BN April 2012 by Burbage News

Welcome to your Burbage News for April www.burbage-village.org.uk With Easter upon us you may be thinking about the meaning of the holiday period, or you might just see it as an opportunity to have a break from the normal day-today routine. Whatever your beliefs, we wish you a Happy Easter

need any extra software and in fact, you won’t even need a computer – but it helps! If you are interested and want to know more, please contact us at bneditor@burbage-village.org.uk or phone 811990

Spring is here and we can now enjoy the colourful daffodils on the by-pass and at the bottom of the High Street. It is always a lovely display and the colour lifts the heart, bringing with it the knowledge that we will have later evenings and hopefully better weather than last year although the farmers and gardeners need lots of rain. Let’s hope it comes at night time only!

The first Saturday Market and Meet was a great success judging by the comments from the stall holders and viewing public so come to the next one on Saturday 14th April in the Village Hall, from 11.00am until 3.00pm.

April is a busy time for village meetings and these have been highlighted on the diary page, but please come along if you want to have a say about what you want from the village:

♦ The Annual Parish Meeting is on

♦

Wednesday 4th April at 7.00pm in the Village Hall. The Burbage Village Hall AGM is on Thursday 12th April at 7.00pm in the Village Hall. The Burbage Parish Council AGM will be in May, date to be confirmed, in the Church Centre, followed by the monthly Parish Council meeting

Burbage is your home - this is a great time to get involved and/or give feedback. Here at the busy Burbage News newsdesk, we are currently looking for a ‘Community Page Editor (Liaison)’ to help get the local groups up-and-running on their section of the website. It is a thoroughly rewarding job and involves meeting up with the main local groups and teaching their appointed person how to create and update their page(s) on the site. Everything is done online, so you don’t

So whilst you indulge in yet another Easter Egg, enjoy this latest edition of the Burbage News and contact us at bneditor@burbage-village.org.uk with any articles, letters or entertainment suggestions you wish to have published. Keith & Gavin

Your Letters to the Burbage News Swings in the Recreation Ground

London Marathon

Essential maintenance will take place on some of the equipment in the children’s Recreation Ground over the next couple of months. This means some pieces may be fenced off and out of action during this time. Please ensure your children do not attempt to use any equipment which has been isolated

I am delighted to let you know that I will be taking part in this year’s London Marathon. It is true, I will be attending the pre-event “Carbo loading and Guinness Party” and then up early on the Sunday morning to cheer the runners on – tough work, but it has to be done!

Thank you! Village Maintenance Team Where are YOUR children? A number of complaints have been received from the Suthmere Drive area regarding anti-social behaviour. There have been disturbances late at night and in the early hours, with noise and criminal damage by youngsters who seem intent on mischief and vandalism. Apart from loud noise, bins have been thrown around and a wall had to be rebuilt after it was partly demolished This ignorant behaviour will have serious repercussions against any offender caught committing a criminal offence. It is a very unsettling experience for many people, especially the elderly or vulnerable, and all residents are being urged to dial 999 immediately if there are any problems Please ensure you know what your children are up to: Avoid a late night visit from the police who will be taking action about this problem Burbage NHW

However, my son, Adam, will be doing the easy bit and actually running in the event. Seriously, Adam is running the marathon to raise money for the MACULAR DISEASE SOCIETY – a little known charity that is trying to raise funds for research into a debilitating illness that affects a lot of people. If, like me, you were unsure what Macular Degeneration is, it is a disease that is a major cause of blindness and visual impairment. My mother had it, as does Adam’s grandfather. More research is needed to help find a cure. I know that times are hard, and that there are more and more demands on our cash, but if you could find any amount to donate, no matter how small, it would be welcome and Adam would be very grateful. Adam has been training very hard all winter for this event; this is his first marathon and he is trying to do it in a time of under 3.5 hours – this is not easy and is certainly not a “fun run!” So, please support him and the charity if you can.

5 Please go to: www.virginmoneygiving.com/adamjabrown and donate as much as you can. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to Gift Aid it as well, every pound is welcome Thank you in advance Best wishes, Colin Brown Magic Moments There is fascination in those occasions when something extraordinary suddenly appears, and then almost as quickly, disappears again: especially when that something is a restaurant. Jackamole is an example of this recent fashion for transient fine-dining. The Church Centre is many things to many people, but when the fabulous Jackamole moved in they redefined it. It became for the evening, an elegant and attractive place to dine. Low-key lighting, immaculate linen, glass, and silverware, and a large leather sofa on which to relax with a glass of Cava, while we waited for our table to be prepared, surprised and impressed us. We had expected a high standard, but this significantly exceeded our expectations Once seated we were promptly served by attentive and efficient staff that brought the food we had ordered, piping hot, to the table. Jackamole is the brainchild of a brother and sister team and employs amateur chefs to do the cooking, but this should not in anyway deter you from sampling their wares. This food

was as good as any I have eaten anywhere. Quite how they manage this under the circumstances is yet another example of the wizardry apparent in this concept and its execution. Every mouthful was delicious from the starter to the dessert, even the house wine, sometimes a disappointment, was first class. To get all of this, with a cafetierre of excellent coffee and chocolate spills to round off the evening, for a mere ÂŁ28 pounds a head, is truly magical. John Ritchie The March Litter Pick On Saturday 17th March the monthly Litter Pick took place in Burbage. The footpath that runs from the rear of the Esso Garage along to Harepath Farm was cleared of cans and bottles. Most of these were thrown well into the brambles and were difficult to clear. A total of about 300 cans and bottles were collected (yes, they were counted!). Maybe the person(s) responsible for this litter will read this item and will make use of the litter bins and recycling facilities in the village, please? Litter pick volunteer

The next litter pick is on Saturday 21st April Meet outside the Village Hall at 10.30am and join our small band of volunteers

Wildlife Watching

BURBAGE STROLLERS

Andrew Dawes BBC NHU Radio researcher/producer

Irene Dymond

With lengthening days the urge to wander the wonderful countryside around this part of Wiltshire gathers. With just an hour or so before dark, with the sun just setting, I headed off along one of the many tracks that meander through the open farmland in the area. Lost in my own thoughts as yellowhammers called out their ‘little bit of cheese’; the last thing I expected was to stumble across something which occurs all year, but easier to see in early spring, boxing hares. Movement caught my eye, there in the field to my left a brown hare scampered away through a hedge. This hare had seen me well before I had seen it. With binoculars I scanned the field. There, in a grassy hollow three hares, alert and aware of me. If I moved now they’d scamper off, so remaining perfectly still I observed them. Soon they began to relax and run about in wide circles, would they do what hares are famous for? The trio suddenly ran in an even tighter arc, until one, the female (bigger than the male) spun around, raised herself onto her back legs began to fend off the amorous advances of a male in the finest example of boxing art I’ve witnessed. Thoroughly battered the male gave up and scampered off over the horizon and was gone, closely followed by his companions. A fabulous end to my walk, once again illustrating that watching wildlife can be as much about stumbling across the unexpected as days of planning. You can read more on Andrews Blog: http://wessexreiver.blogspot.com (2012, Keep upwith Andrew’s fascinating day by getting his regular Tweets on Twitter: @Wessex_Reiver

I have decided to suggest something new for the Strollers for 2012. Rather than the once a month walk of last year, I am proposing a weekly evening walk of about an hour, all starting and ending in the village. As I spend my weekdays in an office, my aim is to promote more regular exercise whilst enjoying the good company of others. Walking is a great way to socialise whilst exercising and enjoying the wonderful local countryside. I will also be taking along my newly purchased camera as I fancy myself as a bit of a photographer! Of course, no-one is expected to turn up every week, this is a relaxed group. I won't make every walk, which leads me to ask............... Is there anyone out there willing to join me? My proposal is: From Wednesday 18th April through to September, Wednesday evenings – 7.15 p.m. To approx 8.15 p.m. well earned drink in local watering hole optional! There is no cost involved in joining the Strollers for a walk, you are responsible for your own health and safety, dogs are welcome and if you want to have refreshments after then bring some money! Please let me know if you are interested in coming along, have any better suggestions, would like to help me run the group..... Call Irene on 01672 811586 / 0791 769 2451 or email: irene.dymond21@gmail.com

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Patient Liaison Committee June Brew, Chair The Committee met again on the 6th of March, and a wide range of subjects were discussed. We are well on the way to having the results of the survey which will be posted on the Website and the notice board in the Surgery. I am pleased to tell you that they so far have been extremely encouraging! We would like to please draw you attention to the fact that all your repeat prescriptions can be ordered from the Burbage Surgery Website. This is: www.theburbagesurgery.co.uk It would be a great help to the Surgery if all those of you who could, would please use the Website for repeat prescriptions. You will also find useful tips on the Website for self help remedies. Some patients after having blood tests do not contact the Surgery for their results, the Surgery would always contact you if it was considered necessary by the Doctor for you to have a follow up appointment. If you wish, do contact the Surgery for your results during the afternoons as the phones will be less busy. Please keep your comments coming we love to hear from you patientliaison@hotmail.co.uk PS. The results of the survey are now on the Committeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Notice Board in the Surgery .They will be on the Surgery website shortly.

Burbage Baby & Toddler Group . We are having a busy spring term with lots of fun craft activities and musical games planned. The group is very popular at the moment attracting lots of families from around the local area, who come to enjoy our great play equipment, fresh coffee, tea and homemade cake. We are holding our AGM on Tuesday 8th May, 8pm at the White Hart pub, Burbage. Current committee members would like to step down as their children are entering preschool age. A new committee will be elected at the next meeting. Please come along if you can, snacks and the first drink will be on us! Our sessions are held every Tuesday during term time from 9:30am to 11:30am at Burbage Village Hall for all preschool aged children and their parents or carers. It is a very friendly group with lots to entertain the little ones and fresh coffee, cakes and plenty of chat for the grown ups! Please do join us if you would like to, it is a great way to make friends. For more details contact: Rachel on 07990878593. We look forward to welcoming you soon.

Pre-school had a very exciting visit from Prince the snake, Rosie the spider, Slick the giant land snail and their animal friends from ZooLab last month. The children had the opportunity to handle some of the animals as well as learn a bit about them and take part in some fun activities afterwards. Our AGM is on the Wednesday 25 th April at 8pm in the Pre-school building. The AGM is a chance for parents to hear a summary of the past year, ask any questions and join our committee, if they wish. After the official proceedings, parents are welcome to stay for a drink and some nibbles. Burbage Pre-school is open for children from 2½ - 5 years during term times. Morning sessions are Monday – Friday 9.15am – 11.45am, lunch club is Monday – Friday 11.45am – 12.30pm and afternoon sessions are Monday & Wednesday 12.30pm – 3.00pm. Anyone interested in their child joining the Pre-school can contact our Pre-school Leader, Mrs Janet Burstow, on 01672 811420 during Pre-school hours or 01672 810736 at any other time. Our website is www.burbagepreschool.org.uk You are welcome to visit us at any time, we are located behind the primary school, however access is via the footpath opposite the church.

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Burbage Village Summer Fete

Burbage Good Companions Club Bernard Patterson

Saturday 30th June 1.30 - 4pm Burbage Primary School There will be plenty going on to keep everyone amused, including games, challenges and competitions for all ages, market stalls, village stands and teas, coffees and cakes. The Savernake Scout Group will be back with their popular climbing wall, and the Phoenix Brass Band will also be playing. Entrance will be charged at 50p and includes a raffle ticket. All funds raised will go back into village projects. Every voluntary organisation in the village is invited to have a free stand, and commercial stalls are also available for a small charge. For more information, or to book your stall, please contact Emma Butler at emma@davidandemmabutler.co.uk

Burbage Village Theatre Mich Angel Thanks to the organisers of the Market and Meet, held on the 10th March in the village hall, quite a few people have expressed interest in starting this group. Unfortunately, due to illness, I have not been able to organise anything as yet. However, I will contact everyone who is interested as soon as a first meeting can be arranged, hopefully, in the very near future.

Helping older people to live at home for longer The Bedwyns, Burbage, Grafton Tidcombe and Fosbury Contact Mary Soellner 07557 110418

The Club assembled in the village Hall on Wednesday 21 st March for their monthly meeting. Chairman Mary Powell welcomed those attending and gave news of members in ill health before introducing the speaker Peter Noble. Peter addressed The Club on his Antarctic Adventure, illustrating his talk with superb photographs each one with an amusing or informative story. His primary task was building a new base at Haley Bay and supplying existing bases of The British Antarctic Survey in the 1960’s. His adventures took place a time of transition in polar exploration from a sled dawn by a team of dogs to several sleds drawn by powerful tractors. The explorations lead to the discovery of hitherto unknown mountains. Later in life Peter learnt that a remote mountain, he had not visited, had given his name. The Club made a donation to “Mercy Ships” s charity supported by Peter who has a fund of talks on his travels subsequent to his time in Polar Regions . The next meeting 2pm Wednesday 18 th April in The Village Hall. The speaker will be John Price “A Walk Around the British Coast” Reminder! Coffee Morning 16 th May, when “Pecks Shoes” will be present to assist members, Diamond Jubilee Celebration Luncheon 6th June, cost £5.00.

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Savernake Forest Scout Group Scrap Heap Champions In January our Cub pack won the NE Wilts District Scrap Heap Challenge. The challenge is not revealed until the start of the competition and the only assistance that leaders may give is to help with cutting things up, but only for other cub packs, not their own. The challenge was to build a pirate boat out of scrap materials (cardboard, material, etc). Our Cub’s boat was judged the best and the Savernake Cub Pack went on to represent our area at the Wiltshire County Scrap Heap Challenge. This time they had to build a beach scene. Complete with a hotel, sand dune buggy hire shop, surfboards, lighthouse and even a lifeguard tower, they managed to come out on top again to become County Champions. This was a great achievement for our young people and also another great reflection on our leaders’ dedication. The Beavers have been busy working on recycling too, with a visit to the recycling centre by the village hall. It was interesting to see the look on the faces of the leaders and helpers as they walked into the car park and realised the mobile fish and chip shop also met at the village hall on a Monday evening. Needless to say there was a little more recycling to do once the chips had been eaten. The Scouts undertook an evening hike on what must have been one of the coldest evenings this year. Starting from high on the plain near Everleigh Ashes, the moon lit our way perfectly back to the Scout Hut in East Sands. A great hike, though very cold. The Scouts have also been brushing up on their DIY skills by making magazine and fruit racks. These skills will soon be tested when they start making the go-karts for the District go-kart competition, why not come along and join us? I am really pleased to announce we now have three new Assistant Cub Leaders, Nicola Last, Stephanie Carter and Louise Cook. Welcome to you from the SFSG and a big thank you from me for putting on the uniform. (It may not be ‘the last suit you’ll ever wear’, but luckily we don’t have any aliens either, although sometimes.........) Finally, to mark the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, the group is creating a special wildlife area in the village for all types of wild flowers, grasses, insects, birds and small animals in a safe environment to be enjoyed by the whole community. The group would like to appeal for your Waitrose tokens during the month of April, to help fund the purchase of wildflowers and raw materials to create bug boxes and other insect habitats which members of the scout group will plant and build. If anyone is interested in helping with any section of the group (in uniform or not), or would like more information, please e-mail t.house39@hotmail.co.uk or call 01672 567007, letting us know which section you are interested in and your contact details. Savernake Forest Scout Group

FILL THE GAP AND SWEATY LYCRA Judy Price On Saturday March 10th Fill the Gap put on a' lunch stop' for cyclists taking part in a 200k ride, part of Audax, a national long distance cycling club. Joined by several from our regular Thursday lunches, there were about 80 people in total enjoying an abundance of cakes etc, and of course homemade soups. Rider comments left on the Club website included - 'second control was an absolute gem' - 'enormously impressed with the catering at Burbage' - 'the ladies did us proud, respect' - 'superlative fare' - 'felt like a superstar with the VIP treatment at Burbage' and many more in similar vein. The whole thing was great fun, provided a welcome and replenishing break for the cyclists and also raised a total of ÂŁ146 for the All Saints Church Sudan fund. Guess what? - we have been asked to do it again next year!! Huge thanks, again, to everybody who helped in any way to make this event so successful.

Healthy Diet Rules #3 Petra Gericke Rule â&#x20AC;&#x201C; No cows milk and only a few dairy products Have you always thought that drinking milk gives you healthy bones and prevents/eases osteoporosis? Get informed and think again! Why?: Cows milk is counterproductive if you want to increase your calcium intake. Amongst other things, it is highly mucus forming. When consuming cows milk the intestinal membranes can get clogged up by an almost impermeable coat of mucus, restricting absorption of nutrients including calcium, magnesium and zinc needed to form bones. Instead: Have goats and sheeps milk/ cheese/yoghurt. Overall lower your dairy intake and observe how this positively influences your well-being.

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www.savernaketeam.org.uk Savernake Team Letter April 2012

Rural Dean Mary Edwards mary_avonvalley@hotmail.com 01264 852693

Mary Edwards, Team Vicar writes: Comings and Goings! “Are you still here?” “When are you going?” These are questions I am often asked at the moment. Yes, I am still here and will not be leaving the area until August 2012, and there is still a lot to do in the parishes in the mean time! Dick and I will be moving to the Scottish Borders on my retirement in the summer and are currently looking for somewhere to live. My last service in the team will be on Sunday 29th July at 11am at St Mary’s Collingbourne Kingston. As this is a fifth Sunday it will be a Team Service. St Mary’s is the church where I was licensed 12 years ago, so I thought it fitting that I ended my time in the team here as well. I hope as many of you as possible will be able to come to this service and then share in a “bring and share” lunch at the Village Hall afterwards. That’s the going . . . but more important is the coming! I am pleased to announce that we have appointed a new Team Rector who is in fact already known to some of you. He is Michael McHugh and is at present living and working in the Vale of Pewsey Team. We are delighted that Michael will be leading the church in this team over the next few years. Nothing stays the same and I am sure there will be some exciting new ventures coming your way! Easter is also a time of change – a change which shook the world and as we move forward into Holy Week and the Easter celebrations may I commend to you the BBC’s religious programmes for Holy Week and in particular the specially commissioned and contemporary interpretation of the Passion Story. The three thirteen minute dramas at the heart of the “Preston Passion” to be shown on Good Friday will be at the heart of the Team Service at Tidcombe Church on Easter Eve (7th April). We are taking the radical step of showing these three plays within the context of the service and taking advantage of having the writer of these plays with us – Colin Heber Percy who is also, as it happens, Church Warden of Tidcombe church. There will be hymns and prayers and the traditional lighting of the Paschal Candles from the first fire of Easter. This is a unique experience as we reflect on the events of Good Friday, and wait for the great celebration of the resurrection on Easter morning and rejoice at the change this makes to our lives! He is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia!

20 Working through

On Saturday 25th February a Jazz concert was held at All Saints’ Church in Burbage to raise money to buy seeds and tools for the people of southern Sudan.

The Helen Barrett Trio played a selection of jazz classics plus some of their own songs to a packed church, raising £400 towards this project. At the end of the concert, Archdeacon Alan Jeans tried his hand at playing the double bass! Over the past three years the people of Burbage have raised £25,000 for various projects in southern Sudan. These efforts are on-going and we hope in the near future to exchange people – not permanently!

Building Bridges

Archdeacon plays for the Sudan!

Jazz Evening Review by Allan Masey Settling in to a warm All Saints Church on a glorious Saturday evening, glass of wine in hand and with a house full of expectant jazz lovers, we were not disappointed and were treated to an enjoyable couple of hours listening to the wonderful voice of Helen Bennett and her talented musicians on keyboards and double bass. Helen gave us a varied selection of “standards”, songs from more modern artists such as Kirsty McCall and Corinne Bailey Ray (feeling old yet?) and some of her own penned works. The terrific acoustics of the church only improved Helens lovely voice and she demonstrated her range and obvious training to superb effect giving us a thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining evening. The event was the latest in a series of fund raising for the All Saints Sudan Project that the village supports. The appeal is currently raising monies to provide seeds and tools so that the inhabitants of one of the poorest areas in the world can become self-sufficient. The jazz evening added much needed monies to the fund. Thanks to everyone who supported the event and special thanks to the main organiser, Steve Colling.

Former Archbishop of Canterbury speaks at Burbage Former Archbishop of Canterbury Lord George Carey is leading the annual Renewal Day at All Saints Church Burbage in May.

Lord Carey, whose latest book ‘We Don’t Do God’ is published this week, will speak on Christianity Revisited at the day course on Saturday May 5 from 10am to 4pm.

He will also be available to sign copies of his new book which will be on sale.

Everyone is welcome to come along and bookings can be made by contacting parish administrator Debbie Brown on 01672 810853 or churchofficeburbage@gmail.com. Cost for the day, including tea and coffee is £5 and a packed lunch will be required.

10AM - 4PM SATURDAY 5th May ALL SAINTS’ BURBAGE Former Archbishop of Canterbury Lord Georg Carey, will be leading a day of teaching and renewal, titled ’Re thinking Christianity’. Lord Carey whose latest book ‘We Don’t Do God’, published in February 2012, will speak on Christianity Revisited during the day. He will also be available to sign copies of his new book which will be on sale. Cost £5.00 - Please bring a packed lunch To book a place, contact Debbie: 01672 810853

churchofficeburbage@gmail.com I would like to book ______ places for the Renewal Day on Saturday, 5th May 2012 and enclose £_________ From: ............................................................................................. Address: ......................................................................................... ........................................................................................................ Church (if any) ..................……………............................................. Cheques payable to "The PCC of Burbage" please.

22 ‘WE DON’T DO GOD’ Authors GEORGE and ANDREW CAREY Liz Tuttle writes about the book: In the past few weeks I have read in the Daily Mail several pieces written by George Carey on Christian people in the U.K. and how we are being subjected to persecution (albeit in a mild form) for our belief. Having been asked to review the book, I could not wait to get home and begin reading, though review is probably not what I have achieved here. Chapter one was much as I had already read, giving account of recent stories of Christian faith being put under unacceptable pressure. The authors go on to show how our Christianity has been teaching us and helping us throughout past decades and is still doing so today. They address many other challenges Christians face in daily life. Daily life. What progress we have made! And at what cost? We are all too busy today pushing buttons and watching screens. Are we deaf to the Lord’s written word which should be our moral and just guide for life? Are we ashamed to be Christians? Is not the Queen of our country, Head of Government, right down to local government and local council, also the defender of the faith? And is not that faith Christian? I am a Christian, and make no apology for being so. The Christian faith plays a very important part in our lives. We must not allow laws of Parliament to continue diminishing Christianity. One can’t help but wonder if her Majesty is ever consulted on the changes of law in Parliament. We are called to stand up for Jesus, isn’t it time we obeyed? We have been given a voice and we will be heard only if we stand united. If God is with us then who can stand against us. I will wear a cross. I will offer prayer for those in need. There is no fear in rejection; I am simply doing what Jesus would do. I will not be afraid to follow God’s written word on sexual relations, or to speak out, in truth not in condemnation, my beliefs. I will at all times follow God’s law and love others as myself. I have not covered anywhere near the amount of factual evidence as to why we SHOULD DO GOD, which is why I urge you to read this book. This book is So Right both Biblically and factually I DARE YOU TO READ IT. Liz Tuttle.

The Ladies Group will be attending ‘Releasing your full potential’ with Mrs Bryony Springate on Saturday 26th May 2012 Bryony will cover the following during the day: What traps you and stops you firing on all cylinders? How can you be set free to realise all that God has for you? Through the day, we shall be looking at the “answers” to the two questions, using examples from scripture, and also looking at ways to help ourselves. There will be prayer offered at the end of each session, and hopefully you will be encouraged and enthused! The day course starts at 10am with worship. Refreshments are served midway through the morning, and lunch is provided at 1pm. Lunch, is included in the £20 charge for the day and although Harnhill do provide a vegetarian option, they are unable to cater for any other diet. We will be stopping for a meal on the way back from Harnhill. Please book your place with Debbie Brown on 01672 810853.

It is that time of year again, except a few weeks earlier! This year the Men’s Group weekend is a couple of weekends earlier and is Friday 27th – Sunday 29th April. The weekend will focus on the Lord’s Prayer with three talks: ‘your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven’; ‘forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who have sinned against us’; ‘give us today our daily bread’. How often have you said those words without really stopping to think what they mean; really mean? Well here is your chance! The weekend is being held in the Brecon Beacons details of the accommodation are in the link below: http://www.perth-y-pia.co.uk/ Other details: Cost: We hope to keep costs to £100 for the whole weekend, including food but it will depend on numbers. Deposit: If you are able to come we would like a deposit of £20 by mid March. Activities: The accommodation is in a great location for walkers and non-walkers alike with plenty to see and do within easy reach. We will plan an afternoon walk on Friday and a day walk on Saturday. Talks: There will be three as outline above: Friday evening, Saturday evening and Sunday morning. Music: We are blessed to have Tim with us for the weekend (he did the music for Justin’s midweek meeting talk this month) so we should have some great worship time together. Spaces: We are aiming for a group of 24! Questions: If you need more info please contact me and will answer any questions you have. So if you want to come please let: me, Ralph, Alan, Peter, Dave, or Jonathon know as soon as possible.

Dickie

26 Ladies Group @ All Saints’ Church Burbage churchofficeburbage@gmail.com

Please join us for a Ladies’ Breakfast Saturday 19th May at 9am Church Centre Enjoy a continental breakfast in a relaxed atmosphere and listen to our very own

Shirley Tawney,

who is going to share her journey of faith with us. For more information on this event contact Debbie Brown on 01672 810853 or any of the other ladies on the committee: Linda Dytham Heather Moore Kay Francis Joyce Kennington Val Nelson Piercy and Sue Goalby

CALL MY WINE BLUFF The Church Centre, Burbage

Saturday 19th May 7.30pm A light hearted and entertaining evening when teams of 4 – 6 test their palates and knowledge against the questionable information given by our panel of local ‘experts’! Tickets £10 per person from Trish Street 01672 810965 or Jane Bowyer 01672 810969

All profits to the Sudan Building Bridges Fund

During the Clergy Vacancy For enquiries about : Weddings, Funerals or Baptisms, go initially to Mrs. Debbie Brown, Church Administrator, who will liaise with the appropriate people; Debbie is in the Church Office every weekday morning: 01672 810853. For problems which you feel need the help of a minister: For questions concerning Young People’s worship: go to Rev. Linda Dytham: 01672 811025.

Appointing new clergy We are pleased to announce that the Rev. Michael McHugh has been appointed as Team Rector, to be based in Great Bedwyn. We shall now be able to begin the process towards appointing a Team Vicar to be resident in Burbage.

For matters which Lay Pastoral Assistants may be able to help with, go initially to Mrs. Sue Masey, who will liaise with the appropriate people: 01672 810308. For House groups, cell groups, the first Wednesday of the month Mid Week meetings, the Renewal Day and the parish weekend at Ammerdown (including bursaries), go to Mr. Barry Smith: 01380 860593

From the registers: Baptism: May they grow in the Christian faith:

18th March William Albert Murray We welcome them into the life of the Christian Church.

Memorial: May they rest in peace: We remember their families and friends in their grief.

On Sunday the 15h April 6pm – 8.30pm we have something very different to look at during our Christian Youth Group. The Preston Passion A BBC televised modern day production of the Easter story. We’re delighted to welcome the writer of these stories, Colin Heber Percy, to share these films and our evening with us. If you’re aged 11 to secondary school year 11 please come along and join us for the evening. Church Centre, Burbage. We’ll have some free Easter food to share which is bound to include CHOCOLATE! Contact Alan & Debbie Brown for more details 810357

'EASTER EXPERIENCE' There will be an 'Easter Experience' display in church from Monday 27th March, through to Easter. The school children from Burbage school are already coming into church to take part in the 'Experience'.

Everyone is very welcome to come along any time during the day to take a look at this new venture.

Every blessing Linda

Please see our website for further information on any events or services detailed in this section:

www.savernaketeam.com/ Burbage-and-tidcombe

Coffee N Browse Special! As April’s Coffee N Browse would have fallen on Good Friday it will be on the 30th March instead, when all the morning’s proceeds will be going to support the Church’s Tear Fund project, which is currently supporting agricultural projects in Sudan. Jean Weller & Cynthia Mitchell have put together a ”decorate your own pot & plant your own harlequin flowers (sparaxis) for £1.50” table, which should be great fun. As well as the book swap table & play area there will be great tables too between 9 & 12 noon at the Church Centre, namely: Crafts from Norma & Brian Tubb; individually crafted greeting cards from Pam Lovell & Jean Weller; and the Mothers’ Unions’ stall of delights. Please come and join us on the 30th March between 9am and 12 noon at the Church Centre.

Working through

Building Bridges

From the Diary Further events/dates: 27th March –8th April Easter Experience in the Church 1 Apr Palm Sunday—08am Holy Communion. 11am Family Service 4 Apr

Men’s Group Morning Prayers—7.30am in the church

4 Apr

Mid Week Meeting (Wednesday of Holy Week) - 8pm in the church

5 Apr

Maundy Thursday—8pm Holy Communion in the church

6 Apr

Good Friday—08am Morning Prayer. 11.00am Walk of witness followed by quiet reflection.

7 Apr

Easter Eve—8.00pm Team Easter Vigil at Tidcombe.

8 Apr

Easter Day—08am Holy Communion. 11am Family Service with Communion.

15 Apr

Youth Group in the Church Centre— 6pm to 8.30pm. Fun, friendship, delve Into the Bible. Further details from Alan & Debbie on 810357

27/29 Apr

Men’s Group weekend away –further details please contact Dickie Davis on 01672 810527

5th May

Renewal Day with George Carey—see Debbie for bookings and details

19th May

Ladies Group Breakfast—church centre 9am see Debbie for more details

19th May

Call My Wine Bluff—church centre 7.30pm see larger ad for more details

25th May

Mums & Tots coffee morning—church centre 9am

26th May

Ladies Group Day out to Ladies Day at Harnhill—see larger ad for details.

REGULAR EVENTS Fill The Gap-every Thursday 12-2pm in the Church Centre. Great atmosphere, all ages welcome, come and join us! Coffee ‘n’ Browse First Friday of each month (excluding April) 9am-12noon in the Church Centre

Booking the Church Centre: Please contact: Rob Hartwell on 01672 810839 or email: Ailesbury1@aol.com

Whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Who at All Saintsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Team Vicar........................

Vacant.............................................

01672 810258

Assoc Priest ......................

The Revd Linda Dytham.................

01672 811025

Asst Curate .......................

The Revd Robert Grist...................

01672 811431

Churchwardens.................

Joy Guy .......................................... Peter Devenish ...............................

01672 810767 01672 810296

Church Life Coordinator....

Barry Smith.....................................

01380 860593

Administrator.....................

Debbie Brown .................................

01672 810853

Church Centre Manager ...

Rob Hartwell ...................................

01672 810839

Lay Pastoral Assistants ....

Sue Masey......................................

01672 810308

Magazine Contributions.......................churchofficeburbage@gmail.com

April Service Pattern 1st April

8.00am 11.00am

4th April

8.00pm

Mid Week Meeting

5th April

8.00pm

Holy Communion

6th April

8.00am 11.00am

Morning Prayer Walk of Witness & quiet reflection

8th April

8.00am 11.00am

Holy Communion Family Service with communion

15th April

8.00am 11.00am

Holy Communion All Age Worship

18th April

09.30am

Mothers Union Holy Communion

22nd April

08.00am 11.00am

Morning Prayer Family Service & Baptism

29th April

08.00am 11.00am 7.30am

Morning Prayer All Age Worship

Every Friday Morning

Holy Communion Family Service

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WHAT’S ON www.marlboroughboxoffice.co.uk Your guide to entertaining events in the Marlborough area: Aldbourne Avebury Burbage Calne Devizes Great Bedwyn Hungerford Marlborough Pewsey Ramsbury For information and events, please visit the website or call 07803 611634 If you would like to join the mailing list for WHAT’S ON updates please send an email to: join@marlboroughboxoffice.co.uk

Round-up from outside the village Where more details have been provided to the Burbage News (*), these will be available on the village website: www.burbage-village.org.uk Thursday 5th April, upstairs room, The Bear Hotel, High St., Marlborough From 7.30pm Marlborough Players are having a play reading for ‘Confusions’ by Alan Ayckbourn, for performances 4,5,6 July at Marlborough Town Hall. Auditions on Sunday 15 April 2.30-4.30pm & Tues 17 April 7.30-9.30pm. More info: Ian Philpott - 01672 512302, or website: www.marlboroughplayers.co.uk Saturday 12th May, St Katharine’s, Savernake May Fair in the school grounds from 1pm to 4pm. Attractions include tractor rides, games, a tombola, raffle, silent auction, face painting, a bouncy slide and fun with children's entertainer Mad Pete. There will be a full range of refreshments including a barbecue, bar and hot drinks. Wednesday 23rd May, Memorial Hall, Marlborough College ‘The 20th Century Coronations’ lecture by Sir Roy Strong as part of Marlborough’s Diamond Jubilee Celebrations. Tickets from The Merchant House, High St., Marlborough. £14 (Friends of MH & Hist Soc members £12)

Coffee ‘N’ Browse

Woman’s Own

Sarah Scott

Helen Colling

Thank you to everyone who supported the Coffee N Browse on 2nd March as we were able to send Farm Africa a £50 donation from the proceeds. Congratulations to Kerry Pilson who won the free competition and the tasty prize of some chocolate liquors! Kerry correctly guessed the length of the Scottmobile, she knows her people carriers!!

February’s speaker Jane Nicholson gave a tantalizing account of life behind the front door of Number 10 Downing Street, where TV cameras rarely penetrate. As Head of Security under two Prime Ministers, she clearly enjoyed every challenge that each day and each visitor brought, and to which she rose with skilful management. The stories she told were fascinating and we could have listened all night, but they are not for print - so here I must stop!

There’s no Coffee N Browse in April because it would have fallen on Good Friday so our next one will be Friday 4th May 9.00 am – 12.00 noon (or ‘Star Wars Day’, as my sons would say “May the fourth be with you”!!). See you then. MEETING LOCALLY HELPING FAMILIES AFAR

Next meeting is at the Church Centre Saturday March 31st 9.30am –12.30pm Cost £5 Do join us Bring your own work: knitting, crochet, patchwork, hand or machine sewing, etc,etc… Help and advice always available Contact Helen 810949 or Kay 811093 for details

Raffle prizes were won by Joan Standing and Margaret Cooper. March’s speaker Pam Bemment treated us to an illustrated talk about her exciting adventurous life on the Kennet and Avon Canal and the tidal Thames - which is a big bit of water. Pam was a widowed grandmother when she bought her narrow boat over 20 years ago and has single-handedly explored many British waterways. Living along side the K&A when not plying its waters, she must know it better than some of us know our own back gardens. She clearly doesn’t mind the odd wetting, which is just as well as we heard about some pretty scary moments she had during the floods in 2007 [remember the days when we used to have rain?] We were very impressed by her spirit and pluck, and sense of fun. Why put your feet up in retirement when you can do all this! Raffle prizes were won by Judith Deck and Jenny Palmer We are delighted to have 3 new members so far this year: Pam, Sarah and Jacky and extend a warm welcome to them. April 19th sees the Birthday Party for members; please contact Elaine Dutton if you have not already done so.

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Meet Your Community â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Mervyn & Julia Jones

Interview by John Guy

As you talk to them, you soon realise that they come from Wales, Julia from Gower and Mervyn from Swansea. Mervyn studied modern languages at Swansea University and Julia worked then for Lloyds Bank, in Swansea, and later in London. They first met in a coffee bar and love blossomed until they were married in 1965 at St. Mary's Church, Pennard, in Gower and set up home in Putney, London.

When I talked to Mervyn and Julia about their travels to so many different places, Julia said that always the first priority had been to find where the children's toys were! I suppose that with their sons Stephen and Nicholas settled they could get on unpacking and sorting everything else out. They should know; they have moved about fourteen times in their married life to places as far apart as Calcutta and Oslo as well as the Turks and Caicos Islands, in the West Indies.

Mervyn started out on his career in 1964 in London and training continued when Mervyn, Julia and baby Stephen were posted to Calcutta for a year. His main job was to help develop British exports with West Bengal which Mervyn described as difficult, as this was a period of strikes and general labour unrest there. He also administered Britain's Colombo Plan aid programme in that region of India. After all these years, they still have strong memories of the sights, smells and sounds of Calcutta, a mixture of old colonialism and even older Hindu culture. Then in 1967, back to Europe, to Bonn, in the then West Germany. The embassy was very large

37 with over 150 staff. He found himself a very small cog in a very large wheel. His task was to encourage trade with Britain, which included attending the annual trade fair at Hanover and administering the Anglo-German Offset Agreement, aimed at identifying German imports from Britain help cover the cost of the British Army of the Rhine. Mervyn describes Germany then as now as a complex country with great variety and regional differences, rich in colourful tradition and folklore. Next, after six months learning Polish, to Warsaw, in 1970, still a communist country; they were under permanent surveillance and had to be circumspect in all they said to each other at home. He described the atmosphere in communist Poland as having an all-pervasive greyness and trying to promote trade an uphill task, as Poland had little foreign exchange with which to import from the West.. In spite of all this, they both told me that they greatly enjoyed their time there, travelling round the country and taking advantage of the cultural life. One abiding memory was the strong and very active Roman Catholic Church, with services often overflowing. Mervyn's link with Poland continued when he returned to London to work at the East European and Soviet Department for three years. Mervyn had a further period of language training, this time Norwegian, before moving to Oslo in 1977. From the outset he was impressed by the natural beauty of the country, much of it remote, forbidding terrain. Many of the towns and villages around the fjords were completely cut off during the winter and depended on the local ferry to obtain supplies. For years regarded with some disdain by its Nordic neighbours, the country suddenly became a force to be reckoned with after oil and gas were discovered in Norwegian waters. Then, as they say, for something completely different. They moved to Bangkok, quite a culture shock, where they lived in a 13 acre compound guarded by Ghurkhas. The Embassy had a staff of well over a hundred, largely a mix of British and Thai. Mervyn found the Thai staff a disconsolate group. The reason, he determined, was that the Embassy buildings had never received a Buddhist blessing. So Mervyn decided

to invite some Buddhist Monks to perform that ceremony. They encircled the building with twine, chanted their holy mantras and sprinkled sacred water. The whole atmosphere of the place changed and from then on the local staff were much happier. In Bangkok Mervyn's first job was in charge of the administration of this large embassy, at the crossroads of SE Asia. An important part of his job was to supervise the maintenance of the War Graves of nearly 7,000 Commonwealth and Dutch forces who had died building the Burma Railway. Later he was in charge of the Embassy's political and information department, which was then involved with Cambodian Refugees and the Vietnamese boat people. As a patriotic Welshman Mervyn joined the St. David's Society and later became their Bard. When he invited the Hong Kong Welsh Male Voice Choir to sing at their St. David's Day celebrations he wondered how he would recognise them at the airport. He had no cause to worry! They entered the airport singing 'Bread of Heaven'! In 1985 Mervyn and Julia returned to Britain. He attended a 6-month Joint Services Defence College course at the Royal Naval College, Greenwich and was then seconded for 5 years to the International Affairs Division of the Commonwealth Secretariat in Marlborough House. During the JSDC course he has vivid memories of driving a tank on Luneburg Heath and skimming through the Welsh Valleys in a Hawk jet trainer! At Marlborough House he was involved in work leading to the eventual dismantling of apartheid in South Africa, and spent time in New York setting up an office for the UN Representation of a number of small Commonwealth countries. Then it was off again, this time over the pond, to Los Angeles. Mervyn took charge of the large trade promotion effort in the Seaboard states and Hawaii, including in 1990, The Festival of Britain. There were also road shows in San Diego, Phoenix and Salt Lake City. There he attended the unveiling of a portrait of Daniel Evans one of the early Mormon missionaries to Wales. He discovered that first Musical Director of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, founded in the 1860's, was a Welshman. In 1989 President Reagan was made an Honorary Knight Grand Cross of the order of the Bath. Mervyn was one

38 Meet Your Community cont’d… of the co-presenters of the regalia to President Reagan at his office in LA. After another five years at home, Mervyn and Julia were posted to the Embassy in Brussels, one of the three British missions there. This was a busy slot with major commercial promotions and the launching of the Euro. A major event he was involved with was the unveiling by HM The Queen, HM The King of the Belgians and the President of the Republic of Ireland of the Irish Round Tower in the Ireland Peace Park near Ypres, as a memorial to Irishmen killed, wounded or missing in action on the Messines Ridge in WWl. Mervyn was also the last British Commissioner on the Tripartite Gold Commission set up by the Allies shortly after the end of WWII to return gold which had been looted by Nazi Germany in WW2. The bulk of this gold was found in a salt mine at Kaiserode by the US Army just before the end of the war. Their final posting, which Mervyn and Julia say was personally the most fulfilling, was to the Turks and Caicos Islands in the Caribbean. They moved there when Mervyn became the Islands' Governor in 2000, for work of a fundamentally different nature compared with his previous postings. He was involved in most aspects of government, working closely with the elected Ministers of the Islands. He and Julia have fond memories of the Queen's Golden Jubilee in 2002, when they visited all the islands to take part in the various celebrations. Julia was also much involved with a number of charities as their patron. They also have very fond memories of the warmth of the people and were persuaded from the outset of the central role in the community played by the churches, whatever the denomination. In conclusion, Mervyn said the one woman who stands out is Julia, who sacrificed her banking career for life constantly on the move, packing and unpacking their home, leaving behind friends and family and organising official entertainment for many people including royalty, Archbishops, visiting and local government ministers, senior officials and business people. Mervyn concluded by saying that 'the Diplomatic Service is more often than not as indebted to the spouse as to the officer.'

The First Saturday Market and Meet Sandy Rex, Village Hall Chairman Well, I am very pleased to report that as predicted, the Village Hall was really buzzing with activity, conversation, sales and fun. On Saturday 10th March, all of the planning came off and with the help of many enthusiastic volunteers, the tables were set up, the stall holders all arrived and the doors opened to visitors, without a hitch. Teas, coffees, squash, cakes and biscuits were served. The café area, and all the Market holders and the Meet tables, had a steady flow of visitors. The Cubs held a Tombola in aid of the Hearing Dogs, and the Help for Heroes table sold merchandise. Both did very well in raising funds for their respective charities. The intention of the event was to showcase local businesses, and give a forum for local organisations to meet with prospective members. Also the Parish Council, All Saints Church and the Burbage News were able to present and discuss local issues. From the feedback I have received, both ‘Market’ sellers and Meet ‘organisations’ had their successes, including the new Theatre Group being organised by Mich Angel (see separate article). In addition, a great excitement was to have the Pewsey Fire Service with a Fire Engine attending for the first two hours. They also reported a steady flow of visitors and children were able to climb aboard. My personal thanks go to Simon, Mark, Mark and Vince for giving us their time. I am looking forward to seeing even more of you at the Village Hall on Saturday 14th April from 11.00am until 3.00pm, and would be happy to receive any suggestions for people selling goods that you would like to see attending. Volunteers very welcome. Please see the local website: www.burbage-village.org.uk > Burbage Village Hall > Saturday Market page where there is a booking form. A list of sellers and organisations (confirmed bookings) will also be here.

Burbage Village Hall Sandy Rex, Chairman AGM Our AGM is on Thursday 12th April at 7pm in the Village Hall. This will be followed by a short meeting Minute secretary We have a volunteer for this post! They would like to share this role, so do you have a little time to spare to aid our group?To keep in touch with what is happening in your village, please check our Committee agenda’s on the Village Hall notice board and the website, and come along to our meetings.

Saturday Market and Meet Saturday 14th April in the Village Hall 11.00am - 3.00pm There will be a variety of sellers. Each month there will be a mix of new and some favourites returning. Please contact Sandy for more information.

Burbage & Easton Royal British Legion Club The March Newsletter For members old and new, or not yet joined - this is the Official Club Newsletter By Gavin Ketchen, Chairman.

Dear Members and readers Last month I reported on how well our financial position was looking and I’m sorry to say we’ve taken a bit of a battering this last month. Traditionally, the first two or three months of the year can be a bit quiet and this year has proved no exception. Despite extra entertainment, numbers attending have been down. Also, we have one major repair to deal with - the heating system in the house needs replacing throughout and this will cost in excess of £7k! On top of that, our drinks chiller finally reached the end of a long and glorious career and has also been replaced.

Visitors admission is free so come in, meet with friends and relax in our café area. Chat with local groups and see what they have to offer

Given these two immediate and unforeseen expenses, we’re putting the planned changes on hold until the Club’s funds are back up again. We also have to save for some extra maintenance work that will be needed following an inspection that is due in May.

Are you able to volunteer any time to help the Market and Meet run smoothly in April? 1hr slots available to anyone in the village who would like to get involved in this exciting new venture.

Another interesting development involves making a few changes to our license to ensure we are properly covered for all eventualities - this means that hopefully we will be able to do more fundraising and hold more social events. I should emphasise

Visit our mini-website at www.burbage-village.org.uk to keep up to date on who has booked.

40 that we are NOT looking at extending our closing times! So if you hear rumours to the contrary, please ignore them, or come and speak to me for further information about our developments By now you may have noticed a subtle change to the wall at the front of the premises, bordering the car park. This was not vandalism or wanton destruction, but the proper removal of a safety risk following an inspection of the wall by myself and a couple of local residents. I found the wall to be very loose and in imminent risk of collapse, either into the road or

the car park, and risking injury or damage to anyone leaning on it or any vehicles near it at the time The committee are considering the options to replace or remove the wall completely and we have already received approval for all options being discussed at present, so you can expect to see the wall sorted one way or another, soon The committee itself has been complimented by two new members Roy and Denise. We hope they will enjoy being part of a lively and busy team!

What’s happening at the Club? Members - free admission.

Any Saturdays that aren’t listed, keep an eye out for the latest news by either visiting our webpage on the village website (www.burbage-village.org.uk), phoning the Club (810 369) or looking out for the posters! Film nights and other (new) events will be advertised in the Club Wednesday 18th April: Super Bingo Night Six Main Games, Reverse Bingo all followed by the Super Flyer - top prize £100!. A complete set of books is only £8.00. Doors open at 7.30pm and eyes down at about 8.00pm Saturday 21st April: ThisWayUp: A new treat for the Burbage and Easton Royal British Legion Club! ThisWayUp are a five-piece female fronted covers band from Melksham, Wiltshire. They have performed at many clubs all over the country Saturday 26th May: Jubilee Rock ‘n’ Roll Night with Elvis56: Our extremely popular Elvis is coming back for a Jubilee Special! Expanding his act, Elvis56 will be performing some of the great Rock ‘n’ Roll hits! A great act for The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations

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Judy Brooks MCFHP MAFHP RGN Member of the British Association of Foot Health Professionals

NEW - Clinic at The Equilibrium Clinic Woodborough Garden Centre For appointments call 01672 861737 or 07901 556799

Tales from the Potting Shed During the month, two Parish Councillors will meet the Wiltshire Council bio-diversity team to review areas for wildflower habitats for pretty flowers that attract birds and insects. Some user groups have been contacted and the Primary School are interested to have wild flowers around the Diamond Jubilee trees, the Scout group wishes to be involved, the Village hall is considering a small area of Barn Meadow and the Church are being approached as well. General tasks: Lift & divide clumps of primulas once flowered, plant gladioli every two weeks to have a succession of flowers throughout the summer. Sharpen secateurs and other tools. Check tree stakes and ties are secure. Do not cut hedges in case birds have started to nest. Re-pot house plants adding fresh compost and start to water more frequently. Apply mulch around trees, shrubs and fruit bushes. Get the garden furniture out into the garden and items made of wood get cleaned and then varnished or painted. Check hose pipes and connections for damage by the winter weather and freezing water. Greenhouse: Clean greenhouse glass inside and out. Start sowing now baby salad leaves, melons, peppers, okra, tomatoes and cucumbers. Ensure on warmer days the greenhouse is ventilated.

Fruit & Veg: Pull early stems of rhubarb ensuring they keep in good health by cutting out flower heads. Plant broad beans outside for crops in late June and July. Sowing peas and mangetouts can be fun for children during the Easter holidays and make paper pots. Fill with compost putting one seed in each pot and water well. Plant out when frosts have passed. Flowers: Once hydrangeas show new leaf, cut back long stems to three leaf sets from the base. Drench soil around established daffodils and tulips with liquid feed. Stake out tall perennial. Divide hosta clumps. Sow annual climbers ready for final planting out in June. Feathered friends: Make sure all bird feeders, bird baths and other water features are cleaned out. Birds need fresh water for drink and cleaning. Later in the month those of you with animals that need grooming, leave the hair on the grass so that the birds can use for the inside of their nests. Also leave dry grass, bits of wool from barbed wire fences, moss and plant stems in empty hanging baskets and just see them empty very quickly. The tinniest garden in Burbage can have at least one good sized shrub or climber giving shelter or nesting sites. Good plants to consider are honeysuckle, crab apples, elder, and hawthorn.

Burbage Parish Council www.burbage-pc.org.uk Let me start by asking everyone to attend the Annual Parish Meeting on Wednesday 4th April at the Village Hall starting at 7.00pm. The bar will be open during the meeting so come along and let your views on the village be aired. Also hear what the Parish Council has achieved in the past year but more importantly what we would like to achieve during the coming year. We need to hear your views so we can add those to any communication the Parish Council sends out for public review. An early notice of the Burbage Parish Council AGM which will be in May (date to be confirmed) and will be in the Church Centre starting at 7.30pm when we select the chairman, vice chairman, Responsible Financial Officer for the new financial year, as well as sorting out the sub committees. Do not forget that members of the public are invited to be on these sub-committees with the exception of the finance sub committee due to local government law. After the AGM the monthly meeting will take place. Burbage Youth Council: A member of the Youth Council recently visited the Aldbourne Youth Council at their open day of their new premises. Some good contacts were made and advice on how to progress with the youth council and apply for grants to get youth projects up and running. Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s play area: Having received our annual inspection report of the equipment in the childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s play area, please be aware that the large swings will be out of action during the month of April for up to 5 days whilst they undergo a repaint and repair. Our apologies for any inconvenience but we

must make safety our priority. Other equipment repair works will take place as and when required. Defibrillator update: As the Burbage News donated the first defibrillator to the Parish Council, the next defibrillator has been ordered as part of the Parish Council match funding. This means that in April we should have a second operational defibrillator. The Parish Council will purchase another one during 2012 once we know how the project is doing regarding fund raising for the fourth defibrillator. Wellbeing and maintenance: The submitted tenders for the grass cutting and footpath clearance were reviewed and were originally going to be divided between Wiltshire Council and a local Burbage contractor. Unfortunately the local contractor was unable to take only part of the offered work and therefore all work will be carried out by Wiltshire Council for the forthcoming year, April 2012-March 2013. Community Communication: The Burbage Village Hall Saturday market in March was well attended and I represented the Parish Council. The next Saturday market will be held on Saturday 14th April from 11.00am to 3.00pm and the Parish Council will once again attend. If you wish to use e-mail to contact the Parish Council the NEW e-mail addresses are: chairman@burbage-pc.org.uk or clerk@burbage-pc.org.uk Keith Amiss Chairman Burbage Parish Council.

Burbage & Easton Royal Cricket Club awarded prestigious Focus Club Accreditation Marek Grabowski

w w w. b e r c c . c o m In 2010 the Club was awarded Clubmark accreditation by the ECB in recognition of its work in providing a safe, effective and child friendly environment for the development of junior cricket. Thanks to the continuing efforts of its officers, members and volunteers the Club has recently surpassed that achievement by being invited to become a Focus Club, one of only 19 clubs in the county to attain the required standard. Focus Club status is only awarded to clubs that have shown the greatest commitment to club development and who have the resources to support Wiltshire Cricket in the delivery of its key strategies. The Club had upwards of 85 juniors pitching up for coaching last season and its 1st and 2nd XIs were both promoted to the West of England Premier Leagues. Although their 3rd XI struggled in the Wiltshire League, the Club fielded extremely competitive age group sides from under 9 to under 15, two Wednesday league sides, a Sunday XI and a promising ladies’ XI. In addition it had six

juniors in the county set up, so the Club’s new status was well earned. This year Burbage and Easton Royal CC is hoping to introduce coaching for autistic children and establish a second pitch in the village as part of its ambitious development plan to ease the fixture congestion on its home field. To do that the Club needs to raise significant funds, find new sponsors and attract even more volunteers. If you feel you can help the Club on any of those levels, or would like to play, or just enrol your kids for coaching, please visit www.bercc.com for contact details.

Sports Club 200 Winners Results for the March draw:£5 £5 £10 £10 £50

139 67 7 134 26

Pam Kimber Suzanne Hutcheson Golly Black John Acheson Ann Powell

For more information contact: Ros McGowan (01264) 791324 or Daphne Carter (01672) 810461

A new coaching programme starts after the Easter holidays week commencing 16 th April. Classes are available for all ages from 4 and up, beginners and improvers. For more information, please contact Helen Mackenzie on 811466, or email helenm.mackenzie@tiscali.co.uk

May 2012 Edition Please send your news and articles from around the village by no later than: Wednesday 18th April. Use these details for Classified Ads, letters and messages: Email: bneditor@burbage-village.org.uk You can post or deliver articles by hand to the editors below:

Keith Amiss Willow House, 3 The Withies Burbage SN8 3TT

Gavin Ketchen 5a Webbs Way Burbage SN8 3TF

Cover Designs, contact Bill Mather: 01672 810924 Interviews and help with articles, contact John Guy: 01672 810767

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Burbage News Burbage News is the independent local community magazine for Burbage, with over 800 copies being distributed each month. Items are welcomed from clubs, organisations, businesses and the public but may be edited for legal reasons and/or to fit the editorial space. Every care is taken to ensure that articles and wording do not offend, but no responsibility can be accepted for statements made by the subscribing authors. The views expressed may not represent the views of the Burbage News editors. Articles submitted to the Burbage News will also appear in the online version. If your article contains personal information for yourself or others, such as a birthday, name, address, telephone number or email address &c, you can have this information removed or replaced from the online copy before it is posted. You MUST inform the Editors when submitting an article IF you want any changes made to the online version, including the contributor acknowledgement for articles. It is otherwise assumed you give and/or have obtained the relevant permission(s), for any personal detail/s (or other information) which is reproduced in the online copy of any issue of the Burbage News