WING NOTES
2 MARCH 2006
9 MARCH 2006
16 MARCH 2006
23 MARCH 2006
30 MARCH 2006
6 APRIL 2006
13 APRIL 2006
20TH APRIL 2006
26 APRIL 2006
4 MAY 2006
11 MAY 2006
18 MAY 2006
24 MAY 2006
30 May 2006
8 JUNE 2006
15 JUNE 2006
22 JUNE 2006
WING
NOTES
22 JUNE 2006
ANN WEIGHT
Wing library summer
reading scheme starts on 8th July. This is limited to 4-12 year
olds only. Information and registration in the activity are at
the library, open all day Tuesday and Friday until 7pm, as well
as Wednesday and Saturday until 12.30pm.
"Music in Quiet Places" comes to All Saints' Church on
1st July. Renowned oboist, Philip Riordan, will join members of
the orchestra of Stowe Opera for music by Albinoni, Mozart and
Corelli. Tickets are available from Bobbie Ward, tel 01296
681982, £6.50 (concessions £2).
This is the last chance to get tickets for tonight's film show
about "Bucks in World War II" in the village hall. A
programme of 3 unique films about the Home Front, Bucks
regiments, and the war effort in Bucks, is enhanced by music from
the 1940s and a buffet supper, all for £5. If you don't have
your ticket either phone 01296 688449 or turn up at the door at
6.30pm. Proceeds go to the Royal Star and Garter Home for
disabled servicemen.
Wing WI had an intimate meeting, since the committee en masse
were either on holiday or had other engagements. However, those
who attended enjoyed an interesting talk and demonstration on
"Ikebana- the art of Japanese flower arranging".
Members will host a stall at the Carnival with bric a brac and
home produce. Contributions will be gratefully accepted on the
day.
Forthcoming events:
Saturday 1st July: Overstone Summer Fête, 12 - 2.30pm
Saturday 15th July: Wing Carnival.
WING
NOTES
15 JUNE 2006
ANN WEIGHT
Bucks County Council
mounted a very good exhibition about the future Wing bypass.
Residents, who attended, were relieved to find that the proposed
routes are further from the centre of the village than at first
feared. However, people living near the possible routes now have
the chance to protest. Even if you approve of the routes, contact
BCC to express your views so that approval is registered along
with disapproval. If you do nothing you have no right to complain
when the final decision goes against you.
The anticipated completion date stands at the moment at 2013.
However, much hinges on the smooth running of all stages up to
then. The preferred route will be published in winter 2006,
environmental statements will be drawn up in 2007, planning
permission will be sought in winter 2007, with further surveys
and the buying of the land in 2009. There could be public
enquiries during these stages to delay matters and BCC will have
to fund the early stages of drawing up proposals and the planning
applications before any government money is forthcoming. This,
then, may cause a problem if money is not available.
Theoretically the work would start in 2011 and be completed in
2013.
One noticeable change was that the Wing bypass is now seen as
being linked to the Hulcott and Bierton bypass, and could be
affected if there are protests or changes there. Those who
attended the meeting were given packs of information. Otherwise
you can respond on:
www.buckscc.gov.uk/a418improvements
The Neighbourhood Action Group met at Wing Village Hall, led by
Police Inspector Simons, with Netta Glover in attendance. Several
problems were identified, principally concerning vehicles. High
Street and Aylesbury Road were mentioned for speeding problems,
especially during the times of the school run. One possible way
forward would be the hire of "rumble strips", which are
more accurate than the SID device, as drivers do not slow down
for them. There is a problem with HGVs which are too large for
Aylesbury Road and Leighton Road, and a weight restriction was
proposed for Wing, Burcott and Soulbury. Rothschild Road is being
used as a shortcut by school buses and HGVs, whilst motorists are
driving on the pavement in the High Street. (I can testify to
this - I prefer to reverse into my drive, so that I can drive out
safely, signal with indicators, arm out of the window, and hazard
lights, yet drivers frequently drive past me over the pavement as
I am reversing into my gate.)
Parking on the pavements is a problem by Cottesloe School, by the
shops in High Street, by Park Gate bungalows, in Littleworth,
Moorlands and Heley's Field. The PCSO will now be able to issue
fixed penalties for obstruction.
Anti-social behaviour was identified among under-age drinkers on
Jubilee Green on Friday evenings, but no other problems were
mentioned.
Forthcoming events:
Tuesday 20th June: Age Concern Pop-in, Small Hall, 2-4pm.
Wednesday 21st June: Senior Citizens' Lunch Club, Wing Hall,
12.30pm.
Saturday 24th June: Friends of Wing Church Summer Supper Party,
£25
Tuesday 27th June: Parish Council, Small Hall, 8pm.
Bucks in World War II, £5 tel 01296 688449
WING
NOTES
8 JUNE 2006
ANN WEIGHT
Wing Community
Support Police Officer, Paula Boston, who was appointed in March
2005, has received an award for Top Community Support Officer of
the Year in Thames Valley. Congratulations must go to Paula
herself, and I am sure that Wing residents must feel very proud
of her. Paula would like to express her thanks to those who
nominated her, including residents, members of the council and
Netta Glover. She feels that she was warmly welcomed into the
Wing community by all age groups, and residents say that there
has been an improvement in vandalism, although there are, as yet,
no official crime figures to verify this. Wing organisations have
opened their doors to her, and she is working with Cottesloe
School, as well as sometimes visiting the Age Concern Pop-in, as
an honorary guest rather than a member! It is heartening to be
able to report the effectiveness of the scheme in such a short
time.
On Monday "Tea at 3" was held in All Saints' Church in
aid of Florence Nightingale Hospice. Even though the turn-out was
not as expected, £228 was raised for the hospice. Thanks should
go to those who donated the home-made cakes and helped with the
work.
Villagers also donated generously to the Lifeboat Appeal, even
though Wing is far from the sea. Over £500 was raised, yet
another record. Congratulations to Winston and his team of
volunteers.
I have received several comments about cars parked on the
graveyard at All Saints' Church during recent events there, when
parking was available at Overstone School. Even though the
churchyard is officially closed to more burials this is still
consecrated ground. The Church Council has taken steps to make
arrangements with the school, but if you have a disabled relative
please drive up the path to drop them off and then back out to
park. The Oxford Diocese is now enforcing regulations about care
and appearance of the churchyard, which include what may be
placed on both graves and cremation memorials. The rules are
posted on the notice board by the lych gate, and unauthorised
materials must be removed by 1st August.
I have often in the past had to beg for volunteers to help with
Brownies, but the 2 groups are fortunate at the moment in their
supervision, and even have places for new recruits. !st Wing
Brownies meet on Mondays in the Small Hall at 6.15pm, whilst 2nd
Wing Brownies meet on Tuesdays at Wing Chapel at 6pm. For more
details phone 01296 681849.
Forthcoming events:
Thursday 13th June: Wing WI, "Ikebana", Small Hall,
7.30pm. Competition-arrangement of 3 flowers & twig.
Saturday 17th June: Tennis Club Summer Dance.
Tuesday 20th June: Pop-in, Small Hall, 2-4pm
WING
NOTES
30 May 2006
ANN WEIGHT
Parish Council
Three matters dominated this meeting, or should I say, these
meetings. First there was the Annual Council meeting, during
which the officers were, in this case, re-elected. Some
parishioners had expected that this would be the occasion for the
Parish meeting but because the Chairman wishes this to be a less
formal and more general meeting it has been postponed to
September. Then came the meeting proper and public participation,
during which strong feelings were expressed about the proposed
new license extension being sought by the Thai Bangla restaurant.
They felt that the new license despite the wording to the
contrary, would enable extended opening hours, which would
increase parking problems and traffic noise, and that loud live
music might be used. There were also problems, the residents
reported of smells from the kitchen; this was a matter for the
Environmental Health officer. Letters have been sent to the
licensing department.
Then came the A418/Wing by-pass. Public consultation starts this
week with an exhibition and public discussion in Wing Hall
(Wednesday to Saturday) and will be followed by a similar event
in Wingrave 2 weeks later. This is a matter of great importance
to us all and it is vital that Bucks CC be made aware of our
views. Please support the events. There will be questionnaires
and, no doubt, information on the BCC web site. Responses should
be in by the end of August, we believe. The Councillors decided
that it would be inappropriate for the PC to express a view but
that individuals would be free to respond to the consultation.
The PC role would be to ensure fair play.
At a previous meeting there was a suggestion that the PC would
organise a village consultation at which alternative schemes
could be open to public scrutiny. With no indication of the BCC
proposals from which to start work on alternatives nor a demand
from the villagers it was decided that this could not be planned
in advance. The event planned for the 6th July will not go ahead
under the auspices of the PC.
Parish Clerk
Mr Len Jones, who has done sterling work as Parish Clerk since he
took office has resigned because of the pressure of other work.
If you are interested please write to the Chairman of the PC c/o
the Parish office in Charlotte Cottage.
Overstone School
Great fun was had by all at the recent Family Quiz Night
organised by the PTA. Thank you to everyone who took part,
particularly Jean and Ian Lawson for running the evening.
Forthcoming events:
Magic Evening – Overstone School will be presenting a family
show of magic and illusion on Friday 9 June at 6.30pm. Tickets
cost £5 each and are available from the school office.
To celebrate the Queen’s 80th birthday the school is holding
a tea party on Friday 16 June. It would like to invite any Wing
residents who will also be celebrating their 80th birthday this
year to this event. Please contact the school office on 01296
688799 if you have not already been invited.
Nursery Open Afternoons – The Nursery will be holding open
afternoons on 19 and 26 June 2006 for 3 year old children and on
21 and 28 June for 4 year olds. Children and parents are welcome
to attend either one or both sessions. To reserve a place, please
contact the school office on 01296 688799.
The Overstone School summer fete takes place this year on
Saturday 1 July from 12 noon. There will be sideshows for all
ages, lunch will be available as will a beer tent and a chocolate
fountain so there is something for all the family! New craft
stalls will be welcomed - please contact the school office for
more information.
WING
NOTES
24 MAY 2006
ANN WEIGHT
Did anyone else have
the same problem as me this week? I had to search through the
pages of the LBO to find the village notes. I thought at first
that I'd missed the page. Where were all the village churches,
Wingrave's pond and Ivinghoe's "King's Head"? Is this a
permanent new look for the Village Link? Please can we have our
church back?
Are there any more people who are finding problems since the X15
changed its route? It's no longer possible to get a bus to
Leighton Buzzard station from Wing. The X15 now turns up Bunkers
Lane, stopping just after the turn, and then not again until
Tescoes. It used to be possible to take a train to the station
from Wing, but it's hard to imagine that we are being encouraged
to use public transport.
Have you signed the petition against the reduction of services
offered by village post offices? Sethi would like to thank all
those who have done so, 38 sheets of 20 signatures so far. By my
reckoning that makes approximately half the adults in the
village. Please add your signature before services are cut.
Villagers must make their views known or we will lose the
amenities left, such as dispensaries, library, post office. In
the past Wing residents have campaigned successfully concerning
important matters in the village. There will soon be
consultations about the by-pass. If we ignore these opportunities
to voice our opinions we lose the right to complain when
bureaucrats make sweeping decisions.
Forthcoming events:
Tuesday 30th May: Parish Council 8pm, Wing Library (please note
change of venue).
Monday 5th June: Tea at 3, All Saints' Church, 3-5.30pm, in aid
of Florence Nightingale Hospice.
WING
NOTES
18 MAY 2006
ANN WEIGHT
Roy Collis, former
county librarian and Wing resident is to produce what promises to
be a fascinating evening in the Village Hall on Tuesday 27th
June, in aid of the Royal Star and Garter Home. The evening will
celebrate the 90th anniversary of the Home for disabled
servicemen and will be based on the theme of Buckinghamshire
during the 2nd World War. After a performance of 1940 music from
the Mandeville Chamber Ensemble the programme will begin with a
half-hour film about life on the home front. This will be
followed by a film about Bucks Regiments, including their part in
the D-Day landings. Supper and a drink are included in the price,
and the evening will conclude with a film about wartime
operations in Buckinghamshire, including of course Bletchley Park
and "Winston Churchill's Toyshop" in Whitchurch. For
such an evening the price of tickets at £5 is very reasonable
and supporting a very good cause. Phone 01296 688449 to reserve.
Wing Football Club reserves won the Marsworth Cup last Thursday,
2-1 after extra time. Goal scorers were David Whiting and Danny
Farmer.
To quote AA Milne, "The King asked the Queen and the Queen
asked the Dairymaid, 'Could we have some butter for the royal
slice of bread?' " Perhaps there won't be bread and butter
but on Monday 5th June there will be "Tea at 3" in All
Saints' Church, in aid of the Florence Nightingale Hospice.
Better than bread and butter, there will be tea and home made
cakes.
Forthcoming events:
Tuesday 23rd May: Church Mice, 2-3pm, All Saints' Church
Collection of allotment rents, Small Hall, 7.30-8.30pm
Tuesday 30th June: Parish Council, Small Hall, 8pm
Monday 5th June, "Tea at 3", from 3 - 5.30pm, All
Saints' Church
WING
NOTES
11 MAY 2006
ANN WEIGHT
If you receive a card
through your door from a company called PDS Parcel Delivery
Service, saying that they have a parcel awaiting delivery
instructions and can you contact them on 0906 6611911, DO NOT
call the number as this is a mail scam originating from Belize
If you call the number and you start to hear a recorded message
you will already have been billed £15 for the phone call. If you
do receive a card with these details, then please contact Royal
Mail Fraud on 02072396655 or ICTIS at <http://www.icstis.org.uk/> or your local trading standards
office.
More news about this tear's Carnival. The theme will be
‘Films’ and there will be another top quality show of
dancers, comedians and magicians as part of the afternoon arena
events. Majorettes, Toddington town band, local
‘Bollywood’ dancers and a new children’s
entertainer, Stripey Wipey, are already booked. Wing Raiders will
be running a football competition which should be great for the
younger generation, and the fire brigade will carry out a car
rescue demonstration-if a car can be found that can be cut up!
Any offers? A new introduction -or re-introduction- will be the
Craft Tent. This is a welcome return after the discontinuation of
the Craft and Produce Show. Confined to entries from Wing only,
and masterminded by Judy Freeman and Janette Slade, this will
give us all an opportunity to show off our skills and efforts.
Entry forms and details are in this month's "What’s
On". Any organisations wishing to run a stall as a money
raising ventures are invited to borrow one of the carnival games
for the day. "Splat the Rat" and "Treasure
Island" are available, should anyone wish to take up this
offer. Plenty of space is available for those wishing to run
their own table or activity, and with the theme of
‘Films’ in mind. Entries for a procession round the
recreation field are most welcome. If you have any queries at
all, or would like to help in anyway, please give Vic Sirett a
call on 01296 682491.
Forthcoming events:
Tuesday 16th May: Age Concern Pop-in, Small Hall, 2-4pm
Wednesday 17th May: Senior Citizens' Lunch Club, 12 o' clock
Thursday 18th May: WI, Small Hall 7.30pm, Resolutions and
pot-luck supper. Competition: a pin cushion
Sunday 21st May: Bowls Club open day, 2-5pm
Tuesday 23rd May: Church Mice, 2-3pm, All Saints' Church
Allotment Society rent collection, Small Hall, 7.30-8.30pm
WING
NOTES
4 MAY 2006
ANN WEIGHT
What a splendid event
at All Saints' Church last weekend! If you missed the Flower
Festival I can only commiserate and say that you must wait in
anticipation of the next one, perhaps in 10 years time! Lucy
Lester, Liz Shrubsole and Judy Freeman must be congratulated for
the co-ordination and many of the wonderful displays but thanks
must also go to the numerous other workers, who helped in all
sorts of capacities and the sponsors of the many imaginative
arrangements. I wonder if it is fair to mention any by name, but
the scent that welcomed visitors in the porch and the mass of
purple came from the Pop-in's "When I am old I will wear
purple." The sense of humour in this choice was evident, as
was Pantling's Garage "Noddy" in his red and yellow
car, complete with bucket and sponge. The children visiting were
delighted by this and many couldn't resist poking to see what was
underneath.
The Flower Festival itself was supported by many other events, so
that the whole weekend was a hub of activity: Morris dancers,
Teddy Tumbles from the tower, tours of the church and tower,
refreshments, not to mention the choir of Overstone School. The
best part of it all must have been the spirit of enjoyment and
the atmosphere of our village church, which has been at the
centre of the village for nigh on 1300 years, and which came
alive to welcome so many people. I am pleased to report that a
magnificent sum of £2742 was raised in aid of All Saints'
Church. However, for a historic building that costs £100 per day
to run this represents the needs for February.
At last week's Carnival AGM the Chairman, Steve Naghi, ran
through the activities of the year to an audience of committee
members and an encouraging turnout of parishioners. The Carnival
has grown to be one of the more engaging events in the local
area. This has been due mainly to the introduction of
professional entertainment, along with a larger selection of
fairground equipment, bands, majorettes, static displays, village
stalls, pig roast and disco, all combining to make the day so
enjoyable to all members of the family. We shouldn’t forget
that the committee is also responsible for a variety of other
things that go towards supporting life in Wing: the carol service
and the large decorated Christmas tree on Aylesbury Road serve to
bring a sense of unity within the village. Steve emphasised that,
while enough money must be raised to cover the £4000 cost of
putting on the Carnival, the overriding policy of the committee
is to return every penny made back into the community by
donations to good causes or the staging of other events. The
Carnival is not a profit making exercise – it’s a
carefully arranged entertainment day for all of us, and we do
need nice weather to break even! Recent beneficiaries from
carnival funds have been donations to the Senior Citizens
Christmas lunch, the pre-school children of Sunshine and Ladybird
nurseries, the Church Mice circle, the youngsters of Wing Scout
Group and "What’s On in Wing". Looking ahead a
couple of months don’t forget to put 15th July in your
diaries for this year's carnival event. With a theme of
‘Films’ there will be another top quality show of
dancers, comedians and magicians as part of the afternoon arena
events. A new introduction will be the Craft Tent. Confined to
entries from Wing only and masterminded by Judy Freeman and
Janette Slade this will give us all an opportunity to show off
our skills and efforts. Entry forms and details are in this
month's "What’s On". If you have any queries at
all, or would like to help in anyway, please give Vic Sirett a
call on 682491.
At last weeks inspection by County officials our bowls green was
awarded a first class annual grading. This is the first time the
green has been fully certified as qualified to host matches to
County standard, and is most certainly a just reward for all the
voluntary work that goes into keeping the buildings and playing
surfaces in tip top condition. Visitors to the recreation field
can’t help but notice the manicured lawns and attractive
flower beds that go towards making that corner of the village
look so nice. The refurbished tennis courts also reflect great
credit to the fund raising efforts of its members. We
shouldn’t forget that not too many years ago what is now the
bowling green and tennis courts were just areas of swampy ground.
It was the vision and efforts of those people, many of whom are
still in the village today, who decided to start up these two
clubs that allow us to enjoy the facilities today. Not
forgetting, of course, the support and assistance of our Parish
Council that encouraged these projects to fruition. Now’s a
good time for a round of applause to everyone concerned! While
I’m on the subject of the bowls green. Don’t forget
their Open Day on Sunday 21st May. If you want to try your hand
at a healthy, competitive sport that can be enjoyed on equal
level between men and women then go along between 2pm and 5pm and
have a go. All you need is a pair of flat heeled shoes like
trainers, everything else will be available – including
refreshments.
What a pleasure it has been to report so much positive news this
week, although I must mention 2 stalwart members of the Carnival
Committee, who turned up to Jubilee Green at 7am on 1st May to
set up the "bacon buttie" stall for the Car Boot Sale.
With the rain pouring down and no other contenders to brave the
weather and set up stalls, they beat a hasty retreat to the
warmth of their firesides.
Forthcoming events:
Tuesday 9th May: Church Mice, All Saints' Church 2-3pm
Tuesday 16th May: Age Concern Pop-in, Small Hall, 2-4pm
WING
NOTES
26 APRIL 2006
ANN WEIGHT
Wing WI raised their
glasses last week to toast a fellow member, who was celebrating
her 80th birthday. HM the Queen is a member of the Sandringham
branch of the WI and the ladies of Wing were pleased to celebrate
with her. Afterwards the speaker, Mr Bignell, gave a slide show
of Aylesbury Vale. Some of the views were stunning, taken in
snow, at sunrise and at sunset. His knowledge and understanding
of his environment, interspersed with anecdotes and tales of the
past, were fascinating.
Parish Council
There is usually little public participation during the agenda
item set aside for it, but this was the exception that proves the
rule. Most of us will have noticed the dwelling units being
squeezed into tiny plots of land around the village and might
have thought back to a time when the planning authority would
have rejected such things out of hand. If any further proof of
the changes in planning were needed the 2 ladies from Burcott
gave a telling example. Outline planning permission for a 25 m2
bungalow on a site to the east of the High Street has existed for
30 years and an application was made for a 90 m2 (land cover) 2
story house. Not surprisingly, some may think, it was rejected
because it would have been out of keeping with that part of the
village and conditions on any future application were imposed.
The next application, 2 storey house covering 70 m2, was approved
despite being significantly larger than the outline permission
and there was an amendment before the Council to increase the
size to cover 98 m2 - larger even than the original application.
Not surprisingly this idea met with little enthusiasm! One
wonders at the logic which is now applied to planning and whether
the planners ever look at the effects on the character of the
location.
Planning was definitely a theme last Tuesday because the second
important item was traffic management in the village linked to
the opening of the Linslade by-pass. The consultation last year
was taken very seriously. Some 20 measures will be taken up to
manage traffic flow and there is an intention to complete those
directly affecting the A418 before the by-pass opens in the
spring or summer of next year. Details will be on the BCC web
site soon.
Road planning item 2 was the Wing by?pass. The consultation
period will start on 7 Jun, when the County Council will present
what it believes are the practical options, and continue for 16
weeks. We will be asked for our comments and have the opportunity
to discuss and present alternatives at the presentation or later.
In order to help the debate the Parish Council plans to hold a
forum, probably on the 6th of July, at which villagers can
express their opinions.
The last item for mention this week is the meeting of the Dormer
Trust, which will be held on Saturday 6 May in the Cock Inn by
the dart board. Details are on the village notice boards.
Forthcoming events:
Tuesday 2nd May: Carnival AGM, Small Hall, 8pm.
Friday 5th, Saturday 6th May, Wing Players, 2 one-act plays, Wing
Hall not suitable for young children.
WING
NOTES
20TH APRIL 2006
ANN WEIGHT
I must apologise for
the lack of Wing Notes last week. The Bank Holiday caught up on
me and my column was sent in a day late. I promise to be more
alert next week.
I hope that I can put forward information from all sides about
the controversial issue of the pharmacy. I have identified 4
aspects of the situation: the premises, the existing facilities,
the advantages of having a pharmacy and the preferences of the
residents themselves. I will try to address them all in turn.
First of all, there is the question of the premises, which stood
empty for about a year following the renovation of the village
store. An empty shop would become both an eyesore and an
attraction for vandalism. There was some other half-hearted
interest in the premises but no positive interest other than from
the pharmacy.
As I reported 3 weeks ago the doctors were not in favour of
removing the dispensing facilities from their surgeries. They
feel that patients receive individual care, under the close
supervision of their own medical practitioners when the
prescriptions are dispensed on site. There is also the financial
support that the dispensary provides towards the extra services
offered by the practices.
I have spoken to a member of the pharmacy, who feels that they
can offer extra help in the form of proprietary medicines and
lifestyle advice on matters such as smoking and diet. They can
take the workload off the doctors and, indeed, the government is
in favour of everyone having access to a pharmacy. Wing pharmacy
does offer to collect and deliver prescriptions for the
housebound. They, too, keep individual records and intend to work
in conjunction with GPs with regular contact between them.
Fourthly, there are Wing residents. Having asked for your
comments I can say that I have not yet spoken to anyone in favour
of the change, apart from one person, who did not fully
understand the restrictions involved. The opinion of most seems
to be "if it ain't broke, why fix it!" Having just gone
to Milton Keynes for dental care today, I wonder myself if a
dentist wouldn't have been a positive facility instead.
Cash boost for local groups
Local community groups will be able to apply for a share of
£120,000 made available through Aylesbury Vale District
Council’s grants scheme. Grants up to £5000 are available
to the district’s voluntary and community groups to support
projects and activities which respond to community needs.
Money is allocated for a wide range of purposes including
improvements to community facilities and buying new equipment.
Grants awarded over the past year have included:
· £5000 to support Soundstudio, a project which provides music
and activities for young people across Aylesbury Vale
· £5000 towards new equipment for the children’s
playground in Aston Abbotts
· £3000 towards the cost of replacing Wendover Action
Group’s community car – a service provided for people
who are unable to use or don’t have access to other forms of
transport
The next deadline for grant applications is 12 May 2006. Anybody
interested in finding out more about the grants or how to make an
application should call 01296 585186 or email
grants@aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk
Congratulations are sent to Harry Ayries and his wife, Iris, who
are celebrating their Diamond Wedding this week. Iris says that
it hardly seems longer than yesterday.
WING
NOTES
13 APRIL 2006
ANN WEIGHT
"Those April
showers, that come my way......", so the song goes. But it
doesn't say that they were snow showers! And any Easter bunnies
with common sense should be staying well tucked-up in their
burrows. However, when you read this, the Easter Bank Holiday
will be over and we can look forward to the early May holiday
with hopes of better weather. And Wing is certainly the place to
be for that weekend!
First of all Overstone School is hosting another event, a
"Nearly New and Indulgence Evening". For a night of
pampering and shopping on Friday 28th April, phone 01296 682520,
tickets £3 in advance and £4 on 28th. I can personally
recommend it after the event last year. Go in feeling nearly new
and come out feeling indulged.
All Saints' Church will have their Flower Festival taking place
over the whole Bank Holiday weekend, along with many other
attractions. The flower displays are on the theme of book titles.
On Saturday afternoon there will be a display of Morris Dancing
with a musical concert in the evening. On Sunday there will be a
Festival Choral Evensong with Linslade Singers, and on Monday a
family day with a maypole and teddy tumbling from the tower
(that's abseiling or parachuting, not throwing them off!) There
will be guided tours of the church over the whole weekend, with
refreshments and produce stalls.
On Sunday 30th April the Tennis Club will host an Open Day. Phone
01296 681059 or 681207 for more details.
And what would the May Bank Holiday in Wing be without the giant
Car Boot Sale? The sale opens at 9am and pitches cost £6.
Later that week Wing Players are staging 2 one-act plays but I
have been asked to mention that these plays explore topical
issues that are more controversial than Wing Players usually
tackle. Parents may prefer not to take younger members of the
family along.
The WEA trip to Kensington Palace on 6th May promises to be a
very good day out, with the same guide, who took the excursion to
Hampton Court. At only £25, (£23 for concessions), for coach,
entry and guide, it is a very reasonably priced trip to London.
Bookings must be made by 21st April, tel 01296 688193. The coach
leaves Wing at 8.30am.
Yet again there was a traffic problem on the junction by the
Almshouses, when a lorry was stuck on the bollards by Park Gate.
County Councillors are attempting to press the matter of the
realignment of these bollards.
A warning from Trading Standards: If you receive a card through
your door from a company call PDS (Parcel Delivery Service)
saying that they have a parcel awaiting delivery instructions and
can you contact them on 0906 6611911 DO NOT call the number as
this is a mail scam originating from Belize If you call the
number and you start to hear a recorded message you will already
have been billed £15 for the phone call. If you do receive a
card with these details, then please contact Royal Mail Fraud on
02072396655 or ICTIS at <http://www.icstis.org.uk/> or your
local standards office. .
Other forthcoming events:
Thursday 20th April: Wing WI, "Around the Vale of
Aylesbury", competition- "a duck". Small Hall
7.30pm.
Monday 24th April: Buzzard Flyers, knitting and spinning group,
Wing Library, 8pm.
Tuesday 25th April: Church Mice, All Saints' Church, 2-3pm.
WING
NOTES
6 APRIL 2006
ANN WEIGHT
As promised, I have
to report one phone call in support of the new pharmacy.
Unfortunately the caller did not understand the implication of
the facility on the doctors' dispensaries or the regulation that
forbids the use of dispensaries for those living within a mile of
a pharmacy. Since the caller was registered with a Leighton
Buzzard practice, rather than a Wing doctor, they, too, will be
affected and no longer allowed to use the Leighton dispensary. I
have been at pains to report facts here and have spoken to one of
the village practitioners. There is obviously a financial
implication involved as well as the convenience for patients. The
financial support of the dispensaries goes some way to supporting
extra hours in the practices, which will have to be tailored to
comply with new constraints. The doctors have appealed for a
process of "gradualisation" in the loss of the
dispensing facilities. The Primary Care Trust has allowed 3
months but the doctors are appealing to the Family Health Service
for a 9 month period. In the initial stages 650 village
households, over half, wrote letters against the opening of a
pharmacy and none wrote in favour. The doctors believe in the
safety of the existing system, where medicines are dispensed on
the premises where records are kept, but the NHS is in favour of
the new system. A representative of Jardine's pharmacy has asked
to put forward their point of view and I will be able to report
that in 2 weeks.
It seems that spring has eventually decided to arrive and with it
the daffodils are making an impressive display around the
village. With Easter fast approaching I can list the services at
All Saints' Church:
Thursday 13th April, Maundy Thursday, 7.30pm: Last Supper, a meal
of bread and soup followed by Holy Communion.
Friday 14th April, Good Friday, 10-10.30am: Children's Good
Friday
2pm: Last Hour, meditations and readings
Sunday 16th April, Easter Day 10am: Easter Communion
WING
NOTES
30 MARCH 2006
ANN WEIGHT
Parish Council
Members of the public raised 2 matters at the start of the
meeting. One was an update on the situation relating to the
pharmacy and the doctors' dispensaries and the other was a
planning matter, which was discussed in full later. The doctors
have lodged an appeal against the opening of the pharmacy on the
grounds that it was done with insufficient notice and whilst the
appeal is in progress it appears that dispensing to villagers may
continue, at least until 12th April. Circumstances may change and
you should check that this is correct when you visit the surgery.
Further information was given about the changes in legislation,
which are effective on 1st April and which would have protected
the dispensing rights of our practices. There was then much talk
of alternatives such as the Internet and the Boots and Lloyds
home delivery services.
Under the general heading of planning, work will start soon to
place bollards at Park Gate Corner to stop lorries driving over
the pavement next to the Alms Houses. The corner should be
remodelled before the end of this year. Then there were the plans
for the new sports hall for Cottesloe School, which had a mixed
reception - enthusiastic endorsement of the improvement to
facilities but some reservations about the modern design. There
was no doubt at all about the proposed development in Moorlands
Crescent. Objections had been raised already by the residents and
there was an impassioned statement from a member of the public at
the beginning of the meeting. Whilst the Government supports
'infill', the view of the Council was that using a shoe-horn was
a step too far; especially as it would exacerbate the parking and
traffic problems, and could, by successive applications, turn a
street of semi-detached housing into a terrace, without the style
of Bath.
And for the closing headlines; a further warning from Trading
Standards to NEVER give your bankcard details to anyone
pretending to be from the bank - it knows your account details
and does not need to know your PIN! The Football Club is raising
money to renovate the Club House - a worthy cause - and some good
news for the Parish Plan, a government grant is available to
support the work. The next stage is a "Sports"
consultation. It would be nice to think that the pessimism
expressed about the spirit of sports co-operation would prove to
be unfounded. There's a sports challenge!
On Friday there will be a public meeting for villagers to have
their say on any matters that concern them, with representation
from the NHS, AVDC, Thames Valley Police and Bucks Co Council.
Come along to voice your concerns and ask for clarification on
matters that are important to you. We don't have the right to
moan if we don't do take positive action when the opportunity is
provided.
Forthcoming events:
Friday 7th April: Public meeting, Wing Hall, 7.30-9pm
Sunday 9th April: Palm Sunday procession with donkeys, starting
at Littleworth-Moorlands junction at 9.30am, for service in All
Saints' at 10am.
WING
NOTES
23 MARCH 2006
ANN WEIGHT
I would not like the
residents of Wing to be under the misapprehension that I
considered the opening of the pharmacy in the High Street as
"good news", as reported last week. Those were not my
words. In fact, I hope that the rest of my article made it
obvious that I was of the opposite opinion. As I promised to
report at the time, I have had no phone calls in its support. The
number remains the same, 01296 688750, if you wish to report your
approval of its opening.
Wing WI heard a talk from Paul and Diane Weir about the making of
willow baskets. They arrived with a huge number of varied
baskets, which members were later able to purchase. After tea
there was a quiz. Wing WI may have to draw up a waiting list to
join if there is a rush for membership with the 1st ladies in the
land as members of the organisation, sadly not of Wing.
Trading Standards have had enquiries concerning emails received
by members of the public. The emails purport to be from banks,
requiring details of bank accounts, passwords and personal
information. The majority of people realise these are scam emails
and delete them without opening them, which is the right thing to
do. Your internet providers should provide online protection and
advice on scam emails. Ensure you visit and update your email
system from your internet providers' online protection pages
regularly. The banking industry has developed a website to inform
and assist the general public: http://www.banksafeonline.org.uk/
The Office of Fair Trading has issued an alert about a group of
Dutch salesmen who are denying consumers their rights in their
sales of kitchenware on consumers' doorsteps. The salesman target
consumers at their homes or places of business. They claim that
they are passing through the local area, having attended a trade
fair, and are trying to sell the remains of their unsold stock of
allegedly 'high quality' knives and saucepans to avoid paying
duty or because of problems with border security. In fact, the
OFT has obtained evidence that these salesmen are visiting the UK
for weeks at a time, renting out space in caravan parks to use as
a base then driving out to target consumers in affluent and rural
areas across the country. For more information:
http://www.oft.gov.uk/News/Press+releases/2006/45-06.htm
Fortunately, we have had no reports that they are in our area
yet.
"Trickster" is a community musical to combat
distraction burglary. The show is about a man called George, his
wife Mary and his war time friend, Sydney, who has recently
become a victim of distraction burglary. The performance draws on
a time when people were returning from the war having risked
their lives for freedom and asks why some now fear crime when
they are older.
See the musical on Tuesday 18th April at The Hub (Union Baptist
Church) Easton Street, High Wycombe, 9.30am - 1pm. with free tea,
coffee, biscuits and lunch.
Tickets are being snapped up very quickly. Please call 01296
382910 to book
Trading standards are continually looking at the way they do
things in order to bring about mprovements. Part of this involves
awareness of the current legislation and advice on issues
regarding livestock. To enable them to promote this service, it
is important to gather as much information about livestock kept
in the county. They are currently conducting a survey of poultry
keepers within the county. Whether you keep poultry for
commercial purposes or just as pets you should register yourself
as a poultry keeper so that you can be updated with urgent issues
should they occur. Poultry registration form are available online
http://www.buckscc.gov.uk/trading_standards/animal_health/poultry_vrs.htm
Forthcoming events:
Tuesdat 28th March: Parish Council, Small Hall, 8pm
Wednesday 29th March, Senior Citizens' Lunch Club, Wing Hall, 12
o' clock
WING
NOTES
16 MARCH 2006
ANN WEIGHT
Do we want a pharmacy
in Wing? Do we need a pharmacy in Wing? Both doctors' surgeries
have their own dispensaries, which provide prescriptions very
conveniently, but we will soon not be able to use these, if we
live within 1 mile of the nearest pharmacy. This will mean
walking to the pharmacy after seeing the doctor, quite a trek for
elderly or disabled. If there is anyone out there, who is in
favour of having a pharmacy please phone me (01296 688750) and I
will report next week how many calls I have.
Still on the health theme, the Baby Clinic is in need of a
volunteer for one Thursday a month for one hour from 10-11am in
the Village Hall. Duties include weighing the babies and helping
with paperwork, qualifications: a bit of spare time, an interest
in the community and enjoyment of being with children. There must
be some deprived "Grannies" out there, whose children
refuse to provide the grandchildren, and whose grandmaternal
instincts are not being fulfilled. Come and enjoy a friendly
relaxed atmosphere, whilst helping the community. If you can help
phone one of the health visitors (01296 663784).
Although the CAA (Civil Aviation Authority) has decided not to
route planes over Leighton Buzzard, no such reprieve is at hand
for the Bucks villages. From 11th May 70 planes per day will fly
over Cheddington, Mentmore and Pitstone at a height of 3000 to
5000 ft. This is planned to increase by 40% by 2010, with a
prospect of 100 planes per day as the airport expands. If you
wish to make your views known phone Sir Beville Stanier (01908
501738) or Richard Hiscock (01296 585156).
Forthcoming events:
Tuesday 21st March: Age Concern Pop-in, Small Hall, 2-4pm
Church Mice, All Saints' Church, 2-3pm
Saturday 25th March: All Saints' Quiz, Village Hall 7.45-10.15pm.
Tickets £2, 01296 688265
Tuesday 28th March: Parish Council, Small Hall, 8pm
WING
NOTES
9 MARCH 2006
ANN WEIGHT
The congregation of
All Saints' Church warmly welcomed the Revd Joseph Stock last
Sunday. Revd Stock, a native Floridian, is visiting the Benefice
of Wing, Wingrave, Aston Abbotts and Cublington for 4 weeks,
whilst Revd Siv Tunnicliffe enjoys 4 weeks of warmer weather on
exchange in Florida. Joe is a former pastor of the United Church
of Christ in Ormond Beach and, although he is now retired, still
fulfils relief duties in the area. He trained at the Vanderbilt
Divinity School in Nashville, Tennessee where he met his wife,
Corrinne. After 28 years as army chaplain, when he served in
Vietnam, Korea and Panama, as well as military bases in the USA,
he settled back in his home state of Florida.
During their visit to England, arranged and hosted by Wing
resident, Winston Churchill, himself a Floridian, Joe and
Corrinne hope to visit Raunds in Northamptonshire, the home of
Joe's great grandfather, who emigrated in 1878 and homesteaded in
Florida. Joe was proud to say that All Saints is by far the
oldest church wherein he has preached.
While on the subject of All Saints, remember the Quiz Night on
25th March. Tickets cost £2, telephone 01296 688265, bring your
own refreshments and light snacks.
Wing WI meet on Thursday for a talk and demonstration on willow
basket making, the competition a flower arrangement in a basket.
In preparation for the group meeting at Wingrave will members
please bring a very small "treasure" to go in our
treasure chest. This will be the last chance before the group
meeting.
Forthcoming events:
Wednesday 15th March: Senior Citizens' Lunch Club, Wing Hall, 12
o' clock
Thursday 16th March: WI, Small Hall, 7.30pm
Sunday 19th March: Sunday School, 9.45 am, Cottesloe School youth
club.
Tuesday 21st March: Age concern Pop-in, Small Hall, 2-4pm
Church Mice, All Saints' Church, 2-3pm
WING
NOTES
2 MARCH 2006
ANN WEIGHT
Highlights from the
Parish Council
Vandalism continues to be of concern particularly because it
degrades the quality of the environment in the village and, of
course, costs money to put right. Problems vary from graffiti to
wanton destruction. The Council agreed that villagers should be
made aware of the costs in the hope that it would inspire some
civic pride and duty.
Things are moving forward on the Parish Plan with the preparation
of a questionnaire survey to find out what villagers want from
their village and its environs. So far the Plan has not attracted
the attention it deserves and, in consequence, it has been
impossible to tap into government aid. This will be a chance to
show Central Government that we care by returning the forms. News
of publication when I get it.
A few meetings ago the matter of youth facilities was brought up
and there was much discussion about skate board and BMX style
facilities, which are, unfortunately, both costly and subject to
swings in popularity. Sometimes they are wanted, sometimes not.
The idea of a Youth Shelter was raised as a place where people
could get together out of the wind and rain and the types of
shelter and their cost are being investigated.
Although not strictly a matter for the Village, the increase in
parking charges in Aylesbury will have an effect on those working
in the Town. Charges double, from £4 to £8 from 3 April, which
will make the bus financially more attractive - if only there
were more!
Forthcoming events:
Tuesday 7th March: Church Mice, for pre-school children, parents
or carers, All Saints Church, 2-3pm
Wednesday 8th March: Body sculpting with Kim, Wing Hall,
7.30-8.30pm
Thursday 9th March: Stretch and relaxation, Small Hall,
11.30am-12.30
Friday 10th March: Line Dancing, Wing Hall from 9.30am. Tel 01908
392737
Saturday 11th March: Wingrave Singers at All Saints' Church with
music and poetry for Lent and Holy Week, 7.30pm. Tickets at door.
Monday 13th March: Buzzard Flyers, knitting and spinning group,
Wing library, 8pm.