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.

SpringlambsandtheirmothersinManorFarmbarn

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

Photo by Matt Hill

Photo by EllaRayner

The Editor writes …

Now back in Launton and it is very refreshing to be in a European springall 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, daffodillsand 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’steams - and a team photo. I hope we can report their Final success. There is much on the Coronation of Charles III with StMary’sevents on pages 19, 21 and 24, and a photo of the new ‘topper’ on the post box by Costcutteron 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 PCSOLouiseBeaumont.

RobertCornford

LauntonVillageSupport:ContactDetails

Groupemail:village.help@launton-pc.gov.uk

PHONENumbers:9:30amto5:00pm

AmonthlynewsletterforLaunton.Publishedaroundthefirstofeachmonth bytheLauntonCommunityCommunicationsGroup©2023LauntonLines email:launtonlines@launton.orgwebsite:https://launton.org/launton-lines/ TheLauntonLinesCommittee2022-23

Chair:JonSpinage|Secretary:TobyAspel|

AssociateEditor:KathyGilbert|

Phone|07305303889

Editors:RobertCornford,MattHill|Treasurer:CarinaCollins

|Advertising:JenniWalker

To book the Parish Hall

Contact:JoanPacker

Phone:07922042133

ParishHallCommittee:ChristineMassey; AudreyDeeley;LynneHarper;JoanPacker; SimonTurner;RobertCornford

LIGHTUPALIFE

Would you like to sponsor an evening’sfloodlighting at StMary’sChurch 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 JoanPacker 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 CyrilRoberts

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 7:30pmin Launton

Parish Hall

Councillors present MrAndrewBriant, MrsAbigailDowman, MrEd Sanders (Vice Chairman), MrsLesleyThompson, MrSimonTurner (Chairman), MrsJaquelineWebber

Apologies None

In attendance The Clerk, MrsJaneOlds; CllrAngus 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 EWRTeam about vehicles continuing to turn right into the A1Compound rather than going round the CharbridgeLane roundabout as signposted.

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

Reports from District and County Councillors

Councillor Patrickgave 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:

AndyBriant

AbigailDowman

EdSanders

LesleyThompson

SimonTurner

JackieWebber

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.ukin 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

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 Gigaclearwill be able to install broadbandin the Hall as part of their implementation programme.

Road Matters

OCCHighways 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 kVcable from the electricity sub station on SkimmingdishLane 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 HowesLane from 24 July until the end of October.

Speedwatch

Our SpeedwatchCo-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.ukfor more information.

Dog Bin Provision

Councillor Brianthad met with the CDCStreet 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!)

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’dlike 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/

SuewastheyoungestdaughterofHildaandCliff,bornon2August

1943atLittleShardeloes,awartimehospitalinAmersham.Sueloved manythings,butherfirstlovewasfoundinchildhood,whenshefell inlovewithherponiesandhorses,andridingwiththelocalhunt.

AsateenagerSuemovedtoTheCrookedBilletwhereshestarted herfirstjobinbankinginWendoverandAylesbury,andwhereshe metherlifelongfriendJo.

Sue’slifewasforeverchangedatTheCrookedBilletwhereshemetJohn,and theirstorybegan.Theirhair-raisingadventureoflifeandloveisastoryforthe historybooks,filledwithadventure,unrelentingjoy,andahappymarriagethat lastedfor58years.InMay1966theybegantheirbiggestadventureinlifewhen theystartedtheirfamily,andtheywelcomedtheirfirstchildWilliam.Soonafter cametheircherisheddaughterLucy,andsomeyearslaterthefamilywas completedwiththearrivaloftheiryoungerbelovedson,Charlie.

Asfun-lovingparty-goersandbigentertainers,JohnandSueoftenhostedthe mostmemorablepartiesattheirhomeinLaunton,andintheirone-of-a-kind Dome.FromCaribbean-themedsummerpartiestofancydress,Suewasatthe heartofmanycelebrationsandhappymemories.Shewasknownforher fantasticcookingandherloveforswimming:manywillrememberher wonderfulfoodandherdailylapsofthepool.

Asatravel-lovingfamily,theytraipsedacrossAmericamakingfondmemories fromtheEastCoasttotheWestCoast.

Theadventureswereneverinshortsupply,andfree-spiritedSuelatersetoff forthesouthofFrancewheresheandJohnwouldgotobuytheircottage. TheirhomeinOms,nearPerpignan,wasbuiltseveralyearslaterandremainsa placethatisatthecentreofsomanyhappymemoriesforallofherchildren, grandchildren,andtreasuredfriendswhoarewithustoday.After12yearsof happinessinFranceSueandJohnreturnedtotheUKtobuildtheirfifthhome. Theylivedherehappily,surroundedbyfamilyandfriends,foreightmoreyears. Fightinguntiltheveryend,Suepassedawaypeacefullyinherhome,amongher lovedones,on21January.

Sueisanadoredwife,acherishedmother,anadmiredgrandmother,andan incrediblyspecialfriend.Artistic,intelligent,andfriendlytoall,hercompassion knewnobounds,andshewasagentleandcaringwomanwhoneverfailedto makesomeonefeellovedorcaredfor.

Suewillremainanexampletoallofusthatalifeismadenotbywhatweget, butbywhatwecangivetoothers.

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.orgor drop a note in at 36 West End. There is no charge for such reporting.

DaphneBellman, 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 mondaysin May - all Public Holidays: 1, 8, and 29. DavidMeeks is the tutor. The cost is £8 per session. If you would like to join the classes, please emailthe following: Paul.Ebberson@gmail.com

LauntonVillagePlayers

Awards forHickoryDickoryDockPanto!

We are delighted to announce that we won 4 awards in the Oxfordshire Drama Network (ODN)’sWinter Festival for our 2023 panto Hickory DickoryDock! 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 shortlistedin three categories:

Costume award

Chorus award

Choreography award

Well done to everyone who was involved and a big thank you to our fantastic audiences who supported us and helped us raise £7,500 for Nai’sHouse.

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’sfaces. We are getting to know the residents and loved singing a mixture of panto songs, musical theatre songs and of course some old favourites.



Summer Variety Show: ComeRainorShine

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 LeysFarm, 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.

Oneofthemostimportant decisionsyouwillmake ischoosingtherightaccountant.

Contact us today foraFREEinitialmeeting.

We will proactivelylisten toyourbusinessneeds andcreatepersonalisedsolutions.

email@stackandjones.co.uk

Tel: 01869 277973

Unit4,WillowsGate,StrattonAudley

Bicester,Oxon OX279AU

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’ton our side!

If you have any questions, please contact us on 01869 277625 or by emailto 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

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.

Attendeesenjoyed 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-lovedbooks.

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 JustinBucknellElectrical (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 Costcutteralso 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

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 TheBicesterAdvertiser May 1923

11th May

THE SCHOOL HONOURED. Bookbinding and basketwork are included in the school’shandicraft curriculum. Launton was called upon to send a specimen of their bookbinding to Cheltenham for a handicraft teachers’ conference. MrParsons, 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’slarge TEDDY BEAR. Finder will be rewarded on returning same to MrsAlbertAyriss, 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 Benedictswon by three goals to two.

Wheel Chair available for loan in Launton

The family of a former editor of LauntonLines has givena 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.orgor phone 01869 241883

This month 21 members met to celebrate the 82nd birthday of Launton WIwhich 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 LangfordWI 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 BruerneCanal 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 Gayeand thank Helen for deputising for the last couple of months. Our next meeting will be on Thursday 11 May at 7.30pmin the Parish Hall, which will be the time to discuss Resolutions for the Annual Meeting of the National Federation of Women’sInstitutes (NFWI), where we will be discussing Clean Rivers for People and Wildlife.

Simon Nash

We always welcome any new members to our friendly group.

JaneLeach

CrowdsgatheredatBicesterHeritageforthesecondScrambleofthe yearon23April.Thecoverphotothismonthisfromthesameevent.

serviCesaNdeveNtsiNmay2023

YouaremostwelcometojointheMayServicesandEventslistedhere.

All except 18 May are in StMary’s Services

7May 8.00amBCPHoly Communion

AspartofourcelebratoryCoronationweekend

11.00amAll welcome Family Service

PleaserefertotheFacebookpageforStMary’sChurchfor fulldetailsoftheweekendevents

14May 6.00pmEvensong

18May AscensionDay

7.30amHoly Communion and Breakfast at StPeter’s Bucknell

7.30pmAscension Day Service at StEdburg’sChurch Bicester

21May 11.00amMorning Prayer

28May 11.00amHoly Communion

PleasecheckontheFacebookpageforStMary’sChurchLauntontosee thelatestinformationorcontactoneoftheChurchwardensatStMary’s JoanPacker j.packer779@btinternet.com01869241694

CeliaMandersonceliamanderson@aol.com01869571735

The Community Caféis open on Tuesdays through May, but will be closed on 30 May for the school half-term holiday. There are two sessions: 9am-11amfor 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.

Launton Over 60sClub 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!

Edwinawas 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. Donnathen 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 Tinaand 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 Tescoand Co-op stores. We are grateful for their support and also for that of the Launton Parish Council and Launton Sports and Social.

Our bingo jackpot has still not been won and now stands at over £20. There was a near miss at the Easter meeting when Pat, from Bicester, called the line in 21 numbers! Unfortunately that was just one too many - better luck next time.

Our meetings for this month are on 10 May and 24 May, both starting at 1.30pmin the Playing Fields Hall, and we are always very happy to see new members.

StMary’sChurch Coronation Celebration

4th- 8thMay Schedule of Events

Thursday 4 May Entries can be dropped off in the Church between 4.00pmand 6.00pm

Friday 5 May Entries can be brought along to the Church and set up between 6.00pmand 8.00pm

Sunday 7 May Church open until 4.30pm Services 8.00amBCPHolyCommunion 11.00amAllWelcomeCoronationCelebrationService 12.30pm-4.30pmViewing of the Exhibition

2.30pm-3.30pmComplimentary tea, coffee and cakes

Monday 8 May 10.30am-4.30pmViewing of the Exhibition

10.30am-12.30pmComplimentary tea, coffee and cakes

Launton Athletic Under 12sbeat the odds to secure

Knockout Plate final place

Summertown Stars Galaxy U12s4 (5) vs Launton Athletic U12s4 (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 scorelineof 63-19, including a 10-1 demolition of Athletic in early January. Led by their superstar left wingerwho 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 BotleyBoys and Girls 9-1 at home to set up the clash with Summertown. The game was played on CherwellSchool’s3Gpitch 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 midfielderFM. Athletic employed a man-marking system to limit Galaxy’sbest 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 TCbeat 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’ttake long for Galaxy to extend their lead again, as miscommunicationin Athletic’sdefence 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 JRfollowed 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.

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’sleft. 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. LNthen stepped up for Athletic and confidently slammed his penalty home, again high and to the goalkeeper’sleft. Galaxy’s player then stepped up knowing a miss would mean defeat and scored, though Athletic goalkeeper DRPwas close to saving it. That then left midfielderGLto seal the game for Athletic. With all the pressure on his shoulders, GLstepped 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 WitneyVikings from the league above in the final at Oxford City on 7 May. We’vehad some good games against Witneyin 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-sidebefore progressing to 11v11next season.

ComeandseeourCoronationCelebrationExhibition(entryisfree) Please join us to see the display of the King’sinterests 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-feltedbeach 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.

JoinusforourSpecialCoronationCelebrationService

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’sfill 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!

TheStMary’sChurchCoronationCelebrationTeam.

The AddamsFamily comes to Bicester - on stage

BCOS(Bicester Choral and Operatic Society) are excited to bring you their latest production - The AddamsFamily - 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, Pugsleyand Lurch, and more.

Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, is all grown up and has a shocking secret that only Gomezknows. She’sfallen in love with a sweet young man from a respectable family. With his cherished Morticiain the dark, will Gomezmanage to keep his daughter’ssecret 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 onlinefrom www.TicketSource.co.uk/bcos

A Vet’sVoice: 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’tworry, 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’dlived 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’dalways 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’dgrown 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 tummyupset. 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’sheart rate would be 150-200bpmin the slightly stressful environment of the vet’sconsultation 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’sheart and our cardiac vet Rachelperformed a heart scan. Unfortunately, this showed that he had cardiomyopathywith 3rddegree heart block. This meant that his heart muscle was thickened and diseased causing poor function; this would lead to a backlog of blood trying

to pass through his heart. On top of this the signalling system through the heart wasn’tworking 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’sheart 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’swhy we have pets.

Enjoy your pets,

JasonWilliams | Bicester Vets

Peaceofmindforpetowners...

CompassionateandCaringatalltimes

Longopeninghoursforyourconvenience

24houron-sitenursingcareasstandardforallourhospitalisedpatients

24hourEmergencyserviceprovidedbyourvetsatourpractice

Aservicethat'ssecondtononefromNorthOxfordshire'smostestablished, independent,specialitysmallanimalhospital.

LauntonPlotters2023

AnnualGeneral Meeting

TheLauntonPlottersareholdingtheir 2023AGMonThursday18May

atLauntonAllotments

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.

9th May

MARRIAGE May 3, at Launton Church, by the Rev JC Blomfield, rector, MrJohn 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, ThomasSmith, 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 MrWilliamParrott’s, at Launton, before W Brunner, Esq, coroner, when the following evidence was taken.

HariettSmith deposed - I am the wife of John Smith, of Launton, labourer. The deceased, ThomasSmith, 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’shouse 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 MrsButler’shouse, 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. MrDrinkwater’sassistant saw the deceased about half-past nine o’clock, and MrDrinkwatersaw 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

Continued from page 29

Thefavouritepony,thepropertyofMrSamualBaker,ofBicester, wasonhisfarmatLaunton,kickedbyhisnag,onFridayMay9, wherebythepony’slegwasbroken,anditwasconsideredbesttokillit.

30th May F JStaples-BrowneEsqof Brashfieldhouse, Caversfield, has sent to the Launton Cricket Club, of which he is president, a complete set of cricketingnecessaries.

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

[Historical note: the marriage of John Pennand 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 Jewsoncompany). The LewisPenncompany was responsible for building several houses in Launton, and also the Parish Hall.]

ForSale FreedomTrailSlumberCampBed Singlesize|Unused

Whenopenandassembled:190cmx63cmx42cm

Whenfoldedandpacked:92cmx19cmx9cm

ThereisablowupbedtousewiththeCampBed.

Alltogether-£40

Contactmainphone:01869241110

Contactfollowupphone:01869244850

GrangeMewsNewsMay2023

CommercialOffices, Industrial Units and Storage for Lease

TheeditorofLauntonLinesgaveahearteninggoodnewsstory inthelasteditionabouttheSpringLitterPickremovingrubbishinthevillage. IcanreportthatthereweretwoladiesworkingonStationRoad intheirowntimefortheweekprecedingtheorganisedgroup.

CongratulationstoJulieandAvrilwhoquietlyanddiligentlycleared severalbinsfullofrubbish-andnottoforgetourCouncillorLesley whoreportedthreedumpedtrucktyreswhichCDCremoved.

However,Iwillhavetopaytoremovethethirteenfridgefreezers dumpedatGrangeMews,alongwiththelatestcollectionof twoarmchairsandamattress.

Thediscardedscaffoldpolesandaradiatorarealreadyinthemetalskip.

ThankstolandscaperMarkBlakeandJennywhoplanted thetrees,shrubsandhedgingtoreplacewhereEWR“devegged”

the30-year-oldspecies-richhedgingatFollyCottage.

TheycouldcertainlyshowtheEWRsub-contractors doingotherhedgingaroundhereafewthings.

Launton Footpath News

LesleyhasattendedtheParishPathWarden(PPW)workshopwhich provedbeneficialintermsofformalcontentandprovidedtheopportunity todiscusstopicsofmutualinterestwithotherwardensandOCCstaff.

Aswereviewedplansforacircularwalkthatweplantoruninthesummer werealisedthatpartofitisinBuckinghamshire.Inanexerciseofempire buildingwehaveobtainedagreementfromBucksCCtoincludethe relevantpathsinourworkprogramme.Specifically,weplantocheckand installwaymarkers,trimbramblesandgenerallybringthesepathsuptoour standard.Anybodywhowouldliketohelpwiththeseprojectsismorethan welcometojoin,justcontactusatlesley.thompson@launton-pc.gov.uk

OuroverallambitionistoensurethatallthepathsinLauntonParishare easytofollowwithgoodsignageandnohedgerowhazards.It’sclearthat mostfrequentusersofthesepathsaredogwalkersasmanygivethe opportunityfordogstorunfreely.However,itisimportantforthesedogs tobekeptundercontroltopreventthemfromattackinganimalsinthe fields,hedgerowsandwoodlands.

Sadly,therehavebeentwoincidentsinthepastmonthwhendogshave chasedandkilledwildlife.Wewouldaskthedogwalkerswhousethe footpathstobemindfulofotheranimalsclosetothepathsandtocontrol theirdogstopreventarepetitionoftheseincidents.

BobRobertsandLesleyThompson

LauntonLineshasanewpermanentTreasurer

After some months, Launton Lines and the Launton Community Communications Group are pleased to announce that the search for a permanent treasurer following MichaelStack’sretirement through ill health is close to ending.

A volunteer (SamanthaCollin) came forward but felt she couldn’tcommit the amount of time needed. Fortunately another person has volunteered: welcome to CarinaCollinswho moved into the village last year. Now we have to get all the official details sorted and get her authorised to run our onlineand earth-bound accounts with Lloyds Bank.

The current acting treasurer is overjoyed and relieved.

Station Cottage on

Station

Road Launton: a report and update

SinceEastWestRail(EWR)changedtheroadlayoutnearStationCottage toclosethelevelcrossingandbuildthenewroadbridgeforStationRoad tocrossthenewrailbed,ithascreateda‘deadend’roadbyStation Cottage,wheretheoldroadusedtogooverthecrossing.

Thisareaseesalotofvisitors,andahugeamountofrubbishdumped alongthevergesandintheditches.Avillagerspentafewhoursover Easterweekendcollectingtherubbishwhichwasthendisposedofinour domesticbins.ThankyoutoJulesforthis.

PCSOLouiseBeaumontwritesonpage35aboutBicesterPolicebeing awareofthisareaandsomeinfoabouttheNitrousOxidecanistersthat arepopularamongthevisitorstothatareaandotherareasinourvillage. Shesaidthatifyouseeanyoneusingthissubstance,tophonethepolice, astheyaregatheringintelligenceaboutit.

LesleyThompson

WEARENOWBICESTER’SLONGEST-ESTABLISHED INDEPENDENTFAMILY-OWNED&RUNFUNERALDIRECTORS

BICESTER’SONLYINDEPENDENTFAMILYFUNERALDIRECTOR

Acaringtraditional24hourservice ProvidedbyMrHancockandhisteampersonally

A Statement from PCSOLouiseBeaumont

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 psychoactivedrug and is covered by the 2016 PsychoactiveSubstances Act, which means it’sILLEGAL 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.

Launton Historical Society - April 2023

On Thursday 30 March the Launton Historical Society met to hear about illnesses and cures of the 18thCentury, in a talk entitled Can Onions Cure Earache? by MelanieKing. 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 18thCentury population. If you were struck by illness or injury in the late eighteenth century, you would most likely have been referred to Scottish physician, DrWilliamBuchan’sDomestic 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’sbrains.

Burns were a very common cause of infection and death and Buchan’ssuggested 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 DrBuchan’sbook was even taken to Pitcairn Island with the Bounty mutineers led by FletcherChristian.

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’sPast and the history of the Historical Society. Our next speaker is SeanCallery, on Cotswold Cornucopia on 25 May at 7.30pmin the Parish Hall.

For further enquiries about the Historical Society, please contact cathyprocopiou@hotmail.com

KathyGilbert

Not the Grange Mews News, but a letter to

LauntonLinesfrom Peter Cox

Veryquietly,andwithnoribboncuttingorfanfare,theGrangeFarm PRoW,orfootpathtothenewfootbridgeoverthenewrailway,has beenopened.Thisgivesawonderfulspringtimewalkamongthetrees. However,itisdisturbingtoknowthatthreedogsrecentlyeliminateda domesticatedfowlatGrangeFarm.

Itisjustasalarmingtoknowthattwodogs,aginger/redandablack, onSunday15Aprilwerelooseamongthetreesandhuntedasmall immaturefawnandkilledit.

Alldogs,evenlapdogs,naturallyhuntandinthebreedingseasonin particularitisonlyfairtoletthewildlifebreedandliveinan environmentundisturbedbyothers.Alldogsshouldbeundercontrol especiallywhenaccompanyingwalkersinthecountryside.

The Launton Spring Fair at The Parish Hall

TheFoLPHSpringFairon30April washeldinunseasonableweather (itwasn’trainingandthewindwasnotchill) sopartwasoutsideandpartinside.

Therewastheexpectedrangeofjamand marmaladesandchutneys,agoodchoiceofcakes, andplantsandseedlings.

“GrowaSunflower”hadover30entries. RefreshmentsintheHalldidgoodbusiness andtheraffleandtombolawerebusy.

SpecialthankstoLoesKoorenhofandElsie

theGypsyCobfromEquilore(andsupporterMika) fortheirpatienceinofferingchildren(andadults)

photoopportunitiesbutnorides

(weweren’tabletosortouttheinsurance-sorry!)

Wewillreportonthemoneyraisednextmonth.

PeterCox,FollyCottageandGrangeFarmMews

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 hawthornsin 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’sflowers. 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’tput 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’sgratitude for you!

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’tguarantee the weather and there will be no big screen to see it live from within the Abbey, so I’llstay 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 Williamwill 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’tsucceed), but I am and always have been a staunch Royalist, whilst at the same time believing that we should

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 MichaelTams.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’ssister, Doreeneither. I remember them living in Sherwood Close, either next door to or very close to the Ayresfamily on one side and ChristineMassey 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’ttried it, give it a go whilst the shoots are still young and tender enough. Keep healthy and stay SAFE! TonyJeacockMInstRE| The ex-Launton Boy | May 2023

Diary Dates: May 2023

Inthecurrentsituation,itisdifficulttobespecificaboutvillageevents.Listedarethosewe knowareplanned-butcheckwithorganisersnearerthedateifyouplantoattend.

Monday1SpringBankHoliday(MayDay)today

Tuesday2RubbishCollection:garbagebin|CommunityCafé,ParishHall:9am-11am;2.30pm4.30pm|RockChorus,ParishHall,7.30pm

Thursday4ElectionsforCDC,PollingStationatTheParishHall.Open7am-10pm

Saturday6CoronationofCharlesIII

Sunday7StMary'sChurch,HolyCommunion(BCP),8am;FamilyService,11am|Weekly QuizatTheBull,8pm

Monday8CoronationPublicHolidaytoday

Tuesday9RubbishCollection:recyclingandgardenbins|CommunityCafé,ParishHall:9am11am;2.30pm-4.30pm|RockChorus,ParishHall,7.30pm

Wednesday10Over60sClubMeeting,Sports&SocialHall,startsat1.30pm,endsabout3.30pm

Thursday11ParishCouncilMeeting,PublicSession7.15pm,CouncilMeeting7.30pm.Changeto SchoolHall|WIMeeting:ResolutionsfortheNFWI,ParishHall,7.30pm

Friday12SCOTSMeeting,TheBull,from5.30pm

Saturday13IslandPondWood,GuidedDawnChorusWalk,startsat5am|LauntonBoys FootballSummerTournamentU7s,U9s,U11s,U13sandU15satthePlayingFields, 9am-5pm

Sunday14LauntonBoysFootballSummerTournamentU8s,U10s,U12s,U14sandU16satthe PlayingFields,9am-5pm|TrinityCamerataConcert,StEdburg’sBicester,4.00pm |StMary'sChurch,Evensong,6pm|WeeklyQuizatTheBull,8pm

Monday15WatercolourArtClass,ParishHall,2pm-4pm

Tuesday16RubbishCollection:garbagebin|CommunityCafé,ParishHall:9am-11am;2.30pm4.30pm|RockChorus,ParishHall,7.30pm

Thursday18LauntonPlottersAGMattheAllotments|AscensionDayServices:HolyCommunion andBreakfast,StPeter'sBucknell,7.30am|Service,StEdburg'sBicester,7.30pm| FoLPHAGM,Reportbackandprogressreports,ParishHall,7.30pm

Friday19IslandPondWood,GuidedBatWalk,startsat8pm

Saturday20

FINALDATEFORCOPYFORTHEJUNE2023ISSUEOFLAUNTONLINES: SUBMITTOlauntonlines@launton.org|LauntonGirlsFootballSummer TournamentatthePlayingFields,9am-5pm|IslandPondWoodSpringCleanUp andCutBackWorkingParty:AllWelcome10am-12noon.

Sunday21LauntonLadiesFootballSummerTournamentatthePlayingFields,9am-5pm|St Mary'sChurch,MorningPrayer,11am|WeeklyQuizatTheBull,8pm

Monday22WatercolourArtClass,ParishHall,2pm-4pm

Tuesday23RubbishCollection:recyclingandgardenbins|CommunityCafé,ParishHall:9am11am;2.30pm-4.30pm|RockChorus,ParishHall,7.30pm

Wednesday24Over60sClubMeeting,Sports&SocialHall,startsat1.30pm,endsabout3.30pm

Thursday25LauntonHistoricalSociety,SeanCallery,CotswoldCornucopia,ParishHall,7.30pm

Friday26SchoolINSETDay.HalfTermHolidayforweekof29May-2June

Sunday28StMary'sChurch,HolyCommunion,11am|WeeklyQuizatTheBull,8pm|

Monday29LateSpringBankHoliday|Schoolhalf-termholidaythisweek

Tuesday30NoCommunityCaféthisweekasit'sSchoolhalfterm.BackonTuesday6June