Honeycomb May 2011
Rector′s Remarks
Sometimes a comment by someone else will stimulate my Rector’s Remark. This month I am taking it quite a bit further. I found this article by David Winter a former Head of BBC Religious Broadcasting who has contributed to Radio 4's 'Thought for the Day' for the past 22 years. I thought its sentiments could not be bettered so here it is.
“On Radio 5 Live there’s a feature once a week in the afternoon when listeners are invited - indeed, urged - to phone in or text their biggest moans. This isn’t really intended for what one might call Major Whinges - the state of the NHS or poverty in sub-Saharan Africa - but for all those petty irritations that wind us up and that we feel a desperate need to get off our chests.
I always listen spell-bound, marvelling at how often I find that exactly the same things irritate me: the woman in front of me in the supermarket cash-out who half-way through the process discovers she forgot to get a tin of baked beans and disappears into the farthest reaches of the store to get it while we wait and fume. Or the man who fills his car with petrol and then spends twenty minutes doing his minor shopping or having a coffee while his car is parked at the pump that I want to use.
You see what I mean? They are petty irritations. They’re trivial, we know that, but they often upset us much more than the serious problems of life. For some reason, they really bug us. We know, in our heart of hearts, that we’re getting upset about things that really don’t matter, while at the same time sitting lightly to things that matter enormously. In other words, our sense of priorities has got distorted.
Priorities: that was the theme of the famous Sermon on the Mount of Jesus. Take a look at Matthew’s Gospel chapter 6, especially much of verses 19 - 21 & 24 - 33**. We need to know, he says, what our true ‘treasure’ is. If we did, we wouldn’t worry about food, clothes, appearance and what might happen tomorrow - God knows we need them. Our priority would be ‘the kingdom of God and his righteousness’ - doing what God requires. Letting my blood pressure rise over someone’s tin of baked beans is, in the language of Jesus, ‘straining out a gnat and swallowing a camel’ (Matthew 23.24). And I wouldn’t want to do that, would I?”
** In case you cannot lay your hands on your bible this passage reads:
‘19 Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust* consume and where thieves break in and steal;
20 but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust* consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal.
21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
24 ‘No one can serve two masters; for a slave will either hate the one and love the other, or be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.*
25 ‘Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink,* or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?
26 Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?
27 And can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life?*
28 And why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin,
29 yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these.
30 But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith?
31 Therefore do not worry, saying, “What will we eat?” or “What will we drink?” or “What will we wear?”
32 For it is the Gentiles who strive for all these things; and indeed your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.
33 But strive first for the kingdom of God* and his* righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Jan Brookshaw
26 Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?
27 And can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life?*
28 And why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin,
29 yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these.
30 But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith?
31 Therefore do not worry, saying, “What will we eat?” or “What will we drink?” or “What will we wear?”
32 For it is the Gentiles who strive for all these things; and indeed your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.
33 But strive first for the kingdom of God* and his* righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
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ALL IN THE MONTH OF MAY
| 400 years ago | 2nd May 1611: the King James Version of the Bible was published. |
| 300 years ago: | 7th May 1711: David Hume, Scottish philosopher, historian & economist, was born. |
| 175 years ago | 24th May 1836: Joseph Rowntree, British philanthropist, social reformer, businessman and chocolatier was born. |
| 150 years ago | 13th May 1861: Britain proclaimed its neutrality in the American Civil War. |
| 125 years ago | 8th May 1886: Coca-Cola first went on sale, in Atlanta, Georgia. |
| 100 years ago: | on 17th May 1911 that Maureen Sullivan, Irish-born American actress was born. She played Jane in the ‘Tarzan’ movies. |
| 100 years ago | 28th May 1911: Dame Thora Hird, British actress, was born. |
| 90 years ago: | 5th May 1921: Chanel No. 5 perfume was launched. |
| 80 years ago | 1st May 1931: the Empire State Building in New York City was officially opened. |
| 75 years ago | 14th May 1936: Edmund Allenby, 1st Viscount Allenby, British field marshall who directed the Palestine Campaign in WW1, died. |
| 70 years ago | 9th May 1941: the British Royal Navy captured the German submarine U-110. On board they found the latest model of Enigma machine, codebooks and documents which enabled British code breakers to decipher coded German messages. |
| 65 years ago | on 7th May 1946 that Sony, the Japanese consumer electronics company, was founded. |
| 60 years ago | on 25th May 1951: British spies Guy Burgess and Donald Maclean fled to Moscow. |
| 50 years ago | 28th May 1961: that Amnesty International was founded in London. |
| 30 years ago | 5th May 1981: Bobby Sands, Irish IRA member and politician, died at the Maze Prison in Northern Ireland after a 66-day hunger strike. |
| 20 years ago | 14th May 1991: Nelson Mandela’s wife Winnie was sentenced to six years in jail for her part in the kidnapping and beating of four youths. (Later reduced to a fine.) |
| 10 years ago | 11th May 2001: Douglas Adams, British comic writer best known for ‘The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy’, died. |
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Seize the day
Today is the oldest you’ve ever been, yet the youngest you’ll ever be, so enjoy this day while it lasts.
What the Bible really means.... A father was approached by his small son who told him proudly, "I know what the Bible means!" His father smiled and replied, "What do you mean, you 'know' what the Bible means? The son replied, "I do know!" "Okay," said his father. "What does the Bible mean? "That's easy, Daddy..." the young boy replied excitedly, "It stands for 'Basic Information Before Leaving Earth.'
What God is like A Sunday School teacher began her lesson with a question, "Boys and girls, what do we know about God?" A hand shot up in the air. "He is an artist!" said the little boy. "Really? How do you know?" the teacher asked. "You know - Our Father, who does art in Heaven... "
Golf Golfer to caddy: “Why didn’t you watch where my ball went?” Caddy to golfer: “I’m so sorry. Your ball doesn’t usually go anywhere, and this took me completely by surprise.”
Who’s been good? A father of five young children won a toy at a raffle. Back home, he called his children together to let them determine which one should have the present. "Who is the most obedient?" he asked. "Who never talks back to Mother? Who does everything she says?"
Five small voices answered in unison: "You, Daddy!"
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When did you learn to swear?
Swear You never really learn to swear until you learn to drive!
Just pretend Although the married couple enjoyed their new fishing boat together, it was the husband who always took the wheel. But then he became concerned about what might happen in an emergency. So one day out on the lake he said to his wife, "Please take the wheel, dear. Pretend that I am having a heart attack. You must get the boat safely to shore and dock it." So she drove the boat to shore. Later that evening, the wife walked into the living room where her husband was watching television. She sat down next to him, switched the TV channel, and said to him, "Please go into the kitchen, dear. Pretend I'm having a heart attack and set the table, cook dinner and wash the dishes.
When technology goes wrong The father of a family - who was a big-time techie - got his oldest daughter an iPhone for her birthday. He also got an iPad for his son. Later he bought an iPod for the youngest daughter. Then, when his wedding anniversary rolled around, he got his wife an iRon. That's when the fight began.
Jan Brookshaw
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May Day
May is the month when the ancient pagans used to get up to all sorts! The Romans held their festival to honour the mother-goddess Maia, goddess of nature and growth. (May is named after her.) The early Celts celebrated the feast of Beltane, in honour of the sun god, Beli. For centuries in ‘Olde England’ the people went mad in May. After the hardship of winter, and hunger of early Spring, May was a time of indulgence and unbridled merriment. One Philip Stubbes, writing in 1583, was scandalised: “for what kissing and bussing, what smooching and slabbering one of another, is not practised?” Henry VIII went ‘maying’ on many occasions. Then folk would stay out all night in the dark rain-warm thickets, and return in the morning for dancing on the green around the May pole, archery, vaulting, wrestling, and that evening, bonfires.
The Protestant reformers took a strong stand against May Day - and in 1644 May Day was abolished together. Many May poles came down - only to go up again at the Restoration, when the first May Day of King Charles’s reign was “the happiest Mayday that hath been many a year in England”, according to Pepys.
May Day to most people today brings vague folk memories of a young Queen of the May decorated with garlands and streamers and flowers, a May Pole to weave, Morris dancing, and the intricacies of well dressing at Tissington in Derbyshire. May Day is a medley of natural themes such as sunrise, the advent of summer, growth in nature, and - since 1833 - Robert Owen’s vision of a millennium in the future, beginning on May Day, when there would be no more poverty, injustice or cruelty, but in harmony and friendship. This is why, in modern times, May Day has become Labour Day, which honours the dignity of workers. And until recently, in communist countries May Day processions were in honour of the achievement of Marxism.
There has never been a Christian content to May Day, but nevertheless there is the well known 6am service on the top of Magdalen Tower at Oxford where a choir sings in the dawn of May Day.
An old May carol includes the lines:
The life of man is but a span, it flourishes like a flower
We are here today, and gone tomorrow - we are dead within an hour.
There is something of a sadness about it, both in words and tune, as there is about all purely sensuous joy. For May Day is not Easter, and the joys it represents have always been earth-bound and fleeting.
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Happy 400th Birthday, King James Bible!
On 2nd May it will be exactly 400 years since the King James Version of the Bible (KJV) was first published. The Authorised Version, as it is also known, has sold more than one billion copies since it was first published in 1611. It is arguable that there has been no more important single publication, as its impact on culture and language over the last 400 years has been huge around the world. Not only has it inspired great art, music and literature, but it has changed lives and shaped whole societies.
One of its translators, Francis Dillingham, has strong links to Dean. There will be an exhibition in Dean Church on Saturday 14th May and Sunday 15th May to celebrate the 400th anniversary and the life of Francis Dilligham. The exhibition is using materials kindly loaned by Cambridge University Library.
At 11am on the Sunday (May 15th) there will be a special service of Matins at Dean Church including readings from some of the classical texts from the KJV. The service of Matins was written by Thomas Cranmer just a little before the KJV under the influence of the same faith upheavals that led to the KJV. Its revision in 1662 was strongly affected by the KJV. The canticles and anthems in the service will be sung by the Stodden choir. So do join us for a very special act of worship.
Jan Brookshaw
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Kimbolton Flower Club
The next Kimbolton Flower Club meeting will be held at the Mandeville Hall, Kimbolton, at 7.30pm on Tuesday May 17th.
Anne Colby is our demonstrator for the evening and the title of her demonstration is: "Feel The Passion."
All welcome: visitors admission six pounds, including light refreshments.
Sue Fawcett
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Health & Wellbeing Roadshows
Health and Wellbeing Roadshows
Bedford Borough Council and NHS Bedfordshire have co-produced a
series of roadshow events with the aim of improving the health and
wellbeing of local residents. A roadshow is coming to:
Riseley Village Hall
Wednesday 1 June 2011 6:00pm, - 8:30pm
Sharnbrook Village Hall
Tuesday 21 June
6:00pm – 8:30pm
Members of the public are invited to come along and get information on
local health and social care services and equip themselves with the tools,
motivation and inspiration to develop a healthier lifestyle. A wide-range
of advice will be on offer from a variety of organisations.
Residents aged 40 to 74 will also be offered an NHS health check, which
helps to identify the risk of developing heart disease, stroke, diabetes and
kidney disease. Those identified at higher risk will be offered support and
advice on reducing that risk.
To book your health check in advance please ring Horizon Health quoting
date and venue (with your name and contact telephone number).
Tel: 01234 897501.
All the events are being part funded by Government Office to help achieve
set targets relating to areas of health and social care deprivation.
For more information please contact Carol Wells on 01525 636764.
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Honeycomb Editor
As you can see from the fact that you are reading this edition of Honeycomb, we do have an editor for the time being. Sue Tusting has kindly agreed to be editor in the short term. Sue has been Editor before and we are very grateful that she has stepped into the breach. However, Sue can only do it for a few months and we still need a new Editor. So please if you can spare 6 –8 hours a month contact me so that Honeycomb can continue to benefit all our villages.
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Dean
Correspondent- Annette Brooks
Dean & Shelton Parish Council
Notes of the Meeting of Dean & Shelton Parish Council, 9 March 2011
Godfrey Willis of Bedford Area Bus Users Society attended and spoke about the recent cutbacks by Cambridgeshire Council and the effect on the 152 bus route through Dean. He advised that lobbying and discussions with various parties meant that a through route from Bedford to St Neots was still available although a change of buses would now be required at Kimbolton.
There were no disclosures of interest. The Minutes of Meeting 9 February 2011 were confirmed as a correct record and signed by the Chairman.
A financial statement and bank reconciliation were received and discussed.
An application from the Villager Community Minibus was discussed and it was resolved to make a donation of £50.
The Purchase of Additional Salt Bins was discussed and it was resolved that two bins would be purchased for an amount not to exceed £250. Prior to an order being placed discussions with residents would confirm final location.
Accounts for Payment: R Grasmeder - Clerk salary 3 months to 31 March 2011 & expenses year ending 31 March 2011 £702.14 (LGA1972 S.112)
Planning Application 11/00227/EXT – to replace extant planning permission to extend time limit for construction of two storey rear extension and porch Top Farm, Upper Dean. It was resolved that the Council had no objections to this proposal.
Planning Applications 11/00277/FUL and 11/00336/LBC – part single storey and part two storey rear extension following demolition Willow View, Lower Dean. It was resolved that the Council had no objections to these proposals.
A briefing and questionnaire on the Public Forest Estate was discussed and in view of the reversal of the decision to privatise woodland by the government it was felt that no action was required.
A communication from the Scrutiny and Policy Review and Development Committee regarding work programmes was discussed and it was resolved that the Council’s previous view remained unchanged in the ambulance response times and highways maintenance were priorities.
A communication regarding Mineral Safeguarding Areas was noted.
Parish Plan Updates - Cllr Leigh tabled a list of items and it was resolved that they should be placed on the agenda for discussion at the next meeting.
The Council recorded its thanks to Dr Cook for his work in addressing the Bedford Borough Council Planning Committee on behalf of the Council on 14 February 2011 regarding the planning application for the erection of turbines at Chelveston airfield. This was undertaken at short notice and Dr Cook’s efforts were much appreciated. The Clerk was asked to convey these sentiments.
Cllr Cordell will ask for a police representative to attend the Annual Parish Meeting.
Date for next meeting 13 April 2011 at Dalton Hall commencing at 7.30pm. This will be preceded by the Annual Parish Meeting commencing at 7.00pm.
Notes of the Meeting of Dean & Shelton Parish Council held on 13 April 2011
There were no disclosures of interest.
The minutes of the meeting 9 March 2011 were confirmed as a correct record and signed by the Chairman.
Membership of Bedford Area Bus Users Society was discussed and it was resolved that the Parish Council should become a member.
The Grass Cutting Agreement 2011 was discussed and it was resolved that the agreement with Bedford Borough Council should be signed. A quotation for grass cutting for 2011 from A Summerfield was discussed and it was noted that there had been no increase in the price for grass cutting and included a one off amount for clearing areas around benches. It was resolved that an order be placed by the clerk.
The purchase of additional salt bins was discussed and it was resolved that as discussions had taken place with residents to confirm locations these should now be purchased.
The payment of the following accounts was approved by all those present:
Villager Minibus – donation - £50 approved at meeting 9/03/2011 item 4a (LG Rating Act 1997)
BABUS – membership - £12 (LG Rating Act 1997)
BATPC – affiliation fee for year 2011/2012 £82.00 (LGA 1972 S.143)
Mrs J Goodson – annual maintenance of planting around war memorial (2010 & 2011 - £60 (War memorials Act 1923 s1& LGA 1948 s133)
Application No: 11/00564/S73 - Change of use of land & buildings laying of hardstanding and removal of conditions 3 and 4 of planning permission 08/02457/S73 – Millcroft, Shelton. It was resolved that the Council strongly objected to the removal of condition 3. Reasons being that it was the only enforceable condition to prevent unfettered and unlimited commercial development of the site which is in the middle of a rural area. The Council remains certain that the only viable access to the site is via an undeniably dangerous junction from the B645 where visibility is severely restricted. It was noted that the imposition of this type of condition is by no means unique in planning decisions and the Council remains convinced that its retention is paramount despite threats of Appeal. It was resolved that the Parish Council had no comment on the proposed removal of condition 4.
A letter from Mr R Wallis was discussed and it was resolved that a copy should be sent to the Highways Dept asking for their comments and suggestions and recording a reminder about the speed limit issue for Shelton.
It was resolved that the item on Parish Plan updates be deferred until the next meeting when the new parish council has taken its place. The Parish Council recorded its sincere thanks to Councillors Marian Limb and Margaret Weston for their knowledge, time and effort on the Council which had been much appreciated and valued. The Clerk was asked to convey these sentiments.
Date for next meeting which will be the Annual Meeting is 11 May 2011 at Dalton Hall commencing at 7.30pm.The Chairman closed the meeting at 20.15.
Chapel Meetings
Sunday May 8th 22nd and
June 5th at 2.30p.m
in the Chapel Schoolroom.
J Neale Charity
The time of year has come round again for applications to the Charity to be received. The money bequeathed to this Charity by a Dean resident in the 17th Century only yields a small income now.
It was originally given to 5 school leavers (2 in Dean, 1 in Shelton and 2 in Swineshead) who needed to buy tools or clothing to use at work. Then as further education became available to all classes it was given to buy books etc. Now the criteria is just those who can show a need for a few £ to help when leaving school. Don’t get excited the amount given will probably be between £5 or £10!
Applications by word of mouth followed by a letter can be made to Mrs Wells in Shelton; Mrs Pippard in Lower Dean; Mrs Aylott in Upper Dean; Miss Nicholson or Mr Whitlock in Swineshead. The Revd Jan Brookshaw is also a Trustee. The closing date is July 31st.
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Yelden
Correspondent-Sue Taylor
Lent Lunch
Lent lunch at Yelden was well supported and delicious home made soup, bread and cheese made for a happy gathering. Thanks to all those who helped raise just over £100.
Strawberry Fayre
The now annual Open Meeting will be held upstairs in the village hall on Wednesday May 11th. This gives new members of the village an opportunity to hear what Strawberry Fayre is all about and for the rest of us to remember how many people it needs to keep all the many stalls and strawberry teas operating smoothly. So if you feel able to offer help in any way or ask questions do come along and hear all about it over a glass of wine and nibbles.
Don’t forget to phone Alan or Anne on 01933 413129 if you have any unwanted items for the Static Auction. Please phone them for details.
There has never been a Christian content to May Day, but nevertheless there is the well known 6am service on the top of Magdalen Tower at Oxford where a choir sings in the dawn of May Day.
An old May carol includes the lines:
The life of man is but a span, it flourishes like a flower
We are here today, and gone tomorrow - we are dead within an hour.
There is something of a sadness about it, both in words and tune, as there is about all purely sensuous joy. For May Day is not Easter, and the joys it represents have always been earth-bound and fleeting.
Return to Menu
Happy 400th Birthday, King James Bible!
On 2nd May it will be exactly 400 years since the King James Version of the Bible (KJV) was first published. The Authorised Version, as it is also known, has sold more than one billion copies since it was first published in 1611. It is arguable that there has been no more important single publication, as its impact on culture and language over the last 400 years has been huge around the world. Not only has it inspired great art, music and literature, but it has changed lives and shaped whole societies.
One of its translators, Francis Dillingham, has strong links to Dean. There will be an exhibition in Dean Church on Saturday 14th May and Sunday 15th May to celebrate the 400th anniversary and the life of Francis Dilligham. The exhibition is using materials kindly loaned by Cambridge University Library.
At 11am on the Sunday (May 15th) there will be a special service of Matins at Dean Church including readings from some of the classical texts from the KJV. The service of Matins was written by Thomas Cranmer just a little before the KJV under the influence of the same faith upheavals that led to the KJV. Its revision in 1662 was strongly affected by the KJV. The canticles and anthems in the service will be sung by the Stodden choir. So do join us for a very special act of worship.
Jan Brookshaw
Return to Menu
Kimbolton Flower Club
The next Kimbolton Flower Club meeting will be held at the Mandeville Hall, Kimbolton, at 7.30pm on Tuesday May 17th.
Anne Colby is our demonstrator for the evening and the title of her demonstration is: "Feel The Passion."
All welcome: visitors admission six pounds, including light refreshments.
Sue Fawcett
Return to Menu
Health & Wellbeing Roadshows
Health and Wellbeing Roadshows
Bedford Borough Council and NHS Bedfordshire have co-produced a
series of roadshow events with the aim of improving the health and
wellbeing of local residents. A roadshow is coming to:
Riseley Village Hall
Wednesday 1 June 2011 6:00pm, - 8:30pm
Sharnbrook Village Hall
Tuesday 21 June
6:00pm – 8:30pm
Members of the public are invited to come along and get information on
local health and social care services and equip themselves with the tools,
motivation and inspiration to develop a healthier lifestyle. A wide-range
of advice will be on offer from a variety of organisations.
Residents aged 40 to 74 will also be offered an NHS health check, which
helps to identify the risk of developing heart disease, stroke, diabetes and
kidney disease. Those identified at higher risk will be offered support and
advice on reducing that risk.
To book your health check in advance please ring Horizon Health quoting
date and venue (with your name and contact telephone number).
Tel: 01234 897501.
All the events are being part funded by Government Office to help achieve
set targets relating to areas of health and social care deprivation.
For more information please contact Carol Wells on 01525 636764.
Return to Menu
Honeycomb Editor
As you can see from the fact that you are reading this edition of Honeycomb, we do have an editor for the time being. Sue Tusting has kindly agreed to be editor in the short term. Sue has been Editor before and we are very grateful that she has stepped into the breach. However, Sue can only do it for a few months and we still need a new Editor. So please if you can spare 6 –8 hours a month contact me so that Honeycomb can continue to benefit all our villages.
Return to Menu
Dean
Correspondent- Annette Brooks
Dean & Shelton Parish Council
Notes of the Meeting of Dean & Shelton Parish Council, 9 March 2011
Godfrey Willis of Bedford Area Bus Users Society attended and spoke about the recent cutbacks by Cambridgeshire Council and the effect on the 152 bus route through Dean. He advised that lobbying and discussions with various parties meant that a through route from Bedford to St Neots was still available although a change of buses would now be required at Kimbolton.
There were no disclosures of interest. The Minutes of Meeting 9 February 2011 were confirmed as a correct record and signed by the Chairman.
A financial statement and bank reconciliation were received and discussed.
An application from the Villager Community Minibus was discussed and it was resolved to make a donation of £50.
The Purchase of Additional Salt Bins was discussed and it was resolved that two bins would be purchased for an amount not to exceed £250. Prior to an order being placed discussions with residents would confirm final location.
Accounts for Payment: R Grasmeder - Clerk salary 3 months to 31 March 2011 & expenses year ending 31 March 2011 £702.14 (LGA1972 S.112)
Planning Application 11/00227/EXT – to replace extant planning permission to extend time limit for construction of two storey rear extension and porch Top Farm, Upper Dean. It was resolved that the Council had no objections to this proposal.
Planning Applications 11/00277/FUL and 11/00336/LBC – part single storey and part two storey rear extension following demolition Willow View, Lower Dean. It was resolved that the Council had no objections to these proposals.
A briefing and questionnaire on the Public Forest Estate was discussed and in view of the reversal of the decision to privatise woodland by the government it was felt that no action was required.
A communication from the Scrutiny and Policy Review and Development Committee regarding work programmes was discussed and it was resolved that the Council’s previous view remained unchanged in the ambulance response times and highways maintenance were priorities.
A communication regarding Mineral Safeguarding Areas was noted.
Parish Plan Updates - Cllr Leigh tabled a list of items and it was resolved that they should be placed on the agenda for discussion at the next meeting.
The Council recorded its thanks to Dr Cook for his work in addressing the Bedford Borough Council Planning Committee on behalf of the Council on 14 February 2011 regarding the planning application for the erection of turbines at Chelveston airfield. This was undertaken at short notice and Dr Cook’s efforts were much appreciated. The Clerk was asked to convey these sentiments.
Cllr Cordell will ask for a police representative to attend the Annual Parish Meeting.
Date for next meeting 13 April 2011 at Dalton Hall commencing at 7.30pm. This will be preceded by the Annual Parish Meeting commencing at 7.00pm.
Notes of the Meeting of Dean & Shelton Parish Council held on 13 April 2011
There were no disclosures of interest.
The minutes of the meeting 9 March 2011 were confirmed as a correct record and signed by the Chairman.
Membership of Bedford Area Bus Users Society was discussed and it was resolved that the Parish Council should become a member.
The Grass Cutting Agreement 2011 was discussed and it was resolved that the agreement with Bedford Borough Council should be signed. A quotation for grass cutting for 2011 from A Summerfield was discussed and it was noted that there had been no increase in the price for grass cutting and included a one off amount for clearing areas around benches. It was resolved that an order be placed by the clerk.
The purchase of additional salt bins was discussed and it was resolved that as discussions had taken place with residents to confirm locations these should now be purchased.
The payment of the following accounts was approved by all those present:
Villager Minibus – donation - £50 approved at meeting 9/03/2011 item 4a (LG Rating Act 1997)
BABUS – membership - £12 (LG Rating Act 1997)
BATPC – affiliation fee for year 2011/2012 £82.00 (LGA 1972 S.143)
Mrs J Goodson – annual maintenance of planting around war memorial (2010 & 2011 - £60 (War memorials Act 1923 s1& LGA 1948 s133)
Application No: 11/00564/S73 - Change of use of land & buildings laying of hardstanding and removal of conditions 3 and 4 of planning permission 08/02457/S73 – Millcroft, Shelton. It was resolved that the Council strongly objected to the removal of condition 3. Reasons being that it was the only enforceable condition to prevent unfettered and unlimited commercial development of the site which is in the middle of a rural area. The Council remains certain that the only viable access to the site is via an undeniably dangerous junction from the B645 where visibility is severely restricted. It was noted that the imposition of this type of condition is by no means unique in planning decisions and the Council remains convinced that its retention is paramount despite threats of Appeal. It was resolved that the Parish Council had no comment on the proposed removal of condition 4.
A letter from Mr R Wallis was discussed and it was resolved that a copy should be sent to the Highways Dept asking for their comments and suggestions and recording a reminder about the speed limit issue for Shelton.
It was resolved that the item on Parish Plan updates be deferred until the next meeting when the new parish council has taken its place. The Parish Council recorded its sincere thanks to Councillors Marian Limb and Margaret Weston for their knowledge, time and effort on the Council which had been much appreciated and valued. The Clerk was asked to convey these sentiments.
Date for next meeting which will be the Annual Meeting is 11 May 2011 at Dalton Hall commencing at 7.30pm.The Chairman closed the meeting at 20.15.
Chapel Meetings
Sunday May 8th 22nd and
June 5th at 2.30p.m
in the Chapel Schoolroom.
J Neale Charity
The time of year has come round again for applications to the Charity to be received. The money bequeathed to this Charity by a Dean resident in the 17th Century only yields a small income now.
It was originally given to 5 school leavers (2 in Dean, 1 in Shelton and 2 in Swineshead) who needed to buy tools or clothing to use at work. Then as further education became available to all classes it was given to buy books etc. Now the criteria is just those who can show a need for a few £ to help when leaving school. Don’t get excited the amount given will probably be between £5 or £10!
Applications by word of mouth followed by a letter can be made to Mrs Wells in Shelton; Mrs Pippard in Lower Dean; Mrs Aylott in Upper Dean; Miss Nicholson or Mr Whitlock in Swineshead. The Revd Jan Brookshaw is also a Trustee. The closing date is July 31st.
Return to Menu
Yelden
Correspondent-Sue Taylor
Lent Lunch
Lent lunch at Yelden was well supported and delicious home made soup, bread and cheese made for a happy gathering. Thanks to all those who helped raise just over £100.
Strawberry Fayre
The now annual Open Meeting will be held upstairs in the village hall on Wednesday May 11th. This gives new members of the village an opportunity to hear what Strawberry Fayre is all about and for the rest of us to remember how many people it needs to keep all the many stalls and strawberry teas operating smoothly. So if you feel able to offer help in any way or ask questions do come along and hear all about it over a glass of wine and nibbles.
Don’t forget to phone Alan or Anne on 01933 413129 if you have any unwanted items for the Static Auction. Please phone them for details.
Sue Fawcett
Wednesday 1 June 2011 6:00pm, - 8:30pm
Sharnbrook Village Hall
Tuesday 21 June
6:00pm – 8:30pm
Villager Minibus – donation - £50 approved at meeting 9/03/2011 item 4a (LG Rating Act 1997)
BABUS – membership - £12 (LG Rating Act 1997)
BATPC – affiliation fee for year 2011/2012 £82.00 (LGA 1972 S.143)
Mrs J Goodson – annual maintenance of planting around war memorial (2010 & 2011 - £60 (War memorials Act 1923 s1& LGA 1948 s133)
June 5th at 2.30p.m in the Chapel Schoolroom.
| FLOWER AND CLEANING PLAN | |||
| May 1st | Sue / Rosemary (6pm) | ||
| 15th | Lesley / Lorna (9am) | ||
| 29 | Theresa / Stephanie | ||
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Pertenhall
Correspondent-Chloe Reid
March Litter pick
The litter pick took place on Saturday 26th March and between 15 people, 27 bags of waste and a roadside bollard were collected. Well done. Those who attended will receive a Pride Point, which can eventually be exchanged for reward vouchers.
Mothers’ Union Meeting
We met in May on Wednesday 18th at 2.30pm in Pertenhall Village Hall, with Mrs Yates from Harpenden coming to talk about Beds and Herts.
Members were very pleased with the March meeting when Revd Paul Lanham came to give us a 20 minute programme of music and readings. They were well thought out - we all relaxed and yet went away with much to consider. It was unanimously agreed that we would ask him back sometime soon. As usual we enjoyed a good tea.
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Swineshead
Correspondent-Jenny Leishman
Swineshead Village Hall
The village hall will be in use as a Polling Station on Thursday 5 May, open for voting in the elections and referendum from 7am until 10pm
The Sixth Bell Bar will be open from 8pm on Fridays 6 May & 3 June.
Afternoon Teas will be served from 3pm on Thursdays 12 & 26 May and 9 & 23 June
100 CLUB WINNERS
| Amount | February Draw | March Draw | April Draw |
| 4th Bar Night | 3rd Teas | 1st Bar Night | |
| £ 20.00 | Jenny Leishman (9) | Sian Slater (84) | Jan Wasling (70) |
| £ 10.00 | Trevor Hartwell (81) | Michael Slade (52) | P. Thompson (40) |
| £ 5.00 | Clive Seddon (73) | Josie Thompson (41) | C. Thompson (39) |
| £ 5.00 | Martin Towlson (51) | Trevor Hartwell (81) | M. Patrick (69) |
Swineshead Bulky Waste Collection
There will be a collection of bulky waste on Sunday 26 June
12.30-1.30pm near Green Lane
1.30-3.00pm outside the village hall
St Nicholas Church
| Date | Cleaning | Flowers |
| May 8 | Edna, Margaret, James | Pat |
| May 22 | Pat, Jean, Jenni | Clarissa |
| June 19 | Pauline, Clarissa, Diana, Frances | Edna |
Swineshead & Pertenhall Police Walkabout
A police walkabout is planned for Saturday 28 May between 1.00pm and 2.00pm, when there will be an opportunity to chat with an officer informally. Both Swineshead & Pertenhall will be visited by Chris Warmington, our local Police Community Support Officer, during this time slot. Should he be deployed at the last minute on other duties, he will inform Jan Herdan.
The police wish to apologise for their non-appearance in Swineshead for the February & March walkabouts. On the first occasion, the PCSO was admitted to hospital at short notice, and on the second he was deployed to Bedford town centre, again at short notice.
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Melchbourne
Correspondent-Phil Pahl
Village web site - http://mmmatmelchbourne.yolasite.com/Information Required"
Village Hall AGM held on Tuesday, 5th April 2011
Chairman’s Report (Helen Bone)
Once again the Village Hall Committee has had a very active year. This year we said goodbye to Tony as Treasurer who had worked very hard on behalf of the village hall and was always there to fix things. We welcomed Mark as our new treasurer, who is proving just as good in the post as Tony was.
This year we also welcomed Sean to our committee, who is very useful along with Mark on the maintenance side of things.
It is with great sadness that Malcolm has decided not to stand for re-election to the committee this year. I would like to thank Malcolm very much on behalf of the committee for all the hard work that both he and Joy have done in raising funds to help improve the Hall, he will be sorely missed. But I know he has agreed to continue to do the Christmas quiz, so we shall just co-opt him!
As you can see, the new bar area is finished, I hope it gets well used, and I think it is a very good amenity for the Village Hall.
There will be the usual activities in the Hall this year- a reopening of the bar area, safari supper which is always popular, barbecue, quiz etc. We are also looking at trying other things, maybe more talks, demonstrations, etc.
We have lots more projects in the pipeline. We need to re-do the hall floor to stop the slipping, put a new floor and toilet in the gent’s loo, re-do the entrance hall, get rid of the bilious pink in the disabled toilet and then it will be time to redecorate the kitchen.
I would like to thank the committee for all their support over the last year. For their help and enthusiasm at fundraising, and the maintenance of the hall, where it seems that no matter the problem, our men can solve it.
Here I would like to give a special thank you to Sarah who has been a fantastic secretary over the last year, supporting me, keeping us all in order, providing very efficient minutes and agendas, which without we could not function. Also Pam, who as the booking secretary is responsible for hiring out the hall, and making sure the regulations are followed. This can sometimes cause problems, when letting the hall, but Pam’s tenacity and calm approach usually wins the day. Her knowledge and support has been invaluable to me, she is really the backbone of this committee.
Lastly but by no means least, I would like to thank the village for all their support at our events. I have to say Melchbourne is the envy of lots of surrounding villages, for the support we get, relative to the village size at the functions we hold. Without your support there would be no Village Hall.
Election of Officers
Sarah proposed that Helen Bone be elected as Chairman, seconded by Malcolm.
Helen proposed that the committee are elected en-masse. Including Sue Tusting, seconded by Joy.
Helen proposed that Matt Day be co-opted on to the Committee. This was unanimously agreed by the Committee and Matt is happy to join.
The Village Hall Committee has decided to cancel the party to celebrate the re-opening of the village hall in view of the fact that we have the Royal Wedding Celebration Party only three weeks before on 29th April.
Village dates for your diary:
Village Hall AGM held on Tuesday, 5th April 2011
Chairman’s Report (Helen Bone)
Once again the Village Hall Committee has had a very active year. This year we said goodbye to Tony as Treasurer who had worked very hard on behalf of the village hall and was always there to fix things. We welcomed Mark as our new treasurer, who is proving just as good in the post as Tony was.
This year we also welcomed Sean to our committee, who is very useful along with Mark on the maintenance side of things.
It is with great sadness that Malcolm has decided not to stand for re-election to the committee this year. I would like to thank Malcolm very much on behalf of the committee for all the hard work that both he and Joy have done in raising funds to help improve the Hall, he will be sorely missed. But I know he has agreed to continue to do the Christmas quiz, so we shall just co-opt him!
As you can see, the new bar area is finished, I hope it gets well used, and I think it is a very good amenity for the Village Hall.
There will be the usual activities in the Hall this year- a reopening of the bar area, safari supper which is always popular, barbecue, quiz etc. We are also looking at trying other things, maybe more talks, demonstrations, etc.
We have lots more projects in the pipeline. We need to re-do the hall floor to stop the slipping, put a new floor and toilet in the gent’s loo, re-do the entrance hall, get rid of the bilious pink in the disabled toilet and then it will be time to redecorate the kitchen.
I would like to thank the committee for all their support over the last year. For their help and enthusiasm at fundraising, and the maintenance of the hall, where it seems that no matter the problem, our men can solve it.
Here I would like to give a special thank you to Sarah who has been a fantastic secretary over the last year, supporting me, keeping us all in order, providing very efficient minutes and agendas, which without we could not function. Also Pam, who as the booking secretary is responsible for hiring out the hall, and making sure the regulations are followed. This can sometimes cause problems, when letting the hall, but Pam’s tenacity and calm approach usually wins the day. Her knowledge and support has been invaluable to me, she is really the backbone of this committee.
Lastly but by no means least, I would like to thank the village for all their support at our events. I have to say Melchbourne is the envy of lots of surrounding villages, for the support we get, relative to the village size at the functions we hold. Without your support there would be no Village Hall.
Election of Officers
Sarah proposed that Helen Bone be elected as Chairman, seconded by Malcolm.
Helen proposed that the committee are elected en-masse. Including Sue Tusting, seconded by Joy.
Helen proposed that Matt Day be co-opted on to the Committee. This was unanimously agreed by the Committee and Matt is happy to join.
The Village Hall Committee has decided to cancel the party to celebrate the re-opening of the village hall in view of the fact that we have the Royal Wedding Celebration Party only three weeks before on 29th April.
Village dates for your diary:
| Friday April 29th 5-7pm Village Hall | Royal Wedding Celebration Party |
| Saturday May 21st Village Hall | Party - Cancelled Party to celebrate the re-opening of the Village Hall, with its new facilities. |
| Saturday June 11th | Safari Supper – please note this has been changed from 25th June. |
| Saturday June 25th | Safari Supper CANCELLED |
| Sunday July 10th | The 747th Melchbourne Feast Day |
| Sunday August 14th | Village BBQ |
| Saturday October 29th | Halloween Party |
| Saturday December 10th | Quiz Night |
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.
Service May 8: Cleaning Jill & Ruth / Flowers Ruth
Service May 22: Cleaning Pam & Sarah / Flowers Sarah
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Forthcoming Attractions
15th May | Upper Dean | 400th Bible Anniversary |
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5th June | Dalton Hall | Dean Dog Day |
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| Click here to visit Dean Dog Day 2010 web site | ||
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11th June | Pertenhall Village Hall | Fete & Food Fair |
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10th July | Melchbourne | Melchbourne Feast Day |
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29th/30th July | AllHallows Dean | Art@Dean |
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| Click here to visit Art@Dean 2010 web site | ||
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10th September | Dalton Hall & Fields | Dean & Shelton Flower Show |
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Contents this edition
Rector's Remarks
All in the Month of May
Seize the Day
Learning to Swear
May Day
Happy 400th Birthday
Kimbolton Flower Club
Health & Wellbeing
Honeycomb Editor
Around the Villages
The Deans
Melchbourne
Pertenhall
Swineshead
Yelden
400th Bible Anniversary
Dean Dog Day
Art@Dean
Melchbourne Feast Day
Dean & Shelton Flower Show
Pertenhall Fete and Food Fair
