Church  Eaton Archive

The Staffordshire Newsletter column, (unexpurgated and expanded version)

The first 100 Articles

No 100          1^st - 7^th October 2009
 

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH:

Everyone is welcome to attend harvest thanksgiving and family communion on Sunday at 11am with Bishop Iraj Mottehedeh and a shared harvest lunch in the Institute afterwards.

CHURCH and VILLAGE:

The October edition of the parish magazine is available now. It costs 30p a copy or £3 annually. Contact 824788 for orders and delivery details.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Aerobics with Jo Sabin is this evening at 7pm followed by youth club at 8pm. The toddlers meet on Wednesday as usual from 10am and the Church Eaton and District Dog Society has its classes at 7pm.

Last Thursday's charity coffee morning raised £246 of which half will be donated to Macmillan Cancer Support.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

The school harvest festival is tomorrow in St Editha's church at 6.30pm. Children are asked to be at the church by 6.15pm in school uniform with a small basket of foodstuff. All types of produce are welcomed and this will be distributed to pensioners in the school catchment area.
Multi-skills for years 4, 5 and 6 is after school on Tuesday from 3.30pm until 4.45pm.

ROYAL OAK

The next pub quiz is on Monday at 8pm with a jackpot of over £100 to be won.
The last quiz, compiled and presented by Alan Poulson, was won by 'Gizza Clue' comprising Les Beattie, Nick Lakin, Phil Jones, Nigel Roberts and Karen Reeves.

VILLAGE CHOIR

The choir is currently arranging its programme for the rest of the year and is anxious to attract new members now. Contact Daphne on 823958. Choir practice is every Wednesday in the church at 8pm.

PARISH COUNCIL

The next meeting is on Tuesday at 7.30pm in the school. Ken Kelsall, chairman of Stafford Borough Council Allotments, will attend to discuss allotments and the formation of allotment societies. For more information about the agenda, contact the clerk on 822723 or email diane@fellpony.me.uk

FLOWER and VILLAGE FESTIVALS 2009

Money from this year's festivals has been distributed to: St Editha's Church (£1150); Village Institute (£1250); Church Eaton School PTA (£700); Gnosall First Responders (£100); Church Eaton Cricket Club (£50); Church Eaton Tennis Club (£50); Church Eaton Toddler Group (£100); St John's Ambulance,Gnosall (£100); St Editha's Sunday School (£50); Newport Gym Club (£50); Church Eaton Youth Club (£300); Stafford Sea Cadets (£50) and Stafford Army Cadets (£50).

In addition, it was agreed to hold £1882 in Festival funds until quotations have been received for the restoration of the clock in St Editha's church.

KING STREET WIND FARM

The planning application for a wind farm between Blymhill and Brineton is due this month. Church Eaton residents are asked to send letters of objection to, or approval of, the proposal to South Staffordshire District Council Planning Committee, Codsall, South Staffs, WV8 1PX, and/or to the developers, Wind Prospect, 7 Berley Square, Bristol BS8 1HG (fao:Paul Grimshaw), and/or to the Bradford Estate, Weston Park Enterprises Ltd, Weston-under-Lizard, Nr Shifnal, Shropshire, TF11 8LE.

VILLAGE WEBSITE

For more news and access to the village blog there is the website at www.churcheaton.org.uk

CHURCH EATON NEWS

Free publicity for events and activities in the village is available in the Staffordshire Newsletter by contacting Justin on 824788 or emailing jod7117@aol.com

No 99   24^th – 30^th September 2009

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday at 10am there is Family Communion with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby and Sunday School for the children in the Institute led by Julie Howarth and Maureen Egerton.
At the recent renewal of their marriage vows, Ralph and Julie Howarth asked for voluntary donations to charity instead of personal gifts and thereby raised £130 for Gnosall First Responders and £105 for the St Editha Clock Restoration Fund.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

There is a Charity Coffee Morning today from 10.30am until 12.30pm which will raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support and the Institute itself. Aerobics is at 7pm followed by youth club at 8pm. An informal evening of Short Mat Bowls is tomorrow at 7.30pm with an entrance fee of £1 per person. Accompanied children are welcome and you can bring your own drinks. The toddlers' group meets on Wednesday from 10am until 12 noon as does the Church Eaton and District Dog Society at 7pm.

To hire the hall contact Carol on 823067.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

Swimming lessons at Gnosall begin today for class 3. The multi-skills club for years 4, 5 and 6 continues on Tuesday after school from 3.30pm until 4.45pm. There is a breakfast club from 7.45am and an after-school club until 5.30pm run by the school and subsidised by the community learning partnership and the foundation governors. The grants for this care are dependent on the clubs being used. Contact the school for more details on 823089.

VILLAGE CHOIR

The choir meets in the church every Wednesday at 8pm.

KING STREET WIND FARM

The next edition of STAG TIMES, the newsletter of the stop turbine action group, will be distributed this week. Copies and more information are available from editor Nick Lakin at nicklakin@hotmail.co.uk

MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the post box tomorrow from 2.55pm until 4.20pm.

 No 98 17^th – 23^rd September 2009

 ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is Holy Communion at 8am with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Aerobics is this evening at 7pm followed by youth club at 8pm. The toddlers meet at 10am until 12 noon on Wednesday and the Church Eaton and District Dog Society is later at 7pm.

There is another Charity Coffee Morning next Thursday 24^th September from 10.30am until 12.30pm. Proceeds to Macmillan Cancer Support and replacing a window frame in the Stute. Donations of cakes and raffle prizes will be gratefully received. Contact Irene on 822882 or Trish on 823068.

To hire the hall contact Carol on 823067.

ROYAL OAK

There is another pub quiz on Monday at 8pm. The last quiz, presented by Nick Lakin, was won by ‘Wishful Thinkers’ comprising Carol and John Edwards and Lesley and Neil Beaton.

VILLAGE CHOIR

The choir meets in the church on Wednesday at 8pm.

2009 FESTIVAL COMMITTEE

There is a meeting of the village festival committee on Wednesday in The Royal Oak at 8pm to review this year’s event. You can send your views and comments via the festival blog or attend the meeting in person.

TEA and CHAT

After its summer break, the tea and chat group resumes on Monday at Mrs Cooper's in Apeton.

YOUTH STUDY GROUP

Young people in the village are welcome to attend a meeting this evening at 7pm in 5 Ashley Croft to discuss ideas for the next few months. For more details contact Daphne on 823958.

VILLAGE WEBSITE

For more news and access to the village blog there is the website at www.churcheaton.org.uk

No 97              10^th – 16^th September 2009

 ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is family communion at 10.15am with the Rev Michael Metcalf. After the summer recess, Sunday school resumes at 10am in the Institute. The rector, Peter Ashby, would like to thank all those who made it possible for him to have time off recently, especially the church wardens who had to take most of the responsibility.

RIDE and STRIDE

St Editha's church is looking for walkers and cyclists to raise money for the church. Along with the other churches in the benefice: St Mary and All Saints in Bradley; St Matthews in Derrington and St Giles in Haughton, we are taking part on Saturday in the 27th year of a sponsored ride and stride in aid of the Staffordshire Historic Churches Trust. Half the money raised by individual churches goes to SHCT and half is returned to each participating church. Sponsor forms are available from Jacqui Hodgkinson on 822217.
 
CHURCH and VILLAGE

The deadline for contributions to the October edition of the parish magazine is Monday. The editor is David Beech on 780678.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Aerobics is this evening at 7pm. Youth club has started again and is at 8pm. This term there will be sports and team games, parachute activities, artist demonstrations, ice skating and a curry evening. For more details about joining the youth club contact Corinne on 824415, Karen on 823977 or Simon on 824608. The toddlers' group meets on Wednesday at 10am and the Church Eaton and District Dog Society has its classes at 7pm. To hire the hall contact Carol on 823067.

VILLAGE CHOIR

The choir, led by Paul Weaver, is now in session again and is always keen to welcome new singers, both men and women. Practices are in the church on Wednesdays at 8pm. Contact Daphne on 823958 or Paul on 780751.

MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the post box tomorrow from 2.55pm until 4.20pm.

STOP TURBINE ACTION GROUP

There is a Blymhill parish council meeting on Monday at 7.30pm to discuss the proposed wind farm. MP David Kidney will be in attendance. If you have time or skills you are willing to offer STAG in its opposition to the King Street wind farm, contact David Bradshaw on 07976755980 or at kingstreetstag@btinternet.com

VILLAGE WEBSITE

For more news and access to the village blog there is the website at www.churcheaton.org.uk

CHURCH EATON NEWS

Free publicity for events and activities in the village is available in the Staffordshire Newsletter by contacting Justin on 824788 or emailing jod7117@aol.com

No 96                3^rd – 9^th September 2009

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is a family service at 10am with the worship group.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Aerobics is this evening at 7pm.

On Tuesday there is a meeting of the Institute committee at 8pm in the hall.

The toddlers' group meets at 10am on Wednesday and the Church Eaton and District Dog Society at 7pm.

To hire the hall contact Carol on 823067

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

The school reopens for pupils on Tuesday.

ROYAL OAK

The next pub quiz is on Monday at 8pm with a jackpot of £95 to be won. The last quiz, compiled and presented by Ian Watkins, was won by The Freelanders comprising Rob and Carol Page and Joan Watkins.

STOP TURBINE ACTION GROUP (STAG)

The group needs a volunteer to be editor-in-chief of the Stag Times. This would be someone who has time to write, receive correspondence and organise multi-media distribution of the newsletter to ensure coverage in other publications such as local newspapers, parish magazines and flyers. Contact David Bradshaw at kingstreetstag@btinternet.com

VILLAGE WEBSITE

For more news and access to the village blog there is the website at www.churcheaton.org.uk

CHURCH EATON NEWS

Free publicity for events and activities in the village is available in the Staffordshire Newsletter by contacting Justin on 824788 or emailing jod7117@aol.com

No 95               27^th August – 2^nd September 2009

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday at 10am there is a united service at St Giles church in Haughton with Archdeacon Godfrey.

At 3pm in St Editha's, the Rev Peter Ashby will officiate at a renewal of marriage vows by Ralph and Julie Howarth.

CHURCH and VILLAGE

The September edition of the parish magazine is published this week. It is 30p or £3 annually.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Aerobics is this evening at 8pm. On Wednesday the toddlers' group meets at 10am and the Church Eaton and District Dog Society has its classes at 7pm.

To hire the hall contact Carol on 823067.

PARISH COUNCIL

There is a meeting of the parish council on Tuesday at 7.30pm in the school. Ken Kensall, Chairman of Stafford Borough Council Allotments’ Society, will attend. For more information contact the clerk on 822723 or email diane@fellpony.me.uk

MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the post box from 2.55pm to 4.20pm tomorrow.

STOP TURBINE ACTION GROUP (STAG)

There is an open meeting in the Royal Oak on Tuesday at 7pm organised by STAG to provide information and hear views both for and against the proposed development of the King's Street Wind Farm near Brineton on the Bradford Estate. The chairman of STAG is Tony Lendon on 840006; the vice chairman is Tony Skelton on 840166 and the campaign organiser is David Bradshaw on 07976755980 or at kingstreetstag@btinternet.com  The first issue of STAG NEWS is published this week.

VILLAGE WEBSITE

For more news and access to the village blog there is the website at www.churcheaton.org.uk
 

No 94: 20^th – 26^th August 2009

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH  

In a change to the advertised parish rota there is a combined service of family communion and baptism at St Editha's on Sunday at 10am with the Rev Roger Vaughan.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

There is a charity coffee morning today (Thurs) from 10am until 12 noon to raise money for Riding for the Disabled and the Institute itself. Aerobics is later today at 7 p.m.

The toddlers' group meets on Wednesday at 10 a.m.   
The Church Eaton and District Dog Society's classes are also on Wednesday at 7 p.m.

ROYAL OAK        

The next pub quiz is on Monday at 8 p.m. The last quiz, compiled and presented by Les Beattie, was won by The Flatlanders comprising Ian and Joan Watkins and Rob and Carol Page. The jackpot was not won.

FOOTBALL COACHING       

On Saturday there is free football coaching for boys and girls aged 8 to 14 in the play park at 12.30 p.m. For more information contact Clive on 824758 or Jimmy on 822864.

KING STREET WIND FARM

Comments about the proposed wind farm at Blymhill can be made by using the blog on the village website at www.churcheaton.org.uk  or writing to kingstreetstag@btinternet.com 

CHURCH EATON NEWS

Free publicity for events and activities in the village is available in the Staffordshire Newsletter by contacting Justin on 824788 or emailing jod7117@aol.com
 

No 93   13^th – 19^th August 2009

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday at 11 am there is a combined service of Family Communion and Baptism at St Giles church in Haughton with the Rev John Humphreys. This is a change to the advertised parish rota.

CHURCH and VILLAGE

Tomorrow is the deadline for contributions to the September edition of the parish magazine. The editor is David Beech on 780678.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Aerobics is this evening at 7 pm. The toddlers' group meets on Wednesday as usual from 10 am and the Church Eaton and District Dog Society resumes its classes at 7 pm after its summer break. There is a charity coffee morning on Thursday 20th August with a donation being made to Riding for the Disabled. To hire the hall contact Carol on 823067.

MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the post box tomorrow from 2.55 pm until 4.20 pm.

FOOTBALL COACHING

On Saturday 22nd August from 12.30 pm until 1.30 pm there will be a free football coaching session for boys and girls aged 8 to 14 years. This will take place using the new ball wall in the play park with qualified coaches. More details from Clive on 824758 or Jimmy on 822864.

SCARECROW QUIZ TRAIL

The joint winners were Kirsty Lees and Sarah Hodgkinson who will receive individual rosettes.

HANGING BASKETS COMPETITION

First was Roy Billington of Heathmynd; second was Charlie and Nancy Getley of 11 The Oaklands and equal third were Jane Evans of Cherry Tree Cottage and Jeremy and Sue Bach of Willow Cottage.  The winners will receive garden tokens sponsored by the parish council.

No 92:      6^th-12^th August 2009 

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is a combined service of Family Communion at St Mary and All Saints Church in Bradley. This is at 11.30 a.m. with Bishop Gordon and is a change to the advertised parish rota in the parish magazine.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Aerobics led by Jo Sabin is this evening at 7 p.m.

The toddlers' group meets every Wednesday from 10 a.m. during the school holidays and older siblings are always welcome as are new mums and dads.

Also on Wednesday the Church Eaton and District Dog Society has its classes at 7 p.m.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

The school governors have awarded the accolade of Outstanding Contribution to School Life to Rebecca Holbrook. She receives a trophy and a cheque for £50. Congratulations Rebecca.
Headteacher Mike Winkle has announced that he is now the proud grandfather of a little boy.

THE ROYAL OAK

There is another pub quiz on Monday at 8 p.m. The last quiz was compiled and presented by Karen Reeves and won by 'Gizza Clue' who are Nick Lakin, Phil Jones and Les Beattie. The jackpot was not won and rolls over.

MARQUEE CHARITY EVENT

A recent charity meal organised by Liz and Gordon Kennerley at High Onn Manor raised £3000 for Air Ambulance and the Eve Appeal. Musical entertainment was by Weezel Diesel and The Endings.

BEST KEPT VILLAGE 2009

Church Eaton was highly commended in this year’s competition.

VILLAGE WEBSITE
For more news and information and access to the village blog there is our website at www.churcheaton.org.uk

No 91:   30^th July – 5^th August 2009

 ST EDITHA’S CHURCH

On Sunday at 9.30 a.m. there is a combined service of Family Communion and Baptism at Derrington with Archdeacon Godfrey. This is a change to the published rota in the parish magazine.

 VILLAGE INSTITUTE

• Aerobics is this evening at 7 p.m.

• Older brothers and sisters are welcome to join the toddlers on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until 12 noon.

• Also on Wednesday the Church Eaton and District Dog Society meets at 7 p.m.

• To hire the hall contact Carol on 823067.

 CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

Plans are being finalised for an after school club starting in September to look after pupils until 5.30 p.m. This means that pupils who also make use of the breakfast club facilities can have wrap-around care in school from 7.45 a.m. until 5.30 p.m. each day.

 ROYAL OAK

There is a fish and chips evening on Wednesday from 6.30 p.m.

 PARISH COUNCIL

The monthly parish council meeting is on Tuesday at 7.30 p.m. in the school.

 MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the post box tomorrow from 2.55 p.m. until 4.20 p.m.

 CHURCH EATON NEWS

Free publicity in the Staffordshire Newsletter for events and activities in the village is available from Justin at jod7117@aol.com

 No 90   23^rd – 29^th July 2009

NO TO WIND TURBINES

Church Eaton residents are being asked to actively support the campaign against the installation of six wind turbines at Brineton.

To give some idea how visible a wind turbine would be, a 426 foot blimp was anchored by Bob Giles at his home in Marston last Monday. The blimp could be clearly seen from various parts of Church Eaton particularly along Wood Eaton Road and Goosemoor Lane. Residents should be aware that turbines will be located closer to the village than Marston and on higher ground. There is more information about the King’s Street wind farm proposals on our village website at www.churcheaton.org.uk

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is Family Communion at 10 a.m. with the Rev Michael Metcalfe. On Saturday at 2.30 p.m. the marriage will take place of David Buckle, son of Mr and Mrs D. Buckle of Blymhill, and Susan Kennerley, daughter of Gordon and Liz Kennerley of High Onn Manor.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Youth club is suspended for the summer and will resume on September 10. There is an Institute committee meeting this evening in 5 Oak Close at 8 p.m.

During the summer break older siblings are welcome to join their younger brothers and sisters at the toddlers' group on Wednesday mornings from 10 a.m. until 12 noon.

The Church Eaton and District Dog Society meets on Wednesday at 7 p.m.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

Headteacher Mike Winkle has been informed by Natural England that three pupils from the school won prizes at the recent Wheaton Aston Hay Festival poetry competition. The winning poems about the environment were written by Alex Barton, Laura Elsley and Maisie Lippitt.

ROYAL OAK

There is a pub quiz on Monday at 8 p.m. The last quiz, presented by Nick Lakin, was won by 'Gizza Clue' comprising Nigel Roberts, Alan Poulson and Les Beattie. They did not select the key to the jackpot, so the money rolls over.

RECREATIONAL FACILITIES

Stage 1 of the project has been completed in time for the summer holidays and the ballwall, boulders and fencing are now in place by the children's playground.

No 89    16^th – 22^nd July 2009

THE BEST YET?

The scarecrows are looking glum, the music has faded, the spent cases of the fireworks have been cleared from the Glebelands, the beautiful blooms have wilted and been removed from the church. Chris Byford is counting the money and Dawn Jones is getting her voice back! It’s all over for another year. Some say it’s been the best festival yet. There certainly was a great atmosphere in our village last weekend. Please post your views on the festival blog and give lots of feedback particularly to those who organised it all.

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is Holy Communion at 8 am

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Youth club is this evening at 8 pm. The toddlers' group meets on Wednesday from 10 am until 12 noon and will be open every Wednesday morning during the school holidays. Older siblings are welcome as are new parents. Contact Jo on 780315 or Fay on 01952 691132. Also on Wednesdays the Church Eaton and District Dog Society meets at 7 pm.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

The last performance of the school musical The Wind in the Willows is this evening at 6.30 pm. Tomorrow school reports and SATs results will be sent home and there is an informal parents’ meeting to discuss these on Monday. Also tomorrow, for their end-of-term treat, class 4 will be travelling on the Mersey ferry to visit a U boat exhibition in Birkenhead, the National Maritime Museum in Liverpool, the Liverpool Tate Gallery and New Brighton for a paddle and seaside tea.  Tuesday is the last day of term and there will be a Leavers' Service at 2.45 pm in the hall.

The school reopens on Tuesday 8th September.

FAMILY TREASURE HUNT

Charlotte Rutland aged 10 was first and Becki Jones aged 9 and Alex Rutland aged 8 were joint second.

TUG of WAR

The winners were Haywood Tow. Church Eaton Royal Oak Massives were second and Church Eaton Stumpies were third.

SCARECROW RESULTS

The B B House (11 The Oaklands) was the winner of the flower category;
The Grim Reaper (10 Malthouse Lane) won the traditional category and the anything goes category was won by Super Mario and Friends (Lissadell).

The following were highly commended: Queen Bee (Little Onn Road); Gotcha (Lockett’s Barn); I’m just sitting watching flowers in the rain (Oaklands Court); Rubbish Monster (28 The Oaklands); Flower Power (5 Oak Close) and Fred (5 Ashley Croft).

FUN DOG SHOW

The first Church Eaton Fun Dog Show was well attended and raised £158. Benefit Dog Training Group from Haughton gave a demonstration on safe handling, how to teach your dog to dance and a fun display of 'fly-ball'.

There were 5 classes in show: E C Straiton & Partners of Penkridge sponsored the best junior handler; the dog with the waggiest tail and the dog the judge would most like to take home. The prettiest bitch and handsome hound categories were sponsored by Sweet Turf Boarding Kennels. The judge was Natalie Mincher-Lockett.

TEA and CHAT GROUP

The group will meet on Monday at Mrs Cooper's house in Apeton. There is no meeting during August.

MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the post box tomorrow from 2.55 pm until 4.20 pm.

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH

Once again we have been asked by the police to be extra vigilant. Recently there has been a number of local thefts and an attempted break-in in the village. The number to call is 0300 123 4455 if you see anything suspicious.

KING'S STREET WIND FARM

Information and comments about the proposed wind farm can be sent to David Bradshaw at kingstreetstag@btinternet.com

No 88       9^th – 15^th July 2009

FESTIVE FUN & FLOWERS

Our village and flower festivals begin on Friday. There is a free preview evening to the flower festival at 7.30pm in St Editha's church with poetry and classical guitar music. The village festival starts at 6pm with a quarter peal of bells by the Eccleshall Ringers and a family treasure hunt. It ends on Sunday at 10pm with a fireworks display. The mayor of Stafford, Jean Tabernor, will visit the festivals on Sunday at 2pm.

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

The grand opening of the festival will be rung out by the Church Eaton bell ringers on Saturday at 10am. The flower festival will be officially opened at 11am by James Hawley, Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire.

Over the weekend 24 floral displays, on the theme A Lifetime in Flowers, will be on show by flower clubs from Albrighton, Newport, Pattingham, Shifnal, Stafford and Wrekin and various organizations from Church Eaton itself.

Entry is £2.50 per person with accompanied children free.

To support some of the displays, there will be arts and crafts from local artists including photography from the rector, Peter Ashby. Music in the church will include piano and organ recitals, visits by the street musicians and concerts on Saturday and Sunday at 3pm by the village choir.

The Stafford Morris Men will dance outside the church on Sunday at 2.30pm and later there is a Songs of Praise at 6.30pm.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

The family treasure hunt on Friday starts at the Institute and costs £1 per entry sheet. It is followed at 7pm by story telling in the hall. On both Saturday and Sunday, there is a cafe from 10.30am until 5.30pm.

Later on Sunday at 7.45pm, the Institute is the venue for a Village Supper when everyone brings food and beverages to share. The festival raffle and scarecrow dollies raffle will be drawn at this event.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

On Saturday from 12 noon there is a children's Fayre and fun activities on the school field, including a fancy dress competition and pony and trap rides. At 2.30pm the school brass group will give a concert. Village hypnotherapist, Sarah Jones, will be in the John Evans Room at 3pm and there is another story telling session at 4pm.

On Sunday the Newport Gym Club is giving a demonstration at 1.30pm which is followed by traction engine rides at 2pm and impromptu Rounders at 2.30pm.

THE ROYAL OAK

The pub will be open on Saturday from 11am until midnight and on Sunday from 11am until 10.30pm. Hot and cold food is available throughout the weekend and on both days there is a market on the car park from 10.30am. On Saturday at 8pm there is an open air pop concert opposite the pub by 'The Black Cats' and a BBQ on the car park from 7.30pm. The Stafford Morris Men will be outside The Royal Oak on Sunday at 12.30pm and afterwards there is live music with 'The Endings'.

THE GLEBELANDS

The tug of war is on the Glebelands on Sunday at 11am followed by a cricket match at 2pm between Church Eaton and Birmingham Libraries. The festival ends here on Sunday at 10pm with the lighting of the beacon and grand finale fireworks.

THE OLD RECTORY

Gaunt's Retinue, medieval combat and re-enactment team, will be encamped in the Old Rectory field throughout the weekend.
On the car park beside the Old Rectory there is a novelty dog show at 2pm on Saturday.
 
FESTIVAL PROCESSION

The procession through the village on Saturday at 11am will be led by the Staffordshire Army Cadet Force Corps of Drums with the Stafford and Rugeley Sea Cadets.

OPEN GARDENS

On both afternoons of the festival there will be village gardens, including the churchyard, open for view. £2 entry to all gardens.

SCARECROW TRAIL

Nearly 60 scarecrows are planned for this year. The scarecrow trail can be followed anytime during the festival and there is a quiz sheet available at various locations for those who like a challenge. Winning scarecrows will be announced at the Songs of Praise service in the church on Sunday afternoon. As usual, scarecrows should be left up for at least a week after the festival.

FESTIVAL MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

Staffordshire County Council has sponsored the street music and entertainment at this year's festivals.

CAR PARKING

Please do not park on High Street. There are free car parks beside the children's playground where the procession starts and beside the Old Rectory on the Stretton Road where the procession ends. There is disabled parking until 6pm in Oak Close opposite the Royal Oak.

PARISH COUNCIL

This month's parish council meeting is on Tuesday at 7.30pm in the school.

No 87 2^nd – 8^th July 2009

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is a Family Service at 10 a.m. with the Worship Group followed by the Sunday School's Bring and Share Picnic in the Institute garden. Everybody is welcome. Sunday school will resume again in September. Contact Julie on 823049 or Maureen on 823844 for more details.
From Wednesday onwards flower clubs from Albrighton, Newport, Pattingham, Shifnal, Stafford and Wrekin will be preparing their displays for the flower festival in the church.
Offers of festival scarecrows for the churchyard will be really welcome this year. Contact Michael Evans on 822586.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Aerobics is this evening at 7 p.m. and youth club meets at 8 p.m.. On Wednesday morning there is the toddlers' group from 10 a.m. until 12 noon and later at 7 p.m. the Church Eaton and District Dog Society has its classes. Volunteers are still needed to help with the Institute cafe at the village festival. Contact Carol on 823067.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

Brass ensemble and French club are after school today. The school brass group will be performing at the festival on the Saturday afternoon at 2.30 p.m. Football coaching with Mr Dudley continues tomorrow from 3.30 p.m. to 4.30 p.m..  The local 2009 Sports' Development Summer programme covering athletics, tennis, canoeing and football is now published on the school website at www.churcheatonschool.com

ROYAL OAK

The Royal Oak is donating a keg of beer (68 pints) or lager (60 pints) to the winning team of the Tug of War Competition on Sunday 13 July. It costs £10 for a team of 8 to enter the event and entry forms are available from the pub. Contact Josie on 823078 for further details.

VILLAGE CHOIR

On Saturday 11th July and Sunday 12th July, as part of the village festival, the choir will be giving two concerts both at 3 p.m. There will also be a piano recital by Daniel Parr of Church Farm and organ recitals by Dennis Cornes, David Latham, Tony Baggs and choirmaster Paul Weaver.

STORY TELLING

The next meeting is in Hanwell Cottage at 8.30 p.m. on Monday. There are two story telling sessions during the festival; one on Friday 10th July at 7 p.m. in the Institute and the other on Saturday 11th at 4 p.m. on the school playing field.

VILLAGE FESTIVAL 2009

In addition to the attractions announced last week there will also be a family treasure hunt, open gardens, a market on the Royal Oak car park, a cricket match, a demonstration from Newport Gym Club and traction engine rides. Medieval combat and re-enactment team, Gaunt's Retinue, is back this year for both days of the festival encamped in the Old Rectory field.  Sarah Jones, the village clinical hypnotherapist, is offering a group 'Stop Smoking' session on the Saturday of the festival. Anyone who would seriously like to stop smoking and is willing to try hypnosis, can contact her beforehand by email on www.hypnotherapyforeveryone.com

SCARECROW COMPETITION

Completed entry forms should be returned to Ron Lippitt, The Croft, Malthouse Lane by tomorrow and ideally all scarecrows should be in place by Sunday. There are the usual two categories of 'Anything Goes' and 'Traditional' and, reflecting St Editha's flower festival, the third category is a 'flower' theme. As in previous years, scarecrows should be left in place for at least a week after the festival. The scarecrow trail can be followed anytime during the festival period. Competition winners will be announced at the Songs of Praise service on Sunday 13th July at 6.30 p.m.. Contact Jacqui on 822217 after 8 p.m. for more information.

MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the post box tomorrow from 2.55 p.m. until 4.20 p.m.

GNOSALL SCOUTS & GUIDES

On Sunday at 2 p.m. there is a Car Treasure Hunt from the headquarters building to raise funds to keep the hut open for all young scouters and guiders. Quite a few young people from Church Eaton make use of the facilities there. The cost is £5 per car and there is a BBQ afterwards. The committee would also like parents, grandparents and past scouters to come along and plan future fund-raising events to keep the hut going. For more information contact Emma Bryan on 840539 or Julie Howarth on 823049 

No 86       25^th June – 1^st July 2009

A VERY PROMISING EVENING

Last Saturday's Promise Auction in the Royal Oak was a tremendous success and raised £1900 for teenage recreational facilities in the village. Goalpost campaigner Martin Smith thanked everybody who supported the event and made special mention of Josie Byford for her organisation and auctioneers Eric Rogers and Dave Hill. Once again the village pulled together and showed great resilience and its usual community spirit in raising this money so quickly when it was needed.

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

At 10 a.m. on Sunday there is Family Communion and Baptism with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby and Sunday School for the children in the Institute.

CHURCH and VILLAGE

The double edition of the parish magazine for July and August will be published and delivered this week.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Aerobics and youth club are this evening at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. respectively. On Wednesday morning there is the toddlers' group from 10 a.m. until 12 noon and later at 7 p.m. the Church Eaton and District Dog Society has its classes. As a result of the recent charity coffee morning, £57 has been donated to Gnosall First Responders. The next coffee morning is on August 20.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

On Monday class 3 is going to Beaudesert Park School on a residential trip and class 5 will be visiting King Edward VI School for a 'Making Year 6 Count Day'. On Tuesday the school, like most schools in Staffordshire, is participating in a World Record Skipping event at 12 noon. This will involve classes 2, 3 and 4 with class 3 taking part at Beaudesert. Participants should skip continuously for 3 minutes with breaks of no more than 10 seconds. Two independent witnesses will be in attendance to verify that the record attempt conforms to Guinness World Record regulations.

ROYAL OAK

There is another pub quiz on Monday at 8 p.m. with a jackpot of £60. The last quiz, presented by Mark Cockle, was won by 'Odds and Ends' comprising Karen and Granville Reeves, Dave Trigg and Tim Noble.

VILLAGE CHOIR

Rehearsals for the village festival concerts continue in the church on Wednesday at 8 p.m..

VILLAGE FESTIVAL 10th-12th July 2009

This year, in addition to the usual traditional festival attractions, there will be a family treasure hunt, a speed goal competition, a novelty dog show and a children's fancy dress competition. On Saturday evening 11th July at 8 p.m. there is an open air concert with 'The Black Cats' and on Sunday afternoon 12th July at 1.30 p.m. live music with 'The Endings'. Other street musicians throughout the festival weekend will play guitar, concertina, flute, mandolin, medieval instruments and a street organ. There will be a barber shop quartet, magicians and dancing by the Stafford Morris Men. More information about the village festival is available from Dawn Jones on 823116.

FLOWER FESTIVAL

As well as the village festival on 10th-12th July, there is a flower festival in St Editha's church with the theme 'A Lifetime in Flowers'. Over twenty floral displays, stimulated by extracts from famous poems, will be mounted around the church representing the different stages of life from youth onwards. As well as contributions from Church Eaton, flower clubs from Albrighton, Newport, Pattingham, Shifnal, Stafford and Wrekin are all taking part. Some of the displays will also have arts and craft exhibits from local artists. The flower festival will be opened by James Hawley, Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire and the entry fee is £2.50 per person, with accompanied children free. More details about the flower festival are available from Michael Evans on 822586.
 
FESTIVAL BUNTING

There is bunting available to hang outside houses in the village on free loan from Karen Reeves on 823674. Members of the youth club have offered to help anyone who may require assistance in putting up bunting for the festival.

No 85      18^th – 24^th June 2009

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is Holy Communion at 8am and a Celtic Service at 6.30pm both with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

The monthly Institute Committee meeting is this evening at 8pm in 5 Oak Close. Also this evening are aerobics at 7pm and youth club at 8pm. The toddlers group meets as usual on Wednesday morning and later the Church Eaton and District Dog Society has its classes at 7pm. Last week's charity coffee morning raised over £100. To hire the Institute contact Carol on 823067.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

Rebecca Holbrook and Tom Howarth will recite poetry off by heart at the preview to the flower festival on July 10. The school is still collecting Tesco and Sainsbury vouchers.

ROYAL OAK

The Promise Auction to help raise money for the Goalposts Campaign is on Saturday at 8pm. More promises are still needed. Contact Josie at the Royal Oak on 823078.

VILLAGE CHOIR

On Wednesday at 8pm in the church the choir will continue rehearsals for its village and flower festival concerts.

GOALPOSTS CAMPAIGN

So far there have been private donations of £350 and the football card and the ‘jar behind the bar’ at the Royal Oak have raised £150.

WIND FARM

The parish council has agreed unanimously to object to any planning application for a wind farm at Brineton and has written to this effect to the company, Wind Prospect, who are proposing the scheme. For much more detail about this issue see the village website at www.churcheaton.org.uk

VILLAGE ALLOTMENTS

There has been a request made to the parish council to help find land for allotments to grow fruit and vegetables in, or near, the village. Such a request will require at least six formal written letters being sent to the parish council expressing a need for this   facility. Villagers who are interested in the idea and willing to write letters of request for allotment land should email Nick Lakin at nicklakin@hotmail.co.uk

TUG OF WAR

As part of the village festival there will be a tug of war on Sunday 12^th July at 11am on the Glebelands sports' field. The prize for the winning team will be a keg of beer (68 pints) or lager (60 pints) donated by the Royal Oak and to be consumed there. Entry forms are available from the pub and the entry fee is £10 per team of 8. More details are available from Josie on 823078.

MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the post box tomorrow from 2.55pm until 4.20pm.

CHURCH EATON NEWS

If you want free publicity in the Staffordshire Newsletter for events and activities in the village, contact Justin O'Doherty on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com

There’s lots of festive bunting to decorate outside your house available on FREE loan from Karen Reeves on 823674.  Get yours NOW!

No 84   11^th – 17^th June 2009

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is a Family Service at 10.15 am with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby and Sunday School for the children in the Institute at 10 am.

OBITUARY

Muriel Buckler died peacefully in her sleep on June 4. She was 94 years of age. Muriel was chair of Church Eaton School Governors for many years and reporter for the village's community news in the Staffordshire Newsletter for a time. The Buckler Early Years Unit at the school remains as a memory to her and her husband John who died in 2001 and was a previous headmaster of the school. Funeral arrangements will be announced later. 

CHURCH and VILLAGE

The closing date for contributions to the July and August double edition of the parish magazine is Sunday. The editor is David Beech on 780678.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

The second Charity Coffee Morning is today from 10.30 am until 12.30 pm. The proceeds will be split between Gnosall First Responders and the Institute itself. This evening there is aerobics at 7 pm and youth club at 8 pm. On Wednesday the toddlers' group meets from 10 am until 12 noon and the Church Eaton and District Dog Training Society has its classes at 7 pm.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

Le Club Francais run by Mademoiselle Fanion for the reception class through to year 6 is after school today from 3.25 until 4.25 pm and this is followed by the brass ensemble group with Mr Stacey from 4.30 pm until 5.30 pm. Sports' Afternoon is on Tuesday from 1.30 pm with the PTA organizing the refreshments. Headmaster, Mike Winkle, would like to thank parents for contributing Tesco and Sainsbury vouchers to the school and remind everyone that they are still being collected.

ROYAL OAK

The next pub quiz is on Monday at 8 pm. The last quiz, presented by Nick Lakin, was won jointly by Gizza Clue and The Doo Badleys, but the correct key for a jackpot of £55 was not selected. The pub is still looking for more promises for the Promise Auction on June 20 to raise money for the local goalposts campaign. Contact Josie on 823078.

VILLAGE CHOIR

The choir meets in the church on Wednesdays at 8pm and is rehearsing songs from Carousel and The King and I and some modern surprises for the village festival concert in July. Contact Daphne on 823958.

FOOTBALL AWARD

Church Eaton's Charlie Silvester has received an under 8's trophy from Stafford Soccer School for being the highest scorer this season with 37 goals.

CIVIC AMENITY

The first collection of the year is from the Royal Oak car park on Saturday between 9 am and 10 am. Please do not leave items for collection but wait with them until the lorry arrives.

CHRISTIAN AID WEEK

Please return any envelopes that were not collected to Rose Atkinson at Smithy Cottage or Daphne Rutherford at Ashley Croft.

TEA and CHAT GROUP

The next meeting is on Monday at Mrs Cooper's house in Apeton.

PROGRESSIVE SCRABBLE

This year's winner of the progressive scrabble tournament is Anne Prince. The Scrabble Club has been organized for the past two years by Bob and Maggie Jeays who will now hand over the management of it to Sue and Jeremy Bach when it resumes again in September.

VILLAGE FESTIVAL 2009

There is a Festival Committee meeting in the Royal Oak at 8 pm on Wednesday. This year, as well as erecting scarecrows, villagers are asked to hang bunting outside their houses. Free bunting is available on a first-come, first-served basis from Karen Reeves on 823674.

WIND FARM

Nearly 100 people attended the last parish council meeting mainly to oppose the idea of the installation of a wind farm at Brineton. The parish council agreed unanimously to object to any planning application for such a farm and has written to this effect to the company, Wind Prospect, who are proposing the scheme.

VILLAGE ALLOTMENTS

There has been a request made to the parish council to help to find land for allotments to grow fruit and vegetables in or near the village. Such a request will require at least six formal written letters being sent to the parish council expressing a need for this facility. Villagers who are interested in the idea and willing to write letters of request for allotment land should email Nick Lakin at nicklakin@hotmail.co.uk

RECREATIONAL FACILITIES

The working party set up to look into the provision of goalposts for older children in the village has now extended its brief to investigate and establish means and methods of providing and improving recreational facilities for the benefit of all Church Eaton residents. The parish council has agreed to approach the Bradford Estate to lease or purchase a piece of land for such recreational purposes.

FLOWER ARRANGERS WORKSHOP

Liz Beard and Di Windsor are running a free workshop at 7.30 pm on Tuesday in the Institute for those in the village who are doing flower displays for the forthcoming flower festival in July. There will be practical tips and an opportunity to exchange ideas on the theme of A Lifetime in Flowers

No 83     4^th – 10^th June 2009

Promises, promises, promises.

To help raise the £1400 for the goalposts campaign (see below), there will be a Promise Auction in the Royal Oak on Saturday 20th June at 8pm. So far there are promises of a personal training session; a family magic show; hair styling; horse shoeing and an ironing service, but lots more promises are needed. They do not have to cost money - just a little time and effort. Contact Josie at the Royal Oak on 823078.

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday at 10am there is a Family Service with the worship group.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Today the Institute is being used for local and European elections and the usual aerobics lessons have been cancelled. The youth club has arranged to go skating at Cannock ice rink. The toddlers' group meets on Wednesday from 10am until 12 noon and also on Wednesday the Church Eaton and District Dog Society has its classes at 7pm. To hire the Institute contact Carol on 823067.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

The brass group and the French club meet after school today and there is football coaching tomorrow. Years 2, 3 and 4 will be taking part in a mass skip at the end of June as part of a world record skipping event.

ROYAL OAK

In addition to the Promise Auction (see above), there is a ‘jar behind the bar’ for donations and a weekly football card to raise money for the goalposts campaign.

VILLAGE CHOIR

The choir meets in the church on Wednesday at 8pm to continue its rehearsals for the village and flower festival in July.

GOALPOSTS CAMPAIGN

As a short term measure, it has been decided to cordon off the top part of the children's playground as a teenage recreation area. This will require £1400 for goal posts, fencing and benches. Various events are being arranged to raise the money from within the village in time for the summer break. For more information contact Martin Smith on 823977.

PROGRESSIVE SCRABBLE

This annual event is social rather than competitive and is on Saturday at 7pm in the Institute. Nibbles, tea and coffee are provided as well as glasses for your own drinks. Bring a scrabble set if you have one. Reigning progressive scrabble champion Jeremy Bach will be there to defend his title. Admission is £2.50 per person. Further information is available from Maggie or Bob on 822718.

CHARITY COFFEE MORNING

The second coffee morning is next Thursday 11th June from 9am until 12 noon in the Institute. This time half the proceeds will be donated to Gnosall 1st Responders. Donations of cakes and raffle prizes would be greatly appreciated.

FLOWER FESTIVAL 2009

There is a meeting in St Editha's church on Monday at 8pm for all flower arrangers who are taking part in the flower festival on 11th and 12th July.

SCARECROW COMPETITION

Entry forms and details have now been delivered to households in the village. Offers of scarecrows for the churchyard would be really welcome. Contact Jacqui on 822217 after 8pm for more information. 

MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the notice board tomorrow from 2.55pm until 4.20pm

CHURCH EATON NEWS

If you want free publicity in the Newsletter for events and activities in the village, contact Justin O'Doherty on 824788.

 No 82         28^th May – 3^rd June 2009  

 ST EDITHA'S CHURCH: There is no Sunday service at St Editha's this week as the parishes of Church Eaton, Derrington and Haughton will join with Bradley for an United Service at 10am with the Rev Lesley Bentley.

CHURCH and VILLAGE: The June edition of the parish magazine is published this week. It costs 30p monthly or £3 annually. To order a copy contact 824788.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE: Today there is aerobics at 7 pm. There is no youth club this week because of mid-term break. The toddler group, for babies through to pre-school children, is on Wednesday from 10 am until 12 noon and the Church Eaton and District Dog Training Society meets at 7 pm. Next Thursday aerobics classes are cancelled as the Institute is being used for local and European elections from 7 am until 10 pm. The youth club has arranged to go skating at Cannock Ice Rink on Thursday evening.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL: After the half-term holiday, the school re-opens on Monday. Years 5 and 6 have received a personal letter from children's author Paul Jennings, who lives in Warrnambool in Australia. This is in response to letters they wrote to him about his Rascal books.
Pupils from the school are planning to take part in a poetry recital in St Editha's church during the preview to the flower festival in July.

ROYAL OAK: There is a pub quiz on Monday at 8 pm and a Fish and Chips Evening on Wednesday from 6.30 pm onwards.

VILLAGE CHOIR: The choir meets again in the church on Wednesday at 8pm.

PARISH COUNCIL: The monthly meeting of the parish council is on Tuesday at 7.30 pm in the school. One of the items on the agenda is the proposed wind farm at Brineton (see report below). There will be a representative from Wind Prospect at the meeting. For more information contact the clerk on 822723 or email diane@fellpony.me.uk

WIND FARM PROPOSAL: Initial results of feasibility studies for a wind farm at Brineton have indicated that the site on the Bradford Estate is suitable for wind development. The parish council has been contacted so that the Church Eaton community is fully included in the public consultation process for the proposal. Although none of the proposed turbines or site infrastructure is located within the Church Eaton parish boundary, the company, Wind Prospect, would look to include the parish in trust fund arrangements due to the proximity of the wind farm to the Church Eaton parish boundary. The company provides a community trust fund to be spent on local projects and activities to offset any impact of wind farm installations.  

GOALPOSTS CAMPAIGN: Barry Stamp will chair another meeting on Wednesday at 7.30 pm in the school. At present the working party is considering a short-term solution to cordon off part of the children's playground while the long-term solution is still to secure a piece of land in, or around, the village for teenage recreation.

VILLAGE FESTIVAL 2009: There is a meeting of the festival committee in the Royal Oak on Wednesday at 8.15 pm. The committee would like to acknowledge the receipt of a community arts grant from Staffordshire County Council for music and street entertainment at the festival. People are still needed to help with the organization. Contact Dawn on 823116.

SCARECROWS: The categories for this year's scarecrow competition are: 'Traditional'; 'Flowers' and 'Anything Goes'. We need some scarecrows in the churchyard this year so if anyone, who has not enough room at home or who lives outside the village, would like the chance to make a scarecrow contact Michael Evans on 822586.

STORY-TELLING: The story-tellers have a meeting at Bob and Maggie's house on Monday at 8.30 pm. Come along if you want to tell a story or just listen to ours. Contact 822718.

VILLAGE FLOWER ARRANGERS: A workshop with tips and ideas for flower arranging will be held in the Institute at 7.30 pm on Tuesday 16th June for those in the village who are creating floral displays for the forthcoming flower festival in July. The informal workshop will be run by Liz Beard and Di Windsor and the admission is free.                                                                                         

No 81     21^st – 27^th May 2009

GALLERY at 12

Church Eaton glass artist Bob Thacker has opened a gallery in Eccleshall with a group of six other local artists. Gallery at 12, in High Street, has exhibits of paintings, ceramics, jewellery, textiles and sculpture. For more information contact 01785 850757.

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

There is Family Communion and Baptism with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby, at 10am on Sunday.
Last week lead was stolen from the roof over the north aisle of the church. This is the third time that thieves have targeted the church in this way in the past year. Anyone knowing anything about the crime should contact churchwarden Michael Evans on 822586. Once again the police have asked people in the village to be vigilant.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Aerobics and Youth Club are this evening at 7pm and 8pm respectively.

Badminton has now finished until September.

The local History Club meets on Tuesday at 7.30pm.

The toddler group, which is for babies through to pre-school children, is on Wednesday morning. The leader is Jo Sabin on 780315. Also on Wednesday the Church Eaton Dog Training Society's classes are at 7pm. More details from Doug or Sandra on 823317.

Would anyone like to organize Short Mat Bowls? We have the mat and equipment but, as yet, no one to get it started.
The hall can be hired for private events on 823067.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

The after school story telling club for years 3, 4 and 5 finishes today. French Club for all years is from 3.25pm until 4.25pm today followed by the brass ensemble group from 4.30pm until 5.30pm. There is football coaching tomorrow for years 1, 2 and 3. The school will be closed next week from Monday until Friday 29th May for half term break. 

ROYAL OAK

There is another pub quiz on Monday at 8pm. The last quiz was won by 'Two Plus One' with Tim Noble, Karen and Granville Reeves and the inquisitors were Dawn and Phil Jones.

VILLAGE CHOIR

The choir meets in the church on Wednesday at 8pm. Contact Daphne on 823958.

TEA and CHAT GROUP

The next meeting is on Monday at Mrs Cooper's in Apeton.

YOUTH STUDY GROUP

The group has a meeting on Thursday from 7pm until 8pm at 5 Ashley Croft.

MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the notice board tomorrow from 2.55pm until 4.20pm.

CHURCH EATON NEWS

If you want free publicity in the Staffordshire Newsletter for events and activities in the village, contact Justin O'Doherty on 824788.

No 80              14^th – 20^th May 2009  

 ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is Holy Communion at 8am and a Celtic Service at 6.30pm, both with the rector the Rev Peter Ashby.
During the May Bank Holiday weekend two large tubs of flowers were stolen from outside the lych-gate. If you saw or know anything about this incident, have a word with churchwarden Michael Evans on 822586.

CHURCH and VILLAGE

The deadline for contributions to the June edition of the parish magazine is today. The editor is David Beech on 780678.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Today there are aerobics classes at 7pm followed by the youth club at 8pm. Badminton is on Monday at 8pm. On Wednesday the toddlers' group meets from 10am until 12noon. The Church Eaton Dog Training Society continues its weekly sessions at 7pm also on Wednesday.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

Story telling, French Club and brass ensemble group meet after school today and there is football coaching tomorrow for years 1, 2 and 3.

The official school photographer will be in school on Wednesday. Parents are asked to bring pre-school children in at 9am. Let your children know if you want an individual and/or family photograph. Team and class photographs will also be taken.
ROYAL OAK

The Stafford Morris Men will be performing outside the pub on Monday evening at 9pm.

On Wednesday there is a festival committee meeting at 8pm.

VILLAGE CHOIR

There is a rehearsal for the July festival concert on Wednesday in the church at 8pm. New singers are always welcome. Contact Daphne on 823958.

FLOWER FESTIVAL 

The next meeting is in Bayfield at 8pm on Monday.

GOALPOSTS MEETING

A short meeting to review progress regarding the provision of goalposts for young people in the village will be held in the school on Wednesday at 7.30pm. The working party consists of Barry Stamp, Malcolm Bennett, Phil Jones, Simon Quinney, John Edwards, Martin Smith, Clive Jones, Ralph Howarth and Trevor Houghton. Details of the first meeting and a follow-up site meeting are posted on the village website at www.churcheaton.org.uk

CHRISTIAN AID

The envelopes will be collected this week. The organizer is Rose at Smithy Cottage (822879).

CHURCH EATON NEWS    

If you want free publicity in the Staffordshire Newsletter for events and activities in the village, contact Justin O'Doherty on 824788.

No 79     7^th – 13^th   May 2009

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is Family Communion and baptism at 10.15 a.m. with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby. At 10 a.m. there is Sunday School in the Institute.

During May Bank Holiday weekend the two large tubs of flowers from outside the lych-gate were stolen. Have a word with Michael Evans on 822586 if you saw or know anything.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE  

Low impact aerobics and body toning is this evening at 7 p.m. followed by a meeting of the Youth Club at 8 p.m. Also today at 8 p.m. is the monthly Institute Committee meeting in 5 Oak Close.

Badminton is on Monday at 8 p.m.

The toddlers' group meets on Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 12 noon and the Church Eaton Dog Training Society has its classes later at 7 p.m.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

A new teaching and resource room for music and group work is being used this term. The John Evans Room is dedicated to the memory of the late chairman of governors and will be officially opened in the next few weeks.
A story telling club starts after school today from 3.30 p.m. until 4 p.m. for years 3, 4 and 5. Also today after school the brass ensemble group meets from 4.30 p.m. until 5.30 p.m. and there is a French club for the reception year through to year 6 from 3.25 p.m. until 4.25 p.m.
A PTA committee meeting will take place in the Royal Oak on Tuesday at 7.30 p.m.

ROYAL OAK         

The next pub quiz is on Monday at 8 p.m. The last quiz, compiled and presented by Nick Lakin, was won by Dave Trigg, Mark Cockle and Les Beattie of the Doo Badleys, but they did not select the correct key to open the jackpot box.

VILLAGE CHOIR

There is a rehearsal for the July festival concert on Wednesday in the church at 8 p.m. New singers are always welcome. Contact Daphne on 823958.

CHURCH EATON YOUTH CLUB

The new Youth Club is for 11 to 15 year olds. It meets on Thursdays during term time from 8 p.m. until 9.30 p.m. and admittance is £1. The club is run by Corrine Noble, Karen Smith and Simon Quinney.

PIANO RECITAL    

After an earlier lunchtime concert at Sheffield Cathedral, Roman Rudnytsky will be at Little Onn Hall at 7.30 p.m. tomorrow to play music by Rachmaninoff, Beethoven, Babajanian, Ravel, Grieg, Debussey and Liszt. Tickets at £15 are still available from Michael Faarup on 824606.

MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the notice board tomorrow from 2.55 p.m. until 4.20 p.m.

CHRISTIAN AID WEEK     

Envelopes for Christian Aid will be posted through doors and collected during Christian Aid Week from Sunday 10th to Saturday 16th May. Please give as generously as you can. The organizer is Rose Atkinson of Smithy Cottage.

BEST KEPT VILLAGE COMPETITION

Help us all to retain the title we won last year. Initial visits from the judges are expected very soon. Signage and neat presentation will play an important part this year in addition to evidence of the usual tidiness and care of the village. Last year's comments, particularly concerning litter and dog fouling, are available on the village website at www.churcheaton.org.uk

CHURCH EATON NEWS  

If you want free publicity in the Newsletter for events and activities in the village, contact Justin O'Doherty on 824788.

No 78  30^th April – 6^th May 2009

 ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is a Family Service at 10 a.m. with the Worship Group.
The churchyard paths have now been resurfaced thanks to funding by the Church Eaton Charities and 15 yew trees, donated by David Wright the Diocesan Forestry Advisor, have been planted to fill in the gaps in the hedge.
There is bell ringing practice this evening at 8 p.m.

CHURCH and VILLAGE

The May edition of the parish magazine is published this week. It costs 30p monthly or £3 annually.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

At last week's annual general meeting John Edwards was elected chairman; Carol Edwards was re-elected as secretary and Judy Davis was elected as treasurer. Members of the committee are Karen Reeves, Trish Houghton and Justin O'Doherty.

The committee needs at least 4 more members to help with the efficient management of the Institute on behalf of the village. Contact the chairman on 823067.
The recent Charity Coffee Morning raised £75 for the Air Ambulance.
The usual Institute activities will take place this week: aerobics this evening at 7 pm; badminton on Monday at 8 pm; toddlers group on Wednesday morning and dog training classes on Wednesday evening at 7 p.m.
The new Youth Club begins this evening at 8 p.m. until 9.30 p.m.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

Last Thursday each class celebrated St George's Day  and Shakespeare's birthday by visiting the charity coffee morning at the village Institute for a drink and a biscuit and to learn about England's patron saint and the great bard.
Booster classes for year 6 SATs are today after school from 3.30 p.m. until 4.30 p.m. The school will be closed tomorrow (an occasional day off) and Monday (May Day) and will reopen on Tuesday. On Tuesday there is a multi-skills club after school from 3.30 p.m. until 4.45 p.m. for the reception class and classes 1 and 2.
 

ROYAL OAK

There is a fish 'n' chips evening on Wednesday from 6.30 p.m. until 9 p.m.

VILLAGE CHOIR

The choir meets in the church on Wednesday at 8 p.m.

PARISH COUNCIL

The next meeting is on Tuesday at 7.30 p.m. in the school. For more information contact the clerk on 01785 822723 or email diane@fellpony.me.uk

VILLAGE FESTIVAL 2009

We are still looking for:

·        sponsors of flower displays in the church – contact Jo on 780315;

·        two or three volunteers to run a burger stall – contact Dawn on 823116

·        various street entertainers – contact Justin on 824788.    

The festival is from 10th to 12th July.

 
GOALPOSTS CAMPAIGN

The small working party representing a cross section of village groups and ages which was set up at the recent ‘goal posts meeting’ will have its first meeting in the school at 7.30 p.m. on Wednesday.

FLOWER QUIZ

Dorothy Hardwick got the most points in this quiz which raised over £200 for the forthcoming Flower Festival in July.

CHURCH EATON NEWS

If you want free publicity in the Newsletter for events and activities in the village, contact Justin O'Doherty on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com                                                                           

 

No 77     23^rd – 29^th April 2009

 THE STATE OF PLAY

You would not think that finding a site where a single set of goal posts could be installed for young people to kick a football around in a rural village with a sports’ association on its doorstep would prove difficult. But that is exactly the case in Church Eaton where this dilemma was the subject of vigorous debate on Tuesday at a meeting organized, and chaired, by Councillor Barry Stamp (ironically called Youth Facilities in Church Eaton).

The meeting was brought about as a result of a “Goalposts for the Glebelands” Campaign run by Martin Smith and the opposition to it by the Glebelands Association. Many interested parties were represented and people, including the youth in the village, had the opportunity to put forward their views and ideas. Malcolm Bennett, chairman of the Glebelands Sports’ Association, gave reasons why his members are against the proposal. He indicated that there were no circumstances where he would allow the erection of goal posts on the Glebelands. Alternative suggestions were made but without any apparent solution to the problem. However, a small working party, representing a cross section of village groups and ages, was set up to look at ways forward and it will have its first meeting on Wednesday 6th May in the school.

* A much more comprehensive account of the meeting , a personal view by John Edwards, is available on the Church Eaton website at www.churcheaton.org.uk

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

At 10 am on Sunday there is Family Communion with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby and Sunday School for the children in the Institute.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

This term there are multi-skills sports after school on Tuesdays from 3.30 pm to 4.45 pm for the reception class and classes 1 and 2.

THE ROYAL OAK

The next pub quiz is on Monday at 8 pm.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Celebrate St George's Day at a Charity Coffee Morning from 9 am to 12.30 pm today.

Low impact aerobics and body toning classes are at 7 pm this evening.

The AGM of the Institute is tomorrow Friday at 8 pm.

Badminton is on Monday at 8 pm.

On Tuesday the Local History Club meets at 8 pm.

The toddlers' group meets on Wednesday from 10 am until 12 noon and later the Church Eaton and District Dog Training Society continues its classes at 7 pm.

VILLAGE CHOIR

The choir meets in the church on Wednesday at 8pm.

TALLEST SWEET PEA CHALLENGE

This is to raise money for the village festival. Seeds and details are available from Karen Reeves on 823674.

CLASSICAL PIANO

There will be another of Roman Rudnytsky's popular piano recitals at Little Onn Hall on Friday 8th May. Tickets are £15 and available from Michael Faarup on 824606.

 MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the notice board tomorrow from 2.55 pm to 4.20 pm.

CHURCH EATON NEWS

If you want free publicity in the Staffordshire Newsletter for events and activities in the village, contact Justin O’Doherty at Hanwell Cottage.

No 76     16^th – 22^nd April 2009

GOALPOSTS CAMPAIGN

The open meeting, organised by Councillor Barry Stamp, to discuss the provision of goalposts for young people in the village is on Tuesday at 7.30 p.m. in the Institute. Among those represented will be the Community Council of Staffordshire; the County Council Community Learning Partnership and the Borough Council Leisure Department.

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is Holy Communion at 8 a.m. with the Rev Geoffrey Smith and a Celtic service at 6.30 p.m. with the worship group.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Low impact aerobics and body toning continues this evening at 7pm.

Badminton is on Monday at 8 p.m.

On Wednesday the toddlers' group meets from 10 a.m. until 12 noon and the Church Eaton and District Dog Training Society has its classes at 7 p.m.

Next Thursday there is the first of a series of Institute Coffee Mornings from 10 a.m. to 12 noon which will raise money for various charities.

On Friday 24th April at 8 p.m. is the Annual General Meeting of the Institute followed by a trial session of short mat bowls.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

Pupils return to school on Tuesday after their Easter break.

ROYAL OAK

The recent Charity Race Night raised £306 for Wish House.

FLOWER FESTIVAL 2009

There is a flower festival committee meeting in Bayfield on Monday at 8 p.m. The chairman is Jo Sabin on 780315.

VILLAGE CHOIR

The choir meets in the church every Wednesday at 8 p.m. Daphne Rutherford (823958) is looking for more voices, preferably male, to sing songs from the musical Carousel in preparation for the village festival in July.

TEA and CHAT GROUP

The next meeting is on Monday at Mrs Taylor's house. The secretary of the Tea and Chat group is Anne Cooper on 822817.

STORY TELLING

The storytellers meet on Monday at 8.30 p.m. in Apeton Smallholdings for their usual monthly session. Story listeners are welcome too. Contact Maggie on 822718.

PARISH COUNCIL

At the recent annual general meeting of the Parish Council Trevor Houghton was re-elected to the post of chairman and Sheila Dodd was re-elected as vice chair.

VILLAGE FINGERPOSTS

Work has now begun on the repair and refurbishment of the fingerposts. The Parish Council is grateful to Robert Carless who has offered to supply new timber for any of the fingerposts which may need to be replaced.

CHILDREN'S PLAYGROUND

The new netball post has now been installed. The parish council is looking for quotes to renew the entire back chain-link fencing of the playground and any concrete posts which need replacing.

VILLAGE FESTIVAL

The festival committee meets again in the Royal Oak on Wednesday at 8 p.m. Come along if you have any suggestions for this year's festival or if you want to help. Alternatively, you could put forward your ideas using the festival blog on the village website at www.churcheaton.org.uk

CHURCH EATON NEWS

If you want free publicity in the Staffordshire Newsletter for events and activities in the village, contact Justin O'Doherty on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com

 

No75 9^th -15^th April 2009

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Saturday, Easter Eve, the parishes of Bradley, Derrington and Haughton join with Church Eaton at 9pm to light Pascal candles at a service of New Fire with the Rector, the Rev Peter Ashby. There is Family Communion on Easter Sunday at 10.15am also with the Rector.

CHURCH and VILLAGE

The deadline for contributions to the May edition of the parish magazine is Tuesday. The editor is David Beech on 780678.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Aerobics classes are this evening at 7pm. The toddlers meet on Wednesday morning and later at 7pm there are the usual dog training sessions.

A series of Charity Coffee Mornings in the Institute begins on Thursday 23rd April from 10am until 12 noon. This first event will raise money for the Air Ambulance and the Institute itself. Cake donations are most welcome. Contact Carol on 823067.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

There is a gallery of photographs of World Book Day on the school website at www.churcheatonschool.com

ROYAL OAK

There is no pub quiz on Bank Holiday Monday - the next one is on April 27. The last quiz was won by Paul Jones, Phil Jones, Alan Poulson, Nigel Roberts and Les Beattie of Gizza Clue. The jackpot was not won.

VILLAGE CHOIR

The choir will resume rehearsals on Wednesday 22nd April.

CHURCH EATON YOUTH CLUB

A new youth club will start on April 30 for 11-15 year olds in the village. It will be held every Thursday in the Institute from 8pm to 9.30pm supervised by Corinne Noble, Karen Smith and Simon Quinney. Admission is £1.

GOALPOSTS CAMPAIGN

A meeting about providing goal posts for the young people in the village has been arranged by Councillor Barry Stamp for Tuesday 21st April at 7.30pm in the Institute. Details of who will be represented are to be announced later.

MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will not be in the village tomorrow. The next visit is scheduled for April 24.

VILLAGE FESTIVAL 2009

Clare Barnett has offered to organize a fancy dress parade and competition. Judges from outside the village have already been appointed. Volunteers are now needed to cook and sell burgers as well as someone to run a talent competition. Contact Dawn on 823116.

VILLAGE WEBSITE

For more information about Church Eaton visit the website at www.churcheaton.org.uk

CHURCH EATON NEWS                                                                  

If you want free publicity in the Staffordshire Newsletter for events and activities in the village, contact Justin O'Doherty on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com

CHURCH EATON ARTICLES  are posted every Thursday on the village notice board; the notice board of The Royal Oak and on the village website.

                  No 74    2^nd - 8^th April 2009

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Palm Sunday the Worship Group will lead a Family Service at 10 a.m.
The archdeacon has given permission for resurfacing the churchyard paths and the work on this will commence shortly. A grant from Church Eaton Charities will pay for the cost.
There is bell ringing practice this evening at 8 p.m.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

• Aerobics and body toning continues this evening at 7 p.m.

• Badminton is on Monday at 8 p.m.

• On Wednesday the toddlers meet from 10 a.m. until 12 noon.

• During the Easter holidays older brothers and sisters are welcome to join the younger members of their family.

• Also on Wednesday, the Church Eaton and District Dog Training Society has its classes at 7 p.m.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

Before an Easter service in school tomorrow at 2.40 p.m. there will be an Easter bonnet/hat parade.
The school will close for Easter tomorrow and reopen on Tuesday 21st April.

PARISH COUNCIL

The annual general meeting of the Parish Council and its usual monthly meeting will both be held on Tuesday at 7.30 p.m. in the school.

FLOWER POT COMPETITION

This year, instead of the usual hanging basket competition, there will be a Flower Pot Competition organised and sponsored by the Parish Council. Details from Trevor on 823068.

VILLAGE CHOIR

The choir is rehearsing songs from the musical Carousel in the church on Wednesday at 8 p.m. New members are always welcome. The choirmaster is Paul Weaver on 780751.

STREET ENTERTAINMENT

The festival organizers are still looking for street musicians and other entertainers to perform at the village festival on July 11 and 12. Contact Justin on 824788.

FANCY DRESS COMPETITION

The festival committee is also looking for someone in the village, not involved in the festival procession, to organize a Fancy Dress Competition. Contact Dawn on 823116.

CHURCH EATON GOLF SOCIETY

The first tournament of the season took place last Sunday at Cannock Park in glorious weather. First was Steve Caplan, second was John Wrotchford and third place went to Chris Lees. 

SHORT MAT BOWLS

Some people have suggested setting up short mat bowls in the village which would be held in the Institute possibly during the day. If anyone else is interested in this idea (or has any woods for sale), please contact Bob on 823663.

CHURCH EATON NEWS

If you want free publicity in the Staffordshire Newsletter for events and activities in the village, contact Justin O'Doherty on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com                 

These CHURCH EATON ARTICLES are also posted on the notice board of the Royal Oak and on the village notice board.

No 73                    26^th March – 1^st April 2009

ST EDITHA’S CHURCH                                        

The parishes of Bradley, Derrington and Haughton join with Church Eaton at 10am on Sunday for an United Service with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby. Dave King from Christian Aid has been invited to speak.

CHURCH and VILLAGE                                        

The April edition of the parish magazine will be published this week. It costs 30p or £3 annually. To order a copy contact 824788.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE                                        

Low-impact aerobics and body toning is this evening at 7pm and there is an Institute Committee meeting in 5 Oak Close at 8pm. Badminton is on Monday at 8pm. On Wednesday the toddlers meet from 10am until 12 noon and the Church Eaton and District Dog Training Society has its classes at 7pm.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL                                           

The following pupils played music at the Evening with Church Eaton Choir last Wednesday:Maizie Lippett, Laura Elsley and Natasha Bolton (flutes); Katie Smith, Rebecca Holbrook and Rebecca Jones (cornets); Laura Bellamy, Abigail Grundy and Tan Suntronsavatoon (trumpets); Matthew Smith (tenor horn); Tom Howarth (euphonium); Matthew Dudley (tuba) and Olivia Lowe (French horn). Well done everybody!

Parents are invited to class 3's assembly tomorrow morning at 9.15. There is a Swimming Gala for years 3 and 4 on Tuesday at Stafford Leisure Centre and an Easter Egg Hunt for the whole school, organized by the PTA, on Wednesday morning.

MOBILE LIBRARY
The library van will be parked by the post box tomorrow from 2.55pm until 4.20pm. 

Please note that, as the mobile library will not be here on Good Friday (April 10), the next visit will not be until 24^th April.

ROYAL OAK                                                 

The pub quiz is on Monday at 8pm. The last quiz, by Nick Lakin, was won again by Ian and Joan Watkins, and Rob and Carol Page of The Flatlanders.
Money raised from last November's Harvest Auction at the Royal Oak has been given to the church and the young people in the village: 

• St Editha's Churchyard Gardeners (£300)

• St Editha's Organ Fund (£200)

• Sunday School (£150)

• Jack & Jill's Pre-school Playgroup (£200)

• Church Eaton Toddlers' Group (£200)

• Church Eaton Primary School (£200)

Special thanks to Mark Stockhall and Roger Thomas, who arranged the auction and allocated the money.

CHURCH EATON CHOIR                                                

The enjoyable concert last week by the village choir raised £420 for MacMillan Cancer Research. Congratulations to Paul Weaver and Daphne Rutherford and everybody who contributed to the success of the event.                                                    

The choir meets in the church on Wednesday at 8pm when they will begin rehearsals for the forthcoming village festival in July. Contact Daphne on 823958.

CHURCH EATON NEWS                                          

If you want free publicity in the Newsletter for events and activities in the village, contact Justin O'Doherty on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com

No 72         19^th – 25^th March 2009

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

At 10am on Sunday there is Family communion with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby and Sunday school for the children in the Institute. For more information about Sunday school contact Maureen on 823844 or Julie on 823049.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

The low-impact aerobics and body tone course, run by Jo Sabin, continues this evening at 7pm. Badminton is on Monday at 8pm. The local history club has a meeting on Tuesday at 8pm. www.churcheatonhistory.org.uk has more details. On Wednesday the toddlers meet from 10am until 12 noon. New mums and dads and babies are always welcome. Also on Wednesday, the Church Eaton and District Dog Training Society has its classes at 7pm.
 Last Saturday’s village dinner was a great occasion: there was lots of grub - a joint of beef on every table and plenty of yummy home-made desserts. People brought their own tipple and the craic was good. Special mention must be made of Carol Edwards who did the cooking and, indeed, everyone who helped.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

Booster classes for year 6 SATS and cookery club for years 3 and 4 continue after school today. Parents are invited to class 2's assembly tomorrow at 9.15am. Story telling is on Monday from 3.30pm until 4pm. Laura Elsley of class 4 has been highly commended in the Young Author of the Year competition. There is a gallery of photographs of World Book Day on the school website at www.churcheatonschool.com

ROYAL OAK

It is essential to book if you want a table for Mothering Sunday. Contact Mark on 823078.

VILLAGE CHOIR

The choir meets in the church at 8pm on Wednesday.

TEA and CHAT GROUP

There is a meeting of the group on Monday in Mrs Jones' house at Marston. The secretary is Anne Cooper on 822817.

FLOWER FESTIVAL 2009                           

The committee's next meeting is in Bayfield at 8pm on Monday. NAFAS members from Albrighton, Newport, Pattingham, Shifnal, Stafford and Wrekin have all agreed to contribute flower arrangements to this year's flower festival which will be held in St Editha's church. In addition, some Staffordshire artists are supporting the event with a range of arts and crafts, from photography to pottery, designed to complement the floral displays. The theme of the flower festival is A Lifetime in Flowers tracing the main stages of life from birth through death to resurrection. If anyone would like to sponsor a display, contact chairman Jo Sabin on 780315 or secretary Michael Evans on 822586.

VILLAGE FESTIVAL 2009

On Wednesday at 8pm there is a meeting for the village festival committee in the Royal Oak. There is an opportunity for people to post their ideas for the festival on the blogspot on the village website at www.churcheaton.org.uk if they do not wish to come along to the meeting or phone Dawn on 823116. The festival is the weekend of July 10-12.

STORYTELLING

The story tellers meet in Hanwell Cottage at 8.30pm on Monday. Story listeners are welcome too. Contact 824788 if you would like to come along.

CHILDREN'S PLAYGROUND

A new netball post has been delivered and will be installed shortly. The parish council is looking for quotes to renew the entire back chain-link fencing of the playground and any concrete posts which may need replacing.

CIVIC AMENITIES

The dates for this year's civic amenities visits at the Royal Oak car park have been fixed and are as follows: June 13; August 22 and December 15. As before, you are asked to be there in person to hand over items for disposal.

CHURCH EATON NEWS

If you want free publicity in the Newsletter for events and activities in the village, contact Justin O'Doherty on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com

No 71   12^th – 18^th March 2009

An Evening with Church Eaton Choir

The choir, supported by Church Eaton school, invites you to an evening of songs from the shows, popular tunes and madrigals on Wednesday at 8pm in St Editha’s Church.

Tickets are £4 each and include a glass of wine or a soft drink.

All proceeds will go to MacMillan Cancer Support.

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is Holy Communion at 8am and a Celtic Service at 6.30pm both with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby. Bell ringing is tonight at 8pm.

CHURCH and VILLAGE

The deadline for contributions to the April edition of the parish magazine is Saturday. The editor is David Beech on 780678.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

The low-impact aerobics and body tone course continues this evening at 7pm. The annual Village Dinner is on Saturday at 7.30pm for an 8pm start. Bring your own drinks. There are just a few tickets available from John or Carol on 823067. Badminton is on Monday at 8pm. Peter Ashby's course 'Exploring Spirituality' is on Tuesday at 7.30pm. On Wednesday the toddlers meet from 10am until 12 noon and the Church Eaton and District Dog Training Society classes are at 7pm.

The Institute was broken into last Saturday night and the police have been informed. If anyone saw anything suspicious, please contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or speak to John Edwards.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL 

Booster classes for year 6 SATS and cookery club for years 3 and 4 continue after school today. Parents are invited to class 1's assembley tomorrow at 9.15am. Story telling is on Monday from 3.30pm until 4pm. On Wednesday evening pupils are taking part in the concert by the village choir.

ROYAL OAK

The next pub quiz is on Monday at 8pm with Nick Lakin as inquisitor. The last quiz was compiled and presented by Ian Watkins and won by Alan Poulson, Nigel Roberts, Phil Jones, Nick Lakin and Les Beattie of 'Gizza Clue'. There is a Charity Race Meeting on Tuesday at 8pm and a Pasta Evening on Wednesday from 6.30pm.

LOCAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

As part of Stafford Borough Council's consultation procedures, there will be a public exhibition of their building plans for the area at the Grosvenor Centre, Gnosall between 2pm and 8pm tomorrow.

MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the notice board tomorrow from 2.55pm until 4.20pm.

VILLAGE WEBSITE

For more information about Church Eaton and to use the village blogspot, there is the website at www.churcheaton.org.uk

CHURCH EATON NEWS

If you want publicity for events and activities in the village, contact Justin on 824788.

No 70:    5^th – 11^th March 2009

THE  VILLAGE  DINNER

This year's dinner is on Saturday 14th March in the Institute and will be a great opportunity for a village get-together. There will be a 5 course meal of an antipasti platter; roast beef and Yorkshire pudding (or vegetarian option) with baby rosemary potatoes; choice of desserts; cheese and biscuits; coffee and chocolates. Bring your own drinks and, by popular request, there will be no speaker this year. Tickets are £15 each and are now on sale from Carol 823067; Justin 824788; Karen 823674 or Judy 823779.

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH 

There is Family Communion and Baptism on Sunday at 10.15 a.m. with the Rev Michael Metcalf. Sunday School for the children is in the Institute at 10 a.m. For more information about Sunday School contact Julie on 823049 or Maureen on 823844.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

The low-impact aerobics course, run by Jo Sabin, is this evening at 7pm. Badminton is on Monday at 8 p.m. On Tuesday Rachel Millington continues her art course at 7.30 p.m. The toddler group meets from 10 a.m. until 12 noon on Wednesday and later at 7 p.m. there is the weekly dog class by the Church Eaton and District Dog Training Society.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

Today is World Book Day and the pupils have been asked to come to school dressed as a character from a book. On Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday there will also be a book fair.

VILLAGE CHOIR

Rehearsals for the forthcoming Evening with Church Eaton Choir continue on Wednesday in the church at 8 p.m. Tickets for the actual event on March18^th are £4 and are available from Daphne on 823958 or any member of the choir.

No 69:  26^th February – 4^th March 2009

 FLOWER FESTIVAL                         

NAFAS members from Albrighton, Pattingham, Wrekin, Newport, Shifnal and Stafford have all agreed to contribute flower arrangements to the festival on 11th and 12th July. Flower Festival chairman, Jo Sabin, said, "We aim to have a feast of flowers with poetry, music, arts, crafts and the usual scarecrows celebrating life in this village. We want it to be beautiful, inspiring and fun.” The displays will be in the church and the theme is A Lifetime in Flowers.

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is a Family Service with the Worship Group at 10am. Bell ringing practice is this evening at 8pm.

CHURCH and VILLAGE

The March edition of the parish magazine is published this week. It costs 30p or £3 annually. To order a copy contact 824788.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

The low-impact aerobics and body tone course is this evening at 7pm. Badminton is on Monday at 8pm. Peter Ashby's course, Exploring Spirituality is on Tuesday at 7.30pm. On Wednesday the toddlers meet from 10am until 12 noon and later at 7pm Church Eaton Dog Training continues its weekly classes.

Tickets for the Village Dinner on March 14th are currently on sale at £15.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL  

Booster lessons for year 6 SATs are after school today from 3.30pm until 4.30pm and there is also cookery club for years 3 and 4 from 3.30pm until 5pm. Story telling for years 3 - 6 is on Monday from 3.30pm until 4pm. On Wednesday the boys' football team will be taking part in a 6-a-side event organized by Stafford Borough Council.

World Book Day is on March 5 and pupils are asked to come to school dressed as a character from a book.

 THE ROYAL OAK 

The next pub quiz* is on Monday at 8pm. The last quiz, presented by Rob Page, was won by Alan Poulson, Nigel Roberts and Les Beattie of Gizza Clue.

*Anyone who may not want to take part as a contestant but who would like to compile a quiz should contact the pub on 823078 or Les Beattie on 823062

VILLAGE CHOIR

Rehearsals continue on Wednesday in the church at 8pm for the forthcoming Evening with Church Eaton Choir on March 18.

PARISH COUNCIL

The parish council will meet on Tuesday at 7.30pm in the school. For more information contact the clerk on 01785 822723 or at www.diane@fellpony.me.uk

GOALPOSTS for the GLEBELANDS     

The campaign is continuing with over 60 postings on the Church Eaton blogspot. Councillor Barry Stamp has said that it will be another two or three weeks before the meeting to discuss the issue can be held.

MUSIC APPRECIATION   

Wednesday's meeting is at 8pm in Wheaton Aston.

MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the post box from 2.55pm until 4.20pm tomorrow.

VILLAGE WEBSITE

For more information about Church Eaton visit the website at www.churcheaton.org.uk

CHURCH EATON NEWS

If you want free publicity in the Newsletter for events and activities in the village contact Justin O'Doherty on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com

No 68: 19^th – 25^th February 2009

LOCAL DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

Stafford Borough Council plans to build approximately 13,000 houses between now and 2026 and, as part of the consultative process, Chairman of the Parish Council Trevor Houghton has attended a special meeting for parish councillors on the subject. Although there is little likelihood of major building in Church Eaton, this is not the case in Haughton or Gnosall. For a more detailed idea of what is proposed there is a public exhibition of the Local Development Framework at the Grosvenor Centre in Gnosall on 12th March between 2pm and 8pm where there will be an opportunity to see and discuss the plans with representatives from the Borough Planning Department. You may find it interesting to attend.

ST EDITHA’S CHURCH

On Sunday there is Family Communion at 10am with the Rev Peter Ashby. There is no Sunday school for the children.

BELL RINGING

The bell ringers recommence practice this evening at 8pm.

THE VILLAGE DINNER

This year's dinner is on Saturday 14th March in the Institute. It will be a 5 course meal of an antipasta platter; roast beef and Yorkshire pudding (or vegetarian option) with baby roast rosemary potatoes; choice of desserts; cheese and biscuits and coffee and chocolates. Bring your own drinks and, by popular demand, there will be no speaker this year. Tickets are £15 each and are now on sale from Carol 823067; Justin 824788; Karen 823674 or Judy 823779. 

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Low-impact aerobics and body toning continues this evening from 7pm until 8pm with Jo Sabin (780315). Badminton is on Monday at 8pm. The toddlers have their weekly session on Wednesday from 10am until 12 noon. Also on Wednesday the Church Eaton and District Dog Training Society has its classes at 7pm.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

In a recent gym competition at Stafford Leisure Centre, Briony Green came 2nd and Katie Smith came 5th. Natasha Bolton has reached the national finals of the Royal Mail Young Letter Writers' Competition with a letter to her heroine Lyra in the book The Golden Compass. There were over 10,000 entries for the competition.
The school re-opens for pupils on Tuesday.

STORYTELLING

The story tellers meet this evening in Ana Lines' house at 8.30pm.

TEA and CHAT GROUP

The next meeting is on Monday at Mrs Coopers, Apeton.

VILLAGE FESTIVAL 2009

The festival committee has a meeting in The Royal Oak on Wednesday at 8pm. Everybody is welcome to attend or, alternatively, post your ideas about the festival before the meeting on our blogspot on the Church Eaton website at www.churcheaton.org.uk . We are still looking for street musicians and entertainers and volunteers to sell ice cream. People to cook and sell burgers and hot dogs are also needed. Help to make it happen.

VILLAGE CHOIR

On Wednesday 18th March there will be 'An Evening with Church Eaton Choir' supported by Church Eaton school and friends. All proceeds will go to MacMillan Nurses. Tickets are £4 to include a drink and are available from Daphne on 823958.

TELEPHONE KIOSKS

The Parish Council has received a letter from Stafford Borough Council saying that kiosks which were proposed for removal will now remain in place. In future if BT wishes to remove a telephone box, it will have to challenge any objections made by Parish Councils and notify the Borough of any plans to do so.

LOCAL HIGHWAYS

Several complaints about the extremely poor condition of Wollaston Lane have been made to the Parish Council who are contacting the County Council Highways Department. There was also concern expressed about the state of Birchmoor Lane.

CHURCH EATON NEWS

If you want free publicity in the Newsletter for events and activities in the village, contact Justin O'Doherty on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com  

No 67: 12^th – 18^th February 2009

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is Holy Communion at 8am with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby and he will also lead a Celtic service at 6.30pm.

CHURCH and VILLAGE

The deadline for contributions to the March edition of the parish magazine is Saturday. The editor is David Beech on 780678.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

A low-impact aerobics and body tone course starts this evening from 7pm until 8pm. More details from Jo Sabin on 780315. Also this evening there is an Institute committee meeting at 8pm in the hall. Badminton is on Monday at 8pm. Peter Ashby's course, Exploring Spirituality, is on Tuesday at 7.30pm. On Wednesday the toddlers' group meets from 10am until 12 noon and the Church Eaton and District Dog Training Society continues its classes at 7pm.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

Tomorrow parents will receive a short report on their children's progress and effort in the core subjects. Also tomorrow class 4 is performing an assembly on Healthy Eating for their parents and in the afternoon the Gentleshaw Wildife Centre is bringing in a selection of birds for the pupils to learn about. This activity has been funded by the PTA. The school is on half term holiday from tomorrow until Tuesday 24th February.

THE ROYAL OAK

The pub quiz is on Monday at 8pm with question master Rob Page. The last quiz was won again by The Flatlanders who also selected the correct key to open the jackpot box containing £60. There is a Mexican evening on Wednesday from 6.30pm.

VILLAGE CHOIR

The choir meets in the church on Wednesday at 8pm.

MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the post box from 2.55pm until 4.20pm tomorrow.

No 66           5^th – 11^th February 2009

GOALPOSTS FOR THE GLEBELANDS

Last week Malcolm Bennett, chairman of Glebelands Sports' Association Ltd, reported that there is 'overwhelming opposition' by the association to the proposal to install a set of goal posts on the Glebelands for the youth of the village and he called for an effective end to the campaign. Campaign leader, Martin Smith, has said that it will not end and that he intends to pursue the matter until there is an effective solution. So far the debate about goal posts has been conducted mainly through the Church Eaton blog where there are over 40 comments on the subject. Councillor Barry Stamp has intervened and offered to organize a public meeting about the issue as soon as he can arrange representation from all interested parties. The purpose of such a meeting would be 'to discuss all possibilities and not just pursue one course of action' and he said he was 'really worried that the whole plan to give the youngsters somewhere to kick a ball could come to nothing.'        

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday at 10.15 a.m. there is Family Communion with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby. In the Institute at 10 a.m. there is Sunday School for the children. For further information about Sunday school contact Julie on 823049 or Maureen on 823844.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Badminton is on Monday at 8 p.m. The monthly Art course is on Tuesday at 7.30 p.m. The toddlers' group meets on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until 12 noon and the dog classes are at 7 p.m.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

This evening years 2, 3 and 4 are going to King Edward VI High School for a course on Circus Skills. Briony Green and Katie Smith will represent the school at a Gym Competition on Tuesday at Stafford Leisure Centre. The recent Bring and Buy Sale raised £156 and the children decided to donate it to the RSPCA, the NSPCC and a local donkey sanctuary.
An outdoor stage with a backdrop has been constructed for pupils to put on plays and shows and encourage their drama and dance.

THE ROYAL OAK      

Don’t forget to book your table for Valentine’s Day. Contact Mark on 823078.

VILLAGE CHOIR

'An Evening with Church Eaton Village Choir & Friends' is being planned to raise money for MacMillan nurses. Contact Daphne on 823958.

LOCAL HISTORY CLUB

A local history club was started on January 27 and a new website has been set up to give details of its activities. If you would like to join and help delve into the past and present of Church Eaton call 823067.

CHURCH EATON YOUTH CLUB

There was a successful youth club in the village until 4 years ago and a proposal has now been put forward to re-form it which will require committed leaders and helpers. A meeting has been arranged in The Royal Oak this evening (Thurs) at 7.30 p.m. for anyone interested in being involved in any way. Further details from Bob Thacker on 823663.

VILLAGE SIGN

The first phase of workshops and analysis of the data are now complete and it is time to move on and start the designs. The village has produced lots of ideas and the next workshop, which is this Sunday from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m., will take these and develop four draft designs for discussion. It will be hands-on group work with help if needed. All ages and abilities are welcome and there is no need to be able to draw. This workshop may be your last chance to influence the design. The project leader is Bob Thacker on 823663.  

VILLAGE FESTIVAL 2009

There is now a post on the Church Eaton blog for you to share your ideas about this year's festival in July. Help to make it happen by offering to help.

No 65         29^th January – 4^th February 2009

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

The Worship Group will lead a Family Service this Sunday at 10 a.m.

CHURCH and VILLAGE

February’s edition of the parish magazine will be published this week.

BURNS NIGHT

The 250th anniversary of the birth of Robert Burns will be celebrated on Saturday at Little Onn Hall. St Editha's PCC would like to thank David and Caroline Bradshaw for providing the venue. There are no tickets left for this event.

FLOWER FESTIVAL 2009

There is a meeting in St Editha's church on Tuesday at 8 p.m. for NAFAS members, local florists and flower arrangers from the village. The theme for the festival is A Lifetime in Flowers.
 
VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Badminton is on Monday at 8 p.m. The second session of Peter Ashby's course 'Exploring Spirituality' is on Tuesday at 7.30 p.m. On Wednesday the toddlers' group meets from 10 a.m. until 12 noon and the Church Eaton and District Dog Training Society continues its classes at 7 p.m.
A low-impact aerobics and body-tone course will start on February 12^th  from 7 p.m. until 8 p.m. More details from Jo Sabin on 780315.
To hire the Institute contact Carol Edwards on 823067.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

The cookery club for years 3 and 4 and the booster class for year 6 continue today (Thurs) from 3.30 p.m. until 4.30 p.m. Story-telling for years 3 to 6 is on Monday after school until 4 p.m.
 *Two laptop computers, used to drive interactive whiteboards in classroom teaching, were stolen from the school during the evening performance of the pupils' Nativity play in the church on December 12. Any information about this incident can be phoned anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

ROYAL OAK

The next pub quiz is on Monday at 8 p.m. with Nick Lakin as quizmaster and an opportunity to win the jackpot of £60. The last quiz was won yet again by 'The Flatlanders' of Ian and Joan Watkins, and Rob and Carol Page.
There is a fish ‘n’ chips evening on Wednesday from 6.30 p.m. Bookings are now being taken for Valentine's Day. Contact Mark on 823078.

VILLAGE CHOIR

Weekly rehearsals continue in the church at 8 p.m. on Wednesday.

PARISH COUNCIL

The parish council meets on Tuesday at 7.30 p.m. in the school.

MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the post box from 2.55 p.m. until 4.20 p.m. tomorrow.

CHURCH EATON BLOG

The blog is available on our website www.churcheaton.org.uk  for us to give our views on village concerns and it is being well used. At present there are 24 comments generally supporting Goalposts for the Glebelands and 1 comment from Malcolm Bennett, Chairman of the Glebelands Sports Association Ltd, rejecting the proposal and insisting that the campaign must come to an end. Views have also been expressed about the new village sign and the proposal to floodlight the church from the north side. A Visitors Page has just been set up too. New ideas for the Festival in July would also be very welcome from bloggers who do not want to join committees or attend meetings on the subject. The webmaster is John Edwards on 823067. Let’s hear what you think!

CHURCH EATON NEWS

News for publication should be sent to Justin at Hanwell Cottage on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com

No 64  22^nd – 28^th January 2009

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

The funeral of Tommy Lockett (88) takes place today at 1.30 p.m. with a reception afterwards in the Institute.

On Sunday at 10 a.m. there is Family Communion with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby and Sunday School in the Institute.

BURNS NIGHT

There are only two tickets left for the Burns Night at Little Onn Hall on January 31. Contact Michael Evans on 822586.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Badminton is on Monday at 8 p.m.

On Tuesday there is a meeting at 8 p.m. for anyone interested in forming a Local History Club. Contact John Edwards on 823067. The Toddlers' group meets on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until 12 noon. New mums, dads and babies are always welcome. Contact Jo Sabin on 780315.

The Church Eaton & District Dog Training Society continues its classes on Wednesday at 7 p.m. The society is Kennel Club listed and welcomes all dogs from beginner to competition standard. Further details from Doug & Sandra Webb on 01785 823317.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

A cookery club for years 3 and 4 starts today after school until 5 p.m. The booster class for year 6 is also today and this finishes at 4.30 p.m. tomorrow there is a Bring and Buy sale in the school hall at 10.45 a.m. Please donate cakes, second-hand books, toys (in good condition) and white elephant goods (but no electrical items). Proceeds will be given to charities decided by the children. On Monday the story-telling club continues after school until 4 p.m. for years 3-6.

THE ROYAL OAK

The pub is taking bookings for Valentine's Day. Contact Mark on 823078.

VILLAGE CHOIR

At present the choir is rehearsing every Wednesday at 8 p.m. in the church for a fund-raising event in aid of MacMillan nurses which will be held sometime in March.

MUSIC APPRECIATION

The group meets this evening at Hanwell Cottage.

GOALPOSTS FOR THE GLEBELANDS

In an open forum at the last Parish Council meeting, goalposts for the Glebelands was discussed and Malcolm Bennett, Chairman of the Glebelands Association, said he would convene a meeting of representatives of all interested parties to discuss the subject further.

FLOWER FESTIVAL 2009

There is a meeting in the church on Monday at 8 p.m. for village organizations and flower arrangers. Contact Jo Sabin on 780315.

VILLAGE FINGERPOSTS

Following consideration of submitted quotations, it has been agreed by the Parish Council that work can commence shortly on the refurbishment of the fingerposts and that their current wooden design will be retained.

FLOODING PROBLEMS

All interested parties have now been contacted in a bid to resolve the current flooding problems in the area. A walk of the affected land is due to take place shortly.

CHILDREN'S PLAYGROUND

The roadside fence posts have now been replaced and the Parish Council will consider replacing the entire back fence subject to funding.

VILLAGE FESTIVAL 2009

The annual village festival is on 10th-12th July. The festival committee is already looking for volunteers to organize a fancy dress competition and a pram race. People to sell ice cream and to cook and sell burgers are also needed. Street musicians and entertainers, face-painters and hair-braiders are all required to make this year's event the best ever. Please offer your help and don’t wait to be asked. Contact Dawn on 823116.

CHURCH EATON NEWS

News for publication should be submitted to Justin at Hanwell Cottage on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com

No 63:    15^th – 21^st January 2009

Goodnight Mister Tom

The village is sad to learn that Tommy Lockett died on Tuesday aged 88. He was born and bred in Church Eaton and had a great knowledge and love of the village. Every week he tended his wife’s grave and chatted to everybody he met. He was a popular, gregarious, and well-respected member of our community. Just before Christmas he was seen helping men from Severn Trent Water locate drains outside Church Farm – typical Tommy. His funeral is at 1.30 p.m. on Thursday 22^nd January at St Editha’s church with a gathering afterwards at the Institute of which he was a loyal trustee.

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is Holy Communion at 8 a.m. and a Celtic service at 6.30 p.m. both with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby.
Comments on the proposal to extend the floodlighting of the church to the north side should be passed to Michael Evans before Monday's PCC meeting where the subject will be discussed.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

There is a Committee Meeting in the Institute this evening at 8 p.m.. Badminton is on Monday at 8 p.m.. Also on Monday there is another story telling session in 6 Swan Court at 8.30 p.m. The mothers' and toddlers' group meets on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until 12 noon. New mums, dads and babies are always welcome. Contact Jo Sabin on 780315. The Church Eaton & District Dog Training Society continues its classes on Wednesday at 7 p.m.. The society is Kennel Club listed and welcomes all dogs from beginner to competition standard. Further details from Doug & Sandra Webb on 01785 823317.

ROYAL OAK

The pub quiz is on Monday at 8 p.m.. The last quiz was presented by Karen Reeves and won by 'The Glums' - Bob, Jacqui and Matthew Thacker with Sean McDougall.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

Booster classes for year 6 begin today after school and every Thursday until the end of term. The classes finish at 4.30 p.m.. On Monday there is a story-telling club after school for years 3 to 6 which will finish at 4 p.m..
Bitesize Theatre will be performing Babes in the Wood for the whole school, including the pre-reception class, on Wednesday afternoon. The PTA has funded this event.
Pupil Tom Howarth will represent the school at the regional heats at Burton Library for the BBC TV programme Off by Heart which wants primary school pupils to engage with learning and reciting poetry. Tom's chosen poem is The Owl and the Pussycat by Edward Lear.
A gallery of photographs of the Christmas nativity play can be found on the school website at www.churcheatonschool.com

VILLAGE CHOIR

Music rehearsals continue in the church on Wednesday at 8 p.m. with conductor Paul Weaver.

No 62         8^th – 14^th January 2009

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is Family Communion at 10.15 a.m. and Sunday School for the children in the Institute at 10 a.m.
For those who would like to explore their spirituality further this year, the Church is offering a special programme on alternate Tuesday evenings from 20th January through till Easter. The course, led by Peter Ashby, will be held in the village Institute. Further details are available from Peter on 780210 or the churchwardens - Daphne Rutherford on 823958 and Michael Evans on 822586.

BURNS NIGHT 2009

St Editha's Parochial Church Council invites you to Burns Night at Little Onn Hall on Saturday 31st January at 7.30 p.m. Tickets, £25 each, are available from Michael Evans on 822586.

CHURCH and VILLAGE

The deadline for contributions to the February issue of the parish magazine is Wednesday.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Badminton is on Monday at 8 p.m.

Rachel Millington's art classes continue on Tuesday at 7.30 p.m.

The mothers' and toddlers' group meets on Wednesday from 10  a.m. until 12 noon. New mums, dads and babies are always welcome. Contact Jo Sabin on 780315.

The Church Eaton & District Dog Training Society continues its classes on Wednesday at 7  p.m.. The society is Kennel Club listed and welcomes all dogs from beginner to competition standard. Further details from Doug & Sandra Webb on 01785 823317.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

There is a multi-skills PE festival for years 1 and 2 on Tuesday.
Reception places for the school are available from September 2009.  They are full time and for the academic year in which your child becomes 5 years old; that is for children born between 1^st September 2004 and 31^st August 2005.  A qualified teacher and a qualified nursery nurse staff the class.  The purpose built classroom is well equipped, with its own outdoor play area. Admission forms are available from the school (01785 823089) or from the Pupil Support Unit, Tipping Street, Stafford (01785 223121).

ROYAL OAK

The Christmas pub quiz, presented by Ian Watkins, was won by 'The Indecisives' comprising Mark Cockle, Tim Noble, Karen and Granville Reeves.

FLOWER FESTIVAL 2009

There is a meeting of the flower festival committee at Bayfield on Monday at 8 p.m.

VILLAGE CHOIR

The choir meets in the church on Wednesday at 8 p.m.

VILLAGE BLOG

The blog was set up for residents to give their views about village matters and it is being well used for this purpose. So far there are comments about the proposed village sign, church floodlighting and a great deal of support for Glebelands' goalposts. The blog can be accessed through the Church Eaton website at www.churcheaton.org.uk

CHURCH EATON NEWS

If anyone in the village would like to take over the writing of this news column, contact Justin on 824788 or directly to The Staffordshire Newsletter on 270524.    

No 61 1^st – 7^th January 2009

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

Sunday is the feast of the Epiphany when the Worship Group will lead a Family Service at 10 am.
For those who would like to explore their spirituality further this year, the Church is offering a special programme on alternate Tuesday evenings from 20th January through till Easter. The course, led by Peter Ashby, will be held in the village Institute. Further details from Peter on 780210 or the churchwardens - Daphne Rutherford on 823958 and Michael Evans on 822586.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Badminton resumes on Monday at 8  p.m..

The Mothers' and Toddlers' Group meets on Wednesday from 10 am until 12 noon. New mums, dads and babies are always welcome. Contact Jo Sabin on 780315.
Church Eaton & District Dog Training Society also resumes its classes on Wednesday at 7  p.m.. The society is Kennel Club listed and welcomes all dogs from beginner to competition standard. Further details from Doug & Sandra Webb on 01785 823317.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

The school reopens for the pupils on Tuesday.

THE ROYAL OAK

The pub will be open on New Year's Day from 12 noon until 4  p.m..

Karen Reeves will present the pub quiz on Monday at 8  p.m.. The Christmas quiz was won by Mark Cockle, Tim Noble, Karen and Granville Reeves. On Wednesday there is a fish ‘n’ chips evening from 6.30  p.m..

PARISH COUNCIL

There is a parish council meeting on Tuesday in the school at 7.30  p.m..

CHURCH EATON NEWS

The Staffordshire Newsletter has apologised for omitting Church Eaton News from this week’s edition of their dreadful newspaper. 

 

No 59    18th – 24^th December 2008

ST EDITHA’S CHURCH
On Sunday the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby will distribute Holy Communion at 8 p.m. and officiate at the Christmas Carol service at 6.30 p.m..
There is Midnight Mass in St Editha's at 11.30 p.m. on Christmas Eve and services on Christmas Day at St Mary and All Saints, Bradley (11 a.m.); St Matthew's, Derrington (9.30 a.m.) and St Giles, Haughton (11 a.m.).

Today there is a funeral service at 1 p.m. for Colin Stanley before proceeding to Stafford Crematorium. Condolences are extended to his wife Annie and family Lizzie, Joe and Dan. A reception will be held afterwards at the Royal Oak.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

There is no badminton, toddlers' group meeting or dog classes for the next two weeks. The Institute is booked for various private Christmas functions over this period.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

Today (Thursday) is the last day of the Autumn term and there are discos for the younger children from 6 p.m. until 7 p.m. and for the older children from 7 p.m. until 8 p.m.. The school opens again for pupils on Tuesday 6th January.

ROYAL OAK

Ian Watkins will present a special Christmas edition of the pub quiz on Monday at 8 p.m.. The last quiz was won yet again by the Flatlanders (Ian and Joan Watkins; Carol and Rob Page). They also picked the correct key to open the jackpot box. The quizmaster was Alan Poulson.
The Royal Oak is open on Christmas Eve from 5 p.m. until 10.30 p.m.; Christmas Day from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. and all day on Boxing Day from 12noon until 11 p.m..

PLANNING APPEAL DECISION

The fifth appeal against the refusal of planning permission for 6 Smithy Croft, held on November 25, has also been dismissed. The proposed development was deemed unacceptable by an inspector appointed by the Secretary of State and Local Government. Previous appeals date from 2004 and this latest verdict is a triumph for those villagers who have vigorously opposed the granting of planning permission for the site.

MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the post box tomorrow from 2.55 p.m. until 4.20 p.m..

CHURCH EATON NEWS

Justin O'Doherty would like to offer a special thanks to those who help him to compile Church Eaton's community news throughout the year.

Have a Wonderful Christmas.

No 58 11^th – 17^th December 2008

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday at 10.15am there is Family Communion with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby. Sunday school is in the Institute at 10am when the children will be rehearsing for next Sunday's carol service.
Everyone in the village should have received a message by hand from the Parochial Church Council with notification of Christmas services and information about the work of the church in caring for the whole of the village community throughout the year and next year.
VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Badminton is on Monday at 8pm and there is festive story telling at Apeton Smallholdings at 8.30pm.

The toddlers' Christmas party is on Wednesday from 10am until noon when Santa Claus will make an appearance.

Also on Wednesday there are the usual dog classes at 7pm.
CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

The Nativity Play will be performed in St Editha's church today at 1.30pm and tomorrow at 6.30pm with refreshments afterwards in the school.

The pupils are having their Christmas party on Tuesday from lunchtime onwards. Also on Tuesday some members from the British Trust of Conservation Volunteers (BTCV) will be working in the school grounds.

Years 3 and 4 are going to see The Arabian Nights at the New Victoria Theatre in Stoke on Wednesday.

VILLAGE CHOIR

After the concert at Little Onn Hall last Wednesday the choir is now rehearsing for the St Editha carol service which is on December 21.

CHILDREN'S PLAYGROUND

A netball hoop will be installed in the playground in the new year.

THE ROYAL OAK

Santa's Grotto is open from 5pm to 6.30pm on Tuesday and this will be followed by carol singing outside the pub at 7pm. Jack and Jill's pre-school playgroup Christmas raffle will be drawn after the singing. Among the many prizes are 6 tickets to watch Peter Pan at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, M&S vouchers and tickets for tobogganing and ice skating. Raffle  tickets are £1 each.
CHURCH EATON GOLF SOCIETY

The society's annual dinner, organised by Samantha Carless, was held last Friday at The Moathouse in Acton Trussell. There were speeches by Huw Jones, Eric Rodgers, Rob Carless and Chris Lees. Ken Carless was named as Player of the Year.
HIGHWAYS COMMUNITY TEAM

A highways' community team has been allocated to visit rural areas at various intervals during the year to undertake small jobs which will maintain facilities and attempt to prevent major problems occurring. Under this new initiative, a team has recently spent 5 days in the village clearing drainage channels, replacing road signs and removing leaves and weeds. Residents should let the Parish Council know of any jobs which may need attention.
SCHOOL PARKING

The Parish Council is aware that the congestion outside the school in the morning and afternoon, especially during the winter months, has got worse and they are attempting to see if there is a solution to the problem. Meanwhile parents are still encouraged to park in the Glebelands car park and walk with their children to the school.
CHURCH EATON NEWS

Your local Newsletter correspondent is Justin O'Doherty of Hanwell Cottage (824788)

No 57  4^th – 10^th December 2008

CHRISTMAS CAROL CONCERT   

The annual Carol Concert is on Wednesday at Little Onn Hall. Tickets from Michael Evans (822586) or Daphne (823958).

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

The Worship Group will lead a Family Service on Sunday at 10 a.m.
The Rev John Davis would like to thank everyone in the benefice for his farewell gift of over £250 which was presented to him at the joint churches' meeting with the archdeacon at the village institute recently. He is donating the gift to the St John's Ambulance Association.
The award-winning churchyard gardening team is looking for a natural history enthusiast to survey the flowers, birds, bats and butterflies in the churchyard. Contact Michael on 822586.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Badminton is on Monday at 8 pm. The second of Rachel Millington's art classes is on Tuesday at 7.30 pm. The toddlers will be engaged in Christmas preparations on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until 12 noon. Dog classes continue at 7 p.m. also on Wednesday.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

Rehearsals for the school Nativity Play take place this week. On Friday morning there is a concert for the pupils by the Staffordshire peripatetic music teachers entitled 'Music from around the World'. After school on Friday the First Aid Course for years 4, 5 and 6 continues and there is the usual Football Club for years 1, 2 and 3.
At the last Governors' meeting Ralph Howarth was re-elected as chairman and Dawn Jones was re-elected as vice chairman.

ROYAL OAK

The next pub quiz is on Monday at 8 p.m. with a possible jackpot of over £70. The last quiz was won by the Freelanders with Ian Watkins, Carol and Rob Page, and Nick Lakin. Les Beattie compiled and presented the questions.

CIVIC AMENITY

The next civic amenity visit is on Saturday at the Royal Oak car park from 9 a.m. until 10 a.m.
Please wait with items for disposal until they are collected by the refuse team.

PUBLIC INQUIRY

Eighteen people from the village attended last week's public inquiry into the planning appeals for 6 Smithy Croft. The final verdict will be announced in January.

VILLAGE SIGN

If anyone missed the original workshops and would like to be involved, it is possible to catch up by visiting youtube.com and searching under Church Eaton where there is a video produced by Sean McDougall and some of the villagers. If you want to make comments, either send them to Bob Thacker of Oaklands Studios (823663) or visit the Church Eaton website at churcheaton.org.uk where there is a village sign blog set up by John Edwards.

SCRABBLERS and STORYTELLERS

These two village groups are having their Christmas social on Saturday at Swan Court with hosts,
Bob and Maggie Jeays.

MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the post box tomorrow from 2.55 p.m. to 4.20 p.m.

CHURCH EATON NEWS

Your local correspondent is Justin O'Doherty of Hanwell Cottage (824788).

No 56   27^th November – 3^rd December 2008

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

No religious services at St Editha's on Sunday, but there is a United service at St Matthew's Church in Derrington at 9.30 a.m. with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby.
Bell ringing practice is this evening at 8 p.m.

CHURCH and VILLAGE

The December/January edition of the parish magazine is available this weekend. It costs 30p or £3 annually. To order a copy contact 824788. For the past two years the parish magazine has been printed and collated by volunteers from Church Eaton who will now hand over the task to Bradley for the next two years. The editorship is still with David Beech on 780678.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Badminton is on Monday at 8 p.m.
On Wednesday the toddlers' group meets from 10 a.m. until 12 noon and the dog classes are at 7 p.m. as usual.
And there is an Institute meeting in 5 Oak Close at 8pm on Wednesday.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

On Friday there are auditions in school for the regional heats of a BBC TV programme called 'Off By Heart' which wants primary school pupils to engage with learning and reciting poetry. After school there is a First Aid course for years 4, 5 and 6 and football for years 1, 2 and 3. Also on Friday at 6.30pm there is the school Christmas Fayre.

ROYAL OAK

Christmas bookings are now being taken. Contact Mark on (01785) 823078. There is a Fish and Chips evening on Wednesday from 6.30 p.m. onwards.

VILLAGE CHOIR

Music for Christmas with conductor Paul Weaver continues in the church on Wednesday at 8 p.m.

CHRISTMAS CAROL CONCERT

The annual Carol Concert at Little Onn Hall is on Wednesday 10th December. Tickets, £10 for adults and £5 for children, are available from Michael Evans on 822586 or Daphne on 823958.

PARISH COUNCIL

The next meeting of the parish council is on Tuesday at 7.30 p.m. in the school.

FLOWER FESTIVAL 2009

The flower festival committee meets on Monday at Bayfield at 8 p.m.

No 55            20^th – 26^th November 2008

HARVEST AUCTION RAISES £1390

The Harvest Auction at The Royal Oak on 1^st November raised £1390 which will be divided between St Editha's church; the Sunday school; the churchyard gardeners; the village school; Church Eaton toddlers and Jack and Jill's pre-school playgroup. Congratulations to everybody involved.

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

At 10 a.m. on Sunday there is Family Communion with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby and Sunday School for the children in the Institute.
Bell ringing is this evening at 8 p.m..

Yet more deserved recognition for the St Editha gardeners - they have received a Gold Award and a Nature Friendly Prize with a £30 cheque from the Diocesan Best Kept Churchyard Competition. Earlier this month they came third in the Community Section of the Stafford Borough Green Awards. The team is Charlie and Nancy Getley; Roy Billington; Jan Lauder; Alan and Colin Richards.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Badminton is on Monday at 8 p.m. On Wednesday the toddlers meet from 10 a.m. until 12 noon and the dog classes are at 7 p.m.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

There is a Governors' Meeting today at 6.30 p.m.
Football practice continues after school tomorrow for years 1, 2 and 3.

On Tuesday years 1 and 2 are going to a TOP activities festival at King Edward VI High School

Headmaster, Mike Winkle, would like to thank the Bradley Trust for its latest donation to the school.

ROYAL OAK

The pub quiz is on Monday at 8 p.m. with a jackpot of £70 if the correct key to the money box is selected.
Les Beattie compiled and presented the questions to the last quiz which was won by Mark Cockle and Dave Trigg of the 'Doo Badleys'.
In future the pub will close at 9 p.m. on Sundays.

CHURCH EATON YOUTH STUDY GROUP

There is a meeting of the study group this evening at 7 p.m. for one hour at 5 Ashley Croft.

VILLAGE CHOIR

Christmas music rehearsals continue in the church at 8 p.m. on Wednesday.

PARISH COUNCIL

The parish council is looking again at the current flooding problems in the area and will be writing to all interested parties in a bid to resolve the situation.
The time for interested parties to quote for the refurbishment of the village fingerposts has been extended. Please contact the clerk, Diane Key by post, telephone or email by 12 noon on Friday 28th November in time for a decision to be made at the next parish council meeting on December 2.

PUBLIC INQUIRY

The inquiry into the planning appeals for 6 Smithy Croft is at 10 a.m. on Tuesday at the Civic Offices in Stafford.

MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the post box tomorrow from 2.55 p.m. to 4.20 p.m..

VILLAGE BLOG

The new blog is accessible through the village website at www.churcheaton.org.uk

CHURCH EATON NEWS

If you want free publicity in the Newsletter for events and activities in the village, send your details to Justin

O'Doherty on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com

No 54     13^th – 19^th November 2008 

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is Holy Communion at 8 am and a Celtic Service at 6.30 pm both with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby.
Bell ringing practice is this evening at 8 pm.

CHURCH and VILLAGE

Tomorrow (Fri) is the deadline for contributions to the parish magazine.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

There is an Institute Committee meeting in the hall Thursday evening at 8 pm. Badminton is on Monday at 8 pm. The toddlers' group meets on Wednesday from 10 am to 12 noon and the dog classes are also on Wednesday at 7 pm.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

It is mufti day on Friday and, as a forfeit, pupils are asked to bring a tombola prize for the Christmas Fayre on November 28. On Tuesday the school council will be collating traffic information that parents and pupils have collected for a school travel plan.

ROYAL OAK

Jack and Jill's Pre-School invites you to a Christmas Shopping Evening at the pub on Tuesday from 8 pm to 10 pm. There will be books, cards, jewellery, beauty products, Christmas foodstuffs, cakes and ale. Entry is free. And on Wednesday there is a Stew and Dumplings Evening from 6.30 pm onwards.

VILLAGE CHOIR

More voices needed. Come and join our rehearsals of Christmas carols in the church on Wednesday at 8 pm.

TEA and CHAT GROUP

The next meeting is on Monday at Mrs Lapworth's house.

STORYTELLING

The storytellers meet on Wednesday at 8.30 pm in Hanwell Cottage.

CHURCH EATON GOLF SOCIETY

Last Saturday's competition at Stafford Castle Golf Course was won by Ken Carless with 43 pts; second was Steve Caplan with 33 pts and third was Rob Carless with 31 pts.

NEIGHBOURHOOD and RURAL WATCH BROADCAST

This is an appeal for information from the residents of Church Eaton. At around 1.45 pm on Thursday 6th November, two males in an R reg silver Mondeo were disturbed attempting to break into a property in Millwich. When they were leaving their car collided with a skip which damaged the front driver's side of the vehicle. The only description of the males is that the passenger was wearing a white woollen hat. They had also been seen earlier acting suspiciously in Apeton. Contact Staffordshire Police on 0300 123 4455.

MALTHOUSE LANE

In order to alleviate the problems of speeding traffic and heavy vehicles using Malthouse Lane, the Highways' Officer has agreed to arrange a traffic and speed count and to install 30 mph repeater signs. 'Unsuitable for HGV' signs will also be erected at each end of the lane.

VILLAGE WEBSITE and BLOG

The new village blog can be accessed through the Church Eaton website at www.churcheaton.org.uk

CHURCH EATON NEWS

If you want free publicity in the Newsletter for events or activities in the village, send details to Justin O'Doherty on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com

No 52   30^th October – 5^th November 2008

 ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is a Family Service at 10 a.m. with the Worship Group.
There is a Joint Review Meeting of the members of all 4 PCCs with the archdeacon, the Venerable Godfrey Stone, in the village Institute at 7.30 p.m. on Monday. At the meeting there will be a presentation to the Rev John Davis who is leaving to begin a new ministry at St Mary's in Stafford.
Bell ringing practice is this evening at 8 p.m.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

There is a Ladies Fashion Extravaganza tomorrow from 7.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m. with 10% discount on selected items. Contact Rose on 822879 or Michelle on 604874.

Badminton is cancelled on Monday.

On Wednesday the toddlers' group meets from 10 a.m. to 12 noon and the weekly dog training class is at 7 p.m.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

The school reopens for pupils on Monday after the half-term break.

THE ROYAL OAK

Dare to wear Pink tomorrow (Fri) and raise money for Cancer Research UK. Jane Stockhall has already raised over £200 for this charity by taking part in the Run 10k 2008 at Weston Park recently.

The annual Harvest Auction is on Saturday at 7.30 p.m. Donations are still welcome for this event which raises money for local charities and village groups.

On Wednesday there is a Fish and Chips evening from 6.30 p.m. for which it is essential to book. Contact Mark on 823078.

VILLAGE CHOIR

The choir meets in the church on Wednesday at 8 p.m.

FLOWER FESTIVAL 2009

There is a meeting of the committee at Bayfield this evening at 8 p.m.

BOX OF DELIGHTS

This art exhibition at the Ancient High House in Stafford begins on Tuesday until November 29 and features works by three Staffordshire artists, one of whom is our very own Bob Thacker of Oaklands Studios.

CHURCH EATON GOLF SOCIETY

Last week's competition at Boldmere Golf Club, Sutton Coldfield was won by Steve Caplan (on a countback) with 35 pts; second was Ken Carless also with 35 pts and Mark Edwards was third with 32 pts. The sixth and final tournament of the year will be held at Stafford Castle Golf Course in November - the date to be announced.
 

No 51:  23^rd – 29^th October 2008

FLOODING PROBLEMS

The Highways Department has been alerted to the recent flooding, particularly along High Street, and Mike Webb has been to see the problems for himself. The village drains are to be cleaned and there may also be the need for watercourses in the out-lying areas of the village to be de-silted to improve drainage of flood water. The department will consider this in the near future following consultation with landowners.

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

Family Communion is on Sunday at 10am with the Rev John Davis. As it is mid-term break there is no Sunday School for the children.
Bell ringing is this evening at 8pm.

CHURCH and VILLAGE

The November issue of the parish magazine will be available from Wednesday. It costs 30p or £3 annually. To order a copy contact 824788.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

There is badminton on Monday at 8pm.

The toddlers' group meets from 10am until noon on Wednesday. Older brothers and sisters are welcome to attend this week as well.

Dog training classes continue at 7pm also on Wednesday.
To hire the Institute contact Carol on 823067.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

Cookery club continues today after school for years 5 and 6.  Football for years 1, 2 and 3 is tomorrow.

Also tomorrow there is an Ecumenical Day for the pupils when the Question Mark Theatre Company will conduct workshops using bible stories with years 5 and 6. There will then be a performance for the whole school.
Mid-term break is from 27th to 31st October inclusive.

THE ROYAL OAK

The fortnightly quiz is on Monday at 8pm. The last quiz, which was co-presented by Carol Page and Joan Watkins, was won by 'The Doo Badleys' consisting of Dave Trigg and Mark Cockle.

VILLAGE SIGN

The first workshop in the Institute on 12^th October was quite well attended and there are already some very good suggestions for a new village sign. In order for more people to have their say, further consultations will take place today (Thurs) at the Royal Oak school-coach stop at 3.45pm for local 11-18 year old students; tomorrow in the primary school at lunchtime for the pupils there and on Monday in the Royal Oak for customers from 7.30pm. The project leader is Bob Thacker on 823663.

VILLAGE CHOIR

The choir meets in the church on Wednesday at 8pm.

NEIGHBOURHOOD and RURAL WATCH

Mandy Corser has reported recent thefts, in and around Church Eaton, of power tools, a large garden lawn mower and some IT equipment. Once again we are asked to report suspicious behaviour, especially noting car registration numbers if relevant, and then contacting the local police. The new single non-emergency number for Staffordshire Police is 0300 123 4455.

VILLAGE FINGERPOSTS

It is not too late to quote for the refurbishment of the six fingerposts. This will be decided at the next Parish Council meeting on November 4. Contact the clerk on 01785 822723 or at diane@fellpony.me.uk with any quotes by 12 noon on Friday 31st October.

MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the post box tomorrow (Fri) from 2.55pm to 4.20pm.

CHURCH EATON NEWS

If you want publicity in the Newsletter for events or activities in the village, send details to Justin O'Doherty on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com    

No 50          16^th – 22^nd October 2008

WEEDS * LITTER * DOG-FOULING *

The BKV judges' comments published this week stated that the village well deserved to be adjudged the Best Kept Small Village in the Stafford district. but there were criticisms of weeds, litter and dog-fouling in certain areas which would need to be addressed if we are to hold on to the title next year. A summary of the comments is posted on the Parish Council notice board and on this website.

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

This Sunday there is Holy Communion at 8am and a Celtic service at 6.30pm both with the Rev John Davis.
Sadly, John Davis will be leaving us to begin a new ministry at St Mary's in Stafford at the end of this month. If you would like to contribute to a gift from the four parishes to mark his work among us, give your donation to one of the church wardens, or any PCC member, by Sunday 26th October for a presentation on November 3.
Bell ringers' practice is today at 8pm.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Badminton is on Monday at 8pm.

The next story telling session is at Ana Lines' house in Stafford on Monday at 8.30pm. Contact Maggie on 822718 for details of this.

The toddlers' group meets on Wednesday from 10am to 12 noon. Dog training classes are also on Wednesday at 7pm.

To hire the institute contact Carol on 823067. Please note that new fees will be applicable from January 1.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

Cookery club is after school today from 3.30pm to 5pm and there is football tomorrow from 3.30pm to 4.30pm.

The pupils are having a multi-cultural day on Monday with a Bhangra Culture and Music Festival sponsored by the PTA.

On Wednesday there is a pupils' harvest lunch by County Catering.

VILLAGE CHOIR

The choir meets in the church on Wednesday at 8pm to begin rehearsals for Christmas carol services.

YOUNG PEOPLE'S STUDY GROUP

There is a meeting this evening at 7.30pm at 5 Ashley Croft.

RUN 10K 2008

Jane Stockhall is taking part in this 10 kilometres race at Weston Park on Sunday to raise money for Cancer Research. Don't forget to sponsor her.

CHURCH EATON GOLF SOCIETY

The 5th tournament is on Sunday at Boldmere Golf Club, Sutton Coldfield beginning at 10.30am.

After four competitions Kenneth Carless has a 10 point advantage:
 

	15 Mar	19 Apr	27 Jun	27 Sep
Kenneth Carless	39	39	32	38	148
Steve Caplan	38	29	38	33	138
Robert Carless	34	21	38	43	136
Eric Rodgers	16	21	15	22	74
David Hill	23	22	29		74
Chris Lees	31	22	0	21	74
Carl Bellamy			35	34	69
Richard Thorneycroft	41		27		68
Mark Edwards			30	36	66
John Wrotchford	22	24		20	66
Simon Aries	39	22			61
Nigel Turner		20		21	41
Huw (Tigger) Jones	18	9		10	37
Andy Hartshorne			24		24

CHURCH EATON NEWS

If you want free publicity in the Newsletter for events or activities in the village, send details to Justin O'Doherty on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com

 

No 49          9^th – 15^th October 2008

DESIGN   A   VILLAGE   SIGN

The first of a series of workshops to design a village sign is on Sunday from 2 pm to 5 pm in the Institute. Come along and have your say about the design and location of a proposed village sign. The project has the backing of the Parish Council and financial support from Festival funds and Staffordshire County Council. There is free tea and biscuits and a chance to meet other villagers. The project manager is Bob Thacker (823663).

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is Family Communion at 10.15 am with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby and the children meet for Sunday School in the Institute at 10 am. For more information about Sunday School contact Julie on 823049 or Maureen on 823844.
Bell ringing practice is tonight at 8 pm.

CHURCH and VILLAGE

Tuesday is the deadline for contributions to the parish magazine. The editor is David Beech on 780678.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Badminton is on Monday at 8 pm. The toddlers meet on Wednesday from 10 am until 12 noon. Also on Wednesday are dog classes at 7 pm. To hire the Institute contact Carol on 823067.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

An informal meeting to discuss pupils' progress will take place on Wednesday between 3.45 pm and 6.30 pm. There will not be a set time for interviews.
Cookery club for years 5 and 6 continues after school today and football for years 1, 2 and 3 is after school tomorrow.

THE ROYAL OAK

The next pub quiz is on Monday at 8 pm with guest quizmaster Ian Watkins. The last quiz was won yet again by Rob and Carol Page, and Ian and Joan Watkins of 'The Flatlanders'.
Donations are now being gratefully received for the Annual Harvest Auction on November 1. Contact Mark on 823078

MOBILE LIBRARY
The library van will be located by the post box tomorrow from 2.55 pm to 4.20 pm.

No 48       2^nd – 8^th October 2008 

JUMBO CLEARANCE SALE!

Last chance to buy Church Eaton scarecrow mugs and festival stationery. Mugs are now £3.50 each (from £5.99). Festival greeting cards with envelopes are 40p each or 10 for £3.00 (were £4.00). Notelets /post cards are 30p each or 10 for £2.00 (were £2.50). Available from Michael Evans on 822586.

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

There is a Harvest Festival at 11 am on Sunday with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby, followed by a Bring and Share Lunch in the Institute.
Bell ringing practice begins again this evening at 8 pm.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Badminton is on Monday at 8 pm.

On Wednesday the toddlers' group meets from 10 am until noon. Jo Sabin is the new chairman and will be running the group from now on. Contact her on 780315.

Dog training classes are also on Wednesday at 7 pm.
To hire the Institute, contact Carol on 823067.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

The school's Harvest Festival is tomorrow at 6.30 pm in St Editha's church. Pupils should be there by 6.15 pm in school uniform with a small basket of foodstuff which will be distributed to pensioners in the school catchment area.

Last week the pupils raised £47 towards Macmillan Cancer Relief. Well done everybody!

PARISH COUNCIL

There is a meeting of the Parish Council in the school at 7.30 pm on Tuesday. The clerk is Diane Key on 822723 or email diane@fellpony.me.uk

VILLAGE CHOIR

The choir meets in the church on Wednesday at 8 pm.

FLOWER FESTIVAL 2009

Tonight's meeting at Bayfield has been postponed until October 30th.

MACMILLAN COFFEE MORNING

Over £600 was raised again this year including the £47 from pupils at the school. Hosts Ruth Wharton and Karen Smith would like to thank everybody who supported the event in any way.

TEA and CHAT GROUP

The next meeting is on Monday at Mrs Jones's house.

CHURCH EATON GOLF SOCIETY

The winner of the 4th Tournament, played at the Shropshire Golf Club on Saturday, was Rob Carless (43 pts). Second was Ken Carless (38 pts) and third was Mark Edwards (36 pts). The wooden spoon went to Huw Jones and the most improved player was Eric Rodgers. The next match is on October 19.

MUSIC APPRECIATION

The group reconvenes at Innisfree on Wednesday at 8 pm. Contact Michael Faarup on 824606.

CHURCH EATON NEWS

Any activities or events in the village that need reports or publicity in the Newsletter should be sent to Justin O'Doherty on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com

No. 47          25^th September – 1^st October 2008

HELP CREATE A HUGE STIR

Church Eaton's contribution to the World's Biggest Coffee Morning for Macmillan cancer support is tomorrow (Fri) in the village Institute from 10am until 1pm. Please support this in any way you can. Cake donations and raffle prizes are very welcome, especially if you cannot attend the event. The organisers are Ruth Wharton 824592 and Karen Smith 823977.   

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

At 10 am on Sunday there is Family Communion with the Rev John Davis and Sunday school for the children in the Institute 

PARISH SECRETARY WANTED

The church seeks a computer-literate volunteer to assist the Rev Peter Ashby with some parish administration. This will include helping to produce the weekly pew sheets, compiling parish information for the magazines and diary co-ordination. Contact Peter Ashby on 780201 or speak to one of the church wardens.

CHURCH and VILLAGE

The October edition of the parish magazine will be published on Wednesday. It costs 30p or £3 annually. To order a copy contact 824788.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

There is badminton on Monday at 8 pm. On Wednesday the toddlers' group meets from 10 am until noon and there are the usual dog training classes at 7 pm.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

Swimming lessons commence today (Thurs) for class 3 at St Lawrence, Gnosall swimming pool and the Cookery Club also starts today after school at 3.30 pm for years 5 & 6. Both activities continue throughout the term until December 4. Football for years 1, 2 & 3 continues tomorrow from 3.30 pm until 4.30 pm.

VILLAGE CHOIR

The village choir meets in the church on Wednesday at 8 pm.

THE ROYAL OAK

The fortnightly pub quiz is on Monday hosted by Mark Cockle. The last quiz was won by The Flatlanders comprising Ian and Joan Watkins and Rob and Carol Page.

There is a fish and chips evening on Wednesday from 6.30 pm

MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the post box from 2.55p, until 4.20 pm tomorrow.

CLEARANCE SALE

SCARECROW MUGS: £3.50 each (were £5.99);

GREETING CARDS (folded with envelopes): £3 for 10 (were £4);

NOTE/POST CARDS: £2 for 10 (were £2.50).

From Michael Evans 822586.

CHURCH EATON NEWS

Any activities or events in the village that need reports or publicity in the Newsletter should be sent to Justin O'Doherty on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com

No. 46 18^th – 24^th September 2008

VILLAGE FESTIVAL LARGESSE

Last week Festival money was distributed to various village groups and local charities.

St Editha's Church received £1000; the Village Institute £1250 and Church Eaton School PTA £750.

Money was also given to the Sunday school (£50);the Toddlers' group (£75); Jack & Jill's playgroup (£75); Glebelands’ sports (£100); Gnosall 1st Responders (£150); St John's Ambulance (£50) and Newport Gymnasts (£35).

A grant of £300 was allocated towards the designing and planning of a new village sign, which should begin next month.

ST EDITHA’S CHURCH

On Sunday there is Holy Communion at 8 a.m. and a Celtic service at 6.30 p.m. both with the rector, Rev Peter Ashby.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

After its summer recess, badminton resumes on Monday at 8 p.m. On Wednesday the toddlers' group meets from 10 a.m. to 12 noon and dog classes continue at 7 p.m. There is an Institute Committee meeting on Wednesday at 8 p.m. in Oak Close.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

The football club for years 1, 2 and 3 is on Fridays after school from 3.30 p.m. until 4.30 p.m. A cookery club for years 5 and 6 starts on September 25th from 3.30 p.m. until 5 p.m. There is a charge to cover the cost of ingredients. The PTA annual general meeting is on Wednesday at 7 p.m. in the school hall.

MACMILLAN COFFEE MORNING

This year's event is in the Institute on Friday 26th September from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Donations of cakes and raffle prizes would be gratefully received. Contact Ruth Wharton on 824592 or Karen Smith on 823977.

STORY TELLING

The monthly story telling sessions recommence on Monday at 8.30 p.m. in 5 Swan Court. New members are welcome to join. Contact Bob or Maggie on 822718.

VILLAGE CHOIR

The choir meets on Wednesday in the church at 8 p.m.

HANGING BASKETS COMPETITION RESULTS

This year's competition was judged by Mr & Mrs Williams of Weston. The winner for the second year in succession was Roy Billington of Heath Mynd. Joint second were Paul & Julie Jones of 5 St Editha's Court and Irene Bennett of Malt Shovel Farm. Each will receive a national gardening voucher sponsored by Gwen Hitchens of Apeton.

NEIGHBOURHOOD & RURAL WATCH

Watch co-ordinator, Mandy Corser, has reported to the Parish Council that thefts of farm and equestrian property are still occurring in the area. We are asked once again to be vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour and car numbers, if relevant, to the police. Please note the new non-emergency number for Staffordshire Police has been changed to 0300 123 4455.

CHURCH EATON NEWS

Any activities or events in the village that need reports or publicity in the Staffordshire Newsletter should be sent to Justin O'Doherty on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com

No. 43  28^th August – 3^rd September 2008

PUB QUIZ TEAM DIDN’T DO BADLY

Brainy locals Mark Cockle, Dave Trigg, Alan Poulson and Nigel Roberts together form a pub quiz team called ‘The Doo Badleys’ that doesn’t quite live up to its name. As well as winning last week’s quiz at The Royal Oak, they also managed to pick the correct key to unlock the £115 jackpot and so they walked off with a modest £134. Not bad, eh?

The quiz was compiled and presented by the grand inquisitor, Les Beattie.

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

There are no church services in St Editha's this Sunday, but there is a United service at St Giles Church in Haughton at 10am with the Rev Geoffrey Smith.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

The mothers' and toddlers' group meets every Wednesday morning from 10am to 12 noon. The group caters for babies through to pre-school children. The children play in a secure environment with a wide variety of toys and activities. The charge is £1 which includes a drink and biscuit for both child and carer. Contact Stella on 841850.

Dog training classes every Wednesday at 7pm offer instruction for dogs and owners at different levels. New members are welcome. Contact Doug or Sandra on 01785 823317. 

 *Call Carol on 823067 for Institute bookings. 

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

The pupils return to school on Tuesday.

Parents are reminded that there is an increase of 10p for school dinners with effect from the new term. Meals for the week will cost £9.25 (£1.85 per day). Cheques to be made payable to Staffs County Council. 

THE ROYAL OAK

The fortnightly pub quiz is on Monday at 8pm.

There is a Fish and Chips evening on Wednesday from 6.30pm onwards for which it is advisable to book. Contact Mark on 823078. 

PARISH COUNCIL

The next Parish Council meeting is on Tuesday at 7.30pm in the school. For more information contact the clerk, Diane Key on 01785 822723 or email diane@fellpony.me.uk

VILLAGE CHOIR

After the Summer break the choir resumes weekly practices in the church at 8pm on Wednesday. New members are always welcome. Contact Daphne on 823958. 

GOLDEN WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

Congratulations to Gwen and John Hitchens of Apeton who married 50 years ago on Saturday. 

CIVIC AMENITY VISIT

The second visit of the year will take place this Saturday (30^th Aug) at The Royal Oak car park from 9am until 10am.

 *Please note that rubbish must not be left for collection - anyone wishing to use the service must wait for the refuse vehicle to collect the items from them at the above venue during the stated times.

MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the post box tomorrow from 2.55pm to 4.20pm.

CHURCH EATON NEWS

Any activities or events in the village that need reports or publicity in the Newsletter should be sent to Justin

O'Doherty on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com  

No. 41  14^th – 20^th August 2008

GOALPOSTS FOR THE GLEBELANDS

A Campaign for Goalposts for the Glebelands has been initiated by a group of Church Eaton parents who are 

asking for a set of goalposts to be erected on the Glebelands sports' field for the young people in the village who are too old to use the children's playground. To find out more, or join the campaign, contact Martin Smith on 823977. 

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is Holy Communion at 8 a.m. with the Rev John Davis and a Celtic Service at 6.30 p.m. with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby.

There are still a few tickets left for Timeless Music in Honour of a Lady on Sunday at 12 noon in the church, but the lunch afterwards in the Institute is fully booked. The concert itself will feature early music played on crumhorns, gemshorns, sordunes, rackets, nakers and spinet recorders by the Longslade Consort. Tickets for the concert only are £5 and are available from Michael Evans on 822586 or Daphne on 823958.

STAFFORDSHIRE HISTORIC CHURCHES TRUST

The annual Ride and Stride to raise funds for the Staffordshire Historic Churches Trust will take place on 13th September. As usual, there will be a sponsored walk and a sponsored cycle ride. The churches, including St Editha's, will be open and manned to receive participants from other parishes. Half the proceeds go to SHCT and half to the church raising the money. Please support this event in any way you can.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

The toddlers meet every Wednesday morning from 10 a.m. to 12 noon throughout the Summer holidays and older brothers and sisters are welcome to come along too. Contact Stella on 841850.

Dog training classes continue on Wednesday at 7 p.m.

ROYAL OAK

The pub quiz on Monday at 8 p.m. will be compiled and presented by Les Beattie and there is a £105 jackpot available. The last quiz was won by The Optimists comprising Lesley and Neil Beaton and Carol and John Edwards.

There is a Pasta Evening on Wednesday from 6.30 p.m. onwards. 

PICTURE QUIZ

Don’t forget to have a go at the Picture Quiz. There are photographs of 24 Church Eaton residents to be identified. Entries are £1 and the receipts will be split with half as prizes and the other half divided between Katherine House and Macmillan Nurses. Pictures are available from The Royal Oak or from Les Beattie at 3 Parkers Close. The closing date is Monday.

MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the post box tomorrow from 2.55 p.m. to 4.20 p.m.  

VILLAGE WEBSITE

The slideshow of the recent Church Eaton Festival on our website at www.churcheaton.org.uk now contains 270 photographs showing the procession, the tug of war, worm charming, the firework display, street musicians and, of course, the scarecrows.

CHURCH EATON NEWS

Any activities or events in the village that need reports or publicity in the Newsletter should be sent to Justin O'Doherty on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com

No. 40     7^th – 13^th August 2008 

WELL DONE EVERYBODY !

Church Eaton has won the Best Kept Small Village in the Stafford district.
The competition encourages residents to work together to make their village a better place to live in and visit.

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

This Sunday there is Family Communion at 10.15 with the Rev John Davis.

On Saturday at 3pm the wedding will take place of Louise Kennerley of High Onn and Tom Whittick of Gnosall.

There are still some tickets left for the lunchtime concert on Sunday 17th August. The Longslade Consort will play early music in the church at 12 noon and there is lunch afterwards in the Village Institute. Tickets are £10 with lunch (£5 children) or £5 for the concert only and are available from Michael Evans on 822586 or Daphne on 823958. This function is to raise money for the Flower Festival next year

FLOWER FESTIVAL 2009

If you are interested in flower arranging, or supporting the festival in any way, contact Jo Sabin on 01785 780315. There is a meeting of the Flower Festival Committee this evening at 8pm in Bayfield.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

The hall has now been professionally decorated and a new kitchen floor has been laid. The final stage requires the decoration of the kitchen, toilets and bar and for this we need volunteers to offer a helping hand during the rest of August. Ring Sue Bach on 823085, who is directing operations.

The toddlers meet every Wednesday morning right through the holidays and older brothers and sisters are welcome to come along too. Contact Stella on 841850.

Dog training classes continue on Wednesday at 7pm.

THE ROYAL OAK

The MacMillan Nurses raffle prize of a barbecue was won by Alan Poulson. Landlord, Mark Stockhall, wishes to thank everyone who contributed to this fund-raising event.  

POETRY SOCIETY

There has been some positive response in the surrounding area to setting up a Poetry Society in September.
Is anyone in Church Eaton interested in joining?  Contact Justin on 824788.

PICTURE QUIZ

The Picture Quiz is now open. There are photographs of 24 people to be identified. Entries are £1 and the receipts will be split with half as prizes and the other half divided between Katherine House and Macmillan Nurses. Pictures are available from The Royal Oak or from Les Beattie at 3 Parkers Close. The closing date is 18^th August.

CHURCH EATON NEWS

Any activities or events in the village that need reports or publicity in the Newsletter should be sent to Justin

O'Doherty on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com  

No. 39  31^st July – 6^th August 2008

FESTIVAL REVIEW

There is a report from chairman, Trevor Houghton, and a slideshow of the recent Church Eaton Festival on our website at www.churcheaton.org.uk  Any photos of the event, especially scarecrows at the Church end of the village, would be gratefully received for the website. Photos can be sent by email, on disc, memory stick, USB storage etc. Any rewritable media will be returned. Pictures should be 500k max. Our webmaster is John Edwards.

Please DO make comments, favourable or otherwise, about the recent festival and suggestions for improvements for next year to any member of the Festival Committee. This year’s committee was Jenny Annis, Nick Ashby, Carl Bellamy, Chris Byford (Treasurer), Judy Davis, Carol Edwards, John Edwards, Michael Evans, Michael Faarup, Jacqui Hodgkinson, Trevor Houghton (Chairman), Ralph Howarth, Dawn Jones (Secretary), Justin O’Doherty, Karen Reeves, Daphne Rutherford, Mark Stockhall and Bob Thacker. There is an evaluation meeting in September – so make sure your views are represented.

SCARECROW TRAIL

The scarecrow trail was won by Chloe Edge from Stafford. Well done to her and a big thanks to everybody who took part.

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

There is a Family Service on Sunday at 10am with the Worship Group.

We are looking for volunteers - some to help the churchyard gardening team and others to survey the flowers, birds, bats and butterflies in the churchyard. Contact Charlie Getley on 01785 823639 or one of the church wardens.

Timeless Music in Honour of a Lady is the name of a concert which will be held in the church on Sunday 17th August at 12 noon to raise funds for a Flower Festival in 2009.

The concert will feature "The Longslade Consort", an early music group, who play crumhorns, gemshorns, sordunes, rackets, nakers, and spinet recorders and it will be followed by lunch in the Village Institute at 1.30pm.

Tickets are £10 including lunch or £5 for the concert only and are available from Michael Evans on 822586.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

The toddlers' group meet on Wednesday from 10am to 12 noon and will meet every Wednesday throughout the Summer holidays. Older brothers and sisters are welcome to join. Contact Stella on 841850.

THE ROYAL OAK

The next pub quiz is on Monday at 8pm with question master Nick Lakin and a roll-over jackpot of £95 to be won. The last quiz was won by The Flatlanders comprising Ian and Joan Watkins, and Rob and Carol Page.

On Wednesday there is a Fish and Chips Evening from 6.30pm and it is advisable to book. Contact 823078.

CHRISTIAN AID COLLECTION

The amount collected this year was £337.78. Daphne Rutherford and Rose Atkinson would like to thank everybody who contributed.

POETRY SOCIETY

Is anybody in the village, or the surrounding area, interested in forming, or joining, a poetry society? Contact Justin on 824788.

PARISH COUNCIL

The next meeting of the Parish Council is on Tuesday at 7.30pm in the school.

MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the post box tomorrow from 2.55pm to 4.20pm.  

CHURCH EATON NEWS

Any activities or events in the village that need reports or publicity in the Newsletter should be sent to Justin O'Doherty on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com

No.38  24^th – 30^th July 2008

SAVING OUR ICONIC RED KIOSKS

Our Parish Council has received confirmation from both BT and Stafford Borough Council Planning department that letters of objection have been received about the removal of the red telephone kiosks at Church Eaton and Marston.

BT wants to shut 9,000 of its 62,000 payphones, claiming that nearly two-thirds of them are unprofitable. Nationally the company’s plans have encountered opposition from hundreds of local campaigners who have grown attached to traditional red kiosks. Some of the concerns about the removal of boxes are based on the aesthetics of the red box rather than the communication service it provides.

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is Family Communion at 10am with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby.

On August 17 the PCC presents a concert in the church at 12 noon entitled 'Timeless Music in Honour of a Lady' to raise funds for a Flower Festival in 2009. The concert will feature The Longslade Consort, an early music group who play crumhorns, gemshorns, sordunes, rackets, nakers, and spinet recorders and it will be followed by lunch in the Village Institute at 1.30pm.

Tickets are £10 including lunch or £5 for the concert only and are available from Michael Evans on 822586.

CHURCH and VILLAGE

The next edition of the parish magazine, a double issue covering August and September, will be published on Wednesday. It costs 30p or £3 annually. To order a copy, contact 824788.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

There is an Institute meeting on Tuesday at 8pm at 5 Oak Close. The Toddlers' Group meet on Wednesday from 10am to 12 noon and will meet every Wednesday throughout the holidays. Older brothers and sisters are welcome to join. Contact Stella on 841850. Dog training is also on Wednesday at 7pm.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

Last Friday the John Evans’ Memorial Trophy was presented, by Les Beattie, to school leaver Amy Arkinstall for outstanding contribution throughout her school life. Congratulations Amy.

The head-teacher, Mike Winkle, wishes to thank the PTA for their hard work and commitment during the year.

During the holidays the hall will be redecorated and improvements made to the school paths.

The school reopens on Tuesday September 2nd.

VILLAGE CHOIR

After two successful concerts during the festival, the choir is having a Summer break and will resume on September 3 with a new repertoire and new members. Contact Daphne on 823958 if you are thinking of joining.

VILLAGE FINGERPOSTS

The six fingerposts need refurbishment and the Parish Council is anxious to retain the traditional wooden posts and not have them replaced by metal ones. If anyone has any views on the matter or would like to quote for the work, please contact the Clerk, Diane Key on 01785 822723 or email diane@fellpony.me.uk

CHARITY OPEN GARDEN

Chris and Barbara Boston would like to thank everybody who attended their open garden and barbecue last Saturday. They raised over £500 for muscular dystrophy. Well done to them.

GREYHOUND GAP

Bev Harper's stall at the festival raised funds for Greyhound Gap which rescues greyhounds and lurchers and finds them good homes. The correct answer to Henry the dog's birthday was 4th July and the winner was Jordon Fairfield of Chasetown.

PICTURE QUIZ

A few photographs of Church Eaton residents have been submitted, but more are needed to start the quiz. Contact Les Beattie or Ian Watkins or Mark Stockhall. Entries will be £1 and half the proceeds will be paid out in prizes and the other half donated to Katherine House Hospice.

VILLAGE WEBSITE - FESTIVAL REVIEW

There is a slideshow of the recent Church Eaton Festival and a report from chairman, Trevor Houghton, on our website at www.churcheaton.org.uk

No. 37  17^th –23^rd July 2008

“GREAT COMMUNITY SPIRIT”

The Festival Committee would like to sincerely thank everyone who sponsored, supported and took part in the Village Festival to make it the great success that it was. The Mayoress of Stafford thought there was “great community spirit in the village”. The Tug of War on Sunday morning attracted a very large crowd and was one of the highlights of the weekend. Particular mention should also be made of Staffordshire County Council who awarded us a full Community Arts Fund grant.

There is already a review of this year’s event from chairman, Trevor Houghton, on our website. Well done everybody.
In the words of 3 yr old twins Douglas and Daniel Hughes, it was “happy fun”.

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

This Sunday there is Holy Communion at 8am and a Celtic Service at 6.30pm, both with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby. The bell ringers practise this evening at 8pm.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Slimacise is today at 6.30pm. On Wednesday the mothers' and toddlers' group meets at 10am and dog training classes are at 7pm.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

This year’s SATs results are the best ever. What a brainy lot!. Years 2 and 6 are travelling to New Brighton today and will be ferrying across the Mersey to visit the Doctor Who exhibition and Spaceport. The school closes for the Summer holidays on Friday following a Leavers' Service at 2.40pm. This year sees the inaugural presentation of the John Evans Memorial Trophy awarded to a year 6 leaver who has made an outstanding contribution throughout school life. The name of the young person to receive it will be reported here next week, so watch this space.

THE ROYAL OAK

There is a pub quiz on Monday at 8pm with guest inquisitor Alan Poulson. The last quiz was won by ‘The New Bunch’ comprising Christine and Sean McDougall, Chris Lees, Karen and Granville Reeves. Rob Page asked the questions and the jackpot was not won, so Monday's prize stands at £90. 

SPECIAL OPEN GARDEN

Chris and Barbara Boston are opening their lovely garden and holding a BBQ at Rose Cottage, Apeton on Saturday from 3pm onwards in aid of muscular dystrophy. The entrance fee of £10 (£5 for under 15's) includes drinks as well as food.
Contact 01785 822817.

RACE for LIFE

Last week Julie Howarth of the Old Post Office, Lorna Hughes of Rose Cottage, and Jane Stockhall of Jasmine Cottage ran 5km at Shugborough in aid of Cancer Research UK and Kerrie Baker of Lockett's Barn took part in a similar event at Aldridge. Between them they raised over £1000 (and lost some pounds at the same time, no doubt). A great effort!

SCARECROW COMPETITION RESULTS

There were 74 scarecrows made this year. The traditional category was won by Kerrie and Paul Baker of Lockett's Barn with ‘The Wizard of Oz’ scarecrow; the Olympics category was won by Bea and Chris Byford of Ashley Croft for ‘Lord Seb Crow’ and the Anything Goes prize was awarded to Sue and Jeremy Bach of Willow Cottage for ‘Au Naturelle’.

Twelve other scarecrows were highly commended:- ‘Uncle Fred’ in the Churchyard; ‘Pinnochio’ at Palmer’s Croft; ‘Marco’ at Lissadell; ‘Ed Less’ at 2 Swan Court; ‘The Witch’ at 3 Swan Court; ‘Surf’s Up’ at 5 Swan Court; ‘My Crow Surgery’ at 6 Swan Court; ‘The Worm has Turned’ at Dolphin House; ‘Scari-koi Goes for Gold’ at Cherry Tree Cottage; ‘Spot the Difference’ at 8 Malthouse Lane; ‘Roboscarecrow’ at 4 Ashley Croft and ‘Popeye’ at 1 Wood Eaton Road.

*** Please leave scarecrows in place until Monday for some Danish folk dancers to look at when they are visiting the village. Thanks!

WORM CHARMING

The winner of the worm charming competition was John Hitchens. Our newly crowned grub-grabber will now represent Church Eaton at the World Worm Charming Championships at Willaston, Cheshire next year.

TUG of WAR COMPETITION

The trophy was won by The Haywood Tow who generously shared their prize barrel of beer with the other contestants. Our team, who came a creditable sixth, were coached by Martin Smith and called Campaign for Goalposts for the Glebelands. A message to Lloyd, Dave, Nigel, Sean, Joe, Jimmy, Tom, Colin, Casper and Brett:  Come back and have another go next year. The general verdict is that you showed a great deal of promise.

The results were: 1^st Haywood Tow; 2^nd Chase Young Farmers; 3^rd Team Swift; 4^th Eccleshall Young Farmers; 5^th The Horns Pub, Gnosall; 6^th Church Eaton; 7= Wheaton Aston and ‘Roped-into-it’, Penkridge.  

FESTIVAL CRICKET RESULT

Church Eaton lost to Birmingham Libraries by 9 runs.
The scores were Church Eaton 109 for 6 and Birmingham Libraries 118 for 3.

PICTURE QUIZ

A few photographs of Church Eaton residents have been submitted, but we could do with some more and then we can start the quiz. Contact Les Beattie or Ian Watkins or Mark Stockhall. Entries will be £1 and half the proceeds will be paid out in prizes and the other half donated to Katherine House Hospice.

MOBILE LIBRARY

The mobile library will be by the post box tomorrow (Fri).

No. 36     10^th – 16^th July 2008
FESTIVAL  EDITION

 This weekend the annual Church Eaton Festival takes place. It starts on Friday at 6pm with a Family Fun Event at the Village Institute and ends on Sunday at 10pm with a Fireworks Display at the Glebelands.

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH: On Friday there is a concert in the church by Fish from Oblivion at 7.30pm and on Saturday at 10am, bell ringing will announce the grand opening of the festival. There are

church displays and music on both days from 10.30am leading to concerts at 3pm by the village choir. In the Crockett Chapel there is storytelling and poems about Church Eaton at 4pm on Saturday and 11am on Sunday. The Stafford Morris Men will be dancing outside the church on Sunday at 12.30pm. Also on Sunday at 2.30pm there will be a quarter peal of church bells by the Eccleshall Ringers and a Songs of Praise at 6.30pm.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE: The Family Fun event on Friday at 6pm costs £3 for a family ticket (pay at the door). On both Saturday and Sunday the Institute becomes a splendid Cafe from 10.30am until 5pm. On Saturday there is a Family Barn Dance at 7.30pm - a family ticket costs £10 and £4 for an adult. Also at 7.30pm there is a BBQ until 9pm. A Shared Village Supper is at 7.45pm on Sunday, so bring beverages and food to share and perhaps take part in the end-of-festival raffle.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL (1): On Saturday the PTA School Fayre starts at 12 noon and closes at 3pm. A concert by the school Brass Group is at 2.30pm. On Sunday there is Worm Charming at 1.30pm and Gaunt's Retinue, a 14th century martial arts fighting group, will be on show until 5.30pm; traction engine rides at 2pm; impromptu rounders at 2.30pm and a demonstration from Newport Gym club at 4pm.

THE GLEBELANDS: Tennis commences at 12 noon on Saturday with a juniors' tournament followed by parents and juniors at 1.30pm. From 3pm the finals of the Church Eaton Men's Singles Trophy will take place. The Tug of War is on Sunday at 11am followed by a cricket match at 2pm between Church Eaton and Birmingham Libraries. The festival ends here on Sunday at 10pm with the lighting of the beacon and grand finale fireworks.

THE ROYAL OAK: The pub will be open on Saturday from 11am until midnight and on Sunday from 11am until 10.30pm. On both days there is a market on the car park from 10.30am and hot dogs and burgers will be on sale. A group from Eccleshall folk club will be playing outside the pub on Saturday afternoon at 2.30pm and the Stafford Morris Men will be dancing by the pub on Sunday at 2.30pm.

On Wednesday there is a Mexican Night from 6.30pm onwards.

FESTIVAL PROCESSION: This will start from the car park field at 11 o'clock on Saturday morning and proceed to the Glebelands accompanied by Chris Gumbley's jazz band.

OPEN GARDENS: On both afternoons there will be six gardens open to view in the village including the churchyard and one, Rose Cottage, in Apeton. Tickets are £1.50 for all seven gardens. 

SCARECROW TRAIL: The trail can be followed anytime during the festival and there is a quiz sheet for those who like a challenge. All scarecrow competition winners will be announced during the Songs of Praise service on Sunday. As usual, please leave your scarecrows up for at least a week after the festival. 

FESTIVAL MUSIC: Staffordshire County Council has sponsored the music at this year's festival and there will be a lively mix of musical entertainment throughout the whole weekend including locals Bob Thacker with his home-made street chest organ and Annie Stanley playing a variety of instruments.

OPEN STUDIOS: Resident artists Rachel Millington's studio Rose

Villa and Bob Thacker's Oaklands Court will have displays of their work from 1pm on both days of the festival. Admission is free.

SHROPSHIRE EXOTIC INTERACTIVE ANIMAL SHOW: At 8 Malthouse Lane between 2pm and 3pm on Saturday, there will be live snakes, lizards, spiders, rabbits and guinea pigs for all to see. Admission is free.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL (2): School reports and SAT's results will be sent home tomorrow and an informal meeting to look at pupils' books and discuss reports will take place on Monday.

CHURCH and VILLAGE: The closing date for contributions to the next edition of the parish magazine, which will be a double issue covering both August and September, is Monday. 

CHURCH EATON TEA and CHAT GROUP: The group will meet on Monday at Mrs Jones', Marston. There is no meeting in August.

THE PICTURE QUIZ: The closing date to submit photographs is Sunday.

No.35    3^rd – 9^th July 2008

IT WAS A ‘DING’ THING

The chimes of midnight, or indeed any hour, have not been heard for most of this year due to a malfunctioning mechanism in the clock of St Editha’s Church, but this has now been temporarily rectified. Apparently no significant work has been done on the clock since 1963, so it needs a complete overhaul and an appeal will be launched shortly to raise the £3600 needed to do this. There is a detailed report about the condition of St Editha's clock in this month's parish magazine, but in simple terms - the dong lost its ding!

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH SUMMER LUNCH

This annual event is on Sunday at 12.30 p.m. (for 1 p.m.) at Lower Reule Farm with Rev. Peter Ashby and principal guests from Kuching, the Rev. John Sim and the Ven. Chimbe Bunsie. The lunch is in aid of St Editha's and all the tickets have been sold. 

CHURCH and VILLAGE

The closing date for contributions to the next edition of the parish magazine, which will be a double issue covering both August and September, is Monday 14th July. The editor is David Beech on 780678.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

The redecoration of the hall continues this week and all Institute activities are still cancelled. A new kitchen floor is also being laid. The work is scheduled to finish in time for the village festival next weekend when the Institute is used as a cafe.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

The school will be involved in the festival again this year. There is the PTA School Fayre, a concert by the Brass Group. All these events will be on the school field on Saturday 12th July between 12 noon and 3 p.m.

THE ROYAL OAK

The next pub quiz is on Monday at 8 p.m. with guest inquisitor Rob Page and there is a £70 jackpot to be won. The last quiz, hosted by Ian Watkins, went to a tie-break which was won by the Do Badleys, Mark Cockell and Dave Trigg.

CHURCH EATON PICTURE QUIZ

We are planning to organize a picture quiz with a difference to raise money for Katherine House Hospice. Entries will cost £1 and half the proceeds will be paid in prizes with the other half to the hospice. The quiz will require entrants to identify pictures of Church Eaton residents when they were between the ages of nought and twenty. If you have a photograph of yourself that we can use, please loan, give or email it to Les Beattie (3 Parkers Close, beattieles@btconnect.com; or Ian Watkins (Oatscroft, Malthouse Lane, WtkIan@aol.com). Pictures will be printed and circulated to entrants and, if you have submitted a photograph, you are guaranteed one point. The quiz will be open for two weeks and will start a week after the festival. Please send in your pictures before 13th July.

SCARECROW COMPETITION

Entry forms should be returned to Ron Lippitt, The Croft, Malthouse Lane by tomorrow (Fri).

VILLAGE FESTIVAL 2008

Staffordshire County Council are sponsoring the music at this year's festival. This includes the Stafford Morris Men; organ recitals and concert in St Editha's church; jazz in the procession; a barber shop quartet; English bagpipes and a saxophonist. Villager Bob Thacker has built a street chest organ which he will play at various intervals during the

weekend. Musicians from Eccleshall folk club have also been invited to play.

FAMILY BARN DANCE

As part of the festival there will be a Family Barn Dance at the Institute on Saturday July 12 at 7.30 p.m.
A family ticket costs £10 and £4 for an adult ticket.   

WORM CHARMING

This highlight of the village festival will take place on Sunday 13th July at 1.30 p.m. on the school field. Each competitor will operate a 3 metre square plot and lots will be drawn to allocate these. Plots are £3 each and you can book yours in advance by phoning 823067 or 824788.

CHURCH EATON GOLF SOCIETY

Last Friday's tournament at the Manor Golf Club, Uttoxeter was won by Robert Carless, second was Steve Caplan and Carl Bellamy was third. Ken Carless hit the longest drive and Dave Hill was nearest the pin (almost a hole-in-one).

MOBILE LIBRARY:

The library van will be stationed by the post box tomorrow from 2.55 p.m. to 4.20 p.m.

No. 34:    26^th June – 2^nd July 2008

MORE SLEIGHT-OF-HAND AT THE ROYAL OAK

He should have used a bandanna instead of a banana for one of his tricks and he did not make a pint of lager disappear any quicker than Ian ‘Swiller ’Watkins, but Rick Fontaine’s return appearance to the Royal Oak last Saturday for Josie Byford’s 30^th birthday was an unmitigated success. The jet black-haired, moustachioed prestidigitator buffooned his way through a series of quick fire tricks in the finest Cooperesque tradition before inserting a dagger through landlord Mark Stockhall’s tongue and then cutting off his left arm. (For those who care, Stockhall survived unscathed). The audience then watched in awed silence as a heavily-chained Fontaine struggled to keep his head above water in the Tank of Doom, but the great escapologist turned up safe among the crowd spitting water. Meanwhile Steve Spiers performed his own inimitable brand of magic behind the bar, as he does every week, and local group ‘The Endings’ conjured up some excellent music.  

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

There is no service at St Editha's this Sunday, but there is a United Service and Baptism for the four parishes at St Mary & All Saints Church, Bradley. This is at 10 a.m. and conducted by the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby.

CHURCH and VILLAGE

The July edition of the parish magazine will be published and distributed this weekend. It costs 30p or £3 annually. To order a copy, contact 824788

A SUMMER LUNCH

All the tickets for the Marquee Summer Lunch at Lower Reule Farm in aid of St Editha's church on July 6 have been sold.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

The redecoration of the Institute hall has begun and activities have been cancelled for the coming week. The Mothers' and Toddlers' group has arranged a visit to Wonderland at Telford Town Park on Wednesday. Details of the trip are available from Stella on 841850. Also on Wednesday the Gardening Club, who are visiting Wilkins Pleck at Whitmore, meet in the Institute car park at 6.30 pm. Contact Michael Faarup on 824606

VILLAGE CHOIR

The next practice is on Wednesday in the church at 8 pm. We are practising songs for the village festival at present. If you would like to join us, just come along or contact Daphne on 823958.

THE ROYAL OAK

On Monday the Stafford Morris Men will be dancing outside The Royal Oak at 9 p.m. as part of their evening tours. There is a Fish and Chips evening on Wednesday from 6.30 pm.

THE PARISH COUNCIL

The Parish Council has compiled an up-to-date list of highway matters which require urgent attention and these have been sent to Mike Webb at Staffordshire County Council Highways department. These include the poor state of the village finger posts; the condition of many of the local roads; the bridge repair at Birchmoor Lane; flooding by The Laurels and missing village signs.

The Clerk confirmed the order of a set of five-a-side goal posts which should be installed in the village playground in 2 or 3 weeks. Painting of the old swings and entrance rails should also commence shortly.

The next meeting of the Parish Council will be held on Tuesday at 7.30 p.m. in the school. For more information about any of these matters contact the clerk, Diane Key on 01785 822723 or email diane@fellpony.me.uk

CHURCH EATON FESTIVAL 2008

Fish from Oblivion, an 8 piece world music choir, will open the festival with a concert in St Editha's church at 7.30 p.m. on Friday 11th July. Tickets are available from Trevor Houghton and from The Royal Oak at £6 per person and this includes a glass of wine.

WANTED

Classical music buskers are wanted to play at the Church Eaton Festival on 12th and/or 13th July. Young people and students are encouraged to apply. Contact Justin on 01785 824788.

SCARECROW COMPETITION

Entry forms should be returned to Ron Lippitt, The Croft, Malthouse Lane by July 4.

TUG of WAR COMPETITION

This will be held as part of the Festival on Sunday 13th July starting at 11 a.m. on the Glebelands sports' field. The prize is a keg of beer (equivalent to 60 pints lager or 68 pints bitter) donated by the Royal Oak and to be consumed there by the winning team. It costs £10 per team of 8 to enter the competition and entry forms can be obtained from the Royal Oak. Contact Josie on 01785 823078 for further details.

WORM CHARMING

For those who want to see the best methods for worm charming, the 29th World Worm Charming Championships are being held at 2 p.m. on Saturday 28th June 2008 at Willaston County Primary School, Willaston, Nantwich, Cheshire. Gates open at 1 pm. Disabled parking is available on-site, otherwise follow road signs to alternative parking. Admission £1

CHURCH EATON GOLF SOCIETY

The third tournament will be played tomorrow (Friday) at the Manor Golf Club, Uttoxeter.

No. 33    19^th – 25^th June  2008

BREAK-IN AT ROYAL OAK

There was a burglary at The Royal Oak last Thursday 12th June at about 4 o'clock in the morning. Thieves entered the rear yard, after unbolting a 5ft wooden gate, and forced the padlock from the cellar door. They stole bottles of spirits before being disturbed by the alarm and making their escape. Police would like to hear from anyone with any information regarding this particular incident. Residents are warned to be on their guard and to report any suspicious activity to the police immediately. Phone 01785 234129 or 07813154586.

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is Family Communion and Baptism at 10 a.m. with the Rev Peter Ashby and Sunday School in the Institute also at 10 a.m. After the services the Sunday School is having its annual end of term 'Bring and Share' picnic to which all are welcome. Sunday School will resume again in September. For further information contact Julie on 823049 or Maureen on 823844.

Bell ringers' practice is tonight at 8 p.m.   

A SUMMER LUNCH

With the kind permission of Ian and Carol Critchley, there will be a Marquee Summer lunch in aid of St Editha's church on July 6 at Lower Reule Farm. Food and drink, music and poetry and children's entertainment will all be on the menu. Tickets, £15 for adults and £5 for children, are available from Michael Evans on 822586 or Daphne Rutherford on 823958.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Slimacise continues this evening at 6.30 p.m. The redecoration of the Institute hall starts on Wednesday, so the Mothers' and Toddlers' group has arranged a visit to Amerton Farm with its animals and playbarn. Next week they are going to Wonderland at Telford Town Park. Details of these trips are available from Stella on 841850. Dog training classes on Wednesday will continue as usual at 7 p.m.

VILLAGE CHOIR

The next practice is on Wednesday in the church at 8 p.m. We are practising songs for the village festival at present. If you would like to join us, just come along or contact Daphne on 823958.

THE ROYAL OAK

There is another quiz on Monday at 8 p.m. The last quiz was won by The Flatlanders comprising Joan and Ian Watkins and Carol and Rob Page. The quiz master was Les Beattie. The cash prize of £60 was not won and is now carried over to Monday's game.

CHURCH EATON FESTIVAL 2008

The next meeting of the Festival Committee is on Wednesday in The Royal Oak at 8 p.m.

Fish from Oblivion, fresh from their success at the Stafford Music Festival, will open our festival with a concert in St Editha's church at 7.30 p.m. (for 8 p.m.) on Friday 11th July. Tickets are £6 per person and this includes a glass of wine. Fish from Oblivion are an 8 piece world music choir who take in everywhere from the Republic of Georgia to Cuba and Back to the USSR; everyone from Georgian bandits to Spanish International Brigades and from Thomas Tallis and Henry Purcell to Kirsty MacColl and Sting and every time from the Middle Ages to closing time.  

TUG of WAR COMPETITION

This will be held as part of the Festival on Sunday 13th July starting at 11 a.m. on the Glebelands sports' field. The prize is a keg of beer (equivalent to 60 pints lager or 68 pints bitter) donated by The Royal Oak and to be consumed there by the winning team. It costs £10 per team of 8 to enter the competition and entry forms can be obtained from the Royal Oak. Contact Josie on 01785 823078 for further details.

WORM CHARMING TIP NO 5

Competitors who do not want to handle worms may appoint a second to do so. The second shall be known as a 'gillie'. These weekly tips are for the benefit of those who intend to take part in the Church Eaton Worm Charming competition on July 13 as part of the festival. For more details contact the head wormer John Edwards on 823067.

THE VILLAGE TELEPHONE

Some residents may not be aware that there is a notice from BT in the red telephone box, dated 2nd May, which states that a detailed survey has shown that the kiosk is not being used sufficiently to continue the service at the present location. BT is therefore proposing to remove the payphone following a consultation period of 42 days. It may be already too late, but to include your views on this matter contact the Local Authority Planning department who will collate all responses back to BT. Since the kiosk was vandalised last year there has been no cash or card facilities made available for the phone to be used. BT has not informed the Parish Council of their intentions. 

PUBLIC ENQUIRY

The closing date for comments on the sixth planning appeal for a new dwelling at 6 Smithy Croft is June 24. Check the village website for details of this enquiry. 

CHURCH EATON GOLF SOCIETY

Sign up now for the third tournament on June 27 at the Manor Golf Club, Uttoxeter 

MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the post box tomorrow between 2.55 p.m. and 4.20 p.m.

No. 32:         12^th – 18^th June  2008

 PULLING PINTS

There will be a Tug of War Competition, as part of the Church Eaton Festival, on Sunday 13th July starting at 11am on the Glebelands sports' field. The prize will be a keg of beer

(equivalent to 60 pints lager or 68 pints bitter) donated by the Royal Oak and to be consumed there by the winning team. It costs £10 per team of 8 to enter the competition and entry forms can be obtained from the Royal Oak. Contact Josie on 01785 823078 for further details.

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

There is Holy Communion on Sunday at 8am with the Rev John Davis and he will also lead a Celtic Service at 6.30pm.

Bell ringers' practice is tonight at 8pm

A SUMMER LUNCH

With the kind permission of Ian and Carol Critchley, there will be a Marquee Summer Lunch in aid of St Editha's Church on July 6 at Lower Reule Farm. Food and drink, music and poetry and children's entertainment are all on the menu.

Tickets, £15 for adults and £5 for children, are available from Michael Evans on 822586 or Daphne Rutherford on 823958.

CHURCH and VILLAGE

The deadline for contributions to the July edition of the parish magazine is this Saturday. The editor is David Beech on 780678. To place an advertisement, contact Darren Latuske on 780472.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Slimacise continues this evening at 6.30pm. On Wednesday the Toddlers' group meets from 10am to 12 noon and there are the usual Dog Training Classes at 7pm. Also on Wednesday the Gardening Club has arranged a visit to Wollerton Old Hall, Market Drayton. Those going are asked to meet in the Institute car park at 6.30pm for shared travel arrangements.

Later this month a complete professional redecoration of the Institute hall will take place. Friends and supporters of the Institute are asked to volunteer some time to paint the smaller rooms (toilets, bar and kitchen) and undertake other smaller support jobs which need to be done before the festival weekend in July. Contact Michael Faarup on 824606 or John Edwards on 823067.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

Bag 2 School - this PTA initiative to raise money for school funds takes place today (Thurs) between 9am and 10am.
Sports' Afternoon is planned for Wednesday 18^th June at 1.30pm (or Thursday 19^th if it is wet).

VILLAGE CHOIR

The next practice is on Wednesday in the church at 8pm. If you would like to join us, just come along or contact Daphne on 823958.

CHURCH EATON TEA and CHAT GROUP

The group meets on Monday at Mrs Taylor's house.

THE ROYAL OAK

On Wednesday there is a Pasta Evening from 6.30pm until 9pm.

CIVIC AMENITY VISIT

The first visit of the year will be on Saturday at the Royal Oak car park from 9am to 10am. You should be there to hand over your rubbish.

Other visits have been arranged for August 30 and December 6.

CHURCH EATON VILLAGE FESTIVAL

Gaunt's Retinue, a 14th century martial arts fighting group, has just been added to the festival programme for 13th July. They will offer archery, dressing a knight and sword training as part of their presentation. More details later.

SCARECROW COMPETITION

It's time to plan your scarecrow for the festival. Entry forms have now been distributed to every home and should be returned to Ron Lippitt, The Croft, Malthouse Lane by Friday 4th July if you want to take part. About 100 scarecrows are made each year by villagers.

WORM CHARMING TIP NO 4

A garden fork may be stuck into the ground and vibrated by any manual means to encourage worms to the surface. A piece of wood, smooth or notched, may be used to strike or ‘fiddle’ the handle of the fork to assist vibration.

These weekly tips are for the benefit of those who intend to take part in the Church Eaton Worm Charming competition on July 13 as part of the festival. For more details contact the head wormer John Edwards on 823067.

CHURCH EATON NEWS

Any activities or events in the village that need reports or publicity should be sent to Justin O'Doherty on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com  

No. 31:    5^th to 11^th June  2008 

ANY VOLUNTEERS ? 

Later this month, after re-plastering work and internal repairs are complete, a complete professional redecoration of the Institute hall will take place. The timber structure will be emphasised and the walls will have a lighter appearance than at present. In addition to this, friends and supporters of the Institute are asked to volunteer some time to paint the smaller rooms (toilets, bar and kitchen) and undertake other smaller support jobs which need to be done to achieve the completed project before the festival weekend in July. Contact Michael Faarup on 824606 or John Edwards on 823067.

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

On Sunday there is Family Communion and Baptism at 10.15 a.m. with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby. Sunday school is held in the Institute at 10 a.m.

Find out more about St Editha's Church by clicking 'church' on this website. The church pages have been renewed and updated. 

WANTED - A PARISH SECRETARY

We are looking for a computer-literate volunteer to assist the Rev Peter Ashby with some parish administration. This would include helping to produce the weekly pew sheets, compiling parish information for the magazines and diary co-ordination. The hours will be flexible, but would add up to the equivalent of about a half day per week. Please contact Peter Ashby on 780201 if you are interested, or speak to one of the church wardens. We are primarily looking for a volunteer to whom we would pay expenses. Under the right circumstances we would be prepared to discuss remuneration. 

A SUMMER LUNCH

With the kind permission of Ian and Carol Critchley, there

will be a Marquee Summer lunch in aid of St Editha's Church on July 6 at Lower Reule Farm. Fresh and delicious food and drink, music and poetry and children's entertainment will all be on the menu. Tickets, £15 for adults and £5 for children, are available from Michael Evans on 822586 or Daphne Rutherford on 823958. 

CHURCH and VILLAGE

The deadline for the July edition of the parish magazine is Saturday 14th June. For the first time the magazine is showing a profit and the editorial staff would like to thank all readers, advertisers and helpers for their support.

 VILLAGE INSTITUTE

The Church Eaton Progressive Scrabble Champion is Jeremy Bach. He won the title at last Saturday's competition in the Institute.

Slimacise continues this evening (Thurs) at 6.30 p.m. On Wednesday the Toddlers' group meets from 10 a.m. to 12 noon and there are the usual dog training classes at 7 p.m. also on Wednesday.

 CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

Bag 2 School - the PTA are collecting adults' and children's clothing, curtains, soft toys, shoes, belts, handbags, and bedding, but NOT bric-a-brac to raise money for school funds. If parents and villagers can donate any of these items, please put them into regular bin bags and bring them to the school between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. on Thursday 12th June. Please note that, due to lack of storage space, we can only accept bags at this time. PTA members will be on hand to co-ordinate and help load the van which will be at the school for 10.15 a.m. We will be paid £300 for every tonne we collect. If you need assistance with the moving of bags, contact Fay on 01952 691132 before 10th June. 

THE ROYAL OAK

There is another pub quiz on Monday at 8 p.m. The questions will be compiled and asked by Les Beattie and the bonus cash prize has now accumulated to £60.

 VILLAGE CHOIR

The next practice is on Wednesday in the church at 8 p.m.

 MOBILE LIBRARY

The library van will be parked by the post box tomorrow from 2.55 p.m. to 4.20 p.m.

 CHURCH EATON FESTIVAL 2008

We are still looking for classical music buskers for our festival on 12th and 13th July. Contact Justin on 01785 824788.

 CIVIC AMENITY VISIT

The first visit of the year will be on Saturday 14th June at the Royal Oak car park from 9 a.m. to 10am. Other visits have been arranged for August 30 and December 6.

 WORM CHARMING TIP NO 3

Any form of music may be used to charm worms out of the ground. However music by Sheryl Crow or The Byrds is not recommended! These weekly tips are being offered to those who intend to participate in the Church Eaton Worm Charming competition on July 13. The head wormer is John Edwards on 823067. This is only one of many attractions at this year's village festival.

 NEIGHBOURHOOD and RURAL WATCH

On 28th May thieves broke into the garage of a property in Apeton and cut through the bolts fastening a quad bike to the floor, but for some reason the bike was left outside on the driveway. In another incident on the same day, a resident of Church Eaton Road returned home from work at 6 p.m. to discover someone had broken into his flat, taken the keys to a motorbike and stolen the bike. There is also a report of offenders cutting the fuel pipe of a car in Bradley and syphoning off all the petrol. Police are asking us to warn neighbours about these incidents and for everyone in the area to be extra vigilant and security conscious.
Report any sightings or information to 08453 302010 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

CHURCH EATON NEWS

Any activities or events in the village that need reports or publicity in the Newsletter should be sent to Justin O'Doherty on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com

No. 30:    29^th May – 4^th June  2008

 AND NOW A PUBLIC ENQUIRY

After five rejected building applications for the garden of 6 Smithy Croft, there is now to be a public enquiry into the matter. Residents are asked to take an interest in this particular case, as it may have precedents for future planning in the village. Information about the previous applications and the objections to them can be found under Village Events and News on this website.

ST EDITHA'S CHURCH

The Worship Group will lead a Family Service on Sunday at  10am.

In aid of St Editha's church, there will be a Summer Lunch in a marquee at Lower Reule Farm on Sunday 6th July at 12.30pm. The occasion will have free fizz on arrival; a barbecue; delicious salads; local strawberries and cream and a cash bar. In addition there will be music and poetry and children's entertainments. Tickets, £15 for adults and £5 for children, are available now from Michael on 822586 and Daphne on 823958. 

CHURCH and VILLAGE

The June edition of the Parish Magazine will be published and distributed in the next week. It costs 30p or £3 annually. To order a copy, contact 824788.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Slimacise continues this evening at 6.30pm.

On Saturday at 7pm there is a Progressive Scrabble evening which will be more of a social than a competitive event. Nibbles, tea and coffee will be provided as well as glasses for your own drinks. Please bring a scrabble set, if you have one. The admission is £2.50 per person. For further information, contact Maggie or Bob on 822718.

Badminton is now suspended for the Summer season and will resume again in September.

On Wednesday the Toddlers meet from 10am to 12 noon and there are the usual Dog Training classes at 7pm.

Anyone wishing to hire the Institute for a village or social function should contact Carol on 823067.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

The school reopens on Monday morning after the mid-term break.

THE ROYAL OAK

There is a Curry Evening on Wednesday from 6.30pm.

 THE PARISH COUNCIL

The next meeting is in the school on Tuesday at 7.30pm.

 VILLAGE CHOIR

The next practice is on Wednesday at 8pm. The choir is currently rehearsing for performances at the Church Eaton Festival on 12th & 13th July. New members are always welcome. Contact Daphne on 823958.

 BEST KEPT VILLAGE COMPETITION

The judges have already made one visit last week and will return if they liked what they saw. The village looked very attractive and we should assume that they will be back. Judging continues until July 25.

 CHURCH EATON FESTIVAL 2008

The next meeting of the festival committee is on Wednesday in the Royal Oak at 8pm. So far, we have street musicians

playing jazz and folk, but we would like to attract some classical music as well. Contact Justin on 824788.

 STORY TELLING

The storytellers meet in the church on Monday at 8.30pm.  

 WORM CHARMING TIP NO 2

No drugs may be used to entice the worms out of the earth. Water is considered to be a drug or stimulant and may not be used. These weekly tips are being offered to those who intend to participate in the Church Eaton Worm Charming competition on 13th July. The winner could represent the village at the World Worm Charming Championships held in Cheshire next year.

RURAL WATCH

We have been told by the police that unhinged metal gates in the area are being removed by thieves for their scrap metal value.

CHURCH EATON NEWS

Any activities or events in the village that need reports or publicity in the Newsletter should be sent to Justin O'Doherty on 824788 or at jod7117@aol.com    

No. 29: 22^nd May – 28^th May 2008

WORM CHARMING TIP NO 1 – GOOD VIBRATIONS

 Worms may not be dug from the ground. Vibrations only to be used. As part of the preparation for the worm charming competition at this year's festival, we are giving a series of advice to those unfortunate enough not to have charmed a worm before. Tip 2 next week. The head wormer is John Edwards on 823067.

ST EDITHA’S CHURCH

On Sunday there is Holy Communion and Baptism at 10 am with the rector, the Rev Peter Ashby. There is no Sunday school this week; the next one will be on June 8.

Bell ringers' practice is tonight at 8 pm.

VILLAGE INSTITUTE

Slimacise classes are at 6.30 pm today. Contact Jo on 780315 for details.

The next Aspects of Art session is on Tuesday at 8 pm.

On Wednesday the Toddlers' group meets from 10 am to 12 noon as normal and during this mid-term week older siblings are welcome to join their younger brothers and sisters. Contact Stella on 841850.

Dog training classes continue at 7 pm, also on Wednesday.

On Saturday 31st May at 7 pm there will be a Progressive Scrabble evening which will be more of a social than a competitive event. Nibbles, tea and coffee will be provided - and glasses for your own drinks. The admission is £2.50 per person. For further information contact Maggie or Bob on 822718.

The Gardening Club's visit to Cholmondeley Gardens on June 18^th has been cancelled and replaced by a trip to Wollerton Old Hall, Market Drayton.

Anyone wishing to hire the Institute for a village or private function should contact Carol on 823067.

CHURCH EATON SCHOOL

The school closes for mid-term