Village News

The Village Youth Theatre Company moved to Wheaton Aston recently

We meet every Friday from 5 - 7pm at the Village Hall and produce three shows each year. The company, which has been established 12 years, is open to anyone aged 7 years plus and is currently accepting new members.

Anyone interested in joining should contact Ruth on either 01785 841493, 07810 481493 or e-mail Ruth281@aol.com

22nd July 2010

UNICORN FOLK CLUB:
The Unicorn Folk Club has can be found in the upstairs function room at the Bradford Arms, Ivetsey Bank, Wheaton Aston, next to the A5, every Friday. Tomorrow night, Paul Cherrington and Pam Ward will be performing, singing folk and blues music. For further details, please telephone Vicky Evans on 01785 841274 or visit the website www.unicornfolkclub.co.uk.

TREASURE HUNT:
On Sunday August 1, a ‘green’ treasure hunt, organised by the ‘Friends of Mottey Meadows’, will be taking place around Wheaton Aston, starting at 2.00pm. It will cost £2.00 to enter, with children under 14 having free entry. Anyone interested in taking part should meet at Wheaton Aston village hall. The treasure hunt will last for about two hours as there are about thirty clues to find. Afterwards, refreshments will be available at the Lapley and Wheaton Aston Recreation Ground. All proceeds are to go to the funds of ‘Friends of Mottey Meadows’.

SPORTS AND SOCIAL CLUB:
At the cricket match played last Saturday at home, Wheaton Aston got 142 for 1 with St Georges scoring 138 for 7 so this meant that Wheaton Aston won by 9 wickets.
On Friday July 30, starting at 8.00pm, there will be a disco held at the club.
For more details, please telephone Stacey on 07842074152.

COFFEE MORNING:
At the coffee morning held by the Old People’s Welfare Committee at Joy Machin’s house, The Blades, £294 was raised. All proceeds are for the Old People’s Welfare funds.

WHEATON ASTON AND LAPLEY WOMENS’ INSTITUTE:
Today strawberry scones and tea will be served at Olive Atkinson’s house, at 36 Long Street, Wheaton Aston. There will be a prize for the best hat worn. For further details, telephone Pearl Thorley on 01785 840602.

CHURCH:
At the recent ‘Summer Supper’ event held in Wheaton Aston village hall, the amount of £535.50 was raised which will go to the St Mary’s Development Fund.

SERVICES:
On Sunday, 9.00am Holy Communion All Saints’; 10.30am Morning Praise Wheaton Aston village hall.

15th July 2010

COFFEE MORNING:
Today, a coffee morning is being held by the Old People’s Welfare Committee from 10.30am – 12.30pm at Joy Machin’s house, The Blades, Pinfold Lane, Wheaton Aston. There will be cakes, preserves, books, toys, and plants for sale, along with a white elephant stall and a raffle, with refreshments also available. Everyone is welcome to come. All proceeds are for the Old People’s Welfare funds.

UNICORN FOLK CLUB:
The Unicorn Folk Club has can be found in the upstairs function room at the Bradford Arms, Ivetsey Bank, Wheaton Aston, next to the A5, every Friday. Tomorrow is singers’ night and will be hosted by Tony Barratt. To book a slot, please telephone 01785 841274. This is open mic night where everyone is welcome to come and join in. For further details, please telephone Vicky Evans on 01785 841274 or visit the website www.unicornfolkclub.co.uk.

FREAKY FRIDAY’S DISCO:
On Friday, there will be a Freaky Friday’s disco held in Wheaton Aston village hall, for those aged 12 – 18 years old, from 8.00pm – 11.00pm. Tickets cost 50p. Snacks and soft drinks will be available. For further details, call Suzy on 07891 538369. The no FADS rule will apply – no fighting, no alcohol, no drugs, no smoking.

SPORTS AND SOCIAL CLUB:
At the cricket match played last Saturday, Wheaton Aston got 218 for 4 and Whitchurch scored 155 for 9 which meant that Wheaton Aston won. On Saturday there is an all day barbeque at the sports and social club, with the bar opening at 2.00pm. The cricket team will be playing at home so anyone is welcome to come and watch.
On Friday, starting at 8.30pm, the monthly quiz is being held and prize money will be awarded to the winners. Entry costs £1.00 per player.
For more details, please telephone Stacey on 07842074152.

GARDEN OPEN DAY:
At the open garden day last Sunday held at the Wickets, 47 Long Street, Wheaton Aston, as part of the National Gardens Scheme, there were over 130 visitors and just under £600 was raised which will go to charity.

WESTON PARK:
Race for Life is the UK’s largest women only fundraising event where all the money raised goes to funding Cancer Research UK’s life-saving research, and the event is being held on Sunday at Weston Park. Entrants can walk, jog or run the 5K race or double the distance and join the 10K race. For more information, visit the website www.raceforlife.org or telephone 0871 641 1111.

PARISH COUNCIL MEETING:
At the recent parish council meeting, during the public participation session, the owner of Birchenese, Ivetsey Road, informed all present of the work that had been done in regard to the metal fencing facing the roadway. A hedge has been planted inside the fencing which, in time, will cover it to make a more natural feature.
The clerk in her report indicated that confirmation had been received from our local MP, Jeremy Lefroy, that he would attend the September meeting. She also stated that all land owned by the Parish Council is to be registered.
The report provided by the Police, covering the period 4-28 June 2010, stated that there had been no burglaries at dwellings, none attempted, no theft of or from motor vehicles and no drug related offences. Five incidents of criminal damage, one report of anti-social behaviour, the theft of a pedal cycle and the burglary from a shed of a powered saw and strimmer had been reported and recorded.
Six planning applications had been received. No objections were put forward to the following proposals: - wind turbines at Whitegate Farm; the land at White House, Lapley; the erection of one building, replacing two existing buildings for bio-mass pelleting production; the new dwelling at the Slades, Starkey’s Lane. Following discussion on the proposals, together with the additional information, submitted for the Vaughan Arms at Lapley to become a dwelling, it was agreed that the Parish Council would object on similar grounds to those in the last application due to the plans being the same.
A request to hold open air events on Marston Road Field was discussed but, due to the recent problems and the new equipment soon to be installed, the request, at this time, was declined.
The financial statement to 31 May 2010 was approved as was the recommendations from the Forward Planning & Finance Working Group in respect of the Parish Council having custodial trusteeship of Wheaton Aston Village Hall and the re-installation of a gate at the start of the trackway adjacent to the Marston Road Field.
In response to a request for safety measures through Stretton and along Marston Road in Wheaton Aston, Staffordshire County Council stated that “Slow” signs on the road will be added as well as “Pedestrians on the Road” signs in Stretton; similar signs will be placed in Marston Road.
Of the items indicated under parish maintenance, the prevention of car parking in the trackway between Marston Road Field and the school was the main issue. As indicated earlier, the gating at the entrance is to have work carried out.
The next meeting of the Wheaton Aston Play Strategy Working Group’s is on Tuesday July 13. The Playbuilder equipment is due to be delivered to Marston Road Field on Monday August 9 and it is expected to be fully installed within two weeks after this date. An official opening ceremony is scheduled for Friday September 3 2010. A village consultation for the Broadholes Lane project will take place on Saturday July 10 2010.
Our Village Agent, Jan Wright, was unable to be at the meeting but dates for the three consultation evenings, one in each village, were provided; Saturday July 3 for Wheaton Aston, Wednesday July 21 for Lapley, and Wednesday August 18 for Stretton.
A Best Kept Gardens competition will again take place in the three villages. Judges were agreed at the meeting and the judging will take place from now until the end of August. The presentation evening will be on Friday September 24 2010.
There were two reports from Parish Councillors who had attended other meetings; one held at Brewood dealing with health and welfare and the other being the Armed Forces Day at the Council Offices at Codsall.
Requests for information from members of the public, ongoing and recent, which use the Clerk’s time, was the subject of agreeing upon a policy which estimates the amount of time required to find specific information, copy and post it.
The next Parish Council Meeting will be held on Thursday September 2 at 7.30pm in Wheaton Aston village hall.

CHURCH:
The next informal walk will take place on Tuesday August 10, leaving St Mary’s at 10.00am, and will be up to the Bradford Arms for a light lunch afterwards. Everyone is welcome to come. Walking boots/stout shoes are needed and walkers walk at their own risk. For further details, telephone Brian and Mary Littleford on 01785 840552.
At the recent ‘Tea with the Townsends’ event held at The Old Rectory, Weston-under-Lizard, £200 was raised which will be added to the funds of St Andrew’s Church.

SERVICES:
On Sunday, family communion will be held at All Saints’ Church starting at 10.30am. Anyone who would like a lift to Lapley should wait outside St Mary’s Church, Wheaton Aston, at 10.00am.
On Wednesday, there will be a service of healing and wholeness at St Andrew’s Church, Weston-under-Lizard at 7.30pm. Anyone who would like a lift should contact Linda Beech on 01952 850149 or Pam Pritchard on 01952 691253.

BLYMHILL NEWS
GARDEN FETE: The garden fete will take place on Saturday on the playing fields and will be opened by Martin Gee at 2.00pm. There will be all the usual stalls and sideshows and refreshments will be available. For further details, please telephone David Hill on 01952 691552.

8th July 2010

UNICORN FOLK CLUB:
The Unicorn Folk Club has can be found in the upstairs function room at the Bradford Arms, Ivetsey Bank, Wheaton Aston, next to the A5, every Friday. This week, Brian Oldham, a local folk singer and guitarist, is performing. For further details, please telephone Vicky Evans on 01952 810355 or visit the website www.unicornfolkclub.co.uk.

GARDEN OPEN DAY:
On Sunday, the garden at the Wickets, 47 Long Street, Wheaton Aston, will be open for everyone to visit from 1.30pm to 5.00pm, and this year will feature two internationally famous model railways. Refreshments will be available. Tickets cost £3.00 for adults with free entry for children, with all proceeds going to charity. This is part of the National Gardens Scheme where gardens are opened to the public raise money for charity.

SPORTS AND SOCIAL CLUB:
At the last home match for the cricket team played at the sports and social club, Wheaton Aston got 224 all out and Iscoyd and Fenns scored 160 all out, which meant that Wheaton Aston won by 64 runs. The next home match is on Saturday and the bar will be open from 2pm.
At the away cricket match last Saturday, Cound batted first and they were 231 all out, with Wheaton Aston scoring 193 all out. This meant Cound won by 38 runs.
On Saturday at the sports and social club, there is a ‘Psychic Night with Mystikaz’ starting at 8.30pm. Tickets cost £3 and are available from Wheaton Aston post office or call Stacey on 07842074152.

WHEATON ASTON WIVES’
GROUP: Today there will be a talk by Sue Luteman entitled ‘Sooz Italian Travels' , in Wheaton Aston village hall starting at 8.00pm. For further details please telephone Jean Roberts on 01785 840556.

WHEATON ASTON AND LAPLEY WOMES’ INSTITUTE:
There will no meeting on Monday but there will be a visit to Derek Higgott’s garden at Little Hayward instead. For further details, telephone Celia Cox on 01785 840283.

WESTON PARK:
Camper Jam is Camper and Commercial Magazine’s very own show which is running from Friday to Sunday at Weston Park, and is aimed at owners and lovers of the VW bus in all its models and types. The show is a chilled out, laid back event, with people and buses getting together for a relaxing weekend of friendship and fun. The gates open at 2.00pm on Friday, and at 9.00am on Saturday and Sunday. There is a full entertainment programme with live music, fancy dress competitions, vehicles displays, a Camper Jam K9 show, cooking chilli in a camper, and more. It is a family oriented event with plenty for children to do. For further details, visit the website www.camperjam.co.uk.

CHURCH:
On Saturday, a summer supper is being held in Wheaton Aston village hall, with the doors opening at 7.00pm for a 7.30pm start. The evening will begin with sherry and pims being served, followed by a two course meal with the main course consisting of a cold collation supper. There will be music from the 60’s, played by Vic and John on guitars. This will be followed by a raffle and a mock auction. Please bring your own drinks. Tickets cost £12.50 and are available from Pauline Benton on 01785 841301. Last year this event was very successful so book early to avoid disappointment.
The next informal walk will take place on Tuesday. This is a special tour of environmentally friendly Rookery Farm, Wheaton Aston, walking fields not normally accessible to the public. Walkers will meet at Rookery Farm at 10.00am where they will return afterwards for coffee and cake. Everyone is welcome to come. Walking boots/stout shoes are needed and walkers walk at their own risk. For further details, telephone Brian and Mary Littleford on 01785 840552.

SERVICES:
On Sunday 9.00am Holy Communion All Saints’; 10.30am family service in Wheaton Aston village hall.

1st July 2010

STRAWBERRY CREAM TEA DROP IN:
Today there will be a strawberry cream tea drop-in held in Wheaton Aston village hall from 2.00pm – 4.00pm, courtesy of Lapley and Wheaton Aston Old People’s Welfare Committee, to which all local pensioners are invited to come and there will be no charge.

WHEATON ASTON CARNIVAL:
On Saturday, the Wheaton Aston Carnival will take place on Leeke Way Field. The procession of floats will start at 12.00 noon from St Mary’s First School and will parade through the village to Leeke Way field, where the Carnival will then open at 1.00pm. At the Carnival, there will be a big pipe band, vintage cars, a dog display, a fun fair, donkey rides, a Punch and Judy show, fire engines rides, and the Church Lads and Church girls, and there is a stage where the band will be playing. There will be lots of children’s games such as the egg and spoon race, a tug of war, etc. There will also be lots of stalls and refreshments will be available. Entry to the Carnival is free.

WESTON PARK:
On Sunday tours are being given around the House entitled ‘What the Butler Saw’ and these will be accompanied by an experienced guide to show what went on behind the scenes, and what goes on today in the servants’ quarters. The tours start at 12 noon and 2.00pm.
Also on Sunday, starting at 11.00am, there will be a tour of the gardens at Weston lasting about 2 hours, led by Martin Gee, the Head Gardener. Martin’s family have lived and worked on the estate for over 250 years and he will explain how the gardens have changed over the centuries to reflect the latest styles and influences.
The latest exhibition in the Granary Gallery is by Jason Hicklin, from Shropshire, whose etchings use a monochrome palette to depict interesting landscapes. Many of his pictures depict some of the bleaker and wilder forms of nature from the isolated coast of Donegal and Scottish mountain ranges. Jason also teaches in this medium. The exhibition runs throughout July and the Gallery is open daily from 11.00am – 4.00pm, with free entry.
For further information please telephone 01952 852100.

CHURCH:
On Sunday, you are invited to ‘Tea with the Townsends’. Tea and cakes will be served at 2, The Old Rectory, Weston-under-Lizard, which is the home of Tony and Elaine Townend, between 3.00pm – 5.00pm. Entry will be free but there will be a donations box for St Andrew’s Church. For further details please telephone 01952 850534.

SERVICES:
On Sunday 10.30am Holy Communion All Saints’.

24th June 2010

UNICORN FOLK CLUB:
The Unicorn Folk Club has can be found in the upstairs function room at the Bradford Arms, Ivetsey Bank, Wheaton Aston, next to the A5, every Friday. Tomorrow evening, Driftwood will be appearing and will be playing folk and acoustic music tinged with soul. For further details, please telephone Vicky Evans on 01952 810355 or visit the website www.unicornfolkclub.co.uk.

SPORTS AND SOCIAL CLUB:
A darts knockout tournament is to be held on Friday. Anyone can enter and the cost is £3.00 per player. Registration starts at 7.30pm for an 8.00pm start. There will be a money prize for first and second place and for the highest checkout.
At the cricket match played last Saturday, Church Aston got 145 all out, Wheaton Aston got 150 for 1 and so won by 9 wickets. The next home match will be on Saturday

MOTTEY MEADOWS:
Natural England, the government nature conservancy department, has purchased a new addition to it's internationally important 'Mottey Meadows' water meadows in Wheaton Aston. Last Saturday four members of three of Wheaton Aston's oldest families handed over the field to Tim Coleshaw, site manager for Natural England in a brief ceremony in Broadholes Lane.
Tim Coleshaw told the gathering that the field, a former hay meadow, would be restored and unlike the rest of the 100 acre site, access will be less restricted and interested people will be free to view the wild flowers, including the famous snake's head fritillaries, known locally as the 'folfalarums', that grow wild there in May.
The two acre field originally called “Broad Dole Meadow” will be renamed “Weate's Meadow” to recognise the Weate family who were the last owners of the field.
The event was part of the annual 'Hay Festival' held in the Mottey Meadows by Natural England and supported by Wheaton Aston groups including “Friends of the Mottey Meadows”.

WESTON PARK:
Today there will be a sponsored ride at Weston Park which is being hosted by the Tettenhall Group of the Riding for the Disabled Association, around the grounds at Weston, with all proceeds going to the charity. It is a four mile course which goes through the 1000 acres of parkland giving the riders the chance to take advantage of the wide open space. Riders can arrive from 4.00pm and stay until 8.00pm , with the last rider departing at 7.30pm. Entry to the event is free but each rider is requested to pay a minimum sponsorship fee of £15. Sponsorship forms and entry details can be obtained from the website 111.weston-park.com.

CHURCH:
There will be a choir concert in Wheaton Aston village hall on Friday starting at 7.15pm. This is the choir of St John’s First School, Bishops Wood, who are giving a concert to raise funds for St Marys’ Development Fund. Light refreshments will be available. For further details, please contact Kath Doyle on 01785 840525.

SERVICES:
On Sunday 9.00am Holy Communion All Saints’; 10.30am Morning Praise Wheaton Aston village hall.

BLYMHILL NEWS
PIG ROAST: There will be a pig roast and live entertainment on Saturday, starting at 8.00pm, at Brineton House Farm, by kind permission of the Stokes family. There will also be an auction and a bar. Tickets cost £10 with free entry for children under 10 years of age, and are available from Bill Hill on 01952 850370, Mick Stokes on 01952 850225, or Maurice Venables on 01952 691258. All proceeds are to go to the Blymhill new village hall fund.

PHOTO CAPTION:
Mottey Meadows grows
Clive Blakemore Syd Marson, David Blakemore and Wes Weate at the handing over ceremony last Saturday. The Blakemore family have lived in Wheaton Aston since the 16thth century, the Weate family since the 17th.

17th June 2010

SPORTS AND SOCIAL CLUB:
At the cricket match played at home last Saturday, the Wheaton Aston Cricket Club lost to Oswestry. Wheaton Aston had the losing draw and got 162 for 3 whereas Oswestry got 278 for 4. The next home match will be on Saturday June 26.
On Friday, the England versus Algeria football match will be shown on a big screen at the club and the kick-off is at 7.30pm.

10th June 2010

UNICORN FOLK CLUB:
The Unicorn Folk Club has can be found in the upstairs function room at the Bradford Arms, Ivetsey Bank, Wheaton Aston, next to the A5, every Friday. Tomorrow evening, Flossie Malavialle who is French but lives in Darlington, will be appearing. For further details, please telephone Vicky Evans on 01952 618438 or visit the website www.unicornfolkclub.co.uk.

SPORTS AND SOCIAL CLUB:
On Friday, the monthly quiz is taking place at the sports and social club starting at 8.00pm, and will feature general knowledge questions. It costs £1.00 per player to enter and prize money will be awarded to the winners.
At the recent cricket match played at home, the Wheaton Aston Cricket Club lost to Acton Reynolds. Wheaton Aston had the losing draw and got 149 for 5 whereas Acton Reynolds got 181 for 6. The next home match is on Saturday June 12.

WHEATON ASTON AND LAPLEY WOMES’ INSTITUTE:
There will be a talk entitled ‘The Wenlock Olympian Society’ by Helen Cromarty on Monday, starting at 8.00pm in Wheaton Aston village hall, which will tell about the birthplace of the modern Olympics. Everyone is welcome at attend. For further details telephone Pearl Thorley on 01785 840602.

FREAKY FRIDAY’S DISCO:
On Friday, there will be a Freaky Friday’s disco held in Wheaton Aston village hall, for those aged 12 – 18 years old, from 8.00pm – 11.00pm. Tickets cost 50p. Snacks and soft drinks will be available. For further details, call Suzy on 07891 538369. The no FADS rule will apply – no fighting, no alcohol, no drugs, no smoking.

RUBBISH COLLECTIONS:
The first special rubbish collection for this year, in which household items may be disposed of, will take place on Tuesday for selected streets within the village (including Pinfold Lane onwards). All households included in this collection will be notified by a leaflet left by the refuse collectors.

WHEATON ASTON WIVES’ GROUP:
Today the Wives’ Group will be going on an outing. For further details please telephone Jean Roberts on 01785 840556.

PARISH COUNCIL:
At the recent parish council meeting, during the public participation session, a local resident complained that he was having trouble with members of the public roaming across his land adjacent to Wheaton Aston where there were no footpaths or rights of way, and that dogs were being allowed to run about, regardless of the stress caused to any sheep in the fields. He also pointed out the numerous visits made by scrap men, some of whom had walked around his property looking for scrap without his permission. It was agreed that more signs would be erected about keeping dogs on the lead and that the public should stick to the footpaths and keep off private property; an article would also be put in the next issue of ‘News and Views’ emphasising these points. The district council would be contacted about the scrap men. A lady who had lived in the area for several years complained about the amount of rubbish being left on the Marston Road field and said that she regularly picked up a lot of rubbish to put in the bin. Barbara Cox, the chairman of the parish council, said that someone was paid to litter the field picked on a regular basis and that the village orderly also cleared up rubbish, along with other members of the public, the bins had been moved near to the skate park area and an extra bin had also been installed.
Mrs Jan Wright, the village agent, said that she had been meeting with the various local groups to offer assistance in any way that was appropriate. Residents had pointed out that there was a lack of dental facilities in the area and of public transport to Telford. She had spoken to the Brewood voluntary car scheme group who had said that in the previous year, 216 journeys had been made for Wheaton Aston residents for hospital appointments. They are still seeking more voluntary drivers for the area.
Mel Brown from Natural England, gave reassurance to the parish councillors that public access to the Mottey Meadows would still only be given to permit holders to designated areas for selected periods of time. Visitors would be expected to act in a responsible manner and keep any dogs present on leads. The Friends of Mottey Meadows group would help to support the natural England staff in their work to promote and develop Mottey Meadows as an asset to the area. Currently the group had 25 members but it is hoped that more residents would join. Later in the meeting, a grant of £300 was awarded to the Friends of Mottey Meadows group by the parish council.
No police were able to attend the meeting but a report had been sent in which said there had been 4 incidents of anti-social behaviour. These were in connection with drinking, smoking, and causing litter around the skate park, and climbing onto the scaffolding on the church. All these would be monitored in future. A window had been broken in the empty shop next to the post office but there were no witnesses or CCTV. Concerns had been made about speeding vehicles on the Marston Road. A speed check is to be conducted on a more regular basis to control this.
In his report from the County Council, Rex Roberts said that improvements had been made to the Highways to reduce the excessive number of deaths of motorbike riders. The budgeted expenditure for Staffordshire over a 3 year period for this work is £800,000. Additional revenue had been made available by the Government to tackle the pothole problems, so the refurbishment of the roads would be treated as a priority. The discovery of the gold hoard in Lichfield had generated an immense amount of interest from around England and abroad. It was going to cost one and a half million to clean up the gold, ready to put on show, and for security, and the hoard was to be kept in Staffordshire/the West Midlands. The fire authority PFI 2 for a further 10 fire stations was currently on hold due to the Government’s massive debt problems and all unsigned contracts were being investigated. Rex’s period of chairmanship of the County Council, had now ended. He said that it had been an extremely time consuming task but had had a wide range of interesting duties.
When discussing the planning applications, no objections were made to the planning applications from 33 School Road (single-storey extension) and Park View, Park Lane, Lapley (new garden room/summer house). An application had been received from Lock Cottage, Long Street, for a certification of lawfulness (for the erection of a new dual pitch roof, external walls to be repaired as necessary, and new windows and doors to form ancillary accommodation); the criteria had been met so no objections could be made by the parish council.
The statement of accounts, together with the annual return, had been approved by the independent internal auditor, and these were approved by the parish councillors.
The recommendations made in the report from the Forward Planning and Finance Working Group were approved. These were to take out insurance for the parish council, to purchase IT support from the District Council, and to send a letter to St Mary’s school asking for justification for the 5% rent increase for the clerk’s office which had been backdated to April 1 with no notice given.
The Neighbourhood Highways Team is due to be visiting later in June and the clerk pointed out the outstanding work that would be tackled and these jobs were then prioritised. It was decided that more quotes would be sought for the tree work needed at Lapley churchyard. The signs at the skate park were missing and would have to be replaced. It was reported that none of the children using the skate park had been seen to be wearing helmets and protective pads although the signs there clearly states that helmets and pads should be worn at all times. The RoSPA reports on the Primrose Bank play area and the Marston Road field were satisfactory, with no major faults identified. Two residents are going to plant wild flower seeds in the play area so that the area can benefit from summer flowers.
The parish council was asked to consider nominating a parish councillor to the governing body of St Mary’s First School as the terms of office of two governors are to end soon.
Reports from representatives to other meetings were made. The Old People’s Welfare had had the AGM. Funds were healthy; there were vacancies for the day centre on Monday; a grant is being sought which will be used to replace equipment; a freezer to be sited in the village hall is being considered but the village hall management committee will have to be consulted; forth coming events include a strawberry cream tea drip-in on July 1 and a coffee morning event on July 15. The leisure club had had their AGM. The club members have a lot of activities; membership is full with a waiting list; finances are healthy which enables members to have paid speakers; some Lapley residents have trouble getting to the club due to the lack of transport; Mr and Mrs Bullock who have been organising the outings, wish to hand over this task to a new volunteer. The village hall committee also had an AGM. They still do not have a secretary; discussions took place concerning improvements and it was decided to consult the village agent so that possible funding sources could be suggested. The request for the OPW for the freezer was agreed. The fees are to rise as there had been a deficit last year.
The next parish council meeting will take place on Thursday July 1 at 7.30pm in Wheaton Aston village hall.

WESTON PARK:
The ‘Play in the Park’ this year is ‘Great Expectations’ and is being held on Saturday. The gardens will be open at 5.00pm for picnics and the outdoor performance given by Quantum Theatre, commences at 7.30pm. Please bring your own rugs and low backed chairs.
On Sunday tours are being given around the House entitled ‘What the Butler Saw’ and these will be accompanied by an experienced guide to show what went on behind the scenes, and what goes on today in the servants’ quarters. The tours start at 12 noon and 2.00pm.
Also on Sunday, starting at 11.00am, there will be a tour of the gardens at Weston lasting about 2 hours, led by Martin Gee, the Head Gardener. Martin’s family have lived and worked on the estate for over 250 years and he will explain how the gardens have changed over the centuries to reflect the latest styles and influences.
For further information please telephone 01952 852100.

CHURCH:
The Wheaton Aston and Lapley Church Fete takes place on Saturday, starting at 12.30pm – 3.30pm at St Mary’s First School, Marston Road at which the Grey Coll pipe and drum pipe band will be appearing. The fete will include children’s races and games, singing, a bouncy assault course, belly dancing, and a variety of stalls for plants, home made cakes, white elephant, books, handmade cards, gifts, jewellery making, bottle tombola,chocolate tombola, and a raffle with many prizes. There is a children’s fancy dress competition that is free to enter, with 2 classes for under 5s and 6 - 12s. Refreshments will also be served which will include hot food for lunch with hot dogs, beef burgers, and hot pork baps available. A programme has been delivered to everyone in the area detailing the event.

SERVICES:
On Sunday 9.00am Holy Communion All Saints’; 10.30am Family Service Wheaton Aston village hall.

27th May 2010

SPORTS AND SOCIAL CLUB:
A darts knockout tournament is to be held on Friday June 25. Anyone can enter and the cost is £3.00 per player. Registration starts at 7.30pm for an 8.00pm start. There will be a money prize for first and second places and for the highest checkout.

WESTON PARK:
The Granary Art Gallery is showing an exhibition by 2 artists from June 2 - 29. The artists, Mary Kenyon-Slaney and Faine Meynell, live in Shropshire and show very different and yet seasonally appropriate subject matters. Mary Kenyon-Slaney’s work is of botanical subjects and Faine Meynell paints in oils specialising in landscapes and still life. The Gallery is open daily from 11.00am – 4.00pm and entry is free.
A junior art competition is being run until the end of August. Anyone aged up to 16 years old can enter and entry costs £2.00. Entries should either be framed on canvas or ready to hang. The winner will receive a selection of quality artists’ materials wishing to enter should be aged up to 16 years old

CHURCH:
Programmes for the Church Fete being held on Saturday June 12, will be delivered to households throughout the area shortly. There will be a lucky programme draw at the Fete again this year with a prize for the winner so everyone going should take their copy with them .

SERVICES:
On Sunday 10.30am combined group service St Andrew’s Church Weston-under-Lizard. Anyone needing a lift should contact the church wardens, Joyce Albany or Kath Doyle.

20th May 2010

UNICORN FOLK CLUB:
The Unicorn Folk Club has can be found in the upstairs function room at the Bradford Arms, Ivetsey Bank, Wheaton Aston, next to the A5, every Friday. Tomorrow is singers’ night and will be hosted by Chris Edwards. To book a slot, please telephone 01785 841274. This is open mic night where everyone is welcome to come and join in. For further details, please telephone Vicky Evans on 01902 845400 or visit the website www.unicornfolkclub.co.uk.

VILLAGE TIDY UP:
On Saturday there will be a ‘village clean up session’ where litter and debris will be collected up from around the village and volunteers are needed to help. Anyone that can spare some time should meet in the village hall car park at 10.00am. Plastic sacks and gloves will be provided.

POLICE SURGERY:
A police surgery is to take place outside the Spar shop on Monday, from 1.30pm – 2.30pm, so that residents can find out how the area is being policed and advice/reassurance given where required.

SPORTS AND SOCIAL CLUB:
On Friday ‘Our Trace’, a comedian, will be appearing at the Lapley and Wheaton Aston Recreational Club, starting at 8.00pm. Tickets cost £3.00 and are available from Wheaton Aston post office or on the door.

PARISH COUNCIL MEETING:
At the recent parish council meeting for May, the first part was concerned with the election of officers and representatives to the various organisations and working groups in the parish. Barbara Cox will continue as chair for the next 12 months with Ted Noblett as vice-chair, taking over from Peter Timpson. There were no changes to those councillors already involved with organisations and working groups.
In the public participation session, Brian Punter outlined the building work needed at Wheaton Aston Recreation Ground and asked that the parish council support the application for funding from the district council’s capital and loans scheme. Later in the meeting this was discussed at some length and it was agreed to support this application.
The clerk, Debra Bate, gave a report stating that more information had been requested from the Friends of Mottey Meadows who had asked for funding, and that the two columns in the car park have been cut and painted. A consultation day with the village agent, Janet Wright, is being organised for residents in Lapley and Stretton.
No members of the police had been able to attend but a report had been submitted which said that there had been one attempted burglary in Wheaton Aston – a garage in Marston Road, criminal damage to the vacant shop next to ‘Split Enz’ and anti-social behaviour by youths by the Spar shop and St Mary’s Church. A police surgery will take place on Monday May 24 outside Wheaton Aston Village Hall between 1.30 and 2.30pm.
Roy Wright said he and Brian Cox continue on the district council’s planning committee and that a proposal for 150 chalets to be built on Bradford Estate land had been submitted. Planning applications were discussed with concern over the conversion of existing barns at Longnor Mill Farm and subsequent disturbance to resident bats and nesting sites for birds. There were no objections to the proposals for an installation of a solar panel on the roof of Stable Cottage in Frog Lane, the construction of an outer wall to the existing storage room for beer, etc, at Wheaton Aston Recreation Ground or to the application by Bengal Fusion for their own alcohol licence. Three applications had been refused by the Planning Committee – the two storey side extension at Lodge Park House, Lapley, the change from showroom to restaurant at Castlecroft Garage, Stretton and the renovation of the former Lock Cottages to a single detached bungalow.
The tabled draft accounts and the annual return to the audit commission were accepted. Insurance was discussed and once all quotations have been received, the clerk, chair and vice-chair will, as agreed by those present, choose the one which provides the best cover.
An update of the safety work on the A5 had been provided by Staffordshire Highways, with Phase 2 starting in May 2010. A new website, where problems relating to roads can be reported, is to be trialled by the clerk. Both clerk and chair have been invited to a meeting at South Staffordshire Council Offices regarding the planning for this year’s V Festival and associated traffic. A one-day RoSPA course on routine inspection and maintenance of play equipment is to be attended by interested councillors. Concerns over cars parking in the track between the Marston Road playing fields and St Mary’s First School were voiced and action is to be taken to secure the track. The parish council agreed upon the name of ‘Marston Road Field’ for this play area and the sign will be erected shortly.
A report was given by Wheaton Aston Play Strategy Working Group (WAPSWG). Grant applications are being sought for the Broadholes Lane site. The Playbuilder grant application was successful and discussion has taken place relating to the location of the equipment. An opening ceremony on August 17 2010 is planned. The bid for the BMX track was unsuccessful but WAPSWG can reapply.
The Annual Parish Meeting Report was accepted.
The next parish council meeting will be held on Thursday June 3 at 7.30pm in Wheaton Aston Village Hall.

CHURCH:
On Saturday, there will be a coach trip to Windsor for the day. The cost is £15 per person. For further details or to book, please contact Barbara and Dave Sharratt on 01785 840725.

SERVICES:
On Sunday 10.30am Holy Communion All Saints’.

13th May2010

WHEATON ASTON WIVES’ GROUP:
Today there will be a photo quiz which will be presented by Ray Sturdy, in Wheaton Aston village hall starting at 8.00pm. For further details please telephone Jean Roberts on 01785 840556.

FREAKY FRIDAY’S DISCO:
On Saturday, there will be a Freaky Friday’s disco held in Wheaton Aston village hall, for those aged 12 – 18 years old, from 8.00pm – 11.00pm. Tickets cost 50p. Snacks and soft drinks will be available. For further details, call Suzy on 07891 538369. The no FADS rule will apply – no fighting, no alcohol, no drugs, no smoking.

MORRIS DANCERS:
The Stafford Morris Dancers will be performing at the Hartley Arms on Saturday starting at 8.00pm.

SPRING FAIR:
A spring fair is being held at Old School Court on Saturday from 2.00pm to 4.00pm where there will be cakes, refreshments, toys, books, a bottle stall and a tombola. Everyone is welcome to come.

SPORTS AND SOCIAL CLUB:
Last Saturday, the Wheaton Aston Cricket Club won the home match against Beacon Cricket Club. Wheaton Aston had the winning draw and got 127 for 8 whereas Beacon got 129 for 5. The next home match is on Saturday May 29.
On Friday May 21, ‘Our Trace’, a woman comedian, will be appearing. Tickets cost £3.00 and are available from Wheaton Aston post office or the newsagents, or on the door if not sold out.

CHURCH:
On Sunday, there will be a special joint service at Lapley at 10.30am to celebrate the Watershed Benefice which was the official joining of the 3 parishes together. The Archdeacon of Lichfield, the venerable Chris Liley, will be joining the service. Afterwards a lunch will be served in Wheaton Aston village hall.

SERVICES:
On Thursday 7.30pm Holy Communion All Saints’. On Sunday 10.30am Watershed Service All Saints’ followed by lunch at Wheaton Aston village hall. This special joint service brings together the four congregations to celebrate the official joining of the three parishes into the Watershed Benefice. The Archdeacon of Lichfield, the venerable Chris Liley, will be joining the service. If anyone needs a lift to Lapley, please wait outside St Mary’s at 10.00am. The early prayer meeting on Wednesday from 8.00am – 8.30am will in future be held at All Saints’, Lapley.

6th May 2010

WHEATON ASTON AND LAPLEY WOMENS’ INSTITUTE:
The annual general meeting of the Wheaton Aston and Lapley W.I. will be taking place on Monday evening in the village hall starting at 8.00pm. Everyone is welcome at attend. For further details, please telephone Pearl Thorley on 01785 840602.

SPORTS AND SOCIAL CLUB:
Last Saturday, the Wheaton Aston cricket club won it’s first away match of the season against St Georges. The score for St Georges was 187 for 6 while Wheaton Aston got 184 for 4. On Saturday the first home match of the season takes place at the Lapley and Wheaton Aston Recreational Club in the afternoon, against Beacon. Families are welcome to come and support the team. The bar will be open all day from 2.00pm and bar snacks will be available.

PARISH COUNCIL:
The next parish council meeting is tonight at 7.30pm in Vernon Lodge school hall at Stretton (instead of Wheaton Aston village hall as voting for the general election is taking place there). If anyone has anything that they wish to bring to the attention of the parish council, they are welcome to attend the public participation session that is held at the start of the meeting.

WORKSHOP:
On Saturday, a workshop entitled ‘Portrait and still life photography’ is being run by Sally Hadley from 10.30am – 4.00pm (at a venue to be confirmed later). Sally will give practical tuition on lighting techniques for portrait and still life photography. Due to the amount of manual control needed, a digital SLR camera will be needed, and bring your own lunch. There will be a maximum of 5 places so to book, please call Sally on 01785 841684.

WESTON PARK:
Halls, a Shrewsbury based auctioneer firm, will be in attendance on Friday in the Granary Art Gallery from 1.00am – 2.00pm to give free sales valuations for pictures and works of art, and even accept items for forthcoming sales. There is no need to book for this event.
For further information, please telephone 01952 852100.

CHURCH:
The next informal walk will take place on Tuesday, leaving St Mary’s at 10.00am, and returning to the church afterwards for coffee and cake. Everyone is welcome to come. Walking boots/stout shoes are needed and walkers walk at their own risk. For further details, telephone Brian and Mary Littleford on 01785 840552.
SERVICES:
On Sunday 9.00am Holy Communion All Saints’; 10.30am Family Service St Mary’s.

29th April 2010

WESTON PARK:
There will be 3 ‘bluebell walks’ at Weston Park on either Sunday or Monday with head gardener, Martin Gee. Each walk covers three and a half miles of gardens and parklands through bluebells, rhododendrons, and azaleas and takes in areas of the park not normally accessible to the visiting public. On Sunday the walks start at 10.30am and 2.00pm; on Monday the walk starts at 11.30am.
The new bar and restaurant called ’the Granary Grill’ opens on Saturday. It is situated in the old malt house of the Granary building with an open plan kitchen featuring a large grill. It will be open seven days a week but will be closed on Sunday evenings. Local produce will feature in the menu.
For more information please telephone 01952 852100.

COFFEE MORNING:
A coffee morning is to be held today at 22 Fentonhouse Lane, Wheaton Aston, which is the home of Sue Neeld, from 10.00am – 12.00 noon. All proceeds are for the St Mary’s Development Fund.

CHURCH:
On Sunday, there will be a service in St Mary’s at 6.30pm where favourite hymns and songs will be sung to commemorate 152 years of worship. Lights refreshments will be served afterwards.
The next informal walk will take place on Tuesday May 11, leaving St Mary’s at 10.00am, and returning to the church afterwards for coffee and cake. Everyone is welcome to come. Walking boots/stout shoes are needed and walkers walk at their own risk. For further details, telephone Brian and Mary Littleford on 01785 840552.

SERVICES:
On Sunday 10.30am Holy Communion All Saints’; 10.30am All Age Worship St Mary’s.

22nd April 2010

VILLAGE TIDY UP:
On Saturday there will be a ‘village clean up session’ where litter and debris will be collected up from around the village and volunteers are needed to help. Anyone that can spare some time should meet in the village hall car park at 10.00am. Plastic sacks and gloves will be provided.

FRITILLARY WALK:
The annual village walks around Mottey Meadaow’s national nature reserve to see our nationally rare plant, the snake’s head fritillary (the folfalarum) and other spring flowers, are on Saturday at 2.00pm and Monday at 7.00pm, and the walks will each last about one and a half hours. The meeting point for both walks is outside St Mary’s First School, Marston Road, Wheaton Aston. The walks are suitable for all the family and are free, and are open to anyone who wishes to come. For further details or to book, please contact Caroline Dahn on 0300 060 0583 or email Caroline.Dahn@naturalengland.org.uk.

CHURCH:
On Friday at 7.30pm, the St George’s Night Supper will be held in the village hall starting at 7.30pm. This will be a festive night of the proms and tickets cost £12.50. Soft drinks will be available but bring your own alcohol. This is always a popular event. To check ticket availability, please telephone Marieanne on 01785 840395, or Pearl on 01785 840395.
On Sunday May 2, there will be a service in St Mary’s at 6.30pm where favourite hymns and songs will be sung to commemorate 152 years of worship. Lights refreshments will be served afterwards.
On Sunday May 16, there will be a special joint service at Lapley at 10.30am to celebrate the Watershed Benefice which was the official joining of the 3 parishes together. The Archdeacon of Lichfield, the venerable Chris Liley, will be joining the service. Afterwards a lunch will be served in Wheaton Aston village hall.
Soon St Mary’s will be closed so that the planned refurbishment work can start. Whilst St Mary’s is closed, there will be a service every week at 10.30am at either All Saints, Lapley, or Wheaton Aston village hall. A notice will be posted every week at the Church, the Post Office and the paper shop to say where the service will be the following Sunday.

SERVICES:
On Sunday 9.00am Holy Communion Service at All Saints; 10.30am St George’s Day Parade Service at St Mary’s.

15th April 2010

FLICKS IN THE STICKS:
The next film to be shown for ‘Flicks in the Sticks’ is entitled ‘Glorious 39’ starring Bill Nighy, Julie Christie, Romola Garai, David Tennant and Christopher Lee, and is written and directed by Stephen Poliakoff. The film is set in 1939, at a time of uncertainty and high tension, and the story revolves around the formidable Keyes family, who are keen to uphold and preserve their very traditional way of life. The eldest sibling Anne is a budding young actress who is in love with Foreign Office official Lawrence, but her seemingly perfect life begins to dramatically unravel when she stumbles across secret recordings of the anti-appeasement movement. The film is being shown in Wheaton Aston village hall, on Tuesday, with the doors opening at 7.00pm for a 7.30pm start. Tickets cost £4.50 including refreshments, and are available from Wheaton Aston post office.

CARNIVAL COMMITTEE & WOMEN’S INSTITUTE:
The carnival committee in conjunction with the Women’s Institute are looking for three girls who would be willing to take leading roles in this year’s carnival which takes place on Saturday July 3. The entrants’ names will be entered into a lottery to elect a carnival queen (aged 9 – 10) and two attendants (aged 7 – 8). The entrants must have their parents or guardians consent, and will have to be available to join in the carnival on Saturday July 3. Entry forms are available from Wheaton Aston Post Office where the completed forms should be returned to and put in the ballot box there.

WORKSHOPS:
A series of workshops are being held in the village and anyone interested can apply to take part. Wheaton Aston Arts have successfully obtained a Grassroots grant and so the workshops will be free of charge to those who take part and these will be run by local artists.
Today, a workshop entitled ‘Drawing for Beginners’ is being run by Sarah Lockitt in the village hall from 2.00pm – 4.00pm. All materials will be provided and no experience is needed. There will be a maximum of 10 places so to book, please call Sarah Lockitt on 01952 850936 or email Sarah on sarahlockitt@googlemail.com.
On Friday, Sarah is running a workshop entitled ‘Improve your drawing in five simple ways’ in the village hall from 2.00pm – 4.00pm. All materials will be provided and a basic ability to draw would be useful. There will be a maximum of 10 places so to book, please call Sarah Lockitt on 01952 850936 or email Sarah on sarahlockitt@googlemail.com.
Today and tomorrow, Ray Cowley will be running two workshops entitled ‘How to make a video for You Tube or DVD’ in the village hall from 2.00pm – 4.00pm. This will demonstrate simple video storytelling and is open to all interested but may particularly suit those in their teens. There will be a maximum of 8 places so to book, please call Ray on 01785 840697 or email ray@cowley261.freeserve.co.uk.
On Sunday, a workshop entitled ‘An exploration in colour’ is being run by Mary Davies from 10.30am – 4.00pm (at a venue to be confirmed later). This is a demonstration of how colour is of use to artists and makers young and old. All materials will be provided but Mary asks that you bring a colour picture that interests you and your own lunch. There will be a maximum of 5 places so to book, please call Mary on 01785 841954 or email marybobbin1@aol.com.

FRITILLARY WALK:
The annual village walks around Mottey Meadaow’s national nature reserve to see our nationally rare plant, the snake’s head fritillary (the folfalarum) and other spring flowers, are on Saturday April 24 at 2.00pm and Monday April 26 at 7.00pm. For further details or to book, please contact Caroline Dahn on 0300 060 0583 or email Caroline.Dahn@naturalengland.org.uk.

POLICE SURGERY:
A police surgery is to take place today outside the Spar shop, from 2.00pm – 3.30pm, so that residents can find out how the area is being policed and advice/reassurance given where required.

SPORTS AND SOCIAL CLUB:
On Friday the ‘Ultimate Quiz Night’ will be held at the Lapley and Wheaton Aston Recreation Club, starting at 8.30pm. Everyone is welcome to come. Admission will cost £1 and is free for anyone aged under 14 years old. For further details, please ring Pete Cooper on 01785 840889.

FREAKY FRIDAY’S DISCO:
On Friday, there will be a Freaky Friday’s disco held in Wheaton Aston village hall, for those aged 12 – 18 years old, from 8.00pm – 11.00pm. Tickets cost 50p. Snacks and soft drinks will be available. For further details, call Suzy on 07891 538369. The no FADS rule will apply – no fighting, no alcohol, no drugs, no smoking.

WESTON PARK:
A new dining occasion for 2010 has been created with the menu consisting entirely around chocolate. This will take place on Saturday and will feature 5 courses using different varieties of chocolate to complement each dish. For further information or to book, please telephone 01952 852100.

COFFEE MORNING:
A coffee morning is to be held on Thursday April 29 at 22 Fentonhouse Lane, Wheaton Aston, which is the home of Sue Neeld, from 10.00am – 12.00 noon. All proceeds are for the St Mary’s Development Fund.

CHURCH:
On Friday April 23 at 7.30pm, the St George’s Night Supper will be held in the village hall starting at 7.30pm. This will be a festive night of the proms and tickets cost £12.50. Soft drinks will be available but bring your own alcohol. This is always a popular event. To check ticket availability, please telephone Marieanne Thopmson on 01785 840395, or Pearl Thorley on 01785 840395.
The Church fete this year is taking place on Saturday June 12 and planning for this event has already started. If anyone is willing to help on the day, please telephone Kath Doyle on 10785 840525 or Joyce Albany on 01785 840554 and indicate if you have a preference for a particular stall/job so that this can be taken into consideration.

SERVICES:
On Sunday 9.00am Holy Communion All Saints’; 10.30am Morning Praise St Mary’s. On Wednesday 7.30pm Service of Healing and Wholeness St Mary’s.

8th April 2010

WHEATON ASTON WIVES’ GROUP:
Today there will be a fashion show which will be presented by Tom Speake, in Wheaton Aston village hall starting at 8.00pm. This show is open to any ladies who would like to come. For further details please telephone Jean Roberts on 01785 840556.

FLICKS IN THE STICKS:
The next film to be shown for ‘Flicks in the Sticks’ is entitled ‘Glorious 39’ starring Bill Nighy, Julie Christie, Romola Garai, David Tennant and Christopher Lee, and is written and directed by Stephen Poliakoff. The film is set in 1939, at a time of uncertainty and high tension, and the story revolves around the formidable Keyes family, who are keen to uphold and preserve their very traditional way of life. The eldest sibling Anne is a budding young actress who is in love with Foreign Office official Lawrence, but her seemingly perfect life begins to dramatically unravel when she stumbles across secret recordings of the anti-appeasement movement. The film is being shown in Wheaton Aston village hall, on Tuesday April 20. The doors will be open at 7.00pm for a 7.30pm start. Tickets cost £4.50 including refreshments, and are available from Wheaton Aston post office.

FREAKY FRIDAY’S DISCO:
On Friday April 16, there will be a Freaky Friday’s disco held in Wheaton Aston village hall, for those aged 12 – 18 years old, from 8.00pm – 11.00pm. Tickets cost 50p. Snacks and soft drinks will be available. For further details, call Suzy on 07891 538369. The no FADS rule will apply – no fighting, no alcohol, no drugs, no smoking.

WHEATON ASTON AND LAPLEY WOMENS’ INSTITUTE:
There will be a talk entitled ‘A Day in the Life of a Solicitor’ by Helen Bradin on Monday, starting at 8.00pm in Wheaton Aston village hall. Everyone is welcome at attend. For further details telephone Pearl Thorley on 01785 840602.

WESTON PARK:
The Spring Horse Trials ‘One Day Event’ is run over three days from Friday to Sunday, and incorporates dressage, cross-country and show jumping. Everyone is welcome to attend.
On Sunday, there will be a spring walk led by head gardener, Martin Gee, which will explore Capability Brown’s pleasure grounds as the parks and gardens wake up for the spring. The walk costs £5.00 per person and £3.00 for children, and starts at 10.30am lasting about 2 hours, covering hilly areas and uneven terrain.
Halls, a Shrewsbury based auctioneer firm, will be in attendance on Friday in the Granary Art Gallery from 1.00am – 2.00pm to give free sales valuations for jewellery, watches and coins, and even accept items for forthcoming sales. There is no need to book for this event.
For further information, please telephone 01952 852100.

PARISH COUNCIL MEETING:
At the recent parish council meeting, during the public participation session, Wes Weate reported that there had been a meeting concerning Mottey Meadows, with local residents and staff from Natural England attending. A group called ‘Friends of Mottey Meadows’ has been set up and various events during the year were agreed, such as a quiz night, a visit to Aquelate, a treasure hunt round the village, etc. Any interested residents will be able to join the group. The hay festival is planned to take place on Saturday June 29 when there will be a marquee set up with refreshments available. This event is to promote Mottey Meadows, with displays and walks to show what went on in the past and what is there today.
The clerk, Debra Bate, gave a report after which it was agreed to accept a quote to replace the 3 horse chestnut trees at Wenlock Bank, cut and paint the 2 disused columns in the car park, and to remove a tree stump to make space for the planters.
No members of the police could attend the meeting but a report had been submitted showing that PC Smith and PCSO Price had spent £3000 from funding given to them, on various pieces of equipment, including computer consoles (a Nintendo Wii and a playstation 3), flat screen televisions, DVD players, a lap top computer, a digital camera and security alarms. The DVD and computers will be used to entertain young people in the village hall (in order to reduce anti-social behaviour) ; the Nintendo Wii will be used by older residents who want to keep fit/increase the amount of exercise they do; the laptop computer has wireless internet access so can be used for residents who do not have this facility; the digital camera will be used to record all the events taking place round the village; the fire alarms will be given to residents who wish to improve their security (which will help prevent burglaries occurring) and Brewood Fire Service is coming to do free fire safety visits. A police surgery is to take place on Thursday April 15 outside the Spar shop, from 2.00pm – 3.30pm, so that residents can find out how the area is being policed and advice/reassurance given where required. Police dog Scooby retired from the police service on March 31. Scooby had been welcomed into the village and will be sadly missed.
Mrs Jan Wright, the village agent, reported that she had been familiarising herself with the local area and the various groups that exist. She felt that access (in broad terms covering services, bus routes, community transport, etc) was the biggest problem in the area. She had been investigating funding opportunities for the sports and social club; she asked that a LINK questionnaire concerning the health service be completed by as many people as possible.
Roy Wright told everyone that a meeting had taken place between South Staffs District Council and the V Festival organisers. The traffic arrangements had been discussed in order to move vehicles faster through the areas affected with minimum disruption.
The planning applications were discussed; the previous applications (for land off Bell Hurst Lane, sports and social club and Birchenease, Ivetsey Road) had all been granted but the application for Meadow View, Stretton Road, had been rejected. New applications had been received for 10 High Street (construction of an oak framed garden room extension to rear) and a new build of a 4 bedroom house on land adjacent to 10 High Street, to which no objections were raised. It was reported that the previous application for Lock Cottage had been recommended for refusal by the district council.
A report was given on the recent meeting of Wheaton Aston Play Strategy Working Group (WAPSWG); the foundations had been laid for the skate board park area and was now ready for the metal parts to be installed and the youth shelter had been moved from its original position to nearer the school buildings; the playbuilder grant application for more equipment for the Martson Road field had been successful and a grant of just under £52,000.00 had been awarded; the result of the application for funding for the BMX track will be given in April; funding was still being investigated for the Broadholes Lane play area but 16 fruit trees had been received from the district council and these had been trenched in ground until they can be planted in the appropriate places. The parish council thanked the group for all the hard work and effort that had taken place to date.
It was agreed that additional litter bins be placed at Primrose Bank and Dirty lane and a dog poo bin place by the car park.
The report from the summer play scheme working group was discussed and agreed; there will be 5 trips out at a total cost of £25 per child and smaller coaches used; no bad behaviour will be tolerated; 5 SUSSED sessions will be set up; registration will take place at St Mary’s First School on Monday July 19 at 7.00pm.
The next parish council meeting will take place on Thursday May 6 and the venue will be decided when it is known when the general election is taking place called, as the village hall is used for voting purposes.

CHURCH:
The next informal walk will take place on Tuesday, leaving St Mary’s at 10.00am, and returning to the church afterwards for coffee and cake. Everyone is welcome to come. Walking boots/stout shoes are needed and walkers walk at their own risk. For further details, telephone Brian and Mary Littleford on 01785 840552.

SERVICES:
On Sunday 9.00am Holy Communion All Saints’; 10.30am Holy Communion St Mary’s.

1st April 2010

FUTURE WORKSHOPS:
A series of workshops are soon to be held in the village and anyone interested can apply to take part. Wheaton Aston Arts have successfully obtained a Grassroots grant and so the workshops will be free of charge to those who take part and these will be run by local artists.
On Thursday April 15, a workshop entitled ‘Drawing for Beginners’ is being run by Sarah Lockitt in the village hall from 2.00pm – 4.00pm. All materials will be provided and no experience is needed. There will be a maximum of 10 places so to book, please call Sarah Lockitt on 01952 850936 or email Sarah on sarahlockitt@googlemail.com.
On Friday April 16, Sarah is running a workshop entitled ‘Improve your drawing in five simple ways’ in the village hall from 2.00pm – 4.00pm. All materials will be provided and a basic ability to draw would be useful. There will be a maximum of 10 places so to book, please call Sarah Lockitt on 01952 850936 or email Sarah on sarahlockitt@googlemail.com.
On Thursday April 15 and Friday April 16, Ray Cowley will be running two workshops entitled ‘How to make a video for You Tube or DVD’ in the village hall from 2.00pm – 4.00pm. This will demonstrate simple video storytelling and is open to all interested but may particularly suit those in their teens. There will be a maximum of 8 places so to book, please call Ray on 01785 840697 or email ray@cowley261.freeserve.co.uk.
On Sunday April 17, a workshop entitled ‘An exploration in colour’ is being run by Mary Davies from 10.30am – 4.00pm (at a venue to be confirmed later). This is a demonstration of how colour is of use to artists and makers young and old. All materials will be provided but Mary asks that you bring a colour picture that interests you and your own lunch. There will be a maximum of 5 places so to book, please call Mary on 01785 841954 or email marybobbin1@aol.com.
On Saturday May 8, a workshop entitled ‘Portrait and still life photography’ is being run by Sally Hadley from 10.30am – 4.00pm (at a venue to be confirmed later). Sally will give practical tuition on lighting techniques for portrait and still life photography. Due to the amount of manual control needed, a digital SLR camera will be needed, and bring your own lunch. There will be a maximum of 5 places so to book, please call Sally on 01785 841684.

PARISH COUNCIL:
The next parish council meeting is tonight at 7.30pm in Wheaton Aston village hall. If anyone has anything that they wish to bring to the attention of the parish council, they are welcome to attend the public participation session that is held at the start of the meeting.

WESTON PARK:
Throughout April, there will be an exhibition in the Granary Art Gallery, of work by artist Colin Carruthers. The exhibition will feature landscapes from Britain and Ireland. All works exhibited are for sale. Colin was born in Antrim, Northern Ireland but has now settled in the West Midlands. He travels throughout the country to capture the beauty of the land and the sea within these islands. The Gallery is open daily from 11.00am until 4.00pm and admission is free.
On Sunday and Monday, the Midlands Festival of Transport will take place at Weston Park. This will be a day out for all the family with a vast array of vehicles of all types and ages on display, as well as arena activities and trade areas consisting of all kinds of automobilia and collectibles. The gates open at 10.00am each day.
For further information, please telephone 01952 852100.

CHURCH:
On Easter Sunday, there will be an Easter Bonnet Extravaganza at St Mary’s where all decorated hats will be judged and prizes awarded to the best.
A Good Friday workshop is to be held in St Mary’s from 10.00am – 12 noon tomorrow. All first school age children welcome. For more information please telephone Anne on 01785 840656.
When St Mary’s Church closes for the development work to begin, the pews will be offered for sale at a cost of £50 each. Anyone interested in purchasing one should contact Kath Doyle on 01785 840525 or Joyce Albany on 01785 840554 so that the chosen pew can be marked on the master plan and you will be notified when it is available. If used externally as a garden bench for example, the pew would need treating with outdoor wood preservative.

SERVICES:
On Thursday 7.30pm Holy Communion St Mary’s. On Friday 3.30pm Evening Prayer All Saints’; 7.30pm Holy Communion St Mary’s. On Sunday 9.00am Holy Communion All Saints’; 10.30 Holy Communion St Mary’s.

SPORTS AND SOCIAL CLUB:
Two events are taking place at the Lapley and Wheaton Aston Recreation Club. On Friday, there is a darts tournament which starts at 7.30pm. On Saturday, an Easter party is being held from 2.00pm – 4.00pm for children aged under 14 years at which there will be an Easter egg hunt, egg decorating and party games. Entry costs £1.00 and snacks and drinks will be available to buy. For further details, please telephone Pete Cooper on 01785 840899.