Shrivenham Station Community News




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Photographs with captions:

WO2 Dave Barrow Station Welfare
Warrant Officer
07391 385897
Maj Anthony Bolton Station Welfare Officer
07917 747046
e: Anthony.bolton@ da.mod.uk
Duty Mobile: 07557 176 864
e: David.barrow770@mod.gov.uk
or: David.barrow@da.mod.uk
Duty Mobile: 07557 176 864
Mrs Carly Luce
Families & Welfare
Coordinator
0330 236 5600
e: Carly.Luce@da.mod.uk



Mr Issam Laribi
Families & Welfare
Lead Administrator 0330 236 5600
e: Issam.laribi@ da.mod.uk
Anthony.bolton@da.mod.uk
07917 747046
Shrivenham Station Welfare Officer
Jubilee Community Centre
Defence Academy of the United Kingdom
Shrivenham SN6 8LA
Please Remember
Items for inclusion in the Spring 2026 edition may be submitted at any time but must be received by 6th Feb 2026 for publication in mid-March 2026.
Advertising: Jayne Bailey
Lance Media Group Ltd
Tel: (01536) 334219
Email: jayne@lancemediagroup.co.uk
FRONT COVER IMAGE: Courtesy of Shutterstock.com

Golf club committee and greenkeepers 9-hole competition

















Discover Blunsdon Blinds Ltd, a family-run business based in Swindon. We proudly supply and install the finest shutters and blinds for homes and businesses in and around the Swindon area.
As accredited members of the British Blinds & Shutters Association and awarded prestigious honour of being a member of The Guild of Master Craftsmen, you can feel safe in the knowledge of the skills and experience of our team. We’ve partnered with S:Craft and other leading manufacturing suppliers to provide the highest quality products. With over a decade in the shutters and blinds industry, we are fully insured and Enhanced DBS checked, holding both public liability and tradesman insurance.
Our Senior Installer, Lee, trained with S:Craft and the UK’s leading blinds company before founding Blunsdon Blinds Limited. We take pride in delivering the highest level of customer service, ensuring a complete experience from the initial sales appointment to the final installation.
Not sure what you need? Browse our website for inspiration or call us for a free, no-obligation quotation.
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www.blunsdonblinds.co.uk

We are delighted to announce that Runway25 has taken over all Military Customers for embroidered goods from Terrane Ltd This includes name badges, patches and clothing. We will aim to expand our range as we go. Runway25 is now set up to continue Terrane’s legacy by making name badges, tour T-shirts, clothing and lots more in house.

Visit our website runway25.com/name-badges/ to get started on your next order
Shrivenham Station has 4 two-bedroom Welfare (Contact) Houses located on the Watchfield Estate on Folly Crescent (Post Code SN6 8SH). The houses can be used by Shrivenham Station PS and all Students, as a lower priority; external Military ID Card holders, Civil Servants and Contractors with a DMR Pass.
These houses are controlled by Shrivenham Station Welfare Officer. The Welfare Houses are not to be used as permanent accommodation and will only be booked for short term stays. The maximum length of occupation is 14 nights in any 28 night period. In very exceptional circumstances the Welfare Houses may be allocated for longer.





Bookings will be prioritised allocation priority as follows:
Emergency Welfare Cases.
Children’s visits for divorced/separated personnel.
Visits by Wives/Husbands/Partners/Children to unaccompanied PS and Students on long courses.
Visits to Students on short or non-residential courses.
Other family visits.
Transit Accommodation during transition between assignments.
The cost of hiring the Welfare Houses is as follows:
A and B: £12.00 per night.
C, D, E, and F: £25.00 per night. Non DEFAC personnel: £35.00 per night.
For more information contact the Welfare Team on 0330 236 5600.


The Jubilee Community Centre provides facilities for Service Personnel and their families from both the United Kingdom and Overseas together with all other Station Personnel.
The Jubilee Centre is the home of the Station Welfare Officer, Welfare Warrant Officer and two Serco Staff members, be sure to stop by and say ‘hello’.
The JCC has two ‘soft play’ areas for young children (under 1metre in height and crawlers).
The idea behind the centre is to give families (and of course staff and students) a place to meet old and new friends and families of different nationalities in a friendly and personal environment.
Several activities are hosted in the JCC, including a few voluntary led events, coffee mornings, play sessions and more. We are also fortunate to be visited regularly by supporting agencies; DAFFYs, Home Start, Pinnacle, Vivo and Serco to name a few.
All activities and events are well advertised and are held for the benefit of the families of Shrivenham Station. Full details of all activities and other events of interest can be found on the JCC notice boards and TV.
The JCC is available for private functions (children’s parties a speciality) for a small hire charge to Defence Academy Pass Holders.
The JCC is located just outside the main entrance to the Station on Faringdon Road, the staff have a wealth of knowledge and can also provide details regarding local facilities and amenities.



The JCC is open 0800 - 1630hrs Monday to Thursday and 08001230hrs Friday.
The Soft Play Areas are open 0830 - 1600hrs Monday to Thursday and 0830 - 1200hrs Friday.
If you have ideas or are looking to start an activity, please contact the Families and Welfare Team on 0330 236 5600
We look forward to meeting you soon!

At the end of every academic year at the Defence Academy, there is always a seismic change in our numbers as families move on postings to pastures new. As a result we are never sure how many new (and old) faces we might see at the start of September. We were absolutely delighted therefore to welcome so many new members when rehearsals began again.
We are embarking on a new and exciting period as we have started to work with our new MD, Anthony (Tone) Brown, together with our new accompanist, Bethany Brooke. Tone has brought to us his vast experience of directing choirs and his own orchestra; he has also found a terrific selection of new songs to challenge us!

The choir has already embarked on a series of Remembrance services. These are always poignant and this year included both familiar, the Station Annual Act of Remembrance and Thanksgiving, as well as new, an Annual Service of Remembrance organised by Hilliers Funeral Directors.

The choir has had opportunities to enjoy more varied events as well. Members have ‘star burst’ around the country, climbing Pen-Y-Fan Mountain, Brecon, and joined other MWC members to sing at the Chelsea Hospital, the London Terminals as part of the RBL 2025 Poppy Appeal, and
at the Victory Services Club in London.
We are now heading towards Christmas – I am allowed to mention this as we have passed Bonfire Night where we sold hot chocolate and cookies for the spectators – so we are now brushing off our Christmas repertoire for the many Carol concerts/services coming up. We are also looking forward to the International Day in the Defence Academy where we can enjoy the myriad of different cultures (and yummy national dishes) on display whilst we “sing for our suppers”.

We are now rehearsing for our forthcoming Christmas Concert when we will be performing a selection of festive songs and familiar carols at St Michael’s Church Highworth on Friday 12th December. We will be joined by the Swindon Male Voice Choir which will make the occasion extra special. Do come along if you can!
The Defence Academy Military Wives choir is for female spouses and partners of serving and retired military personnel, serving service women, and female support staff, including Civil Servants, Serco, Cranfield and other contractors. We are always delighted to welcome new or returning members.
Our main rehearsal takes place on Thursday evenings from 7.30pm until 9.30pm at St Alban’s Church, Axis Road, Watchfield. We also meet on Monday mornings from 10.30am until noon at the Jubilee Centre, Faringdon Road, Watchfield, Please pop into either of these meetings for more information! You can also contact us via email at defenceacademy@ militarywives.org

On Thursday, 6 November, St Thomas Church in Watchfield hosted a poignant Act of Remembrance led by the Reverend Robert Church (RN) of the Defence Academy’s Armed Forces Chaplaincy Centre.
The service featured moving performances of Owain Park’s Poppy Red by the Defence Academy Military Wives’ Choir, and Flowers of the Forest by attending piper, Tony Hurst. The event was attended by children from Watchfield Primary School, serving personnel, veterans, and members of the local community.
A wreath was laid by Station Commander Wing Commander Katherine Ingram, honouring the fallen. The ceremony included international representation from Australian and Canadian course members currently studying at the Defence Academy, reflecting the enduring bonds among allied nations.
On Tuesday 11 November, to mark Armistice Day, personnel from across the Defence Academy paid their respects to the fallen at a service held at Beckett House, home to the Armed Forces Chaplaincy Centre.
Led by Reverend (Group Captain) Ian Brown, the service included the laying of a wreath by the Chief Executive and Commandant of the Defence Academy, Major General Peter Rowell, MBE, and musicians from the Household Cavalry performing the Household Cavalry version of the Last Post, as Shrivenham Station honoured those who gave their life in service to our country.




On 5 November, Shrivenham Station brought the community together for a vibrant Bonfire Night celebration, welcoming over 300 guests from across the local area.
Guests enjoyed a variety of food stalls serving classic favourites such as burgers and hotdogs, alongside seasonal treats including glühwein, cakes, cookies, and hot chocolate.
Families were entertained by a lively children’s disco, complete with a fog machine and smoke bubbles, adding an extra layer of excitement for the younger attendees.
A highlight of the night was the ceremonial lighting of the bonfire by Station Commander Wing Commander Rusty Ingram, which set the stage for a dazzling fireworks display.

This event was a fantastic example of the Defence Academy’s commitment to fostering community engagement and celebrating traditions together.

Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the evening such a success.


Vale Garage Service Centre offers MOT testing, repairs, servicing and diagnostics. We do anything from tyres to brakes, batteries and exhausts.
Vale Garage car and van sales is an independent retailer supplying low milage used cars and vans in the local area of Oxforshire, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and Berkshire.
For vehicles outside the manufacturers warranty we offer a fully comprehensive warranty. All vehicles are serviced up to date when sold.
Service telephone: 01367 710 777
Sales telephone: 01367 710 100
Forecourt Location: Vale Garage, Faringdon Road, Stanford in the Vale, nr Faringdon, Oxfordshire SN7 8NN. Email: valegarage@hotmail.co.uk Website: www.valegarage.com






Defence Academy personnel and families enjoyed a fun-filled evening with a variety of entertainment and activities at this year’s ‘Academy Together’ event, held on 24 September 2025.
Sam Martin, Warrant Officer Class 1 from the Visits and Events Team, said:
“The weather held for the evening’s events and entertainment, allowing attendees to make the most of funfair rides, live music, circus performers and much more.
“Thanks to everyone who worked hard to enable this event to take place, giving old and new faces from Shrivenham Station a chance
to enjoy an evening away from the ‘day job’.”
First launched in 2022, Academy Together aims to give personnel the opportunity to enjoy time with their families and build connections within the Shrivenham Station community.
This year for the first time, the event was situated on the grounds of Beckett House, with a spectacular evening line-up of activities and entertainment, including:

• live music (tribute acts and bands)
• fairground rides
• barbecue
• bouncy castle
• circus performers
• facepainting
• axe throwing
• climbing wall
• pony rides


New elements were added to this year’s event including guided tours of the Grade II Listed building, Beckett House, and a hands-on experience with military training aids from the Defence Weapons, Ordinance, Munitions, and Explosions Engineering School.
Commander Carrie Insley, Academy Together Project Officer, reflected on the evening: “Academy Together ‘25 was such a great event – everything came together as we’d planned.
“Seeing everyone enjoying themselves, whether it was on the dodgems, singing along to the
amazing live music or just spending some time together with family and friends, made all the hard work worthwhile. It wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our amazing sponsors – ESS, Serco, JSCSC Mess, Station Officers’ Mess, Warrant Officers & Sergeants’ Mess, and the Station Welfare fund.”

The evening concluded with music from the Firefly Band and a sparkling pyrotechnic display.
A big thank you to Station Headquarters who coordinated the event and all the volunteers, ESS, Station Messes and Welfare Team who supported the event.
The Defence Academy Golf Club enjoyed a busy and successful season in 2025, with a healthy and active membership enjoying the busy schedule of competitions, with some success, in the inter club fixtures at home and away. The club is open to all those working or studying at the Defence Academy, and a variety of membership packages or ‘pay & play’ options exist to allow you to enjoy golf here in Shrivenham.
Home and away matches were held with clubs across Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and Berkshire, with Sgt Leon Campbell, MPGS, leading the men’s team in his role as Club Captain for 2025 – thank you Leon! The Defence Academy also hosts military golf societies at home and at the Marlborough Golf Club for some 36-hole events.

The club continues to support two charities, the On Course Foundation, a charity that supports the recovery of wounded, injured or sick Service Personnel through the medium of golf and more locally, Pennyhook Farm Trust, supporting adults on the Autistic Spectrum. The club has raised £665 so far for charity this year with our end of season event still to come.
Golf club committee and greenkeepers 9-hole competition – September 2025
It was a privilege to present Defence Academy Athletic Union President’s Commendation to three very special and long standing members who have contributed so much to the club over the past two decades: Jill Elbourn for her work as Lady’s Captain, Social Secretary, and more recently as committee member responsible for

Safeguarding, together with Ray Elbourn and Bill Durham, two active golfers who have also contributed so much with building and maintenance tasks that have improved the golf facilities at the club. The presentations were made by the Club Chair, Kelly Lusted after an informal 9-hole competition by the staff and committee of the club in September.
The club is grateful to Shrivenham Station staff for the support to refurbish the clubhouse and Beckett Pavilion facilities this year, ready for the new season.
The golf course is open daily,
and subject to weather, is playable throughout the year. The active competition season begins again in April 2026, with regular competitions for Men’s and Ladies section. The club also competes in the regional 7’s League and the Hillman Trophy knock-out competition.
Looking ahead to 2026, the Golf Club’s 70th anniversary year, we look forward to seeing you on the fairways. The Annual General Meeting will be held on Mon 23 Feb 2026
Golf tuition is available at the club – please contact the manager for further details.
If you are interested in playing golf during your stay at the Defence Academy, please contact the club manager, Karen Banbrook.
Tel: 01793 224888 (new number for 2025!) (in office Mon, Wed & Fri 1100-1600); email manager@ dagolfclub.onmicrosoft.com

DO YOU NEED HELP WITH THIS PART OF YOUR TAX RETURN?
For the past 22 years I have helped numerous Service families to complete their Tax Returns. I live in Shrivenham which means I am able to meet new clients at short notice. I offer a fast and efficient service at reasonable rates.
For further information, please contact: LOUISE SLATER BSc, FCMA on:
Tel: 01793 783332
Email: louise@louiseslater.net

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“The Healers” – design by Jen Delyth ©www.celticartstudio.com
Colleen Smith Cert Ed, Dip. Therapeutic Counsellor. Children - Adults Counselling Tel: 07859414376.
Email: info@colleensmith.org Web: www.colleensmith.org
I am a Counsellor and Havening Practitioner I can help with removing the feelings around terrifying, upsetting, or painful memories from traumatic events?
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Havening Techniques is a science-based therapy offering a breakthrough in releasing the feelings of past trauma swiftly. Let me help you move forward with your life; I am offering 10% off sessions during 2025 for Military and Emergency Services and Ex personal.
Call or email me now to discuss any details and let me help you to move forward with your life. Only 30 minutes from Shrivenham.
Colleen Smith 07859 414 376 / info@colleensmith.org










































Our aim is to build a strong and supportive community through kindness and compassion. We support local military families, and all associated with the military. We provide pastoral, spiritual, and religious care, strength and guidance, all regardless of your belief or faith background.
aim is to build a strong and supportive community through kindness and compassion. We support local military families, all associated with the military. We provide pastoral, spiritual, and religious care, strength and guidance, all regardle your belief or faith background.
Station Chaplaincy is always here to lend an ear, 24/7. We can meet for a walk, or chat over a brew.
Station Chaplaincy is always here to lend an ear, 24/7. We can meet for a walk, or chat over a brew.
We are situated in Building 43, car park A, opposite Kitchener Hall
We are situated in Building 43, car park A, opposite Kitchener Hall

Christenings and Baptisms at the Defence Academy
If you are considering having your child christened or baptised whilst you are based at Shrivenham we would ask that you contact us sooner rather than later to ensure we can accommodate you before you are posted away.
For further information on christenings and baptism please do not hesitate to contact the Station Chaplaincy Coordinator Leigh Hyde by emailing leigh.hyde@da.mod.uk
The Station Chaplaincy Team are delighted to welcome you to the Defence Academy Station Church, St. Alban’s.
All are welcome to join us for inclusive worship. You will always receive a warm welcome.
Roman Catholic Mass 09:30-10:30 every Sunday Priests from Blackfriars conduct Mass for the Defence Academy

Family Friendly Worship 11:00-12:00 every Sunday Services led by Station Chaplain
Join us for refreshments from 10:30-11:00 in the hall.
PleasegetintouchtodiscussChristening/Baptismrequests, marriageblessings/renewals,firstcommunions,andmore.
Multi Faith Provision at the Defence Academy
The Main Multi Faith Prayer Room is situated in Beckett House, opposite the reception.
A smaller Multi Faith Prayer Room and Chapel can also be found in JSCSC first floor, Block B and is open 24hrs.
Friday Prayers
Take place from 13:00 - 14:00 every Friday at Beckett House, Multi Faith Prayer Room.
Formoreinformation,pleasecontact LeighHyde,ChaplaincyCoordinator

Life can often be busy, stressful, and full on. Sometimes it can feel like we are on a treadmill, never achieving anything, and exhausting ourselves in the process. Taking time for ourselves often slips down our list of priorities.
If you are looking to find a precious moment of peace, calm, and tranquillity, then come to The Haven.
The Haven is located in Building 43, beside the chaplaincy centre. Opposite Kitchner Hall. It is a quiet space, where all are welcome to sit and enjoy the best free refreshments in the West. Why not enjoy a book; assemble a jigsaw; or colouring. If that’s not enough, spend some time getting lost in your own world with LEGO, play a tune on the keyboard or bang on the drums or play a boardgame or two, air hockey and table football can also be played.
Come and discover what The Haven has to offer.
The Haven is open to all during the working day and evening, and you are welcome to stay for as long as you need.
For more info, please contact Chaplaincy Coordinator, Leigh Hyde, 0792 016 2664, leigh.hyde@da.mod.uk













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During my teens and into my early twenties, spending time with my Grandmama was always a joy. We would sit and stitch, I would listen and learn about our family history, some sad, some happy and some with questions left unanswered and also learnt how to sew patchwork quilts.
No machines back then, we stitched by hand and used paper templates cut from letters and envelopes. Sometimes we remade smaller quilts from preloved quilts and sometimes we made new quilts from preloved clothing. No lovely quilt shops like we have now.
At the time I didn’t really, fully appreciate just how precious those times would become. I look at my wedding quilt that we worked on and think about how much history is wrapped up in those fabrics and stitches. There’s scraps from my jeans that I wore till they nearly fell off me, precious squares from the blouse I wore on my very first date, two squares from Grandmama’s apron ( I remember being wrapped in that as she taught me how to make jam…I got to lick the spoon when she wasn’t looking) and even some odd shaped pieces from Grandpa’s much loved dungarees, complete with the repairs I did when he ripped them on a nail while fence making. He knew Grandma would scold something wicked so I was told “you had better fix that my little gal or I will be in the dog house”. Between us, with him refusing to take the dungarees off, we managed a repair, of sorts. I am sure she noticed eventually and must have smiled to herself because her extra small stitches along side my big galloping ones are
still visible on that square even now.
Life has a way of throwing us painful curved balls…..I grew up, went to College, married and became a young widow. My Grandmama passed away and left me all her quilts and her sewing box. In that box were love letters from Grandpa to her ……I am gutted to think that way back, a young me was happily cutting those up for templates! If only I had known.
Moving forward in time, I now teach my daughter but using a machine, rotary cutter, ruler and mat. We mostly use new cotton fabrics in patterns and designs in all colours of the rainbow. Coming to the UK, enabled me to join The Academy Quilters where I learnt how to use a machine and all the new aids available to us quilters nowadays. I was delighted to find my tutor had a love of the historical side of patchwork and quilting. Between us, we were even able to repair one of Grandma’s fragile but much loved quilts. That was a bonus I wasn’t expecting.
We are now back home, me with my quilts and new UK memories and another family generation learning together how to treasure quiet time (no phones or cyber stuff) and stitch precious fabrics into family heirlooms.
I am so grateful to my tutor, for all her patience and understanding, I love that we are just “a button away” and can still get my “oh dear moments” sorted on line.
Thank you Academy Quilters, you are now a big part of my history.
Maryam W.


Careful piecing and neat hand appliqué was learnt and used to create this whimsical quilt block. Going slowly resulted in an enjoyable project with no unpicking, much to the maker's delight.


A beautiful quilt block, painted and stitched, using a design from a Balinese

A joyful, well thought out colour palette using precious scraps. Neat machine embroidery stitches used for the applique. The more formal side sections give the eye somewhere to rest in between enjoying the fun fabric placement of the panel.

Using specially saved scraps and keeping to a bold two colour palette, this quilter designed a unique and stunning quilt panel. Shapes are so neatly machine appliquéd.

pleased

Using the delightful floral designs from a preloved hand embroidered table cloth ....this quilter wanted to preserve the stitchery on her hexagon shapes for her quilt. The technique used is called English paper piecing. Hand quilting completes this creation.

Hand appliquéd panels with lovely hand embroidered details, take this quilt into the heirloom bracket. Completed in time to be taken back home, wrapped and saved as a Christmas surprise for dearly loved


This quilt section certainly has the WOW factor! Amazing quilting, very neat machine appliqué and an intriguing feature using just three shades of the same colour family.








Life after the military can be uncertain - but it can also be full of new possibilities. If you’re looking for a career with purpose, flexibility, and real-world impact, becoming a driving instructor could be your next mission. You’ve served your country - now help others on the road to independence.
You don’t need previous experience teaching - just a full UK driving licence and a commitment to helping others. KL Driver Training provides a comprehensive, DVSA-approved training programme that supports you from start to finish:
• Part 1: Theory & Hazard Perception
• Part 2: Advanced Driving Ability
• Part 3: Instructional Ability
We offer flexible payment plans and military-friendly support, including help accessing ELCAS (Enhanced Learning Credits) and personalised guidance throughout your transition. You can train around your current schedule, and we’ll support you with finding pupils once you qualify.
Contact KL Driver Training today and take the first step towards your new career.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to you and your families from all at theLanguage Centre

The Language Centre is open during the day for English classes and in the evening for foreign language tuition.
Find us at:
7 Axis Road, opposite St Alban’s Church. For more information, call us on: 01793 784881 or email: languagecentre7@gmail.com

Bespoke 1:1 Tuition
We offer students 1:1 English and Foreign Language tuition with the option to be taught in the privacy of your own home.
Email us on languagecentre7@gmail.com or drop in and speak to us about how we can help you.
Our new term starts on 5th January and offers a great opportunity if you are looking to improve your English or learn a new language. The lessons are fun and sociable as we believe this is the best environment in which to learn. In addition to improving your language skills, the classroom is a great place to make new friends and find out about other countries and their cultures.
AVAILABILITY ON OUR ENGLISH ADVANCED CLASSES
This is what a former student had to say about The Language Centre:
“Not only will you improve your language, you will also meet so many nice people from all over the world. You will not only learn more about the UK but also broaden your horizons in general.” Advanced class student
So, if you know anyone struggling with the English language – au pairs, overseas visitors for example – please contact us.
The Language Centre provides ‘English as a Foreign Language’ to the dependants and families of international officers attending courses at the Defence Academy, Cranfield University and the local community. We also provide tuition in French, Spanish, German and Italian to families across the entire Shrivenham Station site and the local community.
Both group and private lessons are available to suit all abilities, from beginner through to advanced. There is also the opportunity to be tutored in your own home.
Everyone who attends English or foreign language lessons regularly can expect to:
• become more confident and fluent in speaking the language
• improve their listening skills
• learn a range of new vocabulary
• make considerable progress in their understanding of grammar
We achieve this by working our way through a coursebook. We also use games, role-plays and short presentations to make learning more effective and enjoyable.
Most of our work is in pairs or small groups.
Students can elect to sit diploma examinations in English from the Cambridge Examination board on completion of their courses and we also run exam preparation lessons.
Specially tailored classes for children are available in your own home.

The Language Centre is open during the day for English classes and in the evening for foreign language tuition. Find us at 7 Axis Road, opposite St Alban’s Church.
For more information, call us on: 01793 784881 or email: languagecentre7@gmail.com

ENGLISH CLASSES ALL LEVELS Weekdays 9.30am – 11.30am
FOREIGN LANGUAGE EVENING CLASSES All levels Monday – Thursday
FRENCH SPANISH ITALIAN GERMAN

Book your place Email: languagecentre7@gmail.com www.shrivenhamlanguagecentre.co.uk
The excited buzz at coffee break is testament to how much students improve their language skills through regular interaction with other students and teachers.
Our active social programme includes craft and baking sessions as well as outings. As we go to press there is great excitement about our annual trip to Bath Christmas Market.














At only £45 the MOT test is peace of mind, you will definitely benefit from the specialist independent and friendly service that is offered here at Fast Piston.
If your car is over 3 years and requires an annual MOT inspection, we are here to help! We offer a standard inspection of over 150 safety-related and emission items, including lights, suspension, brakes and steering.
Fast Piston offers a full range of car services or interim services and we are happy to help you choose which service is best for you.
Fast Piston are fully committed to providing an amazing experience, whether you are coming in for a routine inspection or a repair service, Fast Piston guarantees that you will be 100% satisfied with the work carried out. Our shop only uses parts from reputable brands to ensure that your vehicle is always primed.



Maj Anthony Bolton
Shrivenham Station Welfare Officer 07917 747046
WO2 Dave Barrow
Station Welfare Warrant Officer 07391 385897
Mrs Carly Luce
Families and Welfare Coordinator 0330 236 5600
Mr Issam Laribi
Families & Welfare Lead Administrator 0330 236 5600
Military Provost Guard Service 0330 236 5538 - (MPGS)
Station Chaplain 07977 479866
Leigh Hyde
Chaplaincy Coordinator 07920 162664
Email: leigh.hyde@da.mod.uk
Shrivenham Station Medical Centre
01793 785552
Shrivenham Station Dental Centre 01793 785223
Elm Tree Surgery, Shrivenham Village 01793 782207
Fernhill Practice, Faringdon 01367 242407
White Horse Practice, Faringdon 01367 242388
Westrop Surgery, Highworth 01793 762218
Great Western Hospital, Swindon 01793 604020
John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford 01865 741166
Highworth Dental Surgery 01793 762231
Faringdon Dental Surgery 01367 240514
Graham Jones Pharmacy 01793 783336
Vets
Drove Veterinary Hospital 01793 522483
DAFFYS dadaffys@gmail.com
Shrivenham Station Equestrian Centre 01793 785489 http://www.shrivenhamequestrian.com/ Scouts cn@wands.org.uk www.kascouts.org.uk/wands
Defence Academy Golf Club 01793 785725
Girlguiding Tuckmill ( Watchfield & Shrivenham) (Rainbows, Brownies, Guides,Rangers, Volunteering) Email: Alice.k.mintoff@cranfield.ac.uk Tuckmillgirlguiding@gmail.com
Defence Academy Military Wives Choir defenceacademy@militarywiveschoirs.org
Academy Quilters 01793 762278
Education Local Services
Shrivenham Village Post Office
01793 782260
Watchfield Village Hall 01793 782234 or 783157
Shrivenham Station Language Centre
Alfresco Child Care
The Barn Kindergarten
Old Station Nursery
01793 784881
01793 790263
01793 782182
01367 243800
Watchfield Primary School 01793 782623
Shrivenham CE Primary School 01793 782406
Longcot & Fernham Primary School 01793 782381
Shellingford Primary School 01367 710301
Faringdon Community College 01367 240375
Cranfield University Switchboard 01793 785810
Miscellaneous
Main Gate Reception
JSCSC Reception (Main Foyer)

0330 236 5900
0330 321 0888

Anderson Education has a wealth of experience and up-to-date knowledge of UK boarding schools; we have visited over 350 UK boarding schools, can answer your questions and help you through the process.
UK Boarding School Exhibitions and Information Days
Tidworth Garrison – 20th March & 23rd September 2026
Aldershot Garrison – 20th May 2026
Please see our website for pop-up event dates
We have been working with Forces & FCDO families for over 25 years. Our education service is FREE, unique and personal to each child and their family.
Email: jen@andersoneducation.co.uk
WhatsApp/mobile: Jen +44 (0) 7442 222075
www.andersoneducation.co.uk




The Snooty Mehmaan delivers the best in asian cuisine combined with a great venue with boutique hotel rooms, an award-winning restaurant, and a function room to host large events such as weddings, conferences, birthdays, etc.
With an emphasis on refined yet creative pan-asian cuisine, the menu incorporates both traditional classic favourites and original new dishes that apply classic flavours with a modern twist.
Located outside littleworth village on the A420 near Faringdon, Oxfordshire and surrounded by the picturesque oxfordshire countryside. The restaurant itself holds many of the original buildings strong architectural features including original oak beams and flooring give the snooty mehmaan its strong and natural environment that amplifies both the mood and the creative food on offer.







i s a Swindon based company selling high quality fresh fish from his 5* hygiene rated refrigerated van.

Bass Fillets, Cod, Crab (Plain & Dressed), Crevettes (Raw & Cooked), Haddock (Plain & Smoked), Hake, Halibut, Manx Kippers, Monkfish, Plaice, Salmon, Scallops, Skate, Swordfish, Tuna and much more...

I WILL BE COMING TO: ST ALBANS CHURCH CAR PARK, WATCHFIELD SN6 8RL CARD PAYMENTS ACCEPTED
EVERY WEDNESDAY AT 4.45PM - 6PM
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To Advertise in this publication please contact Jayne Bailey on 01536 334219 or email jayne@lancemediagroup.co.uk



FERNHAM SN7 7NX 01367 820 643
www.TheWoodmanFernham.co.uk

Charming 17th century country pub just 2 miles from Faringdon Delicious seasonal menus
Cask conditioned ales, craft beers, wine & cocktails
Dog friendly Minibus pick up for tables of 8+


