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October 2026

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Sean McCarthy's imagined missing piece of the Bayeux Tapestry, rendered by AI, as it might have been if the ends hadn't fallen off, and the clock tower had been built 1,000 years earlier and etc, etc...

Why is Wendover missing from the Bayeux Tapestry? By Sean McCarthy

not yet secured the English crown. He was still uncertain if the Anglo Saxon Lords and Bishops would resist his claim to the throne. Many scholars believe the complete tapestry would at least have shown the Duke of Normandy being crowned King of England and probably other significant events up to his coronation in London on Christmas Day 1066. After the Battle of Hastings, it was vital for William to subdue London. However, William was repelled in his first attack on the city and took his army of around 8,000 men further to the west, crossing the Thames at Wallingford, the first place to ford the river with a large army without the need for boats or a bridge. This is the point at which William’s march

It would be difficult to miss the news about the exhibition of the Bayeux Tapestry at the British Museum from 10 September 2026 until 11 July 2027. This is the first time the Bayeux Tapestry (or more accurately embroidery) has been in England since its creation in Canterbury by English embroiderers during the late 11th century, prior to being shipped off to the Bayeux Cathedral in France. Although the Bayeux Tapestry is a massive 70 metres long, it is incomplete. The final scenes of the tapestry show the Anglo Saxons being chased after the Battle of Hastings. At this point in history, Duke William of Normandy had won a battle, but he had

north-east from Wallingford to London, becomes frightening for the people of the Chilterns. Professor John Beeler argued in his 1966 book Warfare in England 1066-1189, “From Wallingford, the main body of the army continued its march along the Icknield Way, keeping the Chiltern Hills as something of a shield on its rank flank, to Risborough and Wendover” Although many historians accept that William marched from Wallingford to Berkhamsted, some caution that his precise route cannot be determined with certainty. However, we do know that he accepted the submission of the Archbishop of Canterbury at Wallingford and then marched to Berkhamsted or probably... (cont. p12)

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Contents – October 2026 Why is Wendover missing?.................Front Events ...................................................... 2 Regular events.......................................... 5 Local News............................................... 9 Pub Trail report ...................................... 10 Climate change crreates CLAW growth... 11 New ‘markets’ policy.............................. 13

October Events Autumn Vaccinations Wendover Pharmacy is offering a walk-in service from Thursday 1 October for Flu and Covid vaccinations, or you can book with westongrove.com. More details on p11.

Performing arts and culture.................... 14

MacMillan Coffee Morning

A splash of creativity............................... 16

Thu 1, 10.30-12pm, The Ark Stoke Mandeville, HP22 5UT Coffee Stop and McMillan Coffee Morning and raffle. email: ellen.cowley1@ntlworld.com

Stoke Mandeville war memorial.............. 19 A morning with Greg Smith MP.............. 20 HS2/WHS2............................................. 22 EKFB visit invitation................................. 23 Mining bees at the new cricket ground... 24 Club Corner............................................ 27 From the Clock Tower............................. 28

Published by Wendover Community News CIC: A community-owned company. Editorial Team: Richard Byford, Sean McCarthy, Jo Durden-Moore, Simon Eccles, Jane Larkham, Jon Theobald and Wynne Byford Coordination, ads, social media and online: Wynne Byford

Wendover Horticultural Society Thu 1, 2.30-4.30pm St Anne’s Hall, HP22 6JG ‘History and Restoration of the Wendover Canal’, a talk by Clive Johnson, Chair of the Wendover Canal Trust. Price £3 Email: marionwoodman@thepennings.uk

Accounts: James Harrington Distribution and deliveries: Brigitta Hotya and around 70 other brilliant volunteers!

Fri 2, 10.30am Wendover Christian Centre HP22 6JG Whether it be mountains or marshes, cities or seascapes, this month’s theme is poetry that is rooted in a sense of place. All welcome who share a love of poetry.

Fri 2, 11.30am-12.30pm Wendover Library, HP22 6DU The Ashridge Estate ‘Protecting Our Roots’ with speaker Grace Chew from the National Trust. Learn about ancient trees, royal heritage, the centuries of protected landscape and plans to safeguard the future of Ashbridge Estate. (see p12). Ask at the library counter to add your name to the attendee list or contact mayuko. yamada@gmail.com.

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St Anne’s Hall N EED A V ENUE? R EGUL AR S ATURDAYS PLUS OTHER S ESSIONS A VAIL ABLE FOR ALL ENQUIRES PLEASE CONTACT ANGELA GERMAN

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Wendover News October 2026

Fri 2, 7.45pm, St Leonard’s Parish Hall, Jenkins Lane, St Leonards, HP23 6NW Speaker Dr Wendy Morrison, The talk is called ‘A River Runs Through It - Water and Human Settlement in the Chilterns’. Visitors £5. Email:localhistorygroup@ cholesbury.com. or visit www.cholesbury.com

Charity second-hand book sale Sat 3, 10am-1pm Wendover Library In aid of Weston Turville Wells for Tanzania.

Harvest Lunch, Bring & Share Sat 3, 12pm, The Ark Risborough Road, HP22 5UT Email: ellen.cowley1@ntlworld.com.

Keyboard Kaleidoscope Poetry Please

Climate Action Wendover Talks Production: Jon Theobald, Richard Byford and Wynne Byford

Cholesbury-Cum-St Leonards Local History Group

Fri 2, 7pm Wendover Memorial Hall, HP22 6HF Fancy a fun night out while supporting a great local cause? Gather your team, put your general knowledge to the test and enjoy an evening of quiz questions, chips and lots of laughs. Every penny raised helps Chilterns Neuro Centre support and empower people affected by MS, Parkinson’s and strokes. To book visit: chilternsneurocentre.org/quiz

LEGACY FAIRS

Antiques & Collectors Market Wendover Memorial Hall

Thursday 15 October 9am-2pm (Trade 8am)

Wendover Music Sun 4, 4pm, St Mary’s Church, Wendover Lumas Winds will include works by JS Bach, Gustav Holst, Gyorgy Ligeti, Jean Françaix, Werner Pirchner, Amy Beach, Malcolm Arnold and Rimsky-Korsakov. Tickets £25 adults, £10 students over 5 years, from Just, High St, (credit card only), online at www.wendovermusic.org.uk or at the door (cash and card). Further details 07812 984236, wendovermusic@gmail.com. See p15.

Countrymen’s Club for retired men Mons 5 & 19, 1.30-3pm, Road Farm Great Missenden, HP16 9LS At Countryways, based at a working family farm. Meet like-minded countryside-loving gentlemen and participate in farm-related tasks. A small voluntary charge is suggested at £10-15pp per session if affordable. Please email to book a place: office.rfcountryways@ gmail.com.

RAF Flypasts:

For updates Tel: 07543 524212 or email: p.hetheringtonwh@gmail.com Entrance by donation to Charity

Sat 3, 7.30pm, St Peter & St Paul Church, Tring An evening of musical virtuosity with organ, piano and keyboard skills from Anna Le Hair, Margaret Flanigan and Colin Stevens - and lan Lynch on trumpet. Special performance from Aldwickbury School Chamber Choir directed by Anna Stevens. Tickets £20 inclusive of wine from Grahame Senior 01442 822770 or gsenior@seniorpartners.co.uk. All proceeds and donations in aid of the Save our Walls Appeal for the church.

To celebrate the completion of training at RAF Halton, flypasts will take place, weather permitting, at 13:30 on Wednesdays 7 and 21 October

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Kimble & Ellesborough Horticultural Society

Rotary Duck Race

Tue 6, 8pm, Stewart Hall Little Kimble HP17 OXN Planting Pots for Winter interest and Spring Joy. Harriet Rycroft was the Head Gardener at Whichford Pottery for many years and created some spectacular displays. Her talk starts with slides followed by a practical planting demonstration. www.kehs.uk

Wendover u3a Talk Wed 7, 10am, St Mary’s Church, HP22 6NL From a Hard Place to a Rock. First-hand accounts of soldiers of the British Expeditionary Force on the run in World War Two. This talk follows events in the summer of 1940.

Sun 11, 2pm, Heron Stream, HP22 6NN Three races in aid of Rotary supported charities. Cash prizes. £2 for small ducks. Get your duck number from Cheryl, Wendover Rotary: rotary.md3agmail.com.. See p11.

Politics Book Club Mon 12, 7-8.30pm, Wendover Library ‘Head North’ by Andy Burnham and Steve Rotheram. In Head North, Andy Burnham and Steve Rotheram propose an ambitious ten-point plan to rewire and reimagine our country beyond the Westminster bubble. There will be a great deal to discuss so join what will be a fascinating and very dynamic debate.

Thu 8, 4.30-6pm, Road Farm, HP16 9LS Learn and care for the goat herd, get moving outdoors, and share stories that spark connection. These sessions are designed to support both physical and mental wellbeing while bringing generations together in a friendly, inclusive environment. There is a cost of £5 per family of 2 people per session. To book:www.trybooking.com/uk/GMUO

The BML Walk A Thon! 9, 10 & 11 Oct, from BML Fitness Studio A relay walk over 3 days fundraising for Little Acorns, starting and changing over at the BML Fitness Studio. Each hour will have a minimum of 2 people walking. Book your chosen slot online using the below link, Book Online | BML Personal Training and Fitness Studio then pay £10 per hour to: https://gvwhl.com/DLTH8

Tue 13, 12-2pm, Wendover Library, HP22 6DU To book a slot email: iain@protrustconsulting. co.uk or tel: 01296 415700.

Aylesbury Centre of the National Trust Thu 15, 7.30pm for 8pm Broughton Junior School HP20 1NQ Colin Oakes speaks on ‘Never had it so good - London 1956-1963’. Details from Hon Sec, phone/SMS 07399 540626, email aylesburycentrent@gmail.com, or Facebook.

Chiltern Writers Thu 15, 8pm, St Anne’s Hall, HP22 6JG Author Toby Frost will talk on the topic: World Building in Science Fiction and Comedy. Free entry for members; £5 for visitors. Meeting begins with free tea and coffee. www.chiltern-writers.org

Local Produce Market Race Night with FOWL Fri 9, 7-10pm St Anne’s Hall, Wendover, HP22 6JG Organised by Friends of Wendover Community Library. Eight races. Food included: choose Steak Diane casserole or mushroom stroganoff with rice. Bring your own drinks. Tickets £20. Order your meal when booking: fowlmembers@hotmail.com.

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Acer Corner Open Garden Sat 17 & Sun 18, 2-5pm 10 Manor Road, Wendover HP22 6HQ Enjoy the autumn colours of almost 70 unique Japanese maples (Acers) in a stunning Japanese-inspired garden. Lovingly designed by owner Jo Naiman, it offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere with beautiful Japanese maples and carefully placed shrubs and stones. Entree receipts go to the National Garden Scheme charity.

Afternoon Tea Wills and estate planning surgery

Goat Club monthly meet up

craft is on the Endangered List. She will talk about the art of creating and using elaborate trimmings such as tassels, braids and fringes. email: aylesburyvalestitchers@gmail.com.

Sat 17, Manor Waste Find the pumpkin for a free prize, Organised by Wendover Parish Council.

Aylesbury Vale Stitchers Sat 17, 2-4.30pm Wendover Memorial Hall, HP22 6HF Elizabeth Ashdown is one of the very few Passementerie Specialists in the UK and the

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Sat 17, 2.30-4.30pm, Damien Hall, 23 High St, Great Missenden, HP16 9AA In aid of Thames Valley Air Ambulance. Raffle, Gift and Produce stalls. Tickets £10, incl tea and cake, from Samways/The Post Office, Great Missenden. If you are a party of 4 or more, would like to make a donation or to buy Raffle Tickets, contact: Jill York: 07846 534301, jillelizabethyork@yahoo.co.uk

Quiz & Chips Sat 17, 3.30 for 4pm The Ark, Risborough Rd, Stoke Mandeville, HP22 5UT TIckets: £17.50 pp. To book your fish & chips please email: bookingsattheark@gmail.com.

RSPB Mon 19, 7.30 pm, Prebendal Hall Community Centre, Aylesbury HP19 7QW, ‘Gorillas in my midst - a Ugandan odyssey’ with Graham Lenton. More info at group. rspb.org.uk/Aylesbury.

BBOWT Chilterns Group Tue 20, 7pm for 7.30pm, Great Missenden Memorial Centre An update by Nick Marriner of Chilterns National Landscape on efforts to recover the natural diversity of farmland through the formation of ‘Farmer Clusters’. Admission is £6 inc. refreshments. See p27. 

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Wendover News October 2026

Wildlife Wednesday Walks Wed 21, 5pm, Road Farm, HP16 9LS A gentle guided wander to see wildlife that is active at dusk. Each month brings something different, and you’re invited to join, observe, listen, and enjoy the changing countryside. ‘Mushrooms & autumn treasures’ A twilight wander to spot fungi and other seasonal surprises. To book: www.trybooking. com/uk/GWRH.

The Arts Society Ballinger

Thu 22 , 2.30pm-4pm, Wendover Library More than Dreams. Speaker: Jean Corfield, Travel Memoirist. Hear about Jean’s extraordinary life living in, and travelling to, more than one hundred countries with her family. (see p12). Ask at the library counter to add your name to the attendee list or contact frances@ spokenwordltd.com.

Thu 29, 7.30 for 8pm, Ballinger Village Hall Ballinger, Great Missenden, HP16 9LG The Art of Art Deco. Lecturer: Pamela Campbell-Johnstone. Art Deco’s 20th century glamour shaped the 1920s-30s. This lecture explores its social and economic roots and examines objets d’art such as silver, jewellery, furniture, ceramics, clocks and architecture. Pamela has conducted numerous guided tours, residential trips and focused gallery talks on individual works of Art Deco and is a freeman of the Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars. For more details email artsocballinger@gmail.com or visit www. theartssocietyballinger.org.uk

Wendover Art Club

Jazz Upfront: Judah Daniels Trio

Thu 22, 7.30pm, St Anne’s Hall, HP22 6JG. A demonstration by Justine Thorpe, a professional abstract and semi-abstract artist whose work is inspired by her curiosity about nature. wendoverartclub.co.uk/. See p15.

Thu 29, St Mary’s, Aylesbury, HP20 2JJ Judah Daniels is forging an exciting path in contemporary jazz. On stage he will be joined by George Grundy (drums) and Josh Vadiveloo (double bass). Tickets from @ Aylesbury Music Shop: or from www.ents24.com/aylesbury-events/ jazzupfront-st-marys-church/judah-danielstrio/7513839. See p15.

Wendover Talks

Jazz Evening Sat 24, 7.30pm, St Mary’s Church, Drayton Beauchamp ‘Lend Us A Tenor’, a 7-piece group will play

mostly ‘jazz standards’. Tickets: £10 on the door or at bit.ly/3S87mpg. Licensed bar. Proceeds go to the church upkeep. See p15.

Wendover News October 2026

Weston Turville Historical Society Fri 30, 7.30 for 8pm Weston Turville Village Hall, HP221 5RW Tony Ferguson will talk about Rebellion, Regicide, Graffiti & Body Snatching: a colourful history of a Bucks village church. £2 for members and £3 visitors. www.wthsoc.org.uk

Bucks Art Society Autumn Exhibition 2026 Sat 31 Oct–Sun 1 Nov Wendover Memorial Hall, HP22 6AF Fri 30 Oct, 6.30pm – 9pm: Preview Evening & Young Artist Awards (YAA). 7pm: Award presentations and official opening. Open 10am-5pm on 31 October and 1 November. There should be something to suit every taste. Drinks will be provided. Free entry. www.bucksart.co.uk. See ad p5 and p16 for more details.

Halloween Trail Sat 31, 12pm-4pm, Manor Waste Organised by J Brown Funeral Services in partnership with Wendover Parish Council. Free entry - collect entry form from Manor Waste on the day. Everyone who completes the trail will receive a free bag of treats. Spooky fancy dress definitely encouraged.

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REGULAR EVENTS 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.

Knit and Stitch at Gusto 3rd Monday of the month, 2pm Castle Park Road, Wendover, HP22 6AE Enjoy a relaxed afternoon of knitting and sewing. Share your skills and learn from others. gusto-world.com/

Yoga with Alice D Mons, Wendover Mem Hall, (term time) 10-11am, Mum and Baby Yoga 11.15am–12pm, Yoga with Movers 12.15–12.50pm, Yoga Tots Mons, Halton Village Hall, HP22 5NG 7–8.15pm, Pregnancy Yoga 8.30–9.45pm, Women’s Yoga

Weds, Wendover Mem Hall, (term time) 10.30–11.30am, Nurture Baby Massage12–1pm, Women’s Yoga Sat, Wendover Woods, (Spring to Autumn) 8.15–9.30am, Women’s Yoga in the Woods Website: www.yogawithaliced.com

Busylizzy classes: Mons, St Mary’s Church, Wendover 1pm, Baby Massage. 1.45pm, Postnatal Yoga (babies welcome). Tues, St Anne’s Hall, Wendover 10am, Postnatal Pilates (babies welcome). Thurs, Wendover Memorial Hall 10am,Postnatal Circuits (babies welcome). 1.15pm, Baby Music. Contact Emma to book on: 07418 609829. www.busylizzy.co.uk/wendover.

Simply Walks and Cycle Rides Wendover – Tues: Weekly walks from the Clock Tower, leave 10am. Socialise after at Wendover Christian Centre. Aston Clinton – Thurs: Leave Aston Clinton Park at 10.30am. Meet by ‘Your Café in the Park.’ Refreshments afterwards. Register 15 minutes beforehand at both locations. Aylesbury Cycling UK – Suns. Easy pace: every 1st and 3rd week of the month, about 30 miles. Newcomers: each 2nd and 4th week, about 20 miles. www.cyclinguk.org/group/ aylesbury-cycling-uk.

Purssell Path volunteers 2nd and 4th Tues, 10am, Purssell Path Sign Helping maintain this natural space and pathway. Bring your own tools and gloves.

Yoga with Sarah

Knit and Natter

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

Tue, 2-4pm,Wendover Library Meet 1st Tuesday each month. Bring your own knitting, crochet, or craft project or use the libary’s materials.

Liz Brown Yoga WPC Ivy Volunteers 1st and 3rd Tues, Meet 10am, Clock Tower Supporting Wendover Parish Council protecting trees. Equipment provided, feel free to bring your own tools and gloves.

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

THANKSGIVING AND MEMORIAL SERVICE

Sunday 1st November 3.00pm St Mary’s Church, Wendover A service to remember our loved ones whether they have died in recent months or longer ago. If you would like a loved one named during the service, please email to info@stmaryswendover.org, drop into JUST, 11 High Street, Wendover, or pick up a leaflet from the back of one of the churches. Thank you.

Everyone is Welcome.

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Wendover News October 2026

Diamond Bridge Club Tues 6.45 for 7pm, Ellesborough Village Hall, HP17 0XA A friendly club who play bridge in a relaxed environment. Any questions or if you would like to join, email barbara.barnes@me.com.

Cracklewick Morris Tues, 8.15-10.15pm Halton Village Hall, HP22 5NG All-inclusive mixed Morris side who meet most Tuesdays for dance practice. All welcome – musicians and dancers. No dance experience needed. Email cracklewickmorris@gmail.com

Yoga and KundaDance classes Guide Hut, Manor Cr, Wendover, HP22 6HH Chair Yoga Weds, 9.30-10.15 and 10.30-11.15 www.happywellyoga.com/all-classes/ chair-yoga Slow Flow Yoga Fris, 9-10am KundaDance Fris, 10.15-11.15am, www.happywellyoga.com/all-classes

told the truth? Explore new perspectives through talks and discussion. Check schedule on the website below. £5 non members. www.chilternslightnetwork.org or email ChilternsLight@proton.me

Aston Clinton: benefice3@gmail.com Stoke Mandeville: racheljblackmore@gmail. com Wendover: frances@spokenwordltd.com or jenny.summerfield@hotmail.com.

French speaking/listening at Gusto

Book Club

10.30, 1st and 3rd Thurs Castle Park Road, Wendover, HP22 6AE gusto-world.com/

Sat 17, 10.30-11.30am Wendover Christian Centre HP22 6JG No set books. Just hear about what others have been reading and, if you wish, share something you have read recently. Begins with coffee and sometimes cake. All welcome.

Board Game Café Thurs 8 and 22, 2-4pm Wendover Christian Centre HP22 6JG Enjoy a variety of games old and new or bring your own to play with others. Open and free of charge for all ages.

NOV 2026 Countrymen’s Club for retired men Mons 2, 16 and 30, 1.30-3pm, Road Farm Great Missenden, HP16 9LS At Countryways, meet and chat with likeminded countryside-loving gentlemen. Email to book: office.rfcountryways@gmail.com.

Halton Art Group Thurs, 1.30-3.30pm Halton Village Hall, HP22 5NG Join the fun with a small local Art group. £15 per session. A tutor attends every 5 weeks. Refreshments provided. Tel: 077538 41590.

Remembrance Parade and Service Sun 8, Wendover

Fitness and Fun for the Over-60’s Craft Group Weds 7 and 21, 10am-12 noon 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 just come to see what others are doing. Coffee served at about 11am. Newcomers always welcome!

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

Chilterns Light Network Weds, 7.30 for 8pm Wendover Memorial Hall What’s going on in the world? Are we being

Thurs, 2-3pm, Stoke Mandeville Community Centre, Eskdale Road Every other Thursday afternoon. Refreshments afterwards. clerk@stokemandeville-pc.gov.uk.

Wendover Free Church Event

Local Repair Cafés

Wildlife Wednesday Walks

Sat 3, 10am-12pm Weston Turville Village Hall Sat 10, 9.00am-12pm St. Michael’s Church, Aston Clinton Sat 17, 10am-12pm The Bull, Stoke Mandeville Sat 24, 9.30am-12pm, Wendover Library Bring your beloved broken stuff and the local experts will do what they can to repair them. Anything from clothing, toys, ornaments, jewellery, gardening tools to electrical and mechanical items. You may want to check which repairers are available before travelling. Tea, coffee and cake while you wait. For further information contact: Weston Turville: davidbblackmore@gmail.com

Wed 18, 5pm, Road Farm, HP16 9LS ‘Dark evenings, bright discoveries’ Explore the night landscape. To book: www. trybooking.com/uk/GWRH.

Picture Framing

Planning ahead? Here’s the next Wendover News production dates. To ensure we have enough space, email newsdesk@wendovernews.org or advertising@wendovernews.org. If you want to be included, let us know as early as possible. Ad and submission deadline (18:00) November 2026 12 October 26 Winter 2026 9 November 26

HOME REARED MEATS LOCAL PRODUCE

a little bird told me gallery Established 2009

Sat 14, Wendover Christian Centre and St. Anne’s Hall. Green Christmas. e-mail: minister@wendoverfreechurch.org.uk, by 16 October. See p10.

HOME COOKED FOOD

Jackie Morris - The Book of Birds

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Wendover News October 2026

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Wendover News October 2026

WENDOVER SOFT TISSUE THERAPY Anna Barton LSSM, ISRM

Sports & Remedial Massage Therapy qualified since 2004

Studio based just off Wendover High Street emergency / home visits possible

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BARRY LIPSCOMBE House Clearance • • • • • •

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Wendover News October 2026

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Local News Wendover Evening WI Alison Jarvis Evans writes: “I joined the Wendover Women’s Institute (WI) at the age of 61, having recently retired. I wasn’t too sure what to expect, having heard varying accounts of WI Groups. I’m now four years in. I have been amazed and delighted by the opportunities which are on offer by this vibrant and energetic group of ladies of the Wendover WI. I never imagined that I would enjoy being a member so much!

My membership has bought me some wonderful outings to iconic places, such as Kensington Palace; lunch on a cruise boat on the Thames with fantastic views of Windsor Castle; the Vyne, a National Trust property; and an intimate tour of the Palace of Westminster. All things which I most definitely would not have arranged on my own. Apart from enjoying ourselves we regularly hold events to raise money for charities, which is enormous fun for the whole WI team. There’s a monthly meeting with inspirational speakers, homemade cake and tea and 15 interest groups which meet most months. However, aside from all of this, it’s the enduring friendship groups which I have made through joining which is most valuable to me.” It’s not all jam and Jerusalem at Wendover WI! If you are newly retired and

contemplating how to enjoy your retirement, or you are of any age and looking to meet new friends and have fun, please consider joining Wendover Evening WI. Contact Sheila Hemmings on 077431 33963, if you would like to join and you live in Wendover.

Wendover Horticultural Society – Growing Ambitions Sean MacCarthy writes: Wendover News had the opportunity to speak with Diane Smith the Acting Chair of the Wendover Horticultural Society and asked her about the activities and plans of this long-established Wendover institution. The WHS is predominantly a learning group with expert speakers giving talks the first Thursday of the month at St. Annes Hall in Wendover. Topics are diverse and range from a head gardener talking about salvias, or how the Horatio Garden at Stoke at Stoke Mandeville Hospital was created to hedge laying or wildlife photography. WHS is an extremely friendly group with none of the rivalry sometimes seen in clichéd views of village horticultural societies, mainly because WHS steers clear of the Annual Flower and Produce Competition preferring to arrange visits to beautiful gardens and enlisting engaging speakers. Diane said the WHS currently has over 35 members but went through a tough patch during and immediately after the Covid pandemic, so the group is encouraging new members of all ages and horticultural interests. Wendover News will be reporting in more detail on the activities and plans of the Wendover Horticultural Society in the coming months, but in the meantime, you can contact Diane on diane.smith131@btinternet. com to find out about membership and future events.

Speeding drivers beware in Wendover A new team of Community Speed Watch volunteers is preparing to take to the streets and deter speeding in Wendover. The Wendover CSW team met in August for some practical training and a review of all the procedures, with Thames Valley PC Lee Turnham and Chris Popovici-Birkby, who is vice-chair of Weston Turville Parish Council and an experienced speed watch volunteer. Each volunteer had already completed the mandatory online CSW training, which takes no more than 30 minutes. They are planning to start their first campaign in October, working closely with the Weston Turville team across both parishes. Wendover Parish Councillor Frances Tipper is one of the volunteers. She says “If you are tired of seeing drivers racing through Wendover or Weston Turville with little care or consideration for your community, please come and join the team. “By volunteering for an hour a month to record speeding drivers and stop dangerous driving, the team will gather enough data to prove that we need speed limit reductions and road calming schemes to make our town safer for locals and visitors. 

Volunteers met in the Red Lion in Wendover.

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“We need people from all parts of Wendover and Weston Turville to take action so please sign up and encourage a neighbour to do the same!” For more information or to join the group please contact Frances Tipper (frances@ spokenwordltd.com) or Bridget Barley (bridget@storybcreative.co.uk).

Ready to Grow Your Own? Have you thought about having an allotment? Weston Turville Allotment Association have announced that plots are now available at the Mullins Field allotments on Church Lane (off World’s End Lane) in Weston Turville. The plots are of several different sizes, suitable for all types of growers and lifestyles. Now is an excellent time of year to start an allotment plot, preparing it for the Winter and having it all ready to go in the Spring. There is always plenty of help and friendly advice for beginners and experts alike. For more information or to arrange a visit please email wtaacommittee@gmail.com or call 07399 540626.

Chiltern Brewery’s Beechwood Bitter wins another award Beechwood Bitter, one of Chiltern Brewery’s flagship bolted beers, was awarded two stars at the Great Taste Awards 2026, organised by the Guild of Fine Food. The top award was three stars. George Jenkinson, co-director of Chiltern Brewery, said “Beechwood Bitter has received Great Taste recognition for three consecutive years, including two-star awards in both 2025 and 2026. The awards are judged through blind tasting by independent food and drink experts, so the judges are considering the beer itself rather than its branding, packaging or story. For a beer we have been brewing for more than four decades, that makes the recognition especially satisfying.” Sweeney Morrisons in Wendover is one of the local stockists of Chiltern Brewery beers, and they can also be bought directly from the Brewery’s own shop in Terrick and through its online shop at www.chilternbrewery.co.uk.

Wendover News October 2026

A chance to see what archaeologists found beneath the cricket pitch Simon Eccles writes: Members of Wendover Cricket Club are being invited to an online presentation on 14 October, on the archaeological dig that preceded the construction of its new club house and pitch. Non-members can watch it on their own devices if they pre-register with Eventbrite – it’s completely free. As detailed in Wendover News November 2024, the HS2-funded dig by Cotswold Archaeology in 2024 revealed a section of a previously unknown Iron Age Settlement that lasted well into the Romano-British era. An interim report on the findings was published in August 2025. This was essentially a catalogue of all the things that were dug up. Cotswold Archaeology says it will publish its full report, with the analysis of what it all means, early next year. Wendover News plans to cover this in a longer story then. If you are not a member of Wendover Cricket Club, you can register for the Zoom presentation, on Wednesday 14 October at 7:00pm, here: https://tinyurl.com/ RomanWendover. After registration you will be able to see the log-on details.

Dreaming of a Green Christmas Christine Wright writes: Wendover Free Church is planning a community event to encourage everyone to find ways to make Christmas less wasteful and less harmful to the environment. It’s not a matter of doing away with cherished traditions or of spoiling the celebrations, but of exploring ways in which we could all enjoy the festive period more sustainably. We would like local organisations, groups, societies and individuals to take part and get as many people as possible involved. We are holding the event on Saturday 14 November 2026 at Wendover Christian Centre and St Anne’s Hall.” Christine says there there are several ways to be involved. For instance, individuals or groups could make an A3 poster illustrating ideas for a green Christmas. Eco-focused groups could have a table at the event with

examples of items (Christmas decorations, presents, crafts) that people could make at home. Or people could bring items to sell which are hand-made, fairly-traded or use sustainable materials as Christmas presents or decorations, provided they give a donation to the supported charity. “You could offer to run workshops for adults and/or children so they could take home hand-made items for Christmas decorations or presents,” Christine adds. “This is an opportunity for organisations to engage with new people and publicise the work they do to protect the environment in a wasteful world.” For more information e-mail: minister@ wendoverfreechurch.org.uk, by 16 October.

Pub Trail goes from strength to strength Leigh Porter writes: If you wanted to see the village bustling with groups of all ages, friends and families, smiling faces meandering along the High Street, happily chatting with passers-by then you needed to take part in Wendover’s Pub Trail. All through the August Bank Holiday weekend there were events to keep the crowds entertained over their drinks and there was a lively buzz from The King & Queen all the way to The Pack Horse. Over 300 completed cards were handed into the draw. All the limited edition teeshirts sold out, with an order list for those still anxious to prove they had a drink in all seven Wendover pubs. The QR Code was scanned and the newly set up (thanks to Jasmine) Instagram page already has over 100 followers and growing daily. The popularity

Greg Smith MP (centre) with Leigh Porter (right) before drawing the winning entries

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Alternatively Wendover Pharmacy on the High Street, on 01296 622166 or www. wendoverpharmacy.co.uk, offers a walk-in service from Thursday 1 October onward. You can go any day from Monday to Saturday, preferably after 10am, but only up to 2pm on Wednesdays and Thursdays; and up to 1pm on Fridays. The Pharmacy is closed on Friday afternoons. Flu vaccines are free for over-65s or anyone in particular risk categories. For Covid it’s free for over-75s or risk categories, or anyone in a care home.

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of the Pub Trail continues to grow and the Easter and late August weekends are firmly fixed in the Wendover calendar. A big thanks again to all the publicans and to those who help to distribute the cards, and especially to Greg Smith MP for drawing the three lucky winners and adding his support to the event. We hope this will encourage other villages and towns to follow Wendover’s lead and bring some help to beleaguered pubs and village centres. Congratulations to Kenny, James and Keelan for winning a drink a month in each of the seven pubs for the next three months. As ever it’s all been down to the supporters, who gather together their friends, family, work colleagues and club members to get out to have some fun and in the process ensure our local pubs, cafes, shops and eateries can thrive. Many thanks again for your support and for helping to make Wendover smile! Save the date for the Easter Wendover Pub Trail (26–29 March 2027) and follow us on Instagram at #thewendoverpubtrail.

Autumn vaccinations on offer Autumn is with us and so is the NHS’s offers of vaccinations against flu and Covid. If you want these and are eligible, you can book them in Wendover at Westongrove Partnership, www.westongrove.com.

Join Wendover and District Rotary for their 7th Annual Duck Race in aid of Rotary supported charities. It will take place at Heron Path Stream, Wendover HP22 6NN on Sunday 11 October when the first race will start at 2pm. Spectators are welcome. Different duck sizes are available and cash prizes will be awarded. The ducks race whatever the weather as they don’t mind a bit of water!

Please get your duck number from Cheryl, Wendover Rotary: rotary.md3@gmail.com and look out for duck sales around the town.

CLAW continues to grow in a bid to tackle Climate Change Climate Action Wendover (CLAW) is a volunteer community group with an aim to increase local biodiversity, improve reuse and recycling and reduce the carbon footprint of Wendover and the surrounding villages. CLAW has, as its name implies, been taking action on multiple fronts over the year and the group’s efforts are bearing fruit. In partnership with Parish Councils and bodies such as the Chiltern Society they have

rewilded and maintained a strip of land on the London Road called the WildBelt. They have planted trees, cleared grass, laid down woodchip surfaces and helped improve the environment as well as designed and installed an information panel explaining the WildBelt. CLAW members have also conducted wildflower surveys and are in the process of developing a Food Map to plot all the local stakeholders involved in our food supply chain. A key action of the group is raising public awareness of important environmental challenges and to that end CLAW has organised the screening of films such as Wilding; Six Inches of Soil and The People’s Emergency Briefing. In addition, CLAW is involved in very practical actions related to developing domestic renewable energy projects, electric vehicle initiatives and food growing. All these activities are hard work but very rewarding. As the group continues to grow it is always on the lookout for volunteers keen to contribute what might be a “very particular set of skills” or just enthusiasm and a desire to improve the environment. Currently CLAW is looking to fill two volunteer roles. One role is an Events Organiser to co-ordinate activities such as films, talks, open evenings or public tree planting. CLAW wants to find someone who is passionate about raising awareness of the climate and nature crisis and who ideally will have a good knowledge of the local area and be familiar with publicity and promotion across a variety of social media. The other role is to promote and Manage the WildBelt rewilding project. CLAW is looking for a volunteer with some knowledge of managing a nature site and experience of coordinating a group of willing volunteers in tasks such as seeding, planting, cutting, scything and watering. CLAW is keen to encourage local schools to be involved, so experience of working with young people would be an asset. If you are interested in volunteering in any capacity with CLAW, contact details and more information about the WildBelt are on 

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the website ClimateActionWendover.org then go to Projects and Wendover WildBelt.

Library Talks The forthcoming library talks are: Climate Action Wendover (CLAW) is presenting a series of three ‘Climate Bites’ talks this autumn. The first one is on Friday 2 October, 11.30am–12.30pm. Grace Chew (left), a heritage expert working at the Ashridge Estate, will explain how the National Trust manages this 5,000-acre country escape in the Chiltern Hills. The next two will be held on Friday 13 November and Friday 4 December, both at 11.30 at the library. Tea and coffee will be available. Ask at the library counter to add your name to the attendee list, or contact mayuko. yamada@gmail.com at CLAW. Places are limited. ‘More than Dreams’ by Jean Corfield, will be held on Thursday 22 October, 2.30pm to 4.00pm. Jean Corfield (right) will talk about her extraordinary life, living in and travelling to more than one hundred countries with her family including her diplomat husband. She says “I look forward to sharing some of the experiences and adventures that I had, in between teaching, doing charity work, and refugee assessing, in addition to training for lay ministry in the Church of England and studying for a degree online from the Far East.” Ask at the library counter to add your name to the attendee list, or contact frances@ spokenwordltd.com

Wendover Youth Centre - 40th Anniversary Party, 5 September

(continued from front page)

Paul Hammett writes: Wendover Youth Centre was delighted to count our local MP, Greg Smith as one of the guests at the Centre’s party to celebrate its 40 years. Greg, along with many people who have contributed to the life of the Centre for many years, and a large number of families, were able to enjoy the many activities including cake decorating, circus skills, face painting, 3D printing, and a tombola. We would like to thank Beef Olive Butchers in Aylesbury for providing the BBQ and food Through donations made on the day, the Centre was able to raise over £200 to go towards funding its ongoing activities. Thank you to all who attended, helpers as well as all those that have enabled the Centre to get this far. Here’s to the next 40 years.

... ‘Birch Hamstead St. Mary’, which is now Northchurch, the original centre of the parish that stretched from Tring to Boxmoor (neither Berkhamsted Castle nor St. Peters Church yet existed) to accept the submission of many of the leading nobles. The safest and most direct route for a large army to travel from Wallingford to the Tring Gap in the wet conditions of the late Autumn was along the Icknield Way. This route would avoid the lowland clay that might bog down wagons and the army could hug the spring-line where permeable chalk meets clay, making a natural trackway with plenty of fresh water and food for the hungry soldiers to plunder. The Domesday Book records the intriguing fact that, although the some of the surrounding villages and parishes were given to members of William’s family and closest retainers, Wendover remained part of William’s royal demesne. This may have been because Wendover was already prosperous in Anglo Saxon times with the Domesday book recording woodland sufficient to support 2,000 pigs through pannage (feeding on beech nuts) whereas other villages such as Weston Turville or Aston Clinton could only support about 100 or 200 pigs. Duke William may also have had an interest in Wendover and other local settlements, including Aylesbury and Princes Risborough, as the Domesday Book records, they had belonged directly to Edward the Confessor, to whom William claimed to be the rightful successor. William would no doubt want to strengthen his position by being seen to hold the former King’s property in person. Unless further evidence turns up, possibly in the form of the missing sections of the Bayeux Tapestry we may never know if William the Conqueror and his army marched through Wendover or the surrounding villages, but it is an interesting thought that Wendover may just have been on the route to one of the most significant turning points in English history.

Become a school governor School governors play a crucial role in our children’s lives, often going unnoticed alongside the vital work of teachers. Volunteer governors support staff and keep schools running smoothly. Their diverse skills, experience and perspectives help shape a school’s strategic direction and ensure its continued success. Governors are usually appointed for a fixed term, creating a constant demand for new members across all schools in our area. The essential qualities are common sense and a strong commitment to young people’s development. While most schools hold regular governing board meetings, some members take on specialist roles or work on specific projects. Becoming a governor doesn’t require educational expertise; training is provided. You also get a huge sense of satisfaction! The John Hampden Primary School, on the Wharf Road Campus, Wendover currently has a couple of vacancies on its governing board. They’d love to hear from anyone interested in learning more about the role. For more information, please email Martyn Dolbear, Chair of Governors, at chair@ johnhampdenwendover.co.uk.

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Markets policy adopted after Sunday market row By Simon Eccles Extra markets on the Manor Waste are likely on a trial basis as Wendover Parish Council has adopted a new policy setting out how it will judge these in future. This followed a dispute with local traders last year over a proposal from commercial operator Coopers Markets. Coopers’ original proposal was agreed in principle by councillors in August 2025 without consulting Wendover businesses first. At a packed meeting the following month, one resident told councillors that redactions in WPC’s published documents hid the name of the company it was appointing; the council acknowledged the concern and resolved to consult local traders. No further public discussion followed for months until the issue was raised again in July 2026, and an updated policy was finally revealed at the September full WPC meeting. The latest policy, approved at the council’s full meeting on 1 September, does not yet authorise any specific market. It sets out criteria that operators must meet, covering

insurance of at least £10 million, trader selection, parking and traffic management, and a mandatory six-month trial reviewed by the Amenities Committee. Evening markets will not be held on Thursdays, to avoid clashing with the town’s existing weekly market. Councillors said that no single trader should have a veto over a new market, saying the policy must serve the whole town, and said that stalls can be approved where the council judges a proposal reasonable, not just where an affected business agrees. Objectors last year included James Grant, owner of the delicatessen No.2 Pound Street, who said he had previously put forward a similar proposal himself, only to be turned down or ignored by the council. He has organised the independent “Summer on the Manor” and “Christmas on the Manor markets” in recent years. This story was covered in Wendover News October 2025. Several members of the public in 2025 argued that any Sunday market should be run by the council itself, similar to the existing Local Produce Market, so that “the money stays in Wendover.” WPC officers said this was rejected as they don’t have the capacity to do this. Council-led consultation with traders this summer, carried out by Councillor Frances Tipper and Estates Photo: Simon Eccles and Events manager

Photo: Simon Eccles

Phoebe Sharps, found broadly positive views, though some warned that additional markets could hurt their trade, citing limited parking for out-of-town visitors. The WPC report flagged the risk of reputational damage to the high street if additional markets turn out badly. It also included practical concerns such as improper parking caused by them having to leave the bollards down on the Manor Waste from Wednesday to Monday on market weekends. The council will now consider applications to run additional markets under its new proposed terms. James Grant has already applied to run one, through a proposed Community Interest Company, Wendover Community Markets, with himself as market director of a monthly Sunday market; his preferred start date is November. He told Wendover News he hopes it will be “ideally a market owned by our community and able to freely support charities and build funds for other community interest activities.” It is implied that other applications are being invited for consideration too. Mr Grant’s application was due to be considered at the Amenities Committee meeting on 15 September as we went to press, with progress on the wider policy to be reviewed by full Council in March 2027. Wendover News will report on the outcome as it develops.

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Culture, Visual and Performing Arts Arts, Music and Creativity across Wendover Written and compiled by Jo Durden-Moore It’s a little quieter now everyone is back to school/work, post a hectic summer season, but there is still lots happening in and around the town and villages. Lindengate had a busy few weeks as they hosted a four-day Festival of Arts & Gardens over the August Bank Holiday. The event brought together more than 60 artists and makers, showcasing inspiring art in the beautiful surroundings of Lindengate’s gardens. Visitors could enjoy everything from paintings and sculpture to ceramics and contemporary crafts, alongside art demonstrations, masterclasses, live music, storytelling, refreshments and more. Despite some challenging weather, the festival maintained a wonderfully positive atmosphere, with the organisers particularly pleased by the opportunity to raise awareness of Lindengate and introduce more people to the charity and its work.

The event also provided a valuable platform for the participating artists and makers, with most selling either original work or merchandise over the weekend. It brought together art, nature, creativity and community in a wonderfully atmospheric setting, with visitors able to explore the therapeutic gardens while discovering an impressive range of creative work.

Wendover News October 2026

Wendover Singers were among those taking part, performing twice on the Sunday afternoon, while children’s performing troupe Dramarama and wellknown children’s author Rachael Mortimer were also part of the packed programme of events over the four days. With families, art lovers and garden enthusiasts all coming together, the festival offered something for everyone – while also supporting the important work of Lindengate. Lindengate also hosted its Food & Nature Fun Day on Saturday 5 September as part of its new ‘Seeds of Change’ programme. This community event celebrated growing, cooking and healthy eating. Visitors enjoyed cooking demonstrations, kitchen garden demonstrations, food tastings, gardening advice, firepit cooking, seed-sowing activities and practical tips for growing vegetables at home. There were also games, cakes and crafts, with the focus on inspiring healthier lifestyles and a greater connection with food production and nature. Wendover Music hosted the first in a series of special concerts at St Mary’s Church. Thanks to a generous legacy, the organisation has launched a new programme of organ recitals in the beautiful 14th-century church. The first of these featured Peter Holder (right), organist at Christ Church, Oxford, who played the organ at the service of thanksgiving for Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, on 29 March 2022 and then at the state funeral of Queen Elizabeth on 29 September in Westminster Abbey. He presented a varied programme for Wendover Music on Sunday 13 September including the music of wellknown composers such as Bach and William Byrd building

up to more modern pieces such as Iain Farrington’s Jazz, “Raggle, Taggle Tunes”. This concert was a fitting start to the series which will continue next year so look out for more information from Wendover Music giving us all an opportunity to hear the St Mary’s organ. At the time of going to press, the folks at Real Magic were deep in preparation for their Real Magic Weekend Festival No. 5 from 25–27 September. Now firmly established as one of Wendover’s most eclectic weekends, the mini-festival promises a packed mix of music, books, talks, walks and plenty of opportunities to eat, drink and dance. Among the highlights will be live music from Nadeem Din-Gabisi and Naima Bock, alongside talks from Steve Mason, frontman of The Beta Band, Booker Prize-nominated Luke Kennard, author Joanna Miller and Guardian writer John Harris. There is also a rather unusual literary event at Wendover Library, with local writer Matt Eaton discussing Madam V, his fascinating story of Virginia Vernon and ENSA during the Second World War. Sunday brings a special Real Magic walk, followed by more talks, books and live music.

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And, of course, no Real Magic Weekend would be complete without the Real Magic Disco, which this year returns to The King & Queen on Saturday evening, with special guest DJs Luke Solomon and Sean Rowley taking over the decks. It will also be Real Magic’s fourth birthday party, making this fifth mini-festival another special celebration of the wonderful mix of books, music, ideas and community that has become synonymous with the shop. Carl promises it will be epic! Tickets were still on sale at www.realmagicbooks.com. The Bel & Dragon were preparing for their Oktoberfest – 25–26 September, which promises an authentic Bavarian cultural experience with live music, dancing, food and plenty of beer. An Oktoberfest-themed quiz night on the Friday will feature delicious German cuisine, including pretzels, sausages and schnitzels. Costumes and lederhosen are encouraged, with a chance to win exciting prizes! General admission is free, but pre-booking for the quiz is essential, please see www. belandthedragon.co.uk Coming up in October & November… Wendover Music hosts Lumas Winds on Sunday 4 October at 4pm, an award-winning young wind quintet at the forefront of a new generation of wind ensembles. It has been quite a year for this quintet (pictured top right). In April they achieved international recognition by winning First Prize at the 2026 Lyon International Chamber Music Competition, along with prizes for the best interpretation of the competition’s commissioned work, Alchimie by Thibault Perrine, and the best interpretation of a work composed after 1960, for their performance of Lalo Schifrin’s La Nouvelle Orleans. They were also awarded prizes from the Académie Musicale de Villacroze and La Belle Saison, which will see them take up a residency in the south of France. The quintet, whose members’ friendships began at the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, has also performed at Wigmore Hall and King’s Place and is Ensemble in Association at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama. Their Wendover programme promises a wonderfully varied afternoon, including music by Bach, Holst, Ligeti, Françaix, Amy Beach and Malcolm Arnold, finishing with Rimsky-Korsakov’s Flight of the Bumblebee. This should be a wonderful opportunity for Wendover audiences to hear one of the UK’s most exciting young chamber ensembles while they are very much at the beginning of what promises to be an impressive career. For tickets and further information, visit www.wendover-music.org. wendovernews.org

Wendover Art Club will host a demonstration by Justine Thorpe on 22 October. Justine is a professional abstract and semi-abstract artist whose work is energetic, expressive and spontaneous, inspired by her curiosity about nature. Visitors are always welcome. See www. wendoverartclub.co.uk.

impact performing can have on wellbeing. Tickets are available at www.centenarytheatre.com.

For jazz lovers, there will be two events in October. First, ‘Lend Us A Tenor’, a 7-piece group, will be performing at St Mary’s in Drayton Beauchamp on 24 October. They will be playing mostly ‘jazz standards’ (swing, Latin, etc) with a few other tunes thrown in. The band formed when a group were put together during a jazz course at The Stables in Milton Keynes. They enjoyed playing together and so they carried on! Tickets are £10 on the door or at bit.ly/3S87mpg and there will be a licensed bar. All proceeds will go to the upkeep of the church. On 29 October at St Mary’s, Aylesbury, Jazz Upfront will present the Judah Daniels Trio. Birmingham-born multi-instrumentalist Judah Daniels is forging an exciting path in contemporary jazz, drawing on gospel, RnB, and classical. Judah’s groove-based piano style—reminiscent of Ahmad Jamal and Oscar Peterson—sits at the heart of his sound. Tickets from @ Aylesbury Music Shop or from bit.ly/4yDgYYL

And looking ahead to Christmas… For those wanting to plan ahead, at the time of going to press it was only 100 days to Christmas! So, here are some dates for your diary:

The Sing Out Project and Berkhamsted Theatre Company will, on 31 October and 1 November, bring a brand-new concert to local audiences, promising an extraordinary celebration of the power of song and the performing arts. Berkhamsted’s Centenary Theatre will play host to an uplifting musical concert marking 100 years of unforgettable performances by the local community. The concert will be hosted by acclaimed West End performer and director David Rhys, alongside West End Soprano and Choir Director Jill Neenan. The event will celebrate the transformative power of singing together and the positive

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Wendover Choral Quiz will be held in St Anne’s Hall on Friday 20 November. All are welcome to support this organisation. For details, see www.wendoverchoral.co.uk.

Wendover Choral’s Christmas Concert on Saturday 5 December will include Camille Saint-Saëns’ Christmas Oratorio and Messe de Minuit by Marc-Antoine Charpentier. Tickets will be on sale soon. Wendover Woods Christmas Market returns on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 December, bringing together local makers, bakers and creatives against the beautiful woodland backdrop. Expect handmade gifts, original artwork, ceramics, festive food and plenty of inspiration for those still looking for that special Christmas present. Wendover Singers’ Christmas Concerts will be on Saturday 12 December, and they will be doing two performances this year, one at 3pm and one at 6pm. There will be the usual much-loved songs and carols, including The Twelve Days of Christmas, with mince pies and mulled wine served at the end of each concert. Tickets will be on sale soon. Also on Saturday 12 December, the Lucy Clark Scottish Christmas Dance will take place at Wendover Memorial Hall from 7–11pm, with music from Ian Robertson and his band. There will be a welcome glass of fizz and buffet supper, with all dances recapped, making it an opportunity for both experienced dancers and those wanting to give Scottish dancing a go. Tickets are £25.

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Wendover News October 2026

A Splash of Creativity is Coming to Wendover By Jo Durden-Moore There is something rather lovely about walking into a room and finding it filled with art. Paintings that make you stop and look twice, sculptures that catch your eye from across the room and perhaps, if you are lucky, a piece that you immediately fall in love with. Wendover will have plenty of all of those things to enjoy this autumn when the Buckinghamshire Art Society brings its annual Autumn Exhibition to the Memorial Hall on Saturday 31 October and Sunday 1 November. Open from 10am to 5pm on both days, and with free admission, the exhibition will bring together the work of artists from across Buckinghamshire, creating a colourful celebration of creativity right in the heart of the town. And there should be something to suit just about every taste. The Society, founded in 1920, has around 100 members, many of whom are professional or semi-professional artists, working in a huge variety of styles and media. Visitors can expect everything from paintings and drawings to sculpture, printmaking and contemporary mixed-media pieces. But for me, one of the nicest things about exhibitions like this is that you get to meet the people behind the artwork. You can ask an artist what inspired a particular painting, find out how a piece was created, or simply have a chat about their passion for art. It makes the experience feel much more personal than simply wandering around a gallery. There is also a wonderful opportunity to see the artistic talent of the next generation, with the Society’s Young Artist Awards forming an important part of the weekend. The competition is open to Buckinghamshire young people aged 16 to 20, with prizes of £200, £100 and £50. The winning and highly commended entries will

Wendover News October 2026

then be displayed as part of the exhibition. It is particularly encouraging to see an established art society giving young artists the opportunity to have their work seen and celebrated – and who knows, perhaps some of those exhibiting this year will become the professional artists whose work we will be admiring for many years to come. I caught up with Richard Ingleton, a longtime Wendover resident and professional artist, who has been chosen to exhibit with the Society this autumn. Richard says “I’m so glad that the Bucks Art Society is coming to Wendover – it is a wonderful opportunity to bring together artists from across the county - they obviously know we’re a community with excellent taste!” Richard is certainly well placed to appreciate the importance of an exhibition such as this. He trained in the classical tradition at the Edinburgh Atelier of Fine Art, studying under master painters, and after experimenting with a variety of techniques and styles. His work has a strong figurative and post-impressionistic influence, alongside his landscape and still-life paintings and can be found on Instagram at @rmingleton, where he shares his work and glimpses into his artistic practice. His Wendover studio, his work and his connection to the local area mean that visitors to the exhibition will not only be able to see the finished paintings but meet an artist who has made Wendover part of his creative life.

‘Lady in a Bonnet’ by Richard Ingleton

Richard paints exclusively in oils, working across both figurative and landscape subjects, and he is looking forward to being at the exhibition throughout the weekend to talk with visitors about his process, his inspiration and what the pieces mean to him. Other elected members of BAS, who will be joining Richard and are local to Wendover and villages are Kate Wynne-Eyton, Wolfango Chiappella, Di Oldfield, Bill Senior and Graham Jefford. The weekend will get underway on Friday 30 October with a special Preview Evening, running from 6.30pm to 9pm. The official opening and presentation of the Young Artist Awards will take place at 7pm, giving guests the chance to enjoy a first look at the exhibition and meet some of the artists. For Wendover, it is a welcome return and another great example of the town providing a home for creativity, culture and community events. It is also a chance for local people to see the work of artists from across the county, while supporting the wealth of artistic talent we have right here on our doorstep. After all, you never quite know what you might find when you go looking for a little bit of art – and there is certainly plenty to look forward to at Wendover Memorial Hall this autumn.

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Stoke Mandeville’s village war memorial takes shape By Jo Durden-Moore It’s not every day that you walk past a village green and see the construction of an obelisk war memorial commemorating all those affected by conflict. In fact, research indicates that Buckinghamshire has seen relatively few new war memorials installed in the decades since the Second World War. Among the new memorials identified are Seer Green in 2012, Watermead in 2014, the Horse Trust near Princes Risborough in 2018 and Charndon in 2020. As reported in last month’s Wendover News, the journey to seeing Stoke Mandeville village’s memorial being installed was far from easy. It is therefore a heartening sight to see this community-led project finally coming to fruition. Ward Councillor and Cabinet Member for Planning at Bucks Council, Peter Strachan, who was involved from the very beginning, was thrilled to see the project finally happening. He spoke with Wendover News and told us: “This is the culmination of a number of years of effort by a number of people, and I am so very pleased to see that it’s finally happened. Even tiny parish councils of 200–300 people all have a war memorial; Stoke Mandeville has been missing an outdoor one and I am thrilled that this has now been rectified.” He is looking forward to it being formally opened on Remembrance Sunday, along with residents and supporters who all made it happen despite the challenges along the way. Peter added: “Having a space outside with a visible memorial, where people can gather, means that on Remembrance Sunday, and

on any other day throughout the year, those affected by conflict can never be forgotten and for generations to come.” The memorial was chosen by residents who had supported the project, based on designs seen in other villages and towns in Buckinghamshire. Comprising a smooth obelisk on a plinth, it will age beautifully over time. It will have a simple, small plaque at the base reading: ‘In commemoration to those affected by conflict’. The choice of an obelisk places Stoke Mandeville’s memorial within a long tradition of war memorial design. It is an ancient form, originating in Egypt, where its tall, tapering shape was associated with the sun and with reaching towards the heavens. Over centuries it became a symbol of strength, permanence and aspiration, making it a natural choice for monuments intended to endure for generations. Following the First World War, thousands of communities created memorials to the men and women they had lost, many choosing simple, enduring classical forms. Perhaps the most famous example is the Cenotaph in Whitehall, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens in 1919. Originally intended as a temporary structure, its simple and universal design proved so powerful that a permanent Portland stone version was erected the following year. The Stoke Mandeville obelisk similarly conveys permanence and dignity, while allowing a memorial to stand for a whole community rather than a single individual. This traditional form is combined with four fallen soldiers representing land, sea, air and medical services, bringing a very human dimension to the memorial and creating a lasting reminder of the human cost of conflict. An information board listing all those involved in making the project a reality will be installed before the dedication service on Remembrance Sunday. After five years of determination, fundraising, legal setbacks and community spirit, Stoke Mandeville villagers and visitors will be able to gather on

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the green, not simply to read a list of names, but to stand together as a community and remember the human cost of conflict . The photos below show the construction of the war memorial up to the time Wendover News went to press.

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Wendover News October 2026

Inside the office: a morning with Greg Smith MP By Simon Eccles I sat down with Greg Smith, MP for Mid Buckinghamshire, at his constituency office above Brown & Merry Estate Agents on the High Street. He moved there just over a year ago, after a lengthy delay to get communications set up, and has since hosted constituency surgeries and ad hoc meetings for local people, as well as meetings with the likes of HS2’s chief executive Mark Wild. As part of Wendover News’ occasional series on how local democracy works, I wanted to ask about the general role of a constituency MP – not just representing local people in Parliament, but listening to their concerns and helping get things done. Where does an MP fit alongside the elected Bucks Council and Wendover Parish Council? Smith represents the Conservative Party, but we kept politics out of the discussion. Two years ago, as the first MP for the brand new constituency of Mid Buckinghamshire, he had to decide where to base his constituency office – a base for activities, and where residents could meet him at regular “surgeries.” “Why Wendover? Well, why not Wendover?” he says. “It’s a big constituency of 336 square miles, but you need a base. You need somewhere for your staff to work from, and for me to host meetings when I’m not in Westminster, and you need desk time. “I took the view that I wanted a high street presence, not necessarily a shop front, but somewhere people know they can get to, with a bit of parking, and facilities around us – places to go for lunch, places to have a drink after work. Wendover was just the perfect fit.” The constituency office is not a Conservative Party office, he stresses. “Nothing party political happens here – we’ve got our party offices in Winslow. They are entirely separate. This is purely a place where I and my team work within the orbit of what we do with me as the Member of Parliament.” Smith’s connection to Wendover goes back further than his time as MP. He and his wife Annalise moved there in 2017, settling on Grenville Avenue, drawn by a wish to

raise their children in the countryside. “We were very, very happy here,” he said. But the family outgrew the house, and during the pandemic, with a third child on the way, they moved to a larger property 20 minutes away. Still, Wendover remained the natural home for his constituency work. He remains genuinely fond of the town. “It has a vibrancy to it that is almost unique. Wendover has this beautiful mix of a traditional high street with the stuff you need, as well as those boutique shops and special shops – I love the antiques centre here. There’s a great family feel to it, a real community spirit. Whenever you go to an event in Wendover, you really feel the communities together. And it looks beautiful – I defy anyone not to stand up at the top of the High Street, up by Sweeney’s or Number 2, and look right down on the clock tower with the woods in the background, and not say that is a beautiful high street.”

Not just an address

Photo: Simon Eccles

It took a while to find a suitable office, and more time to adapt it. The long space above Brown & Merry, officially Woollerton House, is spacious – recently plastered and painted, though the ancient wooden beams are still visible. There’s an office for constituency workers, and a boardroom where Smith convened a meeting on HS2 with Mark Wild. Video-conferencing equipment lets people dial in, and softer, sofa-furnished corners are kept for more sensitive conversations. “A surgery session tends to be 15, 20 minutes per person,” Smith explains. “If someone’s got a bigger thing to bring to me, we’ve got this space with a couple of sofas where it is a more calming, comfortable environment.” Being an old building, there’s no lift, so people with access problems might struggle with the stairs. “We have an arrangement with the estate agents that we can use an accessible room downstairs, so no one is left behind on that front,” Smith says. Smith’s own office has a desk, a sofa with union jack cushions, and a coffee table. When we visited he was storing banners behind the sofa protesting the farmers’ inheritance tax. He designed them himself – his former career was in marketing. The walls behind them desk carry mementoes of his political career, including photos of a much younger Smith meeting Margaret Thatcher. On another wall is a dartboard bearing his name, a souvenir of the Paddy Power Westminster darts championship to benefit Prostate Cancer UK. “I was paired up with

Luke Littler and somehow we won. Part of the prize was that dartboard. It doesn’t get used a lot!” Formal surgeries run roughly monthly, supplemented by ad hoc meetings, sometimes in the boardroom, sometimes more privately in another room or his office. “My surgeries rotate around the constituency, where we’ll take different village halls. It just wouldn’t be fair in such a huge geography to tell people they always have to come to Wendover. When Wendover is on the rotation, then yes, I’ll do it here.” When Parliament is sitting, Smith is normally in the constituency for Fridays and weekends, but in recesses he’s around a lot more. “I normally do something big over the summer recess in the way of a constituency tour,” he says. “For a couple of years I did it in a classic Land Rover running synthetic fuel.” So, what are these surgeries? “Formal surgeries are where people bring very particular problems to you,” he says. “Struggling to get timely NHS treatment, a problem with a housing association, or HMRC not listening. All sorts of personal matters an MP has no power to directly change, but we have this advocacy power to talk to HMRC or the NHS Trust or the ICB. They’re very structured, very formal – you’ve got to have an appointment.” Alongside these, Smith runs “Pint of View” sessions in local pubs – a more informal

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Wendover News October 2026

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alternative, advertised locally, where he simply turns up for a couple of hours. “You want to chat to me? Chat to me. Tell me what’s on your mind, in a way that is clearly a more public environment. Politicians are only as good as what our constituents actually tell us. If people don’t tell me, then I can’t properly vocalise that in the House of Commons.” Between surgeries, pub sessions and receiving around 300 emails a day, the casework never really stops, he says.

the appropriate delivery and funding.” Road closures and diversions, he said, affect the largest number of people at once, but longer-running battles occupy plenty of his time, particularly around HS2 – helping farmers secure compensation for land taken years ago, disputes over hedgerows removed without consent, mitigation commitments around St Mary’s Church, and the campaign for land for a new Wendover Football Club pitch once HS2 works are complete. He’s involved with the WHS2 Action Group in Wendover and the equivalent group covering What can an MP do for you? Calvert. Smith was candid about the limits of his role. What about the overlap with matters that “The only power I have as an MP is the way are more responsibility of Bucks Council, for I cast my vote in Parliament,” he said, but he instance? “A lot of people bring council-restressed the less formal power of advocacy: lated matters to me, so I’m always getting writing directly to ministers, civil servants, on the back of the council, be it on potholes health boards or police chiefs, and, if or other council services that people have necessary, raising a failure to deliver a service brought to my attention as constituents. I on the floor of the House of Commons. He will never flatly turn around to a constituent cited a case of a Buckinghamshire cul-de-sac and say, that’s not me guv! I will get my left out of a fibre broadband rollout, resolved elbows out and say to the council, why aren’t after he intervened. you doing this? The bulk of his casework spans welfare and “I have no magic wand, no direct power benefits, NHS waiting times, immigration to compel, so it is always through advocacy. and visa problems, and children needing My mantra is never give up, and we’ll keep Education, Health & Care Plans. “My pushing. Sometimes when an MP gets surgeries always have at least one, if not involved with a private company, people multiple, families who aren’t getting what suddenly sit up and put it right. Nobody they need for a child, and we do a lot of work wants to think an MP is about to wade in. supporting them to get the assessments and “MPs do have that ultimate sanction, that I

can stand up in the House of Commons and really embarrass someone for not delivering a service they promised. I’m not in it to embarrass people, but I’ve got that sanction should it be needed. “You’ve got to see it from the constituent’s perspective. If something has riled someone or got them so upset that they have sought to contact their member of parliament, well, it’s then incumbent on me to help that person resolve those issues. It’s what I’m here for.” How can people get in touch, maybe to visit a surgery? “All the contact details are on my website: www.gregsmith.co.uk. There are contact posters on notice boards, certainly around Wendover. Social media carries the contact details, or at least a link to where people can find them.” If you don’t do online, then the phone number is 020 7219 4287. Wendover News has a strict editorial policy that ensures impartial reporting of subjects of a political nature. To ensure balance, we have approached Laura Kyrke-Smith MP (Labour) representing Weston Turville, Aston Clinton and parts of Stoke Mandeville, to engage with us in a similar way for a later issue. We are a media organisation regulated by Impress: www.impressorg.com.

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Wendover News October 2026

HS2 update

Green Tunnel making progress EKFB have now finished the installation of the concrete Green Tunnel shell under both Ellesborough Road bridges, and the special red transporter crane has been dismantled. The gap between the two tunnel sections should be filled by the end of October. [photo far right]. Work has also started on the installation of the acoustic portal hood at the north end of the tunnel. From the bridge you can also now see a section of the ‘Grove Farm Culvert’ being installed in a cutting alongside the Green Tunnel. This mile-long drain runs alongside the Green Tunnel and will carry run-off water from the Small Dean area to new ponds near Wellwick Farm. The section between Small Dean and Ellesborough Road is a 2.4 metre diameter pipe with tunnelling since April last year. The section north of Ellesborough Road is a ‘cut and cover box culvert’ formed using 3m wide and 2m high precast concrete shells.

Self-propelled crane moving tunnel segment into place

Air quality and dust We met EKFB to raise the issue of dust from the works following complaints from local residents. HS2’s objective is to constrain dust clouds to within the works area, and claim not to have yet exceeded the target level at their monitoring sites. The number and placement of the sites is determined by monthly review with Bucks Council Environmental Health, taking note of what works are being undertaken. We watch this space.

Noise mitigation

Precision placement of Green Tunnel segments

Wendover News October 2026

We continue to press HS2 on future train noise and wrote to HS2 to explain why we believe that they still do not meet the Undertakings and Assurances in the Act, following their rejection of an additional noise barrier. In the meantime we are anticipating a workshop to review the design of the

North Portal to see if we can get some further mitigation included.

‘Wendover Link’ progress We’ve been examining the detail of EKFB’s proposed footpath and road reinstatement We are making recommendations to Bucks Council listing twenty changes we believe they need to support Bacombe Lane and Ellesborough Road residents, Rights of Way users and the proposed Buckinghamshire Greenway cycle route. As Wendover News goes to press, we’re due to meet the Council, HS2 and EKFB to discuss these, before the formal plans are submitted for approval later this year. In the meantime Bucks Council have been put on notice by the residents that the current Bacombe Lane reinstatement is not legally compliant with the HS2 Act planning rules. Hopefully this is a wake up call for Bucks Council to pay more attention to the detail.

Walking in the Chilterns EKFB have launched a new ‘Public Rights of Way Viewer’ online map system that gives details of all the paths that are closed and their likely re-opening dates. It is usable on a both a smartphone or laptop. The website

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address is prow.ekfb.com and we’ve put a users’ guide on our website whs2.org.

HS2 Reset and Wendover Now that HS2 have agreed new contract terms with EKFB, we understand that the project plan for the civil engineering in Wendover has been agreed. We’re expecting the details should be available when the HS2 Mobile Visitor Centre comes to the Wendover Market on Saturday October 17th, 10:00-14:00.

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.

Information provided by EKFB, the prime contractor for HS2 in the Wendover and Stoke Mandeville area.

Wendover Green Tunnel We’ve just completed the most difficult part of the green tunnel construction.

Gap in the Green Tunnel

Some of the pre-cast segments had to be installed directly beneath Ellesborough Road bridge, needing a specialised piece of equipment called a Self-propelled Modular Transporter (SPMT). The SPMT was used to lift the segments upwards and move them into place instead of using a crane. This all had to be carefully planned around the height of the temporary bridge and the cutting below it. Using the SPMT, the team safely installed

8-metre-high tunnel segments and their arch caps, without needing to close the road. The vehicle could lift two segments at a time, helping improve productivity and allowing the team to exceed daily installation targets and complete the work ahead of schedule. You can watch the video of the SPMT in action as it installed the last segments under Ellesborough Road by scanning the QR code on the right or by visiting https:// bit.ly/3SOnGvD.

Site visits

Box culvert at Ellesborough Road

Would you like to come and see our work in Wendover up close? We offer regular opportunities for residents and community groups to join our monthly site tours. During these visits, you will receive an update on the current stage of construction and can speak directly with our delivery team, ask questions, and learn more about the work taking place in your area. To book a slot on a site tour, please get in touch with the EKFB Community Engagement team at hs2enquiries@hs2.org.uk.

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Wendover News October 2026

Mining Bees at the new Tring Road Cricket Ground By Jonathan Seabrook

At the end of August, a large number of little soil pyramids were noticed on the northfacing banks at the new Wendover cricket and training grounds, accompanied by many bees flying around low to the ground. The banks were still bare of grass but the rains that week kick-started germination and by the end of the week, all areas of the site had taken on a verdant hue, some areas being greener than others. A native bee expert was invited over to view the bees and he confirmed they are solitary mining bees but he didn’t know which, because there are some 100 species in the UK! He did however say the ‘pyramids’ were the top of each bee’s nest, the female digs a hole up to 300mm (12”) deep, excavates 2 pockets at the bottom, lines them with mucus and pollen, etc. to form nests and lays 12 eggs. The female then flies away to die, whilst the eggs will hatch and the following summer and the cycle will begin again. Linda Wells from Berks Bucks and Oxon was also contacted and after confirming

that some of the photos were excellent for identifying the bees, confirmed the cricket club has a nesting aggregation of Colletes hederae (Ivy Bees). Large aggregations are quite common in soft, crumbling banks or cliffs that are south facing. You may see quite big clusters of these bees. Males patrol nest sites and mob emerging females, creating frenzied mating balls. While females can very occasionally sting, they really have to be roughly manhandled for this to happen. The males are unable to sting. So having this colony at the cricket ground should be no problem to sports people, children or pets. Ivy bees were recorded as new to Britain in 2001 and are widely found on mainland Europe. Since then, the species has spread across southern England and is now found as far north as Scotland, probably extending their range because of climate change. Ivy bees are the last of the bee species to emerge each year, and peak activity matches

the flowering period of its key pollen forage plant, Ivy (Hedera helix). Ivy bees are sometimes still seen on the wing in November, as such they are not thought to compete with native bees. Linda said “Ivy bees are a success story when many of our bumblebees and other solitary bees are suffering alarming declines. I hope the cricket club can be guardians of this wonderful colony of bees and ensure their survival and for the bees to be successful year on year, it will be necessary to keep the vegetation of the banks short”. It’s a good news story for Wendover and the cricket cub, the arrival of the ivy bees is obviously an auspicious sign for the new cricket ground!

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Wendover News October 2026

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Club Corner Scottish country dancing equals health benefits and happiness! Yvonne Rudge writes: The physical and mental health benefits of listening and moving to all genres of music are widely recognised. The physical benefits are clear: it improves muscle tone and heart health, it contributes to weight management and improves posture, balance, and flexibility. Did you know that dancing is advocated by The Royal Osteoporosis Society for its positive contribution to supporting bone density and balance? It identifies that dance routines involving hops, jumps and moving the body in different directions at a variety of speeds are good for you. There can be no better summary of the movements involved in Scottish country dancing! Dancing is also good for our mental health. It’s well-known that moving to music boosts our mood and is directly connected to our sense of wellbeing. In one study, researchers from the University of Oxford found that dancing in rhythm with others can significantly raise the participants’ feelings of social bonding. To “dance Scottish” it’s necessary to memorise the sequence of intricate formations and this is something that continually exercises and enhances our muscle memory. While focusing on formations and the timing required to complete dances successfully, the stress and anxieties of the day are set aside for a while.

So, what is this centuries-old pastime of Scottish country dancing? Well, it doesn’t involve swords and kilts aren’t compulsory. Dancers work together in groups to complete a sequence of formations. It takes time to learn the basics but, once mastered, the opportunities to dance are limitless because it’s done all over the world. When you add the secret ingredient of irresistibly cheerful music you have a triple treat: good for your body, brain and social calendar. There’s a thriving Scottish dance community based locally at the Lucy Clark SCD Club in Wendover. We’re a welcoming and friendly group with excellent teachers. All ages are welcome, partners are optional and everyone leaves with a smile. The statistics are clear but, more important, the simple fact is that Scottish Country dancing makes us happy. Why not give it a try? Further information from: www.lucyclarkscottish.org or lucyclarkscottish@gmail.com.

Wendover Bowls Club Don Knight writes: August was a busy month, with two games as standout events, even though they had no bearing on leagues or competitions. Following on from the positive comments about our Gala Day our charity fundraisers decided on a day raising money for Prostate Cancer research and to invite other clubs to send teams for a day’s fun. Three clubs responded and numbers were made up from Chilterns, so over 30 bowlers took part. Rules were modified to fit with the light-hearted approach to the day and over £1200 was raised. The visiting team from Bletchley St Martins came out winners. They decided to donate their prizes to a charity raffle at their club, so everyone was a winner. The day was rounded off with excellent meal provided by Ashley Catering and then, for those with any energy left, dancing to sounds of the 60s and 70s with music from three members of our club

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calling themselves The Bowling Stones! The other highlight was our return game with the Chelsea Pensioners at the Chelsea Hospital in London. We were shown round by a lovely Red Coat Pensioner, who told us a lot about the history of the institution and the rules and life there. It was a privilege to see inside the beautiful building and to eat our meal in their dining room. The ‘green’ at Chelsea was more of a desert, as they had not watered during the drought. They are a joyous bunch. The oldest player was 94. The result was irrelevant, but we did win. After a pause for a little rehydration at the Pensioners Club, we boarded our coach and were “clapped off” on our way by their bowls team. Back down to earth, club life continues and all the finals have been played and the silverware presented. There are a few club games to tie up and then we are off on another indoor season. I wonder what sort of a winter we will have? I’ll tell you next April.

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Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust (BBOWT) Richard Birch writes: Our autumn talks programme at Great Missenden Memorial Centre continues on Tuesday 20 October with an update by Nick Marriner of Chilterns National Landscape. He’ll talk about efforts to recover the natural diversity of farmland through the formation of “Farmer Clusters,” with farmers and volunteers working together to bring back birds, such as the yellowhammer, and the plant life that sustains farmland species. Admission is £6 including refreshments and parking is free by the hall. Doors open at 7pm and the talk starts at 7.30pm. At College Lake there is a major programme of activities for all ages. You can book and get information at bbowt.org.uk/ events. The reserve and visitor centre are open every day except Monday. Printed in the UK by The Magazine Printing Company using only paper from FSC/PEFC suppliers www.magprint.co.uk

The views expressed by contributors are their own and not necessarily the views of the editor. If you have a complaint or concern about content in Wendover News, please visit www.wendovernews.org/complaints. Postal address only – no visitors: 11 Manor Road, Wendover, HP22 6HL When you have finished reading this edition of Wendover News, please pass it on to a friend or recycle it responsibly.

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Wendover News October 2026

Wendover Parish Council View from the Clock Tower Only just back to school and half-term can’t come soon enough! Parish meetings The parish council meets and makes its decisions in public and is committed to community engagement. We warmly invite members of the public to attend meetings and contribute within the public participation section. However, these are formal meetings held in public and not public forums, so we may not get back to you immediately at the meeting, but we do listen. If you do come to a meeting and want to speak then the Chair will ask at the start of the meeting who wishes to speak, please note we will normally time your contribution to three minutes to maximise the number of people that can be heard. The best way to engage is to talk to somebody in the office informally and they can usually set up meetings with councillors if any follow-up is needed. Market forces The parish council has been looking at how we can support our high street and give residents new and interesting attractions and on 1 September it agreed a policy by which people can bid to run a market on the Manor Waste. We have had interest and it is hoped there will be a new monthly market there coming soon (see p13). But it is also a good point to remind anyone in a society, club or community group that they too can hire the

manor waste or join us at the local produce market to raise funds or promote their activities. Please email estates@wendover-pc. gov.uk for more information.

a constructive response. Details of our response can be found on www.wendover-pc.gov.uk/post/ buckinghamshire-local-plan-2045consultation-our-response, or www.bit.ly/4cG4d7f.

Going to Ground We want to thank local independent hospitality spots for being part of the Recycled Coffee Grounds Scheme. This saw residents able to take away bags of nitrogen-packed goodness for their gardens in the form of the waste coffee grounds. The parish council set this up in April this year. Six businesses were involved and gave out over 500 pouches. Unfortunately we are now out of the pouches, so we are suspending this scheme until the next financial year, we are in talks about budgets but hope to bring it back.

Eventful We have a number of events in the run up to Christmas which we look forward to welcoming you to. All are free, and we only include companies, market stalls and groups that are local or directly connected to Wendover: ● Find the pumpkin at the 17 October Local

Produce Market for a free prize. ● Halloween Event on the Manor Waste

A huge thank you goes to Wendy and the team at Bread and Brew who brought this idea to the attention of the Council, and who ran their own scheme ahead of this. You can still fill up your own tubs of grounds from Bread and Brew on Back Street, from a container at the door.

31 October, 12 noon – 4pm. With support for the much-loved trail by J Brown Funeral Services, with some fun new additions this year. ● Remembrance Parade and Service Sunday 8 November. ● Find Santa at the November Local Produce Market (21 November) for a free prize. ● HS2 (EKFB) Mobile Visitor Centre will also be at the November Local Produce Market for questions about the latest activities. ● Christmas Celebration Event (Xmas lights switch on) – Saturday 28 November. ● Carols Around the Tree – 11 December. ● Christmas Local Market – 19 December. Festive tunes from Ellesborough Silver Band.

Local plan for Bucks – our response There has been much already said in Wendover News about the Local Plan for Bucks and we have submitted our response. It has been a difficult time to collate all the information, and we appreciate that many residents found the public meeting challenging. We also had an online survey and worked alongside a consultant to provide

Wendover Parish Council l The Clock Tower, High Street, Wendover HP22 6DU l Tel 01296 623056 Wendover Local Produce Market Sat 15 October, 10am–2pm Manor Waste Contact estates@wendover-pc.gov.uk

clerk@wendover-pc-gov.uk www.facebook.com/wendoverparish 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

Next Parish Council meeting: Tuesday 6 October, 7.40pm Main meeting room, Wendover Library Information about upcoming meetings: www.wendover-pc.gov.uk

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 28

Wendover News October 2026

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