GODSTONE & SOUTH GODSTONE Don’t forget the clocks spring forward 26th March March 2023 50p MAGAZINE Magazine available by annual subscription (email [email protected]) and from Godstone News and The Emporium, High Street, Godstone.
CATERHAM, OXTED & GODSTONE LIONS CLUB We support local needy causes If you would like to help your community and enjoy a lively social life with other like-minded people COME AND JOIN US Monthly evening meetings in Godstone Contact Tony on 01883 741809 Proctor The Parish Magazine cannot accept responsibility for the quality of goods and services offered by advertisers in this magazine. GODSTONE 01883 743889 07941 055006 Norman Godstone & South Godstone Magazine Annual Subscription £5 for 10 editions delivered to your door. Please contact Sylvia Pocock on 01883 712627 or email [email protected] Garden Army Garden Maintenance & Tree Care • Tree Surgery • Grass Cutting • Hedge Cutting • Ground Clearance • Fruit Tree Pruning Call for a free Quotation, or just some friendly advice. Call Amanda: 07540 146551 Email: [email protected] Populace Pilates Pilates Classes Let Pilates strenghen your body, improve posture and keep yourself mobile. Godstone Baptist Church Hall, Godstone Monday evenings Thursday mornings Wednesday evening 7:00 - 8:00pm 9:00 - 10:00am 6:30 - 7:30pm Also at St Aggies, Hurst Green [email protected] www.populacepilates.co.uk 07956 507431 All levels
1 WHAT’S ON AT A GLANCE WHB = White Hart Barn, Godstone; YC = Youth Centre, Godstone; SSC = St Stephen’s Church; SNC = St Nicholas’ Church; SJC = St John’s Church; SGSCP = South Godstone Sports Club Pavilion Date Event MARCH Time Page Wed 1 Godstone Gardeners’: Say it with poison!, WHB 7.30pm 32 Thur 2 British Horological Institute mtg, WHB 7.30pm 28 Sat 4 Café Connect, YC 10.30am to 12.30pm 20 Mon 6 Sing For Joy, GBC 10.30am 37 Tue 7 South Godstone Crafters, SSC 2pm 29 Tue 7 Scout’s Bag2School Collection, Endeavour 9am 23 Wed 8 RSPB talk: Flora & Fauna of Hampshire, WHB 8pm 29 Sun 12 The Children’s Trust Sponsored Walk Fundraiser 12 Sun 12 RSPB All-day Field Trip: Functon Creek/Shellness 8AM 30 Wed 15 GVA Village Forum, WHB 7.30pm 11 Wed 15 COPY DEADLINE for the APRIL Magazine 7 Sat 18 Friends of St Nicholas 50/50 Draw, YC 10.30am 7 Fri 24 QUIZ NIGHT St John Blindley Heath 7pm 8 Sat 25 Eden Museum’s Great History Quiz, Edenbridge 7.30pm 39 Tue 28 Daisy First Aid – Parent First Aid Class, SSC 7pm 34 Fri 31 Community Cinema: King Richard 7pm 40 2 nd & 4th Tuesdays – CAMEO Club, WHB 2.30-4pm 10 2 nd Tuesdays – WI South Godstone, SSC 8pm 25 3 rd Wednesdays – WI Godstone Afternoon, YC 2.15pm 27 4 th Wednesday – WI Godstone Evening, WHB 7.30pm 25 Mondays – Baypond Baby & Toddler Group, YC 9.30 – 11.30am 20 Tuesdays – Coffee & Co, SSC 10am-12noon 6 Tuesdays – Strictly Dance Class, The Pavilion, S Godstone 7.30pm 24 Thursdays – Mums’ United Baby & Toddler Grp SSC 9.30am-12pm 19 East Surrey Walkers & Ramblers Wellbeing Walks 35 Barn Theatre … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … 41 APRIL Tue 4 South Godstone Crafters, SSC 2pm 29 Sat 15 COGs Lions ABBA Chique Concert, Caterham 7pm 21 DETAILS OF USEFUL CONTACTS & LOCAL ORGANISATIONS ARE ON PAGES 46 & 47
To book a tour visit: www.godstonefarmdaynursery.co.uk NOW OPEN FLOWERS for FLORISTS Fresh flowers and florist sundries at wholesale prices to the trade and public Beautiful fresh flowers for your event: weddings, christenings, funerals, anniversaries, birthdays, office events Whether you want to do it yourself or want one of our expert florists to do it for you, we are the place to visit for all your flower needs. Why not join us for one of our regular floristry workshops? Open 7 days a week to 4pm 01342 892743 | [email protected] F LOWERS FORF LORI STS .CO. U K Eastbourne Road, South Godstone, RH9 8JB
䬀漀栀氀攀爀 䈀愀琀栀爀漀漀洀 匀瀀攀挀椀愀氀椀猀琀猀 䌀漀洀瀀氀攀琀攀 戀愀琀栀爀漀漀洀猀Ⰰ 猀栀漀眀攀爀猀Ⰰ 戀愀琀栀猀Ⰰ 琀漀椀氀攀琀 猀甀椀琀攀猀Ⰰ 琀椀氀椀渀最Ⰰ 䘀䄀䴀䤀䰀夀 䈀唀匀䤀一䔀匀匀 䔀猀琀愀戀氀椀猀栀攀搀 㤀㘀㤀 䘀伀刀 䘀刀䔀䔀 䔀匀吀䤀䴀䄀吀䔀匀 䌀伀一吀䄀䌀吀 匀椀洀漀渀 䬀漀栀氀攀爀 㠀㠀㌀ 㜀㐀㈀㠀㤀㠀 漀爀 㜀㠀㈀ 㘀㐀㐀㠀㘀㜀 猀椀洀漀渀⸀欀漀栀氀攀爀䀀最漀搀猀琀漀渀攀⸀渀攀琀 䘀漀爀 攀砀愀洀瀀氀攀猀 漀昀 漀甀爀 眀漀爀欀 瀀氀攀愀猀攀 瘀椀猀椀琀 漀甀爀 眀攀戀猀椀琀攀㨀 漀爀 昀椀渀搀 甀猀 漀渀 栀琀琀瀀猀㨀⼀⼀眀眀眀⸀昀愀挀攀戀漀漀欀⸀挀漀洀⼀䬀漀栀氀攀爀栀漀洀攀椀洀瀀爀漀瘀攀洀攀渀琀猀⼀ 䠀伀䴀䔀 䤀䴀倀刀伀嘀䔀䴀䔀一吀匀 䰀吀䐀 plumbing repairs and more – we also provide decorating services http://www.kohlerhi.co.uk PAChandyman serv ces Tel: 01342 843348 | 07711 939370 | www.pac-handyman.co.uk Free estimates & fully insured PAC Handyman Services is your local solution to everyday building, maintenance and installation projects within the home and garden.
FUNERAL PLANS FROM Alex Jones Independent Family Funeral Directors One of the few remaining family-owned, truly independent funeral directors in the area Peace of mind for you and your family Specify your wishes in advance Protection against rising funeral costs A range of flexible payment options Arrange the send off you want Alex Jones Funeral Directors 92 Station Road East Oxted RH8 0QA 01883 730383 www.alexjonesfuneraldirectors.co.uk We also have funeral homes in; Lingfield: 01342 832534 Forest Row: 01342 822399 Edenbridge: 01732 860047 £40 M&S vouchers with every plan Vouchers distributed 30 days after your plan is taken out – contact us for full details. FUNERAL PLANS FROM Alex Jones Independent Family Funeral Directors One of the few remaining family-owned, truly independent funeral directors in the area Peace of mind for you and your family Specify your wishes in advance Protection against rising funeral costs A range of flexible payment options Arrange the send off you want Alex Jones Funeral Directors 92 Station Road East Oxted RH8 0QA 01883 730383 www.alexjonesfuneraldirectors.co.uk We also have funeral homes in; Lingfield: 01342 832534 Forest Row: 01342 822399 Edenbridge: 01732 860047 £40 M&S vouchers with every plan Vouchers distributed 30 days after your plan is taken out – contact us for full details. FUNERAL PLANS FROM Alex Jones Independent Family Funeral Directors One of the few remaining family-owned, truly independent funeral directors in the area Peace of mind for you and your family Specify your wishes in advance Protection against rising funeral costs A range of flexible payment options Arrange the send off you want Alex Jones Funeral Directors 92 Station Road East Oxted RH8 0QA 01883 730383 www.alexjonesfuneraldirectors.co.uk We also have funeral homes in; Lingfield: 01342 832534 Forest Row: 01342 822399 Edenbridge: 01732 860047 £40 M&S vouchers with every plan Vouchers distributed 30 days after your plan is taken out – contact us for full details. FUNERAL PLANS FROM Alex Jones Independent Family Funeral Directors One of the few remaining family-owned, truly independent funeral directors in the area Peace of mind for you and your family Specify your wishes in advance Protection against rising funeral costs A range of flexible payment options Arrange the send off you want Alex Jones Funeral Directors 92 Station Road East Oxted RH8 0QA 01883 730383 www.alexjonesfuneraldirectors.co.uk We also have funeral homes in; Lingfield: 01342 832534 Forest Row: 01342 822399 Edenbridge: 01732 860047 £40 M&S vouchers with every plan Vouchers distributed 30 days after your plan is taken out – contact us for full details. FUNERAL PLANS FROM Alex Jones Independent Family Funeral Directors One of the few remaining family-owned, truly independent funeral directors in the area Peace of mind for you and your family Specify your wishes in advance Protection against rising funeral costs A range of flexible payment options Arrange the send off you want Alex Jones Funeral Directors 92 Station Road East Oxted RH8 0QA 01883 730383 www.alexjonesfuneraldirectors.co.uk We also have funeral homes in; Lingfield: 01342 832534 Forest Row: 01342 822399 Edenbridge: 01732 860047 £40 M&S vouchers with every plan Vouchers distributed 30 days after your plan is taken out – contact us for full details.
Suzanne Otto PG Dip. Psychological Therapies (CBT) Cognitive Behaviour Therapist www.suzanneotto.org
Fox and Hounds Tilburstow Hill Road, South Godstone, Surrey, RH9 8LY 01342 893474 [email protected] The Fox and Hounds is a traditional historical country pub with dining, dating back to 1368 AD - Specialising in local ales, local produce from nearby Farms and fresh fish dishes. We also serve a range of cocktails and have an extensive Wine List. Our new opening times are:- Mon – Sat – 12 -11pm (Kitchen closes 9pm) Sunday – 12 Noon – 10pm (Kitchen closes 8pm) Come and visit our newly refurbished garden with covered garden room and individual pods, all with heaters. Dogs are more than welcome in the bar area and garden. Now taking bookings for the Festive Season WE ARE PROUD TO ANNOUNCE WE HAVE BEEN SHORTLISTED AS FINALISTS IN THE GREAT BRITISH PUB AWARDS FOR BEST PUB OF THE YEAR. Nick, Ellie and the team at The Fox and Hounds look forward to welcoming you. GODSTONE AND SOUTH GODSTONE MAGAZINE ADVERTISING RATES PER ANNUM 10 editions per year April - March Circulation – c. 500 homes locally Whole Page (A5 portrait) £250 Half Page (landscape) £140 Quarter Page (portrait) £75 Fifth of a Page (landscape) £75 Tenth of a Page (landscape) £45 If you would like to advertise in this Magazine, please contact Alison McCormick email [email protected] or telephone 01883 744883
Fox and Hounds Tilburstow Hill Road, South Godstone, Surrey, RH9 8LY 01342 893474 [email protected] The Fox and Hounds is a traditional historical country pub with dining, dating back to 1368 AD - Specialising in local ales, local produce from nearby Farms and fresh fish dishes. We also serve a range of cocktails and have an extensive Wine List. Our new opening times are:- Mon – Sat – 12 -11pm (Kitchen closes 9pm) Sunday – 12 Noon – 10pm (Kitchen closes 8pm) Come and visit our newly refurbished garden with covered garden room and individual pods, all with heaters. Dogs are more than welcome in the bar area and garden. Now taking bookings for the Festive Season WE ARE PROUD TO ANNOUNCE WE HAVE BEEN SHORTLISTED AS FINALISTS IN THE GREAT BRITISH PUB AWARDS FOR BEST PUB OF THE YEAR. Nick, Ellie and the team at The Fox and Hounds look forward to welcoming you.
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3 CHURCH SERVICES UNITED BENEFICE of St Nicholas’ Church, Godstone, St Stephen’s Church, South Godstone, St John’s Church, Blindley Heath. Date Place Time Service Sunday 5th St Nicholas’ 9am Book of Common Prayer St Stephen's 10.30am Family Service St John's 10.30am Holy Communion St Nicholas' 10.30am Holy Communion Sunday 12th St Stephen's 9am Holy Communion St John's 10.30am Holy Communion St Nicholas' 10.30am Holy Communion Wednesday 15th St Mary’s Chapel 10am Book of Common Prayer Sunday 19th St Stephen's 9am Holy Communion Mothering Sunday St John's 10.30am Holy Communion St Nicholas' 10.30am Morning Worship Sunday 26th St Stephen's 9am Holy Communion St John's 10.30am Morning Prayer St Nicholas' 10.30am Holy Communion INCREASE IN SUBSCRIPTION PRICE OF MAGAZINE _____________________________________________ Thank you to everyone for buying the Magazine and we hope that, in spite of a necessary price increase to £1 a copy (£10 annual subscription) from 1st April, you will continue to do so. It is at least 15 years since the last increase in price which was from 30p to 50p. I think you will all agree that during those 15 years prices for most other things have increased significantly – especially the price of electricity and paper, which have gone up dramatically these past few months. We have been able to negotiate a set cost with our printers, Enroute, which, from 1st April, will include adding COLOUR to the Magazine, which we hope you will appreciate and enjoy. So, PLEASE continue to support this villages magazine – it has contact details for everything local, not to mention articles keeping us up-to-date with what is happening in the villages. We would also ask you to support our advertisers as without them the Magazine would cost considerably more. Thank you. The Committee
4 FROM THE CLERGY What’s your Treasure? I think it’s a fair assumption to say that most people reading this will not be pirates looking for (or maybe hiding) treasure on some remote island and marking its whereabouts on a slightly rough round the edges map with a big red ‘X’ to mark the spot. But what is your treasure? Perhaps its some precious jewellery or a significant gift from a loved one, maybe it’s a sentimental object that can never be replaced or even an antique item that one day will make you millions! Treasure will mean different things to different people. As a young child I was given some old coins. These old coins included the old One Penny, the Three Pence and the more recent but old Ten & Five pence coins. I loved them, they were like treasure to me. I kept them in a money box and enjoyed getting them out and looking at them, holding them and simply owning them. I don’t do that anymore, but I do still have these coins, and they are kept in the same money box. Years later I wondered if they were of any actual monetary value, my quick google search soon revealed that they were not worth much at all, but that didn’t matter, it is still my treasure! I can’t quite believe that it’s March 2023 already, especially when I think of all that has already happened this year and what is currently happening in the world and our Nation. It can be easy to lose heart and feel a bit despairing about everything. So, with that in mind I wanted to offer some words of hope and encouragement. I don’t know how you are feeling or thinking, what you are experiencing now, it could be a mixture of the good and bad, the painful and the frustrating, the monotonous and the exciting. We must be careful not to take words from the Bible out of context as this can sometimes lead to a misunderstanding, however I also believe God speaks through His word, even sometimes out of context in different ways and at different times. So, whether you are struggling or on top of the world, I pray God speaks to you through these words. “… your life is safe in the care of the Lord your God, secure in his treasure pouch!” (1 Samuel 25:29 - NLT) This text comes at a time when David (soon to be King) was on his way to punish Nabal for not giving him or his followers any food. Abigail (Nabal’s wife) had gone to meet David and intercede on her husband’s
5 FROM THE PARISH REGISTER FUNERALS Wednesday 25th January Barbara Sizer behalf, recognising that the Lord had chosen him to be King, she pleaded with him not to be hasty and to reconsider. Abigail spoke this promise to David, reminding him that he had known Gods leading and hand upon his life from a young age. David took her advice and decided to turn around and change his mind. This promise gives us an insight into how God loves us, which I pray gives us hope and encourages us. Here are three things that stand out to me from this verse, when we give ourselves to God. We are God’s Treasure. How incredible is that! Just read those words again. This is how valuable we are to the Lord and in the light of the New Testament we know that Jesus paid the ultimate price for us, His life for Gods treasure. It’s what makes Easter so significant - God considers us precious and pictures us as fine jewels, gems, and metals, and he wants us to know how valuable to Him. We are Secure – close to Him A treasure pouch is designed to be kept close to the person holding it. Just imagine your own treasures!! God longs to keep us close to himself, that we may know we are secure in him, in his love, in his hands, in his leading. Secure in our faith as we trust and follow Him. As James 4 puts it ‘draw close to God and he will draw close to you’. We are Safe in the Lord. Safe doesn’t mean bad or hard things won’t happen to us – I’m afraid that’s life! But it does mean that we can trust in the Lord – FULLY. I once heard a missionary say, “Christians are immortal until God decides to bring us home”. We are safe in the care of the Lord, we are his treasure, we are close to him and with all the highs and lows that life throws at us we are safe in his care. Perhaps you don’t know God. Perhaps you don’t know God in this way. Whatever your treasure is – know that you are God’s treasure – BUT he wants you to know him, to know the promise from our verse (above) for yourself. May you find comfort, encouragement and hope in these words. Mark Humm
6 DELIVERER OF MAGAZINES FOR SALISBURY ROAD Unfortunately, the person who has delivered 10 magazines to houses in Salisbury Road and four to houses on the Oxted Road has had to retire due to family commitments. Is there anyone local to that area who could take on this 10 times a year delivery round? It is probably the easiest round we have so would ideally suit someone who lives in that area. If you think you could help, please let me - Sylvia Pocock - know, 01883 712627 or email [email protected] Hope I don’t get crushed in the rush!
7 The copy deadline for the April edition of the Magazine is Wednesday, 15th March Email copy to [email protected] or phone 07792 654362
8 The Youth Centre, Godstone, is available for hire for Children’s Parties, Baptism Parties, Meetings etc. For more information on rates and availability contact Louise Case on 01883 740182. ST JOHN BLINDLEY HEATH Everyone at St John Blindley Heath was saddened by the news that the Reverend Nicky Tredenick had passed away. Nicky was the corner stone of our Church for many years as Rector until she was transferred to Horne. She was a friendly, kind and wonderful lady and Vicar. She was especially good with children, involving them in the services and we had a large, thriving Sunday School while she was leading our Church. I can remember on one occasion Nicky asked my family, including my young daughter, to act out the armour of God. She was horrified when we chose a dustbin lid to improvise the shield of God! We send our condolences to her family. We understand there will be a memorial service for Nicky at Outwood in April. If you walk through the Church yard you will notice we are trying to clear the fallen trees by the back of Playdays Nursery. If you have a wood burner there is a small pile of logs help yourself, a word of warning, they will need splitting. I would like to thank John Faulkner, Barry, Graig and Joan Wall for their efforts. We still have more to clear so, if you are able to help, please get in touch. Our future events are: Bereavement Group 6th and 20th March 2023 10am midday Quiz Night 7pm 24th March teams up to 8 people tickets £3 Singing Group 30th March 7 pm in the Church Vestry Lent Lunch 1st APRIL 12 Midday to 2 pm £5. Proceeds to Redhill Food bank Coronation Cream Tea on Sunday 7th May 2 to 4pm Barn Dance 24th November The Bereavement group is made entirely of people experiencing the same sense of loss as you and can help each other and chat over a cup of coffee. If you would like information on any of the above please contact either myself [email protected] mobile 07739100857 or Joan Wall [email protected] Trevor Nightingale and Helen McRobert New Church Wardens
9 continued over page GODSTONE PARISH COUNCIL Playground – The Parish Council is delighted that the playground is now finished and that families have been visiting and enjoying the refurbished playground and the new bits of equipment that have been installed. Tree Survey – Tree care is an important part of Parish council responsibility and a tree survey will have taken place during February on all trees that are on parish owned land. This is to make sure that the council can address any work that made need to be carried out to look after the trees and ensure the trees are well cared for. Jubilee Tree – There will be a new tree planted during March on Godstone Green, which will be a hornbeam tree planted in commemoration of Queen Elizabeth II and her Platinum Jubilee in 2022. This has been made possible by the support of Godstone Evening WI, Godstone Village Association, Godstone Club, COG Lions, Preservation Society, Godstone Gardeners’ Club and Godstone Parish Council. Thank you to all of those involved and we hope that everyone in the village enjoys the new tree.
10 CAMEO CLUB We’d love you to join us! 2 nd Tuesday of the month – Social afternoon with tea 4 th Tuesday of the month – Speakers & Entertainment. Come & hear topics such as Making of a Monarch with coronation stories of the past; Armchair tour of the City of London & My life as a Tiller Girl. All followed by tea & homemade cakes. Every Month from 2.30pm to 4pm Come & join us! Enjoy friendly company with other local residents. Transport can be provided – call Rosemary on 01883 741809 for more details. Parish Office – Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond our control the Clerks availability and work pattern continues to be disrupted over the next few months. Please continue to contact the office by email and make an appointment if you wish to attend the office. Thank you for your understanding at this time. Parish Council Meetings The next meeting of the Parish Council is Monday 6th March & then Monday, 3rd April. There has been a change to the council meeting originally scheduled for 8th May, which will now take place on 15th May, changed due to the coronation of King Charles III. Information about meetings is published on the website and the parish noticeboard. For more details about committee meetings please check the website or contact the Clerk. The Parish Council Contact Details Tel: 01883 744209, Email: [email protected] The Bounty, Godstone Green, Godstone, Surrey, RH9 8DY
11 VILLAGE FORUM THE WHITE HART BARN,GODSTONE WEDNESDAY 15th MARCH at 7.45pm Speakers from: POND TAIL SURGERY Reports updating Ashill’s plans for the proposed new development and Full Fibre connection Reports from village organisations OPEN FORUM Tea, coffee and biscuits at 7.30pm Come and support your village . The GVA are looking for a volunteer to take on the role of Secretary for the Godstone Village Association. Would you like to help? Each year, there are six committee meetings, plus two Open Forum village meetings for the people of Godstone to attend. If you would like to help, or considering helping and require more information about the role, then please contact the Membership Secretary – details below. Are you new to Godstone Village? If so, you may not have heard of the Godstone Village Association. It looks after the interests of the village and its surrounding area. It acts as an umbrella organisation for all the many clubs and societies in the village and holds two open forums a year to which all residents are invited, with interesting speakers and reports from local organisations. GVA is run by a small committee of volunteers. Membership – The Godstone Village Association invites you to continued over page
12 become a Member. The annual subscription helps to pay for the Association’s running costs. The annual fee is £5 per household and is due 1st September in every year. Application forms can be obtained from the Membership Secretary – details below. You will receive four Newsletters a year and in between updates by email on relevant matters. Moira White: Email: [email protected] Phone: 01883 744346 Address: 17 Ivy Mill Close Godstone RH9 8NG Raise money for The Children’s Trust and support children with brain injury by signing up to the Surrey Hills Hike this Spring The charity is calling for supporters to join them on this sponsored walk through a section of the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Beauty. The walk with start and finish at The Children’s Trust headquarters in Tadworth, Surrey, on the 12 March 2023. All the family are welcome, babies and dogs included, with options including a five or ten-mile route, or a ‘1K Your Way’ which is a fully accessible one-kilometre route suitable for buggies and wheelchairs. To sign up for the walk for just £10, visit https:// www.thechildrenstrust.org.uk/surreyhillshike Sign up in a group of five or more and get 10% off with the code ‘WALK10’ at checkout.
13 South Godstone Residents’ Association www.southgodstoneresidentsassociation.co.uk [email protected] SGRA (South Godstone Residents’ Association) The committee met at the end of January where we welcomed our new committee members who had been elected at the AGM. As usual, our focus was everything to do with our local community and our agreed minutes will continue to be posted on our website for anyone wishing to read them. Highway Defects We have been very active in the past weeks and months in photographing and reporting a whole host of highway defects across the South Godstone area. This has included several potholes in Easter Way, loose manhole cover outside St Stephen’s Church, faded yellow box line markings on the A22 southbound approach to the pedestrian crossing on Eastbourne Road, faded white line road markings all the way around South Godstone and the two missing street name plates for Hunters Chase. Surrey County Council will be dealing with the majority of these whilst Tandridge District Council will be dealing with the street name plates and OpenReach was tasked with the manhole cover. We have already started to see attention being given to the issues we have raised but we must recognise there are many many demands on the councils to carry out all sorts of repairs all across the county. Parking We have been asked to raise with the parking enforcement team and Surrey Police the number of vehicles which continually park on the double yellow lines at the junction of Easter Way and Hunters Chase/ Harcourt Way. These vehicles are obscuring lines of sight for drivers and are causing a danger to motorists and pedestrians alike. We have additionally been working with the Head Teacher at St Stephen’s C of E Primary School regarding the parking behaviours of those who drop off or pick up children at the school. Mrs Amanda Blackburn, the Executive Head Teacher, has requested we raise with Surrey County Council the faded yellow zigzags outside the school and request these are refreshed at the earliest opportunity. continued over page
14 Advertising In This Magazine Is Effective! Please remember to mention the Magazine when contacting advertisers. Thank you Full Fibre Broadband We understand that F&W Networks has completed the low level design for South Godstone meaning that we start to see representatives from the company more visible across our community. Emphasis at this time will be on identifying where a wayleave will need to be obtained in order for a full fibre broadband connection to be made. A wayleave is a legal agreement that will allow F&W Networks to cross a landowner’s property to provide a cable connection to another property. Work will also be starting in liaising with landlords, the department responsible for Council housing and Housing Associations. Do have a look on the South Godstone Residents’ Association website (www.southgodstoneresidentsassociation.co.uk) for background to the full fibre broadband project, information on the Internet Service Providers (ISPs) currently offered on the F&W Networks cable network and a set of frequently asked questions. If you have questions about full fibre broadband to your property, you can reach F&W Networks by email on [email protected] SpeedWatch We have several new SpeedWatchers following our recent appeal for more volunteers. We are now able to arrange more speed monitoring sessions. Locations where SpeedWatch may take place are authorised by Surrey Police but the operational times are dependent on having a minimum of two trained volunteers available. We are frustrated, like our residents, by the motorists who continue to drive at excess speed through and within our village community. We are hugely conscious of the safety of our pedestrians and how easy it is for accidents to occur when vehicles are being driven without due care and attention. Therefore, we have conducted a detailed review of how the speed limits are demonstrated around our village and will be working with Surrey County Council to ask for these to receive some housekeeping attention as necessary. Secretary Susan Clark, 11 Lagham Park, South Godstone RH9 8EW www.southgodstoneresidentsassociation.co.uk [email protected] SGRA (South Godstone Residents Association)
15 A MESSAGE FROM F&W NETWORKS TO SOUTH GODSTONE F&W Networks is excited at the progress towards bringing our full fibre network to South Godstone. Design plans are underway, and the build will be scheduled soon. Once the design is ready, our operations team will quickly move onto proactive elements of the build such as obtaining wayleaves. Like all network builders, we will need wayleave agreements with landowners for permission to access their land or property and install our network. Our wayleaves team will carefully analyse our plans to understand which properties will require a wayleave and begin contacting the relevant community members. We are working quickly to help rural areas such as South Godstone to gain giga-fast broadband before the copper lines are retired in December 2025. These changes may influence alarm systems, payment terminals and phone lines. Our efforts to address this situation now mean you’re preparing your household for future technology. continued over page
16 Making sure your systems are accessible over the internet allows them to be converted to full fibre in the future. It may be as simple as checking if your home phone is VOIP compatible or asking your alarm system provider if they are proactively updating their services to make this possible. Watch out for more articles and events that we’ll be attending in the coming months so we can offer you support during this transition as we bring full fibre to South Godstone. If you haven’t registered for your Gigabit Voucher, please follow the link below: https://www.southgodstoneresidentsassociation.co.uk/fibrebroadband You are invited to a Community Presentation Day to learn about full fibre broadband in Godstone The presentation day will be run in conjunction with to be held on Sunday, 2nd April at the White Hart Barn, Godstone There will be two identical presentations at 11.30am and 2.30pm with an opportunity for businesses to talk with representatives from F&W Networks at 1.30pm. Come along and have all your questions answered. Complimentary tea, coffee and cake. GVA, Tilburstow Hill Farm Cottage, Tilburstow Hill Road, Godstone, RH9 8LY email: [email protected]
17 CATERHAM, OXTED AND GODSTONE LIONS Lion President Chris Frith and past President Rita Reissland visited St Peter’s School in Tandridge Village. The purpose of the visit was to present the school with a number of high viz vests for both pupils and some staff. The school expressed their thanks for what they described as “this fantastic gift” which they said they would proudly wear as they would show off the school when they were out and about as well as help to keep them safe. They were given 30 children’s vests and 5 adult vests with the school logo on the front and the Lions logo on the back. The head teacher, Lenia Greenaway, invited Chris and Rita to come to the school to make the handover on Friday 27th January. She omitted to add that this would take place during Morning Assembly! LP Chris addressed the assembly, explaining about Lions and what they were bringing. Two students came forward to model the vests, very proudly and to much excitement from the other children. Head teacher Lenia then volunteered to model the adult version. The children expressed their gratitude with a loud round of applause. After the Assembly had finished, LP Chris and Lion Rita were taken on a tour of this very tiny school that has an amazing view of the countryside. The older part of the school is over 100 years old. Each class greeted the visitors enthusiastically and LP Chris was shown how to draw aeroplanes and trucks. Head teacher Lenia explained that the school is very successful but she has families who struggle with the rising cost of living, particularly those that are just above the level for state support. Lions assured her that if they could help in any way, then this is what they do. continued over page
18 The Lions have a programme called the Young Leaders in Service Awards which aims to encourage, guide, mentor and recognise young people aged from 8-18 years of age for their service to the community. On completion of their hours of service they will be awarded with a certificate, a letter of congratulation from Lions Clubs International, British Isles and a Young leaders in Service pin. There are three levels of award: Bronze for 25-49 hours of service, Silver for 50-99 hours and Gold for 100 hours or more. A young lady from Caterham on the Hill achieved her Gold Award after completing 111 hours helping out with the 1st Whyteleafe Guides. She is Chloe Smith (above) and she organises games, usually lively and energetic and goes with them to camps. She has been involved with the movement since she was four years old, no doubt influenced by her mother Lorna who is a qualified guide leader. Chloe is in Year 11 so has her GCSE exams this year. She was reluctant to attend a formal presentation of her certificate and badge, but informally chatted about herself and her achievements, agreeing to be photographed. Back by popular demand, we are once again pleased to announce another concert featuring well known tribute act, Abba Chique. This will be held on Saturday 15 th April at Caterham School, Harestone Valley Road, Caterham, CR3 6YA. We are very grateful to the school who let us use their wonderful facilities. There is ample parking and we’ll even give you a lift up the hill in our community minibus if you don’t fancy the walk. Doors will open at 7pm with the performance starting at 8pm. There will be a cash bar and of course no Lions event would be complete without a raffle. Seating is unreserved. Tickets are £15 and are available from Lions Tony Skilbeck, 01883 335745 or John Quincey 01883 742680. We look forward to welcoming you.
19 MUMS’ UNITED – SOUTH GODSTONE (and Dads, Grandparents and Carers) BABY & TODDLER GROUP at St Stephen’s Church Every THURSDAY 9.30am – 12noon (doors open at 9am) Come with your little ones and meet with friends, whilst members of the Mothers Union provide refreshments, chats and baby cuddles! ALL WELCOME – For more information, contact email: [email protected] On a dull Thursday in February the older folk of Godstone were cheered by attending yet another of Age Concern’s enjoyable Soup & Sandwich Lunches. Wonderful value for money at £5 per person, everyone enjoyed homemade soup, an assortment of deliciously filled sandwiches, followed by mints and tea or coffee. Of course, there was the obligatory raffle which off-sets wonderfully the expense of putting on such an event. Judith Flint made the occasion even more special with her beautiful piano playing; medleys of all the lovely romantic songs we remember and some we don’t – well, it was the day after Valentine’s Day! The next event Age Concern have in mind is something to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla. Several years ago we held a Birthday Tea on the date of the late Queen’s actual birthday – not the monarch’s official birthday when the Colour is trooped, etc. We invited the Queen and received a gracious note from a Lady in Waiting thanking us for our good wishes. Maybe we should write to His Majesty wishing him a peaceful and happy Reign… If you wish to contact Age Concern, our numbers are in the Godstone Magazine. Diana Drysdale (Chairman) If you are interested in Lions and would like to find out more about the Club you can call Tony Carter on 01883 741809. He would be pleased to hear from you. If you would like to hire the Club’s minibus please call David Annenberg on 01342 893353.
20 BAYPOND BABY & TODDLER GROUP GODSTONE at St Nicholas Youth Centre, Bay Path, Godstone Every MONDAY 9.30am - 11.30am (doors open at 9.15am) (Term time only) ALL WELCOME - no need to book in advance. Join our Facebook Group for updates For more information, contact: [email protected] Proceeds to be given to MISSING PEOPLE Charity Join us for a cup of fresh coffee or tea with homemade cakes and biscuits. Catch up with friends and browse among the various tabletop sales of jam, marmalade, cards, wool and knitted garments, books, puzzles, plants, and other surprises. The Youth Centre is adjacent to the White Hart Barn Village Hall at the beginning of Bay Walk. SATURDAY 4th MARCH 2023 Café Connect Coffee Morning At St Nicholas Youth Centre 10.30 – 12.30
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22 Godstone Cubs have had a fun filled term of creativity and celebrations of different cultures. We attended the opening evening of the Barn Theatre panto, had a Burns Night celebration including tasting haggis, learnt about Chinese New Year, made dragon masks and had fitness lesson from Holly at HMS Training. Next half term will be similarly action packed with a taekwando lesson and the ever-popular chip shop challenge and preparations for the Cub Camp in May. 1 st Godstone is a busy Scout Group running a wide and varied programme but it only runs due to the support of volunteers. The Committee and the Section Leaders are always looking for further support - if you would be interested in getting involved please contact [email protected] or [email protected]
23 SCOUT’S BAG2SCHOOL FUNDRAISING COLLECTION Godstone Scouts are holding a fundraiser with the company Bag2School.Collection bags are available from the Endeavour but you can also use black plastic bags. Please leave your items at the Endeavour Scout hut by 9am, Tuesday 7th March. If you have problems with delivery, please contact Helen Simmons on 01883 740522 to arrange collection. The items we are able to collect are: Men’s, Ladies’ and Children’s clothing; Paired shoes (tied together or elastic band around); Handbags; Hats; Bags; Scarves and ties; Jewellery; Lingerie; Socks; Belts; Soft toys; Household linen, curtains & towels; Household bedding (bed sheets, pillow cases and duvet covers) Unfortunately, we cannot accept: Duvets and blankets; Pillows and cushions; Carpets, rugs and mats (including bath, shower and toilet mats); Soiled, painted, ripped or wet clothing; School uniforms with or without logo; Corporate clothing and workwear; Textile off cuts, yarns or threaded material We would like to raise some much-needed funds for the Scouts, so please help us if you can. Thanking you in advance for your generosity. ENDEAVOUR HIRE The Scout Headquarters – the ‘Endeavour’ building, on Godstone Green is next to the doctor’s surgery and is available for private hire. The hall is large, and there are kitchen and toilet facilities. There are folding tables and stackable chairs and benches that can also be utilised. It can accommodate up to 50 people. If you would like more information and prices of hiring the hall, please contact our bookings secretary Paula Quincey on 01883 742680
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25 continued over page WI SOUTH GODSTONE We were delighted to welcome Jonathan Jones to our February meeting. This was his second visit to our group and this time he regaled us with colourful stories of the life and times of Stanley Holloway. This included reciting some of the actor’s many comical poetic monologues in a faux northern working-class accent, the most iconic of which was probably The Lion and Albert and Jonathan’s interpretation had us all in stitches. We have much to look forward to in the coming weeks, starting with a “Ladies Who Dine” dinner at Cucina’s in Oxted and trips to the Miller Centre in Caterham later in the month to see “Consent” and “Mrs Harris Goes to Paris”. Our craft group, walking group and book club continue to meet regularly. We meet at 8pm on the second Tuesday of the month in the Jubilee Room at St Stephen’s Church, South Godstone. We welcome new members so do come along if you want to make new friends and would like to find out more. We have a full programme of speakers and events planned for 2023. For further information you can always email us at [email protected]. Pat Field WI GODSTONE EVENING A huge thanks to Mags for providing the article for this magazine last month and she will be back next month! Well, we were rather risqué in January as we embraced all things burlesque. Our ever popular dance teacher Emma Cole took us through an amazing routine and yes we did have to shed our inhibitions but that was all helped along with a few props! Corsets, feather bowers long gloves (see over page) and a suggestive playlist made it all a little easier and produced more giggles! In February we welcomed one of our charities for 2023 the Godstone RDA, although they are grateful for the fundraising that many people and organisations do their main plea is for VOLUNTEERS. You can contact the via www.godstonerda.org.uk
26 Our trip to the Pantomime in Edenbridge was great fun (oh yes it was!) and well done to our member Di Kingham who played Baroness Hardup Our usual clubs are stronger than ever and include a supper club, sewing club and knit and natter. A beginner’s crochet group is just starting too. We have just voted for our National WI resolutions for 2023, our members voted for the campaign for ‘clean rivers for wildlife & people’ there are 5 campaigns in all, and we are looking forward to seeing which one the WI put on their agenda this year. The charities for 2023 that we would like to support are The Riding for the Disabled and The Hygiene Bank. We will be fundraising at our meetings and at different events throughout the year. We welcome visitors and new members, so do come along if you’re interested. We meet on the fourth Wednesday of each month at THE White Hart Barn. Our meetings officially start at 8pm but members often come along about 7.30pm for tea/coffee and a chat. Anita
27 WI GODSTONE AFTERNOON Our first meeting of the year in January began with a fascinating talk by the author, Jane Thynne. Her talk was entitled ‘Novels Berlin: Spies and Nazis’. Jane had visited Berlin and after doing a great deal of research there she decided to invent a character called Clara Vine, so that readers could experience through Clara what life was like for many ordinary women in Germany from 1931, when Hitler became Chancellor, to the end of the war in 1945. Jane’s very animated talk was really informative and very entertaining, including as she did some littleknown anecdotes regarding the wives of VIPs such as Magda Goebels, Emma Goering and Eva Braun. Jane had brought along several books which she was offering to sell to members at a greatly reduced price and several members took advantage of her generous offer! Our speaker in February, Paul Robbins, gave a talk which was also connected to war (this time the First World War) entitled ‘Oradour Sur Glane’. He recounted the amazing story of the sole survivor of the village of Oradour Sur Glane in France following a massacre by the Nazis. We are planning to hold an Afternoon Tea in March in place of our normal meeting. This was a great success last year when it replaced our usual Spring Lunch. Our Speaker in April will be David Allen, with a talk entitled The Weird & Wonderful World of the Law. There will also be raffle at this meeting. Our popular clubs continue to meet once a month: Play Reading, Book Club, Knit & Natter and Lunch Bunch. Brunch Club meet on the last Friday of the month at the Godstone Club at 10.30am. To get in touch please email our President Brenda Davis at [email protected], or just come along and meet us. Visitors and new members are always welcome. Meetings 3rd Wednesday at the White Hart Barn, Godstone, 2.15pm If you would like to arrange an annual subscription for the Magazine (£5 for 10 editions – bargain!) and have it delivered to your door, please call or text 07792 654362 or email Sylvia Pocock at [email protected]
28 MONKEY MUSIC IS COMING TO GODSTONE We are very excited to announce that from the 19th April Monkey Music will be holding classes at The Endeavour (Scouts Hut) each Weds in term time. Our aged specific classes are a safe and secure environment for your littles one to develop early years skills and to make new friends. Our timetable is as follows: Jiggety Jig 10am for 2-3 year olds Heigh HO 10.45am for 1-2 year olds Rock n Roll 11.30am for babies 3-12months To find out more and book your FREE trial visit: www.monkeymusic.co.uk/area/reigate-lingfield BRITISH HOROLOGICAL INSTITUTE SOUTH LONDON BRANCH We have been meeting at the White Hart Barn on the first Thursday, 19.30 for 20.00 start. Our next meeting is on Thursday, 2nd March. Speaker to be arranged. We welcome guests but request that if you attend more than three times in the year you become members.
29 continued over page EAST SURREY RSPB GROUP March sees the start of spring in earnest with many of our local resident birds starting to build nests and commence egg laying. Blackbirds, song thrushes, robins and dunnocks will have been singing for a while announcing their rights to their territories. Blackbirds and song thrushes will be sitting on eggs by the third week in March, and generally in both cases the birds will raise two or maybe three broods through the first part of the year. Robins will have been singing since the turn of the year and the first clutch of eggs will be laid in March or early April. Robins are likely to raise two to three broods a year. Again dunnocks will start nesting in March and early April and will also have two or three broods a year. Mistle thrushes are very early nesters with eggs sometimes being laid in February, although sometimes nests are destroyed by late winter storms. However, mistle thrushes will go on to sometimes rear a second brood. Chaffinches will start egg laying in April or May, but are unlikely to have a second brood. Bullfinches will also start egg laying in April or May but can rear up to three broods of young a year, and greenfinch also will start breeding in April or May and can also have up to three SOUTH GODSTONE CRAFTERS Do you like crafts like knitting, crochet, sewing, spinning etc, or want to learn something new? Why not join us once a month on the first Tuesday afternoon to create, talk and have tea/coffee with cake? Each session you can either try something different or bring along a project you are working on. 7 th March – We will be carrying on with our Spring wreaths. This time making the frame to mount our knitted or crochet flowers etc. There may still a chance to make flowers etc too. 4 th April – Try your hand at crochet and make crochet bunny basket to hold mini eggs etc. Bring a crochet hook and wool if you have them. All this for just £3 a session! Open to anyone, 2pm the 1st Tuesday of the month at St Stephen’s Church Hall South Godstone RH9 8EY. Contact Carol Carey 01342 893189 or Fiona Sabey 07746423262 for further information
30 broods in some years, whereas goldfinch will lay four to six eggs, but not until May, and will often raise a second brood. Blue tits and great tits tend not to complete their egg laying until early May and tend not have a second brood, although if great tits lose their first clutch of eggs they sometimes go for a second brood, but this is rare. However blue tits do not attempt a second egg laying no matter what happens to their first clutch of eggs. Long-tailed tits lay between eight to twelve eggs in April in a beautifully Constructed nest (above) which will take both adult birds over a fortnight to build. By the end of March the first of our summer visitors will be arriving with chiffchaff and blackcaps joining others of their species that have over wintered here. Wheatear should be found along the North Downs by the end of March, and sand martins should be seen over our local ponds and lakes. Our only summer migrant duck, the Garganey, could well be found on our larger bodies of water as they pass through our area on their journey north. The indoor meeting in March is on Wednesday 8th at the White Hart Barn, Godstone, starting at 8pm.The speaker will be Gordon Small who will give a talk entitled “The Flora & Fauna of Hampshire”- some of the key sites and wildlife of the county. Everyone is welcome, admission £5.00 including refreshments. The all-day field trip in March is on Sunday 12th to Functon Creek and Shellness in Kent. Meet at Godstone Green car park at 8am. For further information on group events and activities visit: hppts:group.rspb.org.uk/ eastsurrey or contact me. Keith Brandwood 01883 742740
31 GARDEN JOTTINGS Rhodohypoxis – the plant that gives and gives Alpine plants are always one of those charming plants that can look great in both rockeries, troughs and pots. Their compact growth, either as a cushion or spreading plant, means they do not take up much room so are excellent for small gardens or patios. Unfortunately, they often have a limited flowering period – usually two or three weeks and then they are finished for the season. Some have decorative foliage which can extend the period of interest but these are very limited in variety. Rhodohypoxis on the other hand, is one of those rare alpines that does have a long flowering period. I first came across it when visiting Sissinghurst Castle. A group of us students had just finished our final end of year exams and had three weeks free time so this visit had particularly happy memories. These plants were in the border next to one of the castle walls and I was amazed that you could not see any of the yellow stamens in the centre of the flower. Later I realized that of the six petals, the top three covered over the stamens – perhaps to protect against the rain that they endure in the Drakensburg Mountains of South Africa where they originate from. These are bulbous alpines with a broad, hairy, grass-like leaf from which emerge the delicate stalked flowers between each leaf. As a result, as long as they keep growing more leaves, more blooms will appear in the gaps of these leaves. Flowers range from deep cerise, light pink, bicolour, and white with all sorts of shades in between. They seed prolifically so new varieties can pop up to make an interesting addition to the population. However, they are mostly propagated by dividing the bulbs. This is done in May- June when the plants have sent up their first flush of new growth and have sent out a load of side shoots. These need time to develop into bulblets otherwise early splitting will not give the bulbs time to fatten up. Indeed they positively thrive on being divided as continued over page
32 Coffee Lounge Open Daily 9am to 1pm Membership not required Food and Drink Take Away and Eat In Dogs on Leads Welcome Duck Food (50p per bag) and Loyalty Card Available. Darts and separate Snooker Room available. If you would like to join Godstone Club, Membership is £22 per year and includes discount drinks and free entry to special events. congested clumps do not flower so prolifically. Stocks can build up very rapidly this way. They enjoy plenty of water during summer but need to be kept dry in winter when they are resting. If planted in a rockery, place a piece of glass over them with the support of a couple of bricks. This will give the shelter needed over the wet winters. Alternatively, sink them into the ground in a pot and lift them during winter and store somewhere dry. Cold is not a problem for them but wet during dormancy is. Watering resumes when the new leaves start emerging. Compost is usually well drained but not fussy after that. One word of warning though, mice do find them irresistible and can eat all the bulbs over winter if not kept securely out of their reach. This happened one year at the nursery and I lost virtually all of my stock. Varieties to look out for are Rhodohypoxis baurii ‘Lily Jean’ (double pink), ‘Venetia’ (tall cerise), alba (white), ‘Midori’ (bicolour, white/ pink) ‘Pink Diamond’ (pale pink). Also included are the varieties where you can see the yellow stamens. These include Rhodoxis ‘Hebron Red Eye’ (White with red centre), ‘Ruby Giant’ etc. Some tiny varieties include R. deflexa and R. milloides. There are many varieties and you can always see them in flower from April to October at the nursery. Deadhead to keep them looking fresh. Next month: Damage from severe weather Paul Grimmer – Plants N Gardens
33 GODSTONE GARDENERS’ CLUB Hello everyone once again. It is freezing cold as I type this and one morning at 10am I still had to scrape ice off the car windscreen! It has been a month of cold and then damp and grey with a few bursts of sunshine. I even managed to get some washing dry on the line outside, the first time in months. My garden has moved on just a little in that I have started to cut back the perennials and grasses but there is a long way to go. Meantime, have found the sweetpea seeds I collected from last year, so had better get on and sow them, much later than normal but not to matter, they will catch up. Look forward to seeing you on Wednesday 1st March. PROGRAMME OF TALKS AND EVENTS FOR 2023 1 st March Russell Bowes Say it with poison 5 th April Spring Challenge vs Hurst Green Gardening Club at Godstone 3 rd May Clive Gravett History of the lawn mower 13th May Plant Sale and Coffee Morning 7 th June Darren Everest Growing and Showing Sweet Peas 5 th July Garden Party 2 nd August Gordon Gillett How to be better off in a recession without having to cut back 6 th September Richard Ramsey Withypitt Dahlias 16th September Annual Show 4 th October Jacquline Aviolet Winter/Christmas fruit & vegetables from Brussel sprouts to tangerines! 1 st November Bob Evans String of Pearls - Villages and gardens on the A25 ridge from Nutfield to Westerham 6 th December A.G.M. and social evening All meetings are held at the White Hart Barn, 7.30pm for 8pm, with the exception of the Plant Sale and Coffee Morning which will be in the Youth Centre between 10.30am and 12.30pm. Visitors are very welcome at a charge of £3 per meeting. Look forward to seeing you all again and catching up on all your news. Sylvia P.
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35 EAST SURREY WALKERS East Surrey Walkers will be celebrating their 40th Anniversary by means of a festival between 22nd and 30th April. During that period we are arranging walks on each day. On certain days there will be several options. Details will be published on our website in the near future. Please do join us to help us celebrate. To” warm up” you may wish to check our current walks programme and join a walk. The lovely village of Bletchingley has a varied network of public footpaths which regularly feature in our walks. A number of these routes pass through the church yard at St. Mary the Virgin Church. The village and church have a valued connection with the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu. The Archbishop was a man of many talents. He was a theologian, author, orator and activist. He played a prominent part in the antiapartheid movement and worked for human rights in general. In all such activity The Archbishop was a strident advocate of non-violent protest. Archbishop Tutu was born on 7th October 1931 in Klersdorp, South Africa. His family were poor but in his own words “not destitute”. He had two sisters and two brothers both brothers died in infancy. Tutu was sickly from birth and as a young boy he contracted polio which atrophied his right hand. Originally Methodists the family ultimately converted to the Anglican faith. I cannot in such an article as this detail the varied life and career of the Archbishop and will mention only one or two key events. The Archbishop received a good education. In early adulthood he became a teacher and married. He was ordained as an Anglican priest in 1960. In 1962 he moved to the United Kingdom to study theology at Kings College. Post this period of study he returned to South Africa and in 1965 returned to the UK to take up an appointment as The Assistant Curate at St, Marys Church Bletchingley. The Archbishop, his wife and children lived in The Clerks House in the village and the children attended the local school. The family remained in Bletchingley until 1966 when they returned to South Africa. A feature of Tutu’s time in Bletchingley was his work to encourage cooperation between his Anglican parishioners and the local continued over page
36 Roman Catholic and Methodist communities. Over the years Archbishop Tutu made a number of return visits to Bletchingley including in 1985 when he conducted the Harvest Festival service in St. Mary’s. A portrait of the Archbishop can be found on display in the Church. During the following decades Tutu held numerous posts within the church and various organisations. Notably he was appointed to the post of Bishop of Johannesburg (1985 to 1986) and Cape Town (1986 – 1996) in both cases he was the first black man to hold the posts that are the most senior positions in southern Africa’s Anglican hierarchy. In 1984 Tutu was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. He shared the US$192,000 prize money with his family, SACC staff, and a scholarship fund for South Africans in exile. Following his retirement in 1996 he featured in the South African truth and reconciliation hearings and continued his work for human rights. Desmond Tutu died on 26th December 2021 having suffered ill health for some years. East Surrey Walkers wish you Happy Walking, Stephen Hanks www.eastsurreywalkers.org.uk Portrait of Archbishop Tutu in St. Mary’s Church
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38 HISTORY CORNER GODSTONE THROUGH THE AGES BY ST NICHOLAS YOUTH CLUB Organisations British Legion Godstone Branch of the British Legion was formed on the 21st July 1921 following the disbanding of the original Comrades of the Great War. The Branch has always used Godstone Club and Institute as its headquarters and representatives of the branch form part of the management committee of the Club Membership after the First World War was about 1200 but after the 1939-1945 war it increased almost threefold. A women’s section of the branch was formed after the 1939-1945 war and membership now stands at 75. Godstone Branch has always played a very active part in Legion affairs and has been awarded the High Sherriff’s Cup on no less than four occasions for outstanding work for the local community, a record that no other Surrey Branch as achieved. The highlight of the Branch's year is the annual August Bank Holiday Fete which as it reaches its 23rd year. Nearly £3,000 has been raised by the fete for local and other charities. Subscriptions 6/- per annum. Secretary: Mr R.J. Hall Cricket Club The Cricket Club is the oldest organisation in the village which is still functioning and is believed to have been founded in 1830. The minute book for 1902 records the purchase of an old tramcar, which was placed on the Green and used as a pavilion for the total sum including conversion of £20. Subscriptions £1 per annum Secretary Mr R Dumbrill Present membership 40 Darby and Joan and Old Peoples Welfare Volunteers started the organisations in March 1953, and their activities are concerned with the general care of the elderly, visiting, meals, holidays, outings, club meetings and chiropody. Darby and Joan meeting fortnightly in the Village Hall. Age limits 60 and over. Darby and Joan Subscriptions 2/- per annum,
39 Secretary Mrs Stevens Old Peoples Welfare Subs. Voluntary Secretary Mrs Tharby Godstone Amateur Dramatic Society Founded on the 29th March 1954 by Mr N Smith and Miss M Sowerby, it has put on shows annually ever since. It is open to anyone over the age of 16 and meets in the Village Hall or the Bell. Subscriptions Non Acting members 5/- p.a. Present Membership 53 Acting members 10/- p.m.
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