February 2015

St Mary’s Freeland

Grapevine

2

Are you improving your Garden?

Seven ways we can help you enjoy your garden more: We hand build, in our workshop, all kinds of SHEDS and GARDEN BUILDINGS We are able to make any size or shape of TIMBER FENCING and TRELLIS We have a beautiful range of GARDEN FURNITURE We can provide you with superb ENTRANCE and GARDEN GATES to give your home that finishing touch We make PERGOLAS and ARBOURS - in any design We are a real WORKING SAWMILL cutting OAK and SOFTWOOD to order We stock a HUGE RANGE of STANDARD FENCING MATERIALS CALL US NOW TO DISCUSS YOUR REQUIREMENTS - 01993 881391 Cuckoo Lane, North Leigh, Witney, Oxfordshire OX29 6PS

www.eynshamparksawmill.co.uk e-mail: eps_sales@eynshamparksawmill.co.uk

Monday-Friday 8.00am - 4.30pm Saturday 8.00am - 12.30pm

Hidden away in Cuckoo Lane, just off the A4095 between Long Hanborough and North Leigh

3

ST MARY THE VIRGIN, FREELAND

Services for January 2015

25th 08.00 Holy Communion (Rev. David Tyler) Services for February 2015

1st 10.00 Family Service (Rev. David Tyler) 18.00 Taizé (Rev. Peter Ball)

8th 08.00 Holy Communion (Rev. David Tyler)

15th 10.00 Holy Communion (Rev. Peter Ball)

18th 20.00 Holy Communion for Ash Wednesday (Rev. Peter Ball)

22nd 08.00 Holy Communion (Rev. David Tyler) Services for March 2015

1st 10.00 Family Service (Rev. David Tyler) 18.00 Taizé (Rev. Peter Ball)

Toddlers at St Mary’s All families with pre-school aged children are welcome to join in the fun at our toddler group in St Mary’s, Freeland. There are many toys, a craft table and we have a Christian themed story every week. We provide snacks, drinks, home baked cakes, fresh coffee and tea while we have a chat and share time together, all for a small donation of 50p. The group runs during term time on Thursdays from 10am to 11.30am and everyone is very welcome. If you would like to know more then please contact Jane on 882654 or David on 881270.

Bible Fun Club ‘BFC’ is a group for parents, carers and young children who meet once a month for games, crafts and snacks with a Christian theme. We meet on a Thursday during term time, at the Village Hall from 3.30 - 4.30pm. 11+ Hitchhikers meeting in Hanborough at 7pm on Sunday evening. For further information on all these groups or services phone David on 881270 or visit www.achurchnearyou.com/st-mary-the-virgin-freeland or www.hanboroughparish.org.uk

*************************************

FROM THE REGISTERS AT ST MARY THE VIRGIN

Baptisms: George Hardy 4th January 2015

Funerals: Doreen Stroud 7th January 2015

4

Top Quality Fresh Milk and Dairy Products DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR

COMPREHENSIVE SHOPPING

LIST

•OXFORD TIMES•

‘NOW ON LINE’

Tel: 01865 792221 (Dairy) Mob. 07961 890218 Tel: 01993 706843 (Home)

Help!

Leather renovation | rug cleaning | burn re-tufting | odour removal | sanitizing.

Help when you need it.

Free estimates: 01865 882345 helpline Email: service@sm-oxford.demon.co.uk

Deep cleaning plus fast drying for carpets, upholstery and curtains (at the window) Carpet and fabric protector ...and more

●

●

Steve Lay PLUMBING … HEATING … LEADWORK

‘Murcia’ 20 Blenheim Lane Freeland Witney Oxon OX29 8AW

Tel: (01993) 882479 Mobile: 07969 930518

www.milkandmore.co.uk Mike Tinson - Local Milkman GOAT & SOYA MILK NOW AVAILABLE

ONLINE ORDERING AND PAYMENT

NOW AVAILABLE!

5

Some useful contact details:

Rector: Rev. David Tyler Associate Minister: Rev. Peter Ball 01993 881270 01993 882859 The Rectory, Swan Lane Email: ptb49@yahoo.co.uk Long Hanborough OX29 8BT Email: revdavidtyler@googlemail.com

Curate: Rev. Dr Phil Cooke 01865 881366 Email: revphilcooke@gmail.com

Licensed Lay Ministers: Clive Berry 01993 881384 Hugh Dalton 01993 881742

Lay Pastoral Assistants:

John Fox 01993 881384 Peter Langley 01993 883775

Churchwardens: Weddings: Flowers in the Church: Claire Soanes Steve Mellin Margaret Stringer Janet Dalton 01993 883205 01993 882044 01993 882112 01993 881742

All sorts of interesting information about St Mary’s can be seen on the “A Church Near You” website: www.achurchnearyou.com/st-mary-the-virgin-freeland

If you have any interesting pictures that could be used on this site, please contact Roy Thomas on 01993 882866 or email: print@associatedagencies.co.uk

You can now see a virtual tour of St Mary’s on Google Street View at: http://goo.gl/g53NJH

*************************** Dear friends,

In March our churches have planned for Henry Olonga to come and speak and to sing (he's a professional singer) in the Pavilion in Long Hanborough. Now I freely admit that I do not know much about cricket - I barely know which end of the club to hold ;-) .

But as I have heard a bit of Henry's story I have been inspired and am really looking forward to hearing him speak.

I have recently found out that he was the first black cricketer and the youngest person to play for Zimbabwe. His international cricket career ended in 2003 after Henry and his team mate Andy Flower wore black armbands during the Cricket World Cup of 2003 to "mourn the death of democracy" in Zimbabwe.

What a brave man to stand up to Robert Mugabe and his regime on this very public way.

Where did he get the strength to do such a thing? ... well I am sure that he will tell us about how his Christian Faith and his love of God allowed him to do such an important, but incredibly brave thing.

Continued………..

6

NEED HELP WITH YOUR GARDEN!

Livey’s Taxi

Local & Regional Airports ~ Stations North Leigh based

4, 6 and 8 Seater Vehicles

Tel: 07979 507535

Credit Cards Accepted

Paths

Powerwashed Patios

Powerwashed

e-mail pburge@fsmail.net

Pete Burge Garden Services Ltd 07795 217 953 (mobile)

01993 881762 (home)

Hedge trimming - Pruning - Planting - Lawn maintenance - Leaf clearing - Weeding - Digging … and much much more!

7

Continued………

I am really excited to hear what Henry will say when he comes to visit us on the evening of Friday 20th March. Because we expect a lot of people to want to come and hear him we are going to ticket the event - but if you would like to know the details of the event and receive a ticket, do get in touch.

With best wishes,

David

*****************************************

ST MARY’S CHURCH BELLS RINGING REPORT

The bells will be rung at the following Sunday services:

1st February: 9.15am to 10.00am

15th February: 9.15am to 10.00am

1st March: 9.15am to 10.00am

Usual practice every Monday from 7.30pm until 9pm.

Foundation Practice takes place on Fridays from 6pm to 7pm, except where a practice falls immediately before a Saturday practice.

Open and Doubles Minor Practice will take place on the fourth Saturday from 3pm to 5pm during the winter months.

The City Branch of bell ringers will join us on a rota basis on the fourth Saturdays of the month. The months they are not joining us we will have an invited band of bell ringers from our own tower and supporting towers.

Please contact the Tower Captain, Neil Ephgrave (883850) or myself should you wish to discuss any bell ringing matters.

You can see more about Freeland Bell Ringers under the “Clubs and Groups” section of the village website www.freelandoxon.co.uk

Margaret Hewitt - Tower Correspondent Tel 882992

Freeland Hall

Including Newell Meeting Room and changing facilities

The perfect venue whatever the occasion!

Bookings / further details:

freelandhall@gmail.com

07501 270 526

www.freelandhall.co.uk

8

AMS AERIALS

All types of TV & FM aerials installed All adaptations and additions catered for

Fast, friendly, reliable service. All work guaranteed

Paul Smith

32 Schofield Avenue, Witney, Oxon OX28 1JN Tel: 01993 703857 * Mobile: 07767 252173

Repairs ….. Welding ….. Insurance Work ….. Low Bake Oven

trendy refinishers limited Trevor Fowler Body Repairs

Unit 6, Standlake Business Park Witney Road, Standlake

Oxford OX29 7PR

Tel/Fax: 01865 303080 Mobile: 07803 192130

E-mail: trendy refinishers@hotmail.com

www.trendyrefinishers.co.uk

Hollis Painting & Decorating

House & Garden Maintenance Tiling

Fully Insured

David Hollis

3 Busby Close, Freeland, Witney OX29 8TA

Tel: 01993 886903 Mobile: 07818 471263

hollis.paints@btinternet.com

9

A GREAT OPPORTUNITY to be at the heart of your village

Your Village Hall received 890 separate bookings in the last calendar year, for functions and meetings of every type, for every age.

The management committee need more help to keep the standard as high as we have come to expect. Would you consider joining us?

The committee of 8 voluntary members meet on the second Monday of every month and would welcome your input. It’s a rewarding way to meet the village.

Please contact:: Dot Sharpe 01993 882181 Terry Jones 01993 882129 Robert Crocker 01993 881942 Services in Hanborough for January 2015

25th 10.00 Holy Communion (Rev. David Tyler) St Peter & St Paul 10.00 Morning Worship Manor School 18.00 Evening Prayer (Rev. David Tyler) Christ Church

Services in Hanborough for February 2015

1st 08.00 Holy Communion (Rev. David Tyler) St Peter & St Paul 10.00 Morning Worship Manor School 18.00 BCP Holy Communion and Healing Service Christ Church (Rev. David Tyler)

8th 10.00 Holy Communion (Rev. David Tyler) St Peter & St Paul 10.00 Holy Communion with Thanksgiving Manor School (Revs Phil Cooke and Kath Cooke) 18.00 Evening Prayer Christ Church

15th 08.00 Holy Communion (Rev. Peter Ball) St Peter & St Paul 10.00 Worship Together Manor School 10.00 United Morning Prayer Christ Church 18.00 Compline Christ Church

18th 20.00 Holy Communion for Ash Wednesday St Mary’s Freeland (Rev. Peter Ball)

22nd 10.00 Holy Communion (Rev. David Tyler) St Peter & St Paul 10.00 Morning Worship (Rev. Phil Cooke) Manor School 18.00 Evening Prayer (Rev. David Tyler) Christ Church

Services in Hanborough for March 2015

1st 08.00 Holy Communion (Rev. David Tyler) St Peter & St Paul 10.00 Morning Worship Manor School 18.00 BCP Holy Communion (Rev. David Tyler) Christ Church

10

BEAUCHAMP & BUTLER LTD

Top Quality Bathrooms/Shower Rooms

(All trades included)

All work guaranteed: Gassafe 180202

Free Estimates : 01865 735278

EVER-SUN GAS SERVICES

FULLY QUALIFIED GAS SERVICE ENGINEER GAS SAFE / A.C.O.P.S REGISTERED 8205

GAS BOILER SERVICING GAS SAFETY CERTIFICATES

TEL. 01993 881848 MOBILE 07850 144910

A COMPLETE SERVICE FROM YOUR LOCAL

GAS COMPANY

MAINTENANCE AND REPAIRS TO APPROVED

GAS APPLIANCES

11

THE CATHOLIC CHURCH OF ST PETER, EYNSHAM Serving the Hanboroughs, Freeland, Cassington, South Leigh, Stanton Harcourt, Sutton and Northmoor. Many non-Catholics come to our Church or get help from our Priest. You are always welcome.

THE CHURCH is open for prayer 08.30-17.00 at Abbey Street, Eynsham, OX29 4HR Tel: 01865 881613 Website : www.stpeterseynsham.org.uk

SUNDAY MASS is at 10.00am with a Children’s Liturgy during Mass and SATURDAY (for Sunday) 7.30pm Mass also on Mondays 10.00am (sometimes 7.00am), Tuesdays 5.30pm, Wednesdays 10.00am, Thursdays 12 noon, and Fridays 7.00am

THE PRIEST: Father Martin Flatman is happy to receive enquiries by phone, email or text. Mobile 07719 646790 E-mail: frmartinflatman@gmail.com He lives at the House attached to the Church.

HIS WEEKLY TALK (Homily) can be sent to you by email. Just send your address. It is also on the Parish Website and on his Blog: frmartinflatman.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @FrMartin Flatman & on Facebook as Martin Flatman

CONFESSIONS on Saturdays at 7.00pm and Wednesdays at 10.30am or by appointment

THE HALL (The Tolkien Room) is available for hire with a lovely outside area for children to play in. Tel: 07919 605544 c.barton0660@gmail.com

OUR ANNUAL PANCAKE FEAST will be on Saturday 14th February (10.30am - 1.30pm) Pancakes with various fillings will be available and make a good lunch or a brunch. Given the date, perhaps we will see a few people falling in love with one another at the Feast? One never knows the effect a few delicious pancakes can have!!!

LENT BEGINS WITH ASH WEDNESDAY on 18th February and the Ceremony of Ashing will take place during each Mass (10.00am and 8.00pm). Anyone can come forward as a sign of sorrow for past mistakes and determination to do more for God especially during Lent. The priest marks your forehead with ash and says “Remember you are dust and to dust you shall return” and “Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel”.

OUR LENT COURSE will be on Tuesday evenings in Lent at 8.00pm and will include discussion on how to better promote the Family as an essential part of human life. This links with what the Pope and the Bishops began discussing in Rome last Autumn and will continue to discuss next Autumn. It includes discussion on how best to support people who are divorced and re-married or are in other kinds of relationships.

STATIONS OF THE CROSS is at a different time and day this year, on Wednesday mornings after the 10.00am Mass. There will be a brief pause after Mass and then Stations will begin. We sing a verse of a Hymn and then a Mediation follows before each of the Stations as we follow the way of Jesus to the cross and the grave. This will mean that during Lent the period of Silent Prayer (Adoration) normally on Wednesdays will be on Thursdays at 11.30am. Continued……...

12

PELLMANS Your Local Solicitors

• Business and Employment Law • Property Contracts, Legal Compliance Residential, Commercial and Disputes and Agricultural

• Wills, Probate and Trusts Tax Planning and Lasting

Powers of Attorney

01865 884400 www.pellmans.co.uk

1 Abbey Street, Eynsham, Witney, Oxfordshire OX29 4TB Home visits and evening appointments available

OLIVER’S GARAGE Ltd Established 1919

SERVICING AND REPAIRS

MOTS ENGINE DIAGNOSTICS

EXTENSIVE TYRE STOCK Are you ready for winter?

Free antifreeze and tyre check-no appointment necessary New Tyres fitted while you wait

Free tea/coffee and wifi available in our waiting area

TEL: 01993 881208 office@oliversgarage.com

13

Continued………..

IF YOU FIND YOURSELF IN HOSPITAL it is ESSENTIAL that you ask the staff there to contact the Catholic Chaplain for you, or the Anglican Chaplain if you are not a Catholic, as the Hospitals no longer give the Chaplain access to this information automatically. Anyone with any connection with St Peter’s should please tell Father Martin or Deacon Chris if you are expecting to go into hospital, or if you are in hospital after an emergency admission, so we can make sure you are supported spiritually.

************************************** FREELAND METHODIST CHURCH

Minister: Paul Weir, 69 Hurdswell, Long Hanborough, Witney OX29 8DQ Tel. 886818. E-mail: revpaulweir@gmail.com

Jan 25th 10.00 Covenant Service with Rev. Paul Weir at Long Hanborough

Feb 1st 10.00 Family Worship at St Mary’s 8th 10.30 Ellie Griffin, our lively young deacon from the Witney section 15th 10.30 Rev. Paul Weir 22nd 10.30 Do-it-ourselves hymns, readings, prayers and thought for the first Sunday of Lent

March 1st 10.00 Family Worship at St Mary’s

Thank you to everyone who came to our Candlelight Carols. The singing was great and your generosity enabled us to send a donation of £100 to Methodist Homes.

The plea for support in the December Grapevine was picked up by the Oxford Mail and Witney Gazette. Yes, they really do look at all the village newsletters each month! A lady in Brize Norton has missed her own chapel so much since it closed she sent a generous donation to help us remain open. We are grateful to the organisations which use the building, but to remain a viable place of worship we need enthusiastic, fit people, or to put it bluntly - bums on seats on Sundays!! However, we will boldly carry on while we can.

MICHAEL PRICE & SON

PLASTERING

SPECIALISING IN THE DOMESTIC MARKET FOR ALL YOUR PLASTERING NEEDS

ALSO NO NEED TO PAINT ITALIAN POLISHED PLASTERS

For more details Tel: 01608 811642

Mobile: 07710 170049

58 Ticknell Piece Road, Charlbury, 0X7 3TW

14

ROOFIX *All Roofing Repairs: *Slating and Tiling: *Flat Roofing: *Moss Clearance: *Valleys and Flashings: *Chimneys and General Re-pointing: *U.P.V.C. Fascia/Soffits and Guttering: *A Prompt and Reliable Service: *No job too small: *Advice and Estimates FREE: *Price Guaranteed in Written Quote.

FREEPHONE 0800 955 5063

DK GARDENS

Full garden design & construction services including: - Garden restoration & clearance * Fencing & paving

Ponds & water features * Planting schemes General maintenance * Male/female team

BTEC National Certificate in Horticulture * Chelsea Medal Winner Established 2002

Dan & Kaz Kemp (w) 07432 514989 (h) 01993 775474 dkgardens123@gmail.com

Designer cakes… …just for you

Custom made cakes for your special occasion Cake decorating classes and parties

www.janescakestudio.co.uk jane.cakestudio@gmail.com

07514 581 369

15

This friendly group continues to meet in the village hall every Monday morning during term-time 10.00am until 11.30am. A wide variety of toys and play equipment is available every week along with a drink and snack for the children. Tea, coffee and biscuits/cake are available for parents / grandparents / carers.

We provide a craft table each week. The themes for February are:

2nd February - House sticky pictures

9th February - Valentines craft

16th February - no session due to half-term

23rd February - Chinese New Year craft

We look forward to seeing you!

For more information please contact Helen on (01993) 880469.

Freeland Baby and Toddler Group

THAMES VALLEY FARMERS MARKET Witney 08.30 - 13.30 23 Jan 27 Feb Woodstock 08.30 - 13.00 7 Feb 7 Mar

Details of other Farmers’ Markets at www.tvfm.org.uk

16

AIRPORT TRANSFERS WITNEY SHUTTLE

THE WITNEY SHUTTLE OPERATES DAILY, TIMETABLED, DOOR-TO-DOOR AIRPORT TRANSFERS FROM FREELAND TO

ALL terminals at HEATHROW FROM £67 pp RETURN (if there are 2 people in your group).

VISIT WEBSITE FOR TIMETABLES & FARES

FREEPHONE: 0800 043 4633 or 01993 705993 WWW.WITNEYSHUTTLE.COM

FIRM FIZZIQUE FITNESS

CLASSES IN FREELAND & LONG HANBOROUGH

PILATES - Monday Long Hanboro’ Rec Hall 7.00-8.15pm

YOGA - Tuesday Freeland Village Hall 7.45-9.00pm

PILATES - Wednesday Freeland Village Hall 9.30-10.30am

FUZION - Saturday Freeland Village Hall 8.30-9.45am

FUZION is a combination of Yoga, Pilates & Stretch. Please note that the Saturday class is subject to time and venue change.

Up to date information on all classes can be found on the website below.

www.firmfizzique.co.uk

email firmfizzique@btinternet.com Firmfizzique Fuzion or call Jane on 01993 881050 or 07557 993201

MARTIN DREW FSSCh DipPodMed MBChA

CHIROPODIST/PODIATRIST Established in 1990

Home visits available in Freeland area by appointment

Registered with Health Professions Council Reg.No CH19287

E.mail jmnd@btinternet.com

Tel. FREEPHONE 0800 0277937 or 01993 851130

17

FREELAND PARISH COUNCIL LISA’S NOTES FROM THE MEETING HELD ON 15TH DECEMBER 2014 Vacancy on the Parish Council Councillors were extremely sorry to learn of Martin Shann’s decision to resign from the Parish Council. Martin has worked for the Council since January 2009 and we are very grateful to him for all the hard work he has put in during this time, especially his assistance in setting up the allotments in Freeland. We would all like to wish him well for the future and thank him most sincerely for his contribution over the past 5 years.

Following this resignation, we now have a vacancy on the Council. If no election is asked for now, then the Councillors can co-opt a new member. You must be: 21 years or over, be a British subject, or a citizen of the Irish Republic or a citizen of a member

state of the European Union, and be a local government elector of the parish or have lived in the parish or within

3 miles of it, or had your only place of work in Freeland during the past 12 months.

Please do consider joining the Council and being a part of our friendly team. It’s a great way to get to know what goes on in our village, how things get done, and what the Parish Council does for the residents, as well as getting to know some friendly faces! If anyone in the village is interested in joining the Council, please contact me on 01993 880067 or email lisa.fpc@gmail.com

Come and join the Council and make a real difference to your village!

New Pye Homes development proposal on A4095 Just to keep you up to date, there is still no final decision by WODC regarding the Pye Homes application to build up to 169 houses on the South side of the A4095. The Parish Council submitted a letter of objection to the proposals and we have been informed that it is unlikely to be decided until the February Planning Committee Meeting at WODC at the earliest.

Memorial Trees Following the receipt of the tree licence from Oxfordshire County Council, I am pleased to advise that the planting of the 15 memorial trees has begun. Various locations have been identified throughout the village and homeowners whose homes are situated near these sites have been notified. These trees are to commemorate the 15 Freeland residents who died during WW1 and WW2 and should be a lovely asset to our beautiful village. The Parish Council wishes to extend its thanks to Robert Crocker and Tim Webster for sourcing the trees and arranging the tree planting.

New defibrillator I am pleased to advise that Freeland is now the proud owner of 2 new Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). One has been installed outside of the village hall to the left of the entrance near the key pad lock and the other will be installed imminently inside the phone box on the corner of Parklands. These are important pieces of life saving equipment and we would like to thank West Oxfordshire District Council who provided a grant for 50% towards the total cost of one of the defibrillators. Continued.....

18

GRINDFORCE TREE STUMP & ROOT REMOVAL SPECIALIST

STAN PARTLETT

ACCESS ONLY 26 INCHES

ALL TREE WORK UNDERTAKEN Phone/Fax:01993 883938 Mobile: 07754 738 422

email:grindforce@hotmail.com GRINDFORCE. LET US GET TO THE ROOT OF THE PROBLEM

FULLY INSURED FREE ESTIMATES

39 PINSLEY ROAD LONG HANBOROUGH WITNEY, OXON OX29 8JQ TEL: 01993 883938

NEW ROOFS ~ FLAT ROOFS ~ REPAIRS

The complete local roofing and maintenance service with over 40 years experience. Including: Tiling, Slating, Lead work, Chimney repairs,

Felt roofs, Re-pointing, Gutters and Fascias.

Fully insured, work guaranteed, free estimates.

Tel: 01869 331316 Mobile: 07762 946430

M B ROOFING

19

Continued…….. We are now in the process of arranging some training for residents to attend - watch this space for more details.

Play Park Development The £50,000 WREN grant application has now been submitted. Councillors were also delighted to receive a £200 donation from the Freeland Teddy Girls from the chocolate tombola held at the Christmas tree lighting event at the village hall. Our sincere thanks to all of the Teddy Girls for their ongoing support to village projects and fantastic efforts with their fundraising.

New Internal Auditor I am very pleased to report that Brian Wildblood has agreed to take over the role of the Parish Council’s Internal Auditor when Peter Gill finishes at the end of March this year. Brian is considered to be very well suited to this role as he already carries out the Treasurer position for the Gardening Club and has a wealth of financial knowledge gained in his previous roles. We would like to offer our thanks to Brian for taking on this important voluntary position and wish him well.

Community Led Plan Following the completion of the final Community Led Plan, another one of the top items requested by those who responded is a youth/day centre. Therefore if anyone in the village is interested in setting up or joining a youth centre/day centre working group to try and take this forward please contact me on 01993 880067 or email me at lisa.fpc@gmail.com . Without volunteers to take forward the results of the CLP, changes will not happen so please do try and get involved!

Planning Applications: All planning applications can now be viewed on line from the Village Website at www.freelandoxon.co.uk (under Planning Applications) or via the WODC website at www.westoxon.gov.uk/planning. You can also contact the Planning Team at WODC on 01993 861420 and view the documents at Woodgreen Council Offices.

Applications received: 14/01836/FUL 23 BROADMARSH LANE, FREELAND Erection of two storey dwelling for Mrs Barbara Kingman (this has now been granted)

14/02068/FUL OVERSTONE, THE GREEN, FREELAND. Extension and conversion of outbuilding to provide a dwelling for Ms Janine Charles.

Applications Granted: None. Applications Refused: None.

Contacting the Council & Date of Next Meeting: Next council meeting will be held on Monday 16th February 2014 at 8.00pm in the Newell Room. If you wish to contact the Parish Council about a particular matter and have access to the internet, please have a look at the village website where lots of useful information is held. The website can be accessed via www.freelandoxon.co.uk Alternatively, please contact me between the hours of 9.00am – 5.00pm, Monday to Friday - Lisa Smith, Parish Clerk on 01993 880067 or email lisa.fpc@gmail.com

20

FAIRFIELD BUILDING SERVICES LIMITED

Are a Freeland based company that aim to provide the highest quality and competitively priced Pre-purchase house surveys, Architectural Design, Garden Design and Property Maintenance to house owners.

The services offered are:-

Pre-purchase house surveys. Property Design and Planning Applications for extensions and conversions Garden Design and construction. House, property and garden maintenance and repairs.

If you would like to discuss any of the above services with me, please either ring me on (P) 01993 / 882217 (M) 07717 062512 or contact me by E mail: edward.fairfield@googlemail.com

Free initial meeting and quote for work. No VAT.

Thank you - Tod Fairfield ACIOB

Dave Keenan Plumbing & Heating

Phone: 07977 547419 or 01865 731443

email: dave@dkh2o.co.uk

www.davekeenanplumbingandheating.co.uk

Natural Gas, Oil, Solid Fuel and LPG Engineer Boiler Installation, Repair and Service

Rayburn and Aga Guild Engineer Woodburning Stoves

Duck Puddle Barn, City Farm, Eynsham

21

22

All aspects of electrical insulation work Periodic testing + inspections (safety checks) Portable Appliance Testing Part P registered and fully insured NOT VAT REGISTERED

J M FENNYMORE

Electrician

07816 650 011

jason@jmfennymore.co.uk

Licensed Taxis

23

FREELAND GARDENING CLUB

With a new gardening year to look forward to this is an exciting time. Many have already ordered seeds and plants and wait for the right conditions to start planting. There was no meeting of the Club in December though the Committee did get together for a very good Christmas Dinner at The Yeoman. Thank you very much to Trevor and his team.

The first meeting of the year is on 26th January at 7.30pm in Freeland Hall. One of our favourite speakers, Timothy Walker, will tell us about ‘Plant Hunting in Australia Part 1’ and probably show many of his excellent slides. Timothy is always an entertaining speaker whatever his subject so this will be a good start to the year.

On 23rd February, Howard Drury, another popular speaker will talk about ‘The Fragrant Garden and it’s Plants’. Howard has given excellent travel talks in the past, so this will be a change to hear a different subject from him. He will probably give plant suggestions so this will be a good time to plan new fragrant plants to buy for the coming year. A Bring and Buy Plant Sale will be available as usual at the Hall meetings.

Advance notice of the Gardening Club’s first day trip out to Birmingham Botanic Garden on 18th April. Bookings for this trip will begin soon.

We won’t have too long to wait for the lovely display of spring flowers around the Village including the many roadside daffodils planted by the Club members. A very welcome taste of spring after the long winter months.

Visitors and new members are very welcome at all our meetings. You are sure to have an enjoyable time.

For further information about the Gardening Club please contact Ray and Jill Evans at 99 Wroslyn Rd or ring 881420.

Janet Dalton (Publicity Secretary)

***************************************** WOODSTOCK U3A

We meet at 2pm on the first Tuesday of each month at the Enterprise Centre of Marlborough School, Shipton Road, Woodstock. New and potential members are most welcome. For more information: Sue Hooker (01865) 580688 susan.hooker@talktalk.net OR www.u3asites.org.uk/woodstock

Tuesday 3rd February: Gillian Cane: ‘It’s a Girl’s Life in the Army’

Wednesday 18th February: 10am - Noon: Coffee Morning being held at ‘Ryegrass’, Flemings Road, Woodstock. Info: Ann Applegate 01993 881782

Tuesday 3rd March: Dr Colin Harris: ‘Folklore, Customs and Traditions’

***************************************** TUESDAY CLUB The next meeting will be on Tuesday 3rd February in the Village Hall at 2.30pm. Mrs Diana Norris is the new Chairman. New members are most welcome to come along. Happy New Year!

Beryl Dawes (Secretary) Tel: 01993 883770

24

The Witney Motor Co. Ltd.

Ford Specialists

All make MoT • Service • Repair Diagnostic Equipment

Free collection and delivery • Loan car available

A friendly and reliable service

01993 702620 Avenue 3, Station Lane, Witney, OX28 4BT

DO YOU NEED A PLUMBER?

Plumbing * Heating * Bathrooms Lead Work * Guttering

THEN CALL PETE, THE PLUMBER

Phone 01993 891283

No job too small. Free estimates.

25

FREELAND CRAFT CLUB

New Year and New Crafts to try... A happy New Year party was enjoyed by our members who are now eager to start on some fresh craft items - some suggested by Christmas presents received. We await to see the results!

NEXT MEETINGS: Freeland Methodist Chapel - 2pm to 4pm Weds: February 4th, 11th, 18th & 25th and March 4th & 11th

Costs: £1 per session to cover heating, lighting and refreshments.

Make yourself a New Year Resolution to come and join us for an enjoyable time of friendship whilst crafting. Everyone is welcome, whether you have never done anything like this before, and wish to learn, or you are an expert, keen to share your knowledge and experience with others.

Come and meet new people, make friends and enjoy some refreshments!

For further information (or for someone to go with) please contact:: Margaret Wright: 01993 881316 or Helen Molden: 01993 882305

************************************* FREELAND FOOTBALL CLUB NEWS

First up apologies, due to an Aunt Sally tour there has been a delay in the 200 Club draw, this month’s winners will be announced in next month’s Grapevine.

It has been a fairly quiet past month, and our First team have only played the one game since the last time of writing, the game though was a crucial one which saw 3 valuable points picked up with a 3-1 victory over Launton. The team are now a point above the relegation zone, but have two games in hand over their rivals.

The Ressies continue to improve and this was in evidence with fine wins over local rivals Eynsham in the Clarendon Cup and against Oakley in the league.

The Under 11s have had a long winter break but when they kick off again they are in a fine position of third as they look to pick up where they finished in 2014.

Watch out for more information about the FFC Music Quiz in the March Grapevine.

Onwards and upwards for the New Year.

Matthew Hardy - Freeland Football Club Chairman

************************************* THE UNACCEPTED FREELAND RAMBLERS

The first Sunday of the New Year brought out quite a good crowd of walkers, and two fine dogs, for a pleasant walk to Barnard Gate and back to The Yeoman. Despite the morning being foggy and frosty, this did not put off The Ramblers having their largest group turn out ever. The walk was just over 5 miles and took just less than 2 hours to do and was just the thing that was needed after the excesses of the holiday period. It’s an informal group and should anyone wish to come and join us for a walk, they are most welcome. We leave The Yeoman 09.30am on Sunday 1st February, so why not give it a go?

26

All aspects of Tree Surgery and Hedge maintenance

Professional work carried out by fully

insured people who care

Call Josh for a quote t: 01993 898748 m:07791771542

e: josh@purplejtreecare.com

Zumba

debbiepargeter@gmail.com Pre-booking required on 01993 773385 or 0773 3081620

£5 per class

JOIN THE PARTY

Monday Evenings 6.30 - 7.25pm

Thursday Mornings 9.30 - 10.25am (term time only)

Madness Here

FREELAND VILLAGE HALL

27

FREELAND WI JANUARY MEETING

We were disappointed that our planned speaker from Philosophy Hair in Witney was unable to attend our January meeting due to him participating in a hairdressing competition in London.

We were able to bring our contingency plan into operation and Lesley Jenkins and Lorraine Pengilley raided their stash of beads to make necklaces and memory wire bracelets with the members who attended. Everyone went home wearing something they had made, some even made two necklaces and some felt inspired to do more.

Our next meeting on February 9th will be a speaker from Aldermarston, speaking on ‘What is Forensic Science’. This covers the work carried out in the forensic biology team examining casework exhibits for body fluids, submitting samples for DNA profiling tests, and the interpretation of the DNA results. It also covers the transfer of DNA and some details around attending court. The speaker comes highly recommended by other WI groups.

This is the centenary year of WI and there are lots of celebrations planned for the area which Freeland WI will be participating in.

We look forward to seeing you all at the February meeting. For more information concerning our WI please see our website http://freelandWI.weebly.com or contact Lorraine Pengilley 01993 881129 or lpengilley@btinternet.com

Lorraine Pengilley *************************************

FREELAND HALL TREE LIGHTING EVENT 2014

Once again, the annual tree-lighting event (4th year) at Freeland Hall was a great start to the festive season, and was thoroughly enjoyed by all. This event is run by members of Freeland Hall Management Committee.

The children of Freeland Primary School did a fantastic count-down to the turning on of the lights, which was undertaken by Rev David Tyler. We would like to thank the Reverend for supporting us, and the children for their strong voices!

The children then sang Christmas songs for us all in the hall, with the support of Mr Hill, whilst delicious mince pies, cakes and mulled wine were served. Thank you Mr Hill for organising the children and giving up your own time to be with us. We were very sorry that Mrs McGilvray was unable to join us this year, and we were thinking of her.

Thank you to Helen Mellin for running the Bible Fun Club activity table, and to the Made in Freeland stall who have recently raised over £200 for the Children's Play Park. Well done.

Thanks also to Tim Webster of Freeland Nurseries for his generous donation of a Christmas tree.

And thank you all for joining us at this special village event, with best wishes for a Happy New Year. See you again in December 2015!

JF

28

29

WITNEY MUSIC SOCIETY

The next concert for the Society will be on Friday 13th February at 7.30pm in Wood Green School, Witney

The Selected artist for Making Music, Philip and Dorothy Green Awards for Young Concert Artists 2013 -2014 is Joseph Houston - Piano

Joseph’s programme will include music by Beethoven, Chopin and Debussy

Do visit our website www.witneymusicsociety.org.uk or phone 01993 702296 for further details of the Society and future concerts

****************************************

LOGS FOR LABOUR

Would you like free firewood, or do you have a woodland that needs managing? The Trust for Oxfordshire’s Environment’s “Logs for Labour” programme aims to promote sustainable use of woodfuel by running events where volunteers help to manage woodlands in return for logs. The events are 2-3 hours long and could involve coppicing hazel, thinning trees, or piling up brash. Bring sturdy gloves, shoes and a saw (hand tools only allowed)... or let us know if your woodland needs the help of volunteers. Information about forthcoming events is at www.oxonwoodfuel.org.uk or ‘like’ us at www.facebook.com/oxonwood Riki Therivel 01865 243488

*****************************************

FREELAND MEN’S GROUP (NET/SHED/ASSOCIATION)

The second meeting of the embryonic Net/Shed/Association was held at 7.30pm on Monday 12th January in the Methodist’s Hall. The 18 men who attended enjoyed presentations from Doug Lamb (on Photography), Eric Atherton (on Gliding in the Pyrenees) and Graham Lay (on Fracking).

There was further discussion concerning dates and topics for future meetings and these issues will form part of the agenda for the next meeting which will be held in the Newell Room at the Village Hall on Monday 23rd February at 7.30pm. The first interest group meeting (Photography) met on 14th January - see report below.

A number of new faces were present and newcomers are extremely welcome to join us on the 23rd February.

Graham Warby 881544 grahamwarby@hotmail.co.uk

*****************************************

FREELAND PHOTO GROUP The first meeting of the Photo Group, a spin off from the Men's Net meetings started by Colin Smith, was held in the Newell Room on the 14th January.

Eight of us were treated to a demonstration of digital photo editing by Doug Lamb, followed, after refreshments, by Bruce Hammersley describing his approach to portrait photography. Both of them illustrated their talks with splendid examples using a digital projector.

The next meeting will be in February, further information and details from either Martin Shann (martin@shann.org) or Bruce Hammersley (brucehammersley@gmail.com).

30

Chimney Sweep Bertie the Sweep

Open Fires / Wood burners / Flue Sweeping Prompt, Clean and Efficient Nests Removal - Bird Guards / Cowls Fitted Chimney Pots Supplied and Fitted - Fully Insured ICS Member 411 - Certificates

Tel: 01993 899143 Mob: 07954180371

31

Freeland Open Gardens JUNE 27th / 28th 2015

Dear Fellow Gardener, Your garden may be an immaculate example of your artistic talents, a productive source of food, a tranquil space in which to gather your thoughts or, a lightly managed haven for wildlife Maybe it is a combination of all of these. “Open Gardens” is a wonderful opportunity to share your passion with like-minded people. Please consider opening your garden.

For more information contact: Rosie James 01993 881997 rosieandcolin69@btinternet.com Bridget Crocker 01993 881942 bridget.crocker@btconnect.com Hanne Webster 01993 882002 hanne20@tiscali.co.uk Ria Lay 01993 881464 rialay@oxmembench.co.uk Dawn French 01993 358641 dawn.french63@gmail.com Proceeds will go towards the: ‘Memorial tree planting project’ Commemorating the Freeland Soldiers who lost their lives so courageously during the First & Second World Wars.

Also: The Extension of Freeland Play Park - for older children. NORTH LEIGH HISTORY SOCIETY

Tuesday 3rd February: Charles Dickens: Social Reformer and Medical Observer. A talk by Professor Gregory Stores

Tuesday 3rd March: Glove making in West Oxfordshire. A talk by Carol Anderson

Meetings are at North Leigh Memorial Hall at 7.30pm. Members free, Visitors £2.50

Further details from Diana Power 01993 882301

32

Greens Funeral Services

Established 1866

A family owned business with five generations of experience offering a personal dignified 24 hour service

Private Chapels of Rest

21 High Street, Eynsham, Oxford Tel: 01865 880837 Fax:01865 882831

8 Bridge Street, Witney, Oxford Tel: 01993 776486

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS & SALES

01993 891339

07989 945971

Please visit our website for more details reliablerepairs.co.uk

33

1st HANBOROUGH FREELAND SCOUT GROUP

This is the first report from the scout group this year, so although it is a little late – Happy New Year to you all!

December was a month of celebration, starting with the Beavers and Cubs carol service on 10th December, followed by the Scout awards and review of the year on the 12th.

The carol service, held at St Mary’s Church in Freeland and led by Rev. David Tyler, was a great success. The children had been rehearsing for the preceding weeks and all sang and read beautifully. We also collected a large amount of non-perishable food items to donate to The Besom, a charity who used our donations to make a real difference to local people in need. A huge thank you goes to all who attended and contributed to the service.

The now traditional end-of-year Scout review was another evening enjoyed by Scouts and parents alike. It is an evening where the Scouts presented their experiences of various camps and activities of the past year. An impressive video was also shown of highlights from the year. The evening finished with the presentation of various awards and badges to the Scouts, before mince pies (made by the Scouts’ own fair hands) were served with mulled wine to the parents. It was a great way to round off the year, although we did say goodbye to Martin Dix, who is standing down this year after many years volunteering his time and energy to the troop. Worz is also taking a step back this year, although we will still see him around at various events. Tracy Neville is also stepping down as Beaver Section Leader and will be handing over the reins to Neil Edwards. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank them all for all they have done for our group.

Looking forward to 2015 now…January is when all the sections start back following the Christmas holidays, so at the time of print, I have little to report on. However, 2 major events coming up in February is the Winter Challenge and the trip to Kandersteg.

The Winter Challenge is a hike along the Ridgeway in the South of Oxfordshire that is open to all 5 Scouting sections, leaders and parents. It’s the 25th anniversary this year and will be held on Saturday 7th February. This fundraising event is an 18-mile sponsored hike with funds going towards a replacement minibus for the group.

A small number of our Scouts and Explorers will be spending the February half-term at the Kandersteg International Scout Centre (KISC) in Switzerland. The aim is to complete the KISC Snow Adventure Award which entails completing 7 of the 10 activities which include staying overnight in the snow either in a snow cave or igloo, downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing. It sounds like it will be a great adventure and we look forward to hearing their report when they get back.

Steve Mellin Publicity Representative 1st Hanborough Freeland Scout Group

34

GEOFF BOOTH

PAVING - LANDSCAPING - CONSTRUCTION

Natural Stone Paving & Walling : Patios

Ponds : Blockpave : Fencing : Pergolas : Treework

Driveways : Turfing : Brickwork

Maintenance and Clearance - FREE QUOTATIONS -

Email: geoffboothlandscaping@hotmail.com TEL: (01993) 891945 mob: (07710) 628248

35

SUNDAY IN ACTION AT COMBE MILL www.combemill.org A lovely bright Sunday morning at the beginning of January saw much activity coppicing hazel in the Forest Trail at the Mill. This is needed so the trees do not collapse and pull their roots out of the ground.

William, Tegan and William were whittling sticks for toasting marshmallows and Dave Baldwin showed me how he protected a freshly coppiced hazel from deer, last done 30 years ago. A circular network of hazel brash was wrapped around the cut stems to keep the hungry ruminants at bay. Other trees were coppiced to above the browse height for grazing. This is much quicker but not as attractive.

So why are these people giving up their free time to help?

Rhian Griffiths is keen for her daughters to have a connection to the countryside especially since Tegan was born in the cottage next to the Mill. She feels it's important that the children are able to use tools for cutting wood and experience how nature and humans interact in maintaining the countryside.

Tony Thurlby, our very experienced carpenter carefully selected some of the cut hazel logs for wood turning demonstrations in the Mill.

Phil Grist has lived around Combe all his life and works as a carpenter for C of E Response Maintenance for vicarages. He got involved in the Mill following in his father's footsteps who used to work on a Saturday stripping and pointing fence posts when the Mill was active.

Next Working Party Day Sunday 8th February - anyone welcome.

We are looking for volunteers to serve in our attractive riverside tea room on Sundays from April until October so that we can offer refreshments to visitors to the Mill. A role description can be downloaded from our website: www.combemill.org

Julie Bourchier 01993 898437

36

M: 07970 752 027 H: 01993 835469

T 01993 868663

E info@windowdesign.co

Home Service FREE Quotes and Fitting Tracks and Poles Wide range of fabrics

CURTAINS AND BLINDS

www.windowdesign.co

Made to Measure Curtains and Blinds

37

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

26 Jan Freeland Gardening Club, Freeland Hall, 7.30pm 28 Jan “Grey” week recycling + food + rubbish waste collection 1 Feb Freeland Ramblers, meet at Oxfordshire Yeoman 9.30am 3 Feb Tuesday Club, Freeland Hall 3 Feb Woodstock U3A, Marlborough School, Shipton Road, Woodstock, 2pm 3 Feb North Leigh History Society, North Leigh Memorial Hall, 7.30pm 4 Feb “Green” week recycling + food + garden waste collection 5 Feb Mobile Library at Village Hall (09.20-09.40am) & School (09.45-10.30am) 7 Feb 1st Hanborough Freeland Scout Group Winter Challenge 7 Feb Magic of the Musicals, Village Hall, 7.30pm 9 Feb Women’s Institute meeting, Freeland Hall, 8pm 11 Feb “Grey” week recycling + food + rubbish waste collection 12 Feb Last date for insertions in the March Grapevine 13 Feb Cinema @ Freeland Village Hall, ’Pride’, Cert 15, 7.30pm 13 Feb Witney Music Society Concert, Wood Green School, 7.30pm 16 Feb Freeland Parish Council meeting, Newell Room, 8pm 18 Feb “Green” week recycling + food + garden waste collection 19 Feb Mobile Library at Village Hall (09.20-09.40am) & School (09.45-10.30am) 23 Feb Freeland Gardening Club, Freeland Hall, 7.30pm 23 Feb Freeland Men’s Group (Net/Shed/Association), Newell Room, 7.30pm 25 Feb “Grey” week recycling + food + rubbish waste collection 3 Mar Tuesday Club, Freeland Hall 3 Mar Woodstock U3A, Marlborough School, Shipton Road, Woodstock, 2pm 3 Mar North Leigh History Society, North Leigh Memorial Hall, 7.30pm 4 Mar “Green” week recycling + food + garden waste collection 5 Mar Mobile Library at Village Hall (09.20-09.40am) & School (09.45-10.30am)

Stay or Celebrate at SHEPHERDS HALL

We offer a selection of fully ‘en-suite’ bedrooms fitted with television and tea & coffee facilities. These are available on a nightly or weekly basis,

or for longer periods, if required.

We also cater for all types of Family Functions in our attractive Lounge Bar with its open log fire

in winter and adjacent Function Room.

For further information, phone Liz or David Fyson 01993 881256

38

SMALL ADVERTISEMENTS

CATKINS Genuine Cat Lover available for home visits whilst you are out or on holiday. References available. Tel: 01993 880237

DIRTY CARPETS? GRUBBY UPHOLSTERY? Friendly, Local Service. Unbeatable Rates. Call GRIMEBUSTERS - 01993 868924

FOR SALE - LOCALLY REARED PORK & LAMB - Cut and packed - ready for your freezer. Ring for details 01993 773851 or 07885 040510

LINEDANCE CLASSES at Freeland Village Hall, Tuesdays 12.15-1.45pm Intermediates, Thursdays 5-6pm Beginners, Thursdays 6-7pm Improvers. Contact Chris for more info - christinec48@hotmail.com (or tel 01608 676724)

CARE IN THE HOME Experienced, consistently kind and patient, honest, intelligent, reliable, insured carer/ companion/ driver available to assist the elderly to continue to live in their own homes. Excellent references & CV. St. John Ambulance First Aid and Moving & Handling People. Times available to suit client's needs. Ali Collett 07831 206626; aliski@talktalk.net

*********************************** The deadline for articles or adverts for the March ‘Grapevine’ is the 12th FEBRUARY.

We welcome handwritten or typed articles and adverts. However, if at all possible, please send by email, formatted to fit an A5 magazine - it will certainly help to reduce the number of our mistakes! The font we use is Gill Sans MT at 10 point.

The cost of a Small Advertisement is 18p per word. Please make cheques payable to ‘FREELAND GRAPEVINE’. Contact Kenny Wylie about costs for other adverts. 1/3rd page size is 60mm high x 120mm wide, 1/2 page size is 90mm high x 120mm wide

Adverts: grapevineadverts@gmail.com

Articles: freelandgrapevine@gmail.com

Or mail: Kenny Wylie,1 Blenheim Lane, Freeland, Witney OX29 8AW 01993 883245

Note Please put your name and telephone number on all adverts/articles in case we need to contact you. These will only be printed if requested by you.

The editor reserves the right to edit all copy. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information, liability cannot be

accepted for any errors or omissions in compiling this magazine. Neither the Church, the Editor nor the Printer assume responsibility for any effects arising therefrom.

************************************* EXERCISE GROUP Come and join our friendly exercise group run by an Age UK tutor at the Village Hall, Fridays 10.00am - 11.00am First taster session is free. To suit all abilities (seated or standing). These classes are to build muscle strength & help prevent falls.

Have fun and sing along to the music too.

Contact Olwen Radburn on 773432 or olwen44@tiscali.co.uk to find out more.

39

Oxfordshire Yeoman

Monday 26th January Helen & Douglas House Quiz 8pm

Monday 2nd February African Children’s Fund Quiz 8pm

Tuesday 10th February Pre-school Quiz 8pm

Friday 13th February Cinema Night @ Freeland Hall 7.30pm “Pride” (Cert 15) Tickets on sale in pub in February

Saturday 14th February Valentine’s Night

Monday 23rd February Helen & Douglas House Quiz 8pm

Thursdays 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th February - 8.15pm - BINGO!

Thank You for your support - Trevor & the team

Telephone: 01993 881003 www.oxfordshire-yeoman.co.uk

40