SPOTLIGHT - DECEMBER 2004 & JANUARY 2005

 

THE SAMARITANS PURSE– OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD:

Mrs. Audrey McDonald is collecting shoe boxes from the Seend Benefice for Operation Christmas Child. The last collection date is 24th November and Mrs. McDonald would be glad to accept boxes at her home (1 Chestnut Drive, Bulkington) or if you will get in touch by telephone (828376) she will be happy to collect. If possible it would be appreciated if £2 could be added to assist with transport arrangements.

THANK YOU:

Glad Gibson wishes to thank friends, neighbours, Devizes Police and the CID Ladies for their concern and kindness following her recent burglary. All the cards, flowers and chocolates were very much appreciated.

VILLAGE CONCERT

The annual village concert will be held at 7.30p.m. in the W.I. Hall on Tuesday, 21st December. As usual there will be carol singing, the Serendipity Handbells, we hope for participation by children of Seend School and other forms of entertainment. Father Christmas is also due to put in an appearance. There will be refreshments and competitions during the interval.

Anybody who can play any form of musical instrument is invited to bring it along and join the orchestra for its once a year performance.

The evening is absolutely free and everybody is welcome.

SEEND MOTHERS UNION:

Seend Mothers Union do not have a meeting in December.
2nd December: Deanery Advent Communion at St. Nicholas Church, Bromham
at 10.30a.m.
8th December: Keevil Christmas Afternoon at 2.30p.m.
15th December: Melksham Carol Service at St. Andrew’s Church, 2.30p.m.

19th January: Seend A.G.M. Please members, do come. There will be a Bring & Buy stall.
26th January: Corporate Communion in Holy Cross at 9.45a.m.

SEEND W.I.:

On 13th October the Women’s Institute celebrated its 85th birthday in Seend with breakfast helpers, visitors and the Wilts. Federation Chairman, Mrs. Priscella Gray. The birthday cake was made and iced by Mrs. Shirley West, one of our W.I. members and was cut by our President, Mrs. Judith Biggs and Mrs. Priscella Gray.

After an excellent meal, a presentation was made to Desmond Edwards who has fried the bacon at Saturday morning breakfasts for 38 years. The figurine was a Pig with a Chef’s Hat and Frying Pan of cooked breakfast.
Mr. John Osbourne and friend entertained everyone with his delightful poems and songs.

At the November meeting, Mrs. Bridget Partridge gave a talk on making cards and quilling (paper rolling) resulting in making lovely greeting cards. The competition “Best wrapped Parcel” for Green Lane Hospital” was won by Mrs. Shirley West.

At the December meeting Mrs. Warren will give a talk entitled “It’s a funny way to earn a living”, The competition will be for a decorated box or tin.

12th January, 2005: Mr. D. Waters will give a talk entitled “The Reintroduction of The Bustard”. This is an Open Meeting and everyone is welcome.

Muriel Buckley.

Two Pumpkin Days for the Price of One:

Joe’d put it in Spotlight and put up the poster,
he’d arranged for the seeds to be sold
So on Sunday the twenty-fourth of October
We assembled, as we were told.

A few giant pumpkins arrived at the pub
And Mike’s pumpkin soup was enjoyed.
A sociable gathering formed quite a hub
And the bar staff were kept well employed.

Twas time for the judging, but no Pumpkin Joe,
Was this pumpkin day to be cursed?
At last he arrived – but what do you know -
In his diary it said ‘thirty-first’.

So the following Sunday we turned up again –
Pumpkin day number two – but I fear
Joe’s embarrassment could be greater than when
He took us to a place ‘closed last year!’

Anon.

SEEND GARDENING CLUB:

At our November meeting Robert Allwood gave a great many facts and fallacies, mostly given to him by his father, a member of the famous Allwood nursery, about all things horticultural.
Well done to all those who entered the competition “In the Pink”; they were all very attractive and different; the addition of Pinking shears was a good idea.

On 14th December, the speaker is Don Everitt, who will talk about “Colour in the Winter Garden”. The competition is a home made Christmas cracker.
At this meeting there will be wine, mince pies and shortbread, in addition to tea or coffee, which ever is your preference.

As Tony has retired from organising ‘Stay-away’ visits, the committee is contacting \n agent to plan a visit to France at the end of June, 2005, to include a visit to Monet’s garden at Giverny: there should be more information about this at our December meeting. We shall need your full support to get enough members and friends to make this viable, so please spread the word.

The first talk of the New Year, on 11th January, 2005, will be by Paul Templeton, who will speak about the “Relative Styles of historic gardens in Europe”. Members who came to Paul’s previous talk to the Club, will know that we can expect something out of the ordinary! The competition is for a flowering or foliage pot plant.
We wish all our members a Happy Christmas and enjoyable gardening in the New Year.

Joyce Brand.

THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION – Seend Branch:

ARMISTICE DAY: A group of 24 members and non-members gathered at the War Memorial at 1100hrs. On Thursday, 11th November, for a short time of silence and prayers in remembrance of those who died in the two world wars and subsequent hostilities. The prayers were led by the Reverend Julian Harford and the two minutes silence was observed.

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY: Twenty six members of the Legion paraded for the annual Remembrance Day service and, after wreaths had been laid at the War Memorial, they were led into church by their Standard Bearer, Brian Culverhouse. The service commenced with the reading of the names of those from the village who had died during the two world wars, read by our President, Peter Hicks, who also took the parade. This was followed by the two minutes silence, with the Last Post and Reveille being played by our Bugler, Derek Kimber, who has now been carrying out these duties for us for 37 years. The service was conducted by our Chaplain, The Reverend Freddie White.
After the service all members of the congregation were invited to the Social Club for light refreshments, and our thanks go to the Social Club staff for laying this on so well.

POPPY COLLECTION: The usual team of Poppy Sellers toured the village during the fortnight preceding Remembrance Day and thanks to the generosity of all those who subscribed, broke last years record collection with a total of £2,401.99p. Our thanks go to all the collectors, but especially to Anthony and Katharine Hodgkinson for organising and co-ordinating the whole event

BINGO NIGHT: Once again this was organised by Anthony Hodgkinson who, has said that this was his last year! It was well attended by approximately 40 people who all had a most enjoyable evening. Our thanks go to Anthony, and we hope we shall see him again next year. However, in case he means it this time, anyone who would be willing to take over from him with organising this event should contact him as soon as possible. Our thanks also go to all those generous people who donated prizes.

SEEND CHRISTMAS CONCERT:

Following on from a very successful Easter Workshop, a small group of children have been playing some of the hymns at Family Services. This group is hoping to play at the Village Concert in the W.I. Hall on Tuesday, 21st December at 7.30p.m. If there are any people out there (any age!) who would like to augment this group we shall be very pleased to welcome you. Please give me a ring so that I can get the music to you.

Liz Futter (828485).

BULKINGTON NEWS:

Bulkington Ladies: - October Murder Mystery Night.
This was a lovely evening – wine and cheese by candlelight while guessing the identity of the murderer. Thanks to Jan and Nikki for arranging it.

On Wednesday, 24th November we will be taking a trip to the American Museum in Bath to get an idea of how Christmas was celebrated in America in times gone by.

Our Christmas get-together will take place on Thursday, 16th December – more details to follow.

For more information, please phone Geraldine on 828664.

TRAIN RIDES TO SEE FATHER CHRISTMAS

Just under four weeks before Father Christmas arrives with his sack of toys for all those well behaved boys and girls. I am pleased to announce that special visits have been arranged locally on the Great Bulkington Railway for everyone to see Father Christmas and tell him exactly what they want to get on Christmas Day! You can book a train ride to see Father Xmas on the diesel or steam train on the 11th and 18th of December (both Saturdays) between 3 PM and approximately 7PM by ‘phoning
Jan Flynn (at the ticket office) on 01380 828 248.

Fares payable in advance, (All profits to the village hall charity). Children £5.00 Adults £3.00. All cheques payable to BVHRF. Although casual Guests will be welcome – Regretfully, train rides for casual visitors cannot be guaranteed. Make sure that you wear warm clothes- it can be very cold in Lapland! After disembarking at Father Christmas’s Grotto one of his Fairies and an Elf will take the children to meet Father Christmas. The children will be given a suitable present value about £2:50. The happy excited guests will then be escorted to the nice warm Village Hall to see the large decorated Xmas Tree and the ticket holding adults can enjoy a glass of mulled wine, wine or beer. Coffee, tea, hot mince pies, crisps etc will also be available. A large ‘Dulux Dog’ will be raffled in the hall on 18th December.

Boxing Day – Regardless of the weather we will have our traditional Run from 1 PM until around 3 PM – Everybody is welcome –wrap up warm – Burn off some of the calories from all that Christmas stodge!

Nev Boulton, Head Porter

BULKINGTON MOTHERS UNION: Wednesday, 8th December, 2.30p.m. at Keevil Village Hall. We invite you to join us for our “Christmas Afternoon” with seasonal readings, poetry and carols, followed by an excellent M.U. tea and Grand Xmas Raffle.

Come along and enjoy a taste of Christmas. Everyone most welcome.

Wednesday, 26th January, 2005 – 11.30a.m. at Manor Farm, Keevil. Holy Communion and hot lunch.

BULKINGTON PARISH COUNCIL:

The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, 12th January, 2005 at 8.15p.m. in Bulkington Village Hall.

CHURCH FLOWERS:
Sunday 5th & 12th December: Mrs. Difford.
Sunday, 19th & 26th December. Mrs. Raby-Cox.
Sunday, 2nd & 9th January. Mrs. Jones.
Sunday, 16th, 23rd & 30th January. Mrs. Elliott. .
CHURCH CHRISTMAS WINDOWS:
The Candlelight Carol Service is to be held on Friday, 17th December at
7.00p.m. at Christ Church Bulkington.

I suggest we decorate the Church during the week leading up to the Candlelight Service in readiness for the Christmas Services.
Andie Elliott (828277).

COME DANCING: - Line Dancing, in Bulkington Village Hall on Mondays 7.00p.m. – 9.30p.m. Only £3 for an evening of fun and exercise.

CAROL SINGING IN BULKINGTON:

Once again our happy band of Carol Singers plan to walk the Village bringing music to your ears and festive cheer to our doorstep on Monday, 20th December, starting at 7.00p.m. at the Church.

We welcome anyone of any age to come and join us – the more the merrier, they say! Carol sheets provided, but please bring along your torches or lanterns. Collection is in aid of Children’s Charity.

Finally, may I wish all Spotlight readers a Very Happy Christmas and all good wishes for the New Year. Back in 2005!

Andie Elliott.

The Late Mrs. Rose Pearce:

The family of Mrs. Rose Pearce would like to express their thanks to all friends and neighbours in Seend who attended the funeral service in the Church of the Holy Cross on Monday, 15th November. It was very much appreciated.

A CHRISTMAS WISH:
This year, instead of buying and sending many Christmas Cards, Sandra Collins has donated equivalent money to Charity. Now, via Spotlight, she would like to wish all of her friends in the Benefice a very happy Christmas and a happy and successful New Year.

Should, in future, other Spotlight readers wish to follow Sandra’s example, Spotlight will be pleased to try to comply with their wishes.

 

More alleged Church notices on the “I did not really mean to write the following :

“For those of you who have children and don’t know it, we have a nursery downstairs”.

“The ladies of the Church have cast off clothing of every kind and may be seen in the Church basement on Friday”.


NEW STUDY OF SEEND CONSERVATION AREA:

Kennet District Council has commissioned Conservation Area Character Assessment for Seend which is intended to provide guidance for the preservation and enhancement of the village.

The purpose of this study is to identify and record the special qualities of Seend that make up its architectural and historic character. The village has seen many changes in the last 50 years and it is inevitable that that process will continue. It is hoped that the illustrated Statement will ensure that the character of the village will be protected and enhanced for the benefit of this and future generations.

The study which will include information on the origins and development of Seend, its architecture and landscape, is being undertaken by an independent consultant and is intended for all those with an interest in the village or those undertaking work on its buildings, landscape, streets or public spaces. A draft Statement will be produced for public comment.

The Parish Council welcomes this initiative by the District Council and intends to hold a meeting to allow villagers to express their views.

WEA: SEEND BRANCH.

First, the Branch AGM will take place on Monday, 10th January, 2005 in the upstairs room of Seend Social Club, Rusty Lane at 7.30p.m. After the formal business, it is intended to choose subjects for future study. Please come along, hopefully there will be some interesting suggestions, and we can all join in the discussion. Further education has become part of village life and has continued to thrive over many years.

The next series of meetings is entitled "Churches of Wessex”. The course will start by examining the settings of churches, before moving on to develop particular themes across the region’s churches. There are some fascinating buildings and places to explore, and the class field visits (held on Saturdays) should help to demonstrate a little of the variety within the local area. Ass you need to enjoy this course is enthusiasm to learn more. All lectures will be fully illustrated and will cover source materials such as books and the internet to encourage you to find out more information for yourself.

Wessex: W.Sussex, Hampshire, Berkshire, Wiltshire, Dorset and Somerset.

Proposed Syllabus:
1. Introduction to the delights of Wessex Churches – their landscape and
historical settings.
2. Styles, materials, towers.
3. Dedications and Saints.
4. Wessex people associated with Wessex Churches.
5. Field visit 1.
6. Field visit 2.
7. Redundant Churches: modern additions.
8. Problems of, and what prospects for our Parish Churches?
6 weekly meetings of 1.5 hours. 2 field visits of 2.5 hours.
Beginning Monday, 17th January, 2005: 7.30 – 9.00p.m. in the upstairs room, Seend Social Club. Tutor: Brian Woodruffe. Fee: £32.

Heather & Don Hyde.

THE VILLAGE SCRAPBOOK:

In 1954 a National Competition was held by the Women’s Institute to compile a “Village Scrapbook”. The Seend W.I. entry was “Highly commended”. Since that time we have updated the scrapbook twice and it now comprises 6 portfolios and 6 files which are kept safely at the County Records Office. The term ‘scrapbook’ does not really do justice to this fascinating record of the village. Many people have referred to the books for interesting and valuable information for various projects. The most notable example was probably Mr. Edward Bradby when he wrote the book “Seend – A Wiltshire Village Past and Present”.
The time has come to update again. We have a number of cuttings from newspapers, leaflets, Spotlight, etc. but we are appealing for more items and photos of any interesting events. All Village organisations are asked to look through their records and let us have anything appropriate. Copies can be made of most things if you do not want us to keep the originals.

We hope to make a start on the update next spring so, if you have anything you consider suitable, please contact one of the Scrapbook team – Mrs. May Ferris (Tel:01380 828371), Mrs. Pam Hillier (01380 828494), Mrs. Margaret White (828525) and Mrs. Betty Smith (01225 705492).

We look forward to getting a good response to this appeal. It does not matter how old the material is – very often it enables us to fill in some blanks in our previous records.

Thank you in anticipation of your help. Betty Smith – Co-ordinator.

SEEND & DISTRICT RAMBLERS:

18TH September: 28 walkers took part in a special commemorative walk for the late founder member and Chairman, Bob Godwin, and member – Iris Scrivener. The five miles started from Barbary Castle Country Park near Wroughton, and took us along the Ridgeway experiencing wonderful views of the county. Refreshments in the glorious sunshine were taken at the Castle Café, Ridgeway Farm. A sum of £156 in donations for Dorothy House was raised. Thanks to everyone who participated, and to our leaders, Ron and Penny England.

Weekend Dreak in Weymouth – 15th/16th/17th October:
14 members took part in this ‘break’ basing ourselves at the ‘Fairhaven’ on the esplanade in Weymouth, for a very comfortable and entertaining two nights. Two walks had been organised from Abbotsbury and Osmington respectively, they were walked in good weather and enjoyed by all.

31st October: 11 walkers did a distance of 8 miles, starting from Calne, covering Bowood, Derry Hill and Studley, walking along the old railway line. Leaders were Ron and Rita Apted to whom we thank for a most enjoyable time.

Forthcoming Walks:
Monday, 27th December: Meet in Rusty Lane at 10.00a.m. for a reasonably shorter walk of 5/6 miles, so, therefore, allow 2 to 3 hours. Bring the usual light refreshment should you desire.

Saturday, 1st January, 2005: Meet in Rusty Lane at 10.00a.m. for a shorter local walk of 5 miles. Leaders: Pam and Derek Chapman.

Sunday, 23rd January: Meet in Rusty Lane at 9.30a.m. Location for walk to be decided. Leader: Gerald Salter.

Saturday, 19th February: Meet in Rusty Lane at 10.00a.m. for a reasonably local walk of no more than 6 miles. Leaders: Jill Godwin and Marion Salter.

With yet another Christmas and New Year upon us, I would like to convey through ’Spotlight’ my sincere gratitude to everyone who have taken part in our walks and other events we have organised throughout 2004, and wish every single one of you a Very Happy Christmas and New Year.

Lin Salter.

RURAL ARTS WILTSHIRE:

The next Rural Arts event will be in April. We’re really ringing the changes, this time it’s a duo of storytellers called ‘Spindle Wayfarer‘. Their stories appeal to both adults and older children. Watch out for full details in the Spring.

SLEEPING BEAUTY:

Rehearsals are well under way for Seend Fawlty Players’ 26th panto on 17th – 19th February next, and it’s looking good! If you’re fond of fun, frogs and fairies, then this is the show for you. So, keep the dates free and look out for details of where to get tickets in the New Year.

PANTO REFRESHMENTS:

Is there anyone out there – whether already involved in the village pantomime or not – who would be happy to take on the co-ordination of interval refreshments for the three panto performances each year? Basically, it involves liaising with the
W.I. and the Mothers Union, who normally cover one night each, and then finding a team (from a list of previous helpers) to cover the third night. If you want to know more, ring Tessa on 828617.

SEEND SOCIAL CLUB:

Make sure that you enjoy the festive season with Seend Social Club.

WHAT‘S ON: Quiz Night – Saturday, 4th December, 2004:
Pit your wits against quiz master Graham for a fun night out. First prize £80 – definitely worth a go!!! Teams up to 4. Entry fee £10 per team. Come along and test your knowledge! Starts 8.00p.m. sharp.

Christmas Bingo – Saturday, 11th December:
Eyes down for a night of festive fun and prizes. Starts 8.00p.m. sharp. Just turn up and try your luck.

Christmas Draw – Friday, 17th December:
A whole host of festive prizes - come along for the excitement of the draw and see if you win. Start buying those draw tickets now – 50p. Each and come along for a great night of fun. Approximately 9.30p.m. start, but come along and have a drink or two first.

Boxing Day – 12.30p.m. onwards:
After a hectic Christmas Day, come along and have a relaxing few hours with your family at Seend Social Club. In the company of friends and family, as well as Mr. BJ, chill out and enjoy the day. Accompanied children very welcome. (Non members must be signed in).

New Year‘s Eve at Seend Social Club – Get ready to party:
After the fantastic response we received from those who partied this New Year in, arrangements are already in place for New Year’s Eve 2004 for you to pop those party poppers, burst those balloons and throw those streamers. Music for all tastes provided by Galaxy Light and Sound. Hopefully bigger and better – it’s the place to be, so make sure you’re there!
Tickets £6 to include a light supper, available from Seend Social Club
(01380 828796) or Richard Todhunter (01380 828730). 8.30p.m. ‘til late.

LOOKING AHEAD:
Single Snooker Competition: Don’t forget to get your name up on the list which will be available early in the New Year to challenge for the title of Seend Social Club Singles Snooker Champion. Competition will start in February.

Panto Time – Thursday, 17th February to Saturday, 19th February, 2005:
Seend Social Club is proud to host Seend Fawlty Players adaptation of Sleeping Beauty – it promises to be another magnificent production. Tickets on sale in the New Year.

 

 

Spotlight Editor: Mrs Lilian Smallshaw - Telephone: 828540
Page Last Updated: 18 Feb 2005

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