Ashwell Village News- September 2021

Front cover, “Badger track in the ripe Barley”, by Fergus Moynihan, more details see p. 4.

1

2

Ashwell Village News - September 2021, St Mary’s

You will all know by now that at the end of this month we will be delighted to
welcome the Revd Chris Campbell and her family as our Rector to the Parishes of
Ashwell, Hinxworth and Newnham. Her Collation, Induction, and Installation (the
name given to the service in which she becomes Rector) takes place on Wednesday
29th Sept, and will be led by Rt Revd Alan Smith the Bishop of St Albans. The
Archdeacon of Hertford - The Venerable Janet McKenzie will also take part as well
as our Rural Dean - Revd Ruth Pyke. As many as possible will join to share in
witnessing this and welcoming Chris at the start of her new ministry in our parish
churches and villages. It’s an important and significant occasion for any Priest to
become Rector and begin a new ministry in new parishes and Chris will value our
prayers and support as she begins to get to know us and minister to us. In one part
of the service, we will hear Chris renew her commitment to ministry. We in turn will
also be asked to renew our commitment to the message of God’s love and work
with Chris in proclaiming that love.

Over the years I have been privileged to minister in 9 parishes (and along the way
to also be a prison Chaplain) and I’ve come to realise that the best analogy to
starting ministry in a new setting is to liken it to dancing with a new partner!

We will learn how to follow her lead and with her to hear the tune of God’s love in
Christ. Like any new dancing partners, we will, no doubt, tread on each other’s
toes, we will forget the tune and its rhythm - or at least forget to listen to it. The
best way of supporting each other is in prayer, in sharing worship together and in
creating friendships. As she will pray for us, we will pray for her, that together we
grow in faith, in understanding, in commitment to the mission we all have of
proclaiming God’s love in Christ. It is that mission which marks us out distinctively
as Christians – we are all called to share in discovering and telling and living the
story of how God’s love in Christ changes lives, situations, and circumstances. We
welcome Chris, Iain, and their family to live and be among us and we pray for
them.

Everliving God, strengthen and sustain our Rector, Chris, that with patience and
understanding she may love and care for your people; and grant that together we
may follow Jesus Christ, offering to you our gifts and talents; through him who
lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Cheers and blessings, Lindsay (Canon Lindsay Dew)

To read more about Chris in her own words please see page 13.

St Marys Contacts List

Please feel free to contact us.

Churchwardens:

Bernard 624564 [email protected]

Sarah 742182 [email protected]

Pastoral matters

Mark, our Reader 743451

[email protected]

Parish Church Office

Antje 01462 743922

[email protected]

3

Front cover artist

Thank you to Fergus Moynihan for the autumnal shot on this month’s cover.

We have had some brilliant contributions for the ‘Front Cover slot’ over the
last few months. Thank you to everyone who has sent suggestions or said yes
when asked!

We now need some more, and can consider drawings, paintings, photographs
and other works of art. Photographs work very well in portrait format and can
be of anything with a seasonal and Ashwell focus. Please send your
suggestions to [email protected]

Ashwell Yearbook 2022

The Ashwell Yearbook includes memorable events that have taken place in
the lives of Ashwell residents. Produced annually by the Parish Council, it is a
chronicle of events and affairs of our village.

If you have celebrated a wedding or a special anniversary (40, 50 or 60
years) or are planning to, I would like to hear from you.

As well as celebrations, the Yearbook has an obituary section entitled “Those
We Have Lost” about our residents who have sadly died.

I am now putting together articles for the 2022 edition focusing on the events
of 2021. Do you have something you would like to see included? Please do
not assume that we know about a celebration or an obituary, better to contact
us rather than missing out on the opportunity.

For further details, or to submit details of wedding, anniversary or an
obituary, please contact me

Madeleine Legg at [email protected] or telephone 742385

Please note that Ashwell Yearbook is a celebration of the events of the village
and of the lives of Ashwell residents during 2021. Regrettably, we are unable
to accept reports about people who do not have a direct connection or
association with the village or for an event that did not occur during 2021.

I would like to thank everyone who supported our
coffee morning on the 17th July at the URC. What a
lovely, warm summer’s day we had - in fact, probably
too warm for drinking coffee! My thanks also to
Rhubarb and Mustard for their help and very kind
donation.

To all those who made cakes – wow – we had
something for every taste and taste them you did,
even to the extent of making them a take away!

With the coffee morning and subsequent donations received, we raised the
wonderful total of £1,456.00!! This means that our total over the past 18
months, bearing in mind that we were able to do very little fundraising in that
time, has reached £2,900.00 with 4 months still left in the year. How
wonderful it would be if could reach over £3,000 by the end of 2021 for
Pancreatic Research.

Your ongoing support is so greatly appreciated and I cannot thank you all

enough. Christine Scholfield

4

Services

Sunday 5th September 10.45am TGIS this will be a
special outdoor service for Climate Sunday. All welcome, please bring a picnic
and dress for the weather. If necessary, we will move inside the church but
will keep distancing and we can still have our picnics!

As an outdoor service is planned there will be NO ZOOM that morning. We
hope that everyone will feel able to come to the outdoor service, or the said
communion in the evening. If you need TRANSPORT please ask!

The special licensing service for our new Rector Chris, is on Thursday 29th
September 7.30pm. This will be broadcast on Zoom as numbers will be
limited. Please contact a Church Warden for more information.

Martin Lush and Ruth West

We were very sorry to hear about the recent deaths of Martin and Ruth.
Martin worked quietly and kindly in lots of ways at St Mary’s and in the wider
village. His experience in many areas, was valuable. Ruth was also very kind
and helpful particularly with the Food Bank pre Covid, and we will miss them
both very much.

Martin Lush Carolyn and family have been overwhelmed with all the
lovely messages of sympathy they have received from

villagers since Martin’s passing on Sunday 15th August. Thanks to you all – it

has really helped us to cope at this sad time. So glad we made the decision to

come and live in Ashwell 22 years ago.

Liz Moynihan would like to thank everyone for lovely messages and cards for her knee op.

Publication

Ashwell Village News (AVN) is published by St Mary’s Church, as a service to
the community.

Correspondence, articles and advertisements in this magazine are not to be
taken as representing the views of either St Mary’s Church or of any of the
volunteers who produce the AVN.

All new articles please contact AVN Team. To avoid disappointment.
[email protected]

FINAL Deadlines for articles for October submission are:

Article Deadline 15th September

Advertising Deadline 10th September

Our AVN Team of volunteers are: Did you know that
the Ashwell Village
Julia Mitchell Advertising News is available

Richard Young Distribution online? ( eAVN )

Sarah Talks Editing https://tinyurl.com/
Ashwell-Village-News
Mark Eaton Finance

Alfie Talks Layout

Ian Chandler Useful Numbers

5

MEDALS WANTED

Collector & researcher pays highest prices for all medals:
military or civil, groups or single items.

Also buying other militaria, police and civil aviation items.

Tel: 01438 – 811657
[email protected]

Berry Accounting Services
Litlington, Royston

Offering a friendly personal service for small businesses

• Self Assessment Tax Returns
• Annual Accounts
• Tax Planning
• Business Start-up Specialist
• Business Planning & Support
• Compliance / Disputes with HMRC
• Mentoring
• VAT Returns
• Payroll Services

Contact Jim or Maeve to discuss your requirements
Tel: 01763 852622 Web: www.berryaccounts.co.uk
E-mail:[email protected] Mob: 07850 426325

6

9th September, 10:30am,
St Mary’s Church, Ashwell.
“A Career in Photography of Antiques Peter John Gates”.
All welcome. Caroline 743587

A few words from
ASHWELL UNITED REFORMED CHURCH

September is one of my favourite

SEPTEMBER 12TH AT months of the year. The weather is
10.45AM: CHRISTINE WARREN often beautiful with sunny days and
the golden light of autumn. There

SEPTEMBER 26TH AT 3PM: is a wistfulness also, of the ending
REVD STAN SHORT of another growing season and
thoughts of the passing of another

to include Holy Communion year. But, hopefully, there is thanks

- for a successful harvest and

MINISTERS WHO HELP ASHWELL URC: another bountiful year in our

Revd Tony Ruffell (North Herts Group of gardens and allotments, for all
Churches) Tel: 01462 619350 those good gifts around us.

Revd Jim Dalgleish Tel: 01763 257499 The gifts are not just the physical
ones of sunshine and rain along

Revd Stan Short Tel: 01767 315777 with good land for growing crops,

but the skills of all those who

cultivate, sow and harvest our food, on whatever scale and wherever in the

world. These are skills that will need to adapt to changing conditions – that

are already doing so in many parts of the world - to cope with flood, fire and

drought.

The apostle Paul writes to the new Christians in Corinth about all the different
kinds of gifts given to each one of us through the love and example of Jesus
Christ: gifts of wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, prophecy. Paul reminds the
readers of his letter that each of them / us has a body made up of many
different parts, all with different functions which together make us work as
one unit. And so it is with any organisation or group of people including
families and churches – by sharing our skills, we live and work more
harmoniously and successfully together.

So we must never take our combined skills, however small or limited we may
consider them, for granted. At the URC, we thank all those who have between
them organised and catered for our Saturday Teas during the summer, who
have led our worship on Sundays, who have co-ordinated the lettings in the
Hall and who are looking after our resources.

We look forward to welcoming you to our autumn events and special services:
Harvest Service: Sunday 26th September 3pm

Harvest Lunch: Saturday 2nd October 12 noon – 1.30pm.

Chris

7

In Senegal, it's the rainy season. It has become
routine for the Diapalante Community Education
Centre to close for August, it's a losing battle to fight
the wind and rain and the powercuts they cause,
better for the 3 staff to take their well deserved holiday. No sooner was this
arranged than two of them chose to give up their holiday when offered places
on a long delayed training course to get government certification as qualified
leaders of community youth projects. That's devotion to the job!

Two Diapalante fundraising events took advantage of the August sunshine in
Ashwell. A big thank you to the many people who supported the Diapalante
garden party in August. Despite a weather forecast of rain and thunderstorms
we had lovely weather and visitors donated a generous £1,500 towards the
work of the Diapalante Community Education Centre in Kaolack, Senegal.
Thank you also to Ashwell WI who invited us to cater for their afternoon tea.
Two lovely events celebrating the opportunity to socialise after so long!

Let's hope we all continue to move forward without any major setbacks as we
move indoors and towards winter.

Ashwell School PTA

Yard and Car Boot Sale!

When: It has been a tough year for us all, so why not

19th September fundraise for yourself or a local charity, whilst also
10.30-13.30 helping to raise funds for school. Hold a stall in your
garden or drive or book a stall in the school car park

if you live outside the village. A map of the stalls will

Where: be created and advertised. What you choose to sell

Your garden/ or what you do with the monies raised is up to you!
driveway/school car
To purchase your pitch, and join the event please
park visit the PTA online shop. You will find it under
events.

Cost: £5 per stall https://ashwellpta.my-online-store

The closing date for pitch/car boot plots is 15th
September.

Upcoming events

Who’s After the success of last year’s ‘Who’s that Guy?’ we will be running
That it again and hoping even more of the village will get involved.
Guy?
When? 31st October-7th November. Timings and details to be
confirmed.

Fireworks Display If restrictions allow this will be on 6th November at the
tennis club.

We are looking forward to being back to putting events on in the village as we

have missed doing these over the last 18 months. Best wishes, The PTA

8

Desert Island Discs

Harry (14) is our youngest contributor to D.I.D. but his musical choices show he has
maturity beyond his years. His early life was spent in London, the eldest child to Dom
and Marie-Louise before life took them to Newnham where they have lived ever since
along with his sister Florence (12) and brother Arthur (10). His love of acting and
musical theatre has become a reality with him performing in several famous shows.

Star Track - Where Is My Mind by Maxence Cyrin
This is a tune that I have grown to love despite the relentless piano practice of my
sister while she tried to learn to play it. What once made me mad is what I now turn to
to relax. I feel at complete peace.

Track 2 - 7 Seconds by Youssou N’Dour
This song will forever be up there in the “Harry charts”. I was introduced to it in
Portugal; with both of my siblings asleep in the car this song came on the radio and my
parents said to me you’re going to love it. It has become the anthem of our holidays
wherever we go with all of us singing along at the top of our voices (only understanding
one of the three languages sung!).

Track 3 - Over The Rainbow by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole
Over the years I have done a few acting jobs and various auditions for singing roles. I
have always had a passion for acting. For my first ever musical audition I was asked to
sing this song. This version is definitely my favourite.

Travel 4 - Hotel California by The Eagles
In my household there has always been a conflict between, on the one hand, Dad and
Arthur who are into older music and, on the other, me and Florence as we are more
into more modern tracks. Despite this, I love this classic song which has really
connected the whole family.

Travel 5 - Bittersweet Symphony by The Verve
On various journeys to Norfolk visiting family this is a tune me and my Dad always sing
along to. I love the combination of the classical tune and the modern lyrics and rhythm.

Travel 6 - Blinding Lights by The Weeknd
The song of 2020 how could I not include it? This is a tune that everyone can all dance
along to and escape what was a very challenging and difficult year for so many people
because of the pandemic.

Track 7 - The Sound Of Music by Christopher Plummer
When I was 10, I was cast in the UK and Ireland tour of The Sound of Music directed by
Bill Kenwright. For 6 months we performed in huge theatres in cities such as Edinburgh,
Dublin and Manchester. This song brings back happy memories of that unique
experience. Before we performed this song on stage we had a frantic change from full
lederhosen to the iconic sailors outfits in 45 seconds before we were rushed back on
stage, which was slightly terrifying. It was an amazing experience and I loved every
minute of it.

Track 8 - Non-stop, by The Cast of Hamilton
I am a big fan of musicals and Hamilton is by far my favourite. It is impossible to
decide my favourite song from Hamilton but Non Stop is as good as any. When I saw it
live I was mesmerised by how slick and smooth the performance was. I am still blown
away by the brilliant and powerful lyrics written by Lin Manuel Miranda.

Book - The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown
I could read this over and over and still be perplexed and surprised by the complexity
and genius of the novel created by its brilliant author. It is by far my favourite book
and I devoured it.

Luxury item- A radio
I have always been very interested in the news and keeping up with current affairs and
sport. Listening to music and the radio always helps me relax.

Thanks Harry – your love of musicals clearly heading to the island with you. You can
see Harry’s choices here tinyurl.com/hee6envn for you all to enjoy.

9

10

100 Years Ago - June 1921

September is the time for
Harvest Festivals and both
the Congregational and the Wesleyan Churches had
one. Mrs W A Fordham held a Harvest Supper at
Redlands Grange for all the farm workers on her
estate.
James Waldock retired after 46 years as organ blower
for the Parish Church. In all that time he had served
with only 2 organists, Mr Chote and Mr Biles, both
were headmasters at the Merchant Taylors School.
On the sports field the football season got under way
with a disappointing set of results. The First team lost
2 -1 to Kimpton, the Reserves had a goalless draw
with Letchworth Corinthians then lost to Offley, while in Division II the Seniors were
beaten 3-0 at Walkern.
The cricket season played out a little better with wins against Mr C Parrish’s XI and
Stotfold but playing the new league champions, Arlesey, they lost by 19 runs.
An auction sale at the Three Tuns for the Trustees of Egbert Independent Friendly
Society offered the following properties:
Lot 1 – Pair stud and plaster cottages, South High St, Ashwell, freehold, in occupation
of Joseph Waldock and Thos. Goodchild @ £11 p.a. bought by Mr Thurgood for £150.
Lot 2 - Freehold ground as now let with lot 1 frontage of 115 ft to Back St and return
frontage about 117 ft to Wilson’s Lane. Bought by Mr Thurgood for £50.
Lot 3 - Pair of freehold brick and slate cottages, High St, 3-room workshop, barn and
outbuildings at rear, in occupation of Mr William Parish at rent of £14-6s p.a. Sold to Mr
Angell for £180.
Lot 4 - Plot of freehold arable land adjoining south side of Ashwell Street, 3r 2p, let to
Mr James Pack at 25s p.a., bought by Mr Reynolds for £31.
We are still working out where these properties are. Lot 1 and 2 could be the ‘Old
Cottage’ and the land adjoining it which now includes the Rectory and two houses in
Back Street. Lot 3 could be the 2 cottages opposite Ashwell Pharmacy.
A meeting was held at the Merchant Taylors School concerning the purchase and
conversion of a building to provide a Village Hall for Ashwell. Offers and ideas that
would cost £3,000 or £4,000 were thought out of the question but the large malting at
Mr Page’s old brewery in West End was more acceptable. The Chairman explained to all
it was not the Brewery building but the malting at the top of the yard. The cost of the
old building would be £500 and £75 had already been collected. The architect approved
the proposal and had costed the alteration at £678, which was generously promised by
Mrs W Fordham. There was one condition: it should be affiliated to the Village Clubs
Association. Mr Walkden said it had freehold and was of good value. Although far from
Rec it was still a good memorial to the late Mr WA Fordham especially with Mrs
Fordham’s generous offer. All agreed the project should go ahead.
Mr Henry Monks of Windyside, Ashwell was campaigning to improve the train service to
Cambridge. He reckoned that because of the lack of trains at least 66 scholars were
losing one hours schooling each day.

At the Gransden & District Agricultural Show Mr VA
Angell of Ashwell and Cockayne Hatley won 2 First
Prizes and a Reserve in horse classes, a First for
Red Wheat and a third for his Mangels.
In the Parish Council meeting it was reported that
the lowest tender for new posts and steps at
Springs had come from Baileys, the local builders,
and the work was now under way.
The W.I. Lecture this month, given by the Rev A M
Perkins, was titled ‘How we won the Empire of the
seas’, a subject that today would have quite a
different twist to it. Musical events and songs
added a note of jollity to the evening.

11

Natalie Terry Virtual PA

Offers a range of business support services to
Enable you and your business to run smoothly.
• Diary Management
• Telephone and email assistance
• Office administration
• Data entry

Contact Natalie Terry
Mobile 07929 276639 Tel 01462 742948
Email [email protected]

12

Introducing Revd Christine Campbell

Hello, my name is Chris Campbell and I am looking forward
to joining you shortly as Rector of Ashwell with Hinxworth
and Newnham. I will be moving into the Rectory in Ashwell
with my husband, Iain, and two daughters, Charlotte and
Emily.
I grew up in Surrey, and lived there until heading to
university, where I studied Applied Mathematics at
Imperial. After university I spent a couple of years working
in charity fundraising, before starting as a Mathematics
teacher at a Church of England secondary school in central
London. I loved teaching and have retained a real enthusiasm for working
alongside children and young people. Iain and I were married in 2006, and a
couple of years later I took a career break to begin our family. We first lived in
Surrey (apart from a few months in Oslo), but eventually settled in
Cambridgeshire when Charlotte was 2: her sister, Emily arrived the day after we
moved in!
Having attended church regularly as a child, like many young adults I grew
frustrated by the church and the number of questions I had, and I ended up
drifting away from faith. Although we were married in church, and occasionally
went back, it wasn’t until having children and moving to a village that I
discovered a new desire to join a church community. The warm welcome, and
amazing baptism ministry, that we received from the church when we moved to
Waterbeach was transformative and meant that we kept coming back, and I
soon found myself getting more and more involved in Church life; starting with
the Sunday School and Mother’s Union, and growing to many other aspects of
ministry. My experience of leaving church, and then finding my way back, means
that I am passionate about the inclusive love of God and the church’s vocation
to share that love through generous welcome and hospitality.
Gradually, and with a certain amount of nudging, I felt God calling me to
ordained ministry, and after a period of discernment, I began ordination training
at Westcott House in 2016. I have just completed my curacy at St John the
Evangelist on Hills Road in Cambridge; a reasonably large, single-parish church,
with a wonderful choral tradition. Whilst there I have discovered a passion for
preaching and creative ministry, and have led our ministry with children, young
people and families, as well as much of our online ministry during the pandemic.
I have greatly enjoyed my time at St John’s and will miss my colleagues,
congregation and community, but am really looking forward to immersing myself
in village life and a more rural setting.
As a family, we love spending time in nature, both walking and wildlife spotting,
so we’re excited about discovering new walks and places to explore in North
Hertfordshire. We also love paddle-boarding and kayaking, so will be on the
lookout for suitable rivers (I’m not sure the Springs are deep enough!) When the
weather isn’t so good, I can be found curled up with a cuppa, reading, playing
board games or building with Lego.
As I write I’m currently wrestling with removal companies to get our move
booked – but all being well we hope to arrive in Ashwell in early September,
before I begin as Rector at the end of the month. After my licensing service on
the 29th September, I’ll be arranging a few coffee mornings and walks
(depending on how active you feel), which will be open to anyone who would like
to join me, as a way to get to know both you and the villages better. Dates to be
announced soon – all will be welcome.

13

September by Hilaire Belloc

Lo! a ripe sheaf of many golden days
Gleaned by the year

in autumn's harvest ways,
With here and there,

blood-tinted as an ember,
Some crimson poppy of a late delight
Atoning in its splendor for the flight
Of summer blooms and joys
This is September.

Macmillan Coffee Morning
Saturday 25th September

10am - 12noon
Ashwell URC Hall

We look forward to seeing
you all there again this year

14

Rose & Crown Folk: Harvest

Monday 6th September 8:30pm - Hey, John Barleycorn
(Celebrating the Harvest Home)

So pass the bottle round and let
the toast go free

Here's a health to every
labourer wherever they may be

Fair wages now and ever, let's
reap what we have sown

When we go rolling home, when
we go rolling home

(“Rolling Home” John Tams)

Once the harvest has been gathered in there has always been, throughout
England, the traditional celebration of Harvest Home, which usually includes
food and drink, singing and dancing. While it seems to have died out in
Ashwell in the early part of the 20th Century, St Mary’s Church revived the
tradition in 2005, with a harvest supper. Originally this was a meal followed
by singing but in 2007, it developed into a meal with a barndance. COVID-19
put a stop to this last year but, hopefully, it will continue again soon.
A post-harvest custom which was observed in Ashwell until the 1960s was
Gleaning. Gathering up the leftovers after the harvest is done was a common
law right in England, as it still is in much of Europe, until 1788 when a
wealthy Suffolk landowner took exception to an old woman gleaning on his
land. Though he initially failed in his lawsuit, he appealed as far as the High
Court and finally won his case because the judge decided that the right to
land was “absolute”. This is an idea which, in the 20th Century, was finally
killed by the “right to roam” legislation. Now, though, gleaning must be done
with the consent of the landowner.
In Ashwell, once a field had been cleared the gleaners were allowed in to pick
up the surplus. A shock of corn left standing near the entrance signalled that
the farmer didn’t want people on the field. During the season, a bell was rung
from St Mary’s church tower at 9:00am and 5:00pm to signal the beginning
and end of gleaning. The gleaners’ bell was discontinued during World War 2
(bellringing was stopped for the duration of the war) and never revived.
During the World War, and in the years following, gleaning was more popular
than ever, both for chicken feed and to grind into flour to supplement rations.
Women gleaners wore a sacking apron turned up to form a kind of envelope,
leaving both hands free and children wore a bag made out of an old sheet
tied round their waist. As we went into the 1950s, though, the keeping of
backyard chickens declined and we came off rations. Gleaning died out. Not
everywhere, though. In the 1960s, I went gleaning in Bourn, Cambs, with an
elderly lady who kept chickens. What amazed me then was the amount of
waste left in the fields by harvesting with combine harvesters.
If you’d like to know more about our folk session and our music, please get in
touch.
Ian Chandler
[email protected] 743091

15

16

Accies update

The Ashwell Academicals youth football club provides a safe and welcoming
environment for children of all abilities to express themselves through sport.
We encourage young people to try their hardest, have fun and enjoy
themselves.
8 teams ranging from under 7’s to under 14’s are registered to play competitive matches
as members of Royston Crow Youth Football League, often with more than one team per
age group. An Under 6's team also trains each week having great fun in preparation to
enter the league when they reach the Under 7's age bracket.
If you drive past Ashwell Rec on a Saturday morning you will see that it is a hive of
activity, the two pitches there are almost always in constant use hosting matches from
10am to 12pm, and you'll see the fun and excitement that the children gain from
participating in this wonderful sport. The older age groups play at SmallGains Lane which
is similarly at full capacity most Saturday and Sunday mornings on the bigger pitches. The
Accies cater for all abilities, we take Lionel Messis and My Messys, it's all about
participation.
As we prepare for the new football season that begins in September we can look back on
the successes of the 2020/21 season:
• The under 12’s had an almost unbeaten record gaining promotion to a higher division.
• The under 18’s season culminated in a thrilling Cup Semi-Final which they unfortunately

lost in the very last minute to deny them a fitting finale in a Cup Final.
• Under 13's reached the final of the Tri-Counties Cup competition and met Letchworth

Garden City in the Final. There was a great atmosphere down at the Small Gains ground
as the Accies took a 2-1 lead with 10--minutes to play and the large home crowd was
getting very excited.....Letchworth eventually got an equaliser with less than 5-minutes
left and then showed their strength to score a last minute winner (it's a recurring
theme!) to thwart the Accies It was a great occasion ensuring that a tough season of
interruptions, finished on a high.
A new addition this year is the Accies Girls team which covers Under 10's and 11's who
will participate in the Hertfordshire Girls League. The team is looking for new players to
join the squad, so come on girls....give it a go!
Many of the teams are mixed with boys and girls playing together. There are also girls
specific training sessions from Under 7's through Under 12's. These have included
occasional visits from professional Ladies football players.
A few words from Billie who plays for the mixed under 13’s team:
“My favourite part of playing for the Accies is that it is like playing with family. I grew up
with most of my team through pre-school and school. It is a gift to be able to meet up
twice a week to play a game we all love. I am grateful for the support from the coaches
who give up their free time to support us.”
“My overall best moment of the season was being brought back together after lockdown,
not just to play football but to see each other and start to return to some sort of
normality.”
For more information about our youth football teams go to our website or email
[email protected]

17

18

Alison Gates, Sewing Classes

Alison, who moved to Ashwell with her family seven years ago, has always been
creative and a maker. Following a degree in design and jewellery making, Alison
looked to the wider creative world, teaching, painting and sewing.
During time spent living in the Middle East, unable to work, Alison discovered
that local people often had their clothes made by tailors in the marketplaces.
People would choose their fabric and without patterns, the tailors knew how
much fabric was needed for any particular style and size. Watching the tailors at
work, and with an extensive haberdashery stall to enjoy, Alison began to make
clothes and other craft items. When the family returned to the UK, she set up a
company called Green Cat Design, making prom dresses, wedding dresses and
outfits, but she also became more aware of the value in altering, transforming
and mending existing clothes. Alison’s daughter likes to find things in charity
shops which they then transform into unique outfits which is very sustainable.
Recognising how important it is for people to feel comfortable in their clothes,
and how good it is to be able to mend a favourite piece, has led Alison to set up
her new classes in Ashwell this autumn. The classes will be held in the URC Hall
on Mondays and are for 6-8 people. There are some spaces for the evening slot,
and if there is sufficient interest Alison might look for other days and locations.
Please bring your own sewing machine if you can. Each week the class will work
on tasks, beginning with simple stitching and building up to understanding
commercial patterns, buying fabric and cutting out and fitting.
Three years ago, Alison applied to be on the popular television show, Sewing
Bee. After making it through the auditions, down to the last twenty or so, it
wasn’t to be. It was a very enjoyable process however, and Alison describes
how difficult it was to stop laughing with the other contestants and concentrate
on the sewing!
To find out more or book a place on one of the courses please contact Alison
directly.

19

20

From an English Country Garden… Thugs

If you will allow me a spot of anthropomorphizing, I often see the plants in my gardens as
faithful old friends who return each year to make their contribution to the moderately
chaotic display of which I am nominally in charge. Each one of them has its own character.
There are the intrepid snowdrops who kick off the season, and the shy spring Amenomes
that bloom and then vanish completely into the soil when their small moment of glory
passes. I love my self-effacing Polemonium with their nodding blue flowers, and the soft
waving heads of Verbena bonariensis who pop up wherever they fancy. My voluptuous
peonies wilt like exhausted divas if it rains at the wrong moment, but I admire the clumps
of showy Agapanthus who stand proudly in the heat of midsummer. And then there are
the super troopers like Salvia and Helenium who flower repeatedly in a never-ending effort
to please.
Then there are the thugs, the ones that start beautifully but take over, spreading across
territory intended for others, until the weaker plants gradually give up. Lovely though they
may be, the thugs simply get out of hand. So what should we do with them?
Fortunately, in the right place some thugs can be useful. I inherited a
thriving patch of Teucrium chamaedrys in full sun but it soon started
weaving its way between and under my irises, and spreading into the
gravel path. Relocated to a dry and slightly less sunny patch under a
tree, however, it is much more restrained. As nothing else is a happy
under the tree, it isn’t competing with (or strangling) anything else, and
it has enough light to produce its signature carpet of pink flowers. Lily
of the Valley is another thug, blessed with very fragrant flowers but
definitely a spreader. I have found it can be useful ground cover in a
shrub border where it isn’t crowding out other herbaceous perennials.

Houttuynia cordata is a different kind of thug, less well-known in
Hertfordshire, but common in Cornwall. You may have seen the green
leafed one, or better still the cultivar ‘Chameleon’ with striking
splashes of bright red on its leaves. But however appealing,
Houttuynia should carry a warning about being invasive: if planted by
a stream or a pond, it would quickly take over, sending its little white
roots everywhere with great speed. It is very difficult to eradicate.
But in Cornish gardens with coastal winds and thinner soils, it seems
to keep itself in check.
Phygellius, the cape fuchsia, is another thug, but one I will make room for.
It has lovely drooping tubular flowers and is a good repeat flowerer. It
comes back year after year, whatever the weather, and tolerates those
random periods of neglect to which I occasionally subject my pot plants
(oops). But thank goodness I put it in a container, for like mint, it sends out
runners that root as they go along. You can keep it under control in the
border by cutting off the runners, but that requires a degree of vigilance
most of us can’t muster!
The two thugs I really struggle with in my garden are Japanese
anemones and Alstromeria. I haven’t found a way to keep either of
them under control. Seduced by the charm of a clump of Japanese
anemones I found in a deep shady spot, I naively planted some in a
sunnier position. Needless to say, they did not stay put, but went on a
rampage, venturing into the lawn where they surprisingly survived
being mowed. They have now passed under the lawn and made it into a
second bed, and from there into a third. I have since learnt about
smaller less vigorous cultivars which are much better behaved, but the
thugs are still with me.
Alstroemeria is even worse. Lovely though it looks in a vase, it spreads by
seed as well as by its deep fleshy roots. However hard I try to dig them
out, little bits of the brittle fleshy roots remain and re-sprout. It is one of
the few plants I have never offered to anyone, (except as a cut flower) as I
could not in all conscience inflict it on another gardener.

Susan Greenbank

21

22

Pets Photo Competition

Join in our Pet Photo Competition and win a
place in our Pets Advent Calendar.

Get snapping your furry friends and enter our

photo competition. Winners will star in our free

online 2021 Pets Advent Calendar (Diapalante.org/

advent-calendar).

We are looking for a wide range of pets and

photos, but please avoid having people in the photo

where possible.

To enter or to buy an entry for someone else visit

Diapalante.org/competition. Entries cost £5 for 1 or

2 photos -The competition is open until 31st

October and is raising funds for Diapalante's

Community Education Centre in Senegal, West

Africa.

Thanks again for your support.

Liz Chandler, Diapalante (01462 743091)

Forest School

If you have wondered, as I did, what was happening in the pine woods at the
top of Claybush Hill, wonder no longer! It is the site of a pre-school Forest
School called Nature Wanderers. Offering an ‘outdoor, stimulating learning
experience’ for children aged from 2 to 5 years old in term time and a holiday
club for children for 2 to 11 years old. Sessions are half or whole days, with
lunch that the children can choose to help cook and prepare themselves.

Activities include den building, learning about habitats, art and crafts with
natural materials, learning to use tools and make controlled fires and reading,
singing, performing and dancing. Nature Wanderers was founded by Lisa Peters
and is run by Lisa and her team, trained in Forest School and childcare settings.

An open day took place in August but to discover more about the Forest School
system and Nature Wanderers in particular, please see their website
naturewanderers.co.uk.

23

24

Wolves and doors: Paula Turney

Paula Turney is the owner of ‘Home Affairs’, an interior
design company based in Ashwell. I spoke to Paula in her
elegant design studios in Mill Street, a building many
Ashwellians will know as the former residence of the
Whitby sisters. The interior has of course changed a lot,
but has retained a quirky charm and strong sense of
character. In the main reception room, Paula, with her
eye for texture and colour, has created a colourful and
calming artistic space. Here is her eclectic collection of
furnishings and many samples of fabrics and it is here
that she designs schemes for the interiors of her clients.

I asked Paula how she got started in interior design. She explained that her
mother had encouraged her to pursue her artistic leanings and so after
studying Art for A’ level, she went on to study at the prestigious Inchbald
School of Design in London. After that, she worked and travelled for a few
years, ending up working for ‘Home Affairs’ in Cambridge, a business which
Paula eventually bought while still in her mid 20s. ‘Home Affairs’ moved to a
large Victorian building in Trumpington in 2006. The business grew and thrived
and by 2016, Paula was employing a team of people, including designers and
fabric makers. This all led to her inevitably spending the majority of her time
running the business rather than doing the designing she loved best. Because
of this, Paula took the decision in 2016 to sell the premises in Cambridge and
move to Ashwell.

Paula struck me as being very content with the current arrangements. The
studio in Mill Street may not be as huge as the premises in Cambridge, but it
seems roomy and at the same time comfortable. Paula now works on her own,
so she no longer needs to worry about the overheads and burdens involved in
employing a team of people and running many projects concurrently. Today,
she is able to look after just a few clients really well and most of her clients are
return business from the Cambridge days. As Paula usually visits her
customers at their homes rather than them coming to her, the move of
premises has not affected their allegiance to her. She is certainly not
struggling to find work to do.

So, Paula’s lucky clients will call on her for advice on how to furnish and dress
either individual rooms or whole houses. All her work is for private clients.
After an initial consultation, Paula uses a drawing board to sketch out a design
and will advise on the entire layout of a room including paints, wallpapers,
curtains, floor coverings and furnishings. Once a scheme is agreed, she will
usually arrange the reupholstery and supply the furniture and fabrics.

Paula is inspired in her designs by all sorts of things. She really notices colours
around her, whether in nature or art. She also seeks out inspiration by, for
example, visiting the design showrooms at Chelsea Harbour, where the textiles
and furnishings on show are not available on the High Street. She seeks to
create timeless interiors, which are unaffected by changing fashions and so
prove their value through their longevity.

I didn’t ask Paula why she chose Ashwell. The fact that her husband ‘Crumpy’
owns the butchers a few doors away speaks for itself. Now Paula is a few steps
away from her home and her heart. What could be more perfect?

Fionnuala F.G.

25

RT HON SIR OLIVER HEALD QC

MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT
FOR NORTH EAST HERTFORDSHIRE

If you have any concerns please contact me
Email: [email protected]
Telephone : 01462 486074
or look on www.oliverhealdmp.com

26

Caldecote Church Vandalism

A telephone call late on Thursday, 29
July, sent icy shivers down my spine –
our tiny church in Caldecote had been
targeted by vandals! The scene which
met us by torchlight was that of
devastation – a whole interior, just
cleaned when the contractors finally left,
covered in white powder from two fire
extinguishers which the vandals set off. A
detailed inspection the following morning
also revealed broken glass in the north
windows, a spray bottle of domestic
bleach all over the chancel floor, general

mess and broken bits and pieces.

An unprovoked and mindless attack, made
easy by the fact that the church was
unlocked, caused shock waves of anger
and dismay across local community and
social media. But it also revealed the best
of human nature – compassion,
selflessness and generosity of complete
strangers, who would turn up in Caldecote
with offers of help – and with

refreshments! In no
time, the worst of
the powder was
removed. So, you can imagine how we felt when, a
couple of days later, the church was attacked again!
This time the perpetrators – we strongly suspect they
were the same people - could not get inside so,
instead, broke more
glass in the windows.

To-date, in a church
so tiny, the clean-up
operation is almost at
an end: several ladies
volunteered to polish
all wooden furniture;
a stained-glass artist will shortly repair both
smashed windows; and John from Ashwell
kindly offered to repair a book rest on top of
the pulpit,
accidentally damaged
in a clean-up operation.

We will not be daunted by an irresponsible behaviour
of a handful of individuals - following
recommendations from the Crime Protection Officer we
will shortly re-open the church for the delight of
genuine visitors and old churches’ enthusiasts.

27

28

Ashwell and Bassingbourn Surgery Patient’s Group

We try to place information in the Village News that comes from the group,
particularly for those who may not be able to access information online.
Unfortunately, we do not have space to print the minutes of the recent
meeting in full but topics covered included the recruitment of a new Practice
Manager who started in August. The system that has seen Ashwell Surgery
used as a ‘cold’ site with very limited patient access, while Bassingbourn is a
‘warm’ site for face-to-face consultations was explained. More information will
be published about this, but patients are encouraged to explain their situation
if travel to Bassingbourn is difficult.
More in person consultations should be available now, using locum cover but
many people will still be offered digital consultations. It was acknowledged
that there had been ‘a tsunami’ of demand on all GP services across the
region. Surgery-patient relations had deteriorated, and unacceptable
behaviour is an issue nationally.
Problems with the phone system at the surgery were reported, particularly
people being cut off after queuing for a long time. This was being
investigated.
Some may not be aware of the Patient’s Group which was set up in 2007. You
can contact the group via the Chairman, or apply to join the group via the
surgery website.
The Patient Group has set itself three focus areas:

• Health Promotion

• Improving patient transport arrangements

• Better communications, for example, by utilising existing village
newsletters, and providing user feedback.
If you have any suggestions, especially about future Health Promotion events,
please contact Peter Chapman, the Ashwell PGG Chairman on 01462 742977.
Please fill out our PPG Registration form on the Ashwell Surgery website if
you would like to join the Patient Group.

Jackie Embury, excellent family history researcher

Ashwell Museum and individuals in the village and further afield have benefitted from very
thorough and well written research undertaken by Jackie. For some time now, Jackie has been
working on her Ashwell Families Tree, making connections between people who lived and
worked in the village and their descendants. Recently Jackie completed a file on the Quaker
Burial Ground, which is surrounded by houses on Angell’s Meadow. Many Ashwell people
probably don’t even know this place exists, or about the history of the Friends Meeting
House. 60 burials are listed in the file, dating from 1687 to 1936 and there are links to six current
Ashwell families. One fascinating note in the Ashwell Parish Register from 1730 reads ‘in this year
dy’d of the smallpox 65 persons.’ It must have been a very difficult and frightening year.

Jackie has written many pages for the Ashwell Museum Website, for which we are very grateful.

To find out more please look at www.ashwellmuseum.org.uk or contact Sarah at 742182

29

As you probably already know, the Horticultural Society have decided to hold
their annual show – on Saturday 4 September in the United Reformed Church
Hall at 2.00 pm. It will be a very different sort of show – no normal judging,
no raffle, no refreshments – but hopefully lots of entries to grow and show.
There will be four distinct classes: a fruit basket, a vegetable basket, a pot
plant and a vase of flowers. Entries can be brought to the URC Hall from 1.00
– 2.00 pm, please ensure your entry is clearly labelled, and please, only one
entry in each class. The Hall will be open from 2.00 to 4.00 pm, so please
come and view the exhibits, whether you enter any of the classes or not. We
hope to introduce a one-way route through the Hall, ensuring we keep safe
and socially distanced from other visitors. Martyn Hird, our membership and
subscriptions secretary, will be there to welcome any new or potential
members to the Society. Entries should then be removed at 4.00 pm.
The following day Jeremy Fordham has kindly agreed to host a final Open
Garden 2021 for all our members and friends on Sunday 5 September from
2.00 – 4.00 pm in his garden: The Barn House Odsey Park Baldock SG7 6SD
We will be serving sparkling wine, to match the beautiful garden and ask you
to bring a glass and £3.00 each to cover the cost of refreshments etc.
If you have any queries about the Show or the open garden, please consult
our website: ashwellhortics.chessck.co.uk or speak to one of the members of
committee.
We look forward to a ‘2021 Show to Remember’
Margaret Gilliam Chair
[email protected] Tel. 01462 742040

30

Ashwell and District branch

Due to Covid-19, like most organisation the last
eighteen months has seen our activities curtailed, so we are delighted to be
planning events again and this is what has been arranged for the remainder
of 2021….

Annual General Meeting - Monday 18th October
Venue TBC – 7.30pm

Poppy Collection - 23rd October – 6th November
House to house collection to be confirmed.
Central collection point (opposite Ashwell Museum) Sat 23rd & 30th Oct and 6th
Nov

Remembrance Sunday – 14th November
Church Service at the URC - 10am (tbc) followed by
Act of Remembrance at the War Memorial - 11am

Remembrance Lunch – Saturday 20th November
The Bushel & Strike - 12.30pm – Tickets £25

Centenary of the War Memorial – Saturday 4th December
This year sees the centenary of the Dedication of the village War Memorial.
We plan to hold a short act of thanksgiving at 2.30pm followed by
refreshments in the Pavilion.

Your branch needs you!
We are appealing for someone to fill the role of branch secretary. If you’d like
to know more, please do get in touch.

Chairman, Canon Lindsay Dew – 07545878082
Vice Chair – Andrew Gillborn - 742730
Treasurer – Rita Lewis - 742474

Friends of Ashwell Museum

We have been very pleased to welcome Visitors again to the Museum and we
hope that we can continue in this way as well as looking forward to one or
two events in the Autumn.
On Saturday 16th October we will host an Open Morning in the Museum
between 10-12pm. All are welcome. If you are interested in Volunteering this
will be an opportunity to have a look round and ask any questions. We will
offer you coffee or tea as well!
Wednesday 27th October will be a ticketed talk in the URC Hall, 8pm,
£6 ‘Farming in Ashwell from the 1800s to the Present Day’ by local farmer
Sam Wallace. Tickets available from David and Sue Hall 743799 , Karen Mills
742155 or in the Museum when open.
We are not planning any coach trips until 2022 but will advise when more is
known. Meanwhile keep well, thank you for your support and look forward to
meeting up again in the autumn
Karen Mills
Opening Times of the Museum 2.30-5pm Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays
or other times by appointment with Peter Greener Curator.

31

Chairman: Graham Lee (743126)

Office at Bear Farm, 6A Back Street (743706)

Clerk: Jane Porter, Deputy Clerk: Laura Brooks-Payne

www.ashwell.gov.uk [email protected]

Jottings: Parish Council

‘Catch-Up Notes’ from the Parish Council Meeting held on Wednesday 4th August 2021

A number of matters were discussed that merit reporting to the wider Village
community. Please contact us if you have any questions or comments about any of the
following:

Telecoms Mast Planning Application. An application has been made to NHDC for the
installation of an 18 metre high 5G mast at the rear of Ashwell school in Ashwell Street.
Several residents have expressed concerns that the proposed location is not suitable. It
would have a very negative impact on the conservation area including views to the
Grade 1 Listed St Mary’s Church. There were also highways safety concerns re the
proximity to the school entrance and other safety issues will inevitably be raised. The
Parish Council has already made contact with the NHDC Planning Officer to request
further information including the technical constraints on finding a location. However, a
village resident with relevant expertise has also been consulted and his assessment of
the proposed equipment to be installed (which he identified as for 4G, not 5G) is that
the coverage to be provided would allow the mast to be sited outside the village built
environment, which would be far more preferable. The Parish Council is providing this
information and other environmental concerns to NHDC ahead of the NHDC decision
deadline of 9th September. The matter will be debated and a response agreed at the
next PC meeting on 1st September.

‘Warm-up’ Music Festival at Bygrave Woods / Newnham. The PC had learnt that
a 4 day event was scheduled from 19th – 22nd August. District Councillor Tom Tyson
noted that this had not been well publicised in Ashwell, nor had the Parish Council been
informed. He had spoken to the NHDC Licensing Manager and it seems that all the
requirements of the license had been met. The Chairman of Bygrave Parish Council had
met with the local organiser and gained assurance that all legal sound levels would be
observed and monitored in association with NHDC. It was agreed that Ashwell Parish
Council would be included in all communications with NHDC. It was noted that some
local businesses benefited from these events. As this event will have taken place by the
time this article is printed please contact the Parish Council if you were affected by the
festival.

Cycle & Footpath to Ashwell & Morden Station. NHCD have run a consultation on
walking and cycling infrastructure routes in North Herts. A local parishioner has acted
for the Parish Council in pressing the case for raising the priority of a cycleway to the
station. The new District Plan identified Ashwell as a ‘sustainable’ community because of
its good transport links; so safe pedestrian/cycling access to the station should be
provided to comply with this. Two options for an enhanced route to the station were
under consideration. A shorter route using Station Road and a longer route using the
Shire Balk; neither would overcome the issues of the narrow section and ‘blind bend’ by
the county boundary. The longer route would be positive for Steeple Morden residents
and their support is to be encouraged.

Planning. Two householder applications were considered by the Parish Council, both of
which were supported by the Parish Council. There was also an application to improve
the play area surface at the Village Hall, which was also supported by the PC.

War Memorial – Lucas Lane / Station Road junction

Herts County Council are conducting a consultation with Ashwell
residents over plans to improve the safety of pedestrian crossing
points on Lucas Lane and Station Road.

The narrowing of the Lucas Lane junction by the War Memorial has
been proposed to slow vehicles turning at the junction making it
easier for pedestrians to cross and improve safety for cyclists.
Narrowing the junction will also create space in front of the war
memorial for pedestrian use only that can be used during memorial

32

services.
Two pedestrian crossings are being proposed along Station Road to help pedestrians
cross and there is a plan to extend the footway between Walkden’s and Ashwell Street
so that residents don’t have to cross the road.
Next Parish Council Meeting – 1st September 2021

Outstanding Service

Recently two parishioners received letters from the Bishop of St Albans, thanking
them for their many years of service to St Mary’s Church. Robert Sheldrick has
quietly worked as the Verger for some years but has also notched up a very
impressive seventy years as a bellringer. Bell ringing is one of those activities that
had to stop in the recent lockdowns but has now resumed and the bells have rung
out to celebrate weddings this summer.

Olive Anderson has been a member of the choir for sixty-eight years, faithfully
singing as a treble or soprano voice. Although Olive has retired from the choir now,
we might persuade her back for some guest appearances at weddings for friends
and choir family coming up in the next year. Olive wants to thank the person who
wrote and notified the Bishop of her long service.

Choir was also suspended for some months but is back now, as is hymn singing for
the congregation. We are fortunate at St Mary’s to have wonderful singers,
musicians, bell ringers and helpers in many ways. Not everyone can notch up
seventy years in one church, but we appreciate you all!

Margie, our president, welcomed us to our first live meeting
since February 2020 and said how lovely it was to be together
again and that we should suit ourselves as to whether we wore
masks or not. She then introduced four members of ‘Welwyn
Harmony’ who had come to entertain us with singing, a Power-
point presentation and some tuition. They said that this was the
first time they had sung and talked to an audience in over a
year. They have 40 members but for our event they had chosen
one from each of the four voice ranges ( tenor, bass, lead and
baritone) to illustrate how Barbershop is made up and sounds.

It is thought that the origins of Barbershop close harmony began with African
Americans early in the 1900s. Wanting somewhere to practise they used the local
barber’s shops. Who knows if this is true? Only men sang until one of the members
wives formed a women’s group in 1945. The first ladies Barbershop chorus in
England formed in 1976. Now there are 130 groups in this country and it is very
popular. Welwyn Harmony started in 1989 and members travel to join in from all
over Hertfordshire. The movement is very well regulated and strict rules have to be
adhered to. The minimum in any one group is 12 but some can have over 100
members. There is a convention each year and many competitions throughout the
year. It can be very competitive. They showed us video extracts from some of their
performances and they were most impressive.

They sang us an assortment of songs throughout the afternoon and finally divided
us into four groups and taught us to put the sounds together to produce
Barbershop close harmonies. We were amazed at the result and thoroughly enjoyed
the experience. Margaret thanked the ladies for a glimpse into their barbershop
history and a very entertaining afternoon.

In September we are welcoming Sharon Moat who will tell us all about chalk
streams, how fragile, beautiful and necessary they are and how we can help to
preserve them. The meeting is in the URC hall and begins at 2pm on September
15th. Please do come and join us.

33

Ted’s Talk: A Literary Evening with Edward VIII
October 16th 2021 at St Mary’s, Ashwell

Following the Book Weekend, Ted Powell is coming to
Ashwell on the evening of Saturday 16th October 2021 to
speak to us about Edward VIII.
Ted is a former History Fellow of Downing College, and
since retiring as a solicitor, has become a full time writer
and lecturer. In his book, Ted charts Edward VIII’s
fascination with North America, which he visited as a young
man after the First World War. Edward’s admiration for
America with its youthful vigour and energy began long
before Wallis Simpson entered his life. A global celebrity
from his early days, Edward harboured dreams of spending
more time in North America, away from the stiff formality
of the royal court presided over by his parents.
Ted completed his book before Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were
married, and Oxford University Press brought forward the publication date
because of interest in the royal family’s second American bride. Ted could not
of course have anticipated at the time of writing how many parallels there
would be between Edward VIII and Harry - both troubled in their own ways
and looking for a different life, both drawn to America - but those parallels
are clearly there. It promises to be an insightful and interesting evening.
Tickets will be available from 1st September 2021 from www.ticketsource.com
(type “Friends of St Mary’s”) or on the door. Bar opens at 6pm.

Susan Greenbank

21st ASHWELL BOOK WEEKEND: Weekend change

ST MARY’S CHURCH, ASHWELL

Friday 8 October 3.00pm till 6.00pm
Saturday 9th October 10.00am till 5.00pm
Sunday 10th October 1.30pm till 4.30pm

We hope you have been keeping your books for the 21st Ashwell Book Weekend
Please bring all your spare books to the Church on Monday 4th October to
Thursday 7th October from 10.00am to 5.00pm. Please no dictionaries,
encyclopaedias or videos (they do not sell)
Books will no longer be accepted after 5pm on Thursday 7th October
We need sorters please beforehand from Monday 4th October to Friday 8th
October and helpers on Friday 8th October, Saturday 9th October and Sunday
10th October to assist with selling and restocking shelves. There are lists in
the Church for you to sign up or please just come along if you have an hour
or two or to spare. Or contact Karen Rogers on 01462 743338
If you are unable to bring your books between 4th and 7th October but you or
your friends have some to spare, please telephone Karen Rogers on 01462
743338 or Teresa King on 07964 287 562 so that collection can be arranged.

All money raised goes to St Mary’s Church Restoration Fund

34

School memories: Ruth Rowntree

My first school, St Gildas Convent. I was five years old. The staff were nuns,

dressed in black gowns and black and white facial wear. My recognition of

them was they were penguins …..

One day, I saw Sister St. Thomas had feet and I was amazed! I ran home and

declared the news to my mother.

My second school was in the City of London. I travelled there in a puffer train.

It had a big open fire, stoking the engine, managed by staff. There were staff

on trains, on platforms and on stations. The big open fire, stoked the engine,

moved the vehicle. The carriages were individual, with some for Ladies Only.

The Lord Mayor of London attended Prize Giving and presented prizes.

At the time, the school was in Carmelite Street. It has since moved to new

premises in The Barbican. The boys school has also moved to new premises.

The City of London is special to me, historical memories, I hope you enjoy

them. Ruth Rowntree

Book swap café

The Book Swap Café is delighted to be opening its doors again. The Café
returns on Saturday, 11 September from 10am to noon for coffee and
tea, biscuits (even cake, if you are lucky!), chat and company and, of course,
books.
We are grateful to Teresa King who has kept the Book Swap facility available
during lockdowns. During these past months we hope you have enjoyed
plenty of good reading. Perhaps you have read a book or two which you
would like to share with others - that, after all, is the idea behind having a
Book Swap facility. But don’t worry if you haven’t any books to spare – you
are still welcome to borrow some. Bring your relations, friends and
neighbours - you will be assured of a warm welcome.

And don’t forget the Book Swap is available also during Post Office hours.

From the Book Swap team

September Saints

Apart from St Mary, who gets another day to her name on the 12th
September, there are some other familiar names this month.
Gregory the Great, on the 3rd, Mother Teresa of Kolkata is celebrated on the
5th and on the 29th, when we are welcoming our new Rector Chris, it is the
festival of the Archangels Michael, Gabriel and Raphael.
Gregory was Bishop of Rome from 590 to 604AD, and he led a large mission
from Rome to convert the pagan Anglo-Saxons in Britain. Known also for his
prolific writings some people consider him to have been the last ‘good Pope’!
Mother Teresa is a much more modern saint, being canonised in 2016, after
her death in 1997. Although her work among areas of deprivation in India
attracted criticism as well as admiration, she lived a life true to her principles
and religious convictions.
In London the area known as St John’s Wood was given that name by
association with the Knights of St Johns, who owned the Manor in the late
13th Century. As you might expect with the name John, there are many St
John’s, several of them have saints days in September.

35

36

The Chronicles of Sir Bark A Lot -

The Pub

I am sooo sorry that you had to miss my adventures in last month's edition,
but I wasn't feeling well. As you might remember I had a seed removed
from my paw but it kept causing me terrible pain. Then the Missus met this
amazing herb expert lady on one of our (very short) walks who told her to
make a compress of plantain leaves as this would help, she even helped the
Missus pick them. The lady also told her she could make tea from
blackberry leaves. We thought she was lovely but unfortunately the miracle
leaves couldn't help me as it turned out I had another nasty one stuck in my
paw. But we still want to say thank you, we love meeting nice people like
that on our walks. And if anyone has a recipe for blackberry tea, please let
us know although I think the Missus would prefer one for blackberry wine.

This brings me to places where she and the OtherHalf like to drink wine in
the village: the pub. There are three pubs again, which is great, as they
take me there and then I get lots of treats to stop me from barking. The
pub is a really cool place, it is where we meet our friends or make new
friends. Sometimes it is not so cool as it is also where they scheme who will
dognap me next time they go on holiday without me.

When I was little, I loved going to the pub. Everyone wanted to cuddle me,
and I felt like a proper movie star and the mini humans in the village loved
to walk me round the garden. As I am a bit old now and grumpy, the
mini-humans are not that interested anymore. That is until recently, the
mini-humans from the Bushel always give me lots of cuddles and make me
feel fantastic. And last weekend, the Eco Triplets were there, not only did
they walk me whilst the Missus and the OtherHalf were too busy talking to
pay me any attention, they made a video of me. Like a proper video with
music and special effects. Even if I say so myself, I look stunning in it (even
though the Missus has given me another ridiculous haircut)! I feel like I am
a proper movie star now. Thank you triplets!!!

The only trouble with going to the pub is that the stripy non-dog has
decided she wants to come too. It really stresses the Missus out as we need
to cross some roads with angry machines (ed. cars). I don't understand
why, unlike me, the stripy non-dog doesn't need to go on the lead and can
go as she pleases. Sometimes the Missus walks through the church yard
which you know she loves, and hopes the stripy non-dog gets distracted by
the lovely things in there. It doesn't always work. And you would think after
having gotten in a fight with a badger, the stupid animal would have learned
her lesson. But no, the other day she followed them into the pub garden,
and then tried to chase off another dog. Honestly, I am not joking. It was a
good thing the dog was on a lead or it would have been another trip to the
needle sticking place for her. She is so annoying! Next time you see the
OtherHalf, the Missus and me walking through the village being stalked by a
stripy non-dog, don't think it is their idea of a family outing. The stripy
non-dog has a mind of her own.

That’s it for now folks,

Sir Bark A Lot.

37

38

39

40