1 Easter Special
2 Three categories with a prize of a lovely Easter Egg •Under 6 years •Under 10 years •Under 16 years Example of things to include in your shoebox or small container. Animals, plants, trees, flowers, stones, grass (could be moss or green cloth) tomb and crosses. Feel free to add other decorations. Please make sure your name and age are attached. Bring your Easter Garden to St Marys on Holy Saturday March 30th by 11 am where they will be displayed over the Easter weekend. Boxes can be designed and made by individual or group. Shoebox Easter Garden competition Every year a hardworking band of volunteers knit and finish hundreds if not thousands of woolly chicks, which are then filled with a Crème Egg, and sold to raise vital funds for the Letchworth Garden House Hospice. If you see them, do buy several for your Easter celebrations. Photos supplied by Sue Hill and Karen Mills. Easter Chicks
3 “How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing!” Matthew 23.37 Last spring, one of our chickens went broody. She puffed herself up, and spread her wings over the nest box, and squawked loudly at anyone who came near her. The year before, we’d just waited it out, but this time we decided we’d give her some fertilised eggs to sit on. Imagine our excitement when about three weeks later, some hatched – three small, fluffy chicks emerging to join our flock. It was wonder to watch Ada care for her young; how she clucked when she wanted to show them something good to eat, always allowing them to eat their fill, before she ate; how affectionately she would let them climb on her back for a ride when they were tired; and how, in the face of either danger or inclement weather, she would immediately gather her chicks under her great soft wings to protect them. Indeed, if the threat is great enough, the mother hen will use those wings as an impenetrable barrier, and will even sacrifice herself, to save her chicks. As I write, in mid-February, Lent is about to begin and it doesn’t quite feel like spring is on its way. But, because Easter is early this year, March will include both Mothering Sunday and Easter Day. A recent trip to the supermarket showed that there were already aisles filled with Easter Eggs, pastel coloured chicks, and other ‘cute’ baby animals, which can function as gifts for either of these spring festivities. But when we take a step back, we might wonder at these. Neither Mothering Sunday nor Easter have, at their heart, a ‘fluffy’ sentimentality. Parenting is hard work; and the joy of Eastertide comes from a long hard journey to and beyond the cross. Perhaps then, the image of the mother hen, is a perfect one for this month. In both Matthew and Luke’s gospels, Jesus likens himself to a Mother Hen, wanting desperately to gather the people under his wings. In the psalms too, we hear how the children of God take refuge under God’s wings. Just like Ada’s wings, the wings of God are a place for us to return to, in the face of danger, and when in need of comfort and protection and the mothering love of God, remembered at Easter, reminds us that there is nothing that God won’t do, to save us, God’s children. Chris Ashwell Village News - Letter from Chris To contact Chris Tel: 01462 742277 or email: Chris@revcc.uk Please feel free to contact us. Chris 742277 Chris@revcc.uk Julia 07817961703 Julia.J.Mitchell@outlook.com Mark, our Reader 743451 MarkWEaton@gmail.com Parish Church Office : Guy 01462 743922 Office@StMarysAshwell.org.uk Usual parish office opening times are 10-12 Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. St Marys Contacts List
4 A few words from ASHWELL UNITED REFORMED CHURCH At the very beginning of March, on Friday 1st March, the URC will be hosting Ashwell’s World Day of Prayer service in the hall. Further information about this annual event can be found elsewhere in Ashwell News but please note that this year it will be at the later time of 6.30pm. Please do come and help us pray for the Christians in Palestine who have prepared this year’s worship. Our March CAMEO will take place on Wednesday 13th from 2.30pm. These are most enjoyable get-togethers and visitors are always welcomed for a themed ‘activity’, a thought for the day and not forgetting the tea and cake. Further details elsewhere in Ashwell News. On Saturday 16th March, there will be an opportunity to enjoy a delicious Lent Lunch. Our usual nourishing soups followed by delectable puddings will be served from 12 noon until 1.30pm. Your financial contributions will be donated to a charity so please do come and give generously! During March we will be continuing our spiritual journey towards Easter. Services will be held on Sunday 10th when we will welcome the Revd Nancy Babarinde to lead our worship and I am sure we will be giving thanks for the special role of mothers through the ages. On Sunday 31st – Easter Sunday – Revd Jim Dalgleish will bring us his interpretation of the joy and wonder of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. And now some good news following the visit of Revd Stan Chatikobo in February. A special church meeting was held a week after his visit, at Trinity Church in Knebworth, where members of the United Reformed Churches at Ashwell, Walkern and Knebworth voted almost unanimously to invite Revd Stan to be our Minister. The invitation was issued to him in Harare that evening by telephone and there was no hesitation – he accepted straight away. So we look forward very much to hearing more news about his arrival in the near future. God Bless, Chris SUNDAY SERVICES AT THE URC IN MARCH SUNDAY 10th MARCH AT 10.45AM Preacher: Revd Nancy Babarinde SUNDAY 31st MARCH AT 10.45AM Preacher: Revd Jim Dalgleish Worship will include Holy Communion TO BOOK THE CHURCH HALL: PLEASE RING SAN CARSWELL 01462 742757 LENT LUNCH Saturday 16TH March 12 noon – 1.30pm 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 ashwellvillagenews@gmail.com FINAL Deadlines for articles for April’s submission are: Article Deadline 10th March Advertising Deadline 10th March Our AVN Team of volunteers are: Sarah Talks Editing Alfie Lien-Talks Layout Mark Eaton Finance Julia Mitchell Advertising Ian Chandler Useful Numbers Richard Young Distribution For April’s copy, articles must be in by the 10th March. Did you know that the Ashwell Village News is available online? ( eAVN ) https://tinyurl.com/ Ashwell-Village-News
5 C.A.M.E.O.: Come And Meet Each Other CAMEO is a social gathering for people of all ages. The main object is simply to enjoy time together over tea and cakes and conversation. Here is the plan for our March meeting: 2.30 arrive any time after 2.30; you will be made welcome 2.45 Listen to a speaker from GARDEN HOUSE HOSPICE and hear about their work. 3.30 a brief Thought for the Day 3.35 tea, cakes and conversations 4.30 time for home (but do leave earlier, if you need to) Where? Ashwell URC Hall, High Street, SG7 5NL When? 2.30pm Wednesday 13th March Who? All welcome; just turn up (or) Contact? Chris James; 742684 chrisjames56@btinternet.com Not able to make it? Then the next CAMEO will be 10th April. Benefice Services 3 March 9.15am Family Service, St Nicholas’, Hinxworth 3 rd Sunday in Lent 10.45am Thank God it’s Sunday Service, St Mary’s, Ashwell 5:00pm Holy Communion, St Mary’s, Ashwell 10 March 9.15am Mothering Sunday All Age Communion, St Nicholas’, Hinxworth 4 th Sunday in Lent/ Mothering Sunday 10.45am Mothering Sunday All Age Communion, St Mary’s, Ashwell 5.00pm Evening Prayer, St Mary’s, Ashwell 17 March 9.15am Holy Communion, St Nicholas’, Hinxworth 5 th Sunday in Lent 10.45am Parish Communion, St Mary’s, Ashwell 5.00pm Sacred Space, St Mary’s, Ashwell 24 March 9.15am Holy Communion, St Nicholas’, Hinxworth Palm Sunday 10.45am Palm Sunday Communion with Passion Play, St Mary’s, Ashwell 5.00pm Evensong, St Mary’s, Ashwell Holy Week Monday – Wednesday 10am Holy communion 9pm Sung Compline Maundy Thursday 6pm Simple Meal, followed by: 7:30pm Eucharist for Maundy Thursday Good Friday 10:00am Walk of Witness (with URC) 1:00pm Reflective Service, St Nicholas’, Hinxworth 2:00pm The Last Hour, St Mary’s, Ashwell Holy Saturday 10:30am Easter Egg Hunt and Story, St Mary’s, Ashwell 31 March 6:30am Dawn Communion, St Mary’s, Ashwell Easter Day 9.15am Easter Day Communion, St Nicholas’, Hinxworth 9:30am Easter Day Communion, St Vincent’s, Newnham 10.45am All Age Communion, St Mary’s, Ashwell
6 ASHWELL’S FAMOUS FLEA MARKET St Mary’s Church Saturday 9th March 2024 from 9.30-1.00 pm “All sorts of weird and wonderful items for sale” FREE ENTRY Tea and Coffee will be available We would be grateful for volunteers to help on Thursday 7th Friday 8th & Saturday 9th March For further information please contact Karen Rogers on 743338, or the Parish Office on 743922 Proceeds go to St Mary’s Church Please bring donations to St Mary Church on Thursday 7th and Friday 8th March NO ELECTRICAL GOODS, BOOKS OR CLOTHES PLEASE
7 As a change to our planned meeting, last month we were delighted to welcome Amanda Roberts from Garden House Hospice who gave a most inspiring talk on ‘Living with Frailty’. This is a new initiative, only begun this January to try and find a way to support those older people with several health conditions, who often end up in A&E followed by maybe a short spell in hospital on several occasions. Amanda emphasised that hospital is absolutely the right place to be if you’re really poorly but sometimes ongoing health problems could be managed with short spells in the Hospice and they are finding ways to make this happen. Amanda was also keen to dispel any myths that the word ‘Hospice’ might imply. Rather than being somewhere you go to die, at Garden House they ‘believe in living well to the end of your days’. To this end, the Hospice offer a variety of exercise classes and other services to support patients and their families. We are hoping to continue to liaise with Amanda regarding the hospice’s ‘compassionate neighbour’ scheme, whereby volunteers offer to visit someone who needs some company for one hour a week. We all know how debilitating loneliness can be and it would be of huge benefit if we could extend this scheme into our village. Our meeting this month is on the 14th March at 10.30 in the PCR as always. Our speaker is Jim Dalgleish, a retired Methodist minister who some of you will know for the support he gives to the URC church. Jim has entitled his talk ‘Missiles to Ministry’ and I can promise you a very interesting and enlightening morning! Do come along and join us. Matters • Hunt’s Close 14 house application. This proposed development off Ashwell Street (aka the Ruddery) was narrowly refused by North Herts Planning Committee in its January meeting. Key factors against the development were the visual harm to the Conservation Area and the urbanising impact on the Ruddery which forms part of the Icknield Way. • Bygrave Solar Farm. This application has returned to North Herts for further consultation prior to a decision. The Parish Council saw no reason to change the previous arguments used in objecting to the proposed development, and will respond accordingly to NHC. Parish Meeting – Wednesday 20 March @ 7pm - Ashwell Primary School Hall - Outline Agenda - Pavilion renovation / replacement Zero Carbon Ashwell initiative Launch of Ashwell Community Land Trust Community ‘Drive Safe’ (speed monitoring) volunteer scheme Police Neighbourhood Watch scheme Parish Budget 2024/5 All Parishioners are warmly invited to attend and participate Next Parish Council Meeting – 7PM Wednesday 6th March 2024 Chairman: Graham Lee (742834) Office at Bear Farm, 6A Back Street (743706) Clerk: Jane Porter, clerk@ashwell.gov.uk Jottings: Parish Council www.ashwell.gov.uk News items from the Parish Council. Below are the main points from the Parish News items from the Parish Council. The main points from the Parish Council meetings held in January and February 2024 are included below:
8 If you like jazz or think you might like jazz you would be most welcome to join us at the URC hall on the second Thursday of each month at 7.30pm. Our new home has been there since September of last year and it has proved to be a wonderful venue. Each month one of our members prepares and presents a programme on a jazz theme of their choice. This month we had a fascinating and exhilarating programme from Paul Pover entitled “ Acid Jazz”. The programme celebrated the significance of jazz in getting people onto the dance floor, and we were enthralled to hear tracks from the late 1950s to the 1990s. Forthcoming programmes include titles such as “ God is in the house”, “ Big bands and the swing era” and “Gramophone to smart phone”. We listen to all kinds of jazz music; everyone will find something they like. Our meetings are very friendly, welcoming and convivial. Please do think about joining us. Membership is £30 a year and there is a monthly meeting charge of £2.00, everyone brings their own refreshments. If you would like any further information please do not hesitate to contact Clive Godfrey ( 01462 742383) Tony Coe ( 07745877013) Melanie Dawson-Dew ( 07749 875124) Ashwell Jazz Club:- SECOND THURSDAY OF THE MONTH at 7.30pm in the URC HALL. Prophet Song" by Paul Lynch won the Booker Prize in 2023 for its stark portrayal of a near-future Ireland on the brink of totalitarianism and civil war. It is a bleak and intense read. There are no paragraphs and long sentences that weave speech with description. The effect is to create a gripping and unsettling narrative that builds in intensity as the story continues. Through the lens of a Dublin family, Lynch masterfully weaves a tale of survival and resilience against a backdrop of political upheaval and societal decay. The novel's setting, while contemporary, serves as a potent warning against the rise of neo-fascism and the dangers of populist politics, making it a timely and profound exploration of the human condition in times of crisis. Central to the story is the struggle of an ordinary woman to protect her family amidst chaos, reflecting on the broader theme of how history silently records the struggles of those caught in the tides of change. "Prophet Song" is not merely a book; it's a powerful reflection on the world's current political climate, wrapped in a deeply human story of survival and resistance. Martin Talks Next book for the Ashwell Village News Book Club: Birnam Wood by Eleanor Catton. If you would like to submit a review, please send it in by 14th April. Prophet Song: By Paul Lynch
9 The Chronicles of Sir Bark A Lot– Under the weather Last month, I left you all with the horrible image of me looking a mess with my Frankenstein eye and bald patches all over. Well, I no longer have a Frankenstein eye, or a left eye for that matter. Don't worry, I feel so much better now it is gone. Although, I think the Missus would prefer me to wear a permanent Captain Hook eye patch, but that would be silly, I am a dog! I am confident that I will look dandy again when my fringe grows back. The lady from the magazine had a sneak preview of my picture, and she must agree as she said I looked quite raffish. The Missus who is always keen to point out how good her English is, had to look up this word! Apparently, it means: " unconventional and slightly disreputable, especially in an attractive way". I quite like that. The good news is that the drugs seem to work. I feel better and can do longer walks again. I need less medicine, which is good as the Missus keeps disappearing with her little trolley and the OtherHalf doesn't like being Master Medicine Administer. The Missus is so pleased with me feeling better that she has organised a trip to see my two favourite ladies next weekend and has even booked a trip for us to my favourite place in the Peak District. We stay in this cabin on a farm with all sorts of non-dogs and I get lots of walkies. As some of you might remember, these walkies are not always without danger. The Missus and the OtherHalf are notorious for getting lost or getting themselves in a pickle. Rest assured though; I don't think that will be the case this time. The Missus has found a website that has pram-friendly walkies, so easy for me to walk and no risk of the OtherHalf getting stuck because of his vertigo. I also met a lovely needle-sticking lady and her handsome son who live in the village. This lady didn't stick needles in me, she came to see me to offer any help if we need it and I think she might also have offered to look after me if they want to go on another holiday. You must love a village, don't you. However, as lovely as she is, I am not sure I agree with a holiday without me. I thought we were going on a road trip together to "the France". I have never been on a road trip but think I would like that very much. I love swimming and they must have lovely swimming pools in "the France". It is my birthday next week and I will suggest a road trip for my birthday, you know like for my bucket list. My mate Winston's humans had a bucket list for him. I have not mentioned him before as I might have been a bit jealous, him being like the perfect dog and me not so much. He never barked in the pub, he liked all other dogs and was always a gentleman-dog. Again, me not so much. But my lovely friend is no longer with us. When the Missus found out, she gave me a huge cuddle and said to the OtherHalf: "These lovely creatures give you so much friendship and love and want so little back (ok, maybe that doesn't apply to me), but when they go, they break your heart. And the sad thing is we know they will, the good thing is we love them anyway, despite the heartache we know one day will come." My dear friend Winston, thank you for being such a kind dog, you are sorely missed. It sounds like I still have a bit longer before my day comes, and I'll never be a gentleman-dog like you, but I will try a bit harder. That’s it for now folks, Sir Bark A Lot / Captain Hook
10 Friends of Ashwell Village Museum We had a wonderful afternoon on Thursday 25th January with truly memorable talks by Margie Wallace, Christine Pickett, Tony Francis and Fred Bryant with Cliff Jenkinson masterminding the proceedings Our supportive audience all reported that they enjoyed that afternoon ending with Tea and Cake and chatty conversations in the URC Hall . Thank you to everyone who helped make it all such a success and we trust that Peter’s recording of the Event will give us a good record which can then be shared. Our next Event is our AGM in the URC Hall at 7.30pm on Monday 11th March. Christine James Warden of our local Nature Reserve will be our speaker ‘ 45 Years in a Chalk Pit’ I am sure this will be her fascinating experiences and efforts in managing the Quarry over the years . Please do join us. Admission is free and it is an opportunity to see and hear how we are all doing to support the Museum Moving on to our next Coach trip on Wednesday 22nd May is encouraging as we have had a lot of interest and bookings so do please contact us if you want to come. Karen Mills 742155, Monica Boggust 742673 and Hilary Masham 742416. We will be visiting Knole a National Trust Property near Sevenoaks Kent and on 22nd May the private gardens are open so hence the need to book if we want to see those. We will leave Ashwell at 9 am and Knole 4-4.30pm. While there we can visit the Mansion and Parklands and the Trust’s Conservation Studios which are open to the Public. The visit to the Private Gardens is now booked for 11.30 am. The cost of the day is £50 for Non National Trust members and that includes the £5 for the Private Gardens. For National Trust Members the cost is £35 and £30 if you don t want to visit the Gardens so you only pay for the coach. Please advise what you want so we can ensure a place on the coach. Other Events are in the pipeline so we will endeavour to keep you up to date through Ashwell News, Posters or Friends or Volunteer emails which go out from time to time. We try to keep our website up to date too and of course please ask any of us for info if easier. All Best Wishes and Thanks for the Support Karen, Monica and Hilary ASHWELL AND BASSINGBOURN PATIENTS GROUP THE “PHARMACY FIRST” SCHEME The NHS recently launched its PHARMACY FIRST scheme which enables pharmacists to carry out consultations and issue antibiotics where appropriate. The aim is to make it easier and quicker for people with certain conditions to get the help they need rather than having to go to their GP. This should relieve pressure on surgeries who should have more time for patients with other symptoms. Under this scheme pharmacists can now supply medicines for: Patients can access this new service by walking straight into a chemist's. If one of the above conditions is diagnosed, pharmacists can give medicines to patients without sending them to a GP. Patients requiring more specialist or follow-up care will be referred onwards. Our local Pharmacies in Ashwell and Bassingbourn are participating in this scheme and are looking forward to offering their services to patients in our area. • sore throat • earache • sinusitis • impetigo • shingles • infected insect bites • uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women
11 Herbs of Ashwell: All about Cleavers (Galium aparine) I had the pleasure of meeting the lovely folk at the Ashwell Horticultural Society a couple of weeks ago, where I gave a talk about herbal medicine. It was great to see so many people already using plants medicinally but no surprise, as plant medicine is the oldest form of healthcare known to humankind! We have evolved with our herb friends, and often instinctively know what our body needs to be healthy and well. We discussed making a Spring vinegar, the ingredients for which are popping their heads above ground right now. Cleavers, also known as bedstraw, goosegrass and stickyback (because throwing handfuls of this long sticky plant on the back of unsuspecting friends is probably its most popular use) — has a “lymphatic” action, which stimulates lymph flow in the body. Our lymph transports waste from cells to be processed and excreted. At this time of year it’s common to spring clean our home; with Cleavers, we can help our body do the same. And because Cleavers also has anti-inflammatory properties, it’s especially helpful for swollen glands, like tonsillitis. Cleavers grows in damp, shady places and, although a tall plant, needs the support of others to stay upright. It’s often found with Stinging Nettle, which makes a great addition to your Spring vinegar, being packed with iron and other minerals. It’s best to harvest Cleavers while the plant is young and full of energy, and before it flowers. Cleavers is part of the coffee (Rubiaceae) family and its seeds contain caffeine. If you have the patience, you can harvest, roast and grind the seeds to make Cleavers coffee. On an emotional level, Cleavers can help if you're feeling stuck and need to let go of attachments — to put the spring back in your step. Simple Spring vinegar recipe • Fill a clean jar about 2 / 3 full with Cleavers and Nettle tops. • You can also add Dandelion leaves, Purple Dead Nettle and Chickweed • Cover with apple cider vinegar and replace lid • Store in a cool, dark place, shaking every couple of days, for 2 weeks then strain. You can use this nutritious and energising vinegar in salad dressings or add a tablespoon to water with a squeeze of half a lemon for your morning drink. By Katie Shellard, Sensory Herbalist and Massage Therapist www.fernwoodremedies.com
12 The Accies have been grateful recipients of several sets of away kits to fit teams from U6s through to U16s! We're proud of our red and white stripes but with so many opposition teams sporting the same strip - Morden Magpies, Bury Rangers etc - we really needed an alternative so we could avoid wearing the dreaded bibs! The blue and white striped away kits have already proved to be useful at away matches for the U11s (pictured) and even training sessions, mixed U10s and U9s Saturday fun session pictured. Our mixed teams play in the Royston Crow and Chiltern Junior Sevens meaning our away kit will pop up on pitches as far afield as Luton, Harpenden, Bishops Stortford and Melbourne. Our U13 Girls team was the first to don the Away Kit in a competitive match - details below.... Report from the Girls Team There is a proud history of girls representing Ashwell Academicals, but a new chapter in that story started in the 2021/22 season with the establishment of the first ever Accies girls team building on the strong interest in the u10s age-group mixed team. Now playing at under-13 level, we have a squad of 17 talented and committed girls (aged between 11-13), almost all with strong connections to the village (either living in Ashwell or having attended the school) – though we are also proud to welcome girls from further afield. The rise of women’s football and especially the success of the fabulous England Lionesses has definitely been an inspiration for the girls, but they have created their own story. That story started with three 6- year-old girls determined to show the boys they could play and has blossomed as more and more of their friends joined first the mixed Accies teams and now the girls’ squad. As with any great sporting teams, there have been ups and downs. But the latter fade fast in the memory, whilst those who saw the girls win an against-the-odds epic semi-final on penalties to reach their first ever cup final last season will be telling the tale for years to come! The Accies u13 girls play in the Hertfordshire Girls Football Partnership League. We play against teams from across the county, travelling as far away as Watford, Borehamwood, Bedmond (Abbots Langley) and Bovingdon (Hemel Hempstead), hosting our home games at Small Gains. The teams’ ethos is all about fun, friendship and improving week by week (as a team and as players). As with all youth sport, the opportunity to play in a team is incredibly beneficial and rewarding for all involved. Youth sports clubs like the Accies wouldn’t be possible without the time and effort dedicated by parents and volunteers, or the funding from our sponsors – Ensum Brown and The Ashwell Show in our case. If you know a child who would like to try football, the Accies run teams at every age group up to u14s and also an u16s team – all are welcome. Equally, if you are interested in volunteering as a coach or to support the committee, or if you are able to support the club in any other way (we are desperate for more pitches for example!) please get in touch via the club’s website: https://ashwellacademicals.com/. U13 GIRLS MATCH REPORT (FIRST MATCH IN OUR NEW AWAY KIT!) 27-JAN-2024—Welwyn Azures 3: Ashwell Academicals 2 I guess cliches are cliches for a reason, and this was truly a game of 2 halves. We knew this Welwyn team would be tough opposition, having only lost one game all season. But the girls went out with real determination and executed perfectly on the plan we discussed before kick-off, tackling like demons, pressing and harassing the oppo, ensuring they didn’t have time to settle. We were also passing fluently and attacking with pace, and definitely looked the better team. But we have an Achilles heel and sure enough it was a goal kick that proved our undoing, we couldn’t quite get the ball clear and went a goal behind. The setback didn’t seem to affect us though, and we continued to press forward. Our first goal was well worth waiting for: Ems’ throw in found Amelie 30 yards out on the left. Turning smartly, she struck an unsaveable worldie into the top corner. An absolute screamer! We were now bossing possession and creating some great chances, though Indie in goal had to be on her toes as Welwyn continued to create occasional chances of their own. But our passing was starting to tell. A lovely move ended with Amelia stroking a nice square pass to Laura, who struck a low firm shot from all Accies: ASHWELL SHOW SPONSORSHIP
13 of 40 yards past the unsighted keeper into the bottom corner. 2-1 at half time, fully deserved. But we were playing uphill and into the wind in the second half and we knew Welwyn had power and quality. The challenge became even tougher as, despite an heroic attempt from Indie, we conceded within a couple of minutes of the restart. The next 20 minutes was one way traffic, but we defended resolutely, and Indie was in inspired form, pulling off a series of great saves. Unfortunately, the relentless pressure finally told, and Welwyn scored a well worked third goal. As so often with the Accies, adversity triggered a fightback and suddenly we were first to the ball again, pushing forward with real purpose. Sadly, we couldn’t create the killer chance we needed. So, it ended as a narrow 3-2 loss but nonetheless a performance to be proud of. All the girls deserve a shout out today. Laura - a fantastic exhibition of composed classy defendingespecially in the first half Georgia - a captain’s performance, snuffing out danger at the back and battling in midfield Megan - rock solid at right back, she also played some lovely first time passes Isla put in a real shift for the team on the right, pressing her opponents Amelia - her most impressive performance in an Accies shirt, really composed at left back, playing smart forward passes Freyja - terrifying the oppo defenders with her pace, she made some great runs on the wings and also a nice cameo upfront Emily - had a great contest with her opponent, probably Welwyn’s best player, and didn’t give an inch whilst always looking for the killer forward ball Amelie - bossed the midfield, especially in the first half and peppered the Welwyn goal Chloe set the tone for the team with her tireless pressing and great hold up play But 2 special mentions for 2 players who were asked to fill some very big boots (with Maya and Charlotte not available today). Lottie played superbly in the holding midfield role, making a complete nuisance of herself, disrupting the oppo’s attacks and then surging forward to initiate our attacks. A very close call, but the Captain’s armband goes to Indie - she showed what a team player she is by filling in in goal and then produced a sensational performance, keeping us in the game with some super reaction saves.
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15 We recently got confirmed towards the end of last year. At first, we started attending weekly sessions with the vicar to see if we would enjoy it and want to carry on. We really enjoyed it and decided to carry on. We learnt about the bible, prayer and what certain religious words mean and how we can be good Christians. After completing all our sessions in November, we enjoyed the confirmation ceremony in St Peter’s church in Buntingford, where we were confirmed by Bishop Jane. Following that, in December, we were able to be acolytes for the midnight mass service at Ashwell and received our first communion. Thomas and Laura Mahony The last few months of 2023 were very special for me. I was baptised at St Mary’s in Ashwell and confirmed by Bishop Jane in Buntingford. Before these big events I attended confirmation classes with Chris and a few others which I really enjoyed; I learnt so much about my faith. I’d really recommend more children and young people to come to church on a Sunday morning. It can be cold in there but it is always welcoming for all. Daisy Moss
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17 World Day of Prayer for Palestine "I Beg You… Bear With One Another in Love” - Ephesians 4:1-3 The World Day of Prayer is a global ecumenical movement led by Christian women who welcome you to join in prayer and action for peace and justice. Each year, women from a different country put together the service, stories and songs, and this year it is particularly poignant, as the material has been written by an ecumenical group of Palestinian Christian women. We encourage everyone who would like (women and men!), to join us in the URC Hall, High Street, Ashwell on Friday 1st March at 6.30 pm for this World Day of Prayer for Palestine. Middle Eastern refreshments will be served before the service. For further information please contact Margaret Gilliam aandmgilliam@btopenworld.com 01462 742040
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19 Makers at the Museum: The Making of the Great Fire of Ashwell. One February night, in 1850, a terrible fire took hold in a straw filled barn in the West End of Ashwell. It was a Saturday, market day, and although the fire started quite late at night, people were still up and about, so the alarm spread quickly, and no one was killed by the fire. It was a windy night, and the wind fanned the flames and spread the burning embers from thatched roof to thatched roof. In the end, the fire was contained to Back Street, Silver Street and only partially affected some of the High Street. Many cottages and farm buildings were burned to the ground, however. Six large farms were burnt, two hundred people were made homeless, the nonconformist chapel (the URC) and the Quaker meeting house were very badly damaged. Navvies working on the railway at Slip End came down the hill to help bucket water from the Springs and the fire could be seen as far away as Luton. The horse drawn fire engines from Royston, and Hitchin were called but they took hours to arrive. Afterwards there were articles in the London and local press and a fundraising mission began. Illustrated books on the fire were sold to raise money. It is hard to imagine how two hundred people were housed temporarily but families took in their relatives and the vicar offered to house the chapel minister who had lost his house and all his belongings. In the Museum collection we have a number of interesting items. Burned grain and seeds were collected from the storage barns. A charred egg cup and a warped flat iron give an idea of the ferocity of the flames. We also have a Fireman’s branch, part of the hose pump mechanism for directing water to a fire. After a very interesting talk and discussion, the Makers had refreshments and some took the chance to draw with charcoal, or to make a replica fire insurance plaque. Next meeting: March 12th, will be on dressmaking and the Ashwell Tailors. 2.30pm in the Museum, all very welcome. Do bring your homemade clothes to show!
20 100 years ago: 1924 March Mrs Fanny Bailey died on the 25th February 1924 at Westcliffe, which was originally confusingly reported as Cliff House, but by the middle of March her executors had sent out instructions to sell the household furniture and effects. Westcliffe, which is now demolished was the house that became Cookes Engineering works at the top of Bear Lane. It was built by her husband for their retirement. Mrs Bailey was buried in the family grave in the Congregational (now URC) churchyard. There were more details of Miss Martha Huffer. She died on the same day as Mrs Bailey but her funeral took place in the Wesleyan Church, formerly on the High Street. Her death was first recorded as in Back Street but it now appears she was living at Bank Cottage in the road that is now called Silver Street. There was an announcement of the death of Isabelle Albone, 82, a former resident of Ashwell in Canning Town on 19th March. At football Ashwell played a friendly against Henlow RAF, the airbase must have been very new then, but lost 1-0. Away at Weston they also lost 4-1. The Village Hall was again very busy. After a year in operation a meeting was held to review all those who had appeared there. During this month the Men’s Club held one of their regular Whist Drives. The Letchworth Citizen’s Company entertained with ‘The Taming of the Shrew’. At the W.I. meeting there was a presentation to Miss Hyslop to thank her for 4½ years as Hon. Secretary. The lecturer booked had to cancel because of illness so Mrs W A Bray stepped in to give a demonstration of toffee-making.
21 (songs about new life and rebirth) The next folk session is 4th March at 8:30 in The Rose & Crown. All welcome. Now the sun is half up and it signals the hour That the children arrive with their garlands of flowers So now let the music and the dancing begin And touch the good heart of young Jack in the Green (“Jack In The Green” Martine Graebe) The mythical Green Man seems to have been very widespread across England if the names of at least 127 pubs scattered across the country are anything to go by. By the 16th century, the term Green Man signified a man covered in leaves, who was part of a parade, pageant, or other ritual enactment. Often the Green Man was a “whiffler,” employed to clear crowds out of a space so that a play could be performed or a parade or procession could pass. To aid in this task, he often carried a club and sometimes fireworks. The first clear reference comes from 1578, where “two men, apparrelled, lyke greene men at the Mayors feast, with clubbes of fyre worke” were described, their job being to “keepe a passadge cleare, that the King and his trayne, may passe with ease”. This suggests that these were not a new phenomenon but well established, as people obviously understood what Green Men looked like. The early literature associates Green Men with foresters, often as their servants, but also, in particular, with “the wild men of the woods” who wore skins and carried clubs as described by Strutt in 1876. This is reminiscent of the Ancient Order of Foresters (now a Friendly Society), who also carried ceremonial clubs in their parades. Ashwell Museum has a pair of ceremonial clubs and sashes once belonging to the Ashwell branch and they were prominent in Ashwell in the past. Their original initiation ceremony involved a ritual duel with clubs, hence the ones carried in their parades. The modern “pagan” interpretation of “The Green Man”, however, owes a great deal to Lady Raglan who, in 1931, applied the existing term “Green Man” to the leaf-covered faces carved in the masonry of many churches (often as roof bosses). A lot of the “legendary” aspects including the identification with various “celtic gods” like Cernunnos (the horned god) owe their existence to Lady Raglan and subsequent authors, who appear to have gone over the top with speculation and arbitrary links to mythical characters. Further research has been unable to uncover a link between these carvings and the historical Green Man of calendar customs and mayoral parades so, although the jury is still out, it somehow seems unlikely that there is. If you’d like to know more about the folk session and our music, please get in touch. Ian Chandler ian.v.chandler@gmail.com 743091 Rose and Crown Folk: The Green Man
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23 Ashwell Horticultural Society “The Floral Chronicles of the Pearl of the Indian Ocean—An insight into Sri Lanka’s history, landscape, wildlife and botanical wonders” On Thursday 7 March at 8.00 pm in the URC Hall, High Street, Ashwell Tracy Young will speak about her recent journeys in Sri Lanka All welcome Margaret Gilliam For more information about Ashwell Horticultural Society please visit our website: https://ashwellhortics.chessck.co.uk
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25 Friday, May 10th 8pm St. Mary’s, Ashwell James returns to Ashwell to celebrate the history of jazz piano, from its early roots in Ragtime and Stride through the Swing era, Boogie Woogie, Mainstream and even Modern. Performing the music of Jazz legends such as Jelly Roll Morton, Count Basie, Oscar Peterson, Erroll Garner and Bill Evans. The evening will include anecdotes about the lives of the musicians and their differing styles of playing and also will include a new trio arrangement of 'Rhapsody in Blue' which celebrates its centenary this year. James is currently the creative director at Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club in London. This promises to be a very special concert, which if current ticket sales indicate, will definitely be a sell-out! Don’t miss out, get your tickets now from www.ashwellmusicfestival.org.uk or from Rhubarb & Mustard in Ashwell. ASHWELL MUSIC FESTIVAL PRESENTS… JAMES PEARSON & FRIENDS 125 YEARS OF JAZZ PIANO The new council tax bills will be coming out soon. Council tax is a priority bill so it’s important to keep in contact with your council if you can’t keep up payments. If you're the only adult in your home, you’ll get a 25% discount on your council tax bill. When working out how many people live in a property, some people aren’t counted - they’re called ‘disregarded people’ and include under 18s, a student nurse or someone on an apprenticeship scheme and many more. If everyone who lives in the property is disregarded, you will still receive a council tax bill, but it will have a 50% discount. However, if everyone in your home is a student or severely mentally impaired, you won't pay any council tax. Additionally, if someone has moved out, tell the council. If you are entitled to a discount as a result, it will be valid from the date when the person moved out, even if you told the council after the event, and the reduction may be backdated. If you are on a low income, you might be able to get your council tax reduced. If you get benefits or have other people living with you, this might affect how much your council tax is reduced by. Your local council will ask you details about your income and your circumstances, so they can work out if you’re entitled to a council tax reduction. They will then calculate your new bill and tell you how much council tax you need to pay. If you have other people living with you who are aged 18 or over, you might all be responsible for paying council tax. Only one of you needs to apply for a council tax reduction. The council will make a decision and reduce the amount of council tax you have to pay accordingly. You may also be eligible for additional support if you’ve reached State Pension age. If you’re under State Pension age, the ‘working age rules’ apply and if you've reached State Pension age, it depends if you or your partner get certain benefits. Councils can sometimes offer ‘discretionary reduction’. They’ll normally only do this if you can show that you’re suffering severe hardship and can’t afford to pay council tax. If you’re in this situation you should ask for help. Call the Herts Citizens Advice Helpline on 0800 144 88 48 Opening hours are 10 am to 9 pm Monday to Wednesday, 10 am to 8 pm Thursday and Friday, and 10 am to 4 pm on Saturday.
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27 Collective nouns for professions. I have found some quite amusing ones Next month groups of sports, leisure and other groupings Wordsmith: Collective nouns Audit of Accountants. Corps of Anatomists. Balance of bookkeepers Clutch of Car mechanics. Galaxy of Cosmologists. Brace of Dentists Grid of Electricians. Scoop of Journalists. Stack of Librarians No. of Mathematicians. Compromise of mediators. Babble of Linguists Shower of meteorologists. Expectation of midwives. Body of Pathologists Ponder of Philosophers. Nucleus of Physicists. Portfolio of Stockbrokers Bench of Judges. Complex of Psychologists Faculty of Professors Clique of photographers. Slouch of models Dear Readers It has been a busy month of meetings for me, getting business done at the council and in the parishes of Arbury ward. There was an absurdly long session of the full council which ended after midnight, and more respectably timed parish council meetings in Ashwell, Hinxworth and Bygrave. The waste project board met for an update on the progress of the new ‘bin’ contract. The final tenders will be coming in now and the bidders have responded positively to the need to counter the effects of recent rampant inflation on the contract price by identifying a range of potential efficiencies for consideration. The Planning Committee debated the Hunts Close application for fourteen houses and upheld the officer’s recommendation to refuse permission on the grounds of harm to the Conservation Area and the urbanising effect on the Ruddery. I spoke on behalf of the parish council against the application, along with Ashwell’s Cllr. Mahy. The vote went narrowly our way. You can watch the proceedings on the NHC YouTube channel. I chaired the Baldock Area Forum, which heard the latest updates from Urban and Civic, the company hired by Hertfordshire County Council to conduct the master planning of the expansion of Baldock. I relayed concerns about the poor access to Baldock station in their ‘preferred options’ proposal, and there was also discussion about the siting of the new secondary school. The highlight of the past month, though, was the event to commemorate Holocaust Memorial Day. This was a hybrid meeting held in the council chamber, so you can catch up with it on YouTube if you wish. As always, it was a very moving occasion. The theme was ‘Fragility of Freedom’ and we heard from guest speakers including Anna, who joined us online from her hometown of Irpin in Ukraine, and Shakira, who arrived in the UK from Afghanistan in 2021. Both women spoke powerfully about their experiences of oppression and peril and of their hopes for the future. Now we begin to look forward to Easter and the first signs of spring; it’s a time of optimism and the anticipation of brighter days ahead. My father came from a long line of nurserymen and I will as usual follow my hereditary urge to sow and grow. I can’t wait to be out in the garden again soon, enjoying the sense of liberty that fine weather brings, but at the same time my thoughts will be with Anna and Shakira, and others whose fragile freedom has been snatched from them. District Councillor Tom Tyson tom.tyson@north-herts.gov.uk 07547 589377 Tom Tyson
28 Recently, Sally Fletcher, a well-known Ashwell resident , came to tell us about her life working for the British Museum. Apart from a brief spell during Covid, Sally has worked for the British Museum since she finished her PhD. She is now Lead Curator, Research Collection. Archaeology has always been her passion and she spent many years excavating a huge site in Turkey, that was found as part of archaeological surveys done because hydroelectric dams were being built nearby. The weather there is usually sunny and in summer, very hot. The finds went back to 8000 years ago. The most exciting finds are usually quite small. Natural or native silver beads were found, which had been fashioned by hand before metal work, as we know it, had started. Sally also worked on a site which had evidence that pottery was made 2000 years earlier than previously thought – 10,000 years ago. She has worked in Oman, excavating a Medieval fort. Sally said that the biggest crime in archaeology is to not record everything that is found, so with the digs in Turkey there were many thousands of objects to write about as well as everything else that had been excavated. This is very time consuming but very necessary. Sally also researches the collections held in the British Museum, Jericho. On the last day of the Jericho dig in 1953 some beautiful skulls were unearthed that dated back to 7500BC. One is now in the British Museum and the others are held in museums all over the worlds. The skulls had been bound tightly to give them a slightly elongated appearance, which was considered attractive. This practice was still being carried out in the last century in a few places. Sally said that the brain would not have been affected at all and that wearing glasses or a headband most of the time causes slight indents in skulls today. These skulls had been filled with earth and plastered, with shell pieces in the eye sockets. Experts re-constructed a model of one of the skulls, adding muscles and skin layers to recreate the face of the person from all those years ago. Sally has also worked on travelling exhibitions that have gone all over the world. Sally is now based at a new storage facility for the British Museum in Reading and is really enjoying her work there. The British Museum looks after over eight million objects in many storage buildings in the country, but none were purpose built, so in Reading a huge building has been specially constructed with, no awkward steps, lifts, designated storage spaces, climate control and everything that artifacts need to stay safe and accessible. The building will not be open until December but then people will be able to book to see and research items and groups and secondary schools will be able to have lectures and look around. Many people had questions for Sally, and she assured us that Senuna is still going to remain in The British Museum, London. On February 21st Ursula Byrne, another Ashwell resident, will give us a talk entitled ’The reluctant headteacher’, which promises to be educational and amusing. Please do come and join us, everyone is welcome, at 2pm in the URC hall.
29 Ashwell at Home, the village open day, raises much needed funds for the Museum, the School, the Pre-school and St Mary’s Church. Last year we raised £12,000. The event is most successful when large numbers of Ashwell people are committed and involved and so we are hoping you will be able to help in some way. Those who are involved always say they have really enjoyed the day. The great day this year will be Sunday 12th May, when our theme will be Hidden Ashwell. There will be open gardens (large, small and tiny), plenty of music and dance, displays and exhibitions, talks and walks, children’s activities including trails, art and craft workshops, culminating in a short concert by Ashwell’s Big Sing at the Church at the end of the afternoon. Refreshments will be served at the School, the Parish Room and the URC Hall, and, we hope, the Village Hall and on the Rec. Providing food and drink on this scale is very labour intensive, so do let us know if you are willing to supply or serve food. You will be able to view the whole programme as it gradually emerges on our website between now and May: www.ashwellathome.org.uk Visitors always tell us they especially enjoy looking round gardens so please consider opening yours this year. It doesn’t have to be big or imposing: a range of different types of gardens makes the day all the more interesting. Alternatively, you could display a plaque outside your house giving any fascinating details about the property, such as its history or the people who have lived there. The Museum is happy to help you with the research and may be able to supply old photos from its archive. If you have had a plaque in the past but it is lost or damaged let us know. We have archive copies of them all and we can supply a new one. If you have a business which you would like to promote by advertising in our programme, please contact Mandy Ferguson: mandylou913@gmail.com Help is also needed in the weeks and days leading up to the event, putting up posters and road signs, distributing leaflets and keeping our social media up to date. On the day itself your help would be greatly valued if you could volunteer an hour or so to staff the car park. If so, please contact Merry Pertwee: merryasmith@yahoo.co.uk Or would you be able to “garden sit” for an hour or so to help people who are opening their garden? If you are not able to help then do enjoy the day by buying a wristband (adults £10 on the day, £9 in advance from village shops or online; accompanied children free) which will give you access to everything. At the heart of the whole event is the willingness of Ashwellians to get involved in a day which brings the whole community together in a joint enterprise. The feeling of well-being which that brings to us all is just as important as any funds which are raised. For more information, or to help in any of the above ways, please contact Cliff Jenkinson, 742592 or cliffjenkinson47@live.co.uk.
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31 Crossword by Falaise Clues Across 1. Male in charge but he’s OTT. (5) 4. Change the amp around and let’s celebrate! (9) 10. Fifty-one megabytes and you’re out on one. (4) 11. Open change: capital! (10) 12. Retro right, part of revolution perhaps. (6) 13. Tear apse and pull it apart. (8) 14. Not enough goals: do I have to emphasise it?(10) 18. Found on sea lion? (4) 19. Wives and girlfriends mixed up loot. (4) 21. Venetian gold, hidden in rushes, brought back to light. (2-8) 24. Hospital, most spacious grounds behind, but very scary. (8) 26. Tungsten with instruments of torture for seaweeds. (6) 28. A thousand beers in state as chess matches ending in draws. (10) 29. Republic for drying clothes? (4) 30. Detain rep: gave him a respray. (9) 31. Sleep, perchance to… (5) Clues Down 2. Molly Malone’s cockles and mussels (5) 3. Bruise man, beaten, pay off. (7) 5. Travels down to Spain optimistically on one leg. (5) 6. Mother teat, we hear: part of Roman army. (7) 7. Am a gran, but confused. (7) 8. Franco-British relations hit a new low. (2,7) 9. Scorn them if you must but mighty oaks will grow. (6) 15. Novel fortress, Tyneside. (9) 16. Sounds as if you’re lining up to play snooker. (3) 17. The people’s flag (and good books). (3) 20. Sounds bloody and it’s all up: only a primate. (7) 21. Oboist or clarinettist, perhaps. (4,3) 22. You mixed up swine! You’ve got no sense! (6) 23. Gentleman or woman who does it for love. (7) 25. Lean East for heading. (5) 27. North and South are OK? (5) Solution to February crossword: Across: 1.Acute 4.Candlemas 10.Imperium 11.Induce 12.Requiring 14.Spade 17.Glue 18.Adapt 22.Needy 23.Imparts 24.Fling 25.Enact 28.Hare 31.Light 34.Examining 36.Aspire 37.Outlawed 38.Recusants 39.Spuds Down: 2.Commend 3.The cusp 5.Arming 6.Dais 7.End up 8.Alcid 9.Fiery 13.Glare 14.Sense 15.Arena 16.Egypt 18.Awful 19.Aping 20.Tight 21.Spare 26.Nanoamp 27.Contend 29.Export 30.Smith 32.Issue 33.Haiku 35.Leda
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33 Spot the difference Results for February’s copy: how many did you find? Can you spot March's 12 differences. Poems IN THE CHOIR VESTRY— with apologies to John Betjeman. Oh, let me take this collar off, As all the choir walks back to pray, Whilst the beauteous fields of Ashwell Bask beneath an English day. Was Walmisley in D Minor flat? Did Lady Flora wear her hat? Gracious Lord, assist our voices, Make our practices worthwhile. Can our Anthems reign victorious Every Sunday, sung with style? Wash Me Throughly, Lift Up Lightly, Wesley, Merrick - sung too brightly? Robing neath the ancient bell floor, Elbows flying, coats and bags, Sticks with handles, keep them safe, Lord, Till we’ve sung our Psalms and Mags. Lord, put beneath thy special care The Rectory, and Simon’s hair. As choristers we work quite hard, Lord, For our Festal Evensong. Every Friday night we note-bash, Hoping we won’t sing it wrong. O keep us Lord in perfect pitch, Let Howells flow without a hitch! We stand prepared, Lord, all to view The Risen Christ in evening sun. Our places waiting - polished pews With lighted candles, all is done. An hour of peace in life’s mad rushThe Quiet Waters, please do hush. Marjorie Fitt. 2nd Soprano.
34 CHURCHES St Mary’s (Rector) 742277 (Church Office) 743922 URC (Christine James) 742684 Quaker (Ian Chandler) 743091 Zoar Baptist 742273 Roman Catholic baldock@rcdow.org.uk SHOPS & MUSEUM Ashwell Museum (curator) 742956 Ashwell Pharmacy 742250 Ashwell Stores (currently no phone) Crumps Butchers 742255 Days Bakers 742202 Rhubarb & Mustard 743462 Sarah’s Farm Shop 01763 852376 CLUBS & ORGANISATIONS etc. Border Ramblers 743723 Horticultural Society 742040 Mothers Union 743587 Mummers 743091 Museum Friends (Karen Mills) 742155 Nature Reserve (warden) 742684 Rose & Crown Folk 743091 Theatre Club Info@ashwelltheatre.co.uk W.I. margaret.wallace7@btopenworld.com Yoga Classes (Tracey Luggeri) 743499 HEALTH Care Guild (Graham Scott) 07545 273483 Dentist 742353 Doctor’s Surgery 417377 Pharmacy 742250 YOUNG PEOPLE & EDUCATION Asheteria Youth Club 01763 241587 Ashwell Playgroup 07565 528194 Ashwell Primary School 742297 Brownies ashwellbrownies@gmail.com Guides (Sue Long) 01223 208337 Rainbows ashwellrainbows@gmail.com Scouts, Cubs, Beavers Chair@1stAshwellscouts.org.uk Useful Numbers LOCAL SERVICES Ashwell Garage 742310 Basketmaker/Chair Caner (Sandra Barker) 743009 Chimney Sweep (Hinxworth) 07736 172988 Computers (Sigma) 742783 Dairy (Blunham Dairy) 01234 376006 Electrician (Gill George) 07990 977124 Electrician (S D Brown) 07760 241922 Hairdressers (Bradley’s) 742043 Hairdressers (Sue Birch) 742298 Plumber (Ian Ruggles) 07890 015055 Taxis (Baldock) 01462 486666 Tree Surgery, Hedge Cutting & Planting. (Hbn Trees) 07487810825 LOCAL AUTHORITY & SERVICES Ashwell Parish Council 743706 90/91 Bus (Richmonds) 01763 848226 HertsLynx Bus 01992 555513 County Council (Steve Jarvis) 01438 727122 District Council (Tom Tyson) 07546 589377 Library Services 03001 234049 Police (N.Herts Rural) 101 or 01438 757924 Post Office (Bassingbourn) 0345 7223344 Railway Station (enquiries) 0345 484950 HALLS FOR HIRE Ashwell Parish Room 743922 Ashwell School 742297 Ashwell URC Hall 742757 Ashwell V/H ashwellvillagehall.sg7@gmail.com Hinxworth Village Hall 742258 Newnham Village Hall 742931 SPORTS Cricket Club (Bene’t Coldstream) 07971 404481 Football (Andrew Hayes) 07990 598905 Karate 07941 926125 Tennis Club ashwellsport@gmail.com PUBS Bushel & Strike (Vicki and Kieran) 743984 Rose & Crown (Sam and Sian) 239365 Three Tuns (Christine) 654664 UPDATES AND CORRECTIONS Please contact: Ian Chandler 743091 Post Office Opening: Mon. 1:00-4:30 Wed. 12;30-3:00 Fri. 9:30-12:00 March Refuse Dates: 4th Black 11th Purple 18th Black 25th Purple
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