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3 In November every year our thoughts turn to Remembrance. This year the horrific terrorist attacks in the Middle East, military response and humanitarian crisis raise the possibility that, by the time we mark Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday, another major war will have broken out. We have seen heart-rending stories of those caught up in these horrific events, reminding us that it is individuals (all too often civilians) who suffer in war. In this issue we feature two casualties of World War I with Ludlow connections albeit from very different backgrounds. Both volunteered and both died serving their country, one (p7) in battle, the other (p33) without leaving these shores. Both will be remembered in ceremonies at the Peace Memorial in the Market Square and at the War Memorial in St Laurence’s church. In this issue we look (p17) at the history of the magnificent church porch which houses that War Memorial, learn about religious education in Ludlow CofE School (p11) and pick up some handy hints for saving energy, and money, in our homes (p37). Lesley Harling (Editor) This month’s cover: Photograph: Sam Divita Lone poppy Graphic design: Nicky Luck [email protected] Printing: Signworx Hereford Moreton-on-Lugg, Herefordshire CONTENTS Opinions expressed in contributed articles in this magazine are those of the contributor and do not necessarily represent the position or opinions of the PCC or Editorial Committee. The sound of silence 5 The life that came before 7 Introducing … Mina Davies 9 Religious Education at Ludlow CofE School 11 On the road for Advent 13 From the registers 13 PCC news 13 Notes from St John’s 15 Parishes at the heart of mission 15 ArtsStLaurence in November 16 At the church door 17 Food Bank Christmas appeal 19 Revd Barnabus Makuya 19 Sunday services in Ludlow 20 What’s on in November 25 Rehabilitation after earthquakes 27 Thank you, Lord, for food to eat 29 Cuptivating Huskees 31 Grave matters -William Henry Millichamp 33 Poets’ Corner - Do not go gentle into that good night 35 Swift report 35 An energy saving eco-worrier 37 T4U Love in a box Christmas appeal 38 Public service announcement 39 Children’s page 40 On using glebe land for allotments 41 Parish directory & copy deadline 42
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5 The sound of silence We live in a beautiful area where being able to walk along footpaths and bridleways is a pleasure. Yet many cover their ears with headphones and hear only the sounds they have brought with them. Where would we be had Ralph Vaughan Williams done that? We would not have the soaring exuberance of the ascended lark singing its summer joy to uplift our spirits. Sounds are all around us. The bark of a dog, the excitement of children, bees collecting food to ensure the hive’s survival. Sounds explain what is going on and help us understand how we fit into the great scheme of things. We use the sounds of words to share our thoughts and concerns, our joys and sorrows. We listen, interpret and respond. In our world there are so many conflicting sounds. Making sense of them is sometimes impossible. That was true in the bible where Elijah was on the run from the wrath of Jezebel after he complained that morality was being rejected and wrongdoing rewarded. In the emptiness of Mount Sinai he asked where was the God of justice. He realised that God, the creative force behind all life, was not in the destructive power of whirlwinds or rock-shattering volcanos or ferocious all-consuming wildfires. God was not the irresistible force that destroyed all who displeased him. God was rather in the sound of utter silence. It was the voice from within his mind that spoke to him and changed his life. That moment was given to him. It came as a surprise. From then on he knew exactly what was important and what he should do with his life. He had found himself, and that gave him the power to live faithfully for all that was true and honourable, however costly. So, enjoy walking in our countryside glorious in all its moods. Take off your headphones so that you don’t just hear the music you have chosen. Be open to the music that is given you and especially the sound of silence. It will challenge, encourage and direct how you live. David Roberts Titterstone Clee Hill (Danny Thomas)
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7 The Life that came Before Since 1918, November has been kept for the remembrance of those who died protecting our country, our loved ones and our way of life. In 1919 the porch at St Laurence’s was designated the town war memorial and the names of local people on its boards remind us of the fallen. When passing, we may look at them but do we actually ‘see’ them? All over the church there are memorial stones and plates in remembrance of loved ones passed. We walk on some, going by without knowing who they were. In the Lady Chapel one such memorial commemorates the life of a soldier, Lt John (Jack) Harley. He came from West Sussex, where he has a memorial in St Mary’s, West Chiltington. However, his parents John and Maria (née Jenkins) married at Bromyard in 1873). John, born in the parish of Stanton Lacy, became an eminent physician at St Thomas’s Hospital, London. He wrote numerous books and bequeathed his geological collection to Ludlow Museum in 1921. Jack was born at 39 Brook Street, Grosvenor Square, London on 2 January 1880. Educated at Charterhouse and Trinity College, Oxford he graduated MA in 1906 and was called to the Bar. Instead of law he engaged in historical research, becoming a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries. At the outbreak of war he enlisted with the Artists Rifles; he was gazetted Lieutenant with the 13th Worcestershires on 8 February 1915 and married May Winifred Sheppee on 8 May 1915, one week before embarkation to the Dardanelles, arriving on 25 May. On 1 June he wrote to his father, describing the trench systems, the countryside and coming under shell fire during a church service. He wrote of his recent marriage and reflected on his own mortality. On 3 June he wrote to both his sisters, saying ‘goodbye’ in case he should be killed in the forthcoming action at Krithia. On 4 June Jack gallantly led his platoon from the firing trenches and was killed by enemy fire. The first line of the memorial epitaph reads: ‘Firm in friendship, just and true in life ...’ Although Jack was born and made his life elsewhere in England and died on a distant shore, he was so beloved by a friend or family member in Ludlow, that they could not let his passing go unmarked here. Now, perhaps, when looking at memorial stones on the floor or in the shadows, we may ponder the life that came before. Eric Griffiths
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9 INTRODUCING ... Tell us a bit about yourself. My name is Mina Davies. I was born in Whitechapel, within the sound of Bow Bells, and we lived in the East End until I was eight. Then my mother took me and my sister to Dagenham where we had a house, with a garden, and even our own bedrooms. I left home at 16 and moved around from job to job – everything from washing up at Olympia and working in a dry cleaner to Robina’s in New Bond Street. After I had my two girls I did homeworking but I never really found my niche until I came to Ludlow. So what brought you to Ludlow? My mum was a Ludlovian born and bred and all my family is here so we used to come on holiday. Then my mum and stepdad moved back, followed by my sister so I came too, in 1999. I got a job at One Stop and realised that I really loved dealing with customers. I had a break after my husband left but then I worked in WHSmith until my back got so bad I couldn’t stand for long. I had a big operation. I discharged myself and moved out to Llangrove with Terry (Tel) but I couldn’t stand the isolation – tiny village, two miles to the nearest shop, no buses and I don’t drive – so we moved back into Ludlow and I started cleaning and doing housekeeping as a kind of rehab. I didn’t fancy physiotherapy. And to St Laurence's? One of the stewards told me you were looking for a cleaner and I’ve always loved the church so I jumped at it. When I come in, around nine in the morning, there’s just me and the girls in the Icon and I always say good morning to the building – the echo is brilliant. I come in four days a week but I’m usually gone before the doors open though I do come back later in the afternoon. What’s so special about St Laurence’s for you? The peace – I can gather my thoughts while I clean. Chatting to everyone. And listening to the piano practice - so lovely it makes me want to cry. The font is extra special because I know my mum and my aunt were christened in it. That’s why Terry and I got married here. That was a bit special: family came from all over the country, there were children everywhere and Terry’s side all wore kilts in Welsh tartan. How do you like to spend your spare time? I read a lot, mostly things like Stephen King - blood guts and gore. And I like to spend time with the grandchildren - all eleven of them. What is your most memorable holiday experience? Going to Porto for my 50th birthday, going paragliding behind a boat (I don’t swim) and taking my first jet ski ride, behind Terry.
10 Proud to be the architect for the Stephen House Project Creating a mission space for St Laurence’s Garden maintenance Michael Doyle Plantsman Over 30 years’ experience 07855 930641 [email protected] Victoria Allen Funeral Services An Independent Family Business Pre- Paid Funeral Plans Home Visits Always Available 24 Hour Service 01584 879035 Seafood bar now open Friday & Saturday Open Wed & Thur 10am-1pm Fri & Sat 10am-3.30pm
11 Religious Education at Ludlow CE School Our Christian identity is at the heart of how our school operates, day to day. Our core Christian values of ‘excellence, resilience and care’ resonate in all that we do and gives our students – of all faiths and none – firm building blocks for their future. Religious Education is taught in all years and is offered as a GCSE option for Key Stage 4. Over the last five years the uptake of RE has continued to grow and the current Year 10 group has 25 students. In the summer, the RE GCSE exam results were very pleasing, and the students did themselves, and us, very proud. There are also core religious education lessons that offer religious, moral, and ethical viewpoints on topics such as animal rights, human rights, activists, the sanctity of human life, euthanasia and many more. There is lively debate, quiet reflection, and overall evaluation. At Key Stage 3 the students start to get to know who God is, with units like ‘The People of God’ and ‘Jesus on Trial’. The students also explore the relationship between religion and science, and the changing nature of belief and its place in the modern world. Reverend Wayne Davies comes into school to work with us weekly. Anyone who knows Wayne will know well his natural ability to reach people and he is so valued by staff and students alike. The links between the school and the church are strengthened even more because of his intergenerational mission work. On Tuesdays we have a ‘Soul Space’ group - a reflective space with conversations and activities to still the mind. The group took part in the ‘Year of Prayer 2023’ organised by Hereford Cathedral and four students wrote the prayer below. I hope you have enjoyed this insight into Religious Studies in our local community. Leah Merrick World Changes, God Remains All-loving and inclusive Lord, Thank you for our intelligence, and the resources provided to us from your sacred earth that allow us to help one another and those in need. Let us appreciate those who care for us, who defend us and guide us through hardship. We are thankful for your presence in an ever-changing world; you are the lighthouse that guides us through the storm. The human race is a hurricane - chaotic, destitute and shamed. You, Lord, are the eye of the storm, the oasis in the desert, the greatest refuge. Thank you for our ability to create new things, and the knowledge that it all begins with you. In the name of Jesus, the light of the world.
12 Celtic Prayer An Evening Liturgy St Laurence’s Church, Ludlow Fourth Sunday of the month 6pm A simple service in a style used by the Iona Community Call Pat Helm 01584 877683 Helen Blyth 01584 875041 26 November Alternative services every month First Sunday Choral Evensong Second Sunday The Living Room Third Sunday Choral Matins Fourth Sunday Celtic Prayer All-age informal worship Conversation, play, food and a simple sharing of bread and wine No Living Room in November Next service 10 December CHORAL MATINs 11.30pm Sunday 19 November CHORAL EVENSONG 3.30pm Sunday 5 November
13 FROM THE REGISTERS BAPTISM 1 October Anabelle Dean FUNERALS 25 September Rosie May Rogers (Ludlow cemetery) 16 October Dorothy Holland PCC NEWS Summary of PCC meeting held on 11 September 2023 9 members of the PCC attended Resolutions: to take part in diocesan trial offering free weddings; to explore installation of toilet in vestry; to adopt PCC Code of Conduct Finance: forecast for first quarter improvement on last year Discussions: hire/purchase of sound deck; Mission Action Plan update from Benefice Away Day; progress report on Stephen House Committee Reports: received from Liturgy and Arts@StLaurence committees, National Lottery Heritage Fund, Auction of Gifts and Promises and Winter Festival working groups Date of next meeting: Monday 27 November 2023 Copies of the two latest confirmed PCC minutes is available on the noticeboard at the back of the church. On the road for advent We are planning to send our ‘posada’ (travelling crib) out again this Advent, for the first time since 2019. Between the Eucharist on Advent Sunday (3 December) and the Christingle Service on 24 December the Nativity figures will travel from one home to the next around Ludlow, symbolically spending a night in each place before moving on.
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Wednesdays at St John’s There is always a warm welcome at St John’s Church on Gravel Hill on Wednesday mornings. Why not come along, meet the clergy and see for yourself? 9.30am Daily Prayer 10.00am Tea & Toast Open house for anyone in the community to drop in for a chat and a cuppa 11.30am Holy Communion Informal service We would love to see you for the whole morning or just a part. NOTES FROM ST JOHN’S Graham Roe and Sophie Pitt were married at St John’s on 9 September, one the hottest Saturdays of the summer, with Wayne officiating. Graham, Sophie and daughter Lucy regularly attend our informal Family Service. ‘Parishes are at the very heart of the Church of England's mission.’ This was the Church of England’s response to a recent article in the Sunday Telegraph on ‘parish closures.’ According to William Nye, the Church of England's Secretary General, over the next nine years the Church is investing £3.6 billion of Church Commissioners’ funds in front-line ministry, focussing on the communities most in need. While admitting that ‘churches do sometimes close’ he stated that the number of consecrated churches closing had fallen in each of the last five decades: 1969-1979: 760 1980-1989: 485 1990-1999: 274 2000-2009: 243 2010-2019: 209 Parishes at the heart of mission
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17 AT THE CHURCH DOOR The south porch at St Laurence’s is one of the many special features of our wonderful building. Only two other churches in England have hexagonal porches, those at St Mary Redcliffe in Bristol and St Mary in Chipping Norton in the Cotswolds. It is the only part of the church that is vaulted in stone and, like many others in England, it has a ‘parvis’ room above. Once inside the church itself our attention is inevitably captivated by the soaring arches and high timber roofs, the misericords and the mediaeval glass, so the south porch can easily be forgotten. But while most of those internal features date from the rebuilding in the 15th century, the south porch is a good 125 years older. So why has so much care been taken with its design? Why is it hexagonal and why is it so big? We may find the answer to those questions by looking at what happened at mediaeval weddings. Getting married could be very simple in those days: a man and a woman only had to agree that they wanted to be married, and nothing else was needed. This verbal agreement could happen anywhere – in the pub, under a tree, even in bed! No documents or signatures were needed and no priest or secular official. The ages of puberty were officially 12 for girls and 14 for boys and, having attained that age, they were free to marry without their parents’ consent. Of course things were more formal at the higher end of the social scale. Important weddings, and many less important ones, took place at the door of the church, and the newly wedded pair then went inside to hear Mass. Ludlow was an important town and the size and, indeed, the shape, of the porch would have made it much easier to accommodate a large number of people. Although widows were entitled to onethird of their husband’s estate as dower, complicated pre-nuptial arrangements were often made, granting the bride specific lands. All of this was set out in a formal document and witnessed. These arrangements had to be confirmed at the wedding itself. Hugh Wood The document shown left, with the seals of witnesses, dates from 1316 and specifically names the place of the wedding. Edmund, son of Sir Roger Mortimer, Lord of Wigmore to his wife Elizabeth: assignment of dower at the church door, of the manors of…..
18 We are delighted to be open in Ludlow, and believe that our store will be a valuable addition to the local business community. We offer: wines and spirits from around the world prices to support all budgets miniatures and gift packs - ideal presents friendly staff under Ben Templeman always on hand tasting events - to be announced via notice boards dog-friendly environment Special opening offer: 10% discount on production of this advertisement up to 31 December 2023 Open Monday to Saturday 9am-6pm Sunday 10am-4pm 17 King Street, Ludlow SY8 1AQ Tel: 01584 547433
1910 FOOD BANK CHRISTMAS APPEAL Ludlow Food Bank is appealing for help this Christmas to handle the additional work at this time of year. The aim is to have an extra volunteer each morning during December, whose role will be to meet and greet people bringing in donations and to sort the donations while the two regular volunteers make up the parcels. There will be no commitment beyond Christmas although, of course, anyone who finds it a pleasant way of helping the community will be welcome to continue volunteering. New volunteers will be invited to attend a training session on either Thursday 23 or Friday 24 November at 1.00pm at the Food Bank (Rockspring Centre) so that everyone knows exactly what is involved in making up Christmas bags and hampers. If you are interested please email [email protected], text 07486037756 or respond to the Food Bank Facebook request. If you want to contribute to the bags and hampers please make your Christmas-type donations (no Advent calendars or alcohol please) by the beginning of December to allow time for any extra shopping required. Revd Deacon Barnabus Makuya ‘I thank God through Jesus Christ and the Hereford Diocese for raising funds and sponsoring my studies. It is not easy for people who have never met before, but the love of Christ and people from the Hereford Diocese enabled us students from four dioceses in Tanzania to benefit …’ At our Harvest Eucharist on 1 October we had news of the latest ordinand in training in Tanzania who is being sponsored by Ludlow Deanery, through Hereford Diocese. A collection taken after the service raised £304.23. Barnabus is very grateful for our support and continues to pray for all who support him through their time, love and compassion.
20 Anglican St Laurence, College Street 8.15am Holy Communion (BCP) 10am Parish Eucharist For livestream/recording - link at https://stlaurences.org.uk/live-stream 11.30am Choral Matins 3rd Sunday only 3.30pm The Living Room 2nd Sunday only 3.30pm Choral Evensong 1st Sunday only 6pm Celtic Prayer - evening liturgy 4th Sunday only 5th Sun Joint benefice service with St John’s Contact [email protected] 01584 872073 St John, Gravel Hill 10am 1st, 3rd & 5th Sundays Holy Communion 2nd & 4th Sundays Morning Prayer 5th Sun Joint benefice service with St Laurence’s Contact [email protected] 07545 438892 St Giles, Ludford 11.15am 1st Sunday Family Worship 2nd & 4th Sundays CW Holy Communion 3rd Sunday Lay-led Worship Contact [email protected] Ludlow Baptist Church 10.30am Sunday worship Contact [email protected] Ludlow Elim 10.30am Service at Elim 11.30am Online. Contact www.ludlowelim.com 07791 483284 [email protected] Ludlow Methodist Church 10.30am Sunday worship Contact [email protected] Ludlow Quakers 10.30am Meeting for worship Contact Cynthia Prior 01584 831855 St Peter's Roman Catholic Church Mass 11.00am Sunday 9.30pm Monday-Friday 6.00pm Saturday (Sunday Vigil ) Morning prayer 9.15am Monday-Friday 9.45am Saturday Contact [email protected] SUNDAY SERVICES in Ludlow
21 You can advertise in this listing for one year (12 issues) for just £30. With 600 copies circulating in Ludlow every month, free of charge, this is an ideal way of publicising your business, shop or service. We also accept advertising from clubs, societies and social groups - perfect for publicising your group’s activities and attracting new members. All entries must fit the standard 4-line box (approximately 40 words). To discuss details or to place an advertisement please contact the parish office on 01584 872073 or email [email protected]. LUDLOW LOCAL LISTING Ludlow Castle Gallery Quality affordable picture framing & original objects. Fast friendly service. Gifts & cards by local artisans. Find us just before the Castle Café or contact on 01584 878527 [email protected] www.ludlowcastlegallery.co.uk Artwork Books & Stationery Castle Bookshop 5 Castle Street Ludlow Booksellers and Stationers Free ordering service 01584 872562 [email protected] Myriad Organics 22 Corve Street 01584 879373 myriad-organics.co.uk Ludlow's widest range of organic produce: fruit & veg, wholefoods, groceries, meat & dairy, vegan & vegetarian, natural cleaning products, bodycare & cosmetics. Waste-free shopping options & refills for cleaning products. Local delivery and our popular organic box scheme. Firenze Catering Jackie Thomas - Catering for all occasions. 07526 212176 / 01584 877190 [email protected] Food If you use the services of any of our advertisers please mention that you found their details in the Ludlow Tower.
22 Fitness and Sport Pearce Cycles Friendly, knowledgeable and experienced - your local bike shop for all your cycling needs. Fishmore Road, Ludlow, SY8 3DP. Tel. 01584 879288; [email protected]; www.pearcecycles.co.uk. Open Mon-Fri 9.00am to 5.30pm. Bike sales - repair - hire. Reynolds of Ludlow furniture Wanted by local collector and researcher; any condition considered; will collect. Good prices offered. Tel: 07967 134116. Reynolds Furniture Wanted Frames by Sebastian Bespoke picture framing 6a Pepper Lane Tel: 07815 111554 Picture Framing Matthew Lenthall IT Services Computers, phones and all things technical. Support and maintenance. 12a Corve Street, Ludlow 07828 081163 or 01584 877946 [email protected] IT Services Teme Valley Insurance Brokers For your Home, Car, Business or Farm quote Call Mark or Sue on 01584 290055 [email protected] Insurance Services William Griffin Memorials erected in marble, stone and granite. House name plates – Doorsteps & windowsills. 33A Corve Street, Ludlow SY8 1DL. Tel: (01584) 872893 (01584) 877422 evenings Mobile 07967 126451 Monumental Sculptor Silver Swan Adult Ballet Royal Academy of Dance Silver Swan. Weekly adult ballet classes in Ludlow. For more information go to www.pointeworksdance.co.uk or contact Debbie at [email protected] or 07887 856182.
23 Property services and maintenance James Mackenzie Carpentry & Joinery Reliable / High Quality Work. Building Services, Gosford Cottage, Little Hereford, Ludlow SY8 4AR Call 01584 711326 or 07870428948. Email [email protected] Carpentry Cleaning Hydroclean Services [email protected] Carpet & Upholstery cleaning : Leather cleaning : Hard floor cleaning and stone polishing : Gutter cleaning : Fully insured, fast response, reliable and local. Members of the National Carpet Cleaning Association. www.hydrocleanservices.co.uk 01568 630000 Ken Dodd & Son Chimney Sweep Rotary sweep and vacuum-assisted. Cowls/bird guards supplied and fitted. Woodburners serviced and bricks supplied and fitted. Fully insured and certificates issued. Available for weddings. 01584 873178 • 07702 102044 www.kendoddandsonchimneysweep.co.uk Chimneys & Stoves General Maintenance Steve Wilson Painting and Decorating Internal and external work carried out. Please telephone Steve on: 07818 400764 Email address: [email protected] R Aimson Property Services Carpentry, Home Improvement, Painting & Decorating Mobile: 07864 015086 email:[email protected] Property Services
24 ADVERTISING RATES 2022-23 (for 12 issues) Full page - £325 Half page - £200 Quarter page - £105 Eighth page - £65 Classified - £36 Rates for part-year available on request See above for contact details. ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS, CLUB OR SOCIETY HERE Contact the Parish Office on 01584 872073 or [email protected] Dan Pritchard Garden Services Fully insured - reliable - experienced - competitive. Lawn mowing / hedge cutting / tree surgery / pruning / turfing / planting / landscaping. Call Dan on 07779182636. Covers Ludlow and surrounding areas. Gardening Ian Mackay Quick response, local and reliable. No-obligation fixed quotes. Domestic installation and repairs. Landlord & homeowner safety inspections. Condition reports for house sales. Contact Ian Mackay on 07736 303297 or email [email protected] Electrical Marie’s Alterations and Repairs Well-established Ludlow business. We can shorten or alter most items, new or old. Open: 9am- 5pmTuesday to Friday. Now in new premises so contact us for details 01584 318185 07967 447935 [email protected] www.mariesofludlow.co.uk Alterations Send those special greetings to your loved one HERE for just £7.50. To book email [email protected]
25 WHAT’S ON AT ST LAURENCE’S IN NOVEMBER Thursday 2 7.00pm Solemn Requiem Mass for All Souls (incense will be used) Sunday 5 3.30pm Choral Evensong Monday 6 -Wednesday 15 Remembrance Display in Lady Chapel Open tea 3.00pm Saturday 18 7.30pm Ludlow Orchestra Concert Sunday 19 Choral Matins 11.30am Thursday 23 10.30am Intercessory prayer meeting Sunday 26 6.00pm Celtic Prayer Monday 27 PCC meeting 5.30pm MIDWEEK Daily prayer Mondays 9.30am Holy Communion Wednesdays 6.00pm Intercessory Prayers 10.30am Fourth Thursday in month Tower bells practice Mondays 7.30-9.00pm Handbells practice Tuesdays 6.00-7.15pm Choir practice Thursdays 6.00-8.30pm AND AT ST JOHN’S Daily prayer Wednesdays 9.30am Tea and toast Wednesdays 10.00am Holy Communion Wednesdays 11.30am For the latest news go to https:// stlaurences.org.uk/google-calendar/ Ludlow Piano Festival - Pop-Up Friday 3 Open piano sessions 10am-4pm Junior piano recital 7.00pm Saturday 4 Strictly Piano 7.30pm Ludlow Winter Festival Friday 24 5-9.30pm Pizza, poetry, music and beer Saturday 25 10-5pm Winter Fair - crafts and gifts, children’s games, tombola, refreshments Sunday 26 4.00pm Festive Favourites concert Remembrance Sunday 12 Holy Communion (BCP) 9.00am Act of Remembrance 10.50am (at Peace Memorial) Service of Remembrance 11.15am
26 LUDLOW CAR SHARE Cut your travel costs and help beat climate change Our club is a community run, not-forprofit enterprise We operate low emission, automatic Toyota hybrid cars Book a car for as long as you need from 30 mins to several days Smart card technology - book online or by phone You pay only an hourly charge plus mileage We pay fuel, insurance, road tax and breakdown cover As a member you can book Co-wheels cars across the UK No age limit with valid licence – introductory teach-in if required Join at: http://www.co-wheels.org.uk/ shropshire Local contacts: 01584 875017 or 875501 or 01584 875501 5 The Angel, Broad Street, Ludlow, Sy8 2PG R I B A Trevor Hewett A R C H I T E C T ▪ Planning applications ▪ ▪ Listed building consent ▪ ▪ Building regulations ▪ ▪ Alterations and extensions ▪ ▪ Church inspections ▪ ▪ Green building ▪ The Architecture Studio 135 Corve Street Ludlow SY8 2PG Tel: 01584 877992
27 Syrian women in the Bayt Sity kitchen When catastrophes such as the September earthquake in Morocco occur, they hit the headlines for a few days. We pray for those affected; we might individually or as a church donate money or goods to the rescue effort - and then it all goes away. The earthquakes in Turkey and Syria in February caused widespread devastation with at least 53,000 dead, homes, hospitals and schools destroyed and lives changed forever. The work of community organisations in the aftermath demonstrate the power of compassion and solidarity in a crisis. Christian Aid's local partners were on the ground in Syria to support relief work and are still there for communities beginning the long road to recovery. The situation in north west Syria is particularly grim. Rescue teams reached only 5% of identifiable sites in the first 72 hours after the earthquake and there is still a shortage of heavy machinery to remove rubble. Christian Aid has since reached more than 60,000 people, moving into the rehabilitation phase: responding to immediate needs; training new staff; providing emergency shelter; carrying out emergency medical treatment; providing heaters and winter kits of blankets and warm clothes; and ensuring people have food. By August 665 kits had been distributed but many people, including children, were left sleeping in the open, often without cover, around fires. Christian Aid aims to provide shelter as quickly as funding permits, supporting local organisations in their lifesaving work. One such partner is MIDMAR, which advocates the empowerment of local communities. UNICEF estimates that 2 million children in Syria have been affected. Many are without family, friends or a support system and find it hard to engage with their peers. In April MIDMAR took 150 children to an centre in Turkey where they joined in group games, face and watercolour painting, group singing and ball games as part of their rehabilitation. MIDMAR also launched a kitchen project, supporting local women and providing much-needed meals to neighbours affected by the earthquake, while encouraging all participants to become involved with community concerns. The kitchen is in an area where 40% of families grapple with hunger, now exacerbated by the earthquake. Strong, resilient Syrian women are playing a pivotal role in rebuilding communities. Thank you to everyone who helped to make a difference, in however small a way, in the immediate aftermath and in the longer rehabilitation process. Claire Wilcox Rehabilitation after earthquakes Syrian children playing
28 Alexandra House Diamond Life Healthcare Fully trained carers provide high-quality personalised care We provide Domiciliary Care 24-hour Live-in Care Domestic Care We are always looking for reliable caring staff Please ring and speak to our friendly team 01584 872233 Email - [email protected] Website - www.diamondlifehealthcare.co.uk
29 Thank you, Lord, for food to eat There is a character in a Russian novel who says, ‘Ladies and gentlemen, let us assume that man is not stupid … but if he isn’t stupid, he is monstrously ungrateful all the same - a creature that has two legs and no sense of gratitude.’ That is certainly true in a world where carping and criticising come more easily than praising and thanksgiving. It is an attitude which rubs off on all of us and is like Aesop’s fable of the donkey who was never happy with his lot, whatever the weather, whatever the season. Aesop told the story to remind us of the need to cultivate a spirit of gratitude - not to put blinkers on our eyes and be negative about life, but to open both eyes and hearts in thanksgiving for the world in which we live. We do that each time we celebrate the eucharist together. We do it when we say grace before meals. This painting, ‘An Old Woman Saying Grace’ by Nicholas Maes brings this truth to mind. Maes was a pupil of Rembrandt and he lived from 1632 to 1693. He spent most of his life in Dordrecht in Holland, and, apart from portraits, he delighted in painting women - women spinning or reading the Bible or preparing meals. Here the woman is sitting down to a simple meal of soup, bread, butter and fish. But before she enjoys this food, she puts her hands together and, as simply as the food in front of her, mouths a prayer of thanks to God. The artist tells us that this offering of prayer was a daily pattern for the woman. For on the ledge at her side lie an open Bible, a lamp and an hourglass, and on a nail some keys. Signs that such prayer can be a light to illuminate the days of our lives and the key to open our hearts to the kingdom, just like the woman in the painting. It is a tender moment, both concentrated and intimate. At first glance, there is a tinge of sadness for the table is set just for her. She will eat alone. And then our eyes catch sight of the cat’s paw reaching up to enjoy the food as well. Who knows? - something may spill over the edge of the table for the cat to enjoy. Simplicity and humour go hand in hand to remind us all of the need to be thankful. And thankfulness for food can spill over into thanksgiving for all the mercies and gifts that come our way in life. Revd Michael Burgess
30 Open tea at st laurence First Monday in the month at 3pm. All welcome. Monday 5 November Ludlow Curtain Company The Stables, Station Drive, Ludlow SY8 2PQ Tel 01584 875533 [email protected] Here for all your soft furnishing needs, from curtains and all types of blinds to cushions, upholstery and curtain poles. Fabrics now available on the roll. LOCAL MAN wishes to buy Antiques, Bric à brac, Collectables and Deceaseds’ Effects Please call 01584 892128 07508 809710 141A Vintage & Retro Collectables Centre Open Mon, Wed, Thur, Fri, Sat 10am - 5pm Closed Tues & Sun 141A Corve Street, Ludlow SY82PG 01584 877 572 /141A @godsellmark Skip Hire, Waste Management & Recycling Tenbury Wells, Ludlow, Leominster, Craven Arms and
31 Cuptivating HUSKEES Coffee cups come in all shapes and sizes and coffee aficionados have views on the appropriate cup for different types of coffee: for an espresso a small 6oz porcelain cup with handle and usually a saucer, often known as a demitasse; for a cappuccino a larger, wider 8oz cup with a saucer ; and then there are specialised cups for a caffè latte, a flat white or a latte macchiato … the list goes on. Ever since it opened in September 2022 Icon Coffee in St Laurence’s has been serving coffee in an award-winning innovative reusable cup called a Huskee. The name comes from the material it is made of - recycled coffee husks (so appropriate!). The awards come because of the recyclable nature and novel design of the cups; rather than insulation the cups have grooves, making them both insulating and a pleasure to hold in the hand. The cups come with a lid (for coffee to go) with some extremely inventive design features: the triangle of vents enhances the aromatics of your drinking experience while ensuring the ideal pour rate the sloping top allows coffee to pool at the spout, to give the same drinking experience as an open HuskeeCup. In my view this is the really ingenious bit. It feels as though you are drinking from a regular cup, rather than from that tiny hole that squirts hot coffee into your mouth when you are drinking ‘on the go’! Icon has these cups for sale in three sizes – 8oz (£15), 15oz (£17.50) or a Duo set of two 3oz espresso cups with saucers (£27.50). All are dishwasher friendly (even more than friendly - the ridges allow water to drip off beautifully!) and extremely robust. A Huskee Loop is to be introduced soon, allowing the customer to swap in old Huskees for new ones. The manufacturer is very confident in the longlasting fabric of the cup, but will recycle all old cups into new at their factory. Huskee is based in Australia, not a coffee growing country but one with a strong coffee culture. The company imports the husks from Yunnan Coffee Traders in rural southwest China, an emerging source of specialty grade coffee. These delightful cups are reasonably priced (prices to be inserted), particularly when you take into account the discounts allowed by most coffee shops (including Icon) when you bring your own cup. Investing in a Huskee recyclable reusable cup means you’ll never again have to chuck away the coffee cup after your ‘to go’ drink. Look on it as a contribution to saving the planet.
32 We specialise in all aspects of building, from new construction to work on scheduled monuments to the restoration of Georgian and half-timbered houses. The company employs 40 time-served craftsmen and has worked recently at: Warwick Castle, Kenilworth Castle, St Mary’s Church, Shrewsbury and many private houses in the West Midlands and border areas. The company is delighted to be working with Ludlow St Laurence and the family and friends of Stephen Treasure on the Stephen House Project transforming 2 College Street into a mission space to support those in need or distress in the community he loved.
33 GRAVE MATTERS: WILLIAM HENRY MILLICHAMP (1872-1919) Interesting burials in St Leonard's Churchyard William was born in Ludlow and, aged nine, is listed in the 1881 Census as living at 18 Old Street with his grandmother Jane Millichamp, his mother Annie Verlander, a younger sister Lizzie Millichamp aged 8, a half-brother Robert Verlander aged 3 and a halfsister Millie Verlander, aged 1. Owing to the amazing number of spelling variations of the surname, several of which William seems to have used in his lifetime, I could not find him on the Census for 1891, but in February 1894 he is recorded as having enlisted in the 1st Battalion, King's Shropshire Light Infantry. His name is shown as Millichip, altered throughout to Millichap. He was posted to India, where he served as a private for the full term of 12 years, returning home to Ludlow and his mother at 124 Tower Street in 1906. The 1911 Census finds him lodging at 123 Lower Galdeford, under the name of Millechip, unmarried, and working as a bricklayer's labourer. On the outbreak of the First World War William rejoined his old regiment and was assigned to the Territorial (4th) Battalion where, presumably on account of his age, he was posted for home duty only. Sadly, William began to complain of shortness of breath and was diagnosed with a heart condition. Owing to his declining health, apparently ‘aggravated by the strain of Service conditions’, he was discharged in April 1918 as medically unfit. His 100% disablement earned him a pension of £2 a week (roughly the equivalent of £80 today). William did not live long to enjoy the very modest rewards for his service and died not much more than a year later, in July 1919. His grave is to the north of the former church, and he is listed on the war memorial in St Laurence's as William Millichip. His death may not have been what people call heroic, nor even on the battlefield, but had he not chosen to serve his country again (although under no obligation to do so), William might well have lived a lot longer and enjoyed a pleasanter life as a civilian. WE WILL REMEMBER THEM Photograph courtesy of Clive Richardson The Friends of St Leonard's Churchyard need of your support. If you would like to adopt a grave in the churchyard to look after, or to fund its upkeep, or to help in some other way, please contact Nick Ford at: [email protected]
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35 Poets’ corner Do not go gentle into that good night. Old age should burn and rave at close of day; Rage. rage against the dying of the light. Though wise men at their end know dark is right, Because their words had forked no lightning they Do not go gentle into that good night. Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light. Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight, And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way, Do not go gentle into that good night. Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light. And you, my father, there on the sad height, Curse, bless me now with your fierce tears, I pray. Do not go gentle into that good night. Rage, rage against the dying of the light. Dylan Thomas 1914 - 1953 Dylan Thomas was born in Swansea in 1914. He left school at 16 to join the South Wales Daily Post as a junior reporter but soon resigned to become a full-time poet. Much of his published work was written in last teens. Moving to London he soon attracted critical praise and prizes but this period marked the start of his life-long problems with alcohol and money. In 1937 he married Caitlin Macnamara with whom he had three children. Thomas worked for the BBC and as a film scriptwriter to make ends meet and it was on one of his many reading tours that Thomas collapsed and died at the age of 39. Do not go gentle into that good night is one of Dylan Thomas’s best-known poems, alongside And death shall have no dominion, but he also wrote some of the most familiar prose works in English - Under Milk Wood and A Child's Christmas in Wales. Great excitement – all six of the new nesting boxes fitted in the bell chamber in 2022 were visited by swifts this year. Two had only a few feathers but there were also two quarter-built nests, one half-built and one almost completely built nest. Maybe these are young birds creating nests for the first time? Swift report
36 Tea and Cake at Christmas Thursday 14 December Save the date .. for a reception, which the Ludlow Palmers will be hosting jointly with the Ludlow Civic Society at 3.00 pm in the Zion Room at the Methodist Church in Broad Street. Open to all Pause to catch up with your friends before the final week of Christmas preparations! Ludlow Rotary Tree of Light Switch-on - Saturday 25 November Dedications in memory of a loved one, to celebrate a special occasion or to send good wishes Donation invited - £5 Pick up a form at St Laurence’s church or Nock Deighton or visit www.ludlowrotaryclub.org.uk
37 From An energy-saving eco-worrier As summer departs and the nights draw in thoughts turn to spending more time indoors. As an eco-worrier I come to my annual concern of how much fuel we use in our home, some of it quite unnecessarily. There is always a certain amount of tension between my husband and me which has nothing to do with fuel consumption and more to do with the ambient temperature. I overheat very easily and my husband constantly feels cold. We have reached a compromise. I float around a barely heated house and he puts on an electric heater in his study. Of course this then fills me with more anxiety thinking about how much electricity one heater uses. However I have been reading up on ways to save energy in the home without resorting to arguments. It seems that the average UK household spends £65 a year powering appliances left on standby. It is too easy use to switch the telly off using a remote control and walk away. More energy is wasted in powering gadgets such as phones and tablets. We should be unplugging them as soon as they are charged not leaving them overnight. This is tricky as I’m pretty sure that I am asleep when my phone has charged and am not likely to wake up just because my phone needs unplugging. Another source of energy overuse is in the heating of our homes, or more specifically the loss of heat from our homes. One article recommended putting up an outside post box rather than having a letterbox, and fitting a keyhole cover to prevent draughts. Of course the old-fashioned way of dealing with these draughts is to have a heavy curtain that can be pulled across the door adding a cosy feeling to a house, in my opinion. There are many ways to save energy at home and help the planet. Consulting a site such as energysavingtrust.org.uk could provide some handy hints for your home. As a knitter I feel I should also mention the benefits of wool, as a draught excluder, as bedding and of course as a jumper, cardigan, hat, scarf and gloves. A very eco-friendly source of warmth. Wishing you a cosy and eco-friendly chilly season. Hilary Walters Burnt out CANDLES Lighting a candle in church to accompany prayer or to remember a loved one brings solace to many and candles are an integral part of the special atmosphere of Advent and Christmas services. But what happens to all those candle stubs and empty votives? We are very pleased that St Laurence’s is now able to send them all away to be recycled instead of going to landfill.
38 SHOEBOX APPEAL 2023 Poyners in Broad Street is once again acting as a collection point for T4U’s nationwide shoebox appeal to provide Christmas gifts to vulnerable children and families in Ukraine, Moldova, Georgia, Bosnia and Romania. Find an empty shoebox, decide who you’d like your box to go to (boy, girl, or family) and fill it with appropriate items. For ideas of what to include and how to pack and label your box pick up a leaflet from Poyners or go online to: www.teams4u.com Please take your completed shoebox to Poyners by: Thursday 30 November Poyners
39 Oh yes, it is! Christmas is coming and with it comes that angst about what to buy for all the people on your list. We know that Christmas isn’t just about gifts; it is much more important than that. Traditionally, however, it is a time of giving and gifts form a large part of that. We, at The Shop at St Laurence, wish to announce that we are here to help: we have just what you need for everyone on your list - from the Awkward Aunts to the Zingy Zoomers, there is something for everyone. And not only are they affordable but, all importantly, every sale benefits St Laurence’s. To go back to the Awkward Aunt, what about a beautiful Liberty Handkerchief? And the Zingy Zoomer might like the ‘Gift of Time’ - delicate beeswax candles, designed to give a moment of peace. And, yes, there are plenty in between: Bolshy Boys would love a Whoopee Cushion; Pragmatic Pals a Wedgie doorstop. What about those Enigmatic Extras - you weren’t expecting them but you can come up trumps with Designer Dominoes, and your Marvellous Mother would love some irresistible Azuni earrings. Perhaps you could charm your Irritating In-laws with a beautiful Rader Lighthouse? Your Super Sister would definitely love a sumptuous silk scarf from Tilley & Grace (pictured above), Gorgeous Grannies might like that too! Captivating Children would certainly be captivated by a Noah’s Ark from Lanka Kade, or any other of their wonderful wooden toys. Honestly, we can give you the complete Alphabetical Answers to your Christmas Shopping List. Come in and ask our staff for all the help you want. Of course, the shop has the most extensive range of Christmas cards in town for those you want to remember but won’t see. And all the proceeds from the cards go to the Rector’s Hardship Fund for those in need over Christmas. Again your purchases will really make a difference. Last, but not least, don’t forget the decorations - beautiful baubles, angelic angels, delicate dingle-dangles. What more could you want to ensure a smooth and stress-free Christmas season! Public Service Announcement Open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm The Shop at St Laurence Mobile: 07833 866485 www.theshopatstlaurence.co.uk
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41 On using glebe land for allotments The latest letter from Revd Dr Gary Bowness’s Uncle Eustace… The Rectory St James the Least My dear Nephew Darren I hear you have joined the committee which wants to convert the waste land between the abandoned soap factory and the canal in your parish into allotments. I would have thought there were holier sorts of conversions you could have concentrated on, though I am sure you will soon be caught up in arguments which make that little disagreement over an apple in the Garden of Eden seem quite trivial. Some years ago, we similarly decided to let part of our glebe land become allotments. The outcome was not wholly as may have been anticipated. Colonel Wainwright saw it as an opportunity to re-live his war years and was only just restrained from digging trenches around his plot. No doubt he would have offered to play football with neighbouring allotment holders on Christmas Day. It caused some surprise when the Earl of Stowe applied for a plot, but it has become something of an attraction to see his daily procession, preceded by his gardener pushing the wheelbarrow, the under-gardener carrying the tools and, following him, his butler with the newspaper, a deckchair and a flask of coffee. He then settles down for a comfortable hour while occasionally supervising the work, once reports on the local hunt have been read. Miss Simpson managed to unite everyone in communal outrage by using her plot to encourage fluffy bunnies, darling foxes, and sweet squirrels. She seemed to be particularly grateful to everyone else for providing fruit and vegetables for their happiness. Resolution was only achieved when she was convinced to grow potatoes, helping the Colonel in his war effort. Fortunately, he did not ask her to arrive equipped with the regulation gas mask. Our local architect seemed to spend most of his time beautifying his garden shed, rather than growing produce. With its gothic arched windows, Norman tower and flying buttresses, I do wonder if he may have spent rather too much of his time renovating ancient churches. Neighbouring plot-holders look forward to the agricultural equivalent of the Dissolution of the Monasteries. I am sure you will find you have committed yourself to many hours of unnecessary work. Just make sure you get a percentage of their produce for your Harvest Festival. Your loving uncle, Eustace Photo by david hughes on Unsplash
42 Ludlow St Laurence Parish Office 01584 872073 Office Administrator Nicky Luck Finance & Strategy Director Peter Nield Gift Aid Secretary Michael Hunt Director of Music Michael Oakley Custodian Matthew Lenthall Conservation Trust Chair Ian Marshall PCC Churchwardens Dick Franks 892019 Lesley Harling 318309 Assistant Churchwarden Michael Davies 07970 434822 Electoral Roll Officer Dick Franks 892019 Safeguarding Officer Dick Franks 892019 PCC Minutes Secretary Jacs Higgs 872073 Bible Reading Penelope Bridstrup 876992 Fellowship Flowers Sue Thornley 872292 Monthly Prayer Group Sandi Burley 873155 Tower Captain Richard Bracher 811514 Ludlow Tower editor Lesley Harling 318309 Find this and previous issues of the Ludlow Tower on line at www.stlaurences.org.uk Ludlow St John Parish Office Nicky Luck 872073 Churchwarden Mike Beazley 873570 Treasurer Mike Beazley 873570 PCC Secretary Mike Beazley 873570 Electoral Roll Sue Thomas 0792990671 Ashfords Benefice Rector Revd Lynn Money Parish Office Sarah Davies 01584 319381 Bromfield Benefice Rector Revd Justin Parker Parish Office Martin Scott 07493 247184 COPY DEADLINE FOR THE NEXT ISSUE TUESDAY 28 NOVEMBER There is no guarantee that material submitted will be included. Please send articles by email to [email protected] We are happy to receive contributions and suggestions for inclusion in the magazine. Please limit items to no more than 400 words, except by prior agreement with the editor. Parish of Ludlow Saint Laurence Registered Charity No 1132703 PARISH DIRECTORy Ludlow St Laurence Parish Office, 2 College Street, Ludlow, Shropshire. SY8 1AN (currently closed for refurbishment) e-mail: [email protected] website: www.stlaurences.org.uk For appointments (Monday or Thursday 9.30am-12.30pm at Hands Together Ludlow (Lower Galdeford) call 01584 872073 Rector: Revd Preb Kelvin Price 07799 243867 Pioneer Curate & Intergenerational Missioner: Revd Wayne Davies 07545 438892
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