PARISH MATTERS OCTOBER 2017 VILLAGE VIEWS & LOCAL NEWS. Monthly newsletter for Ambrosden, Arncott, Blackthorn, Merton & Piddington

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1 PARISH MATTERS OCTOBER 2017 Monthly newsletter for Ambrosden, Arncott, Blackthorn, Merton & Piddington VILLAGE VIEWS & LOCAL NEWS

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3 CONTENTS Letters from the Clergy Team 4 Church Services 5 Clergy Contacts 6 Ambrosden News 8 Arncott News 12 Blackthorn News 20 Merton News 22 Otmoor Garden Society Report 25 Piddington News 27 Bus Timetables 31 Vet Report 34 Otmoor womans Institue 35 Advertising and Contacts 36 PHYLLIS FENNER Rosemary, Pat and family would like to thank everyone who came to Phyllis funeral and made it such a beautiful celebration of her life. Many thanks for all the cards and messages, your generous donations amounted to 300 which has been presented to St Mary s church in Ambrosden. Sincere thank you also to Rev Lisa Holmes for an amazing personal service for Phyllis 3

4 letter from the Clergy team Another academic year has started with all the implications that brings with it. For some, it is the first term at school; for others, it is the first term at a new school. For some, it is the transition from primary to secondary school; for others, it is the transition from secondary to tertiary education. The impact is significant for the pupils, their teachers, their families and for the community. Hours of work has been done behind the scenes preparing timetables and lessons, buying uniform and making sure everything is ready for the start of term, and making all the transport arrangements. There have been sighs of relief where everything has worked out well and perhaps a few tears of frustration where they haven t worked out so well. And, of course, there have been the unexpected factors which have the potential to upset all our plans illness, accident, promotion, or change in family circumstance. It s a busy time for everyone which affects us all even if it s just the level of traffic in the mornings and afternoons. And, just as we get back in to a routine, we have a series of other events which are welcomed at this time of year too. We have harvest on the horizon, Remembrance Sunday not too far away and the shops are already trying to get us thinking about Christmas as if we needed that! In amongst all the busyness of this time of year there is the comforting reassurance of routine and a sense of the seasons completing their cycle. It s good to know that Autumn heralds Winter just as it is good to know that the beginning of term is followed by harvest we derive comfort from a rhythm in life. Of course, there are pressures with deadlines and seemingly endless lists of things that have to be done, but there s also the satisfaction of achievement and knowing that another year has been successfully negotiated. There is also the huge encouragement of knowing that we are walking alongside God as we continue on our journey of life God who knows our past, our present and our future. There is reassurance in reflecting on the fact that God knew us before we were born, that He has our names written on His hands, and that He has an eternity planned for us after death. One of the advantages of routine is that it should give us more time for reflection even if it is when we are stuck in traffic outside school at the start of the day! Just as we watch over the children in our community and see them change from year to year as they grow older and experience all that life throws their way, so our heavenly Father watches over us. Wouldn t it be wonderful if we wanted to share our day with Him in the same way that our children want to share their days with us? 4

5 Church services OCT. St Mary s - Ambrosden, Arncott and Blackthorn // St Swithun s - Merton // St Nicholas - Piddington.

6 Clergy contacts Clergy Church of England contacts: Rev Steve Hayes (Rector Ray Valley Benefice) Rev Lisa Holmes (Ambrosden, Merton and Piddington) Rev Victoria Mellor (Charlton on Otmoor and Odd ton) Rev Lucy Thirtle (Islip, Noke and Woodeaton) Mrs Glenys Edwards (based in Oddington) Lynne Lewis Benefice Administrator Methodist: Rev Steve Mann (Bicester Methodist Church) Methodist services: Please consult the website: Roman Catholic: Fr John Batthula Catholic services: Please consult the website: Churchwardens Ambrosden: Matt Holmes, Holly Tree Cottage, Merton Road Angela Jones, 16, West Hawthorn Road, Ambrosden Piddington: Margaret Hutchings, Kings Cottage, Lower End, Piddington Merton: Lawrence Comiskey, 2 Church Close, Merton Robert Kerr, Merton Croft, West End Lane, Merton Organists & Bells Ambrosden: Mrs Pam Newell (bells only) Organist (vacant) Piddington: Mrs Betty Newell Mr Tony Pearce Merton: Mr Russell Thompson (no ringable bells)

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8 Ambrosden news Ambrosden Parish Council meetings held in the Village Hall on the 3rd Thursday of each month. At Parish website Ambrosden Parish Councillors: Mark Longworth (Chair) mlongworth.co.uk Maureen Cossens (Vice Chair) Chris West Paul Bradley Philip Blazdell Serinne Mills Curtis Sue Posselwhite Parish Clerk Lynne Cox 11 Otmoor View, Merton, Oxon District Councillors Three District Councillors represent the ward of Ambrosden and Bicester South. David Anderson (Conservative) Nick Cotter (Independent) Dan Sames (Conservative) County Councillor Dan Sames (Conservative) Facebook Community message boards Ambrosden Community Ambrosden and Caversfield Forces Wives St. Mary s Church Five Acres School Children s Centre Ambrosden Village Pre School Monday - Friday term time only Jackie Floyd ambrosdenvillagepreschool@hotmail.co.uk Tiddlywinks Playgroup , 11:50-14:50. Debra Cherry tiddlywinks_playgroup@msn.com Ambrosden Doctors Surgery Parish and Village Hall Notice Boards Costcutter and Merton Road (outside village hall. Community Notice Board Public board Ploughley Road bus shelter 8

9 Garrison Gym and Swimming Pool Contact Garrison centre for latest updates on opening times and availability Army Welfare Service Community Development Worker Lynn Waite Recycling Bottle banks, behind Doctors surgery SCARECROW COMPETITION Saturday 7th October Theme Hobbies entry forms - ambrosdenscarecrow@outlook.com DOGS The Parish Council is receiving complaints about an increase in dog fouling, the dog waste bin at Park Rise will be replaced and a new bin installed near Ambrosden Court. The Parish Council has recently been given CCTV footage of a serial dog fouler and this will be handed to Cherwell DC for further action. There is up to a fine of 1000 if you are caught dog fouling. The Parish Council is putting up new warning signs around the village. Please bag it and bin it. FIX MY STREET Broken Street Lights, Pot Holes and Fly tipping and overgrowing hedges obstructing footways, along with many other highways issues can be reported direct to the County and District Councils, via STAY AND PLAY SESSIONS A new stay and play session has commenced for at the Village Hall on Tuesday mornings for fathers, mothers and carers of children aged 0-3. A community group Ambrosden 4 Children has also set up stay, play and Learn Sessions at the Childrens Centre for children of 0-5 years old. NEW DEVELOPMENTS 16/02611/OUT - An outline application for 130 houses has been submitted by Hallam Land for a development adjacent the Officer s Mess. This application was refused at Planning Committee. 16/02370/FUL An application has been submitted for 85 houses at Church Leys adjacent Springfields by Archstone and Bellway. A revised scheme has been submitted to Cherwell, which the Parish Council finds acceptable. This application will be going to Planning Committee at Cherwell District Council PLANNING Wretchwick Green An application has recently been submitted for 1500 houses and warehouses on land between Wretchwick Farm Cottages and Langford Village. We understand from the planning department that there are fundamental technical and design issues delaying progression of this application. ALLOTMENTS AT SPRINGFIELDS Bloor has completed the remediation works on the allotments. The Parish Council has appointed a solicitor to undertake the conveyancing. An Allotment committee is being established and is Co-ordinated by Parish Councillor Serinne Curtis.

10 PARISH COUNCIL APPROACH TO NEW DEVELOPMENT Cherwell District Council s new local plan, adopted in July 2015, states that Ambrosden is a growth village capable of taking additional development. Its was agreed at the July 2015 Parish Council Meeting, that the APC should take a proactive approach to engage with the developers, on schemes that are able to provide benefits to the Parish, with a view to obtaining planning gains for the village such as funding for the community building, replacement railings, youth facilities, and an area of open space (potentially an entire field). The Parish Council will preserve its rights to object to any unsuitable development proposals. Ambrosden Diary Turners Arms Public House- Ambrosden Bicester Lions 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month - Turners Arms- Merton Road Contact Facebook Bicester Lions Open from 7pm onwards on weekdays additionally a on Saturday it is also open lunchtime 12-3 and then from 7pm. On Sunday it is open from and then from 7pm. Monday Aqua Splash Swimming lessons for Primary/ secondary School Age at Ambrosden s Garrison Pool. Contact Georgina Newell Circuit training Village Hall Kirsty Kennedy Contact via Facebook HIIT Circuit workout pm Zumba Fitness 6.20 pm Contact Laurence rebournefitnessuk@gmail.com - www. rebournefitness.com Ambrosden Gaming club first three Mondays of the month every month Selection of table top wargames such as bolt action and warhammer. Minimum age 18 Contact Gaming-Club / Tuesday Little Munchkins Stay and Play Debbie Taekwondo Village Hall Juniors age 7 years and over 6:30pm - 7:30pm. Contact Adrian - (07979) buckstkdacademy.co.uk/ Aqua Splash Swimming lessons at Ambrosden s Garrison Pool. Kettlercise 8pm-9pm Contact Sharon kettlercisefitness@yahoo.co.uk Codfather Fish and Chips, Kebabs Next to Costcutter evenings until about 8.30pm Wednesday Bingo Village Hall Doors open 7.15 Eyes down 8pm. - Contact: Bicester Bereavement Support Group - 1st and 3rd Tuesday 10am 11.30am Residents Lounge, Hanover Gardens, Manorsfield Road, OX26 6DG Youth club 12-17yrs - 7-9pm Contact read Lynn Waite on

11 your village, your news... your village, your news... Slimming World 3, 5 and 7 pm Salvation Army Hall, Hart Place, Bicester Contact Tina Hawkins via Facebook Ambrosden Community Bicester Military Wives Choir pm 9.00pm Silibaravi Families Centre, Ambrosden Karen Rea - Bicester@militarywiveschoirs. org Ambrosden Village Hall Events, Parties, Clubs Thursday Thrift Shop behind doctors Parish Council Every Third Thursday 7.30pm Kettlercise 7pm-8pm (Not third Thursday) Contact Sharon kettlercisefitness@yahoo.co.uk Friday Rainbows (age 5-7) index.php/rainbows Brownies Ages 7-10yrs from, pm To hire Ambrosden Village Hall please contact ANDY & LISA CAMPBELL ANDYAMP-AIR@TESCO.NET For any errors or omissions please contact Mark Longworth - ambrosden@mlongworth. co.uk VILLAGE HALL BOOKINGS ANDY & LISA CAMPBELL - ANDYAMP- AIR@TESCO.NET

12 Arncott news REPORT FROM ARNCOTT VHMC & ACA MEETING 29th AUGUST & PARISH COUNCIL MEETING 5th SEPTEMBER 2017 Arncott Parish Council meetings usually take place in the village hall at 7:30pm on the 1st Tuesday of every month. All parishioners are welcome to attend. HOWEVER, PLEASE NOTE THAT THERE WILL NOT BE A PARISH COUNCIL MEETING IN OCTOBER. THE NEXT PARISH COUNCIL MEETING WILL BE ON NOVEMBER 7th. Your current Arncott Parish Councillors are ; Paul Wilson (Chairman) Lee Savidge (Vice Chairman) Martin Byrne Ade Doore Di Selby Nicola Smith Parish Clerk - Anne Davies clerkatarncott@gmail.com Parish website - com/arncott/ Parish - arncottpc@gmail.com Parish Matters Magazine marionmoore20@ btinternet.com Your contacts for the Village Hall Management Committee are ; John Cooper (Chairman) johncooper47@btinternet.com Christine Dunkin (Village Hall hire) avhlettings@gmail.com If you have any issues that you would like to raise then please contact a Parish Councillor or send an to the Parish Clerk or the Parish address. Woodpiece Road parking As mentioned last month, CDC have agreed to create extra car parking provision. The additional provision will be created at sites F, G & H as shown in the stage 2 report presented at the open meeting at the end of March this year. The report is available to view on the parish website. Work will hopefully start early into The Parish Council are currently waiting to see project planning details from CDC. Speedwatch The program continues with very few people who are prepared to give a little of their time to help. Your Parish Council is still asking for more volunteers to come forward and assist with this program. The aim is to get enough people to form a speedwatch group. Moaning about traffic speeding through the village is one thing. Being prepared to help try and get it stopped is another. Once again, PLEASE think seriously about helping us out with this and, if you can, then let us know by ing the Parish Clerk, the Parish address or by contacting any Parish Councillor directly. 12

13 Murcott Road Build-out County Councillor Dan Sames advised the meeting that OCC were / have been holding consultations on the proposal to construct this build out. The Parish Council was advised at the beginning of August that this should take 28 days so hopefully OCC have now had their consultations and things can begin to move on. As required, the Parish Council officially agreed to the proposal and is now waiting to be advised by OCC when the construction will take place. Hopefully by the end of this year / start of next year. Defibrillator Units There are two public defibrillator units within the village. One unit is fitted to the village hall outer wall facing Murcott Road cabinet ID number AR84. The other unit is fitted at The Tally Ho Hotel and is located on the building end wall in line with the hotel car park entrance cabinet ID number AR82. To gain access to either unit you need to dial 999 and speak with the ambulance service. The call desk operator will decide if the use of a defibrillator is necessary. If asked for then tell the call desk operator the ID number on the cabinet door. You will then be given the code number to open that door. Motor Park The meetings schedule can be seen on the Parish website. The calendar of events that take place at the Motor Park is subject to the terms and conditions of the planning agreement between the landowner and CDC. The Parish Council does not have any control or authority over that agreement or on what events take place. If you have any concern(s) regarding the Motor Park then please them to Michelle Jarvis at CDC. to; Michelle.Jarvis@Cherwell-DC.gov.uk Grant money for sports facilities The Parish has an entitlement from CDC to grant money that can be used for improving the off-site sports / changing room facilities. The Parish Council and the VHMC are considering using this money towards improving / extending the dressing room / shower / storage facilities at the village hall. The Parish Council would be very grateful if someone with suitable building experience could come forward and help us look into the feasibility of doing this. If you think that you could help us then please let us know. Dog Poo As stated in last month s magazine article on this subject, the Parish Council contacted the dog warden at CDC. He has been into the village and has put up advisory notices about dog fouling. He will also be visiting the village from time to time in an effort to catch people who do not pick up after their dog(s). Please be aware that coming into direct contact with dog poo can easily result in adults and children (especially children aged one to four years) contracting a disease called Toxocariasis. This disease causes serious illness and even blindness. Dog poo can also contain Parvovirus which can be fatal to other dogs. If you or anyone you know sees people not picking up after their dog(s) then please report it to the CDC dog warden and let the Parish Council know that you did so. The dog warden s name is Christopher Cundy and his telephone number is If photographic / video evidence of the offence can be captured then so much the better. Should you wish to pass on evidence to the Parish Council instead then that s fine the Parish Council can forward the information to Christopher.

14 your village, your news... your village, your news... Illegal drug use The Parish Council has been advised that illegal drug use is taking place on and around the football field area. If you are aware of or see this happening anywhere in the village then please report it. You can make the report anonymously by telephoning Crimestoppers on or you can fill out an anonymous form online. Litter It is disappointing to see the number of empty bottles, drink cans and general rubbish items that are thrown into hedges and left on the playing field area, playground areas and the village green. PLEASE dispose of these in the correct way don t just walk off and leave your rubbish behind. Bottles and drink cans laying in the playing field area and village green are going to be broken / shredded should they get run over by the gang mower used to cut the grass. This poses an obvious danger to adults, children and pets who walk and play on these areas. If you see bottles and / or cans laying in these areas please take the time to pick them up and put them in a rubbish bin. If you witness people leaving bottles / cans / litter in public spaces then please report it to CDC. If the problem persists, CDC can assign an enforcement officer to get involved. Roads Road issues can be reported to OCC via the website Anyone can load this up and have a look at what issues have been completed and what issues are still outstanding. If you notice something wrong with our roads then please check this website to see if the problem has already been logged. If it hasn t then please feel free to put in an appropriate report. The potholes in the road in Lower Arncott have been reported. Oxfordshire Highways have inspected them and have advised that the current state of the potholes is acceptable to them. They are not currently serious enough to be repaired. County Councillor Dan Sames advised us that the remarking of the white centre lines in Norris Road is on OCC s work schedule but no date was given as to when this work would get done. The entry sign to the village in Lower Arncott is missing and has been reported. The Parish Council is waiting for the OCC street sign department to advise when a new one will be fitted. Street Lights The new street lights have now been connected to an electricity supply. The old street lights need to be removed but, at the time of writing, no date has been given as to when this will happen. National Plant Monitoring Scheme If you have an interest in wild plants and would like to volunteer to help collect data and information about different habitats near to where you live then please send an to support@npms.org.uk or phone them on Summer Aunt Sally league The Plough pub in Arncott is looking for players to sign up for the summer Aunt Sally league competition. Matches will be played home and away on Wednesday evenings beginning at 8:30pm. If you fancy playing Aunt Sally for your local community and pub then please call in at The Plough and have a chat with Josh or D about signing up and fixture dates. You can also text / ring Josh on Facebook If you use Facebook you can have a look at the Parish Facebook page for village news and

15 information. Village Hall / VHMC Meeting dates for the VHMC are the last Tuesday in each month except for December when no meeting will be held. Notes from meeting held 29th August 2017 Summer Fete There was a very good attendance at this year s fete, around 200 people in all. We raised 1125 for the upkeep and maintenance of the village hall, and we would like to thank our sponsors, Carpet Queens of Bicester, S & S Motors of Arncott, Three Corners Garage of Ambrosden, The Hair Lounge of Ambrosden, Village Fish & Chips, Arncott Supermarket, and Spencer Rust Fruit & Vegetables. Thank you also to the people who generously donated prizes for the Summer Draw and the Tombola, and everyone who sold the draw tickets and helped on the day. The lists of the Summer Draw prize winners are on the village notice boards Lettings These continue to be very good for September and October, and provide a valuable source of income. Hall Floor Following problems with an area of the floor, causing the oak tiles to lift, a temporary repair has been made and we are looking at a long term repair and other possible types of flooring. Future Events Children s Christmas Party - Arncott Village Hall Saturday 9th December till Food,Entertainment and a Visit from Santa Children age 0 to primary school age. Free for children who live in the Village, 3 from outside of village. Contact either: Vicky Jenny Catherine Fun quiz night. Arncott village hall. Saturday 14th October. Doors 7.30 for 8.00 start. Teams of up to 6. Bring a team or join others on the night includes supper. Bring your own drinks. Raffle. In aid of Heads up cancer charity and Parkinson s disease. For catering it is helpful though not essential to let us know you are coming. Mandy Stuart Seniors Christmas lunch 6th January 2018 As previously mentioned there will be a small charge for people who do not live in the village who wish to attend these events. Ska Martial Arts Tang Soo Doo. New martial arts and fitness class at Arncott Village Hall every Monday from 6.45 till All welcome from 5 years - 65 years. First lesson is free. Please contact Sean on or turn up on the night. Dance Fitness Every Wednesday at 7.15 at Arncott Village Hall per person. Come along and enjoy a good evening. Craft Club Every Thursday Everyone welcome from 6.30 p.m. onwards in the Greenfields Common Room

16 your village, your news... your village, your news... Arncott Friendship Club The friendship club has being going now for about 25 years and at one time there was about 40 members, but due to the sad loss of members and some moving away our numbers have dwindled. We meet in the Greenfields common room the second Wednesday of the month at 1.45pm till 3.45pm. Our activities include plenty of tea/coffee drinking, along with cakes, sandwiches and a good old chat. We do a quiz, bingo and of course a raffle. Why not come along and meet up with old friends and make new ones. For more information ring Christine on CLUB WINNERS 94 T Chiddle 205 G Newell 128 M Gomarshall 72 B Jeacock 75 C Robinson If anyone is interested and would like to start or rejoin the 300 Club, please contact Wendy Wilkins by at Arncott300club@gmail. com. Material required for the Parish magazine Please it to marionmoore20@btinternet. com by 13th of the month 16

17 For a free no obligation quotation call Mike on T: M: E: mike@mhes.co.uk :

18 Robert L. Darvill & Son Plasterers. Tel: Mob: robertdarvillplastering.co.uk

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20 Blackthorn News BLACKTHORN VILLAGE HALL Recent Events Greek Night On Saturday, 15th July we held a Greek Night at the Village Hall. We wanted to try something a little different. 32 people attended and were treated to a 4 course Greek meal followed by an opportunity to learn some Greek dancing. Those who took part in the dancing made a real effort, quickly learning the steps and kept the other guests entertained! All in all, it was great fun. We plan to do another event along those lines, possibly a Spanish evening, so keep your eyes open for details of that. Coffee Morning After a very successful well attended coffee morning on the 7th September. We will have one every month all are welcome. The next coffee morning is Thursday 5th 11 am: Hosted by Janet & Caroline. Please tell all your neighbours and friends to come along. Forthcoming Events Sat 7th Oct Autumn Quiz Night Sat 28th Oct Kid s Halloween Party Sat 11th Nov Movie Night Thoroughly Modern Millie Sun 3rd Dec Christmas Carols and Lights Sat 9th Dec Kid s Christmas Movie Evening Pub Nights open at 7.30pm in the Village Hall Frid 29th Sept Pub Night Frid 27th Oct Pub Night Frid 24th Nov Pub Night Frid 22nd Dec Pub Night Look out for the flyer and reminders on Blackthorn village Facebook page. PARISH COUNCIL Parish Councillors are: Jenny Lamont (Chair) Randal Rue (Vice Chair) Sandie Stevenson Richard Burden Diane Procopiou Rachel Lamont Tracey Charlesworth (Clerk) Meetings are usually on the first Thursday of the month. Correspondence should be through the clerk. clerkblackthornpc@gmail.com Agenda, minutes, etc are published on the notice board outside the village hall, and on the website 20

21 Blackthorn Village Play Park Dear All The Blackthorn Village Play Park is certainly being well used and like its inception and funding the maintenance is a voluntary community activity. Several attempts have made to provide adequate rubbish collection points; (there are blue and green wheelie bins) so it is disappointing to note that used nappies, sweet wrappers and remnants of packed lunches are seen adorning the grassed and copse landscapes. Blackthorn welcomes visitors to its park but would kindly request that used nappies are either put in nappy sacks and disposed of in the green bin or taken home and that recyclables from packed lunches and sweets are disposed of in the blue bin. New stickers will be added to show which the park bins are. We rely on our local volunteer force to keep the park clean and would like to make their tasks easier. This is one of the most commonly used essentially oils and one that many people have in their cupboard ad is often included in many cosmetics/shampoos. However, adulteration of tea tree oil appears to be fairly widespread. One recent scientific study found that roughly half of 43 commercial samples tested in three analytical laboratories did not have the appropriate chemical composition consistent with authentic samples of Australian tea tree oil. As with most natural products, as they become popular, the unscrupulous try to take advantage of the buying public. Be sure you buy a reputable brand. If unsure, contact your local herbalist/ aromatherapist. If you have any news or other items you would like included please John Henderson at j_henderson@btinternet.com by the 10th of each month. Thank you Jenny Lamont Chair Blackthorn Parish Council OTHER Tea Tree Essential Oil Traditional use: as a natural antifungal, antiviral. The aborigines also used it for cuts, abrasions, and insect bites. During World War II, soldiers used it as disinfectant. In Australia in the 1920 s it was used in surgery and dentistry as an antiseptic. Modern uses include: acne (5% solution), impetigo, boils, topical infections, ringworm, and dandruff to name just a few.

22 Merton News MERTON NEWS COLLECTOR All completed and written news articles for inclusion in the following month s magazine should be sent to wendymeads@yahoo.co.uk by the 13th of the month. MERTON PARISH COUNCIL If you wish to contact a councillor, please use the following information: Rachel Foord: rachelfoord@aol.com, Pat Murphy: patmurphy153@btinternet.com, Ron Leaver: ronandfe@tiscali.co.uk, Kay Crowden: kaycrowden@hotmail.co.uk, Fred Foxon: fred.foxon@btinternet.com Tony Bradley: ajrbradley@hotmail.co.uk Parish Council meetings are held on the 3rd Monday of the month at the village hall from 7.30pm. (Subject to any last minute cancellations). Details of the agenda may be found on the notice board by the bus station. FLOODLIGHTING OF ST SWITHUN S CHURCH We would like to thank everyone who has supported this facility so far and if anyone would like to use it to celebrate or commemorate a special occasion could they please ring either or VILLAGE HALL and PLAYING FIELD - FOR HIRE If you are planning an event don t forget that the village hall is available for hire. There is also a playing field with football pitch available for hire, either for separate occasions or on a regular basis. If anyone knows of any football teams, or other clubs or organisations, like Brownies, Cubs, Martial Arts or fitness clubs looking for a venue, please, contact Kay Crowden on FREE FILM SHOWS IN MERTON VILLAGE HALL 2017/2018 The next in our 2017/18 season of Village Hall films will be shown at 7.30 pm on Thursday, 19 October. Set mainly in India, Lion is a 2016 biographical film based on a true story told in the book A Long Way Home by Saroo Brierley with Larry Buttrose. As usual, there ll be (free!) tea/coffee and biscuits afterwards to supplement any drinks and nibbles that folk bring along to enjoy and possibly share with others while watching the film. Further film shows are scheduled for the following Thursdays: 16 November, 21 December, 18 January, 15 February, 15 March and 19 April. These films are open to all residents of Merton and we would be delighted to welcome folk from neighbouring villages. Please send suggestions of suitable future films to patmurphy153@btinternet.com (or ). 22

23 your village, your news... your village, your news... MERTON PARISH COUNCIL WEBSITE he Merton Parish Council website can by Taccessed from the following address. mertonparishcouncil.co.uk/.

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25 OTMOOR GARDEN SOCIETY REPORT OCTOBER 2017 Have you ever looked up the definition of Summer? Well it is, and I quote, the warmest season of the year, in the northern hemisphere from June to August. That s all very well, but I wish someone had remembered to tell August! Anyway I hope you enjoyed your summer break and are raring to go for the autumn season when our programme of speakers starts up again. Over the summer we had a very enjoyable evening visit to Wendy and Dennis Price s stunning garden in Islip. Wendy showed us around and explained how she had developed the garden over the last few years into her interpretation of a modern day cloister garden. The planting was an example to us all of how it should be done, with lovely repetition of a minimum number of plants within the central area. Refreshments, organised by Alison, went down very well and the committee s stock of wine was certainly depleted, and so it should be! Our final coach trip of 2017 will have been and gone by the time you read this, as will our talk by Andrew Mikolajski about climbing plants. Coming up on Tuesday 24th October at Charlton we have Christie Leary who will be talking on the subject of organic gardening. Christie is one of the founders of Goringon-Thames gardening club and a member of Garden Organic. She calls the talk My Organic Garden because she will tell us how she applies organic principles in her own garden. the back should be submitted in an envelope, no more than two entries per person. I would like to say that the entries have already been rolling in. Well I could say it, but it wouldn t be true! Actually one has rolled in thank you that person! Still early days as we haven t even had the September meeting yet. Please do participate, it makes it more fun. We hope to display them and let members vote for their favourites, with the top three appearing later in this publication. The winner will also receive the OGS competition cup for 2017 who needs Christmas, what more could you ask for! Such a busy time in the garden now. If you grow vegetables then you probably have beans, courgettes and tomatoes in vast quantities. Soups to make and freeze, jams to prepare for winter breakfasts and apples to juice for freezing or pasteurising. It is also propagation time, with cuttings to take to fill the greenhouse with new plants for next year. Bulb planting, weeding and generally keeping the show on the road for another month or so. By the time you ve done all that you ll be ready for that bowl of soup you made earlier! Happy Gardening, Judith Rawlinson For more details, or to join, contact Brian Eadle on At any of our autumn meetings you can hand in your entries for the OGS 2017 competition for the best Garden Photograph (taken by you). 5 x 7 inch printed entries with your name on

26 ANTIQUE & COLLECTORS MARKET KIDLINGTON METHODIST CHURCH In two halls at Oxford Road Kidlington OX5 2BP SATURDAYS 10.00am pm 2017 REFRESHMENTS October 21st November 18th No sale in December FREE ADMISSION Organiser: Graham Kirby grahamkirby316@gmail.com

27 Piddington News PIDDINGTON PARISH COUNCIL The next meeting will be on Tuesday 17th October at 7.30pm. If you have any concerns or questions the parish council is always keen to hear from you, details below. The first 30 minutes of our meetings are an opportunity for villagers to address the council. Agendas and minutes from the meetings are available to view on the village website and the two parish council noticeboards: meetings.html Councillors: Francesca Darby (Chair) Tel: Pam Feltbower (Vice Chair) Tel: Andrew Coleman Lynda Galloway Ken Howard Tel: Mike Nixon Mario Terzino Tel: PIDDINGTON CLP The CLP team have now produced a first draft of the plan in consultation with PPC, PVHMC and the church committee. Action points are being finalised with the intention of a final draft being ready at the beginning of October. Once signed off it is hoped it will be sent off for printing. WIDNELL PARK, THE JUBILEE RESERVE & PLAYING FIELDS The playing fields and meadow area will have their last cut in October. There are a number of jobs identified over the winter including the planting of indigenous bluebell bulbs in the wooded area. PPC will be looking for volunteers to help with these. More information to follow Sadly, some dog walkers have become remiss in their duties and are not picking up after their four-legged friends, even though there is a dog poo bin at the entrance to the playing fields. The parish council are investigating installing a poo bag dispenser to encourage more responsible behaviour and have also requested that Cherwell s dog warden take an active interest in the site. The fine if caught not picking up is There are two bins in the village: one opposite the entrance to Ludgershall Road and the other at Vicarage Lane. Please use them! If you are experiencing problems contact the parish clerk. RURAL POLICING Piddington recently sent a representative to the newly formed Community Resilience Group discussion evening comprising Thames Valley Police officers and local communities. The police currently cover 38 rural villages and Bicester itself. Having listened to concerns the 27

28 principle objectives taken from the meeting are to improve visibility and communication and tackle the increase in theft from cars. It is hoped that the next meeting will be held in on 1st November at the Community Room at Tesco Lakeview at 7pm. If you have any concerns you would like raised please contact Ken Howard. Regular relevant crime updates are now being provided by the police on their TV Alert system. You can sign up for these at AN EMERGENCY PLAN FOR PIDDINGTON Following the results from the CLP questionnaire the parish council will be working with the village hall committee and the church project funding group on an emergency plan for the village. A consultation paper is expected by the end of the summer. The group will also be addressing the use of the resilience grant money received from SSE for the purchase of emergency equipment. Oxfordshire County Council are holding a number of Community Emergency Plans and Resilience Workshops which members from the above groups will be attending. The events are open to the whole community. For more information telephone For more information on emergency planning issues please see the village website for help and advice org.uk/information-centre.html SSE PRIORITY SERVICE A number of services are being offered to people who may have special needs particularly in the event of a power outage. The parish council fully support this initiative. If you think you might find these services useful and would like to register or have questions about the offer, please contact the SSE care-team directly on WEIGHT RESTRICTION LIMITS You can report any breaches by contacting Oxfordshire County Trading Standards via their website or phone The website will need detailed information of the vehicle in question with a photograph if possible. Alternatively, you can contact our parish clerk with the full details including registration number and company name. ROAD ISSUES PPC have reported the issue of the road and kerb on Ludgershall Road and Thame Road to our county councillor along with the state of the railway bridge. It is hoped he will be able to put some pressure on Highways regarding a solution to both issues. TECHNOLOGY ADVISORS Do you have a good grasp of working with a computer or ipad and are willing to volunteer some time to support those still new to modern technology? Please contact Mario Terzino, who hopes to set up a group to help and encourage sceptical villagers to feel more comfortable. PIDDINGTON S DEFINITIVE FOOTPATH MAP This is now available to see on the village website along with details of Piddington s Circular Walk. If you come across any issues whilst out walking please contact the Parish Clerk, Anne Davies. information-centre.html

29 your village, your news... your village, your news... DEMS UNIT ANNUAL DRINKS Four members of PPC recently attended an event at The Defence Explosive Ordnance Disposal, Munitions and Search Training Regiment (DEMS Trg Regt) unit based in Arncott. This is a tri-service, multi-agency regiment training the Army, Navy and Air Force in all aspects of Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), High Risk Search and Ammunition Technical Management. The evening was incredibly informative and the parish council hope to organise a similar event for the village with the DEMS team. A PIDDINGTON AFTER SCHOOL CLUB? If anyone is interested in starting an after school club in the village hall, once a month on a Friday for games, tea and maybe wine for the grownups, please contact Sandra Paisley, or sandra.paisley@hotmail. co.uk. All proceeds to go to the upkeep of the playground. PIDDINGTON 200 CLUB WINNERS - AUGUST 2017 Here are the results of the August draw, made at the village hall Pop Up Pub, Friday 28th July 2017: 1st 025 Chris Loft 30 2nd 007 Anne Catherall 20 3rd 188 Margaret Hutchings 10 4th 037 Andrew Coleman 5 Draw held at Piddington Village Hall Pop Up Pub on Friday 25th August. Assisted by Sandra Carey and verified by Matt Barratt. DATES FOR YOUR DIARY 7th October - Apple Day and Harvest Supper at the village hall 13th October - Free Film Night at the village hall, sponsored by Age Concern. Doors & pay bar open 6.30pm; film starts at approx. 7.15pm. The film will be Bridget Jones s Baby. All welcome from local villages as well. 18th October Piddington Craft and Social Club, , 4 includes coffee. For more information contact Maggie or Chris This is the first session of what we hope will be a regular group. We will run it every Wednesday for a trial period to gauge interest. 27th October Halloween Party Pop Up Pub at the village hall fancy dress, (lucky dip fancy dress lottery-win a hamper), children s Halloween colouring competition, children s goody bags to be won, Halloween music! 17th November - Ukulele Night at the village hall, featuring Ukolade. Doors & pay bar open 6.30pm; music from 7.30pm. Tickets 5, on sale from 16th October from Ken Howard or any village hall committee member. 24th November Pop Up Pub at the village hall 25th November Saturday 2pm. Deck the Hall! The whole village is invited to come along to help decorate the hall for Christmas. Xmas music and refreshments. 29

30 2nd December - The Pantry at the village hall 10-2pm 5th anniversary! 15th December Village Christmas Drinks 7pm. Mulled wine and mince pies in the village hall, along with normal bar. VILLAGE UPDATES To receive updates on village matters and events please contact Francesca to be added to our growing list (francesca.darby@ piddingtonpc.com). Other ways to keep in touch: Piddington village website: Piddington village Facebook page: Piddington Swap Shop Facebook page: groups/ / for all things relating to The for general items of interest The Pantry blog: piddingtonpantry.wordpress.com Piddington village Facebook page:

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32 Call Russell Thompson on to discuss your advertising needs for the next edition and beyond

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34 Vet Report Lungworm in Dogs Whilst out walking the dog this year I ve been amazed at the numbers of large slugs on the ground. Now slugs are pretty ugly creatures but you might not know that they can also harbour a sinister parasite which is dangerous to dogs. The parasite is called lungworm, Angiostrongylus vasorum to be precise which is otherwise known as French heartworm. This worm is endemic in many parts of the UK, living in the wild fox population. The eggs are passed in faeces and are ingested by slugs and snails where the larvae develop. Pet dogs can then be infected by eating slugs and snails or inadvertently by licking the slime trails or even drinking water or eating grass that slugs have been through. The parasite develops in the dog where the adult worms live in the heart and pulmonary (lung) blood vessels. Eggs are laid in the lungs where they are coughed up, swallowed & passed again the dog s faeces; and the cycle continues. The effect of the parasite on the dog can be quite varied and extremely serious. Signs range from a cough and lethargy to spontaneous bleeding and death. Diagnosis can be made using a blood test, faecal test or by finding the eggs or worms in a lung wash (this is a special test done under anaesthesia when investigating lung disease). As always prevention is better than cure, so we now recommend lungworm prevention as a standard part of any preventative healthcare plan. Many traditional wormers don t kill lungworm so don t presume your dog is protected. As well as this, the parasite can cause disease in 1-2 mths so monthly preventative treatment is essential. Many vets will have a Preventative Healthcare Plan which includes routine parasite protection. As with anything, these plans aren t all the same and cheaper one may not even include lungworm protection; so check your plan to ensure lungworm prevention is included. Here are some key facts about lungworm in dogs: The parasite exists in most parts of the UK Lungworm infection can be deadly Prevention requires specific worming products given every month Best wishes Jason Williams Bicester Vets 34

35 Otmoor Womans Institute Otmoor WI September Meeting Members of Otmoor WI were entertained at their September meeting with a demonstration of watercolour painting by artist Brian Marshall. Following a brief history of watercolour painting and an introduction to the tools of the trade he demonstrated a range of techniques used to paint a picture. He completed a delightful snow scene using many of these techniques and another using a very large brush which swiftly brought a scene to life. As he painted he answered members questions and suggested sources for materials. He kindly donated the snow scene to the raffle in aid of Denman College. Following delicious refreshments served by Joy, Jenny and Judy upcoming events including a cookery demonstration and a designer day at Denman College were discussed along with other business matters including a reminder that this month the craft will be patchwork. The raffle for Denman was drawn and the winners of the competition for a miniature piece of art was announced with Marilyn in first place and Heather second. The October meeting is an open meeting where Simon Jones with be talking about and valuing antiques. Dates for the Diary (CCH) Charlton Community Hall (MVH) Murcott Village Hall October 10th (CCH) 7.45 Antiques Roadshow Simon Jones. Open meeting all welcome October 19th (MVH) 7.30 Coffee, Craft and Cake November 14th (CCH) 7.45 Laughter Yoga Caroline Edwards November 16th (MVH) 7.30 Coffee Craft and Cake For further details please contact Virginia on

36 Advertising & Contacts Cost of advertising (per month) Ad. Size Black & White Width (mm) Height (mm) 1/8 page /4 page /2 page Full Page Measurements are in mm - no bleed. All adverts should be submitted as a press-quality PDF. Any bitmap images or photographs used within the artwork must have a minimum resolution of 280 dpi. If you don t have artwork ready we d be happy to design it for you. For a specially discounted price and a personalised quote please contact us. To advertise in this publication please contact ParishMattersOxfordshire@gmail.com. SPECIAL OFFER! Pay for 2 issues, and get 1 free! Pay for 4 issues and get 2 free! Pay for 7 issues, and your advert will run for an entire year! Ads received before the 13th of the month will be included in the next month s edition. Adverts received after this date will be included in the following edition. The collection and editorial team Editor: Lucy Gordon parishmattersoxfordshire@gmail.com Advertising Russell Thompson rthom91543@aol.com Village News Collectors: Ambrosden Wendy Cheeseman wendy@plantalittlemagic.co.uk Arncott Marion Moore marionmoore20@btinternet.com Blackthorn John Henderson j_henderson@btinternet.com Merton Wendy Meads wendymeads@yahoo.co.uk Piddington Chris Howard chris.howard38@btinternet.com All items for the next magazine and all adverts should be given to the village collectors by the 13th of the month preceding publication, and to the editor by the 15th. 36

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38 M.O.T your car with us and we ll text you the following year to remind you it s due again