Out & About Dec 20 - Jan 21

December 2020 January 2021

s d r o f f O e h t n i

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Farriers Hands, 2020, Michael Murfin

Willow, Cut Branches, 2020

by Hilary Smart

Scaffolder, 2019 by Michael Murfin

Dandelions, 2019 by Hilary Smart 2

e l i f o r P r e d a Re

Michael Murfin and Hilary Smart

A Lifelong Passion Michael Murfin and Hilary Smart first met at Longsands Comprehensive School in St Neots - Hilary joined the Sixth Form there when Bushmead Secondary School closed. In terms of art, Michael was star pupil at the time and Hilary was Runner-up - under the tutelage of the legendary Dave Terry .

They both went to art college in different places and at different times : Hilary became a wallpaper and textile designer, and Michael a figurative painter. They have always gained inspiration from people and places in their immediate surroundings.

Fast forward to 1999 when, married by now, they moved to Offord Cluny - to a solid post-war former council house - rather like the one Michael was brought up in. “It gave us space to work at home and room to breathe while still being quite close to our respective families.”

Their sense of place is still important. Michael continues to create and sell his pictures some of you may remember his recent A14 exhibition at St Neots Museum, whilst Hilary, now retired, continues her artistic output through drawings based around her home and garden.

For some years Hilary put her fascination for post-war design into a variety of projects.

She presented illustrated talks entitled “Were You Sitting Comfortably?” to local groups such as the Women’s Institute; and she used retro imagery to decorate her handmade papier mache vessels sold through exhibitions and galleries.

Michael’s interest in nature goes back to his childhood, and has informed the images he has produced ever since - he can remember walking along the river path long before it became the tidy amenity it is today. Moving to Offord Cluny has rekindled one facet of this lifelong passion - namely the trapping, observation and recording of moth species.

Thanks to the encouragement of his former neighbour and Out & About contributor Gareth Rondel, the activity came as a revelation - opening up a hitherto unseen world of beauty, ingenuity, variety and constant surprise. As he admits, he could bore for England about it now. http://www.michaelmurfinartist.com/ https://hilarymurfin.com/

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Welcome

to the Winter edition of Out and About in the Offords

As we go to print we are still in lockdown but determined to deliver printed magazines to all the village. We will also continue to publish an online full colour version to reach an even wider audience. Thank you to all our contributors without whom there would be no magazine; to the advertisers whose investment ensures the viability of the publication; to the Parish Council who support the magazine financially; to Simon of Easiprint Ltd who collates, prints and cheerfully sorts us out; and to the volunteers who organise each edition and deliver door to door come rain or shine.

We are all unsure about the coming months, but you will see from the many articles here that Offord is a resilient village with much to be proud of. Please contact us via OffordOandA@gmail.com with your feedback and any ideas for future editions. Let us know if you can be the next reader to be profiled.

We hope that Christmas brings you peace and that the New Year brings hope.

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n o i t a i c o s s A s r e n e d r a G d r o f f O

December & January

Fellow Members As I am sure you are well aware, we are once again in lockdown. For a few weeks it looked as if we were moving towards perhaps hopefully being able to resume our meetings in the Village Hall in the new year. However this has now been put on hold as the hall has had to close again.

As a result, it has been decided to defer our AGM, usually held in November until we can hold an actual meeting hopefully at some time next year.

Jobs to do in December Check your greenhouse heater is working correctly Insulate outdoor taps and prevent ponds from freezing Prune apples and pears not wall mounted Prune Acers, birches and vines before Christmas to avoid bleeding Harvest Leeks, Parsnips, Winter Cabbage, Sprouts and remaining root crops Deciduous Trees and Shrubs can still be planed or transplanted Take Hardwood cuttings Keep mice away from stored produce Reduce watering of House plants Jobs to do in January Recycle the Christmas Tree Clean pots and greenhouse ready for spring Dig over vacant plots that have not been dug already Inspect stored tubers of Dahlia and Begonia for rot Prune Apple and Pear trees Start forcing Rhubarb Plan your vegetable crop rotations for coming year In inclement weather order seeds for next year Put out food and water for birds In the present situation we find ourselves in, our gardens have been a source of comfort and pleasure for us all and I am sure we have benefitted from all the extra effort we have been able to put in by staying at home.

Take Care , Stay Safe Enjoy your Gardening John 811148 6

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Thank you for all of your support over the last 6 months. Due to strict Government guidelines and the new "Rule of Six", we are currently unable to offer day trips..

Our vehicles are, however, Covid-secure and we are undertaking all precautions necessary to ensure a safe travelling environment. We are, therefore, able to offer our vehicles for private hire for households/families who wish to travel together. Social distancing is required on board, so our vehicles can only travel at half capacity at best. The price we quote will be for hire of the vehicle with a driver, not a cost-per-head price. We currently have a 17-seat luxury minibus, and a 47seat and a 53-seat executive coach, both with toilets all, available for hire.

With the winter season fast approaching, demand for day trips will be falling, and so we anticipate not being able to offer any day trips until next year. We do hope to be able to run our annual trip to the Pantomime - hopefully in early January depending on available seating in the theatre.

If you are interested in joining us at the Panto, or would like to join our mailing list to be notified of future trips please contact us by email at platinumtourslimited@gmail.com.

Once again, thank you for supporting a local business. It has been a very tough summer, but we are still here and ready to take you out when it is safe to do so. "

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OFFORD VILLAGE HALL HIRE Offord Village Hall is available for hire for all types of functions: Wedding Receptions, Christenings, Private parties etc.

The Hall has disabled access and facilities and comprises of: a large main hall with a stage, refurbished kitchen, bar, separate committee room and a car park.

The hall is licensed for music.

Daytime rates are priced per hour (minimum 2 hours) with reduced rates for regular users.

Weekend evening rates available on request.

For further details please contact

Helen Bosworth on 01480 811892 Email: droffo144@gmail.com 9

r e m r a F e h t Ask

With Local Farmer Stephen

What Does A Farmer Do in the Winter Some people think that Farmers only seem to work for 3 months of the year and that for the rest of the year they sit and twiddle their thumbs!!

Well, if you are a livestock farmer nothing could be further from the truth as their job is every day of the week, every day of the year. Animals need looking after, feeding and given fresh bedding every day and also have to be checked to ensure that they are healthy.

Arable farmers like me, who just grow crops such as wheat, barley and oilseed rape (the yellow stuff you see in the spring) spend the autumn months drilling, which is sowing the crops for the next harvest. This year, as indeed last year was, it has proved to be a real challenge to get the crops planted due to the wet weather.

Once the drilling is done we spend the winter months cleaning the machines we have used and repairing them, if needed. We also load the lorries which send away the crops that have been harvested to go to be processed. So, if you see some lorries in the village over the winter then they may be taking our grain to the mill.

We use this quieter period to make sure all our buildings are weatherproof and to tidy them up a bit so we are ready to go when we start getting busy again in the summer.

Another job we try to do in the winter is to cut to the bottom of ditches and dig some out to enable some water to get off the land. Also, hedges are cut back on a bi-annual basis to keep them under control and to encourage them to grow in the middle, which makes a good habitat for the birds to nest in.

We also spend time trying to protect crops from the birds and animals that want to eat them.

The busy period starts again in February when we start the job of feeding the crops with fertiliser and spraying them to protect them from diseases.

Hopefully at somewhere in all that we might try to have a holiday but that will unfortunately not happen this year!

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s n e z i t i C r o i n e Offord S As I write this, we have just begun the second lock down, this time for four weeks. By the time you read this, I wonder if the restrictions will have been lifted? December 10th should have been our Christmas Party night, another event put on hold, but whatever is necessary to stay safe and well, that is what we must all do. We will just look forward to catching up next year!!!

We wish all our members and friends a Very Happy Christmas and a Joyful and safe 2021.

Sue Barimore Secretary

Offord Village Hall 300+ Club

(Offord Recreation Hut)

Registered charity no. 302653

WINNERS SEPTEMBER £20 No. 108 £15 No. 111 £10 No. 181 £ 5 No. 011

Marlene Alderman Sam Nobles Sally Fry Lucy Balderstone

£ 20 £15 £ 10 £ 5

OCTOBER No. 245 Sharon Levy No. 093 Rose Sheffield No. 192 Malcolm Reece No. 138 Anthony Dear

The next GRAND DRAW will take place in December and the monthly draws will be taking place virtually until village clubs and events resume. There are still a few shares available if you would like to join.

Contact Helen Bosworth on 01480 811892 for further details

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Offord Tots Hi everyone, it’s Nikki here from Offord Tots. As we can't celebrate Christmas and make decorations this year, I thought I would give you our recipe for salt dough decorations!.

We normally make these decorations at Offord Tots to decorate your trees at home and the annual Offord Christmas Tree Festival. They would be perfect this year for gifting to family members, friends or even neighbours after this eventful year!

Recipe 1 cupful of plain flour (normally around 250g) 1/2 cupful of table salt 1/2 cupful of water Method 1. Heat your oven to the lowest setting and line a tray with greaseproof paper.

Remember you're not cooking the dough, you're drying it out.

2. Mix the salt and flour in a bowl. Add the water in parts until you have a ball shaped dough.

3. Transfer the dough onto the work surface and roll out the dough. Then cut out circles in the dough using a child's plastic bowl (depends on how large their hands are!)

4. Sprinkle the surface with flour before placing your dough circles down. Place your child's hand into the circle and press firmly down. However, don't be so firm that the dough is too thin underneath.

5. Place on baking tray with a sprinking of flour underneath. Bake for at least 3 hours until dry.

Once they've been dried out, paint using acrylic paint. Then using a sharpie, write the child's name and 2020 on the decoration!

You could use a base colour on the hands or create a Father Christmas like the photo!

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l l a H e g a l l i V Offord In October we were so pleased to have re-opened the Village Hall after having put in place all the measures to make the building COVID-19 secure. However, this was short lived, and we are once again temporarily closed following the second lockdown imposed by the Government. Hopefully, this will be shorter than the first and we will be able to open again soon.

The impact of not being able to meet, other than via Zoom, has made meetings difficult and so we have postponed November’s AGM until we are all able to get together again safely. This does not mean that all the work that trustees do to make sure the hall continues to be looked after is put on hold too. It has meant extra work for our Treasurer, Chairman, Caretaker and Bookings Secretary, trying to keep everything running smoothly in the background whilst maintaining the building. Communication has been key; thank goodness we live in a digital age.

During this time Alan Griffiths, our Vice-Chairman, has resigned after 30 years of involvement with improving and maintaining the Hall. I know that he will be missed by us all for his energy and dedication. Alan said he had other projects he wanted to pursue so he is not retiring completely yet! We wish him and his family all the best in their new endeavours.

Finally, this would have been the time of year when we would have been looking forward to all the fundraising events and Christmas celebrations taking place at our Village Hall. Last year we had a great community event with many of the organisations that use the hall entertaining us and providing a tasty supper. Even though this year these kinds of celebrations are on hold, on behalf of Offord Village Hall Management Committee, we wish you a Merry Christmas and hope for a happy, healthy New Year.

Helen Ellis - Secretary, Offord Village Hall

Jenny Murby as Mother Christmas, part of the entertainment for Christmas 2019 celebrations.

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OFFORD VILLAGE HALL Dear Villager As you will be aware, this year has been a difficult and frustrating time for all of us, made harder for the Village Hall by not being able to open for the benefit of our community.

The running costs continue but we have had little or no income from bookings.

Some of our valued trustees are retiring after giving many years of dedication and hard work. The biggest challenge for the Hall now will be finding new volunteers from the village who would be willing to take on the role of trustee. Unfortunately, without existing trustees or new trustees coming forward there could be a problem maintaining the running of Offord Village Hall.

It is now time to hand over to people who will bring up to date ideas and energy to the Village Hall to ensure it continues to provide this especially important community facility.

If you are interested in joining the Village Hall Management Committee, please contact the Secretary, Helen Ellis, on 01480 811974 for further details.

John Gatward Chairman Offord Village Hall

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Please support Godmanchester Food Bank so that they can support families in need at Christmas and throughout the year.

Demands on the foodbank continue to grow as more and more families are at risk of hunger.

As you buy your own groceries in Offord Budgens please donate food to the collection box by the door. They need supplies of: • Tinned vegetables - potatoes, sweetcorn, peas, and carrots • Tinned fruit • Tinned Rice Pudding • Custard - tinned or sachet • UHT Semi-skimmed milk • Christmas - slab cake, puddings 454gms, and biscuits You can also find out how to help through their website https://godmanchester.foodbank.org.uk

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Twas the week after half term, and all through the land, So many people were changing their plans, Trying to work out what they could still do, In a mish-mash of rules that take time to wade through, Thankful at least that the school would return, That their children could be with their friends and still learn.

Twas the week after half term and all through the land, The school staff were silently wringing their hands, Watching the briefing, the charts and projections, Fearful and worried with so few protections.

They think of their classrooms, the layout, the space, The distance, the closeness, the time face to face, And yet they’ll return and open the gate, With a cheerful “Hello” and a “Let’s not be late” They’ll put on their smiles and hold in their fears, They’ll comfort the frightened and talk out their tears.

Thank you for being the safe place, the learning, For standing there strong with the children returning.

For stories and spellings and phonics and play, For taking the fear of this moment away.

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t s u r T ty i r a h C s r o o P y n lu C d r o f f O The As the elderly residents of Offord Cluny are aware, December 21st - St. Thomas’s Day - is usually the annual pay out evening. Unfortunately, with the latest government restrictions, we are regrettably not in a position to hold the event this year.

However, we would like to take this opportunity of wishing everyone a Very Happy and Safe Christmas.

The Offord Poors Trustees 18

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Tel: 01480 812461 Mobile: 07708031493 19

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at e B e h t o t t e e F

The Offords Line Dance Group

Happily, our Tuesday morning weekly classes in the Village Hall were reinstated in late October but sadly only until Lockdown ‘2’ scuttled the scheme. It is proposed to make a further return once the ‘all clear’ has sounded on 2nd December, offering the opportunity for three more classes before Christmas.

The ever resourceful Izzy set out the necessary measures so as to conform to the latest Covid-19 regulations, enabling her to hold two one-hour sessions with a limited number of attendees, socially distanced and following all the rules. Red dots front and sides of the hall enabled all to be correctly spaced.

Both sessions were fully booked.

Izzy eased us back into the routines on the first session but after such a long break it was still a question of getting brain and body working in close formation. All was progressing well by week three, but then someone pulled the plug again. Such a shame as we were getting into the more complex and faster routines that taxed brains and feet.

During the Covid-19 restrictions, Offord Village Hall is the only venue that Izzy feels comfortable with, thus enabling her to hold her classes there, so consequently people from her other usual venues have been attending our Tuesday morning dance sessions.

It was encouraging to see so many of our dance friends again after nearly seven months of cancelled classes and everyone had the same enthusiasm for a return to some sort of normality.

We are all hopeful that Lockdown ‘2’ will last for only four weeks and we can make the most of what remains of a truly scary and challenging 2020.

Jenny Griffiths - on behalf of Izzy Brogan Tel: 07709 344144 23

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e t u t i t s n I s n e m Offord Wo The President and the Elves of the Offords WI wish everyone in our villages a Happy Christmas and a Healthy New Year.

Merry Christmas

We sincerely hope that our normal meetings will resume next year and we will be able to welcome back Members old and new.

For further information call Carol Temple on 01480 812879

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CHRISTMAS ALL ALONE 2020 I’ve crafted one large cracker, made one small Christmas pud., I’ve frozen down a brace of quail so Christmas can be good.

I’ll listen to ‘Kings’ Carols’, join prayers that will be said, I’ll hang my lonely stocking up and fill it before bed.

I’ll keep my central heating high; I’ll eat my dinner late, I’ll keep my slippers on all day; the washing up can wait.

I’ll watch The Queen’s Speech from my bed, my head upon a pillow, Then settle down for old repeats, Dad’s Army and Portillo.

I have some mini bottles, Bucks Fizz and Pink Champagne, I have a chocolate orange that’s sure to ease the pain.

I’ve bought a tin of Old Oak Ham, a tin of best red salmon, The food I’m going to miss the most on Boxing Day – is gammon.

My loved ones I can Facetime or possibly we’ll Zoom, Technology’s amazing – they’re almost in the room.

But I can keep my leggings on as nobody will know, I’ll have to comb my hair of course ‘cos that will be on show.

I may just take a local stroll, perchance I’ll meet a friend, Or see kids on new scooters – for them the fun won’t end.

I’ll save up all my Christmas cards to read them on the day, And I shall think of others who live so far away.

When Boxing Day is over, I’ll really be delighted, And drift along until New Year To see if I’ve been ‘knighted’.

Let’s hope that 2021 will be a better year, When we can live in harmony and free of Covid fear.

Yes, Christmas will be different - I’ll be alone this year, That way I’m safe from Covid - the family free from fear.

I won’t complain – it’s one short day; It’s not a lot to ask, And even though I might feel sad, I WILL NOT NEED A MASK! Marion Warden The Offords W.I. 27

h c t a W d o o h Neighbour

The Offords - Winter 2020

I know I’ve mentioned scams before but this year the number of incidents has increased and people are still being taken in, so I make no apologies for raising it again.

These criminals use many different ways to try and relieve you of your hard earned cash: the email scammers are becoming very clever at impersonating legitimate companies, so be very careful, be wary of clicking on any links and don’t respond with any details unless you are absolutely sure it is from someone you know.

– I’ve had a number of fake invoices through the post. Some are quite obvious, like the one from Cambridge Water when we are with Anglian. Some can be very threatening. Always check with the company not by ringing the number on the letter.

Check the number through a source you’re sure of.

I know the Government and telephone companies keep trying to stop these scammers but they still manage to get through. Never give your details over the phone and never respond to a text from anyone you don’t know.

– we have had many cases of this in the village, where someone calls to offer to do some work that may or may not need doing and then charges an excessive amount of money for it.

Always check their credentials and check with the company, if you’re not sure ask them to leave. buy anything from anyone cold calling at the door.

Use a chain and, better still, There are a number of online resources informing you how to avoid being a victim. If you’re not online ask a neighbour or relative to help. Try some of these links: https://www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/residents/community-protection/against-scamspartnership https://www.cambs.police.uk/A-Z/Scams https://www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/residents/community-protection/scams To report an emergency or ongoing incident, call 999.

To report suspicious activity in your neighbourhood, call 101 To report information anonymously, call crime-stoppers on 0800-555111.

To report incidents via email, send to huntscops@cambs.pnn.police.uk To pass information regarding rural burglaries email: burglarycrackdown@cambs.pnn.police.uk Something to think about, being an active member or being on a road within a Neighbourhood Watch area can save you money on your home insurance.

Our meetings are on hold for the time being. Hopefully we will be back next year.

You can contact me on 811839 or at offordswatch@gmail.com if you want to join the team or would like more information.

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Stay safe, Peter Riley

Thursday Club At the time of writing we are in lockdown again. Let’s hope, if everyone keeps to the rules we, will finally control the Coronavirus.

There is also encouraging news of a vaccine. Maybe we will soon be leading normal lives again. Our goal is to safely reopen Thursday Club and enjoy the camaraderie once more.

From Thursday Club may we wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year.

Dear Thursday Club and friends, Thank you for collecting ÂŁ200 for The Woodlands, Hinchingbrooke Hospital, to celebrate my 90th birthday.

It was a lovely surprise. Pauline Cason.

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D.K.TILL & Son in Law COAL AND SOLID FUEL MERCHANTS Family run business for 40 years Coal, Logs, Charcoal, Gas, Compost TEL: 01223 232947 David Till 07523 044521 Kevin Crisp Email: dktill@hotmail.co.uk

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Phone: 01480 810594 Mobile: 07889 154994 Email: cmdecorating@aol.com www.painteranddecoratorhuntingdon.co.uk 31

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Fitness Classes at

Offord Village Hall Every Monday Fit4Life exercise class for active seniors at 10am Pilates at 7.30pm For more information contact me, Janine RSA/YMCA qualified Fitness Instructor 01480 810370 / 07790 655637 janineskyrme@btinternet.com 33

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Last year I visited your village and came to the Christmas Tree Festival in the Village Hall to find out what you would like for Christmas. I also came round the village in the dark to chat to you and your families and check what you were wishing for. I know that lots of good children live in the Offords.

This year rules mean I can’t visit you before Christmas. But do not worry. I have a special arrangement with all the governments in the world that means that I can fly to your houses with my reindeer and sleigh full of presents on Christmas Eve. Please make sure you write to me and tell me what you are hoping for. Remember that sometimes I have better ideas than you so you may get a surprise!

My elves are watching you. Be kind to everyone.

Lots of love from Father Christmas

A very important message from Father Christmas – For all the Children in Offord

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All Saints Church Dear Friends, Those of us who are of a certain age may remember a satirical television programme called TW3 (That Was The Week That Was). For most of us 2020 has certainly been That Was The Year That Was, and we will be pleased to see the end of a year that has been uniquely difficult for many. Of course, 1st January 2021 will not suddenly mean an end to the Covid-19 pandemic with all its medical, social and economic consequences. However, the start of a new year does bring a sense of hope and the possibility of new beginnings.

Before the new year, of course, we have Christmas. Normally in this issue we would be excitedly looking forward to all the Christmas services and celebrations; the Band Concert, Christmas Tree Festival, Father Christmas and so on. For obvious reasons we are unable to run any of these events this year.

However, the main purpose of Christmas has not changed. The heart of Christmas remains the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, and the hope that his birth can give to us all. The angel speaking to the shepherds put it very well when he said that he brought ‘good news and great joy’ as he announced Jesus’ birth.

We are, therefore, pleased that we are able to run many of our Christmas services, although sadly some, including our children’s Christingle services, will have to be online on our new All Saints Offord YouTube channel. However, lockdown restrictions permitting, we are hoping that our services late on Christmas Eve and on Christmas morning can run as usual. Please do check out the times and details of all our Christmas services on notice boards around the village, as well as in this magazine.

It may be that, for some, the events of this year, when so much of our apparently secure and civilised existence has been challenged, may encourage us to consider more closely the true meaning of Christmas; namely that Jesus came to bring, through his birth, his life, his death and his resurrection, the opportunity for peace and reconciliation for each of us, a gift our world sorely needs.

We therefore hope that many of you will join us, either in person or online, and that this will be a particularly blessed Christmas for you all.

Best wishes, Jes Rev Jes Salt, Priest in Charge, Buckden and the Offords 39

All Saints Church Services – subject to national or local restrictions When services cannot be held in the Church, Jes will post online services that you can find on the All Saints Offord YouTube channel. Changes will be notified via the village notice boards, website and Facebook.

December 2020 Sunday 6th Carol Joy 9.30 Sunday 13th 6pm Songs of Praise Sunday 20th Offord Virtual Carol Service Online only - YouTube from 9.30am Christmas Eve Christingle Service Online only - YouTube from 9.30am Holy Communion 9.30pm Christmas Day 9.00am Holy Communion for Christmas Sunday 27th 9.30am Morning prayer January 2021 Sunday 3rd 9.30am Family Service Sunday 10th 6pm Songs of Praise Sunday 17th 9.30am Holy Communion Sunday 24th 6pm Songs of Praise with Holy Communion Sunday 31st 9.30 Morning prayer All Saints Church – Fund Raising and Social Events planned for December 2020 have all had to be cancelled. There should have been: •

A Christmas tree festival with trees in the Church and a Christmas Market in the Village Hall.

•

A Christmas Band Concert led by Cottenham Brass Band - always a packed out fun event and will be sorely missed.

•

And Carol Singing around the village with Father Christmas

Let’s hope for brighter times in 2021. In optimistic mode we have booked venues for a normal pattern of activities starting on February 6th!!!!! Fingers crossed……………..

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All Saints Church – Planned Fund Raising and Social Events 2021 We hope to provide enjoyable events for all the village, whilst raising the funds that are needed to keep the church going in Offord.

Bacon Butty & Coffee Morning Saturday 6th February 10am - 12noon in the Village Hall Bacon Butty & Coffee Morning Saturday 6th March 10am - 12noon in the Village Hall Prosecco & Puddings (Cheese and Wine Event) Friday 19th March 7.30pm in the Village Hall Bacon Butty & Coffee Morning Easter Saturday 3rd April 10am - 12noon in the Village Hall Plant Sale Saturday 8th May 9am – 1pm (or until sold out!) at the Village Hall Bacon Butty & Coffee Morning Saturday 5th June 10am - 12noon in the Village Hall Summer Fete Saturday 26th June 1pm – 4pm Bacon Butty & Coffee Morning Saturday 3rd July 10am - 12noon in the Village Hall Bacon Butty & Coffee Morning Saturday 7th August 10am - 12noon in the Village Hall Bacon Butty & Coffee Morning Saturday 11th September 10am - 12noon in the Village Hall Bacon Butty & Coffee Morning Saturday 2nd October 10am - 12noon in the Village Hall Bacon Butty & Coffee Morning Saturday 6th November 10am - 12noon in the Village Hall Christmas Tree Festival and Craft Stalls Saturday and Sunday 27th & 28th November in All Saints Church and the Village Hall from 12noon – 4pm Christmas Band Concert Friday 3rd December 8pm in All Saints Church Carol Singing Round the Offords Friday 10th & Sunday 12th December Church roof update Since the last edition of Out & About, there have been two developments. First, the temporary roof covering (which is now two years old) has been strengthened to enable it to last a little longer while we work on getting a permanent replacement. And then, an application has been made to the Diocese for formal permission (known as a “faculty”) for the new roof. Some of you may have seen the notices around the village advertising this. We hope to have the faculty early in the New Year and that will enable us to approach grant-making bodies for funding.

More news next time! - John Simpkin (Churchwarden) 41

All Saints Church Offord Cluny - Contact Details

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h c r u h C d e m r o f e St Neots United R As with all churches we are currently closed. After lockdown, if the church is permitted to open for short services they will be at the usual time of 11 am but with reduced capacity for social distancing and no singing. Please contact the Church Secretary to check booking details and dates, as well as up to date availability.

Currently there will be no refreshments available after the service. Face masks must be worn.

There is a brief weekly service on our website below.

During the lock down, churches together in St Neots are providing services on Black Cat Radio from 9.30 to 10 am each Sunday. So far our Minister, Dr Rick Mearkle, has conducted the service along with the other St Neots church leaders taking turns to conduct the service.

Come and visit the United Reformed Church which is on the High Street in St Neots.

The only access without steps is at the rear of the building near to Argos . Parking is available in Tebbutts Road behind the Church.

For all Church matters please contact the Church Secretary, Jenny Gibbs , for further information on 07789 240332 .

Web Site www.stneotsurc.co.uk/services

h c r u h C t s i d o th e Buckden M Minister: Stewards:

Rev. Sue Baker-Maher. Tel 473444.

Angie Barnes (810102) Bob Baxter (810092) Carol Swepstone (810053) 43

h c r u h C s r te e P t S f o The Friends Just as we announced in the previous edition that St Peter’s was open to visitors, at the time of writing and in response to the Covid-19 national lockdown between 5th November and 2nd December 2020, all Churches Conservation Trust churches are closed to the public for general visiting. Whenever the rules change again, 2nd December or later, we will follow the guidance of the CCT in allowing visitors into our church.

This does mean that the popular and well supported annual Carols by Candlelight Service won’t be going ahead this year.

However, we are pleased to report that the one event which took place at the church in 2020 was the customary wreath laying to commemorate the Armistice Anniversary on 11th November. Originally planned to follow all previous years’ format, this year it took place outside the building with a very small group of people standing socially distanced in front of the War Memorial window and the wreath being placed under the window. The Act of Remembrance was no less moving and Ian Weitzel, Parish Council Chairman, read out the list of 25 men from Cluny and Darcy who died in both World Wars. At this time, we especially remember Harold Victor Collins and Frank Charles Currington both of Offord Darcy, who died for their country in WW1 and who are buried in St Peter’s churchyard.

As reported in the last edition, the CCT have now compiled an audio guide to many of their churches, and we are pleased to say there is one for St Peter’s, which is comprehensive and informative. To access the guide please go to the CCT website, as follows: https://www.visitchurches.org.uk/visit/churchlisting/st-peter-offord-darcy.html 2021 As the coronavirus is still very much in existence, at the moment we can’t say for certain if Claude Bourbon’s concert will take place on Saturday 17th July. Currently, we have no other events planned for 2021 as like all organisations, local and national, we wait for positive news on when events can start up again.

Once the church is open again for visitors, the key can be obtained from Deborah Gillbanks, of The Limes, who is the official CCT keyholder for St Peter’s. Of course, social distancing must still be maintained when visiting the church and 44

face coverings must be worn inside the building, as detailed by the government. Full information will be on the church noticeboard.

At the end of this difficult and challenging year for everyone, the Friends Group would like to thank all our supporters and convey good wishes to all in our community for a happy and healthy 2021.

Jenny Griffiths Friends of St Peter’s Church 01480 811126

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t r o p e R l i c n u o C h Paris

September 2020

As I write this we are now into our second lockdown. The situation with COVID-19 continues to change our daily lives and guidance from central government is altered to reflect this. Councillors again stand ready to assist in any way they can. If you need help, please get in touch.

The community Facebook page is an important tool in keeping people talking and sharing information and updates are posted regularly on the website, as well as all the usual Council bits and pieces. You can sign up to the newsletter via the site and be notified as soon as something changes.

We are very much open for business as usual, so if you have any concerns or worries about anything please get in touch. Councillors and I are happy to help if we can and there are volunteers within the parish willing to be of assistance.

Parish Council meetings continue to be held remotely via the Zoom platform. The Agendas go onto the noticeboards and website in the usual way and there is a link on the Agenda to allow you to sit in or take part in a meeting. We are all getting much better at these meetings and remembering proper procedure during them, which is just as well as the law that was changed to hold Council meetings remotely until the end of the year has now been extended to May 2021.

The Recreation Ground and Millennium Green remain open for daily exercise. At the start of the current lockdown there was some confusion surrounding government guidance re cleaning of the equipment, so the play areas were closed. After further investigation and consultation with other authorities it was decided to reopen. The guidance notices on the equipment are for everyone’s safety so please remember the current social distancing and handwashing recommendations and no food or drink is to be consumed anywhere near the equipment.

At the moment, councillors are looking ahead to next year’s budgets. There are some great plans for new and additional equipment, new safety surfacing, new footpaths, and noticeboards. These projects are currently being costed and grants, where possible, applied for. We are lucky to have such lovely open spaces and often receive compliments about the Millennium Green. Council wants to make sure all age groups are catered for. Suggestions are always welcome.

We have a lot of tree work planned for this autumn. Larger projects are carried out by contractors, but we do try to do the smaller jobs ourselves either by Barney or by Councillors . The aim is to keep the Offords looking smart and that appears to be happening.

The new Little Libraries have proved a huge success. These were the idea of Councillor Caroline Savage who continues to monitor their use. If you have any books, all genres for all ages required, please contact her. Her details, and those of all other Councillors are at the end of this report.

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Little Libraries help to foster neighbourhood book exchanges and can be found in many countries around the world. Three new Little Libraries in colourful blue and red have now been placed around The Offords. Anyone can take a book to read or leave one for someone else to pick up! These Little Libraries are for everyone to enjoy, adults and children, and are much needed with cut-backs to local library services.

So please share something that you have enjoyed reading recently!

The Little Libraries can be found at the following locations: • On corner of Park Way and High Street, Offord Cluny •

Alongside Parish Noticeboard, Offord Darcy near access road to St Peters Church

•

Gravely Road, by cut through to Bramley Drive, Offord Darcy

If you intend to visit a Little Library, please wash your hands before you go and wash them again when you return home.

We do have one allotment available at the moment. It’s a small plot at the top of the allotments and presents some challenges because of overhanging trees etc (which are being looked at currently). If anyone is interested, please get in touch.

Your Parish Council is keen to ensure that all its residents are safe and supported during this time. We would encourage everyone to offer help to those who are self-isolating, especially the over 70s. A friendly call, help with shopping or collecting prescriptions and more may be welcomed, observing current advice such as social distancing and hand washing as you go.

The Parish Council set up the helpline because it is concerned about the wellbeing of all residents during these challenging times. Our primary focus is for those people who have few close friends and family available to help them and / or have limited access to the internet. Although we rarely get requests for assistance now, we are still here and waiting to help.

Call your Parish Council helpline, 07597 988763. It’s open 7am to 7pm. Outside these hours, please leave a message.

• Email: clerk@offords-pc.gov.uk In the same way please use these trusted communication routes to request help with: •

Shopping

•

Prescription collection

•

Any other questions, problems or concerns Some of the best sources of COVID-19 guidance are available on the Public Health England, Department of Health and Social Care, and NHS England websites.

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Chairman’s Report In the midst of Covid-19s privations, the Parish Council has continued to hold its monthly meetings, albeit remotely, and to serve the community as best it can. There have also been a number of external issues that have arisen over the past months that have required a response from us.

Foremost of these is the Government White Paper on Planning Reform, sponsored by Robert Jenrick (Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government). It is claimed that these reforms will speed up the planning process and enable developers to meet the Government’s target of 300,000 new homes annually. There are those who think that the Government’s power to overturn local planning decisions is already too great – the development in Luck’s Lane, Buckden, being one such. Despite the application being refused by both Buckden Parish Council and Hunts District Council, they were overruled by the Government Planning Inspectorate and those houses are now in the process of being built, with little thought given to the impact of traffic in Buckden High Street or the demands upon the Primary School and the Doctor’s surgery.

The Paper proposes splitting the country into three zones – Growth which is deemed “suitable for substantial development”, Renewal areas are “suitable for development” and Protected are (rather confusingly) not protected at all but would “justify more stringent controls to ensure sustainability”. Without any indication being given as to the extent and breakdown of these categories, one cannot be too dogmatic, but many respondents have expressed concerns regarding this approach. It would also seem to override much of the work done on the Local Plan produced by Huntingdonshire District Council. That document categorised the Offords as a “Small Settlement” which meant that only modest infill development would be permitted within the Parish. Should the proposals within the White Paper go through Parliament there is no certainty that this situation would continue. The Parish Council posted a response on the White Paper Consultation website, outlining our concerns. Copies are available for those interested.

Another longstanding issue within the Offords is the obstacle to east-west travel presented by the level crossing in Station Lane. A plan presented by Network Rail in 2014 to build a bridge over the railway to the north of Offord Cluny foundered due to a shortfall in their budget. Since then we have had to suffer ever-increasing intervals of crossing closure as rail travel increased in popularity. Now with Network Rail’s plans to increase rail traffic by as much as 40% with the incorporation of a digital signalling system, we face the prospect of closure times being extended to the point where road journeys would become unviable. Matters were brought to a head recently when it was reported that, as part of its strategy to get the economy moving in the post-Covid period, the Government had given the East Coast Mainline £350m specifically to upgrade the signalling system. Having voiced our concerns to our contacts within the industry, a remote meeting was organised between ourselves and Network Rail. And it was actually quite encouraging to find that we were included in their plans. The bridge is now back on the drawing board, although funding is still an issue. Failing that the plan is to install radar-operated gates that will require a shorter time between the gates closing and the passage of the trains, hopefully by sufficient to negate the effect of their increased frequency. Somewhat surprisingly they are also planning to keep Gill’s Crossing, rather 49

than close it outright, which many were anticipating would be the intent. Consideration is being given to upgrade the system of lights currently in use, maybe with audible warnings and lockable gates in addition. That will come as a relief to the many Offord residents who regularly use the crossing to connect with the footpaths on the other side.

We will continue to monitor the project as it unfolds over the next two or three years.

Yet another concern that has manifested itself recently is the proposal by NATS (National Air Traffic Services) to re-route the air traffic approaching Luton Airport. At present aeroplanes from both Stansted and Luton share a “stack” where they circulate whilst awaiting clearance to land. This is obviously not an ideal situation with regard to air safety, so NATS have proposed separate stacks for each airport. And as you have probably guessed, one of them (the stack for Luton) is planned to be positioned right above the Offords! And so we gird our loins for yet another exercise in quango “consultation”. Looking at the information materials supplied on the website it would seem unlikely that we will be able to mount a credible defence against the plan. As well as “the Greater Good” argument, NATS state that the bottom of the stack will be at 8,000 feet.

To quote Government policy on aircraft noise : This Government guidance for airspace changes can be generally summarised as: •

The minimising of noise impacts up to 7,000ft is the greatest priority

•

In the airspace above 7,000ft the minimising of noise is no longer a priority, and airspace efficiency is promoted.

Which would not seem to indicate a great probability of success in opposing this. For those wishing to find out more about this proposal I would suggest Googling : “Swanwick Airspace Improvement Programme - Airspace Deployment 6” As with all these proposals, feedback, help, advice from any quarter is most welcome.

You can contact me directly at ian.weitzel@btconnect.com.

Ian Weitzel December 2020

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Parish Councillors 2018-2022 Ian Weitzel(Chairman) Ronaldsway, Littleworth End Offord Darcy 01480 811697 Ian.weitzel@btconnect.com

Stephen Eayrs Top Farm Offord Cluny 01480 811816 stepheneayrs@btinternet.com

John Gatward (Vice Chairman) 5 Elm Drive Offord Cluny 01480 811148 rgatward@btinternet.com

Simon Young (Chair of Planning) 6 Pippin Close Offord Darcy 01480 812877 simonjyoung@outlook.com

Tina Dawson (Chair of Finance) 15 Park Way Offord Cluny 01480 819471 Tinac_13@hotmail.com

Caroline Savage The Grove, 71 High Street Offord Darcy 07966 144956 caolsysa24@icloud.com

Peter Riley 33 Park Way Offord Cluny 01480 811839 Pete.riley@outlook.com

David Gillbanks The Limes, High Street Offord Darcy 01480 812183 gillbanks@gillbanks.com

Jackie Stanbridge Clerk to the Council Clerk@offords-pc.gov.uk 07597 988763

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t r o p e R r o ll i c n u o C County

By Peter Downes

The Covid crisis continues to dominate our lives and by the time you read this we should be approaching the end of the national lockdown 2. The situation is evolving all the time. Between starting and finishing this article, the news broke of a possible vaccine becoming available soon. Let us hope so and look forward to a return to normality.

The only useful thing I can do is to keep you factually up-to-date with what the County Council is doing. It met in full in October and the next meeting will be on December 15th At the October meeting, the Council passed three motions which can be summarised as follows: a. That the Chief Executive write to the Secretary of State for Education, G. Williamson, asking him to look again at the funding for children with Special Needs and Disability (SEND), drawing attention to the serious under-funding of this part of the education service. The problems faced in Cambridgeshire are replicated across the country. As the former Head of Hinchingbrooke School, I campaign as strongly as I can for the correct funding for schools. Under-providing for those with disabilities is not merely inhumane, it is also unwise financially since appropriate support earlier in life can reduce costs later on. b.

That more attention needs to be paid to the delay in highways improvement schemes by the inability of utility providers to notify CCC of their cabling. Matter to be carried forward by the Highways and Transport Committee.

c.

Concern about evidence indicating that police are more severe in using stop and search powers in relation to black persons. The motion reaffirmed that the CCC policy is to welcome and acknowledge the value immigrants bring to the economy of our area, including in the technical and biomedical sectors around Cambridge and to the agricultural sector in the north of the county. The Chief Executive will approach faith, non-faith and community leaders and other bodies representing communities of people who might be suffering discrimination to offer reassurance and support. She will also work with Cambridge City and South Cambs to enable them to extend their current refugee settlement scheme.

The Council’s forward budget planning will be beginning soon. This is always a complex and detailed matter but will be even worse this year, given that costs have risen unexpectedly, demand for services is increasing and council income has dropped.

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Council officers are continuing to work hard to provide the services people need. All the scheduled committee meetings are continuing via Zoom. This extract from a recent officer report exemplifies the action being taken in relation to the pandemic (written before the announcement of the November lockdown): ‘’We are continuing our work with communities - as it is people’s day to day behaviour which is key - and we are working closely with all our partners. We have • Issued a release and worked with local radio and TV to highlight the help available from the Countywide, district and City hubs for all vulnerable people – including low income families who may face difficulties feeding their children.

•

Continued to work closely with our District Council and NHS partners and with Public Health England to prevent and manage outbreaks in schools, care homes, workplaces and vulnerable population groups across the County.

•

Promoted films which highlight the work of parish councils in fighting the effects of Coronavirus.

•

Sent a letter to all local employers asking them to consider if more of their employees can work from home, and reminding them of Covid security measures in the workplace.

•

Continued to work on plans to launch our own enhanced contact tracing pilot in partnership with our district and city council colleagues, and also made a bid for a national asymptomatic testing pilot.

•

Continued to share translations of messages in a range of different languages to explain how the test and trace app works are now being shared on our social media channels.

•

Supported enforcement activity taken by local police by sharing reports across all of our social media channels.’’

Looking further ahead, work is still proceeding on building a new County Council HQ at Alconbury Weald. This is 3 months behind schedule but is expected to be operational from September 2021. This will be a more modern and economical building to run than the current Shire Hall in Cambridge. The Shire Hall site will be let out and it is hoped that this will raise substantial revenue for the County. However, as the new HQ will be located well towards the western edge of the council area, there will be an increase in travel costs and time for most staff and councillors.

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Many schools have experienced Covid cases and in some cases classes have been excluded for the quarantine period. I know that Heads and teachers are taking their ‘health and well-being’ responsibility very seriously and that, once again, there are substantial extra costs. The overall attendance rate in Cambridgeshire is about 90%.

The routine work of the County Council and of the parish council has continued thanks to Zoom meetings and e-mailing. I think we all look forward to meeting in person again.

The other major concern is how to pay for the expenditure on tackling the Covid crisis.

We do not yet know what measures the Chancellor will take but it is clear that changes to the tax system and to local taxation is inevitable. Millions extra have been spent and money will need to be found from somewhere. drops through your letter-box, the situation may have By the time evolved further but I would like to close by expressing my sympathy to any who have been bereaved, ill or lonely during these last few difficult months and anybody who has lost theirjob.

I hope that it will be possible for us all to enjoy Christmas, difficult though that might be for some. And may 2021 be better than 2020 – it could hardly be worse!

Peter Downes 01480 509471 or 07765 833 486 peterdownes42@aol.co.uk

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The Huntingdonshire Society for the Blind can recycle your used postage stamps, and has a representative living in Offord Cluny.

Please drop them in at 127 High Street or phone 811892 for collection.

Just cut or tear off envelope leaving some paper around the stamp.

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s r o ll i c n u o C t c i tr s i News from your D At time of writing there is optimistic news about possible coronavirus vaccines in the not too distant future. The second lockdown has been a devastating blow for residents and businesses in Huntingdonshire, given all the work that has gone into helping our local economy recover from the first lockdown and the way the vast majority of residents pulled together to keep local infection rates low.

As before, the District Council continue to operate as many services as possible in lockdown, alongside delivering direct support to residents, businesses and community groups as and when they need it. Hopefully, by the time you receive this hospitality venues, non-essential shops and venues like HDCs “One Leisure” will be opening again. Some tolerance may be required as HDC endeavours to support local recovery and offer normal services. Life is not normal for HDC staff and it’s not easy for them. I believe they are doing an amazing job considering all.

As to the HDC budget- at time of writing I am not privileged to the details of the impact on the budget. We are led to believe the situation is not as dire as for Cambridgeshire County Council, however the reality is there will be difficult decisions about cuts to services very soon. Money provided from central government has not covered the expenses incurred in supporting residents and businesses through this pandemic.

If you or anybody you know requires any support or information during this tough time, please visit HDC’s dedicated Covid advice portal: www.wearehuntingdonshire.org And we encourage you to support HDCs “Think Local” campaign to help local businesses get back on their feet.

As always, if you have any local issues you need help and advice with don’t hesitate to contact us.

HDC Cllrs Sarah Wilson, Sarah Conboy and Mike Grice 07903 015613

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K Fit Pilates is coming to Offord!

With a focus on stretch, strength, mobility and control, Pilates exercises can help you ease back ache, improve posture and strengthen the core muscles in a gentle and calm environment. K Fit has been established in St Neots for over 8 years and is very excited to reach the Offord community.

Class Details: Wednesday mornings at Offord Village Hall 11am-12pm These classes will be held as 6 week courses through term times, Course price: ÂŁ45 These classes will be held with a maximum of 12 participants to ensure there is enough floor space and good quality teaching. Prior booking is essential; please get in contact to reserve your space.

Katrina Hyland Head of K Fit 07967100603 Kdanceandfitness@gmail.com www.kdanceandfitness.co.uk

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Tel: 01480 273927

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Advertise in

Out & About THE OFFORDS GAZETTE

Please note our advertising charges. This magazine is issued every two months and the cost per issue is:

Full page - ÂŁ15.00 Half page - ÂŁ 8.00 For further information or to place orders for advertising please phone Sue Dorrington on 07724 553101 Or email sue _dorrington@hotmail.co.uk 60

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s d r o f f O e h T n i g n i d i Girlgu

Unfortunately none of our units have been able to meet face to face since the first lockdown in March and it looks as though restrictions will be in place for some time to come.

Our main concern, as always, is the health & well-being of the girls and their carers, and we will work hard in the coming months to ensure that our meeting places are Covid-ready ahead of hopefully relaunching all of our units next Spring.

I would like to thank all the Leaders for their continued commitment to Girlguiding throughout this difficult time and look forward to a time when we can all meet in person to plan our new world in Guiding.

Looking forwards to relaunching our units, we have some gaps in our leadership team – if you would like to consider helping to run any of our units, we would be glad to have your support. There are many volunteer roles within Girlguiding that cater for those who want to have direct contact with the girls, to those who prefer to be a behind the scenes helper. Please see the Girlguiding website for information on how you could get involved, https://www.girlguiding.org.uk/getinvolved/become-a-volunteer/, or drop me an email.

Food Bank News Offord Guides would like to thank residents of the Offords for their continued support for the Godmanchester Food Bank. Donations made through Budgens since it opened are 337 kg, and donations made to other sites in the villages are around 641 kg. This is a wonderful amount of foodstuffs and other goods that are being used to support local families in need. Thank you all.

Remembrance Day Guide Leader Julie and her family have yet again done us proud with the wonderful display to remember the fallen and to recognise the work of NHS workers. Please take a moment to look.

Storage space needed I would like to make a plea on behalf of Offord Guides – we are in need of a storage space for our camping equipment from April 2021. At the moment we share a lock-up garage with Gt Paxton & Offords Cubs, but the garage is not going to be available for us next year. If you have, or know of some dry, secure storage that we could use for our tents, etc, please get in touch.

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The Offord Leaders will be keeping in touch with our current members of all our units by Facebook, text or email, and will let you know any developments. If you have any queries about Rainbows, Brownies or Guides in the Offords please do not hesitate to email me.

In Guiding Ann Weitzel Offord Guiding

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Do you have a few hours to spare?

Do you hold a clean driving licence?

THE HIGHWAYMAN COMMUNITY CAR SCHEME needs drivers To help provide transport for people that are unable to use conventional public transport or to make essential journeys by any other means.

As a volunteer driver you use your own car and receive a mileage allowance.

Additional insurance cover is provided.

How it works: The coordinator phones around to see if any drivers are free for calls that have come in. Calls are booked in advance normally allowing at least 3 to 5 days’ notice for the coordinator to locate a driver.

You are under no obligation to take the drive that you are phoned about, whatever you take on assist people in your community to get to where they need to be without any unnecessary worry.

If you can help us provide this valuable service to local people or require further information please call Jacky on 07786 520540 Highwayman Community Car Scheme supported and advised by Cambridgeshire County Council and Care Network Cambridgeshire

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Village Groups & Organisations Applepips Out of School Club Archery Bowls Club Brownies Church Events Church Rooms hire Community Police Cubs/Beavers District Councillor District Councillor District Councillor Friends of St Peter’s Guides Neighbourhood Watch Offord Cluny & Offord Darcy Parish Council Parish Clerk Offord Gardeners’ Assn Offord Sch, Headteacher Chair of Governors Offord PTA Offord Pre-School Offord Tots PCSO Rainbows Senior Citizens The Offord PlayerS Thursday Club Village Hall hire Village Hall 300+ Club Women’s Guild Women’s Institute

Joanne Corbishley Marc Bax Carolyn Bargh Ann Weitzel John Storey Bob Bargh Denise Heath c/o St Neots Police Stn Andy Ottley

01480 811977 381172 810237 811697 810763 810237 810008 & 07956 570592 456111 0345 456 4564 07704 857636 info@paxtonscouts.org.uk Sarah Conboy 414900 Mike Grice 383213 Sarah Wilson 412747 Liz Howes 812899 Ann Weitzel 811697 juliehillsjohnson@gmail.com 01480 812549 Peter Riley 811839 Ian Weitzel Jackie Stanbridge Janet Bedingfield Kate Ruddock Liz Simpkin Claire Faux Joanne Corbishley Nikki Mitchell Richard Braddick Ann Weitzel Marlene Alderman John Kirby Doreen Rowbury Helen Bosworth Helen Bosworth Talvia Gatward Carol Temple

811697 07597 988763 810091 810308 07976 792463 810308 01480 811977 07872 986326 07921 094801 811697 810609 810049 811025 811892 811892 811148 812879

Whilst every effort is made to ensure information in this publication is accurate, we cannot be held responsible for any errors.

The views expressed in this publication may not necessarily reflect those of the Editor.

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Directory of Advertisers Page 9 32 61 46 55 33 70 31 30 65 72 67 16 24 19 33 19 34 59 5 57 60 70 46 63 24 8 66 18 25 55 7 71 58 5

A1 CHIMNEY SWEEP & MAINTENANCE 07508 051920 ABSOLUTE PLUMBING 01480 812549 ANDYS WINDOWS 07711 939994 APPLEPIPS OUT OF SCHOOL CLUB 01480 811977 BEAUTY ROOM 01480 812803 BUCKDEN DAY NURSERY 01480 810816 BUDGENS CM DECORATING 01480 810594 DK TILL COAL MERCHANTS 01223 232947 FLAIR UNISEX SALON 01480 810417 GRAVELEY GARAGE & MOTORCYCLES 01480 830462 & 831058 GREENSLEEVES 01767 651639 GURRY & SONS SEASONED FIREWOOD 07734 159501 HILTON DAY NURSERY 01480 830351 HOME-N-DRY 01487 840310 & 07766 576381 JANINE’S PILATES 01480 810370 JEZ ASHCROFT LTD 07708 031493 & 01480 812461 JODI FINCH & SON ELECTRICAL 07771 613848 & 01480 731599 JOHN SINCLAIR ELECTRICIAN 01480 273927 & 07815 903467 JUNE LEE PODIATRIST 01480 214392 & 07947 371107 K-FIT PILATES 07967 100603 KINGFISHER FUNERAL DIRECTORS 01480 471001 MORE SPACE 01480 830130 OFFORD PRE SCHOOL 01480 811977 OFFORD TOTS nikkirenning@hotmail.com PAXTON HILL GARAGE 01480 217806 PLATINUM TOURS 01480 810560 PRO LAWN CARE 01480 812393 ROBORIS VA 07961 425744 SCHOOLS OUT 01480 811180 THE EATONS HOME & GARDENS 01480 406130 THE HORSESHOE INN, OFFORD DARCY 01480 810293 VISITING ANGELS 01480 751731 W&H PEACOCK AUCTIONEERS 01480 474550 YASIR WINDOW CLEANING 07447 496376

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• Bakery • Hot Food • Milkshake Machine • Lottery in Offord • Cash Machine - free to use • Costa Machine Tel: 01480 819602 • Quality Produce • Fresh brands such as Grasmere Sausages & Pies

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