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FROM THE EDITOR
I make no apology for, once again, running a special item on the possible closure of St George’s School. This is such a crucial issue and it affects all the Parishes not just Langton. It is important that local people have their say where it concerns a change as big as this and I urge everyone to write to, or email, one or all of those listed inside... no matter where your loyalty lies.
READ RECEIPTS
To all those people who get frustrated because I don’t send out read receipts on opening your emails, I am heartily sorry. Unfortunately, I have a problem within Windows that prevents me doing this automatically and it would need some major work to remedy, apparently.
I am also sorry to say that the on-
Angela Bell
PS Thanks to Owen Bryant for this month’s front cover and centre spread design
LETTER FROM THE RECTORY
October 2009
Dear Friends
The game plan was that I would use Rose’s early morning walking time as my quiet time... the time I spend each day peacefully in prayer and reflection before the chaos begins.
I had visions of wandering lonely as the cloud in Wordsworth’s well known poem... returning serenely in a composed and positive frame of mind. But Rose has other ideas. For her, life is full on from the word go. She’s off on the great adventure, with me in tow, as my little legs struggle to keep up. I dare not let her off the lead as she is not yet street wise and her response to ‘come’ when off the lead in safe and empty fields is to come tantalisingly close but not close enough to be touched, or held. She does not like her freedom curbed but has not learned the paradox that obedience will bring her safety and greater freedom. She spends playing time sliding sideways along the grass trying to rid herself of the ‘Halti’ which I use to train her and on bad days we both return panting and dishevelled to the Rectory.
Very like the relationship between toddler and parent and between people and God. There is a very old bit of the Bible in Hosea where God says: ‘I drew Israel to me with cords of love’... like a child on the reins with little bells (used when I was young).
We all have to learn that some rules are needed, not to curb our freedom, but to keep us safe... to give us a framework, support and structure in which we can grow. The simplest rules are the two Jesus quoted, as the children in St George’s school were learning in assembly this week; rules to help us live in a right relationship with God and with each other... but we don’t use the language of rules but of love.
I want Rose to trust me and to come to me, to keep her safe when there is danger, to obey me, so that we can walk freely in peace together, out of love, not out of fear and I believe God longs for us to learn the discipline of obedience, so we can walk together in peace.
Judith Malins
Priest in charge
Kingston, Langton Matravers, & Worth Matravers
SAVE OUR SCHOOL!
St George’s First School faces closure unless the community rallies to support it. People are passionate about saving it. Find out why and how you can help
CRISIS IN THE COMMUNITY
There has been a school in our village for 170 years but in three years it may well be an empty building. What will we have lost? If you care for the character of our community, if you care for the growing church, the post office, other local businesses, the Scouting movement and their long history in Langton, do you believe they will continue to thrive without the school at the heart of our community? Think of all the events that punctuate our year, in which our children and families play such a vital part.
How real is the threat to our school? When Dorset County Council decided to move to a primary/secondary system in Purbeck they were presented with site evaluations which expressed a preference for developing some first schools as primary schools on their current site. St George’s was not one of these schools. Dorset County Council is now consulting about the future of schools in the Swanage area. They have cancelled previous school closure proposals as a result of public pressure. Write/email to the people whose decisions could have such a disastrous effect on our community. We know that they back away from making unpopular decisions. Ten minutes of your time could safeguard St George’s, and thus the very future of our community, for generations to come.
If the school goes it will not return. Don’t be the person who wishes they’d done something to stop this, but didn’t. So: have you written to one or more of the addresses listed on the fliers? Have you expressed your “no” to the school being closed and moved to Swanage? People to write to are listed below. Tell them not to close our school.
Sarah Painter,
Chair of Governors
CLOSURE OF OUR SCHOOL
I don’t think people realise quite how real closure of our School is – and why should you?
Don’t we trust our Councillors and the Church to do the right thing by us?
People want village schools and some parents actively choose to send their children there because they like the idea of their children nurtured and educated in a village environment. If we allow DCC to close our village school we will be doing a great injustice to our village and future generations.
According to regulations they are now working to, the school is not adequate to take even 1 child, despite the fact it has been functioning for over 100 years successfully nurturing and educating children. Just because you can’t fit something into a box it doesn’t mean you just crush it! According to the Diocese, they may be better off having a Church of England School on the Middle School site.
Once the school has gone there will be no getting it back, there will be no getting the children back. The Church will not see the children skipping down the road to their Harvest Festival. The village will slowly but surely dismantle.
Don’t let it happen – you need to show your outrage and help them to see quite how ridiculous their inflexibility and shortsightedness is by lobbying Councillors and the Diocese. Dorset County Council in Dorchester and the Diocese in Salisbury are too far removed to be making decisions on our behalf without listening to us.
Swanage saved their first school, we can save our village school, but we have to fight.
Thank you for your support.
Jo Tatchell
Find out more & get involved: There are leaflets available in the Langton church
and post office.
For more information about the issues and our action group contact:
Sarah Painter 439 382 and Nicky Glassock 422 732
(Members of the St George’s Action
Group)
WHAT PEOPLE SAY:
“As chair of the Parochial Church Councils for Kingston, Langton Matravers and Worth Matravers. I wish to put on record that all three councils unanimously agree that it is essential for the villages and the school that it continues in its location as a village school.”
Judith Malins, Priest in charge
“We would sorely miss the children and their parents. Our business would definitely be affected.”
Bob & Anne, Langton Post Office
“Without the school, the heart of the village will stop beating. No school… no children… nothing.”
Belinda Benham, Magic Dragons & Langton Rainbows
“The intimate relationship between School, Church and Village could not be replicated elsewhere. Its loss would be heartbreaking.”
Angela Bell, Dubber Editor
“My child loves going to St George’s School and its small size and proximity to the Village certainly play a part in that.”
Krista Egan, Parent
“Too many village schools have closed, disadvantaging children, their families and village communities, we will do everything we can to ensure that St George’s remains an excellent village school.”
Don Pratt & Chris Meadows, Churchwardens St George’s Church
“Langton Scouts and Guides are a thriving group with around 100 young people attending our purpose built hall every week. Our main feed especially for Beavers and Rainbows is St George’s and should the school close the loss of these children would be catastrophic for us.”
Doug Quayle, Scout Group Chairman
THE PEOPLE TO LOBBY
DORSET COUNTY COUNCIL:
Mrs Toni Coombs(responsible for Children’s Services)
5 Aggis Farm, Verwood, Dorset BH31 6QD
t.b.coombs@dorsetcc.gov.uk
DIOCESE:
Mr Chris Shepperd, Director of Education
Salisbury Diocesan Education Centre, Devizes Road, Salisbury, Wilts SP2 9LY
Chris.Shepperd@salisbury.anglican.org
DORSET CABINET MEMBERS:
Mr Angus Campbell (Chair)
Preston Hill Farm, Iwerne Minster, Blandford, Dorset DT11 8NL
i.a.campbell@dorsetcc.gov.uk
Mrs H Cox (Vice Chairman)
Downside, Lower Farm, Hilton, Blandford, Dorset DT11 0DQ
h.a.cox@dorsetcc.gov.uk
Col. Geoffrey Brierly
Gulls Flight, Charberry Rise, Charmouth, Bridport, Dorset DT6 6BN
g.j.brierley@dorsetcc.gov.uk
Mr A R Cattaway
Marvins Farm, West Bourton Road, Bourton, Gillingham, Dorset SP8 5PQ
a.r.cattaway@dorsetcc.gov.uk
Mr S G Flower
5 Aggis Farm, Verwood, Dorset BH31 6QD
spencerflower@btinternet.com
MP/PROSPECTIVE PARLIAMENTARY CANDIDATE:
Jim Knight MP
House of Commons, Westminster, London SW1A OAA
jimknightmp@parliament.uk
Richard Drax, Prospective Parliamentary Candidate
South Dorset Conservative Association, Building C51, Winfrith Technology Centre, Dorset DT2 8DH
sdorset@lineone.net
LOCAL COUNCILLORS:
Mike Lovell (Purbeck Hills)
South Hyde, The Hyde, Langton Matravers, Swanage BH19 3HE
m.w.lovell@dorsetcc.go.uk
Mr William Trite (Swanage)
The Old School House, Norden Heath, Corfe Castle, Dorset BH20 5DT
w.trite@dorsetcc.gov.uk
GENERAL NEWS
MAGIC DRAGONS
Magic Dragons Mother & Toddler Group meets on Thursday afternoons from 1.30-
Belinda Benham
WHERE AM I IN PURBECK?
Here are some people who would like to see you, but where are they?
Last month, I was on the western end of Ballard Down at the obelisk that you can
see from the road to Studland just before you join the road from Corfe. I had parked
my car in the large lay-
Eventually, the woods peter out and there is a sign which says there is no access to Ballard Down; however, I plodded on at the bottom of the hill following animal tracks and quite soon you come upon the footpath up to Ballard Down and the Obelisk. It comes as a bit of a surprise to some that it does not commemorate a battle or an important person, but rather the bringing of a secure water supply to Swanage in 1883, which I suppose was a battle of sorts, and a pretty important one at that.
The reason that part of it is at one side of the monument is that it was taken down
during the war, as it would have helped enemy aircraft. When it was re-
Chris Meadows
HELP PLAN PURBECK’S FUTURE
Key issues affecting the District of Purbeck, including meeting the housing, employment and retail needs of local people, whilst protecting and enhancing Purbeck’s special natural environment, are to be debated as part of a major planning consultation.
Purbeck residents and businesses are being invited to have their say on key issues that affect the District’s future. Views are being sought on, for example, proposed locations for new housing development and sites for new supermarkets and employment land.
The consultation runs from 7 September until 30 October with opportunities for residents, business and community groups to air their views in a variety of ways. All residents and businesses will receive a copy of the Core Strategy consultation questionnaire and can get involved in the web forum on the Council’s website at www.purbeck.gov.uk and at road show events.
Linda Payne
RESIDENTIAL FOR YOUNG PEOPLE
There will be a Diocesan residential for young people on 19-
MONEY FOR PROJECTS
The Church Welfare Association can make grants for either residential or day care projects designed to assist and support women and children, particularly single parent families. Application forms can be obtained from the secretary, 15 Marina Court, Alfred Street, Bow, London E3 2BH or www.cwa.awardspace.co.uk.
MAKE A FREE WILL WEEK
Local solicitors have given up their time for Julia’s House and agreed to write standard
wills free of charge for appointments made during ‘Make a Will Week’ from 21-
KILLER COWS? ...JUST BE CAREFUL
I have been reminded this month, about how dangerous it can be to live in the countryside. There was a sad story of Mark Evison who died from anaphylactic shock from an allergic reaction he had to wasp stings. There has been a further four other people killed this year, trampled to death by cattle. One of these, was a farmer whose cattle were spooked by a fire engine siren that stampeded the cattle back down the lane towards him. The others were trampled while out walking, either walking with a dog or walking through a herd of cows with their calves.
Cattle are fascinated by dogs. Young cattle are inquisitive and will come charging across the field to take a look at who’s about and if the dog is involved this can be even more exciting for them. Some cows are highly protective towards their calves and will actually try to attack dogs and people walking through the field. Most dogs on their own will be able to zigzag away from cattle escaping quite easily.
Young cattle are more inquisitive than malicious. They are generally more frightened
of you and you of them. However, it is sometimes difficult to remember all this when
a herd of young cattle come running up towards you and snort down your neck. The
thing to do then is to keep calm, you can turn towards them and wave your arms or
a stick at them and shout at them in a loud authoritative voice. Even if you’re in
the field surrounded by cattle, they are unlikely to attack you. If you are in a
field with cattle, who are over-
If you want more advice from farmers are not come and meet them at the Purbeck Products markets, on 10 October, at Putlake Farm, Langton Matravers, or at Swanage Middle School on 24 October as part of Dorset Food Week. Meet the farmers, and buy some of the best tasting food in Purbeck.
Christopher Lees
THREE MEN IN A BOAT AND A CAT ON THE ROCKS
One sunny August afternoon, a Siamese cat sat majestically on a rock at Winspit watching
his master and two friends launch their homemade boat (the Sea Badger II) into a
choppy sea.
First, all three pals tried to man the six by two foot craft together. Needless to
say, they capsized every time. Finally, they climbed in individually, paddling furiously
before being tipped out in to the crashing waves. However, the last attempt was most
skilful with the occupant and boat worryingly disappearing toward the horizon – even
the cat looked shocked! Sunbathers began sitting up one by one shielding the sun
from their eyes as they witnessed the lone sailor paddling his tiny craft towards
France! Unable to turn back successfully the boat capsized and the marathon swim
began. In fear that his friend may need saving, one of the boys dived in to the sea
and began swimming out furiously towards his pal. What started out to be a bit of
fun was steadily materializing into a nautical drama. Both boys were strong swimmers
and much to everyone’s relief made it safely back to the rocks. 
Sea Badger II had been made from two pieces of ply wood, a dozen screws and duct
tape! It had previously come fourth in a competition where contestants had to hand-
Joy Pearce
NEWS FROM LANGTON MATRAVERS
A BIG THANK YOU
Thank you so much to everyone who helped in so many ways with the cream teas and music during August. We had four successful Sundays with delicious teas (all the homemade scones and cakes were donated) and two hours of very good live music from some talented musicians. The Village Hall kindly lent tables and we raised £1,000 towards the Church building fund.
Helen Knight & Mary Pike
MICROSCOPE MEETING
The Autumn Meeting of amateur microscopists will take place in the village hall on
Saturday 17 October. There will be the usual mix of microscopes and items on display.
Everyone is welcome to drop in and have a look and a chat, there is no charge and
tea or coffee may be available if you are lucky. Open 10am-
LANGTON MATRAVERS HISTORY & PRESERVATION SOCIETY
Reg Saville will give the second of two illustrated talks on the early history of
Langton on Thursday 15 October. This will take place in the village hall at 7.30pm
and is entitled ‘Langton in Saxon, Norman and Angevin Times’. All welcome, members
£2.20, non-
Help needed
The Society needs some help with distribution of Museum leaflets next Spring, I am no longer able to cover all of the widespread distribution. It is not necessary to be a member in order to help. If anyone is interested please contact me for further information.
Rosemary Stevens
A HALYCON WEEK IN LANGTON MATRAVERS
The recession can be blamed for very nearly anything now and one major project in our village that has ground to a halt, supposedly because of financial restraints, is the extension to the Raglan housing at Steppes. Not something that commands much attention from most people in the village but for those unable to afford to buy a house it has a direct bearing on their lives. The qualification for affordable housing is specifically geared to those with local connections and consequently, the setback of the eight planned dwellings at Steppes is viewed with great disappointment by those who thought they had a chance of getting a house this year.
The planning application for outline permission was granted earlier this year and
I was told that the detailed application would follow a public consultation. The
public consultation took place on 16 March but a detailed application has yet to
be lodged. The selected builder (C.G.Fry) attended and I was assured that actual
construction would soon follow. Next April is the latest forecast for a possible
resumption of the scheme. I believe that the scheme will proceed but exactly when
is anybody’s guess. The Parish Council tried to persuade Raglan to acquire additional
land for a ‘kick-
The need for affordable housing is clearly established every time there is a survey and it was written into the Parish Plan. Affordable housing relies on an exception site being offered by a landowner who is prepared to accept a very low price, (about £5,000 per plot), and it must adjoin the settlement boundary. The exception refers to relief from the strict embargo on anything outside the Settlement boundary. The Parish Council conducted its own survey and entered into discussions with the planning authority.
There are seven identifiable areas which could qualify but everything we have proposed has been virtually written off. We favoured an area adjoining Capston Field but the landowner, The National Trust, wouldn’t entertain an extension to the village. The Encombe Estate was prepared to talk about land at Leeson but the planner’s (cont p12) rejection was, ‘Setting of a listed building and highways concern about narrow footway links to village and Swanage’. The other rejections include, ‘too exposed, visually intrusive, too visually exposed from the A351’. It seems that affordable housing is something almost shameful and should be carefully hidden from view. The Steppes plan includes an earth bund so that those ‘council’ houses can be tucked neatly out of view and not offend the sensibilities of anyone motoring along the A351. What an awful social judgement on affordable housing. Town and Country Planning came in just after the war. It would be inconceivable now to build that wonderful arc of stone houses in Three Acre Lane or those 14 houses at Capston Field. And horror upon horror we surely couldn’t have those marvellous six houses at Abbascombe. Instead we have the woeful Raglan development.
It is a matter of personal regret to me that I have been unable to offer any comfort to those who ask us on the Parish Council what the chances are of their children living in the village. We are constantly being told that people will be given a greater say on how their lives are governed but in planning terms very little has changed. The big hurdle to overcome is that between the officers of the County and District Councils and their members. Our suggestion for an affordable site never got as far as the District Councillors. It seems that we are consigned to being a Brigadoon. I hope that it won’t take a hundred years until we wake up.
Norman Priddle
LANGTON MATRAVERS PARISH COUNCIL
Sarah Painter, the Chair Designate of the Governors of St George’s First School, said that, following further work carried out over the summer, the governors are convinced that a primary school suitable for the 21st Century is viable on the current site.
It was agreed that the Chairman would attend the Purbeck School Review Options Forum on 14 September. The Clerk was instructed to write to The Right Honourable Jim Knight MP, Conservative Parliamentary Candidate Richard Drax and all of the councillors on Dorset County Council to emphasise that, in light of the decision to change to a two tier system of education, the Parish Council is fully supportive of the view of the Board of Governors that the St George’s could be converted into a primary school and that any physical obstacles to this end could be easily overcome.
The Council urge that this view be given close consideration as it believes that the impact to the village and the wider community of closing the school would be considerable and that it would be a great loss. The Chairman commented on the fact that DCC is considering closing down St George’s school at the same time as Purbeck District Council’s Planning Purbeck’s Future Core Strategy document states; “Langton Matravers is a local service village needing some growth to sustain village rural services, principally the village school.”
The Chairman announced that DCC have now said that the pavement widening scheme between Steppes and Crack Lane is pencilled in for Autumn 2010 and that they have not yet completed the land acquisition.
The water supply to the allotments would be turned off for the winter on 30 September.
The Clerk was instructed to write to all of the householders of East Drove and to those of the High Street whose properties backed onto East Drove to ask them if they would be in favour, in principal, of East Drove being widened from the junction with Durnford Drove to the gateway of No 2 East Drove.
Planning applications this month
- Plan submitted by Mr P. Ferris to erect porch and conservatory at The Ship Inn, Langton
Matravers. -
The Parish Council has no objection. - Plan submitted by Mr T Howlett; Insert window in garage on south-
west elevation, increase size of rooflight on north- west elevation and use natural slate instead of clay tiles for the roof at ‘Woodfield’, Valley Road, Harmans Cross. - The Parish Council has no objection.
PDC decisions affecting this parish
- Plan submitted by DCC; to rebuild the entrance gate pier in a different position
to allow access to be widened, at Leeson House Study Centre. -
Withdrawn by applicant. - Plan submitted by Mr D. Fisher to erect conservatory at 52a High Street, Langton
Matravers. -
Approved. - Plan submitted by Mr Bowers to erect summer house – Certificate of Lawfulness. -
Approved.
The next PC meeting is 7pm 8 October in LM Village Hall.
John Bellucci, Clerk to the Parish Council
WORTH AFTERNOON CLUB
At our September meeting, Nick Viney talked to us about how he came into farming in Purbeck and his subsequent involvement with Farm Crisis Network and Purbeck Products. The talk was much enjoyed by the members and was followed by the Bring & Buy sale.Don’t miss the meeting on Wednesday 14 October, when Simon Goldsack of Holme Nurseries will give a talk entitled ‘Gardening on the Durlston Plain’. Visitors welcome. Please remember to bring £3.50 to this meeting if you are taking part in the ‘hands on’ session in November when we shall be making decorations for the Christmas table.
Rachel Seaton
BBQ ON THE GREEN
What a success it was! Grateful thanks to all concerned: Wilkswood BBQ; Midnight Ramblers music; Patti’s Salads; Jenny’s Puds; Jon the Balloon Man and of course, all you lucky people who bought tickets. With the special help of Flo Mayo and her band of little helpers we actually made a financial surplus for village hall funds. Great evening.
Derek & Helpers
WORTH MATRAVERS CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PARTY
Bobby the Clown is back to entertain the children this year with his Funny Puppet Show, Balloon Sculpture, Spinning Plates, Sweets, etc. Father Christmas will be calling in too with presents for everyone. There will also be a scrummy tea. All children from Worth Matravers and visiting children from the surrounding area are welcome. We can only cope with 35 children so book early. Venue is WMVH on Friday 18 December from 5pm to 7pm. Admission Free.
WORTH MATRAVERS PARISH COUNCIL -
No one has come forward with information after my appeal last month, concerning fly-
The Parish Council has handed over a cheque for £6,500 to HX Village Hall, towards the rebuilding of the hall. The money was pledged some three years ago, which then unlocked the way for other grants and funding, for example, from Dorset County Council. It is good to see the new hall taking shape.
The PC has applied to Purbeck District Council for permission for tree work to take place in Begbie Field, the most urgent being the two sycamores on the bank by the side of the road, Tree works will take place there over the winter months, also in the Withey Bed, the Village Green and the car park, to maintain the trees in good condition. We will be requiring some volunteer help to clear the undergrowth in Begbie Field and will be organising a working party in the near future if anyone is interested in helping.
The PC and Worth Community Property Trust have agreed to jointly approach PDC, regarding the future use of Swanworth Quarry, once Tarmac has extracted all the stone.
Cllr Larthe and I have accepted Swanage Railways invitation for a special trip from Corfe Castle to Worgret Junction, on Friday, 18 September, featuring the newly arrived “Bubble car” No. 55028. The purpose of the visit is to see what more needs to be done in order to reconnect the Swanage Railway with the national network.
The new Footpath Officer, Sandra Brown, has been very active in the Parish and has made several reports to DCC detailing actions that need to be taken, to improve the public footpath network.
Planning applications this month
- Oakleigh, Springbrook Close, HX. Erect side extension with roof extension to form
accommodation in roof. Insert two dormer windows in south and north elevations. -
The PC has no objections. - Rose Cottage, WM. Replace existing guttering and upper windows. Listed building consent.
-
The PC has no objection. - Braemar, WM. Extend existing roof and erect two storey side extension and insert
two roof lights. -
The PC has no objection but request that permitted development rights are removed for future applications, (e.g. garage). - There was a TPO application from the PC to reduce and shape White Beam and Cherry trees on the Village Green.
The next PC meeting will be held on Tuesday 6 October at 7.30pm in HX Village Hall.
Joyce Meates, Chairman
KINGSTON NEWS
The nights are lengthening and Kingston is quieter, so autumn is on its way. In fact, it has seemed like that for some time. The sun may be shining, but there is a sharp breeze and gardens are beginning to be tidied up.
Talking of gardens, Harry Dennis has had another success at the Harmans Cross Show
-
There has been another success in Kingston. Emily Girkins has won a place at St Peters, Oxford. There were only fourteen places on her course, so it was a wonderful effort.
I feel we do not do justice to our young people, but they and their parents are very reticent about their successes and I only pick up news second or third hand. And we do want to recognise the achievements of our young people in whatever they do.
We now have the final figures for the Fete. The gross takings were £4,739 and the
net profit was £4,282. The calendars are going well and there are still some left.
By the way, I discovered that the first fete was held in 1936, to raise funds for
the church. Sir Ernest Scott was persuaded by the rector, the Rev. F.S. Horan to
allow it to be held at Encombe. Sir Ernest agreed, provided it ended by 11pm. There
were coloured lights, the village band supplemented by some Corfe players and in
the evening the Kingston Jazz Band played for dancing. There was also a bar. It raised
£170. What might that be worth to-
The main concert season is over and the final one given by Zonda was particularly good. There is a report below. We have another entertainment to come on Monday, 12 October – the Harvest Supper. Keep the date free. Details will be found elsewhere. Sue Ireland would like all offerings of produce, flowers or general decorations to be left in the Church porch before or on Saturday, 10 October.
Sadly, John and Ruth Lewis are leaving us after an all too short stay. They are moving nearer to their family.
If there is any breaking news after 12 September, You will have to wait until November, because I shall have filed my copy and gone away by then.
George Pitman
CONCERTS
On the last weekend in August, this year’s season of five Kingston concerts in St James Church came to a triumphant close with an exhilarating performance given by the Zonda Ensemble.
The zest, skill and precision of this young wind quintet, all of whom had recently graduated from one or other of the London music colleges, was inspirational and relished by a sizeable and warmly appreciative audience.
The group chose an eclectic programme of pieces, some written specifically for wind quintet like Ibert’s Trois Pièces Brèves and some cleverly adapted for the purpose like Mozart’s Magic Flute Overture and Gershwin’s I Got Rhythm..
The quality of their playing was all the more remarkable given that the group had
to reconstitute itself at short notice and re-
With planning for next year’s series of concerts already underway, this is perhaps
the moment to thank Judith, our Priest-
Robin Stringer
HARMANS CROSS HORSE SHOW
Even though our entries were low again this year and there was a very damp start to the day, when the sun came out, it was glorious and people flocked in to watch the show. Especially popular was the fancy dress with plenty of entries mounted, and on foot. Once again, our thanks go to all our sponsors, many of whom support us year after year and to all our numerous helpers. The proceeds, this year, will go to the Village Hall Fund and the James Day Amenities Fund. The exact amount will be in next month’s Dubber.
Harmans Cross Horse Show Committee
THANKS FROM HARMANS CROSS VILLAGE CLUB
Following another successful Field Day on August Bank Holiday Monday, the Village Club, who organised refreshments in the hall, would like to thank everyone who donated cakes etc, which were enjoyed by the many visitors.
Thanks also to those who gave their time beforehand and on the day to help with the refreshments. The response from you all contributed to the success of Field Day once again. As we say goodbye to the old hall with this Field Day we all look forward with excitement to working in our New Hall.
Our sincere thanks also to David Hollister and his dedicated team for, once again, organising such a great event.
Mary Fisher, Chair Harmans Cross Village Club
OH WHAT A LOVELY AFFAIR!
The New Village Hall Team -
The sun shone, the visitors came, the Wessex Band and the Barrel Organ played, the children laughed and a sense of enjoyment was evident on Harmans Cross Fête and Field Day. As one enthusiastic villager commented ‘it was a real traditional village fair atmosphere.’ What more could the hard working, dedicated organisers have wished for?
David Hollister’s opening words at precisely noon on Bank Holiday Monday summed up
the community’s feelings: “Welcome to you all and thank you, thank you, thank you
for all your support; stallholders, helpers and the Village Hall management and Club
teams -
It was a great day for all concerned; it is hoped that profits will exceed last year’s £9,200 and provide a further boost to the New Village Hall Fund. But more important is the fact that everyone enjoyed this popular event – the visitors, the community at large, the many helpers and both Village Hall and Village Club teams to whom David conveys... ‘my thanks again... most warmly.’
Alan Stephenson
HASH HOUSE HARRIERS HIT HARMANS CROSS
Can you run, trot or just walk an easy course from the Village Hall? On Sunday 18 October, Poole based Hash House Harriers are holding their regular, eccentric event from Harmans Cross and would be happy for local villagers to join in.
The run/trot/walk will start at about 11am at the Village Hall and follow a circuitous course (no doubt calling at the Square & Compass!) returning for refreshments at the hall. A full bar menu including soft drinks will be available to both participants and visitors.
The HHH is a more social version of Hare and Hounds, where you join the pack of hounds (runners ) to chase down the trail set by the hare or hares, then gather together for a bit of social activity known as the On In or Down Down
With refreshment, humour, song and the occasional feast this promises to be interesting, to say the least! In most groups all are welcome, young and old, fast and slow... so come along and have fun. Interested parties should contact Paul Turner or Alan Stephenson.
Alan Stephenson
HARMANS CROSS VILLAGE CLUB
The rematch ‘Call My Bluff’ evening between Worth Matravers and Harmans Cross will be held in Harmans Cross Village Hall on Friday, 16 October. This is a fun evening and this year the HX team hope to be the victors. Tickets £5 to include light refreshments. The bar will be open to purchase drinks. The evening starts at 7pm. Details from Eileen.
The 22 October meeting for the club will be a talk on, and possible tasting of, Purbeck Ice Cream. Please come along and enjoy and support your club.Looking ahead to November, which comes around surprisingly quickly, the coach trip to Winchester City Mill is on 26 November.
Tickets will cost £10 (members) and £12 (non-
Marie Evans
MODEL RAILWAY GROUP
The model railway hobby is thriving and about 300 people came to our model railway
exhibition from in September. Our main layout was Evercreech operated by local lads.
There were five other smaller layouts and two sales stands; visitors ranged from
the young to the old. There was even a small dog whose head turned to watch the passing
trains. The engines ranged from a dark blue Somerset and Dorset locomotive to Deltic
diesels and Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends. Our next meeting is on Friday, 2
October at 7:30pm when we will be running Evercreech again and a small Hornby-
Robin Brasher
GRAND STEAM GALA & RALLY
Harmans Cross Station was an excellent vantage point to watch the steam gala. The
main attraction was a 7F 2-
The vintage transport rally took place in the field across the road from Harmans Cross Village Hall. The exhibits included tractors, lorries and cars. Most of the cars dated from 1945 to 1970. There were family cars such as the Austin A35, Ford Prefects, Morris Minors, a Humber Sceptre and a Sunbeam Rapier. Some had been to previous rallies but others were being exhibited for the first time.
Robin Brasher
HARMANS CROSS RESIDENTS’ CLUB
The next Club Quiz Night is Friday, 9 October. The bar will be open from 7.30pm and
from 8.30pm we are holding a free-
The next few Club Nights at the Village Hall from7.30pm to 10.30pm are 25 September, 9, 23 & 30 October (the last two are additional dates; members should add them the reverse of their membership cards) and 13, 20 & 27 November.
Nigel Edmonds, Chairman
THE VILLAGE CLUB
The last Winter Warmers at the present Harmans Cross Village Hall will be held on Wednesday 14 October at noon. Numbers will be limited to 50. Moonfleet convenience store has kindly offered to hold the booking list again and you can book from 29 September. If you do book and find you are unable to come, please contact Peggie Lees as there is usually a waiting list.
Jane Rogers
I was sad to learn that Kathy Ward who lived with her husband Jim opposite the pub in Worth has died. I knew she had been ill for some time and in fact had not seen her for many years, but I remember when she was very much a part of village life, looking after the ducks and doing her pottery and generally helping out.
She probably saved me from poisoning the village when I organised a pig roast before a dance and she gave me much needed advice about the dangers of undercooked meat and serving food in a place recently occupied by cows. The recent outbreak of E Coli which hospitalised a dozen children in Surrey reinforces the point. Fortunately, we all survived though I still think of her when I wait to be served in a food shop and see them going through their complex health and safety rituals with their alternative pairs of plastic gloves, special hats and separate washing facilities for this and that.
Nowadays, as Jeremy Hibbs our local milkman will tell you, it is not necessary to shop for food; it can be delivered with your milk in the morning. You don’t even have to leave the milkman a note, you order it the day before by email. It is a far cry from the milk man I once had in London who never seemed to take any notice of the notes we left him. Every day we got a random selection of milk until we eventually realised that he was unable to read.
The problem was solved by drawing a diagram of the number of bottles we wanted, though we added the words as well, partly to save his pride but also in the hope that he would eventually make a connection between the symbols and the letters. It was an early example of adult education, which worked very well, but I doubt he could have coped with an email.
Being in my small way an events’ organiser I frequently come up against the problem of how to spread the word about the event I am promoting. There are several possibilities, advertising, getting on the radio, putting up posters, etc. The golden rule is that the ways which cost nothing are more effective than the ways which cost good money. Ready made copy, sent to an editor which he prints for free because it fills his paper, is far better value than the same number of words paid for in an advertisement., However there are problems, for free advertising can become counterproductive. People get fed up with too many posters especially if they are left up long after the event has passed. Every now and again councils try to regularise the situation, but they generally make it worse by adding to their growing number of impractical bylaws.
If events’ organisers conformed to such rules the only notices left would be official ones like those from the police which so effectively spread alarm and despondency about the possibility of having stuff stolen from your car. It is quite touching how the keepers of official notice boards continue to post their bits of paper, apparently unaware that most people don’t read them. Every Parish has such a board, beautifully maintained in varnished oak of the very best quality and protected against rain by glass doors which are of course firmly locked. Those who want to know about the latest decision on graveyard grass cutting find them riveting but anyone interested in news of forthcoming entertainment events generally looks there in vain.
Even if responsible organisers want to use them, they first have to find the holder of the notice board key and persuade them to post their notice in the very limited space left over from those ever so detailed descriptions of official council business. Most organisers do not even try. They are unpaid volunteers with a lot to do in a short time. They plead for space in a shop window or where there is no shop, post their news on the nearest available telegraph pole or unused door way. It is not an ideal solution.
I suggest that every village should have next the official Board a large Community Notice Board unprotected by glass or locks and available without demur to anyone who wants to pin up a notice. There could be a few simple rules, like posting nothing larger that A4 and removing it directly the event is over. Otherwise it should be a case of anything goes, for objectionable notices are easily removed by the objectors like they sometimes are from the telegraph poles. I guess that such Community Boards would attract a wider readership than their Parish counterparts and, who knows, might even reduce the clutter of notices elsewhere.
Tony Viney
MINT & APPLE JELLY
2 kg cooking apples, washed and chopped
750 ml water
few fresh mint sprigs
500 ml distilled vinegar + juice of two lemons
sugar
90-
Few drops of green food colouring (optional)
Place the apples in a large saucepan with the water and mint sprigs. Bring to the boil, then simmer gently for about 45 minutes, until soft and pulpy. Stir from time to time to prevent sticking. Add the vinegar and lemon juice and boil for a further 5 minutes. Spoon the apple pulp into a jelly bag or cloth attached to the legs of an upturned stool, and leave to strain into a large bowl for at least 12 hours. Discard the pulp remaining in the jelly bag. Measure the juice extract and put it in a preserving pan with 450 g sugar for each 600 ml extract. Heat gently, stirring, until the sugar has dissolved, then bring to the boil and boil rapidly for about 10 minutes. Test for a set and, when setting point is reached, take the pan off the heat and remove any scum with a slotted spoon. Stir in the mint and add a few drops of green food colouring (if used). Allow to cool slightly, then stir well to distribute the mint. Pot and cover.
If you have a recipe that you’d like to share, please send it to ed@thedubber.co.uk.
St George’s
needs YOU!