Price 60p (£6.00 per annum) May 2021
Rector's Thoughts Being Fully Alive Inevitably last month I wrote about the way in which so many of us have had to share in the sorrow of others and even to have to bear our own in this past year since the first lockdown began near the end of March in 2020. Apart from the 120,000 from who have died from Covid 19 since the Coronavirus first arrived on our shores so many more people have died in this past year. In fact we have seen the largest number of deaths in a single year in this country since the second world war. Last month I wrote about the way in which we are all connected together so, as the poet and priest John Donne wrote, we should “ask not for whom the bell tolls” for “it tolls for thee\" and it is a sign of our maturity as human beings that we keep our hearts open to the sorrows of others even as we bear our own. But what about the Resurrection? Most of us know about death even if we would rather not think about it most of the time but what do we know of resurrection? What most of us know is that Christians believe that about 2,000 years ago a man called Jesus of Nazareth rose from the dead on the third day after his brutal execution at the hands of the Roman authorities in Jerusalem. That is an astonishing belief in itself and it energised a movement that has spread from that city throughout the world; but what difference does an event that took place so long ago mean to me? As a supporter of Southampton football club (the season began so well but has rather faded away) I will always hold dear the memory of the date in May 1976 when we won the FA cup. A wonderful event and a wonderful memory but what difference does it make? So too the events in Jerusalem all those years ago are wonderful but what difference do they make? The Resurrection only matters if it is real today. It only matters if I know it in my own life and so do you? About 100 years after the time of Jesus a man called Iranaeus from Lyon in France wrote some remarkable words: “The Glory of God is a human being who is fully alive”. How many people do you know whose ambition in life is to just get by and what about you? What if we all (Continued on page 3) 2
(Continued from page 2) emerge from the experience of the pandemic with the desire to be “fully alive”? And because most of us would probably try to achieve this through a kind of self improvement process (well that's a start, I guess!) could I please suggest to you that you pray that you can be fully alive. But do please be careful. It might be safer to just get by, just survive, in a mildly depressive state. If you do pray to be fully alive then you will find that God takes you seriously. Things will start to change. A Happy Easter to you all. A Postscript Since I first wrote this piece we have heard the sad news of the death of Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. As I re-read what I had already written I felt that there was nothing that I would put any differently. He was a man who lived every one of his many years to the full with a strong but always questioning Christian faith. And if anyone were to say that his full life was simply the fruit of his privilege then I would reply in two ways. One is that I have met a few privileged people over the years who are quite simply miserable and unhappy. The other is that he had to overcome a childhood that was entirely lacking in the kind of security that I enjoyed. He was a man who was an embodiment of the wonderful line from one of my favourite hymns, “Lay hold on life and it shall be thy joy and crown eternally”. Stephen Winter Rector of St James Hartlebury and the Worcestershire Severn Parishes Benefice ITEMS FOR SALE • Bosch Garden Shredder (electric) • Scotts lawn fertiliser spreader (manual) Free of charge but donation to church funds appreciated. Contact Chris or John 01299 250452 Editorial Policy Inclusion of any article does not imply endorsement of the content of that article. We make no judgement as to the accuracy of the articles that appear. If there are any inaccuracies, we offer the opportunity to correct them through the pages of the magazine. 3
PARISH REGISTERS Interment of ashes at St Mary’s 24 March 2021 Harry Sidney Mason. Age 92 Remembering Harry Sidney Mason “The Mason family are saddened to advise that Harry Mason passed away in December 2020. He moved to Crossway Green post office in the early 70s with his wife Jill and two sons. He delivered papers and some groceries to many locals during their time running the local shop. He could be seen locally, often walking around the area right up to 2016. He is greatly missed.” Margaret Griffin Has died at the age of 91. she was a well known resident of Hartlebury, a retired interior design consultant and a vigorous fund raiser for 55 years for Cancer Research. Among her many initiatives was the Hartlebury Big Breakfast at the Parish Hall Dr Anne Parker Died 16th April 2021 Anne led an extremely busy life juggling work as a GP with caring for the family. She and David lived in Charlton where they were the centre of that community and were always wonderful and generous hosts. The whole village of Hartlebury will miss her and our sincere condolences go to David and all the family 4
Duke of Edinburgh, HRH Prince Philip, Our bishops and the Dean of Worcester have offered the following tributes: The Bishop of Worcester, Dr John Inge said: “Millions of people, not just in this country but across the globe, will be saddened to learn of the death of the Duke of Edinburgh. As a most wonderful consort to Her Majesty the Queen, he has been centre stage for decades, bringing his considerable wisdom and wit to bear on so many situations. I join in giving thanks for the long life of a remarkable man and pray that he will rest in peace and rise in glory. I pray for comfort for all who mourn his passing, especially Her Majesty the Queen and all the Royal Family.” The Dean of Worcester, Peter Atkinson, said: “Prince Philip was a much-loved figure on the world stage for many decades. His support for Her Majesty the Queen throughout their long marriage, and his devotion to duty through countless public engagements until very recently, mark him out as one of the great men of our time. We mourn his passing, and are united in prayer for the Queen and the Royal Family.” The Bishop of Dudley, Martin Gorick, said: “Alongside everyone in Dudley I want to express my deepest sympathy to Her Majesty the Queen following the death of the Duke of Edinburgh. Many young people felt particularly connected with him through the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, which provided a strong grounding in service to the community and outdoor challenge. On the few occasions I was able to meet with him I found him someone with a great capacity for humour, and always interested in those he met. Prince Philip was a great servant of this country. We mourn his passing, and are united in prayer for the Queen and the Royal Family.” The Church of England has an online condolence book for people to leave a message in memory of HRH Prince Philip on their website. The ringing protocol is to chime a single bell 99 times at noon on Saturday 10 April. Photo credit: Press Association 5
Reflections on a Man of Faith and Devotion Many of us watched the funeral of a man who had devoted himself to being the supporting role to our current monarch for an extraordinarily long time. Not only did he sacrifice what could have been a rather successful naval career, but he also ensured his activities separate to our queen were within the same orbit, as it were. No doubt at times a rather difficult thing to do, and many of us quite possibly stare in awe at how someone could devote themselves in that way. However, as a faithful man himself, he would appreciate that in our own small ways, we too should be in some manner sacrificing our immediate wants and desires to grow into the image of God. What the old language would refer to as the mortification of the flesh. In some ways this may look selfish because it is done to make ourselves fit for God, and so in line with much of our culture, we are doing this to make ourselves feel better. But surely the real sacrifice is changing in order to answer to God's desire for us to be close to Him, from whence we might derive our own satisfaction. Much more difficult. James Homer 6
Editor’s notes John Hellens The End is Nigh? In the nicest possible way we all hope so! I sit here looking out on apple blossom under a clear blue sky and a return to previous activities seems possible. On Saturday I went clout shooting (long distance archery) for the first time in months and on Sunday I saw our local football team the Torton Turds playing on the village green with small clusters of people watching.. This set me wondering - will we drift out of lockdown or will we come together in some way to celebrate our liberation? And if so, when? How would you like to celebrate (if all goes well) the taming of the pandemic? Someone mentioned street parties others a mass picnic on the village green. Maybe a celebration breakfast at the village hall or even a post pandemic ball? Why not have a think and send me a couple of lines with your suggestions? I will put them together on a page or two . That will be our June issue. So, in the July edition we could be announcing any plans that villagers wish to promote. Experiences of 2020/1 In this issue a number of people have written about the effect the last year has had on them. New projects, new experiences,, new challenges. Do you have some to share? Don’t be shy, after all who is going to read it anyway! Have courage and put finger to key. Subscriptions Many of you have already found a way of paying your annual subscription. For those who have not our distributors will be calling , suitably distant and masked. Do have the correct change if possible. Contacts Advertising and editorial - John Hellens 01299 215657 [email protected] Deliveries - Val Hardwick 01299 937 7
CHRISTIAN AID WEEK 2021 IS FROM 10th - 16th MAY However, as last year, there will be no house to house collection and we must find other ways to encourage Hartlebury people to support Christian Aid’s work among the poorest of the world’s poor, regardless of their colour or their belief. Two thousand years ago Jesus looked to help the poor wherever he saw there was need, which is why we try in our very small way to do the same. We work with some of the world's most vulnerable communities in 29 countries in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America and the Caribbean. When emergencies strike in these countries, we are there before, during and after to save lives and support people in the long term. For just over seventy five years Christian Aid itself has been in the business of supporting people in their struggle to survive where there seems to be no hope and no help – and now they have the pandemic as well!. I think back fondly to the days when we used to knock on doors – and then have a ‘counting party’ with friends round the kitchen table, before taking the heavy bags of coins to the bank, as we watched the total mount up. No more! Now we ask for your generosity to share your own good fortune with others – on line at www.christianaid.org.uk. There is lots to read there and you will want to make a donation. We are sure of it. And thank you. Caroline B-T. 8
Science and Religion On 7 April of this year, the BBC ran a fascinating story on the news about a possible new fifth fundamental force of nature. Results from experiments with muons (unstable subatomic particles) in an accelerator near Chicago show them behaving in an unexpected way. This points to the possible discovery of a new law in physics and of new types of particles. Professor Ben Allanach from Cambridge said, ‘This is the moment I have been waiting for and I’m not getting a lot of sleep because I am too excited!’ We all know that science is about the real world and seems very exact. But I think it is also true to say that science uses ‘models’ to describe reality and in some cases these models have to develop and change over time. Consider the weather forecast. We have very changeable weather in our country, it is something we love to talk about when we chat to people. Mathematical models of our weather are put into computers, and this informs the weather forecasts day by day. Increasingly they are very accurate, but sometimes the forecaster says something like, ‘Later in the week we are not sure exactly where the weather front will be, so keep tuning in to the forecasts over the next few days.’ The model used is very good, but not perfect. ‘We will follow the science,’ said the government at the beginning of the pandemic. But did you notice that the scientists did not agree all the time? They were using mathematical models to predict how the pandemic would develop. For all sorts of reasons these models, and therefore the predictions, would not be completely accurate. Like the weather forecast, nobody was sure exactly how things would develop, especially when the pandemic was new and there was so much that we did not yet know about the virus. In March of this year, John Polkinghorne died at the age of 90. He was a very distinguished physicist, rising to become Professor of Mathematical Physics in the University of Cambridge. One of his areas was the study of elementary particles. In 1979 he resigned from his position in physics and left to train as an Anglican priest. He served in a number of parishes and then returned to Cambridge eventually becoming President of Queens’ College. 9
Christianity had always been central to his life. He described his position as ‘critical realism’ and believed that science and religion address aspects of the same reality. He believed that ‘models’ gave a provisional but tightening grip of a reality that is discoverable. As both science and theology explore a common reality, they have a starting point for meaningful dialogue. He also advanced the view that in both quantum theory in physics, and complex systems such as the weather, there are things that are inherently unpredictable. Uncertainty and unpredictability are issues in some areas of science. As I write this article, the news of the death of Prince Philip has come. In 1966 Prince Philip and the then Dean of Windsor, Robin Woods, founded St George’s House Windsor as a place where influential people could meet to grapple with issues related to our contemporary world. As I am sure many will know, Robin Woods later became Bishop of Worcester (1971 – 1982) and lived at Hartlebury Castle in our own village. St George’s House, set in the grounds of Windsor Castle, still flourishes today. One of the areas for which it was founded included bringing theologians and scientists together to try and find common ground. I am sure that many scientists would think that I am bonkers to believe in the Christian faith. At the same time there are scientists who believe in Christ or other religions. John Polkinghorne shows us there is ground for discussion about the links between science and religion. Stephen Owens is a retired vicar and member of St James' congregation Home Group There is a small ‘home group’ of people from St James’ Church who meet twice a month on Tuesday evenings. During the pandemic we have met for short meetings on ‘Zoom’. We often discuss issues raised by the Bible readings used at the Sunday services. Anyone interested in more information, please contact Stephen Owens on 251176. 10
HARTLEBURY PCC - 2021/2022 Ex Officio Stephen Winter 07773 760899 Rector Carolyn Gumbley 251148 Churchwardens James Homer 851637 Reader Richard Berry 07496 850192 Deanery Synod Rep Lynne Moseley 250202 Elected Members 250207 Caroline Boughton-Thomas 251346 Jeremy Broadway 253070 Fiona Mason 250297 David Parker 250508 Geoff Phillips 251459 Beryl Thomas (Treasurer) 250452 Chris Webb (Secretary) 250452 John Webb Churchwarden Emeritus Chris Webb 250452 Parish Safeguarding Officer Lynne Moseley 250202 WEDDINGS & BAPTISMS If you wish to book a wedding or a baptism please contact the Benefice Administrator, Nick Wright, at the Seven Parishes Office in the first instance. Nick co-ordinates these for the Benefice to ensure the availability of date, time and clergy. If you have any queries regarding your service in St James’ please contact Chris Webb (01299 250452), Carolyn Gumbley (01299 251148) or James Homer (01299 851637) Administrator BENEFICE OFFICE Nicolas Wright Tel 01905 622464 (please leave a message) Or 07968 531216 (in emergency only). Email:[email protected] Web: www.7parishes.co.uk Post: The Seven Parishes Office c/o The Old Post Office Cutnall Green Droitwich WR9 0PW 11
FROM THE CHURCHWARDENS WE’VE OPENED! It was with great joy that we were able to celebrate Easter with the re-opening of St James on Good Friday in readiness for Easter Sunday. Good Friday was commemorated with a time for private prayer and a ‘led’ reflection with our Rector, Stephen Winter. Easter Sunday started chilly, but St James was warm and welcoming for the congregation. We saw the Easter Garden, displayed under the altar, showing the empty tomb. It was the first time we had heard the organ being played for some time, and although not able to sing (yet!) we sang ‘under our breath’. Stephen Owens led our worship and it was good to chat with our friends, socially distanced of course, outside the church after the service. We are looking forward to continuing with our ‘usual’ pattern of services in the coming months. WEEKDAY MORNING PRAYER Morning Prayer, at 9.15am on weekdays, continues via Zoom - we remember daily those who have asked for prayer, those who have died and their families and, in particular, those who are lonely and isolated. ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING Each year the individual churches hold an annual meeting which is open to all, in which Church-wardens are elected by the whole parish, Parochial Church Council members are elected by church members, and other members related to Deanery Synod are elected too and are ex-officio members of the PCC. The Treasurer is appointed, accounts approved, and any other co-opted members accepted. Various policies that are required to be reviewed annually, such as safeguarding, are approved. This was held in the church on April 11th after our first 'normal' communion service for some time. There was no change in the membership this year, details of which can be found elsewhere in the magazine. Carolyn Gumbley & James Homer 12
Edwin Harris & Sons Funeral Directors 1 Crane Street, Kidderminster Worcs DY11 6XT Kidderminster : 01562 822625 / 823570 Bewdley & Stourport: 01299 829873 We are a well established independent family run business covering all areas of Worcestershire & the West Midlands. Circa 1897. Advice always available. Home visits arranged as required. Pre- paid funeral plans are advanced as part of our service. Private Chapel of Rest Customer Care Award Winners 2011 E-mail: contact [email protected] Visit our website: www.edwinharris.co.uk 13
Samuel Manning’s Charity Information from the Trustees’ Report to the Annual Parish Meeting – 4th May 2021 The COVID lock-down meant there was no Annual Parish Meeting (APM) in May 2020. This information covers matters from the original drafted Chair’s report for 2020 and since, up to this April. Since the trustees reported to the APM in April 2019 they have met on five occasions. The four Trustees – Parish Council representatives Mrs J Hipkins and Ms S Fisher (former Councillors); and community representatives - Mrs C Greatbatch and Mr P Holden - have continued to meet to carry out their charitable functions. Brian Gale, our long- standing Clerk, stepped down in October 2020, as part of his plans to move. The trustees would wish to publicly confirm their gratitude to Brian for his diligent work and assistance in the role. We appointed our current Clerks in November 2020 and she has shown herself able in picking up her responsibilities. Mrs Greatbatch stepped down from her role as a community trustee on 31st March 2021, when she moved out of the parish. The trustees would wish to place on record our profound thanks to Mrs Greatbatch for her hard work and service as a trustee over more than six years. The trustees have, in both 2019-20 and 2020-21, completed their usual programme for advertising grant availability and have made grants – two in 2019 and one in 2020 - to local people in hardship. When we met in February this year we planned our grant-making for this year, with advertising beginning in April. We have made contact with Stephen and Carolyn at St James’ church, hoping that the Manning’s and Almshouse charities can again work together to give assistance. We remind readers that we welcome any application from a person living within the Hartlebury Parish who is facing genuine hardship. The charity’s financial statement will be presented at the Annual Parish Meeting on 4th May. Peter Holden Chair (on behalf of the of Trustees) 14
News from Hartlebury Church of England Primary School Our value during April is Truthfulness Jesus answered, ‘I am the way, the truth and the light’. John 14:6 Here comes the sun! We are looking forward to a Summer Term full of sun and fun! We are hoping to get out on the field as much as possible, enjoying our exceptional outdoor learning, Forest School Area, pond and sporting activities. All the children and staff are looking forward to this time of year when the weather makes us all feel so much better, as we can do so much more! COVID Advisers We had a ‘surprise’ visit from the local authority COVID Advisers earlier this month! They were ‘out and about’ and found our procedures to be ‘exemplary’! So a big ‘thank you’ to all of our community, who continue to follow the COVID guidelines, keeping each other safe and reducing the risk of COVID in our school and local area! Bikeability – Keeping our Children Safe We are lucky enough to have Bikeability coming into school to teach our children Cycling Proficiency and Road Safety this term. Year 5 will be completing the Level 2 course and this will take place during the week commencing 19th April. So please be aware of the children as they will be learning around the village this week. Year 4 will be completing Level 1 on Friday 7th May, but this will be school based. Bikeability is a well-established organization, which teaches vital life skills of safety to our children. The children really enjoy getting out on their bikes and it’s good to know that this goes some way to make that experience as safe as possible. Charity fund Raising Red Nose Day Friday 19th March - Funny Power is back! We held an action-packed Red Nose Day on 19th March and raised an amazing £182.00 for this charity by dressing in red and doing lots of funny Red Nose activities in class. 15
Wear a Hat Day Friday 26th March On Friday 26th March the children came to school in their favourite hat! This charity aims to help find a cure for Brain Tumours, which is very close to a lot of our hearts. You raised a fabulous £155.00 for this worthwhile cause. Plant and Share Month: 19th April- 19th May 2021 Plant and share is all about growing your own and sharing it with those around you. Whether you’re growing in yogurt pots for the first time or you’re a seasoned grower with an allotment, Plant and Share month is for you. Covid-19 has made us all realise just how crucial fresh local food is and we all have the power to grow it ourselves! Food for Life Get -Togethers are all about bringing people together using the power of good food and Plant and Share aims to bring us all closer to our roots-both through our food and our communities. Find out more about how to get involved at: https://fflgettogethers.org/our-events/plant-andshare-month/ Hartlebury C of E Primary School Website We would like to sign post you to our school website. It has lots of really useful information to support you, your child and our school community. Whether it be support for mental health, our policies and procedures, news items, school uniform or something else you might need help with, it’s all there for your reference! Let us know your thoughts! I’m sure you will be impressed! https://hartlebury.worcs.sch.uk/news/severn-arts-online-music- tuition-offer-for-hartlebury-primary-school/ We are now taking registrations for September 2021 for children who want pre -school places! Our registration for Reception places in September has closed with the local authority, so if you are looking for a place please call us asap and we can help you with your application. As always we extend an extremely warm welcome to anyone who would like to visit our school; you really will all be very welcome- just contact the office and we’ll do the rest! Claire Grand Head of School Hartlebury Church of England Primary School Rectory Lane, Hartlebury Worcs DY11 7TD Tel: 01299 50312 Email: [email protected] www.hartlebury.worcs.sch.uk 16
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Hartlebury Church of England Primary School Has its very own thriving Pre-school, based within its Early Years Unit • We offer places for children the academic year before they start Reception, in a teacher led Early Years Unit • If your child is due to start Pre-school in September 2021 they can have up to 30 hours in our unit • We offer excellent staff/children ratios of approximately 1:7 • We offer amazing indoor and outdoor facilities; with great outdoor learning opportunities including our Forest School Area • We offer complete wrap around care from 7.30am-6.00pm, supported by familiar staff for our youngest children from the Early Years Unit • We offer a nurturing village school environment, at the centre of the village community But don’t take our word for it; come and visit! You will always be very welcome and we’re sure you will leave thinking this is a great learning environment! We do! To arrange a visit or request an information pack please contact our school office on 01299 250312 or email [email protected]. Our website also has lots of information about our fabulous school. 18
Seven Parishes Benefice Churches Back in January I was looking for a project to occupy me during lock- down in which I could use my interest in computer graphics. I had long wondered how the Seven Parishes Benefice was structured having seen regular references to it in the parish magazine. There are 8 churches in the Benefice: Hartlebury and Bishop’s Wood Ombersley and Doverdale plus the 4 churches known as ‘Four-Square’ Elmley Lovett Hampton Lovett Elmbridge Rushock The idea was to combine graphic images of the churches with some background information about them. For this project I used a free program called Inkscape. This is very powerful and creates vector images that can be scaled accurately to any size. It does this by mathematically calculating lines, curves and colour fills. Inkscape can be used for very different projects, such as web graphics, technical diagrams, icons, creative art, logos, maps. The process makes use of layers, like the layers of a cake, but Inkscape layers are transparent. The bottom layer holds a photo of the church. In this case there is a clear view, but for many churches it was difficult to get photos without trees, or in one case scaffolding, getting in the way. On a 2nd layer, I used the Bezier tool to follow the main outlines of the photo. This powerful tool can draw accurate lines, smooth curves and shapes. There are tools to create other shapes, such as rectangles, ovals and circles, polygons. 19
I created a 3rd layer to hold fine details, making shapes and fills, again following the photo. In the original image I used colours—the magazine is printed in greyscale. On a 4th layer, I traced out the roof tiles and bricks. I created a layer just above the photo layer to colour individual shapes, using either flat or gradient shading. To finish, I made all the layers visible Mike Tooley except the photo layer. Bishop’s Wood completed image > Going forward, I plan articles with information about all the Benefice churches with accompanying images. 20
The Tap House Hartlebury Pub Restaurant & Brewery Take Away Food & Drinks Friday & Saturday 12-7.30pm Sunday 12-3pm Free Delivery to Hartlebury Residents Tel 01299 253275 See our full menu at www.thetaphousehartlebury.co.uk/restaurant-menu Tap House Burgers all Served With a Side of Chips £8.00 to £9.50 * Southern Fried Chicken Burger * Black & Blue Burger * The Classic Burger * Texan Pulled Pork Burger * The Moroccan Burger * Halloumi Burger (Vegetarian) Tap House Classic Dishes Served with a Side of Chips £8.00 to £9.50 * Pulled Pork Chicken * Mexicana Cheesy Chicken * Hawaiian Chicken * 10oz Gammon Steak Melt * Large Cod & Chips (Free Mushy Peas) * Scampi & Chips * Beef Lasagne & Chips * Vegetable Lasagne & Chips (Vegetarian) Children’s Meal Served With Chips All £3.50 Chicken Nuggets, Sausage, Fish Fingers or Scampi Sides Chips £2.00 Onion Rings £2.00 Dessert Home Made Triple Chocolate Brownie £2.00 add Cream or Custard Extra 0.50p Baguettes Served With Salad & Chips £4.95 to £5.95 * Classic BLT * Sausage & Onion * Steak & Onion * BBQ Pulled Pork * Chicken & Bacon * Cheese & Onion Jackets Potatoes Served With a Salad Garnish £4.95 to £5.95 * Cheese & Onion * Tuna Melt * Cheese & Beans * Chili & Mexicana Cheese * Pulled Pork * BBQ Pulled Pork TRADITIONAL SUNDAY LUNCH, Roast Beef/Roast Pork/Roast Turkey/Nut Roast £7.50 Served with Roast Potatoes, Seasonal Vegetables Home Made Gravy. Sides, - Cauliflower Cheese £2.50,Garlic Potatoes £2.50… ….. CALL 01299 253275 to Place All Food and Drink Orders 21
Hartlebury Gardening Club Past favourites - Vegetable Gardening – Keith Newnham Keith visited us for many years as a judge for the annual show, but as a lively and very knowledgeable speaker on the growing and showing of vegetables, he came to speak to us in April 2010 His wise advice for beginners was to choose three things that you like to eat and concentrate on growing them well. It’s very easy to try too many different plants at once and fail to do justice to any of them. Also remember that conditions determine planting time, not the date. This year the cold and windy weather conditions may have delayed some things and the ground is only just starting to warm up, so ignore dates on seed packets and gardening books and delay planting accordingly. To get the longest parsnips make a 4ft hole with a crowbar and fill most of it with sand. Always use fresh seeds for parsnips as they do not keep. Plant 3 seeds and when they germinate, pull out all but the strongest. Do not hoe or water as it shortens the roots. Do not over fertilise or manure as they will fork. If you want to grow onions from seed, put fertiliser or manure in the top 9 inches of soil, not in a trench underneath. Space them out to get between the rows to weed. More popular is to plant onion sets (small bulbs) and if you trim the tops and tails before planting, they are less likely to be pinched by birds. It’s a good idea to pot up a few spare sets on the side as some will fail and can be replaced, or you can always eat them early as spring onions. When planting sets, always make a hole rather than pushing the bulb into the soil which makes a hard pad under the roots. Potatoes should be put in a light, frost free place to chit. The shoots from the potato eyes need to be short and strong, not drawn. We were shown that potatoes could be grown by placing the tuber under black polythene with a slit for the stem to grow through. The potato sits on top of the soil and the new potatoes grow there. When you roll back the polythene you can check their progress, pick enough for a meal and then cover them up again. Later, when talking about pests, Keith mentioned that this method can make it easier for others to harvest your potatoes too. It is best not to dwell on the last part of Keith’s talk. He showed us slides of every sort of beastie who is waiting to take more than their share of your crop. General advice is to regularly check the undersides of leaves and be prepared to squidge them. Keeping air moisture levels up in greenhouses and conservatories can keep white fly and spider mites down. BUT! Remember that some creepy crawlies are on your side, they eat the baddies! Pat Jewkes ***Next Meeting by Zoom: Three West Country Gardens – Adrian James ***Wednesday 12 May 7.15 for 7.30 pm start 22
News and Events from We’re re-opening on Tuesday 18th May! Thank you to everyone who has supported us through this difficult year. Through donations, volunteering or spreading the word about us, your help and enthusiasm for Hartlebury Castle has kept us going as we work to share the Castle’s characters and stories with the public. We had a lovely April and it was lovely to welcome visitors back to the grounds and watch families enjoying the open spaces and walking around the moat. The Easter bunny even made an appearance on Easter Sunday! We are therefore very excited as we work towards re-opening the Castle buildings from Tuesday 18th May, in line with the Government road map. Discover the fascinating stories of the bishops of Worcester, and their links to national events, the intriguing characters who lived and worked at the Castle in our new free audio guide (children’s audio guide also available) and the wonderful histories that shaped our county. We will have Covid safety measures in place, including social distancing reminders, hand sanitiser stations and masks must be worn inside the buildings. You can find our full Covid Visitor information on our website. We were also delighted to receive DCMS Culture Recovery Funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund in April, which has enabled us to ensure that your visit to the Castle will be safe and enjoyable. HRH The Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh We were saddened to hear the news about The Duke of Edinburgh on Friday 9th April. Many remember his visit to Hartlebury with Her Majesty the Queen, on Maundy Thursday 1980, where villagers lined the streets to wave at the Royal couple, on their way to lunch with the Bishop of Worcester, Robin Woods at the Castle. Before his posting in Worcester, Bishop Robin had been Dean of Windsor. In his autobiography, he comments that he came to expect constructive feedback about his sermons from Prince Philip during this time! He was good friends with the Royal family, and formed a close friendship with The Duke of Edinburgh, when they worked together to set up St George’s House in 1966. The magnolia tree, planted by the Queen on their stay in 1980, still stands in the Carriage Circle today, and is a beautiful reminder of the couple’s visit and their friendship with Bishop Robin. 23
Coming up at Hartlebury Castle All of our events have been carefully planned in line with Covid-19 guidelines to ensure that you can safely enjoy your day. Bank Holiday Monday 31st May, 11am—5pm Terrific Teddies & Toys Where do teddies go when their children are asleep? Top Toy Island! Enjoy fantastic storytelling with props and puppets from Ian Craigan as he brings you Adventures on Top Toy Island. Storytelling sessions must be pre-booked. Join us for a teddy bear hunt, make a jumping jack paper teddy and bring your favourite teddy bear along for a picnic! Hayley’s Kitchen will be open in the Carriage Circle selling sandwiches and cakes, or bring your own along. Booking required, please see our website for more details. Tuesday 1st—Friday 4th June Terrific Teddies & Toys—Holiday Crafts Enjoy Teddy & Toy themed craft activities for May half term as you create a jumping jack paper teddy & peg toy. Open Air Performances We’ve got a wonderful range of Open Air performances planned for the Summer, including Alice in Wonderland, ABBA Experience and The Film Orchestra community bands. To find a full list of performances and ticket information, please visit our website www.hartleburycastle.com/events There will also be days through the season where you can see Classic Cars in the Carriage Circle. Volunteer with us! We’re looking for new volunteers to join our friendly team. We have a range of roles available, so whether you can spare a few hours a week, month or just for one off event days, we’d love to hear from you. You can find out more about volunteering by visiting our website. Your safety is important to us and we will ensure that all volunteering can be done in a safe and Covid secure environment. To find out more about events, opening hours and admission visit: www.hartleburycastle.com Follow us: /Hartleburycpt /Hartleburycastle 24
Appreciating Our Community Over the last year I have come to appreciate what a nice village Hartlebury is to live in. When John delivered our March issue of the magazine we chatted about my experiences during the pandemic and he has asked me to put my thoughts into the parish magazine We have fixed rainbows on windows, put up NHS road signs in the village and joined together to clap for the NHS and front line workers. We have held socially distances drinks with neighbours on our own drives to celebrate VE day and Christmas and if possible we will be doing this again Neighbours who have been ill or who have been in isolation have received offers of help and people living on their own have received regular contacts. We have talked to neighbours whom we did not know before and have made time to chat and hopefully made friendships for the future It is a privilege to be living in the Worcestershire countryside. We have walked along the beautiful lanes, footpaths, towpaths and disused railway lines, things that only the countryside can offer, all reached from your own front door. We have discovered new places to visit and learnt more about the area Although a friendly village before, I have noticed that everyone you meet now says hello. Even casual hello's from before have now turned into longer catch ups (social distanced of course!) 25
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Land Rovers, Long Hair and Lettuce “Dad, Can we have an allotment please?”. We stood in a field on the edge of the village, on a wet day in October, in front of us were a selec- tion of allotments, some well tended, others less so. I looked for some- one to ask (this was not the first, or even the second time an allotment had been suggested). There was no one about. That was over 15 years ago. Today the allotment field on the edge of the village of Hartlebury has more than twice the number of plots as back then and there always seems to be someone about to ask! I regularly have passers by asking how to obtain an allotment. In fact there is a waiting list! So what has changed? I think there are a number of factors: COVID has obviously restricted movements and given us all more time at home. The global focus on climate change, sup- ply chains and healthy living has influenced us a little. New homes with smaller gardens meaning less space for growing anything and of course Monty Don, Pippa Green- wood and Hugh Fearnley- Whittingstall engaging us on TV and radio – after all of the years of having an allotment, the only thing I have in common with Hugh is long hair (thanks COVID) and a desire for a Land Rover! Allotments have been on the same site in Hartlebury since at least 1902. The land today is leased from the Church Commissioners by the Parish Council, who under the 1908 and 1925 allotment legislation in England have a duty to provide allotments of up to 40 square poles upon request. 27
40 poles is about 1000 square metres and although there are 2 such plots on the Hartlebury field (not for the faint hearted), the more accepted size today across England and Scotland is 8 or 10 poles (200 or 250 sq. m). Hartlebury Parish Council have been supportive over the years and since March 2020 have discussed allotments at many of their meetings. The efforts of their allotment committee and pioneering spirit of Councillor Clare Atkinson, in particular, have seen all of the allotments being tended, new spaces being opened up and engendered a real community spirit. We now have an allotment association, formed by the plot holders with aims including: to better interact with the Parish Council; support the plot holders; encourage some re-wilding in the unused areas; and encourage access to all. On site we have some traditional plots with sheds, potatoes and lots of digging and some with flowers, novel uses of coloured paint and no dig beds made from pallets, compost and the encouragement of Monty on BBC2. There is a great variety of ideas, lots of support from more experienced plot holders and the enthusiasm of the newer tenants is infectious. Worth a visit if you are out for a walk, if the field gate is open there will be someone about to speak to. The Parish Council have been informed by the landowner, the Church Commissioners, that the land may be sold – and thankfully the Parish Council are exploring the options to buy the land, a valuable green space and village amenity. Hopefully this will encourage more to take up the opportunity of digging, not digging, planting, re-wilding and communing with other residents of the Parish of Hartlebury. Me, I am still looking for a Land Rover, but hoping to get my hair cut now that the barbers are open! Simon Emeny [email protected] Details of allotment vacancies from [email protected] 28
Ombersley Family Dental Practice Mrs Andy Wright B.D.S. (Edin) A friendly private practice specialising in preventive dental care for all the family in a happy relaxed atmosphere Andy is now joined by Dr Duncan Powell New patients welcome Cosmetic treatments including whitening Orthodontic treatments using Invisalign or FastBraces systems Sports gum-shields for all ages in various colours and designs Same day emergency appointments Large car park Racks Lane, Ombersley, Nr Droitwich, Worcs. WR9 0EN Tel: 01905 621881 www.ombersleyfamilydental.co.uk 29
late news...late news...late news… Concerns over trespassing at Wienerberger quarry site Local people will be aware there is a regular liaison meeting held with two large businesses – Biffa (waste disposal) and Wienerberger (brick producers). This is attended by community representatives, managers from the two firms and the Environment Agency, amongst others. It is a forum for local people to keep informed about any issues connected to the landfills and the factories, to raise concerns and to exchange information. At the recent liaison meeting in April the manager at the Waresley Wienerberger plant brought to our attention the recent trespassing on their quarry (off Walton Road). While the people who got in did damage which will be costly for the firm, their main concern was the very great danger to anyone getting into the quarry workings. There are very deep pools with steep sides, as well as deep silt and mud. Anyone slipping in would be in very great danger. He asked the representatives from the community to bring this to the attention of local people. Parents of young people who will be out of school during the long holidays this summer are asked to be particularly aware, that they must keep away from the quarry. The local representatives will keep readers up to speed with other pertinent news from the meetings. In the meantime… take care. Peter Holden 30
Hartlebury History Society The History Society Committee has not yet made any decisions about when meetings will resume. Normally the programme for the year is put together in January, once all of the proposed Speakers have been contacted and arrangements made. Our 2021/22 Programme was not compiled as usual as there was too much uncertainty when we began the year in Lockdown. But we’ll post details on our website, – www.hartleburyhistory.org.uk and let our members know once we have a Programme planned. In the meantime, having reproduced several articles based on texts from our Discovery magazine and our website, over recent months, I have been looking around for other stories with a historical connection. We are surrounded by history, and we are, of course, making history all the time. Many people combine their interest in history with a passion for collecting something. This can vary from stamps to classic cars, and everything in between. In some cases it merely involves notching up another “find” – visiting a place of interest, logging a locomotive number and so on. Whilst reading through a copy of Country Walking magazine recently I came across an interesting article about Trig Points, and discovered there are people who make a mission out of visiting and “bagging” as many as possible. https://trigbagging.co.uk/ What have Trig Points go to do with History? Trig Points, themselves, have an interesting history. They are still located all over the country and we have several in our immediate area at Stagborough Hill, Coneygreen Farm, Bishops Wood and at Poollands Farm on the edge of Hartlebury Common not far from the car park opposite Wilden Top Road. Each one has it’s own reference number. http://trigpointing.uk/trigs/ Between 1935 and 1962 around 6500 concrete pillars were installed on high points all over Britain. Trig Points. They look like a fairly uninteresting squat obelisk of concrete, and yet they serve an incredibly useful function. They have played a key role in producing the most accurate maps of the British Isles. 31
The catalyst for the science of cartographic triangulation arose out of conflict and astronomy. Back in 1745, during the Jacobite Rebellion the British Army only had basic maps of the Highlands, which limited their knowledge of the terrain. The Board of Ordnance realised that better knowledge was needed, and commissioned 2 officers to map out the Central Highlands using triangulation. A little later in 1783 Cassini de Thury (an astronomer) put forward the idea of an accurate survey between Greenwich and Paris to aid French and British astronomers with their observations. The Anglo-French collaboration was completed in 1787. Three years later the Ordnance Survey was created, with the task of mapping the nation – a project known as the Re-triangulation of Great Britain. The project was a huge success, and was completed by 1823. However, by the 1930’s OS realised that an even more refined triangulation could be achieved. The principle involves taking measurements of angles and distances between 3 neighbouring high points, creating a triangle with known distances, which can then be connected to the next triangle, and so on creating a “grid” across the country. Brigadier Martin Hotine, a mathematician, cartographer and First World War hero, became Director of the re-triangulation project. He came up with the concept of a triangulation column, designing the trig point we see today and overseeing the installation of the network of structures across the country. Although GPS has now taken over, 6190 trig points remain in place across the country, and could still be used. Carol Priest 32
Footpaths Matter, May 2021. Ooooh, the carpet of wild garlic along the River below Lincomb Lock! A double pleasure of a beautiful vista as well as a nearly overpowering aroma! I really must be brave and look up some recipes for wild garlic!! I have had a query about the Rights of Way through the Lincomb Lock Caravan Park, or lack of them perhaps, and why they are not better way marked? It is possible to get shouted at if you attempt to follow the prescribed routes of these Rights of Way! Now as a Footpath Warden, you will understand that this is only my opinion, I have no authority whatever and I am not allowed to be combative in any way. I have always to be Mr. Nice! (I am sure many of you will recognise this aspect of my character!!) In reality there is a lot of good news! The footpath from the A4025 from the ABC steps that goes through to Lincomb used to be completely blocked above the caravan Park. For 10 or 12 years now this has been open and is very well used! However, this does always require regular attention! However, well established caravans and their pitches obscure some of the Rights of Way that pass through the Caravan Park. I am not allowed to waymark a Right of Way unless it is on the actual Right of Way as marked on the definitive map. Still with me? To be diplomatic, there are issues involved here! However, I am hoping that in due course, that when matters return to normal and the County stop working from home, then I will be able to place \"Permissive Path\" signs to show the nearest route to the actual route. Permissive Paths have to be agreed with the Land owner and they do not extinguish the original Right of Way. Indeed. there are some Rights of way in our Parish that are still showing that they go through fishing lakes! Perhaps best described as \"Work in Progress\"! (Don't hold your breath on this one!) There always seems to be a requirement for regular maintenance of the track from Lincomb Lane to Bell's Farm Shop. The problem here is that many of the trees have rotted away and are only held up by the ivy growth on them. Whenever there is a strong wind it doesn't take much to make them collapse and block the path. This track is such a treasure though as it is sunken and 33
only wide enough for a cart to pass, it is easily possible to imagine how it must have been used in days of yore. To imagine the traffic of carts groaning under loads of hay and farm produce with horses sweating as they strain up it. Perhaps ploughboys returning home in the dusk to unharness, clean and feed their shire horses! This natural track in use and possibly going as far back as Roman times! A thankyou to Sandra and Geoff for their ongoing work on the geocaches. This is becoming a comprehensive network and a real resource. Especially useful as all visits are logged so there is proof of the regular use of the paths! Also thanks to Andrew Boddey who has been out regularly with his secateurs and loppers. All reports welcomed! John Denby. Footpath Warden. 01299 250429. [email protected] To report footpath problems, as well as copying me in, please send to :.https://e-services.worrcestershire.gov.uk/onlinereporting/ findlocation.aspx?faulttype=8 Edge of Hartlebury Common 34
Hedgerow Ramblings Dear Villagers During the glorious Spring of 2020, when the first lock-down led to empty roads, more birdsong and dolphins in Venice, I would take to my bike and cycle through the back lanes of the village. I began to take photographs of an ancient oak, next to my route, every few weeks as it came into leaf. It is the most perfect shape and, because of it’s position in an open field has been allowed to stretch out in every direction. This Spring the cold snap has slowed down it’s progress a little, but it is now covered in small bronzy buds. I fell to musing about this tree. Let us suppose, from the size of it’s girth, it is 300 years old. This takes us back to 1721, when the king was George 1st and the prime minister, Robert Walpole. There was a great deal of fuss about the ‘South Sea bubble’; a great financial scandal which proved the point, if a scheme looks too good to be true, it probably is! This catastrophe led to the ruin of many politicians and the imprisonment of the Chancellor of the Exchequer, as well as revealing dubious financial links to the King himself and two of his mistresses. Other events that year included: the setting up of Guy’s hospital; the establishment of a mail service between London and New England; and, most interestingly, Lady Mary Wortley Montagu first introducing the idea of smallpox inoculation to Britain. So, maybe we can conclude… there is nothing new under the sun! Back to the noble oak. Some facts of interest you may enjoy… Oak gall ink was used in Britain from late Roman times up until the 19th century. Indeed it is still produced today, for those who like it. HMS Victory was made from the wood of 6,000 trees, most of these were oak. If any couple should reach 80 years of marriage; this is not a silver, gold or platinum anniversary, but oak. Acorns are like the cheeseburger of the forest floor, easy to find and nicely packaged. These feed squirrels, rabbits, many birds, and deer. Humans have ground them down to make flour. 35
A mature oak tree will support over 280 different species of insect. The oak is a favourite tree for many owls, including the small owls which hunt by day. I discovered a poem recently, called ‘The Oak’ by Alfred Lord Tennyson Live thy life, Young and Old like you Oak Bright in Spring living gold; Summer-rich Then; and then Autumn-changed Soberer-hued Gold again. All his leaves Fall’n at length Look, he stands, Trunk and bough Naked strength. Keep your spirits up, Hermione Annual Parish Meeting Wednesday 5th April 7.00 pm by Zoom Every year in May parishioners have the opportunity to talk with their council about anything and everything that is on their minds. This year it is a virtual meeting via Zoom so you will need the link provided by the council. This can be obtained from Sheridan Tranter via email [email protected] or by telephone to 07813 623458 Everybody Welcome! 36
Of Clouds and Silver Linings They do say that “every cloud has a silver lining” and I think I have recently experienced just that! A couple of weeks ago I was on a Zoom call, so ignored my ringing telephone. The caller had kindly left a message so – thinking it would be a call for my second vaccination – I telephoned the surgery as requested. It wasn’t. The message asked me to ring the surgery as they had a message for me. I was a little puzzled, as I very rarely trouble a doctor unless I absolutely have to - especially during lockdown. But I obediently rang back and (after listening to all the messages about not ringing them - but ring 999 if it is an emergency!) I got through to a real person. She was very nice and asked me to make an appointment to see my doctor, as my blood pressure was high. Now I was still more puzzled, because I hadn’t had my blood pressure taken for at least four years! But I did have that conversation and she persuaded me that I really ought to wear a monitor and take my own blood pressure for a week, record it, and then go and deliver the chart I had made. I did that, but was late for the blood test I was expecting at the same time so had to re- book (there had been a huge traffic build-up in Stourport because of roadworks and a burst water main, and I had forgotten all about the fact that the roads which I haven’t seen for months are now again full of vehicles!) But back to that “silver lining”: I’ve been having grocery deliveries for over a year now. To begin with it was almost impossible to book a slot, until I realised that between midnight and about 3 a.m. was when “slots” did occasionally – very occasionally – pop up as “available”. But I worked out a system, and (by spending many hours half-watching my computer screen during the night!) managed to book a delivery about every three weeks. [Then, of course, it became a matter of eating up all that food before it exceeded its “use by” date by too much to pass my own safety criteria. But that’s another story.] Anyway, the silver lining revealed itself when, yesterday, I went to book a convenient slot and saw a message pop up saying “you have priority slot access”. O.K. That’s great. But why?, all of a sudden? I’ve thought of the time I spent, during ‘Lockdown 1’, trying to get hold of somebody who could tell me why, when I am 84 and live alone, without family close by, I couldn’t get access. So, why am I suddenly being given access, without even asking? 37
All I can think of is that little white pill that I am taking religiously every morning. And that somebody’s computer, somewhere, must have been communicating with somebody else’s computer, somewhere else – exchanging data. I’m very grateful. I’m grateful for those four worry-free years which I have enjoyed while the ‘silent killer’, as I know it has been called, hasn’t troubled me. Long may that continue, please! I have also been reading, recently, about a newly recognised condition that is really going to help scientific research. It is called “brain fog” and I am definitely suffering from it! Apparently it explains why I so often get up and go into another room and simply cannot explain why I am there! I’m glad to know that it now has a name, as I spend much of my time in that state. I know exactly where a particular article used to be before I moved house – but where it is now is an entirely different matter. I know it is here, and that I have seen it at some point – but have no idea where, nor even what it is that I am searching for. This happened over the weekend and after I had watched what I found to be an extremely interesting, hopeful and moving interlude – watching so much coverage of the life of the Duke of Edinburgh and then the solemn ritual of his funeral on that glorious sunny day at Windsor Castle. Even with all the Covid restrictions applying, the British do do these things supremely well, I feel. And what a day they had for it. The memory which was deeply stirred for me was of the day the Queen and Prince Philip came to visit the family business in which my father was joint Managing Director, with one of the Somers family, of Walter Somers Limited, manufacturer of marine goods and drop forgings, on Muckkow’s Hill, Halesowen. I can just about remember the visit, and the excitement it engendered. I remember standing with my mother in what I think was a corridor as the Royal party walked slowly past. I also think I remember being conscious of what the Queen represented and, surely I really do remember the Duke of Edinburgh striding along, with his hands clasped behind his back, and stopping to talk to some of the ”men”. Of course it could be false memory, because one has seen so many photographs over the years, but somewhere upstairs I have a copy of the commemorative booklet produced for that special day. So, goodbye to “brain fog”, as I go to trawl through boxes to find it. He will be missed. Bystander 38
Focus on Local Business Hartlebury Shop and Post Office Do you call it The Shop or The Post Office? It is of course both as it is two separate but well connected businesses. If you want to catch up with someone and do not know where they live you would eventually find them at the shop - everyone goes there. Seldom will you visit and not meet someone you know. The place has a buzz and Jag and Wendy have created a warm and welcoming atmosphere whilst running two very efficient operations The previous owners Gordon and Margaret Henderson were well respected and liked by villagers so when they retired there was natural curiosity in who would take over. Any questions quickly disappeared as Jag and Wendy swung into action and made the businesses very much their own. Since they took over the shop has come on in leaps and bounds and the post office is busier than ever. Latest plans regular customers will be pleased to hear is to install a coffee making machine to complement their fine lunchtime selection. I asked them to tell us about themselves so I hope you enjoy their story. 39
Hi Everyone We are Jag and Wendy. We are the owners of the Hartlebury Stores and Post Office on the Old Worcester Road at the top of Inn Lane. Jag predominantly runs the shop and Wendy runs the post office with the help of Jane and Tina We were on the look out for a local convenience store when we saw a local shop and post office advertised in Hartlebury Village. The business was already a success, however, the business owner wanted to retire. We viewed and were in no doubt that this is what we wanted to do. the village was a beautiful place. So we took the plunge and replaced Gordon in 2016. We had previously worked in the clothing industry, so even though in retail, this was very different, especially for Wendy running the post office It is really hard work and long hours, however, extremely rewarding meeting all of our lovely loyal customers. It is like a social circle rather than a job. The pandemic has been really tough on everyone. We tried our best to keep our shelves stacked with Jag going to the cash and carry most days. We are hoping we succeeded and helped our customers with them being able to get their essentials from us rather than having to venture out to supermarkets. We even managed to stock a supply of toilet rolls!! We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our customers for their support since we have taken over and especially throughout the pandemic. We look forward to continuing to serve you all Thank You Jag & Wendy Focus on Local Business If you would like to suggest a business to feature contact me, John Hellens, on 01299 251657 or email me at [email protected] 40
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Family Favourite Recipes Bessie’s Missing Buns As with all mum’s mine, Bessie by name, was a brilliant cook. She baked a number of family favourites amongst which were her rock cakes. All through my youth each week there would be delicious rock cakes and even when I had my own home and family they kept coming. Time passed and my mother succumbed to lung cancer despite being fit and active other than this. My sisters’ task was to clear the house which they did. Mum’s recipe book did not surface. Neither sisters has learnt to bake rock cakes, they did not need to, so an era ended. That was until many years later we went to visit a French friend who had stayed with us when studying English. Sylvie had by then a family of her own and had become an accomplished cook. One day, after dinner she told me she had something special for me - rock cakes. Not just any rock cakes but these were my mum’s rock cakes as if she were next door in the kitchen. When they were in plentiful supply they were always appreciated but to be reunited with them so unexpectedly was a wonderful shock. When living with us Sylvie had spent a lot of time with Bessie and apparently so took to her rock cakes that she wrote down the recipe and adopted it for her family. She gave me a photo of her recipe book (in French) and when I came home I tried it out, and it worked! John Hellens 1/2 lb plain flour 4 oz. stork margarine (not butter!) 3 oz. demerara sugar 1 oz. golden caster sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla essence 1 egg 1.5 oz. sultanas 1 oz. raisins 1 teaspoon baking powder Pinch of salt Mix by hand flour, margarine, sugar, baking powder, salt until crumbly Whisk egg and vanilla Put mixtures together with the sultanas and raisins and mix thoroughly Form into “golf” balls and place on backing tray Bake in oven for 20 min at 180C (fan) 42
Hartlebury Common Local Group What to look out for in Spring on The Common by Jason Kernohan With Spring upon us, Hartlebury Common is a great place to look for (and listen to) wildlife. I say listen as, from mid-April onwards, the Common becomes alive with birdsong ranging from the warbling tones of Chiffchaffs and Willow Warblers to the iconic sound of the Yellowhammer. The latter, as its name suggests, is bright yellow in colour and sings with a series of notes that many books and birdwatchers will describe as sounding like “a little bit of bread and no cheese” with the cheese representing the drawn-out wheezy note at the end of its song. I’m not sure it quite sounds like this but it is a great way to remember the call. Also arriving back to the Common in Spring are some of its less common inhabitants such as the Cuckoo and the Spotted Flycatcher. Spotted Flycatcher (Image by J. Kernohan) Spotted Flycatchers breed on Hartlebury Common most years and, if you are lucky, you may see them flicking in and out of the branches of the mature Oak trees, “fly-catching”, in the wooded area in the south east corner of the site. 43
A visit to Hartlebury Common in Spring is a great time to connect with some of its heathland speciality species: such as the beautiful Green Hairstreak butterflies and the day-flying Emperor Moth. Another specialist of this habitat is the Green Tiger beetle. These iridescent green beetles are voracious predators and can be observed running quickly over the sandy ground chasing down their prey: such as spiders and ants. Spring also sees the Common’s resident reptiles come out of hibernation and start basking in quiet, sheltered south-facing aspects. Hartlebury Common is home to three species of reptile: the Grass Snake, the Slow Worm and the Common Lizard. All of these species can be fairly shy and in the case of the Common Lizard more often heard, as they scurry for cover, than seen! As of this year, Worcestershire County Council and Hartlebury Common Local Group are undertaking a survey of the site’s reptile populations and have provided new habitats to aid them. Contrary to popular belief, our country’s only venomous snake, the Adder, does not occur on Hartlebury Common. But with a keen eye and a bit of luck, you might spot one of the other three species mentioned! Common Lizard (Image by J. Kernohan) 44
A Volunteer’s Perspective by Fran Davies I discovered Hartlebury Common in 2009 when my family and work responsibilities changed - at which time I decided to look for some outdoor voluntary work. As well as the interesting variety of physical tasks that we do, I have enjoyed the social aspect of meeting like-minded people from all walks of life: those who enjoy the outdoors and who may just like to give something back, if they have the opportunity to do so. As volunteers, we can work at our own pace, in a group or independently, and it is always a pleasure to be at a beautiful location, with so much to see all the year round. Tackling the thick scrub My introductory task in early December 2009 was to remove an area of fast- spreading Silver Birch; this has since become a recurring theme. For example, this year (2021), the work has been focused on pulling out these saplings from around the ancient Bog opposite Cook’s Nursery. We were delighted to see that the water level has increased but it does make our work a little more challenging! The ideal tool for the job is a tree sapling “popper” which uses leverage to extract all, including the roots. First, though, swinging a mini mattock to prepare the ground for the popper, always helps to keep us warm in the colder temperatures! (To be continued next month) Sapling removal (Image by F. Davies) Both of Jason’s and Fran’s articles show how just how much there is to do for nature lovers and those concerned about our countryside on our local nature reserve. In future issues, Fran will continue to describe jobs that Hartlebury Common volunteers from our group have done for more than 10 years. Jason is an experienced nature recorder and diarist. A look at our website and 45
Facebook page will show you many of his high quality photographs and might lead you to his own diary or blog sites where he has recorded local wildlife. Under current lockdown rules, voluntary work is permissible - but only if distancing rules and other personal protection procedures are strictly observed. If you would like to volunteer, please email Mike Lomax [email protected] for details of the time and place. Voluntary work will take place in the mornings: in May, on Sunday 2nd, Thursdays 13th and 27th; and in June, on Sunday 6th, Thursdays 10th and 24th. “Zoom” talks over the internet will continue instead of our indoor meetings. Our last talk was on “An Introduction to British Bats” by Matthew Terry of Worcestershire Bat Group. Matthew explained the seasonal cycles of the bat’s lives, described their special methods of navigating and catching their prey and gave examples of bat species that could be found locally: especially around the River Severn and over Hartlebury Common. He has offered to conduct a “Bat Walk” especially for our members where he would demonstrate the equipment used to detect the, normally, inaudible “sounds” made by different bat species – please watch out for future news of this. During week commencing 9th May we are expecting to have a talk on Local Nature Reserves and week commencing 23rd May a talk about the Reptiles to be found on Hartlebury Common. Please look on our Facebook page or website (www.hartleburycommon.org.uk) for confirmation of the event details and how to book a place. Michael Howard 46
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Hartlebury WI On Friday 19 March 2021, the NFWI called on all WI members to show their support and solidarity with all women who have experienced abuse and harassment. The invitation was for all WI members to safely join the ‘WI Walk with Women’, in accordance with the social- distancing rules in force at the time. Together with members of individual households, in support bubbles or with a fellow WI members within the local area, WI members were asked to “walk down the street” using candles, lanterns or a phone’s flashlight, to show support. Violence against women is endemic in the UK and across the world. Recent tragic events must be the beginning of the conversation about women’s safety and the right to live in a world free from the fear of violence, harassment, and abuse. We have seen women courageously share their harrowing stories of abuse, harassment, and countless microaggressions. It is wrong that women are told to protect themselves from the threat of violence from a young age, as well as the ‘invisible safety work’ women do in their daily lives. Tackling violence against women has been a longstanding concern for the WI, and whilst work has already started though national WI campaigns “Not in My Name” and “No More Violence” it is acknowledged that more needs to be done to eradicate all forms of violence, harassment, and abuse against women. Today and every day, the WI stands in solidarity with all women. Lorraine Purcell 48
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Happy News... the community cafe will re-start on 18th May at 10 a.m. After a long absence the team of cafe volunteers is getting prepared to start the Tuesday morning cafe again. We will return to serving you home-made cakes, bacon sandwiches and good coffee. We can accommodate 30 folk at a time for the first month, and hope very much to have more after June 21st. In due course the patio should be repaired and available for outside seating during that lovely sunny summer weather we’re going to get! Do put the date in your diaries. Don’t forget to save us your used stamps for our two charities - Hedgehog Help and Dogs for the Deaf. As ever, any profits from cafe will be given to a charity in need. Parish Hall Notice As current restrictions recede we welcome the booking of parties and community events. We have two wedding bookings during the summer. We are hoping to start up a 500 club...more details to follow. Our regular bookings - yoga classes, WI, History Society and Garden club, and more - will gradually be able to use the premises safely again. Also, don’t forget the hall will be your polling station on May 6th for the local elections. See you soon! Cath Holden 50
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