Out & About October - November 2023

October - November 2023 1

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Welcome Welcome to this edition of Out and About, the Offord Village Magazine.

It aims to promote the community by sharing village news and useful contacts. Out & About is delivered to all homes in the village.

We encourage new contributors with a story to tell. Articles are accepted from organisations and individuals so long as they are not political or offensive. We welcome photographs, news stories and poems from villagers. It should be noted, however, that some articles may represent the opinions of the writer and not represent the opinions or views of the editors. Reader submissions are published in good faith with the intention of creating an inclusive publication. We may need to defer entries if we receive too many at once.

Contributions are included free of charge. You can contact the editorial team via offordOandA@gmail.com Most of the cost of production is covered by the revenue from advertising and we are grateful to our loyal advertisers. Production costs are also supplemented by an annually reviewed grant from the Parish Council.

Out and About is delivered free of charge because a willing team of volunteers brave the elements come rain or shine to bring it to your door. We hope you find something to interest you in this edition.

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OFFORD VILLAGE HALL 300+ CLUB (OFFORD RECREATION HUT) Registered charity no. 302653

JULY £125 £ 60 £ 30 £ 20 £ 15 £ 10

WINNERS AUGUST No. 329 Gill Apthorpe No. 156 Marion Meeks No. 061 Fred Rance No. 243 David Gillbanks No. 246 Sharon Levy No. 099 John Thomas

£ 20 £ 15 £ 10 £ 5

No. 184 Colin Frusher No. 331 Christine Courton No. 237 Bonny Fountain No. 185 Alan Hudson

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

Contact Helen Bosworth on 01480 811892 or Jenny Murby 01480 811474 for further details.

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t c e j o r P d r a y h c r u h C s t n i a S All Progress on the wildlife Garden has had a few issues over the last couple years but currently, once again it’s the rabbits.

Who was it who introduced the rabbit to this country? Some say it was the Romans others say the Normans but whoever it was it wasn’t a good plan.

The European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) is a species native to the Iberian Peninsula (Spain, Portugal and Andorra), also Western France and the Atlas Mountains. Rabbits were also widely introduced in many other places, often with devastating effects on local biodiversity. The female rabbit can produce one litter of between three and seven offspring every month in the breeding season. Natural predators are stoats, buzzards, pole cats and red foxes. Apart from the fox (who can’t be bothered), there are no local predators. It’s been pointed out that dogs on leads cannot chase rabbits so now they are unafraid.

The agricultural industry is very aware that rabbits damage cereal crops and grassland.

Over many years of reports, investigations, facts and figures the indication is that a decline in the rabbit population is accompanied by an increase in agricultural productivity.

Currently the damage in the Church burial ground is significant. Anyone visiting a loved one’s grave must be very careful to avoid the rabbit warrens and scrapes. Some are large, some are small but nonetheless enough to strain an ankle or knee.

On a positive note many plants and shrubs Recent rabbit damage to a grave. around the wild life garden are doing well albeit now moving into autumn. During the summer the colours were attracting bees and butterflies. Once again as the Ivy comes into flower the miner bees emerged from their subterranean home.

On Saturday 15th July we took part in The Big Butterfly Count. This is a national citizen science data collection project launched by the Butterfly 6

Conservation Trust. The data they receive helps to alert conservationists of any noticeable declines in the population of different Butterfly and Moth species. They can then take the necessary steps to improve habitats and food sources. This was the third year we have submitted our results and we were hopeful to see an improvement on our Gatekeeper Butterfly previous counts. Within a 15-minute timeframe we saw the following: Large White Butterfly – 6 Small White Butterfly – 2 Gatekeeper Butterfly – 1 Small Tortoiseshell Butterfly – 1 Red Admiral Butterfly – 3 Common Blue Butterfly – 1 We were pleased to have increased on the number of species from 4 species last year up to 6 species this year. The reason for this was probably due to a greater variety of food sources for both the caterpillars, butterflies and moths available in the churchyard. We made an effort to plant the types of beneficial plants to feed the caterpillars and provide nectar for moths and butterflies.

Another amazing sighting within the churchyard was an alien looking caterpillar feeding on a bramble leaf. It had a dark grey body with tufts of long pale hairs on red warts with four brush like tufts of yellow hairs on its back.

Intrigued by what this little fellow was destined to transform into, I discovered he was the caterpillar of a Vapourer Moth. The Male moth has an orangebrown pattern with a white spot on each wing. Its antennae resemble feathers. The nearly wingless female has a plump grey-brown body. It feeds on sallow, beech, oak, sloe, Bilberry, Blackberry and other deciduous trees.

Vapourer Moth caterpillar Vapourer Moth (Male)

By Alan Griffiths and Fiona Fitzhugh 7

Thursday Club Hello everyone It was with great sadness that we heard of the passing of Sheila Reece, a founder member, secretary and treasurer of the club, as well as a generous friend to all.

Thursday Club is a friendly, weekly and non-subscription social club from 12.00pm to 2.00pm, with people of all ages paying £1 per session for light refreshments, puzzles, crafts and friendly conversation, with occasional lunches in the village hall or nearby venues. We also organise occasional excursions.

If you would like further information, please contact Doreen Rowbury 811025 or Gill Apthorpe 812866, or come along to a session and meet us all.

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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

October - November

We are pleased to report we had a successful Summer Show, held in August, with 22 people entering 130 exhibits. New members entered as well as seasoned exhibitors, which made for a competitive show. As usual our thanks to all who entered and to everyone who worked hard to make the event successful. Having reviewed comments from visiting public and members we will look at an improved schedule for next year’s show.

The October meeting is on Flowers and Wildlife of the Scottish Highlands starting at 7:30pm on the 19th October in the village hall. Members Competition is Autumn Colour.

Our November meeting is our AGM, followed by Holly Wreath making, which gives members an opportunity to make a holly wreath with the Speaker demonstrating how to do it as you go along. This is all happening on the 16th November at 7:30pm in the village hall. Members Competition - A Christmas Decoration.

As we move towards winter we are thankful the hot humid weather has abated, as it did no good for the plants or gardeners either. Now that we can get outside in more comfortable climate, we start to tidy up our gardens for winter, reviewing our aims and successes for next year.

We welcome new members to our meetings and also are able to offer advice on members’ gardening queries.

Enjoy Your Gardening, John Chairman OGA 01480 811148 11

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CONTACT US FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTE 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 For further details (including availability, hiring process and rates) please visit our website www.offordvillagehall.org.uk or contact our Bookings Secretary Helen Bosworth on 01480 811892 or email bookings@offordvillagehall.org.uk 15

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b u l C s n e z i t i C r o i n e S d r o f f O In July we usually hold our Annual Garden Party in one of our member’s garden, but this year we made to decision to cancel as a few days before one of our valued members, Sheila Reece, sadly passed away. Sheila was a great asset to the club, always willing to help, and we all miss her very much.

At our August Harvest meeting members enjoyed an excellent ploughman’s supper followed by lemon meringue pie. Afterwards we held our harvest auction with a wide variety of produce and food items contributed by members and which raised over £100 for club. We were also very pleased to welcome three new members.

Our meetings are held on the fourth Thursday of the month in the Village Hall, Offord Cluny at 6.30pm. If you would like to come along and join us, you would be made very welcome. For further information please call Marlene Alderman on 01480 810609 or Sue Barimore on 01480 810763 Many Thanks Sue Barimore

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We were delighted to have achieved both Hallmark 2 & 3, awarded as a standard of excellence by Cambridgeshire ACRE. We are only the 4th hall in the area to have achieved all 3. Thanks go to everyone on the Management Committee for their hard work.

To quote our Chair, Kathy ‘Hallmark is a challenging but rewarding process. It has provided us with insights into the way we can better manage our hall and a benchmark against which we can judge our progress. It has also given us a sense of achievement and confidence that we are going in the right direction.’

It is the season for awards and at our last meeting in August, Kathy presented John Kirby with a ‘Highly Commended’ certificate in the Trustee category for the Hunts Forum Awards 2023. We nominated John to recognise how much his hard work and going the extra mile is appreciated by all the members of the Management Committee. We all thought he should have been the overall winner!

There are of course always areas for improvement. A new Business Plan has been produced in draft form and will be finalised to be endorsed in November. We are focusing on improving the entrance area and toilets and on other ways to save energy with their soaring costs at this present time. All our lights are LED, and many are on sensors, so they automatically switch off when not required. Although our windows are 18

double glazed, and the loft is insulated, there is need to improve our gas and electric consumption. We ask you to help us by making sure that if your group is using the hall the doors and windows are not open wide when the heating is on. Also, if you should turn the temperature up for any reason, please remember to turn it back.

We are investigating more efficient ways of saving energy which includes a larger project. It is proposed to install 16 solar panels on the roof of the hall and a suitable number of storage batteries in the roof space, and in addition to this to triple glaze the main hall windows. This would of course be a costly outlay and will need to be grant funded. Watch this space.

We are going to develop the outside green space areas. This project will be led by our trustee Steve Iddon in conjunction with the Offord Gardeners Association. He would like to make it more colourful and useable for everyone. Steve has accepted the role of ‘Trustee of the Green Spaces.’

The Village Hall hosted the 5th annual Beer Festival in September. Thanks to Sarah and her husband for organising another successful day and all the volunteers who helped setting up, clearing away, and serving the drinks.

Where else can you experience the taste of ale from a very local brewery at Buckden and listen to live music from talented Offord artists and their friends for a night out all within walking distance.

There are more fund-raising events to look forward to: Family Halloween Film Night Saturday October 28th ‘Monster House’ (PG) 6pm Doors open 5:30pm. Tickets Adults £6 Children £4 Family (of 4) £18 www.ticketsource.co.uk Halloween themed goodies will be available for sale.

Saturday December 16th ‘A Christmas Celebration’ A fun night out which includes celebrity John Osborne, writer, theatre maker and Radio 4 regular.

He will amuse us with his storytelling, ‘We Work on Christmas Day.’ There will also be a quiz, raffle, games, singing and other Christmas festivities.

Licenced bar. Christmas nibbles and mulled wine will be included in the ticket price of £12. www.ticketsource.co.uk

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‘Film Noir’ Friday November 17th at 7:30pm Tickets £6.

Saturday 16 March 2024 Murder Mystery evening. Strictly Murder present ‘A Question of Tort.’

Come along to see the UK Grand Final of ‘A Question of Tort.’ The winners of this prestigious competition go on to represent the UK at the World finals, being held this year in Dubai. Each team has been through an exhaustive process to reach the final and it promises to be an intriguing night of general knowledge quizzing. But foul play is afoot … the teams are absolutely ruthless. It isn’t going to end well …Licenced bar. Tickets include supper.

All events are subject to change. You can find more details of all the above events with ticket prices and how to get them by visiting our website www.offordvillagehall.org.uk.

Helen Ellis Secretary Offord Village Hall

Offord Village Hall BOOKING SECRETARY REQUIRED Offord Village Hall offers a wide range of community activities and events as well as being available to hire for private events. The modern and versatile hall provides a real community hub, and it is managed by a group of committed trustees with a wide range of skills and experience.

Following the retirement of the existing post holder, the trustees of Offord Village Hall are seeking to appoint a new Booking Secretary. This is a voluntary position, and we would very much welcome interest from residents in our local community, who have the necessary experience, skills and time to devote to this role. The Village Hall has just acquired Hallmaster (an online booking programme) and is in the process of updating the details for future bookings.

If you are interested in finding out more about what is involved in the role or in joining the committee, either as a full or co-opted Trustee, and wish to support the development of our fantastic Village Hall, please contact me either by phone or email for further information about this role.

Helen Ellis Secretary Offord Village Hall secretary@offordvillagehall.org.uk 01480 811974 20

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All Saints Church News A message from Fr David Good folk of the Offords, I would like to say something, here, about joy. About how the Christian faith is founded on joy.

In Luke's gospel we have a song full of joy, of rejoicing. It is a song that is one of solidarity, and one that should make the powerful question their privilege.

A song that can give such hope to any in need of help, and mercy. It is a song that gives Christians the challenge of sharing with others the joy of faith in God. Mary's song is at the heart of the Christian faith, to sing it is 'to dance to music of God's heart', as I've recently read one priest succinctly write. Luke's words show how Mary, now pregnant with Jesus, responds to her cousin Elizabeth. Elizabeth greets her with the words 'Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And why has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me? For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leapt for joy.'

This is Mary’s wonderful response: ‘My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour, for he has looked with favour on the lowliness of his servant.

Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name.

His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation.

He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.

He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty.

He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants for ever.’ (Luke 1:46-55) 24

This meeting of two pregnant women, Mary with Jesus and Elizabeth with John (John would be known as John the Baptist), is so wonderful and important that we repeat it daily, in evening prayer.

The church also repeats, daily, the words that John's father Zechariah said, when he finally understood, accepted, and indeed rejoiced in, the true and Holy reasons for his son's conception and birth. Both texts are referred to as canticles and Zechariah's is called the Benedictus and is said in Morning Prayer. Mary's song, the canticle named the Magnificat, comes in Evening Prayer ( https://www.churchofengland.org/prayer-and-worship/join-usservice-daily-prayer ).

Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit as he said extraordinary words of understanding (Luke 1:68-79) including this moving verse: 'And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways' and ends with the understanding that this son of his and Elizabeth's will guide us in the way of peace. Along with the church through the ages, John is the infant recipient of the poignant and lovingly proud, joyful in his way, words of his father.

Both canticles, all in the first chapter of Luke’s gospel, are sustaining and fulfilling to read, to sing indeed, and to wonder and ponder upon. For centuries, not least through the offices of morning and evening prayer, the words have been reflected and meditated upon in daily and sustaining faith. Both texts contain an understanding of how when we accept joy we also accept the weight of loss. An understanding that to live fully and go deep into love for one another there is also personal sacrifice and an understanding that the vulnerability of the human condition; to love can also entail heart-rending sadness in loss. The richness of Mary's song today as every day inspires Christian worship of her son, Jesus Christ. Mary's understanding - my soul magnifies the Lord - is full of joy, and so the Christian faith begins with joy.

I hope and pray that your lives are joyful this autumn.

With love, Fr David Sheppard Parish Priest of Buckden with the Offords https://allsaintsoffordcluny.wordpress.com/ 07792128503 (day off: Friday) 25

ALL SAINTS SERVICES OCTOBER & NOVEMBER 2023 1st October 8th October

11am Harvest Festival – followed by lunch in the village hall 9.30am Holy Communion

15th October

6.00pm Songs of Praise - followed by refreshments

22rd October

9.30am Holy Communion

29th October

9.30am Morning Prayer

5th November

9.30am Family Service for All Saints Day 6.00pm All Souls Service A reflective service to remember loved ones who have died and to support the bereaved 12th November 10:50am Remembrance Service Wreath laying at Offord Cluny War Memorial before hand 19th November 6.00pm Songs of Praise – followed by refreshments 26th November 9:30am Holy Communion In addition there are occasional combined services for the whole Benefice at either St Mary’s Buckden, All Saints Church or St Peters Details of all services at St Mary’s can be found via this shortened URL https://www.shorturl.at/DSUV6

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Fund raising and social events are planned through to the end of 2023.

The BBQ was a great success although we had to relocate to the village hall this year. With great support from the village £450 was raised for All Saints.

All Fund raising activities have a dual purpose. The first and most important is Christian fellowship and the second is the need to meet running costs whilst saving money to pay for a new roof and restoration. We have a long way to go but events like this are very encouraging.

The Harvest lunch is a free event provided by the church, though donations towards the cost of the ploughman’s lunch are invited. All are welcome after the Harvest Festival in All Saints Church at 11am on Sunday 1st October.

Please contact Sue Dorrington (07724 553101) if you’d like to attend so enough food is provided!

Events calendar 2023

All events in the Village Hall unless noted otherwise

October

Harvest Lunch 12 noon - 2pm Bacon Butties 10am - 12 Bacon Butties & Hot Dogs 10am – 12 Bingo Details in October O&A Christmas Tree Festival 12 noon - 4pm Band Concert in the Church 8pm (Tickets in advance)

1st 14th November 4th 17th 25th & 26th December 1st

For information about ticketed events please see list of fundraising contacts above.

All Saints Church does not receive financial help from the Diocese, the Church of England or any other body. As we struggle to raise funds to replace the roof we also have to raise money to heat and maintain the building and pay our share of running costs. We are not too proud to beg but we prefer to raise money through events that all villagers may enjoy. Thank you to those of you who also give using the website ‘Give a little’. You can find a link to this on the All Saints Offord pages on ‘A church near you’.

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If you are able to help us with our fundraising but cannot be actively involved….

We have a QR code you can scan if you are reading Out & About in the paper version.

The site offers you a choice of donation amounts £1 / £3 / £5 or an option to name your amount.

If you feel you can ‘give a little’ to All Saints it will bring us a step nearer to a new roof and will help keep the church running for worship and for when you or your family and friends need it. Church is for everyone. It’s not a private members club.

Thank you.

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Priest in Charge: Fr. David Sheppard fr.davidowainsheppard@gmail.com Mobile: 07792 128503 Church Warden John Simpkin 01480 819664 warden.offord@yahoo.com Mobile: 07904 617973 Church Warden & Webmaster Sue Dorrington offordallsaints@gmail.com Mobile: 07724 553101 Fundraising & social events: Stephen Eayrs stepheneayrs@btinternet.com Bob Bargh barghrobert921@gmail.com Helen Northrop helen.northrop1@btinternet.com Mandy Eayrs mandyeayrs@btinternet.com Elizabeth Simpkin lizsimpkin@msn.com

Facebook Page: https://m.facebook.com/AllSaintsOfford A Church Near You: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/13931/ 29

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Operation Christmas Child Shoe Box Appeal, 2023.

Buckden Community will be taking part in the above appeal and shoe boxes will be collected on 13th, 17th and 20th November 2 – 4:30pm at Buckden Methodist Church. Operation Christmas Child is a worthwhile charity making a difference at Christmas, by giving shoe boxes containing small gifts to children in poor countries. Gift filled shoeboxes demonstrate God’s love in a tangible way and for many children are their first gift ever.

PLEASE NOTE SWEETS AND TOOTHPASTE CANNOT BE PUT INTO SHOEBOXES THIS YEAR DUE TO INCREASING CUSTOMS REGULATIONS. Gift suggestions: Toiletries: Toothbrush, hairbrush, comb, hair clips, bar of soap, flannel, etc. No Bottles or liquid items Educational Supplies: Felt pens, pens, pencils, pencil sharpener, eraser, colouring book, notepad, picture or puzzle book, chalk, pencil case, stickers, solar calculators, etc.

Toys: Cuddly toy with CE LABEL please, doll, toy truck, skipping rope, yo-yo, ball, small puzzle, etc.

Other items: Hat, scarf, gloves, sunglasses, hair accessories, wind up torch, jewellery set.

Are you able to knit a puppet, hat, scarf, gloves, soft toy for a Christmas shoebox please? Thank you. Patterns are available. Or perhaps make a bag, pencil case or puppet using your sewing skills.

Of course, you may like to do your own shoebox, and this would be very welcome, as well.

Donations of money always welcome for transportation as it costs £5 to transport each box. Thank you.

If you would like more information, contact Carol Swepstone 810053 Thank you.

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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 - £18.00 Half page - £ 10.00 For further information or to place orders for advertising please phone Sue Dorrington on 07724 553101 Or email sue _dorrington@hotmail.co.uk 34

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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Lee Valley Regional Park The Huntingdonshire Local Group of the Wildlife Trust invites you to come along to listen to Eamonn Lawlor, who will provide an illustrated talk on the wildlife and management of Lee Valley. This will be held on Wednesday 8th November at 7.30pm at Brampton Memorial Hall.

Eamonn joined the Wildlife Trust as Senior Reserves Officer for West Cambridgeshire in 2022, having previously spent several years as a ranger at London’s ‘green lung’ – Lee Valley Regional Park. The park was formally consitituted in 1967 after many years of planning and Eamonn will enlighten us on the development and success of this area for wildlife.

Everyone is most welcome to attend. Booking is not necessary. The charge is £3.50 and payment is by cash or card. We meet at Brampton Memorial Hall, Thrapston Road, Brampton, PE28 4TB. For more information please contact George (01480 450809 or georgecottam@virginmedia.com)

Part of the Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire. Registered Charity No: 1000412

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An Introduction to British Ants The Huntingdonshire Local Group of the Wildlife Trust is pleased to welcome Brian Eversham, the Chief Executive of Beds, Cambs and Northants Wildlife Trust. Brian’s topic will be An Introduction to Ants and the talk will be held on Wednesday 13th December at 7.30pm at Brampton Memorial Hall.

Brian will introduce us to the habitats and behaviour of ants, explaining that they have some of the most complex and elaborate behaviour of all insects. We will discover their social structure, their complex interactions with other animals and plants, plus their foraging and defensive tactics. Ants are the most accessible and easily identifiable of the social insects, with only about 50 species, a handful of which can be found in our gardens. Brian says that this is a group that anyone can get to know and careful observations can add to our understanding.

Everyone is most welcome to attend. Booking is not necessary. The charge is £3.50 and payment is by cash or card. We meet at Brampton Memorial Hall, Thrapston Road, Brampton, PE28 4TB. For more information please contact George (01480 450809 or georgecottam@virginmedia.com)

Part of the Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire. Registered Charity No: 1000412

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y t i r e V d n a d Farmers E Hi everyone!

Well, that summer period seems to have passed by in a flash! And how different could one year be, compared to the last. This year was a challenge to find a series of hot and dry days to make our hay, and we have managed to cut our silage more than once due to the continued warm and wet weather.

Additionally, the grass is still green and growing – a really great start to the autumn and winter period ahead, as the animals are able to continue happily grazing out in the fields.

The lambs born in the previous spring have now all been weaned and are continuing to thrive, but the calves will remain with their dams for several more months yet. It is this time of year in which the breeding cycle starts again. The bull went back out with the cows a couple of months ago, and will stay in for approximately three months, before being moved to a smaller group of cows for over the winter period. Similarly with the sheep, the rams are now out with the ewes in differing groups depending on their age or breed.

Before the rams entered the groups, we had our vasectomised rams (teasers) in for two weeks – this is part of the ‘ram effect’ and is a natural way of causing the ewes to cycle in a synchronised pattern. The result is that the ewes will come into season together, can therefore be mated by the rams over a few days, resulting in a shorter lambing period next spring. This is currently taking place – so we look forward to seeing how well it has worked this year.

In the background, the usual tasks are taking place – preparing the sheds for the winter period when some of the cattle will need to be housed, and creating the lambing space once more. The never ending cycle continues.

Talk again soon, Farmers Ed & Verity 40

h c r u h C s r te e P t S f o The Friends After a quiet cool summer September was a busy month accompanied by unexpected high temperatures and sunshine of an ‘Indian Summer’, when we experienced over 26C in the church by mid-morning of all our events and services. Again, we should remind ourselves of this when Carols by Candlelight Service in December could get as low as 4C in the church.

The All Age Family Service on the first Sunday in September was well attended with additional congregation who were visiting family in the Offords and the welcome music of Angel Voices from Buckden. The collection monies for services held in St Peter’s are split between All Saints Church and the Churches Conservation Trust, two deserving beneficiaries.

The Friends Group welcomed the Offords WI for a tour of St Peter’s. They were very appreciative of the time and effort that we had put in to ensure they could find out more about the history, monuments and architecture of the building.

As usual we participated in the National Heritage Open Days and opened the church on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th September. All first time visitors are fascinated by what is inside this beautiful building and always say ‘I wish I had come before as I didn’t realise how much there is to see’. Those who had been before found new items to look at and, as always, appreciated the ambience in St Peter’s. There was a steady stream of visitors on both days and we especially welcomed from Leicester a relative of Walter Fensome (killed in WW1) who supports the Friends Group whenever possible.

We had extended our normal display items to include further research and photos of the Offords 1913/1914 Football team, the 1907/1908 Football team (winners of the Hunts Junior Cup) and the 1921 team. Information and photos of the installation of the stained glass War Memorial window in 1920 and its restoration in 2012 was also on display. Many other village histories, books and photos were on display so there was a wide range of items of interest to suit all visitors.

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The Friends Group would like to thank all those who came into the church over the Heritage Open Days weekend and braved the extreme heat or torrential downpour to support our efforts.

Diary dates Sunday 22 October 12 to 4pm

Autumn Craft Fair

We are looking forward to this popular, busy and successful long-standing event, which is well liked by both stall holders and visitors. The 2022 Craft Fair was extremely successful despite the biblical sized rainstorm at the beginning of the morning so we have fingers crossed that it can’t happen this year.

We welcome back previous stalls but again have several new stallholders who have heard what a lovely, friendly event this is held in such a beautiful building. This Craft Fair promotes local handmade crafts with some very talented crafters, so a great way to buy those unique one-off gifts for birthday or Christmas presents.

As usual, there will be the hot soups and rolls, together with delicious homemade cakes for sale, all made by the Friends Group. Free entry and free parking on the adjacent archery field.

Full page publicity poster within this edition.

Saturday 11 November 10.45am

Armistice Wreath Laying

This is our customary wreath laying ceremony at 11am on the 11th November when the Friends, together with the Parish Council, lay a poppy wreath on the Offord D’Arcy War Memorial, the fine stained glass window and brass plaques in the church. We remember those from Offord D’Arcy who died during the two World Wars and especially we 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.

All are welcome to come to this short act of remembrance.

Sunday 3 December 4pm

Carols by Candlelight Service

Oh yes, Christmas is approaching, so it’s time to put this date in your diary for this service of lessons and carols telling the Christmas story, a fitting start to the festive season. Plans for this highly popular, if somewhat chilly, service are getting organised.

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This service is suitable for all ages and features popular carols led by a choir who volunteer for this occasion interspersed with traditional Christmas bible readings. The Friends decorate the church and organise the lighting of around 150 tea lights and candles. A truly wonderful and atmospheric occasion for the start of the festive season.

There is now a bench in the churchyard installed by the Parish Council and already it is appreciated by visitors who wish to sit and take in the view of the church and other features. The Friends are working with the Parish Council on a plan to improve the churchyard with increased biodiversity while at the same time maintaining a clear access to and around the church, the war graves and the bench.

As an ongoing reminder, we highlight that for security reasons the church is kept locked. However, a key to St Peter’s can be obtained from The Limes and therefore the interior of the church can always be accessed. Our website has the facility to make contact with the Friends Group by completing the contact page, if you wish to visit the church. We can show you round and tell you the interesting stories about our monuments. https://stpetersofforddarcy.co.uk Please remember to sign the visitor book whenever you visit, sited on a table in the middle of the church, as visitor numbers are important.

All donations to the Churches Conservation Trust for the upkeep and maintenance of this beautiful building can be made into the wall safe, which is sited adjacent to the main door, along with a display of CCT visitor leaflets.

There is also a donation pot on the table next to the visitor book.

The driveway to the church is privately owned, with limited vehicular access.

Visitors to the church should leave their cars at the road end of the drive.

There is space for two Blue Badge Holders close to the church gates.

Jenny Griffiths Friends of St Peter’s Church 07776 426103 Jennygriffiths908@btinternet.com

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Charity Bingo Following our previously, very successful, Charity Bingo earlier this year for the Godmanchester Food Bank, we are looking forward to hosting another community evening on Friday November 17th 2023 in the Offord Village Hall, this time in aid of our Parish Church, and especially the All Saint's Church Roof Fund.

We would love to see you on November 17th from 7pm for a 7.30pm SHARP start.

We play 8 cards (a line and a full house) plus a 'flyer' - we also have a wonderful raffle and a book prize.

A real community event suitable for all ages (children who 'know' their numbers are very welcome) plus we provide half time light refreshments.

We look forward to seeing you, but if you are busy or unavailable on that date, please feel free to donate to All Saint's or the roof fund using the QR code shown elsewhere in this magazine.

Thank you so much, we would love to see you - daubers or felt tips at the ready.

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e t u t i t s n I s n e m Offord Wo Farming Life Anyone who has travelled the length of The Offords will have seen a grazing of sheep or cattle in the fields near to St Peter’s church. It is a Springtime delight to see the calves and lambs with their mothers and a reminder that we share a lovely rural environment with these creatures.

The July meeting of the WI offered a deeper insight into the process of raising farm animals and a demonstration of all the love, respect and planning that goes into it. We were delighted to welcome our speaker, Farmer Verity, who with husband Ed, farms ’our’ field and several others in nearby villages.

It was a fascinating talk and made us feel very drawn into the life of a farming family. Verity is also a vet, so it is heartening to think that these animals, so local to us, enjoy a wonderful, mostly outdoor life. Some are so loved they stay with the family as treasured pets.

Farmers Ed and Verity are regular contributors to this magazine and we were very pleased to hear more of the inside story ‘from the horse’s mouth’ so to speak! Thank you, Verity, and we look forward to seeing the results of all your dedicated work in the coming months.

Becoming an Author Our September meeting was a most interesting talk by a local published author, Julie Stock. Julie described her journey from dreams of writing to seeing the published item. There was a collection of her books for sale on the night. These are mainly romantic fiction and are available on Amazon. I think many of us had thought ‘Perhaps I could do that?’ They say everyone has one book in them. But our competition on the night was to write the first line of a book. I think that exercise alone showed us it’s not that easy! Writing a book is a much more involved process than just being able to write.

The WI meets on the second Tuesday of each month in the Offords Village Hall at 7.30. Just turn up as a visitor to spend an evening with us, enjoy interesting talks and meet new people. New Members welcome.

Future Meetings: October 10th, 2023 ‘Cake and Biscuit Icing’ Speaker - Jen Spooner from Nanny Spoon’s Cakery Come and learn some top tips for icing cupcakes and biscuits like a professional. Get to try out your skills.

November 14, 2023 Shakespeare Groupie – Liz Dive Anecdotes and shenanigans by a Shakespeare superfan.

Enquiries: Jenny Murby. Tel: 01480 811474 Email: jenny@murby.uk 46

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Tel: 01480 273927

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ort p e R l i c n u o C h s i r a P New Councillors!

We have 2 new councillors. Councillors extend a warm welcome to Lesley Brookes and Samantha Webb. We do still have one vacancy. Please contact me if you are interested in knowing more.

Green Bin Collection Charge The District Council has confirmed it will be charging for green waste collection from April 2024. It will be a subscription scheme and the finer details are still to be announced.

Weeds along kerbsides A petition has been circulated by various county councillors opposed to the decision to stop general spraying. Cambs County Council has decided to review this decision at the end of the season and in the meantime, any considered hazardous or creating an obstruction will be dealt with.

Interactive speed sign The speed sign is now in place in Offord Darcy. We can move this around provided we have location permission from Cambs CC Highways. The data will be collected and analysed and results included in the next PC report.

Recreation Ground – Summer Sports The annual sports sessions were a huge success again this year and the plan is to repeat them for 2024.

Millennium Green The project to renovate/refurbish the pond is underway. We have received the risk assessment and a quotation for the substantial works to be completed. These include a Handrail for the step to the decking • The replacement of the current deck as it has reached the end of its life • An additional set of steps to the existing decking on the north aspect • A new decked area, slightly north of the existing decking with steps and handrails • Removal of the 2 dead trees from the islands • Cutting back of existing trees on the pond-side to open up a larger section of the pond • Reed/lily removal to increase areas of open water • Strategic planting of hawthorn whips to reinforce natural bank protection where this is sparse. The Parish Council has 56

been setting aside funds for the last 5 years for this and has also applied for a grant from the windfarm. If all goes to plan, the works should be completed by the end of November subject to Full Council approval in October.

Small Grants Council can award small grants to village organisations and groups under what’s called Section 137. In the past these grants have facilitated brownie visits to Harry Potter World. For more information, please contact the Clerk.

Memorial Trees We have been approached about the possibility of residents planting trees in memory of a loved one. It has been decided that an area of the Millennium Green will be set aside for this. Edible fruit trees were chosen with the aim of creating a sort of ‘Community Orchard’ Council will purchase these, and the plaques (if required) to be reimbursed by the resident. If you require more information on this please contact me.

Trees The parish council has been offered some free trees. Unfortunately they come in 50’s and we don’t need 50 trees! If anyone is interested in a tree or trees for their garden please contact me for a list of what is available.

Potholes etc Councillors regularly walk around the parish noting issues and areas which require attention. These will be reported but residents can also report using the ‘report a fault’ tool on the Cambridgeshire County Council website – www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk Alternatively, if you come across anything let me know and I’ll report it for you. Anything considered dangerous is dealt with quickly but unfortunately the Highways department of Cambs County Council does not have an unlimited budget, so some things just join a ‘to do’ list.

As always, if there’s anything I can help with please get in touch.

Jackie Stanbridge, Clerk to the Council Clerk@offords-pc.gov.uk 07597 988763 57

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Craft returns to Offord.

Many years ago (1988 to be exact) a few intrepid ladies who liked to 'make stuff' met in the Church rooms to share their passion. Many years later (after a brief time away from the village) I am really pleased to report that The Corner Room Crafters have returned to Offord - this time in the wonderful venue of the Village Hall.

Primarily a papercraft and rubber stamping group we have evolved into a varied craft group. Most often 'teacher' led we learn new (or old long forgotten) techniques which have expanded from paper to textiles and inkpads to paint.

From 2024 we will meet at the Village Hall on the 2nd Saturday of each month. Our meetings take place from 10.00am to 4.00pm and includes homemade soup and homemade bread as well as a bring and share lunch.

We are a very social group and welcome anyone who would like to have a little creative escape and lots of laughter. We have experts in knitting and crochet as well as scrapbookers, memory keepers and card and stationery makers.

If you think this is if interest to you please feel free to contact me, or just drop in to see us in the Village Hall on our meeting dates. You will be made very welcome with tea or coffee and a number of people happy to chat.

Happy Crafting.

Denise Heath 01480 810008 07956 570592

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I think I might get a tattoo, It’s something I’ve wanted to do.

I know I’m quite old, but feeling quite bold And people will say ‘Look at you!’

And what will I choose to display?

A rose or a small manta ray?

A dolphin, I think, In bright purple ink, With the sea underneath shown in grey.

And where will I place this new art?

I have to choose one body part.

Decisions, decisions, for inky incisions, Or will I just look like a tart?

I thought I might choose my left shoulder, But really, I should be much bolder.

For what will it mean if it can’t be seen?

Rugged up when the weather gets colder.

I wonder if tattooing pains, Or if the ink runs when it rains?

But what do I care? I’ll keep my legs bare, It can blend with my varicose veins.

On needles I’m not at all keen, And worry in case they’re not clean.

Tattoo my hips - or just Botox my lips?

No - - I think I’ll just dye my hair green!!

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

The Offords Line Dance Group

The ‘old time’ regulars will know that Izzy loves her Christmas music and plays festive songs well before the start of October. However, this year she has beaten her own record and suggested dancing to a Christmas song on the last Tuesday in August! Fortunately, there were many protests from the dancers so Christmas songs were deferred for a few more weeks.

Numbers have remained high over the summer months which proves the popularity of these classes, with dancers still making the weekly trips from Peterborough, St Neots, Brampton, Buckden, Huntingdon and of course the locals who don’t have so far to travel.

As mentioned before, Line Dancing attracts dancers of all ages and many continue into their 80s, as proved by several of our class members, who are always up for learning a new dance.

For those who have made it a resolution to get fit and more active then there is no better way than to join the Line Dance group. We are a friendly group of people and always very welcoming to new members.

The classes are held in Offord Village Hall every Tuesday morning from 10am to 12pm with a refreshment break, and cost £5 per session, so good value for money, and there are no term breaks to interrupt the flow.

Please contact Izzy for more information.

Jenny Griffiths On behalf of Izzy Brogan Tel: 07709 344144

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Morning in Ely with 2 course lunch - Thursday 26th October 2023 - £36 Sandringham Christmas Fair - Saturday 18th November 2023 - £30 Cinderella Pantomime Matinee in Milton Keynes - Sun 17th Dec 2023 - £50

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h c r u h C d e m r o f e R St Neots United The Church is now open again for worship, at the usual time of 11am.

Some restrictions will remain in place for now. Face coverings will be optional but we understand some will prefer to continue wearing them for now. Hand sanitising will be encouraged and there will be good ventilation.

We are now able to stream our services to YouTube every Sunday. Please contact us via our website for ID and Password. All are welcome.

Come and visit the United Reformed Church which is on the High Street in St Neots. There is access without steps at the rear of the building near to Argos. Parking is available in Tebbutts Road car park, behind the Church.

For all Church matters please contact the Church Secretary, Jenny Gibbs, via our website for further information. www.stneotsurc.co.uk

h c r u h C t s i d o th e Buckden M Welcome to Buckden Methodist Church Minister:

Revd. Sue Baker-Maher 01480 473444 sue.bakermaher@methodist.org.uk

Stewards:

Bob Baxter 01480 810102 Carol Swepstone 01480 810053

Sunday Services 10.30 am Regular Activities: Bible Study group meeting on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month at 10.30am Soup and Sweet Lunch takes place on the 3rd Friday of each month at 12 noon Coffee Morning on the 1st Friday of each month from 10am - 11.30

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Village Groups & Organisations Archery Bowls Club Brownies Church Events Community Police

Marc Bax 381172 Carolyn Bargh 810237 offordguiding1@gmail.com Helen Northrop 07771 590304 Bob Bargh 810237 c/o St Neots 456111 Police Stn 0345 456 4564 Sarah Conboy 414900 Brett Mickelburgh 07441 392492 Debbie Mickelburgh 07537 121365 Liz Howes 812899 offordguiding1@gmail.com Peter Riley 811839

District Councillor District Councillor District Councillor Friends of St Peter’s Guides Neighbourhood Watch Offord Cluny & Offord Darcy Parish Council Ian Weitzel 811697 Parish Clerk Jackie Stanbridge 07597 988763 Offord Gardeners’ Assn Janet Bedingfield 810091 Offord Sch, Headteacher Kate Ruddock 810308 Chair of Governors Liz Simpkin 07976 792463 Offord PTA c/o The School 810308 Offord Day Nursery & Out of School Club Lilly Templeman 01480 811977 Offord Tots Louise Byam-Cook 07853 923126 Rainbows offordguiding1@gmail.com Senior Citizens Marlene Alderman 810609 The Offord PlayerS John Kirby 810049 Thursday Club Doreen Rowbury 811025 Village Hall hire Helen Bosworth 811892 Village Hall 300+ Club Helen Bosworth 811892 Women’s Institute Jenny Murby 811474

Whilst every effort is made to ensure information in this publication is accurate, we cannot be held responsible for any errors. To update any details above, please email offordOandA@gmail.com The views expressed in this publication may not necessarily reflect those of the Editor.

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