Loddon Valley Link 201503 - March 2015

The Loddon Valley Link
Church and Village Magazine

for Sherfield-on-Loddon, Stratfield Saye,
Hartley Wespall with Stratfield Turgis and Bramley
Issue 476
March 2015
www.Loddonvalleylink.org.uk
Page 2
Editorial
Welcome to the March edition of the Loddon Valley Link.
Im sat in the sunshine of what feels like an early spring.
For those of you lucky enough to still have their mothers with them
dont forget the 15th. For the rest of
Contents
us we can remember with love.
Editorial
P3
Were saying goodbye to one of
Church
Services
P4&6
our most respected residents Messy
Church
P7
James Russell - in the centre
Register
&
Lent
Services
P9
pages plus theres the usual
Pastoral
Letter
P 11
plethora of things going on.
Stratfield Saye Reports
P 17
Easter weekend looks like an arty Borough Councillors Report P 19
affair with a couple of local
Probus & CSR Reports
P23
exhibitions.
Gardening Club
P 25
Prayers
P 28
Just to reinforce their appeal on
James
Russell
P 30
P50, if you can spare any time to
Sherfield
Village
Hall
P 33
help with the organisation of the
P39
wonderful local events please get NWR
Sherfield
Parish
Council
P 41
in touch.
SPCC
P 44
As ever, please keep your articles Poem
P47
and especially photographs
Beat Reports
P48
coming in, as they are vital to the Help Run Events
P 50
success of your magazine. This
Useful Numbers
P 55
months cover photo is from
Small Adverts
P 56
Andrew Dance.
Committee and Deadlines
P 58
Sincere apologies to the Sims
family for our publishing error in the Parish Registers, Funerals section
in last months Link. Were happy to report Charles Sims is alive.
editor@loddonvalleylink.org.uk
Congratulations to local councillor
& PPC - Ranil Jayawardena
Im delighted to report that daughter
Daisy arrived on 13th February.
Alison and daughter are both doing
well.
Page 3
Services
March 2015
Sunday 1st March
Lent 2
10.00am
Holy Communion with the

Bishop of Basingstoke
10.00am Family Service
11.45am Meet & Greet the Bishop
Wednesday 4th 11.00am Lent Communion
St Leonards Sherfield
St Marys Stratfield Saye*
St Marys Hartley Wespall
Sunday 8th March
Lent 3
10.00am Morning Worship & Sunday Club

Friday 13th 4.15pm Messy Church
Sherfield Community Centre
Sunday 15th March
Mothering Sunday
10.00am Family Communion

6.30pm
Evensong
Sunday 22nd March
Lent 4
Lent 5
10.00am Family Service

Sunday 29th March
Palm Sunday
10.00am
Benefice Holy Communion

with Palm Sunday Procession
Maundy Thursday 7.00pm
St Leonards Church Room
Agape Supper with Holy Communion
Good Friday 11.00am Hour at the Cross
Sunday 5th April
10.00am
10.00am
11.30am
EASTER DAY
Family Communion with Lenten Cross St Leonards Sherfield

Family Communion by Ext
Holy Communion BCP
St Marys Stratfield Saye*
*Drive up close to the white gates, which will open automatically. Children are welcome at all our services. Services in italics are particularly geared to children and
families. BCP - Book of Common Prayer.
Page 4
Page 5
BREACH LANE CHAPEL

Sherfield on Loddon
Geoff Belsham 01256 882534 / 07519 708416
Transport is available for all events at the chapel
March 2015 Services

Sunday 1st
Tuesday 3
Sunday 8
rd
th
Tuesday 10th
Thursday 12
th
10.30am
Family Worship led by Neil Owen
11am
Youth Group The Flock
7.45pm
Deacons Meeting at Frimley Road
10.30am
Family Worship led by Graham Locke
2pm
Church Walk from the Chapel
7.45pm
House Group & Bible Study at 9 Coopers Lane,

Bramley
Open Morning at the Chapel
Friday 13th
10.30am
Sunday 15th
10.30am
Tuesday 17th
7.45pm
Family Worship led by Neil Owen with Holy

Communion
Church Meeting at Frimley Road
10.30am
Family Worship led by Steve Smith
Tuesday 24th
2pm
Church Walk starting at Sherfield Garden Centre
Wednesday
25th
Friday 27th
2.30pm
Midweek Fellowship at Chapel led by Geoff

Belsham
Open Morning at Chapel
Sunday 22
nd
Saturday 28
Sunday 29th
Friday 27
th
10.30am
th
10.30am
Saturday Fellowship in the Chapel led by Geoff

Belsham
Family Worship led by Geoff Belsham
10.30am
Open Morning at Chapel
2.30pm
St Leonards Open Days

Everyone is
welcome to visit for
reflection, prayer,
or to view with a
wedding in mind.
The church is open
in March on the 7thand 14th.
Page 6
Catholic Services
St Bedes and Holy
Ghost Churches,
Basingstoke.
Parish Office
Tues to Friday
9.30 am-1.00 pm
Tel.465214.
Sunday Mass 9.00 am, 11.00 am
and 6.30 pm
Friday 13th
March 2015
I Love You Mum!
Lots of craft, worship and tea for the children! All welcome
4.15 Arrive, Register, prepare for Worship
4.30 Worship followed by activities in three groups
5.15 Meal - cafe style (finish at 5.30pm)
It is essential that you book (and please advise of any food allergies).
For more information and to book, please contact :

Amanda Prince
01256 880733
amanda-prince4@hotmail.com
Or on Facebook : Messy Church-Sherfield On Loddon
St Leonards Annual Parochial Church Meeting will be held on
Sunday 22nd March 2015 at 11.30am in the Church Room.
All welcome.
ALL THINGS BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL

St. Leonards faithful hardworking cleaning teams
continue to keep our church looking lovely and
welcoming and they deserve our thanks.
We would welcome new recruits so please consider
volunteering it is not a huge commitment but it is a
great way of helping our church maintain its appeal to our local
community, especially now we have our new extension up and running.
Our new rota is due to be organised. We are meeting on Monday 11th
May at 7:45pm in the new church room, followed by coffee/tea and
cakes.
For more information contact Valerie Burrows on 01256 880087 or email
StL@avbur.demon.co.uk
Page 7
Page 8
Parish Registers
Funeral
Betty Banister
16.01.15
Sherfield
Correction to February Parish Register

Funeral
Philip Donald Sims
21.01.15
Sherfield
Sincere apologies to the Sims family and especially Charles for getting it
wrong last month
On Wednesdays in Lent there will be a short service
of Holy Communion at 11.00 a.m. at St. Leonards
.....it would be good to see you at these brief reflective
services as we prepare for Easter. Wed. 4 th, 11th 18th
and 25th of March
Join us at one of our Special Services this Easter!

29 March PALM SUNDAY
10.00 a.m. at St. Leonards
Benefice Holy Communion
with Palm Sunday Procession
2nd April MAUNDY THURSDAY

7.00 p.m.
in St. Leonards Church Room
Agape Supper with
Holy Communion
3rd April GOOD FRIDAY
11.00am
Hour at the Foot of the Cross
at St. Marys Hartley Wespall
5th April EASTER DAY
10.00 a.m.
Family Communion, with the
Floral Lenten Cross
at St. Leonards
Page 9
GARDEN MACHINERY
SERVICES
Servicing
Repairs
Tuning
Adjustment
Sharpening
Miles Elliott
Turgis Green
Phone/Fax: 01256 882224

Mobile:07810573479
E-mail: miles.elliott@btinternet.com
Spring is on its way
Page 10
Pastoral Letter
When was the last time that your opinion was canvassed about anything? As the
General Election approaches, the likelihood increases of being stopped in the
street or summoned to our doorsteps to answer questions. I'm wondering what
response I'd get if I was to conduct a small survey of members of St Leonard's
as they left this week's Sunday service, asking them how they view this time of
the Church year - or indeed from anyone else that I happened to bump into
whilst in the queue at the Post Office or Village Shop. We are now in the season
of Lent which begins each year on Ash Wednesday. Pancakes have been
tossed and eaten and for those who have committed to giving up chocolate,
coffee or alcohol, it still feels as if there's an awfully long way to go until Easter
Day when all those treats can be enjoyed again. So maybe it's not surprising
that for many, Lent is seen as a somewhat low and downhearted, miserable time
of restraint and denial - mirroring albeit in just a little way Jesus's period of 40
days in the wilderness when he was tempted to do things more awful than sneak
the odd packet of Maltesers into a supermarket trolley.
This thought set me wondering - maybe that's how many who wouldn't call
themselves Christians view those of us who are? Do they see us as people with
lots of 'can't's or 'shouldn't's in our lives, somehow less joyful than those who
don't have to worry about obeying all those commandments, written in an age
that is as different from today's society as it could possibly be? In fact, quite the
opposite is true - or at least it should be! For we Christians remain confident in
the knowledge that God loves us so much that He sent His Son to die for us,
and so we can look forward to eternal life with Him. Therefore whatever life may
throw at us (and Christians have their fair share of life challenges too, that's for
sure), we have a Father in heaven who has known us and cared for us since
before we were born. That's what we look forward to celebrating on Easter Day so far from being a time of misery I'd prefer to think about Lent as a time of
waiting, for new birth and new life.
Of course, at this time of the year signs of new life to come are all around us - as
I write this I've just seen my first daffodils in flower, the fields are ready to
welcome baby lambs and trees that just a while ago looked bare and dead are
suddenly full of green shoots and buds. Whilst at St Leonard's we wait patiently
for the appointment of our priest in charge, we have welcomed other new lives
into our Church family - it's been a real joy to celebrate the births of babies
within our community, brought by their parents for baptism. This is also the time
of the year when we celebrate and give thanks to God for our mothers and those
who mother us in other ways. We'd love you to join us on March 15 th for our
special service marking Mothering Sunday and on behalf of the congregation,
even if it is still Lent, we promise a joyful welcome!
Karen
Page 11
Start Something this

Lent!
Turn your small change into
safe water this LENT
Every minute, every day, people suffer and lives are lost
needlessly because of a lack of safe water and sanitation.
Help us end this global crisis and transform lives.
Collect a sleeve for your jar....or

get more details from Dan 01256 882680
or Sammie 0118 9816593 ...or use your
own jar!
All jars will be collected in on Easter Sunday
Lets do that! at St. Leonards Church on

Mothering Sunday, 15th March 10.00 a.m.
Page 12
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www.classictreeservices.co.uk
PHONE 01276 473118

www.ovenclean.com
Page 14
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The Garage at Sherfield

www.thegarageatsherfield.co.uk
Goddards Lane,
Sherfield-on-Loddon, HOOK, Hants. RG27 0EZ
ith
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rv d g 0
se an 3
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H ur MO
yo ur
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i ce
90% of
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Tel: 01256 882271

Mobile: 07812 939 498
Page 16
MOTs Cars and

Motorcycles
Service
Diagnostics
Repairs
Air Conditioning
Recovery
Collection and Delivery
service available.
STRATFIELD SAYE PARISH REPORT

At the recent meeting there were reports on the conditions of the local
rural roads which are still not being adequately repaired. I will be
contacting HCC to report problems but can I ask everyone to also go
online to report problems as well as the more complaints the better
chance we have of remedial action.
Oil tanks are again a target for thieves so can all residents please keep
a sharp eye out for any suspicious vehicles in the area and report
immediately to the police on 101.
The Parish Council have agreed to place another bench in the Parish
commemorating the late Duke of Wellington. Also it is hoped to put up a
new sign by the recreation ground, and potentially provide picnic tables
on the site, to encourage more local residents to use the amenity.
You may have heard about a new initiative called The Village Agent,
sponsored by Age Concern which signposts people, in particularly older
people, to find local services and information. They are currently
looking for volunteers. You would be offering a few hours per week
and be fully supported with training sessions and informal get-togethers
with other Village Agents across the county and neighbouring villages. If
you could help or want more information please telephone 01962
892443 or Free phone 08003287154 or by email
villageagent@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk.
Dont forget to come along to the monthly coffee mornings on the first
Monday of each month next 2nd March in the Village Hall at
11.00a.m. a great opportunity for a chat with neighbours and friends
and a chance to tell either myself or Suzanne Nixon of any concerns
you might have.
The next Parish Council meeting is on 2 nd March 2015 at 7.30p.m - all
are welcome it is only with your participation that the Parish Council
are informed of any problems or concerns in the Parish.
Please note the following dates:
The Parish AGM 11th May 2015 with Parish meetings on 6 th July, 5th
October and 7th December 2015
The provisional date for the Parish Christmas lunch is 15 th December
2015 and all are welcome so please keep the date free.
Please note, for those of you who cant get hold of the magazine it can
be downloaded or obtained automatically by email from the Link website
Penny Mayo, Stratfield Saye Parish Clerk
Page 17
Page 18
It has been some time since I submitted an article but hopefully

I will be able to bring you up to date with events within the
Borough Council. I hope that you all enjoyed the festive period
the weather was better than last year and we all had power!
The draft Local Plan was submitted to the Government
planning Inspector in November and his initial review resulted
in the officers re-evaluating the basic housing numbers. The Inspector
suggested that our 748 houses per annum figure may be unsound and that
we should look at a figure nearer 850. This will mean that we will need to
find space for nearly 1800 extra houses with potential constraints including
transport, general infrastructure, schools and medical facilities.
The Borough is therefore exploring various solutions. This may include
using more sites that were in the Land Assessment (SHLAA) listing and
possibly adding numbers to already proposed sites. There is one site,
Manydown, that could take many more houses but there is some resistance
to develop more than a few extra houses and even doubt as to whether the
commitment for 40% affordable homes will be honoured. No wonder that
there is a split of views amongst councillors.
So the Local plan moves on slowly, facing more public consultation and an
earliest approval date sometime in early 2016. Meanwhile developers are
free to develop where they see fit because the Government planning
guidelines are pro development, requiring us to have at least a 5-year
supply of approved housing sites and a Local Plan in place neither of
which we have. The Borough planning committee find planning reasons to
reject such applications but we lose at the appeal stage often having to
pay costs to the developer! Locally we have recently seen Minchens Lane
in Bramley approved, Razors Farm and more than likely, a site on
Chineham Business Park will follow.
Other planning news is that the Dixon road Caravan application was
rejected by the Borough planning committee; an appeal has been lodged
with Winchester City Council regarding the Bullington Cross Wind Farm
proposal and the proposed Critical Care Hospital to the west of the town is
being opposed - it is reported that even some medical professionals have
questioned its feasibility.
Closer to home I was pleased to support local village projects and report
that along with St Leonards Church extension, the Borough has approved
the funds for the Village Hall facility improvement scheme plus funds for the
enhancements of the burial ground.
Lets hope we have a lovely spring.
Chris
Please contact me on 880558 or email: cllr.chris.tomblin@basingstoke.gov.uk
Page 19
Woofs and Wellies

Sunday 19th April 2015
Starting at Home Farm, Farleigh Wallop, Basingstoke, RG25 2HX
St. Michaels Hospice is delighted to announce the return of their
popular event Woofs and Wellies for 2015, giving you the
exclusive chance to walk around the exquisite grounds of the Earl
of Portsmouth. Registration at
www.stmichaelshospice.org.uk/events
Alternatively call the Fundraising Hotline on 01256 848848
Follow all the latest updates on;
Twitter @smhbasingstoke #WoofsandWellies15
Facebook (St. Michaels Hospice North Hampshire)
5K and 10K Run

Wednesday 13th May
2015
Make a difference. Go the
distance!
Starting at Down Grange Sports Complex, Pack Lane,
Basingstoke, RG22 5SN
St. Michaels Hospice (North Hampshire) welcomes the family
5 & 10K Basingstoke Run to Down Grange Sports Complex,
Basingstoke on 13th May starting at 19.00hrs.
To sign up and for more information please visit the Hospice website:
stmichaelshospice.org.uk/events or call fundraising on 01256 848 848.
Follow us on Twitter @smhbasingstoke
#HospiceRun #BasingstokeRun
Page 20
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Probus hears about Microlight Flying

Kim Taylor, a Landing Site Officer
with The Queen's Helicopter
Flight, gave an illustrated
presentation on microlight flying.
The pros and cons of factory
versus home built aircraft were
examined and an in-depth
account given of Kim's own
experiences in constructing three
very different flying machines.
He also touched on how the
airworthiness aspects were addressed.
Kim reminisced how microlight flying had led him on adventures over the
past few years. Besides the simple fun of flying from airstrips and
airfields he has toured extensively and been involved with rallies all over
the UK. Kim's finest event was organising the 'Help for Heroes' flypast
over Wootton Bassett in 2010. This was a tribute to the armed services
and to the people of the town itself. It involved one hundred and forty
aircraft and raised over 3000.
www.probusbasingstoke.webs.com or ring the Secretary Paul Flint for an
informal chat on 07770 886521.
BASINGSTOKE CIVIL SERVICE RETIREMENT FELLOWSHIP

welcomed 51 members to the monthly meeting
The speaker was David Ogborn who presented a
talk Singing for Fun. He gave a history of his
own involvement with choirs in the area since
1975 which included his time with the
Basingstoke Male Voice Choir which did many
world-wide tours and eventually led to his setting
up the Festival of Choirs in 2011. Last year a
special concert A Century of War and Peace
was held at the Anvil which was a sell-out. This
involved 13 choirs and raised money for the
charity Care for Casualties.
The group meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Brookvale
Village Hall from 10-12 noon and all retired Civil Servants and their
partners are welcome. Further details about from the Secretary Tony
Brazier on 01256 418770 or at bjmapbr@ntlworld.com
Page 23
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Day or night we provide a
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Please call Terina on
0118 9821111
28 Mulfords Hill, Tadley, Hants,
RG26 3JE
www.ashbrookfunerals.co.uk
Page 24
Sherfield and District Gardening Club

On Monday 16th March we will be joined once again by
Pamela Holt. Pamela will be telling us all about Hardy
Annuals. Pamelas claim to fame is that she trained at the
Royal Botanic Gardens Kew with Alan Titchmarsh and
tutored Charlie Dimmock at Cannington College in
Somerset. She has been a horticultural lecturer for many
years and has travelled widely in South America and Alpine Europe.
Monday 20th April sees the return of Ray Broughton whose lively
talks about Soil Management, Plant Propogation and Easy Plants
for Difficult Places were very well received at previous meetings. This
time Ray will tell us about Cold Greenhouses. This talk is based on
his own observations and is backed up by years of scientific study and
practice. If its anything like his previous talks, he will have us
enthralled and scribbling notes to catch his words of wisdom. Ray was
trained at RHS Garden Wisley, is a fellow of the Institute of
Horticulture and a lecturer for the Royal Horticultural Society.
Finally, just a reminder to please pass on any of your spare plants for
Percys Plant Sale to be held on the 9 th May.
Anyone interested in gardening will be most welcome to join us at the
Sherfield Village Hall at 7:45pm.
For arrangements contact Linda on 882341 or Vanessa on 881760
To all those people who
helped me celebrate my
75th birthday so
fantastically Thank
you. I had an amazing
evening and I know it
would not have been
possible without the help
of many of you. As it was
a surprise party I do not
know the names of all the
helpers, but you know
who you are and I am
grateful to you all. Especial thanks to Natalie as co-ordinator in
England. Many, many thanks. Jane Brydges
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TEXT FOR THE MONTH John15 : 4& 5 The NIV Bible

Jesus said Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can
bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear
fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches.
If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart
from me you can do nothing.
Prayer for the Month.
Gracious God, we thank you at this time of Lent, for the example
you have shown us in Christ. Forgive us that we so rarely follow his
example.
We turn a blind eye to what we know to be wrong, even bending
the rules ourselves. We close our eyes and ears to what we would
rather not think about. We make excuses for, and seek to justify,
our faults.
Forgive us and renew us through your Spirit, restore us through
your love, equip us with your power and so enable us to live
faithfully as your people.
In Jesus name we pray. Amen
Prayer Points for March
Give thanks for the signs of Spring as we enjoy flowers
appearing again in our gardens and along the hedge
rows.
Pray for those who are recovering illness and for those
undergoing debilitating treatment and facing an uncertain future.
Pray that the Holy Spirit will calm their fears and help them to trust
in you.
Pray all who mourn the loss of a loved family member, may they
know your love and be able to trust in you to bring them through
this time of sorrow
Pray for peace in Syria and Iraq and for Ukraine, may all countries
where violence and terror cause so many to live in fear each day
be able to come to peace. Pray for world leaders to take forward
the peace processes in these countries.
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James Russell - obituary

James Cecil Cumine Russell of Aden, CBE died at home on 3rd
January 2015 after a short illness, aged 81.
James Cecil Cumine Russell
was a soldier, lawyer,
politician and devoted
supporter of Hartley Wespall
church whose shrewd mind,
courtly charm
and thunderclap
of a laugh helped
and heartened people in so many walks of life.
It was characteristic of a man who had been such
a pillar of Hartley Wespall since moving to the
village in 1973 with his wife, Diana, that he read a
powerful lesson in St Mary's at last year's
Christmas carol service, just a few days after he
had learned that he had "a spot of bother with
cancer".
He was in church again on Christmas Day, nine
days before he died, proudly sporting his Highland
bonnet, a testament to his Scottish roots which
meant so much to him. He confided later he was
even more proud to be flanked by Diana, their three
children and their families, for he was very much a
family man.
Page 30
Born in June 1933 in Old Deer, Aberdeenshire, he served in the

Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders for a decade and was then
a lawyer in London, becoming senior partner of his firm.
He was an assiduous Conservative Party organiser, rising to
become party chairman for Wessex Area. He and Diana were
blown out of their beds in the Grand Hotel at the party
conference in 1988. He was awarded the CBE
for his political work and for public service.
In his 41 years in Hartley Wespall he did a long
stint as church warden and parish councillor,
and at different times preached, rang the bells,
and led a church choir. He died on January 3rd
at home, after spending his last days with his
family and his labrador, Sky - as he wanted.
Alec Russell
James & team building the jubilee beacon
He will be fondly remembered by the whole community. Ed.

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Village Hall Matters

Sherfield on Loddon Village Hall
Reg. Charity No. 272385
Tel: 01256 883624
Email:
info@sherfieldvillagehall.co.uk
BARN DANCE
The Village Barn Dance at the end of January was another sell out and a
super evening for all ages. There's nothing like live music and a friendly
atmosphere to get things going and with an experienced 'caller' to lead the
way, even the most shy people were encouraged to join in. The event was
run as a fundraiser by The Friends of Sherfield Village Hall. Next year,
please note do book early to avoid disappointment!
LIDDELL HALL KITCHEN

We will be refurbishing the Liddell Hall kitchen during February. The Village
Hall Management Committee apologises for any disruption that the work
may have caused, particularly to the regular users of the Hall. However, we
hope that the disruption will have been kept to a minimum.
ZUMBA CLASSES
Zumba classes are starting on Thursday evenings in the main hall 7-8pm
from 26th February. Any fitness level welcome and the first class is free!
Contact Kim on 07787 506112.
.
THE HALL GARDEN

The Village Hall Management Committee would again like to thank Roger
Rivers for all his hard work in tending the garden and, most recently, the
restocking and care of the planters. The garden, which is fully enclosed,
has lovely views over the Village Green, is ideal for hiring out for parties
and wedding receptions, and is also very important to the Happy Faces
Nursery.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

Sat 14th March Coffee morning
Sat 14th March Quiz Night
For more information on activities, events & booking the hall, visit:
www.sherfieldvillagehall.co.uk
At the heart of our community for over 100 years
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For information call: 0118 932 6308 Brochure hotline: 0118 932 6480
www. wellington-riding.co.uk e-mail: info@wellington-riding.co.uk
Page 36
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Our Favourite Things

Our favourite things was the topic of
our recent meeting things which cheer
us up over the winter, although some of
us didnt latch on to the winter element
and spoke about our favourite things generally. As far as
cheering ourselves up over winter was concerned, many
spoke about various pleasant smells, new buds and spring
flowers, a hot bath, a lovely scarf and hat, furry winter boots, a
peat fire, cold frosty mornings when everything sparkles, and
roast dinners, a roaring fire and long walks with the dog.
More general favourite things included an appreciation of the
English countryside and one members love of bluebell woods
which featured in one of her lovely paintings and also in some
poetry. Some us brought objects/family heirlooms such as
semi-precious earrings, a grandmothers
treasured her
brooch, Art Deco bottles, intricate cross-stitch
husbands
pictures, miniature clogs, a bookmark from
credit card!
Raffles Hotel in Singapore with the recipe for
Singapore Sling, an old doll and a Sooty
puppet! Books and photos were mentioned quite a few times
and on a sad note (but with some happiness) a stone from a
beach where a members son died. Someone owned up to a
slight obsession with puffins, those cheeky clown-looking
seabirds which inhabit some beautiful cliff faces around our
coast. She brought a small painting of one on driftwood, a
beanie toy puffin, and pictures of them on a drinks tray! As
for drinks, one loved her cup of tea or five a day whilst another
appreciated the odd glass of sherry. Last, but not least, one
member treasured her husbands credit card!
We really enjoyed this fun, light-hearted evening to start off our
year. Our next meeting is entitled Whats wrong with being a
dinosaur? a discussion on technology and social media.
Gill
Page 39
No WI report this month as the Ladies were out at

their Annual lunch.
Basingstoke Childrens Centres

Your local Childrens Centres are based in:
Chineham, Popley, Oakridge and Lychpit.
To access our current timetable or to register your interest in an
activity, please visit our website at:
services.actionforchildren.org.uk/basingstoke-and-deane-childrenscentres/basingstoke-deane-cluster-a/whats-on/
Or please call us at Pebbles Childrens Centre on 01256 357028.
Page 40
Sherfield on Loddon Parish Council

Meeting dates
The next Full Parish Council meeting dates are 11 th March
and 8th April 2015 at 7.30pm in the Liddell Hall.
Governance Review
A report on the Governance Review will be considered by Basingstoke
and Deane Borough Council at its Full Council meeting in March.
Tree work on the Village Green
Work will be commencing shortly on trees on the Village Green.
Contractors will be working on nearly 100 trees to remove deadwood and
potentially unsafe limbs, to crown lift and crown reduce where necessary
and to remove a number of trees where overcrowding of better specimens
has occurred.
All areas where work is being carried out will be cordoned off for safety
reasons, but you should still remain vigilant and not allow your dogs or
children to stray into these areas. There is bound to be a certain amount
of disruption during the month of March and your patience and
understanding for the need to carry out this work will be very much
appreciated. Our sincere thanks to our Tree Warden, Jane Jordan, for the
considerable amount of work she has done on this project.
Karen Ross - Clerk to the Parish Council, Sherfield-on-Loddon,
PO Box 6862, Basingstoke, RG24 4QZ Telephone: 01256 842662
Email: clerk@sherfieldonloddon-pc.gov.uk
Basingstoke Ladies Choir

Concert
Sunday 26th April 2015, 3pm
St Josephs Church, St Michaels Road, Basingstoke.
With guests Berkshire Brass
Supporting the Life Charity.
Tickets 8 each (no concessions) available from:
Jan Hodges01256 781035/07771848437
Or
Chantal Brown01256 320474

Page 41
Wills Garden Services

Tel: 07951917943/01256 881354
Email: cole114@msn.com
A complete range of garden
services: Garden clearance,
Mowing, Hedgetrimming, Paving,
Pruning, Fencing, Turfing, Tree
Care
Page 42
Page 43
QUIZ NIGHT &

HOT & COLD BUFFET
Saturday 7th March
7.30pm
Tickets 8 and include food
(No minimum team numbers, but a maximum of 6)
Pre book only

Over 18s only. Licensed Bar
There are fantastic groups and classes at the centre for everyone
FOR ADULTS
Zumba, Pilates, Yoga, Kickboxing, Studio Cycling, Ballroom & Latin,
Badminton, Football
FOR CHILDREN:
Theatre4Kids, Tiny Tykes, Maths tuition, Streetdance, Monkey Music,
Ballet, Ball Skills, Football
COMMUNITY GROUPS
Fabrics & Threads, Over 55s social , Bump into Mums, Sherfield 0-5s
And our very own Puppy training School!
Details can be found on our website
SHERFEST!
YOUTH ZONE
Saturday 4th July 2015 12-8pm
Every Wednesday
Live Music, Entertainment, Sports,

Food, Bar and loads more!
School Yrs 4-6

6.157.15pm
School Yrs 7-117.309pm
All activities must be booked in advance of visit Tel: 01256 883967 or email
admin@sherfieldparkcommunity.co.uk or visit www.sherfieldparkcommunity.co.uk
Page 44
Evergreens Club contributed by May Macqueen

This month was our AGM. Jean Berntsen our chairperson/treasurer
gave the financial report for the year ending 2014 and this was
accepted by the members. There being no other candidates the
previous committee were re-elected for another year, proposed by
Brenda Monger and seconded by Gwen Hunt.
The programme for 2015 was distributed to the members present
before welcoming Peter Hayes and Pamela Darker who are members
on the planning sub committee for the Sherfield on Loddon
Neighbourhood Plan. They came to talk to us about the progress of
the plan and the vision for the future. There was also an opportunity
to raise any questions and concerns.
The meeting ended with tea and a raffle.
The next meeting on the 2nd March is a general knowledge quiz.
Friends of Sherfield Village Hall - Fundraiser
Fun Quiz Night
Saturday 14th March 2015

Enjoy local rivalry with Friends or Family or Club
Enter a team of up to Six people or come as a single
Drinks & Nibbles from the cash Bar Doors open 7pm
Tickets @ 3 per person from
01256 886550
Also see
tickets@sherfieldvillagehall.co.uk &
THE SHOP
Page 45
Page 46
Helen Burningham recently visited from Uganda

and left us with these thoughts.
I am the CMS Mission Partner living in Uganda,
Kampala that St Leonard's supports. I have a
poem that I would love to share with people that I
wrote when I was going through a difficult period
after being evacuated from the original location
that I was sent to in South Sudan (2013).
You will be stretched
So that you will strengthen
And lengthen
So when you feel the tension
Please stand still
Not moved
You will not be doomed
One day all will see
The light that shone so small
Will stand tall
No longer will I fall
And I will rest
For I will know I did my best
In all tests
And I got through it all
No longer do I need to prove myself
Or do I need to hide on the shelf
It was worth it
Endurance got me there
God held my hand so now I stand
Page 47
News from the Beats

Sherfield & Bramley Beat Report January 2015
Burglaries: Shed and Outbuilding Burglaries have decreased by two this
month. They still remain a big concern for Hampshire Constabulary and local
residents. Three offenders have been arrested. One narrowly avoided a
Prison sentence, another has been bailed pending sentencing (on an
unrelated incident) and has been placed on electronically monitored curfew to
prevent further offending. The third is still awaiting their time in court. This is a
great result and shows our communities and the offenders that we are taking
these incidents seriously. There are still many out there who would not have a
second thought about breaking into your shed and stealing your items.
Register your property for free on www.immobilize.com
Anti Social Behaviour: We have had a significant increase of ASB reports
from Longbridge Road, Bramley, it is suspected that the same group of
people are using Longbridge Road as a cut through from the German Road
Estate via the Cinder Track. While passing through, these people are
deliberately damaging the front gardens of residents by snapping tree
branches and cycling/ walking across the lawns and flower beds. They are
also knocking loudly on doors and windows late at night. There are a few
elderly residents from Longbridge Road who are frightened because of this
and will no longer answer their doors. A few will not leave their home after
5pm in fear for their own safety.
This type of behaviour is completely unacceptable and it is causing vulnerable
members of the community to fear living in their own home. It is probable that
this behaviour is a local group of youths who think they are having fun or a
laugh, however these incidents will not be tolerated and Police are increasing
the amount patrols around the area to catch these people. I would like to
encourage all residents to report any incidents of anti social behaviour to us
on 101.
Speeding: Speeding is a local beat priority and we use the information
gathered from our various Community Speedwatch Schemes (CSW) to target
where our speed enforcement operations will be carried out. PC Dean
Stickland carries out regular speed checks at various times of the day and on
occasions, invites members of CSW to observe him when he does this. If you
do not have a local CSW running or you are interested in joining your local
CSW then please dont hesitate to email me.
RSPCA Door to Door
Various reports continue to circulate as to representatives from RSPCA
making door to door calls. The local RSPCA shop has had many calls and
Page 48
(Continued on page 49)
they say that no local collections are taking place. It is said that residents
are being told that this is an awareness visit and we are not collecting,
when they have been visited by these persons. Residents are asked to be
extra vigilant.
Stats
ASB 7 Assault 5 Burglary 6 Concern for Welfare 2 Criminal Damage 2
Domestic Incidents 7 Driving Complaints 5 Missing Persons 0 Drugs 1
RTC 4 Suspicious Incidents 62 Theft 1 Theft from Vehicle 1 Other 7
Email Nathaniel.johnson.15740@hampshire.pnn.police.uk
Crime update for Chineham & Sherfield Park.
There was a spate of thefts from vehicles in the lead up to Christmas,
targeting vehicles accidentally left unlocked by their owners.
Two males have been arrested for these offences. One has appeared in
court while the other remains on bail pending conclusion of our enquiries.
Once they had been arrested the series of crimes concluded very promptly
but please make sure that you have locked your vehicle when you leave it
overnight and do not leave valuables inside.
I am pleased to finish this month's report with a good news story.
Just before Christmas a number of outdoor decorations were stolen from
Sherfield Park.
Fortunately a neighbour's CCTV captured footage of the male involved and
his vehicle. No registration could be seen, but after some enquiries I was
able to identify the vehicle and a few days later tracked down the male at
an address near Reading.
I am happy to say that the decorations, along with others he had
'appropriated' were returned to their owners in time for Christmas and he
received a hefty fine.
Email james.charlton@hampshire.pnn.police.uk
richard.strauss@hampshire.pnn.police.uk
Tel - 101 (or request to leave a message using collar numbers).
Further Afield
A few days ago in Up Nately, a blue VW Golf SE 5 door saloon reg. RV13
JYC was seen on a private driveway and made off at speed when spotted.
The owner is a convicted rural thief from Surrey who stole from an Upton
Grey farm in 2013 and was sent to Prison. He is an opportunist and will
visit homes as well as farms, please be vigilant as he has a good
knowledge of all parts of our area.
Any sightings please call Andrew REID Police Constable 3746. Preston
Candover DD: 01256 389050 HQ: 101 Mob: 07768:776844
Page 49
andrew.reid@hampshire.pnn.police.uk
Page 50
FUNERAL DIRECTORS &

MONUMENTAL MASONS.
ALEXANDER & DRY
Twenty four hour service.
Pre-paid funeral plans
available.
1 Seal Road, Basingstoke,
RG21 7NQ
Tel: 01256 844663
Contact us online
about your project
or problem bramleyplumbing.co.uk
Bramley
Plumbing
Services Ltd.
01256880853
07770851598
We install beautiful
bath and shower rooms
with care and attention
by time served,
qualified tradesmen.
We replace radiator
repairs and undertake
many smaller plumbing
jobs such as leaking
taps, toilets that wont
flush outside tap
servicing. All aspects of
domestic and small
commercial non gas
plumbing..free
estimates
Tr a d in g St a n da rd s
A p p rov ed s in ce
20 0 5
Page 51
PLUMBING & HEATING SPECIALIST

Serving the local community for 30 years
Bathrooms & shower installations
Solar thermal installations and energy-friendly controls
Gas Safe and Oftec registered for peace of mind with
29164
gas and oil installations
Telephone: 01256 882309

Email: adrian@awburt.com
YOUR LOCAL TRADE PROFESSIONAL

FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING, HEATING &
ELECTRICAL NEEDS
FOR MORE DETAILS PLEASE CONTACT US:
Tel: 01256 880044 MOBILE: 07754 554554
Email: admin@pscservices.co.uk
www.pscservices.co.uk
Page 52
Page 53
Happy
Play
Faces
group
Sherfield-on-Loddon
Bring your happy face to our
happy place
A small, friendly playgroup for

children aged 2 years 6 months to
school age
Flexible Sessions
including all day
Further information:
01256 880903
Prospectus/application form:
07791 141176
happyfacesplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk
www.happy-faces-playgroup.co.uk
Est. 1982. Charity No. 1029688

Page 54
USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS

The dialling code is 01256, unless otherwise stated.
Allotments
Basingstoke Gazette
Brownies
St. Leonards Church
Breach Lane Chapel
Catholic Church
Clift Surgery Patient Group
Cricket Club (Sherfield)
Cricket Club (ST & HW)
Evergreens
Football (Junior)
Happy Faces Playgroup
Loddon Players
Loddon Quilters
Loddon Valley Link
Lunch Club.
NWR
Police - local beat officer
Police - report an incident
Poppies
Post Office
Rainbows
Sherfield. Community Care Grp
Sherfield Fete
Sherfield Dist. Gardening Club
Sherfield Show
Short Mat Bowls
Stratfield Saye Parish Council
Stratfield Saye Village Hall
Stratfield Turgis Parish Meeting
Sherfield Parish Council
Toddler Group 0-5s
Tree Warden.
Village Green Volunteers
Whist Drive
Womens Institute
Sherfield Village Hall
Caretaker/Bookings
Management Committee
Fund Raising Committee
Bruce Batting
Chris Horton
Sue Handasyde-Dick
See inside back page
Geoff Belsham
Fr. Chris Rutledge
John Darker
Andy Stevens
Paul Baldwin
Jean Berntsen
Fred Berntsen
Peggy Hutchins
Chris Horton
Pris ORourk
(See back pages )
Helen Belsham
Gill Fearon
PC James Rickaby
Police Control Room
Natalie Larner
882605
882426
882337
882534
465214
882334
882414
881973
882798
882798
880903
882426
881839
Pam Luck
Doreen Tosswill
Bruce Batting
Linda Syckelmoore
Natalie Larner
Norman Stanley
Penny Mayo
Linda Bishop
Sheila Campbell (Chair)
Karen Ross (Clerk)
Judith Sullivan
Jane Jordan
Bruce Batting
Virgilius Vickers
Val Denny
882534
882106
07554 775429
101
880075
882210
882687
882344
882605
882341
880075
881021
01189332 379
01189332106
882351
842662
883551
880852
882605
882453
882410
Loraine Smith
Ivan Gosden
Alan Ball
883624
0794 021 2441
883838
Please inform the Editor of changes to the above information.

Page 55
SMALL ADVERTISEMENTS
HOUSE CLEANING BY MARIA. Reliable and affordable service.
Friendly, experienced lady who cleans every corner. Ironing also
available. References. Tel 07933 316989. mariacleaning@live.co.uk
SMALL ADVERTISEMENTS
LOCAL PROFESSIONAL INTERIOR and EXTERIOR DECORATOR

First class job guaranteed. Over 30 years experience. No job too small.
For a free estimate ring Ian 01256 882132 or 07876021772
SEWING, EXPERIENCED AND CONVENIENT. Di is now back in the
conservatory, Sherfield Garden Centre. Bespoke dressmaking, clothing
alterations, repairs, curtains & blinds and soft furnishings. Call Diana on
07796 045944.
PC SUPORT. For technical help with PCs, Macs, tablets, internet,
wi-fi: repairs, upgrades and installation: Call Ian on 07977 143310.
WINDOW CLEANER. Windows cleaned or gutters cleared - one off or
regularly. Local, reliable window cleaner (testimonials available). For a
quote call Pete Owen on 07762 616600 pjhcleaning@btinternet.com
INSIDE/OUT. Property maintenance, carpentry, decorating, locks fitted,
garden maintenance. Tel 01256 882696 or 07713 470223.
E-mail: rdam549@googlemail.com
LOCAL INDEPENDENT CLEANER Honest and trustworthy, excellent
service, excellent references, excellent rates. Telephone 07407543891.
LOCAL EXPERIENCED TAX ADVISER. Self assessment tax returns,
arrears, claims, payroll, self-employed, VAT returns. Initial consultation
free. Call 07920112533 or e-mail david_hitchins@msn.com
MARK COZENS EXQUISITE GARDENING Do you need a little help in
your garden? Available for weekly garden maintenance in the Sherfield
Park area. Call 07867 658599 mark_cozens@hotmail.com
DICKINSONS GARDEN AND TREE MAINTENANCE. Qualified
tree surgeon and general garden maintenance - mowing the lawn, hedge
cutting, weeding borders and soft landscaping. please contact Graeme on
07955310046 /01256880504 graemedickinson@yahoo.co.uk
MENCAP. We are recruiting in your area and would like to hear from you
if you are passionate about supporting people with a learning disability.
Visit www.latestvacancies.com/mencap or call Tracy on 07983346341
Page 56
Dates for your diary.

Stratfield Turgis Parish Annual General Meeting
Friday 15th May 2015 at 7:30 pm
In the Cricket Pavilion on Stratfield Turgis Recreation Ground.
All parishioners welcome
STRATFIELD SAYE PARISH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

MONDAY 11TH MAY 2015 AT 7.30P.M.
IN THE STRATFIELD SAYE VILLAGE HALL
All parishioners welcome
Hook Choral Society - Spring Concert

The concert will take place at 7.30 pm on
Saturday 18th April at
St Johns Church, London Road, Hook.
The Hook Choral Society Spring Concert is
entitled Serenity after a work by Ola Gjeilo
who is one of the most exciting composers
of the 21st century. The programme also
includes other beautiful and moving music from Faurs Cantique de
Jean Racine and Parrys I Was Glad to more contemporary pieces
by Arvo Prt, arguably the greatest living composer, as well as works
by Harris, Purcell, Rachmaninoff, Rheinberger and Rameau.
Tickets are 12.00 (concessions 10.00 and accompanied children
under 11 free) and will be available from Trees Newsagent, Hook or
by calling 01256 882067.
Page 57
Loddon Valley Link Management

ADVERTISING IN THIS MAGAZINE AND ONLINE
Small ads are 5 monthly for a maximum of 30 words, space
permitting. Requests are dealt with in order.
Display Ads, please contact the treasurer below.
Advertising enquiries to Pip Iles Tel. 01256 880559
advertising@loddonvalleylink.org.uk
Deadline for ads. for next edition is 10th of the month
Editor for the April edition Simon Boase

Please submit copy no later than 16th of the month
Email: editor@loddonvalleylink.org.uk
Chairman: Dr. Donald Dawson 01256 882379 (dgdawson@sky.com)
Treasurer: Pip Iles 01256 880559 (pip.ilene@tiscali.co.uk)
Secretary: Ilene Iles 01256 880559 (pip.ilene@tiscali.co.uk)
Committee:
Rev. Sammie Armstrong. 01189816593 (sc.cedars@greenbee.net)
Dr. John Williams 01256 882705 (lawnfarm@aol.com)
Eileen Leivesley 01256 882938 (eileen.leivesley@sky.com)
Germano Giugovaz 01189 332166
Claire Osborne 01256 324458 (guyclaire@tiscali.co.uk)
Simon Boase 01256 881250 (sibo999@gmail.com)
Brian Archer 01256 882099 (brianarcher@btinternet.com)
Jane Abrams 01256 881188 (jheath2226@yahoo.co.uk)
Church Officers
Priest in Charge: Vacancy
Assistant Priest: Rev. Sammie Armstrong 01189 816593 (sc.cedars@greenbee.net)
Curate: Rev. John Lenton 01256 880570 Priest responsible for Bramley & Little London
Licensed Reader: Richard Elphick 01256 882860
Licensed Reader: Dr. John Williams 01256 882705
Licensed Reader: Andrew Doggart 01256 880092
Church Admin: Lisa Goodall 01256 882788 (lgoodall.work@gmail.com)
ST. LEONARDS CHURCH, CHURCH END, SHERFIELD ON LODDON, RG27 0JB (no mail)
Churchwarden: Peter Gould 01256 882538
Churchwarden: Richard Elphick 01256 882860
Treasurer: Dan Farrow 01256 882680
Organist: Mike Abrams 01256 881188
Organist: Brian Archer 01256 882099
ST. MARYS CHURCH, STRATFIELD SAYE
Churchwarden: Dr. John Williams 01256 882705
Treasurer: Charles Atkinson 01256 882459
Organist: Dr. Gill Williams 01256 882705
ST. MARYS CHURCH, HARTLEY WESPALL
Churchwarden: Pip Iles 01256 880559
Please note: the Loddon Valley Link
Treasurer: Michael Webster 01256 882413
Management Committee cannot be held
Organist: Dr. Gill Williams 01256 82705
responsible for the reliability or quality
Organist: Andrew Doggart 01256 880092
of any goods, work or services
MESSY CHURCH, SHERFIELD PARK
in this publication.
Leader: Amanda Prince 01256 880733
Leader: Carol Armstrong 01189 816593
Page 58
Page 59

Loddon Valley Link 201503 - March 2015

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Church and Village Magazine

Holy Communion with the

Sunday 8th March

10.00am Morning Worship & Sunday Club

10.00am Family Communion

10.00am Family Service

Benefice Holy Communion

Family Communion with Lenten Cross St Leonards Sherfield

BREACH LANE CHAPEL

March 2015 Services

Family Worship led by Neil Owen

Youth Group The Flock

Deacons Meeting at Frimley Road

Family Worship led by Graham Locke

Church Walk from the Chapel

House Group & Bible Study at 9 Coopers Lane,

Family Worship led by Neil Owen with Holy

Family Worship led by Steve Smith

Church Walk starting at Sherfield Garden Centre

Midweek Fellowship at Chapel led by Geoff

Saturday Fellowship in the Chapel led by Geoff

Open Morning at Chapel

St Leonards Open Days

For more information and to book, please contact :

ALL THINGS BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL

Correction to February Parish Register

Join us at one of our Special Services this Easter!

2nd April MAUNDY THURSDAY

Phone/Fax: 01256 882224

Spring is on its way

Start Something this

Collect a sleeve for your jar....or

Lets do that! at St. Leonards Church on

PHONE 01276 473118

The Garage at Sherfield

Sherfield-on-Loddon, HOOK, Hants. RG27 0EZ

Tel: 01256 882271

MOTs Cars and

STRATFIELD SAYE PARISH REPORT

It has been some time since I submitted an article but hopefully

Please contact me on 880558 or email: cllr.chris.tomblin@basingstoke.gov.uk

Woofs and Wellies

5K and 10K Run

Probus hears about Microlight Flying

BASINGSTOKE CIVIL SERVICE RETIREMENT FELLOWSHIP

Independent family Funeral

Sherfield and District Gardening Club

TEXT FOR THE MONTH John15 : 4& 5 The NIV Bible

James Russell - obituary

Born in June 1933 in Old Deer, Aberdeenshire, he served in the

James & team building the jubilee beacon

He will be fondly remembered by the whole community. Ed.

Village Hall Matters

LIDDELL HALL KITCHEN

THE HALL GARDEN

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

At the heart of our community for over 100 years

Our Favourite Things

No WI report this month as the Ladies were out at

Basingstoke Childrens Centres

Sherfield on Loddon Parish Council

Basingstoke Ladies Choir

Chantal Brown01256 320474