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1FREE - PLEASE TAKE A COPY April/May 2017
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The Sou’Wester
The community magazine for the western parishes
April/May 2017
Around the West...................p 4
Rector’s letter..........................p 9
Le Mont Varouf...................p 14
Guernsey Trout Society......p 16
Why cheese?........................p 20
Reservoir walk.....................p 22
Torteval concert..................p 28
La Houguette........................p 32
Editorial OfficeEditor: [email protected] and Advertising enquiries Nancy Smith 263993 [email protected]: [email protected]
Deadline for copy to Editor: Monday April 24th for the June/July 2017 issue.
The views expressed by contributors to the magazine are not necessarily those of the Priests and Church Wardens of the Parish churches of St Saviour’s, Forest, Torteval and St Peter’s.
Cover picture of St Saviour’s Reservoir by Jon Le Ray Air to Air & Aerial PhotographerTel: 07781 441418jonlerayphotography.com
WELCOME to the Easter edition of your Sou’Wester magazine, where we are celebrating our wonderful parishes here in the south and west of the beautiful island of Guernsey.
In this issue, we are focusing on one of the highlights of the west, namely St Saviour’s Reservoir. The reservoir has a wonderful diversity of natural life with a rich history hidden beneath the water. We were fascinated to read about a former property (sadly one of many), demolished to make way for the reservoir itself – a project that saw its completion after the Second World War. Read more on page 14. Enormous thanks to Rod Ferbrache for his fabulous virtual bird walk, which you can read on page 22 – take along your copy this month and go and discover the delights for yourself, armed with your personal guide! While on the subject of reservoir wildlife, did you know about the size of the Rainbow Trout and Carp currently found in the reservoir? Meyrick Simmonds gives us an exclusive insight into the local fly fishing community which continues to thrive.
If you have any interesting facts, stories or perhaps information about a forthcoming event that you would like to promote, we would love to hear from you – simply email us at [email protected], or pop anything into your local church if you’re not an e-mailer!
We hope to have inspired you to enjoy exploring your parish this spring.
Happy reading and happy Easter!
Your Editorial Team
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Around the WestKnit and NatterWednesday 5th April & 3rd May from 1.30pm to 4pm, in the Forest Fellowship Room, all are very welcome.
Spinning Group (wool variety)Thursday 6th April & 4th May from 10am to 12 noon, in the Forest Fellowship Room.
First Friday @ FiveFriday 7th April and 5th May from 5pm to 6.30pm, in the Torteval Church Hall. Youth Group for Infant/Junior aged children. A time of crafts, games, songs and bible stories.
Ignite DiscussSun 2nd April - last “Discuss” until September - 6pm to 7.30pm - for those at Secondary School to think and learn more about our faith.
Ignite SocialSat 29th April 6-8pm A “Bulpitt extravaganza” and Sat 20th May “Dip and Dine” 6-8pm - for those at Secondary School to relax together.
Tea on Tuesday Tuesday 4th April and 2nd May from 3pm to 4.30pm, in the St Saviour’s church hall. Join us for afternoon tea and a chat.
Women’s Prayer BreakfastSat 8th April & 13th May 8am - 9am atSt Saviour’s Church Hall - a chance for ladies to come together for breakfast and prayer - for more details contact Revd Tracy on 263045.
Exciting Extras.....St Saviours Church AGMSunday 2nd April at Church following the 9:30am service.
Torteval Church AGMWednesday 5th April 7.30pm in the Church Hall.
“Rocky’s Plaice” - St Saviours Church Holiday ClubTuesday 30th May - Friday 2nd June at La Houguette School
St Saviour’s WI will meet on the second Wednesday of the month from January 2017, at their new location; Les Adams Methodist Hall in St Peter’s (Perry’s ref: 20C1), starting at 7.30pm. New members are always welcome. 12 April - Argent Funeral Services 10 May - Discussion of Resolutions followed by a Beetle Drive.
For more information, please contact Mrs June Mordecai (President) 07781 106532 via email [email protected]
Western Morning WI meet on the second Friday of the month, at the Sylvans Social Club, St Peter’s, starting at 9.30am.
7th April - Outing12th May - Decoupage Cards with Eileen Jones
For more information, please contact either Mrs M Cartmell (President) on tel 266710 or Mrs G Jeffreys (Secretary) on tel 264196.
St Peter’s Good Companions (previously known as the St Peter’s Darby and Joan Club), comes under the umbrella of the Guernsey Voluntary Service.
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Email us at [email protected] Telephone 257507or Visit www.gatedanceguernsey.co.uk Find us on Facebook
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Personal Tax Returns
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We meet every two weeks from 2pm until 4pm, at Sylvans Social Club. April: 4th and 18th.May: 2nd, 16th and 30th.We have a little tombola, a few games of bingo and a nice tea. But most of all we have a really good chat and lots of laughter! All are very welcome, (transport can often be arranged if this proves difficult).If you would like to find out more, please contact either Caley on tel 263856 or Margaret on tel 264085.
Little Gems Playgroup for children aged 0-3 years and their parent/carers. Every Thursday from 10am - 11.15am at New Life Church, Les Bordages, St Saviour’s GY7 9FN. All welcome. For more details please contact Chloe Newman on tel 266241 or 07839 198504.
Torteval Churches Ladies ClubMeet from April to October omitting August, on the 1st and 3rd Wedneday evenings at 7.30pm in the Torteval Church Hall. April 5th meeting is a speaker from Les Nicolles Prison, and on the 19th, Mrs L Perchard. Look forward to seeing you all and welcome to anyone wishing to join us.Contact Noella Hann 263736
Forest Floral GroupPlease note the annual Plant Sale taking place at Forest Stores will be on Saturday 6th May 2017, from 9am to 12 noon (and not Saturday 22nd April as previously published).
www.forestfloral.org.gg
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Western Parish Churches Regular Services
St Saviour’s (Church of England)8am BCP Communion (1st Sunday)9.30am Family Communion (1st Sunday)9.30am Parish Communion & Sunday school (2nd, 3rd & 4th Sundays)5pm Meditation (2nd & 4th Sundays)
Torteval (Church of England)8am BCP Communion (3rd Sunday)11am Family Communion (1st Sunday)11am Parish Communion (2nd & 4th Sundays)11am Family Service (3rd Sunday)6pm BCP Evensong (2nd & 4th Sundays)
St Pierre du Bois (Church of England)8am BCP Communion (2nd Sunday)9.30am Parish Communion (1st & 4th Sundays)9.30am BCP Matins (2nd Sunday)9.30am Family Service (3rd Sunday)6pm BCP Evensong (1st Sunday)6pm Evening Eucharist (3rd Sunday)
Forest (Church of England)8am BCP Communion (4th Sunday)11am Family Communion (1st Sunday)11am Parish Communion (2nd, 3rd & 4th Sundays)6.30pm BCP Evensong (1st & 3rd Sundays)
Regular Midweek Services:
St Pierre du BoisWednesdays 11am - shortened Eucharist
St Apolline Chapel Thursdays 10am - shortened Eucharist
Special Church Services in the WestPalm SundaySunday 9th April 11am Joint Anglican / Methodist service at TortevalStarting at Les Buttes, we will process with a donkey to the Parish Church stopping for parts of the service on the way, before concluding the service at church.
Holy WeekMonday 10th April 7pm - service of Compline at TortevalTuesday 11th April 7pm - service of Compline at St SavioursWednesday 12th April 7pm - service of Compline at Torteval
Maundy ThursdayThursday 13th April 7pm - Eucharist at St Saviours.This service will include foot-washing and the Gospel of the Watch - reading the whole Easter story through.
Good FridayFriday 14th April 10am Joint Anglican and Methodist service of readings and reflection at Torteval2pm service of readings and reflection at St Saviours
Easter SundaySunday 16th April 9.30am Easter Celebration Family Communion at St Saviours11am Joint Anglican / Methodist Family Communion at Torteval
Sunday 30th April 10am Joint St Saviours / Torteval Family Eucharist at St Saviours.
Ascension DayThursday 25th May 7.30pm Joint Torteval / St Saviours Eucharist at Torteval
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Solace Solace is a bereavement support group which meets fortnightly on a Thursday morning. The aim is to give emotional, spiritual and practical support to bereaved people by providing a friendly and caring atmosphere where feelings and problems can be shared honestly and confidentially. The group provides a support network which is available, not just at the meetings, but whenever help is required.
Meetings start at 10.30 a.m. with a time of general chat over coffee and cake, then focussing on a specific relevant topic, ending at 12 noon with a short reading and prayer. Most meetings are at St. Martin’s Community Centre but sometimes the group has coffee or lunch out to provide a change of scene and an opportunity to build up confidence.
Any bereaved person who would benefit from some extra friendship and support will receive a warm welcome. For further information please phone Revd. Claire Claxton tel. 238815.
The Solace group meets on Thursday mornings, fortnightly, 10.30 am to 12, in St. Martin’s Community Centre and offers support and friendship to people who have been bereaved.
Contact Revd. Claire Claxton (238815) for more details
Special Services at the Forest ChurchSunday 2nd April 11 a.m. Holy Communion, followed by AGM and shared lunch
Palm Sunday Sunday 9th April 11 a.m. Family Communion, starting with a procession into church with donkey (meet at Forest Stores at 10.45 a.m.)
Maundy Thursday Thursday 13th April 6.30 p.m. Holy Communion
Good Friday Friday 14th April 9.30 - 11 a.m. Let’s do Easter! (craft activities for children, ending with a short service at 10.45 a.m.) 12 - 1 p.m. service of music, readings and meditation
Easter Sunday Sunday 16th April 11 a.m. Easter Holy Communion No Evensong service at 6.30 p.m.
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From the Rector of St Saviour’s and Torteval
"Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11 vs 28)
"When you're weary, feeling small,When tears are in your eyes, I will dry them all;I'm on your side. When times get rough And friends just can't be found,
Like a bridge over troubled water I will lay me down." Simon and Garfunkel's Bridge Over Troubled Water.
As a song I understand it has it's origin in Gospel music. And certainly, you could see the bridge as God if you wanted to read it that way. God is our comfort, drying our tears. God is on our side, walking alongside us. God is there when others are not. And God can be our bridge, our crossing point over the troubles that life throw at us.
Each of us will have had, and will again, have times of feeling weary.It may be due to work pressures or home-life, illness or bereavement.But as with Jesus' words in Matthew 11, as with Simon and Garfunkel's song, God promises that he will give us his strength, he will walk with us.
3 thoughts on our burdens.....Some burdens are meant to be SHARED, with others so they can help carry the load. Some burdens are meant to be SHOULDERED, we have to keep carrying them ourselves.
And some burdens are meant to be SHED, left behind at the foot of the cross.
As we approach the momentous events of Easter, may we consider the last thought for ourselves, and bring our worries and burdens to God.
With every blessing. Revd. Mark Charmley
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Forest Methodist Church
Sundays at 8.45am, ‘God and Marmalade’, an informal breakfast cafe-style service for all ages, with activities for children.Sundays at 6.00pm, Evening worship.Holy Week services linked with the Methodist Churches:
Good Friday10.00am United Service at Torteval Parish Church
Easter Day8.45am at Forest Methodist Church: God and Marmalade Family Service (inc. breakfast as usual!) 10.30am at Les Adams10.30am at Delisles11.00am United Service at Torteval Parish ChurchPrayers through Holy WeekIn addition, from Monday 10th to Good Friday 14th April, Forest Methodist Church will be open each afternoon between 3.00pm and 5.00pm for quiet prayer and contemplation. Please feel free to ‘drop in’ and take some time to reflect and pray.
Les Adams Methodist ChurchSundays at 10.30am, Morning worship.Second Wednesday of each month at 2.30pm, ‘Adam’s Apple’, meet old friends and make new ones over activities along with tea and cake.
Torteval Methodist ChurchPlease note, services will take place in the Parish Church at 9.30am on April 2nd, 23rd and 30th, and May 7th and 28th, and joint with the Parish Church at 11am on the other Sundays. Children’s activities available each Sunday, all are very welcome.Ministers, Deacon Siân or Revd. Mark Street on tel 234105.
2017 Holiday Club is
announced!This years club is called Rocky’s Plaice, and the children will find out more about Peter and how knowing Jesus changed his life, and then how he and his friends started to change the world!
At Rocky’s Plaice, children will hear stories about Peter from Acts, and how the early church started to grow. We will have great fun playing games, having craft and construction activities, singing and praying and understanding that following Jesus can be a great adventure.
Please come and join us. There is no cost to join in and is open to all children from Year 1 to Year 6.
Theme: Rocky’s PlaiceWhen: 9.30am to 12 noon (1pm on Friday so we can have lunch together) Tuesday 30th May to Friday 2nd June. Special service 4th June, 9.30am at St Saviour’s ChurchWhere: La Houguette School
R e g i s t r a t i o n forms will be out soon - so watch out for them!
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Church Band -St. Pierre du Bois
The St Peter’s Philharmonic c o n t i n u e s to expand! In addition to keyboard and drums
we now have four violins, two violas and three cellos, plus recorder, oboe, flute, sax and trumpet. The band plays every third Sunday (currently 9.30am) and rehearses immediately before the service.Maximum age - noneMinimum age - school year 4However, as not everyone can make every service, please do contact Mary if you are interested in joining this unique mixed aged happy band!
Starting sometime after Easter...
An informal 7 week course for people who would like to investigate Christianity, or just brush up on the basics. Looking at Mark’s gospel, it explores who Jesus is, why he came, and what it means to follow him. The evening involves supper at the Rectory followed by a DVD and discussion. Please speak to Revd. Mark or Tracy on 263045 if you are interested or want more information.
ORMERING TIDE!Waist-deep in seaweedLies a source of a feedThat we long for each special low tide!An Ormer, it’s called,And it has to be culledFrom the rock under which it will hide.
So, take a small sack,Pannier à Cou to your back,Waterproofs that you can wade in!You’ll be wet as a fish,Though you may get your wish, Great bounty, and then some for trading!
If you fancy some OrmersAs hot winter warmers,You will need a hammer and knife.Transfer the poor fishFrom their shells to a dish,(This may cause emotional strife!)
Beat with hammer till tender.(Whatever their gender), And then find a large cooking pot. For the fish, some chopped onion,a good measure of bouillion,And boil! You must keep it quite hot; Add Bay leaf or twoInto this stew,Some herbs, just a few, not a lot;
Then simmer for ages,So go read some pagesOf the Press, or your favourite book; Check the mixture’s not dried Nor stuck to the side,So every short while take a look.
Just when you can’t BEAR itThe time comes to share it,So just sample the broth for it’s flavour. Fetch some bowls and a spoonIn the late after noon,And your bounty AT LAST you may savour!! Rachel Meinke
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Susanne White - Painting with ThreadsI am a local artist who likes to reflect the diversity of our local landscape, especially the West Coast. Its unique atmosphere, its ever changing light, colours and textures through the seasons and its seas, tides, rocks and beaches. The beautiful headlands and coastal paths, always abundant with wild flowers in spring and summer, are a source of inspiration and are no less interesting in autumn and winter with windswept grasses and skeletal cow parsley and wild garlic. I especially love the bright acid yellow of the Wild Radish flowers in early summer on the headlands and its gnarled twisted shapes in autumn.
I have based a lot of my work on Guernsey’s fields and hedgerows, making the most of the diversity of the ploughed and cultivated patterns of the fields and the flowers, plants and grasses in the hedgerows. I use a macro lens to photograph the texture, pattern, shape and form of the minutiae of lichen, mosses and ferns growing on walls, rocks and trees. I also like photographing rusted and corroded metal surfaces. These enlargements create wonderful abstract images, which I then translate into stitch. I work from sketchbook studies and photographs produced on site, often after seeing an image or view whilst out walking or from the car. Sketchbook studies are developed into compositions, cropping the image and emphasising certain colour and textural areas.
This is then translated onto cotton cloth, which has previously been dyed. I use fabric paints and” Markal Paintstiks” to mark out the composition and then build up the surface with small pieces of fabric to develop colour and texture.
I select a colour palette, much the same as a painter would create a palette, and then gather together a selection of thick to very fine threads, wools, silks and tapes in a basket to stitch with.
Splash!
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Les Buttes.indd 1 17/01/2015 12:33
I decide on the best range of stitches to use for the image but sometimes will use only one, stitched in different sizes and thicknesses to create overall cohesion. Straight stitches are the mainstay of my work with composite/complex stitches used more sparingly. The work is exacting and the process lengthy.
A selection of my work can be viewed at The Coach House Gallery, Les Islets and online at www.gsythreads.com Susanne White
Coastal path with wild radish
Corrosion
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Le Mont VaroufI was born in 1943, and one of my earliest memories as a small child was being taken by my father to see the work being done to finish the reservoir dam after the war. Imagine my amazement when on one such visit, the reservoir had been finished, and it had filled to overflowing. The sight of the waters escaping through the overflow spillways and cascading in waves down the dam wall like a gigantic waterfall made a deep impression on my young brain. But as I grew up, I began to hear stories from my parents that there was a sad family history connected with the construction of this reservoir, namely the loss of a farmhouse which had once been the childhood home of my maternal grandfather, and which had been drowned under it’s rising waters. I was taken by my father one day onto the dam wall walkway during a period of drought, and was shown, through binoculars, the ruins of the house on
the opposite shoreline of the reservoir. In those days, before the millennium walk was opened, the whole area was out of bounds to the public unless you had a fishing permit, and this was the only place from which the ruins could be glimpsed.
My mother frequently spoke of this house, Le Mont Varouf, and related how when she was young, and particularly at Christmas, the Paint family, who at that time lived at La Houguette, would climb onto the horse and trap, and make
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their way to St Saviour’s valley to this beautiful farmhouse, where many family parties were held. We are fortunate that at least we can imagine what it must have been like from a beautiful painting handed down through the family and now owned by my niece, Siriol Evans. Sadly, the house was situated just within the area covered by the rising waters of the reservoir, and it was compulsorily purchased under the acquisition of land (St Saviour’s reservoir area) law of 1937. A water board map of the area shows Le Mont Varouf, on which I have drawn the projected high water level of the reservoir superimposed as a thick blue line. It cuts straight through the house. It was demolished after compulsory purchase, but the ruins are never far below the surface of the water, and can be seen from time to time when the reservoir water drops as it has done recently. In fact, if the walls of the house had not been demolished, then the ruins would have been visible even at the highest water level. I believe that this is the only one of the six houses under the reservoir that can still be seen.
Le Mont Varouf was originally the home of the Mansell family and they had lived there for many generations, in fact Le Mont Varouf
is mentioned in a document dating back to Elizabeth 1st, naming the owner as ‘Mansey’. The Mansells were great horse lovers, and in the late nineteenth century, one Thomas Mansell was tragically killed after being thrown from his horse. His sister Louise, my maternal great grandmother, inherited the house and married a Mr Paint. Their eldest son, Mansell Paint was the owner at the time of the compulsory purchase. Although I never knew him, I always understood from my parents, that my great uncle Mansell was so distressed by the seizure of his lovely home that he became deeply depressed. This was also compounded by the fact that a late attempt by him and one of his cousins to rescue parts of the old house, including an old cider press, and the stone bearing the Mansell family coat of arms, and move them to a safe place in a field nearby, was sabotaged by the theft of the items that same night. They were never found.Although we have the painting of the house, we do not have any photographs of the property. We would be fascinated if anybody reading this knows of any, and I would love to hear from them. George Mansell Le Couteur [email protected]
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Guernsey Trout SocietyIn 1933, a group of like-minded, enthusiastic Guernsey anglers banded together to form the Guernsey Trout Society. In the 1930’s there was no reservoir. So these pioneers stocked some of the Island’s ponds and many quarries with Trout to enjoy their particular style of angling: fly fishing for Trout.
The Society existed until the Channel Islands were invaded by the Nazis in 1940. Sadly, its records for this period no longer exist, having been lost in the aftermath of Guernsey’s Liberation in 1945. In August 1938, the construction of a new reservoir in St Saviour’s began, with the damming of three valleys, fed by three small streams. This project too, was interrupted by World War II. Construction of the new reservoir re-started in February 1945, and was almost complete in 1947. On 15 January 1947, the water in the valleys was impounded and the new concrete spillway came into use as early as 19 April 1947.
The revived Guernsey Trout Society was
successful in negotiating exclusive fishing rights from the States Water Board for the new St Saviour’s Reservoir. The Society began stocking the new reservoir with Brown Trout in March 1947. Stocking with Brown, and then later Rainbow Trout has continued ever since, except for some six years when the Society had insufficient funds to carry out such an exercise. Fishing started in September 1948. The Society has continued to fish the reservoir ever since, except for a brief interval in 1973 when the water suffered a major fish-kill, probably caused by an unusually severe and toxic algal bloom. Fortunately, this has never reoccurred.
Membership of the Society in 1975 consisted of sixty anglers, with an annual subscription of £10. Membership had increased to eighty anglers by the 1980’s, with a subscription of £75. The Society now enjoys a membership of one hundred and twenty anglers, with its annual subscription almost doubled from 1980 levels. Membership is restricted by Guernsey Water, (the successor to the States Water Board) and the Society currently enjoys a considerable waiting list for membership. The Society’s records show a constant repetition of its history, with the annual chore of chasing up members for their subscriptions and fishing returns, the vagaries of water levels and temperatures, the challenges of algal blooms and the comings and goings of Ducks, Cormorants, and occasional rarer visitors such as transient Ospreys. Other challenges that the Society has faced in the past, is the depredations of fish by human poachers and Cormorants.
Other fish also co-habit the reservoir, alongside the Trout. Carp were first recorded in the water. Rudd also made their presence felt in 1984 - these Rudd were probably escapees from an ornamental pond which then descended down a feeder stream and into the reservoir. These two fish are now present in the reservoir in considerable numbers, with some Carp
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The adventure starts here ...
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achieving weights well in excess of 20lbs! The only other species of fish that are to be found in the reservoir are Sticklebacks. There are no other coarse fish species as usually found in UK lakes and reservoirs, such as Roach, Tench, Perch, Bream or Pike.
Society members fishing on the reservoir leave their rods unattended at their peril! There are at least two cases of rods, reels and lines being lost when a fish took a fly on an unattended rod, and then proceeded to tow the entire unfortunate angler’s fishing tackle out into deep water, never to be seen again. Society members have also occasionally had to deal with a hooked duck!
In recent years, the reservoir has been stocked with Rainbow Trout, rather than Brown Trout – some of very large weight – as these provide the Society’s members with much more consistent sport, especially in the summer when high water temperatures tend to drive Brown Trout out into deeper, cooler water; well out of anglers’ casting range.
The Society continues to thrive, and to enjoy challenging fly fishing on St Saviour’s Reservoir. It works closely with its landlord, Guernsey Water, and with other parties who have interests in the reservoir, such as La Société Guernesiaise, to ensure that the facilities at the reservoir are well maintained, and remain available for the enjoyment of all. It looks forward with enthusiasm and relish to a long and successful future. Meyrick Simmonds
ADVERTISEHERE!
This magazine has a circulation of 3,500 delivered free to every house
in the western parishes. Advertise at very reasonable rates:
Black & WhiteQuarter page............................£220paHalf page..................................£420paFull page..................................£800pa
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Enquiries contact Nancy Smith 263993
email: [email protected]
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10 years on.....A few weeks ago I was shown a copy of the April / May 2007 edition of “Shore to Shore”, the Sou’Wester’s predecessor for St Saviour’s and Forest Parishes.
In it was an article by 9 year-old Jess entitled, “St Saviour’s Church choir”.Jess wrote “I joined St Saviour’s Church choir in November last year. I was asked to join the choir for the family services. I really liked being in the choir so I asked if I could be in the choir for every Sunday morning service. We have to go to church on Saturday afternoon to have a practice. At the start I did not have a uniform. After some weeks Mrs Archard found a uniform, which fitted me. I really like wearing it. To complete my uniform I had to have a Royal Society of Church of Music medallion and I was presented with it at one morning service. I enjoy singing in the choir. I like both the services and the practice session. All the other members of the choir have
helped me and are really, really friendly.”
10 years on..... Jess is still singing in the choir and attending practices (now on Thursday evenings). Now she’s playing her part in encouraging the younger ones.I suspect if someone finds this article in 10 years time, Jess will still be in the choir. And the choir remains a friendly place, with room for new members, young or old. M.C.
Jess at 9
Jess at 19
The thoughts of Steve Wright...
If you want the rainbow, you have got to put up with the rain.
All those who believe in psychokinesis, raise my hand.
The early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese.
How do you tell when you’re out of invisible ink?
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“amongst the cuisines of India our Goan dishes have very different, distinct flavours that make them
unique... for yourself”
SUNSET COTTAGE L’EREE, ST PETERS, GY7 9LN
Tel: 264516
2 MILL STREET ST PETER PORT, GY1 1HQ
Tel: 723730
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Easter BiscuitsIngredients:
200g plain Flourpinch of salt1 tsp mixed spice75g caster sugar100g butter1 medium Guernsey egg, separated50g currants2 tbsp warm milkpinch of saffron (optional, mixed with Guernsey milk)extra caster sugar to sprinkle
Method:
Preheat oven (200°C/Fan 180°C/Gas Mark 6)
Grease two baking trays and set aside. Next sift the flour, salt and spice into a small bowl and again set aside.
Using an electric whisk, cream the sugar and butter together until light and fluffy then beat in the egg yolk. Fold in the flour, salt and spice, currants, milk and saffron (if adding), to form a fairly soft dough. Knead lightly on a floured surface and roll out thinly. Using a 7.5cm fluted round cutter, cut into rounds re-rolling where necessary. Place onto the baking trays and bake for 8 minutes.
Remove from the oven, brush with remaining egg white, sprinkle over the extra sugar and bake for a further 3 minutes or until golden brown. Once removed from the oven, allow time to cool on a wire rack.
Traditionally made on Easter Sunday and given as a gift, these lightly spiced, currant studded round biscuits, have a delicious flavour and sugary crunch.
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Often I am asked . . why cheese?After a fairly long career in nursing, the chance came to try something different. I watched Rick Stein’s Food Heroes, increasingly envying those people who earn their living by producing food or drink and I slowly came up with the vision of me standing, smiling with arms folded in front of a vat full of milk! What better to do than make cheese on the home of the Guernsey cow? Probably THE best milk in the world. Initially though in 2007/8, I started with goats’ milk cheese. It was great milk but there wasn’t enough for a commercial operation. So began Fort Grey, a soft blue cheese chosen because its production needs simple equipment and only
short term storage - as it is sold from a month old. Blue was a good idea as it’s a cheese the Dairy don’t make for the very good reason that the spores of the mould would get into their other products.
The cheese room is a converted garage attached to the house. I was lucky that the planners looked favourably upon my change of use application. It is very small so requests to watch me at work are usually politely declined! The equipment I have is mainly secondhand. The vat itself came from Alderney; a non-automated vat, which simply warms up the milk. Everything is hand done; stirring the milk, pouring the curd with a jug and turning the draining cheeses each by hand (about one hundred and fifty per week), as long as there’s something good on the radio!
The blue mould is Penicillium Rocqueforti in powder form and added to the milk warming in the vat. The other ingredients are the sterile bacteria powder added to aid the maturation of the cheese into a soft paste but also a density that will allow the blue veins after hand pricking. The salt comes later; essential for both taste and food safety. The outside of the cheese varies in blue/greyness - it is edible. I make a white cheese called Hanois too but infrequently. It has a blue coat too as that can’t be prevented (blue spores dominate the room) but it is a pretty different cheese. I also make simple curd cheese for the fortnightly Farmers’ Market at Le Friquet, it is good for cheesecake!
The process initially takes two
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days, one of making and draining the cheeses, the second day is dry salting each by hand. The following three weeks include frequent turns and pricking to allow the interior blue to develop. It is ripened in a warmish fridge for three weeks before being wrapped and then chilled until sold from a month old.
This year I am slightly changing tack in that I’ll be selling more at events and concentrating on the cheese toasties that I make. I’ve also diversified into Fort Grey merchandise designed by local artist Caroline Cummins.
It’s a great job. I still can’t believe that I’m lucky enough to do it. Meeting the public and catering businesses makes me feel involved in my community. Added to that, I am so happy to live in the finest parish in Guernsey!
Fenella MaddisonTorteval Cheese
Post HasteIf you are asked to do something ‘Post Haste”, you are being asked to do it quickly and without delay.
When, during the 16th century, the English postal system began to develop around the country, it relied on horseback messengers. Because of the nature of the work, horses needed to be rested every 20-30 miles. This led to the emergence of posthouses all over the country, which provided fresh horses for messengers to use on longer journeys.
The royal post was regarded as a priority and post-boys would gallop into stable yards shouting ‘post haste’ in order to attract attention and then swap their horse for a rested one to continue their journey!
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St Saviour’s ReservoirThis wonderful area of Guernsey is a place I have walked many times over the last twenty years as a result of my bird-watching passion. On being asked to write this article, I thought I would create a virtual walk for you to follow and enjoy for yourselves.
Parking your car in the western car park, you follow the path south through the Monterey Pines. Look out for Crests and Chiffchaffs feeding in the nearby Willows, and listen out for the loud seep, seep call of Short-toed Treecreeper in the Pines. Looking across the reservoir you will see Cormorants resting on the floating rafts. Mallards and Coot will be on the water, along with a variety of gulls washing in the water.
As you approach the house in front of you,
there is always lots of activity in the nearby bushes. Dunnocks, Chaffinches, Robin, and Blackbird are likely to be seen and heard here. Head on southwards, and you cross over the wooden bridge. Stop and look out for Wren, Song Thrush and also Blackcap, all who love this scrubby corner. Up the path, and around the S bend, and you find yourself at eye level with a number of oaks. These are popular to all three species of tit, which will be energetically seeking out insects and caterpillars. Now it’s through the stiles and into a small pinewood that sometimes hosts Long-eared Owl. These would be roosting in the trees.
As you continue along the path a further line of oaks follow near the waters edge, and again this is a good place for Tits, Crests, and Chiffchaffs. Look right of the adjacent fields and you may see Buzzard overhead, and Crows with Magpies in the field. Along the road now, briefly heading east, and making
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your way to the final part of the walk which follows the second finger of water. A stile again beckons you in, and with Elders, Willow, and Ivy there is the possibility of Greenfinch, with it’s long sneeeeeeze song. Goldfinches, Chaffinches, and even maybe Bullfinch in the vicinity, so keep your ears and eyes open.
Stop by the wooden fence and look across the water. There could be Grey Heron in the bulrushes, Coot and Moorhen on the water. Dragonflies could also be present, along with Speckled Wood butterflies. Up another S bend, and at the top is a commemorative stone and a bench. Stop and look across the open water, and you might just hear or see Little Grebe which does breed in this part.
Onward through Willow, which again might have Chiffchaff, and Willow Warbler feeding, and you head into vast woodland. Chaffinch will be the loudest song here, along with Robin. On the right there maybe Kestrel or Stock Dove on the nest box in the field.It is once again on the road, and heading to
the eastern wall. Stop here and watch the Cormorants, Herons, Mallards, Coots, and Moorhens all actively about their business. If it is high tide when you visit, you may well see a number of Little Egrets roosting in the pine trees on the far right. Then it’s back to the eastern car park, along the wall, with Thrushes, Moorhens, and Wood Pigeons feeding on the ground below. Arriving back to your car, I hope you have been successful in finding at least some of these birds, and tempted to not leave it so long before your next visit. Rod Ferbrache
Willow Warbler
Longtailed Tit
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Forest Primary School The Forest Primary School PTA are delighted to announce that sufficient funds have now been raised to complete the first phase of the project to replace the playground equipment. The installation of the infant’s equipment is taking place during the February Half Term, to surprise the children upon their return to school.
We are now turning our attention to raising funds for the replacement of the junior’s equipment at an estimated cost of £25,000. Whilst we are looking at numerous fundraising initiatives, if any local individuals or businesses consider they may be able to offer any financial or practical assistance in support of this ambitious but worthwhile project, the PTA would be delighted to hear from you via email [email protected].
Diary Date: Forest School Summer Fete
The annual Summer Fete is being held this year on Friday 16th June from 5pm-8pm, with parking at Le Rondin School. In addition to the usual fete favourites, will be some new events and a cash prize raffle, all in aid of our playground appeal. We are currently looking for sponsorship for a number of the stalls, so if you are able to offer any support, please contact the PTA via [email protected]. Please come and join us!
Parmesan spring chicken
Ingredients:
1 Guernsey egg5 tbsp finely grated Parmesan4 boneless, skinless chicken breast400g Guernsey new potatoes (cut into small cubes)140g frozen peashandful baby spinach leaves1 tbsp white wine vinegar2 tsp olive oil
Method:
Heat grill to medium and line the grill pan with foil.
Gently beat the egg white on a plate with a little salt and pepper. Prepare the Parmesan on a second plate. Now coat each chicken piece - first in egg white, then in the cheese. Grill the chicken for 10 to 12 minutes, turning once until browned and crisp.
Meanwhile, boil the potatoes for 10 minutes, adding the peas for the final 3 minutes, then drain. Toss the vegetables with the spinach leaves, vinegar, oil and seasoning to taste. Divide between four warm plates and serve with the chicken.
This tasty meal is full of spring flavour - the Parmesan coating gives a satisfying crunch whilst the meat stays perfectly tender.
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Dementia Friendly Guernsey The charity Dementia Friendly Guernsey was officially launched on 6th February 2017 and St Pierre du Bois has been chosen as a pilot to raise awareness and get as many people as possible on a local dementia awareness course. The course is free and lasts approximately 1-2 hours. It is aimed at everybody - not just carers.
To sign on, go to the website: (www.dementiafriendly.org.gg) and click on ‘Awareness Courses’. We are contacting local businesses, shops etc., so you should begin to see posters appearing around the parish.
During Alzheimer’s Awareness week (14th - 20th May), we will be having a promotional campaign to get as many parishioners as possible signed up and ‘dementia aware’, ahead of the scheme being rolled out across the whole island. Please support this charity by getting yourself on the Dementia Friends course now.
For further information, call Tim Langlois on 07911781918 (or e-mail [email protected]).
Public Access Defibrillators (PAD) in St Pierre du BoisThe Cardiac Action Group has recently run a campaign to highlight the distribution of both internal limited access defibrillators and 24hr public access defibrillator sites (PADs), across the island. Everyone in the parish should have received a leaflet with the site locations marked clearly.
What is obvious is that there is a need for more in the West of the island. Currently we only have PADs at Portelet Café and L’Eree toilet block. There are internal ‘limited access’ defibrillators at the Longfrie Surgery and the Airport, but no 24hr sites in St Peter’s village.
If anyone would like to help in some way to have a PAD installed and maintained within the village, please contact Tim Langlois on 07911781918 or Helen at the St Pierre du Bois Douzaine ([email protected]). To find out more about defibrillators, contact the Cardiac Action Group at [email protected] or call 07781129539.
All In The Same Boat“All In The Same Boat”, is an expression used to illustrate a group of people all facing exactly the same benefit or perhaps adverse effect, of a particular event. The phrase has a nautical origin and alludes to sailors in high seas, all facing exactly the same peril, should the ship go down, regardless of whether they were the captain or deck hand. Everybody faced the same risk.
Strike While the Iron is HotTo “Strike While the Iron is Hot” means to take immediate action.
However, the phrase is a medieval blacksmith’s term, alluding to shaping an iron horseshoe at exactly the right moment, (in reference to temperature and not allowing the metal to cool, as this would then be difficult to work).
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Whatever Happened to the Torteval Evening Concert?In recent years, I have reported in lyrical prose on hardy Tortrevites battling the worst the elements could throw at them to be uplifted by words and music at the annual evening winter concert. But no more. Our solicitous choir mistress ever mindful of the welfare of her following, decided a change needed to be made. As age creeps up the joints of the more mature of us (including the author) and ever mindful of our inability to remain conscious beyond the nine o’clock watershed, let alone Match of the Day, she decided it would be beneficial to provide inspiration on a Sunday afternoon. However, it was pointed out that she had not calculated the impact of a bucolic Torteval Sunday Lunch rendering “Half-Time” in the rugby six nations a bit optimistic. Not to be defeated, the ever resourceful Sue had a “Eureka” moment - Afternoon Tea! Knowing that thoughts of a Great Torteval Bake-off being available would tempt even the most dedicated of bon vivant from his armchair or even into the revolutionary notion of for once, not having Sunday lunch at all. I should state here and now, that doesn’t imply that the Bake Off is a female affair, as there is clear and credible evidence that some of the best gâche in the parish is baked . . . by a bloke!
It was a bitterly cold and grey afternoon, when we all arrived at the Church Hall to be greeted by a table resplendent in the best Torteval ovens can produce: please note that I didn’t use the phrase “table groaning with . . . .” so as not to imply Torteval Bakers produce anything more heavier than feather light.
An afternoon of musical pleasure preceded gastronomic pleasure and started appropriately with “Singing to share with the world”. With our world becoming increasingly fragmented, it was good to be reminded of the qualities that unite mankind. The voices of the junior choir blend beautifully to produce a wonderful sound that has become richer as the voices of the senior members have matured over the years. One can only admire the individual members having the confidence and courage to demonstrate their progress as they learn new skills playing a whole variety of instruments that represent almost the entire composition of a symphony orchestra. Following the opening item, Tim, Lauren, Christine, Julia and Katie gave solo performances with voice, piano, clarinet and violin. Katie’s rendering of “L’Orage” where she demonstrated great skill with the fingering demanded by this work, would have shown younger performers what rewards constant practice can bring and provided a role model for their own performances.
The full choir returned with a performance of “Ordinary Miracle” from Charlotte’s Web to be followed by two more rather tricky vocal solos by Imogen and Julia, two piano pieces by Poppy and Barney, the latter quite a long piece played with confidence and Cello and Violin solos by Evie and Louise. This section of the programme was concluded by the full choir’s performance of “Song for Children”.
It was a good thing that Evie’s performance of the “Crocodile” had such clear diction as it carried a salutary warning of the dangers of sun bathing on the banks of the Nile, that separated Imogen’s piano solo and Hannah’s performance on the Oboe.
The choir’s penultimate performance of “Children of the Light” set spines tingling to introduce the three final solos given by senior
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members of the group, the “Owls” by Lauren with an intriguing interpretations of owlish conversations, Katie with Trumpet solo “Album Leaf” and Louise with “Foxgloves”.
For the grand finale the Rector, devoid of habit good, bad or ecclesiastical, led off “I Will Follow You” from “Sister Act”. The introduction of a solo male voice to the well blended mix of young children and the growing maturity of senior choir members created an added dimension to the choral performance and completed the revelation of talent existing in this corner of the island. How fortunate are our young people to have access to the wealth of support and tuition they receive. At the same time it should be recognised the time and commitment the young themselves devote to developing their talents, which increases as they grow older and face the pressure of academic demands as they approach external examinations. Whenever I hear people whining “there is so little for
the young to do in Guernsey no wonder they get bored” I want to grab them by the throat and march them round the music lessons, rehearsals, drama and dance groups, football grounds, sports clubs, scout and guiding groups etc, etc . . . and snort “if they can’t make a bit of effort they will never find anything to interest them anywhere”.
Dick Taylor
Q. Can February March?A. No, but April May!
Q. What bow can’t be tied?A. A rainbow!
Q. What did the flower say to the judge? A. Iris my case!
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BirdwatchingApril and May, the Spring months is when we can see birds in their full glory. The reason - they are in breeding plumage and migrants are returning from the South to their breeding grounds here or further North. Our residents and Summer visitor males are making territories and looking for a female with which to nest and rear young. To do this they are singing loudly and or displaying regularly, thus making it easier to see them.
One of my favourite Summer visitors is the Whitethroat. It is a member of the warbler family and its name is indeed very apt. The male has a bright white throat, his head and cheeks are soft grey and he has chestnut brown wings. The female is browner looking but she too has a white throat. They are partial to scrubland and hedgerows where they skulk around looking for food for much of the time. However, when the males arrive, usually in April, they establish their territories by singing from a prominent perch or make themselves even more obvious by flying upwards with a rapid twittering call as they try to attract a mate. Later in the season, they do this to warn
other birds off their territory. Look for them at Pleinmont or anywhere where there is plenty brambles, bracken or gorse. When May is well established all of our Summer visitors have arrived and other migrants are still on their way North to nest and breed. The first Sunday of May is International Dawn Chorus Day, though you can hear a good chorus from mid April onward, provided that the weather has been kind. On Sunday 23rd April, you would be welcome to join the local RSPB group’s Dawn Chorus walk at 5.30am from the back (Home Farm) car park at Saumarez Park for a walk around the Heritage walk. If 5.30am is too early - meet at the same park at 6.30am instead, for a walk around the Park, followed by breakfast at the Park Café.
Then on Sunday 30th April, you may like to join the sponsored Bird Race Day. This raises funds for both the RSPB Group and La Société Guernesiaise Bird Section and involves teams of usually 2 to 4 people going to as many or few places as you wish and counting the number of bird species seen during your day. For more details, please ring me on 268191 or Donna, our Group Leader on 07781190035. You are guaranteed a warm welcome.
I hope you have a good ‘birding’ Spring.
Nancy Ogier
P h o t o g r a p h provided byRod Ferbrache
Whitethroat
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Learning at La HouguetteMore than just paper and pencilsYet another term has passed at La Houguette Primary School and it is very easy to forget everything that takes place within the school year and the surrounding community to enrich the children’s experiences and learning.
Competition: A pride has returned at La Houguette in being competitive whilst sporting in all we do. Our football team proudly qualified as one of the four top teams in Guernsey to play our Jersey counterparts. Whilst we did not win this tournament, it was pleasing to see the resilience that the boys showed after a slow start. Success in squash and netball has followed. There has also been extended opportunities provided by the Sports Commission to play contact Rugby and some children have even tried Fencing!
Another successful year at the Du Putron Challenge showed that we have brains to match our brawn. Having won the first round we
went on to come third in the final!
Community:The community has, once again become an active part of the schools success. It was a pleasure to be part of Floral St Peter’s work and they are working with us once again to redevelop our gun pit and the German Bunker with the additional support of the Art of Living Community Volunteers and our wider community.
Christmas provided us a chance to enjoy the season within our community with carol singing at St Peter’s and around the local community and the Tree of Wishes. This was rounded off with a little gift for the children from the elves at St Saviour’s Community Centre.
Our PTA goes from strength to strength and part of our 40th birthday celebrations involved a very successful 80’s disco that brought back some very happy memories but some really scary fashion statements! Watch this space for news of our Summer Birthday Party.
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Creativity:The school takes every opportunity to take our learning and experiences out of the classroom and into real life. Reception went on a bus journey courtesy of CT Plus, Year 6 have become Stone Age gatherers in the nature reserve and the whole of the Juniors went Ice Skating!! This is all recorded on the schools Twitter page (@la_houguette). Life is never dull at La Houguette Primary.
Richard Fyfe
Christmas Carols down in the ForestBefore Christmas a large party from two Churches, the Forest Parish and the Forest Methodists, went out together Carol Singing in the local Inns and hostelries on two evenings. We assembled in the Parish Room before setting off in our various Christmas-themed attire and Santa hats. The venues were the Venture Inn, Happy Landings, The Deerhound, Le Gouffre Café and Restaurant, and Guernsey Aero Club. We were ready for the last flights of the evening to greet passengers arriving at the Airport, and were gratified by many weary travellers smiles. We were well received, with quite a few people singing along, and - we hope - it all added to the festive spirit of the occasions!
We did not set out to collect money, but to bring the gift of our joy in Christmas to other people, and chocolates were offered round, by our young people, to the listeners as we sang. However, several generous folk did bestow money upon us, which was donated to the Samaritans, for which they and we were very grateful.
After both evenings Carolling, there were invitations to parties, (with sumptuous food and refreshments offered), given by friends who were part of our singing groups. Afterwards we were rather weary, but very happy!
It is lovely that we two Churches can share joint experiences, as we now do more than ever, at the Methodist Covenant Service, the Church Flower Festival, Christmas events at the Anglican Church, and various others that we enjoy in common, and we look forward to many more.
Peter Falla
Q. How does the Easter Bunny travel?A. By hare plane!
Q. What kind of music do bunnies like?A. Hip Hop!
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La Choppe - from small acorns . . . . The project to restore the Victorian Walled Kitchen Garden in Saumarez Park began in 2006 by the Guernsey Botanical Trust (GBT). In 2007, Carol started selling items to raise money for the work that was basically plants donated to the garden in order to raise much needed funds. Carol took the plants along to the Farmers Market at the Friquet and also at Fairfields. In 2008, she started selling plants and produce that was grown in the Victorian Walled Kitchen Garden, at the garden. This was the beginning of ‘our shop’.
Once the project was well on its way in 2012, a small group of ladies got together to knit, crochet and craft whilst chatting over a cuppa.
The articles produced were then sold alongside the Victorian produce, increasing the income, which contributed towards the running costs of the garden. We had no ‘shop’ as such so had to set up shop and put everything away every time we opened which was time consuming. In 2013, we received some financial help from Floral Guernsey, which enabled GBT to purchase a garden shed, discounted by Stan Brouard Ltd. This was put up and painted with help from State Street employees and we were all very grateful for this help, both financial and practical.
Since then, the number of crafters has grown considerably and our sales operation has developed beyond all our hopes and dreams. By the end of 2016, we had just over fifty people who make items, which are sold, through the shop.
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In 2016, it was the 10th anniversary of GBT and those of us involved in ‘the shop’ felt that it needed a name. We decided that since we only sold local products and everyone knew us as ‘the shop’ at the garden, what better name than using our local language. Hence, “La Choppe”.
The volunteer crafters are supporting the work of the volunteer gardeners and now make a substantial contribution to the cost of keeping the garden open for locals and visitors to enjoy. La Choppe only sells items produced locally, apart from the Heritage seeds which are available. There are a wide range of all crafts and preserves, which we have on display in our ‘shed’. The Crafters also help to run the shop and enjoy meeting the visitors, both local, national and international when they visit the garden.
Every year we take La Choppe into St Peter Port for the Taste Guernsey Seafronts. The Victorian produce and plants that we grow are very popular and also our local crafts are of interest to the Cruise ship passengers. The volunteers enjoy these days as they meet the locals, visitors to the Island and Cruise ship passengers which is good for local PR to raise the profile of the garden.
La Choppe reopens for the 2017 season on March 17th, with ideas for Mother’s Day and Easter presents and we would love to see you there. Even better, if you have time to spare, please join us as a crafter, shopkeeper or gardener.
From 1st April the Victorian Walled Kitchen Garden at Saumarez Park will be open: 10am to 4pm on Weekdays and 10am to 1pm on Weekends.
Queries to 246960 or [email protected] (www.walledgarden.gg) Jan Le Tissier
Hot Cross BunsIngredients:250g Strong white bread flour250g Strong wholemeal bread flour1 Dried yeast (7g sachet)1tsp Mixed spice 1tsp Salt 50g Golden caster sugar 250ml Guernsey Milk 2 Eggs (1 required for finishing glaze) 50g Butter (unsalted) 100g Mixed dried fruit (raisins/sultanas/ currants) 1 Orange (zest) 50g Shortcrust pastry
Method:Put the flour, sugar, spice, yeast and salt into a bowl. Stir in the milk, butter and 1 egg to form a soft dough. Mix in the dried fruits of your choice, along with the zest of an orange. Turn onto a floured surface and knead for 10 minutes. Place in a clean bowl and cover with a clean tea towel and leave to prove, (the dough will double in size - this can take up to an hour). Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and shape, then place on a lightly floured baking tray. Brush with egg wash and finish the buns with a cross, made from the shortcrust pastry. Glaze once more, then bake in a pre-heated oven (200°C/180°C Fan/Gas Mark 6), for 15-20 minutes until golden.
Enjoy - fresh from the oven with our wonderful Guernsey butter!
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The Chinese State Circus comes to L’EreeThe Chinese State Circus pitched its Big Top at L’Eree aerodrome in 1993, which could be seen as you drove along the west coast. Entering via the big fabric red doors, two cultures merged; the smell of freshly made popcorn entered ones nostrils and Chinese music wafted from the auditorium. Making your way deeper into the tent, it got darker and darker; the only light initially was from the pencil torch of the steward directing you to your seat. As my eyes adjusted, I climbed to the top of the tiered seating and sat in excited anticipation of seeing the program come to life.
Around the edge of the circus ring, round Chinese paper lanterns hung. The four stewards deftly climbed up poles that were in each corner to operate the lights for the show. The entire
company paraded into the ring, dressed in beautifully embroidered colourful costumes, waving at the audience. An introduction was made in Chinese and then translated for us. Then the acts flowed seamlessly.
Big Banner Balancing – this was taken literally. Two large banners and one enormous one made out of crêpe paper with bells and embellishments were balanced on the feet of the artists, their heads and even thrown and caught in the pocket that was on the back of their jackets. It was dramatic and carried out with such precision. They even did forward summersaults and still caught them.
Two very attractive girls dressed in yellow with sequins, juggled exquisitely embroidered squares of fabric on their hands and feet so that they looked like spinning parasols. This was just a warm-up; the fabric was discarded and replaced with square tables with elaborate carvings on the legs. This was frequently
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twirled around by their feet, as though they were running through the air. Their timing was perfect and they even exchanged tables in the air!
The Comic Cooks had the audience laughing from the moment they entered the ring until the end of their act. Dressed in white mop caps, not chef’s hats, they proceeded to set up a very long table with sticks inserted at intervals and then started to set plates spinning. They were armed with fans that looked like helicopter blades; one frantically waved this at the plates, dashing back and forth to keep them spinning while the other one fanned the audience. It was hilarious to watch. To stop the plates then ran along and bashed each plate with gusto, the table collapsed and then sprang up again and they caught all the plates before they fell onto the floor.I’ve seen Hoop Divers on television, but watching it live was something else. One red hoop with gold Chinese characters was placed in the centre of the ring with crash mats either side. Each member of the team took it in turns to dive through the hoop while doing an impressive gymnastic move. Additional hoops varying in size were added on top of each other. The troop formed two lines on either side with the last member of the team out in the wings. He ran for his life to reach enough speed so that he could fly though the top hoop that was well over six feet high – he had no springboard. Once he had completed this feat, the other continued on next page
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members changed their stance and shouted “Hoi!” It was exhilarating to watch.
Wearing full trousers in the shades of a fuchsia with a purple top, the girls span three plates in each hand. They danced to the music and really did look like flowers blowing in the wind. The spinning plates created a sound like a gentle wind which was so apt – it was a joy to watch.
The final act before the intermission was a colourful and dramatic performance of Human Pyramid Building. The strength involved was incredible and understandably once it was complete, it was held for only a few seconds.
During the interval, leather straps had been hung from the Big Top, with the centre one having a cluster of bells at the top. With the men on the outside and the lady in the middle, they wrapped these straps around their wrists to pull them up and then let go and fell at tremendous speed. And yes, the audience did gasp!
We now had a Pyramid of Chairs. Thankfully, they each had a safely line attached to their waists as one started at the bottom with a chair. They seemed to lock into place and another girl would perch at the same precarious angle.
The last few had to climb a ladder to get in place with their chairs being passed to them on long poles. Just when you thought that was enough, the top girl performed a handstand and then the next one right down to the bottom one. Wow! The top girl then righted herself and the others followed suit. She then ran down the backs of the girls and jumped off!
The Lion Dance was such a happy act. No live animals in sight, but brilliant choreography and music brought these two man-made lions to life. The masks of the lions seemed to laugh at us and one lion lay against the edge of the ring, pawed the air and winked at the audience!
Juggling with clubs just isn’t good enough after seeing
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Puzzle for fun1 2 3 4 5 6
7
8 9
10 11
12 13
14 15 16
17 18
19
20 21
Across
Deprived of the sense of hearing (4)1
Large Continent (4)4
Was in the Land of Nod (5)7
Piece of land on which something is located (4)
8
The King and I's country in 4 across (4)9
Bird resident in Tower of London (5)10
Inflated sense of one's own worth (3)12
Divine Being (3)13
Move (something) down (5)14
Device for catching animals (4)17
Name by telephone? (4)18
Thick as applied to hair or moustaches (5)19
Hints for snooker equipment? (4)20
Capital of Norway (4)21
Down
Having trouble recognising words or numbers (9)
1
Early navigational form of sextant (9)2
Jumping insect (4)3
Recess in church (4)4
Fish with barbed spines and whippy tails (9)
5
Nocturnal mammal noted for horny plates on its back (9)
6
Pledge or promise faithfully (3)11
Musical work sometimes associated with magnum (4)
15
Reflected sound (4)16
Across
1 Deprived of the sense of hearing (4)4 Large Continent (4)7 Was in the Land of Nod (5)8 Piece of land on which something is located (4)9 The King and I’s country in 4 across (4)10 Bird resident in Tower of London (5)12 Inflated sense of one’s own worth (3)13 Divine Being (3)14 Move (something) down (5)17 Device for catching animals (4)18 Name by telephone? (4)19 Thick as applied to hair or moustaches (5)20 Hints for snooker equipment? (4)21 Capital of Norway (4)
Down
1 Having trouble recognising words or numbers (9)2 Early navigational form of sextant (9)3 Jumping insect (4)4 Recess in church (4) 5 Fish with barbed spines and whippy tails (9)6 Nocturnal mammal noted for horny plates on its back (9)11 Pledge or promise faithfully (3) 15 Musical work sometimes associated with magnum (4)16 Reflected sound (4)
answers on page 41
the man juggle large china pots. They were the kind of pots that you’d plant a big indoor plant in. He made it look as though they weighed nothing. There was one trick after another. He looked dashing in his shiny kingfisher blue Chinese jacket and trousers and black boots with gold details.
The Dragon Dance was a fitting finale. Using UV light the two dragons came alive. The artists were dressed in black and held the dragon above their heads. They swirled and danced around the ring in a violent but elegant fashion. It was very effective and was over all too soon.
Rapturous applause erupted as the entire Company paraded into the ring and the live band played with gusto as everyone waved. I had been transported to a magical place for a few hours’. Reality was soon restored, as I emerged into the September sunshine; let my eyes adjust and wandered back to my car.
S.M.C.B.
Q. Which flowers are not your friends? A. Anemones!
Q. What is a frog’s favourite flower? A. A Croak-us!
Q. Why do bees seek out flowers? A. Flowers have all the anthers!
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AlexandersA common sight in spring and early summer is the wild plant known as Alexanders, a surprising member of the carrot family!
The cliff paths are especially full of them and can grow to a height of three feet or more. The foliage is bold and comparable to Celery, each leaf is divided into three or more dark green toothed leaflets, with flowers that are umbrella shaped and when open are yellow. It is the first seaside greenery of the year and all parts are edible.
Alexanders are an ancient food source, cultivated for many centuries and widely grown by the Romans, who introduced it into western and central Europe including the British Isles. It was an important vegetable used in many dishes in much the same way as Celery or Lovage, and was often used blanched to accompany winter salads.
Alexanders were grown among the sites of medieval monastery gardens and often used in herbal medicine. In addition this interesting plant is also said to be good for digestion and extensively grown for its edible leaves, stems,
41
Western Parishes Church Directory
Rector for St Saviour’s and TortevalRevd. Mark Charmley 263045 [email protected] Priest Revd. Tracy Charmley
St Saviour’sRector’s Warden Mr Roger Arundale 264942 [email protected]’s Warden Mr Victor de Garis 263962 [email protected]
Torteval – St. PhilippeRector’s Warden Mrs Sue Brooks 268116 [email protected]’s Warden Mr David Robilliard 264344 [email protected] Forest – Ste. MargueriteCurate in Charge Revd. Claire Claxton 238815 [email protected]’s Warden Mrs Anne Shakerley 236492 [email protected]’s Warden Mr Keith Bienvenu 238838 [email protected] Reader Mrs Margaret Boden-Heaume 265370 [email protected]
St Pierre du BoisRector’s Warden VacantPeople’s Warden Mr Winston Pipet 265050 [email protected]
Answers to puzzle on page 38
D E A F A S I A
Y S L E P T R
S I T E S I A M
L R A V E N A
E G O O G O D
C L O W E R I
T R A P C A L L
I B U S H Y L
C U E S O S L O
roots and seeds, but by the nineteenth century it was almost completely forgotten. It fell out of favour after the development of modern forms of celery. It is a plant which horses like to eat and is also known by many as Horse Parsley.
Gentle warning - please be sure you have the right plant, as the Alexanders can look similar to Hemlock and Giant Hogweed, known locally as Wild Parsley, but this is poisonous and can give you nasty blisters from its sap. Wild Parsley is one of the weeds that is cut back in abundance at hedge cutting time, but care must be taken, especially in sunshine, as the sap spray can easily land on any exposed skin and cause unpleasant burns.
N.S.
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PARISH DIRECTORIES
Forest Douzaine Room, Rue des Landes, Forest GY8 0HF Website: www.forestparish.org.gg Opening hours: Tuesday 7pm - 8pm Tel: 01481 264401 Fax: 01481 264818 Email: [email protected] Parish Clerk Mrs S Plumley 263376 St Pierre du Bois Douzaine, Les Buttes, St Pierre du Bois GY7 9SD Website: www.stpierredubois.org Tel: 01481 264638 Opening hours: Monday 12 noon - 3pm, Tuesday 4pm - 7pm, Wednesday to Friday 9am - 12 noon Email: [email protected] Parish Clerk Helen Young 264638
St Saviour Douzaine St Saviour’s Community Centre, Le Neuf Chemin GY79FG Website: www.stsaviours.gg Tel: 01481 263414 Opening hours: Tuesday 2.30pm - 6.30pm, Thursday 9am - 11am Email: [email protected] Parish Clerk Mr G Chapman 263651
Torteval Douzaine, Rue du Belle, Torteval GY8 0LN Tel: 01481 265287 Opening hours: Fridays 2pm - 4pm Email: [email protected] Parish Clerk Bob Thompson 263959
Shane LangloisT: 263676M: 07781 127789E: [email protected] Emilie YerbyM: 07781 141077E: [email protected]
Deputies for the Western Parishes.
Contact details below:
Al BrouardT: 263618E: [email protected] David de LisleT: 263077M: 07781 426246E: [email protected]
Andrea (Milly) Dudley-OwenT: 266281E: [email protected]
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Conservation & Refurbishment
Chartered ArchitectsChartered Building Surveyors
Tel: 01481 [email protected]
www.lovellozanne.com
Chartered ArchitectsChartered Building Surveyors
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