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TRANSCRIPT
36
SJ & LE MIDDLESJ & LE MIDDLE Mussel End Farm Meats
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for all your gardening needs
Mussle End Meats — Your One Stop Butchers Open Saturdays 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
or phone Simon or Louise for your weekday orders.
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01452 730222 / 07774420420 (mobile) Mussel End Farm, Sandhurst, Gloucester GL2 9NT
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and traceable!
1
No.110 March 2014 Annual Subscription: £6
SEVEN TOWERS’ SEVEN TOWERS’ SEVEN TOWERS’
BENEFICE MAGAZINEBENEFICE MAGAZINEBENEFICE MAGAZINE
Church of England
United Benefice of: Twigworth including Longford; Down Hatherley;
Norton; The Leigh with Evington; Sandhurst;
Staverton with Boddington.
2
WHO’S WHO IN THE BENEFICE
Rector: Rev Suzanne Skepper 01452 731994
email: [email protected]
Day off — Friday.
Associate Ministers: Canon David Godwin 01452 730435
Father David Humphries 01452 529582
Seven Towers Benefice online at: www.seventowers.org.uk
Churchwardens:
Down Hatherley Ann Warriner 01452 730371
Andy Nicol 01452 730025
The Leigh & Evington Mrs Sue Roberts 01242 680835
Vacancy
Norton Mr Simon Trapnell 07774 803177
Mrs Jean Smith 01452 730265
Sandhurst Mr Jim Brown 01452 731900
Mr Pat Collins 01452 731567
Staverton with Boddington Mr Edmund McClure 01242 681139
Mr Rob Buckland 01452 713155
Twigworth & Longford Mr Chris Baldwin 01452 534105
Vacancy
Enquiries about baptisms, marriages and funerals should be directed to
the Rector.
The Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary
‘And the angel said unto her, “Fear not, Mary: for
thou hast found favour with God.
And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and
bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus.”’
Printed by Classic Printing Ltd. Tel. 01452 731539
COVER — LUKE CHAPTER 1
35
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:- [email protected]
Boddington Estates Ltd, Boddington House Farm. 01242 680609
34
A company that’s at the very
Heart of the community.
The Robert Hitchins Group
Boddington Manor, Cheltenham 680694
HATHAWAY
FURNITURE
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 ser-
vice for your four-legged family member.
Comfortable heated accommodation, daily walks & exercise given.
Telephone: 01452 730682 or 07806506513
Are you searching for a way to remove a persistent health problem?
Homeopath is gentle & non-toxic medicine which can remove health
problems when a conventional approach cannot, remove or prevent drug
side effects incl. radiation/chemo therapy and also helps your body to heal
on emotional, mental & physical levels.
Ring Lynne Shrubb, Homeopath for chat or a free taster on
01242 680832
3
FROM THE STUDY WINDOW
To give up or give it a try?
Lent is almost upon us, we begin it Wednesday the 5th March with
a service in Staverton Church at 7pm.
The forty days of Lent, not including Sundays, is an echo of
Christ’s fasting in the desert as a prelude to a major change in
his life, the beginning of a ministry that would change the face
of history. When he called his followers to give up anything,
that too was in order to set them free to follow a new direction.
Maybe you are giving up chocolate for
Lent or facing a more major kind of
change in your life.
As a Benefice, we too are facing
change. We will shortly be giving up
our regular services on the second
Sunday of each month and joining to-
gether for one distinctive service
(news of which will follow shortly).
As we prepare for change , why not join me at the Rectory,
(starting March the 10th and then for 4 consecutive Mondays),
when we will hold our Lent course, using the film , ‘Chocolat’,
which explores God, the world and what it means to be human.
Yes! Give up chocolate for Lent by all means but why not give
‘Chocolat’ a try!
(Please contact me on 01452 731994, if you want to come and
haven’t signed up in church).
Thanks
Suzanne
4
PRAYER DIARY — MARCH
33
Editor Mr Mike Dill 01452 730767
Advertisements Mrs Margaret Brind 01452 730744
[email protected] 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 730700
Staverton Mr David Bound 01242 680692
Clerks to the Parish Councils:
Boddington Mrs Diane Hughes
The Leigh Miss Kate Tilling 01242 680089 ([email protected])
Down Hatherley Mr David Bayley 01452 501796
Longford Mr Paul Ounsworth 01452 526495
Norton Mr David Cooper 01452 537831
Sandhurst Mr David Cooper 01452 537831 07766004001
Staverton Mr Paul Ounsworth 01452 526495
Twigworth Mr David Bayley 01452 501796
Local History Group Mr Denis King 01452 730773
Norton Mother & Toddlers Group Katy Bailey 07747728475
Norton W.I. Mrs Josie Wragg 01242 680235
Sandhurst WI Celia Poffley 01452 739487
Scottish Dancing Class 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
MAGAZINE TEAM
LOCAL CONTACTS
32
Readings to 31st March 2014: Year A
Sunday 2nd March Green Sunday before Lent
First Reading Exodus24: 12—18
Gospel Matthew 17: 1—9
Psalm 2
Wednesday 5th March Purple Ash Wednesday
First Reading Isaiah 58: 1—12
Gospel Matthew 6: 1—6, 16—21
Sunday 9th March Purple Lent 1
First Reading Genesis 2: 15—17, 3: 1—7
Gospel Matthew 4: 1—11
Psalm 32
Sunday 16th March Purple Lent 2
First Reading Genesis 12: 1—4a
Gospel John 3: 1—17
Psalm 121
Sunday 23rd March Purple Lent 3
First Reading Exodus 17: 1—7
Gospel John 4: 5—42
Psalm 95
Sunday 30th March Purple Mothering Sunday
First Reading Exodus 2: 1—10
Gospel John 19: 25—27
5
MARCH
Sunday 9th March Lent 1
Sandhurst Holy Communion 9:30 am Rev Suzanne
Twigworth Holy Communion 11:00 am Rev Suzanne
Down Hatherley Evening Prayer 6:30 pm Team
Norton Morning Prayer 9:30 am Team
The Leigh Holy Communion 9:30 am Canon David
Staverton Morning Prayer 10:00 am Team
Boddington No Service
1 Ladies’ Breakfast Group (See MONTHLY MEETINGS Page: 12)
1 Men’s Breakfast Club (See MONTHLY MEETINGS Page: 11)
1 Coffee Morning at The Leigh (See AROUND THE PARISHES Page: 17)
1 Norton RFC (A) Cainscross 3pm
Sunday 2nd March Sunday before Lent
Sandhurst Evening Prayer 6:00 pm Team
Twigworth Morning Prayer 10:30 am Team
Down Hatherley Holy Communion 9:30 am Fr David
Norton Holy Communion 11:00 am Rev Suzanne
The Leigh Evening Prayer 6:00 pm Team
Staverton
Boddington
Holy Communion
No Service
9:30 am
Rev Suzanne
2 Messy Church (See EVENTS Page: 20)
7 Pudding Evening, Nature in Art (See EVENTS Page: 13)
8 Norton WI Spring Show (See AROUND THE PARISHES Page: 15)
8 Norton RFC (H) Tredworth 3pm
Wednesday 5th March Ash Wednesday Staverton 7:00pm Rev Suzanne Benefice Service
Holy Communion & Imposition of Ashes
Friday 7th March Women’s World Day of Prayer Twigworth See EVENTS Page: 19 7:00pm
6
MARCH
Sunday 23rd March Lent 3
Sandhurst Holy Communion 9:30 am Fr David
Twigworth Holy Communion 11:00 am Rev Suzanne
Down Hatherley Evening Prayer 6:30 pm Team
Norton Morning Prayer Team 9:30 am
The Leigh Holy Communion (Said) 8:30 am Rev Suzanne
Staverton No Service
Boddington Evening Prayer 6:30 pm Team
17 Lent Study Group (See MONTHLY MEETINGS Page: 11)
19 Staverton & Boddington PCC meeting
20 Norton WI (See MONTHLY MEETINGS Page: 12)
20 Staverton & Boddington Thursday Club (See MONTHLY MEET’ Page: 12)
22 Down Hatherley VH AGM/Coffee Morning (See AROUND THE P’ES P: 18)
22 Down Hatherley Spring Fling (See AROUND THE PARISHES Page: 18)
22 Sandhurst Cheese & Wine (See AROUND THE PARISHES Page: 16)
22 Jumble Sale Norton Village Hall (See AROUND THE PARISHES P: 15)
22 Norton RFC (A) Smiths’ Industries 3pm
Sunday 16th March Lent 2
Sandhurst Family Service 9:30 am Team
Twigworth Morning Prayer 10:30 am Team
Down Hatherley Holy Communion 9:30 am Canon David
Norton Holy Communion 9:30 am Fr David
The Leigh Evening Prayer 6:00 pm Team
Staverton No Service
Boddington Holy Communion 11:00 am Rev Suzanne
10 Lent Study Group (See MONTHLY MEETINGS Page: 11)
31
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Climate controlled clean vehicles
From 1 to 8 passengers
Fully Licensed Insured & C.R.B. checked
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tel: 01242 680766
mob: 07970 966 801
Michael Kelsall HND Hort/Arb, BSc Land Man
Ammonite Paving &Landscaping
All aspects of :- Landscaping, Design & Construction, Fencing
Patios, Driveways, Arbours, Planting
- Also All Types of Tree work, Felling Pruning, Removal & Hedge Cutting.
Fully Insured
Friendly Advice & Free Quotation from qualified professionals
01242 680922—Mobile 07703 826396
Tod Cottage, The Leigh, GL19 4AG
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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:
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TOVEY TREE & GARDEN SERVICES
Fully insured & qualified
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All aspects of tree surgery undertaken
*TREE FELLING/THINNING/REDUCTION
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*LANDSCAPING *GRASS CUTTING
*SLABBING *TURFING
*DECKING *WEEDKILLING
*FENCING * PRESSURE WASHING
Call Ben on 07506070653
email [email protected]
30
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
1st CHOICE AERIALS & SATELLITES Aerial Upgrades - Extra Points - Repair work - Storm Damage
All Work guaranteed - Freeview Set Top Boxes
Call 01452 311511
69 Sandyleaze, Longlevens, Gloucester
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
Reg. No
215095
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
7
2 Apr Sandhurst Annual Parochial Church Meeting
3 Apr Norton & The Leigh Horticultural Show AGM
7 Apr Lent Study Group (See MONTHLY MEETINGS Page: 11)
9 Apr Staverton & Boddington PCC & APCM
25 Apr Norton Quiz & Supper (See AROUND THE PARISHES Page: 15)
30 Apr Sandhurst Village Hall AGM (See AROUND THE PARISHES Page: 16)
2 May Norton & The Leigh Horticultural Show Annual Plant Sale
(See EVENTS Page: 19)
3 May Benefice Pilgrimage (See EVENTS Page: 21)
16 May St. Catherine’s, The Leigh: ‘An Evening with Dylan Thomas’
Performance of extracts from ‘Under Milk Wood’ George & Frances Yiend
19 May ‘Walk for Water’ (See EVENTS Page: 14)
9 Aug Norton & The Leigh Horticultural Show
67th Annual Show
23 Nov Norton Christmas Tree Festival
MARCH 24 Norton & The Leigh Local History Group meeting.
(See MONTHLY MEETINGS Page: 12)
24 Lent Study Group (See MONTHLY MEETINGS Page: 11)
25 Twigworth PCC meeting
25 Norton PCC meeting at ‘Galoway’, Old Tewkesbury Road at 7:30pm
29 Sandhurst Village Spring Clean (See AROUND THE PARISHES Page: 17)
29 Norton RFC (H) Old Elizabethans 3pm
31 Lent Study Group (See MONTHLY MEETINGS Page: 11)
Sunday 30th March Mothering Sunday
Sandhurst Benefice Service 10:00 am Rev Suzanne
April, May etc.
8
BAPTISM
“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)
FROM THE REGISTERS
Finlay George
Ockleton
16 February St. Lawrence’s, Sandhurst
Daisy Sawkins 23 February St. Mary Magdalene,
Boddington
Bethany Louise
Jones
23 February St. Mary & Corpus Christi,
Down Hatherley
Joan Prior
formerly of
Boddington
D. 16 January 91
Keith Lesley
Ashfield of The
Leigh
D. 28 January 61
FUNERALS
“I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies.” (John 11:25)
Next month’s copy date:
For inclusion in the April 2014 edition of the magazine,
copy should reach parish correspondents by 17th March or
be sent directly to Mike Dill by the 18th March.
MAGAZINE COPY
29
Gloucester Academy of
Music at 11a Westgate
Street in Gloucester
offers a range of musi-
cal opportunities:
Singing & Rhythm Groups, String En-
sembles, Wind & Brass Groups, Or-
chestras and Individual Lessons. All
standards from Beginner to Grade 8+
and all ages from 2 years old to adult.
Easter & Summer Holiday Music
Courses also available with a choice of
residential or non-residential options.
01452 385162 [email protected]
www.gamusic.co.uk
MADE
TO
MEASURE Professionally finished
CURTAINS & OTHER
SOFT FURNISHINGS
Fast, reliable service.
Estimates free.
Telephone Jay on
01242 680512
28
~ Milk ~ Fruit Juice ~ Eggs ~ Cream ~ Bread ~
M C HALE (Dairyman) Est 1961
Doorstep Deliveries
Phone 01452 730067 email:[email protected] Text 07919 131 952
www.mchaledairyman.co.uk
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
9
FEEDBACK
WANTED
BELL RINGING IN THE BENEFICE
It seems likely that in the spring John and Susan
Stedman will be moving to Tewkesbury to be
nearer their daughter.
John is currently Tower Captain at Sandhurst
and wonders if ringers from other towers would
be able to augment our band.
We ring at 9am for the 9.30am service on the second Sunday of each
month and also for weddings.
If you can help please contact Mrs Dee Cheeseman on 830306 or
John Stedman on 424290."
Snowdrop Day Sunday 16th February
at Boddington Manor
After all the wind and all the rain, the sun shone for the whole day creat-
ing an uplifting environment that seemed to entice a very large number of
people to get out and visit the Snowdrops.
The snowdrops put on a magnificent display and a magnificent sum of
£1031 was generously raised towards the upkeep of Staverton and
Boddington churches. Thank you everybody.
WHAT’S ON IN GLOUCESTER CATHEDRAL
24—29 MARCH
Tel: 08456 521823
www.gloucestercathedra.org.uk
10
MONTHLY MEETINGS ROUND UP
Parish Council Meetings:
Twigworth: Meetings held on a Thursday at 7:00pm in St. Matthew’s vestry.
(Door at left side of church)
Mar 6; May 8 (AGM); July 3; Sept 4; Nov 6
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.
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.
Mar 5; April 16 (APM); May 21 (AGM)
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 Holi-
day). All parishioners are invited to attend.
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.
May 14 (AGM)
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.
May 7; June 11; July 30; September 10; November 22.
Staverton: April 30
Meeting at 7:00pm in the Gloucester Room of the Cheltenham
Regency Hotel. All parishioners welcome.
Boddington: The Council meets on the 3rd Wednesday of every other
month at the Cheltenham West Community Fire Station at
Uckington.
27
CHRIS’S CORNER
So much for all of those carefully made plans, I have just watched the
first onion sets float off down the road, the mice have visited every pot
of peas and a recently reawakened snail * has been eating my seed pack-
ets. All very tiresome; it has to dry up soon doesn’t it? When it does, it
really will be all systems go. Why not have a getting to know your garden
day? Identify the very wet bits, the most sheltered and the shaded, it will
enable you to make the best of what you have.
It may even be that the strip by the drive or below a hedge could be un-
der cultivation already. The footings of the drive may be aiding drainage
and other plants will already be taking away some of the moisture. Com-
petitive drinking is not an issue yet, so try pushing through catch crops,
things that will grow in a short season like the salads and ten week summer
cabbage. The hope is that by mid March we will have access to all sorts,
so do check out those seed packets and start some more bits on that win-
dow ledge. In the third week we may be setting out some potatoes, if the
wet continues bring these to life in 9cm pots and let them make a bit of
root before popping them into the ground. Reasonable root development
will encourage catch up in a difficult season. Some hardy flowers can also
be started now, things like calendula, larkspur nigella, cornflower and
sweet William will all stand direct sowing. The lawn has had a very tough
journey, do tread gently. The lawn is a big deal and psychologically the
garden looks so much better when we have delivered the first cut. If the
ground is very soggy, keep off it. Compaction will not help drainage. When
you have settled on the right time, keep the blades up. Be ready for the
moss too.
March is the last month to be considering bare rooted plants and is also a
good time for trees. Anything over three foot should be supported and
should very quickly ‘spring’ to life.
*And finally. When garden snails (Helix aspersa)
eat coloured paper, they poop coloured faeces.
A German artist is hoping to use the material
for colorful tiles, I can see the headlines ‘Gang
of Slugs have a night on the tiles’.
Happy Gardening
26 11
MONTHLY MEETINGS’ ROUND UP
SANDHURST COFFEE MORNINGS
In Sandhurst Village Hall on 2nd
Monday of the month at 10:30am:
March 10; April 14;
May 12; June 9; July 14; Aug
11; Sept 8; Oct 13; Nov 10;
Dec 8.
The Orchard Knitting Club
We meet every Thursday from
10:15 till 12:15 in the Coffee
Shop at Nature in Art,
Walsworth Hall. New members
always welcome regardless of
ability. Bring your own projects or
help with knitting for charity. For
more details contact Mavis
on 07974033428.
MEN’S BREAKFAST CLUB 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 of each month, starting at 8:30am and finishing by 10:00am. If you’re able to make a donation to help cover costs that would be good - but not essential!
Our next gathering will be at the home of Jim Brown– Laurence House, Sandhurst — on 1st March. So that we can order the right amount of sausages, please let Jim know that you will be attending: 01452 731900 / [email protected].
LENT STUDY GROUP
This group will meet at The Rectory on
Monday evenings — 10, 17, 24, 31 March
and 7 April at 7:30pm. The group will
follow the course ‘Christ and the Choco-
laterie’ by Hilary Brand, which is based
on the film ‘Chocolat’. Please sign up at one of the churches if you
will be attending or email:
[email protected] so that we know approximate
numbers.
12
MONTHLY MEETINGS’ ROUND UP
LADIES’ BREAKFAST GROUP
The Ladies’ Breakfast group will meet again on 1st
March from 8:30am - 10:00am at the home of Irene
Crawshaw – Pear Tree Cottage, Walsworth.
More ladies are always welcome and if you’d like to
come, please contact Irene on 731910 (or Mary Limbrick
on 731257. If you’re able to make a donation to help
cover costs that would be good (but not essential!).
Norton & The Leigh Local History Group
Meeting in Norton Village Hall on 24th March at 7:00pm.
The speaker for the evening,
Jackie Birch, will give a talk
on
’The History &
Wildlife of the
Coombe Hill Canal’.
All welcome.
Norton WI Meeting in Norton Vil-
lage Hall on 20th March
at 7:30pm , the speaker
for the evening, Jane
Bailey, will give a talk
entitled: ‘Eats, Cheats
and Leaves.’ Visitors
welcome.
Staverton & Boddington
THURSDAY CLUB MEETING
“Manipulations in House-
craft”
Thursday 20th March at 7.00 pm
at Plymyard, Barrow, Boddington,
home of Bill & Eunice Smith T:680467
All welcome.
25
COLIN’S COMPUTER COLUMN
Change Of course we like to think of ourselves as intelligent, knowledgeable,
astute, adaptable, progressive and ever ready to embrace the challeng-
es of constructive change. And of course we would like to believe that
the large organisations which so profoundly affect the quality of our
lives are always motivated by what is best for us, their loyal and de-
pendent members or customers. But in real life, which of us has not
responded to the news that something familiar is going to be replaced
with a new and better version with words like "Oh ... yes ... good ... but
not now, please, I've got a lot to do and the last thing I need right now
is to have to spend time learning how to use the new version ....".
I remember feeling that way when Microsoft Office changed its inter-
face quite radically in 2007. It was many months before I felt at home
with the new ribbon-style toolbar in Word. Now I'm told that Mi-
crosoft will end support for their tried, trusted and still widely used
Windows XP in April 2014. This does not mean that people need to up-
grade to Windows 7 or 8 before April, but it does mean that Microsoft
will stop developing "fixes" for XP security problems and that, in future
years, some new programs and accessories may not work with XP. So,
no immediate need to panic, but when you next plan to buy a new com-
puter, be prepared to learn to live with a new version of Windows.
Ironically, security will probably become less of an issue for XP as time
goes by because the virus writers tend not bother with the older sys-
tems!
And having mentioned security, please note that Microsoft have also
said that in April they will stop the regular updating of their free anti-
virus program Microsoft Security Essentials, so if you have that one,
best change to something else (Avast and AVG offer free versions of
their antivirus programs).
In former times, in the world of public transport, the cry "All change!" notified us that the bus or train was going no further. A passenger is said to have asked "Excuse me, is this Aldgate East?" and received the reply "No mate. All get out!".
24
VILLAGE & COMMUNITY AGENT REPORT
I am very aware that I haven’t visited all the parishes yet, but I am making progress and
making contact with as many people as I can. I am also learning fast what it is really like to
live in a rural community. I am seeing for the first time the challenges people face when
flooding occurs..the effect it has on people’s lives and their livelihood and how the country-
side can suddenly resemble a lake...what a difference from the picturesque view of the countryside
on a beautiful summer’s day! But what I have also seen is how communities pull together in these
difficult times and people rally round doing all they can to help and support each other, particularly
the elderly and vulnerable residents.
In light of the current flooding, the contact number for Tewkesbury Borough Council - Customer
Services Team is 01684 295010 (until 6pm). The out of hours emergency contact number is
01684 293445.
The In Touch Project (GRCC) held an Information Event for Memory Loss and Dementia at
Gloucester Cathedral on 29th January. It was a free event where different agencies provided lots
of interesting information about the help and support available for people with dementia. They are
holding a similar event in Tewkesbury on 20th March at the Watson Hall commencing at 10.15am for
registration. There will be representatives from various agencies including Managing Memory
2gether, Alzheimer’s Society, Carer’s Gloucestershire, Red Cross, Age UK, Telecare (Technology),
a solicitor to talk about the importance of Power of Attorney and a Consultant Psychiatrist. There
will be lots of opportunity to ask questions and talk to individual representatives. If you would like
to know more about Dementia or the help available...this is the place to be!
Carers Gloucestershire are supporting the setting up of local Carers Forums across the county to
give Carers, near to where they live, the opportunity to influence policy and services to improve
outcomes for all Carers and to meet local service / support organisations and groups. Tewkesbury
Borough Carers Forum are holding a ‘Market Place’ style event on Monday 31st March 2014 at Ab-
bey Fields Community Centre, Back Lane, Winchcombe, GL54 5QH from 11.30am to 1.30pm
(registration and refreshments from 11.00am). Again, there will be lots of agencies available to
give advice and information.
I visited a very friendly support group for people with macular disease last week and they are
currently looking for a new group leader. The Macular Society - Gloucester City group meets at the
Deaf Centre in Barnwood on the 1st Wednesday of each month. If you think you might like to take
on this role or just become a member, please contact Jane 01452 812435 or Gill 01531 820826 for
more information.
When you or a family member or friend needs care, planning what to do can be very stressful. You
will be faced with many decisions and may be unsure where to start or who to talk to, particularly
when it comes to sorting out how to pay for care for as long as it is needed. PayingForCare is a not-
for-profit company, helping those that are responsible for paying their own care costs. They pro-
vide a team of telephone advisers to help guide you and your family through each step of the care
journey. There is no charge for this service. They can be contacted on freephone number 0808
208 9994.
And finally..... Growing old is mandatory. Growing up is optional! (Chili Davis, California Angels ball-
player)
As always, If can be of any assistance I can be contacted on: 07534 064 169 or by e-mail at:
Ann Vaughan 13
EVENTS
Please come and join us for a
PUDDING EVENINGPUDDING EVENING
at
NATURE IN ART
Wallsworth Hall, Main A38, Twigworth
on Friday March 7th at 7.30pmon Friday March 7th at 7.30pm Doors open at 7pm to view the latest Wildlife Photographer of the Year
exhibition (fresh from its launch at the Natural History Museum in London).
Bring a pudding for 2 people and spend an evening trying other people’s puddings!
Tickets (£5) available from Nature in Art
or call Simon on 07774 803177
(If you cannot pay until the night, if you can, please tell us if you intend to come!)
ALL proceeds in aid of G.A.R.A.S.
Gloucestershire Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (GARAS) does fantastic and vital
work by offering support to those seeking asylum in Gloucestershire, welcoming them when they
arrive, advocating for them in their daily struggles, supporting them if they face being sent
back as well as helping them adjust to their long term future if they are recognised as refugees.
Everyone welcome!Everyone welcome!
Gloucestershire Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers
EQUINE TABLE TOP SALE
SATURDAY 22 March 3—5pm
Kendal Road Baptist Church, Longlevens.
Further information: 07845053118
14
CENTRAL MOBILE LIBRARY
Village Stop Name Time
Coombe Hill The Swan 14.55 — 16.55
Dates: 28 March.
EVENTS
WALK FOR WATER
Sunday 19th May 3pm Norton Village
The Walk for Water is back!
This will be the sixth ‘annual’ Walk for Water – a fund-
raising and awareness raising 4 mile walk for the Sa-
maritan’s Purse charity ‘TurnOnTheTap’ campaign (they
also do the Christmas Shoeboxes for children). They
provide access to clean drinking for those in developing
countries who do not have it, by maintaining boreholes
and providing water filters. You will remember 6 years
ago when we had no drinking water coming out of our
taps and, for some, a flooded home too. Well, for so
many around the world, it is a daily struggle to get any
water, clean or otherwise. So on Sunday 19th May,
come and join in the walk — up and over Sandhurst Hill,
down to the Red Lion pub and back through the water meadows to the A38 and the
village hall. More information from Debbie Bevan on 01452 730150.
NEW EDITOR FOR THE MAGAZINE
The new editor of the Seven Towers’ Benefice Magazine will
be Canon David Godwin. David’s first edition will be in May.
Contact David at: [email protected]
tel: TBA
23
Trevor Humphris
TJH Contracting Ltd
Established since 1982
Operated plant hire for:-
Flood Defence/Barriers
Ditches, Drains, Ponds. Demolition, Reclamation Foundations Concreting
Tree / Hedge cutting. Garden Clearance.
1.5 — 14 Tonne Excavators
1/4 — 12 Tonne Dumpers Loading Shovel, Tractors
Contact Trevor or Liz : Tel : 01452 730155
Mobile : 07836 758080 By Quote or on Day Work
www.tjhcontracting.co.uk
22
Wired Electrical
All aspects of electrical work covered, no job too small or too large
Fully insured and Part P registered - Over 10 years experience
24 hour call out
10% discount on presentation of this ad
Please contact Simon Berry
on 07534 925685
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.
Shiny Bright Cleaning Ltd
Experienced domestic cleaning service
Weekly cleans, Deep cleans, Spring cleans
Interior and exterior window cleaning
Solar Panel cleaning
Gutters cleared, fascias, & soffits cleaned
Moving in and out House Clean
A friendly local firm - Contact Jan 01452 731895 or 07894 058792
15
AROUND THE PARISHES — NORTON
Norton Village Hall
Saturday 22nd March 12:00pm—2:00 pm
In aid of St. Mary’s Church Funds for the provision of kitchen and toilet facilities.
Please contact Jean Smith (01452 739265) if you are able to help in any way.
Norton Village Hall
Saturday 8th March Doors open: 2:30pm
Admission: Adults: 50p Children: Free
Norton Village Hall
Friday 25 April 7pm
£5 per person, to include a Ploughman's Supper
Bring a complete team of 6 or join with others on the night.
Bring your own drink if desired.
Please book in advance to ensure adequate food.
Contact Sue Roberts 01242 680035 or Margaret Brind 01452 730744
[email protected] [email protected]
ALL PROCEEDS TO CHRISTIAN AID
Q u i z & S u p p e r
16
AROUND THE PARISHES — SANDHURST
Sandhurst Village Hall AGM Wednesday 30th April at 7.30pm
Meet the new committee members, say goodbye to those
who are leaving.
All are welcome
Our village hall is a vital asset to our village and the Committee
have been working very hard to maintain and modernise the
facility as well as provide interesting and fun events for the
community as a whole. To find out more about this community
facility, come along to the AGM.
From the Sandhurst Village Hall Committee
21
EVENTS
SEVEN TOWERS PILGRIMAGE
Come and join our annual pilgrimage, this year to Hereford.
Leaving Norton 9.30am and returning by 7.30pm. We would start our time in Hereford
with a short service of Holy Communion in the Lady Chapel, have a guided tour during the
afternoon and finish with Choral Evensong sung by the Cathedral Choir at 5.30pm. This
leaves free time for lunch, tea and exploring the city and riverside.
Cost approx £12, to be confirmed. Further details next month or from
Margaret Brind on 01452 730744. email [email protected]
HEREFORD
CATHEDRAL
Saturday 3rd May
20
EVENTS
The Leukaemia & Intensive Chemotherapy Fund
Registered charity number: 1078183
presents the wonderful
Churchdown Male Voice Choir
featuring Kate Bennett, soprano
7.30pm Friday 11 April 2014
PITTVILLE PUMP ROOM
In support of ‘Make a Difference Campaign’
unreserved seating £10 each, available from the LINC office
t: 0300 422 4422 e: www.lincfund.org w: www.lincfund.org
17
AROUND THE PARISHES — STAVERTON
PARISH COUNCIL
Staverton Parish Council will meet at 7:00pm on Wednesday 30th April
in the Gloucester Room of the Cheltenham Regency Hotel. All parish-
ioners are welcome.
Should anyone be interested in becoming a parish council-
lor, please contact the parish clerk—Mr P. E. Ounsworth on
01452 526495 or email: [email protected].
AROUND THE PARISHES — SANDHURST
This annual event will take place on
Saturday 29th March
starting from the church car park at
9:30am. Equipment will be provided and
everyone is welcome.
AROUND THE PARISHES — THE LEIGH
Saturday
1st March
10:00—12:00
at St. Catherine’s
18
AROUND THE PARISHES — DOWN HATHERLEY
19
EVENTS
St Matthew's
Church
Twigworth
7pm
The service this
year has been put
together by the
women of Egypt,
not just for women
but for everyone.