As our thoughts turn to Christmas we thank Catherine Bell, Class 6, of the primary school for our seasonal cover. Our thanks are also due to The Firs Garage and the Post Office for handling Newsletters and donations. We received £54. 93 in cash this time which included some generous amounts.
We hope to have the organisation of the Newsletter distribution in good hands for the next issue and will give you more details then. We have also had another offer of proof reading to keep in reserve and one or two offers to stand in as delivery people. Thank you all.
New entries and alterations for next year's Directory are coming in. If you wish to continue with your present entry you need do nothing except to put a small contribution in the News Letter box towards the cost of printing the booklet.
Thank you Diane, for your continued hard work with the Directory.
The Vital Issues File in the Post Office now contains additional information from Carers, Volunteer Connection and Cherwell District Council. The latter has sent a booklet entitled Countryside Winter Events. - guided walks, cycling and conservation.
A decision about the future of our library is expected early in December. Closure seems quite likely. Can we really let this happen? Is there no alternative? Are there no proposals which the village could make to Oxfordshire County Council to keep our library? Please note the letter from Dr Hurst about the surgery on page 6.
Don't miss Treasure Island at the Memorial Hall on Saturday, 29th November. Remember the successful Passion for the Countryside, some years ago? It's the same organisation which is putting on this production in conjunction with our Parish Council. It should be excellent. Tickets, £3. 50 and £1. 75 concessions, from the Post Office Stores. It would not break the bank!
Has anyone a video film of Passion for the Countryside? We know of two partial versions in the village but need more footage to make a composite video. Can you help?
If we happen to miss out a family event which you would like to see in the Newsletter it is because we don't know about it ( if we do know, we always consult you first). Please don't hesitate to contact us if you would like an event recorded.
Supermarkets now play a large part in the lives of most of us but we don't need to use them for all our needs. Everywhere village shops are closing. If we were to lose ours, we would lose not only choice in the goods we buy, but meeting places where news and views can be exchanged and where we are likely to meet someone with whom to pass the time of day. Please think consciously of supporting them a little more if only with small items. Our village shopkeepers work hard to supply us; it is very important that we don't lose them.
Sadly we have to report the deaths of Jack Grey, Gertrude Wyton, Patricia Fiske and Jan Mowitt and send our condolences to their families and friends.
We take this opportunity to wish you a Happy Christmas and a contented New Year.
LIZ PICKERING 737434 BARBARA HICKS 737017
DIANA BARBER, ADVERTISING, 737428
New Year's Resolution:
"I must get my Newsletter copy in the Post Office box
copy date" - 17th January 1998
Congratulations to Joe and Betty Bishop who celebrated their golden wedding on September 6th 1997
Jiordan Rebecca Riddell daughter of Kirsten Jane was baptised on 5th October 1997 at St Peter's Church, Hook Norton
Sophie Leigh-Anne Thomas daughter of Garnet and Wendy was baptised on 21st September 1997 at St Peter's Church Hook Norton
Congratulations to Len and Phyllis Tobin who celebrated their Diamon Wedding on November 6th 1997
Eleanor Jayne Poole daughter of Andrew and Janet was baptised on 7th September 1997 at St Peter's Church, Hook Norton
Becky Hughes was confirmed by Bishop Ronald Gordon, retired Bishop of Portsmouth on 16th November 1997 at St Peter's Church Hook Norton
BAREBONES
Still looking for Christmas presents for that special person?
Why not give him/her a video copy of Hooky's own Highly Commended Movie?"BARE BONES" Copies are now available at the Post Office or from Christopher Barry on 730407 at £8.50.
Don't delay - Buy today!
PARISH COUNCIL
October 9th: Litter was the main problem in the Play Area. Litter bins that had been re-instated had been pulled out again and Cherwell were unable to enter the area to empty the bins as they work to a time scale. It was agreed that the clerk would ask for a wheelie bin. Forty cubic metres of safety surfacing 'bark' will be ordered and whilst not the same as previous material it will do the job and is only one quarter of the price.
Trees are to be replaced in the play area in Spring.
A map of the village showing all the places of interest is being considered. Bloxham has a similar map displayed outside its Hall.
Subsidence at Coleman's End, blocked drains and pot holes in a few places will all be reported. The County said that their contract required drains to be cleaned once a year.
Grit bins are to be in place before the winter and the County has been out to mark the sites.
A clean-up in the cemetery has been organised for October 11th by James Clarke and Tite Lane is also to be tidied up.
'Treasure Island' is coming to the Village Hall on November 29th. Tickets will be on sale in the Post Office and the Village Stores. Watch for posters.
A member of the public asked if the Parish Council would purchase a tea urn for the Parish Hall and it was agreed that this would be useful. Mr Whitaker was asked to look into its purchase.
Plans for an extension to house new ladies toilets and provide for the disabled were passed around and given to the Clerk who was asked to try to get some quotes for the work.
Mr Whitaker said that he felt the precept should be discussed at the November meeting and said he would come prepared for this. He asked the Clerk if she would also supply figures.
November 6th: Seven councillors attended along with County Councillor Matthews and six members of the public.
Vandals had again been at work in the play area. Mrs Salter said that it was only a small group who were known by name that were causing all the trouble. It was agreed that the police should be asked to take the matter up. Graffiti was worse than ever and will have to be painted out.
The wheelie bin had been ordered - free of charge - and safety bark was to arrive on Friday November 7th. A litter bin which had been replaced by Mr Matthews had been pulled out and thrown aside within hours of its re-instatement. One bin had been found near Central Stores.
The meeting about the surgery had been a success with a firm promise from the doctors that there would be a permanent surgery in Hook Norton. Their planning permission for the temporary surgery had just been extended for a further period of one year.
The County promised some maintenance but said that any major repairs to any of the roads would not be possible in the foreseeable future due to lack of funding.
As Mr Whitaker was not at the meeting the discussion on the precept was postponed.
The Best Kept Village Report said the play area was impressive but spoilt by litter; cemetery and churchyard were well kept, sides of the road neat and tidy, particularly Queen Street; villagers were friendly and the Post Office offered an impressive variety of services.
The new tea urn was now in place and investigation into a hot water supply is still taking place.
The Clerk had not been able to get quotes for the proposed new ladies toilets as further detail was needed.
Councillor Matthews explained the situation regarding the proposed closure of libraries throughout Oxfordshire. He said that Hook Norton was now on a list of thirty that were being reviewed. The matter will be resolved early in December.
The Parish Council next meets on 4th December and 8th January 1998.
CARE GROUP'S HAPPY YEAR
The Hook Norton Care Group held their annual meeting in the Baptist Centre on September 9th when another happy and successful year was reported by officers.
Chairman Lee Morgan said the big disappointment was the failure to open on a second day. Should the idea come up again Oxfordshire County Council would have to give strict undertakings that there would be on-going funding.
Another disappointment, she said, had been the failure of the visiting scheme to really work. It was agreed to look into this again and try to make it more workable and acceptable because of the need in the village.
Oxfordshire County Council Social Service Development Officer Patricia Talmage told the meeting that funds would remain "frozen" because of the County Council being capped by Central Government. She said she planned an early visit to the Centre to see it in operation. Co-ordinators Sheena Maule and Ann McKee thanked all the volunteers and drivers for their continued support and Sheena urged volunteers to come up with ideas to entertain guests at the weekly sessions. "It has been another happy and successful year," Sheena said.
The Group is anxious to find more volunteers, especially those in the 40-50 age range. Anyone willing to give up a couple of hours on Mondays, once a month, to help at the Centre should contact Sheena on 730140. If anyone is interested they should drop in any Monday to see what is being done for the village's frail and elderly.
Lee Morgan has retired as chairman for family reasons and has been replaced by Keith Wood, with Patricia Fiske as vice chairman and Pam Wood as secretary.
Brian Clay continues as treasurer and Yvonne Higgins has taken charge of the weekly cake rota.
Sadly we have to report the unexpected death of Patricia Fiske. We would like to express to her family all our thanks for the unstinting service she gave to the Care Group.
PAT STRATFORD'S RETIREMENT
After working at Hook Norton Brewery for twenty seven years Pat Stratford retired on Friday, 31st October 1997. A party was held in her honour at the Sun Inn where family, friends and guests experienced a most enjoyable evening.
David Clarke, Managing Director, presented Pat with crystal liqueur glasses and also a crystal flower vase. Colin Heritage who started work at the Brewery at approximately the same time as Pat, presented her with various gifts on behalf of the workforce.
A special cake in the shape of "60" had been made by Philippa Collins.
Pat is currently on holiday in America with members of her family.
She is wished a long and happy retirement by all of her colleagues and friends.
A VOICE FROM THE PAST
I have had several phone conversations this year with Miss Betty Coppage who used to live on The Green. She was one of those who started and ran our village library years ago. Although she has been in Weston-Super-Mare for fifteen or so years she keeps in touch with Hooky through the Newsletter but misses the village she knew so well and has been specially upset at the possible closure of our library. I know she would love to hear from any of her old friends and I can let you have her address and telephone number if you would like to cheer her loneliness. Gweneth Edgington , 737451
OXFAM THANK YOU
Thank you very much to everybody in Hook Norton for their generosity during OXFAM Week 1997; you have made an invaluable contribution to the event's success.
I am delighted that you were able to send us a very impressive £582.28 to help Oxfam continue its support for people throughout the world as they struggle to make sometimes small, but important changes to their lives.
Whether working with a community in Uganda to bring clean water to a village, or giving training to women in Somalia on how to run market stalls, Oxfam relies on the funds that your time and effort have generated.
We will not know for another month or so just how much was raised during Oxfam Week, however, the response so far has been excellent and we are very close to reaching our target of £72,000. That means that Oxfam will be able to promise further support to the people we work with as they make plans for the future.
Once again, from Oxfam on behalf of our partners overseas, thank you.
Allison Willis. Oxfam Project Leader.
SURGERY
I would like to write to clarify the situation and to give an update of the present position regarding the surgery in Hook Norton.
Since moving to the temporary surgery we have been looking intensively for any site or buildings that would be suitable for use as a GP surgery. During this time nothing has been found that would be suitable - the main problem being the requirement, by the planning department, to provide a car park for a number of cars. We, therefore, employed two companies who specialise in finding suitable sites in villages for GP surgeries. After nine months of looking - one company concluded that there was nothing in the village that was suitable. The other company have,however, found a building/site that may be suitable. We are, at present, negotiating to purchse it; the owner has asked that its location remains confidential for now.
We have also extended the planning permission for the present surgery for a further one year, hopefully by which time, providing the sale goes ahead, the planning department gives permission for it and funding can be found, there will be a new surgery in the village. Dr Tim Hurst
A THANK YOU
to all our friends in Hook Norton. I recently found myself, unexpectedly, in the John Radcliffe hospital for nearly a month, leaving at home a worried husband to cope with both a full-time job and two children under five years old. As soon as our situation was known by our friends we were overwhelmed - in the nicest possible way - with kindest offers of help and support, from every corner of the village. So many people played such an important part in helping us cope during what was a very difficult time; even the children hardly noticed I was gone!
We cannot believe how lucky we are to have so many wonderful, sincere friends and live in such a caring community. A big, big thank-you, and God bless, to all who rallied round and helped carry us along. We could not have coped without your support. Sophia, Patrick, Oliver and Felicity Fox
LEUKAEMIA RESEARCH FUND
The annual Coffee Afternoon and Sale was held on Saturday 8th November at Scotland House. This event was again wonderfully supported and the Clarke family are indeed grateful to all who attended or who helped in any way at all.
A sum in excess of £1,700 was raised and daily this total is rising as kind people continue to hand in cash gifts - some from those who were for various reasons, unable to be present at the sale. Thank you and God Bless You All. Paula Clarke
HOOK NORTON SILVER BAND
The Annual Bill Clarke Memorial Concert took place in St Peter's Church on Sunday, 19th October. The programme was a varied one spanning the music of Strauss to Madness via Gershwin. It was enormously enjoyable and the band provided us with an uplifting performance. The Chairman, Steve Ashby, thanked Susan Jepson for her work as band secretary over the past twenty months. Due to a fall sustained on the previous day, Susan was unable to attend the concert but sent a message, thanking the band for their gift of a plant arrangement, which was conveyed by John Wheatley.
Steve appealed for anyone - regardless of age - who is interested in joining the Learner's Band (who performed at the end of the first half) to contact Jackie Plumb on 01295 265737. Following a collection, £264 was distributed equally between the Churchill Hospital Cancer Research programme and St Peter's.
The Silver Band will be playing carols around the village on 21st December between 10.00am and 12.15pm. They will also be playing in Banbury outside Tesco (Saturday 6th & Tuesday 16th December) and at Sainsbury's (Tuesday 23rd December). The collection this year is for Age Concern (Banbury branch).
Could anyone who has any anecdotes/photos/cuttings/articles pertaining to the band's history please contact Trevor Shepard 01295 720640 or me. Thank You.
Charlotte Bird, Secretary, 737531
The Clarke family are grateful to the Band for wishing to continue these concerts. Apparently they like playing in St Peter's - something to do with the wonderful acoustics. Long may this annual event continue. It was particularly pleasing to have two numbers played by the Junior Band which were much appreciated by the audience. 'Junior' did not refer only to the age of the participants but also reflected the short time they had been playing a musical instrument.
HOOK NORTON JUNIOR YOUTH CLUB
Open on every Tuesday 7.00pm 'til 8.30pm. Subs are only 50p per session for all young people aged 9 - 11.
We have a wide range of activities both inside and outside the youth club e.g. Volleyball, Uni-hoc, Parachute games with a crash mat, our own computer games console and disco equipment.
We have just been visited by the A-Team from Oxfordshire Association for Young People who bring in a wide range of equipment for us to use at very little cost, such as a bouncy castle.
We are planning to take a group of children midnight ice skating at Alexandra Palace in London at the start of December which is a very large event; everyone going to this event will be ice skating 'til 4.00am. We are also planning a residential for three days sometime in the summer of 1998 during half term breaks, at Baskerville Hall Hotel in Wales which offers a very large range of activities, including Quad biking, canoeing, abseiling and a lot more with fully qualified instructors.
If your child is interested in becoming a member or would like to see some of the activities we do, contact Joe on 737245 or Adrian on 737448 or call in to the youth club (next to the library) on a Tuesday night.
FRIENDS OF HOOK NORTON SCHOOL
Following the tremendous success of last years CHRISTMAS FAYRE, we will be doing it again this year on Saturday 6th December, from 1.00pm to 4.30pm at the school.
A wide variety of stalls and activities will be on offer, such as various Craft Stalls, a Bottle Stall, Toy and Book Stall, Lucky Dip, Children's Xmas Gift Stall, Raffle, Numbers of Sweets in a Jar, Chocolate Tombola and the ever popular Cake Spin game. Mince pies, teas and biscuits will be served to the accompaniment of live festive music. Beautiful Christmas cards designed by four of the children, professionally printed will be on sale at £2 per pack of 10 and the winners of the Grand Christmas Draw (tickets on sale now - prizes are two mountain bikes and a sports watch.
There is lots of fun to be had and the money raised will go towards basic necessary equipment for all the children in the school. Thank you for your continued support.
HOOK NORTON CHARITABLE ASSOCIATION
A small group of committee members posted leaflets through virtually every door in the village with information about the Charitable Association, inviting people to help. It seemed to have worked - I can't remember ever seeing the room so full at the open meeting on Tuesday 11th November! It was wonderful to see so many new faces and all so willing to help! We have a new Chairman, Roger Hawkins, and many other roles were also filled. (Don't let this stop you coming to the next open meeting however, as we always need fresh views and ideas and someone to listen and give feedback on ours!). Things are under way - the main attraction has been selected, start-up letters have been sent, concert plans are coming along and we should be ready to go full steam ahead in the new year. The Rural Fayre will take place on July 5th 1998.
Watch this space for further news of what's happening with the Charitable Association and make a note in your diary for 13th January 1998 - the next open meeting, 8.00pm in the Brewery Function Room. If you were unable to make the open meeting in November but are still interested, please ring Andrew/Rachel Parton on 737617 or Di Henderson on 737311.
GREENLAND 1997
My feelings before the expedition were mixed - a concoction of anxiety, fear, excitement and anticipation. I now realise that those feelings were the result of one single factor - the unknown. Up until the moment I reached Greenland I had no idea of what to expect, and getting off the plane on that hot Thursday was probably the first time I have been stuck for words - the breathtaking views of mountains and icebergs completely enthralled me.
It soon became obvious that in a country such as Greenland things take time and the local travel arrangements were a nightmare. It took a week to transport 80 people across a very short distance on the map. This was to become my way of life for six weeks and plans that changed by the minute became routine.
Our groups were called Fires, as traditionally twelve was the number of people who could fit around an open fire. My group was Fire 1. I lived with five girls and six boys for the best part of six weeks, sharing tents, cooking food, washing and walking. They became my substitute family. Daily chores seemed so mundane at the time - I cherish those thoughts now. We shared three to a tent and cooked on primus stoves. I will confess that at 5.30am on a cold, windy morning, the only thing that inspired me to get up was the thought of not getting breakfast! Our lives became ruled by rations and mealtimes and food was often the topic of conversation. We washed in the lake (a bit cold at one degree!) or the river, downstream of where water was collected. Clothes were also washed in the river. We drank the water straight from the river and it was the nicest, cleanest water I have ever tasted. The toilets consisted of a simple hole in the ground behind a rock. Toilet paper was burned to enable the decomposition process to be at its maximum.
The science phase of the expedition lasted for two weeks and consisted of archaeology and botany. We visited archaeological sites at various places along the fjord, most of which had already been found and recorded. We did however discover new sites in some of which you could see human remains. We kept records of every site we came across and all the material has been submitted to the Greenland archaeological authorities. Our study will enable them to record the new sites found and produce a better, more accurate map of the area. Botanical studies were also carried out at each site found. From these studies, we discovered the types of vegetation growing in South West Greenland. Together with the knowledge we had acquired from our living experiences, this material will be used to publish a leaflet, detailing information concerning flora, fauna, fires, water, archaeology, paths and litter. The leaflet will be available in the Tourist Office in Nanortalik next year, and is designed to enable a remote area of such beauty to be protected, by informing tourists of the best way to live and how to treat such a delicate environment. I feel both proud and privileged to have contributed in such a practical way.
The adventure phase was very exciting though demanding. We had to practise all sorts of safety techniques before being let loose, e.g. walking along fixed ropes with a helmet, harness, karabiners and prussock loops. We had to use ice axes and crampons which made walking difficult since you bore an uncanny resemblance to a duck! We worked on crevasse rescue, learning how to prussock out and we practised rope belaying. We learned how to ice axe arrest should someone on your rope fall over, and finally we learned how to dig a snow hole in case of being marooned. There was a radio check twice a day to ensure everyone was safe and to determine their exact location.
We had two long days of high altitude walks, the second being the best ever. We walked to find a snow col - literally a huge "snow bowl", surrounded by mountains the tops of which were lightly dusted with snow. It reminded me of icing sugar on a cake. The col was enormous and the tranquillity of such an untouched area was magical. I was stunned - the chances of someone else ever having been there was remote, and suddenly there seemed a point to going through the pain of blisters and walking with crampons. This was my Greenland.
And so our adventure phase was over and after taking a day to return to mountain camp, the mundane tasks of tidying, litter sweeping, loading and organising were left. These were to be our jobs for the next week. On our slow return journey to Narsarsuaq we lived anywhere - tents, an old hospital, a youth hostel - adapting our lives to our surroundings. I'll never forget my first hot shower, in Narsarsuaq - the first for five weeks!! All too soon we were off home and we waved goodbye to ice, snow, icebergs and mountains. A very tearful 72 people departed Stansted airport that night, pleased to be home yet sad at having to leave each other, each one tired, happy, and different. Strong friendships were forged - everybody had got on so well mainly because we had things in common. We had all shared in each others enthusiasm, were struck by the awe of such a place, and enjoyed walking, camping and science. But above all, the amazing sense of adventure we had experienced, through the scenery, danger and people, added a new, higher and stronger dimension to Greenland 1997.
Thank you so much for your support and sponsorship in making this trip possible Lucy Walker
BAPTIST CHURCH
By the time that this appears our new minister John P Taylor will have been inducted. John writes:-
Hello! Let me introduce myself. My name is John Taylor and I'm the new minister of Hook Norton Baptist Church. I grew up in the Yardley area of Birmingham and later served an apprenticeship with BSA motorcycles, qualifying as a toolmaker. In my early twenties I was called into Christian ministry and for the last 25 years I have served in the ranks of the London City Mission. During that time I worked with two Baptist churches, one in north-east London, the other in south-west London, as well as superintending a mission centre in Croydon. Over the last nine years I have ministered as Chaplain to the City of London police and London theatre workers.
This has been a memorable and eventful year for my wife and myself: we celebrated our silver wedding anniversary in April, received the call to the ministry in Hook Norton in June, saw our daughter Rachel married in July, bought a bungalow in Chipping Norton in September, moved our son Andrew into his first flat in London in October and moved ourselves from London at the end of the same month - phew!
Jane is continuing to work as acting head teacher at a school in Kennington, London, up until the end of this year but we are looking forward to meeting and getting to know the folk in Hook Norton and becoming involved in village life.
We wish you all a very happy Christmas and a peaceful 1998.
John has an office in the church, not in the hall. Going in the main door, the office is in the far right hand corner of the church. To be sure of finding John there, the phone number is 737315.
Our Christmas programme: Saturday 20th December - 10.00am - carol singing round the village - do come and join us. Sunday 21st - 10.30am - Carol Service; Christmas Eve 11.00pm Communion, Christmas Day, 10am Family Service. All are warmly welcome.
FILM SOCIETY
Zeffirelli's La Traviata is described as a knockout and seems just the film to enjoy on a December evening (13th) in the midst of pre-Christmas preparations. Placido Domingo heads a 'star studded cast'.
Our next presentation is Fellini's 81/2. Acclaimed a classic at the time, it is still worth seeing for a sight of Marcello Mastriano, Claudia Cardinale and Anouk Aimee.
Films are shown at the Memorial Hall and start at 8.00pm; supper at 7.15pm. Enquiries and supper bookings: 737411 or 730407.
W.I.
Members of the W.I. should now be expert at patchwork quilting after listening to guest speaker Sheila Hallam on November 11th who gave a talk on "Quilts in my Cupboard". She displayed some beautiful patchwork quilts from her collection, some dating from the mid 19th century, some from the 1930s and others more recent, all with interesting histories.
At the October meeting, Mrs Ashbridge took us on a tour of Cumbria with the aid of some lovely slides and quotes from Lakeland poetry. Her talk entitled "A taste of Cumbria" concluded with an invitation to sample some Cumberland sausage and Kendal Mint Cake. There will not be meeting in December as members, husbands and guests will be enjoying a Christmas dinner at the Gate Hangs High on December 9th.
Tuesday January 13th will be a social evening and programme discussion for the forthcoming year. Rachel Christie will give a talk on "Embroidery" on February 10th.
A group of members joined a coach trip to Salisbury in October with other North Oxfordshire Institutes and had a very enjoyable day. The outing to Buckingham Palace in September organised by Lee Morgan was also a tremendous success.
W.I. meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month in the Baptist Hall at 7.30pm.
Enquiries - Joyce Stuchbury - Chairman 737694.
Marion Roberts - Secretary 730214
COMMUNITY EDUCATION
With this Newsletter you will receive a copy of our Spring programme which includes 16 new courses. We are offering a £1 discount on any course in the programme of four hours or more if booked by the 7th January, so don't delay enrolling!
Children's French - We are looking for a qualified tutor to take this established class. Please contact us at the Community Education Office if you can help. Tel: 01608 730052
PRE-SCHOOL PLAYGROUP TABLE TOP SALE
Playgroup would like to thank all those businesses in Chipping Norton as well as the Post Office, The Village Shop, Sandra's Hairdressers and The Pottery in Hook Norton for their generosity.
We would also like to thank all the parents, friends and neighbours who donated things, baked cakes and turned up on the day to give us so much support.
We raised about £650 which will be matched £ for £ by our sponsors for the event, Barclays Bank, making our final total around £1300 !
Many thanks again to all those concerned. Nerys Wright.
"Hurrah! blister my kidneys!"exclaimed he in delight, "it it is a frost! - the dahlias are dead!" R S Surtees
RANGERS
Recently the Rangers have been bowling in Leamington and swimming at Swindon Oasis.
During meetings the Rangers have been making Christmas cards to sell and have also tried a couple of the activities from a pack of ideas produced by the Body Shop in conjunction with the Guide Association. One in particular was aimed to show you how to recognise when you are getting stressed out and how to deal with it - a very useful exercise for all concerned especially the Guiders! Another evening spent playing games such as charades and Taboo was also an hilarious way of de-stressing!
One of the Rangers attended the County International Selection Day and has been chosen to go to the Regional Selection Weekend in Norfolk at the end of November. These are the first steps on the way to being selected to represent the Guide Association at a camp or event abroad.
On 14th November, Hook Norton Rangers slept outside for the homeless people in Oxford. We all slept in cardboard boxes, and luckily for us it was quite mild. We were sponsored by friends and family. Between eight of us we managed to raise about £300. In the morning, 15th November, we held a jumble sale in the Memorial Hall, to raise funds. We raised about £180.
Already we have planned to go climbing, to France (Christmas shopping), have a beauty talk and go to the theatre, with a tour backstage.
GUIDES
At the end of September two teams took part in Girloree, the annual activity day held at Youlbury Scout Camp. One team came second out of thirty teams from all over the county. This was quickly followed by another success when one of our Patrols came first in the Divisional Patrol Competition This year's competition was based on the Crystal Maze; the Guides had to complete a series of challenges testing their physical and mental skills to beat 24 other Patrols around Banbury.
A campfire was held at Horley for all the Guides, Brownies, Rainbows and Rangers from Hook Norton, Bloxham, Sibford, Hornton and Horley. For once the weather was fine and dry and we all had a great evening.
We have had various people come into the meetings to help prepare the girls for their Fitness Badges, e.g. a dental nurse, beautician, aerobics instructor and school nurse. Several of the Guides have been awarded the badge.
Each of the patrols made a Guy Fawkes which, after judging, were all burnt on the village bonfire.
On Saturday 8th November we went to London to the Lord Mayor's Show and in the afternoon we visited the Guides Heritage Centre at our headquarters near Buckingham Palace. The following morning we took part in the Village Remembrance Procession and Service.
Future plans include helping with the Christingle Service and plans for our end of term party with all the other units are underway.
Trip to London
The First Hook Norton Guides and Guiders went to London to see the Lord Mayor's Parade. Afterwards we went to the Guide Heritage Centre. There was lots of information about Guides. They had models of Robert Baden-Powell and Mrs Baden-Powell. There were a lot of games to play, it was very interesting. When we'd finished going round we came home on the train. It was a long interesting and exciting day. Helen Donelly
Fitness Badge
At Guides we are doing many badges. At the moment we are doing about fitness which has covered exercise, a balanced diet, clean teeth, cleanliness, drugs and late nights. For each of these subjects we had speakers, who we thank. I think what the speakers said has made me and the others think. Lisa Jeffs
1ST HOOK NORTON CUB SCOUTS
It is all change in the Cubs. Janet has moved on to be full time Assistant Scout Leader and Steve has now taken over as Cub Scout Leader, with Anthony assisting. More help is still required but not necessarily on a permanent basis - please talk to Steve to discuss how you can help.
So far this term we have been tracking at the viaduct; swimming at Spiceball; made kites and attempted to fly them on a windless National Kite Flying Day, and, as part of our Road Safety Badge work, we investigated the limited number of road signs in the village!
We had an excellent turn out for the Remembrance Sunday parade, followed by 10 pin bowling at Leamington with the Scouts. A great time was had by all.
We are now looking forward to 'climbing the Andes' in celebration of this year's World Jamboree taking place in Chile and at the same time raising money for Children in Need. Steve Smith - Akela - Tel: 730138
1ST HOOK NORTON SCOUTS
We currently seem to be going in for 'firsts'. Recently we have welcomed girls into the Troop, invested new members by candlelight in a canal tunnel and had our first member gain his Chief Scout's Award. To carry this theme on we also intend to invest two members in the swimming pool.
The Scouts organised a jumble sale and made just over £120. Thanks to all who supported us. They had a barbecue on bonfire night, have been 10 pin bowling with the Cubs, attended the Remembrance Service, had an overnight stay in Birmingham and carried out various types of badge work.
New members are always welcome. Janet Duxbury
ST PETER'S CHURCH
This year's Craft Fair in the church on November 1st was even more successful than last year and was much enjoyed by everyone there.
Sadly the Nativity Tableaux will not take place this year but Barbara Rushbridge hopes to produce the performances next year.
Janet Collins is now a Licensed Lay Reader. The Licensing was held at Christchurch Cathedral on Saturday 25th October and the following day she was blessed and welcomed at the Eucharist at St Peter's. It was a very joyous occasion. Becky Hughes was confirmed on Sunday 16th November at a service conducted by Bishop Ronald Gordon, former Bishop of Portsmouth and Bishop at Lambeth.
Christmas Trees may be ordered where you see the poster, or phone Mary Powell on 737463. The price is £1.50 per foot and they can be collected outside the church on Sunday 14th December between 12 noon and 2.00pm.
Flowers for the Church for Christmas
If anyone is able to provide flowers or greenery for the church, they could be brought to the church on Monday afternoon December 22nd. Alternatively if you wish to give money towards flowers, please contact Barbara Rusbridge on 730041.
Christmas Services at St Peter's.
The Christingle Service is on Sunday 14th December at 3.00pm. The School Carol Service is at 7.00pm on Wednesday 17th December. The Wheelers and Squealers Christmas Party is on Thursday 18th December from 1.30pm to 2.45pm. Carols by Candle-Light will be at 6.30pm on Sunday 21st December.
On Christmas Eve. Holy Communion at 10.00am (BCP). The Crib Service 5.30pm. Holy Communion (Rite A) at 11.30pm.
On Christmas Day Holy Communion (BCP) 8.00am.
The Annual Church Sale will take place on Saturday 17th January at 2.00pm in the Memorial Hall. There will be all the usual stalls, White Elephant, Gifts, nearly new clothes, Books, Cakes, Produce and Plants etc. If you can provide items for these stalls please contact Mary Powell on 737463.
ST PETER'S CHURCH CRAFT FAIR
On Saturday November 1st St Peter's held another very successful craft fair. An even greater number of stalls than last year offered a marvellous variety of beautiful handmade work, and many of the skilled craftspeople gave excellent demonstrations of their crafts which added to the interest of the day.
A large number of visitors came and shopped enthusiastically from the glorious array of goods; there was certainly a lot of choice; every craft from pickles to paintings, all well made and well presented.
Mary Powell and her team of ladies served delicious home made lunches and teas in the Youth Club, many thanks to all who baked for us. The Christmas Hamper raffle was well supported and the first prize hamper was won by Phillipa Collins. Due to the generosity of several local businesses and individuals there were many other wonderful prizes. Grateful thanks go to all who helped in so many ways throughout the day and to all who supported St Peter's by attending and bringing families and friends.
When an event is over and the visitors and vendors have trundled away, there is always the somewhat daunting task of clearing up and putting the house back in order - Gods house has some pretty hefty furniture to replace and some very awkward nooks and crannies to clean! My very special thanks to the bunch who formed a cheerful cleaning team who though we were all tired, turned a task into a pleasure as we worked with good humour, proving that many hands really do make light work!
It was heartening that so many visitors again commented on the lovely atmosphere in St Peter's. Perhaps as they looked at the wonderful work and gifts spread before them in such a beautiful place, they thought of the 'ultimate craftsman', our creator, God, who gave us all the best gift in the world, simply wrapped, in a manger.
As we are plunged into the busy preparations for Christmas, instead of working ourselves into a frenzy and worrying over everything from Nativity Plays to presents, let's reflect on the quiet calmness and gentle joy of the real meaning of Christmas; that joy, that glorious and everlasting gift, is Jesus. Jan Hughes
HOOK NORTON WELCOME VISITOR CO-ORDINATOR
Jan Hughes has taken over from Rachel Johnston as the new co-ordinator. Welcome Visitors play an important role in helping new residents settle in their homes and surroundings with ease.
Each visitor is responsible for a small area or road in their own part of the village. They visit newcomers with a welcome pack which includes a copy of the village directory, a good source of information on all aspects of life and business in Hook Norton for all age groups.
For many years Rachel has organised the welcome booklet distribution to a small band of volunteer visitors. She is now retiring and we do thank her for all the time and effort she has given to this important task over the years.
With the recent growth of the village it would be helpful if I could enlist a few more volunteers especially from folk in Hook Norton's more recently built homes. I'm sure you remember how nice it was to see a friendly face and receive helpful information ? Could you do the same for someone else ? It may only be once or twice a year but is very satisfying. Do ring me, Jan Hughes on (01608) 737900 if you would like to know more. Thank you. JH
A TRIBUTE TO JAN MOWITT
It is with great sadness that I write this tribute to my dear wife, Jan Mowitt, who died peacefully on October 26th.
Born in Colwyn Bay she was very proud of her Welshness. She spent some of her school years in Switzerland. With her then husband, Frank, she arrived in Bloxham in March 1963, having taken over the licence of the Red Lion. She loved the village and the people and built up a superb clientele. She was an active and popular member of the Licensed Victuallers Association and was Secretary for some time. She also took over THE KNOLL, a guest house in the village and built up a successful business. On leaving the village they moved to Scotland and then to Lyme Regis but moved back to Hook Norton later. She was an avid gardener and remained active, nursing her husband and caring for her beloved King Charles Spaniels, Chico and Roger. In her younger years Jan was a keen dog breeder, specialising in Afghan hounds and Salukis. She had quite a lot of success at Crufts.
Jan remarried in June 1992 and enjoyed motoring and visiting old friends and family. Her last few months proved very stressful and difficult and after spells in the John Radcliffe Hospital she was admitted to Katharine House Hospice where she was treated with tender loving care. She will be sadly missed by her daughters, grandchildren and great grandchildren. The cremation was at Oakley Wood and tributes were read by Mrs Ethel Usher and Mr K Briggs - dear friends. Terry Mowitt, 1 Hill View.
VILLAGE VIDEO
Jo Chadwick has completed her video of some of the previous year's events in Hook Norton. It would make an ideal Christmas present for relatives and friends, or those who have left the village and who might have reason to be interested in our village affairs. Lots of local people appear at annual events including many shots of children. This is a good opportunity to get a record of Hook Norton on film as it is now.
Some of the forty events covered include Bonfire Night, the Rural Fayre, the Beer Festival, Remembrance Day, several weddings, The Bare Bones premiere, the Sports and Social Club and Harvest Festival.
If you cannot attend the above and would like a copy, you can get one from the Pear Tree, The Village Stores and the Post Office, or direct from Jo, herself, on 737199. Jo charges £8. 50 for the video. Her quite considerable costs amount to £5. 50 (including the cassette itself and camera films), and she is giving to the Charitable Association, £3 from each copy she sells.
LOCAL HISTORY GROUP
The evening of December 2nd looks set to be a rewarding one with members and guests enjoying excerpts from its recent Oral History project, looking or working on archives and generally having a jolly, festive time. A good time, for anyone thinking of joining, to get to know members.
David Eddershaw has put together a talk from material which he has gathered from local newspapers, entitled Victorian Values in Queen Victoria's Jubilee Year which he illustrates with slides. We look forward to this on January 6th 1998.
Meetings are held in the Study Centre at the primary school, usually on the first Tuesday of each month at 7.30pm. Enquiries: Howard Hicks on 737017 and Christopher Barry on 730407
BONSAI CLUB
meets each month - January 27th, February 24th, March 24th,
April 28th, May 19th, June 23th and June 30th (instead of July meeting) at the Community Education Centre, the Primary School, Hook Norton.
WELCOME CLUB
On 24th October the Club celebrated its birthday at a celebratory lunch at the Cotswold View Guest House at Nether Westcott. Some thirty members sat down to a gastronomic feast provided by Mr and Mrs Gibson. A very enjoyable afternoon for everyone.
On 7th November the Club held a further celebration when a birthday cake was brought along. Some ideas for the future were discussed. We have been invited to a Christmas Tea and an entertainment at the School on 18th December, and on the 19th we are to have the Club's Christmas lunch to be held at The Gate Hangs High. It is hoped that the year will be brought to a most happy close with a visit to the pantomime on 2nd January; we are going to see 'Jack and the Beanstalk' at the Oxford Playhouse.
BONFIRE NIGHT
The bonfire held in the Brewery field on November 5th proved to be a great success. Not only was it an enjoyable occasion but raised in the region of £700 for the National Fire Service Benevolent Fund.
Hook Norton's Fire Service would like to thank all those who supported them in any way.