LITTLE MILTON  NEWSLETTER

www.littlemilton.org.uk

November   2006

PARISH COUNCIL

The Council meeting held on Wednesday 11^th October was attended all Parish Councillors, the Clerk, and the District Councillor .There were three members of the public in attendance.

   Triangle of land adjacent to Wells Farm Cottage

The Clerk informed the meeting that he had spoken with Mr Howard Perkins at OCC in respect of the re-submission of the application to register the triangle of land adjacent to Wells Farm Cottage as a village green. Mr Perkins expressed his satisfaction with the detail of the application        and would now process the application. The outcome of the         application should be known within the next two months.

OCC Highways

The Clerk reported that Mr Peter Ronald at OCC Highways expects the re-lining of the build-outs to be completed in the near future as the      work was now scheduled by the contractor. The temporary road signs approaching the build –outs have also been removed.

   ORCC – Thame Area Review of Subsidised Bus Services

The Clerk reported that a questionnaire had been delivered to each house in the village and that the results would be analysed by ORCC as part of the consultation being conducted by OCC in its review of Supported Bus Services in the Wheatley, Thame and Watlington areas.

Youth Club Great Milton

The Clerk stated that a meeting of interested parties will be held in Great Milton in November.

Installation of CCTV camera

The Clerk informed the meeting that he had raised the matter with Abi Derbyshire of Thames Valley Police and was awaiting a response.

Youth Shelter

    The Chairman welcomed two young people from the village who had written to    the Council in response to the article in the October Newsletter. The Chairman           gave a brief resume of the project before he invited the comments from the    public. The concerns that were raised were that the initial consultation had been   too limited and that all young people should have been asked their views. There           was also a concern that such a facility may attract young people from outside       the village who may be less respectful to village amenities. There was an          acceptance that the needs of the young people of the village need to be catered for of which a youth shelter was one option.

The Council agreed that although the newsletter had informed the village of the project it was necessary     to conduct a wider consultation of the village views.

Recreation Ground

Mr Mark Willis informed the meeting on the grass cutting and weed treatment programme and expressed his satisfaction with the progress that has been made. He asked the Council to consider protecting the grass area that has been used as an overflow car park for Village Hall events. The Council agreed that the overflow car parking area should be restricted to a designated area and that it would investigate the cost of providing a protected surface. Mr Stuart McGill stated that the cost of any protection would be considered by the Village Hall committee.

Planning

P06/W0846 & P06/W848/LB – Lamb Inn, extension to existing premises to include a toilet block and courtyard area

The Clerk reported that these applications had been withdrawn by the applicant. It is understood that a      further application will be made by Punch Taverns having taken account of the comments made by   English Heritage and SODC officers.

Village Shop/Post Office

The Chairman reported that there had been regular meetings of the steering group and specific tasks had been allocated to various individuals. Mr Tim Robinson stated that there was a need for a clear relationship between the Post Office/Village Shop and the Parish Council. The Clerk stated that there would be a lease between the two bodies. It was agreed that Mr Tim Robinson and Mr Barry Coward would consider all the implications that new situation would present and report back to the Council.

Any Other Business

Mrs Mabel Wood expressed the concern of a resident that the traffic sign for the school on Church Hill was not visible as you approached it and thought that it should be re-positioned. The Clerk was asked to write to Mr Peter Ronald at OCC Highways.

The Parish Council will meet on Wednesday 8th November 2006 at 8.00 p.m. in The Pine Lodge Little Milton unless there is a need to convene any planning or other meetings.

R. Fergusson Parish Clerk

Please note that the complete minutes of the Council are now included on the Council website www.littlemilton.org.uk  after they have been approved by the Council.

Freedom of Information Act – Parish Council Publication Scheme

Residents can see the records of the policies and practices of the Parish Council

including minutes, financial information and responses to planning

consultations, on request from the Parish Clerk (Raymond Fergusson –279150). Current Council member are:

Mr Stuart McGill Chairman       Mr Simon Oddie Vice Chairman

Mrs Mabel Wood    Mrs Alison Shelton   Mr Barry Coward Mr Tim Robinson

SODC: WASTE MANAGEMENT CONTRACT

For a charge of £35 residents can arrange for their unwanted vehicle to be collected from within the District and a charge of £7.50 per bulky item e.g. fridge furniture etc. To arrange this service residents can call the Public Amenities Team on 01491 823416 or print a copy of the form from the Council’s website www.southoxon.gov.uk .

SOUTH OXFORDSHIRE DISTRICT COUNCIL –GARDEN WASTE COLLECTION

Your bin will be collected on the same day as your normal refuse and recycling. Please ensure however that your bin is placed in a safe place that does not obstruct the pavement or highway. The dates for September are as follows:-

Tuesday 7th and 21st November

If you are interested in this service please contact SODC Public Amenities on 01491 823416 or email: public.amenities@southoxon.gov.uk or visit www.southoxon.gov.uk

South Oxfordshire District Council’s new garden waste scheme is proving very popular, with over 4,000 residents signing up for the scheme. In the first week alone nearly 40 tonnes of garden waste was collected for composting- double the amount expected. (SODC Town and Parish Newsletter, July 2006)

COMMUNITY WASTE VEHICLES – DOMESTIC WASTE ONLY

The Oxfordshire County Council Waste Recycling Centres at Redbridge and Oakley Wood are open Monday to Saturday

8.30 a.m. – 4.00 p.m. and Sunday 9.00 a.m. – 4.00 p.m.

WHERE SHOULD NEW HOUSING GO- STONE BASSETT AGAIN?

As you will know, the Government has set targets for housing for the south east of England. This means that South Oxfordshire District Council has to find a place for 2000 more new homes as well as the ones at Didcot. The council (SODC) has therefore issued a questionnaire that it would like residents to complete, as to where this housing should go and noting the suggested sites that have already been put forward by interested parties.

If you look at the map of these suggested sites, you will see that there is a huge area as a suggested development- larger than any other on the map- which lies between the M40, A329, Great Haseley, Milton Common, stretching almost to Tetsworth. This is Stone Bassett again but in an even larger form than before.

Those of you who have been long resident here will know that in the late 1980s the village of Great Haseley, with support from the whole area, fought a huge battle to stop the development of Stone Bassett. The proposal had been for a town of 15,000 people just south of the village. The proposal would have utterly destroyed the rural atmosphere of this area. There was a huge- and costly- public enquiry, in which the Council for the Protection of Rural England (CPRE) was heavily involved, and the development was turned down.

This proposal does not in any way mean that the newly resurgent idea for Stone Bassett is part of the Council plans- as yet- but we all need to act to make sure it remains so. It would be helpful if everyone who has access to the internet were to complete the questionnaire and make it clear that Stone Bassett is not an option we welcome. You can also give your views on how the housing should be allocated and how development should be in Thame, Wheatley etc. This in itself is important for how south Oxfordshire will look in the next decades.

To find the questionnaire, go to www.southoxon.gov.uk, go to planning, then site allocation development plan and you will find both the map and the questionnaire. It only takes a few minutes to complete.

Mary Isaac on behalf of CPRE

GREAT MILTON YOUTH CLUB

There will be a meeting on Tuesday November 14th in the Great Milton Pavilion at 7.30pm to discuss the possibility of forming a Joint Youth Club.  Parents, young people (11 - 16 years) and any other interested parties are all invited to attend - the object being to form a Committee with the support of enthusiastic and willing participants to help and give this project a clear and positive start, which will be of benefit to all concerned.

Pat Cox on behalf of Great Milton Parish Council

OXFORDSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL

HAVE YOUR SAY ON OXFORDSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL’S LIBRARY SERVICE

Oxfordshire County Council’s libraries are taking place in a national visitor survey to find out what people think of the service they receive.

People over the age of 16 visiting all public libraries in Oxfordshire including the mobile libraries are being invited to take part.

The survey will look at who is using the services and why and will ask visitors to rate a number of topics including what they make of the look of the library; the information that is available as well as the books themselves.

OCC Newsdesk: January 2, 2007

FIGHT THE FLU BUG THIS WINTER

It’s that time of the year again. Autumn has begun, the cold weather’s coming…and so unfortunately, is the flu. Flu is of course an unpleasant experience for anybody, but to those who are ‘at risk’ including:

                        People aged 65 or more

                        People with respiratory diseases including asthma

                        Diabetes

                        People with serious heart, chest or kidney conditions

                        People with chronic liver disease

                        People with lowered immunity

                        Carer’s in receipt of carer’s allowance or those who are the main carer of elderly persons or disabled person (at the GP’s discretion)

Flu can be a major health concern. In order to avoid infection you need to move quickly! The good news is that if you are ’at risk’ you are entitled to a flu vaccination free of charge from your GP practice. To avoid the misery book your Flu jab today and don’t let Flu get the better of you or your children this winter.

Getting the jab is safe, quick and effective, and available from your local GP.

To find out more, call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47, or visit www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk

GRASS CUTTING ROTA FOR NOVEMBER

W/E 4th November                   -           Phil Jones

I would like to thank all those who have cut the grass during the past six months. Hopefully the winter will kick in and the grass will stop growing!!

Raymond Fergusson

CHURCH CLEANING ROTA FOR NOVEMBER

W/E 4th November                   -          Mrs L. Lovegrove/ Mrs C Coward

W/E 11th November                  -          Mrs E. Summers/ Mrs A Jones

W/E 18th November                  -          Mrs. G. Taylor/Mrs H Ridley

W/E 25th November                  -          Mrs A. Hawkins/Mrs. S. Jones

W/E 2nd December                   -          Mrs. M. Davies/Mrs S A Dennis

Sally Ann Dennis 278029

CHURCH FLOWER ROTA FOR NOVEMBER    

W/E 5th November                   -          Sylvia Taylor

W/E 12th November                  -          Sylvia Taylor

W/E 19th November                  -                                             

W/E 26th November                  -         

W/E 3rd December                   -          Advent

We are looking for new volunteers to help with flowers in the church.     

Teresa Quested

BELL RINGING PRACTICE DURING NOVEMBER

Just to let Villagers know that the Bell Ringers will be ringing in St. James’ Church, Little Milton on 

Tuesday 7th November                                           7.30 pm. to 9.00 pm

Sunday 12th November                                           10.30 am to 11.00 am

Tuesday 14th November                                         7.30 pm to 9.00 pm

Tuesday 21st November                                         7.30 pm. to 9.00 pm.

Sunday 26^th November                                            9.30 am to 10.00 am

Tuesday 28th November                                          7.30 pm. to 9.00 pm.

Raymond Fergusson (279150)

“IN THE SIGHT OF GOD, AND IN THE FACE OF THIS CONGREGATION…”

During the Summer we had a number of lovely weddings, and at one the following address was offered.

One thing I love to do and that is to travel. Seeing new sights, meeting old friends and making new, often the other side of the world, and enjoying their hospitality. I enjoy experiencing different and contrasting cultures. But I would not enjoy my travels if I had no home to return to. Home where we can be ourselves, where things and faces are familiar, where we belong, where we are loved, where we know our bearings. Home a still point. Without such a point of stillness, a life of constant movement would be a nightmare.

All these things are in my mind as we come here today. We have come away from our journeying into this our church, with its peace, effortless beauty and stillness. We have come to witness and to share in and celebrate the wedding of R & A. They become the real focus of us all. Today we have seen and heard them make solemn vows to each other, exchange rings. Today they begin a new life among us, as husband and wife, as together, as ONE. I’ve got to say, I haven’t had the privilege of knowing them that long, but whenever they came to see me, I immediately felt at my ease, and when we met on subsequent occasions that feeling remained. I had mysteriously given me, a picture of what their home was to be: a point of stillness in this restless world, but it was to be stillness vibrant with energy, because they have a vision of what they want their home to be, and they have the energy to make that vision a reality. The still centre of the home.

But there is another still centre of which I should speak. That is the still centre of God. God is the one who instituted marriage.

Christian marriage is a glorious friendship which is made all the more glorious if God is at the centre. If a marriage is to be happy, fulfilling and lasting, it must be a sincere commitment based upon convictions and discipline. There are, I believe, three main convictions. One conviction is the institution of marriage itself. Then in particular today, the conviction of R & A’s love for each other. Then there is the conviction that God gives generously of his grace to those who seek it. None of us is perfect. We all have some faults. In marriage, every one of us, at one time or another, is a burden to the other. Christian love alone makes the burden light. If you cannot bear with your partner, how will your partner bear with you? Look for the best in each other. Extol the virtues you find. Be patient and generous with the weaknesses. But always remember true love is indefatigable and never tires. True love is inexhaustible. It lives and is born again of itself. The more it pours itself forth, the more it abounds.

Of that love, with its magic and mystery, we are here to celebrate. That love has drawn these two together. It has beckoned us come and celebrate. And this love which we have come to know radiates out and engulfs us, and just because of what R & A have between them, we too have become better, brighter, and happier. You see in marriage, through love, A & R are playing their part in making this world of ours more loving. And this begins in the fixed still point, though vibrant with energy, of the home. Love holding all things together.

Each of us, whether we love travelling or not, needs a still centre where we sense the things that hold life together. R & A, a few moments ago made their vows before God in the centre of this church, a reminder that God is the still centre of the whole of creation. God is leading us always into new ways. For R &A that is the adventure of married life. I wonder what it is for you? But God is ever holding us all secure in his love. To that love this church bears witness.

In a few minutes R & A will leave this still point and begin their new adventure. May they always know that in all that they do, wherever they are, in all circumstances, at all times, they will be held so securely in God’s hands of love.

Victor Story

FROM THE RECTORY.

ALL SAINTS DAY

All Saints day falls on Wednesday 1^st November, and there will be a celebration of Holy Communion in St. Mary’s, Great Milton at 7.30 p.m.

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY.

Remembrance Sunday falls on the 12^th November and in each of the Services in our Churches that day we shall be remembering those who gave of themselves to that we might live in freedom. As I pass by any War Memorial, I often look at the names and think what a devastating effect the wars have had on villages such as our own.

At our Services we shall read the names on the Roll of Honour, and in so doing we shall in some way be restoring the individuality of each person, each poppy in the fields. The soldier unrecognized and unknown becomes known again-a young man, a great grandfather, a lover, a boyhood friend. So vast a multitude, a grief to humankind and a grief to God.

Some say it’s childish fantasy that God can care for each soul, that he knew us from the womb; yet the drive to restore to each soldier their name and character reveals a deeper instinct which will not allow any person to be obliterated, unremembered, or die without trace.

God always remembers. He cannot forget, nor should we.

The Services for Remembrance Sunday will be:-

Holy Communion at St. Peter’s, Great Haseley at 8.00 a.m., followed by laying a wreath on the Village War Memorial.

Sung Communion at Little Milton at 9.30 a.m. during which we shall lay a wreath on the memorial in the Church.

Benefice Remembrance Day Service in St. Mary’s, Great Milton beginning at the War Memorial in the Churchyard. at 10.45 a.m.. Of course, in its own way this will be an ecumenical service.

Victor

01844 279498

LITTLE MILTON CHRISTMAS FAYRE

This year the Fayre will be held on Saturday 2^nd December from 11.00 a.m. until 2.00 p.m.

There will be all the usual attractions including high quality, homemade Xmas food and preserves, a huge Christmas raffle, crafts and gifts as well as a children’s activity area.  Come and enjoy coffee and cake or even stay for lunch. The bacon sandwiches are famous! We will also have a visit from  Santa.

As usual we would be grateful for any help that you could give to ensure the success of this event. Donations can be made to the following people:-

            Food, cakes etc                         Sarah Jones

            Raffle prizes                             Stuart McGill

            Craft & Gifts                            Teresa Quested

            Children’s Activities                  The Orchard Pre-School

Many  thanks to you all- see you there!

Teresa Quested

SUNDAY SCHOOL NEWS

In November we are meeting for a Brunch session at Christine’s home, 1 Chiltern View on the 5^th and on the 19^th we meet in Church. Both meetings begin at 11.00 and end at 12.30. There is no family service this month as it is Remembrance Sunday (see service notes for details of services on this date). There were 15 children at our October meeting and three new children joined us so if you’re wondering whether to come along and join us don’t hesitate a moment longer!

S. A. Dennis 278029

BENEFICE SERVICES FOR NOVEMBER

GREAT MILTON METHODIST CHURCH Minister:  Revd. Derick Chambers Tel: 212019

SUNDAY SERVICES IN NOVEMBER

For further information please ring me.

 Evelyn Holme 278938

FRIENDS OF LITTLE MILTON SCHOOL 200 CLUB

Due to subscriptions still coming in the draw for October and November will be made in mid November and the winners will appear in the December newsletter.

Sue Marriott 279124

For the Friends of Little Milton School

CHRISTMAS LUNCH AT THE PINE LODGE

Were you born before 1950? If so we would like to invite you to enjoy a Christmas Lunch on Saturday 16^th December at 12.30 p.m. in the Pine Lodge.

This will be a freshly cooked meal with all the trimmings. We need to know how many to cater for. So please let Janet Betts of 8 Old Field (279238) know if you would like to come.

Look forward to seeing you there!

PINE LODGE CHRISTMAS LUNCH

We would be grateful for any donations of wine, chocolates, crackers etc to help towards this event. If you can helping any way please contact

                                    Janet Betts

                                    Linda Lovegrove

                                    Teresa Quested

Many thanks to you all.

THE PINE LODGE

Another very successful Quiz Night was held at the end of September, with Hil & Mike setting the questions-must remember my particle physics next time!- and record takings from the event! Thanks again to them for all their work. Next one is December 2^nd, and after that is January 13^th (yes, moved again-the Pine Lodge bookings are coming in thick and fast).

Then-a miracle! The Race Night turned out to be a great success, despite being low in numbers, but everyone had a great time and we even made money on it (we didn’t back any horses!). Congratulations to Anne Hawkins who almost single handedly organised the event.

I am delighted to say we have been granted £300 from Oxfordshire County Council towards our Cinema Club, thanks entirely to Charlotte Watts, who completed the application herself. Thanks Blossom! We await the verdict of Awards for All.

NEXT EVENTS

FIREWORKS NIGHT-Saturday 4^th November

After a very successful event last year, we have booked the Hall for Saturday the 4^th November for another Fireworks celebration.  

There were some comments last year about how noisy the fireworks were, and we all care about our pets, so we have agreed to buy “Quiet” fireworks this year-or at least quieter than before, for the benefit of small children in particular.

There will be hot soup and hot dogs included in the prices, plus sparklers and coloured fluorescent bands for sale, so come and enjoy a great evening.

THE FIREBIRD TRAVELLING PLAY

We have booked the Oxford Travelling Theatre Company for their production of The Firebird on Saturday, 25^th November 2006. We will be distributing flyers around the village in early November for this exciting event, for all the family

CHRISTMAS FAYRE Saturday December 2^nd (daytime)

Please come and give your usual excellent support to our Christmas Fayre, which is always a great village occasion and all proceeds go to deserving village causes

QUIZ NIGHT-December 2^nd (EVENING) SEE SEPARATE NOTICE

Stuart McGill 279092

 FIREWORKS NIGHT  - LOW NOISE!

SATURDAY NOV 4^TH-

6PM START

TICKETS £5 FOR ADULTS

£3 CHILDREN & SENIORS

£15 FAMILY TICKET

FROM POST OFFICE

INCLUDES SOUP & HOT DOGS

BAR

LITTLE MILTON COMMUNITY SHOP / POST OFFICE

Plans are gathering speed to secure the future of the Post Office in a new location, adjacent to the Pine Lodge village hall, and to expand with a community shop and coffee conservatory.  The Steering Team is busy in the background preparing business plans and securing the finance for the actual building.  NOW is the time for the whole village to get involved and support this vital village amenity.

Fundraising is beginning in earnest to provide the shop’s working capital and to cover the initial start up costs.  Please do support these events as wholly as you are able – either in organising, contributing ideas or simply coming along!  The Team are very grateful for any suggestions for events and are trying to design events the like of which have never been seen in Little Milton before, such as:

–        clear your loft of unneeded Christmas decorations to decorate trees for auction

–        save your unwanted Christmas presents for a January Sale

–        contribute your skills or service to an Evening of Promises – everyone has something to offer

–        brush up your Black Jack for a casino night

–        get your sequins out to step onto the stage to show your X-Factor!

If you would like to get involved or have ideas etc, please contact Lesley McCaig (278244).

Finally, show your support and the need for a village shop / post office, by using the one we have now!  Annie and her team always offer a warm welcome and can supply your post office needs, plus a slice of cake that you didn’t know you needed!

Lesley McCaig

SOUTH & VALE CARERS

Many of you will know that there are people in your Parish who are sick, disabled, elderly or frail. Often their greatest wish is to continue to live in their own homes with as much independence and dignity as their conditions allow. NHS and Social and Community services are struggling to provide the required level of support needed.

For most people in this position it is a relative, neighbour or friend that provides the help they need. It is important that carers remain strong, fit and healthy if they are to continue helping the person they care for.

South & Vale Carers centre is a local charity that provides support for unpaid carers in your area. All of our services are confidential and free. If you are a Carer or you know a Carer who may benefit from our services please contact us on 01235 510212 or write to 5 Lyndalls Road, Didcot, OX11 7HX or carers@svcarers.org.uk

  FRIENDS OF WELLS FARM

We plan to meet on Sunday 5^th November, when we intend begin tidying up the Allotment area. We as a group are now responsible for taking this quite neglected area forward. The long-term plan is to plant a hedge adjacent to the road & to plant an orchard within the existing allotment area. If anyone knows of local varieties of fruit tree, we will be interested to find out more.

The two horses that are here are called Ollie & Bertie, be careful with these animals as they are not used to handling so can scare quite easily.

We welcome anyone who would like to come along and get some fresh air. We meet in the Farmyard at 10.30 a.m.

Phil Jones 278120

LITTLE MILTON W.I.

Next Meeting:   This will be held at 7:45 pm on the 9^th November at the Pine Lodge, Little Milton when Phillipa Oakley will speak about Aloe Vera.  Visitors are very welcome.

At our October meeting Mrs Farrar entertained us with anecdotes and gardening wisdom gleaned from creating a garden and lake in the grounds of an Elizabethan manor house.  The talk interwove amusing anecdotes and fascinating references to garden history.

The practical tips for gardeners given by Mrs Farrer included:

-          Use seaweed liquid as plants love it.

-          Squirrels don’t like the smell of oranges (skins).

-          Tabasco sauce can be used to coat bean seeds to protect them.

-          Plant lily bulbs on their side.

-          Slugs don’t like coffee grounds.

-          Put garlic in borders to dissuade moles.

-          Use cayenne pepper to stop a cat.

-          Plant a green manure crop in winter.

At the October group meeting at Stadhampton members enjoyed a talk by Bucks and Berks Wildlife Trust based on a member’s garden. It started in winter and featured the animals, birds and flowers in her garden as the seasons progressed.  The respect of a fox for a hedgehog’s spikes had been perfectly caught on camera. The wildlife in the pond was featured, as was the amazing number of creatures inhabiting a half-barrel filled with water.  It gave us lots of ideas for encouraging wildlife in our own gardens.

President:  Anne Hawkins, Little Milton 279526 Secretary:  Helen Ridley 278816

Press Correspondent:  Lyndell Dixon, Great Haseley 279275

NEIGHBOURS CLUB

On the 28th September we were entertained by Maddy and Mo who are always popular with club members as they sing their songs and tell their stories.  On Wednesday, the 4th October, forty members and friends went to Bablockhythe for lunch and an afternoon playing skittles.  This is always a very enjoyable afternoon and causes many laughs.  On Thursday, the 12th October, Mrs Barbara Gray was our guest.  Mrs Gray provides accommodation for language students in Oxford and it was very interesting listening to her talking about her students and also the weddings to which she had been invited in various countries. 

 Forthcoming Events - November

9th Thur - Bring and Buy, special raffle and craft competition - 2.15 p.m.

22nd Wed - Outing to Turners, Wickstead Park, Kettering.

Joyce Price

SEWING GROUP

We’re meeting this month on Tuesday November 14^th from 11.00 onwards at 14 Milton Manor Drive, the home of Sarah McLean. If you’re staying for lunch do phone Sarah by Monday 13^th for catering numbers (279996). Advance notice: the December date is Thursday 7^th December (an early date to avoid the Christmas “crush”).

Sally Ann Dennis

VIEW FROM VIEWS

I think at last we are beginning to catch up with rain fall. It was good to see the river in flood in the middle of the month, but my, hasn’t it been warm. It was surprising to see how quickly our river fields were colonized with wetland birds, nature is so resourceful, and they were there within 12 hours of the river bursting its banks. We have also had an abundance of all sorts of different types of mushrooms. I have learnt that our Post Master Pat has a liking for them so I have introduced him to the delicacies of the Puff Ball. This fungus growth is due to the wet weather after such a long period of dry and warm.

Having been fairly busy in the last month helping with the installation of our new Bio-Diesel Plant, I have not had the time to observe the wild life around the farm. We do seem to have an increase in the number of Owls at the moment, and the local Sparrow hawk visits occasionally (not all that welcome, but he is all part of nature which can be very cruel). The Badgers or Foxes, which appear to alternate inhabiting the same earth, seem to have taken up residence again, in an earth between our house and the Forties corner. This is following a period of relative inactivity. I think before long they will undermine the road as the earth works on the verge are unbelievable, and occasionally a mound of earth is left on the side of the road. I can see a roads inspector coming along one day and saying “now then what’s going here we can’t have this it’s a danger to road users”. But if it is Badgers there is nothing we can do about it and it is too near the road anyway for any pest control.  

Bonfire Night and waste regulation law: The following was sent to me as part of a weekly NFU bulletin and thought it might be of interest with Bonfire Night approaching.

 The Environment Agency is receiving the usual flow of calls about burning waste. Their advice is the same as last year: “The disposal of controlled waste by burning other than in accordance with an issued permission or valid exemption is illegal. This includes, for example, Guy Fawkes Night bonfires. However, we do not generally consider that it is within the public interest to institute legal proceedings for legitimate recreational/cultural bonfires as long as the material being burned is suitable for purpose (i.e. untreated wood, paper, card), the size is proportionate and the location is appropriate and does not indicate the involvement of waste operators in the course of, or as a result of, their business. We will take action where the bonfire appears to us to represent a waste disposal method rather than a recreational event and/or the materials being burned are unsuitable (i.e. plastics, rubber, plasterboard etc).” Make what you will of all this but it just illustrates what a bureaucratic word we live in!

At last, or at least as far as UK farmers are concerned, the price of cereals is increasing, having been at a lower level than they were some 10 years or more ago. This upturn is due to adverse weather conditions around the world, particularly in Australia. This of course is good for us but rather unfortunate for them. I believe that some Australian Farmers are going out of business as it is the second year running that they have had a bad harvest due to drought. This has led to world wheat reserves reaching an all time low; I understand that we are now down to 3 weeks supply surplus, hence the price increase.

It might be interesting to make the calculation on how the increase in the price of wheat affects the price of a loaf of bread. Assuming that a loaf contains 800grams of flour. This means that if a tonne of wheat increases by £10 then 800grams will cost an extra .08p, so if the wheat price moves up by £30, which is what I think it has, the effect on a loaf could be .24p.

Finally, as a footnote, I would like to make a few points to the anonymous person who placed the fake parking ticket on my vehicle when parked outside the post office. The ticket told me that I had made a “poor vehicle choice” in driving a Land Rover “miles from the nearest wilderness”. It went on to ask why I need it to “get to the gym/take kids to school/commute to a business park/trek to Homebase on a Sunday” and finished by saying that I “ought to be committing a criminal offence by driving around town in a vehicle that does this much damage”. Now anyone who knows me would realize that my school run days are behind me, I’ve never been one for the rowing machine and that Homebase is not somewhere I go on a bank holiday! If whoever gave me this ticket would like to contact me I would be more than happy to discuss firstly my needs for a 4/4 around the farm (I find harnessing the horse and cart a bit time consuming these days) and secondly the fact that running it on our bio-fuel is probably more carbon neutral than the aforementioned mode of transport (certainly less methane). So contrary to the words on the ticket my “conscience is clear”.

Charles Peers

TALKING SCIENCE – Events at CCLRC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory

Friday 10 November 10.30 am 1.30 pm 7pm Age 11+

Rosetta on the road Slim Barber Open University

The CCLRC Rutherford Appleton Laboratory carries out world leading research ranging from the vastness of space to the invisibly small world of nanotechnology. All the lectures are free and many are suitable for families – age guidelines are shown for each lecture. If you are interested in what might be available please contact 01235 445000

SCIENCE OXFORD

There is a list of events that can be viewed on www.oxtrust.org.uk or you can ring 01865 728953.

ADVICE FROM THE CAB:

For more information and advice on consumer rights go to www.adviceguide.org.uk or contact your local CAB.

THAME AND DISTRICT CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU

Advice line 01844 214827             Appointment Line 01844 217186

GREAT HASELEY & DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY

Time to tidy up the garden ready for winter.  Rake up fallen leaves and collect in a chicken wire container or in a small garden a black plastic bag tied at the top, you will have good mulch for next year.  Cut down dying foliage of herbaceous plants, and add to the compost heap.  Leave standing if the birds will benefit from seeds or they will look good frosted.

Tips for November gardeners

Shrubs, Roses, Trees - This is the best month for planting new shrubs, roses, fruit trees and hedging.  They will get well established before the worst weather. They can be bare rooted or container grown.  Plant in a large hole with some compost, firm well in with your heel, water in well.  Keep an eye on them as strong winds can rock larger specimens.

Tulips - November is the best month for planting tulips in the ground and in pots.  For a continuous display try layering a large container with various bulbs.  Tulips deepest at about 16cms, iris reticulata above at 10cms and crocus on top at 5cms they should flower in succession giving colour from February to May.  Chicken wire will keep squirrels from stealing the bulbs!  If planting in the ground try to avoid areas planted in previously.

Vegetables - Broad beans can be planted now, ‘aqueduct’ is a good variety.  Also plant garlic bulbs for next year’s crop.  Sweet Peas - Can be sown under glass this month too.

If you would like to join your local gardening society,

Membership only £3 a year.

Contact Membership Secretary Sally Orriss at:

The Old Stores, Great Milton OX44 7NL or on 01844 279231

WHEATLEY LIBRARY

Firstly, I would like to thank all the children who took part in the Reading

Our new e-mail address is wheatley.library@oxfordshire.gov.uk. The telephone number is unchanged at 01865 – 875267.

A reminder of the opening times:

Tuesday  2.00  – 7.00 p.m : Wednesday  9.30 am.- 1.00 pm.: 2.00 5.00 p.m.

Thursday 2.00  – 5.00 p.m. :Friday 9.30 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. : 2.00p.m.- 6.00 p.m

Saturday 9.30 a.m. – 1.00 p.m.

Carole Underwood (Library Manager)

GREAT HASELEY AND DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY

INVITE YOU TO 

WINTER GARDEN TALK

AND

CHRISTMAS PARTY

ON TUESDAY 5^TH DECEMBER 2006 AT 7.30PM

GREAT HASELEY VILLAGE HALL

VAL BOURNE

‘THE NATURAL GARDENER’

GARDEN EDITOR OXFORD TIMES, AUTHOR AND GARDEN CORRESPONDENT DAILY TELEGRAPH

JOIN US FOR AN INFORMATIVE AND LIVELY TALK FROM WELL KNOWN GARDENING WRITER VAL BOURNE, FOLLOWED BY MINCE PIES AND SPARKLING WINE

FREE TO MEMBERS

£5 NON MEMBERS- BUT IF YOU JOIN GHHS ON THE NIGHT (ONLY £3 MEMBERSHIP FEE!) THERE WILL BE NO CHARGE

IMPORTANT

I want to take this opportunity to remind you all that the best way to try and ensure that you keep our little Post Office off the reported closure list is just use it as much as possible……………EVERY SINGLE TRANSACTION HELPS

Never have these words been more relevant …USE IT or without doubt risk LOSING IT

Annie Rogers (Postmistress)

 BORIS JOHNSON MP – SURGERY DATES AND VENUES NOVEMBER 2006

Friday 3rd November        4.00 pm-5.45pm        Henley Town Hall

Friday 24th November      4.00 pm – 5.45pm     Watlington Community Office 

The surgeries are very popular and it advisable that if you wish to make an appointment that you do so sometime before the surgery you would like to attend. Please contact 01491 612852 

CAR SERVICE TO THE DOCTOR OR HOSPITAL

The car service to the doctor or hospital is for anyone in the villages of Great Milton, Great Haseley or Little Milton. Passengers are required to pay:

Visit to Hospital £4.00 (passenger pays for any car park) and Visit to Doctor        £2.00

This service is made possible by a grant from the Parish Councils to help cover the driver’s petrol cost.

We are very short of drivers and if there is anyone willing to give a small amount of time, possibly twice a month, to drive either to the doctor or hospital we would be very grateful.

Thelma Blake 279567

GETTING THE RIGHT TREATMENT

NHS Direct

If you want advice or general information call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47. This is a 24 hour service staffed by nurses who can give confidential advice and information on what to do if you are unwell, have any health concerns and give contact details or self help or support organisations. You can also visit their website at www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk

What to do when your GP practice is closed

If you need to visit a GP or health professional outside of normal working hours you can call our service on 0845 345 8995. We will then arrange for you to see the right health professional in the right

place. This service runs from 6.30 p.m. to 8.30 a.m. weekdays and 24 hours over weekends and bank holidays.

In an emergency please call 999 to talk to the ambulance service.

DEADLINE REMINDER – Please note that unless articles are in the hands of the Editor by the 20^th of the month (unless otherwise stated), such articles will miss the scheduled Newsletter. The views expressed in this Newsletter are not necessarily those of the Editor or the Parish Council. All material

for inclusion in the December 2006 Newsletter should be with the Editor at 27 Chiltern View, Little Milton, by 8.00 p.m. on 20th November 2006. The Editor reserves the right not to print items submitted for publication and to edit those items, which are published.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

NOVEMBER 2006