Eynshamnewsissue8

EYNSHAM

Council & Community Issue 8 – August - September 2014

NEWS

The inaugural Eynsham Aunt Sally tournament on Carnival weekend. Image © David Hunt, story on page 17 Just in time for the summer holiday, here’s another good read on your doormat. How a village under 5,000 strong can find so much to say remains a mystery.

There are items to interest and entertain – or in some cases make you think; group and personal triumphs to celebrate; and activities for young and old. Plus a roundup from folk weekend and carnival, with photos to jog your memory. As ever, it wouldn’t be the same without your contributions.

In this issue • • • • • • • • •

Enjoy the summer, whether you go away or not; and don’t forget we love to hear from you.

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Choices, choices 2 Folk memories 3 Contact sheets 4 – 5 Public services 6 – 9 Home front 10 – 11 Over to you 12 – 13 Local people 14 – 15 Recreation, group updates 16 – 18 What’s On: 19 – 20

Choices, choices

The County Council has a vision of a thriving Oxfordshire, supported by a 21st century transport system, and is consulting widely at this stage with roadshows around the county.

The consultation closes on 1 August so you still have time to comment: visit www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/connectingoxfordshire LIFTSHARE won’t work for everyone but every little helps. Just think how effective this could be if a few more people signed on. The journey matching service is free and there are two dozen journeys you can share any day of the week already at oxfordshire.liftshare.com

John Blackie (67) completed a 62-mile London Night Ride in June to support the B4044 Community Path campaign.

Follow the story at www.b4044path.org

EYNSHAM-SHARING – on similar lines – opens the way for local residents to share things they own, that are not being used all the time. Again, there is no charge. Perhaps you bought an expensive device that gets little use nowadays? Why not lend it to someone else in the village – when someone else may do the same for you?

Local concerns – A40 congestion and tollbridge delays, parking and potholes, school crossings and school transport – can sometimes obscure the bigger picture. How do we fund more infrastructure projects anyway and would they really make a difference? Can we balance the needs of bus and bike, or road and rail users, make better use of what we have already, or even cut down on travel?

To join up, simply Andy Swarbrick at eynshamsharing-subscribe@yahoogroups.co.uk or follow the link at http://tinyurl.com/eynsham-sharing

EYNSHAM NEWS is published by a local, not-for-profit voluntary group, set up solely to produce a community newsletter of broad general appeal. Free delivery to every household is arranged by volunteers. Eynsham News is now also online, for family and friends around the country and overseas: visit http://issuu.com/eynsham1/ Local contributions are always welcome. Next issue will be out on 22 September – copy deadline Friday 5 September.

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Editor Joan Stonham, 28 Beech Road Eynsham OX29 1LJ: eynsham.news@gmail.com Distribution coordinator Pam Breeze: 01865 880725 Advertising / sponsorship Sandy Hellig: 07551 876285, email sandy.hellig@gmail.com

Opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the News Group. Inclusion of an advertisement does not imply endorsement of the product, service or event.

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Folk Memories

weather unfortunately had a dampening effect and numbers of people around were relatively low, in spite of Open Gardens.

The organisers then experienced a few nail-biting hours, wondering whether the power cut in Back Lane would be resolved in time for the main concert in the Village Hall; but Southern Electric lived up to their promise and the lights came on again just half an hour before the show started.

The presence of three Morris sides and some lovely sunshine on Sunday transformed the atmosphere; and with Open Gardens, two fêtes and pub ‘sessions’ happening, the village had quite a buzz.

And Cornucopia enjoyed a packed house for Sandy’s ‘Tea and Jazz’.

Do pass on your thoughts on how it went for you. Did the activities disrupt or enhance yours?

All feedback would be welcome. The organising committee is thinking of a repeat performance next year.

Larry Poole’s take on Eynsham Folk Weekend – images © Richard Heard Well – what a weekend! Thanks to the active involvement of six voluntary organisations and ten businesses, plus sponsorship from another 16, the first Eynsham Folk Weekend passed off successfully and was hugely enjoyable for those who took part or listened.

To say the weather was unkind is an understatement.

After days of glorious sunshine, the heavens opened an hour before Saturday’s open air concert, and the rain was unrelenting until the indomitable Eynsham Morris singers took to the stage to finish the show.

The opening act, Oxford Village Band, played under canvas while a stoic audience of 200 or so listened under umbrellas. Eynsham Community Choir retreated to the Red Lion for their performance and Oxford Fiddle Group went al fresco in the rain again as the penultimate act.

In the afternoon some ten small groups were despatched around the village to make music in shops, pubs and open gardens, while keeping a fairly continuous sound of live music in the Square. The morning’s

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Eynsham churches

Contacts

ST LEONARD’S CHURCH OF ENGLAND Vicar: The Revd Morey Andrews 01865 881323 Curate: Revd Kath Cooke 01865 855320 Church Office & Secretary: Jan Macdonald 21 High Street 01865 883325 email stleonards_stpeters@btconnect.com SUNDAY SERVICES Holy Communion 09.00, Morning Service 10:45, Evening Service 18:00 WEEKDAYS Monday Prayer Meeting 07:00, Wednesday Communion 09:30

Allotments: John & Sara Bannister, 01865 880324 Bartholomew School: Witney Road, 01865 881430 Carnival: Julie Jordan 22 Back Lane, 01865 880042 Chemist: Lloyds Pharmacy 64 Acre End Street,

01865 881283 Childcare: Health Visitors, 01993 881887 Chiropody: Baptist Church Hall 2nd Monday,

01865 880871 Dentists: 4 Cassington Road, 01865 880047 Electoral Services: WODC, 01993 86152 Eynsham News: see page 2 Fire Station: Station Road, 01865 881337;

emergencies 999 Flooding: early warning 0845 988 1188; sandbags

WODC 01993 861000

(out of hours 0845 3039706) Gas: enquiries 0845 835 1111, leaks 0800 111 999 Grass Cutting: Parish Council, 07956 901622 Library: 30 Mill Street, 01865 880525 Market: St Leonard’s Church Hall, 01865 880928 Medical Centre: Conduit Lane, 01865 881206 Pest Control: WODC, 01993 861060 Planning: applications WODC 01993 861420 Play Areas: Parish Council, 07956 901622 Playing Fields: Management Committee Ann Cross,

01865 880712 Police: Village Hall Back Lane, incident

reporting 101, emergencies 999 Post Office: 39 Mill Street, 01865 881159 Primary School: Beech Road, 01865 881294 Recycling: District Council, 01993 861025 Road Repairs: Oxfordshire Highways, 0845 310 1111 Social Care (OCC): 0845 050 7666,

emergencies 0800 833408 Sports Centre: Back Lane, 01993 861830 Street Cleaning: WODC Street Scene 01993 861020 Street Lights: 24 hour fault line 0800 317802 Toilets: Back Lane Car Park/Oxford Road,

01249 822063 Waste Collection: WODC, 01993 861020

ST PETER’S CATHOLIC CHURCH Parish Priest: Father Martin Flatman 01865 881613 / 07719 646790 / frmartinflatman@gmail.com Parish Deacon: Rev Chris Blackman 01865 881718 SUNDAY SERVICE Sunday Mass 10:00 Saturday: Mass for Sunday 19.30, Holy Hour 18:30, Benediction 19:15 EYNSHAM BAPTIST CHURCH Minister: Revd Zoltan Biro 01865 881670 Church telephone / answerphone: 01865 882203 Church Secretary: Denise Launchbury, 82 Shakespeare Road 01865 881128 / eynsham.baptists@btinternet. com Church Treasurer: Bob Thiele 01865 426203 SUNDAY SERVICE with Junior Church 10:30; Songs of Praise 2nd Sunday of month 15:00.

PELLMANS Your Local Solicitors

Business and Employment Law Contracts, Legal Compliance and Disputes

Property

Buying and Selling Homes, Commercial and Agricultural

Zoltan Biro

Divorce

Finances, Children and Cohabitation Disputes

Eynsham’s new Baptist Minister served 7 years in Baptist churches in Transylvania. He moved to UK in 2005, with his wife Marta and three children, to continue his studies – first a Master’s at Regent’s Park College Oxford and now a PhD at King’s College London. Zoltan is a generally curious person, particularly interested in the real life stories of everyday people.

Wills, Probate and Trusts

Tax Planning and Lasting Powers of Attorney

01865 884400 www.pellmans.co.uk 1 Abbey Street, Eynsham, Oxford OX29 4TB Home visits and evening appointments available 4

Halls for hire

For details and interactive maps visit Eynsham Online Baptist Church Hall: Lombard Street

07900 066471 Bartholomew Room: Market Square

01865 716943 Berry Sports Hall: Back Lane

01993 861830 Primary School Hall: Beech Road

01865 881294 Scout Headquarters: Back Lane

01865 881787 Social & Sports Club: Swan Street

01865 881234 Sports Pavilion: Oxford Road

01865 716943 St Leonard’s Hall: Thames Street

01865 880107 Tolkien Room: Abbey Street

07454 824234 Village Hall: Back Lane - now with Wi-Fi

01865 881624 White Hart Function Room

01865 880711

Flower Festival donations of £251.06 have been sent to Eynsham Consolidated Charities, writes Elly Wastie. Thank you to all who took part or helped in any way.

Local councils EYNSHAM PARISH COUNCIL Richard Andrews 01865 880106 Gordon Beach (Chairman) 01865 880979 Andrew Bickley 01865 884496 Sue Brown 01865 464267 Peter Emery 01865 731199 Verity Hughes 01865 880243 Andy Mosson 01865 880889 Sue Osborne 01865 880285 Nick Relph 01865 464264 Olaf Rock 01865 430118 David Rossiter (Vice-Chair) 01865 881568 Dennis Stukenbroeker 01865 880609 Paul Wilding 01865 423556 Email formula: firstname.lastname@eynsham-pc.gov.uk

PARISH CLERK Rachel Faulkner, 1 Glovers Close Woodstock OX20 1NS: 07956 901622 email clerk@eynsham-pc.gov.uk

abbeyproperties

independent estate agents

OXFORDSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL Charles Mathew: 01865 882205 County Hall: 01865 792422

Your local Independent Agent established in the village since 1983

WEST OXFORDSHIRE DISTRICT COUNCIL Your district representatives now offer resident ‘surgeries’ on the first Wednesday of every month in the Bartholomew Room from 18:30–20:00. Come along and say hello and if you have a question we will try to help. And if we don’t know the answer we will get back to you.

We sell more property in Eynsham than any other agent. To benefit from our experience of the local market call us for sound, honest and reliable advice on the value of your home.

Peter Emery: 01865 731199 Edward James: 01865 731009 Peter Kelland: 01865 880028 Council Offices: 01993 861000

Abbreviations

Offices in Eynsham, Witney and Bampton

OCC = Oxfordshire County Council WODC = West Oxfordshire District Council

Telephone 01865 880697 www.abbeyproperties.tv 5

Public services

MORE new houses?

Dennis Stukenbroeker – Chair, Planning Committee West Oxfordshire will have to build about 660 new houses each year. This was the conclusion of the Strategic Housing Market Assessment, which was commissioned by the four Oxfordshire district councils and Oxford City. This is more than double the 306 houses WODC proposes in its draft Local Plan, which is scheduled to be adopted in July next year.

How many of these are likely to be built in Eynsham is still unclear. The draft Local Plan proposes that most development take place in Witney, Carterton and Chipping Norton with the rest spread over various rural sub-areas, including a local focus on Eynsham – Long Hanborough – Woodstock.

While local residents cannot stop further development, the 2011 Localism Act does provide for them to have a say on what type of development they have and where it goes if they draw up and adopt a neighbourhood plan. Eynsham Parish and District Councillor Peter Emery says residents are “defenceless” against further development applications without a plan.

The Parish Council has published a guide at Eynsham Online, explaining what a neighbourhood plan is, what it covers and the various stages to get it approved so it becomes part of West Oxfordshire planning policy. A neighbourhood plan needs to involve the whole parish – residents, businesses, schools and community organizations – so the Parish Council needs your views before it can start the process.

The consultation is open until 30 September.

Please send your comments, saying how you would like to get involved if you are in favour, to dennis. stukenbroeker@eynsham-pc.gov.uk

Parish Council Chairman Gordon Beach with the new Automated External Defibrillator (AED) cabinet A defibrillator has recently been installed in a locked, yellow cabinet outside Eynsham Co-op. It was provided through a donation to South Central Ambulance Trust (SCAS), supported by the Parish Council and the Midcounties Co-operative.

Dick Tracey, SCAS divisional responder manager, says: “Sudden cardiac arrest is the UK’s biggest killer.

The chances of successful resuscitation fall by 10% for every minute with no treatment.”

On receipt of a 999 call reporting a collapse, the ambulance service will release the AED and provide continuing support by phone until an ambulance arrives. The AED unit makes the decisions and tells the operator exactly what to do. Combined with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), it gives a patient the best possible chance.

For further resilience, the ambulance service is recruiting Community First Responders. Trained CFRs carry a defibrillator so even more time is saved; the two systems working together will make a real difference.

If you are over 18 years old and would like more information call 0800 587 0207 or visit the website www.southcentralambulance.nhs.uk

Grass cutting

Luxury or necessity? asks Parish Council Vice-Chairman Richard Andrews Neatly cut grass and trimmed hedges do make a place look good, somewhere you want to live or visit.

Likewise, uncut grass and hedges, together with weeds in the roads and pavements does give anywhere a ‘down-market’ feel.

With this in mind, Eynsham Parish Council (EPC) operates a cutting schedule which covers much of the publicly owned grass in and around the village. Some is owned by EPC but we also cut on behalf of both District and County Councils and, in some cases, we cut prominent areas which appear to have been abandoned by their owners.

A year or two ago, the County Council stopped clearing weeds from pavements and gutters so EPC 6

In brief

stepped in and sprays these areas with weed-killer at a cost of £800 per year. Next year OCC will pay only half as much for cutting the same amount – EPC will have to pay the difference or further reduce the cutting of some areas, mainly roadside verges.

The Market Square has recently had a makeover, with a clean-up to the historic market cross. Thanks to GreenTEA for support with tubs and hanging baskets and to the Garden Club for maintaining the War Memorial garden. Elsewhere, the Community Payback Team has done a great job clearing Conduit Lane and Pug Lane.

A new notice board is on order for Hazeldene Close, bringing the council-funded network up to 7 (including one at Eynsham Lock). It is great to see them so well used but some groups are taking more than a fair share of space! However important your notice, please limit the size to A5 – half the size of this page. Anything larger may be removed without warning…

EPC has kept its Council Tax precept virtually unchanged over the last few years and has a limited budget for this and other maintenance work, restricting how often the grass can be cut. This has resulted in a number of recent complaints that the grass is unkempt – which begs the questions: 1. How often should we cut the grass – most people cut their lawn every week; EPC can manage only every 3–4 weeks at best.

2. Where should we concentrate our efforts to make the village look its best. Where can we allow the grass to grow long without looking out of place.

3. How much extra per week are most residents willing to pay to achieve the results they want.

Wanted – new members Parish Council Chairman Gordon Beach

EPC would be very happy to cut the grass more often but is aware that money is tight for many residents; there is considerable reluctance to raise the precept unless there is a widespread demand to do so. This will be reviewed in October when we may conclude that we do need to raise more money to keep the village looking neat and tidy.

The Parish Council currently has two vacancies.

While we appreciate that membership is very timeconsuming, the benefits to the village are enormous.

So what are we looking for? Clearly a keen interest in all aspects of the village is a good starting point.

Each Councillor needs to attend our main meeting on the first Tuesday of each month; and will serve on two or three committees which meet less often during the year. Most meetings are held on a Tuesday, which allows everyone to plan their diaries.

Please consider joining and help to spread the work around. If you are interested then send a short letter or email to the Clerk by the end of August. This should include a potted history of your time in the village, any groups that you are currently active within, any skills which you feel would be helpful and your particular reasons for wishing to join the Parish Council.

We hope to co-opt both new members at our meeting on 7 October. For any additional information please call or email me – see page 5 for contact details.

EPC is very grateful to those residents who cut the public areas near their homes – it makes a huge difference to the look of the village but we don’t expect people to do this and many people simply cannot do so.

There is a related issue of plants and hedges spilling onto and blocking pavements and which it is the landowner’s duty to cut back. There are a number of hedges which regularly overhang roads and pavements.

The County Council can insist that hedges are cut back or may do it themselves and send the home-owner the bill.

Charity No: 1039638

Providing a safe and stimulating environment for 2–5 year olds to grow & learn, developing essential life skills for their primary education and beyond.

At Acre-End, we are committed to ensuring quality of opportunity for all children and their families. Qualified staff provide a safe, secure, creative and stimulating environment through a parent/carer community based pre-school.

Come and visit us between 10am and 11am any day.

For more information, please contact us at: enquiries@acreendpre-school.co.uk

Morning, afternoon or all day sessions offered during term time, 8:45am to 3:15pm.

For more information or to arrange a visit please contact us on 01865 883893.

Registered Charity No: 268409

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Carnival clips

Ian Moore takes a break from Eynsham Primary School to join the parade with Julie Jordan

We offer an environment to suit everyone; a quiet and comfy end, a children’s play area, plenty of seating and a brand new meeting/eating room available to book.

We host Drop-In Clinics with experts on hand to answer questions on subjects including IT, Gardening, Home Styling and more.

We also host local groups who support carers, business etc.

Stationery and greetings cards from top British Suppliers.

Contemporary, artisanal and individual gifts for you and your home.

Tried and tested equipment in our new cookshop area.

Children’s gifts from brands like Jelly Cat and Melissa & Doug.

Great coffee, homemade cakes and food available all day.

32 Mill Street, Eynsham 01865 731717 www.eynsham-emporium.co.uk

Eynsham Dental Care

Eynsham Cubs ‘The Lego Movie’ won the Donna Jones trophy.

Many thanks to Ian White for the photos

CREATING SMILES IN WEST OXFORDSHIRE

Tooth Whitening

Large Free Car Park

Dental Implants

Free NHS care for under 18s

Above, PCSO Helen Keen leads by a nose. Many thanks from the Committee to the loyal volunteers, who made such an ambitious day possible. We are always in need of extra help, so do come and join us next time!

Telephone 01865 880047 www.eynshamdentalcare.com

Belated thanks to Kevin Quinn for a great photo of the Fire Service at the toll bridge in our last issue.

4 Cassington Road, Eynsham, OX29 4LF 8

A healthy start

Volunteer of the year A national children’s charity has moved to Eynsham and partnered with The Orchard Children’s Centre to pioneer a family approach to healthy lifestyles.

Described as a mine of information, he runs the front counter at Eynsham police information point two days a week and chairs the local Neighbourhood Action Group (NAG).

He has also helped with a CCTV project, entering retail premises on a database so they are Ron Hollis received this easily searchable; assists Thames Valley Police award on with Farm Watch visits and crime reduction Tuesday 15 July. advice; and spends one day a week at Woodstock station helping with admin for the local Speed Watch scheme.

Ron said: “I am very proud to receive this award and thank all my colleagues in West Oxon for putting me forward. I look forward to continuing as a volunteer for some time to come and to helping to keep crime down in our area.”

HENRY – Health Exercise Nutrition for the Really Young – is focussed on giving babies and young children a healthy start in life. It trains professionals who work with families of under-5s, such as health visitors, midwives, community nurses and children’s centre workers.

HENRY delivers an 8-week programme for parents with young children too. These family courses are held all over the country and one ran at the Orchard Centre last term. It covers issues including parenting skills, emotional well-being and behaviour change, as well as food and activity for babies and young children. A complementary parent book, Healthy Families, was published on 2 July: read more at www.henry.org.uk Programme adjustments arising from the book will be rolled out from September. The Orchard Children’s Centre was first to experience a testing phase last term.

Local facilitators Karen and Tracey said “We are very pleased that HENRY have introduced a parent book and that we are the first group to use it. We can already see a difference... as families are able to tailor the book to meet their own needs”.

HENRY staff are delighted to have moved to Eynsham. Tom Spencer, Head of Family Support said “Everyone has been very welcoming – it’s great to feel we’re a part of the place”.

EYNSHAM POST OFFICE – NEWS / MAGAZINES 39 Mill Street, Eynsham OX29 4JX: 01865 881159 Mon - Fri 09:00 – 17:30, Saturday 09:00 – 12:30 Free personal banking with all major banks Business banking with Co-op – Santander –Barclays – Clydesdale – BOI Foreign Currency / Euros & Dollars, Travellers’ Cheques Travel Money Card Plus – 0% commission Passport and ID photos; Passport Check & Send; on the spot Travel Insurance; Motor Vehicle Licence; Rod Licence Mobile E-Top-Up & Vouchers – International Calling Cards Gift Vouchers / Postal Orders / MoneyGram – Parcel Force

The Orchard summer holiday programme at Beech Road runs Monday 21 July–Friday 29 August.

All sessions are free apart from swimming (£2 adult and £1 child).

Cards / Stationery / Toys / Dry Cleaning / Laundry Fax / Photocopy – Video Transfer National / Health Lottery – Free 24 hour ATM

• Tuesday Babies, Bumps and Bouncers drop-in 13.00–15.00 • Wednesday swimming, Primary School pool 11.00–12.00. Children must wear a swimming hat • Thursday Ring a Roses drop-in 10.00–11.30.

For enquiries please call 01865 880686 or visit www.oxonchildrenscentres.org.uk/orchard 9

Home front

We do all types of tree work including pruning, planting and felling, as well as hedge trimming and stump removal.

The Rev Peter Ridley recalls eight happy years as the last incumbent to live in St Leonard’s House. This is a first instalment – more tales and photos welcome.

gregg@allseasonstrees.com www.allseasonstrees.com Call Gregg on 01865 430536 or 07823 332247

BEECH COURT NURSING HOME “a home from home” for your elderly relations

37 Newland Street, Eynsham OX29 4LB Tel: 01865 883611

COMPUTER PROBLEM? NEED HELP BUT CONFUSED BY THE CHOICE? WE CAN DO EVERYTHING FOR YOU AND HAVE 30 YEARS OF WORKING WITH PEOPLE AND THEIR COMPUTERS. FRIENDLY ADVICE AND A DISCOUNT FOR EYNSHAM RESIDENTS BROADBAND & PHONE PROBLEMS SORTED AND WE DO MACS TOO! RING BOB ON 01865 880600 / 07768 732123

My wife Sally and I with our seven children lived in Queen Anne style on Mill Street from April 1977 to November 1984. My widowed mother stayed in the flat to the right of the main house, over the garage. We knocked open a little passage so she could be in daily contact with the family. Sally’s mother also moved to Eynsham and was immensely helpful with the garden. Other ‘lodgers’ were the present Bishop of Buckingham Alan Wilson, then serving his first curacy with me, and Caroline Cayzer when she first came to Eynsham.

The ‘Queen Anne style’ was not quite up to early 18th century standards. The Churchwardens had decorated it for us; and most things that needed to work did so when loving care and attention were applied. Things were far worse when Stuart Blanch (later Bishop of Liverpool, then Archbishop of York) and his family arrived in the 1950s, starting with the bathroom falling into the fire station (adjacent at that time). The flat and garage were built to replace what had fallen off; and Stuart arranged for the Eynsham Baptist minister, Richard Hamper, and his wife to live there.

In our day, the driveway was entered by a pair of gateways, instead of the central one built after the Vicarage was sold off. So an elegant semi-circle led to the 12 steps up to the front door. The Eynsham Morris would gather there on May bank holiday morning.

Left of the steps was an elderly mulberry tree – and woe betide drivers who parked beneath its purple staining fruit! The little stone-built ‘Brownie Room’ at the north gate was sometimes used for children’s church activities. A lofty elm stood near the furniture warehouse that replaced the fire station; but Dutch elm disease took its toll and the tree was skilfully felled across the front drive and lawn. Accomplished woodworker and former churchwarden Stanley Green made some beautiful pieces from its timber.

Kavanaghs CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS

Are you looking for an award winning local firm of chartered accountants to deal with your tax, accountancy, VAT or payroll affairs? We offer free consultations, fixed fees and flexible working hours to meet your needs.

Call Jan or Kevin now on 01865 883597 or check out our website www.kavanaghsaccountants.co.uk

t: 01865 594955 m: 07917 716004

Affordable home makeovers for living & selling Find out more at clarifyinteriors.co.uk

ROBERT HUIE Robert Huie Garden Design 27 Queen Street Eynsham Witney OX29 4HH

rh

Tel 01865 731466 Mob 07796 145476 web: www.roberthuie.co.uk email: design@roberthuie.co.uk Twitter @robhuie

THE COTSWOLD VINTAGE TEA PARTY Celebrate in style with a delicious traditional English Afternoon Tea served on beautiful Vintage China and Table Linen Perfect for your Birthday Party, Baby Shower, Christening or Hen Celebration call Jackie on 07901 600218

ELECTRICAL HIRE & SALES Freeland Road, Eynsham OX29 4AU Tel: 01865 881851 www.ehsplanthire.co.uk

Tools and plant - garden equipment - specialist pumps Sales, repairs and servicing collection & delivery for trade and DIY A friendly, local family business with over 20 years’ experience

10

Hidden gems

Weather watch

A feature from our sponsor EHS – Electrical Hire and Sales; see box on page 10 opposite for contact details.

Grant Paton of Odell Cottage introduces his weather station.

A further report is to follow.

British weather is always of interest – even of frustration when the forecast is wrong (too often!). Our weather varies so much with the seasons and also every day and even locally. We have all experienced a wet day in Oxford but a dry one in Eynsham at the same time!

I am fascinated by our weather and have for many years tried to understand what causes it and to quantify it as to temperature and amount of wind and rain, as indeed do many of us. In the past I have just used small outdoor thermometers but when my last one died, a friend suggested I install a relatively inexpensive weather station with specialist computer software.

Setting up a weather station – even an amateur one – requires careful consideration. The various sensors must not be sheltered nor unduly affected by nearby buildings or trees. Initially, I installed all the various instruments at the top of a 10ft aluminium pole attached to the side of my house. This enabled the sensors to be some 30 feet above the ground and above the roof ridge. This was all very well but since the pole was clamped only at its lower end, the top end tended to vibrate slightly in a high wind. This vibration did not affect the temperature and wind sensors but it caused false readings on the rainfall sensor. Every time we had a gale, even if it wasn’t raining, my rain gauge told me we were having a deluge... A very silly mistake!

The rain gauge was then moved and fixed firmly at the foot of the pole where it could not vibrate and since then it has behaved very reliably. The system has been recording my local weather data consistently since early June 2013.

Just over the A40 and along the Freeland Road is a family firm with almost anything you can imagine for small building works or a spot of DIY at home.

From an extension lead to a hand drill, a sander to a chainsaw, a mower to a carpet cleaner – they have got the bases covered. If your own tools need some TLC they will service / repair them but if there’s an item you need only occasionally you can hire it by the day or by the week. A ‘portable’ generator could be just the thing to get a party swinging. You may be glad of an extra vacuum cleaner afterwards as well ...

How about a digger then? Mini or 3 tonne, take your pick. A rotovator or cement mixer? There simply isn’t room here to tell you all the options. The team has 20 years’ experience and will be happy to discuss your needs. The listed price is what you pay – there really are no extras. They will deliver and collect as well, though as they’re only just over a mile away you may prefer to go and look around.

EHS prices are competitive – their retail items are especially good value. So after hiring a range of pressure washers (say), you’ll be in the right place to buy one later.

And there you have it. The family team at EHS is reliable, efficient and competitive – why go further?

The main A40 Eynsham Mon-Sat 8.30 – 5.30 Sun 10.00 – 4.30 Home grown bedding. Selection of pots & containers.

The palm café with daily specials and freshly ground coffee as well as breakfasts to afternoon teas.

Plus a well-stocked pet care section & many other items Telephone: 01865 883394 11

Over to you Sandy Hellig goes foraging – have you thought of plums?

Many thanks to Julia Loken for the illustration.

Boundary hedgerows were planted with many interesting trees, plum being a common choice. Abandoned orchards and self-seeded plum trees can be found in many places too, so a walk around the village can’t fail to turn up all manner of unusual varieties.

If you decide to forage for plums (or any other food) think about: • Where are you foraging and whose land is it on?

• The tree or shrub is living; don’t damage it by breaking branches etc.

• Only picking what you need, leave some for other foragers and wildlife.

• Not leaving litter, take a spare bag and collect some litter, giving something back to nature.

Most varieties of plums are edible, a good place to check is www-saps.plantsci.cam.ac.uk/trees/index. htm Not all are palatable unless cooked. Cooking intensifies the flavours of the most sour or bland plum, creating an explosion of taste. You’ll find lots of recipes online at www.cornucopiacooks.co.uk There are many things you can do with plums, so if the mood takes you go picking. Many plums have stones which are difficult to remove, so make jellies, cheeses and membrillo with these.

Ten things to do with your foraged plums: 1. Eat them! (best at room temperature). They keep for a few days and ripen after picking.

2. Freeze them raw to use in cooking later.

3. Stew, chill and eat with yoghurt or just on their own for a snack (or freeze the compote).

4. Make jams, jellies or cheeses.

5. Cook up a lovely chutney with apple and spices.

6. Bake a torte or cake, a crumble or a pie…

7. Make plum brandy.

8. Bottle some to eat with ice-cream.

9. Make a spicy sauce to add to stir fries or serve with pork.

10. Use any of these as a gift for friends or neighbours.

Whole Voice

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In his own rite When my mistress Helen Peacocke announced that she was going on holiday I must admit I was distraught, even more so when she said I was going away too, but we would not be visiting the same place.

Since moving in with her 18 months ago we have never been apart, yet there she was packing two cases, one for Barnaby the border collie reports on his her and a smaller ‘stay-cation’. Where are YOU going on one stuffed holiday? Why not drop us a line? with bones and slippers for me!

Actually I needn’t have worried because she took me to a local Dog Stop, where a really amazing woman called Debbie keeps this fantastic boarding house for dogs. Steve, a sprollie (springer border cross), was staying there too, which was wonderful as we were able to play together, running each other ragged round the paddocks at the back. Never have I felt so exhausted at the end of the day and never have I slept so soundly.

Only one problem, Steve got so excited about being on holiday that he woke up with the dawn chorus and barked so loudly that he woke me too, but as Debbie served our breakfast promptly that was alright.

In the afternoons Debbie organised a games session – hunt the bone in a pile of hay – that sort of thing. Gosh, it was all such fun I have asked Helen if I can have another holiday with Debbie next year.

Fay Taylor-Ball is busy getting ready for 20 September Rice? Watercress? Model boats? Well, I was beginning to think we should add these to the Classes for 2014!

But we’re drying out a bit (for now anyway!) so we’ve been putting the finishing touches to the Class List so you can access it in good time at www.eynshamvillageshow.info Men-folk you have a new challenge this year, so get your hands on the list and you’ll have time to practise and wow your friends and families over the summer!

New classes to note are...

Class 19: Adults’ Animal from Fruit or Veg. The children have always enjoyed this one so we thought we’d challenge the adults to see what they could do!

Class 58: Homebrew and Class 69: Wooden Bird or Insect House or Feeder. We thought these would keep the competitive spirit flowing.

Last year’s show was a roaring success so a massive thank you to everyone one who supported us: sponsors, exhibitors, visitors, on-the-day helpers and of course to the committee, the show just wouldn’t be what it is without your commitment and good humour.

If you have never entered Eynsham Village Show before please do have a go, over the last couple of years we’ve had lots of ‘first timers’ win which is always good to see.

Did you win a cup or trophy last year? Will you ring me (07730 954497) to arrange delivery? It would really help to get it back so the polishing can begin!

Northmoor Productions Typesetting Illustration & Graphics

West Oxon residents can buy home composters from £19.98 (plus £5.99 delivery). Or buy one and get one half price – why not link up with a neighbour?

Painting and decorating occasional wall tiling grower of courgettes telephone: 01865 880243 email: paul@eynsham.demon.co.uk

Call 0844 571 4444 or visit www.getcomposting.com 13

People Ursula came to live in Eynsham from London in 1967, when her husband Leslie was appointed to the cardiology department at the Radcliffe Infirmary.

She had trained as a nurse at University College Hospital in the late 1940s and married Leslie in 1950. Having already been involved in voluntary work, she Ursula Moxhay Goulding, soon became part BEM (1923–2014) of Oxfordshire WRVS. For many years she organised the Meals on Wheels service and was awarded the British Empire Medal for this in 1978.

In Eynsham she joined the WI Market, making interesting and unusual preserves and cakes, and in recent years her flower posies and meringues were eagerly sought after. In fact she was known as ‘the meringue lady’ to many.

Another long term interest was stamp collecting – she spent many hours sorting and packing stamps for sale in aid of Sobell House – and for a long time drove in Eynsham volunteer transport scheme too. A happy and compassionate person, she will be remembered with love by her many friends here.

The Eynsham Society and Eynsham History Group have volunteered to ‘adopt’ the cairns on the Abbey Heritage Trail – though they would welcome anyone who cares to lend a hand or keep a watching brief.

Please contact Tim Jordan if you’re interested: 01865 880123.

Noah and Sally Hollinshead (above) began the clean-up in Abbey Street on midsummer’s day, with help from Jennifer Harland and Donald and Pamela Richards.

Oxfordshire Lowland Search and Rescue held a circuit training session with a twist last month on Carnival field. Teams had to demonstrate skills such as CPR, first aid, communication, navigation, search techniques, stretcher evacuation of casualty and throw line rescue. Thanks to Louise Dennis for the story; background and photos at Eynsham Online.

Latest news on how you could help save a life is on page 6.

POSTSCRIPT: Lillian Wright thanks everyone for the cards and kind remarks about Fred, which have been a great support.

Greens Funeral Services Established 1866

An independent family owned business, with five generations of experience, offering a dignified 24 hour service, with our personal attention to detail.

Private Chapels of Rest Funeral Directors: Ian Green and David Ashton 8 Bridge Street Witney Telephone 01993 776486 21 High Street Eynsham Telephone 01865 880837 Golden Charter pre-paid plans available 14

Carnival update

DECORATED VEHICLES & LARGE WALKING GROUPS – above Eynsham Rotary Club © Ian White • Class 1 Winner Eynsham Beavers ‘Despicable Me’ 2nd Eynsham Primary School ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ • Class 2 Winner Singleton Family ‘Titanic’ 2nd Sarah’s Hen Party • Class 3 Winner Rotary Club Of Eynsham ‘Village People’ 2nd Step 2 Dance • Class 4 Donna Jones Trophy Eynsham Cubs ‘The Lego Movie’ FANCY DRESS •

•

•

•

Class 5 Winner ‘Star Wars’ (Murrell Family) 2nd ‘Hula Girls’ Class 6 Winner ‘Crocodile’ (Charlie) 2nd ‘Eynsham Martial Arts (Claire Maden) Class 7 Winner ‘Red Riding Hood’ (Beth) 2nd ‘Spongebob Square Pants’ (Marie and Abby) 3rd ‘Donut’ (Roxy) Class 8 Winner ‘Brolly Dolly’ (Diane Roles) 2nd ‘The Chuckle Brothers’ (Tara and Martha) 3rd ‘Spanish Dancer (Jessica Butler Miles)

A ‘Lights Out’ event will be held on Monday 4 August at 11.00 pm – the time the war began – at Eynsham War Memorial in Market Square (or in St Leonard’s if wet).

The memorial garden will be open all day for people to lay posies of PINK and white flowers, if they wish to do so. The church bells will be rung half muffled at around 10.30 pm. At the ceremony itself, a candle lit for each of Eynsham’s WW1 casualties will be snuffed out as their name is announced.

15

Recreation

Cricket update

Gary Cook reports from Cassington Road. Latest news, fixtures, results etc. at www.eynshamcc.org With about half of the season under way the playing side of the club has had mixed fortunes. After last year’s success, the 1st XI are struggling in Division 3 of the OCA. While spirits and enthusiasm is positive the season so far has been a series of bad results, unlucky decisions and close matches which haven’t gone Eynsham’s way. They are not getting beaten badly, but frustratingly just missing that edge required to win close matches. Hopefully the second half of the season will bring better luck and some positive results.

The 2nd XI, however, are having a great season so far, currently lying 2nd in Division 9 and due to play a semi-final of the cup against Chesterton 2nd XI.

Get lost in the Mythical Maze – this year’s summer reading challenge in the library! The legendary adventure runs through to Saturday 13 September.

Meet some weird and wonderful creatures from myths and legends and collect rewards on your journey. Call into Eynsham Library for your Mythical Maze poster, look out for exciting puzzles and fun activity sessions; and follow up online at www.mythical-maze.org.uk

Off the field the new pavilion build has started with the base almost complete. Once finished, the superstructure can begin and, weather permitting, we’ll have a sealed building before too long. The outfield is regenerating thanks to the work of external contractors paid for by a grant from Sport England and contrary to the wishes of the playing side of things, what we need now is rain!! The square is being looked after and the grass on the outfield is being kept short, so it begins to look like a cricket field again.

Anyone for netball?

Eynsham Netball Club is small but friendly and welcomes all ages and abilities. We run two weekly sessions at Bartholomew Sports Centre, Mondays 20:00–22:00 (over 16s) and Wednesdays 16:30–17:45 (12–16s). We have two successful adult teams playing in the Oxfordshire League (divisions 2 & 3) and hope to enter a junior team in the league very soon.

Football for all ages JUNIOR CONTACT DETAILS: • U6s Tom Bryant 07779 141243 training 12–26 July, resumes 13 September • U7s Matthew Long 07766 721744 training resumes 30 August.

• U8s Ben Smitten 01865 883650 • U9s Marcus Hall 07765 511449 • U11s Robbie Watson 07980 620566 pre-season training Saturday 26 July 10:30 • U13s Mark Revill 07881 247978 • U14s Mark Weller 01865 880861 actively recruiting new players to play in the Witney & District A league.

We’re looking for new players, so please come along and try us out. The first session is free! Training resumes on Monday 8 September/Wednesday 10 September. Netball is great for fun and fitness – why not give it a go! You can contact us by phone 07985 935574 or via the website eynshamnetball.co.uk

DIRTY CARPETS? UPHOLSTERY?

EYNSHAM AFC MEN’S TEAMS: Our 1st team is in the Oxfordshire Senior League Premier Division, the Reserve team is in Oxfordshire Senior League Division Three and the A Team will play in Witney and District Division four.

For carpet, rug & upholstery cleaning in Eynsham at the most competitive rates Call

The club is always open to people wanting to play football at any of these levels. Training is every Tuesday and Thursday down at the playing fields, 18:00 for 18:15 start. We have various friendly fixtures and tournaments starting from the end of July so if interested please contact Dave Morris: 07786 331271.

GRIMEBUSTERS 01993 868924 01865 726983

16

Let’s get active!

The White Hart

All sessions in Bartholomew Sports Centre, Main Hall. Just turn up for the first three! Enquiries 01865 731090

31 Newland Street Eynsham Under New Ownership

BASKETBALL Tuesday & Friday 29 July–28 August exc 19 August, 13.00 – 15.00. Price £4 / session

Great Ales, Great Food, Great Company!

MULTI-SPORTS Wednesday 30 July–27 August exc 20 August, 12.00 – 14.00. Price £4 / session

3 en-suite letting rooms Function room for hire Lovely pub Garden

ATHLEFIT Tuesday 29 July, 5 & 12 August, 10.00– 11.30. Price £7 member / £8.35 non-member

Telephone: 01865 880711 email: whiteharteynsham@gmail.com

JUDO 3 day summer holiday course for ages 6 to 15, Monday-Wednesday 18–20 August, 10.00–15:00.

Price £50 for 3 days / £20 per day. Contact Jonathan Gerrans: 01865 884339/07967 349864

Cornucopia

Cooks

www.cornucopiacooks.co.uk

Private dining and cookery classes at 1 High Street, Eynsham Ready meals lovingly prepared, available fresh or frozen Delicious food prepared for all occasions

Aunt Sally

Contact Sandy for more info: 07551 876285 /sandy@cornucopiacooks.co.uk

P Bruno Car Repairs

Notes from inaugural Eynsham Aunt Sally Tournament; winning team from the Red Lion: image © David Hunt

25 years of providing a Sterling service

What could be better on a warm sunny Sunday afternoon than to be in The Queen’s Head garden with a cold pint, watching the local teams battle it out over the oche?

Teams from the Sportsman, Social Club, Queen’s Head, Sporty Rejects, Red Lion and the Shovels competed in the round robin tournament on Carnival weekend, hoping to be crowned top of the Eynsham teams – and in the process winning a £100 prize kindly donated by Pete Jones.

Hopefully after the success of this event it will become a permanent fixture in the Eynsham social calendar, continuing the carnival weekend spirit and traditional festivities.

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Holding the IMI level 3 certificate for Hybrid and electrically powered vehicles.

Appointments can be arranged to fit in with your schedules.

Free Local Collection & delivery Hours: 8am–5pm Monday to Friday. 8.30am–12.30pm Saturday CALL US NOW 01865 883 413 Unit 7 Bottom Yard Oakfield Ind Est, Eynsham Visit our website: www.pbruno.co.uk

17

Group updates

Eynsham Neighbourhood Care Scheme arranges transport for elderly or infirm parishioners to hospitals and clinics. If you need transport by car, please ring 01865 881780. If there is no reply leave your number on the answer facility – I will get back to you. David Miller Friends of Helen & Douglas House: our quiz nights continue at the Talbot on the second Monday of each month. We now have an additional quiz on the fourth Monday at the Oxfordshire Yeoman, Freeland (Trevor’s new pub). Maureen McCreadie: 01865 883464

Bartholomew Players: Denise Santilli writes… thanks to all who generously sponsored the Calendar Girls’ latest challenge – a 26-mile ‘marathon’ walk for SENSE, the Charity for deafblind people – raising £1560. We started at midnight on 21 June and finished in searing heat at 10:00 next morning. You’ll find more photos at www.justgiving.com/BPCalendarGirls Carers’ Group: our meetings are a very pleasant time for carers and friends to get together – a chance to talk over worries and concerns, relax and share experiences.

Our ‘resident’ professional, Anney Harris from Carers Oxfordshire, is on hand to steer us through problems with grants and respite care, etc. Recently Jon Hardy from the Fire Brigade came to talk about fire safety in the home and he is following this up with individuals.

We have also had a visitor from Vale House, a charity supporting people with severe dementia, and some of us attended the dementia awareness course in Eynsham. Being prepared can be such a help, to us and others.

We always welcome anyone to join us, down a drink (non-alcoholic!) and have a good chat. We meet on the third Wednesday of each month at 11:00 in Eynsham Emporium. Pamela Richards: 01865 881396

RW CARPENTRY Over 20 years’ experience in a wide range of carpentry services for home and businesses - no job too big or small. Contact us for a free site visit and quotation. email robbie@rw-carpentry.co.uk www.rw-carpentry.co.uk call Robbie on 07980 620566 18

What’s on

Specialising in the letting of property in the Eynsham/Witney area Professional advice Free market appraisal Competitive fees

July 29 COMMUNITY SAFETY ROADSHOW and residents’ survey, Market Square 09:30–12:00.

July 30 Arts Group, Bartholomew Room 19:30.

Paul Hughes, Michael Owen and the Lania artists.

For individual service call Christopher Dodds - 01865 883108 cnd@abbey-rentals.co.uk

August

11b High Street Eynsham www.abbey-rentals.co.uk

2 GreenTEA, Eynsham Emporium 10:30–12:00.

Contact Ros Kent: 01865 884119 3 Folk Club, The Red Lion 20:00.

Contact Chris Roles: 01865 880674 4 LIGHTS OUT CEREMONY, War Memorial 23.00.

World War One Centenary event – page 15 6 Council Drop-in, Bartholomew Room 18:30 – page 5 7 Country Market, St Leonard’s Hall 09:00.

Free tastings.

Contact Sue Butler-Miles: 01865 880928 11 Friends of Helen & Douglas House, The Talbot 19:30. Quiz night.

Contact Maureen McCreadie: 01865 883464 12 Garden Club, Sports Pavilion 19:00.

Summer Party.

Contact Norma Gummow: 01865 882417 15 Blood donors welcome, Village Hall 13:30–15:25 and 16:15–19:30. Tel: 0300 123 23 23 19, 20, 21 August Oasis, Village Hall 10:30–15:30.

Contact Ann Hall: 01865 882985

A home-based florist specialising in stunning bespoke flower arrangements. We have experience over a range of budgets and guarantee fresh flowers every time whatever the occasion. Call Charmaine on 07733 324369 email info@fusions.org.uk

www.fusions.org.uk

Here’s a trip down memory lane with herbs and cottage garden plants… What did your family grow?

20 Carers’ Group, Eynsham Emporium 11:00.

Contact Pamela Richards: 01865 881396 24 Gatehouse closed for maintenance, contributions welcome again on 5 October.

Contact Raymond Elliot: 01865 881346 24 Cricket Club, School Piece Sports Field, Cassington Road 13:00–20:00.

Beer Festival – all welcome 27 Arts Group, Bartholomew Room 19:30.

Show and Tell – members’ work.

Contact Eric White: 01865 722989

For General Building of the highest quality Extensions & Conversions Renovations & Refurbishments Friendly, Conscientious & Reliable - With local references Telephone: 01865 880441 Mobile: 07976 880253 Stevecreaseybuildingservices.co.uk email: stevecreasey3@btinternet.com

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September 3 4

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Council Drop-in, Bartholomew Room18:30 – page 5 Country Market, St Leonard’s Hall 09:00.

Free tastings. Contact Sue Butler-Miles: 01865 880928 Garden Club, Outing to RHS Wisley leaves Back Lane Car Park 08:30 Folk Club, The Red Lion 20:00.

Contact Chris Roles: 01865 880674 Friends of Helen & Douglas House, The Talbot 19:30. Quiz night.

Women’s Institute, St Leonard’s Hall 19:30.

Dan Allen, What your granny did in the war.

Contact Ann Wotherspoon 01865 882011

A bomb that didn’t go off: thanks to Neil Megson for this photo of his Grandad Phillip Blake, September 1940 13 Swap Shop, Sports Pavilion, Oxford Road 10:00–11:30.

Contact Liz Bickley: 01865 884496 13 Oxfordshire Churches Ride & Stride 10:00–18:00; sponsored Bible read at St Peter’s 17 Carers’ Group, 20 VILLAGE SHOW, Village Hall and Scout Hall 09:00–17:00 – page 13 24 Arts Group, Bartholomew Room 19:30.

Michael Staniforth, Art Restoration.

26 Community Cinema, Village Hall 19:30 – page 18 These listings are open to all community groups and we welcome photos too – see page 2 for contact details. Next issue will be out on 22 September – copy deadline Friday 5 September.

Floral designs for every occasion Bouquets, plants, cards and accessories Local deliveries and e-florist service 37 Mill Street, Eynsham OX29 4JX 01865 881624 www.mille-fleurs.co.uk

DAVID GREEN PAINTER AND DECORATOR

Visit Eynsham Online at www.eynsham-pc.gov.uk

Over 35 years in the trade

Our sponsors

77 WITNEY ROAD EYNSHAM 01865 882126 07732 778604 daviddaisygreen@gmail.com

Thanks to Eynsham Dental Care, Eynsham Garden Centre, Electrical Hire & Sales (Oxford) Ltd and the Eynsham Churches; relevant features continue.

City and Guilds trained workforce

Printed in Eynsham by Berforts Information Press 20