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 St Blaise Appeal Our Parish Church central heating system is beyond repair, around £ 40,000 is required for the complete replace- ment. St Blaise is our essential community facility used by many parishioners for their social and recreative activities as well as worship, please donate whatever you can afford. Please contact Churchwarden Martin Woodgett on: 01235 834053 |
Visit the Farm Store:
May 2009
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  Welcome to May’s issue of Milton Matters. We have a big issue this month with articles ranging from activities around Easter celebrations to updates onthe Incinerator proposal! The annual Parish Council meeting took place recently and was very well attended with representation from not only the Parish Councillors, but also all of the various community groups, including MICE, DAMASCUS, Milton Bowling Club and our PCSO. I must admit I never realised quite how much goes on in the Parish!  On our cover page we have some pictures of the Parish children attending the Good Friday fun day held at the Methodist Hall. As you can see we had a great turnout and everyone who came had a thoroughly good time - well done to the organisers for getting the Easter break off to such a wonderful start! John Simmonds- Editor DIDCOT ROTARY CLUB The search is still on for Professional and Business Men and Women in the Didcot Area who are willing to give time to serve the community. Following the Rotary Open Evening in February a number of men and women have express interest in joining local clubs, now the hunt is on for more people to join Didcot Rotary Club. Rotarian Brian Key said “We are looking for people who want to `make a difference` by giving service to the community”. He added “Rotary offers fun and friendship, social events, and the opportunity to work together for the improvement of life for many, and all we ask is you give as little or a much time as you can spare” If you are interested we have the following speakers in May:- Thursday 7th May – Dr Jim McWhirter (Doctor Bank) Work in Uganda Thursday 14th May – Dr Philip Ambler – Update in Eyesight Aid in Burma Thursday 28th May – Liz Danowski – OXPIP We meet at 12:45pm for 1pm Steventon House Hotel for lunch and finish at 2pm. Please ring Brian Key, 01865 820702 or E-Mail bwkl69@tiscali.co.uk  Milton Pets I often see people walking their dogs around Milton and recently saw a magnificent English Mastiff, Murray, taking her owner, Denma for a walk. Do send me photos of your pets in the village and we’ll include them. |
MILTON HILL BOWLS CLUB OPEN DAY
SATURDAY 30th MAY 2009
SATURDAY 30th MAY 2009
The Bowls green will be open to the public from 2pm in order that anyone can come along and try their hand at bowling.The only thing we ask is that you should wear flat soled shoes, preferably without tread or heals, but if you can not meet this requirement do not worry as we can supply overshoes. There will be no charge and bowls will be provided.
Bowls can be fun, friendly or competitive, it is just whatever you want it to be so why not give it a try! The Green is behind the Football Club in Potash Lane.
We hope to see you on Saturday 30th.If you require any further information or if you can not make it on the 30th and would prefer a different day please do not hesitate to give me a ring.
Mike Whiting Tel. No. 01235 831306
I’ve included a couple of photos of the bowling club and I must admit the facilities look fabulous - definitely worth getting yourself along to take a look for yourselves! Ed.
The History of Milton - Part 2.
Forty years on and Milton is now connected with a national crisis. In November 1688 William of Orange landed in Brixham and started to march to London.
He arrived in Newbury on the evening of 10 December and was accorded an enthusiastic welcome. The next morning the Prince, with the whole of his army numbering about twenty thousand men, marched from Stow over Snelsmore and along the Wantage road in Catmore, through the villages of Farnborough and West ilsley, along the Golden Mile to East Hendred, despoiling the ancient Chapel of the Eyston family on the way, and that night the Prince slept at Milton House. The troops advanced to Abingdon and quartered there.
Three hours after his arrival at Milton a courier was announced bringing the startling news that the King, James II, had fled to France. That night the news was confirmed with particulars, and on the morning of 12 December the Prince left Milton, marching into Wallingford with his troops and on to London.
Milton House has been honoured by another royal visitor, Peter the Great, Czar of Russia, came to England at the invitation of William of Orange and spent three months in 1697-8 gathering a mass of information, particularly concerning our navy and dockyards.
While in England he went to Oxford to receive the Honorary Degree of DCL, and we imagine that he chose that time to visit Admiral Benbow who was then living in Milton. It used to be said that a piece of plate was given to the Church in commemoration of the Czar’s visit.
The famous Admiral had two daughters, one of whom married Paul Calton of Milton House. His sword is still in the possession of L A Barrett esq, and his portrait hung for many years in the Inn. The Admiral Benbow was mortally wounded in action against the French fleet, and died at Port Royal, Jamaica, in 1702.
(continuing where we left off in 1644)
Forty years on and Milton is now connected with a national crisis. In November 1688 William of Orange landed in Brixham and started to march to London.
He arrived in Newbury on the evening of 10 December and was accorded an enthusiastic welcome. The next morning the Prince, with the whole of his army numbering about twenty thousand men, marched from Stow over Snelsmore and along the Wantage road in Catmore, through the villages of Farnborough and West ilsley, along the Golden Mile to East Hendred, despoiling the ancient Chapel of the Eyston family on the way, and that night the Prince slept at Milton House. The troops advanced to Abingdon and quartered there.
Three hours after his arrival at Milton a courier was announced bringing the startling news that the King, James II, had fled to France. That night the news was confirmed with particulars, and on the morning of 12 December the Prince left Milton, marching into Wallingford with his troops and on to London.Milton House has been honoured by another royal visitor, Peter the Great, Czar of Russia, came to England at the invitation of William of Orange and spent three months in 1697-8 gathering a mass of information, particularly concerning our navy and dockyards.
While in England he went to Oxford to receive the Honorary Degree of DCL, and we imagine that he chose that time to visit Admiral Benbow who was then living in Milton. It used to be said that a piece of plate was given to the Church in commemoration of the Czar’s visit.
The famous Admiral had two daughters, one of whom married Paul Calton of Milton House. His sword is still in the possession of L A Barrett esq, and his portrait hung for many years in the Inn. The Admiral Benbow was mortally wounded in action against the French fleet, and died at Port Royal, Jamaica, in 1702.
More about Admiral Benbow and his descendants around the world:
http://bravebenbow.tripod.com/index.html
http://www.benbowfamily.com/
http://www.geocities.com/lindabenbowlindabenbow/BenbowGenealogy2.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Benbow
SeeSaw Summer Fair
St Blaise Church of England Primary School:Tuesday 12th May 2008 sees the “Last of the Summer Fairs” taking place at Steventon Village Hall from 10.00 – 3.30 pm.
After six years, the Organising Committee is passing over the fundraising to a new team, and this will be the last event in this format.
“All profits from the fair go to SeeSaw, the Oxfordshire based charity which provides grief support for the young in Oxfordshire; since the first Fair, over £25,000 has been raised for SeeSaw's work” says Mary Thompson, Chair of the Organising Committee.
“On behalf of the committee I would like to extend our thanks to everyone who has supported us over the years, which has made such a vital difference to the lives of many young children in Oxfordshire and we do hope you will join us to celebrate our successes and help to contribute to the work of the dedicated team at SeeSaw.”
Over 33 stalls from food, wonderful unique items for the home and garden, clothing, as well as children's toys, games, puzzles, books and gifts will be on show.
Light refreshments will be available.
CONTACT:
Suzanne Crafer tel: 01865 391193,
mob.0780 11 66 234
http://www.seesawsummerfair.org.uk
SeeSaw is a registered charity, based at Bush House, 2 Merewood Avenue, Headington, Oxford OX3 8EF.
Children suffer when someone they love dies. Most experience a period of emotional turmoil after bereavement and for about one third of children these difficulties are severe.
Supporting a bereaved child can seem like a daunting challenge and adults are often overwhelmed by their own feelings of grief.
Through practical support and understanding, SeeSaw strives to reduce the distress of bereaved children and enable families to work together through the difficult times that follow the death of a loved one.
After six years, the Organising Committee is passing over the fundraising to a new team, and this will be the last event in this format.
“All profits from the fair go to SeeSaw, the Oxfordshire based charity which provides grief support for the young in Oxfordshire; since the first Fair, over £25,000 has been raised for SeeSaw's work” says Mary Thompson, Chair of the Organising Committee.
“On behalf of the committee I would like to extend our thanks to everyone who has supported us over the years, which has made such a vital difference to the lives of many young children in Oxfordshire and we do hope you will join us to celebrate our successes and help to contribute to the work of the dedicated team at SeeSaw.”
Over 33 stalls from food, wonderful unique items for the home and garden, clothing, as well as children's toys, games, puzzles, books and gifts will be on show.
Light refreshments will be available.
CONTACT:
Suzanne Crafer tel: 01865 391193,
mob.0780 11 66 234
http://www.seesawsummerfair.org.uk
SeeSaw is a registered charity, based at Bush House, 2 Merewood Avenue, Headington, Oxford OX3 8EF.
Children suffer when someone they love dies. Most experience a period of emotional turmoil after bereavement and for about one third of children these difficulties are severe.
Supporting a bereaved child can seem like a daunting challenge and adults are often overwhelmed by their own feelings of grief.
Through practical support and understanding, SeeSaw strives to reduce the distress of bereaved children and enable families to work together through the difficult times that follow the death of a loved one.
Achieving excellence together
The children in Maple Class have been learning the very necessary skills of letter writing. They were not at all happy about the lack of policing in the vicinity of Hundred Acre wood. After reading Georgia's letter I would have to say I agree with them!!
Council
Hundred Acre Wood
Tree Meadow
Dear Sir or Madam
I am writing to complain about the lack of security in the area and I am alarmed about the number of break ins.
It was only last night when three little pigs came knocking at my door telling me that a wolf had blown down their houses and they needed somewhere to stay. But every-one knows a wolf's favourite snack is pork chops.
However that is not as bad as what happened a week ago. A little girl was caught red handed sleeping in my bed. On March the second I think it was, I was don't know her name, but she was in her early teens, she had long golden hair and she was wearing a golden dress. As I saw her running off she headed off in the direction of Thiefshire Road. She dropped a small piece of paper which had the words G. Locks on it.
Furthermore there is one more incident that has happened. A wolf by the name of Pigs-Are-Yummy broke out of your prison and held an occupant captive for 24 hours. Just hours ago a woodcutter broke down the occupant's house and took the wolf into the forest.
I am incensed and I think that the local constabulary should patrol the area at least 8 hours a week.
Yours sincerely
G. T. Bear
Red Dragon Pre-School is a small and friendly independent setting for children aged 2½-4 years.Established for over 15 years, Red Dragon is an integral part of St Blaise Church of England Primary School Milton, and benefits from access to many of the school's facilities and outside play areas.
The small class sizes and high staff to child ratios enable 'children to feel secure and settle quickly' (OFSTED 2006). A small setting ensures your child will have the opportunity to develop close friendships within their peer group and enables our team to ensure that learning is fun and meaningful and to provide the security and confidence of a familiar, trusted and supportive carer.
Please feel free to come and see us in action – all visits are welcome.
Monday – Friday 8.40-12am term-time only
For more information call Caroline Bradbury on Tel: 01235 831368
Red Dragon PFSU – St Blaise Church of England Primary School, School Lane, Milton Heights, Abingdon OX14 4DR
Milton Heights in blossom
Milton United Football Club
Milton United football club are celebrating their centenary year this year. Whilst North Berks records show that Milton were officially accepted into the league in 1926, local records show that there was a club organised in 1909!
Milton continued the club up to and past the second world war but in the early 1950s folded.
However, they reformed in 1958 and have been in existence since. This is a remarkable achievement in considering that several other 'village' sides have folded in recent years!
The club enjoyed much success in the North Berks Football league winning al major honours and in 1981 were accepted into the higher Hellenic league. Milton moved 'away' from the original playing fields in the village in the late 1980s to their present site at Milton Heights.
Milton's success in the Hellenic League has been sporadic and unfortunately this year, have been relegated to Hellenic league Division 1 West. However, on the positive side, this will enable the club to re-look at its set up and with some hard work, will allow the club to re-develop its youth culture to ensure the club will be in existence for many years to come. Off the field, Milton have many members who enjoy the facilities at the clubhouse which allows the club to raise funds by means of a licensed bar and functions such as discos, bingo sessions etc..
The club is always looking for new members and even if you do not enjoy football come and have a drink with the many other residents of Milton and Milton Heights who use the facilities. The club's AGM is in June and if you wish to join or assist the club in any way please contact me either by e-mail or my mobile phone number 07595 747644.
I look forward to seeing you soon!
Roger Bartlett
Acting Chair
bartlett.roger@sky.com
Sutton
Milton continued the club up to and past the second world war but in the early 1950s folded.However, they reformed in 1958 and have been in existence since. This is a remarkable achievement in considering that several other 'village' sides have folded in recent years!
The club enjoyed much success in the North Berks Football league winning al major honours and in 1981 were accepted into the higher Hellenic league. Milton moved 'away' from the original playing fields in the village in the late 1980s to their present site at Milton Heights.
Milton's success in the Hellenic League has been sporadic and unfortunately this year, have been relegated to Hellenic league Division 1 West. However, on the positive side, this will enable the club to re-look at its set up and with some hard work, will allow the club to re-develop its youth culture to ensure the club will be in existence for many years to come. Off the field, Milton have many members who enjoy the facilities at the clubhouse which allows the club to raise funds by means of a licensed bar and functions such as discos, bingo sessions etc..
The club is always looking for new members and even if you do not enjoy football come and have a drink with the many other residents of Milton and Milton Heights who use the facilities. The club's AGM is in June and if you wish to join or assist the club in any way please contact me either by e-mail or my mobile phone number 07595 747644.
I look forward to seeing you soon!
Roger Bartlett
Acting Chair
bartlett.roger@sky.com
Sutton
Sutton Courtenay Womens Institute
At our March meeting 'Lady Atherton' gave an amusing account of what it was like 'supporting the war effort', and reminded us all how not only had our lives improved for the better, but also brought home the changing values of today.
At our April meeting Stephen Griffith gave a most enlightened talk on the history and raising of the Mary Rose supported by a captivating slide show.
Our next meeting will be on the 19th May 7-30 p.m. at Sutton Courtenay village hall.
At our April meeting Stephen Griffith gave a most enlightened talk on the history and raising of the Mary Rose supported by a captivating slide show.
Our next meeting will be on the 19th May 7-30 p.m. at Sutton Courtenay village hall.
Maureen Drummond-Hay
The Seasonal Gardener - May
Thank you all for your generous response to the Church Heating Fund. (It was a bit 'chilly' on Easter Sunday) A special 'thank you' to David Wright for donating a large Easter Egg to be raffled at the 'Admiral Benbow', and to Nigel and Samantha James.
The raffle raised £90 and was augmented by £21 given by Alun and Vicky - thanks - their winnings on the quiz night. The prize was won by Mark and Kate Holiday with ticket No.237.
At the Church's Annual Meeting back in March I indicated that the promoting of 'community' was at the heart of the Church's ministry. Jesus did it, the first disciples did it, when they 'held all things in common', and it forms part of Bishop John's strategy, 'Living Faith', for the Diocese. As the late Rabbi Hugo Gryn said, "It is there that men and women discover the idea of humanity."
So thank you for being part of that. We have been in consultation with the Diocesan Heating Adviser and have received several quotes already.
If money keeps 'rolling in' at this rate we should have a new system by the end of the summer!
The Reverend Colin Patching
The Seasonal Gardener - May
Ah, the sunshine! It's a beautiful thing but having just received the first burn of the season it's time to remind all you gardeners out there to apply your sunscreen before you go outside.
I didn't even think of it over the Easter weekend and whilst distracted by all those lovely young shoots poking their heads up I received a very nasty bit of sunburn. I am old enough to know better but each spring I get caught out at least once!
May is pretty much here and I'm very glad. My greenhouse is full to the brim with seedlings and plants waiting for the risk of frost to be completely gone. Putting them out too early is a gamble I'm not prepared to take, having lost many last year to the very late frosts. However it is a wonderful sight to behold. I have to admit to regularly going in to the greenhouse just to admire all those lovely seedlings waiting to become vegetables and flowers for my garden.
However, things are hotting up outside as well. The vegetable plot is starting to look productive with the beans, peas and rhubarb all doing well. My first sowings of carrots, beetroot, and radishes are all popping their heads up underneath the garden fleece.
The fruit trees and bushes are all blossoming their hearts out. And this year my children and I have sown what seems like hundreds of sunflowers for a sunflower forest in the front garden. Needless to say taking these in and out to harden them off is beginning to wear a little thin!
My flower borders are beginning to fill out again, reminding me that I should perhaps split some of the clumps before they get too large!
My magnolia tree has been the most splendid thing in my garden for some weeks now.
Having taken 3 years to get its feet down into my heavy clay it's now relishing all those nutrients and has more blooms than I can count. Quite spectacular! My aim now is to have a tree for every month of the year.
And my tree for May is my weeping crab apple which as I write is just showing signs of its full potential.
I read today that “Some days in the medieval calendar were believed to bring bad luck, and early May is recurrently dangerous”, so you have been warned! Don't put your tender plants out yet!! Happy Gardening.
Sara Southey
Southey Gardening Solutions
07773 333972
Thanks to Sue for offering to provide us with a regular article on gardening - we look forward to many tips and hits on how to make Milton beautiful this summer! Ed.
DID YOU KNOW?
MICE managed to raise over £250 for St Blaise Church - well done team!
Gary Hibbins is leaving DAMASCUS in January next year - he’s done a fantastic job running the youth group, which generally sees around 20 young people turning up to each Tuesday session. DAMASCUS urgently needs some adults to volunteer to help this hugely worthwhile local cause and we urge you to consider helping - just give the editor a call if you can or contact one of the councillors.
Our PCSO Larry Gardner is planning to run regular police surgeries - look out for details in next month’s Milton Matters.
Milton has 9 PCSOs operating on a round the clock basis in the Parish which is more comprehensive cover than anywhere else in the UK!
I didn't even think of it over the Easter weekend and whilst distracted by all those lovely young shoots poking their heads up I received a very nasty bit of sunburn. I am old enough to know better but each spring I get caught out at least once!
May is pretty much here and I'm very glad. My greenhouse is full to the brim with seedlings and plants waiting for the risk of frost to be completely gone. Putting them out too early is a gamble I'm not prepared to take, having lost many last year to the very late frosts. However it is a wonderful sight to behold. I have to admit to regularly going in to the greenhouse just to admire all those lovely seedlings waiting to become vegetables and flowers for my garden.However, things are hotting up outside as well. The vegetable plot is starting to look productive with the beans, peas and rhubarb all doing well. My first sowings of carrots, beetroot, and radishes are all popping their heads up underneath the garden fleece.
The fruit trees and bushes are all blossoming their hearts out. And this year my children and I have sown what seems like hundreds of sunflowers for a sunflower forest in the front garden. Needless to say taking these in and out to harden them off is beginning to wear a little thin!
My flower borders are beginning to fill out again, reminding me that I should perhaps split some of the clumps before they get too large!
My magnolia tree has been the most splendid thing in my garden for some weeks now.
Having taken 3 years to get its feet down into my heavy clay it's now relishing all those nutrients and has more blooms than I can count. Quite spectacular! My aim now is to have a tree for every month of the year.
And my tree for May is my weeping crab apple which as I write is just showing signs of its full potential.
I read today that “Some days in the medieval calendar were believed to bring bad luck, and early May is recurrently dangerous”, so you have been warned! Don't put your tender plants out yet!! Happy Gardening.
Sara Southey
Southey Gardening Solutions
07773 333972
Thanks to Sue for offering to provide us with a regular article on gardening - we look forward to many tips and hits on how to make Milton beautiful this summer! Ed.
DID YOU KNOW?
MICE managed to raise over £250 for St Blaise Church - well done team!
Gary Hibbins is leaving DAMASCUS in January next year - he’s done a fantastic job running the youth group, which generally sees around 20 young people turning up to each Tuesday session. DAMASCUS urgently needs some adults to volunteer to help this hugely worthwhile local cause and we urge you to consider helping - just give the editor a call if you can or contact one of the councillors.
Our PCSO Larry Gardner is planning to run regular police surgeries - look out for details in next month’s Milton Matters.
Milton has 9 PCSOs operating on a round the clock basis in the Parish which is more comprehensive cover than anywhere else in the UK!
Colin’s Update
Thank you all for your generous response to the Church Heating Fund. (It was a bit 'chilly' on Easter Sunday) A special 'thank you' to David Wright for donating a large Easter Egg to be raffled at the 'Admiral Benbow', and to Nigel and Samantha James.The raffle raised £90 and was augmented by £21 given by Alun and Vicky - thanks - their winnings on the quiz night. The prize was won by Mark and Kate Holiday with ticket No.237.
At the Church's Annual Meeting back in March I indicated that the promoting of 'community' was at the heart of the Church's ministry. Jesus did it, the first disciples did it, when they 'held all things in common', and it forms part of Bishop John's strategy, 'Living Faith', for the Diocese. As the late Rabbi Hugo Gryn said, "It is there that men and women discover the idea of humanity."
So thank you for being part of that. We have been in consultation with the Diocesan Heating Adviser and have received several quotes already.
If money keeps 'rolling in' at this rate we should have a new system by the end of the summer!
The Reverend Colin Patching
St Blaise Parish Church
www.stblaise.org.uk
www.stblaise.org.uk
Church open daily from 9-00a.m. to 4-00p.m.
Rector: The Reverend Colin Patching
The Vicarage
73 Field Gardens
Steventon (01235 831243)
Churchwarden: Martin Woodgett
41 High Street
(01235 834053)
Requests for Baptism
Please see the Rector at Mums and Toddlers (second and fourth Monday of the month)
Requests for Weddings
Thursdays at Steventon Vicarage
7-30 to 8-30 p.m.
The main Sunday service is at 11-00a.m.
Services for May 2009:
May 3rd.
8-00 a.m.Holy Communion
11-00 a.m.Thought for the Day
May 10th.
11-00 a.m. Parish Eucharist
May 17th.
11-00 a.m. Morning Worship
May 24th.
11-00 a.m. Family Service
May 31st.
11-00 a.m. Festival Eucharist for Pentecost
6-00 p.m. DAMASCUS Group Service, All Saints Sutton Courtenay
Police Community Support Officer:
Larry Gardner, 861359 or 07989 497916
larry.gardner@thamesvalley.pnn.police.uk
Your Milton Councillors
Oxfordshire County Council
Colin Lamont,
2 The Old School, School Lane,
Harwell OX11 OES
colin.lamont@oxfordshire.gov.uk
Iain Brown,
Janus, Westcot Lane, Sparsholt,
Wantage OX12 9PZ
iain.brown@oxfordshire.gov.uk
Your Milton Parish Councillors
Keith Sadler, Chairman,
48 Willow Lane 821793
keithsadlr@aol.com
Simon Jennings, Vice Chair
37 The Bung, 831665
sscjennings@btinternet.vom
Nick Adderley,
67 Midwinter Ave, 820172
nadderley@rm.com
Robert Fyfe,
Milton Mill, 831270
robertfyfe@btconnect.com
Ron Liquorish,
Rosevale, Wantage Rd 833007
ronliquorish@telinco.co.uk
Imants Von Wenden,
12 Lambe Ave, 07867513645
ima@vonwenden.com
Simon Glazebrook
Millbrook House, High Street 831237
Millbrook@millbrookhouse.org.uk
Vale of White Horse District Council
Margaret Turner,
15 Tyrrells Close, Harwell, 821248
margaret.turner@whitehorsedc.gov.uk
Reg Waite
7, Hengest Gate, Harwell, OX11 0HH
Reg.waite@whitehorsedc.gov.uk
Terry Fraser,
33 Naldertown, Wantage, OX12 9EA 766003
terry.fraser@whitehorsedc.gov.uk
Mike Murray
The Post House, 7 The Causeway
Steventon. OX13 6SE
Michael.murray@whitehorsedc.gov.uk
Contributions & Advertising
This is my last report of this County Council, as there are elections on the 4th of June.
Firstly, it has been both a pleasure and a challenge to represent Milton at the County Council.
I will be standing again for office, but the final decision is always with the voters!
Milton did not benefit from the boundary changes in 2005 and is split as a village between two County Council divisions.
I have represented The Heights and along the Rowstock Road - as well as McDonalds and the Applecart!
The proposed reservoir has taken a lot of my time in the division over the last 4 years, but it needed to be done, as it is vital to get Thames Water to prove the need for a reservoir in our area against all other possible supply options.
Milton would not see any proposed reservoir from its boundaries - except at the top of Milton Hill perhaps - but the effects of a million or more visitors per year to it would be felt by Miltonians.
The A34 is up to capacity already, how would these visitors get here? By car of course!
Traffic has increased on Oxfordshire roads by over 5% in the last 4 years, and the County Council has found it a challenge to keep up with safety schemes and maintenance with these increasing traffic levels.
Perhaps a new government can provide Oxfordshire with a better financial settlement than at present, as the current 3 year road budget was cut by the government by 10% or £6.3Million! I can only hope!
The floods of July 2007, and since, have concentrated minds on the work needed to bring about flood protection for the future.
Milton has now started a much - needed flood group, along similar lines in Steventon and The Hanneys. One of the main problems of getting waterways clear, is to obtain the consents required by the Environment Agency. This can take time and be frustrating, however, I have had much experience with this already and will work to make the process easier in Milton.
Funding for flood groups is also available, and the sense of community spirit is a very welcome bonus from this work.
The Council tax is always a big outgoing for every household, so it is important that the rates are kept as low as possible. This present County Council has lowered the increase from 4.5% in 2005 to 3.75% in 2009.
This has been achieved by working more efficiently, and not by cutting services. It can be done, and it has been over the last 4 years. It only takes the will to do it!
Finally,I say a big thank you to the residents and Parish Councillors at Milton fot the last 4 years of being able to represent you at County Hall. I hope to continue the work on your behalf, but only if the voters decide it so!
Kind Regards
Iain Brown
Most car drivers could be travelling a lot further on a tank of fuel. No new car is required - just a change to smarter driving. Try these tips:
Shift up the gears earlier (between 2000 and 2500rpm). Cruising comfortably in 5th gear is the best place there is to to be.
Cut your top speed. Wind resistance increases significantly with speed. The optimum speed for fuel efficiency is 45–50mph.
Avoid unnecessary braking by anticipating the traffic ahead. Fluid motion is better than stop start.
When slowing down, stay in gear and take your foot off the accelerator as early as you possibly can.
Plan your route to avoid congestion or getting lost.
Smarter driving could save you the equal of about one month’s worth of fuel each year.
For more money saving tips, contact the Energy Saving Trust on 0800 512 012.
United Sustainable Energy Agency
Registered Office:
United Sustainable Energy Agency, National
Energy Centre, Davy Avenue, Knowlhill
Following is a short letter received from one of our younger parishoners. I include unedited and in full for everyone’s benefit. Please feel free to respond!! - Ed.
Dear adult residents,
Some of you may have noticed the increasing practice of putting out garbage sacks and recycle boxes by the roadsides days and days before the collection is due. If any of the adult residents who regularly do this are reading this could they please write to Milton Matter's and explain why they do it?
Why do you want to live in streets filled with unsightly rubbish bags? Why do you want to live in streets covered in rotting refuse from split bags? Why can't you wait until the correct day of collection? Why are you not ashamed of letting your neighbours see you dumping your filth on public roads when it is an offence to do so (it is a littering offence)? Why is it alright for you adults to dump your litter on the street but if we kids drop a crisp packet in public we are well on our way to an ASBO?
So Milton ADULTS it's YOUR rubbish, keep it out of OUR sight and off OUR streets!
P.S after the recycle truck has come you may not realise it but you are actually SUPPOSED to bring the empty recycle box indoors! not leave it out for half the week!!!
Rector: The Reverend Colin Patching
The Vicarage
73 Field Gardens
Steventon (01235 831243)
Churchwarden: Martin Woodgett
41 High Street
(01235 834053)
Requests for Baptism
Please see the Rector at Mums and Toddlers (second and fourth Monday of the month)
Requests for Weddings
Thursdays at Steventon Vicarage
7-30 to 8-30 p.m.
The main Sunday service is at 11-00a.m.
Services for May 2009:
May 3rd.
8-00 a.m.Holy Communion
11-00 a.m.Thought for the Day
May 10th.
11-00 a.m. Parish Eucharist
May 17th.
11-00 a.m. Morning Worship
May 24th.
11-00 a.m. Family Service
May 31st.
11-00 a.m. Festival Eucharist for Pentecost
6-00 p.m. DAMASCUS Group Service, All Saints Sutton Courtenay
Here to Help You:
Police Community Support Officer:
Larry Gardner, 861359 or 07989 497916
larry.gardner@thamesvalley.pnn.police.uk
Your Milton Councillors
Oxfordshire County Council
Colin Lamont,
2 The Old School, School Lane,
Harwell OX11 OES
colin.lamont@oxfordshire.gov.uk
Iain Brown,
Janus, Westcot Lane, Sparsholt,
Wantage OX12 9PZ
iain.brown@oxfordshire.gov.uk
Your Milton Parish Councillors
Keith Sadler, Chairman,
48 Willow Lane 821793
keithsadlr@aol.com
Simon Jennings, Vice Chair
37 The Bung, 831665
sscjennings@btinternet.vom
Nick Adderley,
67 Midwinter Ave, 820172
nadderley@rm.com
Robert Fyfe,
Milton Mill, 831270
robertfyfe@btconnect.com
Ron Liquorish,
Rosevale, Wantage Rd 833007
ronliquorish@telinco.co.uk
Imants Von Wenden,
12 Lambe Ave, 07867513645
ima@vonwenden.com
Simon Glazebrook
Millbrook House, High Street 831237
Millbrook@millbrookhouse.org.uk
Vale of White Horse District Council
Margaret Turner,
15 Tyrrells Close, Harwell, 821248
margaret.turner@whitehorsedc.gov.uk
Reg Waite
7, Hengest Gate, Harwell, OX11 0HH
Reg.waite@whitehorsedc.gov.uk
Terry Fraser,
33 Naldertown, Wantage, OX12 9EA 766003
terry.fraser@whitehorsedc.gov.uk
Mike Murray
The Post House, 7 The Causeway
Steventon. OX13 6SE
Michael.murray@whitehorsedc.gov.uk
Contributions & Advertising
Contributions to Milton Matters are most welcome. Please be sure to include your name, address and phone number.
Contributions can be sent to the editor by email or post, and must be received before the 20th of the month.
Submissions are welcomed by post to:-
Christmas Tree Cottage,19 School Lane, Ox14 4EH
or by email to Johnflosim@hotmail.com
To advertise in Milton Matters, please contact Martin Woodgett at:-
41 High Street Milton Ox14 4ER, tel 01235 834053 or email to martin.woodgett@btinternet.com
Contributions can be sent to the editor by email or post, and must be received before the 20th of the month.
Submissions are welcomed by post to:-
Christmas Tree Cottage,19 School Lane, Ox14 4EH
or by email to Johnflosim@hotmail.com
To advertise in Milton Matters, please contact Martin Woodgett at:-
41 High Street Milton Ox14 4ER, tel 01235 834053 or email to martin.woodgett@btinternet.com
Milton Weekly Activities
| Day/time | Activity | Where |
| Sunday 10.30am | Service | Methodist Church |
| 11.00am | Service | St. Blaise |
| Monday 10.00am (2nd and 4th week of month) | Mums and Toddlers | St Blaise |
| 9.00am | FACT Baby Group | St Blaise School |
| Tuesday 9.00- 10.30 | Toddler Time | Milton School |
| 1.30pm | Fishmonger | High Street |
| 7.00pm | DAMASCUS | Youth Group Com. Ctr |
| 7.30pm | Bell Ringing | St. Blaise |
| 7.30pm | Bingo Night | Milton United |
| Wednesday 9.30am | Greengrocer | Admiral Benbow |
| 6.00pm | Crusaders | Comm’ty Centre |
| Thursday 9.00-10.30 | Toddler Time | St Blaise School |
| 7.30pm | Fish and chip van | High Street |
| 8.00pm | Old Speckled Hen Clog Dancing | Comm’ty Centre |
| Friday 1.50pm | Art Club | Methodist Church |
| 7.00pm | All ages Games Club | Methodist Church |
County Councillor’s Report
This is my last report of this County Council, as there are elections on the 4th of June.
Firstly, it has been both a pleasure and a challenge to represent Milton at the County Council.
I will be standing again for office, but the final decision is always with the voters!
Milton did not benefit from the boundary changes in 2005 and is split as a village between two County Council divisions.
I have represented The Heights and along the Rowstock Road - as well as McDonalds and the Applecart!
The proposed reservoir has taken a lot of my time in the division over the last 4 years, but it needed to be done, as it is vital to get Thames Water to prove the need for a reservoir in our area against all other possible supply options.
Milton would not see any proposed reservoir from its boundaries - except at the top of Milton Hill perhaps - but the effects of a million or more visitors per year to it would be felt by Miltonians.
The A34 is up to capacity already, how would these visitors get here? By car of course!
Traffic has increased on Oxfordshire roads by over 5% in the last 4 years, and the County Council has found it a challenge to keep up with safety schemes and maintenance with these increasing traffic levels.
Perhaps a new government can provide Oxfordshire with a better financial settlement than at present, as the current 3 year road budget was cut by the government by 10% or £6.3Million! I can only hope!
The floods of July 2007, and since, have concentrated minds on the work needed to bring about flood protection for the future.
Milton has now started a much - needed flood group, along similar lines in Steventon and The Hanneys. One of the main problems of getting waterways clear, is to obtain the consents required by the Environment Agency. This can take time and be frustrating, however, I have had much experience with this already and will work to make the process easier in Milton.
Funding for flood groups is also available, and the sense of community spirit is a very welcome bonus from this work.
The Council tax is always a big outgoing for every household, so it is important that the rates are kept as low as possible. This present County Council has lowered the increase from 4.5% in 2005 to 3.75% in 2009.
This has been achieved by working more efficiently, and not by cutting services. It can be done, and it has been over the last 4 years. It only takes the will to do it!
Finally,I say a big thank you to the residents and Parish Councillors at Milton fot the last 4 years of being able to represent you at County Hall. I hope to continue the work on your behalf, but only if the voters decide it so!
Kind Regards
Iain Brown
ENERGY TIPS
How smart is your driving?
How smart is your driving?
Most car drivers could be travelling a lot further on a tank of fuel. No new car is required - just a change to smarter driving. Try these tips:
Shift up the gears earlier (between 2000 and 2500rpm). Cruising comfortably in 5th gear is the best place there is to to be.
Cut your top speed. Wind resistance increases significantly with speed. The optimum speed for fuel efficiency is 45–50mph.
Avoid unnecessary braking by anticipating the traffic ahead. Fluid motion is better than stop start.
When slowing down, stay in gear and take your foot off the accelerator as early as you possibly can.
Plan your route to avoid congestion or getting lost.
Smarter driving could save you the equal of about one month’s worth of fuel each year.
For more money saving tips, contact the Energy Saving Trust on 0800 512 012.
United Sustainable Energy Agency
Registered Office:
United Sustainable Energy Agency, National
Energy Centre, Davy Avenue, Knowlhill
A load of old rubbish!
Following is a short letter received from one of our younger parishoners. I include unedited and in full for everyone’s benefit. Please feel free to respond!! - Ed.
Dear adult residents,
Some of you may have noticed the increasing practice of putting out garbage sacks and recycle boxes by the roadsides days and days before the collection is due. If any of the adult residents who regularly do this are reading this could they please write to Milton Matter's and explain why they do it?
Why do you want to live in streets filled with unsightly rubbish bags? Why do you want to live in streets covered in rotting refuse from split bags? Why can't you wait until the correct day of collection? Why are you not ashamed of letting your neighbours see you dumping your filth on public roads when it is an offence to do so (it is a littering offence)? Why is it alright for you adults to dump your litter on the street but if we kids drop a crisp packet in public we are well on our way to an ASBO?
So Milton ADULTS it's YOUR rubbish, keep it out of OUR sight and off OUR streets!
P.S after the recycle truck has come you may not realise it but you are actually SUPPOSED to bring the empty recycle box indoors! not leave it out for half the week!!!
DISTRICT COUNCIL RESPONSE
“We advise that refuse should be presented by 7am on the morning of collection or late the evening before. Potentially refuse left out early for collection will attract animals and vermin and may also result in a refuse spillage being left. If you experience problems with collections or have any concerns please email: waste.team@whitehorsedc.gov.uk.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can assist further.”
Laura Hopkins
Technical Officer
Waste Management
Vale of White Horse District Council
Tel: 01235 520202 Ext 638
WASTE COLLECTION DATES
The Council have very kindly supplied the following information relating to rubbish collection.
Holiday collection dates
Waste collections over holiday periods will be altered as set out in the table below. This affects domestic rubbish, recycling boxes and brown bins.
May Day Bank Holiday collection dates 2009:
| Normal collection day | will be collected on |
| Monday 4 May | Tuesday 5 May |
| Tuesday 5 May | Wednesday 6 May |
| Wednesday 6 May | Thursday 7 May |
| Thursday 7 May | Friday 8 May |
| Friday 8 May | Saturday 9 May |
Collections will return to standard collection days on Monday 11th May 2009
| Normal collection day | will be collected on |
| Monday 25 May | Tuesday 26 May |
| Tuesday 26 May | Wednesday 27 May |
| Wednesday 27 May | Thursday 28 May |
| Thursday 28 May | Friday 29 May |
| Friday 29 May | Saturday 30 May |
A note from the environment warden.....
The first point of contact after a resident has put out their waste out early would be the waste team. The waste team would investigate the waste and write to the residents. If the problem persists, then the environment wardens would get involved.
We would examine the waste for evidence of where it has come from and either speak to the resident or write to them. If after writing to the resident has had no impact then we can issue the offender with a fixed penalty notice for £100.
Gary Marcham
Environment Warden
And finally!
I received a note today from our waste collection providers (Veolia) apologising for the spasmodic collection times and indicating they were changing the collection days from Sunday 26th April! I will issue an update next month.......ED
ALL HOLIDAY WASTE COLLECTION DATES ARE ALSO LISTED HERE
(click on the link below):
http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/rubbish_recycling_waste/Collections/Holiday_collection_dates.asp
Methodist Church
Sunday services at 10-30 a.m.
Preachers in May:
3rd. Dr. Paul Williams
10th. Rev. Martin Smithson
17th. Dr. Alan Fudge
24th. Rev. Peter Bennett - Holy Communion
31st. Mr. Andrew Lockley
Regular events:
Tuesday May 5th. Lunch Club. Lunches of two courses plus a cup of Tea or Coffee now cost £3 (we increased the price in February because food has become more expensive).
The May lunch will be followed by a talk about the on-going work in Romania and the child we support.
If you would like to join us please ring Geoff Caudle ( 531409) or Mary Hancock(848336). We are happy to cater for special diets.
Art Club is on Friday afternoons, from 2-00p.m. to 4-00.
Friday May 1st. We shall be celebrating the 5th birthday of the Art Group with an outing to Marcham. We are usually in the Methodist Hall, and would welcome new members; we have occasional sessions of instruction which are supported by the regular subscription of £1-50 a session, which also covers refreshments.
Games Club is on Friday evenings in term time, from 7-00 p.m. to 8-00.This is intended for children of Primary School age. Weather permitting, we expect to be outside in the Squire Barrett field this term.
Special events:
Sunday May 24th. in Church Street
Appleford,from 3-00 p.m. to 5-30.
Cream Teas; proceeds to Christian Aid.
Follow the scarecrow trail and support Christian Aid; enjoy a cream tea in the garden or conservatory; there will be live music and a good selection of plants for sale.
Milton Mutters
Lots of things to talk about this month!
First, we had the Annual Parish Meeting at the Methodist Hall on 8 April. This was, in most people's view including mine, an excellent meeting. It was really encouraging to hear from so many groups within the Parish. Furthermore, it was also pleasing to provide a forum which enabled groups to link together.
The meeting commenced with my annual report, which will be placed on the parish website.
Another item raised at the Annual Meeting was the potential substantial upgrading of Squire Barrett. Simon Jennings, our Vice Chairman, pointed out that there are very substantial grants made available to enhance play facilities. We would like to push an application forward - if anyone else is interested in helping to plan changes to Squire Barrett and be part of the group putting the bid together, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please contact Simon Jennings.
At the Parish Council meeting, it was decided that we should replace the bench which is next to the High Street near Millbrook House and also to have a picnic table in Squire Barrett. We heard from our district councillors about Tree Preservation Orders being placed on the trees, planted as windbreaks between orchards, following the removal of the trees along the side of the road towards Rowstock. I understand that the purpose of this is to secure a rather less drastic management of removal of trees, though we all recognise that the life of these trees is very limited.
There is a plan to upgrade aspects of the 35a bus route with OCC considering placing 'real-time' displays and also the possibility of secure cycle parking spaces. If you have any comments about where such upgrading should be placed, please would you let Lucy Dolby know.
Finally, we have just received the outcomes of the Housing Survey. I will provide a separate article about this in next month's Milton Matters. The headlines are that 25% of houses in the parish responded (very high), and the survey suggests the need for up to 12 properties. More next month!
What's cooking!
By 'The Occasional Cook’
This month's recipe is easy, versatile and tasty (goes without saying!). It is Irish and is one of my family recipes from way back. You do not even need a weighing scales!
O'Brien's Irish Soda Bread
Serves 4 if you are lucky!Ingredients
4 fistfuls of strong wholemeal bread flour
4 fistfuls of strong white bread flour
1 level teaspoon of Bicarbonate of soda
1 tub of Buttermilk (300ml approx)
Pinch of salt
Tools
Large mixing bowl
Large knife
Fork
Baking tray
Pre heat the oven to 180 degrees / Gas mark 6
How to…
Mix all the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl. Add the buttermilk and mix to make a soft dough.
Roll out on a floured surface into a plump round about half an inch thick. Place on the baking tray and prick all over with the fork.
Place in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes until risen and nicely browned.
Enjoy as part of breakfast with butter and jam or as an accompaniment to soup.
If you are having a dinner party, butter several slices and cover with smoked salmon (Irish of course!) serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and black pepper. Oh yes don't forget the sparkling white wine/Champagne to accompany this treat.... neither last long in our house!
Enjoy!
See you next month...
MICE
Miltonians In Community Events
Annual General Meeting 22nd April 2009.
A good turn out, with some very welcome new faces, made this a good meeting. We reviewed the events which we organised in 2008, and a summary of the accounts was presented. We were able to raise a cheque for £251.43 to St Blaise, and have a float of £301.43 for this year's events. A Summary of the accounts can be seen below, and a list of events planned for 2009.
Summary of 2008 Accounts.
Total Income - £552.85
Donation to St Blaise - £251.43
Balance held over for 2009 - £301.42
2009 Future Events (Thus far!)
1. Duck Race Sun 17th May @ 2.30pm. See Milton Matters for Further Information
2. Tadpole Feast (Fete) TBC - Late June / Early July Watch this space!
Anyone wishing to be kept informed of forthcoming events, please provide an email address to:- joy.browning@clara.co.uk
Milton Annual Duck RaceFun for all the family!
When?
Sunday May 17th at 2.30pm
Where?
Mill Brook at the end of Mill Lane.
Duck tickets will be 'on sale' for £1. There are 8 heats of 50 ducks and the first 3 from each heat go forward into the Grand Final.
Prizes: 1st £30.00, 2nd £20.00, 3rd £10.00.
Please buy a Duck Ticket, which will be sold door-to-door during May or phone 834869 There will be a plant stall and tea, squash & cakes in St Blaise Church following the race at about 3.30pm
UPDATE ON THE INCINERATOR PROPOSAL
The OCC Planning Committee will not now be considering the incinerator proposal until 20 July at the earliest. That is well after the local elections on 4 June.
Despite the Public Consultation having ended “Letters of Objection” can still be sent quoting WRG SUT/APF/616 60CM to the Planning Officer mary.thompson@oxfordshire.gov.uk
With the postponement, the proposal could also become an election issue. It will be important to ascertain the position of candidates on incineration, therefore, before casting our votes.
Meanwhile:
The Vale District Council and Sutton Courtenay Parish Council have both reiterated their strong opposition to the proposal, with the Vale stating that the case is not proved.
The Waste Recycling Group (WRG) seem to have left out the Climate Change Assessment in their amended application.
Although initially assured that the proposal was to deal with only with Oxfordshire's waste, the amended WRG application also seeks approval to import 25% of the waste (75,000 tonnes a year for 25 years) from Reading, Wokingham, Bracknell and West Berkshire. This is in addition to the large amount of waste currently being brought in daily from Berkshire and London to the landfill site, which has already been extended to 2021.
It is also now feared that the County Council could give planning permission to build incinerators at both Ardley and Sutton Courtenay. Once approved, subject to the granting of Environmental Permits, there seemingly will be nothing to stop the applicants from building the two incinerators. This could mean importing the waste from wherever they could get it, to meet their commercial requirement to maximise the economic benefits of their investment, without due consideration of the impact on local communities.
Concerned by the lack of public consultation and proper consideration of the alternatives, the full County Council meeting on 7 April was asked the following question.
In view of “the widespread shift in sentiment against incineration, not least in Oxfordshire with objections from 4 district council equivalents, 30 parish councils and 15,000 petitioners”; that other local authorities such as North West London and Lancashire have chosen non-incineration alternatives and in France that no new incinerators are to be built unless proof is provided that they are a last resort, would the Council commission “a detailed analysis of all the alternatives, including the comparative costs, the respective health risks and the environmental impacts, so the full Council can take an informed vote on which alternatives should be selected to meet Oxfordshire's waste disposal requirements?”
At the time of writing, the written response the County Council promised had not been received.
Environmental Permit Application (EPA). The consultation on the EPA has also finished, though the Environment Agency (EA) has committed to put its findings out to a further consultation before finalising their decision.
Callum MacKenzie
SCAI
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