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www.LoddonValleyLink.hampshire.org.uk

Page 2

BENEFICE WORSHIP - October 2009Sunday 4th October Trinity 1710.00am Holy Communion St Leonards Sherfield

10.00am Family Service St Marys Stratfield Saye*

6.30pm Evensong St Marys Hartley Wespall& Communion

Sunday 11th October Trinity 1810.00am Morning Worship and St Leonards Sherfield

Childrens Sunday Club

11.15am Harvest Songs of Praise St Marys Stratfield Saye*

Sunday 18th October Trinity 1910.00am Holy Communion and St Leonards Sherfield

Childrens Sunday Club

6.30pm Evensong St Marys Hartley Wespall

Wednesday 21st 4.00pm Toddlers St Leonards Sherfield

Sunday 25th October Last Sunday of Trinity8.00am Prayer Book Communion St Marys Hartley Wespall

10.00am Harvest Family Service St Leonards Sherfield11.15am Matins St Marys Stratfield Saye*

Sunday 1st November All Saints Day10.00am Holy Communion St Leonards Sherfield

10.00am Family Service St Mary Stratfield Saye*

6.30pm Evensong & Communion St Marys Hartley Wespall

*Drive up close to the white gates, which open automatically

Children are welcome at all our services. Services in italicsareparticularly geared to children and families.

Childrens Busy Bagsare available at the back of St LeonardsChurch.


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Issue 420 The Autumn Edition

Up, up with PeopleIf someone parked their car across your drive orwalked into your home you would be justifiablyannoyed if not angry. We like people torespect our privacy and we like to have ourindependence. On the other hand privacy and independencecan result in a sort of Keep Out attitude and at some pointin our lives we all need people.

Some of you will probably remember Air Vice Marshall NigelBlair-Oliphant, a long time resident of Sherfield andworshipper at St Leonards. After World War 2 Nigel joined avoluntary group called Moral Re-Armament (M.R.A.), a

movement based upon belief in God and the need forabsolute honesty, purity, unselfishness and love. One ofNigels friends took Rody and I to an MRA celebration at theAlbert Hall, led and directed by young people from all overthe world, celebrating people. They called it Up, up withPeople.

Let me relate two simple illustrations. On the first day of ourholiday, waking in France with a caravan and 500 miles totravel, I discovered we had a flat battery. The rescue service,for which we had paid, said they couldn't help us as we wereon a private road - a French toll motorway! About to phonethe motorway services, I noticed our English neighbour getout of his motor-home. You wouldn't happen to have a set of

jump leads? I asked. Gerry turned out to be a garage ownerand within 20 minutes we were on our way.

On our campsite one morning, whilst fetching water, ourFrench neighbour burst into tears and collapsed into Rodys

arms. Our German neighbours came to her aid and withinminutes the ambulance arrived to take Marie to the hospital.

At some point in our lives we all need people. If I asked youto summarise the whole of the Old Testament in the Biblecould you do it? Jesus did: Do to others as you would havethem do to you.

Christian greetings,

Page 3


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Breach Lane Baptist ChapelRev Chris Russell 01276 21469Geoff Belsham 01256 882534

October 2009

Thank you for your support at the junior antiques roadshow,From Chris, Geoff. Tina, Charlotte, Megan, and Lizzie

We raised 56 for Naomi House.Dates for your diaryNext event, Young Farmers Market Sat 31st October (this halfterm) 11.00am to 2.00 pm in Breach Lane Chapel.

5th November Breach Lane Gardens bonfire party 4pm till7pm (BBQ but alas no fireworks, due to licence requirements)

Tel. Tina 01256 881608 for further info.

Sun 4 10.30am Family Worship - Geoff Belsham

6.30pm Informal Worship - Geoff Belsham

Sun 11 10.30am Family Worship - Rev Tony Smith

3.00pm Bible Study at Chapel

Sat 17 2.30pm Disabled Christian Fellowship atCamberley

Sun 18 10.30am Family Worship - Geoff Belsham

Sun 27 10.30am Family Worship - Alistair Sneddon

3.00pm Bible Study at Chapel

Mon 5 7.45pm Deacons Meeting at Camberley

Tue 13 7.45pm Church meeting at Camberley

Mon 28 8.00pm Bible Study at Cross House

Page 4

Tue 10.30am Open Morning (please phone)

11.00am Lunch Club for the Elderly

7.00pm Tuesday Club at Winklebury (Mencap)

Wed 2.00pm Kurling at Ridgeway Centre, Buckskin(Mencap)


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Prayer and ReflectionText for the month - Romans 12 ; 5&6

In Christ we who are many form one body, and eachmember belongs to all the others. We have

different gifts, according to the grace given us.

The NIV Bible

Prayer for the Month.Loving God, your call comes to us in different ways and atdifferent times but, to each, when you call us, the call comes

to faith and commitment. You want us to sacrifice our time,money and energy and to follow you. Help us to hear yourvoice when you speak and to understand what you are askingof us. Teach us to respond readily rather than to hide fromyou, feeling we can live our lives without your help. Help us,Lord, to be compassionate, gentle and patient in ourdealings with one another. Broaden our vision,enlarge our understanding and make us a caringthoughtful community.

In Jesus name we pray. AmenPrayer Points for OctoberPray for our forces in Afghanistan that the recentelection will bring a reduction in the level of violence

Pray for the success of the Building for the Communityproject so that extra facilities can be provided at St.Leonards

Pray for those whose lives are affected by the financialtroubles of the present.

Pray for those who feel isolated and lonely as the darknesscomes earlier each evening.

Pray for all who attend the various home groups this autumnthat they may enjoy warmth and fellowship as they studyyour word.

Prayer and Reflection

Page 5


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Page 6

Renowned for delicious

food, great ales and a

warm welcome

www.whitehartsherfield.co.ukWhite Hart, Reading Road, Sherfield on Lod-

don, Hants, RG27 0BT

01256 882280

Ross BrookeFinancial Services

INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISER

Michael Roberts is an IndependentFinancial Adviser based in Sherfield onLoddon, offering a comprehensive range

of financial planning services to bothindividuals and corporate clients.

Whether you prefer fee-based orcommission-based advice, you can be

assured of an impartial, professional yetfriendly service.

The initial consultation is free and can be

arranged at your own home or your placeof work. Authorised and regulated by theFinancial Services Authority.

www.rossbrookefs.com

01256 881360


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Tough Questions Evening at the Four HorseshoesWednesday 14th October at 8.00pm

With Revd Bob Politt & Dr Karen Blakeley

Come for a drink and ask your questions. We dont pretendto have the answers but we will do our best and have a go.We have already been asked to say something aboutResurrection & Creation v evolution & 'What am I doinghere?'. Please ask anything you like, nothing is too trivial. Ifwe have a question it means were searching for an answer.

Parish Registers for SeptemberBaptismsAlexander Thomas PETERSEN 05.07.09 Sherfield

Luke BALDWIN 13.09.09 Sherfield

Joshua & Lewis PEARCE 13.09.09 Sherfield

Hanah EAGLESTON MORRIS 13.09.09 Sherfield

WeddingsCaroline BATT &

Noel SLINEY 04.07.09 Sherfield

Page 7

Toddler Time from Babies to 5sSt Leonards Church, SherfieldNext toddler serviceWednesday 4.00-4.20pm

21st OctoberNursery Rhymes, Story, Prayer.

Healthy refreshments for thetoddlers.

Meet on the red carpet in church.

All welcome


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Page 8

[email protected]


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Page 9

Thank You

We have received several generous donations and some newpledges over the summer months taking the total in ourfunds raised since Easter to 43,767.72. Thank you to thosewho so kindly opened their gardens and supported the VillageOpen Day on 4th July, ironically, Independence Day when Iwas conducting a wedding at St Leonards, a great opener forthe Best Mans speech. Thanks to Dr Amanda Britton and hersponsored walkers, Percys Birthday donations, SherborneWindows generous support and to all those importantpersonal pledges and donations. Those toilets are gettingnearer all the time.

This months major fund raiserSin Cheatle has drawn a beautiful pencil sketch of StLeonards Church (seen below) which she has donated forauction. If you would like to have a picture of this ancientchurch, drawn by a local artist, you may make your bid in aSilent Auction, the highest bidder taking the drawing.Please send your bids to: Richard Elphick by e-mail:

[email protected] post/hand to Revd Bob Politt: The

Rectory, 33 Northfield Road, RG27 0DR.

If you want the latest figure on thehighest bid please contact Bob on 01256

882209.Closing date Thur. 5th Nov.

Ready for ChristmasJoin in a Christmas Tree Festival at St Leonards Weekendsfrom 5th December to 18th December inclusive. You coulddecorate a tree to illustrate a Christmas Carol, help withstewarding or refreshments? You might like to run aChristmas craft stall or simply be there to enjoy theatmosphere. Information from Rody Politt on 01256 882209or email: [email protected]

Sponsored by


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Page 10

HAVEN MEMORIALS

Your Local Stonemason

Office 01252 811691

Evenings 01256 881044

This style standard size memorial in vari-ous materials, including VAT and letters.

Fixed in your local

Cemetery orChurchyard

Only 695.00

Full details onapplication


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Welcome to the Autumn edition of TheLink. The fields have turned from yellow tobrown, the kitchens full of the wonderful

smell of chutney and the swallows havelong gone. Summer must be over.

This months innovation is that we nowhave a website. This is designed to make the electronic issueeasier to find and read but also to give you easy onlineaccess to information about the local people and churches(and not forgetting advertisers) that bring you this magazine.

The address is www.loddonvalleylink.hampshire.org.uk.

Highlights this month.Unfortunately I missed the village show but by all reports itwas another excellent occasion. Find out more on page 15.30mph limits. There are proposals afoot for 30mph limitsalong some of our narrow country lanes in Hartley Wespalland Stratfield Turgis. If you live in these villages please voiceyour opinions. See page 37.Building for the community. Theres a beautiful drawing up forauction. Give it a go and support your community.

Theres a lovely feature article by Pip Iles about an interestinghistory of a local resident. And weve added a bit of colour.If you have any comments please let us know at:[email protected]

Page 11

Editorial

Stratfield Turgis Village Autumn WalkSunday 4th October at 2pm.Meet outside the Cricketers Pub in Turgis Green.

The theme is Woods and Water. Come and join us on a gentlestroll around some of the beautiful sights of the area.Everyones welcome.

The walk should take 2 - 3 hours through the local hills..

For more details nearer the time see the village website(www.stratfieldturgis.org.uk) or contact Sheila Campbell on01256 882351


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Page 12

PygmalionInteriors

The complete interior design

service. Our large showroom

allows us to offer a wide

range of furniture in addi-

tion to fabrics, wallpapers,

blinds, flooring, pictures &prints and many accesso-

ries.

Tel: (01252) 842287

www.pygmalioninteriors.co.uk


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ST. LEONARDSCHURCH OPEN DAYS

Saturdays October 10th and 24thfrom 10.00am - 4.00pm.

Everyone is welcome to visit for quietreflection, a prayer, to study the

architecture or to view the churchwith a wedding in mind.

Page 13


Evergreens Meeting - Monday 8th SeptemberThe guest speaker at the September meeting of theEvergreens was Steve from the Whitewater nursery atMattingley. He explained how to create a winter border andthe type of plants to us for colour. He then demonstratedhow to arrange plants in tubs and hanging baskets. Thisproved to be very interesting and was well received by themembers.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday October 5th whenthe harvest festival will be held.New members will be most welcome.

Jean Berntsen (chairperson)

Successful Coffee MorningA HUGE thank you to all who helped this event tobe so successful. The great friends who gave theirtime for the manual jobs, the making of goodsand produce and the wonderfully laden bring/buytable. I thank everyone so much, for without your help andsupport it wouldn't have been possible to raise so much forSt.Mary's Church at Hartley Wespall. Thank you all who cameand supported our event which has raised over 500.00.

WendyToal


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Page 14

BBasingstoke Network Services

N S

BNS is your local computer company with many years ofexperience.

We offer a friendly, efficient service thats excellent valuefor money.

We specialise in all aspects of software and hardwaresupport, maintenance and training - from installingexchange servers to servicing laptopswe can do it!

Call us on 01256 883838

www.basingstoke-network-services.co.uk

Your computers are our business!

SHERFIELD 0-5SEvery Tuesday 1.30 3.30pmSherfield On Loddon Village HallClimbing frame, toys, parachute games, singing,juice and biscuits, tea and coffee.A great place to meet new people and make new friends everyone welcome! Come and join us for an afternoondesigned to wear out your children!Contacts: Judith 01256 883551, Becky 880894,Kerry 880167


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Page 15

Sherfield Flower, Produce & Handicrafts ShowOn Saturday 5th September, Sherfield Village Hallwas a riot of colour and was soon buzzing withfriendly chatter from the record number of

people who attended. Always an enjoyableevent, the show attracts all ages: from the under-5s competing for the new Happy Faces Trophywon by Harry Merrin, to a striking canvas workrug crafted by Judith Angell, a little older!Heaviest marrow attracted a lot of interest and

there was hot competition in A cake made by a man.The newly-formed committee were thrilled by the fantasticturnout and all the judges commented favourably on the high

quality of exhibits. Photographicentries keep growing and weredisplayed for the first time thisyear in the Liddell Hall, along withart and Loddon Quilters Display.Stalls and a Public Choosessection were also new. With thecurrent encouragement to growyour own and the popularity ofallotments in the village, it ishoped to see more horticultural entries next year.

The committee would like to thank all their helpers and willsoon present a donation to Sherfield Lunch Club.

Sherfield Show team encourageyou to try your hand at exhibitingnext year and look forward towelcoming you on the first

Saturday in September 2010.To see full details and more photosof this years show, visit thewebsite at

www.sherfieldshow.hampshire.org.uk

In the spring you will be able to download next years list ofclasses, entry forms and tips on exhibiting.


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Est. 1982 Charity No. 1029688

For further information,

please contact us o n01256 880903

For a prospectus/

application form, contact01256 883162

E-mail: [email protected]

Website: www.happy-faces-playgroup.co.uk

Page 16

Happy Faces PlaygroupSherfield-on-Loddon

Bring your happy face to our happy place

A small, friendly playgroup for children

aged 2 years 6 months to school age

Flexible Sessions

including all day

MR.Ts Discos

and

RaceNights

Discos for any occasion.

Music from the 50s to current chart hits

Race nights for fund-raising

or just for fun.Complete events run for you.

Just supply a venue.

Contact [email protected]

Phone 07785 580456

01189812916


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Page 17

Sherfield Show Results 2009Sherfield Trophy - Horticulture Norman Smith

Sherfield & District Gardening Club Trophy Norman Smith

Forecourt Cup - Vegetables Norman Smith

Farms Cup - Selected Vegetables Norman Smith

Quenchers Cup - Selected Vegetables John Attwood

The Onion Cup Joe Webb

Loddon Cup - Fruit Jane Malarkey

Gresham-Cooke Trophy - Flowers Terry Raisborough

Traders Trophy - Roses Joan Gould

Crowson Cup - Floral Art Audrey Gordon

Eustace Vase - Domestic Alison Smith

Bramley Camp Shield - Handicrafts Natalie Larner

A.R.T. Trophy - Hard Materials David Cox

Dawson Cup - Fine Art Jane Sawyer/George Lovett

J A Manser & Son Challenge Bowl - Cookery Alison Smith

Lyde Cup - Cake made by a Man Chris Hayward

Photographers Trophy Gordon Joslin

John Rolton Cup - Child Photographer Charlotte Cooper/ Peter Marshall

Happy Faces Trophy Harry Merrin

Elphick Cup - Children Key Stage 1 Erin Cook

Brain Cup - Children Key Stage 2 Hannah Smith

Bowman Trophy - Children Key Stage 3 Charlotte Cooper

Best Allotment Trophy Sue Morse


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Page 18

David and Mary Cole

and Wills Garden Services

Boars Bridge Farm, Little London

Tel: 01256 881354

Mobile: 07951917943 or 07986616687

Email: [email protected]

We offer a complete range of garden services,

garden clearance and tidying, mowing, pruning, hedge cutting, patiocleaning, fencing, patios, turfing, etc.

R & G FencingFencing, deckingand sheds.

For a FREE and friendlyquotationwith no obligation

Contact 07760252588or 01256 332256


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Tess Morris, our President, welcomed everyone andJerusalem was sung. The minutes of the previous meetingwere signed. Correspondence was dealt with, the TreasurersReport given by Evelyn Holdaway confirming a healthyposition, and Doris LEnfant, asked for a member to join theskittles team for the forthcoming competition. Our AGMtakes place in November and Tess reiterated that anyone can

join the Committee and would be most welcome.Nominations to be in next month. Dee Bulpitt advised thatthe monthly walk would be on 10th September, birthday cardswere distributed and Tess added that we are all expected totake our turn providing cakes and sandwiches for the teasand clearing up afterwards. The Business Meeting closed at2.35 p.m.We were then treated to an hilarious talk entitled SaddleSore in Montana by Mrs Ann Chance, who came dressed forthe part in jeans, shirt, kerchief, jacket, boots and jinglingspurs and explained that she had just come back from aWagon Train in Wyoming. She explained that she

had dreamed of being a cowboy ever since shewas 8 years old but had never learned to ride ahorse. At the age of 64 she took private lessonsand the tales of her escapades had us in stitches.After 6 months private lessons in this country she joined acattle drive, working on the prairie in 105 degree heat withgrass and weeds up to her shoulders, covered in crickets.Although Ann has had extremely funny experiences on heradventures, the cattle drives are not without dangers.

Nevertheless, Ann achieved her dream of eating supper on abail of hay, under the shooting stars with a cowboystrumming a guitar. She concluded by saying that she hasnow been on 3 cattle drives in Montana, 1 in Oklahoma and 1in Wyoming. Ilene Iles gave the vote of thanks. Tea followedand the Raffle was drawn.NEXT MEETING - Wednesday, 7th October 2009SPEAKER: Mr I Bradford, Walking the Great Wall of China

Page 19

The Womens InstituteReported by Ilene Iles

SaddleSore inMontana


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Page 20

Your nearest florist

YOUR COUNTRY FLORISTCHINEHAMTraditional and contemporary flowers for

all occasionsWeddings, Funerals, Parties etc.

Remember your loved one the best waypossible, with flowers.

1 Reading Road, Chineham

RG24 8LN(next to Indian Restaurant)

Tel/Fax 01256 840222Mob. 07786 310505

www.yourcountryflorist.co.uk

Jenny Edwardswww.solematters.co.uk

Hot Stone Massage

Reflexology Reiki

Aromatherapy massage

Treat yourself your mindyour body

your soul

to the ultimate in relaxation

01256 880829

Sherfield Private Hire

Local Journeys. Airports.

Any distance.Travel tokens accepted.

Contact Laurie Morse

07785 221538

BRAMLEY ARTCLASSES

Antonia Dewhurst is teaching classes in Draw-ing & Painting.

Monday 10.00-12.00am and 12.30-2.30pm

Wednesdays 7.00-9.00pm

90 for 10 weeks. 80 OAPs

Situated in Cufaude Lane, Beginners &Improvers welcome.

Tel: 01256 883876


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To continue our theme for this year,The Industrial Revolution What has itdone for us?, a group of us visited the

Crofton Beam Engine near Marlboroughduring the summer. Crofton has 1812 Boulton and Watt and1846 Harvey of Hayle beam engines, as well as a collection ofstationary engines. They are regularly in steam from a handstoked coal fired Lancashire boiler and our visit coincidedwith one of the steam weekends.Our summer meeting was a discussion on Agony Aunts.Some of us were amazed to learn that agony aunts date backto the 1600s! (and I thought it all started in the 60s with

Marjorie Proops!). We brought clippings from periodicalscontaining letters written asking for advice on many diversetopics! Some were unbelievable, some were extremely funnyand obviously some were not. We discussed the problemsand then read the answer given by the agony aunt.Our most recent meeting was to read a play.Whose Life Is It Anyway? by Brian Clark. Theplay was adapted from a TV play of the same titlein 1972 and premiered at the Mermaid Theatre,

London in 1978. It was about a sculptor, Ken, whowas involved in a bad road accident and left paralysed fromthe neck down. The play was set after hed been in hospitalfor six months and his injuries had healed, apart from thespinal ones. It becomes apparent to him that he is nevergoing to be able to walk again and he comes to theconclusion that he doesnt want to continue living and to dieby having his treatment terminated. The doctors obviouslydisagree and Ken is visited by a social worker who tries to

persuade him to be positive and think about what he could dowith his life. Despite the morbid undertone, the play was wellwritten and funny at times. Ken has a great sense ofhumour, but does not want to live a different life to the onehe had before. This play made us all realise that the issue ofthe right to die is still with us today.Our next meeting will be a talk on life in the 19th century.

Reported by Gill Fearon

Page 21

TheRight to

Die


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Carl FanningThe Village Decorator

Decorating the Loddon Valley AreaPainter and Decorator

Local Tradesman with 25 years experienceDecorating local properties since 1980

A Dulux Trade MemberGood quality Trade Paints used -Internal and external decorating

Free estimates - advice on colour and paints

Full liability cover - all work is guaranteed

Telephone: Carl on: 01189 424 883or: 0795 266 1965

Page 22


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THE AIR TRANSPORT AUXILIARY andMRS ANNETTE HILL

By Pip Iles.T

he Air Transport Auxiliary (ATA) wasformed in 1939. Initially the pilots were

experienced male civilians, ineligible forservice with the Royal Air Force (RAF), agedbetween 28 and 50 with at least 250 hoursflying experience. The initial duties were thetransport of mail, news, medical supplies,medical officers and ambulance work, and co-operation with the Police and Fire Service. There was norequirement at this stage to assist with ferrying militaryaircraft because at the time the RAF had no reason to believethey could not handle the task themselves. Aircraft requiredfor operational squadrons were collected by pilots of thosesquadrons, and aircraft required for training schools orstorage depots were flown by a pool of RAF pilots set upspecifically for that purpose.With the realisation that war was inevitable, the amount of

military aircraft to be transferred from factories to RAFstations began to increase. Eventually the (then) Air Ministryhad no option but to consider using civilian pilots. At first

they worked with the RAF pilots butdifficulties soon arose. The civiliansenvied the RAF who livedcomparatively comfortably havingthe weight of the Air Ministry behindthem. The service pilots resented

the civilians because of theirfreedom and lack of discipline. Inthe end it was decided that the civilians would take over allferrying. A special short course was set up at the RAF CentralFlying School situated at Upavon in Wiltshire to give the pilotsa chance to fly in all of the types of aircraft they were likely

(Continued on page 24)

Page 23



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to move. These included the Harvard, Battle, Blenheim,Hurricane and Spitfire. By December 1939 the ATA had takenfull responsibility for ferrying and a recruitment drive started.At this stage the male only stipulation was dropped and in

January 1940 one ferry pool consisted of 8 female pilots. InFebruary this was increased to 10.By June 1940 it was apparent that the male section could not

keep up with the delivery ofaircraft and it was decided,therefore, to increase thefemale pool to 26 and also totrain them on other types ofaircraft. This number was to

steadily increase until, bySeptember 1945 when theATA was disbanded, 166female pilots had served.

Although it was viewed in theearly days of the ATA as an adventure and a good chance forsome of the pilots to fly many more hours and in differenttypes of aircraft than they would have, had the war notstarted, the flights were not always without dangers.

International law prevented any aircraft from being armed,there were no radios and navigation was invariably carriedout by using rivers, railway lines, towns and cities etc., aslandmarks. Bad weather brought extra risks with storms andlow cloud base.Some statistics worthy of note show that between 15thFebruary 1940 and 30th November 1945:

The total number of aircraft transferred by the ATAamounted to 308,567.

The total flying hours were 415,000.52 different types of aircraft were flown. The total number ofpilots recruited into the ATA was 1,152 male and 166 female.Flying fatalities accounted for 129 male and 14 femaledeaths. Each year, when the Second World War iscommemorated, the country should also remember the debtwe owe these brave and selfless people.

Page 24


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About Mrs Annette HillAnnette was born in Dublin on the 22nd May 1919. At the ageof 18 years she decided to cross the border and join theWomens Auxiliary Air Force. Following training Annette was

stationed at RAF Aldergrove as an ambulance driver. It wasduring this time that she remembers a strange incident whenshe had to drive her ambulance back across the border, (Eirewas neutral), to recover the bodies of the crew of a crashedLiberator . The bodies were later buried in Northern Ireland.Approximately two years later Annette saw that volunteerswere required to become pilots with the Air TransportAuxiliary (ATA). Always looking for a challenge, she decidedto apply. Several interviews followed, mainly in London, but it

was a very slow process. Annette decided, meanwhile, toremuster and, following training at Blackpool, she was postedto Cornwall as a Radar Operator. Six months later, however,Annette received the news that she had been successful andwas selected to begin flying training with the ATA in May 44.Initial training was in a Miles Magister, and after only 12hours Annettewent solo.

Training was to

continue untilAugust 1944 andthe aircraft flownalso included the

Tiger Moth andProctor.Annettes firstactive flight wasto deliver a Miles

Magister fromGrantham toNewmarket on the 1st September 1944. By 20th September1945, when her service with the ATA finished, Annette hadclocked up 278 hours 55 minutes and had piloted (solo) a:Magister, Proctor, Fairchild, Tiger Moth, Swordfish, Auster 3,

(Continued on page 26)

Page 25


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Auster 5, Harvard, Spitfire, Martinet, Reliant and Barracuda.With her love of aircraft, and the experience she had gained,it is not surprising that when Annette left the ATA she foundherself working for British Overseas Airways Corporation

(BOAC) in charge of internal passenger lines to Ireland andScotland before being head-hunted by Aer Lingus.It was around this time that Annette met another BOACemployee, Dr Maurice Hill. Maurice had joined BOAC afterbeing invalided out of the merchant Navy where he served asa surgeon. He spent five days in the water as a result of hisship being torpedoed. Annette and Maurice were married in

January 47. Maurice moved from BOAC to British EuropeanAirways (BEA) and then, at the age of 40, he joined the

Atomic Energy Authority as a Senior Medical Officer. He latergained promotion to Chief Medical Officer before retiring in1980.At this stage Annette and Maurice were living in Newbury butwere keen to retire to the coast. In Annettes words bysticking a pin in a map they chose Lymington. Later theywere to move to Annettes present home in Sherfield.Annette kept in touch with the ATA and regularly attendedthe Annual Reunions. She was also involved in the

International Air Tattoo for 13 years and was able to bepresent at the 50th Anniversary where she and her colleaguesfrom her ATA days had a 45 minute trip in Tiger Moths, at onestage flying in formation over the airfield as part of thedisplays.In October 2008 Annette was one of the few ex-ATA membersable to travel to London to be presented with a lapel badgeby the Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, in recognition of herservice to the country.

Sadly Annette suffered a fall earlier in the year, and broke herwrist. Further complications arose and she ended up with ahip operation. She was transferred to Alton CommunityHospital for recuperation where I visited her recently. She is aremarkable person as at the age of 91. She still retains herfighting spirit and is positive about the future, planning forwhen she returns home; qualities which I am sure saw herthrough the days with the ATA.

Page 26


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Page 27

Silchester Church of England Aided Primary SchoolSchool Lane, SILCHESTER

01189 700256Head teacher: Mrs S Elliott

For parents of children due to start school in September 2010OPEN DAYSTuesday 13 October at 9.45amWednesday 21 October at 2.00pmThursday 22 October at 9.45amA chance to see our excellent village church school in action

Please let us know if you wish to attendAll enquiries and visitors welcomePlaces available in other year groups

The 25th Anniversary Rotherwick Gift Fair

Tuesday 6th October 2009

10.00am4.00pm

Rotherwick Village Hall

Entrance 3.50

Sherfield Park Community AssociationOn Sunday 20th September the Associationorganised a 5 mile ramble to Sherfield onLoddon for residents of Sherfield Park. Many residents tookthe opportunity to enjoy the late summer sunshine to take acircular walk through the countryside from Taylors Farm toSherfield on Loddon and back. The route took the group outof the development crossing the A33 at the roundabout and

walking through the fields finally emerging at the Sherfield onLoddon roundabout. After a welcome stop for refreshments atthe White Hart the party set off across the village green ontoGosden Lane and through the fields to St Leonards Churchemerging onto the A33 for the short walk back to SherfieldPark. Thanks go to Carol and Carl Mills for organising andleading the event.. David LeivesleyChairman


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DATES FOR YOUR DIARY:Halloween Race Night -Saturday 31st October - Details from Jan on 01256 882539.

Centenary Celebration Dinner Dance - Black tie. Saturday12th December, 7.00 for 7.30pm. Three course meal anddancing to Graeme Hewitts High Society Jazz Band. Licensedbar. Tickets 25, from Loraine 01256 881498, or Lucy 01256882599.

Marvellous Magical Coat - Children's puppet show - Sunday13th December, 3pm. (In association with Hog theLimelight). For families, 5 years and up. Tickets 6 (3 forunder 14s) available from Loraine on 01256 881498.

Barn Dance and fish & chip supper, with music by Pitchfork,on the evening of Saturday 30 January 2010. Further detailsin next months Link.

Village Hall MattersReg Charity 272385

Village Green VolunteersThe Volunteers will meet next on Saturday 17th October. Asit will be getting dark early please meet behind the VillageHall at 2.00 pm. Remember more hands make light work.

A Plea from Our Litter Warden.Please do not use the large blue bin beside the footballpavilion for general waste. It is solely for the use of our litterwarden who uses it for the contents of the bins and otherlitter he picks up from the village green and he often finds

that there is no space left for what he has collected.AllotmentsIf you wish to take your dog onto the allotments please keephim or her on a lead and clean up after them. Allotmentholders should not be left to do this. Thank you for yourcooperation.

Bruce Batting

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FUNERAL DIRECTORS &MONUMENTAL MASONS.

ALEXANDER & DRY

Twenty four hour service.

Pre-paid funeral plansavailable.

1 Seal Road, Basingstoke,RG21 7NQ

Tel: 01256 844663

Tel. 01256-882736 or 882368 Mob. 07836 626323


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Sherfield & District Gardening ClubNext Meeting:

19th October Village Hall 8.00pm Chrissie Clemson onWinter baskets and containers

For arrangements contact:

Linda on 882341 or Vanessa on 881760

Beat update September 2009.Speed enforcement: there are no new results.

Anti social behaviour: there were only 10 callsrelating to nuisance youths over the school holidays. Six inBramley, but not all at the same location. Three in Sherfieldon Loddon that related to specific events in the village. Oneat Mortimer West End. So, a good result.

Crime: business premises continue to be targeted. Theft ofcopper and laptops. Mini motos have also been stolen

recently. Pub car parks & theft from vehicles appears to be

on the increase again. PLEASE, if you are frequenting a pub,

do not leave anything of value in the vehicle. Leaving

laptops in the boot, believing they cant be seen, does not

mean they are safe.

October Beat Surgery Dates14th Oct Bramley Bakery 0900 to 110017th Oct Sherfield Shop 0900 to 110018th Oct Silchester village hall car park 1000 to 1200

WPC 504 Mandy JewellTadley Police Station07770 [email protected]

Police News

Page 31


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Page 32

THE SPINE TEAM

BRIGHTON HILL 466666

HOOK SURGERY 763888HAMPSHIRE CLINIC 473208

www.spineteam.co.uk

Integrated Chiropractic means:

Understand and take control of yourback pain.

Investigation

Explanation

Treatment

Rehabilitation

Liz MckinneyHair and Beauty

Therapist

Waxing, Manicure, Pedicure

Ear Piecing Aromatheropy

High Lights, Low Lights

Perms, Cuts & Styling

Telephone: 01256 811502

Mobile: 07867 570 577

Professional Face & Body Sugaring

A sweet alternative to waxing.

An effective method of

Semi-permanent hair removal

Also available

Holistic Massage, manicure and pedicure,

eyelash and eyebrow tinting.

Ladies only please.

Tel: Louise on

07867 897171 / 01256 334775

or visit

www.sugar-babe.co.uk


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Page 34

M. Elliott

BuildersFREE ESTIMATESNo job too small

Garden WallsPatios

ExtensionsDriveways

Block pavingStepsetc.

Telephone 01256 334233Mobile 07729263775


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Bramley Royal British Legion Branch MeetingOn Tuesday 8th September at 8.00 pm the members ofBramley and Sherborne St John Branches of The Royal BritishLegion met together in the Wellesley Suite of the WellingtonArms Hotel in Stratfield Turgis to hear from Mr Clem Keeble ofSherfield on Loddon. Clem belonged to The Paras and wasdropped into Normandy on D Day 1 (5th June 1944) at thestart of the allied invasion of France.

He gave a very interesting talk that was serious, sad andhumorous and was well received by the audience.He also included some snippets of his life after leaving theregular Army including his completion of the four day 100mile Nijmegen March at the age of 85! It is hoped that Clemwill consent to speak again at a future meeting.

Anyone interested in joining the Bramley Branch of The RoyalBritish legion is asked to contact the Chairman, Charles Lewison 01256 882537

Remembrance Day Road ClosureReading Road will be closed on RemembranceSunday, November 8th from 10.30am to 11.15amfrom the slip to Pound Meadow.

Page 35

The Royal British LegionBramley Branch (BR 1848)

SHERFIELD 0-5S NEARLY NEW SALESATURDAY 14

TH

NOVEMBER10.00am-1.00pm

Do you want to make some money by selling your qualitychildrens seconds?

Why not hire a table at the Sherfield 0-5s Sale?Contact Judith on 01256 883 551


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Page 36

Solar Water Heating Accredited Installer

Free Initial Survey and Estimate

Telephone: 01256 882309

PLUMBING & HEATING

OFTEC registered

Oil boiler installer

Unit 2 Berry Court Business Park

Bramley Road, L i t t le London

Tel: 01256 880044

Fax 01256 880046

Email : admin@pscservic es.co.uk


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Village 30 Scheme

Following a decision of Hampshire CountyCouncils Cabinet just before Christmas 2006

to follow new government guidance, it wasdecided to give all villages the opportunity tobe considered for 30 mph speed limits withintheir village boundaries and the immediate outskirts.

A scheme at Stratfield Saye has already been implementedand now schemes involving minor roads in Stratfield Turgisand Hartley Wespall are being considered.

If you live in Stratfield Turgis you should receive a letter with

this copy of The Link, giving an outline of the scheme andasking for comments.. If for any reason you dont receiveone please contact the chair, Sheila Campbell on 882351 oremail [email protected].

If you live in Hartley Wespall the matter will be discussed ata Special General Meeting. See the notice below.

HARTLEY WESPALL PARISH COUNCILNOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THERE WILL

BE A SPECIAL GENERAL MEETINGOF THE PARISH COUNCIL

AT SHERFIELD VILLAGE HALLAT 7.30 P.M. ON THURSDAY,THE 22ND OCTOBER 2009

TO CONSIDER THE INTRODUCTIONOF A 30 MILES PER HOUR SPEED LIMIT FOR

HARTLEY WESPALL.


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Page 38

Rewires, Fuseboxes,security lights

Garden lights, alarmsquotes free

[email protected]

0118 942 7553Mob 07856 478829


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Local LifeA series of articles about people who live and work in thisbeautiful area. This ones from a local author.

Page 39

Loddon Valley A Good Place To WriteDeer are regular visitors to our garden. Recently one reclined

against our hedge and chewed cud for almost anhour. Last Spring they ate 249 of the 250 tulips Idplanted.

We have a vegetable patch where I grow runnerbeans, butternut squash, and yellow courgettes. Ihave enough garlic hanging in the potting shed to

last us until Christmas.But what does any of that have to do with writing?

Our little cottage is the perfect place to write. I can look outof my office window between sentences and see delicateblackberry blossoms. I can go and make myself a cup of teaand watch the Nuthatch (with his impressive eye make-up).

But living here is more than just having pretty surroundingsin which to write. Everything I experience goes into my

writing. Growing vegetables helps me to learn patience(especially with slugs), and discipline. Writers need a lot ofthat.

Walking around the garden teaches me to notice things asingle fritillary under the apple tree, or a toads leathery skin.It all goes in, and composts away. It all goes into my stories.

Im very happy here. Our little cottage is truly a good placeto write.

Fiona Robyn is a novelist living in the LoddonValley and her latest novel is The Blue Handbag.Her blog is atwww.plantingwords.comand youcan find out more about her books atwww.fionarobyn.com.


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Page 40

GDancePolishing.com


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SHERFIELD ON LODDON

POST OFFICE &

STORES

Tel: 01256 882210

THE POST OFFICE NOW DOESROAD TAX,

TRAVEL INSURANCE,

PERSONAL LOANS,

CAR INSURANCE,

FOREIGN EXCHANGE ETC.

For a Warm Friendly Welcome

THE SHOP IN SHERFIELD-ON-LODDON

Selling a vast range of groceries including:

Local Bakery bread & Cakes: Market fresh fruit & veg.

Quality fresh meat & poultry: Excellent selection of Wine

Beer Spirits & Tobacco;

All at competitive prices

THE SHOP, Reading Road, Sherfield

Telephone: 01256 882234

Open: MondaySaturday 7.00 am to 7.00 pm

Sundays 9.00 am to 5.00 pm

Orders taken for Delivery


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CHANGING LANDSCAPESGarden design and clearance. Fencing/hedging. lawn cuttingplus gutter cleaning and repairs.Please call 01256 702705 or mobile 07765 153 569

Page 42

SMALLA

DVERTISEMENTS

LOCAL EXPERIENCED TAX ADVISERSelf Assessment Tax Returns + Arrears + Claims + Payroll +Self Employed + VAT Returns. Initial consultation free.Call 07920 112533 or email to [email protected]

PC SUPPORTFor upgrades, repairs, internet access and wireless problems,virus removal, data recovery, friendly advice and speedy helpin times of PC crisis call Ian on 07977 143310. 20 per hour.

GOLD LEAF DRIVER TRAINING. We guarantee a patient,friendly, reliable DSA (Driving Standards Agency) driving in-structor. www.goldleafdriving.co.uk, Phone 01256 812829, text07795 957664 or call Chris Horton on 01256 882426

PROFESSIONAL INTERIOR and EXTERIOR DECORATORFirst class job guaranteed. Over 30 years experience. No jobtoo small. For a free competitive estimate ring Ian on 01256882132 or mobile 07876021772

TRADITIONAL PLASTERING. ALL ASPECTS OF PLASTERINGFlatten old ceilings - Extensions - Conversions - Renovations.Insurance work undertaken - Small jobs welcome. For a freeno obligation quote please call Dave Ellery on 01256 354137or 07958670774

SALLYS FOOTWORKSReflexology for better health. Specialising in womans health,maternity and postnatal. Tel: 01256 882133 or 07796 908890www.sallysfootworks.co.uk

PKG PLUMBING and TILINGFriendly, reliable and very competitive. All plumbing and tiling

jobs welcome. No call charges. Free estimates. Tel: Paul 01256350386 or 07776421958. Email [email protected]

WEBSITE DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT & DELIVERYFor websites from a little as 25, backed up by a full manage-ment service. The web your way. Phone 07984033914.www.villagewebshop.co.uk


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SMALL ADVERTISEMENTS IN THIS MAGAZINE4 monthly for a maximum of 30 words.Space permitting. Requests are logged and dealt with in order.Contact Winston Bruce 01256 883277

DISPLAY ADVERTISEMENTS IN THIS MAGAZINEPrices depend on the size of your advertisement.Please contact Winston Bruce 01256 883277 [email protected] to discuss your requirements.

There is normally a waiting list of businesses requiring to advertisehere. Requests are logged and dealt with in order.

PC2IT ALL YOUR PC REQUIREMENTS.Networking: internet problems; virus removal; hardware &software faults; backup & data recovery. Free quotes, no fix nofee. Friendly and locally based. Call Glen on 07888644915

Page 43

PILATES CLASSESRun by chartered Physiotherapist. Small group sessions atSherfield Village Hall. Call Kate Varney on 01256 880201 or07809407585. Email [email protected]

BACK2FLAT PLASTERERPlastering. Artexing. Coving. insurance work. Free estimates.Fully qualified tradesman. For a friendly reliable service callSteven on 07765591008

A QUANTITY OF RECLAIMED PAVIORS for a drive or path.Colours, some brindle and some charcoal. No reasonableoffer refused. Buyer collects. To view tel 01256 882099.

PLUMBING & HEATINGEstablished local reliable company. From dripping taps tobathroom refurbishments. Gas Safe approved (Corgi), boilerservicing and replacements. Lady plumber available. Contact

Niall on 01256 818086 / 07774741021PART TIME EMPLOYMENT REQUIREDI have Post Office /Retail experience as well as a strong 25+years sales office(U.K. & Export) background with several bluechip companies. Please telephone 01256 882254

SMALLADVE

RTISEMENTS


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Page 44


Petra Jewellery

Established 1979

IndependentFamily Jewellers

www.petrajewellery.com

01256 355945

Viables Craft Centre, Basingstoke, RG22 4BJ

Full time childcare O-4 years.Free funded hours available for

over 3s.Situated in Pebbles Childrens

Centre, Chineham Park.E-mail:

[email protected]

Repairs & Alterations

Commission work

Free design consultations

Wedding andEngagement Rings

Fine diamond specialists

Melting down of old gold

ELLIOTTSLANDSCAPING

Tree Surgery

Stump Grinding

Hedge Cutting

Fencing

Decking

Power Washing

Turfing

Garden Maintenance

Peter Elliott 01256 883743

Mobile: 07725 749 644

Little

Pearls

Nursery

Tel:01256 462804 or01256 464750


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USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERSAllotments.

Basingstoke Gazette.

Bingo.

Brownies.

St. Leonards Church.

Breach Lane Chapel.

Catholic Church

Cricket Club

Evergreens.

Football (Junior)

Football (Seniors)

Happy Faces Playgroup

Loddon Players

Loddon Valley Link.

Lunch Club.

NWR.

Stratfield Saye P. Council.

Stratfield Turgis P. Meeting

Sherfield Parish Council

Police - Local beat officer

Police - Report an incident

Poppies.

Post OfficeSher. Community Care Grp

Sherfield Fete.

Sher. Dist. Gardening Club

Sherfield Show.

Short Mat Bowls.

Toddler Group 0-5s.

Tree Warden.

Village Grn. Volunteers.

Whist Drive.

Womens Institute

Village HallCaretaker/Bookings.

Management Committee

Fund Raising Committee

Bruce Batting

Chris Horton

Ursula Lambden

Sue Handasyde-Dick

Revd. Bob Politt

Geoff Belsham

Chris Russell

Father Vincent Harvey

Andy Stevens

Jean Berntsen

Fred Berntsen

Don Campbell

Peggy Hutchins

Chris Horton

See back pages of magazine

Helen Belsham

Gill Fearon

Penny Mayo

Sheila Campbell (Chair)

Ivan Gosden (Chair)

Jayne Hawkins (Clerk)

Mandy Jewell

Police Control Room

Natalie Larner

Doreen Tosswill

Nick Robinson

Linda Sycamore

Natalie Larner

Norman Stanley

Judith Sullivan

Geraldine House-Barklie

Bruce Batting

Jean Wright

Val Denny

Jan Martin

Bruce Batting

Alan Ball

882605

882426

882839

882337

882209

882534

01276 21469

465214

882414

882798

882798

882953

880903

882426

882534

882106

01189 332 379

01256 882351

01256 881007

01252 673 172

07770 471 655

0845 045 45 45

880075

882210882344

882722

882341

880075

881021

883551

882536

882605

882845

882410

882539

882605

883838

Please inform the Editor of changes to the above information


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Loddon Valley Link Management Committee

Simon Boase Tel: 01256 881250Andrias CottageSpanish GreenStratfield Turgis, RG27 0AD

Page 46


Chairman: Dr. Donald Dawson Tel. 01256 882379email: [email protected]

Deputy Chairman: Revd. Bob Politt Tel. 01256 882209email: [email protected]

Secretary: Esme Ward Tel. 01256 880503email: [email protected]

Hartley Rep.: Dr. John Williams Tel. 01256 882705email: [email protected]

Sherfield Park Rep: Chris Wright Tel: 01256 [email protected]

Stratfield Saye Rep: Germano Giugovaz Tel: 01189 332166Committee Member Claire Osborne Tel: 01256 324458and Assistant Editor: email: [email protected]

Committee Member Caroline Rowe Tel: 01256 395027& Roving Reporter: email: [email protected]

Editor Sheena Archer Tel: 01256 882099Dec/Jan & Feb. editions email: [email protected]

Editor: Brian Archer Tel: 01256 882099March/April editions email: [email protected]

Treasurer and Advertising.Winston BruceTel. 01256 88327718 Longbridge CloseSherfield on LoddonHook, RG27 0DQemail: [email protected]

All Advertising enquiries:Winston BruceFinal small ads. Deadlinefor November, isOctober 10th 2009.

Simon is editor for theNovember edition.The next copy deadlineis16th October 2009.email: [email protected]


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CHURCH OFFICERSRector: Reverend Bob Politt, Tel: 01256 882209Kindly Note: The Rectors day off is ThursdayAssistant Priest: Reverend Sammie Armstrong

Tel: 01189 816593Readers: Richard Elphick Tel. 01256 882860

Dr. John Williams Tel. 01256 882705

ST. LEONARDS CHURCH, SHERFIELD ON LODDONChurchwardens: Peter Gould Tel. 01256 882538

Peter Chessell Tel. 01256 478050Treasurer: Stephen Hemmings Tel.01256 882523Organists: Mike Abrams Tel. 01256 881188

Brian Archer Tel. 01256 882099

Peggy Willson Tel. 01256 880503

ST. MARYS CHURCH, STRATFIELD SAYEChurchwarden: Roy Best Tel. 01189 882422Treasurer: Robert Craig Tel: 01256 882253Organist: Fran Oliver Tel. 01189 268364ST.MARYS CHURCH, HARTLEY WESPALLChurchwardens: Pip Iles Tel. 01256 880559

Dr. John Williams Tel. 01256 882705

Treasurer: Michael Webster Tel. 01256 882413Organist: Dr. Gill Williams Tel. 01256 882705

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Documents

Loddon Valley Link 200910 - October 2009