WING NOTES
6
JANUARY 2005
13
JANUARY 2005
20
JANUARY 2005
27
JANUARY 2005
3
FEBRUARY 2005
10 FEBRUARY 2005
17 FEBRUARY 2005
24 FEBRUARY 2005
10
MARCH 2005
17
MARCH 2005
23
MARCH 2005
30 MARCH 2005
7
APRIL 2005
14
APRIL 2005
21
APRIL 2005
27
APRIL 2005
5
MAY 2005
12
MAY 2005
19
MAY 2005
26
MAY 2005
2
JUNE 2005
9TH
JUNE 2005
16
JUNE 2005
WING NOTES
16
JUNE 2005
ANN WEIGHT
Last Friday's "Magic
Evening" at Overstone School was a great success. The number
one escape artist, Eugene Matthias, delighted the audience with,
(dare I say it), his escapades. Over £300 was raised for school
funds.
On 25th June the school will host a Summer Fête and Craft Fair.
This will be opened at 2pm by Quentin Ing, our new County
Councillor. There will be a wealth of stalls and of games;
coconuts, roll a penny, milk the cow (come to the fair to find
out more), as well as a bouncy castle and a raffle with very
generous prizes. During the fête there will be a gymnastics
display by pupils. Tables cost £10 if you wish to sell.
Wing WI had a talk from Olivia Rickes about Memorabilia. Olivia
showed a huge assortment of items: kitchen gadgets, WI
programmes, patent remedies, crowned by a magnificent wedding
dress dating back to the early thirties. She certainly sparked
memories and discussion from members. The competition for wartime
memorabilia had brought out a wonderful display dating from the
Boer War onwards, which included a card from South Africa, a silk
embroidery made by ladies in Belgium and presented to liberating
troops, and a baby dress made from parachute silk.
Some Wing residents have recently been bothered by a bogus
caller, offering to do jobs in order to gain entry. Fortunately
no-one allowed him to get in. Netta Glover sends the following
advice:
· Genuine traders do not normally cold call.
· Council officials do not call unannounced
· Common phrases used by rogues:
“We’re only in the area today”
“We are doing a job down the road and we’ve got some
tarmac left over”
“I was passing and just noticed …”
· They will start off being friendly but eventually will try to
make you feel under pressure.
· They will generally insist on starting work the same day that
they knocked on your door.
· They won’t give you a written quote or any paperwork
before starting work.
Report any instances to the police immediately.
Forthcoming events:
Tuesday 21st June: Church Mice, All Saints' Church 2-3pm
Age Concern Pop-in, Village Hall, 2-4pm
Wednesday 22nd June: Senior Citizens' Lunch Club, Small Hall,
12.30pm
Thursday 23rd June: Collection of allotment rents, Wing Hall,
7-8pm.
Saturday 25th June: Overstone School Summer Fête and Craft Fair,
2pm, £10 per table.
Sunday 26th June: Car Boot Sale, Cottesloe School, 9am
Monday 27th June; All Saints' Church, talk by 2 missionaries, who
worked in the Plillipines after the tsunami, 8pm.
Tuesday 28th June: Parish Council, Small Hall, 8pm
WING NOTES
9TH
JUNE 2005
ANN WEIGHT
Carnival is fast approaching
and helpers are desperately needed. Wing Carnival is becoming a
bigger and better event with each passing year. This is due to a
small number of devotees, led by Steve Naghi, who plan and fund
raise all year to make this a memorable day. If you would like to
book a stall, do your own float or offer help, please phone 01296
682491. Otherwise turn up on the day, speak to someone in the
committee tent. If you are a newcomer to the village, this is a
sure way of getting to know people. You don't need to commit the
whole day; an hour of your time would be greatly appreciated.
Despite inclement weather, the WI coffee morning at the church on
21st May, to celebrate 85 years of the WI in Buckinghamshire,
raised over £200. Thanks were expressed to those people at All
Saints' Church, who gave permission to hold it there and to the
bell ringers for enhancing the event.
The plant and cake stall on 4th June, in aid of All Saints'
Church, raised £430. Thanks go to Sethi, who opened the
facilities at the shop and sent refreshments.
Forthcoming events:
Thursday 16th June: WI "Memorabilia", Small Hall,
7.30-10pm
Saturday 18th June: Friends of Wing Church Wine Tasting, phone
01296 681982 or 688246
Tennis Club Summer Dance, phone 01296 680446 or 681059
Tuesday 21st June: Church Mice, All Saints' Church 2-3pm
Age Concern Pop-in, Small Hall 2-4pm
WING NOTES
2
JUNE 2005
ANN WEIGHT
A chapter closed in the
history of Wing Parish Council on Tuesday, with the retirement of
Harry Ayris, still serving the community at the age of 82. Harry
came to Wing in 1962 to work as assistant bailiff at Liscombe
Park. Having worked as Parish Clerk in Marsh Gibbon for 13 years,
he offered his services to Wing Parish Council, starting with the
accounts and then serving as Parish Clerk from 1964 to 1996. In
1997 he became a Parish Councillor and has been Vice Chairman,
and acting Chairman from January 2005.
As well as serving on the Parish Council, Harry has been Church
Warden at Soulbury Church for 16 years and was a Special
Constable from 1948 to 1982, ending as Special Commandant in
Milton Keynes. He has deservedly received several awards for
services to local government from both the County Council and the
District Council. Perhaps the best tribute came from a former
Parish Councillor, who said that she had never yet heard a
question put to the Council that Harry could not answer.
Harry received a presentation of a selection of whisky together
with a basket of flowers for his wife, Iris. The thanks of the
people of Wing must go to him with best wishes for a restful
retirement and for his and Iris' Diamond Wedding next year.
It has been a busy few days at Overstone School!
On Friday 20 May Years 1 – 6 enjoyed a production of
“Oliver Twist” by a visiting theatre company. That
afternoon the entire school took part in a sponsored walk as part
of the "Walk 2 Live" event, the biggest ever mass
sponsored walk for schools. Money raised will go towards the
planned extension of the school playground. Well done to all the
children and thank you to all their sponsors. The final amount
raised is still being calculated.
As reported last week, the PTA’s Ladies Evening of
Indulgence and Pampering was a tremendous success. Approximately
£580 was raised for PTA funds. The PTA wishes to thank everyone
who took part, in particular Janet Pridgeon for her hard work in
organising the event.
Pupils from Years 3 – 5 took part in a Spring Concert,
involving instrumentalists and the choir. There were performances
on a range of instruments, including woodwind, brass, violin,
guitar and keyboard. The children performed magnificently and the
evening was thoroughly enjoyed by all present.
The school’s nursery unit held a successful Toddler
Afternoon where current and prospective parents dropped in to
experience a play session in progress and to talk to staff. Two
classes from Years 3 – 4 visited Sulgrave Manor, near
Banbury. Children and staff dressed in Tudor costume for the
visit and even had a Tudor style lunch.
Anyone with energy to spare will need to consult their social
diary this month, with so many events taking place in Wing The
Carnival seasons kicks off next Sunday with the annual Wing
Womble. Previous years have proved that the stalwarts will take
part whatever the weather, but let's hope for good conditions.
Participants will gather at the Social Club at 10am and choose
one of 3 routes, depending on fitness level, 15km, 10km or 5km.
Pre-book to save queuing or turn up on impulse. You won't be
turned away!
The Tennis Club summer dance will take place on 18th June, in a
marquee on the courts. Tickets are still available for £20.
Phone 01296 681982 or 688246.
Forthcoming events:
Tuesday 7th June: Church Mice, All saints' Church 2pm
Wednesday 8th June: Senior Citizens' Lunch Club, Wing Hall
Thursday 9th June: Bottle recycling
Friday 10th June: Magic, Mystery and Illusion Show, Overstone
School, 6.30-8.30pm
Sunday 12th June: Wing Womble, meeting at Social Club, 10am
WING NOTES
26
MAY 2005
ANN WEIGHT
Wing WI held a coffee morning
in All Saints' Church last Saturday to celebrate the 85th
anniversary of the WI in Buckinghamshire. Unfortunately heavy
rain deterred would-be callers but a healthy £200 was raised for
WI funds nevertheless. The bells were rung at the same time to
coincide with peals from other bell towers across the county. A
group of WI members went to Milton Keynes Theatre on Wednesday to
see "Miss Saigon", which was enjoyed by all.
The Indulgence Evening at Overstone School was a resounding
success. With a huge proportion of the school in use for
treatments such as manicures, nail art, Reiki, facials,
reflexology, and the hall used for merchandise, everyone seemed
to be very busy.
Ladies of All Saints' Church will hold their annual plant and
cake stall on the corner by the old newsagents on Saturday 4th
June. As in previous years, the plants will be strong, healthy
and of excellent value, while customers need to arrive early to
find any cakes. These sell like the proverbial hot varieties. The
sale begins at 9.30am.
I am often asked to publicise events and back up appeals, and am
very happy to do so. This column would not be a success without
that contact, so please continue to phone me or email. However, I
would like to ask you to remember the follow-up. Please let me
know the result of your event, the amount raised, whether my
appeals for help bear fruit. Phone 01296 688750 or email
ann.weight@pgen.net.
Forthcoming events:
Tuesday 31st May: Parish Council, Small Hall, 8pm.
Saturday 4th June: Plant and cake stall 9.30am.
Tuesday 7th June: Church Mice, All Saints' Church, 2-3pm
Friday 10th June: Magic, Mystery and Illusion Show, Overstone
School 6.30-8.30pm. Tickets from school.
WING NOTES
19
MAY 2005
ANN WEIGHT
Wing is pleased to welcome
Paula Boston, our new Police Community Support Officer, whom I am
sure many of you have already seen or even met. She is based in
Wing and will be on foot patrol around the village to tackle low
level crime and anti social behaviour. She can be contacted on
0845 8505505, which is also the number for non-emergency calls to
the police. The village has been fortunate to have been given
this support in our efforts to make Wing a comfortable place to
live, but villagers must support our PCSO. She, and the police in
general, cannot solve problems without local help. If you receive
threats or witness any anti-social behaviour please report it, so
that the campaign can be effective.
Wing WI debated the resolutions for the National AGM. The first
concerned care of the environment and the need to try to recycle
more, whilst the second was to draw attention to the vast
difference between what we pay for milk and the price paid to
farmers. The group will be represented at the AGM in London this
year by a member of Linslade Larks WI. After the discussion
members enjoyed a pot luck supper and the mood was lightened by
entertainment from Shi'maya and members of Utopia belly dancing
group. The next meeting will be on 16th June, when there will be
a talk about memorabilia.
Forthcoming events:
Tuesday 24th May: Church Mice, 2-3pm, All Saints' Church.
Wednesday 25th May: Senior Citizens' Lunch Club, Small Hall,
12.30pm
Sunday 29th May, Benefice Communion at Aston Abbotts, 10am, no
service in Wing.
Tuesday 31st May: Parish Council, Small Hall, 8pm.
Saturday 4th June Plant and cake stall outside former newsagents,
9.30am
WING NOTES
12
MAY 2005
ANN WEIGHT
There's a busy week coming up
in Wing. Did I hear someone say that there's nothing to do in the
village?
As well as the regular clubs and activities, Overstone School PTA
is organising a Ladies' Indulgence Evening on 20th May. Sorry,
gents, perhaps another time! Come for taster sessions of Reiki,
manicure, facials, reflexology, as well as opportunities to buy
jewellery and accessories. Entry is £3 if pre-booked or £4 on
the door. Book your treatments by phoning 01296 688799.
If you hear the church bells on 21st, they are ringing, along
with the bells in other villages all over the county, to mark the
85th anniversary of the Bucks Federation of Women's Institutes.
The National Federation celebrates its 90th anniversary this
year, so Bucks wasn't far behind. The aim of the WI was to
provide opportunities for, at first women in rural areas, to
undertake workshops in crafts or to extend their education. The
movement has spread now to urban areas, with thriving branches in
most towns and villages, as proven by the original "Calendar
Girls". With the excellent reputation of WI home made
produce, there will be coffee, tea, cakes and biscuits, as well
as a cake stall and plant stall at All Saints' Church from 10am
to 12 noon.
Cathy Faulkner has one of her plant stalls, unfortunately at the
same time, but there's time to go from one to the other. If you
walk from Dormer Avenue to the church, you won't feel so guilty
at eating that WI cake. This year her fund raising is in aid of
Hearing Dogs for the Deaf.
Forthcoming events:
Tuesday 17th May: Age Concern Pop-in, Village Hall, 2-4pm
Thursday 19th May: WI, discussion of resolutions for National
Federation AGM, followed by pot luck supper, Small Hall, 7.30pm
Friday 20th May: Ladies' Indulgence Evening, Overstone School,
7-10pm
Saturday 21st May: WI coffee morning, All saints' Church, 10am -
12 noon.
Cathy Faulkner's plant sale, 64 Dormer Ave, 10am-1pm.
Sunday 22nd May: Open Day, Wing Bowls Club, 2-5pm
Tuesday 24th May: Church Mice, All Saints' Church, 2-3pm
WING NOTES
5TH
MAY 2005
ANN WEIGHT
On Wednesday the 20th April a
lorry lost control and smashed into the dining room of a house on
a sharp bend on Aylesbury Road, causing extensive damage.
Fortunately no one was walking past on the pavement at the time.
Had there been, they would certainly have been killed and anyone
in the dining room would probably have been seriously injured.
At the moment heavy traffic passes through Wing, negotiating a
narrow road with two right-angled bends. Articulated lorries are
unable to pass each other and therefore mount the pavement, often
within a few feet of properties. Cars frequently exceed the speed
limit. The pavements are used extensively by children from the
two large schools and by many dog walkers. There is no pedestrian
crossing, just a small island between the two right-angled bends,
where it is often necessary to almost run in order to cross.
Up to now Bucks County Council has done very little. The bypass
is still under discussion. There are no speed cameras, no
pedestrian crossing, no road signs to warn of the bends and no
reduced speed limits. The road has been improved recently with a
better camber enabling traffic to travel more quickly, whilst the
new road surface is at a higher level making it only a few inches
lower than the pavement, thus encouraging traffic onto the
pavement. The small island to allow pedestrians to cross was
actually made smaller as it upset the flow of the traffic.
The traffic problem in Wing, on Aylesbury Road, High Street,
Stewkley Road and Rothschild Road is worsening, whilst Church
Street is rapidly becoming an alternative short cut to avoid
parked cars by the shops.
On a happier note a Ladies' Indulgence Evening is to be held on
Friday 20th May from 7pm at Overstone School. Come and try a
facial, nail art, Indian head massage, Reiki or a makeover. There
will be make-up, jewellery, handbags, books and much more on
sale. Tickets for the event cost £3 in advance or £4 on the
night. All treatments will be 20 minute taster sessions costing
£5 each. To pre-book your admission, to book a treatment session
or for further information please contact the school on 01296
688799 or Janet on 01296 688989.
The school's 4+ department will be holding a Toddler Afternoon on
Tuesday 24th May from 1.15 - 2.45pm. Current or prospective
parents are invited to drop in with their toddlers to experience
a play session in progress.
The Bowls Club is holding an Open Day on Sunday 22nd May from 2pm
to 5pm. Come along and try out the game. All ages are welcome, no
special equipment required. Wear flat-soled shoes, but everything
else is provided, even tea and biscuits.
Forthcoming events:
Tuesday 10th May: Church Mice, All Saints' Church, 2-3pm.
Wednesday 11th May: Senior Citizens' Lunch Club, Small Hall.
Thursday 12th-Saturday 14th May: Wing Players present "Sound
of Murder", Wing Hall, 8pm. Details 01296 682915 or 688729.
Tickets £5 from Hartwell properties. Bring your own food and
drink.
WING NOTES
27
APRIL 2005
ANN WEIGHT
The Parish Council met last
Tuesday and first of all discussed the perennial problem of the
Wing by-pass. There will be a 5 day consultation period, probably
in November, in Wing Hall, when senior planners and staff will be
on hand to present options and to answer questions. The Parish
Council plans to advertise the consultation and to survey
villagers afterwards. Details are to be discussed further with
the County Council.
The estimated cost of repair to the war memorial is approximately
£22,000. There are few suitable craftsmen and it is difficult to
get an estimate. Steve Naghi is researching the matter.
The Community Police Officer has finished training and will start
work full time next week, working shifts, with patrols in the
locality. It was thanks to crime reports that the appointment was
made, so do continue to report any anti social behaviour.
Unfortunately vandalism continues. The cry goes up, "We all
know who they are", but do we? If you do, report it and give
intelligence to the police. The CPSO will help but need to know
the time and details.
It was suggested that the reason behind this vandalism was that
the youngsters are bored, there is nothing for them to do and
there are no play areas. To answer all 3 suggestions: Is boredom
a reason to condone vandalism? I know from writing this column
that there are many activities in Wing, but perhaps they are not
"cool" if they do not give the excitement of
wrongdoing. And we do have good play areas, which these
youngsters are reluctant to use in the way that they should be
used.
Has anyone walked along Church Walk recently? The walls are
covered with graffiti and the ground with dog mess. Probably the
dog walkers will decry the graffiti artists for their anti social
behaviour, and probably the graffiti artists will be annoyed if
they step in the dog mess while defacing the environment. Aren't
they all as irresponsible as each other, all showing a lack of
consideration for their environment and other people? Perhaps
someone could name and shame the dog owners, too. Theirs is also
a punishable offence.
Finally, on parish matters, if anyone is aware of any street
lights that are not working, please phone 01296 688750.
Many of you will remember Cathy Faulkner, who cycled through
Jordan for Breast Cancer Campaign last year. Cathy's total sum
raised was a magnificent £5156, thus achieving her target of
£5000. In recognition she has been invited to a reception at the
House of Lords in June, to meet Baroness Fookes as well as
doctors and scientists involved in research. However, Cathy is
not sitting still. This year, in November, she will cycle 500km
in 6 days through Rajasthan in India, and her chosen charity is
Hearing Dogs for the Deaf. As well as a plant stall at the car
boot sale she will have stalls in Dormer Avenue and will be
holding various events in the village.
WING NOTES
21
APRIL 2005
ANN WEIGHT
Cottesloe School American
Exchange programme has been running for 25 years and was started
by David Carrington who is a teacher at The Cottesloe School. The
programme has had many co-ordinators over the last 25 years and
is now run by Miss Chloe Speck.
This years exchange was the 25th anniversary trip. 12 students
accompanied by Miss Chloe Speck and Mr Alexander Thorning –
Curtis departed for Cape May Court House on 16th March and
returned on 9th April.
The scheme exists to promote contacts between British and
American school students. It is a school-based programme and
students attend classes as well as participating in a series of
activities planned by Middle Township High School for our group.
The programme is carefully considered and planned by the American
and English teachers to enable both sets of students to learn
about the education systems and the way of life of both
countries. In addition to the educational value, many lasting
friendships have developed involving not just the students but
the families as well.
Over the years, much has been learned and the students have
developed a better understanding and appreciation of another
culture. It is hoped to continue this for years to come.
Wing WI met on Thursday for a demonstration of flower arranging
from Neil Gurney, an old favourite of the group. Neil
demonstrated a table centre, an upright arrangement and a
pedestal arrangement, with very entertaining anecdotes as he
worked. It was an inspirational evening and a sign of his skill
that he made it look so easy.
James Goldson, a student at Aylesbury Grammar School who ran a
table top sale a before Easter, made a total of £300, which will
be shared with his friend to fund their Borneo World Challenge
Expedition. The 2 boys will be part of a group who will travel to
Borneo in July for a month. As well as climbing Mount Kimbalu and
visiting an orang-utan sanctuary, they hope to trek to an
isolated community and build a shelter for their church.
The May Day Bank Holiday next Monday sees the renowned car boot
sale on Jubilee Green. Pitches cost £5 if pre-booked or £6 if
paid on the day. Phone 01296 688735 to book. Many village groups
benefit from the proceeds of this event, so do come and give it
your support, either to sell or to buy.
Forthcoming events:
Tuesday 26th April: Church Mice, All Saints' Church, 2-3pm
Parish Council meeting, Small Hall, 8pm.
Wednesday 27th April: Tinytalk, Small hall, 10-11am
Messy Monkeys, Wing Hall, 10-10.45am
Senior Citizens' lunch club, Wing Hall, 12.30pm
Monday 2nd May: Car Boot Sale, Jubilee Green.
Cream teas, All saints' Church, 3pm
WING NOTES
14
APRIL 2005
ANN WEIGHT
The WEA class on Gaudi is
going well, providing great enjoyment to all participants.
Unfortunately for those who spent too long thinking about
subscribing, the "Walled Gardens" day school at Luton
Hoo is not only full, but has a waiting list.
Forthcoming events:
Tuesday 19th April: 2-4pm, Small hall, Age Concern Pop-in.
Wednesday 20th April: Tinytalk 10-11am, Small Hall
Messy Monkeys, 10-10.45am, Wing Hall.
Thursday 21st April: WI, 7.30pm, Small Hall, Flower Arranging
with Neil Gurney. Competition: Flower arrangement in a wine
glass>
Friday 22nd April: Wing Players quiz night, details from Berni
01296 688729
Sunday 24th April: Cream teas, All Saints' Church, 3pm
Tuesday 26th April: Church Mice, All Saints' Church 2-3pm, for
pre-school children and carers.
Parish Council, Small Hall, 8pm
WING NOTES
7
APRIL 2005
ANN WEIGHT
My thanks to Faith Whiting for
standing in for me during my holiday and for her admirable job.
I'm back now to the blustery winds and April showers. The Wing
calendar shows that very little was happening during the school
holidays, but the dates are filling up fast as far ahead as July.
From this week the usual activities resume, with many activities
especially for the pre-school age group. There's the Ladybird
Parent and Toddler group at the Wing Hall Monday and Thursday
10am - 11.30am, "Church Mice" at All Saints' Church
Tuesday at 2pm and Tinytalk and Messy Monkeys in the Small Hall
and Wing Hall Wednesday at 10am. The other end of the spectrum is
not neglected with the senior citizens' lunch club at Wing Hall
on Wednesday at 12.30pm. In addition there's The Cupboard in the
village hall on Tuesday and Thursday from 9.30am - 5pm and Line
Dancing in Wing Hall on Friday at 9.30am. On Thursday the Snooker
Club is holding an open evening at the village hall (upstairs)
from 7.30pm. And any would-be bell ringers are welcome to turn up
at the church tower on Friday from 7.30pm.
We are now looking ahead (it hardly seems possible that the time
is drawing near again) to CARNIVAL! After the magnificent success
of last year there are great aspirations for this year. On Friday
15th there will be a Quiz Night at Wing Hall, in aid of Carnival
funds. This year's theme is "Circus" and there will be
prizes for those who dress in the theme at the Quiz Night. Tables
are for a maximum of 6 people and the cost is £2 per person. To
book your table call 01296 682784. Helpers are also needed for
the Carnival itself, to man a stall, to help with preparations,
anything large or small that you can offer. Call the same number.
If you missed the start of the WEA course on Gaudi there may be
the possibility of joining in by calling 01296 688193 or 01525
376224. The last WEA course of this academic year will take place
on 7th May at Luton Hoo. The subject will be "Walled
Gardens", which were an important feature of country houses
for centuries but are now redundant. The day school will be led
by Oonagh Kennedy and will look at the past and future of walled
gardens. Pre-enrolment is essential by 23rd April, £20 at either
of the 2 numbers given.
The Guides are in need of volunteers to help their leader to run
the group. Meetings are on Tuesdays from 7pm to 8.45pm. Training
and support are given. The reward is not monetary, but in the
success and growing confidence of the young people. If you can
give of your time and energy call 01296 681804.
And don't forget that Thursday 14th is recycling day for papers,
cans, plastic and bottles.
WING NOTES
30
MARCH 2005
FAITH WHITING
As Ann is away enjoying a much
deserved break she asked me to attend, and give you a short
report on this months Parish Council meeting.
In the Chair this month was Cllr Paul de Lusignan. He began
the evening by welcoming newly elected Cllr Edmund Waller, and
members of the public. He also pointed out that due to an
impending retirement there would shortly be a further vacancy on
the Parish Council.
The matter of a new burial ground was once again on the agenda,
and a recent site meeting with Bucks County Council Highways
Department gave cause for optimism.
Cllr Naghi reported that he had removed large amounts of graffiti
from the new play equipment in Jubilee Green.
Following on from the issue of graffiti, the issue of anti-social
behaviour was once again raised by a member of the public.
Wing will soon be receiving its own Police Community Support
Officer. It is hoped that this will be an added weapon
against persistent offenders. It was also firmly stated
that this kind of behaviour will not be tolerated and the fight
against it will go on.
The village Tennis Club explained that its courts are in need of
urgent repair, and asked for the Council’s support.
They have raised a considerable amount of money themselves but
need one final push to make the venture viable. They stated
that the courts were for the use of all villagers, and that their
membership fees are low in comparison with other clubs in the
County. The club also provides recreation for many of the
village’s youngsters over several nights in the week and at
weekends. The Council asked the Tennis Club to submit exact
details of the plans to tem before next months meeting for
further consideration.
One final matter that I would like to mention from the meeting is
the restoration of the village War Memorial. Cllr Naghi has
undertaken the task of co-coordinating the restoration of this
piece of the village’s history. This year it will be
85 years old and still remains an important part of the annual
Remembrance Day celebrations. Cllr Naghi made known that he
would be placing collection tins in local pubs and shops into
which members of the public would be encouraged to place their
donations towards this cause. For further information on
this keep an eye on the ‘What's on in Wing’.
During the meeting other matters were discussed ranging from
traffic calming to street lighting. All these issues are
important to the existence of this village, and at this point I
would like to take this opportunity to recognise what an
important and vital role our Parish Council play in the smooth
running of our village. I have lived in the village of Wing
for the entire 23 years of my life and up until now had never
realised the function and importance of our Parish Council.
Forthcoming Events
Sunday 10th April, Lay led Worship at All Saints Church, 10am
Tuesday 12th April, Church Mice in All Saints Church, 2pm
WING NOTES
23
MARCH 2005
ANN WEIGHT
It seems that spring has
sprung and that the daffodils planted around the village are
starting to bloom.
Last Sunday the Sunday School walked to church with 2 donkeys to
commemorate Palm Sunday. The donkeys remained very quiet and well
behaved until one disgraced himself and had to be taken outside!
No permanent damage done!
I was asked to keep a diary of events, which you can now see on
the village website. It is arranged in 3 columns, Church events,
Village Hall events, and anything else. I will keep it up to date
month by month. If your event is advertised in "What's on in
Wing", I will pick it up automatically, but if you would
like anything else added, please contact me- ann.weight@pgen.net
. I would like to be able to add times and venues for Guides,
Scouts etc as well as sporting clubs. But please remember to let
me know when you are closed for the holidays.
Forthcoming events:
Tuesday 29th March: Parish Council, Small Hall, 8pm
Sunday 3rd April: AGM, All Saints' Church, 11am, for anyone on
the electoral roll.
Monday 4th April: WEA course "Gaudi", Wing library
2-4pm, 4 weeks. Call 01296 688193
WING NOTES
17
MARCH 2005
ANN WEIGHT
Children of Sunshine Nursery celebrated Red Nose Day by baking cakes with white icing and a red "nose" (cherry) on the top, and selling them to parents.
Pupils of Overstone School,
trained by Mrs Bridget Watson, joined choirs from many other
Buckinghamshire primary schools at the Royal Albert Hall on
Monday. !600 children took part, singing to a packed house, a
tremendous and prestigious achievement at such a young age.
On Thursday members of Wing WI heard a very entertaining talk
from Cherry Ann Evans and Lisbeth Lloyd, who were evacuated from
London to Wingrave during the war. They told of winters that were
winters, when the village pond froze over, doubtful plumbing that
surprised children from the city but also of the kindness of
people from Wingrave. There were memories of amateur dramatics,
occasional films and carol singing for the President and
government of Czechoslovakia, who, at that time, were given
refuge in Wingrave and Aston Abbots.
Forthcoming events:
Tuesday 22nd March: Church Mice, All Saints' Church, 2-3pm for
pre school children.
Wednesday 23rd March: Senior Citizens' Lunch Club, Small Hall.
Friday 25th March: Stories, music, activities for Good Friday
with hot cross buns, All saints' Church 10am
Tuesday 29th March: Parish Council, Small Hall, 8pm.
Looking ahead:
Monday 4th April: WEA course on Antoni Gaudi, 2-4.15pm, Wing
Library for 4 weeks. £29 (£26 if pre booked), tel 01296 688193
or 01525 376224.
These children from Sunshine Playgroup are due to join Overstone school
WING NOTES
10
MARCH 2005
ANN WEIGHT
Those who use the village post
office will have noticed that Sethi is back from India. He has
just spent 3 weeks in Sri Lanka, where he raised £2500 for the
Tsunami Appeal. To do this in such a short time is truly a heroic
feat, which he did not want to be mentioned. However, perhaps it
may motivate a concerted village effort to match his efforts. I
hope to speak to Sethi before next week to give more details of
what he found and did there.
As there is still no definite solution to the siting of the new
burial ground in Wing, residents may be interested to know that
there is an application for a green burial ground in Little
Horwood. Trees would be planted as markers instead of headstones
and a wild flower area would be formed, along with a wetland
walk. We do need to think of our environment and it can only be
an improvement on plastic flowers, surely.
Not a village matter, but I would like to congratulate Anne Cox
of the LBO for her review of the MK theatre production of
"Rebecca". It summed up my own sentiments perfectly.
And I must say how well Sarah Holmes performed at her belly
dancing taster - a natural! The LBO seems to have a very
versatile staff.
Forthcoming events:
Tuesday 15th March: Age Concern Pop-in, Small Hall, 2-4pm
Thursday 17th March: Bottle recycling.
7.30pm: WI "How to be an Evacuee", talk by Lisbeth
Lloyd and Cherry Anne Evans. Small Hall. Competition- Pack a
shoebox for an evacuee of the 21st century.
Saturday 19th March: Musical Showcase with Jill Neenan, a local
professional singer, Wing Hall to start at 7pm. Profits to the
Tsunami Appeal. Tickets £4, tel 01296 688442
Sunday 20th March: All Saints' Church, Palm Sunday service. Meet
at junction of Littleworth and Moorlands for the procession to
church with donkeys.
Tuesday 22nd March: Church Mice, for pre school children, All
Saints' Church, 2-3pm.
WING NOTES
24
FEBRUARY 2005
ANN WEIGHT
Parish Council
Almost the first item on the agenda last Tuesday was the election
of a new Chairman but it proved impossible to find an ideal
candidate. Most of the Council members work full time and
expressed concern about their ability to devote enough time to
the post. Thus, the meeting had to continue with no permanent
Chairman and the ever faithful Harry Ayris as Deputy in the
Chair. The vacancy caused by the resignation of Councillor
Gibbons remains unfilled.
The applications by Jardines (UK) Ltd and Wing Pharma, on behalf
of the 2 Surgeries, to open a pharmacy in the village have been
settled in favour of Jardines. The proposed site is somewhere on
the High Street, although it was thought unlikely that it would
be in the former newsagency. Council members expressed their
disappointment and thought that many villagers would be unlikely
to use the new facility Once they left the surgery they would get
their prescriptions filled as they shopped. It will be
interesting to see if Jardines does follow up its successful
application.
Parishioners will remember that a Wing resident has been seen to
support the anti-by-pass protest and there was concern that this
might be taken as evidence that Wing does not want its by-pass,
even after the 20 or 30 years it has taken so far. The view taken
was that, provided a suitable route can be found, residents would
be in favour. Although consultation does not restart until later
in the year, parishioners are encouraged to make their views
known to the County Council planners.
Another prospective burial ground site has been found and will be
inspected for access. Hopefully, progress will be made this time.
And, lastly, after an improvement in its standing last year, Wing
will submit itself to the scrutiny of the Best Kept Village
competition.
On 17th February Wing WI heard a talk from the Thames Valley and
Chiltern Air Ambulance. Members gave generously to support the
organisation and Jean Biggs won the competition with over 300
words from "helicopter". On 24th February members had a
meal in "the Queen's Head" on Thursday. The good
company and the excellent meal were not marred by the inclement
weather. The next meeting, on 17th March, will be a talk on
"How to be an evacuee" and the competition will be to
pack a shoebox for a 21st century evacuee.
I owe an apology to Elaine Lavery for reporting that her talk on
SE Asia was on Saturday, rather than Friday 25th February. I hope
that she still had a good audience and raised as much as possible
for the Tsunami Appeal.
Forthcoming events:
Sunday 6th March: Mothering Sunday service, All Saints' Church,
10am
WING NOTES
17
FEBRUARY 2005
ANN WEIGHT
What’s been going on at
Overstone School?
Overstone School PTA would like to thank everyone for all the
donations for their jumble sale in January and to those who came
along on the day. They raised the magnificent sum of £540!
A Viking trader visited two classes to tell the children all
about Viking life, while two classes recently had an enjoyable
and informative visit to Hazard Alley, the safety centre at
Milton Keynes.
Two infant classes dressed up for a special day learning all
about the Great Fire of London.
Children in the school choir are looking forward to performing at
the Royal Albert Hall in March, taking part in a concert of
combined Buckinghamshire school choirs. Watch this space for more
news of that important event.
A number of paintings by pupils are now brightening up the walls
of Si-Kunda school in the Gambia. They were taken there along
with donations of pens, pencils, crayons and football boots.
Perhaps someone at the school has a photograph that we might see.
Forthcoming PTA events:
25 February 6.30pm - Family Quiz
20 May – Ladies Indulgence Night
10 June 6.30pm – Magic, Mystery and Illusion Show
25 June – Summer Fete
For more information please contact the school on 01296 688799.
Netta Glover has passed on a warning of salesmen selling what
they claim to be fresh fish at your door. Their goods are often
not fresh and sometimes have already been frozen. Consequently,
if customers buy it and refreeze it, it could be a health hazard.
Forthcoming events in the rest of the village:
Tuesday 22nd February: Church Mice, All Saints' Church, 2-3pm,
for pre school children.
Saturday 25th February: "Travels in SE Asia" - talk
with slides in aid of tsumani appeal, Small Hall, 8pm. Tickets
£5, 01296 688717
WING NOTES
10
FEBRUARY 2005
ANN WEIGHT
Cottesloe School staged an
excellent and very professional production of "Annie",
reflecting the efforts of Drama teacher, Becky Roberts, and
Musical Director, Wendy Lewis. There was superb acting from a
cast which included 6th former, Kiri Fitzgerald, Annie was ably
played by Samantha Williamson from Year 7, but Ruby Lewis, also
of Year 7, had to stand in at the last moment for the dress
rehearsal and a schools performance when Samantha was ill.
There will be a table-top sale in Wing Village Hall on the 12th
March. The sale is in aid of a World Challenge expedition to
Borneo, which two Aylesbury Grammar students from Wing are
fund-raising for. For 1 month, the students will be doing some
community work out there e.g. teaching, rebuilding facilities, as
well as trekking through the jungle. Each student needs to raise
£3000 for the expedition! For the sale, doors will open at 9 am
and it will finish at 12 noon. Tables can be bought for £6 and
people can start setting up at 7.30 am. Contact Ben Lambert on
01296 682795 for booking. There will also be a 50p entry fee, but
children get in free. Refreshments are also available. Anyone
buying a table, or just turning up would be greatly appreciated.
Elaine Lavery, who lived for some time in the Far East, will give
a talk and slide show, entitled "Travels in south-east Asia
in the Small Hall on Saturday 25th February. Proceeds will go to
the Tsunami appeal. The talk will feature northern Sumatra and
Phi Phi island, both of which suffered greatly in the disaster.
Entry will cost £5 and details are available from Elaine, 01296
688717.
Forthcoming events:
Thursday 17th February: Wing WI, 7.30pm Small Hall. Speaker from
Thames Valley and Chiltern Air Ambulance. Competition: As many
words as possible from helicopter.
Tuesday 22nd February: Church Mice, All Saints' Church, 2-3pm
WING NOTES
3
FEBRUARY 2005
ANN WEIGHT
I have on a few occasions in
the past, unfortunately, had cause to report antisocial behaviour
by young people at the tennis and bowls clubs and on Jubilee
Green. This month's "What's on in Wing" reports that
watering cans in the graveyard have been removed. At the same
time there are reports of the achievements of the Beavers, Cubs
and Scouts, who have competed in county events and community
service projects, including the delivery of Christmas cards in
the village. Do we want our youngsters to grow up with a sense of
responsibility or not? The Beavers have lost their leader and the
other leaders can only keep the group going until July. If there
is an adult out there, who would be willing to give up some time
for a very worthwhile and rewarding cause, phone Sue Hogg,
01525217660. It's easy to give money, but giving your time
involves a commitment. However, the rewards far outweigh those
felt when putting money in a collecting tin.
May I remind people that the garden rubbish is not taken with the
general refuse collection in Wing, nor in any recycling
container. Leaving bags of garden rubbish on the High Street will
only result in it being left there indefinitely. Garden rubbish
must be taken either to the tip in Leighton Buzzard if it is a
small amount, or to Raban's Lane in Aylesbury if you have a
trailer. Please don't expect other people to remove it for you.
Forthcoming events:
Wednesday 9th February: Tiny talk, Small Hall 10am - 11am.
Messy Monkeys, Village Hall, 10am - 10.45
Thursday 10th February: Ladybird mother and toddler group, Wing
Hall, 10am - 11.30
Saturday 12th February: Valentine Disco, Wing Hall, 8pm. For
tickets call 01296 688718 or 688580
WING NOTES
27
JANUARY 2005
ANN WEIGHT
Wing lost a valuable member of
the community with the death of Thelma Shepherd. Thelma died on
14th January in Stoke Mandeville Hospital, after a long illness.
Born in Wing, educated in the village school, working for many
years at Lancer Boss, Thelma devoted a lot of time and effort to
village life. She was Chairman of Wing Hall Trust and was
instrumental in the setting up of the village sign, as well as
having the police station brought to Charlotte Cottage. Thelma
was never afraid to speak her mind or to protest in writing when
she had strong feelings, which was quite often, where her native
village was concerned. MPs and Chief Constables all received her
letters. But in addition she instigated many social activities, a
dancing class 60 years ago, as well as car treasure hunts and
village quizzes. She was a long-term member of Wing WI, who
observed a minute's silence in her honour at the January meeting.
She was also a faithful member of the congregation of All Saints'
Church, where her funeral was held on 26th January. John Hall,
former resident of Wing, and close friend of Thelma and her
family, spoke in affectionate terms of her influence on himself
and on the community. Thelma will be sadly missed by her son,
Martin, and even by those who did not know her, but reap the
benefits of what she initiated.
A misapprehension arose from the wording of my report of the
Parish Council meeting at the beginning of January. An omission
of the word "May" led readers to understand that Harry
Ayris and John Spires were retiring with immediate effect. I
apologise to Mr Ayris and to Mr Spires, who have, in fact, been
very considerate in timing their retirements, in May, so that
replacements can be appointed, who will spend the first few
months of office with the experience of these two officers still
available.
At the Council meeting last week Councillors agreed the process
by which nominations for the vacant post of Chairman would be
invited, with the aim of achieving appointment of a successor at
the February meeting.
The other main item for discussion was the setting of the precept
for 2005/6. After careful consideration the Council decided that,
with the prospect of significant expenditure in the next 12
months on projects such as a new village burial ground, and
improvements to street lighting, it would wrong to reduce the
precept as compared with the current year. However, the Council
decided that it would not, on this occasion, seek any
increase."
If romantic men in Wing are looking for a St Valentine night out
for their chosen ladies, look no further. A disco is being
organised in the Village Hall on Saturday 12th February, with
proceeds being shared between Cancer Research UK and the Stoke
Mandeville Cancer Unit. The price of tickets, which cost £15,
includes a buffet supper and there will also be a licensed bar.
Telephone 01296 688580 or 688105 for details.
Bus Passes for new applicants and taxi tokens for those who want
them will be issued on Wednesday 9th March at the Village Hall
between 10.00 am and 12 noon.
Subject to confirmation by Council, the proposed District Council
tax rise will be 18p per week, or 9.2%. County, Parish, Police
and Fire Brigade precept separately.
If anyone wants to start a collection for the Tsunami disaster
they will need a licence from AVDC. Netta Glover, County
Councillor for Wing, has details for interested parties.
Forthcoming events:
2nd, 3rd, 4th February: "Annie", the musical, performed
at Cottesloe School by students. Tickets £5 from school.
WING NOTES
20
JANUARY 2005
ANN WEIGHT
Wing resident, Marge Dickens,
was awarded a Certificate of Merit from Aylesbury Vale District
Council for voluntary work in Wing over many years. Steve Naghi
had nominated Marge, who was a Parish Councillor for 12 years and
served on various committees in the village. She still collects
LBO target stamps for Florence Nightingale Hospice, s well as
goods for their shop.
Wing WI had a talk from Roy Collis on the Royal Star and Garter
Home. Mr Collis, former County Librarian, first regaled us in a
very entertaining way, about how he came to find his first job as
a librarian, and then how he changed route to find his present
role as part time regional organiser and fund raiser for the Star
and Garter Home. The Home, which is situated in Richmond on
Thames, was founded by Queen Mary in 1916. The original premises,
a former hotel, were demolished to provide more suitable
accommodation with access for wheelchairs. There are now up to
170 residents who are former members of HM Forces, disabled
either on duty or by medical problems. There are now plans to
re-house the Home in 3 purpose-built establishments, each in a
different area of the country.
The Wing Hall Trust, which manages the Hall, met last Monday. The
Hall provides a place for meetings, celebrations and
entertainment for the benefit of the villagers and has done so
for almost 100 years. Although a commemoration is planned the
Committee wants information about the opening events and history
of the Hall. If you can help, just get in touch with any member
of the Committee. There was, unfortunately, much discussion about
minor damage being done to the Hall. In the main it appears to be
carelessness but it does cost money to repair so that the high
standard is maintained. Money which could be spent on
improvements.
Forthcoming events:
Tuesday 25th January: Church Mice, All Saints' Church, 2pm.
Parish Council Meeting, Small Hall, 8pm.
Wednesday 26th January: Senior Citizens' Luncheon Club, Wing
Hall.
Thurs 27th - Sat 29th January: Wing Players' pantomime,
"Rumplestiltskin", Wing Hall.
Saturday 29th January: WEA "Vikings, where on earth did they
get to?" Union Chapel, 10am - 4pm
WING NOTES
13
JANUARY 2005
ANN WEIGHT
Overstone School held a
non-uniform day on Friday 7 January to raise funds for the Asian
Tsunami appeal. The children wore something white to show their
support for the affected families. The magnificent sum of £498
was raised for the appeal.
Don’t forget the Overstone School PTA jumble sale on
Saturday 22 January at 2.00pm at the school (Church Street,
Wing). There will be clothes, toys, books and bric-a-brac,
together with refreshments and a cake stall. Admission is 30p.
Wing Players pantomime, "Rumplestiltskin", takes place
on 27th, 28th and 29th January. On Friday and Saturday prices are
£5, and concessions £3. However, on Thursday all seats will be
at the lower rate of £3. Tickets are available from Maureen
Lomas, (tel 01296 682915), or call at the house next to All
Saints' Church.
Cottesloe School is in second place among the non-selective
schools in Buckinghamshire for its GCSE results in 2003. 69% of
Cottesloe pupils gained grades A to C.
Forthcoming events:
Tuesday 18th January: Age Concern Pop-in, Small Hall, 2pm-4pm
Thursday 20th January:
Bottle collection.
Wing WI, Small Hall, 7.30pm. Talk by Roy Collins DL on Star and
Garter Homes. Competition theme is a garter.
Meeting in Library also at 7.30pm to discuss future of Sunshine
Nursery.
Saturday 22nd January: Jumble Sale, Overstone School, 2pm.
Tuesday 25th January: Church Mice, for pre school children and
carers, All Saints' Church, 2pm.
Parish Council Meeting, Small Hall, 8pm
WING NOTES
ANN WEIGHT
Parish Council
It was back to work with a vengeance at last Tuesday's Parish
Council meeting. Set amongst the routine affairs of planning
applications, finance and the state of Jubilee Green there were
discussions about policing in the village, provision of a
replacement burial ground and support for the tsunami disaster
appeal. PC Brigginshaw was in the firing line and was able to
report that some youths had been apprehended but that witnesses
are in short supply. Many villagers say that they know who is
responsible but they are not prepared to sign a statement, which
would lead to a conviction. It is difficult to stand up for what
is right in the face of intimidation but the Police are powerless
without evidence! A plea - report all crime and get a Crime
Number.
The burial ground returned to the agenda with some angry words
from the public. Those present are not alone, they do not want to
be cremated and they want to be buried in their village, and
there is a general feeling that the Parish Council should have
resolved the problem by now. The Chairman explained that the
Council does not have the funds necessary to purchase land and
lay it out. Generous benefactors have offered gifts of land but
Bucks County Council has, so far, blocked the use of the proposed
sites. The latest offer is being put through the planning
process. If you want to help write to John Bercow MP, Councillor
Mrs Brenda Jennings at Bucks CC or to our District Councillor,
Mrs Netta Glover. It is an election year!
Again, it was the Public who brought up the topic of fund raising
for the tsunami appeal. The Church of England is raising money
through collections after its services but the most promising
suggestions were from Sethi and Simi from the shop and Mark
Watson. Nothing was firmly planned but ideas ranged from jumble
sales to evening entertainment. It looked as though Sethi, Simi
and Mark were the co-ordinators as they left the hall. What can
you do, do you have any ideas? Tell the co-ordinators.
And lastly, the bombshell. The Chairman, Councillor David
Gibbons, announced that he was retiring with immediate effect
because of pressure of work. His experience and knowledge of
local council business will be sadly missed, as will his skills
as a chairman. A new Chairman will be elected at the next meeting
on 22nd February. Also departing will be the Clerk, Mr John
Spires, and the Deputy Chairman, Mr Harry Ayris, who has served
the village in so many ways over a very long period.
Wing WEA is now taking enrolments for their one-day course on
29th January, entitled, "The Vikings: Where on earth did
they get to?" It will be held at Littleworth Chapel and
costs £19, final booking date 22nd January.
Forthcoming events:
Tuesday 12th January: Senior Citizens' Lunch Club, Wing Hall.
Saturday 14th January: Variety Evening, Wing Hall. Tickets from
Country Style.
Tuesday 18th January: Pop-in, Small Hall, 2pm-4pm