N O M M O C COLDEN ER T T E L S W NE Volume 155

|December 2014

COLDEN COMMON COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

‘Tis the Season to be Jolly!!!

Wishing all Colden Commoners a very Merry Christmas And a Happy New Year

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COLDEN COMMON NEWSLETTER

The Community Association and Centre Our busy Community Centre is going to get busier; in January we have two new groups starting, Ballroom, Latin American & popular sequence dancing on Friday afternoons and Art classes, which should start at the end of January. We had art classes at the centre for several years, since they stopped we have tried to fill the gap with limited success, however with the Seasons Art group we hope that we have succeeded in bringing art classes to the village for those who want them. The dance group will be bringing some seasoned dancers with them but there is always room for more if you fancy some afternoon footwork. This class is for fun, so why not come and have a look. Look out for advertising for both groups when they start. We now have an urgent need to do something about the curtains in the Gloucester hall, as old as the hall, (20 years) it’s about time they were replaced, and it has been decided to install blinds, which will give us better control when needing to exclude all light for productions. The Parish Hall Trust have kindly promised 50% of the cost so we are hoping to make up the other 50% at the Winter market. You may have noticed the bright green box on the Centre wall, this contains the village defibrillator, now under the control of the ambulance service, it is ready for action and needs no training to use: but for those of you who are interested in how it works Peter Rockhill, a first responder will be doing some demonstration sessions at the centre. The “ What Do We Want in 2015” Forum It was a very wet night, but the temperature and enthusiasm in the Patrick Moore Hall was warm. After a couple of “warm up" games we settled down to planning fun events for 2015. Amongst the suggestions were a Talent Show, a Kids Library, a Race Night, Halloween Party, Music Festival, Cycling Group, Barn Dance & Flower & Produce Show. It was suggested that the Barn Dance and the Flower/produce show fitted together. Other suggestions that seemed to together were a street party in the car park to celebrate the Queens birthday, this could be incorporated into “the Big Lunch”, a national initiative. It was also felt that a community fun day could incorporate mini Hat Fair entertainment, (Punch & Judy & street Theatre) and that this could run right into the evening with live music and open air cinema. The question is are these events doable and are they what the village wants? Please let us know your views on the above or contact us with new suggestions by email, or fill in the survey on the website. Alternatively, if you do not use a computer just call in and talk to us. If one of these events takes your fancy & you would like to be involved event please tell us

www.coldencommoncc.co.uk Chair: Booking secretary Office

Maureen Rees Vanessa Martin

02380 692409 01962 711453 01962 715789

[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

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Commemorating 100 years since the start of The Great War, the village remembered in a packed church

9th Winchester Scouts lead Scouts, Cubs and Beavers into Holy Trinity. All ages were represented, from small babies to the very old. The Rev Lesley Martin led the service , with cubs, reservists, veterans and others taking part.

3 cubs lay their tribute

Photography by Gaynor Worman

Group with WW2 veteran Jim Bramley, after laying poppies on the War graves in the churchyard

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You will have no doubt noticed that Hampshire County Council have replaced the street lighting in the village which is owned by them. Normal faults should now be fixed within 3 days. In order to assist Hampshire County Council manage the performance of the service level agreement, the most efficient way of reporting faults is by using the dedicated website. This website can be found at http://www.lightsoninhampshire.co.uk/ Public/ReportFault.aspx or alternatively you can report faults by phone by calling 0845 603 5633. Faults on street lights within the ownership of the Parish Council should be reported via the Parish Office. The Parish Council have resolved to replace the Parish Council owned street lights. This is a sizable investment estimated at approximately £80,000 and the majority of the funding will be through a Public Works Loan payable over the next 5 years. This investment will considerably reduce the Parish Council reserves over the coming years and financial illustrations for the next 5 years have been carefully considered. Details of these considerations can be found in the Parish Council meeting minutes which are available online. A target date for the commencement of the installation of the new lighting is March 2015. The Parish Council is currently drafting the budget for the 2014/15 Financial Year, a draft budget will be presented to the Full Parish Council in January for consideration. The Parish Council believes

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that it is their role to provide facilities and services that are needed and have benefit to the village. A schedule of capital expenditure will be carefully considered, but given the investment for street lighting some difficult decisions lie ahead for Councillors. Parish Council Grounds Team After the retirement of Roger Atkinson in June the Parish Council took the opportunity to complete a full review of the open spaces and tasks currently performed. That review highlighted a requirement for a change in job descriptions and job title. Steve BurridgeHewlett was successful in his application for the new role of Grounds and Facilities Manager. Many congratulations to Steve in his new role. We hope to fill the role of Assistant groundsman, now vacant through Steve’s change in job role, by midNovember. Tree Works Major tree works are planned to take place on the Parish Council trees along the stream in Valley Close / Church Lane. They include pollarding the Willows, removal of dead wood and the removal of some self-seeded Ash Trees. These works are taking place under recommendation from an independent Arboriculture and Ecological Consultant. The target date for commencement of these works is the 11th to 13th December. If you have any question or queries on the works planned, please contact the Parish Office.

Debbie Harding, Parish Clerk 01962 713700 or 07775 627131 [email protected] Chairman Richard Izard 01962 712167, [email protected]

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Floodlit Tennis Courts at he Recreation Ground: Debbie & Geoff Charles, 11 New Road (opposite the New Road footpath to Recreation Ground) on 01962 712601 for individual hire of the courts

Sports Bookings For any enquiries regarding the availability /bookings of our facilities at either Colden Common Park or the Recreation Ground on Main Road contact Vanessa Kitt on 01962 713741 or [email protected]

Giving Something Back at Christmas Time Every Christmas countless animals find themselves homeless and in our rehoming centres for numerous reasons. Positive Training For Canines try to give something back; one of the ways is asking our customers to donate any unwanted or unused dog toys they may have at home. In previous years we have been amazed at the generosity of our customers and the amount we have handed in to the strays of Southampton, Greyhound Rescue West of England, St Francis Animal Welfare and RSPCA in Stubbington.

as kennels, they do not work with dogs from abroad and give lifetime support to their dogs. For more information on either charity please checkout their websites www.stfrancisanimalwelfare.co.uk and www.labradorlifeline.co.uk We are also helping both charities by selling their Christmas cards this year.

We do not expect anyone to spend lots of money hence why we ask them to look at their own disused dog toys but if they want to buy new toys we always This year we are doing the same again encourage them to visit charity shops and will be donating to St Francis like the PDSA as they can then benefit Animal Welfare in Fair Oak and too. If you would like to help us with this Labrador Lifeline. Both are small appeal we would be incredibly grateful. charities and in need of every donation You can bring your donation in to the they receive. St Francis Animal Welfare Community Centre on a Monday and is our local, independent run rehoming Tuesday evening or Thursday mornings shelter, with only 10 kennels that are whilst we are holding our training never empty. They do their best not to classes. The closing date for this is turn an animal away. Labrador Lifeline Thursday 18th December at 1pm. work with dogs in foster homes as well Leah Holdaway, Positive Training For Canines www.positivetrainingforcanines.co.uk May we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Happy Dog Walking!

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Holy Trinity Church If I was to ask what image reminds us of Christmas, I’m sure we would all have our own personal image that sums up for us that special time. If I were looking for a collective image, I suspect that the picture of a nativity scene would be among those near the top of the list. The interesting thing is that the nativity scene, not a modern invention, but which has developed over the years, in many ways, came from a concern that the real sense of Christmas was being forgotten. It was St Francis back in the fourteenth century who was concerned that the real focus of Christmas was being lost and taken over by the exchange of gifts. To re-establish the the first Christmas in people’s minds, he created the first nativity. He used a cave near Greccio, in Italy, using real people and real animals. Now this year here in Colden Common, at the Family Service on Advent Sunday, 30th November, marking the approach to Christmas, there will be a special form of nativity. A box with a knitted nativity figures, will be created and that it will be passed around the homes of different families through Advent and come back to the church at our Christingle Service. The nativity set will start its journey at the Family Service on Advent Sunday, where the first family will take it, keep it for a few nights then pass it to the next family. So keep a look out and join the list of homes for the nativity set to visit.

Services and events N Advent Sunday 30th November, 9.45am Family Service Tuesday 9th December, 5.00pm Rainbows Nativity Service Monday 15th, 6.30pm Cubs and Scouts Carol Service Friday 19th, 7.30pm Village Carol Concert Sunday 21st, 6pm Village Carol Service at the Methodist Church with readings, carols and band, telling the story of Christmas. 24th Christmas Eve, 3.30pm Christingle Service, popular Christmas worship for the ‘young’, with the Blessing of the Crib and distribution of Christingle oranges.

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Holy Trinity Church If you have an enquiry concerning a Baptism or Wedding at Holy Trinity, please contact me on the number below.

To book the church rooms, please contact Elaine Izard 712167 or at the church office, 715172

Vicar

Rev Jonah Watts

711216

Lay Reader

Gillian Hargreaves

713131

Churchwarden

Sylvia Mould

712753

A Letter from Winchester As reported in the last newsletter the Boundary Commission will now be considering the Councils submission along with others received). Both Parishes of Twyford and Colden Common have submitted their preference that the ward stays the same with a reduction from three to two City Councillors representing the two villages The Commission will publish its draft recommendations and commence further consultations running until 30 th March 2015.The final results will be known in June 2015.The Local Plan Part 2 process is rolling on and a further consultation event run by Winchester City Council for Colden Common was held on the 14th November. Any further changes resulting from this will be published as appropriate

estates improvements budget .I hope everyone can agree that the double yellow lines and the alternative parking makes it much safer for driving in that area. The current redevelopment proposals for Silver Hill are due to be presented to Winchester City Councils Planning Committee on the 11th December. With regard to the future of the Riverside Sports Centre there are still five options under consideration and more news hopefully will be forthcoming over the next few months. If you have any concerns on the above or any other matters please contact myself, or your other WCC councillors. In the meantime have a great Christmas and a Happy New Year.

. The additional parking spaces have now been provided at Spring Lane / Daryl Henry (712579) Lower Moors Road and Colvedene Peter Mason(712834) Close/Moors Close from the Council’s Richard Izard(712167)

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Methodist Church, Spring Lane

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Christmas is on the way; a special time in all our lives, but in the church it is one of the most awesome and wondrous times as we celebrate and contemplate how God became human in a new born baby. On that first Christmas morning in Bethlehem it was the shepherds who worshipped the Christ-child; shepherds who in that culture were always the butt of the jokes, the laughing stock, the lowest of society. But they got it right. They went from that manger rejoicing; they found what they were looking for. Are you looking for something that is missing in your life? Look to the cradle and the cross, for in them lies God’s total, unconditional love for You. You will receive a warm welcome at any of our services or events; see below Sunday Services: Every Sunday at 10:30am, with the exception of 28th December. Tuesday 23rd December: children’s storytime 3pm – 3:45pm for accompanied children 25th December: Christmas Day Family Worship at 10:30am Sundays 4th January and 1st February are All Age Worship at the 10:30am service MESSY CHURCH : On the fourth Thursday of the month (excluding December) 3:30pm – 5:30pm at the Church, Spring Lane. So our next date is 22nd January. Please contact Sarah Pearson on 01962 712804 for further details. FEST: Friday Fest is our new venture aimed at young people in Years 5 to 7 and will be held on the second Friday evening of most months. A hands-on opportunity to learn more about Faith through Engineering, Science & Technology Minister: Rev Lesley Martin 023 8060 2588

[email protected]

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VillageCarolService

Sunday 18th December: at 6:00 pm in the Methodist Church A service for All Ages After the service please stay for Mince pies and hot drinks

‘Drop in for Coffee’ Every Tuesday at the Community Centre: Hosted by the Methodist Church Opening time 9:45am to 12 midday Pot of tea or cafetière of coffee and home made cakes to tempt you!

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COLDEN COMMON NEWSLETTER

Ladies Group

Chairwoman

Our first meeting in September was a talk and slide show by HIWWT, on conservation and several Hampshire nature reserves that can be visited.

Kathy Maidment Tel: 01962 712

will be full of Fun and Food as usual!

The New Year starts with a slide show of Wiltshire Highlights on January 16th and on February 20th we are having a The talk and exhibition of the history of Pudding Evening, hosted by Kathy . birthday cards in October was most Do come and join our meetings ,held in interesting. the Bert Stratton Lounge on the third Friday of the month unless otherwise 'Christmas flowers' was the subject of stated at 7.45pm. our November meeting Our Christmas Party on 6 December.

Ladies Group Calendar December 6th Christmas Party January 16th Wiltshire Highlights February 20th Pudding Evening March 20th The Eden Project April 17th Audio Visual Australia

TWYFORD AND DISTRICT NURSING ASSOCIATION DO YOU LIVE IN THIS AREA? DO YOU NEED HELP? Twyford Owslebury

Morestead Compton Colden Common Otterbourne Shawford

The Charity is for individuals with needs who reside in this area, by paying for services or facilities to help them in the short term. We can also work in collaboration with other charities. We are here to help you through difficult times, when help is not readily available from other sources (the trustees do not apply any sort of means test) The trustees need to be sure that other sources of help have been explored and cannot provide retrospective funding. There is no complicated form to complete; often a simple telephone call is sufficient. We also respond to emergencies. The Twyford Surgery and Social Services know of us and can apply, or call the Secretary direct to find out more about us and find out if we are able to help you. Giselle Letchworth 01962 712158

CHARITY REG. 800876

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Want to be kept up to date with information and events in and around Colden Common? Sign up to the Colden Common Information Service at www.coldencommon.hants.gov.uk and follow the sign up for e-mail updates on the quick links section on the right. Register and you will receive Colden Common Community Information and announcements. These are emails about village events and meetings. You will not receive any commercial advertisements. This Mailman Message service is run by Colden Common Parish Council. Mailman is supported by Hampshire County Council and your email address is securely held on their Hantsnet servers

Mo – 02380 692611 car transport Carole – 714288 – mini bus shopping bookings Dave – 712986 mini bus drivers Jenny – 713784 Lunch Club We are pleased to say that Mo, our car transport volunteer organiser, recently received acknowledgement of the work she does in the form of a Winchester Mayors Award for Volunteering. The volunteer car system has been very busy recently, which is very good. We all like to think that we are helping those in need of support. We always welcome new drivers who have some time to give. If you need help with transport, phone Mo on 02380 692611 Our mini bus is busy too – regular shopping trips on Wednesdays or Thursdays, phone Carole 714288 to book. The bus can also be hired by authorised groups – Mo 02380 692611, or Dave 712986 will give you full details. We are always looking for additional drivers – can be driven on a car licence, training will be given, and under 70 years old. Dave has all the information. Lunch Club held weekly on Wednesdays in the Community Centre is going well. We do often have vacancies, if you would like to join us, give a ring to Jenny 713784. We have a band of volunteer cooks, who work in teams of four, each cooking just once a month. We do urgently need new hands to help us, please ring for further details.

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Opening times:

Learning through play! It’s that time of year again when we get all festive! Christmas is just around the corner and we are busy preparing for our Nativity Play. The children have been having lots of fun making personalised Christmas gifts also. Fingers crossed we’ll get a visit from the jolly red fellow himself! This is an important time of the year for essential fundraising for the Pre-School and we are very grateful for the support our parents always show. Pre-school are pleased to report that our music sessions at Colden Common Primary School have resumed and the older children are really enjoying the visits. The pre-school continues to support its staff with their continued professional development, our supervisor has graduated from her foundation degree earlier this year, with an additional staff member signing up to follow in her footsteps, our newest staff member is also well on her way to completing her level 3. We are very proud of all our staff members and are proud that we hold the highest quality of staff rating from Hampshire County Council. We are continuing to provide activities based around our children’s interests.

Pre-School Supervisor Jacqui Hadley Admissions Secretary

Amanda Pinney

Monday

8.30am - 3.00pm

Tuesday

8.30am - 3.00pm

Wednesday

8.30am - 12 noon

Thursday

8.30am - 3.00pm

Friday

8.30am - 3.00pm

We have been expressing ourselves with paint, using spray guns and powder paints working on a large scale, bubble painting to small scale water colours. Come wind, rain, frost, sleet or snow, our large, secure ‘all-weather’ garden means the children can play whatever the weather! We even have a supply of waterproof trousers! Within our garden, where we don’t have to be concerned that fouling by dogs has taken place, the children have collected the leaves to pile up at the bottom of the slides, taking it in turns to zoom down into. We have also used the leaves to create pictures of our families adding googly eyes and other collage material. We have been playing group games to encourage new friendships within the group, and working together. This has helped settle our new children at the start of the new term. Popular games that have been child initiated are Hide & Seek, What’s the Time Mr Wolf and Duck Duck Goose; a great way to increase our fitness and gross motor skills. We continue to run Phase 1 of the Governments strategy "Letters and Sounds" in our daily language group covering all 7 aspects of it over the term.

Chairperson

Adele Marshman 01962 712477

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Colden Common Tots Colden Common Tots is a popular drop-in session that runs on Friday mornings term time. We are not just about ‘mums’, but also Dads, grandparents, childminders – basically anyone who cares for babies and/ or young children is welcome! Our sessions are only £2 per family, and that includes tea/coffee and cake, various activities for the children, and a sing-song at the end of the morning. Activities include arts & crafts, sensory play, puzzles, small world play, dress-up and lots more – activities are changed from one week to the next to provided added variety. We also have a designated baby area with soft mats, bouncy chairs and baby toys. You can follow us on our “Tots in Colden Common” Facebook page for our latest updates. Do drop in and see us on a Friday, 10-11.30am in the Community Centre, or call Kathie for more information on 01962 712367.

Spirit Twirlers Baton Twirling group is our home-grown Dance and Baton twirling group. They train in the centre every Friday, at 4.00pm and 5.00pm term time only. This group entertains a Community Events free of charge. The children get the chance to entertain in their own neighbourhood. If your child fancies having a go why not bring them along and see what they think.

PAT TESTING Don’t Forget Philip Upton is still available and willing to PAT test equipment for Village Community Buildings and groups in return for a small donation towards the cost of calibrating the equipment. If you would like to avail yourself of his services please contact the Centre office.

Kickers TAE KWON DO Classes Fantastic exercise, self discipline, self defence and FUN Every Friday - at Colden Common Community Centre Juniors 6pm-7pm

Seniors and adults 7.00pm-8.30pm

For information Contact Des Day or e-mail [email protected]

07885 381355

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COLDEN COMMON NEWSLETTER

ColdenCommonParishHallTrust–recenthistory The old parish hall became beyond economic repair and was sold in 2004 for a little less than a quarter of a million pounds. The dissolution clause of its trust deed requires the proceeds of sale of the hall to be held upon trust for the benefit of the inhabitants of Colden Common. It does not require the funds to be used for the provision of a replacement building; neither does it preclude it. Trust money must be distributed to its intended beneficiaries within a reasonable time. Because the idea of a youth centre was afoot in 2004 the trustees sought and obtained permission from the Charity Commission that they could delay distributing the bulk of the funds for as long as there was a reasonable expectation of a youth centre coming to fruition, while making

grants to village initially out of income.

charities,

The trustees are free to distribute the Trust money to any village registered or ‘excepted’ charities at their discretion. Since 2004 the Trust has made 32 grants totalling over £110,000 to ten good causes in the village. The Trust is a registered charity (No. 301787) regulated by the Charity Commission. Details of its objective, trustees, income and expenditure can be found on the Charity Commission website. The chairman of the trustees is Warren Taylor, the secretary is Michael Blackstaff (Tel: 01962 713376 or email: [email protected]) Deadline dates for grant applications are regularly published in this Newsletter.

COLDEN COMMON PARISH HALL TRUST The next deadline for receipt of applications from village charities for grants from Colden Common Parish Hall Trust is Friday 19th December 2014. For an application form please apply to the secretary Michael Blackstaff, email: [email protected], phone 01962 713376.

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COLDEN COMMON WI Page 15

What a busy and delightful summer we have had. The talk by Tony Strafford, dressed in his beefeater outfit – dispite the heat, telling us all about the Ladies of the Tower. Our August outing to Buckingham Palace accompanied by family and friends. A knockout day thanks to Margaret for arranging it! The many evening strolls lead by Geoff, around the village and surrounding areas and more recently the 5mile walk from Pennington to Keyhaven Harbour with a pleasant lunch enjoyed with friends. Our talk by Janette Collette on Hearing Dogs for Deaf People inspired us all to collect milk bottle tops, used stamps and empty printer cartridges. Every little helps. What a pleasant evening was spent with John Sherbourne, him playing the keyboard and quizzing us all on the tunes and the dates recorded, plus giving us plenty more interesting information. It was a trip down memory lane for many of us. With the weather still mild at this late date we look foreward to the HCFWI Autumn Meeting At The Anvil , Basingstoke, with guest Michael Portillo.

Colden Common Women's Institute meet the 2nd Thursday of each month 7.15pm for 7.30pm at The Church Rooms, 154 Main Road, Colden Common. Website: www.hampshirewi.org.uk

November 13th One of our own members Dr Ann Couldrey will be giving a talk on her specialised subjects. December 3rd Group WI Christmas Service at St Mary's Bishopstoke. December 9th Christmas Wreath Making with friends and family. December 11th Festive Singalong with Jenny Sutton. January 8th 2015 Festive Dinner at The Fox and Hounds. January 16th Group WI Torchlight Parade in Winchester delivering The Centenary Baton. Celebratiing 100years of the WI. February 12th Jane Glennie gives us a look into the lives of Suffering Suffrugettes. March 12th Michael Curtis tells of his life in a Submarine.

Visitors Welcome and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all. Pat Phillips. President.

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A Letter from Westminster

COLDEN COMMON NEWSLETTER

Devolution for Scotland – and England: My recent column for one of our local newspapers focused on the subject of devolution following Scotland’s decisive NO vote over independence at the end of September. You can read it in full via my website but the point I was making was in-part the unfairness of the West Lothian Question, whereby Scottish MPs still vote in Westminster on matters long since devolved to Holyrood. It’s a subject I have received piles of correspondence about in recent weeks as you can imagine, including from Colden Common.

Parliament – we are now in the midst of our longest session of the year - after conference, before Christmas - and we’ve much to ponder including; the recall of MPs Bill, the ongoing ‘war’ with ISIL in Syria and Iraq plus huge amounts of preparation for the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement (strangely given in December) which will set many spending plans for the next five years. I am also busy with my new role as a PPS in the Home Office and Ministry of Justice where there is literally never a dull day! More via www.stevebrine.com/westminster

For me, this was unfinished business from Tony Blair’s botched devolution settlement in 1997 and it bred a resentment in England which my constituents have every right to feel. I raised it in the Commons with the Deputy Prime Minister back in the Summer and continue to discuss the issue with William Hague in his role of Leader of the House of Commons. As I said to William, for me reform of the unfair Barnett Formula must form part of this new settlement too because, while I am pleased the UK remains together, I want these anomalies addressed and do not want us to throw goody bags worth billions of pounds north of the border to reward the Scots for having the good sense to stay within our 300 year-old union with nothing in return.

Local NHS - No column from me would be complete right now without mention of our hospital and proposals which could bring major service change to the Royal Hampshire County Hospital in Winchester. The Autumn saw my second open meeting on the subject when we heard from senior clinicians (this time the focus was on maternity services) and I will go on giving my constituents the information they need to feel fully informed about what’s being discussed. That must be done in a responsible way and I can promise you that from me. More w w w . s t e v e b r i ne . c o m / a sk t h e se r i e s via

Speaking immediately after the Scottish result, the Prime Minister made clear his wish to see the West Lothian Question “decisively answered” and I think he’s right. The people of Scotland have spoken and now the people of England must be heard. Taking part in last month’s landmark debate in the Commons, I believe there is a crossparty consensus among MPs to get this done and to re-balance our fragile constitution but this must be done through the elected House of Commons because constitutional reform is not a matter for Prime Ministers (or even ex-Prime Ministers) to handle via the Royal Prerogative. We need to learn the lessons of 1997 and do this properly which, for me, does mean a cool-headed constitutional convention in this country which seeks to heal our United Kingdom after what’s been a bruising referendum north of the border this year. As always, I would love to hear your views on the subject.

Steve at The Ask The NHS Meeting Finally, my survey - I am currently conducting the largest ever survey among constituents as part of my role as the local Member of Parliament and you should have had one – individually addressed – through your door by now. If we missed you or someone in your household, please go to www.stevebrine.com/surveys where it can also be completed online. I hope you have a peaceful Christmas with the people you love the most and a 2015 to prosper. Steve Brine MP Winchester & Colden Common [email protected] Telephone 01962 791110 [email protected]

[email protected]

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In September we organised two sessions on stroke awareness. Wendy Docherty explained to those present the basics of how to recognise that a stroke is happening and what actions can be taken to help the patient. Early diagnosis and action can make an enormous difference to the outcome of the stroke. We held our AGM in October and welcomed Dr Andrew Isbister, who spoke ‘on one year on from the establishment of Clinical Commissioning Groups.’ He is a GP, and also the lead member of the CCG for the Winchester locality of the West Hampshire CCG, which covers our Twyford Practice. The CCGs are responsible for improving healthcare, by planning and buying in health services and working with a range of partners to ensure they are effective and efficient. Not an easy task, or one which can be achieved in a short time. Dr. Michael Evans gave an update on practice issues. He explained that currently they have staff shortages, both on reception and nursing staff. However doctor sessions per week have increased with a new doctor, Dr. Pope. Doctor Evans himself is cutting his sessions to four days a week. The Practice plan to develop meetings with groups of patients with health issues such as memory loss or diabetes. It is felt that such groups with a doctor and nurses present could be very helpful to the patients.

THE WOODPECKERS Environmental Group

THE WOODPECKERS -

Environmental Group

Our next event will be on Saturday 6th December, when we will be helping with leaf clearing in Holy Trinity Churchyard. A rake and gloves would be useful if you are coming to help! For details of when and where we are meeting in 2015, please phone either Paul or Jenny for information. We would like more people to come and join us! We usually meet monthly, on a Sunday morning at various locations around the Village, doing the jobs that need to be done, Church Pond is overseen by our Pond Warden, who often needs help. Also such jobs as cutting back brambles, clearing the steps to the Pond, controlling overgrown areas, planting bulbs and trees, No experience needed, some tools supplied, bring gloves. Children welcome, but need to be accompanied by an adult. Do contact to discuss further, Jenny Gray, 713784 [email protected] Paul Nicholson 713102

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Rainbow Playgroup have been having lots of fun so far this Autumn Term, and have been pleased to welcome lots of new children to our playgroup. We love getting out and about in the community and enjoy daily trips to the park especially as the weather has been so mild. We even have our own allotment where we have planted some bulbs ready for next Spring. The children really thrive from actively learning about how things grow and change over time. We would like to give a ‘big thank you’ to Paul Nicholson for painting a beautiful picture of our allotment which we have proudly on display at Rainbows. We celebrated Harvest with our annual Harvest Festival Service. The children learnt some action songs which they performed beautifully to the parents and Winchester Basics Bank received our food donations. We have started our regular trips to Colden Common Primary School to use the hall for a PE session. Apart from the benefits of a lively physical session the children are also given an opportunity to start getting familiar with the school premises. They also enjoy a short trip on the village mini bus. Our ‘Little Explorer’ sessions are proving very popular with the children. We are engaging them in mini-beast hunts, den building and even some tree climbing. This helps to stimulate the children’s natural curiosity of the world around them. We are now dressed for all weathers thanks to a recent grant and we can be seen proudly walking around the local area in our red Rainbow Hi-Vis jackets. We are looking at introducing some ‘Stay and Play’ sessions at Rainbows. These sessions are intended to provide a gentle introduction to Rainbow Playgroup for younger children. Parents and Carers stay with their children throughout the session. Younger siblings may also be brought along to the session if necessary. The session is entirely devoted to free play allowing children to become familiar with the toys and activities that will be on Chair: Kelly Marchment Booking Secretary

offer if and when they start Rainbows. These include puzzles and construction toys, the home corner, sand or water, floor toys and creative activities such as play dough, painting and junk modelling. The session will also include time in our secure garden so you will need to come dressed for all weathers. During the session children are invited to gather round the table for a drink and a light snack. Hot or cold drinks are also provided for parents and carers. *Look out for posters for details of dates and times* We are very excited to announce that our new opening hours are proving very popular so we are now able to offer early 8.30am starts every morning. We are now open Monday 8.30am – 1pm (to open until 3pm starting Jan 15) Tuesday and Wednesday 8.30 – 3pm Thursday and Friday 8.30am – 1pm For more information please see our website www.rainbowplaygroup.moonfruit.com Hopefully, by the time you read this we will have finally celebrated our 25th Birthday with a party. More details and photo’s to follow in the next newsletter. We are now looking ahead to Christmas and our Nativity play and hopefully a visit from Father Christmas at our Christmas party! We are very proud of what we offer here at Rainbow Playgroup. We are a well-established Ofsted inspected playgroup taking children from 2 years 6 months to school age. We meet at the Colden Common Methodist Church Hall, Spring Lane, from Monday to Friday. We offer our children a secure, happy and stimulating environment in three different rooms, plus our outdoor area. We are passionate about our continuous provision and plan our play spaces to ensure all of the children’s different needs and learning styles are catered for. We invite you to come and visit us before you decide on a Pre-school for your child. We love what we do and we are sure you will too!

Tracey Gilmour

Vice Chair: Roz Whitehead 01962 715140

Volume 155

Colden Common Primary School

Pupils at the school have started the new academic year with masses of enthusiasm for a whole range of activities and events. Firstly, we have been pleased to welcome two full classes of children into Reception where they have made a wonderful start to school life at Colden Common Primary. Our growing numbers have resulted in a new temporary classroom being erected on the Junior playground, with two new purpose- built classrooms due to start construction shortly. Improvements are also being planned for the outside environment, with ideas being collected for an innovative landscape project to utilise the fantastic grounds fully for our children. Exciting times at the school! Meanwhile, our Key Stage 2 pupils have been very actively engaged in a range of sporting events including a number of football

Page 19

matches against local schools and a trip by our Running Club to Kings School for competitive running against a number of other local schools. We took 42 children – the highest number ever. We were delighted with some impressive individual performances from the boys and the Year 5 / 6 girls achieved second place. Early in October, the school celebrated Harvest Festival with children bringing in their donations of food and a special whole school assembly. The generous donations were subsequently passed to the Eastleigh Basics Bank. We are now looking forward to all the excitement that Christmas brings with our usual annual events such as the Infants’ Christmas play, Carols in the Courtyard and Christmas parties – as well as some hard work in between!

Senior Citizens List It’s that time of year again, we are updating the Senior Citizens list before sending out invitation to the Senior Citizens party. Additions and Subtractions.

If you or someone you know would like to be on The list please let us know . If you know of someone who is no longer in the village we would also like to be informed



Please contact us by calling in at the Community Centre office Phone: 01962 715789 [email protected]            

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Volume 155

Celebrate Christmas Safely. Fairy Lights And Candles: Fairy lights make your home look festive and bright, but it is important to remember to use them safely. Never use indoor lights outside even if you think they are safe from the weather Fairy lights and Christmas tree lights don’t get used very often, so you should always ensure they’re in good working order before using them: - Check that the fuse in the plug is the right size. - Replace any blown bulbs - Check the wiring for any damage Don’t let the bulbs touch anything that can burn easily, such as paper or fabrics (be especially careful with other Christmas tree decorations). Always unplug fairy lights when you leave the house or go to bed. Candles can be dangerous, if you use them, always put them out when you leave the room and keep them away from decorations, greeting cards and curtains etc. Candles and nightlights are often used in celebrations for Christmas, they should never be put in or near a Christmas tree, plants, flowers or other foliage. You should also be careful that ribbons and other decorations aren’t near any naked flames. Never overload plug sockets.

Don’t Drink & Drive; Have a soft drink and stay alive! You can't calculate your alcohol limit. It takes less than you might think to become a drink driver. Nearly one in six of all deaths on the road involve drivers who are over the legal alcohol limit. At Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service, we hope that you do not have to invite us round during your festivities and wish you a safe, enjoyable, fire & incident free festive period.

Volume 155

Gardening Club

It’s was that time of the year again when the AGM reared its head and most of the members ran out the door. With the Chairman on his holidays, also a lot of the members, the meeting went well and we quickly settled to the enjoyable part of the evening, Ann’s pumpkin soup and a talk on myths and old wives tales around a Blackthorn Winter. The coming year will be the 20th anniversary of the club and to mark the occasion there will be visits to RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show and the Malvern Autumn Show plus the usual summer evening visits to local gardens. There will also be one or two other special events that are being planned. Come to one of our evenings at the Community Centre, it’s on the last Wednesday of every month, enjoy meeting gardeners, and find out more about our days out and events that we have planned for next year. Mmmm, the long warm summer seems a distant memory now and the current warm mild weather is prolonging the autumn flowers also the Nerines are providing a final floral firework display.

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back to clearing up the leaves and putting the garden to bed for the winter. I am covering the plants in a thick mulch of manure and compost that will help protect the plants from the expected frost and put some goodness back into the soil. Again I will be leaving the dahlias in the ground, they did well last year. Oh, nearly forgot, have to pick the final batch of autumn raspberries and late apples. All the best for Christmas to our reader and hopefully I might survive the New Year to “blog” again in the next year. 2014 Diary Wednesday 26th November – Joseph Paxton – gardener to grandee. 2015 Diary Wednesday 28th January at 7:30pm – Social evening – American supper. Wednesday 25th February at 07:30pm speaker. Wednesday 25th March at 07:30 – Spring show and speaker.

Jobs in our garden this month: It’s The Garden Blogger – End October 2014 Chairman: Henry Jane. 712991

Secretary: Rosemary Paul. 712406

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MEON VALLEY NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH

Volume 155

www .wehnw.org.uk REDUCING REOFFENDING COMPUTER SECURITY Every few months recently we have received an email, supposedly from a friend, saying something such as they have been robbed abroad and need money to get home. This well known scam invariably means that a hacker has accessed the address book on their computer and distributed the pleading message to the victim’s contacts. While sadly some of their contacts are persuaded to respond with money, the main victim is the user whose computer has been hacked. This type of scam is only one of many types of computer intrusion. Others may be aimed at securing financial or other data including passwords from your computer by inserting Spyware, or monitoring your online behaviour. Viruses may also be passed on. There are two aspects to consider, what to do after you have been hacked, and how to prevent these intrusions in the first place. There is much good advice on the Internet at www.getsafeonline.org and elsewhere, but briefly, first,

Prevention: Keep all your software up-to-date Back up your system on hard drive or Cloud storage Use good software

anti-virus/anti-spyware

Always keep your Firewall switched on. Use strong passwords with upper and lower case, numbers, symbols Use a password on your WiFi access Beware of spam emails. Ditch them. Take care and think before downloading files over the Internet Maintain a record of all activities linked to your email account eg bank, cards etc Post-incident Get professional advice

If necessary, advise/placate your contacts via an alternative address Have your computer ‘cleaned’ using a strong anti-virus/spyware program Consider changing your email address Consider impact on all activities with links to your email address Update your protection and other software Restore your data Take the preventative measures above

Apple Macs may be less vulnerable than PCs to these attacks, but are definitely not immune, and all sensible precautions should be taken.

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Senior Citizens Party Sunday 18th January Starting 3:00pm Mini bus transport available on request Your invitation will be arriving in December

Party Tea and A variety of entertainment supplied by local groups and artists More and more ladies are attending this class featuring Popular Latin and Ballroom Dances. Combined with proven fitness techniques to give you fast results and a heap of fun, it’s a good start to the week. Classes £5

Pay as you come—Mondays 9.30am to 10.30am

with less stamina - Wednesdays 1.30pm to 2pm at the centre Further information contact Abbie on 07815 716335

Mini Movers with Mum/Tots Dance at The Community Centre For the very young - enjoyed by all who have tried them out. This is a pay as you go class so no pressure! Held on a Tuesday morning – 9:15 – 9:45am £3:90 per class – pay as you go

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Volume 155

Drama and Music Group The Drama and Music Group is in exciting times at the time of writing, our singers are gearing up for our fabulous Christmas Concert - in Holy Trinity Church on Friday 19th December. W h y n o t e m a i l [email protected] or call 07952866048 to see if there are any tickets left, and let this lovely evening kick off your runup-to-Christmas.

would be there if we put on a play with adult and child actors for adults and children. By the time of the next newsletter I will be able to tell you if we've been able to generate enough interest and if so how to book tickets. In the meantime, if you want to get involved then please contact our chairman. The play being considered is the Wind in the Willows, not a pantomime but hopefully a wonderfully dramatic evening for all the family. If we are successful, performances will be taking place in the Community Centre from the 26th-28th March 2015.

As many of you know, it has been some years since sufficient people have volunteered their support to allow the group to put on a pantomime. At the time of writing we are planning auditions and other activities to Ed Rochead, Chairman gauge the level of support that 01962 715950

The street names off Brickmakers Road are associated with brick making, a major industry in this area. Listed from ‘the school end of Brickmakers Road’ the roads are Pallet Close - a wooden shovel for mixing and shaping clay Crowder’s Green - to press and shape bricks Burr Close – a clinker or partially vitrified brick Clamp Green – a block of clay burnt in a kiln called a clamp Setters Close – from seggar – a holder for fine pottery to be baked Skintle Green – to separate and rotate half dried bricks to permit drying Lewin Close – unknown – could be a person’s name Hack Drive - a frame for drying bricks Piping Road/Green/Close – glazed or unglazed clay piping

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There have been a series of History Walks, the first, on April 19th 2013 covered the Community Centre North & Church ponds, The Valley Stream & St Vigor Way Colden Common Community Centre The Foundation stone was laid on 2nd November 1991 By Mike Wright, Chair of the Parish Council. Mike worked tirelessly to ensure that the centre was built. He died on the 19th August 2008. Mike later became the Chairman of the CCCA the Centre replaced the village hall on Main Road. The Bert Stratton Room was named for Bert Stratton, (1909 – 1987), a local resident all his life, His main bequest was that the sale of a cartophilic collection should benefit the local community. The Patrick Moore Room was named after Patrick Moore, Who opened it and donated to the building of the centre. The Gloucester Hall was named for the Duchess of Gloucester, who opened the Community Centre. The centre was designed by Mike Warren, the project manager was Earle Rowe, both local residents. St Vigor Way - Named after St. Vigor le Grand, near Caen, Normandy. Celebrates 35 years of TwinningStarted 1978. The Twinning Charter and paintings presented as gifts to the Village hang in the Centre. The area where the St Vigor estate is now was once a ancient wood, mainly oak trees, but composed of all the trees named in the roads. Primary School - Designed by architect of new Southampton/ Eastleigh airport building – the original school is by Holy Trinity Church. The first school building on the present site was destroyed by fire in 1994 Upper Moors Road - Continuation of Lower Moors Road/ Twyford Moors Bluebell Wood - Preserved Woodland, owned by the Parish Council. Brickmakers Road - Built in 1960’s – open plan front garden, many close and green names on the theme of brick making- an important village industry. Valley Close - Stream links Main Road, Church Pond and Church lane to Brambridge Church Lane - Previously known as ‘Dirty Lane’ – a rough track with Brick works on the north side. Keeper’s cottage, with its mathematical tiles and chimneys is a listed building Vears Lane - Named after an old village family, resident for many years Church Pond - Excavated 1996 by developers of the new housing around St.Vigor Way, to act as a balancing pond, land around it is owned by the Parish Council – its upkeep and maintenance benefits from the local Woodpeckers Environmental group with their pond watch The New Inn - Catered for the brick workers – has its own well and is named as Brickmakers Arms on Map 1895 – 98. North Pond - In conjunction with Church Pond, acts as a balancing pond to provide protection against flooding – North Pond rarely holds much water. North Pond is owned by the Parish Council and is an important wildlife spot. Primroses and bluebells grow in sunlit glades. The pathway by north pond to St Vigor way forms part of the network of pathways in the village which help make Colden Common such a green and pleasant village to live in. If you would like to do this walk please email [email protected] for the directions.

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Mini Street Dancing Classes for 4-6 Year Olds When: Mondays Where: Colden Common Community Centre, Main Hall Time: 3:40pm-4:25pm Cost: £4.00 per session For a FREE Taster Session please contact us on 08442 448 558 / 07935 885 805 or email [email protected] For more information please visit www.fireflytheatreschool.co.uk

The new car park at the junction of Spring Lane and Lower Moors Road

Club 55 Now incorporating

Good Company Afternoon Every Wednesday afternoon starting in January 2015. 2pm - 4pm

Scrabble, board games and quizzes Table tennis, New Age Kurling, Music and Singing £3-00 per session which includes tea or coffee, cake and biscuits and unlimited refills

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COLDEN COMMON COMMUNITY CARE Please can you help us? Lunch Club for up to 24 elderly people is held every Wednesday at the Community Centre. We have four willing teams of four cooks who each take turns to cook once a month. Would you be prepared to help with the cooking? Basic cooking skills only needed; all expenses reimbursed. Meals are prepared at home and taken to the Community Centre for serving. The meals are so appreciated by our customers. Please consider helping, the commitment is only one lunch per month. Call Jenny for further details 713784. The volunteer car transport scheme offers help to those who have difficulty in using public transport to attend appointments with doctors, dentists, hospitals etc. We do ask for a donation from passengers to cover the cost of their journey and our drivers are reimbursed on a mileage basis. If you need transport, please give as much notice as possible. Mo is the person to contact on 02380 692611. If there is no reply, leave a message and she will phone you back. We also need more drivers. If you would be prepared to offer help as a volunteer, we would like to hear from you, please phone Jenny on 713784 [email protected] We need to replace our community mini bus; obviously an expensive project. We are having a raffle and hope you will purchase some raffle tickets. They are being distributed to all organisations in the village, but can also be obtained from Carole 714288 or Jenny 713784. The draw will take place on Wednesday 17th December. Lots of prizes have been donated. Our mini bus continues with regular shopping trips on Wednesdays and Thursdays. These trips have to be pre–booked. Phone Carole on 714288 to book, or for further information.

Everyone is Welcome to the switching on of the Christmas Lights . This will take place on Saturday 6th December at 6pm 56 Main Road, Colden Common All Proceeds to go Naomi House

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COLDEN COMMON NEWSLETTER

Colden Common Youth Centre Charity Progress has been made. On 24 October our Parish Council held an extraordinary Council Meeting just to discuss a motion that the Council support the principle of a Youth Building on the school grounds. The Chairman of the charity gave a Power Point presentation. This was followed by a few minutes for everyone to read a paper prepared by the Charity and one prepared by a villager in his private capacity. The public, followed by the Councillors, were given the opportunity to ask questions of the Chairman of the Council, Cllr Richard Izard and the Charity Chairman. This questioning lasted nearly an hour. Cllr Izard then asked for a straw poll of the public. This showed huge support for a youth building on the school site. Two hands were raised against. One person was concerned that the building was too grand. The five Councillors then voted on the motion, below, but added that in due course more details on the financial impact were needed. The result was four for and one abstained. The Parish Council supports in principle a Youth Building to be built on the school grounds, but further information is required on the financial effect on other organisations within the village and their future financial viability. What came out of the questions? The residents and Councillors want more details than could be given at such a meeting. It was proposed that there could be a round table conference of interested parties when their thoughts can be registered. The Trustees are working towards such a meeting. In due course, when the design has refined, the Trustee will hold a public meeting when the village can see the plans and discuss with the Trustees. Derek Conway, Chairman of the Trustees

023 8060 1013

Would you like some COMPANY FOR LUNCH? If so, please join us for A two course, freshly cooked meal, with friendly diners, for £7.50. Bring your own liquid refreshment. ‘Take-aways’ on request. Held on third Wednesday of the month in the Church Rooms, Main Road, Colden Common. All welcome. Ample parking. For further information or to book phone Chris 01962 713097. Diary Dates for 2014: 19 November. All profits to Holy Trinity Church.

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Colden Common Youth Club Are you in year 6 at school and looking for something to do on Monday evenings? Youth Club runs in term time on Monday nights from 6.30pm to 8.30pm in The Gloucester Hall at the Community Centre. If you are aged 10 or above come along and try a free taster session to see if you would like to become a member – we would love to see you. The Annual Membership fee is £5 (to include a new membership wristband) and each session costs £1.50.

We were so pleased to be successful in obtaining a ‘Have Your Say’ Grant from Hampshire County Council. Thank you to all who voted for us during August 2014 – your votes really made the difference. This grant will be used to buy some exciting new equipment for Youth Club including a new table tennis table to help with our healthy lifestyle activities.

We have lots of activities every week including table tennis, music, wii, We are looking for some new volunteers football, team games, arts and crafts, to help at Youth Club sessions on tuck shopNNthe list goes on so come Monday nights from 6.30pm to 8.30pm and see for yourself. if you are interested in becoming involved please contact Richard or We were sorry to say goodbye to Morris Vanessa, details below. Chifunda, Youth Worker, this term – he has new commitments so is unable to continue at Youth Club on Monday nights. Members of Youth Club and the Management Committee gathered on Monday 20 October at the Community Centre to say goodbye and make a presentation to Morris as a thank you. He has been at Youth Club for 6 years and has made many friends during that time. We wish Morris well for the future but he will be missed.

Chair: Richard Izard, 01962 712167 Secretary: Vanessa Kitt, 01962 713741

Dec

9th

Christmas Wreath Making

7:15pm Community Centre

Dec

6th

Naomi House Christmas Lights Turn On

6pm

Main Road

Dec

9th

Rainbows Nativity Service

5pm

Holy Trinity

Dec

11th

Christmas Sing Along with Jenny Sutton WI

7:15pm Church Rooms

Dec

15th

Cubs and Scouts Carol Service

6:30pm Holy Trinity

Dec

19th

Village Carol Concert

7:30pm Holy Trinity

Dec

21st

Village Carol Service

6pm

Methodist Church

Dec

23rd

Children’s Story Time

3pm

Methodist Church

Dec

24th

Christingle Service

3:30pm Holy Trinity

Dec

24th

Midnight Eucharist

11:30pm Holy Trinity

Dec

25th

Christmas Day Family Worship

10:30am Methodist Church

Jan

4th

All Age Worship

10:30am Methodist Church

Jan

6th

1st Good Company Afternoon

2:00pm Community Centre

Jan

16th

Wiltshire Highlights Slide Show Ladies Group

7:45pm Community Centre

Jan

16th

Torch Light Parade Winchester

Jan

18th

Senior Citizens Party

3pm

Jan

28th

Gardening Club American Supper

7:30pm Community Centre

Feb

1st

All Age Worship

10:30am Methodist Church

Winchester Community Centre

This newsletter is supported by the Colden Common Parish Council and published on be by CCCA Colden Common Community Centre, St Vigor Way, Colden Common, SO21 1

Feb

12th

Suffering Suffragettes WI

7:15pm Church Rooms

Feb

20th

Pudding Evening Ladies Group

7:45pm Kathy Maidment’s

Feb

25th

Gardening Club plus Speaker

7:30pm Community Centre

Mar

25th

Spring Show Gardening Club

7:30pm Community Centre

Defibrillator Demonstration At Colden Common Community Centre Friday 5th December 2014 and Friday 23rd January 2015 8:00pm start By Peter Rockhill who is one of our First Responders All interested persons welcome

Please check

Colden Common

Colden Common Village

Village Diary can be

Diary for dates when

accessed through

arranging an event

the CCCC Website

www.coldencommoncc.co.uk

ehalf of the Colden Common Community Association charity registration number 292438, 1UU tel. 01962 715789 e-mail: [email protected]. Cop y date 30/01/15

TheCommunityShop AttheCommunityCentre

OpenMonday—Friday 10am—4pm Selling a wide range of local produce including bread, cheese, honey, jams and pickles and fruit and vegetables

4Cs Café Colden Common Community Centre Open Monday - Friday from 10am-4pm Serving a wide range of hot and cold Meals, Cooked Breakfasts, Toasted Sandwiches and Sweet Treats. Our prices are very competitive.