Launton Lines Issue 271 May 2023

From the School Easter Egg Hunt March 2023

See pages 14-15 for a report of the Hunt. For safeguarding reasons we can not print photos of the event but here are some of the things in the School Hall.

Spring lambs and their mothers in Manor Farm barn Photo by Ella Rayner

The front cover is from the April Scramble at Bicester Heritage, held on St George’s Day. How many cars can you identify? There is another photo on page 17. Cover designed by Matt Hill. Photo by Matt Hill

The Editor writes …

Now back in Launton and it is very refreshing to be in a European spring all the grass growing so fast and so green: grass in Cape Town tends to be plastic (green) or natural (brown), or on golf courses. And the bluebells, daffodills and apple, cherry, pear, and thorn blossom are stunning.

Speaking of May blossom, the ex-Launton Boy (pages 39-41) writes about the saying “Ne’er cast a clout until May is out” and tries to work out the real meaning. And he tells of something I recall doing as a child in Kent - eating the “Bread and Cheese” from the thorn bushes in the hedgerows.

The cover this month features the scene at the April Scramble at Bicester Heritage, with another photo on page 17. The centre spread (22-23) has a match report of semi-final success for one of the Launton Boys Under 12’s teams - and a team photo. I hope we can report their Final success.

There is much on the Coronation of Charles III with St Mary’s events on pages 19, 21 and 24, and a photo of the new ‘topper’ on the post box by Costcutter on page 10. There are two AGMs this month: FoLPH (page 20) and the Plotters (page 28) both have 18 May for their meetings.

Pages 34-35 report on N2O (Laughing Gas) cylinders discarded along Station Road, with a statement from PCSO Louise Beaumont.

Robert Cornford

Launton Village Support: Contact Details Group email: village.help@launton-pc.gov.uk PHONE Numbers: 9:30am to 5:00pm

07522 231 100 - Janice | 07305 303 889 - Jane Olds (Launton Parish Council) 01869 241755 - Lesley | 07921 392 201 - Abi Dowman 01869 242685 - Nick Cherry Pharmacy Runner

Launton Lines

A monthly newsletter for Launton. Published around the first of each month by the Launton Community Communications Group © 2023 Launton Lines email: launtonlines@launton.org website: https://launton.org/launton-lines/ The Launton Lines Committee 2022-23 Chair: Jon Spinage | Secretary: Toby Aspel | Editors: Robert Cornford, Matt Hill | Treasurer: Carina Collins Associate Editor: Kathy Gilbert | Distribution: Shirley Johnson | Advertising: Jenni Walker

Contact the Parish Council Council Clerk | Mrs Jane Olds Address | 13 Oak Close, Bicester, OX26 3XD email | clerk@launton-pc.gov.uk Phone | 07305 303 889

To book the Parish Hall Contact: Joan Packer Phone: 07922 042 133 Parish Hall Committee: Christine Massey; Audrey Deeley; Lynne Harper; Joan Packer; Simon Turner; Robert Cornford

LIGHT UP A LIFE

Would you like to sponsor an evening’s floodlighting at St Mary’s Church in memory of a loved one, to give thanks for the birth of a child, or to celebrate a baptism, birthday, or wedding?

A minimum donation of £10 is suggested which can be Gift Aided.

Please contact Joan Packer on 01869 241694 by 20 May 2023 for entry in the June 2023 issue of Launton Lines.

May 5 | Sponsored by Bob Roberts to celebrate the birthday of his father Cyril Roberts May 6 | To celebrate the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III May 30 | Sponsored by Clare Farmer.

Always in my thoughts. Lovingly remembered, my daughter Louise and sister Wendy

Launton Parish Council Meeting held on Thursday 6 April 2023 at 7:30pm in Launton Parish Hall

Councillors present Mr Andrew Briant, Mrs Abigail Dowman, Mr Ed Sanders (Vice Chairman), Mrs Lesley Thompson, Mr Simon Turner (Chairman), Mrs Jaqueline Webber Apologies None In attendance The Clerk, Mrs Jane Olds; Cllr Angus Patrick (CDC); 2 members of the public (1 from 9:12pm) East West Rail No representative was able to attend.

The Council had raised villagers’ concerns with the EWR Team about vehicles continuing to turn right into the A1 Compound rather than going round the Charbridge Lane roundabout as signposted.

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If anyone has any queries, please contact East West Rail directly at publicinformation@ewralliance.co.uk or call the 24 hour helpline at 03457 11 41 41.

Reports from District and County Councillors Councillor Patrick gave a brief report. He also informed the meeting that he would not be standing for re-election in May. No report had been received from Councillor Corkin (OCC).

Elections Following an uncontested election, the Council has six Councillors coming into office on 9 May. We look forward to welcoming back the following:  Andy Briant  Abigail Dowman  Ed Sanders  Lesley Thompson  Simon Turner  Jackie Webber to the Council. We have one vacancy which will be decided by cooption at a future meeting.

If you are interested in joining the Council to become one of the Parish voices of the village, please do come along to the Parish Council meeting on 11 May (note it is in a new venue - The School Hall). More information is available on the Parish Council website at https://www.launton-pc.gov.uk/becoming-a-councillor/ The elections for one of the three District Councillor seats (currently held by Angus Patrick) will still take place on 4 May in the Parish Hall.

Finance The Finance Report is available on the Parish Council website.

Planning All planning applications, which include the links to Cherwell’s Planning Portal, are put on the Parish Council website when they are received (www.launton-pc.gov.uk in the Agenda and Minutes section).

If any villager has concerns or comments about a planning application, they are welcome to come along to Parish Council meetings to bring Launton Lines May 2023 | Page 5

them to the attention of the meeting. Villagers are also welcome to contact Councillors or the Clerk to make comments.

Guidance on how the Parish Council is able to respond is available on the Parish Council website: https://www.launton-pc.gov.uk/planningapplications Parish Hall Four potential contractors visited the Hall on 15 March and the architects were now awaiting the tenders.

It is hoped that Gigaclear will be able to install broadband in the Hall as part of their implementation programme.

Road Matters OCC Highways has acknowledged that the Bicester Road was in a dreadful state and authorised a number of ‘24 hour’ repairs. Further repairs will take place to the other deteriorating holes over the next few weeks; a date for the full repair of the road is still to be confirmed.

You will have seen the large matrix signs around Bicester about SSE works. This is for the installation of a new 33 kV cable from the electricity sub station on Skimmingdish Lane to supply the North West Bicester development. Work will continue around the ring road with traffic lights and will finish with a temporary closure of Howes Lane from 24 July until the end of October.

Speedwatch Our Speedwatch Co-ordinator would love to hear from you if you are able to help join the team - with the weather warming up, now is the perfect time to get out and help out.

Contact speedwatch@launton-pc.gov.uk for more information.

Dog Bin Provision Councillor Briant had met with the CDC Street Cleansing Supervisor to discuss the bins. The Supervisor has confirmed that all the bins are wellused, but that the Council should look at the location of the bin on the Yew Tree side of the Playing Field.

Annual Parish Meeting Thanks to those who came along to the Annual Parish Meeting on Thursday 20 April… (the minutes are still to do!)

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Agenda items and dates of the next meetings The next meeting will be on Thursday 11 May (note the new date) in the School Hall (note the new venue), starting at 7.30pm. The entrance to the School Hall is through the playground gates from the Parish Hall Car Park, then follow the building round to the right. If you’d like to chat with a Councillor, do come along after 7.15pm.

We are trying to reduce our printing and paper use, so if you would like hard copies of the agenda or any of the meeting papers, please let the Clerk know well before the meeting. The agenda and papers will be available to view via the data projector during the meeting.

Suggestions for agenda items for the 1 June meeting (back in the Parish Hall) need to be with the Clerk by 18 May, and items for the 6 July meeting by 22 June.

If you’re not signed up to our mailing list to receive news from the Parish Council, you can find a sign up form at the bottom left hand menu of the Parish Council website at www.launton-pc.gov.uk/

Please Note

The Parish Council has a new contact number.

You can now call or text the Council on

07305 303 889

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Launton Lines May 2023 | Page 7

Sue May: 2 August 1943 - 21 January 2023

Sue was the youngest daughter of Hilda and Cliff, born on 2 August 1943 at Little Shardeloes, a wartime hospital in Amersham. Sue loved many things, but her first love was found in childhood, when she fell in love with her ponies and horses, and riding with the local hunt.

As a teenager Sue moved to The Crooked Billet where she started her first job in banking in Wendover and Aylesbury, and where she met her lifelong friend Jo. Sue’s life was forever changed at The Crooked Billet where she met John, and their story began. Their hair-raising adventure of life and love is a story for the history books, filled with adventure, unrelenting joy, and a happy marriage that lasted for 58 years. In May 1966 they began their biggest adventure in life when they started their family, and they welcomed their first child William. Soon after came their cherished daughter Lucy, and some years later the family was completed with the arrival of their younger beloved son, Charlie.

As fun-loving party-goers and big entertainers, John and Sue often hosted the most memorable parties at their home in Launton, and in their one-of-a-kind Dome. From Caribbean-themed summer parties to fancy dress, Sue was at the heart of many celebrations and happy memories. She was known for her fantastic cooking and her love for swimming: many will remember her wonderful food and her daily laps of the pool.

As a travel-loving family, they traipsed across America making fond memories from the East Coast to the West Coast.

The adventures were never in short supply, and free-spirited Sue later set off for the south of France where she and John would go to buy their cottage.

Their home in Oms, near Perpignan, was built several years later and remains a place that is at the centre of so many happy memories for all of her children, grandchildren, and treasured friends who are with us today. After 12 years of happiness in France Sue and John returned to the UK to build their fifth home.

They lived here happily, surrounded by family and friends, for eight more years.

Fighting until the very end, Sue passed away peacefully in her home, among her loved ones, on 21 January.

Sue is an adored wife, a cherished mother, an admired grandmother, and an incredibly special friend. Artistic, intelligent, and friendly to all, her compassion knew no bounds, and she was a gentle and caring woman who never failed to make someone feel loved or cared for.

Sue will remain an example to all of us that a life is made not by what we get, but by what we can give to others.

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Recent deaths in the village

Launton Lines tries to record significant events in the village. We try to list births, marriages, civil partnerships, and deaths as we get information. To have a listing included, contact launtonlines@launton.org or drop a note in at 36 West End. There is no charge for such reporting.

Daphne Bellman, a former Headmistress at Launton School 19661984, died on Sunday 23 April in Wyndham Hall Care Home. She was 99 years old. We hope to include a fuller notice in a future issue.

Launton Watercolour Group

The Watercolour Classes in May will run on Monday 15 and Monday 22 in the Parish Hall from 2pm. There are no classes on these mondays in May - all Public Holidays: 1, 8, and 29. David Meeks is the tutor. The cost is £8 per session.

If you would like to join the classes, please email the following: Paul.Ebberson@gmail.com

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The new Coronation Post Box Topper from the Bicester Yarn Bombers

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Launton Village Players

Awards for Hickory Dickory Dock Panto!

We are delighted to announce that we won 4 awards in the Oxfordshire Drama Network (ODN)’s Winter Festival for our 2023 panto Hickory Dickory Dock! The awards are: Technical Award (this includes everything from lights and sound to staging and set). Music Award Front of House Award Magic Moment Award – this was awarded for the penguin scene – in the judges’ words: “they just kept on coming”!

There was also a special mention for the mice dancing with the Pixie of the Clock and we were also shortlisted in three categories: Costume award Chorus award Choreography award Well done to everyone who was involved and a big thank you to Painting & Decorating our fantastic audiences who Specialist supported us and helped us raise £7,500 for Nai’s House.

R J WAKELIN

Singing at Launton Grange At the end of April, we were invited to sing at Launton Grange Residential Home – we love going there and seeing the smiles on everyone’s faces. We are getting to know the residents and loved singing a mixture of panto songs, musical theatre songs and of course some old favourites. continued on pages 12 and 13 

INTERIOR - EXTERIOR PRIVATE - COMMERCIAL

Contact Mobile: 07947 822794 email: rjwakelin@outlook.com

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Summer Variety Show: Come Rain or Shine Rehearsals have now started for our 2023 summer show Come Rain or Shine, (see page 43) which will feature music, dancing, songs, and comedy sketches all about our favourite topic of conversation: the Great British Weather!

The show is suitable for all ages, including families, and will include tap dancing, solos and group singing of some well-known weatherrelated songs, and even a performance of a poem from the nineteenth century that was last performed in Launton in 1882 (according to January’s Launton Lines)!

There will be two performances on Saturday 15 July and Sunday 16 July at 2.30 pm in the open-air garden of Hare Leys Farm, Launton.

Tickets are available now from www.ticketsource.co.uk/lvp Adults’ tickets cost £10 and childrens’ are £5. Refreshments are available to purchase when you buy tickets, and on the day. If you are unable to buy online, call us on 07864 715708 for cash and cheque purchases.

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We’re raising money for two organisations - one international, one very local: UNICEF and the Bicester Food Bank.

We hope the sun will shine but if you do come along, please bring your own chairs or rug to sit on, as well as sun hats and sun cream, or raincoats and wellies. There is plenty of parking available and we do have space for disabled parking and a few spare chairs for anyone who cannot bring one, as well as toilet facilities. We also have a wet-weather back up plan in case the good old British weather isn’t on our side!

If you have any questions, please contact us on 01869 277625 or by email to tickets@launtonvillageplayers.org.uk We do hope you will be able to come and enjoy an afternoon’s entertainment in a beautiful garden and help us raise money for two fantastic causes.

The LVP Team

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The annual Easter Egg Hunt returned to Launton on Sunday 26 March 2023

Despite heavy rain earlier in the day and a lingering cloud in the afternoon, the weather remained dry and the children thoroughly enjoyed hunting amongst the puddles. Each ticket holder collected a combination of red, blue, and green stones that were then exchanged for Easter eggs.

The children also had the opportunity to hunt for the elusive golden stone which could be exchanged for the coveted gold prize, and 4 silver stones that yielded 4 silver prizes.

Attendees enjoyed some fun and games with activities like ‘Guess the name of the teddy’, ‘guess the number of eggs in the jar’, 'hook a duck', face painting and stalls selling cakes and pre-loved books.

The Easter bunny made a guest appearance to the delight of our participants and promised to return to the village on Easter Sunday.

This fun filled family day was made possible by the heart-warming amount of support we received from the Launton community.

On the evening of 17 March our team of parent and student volunteers collected more than 100 ‘big’ and 150 ‘medium’ boxed eggs, and lots of smaller eggs. We also received generous cash donations which allowed us to buy a further 100 boxed eggs.

The coveted gold prize was very kindly donated by Stone Lily hairdresser and Justin Bucknell Electrical (both local businesses) and consisted of two beautifully displayed Easter hampers.

Local business ‘Blooming Balloons’ donated a wonderful giant bunny balloon structure filled with treats as a prize for one of the games.

The 4 silver prizes were bought with money donated by the residents of the village. Stone Lily and Costcutter also kindly sold tickets in advance of the event.

The Friends of Launton School cannot thank the residents of the village enough for continuing to support this event with donations, the volunteers who helped before and during the event, and everyone who Launton Lines May 2023 | Page 14

attended on the day. These events enable us to raise important additional funds for our small village school. The generosity of the community is outstanding, and we hope that everyone who attended had a wonderful time. We look forward to seeing you next year.

Friends of Launton School PTA Trustees There are some photos on page 2 of this issue

100 Years Ago: from The Bicester Advertiser May 1923 11th May THE SCHOOL HONOURED. Bookbinding and basketwork are included in the school’s handicraft curriculum. Launton was called upon to send a specimen of their bookbinding to Cheltenham for a handicraft teachers’ conference. Mr Parsons, the headmaster, has been informed that the Launton exhibit has been selected by H M Inspectors for exhibition in London. The school is to be heartily congratulated on its distinction.

18th May LOST on May 11 on the footpath between Launton and Bicester, child’s large TEDDY BEAR. Finder will be rewarded on returning same to Mrs Albert Ayriss, Launton.

25th May FOOTBALL There was a rival attraction to the sacred concert on Thursday evening when a football match was played between the married and single. The Benedicts won by three goals to two.

Wheel Chair available for loan in Launton The family of a former editor of Launton Lines has given a wheel chair to be available for short-term use by residents of the village.

If you think you could use it, contact the following:

Editor@Launton.org or phone 01869 241883 Launton Lines May 2023 | Page 15

Launton WI Meeting April 2023

This month 21 members met to celebrate the 82nd birthday of Launton WI which started back in 1941.

We had no speaker this month but sat down to enjoy a fish and chip supper, with delicious puddings after supplied by the committee, for which many thanks.

Before the meal we had the business end of the meeting, and have a new and exciting programme for 2023/24 to look forward to. We had two April birthdays, Sue and Sherrie, who received cards.

A few of us attended the group meeting this month at Langford WI which was a good evening with a speaker, refreshments and a chance to meet members from other WIs. We also enjoyed a meal at The Bull this month for a social get together. We are now looking forward to our day trip to Stoke Bruerne Canal Museum at the end of the month and hope for good weather.

We ended the evening with a raffle and guess the picture quiz which was good fun. We also look forward to the return of our President Gaye and thank Helen for deputising for the last couple of months. Our next meeting will be on Thursday 11 May at Heating & Plumbing Services 7.30pm in the Parish Hall, which Installation - Maintenance - Servicing will be the time to discuss Resolutions for the Annual Domestic Oil Meeting of the National Federation of Women’s Institutes Natural Gas (NFWI), where we will be Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) discussing Clean Rivers for People and Wildlife.

We always welcome any new members to our friendly group.

Simon Nash

07483 864 571

Jane Leach

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Crowds gathered at Bicester Heritage for the second Scramble of the year on 23 April. The cover photo this month is from the same event.

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News from st mary’s ChurCh serviCes aNd eveNts iN may 2023 You are most welcome to join the May Services and Events listed here.

All except 18 May are in St Mary’s

Services

7 May

8.00am 11.00am

14 May 18 May

6.00pm 7.30am 7.30pm

21 May 28 May

11.00am 11.00am

BCP Holy Communion As part of our celebratory Coronation weekend All welcome Family Service Please refer to the Facebook page for St Mary’s Church for full details of the weekend events Evensong Ascension Day Holy Communion and Breakfast at St Peter’s Bucknell Ascension Day Service at St Edburg’s Church Bicester Morning Prayer Holy Communion

Please check on the Facebook page for St Mary’s Church Launton to see the latest information or contact one of the Churchwardens at St Mary’s Joan Packer Celia Manderson

j.packer779@btinternet.com celiamanderson@aol.com

01869 241694 01869 571735

  

The Community Café is open on Tuesdays through May, but will be closed on 30 May for the school half-term holiday.

There are two sessions: 9am-11am for young children and their parents/carers; and 2.30pm-4.30pm, which is livelier.

Do come and join us at the Café!   

Please see details of our planned Coronation Celebrations on pages 21 and 24 of this issue of Launton Lines.

It should be a great weekend in honour of such an historic event.

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Launton Over 60s Club Report for April 2023 After my last report, towards the end of February, we heard the sad news that Mary, from Bicester, had passed away. She had been a loyal member for a very long time, and we will all miss her.

Our Annual Meeting on 15 March went smoothly and everyone voted for our committee to remain the same for a further twelve months. It all seems to work well so why change it!

Edwina was away on a cruise when our meeting on 29 March was held so I took over to give out any notices and birthday cards and to draw the raffle tickets. Donna then expertly called the bingo for us.

On 12 April we had our Easter lunch - ham and egg salad and a hot cross bun. The tables were beautifully decorated by Tina and small Easter eggs were given to everyone by Rosie. As well as the usual raffle and bingo, we had a Grand Easter Raffle, with prizes of biscuits, chocolates and Easter eggs donated mainly by Tesco and Co-op stores.

We are grateful for their support and also for that of the Launton Parish Council and Launton Friends of Launton Parish Hall Sports and Social.

(FoLPH) Our bingo jackpot has still not Annual Meeting been won and now stands at over and report back to Launton £20. There was a near miss at the is on Easter meeting when Pat, from Thursday 18 May 2023 Bicester, called the line in 21 at 7.30pm numbers! Unfortunately that was in Launton Parish Hall just one too many - better luck next time.

Come to hear about Our meetings for this month are and comment on on 10 May and 24 May, both the plans for the Hall starting at 1.30pm in the Playing and bring ideas Fields Hall, and we are always for future events very happy to see new members. and fundraising.

Pat Court | Membership Secretary | There will be wine & nibbles, too! 01869 244900 Launton Lines May 2023 | Page 20

St Mary’s Church Coronation Celebration

4th - 8th May Schedule of Events Thursday 4 May Entries can be dropped off in the Church between 4.00pm and 6.00pm Friday 5 May

Entries can be brought along to the Church and set up between 6.00pm and 8.00pm

Sunday 7 May

Church open until 4.30pm Services 8.00am BCP Holy Communion 11.00am All Welcome Coronation Celebration Service

12.30pm-4.30pm 2.30pm-3.30pm

Monday 8 May

Viewing of the Exhibition Complimentary tea, coffee and cakes

10.30am-4.30pm Viewing of the Exhibition 10.30am-12.30pm Complimentary tea, coffee and cakes

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Launton Athletic Under 12s beat the odds to secure Knockout Plate final place

Summertown Stars Galaxy U12s 4 (5) vs Launton Athletic U12s 4 (5) | Launton Athletic win 3-1 on penalties In a game full of twists and turns, Launton Athletic came from behind three times to secure a win on penalties against Summertown Stars Galaxy and advance to the Knockout Plate final.

Heading into the game Summertown had been tearing up the league since mid-November, unbeaten in their last 10 games and winning the last 9 straight by a combined scoreline of 63-19, including a 10-1 demolition of Athletic in early January. Led by their superstar left winger who has scored an incredible 51 goals this season - including 5 in the teams’ previous two meetings - Athletic were going to have their work cut out.

Athletic went into the game on the back of a set of mixed results in recent weeks, though their play overall has been improving steadily through the season. Confidence was high as they were buoyed by their cup quarter final result three weeks ago where they put up their best ever result in beating Botley Boys and Girls 9-1 at home to set up the clash with Summertown.

The game was played on Cherwell School’s 3G pitch in wet conditions, but Athletic got off to a strong start, with three chances in the first 10 minutes, including a shot which cannoned back off the crossbar from captain and central midfielder FM. Athletic employed a man-marking system to limit Galaxy’s best player and though it was working well, he broke free midway through the first half and scored a brilliant solo goal to put them ahead. The lead was doubled soon after in a similar fashion but Athletic kept their heads up and pulled one back with FM scoring a fine header from a CA corner.

Athletic got back on level terms with five minutes left as striker TC beat a couple of players in the box before sliding the ball across for CA to score with a first-time left-footed finish. It was looking like the teams were heading into half time level but Galaxy took the lead again in injury time as a shot from the edge of the box ricocheted into the bottom corner.

Into the second half and it didn’t take long for Galaxy to extend their lead again, as miscommunication in Athletic’s defence allowed a simple finish, to go ahead 4-2. But then Athletic gathered themselves again and kept pressing forward. They made it 4-3 with another header from FM from a CA corner, stopping low and looping the ball over the Galaxy keeper. Athletic got back on level terms again as substitute JR followed up a shot spilled by the keeper and nicked it past him to make it 4-4. The final few minutes were tense but both teams held out and we went to extra time.

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In the first half of extra time, Galaxy were on top and took the lead for a third time as a corner from the right fell to a Galaxy player who tapped in to make it 5-4. The second half of extra time was frantic as Athletic sought a third equaliser, and they pushed everyone forward with the game on the line.

Inspiration hit with under two minutes left as FM completed his hat trick with a shot from outside the box that flew over the keeper and in off the bar.

The celebrations were wild as the bench ran onto the pitch to join their teammates, and there was barely any time left to restart before the referee below for full time and penalties.

The penalty takers were selected, Athletic won the toss and got to go first.

FM fresh from his last-minute heroics stepped up and buried his penalty high to the goalkeeper’s left. Then in a moment of huge drama, the Galaxy player stepped and smashed their penalty back off the post. Athletic were two kicks from victory. LN then stepped up for Athletic and confidently slammed his penalty home, again high and to the goalkeeper’s left. Galaxy’s player then stepped up knowing a miss would mean defeat and scored, though Athletic goalkeeper DRP was close to saving it. That then left midfielder GL to seal the game for Athletic. With all the pressure on his shoulders, GL stepped up and confidently dispatched the game-winning penalty, sealing a three-time come from behind win and sending Athletic into the final. Cue wild scenes from both players and parents who had been brilliant in supporting the team throughout the match.

Athletic will face Witney Vikings from the league above in the final at Oxford City on 7 May. We’ve had some good games against Witney in the past, including a 3-1 win at home earlier this season before they got promoted. It will be a tough test but one Athletic will relish in their last game in 9-a-side before progressing to 11v11 next season.

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Come and see our Coronation Celebration Exhibition (entry is free) Please join us to see the display of the King’s interests in the Church on Sunday 7 May and Monday 8 May and see the variety of fascinating entries.

There will be a display from the Historical Society, a photo showing a memory of meeting King Charles, a wet-felted beach picture, as well as a Lego® castle! There will also be pictures of trees from children of Launton School. Do come along and see the indoor “forest”, just to mention a few.

During Sunday afternoon and Monday morning we will be serving complimentary tea and coffee along with a slice of cake, so we hope to have time for socialising over a cuppa!

This is a community event so we are looking forward to seeing you during the weekend. For times when the Church will be open and when refreshments will be served please see our schedule on page 21.

Join us for our Special Coronation Celebration Service On Sunday 7 May we will be holding our Coronation Celebration All Welcome Family Service at 11 am when we will be celebrating the King’s Coronation. The service will include prayers, a reading and a children’s activity and several favourite hymns, as well as singing the National Anthem of course. Everyone is welcome so do come along and let’s fill the Church with voices singing.

If you need more information, or have a question, please contact us by using this email - events@stmaryslaunton.org.uk Many thanks and we look forward to seeing you!

The St Mary’s Church Coronation Celebration Team.

Launton Lines May 2023 | Page 24

The Addams Family comes to Bicester - on stage BCOS (Bicester Choral and Operatic Society) are excited to bring you their latest production - The Addams Family - in this their 60th anniversary year. Join the weird and crazy world of The Addams Family, featuring all your favourite characters - Gomez, Morticia, Wednesday, Uncle Fester, Pugsley and Lurch, and more.

Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, is all grown up and has a shocking secret that only Gomez knows. She’s fallen in love with a sweet young man from a respectable family. With his cherished Morticia in the dark, will Gomez manage to keep his daughter’s secret until the two families meet for a fateful dinner with hilarious consequences? Join them all for a heart-warming story of love, family, and friendship… with a twist.

From the team that brought you Chess, Evita, Carmen, and last year's amazing production of Little Shop of Horrors: they are back, bigger, funnier and spookier than ever.

The show will be performed on 1, 2, and 3 June starting at 7:30pm each evening, at The Cooper School Performance Hall. See page 17 for more details. Tickets are now available in person from Coles Books or online from www.TicketSource.co.uk/bcos Ian Muddle Launton Lines May 2023 | Page 25

A Vet’s Voice: Lucky by name ...

Lucky the cat started life in a farmyard in a village not far from Bicester. He lived the outdoors life but had the run of the place. Though he was well fed, he also had the option of “mousing” to supplement his diet! There were no comfy sofas or indoor windowsills for Lucky, but he could sit himself in a soft bale of straw or lie in the sunshine whenever he wanted. Life was good for Lucky.

Then one day about 5 years ago, the farm was sold, and the farmer moved house to the other end of the village. Don’t worry, Lucky came too and his owner did her best to acclimatise Lucky to his new residence. However, despite keeping Lucky in for several weeks (as per veterinary wisdom), Lucky repeatedly chose to walk himself back to the farmyard, which was soon to become a housing estate.

Poor old Lucky was confused and disorientated. He’d lived for around 15 years as an outdoor cat and was struggling with his move “up the road”. But then a kind lady named Rita, who was friends with the farmer, offered Lucky a home. No one knew how Lucky would take to this option ... would he like living in a house? How would he cope with living with other cats and a dog or two?

I’m happy to say that Lucky never looked back. He moved in as though he’d always lived in this house. He was soon to be found snuggling up with one of the other cats, gently grooming each other as though they’d grown up together. The dogs were no bother either. He made himself at home on the sofa or curled up by the fire. The wily old farm cat was instantly a happy contented house cat!

We saw Lucky at the practice occasionally over the years to deal with bad teeth or a tummy upset. However, last year things changed a bit for Lucky.

Understandably, due to his age, he had developed bad arthritis of his elbows and struggled to jump up onto windowsills. During his examination we discovered a very slow heart rate and an abnormal heart rhythm.

Commonly, a cat’s heart rate would be 150-200bpm in the slightly stressful environment of the vet’s consultation table. For Lucky it was more like 80, and there were pauses in the normally steady rhythm of the beats. This created concerns about Lucky’s heart and our cardiac vet Rachel performed a heart scan. Unfortunately, this showed that he had cardiomyopathy with 3rd degree heart block. This meant that his heart muscle was thickened and diseased causing poor function; this would lead to a backlog of blood trying Launton Lines May 2023 | Page 26

to pass through his heart. On top of this the signalling system through the heart wasn’t working properly, so his heart was unable to speed up to improve blood flow.

Lucky carried on his comfortable life despite his severe heart disease. He still slept by the fire and spent time with both his human & animal companions. He had injections to help his mobility and had a great quality of life until he rapidly developed a large build-up of fluid in his belly.

Lucky’s heart could no longer manage and had tipped into congestive heart failure. The fluid was a direct consequence of his heart disease and there was little else to do but to gently put him to sleep to prevent any further suffering.

Lucky was a gentle soul who enjoyed human company. He always seemed calm and happy; never stressed or concerned by coming to the practice.

He made the most of his early life as a happy go lucky farm cat and equally enjoyed his change to an indoor pampered puss! He gave unconditional love and companionship and I guess that’s why we have pets.

Enjoy your pets,

Jason Williams | Bicester Vets

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Launton Lines May 2023 | Page 27

Launton Plotters 2023 Annual General Meeting The Launton Plotters are holding their 2023 AGM on Thursday 18 May at Launton Allotments

Bring and Share Some refreshments will be provided but it would be lovely if we could share some of the early produce as in the Rhubarb & Custard Cake and Asparagus Tartlets provided by Plotters last year.

Please bring your own seating Look forward to seeing you there.

Launton Lines May 2023 | Page 28

150 Years Ago: from The Bicester Herald 1873 9th May MARRIAGE May 3, at Launton Church, by the Rev J C Blomfield, rector, Mr John Penn, mason, Blackthorn, to Annie, daughter of Mr John Cross, Folly Farm, Launton.

16th May A CHILD BURNT TO DEATH AT LAUNTON This melancholy accident was referred to in our last impression. On Saturday last, May 10, an inquest on view of the body of the deceased, Thomas Smith, aged 4 years, son of John Smith, labourer, of Launton, who was so seriously burnt on Wedneday, May 7, that death ensued on the following Thursday evening, was held at Mr William Parrott’s, at Launton, before W Brunner, Esq, coroner, when the following evidence was taken.

Hariett Smith deposed - I am the wife of John Smith, of Launton, labourer. The deceased, Thomas Smith, is my child. He was 4 years old last Wednesday morning. About seven o’clock I took another of my children, 3 years old, who had fallen down-stairs, into a neighbour’s house to see her and ask her what to do. My husband was gone to his work. I left the deceased and his two brothers, one 6 and the other 8 years old, in bed, and my baby in my bed. A few minutes after I was at my neighbour’s, and heard a child scream. I ran out and saw the deceased just inside the door of Mrs Butler’s house, which is next door but one to mine. The deceased had nothing on but his night shirt, and that was on fire round the neck. I had my little girl in my arms, and I put her down and wrapped my shawl round deceased, and took him into my home. I then saw that deceased was burnt very much about the neck, chest and under his arms. All the [illegible] part of his night-shirt was burnt. Mr Drinkwater’s assistant saw the deceased about half-past nine o’clock, and Mr Drinkwater saw him afterwards. The deceased died about eleven o’clock on Thursday night. There was not much fire in the grate on Wednesday morning.

The deceased was a healthy child, and was accustomed to come downstairs to be dressed. The jury returned a verdict of “Accidental Death.”

Continued on page 30  Launton Lines May 2023 | Page 29

 Continued from page 29

The favourite pony, the property of Mr Samual Baker, of Bicester, was on his farm at Launton, kicked by his nag, on Friday May 9, whereby the pony’s leg was broken, and it was considered best to kill it.

30th May F J Staples-Browne Esq of Brashfield house, Caversfield, has sent to the Launton Cricket Club, of which he is president, a complete set of cricketing necessaries.

Launton Provident Society’s Festival and rural sports are fixed for Tuesday June 10.

Valid from Monday 1 May to Wednesday 31 May

Valid from Monday 1 May to Wednesday 31 May

[Historical note: the marriage of John Penn and his wife on 3 May 1873 resulted in a large family. Three of their sons followed their father into the building trade.

The most notable was Lewis, who founded the company which bore his name for very many years (and was eventually bought out by the Jewson company). The Lewis Penn company was responsible for building several houses in Launton, and also the Parish Hall.]

Launton Lines May 2023 | Page 30

For Sale Freedom Trail Slumber Camp Bed Single size | Unused When open and assembled: 190cm x 63cm x 42cm When folded and packed: 92cm x 19cm x 9cm There is a blow up bed to use with the Camp Bed. All together - £40 Contact main phone: 01869 241110 Contact follow up phone: 01869 244850

Grange Mews News May 2023

Commercial Offices, Industrial Units and Storage for Lease The editor of Launton Lines gave a heartening good news story in the last edition about the Spring Litter Pick removing rubbish in the village.

I can report that there were two ladies working on Station Road in their own time for the week preceding the organised group.

Congratulations to Julie and Avril who quietly and diligently cleared several bins full of rubbish - and not to forget our Councillor Lesley who reported three dumped truck tyres which CDC removed.

However, I will have to pay to remove the thirteen fridge freezers dumped at Grange Mews, along with the latest collection of two armchairs and a mattress.

The discarded scaffold poles and a radiator are already in the metal skip.

Thanks to landscaper Mark Blake and Jenny who planted the trees, shrubs and hedging to replace where EWR “devegged” the 30-year-old species-rich hedging at Folly Cottage.

They could certainly show the EWR sub-contractors doing other hedging around here a few things.

We let offices and industrial space and can be found at pacox@grangemews.co.uk and our website www.grangemews.co.uk Phone 01869 252846 or 07711 778 230

Launton Footpath News

Lesley has attended the Parish Path Warden (PPW) workshop which proved beneficial in terms of formal content and provided the opportunity to discuss topics of mutual interest with other wardens and OCC staff.

As we reviewed plans for a circular walk that we plan to run in the summer we realised that part of it is in Buckinghamshire. In an exercise of empire building we have obtained agreement from Bucks CC to include the relevant paths in our work programme. Specifically, we plan to check and install way markers, trim brambles and generally bring these paths up to our standard. Anybody who would like to help with these projects is more than welcome to join, just contact us at lesley.thompson@launton-pc.gov.uk Our overall ambition is to ensure that all the paths in Launton Parish are easy to follow with good signage and no hedgerow hazards. It’s clear that most frequent users of these paths are dog walkers as many give the opportunity for dogs to run freely. However, it is important for these dogs to be kept under control to prevent them from attacking animals in the fields, hedgerows and woodlands.

Sadly, there have been two incidents in the past month when dogs have chased and killed wildlife. We would ask the dog walkers who use the footpaths to be mindful of other animals close to the paths and to control their dogs to prevent a repetition of these incidents.

Bob Roberts and Lesley Thompson

Launton Lines has a new permanent Treasurer After some months, Launton Lines and the Launton Community Communications Group are pleased to announce that the search for a permanent treasurer following Michael Stack’s retirement through ill health is close to ending.

A volunteer (Samantha Collin) came forward but felt she couldn’t commit the amount of time needed. Fortunately another person has volunteered: welcome to Carina Collins who moved into the village last year. Now we have to get all the official details sorted and get her authorised to run our online and earth-bound accounts with Lloyds Bank.

The current acting treasurer is overjoyed and relieved.

Launton Lines May 2023 | Page 32

Launton Lines May 2023 | Page 33

Station Cottage on Station Road Launton: a report and update Since East West Rail (EWR) changed the road layout near Station Cottage to close the level crossing and build the new road bridge for Station Road to cross the new railbed, it has created a ‘dead end’ road by Station Cottage, where the old road used to go over the crossing.

This area sees a lot of visitors, and a huge amount of rubbish dumped along the verges and in the ditches. A villager spent a few hours over Easter weekend collecting the rubbish which was then disposed of in our domestic bins. Thank you to Jules for this.

PCSO Louise Beaumont writes on page 35 about Bicester Police being aware of this area and some info about the Nitrous Oxide canisters that are popular among the visitors to that area and other areas in our village.

She said that if you see anyone using this substance, to phone the police, as they are gathering intelligence about it.

Lesley Thompson

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Launton Lines May 2023 | Page 34

A Statement from PCSO Louise Beaumont The Neighbourhood team are aware of large amounts of discarded Nitrous Oxide canisters on Station Road, Launton by Station Cottage.  The canisters are often referred to as Balloons, or Nos, or Laughing Gas.  This is a psychoactive drug and is covered by the 2016 Psychoactive Substances Act, which means it’s ILLEGAL to give away or sell it.  Like drink–driving, driving when high is dangerous and illegal.

If you’re caught driving under the influence, you may receive a heavy fine, driving ban, or prison sentence.

Nitrous oxide can be habit-forming, mainly because of its short-lived effect and ease of access. Death can result if it is inhaled in such a way that not enough oxygen is breathed in.

The location will be patrolled regularly.

Some of the canisters that Some of the bags of litter and rubbish collected over Nitrous Oxide comes in the Easter weekend near Station Cottage Launton Lines May 2023 | Page 35

Guided Walks in the Island Pond Wood There are two guided walks in May. They are initially for members of the Friends of IPW, but if there are spaces left they’re open to others.

For information email fipwlimited@gmail.com A membership form is on page 33 of this issue if you want to join.

The resident goose in the Island Pond Wood Photo by Ella Rayner

House maintenance   Repointing  Internal and external decorations Patios  Decking  Fencing  For a personal service, call Peter N Southam 01869 278333 07721 633 220 peteroofer@aol.com Launton Lines May 2023 | Page 36

Launton Historical Society - April 2023

On Thursday 30 March the Launton Historical Society met to hear about illnesses and cures of the 18th Century, in a talk entitled Can Onions Cure Earache? by Melanie King. We were shocked to hear about the effect of poor diets, vermin, the effect of clothing riddled with fleas and the failure to dispose of human and animal waste on the 18th Century population. If you were struck by illness or injury in the late eighteenth century, you would most likely have been referred to Scottish physician, Dr William Buchan’s Domestic Medicine, a worldwide best seller, written in 1769 and, as a result, you may have found yourself administering urine to your ears or drinking a broth made from sheep’s brains.

Burns were a very common cause of infection and death and Buchan’s suggested remedy of holding a non-blistering burn to a fire or even applying salt or alcohol were shocking for the audience to hear. At this time broken bones were frequent occurrences and treatment included the binding of the limb and bed rest for about four weeks. More than one break in a limb could only be treated by amputation. A copy of Dr Buchan’s book was even taken to Pitcairn Island with the Bounty mutineers led by Fletcher Christian.

It was common for villages to have a wise woman who might be practised in the use of herbs in treating various conditions. If they were unfortunate enough to fall out of favour they might be accused of witchcraft! Even today, we still use folk medicine in its original form, for example: the dock leaf, which grows around nettle patches, is crushed and used to cure their stings. It is an ancient cure passed down from generation to generation.

By the time you read this, we will have heard Pat Tucker, our local historian, speak about Finding Launton’s Past and the history of the Historical Society. Our next speaker is Sean Callery, on Cotswold Cornucopia on 25 May at 7.30pm in the Parish Hall.

For further enquiries about the Historical Society, please contact cathyprocopiou@hotmail.com Kathy Gilbert Launton Lines May 2023 | Page 37

Not the Grange Mews News, but a letter to Launton Lines from Peter Cox

Very quietly, and with no ribbon cutting or fanfare, the Grange Farm PRoW, or footpath to the new footbridge over the new railway, has been opened. This gives a wonderful springtime walk among the trees.

However, it is disturbing to know that three dogs recently eliminated a domesticated fowl at Grange Farm.

It is just as alarming to know that two dogs, a ginger/red and a black, on Sunday 15 April were loose among the trees and hunted a small immature fawn and killed it.

All dogs, even lap dogs, naturally hunt and in the breeding season in particular it is only fair to let the wildlife breed and live in an environment undisturbed by others. All dogs should be under control especially when accompanying walkers in the countryside.

Peter Cox, Folly Cottage and Grange Farm Mews

The Launton Spring Fair at The Parish Hall The FoLPH Spring Fair on 30 April was held in unseasonable weather (it wasn’t raining and the wind was not chill) so part was outside and part inside.

There was the expected range of jam and marmalades and chutneys, a good choice of cakes, and plants and seedlings.

“Grow a Sunflower” had over 30 entries.

Refreshments in the Hall did good business and the raffle and tombola were busy.

Special thanks to Loes Koorenhof and Elsie the Gypsy Cob from Equilore (and supporter Mika) for their patience in offering children (and adults) photo opportunities but no rides (we weren’t able to sort out the insurance - sorry!)

We will report on the money raised next month.

Launton Lines May 2023 | Page 38

Memories of an ex-Launton Boy This month the ex-Launton Boy recalls the spring of his youth, from new sandals to eating the “bread and cheese” from the new leaves on the hawthorns in the village. Of course, he remembers the 1953 Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, and looks forward to that of Charles III. Finally, he asks if Launton children “dance the Maypole” (he hopes they do).

Lent is done and Easter has come and gone for another year. No new sandals this year, unlike each dawning of Spring when I was a child growing up in Launton. Every Easter without fail, my brother Cliff and I would have a brand-new pair of sandals for the coming Spring and Summer.

And it was always around that time of year when one was unsure whether to go out with a coat, a raincoat or something lighter as we experienced the March winds and April showers all designed to bring forth May’s flowers. An absolutely fabulous time of year for me! It was at that time of year, because of the changing and uncertain weather, that we would hear people quoting, “Ne’er cast a clout til May is out.” I still find myself using the adage at this time of year, but I have never really understood the original meaning. Are we saying “Don’t put away winter clothes until the month of May is over, done and dusted and we have entered June”, or does it refer to the May blossom in bloom, otherwise known as hawthorn? Personally, I’m inclined to “May blossom” blooming in all its white and fabulous glory, by which time the temperature will have risen noticeably, and it gives the impression of spring and summer combined lasting that much longer than if you were to effectively wait until June to change to summer clothes.

I have had to resort to plastic ties for tying in my runner bean poles this year, having used garden twine last year only to keep finding my poles waving like lilies in the breeze. “Why?”, you may be thinking.

Quite simply. because the garden birds were cleverly coming along and with their industrious beaks untying the knots to steal the twine to line their nests. And all that after I have regularly fed them through a variety of bird-feeders… That’s gratitude for you!

Launton Lines May 2023 | Page 39

This years’ Spring is to be one with a significant difference, in the coronation of our King Charles III. I have, through the Royal British Legion, been given the opportunity to be securely accommodated among the throng of onlookers in London to watch the King and his entourage go fleetingly by, but I have declined the offer on the grounds that after waiting a very long time in one space, the glimpse would be very brief; you can’t guarantee the weather and there will be no big screen to see it live from within the Abbey, so I’ll stay home instead and get an up-to-the-minute overall view of the procession and the full length of the service on the television.

Although I remember the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, we had no access to a television in Launton of our own and so made do with a tremendous gathering on the Cross on the opposite corner to the Bull Inn where there used to be a large expanse of grass in front of, as I recall, the village reading room. Front bedroom windows throughout the village were draped with Union flags of all sizes and all we children received a Coronation Mug. I saw at the beginning of April that Charles was visiting an army unit of the Corps of Royal Engineers, having agreed to take on the mantle of Colonel-in-Chief of the Corps, the position previously held by our dear late Queen. Not only that, but he was also wearing the Corps tie on the occasion. I cannot begin to express the sheer delight among both currently serving Sappers and we veteran Sappers at the fact that he is now officially our new Colonel-in-Chief.

Having a conversation a few days ago with some of my REA comrades, we were wondering whether Prince William will undergo a similar investiture ceremony to that which his father was subjected when he was invested as the Prince of Wales. I know Charles is keen to cut back on a number of things, even down to the fact that for his coronation the route to be travelled will be significantly shorter than that which was taken by his mother.

I know there are those among us who would prefer to be Republicans (we tried it once and it didn’t succeed), but I am and always have been a staunch Royalist, whilst at the same time believing that we should Launton Lines May 2023 | Page 40

dispense with the royal ‘hangers-on’, only retaining those who are willing to put in hours of work needed to justify the Royal Family’s place in our nation. With that in mind, I hope you all enjoy the Coronation and wish Charles and his Queen Consort a long and happy reign.

I was sorry to read of the recent death of Michael Tams. How the memory fades after so many years. I had completely forgotten about the family until I read last months’ Launton Lines, and then I remembered. The strange thing is, I cannot put a face to Michael, nor his mother, but my minds’ eye paints a picture of his father, whom I remember used to get about on his bicycle. As hard as I have tried, I cannot put a face to Michael’s sister, Doreen either. I remember them living in Sherwood Close, either next door to or very close to the Ayres family on one side and Christine Massey and her parents on the other. I could be wrong of course, but that is what my fading memory is telling me.

With May rapidly approaching, I am wondering if Launton School still dances the Maypole? This was something we used to do every year under the guidance of Mrs. Freeman, the teacher whom we all loved. If, as in so very many places now, they no longer do so, it would be fabulous if it were re-introduced. The children would love the spectacle of moving in and out of each other around the pole, weaving lovely patterns with the lengths of coloured ribbon. What a spectacle in the village were it to be conducted on Coronation Day. A final thought, does anyone in Launton these days do what we used to do at this time of year? When the hedgerows began to shoot their very young leaves, the hawthorn I think, we kids would pinch off the young green shoots and pop them into our mouths to chew and swallow. We used to call it ‘bread and cheese’ and they tasted delicious. If you haven’t tried it, give it a go whilst the shoots are still young and tender enough.

Keep healthy and stay SAFE! Tony Jeacock MInstRE | The ex-Launton Boy | May 2023 Launton Lines May 2023 | Page 41

Diary Dates: May 2023

In the current situation, it is difficult to be specific about village events. Listed are those we know are planned - but check with organisers nearer the date if you plan to attend.

Monday Tuesday

1 Spring Bank Holiday (May Day) today 2 Rubbish Collection: garbage bin | Community Café, Parish Hall: 9am-11am; 2.30pm4.30pm | Rock Chorus, Parish Hall, 7.30pm Thursday 4 Elections for CDC, Polling Station at The Parish Hall. Open 7am-10pm Saturday 6 Coronation of Charles III Sunday 7 St Mary's Church, Holy Communion (BCP), 8am; Family Service, 11am | Weekly Quiz at The Bull, 8pm Monday 8 Coronation Public Holiday today Tuesday 9 Rubbish Collection: recycling and garden bins | Community Café, Parish Hall: 9am11am; 2.30pm-4.30pm | Rock Chorus, Parish Hall, 7.30pm Wednesday 10 Over 60s Club Meeting, Sports & Social Hall, starts at 1.30pm, ends about 3.30pm Thursday 11 Parish Council Meeting, Public Session 7.15pm, Council Meeting 7.30pm. Change to School Hall | WI Meeting: Resolutions for the NFWI, Parish Hall, 7.30pm Friday 12 SCOTS Meeting, The Bull, from 5.30pm Saturday 13 Island Pond Wood, Guided Dawn Chorus Walk, starts at 5am | Launton Boys Football Summer Tournament U7s, U9s, U11s, U13s and U15s at the Playing Fields, 9am - 5pm Sunday 14 Launton Boys Football Summer Tournament U8s, U10s, U12s, U14s and U16s at the Playing Fields, 9am - 5pm | Trinity Camerata Concert, St Edburg’s Bicester, 4.00pm | St Mary's Church, Evensong, 6pm | Weekly Quiz at The Bull, 8pm Monday 15 Watercolour Art Class, Parish Hall, 2pm-4pm Tuesday 16 Rubbish Collection: garbage bin | Community Café, Parish Hall: 9am-11am; 2.30pm4.30pm | Rock Chorus, Parish Hall, 7.30pm Thursday 18 Launton Plotters AGM at the Allotments | Ascension Day Services: Holy Communion and Breakfast, St Peter's Bucknell, 7.30am | Service, St Edburg's Bicester, 7.30pm | FoLPH AGM, Report back and progress reports, Parish Hall, 7.30pm Friday 19 Island Pond Wood, Guided Bat Walk, starts at 8pm Saturday 20 FINAL DATE FOR COPY FOR THE JUNE 2023 ISSUE OF LAUNTON LINES: SUBMIT TO launtonlines@launton.org | Launton Girls Football Summer Tournament at the Playing Fields, 9am - 5pm | Island Pond Wood Spring Clean Up and Cut Back Working Party: All Welcome 10am - 12 noon.

Sunday 21 Launton Ladies Football Summer Tournament at the Playing Fields, 9am - 5pm | St Mary's Church, Morning Prayer, 11am | Weekly Quiz at The Bull, 8pm Monday 22 Watercolour Art Class, Parish Hall, 2pm-4pm Tuesday 23 Rubbish Collection: recycling and garden bins | Community Café, Parish Hall: 9am11am; 2.30pm-4.30pm | Rock Chorus, Parish Hall, 7.30pm Wednesday 24 Over 60s Club Meeting, Sports & Social Hall, starts at 1.30pm, ends about 3.30pm Thursday 25 Launton Historical Society, Sean Callery, Cotswold Cornucopia, Parish Hall, 7.30pm Friday 26 School INSET Day. Half Term Holiday for week of 29 May - 2 June Sunday 28 St Mary's Church, Holy Communion, 11am | Weekly Quiz at The Bull, 8pm | Monday 29 Late Spring Bank Holiday | School half-term holiday this week Tuesday 30 No Community Café this week as it's School half term. Back on Tuesday 6 June Launton Lines May 2023 | Page 42

Launton Lines May 2023 | Page 43

Launton Lines is the newsletter for Launton It is published monthly by the Launton Community Communications Group which also manages the Launton website www.launton.org and the Launton Village Facebook Page and Group www.facebook.com/launtonvillage Launton Lines is delivered free to every address in the village. It is funded by advertisers and Launton Parish Council.

Further print copies are available at £1.00 per copy from Shirley Johnson (01869 369269) Launton Lines is also available online from January 2020 on www.issuu.com © MMXXIII Launton Lines. We reserve the right to edit articles submitted for inclusion.

Neither the Committee nor the Editors are responsible for views expressed in readers’ contributions.