jan issue of the weston parish news

WPN FEBRUARY 12_Layout 1 24/01/2012 13:54 Page 2

weston parish newsFEBRUARY 2012

50p


THE PARISH CHURCH OF HOLY TRINITY, WESTONPATRON: Alice Cherry – Weston Manor (790325)

Vicar: The Vicarage, 14 Munts Meadow, Weston, SG4 7AE

[email protected]

Churchwardens: Pam Blackburn – Cherry Trees, Fore Street (790536)

John Cherry – Weston Park, Flat 1 (790073)

Secretary to PCC: Judith Evans – 2 Maiden Cottages, Maiden Street (790620)

Treasurer to PCC: Diane Gwilt – 3 Lannock Farm Cottages, Hitchin Rd (790660)

Organist: Hilary Bailey – 3 Mill Ground (790586)

Choir Director: Michael Attwood – [email protected]

Verger: Alice Cherry – Weston Manor (790325)

Tower Captain (Bell Ringers): Richard Clements – 9 Friars Road (790421)

WESTON PARISH NEWSEditor: Val Cansick – Dovecote Barn, Howells Farm, Halls Green, Weston, Herts. SG4 7DZ

Tel: 01462 790712 e-mail: [email protected]

Asst Editor /Designer: Sharon Hale – Fairclough Hall Cottage, 7 Halls Green, Weston, Herts. SG4 7DP

Tel: 01462 790483 e-mail: [email protected]

Distribution: Bridget Jones – (790489) – [email protected]

Diary / Coming events: Marian Potter – Woodvine Cottage, Damask Green Road (790424)

Business & Personal Advertising: Please contact Val Cansick or Sharon Hale

VILLAGE REPRESENTATIVES AND ORGANISATIONSMP: Oliver Heald – Tel: 01763 247640 e-mail: [email protected]

County Councillor: Tony Hunter – Tel: 01763 245237

District Councillor: Steve Jarvis – Tel: 01438 727122

Parish Council Chairman: Tim Moody – Tel: 01462 790577

Parish Council Clerk: Lorraine Ellis – Weston Parish Council, Darnalls Hall, Weston, Herts. SG4 7AL

e-mail: [email protected] – tel: 07828 033006

Weston Primary School: Headteacher – Miss E. Shaw

School Secretary: Alison Sharp (790317) FoWS: Nicky Ward – 01438 220250

Afternoon Nursery: Ruth Prime (790546) WVN Chair: Lisa Forster – 01462 790160

Village Hall Bookings: Tel: 07935 736403 e-mail: [email protected]

Youth Club: Jan Wall (790657) Weston Art Group: Sheila Bladen (01438 364909)

Diamond Club: Angela Walter (790447) Luncheon Club: Graham Wheatley (790367)

Flower & Vegetable Society: Olive Sainsbury (790316) Art Classes: Tess Thorpe (790525)

Patchwork & Quilting: Michele Clarke (790577) Bridge Group: Sheila Bladen (01438 364909)

Music Society: Felicity Lowe (790573) Ladies Badminton Club: Michele Clarke (790577)

Music with Mum: Amanda Brosnan (07849 851144) Pilates: Sally (01438 226717)

Parish Paths Partnership: Judith Evans (790620) Strength/Balance: Maggie (790203)

Weston Allotment Field Mike Renney, Chairman: 01462 790695 - [email protected]

Association Committee (WAFAC): Claire Coghlan, Secretary 01462 790872 - [email protected]

Cricket Club: Marcus Peckham (734136); Philip Stevens (790240)

Weston Football Club: Kevin Beard (790834); Will Pugh (07912 318503)

Weston Rugby Club: Dave King – 07881-822460

Tennis Club: www.weston-tennis.org.uk Youth Football Club: Jenny Bergman (790507)

Oil Orders: Karen Pedder (790781) – [email protected]

Police: Non emergency number – Tel: 101

Local issues: PC Paul Marina – Tel: 01438 757924 [email protected]

PCSO: Amy Rainbird – Tel: 01438 757935 [email protected]

WPN is published by Weston Parochial Church Council and printed by Graphix Design & Print Ltd, Halls Green, WestonIt is printed onto FSC (Forestry Stewardship Council) credited papers, more environmentally friendly than recycled materials;


church diary – for januaryAlso includes St Mary the Virgin - Clothall, St Mary - Rushden, All Saints - Sandon & St Mary - Wallington

5th Sunday 8.00am Holy Communion - Weston - Teddy Faure Walker9.30am Family Communion - Wallington11.15am Matins – Rushden

7th Tuesday 7.30pm First Tuesday Home Group - Weston. Contact Jennie Bowell 01462 790582

12th Sunday 9.30am Parish Communion - Clothall11.00am Parish Communion - Weston - Paul Lanham11.15am All Age Worship - Rushden11.15am Matins - Sandon6.00pm Sung Evensong - Weston - David Gunn

15th Wednesday 7.45pm PCC Meeting – Jennie Bowell’s

16th Thursday 2.30pm Prayer Group – Weston. Contact Jennie Bowell 01462 790582

19th Sunday 9.30am Parish Communion - Sandon10.00am Matins - Weston - David Ginn11.00am Parish Communion - Weston - Paul Lanham11.15am Village Praise - Wallington

ASH WEDNESDAY 7.00pm Ash Wednesday Service – Sandon22nd Wednesday 7.30pm Ash Wednesday Service – Weston - Carol Kimberley

26th Sunday 9.30am Parish Communion – Rushden11.00am Parish Communion/Choir - Weston - Paul Lanham11.15am Matins - Clothall11.15am URC Service - Sandon6.00pm Sung Evensong - Weston - David Gunn

27th Monday 7.30pm Diocese of St Albans Lent Course – See inside for details

PLEASE NOTE: 1st Sunday of the month until further notice – there will be no Children’s Church in Weston, also no other 11.00am service arranged for this day.

MIDWEEK HOLY COMMUNION SERVICES2nd Thursday of the month ~ Sandon NOT during vacancy11.00am Tea/Coffee -followed by Holy Communion at the home of Dawn & Gillian’s house‘Alwyns’, Roe Green SG9 0QG

Every Friday in term time ~ Weston NOT during vacancy9.00am Tea/Coffee – Vicarage, followed by Holy Communion 9.30am All are welcome

AT CHURCH – TUESDAY – Choir practice – 8.00pmTHURSDAY – Bell Ringing practice (Juniors) – 7.00pm – (Seniors) – 7.45pm

URC – United Reformed Church, PCC – Parochial Church Council

During recordings in church there is no access to the church and please avoid any noise in the churchyard.Thank you. RECORDING DATES: None to date. For updates please check Pew Sheet. (For more information please contact Alice Cherry).

Water colour prints of Holy Trinity Church by Keith Hornblower for. £50 per print. £40 of the proceeds go to the Church and £10 to Keith to cover the printing cost. For more information please contact JanFewell (Administrator) via email [email protected] or Tel: 01462 790330


village diary – for FEBRUARYPLEASE CONTACT MARIAN POTTER – 01462 790424 – [email protected]

7th Tuesday Waste Bin Collection

9th Thursday Parish Council Meeting - 8.00pm – Village Hall RR

Mobile Library – 11.45 - 12.45pm – Village Pond

11th Saturday WVN – Quiz Night – 7.30pm – Village Hall – See inside for details

13th Monday WPS/EYU/WVN – Half Term

14th Tuesday VALENTINE’S DAY

Recycle Bin Collection

15th Wednesday DEADLINE FOR WESTON PARISH NEWS LETTERS

17th Friday LAST COPY DATE FOR WESTON PARISH NEWS

20th Monday Back to School

21st Tuesday Waste Bin Collection

23rd Thursday Mobile Library – 11.45 – 12.45pm – Village Pond

25th Saturday FOWS – Bob’s Balls Bingo Night – 6.30pm – School Hall

– See inside for more details

28th Tuesday Recycle Bin Collection

PLEASE NOTENo Diamond Club or Flower and Vegetable Society meets this month

BIN COLLECTION AS PER NHDC WASTE/RECYCLING COLLECTION CALENDARFor information about mobile library services please phone: 0300 123 4049 (Mon-Fri 08.00 to 20.00, Sat 09.00 to 16.00)

• Bridge Group – 3.00 - 5.00pm – Village Hall RR Monday Afternoons• Badminton – 8.00 - 9.00pm – Village Hall Monday Evenings• Art Group – 10.00 - 1.00pm – Village Hall Tuesday Mornings• Taekwondo – 7.00 - 8.30pm – Village Hall Tuesday Evenings• Ladies Badminton – 6.00 - 7.00pm – Village Hall Tuesday Evenings• Rugby Club Training – 7.00pm – Recreational Ground Tuesday Evenings• Music with Mum – 9.15 - 10.00pm – Village Hall Wednesday Mornings• Strength & Balance Class – 11.00 - Midday – Village Hall Wednesday Mornings • Luncheon Club – 12.00 - 1.30pm – Village Hall RR Wednesday Afternoons• Youth Club – 6.30 - 8.00pm – Village Hall Wednesday Evenings • Fitness Club/Pilates – 8.15 - 9.15pm – Village Hall Wednesday Evenings

Entries welcome!


village diary – for january cont.• Tennis Club www.weston-tennis.org.uk • Cricket Club – Adult & Junior• Football Club – Adult & Junior

RR – Reading Room, WPS – Weston Primary School, EYU – Early Years Unit, WVN – Weston Voluntary Nursery, FOWS – Friends of Weston School

WPN February 2012 5

ANNOUNCEMENTS

R.I.P. – Peter Dines, Toby Pryor, Robert Sheridan and Ray Williams

Flower & Vegetable SocietyFollowing the sad death of Graham Sainsbury in December, we need a treasurer.

If you feel you could do this or would like more details, please phone 790417.

oil order

I will be placing an order for oil on 14th February (minimum order 500L). Please let me knowBEFORE then if you wish to be included.

Subsequent orders will be, March, April and June 2012.

Please make sure I have your up-to-date details, including e-mail address if applicable.

Karen Pedder 790781 ([email protected])


I’m afraid it is going to be a while until we get a new Vicar for a variety of reasons that aretoo boring to talk about, but rest assured that we are working on it frantically behind thescenes. Meanwhile, Church life goes on. There are almost all the regular services, as you cansee from the Church Diary in these pages. If there isn’t a service to suit, there’s always theoption of popping over to Clothall or one of the other Parishes in our Benefice, or indeedmaking the Pilgrimage down the hill to Baldock.

With Lent looming our thoughts turn to purification. First job is to clean up the village, theParish Council has organised a Village Green and roadside litter picking morning on Saturday11th Feb from 10 till 1, as advertised elsewhere in the magazine. Please try and find time to come and help clear as many of the approach roads to the village as possible; the more volunteers we have the more we can do. It really makes a difference, the litter is sodepressing to the spirit and it is actually great fun picking it up with an enthusiastic team.

Once we’ve got the outside clean, then it’s time for buffing up your own spirit. The 22nd Febis Ash Wednesday, which will be marked by a 7.30pm Service in Church taken by CarolKimberley, our outgoing Rural Dean. Then after that, starting on the 27th is the Lent Coursewhich we are sharing with Clothall, Rushden, Sandon and Wallington. This is also advertisedin the magazine and is a great chance to mix spiritual growth with getting to know somedelightful people from the other parishes.

On another sort of growth, and nothing to do with the Church, we started work on the‘straw bale house’ at Warrens Green. We’ve got the foundations in now ready to take an oak frame shell which will support the roof and straw bale walls. The oak we cut out ofBroadimedes before Christmas, milled in January in the farmyard and it has now gone to be jointed ready for assembly soon (a technical builder’s expression, soon means probablybefore Christmas). I will keep you updated. Anyone interested to know more, get in touch.

John Cherry

a churchwarden writes...

PEW SHEETInformation about church events and beyond, i.e. weddings, baptisms, funerals,

prayer list and special announcements.If you would like to receive the pew sheet electronically on a weekly basis please contact

Jan Fewell via Email: [email protected] or Tel: 01462 790330

If you know someone who would like to be included in our prayers for the sick, please contact the Churchwardens or Alice Cherry


WPN February 2012 7

notes from pcc meetingheld at 7.45pm on Wednesday 11th january 2012

Pastoral MeasureThe feedback from the consultation was considered at the meeting of the Diocesan Mission andPastoral Committee on 8th December. Following discussion, the Committee agreed to amend theproposals as follows:

• To re-name the proposed benefice of ‘Sandon, Wallington, Rushden with Clothall and Weston’as the benefice of ‘Clothall, Rushden, Sandon, Wallington and Weston’ (i.e. to list the parishes inalphabetical order)• To designate the Team Vicarage in Weston as the parsonage house of the new benefice• To transfer the parsonage house of the benefice of Sandon, Wallington and Rushden withClothall to the DBF for diocesan purposes

The amended proposals were sent to the Bishop for consideration. The Bishop approved the pro-posals and a draft Pastoral Scheme has now been sent to the Church Commissioners for ‘valida-tion’. (This involves the Commissioners checking that the Scheme is in the correct form, legal, andthat due process with regard to local consultations has been followed

FinanceRichard Clements attended the meeting to give a presentation on the church finances and toadvise us of what we need to consider when deciding on spending on new projects. The PCC isvery grateful to him for focusing our minds on the issues.

EventsNewcomers’ party 6pm – 8pm 18th May at the Park.Harvest supper end of September or beginning of October.

Quinquennial worksThe specification for repairs to the external walls has now been reviewed by members. An estimateof costs will be obtained for the next meeting. The next Quinquennial inspection has to take placein 2012.

Collection of toiletriesGill Clements is collecting toiletries for the Marylebone Project.

Annual Church MeetingsThe Annual Meeting of Weston Parishioners for the election of churchwardens will be held inchurch after Evensong at 7pm on Sunday 25th March. It will be followed at approximately 7.10pmby the Annual Parochial Church Meeting.

Next PCC Meeting: 7.45pm on 15th February 2012 Judith Evans – PCC Secretary


8 WPN February 2012

Holy Trinity Church Outward GivingEach year the PCC decides which organisations to make donations to. 2011’s budgetedamount has been given to the following:

Latin Link (Hazel and Martin Frost) 100Shelterbox (disaster relief) 590New Zealand (earthquake fund) 500Weston Diamond Club 60Garden House Hospice 100Luncheon Club (Weston) 250BRAVE 100The Sanctuary 75Christian Solidarity Worldwide 75Multiple Sclerosis Society (N Herts Branch) 75Riding for the Disabled (Stevenage Branch) 75Total 2,000

Hazel and Martin continue to work in Argentina with Latin Link. We gave to the Bishop’s appeal for New Zealand and also Shelterbox earlier in the year.

BRAVE is our Deanery’s sponsorship of Christian youth workers in local schools. The Sanctuary inHitchin provides shelter and support for homeless men and Christian Solidarity Worldwide supportsmen and women imprisoned for their faith.

In addition various amounts were collected at Church services and sent to charities - £123 inSeptember was sent to the Bishop’s Harvest Appeal, and £52 in November was sent to the British Legion Poppy Fund.

As the Church’s income has fallen over the past few years, we have reduced the amount we are planning to take out of funds this year and are hoping to hold events to raise money for specific causes.

Jennie BowellPCC Outward Giving Co-ordinator


Dear All,Please don’t worry; I am not going to write every single month, but only this last time to thank you very much for the many new home and new Job cards, Christmas and New year’s greetings. I receivedso many cards that I have to say thank you collectively and apologise for not writing to each of you individually.

I had my welcome service at All Saints Church in Staplehurst on the 24th November. I hadabsolutely no idea what to expect and who might make the long journey from Hertfordshire toStaplehurst to “give me away” to my new parish. About half an hour before the service, I was inthe midst of my run through of the service with the Bishop, and every time I looked up anotherfront pew was filled with familiar faces. I was absolutely thrilled to find that a whole coach loadfrom all five parishes had turned up and happily filled the six front rows. This really was a lovelysurprise and made me quite tearful to have to say goodbye for a second time. But I know you have not gone back home without leaving your legacy. My new parish has been well briefed onthat night about what Silke is like and that she likes dining and wining. Believe me, for this reasonI have not stopped to do so and every time I raise my glass it is with my love and thanks to you.

Cheers, Happy New Year, Yours Silke

message from silke...

The 5 Parishes within the new Benefice plan to run the above course. It will be a chanceto get to know one another better and to focus on material prepared by the Diocese, itis easy to use and poses questions for discussion and ideas for action. Meetings will takeplace in peoples homes with the first one being on Monday 27th February at 7.30pm.

If you would like more information please call Helen on 01763 284113 or e-mail [email protected] the venue will be decide on the number of people whoshow an interest.


10 WPN February 2012

Do you have more bath products than you know what to do with?

We are collecting toiletries, socks, gloves, scarves, hair brushes, purses, notebooks and pensfor the Marylebone Project in London, run by the Church Army.

The project gives hope to homeless women in London providing beds, meals, washing facilities and support to get back to independent living.

Women may come to the project because of domestic violence, family breakdown, mentalhealth issues, or seeking asylum. Many arrive with few belongings having experienced traumaand suffering. Items given for the appeal can help women feel better about themselves andtheir circumstances, building hope for the future.

Please bring your gifts to Church or leave them with Gill at 9 Friars Road before the end of February. They will be delivered to the Project

A small gift can make a big difference.

Weston ChurchMarylebone Project Appeal


WPN February 2012 11

COMING EVENTSMARCHSunday 4th – Veteran Cycle Club – Vintage Bicycles around Weston

– see inside for more details.

Saturday 17th – Weston Music Society, Concert – Piatti String Quartet – 7.30pm – Church

Sunday 25th – Church Annual General Meeting – 7.00pm (After Evensong)

APRILSaturday 21st – FOWS/WVN – Ladies Pamper Evening – Village Hall

– More details to follow

MAYSaturday 12th – Weston Music Society, Concert – Tetra Quartet (Guitars)

– 7.30pm – Church

Friday 18th – Newcomers Party – 6.00 - 8.00pm – Weston Park

4th JUNE – VILLAGE DIAMOND JUBILEE CELEBRATION

DON’T FORGET TO CONFIRM/INFORM US OF YOUR EVENTS.

BOOK YOUR DATE IN THE VILLAGE DIARY, TO CHECK AVAILABILITY & AVOID CLASHES!

The Cricketers PubSATURDAY 11th FEBRUARY

Evening of romance with a wonderful 3 course meal and a glass of Kir Royale for just £19.50.

Please look on our website or Facebook for menu!



CALLING ALL LITTER-PICKERS ANDA GREEN TEAM

THIS YEAR WE ARE MEETING ON THE GREEN 10.00AM - 1.00PM,

SATURDAY 11TH FEBRUARY TO TIDY ROUND THE POND AND

LITTERPICK OUR ROADS. PLEASE COME AND HELP IF YOU CAN.

BRING GARDENING GLOVES IF YOU HAVE THEM

AND BIN-LINERS FOR RUBBISH.

STOP PRESSThe Village Hall Committee has announced that

Phase 2 of the refurbishment will begin in early February,hopefully to be complete in time for the Jubilee celebrations.

More information is on our website: www.wvh.org.uk.



Fancy Festooning your Frontage this June?

Don’t delay in thinking about ideas for the Festoon Your Frontage competition at this year’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations. The best-decorated house in the village

will win a bottle of champagne, so look out for tubs, hanging baskets and bulbs to make your house look a right, royal sight.

Or, is parading down Fore Streeton a float more your thing?

We invite any club, group or society to enter the float competition. With themes based on the decades of the Queen’s reign this allows scope for anyone to relive their youth in colourful or embarrassing ways and give us all lots of amusement in the process.

Thinking caps on please!

Watch this space for more news of Diamond Jubilee preparations.



weston school improvementWeston is lucky that it has a vibrant and popular village school. However, the 100 plus year oldbuildings are now showing their age. The School Governors have to make plans to make sure thatthe school has buildings and finances that will allow it to continue for many years to come.However this is done it will be an expensive process and the Governors are keen to explain the current situation and hear ideas from as many people as possible before any decisions are made.

Please come to a meeting at the school on Thursday 1st March at 7:30pm to help the Governorssolve this problem.

It would assist the agenda for the meeting if questions could be submitted in advance to theChairman of Governors by email to, [email protected] by 27th Feb. This doesnot, of course, preclude questions on the night.

This is your school so don't hesitate to let us know what you think and please come to themeeting at the school on 1st March at 7:30pm.

notices

Weston: A Village Album 1900 - 2000Over the past few months I have received a number of queries about whether my book is still available and outlets. I’m pleased to say that copies are still available from Beryl’s in Fore Street and David's Bookshop in Letchworth, as well as from me.

Since publication at the end of 1999 sales have raised over £2,000 profit which has gone towardsVillage Hall maintenance and projects.

Those new to the village (and some of longer residence) may not know of the book. As the namesuggests it is primarily a photograph album of events, people and places during the last century.There is an excellent seven page Historical Background researched and written by Margaret Darby(now Du Boulay). The book is hardback and priced at £9.95.

Judith Evans 790620


Visit the historic garden at Benington Lordship this February to see the spectacular display of snowdrops in the dry moat and around the castle ruins. This stunning setting hasover 100 named varieties of snowdrops, as well as hellebores and winter flowering shrubs.

Hot soup, tea and cakes. Free parking.Open every day 4-26 February 2012, 12-4pm.

Admission £5.00 (conc £4.00 but not on Sundays). Under 12s free.

01438 869668 or www.beningtonlordship.co.ukEntrance off Benington village green, 3 miles east of Stevenage.

SNOWDROPSAT BENINGTON LORDSHIP GARDENS



Obituary - Ruth turnerMany of you will remember Ruth Turner – some of you as ‘her babies’, delivered by her when shewas the District Nurse and Midwife, others from later when she was ‘Akela’ of the First Weston CubPack, or as Secretary of the WI.

Ruth came to Weston as District Nurse in the late 1940’s after having trained at St Helier Hospitaland cared there for many who came back seriously injured from the ‘D Day’ Normandy landings.The job in Weston involved living at ‘Ivy Lodge’ on Fore Street and cycling to her patients. She particularly liked midwifery and in later years she would often meet ’her babies’ and have a chat.She became a Queen’s Nurse - a special award given to nurses working in the community.

She met and married William Turner – Bill - a local carpenter and builder and they married in 1949.Weston was her home for the next 50 years. She brought up her four sons, Kit, Graham, John andSimon who, incidentally – and coincidentally - despite none being twins, shared only two birthdaysbetween them!

She loved the village of Weston and played an active part in the village. One year when the BestKept Village Competition came round, they were looking for a motivating slogan. Ruth came upwith ‘Weston the best un’ and won the prize.

The family was also active in Holy Trinity Church, with her boys becoming choirboys there; Graham and John were later bell-ringers, and their father Bill had also been a ringer before.

One of her favourite stories from the time she was secretary of the Women’s Institute came from aspeech there about growing rhubarb. One of the audience asked what was the best thing to puton rhubarb? One wit, which made Ruth chuckle, said ‘Custard’! Like many others in Weston when the village was snowed in during 1963 she learned to bake her own bread and enjoy that!

Later she returned to nursing, working at Letchworth Hospital as a Staff Nurse.

In retirement she enjoyed her bungalow in Friar’s Road and the garden, but a few years ago she hada stroke which impaired her mobility and after a number of falls she needed to go into a residentialhome – Elmside in Hitchin, and was there for the last two years. Unfortunately in November shecaught pneumonia and after being transferred to Lister Hospital succumbed to it on 24 November.

The funeral service was held in Stopsley Crematorium in December and in accordance with her wishes, her ashes are to be interred in the grave of her son Graham in the churchyard of Holy Trinity.As many of you will know, Graham had lost his battle with cancer in 1999 – as did Bill about a year later.

For any who would want to mark Ruth’s passing, the interment will be at 12 noon on Monday 13 February – if you would particularly like to be involved please contact John Turner on 01462 643 775.



DEADLINE DATES for WPN in 2012

WPN Issue Letters Final Copy

MAR MAG (Done in Feb) Wed 15th Fri 17th

APRIL MAG (Done in Mar) Sun 18th Tues 20th

MAY MAG (Done in Apr) Wed 18th Fri 20th

JUNE MAG (Done in May) Wed 16th Sat 19th

JULY MAG (Done in June) Sat 16th Mon 18th

AUG MAG (Done in July) Wed 18th Fri 20th

SEPT MAG (Done in Aug) Fri 17th Mon 20th

OCT MAG (Done in Sept) Mon 17th Wed 19th

NOV MAG (Done in Oct) Thur 18th Sat 20th

DEC MAG (Done in Nov) Fri 17th Sun 18th

JAN MAG (Done in Dec) Fri 14th Sun 16th

FEB MAG (Done in Jan) Thur 17th Sat 19th



WPN ADVERTISINGA note to all advertisers

RENEWAL DATE for ANNUAL RATES: DEADLINE IS MARCH 31st 2012

During February we will be sending out renewal notices to all our regular

advertisers and we would like to take this opportunity to thank both annual

and ‘one-off ’ advertisers for placing your ads with us during 2011.

Annual advertisers: It really helps us to keep costs down if you respond to

the renewal notices as soon as possible prior to the deadline of March 31st.

We now have a waitlist of advertisers who are eager to promote their respective

businesses over a full year and we have limited space to accommodate everyone.

Therefore, if you do not let us know if you will require your existing space in WPN,

we will have to assume you do not wish to renew and we will be obliged, without

further notice, to offer the space to the next person on the waitlist.

! The good news is that our rates remain the same !

Return your renewal slip with your remittance (cheques made payable toWeston Parochial Church Council), (or your cancellation) by March 31st to:

The Editor, Dovecote Barn, Howells Farm, Halls Green, Weston, Herts SG4 7DZ

paul the plodPhone numbers 101 (if you have suffered a crime or need Police within a couple of hours)999 (for immediate response if you have just suffered a crime and to report hare coursing) PC 431 Paul Marina. North Herts Rural

[email protected] – 01438 [email protected] – 01438 [email protected] – 01438 757935



Many thanks to all the Carol Singers and Listeners on Dec 21st, 2011, I collected the hugesum of £43-86 for the GREEK CAT WELFARE SOCIETY! Most people didn't believe therewas such a charity, but, having been very upset to see how cats were treated whilst on a holiday on a Greek Island in October, 2011, I was told by the Vet about it. It runs a neuteringprogramme with volunteer vets visiting Greecewhich reduces the problem – it may be only a tiny stitch in a tapestry, but every stitch helps to reduce suffering!

For verification, you can googlegreekcatwelfare.moonfruit.com or contact Hilary Bailey, 3, Mill Ground, Weston,SG4 7AB,01462 [email protected]

noticesfeline goodwill...

If you would like to check on the route the Olympic Torch Carriers will take in our area, you can check online at the following website:

http://www.london2012.com/games/olympic-torch-relay/where-is-theolympic-flame-going/locations-by-region-and-date.php

Watch for WPN announcements too, regarding get-togethers being organised once we know the exact routing, to go and wave a few banners for the village.

Tim Moody

JOIN THE FUN, JOIN THE OLYMPIC TORCH ROUTE TO WELCOME IN THE OLYMPIC GAMES!



I met the Old Frog outside the alms houses and he was not in a very good mood. He was complaining that the little pond near the alms houses was dry. “I have not known such a mild winter like this for many a year” said the Old Frog. “While you are here” I said “can you tell meabout the school fire?”, and with one leap we were back to Sunday 14th January 1883 at 5.00am.

We crouched on the path which ran along the top of the bank which was the boundary of MuntsMeadow before the houses were built. You could see the flames and smoke coming from a lean-tobuilding that housed the furnace that heated the school. Local villagers were trying to put the fireout but without much success. Mr G Crisp, the headmaster, organised a messenger to go toBaldock for help but it was too late to save the school. The entire interior was burnt and just the bare walls were left standing.

“Come on”, said the Old Frog “it is time to go” and we were standing on the playground in the school grounds. “It must have been a huge financial loss” I said.“I understand” said the Old Frog “that there was about £400 worth of fire damage and the firewas started with wood which was drying next to the furnace”.

The Old Frog remembered, that two weeks later, the local newspaper reported a letter from the Headmaster:

Hertfordshire Express 27th January 1883.

We have received a letter from Mr G Crisp, of Weston schools, in which he says, in reply to our correspondent’s remark “If the brigade had been sent for when the fire was first discovered the Girls’ school might have been saved”, that there is no Girl’s school in Weston. He adds “no time was lost in sending for the engine since a messenger was on his way to Baldock within 10 minutes after the discovery of the fire. Such a useful body of men as the Baldock Fire Brigade doubtlessly deserve praise; but in my opinion, it would be advisable to leave the right of applause to the public. I am informed, Sir, that the Baldock Fire Brigade took 45 minutes to prepare before leaving for Weston”

The Old Frog reminded me that Mr Crisp had resigned giving three months notice on the Saturdayevening of the 13th January, the day before the fire, at a managers meeting.At this point the Old Frog had said that it was enough of this matter, other than to say that FannyStokes returned as head teacher and the school moved to temporary accommodation at the ThreeHorseshoes opposite the school.

The school was rebuilt at high speed and an ‘entertainment’ given on 4th April raised a sum of£17.8s.0d This was placed in the school account. All the necessary furniture and materials wereordered and it was hoped the school would be transferred from The Three Horseshoes back to thenewly built school in the following week.

In July the Church of England Temperance Society held a tea and meeting in the school. Some 119folk sat down to tea and afterwards listened to a stirring speech by Mr Wickham Inskip. A Drumand Fife band played on the school grounds before and after the meeting.

The Old Frog Sleeps So We TalkAbout The Weather


The Old Frog decided it was time to go and find another place to rest so he headed for the pondat the back of the school and Munts Meadow, but before he hopped away he said that theGovernment grant awarded to National Schools, the year of the fire, amounted to £87.19s.02d forWeston schools and, the Inspector reported that “good work has been done, and that the resultwas decidedly credible.”

I followed the Old Frog as he hopped up towards the Nursery Class and he paused for a minute or two. I told him that I had heard today of the sad news of the death of Toby Pryor. The Old Froglooked at me with his glistening eyes and said:

“Toby was a marvellous supporter of Weston school and along with his wife Pooh, Martin Laingand many others, led the village in raising the money to build the Nursery class. I remember in particular those wonderful barn dances at Fairclough in Halls Green and the Fete on the villagegreen, which was opened by the late Graham Hill the racing car driver. The Nursery class is stillgoing strong today. The many hundreds of Weston children whoenjoyed their nurseryschool days there is atribute to all the peoplewho had the vision to make it possible and in particular Iremember Toby. God bless you Toby.”

I followed the Old Frog a little way before he disappeared into the long grass.

Tadpole

With thanks to Hitchinmuseum and theHertfordshire Express.



You’re all invited to the DiamondJubilee celebration on June 4th

Preparations are now well under way for our village celebration of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.Everyone in Weston is welcome and each house will receive a personal invitation to come

and enjoy the pageant and then be served, free of charge, with a lovely lunch at the street party.

We would like the whole village to come and join in with the festivities and also with competitions for the best-decorated house and the best float.

More details will be published here in the coming months.



Weston Rugby Club News

THE FATBOYS CONTINUE SUCCESS WITHTWO GREAT VICTORIES

Weston continue to build on their success with two wins and two clean sheets from their last

two games:

Hitchin RFC 0 – 29 Weston RFC

Datchworth RFC 0 – 28 Weston RFC

Both of these games were great victories and against Hitchin we saw Marcus getting a hat trick on

his first appearance with us. Following our earlier match at home against Datchworth we had our

return fixture played on the 14th January away at Datchworth.

The result was a fantastic 28 – 0 win to Weston with four great tries and four straight conversions.

We were a bit rusty after Christmas and didn’t play particularly well so to keep a clean sheet and

win by such a convincing amount was very satisfying and all of the team put in a huge effort to

ensure this victory.

The sad news is that we did lose a few good men during this tough match with Niall Edmunds

having ripped his shoulder, Andy Sherman sustaining a severe back injury and Pete Bracey a broken

arm. Needless to say we all wish them well and a speedy recovery.

Full match reports are available to view on our website: www.westonrfc.co.uk. To get regular

updates and find out more click 'Join Website' on the homepage.

We will be continuing to training on Tuesday evenings on the rugby pitch under floodlights from

7.00pm, please come and join us.

Speak to Sonney in the shop or phone me for details on joining (07881-822460), we are always

looking for new members at every level of ability whether you have

played before or not we welcome you to join us.

David King



Weston RFC Forthcoming Fixtures

JanuarySat 28th Weston RFC v Hampstead RFC - Home

FebruarySat 4th Cambourne RFC v Weston RFC - AwaySat 11th Weston RFC v Hitchin RFC - Home

MarchSat 3rd Old Haberdashers RFC v Weston RFC - AwaySat 10th Hackney RFC v Weston RFC - Away

AprilSat 14th Weston RFC v Cambourne RFC - Home

Please do come and support us, it really does spur us on and is very much appreciated

at Halls Green Studio Gallery, Fairclough Hall, Halls Green, Weston SG4 7DP

From 1pm - 5pm on Saturday 3rd March 2012

The exhibition also runs throughout March,Daily from 11am - 4pm until 31st March

(Saturdays 11am - 4pm, Sundays 11am - 3pm by appointment please)

Preview rsvp: [email protected] or 07814 019339

Private viewing ofThe Amazing Drawings of emerging young local artist

JACK GERAGHTY(b. 1994)


PREMIERWeston Post Office & Village Store

Winter Opening TimesMon-Fri: 7.30am - 7.00pmSaturday: 8.00am - 7.00pmSunday: 8.00am - 3.00pm_________________________

NEW IMPROVED WESTON VILLAGE STORE!!!!!

Great new offers in store every four weeks. There are fantastic bargains to be had on all your general convenience items.

Speciality goods e.g. local meats, free range eggs, cheeses, teas, coffees and cakes.

Hot Teas, Coffees and Hot chocolate in-store.

Sandwiches.

Hot foods

Laundry and Dry-cleaning service_________________________

NOT TO BE MISSED!!!!! Starting on 25th Jan to 20th Feb

EXCLUSIVEPick up a scratch card for when you spend £5 or more

(excluding tobacco and have to be 18+)

1 IN 2 CHANCES TO WIN!(100’s GADGETS & CASH PRIXZES TO BE WON PLUS INSTANT PRIZES IN-STORE)

If you have any feedback we are always happy to hear from you.

Contact Sonney: 01462 790258



Situated in the pretty village of Watton-at-Stone, Hair Works offers a comprehensive range of hair and beauty products and services. Rural businesses within North Hertfordshire are providingvaluable services to those of us who are not always in the mood to brave the parking problems of towns and cities, or try to find a seat on crowded trains. Is it my imagination, or are trains alsogetting shorter as well these days? So villages, including our own lovely Weston, have much tooffer when it comes to goods and services on the doorstep. You can be sure of a warm welcome atHair Works and the additional bonus of FREE parking.

As well as the full range of hairdressing, pedicures and manicures, Hair Works have recentlylaunched their Tanning Service from Sienna-X, the official tanning supplier to Strictly ComeDancing, the BRIT awards of 2011 and ‘Urban Retreat’ at Harrods. See Hair Works full page ad fordetails of February special promotional offer.

Salon Manager, Emily, says, “We offer a consultation service to ensure we look after our clients asindividuals instead of treating them like numbers. We establish what they really want, and makethem feel welcomed and cared for. If you look after people they will want to keep coming back..”

Established for 15 years, Hair Works looks set to continue for another 15, especially if they continue with their caring philosophy.

HAIR WORKS - for everyone..

LEGO MINIFIGURESDOES ANYONE HAVE A YOUNG PERSON IN THE HOUSE

WHO COLLECTS LEGO MINIFIGURES?My grandsons have built up quite a collection with some from each series

and would love to be able to swop. However it’s difficult for them as they’reliving in Istanbul and none of their mates out there collect them.

Anyone interested?

Jennie Bowell (790582)[email protected]


HAIR WORKSare pleased to announce their launch of Sienna-X Spray Tanning,

available at the Salon, or in the comfort of your own home

for a Spray Tan Party for 4 or more people.

Sienna-X is the official tanning supplier to Strictly Come Dancing,

the BRIT awards 2011 and Urban Retreat at Harrods.

You can visit us at

36a High Street, Watton-at-Stone, Herts. SG14 3SY

Opening hours:

Tuesday 9am - 8pm

Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 9am - 5pm

Saturday 8am - 4pm

Full body Spray Tan

Shoulders, arms and face Party Package Spray Tan

All spray tans £15 throughout February

if you mention this ad when booking!

Consultations for 'Party-Hair-Ups' also available

Also: Full hair dressing, manicure and pedicure services

Please call for further information about future promotions

or any other queries, on 01920 830354

Best wishes,

Gill, Emily, Kelly, Jeanette, Sophie, Angie


WESTON PARISH COUNCIL MINUTES

Minutes of the Meeting held on Thursday 12th January 2012 in the Village Hall Reading Room which commenced at 8.00pm

Present: Chair: Councillor Tim Moody, Councillor Joanna Cherry, Councillor John Cherry, CouncillorJudith Evans, Councillor Steve Ludbrook, Councillor Helen Marlow, Councillor Alistair Schofield andCouncillor Sonney Singh

In attendance: Lorraine Ellis (Clerk) and District Councillor Steve Jarvis001. Apologies for absence: Councillor Leona Barr-Jones (other commitments)

002. Public participation: None

003. To receive declarations of interest in accordance with the Council’s code of conduct:Councillor Steve Ludbrook declared an interest in a Planning decision and Councillors John Cherry and Judith Evans declared an interest in the discussion on the Council’s contribution to Weston Parish News.

004. Minutes of the meeting held on 8th December:To take the minutes as read and approve them as a true and accurate record. The minutes were then duly signed by the Chairman.

005. Matters arising from the minutes of 8th December:2011/457 Snap update: Nothing to report at this time.2011/75(c) Neighbourhood Plan: It was reported that responses to the questionnaire had been received via e-mail and at the Village Shop.2011/75(d) Parish Council website update: The Chairman reported that discussions had been held with Weston PCC and Weston Parish News, it was agreed that a website would be welcome but it would need to be kept up-to-date. There was concern on who would manage and fund the website. It was agreed that Councillor Ludbrook would attend the next Weston PCC meeting on 15th February for an outline discussion. It is hoped that a local webmaster be found to help with the project.2011/83 Illustrative sign for the flower meadow: Council reviewed the draft design for the illustrative sign presented by Councillor Evans. It was agreed that Councillors should forward any changes or amendments to the draft to Councillor Evans as soon as possible. Council willhave an opportunity to see the final version before production of the sign. It is anticipated that the work will be completed by the end of March. The sign is to be located in the same location as the previous sign. All agreed that it was an excellent piece of work and that Councillor Evans should include her name in the list of acknowledgements.2011/101(a) Queen’s Diamond Jubilee update: Councillor Marlow reported that a meeting of the organising committee had recently taken place where budgets and fundraising had been discussed. A grant application has been forwarded to North Hertfordshire District Council for their consideration.Councillor Evans reported that Trinity Sunday will be on 3rd June 2012 and it may be possible to combine events with the Jubilee celebrations. Council discussed the possibility of planting an oak tree on the Village Green using acorns taken from a jubilee oak. Care will need to be taken when planting on the Village Green dueto underground pipework in the suggested location. The Chairman to take the necessary action.



006. PLANNING:Applications: None receivedDecisions: Duly noted.

007. Footpaths and Village Environment: a. It was reported that the HCC Rights of Way Officer has been contacted regarding the issues

with the footpath 042 sign and the Lolleywood Lane sign. A response has not yet been received from HCC.

b. Council agreed to use the same contractor in 2012 to cut the wildflower meadow if their quotation is within 5% of the amount invoiced in 2011.

c. It was agreed that there would be a general litter pick and that the shrubbery around the pond would be cut down on Saturday 11th February 2012 from 10:00am to 1:00pm, Councillor Joanna Cherry agreed to arrange to advertise the event in the Weston Parish News and the Village Shop.

d. Councillor John Cherry agreed to replace the log which had been situated on Footpath 9 to Halls Green.

e. Councillor Evans reported that the work on the hedge started by the Youth Offending Team would be completed by Countryside Management Service on 8th March 2012.

008. Recreation Grounds and Open spaces: It was reported that although moles were not present as the removal work may have been undertaken they were however present on the rugby pitch.

009. Village maintenance: a. It was reported that the litter bin stickers had been applied to the bins, additional stickers

were required, the Clerk to action.b. Council wished to express their thanks to Peter Sheppard and Don Spearman for their

help with the Christmas tree. Thanks are also to go to John Cherry for supplying the tree.010. Highways and lighting:

a. It was noted that lamp post no. 7 in Maiden Street had been reported as being faulty and was ‘on’ continuously, Hertfordshire Highways (HHs) had advised that this had been resolved, it is still faulty and has again been reported as a fault. The Clerk to contact HHs for an update.

b. The Chairman reported that two complaints had been received regarding the condition of Jacksons Lane near Garthlands. Consideration was given to a short term solution and it was agreed that the Chairman should contact the two home owners to discuss a temporary solution and request that they scrape and hardcore the area during the building process and provide a clear walking area, it is hoped that delivery vehicles would avoid the walking area. Council will discuss a long term solution at a later date.

011. Finance and administraion:a. To report on the future of Weston School: The Chairman reported that a meeting had

been held with an NHDC planner who would be able to provide specialist help. Funding for a new school would require fundraising, sponsorship and re-development of the current site.

WESTON PARISH COUNCIL MINUTES CONT.



District Councillor Steve Jarvis reported to Council that the NHDC Baldock & District Committee had received a presentation from a resident on the parking issues near the school, it would not be possible to remove the zig zag lines unless requested to do so by the school. Council discussed the possible options, it was agreed that the Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) should be involved, the Clerk to invite the PCSO to the next meeting.

b. Weston Parish News contribution: Council agreed that their contribution to Weston Parish News for printing the Council’s minutes should be increased from January 2012 by 5%, the Clerk to action.

c. Update on the Red Lion: It is understood that Greene King has received an offer by a Developer for the Red Lion. It is understood that the Red Lion is a Listed Building and there is concern at the possible loss of its licence. District Councillor Jarvis also agreed to discuss the situation with NHDC.

d. Private Property signs: Council were concerned at the number of private property signs that were appearing in the fields in Weston.

e. Cheque signing & accounts for January: The accounts for January for £4,176.48 were duly approved.

f. Correspondence: Duly noted.

The Chairman thanked everyone for attending and the meeting then closed at 9:50pm. The nextmeeting will be on Thursday 9th February 2012 at 8:00pm in the Village Hall Reading Room.

WESTON PARISH COUNCIL MINUTES CONT.


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jan issue of the weston parish news

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