stewkley girl passes offbeat the winter blues and join the players, stepping out. rehearsals are...

MARCH 2019

THE GRAPEVINE: NEXT ISSUE ON OR ABOUT 1 APRIL. DEADLINE FOR CONTRIBUTIONS & ADS: 15 MARCH

Contact: [email protected]. To advertise: email or call 242137. For editorial: email or call 240950.

Also available online at www.stewkley.org.

Charlie Cunningham is a rising musical star. He attended St Michael’s and Aylesbury Grammar schools, and first developed his love of the guitar guided by Stewkley’s Bunt Scott. Charlie released his debut album, Lines, in 2017 to widespread acclaim from both international listeners and critics. The album brought together his unique combination of deft nylon-stringed guitar playing with dramatic dynamics, creating distinctive spectral melodies. A two-year move to Seville to hone his guitar technique acted as a catalyst to Charlie’s creativity. Taking the percussive and rhythmic qualities he developed there, he began to thread his individual approach together. His songs have received airplay across BBC6 Music and Radio One, whilst on Spotify the versatility of his songs has led to millions of monthly plays. His song Minimum has to date received over 68 million plays. His new single Permanent Way finds Charlie embellishing his sound with subtly arranged synths and an upbeat tempo, whilst still allowing enough space within the arrangement for his distinctive vocals to echo and captivate. His London concert on 26 February sold out in a couple of hours, but he will be playing again at the Queen Elizabeth Hall at London’s South Bank on 12 June. Tickets are now on sale.

LOCAL MUSICIAN SELLS OUT

Also in Grapevine: ● Armed with a good book p.5 ● Airport Anniversary p.7 ● Combating Vandalism p.7 ● Dom helps out at the Rec p.24

Charlie Cunningham

photo: © dimlylitstages.com

NEW GRAPEVINE EMAIL ADDRESS

Stewkley Grapevine now has a new email address.

To send any news items or adverts please now use:

[email protected]. You will receive a response from the usual team member from their new address @stewkleygrapevine.co.uk

The proud O’Hara family from High Street South were at the

Knightsbridge Barracks last month to watch Lois ‘pass off’ at the

completion of her year-long training for the Lifeguards Regiment of

the Household Cavalry. Mum Kim, brother Liam (28) and sister Leah

(26) and close friends witnessed 30-year-old Lois show off her

horse-riding skills as she celebrated her achievement and her new

rank of Trooper.

What made the occasion even more special was that Lois is only the

second lady throughout the Household Cavalry’s 360-year history to

complete the training, the first being in December.

Before she signed up, Lois worked for the horse-racing industry,

caring for the horses and taking them to the races. Her new role also

involves equine care, with the added glamour of ceremonial duties,

including Changing of the Guard at Horse Guards Parade, the official

entrance to St James's Park and Buckingham Palace.

She intends to apply for ‘permanent cadre’ as a riding instructor.

While this is a non-combat role, part of her training involved basic

soldier training at Pirbright, Surrey before joining the Royal

Armoured Corps at Bovington, Dorset, a long way in more ways than

one from St Michael's School in Stewkley and Cottesloe in Wing.

STEWKLEY GIRL PASSES OFF

Stewkley Grapevine March 2019

MONTHLY FEATURE MEET A LOCAL via STEWKLEY‐STYLE DESERT ISLAND DISCS

Feature information researched and written by Bunt Scott

IAN STEDMAN

Home: Orkney Close Age: 49 years and 48 months Years in Stewkley: 19 Occupation: Merchant Banker’s Chief Buyer-basically I buy things, so I am always trying to negotiate a deal. Village Interests:

Fishing for ‘Pasties’ in the local lake. Building stuff and helping out

around the stage for the Stewkley Players. Frequenting The Swan Public House, running to the end of Dean Road and back all too often! Most treasured discs: David Bowie, Life on Mars? Billy Joel, Piano Man Queen, You’re my best friend Various, Now that’s what I call the 80’s Luxury item: Dart Board and my old tungsten darts Book: Dooonks - by Malcolm Clark. This is a sci/fi book written by my cousin and I’ve never read it so I need to get started.How do you think you would cope? I’d do fine; just build a nice shed, put up the dartboard and then go fishing. What would I miss most of Stewkley? The almost boundless and diverse topics of intellectual discussion in The Swan, and of course Stewkley’s wonderful community spirit. What would I not miss? Dog poop on the rec, the weather and commuting to London.

STEWKLEY WALKERS’ PROGRAMME from Alice HorneWalks Programme for March Visit the website or contact individual leaders for more

information. Optional lunch available unless otherwise stated.

Wednesday 27 March The Forest Centre, Marston Vale Meet at The Swan, Stewkley at 9.30am to car-share, or at the Forest

Centre, Marston Moretaine (postcode MK43 OPR) for a 10.30am

start. 5 miles. Well-behaved dogs on leads welcome.

Leaders: George and Thelma 07860 654325.Web: www.stewkleywalkers.org.uk

Stewkley Country Fayre is back SAVE THE DATE

Sunday 23 June Supporting St Michael’s Church and

Milton Keynes Hospital new Cancer Unit More details to follow

Stewkley Singers’ next concertSAVE THE DATE

Saturday 18 May, Brahms Requiem All Saints Church Leighton Buzzard. More

details next month.

Bedfordshire Young Farmers COUNTY SHOW AND RALLY

SAVE THE DATE Walducks Farm, Soulbury Road, Stewkley

Saturday 18 May 2019

POSITION VACANT Level 3 Pre-School Assistant Stewkley Cygnets is currently recruiting

for a Pre-School Assistant. Applicants must have

a Level 3 qualification in Early Years Practice. Applicants must also have experience

of working in Early Years within a day care setting. Hours and salary to be agreed.

If you are interested in applying for this position please contact:

Shelagh Gallacher on 07925 541118 Or email: [email protected]

CLOSING DATE 7/03/2019


VILLAGE DIARY

WHAT’S ON

StewkleyVillage Hall (Reg. Charity No. 231141)

SUNDAY LUNCH Sunday 7 April, 1pm

Tickets £12.50 (inc glass of wine/orange juice) Obtainable from: John Cornish (240333)

Jill Scott (240639) Sheila Fellowes (240596) Sandy Flewin (240076)

MARCH Fr 1 World Day of Prayer 2019, Methodist Chapel,10.30am Mo 4 Book Club, Carpenters Arms, 8.30pm, all welcome We 6 Refuse: blue tops and food bins Th 7 Coffee Stop, Pavilion, 10.30am Fr 8 Susan Sparling, More Memories, Methodist Ch,7.30pm We 13 Refuse: green, garden and food bins Fr 15 Family Bingo, Pavilion, 6.30pm Sa 16 Bunnies & Bunting, 12 High Street North, 11am-3pm Chapel Lunches, 12 noon to 1.30pm We 20 Refuse: blue tops and food bins We/Sa Stewkley Players Spring Production 20–23 ‘Stepping Out’, Village Hall, 8pm Fr 22 Arthur Sara, My Cornwall, Methodist Church, 7.30pm Sa 23 Movies at The Chapel, ‘Mary Poppins’, 3pm We 27 Refuse: green, garden and food bins Stewkley Local History Group, Pavilion, 7.45pm Th 28 Movies at The Chapel, ‘Hidden’, 3pm Sa 30 50th Anniversary: Third London Airport Story, Village Hall, 7.15pm APRIL We 3 Refuse: blue tops and food bins Fr 5 St. Michael’s school closes for Easter, 3.30pm Sa 6 SVCC, Race Night, Pavilion, 7.45pm Su 7 Sunday Lunch, Village Hall, 1pm We 10 Refuse: green, garden and food bins We 17 Refuse: blue tops and food bins Fr 12 Richard Crane, Britain’s Railways – Still in Steam, Methodist Church, 7.30pm Fr 19 Donna Broadbent-Kelly, Good Friday Meditation, Methodist Church, 7.30pm We 24 Refuse: green, garden and food bins St. Michael’s school reopens WEEKLY REGULARS Mon Explorer Scouts, 7.30pm Youth Club, Pavilion, 6.30pm SVCC Winter Training, Sir Thomas Freemantle School, 7.30pm-8.30pm Tues Short Mat Bowls, Village Hall, 2pm Brownies, Pavilion, 6.15pm Wed Daisy Club, Methodist Hall, 10.30am Knit & Knatter 11am-1pm, Blackthorn Nursery Running Club, Rec, 7.30pm Badminton, Village Hall, 8pm WI 2nd Weds of month. Village Hall, 7.30pm Thu Beaver Scouts, Village Hall, 6pm Short Mat Bowls, Village Hall, 7.30pm Stewkley Singers' rehearsals, St Michael's School, 8pm (Term time only) Fri Cub Scouts, Pavilion, 6pm / Scouts, Pavilion, 7.30pm Sat Tennis Club, Rec from 9.30am MONTHLY REGULARS Mon Parish Council, 1st Mon of month, Village Hall, 7.30pm Wed Stewkley Pub Lunch Club, 1st Wed of month, The Swan, 12.30pm Thu Coffee Stop, 1st Thurs of month, Pavilion, 10.30am

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER 2019 Stewkley Methodist Chapel

Friday 1 March at 10.30am

COFFEE STOP 10.30am – 12noon, Thursday 7 March

Stewkley Pavilion.

Watch England in

SIX NATIONS RUGBY at the Rec Pavilion

BAR OPEN. Saturday 9 March 4.45pm; Saturday 16 March 5pm

BUNNIES & BUNTING Megan’s Spring Sale ‐ handmade crafts such as Easter bunting,

decorative eggs, bookmarks and painted pebbles. In aid of Mad About Harry

On Saturday 16 March, 11am‐3pm

At 12 High Street North, Stewkley. www.madaboutharry.org

Stewkley Local History Group

OPEN MEETING Wednesday 27 March

A talk by Steve Nicholl on ‘Walls Work? Evidence of Hadrian’s Wall, Vindolanda and the Vallum’

All welcome to this meeting At the Pavilion, 7.45 for 8pm

Admission £3 includes refreshment For further details please contact Jill Scott 240639

Stewkley Vicarage Cricket Club

RACE NIGHT Sunday 6 April

Doors open at 8pm, First Race 8.20pm £10 Entry inc. Cheese/Biscuits and Nibbles. Bar will be open.

To reserve a place: David Wheeler 07767 690231, Alan Hardings 07548 979636, 242227 or

[email protected]


2ND STEWKLEY BROWNIES – NOT WANT BUT NEED! from Pauline Knowler

Cheryl Knight, the current Brownie leader will be leaving Stewkley

in April and if Brownies is to continue in Stewkley a new leader must

be found.

2nd Stewkley Brownies takes girls aged seven to ten from Stewkley

and surrounding villages, and meets once a week, every Tuesday, in

the Pavilion, from 6.15 to 7.30pm.

Stewkley Brownies is in the fortunate position of having three

experienced guiders helping with the pack and sharing the weekly

running of the sessions, but whom unfortunately are not in a position

to take on the leadership role. The new girl guiding programme

provides ideas for each meeting, and full training will also be given.

If you are interested please email [email protected] or call

into one of the Brownie meetings, where you will be warmly

welcomed.

The Brownies is an extremely popular organisation and 2nd

Stewkley always has a waiting list. 1st Stewkley Brownies closed due

to the lack of a leader, please do not let this happen again.

COMMUNITY BUS TO BUCKINGHAM from Sandy Flewin

The second trial trip with a community bus, arranged with the

assistance of the Winslow and District Community Bus group, took

a party of Stewkley villagers to Buckingham last month.

Although not quite full, the bus left Stewkley at 9.30am and headed

to Buckingham Town Centre, enabling visits to the Old Gaol

Museum, the Chantry Chapel, market and shops. The bus then

picked up everyone and went to Buckingham Garden Centre for

welcome drinks and lunch.

The weather was spring-like making a saunter among the outside

plants a pleasure. The bus returned to Stewkley at 2.30pm with

passengers thanking the volunteer driver and asking when the next

trip would be!

The trip was part of the work being done by Stewkley’s Community

Bus Group, set up by the Parish Council and involving councillors

and other villagers. For more information, call Sandy Flewin on

240076.

To Hire Facilities at the Pavilion call 240347

To Hire the Village Hall call 07582 580229

To Hire the Chapel Schoolroom

call 217795

LETTER – DISTRESSING IMAGES from a concerned village member

I am writing to voice my concern on the graphic images posted in this month’s grapevine.

I appreciate the issue of farmers losing their livestock, and consequently income, as a result of a misbehaved/“hunting-mode” dog. However I do not appreciate sick graphic images being presented in a village newsletter, with what I believe to have a family audience. There was no prior warning on the front page and young children, and even adults such as myself, could have been distressed by these images.

I hope my concern is taken seriously and such issues are displayed more considerately to the village in future.

FRED AND GINGER, OR THE NEXT BEST THING from Gill Morgan

Beat the winter blues and join the Players, Stepping Out. Rehearsals

are going well for the March production, and the Players are looking

forward to welcoming you to the village hall from Wednesday 20 to

Saturday 23 March. The sound track alone will get feet tapping.

Stepping Out was first produced in 1984 and was inspired when

Richard Harris watched an amateur tap class in progress in a church

hall. Although he was outside watching through windows, he could

see how much the students were enjoying themselves, even if they

weren’t very good! He has captured that sense of enjoyment, and has

created a warm and funny play that leaves its audience feeling

uplifted. If the cold, grey days of winter are getting you down – ‘step

outside’ and join Stewkley Players.

Tickets (£6) on sale now from the telephone box office [07845 489

167] or from the Village Hall box office 10am to 12 noon on Sundays

3, 10 and 17 March.

LETTER – AN ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN from Richard Ash

I note with interest the volume of reports on the ‘fixmystreet.buckscc.gov.uk’ website expressing concern at the completely unacceptable state of the carriageway at Mursley Road, Stewkley, exiting the village at High Street North and virtually continuous through the dips.

For many winters in turn this stretch of road deteriorates into a state resembling nothing better than a farm track and each year it ends up being poorly patched at around spring time. Even the patching work is shoddy and driving across the fix rattles the teeth in the jaw.

Given the amount and proximity of the numerous pot holes when combined with the dips blind-sighting drivers, this road is an accident waiting to happen.

I sincerely hope that the Parish Council has noted this on-going problem and will be applying considerable pressure onto Bucks Highways to have the road properly resurfaced.

STEWKLEY WI from Sheila FellowesWendy Warren came to the February meeting and gave us some handy hints on how to tie scarves in a variety of stylish ways. She also had jewellery and scarves for sale.

At the March meeting we will be cheese-tasting. Sue North from The Farm Deli, Winslow is bringing a variety of cheeses for us to taste.

The meeting is on 13 March at 7.30pm in the Village Hall. For more information contact Sheila Fellowes (240596).


ARMED WITH A GOOD BOOK from Roy TaylorThe Carpenters Arms Book Club

meeting in February was

attended by local crime author

Emma Tallon, pictured centre in

(photo right). Emma is based in

Milton Keynes and has been

writing for many years, initially

as a ghostwriter then for herself.

We discussed the first book of

her five-book series about the

Tyler family. Runaway Girl is the

first book and, without being

autobiographical, did draw on

her life’s experiences, having

been previously self-published as

Life Game before she was quickly

signed up by publisher

Bookature; it went on sale last

May. Dangerous Girl followed

swiftly in August, and last month

Boss Girl was published. Emma

has just delivered the manuscript

for volume four and has already

mapped out number five.

Her description of the writer’s

life was fascinating and she entertained us with stories of the editing

process, the tightly managed deadlines and some story lines that

didn’t make the final edit. Eye-opening too was the realisation that

Amazon only print the paperback to order. Emma also talked about

how supportive other crime writers are and how her favourite

meeting was with Lee Child, who was apparently lovely. A thoroughly

enjoyable evening for us all.

Our next meeting is on Monday 4 March at 8.30pm in the Carpenters

Arms. The book to be discussed (and read beforehand), was a 2018

Radio Two Book Club Choice – The Sealwoman’s Gift by Sally

SILENT SOLDIER – NOW YOU SEE HIM from Steve Nicholl, Chairman, Stewkley & District Branch, Royal British Legion

By the time you read this, Stewkley will have had a black silhouette of a “Silent Soldier” standing by the War Memorial for approaching

Magnusson. Set in Iceland and Algiers in the 17th

century, Magnusson re-imagines the true story of a

pirate raid on one of the tiny Westman Islands,

when 400 Icelanders were violently abducted into

slavery in North Africa, among them a pastor and

his wife.

The joy of Book Club is it opens you to reading

something different from your usual choice. Come

and join us and experience something new every

month.

six months. There are real difficulties in positioning such a two-dimensional figure in a way to avoid distracting drivers at a notoriously difficult junction, yet allowing as many people as possible to see it. Nevertheless, almost all Stewkley residents and a very large number of those passing through must now have seen the figure and had a moment to reflect on his message ‘Lest We Forget’. Certainly, the presence of the Silent Soldier can only have helped the magnificent turnout at the Act of Remembrance at the War Memorial and our Poppy Appeal total of just over £4,988. I remember being delighted with the £3,370 collected in 2014 as we marked the start of World War One and industrial warfare; this year you gave almost 50% more. Thank you.

However, for most of us, continued exposure to the Silent Soldier figure makes it just routine. One stops noticing and stops remembering.

Following discussion with the Parish Council and local Royal British Legion, we intend to remove the Silent Soldier from the War Memorial sometime after this edition of the Grapevine. He will reappear some time later, somewhere else in the village, then disappear again and reappear, and continue to do so through the year with just two fixed points: he will be back at the War Memorial for the 75th Anniversary of the D-Day Landings and around Remembrance Sunday.

We hope in this way that you will notice the Silent Soldier afresh many times and remember afresh, both past sacrifices and the continuing needs of struggling veterans and their families, and the literally thousands of servicemen and women currently deployed and needing our support.


SAFE AND LOVING HOMES FOR CHILDREN IN NEED from Bucks County Council

Bucks County Council has described as “an absolute priority” finding “safe and loving homes for children in need” through fostering. While the number of children placed in foster care has increased, BCC is looking to improve even further on current performance.

To encourage people to foster locally, allowances have increased and support improved. There are also a number of recruitment and information events coming up, where those interested can obtain information, for example, about the fostering assessment process and available training. The next events are 13 March in High Wycombe (Micklefield Community Centre, Centre Approach, Micklefield Road, HP13 7FY) and 29 May in Buckingham (Buckingham Opportunities Centre, Well Street, MK18 1EN), both at 7pm – 8:30pm.

More information about fostering is available from 0800 1601900 or [email protected]

CALLING ALL BUSINESSES Plans are well under way for this year’s Country Fayre, which will be

raising funds for St Michael’s Church and the new Cancer Unit at

Milton Keynes Hospital.

This event has been a great success in the past, attracting over 500

visitors and raising a considerable sum for both charities. However,

such an event involves a great many expenses, such as portable

toilets, first aid provision, marquee hire, printing costs, purchase of

Pimms and beer, table and chair hire, fridge and generator hire, as

well as entertainment.

If your business is able to sponsor an element of this expenditure or

make a donation towards it, in return for acknowledgement in the

programme, it would be greatly appreciated.

Please contact Liz Ring: [email protected], 240013.

RIGHTS OF WAY – HAVE YOUR SAY from Bucks County Council

Bucks CC is reviewing its Rights of Way Improvement Plan, which sets out how the public rights of way network will meet the current and future needs of the public. An online survey is available until 31 March at surveymonkey.co.uk/r/Bucks_CC_ROWIP and anyone who uses the network for recreational walking, enjoying the landscape, nature-watching, mountain biking or horse riding etc is encouraged to take part and influence future policy.

STEWKLEY FOOTBALL CLUB STARS OF THE FUTURE Starting from Saturday 2 March, there will be football training every

Saturday at the Recreation Ground for any interested children

currently in Reception year at school, or going into Reception from

September. Please contact Matt: [email protected]

CRICKET TRAINING from SVCC

Pre-season training has started at Sir Thomas Fremantle School,

Buckingham Road, Winslow MK18 3GH, on Mondays 7.30–8.30pm.

Nets are open to all players (past, present and future). It's also a

great opportunity to introduce friends, family or other folks who

are new to the area or to the club - so feel free to encourage people

who don't currently play for the club to come along.

We have plenty of space to work with so, in addition to 'having a

net', we will also have a bowling machine in operation. Qualified

coaches will be present.

Saturday 1st XI – Dates for the diary:

First five fixtures of the season in Four Counties League Division 3

4 May 2019: Sharnbrook/Bromham – Home

11 May 2019: MK Warriors – Away

18 May 2019: Aston Clinton – Home

25 May 2019: Milton Bryan – Home

1 June 2019: Old Bradwell – Away


AIRPORT ANNIVERSARY by John Flewin

It was 50 years ago this month that the unthinkable happened to Stewkley folk. They heard for the first time that their village and its community could be destroyed to make way for Britain’s new national airport.

During the two years that followed, the village went onto a war-like footing as it waged a campaign opposing the plan. It was not alone; the villages of Cublington and Soulbury, and the hamlets of Dunton and Hoggeston, faced the same threat, and supporters from the whole area backed the fight.

The airport site was called Cublington (Wing) even though Stewkley was the biggest community to be threatened with destruction, and the Wing Airport Resistance Association led what became a national campaign, with Stewkley Action Committee playing a pivotal role.

The latter stages of the campaign included a procession of 300 farm vehicles that jammed local roads on a Sunday, the biggest mass demonstration ever held locally with 12,000 people attending, village women invading Parliament, a fake bomb welcoming visiting Government ministers, and threats of violence if the bulldozers came.

Ten years ago I mounted an anniversary production over two sell-out nights at the Village Hall, but since then new film, photos and facts from the time have emerged. They will get a first-time outing on the Big Screen in a new production I am planning for Saturday 30 March.

Amongst the new material are the contents of the minutes of the Cabinet meeting at 10 Downing Street at which Stewkley’s fate was decided, documents now released through the National Archives.

A short time after the airport plan was announced, Stewkley’s streets were the scene of a demonstration (photo above) that attracted television cameras, as hundreds joined the first event of the campaign.

National newspaper cartoonists were so in sympathy with the airport protestors that they donated originals of their work for auction at Stewkley Village Hall, raising money for the fight. The one on the left (slightly adjusted) was by Daily Mail cartoonist Jonathan Pugh.

The Village Hall production Stewkley Forever is to be staged on the Big Screen on Saturday 30 March. Tickets at £6 are available to purchase on-line at www.stewkleyfilms.org. Telephone sales are available from 4 March on 240076.

NEWSPAPER COLUMNIST(S) WANTEDThe Stewkley Village News sections of the Leighton Buzzard Observer and Bucks Herald each need a new writer. Neil Shefferd is imminently stepping down from both roles and his shoes need to be filled so that the Stewkley word can continue to be spread beyond Stewkley’s boundaries. Anyone interested should contact the newspapers direct, or Neil at [email protected]

STEWKLEY VILLAGE HALL from Sheila FellowesThe first Sunday Lunch of the year is on 7 April at 1pm. Come along and meet your friends, or make new ones, and have a good lunch. Tickets are £12.50 and details of how to obtain them are on page 3in this edition of the Grapevine.

Following the intermittent bouts of senseless vandalism across the village, some residents, including new arrivals who have been members in other communities, have asked about Neighbourhood Watch (NHW) schemes for Stewkley as a possible deterrent.

In fact, formal NHW schemes have existed in Stewkley for more than ten years, though there are many less formal groups of neighbours who hold each others’ keys and keep an eye on their houses. But each NHW scheme needs volunteers to organise and keep going, and we are aware of only one that is still active.

The Parish Council is ready to facilitate any new group of neighbouring residents who wish to get an NHW scheme organised, and Thames Valley Police (TVP) has recently reiterated its support for such schemes. If anybody would like more information, the Parish Clerk can put them in touch with the coordinator of the surviving Stewkley NHW scheme or directly with TVP.

COMBATING VANDALISM from Cllr Keith Higgins, Chairman, Stewkley Parish Council

RECFEST RETURNSFollowing last year’s success, Stewkley’s music event, RecFest, is back for 2019 on Saturday 20 July. Further details will follow in the next few months. Some excellent acts are already lined up, along with a wider and more varied offering of food for all the family, plus lots of entertainment for the kids. It’s promising to be another great afternoon, so make a note in your diary – the last Saturday before the main schools finish for summer

GETTING CROCHETYThe Flower and Vegetable Show, to be held Saturday 13 July, will have a new class this year - "Any item of crochet work.”

This replaces the separate knitted-toy class, which will now be included in “Any item of knitting.”

All enquiries to Eileen Humphreys on 240750.

Please note the new Grapevine email address: [email protected].


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PC MATTERSThe following is extracted from the draft minutes provided by Stewkley Parish Council after its December and January meetings. Recent Planning Applications: Several members of the public attended the Open Forum to discuss the proposed Calf Rearing Unit off Dean Road (19/00132/APP). Councillors resolved to object to the application and request a further extension to the deadline for submissions to allow independent advice on several issues, including traffic impact. Other concerns raised included the potential spread of disease, unviable waste management plan and business case, inadequate access, lack of assessment of transport vehicle numbers and movements, smell, pollution and ammoniacal vapours, harm to neighbouring businesses, need for on-site security and other staffing issues.

Other applications discussed included a first floor side extension at 3 Tythe Gardens (19/00001/APP) and a first floor front extension at 2 St Michael’s Close (19/00308/APP) both of which were supported. Regarding the erection of a dwelling on land to the rear of Tythe House, High Street South, (19/00258/APP, amendment to 16/04116/APP) Councillors decided to offer no comment.

66 High Street North / Cricketers: Developers Abbey Mill Homes have sounded positive regarding working with the PC; however, they stressed that they do not have control over third party companies. Discussion took place regarding the closure of the footpath through the development, signs have been erected to forewarn walkers. It seems likely that the path will be closed for the duration of the building works, between one to two years. A provisional lighting plan was circulated and Councillors asked for further information on certain points.

Neighbourhood Plan: The Plan is in final draft form. It will be passed to a consultant for document-setting, then scrutinised by a local developer who acts as Devil’s Advocate for the Steering Group.

The updated copy will then be sent to Aylesbury Vale District Council. Following their requested changes, Stewkley parishioners will be asked for their views. The PC thanked Jannette Eustace for producing a readable report.

Roads and Traffic: Regarding the proposed Oxford–Cambridge Expressway, the PC is in principle opposing any damage to Stewkley and will seek representation for the consultation process through North Bucks Parishes Planning Consortium.

Ivy Lane will be closed between March and June for resurfacing. Contractors are to assist residents with access during the works.

Gigaclear: Grass verges have been resown after each incidence of damage by Gigaclear operatives. Unfortunately, as the ground is so wet, the verges are not getting time to recover from further vehicular damage. Cllr Higgins has prepared signs telling people to keep off the grass, to be sited as ground is reseeded, in coordination with Gigaclear.

Vandalism: Various reports have indicated an upsurge of vandalism in The Spinney, Allotments and Church Furlong. Thames Valley Police will be asked to attend the next PC meeting. An article will be placed in the Grapevine re Neighbourhood Watch (see page 5). Finance: Payments were made / ratified as follows: £48.13 to J Eustace re Neighbourhood Plan expenses; £259.54 to Eon; £480.17 and £72.37 re Clerk’s salary and expenses; £11.70 re travel; £84 re NICS backpayment; £100.16 re Employer NICS; £140.86 to HMRC; £208.50 to Robert Goss re the Wildlife Reserve

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday 4 March at 19.30.

To Advertise in Grapevine Call: 01525 242137

or email [email protected]


COFFEE STOP

In the Pavilion 10.30 to 12 noon on Thursday 7 March

in aid of Mothers’ Union (Away from it all Holidays)

Thanks to all who raised £300 for Little Hearts Matter

MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTER

3rd 10.30am Mr John Bush 10th 10.30am Holy Communion - Rev Donna Broadbent-Kelly 17th 10am Café Church – Mr Arthur Sara 24th 10.30am Rev Broadbent-Kelly 31st 10.30am Mothering Sunday led by the Stewards ● Chapel Lunches – 16 March – 12 noon to 1.30. Advance Notice: Lunches will be on 27 April and no lunch in May ● MOVIES @ THE CHAPEL – popcorn and ice cream on sale Tickets are free. For advance bookings please email [email protected] Mary Poppins- Saturday 23 March – 3pm Hidden Figures - Thursday 28 March – 7pm MUTUAL FELLOWSHIP meets at 7.30pm on Fridays in the Methodist Chapel School Room – all welcome ► 8 March – More Memories – Susan Sparling (Collection for Mutual Funds). ► 22 March – My Cornwall – Arthur Sara ► 12 April – Britain’s Railways – Still in Steam (Collection for Railway Mission).

Hello friends, I have never really been a clean freak but I do like things to be tidy, although I am a little obsessed with Zoflora if I’m honest. I think I inherited that from my mum, who we tease and call “The Bleach Queen”. Over the last six months or so I think there has been a bit of an excitement around cleaning amongst mums, first there was Mrs Hinch and now Marie Kondo is taking things further on

Netflix. For those of you who have yet to come across her, Marie Kondo is a Japanese tidying and decluttering expert who has made millions by encouraging us to find joy and peace in cleaning and organising our homes. Amongst her tips is her advice on storing clothes upright (life changing by the way) and instructing her followers to take all items of one category and pile them in a heap before holding each and determining whether it sparks joy. But it was her advice to thank each piece you choose not to keep that got me thinking. I’m yet to convince my family of the wisdom of thanking an outgrown jumper for what it’s given them before folding it carefully into the charity bag, but I have started to apply the logic to things in my life beyond my jumpers and much loved dressing gown. When I see myself as good at one thing and bad at another, am I hanging on to a version of myself that has served its time and now needs to be laid gently aside with thanks for all it has achieved? When I hold on to particular methods or routines or tasks, am I doing so because they are life giving and necessary or because they’re simply what I have always done? What might emerge if I let myself say goodbye to some things and create a space and time for something new? All those questions are quite seasonal, especially during Lent. At its best, Lent is a chance to simplify life for a time, to remove the distractions that stop us seeing what really matters. The aim is not just self-restraint for its own sake, but rather in order to help us see what we usually miss and give us the time and space to draw closer to God. This year Easter falls quite late and so the first day of Lent, Ash Wednesday, doesn’t arrive until 5 March. I’m not sure exactly what I’ll be giving up or taking on this Lent but I know that it will involve a bit of internal Marie Kondo-ing, a time to think about what is joy-giving and make sure that isn’t squeezed out, and a time to think about what is just clutter, pulling me from what I really want to be. Perhaps even if the house is still a work in progress, I’ll be a bit more ready to celebrate Easter because of it. With blessings Donna x

Methodist Chapel Minister Rev Donna Broadbent-Kelly The Manse, High Street South Tel 240589 Email: [email protected] Web: www.aylesburyvale.org.uk

SERVICES FOR MARCH SERVICES FOR MARCH 3rd 10am Parish Communion 5th 7.30pm Ash Wednesday Holy Communion 10th 10am Parish Communion 17th 4pm Café Communion 20th 10am Wednesday Holy Communion 24th 10am Parish Communion 31st 10am Mothering Sunday – Family Communion † Sacred Space: Midday Prayer in St Michael’s every Thursday at 12 noon. All welcome. † Save the Date: Stewkley Country Fayre – Sunday 23 June in aid of Milton Keynes Hospital new Cancer Unit and St Michael’s Church † To sponsor the illumination of St Michael’s Church, contact Geoff Ball 240765

MESSAGE FROM THE TEAM RECTOR OF THE COTTESLOE TEAM

Dear friends March this year, from a Church point of view, is dominated by Lent. What on earth is that? I hear you say. Well it starts with Ash Wednesday on 5 March with a special Communion service, either in the morning or evening (7.30pm in Stewkley) and includes not just the giving of bread and wine but also the imposition of ashes in the shape of the cross on the forehead. The ashes are made from the burnt palm crosses from last year's Palm Sunday service. This symbolises our sorrow before God for all our failings and a preparation for Lent itself. Over five weeks, leading up to Easter, we travel in our hearts and minds with Jesus the last few weeks of His earthly life before His death and resurrection in Jerusalem. We often follow a study course through this period to help focus our thoughts on these momentous events. Some people fast (rest from eating) on one day a week or reduce consumption generally (not a diet but a spiritual discipline and reminder of others’ hunger). Often any financial savings made are donated to food charities in the UK and abroad. Whatever your personal faith, or none, I commend to you this highly practical way of remembering the needs of others. An Ash Wednesday prayer: Great Creator of life we repent of any actions of ours which have harmed others and the world upon which we live. We praise you that because of your grace and mercy the essence of who we are will continue in the hearts of those who love us. Amen. God Bless Revd Philip

St Michael’s Church Team Rector Rev Philip Derbyshire The Vicarage, Stewkley Tel 240287 Email: [email protected]

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER

Stewkley Methodist Church

Friday 1 March at 10.30am

Service prepared by the women of Slovenia

GRAPEVINE NEXT ISSUE 1 APRIL DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS 15 MARCH

[email protected]


Down Memory Lane

FROM THE GRAPEVINE 10 YEARS AGO…

From March 2009, Stewkley Local History Group was

appealing for family records and photos of the Stewkley

Lads Fallen in the Great War as research began on the

memorial book…heavy snowfall and bitter cold in February

caused the Tythe House snowman to mysteriously don a

Manchester City scarf…Nature Notebook highlighted the

challenges and opportunities that the snowscape brought

for both man and wildlife…the PC announced that the new

wildlife reserve was to be officially opened by Hugh Mellor

CBE during the Celebrating English Village Life weekend in

April…the History Group was also to host a 40th

Anniversary presentation by campaign veteran John Flewin,

about the Third London Airport battle…and Bletchley Park

girl, Betty Faulkner, passed away at the age of 86.

FROM THE GRAPEVINE 20 YEARS AGO…

From March 1999, a Grapevine special edition, Say No to Wing Airport, marked the 30th Anniversary of the successful

campaign to defeat the Third London Airport…Stewkley FC

beat Steeple Claydon 4-1 to face Wingrave in the semi-final

of the Oving Cup…Ingram Murray announced the

withdrawal of the threatened closure of Stewkley Library…

St Michael’s Church introduced a new relaxed service of

Family Worship every second Sunday…Andrew Beer was

holding his Mad Sale No.3 in aid of the Church Bell Fund…

off the court, the Tennis Club team successfully defended

their title in the Scouts’ Quiz to retain the Country Life Cup…

and Harveys’ Deli and Tea Room was about to open in Les

Smith’s old butcher’s shop.

George Edmund Street and Professor Sir Colin Buchanan: Stewkley Heritage Heroes. Working 100 years apart, two icons in the fields of architecture and town planning were central figures in Stewkley’s heritage. The Grapevine relates their contribution to the village, and the link between them.

G E Street (1824-1881) was possibly the leading

Victorian Gothic Revival architect, responsible

for the sympathetic restoration of St Michael’s

Church in 1862. He trained in the offices of Sir

George Gilbert Scott, and by 1862 was Oxford

Diocesan architect with his own practice in

London. During his career he designed over 100

new Victorian churches and restored more than

400, with his most well-known commission

being the Royal Courts of Justice in the Strand.

Drawn to Stewkley by the dynamic vicar, the Rev

C H Travers, Street’s intervention at St Michael’s was a pivotal and

major restoration, which almost turned out to be more radical.

Travers’ aim was to increase the congregation space by demolishing

the west end of the Nave, and meticulously rebuilding the West Front,

stone by stone, more or less on the edge of the present High Street.

This raised many objections and was opposed by many antiquarians

and by Street himself. It is said that Street’s procrastination over saving

the antique fabric eventually led to Travers losing patience with the

idea. Fortunately the church escaped the ravages of a typical Victorian

expansion, and in the end the restoration retained the original Norman

proportions….and restored them in the case of the roofs.

The original brief of increasing the seating provision was never met.

Instead, in 1865, Travers converted a dwelling in Dunton Road to a

chapel-of-ease (now reverted to the home known as Trinity House) to

save the legs of South-end worshippers the mile-long walk to St

Michael’s.

In Stewkley, there is much for which to thank

George Street, close alongside the endeavours of

Colin Buchanan in the 20th century. His was the

dissenting voice on the Roskill Commission’s

plan to build a third London Airport in

Buckinghamshire, which would have flattened

Street’s restoration of St Michael’s Church

beneath a runway.

Professor Sir Colin Buchanan (1907-2001) was

a civil engineer who came to prominence in

1963 when he led a Transport Ministry group

that produced the influential Buchanan Report, published by Penguin

as the concise Traffic in Towns. It described how Britain’s towns and

cities would become paralysed by traffic congestion, and it still forms

the pivot point for policy proposals on urban traffic issues.

Buchanan went on to chairs of Transport and Planning at Imperial

College London and Bristol University, and built a successful

consultancy, Colin Buchanan and Partners.

In 1968-70, he was appointed to the Commission for the Third London

Airport (the “Roskill Commission”) to enquire into the need and timing

for a new four-runway airport to serve the London area, and to

consider and recommend a site. The economic analysis of the

Commission’s 1971 Report, recommending that the site of

Cublington/Stewkley be developed as London’s third airport, was

totally rejected, in a minority, by Buchanan, because of the policy need

to protect the open countryside north of London. He said, “It is simply

unthinkable that an airport and all it implies should be brought

here”, and recommended Maplin Sands at Foulness on the Essex

coast.

The threat to St Michael’s Church became the central theme of a

ferocious, two-year local and national campaign to save homes

and livelihoods.

The rest as they say is history. Success was won and Stewkley

saved, when the recommendation was overturned by the

Government in April 1971…and the third London airport

remains unbuilt even today. Buchanan’s opposition to the Roskill

Commission was borne out of the same environmental

convictions that influenced Traffic in Towns…and many students

of architecture and planning since.

Professor Buchanan was knighted in 1972, and passed away

quietly at home at the age of 94 in 2001.

George Edmund Street

Sir Colin Buchanan

Down Memory Lane

The campaign against the Third London Airport will be the subject of a village hall presentation by John Flewin on Saturday 30 March to mark the 50th anniversary of the fight to save our heritage in Stewkley.


ACCIDENT AFTERMATHThe photograph below shows the remains of a two-car, head-on collision in Littlecote, right on the Dunton boundary, in mid-February. As the detritus was both unsightly and dangerous, residents asked AVDC to arrange for it to be removed, as they do fly-tipping, but at the time of going to press the pile was still there.

Another by-product of the accident was a slippery stretch of road. While granules had been used to absorb most of the car oil (the plastic bag was also left on the verge), the road surface remained dangerous, and the Grapevine’s photographer slipped while positioning himself for a shot.


ULTRA‐FAST BROADBAND ARRIVES ULTRA‐SLOWLYThe installation of fibre broadband has become a bit of a saga for

St Michael's School in recent years, with hopes raised, and dashed,

on several occasions. The School is now, at last, delighted to

announce that last month they finally joined the 21st century with

broadband speeds increasing from around 5mbps to 150mbps. The

difference is reportedly dramatic and will now provide the School

with the springboard to invest in their computing infrastructure,

so that they can provide more opportunities for the children to

develop their skills.

A subsequent phone call to Bucks County Council’s out-of-hours emergency number luckily reached a technician who was aware of the accident and assured the Grapevine that the oil-absorbing granules had done their job, that anything stronger would damage the road surface, “… and please don’t used Fairy liquid as that would make things worse”. What was needed now was some rain to properly clean the road.

This is not the first time the remnants of an accident have not been sufficiently cleared, and the Grapevine has asked the Parish Council to raise it with District and County Cllr Janet Blake at the next opportunity.

ANYONE FOR A STEWKLEY ART GROUP? from Danny Fahy

I am an amateur painter artist and whist looking to join an art group in Stewkley found there isn't one!

If you love art - be it painting figurative, landscape, abstract, surrealist sculptural (or aboriginal-inspired like me) or any other visual inspiration, it would be great to meet up over an absinth or latte to discuss art or current art projects. Who knows where it may lead? If interested please e-mail me at [email protected]

Traditional Pork, Beef & Lamb

Manor Farm, Hoggeston, MK18 3LH. 01296714239.

www.morrisofhoggeston.co.uk Email - [email protected]

Spring Farmhouse Breakfast Weekends (lambing & calving time):

30th & 31st March, 27th & 28th April

‘W� �� es tas�n� H �ef�r� s�e�k�

��e�� r�� loc�� f��!’

Open Friday afternoons & Saturday mornings


Nature WatchA Month of Many Seasons

February saw a huge variety of weather, starting with snow and

freezing rain, then Storm Erik, and, as Grapevine goes to print, it

really feels like spring, with 18C experienced in Hayward Park and

bumble bees on the move.

Aftermath

Storm Erik was certainly not as violent as other recent storms but,

for whatever reason, it left very specific destruction up in the

Littlecote spinney. The header photo shows the aftermath of the

storm. A single tree, amongst many others, was ripped up by its

roots, crashing through two others as it fell. It is believed to be a

grey poplar (populus x canescens), about 100ft tall, and with a

rootball of about 11ft in diameter. At that size, there was no way

Rachael Webb was going to be able to reverse the damage and pull

it back up

(left).

The loss

of one

tree

within a

wood,

and

during a

storm

with far

lesser

winds than others, seemed bizarre, and definitely required further

research.

Wind damage is a major issue for managed forests and woodlands

in the UK, and Forestry Research (a branch of the Forestry

Commission) is committed to researching and advising on the

problem. Its website is full of very technical terms, such as

‘windthrow’ - when a tree is uprooted (seen perhaps like caber-

tossing), or ‘windsnap’ – where the trunk is snapped by the wind

(makes sense). Windsnap is less frequent than windthrow.

There are three main elements involved when it comes to a tree

being windthrown: the way the wind moves around and through

the wood, the height of the tree, the root system and the ground

around it. Other factors such as snow, ice and the health of the tree

are not involved here. This tree was healthy, it was in bud and bore

no signs of canker or fungus.

There is no way of knowing how Storm Erik swirled through and

around the Littlecote spinney that day, but there is no doubt that

the winds were far stronger at Littlecote than in Stewkley.

Windthrow is described as the tree’s trunk acting as a lever. In

other words, the wind pushes against the trunk and because the

trunk is healthy and strong, rather than snapping, it leans to such

an angle that the roots are ripped from the ground. For this reason,

taller trees are more likely to suffer windthrow.

The third element is the root system and the ground. Poplars are

known to be shallow-rooted and this tree was very close to the

pond. When the ground around the roots is wet, they lift more

easily. As seen in the header photo, water had backfilled into the

hole left behind by the rootball, perhaps indicating that pond water

had already been leeching under the tree. But the photo also shows

how close other trees are, so why this one? And why now? It had

survived far worse storms and, so far, this winter has not been

nearly as wet as the last. Despite detailed research, the reason that

this particular tree was singled out for windthrowing remains a

mystery.

Bird Watch

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the RSPB Big Garden

Birdwatch that took place at the end of January. The 2019 results

are not yet available, but local birdwatcher Trish Higgins shared

her findings with the Grapevine. Trish’s results resemble a

Christmas song and include: great tits, blue tits, long-tailed tits,

sparrows, robins, goldfinch, green woodpecker, greater spotted

woodpecker, gulls, jackdaws, wood pigeons, magpie, blackbirds,

collar doves and a flock of starlings. While Trish’s recorded

sightings were positive, she commented that she sees far fewer

blackbirds, greenfinches and starlings than she used to.

As well as her

daytime bird

visitors, the

snowfall last

month revealed

just how many

night-time

visitors pass

through Trish’s

garden (right).

According to the RSPB, “green woodpeckers love ants … they do

most of their feeding on the ground, where they devour lots and

lots of ants.”

But what do

they do when

the ground is

frozen? As seen

here (right),

they resort to

fences,

performing a

wide range of

acrobatics to

get into the

cracks and crevices to seek out their favourite food.

The Grapevine Team was presented with a challenge last month.

Observed

spending an

afternoon in

High Street

North, was this

bird (right), as

first believed, a

water rail? A

water rail’s

distinctive

feature is its long red bill and, after some discussion, it was the

shape and length of the bill that led the Grapevine Team to its

conclusion. It was not a water rail, but a young moorhen (gallinula

chloropus).

Is the UK’s wildlife in crisis?

There are many challenges to UK wildlife currently: declines in

various bird species, myxomatosis and other rabbit diseases

crossing to hares, the decline of fox numbers and the recent global

study that has identified a 40% reduction in insects. One way to get

involved is through the Mammal Society. Visit their website

mammal.org.uk/science-research/surveys/ and download their

Mammal Tracker app.

Rachael is 5’ 7 ½” (1.71m)


Farm WatchBy Richard Heady

Never a quiet time on the farm

We should be taking it easy with the lighter winter workload, but

generally still end up rushing around just as much as normal. We

are trying to

get ahead for

the spring:

cleaning oats

and barley

harvested last

summer to

plant as seed

this spring,

servicing

machinery,

vaccinating

the stock and gearing up for lambing.

The agricultural industry also takes this opportunity to bring us

up-to-date on new legislation, best practice and innovation.

I was lucky enough to attend the National Farmers’ Union

Conference, and hear from the top dogs in our industry, along with

Michael Gove. The main messages I took home are: “food supplies

have never been safer”, if you buy cheap imported food you are

buying “food that would be illegal to produce in the UK”, and that

with growing populations, climate change and water shortages “the

next 30 years will be the most important ever in agriculture”. So in

summary British farmers will need your support now more than

ever.

The predictions for agriculture post-Brexit are concerning. Any

disruption to trade will take its toll, farm support is diminishing,

and our available chemical toolkit for crops is ever reducing.

After a slip-up over the summer, four of our ewes managed to have

some sneaky quiet time with the ram, and this has resulted in some

lambs born two months earlier than planned. Luckily the weather

has been kind and we had the perfect combination of clever ewes

and clever lambs,

so they have been

no trouble, and are

growing on well. If

you get the chance

to see ewes and

lambs in the fields

surrounding

Stewkley, stop and

enjoy the scene,

lambs love racing

each other across

the field and

leaping in the air;

it’s good for the

soul.

If you want to find

out more about what’s happening on the farm you can follow me

at https://www.facebook.com/headysfarm/ and @headysfarm on

twitter and Instagram.



LAKESIDE WALKING by Neil Shefferd

Seventeen members of Stewkley Walkers met at Furzton Lake in mid-February - it was a cold but sunny morning, good weather for an enjoyable walk.

The route took the group alongside the lake for a short distance before leaving around the edge of the Milton Keynes Bowl and circumnavigating the four small Teardrop Lakes, seeing two herons en route. The boardwalk on the edge of Loughton Brook gave views of a variety of waterfowl.

On the way back the group circled around the whole of Furzton Lake before having a good lunch at Furzton Lake's Hungry Horse restaurant, where two more members joined the group.

STEWKLEY WALKERS AGMAt the Stewkley Walkers’ AGM last month, Neil Shefferd was elected

Chairman, replacing Carol Nash who stood down for personal

reasons. Thelma Hearne was elected to the Committee, which now

consists of: Neil Shefferd (Chairman), Peter Wade (Vice Chairman),

Lindsay Keen (Walks Coordinator), Chris Tucker (Treasurer), Alice

Horne (Secretary), Pat Grenfell, Thelma Hearne, Jill and Ian

Skudder and Paul Thomas. 50 members attended.

Air Vice-Marshal Steve Nicholl (Retired) gave an interesting and

informative presentation on “RAF Creation Myths and Other

Stories”.

FIRST SIGNS OF SPRINGDespite the snow on the first of February, before the end of the second week the snowdrops had replaced it, as the photograph (below), taken in Chapel Square by our roaming photographer Karen Gurnett, shows.


HOME MAINTENANCE T.G.R ELECTRICAL Stewkley based, Elecsa Approved Electrician. Sockets, lights etc. Free quotes. Call: 240498 or Mobile: 07840 100501 STEWKLEY DECORATING Quality guaranteed work. Reliable trustworthy service. PDA & FSB members. Fully insured. Call Stewart, 01525 242121 Mobile: 07981 226922 Web: StewkleyDecorating.com DAVE REID. FULLY QUALIFIED CARPENTER Kitchen & bathroom upgrades, staircase conversions, Replacement doors, general maintenance & small building work. 07939 146630 email: [email protected] (Soulbury) JTS DECORATING SERVICE & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Call John on 240372, mobile: 07809 113090, Email: [email protected] SERVICES

WING PARK MOTORS - AUTOMOBILE ENGINEERS Repairs and servicing all makes of car. VW /Audi specialists. Supplier of most makes of tyres. Stewkley Road, Wing Tel: 01296 688256. COUNTRY CATS Small peaceful boarding cattery on a farm in Wing. Inspection welcomed. Gillian Alexander 01296 681104. Email: [email protected]:www.alexanderscountrycats.co.uk

PRIVATE SWIMMING LESSONS For adults and/or children. Small indoor heated pool.

Qualified teacher. The Orchard, High St South Tel: 240240.

STEWKLEY STORAGE LTD For all your storage needs. Domestic & Commercial

Rooms & Containers. Larkshill Farm, Stewkley Rd, Soulbury www.stewkleystorage.co.uk Tel: 240297

MOUNT PLEASANT FARM STORAGE 20 foot shipping containers available for general storage

Short or long term lets at competitive rates Mount Pleasant Farm, Dunton Road, Stewkley

Tel: 07919 556908 or Email: [email protected]

DISPLAY ADS

STORAGE

COUNTRY FRAME The complete picture framing service. From prints and posters to paintings and needlework. Tel: 240163 / 07771 508805 : Paul Body. Please call first. 1-2-1 TUITION IN MATHS, SCIENCE, ENGLISH Maths, Science/Physics: KS1-4, English: KS2. Inc 11+ Qualified 121 tutor with CRB. Call Roger Crews on 07946 568153 or Email: [email protected] HORSE RIDING LESSONS IN STEWKLEY From complete beginners to experienced riders. Adults and children. Fully licensed/ insured. Call Sarah Gammon, Kilnholm Stables. 240529 or 07712 854034.

THE GRAPEVINE, STEWKLEY

The Stewkley Grapevine is published monthly, except for January. Copies are distributed free of charge to all households (over 780) in Stewkley. Further copies are made available for visitors at various locations in the village. It is also available for download at www.stewkley.org Publication date: 1st of each month except January. Deadline for advertisements: 15th of month prior to publication. Advertising Copy: By email to [email protected] or by hand to 111A High Street South. Display Ad Format: Electronic advertisements should be supplied as .pdf, but we can also accept .doc or hi resolution .jpg files For best quality, images should be 300dpi. All advertisements are printed in greyscale. Please check your ad is readable in monochrome. Pre-paid ads may be changed at no extra cost. Classified Ad Guidelines: Generally one line header, plus up to 12 words of text, plus contact details. One line header plus 13- 24 words of text, plus contact details for twice the price. Advertising Rates: Stewkley Non-Stewkley For Sale (Max of 2 items) £5 £10 Classified £5 £10 Classified highlighted £10 £20 Forthcoming events Free* Not available (*Limited to Classified Allowance). Display, Eighth Page £15 £25 (w:93 x h:65mm landscape) Display, Quarter Page £25 £35 (w:93 x h:135mm portrait) Display, Half Page £35 £55 (w:192 x h:135mm landscape) Ad Payment Terms: Payment in advance of first publication 3-5 issues 5% discount 6-10 issues 10% discount 11 issues (annual) 15% discount Monthly Standing Order on 12th of month. 10% Discount. Minimum period - 6 months. Cost of 11 Issues is spread over 12 months. Ad Payment Contact: 01525 242137 or email: [email protected]

Next Deadline for Ads: STRICTLY 6pm Friday 15 March

ADVERTISING IN THE GRAPEVINE REACHES EVERY HOME AND

BUSINESS IN STEWKLEY

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Email: [email protected].


LOGSCall: 07835 175402



LOGSCall: 07835 175402



LOGSCall: 07835 175402



LOGSCall: 07835 175402


Home & Small Business IT Support

Home Support ‐ NEED Simple computer help? Explained in a way that you can understand? I can also help with any computer problems, servicing or purchasing advice. Small Business support ‐ Are you a small business who wants IT to save you time and help you grow? Learn about a simple way to take card payments, have a stock management system, how to keep your customers informed, make Social Media work, have an integrated website and a linked Accounts system.

Call Henry on 07970 259465 ‐ based in Stewkley [email protected] Over 20 years’ of IT experience

CAMBER SANDS, EAST SUSSEX

Parkdean Resorts

Open for hire all year round

Privately-owned 4-berth static caravan

with verandah and 2 bathrooms

Small dogs allowed

4 miles from Rye

Near RSPB reserves

and Romney Marsh churches

Tel: 01525 384420

or 07780 765081

PELLETED

MANURE TUB WITH THIS ADVERT

DAMIAN STEWART PLUMBING & HEATING

PROFESSIONAL QUALIFIED PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEER

● For all your Plumbing, Gas, Oil & Heating requirements

● Boiler & appliance installations, system upgrades, servicing, fault finding & repair

● Oil‐boiler and tank installations, service & repair

● Complete bathroom installations & design

● No job too small / Fee no obligation quote / No call out charge

Tel: 01296 688968 / 07527 900028 E mail: [email protected] www.damianstewartplumbing.co.uk

7 Chiltern Road, Wingrave, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP22 2QQ


Chappell

Plumbing and Heating Ltd

Fully qualified and insured

gas safe engineer.

All central heating and

hot water work undertaken.

Boiler servicing,

breakdowns and installations.

Landlord certificates.

Stewkley based.

07725 480047

[email protected]

568424 www.chappellheating.co.uk

J & J LUXFORD LTD

Stewkley based builders For all your building needs project

managed from design to completion For testimonials and information visit

www.luxfordbuilders.co.uk Contacts:

Julian Luxford 07885 455203 James Luxford 07860 726741

Forge Farm, Wing Road, Stewkley

Andrew Gurnett

Mobile: 07980 600095Tel: 01525 240991

Automotive Engineers

Servicing Tyres

RepairsMOT’s

Exhausts& more

For a reliable service and all your motoring needs, give me a call

Stewkley

Aylesbury Vale Golf Club

Forge FarmWing


(Opposite Aylesbury Vale Golf Club) Wing Road, Stewley, Beds. LU7 0JB Telephone : 01525 240837

Regular Opening Hours : Tuesday - Sunday 10am to 4pm

(Closed Mondays)

Throughout the year we have a great range of Herbaceous Perennials,

Shrubs, Roses, Alpines, Herbs, Cacti and Bedding Plants

SAVE THE DATES Easter Egg Hunt, 19th, 20th,21st & 22nd April. Search for the giant eggs, find the clues to win your egg.

£2.00 per child which includes “The Hunt”, chocolate egg and a bag of bird food (for the nursery birds!!) There will also be lots of chicks and ducklings to see.

SPRING EVENT – Saturday 25th May. Raising money for Headway Aylesbury Vale. AUTUMN EVENT – Saturday 26th October. Raising money for Breast Cancer Now.

XMAS EVENT – Saturday 7th December. Charity to be decided.

New look Cath’s Cabin – More tables & chairs so you can come along with your friends to have a chat, and enjoy a coffee. Join our Weds Knit & Knatter group 11am – 1pm

. Follow us on Facebook: BLACKTHORN NURSERY Gardening Tips ‐ New Stock ‐ Event Information

A.B.EATON ● BATHROOM DESIGN & INSTALLATION ● PLUMBING HEATING ● UNDERFLOOR HEATING ● TILING & REFURBISHMENT ● APPRENTICESHIP SERVED ● OVER 35 YEARS EXPERIENCE

CALL FOR A FREE QUOTE

07801 938632

WOBURN BUILDING

SERVICES

Specialised building work

New builds and extensions

Kitchens supplied and fitting service

Bathroom design and fitting

Interior and exterior alterations

Stewkley- based

STUART JAMES COLEMAN

01525 242111 : 07970 888236


www.woburnbuildingservices.co.uk

EST 1986


D.B'S GAS PLUMBING AND HEATING SERVICES

Local village company with over 25 years experience.

Boiler breakdowns, repairs & servicing. Full heating installations and extensions.

Gas safety checks and certification NO JOB TOO SMALL

All workmanship fully insured O.A.P. 10% DISCOUNT ON HOURLY RATES

NO CALL OUT CHARGE. COMPETITIVE RATES. Tel office: 240784

Tel Daron: 07799 122971

ANNETTE GESOFFAdvanced Clinical Massage

Therapist AN EFFECTIVE TREATMENT FOR MANY

CONDITIONS Visit my website for further information:

www.gesoffmassage.co.uk Please phone: 01525 240135 or 07709 629283

Or email: [email protected]

1/2 doz ......£1.00 1 doz ........£1.75 Tray ..........£4.00

Littlecote Farm Shop Littlecote MK18 3LN

FREE RANGE

EGGS

(volume available for catering - please enquire) * Out of hours hut now available *

10am - 7pm Mon-Sat Coffees / Wagyu Burgers

Gluten Free Products Local Honey

Fresh cakes / Biscuits Gifts / Cards + More


KG HAYERS

Fully Qualified Carpenter & Joiner

All Aspects of Carpentry & Maintenance Work

● Doors ● Windows ● Locks ● Double Glazing Repairs ● Kitchen Units & Worktops ● Painting & Decorating ● Refurbishment ● General Property Repairs ● Domestic, Commercial ● Bespoke services ● CSCS Gold Card ● Fully Insured

Free Quotes

Contact Karl T: 01525 240484 M: 07855 749610 E: [email protected]

Computer Support for Home & Business Users

Problem Solving: Virus, spyware detection & removal Internet & email assistance Fault diagnostics, repairs & upgrades Slow running PCs

Services: Computer support for PCs, Mac & Linux Wireless & wired networking Data recovery Install & setup Health checks Sales: Desktops, laptops, printers, peripherals & software

For friendly advice call John on

07968 536068 or 01525 261381

email: [email protected] - www.computamation.co.uk Computamation Services Ltd - 9a Lower Way, Great Brickhill, Bucks, MK17 9AG

Established 1999 with over 25 years experience

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Heard in The Swan last month

‘Advertising in Grapevine has kept me in business in Stewkley for 12 years.’

Is it time you advertised in Grapevine?

Rates on page 15. Contact: [email protected]


K.J. WINDOWS & DOORS

UPVC WINDOWS & DOORS

CONSERVATORIES

FASCIA & SOFFITS

BI-FOLDING DOORS

ALL REPAIRS, INCLUDING MISTED & BROKEN UNITS

ALL WORK GUARANTEED www.kjwindows.co.uk

CALL KEITH 07539 367200

Beechmoor Farm, Cublington Road, Whitchurch Home Produced Meat : Pies, Cheeses & Olives : Fruit & Veg Milk, Bread & Eggs : Pickles & Preserves : Frozen Produce

Open Tues, Wed, Thurs & Fri 8am -5pm

Saturday 7.30am - 1pm (closed Sunday & Monday). Tel: 01296 641207 : Email: parrottbros@parrottbros.co.uk

Web: www.parrottbros.co.uk

Stewkley Cygnets PreSchool“Dedicated to the provision of

outstanding childcare”

We provide a safe and fun environment with a wide range of toysand activities for the children to express themselves and develop.

Our large garden provides extensive opportunity for outdoor play.

Our team of highly qualified staff are committed to providingexceptional care and education that ensures our children's

progress towards the Early Learning Goals.

We offer places for 2 to 5 year olds

• Morning sessions: Mon to Fri 9.00am -12.00 noon • 2 yr old sessions (PAFT): Mon to Fri 9.00am -11.00am

• Lunch Clubs available: Mon to Fri 12.00pm - 1.00pm

• Rising 4s afternoon session Wed & Thurs 1.00pm - 3.30pm

For further details please call 01525 242151 or [email protected]

Pre-School Building, St. Michael's School Grounds, Chapel Square, Stewkley

“Why leave the comfort of your own home to have a great haircut?”

I am one of Britain’s top stylists with over 10 years experience as Manager

and Art Director for Toni and Guy. Book me to come to your home at a time of your choosing

50% OFF INTRODUCTORY OFFER FOR ALL NEW CLIENTS

Tel: 07738 658234

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

Visit Superhairday on Facebook for 50 of 5 star reviews from my clients and pictures!

SUPERIOR INTERIORS DECORATING SERVICES

Provide a highly professional and comprehensive decorating service with over 30 years experience

PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION www.superiordecor.co.uk

Contact Jim Munro

Mob: 07788 921865 Tel: 01525 240741


07925 541118


07464 171032

[email protected]

www.odd-jobs.co.uk

BIKE SERVICE/SALES HOME MAINTENANCE

DECORATING FLOORING

GARDENING STABLES & FENCING

TV & CCTV WEB DESIGN

Handyman based in Drayton Parslow, covering Milton Keynes, Leighton Buzzard,

Aylesbury and surrounding areas.

Save up to 50% on your main dealer prices Audi qualified & licensed technicians with over 54 years combined experience Diagnostic repairs with the latest equipment All servicing and mechanical repiars carried out to the highest standards including brakes, clutches, cambelts etc Complimentary courtesy car subject to availablility MOTs, Tyres and puncture repairs

www.vass-tech.co.uk T: 01296 641429 E: [email protected]

5A High Street, Whitchurch, Buckinghamshire HP22 4JU

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTORS NCH Horticulture. City & Guilds Garden Design

A professional company working with all your garden requirements from design to complete landscape.

07773 723236 www.charleshillgardenservices.co.uk

www.allyearoundbbq.co.uk

CHARLES HILLGARDEN SERVICES LTD

DESIGN BUILD MAINTAIN

CAJ ELECTRICAL

Local Village Electrician based in Stewkley.

No job too small with all work guaranteed and certified.

New fuse boards, indoor and outdoor lighting

additional sockets or new power supply to garages, all domestic work carried out.

Call: Craig 07968 152 709 Email: [email protected]


Local friendly village automotive garage offering: ● Servicing ● Repairs ● MOTS on site ● Diagnostic and tuning ● Tyres ● Exhausts ● Batteries We also offer the service to collect and deliver vehicles from the Leighton Buzzard area.

Courtesy car available by prior arrangement.

Contact details: Unit 3-4, Manor Business Centre High Street South, Stewkley 01525 240696

HUNTER’S GARAGE

12 Bacon House Farm • Little Horwood • Milton Keynes • MK17 0PS

[email protected] • www.harlequin-press.co.uk

HARLEQUIN P R E S S L t d

Lithographic and Digital Printing

Friendly Service, Free Advice

Tel: 01908 506722

Booklets Brochures

Business Cards Compliment Slips Delivery Notes

Directories Draw Tickets Event Tickets

Invitations Invoice Books/Sets

Leaflets Letterheads Magazines

Newsletters Note pads

Order of Service Personal Stationary

Postcards Programmes Timetables

27 years in print

BLOCKED DRAIN?

COUNTY DRAINAGE & PLUMBING SOLUTIONS

YOUR LOCAL DRAINAGE EXPERT

WITH OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE

01525 222439 or 07944297538

High Pressure Water Jetting ‐ CCTV Survey’s

Specialist in Drain Repair ‐ Replacement and Relining

All work fully Guaranteed


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TAILPIECE TALEHIP HIP HURRAY FOR SIR ANDY

Stewkley Tennis Club's Dinner Dance returned to the Village Hall in

early February, after a couple of years’ break. The evening proved a

great success with 90 guests enjoying great food, good company

and live music.

After a welcome drink, the event started with a three-course meal

cooked by outside caterers and enjoyed by all. Following dinner,

there was a game of Heads or Tails and a raffle draw with cash

prizes. Live music came from Leighton Buzzard-based band Tess

and the Durbervilles, who played a range of popular music from the

1960s through to the present day, which had many people up

dancing. Even Andy Murray made it onto the dance floor,

demonstrating some of his best moves since his hip surgery.

It is estimated that around £800 has been raised from the evening,

which will go towards the court refurbishment fund.

The organisers wish to thank everyone who helped with setting up

on the day and tidying up after the event. A special mention should

go to Alison Gibbs and Lynsey Ford, who were the driving force

behind the event, Jo Dyer for providing the tennis-themed table

decorations and Rob Pollard for compering the entertainment, and

to everyone who attended and helped support the tennis club. Ball organisers Lynsey Ford and Ali Gibbs

DOMINIC HELPS OUT AT THE REC from Julie Dawson

The Recreation Ground

Association would like to

thank Dominic Boyd from

High Street North for his

tidying of the play areas

in the recreation ground

and general litter-picking,

as part of his Duke of

Edinburgh volunteering.

This hard work

complemented the non-

stop and invaluable

service of Alan Dickens,

who does sterling work

year-round, keeping this

facility looking fabulous. Before clean and afterDominic Boyd

NEW DEFRIBRILATOR AT THE PAVILIONKeen observers will note there is now an additional defibrillator in

the village, situated on the corner of the Pavilion, funded through

a grant from the British Heart Foundation obtained by the Parish

Council. A successful training evening was held before Christmas

but if anyone missed this and would like further information please

contact Julie Dawson on 240330.

COMING UP AT THE PAVILION

An application to vary condition 1 of planning permission CM/0005/18 has been submitted to Bucks County Council by Red Brick Farm, Dunton Road. RBF has requested that the base of the earth bund be widened to 10m from the currently agreed 3m, because, according to the application, "it has transpired that in order to ensure [the bund] has an appropriately gentle gradient and ensure long term stability that the base needs to be increased in width to around 10 metres. This will also ensure that it appears more as a gentle undulating feature in the landscape. The height of the bund will not be increased."

Further information is available from the BCC Web Site. Deadline for representations to BCC is 12 March.

https://publicaccess.buckscc.gov.uk/online-applications/

RED BRICK FARM - NEW APPLICATION

Another Family Bingo evening will be held on 15 March. Doors

open at 6.30pm with eyes down at 7.00pm. Thanks go to all the

willing helpers who make this event happen, especially to Chris

Mills this time for being a superb caller.

On Friday 3 May we will be holding our third annual Comedy Night.

This year we are really lucky to be welcoming back our compere,

Mark Cram, and the headline act has been confirmed as Craig

Murray, who people will recognise from the Plusnet adverts on TV.

Tickets are £11 for Sports Club members and £12 for

non-members. Over 18s only. Tickets from Julie Dawson 240330.

GRAPEVINE NEXT ISSUE 1 APRIL DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS 15 MARCH

[email protected]

stewkley girl passes offbeat the winter blues and join the players, stepping out. rehearsals are...

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