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Church of England United Benefice Twigworth including Longford; Down Hatherley; Norton;

The Leigh with Evington; Sandhurst; Staverton with Boddington

SEVEN TOWERS

BENEFICE MAGAZINE No. 115 August 2014

St. Mary Magdalene, Boddington

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CHURCH CONTACTS

Rector: Rev Suzanne Skepper 01452 731994 email: suzanne.skepper@hotmail.co.uk Day off - Friday.

Associate Ministers: Canon David Godwin 01452 730435 Father David Humphries01452 529582

Seven Towers Benefice website: www.seventowers.org.uk O ffice: office@seventowers.org.uk

Churchwardens: Down Hatherley Mrs Ann Warriner 01452 730371 St Mary & Corpus Christi Dr Andy Nicol 01452 730025

The Leigh & Evington Mrs Sue Roberts 01242 680835 St Catherine

Norton Mr Simon Trapnell 07774 803177 St Mary Mrs Jean Smith 01452 730265

Sandhurst Mr Jim Brown 01452 731900 St Lawrence Mrs Carolyn Wright 01452 731450

Staverton &. Boddington Mr Edmund McClure 01242 681139 St Catherine & St Mary Magdalene Mr Rob Buckland 01452 713155

Twigworth & Longford Mr Chris Baldwin 01452 534105 St Matthew Mr. Gareth Moseley 07708 205090 Enquiries about baptisms, marriages and funerals should be directed to the Rector.Next month’s copy date: JULY COPY DATE For inclusion in the September 2014 edition of the magazine, copy should reach parish correspondents by 18th August or be sent directly to David Godwin by the 19th August. (email: davidhgodwin@live.co.uk).

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SEPTEMBER COPY DATE For inclusion in the September 2014 editionof the magazine, copy should reach parish correspondents by18th August or be sent directly to David Godwin by the 19th August.Email: davidhgodwin@live.co.uk.

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FROM THE STUDY WINDOW

Moving on together…

A gentleman approached me in a supermarket the other day that I had never met, asking me if I were to be the next Bishop of Gloucester! Not surprisingly really…not that he thought I was bishop material, I’d never met the man! But because of the historic vote in favour of women bishops that General Synod had passed the day previously! He remarked that it had received a varied response and I’m not sure where he stood in relation to the support of women bishops; I think he was supportive, he said that he would look out for me in the paper, not sure if that is a good or a bad thing! As I and countless others are rejoicing I am conscious that there are others for whom that is not the case. I am heartened by Archbishop Justin Welby’s words and echo them completely. “Today marks the start of a great adventure of seeking mutual flourishing while still, in some cases disagreeing. The challenge for us will be for the church to model good disagreement and to continue to demonstrate love for those who disagree on theological grounds. Very few institutions achieve this, but if we manage this we will be living out more fully the call of Jesus Christ to love one another. As delighted as I am for the outcome of this vote I am also mindful of those within the Church for whom the result will be difficult and a cause of sorrow. My aim, and I believe the aim of the whole church, should be to be able to offer a place of welcome and growth for all. Today is a time of blessing and gift from God and thus of generosity. It is not winner take all, but in love a time for the family to move on together." Amen and Amen. Suzanne

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AUGUST PRAYER DIARY

Friday 1 Richard Mitchel, our Area Dean Saturday 2 The Hospital Chaplains Sunday 3 Pupils and staff of Norton School Monday 4 All those who are travelling at this time Tuesday 5 For the magazine team Wednesday 6 Tewkesbury Borough Council Thursday 7 Those living in Boddington Friday 8 Those getting married at this time Saturday 9 The Police Sunday 10 Those living in The Barrow Monday 11 Those who are sick Tuesday 12 The work of Send a Cow Wednesday 13 The Churchwardens Thursday 14 Those living in the Leigh Friday 15 Suzanne our Rector Saturday 16 Those who are in Care Homes Sunday 17 Our Bell Ringers Monday 18 Those living in Coombe Hill Tuesday 19 Those living in The Leigh Wednesday 20 Pupils and staff of Tewkesbury School Thursday 21 Those who care for the sick Friday 22 Our Home Groups Saturday 23 Those living in Norton Sunday 24 The Ladies’ & Men’s Breakfasts Monday 25 Messy Church Tuesday 26 Those living in Staverton Wednesday 27 All farm workers Thursday 28 Those living in Down Hatherley Friday 29 For our Benefice service Saturday 30 For those living in Sandhurst Sunday 31 Those living in Twigworth and Longford

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Church Services Sunday 3rd August Sandhurst 9.30 am Holy Communion Revd Suzanne Twigworth 10.30 am Morning Prayer Team Down Hatherley 6.30 pm Evening Prayer Team Norton 11.00 am Holy Communion Revd Suzanne The Leigh 6.00 pm Evening Prayer Team Staverton 9.30 am Morning Prayer Team Sunday 10th August Norton 6.00 pm Said Holy Communion Revd Suzanne Twigworth 11.00 am Worship Together Benefice Service Sunday 17th August Sandhurst 9.30 am Morning Prayer Team Twigworth 11.00 am Holy Communion Canon David Down Hatherley 9.30 am Holy Communion Revd Suzanne Norton 9.30 am Morning Prayer Team The Leigh 8.30 am Said Holy Communion Revd Suzanne Staverton 9.30 am Holy Communion Fr David Sunday 24th August Sandhurst 9.30 am Holy Communion Canon David Twigworth 10.30 am Morning Prayer Team Down Hatherley 6.30 pm Evening Payer Team Norton 11.00 am Holy Communion Fr David The Leigh 6.00 pm Evening Prayer Team Boddington 6.30 pm Evening Prayer Team Sunday 31st August Fifth Sunday Benefice service Boddington 11.00am Holy Communion Canon David Sunday 7th September Sandhurst 6.00 pm Evening Prayer Team Twigworth 11.00 am Holy Communion Fr David Down Hatherley 9.30 am Holy Communion Canon David Norton 9.30 am Morning Prayer Team The Leigh 6.00 pm Evening Prayer Team Staverton 9.30 am Holy Communion Fr David

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Year A Bible Readings to 7th September 2014 Sunday 3rd August Trinity7 (Green)

First Reading Genesis 32. 22-31 Gospel Matthew 14. 13-21 Psalm 17. 1-7,16 Sunday 10th August Trinity 8 (Green)

First Reading Genesis 37. 1-4,12-28 Gospel Matthew 14. 22-33 Psalm 105. 1-10 Sunday 17th August Trinity 9 (Green)

First Reading Genesis 45.1-15 Gospel Matthew 15. 21-28 Psalm 133 Sunday 24th August Trinity 10 (Green)

First Reading Exodus 1.8-2.10 Gospel Matthew 16.13-20 Psalm 124 Sunday 31st August Trinity 11 (Green) First Reading Exodus 3.1-15 Gospel Matthew 16. 21-end Sunday 7th September Trinity 12 (Green) First Reading Exodus 12.1-14 Gospel Matthew 18. 15-20 Psalm 149

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From the Registers

BBAPTISMS

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

(Matthew 28:19)

Isla Elizabeth Williamson baptised on 6th July at Down Hatherley Church

WEDDINGS

“God is love, and those who live in love live in God; and God lives in them.” (1 John 4: 16)

FUNERALS “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even

though he dies.” (John 11:25)

Gilbert Davis died 16th June aged 83. Funeral at Twigworth on 24th June.

Gerald Sivell died on 27th June aged 88. Funeral at Twigworth 3rd July.

Sam Davis died aged 24. Funeral at Down Hatherley on 24th July.

DID YOU KNOW? - The lead font, (pictured below) dating from the late 12th century, is one of six in Gloucestershire cast from the same mould. Its round bowl is decorated with eleven compartments containing five seated figures and six foliated scrolls. It sits on a 19th-century stone base.

And its in St Lawrence Church, Sandhurst …. Take a look next time you visit the church!

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Events and Meetings

Monthly Breakfast meetings

Please note that there will be no Men’s Breakfast in August

The next Men’s Breakfast Club will be on the 6th September at the home of Graham Limbrick

of 2 Dorrington Court, Sandhurst. How do you fancy a cooked breakfast!? Well, we have a monthly gathering of men for conversation and to have breakfast. We meet on the first Saturday on each month, starting at 8:30am and finishing by 10:00 am. If you’re able to make a donation to help cover costs that would be good (but not essential!).

So that we can order the right amount of sausages, please let Graham know if you’re coming! (Tel: 01452 731257 ).

Ladies’ Breakfast Group meet on 2nd August from 8.45 - 10:00 am at the home of Helen Nicol in Down Hatherley. More ladies are always welcome and if you’d like to come, please contact Helen on 01452 730025. If you’re able to make a donation to help cover costs that would be good (but not essential!). Home Groups.

Evening Group meets on Thursday 14th August at 7.30 pm at the Rectory. Please contact Suzanne on 01452 731994 for further details, especially if you are coming for the first time.

Afternoon Group meets on Wednesday 20th August at 3.00 pm at Nature In Art, Wallsworth. Please note that we will now be meeting at Nature in Art, normally on the 3rd Wednesday of every month. More members are welcome. Please contact David on 01452 730435 for further details.

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July’s Messy Church meeting in the Rectory Garden was great fun! Lots of activities based around travelling and the seaside kept everyone busy and after bible time and song

we all enjoyed a BBQ tea.

Next meeting is on Sunday 7th September at Norton Village Hall from 3pm -5pm. For more information

please contact Sarah Major, 01452 535187. St Matthew’s Church 200 Club, Twigworth The club supports the Church by providing finance towards the maintenance and restoration of the church, and as a bonus you might win a prize! Half of all income goes towards church maintenance, and half is distributed in prizes. In recent years we have paid out over £200 annually to the St Matthew’s Restoration Appeal Fund. A draw is held every three months, and current first prize is £20. The cost for a whole year for one set of numbers is £12, which gives three chances in each draw. However, the more that join, the higher the income, the higher the support to the church and the higher the prize fund, so go on have a go! The Club operates as a charity in accordance with the Lotteries and Amusements Act 1976, and is registered with Tewkesbury Borough Council. Contact Chris Baldwin for more details and an application form in church or telephone 07811 589867 or 01452 534105 Bellringing at St Lawrence Church, Sandhurst On Thursday September 25th a visiting band will be ringing a peel from about 10 am. The complete cycle of the peel will take about 3 hours!

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LET’S COME TOGETHER AND WORSHIP A special Benefice Service for all our communities.

Sunday August 10th at 11 am at St. Matthew’s Church, Twigworth

The all-age service complements our traditional worship. Music is led by our Worship band, the talk and prayer are interactive, and everyone can enjoy the multimedia approach to worship.

At each of these second Sunday worship services a collection of foodstuffs for the local Food Bank is made. Our support is valued and much appreciated by the organisers of this charity. (see below for a list of produce that is requested.)

The August service will be followed by a barbecue in the Rectory garden. Barbeque food and salads will be provided. Please bring a pudding.

I do hope that you can join us. Its an opportunity to get to know one another, enjoying worshipping, eating, sharing and laughing and having fun together.

Suzanne

Donations for the Food Bank:Please give generously. The most needed items are: Long life milk, long life fruit juice, packet mash, biscuits, sugar Tinned cold meat, rice pudding, custard, fruit, potatoes, sponge pudding for families, treats for children, Packets of pasta ‘n’ sauce, savoury rice, savoury noodles.

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THE FOODBANK CHALLENGE As many of you know, at our second Sunday Benefice service, we have been collecting food donations for the Gloucester foodbank which is one of over 400 run nationwide by Trussell Trust. For many people, it is a sobering thought that there is a need for foodbanks in a wealthy developed country like ours, yet when one considers that 13 million people live below the poverty line in the UK, perhaps it is not such a big surprise. It seems to me that foodbanks are quite controversial and people appear to have quite strong (and sometimes diverging) opinions about them. I’ve met people in recent weeks who have suggested that foodbank visitors are ‘scroungers’ and that foodbanks themselves help to ‘perpetuate a problem’. Others simply don't want to even think about the issues - ‘it’s nothing to do with me’. I recently watched a really enlightening TV programme on the subject, so I thought I’d do a quick bit of swatting up on foodbanks to see if I could get a better grip of the issues. There have always been hungry people in our society. What is really telling is that today hunger is increasing in the UK, and foodbanks are dramatically growing in number as result. The Trussell Trust is a Christian charity which runs the UK’s largest network of foodbanks. These fed over 300,000 people in 2012-13. By 2013-14 this number had increased three-fold to over 900,000 people including over 300,000 children. The Trussell Trust runs 40% of food banks in the UK, so that 900,000 number does not include the visitors to the other 60% that are not part of the Trussell Trust. The overall numbers must be over a million. And rising. Redundancy, illness, domestic violence, debt, family breakdown, and rising energy costs are just some of the reasons why people go hungry, although the main reason people go to foodbanks is because they are having problems with the benefits system. They are not necessarily unemployed. Only around 5% of families receiving benefits are unemployed - it is much more common to receive payments because of low pay or disability. When people are literally counting every penny and are living hand to mouth, delays in payment, changes to the system or a sanction, can tip them over the edge. These people have stories of real hardship and frustration. A Welsh survey revealed that 100% of clients would have skipped meals without the foodbank, 69% would have experienced increased depression, 38% would

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have experienced strain on family relationships, 15% would have committed a crime to obtain food, and 8% would have used a loan shark or doorstep lender. As I saw on the TV programme, one of the really valuable things that foodbanks do is to provide advice and the chance for a visitor to tell their story and for it to be heard with respect. For those who have struggled in secret not telling friends or colleagues of their difficulties, this can be as important a service as the food parcel itself. From conversations the food banks have had it is clear that no two paths to a foodbank are the same and that many of the stories share common themes, many of which may be familiar to us all. Living in a country where large numbers go hungry should make people feel uncomfortable. A recent report by the Baptist, Methodist, and Untited Reformed Churches with Church Action on Poverty, supporting the fight against UK hunger, tackled some of the statements from journalists and politicians that have influenced many people’s perceptions of food banks …

� Some, for example, had suggested that people visit foodbanks to get something for free and that they don’t really need them…. BUT the fact is people cannot just turn up at most foodbanks and ask for food. Instead they are referred by a qualified professional like a doctor, social worker, or advice worker who has assessed them to be in immediate need. Plus, foodbank food is also not really ‘free’ – it is costly to admit that you can’t feed yourself or your family, and to feel or fear a stigma when first visiting a foodbank.

� Some had suggested that the growth in food banks leads to more foodbank users…. BUT as a result of all the conversations they have had, food bank providers know that the demand is not supply driven. If one suspected their evidence as biased, the Government commissioned research on foodbanks and it also concluded that there are not more foodbank users simply because there are more foodbanks. It is increasing need that is driving foodbank numbers.

� Some had suggested that foodbanks create dependency….

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BUT the reality is foodbanks provide emergency help in a crisis and allow time for a family to move to a more sustainable system of support. Most foodbanks have systems in place to limit the number of visits any individual can make as it is not a long-term solution. In fact, some commentators think that the most worrying aspect of dependency is that the welfare state may become dependent on foodbanks to support the people it chooses to withdraw support from.

� Some had suggested people need foodbanks because they are unemployed and work-shy…. BUT you don’t need to be unemployed to experience crisis or to get benefits - old age, low pay, sickness and disability are all more common reasons for needing benefits. All these groups can have problems with the benefit system and, with the exception of pensioners, all are experiencing substantial changes in support.

� Some had suggested that only people who have made poor decisions or have got their priorities wrong need a foodbank…. BUT apart from anything else surely everyone makes poor decisions at times and can one seriously say that good personal choices will end the mass hunger we are seeing today!? Some of us are shielded from the consequences of our poor decisions by savings, earnings or family support. People who end up at foodbanks have often exhausted these safety nets and simply have no one else to call upon.

It is so very sad that foodbanks are necessary, but they are. Foodbanks deserve our support as they can make sure those in need get emergency food today and can help them so that they don’t need emergency food tomorrow. By helping, we’re also expressing and demonstrating our Christian vision in real and practical ways. We might even argue that this is a return to an ancient tradition, the tithe-barn, which was a prominent feature of community life in our nation for centuries – a place where food was stored and shared for the common good, inspired and directed by the teachings of the Old Testament.

Simon Trapnell

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SANDHURST HARVEST SUPPER The supper is planned for Friday 26th September in the Village Hall. More details will follow in next month’s magazine and look out for advertising around the village. The Harvest Festival service will be on Sunday morning, 28th September at 9.30 am.

August Diary

2 Ladies’ Breakfast Page 8 Car Boot Sale Page 18

Norton RFC Fun Day Page 21 9 Norton & The Leigh Horticultural Show Page 19 Red Lion celebrate Summer Page 20 10 Worship Together & BBQ Page 10 WW1 display in Norton Village Hall Page 15 11 Sandhurst Coffee Morning Page 15 13 Pilgrimage to Westminster Abbey 14 Evening Home Group Page 8 20 Afternoon Home Group Page 8 25 Sandhurst Summer Fete Page 18 31 Dog Show Page 21 6 Sept. Men’s Breakfast Club & Ladies’s Breakfast 7 Sept. Messy Church 26 Sept. Sandhurst Harvest Supper 4 October Heart & Soul Concert in Tewkesbury 28/29/30 Nov Norton Christmas Tree Festival at Church

Down Hatherley Dog Training Club run weekly classes for Starters to Advanced dogs and their owners at the Village Hall and the Cricket Ground. Daytime and evening spaces are available. Qualified trainers. Fully insured. Phone Pauline on 07718 235388.

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AROUND THE VILLAGES

SANDHURST COFFEE MORNINGSIn Sandhurst Village Hall on 2nd Monday of the month at 10:30am. Everyone welcome.Dates for your diary: Aug 11; Sept 8; Oct 13; Nov 10; Dec 8.

S & B Thursday GroupThank you to Joe Edwards for arranging a thoroughly exciting Thursday Club farm visit - a veritable safari!We saw hares, buzzards, geese, egrets, butterflies and, of course, prize cows.We wish Joe, Sophie and family all the best when they move to pastures new.

THE ORCHARD KNITTING CLUBWe meet every Thursday from 10:15 till 12:15 in the Coffee Shop at Nature in Art, Wallsworth Hall. New members always welcome regardless of ability. Bring your own projects or help with knitting for charity. For more details contact Mavis on 07974 033428.

NORTON WIThere is no meeting in August. On September 18th ‘Suffragettes and Votes for Women’ with Paddy Harrington.Contact Margaret Edwards on 01452 731218 for further information

NORTON & THE LEIGH LOCAL HISTORY GROUPMeeting on 9thAug. To commemorate the 1914-18 War, A collection of artefacts and memorabilia will be on displayed in the committee room of Norton Village Hall. If you have any items of interest that could be included in the display, contact Sue Phelps, 01452 731280 orAnn Wrench 01452 730439

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PARISH COUNCIL MEETINGS

Twigworth: Meetings held on a Thursday at 7:00pm in St. Matthew’s vestry. (Door at left side of church) Next meetings: Sept 4; Nov 6 Members of the public and press are invited to attend. There is a chance for public participation at the beginning and end of every meeting.

Down Hatherley: Meetings held on a Wednesday in the village hall at

7:00pm. Members of the public and press are cordially invited to attend. There is a chance for public participation at the beginning and at the end of every meeting. Next meetings: 3rd Oct; 15th Dec; 2015 3rd Jan; 21st March; 4th April; 13th May.

Sandhurst: Meetings are held in Sandhurst Village Hall, starting at

7:30 pm on the first Monday of each month (unless this is a Bank Holiday). All parishioners are invited to attend. No meeting in August.

The Leigh: Planned meetings are four times a year, one of those being the Annual General meeting in May. Additional planning meetings are called when necessary. All meetings are held in St. Catherine’s Church on a Wednesday at 7:30pm. All parishioners are encouraged to attend.

Longford: Meetings are held in Longford Village Hall, first Tuesday of the month, starting at 7:30 pm. All residents are invited.

Norton: Meetings are held in the Village Hall committee room starting at 7.30pm. All parishioners are welcome to attend. Next meetings: September 10; November 22.

Staverton: The Council meets on the 3rd Wednesday of everyBoddington: other month at the Cheltenham West Community

Fire Station at Uckington.

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VILLAGE & COMMUNITY AGENT REPORT July 2014 News from the Village Agent – an Introduction I have recently been appointed as GRCC, (Gloucestershire Rural Communities Council), Village & Community Agent for Tewkesbury and surrounding villages and communities, replacing Lesley Wall who has retired. I am no stranger to the area as, until recently I was the Parish Clerk for Norton and Sandhurst Parish Councils and in what seems like another life now, I am also a retired Gloucestershire Constabulary Police officer! Geographically, I am covering a very large area which will include the following Parishes and communities: Alderton, Ashchurch, Boddington, Down Hatherley, Dumbleton, Elmstone Hardwicke, Gotherington, Gretton, The Leigh, Northway, Norton, Oxenton, Prescott, Staverton, Stoke Orchard (including Tredington), Teddington, Tewkesbury, Toddington, Twigworth, Twyning, Uckington, Walton Cardiff and Wheatpieces. The Severnside Parishes of Apperley with Deerhurst, Ashleworth, Chaceley, Forthampton, Hasfield, Maisemore, Sandhurst and Tirley are now covered by my colleague, Ann Vaughan who can be contacted on: 07534 064169. Ann also has responsibility for some areas of Gloucester City. As I am sure you will know from my predecessor, the role of the Village Agent is to provide support to the over 50's, bridging the gap between the local community and the statutory or voluntary organisations able to offer help or support. Our title has been changed recently to include the word Community as we now work across the whole County and include the urban areas of Gloucester City and Cheltenham. I am sure the editor will want to me cut this short so to finish can I say that if you feel I can be of any assistance I can be contacted on: 07810 630244 or by e-mail at: dcooper@villageagent.grcc.org.uk David Cooper GRCC Village & Community Agent Tewkesbury Area

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WELCOME TO LONGFORD’S 2014 CAR BOOT SALES

At Longford Village Hall - (On Longford Lane, off Tewkesbury Road)

CARS OR VANS STILL JUST £5 entry

NO NEED TO BOOK JUST TURN UP. GATES OPEN 9.00amHot & cold refreshments served

All proceeds will go towards the upkeep of Longford Village HallFor further information Steve Ashmead on 01452 558284

SANDHURST VILLAGE

SUMMER FETEMonday 25th August 2014 from 2 pm

Village Hall and Cricket Field

Fete Donation Weekend at village hallBooks, Chocolate, Bottles, Jewellery, Raffle Prizes, Toys,

Unwanted Gifts and HomewaresSaturday 16th & Sunday 17th August - 10 am till 12pm

On the first Saturday of the each MonthDates are 2nd August & 6th September

10.00 am - 1.00 pm - Gates open 9.00am

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Norton, Leigh & District 67th Horticultural Show

VEGETABLES, FRUIT, FLOWERS,

WINE, PRESERVES & CAKES

NORTON VILLAGE HALL SATURDAY 9 AUGUST 2014

Doors open at 2.30pm Prizes will be presented by Elaine Horton

at 3.30pm including an auction of donated class exhibits in aid of the Great Western Air

Ambulance Charity

Admission 50p (Children Free)

Schedules available from: Karen Beeson 01242 680491, Helen Smith 01452 730218, Jo Robson 01242 680257 and Anna Turner 01452 731526

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Norton RFC 7s Tournament and Family Fun Day 11am 2nd August at Norton playing fields

RFU 7s Tournament Hog roast Bar

Craft fayre Stalls and games for the children with a rugby theme Free entry free parking The Heart and Soul Community Choir will be performing the second in the Ticket & Tin series of concerts at Watson Hall Tewkesbury on Saturday 4th October at 7 pm. To book call 01684 275641. More details in next month’s magazine.

G.S.D. 2000 Rescue and Re-home

COMPANION DOG SHOW Sunday, 31st August 2014

At the Plant Centre, Tewkesbury Road, Uckington, Cheltenham GL51 9SL

Show opens midday Registrations from 11 a.m. All classes £1 to enter Rosettes to 6th place throughout

All the usual awards for the 6 Pedigree classes

Kathy Moyse Annual Memorial Cup for the Best Rescue Dog £10 and a cup to keep for winners of the 13 Novelty classes

Best Novelty in Show wins £20 and the Annual Rushwood Cup Fun Agility, Fun Obedience, Good Citizen Bronze Test

Stalls, Refreshments, Fun for Kids, Dog Scurry

Registered Charity 1078823

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Neighbourhood Development Plan - update As previously reported, the three parishes of Down Hatherley, Norton and Twigworth have got together to prepare a Neighbourhood Development Plan (NDP). Representatives from the three Parish Councils along with some local residents have formed a steering group to oversee this. A Neighbourhood Development Plan gives the best chance to influence the Joint Core Strategy (the strategic plan for Cheltenham, Gloucester and Tewkesbury) and the new Tewkesbury Borough Plan, which is also being prepared at present. Work on the Plan so far Since the Autumn of 2013, we have carried out the following work: Engaged consultants to advice us on flood and water management, and on transport matters Considered the following topics in the Steering Group and in public events:

- Flooding and water management - Traffic, transport and accessibility of places - How the design of any new buildings and infrastructure should match the area’s distinct local character - Identification of places and features of the Parishes that people wish to see protected and cared for. - What the designation of ‘Service Village’ (under the Tewkesbury Borough Plan and the Joint Core Strategy ) could mean for Norton and for Twigworth. Down Hatherley is not a service village.

Future Timing The draft Neighbourhood Development Plan should be ready in the Autumn, and everyone in the three parishes will have the chance to see and comment on it by the end of the year. By then we should also know the final detail of the Joint Core Strategy and sufficient information on the emerging Tewkesbury Borough Plan. Forthcoming meeting 11 September, 7pm - 9.30pm, Norton Village Hall A workshop to discuss: Community services in the three Parishes – what are the priorities for Twigworth and for Norton, given their Service Village status?

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Enterprise in the three Parishes – what can our Plan include to help businesses and livelihoods in the area? This event is open to all. If you’d like to be involved with the Neighbourhood Development Plan, or have any queries please email or phone: David Joy: davidjoy99@hotmail.com 01452 731732 Web site and facebook updates News and Updates on the Neighbourhood Development Plan can be found on… www.down-hatherley-village.moonfruit.com www.nortonglos.btck.co.uk www.facebook.com/NeighbourhoodDevPlan

Chris’ s Corner Well, it all set off at a romp, the plants grew with real enthusiasm, an apparent desire to show themselves

worthy of our attentions and then came the sun, scorching and blistering, slowing growth to stand still. Plots cracked and many a damaged plant suffered as every careless water splash became a magnifying glass and delivered new

scarring. I am reminded of childhood and lying in long grass playing with a lens, watching dry grass writhe and smolder. The far off days of innocent mischief, thank goodness we have new legislation. I have, this year just kept sowing seeds, trying again, playing catch up, confident that I will be rewarded. I have just sown some more dwarf beans, have lettuce seedlings to transplant and my first Spring Cabbage to set out and I have some more Perpetual Spinach. The dwarf beans are certainly worth the trouble, they grow quickly and even the small plants want to flower and crop. I want something to make up for my runner beans, which are, in spite of my best efforts very disappointing. They have been very slow to make growth. They are alive so will probably just come in late. All across the garden everything is about maintenance, watering, dead heading and feeding. Harvesting has been equally important, keep the crop picked as soon as it is ready, plants, fed up with the struggle have

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just run to seed. In the flower borders, the same rules apply, I don’t think that I have ever picked so many Sweet Peas. The flowering across the garden has been lovely, the Roses quite magnificent, with plenty still to come. The Mildew and Black Spot has been a little tiresome, but the watchful will pluck off damaged leaves and reduce the blighting. The planting of bedding plants went on forever and now, within a few days autumn material will start to arrive in garden centres. Can we really be talking Winter Pansies and bulbs already? We can, some centres already have some.And finally; ever the adventurer, a month ago I came across a seed company that was new to me and spent a whole evening reading theircatalogue, eventually listing things that I had never heard of. I am now growing Tree Spinach (which can grow up to 7 feet) and Perennial Climbing Spinach which can do 10. This second item is very special being vigorous, nutritious and very attractive. Ok…very sad I know……..but quite exciting.Happy Gardening.

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House of Robinson SOFT FURNISHINGS AND DESIGN

PROPRIETOR: - Mrs Sallyann Rolfe

26 LEWIS AVENUE, LONGFORD, GLOUCESTER, GL2 9BQ 07721 768577 01452 305381

www.houseofrobinson.co.uk

Soft furnishings individually designed to suit your lifestyle and budget,

from simple roman blinds to intricately designed curtains, expertly made

to measure soft furnishings, from your fabric or our own.

● Handmade curtains ● Roman blinds ● Swags & Tails ● Pelmets ● Bedspreads ● Loose Covers

We offer a consultation service in the comfort of your own home,

with a wide choice of fabrics, trimmings, curtain poles and rails.

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JOHN HARTLAND

FIREWOOD LOGS & KINDLING

Delivered – small and large loads

07811 340975 or 01684 275859 www.glosfirewood.co.uk

Mobile firewood processing unit, log splitting service and tractor hedge-trimming

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~ Milk ~ Fruit Juice ~ Eggs ~ Cream ~ Bread ~

M C HALE (Dairyman) Est 1961

Doorstep Deliveries

Phone 01452 730067 email:ourmilkman@aol.com Text 07919 131 952

www.mchaledairyman.co.uk

FIREWOOD FOR SALE

Seasoned Ash and Oak split firewood available for collection or delivery in 300kg bags or 15kg nets

Contact:- Woodsman Matt Shaw 07921 680052 Or email:- jtedwards@sterlingsimmentals.co.uk

Boddington Estates Ltd, Boddington House Farm. 01242 680609

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HAY & STRAW FOR SALE

WALLSWORTH FARM, SANDHURST, GLOS GOOD QUALITY SMALL BALES

Call at the farm, one mile from the A38 Tewkesbury Road Delivery Available

For more details call Alan on: 01452 739299 or 07790 815251

Rob Bingham Total Gas Services Services & Breakdown Engineer Installation Natural Gas, L.P.G. & Oil Boilers, Water Heaters, Cookers & Gas Fires. — Landlord Certificates

Tel No. 01452 387278 Mobile. 07789872650

Painting and Decorating Quality Internal & External Decorating

General Handyman & Property Maintenance Free Estimates – DULUX approved

Colin Crosby-Moorton – 25 years Experience Phone: 01452 864029 Mobile 07958 059011

T O V E Y T R E E & G A R D E N S E R V I C E S Fully insured & qualified. Polite & Professional

All aspects of tree surgery undertaken

·TREE FELLING/THINNING/REDUCTION ·HEDGE TRIMMING/REDUCTION ·FRUIT TREE PRUNING

G A R D E N M A I N T E N A N C E ·LANDSCAPING ·GRASSCUTTING ·SLABBING ·TURFING

·DECKING ·WEEDKILLING ·FENCING ·PRESSURE WASHING

Call BEN on 07506070653, email: Toveytrees@yahoo.com

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AIRPORT TRANSFERS

Private HireBy Richard Theyer

Airport, Seaport & Rail Stations Quotes given for all UK

destinations Climate controlled clean vehicles

From 1 to 8 passengers Fully Licensed Insured

& C.R.B. checked Seven days a week by appointment

tel: 01242 680766

mob: 07970 966 801

Michael Kelsall HND Hort/Arb, BSc Land Man

AmmonitePaving &Landscaping

All aspects of :- Landscaping, Design & Construction, Fencing

Patios, Driveways, Arbours, Planting - Also All Types of Tree work, Felling Pruning, Removal & Hedge Cutting.

Fully InsuredFriendly Advice & Free Quotation

from qualified professionals

01242 680922—Mobile 07703 826396

Tod Cottage, The Leigh, GL19 4AG

www.ammonitepavingandlandscaping.co.uk

WE ARE LOOKING FOR NEW PLAYERS FOR 2014

SENIOR TEAMS JUNIOR TEAMS SATURDAY 1ST XI UNDER 15’S SATURDAY 2ND XI UNDER 13’S SUNDAY 1ST XI MID WEEK XI

PLAYERS OF ALL AGES AND ABILITY ARE WELCOME TO COME ALONG, HAVE SOME FUN AND JOIN A FRIENDLY CRICKET CLUB.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE COME AND VISIT US AT

WOOD LANE, DOWN HATHERLEY or CONTACT US THROUGH OUR WEBSITE:

WWW.DOWNHATHERLEYCC.COM

Craft Classes

Workshops

& 121 Craft Sessions

We cover a wide range of Craft Techniques that can be used

for Cardmaking, Paper Crafting, Creative Crafts for

the home & GiftsDie Cutting to Stamping

For more information

Call Sue on 01242 680596 Or 07972805814

Email: birdcagecraftstudio@hotmail.co.uk

www.birdcagecraftstudio.co.uk

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Are you searching for a way to remove a persistent health problem?

Homeopathy is gentle & non-toxic medicine which can remove health problems when a conventional approach cannot: remove or prevent drug

side effects including radiation/chemotherapy, and also helps your body

to heal on emotional, mental and physical levels.

Ring Lynne Shrubb, Homeopath, for chat or a free taster on

01242 680832

A company that’s at the very Heart of the community.

The Robert Hitchins Group

Boddington Manor, Cheltenham 680694

HHATHAWAY � FFURNITURE �

BESPOKE FURNITURE & JOINERY

01452 857857 www.hathawayfurniture.co.uk

COUNTRY KENNELS & CATTERY

Church Farm, Church Lane, Priors Norton, GL2 9LS

A family run kennels offering knowledgeable and caring service for your four-legged family member.

Comfortable heated accommodation, daily walks & exercise given. All visitors must bring an up-to-date Parvo and Kennel Cough certificate

Telephone: 01452 730682 or 07806506513

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LPG and natural Gas, Corgi and Gassafe registered Engineer Free quotations, fully insured, guaranteed workmanship.

08450 507591 local rate call, 07809 201125 mobile 08450 507592 fax line.

Now you can be stress, anxiety or phobia FREE! Want more confidence or to be slimmer and healthier, overcome fears, panic attacks or stop smoking easily?

Psychotherapy, Cognitive Training & Hypnotherapy

FREE Consultation FREE Parking Westgate Hse Gloucester (opp Dunelm) www.Hypnotherapy4Health.co.uk Call Claire today on 07765182127

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MAGAZINE TEAM Editor Canon David Godwin 01452 730435 davidhgodwin@live.co.uk Advertisements Mrs Margaret Brind 01452 730744 magbrind@btinternet.com Correspondents Down Hatherley Mrs Helen Nicol 01452 730025 The Leigh Mrs Sue Roberts 01242 680835 Norton Mrs June Hipwood 01452 730425 Sandhurst Mrs Caroline Watson 01452 730207 Twigworth Mrs Margaret Riddick 01452 712447 Staverton Mr David Bound 01242 680692

LOCAL CONTACTS Clerks to the Parish Councils: Boddington Mrs Diane Hughes The Leigh Miss Kate Tilling 01242 680089 Down Hatherley Mr David Bayley 01452 501796 Longford Mr Paul Ounsworth 01452 526495 Norton Vacancy Sandhurst Ms Pauline Clarke Staverton Mr Paul Ounsworth 01452 526495 Twigworth Mr David Bayley 01452 501796 Local History Group Mr Denis King 01452 730773 Norton Mother & Katy Bailey 07747728475 Toddlers Group Norton W.I. Mrs Josie Wragg 01242 680235 Sandhurst WI Celia Poffley 01452 739487 Scottish Dancing Mrs Joan Leyfield 01452 730926 Mrs Pam Parkes 01452 730592 Traidcraft Goods Sarah Sharpley 01452 739179 Ellie Stevenson 01452 739142 UB Youth Club Alison Moseley 07759 458494 Wainlode Quilters Mrs Tilly Page 01452 730046

Mrs Hazel Goad 01452 730360 35

Open Saturdays 9:00 am - 4:00 pm or phone Simon or Louise for your weekday orders.

All British produce reared on the farm.01452 730222 / 07774 420420 (mobile)

Mussel End Farm, Sandhurst, Gloucester GL2 9NT

Nurseries and Garden Centre

for all your gardening needs

Classic Printing 01452 731539

DUNDRY TELEFLORIST - Your flowers delivered anywhere

PONDEROSA PET SUPPLIES - Pets and Pet products

“DOVES’ CAFE” - Coffee Shop

Dundry Nurseries ..... Altogether a better place to shop

Bamfurlong Lane, CheltenhamOPEN 7 DAYS 01452 713124

Mussle End Meats — Your One Stop Butchers

SJ & LE MIDDLEMussel End Farm Meats

Traditional Farm Butchers

� Buy your meat with confidence!� Local, farm-reared and traceable!

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