MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Herald Contact Details
Editor � HanboroughHerald@gmail.com
Advertising Officer: Val Pankhurst
� hheraldadverts@gmail.com
☎ 07772 094819
Distribution: Sarah Nicholls ☎ 01993 881466
Management Committee: All of the previous plus:
Chairman: Nigel James ☎ 01993 881711
Treasurer: Michael Greenway ☎ 01993 357014
Committee Member: Jane Lewis ☎ 01993 883077
Where can I get a copy of theHerald?
If you do not have a copy of the Herald delivered to you, they are available from the following locations:
• The Cycle Shop
• The Co-Op
• Suzuki Garage
• Methodist Church
• Siblings Hair Dressers, or
at: issuu.com/hanboroughherald
Please
Your Letters
Hello,
I would appreciate it if any of your readers may be able to assist me.
My Grandparents Margaret and John Bennett were residents of the village until they both passed away over the past couple of years.
I am looking for any original artwork of my grandma. She regularly exhibited and sold her paintings locally. Any help or offers to sell her art would be much appreciated.
Kindest regards
Em Bennett
(Please send any responses to the above to HanboroughHerald@gmail.com care of The Editor)
PART TIME DOMESTIC HELPER REQUIRED for a young newly arrived family (2 children 7 & 4 both at school in Oxford) living in Long Hanborough.
3 or 4 days a week covering cleaning, laundry, ironing etc. ideal to start in January 2025. Please call 07922988888 or email paultjones@mac.com
Waste & Recycling
Your collection day is Wednesday
Wednesday 11th December Wednesday 27th November
BLUE lidded bins are for all recycling except glassbottles/jars. In GREEN weeks, general recycling, glass, food waste, cooking and engine oil, batteries, bagged fabrics, shoes, small electrical items and garden waste will be collected. In GREY weeks, general rubbish and food waste will becollected.
Residents can now report a missed bin collection via this online form: westoxon.gov.uk/missedbin
Unless delayed by a Bank Holiday (*) Visit the website or contact us to:
• Sign up for garden waste collections (chargeable service)
• Report a missed collection (within two working days)
• Request a food waste caddy
• Replace a damaged or broken bin
• Ask a question about recycling � www.westoxon.gov.uk
Parish Council December Report
Hanborough Parish Councillors
Richard Devereux-Cooke (chair)
☎ 07785 391189
� rdc@hanborough-pc.gov.uk
Michael Franklin
� mikefranklin18@outlook.com
Rod Fraser
☎ 01993 880195
� rod.fraser@hanborough-pc.gov.uk
Rich Fuller
☎ 01993 880337
� rich.fuller@hanborough-pc.gov.uk
Tom Lewis
� HPCTLCH@gmail.com
Sam Newman (vice chair)
� sam.newman@hanborough-pc.gov.uk
Steve Nicholls
�
Steve Page
☎ 07703 545349
� steve.page@hanborough-pc.gov.uk
Jack Thorne
� jackfthornehpc@gmail.com
Lucy Tritton
☎ 01993 881597
� lucy.tritton@hanborough-pc.gov.uk
Officers of the Parish Council
Jon Gammage, Clerk
☎ 07909 514884
� clerk@hanborough-pc.gov.uk
Adrian Edwards, Finance Officer
Also with responsibility for Planning, Cemetery & Allotments matters.
✉ Fermain, East End, North Leigh, Oxfordshire, OX29 6PZ
☎ Office Hours: 01993 773532, Mobile: 0776 7020 290
� hanboroughpcfinance@outlook.com
County & District Councillors supporting Hanborough Parish Council
Liam Walker, County Councillor
☎ 07850 014350
� Liam.Walker2@oxfordshire.gov.uk
Lidia Arciszewska: District, Councillor ☎ 01993 882427
� lidia.Arciszewska@westoxon.gov.uk
Roger Faulkner: District, Councillor
☎ 07930 306114
� Roger.Faulkner@westoxon.gov.uk
A. R. COOK Windows & Doors
High quality windows & doors installed with care by your local craftsman Alistair Cook
10 The Pieces, Bampton, Oxon OX18 2JZ
Tel: (01993) 210067 Mob: 07774524679 alistair_arc@yahoo.co.uk
Hanborough Manor CESchool
Last term saw lots of exciting learning opportunities for our children – here are a few of the highlights from some of the classes.
HOLLY CLASS (foundation stage)
One of our favourite topics last term was learning about hedgehogs, how they hibernate, what they eat and what they look like by labelling their body parts using our phonics knowledge we have learnt so far.
In Art we studied Jackson Pollock and have produced our own versions of his work.
Charlie “The best thing is crafts (The Junk modelling area). I’ve made a robot and a kitten”.
WILLOW CLASS
Last term, we learned about three inspiring women who fought for change: Rosa Parks, Emmeline Pankhurst, and Malala Yousafzai.
When we learned about Emmeline Pankhurst, we held a class vote, made our own sashes, signs and banners and even had a suffragette march around the school.
To explore Rosa Parks’ story, we re-enacted the famous bus scene and talked about how her actions changed society.
Finally, we read Malala’s story, *Malala’s Magic Pencil*, and imagined what it would be like to have a magic pencil to make the world a better place. We also talked about her courage and thought about moments in our own lives when we have been brave.
ELM CLASS
Elm class were lucky enough to be chosen to represent Hanborough Manor when visiting Elderberries. On our visit we met Beryl who was celebrating her 105th birthday! When asked by the group leader how old they thought Beryl was we had answers ranging from 39 –109. The children were amazing at helping the visitors to make paper crowns to help with the birthday celebrations. We made a card and gave Beryl some flowers and chocolates, we also sang happy birthday! She was so happy to see all the children and they were exemplary ambassadors for the school.
PINE CLASS
In History, Pine Class thoroughly enjoyed their Ancient Greek day, where they dressed up and took part in fun, interactive activities to deepen their understanding of the era. In Science, they have loved investigating the topic of light, conducting experiments and learning about how light travels. Meanwhile, in Art, they have been exploring new techniques (line drawing) and creative projects, rounding off a truly enriching and successful first term.
IS YOUR CHILD DUE TO START SCHOOL IN SEPTEMBER 2025?
If you have a child who is due to start school in September 2025 please come and have a look around our lovely school. The deadline for applying for a school place is January 2025 and we would be proud to chosen as the school to start your child’s education.
To book a tour please contact the school office by email on office.3147@hanborough-manor.oxon.sch.uk or telephone 01993881446
Sarah Nickelson and the Hanborough Team
Can we save the Hand and Shears?
Do you want to see a thriving, community-friendly pub in Church Hanborough again? Please take a few minutes to complete our online questionnaire so we can gauge the level of support.
After more than 12 months of closure, Wells & Co have put the Hand and Shears on the market. This comes after official recognition of the pub as an Asset of Community Value, meaning that it merits protection because of its importance to the life of the area. A group of residents now wants to determine whether it can be bought and maintained for the community in the long term. The questionnaire, kindly provided by the charity Plunkett UK, is the first step.
We need to know your views on what might be provided and what would receive your support. Please be as honest and realistic as possible in your answers! It is entirely anonymous, unless you wish to add your details and keep in touch.
Have you heard about CAPZero?
CAPZero, the ‘Community Action Plan for Zero Carbon Energy’ is a pioneering community innovation project, the first local action plan in the country and has been set up as part of Project LEO, ‘Local Energy Oxfordshire’. The aim of the plan is to achieve Net Zero Carbon standards within the Cuckoo Lane Primary Substation Area by 2050. This area includes all or parts of 8 West Oxfordshire parishes, including Cassington, Eynsham, Freeland and Hanborough. The plan is now in an exciting implementation phase, thanks to funding from Low Carbon Hub and West Oxfordshire District Council, with communities working together to make it happen.
GreenTEA, a community group in Eynsham which has been active for many years, was involved in the development of the action plan and is now working to implement it in the Eynsham area; more recently, residents in Freeland set up Freeland Energy Group, to kickstart implementation in the village.
The CAPZero outlines how residents and businesses need to reduce their energy usage by installing energy
This kind of venture has been successfully achieved in hundreds of other communities across the UK, including locally in Bladon and Stonesfield. Will Hanborough be next?
To access the questionnaire, point your phone camera at this QR code, or go to www.bit.ly/HandandShears
Any questions? Please email: handandshearsltd@gmail.com
Cheers and thank you!
John Corlett for the Hand and Shears Community November 2024
efficient measures such as wall and loft insulation, or adopting ‘Time of Use’ tariffs etc. The project seeks to help communities gain access to expert know-how on renewable energy sources like roof-top PV and heat pumps, as well as up-to-date information on funding and grants to make things happen.
The plan also covers sustainable transport, planning and land use, and demonstrates a transition is possible that works for the community.
Hopefully, we will have our own Energy Group in Hanborough soon. If you are interested in getting involved, or if you already have made some steps towards retrofitting your house or moving to renewable energy and would be prepared to share your experience with others, please let me know.
Dr Lidia Arciszewska
District Councillor for Freeland and Hanborough lidia.arciszewska@westoxon.gov.uk
Oxford Bus and Morris Motors Museums
Christmas and New Year
Father Christmas will be coming on Sundays 15 and 22 December to the bus museum in Long Hanborough from 10am until 3pm. Plans are being made to create his Grotto within a bus in the museum and to hold a Christmas Tombola. A small charge will be made for children to see Father Christmas but they will be given a gift. There will be bus rides at 12.15 and 2.15pm. A great way of entertaining your children or grandchildren!
If you are at a loose end after the festivities, why not visit the museum on New Year’s Day when we are holding a running day. Several buses from our running fleet will take part with regular departures from the museum on different routes. You will be able to experience what it was like to travel by bus in the 1950s and 1960s.
The picture is of two objects outside in the museum yard. They often puzzle visitors. We have tried to grow plants in them to make the museum look more attractive. But what was their original purpose.
Until the 1960s buses were made by attaching a completed body onto a chassis, which had the engine and driving cab at the front, the transmission down the length of the chassis to the rear wheels.
After the First World War the War Department sold off its surplus lorries, which had been brought back from France. Some ex-servicemen bought the lorries and removed the lorry body and mounted a bus body on the chassis. Only later were
Freeland Gardening Club
We would like to wish everyone a Very Happy Christmas and a successful Gardening 2025.
The club had a well attended Annual General Meeting on 28th October in Freeland Hall.
Terry Jones, who is retiring as chairperson, remarked on the interesting and varied programme of speakers we had enjoyed in 2024. He had taken over as temporary Treasurer until a new Treasurer was appointed.He thanked Brian Wildblood who had been Treasurer since the Club began and has now retired from the post.
chassis designed especially for buses.
When London Transport overhauled its buses, it would separate the body from the chassis at the start of the work. The overhaul of the bodies and chassis did not take the same time. When a chassis was complete, the first available body would be attached. It was rare that a departing chassis would have the same body as when it arrived.
Each new type of chassis had to be subjected to rigorous testing before being put on the market. To do this the weight of the body and its payload had to be replicated.
AEC of Southall, who made most of Oxford’s buses until 1967, used these two weights mounted on the chassis frame between the wheels to simulate the weight of the body during testing.
Brian, who was not present had sent an end of year report. The end of year membership numbers were 40. It was decided to increase the subs to £25 a year payable from the November meeting.
June Counsell, the Programme Secretary then gave a list of the excellent speakers she had booked for the coming year starting with a talk on ‘Bees and Beekeeping’ given by David Busby on 25th November at 7.30 pm in Freeland Hall. There is no meeting in December due to Christmas.
We elected Alison Faulkner as our new Chairperson and all the Committee are willing to continue. Very good news that Terry Noton has offered to take over the finances. We thanked him for this and he will be in touch with Brian and Terry Jones.
Alison thanked Terry Jones for all his hard work as Chair person.
The meeting was followed by homemade cakes from the Committee and hot drinks. For any further information about the Club please contact me at janetdalton9@gmail.com
Janet Dalton (Publicity Secretary)
Hanborough GardenClub
December Report Membership
The Hanborough Garden Club wish you all many best wishes for the festive season and for 2025. December is on us again, it comes round so quickly. I hope that the winter and spring won’t be quite as wet as in 2024 - if for nothing else than to give my apple trees a break and not have quite so much scab as they did this year.
To end the year our AGM and Social Evening is on Thursday 5th December doors open at 7.10pm. We’ve decided to make this more of a social event, with light refreshments, our usual wine and soft drinks, and a bumper raffle –there may even be games… We look forward to seeing you there. There is no charge for partners and friends who’d like to attend.
Our January talk, from our own Rob Hancock, is about Raised Beds. Members who attended his last talk about dahlias, will know this is a talk not to be missed, being full of handy tips and techniques, and very well illustrated.
If you would like to become a member or renew membership for 2025, please go to the website for details: www.hanboroughgardenclub.org/ Membership is £20 for the year, and £36 for two people living at the same address. Tickets for nonmembers attending talks are £5.
Membership entitles you to: free entry to talks, a discount card to use at local nurseries, and a free glass of wine or juice at every meeting.
All talks are at the Recreation Hall, Long Hanborough doors open at 7.10pm but the talks begin at 7.30. The talks are open to all – we are a very friendly club and at each talk we have refreshments and a raffle. For up to date information and information about how to become a member, please visit our website www.hanboroughgardenclub.org/
Events for 2024/2025
Thursday 5th December
Recreation Hall, 7.10 for a 7.30 start. AGM and Social.
Thursday 30th January
Recreation Hall, 7.10 for a 7.30 start. Rob Hancock, a talk about Raised Beds.
Thursday 27th February
Recreation Hall, 7.10 for a 7.30 start. Deborah Hayter – How Enclosure Shaped Oxfordshire’s Landscape.
Thursday 27th March
Recreation Hall, 7.10 for a 7.30 start. Dr Andrew Lack, a talk about Swifts.
Thursday 24th April
Recreation Hall, 7.10 for a 7.30 start. Lucy Tritton –Gardens in Pictures
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Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney, Property Trusts, Pre-paid Funeral Plans, Equity Release & Probate Free quotes and advice with home visits if needed. 01993 220281 / 07769730616
Bladon and Woodstock Flower Club
Margaret Lang
Hello everyone – here I am again and as I look out of the window the sun is shining but there is a chill in the air. We had a wonderful Imposed workshop on the 11th November. We worked in groups of three and were given the same flowers, foliage, sticks, wool and wire wreath rings and from that we had to create an arrangement in one hour. Every arrangement was so different and yet we had used the same items. All, the arrangements were raffled at the end of the evening.
We now look forward to our big event at Exeter Hall on 4 December when we have Arnaud Metarie demonstrating his Festive Floral Fantasy. This is our fund -raising event but at the same time it will be a very sociable evening.
The Club does not meet in January. On 10th February we have Carol Gardiner a National Demonstrator with her title Winters Palette, at our usual meeting place the Bowls and Tennis Clubhouse, Cadogan Park, Woodstock. Our meetings start at 7pm with the doors opening at
6.15pm. On March 10th we have our Annual General Meeting, after a short break of a coffee and cake we have a National Speaker Simone Squire with the title ‘More than a Slab of Chocolate’. Subscriptions are also due on that date of £42 for the year. Visitors are always welcome with a charge of £8.00. We do have a wonderfully varied programme already setup for 2025/2026. If you would like to know anything further about the Club, please contact me on 01865 376587
As we approach the end of 2024, let’s take a look back at some of the amazing things our young people have achieved this year…
Our members have enjoyed night hikes, camp fires, first aid training, gliding, camping, swimming, rock climbing, scuba diving, cycling, pond dipping, star gazing, cooking, team-building, games, competitions, building planters, walking through woods, visiting places of worship, axe throwing, making s’mores, planting seeds, orienteering, water fights, arts and crafts, and two of our members even attended the World Jamboree in South Korea in the summer!
Now of course, none of these would have been possible without our amazing team of volunteers, so we need to say a BIG THANK YOU to everyone that has volunteered with us this past year.
We will be running the Christmas Post once again in Long Hanborough and Church Hanborough. As usual, please post your cards in the box in The Cycle Shop & General Store on Main Road anytime from Saturday 23rd November to Friday 13th December and volunteers from your local Scout group will deliver them during the weekend of 14th & 15th December. Suggested minimum donation 50p per card, and all proceeds will go to the 1st Hanborough Freeland Scout Group. Thank you for your
support!
We do need adult volunteers to work with our youngest members: the Beavers. They meet on Wednesday evenings at Freeland Village Hall, from 5:30 until 6:45. Becoming a volunteer leader is an opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of young people, while also enriching your own life. As a leader, you’ll guide Beavers through activities that foster essential skills like leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork, helping to shape responsible and confident young people. You'll have the rewarding experience of seeing young people grow, face challenges, and succeed—all thanks to the time and guidance you provide. Not only do you get to enjoy exciting adventures and be part of a close-knit community, but you also develop your own leadership and communication skills. Volunteering as a leader is more than just a role – it’s a chance to leave a lasting legacy and inspire the next generation! Please contact us at gsl@hfscouting. org.uk to express your interest and for further details. We are very fortunate to have such active Scouts groups serving our young people in Hanborough and Freeland: make 2025 the time for you to step forward and join our team, to help us make a real difference to our communities.
Matthew Ruddle (Publicity Rep)
Bridewell Gardens Celebrates 30 Years of MentalHealth Recovery and Launches ExcitingNew
Transformational
Campaign
Bridewell Gardens Marks Three Decades of Life-changing Mental Health Support Through Horticulture
Bridewell Gardens, a pioneering mental health recovery service proudly celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. Since 1994, Bridewell Gardens has been at the forefront of the field of Social & Therapeutic Horticulture in supporting people whose lives have been significantly affected by mental ill-health to work towards recovery.
A Legacy of Healing and Growth
For three decades, Bridewell Gardens has provided a safe and nurturing environment where people can work together to create and develop a stunning walled garden and care for a 5-acre vineyard. In the heart of West Oxfordshire, the garden is a peaceful setting where people can find tranquillity, build confidence, and develop new skills.
Looking to the Future
Bridewell Gardens is committed to its mission of providing transformative mental health support so that everyone, whatever their mental health can live well in our communities. Its future plans will enable Bridewell to reach into the community to work with more people affected by mental ill health, and to better meet the needs of the local
community. By increasing the training and volunteer opportunities, the team will make an even greater impact.
Exciting New Fundraising Campaign
In celebration of its 30th anniversary, Bridewell Gardens is thrilled to announce the launch of an ambitious fundraising campaign for a new £160k capital project within the gardens. This project will expand its therapeutic programme to better serve the community. An overhaul of crumbling infrastructure, a new year-round activity space and outdoor kitchen and a new polytunnel to increase production of plants.
The first phase of this fundraising campaign has just been launched – a crowdfunding campaign to raise £59k for a key working space at Bridewell. See here: www.spacehive.com/bridewellgardens This campaign represents a unique opportunity for the community to contribute to the future of Bridewell Gardens.
Join the Journey
For more information, please visit the website at Donate 30th Anniversary | Bridewell Gardens or contact Bridewell’s Communications Officer, Rachel Green, at rachel@bridewellgardens.org
Over the last month, the Rainbows and Brownies have:
• Made edible structures from fruit (and eaten them!) • Done activities in relation to reaction times for their motorsports badge – human hungry hippos, catch the soft toy • Had a colourful science evening thanks to one of our amazing leaders who is a scientist • Helped a Hanborough fireworks and • Taken part in remembrance parade through the village.
Hanborough WI
November’s meeting was a Christmas Craft evening. Members were shown and then encouraged to make a metre of mini paper bunting. The second activity was to make a peg doll angel, a small one on a stand. The members spent over an hour on their makes. It was just as well the tables were covered with plastic cloths, as the PVA glue spread beyond the pots and pennants! Cutting and sticking were a fun activity in themselves. Members were able to take home their makes and extra materials to finish them off. One of the angels that appealed to me had spectacles. One member started a trend when she turned her bunting into a Christmas necklace, very fetching! Refreshments were served and members were still crafting, a very busy evening with lots of conversations.
Elderberries
Long Hanborough Guides have:
• Made soap and decorated candles • Had a ‘chill out’ games evening • made edible bonfires, cooked marshmellows over a candle and sung campfire songs.
Were you ever a brownies or guide? Do you remember the fun you had and the difference it made to your life? Maybe you weren’t but would like to find out what we do? Please consider coming and helping at our guide units in Hanborough and North Leigh on a Monday or Tuesday freelanddistrictguiding@btinternet.com
Next month’s meeting will be on a Christmas theme. There is no Hanborough Herald in January, so December’s meeting will not be reported on, but I can confidently predict, we will have a fun evening.
January’s meeting will be Seated Zumba, a more energetic meeting.
All women can be sure of a warm welcome at our meetings. If you are not sure if you would like the group, please come along for a visit. There will be no obligation to join. We meet on the second Thursday of each month at The Recreation Hall. Meetings start at 7.30pm and last to between 9 and 9.30pm.
Please call Carol Bower on 881930 to arrange a visit.
A social group for the over 65s with company, laughsand lunch! Irealise I’m probably more than a bit biased but for me and all of us who meet up on Wednesdays Elderberries is a special place and a big part of everyone’s week
Over the last month we have had the honour of helping Beryl celebrate her 105th birthday helped also by Year 4 from Hanborough Manor School who we love to see and are coming back to sing their Christmas songs.
We are also very lucky to have Eileen with us who on her birthday shared with us a poem she wrote and I’ve included it here with her permission
Happy birthday to both of these lovely ladies!
On Wednesdays it’s Elderberries
The highlight of the week
It’s where we go to meet our friends
It’s company we seek
There’s always entertainment
And a lovely lovely lunch
We have many willing helpers
Such a kind and caring bunch
So thank you Gill for all you do
And all your helpers too
Without your generous gift of time What would we oldies do.
FreelandDistrict
Wroslyn Road, Freeland, OX29 8AQ
Open Monday- Saturday 9.00am-5.00pm; Sunday 9.30am-4.00pm
Tel:-01993 881430
Website:https://freelandnurseries.wordpress.com/
• Nordmandii non-drop Christmas trees
• Containerised Christmas trees
• Holly wreaths
• Poinsettias and other house plants
• Main crop potatoes 25kg & 10kg
• Kindling and logs
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Herald Cryptic Crossword No. 160: December 2024
BY DIVALDE
This month’s answers may be foundat
http://divalde.wordpress.com
Across
1 PM tries remark a different way (4,7)
8 Woman climbs out of crevasse (3)
9 South South East Red Rum returned for ladykiller (9)
11 Model question (5)
13 Former President rewrote I need job (3,5)
16 Spilt ale in meadow (3)
17 Withdrew ranked sound (5)
19 In other words he was specialised (5)
20 Only US president not born on North American mainland (5)
22 Zero squared must be cubed (3)
23 Hot or cold connection (8)
26 Home to worlds tallest building (5)
28 Benefit of publicity viewpoint (9)
31 Sister sounds like nothing (3)
32 Old damp runt.' Do your own anagram! (6,5)
Down
2 Greek character follows Eastern Australian (3)
3 Fashionable LA drive (5)
4 Pulse detected in Heath Robinson contraption (5)
5 Ancient Asian people crushed inside (3)
6 Short umpires (4)
7 Adorable old stray dog (11)
9 Lewd dim loon chased about in local road (8,3)
10 Renewed respect for ominous presence (7)
12 Lowest cardinal number expressed in phonetics (3)
13 Island program (4)
14 US area I broke up to make larger landmass (7)
15 Checking other pubs for discreet bar (5)
18 500 to 1000 surround 2 rings for Tolkien Mountain (4)
21 Lost initially (1,1,1)
24 Caught mass hearing (5)
25 Palindrome that goes around (5)
27 No right to brand the Beatles for instance (4)
29 Customised and all that you are is here (1.1.1)
30 Meg came back for Ruby (3)
Answers for No 159 November 2024
Across: 2 Frame: 5 Vivid: 8 Air: 9 Telford: 10 Agnetha: 11 Batcave: 14 Ethical: 17 Surinam: 21 Exmouth: 24 Montana: 25 Village: 26 Cam: 27 Sheds: 28 Three: Down: 1 Parade: 2 French: 3 Arctic: 4 Establishment: 5 Valet: 6 Viola: 7 Dodge: 12 Chai:
13 Vera: 15 T.Rex: 16 Into: 18 Ringer: 19 Nuance: 20 Miasma: 21 Elves: 22 Milne: 23 Urals:
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PIANO TEACHER
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Long Hanborough Methodist Church
Long Hanborough Methodist Church. Minister: Rev. Sue Jacobs, Tel: 07949 508017
Dear Friends,
Here we are at the beginning of December already and signs of the joy of Christmas are popping up everywhere. But Christmas is loud, isn’t it? So much expectation. So many voices.
Telling us how to celebrate, what to wear, what to eat and drink, what to watch and what to buy. This year The Methodist Church in Britain are inviting us all to join their Christmas campaign to ‘hush the noise’ and to listen for the love song that the angels bring, here we are at the beginning of December already and signs of the joy of Christmas are popping up everywhere. But Christmas is loud, isn’t it? So much expectation. So many voices. Ts and every year. This initiative is not about being physically silent, more about finding spaces to step away from the loud expectation of the secular world and into spaces where we can pause, ponder and find peace.
We at Long Hanborough Methodist Church are delighted to join with this initiative and have plenty of opportunities for you to rest from the busyness of the season and spend some time reflecting on the love that is at the heart of the season. Hopefully there is something for everyone, ranging from our family friendly Christingle service and Nativity to our Empty Chair Reflections which will allow people space to remember lost loved ones. For more information of the other events planned, please see our Facebook Page or read on in the Hanborough Herald. One incredibly special event that we are hoping will draw your attention this year is our Community Carol Crawl. On Friday 20th December we will begin gathering at the Methodist Church from 5:30pm ready to walk the streets of our village singing traditional favourite carols. Everyone is invited to join us, either from the start or along the way as you see us passing. We will then arrive back to the church for mince pies and mulled wine (nonalcoholic) to finish the event. Festive head wear is essential – the sillier the better!
The Methodist Church is called to be a growing, inclusive, evangelistic and justice-seeking Church and we would really love to welcome new faces to our community events and our church building this season. We promise that a warm welcome awaits you.
Wishing you all a peaceful Christmas and abundant blessings for the new year.
Rev Sue Jacobs.
Hanborough ‘Forget-Me-Nots’ Memory/ Friendship Cafe
every first Tuesday in the Month 10am–12noon next one Tuesday 3rd December, then 7th January at Long Hanborough Methodist Church For people with memory loss and their carers
Contact: Judy Haynes email: jandg@cahaynes.plus.com or Tel: 01993 882379
December Services & Events at Long Hanborough Methodist Church
1st 10am Mr Andrew Maisey
8th 10am Mr Grahame Faulkner
15th 10am Family Christingle Service – all welcome
20th 5:30pm
Community Carol Crawl around the village all welcome (starting at the Chapel and stopping off at significant points around the village. Everyone is welcome to join in this fun event)
21st 10am–12pm Empty Chair reflection at the Chapel (the Chapel will be open for personal reflection ofthose who are not with us to celebrate Christmas)
22nd 6pm Rev Sue Jacobs Family Candle-lit Carol Service – all welcome
25th 10am Rev Sue Jacobs Christmas Morning family service – all welcome
29th 10am No Service
Throughout December our services will be following the ‘Hush the noise’ theme and everyone is more than welcome to join us for any of the services
Long Hanborough Methodist Church Women’s Fellowship Meet on 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at 2.00pm. All Ladies Welcome.
December
• 12th Christmas Lunch
There will be no meetings then until 13th February 2025. We would warmly welcome any ladies who would like to join our Fellowship whether regularly oroccasionally.
Long Hanborough Methodist Church is available for bookings
Our premises are disabled and dementia friendly. For enquiries and bookings please contact JudyHaynes on 01993882379
Scrabble Group
If you enjoy word games but don't have anyone to play them with why don’t you come along to our ‘Scrabble Group’ which meets on the 2nd Wednesday of the month in ‘the Milner Room’ at Long Hanborough Methodist Church, 2.00 – 4.00pm. We could offer other games as well if you would prefer.
We are a very friendly group and
Methodist Church January Services
5th 10am Ms Nunu Moyo
12th 10am Rev Sue Jacobs Covenant Service with HolyCommunion
19th 10am Mrs Julie Biggs
26th 10am Local Arrangement
have a lot of fun, we are not at all competitive. The cost per session is £2.00 including tea/coffee and a biscuit. Do come and join us, you will be assured of avery warmwelcome. Contact Judy Haynes 01993 882379 or email: jandg@cahaynes.plus.com
A warm welcome to all new residents
If you have just recently moved into Hanborough/Church Hanborough and have not yet received a ‘Welcome Pack’ do please let us know so that we can give one to you.
This is a scheme run by the Hanborough Churches and the pack contains information with contact numbers about things that go on in the villages and a map to help you find your way around.
Has a new family arrived near you?
We could love to welcome them and give them a ‘Welcome Pack’. If so, please contact Judy Haynes on 01993 882379 or email: jang@cahaynes.plus.com
Young Church meets at 10am, sharing a short time of worship in church before leaving for their own activities in the hall.
We warmly welcome you to our Church and pray you will find blessing in our midst and leave with the love, joy and peace of our risen Lord Jesus Christ in your heart.
All-Age Family Services every third Sunday of the month at 10.00am
• Something for everyone
• A warm welcome guaranteed
• Come and give us a try.
• Next one 15th December then 19th January
The Churches in Hanborough will be focusing some of their prayers on the Community and will be praying for a part of the villages’ community each month.
In December the focus of prayer will be on Freeland and in January Main Road and Witney Road.
This Christmas may we be reminded of the Hope, Joy, Love and Peace found in Christ.
Romans 15 v 13
Photo © T. Wyatt
Combe Mill
Blenheim Palace Sawmills, Combe, Oxon. OX29 8ET
Sun 1st December Christmas Fayre ‘NOT IN STEAM’
Annual Christmas Fayre 11.00am to 4.00pm.
Don’t miss out, come along and bring the children ‘Listen to a story with Santa’ get a present, (book a slot from Combe Mill Web Site) Browse the Christmas Market Stalls for a Christmas gift, enjoy a BBQ, Mulled Wine & Chestnuts, Tea Room Open, Raffle with fantastic prizes, Tombola and Gift Shop. Combemill’s blacksmiths will be in the Forge to make pokers, with VIEWING ONLY in the Mill, no machinery operating.
Blacksmiths items on sale, made by our very own blacksmiths, make a very popular gift for Christmas.
Combe Mill a late 19th Century Restored Water Mill on Blenheim Palace Estate by the River Evenlode. Come along and see the Blacksmiths in the forge you might just be able to make a poker. Dog on Leads most welcome. FREE ENTRY & CAR PARKING
Combe Mill cannot be held reasonable for attractions that cancel.
HANBOROUGH CHRISTMAS POST
Would you like us to help deliver Christmas cards to your friends and family in LongHanborough and Church Hanborough?
Post your cards in the box in The Cycle Shop & General Store on Main Road anytimefrom Saturday 23rd November to Friday 13th December and volunteers fromyour local Scout group will deliver them during the weekend of 14th & 15th December.
Suggested minimum donation 50p per card.
All proceeds will go to the 1st Hanborough Freeland Scout Group.
Thank you for your support! THANK YOU!
Photo © T. Wyatt
Hanborough & Freeland Church
Letter
from our Associate Rector
Dear friends,
God continues to break into people’s lives today!
As we approach Christmas, I enjoy reading the Gospel of Luke's chapters about Jesus' birth again. It's incredible to read how God breaks into the lives of ordinary people through angelic visits, dreams, and visions to prepare for the coming of the Messiah. Let me highlight three examples.
1. In Luke 1: 19-20, we see Godbreaking into ZechariahandElizabeth’s lives.
Zechariah, a temple priest, and his elderly wife Elizabeth could not conceive. One day, an angel appeared to him while serving in the temple and said, “Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to give him the name John.” Zechariah’s response was a bit muted (no pun intended). “How can I be sure of this? I am an old man, and my wife is well on in years.” Although his response was understandable, Zechariah got in trouble with the angel. The angel explained that the message came from God and brought good news. However, because Zechariah questioned it, he would remain silent and unable to speak until the baby's birth.
2. In Luke 1:30-32, we see God breaking into Mary’sand Joseph’s lives.
Here we have a young couple, betrothed but not yet married, probably getting ready for the wedding when suddenly an angel appears to Mary and says… “The Lord is with you."…"Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favour with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus.” Later, the angel also tells Mary that her relative Elizabeth is also going to have a child in her old age and is, in fact, already
six months pregnant. There was no email or social media in those days, so news travelled slowly!
3. Then, in Luke 1:39-57, we havethe meeting between Maryand Elizabeth.
I love this incredible supernatural encounter between these two ladies and their as-yet-unborn sons. In Luke 1:41 it says this…‘When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby (John the Baptist) leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice, she exclaimed: "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!’ Seeing the Holy Spirit at work in Mary, Elizabeth, and their unborn sons is amazing.
While these accounts are wonderful, it is easy to dismiss them by saying, “That was then, and this is now, and we are different.” However, God remains the same yesterday, today, and forever. The Holy Spirit is working today, reaching ordinary people through dreams, visions, and even visits from angels. This is especially true in countries where the church experiences persecution. Additionally, God is speaking through dreams and visions to people in our nation today. This Christmas season, why not take some time to read the Gospel of Luke and allow God to reveal Himself and His love to you through it? You might even ask God, the creator of the universe, to speak through a dream, a vision, or even an angel.
Blessings
Rev Mike.
1st
Hanborough & Freeland Church Services
Christ Church, Long Hanborough
at St Mary’s
St Mary the Virgin, Freeland
St Peter & St Paul, Church Hanborough
St Mary the Virgin, Freeland, Christmas Services
Carol Service Sunday 22nd December, 6pm Mulled wine and mince pies provided at the Oxfordshire Yeoman after the service.
Christingle Service Christmas Eve Tuesday 24th December, 5pm
Christmas Day Service Wed 25th December, 10am Joint
Christ Church, Long Hanborough, Christmas Services
Family Carol Service
Christingle Service
Christmas Day Service Wed 25th December, 10am Joint family service with St Mary’s, at St Mary’s, Freeland
St Peter & St Paul, Church Hanborough, Christmas Services
Reflections for Advent and Christmas
‘Do not be afraid … I bring you good news!’
Monday 2nd December, 2pm to 2.30pm Monday 9th December, 2pm to 2.30pm Monday 16th December, 2pm to 2.30pm Nine Lessons and Traditional Carols followed by mulled wine and mince pies served in the church.
Christmas Day Service Wednesday 25th December, 10am Family service of carols and communion
Hanborough Rail Station Car Park Issues
Hanborough rail station users are increasingly frustrated by the lack of car parking spaces at the Station carpark. I therefore conducted a survey at the station with help of a couple of local volunteers. The survey, which took place between 6am and 8:35am on several midSeptember mornings, was aimed to determine the rail users’ comings and goings and their journeys to the station.
We estimated that at least 500 passengers travelled from Hanborough Station on the first five morning trains, between 6:18 am and 8:35 am. The station is most busy on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings.
The 170 passengers interviewed were almost exclusively commuters and most were heading to London Paddington (62%); with 25% heading to Oxford. More than a third of the respondents had travelled from Witney and beyond (Burford, Carterton, Brize Norton, Bampton); another third came from Long/Church Hanborough and other nearby villages, Freeland, North Leigh and Combe; the rest travelled from Woodstock, Stonesfield, Wootton and Eynsham. Hanborough was the closest rail sta-
tion for virtually all passengers. Nearly 80% of passengers interviewed arrived by car, of whom 11% were given a lift. 10% of travellers cycled and 6% walked. Only 3 passengers arrived at the station by bus, which is not surprising given that only one S7 bus arriving at Hanborough Station between 6am and 8:35am does so at the right time before a train departure. Nearly half of passengers, who arrived by car said that they would consider coming to the station by bus, providing the bus was frequent and reliable. However, the other half stated that it would be impractical for them to use public transport.
By 8:35am the car park was nearly full. Many passengers who drove to the station to meet later trains reported regular issues with parking. Among those who used earlier trains many indicated that they choose travelling at earlier times to avoid issues with parking. They pointed out that there is nowhere else nearby to park and going to Oxford Parkway is a lot of hassle. Many indicated that parking problems add a lot of stress to their travels to work. Most commuters travel 2-3 days a week. The station
Woodstock Natural History Society
Woodstock Natural History Society offers a wide range of environmentally-related activities to suit both young and old. We welcome new members, and indeed have quite a few, probably because we cater for such a varied range of interests and are such pleasant people.
We host monthly meetings, to which all are welcome, at StHugh’s Hall, Hensington Road, Woodstock, from 7.15 pm until 9.00 pm on the second Tuesday of each month. Our most recent evening meeting, on Tuesday 12th October, saw DrDavid Duthie talk on “Protecting Global Biological Diversity: an Insight into the UN Environment Programme”
We would love to see you at one of our events, and very much hope that you will want to become a member. For a copy of our programme please email contactwnhs@gmail.com, please also check this column regularly, and turn up at one of our Tuesday evenings. We are also keen to help young people into an appreciation of nature, and will do what we can to assist schoolteachers wishing to embark on relevant projects.
Stephen Vickers (Dr), Meetings correspondent, WNHS
facilities were shut, the toilet has been apparently out of use for a very long time.
So, what can be done to improve the situation? An alignment of bus schedule with train departures and arrivals would help, but the logistics to deliver this could be challenging considering the long bus S7 route from Witney through Woodstock and Kidlington to Oxford. A short distance shuttle bus connecting the station with the rest of Hanborough, Freeland, North Leigh and Eynsham and in the future with Eynsham Park and Ride could help. However, the expansion of the 246 spaces carpark at the station is essential, considering the large size and rural character of Hanborough Station catchment area. This matter needs to be addressed with urgency.
The issues with Hanborough Station Carpark and the results of the survey will be communicated with GWR, OCC and Stagecoach.
Contributed by Dr Lidia Arciszewska, District Councillor for Hanborough and Freeland Ward Lidia.Arciszewska@westoxon.gov.uk
Saturnalia
Itsfinallyhereit'sChristmastime, Allmyshopping'sdoneonline, I'vegotthetinsel,I'vegotthebooze, Itstimetolightthefestivefuse.
Thetreeislookingsuchatreat, Somanygueststomeetandgreet, Turkey,sproutsandChristmaspud, Hallsbedeckedjustliketheyshould.
I'mtrackingSantaonmyphone, Isthathissleighorjustadrone? Electriccandles,MorecambeandWise, Paperhatsandmoremincepies.
Severalmilesofribbonandstring, SladeandShaky,DeanandBing, Whatdidyousay?Ididn'thear. Whosebirthday?Thistimeofyear?!
divalde
Hanborough Nature Recovery Network
The Importance of Insects
by a HNRN committee member
My friend Lizzie and I saw a butterfly when we were chatting in her garden the other day. It was one of the brightly coloured ones, fluttering around her late flowers. It got us both reminiscing about those long hot summer when we were kids, you know the ones, where there were hundreds of butterflies around the buddleias and they were called butterfly bushes for a reason.
My teenage daughter was listening. “I’d love to see that” she said. For her peer group its normal to see a butterfly a few times a year. When I was her age the things were everywhere. And I loved them bright wings spread in the sun like velvet. And the moths, huge fat fluffy creatures, bumbling around the lights and settling on your finger exhausted. There used to be a whole lot more insects. Remember having to clean the splats off the windscreen after you’d driven anywhere? If you’re under 30 you probably won’t but if you’re older or have driven in other countries you will.
I said this, and Lizzie was underwhelmed. “Honestly”, she said, “what with money, the amount of pressure at work, and trying to get the kids through schoolwork I’ve got no time to worry about the insect apocalypse. They’re way off my priority list.”
And she’s got a point surely. Right now, today, when bills have to be paid, deadlines met, homework done, sports kit to be washed and none of us seem to have any time, why should we worry about insects?
Well, while they may have sports kit today, our children’s and grandchildren’s lives will be less rich, less beautiful, less pleasant if we don’t get them on the priority list somewhere. Most plants are pollinated by insects and that includes food crops. We rely on pollinators for about 30% of our food production. People tend to think of bees when they think about pollination, but much is done by other species like beetles. We rely on the services of these creatures to
keep our gardens and allotments productive and beautiful as well, and to keep our soil healthy both for farmers and for woodland and natural spaces.
Mini-beasts are also food for some of the nation’s favourite animals. Want hedgehogs in your garden? You need beetles. Want robins and blackbirds? You need worms. Want bats? You need moths. As we all know without their natural foods these creatures we all love to see are in decline.
But facts and figures aside, as we are all beginning to realise the natural world is vital to our own wellbeing, not just in the future but right now. Being in natural spaces bring a host of benefits to us. To our mental health, our physical health and our sense of place and belonging. Social prescribing in nature is on the increase in the NHS and the benefits are clear. We cannot preserve this for our children without looking after the tiny creatures that make it all happen. Without them there can be no leafy woodlands to walk in, no birdsong, no summer afternoons in the meadows with the soundscape of bees. We pay to listen to that on apps like Calm, but imagine a world where that was the only way to hear a meadow afternoon, or birdsong?
It does not have to be this way. Together we can change our little corner of Oxfordshire and improve biodiversity. There are lots of projects under way locally, the Eynsham Nature Recovery Network, the Wychwood Project and Gro-Wet are doing wonderful work in the area and we can all do our bit as a village. I’m not saying its easy, but it is possible.
Hanborough Nature Recovery Network is planning to set up a scheme for 2025 asking residents to pledge to stop using pesticides on their gardens. As a scientist who learned about pesticides at university 30 years ago, I have never used anything but household products like eco washing up liquid for really severe pest issues on a food crop, or eco slug pellets on a food crop. Everything else is usually left to its own devices and while I may get the
odd tattered leaf, I also see a new world of fascinating creatures. Sawfly larvae sitting like little question marks on a half-eaten leaf. Balls of spiky black peacock butterfly caterpillars on a nettle like mini-Halloween decorations. Hedgehogs sneaking up and knocking over my hot chocolate mug on a summers evening to steal the dregs.
If you’re interested in being part of this scheme and would like more information, do get in touch via the email below or ask on the Facebook group (search Hanborough Nature Recovery Network). And to help, HNRN is looking for area champions to bring people together to find ways to increase biodiversity in the village. If you’ve any knowledge or experience with pesticide free gardening we’d love to hear from you so please contact.
Litter picking and hedge planting
We have planned some litter picking sessions for early 2025 and the dates and meet up points are below:
• Sunday 12th January 9.00 am at the Pavilion
• Saturday 15th February 9.00 am at the Recreation Hall
• Sunday 9th March 9.00 am at the Pavilion
We have litter picks and bin bags. Please bring gloves and hi viz if you have them. These are usually very productive sessions (and good fun too) and it is a great feeling afterwards that you have done something really worthwhile.
We are also hoping to do some hedge planting in the parish during December. If you would like to help please let us know.
Wishing everyone a very happy Christmas and peaceful New Year. If you are interested in getting involved in HNRN/litter picks or hedge planting please contact lucy.tritton@hanborough-pc.gov.uk
Dr Neil Rust Retirement.
After 30 very happy years in Eynsham Medical Group I will be retiring at the end of March 2025. It has been a privilege to work with such a wonderful community and I’d like to thank everyone for their part in this. In spite of the sometimes challenging circumstances of work in the NHS, we have been able to build an excellent team who I know will continue to offer high quality care to you all.”
Thank you.
Dr Neil Rust
A date for your diary
Hanborough Mammoth Garage Sale will be on 17th May 2025. Look out for further details in the next Herald.
The Rotary Club of Witney
We really need your help! If you would like to make new friends, contribute and give back to your community we are sure you would enjoy the sociability and activities Witney Rotary Club can offer.
Rotary is a global network of 1.4million members who unite to take action to create lasting change across the globe and locally.
We are always keen to help within our local communities both financially and with practical help.
Our next big event is the Switch On of the Christmas Lights in Witney on Friday 29th November. Come along and maybe have a chat to us (we are the ones in the yellow tabards!). Every year, we raise thousands of to support organisations and charities in Witney and the surrounding villages.
If you are interested in joining us, or just finding out more about we do, visit our web site: www.witneyrotary.org
Woodstock Music Society Christmas Concert
Weber: Der Freischütz Overture Mass in E flat
Handel: Christmas Music from The Messiah
Choral and orchestral music for the Christmas Season by Rutter, Blake, Parker & Rathbone
Woodstock Music Society Choir & Chamber Orchestra
Conductor: Paul Ingram Friday 13 and Saturday 14 December, 2024, 7.30 pm
St Mary Magdalene Church, Park Street, Woodstock OX20 1SJ
Tickets: £14 in advance or £15 at the door, full time students £5, accompanied children under 16 free from The Woodstock Bookshop
email:
concerts@woodstockmusic.info book online: www.bookwhen.com/woodstock
see our poster online: www.woodstockmusic.info/ next-concert/
Woodstock StrokeClub
Stroke survivors and their carers welcome
Come and join us for a friendly chat and a cup of tea/coffee at The Community Centre, New Road, Woodstock, OX20 1PB
We meet every other Tuesday from 10:30 to 13:00 hours
Full programme of talks & activities Wheelchair accessible access Contact Mike on 07432 704042 or e-mail: mikeshipway71@gmail.com for further information
Woodstock Tennis Club
There’s an exciting new development in our local sport. This year Woodstock Tennis Club secured permission from WODC to install lights on its courts. They were switched on for the first time in September and are proving a big hit.
They’re not floodlights, but an innovative tennis court lighting system called Tweener, recently developed in France and taking off all over Europe, where it’s been installed at some of the most prestigious venues. Instead of mounting floodlights high on columns, the Tweener lights are simply fitted with brackets along the existing court fences.
The installation had a near-zero carbon footprint, energy usage is 50% less than floodlights, and being fixed right down at court level there’s minimal light spill. And the Tweener system makes no visible change to Woodstock Tennis Club’s exceptionally attractive setting: when it isn’t on, you wouldn’t know it was there.
The playing quality is excellent, and many members much prefer Tweener to floodlights. In terms of playing time, lighting is transformative for the club. Those who work during the week can now play all the year round, the club’s excellent coaching for juniors and adults can continue right through the winter, and families who’ve been able to play together only at weekends can now play as a family in the early evenings.
The club’s social tennis has always been thriving in the summer. Its popular Club Nights on Tuesdays and Thursdays can now run all the year round. New members are always welcome. Full details about the club and its coaching, team play and social play, and how to join, are on the website: www.wbtc.org.uk. (Membership and/or coaching might make a great Christmas present –or fulfil a New Year’s resolution!).
Santa is coming to Town!
This year Santa will again be seen in and around the villages in early December.
In recent years Santa has been at static sites near the Eynsham Library and in the Square. This year’s locations will be shown on Eynsham Online. Look out for this information coming soon.
Santa is looking forward to seeing the children in and around the Eynsham area. He and his Elves will be collecting money for Charity and as we know not everyone has cash available for door knocking, we ask that you think about offering donations via the payment information posted along with the details of dates and times which will also all be shown on “Eynsham Online”
Santa and the Rotary Club of Eynsham wish you all a very Happy Christmas!
Age UK Oxfordshire
Age UK Oxfordshire is a local independent charity supporting older people in Oxfordshire. We have a variety of services available to help you to live independently and live life to the full. Our services range from support at home to helping link you into your community, from foot care clinics to exercise classes. We offer a free information and advice helpline, as well as one-to-one support if you have been a victim of a scam. To find out more about how we can support you, please visit www.ageuk.org.uk/ oxfordshire, call 0345 450 1276 or email contactus@ageukoxforshire. org.uk
Oxford Flower Club
October was our Annual General meeting. After the Administration Team had covered accounts and events for the year, we welcomed a guest speaker.
Michael Bowyer MBE gave us a fascinating talk about three remarkable women. Artist Rachel Ruysch, paper collage and embroiderer Mary Delany and ceramic artist Clarice Cliff. These three inspirational women were linked with a deep love of nature. It was interesting to hear how these very talented women , through adversity, had achieved so much in their lives.
The Administration Team discussed what was scheduled for the forthcoming year. We look forward to a range of professional demonstrators, workshops, a trip to Salisbury Cathedral for the ‘Spirit of Water’ flower festival and a summer afternoon tea.
If you’re looking for a new interest and would like to know more about joining Oxford Flower Club, call Karen on 07967 555750. We meet on the fourth afternoon of the month in Cumnor Village Hall. Annual membership is £40 or visit asa guest for £8.
Witney Music Society December Concert
The final Witney Music Society concert in 2024 will be given by the Pelléas Ensemble, an acclaimed flute, viola and harp trio. Their programme will include works by Bartok, Rameau and Debussy. The concert is at 7.30 pm on Friday 13th December.
The first concert in 2025 will be given by the renowned vocal ensemble The Gesualdo Six. Their programme celebrating Epiphany in carols and songs through the centuries is at 7.30pm on Friday 10 January. Both concerts will be at High Street Methodist Church, Witney. Tickets (£18, £1 for under 19s) will be available at the door from 7pm or in advance online.
For more information, please telephone 01993 898020 or visit the Witney Music Society website www.witneymusicsociety.org.uk
Merry Christmas
On behalf of the Herald Committee, Iwould like to say a big thank you to the Hanborough Fireworks Team for another wonderful display this year. And to wish all our contributors, advertisers, delivery team, and KMS Printers, a very Happy Christmas
The Editor, Hanborough Herald.
U3a Woodstock &District
The Woodstock and District u3a speaker meeting in November gave us Vivien Sieber speaking about Kino and Kinder – her family’s journey in the shadow of the Holocaust. A sombre recounting of the survival of her grandparents and Vivien’s own journey in researching that evolving story. Her book Kino and Kinder is available from usual sources.
Whilst the speaker meetings are a chance to meet other members, our Interest Groups are the main stay of the u3a movement. Members who are willing to share their knowledge and skills will meet as an Interest Group and develop those links – i.e. Art, Recorders, Photography, Board Games, Foreign Language, etc., with most sessions taking place during the daytime. Do check our website for further information; although the website is currently being redeveloped – all should be ready by the turn of the year.
Our next speaker meeting on December 5th sees a visit from Gloria Camino who will show us the glories of Machu Picchu, the great Citadel of the Incas in southern Peru. Her talks cover fascinating aspects of her research, including origin, urban planning and design, the connection with astronomy and Inca religion.
Please join us (visitors £2) at 1.45 for the 2pm talks at St Hugh’s Centre, Hensington Road, Woodstock OX20 1JL
On 2nd January we have a visit from Yanto Evans of the Royal British Legion – The talk will be on his experience in the Falklands War in 1982, where he served with the Parachute Regiment.
Sue Blackshaw Chair Woodstock
& District u3a
Eynsham Country Market
in Long Hanborough
Our market takes place every Thursday in Eynsham Square from 9am until 10.30am. We have organised a programme of Saturday markets for 2024 which run from 9.30am until 12pm in the Square and also the Recreation Hall Long Hanborough. We look forward to welcoming you to our special events:
• Sat 30th Nov, Christmas Market Long Hanborough
• Sat 7th Dec, Christmas Market Eynsham Square
Follow us on Facebook for updates on our events. We are always looking for new producers, so if you can bake, make preserves, make homemade crafts or grow your own veg and fancy joining a friendly team, why not get in touch for more information?
Email eynshamcountry market76@gmail.com
St. Peter’s RC Church, Eynsham
Parish priest Father Mark Lagorio can be contacted by phone on 01865881613 or email stpeterschurcheynsham@ gmail.com
Address: Abbey Street, Eynsham OX29 4HR Phone: 01865 881613 Website: www.stpeterseynsham.org. uk
The church is open for Public Masses on Saturday at 5pm and Sunday at 10am. For any Weekday Masses, please see the website.
In Treatment
(an unlikely tale of cosmic significance)
from divalde
'Good morning, come in and take a seat er Mister Earth.'
Mister Earth, silver haired but still spritely closed the door and sat down in the chair opposite the vastness of an empty desk and the slightly vague figure behind it.
'Should I call you Mister Earth or would Planet be alright with you?'
'Planet is absolutely fine,' he said
'Well thank you for making the time, Planet. I must say you have already taken the hardest step by agreeing to see me; by admitting that you require treatment.'
Planet nodded in appreciation. The Man Behind the Desk consulted his computer screen.
'Just a few formalities before we begin. Normal protocols you understand. May I have your age?'
'Four and a half billion give or take.'
'Splendid, and what gender do you identify with?'
'How many are there now?' Planet asked 'er let me see…114 and rising.'
'Put me down for all of them.'
'And religion? There was at the last count some 4000.'
'Again all of them.'
'Next of kin?'
'Hmmm a few siblings live locally, although we've never actually met you understand. We seem to move in different circles.''
'Thank you.'
The Man Behind The Desk turned his most beneficent gaze upon his patient. He was it seemed business-like yet caring.
'…now perhaps you would like to begin by telling me when you first experienced these …what did you call them…panic attacks.'
'Well I suppose I have always suffered with my nerves. My birth was pretty violent and there have been repercussions ever since…you know plate tectonics, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes that sort of thing. But I was able to bear up. They were to my mind just growing pains, quite natural actually.'
'Yes I see a lot of this across the known universe and as you say it is by and large a very natural form of evolution.'
'But I suffered from my first panic attack some 6 million years ago. It was as if there were voices, angry thoughts running through my head, counter to my own. Saying things I didn't understand. I began to panic.'
The Man Behind The Desk nodded and made a few notes.
'And did you have anything like this in the eons before?'
'Not so much, I mean I occasionally suffered from bouts of depression and listlessness when we went through another mass extinction but I tended to rally as soon as I saw how resilient I can be. But this is different. It's been brewing for a while now. You see for 90% of the time I'm happy just whirling around, moseying through the universe, each day much like the rest but then I am suddenly overwhelmed by angry thoughts which make me feel very uncomfortable and confused. I'll be honest with you Doc, there are days when I feel like just dropping out of orbit and heading straight for the sun.'
'Hmm…and how are you physically?'
'Okay I suppose apart from a few aches and pains. Age I suppose.'
The Man Behind the Desk made some more notes and then formed a pyramid with his fingers, under his chin. If they were fingers and that was his chin.
'Interesting Planet. I wonder whether you are familiar with the term biome.'
'I don't think I am Doc.'
'Well it is a community of lifeforms that assemble in the gut and which, we scientists now realise, dictate our physical and mental wellbeing. These lifeforms are quite insignificant under a microscope and yet together are the difference between leading a healthy life and one fraught with anxiety. I am wondering whether your biome is in a state of imbalance? Tell me Planet, how are the elements? I'm not referring to the new science of the Periodic Table etc, more the classics, Fire, Water, Air, Earth?'
'As a matter of fact I am experiencing problems with the oceans, the atmosphere, mining fossil fuels, forest fires. Do you think there is a connection between these and the biome Doc?'
'I certainly think it's a possibility. You see these physical issues can be quite damaging to your health hence your bouts of confusion. The anger of course may stem entirely from these lifeforms. Science tells us they can experience terrible rages and outbursts of prolonged violence for no obvious reasons.'
'Can we not calm them down with wisdom and solace in the joy and wonder of existence?'
'If only things were that simple,' said the Man Behind the Desk, 'quiet logic and appeals to the wisdom of higher beings may actually be having a negative effect…creating excuses for division and hence a more volatile existence.'
'Crikey, so what do you recommend Doc?'
'May I prescribe this?' From an ill-defined cupboard, he produced a phial of clear liquid; 'just take a drop of this once every morning.'
'It's always morning somewhere Doc…'
'Ah yes, good point. Perhaps take it when it's morning for the most active part of your biome. Now let me consult my records.' He thumbed through an enormous tome some billion pages long. He read very fast and nodded in satisfaction.
'In a case such as yours, and believe me I've seen it all before, you might start taking your tincture when its morning here…can you see?' he turned the book and Planet leaned across.
'Ah yes…'
'This is where the majority of your harmful creatures live.'
'Well thank you doc…
Planet took the phial, slipped it into his coat pocket and stood up. He walked to the door but as he placed his hand on the handle he turned to The Man Behind the Desk.
'Doc, how long will it take for me to feel better?'
'Just give it a few days and things should have settled down. This is a particularly effective medicine and should reduce these creatures to an absolute minimum. It may even wipe them out altogether if their proclivity is to destroy their host. It's really down to your biome.'
Hanborough Welfare Trust
Hanborough Welfare Trust (HWT) was set up many years ago to help those in need in the Parish. Its Trustees are aware that this help may be particularly needed during the current Covid-19 crisis.
It only has a limited amount of funds, but requests are invited at this time by any who live in Hanborough and may consider themselves and their need appropriate. Please get in touch by emailing or telephoning Gill Breakspear on 01993 883914 gillbreakspear@btinternet .com or Rev Nigel Knights Johnson on 01993 359572 nigelknightsjohnson@gmail .com
Freeland WalkingGroup
The group meets on the 3rd Wednesday of the month for a walk of about 5 miles followed by lunch at the place, usually a Pub, where the walk begins. Sometimes the walks, led by a club member, are local but at other times we travel by car to the Pub from which the walk begins and where we have a meal together afterwards. If you would like to join us on a walk please contact me at hjdalton43cv@gmail.com so that I can put you in touch with the person leading the walk that month and they can send you details of the walk, when to meet and a menu so that you can preorder your lunch. New members very welcome.
Janet Dalton
Inspector Woolf will return in February with a tale called the Double Helix
OFTSED URN: 134440
Hanborough Pre-School is held in the Pavilion at Hanborough Playing Fields. It is a fun and happy place welcoming children 2-5 years of age. Government funding for 15-30 hours is available for children aged three years or over and 15 hours for some two-year-old children. We provide a safe and friendly environment for children to learn through play with a strong emphasis on outdoor education. We are committed to Safeguarding and all our staff and volunteers hold a DBS check and are employed through a safer recruitment programme.
Current Session Times
Morning (8:45am-11:45am) or afternoon sessions (12:15pm-3:15pm)
Lunchtime Club 11:45am-12:15pm
What have we been up to?
We have started our new term off with a new exciting topicReach for the stars. The children came back stepping into Space. The children have really enjoyed becoming astronauts and exploring the different planets. We have enjoyed lots of messy play and some super science experiments.
To support our topic, our committee organised for the Wonder Dome to visit the setting. We were really lucky to take a look into space- it was incredible to see the planets close up! Thank you !
Forest School has been exciting to visit each week as the season continues to make changes to our area. We have enjoyed rebuilding our dens and we are beginning to use tools to help us put our dens together.
Availability
Availability- We are now full for this academic year and 2024-2025 but we have some spaces for 2025-2026 and we have now opened up bookings for 2026-2027.
Please get in touch via e-mail or our Facebook page.
On Monday 11th November the setting lay at wreath at the memorial to thank and reflect those who fought for our country. We also had a member of the military come in to talk about their role looking after our country.
Thank you to everyone who came along to our annual Halloween Disco. The children all looked very spooky in their costumes! A big thank you to our fundraising team for organising.
PROBLEM FEET?!
NAIL CUTTING. CORNS. CALLOUS. HARD/DRY SKIN. FOOT MASSAGE.
TREATMENT IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWNHOME!
Sharon Davies MCFHP/MAFHP 01993 891132
OVER 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE
REGISTERED MEMBER OF THE BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF FOOT HEALTH PROFESSIONALS
Rob Atkinson
Member of the Chartered Institute of Building
General Repairs –Carpentry – Decorating Plumbing – Fencing
Prompt
Based in Stonesfield email: robatkinson.ajdw@gmail.com
• Domestic electrical repairs and installations
• Commercial electrical repairs and installations
• Solar panel systems [PV]
• Battery storage installations
Unit 1, Cotswold business park, Range Road, Witney, Oxfordshire, OX29 0YB.
Veg-out
www.instagram.com/vegoutrecipes/ Sustainable Christmas dinner?
As a plant-based diet becomes more popular food companies are responding and all the major supermarkets are announcing their Christmas range of plantbased foods.
A traditional Christmas dinner can be enjoyed with ready to cook plant-based Turkey Crowns, Beef Wellington, Pigs in blankets and juicy marble steaks. Or for those who prefer just veggies you’ll find several prepared dishes to reduce the time spent in the kitchen like chestnut and mushroom wreath or a mushroom Wellington centrepiece. You can also enjoy plant-based smoke salmon and cream cheese or plant-based pork pies and a range of delicious dairy free puddings and deserts.
Generally, plant-based meat alternatives are either made from wheat gluten which is called seitan, soy, peas or simply vegetables.
Wheat Gluten is made by washing flour several times until all the starch is removed and you are left with gluten which is high in protein. Flavourings and other sources of protein can be added to the gluten before it is shaped and cooked. The texture of Seitan when cooked is very similar to meat. Yellow split peasare a common source of pea protein used in plant-based meat alternatives.Pea protein is a popular choice for meat alternatives because it's nutritious, sustainable, and versatile. Meat replacements can be useful when you are wanting to reduce your meat consumption but still want to enjoy your favourite dish, just swap the animal protein for plant protein.
Many of the products in the supermarkets for Christmas and more will be available to enjoy after Christmas encouraging people to try Veganuary, see Viva! viva.org.uk for more details.
Or if you prefer to cook your own there are lots of recipes online, instagram or email me and I’ll share the recipes I have found.
Carole vegoutrecipes@btinternet.com
“The UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has urged a switch to plant-based diets as the single most important shift individuals can make to halt the course of climate warming”
So, this Christmas why not give the earth a gift and try eating plants not animals?
“The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.”
Robert Swan
