlaySpacers, Artwell, Gus Bianchini, Richard Chidwick, Helena Clennett, Katerina Clennett, Susan Dias, Paul Freestone, Su Frizzell, Henrietta Gill, Lorraine Jackson, Wendy Markham, Danny Smith, Cait Sweeney.

Listings: Henrietta Gill

Editor: Cait Sweeney

Produced with the support and financial assistance of Oxford Brookes University, local Cowley Councillor John Sanders, Templars Square and The Ark T Centre.

Produced with help by Community Media Groupwww.communitymediagroup.org.uk

Printed by Newbury Weekly News (Printers) Ltd, Newspaper House, Faraday Road, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 2DW.

to ContACt tHe edItoR eMAIL: cowleynewseditor@gmail.com

LetteR fRoM tHe edItoRHello Everyone,I don’t know about you but the year seems to be galloping by and here we are at Spring already! Another glorious Flo’ Park Panto Season has been and gone, with the seeds for the next one well and truly planted! What a brilliantly entertaining and talented community we live in! Spring! The time for new things and planting as our column Gardening with Gus can reliably inform you. And along with new things; the Ark T Centre is delighted to welcome their new director Emmy O’Shaughnessy. For those who don’t already know; Cowley News is also based at Ark T and we are really looking forward to running some FREE tasty community media training sessions in March for anyone who has an interest in community journalism and contributing to our hyper local paper, with an innovative and multi-disciplinary approach to learning you will also have the chance to develop your skills with some further training. This is a wonderful opportunity not to be missed, please do get in touch with us for more information at: cowleynewseditor@gmail.comWe look forward to hearing from you!Best wishes

Cait and the Cowley News Team

City CounCillors Mohammed Abbasi—Labour, Cowley Marsh(Lord Mayor) 07889 867931 and 01865 792250E: cllrmabbasi@oxford.gov.ukSurgery details: 5–6pm, first Monday of each month at the Regal Community Centre, Ridgefield Rd. 6–7pm, first Monday of each month at Morris Motors Social Club, Crescent Rd.

Pat Kennedy—Labour, Lye Valley 07917 837693 and 01865 243284E: cllrpkennedy@oxford.gov.uk

Ben lloyd shogbesan—Labour, Lye Valley

01865 453005 E: Cllrblloyd-shogbesan@oxford.gov.uk

Christine simm—Labour, Cowley 07791 749652 E: cllrcsimm@oxford.gov.uk

sajjad Malik—Labour, Cowley Marsh 07787 874683 E: cllrsmalik@oxford.gov.uk

John tanner—Labour, Littlemore 01865 251441 E: cllrrjtanner@oxford.gov.uk

Gill sanders—Labour, Littlemore 01865 761856 E: cllrgsanders@oxford.gov.uk

David Henwood—Labour, Cowley 07958 299767

E: cllrdhenwood@oxford.gov.ukSurgeries: 7 March, 11am–12 noon in Templars Square, and 12.15–1pm in Florence Park Community Centre.4 April, 11 am–12 noon in Templars square, and 12.15–1pm in Florence Park Community Centre.

County CounCillorsJamila Azad—Labour, St Clements and Cowley Marsh21 Reliance Way, OX4 2FG 01865 771561 E: jamila.azad@oxfordshire.gov.uk

liz Brighouse—Labour, Churchill and Lye ValleyWillow Bank Old Road, Headington OX3 8TA

01865 766995 E: liz.brighouse@oxfordshire.gov.uk

Gill sanders—Labour, Rose Hill and Littlemore 01865 761856 E: cllrgsanders@oxford.gov.uk

John sanders—Labour, Cowley 200 Headington Road, Oxford OX3 7PS 01865 761856 E: john.sanders@oxfordshire.gov.uk

steve Curran—Labour, Leys88 Fairacres Road, Oxford OX4 1TG 01865 727824E: val.smith@oxfordshire.gov.uk

YouR LoCAL CounCILLoRs

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suPErmarkETs have become a great place for local charities to fundraise, here are just a few recent successes at the Heyford Hill Sainsbury’s. The Oxford Jubilee Brass Band that rehearses regularly at Cowley United Reformed Church raised a total of £595.77 and entertained shoppers with a fantastic medley of Christmas carols and seasonal songs. Linda Sadler said “We really appreciate Sainsbury’s agreeing to this type of fundraising for the band as it helps enormously. The money will be put to good use prompting the engagement of the

younger members and buying new music over the coming year. The Oxford Isis Rotary Club came into the store to raise awareness and collect for the charity ‘Porch’ who run the Steppin’ Stone Centre in Cowley, providing day long support

for homeless and vulnerably housed people wanting to move forward in their lives, away from street life and addiction. They were delighted to have collected over £800 which went towards offering dinner to over 30 people on Christmas day, Jon Fitzpatrick, the Porch Director was over the moon! Mike Greenwood from the Oxford Isis Rotary Club said: “We hope you can say a massive THANK YOU to all who donated!”

If you have a local charity you would like to fundraise for at Sainsbury’s please email Sharon Hulbert at: hro.heyfordhill@sainsburys.co.uk

Would you like to advertise in Cowley News ?Email us at: cowleynewseditor@gmail.com

Volunteers!We are looking for contributors and distributorsfor our next issue.

if you are interested please email the editor at cowleynewseditor@gmail.com

Fundraising news from sainsburys

Cowley News 3

By Christine Simm

ThE last night of The Florence Park Panto saw the Community Centre packed with friends and neighbours, all there to enjoy the show. And what a show it was! This year the talented folk of Florence Park staged ‘Sleeping Beauty’, a happy tale of love lost and love regained. We met heroes and villains, the good, the bad and some of the most convincing zombies I have ever seen! But there is redemption eventually, when even the evil Carabosse repents her wicked ways, played by the amazing Jenny Yeong, whose body and gestures seemed to fill the whole stage and brought Kate Bush to mind. Princess Aurora – Nell Hook, and Prince Orlando – Stella Bell, were our suitably demure and charming princess and prince; I was delighted that they sang a few bars of ‘Heroes’, a tribute to the much mourned David Bowie. Their reunion - which wasn’t really a reunion, but a wakening after one hundred years of sleep for Auroroa, and blessed happenstance for the grandson of the original Orlando, was sweet and touching. There was so much laughter – we have some really talented comic actors in our midst. Betty and Batty, played by Teresa Heapy and Emma Webb were hilarious, and I loved the Palace servants, mumbling and grumbling their way through the day. The set was magnificent, a huge effort by many, many local people. It was described to me as “painting by numbers” but it was clearly so much more than that – the overall effect was breathtaking. And the music! Directed by Sue Grote; it was a joy from the opening overture to the lusty sing song at the end. What talent and such verve. After the performance I said to some of the cast that it was the best night out I had had in ages, and it really was – everyone deserves huge congratulations and thanks, especially Emma Webb, the Director, and Viv Peto, the producer. The Panto is now an annual tradition for Florence Park, and I for one can’t wait for next year’s production.

Florence Park Community Association Panto 2016

Photograph by Hugh Warwick.

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4 Cowley News

By Helena Clennett

TO CaLL Mrs. Smith’s initiative a ‘soup kitchen’ is a bit of a misnomer. On the day I visited, the menu sounded like something you might pay for in a restaurant, consisting of soup and a main course of either roast pork, stuffed mushrooms or paprika chicken. Giving her patrons good quality meals and service are of utmost importance to her. “I start preparing at 8am. We want to make this like a home from home for the people who come. We have a good menu and nicely set tables with good plates and cutlery. This last Wednesday we had 50 people, I don’t know what would happen if we weren’t here.” said Mrs. Smith. Mrs. Icolyn Smith MBE, 84, has been running her kitchen serving hot lunches to the homeless population of Oxford at the Asian Cultural Centre, off Manzil Way, for the past 26 years. It has been largely self funded, plus various sporadic donations. Oxford City Council helped for a short time but haven’t given The Icolyn Smith Foundation a grant since 2010. In fact, at one point they suggested that the reason for this was because initiatives like hers encouraged rough sleeping. “Oxford City Council doesn’t want to know. But what about the homelessness problem in other parts of the country-do I encourage that too?” questioned Mrs. Smith incredulously.

“We are running out of money. I estimate it costs me £1300 a month to pay the rent on the room we use (£600 per month) and buy the food.” she explained. The charity has been given

some donations by companies like Waitrose, Completely Care Ltd, a recruitment agency based in Botley, and Merton College, but it isn’t enough. Mrs. Smith suggests she needs around £10, 000 by the end of the year to keep the kitchen running on Wednesdays and Saturdays. “Food, love and company. That is what life is, it’s what people need, so what we do, it is very important.” stressed Mrs. Smith. “This is my second family, I worry about them, think about them, I pray that they find peace and get through each night.” Mickey is originally from Italy but has been in Oxford for almost 20 years. He has been coming to the kitchen for two years, has been homeless for a year, and is currently living in a park in Oxford. “It is wonderful here – the people, the family, the welcome. These places are so essential. I believe without them there would be an increase in street begging, shoplifting and more unhealthy people too. Where will people go if places like this close? I would ask anyone to please do what they can to help keep this place open.”

Mrs.Smith’s kitchen also provide sleeping bags and clothing donations which are equally important to people in Mickey’s situation. “Homeless people feel rejected by society” explained Mickey “Often people in the street avoid looking at you. I’ve had people tell me I don’t look homeless – well, that is because of things like clothing donations. I may live in a park and not have a job now, but being clean and looking tidy is still a priority for me. Places like this make you feel you belong back in society.” Along with funding, the kitchen also needs more volunteers. “I need at least two more people, particularly on Wednesdays” said Mrs. Smith “I really need someone who will make a long term commitment and will be able to run things if I can’t be here.” Len Marshall, 12, from Botley had come for his second stint at helping out in the kitchen “I’m enjoying it” he said “I like it and I want to come back.” His dad, Peter, was also helping out and said “It’s a good thing and offers a welcome refuge for people.

I brought my son along because he had felt nervous about homeless people and we hoped this would help, and we wanted to volunteer too.” Oxford University students Izzy and Philip, both 19, have just started helping out at the kitchen “They do a really good job helping people” said Izzy, “I think if people saw the amount of work she puts in, they would want to give more” agreed Philip. In November 2015 Oxford City council claimed 39 people were sleeping on the streets of Oxford, increasing from 26 a year earlier. The council is reducing their homelessness budget along with various other sectors due to government cuts, so the concern amongst homeless people and those who help them is that the problem will increase as services get cut. So if you are reading this and you can give some money or time, Mrs. Smith and her patrons need you “If anybody out there can help, we are here and we need donations. As long as God gives me strength and breath in my body, I’ll keep doing this.”

FooD, love AnD CoMPAny: Can you help save Mrs smith’s kitchen?

For more information go to www.icolynsmithfoundation.co.uk

Photograph by Katerina Clennett.

Photograph by Katerina Clennett.

Cowley News 5

Thanks to Ruskin College for sponsoring this page. If you are interested in studying at Ruskin College please call 01865 759600 or visit www.ruskin.ac.uk

ADVERTISEMENTS

By Cait Sweeney

havINg wished James Grote a fond farewell and much success in his new role as a chaplain at Katherine House Hospice near Banbury, the Ark T Centre in Crowell Road Cowley has been delighted to welcome their new director Emmy O’Shaughnessy who started at the beginning of the year. Coming from a background in community arts and youth work, Emmy also spent some time in Berlin using theatre as a way to engage unemployed young adults. She said “This was the first time I experienced the arts as a vehicle for social change and personal transformation.” Having worked with an eclectic mix of community groups within a broad range of settings she said “I strongly believe that everyone is creative and has the right to make art, express themselves and voice their responses, emotional, spiritual and psychological, to the world within them and around them. I want to channel my

experience, knowledge of the sector, passion and vision into the Ark T Centre because I believe it possesses enormous potential to develop into a leading community arts centre, developing a space and programme that pioneer new ways of creatively engaging with, and inspiring communities.” Having grown up in Wheatly and now living in Littlemore Emmy said “I live locally and love Cowley, I feel immensely privileged to be in the position of supporting the community through the arts, the team at Ark T work incredibly hard and are an inspiration to work with. I believe that that Cowley and the surrounding areas are facing unprecedented hardships. It is in times like these, where centres for the arts and community become catalysts for hope and new possibilities. I am excited and energised by the prospect of leading the Ark T Centre and the community it serves on this journey.”

Emmy can be contacted at: emmy@ark-t.org

introducing emmy o’shaughnessy, the Ark t Centre’s new director

Higher Education coursesBusiness and Social EnterpriseHistoryLawSocial and Political StudiesSocial WorkTrade Union StudiesYouth Work and Community DevelopmentWriting for Performance (includes Creative Writing)

Access to Higher Education DiplomasHealth Professions (preparation for Nursing, Midwifery, Physiotherapy)

Social Science (preparation for Social Science, Social Work and Youth Work and Community Development)

10 week courses (evening classes available)Preparing for Further StudyHealth ProfessionsSocial Care

Short coursesBusiness and Enterprise

Equality and DiversitySocial Psychology

Sociology

Free weekly and residential courses (up to Level 2)MathsEnglish

For more information call Hannah on 01865 759604, email enquiries@ruskin.ac.uk

or visit www.ruskin.ac.uk and click on the Courses @Ruskin tab

Career opportunities forelectricians/surveyors · carpenters · gas engineers ·plumbers · HGV/LGV drivers · refuse collectors · street cleaningoperatives · roadworkers · vehicle technicians · gardeners ·landscape gardeners · arborists · grounds maintenanceoperatives and apprenticeships (16 to 20 year-olds)

Recruitment Open EveningWednesday 20 April 20165pm to 8pmOxford City Council Direct ServicesMarsh Road Depot, Cowley, OX4 2HH

� Meet our staff� Get advice on applying for jobs in the Council� Apply for current or future vacancies� Help with completion of our application forms� Join our waiting list

There wil be another open-day later in the year

Details at www.oxford.gov.uk/dsrecruitmentE: directservicesadmin@oxford.gov.ukT: 01865 252959

Building a world-class city for everyone

Photograph by Hannah Bruce.

6 Cowley News Cowley News 7March 2016

By Gus Bianchini

Just recently it looked and felt like living in one of the southern states of America; our ninth storm, this one’s called “Imogen” how nice for the meteorologists to give them names, almost friendly! We’ve had plenty of rain and strong winds, as I write this my neighbours tall conifers are bending over at 40 degrees so check your trees and shrubs as the constant wobbling with soft soil will have loosened their grip on the ground. Re-stake and tamp down the soil to firm them up or you risk damaging the root stock or end up with a leaning tree.

Mild Winter

Although the weather does not look particularly good, in fact the winter has been quite mild and you can see that this year the daffodils have come out before the crocuses. This is true for many other plants and vegetables so with the changeable temperatures keep a look out and protect from

frost by covering. Straw or plastic covered cloches will do the job.

neWs laWns

So let’s see what jobs can be done over the coming months. If you’re planning to start a new lawn it’s time to prepare the soil but only if conditions permit, otherwise you will be collecting more soil on your welly boots and never get a nice flat surface.

fruit

New fruit trees can be planted now; remember to make sure they are firmly staked and secure. Berries like red currants and gooseberry should be pruned quite hard after planting. Black currant can be pruned down to about 5cms off the ground (that’s about two inches for anyone who is still thinking imperial measure). In the flower garden anything that has a tuber, roots or crowns of any herbaceous or perennial plants can be lifted and divided to create new plants or share with friends.

GroWinG froM seed

Seed sowing can be started in earnest initially under cover and later in open ground. All seed packets have a chart showing when to plant and when to harvest. Repeat sowing at

intervals for successive planting ensuring a constant supply through the growing season. If you don’t want to sow seeds then over the coming months well established seedlings will be available in garden centres and boot sales.

rhuBarB

There is a way in which you can get started in vegetable and fruit all at the same time with guaranteed success. What’s this you say he must be nuts? There is a way and it’s as simple as “rhubarb”, that right, in America it’s classified as a fruit but in the UK officially it’s a vegetable but is mostly used as a fruit in pies, crumbles and puddings on its own. Rhubarb grows from Rhizomes! Let’s just call them tubers for now. They will grow just about anywhere and require little if any attention. When established will provide ample supplies for all manner of puddings. There are some medicinal qualities of this plant that works wonders for the older person, it’s a laxative.That’s it for now, as I say many times gardening is not always precise so don’t be afraid to experiment. As the weather allows get out there and take in some fresh air.Until next time

GardeninG with Gus

By richard Chidwick

the Ark T Studio Live Session took place at the East Oxford Community Centre on 15th December 2015. The gig was organised by supportive networks across Oxfordshire, Ark T YWMP (Youth Workers Music Project) and BG Records. The performances show-cased some of Oxford’s young and emerging talent who use the Ark T Centre as a hub to create, practice and perform live music. Elliot Vanderhyde, Chelsea Byles and Alex O’Connor were among performers at the gig, with a mixture of solo and drum backed covers and original tunes to keep the intimate audience eagerly anticipating the next song. Elliot Vanderhyde who is setting up his own record label, Vanderhyde Records played songs reminiscent of Blur band member Graham Coxon. Elliot said: “The songs I played tonight were recorded using limited resources and instrumentation, it’s part of the album Christmas at Number Two released on Christmas Eve. The record is conceptually designed as a form of protest through music

expressing the feeling of anger for young people joining the armed forces, and becoming militarised, and then often forgotten after servitude to the industry.” Alex O’Conner said: “I think musically I am inspired by a whole bunch of differ-ent people all over the place. There are bits and pieces that happen to you during every day life that inspire my solo work. I Feel it is better to make music out of posi-tive influences.” Chelsea Byles said: “I’ve been performing for a few years now but started with no confidence and without the support of the Ark T I would not have the confidence to perform. I also covered British artist Ed Sheran, who I recently discovered is under his own record label which I think is quite a cool thing.” Hannah Bruce from the Ark T Centre who co-ordinated and organised the per-formance said: ”The Ark T Live Sessions gives young people the opportunity to per-form in a safe and encouraging environment. It can be hard to find places to perform as well as go to gigs for someone who is under 18, the Live Sessions try to make sure seeing live music and and performing is accessible for this group.”

www.templarssquare.com

For more information and details of how to enter, please visit our website:

Family ticket to:WIN Age groups: under 4, 4-6, 6-8 year oldsThe Cotswold Wildlife Park

Colouring Competition26th March - 3rd April:

26th March - 3rd April:

For everyonePrize

Petting Zoo31st March and 7th April:

and face painter

www.templarssquare.com129 Pound Way, Cowley,Oxford, OX4 3XHTel: 01865 74886

ADVERTISEMENTalex, Chelsi, Connor, arthur, Martin, elliot. Photo by Hannah Bruce.

ADVERTISEMENTS

An Affordable WarmthNetwork Promotion Promotion ends 31 March 2016

Building a world-class city for everyone

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OXFORD City Council is working with Oxfordshire Affordable Warmth Network to provide funding routes for energy efficiency improvements. This will save money for eligible residents within the City, and help vulnerable residents keep warm and healthy. Coordinated by the National Energy Foundation, this partnership opens up the advice service to residents across Oxford City. Householders can find out how to stay in control of their energy bills through upgrading their heating systems, insulating their homes, changing their energy behaviour and accessing financial assistance. It is recognised that there are health benefits to maintaining temperatures of 180C to 210C and we all know that we are currently experiencing a warmer winter than usual, but sadly an increasing number of residents are still falling into fuel poverty. Residents can call the Affordable Warmth Helpline for free impartial advice on 0800 107 00 44 and to quickly check eligibility for financial help. Although this is

targeted to those likely to be struggling with energy bills, there is no eligibility criteria to contact this service, and anyone may call for advice. An email helpdesk is also available at awn@nef.org.uk for those residents preferring to email queries. The network across Oxfordshire is led by a steering group consisting of Oxfordshire County Council, Oxford City Council, the four District Councils, Citizens Advice Bureau, Age Concern and the Clinical Commissioning Group. The steering group sets the

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Keeping people warm and well this winter

OxfOrdshire AffOrdAble WArmth NetWOrk Performers from ark t Centre showcase Oxford’s young musical talent

Martin on the drums. Photo by Hannah Bruce.

CraftCOrnerPatchwork quiltingBy Jane Yates

PatchwORk is an ancient craft and there are records of it dating back to the ancient Egyptians, where some remnants were found in a tomb. Today it appears more popular than ever, so get out your sewing machine. Whether you are re using off cuts left over from your sewing projects, using good pieces of cloth from old clothing or buying brand new cotton, the finished project is always a joy. I am very new to patchwork, but have been able to make small pieces. The cushion pictured was inspired by some squares of traditional Japanese cloth my friend sent me. First I cut out the shapes and then choose which to put together. I sewed the seams loosely and then ironed them flat. Then I sewed them together

into strips and sewed some strips of material in between the patchwork strips. Then I made a back for the cushion, and stuffed it with a pillow.

8 Cowley News

FRIENDS OF ST JAMES OLD SCHOOL

THE STORY OF COWLEY

A monthly series of four talks by local historian Rosanne Butler, telling the history of the village of Cowley, from early days until Victorian times

St James Centre, Beauchamp Lane, OX4 3LF Wednesdays 6.45 refreshments for 7.00 – 8.30 £5 per evening

April 6 (1) how it all began – Cufa’s Ley

May 11 (2) 3 settlements and stone

June 8 (3) the bread basket of the university

July 6 (4) Victorian Cowley

no need to book information from Rosanne Butler – Membership Secretary Friends of St James Old School 01865 453 257 Lesley Williams – Chair Friends of St James Old School 07982 439 828 oldschoolcowley@gmail.com www.cowleyteamministry.co.uk/The-Parish/St-James-Old-School

FRIENDS OF ST JAMES OLD SCHOOL

THE STORY OF COWLEY

A monthly series of four talks by local historian Rosanne Butler, telling the history of the village of Cowley, from early days until Victorian times

St James Centre, Beauchamp Lane, OX4 3LF Wednesdays 6.45 refreshments for 7.00 – 8.30 £5 per evening

April 6 (1) how it all began – Cufa’s Ley

May 11 (2) 3 settlements and stone

June 8 (3) the bread basket of the university

July 6 (4) Victorian Cowley

no need to book information from Rosanne Butler – Membership Secretary Friends of St James Old School 01865 453 257 Lesley Williams – Chair Friends of St James Old School 07982 439 828 oldschoolcowley@gmail.com www.cowleyteamministry.co.uk/The-Parish/St-James-Old-School

By Helena Clennett

ThE Friends of St. James Old School are looking for members and supporters in their bid to restore the old school building next to St. James Church in Cowley. They hope to raise over £3,200 for urgent stonework repairs to the building and £30,000 to repair the roof. The group hope to eventually offer

provision for two and three year olds for Church Cowley St. James’ school, but currently government funding has all been allocated. A number of fundraising activities are being planned. These currently include getting people to sponsor one square foot of a wall on the building which will later be turned into a mural. From Wednesday 6

April there will be a series of four monthly talks by Roseanne Butler on the history of Cowley from its beginnings to Victorian times held at St. James’ Church centre in Beauchamp Lane. Each evening will cost £5 and starts at 6.45pm. The other dates will be 11 May, 8 June and 6 July.

ThIs year we are taking part in Artweeks at Ark T. Inspired by the London based artist Sean Worrall and his year-long piece of work – #365ArtDrops, we will be doing an ArtDrop and mapping project! If you don’t know what an Art Drop is, we can tell you. We will be painting lots of beautiful paintings for you to find; tucked away in the streets and green spaces and you can take them home with you to keep. It will be a bit like a treasure map or geo caching in the local area surrounding the Ark T Centre. When you find a painting there will some instructions on the back telling you how you can join in some more if you want to. There will be lots of other things to do and see during Artweeks at Ark T which will be happening 7–30 May you can check the website: www.ark-t.org for details nearer the time. We shall look forward to seeing you there!

Remembering Jean By ???

aT ThE end of last year I lost a very dear friend and neighbour. Jean Fisher was born in 1924 and lived her entire life in the same house, a rare thing indeed these days. I was lucky enough to know Jean and be a friend of hers for the last 12 years. Meeting her on my regular journeys past her house on my way to Donnington Doorstep when my daughters Amber and Ruby were little. She was often out in front of her house tending to her garden and so we’d chat and before long we became good friends with a shared passion for sewing and community. She often said, “I love life!” and she truly did. She loved to sing, dance and talk. She was fun and always keen to be involved in

any creative community project. Living a full life over recent years she had photos of herself projected onto Hockmore Tower as part of the ‘I Cowley project, was crowned Queen of Donnington celebrating 50 years on Donnington Bridge and had her portrait painted as part of the ‘Faces and Places’ community project which is still on display at Templars Square shopping center. I learnt a lot from Jean about what it means to grow old positively. With no immediate family, the community became her family, ensuring her friendships of many ages. I’m glad that she left this world peacefully in her sleep knowing that she was truly loved. She will remain treasured in the legacy she left behind and I will miss her very much. Jean is buried in Rose Hill Cemetery and every time I cycle past, I blow her a kiss.

Artweeks at Ark t with the Playspacers

the friends of st. James old school need you!

FRIENDS OF ST JAMES OLD SCHOOL

THE STORY OF COWLEY

A monthly series of four talks by local historian Rosanne Butler, telling the history of the village of Cowley, from early days until Victorian times

St James Centre, Beauchamp Lane, OX4 3LF Wednesdays 6.45 refreshments for 7.00 – 8.30 £5 per evening

April 6 (1) how it all began – Cufa’s Ley

May 11 (2) 3 settlements and stone

June 8 (3) the bread basket of the university

July 6 (4) Victorian Cowley

no need to book information from Rosanne Butler – Membership Secretary Friends of St James Old School 01865 453 257 Lesley Williams – Chair Friends of St James Old School 07982 439 828 oldschoolcowley@gmail.com www.cowleyteamministry.co.uk/The-Parish/St-James-Old-School

Work in progress by the PlaySpacers.

For more information see the facebook page www.facebook.com/Friends of St James Old School, Cowley or email: oldschoolcowley@gmail.com

Cowley News 9

By Wendy Markham

mEmbErs of the Littlemore Women’s Institute celebrated its 64th birthday since its founding in 1952. The afternoon began with singing led by Cait Sweeney, followed by party games and was thoroughly enjoyed by all. Littlemore Women’s Institute meets on the second Wednesday of the month at the British Legion, Lakefield Road, at 2pm–4pm.

LEFT TO RIgHT: Marion, Betty, Chris, Sheila, Anita, Margaret, Edie, Jean, Wendy, Sonja and Eileen. Photo by Cait Sweeney.

Happy 64th birthday!

A fat lot of useBy Paul Freestone

IT’s hardLY surprising that people get confused about what is, and isn’t healthy to eat. Health shock stories are a standard feature of the tabloids, but these are usually based on flimsy or non-existent evidence. In fact, government advice has been very consistent over the last 30 years. Reduce saturated fat, sugar and processed foods, and increase fresh fruit and veg. The “five a day” message has been successful, but the budget for these official health campaigns is tiny. The food industry spends millions promoting junk, and it’s an uncomfortable truth that those who spend the most money will easily win the battle for hearts and minds. Advertising and marketing companies have been honing their dubious tactics for decades, and they know how to manipulate the public. These methods are so pervasive

and highly effective it seems ridiculous to point out the obvious problems they create. Obesity and diabetes are rocketing, and yet the issue of “personal choice” remains prevalent. Does anybody really choose to follow a totally unhealthy lifestyle? Accusations about interference from “the nanny state” are heard regularly, but it’s the NHS that picks up the bill when people require lifesaving heart surgery or demand gastric bands. Nonetheless, it will be extremely difficult for anyone to adopt a healthier lifestyle if

everybody around them (family & friends) is determined not to change. Currently, there is a debate about imposing a tax on foods with a high sugar or fat content. Unsurprisingly, the food industry hates these proposals. This echoes the way that the tobacco companies resisted warning messages on fag packets. But why is there so much confusion about fat? Firstly, fats & oils are one of the three main food groups. Secondly, fat is an essential part of the diet and binds flavours together (it tastes good). Thirdly, there is a big difference between all

the fats available. The issue of saturated and unsaturated is a minefield, but we have absolutely no dietary need for saturated fat (as found in meat & dairy products). However, the unsaturated variety is very important (as found in plant sources such as nuts, seeds and avocados). Personally, I stick by this golden rule: only use an oil that is liquid at room temperature. Therefore, olive and rapeseed are good and butter and lard are bad. It’s important to stress that good oils don’t have to be expensive. Both Lidl and Aldi

sell excellent extra virgin olive oil that consistently win “best quality” awards. Other supermarkets offer a bewildering range, but there are some basic guidelines. The three ‘enemies’ of oil are heat, oxygen and light. So avoid anything sold in a clear bottle. Incidentally, the latest evidence indicates that sunflower oil isn’t as healthy as previously thought. When heated the properties of this oil undergo fundamental adverse changes. British cold pressed rapeseed oil is a superb product, and highly recommended for several reasons. These include its outstanding nutritional value, and a high smoke point which makes it ideal for frying and roasting. Adopting a cynical viewpoint about the food industry is (in my jaded opinion) the best option. This huge vested interest operates with little or no morality. For example, campylobacter is endemic within chicken production in the UK. It’s the main cause (about 90%) of all food poisoning in the UK, and kills an unknown number running into the hundreds each year. It’s estimated that all this costs the UK economy about £1 billion per year. And how does the poultry business respond to this problem? They blame the consumer for “poor hygiene practices”. The most recent FSA studies concluded that a staggering 73% of all raw chicken sold in the UK was infected with this deadly bug. How do they get away it? Unfortunately very easily, and will continue to do so until the public en masse stop buying it.

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10 Cowley News

Florence Park Children’s Centre Rymers Lane, Florence Park. We aim to offer play for children and support for their carers. We have a wide range of support and activities for carers of children so get in touch or look at our website to see our list of activities. 01865 777286florence.park@oxfordshire.gov.uk

Temple Cowley Library Opening Times: Mondays 9.15am–5.30pm, Tuesdays 9.15am–7pm, Wednesday 9.15am–7pm,Thursdays CLOSED, Fridays 9.15am–5.30pm Saturdays 9am–4.30pm Sundays CLOSED.

l Rhymetime: Wednesdays, 10.30–11am (term time only) l Book Corner: Fridays, 10.30–11am (term time only)

Littlemore Library Oxford Academy Campus, Sandy Lane West, Littlemore OX4 5JY.Opening hours:Mondays 2–6pm,Tuesdays 2–4.30pm,Wednesdays CLOSED,Thursdays 9.30am–12.30pmand 2pm–4.30pm,Fridays 9.30am–12.30pm,Saturdays 9.30am–1.30pm,Sundays CLOSED.Events:l Adults Reading Group – to join, please contact the library. Monthly on Thursdays, 10.30–11.30am (dates available from library).

l Rhymetime, for under 5sSecond and last Friday of the month, 11–11.30am.l Themed craft activityFor children aged 3–7 years. First Saturday of the month, 11am–12noon 01865 714309

Elder Stubbs Shop open to the public (gardens open to invited groups only) Monday–Friday, 10am–3pm.

Wild Honey Organic health store and yoga studio 111 Magdalen Road, East Oxford. Yoga classes throughout the week including Saturdays. See website for details: www.wildhoneylove.com

WHAt’s onA quick guide to what’s available locally. if you have an event you’d like to include, please email cowleynewseditor@gmail.com

l Knit and Stitch Wednesday mornings in the Broom Tree Cafe, 10am–12.30pm.

l Live Music@ Broom Tree Cafe,Tuesdays 12-2.30

l Parents and Toddlers Play Space in the Broom Tree Cafe, Mondays, 10am–12noon.

l Oxford Youth Dance Children’s classes For ages 3–12yrs: Saturdays, 9am–1pm. Cecilia Macfarlane07968 073763 ceciliamacfarlane@talk21.com

l Oxford Youth DanceSlipstream For ages 13–16yrs.Mondays, 5–7pm.elly_fish@yahoo.comwww.oxfordyouthdance.blogspot.co.uk

l Dugout: an adult community dance group. Tuesdays, 7.15–9.15pm. Cecilia Macfarlane 07968 073763 ceciliamacfarlane@talk21.com

l Little Music School Fun music classes for little people. Movers & Talkers: Thurs,10.30–11am, (under 5s) Babies: Thurs, 11.15am£4 drop-in (additional siblings are £1.50). £16.50 per term. Bookings and enquiries: Danielle, 07981 321007

l First Class Learning: Maths and English Tuition Learning good study habits, growing confidence and growing self esteem.Wednesdays, 3.30–5.30pm . James nolan,

08454 901902 07701 007748 oxfordcowley@firstclasslearning.co.uk

l QigongThursdays, 9.45–10.45am. A form of gentle exercise, made up of movements that are repeated, strengthening and stretching the body, increasing movement, balance and flexibility. ettaline Hill, 07974 185554ettaline@shiatsuoxford.com

l Singing at Ark TWe say everyone can sing! The group is open to everyone so come along and sing for fun. No singing or musical experience is needed. Fridays, 10.30am–12.30pm until 11 December. Beginning again in the New Year on 15 January, suggested donation £2 per session. Cait, 07880 615 672e: cait@brokenhomecollection.co.ukW: www.ark-t.org

Faye Parker School of BalletFun ballet classes for all children aged 3 years and upwards. Pre-School Ballet (3–4 years), Mondays, 3.45–4.15pm RAD Pre-Primary Ballet (4–5 years), Mondays, 4.15–4.45pm RAD Primary Ballet (5–6 years), Mondays, 5–5.30pm RAD Grade 1 Ballet (7–9 years), Mondays, 5.30–6.15pm e: faye_e_parker@hotmail.comW: www.fayeparkerschoolofballet.weebly.com

T’ai Chi Mondays, 12–1pm Anne Mackintosh, 01865 714 849 e: taichi@annemack.org W: www.taichi-in-oxford.co.uk

Pilates ClassPilates will do the following :Enhance concentration, induce relaxation, improve body symmetry and help reduce the risk of injury, increase muscles activity of the body, especially the back, pelvis and hip area, develop balance and co-ordination, improve muscle endurance and stamina of the body.Taught by a chartered physiotherapist with 20 years musculoskeletal experienceWednesdays, 9.30–10.30am£65 for a block of 8Booking essentiale: janecallawaypilates@hotmail.co.uk

Hatha Yoga class Throughout this beginner-friendly Hatha yoga course, we will be focusing on strengthening our lower backs and abdominal muscles, in addition to improving the flexibility of our hips, hamstrings, glutes and quads. Thursday, 6.30-8pm (until 10 December) £9/£7 e: becci.e.curtis@gmailW: beccicurtisyoga.com

Oxon Drama BeginnersThis class is for students who have a small amount of experience or have already completed a term with OXONDrama. During this term we will progress from lower focus group work, to more in-depth scene work,

monologue and creating realistic characterisations. All ages (18+) welcome.Weds, 7–9pm (8 week term)Price: £120. (£50 deposit to be paid on booking) 0747 3962 662e: oxondrama@gmail.com

Oxon Drama Intermediate ClassThroughout the first term we will work on scenes by well known playwrights, as well as improvisation and creating theatre from scratch. We will cover the techniques of prominent theatre practitioners such as Stanislavski, Augusto Boal and Peter Brook. The second term will culminate with an informal showcase within the class. All ages (18+) welcome. Some previous experience necessary.Tues, 7–9pm (8 week term)Price: £120. (£50 deposit to be paid on booking) 0747 3962 662e: oxondrama@gmail.com

Community Dance Project – AJOS DanceAjos Dance seeks participants for a new experimental project. No dance experience is needed, all levels are welcome to join. Our choreographic research will explore inter-relatednesss and positive social change. What makes us different from others? Why do we sometimes feel excluded because of our looks, age, social standing, religion, gender or physical ability? We will explore some of these questions with the aim of gaining empowerment, knowledge and

confidence through the beauty and freedom of physical movement and dance.Weds, 7.15–8.15pm.

Big Beats What is Big Beats? More than a dance meditation class, Big Beats is designed to encourage people with body image issues, low self-confidence and self-esteem to participate in physical exercise, in the form dance meditation for both physical and emotional health.A mixture of free-form dance, and deep relaxation is used. No taught or partner dancing is involved.We dance with our eyes closed to respect privacy, to quiet the ‘chattering mind’, and reduce self-consciousness.Is this just for women? No, men have body and confidence issues too, all are welcome. However, if you would like me to consider a single gender class, then let me know?Mons, 7–8.30pm, £10 Concessions available with proof of benefits 07555111264e: info@bigbeats.orgW: www.facebook.com/Bigbeatsdance

Rehearsal SpaceThe Ark T also provides space for dancers and actors to rehearse at the centre as part of our ongoing support for individuals and groups needing valuable time to bring a piece together.If you would like to enquire regarding hiring a space then please get in contact with Hazel Wilson at hazel@ark-t.org or call 01865 396778.

the Ark t Centre Crowell Road, Cowley OX4 3LN. 01865 396 778 E: mail@ark-t.org

Barracks Lane Community Garden(Off Cumberland Road, Oxford OX4 2AP)Barracks Lane Community Garden is a beautiful green space and eco building at the heart of a vibrant community in Oxford. It is for everyone to use and enjoy by visiting, booking for a private function or by coming along to one of the many events and activities that are held throughout the year.

Find us onFacebook: www.facebook.com/BarracksLaneCommunityGarden

07729 655 543 E: barrackslanegarden@yahoo.co.ukW: www.barrackslanegarden.org.uk

the dystonia society uK Our AgM is on 16 March

We meet in the Conference Room level 3, from 2pm until 5pm at The John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, Headington, Oxford.

For further information please contact Chairperson Lorraine Jackson. 0845 899 7134 (all calls are charged at 5p per minute plus your network rate) E: info@dystonia.org.uk

feel fit gym, spa and classes Templar’s Square, Cowley. Open 6.30am, Monday to Friday

01865 711 333 / 774 998E: info@feelfitgym.com

MuseuM oF oxForD Community WorkshopsWe offer lots of workshops for adults, including Searchers, Creative Writing and Art For All. All workshops take place in the Heritage Learning Centre on weekdays during term time (see monthly listings for further details) and all abilities are welcome. Please contact Antonia Harland-Lang (aharland-lang@oxford.gov.uk) for more information or just come along to a session.

Cowley News 11

FlorenCe PArK CoMMunity Centre

LoCAL BusInessesl Ace Flooring Nigel07774 206440l David Bryan Electrical07766 547358l Decorating and Design07880 615672

Do you want your local business listed here for free ? For details contact cowleynewseditor@gmail.com

CHurCHes St James Church, Beauchamp Lane. Sun: 8am, Holy Communion; 10am: Sung Eucharist. Tue: 12pm, Holy Communion; 12.30pm, Lunch Club. 01865 747680

St FrancisHollow Way. Sun: 10.30am, Parish Eucharist. Phone for times of Christmas services. 01865 747680

John Bunyan Baptist Church Sunday Service, 10.30am, followed by tea and coffee. Phone for Christmas Service

information. 01865 773499

Temple Cowley United Reformed ChurchSunday morning worship is 10.30–11.45am. Communion is celebrated monthly on the third Sunday.Chatterbox, 4–6.30pm, first Saturday of the month. Coffee and cake, games and chat! 01865 751621

Our Lady Help of Christians59 Hollow Way, Cowley, OX4 2ND Sat (for Sun): 5.30pm, Mass. 4.30–5pm, Confession.Sun: 10am, Mass.Mon–Thu: 9.15am, Mass. 01865 770910

THE centre is open as a social club & bar every evening from 7.30pm. You can come along for a drink at the bar and meet neighbours. It is for members, but you can sign up for £6 annual fee or a member can sign you in for the evening for a 50p charge. There are also regular bar events that are open to all. Regular games and sports at the Club include darts matches, Aunt Sally, bingo and cribbage.

l The Florence Park history group Meets every first Monday of the month and is preparing an exhibition of history of the area through the decades since it was first built in the 1930s.

l The Florence Park Flower Club Meets every fourth Tuesday, 8pm.

l Social Club Open Monday – Friday, 7.30pm – 11.30pm, members and guests.

l Equip Cafe Every Saturday, 10am to 2pm, barista coffee and brunch, children welcome.

l Craft circle Every Wednesday, 7.30 to 9.30pm.

l Daily evening stroll Starting 6.30pm outside the community centre and following a fixed route around Florence Park neighbourhood (free)

l Tai Chi Thursdays, 10.45 to 11.45pm, cost £8 (£7 members) or £35 (30) for five sessions.

l Ashtanga YogaTuesday nights, 6pm–7.15pm, with Bella Rossi. £8 per class (£7 Florence Park residents), or £35 block of five classes (£30 residents).

l Powerhoop Every Monday 6.15–7pm. £5 + £1 to hire a hoop. Booking essential. Call Rianna 07855 023279

l Little Big Voice fun choirFor 5-8 year olds Wednesdays, 3.45-4.30pm. £3 per child no need to book emformusic@outloook.com

l The Florence Park Over 60’s Club Meets every Friday, 12–2pm.

l Book group Every third Monday of month (aprox).

l Friends of Florence Park Every fourth Monday of the month.

l Bingo Every Thursday evening (8pm) and last Saturday of the month.

l Family Bring-a-long a Board game Evening. Last Friday of each month. Come down to the community centre with your family board games and join in. 7.30pm–9.30pm (followed at 10pm by the Meat Raffle, everyone welcome to stay and enter)

Cornwallis Road, OX4 3NH 07864 028591 www.florenceparkcommunitycentre.org.uk

Volunteers!We are looking for contributors

and distributors for our next issue.

if you are interested please email the editor at

cowleynewseditor@gmail.com

FilM oxForD 54 Catherine St. Oxford OX4 3AH. tel: 01865 792731/792732email: office@filmoxford.orgWeb: www.filmoxford.org

We are responding to rumours and speculation that Film Oxford will be leaving its current premises on Catherine Street imminently. We would just like to reassure all users and members that this is not the case and that

we have a full programme of activities and events planned for the coming year. Film Oxford has been an important supporter and contributor to the cultural and artistic life in Oxford for over 30 years, and we look forward to continuing to contribute to the vibrant cultural life in East Oxford, the City and around the County for years to come

All Course details can be found at www.filmoxford.org/training

Dementia Friendly Screenings at the Ultimate Picture Palace

Another dementia friendly screening will take place during Dementia Awareness Week 15–21

May. We shall post details on our Facebook page or check direct with the UPP for a full

programme.

Cowley Rd, Oxford OX4 1BN01865 245288

Get involved in the Cowley Christmas tree festival 2016!By Helena Clennett

IN OThEr news St. James church hosted another highly successful Christmas tree festival in December 2015. Entertainment included The Blackbird Leys string band, Oxybaroxy and the Witney Youth Choir, and lots of groups and organisations contributed a total of 53 beautifully decorated Christmas trees. There were 800 visitors, and the festival raised over £2,500. Donations were given to charities See Saw, Rosy and The Children’s Society.

The first planning meeting for the 2016 festival will be on May 20th. To find out more and get involved contact Lesley Williams at ctf@cowleyteamministry.co.uk

OxfOrdshIrE Befriending for Life (OxBEL) recruits and trains volunteers to befriend people who are facing the end of life and may be isolated and alone or just need someone to talk to. The organisation is seeking volunteers for the next training course which starts in Oxford soon. Volunteers can make a huge difference to someone’s life by providing practical help and emotional support. Training is provided and regular one-to-one supervision including bi-monthly peer support meetings.

The befriending relationship also enriches the life of volunteers. It isn’t all about serious stuff. Part of preparing to die well involves living life well, and to the full, now. There can be fun and laughter as well as serious conversations. It can come as a surprise to volunteers just how rewarding the role turns out to be. Every friendship is unique.

For further information call Tracy on telephone number 01235 849427 or email: enquiries@oxbel.org.uk

volunteer befrienders needed

12 Cowley News

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@recycle4oxford #refashionoxford ReFashion Oxford

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10 march2016

FREE EVENT•Student fashion shows •Second hand and vintage clothes sales• Free ‘swishing’ – clothes

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sew, repair and adapt your old clothes•Craft stalls and demonstrations •Compered by Rich from

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By Artwell

hardLY a week passes without a government report informing us of the need to be physically fit, as obesity and diabetes continue to increase; surprisingly, even among our youth. We all need access to available, and free or affordable, fitness facilities. Local campaigner Nigel Gibson has offered a “Blue Hole Challenge to Oxford City Council asking “Are

you prepared to fill the void left by your decision to close Temple Cowley Pools, listen to and talk with the people of Oxford who are still ready, willing and able to take over the site, and bring it back into use at no cost to the Council?” A fitness solution to obesity and diabetes could be found in Lord Nuffield’s gift to Cowley, Florence Park. Florence Park is a large and beautiful green area, well suited for

team games and joggers. Dotted around the perimeter of another local park, Cowley Marsh, the City Council has provided a considerable range of useful and challenging fitness equipment, to create an adventurous outdoor fitness trail. Outdoors exercise equipment has been a wonderful addition to other Parks in Oxford. Should we ask the City Council to provide similar outdoor exercise

equipment for Florence Park? Indeed, outdoor sports equipment would be a cost efficient way for the Council to help fight the “Blue Hole” and keep the people of Cowley fit and active, at a time when Public Sports amenities in Cowley are in decline. Another “Hole” in Cowley is the lack of community and social facilities. One such local venue, the Cowley Conservative Club, closed

at the start of January this year. The Conservative Club provided a wonderful, large venue for parties, weddings, meetings, and more. This follows the loss of the much-lamented Cowley Community Centre 2009, now replaced by ‘The Venue’, which is small scale compared to the former Barns Road Community Centre and Conservative Club. Cowley needs more available Public amenities, Public Space, and Public fitness facilities. We must challenge the City Council to provide more of these for the people of Cowley.

CoWLeY ConCeRns: the Cowley Blues

WhY is Nature Good For us?These articles and my wider work these days is about developing new ways for people to enjoy their gardens, see them in a new light and enjoy the wildlife therein. Bringing to people’s attention through their senses and experiencing more fully what is really in front of them, in that moment, is a real de-stressing skill and perfect for keeping balance in all our lives. The emphasis is so much on the thoughts being the thing to address in finding balance, but what is really happening physically in the human body and mind when we enjoy the nature around us? We know getting out and connecting with nature is good for us, but what is going on? We recognize that tingly feeling when we are out in the thick with Mother Nature, but what is really happening, what is it that causes that tingly feeling? I am hoping to run a series of nature sensory workshops with Oxford University students and also help

develop a full study within the University itself to try and collect data exploring what physically happens to our bodies when out in nature. I suspect a lot of what’s going on is the electrical

impulses given and received by the brain

during our countryside wanders. Is it all to do with the nervous system though? Is it that we breathe more deeply when out in nature, meaning we have more oxygen in our system so our bodies can actually function properly. Is what’s going on in our bodies different at differing stages in live, say, toddler, teenager, adult, and pensioner? If we understand what’s going on when we are out in nature, are we able to sustain that process when we return back to the hustle and bustle that can be life? Next time you are out in the wildlife garden, observe yourself. What’s happening in your mind and in your body too? It’s something we take for granted but worth exploring I think. I talk about not just looking, but seeing. Not just touching, but feeling. Not just listening but hearing too. That’s not enough though I’m coming to realise. To get the whole experience from a wildlife garden, we need to understand too.Happy Gardening

tHe WILdLIfe GARden

With Stuart Mabbutt