Wendover News June 2026

Local development: time for talking

Ten years ago, our area had a very different feel. It was open, green and calm. Driving around Wendover and the surrounding villages, you might have sometimes been moderately surprised to see a new house or two being built, or a slight modification made to a troublesome road junction.

But today, this part of Buckinghamshire is changing at a bewildering rate, with new roads and housing developments everywhere. You may have a sense that it is entirely out of your control. As a resident, you are not powerless, and in this feature, we want

to demonstrate how individuals, working together, can make a difference.

In late July, there will be a six-week window of opportunity to contribute to the future of our area. Prepare to make your views known.

Development – housing, industry, schools and roads and services – is managed by planners in Buckinghamshire Council. Nothing is judged in isolation. A strict set of regulations and processes has been defined,

to ensure that developments are not rejected by a planner in a bad mood – or waved through just because it’s their birthday! These regulations and processes will be brought together in the Buckinghamshire Local Plan, which is in the process of being prepared to form a statutory document.

This new county-wide document is, in essence, a combination and evolution of the town/district plans previously produced by Aylesbury Vale, Chiltern, South Bucks and Wycombe District Councils. Local Plans are also designed to embody

Continued p8

Wendover | Stoke Mandeville | Dunsmore | The Lee | Halton | Weston Turville | Aston Clinton

The public meeting about Hampden Fields construction at Bedgrove’s Church of the Holy Spirit on 30 April. See p9. Photo: Simon Eccles.

Contents – June 2026

Wendover Armed Forces day 22

Lindengate Seeds of Change 23 HS2 update 24 Plug in solar panels ................................ 26

Wendover Shed 27

Club Corner ........................................... 29

From the Clock Tower Back

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LEGACY FAIRS

Antiques & Collectors Market

Wendover Memorial Hall

Thursday 18 June 9am-2pm (Trade 8am)

JUNE 2026

WPC Ivy Volunteers

Tues 2 & 16, Meet 10am, Clock Tower

Supporting Wendover Parish Council: protecting trees. 1st and 3rd Tuesday each month. Equipment provided but feel free to bring your own favourite tools and gloves.

Kimble & Ellesborough Horticultural Society

Tue 2, 8pm Stewart Hall, Little Kimble HP17 OXN

Amber Hine, who trained at Capel Manor College, now runs Hine Garden Design and her talk covers some garden design history, site analysis, garden styles, design approaches, a look at some design experiences and a couple of projects. www.kehs.uk

Wendover u3a Talk

Wed 3, 10am, St Mary’s Church, Wendover HP22 6NL

“Searching the Caribbean Crossroads”. Open to all Wendover U3a members.

Craft Group

Weds 3 & 17 10am-12 noon

Wendover Christian Centre HP22 6JG

Craft Group provides time, space and friendly company to work on any kind of craft project. Take your own materials or just go along to see what others are doing. Coffee served about 11am. Newcomers always welcome.

Wendover Horticultural Society

Thu 4, 2.30pm, St Anne’s Hall, HP22 6JG Professor Alison Shreeve, Chair of the National Sweet Pea Society, will talk on “Sweet Peas and their Relatives”- specimen blooms and how to show them. Price £3

The Golden Age of Hollywood

Thus 4,11,18, 7.45pm, St Mary’s Wendover Wendover Choral Society are hosting three singing workshops led by musical director

Kenton Brigden. Open to singers of all abilities. Details and tickets www.wendoverchoral. co.uk. See p18.

Chilterns Neuro Charity Golf Day

Fri 5, Stocks Golf Club, Aldbury,HP23 5RX

Whether you’re entertaining clients, strengthening team relationships or taking a break from work, Stocks Golf Day, is a great opportunity to combine business with purpose. Limited spaces. chilternsneurocentre.org/ product/stocks-golf-day-friday-5th-june-26/

Poetry Please

Fri 5, 10.30am, Wendover Christian Centre ‘Yesterday’s the past, tomorrow’s the future, but today is a gift. That’s why it’s called the present’ (Bil Keane, cartoonist). All welcome!

Mikron Theatre at Lindengate

Fri 5, 7pm, Lindengate

‘Top of the Wold’, a musical adventure. Gates open 5pm. Performance starts 7pm. Visit www.lindengate.org.uk/events. See p18.

World Cup Kickoff Quiz Night

Fri 5, 7.30pm Wendover Memorial Hall Meal from Codfather Chippy. Live sweepstake for the first 48 sign ups £20 per ticket, £145.00 for tables of eight or more. Visit fnhospice.org.uk/ W say- cake- off.

Bucks Art Weeks

Sat 6-Sun 21 June

This event brings together work of hundreds of local contemporary artists. Pop-up exhibitions will appear in working studios, galleries and venues across the county. See ad front page and p19.

RAF Flypasts: To celebrate the completion of training at RAF Halton, flypasts will take place, weather permitting, at 13:30 on Wednesdays 3 and 24 June.

For updates Tel: 07543 524212 or email: p.hetheringtonwh@gmail.com

Entrance by donation to Charity

Grass Cutting Service Regular or one off cuts

For free quote call Ian Whittome 01296 682361 07885 031431

on behind the scenes at une r www.farmsunday.org | www.buckmoorendfarm.co.uk

All enquiries to Angela German 07423 266713 stanneshallwendover@hotmail.co.uk WENDOVER MEMORIAL HALL Great for Children’s Parties Ideal for Weddings & Functions Excellent kitchen facilities

Enquiries : 07804 671445 angelawmh@aol.co.uk

Party in the Park, Stoke Mandeville, Sat 6, 12pm–9pm

Queen Elizabeth II Playing Fields, HP22 5UJ

Three main live music acts are scheduled to appear, alongside a variety of community performers, with popular BBC 3CR presenter Andy Collins there during the day. See p18.

Buckmoorend Open Farm

Sun 7, 11am-4pm, Butlers Cross, HP170UT Learn about everything that goes on behind the scenes at the farm. See p14.

Politics Book Club

Mon 8, 7-8.30pm, Wendover Library “Peacemaker U Thant, the United Nations & the untold story of the 1960s” by Thant Myint-U.

Peacemaker is a fast-paced and engaging retelling of a critical but almost forgotten time and an almost forgotten man. Whether you have time to read the book or not, you are welcome to join in the discussion about the differences between 1960s and today’s United Nation and diplomacy.

For more information on the politics book club email frances@spokenwordltd.com

Purssell Path volunteers

Tues 9 & 23,10am, Purssell Path Sign Helping maintain this natural space and pathway. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays each month. Bring your own tools and gloves.

Wills and estate planning surgery

Tue 9, 12-2pm, Wendover Library, HP22 6DU

To book a slot email: iain@protrustconsulting. co.uk or tel: 01296 415700. See ad below.

Wendover Talks at the Library

Thu 11, 2.30-4pm, Wendover Library

‘Home-Build Surgery’ with speaker Sam Duggans. Practical project management –taking control of projects from the start, for homeowners. Book at the library counter or email frances@spokenwordltd.com. See p16.

Board Game Café

Thu 11 & 25, 2-4pm

Wendover Christian Centre HP22 6JG

Enjoy a variety of games old and new or bring your own to play with others. Open and free for all ages.

Saturday Sleuths

Sat 13, 10-11.30am, Wendover Library

The third monthly crime fiction book club meeting will feature a discussion around Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie, considered to be the ultimate whodunnit. There will also be a presentation about Agatha Christie’s life and work. Members can recommend their favourite crimes titles, and can also take part in a book swap. Free to attend and there will be tea and biscuits. All welcome. Email carol@ the-investigator.co.uk for a copy of the

reading list.

Open Garden at Acer Corner

Sat 13 & Sun 14, 2-5pm

10 Manor Road HP22 6HQ

Another opportunity to visit this stunning Japanese-inspired garden, part of the National Open Garden Scheme. Lovingly designed by owner Jo Naiman, it offers a beautiful and serene atmosphere. with beautiful Japanese maples and carefully placed shrubs, stones and artwork. Enjoy seeing almost 70 unique Japanese maples

People’s Emergency Briefing

Wed 17, 7.30-9.30pm

St Mary’s Church, Wendover, HP22 6NL

Climate Action Wendover is hosting a free film screening,. This powerful film brings together leading UK experts on climate and nature.See p13.

Aylesbury Centre of the National Trust Thu 18, 7.30pm

Broughton Jnr School HP20 1NQ

Jeff Rozelaar speaks on ‘Princess Margaret’. Details from Hon Sec, phone/SMS 07399 540626, emailaylesburycentrent@gmail.com, or Facebook.

Helios Festival of Folk and Fable Fri 19-Sun 21, The Barn at Dundridge Manor, Buckland Common, HP23 6NN

The concerts feature many of the country’s

most talented and sought-after musicians who live locally in the Chilterns.

This midsummer festival will celebrate the close of Echor’s fifth season, with six events over three days. For more information and tickets, visit www.echormusic.com/helios See ad p3 and 18..

FNHC Midnight Walk

Sat 20, Roman Park Hall, Aylesbury. An uplifting event inviting participants to walk five or ten miles in celebration of life and in memory of loved ones. For more details visit fnhospice.org.uk/midnightwalk

Book Club

Sat 20, 10.30-11.30am

Wendover Christian Centre HP22 6JG No set books. Just hear about what others have been reading. If you wish, talk about something you’ve read – whether you loved it or not. Begins with coffee. All welcome.

Aylesbury Vale Stitchers

Sat 20, 2-4.30pm

Wendover Memorial Hall, HP22 6HF Freya Stanford From Hand And Lock. Hand & Lock’s rich history dates back to 1767 when M. Hand, a young Huguenot refugee from France, arrived in London and began selling lace to military tailors. As his reputation grew, he expanded his business

to include the design and manufacture of military badges and uniform accoutrements. email: aylesburyvalestitchers@gmail.com

Wendover Horticultural Society

Sat 20 Outing, 2.30-4.30pm.

Self drive garden visit to Old Keeper’s Cottage, Kiln Lane, Hedgerley, SL2 3UY Cost £16 Mem /£18 Non Mem includes garden entry and refreshments. Call Diane Smith on 07966 155775 to book and if you need transport.

Wendover Junior Football Tournament

Sat 20, 9am-6pm and Sun 21, 9-12am

RAF HaltonChestnut Ave HP22 5PG A much loved annual football tournament. Alongside the exciting matches there will be a range of food and drink options.

WJFC-chair@hotmail.com. See p29.

Chilterns & Bierton Crematoria

Father’s Day remembrance

Sun 21, Chilterns, 10am-1pm

Whielden Lane, Amersham HP7 0ND Bierton, 10am -12pm

Cane End Lane, Bierton HP22 5BH

Both Crematoria will be hosting free Father’s Day remembrance events, offering a quiet and supportive space for reflection. The informal event is open to all members of the community and will include gentle music, refreshments, and the presence of

bereavement volunteers for those who may wish to talk or seek support. Seeded paper will be provided to write letters to loved ones. Contact the office for more information: 01494 724263, or see: www.chilternscrematorium.co.uk and www.biertoncrematorium.co.uk.

Buckland Open Gardens

Sun 21, 1-5pm, Buckland Village

Seven gardens will be open and money raised will go to All Saints’ Church, Buckland. £5 per person. Tea and home-made cakes in the church from 2-4.30pm. Plant stall at the old rectory. Enquiries - 07900 828621.

Wendover Talks

Thu 25, 2.30pm-4pm, Wendover Library ‘Wild London’ Speaker: Jon Mason (the early birder). A Talk and Photographic Journey of London’s Wildlife (see p16)

Please ask one of the volunteers at the library counter to add your name to the attendee list for this talk as places are limited!

Comedy Night at Bel & The Dragon

Thu 25, High Street, Wendover

Big summer outdoor Comedy Show with a line-up of comedy stars featuring MIchael Shafar, Rich Wilson, headliner Esther Manito and MC Lyle Barke.

See ad below.

The Arts Society Ballinger

Thu 25, 7.30 for 8pm, Ballinger Village Hall, Ballinger, Great Missenden HP16 9LG

The Dark Side of the Boom - The Mass Faking of the Soviet Avant Garde.

The Soviet Avant Garde (incl. Chagall and Kandinsky) blazed a trail through Art History which was stunted too soon with the advent of Socialist Realism.

James Butterwick is one of the world’s leading dealers, and experts in the field of Ukraine and Russian Art. He tells us what occurred when a flood of newly-discovered works appeared after the fall of the Berlin Wall, 98% were found to be fake!

Email artsocballinger@gmail.com or visit www.theartssocietyballinger.org.uk

Brew’s Company over-60s café

Fri 26, The Bull pub, Risborough Road, Stoke Mandeville HP22 5UP

A monthly café that provides over-60s with the chance to socialise and meet new people in a relaxed and friendly environment.

There will be a music and singalong session led by well-known local entertainer and DJ Dan Blaze. Free tea, coffee and cakes on offer, as well as a free raffle and bingo. If you would like to speak or give a demonstration at a future event or for more details, email: caroljenkinsnews@gmail.com

Weston Turville Historical Society

Fri 26, 8pm

Weston Turville Village Hall, HP22 5RW AGM followed by a talk from Dr Glynn White on The Law and Hostelries of Weston Turville. www.wthsoc.org.uk

Wendover Repair Café

Sat 27 , 9.30am-12pm

Wendover Library HP22 6DU

Expert bike mechanics, Barry Rowe and Barry Maskell, are joining the Wendover Library Repairs Team to offer bicycle repairs. So take in your bikes and your beloved broken stuff and the experts will do what they can to repair them.

Contact frances@spokenwordltd.com or jenny.summerfield@hotmail.com for further information. See p16.

Wendover Singers Summer Concert

Sat 27, 4pm, St Mary’s Church, Wendover

Featuring both adult and children’s choirs, the extended concert will support National Armed Forces Day. Raffle, bar and refreshments will be available. www. wendoversingers.com

Cream Teas

St Mary’s Church Weston Turville Sun 27, 3-5pm All Welcome

WENDOVER MUSIC

For 2026, we are delighted to bring you two concerts:

Sunday 13th September 2026 Peter Holder (organist)

Tickets £10 (Students in full time education £5)

Sunday 4th October 2026

Lumas Winds (wind quintet)

Tickets £25 (Students in full time education £10)

REGULAR EVENTS

The Saxons Are Coming!

Until 1 November 2026

Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury

Explore Buckinghamshire’s Saxon past.

Yoga and KundaDance classes

Guide Hut, Manor Cres, Wendover, HP22 6HH

Weds, 9-9.45am & 10-10.45am Chair Yoga www.happywellyoga.com/all-classes/ chair-yoga

Fris, 9-10am Slow Flow Yoga

Fris, 10.15-11.15am, KundaDance www.happywellyoga.com/all-classes

Special offer: free first KundaDance class available all summer!

Seated exercise classes

Mons, 2-3pm

Aston Clinton Baptist Church, HP22 5EX Tues, 2-3pm

The Ark Stoke Mandeville HP22 5UT Weds,1.15-2.15pm Wendover Health Centre HP22 6LD Thus, 2-3pm Weston Turville Village Hall HP22 5RW

Details: www.activeinthecommunity.org.uk/ seated-exercise. All classes £3 per session, cash on arrival. Book in advance with amelia. evans@aitc.org.uk or 07399 748803. both concerts are at 4pm at St Mary’s Church, Wendover

Yoga with Alice D

Mons, Wendover Mem Hall, (term time)

10-11am, Mum and Baby Yoga

11.15am–12pm, Yoga with Movers

12.15–12.50pm, Yoga Tots

Mons, Halton Village Hall, HP22 5NG

7–8.15pm, Pregnancy Yoga

8.30–9.45pm, Women’s Yoga

Weds, Wendover Mem Hall, (term time)

10.30–11.30am, Nurture Baby Massage 12–1pm, Women’s Yoga

Sat, Wendover Woods, (Spring to Autumn)

8.15–9.30am, Women’s Yoga in the Woods Website: www.yogawithaliced.com

Busylizzy classes:

Mons, St Mary’s Church, Wendover 1pm, Baby Massage.

1.45pm, Postnatal Yoga (babies welcome). Tues,St Anne’s Hall, Wendover 10am, Postnatal Pilates (babies welcome). Thurs, Wendover Memorial Hall 10am,Postnatal Circuits (babies welcome). 1.15pm, Baby Music.

Contact Emma to book on: 07418 609829. www.busylizzy.co.uk/wendover

Yoga with Sarah St Anne’s Hall, Wendover Mons, 7.15 - 8.15 pm Weds, 6.15 - 7.15 pm & 7.30 - 8.30 pm Thurs 9.30 - 10.30 am. Email: sarahyoga@sky.com

Simply Walks and Cycle Rides

Wendover – Tues: Weekly walks from the Clock Tower, leave 10am. Socialise after at Wendover Christian Centre.

Aston Clinton – Thus: Leave Aston Clinton Park at 10.30am. Meet by ‘Your Café in the Park.’ Refreshments afterwards. Register 15 minutes beforehand at both locations.

Aylesbury Cycling UK – Suns. Easy pace: every 1st and 3rd week of the month, about 30 miles. Newcomers: each 2nd and 4th week and about 20 miles. www.cyclinguk.org/ group/aylesbury-cycling-uk. See p30.

Knit and Natter

Tue, 2-4pm,Wendover Library Meet 1st Tuesday each month.

Liz Brown Yoga

Tues, 7pm, Wendover Memorial Hall Fris, 10.30am, St Anne’s Hall 1:1 Yoga Therapy by appointment. Also online classes. www.lizbrownyoga.co.uk 07941 425187.

Diamond Bridge Club

Tues 6.45 for 7pm, Ellesborough Village Hall, HP17 0XA

A friendly club who play bridge in a relaxed environment. Any questions or if you would like to join, email barbara.barnes@me.com

Cracklewick Morris

Tues, 8.15-10.15pm

Halton Village Hall, HP22 5NG

All-inclusive mixed Morris side who meet most Tuesdays for dance practice. All welcome –musicians and dancers. No dance experience needed. Email cracklewickmorris@gmail.com

Compassionate & memory cafés

Wigginton: First Wed, 1.30-3pm, The Sports Ground Community Café, HP23 6HH

Great Missenden: Last Wed, 11.30am, GM Library, HP16 0AL, www.bit.ly/3Zqn5RH.

The Halton Memory Café, Chiltern Neuro Centre: First Fri, 10am-12pm, run by Ashridge Home Care For further information email Abbi at hello@ashridgehomecare.co.uk

Chilterns Light Network

Weds, 7.30 for 8pm

Wendover Memorial Hall

What’s going on in the world? Are we being told the truth? Explore new perspectives through talks and discussion in this lively and open minded group.Many topics - something for everyone. Make new friends. Check schedule on the website below. £5 non members. www.chilternslightnetwork.org or email ChilternsLight@proton.me

Halton Art Group

Thurs,1.30-3.30pm

Halton Village Hall, HP22 5NG

Join the fun with a small local Art group. £15 per session. A tutor attends every 5 weeks. Refreshments provided. Tel: 077538 41590.

Fitness and Fun for the Over-60’s

Thurs, 2-3pm, Stoke Mandeville Community Centre, Eskdale Road

Every other Thursday afternoon. Refreshments afterwards. clerk@stokemandeville-pc.gov.uk.

JULY 2026

Wendover u3a Talk

Wed 1, 10am, St Mary’s Church, Wendover HP22 6NL

“Barrow to Baghdad and Back Again” with Philip Caine.

Chilfest 2026

Fri 3-Sat 4, Cow Ln, Tring HP23 5NS

Totally Tribute Friday. Bands from the 80s and 90s on Saturday. www.chilfest.co.uk/

Tring Choral Society Concert

Sat 4,7.30pm, Tring Church

Tickets from a choir member or www. tringchoral.org.uk.

Afternoon Tea for TV Air Ambulance

Sat 11, 2.30, Great Missenden, HP16 9AA. Tickets £10 from Samways/The Post Office, Great Missenden. Call Jill York: 07846 534301. jillelizabethyork@yahoo.co.uk.

Planning ahead?

Here’s the next Wendover News production dates. To ensure we have enough space, email newsdesk @wendovernews.org or advertising @wendovernews.org If you want to be included, let us know as early as possible.

Ad and submission deadline (18:00)

Summer 2026 15 June 26

November

Winter 2026 9 November 26

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strategic obligations imposed by central government, which may change depending on who is in power, such as the current obligation to provide 95,000 more homes across the county to help meet the current government housing targets.

How the system works

Submissions for new developments arrive from developers or other parts of the council. Each is handled impartially and evaluated against strict and detailed criteria. These criteria have been developed over a long period and represent “best practice” and current thinking about community, society and land use. They are technical in nature and sometimes can be quite difficult for non-experts to fully understand.

In the local plan, these criteria are collected and applied on a county-wide basis which provides a ‘helicopter view’ of how the county may change over the next 20 years. It outlines how projects will interact and work together to benefit Buckinghamshire residents. The local plan also includes some detail about specific sites and urban areas, where they are important.

Earlier this year there was a public consultation which asked for suggestions for parcels of land that could be evaluated for their usefulness and inclusion in the local plan. Those were particularly related to residential development sites. Buckinghamshire Council is assessing all of them for both suitability and availability. Those which pass the tests will be included in the local plan.

This summer, around mid-July, Buckinghamshire’s Draft Local Plan will be made available for public consultation again, before being sent off for detailed inspection by a government-appointed independent Planning Inspector and their team.

The consultation will involve a series of

A41 roundabout and Woodlands

By Richard Byford

If your journey sometimes takes you via the roundabout at the end of the A41 dual carriageway near Aston Clinton, you will soon start to see some major changes. Over the next year, the existing roundabout will be demolished, and a new ‘hamburger’-style roundabout with traffic lights will be built. The new layout will be around three times larger than the existing roundabout, and Aston Clinton Road will be widened. The Taylor Wimpey project is part of the Hampden Fields development. It will form the link from the A41, through Hampden Fields to the Wendover Road, over the existing railway, and onwards to the Stoke Mandeville bypass. (see map at right).

roadshow events where residents can query Buckinghamshire Council directly, before submitting any comments about the plan. Confirmation of the date and locations, will appear in Wendover News’ summer issue, which will be published in the first week of July.

Don’t let your view get lost in the noise

The term ‘public consultation’ may be a little misleading. When a national or county authority asks for comments, it doesn’t really want millions of people shouting at the same time. In practical terms, it is looking for a useful number of considered opinions from organisations or people who speak for the communities most affected. It’s hoping for confirmation that the overall plan is sound, with constructive comments on elements that are not.

Angry messages of outrage and indignation are just a distraction to the planning team – a steady stream of complaints will be lost in the noise. A single, well written statement, carrying the weight of a substantial part of the community, supported by good evidence, is more likely to be seen and acted upon.

In this issue of Wendover News, the team has written about development issues in the locality Two are in construction now, two are speculative developments that may be evaluated before the local plan is adopted (expected at the end of 2027), and one is the outcome of the previous local plan dating back over a decade.

You might feel like getting actively involved in some way. You can start by inviting family, friends or neighbours to discuss issues in the local plan. It could be in your home, or in one of the local cosy pubs or coffee houses.

Significantly, it will also eventually create a route for a dual carriageway from Stoke Mandeville, across Wendover Road, through Hampden Fields and across the enlarged A41 roundabout and finally linking up with the A418 to Wing at Bierton. This piece of the road (the ‘Eastern Link Road’) will enable the creation of the next large development, Woodlands. It will also involve construction

The funnel of influence

Once the Local Plan consultation is open, you will each be able to go into Buckinghamshire Council’s web page for the consultation and add your comments. Keep your message as precise as possible and provide evidence to support your comments.

Your opinion may be more useful if it is channelled through a recognised organisation. For example, you could join one of the existing groups in Wendover or your village that is set up to lobby for change and common sense. Wendover Society and Stoke Mandeville Village Society are obvious examples, as is Climate Action Wendover/ Weston Turville.

There may also be local branches of national bodies, special interest groups such as BBOWT, RSPB, business networks and sports organisations. You may be able to join some of these organisations just for the duration of the consultation, or you might choose to become a regular member.

Many of these will already be in conversation with your parish council, whose final compilation of comments will carry the most weight.

By Richard Byford

A contacts list of some of these organisations will be in the summer edition of Wendover News, available during the first week of July.

of a new canal bridge, and pass the eastern edge of Kingsbrook.

Woodlands will be a combination of new facilities and developments. At 495 acres, it will be about the same size as Hampden Fields and Kingsbrook (which is to the north) – though that does not include an additional 250 acres set aside as a nature reserve at Kingsbrook.

Not just houses

An important aspect of Woodlands is that it will contain 1 million square feet (102,800 square meters) of commercial and enterprise workspace. It is projected to create around 4,500 jobs, complementing nearby hightech facilities, and covering much of the land between the residential area and the industrial units around Arla.

Showrooms for Hampden Fields Phase 1. This is an eight to 10 year project.

Sports enthusiasts will be pleased to hear that a 40-acre sports village is planned, with pitches and athletic facilities, plus a new hotel and conference centre. Land is allocated in the plan for a two-form-entry primary school and additional community facilities.

There will be space for up to 1,100 new homes, compared with the 3,000 in Hampden Fields, including custom-builds, 220 “affordable” homes and 60 residential extra care units. Around 344 acres (roughly 58% of the total site) will consist of nature-led recreational open spaces and parkland. Presumably, that will include a lot of trees.

The scheme is being delivered for the council through Buckinghamshire Advantage, in partnership with developer Barratt Redrow. Buckinghamshire Advantage is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the council and was established to drive economic growth, deliver essential infrastructure, and manage development projects across the county.

The roundabout, Hampden Fields and Woodlands are all part of the previous Aylesbury Vale District Local Plan and the established Aylesbury Transport Strategy.

Locals grill Hampden Fields developer at Bedgrove church

By Simon Eccles

Residents affected by the huge Hampden Fields housing development, coupled with the link road between the A41 and Wendover road roundabouts, were invited to a public meeting at Bedgrove’s Church of the Holy Spirit, on 30 April. It was hosted by Jake Treliving from Ward Williams, a project management company that is acting as intermediary between the builder Taylor Wimpey and Bucks Council.

Hampden Fields will take eight to ten years to complete in three phases, and will eventually comprise about 3,000 new homes in the former farmlands between Bedgrove, Weston Turville and Aston Clinton. It will be followed by the planned 'Woodlands' 1,100 home estate (see previous story) northwest of the Woodlands roundabout where the A41 dual carriageway currently ends.

Bucks Council responds to New Road diversion criticisms

By Simon Eccles

Local drivers will have experienced the interminable construction of the new roundabout on Wendover Road over the past couple of years. This is now largely complete, though still limited to 20mph.

The exit east from Hampden Fields will eventually be a two-lane Southern Link Road leading to the A41 "Woodlands" roundabout at Aston Clinton.

Building this road has required the diversion of the formerly straight New Road linking Weston Turville near the shops to the A41 junction by the Holiday Inn in Aston Clinton. The diversion opened in January and there was much comment locally and on social media about its complex series of short straights and right angle bends, with a mis-matched "chicane" in the middle..

At the Bedgrove meeting, residents were heavily critical of this road, which some said is dangerous. “Will we have to wait until somebody is killed before something is done?” asked one resident.

Wendover News first approached Buckinghamshire Council for comment in March. On 18 May Peter Strachan, Buckinghamshire Council’s cabinet member for planning, responded. He wrote, "The newly realigned road was designed by consultants on behalf of Taylor Wimpey to comply with planning requirements and has a design speed of 20-30mph, meaning

Residents at the Bedgrove meeting raised concerns about sound-proofing barriers that will be erected at the Wendover Road end of the new road, with some saying trees would be a better option as they look better and don’t need maintenance. There was also concern about what construction will do to local water flows, with worries about ditches overflowing if they are not cleared.

Another major concern was traffic flows. Mr Treliving showed diagrams of the modified Woodlands roundabout, described on the bottom of page 8.

ROZELLE SCHOOL OF DANCING

The "chicane" has been modified since this photo was taken in March.

ie the speed at which the road can be used safely. It will form part of a development so the road layout reflects the minor estate road status that the route will take on.

"A few short-term alterations have been made to the road alignment to ease the flow of traffic through the chicane, and traffic signals will be introduced at the new crossroads junction that has been formed with the Southern Link Road.

"The developer has been asked to arrange for the design/layout to be Road Safety Audited and the independent Road Safety Auditors will review the works on the ground and report back their findings for consideration by the developer and the Council. Should any changes be required as a result, it will fall to the developer to fund them.”

Mr Strachan also wrote that buses and large trucks currently obliged to use the diversion route will be eventually be directed onto the Southern Link Road when it is completed.

There were multiple questions about pedestrian routes in the area and he pointed out where traffic light controlled pedestrian crossings were to be sited. He also explained that construction is being phased so that the roundabout will stay operational for almost all the time, for minimal disruption.

Some residents felt that even when completed, there would be long rush hour delays on the A41 junctions to and from Aylesbury and that they were likely to cause problems on many other routes and residential roads throughout the area.

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Developer appeals 650 house planning denial in Stoke Mandeville

By Richard Byford and Jo Durden-Moore

Stoke Mandeville has a lot to it, but some of the best bits are hidden in the fields that circle the village. Many people may only see it as a line of houses either side of Station Road with a railway bridge in the middle.

This may change in the coming years, as developers Manor Oak and Richborough Homes have lodged a planning appeal against their previously refused outline planning application, in which they proposed: “Up to 650 dwellings, local centre, country park, multi-functional open space, community orchards, community allotments, locally equipped areas of play, multi-use games areas, sustainable drainage system features, landscaping, a mobility hub, enhanced pedestrian connections and associated infrastructure including a new pedestrian footbridge across the railway line and new footway/cycleway connection to Stoke Mandeville railway station. Proposed vehicular access sought from Risborough Road and Wendover Road.”

Stoke Mandeville Parish Council and many residents objected to the development proposal and Bucks Council refused the application last October. Now it is being put to the Planning Inspectorate for appeal.

Planning refused twice before

The site has a long and contentious background, having been refused planning twice in the last 20 years and the developers had a previous high court appeal overturned. They are now likely to be relying on the fact that central government has imposed an allocation of 95,000 homes to be built in Buckinghamshire over the next 20 years, and claiming that Buckinghamshire lacks the allocations needed to build the number of houses required during the next five years.

Mid-Bucks MP Greg Smith is opposing this development and has recently been campaigning against unplanned speculative developments here, and in other parts of his constituency.

The site in Stoke Mandeville village was not listed as a firm development site in the latest Buckinghamshire Council draft Local Plan, just as a site that required further investigation as to its suitability. The new Local Plan for Buckinghamshire, though not yet completed, is likely to also contain a similar

assessment. In addition, the site is outside of the ‘settlement boundary’ as set out in the Parish Council’s previously proposed and current Neighbourhood Plan, due for public referendum imminently.

Trench warfare

Residents around the village say its character is being “destroyed piece by piece” as developers push ahead with housing proposals.

Local anger has intensified after fields behind the Woolpack pub were carved up with trenches as part of ongoing archaeological survey works linked to the appeal process.

The developer intends to dig 146 trenches to support its appeal, a move many locals see as heavy-handed. The proposed trenches are the purple lines on the site map at right. Photographs taken by residents show deep scars already cut across open countryside beside the Woolpack, prompting fears that the landscape is already being irreversibly altered before permission has been granted.

Many fear the cumulative impact could permanently change the identity of Stoke Mandeville and its neighbouring villages. “This is no longer about one planning application,” said one local resident. “It feels like the countryside around us is being chipped away from every direction.”

Wildlife campaigners have also raised concerns about habitats being lost and animals being pushed from habitats as green fields disappear under development pressure. With multiple proposals still under consideration, residents say the coming months could prove decisive for the future shape and soul of this much-loved part of the Vale.

An action group has been set up by residents and can be accessed at: www.sm-ag.co.uk

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Local News

Rectory Homes’ proposal opposed by Parish Council and local petition

An outline planning application for 85 new houses on Aylesbury Road, Wendover, has been filed by Rectory Homes with Buckinghamshire Council. Wendover News’ March issue carried this story on the cover, after Rectory Homes circulated a leaflet locally explaining what it hopes to build.

Following that, an online petition set up by a group of Wendover residents gathered over 1,650 names in opposition, plus about 300 on a paper petition. These were submitted to Bucks Council on 12 May.

Wendover Parish Council unanimously voted to oppose the application, saying that the field near World’s End “serves as the gateway between the National Landscape and Wendover.” It added “We support (and thank) all the work done by a group of volunteers to oppose this plan and have submitted our objection to Buckinghamshire Council.

“While the Parish Council notes that this proposal is for up to 85 dwellings only and that access is the sole matter for determination at this stage, [it] considers that the application remains unacceptable in principle and does not mitigate against the conclusions of a previous application that was rejected on appeal for this site.”

The previous Local Plan for Bucks concluded the site was unsuitable for building. A 2017 application for a larger development was rejected due to the site’s landscape, settlement and visual importance.

The residents’ petition group stated that “Rectory Homes completed a leaflet drop, however they omitted the whole of Halton Lane (the residents who will be most impacted). Several residents said the first they knew of the proposal was through coverage in Wendover News or from neighbours.

“This was really the point at which the local residents came together. We organised and distributed our own leaflets to ensure everyone locally was aware. We invited people to join a WhatsApp group to keep informed of key dates and developments. We designed and printed banners [below] to highlight the affected areas and encourage wider engagement and set up an online petition as another way residents could voice their objection, as well as submitting their comments/objections to Bucks Council.

“Given the significance of the proposal, residents understandably expected a wider and more transparent level of engagement from the outset. The level of response, once awareness spread, demonstrates how strongly people feel about protecting this key

RURAL

green space from development.”

If you are concerned about this application and wish to have your say, the official deadline is 3 June, although comments can still be submitted until the case is heard by a panel committee, likely to be in mid-July.

The outline application can be viewed on the Bucks Council website, at this shortened URL: https://bit.ly/4duTewV. Alternatively, you can email planning@buckinghamshire.gov.uk

By Simon Eccles

Young Enterprise award goes to John Colet students

Jane Larkham writes: “ This year’s John Colet Young Enterprise team, Next Wave, came home with a trophy from the Journey Award event at the Showcase in Bucks New University on 1 April. The team was recruited from the year 12 Business Studies students, who found themselves representing John Colet School in a competition including 27 Buckinghamshire schools, most of which were grammars or private institutions.

At first, the students had to get to know one another and their head of HR, Keira, had to mould them into a functioning small business team to make and sell a product.

Each team member bought shares, typically investing £5-10. They were also able to enter small competitions to earn prizes of about £50, all for their initial purchases, for example, a ‘Dragons Den’ supported

by HS2’s contractor EKFB. Lucas and Jack thrashed out the initial ideas and Lucas was declared managing director.

They also raised funds by selling doughnuts to other pupils at special events. Later, when they started to produce their product, it was sold to parents at parents’ evenings.

An important back-room job was completed by Sam, whose entry won the “Meet the buyer” competition. Meanwhile, jobs were distributed, including making display boards, searching out sales opportunities, and using social media for publicity and marketing.

So, what was this successful product? It was coconut shells treated with beeswax on the outside to give a shiny finish and decorated with vibrant colours inside. An ideal cost-effective gift, easy to use for storing all sorts of small objects in a beautiful way. The shells came from a supplier in Bedfordshire, so not too far away. Everyone was involved in making the product from the raw materials.

Heinrich was the finance manager. The revenue was about £500 and overall profit about £300, but the decorated shells are still selling. This was among the most financially successful enterprises.

At the end of the project, Heinrich will have to liquidate the company and distribute the profit, but how? Suggestions included: according to initial investment; evaluating the usefulness of product or production ideas; or hours of effort expended making the product or other tasks.

Everyone agreed that, although some had been reluctant starters, the experience of Young Enterprise had taught them all lessons, particularly about working in a team where everyone has to put in time and effort.

The presentation was the scariest part, taken on by Lucas, Jack, Will and Keira. Four of the most intense minutes of their lives, taking them all out of their comfort zones. Still, only Will (corporate law) and Oscar (maybe his own business) have business ambitions so far.

Pub Trail plans afoot

This year’s August Bank Holiday Pub Trail, linking all seven of Wendover’s Pubs, will now

start on the Friday instead of the weekend.

As before, customers can buy a drink then collect a stamped card in each pub, to enter a prize draw for a free drink in every pub for a month!

Save the date: Friday 28 August, until last orders on Monday 31 August, Organiser Leigh Porter says there will be more activities and even live music en route being planned.

Residents voice concern about plans for eco-huts on Hale Lane Simon Eccles writes: Forestry England, which manages Wendover Woods, has done some preparatory infrastructure work on a field it owns off Hale Lane, next to Baldwin’s Wood. It says it is working with an eco-tourism operator called Unyoked, to install three “low impact off-grid units on the site.” The units are small huts on wheels, rather like the fashionable shepherd’s huts.

The first local residents knew was in late April, when contractors dug a trench to lay a water main to the field. There was no planning application on record, and no sign of the customary notification sheets on nearby fences. The residents set up a WhatsApp group to discuss this and informed Wendover News, which approached Forestry England for clarification and comment.

Its response was “Forestry England has entered into an agreement to lease the land for this purpose as part of its wider approach to supporting responsible, sustainable access to the nation’s forests. The accommodation is intended to provide quiet, low impact stays that allow visitors to experience and connect with the natural environment in a sensitive and sustainable way.

“The units themselves are classed as caravans rather than permanent buildings and are being progressed under permitted development rights and the relevant statutory framework. The works on site are limited in scale and have been carefully considered with environmental sensitivity in mind.

“The project has deliberately been kept very small scale, with only three units proposed, specifically to minimise impact on

the surrounding landscape and local area. The units are off-grid, low impact in nature and designed to sit sympathetically within their setting.”

FE also addressed locals’ concern about traffic levels, as Hale Lane and nearby Taylors Lane are single-track with narrow passing places, and already prone to problems if more than two vehicles meet each other, saying “In relation to traffic concerns, due to the limited scale of the project, visitor numbers will remain low. The intention is to create quiet, low-intensity accommodation rather than a high-volume tourism destination.

Some residents were sceptical, with one writing: “This has already been massively disruptive, with huge trucks causing havoc on a lane that they should not be on, and attempts to get them to come in from the top have fallen on deaf ears. This does not bode well for what they consider engagement.”

On 19 May four of the residents expressed their concerns at a meeting of Wendover Parish Council Planning Committee. The Councillors agreed to ask Buckinghamshire Council (the responsible local planning authority) for a response.

Blockbuster film to be screened at St Mary’s Church on 17 June

A new envrionmental impact film, ‘People’s Emergency Briefing,’ is being screened in Wendover and entrance is free! The film presents a clear, practical way to understand how climate change could soon affect life in Wendover and have permanent effects on future generations.

Climate Action Wendover (CLAW) is hosting a free screening of the 50 minute

The same hut type being installed on another site.

film at St Mary’s Church, Wendover, from 7.30 to 9.30 pm on Wednesday 17 June. One of more than 850 community screenings taking place across the UK, this revealing film brings together leading UK experts on climate and nature to explain the latest evidence on extreme weather, food security, health, and cost-of-living challenges facing our country. It aims to deliver frank facts about the threats, but also the enormous benefits if Government implements genuine emergency action.

CLAW member Anna Taylor says: “The film is part of a national campaign, gathering momentum, that is calling on the UK government to give the public a clear briefing on the climate crisis and step up action to strengthen preparedness and adaptation. While the film is shocking it is also encouraging. There are compelling economic reasons for acting now on Net Zero and we can and must respond with urgency and commitment.”

Many of those attending the previous screening commented that although the facts are alarming, they felt a sense of optimism about confronting the challenge together and seeing a pathway to a better future.

Supported by Buckinghamshire Council and part of a national network of Growth Hubs, it provides access to advice, funding opportunities, skills support and connections.

Lynsey continued: “What stood out from the meeting, was something more positive – the strength of the local entrepreneurial spirit. Across Buckinghamshire, businesses continue to support each other, share experiences and collaborate, and that sense of community is one of the county’s greatest assets. BBF complements Wendover’s existing business network (centred mainly on the High Street), adding another layer of connection and external expertise.”

See farming in action at Buckmoorend

Farms across Britain will be opening their gates on Sunday 7 June, for the 20th anniversary of Open Farm Sunday.

Buckmoorend Farm is once again playing its part. You can find it off Missenden Road, leading away from Butlers Cross, (HP17 0UT), with the entrance off the sharp bend that heads towards Chequers. Many readers will already know it for its popular farm shop.

Steph Hares, co-owner with her husband Daniel, says, ”Open Farm Sunday is a, fun, free and informative family day out offering a chance to build a stronger connection with your food and the countryside. Join us to learn more about how healthy soils, earthworms and pollinators all play an important part in producing food responsibly. Find out why hedgerows matter, what owl boxes and bug hotels bring to the farm, and how we create habitats that help wildlife thrive alongside food production.

It’s free but you need to book tickets either through the QR code (left) or via www.bit.ly/4dxQhvt

Help for businesses around Wendover

Lynsey Dumm, Head of marketing, communnications and events at Buckinghamshire Business First (BBF) writes: “Local business communities like Wendover’s play a vital role in keeping our high streets vibrant and resilient. They are where relationships are built, ideas are shared, and practical support feels most relevant.” Running alongside the Parish Council’s April Showcase event in the main library, BBF held a networking meeting for local businesses.

The large meeting room at the Library was busy with representatives from high street retail and hospitality, and also some from businesses that are run from homes or commercial premises, with names unfamiliar to most residents.

Staff from BBF listened to local businesses and shared how support is available. It is a business-led, not-for-profit business support organisation that works with more than 15,000 businesses across the county.

e-mail: paul@ph-as.co.uk Tel:01296 621162 www.ph-as.co.uk

The event also heard from local businesses. Alongside Philippa Batting MBE, CEO of BBF, Kate Rumsey of Rumsey’s Chocolaterie shared her experience of drawing on support at different points in her journey as a small business owner; while fellow local entrepreneur Ben Boulter spoke about the value of collaboration, sharing ideas and building networks.

Lynsey added: “Their insights reinforced a key message: no business needs to navigate challenges alone. Being part of a local network can open new opportunities, build confidence and create a sense of shared purpose.

BBF runs a year-round programme of events and networking, bringing businesses together to learn from each other and from expert advisers. It also supports local employers through Bucks Skills Hub, helping connect businesses with schools and colleges and support workforce development.

Membership of BBF is free to any business operating in Buckinghamshire, giving access to support, events and resources. To apply for free membership go to https://bbf.uk.com/ join-and-get-involved

For businesses in Wendover, events like this are a reminder that the local business community is a real strength — and that by working together, sharing experiences and accessing support, businesses can continue to adapt and thrive.”

“Throughout the day there will be arable farming talks, a chance to meet our animals, watch a butchery demonstration, get crafty in our kids crafting corner, take part in some fun activities as well as meet our wonderful local suppliers. Our shop and kitchen will be open all day to keep you well fed and quenched!” Details: www.buckmoorendfarm. co.uk.

Connecting Stoke Mandeville

A recent Stoke Mandeville Parish Council meeting discussed how residents might make better connections with their fellow parishioners. Over 1,400 households are outside the village centre, residing in Harbourn Manor, Mandeville Park, Stoke Leys, Stoke Grange and part of Hawkslade.

Aylesbury Town Councillor (and recently elected Mayor) Sherrilyn Bateman highlighted that these have access to an excellent online newsletter for Stoke Mandeville, that has been going for some time.

Mayor Bateman said “It tells you what you need to know. A small reminder of dates and direct information. But people need to sign up, if they don’t know, they won’t.”

Stoke Mandeville Parish Council is looking for volunteers to help them make connections with ‘village’ parts of the parish, so that more people can participate in the community. If you know anybody who lives in the Aylesbury part of the parish, do get them to sign up for the online letter at bottom of the council’s website: www.stokemandeville-pc.gov.uk

Kate Rumsay spoke at the BBF meeting.

Istanbul Meze & Grill powers back to life!

Wendover's Mediterranean restaurant, Istanbul Meze & Grill, re-opened on 6 May, after three and a half months' involuntary closure due to a power line failure that affected the whole building. "Nobody expected it to take so long to repair. People thought we had closed for good," says Sevgi, who owns the restaurant with her husband Erman, who is the chef.

The pair are used to overcoming challenges. They first opened the restaurant in December 2019, and only months later everyone was hit with the Covid lockdowns. For many months no customers were allowed inside sit-down restaurants and bars all over the country. Erman and Sevgi were determined to keep going, and quickly introduced online ordering, running the deliveries all around the areas.

The following year they battled with Aylesbury Council to obtain a licence to set up tables outside – lockdowns were still on-and-off and even afterwards people were often nervous about being indoors.

Although Wendover Parish Council was willing to allow Rumseys and Whitewater to have outdoor areas, this was on the Manor Waste, which it owns. But Istanbul, as well as No.2 and Tres Corozones opposite, had more of a problem at first, dealing with the remote Aylesbury Council licensing department (now replaced by Buckinghamshire Council). Since then they've kept up the licence so there are tables outside as the year warms up.

Another plus came in 2022 when Istanbul was awarded Wendover Parish Council's "Service with a Smile" award in its annual awards.

The couple rent their building at 31 High Street, with a substantial lease, but last year the owner put it up for sale. Although the sale sign says "Business unaffected," people still asked if Istanbul was moving, so Sevgi and Erman put a sign in the window to stress that it wasn't.

When the power line failure hit, some people thought it must be a permanent

closure, despite another sign in the window and Sevgi's social media posts promising to return. At long last, she was able to announce at the end of April that Istanbul would be back at the start of May! The winter hadn't been kind to the exterior, so a good scrub around saw it all clean and ready for customers again.

Now that the restaurant is back in action, customers will recognise the original menus, which are described as Mediterranean, though largely based on Turkish favourites such as doner and shish kebabs or kofte, with rice, salad and trimmings. Sevgi says that these are authentic Turkish dishes, though the presentation is modified a bit "for English tastes." So chips are an option, naturally!

Pizzas are also on the menu, half-price on Wednesdays. There are "all-day" English breakfasts until 4pm, and "bottomless brunches."

You can still order takeaways online (www. istanbulwendover.com), but now you need to collect them yourself, as Sevgi and Erman are busy inside.

If you do choose to dine inside, there are tables for up to around 50 diners, while the back room has a bar with an Eastern flavour, plus a huge mural of the actual Istanbul city. Above that are hung 30 medals on ribbons. Sevgi explains that they are her running awards – she has run half-marathons in many cities. But never a full marathon so far, she says, and not for a couple of years since her little daughter arrrived to distract her!

By Simon Eccles

The Bell in Stoke Mandeville will return with a new sports theme

Jo Durden-Moore writes: The Bell in Stoke Mandeville village is set for a major transformation after new operators announced they have officially signed the lease and will take over the pub from the beginning of June.

In a video shared on social media, the new owners revealed that The Bell will be completely refurbished and opened as a dedicated sports bar, promising a new experience for customers. The new leaseholders are Roly May and his wife Katy May, the same couple behind the successful relaunch of The Russell Arms in nearby Butlers Cross.

The pub has been closed for the past six months and has seen more than five different landlords over the last eight years, with previous operators struggling to establish a clear identity for the venue.

The new owners believe their sports-led concept will finally give the Bell its unique place within the village. They have ambitious plans to reopen in time for the World Cup.

The refurbished venue will feature pool tables, dartboards, fruit machines and televisions showing a wide range of live sport. Football coverage is expected to play a major role, alongside “every single sport you can think of,” according to the owners. Sports memorabilia will also form part of the décor, helping create a lively atmosphere. The Mays say they will document the refurbishment journey online over the coming weeks and may soon be calling on the public for support as the project develops.

Brew’s Company launch draws dozens to new social event

A new monthly social gathering aimed at bringing older residents together has made a successful start in Stoke Mandeville Village, with around 70 people attending its first event at The Bull pub. Brew’s Company, launched in April by local resident Carol Jenkins, has been created to help tackle loneliness and isolation among the over-60s while providing opportunities for friendship, conversation and community involvement. Jo Durden-Moore from Wendover News, went along to find out what it was about, despite being well under 60 herself... [Ed]

The initiative is being supported by the East Buckinghamshire Community Board, with funding secured to help establish the project and develop a regular programme of talks and activities. The Bull has increasingly become a venue for local organisations and community groups. Landlords Jon Gates and Dave Butler provided refreshments and cakes free of charge for those attending. Jon said the pub was pleased to support an event designed to strengthen community connections and that “the whole ethos of The Bull is to provide a community hub where local people can meet up and socialise.

Happening at Wendover Community Library...

Wendover Talks

“Home-Build Surgery,” by speaker Sam Duggans

Thursday 11 June 2.30pm–4pm

With 22 years of experience working in the construction industry, Sam Duggans is presenting at Wendover Library to offer practical tips on how you, the homeowner, can manage your project – working to ensure works are completed on time and in budget. With recent national press attention reporting on ‘cowboy builders’, this talk and Q&A is a good opportunity to understand more about the risks and how to appoint a builder, offering tips for a successful project whether it’s new double glazing, landscaping or a more substantial refurbishment.

Scope is key to obtaining a true price, and avoiding “scope creep,” unexpected costs and disputes, before starting work. Sam will also show how to structure payment terms and methods of valuation which won’t leave you exposed. For agreements he’ll cover how you can use your own terms when making

Providing the refreshments was our way of giving something back to the community and thanking local residents for supporting the pub.”

Guests enjoyed talks from local TV and film extras Theresa Ross and Nicola Draffan, who shared stories from their work on productions, including East Enders, Downton Abbey, Call the Midwife and Midsomer Murders. Yasmeen Malik of Buckinghamshire Adult Learning spoke about courses available locally and offered advice on avoiding scams on mobile phones and digital technology.

Carol Jenkins said the idea for Brew’s Company developed from conversations with older residents who described feeling isolated following retirement, bereavement

enquiries, to establish your position.

Sam is a freelance quantity surveyor and project manager. He works with contractors, subcontractors and private clients in London and Buckinghamshire. He is a Chartered Construction Manager and member of the Society of Construction Law.

Ask one of the volunteers at the library counter to add your name to the attendance list, or email frances@spokenwordltd.com

“Wild London” A Talk and Photographic Journey of London’s Wildlife by Speaker: Jon Mason (the early birder) Thursday 25 June 2.30pm–4pm

Our cities, even London, can be as much a haven for wildlife as they are a home for us. Jon Mason (aka @theearlybirder) has agreed to come to Wendover Library to give a fascinating talk about the creatures that have made a success of living alongside us.

He has found many “intelligent opportunists” – remarkable animals that have been able to adapt and take advantage of the transient habitats that we create.

Jon Mason was born and grew up in London and draws from years of observing wildlife in our capital and other

or changes in family circumstances. Many people felt disconnected from the community life but still wanted to socialise and remain active.

The launch was opened by Cllr Chris Poll, chair of the East Bucks Community Board, and attended by Bucks councillor Peter Strachan, plus representatives from Stoke Mandeville and Wendover parish councils. The next Brew’s Company gathering will be at The Bull on 29 May from 10am until 12.30pm. Activities will include a travel presentation by Brian Butler, a talk on artificial intelligence by gaming expert Rob Sandberg and decorative mending demonstration by local seamstress Marion Dalkin. New volunteers and speakers will be welcome.

cities to illustrate this exploration of urban nature.

Places are limited so ask one of the volunteers at the library counter to add your name to the attendee list.

Get your bike fixed at Wendover Repair Café

Barry Rowe and Barry Maskell are joining the Wendover Library Repairs Team on Saturday 27 June from 9.30 – 12pm, to offer bicycle repairs and tune ups. Both the Barrys are expert bike mechanics, having spent most of their professional careers in the bikebuilding trade.

They will be working at the Repair Café over the summer months in the library’s garden area, where customers can sit and wait with tea and cake.

The rest of the repair team will be working as usual, to fix clothing, electrical and mechanical items, jewellery, ornaments, toys and gardening tools. Oh, and dog toys too!.

Take along your bikes and any other beloved broken stuff that you want to keep and use and the experts will do what they can to repair them.

More information from Frances Tipper at frances@spokenwordltd.com

Wendover unites for inspiring 24-hour charity Fit-a-thon

By Jo Durden-Moore

The end of April saw an incredible display of determination, generosity and community spirit as the third yearly BML Fit-a-thon brought Wendover together for an inspiring 24-hour fitness challenge. Devised and organised by BML Personal Training owner Emma Eustace, the non-stop event combined cycling, weights sessions, stretch classes and PT workouts in support of two important local causes.

Over the course of 24 hours, an impressive 314 fitness slots were filled by 121 participants, with some dedicated supporters

booking 15 or more sessions throughout the challenge! From spin sessions to strength training and recovery stretches, the atmosphere was upbeat and supportive from start to finish, even during the small hours overnight.

More than £7,000 was raised through sponsorship, raffles and participation fees. The proceeds went to Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity and Aylesbury Foodbank. Organisers said they were overwhelmed by the generosity shown by both participants and the wider community.

A team of instructors and volunteers

worked tirelessly to keep the event running smoothly and safely, while maintaining a warm and encouraging atmosphere. The Fit-a-thon was not only a fundraising success but a celebration of resilience, teamwork and the positive impact of community fitness on physical and mental wellbeing.

Participants described the experience as challenging, rewarding and hugely uplifting, with many forming new friendships and supporting one another through the toughest sessions. Hopefully the BML Fit-a-thon will become a regular fixture in the Wendover community.

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Dave Walls, at left, was one of the relay of instructors for the event. Last year Dave was awarded “Instructor of the Year” by Spinning UK & Ireland.

Culture, Visual and Performing Arts

Written and compiled by Jo Durden-Moore

It’s been another busy month across Wendover and the surrounding villages, with a wonderfully eclectic mix of live music, community arts and creative events attracting audiences of all ages.

The Dead Cherry Pickers Music Society (aka The Dung Beatles) recently took to the stage at the Limelight Theatre in Queens Park for a very special performance, the first time the band had performed an entire evening of their own original compositions.

Formed during the pandemic lock-down of 2020 as a creative recording project for local musicians and songwriters, the group has built a loyal following. Audiences were treated to an engaging evening, spanning original indie pop, acoustic, funk, prog and jazz, with a handful of covers.

Steve Hillier of The Dead Cherry Pickers Music Society said: “It was a real blast debuting our original stuff live, the sell-out audience was terrific. Listening to so many unfamiliar songs in one go is no mean feat, so thanks to everyone who came along and gave us such a warm response.” Hosted by Rotary Rocks, the evening raised an impressive £1,027 for Young Carers Bucks.

Real Magic Live Music continued its strong run of intimate live performances at the Legion Club with a memorable appearance from Pictish Trail, aka Johnny Lynch.

Fresh from completing work on his new album, ‘Life Slime,’ Johnny was accompanied by his full live band, entertaining audiences not only with his music but with his wonderfully eccentric stage presence, including inviting brave audience members to try out his now infamous slime.

Fellow performer Seamus Fogarty followed with a beautifully observed and often humorous set of songs on subjects ranging from Geoffrey Chaucer to DIY coffins. The duo created a warm, engaging atmosphere that kept the packed audience captivated.

Wendover Choral’s Spring Concert, ‘In The Key of Triumph’, held at a packed St Mary’s Church, proved another success. There were works by Antonio Vivaldi alongside Joseph Haydn’s Nelson Mass. Musical director Kenton Brigden reflected that: “There is something unmistakable about the sound of D major, it is bright, resonant and full of energy. Composers have repeatedly turned to this key when writing music of joy and splendour.” The programme fully embraced that sense of triumph and celebration.

Kenton was joined by the Wendover Players, a talented ensemble of local musicians whose playing featured trumpets, timpani, double bass and viola. The four soloists, including two from the local area, delivered standout performances. Many concert-goers agreed it felt like an evening worthy of a major concert hall. One audience said: “We could be at the Royal Albert Hall, this is so good!”

Lindengate’s popular Rest & Refresh Pop-Up Café welcomed more than 120 visitors of all ages, including some four-legged companions, as part of the Open Garden season. Guests enjoyed homemade cakes, soup and tea while relaxing in the flourishing gardens, accompanied by the Kings Langley Community Choir. Thankfully, the rain stayed away, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the gardens at their peak. Further events are planned throughout the season, and details can be found at www.lindengate.org.uk

Mikron Theatre Company returns to Lindengate on 5 June with its latest production, Top of the Wold – a heart-warming musical adventure for an evening of outdoor theatre. Gates open at 5pm for refreshments and garden strolls before the performance at 7pm. Visitors are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets and picnics for a memorable summer evening. Tickets from www. lindengate.org.uk/events

Party in the Park returns to Stoke Mandeville Village Community Centre Park for its fourth year, on 6 June from 12pm – 9pm. BBC Three Counties Radio presenter Andy Collins will help host the festivities throughout

the day, with three headline live music acts performing alongside a range of local community performers.

The event will also feature subsidised children’s activities, craft stalls, a BMX trail, food vendors, craft beer and community groups, including the bell ringers of St Mary’s Church. See www.stokemandeville-pc.gov.uk

Fame the Musical arrives at the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre this summer, with a cast of local performers in support of the Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity. Packed with iconic songs and dance numbers, the show follows the lives of students at New York’s High School of Performing Arts as they chase dreams of stardom. Tickets from www. atgtickets.com/aylesbury or from Aylesbury Waterside Theatre box office.

HELIOS – A Festival of Folk and Fable hosts its fifth year at The Barn at Dundridge Manor, St Leonards from Friday 19 to Sunday 21 June, bringing a midsummer weekend of music, storytelling and creativity. The festival will feature six events for both adults and children, with folklore, imagination and acoustic music in an intimate and atmospheric setting. Tickets start from £20 for adults and £5 for children depending on the event, with a full weekend Festival Pass for £60. Advance booking is strongly recommended via www. echormusic.com/helios

Yardfest returns to Hampden Meadow in Wendover on 11 July from 12.30 - 11.30pm, following the tremendous success of last summer’s debut event. Hosted by the Craftyard team, the festival promises a day of family-friendly entertainment, with live music,

street food, independent stalls, children’s activities and a licensed bar, bringing together people of all ages in a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. Tickets and further information from www.weareyardfest.co.uk

Local children and teenagers can take centre stage this summer in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr, through Dramarama’s summer holiday theatre camp running from 17-29 August. Open to young performers aged 8–17, the programme helps build confidence through singing, acting and dance, culminating in a fully staged theatre performance. Early booking is strongly advised via www. dramaramaclubs.uk.

Looking further ahead to the autumn, A Celebration in Song charity concert will bring together performers from across Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire for a very special musical event at the Centenary Theatre on 31st October and 1st November. Presented by the highly acclaimed Berkhamsted Theatre Company and The Sing Out Project, the concert marks 100 years of local community performance while celebrating the transformative power of singing and its positive impact on wellbeing. Profits from the performances will be donated to the charity Mind. Organisers are particularly keen to encourage community participation whether through singing, performing, or helping backstage, with opportunities open to all ages and experience levels to create a truly inclusive celebration of music and performance. Anyone interested in taking part is encouraged to register before the closing date of 1st August. Further details can be found at www.berkhamstedtheatre. co.uk and www.singoutproject.org

If you’ve ever fancied learning classical singing techniques from a professional music coach, Wendover Choral is offering an opportunity to do exactly that this June. A new singing workshop series, taking place on 4, 11 and 18 June at 7:45pm, will be led by musical director Kenton Brigden. He has worked widely with choirs and ensembles

and is known for his warm, engaging and encouraging approach. He is deeply enthusiastic about helping others experience the joy of singing beautiful music regardless of experience level or ability.

The workshops will explore The Golden Age of Hollywood and are open to singers of all levels, with no auditions and no need to read music. The full three-workshop series costs £30. Details and tickets from www. wendoverchoral.co.uk

Friday Art Club with Jaany Ravenscroft-Hull at Gusto Café, runs from 2 - 3pm until 10th July. Weekly sessions include sketching, watercolour, collage and digital art, with a different creative activity each week. An exhibition of participants’ work will be displayed at Gusto Café towards the end of term. Drop-ins are welcome. For information email art.hub.ox@ gmail.com

Wendover Arts Festival will be over by the time you read this, but we’ll report back in the next issue. www.wendover-arts-festival. co.uk

The annual Bucks Art Weeks festival returns from 6-21 June as a vibrant county-wide celebration of creativity. As the county’s largest visual arts event, Bucks Art Weeks brings together hundreds of contemporary artists, makers and craftspeople, with exhibitions in studios, galleries, churches and community venues across the region.

Visitors can not only to view and purchase original artwork, but also meet artists in person and gain insight into their work. Wendover and its surrounding villages will once again play a particularly strong role in the festival, with a diverse range of local artists opening their studios and exhibition spaces to the public.

Wendover’s independent gallery, a little bird told me, has participated in Arts Weeks since the first one in 2009. It is showcasing three contrasting artists. Jay Nolan-Latchford, (pictured right with Melanie Bird), presents mixed media paintings filled with texture and atmosphere; Chris Noel’s striking lino-cut

landscapes celebrate the Chiltern countryside through traditional printmaking techniques; and Heidi Ines’ finely crafted pottery features whimsical hand-drawn imagery.

Elsewhere in Wendover, artist Christian Twelftree will again open his studio on Chiltern Road, exhibiting his oil paintings inspired by the woodlands and changing seasons of the Chiltern Hills. Visitors can also discover the work of Ingleton & Freemantle at Boddington West in Wendover, with a ollection of figurative and oil paintings, some in support of local children’s charities.

Across the wider local area, Bucks Art Weeks will feature artists working in painting, ceramics, photography, textiles, printmaking, sculpture and mixed media, with many drawing inspiration directly from the Chiltern landscape and village life. The event continues to highlight the remarkable depth of artistic talent flourishing across Wendover and neighbouring communities. For full details see www.bucksartweeks.org.uk

Bacombe Hill –a place of history, nature and serenity

By Paul Niddler (BBOWT)

We are truly blessed to have one of the Berks Bucks and Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust (BBOWT) nature reserves right on our doorstep. But just how well do you know Bacombe Hill? I suspect most people are far more familiar with Coombe Hill and its monument, which lies a little higher and a little further up beyond it.

I have the privilege of running the band of hardy volunteers who maintain the site.

Previously you could just walk straight up Ellesborough Road from the Shoulder of Mutton to reach the gate at the entrance to the reserve. However, that stretch of Ellesborough Road is now blocked by the HS2 construction, so you have to divert along the temporary Bailey bridge and then turn left. The path up Bacombe Hill starts to the right of the junction between the bend of the old Ellesborough Road section and the start of temporary road across to Bacombe Lane.

The reserve covers some 25 hectares of mixed woodland, scrub and chalk grassland. Comprising a largely north-facing chalk scarp slope, it is a site of special scientific interest for its rare chalkland flowers, orchids, and junipers, plus rare insects such as the juniper shield bug, and butterflies like the silver spotted skipper, seen on the reserve last year for the first time since 2017.

Take part in 30 Days

Wild in June

By Simon Eccles

Throughout the month of June, BBOWT is inviting everyone to get closer to nature by taking part in 30 Days Wild. It says “This might be through a sensory safari near your home, or being inspired by how wildlife uses sight, sound, smell, touch and taste to

It is also a scheduled ancient monument, with two burial mounds dating back to about 2,400 BC and other associated archaeological features such as ditches and hollow ways.

The reserve is on the approach up to the Coombe Mill monument, the area around which is maintained by the National Trust. The name may derive from a corruption of Beacon Hill, where warning beacons may have been lit. Or possibly the hill “by” or below Coombe Hill.

Either way it gives superb views out over the Aylesbury vale, (just ignore the scar that is HS2 if you can). On a clear day all the Rothschild houses can be seen, as well as distant views of at least four counties.

Late spring sees the chalk grassland on the upper ridge burst into life with clustered bell flower, thyme, and six different orchids including fragrant, pyramidal and spotted orchid, and my personal favourite flower, the little yellow rock rose. In fact the orchids should be showing well as this edition of Wendover News arrives.

As the air warms, chalkhill blue, orange tip and marbled white butterflies are to be seen on the wing along with the occasional green hairstreak. Bees buzz, crickets chirp and on warm summer nights elusive glow worms may be seen.

Overhead you will see kites, buzzards, maybe a kestrel and sometimes a passing raven. On appropriate Wednesdays you also get a fine view of the RAF Halton passing out parade flypast!

Walkers on the 85 mile Ridgeway National trail pause for a rest on their way from

survive. Did you know that some flowers have evolved to look like bees? Or that birds can see some colours that we can’t?

A feature in summer diaries for over a decade, 30 Days Wild has attracted more than three million participants nationwide and helped people to get outside, to enjoy and connect with nature as part of their everyday lives.

New for 2026, the family activity packs will include nature-inspired trading cards to swap and collect, helping to uncover fun

Avebury to Ivinghoe Beacon, and locals and visitors alike take a welcome “mindfulness” break in the peace and solitude. Some may recall that line from the downland poet Alfred Williams: “still to find and still to follow, joy in every hill and hollow.”

The woodland is mostly confined to the very upper and lower slopes, and we work hard to prevent the rare chalk grassland from turning to scrub. A task that for countless centuries would have been done by grazing sheep.

Since the second world war over 80% of our natural chalk grassland has been lost, to either grain production, or allowed to scrub over. Bacombe Hill’s remaining area provides a rare link back to the grassland that would have been found almost everywhere after the retreat of the last ice age.

Walkers, dog walkers and all visitors are more than welcome to enjoy this priceless asset right on our doorstep. All we ask is that you leave no litter, and please don’t light bonfires or BBQs, especially on top of the ancient burial mounds.

Sadly bottles, cans, discarded disposal BBQ’S and even an abandoned trampoline have been found on the burial mound recently. Broken glass iespecially s a big danger to wildlife, walkers and particularly dog walkers.

I run regular working parties on the reserve, and if you would like to join the band of friendly hard-working volunteers who do so much to maintain this site for all, then please contact the volunteering team on the BBOWT website: www.bbowt.org.uk

facts about the UK’s wildlife and where to find species like hedgehogs, butterflies and birds. Adults will receive a postcard to send to a loved one, with tips on how to do wild things in their garden, local greenspace or from home.

BBOWT says “This year’s challenge sees fun, distinctive, themed activities to take inspiration from each week, with no pressure to do something every single day.”

Find out more about 30 Days Wild at: www.wildlifetrusts.org/30dayswild

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Wendover Armed Forces Day

By Sean McCarthy

Armed Forces Day takes place on the last Saturday each June, falling this year on 27 June. It is a chance for communities across the UK to show appreciation for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces including currently serving personnel, service families, veterans, cadets and civilian support.

Given the current complex geopolitical backdrop, it is sometimes easy to forget that the British armed forces comprise thousands of people with varied skills and activities beyond direct combat. RAF Halton has strong connections with local people and many service personnel have set up home in the area after leaving the services. In fact, RAF Halton is an excellent example of how local activities of the armed forces have benefits that reach far beyond the traditional military role.

RAF Halton became one of Britain’s great technical training centres, teaching engineering skills to thousands of apprentices who went on to service aircraft and work throughout the larger UK aviation sector. In addition to engineering training, Halton has been an RAF centre for skills as diverse

as dentistry, catering, media and sports. Halton has developed excellent sporting facilities which have long been shared with the wider community. The Halton Tennis Centre, associated with RAF tennis since the 1920s, today supports both service personnel and civilian players, including disability tennis and activities for local special-needs schools. Some readers may remember the RAF Halton Saddle Club which enabled lucky local youngsters to learn to ride as well as supporting the Riding for Disabled initiative.

Community volunteering from RAF Halton

recruits has also been strong, including community programmes restoring wild habitats and working on the construction of the Waddesdon Greenway cycle route.

Other important roles of RAF Halton have been to provide Military Aid to Civil Authorities (MACA). This aid can range from technical and logistic support during flooding or other emergencies and RAF Halton very noticeably supported mobile testing units and vaccine rollouts as part of Operation Rescript during the Covid-19 epidemic.

On the topic of health, possibly the most famous aspect of RAF Halton’s support to the public was the establishment of The Princess Mary Hospital in Halton, run by the RAF, which was the first hospital in the world to use antibiotic penicillin on a large scale in the 1940s, following clinical trials in Oxford, saving the lives of service personnel and later millions of civilians.

On Armed Forces Day people will naturally hold differing views about military action and international conflicts. Yet the story of RAF Halton and the former Princess Mary Hospital also reminds us that service can take many forms, from pioneering medical treatment to supporting communities during national emergencies and volunteering on local projects. Armed Forces Day offers an opportunity to reflect not only on defence, but also on innovation, resilience and public service.

Lindengate sows Seeds of Change in young people

By Simon Eccles

The Lindengate horticultural and garden based charity site at Worlds End is offering an educational programme to help young people gain skills, and access to healthy food, through inclusive, hands-on growing, cooking, and environmental learning, rooted in sustainable horticulture and community connection.

Its programme is called Seeds of Change, and is open to anyone aged six to 25. The aim is to use food growing, cooking and

environmental learning, to improve wellbeing, tackle food insecurity, and build skills, confidence and leadership.

The photos here show one of the sessions, when 15 students aged 18+ from the Buckinghamshire Supported Internship. Jenny Morris, volunteers and digital communications coordinator, says they “spent the session starting work on increasing our growing capacity by creating new beds in our Heritage Orchard as part of the Seeds of Change programme. Working in small groups they completed the project of creating three new beds and growing vegetables. The sessions focused on practical activities to help develop their knowledge and understanding of growing as well as applying their maths and science skills.”

group sessions; youth-led volunteering and leadership; community events and pop-ups.

An annual Food Futures Festival will be held, with the first on 5 September this year.

The programme aims to support more than 600 young people in the first year. It’s offering a range of activities, adapted to the seasons. These include one-off visits and workshops; one to eight week learning programmes; holiday camps; term time

P KERNAN

Jenny says “We work collaboratively with schools, councils, external experts in cooking, learning, horticulture and conservation, and community organisations and interest groups to deliver meaningful, adaptable programmes that meet local needs.”

For information, including how to volunteer or get involved, see www.lindengate.org.uk or email info@lindengate.org.uk

TREE SURGERY LTD

HS2 update

Spring Chamber making progress

Work started in April to create the underground chamber in a meadow near the Kings Farm Shop. Having laid a temporary road track for site access across the field from Nash Lee End, a large hole was dug to access groundwater at the Stoke Brook spring (see main photo). Concrete tanks have now been installed to collect the water and then measure the flow going downstream into the brook. The project should be finished by the end of July to meet the Environment Agency’s deadline to have the system available in August before the annual “recharge” of the underlying aquifer.

WHS2 also managed to get the metal security fencing removed behind the houses in Lionel Avenue, as requested by residents. This was put up in 2024 and was supposed to be removed within a few months.

Green Tunnel getting closer

Installation of the concrete shell sections of the final “fourth” phase of the main HS2 tunnel running alongside Wendover is now getting close to Ellesborough Road. Inside the tunnel large quantities of concrete are being laid, to form an emergency walkway with a “robust kerb” to avoid damage to the tunnel walls if a train should ever derail. Small manoeuvrable “Fiori” mixer trucks are being used to deliver concrete in the narrow space available.

Wendover Dean design revision

An updated version of the design of the HS2 railway as it passes through Wendover Dean has been submitted to Bucks Council for approval, incorporating minor changes made since 2021. There’s more detail about the eventual landscaping and a minor increase in

peak night time noise due to changes to the trains. We are talking to Bucks Council and HS2 about revising the Small Dean and Nash Lee sections due later this year.

Better noise mitigation

From our recent meetings with Bucks Council and HS2 officers about reducing train noise, we have concluded that they are simply “following the process” and can’t spend more public money on mitigation. We believe that their process doesn’t actually reflect the full requirements of the HS2 Act. Aided by Greg Smith MP, we’ve now raised this with the HS2 chief executive and should have an update for you next month

Future Landscaping

We are also following up on the “Wendover Link” landscaping proposals with both HS2 and the Council and will report progress as the designs evolve this summer.

Issues with HS2?

If you’re affected by construction activity, please contact the HS2 Helpdesk team on 08081 434 434 (24 hours per day ), or email hs2enquiries@hs2.org.uk. It helps to have photographic evidence and please get a complaint reference number so we can follow up issues as needed.

The concrete tanks of the spring chamber before being buried. Photo: Simon Eccles

Green tunnel at Bacombe Lane. Photo: Simon Eccles.

Lighting has been installed in the north section of the Green Tunnel so concrete laying and later other work can be performed inside. This photograph was taken at dusk on 16 May, a Saturday night when construction work had finished.

Fiori concrete truck at the tunnel mouth. Photo: Murray Cooke.

Photo: Simon Eccles.

Plug-in solar panels: are UK homes ready?

By Sean McCarthy

Plug-in solar panels, already popular in Europe and often referred to as “balcony solar panels,” are being prepared for UK rollout. However, while Government ministers, including Ed Miliband, say they could be available in UK shops such as the German retailer Lidl this summer, current electrical regulations mean that legally they cannot yet be plugged directly into a standard domestic socket until new UK safety rules are finalised.

Plug-in solar panels are small photovoltaic (PV) electricity-generating units designed for homes and intended to be easier and cheaper to install than permanent rooftop PV systems. These panels have been used in German homes for many years and are now being installed in large numbers across several EU countries.

Payback

European manufacturers claim that installing a pair of 300-watt panels could reduce a typical household electricity bill by up to 30%. With a purchase cost of around €400–€800 and little or no installation cost, the systems could potentially pay for themselves within six years.

Some of the main advantages are the lower initial cost of generating at least a small amount of solar electricity and, particularly in Europe, the ability for tenants to install systems on rented properties and take them with them if they move house.

Get wiring checked first

However, in the UK, the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), which publishes the UK Wiring Regulations, has urged households to check electrical safety carefully before using plug-in panels.

Mark Coles, head of Technical Regulations at the IET, said: “Before anyone buys a plug-in solar kit from a supermarket shelf, they need to be aware of the condition and capability of their home’s wiring. Many UK homes have ageing, modified or poorly maintained electrical installations. Introducing a generating source into wiring that hasn’t been checked could expose homeowners to risks that are not immediately obvious.”

The IET further states that “plug-in solar systems remain not yet legal to use in the UK, as regulators continue to assess how they can be safely integrated into domestic installations”.

Current technical reviews highlight concerns about how electricity flows through older wiring, how protective devices behave when power flows in both directions, and how multiple plug-in units may interact during faults or grid outages.

It appears likely that plug-in solar panels will eventually become available in the UK, but they are unlikely to be treated as simple appliances that can just be plugged into a domestic socket without additional safeguards or regulation.

As with all electrical work, it is advisable to seek advice from a qualified electrician, several of whom advertise in Wendover News. Note that from October 2026 the EAS (Electrotechnical Assessment Specification), which is an industry agreed framework, will require installations of Low Carbon devices to be carried out by holders of the relevant qualification. This means that even a normally qualified electrician will no longer be allowed to work on these categories without the appropriate training. This also includes EV charging installations.

Currently in the UK, plug-in solar panels are also “G98 notifiable,” meaning that each system needs reporting to the Electrical Network Operator (ie UK PowerNetworks) within the area. When purchased via a supermarket retailer, questions arise over how this can be enforced nationwide?

Issues such as visual impact and siting will also have to be addressed before widespread

adoption of “balcony” solar panels. Some villages and historic buildings may not be considered suitable as locations for these very visible vertical panels.

A spokesperson from Evie Energy, a renewables specialist working in our region, said “While plug-in solar can offer a simple and cost-effective entry point into renewable energy, it is important to recognise that safety, compliance with UK electrical regulations, and the long-term integrity of a property should always take priority over convenience.”

Starting in Weston Turville

Nevertheless, plug-in solar panels may eventually form part of a wider mix of renewable energy and carbon reduction initiatives, such as “Sustainable Streets”, which encourages residents to share ideas about energy efficiency, and the “Energise Buckinghamshire” community-owned domestic solar project.

Both programmes are currently running in Weston Turville and organisers hope they may spread further afield. Buckinghamshire” community-owned domestic solar project. Both programmes are currently running in Weston Turville and organisers hope they may spread further afield.

Wendover Shed

Lord Lieutenant opens Shed's own-build expansion

An important expansion to Wendover Shed’s facilities was officially opened by the Lord Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire, Lady Howe, on Saturday 2 May. A lunchtime event was attended by more than 60 Shedders, partners and friends. Also there was Greg Smith, MP for Mid-Bucks, who has visited before to see the Shed's community-focused activities.

For the past eight months, the Shed members have been constructing a new well-insulated and heated wooden building of their own design, which has been fitted out as a roomy warm space where they can meet and work in the winter months. It has more or less doubled the floor area.

This frees up space in the two existing workspaces. Those started started life as aan old wooden stable block, at the side of Wendover Parish Council's allotment off Hogtrough Lane (HP22 6JN), plus a steel Portakabin donated by GE Healthcare.

The Shed first opened in 2023 and membership is currently around 90, with a regular 60 or so turning up for one or more of the three sessions every week. They are a lively, knowledgeable and enthusiastic group, with ages ranging from 20s to 90s.

Warming up for next winter

This popularity meant the original two working sheds could get quite crowded, so building activities as well as general socialising tended to spill out onto the opensided decking stage that was built in the first year (its roof houses solar panels). In cold weather this isn’t so practical and discourages atttendance, so the “warm space” will be a cosier refuge in the chilly months.

Lady Howe first visited Wendover Shed two years ago, and this time she praised the progress that has been made since. She said “My first visit was during a very cold snap. And my goodness, the Shed was a chilly place! There was one small area that was warm, but in the workshops and so on, you had to be made of pretty certain stuff to keep smiling. So now here we are in a space where, in the winter, working can continue and the gathering can be a warm reality. I know that many Shedders will have been working extremely hard to complete this magnificent extension!”

Wendover Shed is a registered charity and part of the worldwide Men’s Shed Associations, that started in Australia as non-profit self-help organisations, originally for men in particular who were feeling socially isolated and at a loss after retiirement, unemployment or bereavement. There are

now over 1,180 Men’s Sheds across the UK. However, as Wendover Shed’s name also suggests, it’s not confined to men as there are active female members too.

Anyone with an interest in making things, mending them, learning how to work with tools, or just wanting to meet up with like-minded people, is welcome as a member. They can meet around practical activities, drink tea and coffee, eat cake and biscuits, and most importantly, have a natter.

Lady Howe added: "Given the opportunity to connect and to socialise in purposeful activity offers a really powerful way of improving both mental and physical health. I don't doubt that this wonderful space will enable many Shedders to find renewed confidence purpose and a sense of identity that may have faded over time."

The whole complex is completely off-grid, with solar panels and batteries installed by qualified electrical experts among the Shedders. As part of the latest build, new solar panels were installed to double generating potential, and the system was extended for safety and efficiency.

These provide enough power to run heavy machinery such as lathes and power saws as well as LED lighting, plus a fridge and the indispensable kettle. A stove runs off bottled gas and there’s a waterless eco-loo.

Currently Wendover Shed runs three sessions per week, on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, with times on the website at www.wendovershed.org

Membership is £15 per year, plus small contributions for drinks and biscuits.

By Simon Eccles

Wendover

The opening event, with chair Bob Duggan, Lady Howe, Greg Smith MP and Shed leader Dave Walls.

Shedders Barry Michel (left) and Mike Greasby, settling in to the new warm space.

Repairs

• Minor repairs to complete refurbishments

• All works caried out using traditional methods and materials

• Oak Timber Frame repairs & replacements

• Lime works that include Lime plastering/rendering brickwork and pointing

• Specialist Paint removal from masonry/timber

• All aspects of ground and drainage works

• Bespoke joinery windows/ doors/ oors/staircases/kitchens/ wardrobes

• All aspects of roo ng and cast-iron aluminium guttering

• Free Advice and project management

• Pre purchase repair works related costed surveys (chargeable)

• Fully insured with over 30 years of experience

Club Corner

RAF Air Cadets

Cadets of 2409 (Halton) Squadron are seen here with their new gazebo, which was partly funded with a “generous grant” from Wendover Parish Council.

The squadron will use it as a base for cadets at events such as the upcoming Wendover Juniors Football Tournament, at which they will be volunteering in June, and as a recruiting platform for the squadron.

The squadron is keen to hear from young people in Wendover aged 12-16 who would like to join the Air Cadets. Adult volunteers are also welcome to apply. More details from www.raf.mod.uk/aircadets or by emailing oc.2409@rafac.mod.gov.uk

2409 Squadron parades on Monday and Thursday evenings from 1900-2130 at RAF Halton.

Wendover Junior Football Club

Paul Sitzberger writes: Wendover Junior FC is delighted to invite the local community to its annual Football Tournament 2026, taking place on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 June at RAF Halton, Chestnut Avenue, HP22 5PG. The tournament will welcome over 5,000 attendees across the weekend, showcasing grassroots football from ages six to 16. More than just football, the event is a celebration of community spirit, teamwork and youth development, bringing together players, families, local residents and businesses for a fantastic weekend.

Visitors can enjoy exciting matches throughout the day alongside food and drink vendors, shopping stalls and family-friendly

entertainment.

The club also welcomes volunteers and local sponsors who would like to support grassroots football and help make the event another huge success.

Wendover Bowls Club

Don Knight writes: At last the long-awaited day has arrived and we are able to venture out onto our green again to play a game. Unfortunately I didn’t get a chance to practice and the first outdoor bowl I played since last September was in a match against Waddesdon. That is my excuse and I will improve!

We have a full schedule of matches planned for the summer, both against local clubs and various leagues. The headache for the captains is trying to persuade members to sign up for matches. This not just a problem for our club – we have already had one match cancelled because the opposition couldn’t raise a team to play against us.

I have heard people say that they don’t feel they are good enough and don’t want to let the team down.

But no one plays badly on purpose (I can do it naturally!) and no one will ever grumble if you do your best.

Our Friday Open Evenings are now over but I hope that all those who came along enjoyed a taster of this most frustrating game.

The social side of the club continues with various evening events such as quizzes and music evenings, as well as our famous coffee mornings which raise significant amounts for charity.

There is always a quieter spell between the indoor and outdoor seasons and I hope I will have a bit more to report on next month.

Aylesbury Cyclists

Jeremy Scothern writes: This year Aylesbury Cycling UK is running new weekly Sunday Leisure Rides, intended for beginners or for anybody just wanting a nice easy bike ride! These rides are circular, about 20 miles long and at a pace to suit the slowest rider, with a break halfway. All you need is a serviceable bike, comfortable clothes and a spare inner tube, just in case.

Regular cycling is a great way to keep fit. It can improve both your cardiovascular fitness and your immune system. Cyclists are also often ‘biologically young’ for their age.

Cycling is great for us emotionally, reducing stress and increasing our endorphins level. It’s also a great way of making new friends, exploring our great Bucks countryside and

trying the many cafés we find on the way!

Anyone 18+ is welcome. Riding in groups is a safer way to cycle and we look out for you on the ride so you won’t get lost! We can also help with punctures or other problems during the ride.

Why not give us a try? We also run longer rides of 30 to 45 miles for more experienced cyclists.

Details from www. aylesburycyclinguk.org or email aylesburycuk@gmail.com

Wendover Cricket Club

Jonathan Seabrook writes: Wendover Cricket Club has made a great start to the season on the field, with the weekend teams having won all five of their completed matches so far.

This includes opening day victories in the Thames Valley League, with the 1st XI beating Denham (James Roan 4-46, Anshuman Pandit 53), and the 2nd’s beat Chenies (Jonathan Seabrook 6-28, Dave Cleary 83*). In the Sunday game at Cublington, Nick Roberts 72 & Calum Grainge 63 helped build a match-winning total.

The junior section is also in full swing across eight age groups, and with two girls-only teams.

The new cricket ground and pavilion on Lower Icknield Way (behind Wendover Heights vets) is now almost complete, with hopes for an open day in July – see next month’s issue for details.

To enquire about joining contact Dave on wccjuniorscontact@gmail.com or text

Jonathan on 07767 148119.

The club has a new Instagram social media site, follow@wendovercc where information is posted weekly.

There is also a new website at: www.clubsports365.com/clubs/wendover-cricket-club – the old Pitchero site has been phased out.

Scottish Country Dancing

Liz Mitchell writes: Our very busy Spring term, which included charity fundraising, tuition from guest teachers and our attendance at the Iberian Gathering in Cadiz, ended on a high with our Spring Dance. For the 14 dancers who went to Cadiz,

The high standard of teaching will continue this term when two other guest teachers, one from Berkhamsted and the other from Barcelona, will lead classes.

We’ll have live music to accompany one of the classes and also for our last evening of the season at the end of June.

In April we attended the Community Showcase, prior to the Annual Parish Meeting, this gave us the opportunity to meet members of the Parish Council, Buckingham Council and our local MP Greg Smith.

The highlight was meeting a lady who remembered living next door to our Founder Lucy Clark.

If anyone is interested in seeing what we dance, we’ll be participating in the Aston Clinton Family Festival on Saturday 13 June, when we’ll be putting our best feet forward and demonstrating some simple country dances – and perhaps encouraging some audience participation.

You don’t need to be a Scot to “Dance Scottish” – you just need to like moving to the rhythm of the wonderful reels, jigs and strathspeys (unique to Scottish dancing). It makes us happy and we’d like to share that as widely as possible.

If you’re interested in joining our classes, complete the ‘Join Us’ form on the website www.lucyclarkscottish.org and we’ll be in touch.”

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Wendover Parish CouncilView from the Clock Tower

Summer is a state of mind, not what the weather is doing – so let’s just say it’s now summer!

Getting out and about in Wendover

There are plenty of things to do in Wendover over the summer. Hopefully our open spaces are a great place to start – the pond, picnic areas, playground and fields between the high street and the church are perfect for a picnic, dog walk or just to run round.

Down at Ashbrook (known as Castle Park) we also have the increasingly popular skatepark along with the park and further space to run around. Sadly, those spaces will be losing a few of our more mature trees that have been inspected and found to be dying and dangerous. Mainly due to Ash die back. We have no option but to remove these trees, but as a net planter of trees they will be replaced.

At the start of June we have the Annual Fun Fair in Ashbrook (1st-7th Jun). This is a popular event which will take over most of the park. The skatepark and play parks should still be accessible but we do ask you to take care on the site. We also request that you respect residents and walk/bike/scoot to the fair if you can.

Those who attend in a car should expect parking to be difficult and should not add to the parking issues in that area.

We also have a save the date for your diary

Wendover Local Produce Market

in that our Picnic In The Park will be taking place Saturday 8 Aug from 12 noon to 5pm in Hampden Meadow. Lots of events and attractions as well as the increasingly popular dog show.

Supporting Wendover Community

With the long summer nights, and better weather, there are very few excuses not to get involved in the Wendover Community.

Wendover Parish Council is seeking dedicated individuals to stand for the role of Parish Councillor. This is a fantastic opportunity to get involved in shaping the future of our village/market town and ensure it remains a wonderful place to live, work and visit.

You don’t need experience, just enthusiasm and some time to commit. Applications need to be in by 26 June.

Visit https://tinyurl.com/5ajuxhdc, email clerk@wendover-pc.gov.uk or pop into the Clock Tower for more information.

There other opportunities in the community depending on your interests and abilities: Wendover Juniors Football Club are looking for under 13s for the 26/27 season. Training takes place at the John Colet School on Tuesdays 6-7.30pm. If you are interested please email: partners@wendoverjuniorfootball.org.uk

Wendover Youth Centre is looking for Trustees for this very worthy organisation, situated on the school campus next to the

swimming pool. If you would like to find out more visit www.wendoveryouth.co.uk

Our own Ivy Volunteers meet on the first and third Tuesdays of the month to remove problematic ivy in our parks and on our trees. It’s more than just ivy though, it’s also about making friends and getting outside. You can see the benefits of your work by the end of a shift!

Everyone can play their part as Wendover seeks to win the ‘Best Kept Village’ award for 2026. That may mean picking up and disposing of your dog mess, picking up a bit of litter blowing down the street, weeding the bit of path outside your house or keeping your garden or yard looking great.

Despite all the pressures Wendover faces we live in a gorgeous part of the world (let’s not mention the elephant in the room to our west!) and we do our best as a Parish Council to make this a great place to live. Judges will be coming round in June and July to judge our entry.

Finally you could get involved in our ‘Make Wendover Smile’ competitions. Hopefully, by now, you have got your seeds and they are growing (seeds are still just about available from most shops in the high street). We have prizes for tallest and quirkiest looking sunflower and are encouraging photos on Instagram/Facebook, using  #makewendoversmile or tagging @welcometowendover.

Wendover Parish Council l The Clock Tower, High Street, Wendover HP22 6DU l Tel 01296 623056 clerk@wendover-pc-gov.uk www.facebook.com/wendoverparish

Sat 20 June, 10am–2pm Manor Waste

Contact estates@wendover-pc.gov.uk

Stay informed about local news, events, and parish matters – sign up to receive our monthly newsletter straight to your inbox! Subscribe here: www.welcometowendover.co.uk/#subscribe

Sunday Church Services in Wendover

• St Anne’s: 9am Mass

• St Mary’s: 9am and 10.45am

• Wendover Free Church: 10.45am

St Anne’s Roman Catholic Church – 07753 633713 stanneswendover.uk

St Mary’s Church of England – 01296 696136 / 623123 stmaryswendover.org

Wendover Free Church – 01296 622354 wendoverfreechurch.org.uk

Next Parish Council meeting: 2 June, 7.4 0pm Main Meeting room, Wendover Library Information about upcoming meetings: www.wendover-pc.gov.uk

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