Wendover News March 2026

Proposal to build 85 houses on Wendover boundary

Haddenham-based Rectory Homes is proposing to build 85 houses on a field by Aylesbury Road, between Halton Lane and Worlds End Lane, in part opposite the former Village Gate pub.

In early February the company delivered 1,000 leaflets to local homes in a radius around the site, outlining its plans, with a map and an invitation to local residents to make their views known through an online form at www.rectorywendover.co.uk

The houses will be a mix of two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom designs, with 25% intended for rented and shared-ownership affordable homes transferred to a housing association. Sustainability is emphasised, with each house having EV chargers and air source heating, and some with solar panels.

The map shows the proposed layout, with access from Aylesbury Road leading to a series of short roads. About a third is shown as a green recreation area with footpaths, two small ponds, a children’s play area and trees. There will be public access for other Wendover residents, says Rectory Homes. In 2017 a different company, Nexus Planning of Addlestone, applied to build 175 homes on a larger plot in the same location. The former Aylesbury Vale District Council denied permission after opposition by Wendover Parish Council and residents.

The new Rectory Homes proposal is for about half that number of houses on a plot about half the size. As part of the proposal, the leaflet says that “financial contributions from this development will be secured via

legal agreement with the Council to fund substantial infrastructure improvements towards healthcare, highways, education and leisure, which will mitigate the impact of the new residents.”

Local influence is limited

However, as our story on p.19 shows, planning permission negotiations (known as “Section 106”) are largely out of the control of local residents or Wendover Parish Council. Wendover News spoke to George BethellVickers, head of land at Rectory Homes. He said: “The Section 106 is out of our control over how it is distributed,” he said. “Healthcare, highways, education etc are controlled by Bucks Council. It is up to local

people to apply pressure.” He encourages Wendover residents to comment in the online form, which may be used in presentations to Bucks Council.

“We welcome comment,” he said. “We totally understand that development is change and people are often wary about that. The rest of the community has wants and needs and we are open to that. We have given that message to the Parish Council.”

He expects the planing application to be made in about three months time and, if granted, he anticipates that the first houses on the plot will be ready in early 2028.

Wendover Parish Council is considering its response, says WPC clerk Andy Smith. By Simon Eccles

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

Contents – March 2026

Local News 8

Trubutes: Chris Richards & Helen Biggs 12

Culture, performing and visual arts 14

Hidden gems and cosy corners 16

Local Plan sew guidelines ....................... 19

Wendover u3a 21

Lindengate: Changing lives ................... 22

Local Saxon finds 23

Ralph Ludlow WWII schooldays 24

EKFB 26

Wendover HS2 27

The great Wendover tornado of 1950 ... 28

Club Corner 31

From the Clock Tower ......................... Back

Events – March 2026

Real Magic Walk

Sun 1 March, 11am. Real Magic Books

Celebrating the release of the brand new edition of The Icknield Way by Edward Thomas.

Writer Jack Cornish will join the walk to read something from the book before all head back to the shop for an in conversation event with local writer Will Burns. See p.14.

Spring Indoor Market

Sun 1, 12-3pm, Stoke Mandeville Community Centre, HP22 5UJ For Breast Cancer Now. Gifts, cakes, tombola and more...

Wills and Estate Planning Surgery

Tue 3, 12-2pm, Wendover Library, HP22 6DU

To book a slot email: iain@protrustconsulting. co.uk or call 01296 415700.

democracy, 11; Inspiring local education initiative, 18; Dealing with frequencies which affect us, 25; Chat - what’s on your mind? Remaining dates and full details will be posted on the website. £5 non-members. www.chilternslightnetwork.org. Email ChilternsLight@proton.me

Wendover Horticultural Society

Thu 5, 2.30pm, St Anne’s Hall, HP22 6JG Nikki Blagg, a volunteer for Horatio’s Garden, will speak about the history and the different widespread Horatio’s Gardens, which are so beneficial in their different ways.

Poetry Please

Published by Wendover Community News

CIC: A community-owned company.

Editorial Team: Sean McCarthy, Simon Eccles, Jane Larkham, Jo Durden-Moore, Jon Theobald, Wynne Byford and Richard Byford

Coordination, ads, social media and online: Wynne Byford.

Production: Jon Theobald, Richard Byford, Simon Eccles and Wynne Byford

Accounts: James Harrington

Distribution and deliveries: Peter Rayner and 67 other reliable volunteers!

Kimble & Ellesborough Horticultural Society

Tue 3, 8pm, Stewart Hall, Little Kimble, HP17 OXN

Euphorbias - Probably the Best Garden Plants in the World.

Timothy Walker, former director of Oxford University Botanic Gardens, will explain some of the natural history of euphorbias and their botany, describe some of the most desirable species and cultivars and suggest some planting associations.

Chilterns Light Network

Weds, 7.30 for 8pm

Wendover Memorial Hall, HP22 6HF Open minded and looking for meaning in your life? We provide a variety of topics & discussion. 4; How we promote local

Fri 6, 10.30am-12pm, Wendover Christian Centre HP22 6JG ‘Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better,’ Einstein. The theme will be ‘Nature’. As always, everyone’s welcome.

Cholesbury-cum-St Leonards Local History Group

Fri 6, 7.15pm for 7.45pm, St Leonards Parish Hall, HP23 6NW With Speaker, Sally Goodsir, Curator of Decorative Arts at the Royal Collection Trust. Her talk is entitled ‘Buckingham Palace Over 260 Years from house to the monarch’s HQ’ and will uncover the uses and history of the Palace from the 18th century to the present day. More details at www. Cholesbury.com

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LEGACY FAIRS

Antiques & Collectors Market Wendover Memorial Hall

Thursday 19 March 9am-2pm (Trade 8am) For updates Tel: 07543 524212 or email: p.hetheringtonwh@gmail.com

Entrance by donation to Charity

RAF Flypasts: To celebrate the completion of training at RAF Halton, flypasts will take place, weather permitting, at 13:30 on Wednesdays 4 and 18 March.

‘Six Inches of Soil’ Documentary Fri 6, 7.30pm, St Anne’s Hall, HP22 6JG CLAW will screen this inspiring story of British farmers standing up against the industrial food system and transforming the way they produce food. See p.14, Feb issue.

Chilterns Neuro Pop-up Art Weekend

Sat 7-Sun 8, Chilterns Neuro Centre, Wendover, HP22 5LX

Showcasing a variety of paintings, sculptures,

TRACEY BROOKS

jewellery, drawings, ceramic and other forms of art from local artists. Pop-up art weekend. org.uk. See p.14

Afternoon Tea

Sat 7, 2.30-4.30pm

Damien Hall, Great Missenden, HP16 9AA

In aid of Thames Valley Air Ambulance. Raffle, Gift and Produce stalls. Tickets £10, include tea and cake, available from Samways/The Post Office in Great Missenden.

If you would like to make a donation or to buy raffle tickets, please contact: Jill York: 07846 534301 jillelizabethyork@yahoo.co.uk

Craft Group

Weds 11 & 25, 10am-12pm, Wendover Christian Centre HP22 6JG Craft Group provides time, space and friendly company to work on any kind of craft project. Please bring your own materials or come to see what others are doing. Coffee served at about 11am.

Board Game Café

Thus 12 & 26, 2-4pm, Wendover Christian Centre

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

The Saturday Sleuths Sat 14; 10-11.30am,

Wendover Library, HP22 6DU

New group to be held on the second Saturday of each month. Each session will feature a group discussion around a popular crime fiction title.

At this first meeting you will be provided with the reading list and dates for the year. There will also be a short presentation and discussion around the history of crime fiction and the reasons for its enduring popularity. You’ll also get the chance to vote for your favourite fictional detective.

Free to attend. Tea, coffee and biscuits provided. Led by crime journalist and crime fiction fan Carol Jenkins. Please email carol@ the-investigator.co.uk with any questions.

Aylesbury Vale Stitchers

Sat 14, 2-4.30pm, Wendover Memorial Hall, HP22 6HF Patchwork – Bust the Rules and get creative! Christine Green has been practising and teaching paper cutting, patchworking, and creative textiles for many years. She loves recycling, repairing and reimagining textiles and giving them a new purpose. email: aylesburyvalestitchers@gmail.com

Strictly Cabaret

Sat 14, 7.30pm, Victoria Hall, Tring, HP23 6AA

A celebration of music in Tring, ending with dancing! Performances from the Tring Music

Partnership Zebra Jazz Band, Phoenix Big Band, Tring School Swing Band and Musical Theatre Workshop performers. Tickets: £25 adult, £15 student (U18s) in person from Fancy That, Tring (cash only) or online via this link: https://tr.ee/ADA35c

Tring Choral Society

Sat 14, 7.30pm, St Peter & St Paul Church, Tring HP23 5AE

The choir will be singing Vivaldi’s ‘Gloria’ and Haydn’s ‘Harmony Mass’, joined by four soloists and the usual orchestra of professional, local musicians. Tickets available from choir members and www.tringchoral.org.uk

Mother’s Day Remembrance

Sun 15, 10am-1pm, Chilterns and Bierton Crematoria

Free Mother’s Day remembrance event at both Crematoria. Open to all members of the community, particularly valued by those who may find Mother’s Day difficult.

Tel: 01494 724263

www.chilternscrematorium.co.uk

Tel: 01296 350019

www.biertoncrematorium.co.uk

RSPB

Mon 16, 7.30pm, Prebendal Hall Community Centre, HP19 7QW

‘Why Swifts Really Matter to Us All!’ by Edward Mayer. Though Swifts only spend

3-4 months with us (between April/May and August), while they are here, they bring spectacular aerial action and excitement to our urban lives. More info at group.rspb.org. uk/Aylesbury.

Wildlife in Magic and Myth

Tues 17, 7pm,Great MIssenden Memorial Centre, HP16 9AE

A brief update on Trust projects will be followed by refreshments and a quiz on the theme of Mythical Beasts and their Kin. Please reserve tickets at £6 from richardbirch60@ yahoo.com and pay on arrival by cash or card.

Aylesbury Centre of the National Trust

Thu 19, 7.30pm, Broughton Junior School HP20 1NQ Karen Wiles speaks on ‘Rationing and Cooking for Victory’. Details from Hon Sec, phone 07399 540626 or email aylesburycentrent@gmail.com, or Facebook. See p.31.

Spring Market

Sat & Sun 21-22, Wendover Woods, HP22 5NQ

The event will bring together a wide mix of local stallholders, from artisan bakers to independent makers and crafters. You’ll find

handmade gifts, seasonal treats, and plenty of inspiration for early spring. An ideal reason to take a stroll through the woods and enjoy the start of the new season. wendoverwoods@forestryengland.uk

Spring Charity Stall

Sat 21, 10am-2pm

Manor Waste, Wendover Wendover Evening WI will be holding their annual Spring Charity Stall at the monthly market. See the wide range of homemade cakes and preserves, plants and flowers, Easter crafts and gifts… all created by talented members. As usual there will be a chance to win an Easter Egg on the tombola!

Book Club

Sat 21, 10.30-11.30am, Wendover Christian Centre HP22 6JG No set books. Hear what others have been reading and if you wish, talk about something you’ve read – whether you loved it or not. Begins withrefreshments. All welcome.

Wendover Talks at Wendover Library

Thu 26, 2.30-4pm, HP22 6DU

‘If you can Google, you can AI’ - unlocking the Internet’s Newest Superpower. Presented by Rob Sandberg, Wendover’s Computer and Gaming Industry expert.

T HE L IONEL A BEL- S MITH T RUST

Supporting the Wendover & Moor Park Community since 1977

Here to help.

At The Lionel Abel-Smith Trust, we are keen to help individuals, families, and organisations across the Parish of Wendover and the Moor Park estate.

We understand the pressures of everyday life and want to ensure that those in need in our community have somewhere to turn for support.

If you would like more information about how we might be able to help you, please visit our website: www.wendovertrust.org

A beginner-friendly guide to Artificial Intelligence and how you can use it to help write emails, plan meals, spot scans and stay safe. Sign up to attend at the library counter. Free entry. See p.13 Feb issue.

Real Magic Book Talk

Thu 26, 7pm. Real Magic Books

Encounterism - book talk with Andy Field. Encounterism is a joyous immersion into the everyday pleasure and shared humanity we stand to lose in an increasingly digital world.

The Arts Society Ballinger

Thu 26, 7.30 for 8pm, Ballinger Village Hall, HP16 9LQ Wonder Workers and the Art of Illusion. The History of Magic through Art and Pictures. Bertie Pearce will examine the fascination with magic from the beginning of time. Where there was power there was magic. Then there is the age-old skill of sleight of hand, which proves that ‘the hand is quicker than the eye’. Email ballinger@theartssociety. org or www.theartssocietyballinger.org.uk

Weston Turville Historical Society

Fri 27, 8pm,

Weston Turville Village Hall, HP22 5RW

The Rise and Fall of the British Airship Service with Mike Scott-Rundle. £2 members, £3 visitors. www.WTHSoc.org.uk

Closing date for Grant Applications is 13 March 2026.

by www.wendovertrust.org clerk@wendovertrust.org 07423 266713

Wendover Repair Café

Sat 28, 9.30am-12pm, Wendover Library, HP22 6DU

A Repair Cafe is opening at Wendover Library to help you repair rather than replace items you need or love. Take in your broken or damaged electrical items (kettles, toasters) or clothing, fabrics, toys, gardening tools and they will do what they can to fix them. Please contact Jenny Summerfield or Frances Tipper on the emails below: frances@spokenwordltd. com or jenny.summerfield@hotmail.com

The Saxons Are Coming!

Sat 28 March-1 November 2026, Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury Discover Bucks Museum presents a major new exhibition, exploring Buckinghamshire’s Saxon past called ‘The SAXONS: Three lives. Three burial sites. Three extraordinary stories.’

For opening times, ticket prices and booking information visit discoverbucksmuseum.org See p.23 to find out how you can interact with the HS2 Saxon findings near Wendover reported by HS2 in 2022.

REGULAR EVENTS

Yoga and Mindful Art Classes

Guide Hut, Manor Crescent Wendover, HP22 6HH

Mon/Wed 10.30–11.15am Chair Yoga. www.happywellyoga.com/classes/chair-yoga

Mons 11.30-12.30 Mindful HeART Class

www.artyparty.funmindful-heart-Mondays Friday 09-10.00 SlowFlow Yoga  Friday 10.15-11.15 KundaDance  www.happywellyoga.com/classes

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

Thus 9.30 - 10.30 am. Email: sarahyoga@sky.com

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.

Yoga with Alice D

Mons, Halton Village Hall, HP22 5NG 7-8.15pm, Pregnancy Yoga 8.30-9.45pm, Women’s Yoga.

Weds, Wendover Memorial Hall, HP22 6HF 10.30-11.30am, Mum and Baby Yoga 12-1pm, Nurture Baby Massage. www.yogawithaliced.com

Regular Busylizzy classes:

Mons, St Mary’s Church, Wendover 13:00 Baby Massage

13:45 Postnatal Yoga (babies welcome) Tues,St Anne’s Hall, Wendover 10:00 Postnatal Pilates (babies welcome) Thus, Wendover Memorial Hall

10:00 Postnatal Circuits (babies welcome) 13:15: Baby Music

Contact Emma to book on: 07418609829 www.busylizzy.co.uk/wendover

Simply Walks and Cycle Rides

Wendover – Tues: Weekly walks from Wendover Clock Tower, leaving 10am. Socialise after at Wendover Christian Centre. Aston Clinton – Thus: from Aston Clinton Park leave 10.30am. Meet beside “Your Café in the Park.” Refreshments afterwards. Registration is 15 mins beforehand at both locations. Aylesbury Cycling UK – Sundays. Easy pace: every first and third week of the month, about 30 miles. Newcomers: each second and fourth week and about 20 miles. www. cyclinguk.org/group/aylesbury-cycling-uk

Liz Brown Yoga

Tues, 7pm, Wendover Memorial Hall

Fris, 10.30am, St Anne’s Hall 1:1 Yoga Therapy by appointment | Online classes

www.lizbrownyoga.co.uk | 07941 425187.

Diamond Bridge Club

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

Holy Week and Easter Activities and Church services in Wendover

Palm Sunday 29th March

4pm Churches Together Worship Service, Passion for Jesus, in St Anne's Church

Monday 30th, Tuesday 31st March & Wednesday 1st April

8pm Compline at St. Mary’s to mark the first few days of Holy Week. Sung on Wednesday evening.

Maundy Thursday 2nd April

7.30pm Agape Supper, Wendover Christian Centre

7pm Mass of the Lord’s Supper, followed by the Watch of the Passion until 9pm, St. Anne’s Church

8pm A service of Communion to remember the Last Supper at St. Mary's Church

Good Friday 3rd April

9am – 4pm Both Churches open for prayer

10am Stations of the cross, especially for families and children, St Anne’s Church

10-11.30am Refreshments and crafts in the Wendover Christian Centre

11.30am Act of worship in St Annes Church to start the “Walk of Witness”

12noon Churches Together Walk of Witness, starting at St Anne’s, Aylesbury Road and walking to St Mary’s 1pm A Service of readings and reflections for Good Friday at St. Mary's Church

3pm Celebration of the Lord’s Passion, St. Anne’s Church

Holy Saturday 4th April

9am - 4pm Both Churches open for prayer

8pm Easter Vigil, St. Anne’s Church

Easter Day 5th April

6am Dawn Service to welcome Easter Day followed by breakfast at St. Mary's 9am Sung Holy Communion for Easter Day at St. Mary's Church

9am Mass for Easter Day, St. Anne’s Church

10.45am Family celebration with Holy communion for Easter day at St. Mary's Church

10.45am Worship Service with Communion, Wendover Free Church

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

Cracklewick Morris

Tues 8.15-10.15pm

Halton Village Hall, HP22 5NG

An all-inclusive mixed Morris side who meet most Tuesdays for dance practice. Everyone welcome – musicians and dancers. No experience needed to dance. 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

Halton Art Group

Thus, 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 Thus, 2-3pm, Stoke Mandeville Community

Centre, Eskdale Road

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

APRIL EVENTS

Stoke Mandeville Easter Egg Hunt

Weds 1; 10am-noon, Queen Elizabeth Playing Field, Eskdale Road, HP22 5UJ. Bring your own bucket or basket and join the fun. Find all the hidden eggs and win an Easter Egg.

Also try the Egg & Spoon race, sack race, pipe shape challenge or have your photo taken with the Easter Bunny. Free event - all children must be accompianed by an adult.

The Stoke Mandeville Village Society Village Trail event

Fri 3, 10am-12pm, The Bull pub, Risborough Rd, Stoke Mandeville. Teams of up to six people. Registration £5 per team from 9. 45am. Prizes for the winning teams.

Gardeners’ Query Time

Fri 10, 7pm, St Anne’s Hall, Wendover Gardeners’ Query Time - with a distinguished panel of local gardeners. Tickets (limited) £20 pp includes Ploughman’s Platter and a glass of wine, via Wendover Choral website... wendoverchoral.co.uk or by email wendoverchoral@gmail.com or via

Ticketsource (Wendover Choral Society)

Wendover Talks

Thu 23, 2.30–4pm, Wendover Community Library

‘English as She is Spoke’ presented by Val Brown. Val covers, in a wonderfully funny and fascinating talk, how our language has developed over time, and its influence in the world.

Book at the library counter. Tel: 077538 41590.

Real Magic Music

Fri 24, 7pm. The Legion, Chiltern Road Music gig with US band Sister Ray Davies,

Planning ahead?

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

Ad and submission deadline (18:00) Issue

April 2026

May 2026

9 March 26

7 April 26 June 2026 11 May 26 Summer 2026 15 June 26 September 2026 10 August 26

live-in and visiting care.

At Ashridge Home Care, we believe the home you love is the best place to stay. When the time comes for additional support, our qualified carers are here to support you, whether you need a couple of hours a week, or 24/7 live-in care. As a family-owned, fully regulated provider, we manage every detail to give you total peace of mind. Contact our team: 01494 917 344 or visit: ashridgehomecare.co.uk

Celebrating 10 years with a new look and the same award-winning care.

Local News

Aldi coming to Weston Turville! Don’t panic. The beauty and peace of Weston Turville village life is not about to be assaulted. It has just been announced that price-conscious retailer Aldi intends to apply for planning permission for a new supermarket to be sited on the northern side of the A41, opposite the Holiday Inn and in front of the Aston Manor Care home.

Technically the site is still in Weston Turville, but it is clearly being built to serve residents who will be arriving to live in houses on the new ‘Hampden Fields’ neighbourhood and the planned ‘Woodlands’ area.

As well as the supermarket building, which Aldi say will provide 40 new jobs, the plot is also planned to include 99 parking spaces, including electric car charging points.

The date to respond to the pre-plannning application consultation is available until midnight on Sunday 1 March, so if you would like to comment, you can do so at mailto:midlands@consultation-online.co.uk or https://aldiconsultation.co.uk/westonturville/ have-your-say/

In the February issue of Wendover News, readers may have noticed that we included a free bonus extra copy of page 11 in between pages 18 and 20. This is what is known in the print industry as a ‘cock up’. We apologise as it shouldn’t have happened.

Richard Byford writes: “Hands up. It was me. Getting all the pages assembled is still a

bit of a fraught time and we had already gone over our deadline. The file upload process (to the printer) allows a great deal of flexibility to shuffle pages around and I unwittingly took advantage of that to screw things up. Sorry.”

As a result of page 19 not appearing as scheduled, three of our advertisers did not get the exposure they expected. We are grateful that they have accepted our apology. Harper’s ad appears on page 29 of this issue, Signature Decor Solutions is on page 15 and Concierge is on page 18.

Our printer, Magprint, had no part in creating the error.

If you would like to be part of our team, please get in touch. We are always on the lookout for volunteers – with, or without publishing industry experience!

Two new vicars take up local posts

Jane Larkham writes: In February the Bishop of Buckingham and the Associate Archdeacon of Buckingham licensed and installed two new clergy to serve in the Benefice of Ellesborough, the Kimbles and Stoke Mandeville. They took up their new posts in time for the Lenten programme and Holy Week leading up to Easter on Sunday 5 April. Both of them originally served as curates at St Mary’s church in Wendover. Readers may remember Revd Michael Hunt who was Local Face in the November 2012 Wendover News during his curacy at St Mary’s. A few years later, Revd Matthew Routledge became curate at St Mary’s in summer 2022, having also appeared in Wendover News as a Local Face in April 2021.

Revd Matthew (right) is now the rector and Revd Michael is the

associate priest, both part-time roles.

Revd Matthew is also part-time chaplain to St Peter’s College, Oxford.

Revd Michael’s (right) position is self-funding and he has a part-time role as College Accountant at Ripon College Cuddesdon. They will share their pastoral work with the lay volunteers in the different churches. They can be contacted via the A Church Near You website, https://www. achurchnearyou.com/church/5851/. They would also welcome a direct approach if you see them around the parish. Below are the services over Easter they are leading:

Sunday 29 March Palm Sunday 10am at St Mary’s, Stoke Mandeville

Monday, 30 March, 7pm Compline Service at Great Kimble

Tuesday 31 March, 7pm Compline Service at Ellesborough

Wednesday 1st April, 7pm Compline Service at Stoke Mandeville

Thursday, 2 April 7pm Holy Communion and Foot washing at Great Kimble

Good Friday 3 April, 10am Ellesborough

Reflective service of readings and music

Good Friday 3 April, 2pm Stoke Mandeville, Reflective service of readings and music

Easter Sunday 5 April

10am Kimble Easter Communion

10.30am All Age Family Communion Service, Stoke Mandeville

10.45am Easter Communion Service

Ellesborough

The old New Road in Weston Turville re-opens

New Road, which runs between the centre

For all your building requirements from patios and driveways to alterations and extensions

Building locally for 25 years

Please call 01296 582215

Errata

CGI image of proposed store. Source: Aldi

of Weston Turville, past the golf club, to the A41 near the Holiday Inn has now re-opened to traffic.

Comments on social media have criticised the fact that the reopened road seems to have acquired a unwanted and unnecessary ‘kink’, just after passing the golf club whilst driving in the direction of the A41.

This is the point where eventually the new Southern Link dual carriageway will cross New Road at right angles. The kink is likely to be there because that part of the road is conforming to the eventual permanent road layout of the new estate.

The team at Wendover News are keen to know if New Road will retain its established name after the new, new road, is opened.

Manor Waste gains an attractive business guide map

You may have noticed a new map standard on the Manor Waste, with an attractive illustration of all the local shops, pubs and eateries along the main streets of Wendover. It was organised by the Wendover Society, with support from Wendover Parish Council, which gave permission for it to be placed on the Manor Waste that it owns.

This was originally the idea of Anita Duckenfield, one of the Wendover Society committee members, who was inspired by a similar map in Amersham Old Town.

She says “The idea was to have a beautifully illustrated map which shows all the shops and amenities for visitors and which can be reproduced as a leaflet, which the WPC have said they will do, perhaps with a list of Wendover businesses on the back.”

Organising everything was quite lengthy, she says. Levi Gosling was the artist who drew the town plan. Anita says, “it was a tricky project for the illustrator to make the map reasonably accurate whilst looking like an

illustration, and also to fit as much as possible in. There were many consultations with people and bodies and many additions and amendments along the way!”

The map is designed to be updated with printed overlays as businesses change over time, and the whole print can be updated and replaced at relatively modest cost when the time comes.

Counting down to the Easter Pub Trail!

Leigh Porter writes: Make a note and spread the word, the Wendover Pub Trail is entering its third year, and more and more of us are going out to have a great time and show support for our pubs and local shops. They are under more pressure than ever and increasingly need our custom.

If you haven’t joined in before then don’t miss out on one of the biggest community events in Wendover, held over Easter and again later in the year on the August Bank Holiday weekend.

Every time, the Pub Trail route and the High Street is buzzing, the atmosphere is incredibly welcoming and friendly as all ages and members of the community mingle together, waving their Pub Trail Cards in recognition of their joint mission.

The aim is to pick up a card and visit each of our seven Wendover pubs. At each pub you have a drink (it doesn’t have to be alcoholic) and your card will be stamped.

You have four days over the Bank Holiday to do this (though there isn’t a restriction on the number of cards you can complete).

You then leave your completed card(s) at the last pub you visited, to enter a draw. Greg Smith MP will pick three completed cards out of the hat and the winners will receive a free drink in each of the seven pubs for the next three months!

THE

COLET SCHOOL

To plan your Wendover Pub Trail, you will be able to pick up your Trail Cards in any of the seven Wendover pubs, and they will also be available in local shops, eateries, barbers, the library and Wendover Station.

Easter is the most important celebration in the Christian calendar and is filled with traditions and special family and community events.

The Wendover Pub Trail is an enjoyable addition to the shared festival, allowing all members of the community, family and friends another chance to come together in mutual love and friendship.

There’s no requirement to drink alcohol as soft drinks are eligible for card stamps too. It’s also not a requirement to wear an Easter bonnet, or dress as an Easter Bunny, but why not?

In this mad, mad world it will add to the occasion and help Make Wendover Smile!

Great British Spring Clean Saturday 28 March

Jane Larkham writes: “Rotary in Wendover and District has noticed that the all-weather towpath completed in 2024 is suffering from litter. So as part of the Keep Britain Tidy, Great British Spring Clean Rotary members will be litter picking from Wharf Road to Perch Bridge.

The Wendover Society has offered to join in on Saturday 28 March, from 10am, and Wendover Parish Council is lending equipment. The Wendover Canal Trust is very happy that we take this on as their engineers are always on to their next project along the canal. Now all we need is fine weather!”

Hampden Pond Update

You may have noticed that the local firm, Weatherhead Drainage Ltd, are currently drilling a 40m bore hole at the edge of the Hampden Pond. This will provide water top-up during the summer months, so that water levels in the pond will stabilise.

This was a recommendation from ecologists as part of the overall pond restoration programme. Hopefully by the next issue we will have more news on progress but in the meantime the weather seems to have done most of the job already by filling the pond!

Tapas, typing and Teams now at Tres Corazones

In a town blessed with characterful independents, Tres Corazones has long held a special place in locals hearts.

Much-loved for its vibrant atmosphere

and authentic tapas — those generous small plates made for sharing — it has become synonymous with relaxed dining and warm hospitality. Now, it is extending that same welcoming spirit into the working day by offering Wendover a new space to work from.

“The Hub @ Tres” is a weekday initiative that thoughtfully transforms this restaurant space into a calm, productive retreat. Designed for freelancers, remote workers, students, and creatives, it provides an environment where both comfort and focus coexist.

For £12.95, guests can enjoy dedicated workspace, fast Wi-Fi, a delicious toastie for lunch, and coffee refills that keep both concentration and creativity topped up. The inclusion of a meeting room adds further flexibility, catering to everything from collaborative sessions to informal client catch-ups.

Available Tuesday to Friday, from 10am to 5pm, The Hub @ Tres reflects how local businesses continue to evolve alongside changing lifestyles. It’s not simply about working outside the home, but about doing so in a space already known for its energy, flavour, and sense of community.

Tres Corazones has always been about bringing people together — first over tapas, and now over ideas and great coffee. No booking necessary, just turn up.

Decorated Wendover veteran celebrates 103rd birthday

Wendover resident, David Morgan, celebrated his 103rd birthday on 13th February. He is pictured here with the French Legion d’Honneur which was awarded to him in December 2023.

It was a surprise to him at the time as he had been invited to a Christmas Lunch organised by the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans and wasn’t expecting more than a good meal.

After the meal a dashing officer addressed the assembled company and the Air Attaché from the French Embassy appeared announcing he was there to present the French Legion d’Honneur to David in recognition of his work in Word War II. David had worked on establishing a secure communication link from the Normandy beaches back to Britain on D-Day+5, which led to the liberation of France.

This news was covered on the front page of Wendover New s in January 2024. wendovernews.org/news/

local-wwii-veteran-honoured-by-france/

You can read more about David when he was also the Local Face in the February 2023 edition of Wendover News when he celebrated his 100th birthday. wendovernews.org/news/ local-face-david-morgan/

It’s time to look at your hedges If you work on your hedges at the wrong time of year, it can have undesirable results. First, you could disrupt nesting birds (which is an offence), you could stop the hedge’s normal growth pattern, and in extreme cases, cause them to die.

Phoebe Sharps at Wendover Parish Council points out that hedges hanging over footpaths can make it difficult for people in wheelchairs and pushing child buggies. The maintenance of hedges on private property is the responsibility of the homeowner.

Conifers start putting on fast growth in spring and the vigorous new growth shades out light from the interior growth of the hedge. Branches die off if all the live growth is cut off, which can lead to hedges having bare surfaces or looking ‘hollow’ on the sides that have been shaved. A hard trim all the way round can cause the hedge to die,

As mentioned, it’s an offence to disturb nesting birds, which can begin nesting as early March in the UK. Most reputable garden maintenance companies will advise you and check for nests before they start up their hedge trimmers.

You Can Still Have Your Say !

In the February edition of Wendover News we asked readers how they thought the magazine could be improved.

We have had a terrific response and will be giving feedback from the questionnaire in future editions once all the comments have been analysed.

The survey is still available on-line (see the QR code below). In addition a paper version of the questionnaire has been produced and can be found at the Community Centres, Village Halls (Aston Clinton, Dunsmore, Ellesborough, Halton, Stoke Mandeville, Weston Turville) Wendover Library and the Shop at the Lee.

If you would like a copy of the questionnaire sent to you please contact editor@ wendovernews.co.uk

Many thanks to all who took the time to respond to the survey. It all helps to make the magazine more useful and interesting for the local community.

A national study conducted by the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) shows that a large range of species are now breeding up to 31 days earlier than they were in the 1960s. By the end of March it might be too late. It’s time to book an expert!

Tribute: Chris Richards

By Jane Larkham

Friends and family were saddened by the sudden death of former Wendover District Councillor Chris Richards at the beginning of August 2025. His widow, Elizabeth, has since been asked to publish some of the history that was read at his thanksgiving service, in St Mary’s Wendover last September.

Many people were unaware that his upbringing was not typical for a boy born in Britain in the late 1940s. His father was a Polish soldier attached to the Polish Embassy in London. His mother was English/Welsh and Chris was born in Harrow. Home life was happy but his father decided to return to Poland when Chris was three and a half.

In Warsaw they lived in a flat in a city which had been devastated by the Nazis and was now run by the Soviets. The family was heavily scrutinised by any authority they came into contact with – this included the schools Chris attended. This scrutiny and religious differences meant that eventually the family broke up. Chris was considered Polish because of his father, so he and his mother had to stay in Poland until was 18, when he could finally claim his British nationality.

His mother taught English as a Foreign Language and eventually Warsaw University gave them a large and beautiful flat. He was a weekly boarder at a seminary run by Protestant Lutherans. Poland offered wonderful winter skiing in Zakopane, with visits to other countries in the Soviet Bloc. On his return to Britain he adopted his mother’s maiden name.

Chris was always astonished that he could speak freely in Britain and not continuously look over his shoulder for who might be listening. He thought we took this freedom too lightly. Equally, he was horrified by our lack of central heating, double glazing and appropriate clothing. He was used to skiing to school in temperatures of minus 20 degrees C.

Chris started a photography course in Ealing in 1965. In 1966 he met Elizabeth who was training to be a librarian and they married in 1971. Chris went on to a film course in central London and spent his working life at the BBC. At the BBC, sessions included Crimewatch and That’s Life. Elizabeth worked for Bucks County Council and they were able to buy an affordable

home in Wendover where they lived for 42 years. Charlotte and Naomi were born in Wendover and two grandchildren and a son-in-law visit frequently.

When Songs of Praise was recorded in Aylesbury Methodist Church, Elizabeth remembers local folk anxious that Chris hadn’t edited them out of the broadcast version. Chris and Elizabeth wrote several editions of Playschool but his passion was always Current Affairs – Panorama, the Money Programme, Newsnight. The lifestyle was very hectic including late night taxis home with early morning starts regardless. Chris was glad to take early retirement at 52.

Chris then worked for the Shaftesbury Society and later as a disability instructor with Bucks County Council. Finally he could participate in politics as district councillor for Wendover for 14 years, as well as Chilterns Conservation Board and the Lionel Abel-Smith Trust. Appreciated, too, were the updates on council activities that he regularly wrote and delivered round Wendover and Halton.

Elizabeth has received many letters and cards describing his commitment to Wendover and the individual attention he gave to residents with concerns. She says they are a great comfort, showing that he represented his constituents so well.

In retirement Chris joined the U3A discussion group. He wrote some memoirs of his early life and admitted that he became frustrated with people’s inability to discuss matters with both passion and clarity. He put this down to the “English environment which in the main avoided the turbulence that many others nations went through.” He was very happy to have been able to live in that environment raising his much-loved family who miss him dearly.

Tribute: Helen Biggs

By Jane Larkham

It is with great sadness that we report the death of Helen Biggs who died on Monday 2 February.

Helen was a proud Buckinghamshire girl who was educated at Aylesbury Grammar School when it was still mixed and went on to become a Norland Nanny. She enjoyed being a live-in nanny until her ailing mother needed her support at home in Wendover.

Fortunately she was able to switch to looking after countless babies in the Royal Bucks Hospital maternity unit for 24 years while working at home as a carer. Her final job was as nanny to a child in Wendover, who now has two children of her own and is very grateful for the upbringing she received. Helen was so well-known in Wendover that she was the subject of a Local Face in Wendover News in April 2022.

Helen had strong associations with St Agnes, the “tin tabernacle” in Dobbins Lane until the 1990s, which was connected to the main local Anglican church, St Mary’s. Evensong at St Michael’s, Halton became a favourite of hers.

Helen loved reunions with her Norland Nanny friends and they all kept watch on the generations as they grew. In retirement, Helen led the Tuesday morning walking group in Wendover and even managed to return after a serious back injury. Now her happy smile has gone.

Helen’s funeral took place in St Mary’s, Wendover, on Tuesday 24 February.

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Culture, Visual and Performing Arts

Written and compiled by Jo Durden-Moore

Spring into culture: arts, music and creativity across Wendover

Wendover and its neighbouring villages continue to offer a rich and varied cultural landscape, with music, visual arts, theatre and community creativity flourishing across the area. This season’s calendar once again highlights not only the depth of local talent but also the remarkable community spirit that sustains it.

As spring begins to unfold, there is no shortage of opportunities to feel inspired, entertained and connected, whether through exhibitions, performances or shared creative experiences that bring people together.

One of the first highlights of the season is the Chilterns Neuro Centre Pop-Up Art Weekend, an event that beautifully combines creativity with community support. Hosted by the Chilterns Neuro Centre, the exhibition takes place on Saturday 7 March from 10am to 5pm and Sunday 8 March from 10:30am to 4pm.

This free to attend weekend showcases a vibrant collection of work from talented local artists, spanning paintings, prints, ceramics and jewellery. Visitors can browse and purchase original pieces in a relaxed and welcoming environment, where art becomes both accessible and purposeful. Beyond the visual appeal lies a deeper significance, with at least 33% of every sale directly supporting the Centre’s essential physical, practical and emotional services for people affected by MS, Parkinson’s and strokes.

A café serving homemade cakes, soups and refreshments will further enhance the friendly, sociable atmosphere. Further details can be found at www.chilternsneurocentre. org

Live performance continues to shine this spring with Real Magic Live Music at Real Magic Books. A special April performance will feature the band Sister Ray Davies, visiting from the USA.

The Muscle Shoals-based duo of Adam Morrow and Jamie Sego are known for their shimmering, textured, folk tinged sound, evoking the dreamlike qualities of Slowdive, Ride and Yo La Tengo. Their debut album Holy Island has drawn widespread praise, and audiences can expect an immersive and atmospheric evening. The performance takes place at The Legion Club.

Looking ahead, Saturday 9 May welcomes Pictish Trail, followed by Seamus Fogarty on Friday 15 May. Tickets and event information

are available via www.realmagicbooks.com

Literature and landscape intertwine during the Real Magic Walk & Talk on Sunday 1 March, celebrating the new edition of The Icknield Way by Edward Thomas.

Writer Jack Cornish, author of The Lost Paths, will join participants along the route, sharing readings that breathe new life into Thomas’s reflections on nature, place and everyday beauty. The walk is followed by an in conversation discussion at the bookshop with local writer Will Burns. Further details can be found at www.realmagicbooks.com

The arrival of spring also signals preparations for the Wendover Arts Festival, now firmly established in its new home following fifteen successful years in Mentmore.

Held at St Mary’s Church and organised by the Wendover Arts Festival team under the leadership of Deborah Hale, the festival has become a focal point for artistic celebration within the village. The inaugural Wendover festival welcomed 85 artists, transforming the church into a vibrant exhibition space. It was a huge success with thousands of visitors over the weekend and raising thousands for the church building restoration project.

Now entering its second year, the festival will run from Friday evening 22 May 2026 at 6pm through to Bank Holiday Monday 25

May. Artists slots are already fully booked, sponsorships in development, with delicious food and drink all being planned. Updates and artist information can be found at www. wendover-arts-festival.co.uk

Creativity continues throughout the year at the Colour Wheel Inspired Art Classes held at Ellesborough Parish Hall. These relaxed and supportive sessions welcome participants of all abilities, offering opportunities to explore techniques, build confidence and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of creative expression.

Free taster sessions are available, with twelve week courses running on Tuesday and Friday mornings and afternoons. More information is available at www. colourwheelartclass.co.uk

The Sing Out Project is launching a series of new and exciting initiatives over the next 18 months to demonstrate the positive impact of singing on mental health, while raising awareness and much-needed funds for mental health charities.

Following the huge success of the inaugural Sing Out for Mental Health concert at the Waterside Theatre in April 2025 these projects aim to engage a wide range of participants through a variety of accessible and inspiring formats, thus creating more opportunities for more people to experience the mental health

Wendover Arts Festival at St Marys Church

benefits of singing together. Upcoming activities this year will include workshops, musical theatre performances, choir festivals, and partnerships with mental health charity programmes.

A special gala concert is planned in collaboration with Berkhamsted Theatre Company who will be celebrating its Centenary this year. Discussions are also underway for further collaborations next year all with the aim of taking the Projects as far and wide as possible. See Instagram @singoutproject for more information.

Meanwhile, Lindengate remains a constant source of calm, creativity and connection

within the local community. Its Open Gardens are free to enter year round. Winter opening hours from 1 November 2025 run Wednesday to Friday from 11am to 3pm and Saturday from 1pm to 3pm, extending to 4pm after Easter. Lindengate’s programme also includes the Wellbeing and Nature Course for Adults, running for nine weeks on Wednesdays from 9:30am to 12:30pm, with 2026 courses scheduled from 8 April to 3 June, 5 August to 7 October, and 21 October to 16 December. Younger visitors can enjoy Kids’ Nature Holiday Camps during Easter and Summer 2026 from 9am to 3:30pm, while the much loved Pop-Up Cafés return monthly from

April to September between 12:30pm and 3:30pm. Full details are available at www. lindengate.org.uk

Finally, the return of Mikron Theatre to Lindengate promises a magical evening of outdoor entertainment.

On Friday 5 June 2026, audiences can enjoy Top of the Wold, a heartwarming new musical adventure. Gates open at 5pm for refreshments and garden strolls, with the performance beginning at 7pm. Visitors are invited to bring chairs and blankets for what is sure to be a memorable summer evening. Ticket information is available via www. lindengate.org.uk/events

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Hidden gems and cosy corners: A café lover ventures beyond Wendover!

By Jo Durden-Moore

There’s something uniquely comforting about discovering a great local café — the kind of place where the coffee is reliably good, the welcome is warm, and muddy boots or wagging tails are never a problem.

Around Wendover, café culture thrives quietly, offering everything from stylish brunch spots to countryside hideaways. As an avid dog walker and brunch lover, I’ve happily worked my way around them all.

Whether you’re seeking artisan coffee, a hearty lunch after a walk, or somewhere your dog will be greeted as enthusiastically as you are, there’s no shortage of inviting options.

The joy lies not just in the food and drink, but in the sense of community these independent cafés continue to nurture. So lace up your walking shoes and go and check them out — enjoy!

The Village Retreat Café

Tucked beside Jubilee Park in Weston Turville, this charming village café has earned its reputation as a true local favourite, despite only celebrating its first anniversary of opening earlier in February.

The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, making it ideal for parents, walkers, and anyone craving a slower pace. The menu focuses on well-executed café classics — hot drinks, homemade cakes, light breakfasts, and easy lunches. Dogs (on leads) are warmly welcomed inside and out, which only adds to its community feel. On sunny days, the outdoor seating becomes one of the village’s loveliest casual meeting spots.

Perfect for: casual brunches, light lunches, and coffee after a park stroll.

Coffee at 108

Modern, bright, and effortlessly stylish, Coffee at 108 is a popular choice for those

seeking a polished brunch experience. Set within a beautifully converted Victorian house on Aston Clinton’s High Street, it offers carefully crafted coffee, beautifully presented dishes, and a menu filled with contemporary favourites — think sourdough toasties, fresh sandwiches, and indulgent cakes.

The vibe is relaxed yet refined, making it equally suited to catchups or solo coffee breaks. Dogs are welcome, and it’s common to see four-legged visitors lounging contentedly beside tables.

Perfect for: brunch dates, quality coffee, and light lunches.

Your Café in the Park (Red Kite Café) Few cafés can compete with this setting. Positioned within the park in Aston Clinton, this café is a go-to stop for walkers, families, and dog owners alike. The menu is simple and approachable — sandwiches, cakes, snacks, and hot drinks — exactly what you want after fresh air and exercise.

While the food is classic café fare

rather than gourmet, the location more than compensates. It’s also wonderfully dog-friendly, and outdoor seating makes it particularly appealing in warmer months. Perfect for: post-walk refuels, relaxed lunches, and coffee in the sunshine.

Buckmoorend Farm Café

For a countryside café experience at its most peaceful, Buckmoorend Farm Café in Butler’s Cross is hard to beat. Hugely popular with cyclists and walkers, this rural stop-off offers scenic views, homemade cakes, and a welcome escape from busier town centres.

The food centres on breakfast baps, light lunches, and satisfying snacks, often using locally sourced ingredients. Picnic benches and outdoor seating make it especially convenient for visitors with dogs.

Perfect for: weekend brunches, coffee rides, and scenic lunch stops.

Halton Tennis Club Café

One of the area’s quieter surprises, this café truly feels like a hidden gem. The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, offering good coffee and simple light bites.

Rarely overcrowded yet always popular, it’s a pleasant alternative when other cafés are

bustling. Overlooking the tennis courts, the peaceful setting is part of its charm.

With renovations nearing completion, it promises to be even more appealing in the spring and summer months. Very dog-friendly, it’s ideal for a relaxed break with lovely views.

Perfect for: quiet coffee stops, light lunches, and scenic surroundings.

The Grazing Goat Café – Stoke Mandeville

A café with real personality, the Grazing Goat is known for good reviews and a relaxed, welcoming vibe. Praised for its quality coffee and satisfying brunch-style dishes, it strikes a delightful balance between rustic charm and modern café expectations.

Visitors often highlight the friendly service, and dogs are typically accommodated, particularly in outdoor areas. There’s something rather special about enjoying your coffee while goats quietly provide the soundtrack.

Perfect for: brunch outings, relaxed lunches, and excellent coffee.

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Chiltern View – Harpers Restaurant

For those who enjoy their café visits with a side of browsing, this combination is hard to beat. Harpers Restaurant offers a full breakfast and lunch menu, ranging from traditional favourites to lighter café options.

The setting is spacious and calm, making it a reliable choice for longer, unhurried meals. Dogs are welcome in designated outdoor seating areas, allowing owners to enjoy a proper brunch or lunch without compromise. Perfect for: leisurely brunches, extended lunches, and coffee with a wander.

Wendover Woods Café

Few stops are as satisfying after a long woodland walk. Nestled within Wendover Woods, this café benefits from unbeatable scenery and plentiful outdoor seating. The menu focuses on hearty, walk-friendly fare — breakfast baps, sandwiches, snacks, and hot drinks. While opinions on the food may vary, most visitors agree the location alone makes it a worthwhile stop. Dogs welcome.

Perfect for: post-walk fuel, family outings, and coffee under the trees.

The Lee Café

Quintessential village café charm defines The Lee Café. Expect friendly faces, homemade

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cakes, brunch options, and traditional light lunches. It’s the kind of place that feels reassuringly familiar – cosy rather than trendy. A lovely pause point for a country drive or walk, with dogs usually welcomed, especially in outdoor seating areas. Perfect for: traditional brunches, relaxed lunches, and tea and cake.

Gusto

A trendy little café near Castle Park, just beyond Wendover’s town centre, Gusto is known for its high-quality espresso, flat whites, and brunch-style dishes. Much loved for brunch dates or coffee meetups, it strikes a perfect balance between relaxed and sociable — ideal if you’re after excellent coffee with a little more substance.

With art and craft clubs and other activities running throughout the week, don’t be surprised if you wander in to find Frenchspeaking groups practising their skills or local artists honing their talents. It’s a café with a genuine community buzz.

Perfect for: fabulous coffee, a convenient park-side location, and light lunches.

Local Plan sets new housing guidelines

By Richard Byford

Why is there so much new housing being built in in Buckinghamshire? Why is it allowed, when there is a lack of schools, health centres, buses, and roads are constantly clogged? Buckinghamshire Council usually gets the blame, but its options are constrained by many layers of bureaucracy.

If a developer applies to build new housing in Wendover or the surrounding area, who decides if they can go ahead? Is it the parish council, county council or some other body? Who is really in charge? Do you get a say?

Wendover and our other local parish councils will certainly have a say, but it can only pass on comments to Buckinghamshire Council. Any opinions they give will be judged against strict criteria and guidelines. So it looks like the county council makes all the decisions…

But even there, not quite. These are constrained by the Local Plan, a hefty set of targets and considerations covering at least the next two decades, taking literally years to compile. Central government orders councils to prepare them, and gets upset at delays.

Bucks Council has been preparing a new county-wide Local Plan ever since it became a unitary authority in 2020. Previously Local Plans had only been prepared by the three incumbant district councils.

Although Bucks Council finally published details of its Local Plan on 17 February, the delays prompted the Government’s Housing Minister, Matthew Pennycook, to send a stiff letter to the council the previous week saying, in effect, “get a move on or else.”

The decision machine

‘The Council’ comes in two parts. Most of its people are employees. Some have specific responsibilities and are called ‘officers.’ They must follow very clear rules about how they operate and make decisions. Some of these are set out in Acts of Parliament.

The others are Councillors, elected by the residents of Buckinghamshire. They don’t get a salary and many have separate jobs or responsibilities of their own. Most of their time is spent out in the community, listening to residents. They can’t dictate the council’s decisions, but they can work with the officers to oversee decisions and represent voters.

For big decisions about housing, infrastructure and land-use, officers and councillors will refer to the Local Plan. The process of preparing this will have involved surveys, measuring traffic flows, predicting population growths and the need for schools and health provision – and lots more detail. This gives the Council the information it needs to ‘drive’ development in the right place and time.

Sometimes, projects are initiated by external bodies, such as businesses looking to move into the area, community groups and national bodies – and companies wanting to build houses. The first thing a Council official would do is to look in the Local Plan, where some areas are set aside for residential, some for industry/employment and some special purposes like community spaces, sports or to ensure that the area has enough open space for people and wildlife. Some ‘speculative’ projects will fit like missing jigsaw puzzle pieces. If they don’t, the council can use its Local Plan to justify rejecting them.

Mitigation funds from developers

Developers whose applications are passed are obliged to pay into one of two funds to mitigate financial stress on the locality caused

by their housing projects. One is the Section 106 agreement, where the developer and the county council negotiate the terms of the planning permission. The intention is that developers contribute to the local community to mitigate the impact of their developments. However, there is no mechanism to force Bucks Council to spend these S106 funds in the area that will be impacted, as mentioned in our cover story about Rectory Homes’ proposed development in Wendover.

The other source is the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), a charge made by local authorities on new developments in their area. The amount charged will depend on the type of development and the area. Bucks Council’s Infrastructure Funding statement for 2024-25 (see www.buckinghamshire. moderngov.co.uk) describes development funding and how it was spent.

The moving goalposts

During the past five years, the newly unitary Bucks Council has been bringing together the existing material from the three formerly separate District Councils, including drawing up a new Local Plan to cover the whole area. The Council’s website indicates that it was originally pulling this material together and projecting a Local Plan to cover the next 20 years. It seemed well thought-out and balanced. But then central government imposed a new legal duty for Bucks to accommodate a 43% increase in new homes, above the previous needs-based calculations. This explains the delays.

Steven Broadbent, Leader of Buckinghamshire Council, said: “The impact of such development on Buckinghamshire is immense, but doing nothing is not an option, as having an up-to-date plan is essential to prevent speculative development and ensure infrastructure is properly planned. 

“It is a major concern is that these imposed housing numbers do not come with any Government funding for the infrastructure that would be needed to support such growth. While developers will contribute to some of the required investment, this covers only a fraction of the multi-billion pound costs of new roads, transport links, schools, healthcare provision, sewerage systems and energy infrastructure. Central Government will need to step up and plug the gaps if their development targets are to be met.”

Effects on Wendover

Much of Wendover is protected because it has National Landscape status or other protections. The exception is the area of RAF Halton, which is already developed. When and if the base closes, a plan for redevelopment was published in 2023. A large area on the NE side of the canal, which is currently farmland and sports fields, is also up for assessment, though this may not result in building.

In a joint statement, Wendover Society and Wendover Parish said “The requirement for the whole of Buckinghamshire is to provide 95,000 new homes over the next 20 years, together with one new town – an alarming prospect bearing in mind the huge amount of development that we have seen in recent years. We will be working closely together to respond to both consultations. Although it is likely that Wendover will need to accept some change, our aim is to protect Wendover and

neighbouring communities from inappropriate development which could see them being absorbed into a ‘Greater Aylesbury.’

“Once the proposals for Wendover in the draft Plan have been reviewed, the Society and Parish Council will be holding a public meeting to give residents the opportunity to express their views and guide the response that both organisations will make to the consultation.”

This meeting will take place on 19 March and the Wendover Memorial Hall.

Neighbouring villages of Stoke Mandeville, Weston Turville and Aston Clinton are much more likely to find areas around them marked for development. See the webpage in the paragraph below and click through to the interactive map. Wendover News will be publishing updates from the various parish councils as soon as they are available.

How can we participate?

There are two consultations in which residents (and local businesses) can participate. The first covers the assessment of land which may be suitable for development. You can provide input at www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/sitessurvey, up to 11.59pm on 16 March 2026.

When Bucks Council publishes its draft Local Plan, it will go to further public consultation before it is finalised for Government inspection in December.

Look in Wendover News and www. wendovernews.co.uk for updates.

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Wendover u3a: welcome to our next 25 years

By Ian Crookall

Most of us look forward to retirement after a lifetime of work; maybe we gradually phase down our workload by taking less demanding jobs, or reducing our hours. However, ending our full-time or part-time work is a time when we lose our connections with colleagues and miss the social interaction. At the same time, we can easily lose the enormous skill and knowledge which have been acquired over our lifetimes, and which could still be passed on to others.

For the past 25 years, Wendover u3a has been a haven of opportunities and friendships for many residents in Wendover and neighbouring towns and villages. Last year marked a quarter century of involving and inspiring retired and semi-retired members in our meetings, interest groups, trips and social activities.

We continue to adapt and evolve, building on previous experience to ensure we remain relevant and as accessible as possible for current and future members.

This article celebrates our journey so far, gives a snapshot of a typical u3a month and looks ahead to the next chapter of serving our community (including you?) in the best ways possible.

A tradition of lifelong learning

U3a is a national movement. Its fundamental message is to Learn, Laugh and Live

As changes take place in our lives, u3a is there for us all to learn from others whose experience of life is different to our own. At the same time, learning in the company of others with a like-minded approach is a real pleasure.

Since its founding 25 years ago, Wendover u3a has stood by the belief that learning is a lifelong adventure. Hundreds of local residents have benefitted from their membership. An ever-expanding array of groups, 60 in total, exist to learn new skills and seek out new opportunities from fellow members from languages and creative writing to digital skills and art. Our welcoming environment encourages members to explore new passions, develop talents, and remain intellectually curious, regardless of background or experience.

In the past year our travel group visited Scotland, our walking group visited the Isle of Wight, our active theatre group saw many shows in Aylesbury, Tring and Chesham and our Latin group took a trip to Italy to visit Pompeii and Herculaneum.

Informative talks

In addition, each month, members can attend a talk about a subject which might be quite innovative. Our speakers explore people and subjects which members might not otherwise encounter.

These talks can range from environmental issues to journeys to unusual parts of the world; they can relate to the stories of individuals who made their mark in history, to events which have shaped the world.

In January the talk was about a notorious double-agent during the Second World War and in February we heard about the harsh treatment of Indian elephants. In the coming month of March, John Benjamin, a member of the Antiques Roadshow team, will be talking to members about the life and work of Carl Faberge, the Russian goldsmith and jeweller famous for the intricate Easter eggs.

In a nutshell, there is so much to do and learn in retirement and Wendover u3a plays its part in helping local residents achieve that.

Strengthening community and connection

Throughout its history Wendover u3a has fostered strong bonds among its members. Group projects, lively discussions, and social gatherings have created a vibrant network of support and camaraderie for our members.

The opportunities which Wendover u3a provides means that friendships are formed which are strengthened by the events which are organised.

For example members support each other by car shares on regular visits to theatres and museums. The groups of musicians come together to make music with friends and at the same time entertain us with concerts.

Many of the activities help members to stay fit, keep our minds active and at the same time enjoying the company of others.

Friendships formed at Wendover u3a have often lasted for years.

Building a bright future

Equally we look to the future and Wendover u3a remains committed to nurturing its existing connections and expanding its reach so that even more local people can experience the joy of learning. It is not just a case of what Wendover u3a can do for you.

Of course, we provide the environment and encouragement; however, we hope that new members can share their expertise and experience of their lives in the years ahead. Recently one of our new members helped to form a Beginners Bridge group; another initiated a cookery course. Just some practical examples of how we can learn from you.

Recognising that many of us as we grow older face various barriers, Wendover u3a uses accessible venues. We welcome members from Wendover and the local area, but we also have members from other parts of Buckinghamshire.

We make a real effort to welcome and keep in contact with all our members. We make sure that members know what is happening by regular newsletters and an up-to-date website.

Wendover u3a takes great pride from the past 25 years of enriching the lives of its members and aims to create an ever-more welcoming and supportive environment for lifelong learning. By championing learning and community, Wendover u3a is laying a strong foundation for the next generation of members to thrive, connect, and continue a journey of self-discovery.

If you are interested in finding out more about us, visit the website at https:// wendover.u3asite.uk. From there you can contact the membership secretary if you would like more details and/or if you would like to come along to see what we do.

One of the many groups and activities that the members of Wendover u3a can participate in.

Growing Together: How Lindengate is changing lives in our community

By Jo Durden-Moore

There are moments in the life of a community when a single report tells a story far greater than numbers alone. Lindengate’s newly published 2025 Impact Report is one such moment. It is not merely a summary of activity, but a reflection of how compassion, connection, and time spent in nature continue to change lives across our county. At the heart of Lindengate lies a belief both simple and profound: that spending time in green spaces, alongside others, can significantly improve wellbeing. Within its gardens, growth is measured not only in plants and seasons, but in confidence regained, isolation reduced, and hope restored. Day after day, individuals arrive carrying stress, anxiety, grief, or uncertainty and leave a little lighter.

The context in which Lindengate works has made its role more vital than ever. Across Buckinghamshire, demand for mental health and wellbeing support continues to rise. Local data paints a sobering picture: common mental health disorders affect approximately one in eight men and one in five women; the number of under 18s in contact with mental health services has doubled within five years; and more than 7,200 people locally are living with dementia. Behind every statistic is a person, a family, and a story.

During 2025, Lindengate supported 3,840 individuals through wellbeing programmes, volunteering, events, and open garden sessions, a remarkable 31% increase on the previous year. This growth reflects both the charity’s expanding reach and rising

community need. Children, adults, and families passed through its gates seeking calm, purpose, and belonging.

Central to Lindengate’s offer are its structured wellbeing programmes, rooted in Social and Therapeutic Horticulture. Designed for adults experiencing mental ill health, social isolation, or reduced confidence, these small group, nature based sessions include gardening, conservation, crafts, and creative activities. Participants build routine, practical skills, confidence, and social connection in an environment that feels nurturing rather than clinical.

Equally valued is the charity’s Memory Pathways Programme, supporting people living with memory loss or mild to moderate dementia, alongside their carers. These sessions reduce isolation while encouraging gentle stimulation and social interaction. Families often describe loved ones leaving Lindengate “with a smile from ear to ear”, a phrase that captures something statistics cannot: moments of joy, dignity, and belonging.

Volunteering remains another cornerstone of Lindengate’s impact. More than 200 volunteers contributed an extraordinary 15,570 hours during 2025. Opportunities across gardening, conservation, events, crafts, and administration offer meaningful ways for people to engage and rebuild confidence. Many individuals move into volunteering after completing wellbeing programmes, supported through inclusive measures such as one to one guidance and garden buddies.

Importantly, Lindengate has not relied on anecdote alone to demonstrate its value. The 2025 report highlights measurable outcomes: 95% of visitors reported improved mental health, while 86% of participants in structured programmes met or exceeded their personal wellbeing goals. In a world where the benefits of preventative wellbeing initiatives are often described warmly but vaguely, such clarity is both reassuring and compelling.

Yet Lindengate’s story is not solely about reflection. It is also about momentum. Looking ahead to 2026, the charity’s ambitions are bold, thoughtful, and deeply responsive to emerging needs. Among the most exciting developments is the launch

of Grow, Cook and Learn, a new outdoor programme for young people aged 16 to 25. Designed to support young people including those with EHCPs, SEND, and individuals not currently in education, employment, or training, the initiative recognises the transformative power of early intervention, practical skills, and connection to nature.

February 2026 will also see the beginning of Seeds of Change, a three year, youth led programme supporting young people aged 6 to 25 through therapeutic food growing, cooking, education, and community engagement.

Funded by the Rothschild Foundation and the Rothschild Strategic Fund, the programme will address food insecurity, environmental challenges, and health inequality. In doing so, it links personal wellbeing with wider social and environmental responsibility, nurturing both people and place.

Investment in Lindengate’s physical environment continues in parallel. A new Water Garden, funded by the JJM Fund, reedbed conservation supported by the Rothschild Green Fund, and improved access to the Ernest Hecht Charitable Foundation Lodge will ensure the site is equipped to sustain and expand its impact for years to come.

The priorities for 2026 reflect both aspiration and necessity: supporting 5,000 beneficiaries, expanding alternative provision and outdoor learning for young people aged 6 to 25, increasing the supply of fresh organic produce to communities facing food insecurity, strengthening partnerships across health, education, and environmental sectors, and investing in staff, volunteers, and infrastructure.

None of this progress happens in isolation. Lindengate’s achievements are inseparable from the dedication of its volunteers, supporters, partners, and participants. Many volunteers bring invaluable lived experience, offering empathy that cannot be taught. Their compassion, commitment, and generosity form the foundation upon which the charity’s work stands. In uncertain times, Lindengate offers something both rare and deeply needed: evidence that small acts, tending a garden, sharing time, fostering connection, can create lasting change.

The ‘Green Volunteens’ making fat balls for birds during an education session

Local Saxon finds now on show

By Jane Larkham

A new exhibition about Saxon finds in Buckinghamshire opens on Saturday 28 March at the Discover Bucks museum in Aylesbury.

Right from the start of the HS2 archaeological work in Wendover, amazing discoveries were being made. One local field was revisited for an in depth study which revealed 141 Saxon burials, one of the largest Saxon cemeteries ever found in Britain. Artefacts

from this site have completely revolutionised our understanding of the period and the range of individuals, including age, gender and social status, giving us a much better idea of all strata of society at that time. This find is archaeologically important to the story of Wendover and the immediate post-Roman story of England.

HS2 posted a short video in June 2022 https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=w95p5aTa58c&t=10s giving a taster of these incredible finds and now the public will have a chance to look at some of them. The exhibition is at the Discover Bucks Museum, Church Street, Aylesbury HP20 2QP, running from 28 March to 1 November. Tickets are available from https:// discoverbucksmuseum.digitickets.co.uk/ tickets.

The exhibition uses three on-screen Saxons to guide you through the sights, sounds and stories of Saxon Buckinghamshire. The opening day on Saturday 28 March will feature re-enactors, storytelling and hands-on crafts. Visitors can hear stories for all ages, inspired by real discoveries.

No human remains will be shown but the people discovered through archaeology have been re-imagined in a life-like manner.

Saxons feature in the schools Key Stage 2 History specification, so young children will find these objects relevant to their studies while older children can learn more from these finds.

More senior adults were probably taught that these were the Dark Ages, but archaeology has been revealing more and more of this period and it has now been re-named

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Early Medieval. This exhibition will tell us more about the civilisation which was swept aside by the Norman Conquest in 1066 but which laid foundations for some democratic practices we still cherish today. This is all happening in the year when we are promised the Bayeux Tapestry will return to England, where it was originally made by contemporarily famous Saxon embroiderers.

Wendover HS2 Mitigation Group is actively exploring the legacy of HS2 for Wendover and where the rest of the plentiful archaeological finds will finally be displayed is not yet known. In the meantime the Saxon exhibition will be a fantastic opportunity to catch up with some of the people who lived in Wendover 1,500 years ago, about whom we previously

Marlow Warrior sentry

Taplow Wealthy Woman

Wendover Market Woman

My schooldays in World War II

Ralph Ludlow spoke to Richard Byford

What was it like for a five year old boy who had to walk for more than a mile over farmland to get to school during WWII? I spent some time with 89-year-old Ralph Ludlow talking about his early years at Wellwick Farm – which stands a mile from the centre of Wendover, alone in a block of farmland bordered by the Ellesborough and Nash Lee roads.

Born in 1936, Ralph was one of three brothers. He was the youngest, his brother Roger was two years older, and the oldest was Martin – who will be remembered by many people in Wendover as a scout leader from 1976 to the late 1990s.

“I was only three when the war started, so the war had been going on for a couple of years before I started school”, explained Ralph. “I clearly remember my mother walking me and my two brothers to school on my first day – but after that day it was just us lads on our own. Our preferred route was to walk from our farm cottage along the footpath, to the bridge over the railway at the station. From there we went through to Dobbins Lane and down the High Street to the school, which was between the Clock Tower and Herons Path.

In the summer, to save a bit of time, we cut across the field instead of using the footpath. Sometimes we would wave to our dad if he was out with the horses ploughing or working in the fields. In wet weather, we had to take the longer route along the farm road to Ellesborough Road and then up to the road bridge over the railway – that route is over a mile and a half. I remember one particularly cold day, there was a snowstorm and when I got to highest part of the route, by the other farm, I decided that it was too cold and turned round and went home. We always wore shorts to school, so you can understand why. My brothers just carried on!”

“Our days at school were good. I have good

memories of the headmaster, Tom Sears, who also taught the seniors. He had a style of teaching that made you feel like you were learning with him, rather than from him. Other teachers were remembered less fondly: Mrs Makin was a bit of a dragon!”

The school building is still there but now divided into several separate residences. The building nearest the road and Clock Tower was for seniors, up to the age of about 14 or 15. Behind the seniors building was the toilet block and beyond that the school for juniors. He was there in wartime, when every inch of available land was used to grow vegetables. The school was no exception, and gardening was taught as an essential skill. Ralph remembers getting the gardening prize for his splendid crop of beetroot. “It’s not surprising really. I’m from a farming family and growing food is in my blood.

The school day was, he said, probably the same as it had been in the years before the war. There was a stove at the back classroom and he remembers often having to put the kettle on for the staff tea break. Catering for the children was provided at the Baptist Chapel, across the other side of the Witchell. First the juniors were led across for dinner, followed later by the seniors. Some of the seniors were also recruited to serve the food.

I asked Ralph what he remembered of the war: “A big gun on top of Coombe Hill – I think it was called a ‘Bofors’ – kept us awake for many hours during the night, as the gunners tried to shoot down enemy bombers when they flew over. The huge gun was on wheels and had four long legs that splayed

out in four directions to keep it steady. “

“Nearby, giant lights often shone into the sky searching for enemy planes that could often be heard, but rarely seen. Even on the farm, miles from other buildings, blackout conditions applied. I remember once when the air-raid sirens were going off in Wendover, taking a lit candle with me when my father had gone outside to see what was going on. Dad grabbed the candle, threw it on the floor and stamped on it. I didn’t do that again!”

He remembers one occasion when bombers had flown along the line of the Chiltern escarpment dropping bombs within sight of the farm. “When we got up in the morning and looked out of the window, we could see piles of churned up chalk where the bombs had landed on the side of the hills, but strangely, none of them had gone off.”

“Food was in short supply, and Dad usually went out at the weekend to get some rabbits for the family. He would shoot them – and us lads would use ferrets and nets. I remember mum skinning and gutting the rabbits for the pot. She also sent some to her mother who remained in her family home in Wales.”

“Mum would take some of the meat, carefully wrap it in waxed paper, then put it in a small tin or box. The tin was further wrapped in brown paper and grandmother’s address written on the top.

One of the jobs we had to do was to drop the package in to the post office on the way to school on the Monday morning. Surprisingly, despite there being a war on, most of the packages arrived in Wales the very next day!”

Wendover School as it looks today. Photo Simon Eccles

HS2 update

As we approach the anniversary of the start of construction at the Wendover green tunnel, progress on the structure continues to progress at pace. More than 1,300 tunnel segments have now been installed, marking a significant milestone as we pass the halfway point, with over 50% of all segments in place. Coming up over the next few months, we are planning to commence the spring chamber works to the northwest of Wendover as part of the green tunnel and north cutting works. The chamber is essential to maintaining groundwater levels and flows. Following the obtaining of planning approval, access to the site will now be via Nash Lee End, avoiding the use of South Street and Dobbins Lane.

The construction period is expected to last between 10-12 weeks, with work scheduled

to begin between March and April, subject to weather conditions and hibernation season ending. Our engagement team will be at the Wendover library on Thursday 5 March between 2pm–5pm should you wish to discuss the spring chamber or any other HS2 works around Wendover.

Through the HS2 Community and Environment Fund, Halton Parish Council have recently been awarded £100,000 towards their latest community project. The funds will go towards delivering essential heritage repairs, including restoration of the glass windows, to Halton Village Hall, a community facility at the heart of Halton.

If you would like to read more about the works and view the advance works notices and maps, then please go to HS2 website www.hs2.org.uk and click the ‘in your area section’ to view the interactive map. Alternatively, if you have a question about HS2 please contact our HS2 Helpdesk team on 08081 434 434 or email hs2enquiries@ hs2.org.uk Information above provided by EKFB, the prime

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The Stoke Mandeville skyline has changed again as the temporary haul road overbridge crossing the now-closed Risborough Road, was removed at the end of January (photos above and below). Pedestrian access to/from the Goat Centre was helpfully maintained. The next phase of work in that area, following a ‘Lego-like’ deconstruction of the bridge supports, will be the creation of the pedestrian underpass, and then over the top the continuation of the track embankment coming from Wendover.

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More than 50% of the Green Tunnel segments are now complete.

Overbridge main beams being removed.

The supports either side will now be removed like Lego!

A413 closures at Small Dean Viaduct

As we go to press a fortnight of weekday full overnight closures of the A413 is planned, to allow the viaduct’s parapet walls to be installed above the highway. We’re also expecting future closures when the road is moved to its final alignment; and this is anticipated to happen in the autumn.

Wendover Green Tunnel progressing

The Wendover bypass was closed for a weekend in February to create a new temporary access track from the A413, to deliver components of the northern end of the Green Tunnel structure.

Meanwhile the foundations are being created for the final fourth phase of the tunnel under the bailey bridges at Ellesborough Road. The tunnel shell is expected to be completed next year with the road being restored onto its original alignment in 2028. We’re in touch with the local residents now about the highway restoration plans which are being finalised in the next few months.

Rights of Way closures

Numerous rights of way have been closed to allow the railway to be constructed through the Chilterns, and there have been issues with providing good guidance to walkers about what routes are actually available.

Foundations being laid for the final section of the Green Tunnel under the bridges at Ellesborough Road.

(see screenshot below). Walkers or cyclists can zoom in and see where they are located on the map.

The website can be accessed at https:// tinyurl.com/WendoverPRoWs and there’s a user guide on our www.whs2.org website. There is also a QR code (shown below) to simplify access for visitors to Wendover, and we’re working with HS2 to get the signage beside the paths updated this spring.

Issues with HS2?

If you’re affected by the construction activity,

please contact the HS2 Helpdesk team on 08081 434 434 (which is available 24 hours a day) or email hs2enquiries@hs2.org.uk to get your issues resolved. It helps if you have photographic evidence and please get a complaint reference number so that we can follow up issues as needed.

Need our help?

If you need further help, want to join us, or have ideas and suggestions that would mitigate the community impact, then get in touch at enquiries@whs2.org

With continued pressure on HS2 over the last two years on this we’re pleased to report that they have now made available on online map system that can be accessed by smartphone

Yikes Toto - The Great Wendover Tornado of 1950 !!!

By Sean McCarthy

We read more and more that climate change is making weather events increasingly extreme, but almost 76 years ago the people of Wendover experienced one of the most severe local weather events ever, when a tornado hit the town on the afternoon of Sunday, 21 May 1950.

The tornado was to become the longestlasting and furthest-travelling tornado in recorded UK history. It began its destructive path near Wendover Dean and travelled in an almost straight line for around 130 miles to Blakeney in Norfolk, where it finally lost its energy over the sea.

Britain - tornado capital?!

Tornadoes in the UK are not as rare as you might think, with the Met Office reporting about 30 tornadoes per year. Curiously, England has one of the highest tornado densities in the world, averaging 2.2 tornadoes per 10,000 square kilometres – a higher density than the United States (1.3) due to our relatively small land mass combined with a maritime climate. However, these are usually low-energy, very short-lived events and may only travel a mile or so, so may go unnoticed or at least unreported.

The Met Office report on the Wendover tornado states that on that 1950 Sunday morning thunderstorms were blowing in from the Channel Islands, and by lunchtime they had reached Wendover, bringing violent winds and large hailstones to some areas. Across the South East of England, “widespread flooding was reported and one tornado left a trail of damage stretching 65 miles.”

Late May is actually a prime time for thunderstorms in southern England. Warm, humid air near the ground rises over land heated by the late spring sun, eventually meeting much cooler air higher up in the atmosphere. If winds near the ground blow in one direction while winds higher up blow faster or from a slightly different direction, the rising air can begin to rotate. As the spinning tightens – like a skater pulling in their arms – a funnel forms and may eventually reach the ground.

A trail of destruction

The tornado that tore through Wendover was quite narrow, about 50 to 100 metres wide, concentrating its energy in a relatively small area. Damage to buildings, as seen in historic aerial photographs, shows roofs destroyed on one side of the High Street and Aylesbury Road, while houses on the other side appear untouched. One of the most severely damaged buildings was The George pub, which lost its roof completely.

As the tornado continued through the RAF Halton airbase, it flipped over a Vampire fighter jet and lifted the roof off the camp’s powerhouse, dropping it about a mile away in Aston Clinton. Fortunately, nobody in the Wendover area was killed, possibly because it was a Sunday and fewer people were in the streets. However, tragically a young girl lost her life in the accompanying flooding in Bedfordshire.

The greatest destruction was reported in the village of Linslade (Leighton Buzzard), 15 miles north-east of Wendover, where more than 200 houses were damaged, with 50 having their roofs completely stripped of tiles.

How strong was it?

It has been estimated that wind speeds may have reached up to 135 mph, although no anemometers (wind-speed sensors) lay directly in the tornado’s path.

Eyewitness statements and damage reports indicate a TORRO T-scale rating of T4 (tornado strength estimated from its impact on buildings and objects). T4 is defined as a severe tornado, with “winds from 115 to 136 mph, capable of lifting cars, removing entire roofs from houses, exposing roof timbers of stronger brick or stone buildings, tearing away gable ends, uprooting numerous trees, and carrying debris for up to 2 km.”

All of which occurred in Wendover and other places along the route. In addition,

there were reports of a large waterspout as the tornado crossed the canal, as well as cattle and complete outbuildings being lifted into the air.

As the tornado developed, two shorterlived side branches spun out near Bedford, heading north towards Peterborough. As the warm air met colder rainfall, large hailstones formed, causing serious damage along the route and appearing like snow that remained on the ground further east of Wendover for up to 24 hours. A number of locations in the Vale of Aylesbury and the valleys of the Ouse and Nene also experienced severe flooding.

Insurance claims for damage along the track between Wendover and Ely were estimated at £50,000 at the time, which, allowing for inflation in property and insurance costs, would equate to approximately £7.35 million today.

Wendover News is keen to hear from anyone who remembers being told stories about, or who actually witnessed, the Wendover Tornado of 1950. We would be pleased to publish photographs or personal accounts of this historic event in a future edition.

Incidents like the tornado, hail and flooding that wreaked such damage across our area of the country remind us of the power of nature and the importance of community readiness, good planning, and the neighbourly spirit that helps villages recover when the unexpected happens.

The 130 mile track of the tornado from Wendover Dean to Blakeney. Source -OpenStreetMap; Met Office; Wendover News

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Club Corner

Aylesbury Centre of the National Trust

Tony Fanthorpe writes: One of the functions of your local Aylesbury Centre of the National Trust is to help the Trust by donating towards projects. For the year just ended we have funded projects totalling just over £4,000. These include Basildon Park (accessible picnic bench); Claydon (Christmas booklet printing; silk flowers and foliage); Dunstable Downs (sensory garden project); Greys Court (repair of Japanese Tea Caddy); Hughenden (garden bench); and Stowe (towards wildlife camera equipment).

The Aylesbury Centre NT exists to add value to your NT membership or volunteering, through social events, whilst raising funds in support of local NT projects. Members pay £3 entrance to talks, which includes refreshments. Visitors are very welcome and pay a small supplement.

Annual membership is £12.

The 2026 programme started in January with a very well attended talk at Broughton Junior School on ‘The Hidden Rivers of London’, and continues with monthly talks (see Wendover News – Events), two Spring outings to Houghton Mill (NT) and Anglesey Abbey (NT) in April, and a Canal Cruise in May, with further outings (both by coach and self-drive) planned for later in the year.

For more information and a membership form, please contact the honorary secretary at aylesburycentrent@gmail.com, or phone/ SMS 07399 540626. Also on Facebook: as “Aylesbury Centre of the National Trust.”

Wendover Bowls Club

Don Knight writes: A few years ago, someone presented me with some beautiful wooden bowls made of Lignum Vitae, one of the hardest and densest woods known.

They were presented as a prize in 1913 at The Orcadians Bowls Club, whose green was where the Red Lion car park is now. They are now given annually at our club for the “Unsung Hero” who has helped at the club throughout the year.

How things have changed. We now play with bowls made from melamine composite formed in a press and turned on a CNC lathe.

There are about six main manufacturers making bowls of differing weights and sizes and also different rolling trajectories, but at the end of the day, it is still dependent on the skill of the bowler, which is probably my downfall as my bowls seem to have a mind of their own no matter how kindly I talk to them.

I noticed that the green had been mown the other day. It is looking good with the ministrations of the greenskeeper and a few members paying dividends through the winter.

We just need to persuade Mr Fox and his crow friends not to dig holes in it and we should have a good season… if the rain ever stops!

Our inter-club

games and our own internal matches are in full swing, and we have a full programme of coffee mornings for the club funds and for charity and also evening events on the cards.

Let’s just hope that the sun will shine on us all soon though, being a pessimist, I expect Thames Water will impose a hosepipe ban.

Wendover Cricket Club

Wendover CC’s cricket training is continuing indoors and for any enquiries, please contact wccjuniorscontact@gmail.com and for seniors Jonathan Seabrook on 07767 148119.

Wendover Evening WI

At the January meeting of Wendover Evening WI, members presented two charities with cheques of £1,000 each.

This money was raised from the WI fetes and sales of 2025. The recipients were Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity and Medical Detection Dogs.

Wendover Evening WI with one of their £1,000 fundraising cheques

Bucks Local Plan

Wendover Parish CouncilView from the Clock Tower

Many people will be aware that the Government is keen to hit new housing targets and is requiring Local Government to support that. The government sets out its policy in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and the current target is 95,000 extra residences over the next 20 years in Buckinghamshire alone. This volume of development will impact everyone. Buckinghamshire Council, as a part of this target, are creating the Buckinghamshire Local Plan. This plan should balance economic, social and environmental objectives to plan for the development needs of Buckinghamshire.

Wendover Parish Council are working with the neighbouring parishes and the Wendover Society to produce a response to the Buckinghamshire Local Plan. The ambition being we have a response that is informed and evidenced by the views of Wendover residents.

In reality the Chilterns National Landscape (formerly called Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) will protect Wendover from a lot of development, but it won’t stop development around the other local parishes, and it will not stop pressure on the schools, GP surgeries and parking in Wendover.

We have worked with the Wendover Society to hold a public meeting in the Wendover Memorial Hall on Thursday 19 March, at which we will brief residents on

Wendover Local Produce Market

everything we know and get feedback on the proposals. We are inviting everyone to attend and keep an eye for the posters.

Annual Parish Meeting and community showcase

Advance notice for your diary - Thursday 16 April from 6pm, Wendover Community Library.

The Parish Council is open to all to attend any meeting (excepting confidential business). We often get views and enquiries through the office and perhaps less helpfully on social media!

The Annual Parish Meeting is designed to be a perfect opportunity to find out what we have been doing for Wendover and give any feedback in person. The meeting starts off with a community showcase of local community groups and organisations explaining what they are up to and any opportunities to get involved.

The highlight is our awards for people who have benefitted Wendover. We are now asking people to consider nominating people who you think deserve recognition. We have the following categories: Lifetime Achievement

Recognising an individual or organisation that has made a lasting impact on Wendover over many years.

Business of the Year

Honouring a business that has shown outstanding commitment and made a

positive contribution to the community.

Environmental Champion

Recognising an individual or group whose commitment to protecting and enhancing Wendover’s natural environment has made a significant and lasting impact on the community.

Service with a Smile

For a business or individual known for consistently providing friendly and exceptional service.

Volunteer of the Year

Recognising an individual or organisation that has dedicated their time and effort to helping others in the past year.

Please visit www.wendover-pc.gov.uk/ community-awards for more information and to nominate.

Easter Egg Hunt

There will be an Easter Egg Hunt at the Local Produce Market on Sat 21 March. The market runs from 10am to 2pm and it is free for all to attend. There will be prizes for completing the hunt so all are welcome

Thank you from a resident

“To the kind gentleman, who found and handed in to Sweeney’s in Wendover, the purse I dropped on Saturday 7 February. Thank you so much. I am so grateful for your honesty.”

Best wishes V Marsden

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 21 March, 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: 3 March, 7:4 0pm Main Meeting room, Wendover Library Information about upcoming meetings: www.wendover-pc.gov.uk

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