Honeycomb March 2011
Rector's Remarks
A buzzword that I hear a lot nowadays is “transparency”. It seems particularly popular in political circles and in the operations of public organisations. Transparency seems to mean that we should know exactly what is being said, what is being considered and what is going on at all times. I think therefore that transparency means we should always know the truth. But should we? There have been four high profile situations recently involving the media and their search for “the truth”.
The first occurred last year when someone, probably an employee in the Houses of Parliament, leaked the full details of MPs’ expenses to the Daily Telegraph. The consequences continue to be felt to this day and there has been full acceptance that this leak was good.
The second episode is the comments made by the Sky football commentators, Andy Gray and Richard Keys. Their highly sexist comments, which they thought were being made privately, were recorded and then leaked. Andy Gray was suspended and then sacked whilst Richard Keys has resigned. Such an outcome has been seen as wholly appropriate.
The third episode is Wikileaks headed by Julian Assange. Wikileaks, as its name implies, obtains documents not in the public domain by means of individuals with access to such documents leaking or giving them to Wikileaks. Late last year Wikileaks started to published some of the 251,287 US secret diplomatic cables that had been leaked to them. This action has received a mixed response. Some support Wikileaks believing that democracy is best served without government secrecy so that the electorate are fully informed. Others criticised the publication as potentially jeopardising international relations and global security.
The final episode is the News of the World phone tapping story. A journalist and a private investigator have both served prison sentences for their phone tapping and a police investigation is still continuing. From what I understand, the phone tapping took place to discover what celebrities and politicians were saying in private in the hope that indiscretions might be uncovered. All commentators have condemned this phone tapping.
I have to say I am pushed to see the moral difference between the covert methods used in each of those episodes. Each method was basically the same. It involved using private and often confidential information obtained without the consent of the parties concerned. All methods made public what the people concerned wished to keep private. Is it right to use such methods?
That might depend on the type of information obtained. In the above four episodes, there is clearly a difference in the type of information leaked. Some of the information is on subjects about which we feel we should know and some of which we might feel we do not need to know or should not know for the sake of the greater good.
All those episodes, particularly the phone tapping one, got me wondering how I would feel if all my private conversations or emails were published. Would there be anything I would regret? Am I ever indiscrete? Is there anything I ever want to keep confidential? If it was likely that my phone might be tapped or my email hacked would it change the level of openness I could express in private? Although generally I cannot think of any specific examples (other than the confidentiality one) I suspect the answer to all those questions is yes. I wonder what your answers are to those questions?
The most high profile case I know of someone who kept the truth from the public was Jesus. He knew he was the Messiah, the Son of God. However, for most of his ministry he did not say so publicly. When he did tell his closest followers he told them not to tell anyone else. The reason why Jesus was not transparent was because he knew that the authorities would fear the Messiah and kill him. He knew that eventually he would be killed but he could not let that happen until he had completed his ministry of teaching and healing. He had good reason to be secretive but today it is very likely that someone (possibly Judas Iscariot) would have leaked it so cutting short Jesus’ ministry.
So is knowing the truth, having complete transparency, always an unmitigated good? I fear not. We should be cautious in encouraging the use of covert methods to access private and secret information. The right to know the truth comes at the loss of the right to privacy. It might be the great and the (not so) good that are affected now but how far will it spread – to your phone - to your computer?
Jan Brookshaw
Return to Menu
Stodden's Future
During the Autumn of 2010 the Joint Parochial Church Council (JPCC) of the Stodden Churches engaged with a representative sample of its villagers to obtain views and information on the current setup of the Group and to gauge opinion on a range of future options. The main drivers for what was called ‘The Stodden Conversation’ are diminishing numbers attending worship and associated financial pressures which may, in future, result in losing a full time vicar. A lengthy report has been produced from the results of the forms, which the JPCC are now considering further. We would now like to feedback to you some of the major themes of this initiative.
The Stodden conversation document was developed by the JPCC and the completed responses have been compiled, collated and analysed by an independent party. Each Parochial Church Council (PCC) has returned response forms either completed in discussion with the respondent face to face, by telephone or by the individual themselves.
There were a total of 141 forms submitted: Dean: 30, Melchbourne: 27, Pertenhall: 17, Shelton: 16, Swineshead: 15, Yelden: 36. A good sample of gender, age and commitment or otherwise to the church / worship has been evidenced.
The results were presented to the JPCC in three groups, where considered to be appropriate:
· Total for all responses across all six parishes
· Responses marked as strong or moderate to the two questions ‘commitment to worship at the village church and/or Group’ - totalling 83 papers
· Parish
It is clear from the results that opinion was divided on many of the key questions; therefore a clear course for future direction is not immediately evident. Indeed there are strongly held polar views on many of the areas discussed
Summary statements for discussion:
| 1. | The age bracket ‘Under 30’ is under-represented but this possibly reflects demographics locally. |
| 2. | There is still a lack of awareness / confusion as to which parishes make up the Stodden Churches and how the churches are financed. Communication channels for this information will be reviewed further.Notes from Meeting of Dean & Shelton Parish Council |
| 3. | Commitment percentage ‘Strong’ is highest (38%) to fabric and maintenance of their own village church and lowest (12%) for worshipping in other Stodden churches. |
| 4. | The church building is important (97%) but less important as a place of regular worship (82%). Intermittent worship (Carols, harvest etc) is seen as slightly more important (97%) than occasional worship (weddings, baptisms, funerals) at 92%. |
| 5. | The results seem to indicate a failure of the Church nationally to communicate the true role of the church and ordained ministers, illustrated by expectations expressed in Stodden that would probably be replicated elsewhere. |
| 6. | A larger percentage of ‘strong/moderate’ respondents compared to total respondents see a full time vicar position as desirable (84% compared to 70%). Many ask about a part time position. |
| 7. | Pastoral Support is seen as the most important function of a vicar. It should be remembered that the Vicar is present at Morning Prayer at 9am in each of the villages on a rotation basis as a regular contact point for parishioners and villagers. See Honeycomb for dates. |
| 8. | The ‘strong/moderate’ respondents are less in favour of a bigger group than the total percentage (70% compared to 55%). |
| 9. | There are a number of respondents who indicated that they would be willing to contribute to costs - (23% yes, 9% possibly). |
| 10. | Facilities are not a barrier to church attendance. |
| 11. | The majority of respondents are against internal modernisation involving removal of pews. Strongly held opinions and views were presented on both sides of the argument. |
| 12. | The village halls and their associated facilities are given as reasons against alteration of the fabric and use of the church building for other activities / functions. |
| 13. | Most would prefer a church building as a venue for worship. |
| 14. | The 9am service is appreciated by many church attendees for its quietness and peace. The 6pm service is least popular due to timing. |
| 15. | A complete range of churchmanship is requested from high church to informal. |
| 16. | Day and times of services are acceptable with some slight variance noted. |
Many villagers will have been surprised to have been consulted and to learn that their opinions are in fact needed. We hope that this exercise will have gone some way to increasing understanding that the Stodden Churches, and even their own local church is under threat. The JPCC would like to thank all of the residents who took part in the survey.
It is believed that the analyses and resulting document; which are still being assessed, has enabled us to quantify opinion in a way that we could not previously. This will enable the JPCC to progress their discussions, having gauged differences between the parishes and having a better understanding of the challenges that may arise with any given solution. This will aid the JPCC move on to further processes involving deep consideration, discussion and prayer. The JPCC is most grateful to the church representatives, many of whom gave of their time and commitment to have relational, one to one, lengthy conversations in this way.
William Tusting,
Chairman, Stodden JPCC
Return to Menu
Lent Compline
It being Lent from 9th March, once again we set some extra time aside to quietly worship God one evening a week. As usual we will be using the service of Compline which lasts about 20 minutes. The word Compline comes from the Latin “completus” which means completion. Compline is said when the day is complete and is intended to wind us down ready for a good night’s sleep assured of God’s love and protection. Do join us at 8pm at the following venues:
| Monday 14th March | Rosie Morgan, The Oaks, Spring Lane, Yelden |
| Monday 21st March | John Braga, Crown Cottage, Lower Dean |
| Monday 28th March | Heather & John Wells, The Old Rectory, Shelton< |
| Monday 4th April | Alison & Robin Mackonochie, The Croft, Park rd, Melchbourne |
| Monday 11th April | Jan Brookshaw, The Rectory, Upper Dean |
| Monday 18th April | Jan Brookshaw, The Rectory, Upper Dean |
Return to Menu
Lent Lunches
Our Lent course feeds us intellectually and Lent Complines feed us spiritually. But what about our physical bodies? Well come to our Lent lunches for a simple, nourishing lunch of soup and cheese with good company. Donations for the costs of the meal and to give to our Stodden charities are welcome but the important thing is to come and enjoy yourself. Each lunch starts at 12.30pm, finishing around 2pm.
| Wednesday March 16th | Emma Seddon, Manor Farm, Swineshead |
| Thursday March 24th | Sue & Mike Taylor, The Old Post Office, Yelden |
| Thursday March 31st | Vicki Beers, Shelton Hall, Shelton |
| Thursday April 7th | Sarah Croft, Meadow Cottage, Knotting Road, Melchbourne |
| Thursday April 14th | Lindsay Langley, Te Aroha, Aylott Close, Upper Dean |
| Thursday April 21st | Julie Botterill, 36 Wood End, Pertenhall |
| Thursday 25th February | Sarah Croft, Meadow Cottage, Knotting Road, Melchbourne |
Return to Menu
Lent Course – Living God’s love
This year we will be holding a Lent course at The Rectory on Sunday evenings from 6pm to 7pm on the following Sundays: 13th March, 20th March, 27th March, 3rd April, 10th April, 17th April.
Our Bishops have written the programme building on Bishop Alan’s vision for the diocese called “Living God’s Love”. There are three strands to this overall vision:
Ø going deeper into God
Ø transforming communities
Ø making new disciples.
Each strand will be explored in two sessions. Each session will be a bible study with discussion. Each session is standalone so if you cannot make all the sessions that will be fine but it would be great to see you at all of them.
If you want to have an advanced look at the course you can find further information at:www.livinggodslove.org/living_gods_love/lent/the_bishops_lent_course/
Jan Brookshaw
Return to Menu
So what’s so special about Lent, anyway?
Lent begins on 9 March with Ash Wednesday, which always falls in the seventh week before Easter. Lent is widely observed by Christians as a time of fasting or meditation.
Why ‘Ash Wednesday’? What do ashes have to do with anything? This recalls the Old Testament custom of putting ashes on oneself as a symbol of repentance. (eg. Esther 4.1; Jeremiah 6.26). When the early Church began to observe Lent as a period of preparation for Easter, repentance played a key part. Therefore the wearing of ashes was adopted as a proper external sign of this inward attitude of remorse and repentance. Nowadays many churches begin Lent by imposing ashes on the heads of the clergy and the people. The ashes used come from the burning of the palm crosses from Palm Sunday during the previous year’s Lent.
What about the custom of giving up things? Lent is based on the period of 40 days spent by Jesus in the wilderness before the beginning of his public ministry in Galilee. Jesus fasted for 40 days, and so his followers were encouraged to do the same thing. The early Church recommended a fast of two or three days, but by the fourth century, people were encouraged to fast for the full 40 days. The precise nature of this ‘fasting’ varied. In general, the western church understood ‘fasting’ as a reduced intake of food, and encouraged Christians to spend time in devotional reading or attendance at church rather than fasting.
What about the length of Lent? The period between Ash Wednesday and Easter Day is actually 46 days. Why not the 40 days that Jesus fasted? Every Sunday was regarded as a celebration of the resurrection of Christ - so fasting should not occur on a Sunday! So the period of 46 days thus consists of 40 days of fasting, plus the six Sundays which fall between Ash Wednesday and Easter Day.
Finally, just before Ash Wednesday, we have Shrove Tuesday, or Pancake Tuesday. This reflects the many thousands of Christian housewives down the centuries who cleared out their larders immediately before the fast of Lent. The simplest way of using up all their eggs, flour and milk was to make pancakes. In some countries the day is known as Mardi Gras, and is marked by major carnivals, most famously in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Jan Brookshaw
Return to Menu
All in the month of March
| 175 years ago: | on 6 Mar 1836 that the Siege of the Alamo ended; the Mexican forces defeated the Texans. |
| Also 175 years ago, | on 12th March 1836 that Mrs (Isabella) Beeton, British cookery writer, was born. |
| 150 years ago, | on 4th Mar 1861 that Abraham Lincoln was inaugurated as the 16th President of the USA. |
| Also 150 years ago, | on 17th Mar 1861 that the Kingdom of Italy was officially proclaimed. |
| 125 years ago, | on 10th Mar 1886 that Charles Cruft, founder of the world’s premiere dog show, held his first dog show in London. Initially the shows were only for terriers. The first show to bear Cruft’s name, and open to all breeds, was held in 1891. |
| 100 years ago, | on 16th Mar 1911 that Josef Mengele, notorious German physician and Nazi officer was born. He selected prisoners for execution in gas chambers and conducted medical experiments on inmates at the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp. |
| 90 years ago, | on 17th Mar 1921 that British doctor Marie Stopes opened the Mothers’ Clinic in London. It was the UK’s first family planning clinic. |
| Also 90 years ago, | on 19th Mar 1921 that Tommy Cooper, Welsh comedian and magician, was born. |
| 75 years ago, | on 4th Mar 1936 that the German airship, ‘Hindenburg’, made its first flight. |
| 70 years ago, | on 11th Mar 1941, that the US Congress passed the Lend—Lease Act, through which it provided its allies (notably Britain) with war supplies. |
| 65 years ago, | on 25th Mar 1946 that London’s Heathrow Airport was officially opened. |
| 50 years ago, | on 8th Mar 1961 that Sir Thomas Beecham, British conductor and impresarios, died. He transformed the operatic and orchestral scene in Britain. |
| 30 years ago, | on 1st Mar 1981 that IRA member Bobby Sands began a hunger strike at the Maze Prison, Northern Ireland. (Died 5th May) |
| 25 years ago, | on 13th Mar 1986 that Microsoft went public, making its Initial Public Offering (IPO). |
| Also 25 years ago, | on 31st Mar 1986, that Hampton Court Palace, Richmond, London, was severely damaged by fire. |
| 15 years ago, | on 13th Mar 1996, that the Dunblane Massacre took place. A gunman killed 16 children and a teacher at a primary school in Dunblane, Scotland. |
| 10 years ago, | on 8th Mar 2001, that the wreck of Donald Campbell’s speedboat ‘Bluebird’ was recovered from the bottom of Coniston Water, Cumbria, UK. It had lain there since January 1967 when Campbell crashed while attempting to break the world water speed record. |
Return to Menu
Why breaking up may be harder for men
Traditionally, women were thought to suffer more at the ending of a relationship – all those tears and all those phone calls to girlfriends to sympathise. But recent research has found that though men may not be so demonstrative, that does not mean that they don’t find a romantic crash just as traumatic - if not more so.
For women usually have a better network of close friends with whom they can share their feelings, and who will give them emotional support. A man, on the other hand, may just have had his partner to confide in. When she is gone, he is really alone – and vulnerable. Because although a man may have other men as friends, such relationships tend to be more competitive than nurturing. When a relationship breaks up, women express emotional distress and depression while men are in danger of turning to drink or drugs. The study was carried out partly at University College, London.
Certainly the Bible understands the good that love can bring into someone’s life. It says: “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work; if one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone?” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-11).
Return to Menu
Haiti – still lots to rebuild
If you’ve seen the recent TV reports on Haiti, you will know that life there has hardly returned to normal! Many relief organisations are still hard at work on the island.
For example, just over one year on, Samaritan’s Purse has built over 10,000 homes, been involved in feeding over 345,000 people, provided water filter for over 20 communities and consistently run hospitals and medical clinics for those in need. As one staff member says: “Many lives have been impacted - physically and spiritually - as we have worked with local churches and communities in some of the hardest and gruelling conditions we have ever known. This has certainly been the largest emergency response ever in our history.”
In recent months, more than 300 medical personnel have been deployed by Samaritans Purse in the fight against cholera, the waterborne disease that has already claimed over 3,000 lives. “Doctors and nurses are up against it, working long shifts in gruelling heat to bring rest, peace and restoration to thousands of people.”
Samaritans Purse also runs the shoe box appeal to which so many of you gnerously contribute. If you would like to support this work in Haiti, please go to:www.samaritans-purse.org.uk/
Return to Menu
2011 Census Summary
The next Census will take place on 27th March 2011. Every household in England and Wales needs to complete a questionnaire so that statistics about the population can be produced. Government money for health, police , councils and other public service providers is allocated according to the population of an area, so it is vital that everyone is counted. Make sure your area gets its fair share of Government money. Questionnaires will be delivered from 7th March so look out for the purple logo, and complete and return the form as soon as you can.
Key messages.
Everyone living in your household on 27th March needs to be included on the questionnaire.
All citizens have a duty to complete the census questionnaire. It is also a legal requirement, and refusal to complete the questionnaire may result in prosecution and a fine.
You can choose to complete the questionnaire on-line or by hand. The questionnaire has enough room for six people. It takes only 10 minutes for each adult, and much less for each child. If you have more than 6 people in your household, request additional individual questionnaires from the website or telephone 0300 0201 101.
There is lots of help available. From 4th March you can telephone 0300 0201 101 to request guidance in over 50 languages and in accessible formats such as large print, Braille and British Sign language.
You can request a personal visit from a Census Collector who will come to your home. The number for text relay for hard of hearing is 18001 0300 0201 160
The Census website contains lots of information about the Census at www.census.gov.uk
From 6th April Census Collectors will visit households that have not returned their questionnaire. They will carry identification. People who refuse to complete a census questionnaire will be investigated, and this may lead to prosecution and a fine.
Census questionnaire completion events
If you need help, want to ask questions, or want to complete your census questionnaire on-line, please come along to one of the completion events. Check the local council website for the latest information. These are the events arranged so far:
In recent months, more than 300 medical personnel have been deployed by Samaritans Purse in the fight against cholera, the waterborne disease that has already claimed over 3,000 lives. “Doctors and nurses are up against it, working long shifts in gruelling heat to bring rest, peace and restoration to thousands of people.”
Samaritans Purse also runs the shoe box appeal to which so many of you gnerously contribute. If you would like to support this work in Haiti, please go to:www.samaritans-purse.org.uk/
Return to Menu
2011 Census Summary
The next Census will take place on 27th March 2011. Every household in England and Wales needs to complete a questionnaire so that statistics about the population can be produced. Government money for health, police , councils and other public service providers is allocated according to the population of an area, so it is vital that everyone is counted. Make sure your area gets its fair share of Government money. Questionnaires will be delivered from 7th March so look out for the purple logo, and complete and return the form as soon as you can.
Key messages.
Everyone living in your household on 27th March needs to be included on the questionnaire.
All citizens have a duty to complete the census questionnaire. It is also a legal requirement, and refusal to complete the questionnaire may result in prosecution and a fine.
You can choose to complete the questionnaire on-line or by hand. The questionnaire has enough room for six people. It takes only 10 minutes for each adult, and much less for each child. If you have more than 6 people in your household, request additional individual questionnaires from the website or telephone 0300 0201 101.
There is lots of help available. From 4th March you can telephone 0300 0201 101 to request guidance in over 50 languages and in accessible formats such as large print, Braille and British Sign language.
You can request a personal visit from a Census Collector who will come to your home. The number for text relay for hard of hearing is 18001 0300 0201 160
The Census website contains lots of information about the Census at www.census.gov.uk
From 6th April Census Collectors will visit households that have not returned their questionnaire. They will carry identification. People who refuse to complete a census questionnaire will be investigated, and this may lead to prosecution and a fine.
Census questionnaire completion events
If you need help, want to ask questions, or want to complete your census questionnaire on-line, please come along to one of the completion events. Check the local council website for the latest information. These are the events arranged so far:
| Date | Venue | Time |
| Monday 28th March | Kempston Library | 11am to 4pm |
| Wednesday 30th March | Bedford Learning Centre | |
| 88 High Street, Bedford | 10am to 2pm | |
| Thursday 31st March | TNG Eagle Court, | |
| 47 Harpur Street, Bedford | 2pm to 4pm | |
| Saturday 2nd April | Bedford Learning Centre 9am to 1pm | |
| Monday 4th April | Sandy Library | 10am to 3pm |
| Wednesday 6th April | Bedford Learning Centre | 10am to 2pm |
| Thursday 7th April | TNG, Eagle Court, | |
| 47 Harpur Street, Bedford | 2pm to 4pm | |
| Saturday 9th April | Bedford Learning Centre | 9am to 1pm |
| Monday 11th April | Putnoe Library | 2pm to 5pm |
| Wednesday 20th April | Putnoe Library | 2pm to 5pm |
| REMEMBER TO BRING ALONG YOUR CENSUS QUESTIONNAIRE | ||
Return to Menu
Kimbolton Flower Club
'The Bag Lady' is the title of the flower arranging demonstration to be given by Claire Allen at the next Club meeting
in The Mandeville Hall, Kimbolton on 15 March at 7.30pm. Visitors are welcome, admission 5 pounds.
Also in March, we will be holding a Charity Afternoon Tea in the Dalton Hall at Dean which will include
a shirt sale and raffle. This will be on Thursday, 24 March, from 2.30pm to 4.30 pm. Admission for
members and visitors 5 pounds. All are very welcome.
Many thanks
Sue Fawcett
Return to Menu
A sad loss to Stodden
Peter and Rosemary arrived in Yelden 22 years ago and it wasn’t long before Peter became a welcome Church Warden for St Mary’s where he served and was fully involved till the very end. He was a member of our own PCC and also became lay Chairman and subsequently Secretary of the JPCC. Never one to avoid responsibility he was currently lay Chairman of the Deanery Synod.
Peter was involved in all aspects of village life, a member of the Village Hall Committee, joint organiser with Mike Pond of our unique Strawberry Fayre and a member of the Friends of St Mary’s committee.
There won’t be a village in Stodden which hasn’t benefited from Peter Morgan’s wisdom and cheerful countenance. Always there to provide guidance to individuals or groups.
Peter will leave a hole in much of village life.
Return to Menu
Melchbourne and Yelden Parish Council
Melchbourne and Yelden Parish Council
Chairman: Mrs Judy Stewart
Clerk:Mrs Garry Telling
Tel: 01480 860 439
At the meeting held in Yelden Village Hall on Wednesday, 19th January, 2011, six Councillors and two Borough Councillors were present.
There was 1 members of the public in attendance.
Judy Stewart was in the chair.
The following discussions took place and decisions were made:-
Sue Fawcett
Return to Menu
A sad loss to Stodden
Peter and Rosemary arrived in Yelden 22 years ago and it wasn’t long before Peter became a welcome Church Warden for St Mary’s where he served and was fully involved till the very end. He was a member of our own PCC and also became lay Chairman and subsequently Secretary of the JPCC. Never one to avoid responsibility he was currently lay Chairman of the Deanery Synod. Peter was involved in all aspects of village life, a member of the Village Hall Committee, joint organiser with Mike Pond of our unique Strawberry Fayre and a member of the Friends of St Mary’s committee.
There won’t be a village in Stodden which hasn’t benefited from Peter Morgan’s wisdom and cheerful countenance. Always there to provide guidance to individuals or groups.
Peter will leave a hole in much of village life.
Return to Menu
Melchbourne and Yelden Parish Council
Melchbourne and Yelden Parish Council
Chairman: Mrs Judy Stewart
Clerk:Mrs Garry Telling
Tel: 01480 860 439
At the meeting held in Yelden Village Hall on Wednesday, 19th January, 2011, six Councillors and two Borough Councillors were present.
There was 1 members of the public in attendance.
Judy Stewart was in the chair.
The following discussions took place and decisions were made:-
There was 1 members of the public in attendance.
| § | Grants have been allocated to the Parish Council to - mend the bus shelter in Yelden and - clear out the pond. |
| § | The Parish precept for 2011/12 will remain unchanged. |
| § | Councillor Helen Bone [HB] reported on the road works which should take place. |
| § | The request for a salt bin at the entrance to Trailly Close, Yelden, was again put to the Beds Borough Council [BBC] and Borough Councillor McMurdo said he would try to arrange for one to be placed where needed. |
| § | There were still complaints about loud grinding noise all through the night. The clerk found that the Environment Agency would listen to complaints from individuals but not a representative of the parish council objecting on behalf of the residents. |
| § | There will be Parish Council elections on the first Thursday in May. These will take place at the same time as other elections, such as the Borough Council elections. |
The complete minutes, including planning information and financial matters, will be available on the Parish Council web site, and on the notice boards. Agenda for the next meeting will be posted likewise at least a week before the next meeting.
The next meeting will be on Wed, 16th March, 2011, in Yelden Village Hall.
This is the Meeting for the Electors at which any resident may raise any matter relevant to the community.
THIS IS AN OPEN MEETING AND EVERYONE IS WELCOME TO ATTEND.Return to Menu
Dean & Shelton Parish Council
Notes from Meeting of Dean & Shelton Parish Council
This is the Meeting for the Electors at which any resident may raise any matter relevant to the community.
THIS IS AN OPEN MEETING AND EVERYONE IS WELCOME TO ATTEND.
Return to Menu
Dean & Shelton Parish Council
Notes from Meeting of Dean & Shelton Parish Council| 1. | Minutes of Meeting 10 November 2010 were confirmed as a correct record and signed by the Chairman. | |
| 2. | Parish Precept Form 2011-2012 was completed and signed in the amount of £4286. | |
| 3. | A financial statement to 31 December 2010 was circulated to Councillors. At the present time, with no uncleared cheques, the balance in the Community Account is £2125.97. The Business Premium Account stands at £9315.47. | |
| 4. | A Review of Effectiveness of Internal Audit was carried out and accepted by the Parish Council. | |
| 5. | A Review of Risk Management Policy was carried out and accepted by the Parish Council. | |
| 6. | The payment of the following accounts was approved: | |
| o | AC Summerfield - second & final grass cuts invoice 2750 £1410.00(Highways Act 1980 s96) | |
| 0 | Dean & Shelton Social Association hire of Dalton Hall 2009 invoice 099 £90.00 (LGA1972 s111) | |
| o | Dean & Shelton Social Association hire of Dalton Hall 2010 invoice 100 £135.00 (LGA1972 s111) | |
| o | East Northants Council – walk leaflet printing invoice 0387778 £176.25 (LGA1972 s144) (MoM 8/9/10 item 5a) | |
| o | Clerk salary 3 months to 31 September 2010 £412.50 (LGA1972 S.112) | |
| o | Office expenses – Printer cartridges £31.03 (LGA1972 S.111) | |
| o | Office expenses – Purchase of memory stick £15.59 (LGA1972 S.111) (MoM 12/5/10 Item 6a | |
| 7. | Response received from Bedford Borough Council regarding the minimum setback distance for wind turbines. | |
| 8. | Application 10/00484/MAF – construction of wind turbines at Chelveston Airfield. Letters had been received from Bedford Borough & East Northants Planning Departments enclosing a new technical review and a new cumulative zone of theoretical visibility figure 5.81. It was resolved that the Clerk be asked to respond re-iterating the Parish Council’s previously stated objections on the basis of visual impact. | |
| 9. | Letter from Dean & Shelton Social Association requesting support and that Grant payments towards the upgrading of the kitchen be channelled through the Parish Council. It was resolved that the parish council supported this and were willing for Grant payments to come through the Parish council. Powers to complete the WREN form were delegated to the Chair and the Clerk. | |
| 10. | A Communication Regarding the Census requesting assistance in publicising. The Clerk was asked to request posters and ask if leaflets could be placed at The Three Compasses. | |
| 11. | A Request for Assistance from Stevington PC was considered. It was resolved that no comment should be made. | |
| 12. | A Communication from Amey Regarding Speed Concerns was considered. The Clerk was asked to advise a speed limit was required on “Village Road” Shelton and a rumble strip at Lower Dean. | |
| 13. | A Communication from Beds Highways Regarding Feedback on the Local Transport Plan Strategy was considered and it was resolved that no comment would be made. | |
| 14. | A Parish Plan Monitoring Table was completed and the Clerk asked to respond. It was resolved that a standard agenda item “Parish Plan Updates” would be put in place. | |
| 15. | Purchase of Additional Salt Bins Subject to suitable locations being identified, it was resolved to purchase salt bins. The Clerk & Cllr Alder were delegated to contact Andrew Prigmore to visit and discuss possible locations at the junction of Brook Lane & the High Street; junction of Shay Lane & High Street; junction of Church Lane & Brook Lane. | |
| 16. | Date for next meeting 9 February 2011 (if required) at United Ref | |
Return to Menu
Kitchen Manager wanted
Stables Christian Centre
We are looking to appoint a kitchen manager for 15 hours per week ideally from 1st March 2011. The current postholder is retiring at the end of March which hopefully allowing an overlap. This person is a key member of our small staff team and will be responsible for all activities of the kitchen department. This includes the planning and production of food items for sale, in particular preserves and cakes, and the supervision and training of adults with special needs who come to the Centre. You will need to be a good team worker but be able to work independently, enjoy cooking and have an empathy with our clientele. Patience and a sense of humour are a great help. The find out more about us, please visit our website, www.stableschristiancentre.co.uk. For more details of the post available, and/or to arrange an informal visit, please contact Alison Wood at the Centre, tel.: 01234376237; admin@stableschristiancente.co.uk
The Stables Christian Centre, Bolnhurst, Bedford, MK44 2ES
Return to Menu
Return to Menu
Dean
Correspondent- Annette Brooks
Collection of Bulky Waste
Please take your domestic waste to the following location:
Sunday 22nd May 2011
Shelton Near Triangle Junction, Shelton 1.00pm Until 1.30pm
Lower Dean East of bridge, Lower Dean 1.30pm Until 2.30pm
Upper Dean Top of Shay Lane/High Street 2.30pm Until 4.00pm
Times are approximate to allow for travel between sites
PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE RUBBISH AT THE SITE IF THE COLLECTION VEHICLES ARE NOT THERE
Return to Menu
Pertenhall
Correspondent- Chloe Reid
Return to Menu
March Litter Pick
The next village litter pick is on Saturday 26th March, 10.30am at Pertenhall Village Hall. All equipment is provided. Join in and do your bit for the community.
100 Club Results
January Draw
No
No.113
No 43
No 22
No 29
No 128
No 39
Name
Mrs R Day
Mrs E Hayter
Mrs M Hackney
Mr P Goodge
Mrs R MacKillop
Mr P Goodge
Mr P Knightely
Amount
£ 20
£ 10
£ 7
£ 5
£ 5
£ 5
February Draw
No
No.51
No.1
No.91
No.21
No.84
No.86
Name
Mrs G Telling
Mr E Williams
Mr R Roddis
Mr & Mrs T Kingham
Mrs Mary Bates
Mrs S Hampson
Amount
£ 20
£ 10
£ 7
£ 5
£ 5
£ 5
Mothers’ Union
The next meeting of the Mothers Union is on Wednesday 16th at 2.30pm in Pertenhall Village Hall.
We thoroughly enjoyed Linda Simister’s talk in January on her life and the way she was able to serve her Church, neighbours and family, through difficult times and good. In March we will welcome back Rev Paul Langham. He has been twice before and with a well selected programme of music we have been able to relax and yet been challenged by the comments he makes as introduction to the pieces.
If you are free 2.30 to 4pm why not join us? You do not have to join as a member unless you wish to. We have been heartened by those who have come as visitors in past months. Programmes are available from Gillian Aylott by calling 01234 708174.
St Peter’s Pertenhall
St. Peter’s Church will be closed during March whilst redecoration of the interior is taking place.
The Churchwardens would like to thank the Friends of St Peter’s for their generosity, since it is due to their regular donations that the PCC now feels able to proceed with further redecoration of the interior of the Church.
The Friends of St. Peter’s and villagers have generously supported the various fundraising events held to raise money for our church over many years. Money raised at these functions is used for the insurance, maintenance and restoration of our church building and churchyard. As we do not receive financial assistance from The Church of England or central government sources, we rely on your support to keep the church building in a good state of repair. The Churchwardens and the members of the PCC would like to express their thanks for all your support in the past and we hope that this will continue in the future.
We would also like to thank all those who regularly give of their time to clean or decorate the Church with flowers. It is very much appreciated by all those who attend or visit our church.
If anyone would like more information about becoming a Friend of St Peter’s, please make contact with one of the Churchwardens.
Pertenhall P.C.C
Return to Menu
Melchbourne
Correspondent – Philip Pahl
Audrey Lawson Johnson
It is a pity that the newspaper obituaries focused on just the Lusitania moment in the life of Audrey, who died on 11 January.
The Melchbourne website carries a fuller appreciation of her subsequent life , and it also gives some of the flavour of the character of this interesting woman. It is too long for inclusion in a Parish magazine.
If you do not have Internet access, a hard copy can be sent to you if you would leave your name and address on 01234 709433
You can see a fuller obituary of Audrey on the Melchbourne web site at www.mmmatemelchbourne.
Church Cleaning and Flowers Rota
There is a regular church cleaning rota and volunteers are always welcome. Anyone wishing to be included on the rota should contact Audrey on 01234 708728.
Village dates for your diary:
Tuesday April 5th 8:00pmThe Village Hall AGM will be held on Tuesday, 5th April at 8.00 in the village hall. Everyone is invited to attend and refreshments will be served.
Saturday May 21st Party to celebrate the re-opening of the Village Hall, with its new facilities.
Saturday June 25th Safari Supper
Sunday July 10th The 747th Melchbourne Feast Day
Sunday August 14th Village BBQ
Saturday October 29th Halloween Party
Saturday December 10th Quiz Night
Return to Menu
Swineshead
Correspondent- Jenny Leishman
Swineshead Litter Pick Up
Saturday 26 March
All volunteers are welcome to join the Community Litter Pick, starting at the Village Hall at 10.00am on 26th March. (Alan 708671)
Swineshead Village Hall
At the AGM of the Village Hall Management Committee held on 9 February, John Willcock was re-elected as Chairman, Sian Slater as Secretary, and Jean Constant as Treasurer. Carolyn Long, Pauline McManus, Wendy Newsom, Fran Nicholson, Julie Philpott, Rodney Tate & Jenny Leishman were also re-elected. Pat Tate resigned from the Committee, which expressed its appreciation and heartfelt thanks to her for all her hard work and many years of service to the village as a member of the Management Committee. A small presentation was also made to Pat at the February Bar Night.
There is now a VACANCY ON THE VILLAGE HALL MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE; if you are interested in joining the Committee please contact the Secretary, Sian Slater on 708970. You would be given a warm welcome and we can guarentee you would enjoy working on the team.
The next event will be an ITALIAN DINNER on SATURDAY 26 MARCH. Tickets £12, available only by advance purchase from Fran (709655) by Saturday 12 March. For further details please see advertisement in this issue of Honeycomb.
The Sixth Bell Bar will open at 8.00pm as usual on Fridays 4 March & 1 April.
Afternoon Teas will be served at 3.00pm on Thursdays 3, 17 & 31 March.
Please mark your diaries for Friday 29 April: there will be a special Village Tea in the village hall following the Royal Wedding. Details to follow.
Police Visit to Swineshead
If you would like to talk informally with a Police Officer, please note that an Officer will be visiting the village on Thursday 3 March to patrol on foot between 3pm and 4pm.
Lottie Burgess
Congratulations to Lottie Burgess, of Three Horseshoes, Swineshead, on being awarded a ‘Highly Commended’ certificate in the Young Achiever section of the Pride in Bedford Awards in December. The Parish Council nominated Lottie in recognition of her success in rowing. She has represented Great Britain in a number of events and also been selected as a member of the GB Team winning many medals at both national and international events. She was a member of the GB squad that competed in the 2009 Australian Youth Olympic Festival, where she won gold in the women's quad, bronze in the lightweight women's double and took 4th in the eight. She has also achieved success winning at Henley Women’s Regatta and in the British Universities competitions. We send her our very best wishes for continued success in the future.
St Nicholas Church
Upper Dean Top of Shay Lane/High Street 2.30pm Until 4.00pm
Times are approximate to allow for travel between sites
PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE RUBBISH AT THE SITE IF THE COLLECTION VEHICLES ARE NOT THERE
Return to Menu
Pertenhall
Correspondent- Chloe Reid
Return to Menu
March Litter Pick
The next village litter pick is on Saturday 26th March, 10.30am at Pertenhall Village Hall. All equipment is provided. Join in and do your bit for the community.
100 Club Results
January Draw
No
No.113
No 43
No 22
No 29
No 128
No 39
No.113
No 43
No 22
No 29
No 128
No 39
Name
Mrs R Day
Mrs E Hayter
Mrs M Hackney
Mr P Goodge
Mrs R MacKillop
Mr P Goodge
Mr P Knightely
Mrs R Day
Mrs E Hayter
Mrs M Hackney
Mr P Goodge
Mrs R MacKillop
Mr P Goodge
Mr P Knightely
Amount
£ 20
£ 10
£ 7
£ 5
£ 5
£ 5
£ 20
£ 10
£ 7
£ 5
£ 5
£ 5
February Draw
No
No.51
No.1
No.91
No.21
No.84
No.86
No.51
No.1
No.91
No.21
No.84
No.86
Name
Mrs G Telling
Mr E Williams
Mr R Roddis
Mr & Mrs T Kingham
Mrs Mary Bates
Mrs S Hampson
Mrs G Telling
Mr E Williams
Mr R Roddis
Mr & Mrs T Kingham
Mrs Mary Bates
Mrs S Hampson
Amount
£ 20
£ 10
£ 7
£ 5
£ 5
£ 5
£ 20
£ 10
£ 7
£ 5
£ 5
£ 5
Mothers’ Union
The next meeting of the Mothers Union is on Wednesday 16th at 2.30pm in Pertenhall Village Hall.
We thoroughly enjoyed Linda Simister’s talk in January on her life and the way she was able to serve her Church, neighbours and family, through difficult times and good. In March we will welcome back Rev Paul Langham. He has been twice before and with a well selected programme of music we have been able to relax and yet been challenged by the comments he makes as introduction to the pieces.
If you are free 2.30 to 4pm why not join us? You do not have to join as a member unless you wish to. We have been heartened by those who have come as visitors in past months. Programmes are available from Gillian Aylott by calling 01234 708174.
St Peter’s Pertenhall
St. Peter’s Church will be closed during March whilst redecoration of the interior is taking place.
The Churchwardens would like to thank the Friends of St Peter’s for their generosity, since it is due to their regular donations that the PCC now feels able to proceed with further redecoration of the interior of the Church.
The Friends of St. Peter’s and villagers have generously supported the various fundraising events held to raise money for our church over many years. Money raised at these functions is used for the insurance, maintenance and restoration of our church building and churchyard. As we do not receive financial assistance from The Church of England or central government sources, we rely on your support to keep the church building in a good state of repair. The Churchwardens and the members of the PCC would like to express their thanks for all your support in the past and we hope that this will continue in the future.
We would also like to thank all those who regularly give of their time to clean or decorate the Church with flowers. It is very much appreciated by all those who attend or visit our church.
If anyone would like more information about becoming a Friend of St Peter’s, please make contact with one of the Churchwardens.
Pertenhall P.C.C
Return to Menu
Melchbourne
Correspondent – Philip Pahl
Audrey Lawson Johnson
It is a pity that the newspaper obituaries focused on just the Lusitania moment in the life of Audrey, who died on 11 January.
The Melchbourne website carries a fuller appreciation of her subsequent life , and it also gives some of the flavour of the character of this interesting woman. It is too long for inclusion in a Parish magazine.
If you do not have Internet access, a hard copy can be sent to you if you would leave your name and address on 01234 709433
You can see a fuller obituary of Audrey on the Melchbourne web site at www.mmmatemelchbourne.
Church Cleaning and Flowers Rota
There is a regular church cleaning rota and volunteers are always welcome. Anyone wishing to be included on the rota should contact Audrey on 01234 708728.
Village dates for your diary:
Tuesday April 5th 8:00pmThe Village Hall AGM will be held on Tuesday, 5th April at 8.00 in the village hall. Everyone is invited to attend and refreshments will be served.
Saturday May 21st Party to celebrate the re-opening of the Village Hall, with its new facilities.
Saturday June 25th Safari Supper
Sunday July 10th The 747th Melchbourne Feast Day
Sunday August 14th Village BBQ
Saturday October 29th Halloween Party
Saturday December 10th Quiz Night
Return to Menu
Swineshead
Correspondent- Jenny Leishman
Swineshead Litter Pick Up
Saturday 26 March
All volunteers are welcome to join the Community Litter Pick, starting at the Village Hall at 10.00am on 26th March. (Alan 708671)
Swineshead Village Hall
At the AGM of the Village Hall Management Committee held on 9 February, John Willcock was re-elected as Chairman, Sian Slater as Secretary, and Jean Constant as Treasurer. Carolyn Long, Pauline McManus, Wendy Newsom, Fran Nicholson, Julie Philpott, Rodney Tate & Jenny Leishman were also re-elected. Pat Tate resigned from the Committee, which expressed its appreciation and heartfelt thanks to her for all her hard work and many years of service to the village as a member of the Management Committee. A small presentation was also made to Pat at the February Bar Night.
There is now a VACANCY ON THE VILLAGE HALL MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE; if you are interested in joining the Committee please contact the Secretary, Sian Slater on 708970. You would be given a warm welcome and we can guarentee you would enjoy working on the team.
The next event will be an ITALIAN DINNER on SATURDAY 26 MARCH. Tickets £12, available only by advance purchase from Fran (709655) by Saturday 12 March. For further details please see advertisement in this issue of Honeycomb.
The Sixth Bell Bar will open at 8.00pm as usual on Fridays 4 March & 1 April.
Afternoon Teas will be served at 3.00pm on Thursdays 3, 17 & 31 March.
Please mark your diaries for Friday 29 April: there will be a special Village Tea in the village hall following the Royal Wedding. Details to follow.
Police Visit to Swineshead
If you would like to talk informally with a Police Officer, please note that an Officer will be visiting the village on Thursday 3 March to patrol on foot between 3pm and 4pm.
Lottie Burgess
Congratulations to Lottie Burgess, of Three Horseshoes, Swineshead, on being awarded a ‘Highly Commended’ certificate in the Young Achiever section of the Pride in Bedford Awards in December. The Parish Council nominated Lottie in recognition of her success in rowing. She has represented Great Britain in a number of events and also been selected as a member of the GB Team winning many medals at both national and international events. She was a member of the GB squad that competed in the 2009 Australian Youth Olympic Festival, where she won gold in the women's quad, bronze in the lightweight women's double and took 4th in the eight. She has also achieved success winning at Henley Women’s Regatta and in the British Universities competitions. We send her our very best wishes for continued success in the future.
St Nicholas Church
It is a pity that the newspaper obituaries focused on just the Lusitania moment in the life of Audrey, who died on 11 January.The Melchbourne website carries a fuller appreciation of her subsequent life , and it also gives some of the flavour of the character of this interesting woman. It is too long for inclusion in a Parish magazine.
If you do not have Internet access, a hard copy can be sent to you if you would leave your name and address on 01234 709433
You can see a fuller obituary of Audrey on the Melchbourne web site at www.mmmatemelchbourne.
Sunday July 10th The 747th Melchbourne Feast Day
Sunday August 14th Village BBQ
Saturday October 29th Halloween Party
Saturday December 10th Quiz Night
Correspondent- Jenny Leishman
Swineshead Litter Pick Up
Saturday 26 March
All volunteers are welcome to join the Community Litter Pick, starting at the Village Hall at 10.00am on 26th March. (Alan 708671)
Swineshead Village Hall
At the AGM of the Village Hall Management Committee held on 9 February, John Willcock was re-elected as Chairman, Sian Slater as Secretary, and Jean Constant as Treasurer. Carolyn Long, Pauline McManus, Wendy Newsom, Fran Nicholson, Julie Philpott, Rodney Tate & Jenny Leishman were also re-elected. Pat Tate resigned from the Committee, which expressed its appreciation and heartfelt thanks to her for all her hard work and many years of service to the village as a member of the Management Committee. A small presentation was also made to Pat at the February Bar Night.
There is now a VACANCY ON THE VILLAGE HALL MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE; if you are interested in joining the Committee please contact the Secretary, Sian Slater on 708970. You would be given a warm welcome and we can guarentee you would enjoy working on the team.
The next event will be an ITALIAN DINNER on SATURDAY 26 MARCH. Tickets £12, available only by advance purchase from Fran (709655) by Saturday 12 March. For further details please see advertisement in this issue of Honeycomb.
The Sixth Bell Bar will open at 8.00pm as usual on Fridays 4 March & 1 April.
Afternoon Teas will be served at 3.00pm on Thursdays 3, 17 & 31 March.
Please mark your diaries for Friday 29 April: there will be a special Village Tea in the village hall following the Royal Wedding. Details to follow.
Police Visit to Swineshead
If you would like to talk informally with a Police Officer, please note that an Officer will be visiting the village on Thursday 3 March to patrol on foot between 3pm and 4pm.
Lottie Burgess
Congratulations to Lottie Burgess, of Three Horseshoes, Swineshead, on being awarded a ‘Highly Commended’ certificate in the Young Achiever section of the Pride in Bedford Awards in December. The Parish Council nominated Lottie in recognition of her success in rowing. She has represented Great Britain in a number of events and also been selected as a member of the GB Team winning many medals at both national and international events. She was a member of the GB squad that competed in the 2009 Australian Youth Olympic Festival, where she won gold in the women's quad, bronze in the lightweight women's double and took 4th in the eight. She has also achieved success winning at Henley Women’s Regatta and in the British Universities competitions. We send her our very best wishes for continued success in the future.
St Nicholas Church
| Church Cleaning & Flowers | ||
| 20th March | Pat, Jean, Jenni | Lent – no flowers |
| 3rd April | Pauline, Clarissa, Diana, Frances | Lent – no flowers |
| 24th April | Emma, Jan, Anne L | Jan |
Return to Menu
Yelden
Correspondent-Sue Taylor
Cathedral Visit
14 members of Stodden visited Peterborough Cathedral for evensong at the end of January. We entered the cathedral to wonderful organ music and choral singing while the choir were practising. We had time to look around and then joined other worshippers in the beautiful carved choir stalls for evensong. Our transport made its way back to Rosemary & Peter’s in Yelden for a delicious tea.
Safari Supper
Hot off the Press, the day after the event, we have to report a record attendance of 68 people criss-crossing Yelden village from 7 till 2, engaging 25 houses in all. Great reports all round for the variety of food offered – personally the beef cheeks were a highlight. Graham and Jenny Ives and their stalwart team must be congratulated on their first time of organising this mammoth event and they in turn wish to thank all the hosts for their willingness to participate.
Flower and Cleaning Plan
13th March Sue / Stephanie (6.00am)
Lent so cleaning only
27th March Lesley / Jane (9.00am)
10th April Theresa / Sue (10.30am)
Return to Menu
Forthcoming Attractions
2nd April | Dean Duck Dash | Brook Lane |
 | ||
Return to Menu | ||
21st April | Dean Sports Club | Sports Club Season Starts |
 | ||
Return to Menu | ||
26th March | Italian Night | Swineshead Villa Hall |
 | ||
Return to Menu | ||
Contents this edition
Rector's Remarks
Stodden's Future
Lent Compline
Lent Lunches
Lent Courses
What makes Lent special
All in the month of March
Breaking Up
2011 Census
A sad loss for Stodden
M & Y PC Minutes
D & S PC Minutes
Kitchen Manager
Around the Villages
The Deans
Melchbourne
Pertenhall
Swineshead
Yelden
