Car Policing

The increased police activity around Chesham last week was due to car crime. Thames Valley Police force was assisting the Metropolitan Police Service in Chesham with a number of search warrants relating to an investigation into car crime offences in the London and Chesham areas. The Chesham neighbourhood team patrolled the areas such as Deansway, throughout the day to update residents and community leaders in order to provide reassurance and discuss any concerns. Read more.

Afraid Of Falling Over?

Falls are common in older people. One in three over 65 year olds will fall in any one year, and that that rises to one in two among the over 80s. Reduced strength, balance and speed of reaction may turn a slip, trip or stumble into a fall. But falling is not an inevitable result of growing older. While some falls are unavoidable many can be prevented. Research shows that for many people who are at high risk of falling one of the most effective interventions is strength and balance training. The Get Fit, Avoid Falls programme is designed to help people over 60 improve their strength and balance in a friendly group setting. They are held in leisure or community centres across the county from April. To find out more call Lucie Posnett on 0844 2252 403. Lucie is the Get Fit Avoid Falls Co-ordinator at Buckinghamshire Falls Prevention Team, Oakridge Centre, 240 Desborough Road, High Wycombe Bucks HP11 2QR. For information about falls and bone health generally see www.bucksfallsprevention.co.uk.

Healthzone Building Will Start in March

You will have noticed there have been a few delays with the Chesham Healthzone. Deborah Taylor, Partnership Development Manager of Buckinghamshire Primary Care Trust told members of the Chesham Action Partnership (ChAP) said, “Although the site at Berkhampstead Road has been cleared and prepared for the new building, the works cannot get underway until all the appropriate Heads of Terms for the leases have been signed by both the practices concerned and all legalities completed. NHS Buckinghamshire anticipates this will happen within the next few weeks and that works would therefore be starting during March.”

Police Station Is Open 10am – 2pm

Chesham police station re-opened to the public on Monday 22 February. It closed in September because extensive improvements were needed. Now it has a more energy efficient, heating system, new motion detector lighting which means lights will automatically switch on when someone enters the room and turn off shortly after they have left, and new windows which not only offer better security but are more energy efficient. The station has also upgraded its telephone and computer connections so officers and staff can access shared information more quickly and can work faster. The front counter has also undergone some work and a back office has been added so the duty officer can now carry out confidential work. Sgt Ricky Timms, who works at Chesham police station, said the renovations have made it a better place to work, “The difference it’s made is incredible. We can work faster and more efficiently which is a plus for both the Force and the public.” The renovations were paid for by Thames Valley Police’s Adaptive Build Fund, which is used to adapt existing buildings in towns where there is a real need for a police station. As the police station in Chesham is central to the town, it was decided to use the fund to make improvements to the existing station. Opening hours for the public are 10am to 2pm Monday to Friday. Find the opening times of local police stations from their website or call 0845 8 505 505.

Clearing Your Car Campaign

A new campaign has been launched in a bid to reduce levels of car crime. Police Community Support Officers from Thames Valley Police and Officers from Chiltern District Council’s Community Safety and Civil Enforcement will record details of vulnerable vehicles. Motorists who leave valuables on display will be sent letters warning that their vehicles are at risk from thieves. Thames Valley Police Crime Reduction Advisor, Mike Levine said, "We hope that encouraging vehicle owners to remove temptation will limit thieves’ opportunities. Simply hiding items isn't enough. The glove box or under the seat are the first places thieves will look for your sat-nav." There has been a rise in theft from motor vehicles. It’s not just in car parks or when you are away from home that you should remove valuables and secure your car. Cars are also vulnerable at home on your driveway. In Chiltern 62 per cent of vehicles which had items stolen during a three month period were unlocked at the time of the incident. Many criminals are opportunists who travel into the area looking for unlocked cars. For further information and advice please visit www.chiltern.gov.uk/communitysafety or call the Thames Valley Police non-emergency number on 0845 8 505 505 and ask to speak with your local Crime Reduction Officer.

NAG Gallops into Town - Thurs 18 Feb

Chesham area Neighbourhood Action Groups (NAG) is holding its first meeting in the Town Hall, Chesham on Thursday 18 February at 7.30pm. (The date was changed from Monday 1 February 2010 due to the Post Office meeting). If you are interested just pop along or telephone the chair, Alison Pirouet on 01494 778985. Neighbourhood Action Groups (NAGs) are a key part of Neighbourhood Policing in Thames Valley. A NAG is a multi-agency, problem-solving group comprising relevant partner agencies, key stakeholders as well as members of the community. NAGs focus their work on the main priorities that are identified after consultation with the local community. Members, who are all volunteers, are responsible for achieving certain tasks on behalf of their neighbourhood. To get involved call 0845 8 505 505 which is the Thames Valley Police non-emergency number and ask to speak to a representative from your local Neighbourhood Policing team. Or you can enquire about joining by visiting your local police station. NAGs attract a broad and diverse membership with a variety of skills and experience such as local authority/district council representatives, youth services, housing managers, environmental officers, head teachers, licensees, neighbourhood watch coordinators and police officers. Administrative, practical and communication skills are all highly valued. Under-represented groups, such as young people and people who are disabled, are encouraged to join. Visit www.thamesvalley.police.uk/%5Cyournh-nag.

Fair Funding For Your Village Hall

Buckinghamshire Community Funding Fair will held at the Green Park Centre, Aston Clinton, near Aylesbury on Monday 15 March from 2.30 – 7.30pm. The fair will help people to improve their grant applications to funding organisations such as the lottery. The event will include a presentation by a grants officer from the Big Lottery Fund at 3.30pm. Community organisations will have an opportunity to meet representatives from various grant giving organisations. Formal 20 minute appointments are available with specific funders, or you could visit the exhibition during the open session times and meet as many funders as are available. The event is free to all attendees. Please come prepared with information about the work that you need funding, to make the most of this opportunity. To book a place at the Lottery talk or to make an appointment with a funder, please ring Liz Evans on 01296 585256 or email levans@aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk before Friday 5 March. The event has been organised by Chiltern District Council in partnership with Aylesbury Vale District Council, and has been funded by Buckinghamshire County Council. Green Park Centre, Stablebridge Road, Aston Clinton, Aylesbury HP22 5NE.

Post Office Soon For The 3,500 Users Per Week

The Post Office will re-open on Monday 22 February at the same site, 81 High Street. A temporary sub postmaster had been appointed who has experience and ran a number of other post offices across the country. The meeting called by the Mayor Cllr Justine Fulford last Monday 1 February and held at the only venue in town large enough, Trinity Baptist Church, Waterside was attended by about 150 people. Officials were Martine Munby an External Relations Manager from Royal Mail, together with Stewart Swabey and Peter Wilkinson who are Field Change Advisors from Post Office Limited. Pertinent questions from the public were answered and the petition signed by 1,300 people was presented. Justine welcomed the re-opening but said, “We have to be aware that when interested parties investigate tendering for the franchise, they may not consider that 81 High Street fits their business plan. If the preferred applicant chooses a different address, there has to be a 14 week public consultation process before a move is approved. Watch out for the notices.” And note, the sub-postmaster is only temporary. Thanks to everyone for fighting for a solution to this debacle, did you know that before its closure, some 3,500 people used the facility each week?
See previous pieces - Wednesday, 3 February 2010 Post office future – the latest and Thursday, 28 January 2010, Post Office Future - Meeting 1 Feb.

Sixth Annual Mayoral Awards – Nominate Now

The Mayor Cllr Justine Fulford has launched the 2010 mayoral awards and is calling for nominations. The scheme was established in 2004 by the then mayor, Cllr Mohammad Bhatti to recognise people who do good work in the community. There are three awards. The People’s Award is for those who have helped the well-being, advancement and welfare of people in Chesham or carried out voluntary work for the benefit of the town or its environment. The Rafe Chiles Young Person’s Award was set up to act as an inspiration and in long standing memory of Rafe’s good work with young people in the community. This award is open to a young person (or group) aged up to 25, who have made a positive difference to the lives of young people in Chesham. The Business Award is supported by the Chesham Chamber of Trade and Commerce to celebrate businesses or and retail outlets which contribute through community projects, environmental activities, educational activities or charitable/voluntary work.
Nomination forms detailing the criteria are available from the Town Hall or can be downloaded from www.chesham.gov.uk. Each nomination should be completed by both the proposer and seconder and returned to the Town Hall by Wednesday 31 March 2010. The awards will be presented by the Mayor at the Annual Town Meeting on Thursday 13 May at the Town Hall.

Mastering Manicure

Learn basic nail care, filing, cuticle treatment and nail varnish on a free fun course at Wallington House Community Centre, Wallington Road, Chesham, HP5 2NZ. It is hosted by the Asheridge Vale and Lowndes Community Association for Buckinghamshire Adult Learning so to book your place call 0845 045 4040 or email studentenquiries@buckscc.gov.uk. It will be on Tuesday 9 March from 10am - 1pm. Course Code: F4HB01AHO. Calls are welcome via Typetalk prefix 18001. Typetalk or Text Relay connects deaf, hard of hearing and speech impaired people using a textphone with people using a telephone or another textphone. It is a partnership between the Royal National Institute for Deaf People (RNID) and British Telecomm (BT).

Vacancy at CREC

Chiltern Racial Equality Council is looking for a project assistant to help promote inter-faith community events in the Chilterns. The post is part-time, up to 12 hours a week, including some weekend and evening work, and temporary, ending Wednesday 30 June 2010. Closing date for applications is Friday 19 February. Vanessa Worship, Office Manager said, “For further details please contact the council on 01494 786398 or send your CV to admin@chilternrec.org.uk, Chiltern Racial Equality Council, Room 5, The White Hill Centre, White Hill, Chesham, Bucks. HP5 1AG." Chiltern Racial Equality Council, 1969-2009 - 40 years celebrating diversity in our community.

Post office future – the latest

Mayor Cllr Justine Fulford continues her campaign to get this essential service reinstated and she succeeded in getting post office officials to a public meeting in Chesham on Monday 1 February. Justine says, “It was great that so many people were able to make it to the meeting, many for a second time, but especially good that our friends from the Post Office were there. Everything did make a bit more sense with answers from the experts and I was pleased to hand over to them the hastily gathered petition which nevertheless had approximately 1300 signatures on it. In turn, they were able to announce that they had managed to bring forward the re-opening date at 81 High Street to Monday 22 February. What the Post Office seemed particularly keen to emphasise was that they have no funding to secure premises and that they don't anticipate being able to make an exception in Chesham. It's a shame that the £1.7bn made available to put the network on a 'more stable footing' from 2007-08 was in the main used to compensate sub-postmasters who were closed down, and not actually invested in the remaining branches. Whilst we should all be pleased that we don't have to wait too much longer to get back an operating Post Office, we also have to be very aware that when interested parties investigate tendering for the franchise, they may not consider that 81 High Street fits their business plan. If the preferred applicant chooses a different address, there has to be a 14 week public consultation process before a move is approved - watch out for the notices.”

Voluntary and Community Sector Conference - Reserve Your Place

Voluntary Action South Bucks’ annual voluntary and community sector conference, Surviving and Thriving will be held on Wednesday 3 March at Latimer Place near Chesham. Debra Allcock Tyler, Chief Executive of the Directory of Social Change will be the keynote speaker and workshops will be available on: What’s Important when Representing the Voluntary Sector; IT Security—Survival in the Digital Era; How to Write Compelling Marketing Words; Planning your Fundraising Strategy and Volunteers with Expert Skills. Last year the conference was oversubscribed and some people had to be turned away so you need to book early. Contact Voluntary Action (Chiltern and South Bucks), c/o SBDC Offices, Capswood, Oxford Road, Denham, Bucks UB9 4LH, call 01895 837545 or visit www.voluntaryaction.org.

Don’t Give Your Christmas Gifts To Burglars

People are urged to put security at the top of their New Year’s resolution list by property marking valuable Christmas presents as soon as possible. Unfortunately, every year Christmas gifts are stolen, sometimes they are recovered but cannot be returned because they are unidentifiable. You can stop this happening to you by property marking your gifts and making a note of their make and serial numbers. Cllr Noel Brown, cabinet member for community safety said, "Thieves hate marked items because they can be identified and are just too hot to handle." Free property marking kits and property marked stickers are available from Chiltern District Council offices in Amersham throughout January. If you have been lucky enough to get a bicycle for Christmas, please contact the Community Safety Officer at Chiltern District Council on 01494 732089 who will supply you with a bike marking wrap-around label.

Post Office Future - Meeting 1 Feb

The rescheduled public meeting about the future of the Chesham Post Office will be on Monday 1 February 2010 at 7pm. It will be held at Trinity Baptist Church, Red Lion Street and this time the Post Office intends to be represented. If you will be travelling by car, you are advised to use the nearest car park to the church which is Water Meadow Car Park off St Mary’s Way. Church parking is restricted to those with mobility difficulties. To clarify, MP Cheryl Gillan apparently did not receive her invitation and that is why she didn’t attend the last meeting, although she sent her apologies.
The Mayor Cllr Justine Fulford received some good news on Friday which will be explained in full. Chesham Town Cllr Chris Spruytenburg said “The public needs to reassured that all the elements which led to this fiasco have been sorted out once and for all”.

Working Together for a Safer Chiltern

Chiltern's Community Safety team together with neighbourhood police and Bucks Fire and Rescue Service are out in the community next month offering crime reduction advice and equipment to local residents. On Monday 1 February from 8am to noon they will be at Sainsburys car park, Chesham, and on Tuesday 2 February from 8am to noon at Tesco, Old Amersham. Free ultra-violet pens, timer switches, personal alarms, bike marking kits and bike locks will be on offer to help you put the crime reduction advice to use.

Which Business Helps the Community?

Chesham Town Mayor, Cllr Justine Fulford, in conjunction with Chesham Chamber of Trade and Commerce has launched the Mayoral Business Award for 2010. The award is open to businesses and retail outlets that make a positive contribution to the town. This can be in a variety of ways, such as involvement in community projects, environmental activities, educational projects or voluntary work. A business can nominate itself, or be nominated by someone outside the business. The 2009 winner was Newtown Garage for their contributions to many community activities, not least their on-going support of the annual Schools of Chesham Carnival a major fundraising event for both local schools and organisations. The deadline for nominations is Wednesday 31 March. You can get a simple form from the Town Hall (open 10am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday), call 01494 774842 or email townhall@chesham.gov.uk. The form can also be downloaded from www.chesham.gov.uk.

Post Office Didn't Show

The Post Office were frightened of snow apparently, so they just didn't show at the public meeting to discuss the debacle since its closure here (see our previous piece). The Mayor, Cllr Justine Fulford said, "They were a laughing stock." MP Cheryl Gillan didn't turn up but had a reason - she hadn't received an invitation! The large crowd are invited to attend another meeting next Monday 1 February at 7pm. There could be some good news.
A summary of the situation has been posted on Facebook by Helen Piper - Chesham Post Office Action Group. (I hope this link works).
If you wish to contact the Post Office and make a complaint the details are: Customer Service Centre PO Box 740 Brampton Barnsley S73 0ZJ Telephone 0845 7223344 email customercare@postoffice.co.uk.

We Want Our Post Office Back

Tonight, Wednesday 20 January (snow permitting*) there will be a public meeting to discuss the Post Office calamity and re-opening options.
The Mayor Cllr Justine Fulford said, “I have informed the three main players and hopefully they will be able to attend to explain why the matter hasn't been given the priority it deserves. Together we will be able to discuss proposals for temporary solutions and also the long term security of the Post Office counter in Chesham.” All residents of and interested parties are welcome to attend on Wednesday 20 January 2010 at 7pm at Chesham Town Hall, Baines Walk, Chesham HP5 1DS. Representatives from the Post Office will be there and all local councillors and the MP Cheryl Gillan have also been invited.
Do your own research. Some interesting information can be accessed from these links http://www.psc.gov.uk/post-offices/research.html and http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/+/http://www.berr.gov.uk//sectors/postalservices/UK%20Policy/page28878.html.
For further info please contact Chesham Town Council on admin@chesham.gov.uk or call 01494 774842. Apparently access criteria states that 95% of the general population should be within one mile of a post office.
(*if unavoidable it will be postponed until Thursday 28 January.)

Learning How to Grow Food

Return To Learning courses are free for learners who do not have qualifications above Level 2 (5 GCSEs or equivalent). The first one - Grow Your Own Vegetables, course code: Z5GA57AAM will be on Fridays for five weeks from Friday 15 January 2010 until Friday 12 February. The second is learn how to Grow Your Own Food, course code: Z5GA58AAM also on Fridays for five weeks from Friday 26 February until Friday 26 March. They are on from 12.45 - 2.45pm at the Chesham Adult Learning Centre at Chesham Park Community College, Chartridge Lane. Visit www.adultlearningbcc.ac.uk. To book a place please phone 0845 045 4040 and quote the course code.

Was Alfred Burt VC a Cheshamite?

Regarding Alfred Burt VC, see Another Famous Cheshamite
Keith Fletcher author and Chesham museum researcher said, “I had included Alfred Burt in my list of Chesham People, Personalities and Achievers that I publish in Town Talk magazine. However on investigation I found that he was not a Chesham man and didn't come here until 1925 when he became landlord of the New Inn, Waterside. He was a Hertfordshire man and served in a Hertfordshire Regiment and won his VC long before he became a Cheshamite. I would in no way denigrate his brave deed but since I have a long list of people who were born here or achieved their success whilst living here, I put him well down towards the bottom of my list."
Brian Shrieve said he believes The Legion was presented with a plaque made in hardwood with gold lettering by the family of Alfred Burt VC. "It was placed in a position for all to see, but as you know the fire destroyed everything of this nature. Enquiries have been made to replace it, the best we can.” Alison Pirouet said, “There is quite a lot of information on Alfred Burt if you go to the Gamekeepers Lodge pub, and look on the wall." Do you think he should be considered at Cheshamite and deserving commemoration by having a road named after him (if that were possible)?

Family Information Service (FIS) from BCC

Children and young people can enjoy a variety of free activities on Monday 18 January including drama, sport, cheerleading sessions and information fairs at selected Children's Centres and schools across the county, to mark the launch of the Buckinghamshire Family Information Service (FIS). The FIS is a new service which will create a one stop shop for information and advice on a wide range of activities, events and services available to families with children up to the age of 19 living in Buckinghamshire. Areas covered as part of the service include childcare, family leisure activities and things to do, as well as advice on disabilities, benefits, health, schools, colleges, work and volunteering. The events are being organised by Buckinghamshire County Council and the activities are being provided by a selection of organisations registered with the FIS. Highlights of the week include activities specially designed for babies and pre-school children, including messy play, sign and rhyme, singing and stories, baby massage and music sessions at Chesham Waterside Children's Centre. There will be taster activity sessions for children on drama, sport, cheerleading, crafts, karate and dance, while parents and carers find out about other activities and services in their area, at Brushwood Junior School. Food tasting sessions and information fairs tailored for young people to find out about volunteering, drugs and alcohol support, sexual health advice, apprenticeships and local activities will be on at Chesham Park Community College.
The FIS was formerly the Children's Information Service and successfully provided advice and support to parents with younger children. It has now expanded the scope of the information it holds to include guidance and information for young people of up to 19 years and their parents and carers. The FIS is accessible by phone, email, text and a new dedicated website www.bucksfamilyinfo.org, which includes an online directory searchable by postcode, keyword or category. Call 0845 688 4944 (9.30am - 4.30pm Monday to Friday), email familyinfo@buckscc.gov.uk, visit www.bucksfamilyinfo.org or text 07786 202920 with your question.

Another Famous Cheshamite

A member of the public has suggested there should be some recognition of Alfred Burt, VC. A A Burt won the Victoria Cross when he saved his battalion from an unexploded shell in their trench in 1915. Between the wars Burt was the landlord of the New Inn at Waterside. Keith Fletcher and Peter Hawkes mentioned it in their book Pubs of Chesham and Villages. Poor health stopped Alfred serving during the Second World War, although he was also one of the Victoria Cross holders who attended the Victory Day celebration reception in June 1946. Alfred Burt died on 9 June 1962 at Tindal General Hospital, Chesham, Buckinghamshire, aged 67. Can anyone add any anecdotes to our knowledge? Cllr Colette Littley has suggested Alfred’s name be used as a street name when next a development is planned. However it is the developer who chooses the names, in cooperation with the Post Office - the town council can only make recommendations.

Keeping the Kids Busy

The January to March 2010, Children's Centre (Newtown) Chesham timetable is now out. Danielle Appleby, Family Support Worker said, “I hope you find it of interest”. For Newtown Children's Centre in Berkhamstead Road HP5 3AT, contact Danielle Appleby on 01494 778037, 07799 181215, email dlappleby@buckscc.gov.uk.
The new timetable for January to March 2010 is also out for Waterside Children’s Centre. To find out about the large range of activities, contact Caroline Campion, 470 Waterside, Chesham, HP5 1QF call 01494 792852.

Peter Pan - Fly to the Panto Before It Closes

Hurry to see Peter Pan, the traditional fun-filled pantomime this year at the Elgiva Theatre, St Mary's Way, Chesham, Bucks, HP5 1HR. Held in association with Newpalm Productions and SSTTR Productions and sponsored by the Buckinghamshire Examiner, it runs until Sunday 3 January 2010.

Who Knew Philip Sidney Beck born in 1921?

The mayor Cllr Justine Fulford, has been asked about a missing World War II airman P S Beck. The last known address of his family was ‘Moira’, Eskdale Avenue, Chesham, Bucks. Philip Sidney Beck was born 10 May 1921 and his service number was 116535. During WW II airman Beck was in a Stirling BF505 radioletter “Z”, which was shot down on 5 May 1943 near Murmerwoude, a village about five miles south of the town of Dokkum in the northern part of the Netherlands. Five of the crew were killed but Beck and two others spent the rest of the war in a prisoner of war camp. D.S. Drijver of the research group Friesche Luchtvaart Documentatie 1939-1945 explained: “Since the early seventies our group has taken an interest in the history of the air war over the northern part of the Netherlands during World War II. In co-operation with the ‘Stichting Missing Airmen Memorial Foundation’ and the local Resistance Museum we aim to gather as much information as possible about the aircraft-crashes and their aftermath, in order to make a historically correct reconstruction. Over the years, our research brought us in contact with many former airmen, pilot-helpers and other researchers all over the world. In some cases we have been able to clear up the fate of pilots who were reported missing in action. On a few occasions we also succeeded in returning recovered personal items from the flyers to their families.” Even if you didn’t know airman P S Beck perhaps you know the house number? Email Justine Fulford justine.fulford@btinternet.com.

The Chess Undignified in a Culvert

Have you been wondering about the barricades in Market Square? The Town Centre Working Group was told by Chris Schwier of Transport for Buckinghamshire that barriers had been erected around the frontages of properties on one side of Market Square to prevent vehicles driving or stopping there. A survey has identified a structural problem with the culvert and until the issue is resolved, the amount of weight loaded on top of the culvert will be restricted. Chesham Building Society is liaising with the county council’s Bridges team to resolve the issue and there is no known timescale for a solution, although it is expected that it may take some months to solve. As part of his Getting Closer to Communities work, Chesham Town Council will monitor the barriers to ensure that they are not moved. There is confusion over the ownership of the culvert. Chris explained that when the Environment Agency enmained the culvert in 2008 they only took over responsibility for the river bed and the culvert structure remains the responsibility of the riparian owner.
I wish we could un-culvert the Chess and have our own stream meandering through Market Square.

Free Parking in Much Envied Chesham

Do do your Christmas shopping in Chesham. And park for free in Watermeadow car park on Saturday 19 December, and Saturday 26 December.
I was speaking to a friend and long-time resident of Chesham who says that every time she has visitors from elsewhere they praise the town centre and the shops we have. They often buy things here they cannot find in their locality.

Party on Christmas day

The Christmas day party arrangements are coming on well. Older people who will be on their own on Christmas day have been invited. The mayor Cllr Justine Fulford (who must be the most hands-on mayor we’ve ever had) said there have been donations as usual from Little Chalfont, Amersham and Chesham councils, and the Ley Hill Flower Club. Waitrose is donating Christmas cakes and Sainsbury's are giving mince pies. An additional donation has come from Watermeadow Surgery – the proceeds from sales of second hand books.

Mayoral Update on The Post Office

Cllr Justine Fulford has been busy trying to bring the post office back to Chesham in time for Christmas but she has had to admit defeat. She told us, "Following a meeting on site on Monday last between the freeholder, his agent and myself, I am happy to report that the freeholder, with a better understanding of Chesham and its future, is now much more amenable to allowing the Post Office in on a temporary agreement. This is the best chance we have of a counter service being in place before a new sub-postmaster is appointed. However, due to the added complication of a lease surrender, even with the best will in the world and the freeholder's early instruction to his agent (not yet received) the legal documents are unlikely to be processed in time for the Post Office to restock, reconnect to the network, and reopen this week. Even next week will be a push because of the approaching holiday, but the Post Office is keen to make things happen quickly once the temporary sub-postmaster is granted a licence to occupy."

Choral Music on 19 in Amersham

South Bucks Choral Society conducted by Iain Ledingham present an evening of music, followed by mulled wine and mince pies, at historic old St Mary's Church in Old Amersham on Saturday 19 December at 7.30pm. Tickets £10 from choir members, by phoning 01494 722122 or at the door on the night. Earlier, from 3.30 to 4pm the church will host free concert for younger children.
More on these and other Amersham area stories in Chiltern Voice Amersham.

Watery Question Answered

In answer to the 'watery questions' posed in Chiltern Voice last week, Allen Beechey tells us the following. Veolia have owned Three Valleys Water for some time now (certainly for the last nine years) along with several other companies such as Folkstone and Dover and Tendring Hundred. He guesses that they have decided to bring the Veolia Water brand more to the fore and renamed all of their regional water companies for a more transparent corporate image.

Hawridge pumping station has been operational for many years and whilst it is within the Chess groundwater catchment, it does not take water directly from the river, rather it takes water from the aquifer. Whether that has an indirect effect on flows in the Chess is a matter for debate, but it is worth noting that Hawridge is not included within the Environment Agency's low flows investigations (known as Restoring Sustainable Abstraction programme) for the Chess. The reason behind this is that Hawridge is not viewed to have a significant effect on flows within the river. Certainly, abstractions within Chesham are much more likely to have an impact on the river. Currently Hawridge is being refurbished, but once completed it will recommence pumping and will be able to abstract up to its 9ML/d license limit. In practice however, it will abstract less than this for most of the year. Hawridge does not supply Aylesbury but supplies the Tring Halton and Wendover areas. Thames Water bring in water from their Thames sources to assist with this supply.

Next year’s Victorian evening will be on Friday 26 November 2010

The dedicated team of enthusiastic volunteers who organized the late night shopping last Friday evening are all thanked by the Chesham Chamber of Trade & Commerce and Chesham’s Mayor Cllr Justine Fulford. The main sponsor was Waitrose Chesham Essential Range and personal thanks go to Robin Benford for his help. The Waitrose people in Victorian dress, were present on the High Street serving free food and drink. The Buckinghamshire Examiner, the Chesham Action Partnership, Domestic Services, and Gilberts Taxis are also thanked for their generous sponsorship. It was a great night - helped by better weather than the past two years. After the Winter Parade led by the Town Crier, local school children and the Elgiva panto cast, the Mayor switched on the Christmas lights. As well as all the fun of the fair including a grand Victorian carousel, more than 30 stalls were on the High Street. Charities, schools and voluntary organisations were raising money for good causes (the Scouts raised £200) and many shops and businesses were open late. The shop window competition was won by Perfect Pitch - do go along and see their efforts.

Appeal Gratitude

Vanessa Worship of the Chiltern Racial Equality Council tells us that their quiz last Friday night at the Victorian shopping evening was very successful, “We raised nearly £15 for the ZEST Appeal on behalf of the Zimbabwean refugees”. The correct answers to the questions were (1) when was the Chiltern REC established – 1969; (2) what percentage of Chesham’s population is of Chinese origin - 0.3 percent; and (3) the number of places of worship in Chesham - 23. Congratulations to Frances Sones of Bellingdon Road who won a Portable Stereo CD Player and Radio. I am impressed at Vanessa’s positive approach.

Tree Dressing Last Saturday at Shelley Road Gardens, Chesham

Trees at Shelley Road Gardens waved arm branches full of kites, ribbons, decorations and messages following the Tree Dressing event on Saturday 28 November. Tree dressing is based on many customs from all over the world, and highlights everyone’s responsibility for looking after trees and the planet. It was hosted by Pond Park Community Association with Paradigm Housing Group in partnership with Chiltern District Council and Chesham Town council. Decorations for the trees were made by schools and groups including the Pond Park Community Association, Pond Park Over-30s People’s Group, Paradigm Housing and Connaught (its maintenance partner). The Shelley Road footpath renovation project has been funded through the Big Lottery Fund, BBC Breathing Spaces campaign, Paradigm Housing and CDC.

Hivings Free Church held its own event in the morning, offering local people the chance to put laminated messages of hope or remembrance into trees there before moving on the Shelley Road.

Chesham’s Youth Qualify

The Youth Council has been put forward for an award from Chiltern District Council Community Awards as a community group. A Group Award is made to a group which has voluntarily contributed skills and time to the benefit of a community in Chiltern District, and the Youth Council has certainly done that. Their recent leaflet Just Say No is well researched listing useful sources of help and a harrowing description of his/her addiction from a genuine – and I hope ex-addict. Chesham Youth Council (CYC) is a non-political body of young people between the ages of 12-18. The purpose of the Chiltern District Council Community Awards is to raise the profile of volunteering in the area. Volunteers in our community help improve the quality of life for many people young and old. A Group Award is made to a Group which has voluntarily contributed skills and time to the benefit of a community in Chiltern District. An adjudication panel will select the winners and the presentation of awards will be made on Friday 4 December 2009 at noon in a ceremony at The Council Chamber at Chiltern District Council's offices.

Re Post Office in the High Street

The post office will reopen in a week or two - just for the weeks to cover the Christmas period. The mayor Cllr Justine Fulford said, "Extraordinary news, and unexpected, I didn't think I had got anywhere with my appeal." Unfortunately the front of the shop has been left in a bit of a state and has to be made safe, so it cannot be opened until that is sorted. See Post Office Gone.

The picture shows all the scrawled notices, but progress inside for the reopening looks well underway.

Post Office Gone

The sudden and unexpected closure of the post office from the High Street is a blow to the whole community. It is especially difficult for those without transport. The queues at the Greenway Parade post office where service has always been excellent, have lengthened and Chesham people have travelled to Amersham too and are asking what is being done. (Beware the Greenway Post Office closes closes at 1pm on Wednesday and Saturdays.) It is worrying that the central post office in a town of more than twenty thousand people, can be based in a building not controlled by Post Office Ltd or Royal Mail. However thanks to the Mayor Cllr Justine Fulford’s persistence, two members of Post Office Ltd have made it a priority to discuss the options. Options seem to be limited and slow, namely: to install a Portakabin in one of the car parks - but this requires permission from Chiltern District Council; or to use the existing premises - but the landlord is difficult to contact. Post Office Ltd needs not only a premises but also a sub-postmaster. Another solution may be to take up the kind offer from Prasan Patel who ran the post office at Waterside for twenty years until the licence was taken away, and still runs the shop there. He has offered to help wherever the Chesham post office is situated, to work long hours or even to re-house it back again in Waterside.
What a time for this to happen, with the added need for Christmas postage, and this week I received a Christmas card from Royal Mail for goodness sake. Other ideas for housing a post office might be to find an empty premises on the High Street – but a business rates reduction is probably too cumbersome to arrange at short notice; to use the George and Dragon car park which would need to be brought up to Park Mark standard; or to use space in one of the bailed-out banks eg. Lloyds or NatWest.
When Marlow’s High Street post office branch closed in April 2007, a Portakabin was not in place until February 2008 but it is still there. It seems no time since we objected to the closure of the post office at Waterside when we were told that the High Street branch was more central to serve most of the population.

Parking Restrictions

The town council is concerned about some parking proposals, so they have put a prominent link to the information on their website. Within Chesham the areas of Cameron Road/Turner Walk and East Street/Red Lion Street/Punch Bowl Lane will have new parking restrictions, proposed by Bucks County Council. The Town Council recognises that it is the local residents’ views that matter, so it is encouraging everyone to respond to the consultation which runs until the Thursday 3 December 2009.

Parents Find Out About Education Reforms

The Amersham & Chesham Lions Club is holding a second public meeting to alert the public to choices in education. Sir Mike Tomlinson, former HM Chief Inspector of Schools, who currently chairs the government's working group for reform of the education system for 14-19 year olds, will be giving a talk with active discussion at Amersham Free Church, Woodside Road, Amersham, HP6 6AJ on Thursday 19 November at 7 for 7.30pm. The driving points of the Bucks 14-19 strategy are threefold: create a highly skilled workforce to meet the challenges of a global economy; ensure that the student's background should not determine success and meet each individual's needs, whatever their abilities and aspirations. Key aims and elements are: to get young people to stay in learning; on the right courses so they can achieve; to raise the participation age, reform the curriculum; and to create new qualifications to increase motivation-diplomas, foundation learning tiers and apprenticeships - from age 14. There is no entrance fee.

Chess River Project Wins

The Meades Water Gardens Regeneration Project has received a conservation award from the Wild Trout Trust. The project, carried out by the Impress the Chess partnership, restored the River Chess in this popular town centre green space in Chesham and cost £60,000. The award recognises excellence in work that benefits wild trout and other life in rivers and lakes. Sponsored by Orvis outdoor clothing, the awards have been held since 1998 to celebrate projects carried out by professional organisations or/and grass roots volunteers. The judges recognised improvements that the project has made to Meades Water Gardens for both wildlife and people. In addition to replacing silted up ponds with the natural stream habitat, tree work has improved light levels and tree health, and accessibility for all has been helped by footpath and fencing. They commented on the tenacious resolve of the Chilterns Chalk Stream Project officer Allen Beechey, and colleagues, who persisted when faced with obstacles during project–planning, including the need to undertake large-scale consultation. Natural re-colonisation of the site has been rapid since the gardens re-opened in July 2008, with both plants and animals such as sticklebacks and freshwater shrimp returning. The restored habitat was the chosen site for the release last summer of young brown trout reared by Waterside County Combined School pupils. This was the culmination of the Trout in the Classroom project to educate children about their local river and its wildlife.

Allen Beechey and the mayor Cllr Justine Fulford attended the awards ceremony and were delighted to receive the Runner Up award. This is the third time that the project has been recognised at both the regional and national level. Impress the Chess is a partnership of statutory organisations and community groups led by Chesham Town Council and the Chilterns Chalk Streams Project. It was set up to improve the river throughout the town and is involved in a variety of projects from mapping and controlling invasive riverside weeds to monitoring water vole populations.

Know your Aylward from your Plato

Friends of Chesham Cemetery want to refurbish some of the older graves in the cemetery. It is probable that the deed holders of these graves have also passed on, but relatives may still live in the Chesham area, and the Friends would like their views. Phil Folly said, “We are particularly interested in the grave of William Ford, Auctioneer and a later William Ford, registrar of Births and Deaths for Chesham District”. Other graves of interest are those of the Reverend Aylward, Sara and Esther King and Charles Plato. I know that a Rev’d A.J. Aylward gave his life in the 1871 epidemic as did Doctor Faithorn, and they both have roads named for them now.* If you can help please contact Phil Folly 16 Essex Road, Chesham HP5 3HZ call 01494 783691 or email follypostman@aol.com (and let Chiltern Voice know any bits of historical interest too please).
*See the book A Chesham Century - the story of a town and its council, 1894 -1994 by Arnold Baines and Clive Birch assisted by George Malin, Mike Kennedy and Steve James published 1994. “Chesham, which had been almost proverbially healthy in the seventeenth century, was swept by epidemics in the nineteenth. The last and worst was in 1871, when Dr Faithorn and three nurses gave their lives. The vicar, A. J. Aylward, a man greatly beloved, who had seen St Mary's restored and Christ Church built, worked unceasingly until he too died. The poor of Chesham erected his memorial.”

Kids - plan your miniature garden

Chesham in Bloom is now a proper organization in its own right. See our previous piece In Bloom gets a constitution. At a well attended first annual general meeting a constitution was adopted and office bearers elected including Rachel Watts who has been ably chairing the group. Did you know you can join for only £1, and extra members will give them more credibility and points when it comes to community participation assessment at judging time? The year saw increased participation from local schools in the poster competition and the boot planter competition at the schools of Chesham carnival, where penny voting raised £15. The Endeavour Nursery also supported the group. Rachel said, “I encourage everyone to think about supporting Chesham in Bloom, either by becoming a member, joining the committee, entering a competition, encouraging a local school gardening club or giving ideas on how to improve our performance in managing our local environment”. In 2010 the competition for schools will be to create miniature gardens. The Chesham in Bloom group would like support in other ways such as donating your surplus seeds, pots and compost. Help and advice would be welcome. The next committee meeting will be on Thursday 19 November carefully timed at 6.10pm so parking at the town hall will be free, and promised to finish before 7.30pm. To find out more call the secretary Kathryn Graves on 01494 774842 email KathrynGraves@chesham.gov.uk.

Job searching assistance

Assert yourself and get that job. Buckinghamshire Adult Learning has a course on Fridays from 6 to 27 November 2009 at Wallington House, Chesham from 10am - 1pm. The course code F5PW02SFO and it is free if you do not have a level 2 qualification (such as five GCSEs). Learn how to identify your needs, assess your skills, consider types of jobs to suit, prepare an action plan, build your self confidence and improve your communication skills. It is provided in conjunction with Asheridge Vale and Lowndes Community Association. Visit www.adultlearningbcc.ac.uk, call Buckinghamshire Adult Learning on 0845 045 4040, or call via Typetalk prefix 18001.

Running for local government

The Town Hall is entering a team for the Herbert’s Hole run put on by Chiltern Harriers on Sunday 15 November 2009. The team comprises Danny Essex from Chesham Moor Gym and Swim, Bill Richards the Town Clerk, Cllr Colette Littley who represents St Mary’s Ward and the Mayor’s husband Simon Fulford. They have even been spotted practising. The team is encouraging sponsors and supporters to donate to the mayor's charity which this year is Shed @ thePark www.shedatthepark.co.uk. Justine Fulford said, “Thanks to Danny's bright idea, I have set up a JustGiving page for the Town Hall runners. You can find it at http://www.justgiving.com/Mayor-of-Chesham-2009-10.”

Keep note of your drinks

Did you know that the Government's maximum recommended daily amount of alcohol is two to three units for a woman and three to four units for a man? That’s the equivalent of one pint of 5% lager. Caroline Murray, Community Safety Officer at Chiltern District Council said that on Monday 19 October for Alcohol Awareness Week, they will have a stand inside the entrance to Sainsbury’s in Chesham between noon and 4pm. Chiltern’s Community Safety Partnership is supporting the Government’s Know Your Limits campaign, which is encouraging people across the country to take stock of how much they are drinking by keeping a drink diary for the week. Information about alcohol units and drink diaries will be available for residents to take away so they can monitor their own alcohol intake. Representatives from Chiltern District Council’s Community Safety Team, Thames Valley Police, Young Addiction and Buckinghamshire Road Safety Team will be available to offer advice. Call Caroline on 07711 042399 or email caroline.murray@chiltern.gov.uk.

Chiltern Community Awards 2009

There are only 15 days left for you to nominate a local hero for the Chiltern Community Awards 2009, in association with Nexus Community, Chiltern & South Bucks Voluntary Action and sponsored by Paradigm Housing Group. Nominations are sought for the 2009 Chiltern District Council Community Awards. Click for the PDF nomination form and follow the online guidance notes. Deadline for the receipt of nomination forms is Friday 30 October.

Will Codmore field get the multi goal?

The Town Clerk Bill Richards, invites any group from an area or ward in Chesham, to claim the redundant but almost brand-new multi goal unit. The unit designed to be used by young people aged from about seven years and upwards, was removed from the Waterside Woodview site because the ground became compacted causing run-off flooding to houses down the slope. If you are campaigning for a play area such as Bois Moor Road, Hodds Wood Road or Batchelor's Way, to be kept open, this piece of equipment may increase its popularity and usage. Other play areas not at risk in the Town Council review and in fact due to be updated are: Moor Road, Marston Field, Codmore Field, the Co-op Field, Nashleigh Hill Recreation Ground, Gordon Road, Windsor Road and Woodland View. If you are interested in the multi goal unit please get in touch with Bill, call 01494 774842 or email admin@chesham.gov.uk.

Chiltern Voice Amersham – Henry Wizgier

One of the Chiltern District’s most popular social and recreational centres, the Amersham Polish Club, has been officially renamed The Bor-Komorowski Club. The move was made by the club’s SPK committee which represents the club’s owners, the London-based Polish Combatants Association. The re-naming ceremony took place at the club last weekend, during which a portrait of the club’s new patron, the late General Tadeusz Bor-Komorowski, a Polish wartime hero, was unveiled. The first major function at the club under its new name will be the Polish Harvest Ball this coming Saturday 10 October at 8pm, an annual event which attracts not only Poles but local dignitaries from the community. Chesham and Amersham Member of Parliament Cheryl Gillan will be among those attending.

Amersham Town Council’s long serving Town Clerk Des Knowles, is retiring from the job and the Council are advertising for a replacement. Although he doesn’t live in Amersham, Des has done a sterling job during his time as the authority’s senior administrator. He has played major roles in quite a few important initiatives, including helping to involve Amersham in the ‘Britain In Bloom’ annual competition, which brought great success this year.

Last Sunday saw the annual classic bus Running Day in and around the streets of Amersham On The Hill. Amersham & District Motor Bus Society holds this event every year when those old green and red London Transport buses which served Amersham, Chesham and many other towns in south Buckinghamshire, bring back a touch of nostalgia. As usual, a good crowd of admirers and enthusiasts turned out to ride in them, or just simply admire them.
There is more Amersham news on this blog's sister site Chiltern Voice - Amersham area.

Councillors back to school

Local democracy week runs from Monday 12 to Friday 16 October. The Youth Council thought that, as part of promoting local democracy and particularly to engage with young people, local councillors should go back to school for a day. So they put the hard word on town councillors and as a result Gill Walker, Alison Pirouet and Mark Shaw will visit Chesham Park School on Monday 12 October. On Thursday 15 October Colette Littley, Chris Spruytenburg, Roy Abraham, Francis Holly and myself will visit Chesham High School to join in a class on Politics or PHSCE (Personal, Social, Health and Citizenship Education). I hope there are no tests and relieved there will be no PE (physical education).

Amersham in Bloom deserves our headline

Amersham has won the Gold Award in the Regional Thames & Chiltern In Bloom 2009 section of the national Britain In Bloom competition. Taking the winners' trophy for the Town Category, Amersham beat off strong challenges from Henley-On-Thames and Kidlington. However that was not the only success, Chestnut Lane School also won the new competition for schools The Mark Mattock Cup, as the best school entry from across the whole of Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire. Amersham Town Clerk Des Knowles thanked all those who took part saying, "The Town Council wish to place on record its appreciation to all residents, businesses and community groups who, knowingly or not, contributed to the Town’s success." Thanks to Henry Wizgier. There is more Amersham news on this blog's sister site Chiltern Voice - Amersham area. http://chilternvoiceamersham.blogspot.com/

Chesham in Bloom result

Because of the different population sizes Chesham and Amersham are not in the same category of Thames and Chilterns in Bloom awards. Chesham has retained its Silver standard for a second year running and was particularly praised for its community involvement. Areas of strength were: Community Participation – scoring highly in Development and continuity and Communication and education – and Environmental Responsibility – with good scores in Conservation and biodiversity and Local heritage. Kathryn Graves at the Town Council said, “We have consolidated our Silver Award overall, Waterside were highly commended in the school competition, Meades Water Gardens was praised and we scored very well for our environmental work in general.”

Bandstand in Lowndes Park

Regarding our piece on Wednesday 23 September 2009 about the Lowndes Park Bandstand (and previously What no band stand? )Rod Culverhouse of Fastbreak Sports says, “I know that there was a bandstand in the park. My late Father E.J. Culverhouse used to tell me how he and other boys would go along to hear the band, but chiefly to suck lemons in front of the brass players. The trumpet and trombone players would slightly curl their lips, thereby spoiling their playing. It caused much amusement.” He asks, “Are the youth of today so very different?” Rod went on, “When the park was finally handed over (to the then Urban District Council) it was my grandfather as Town Mayor, who officially opened it. There used to be a brass plaque displayed to this effect, but it’s long since vanished.”

Chiltern Community Awards 2009

Volunteers who work in the community help to improve the quality of life for us all and CDC is pleased to be able to recognise the contribution they make. Nominations are sought for the Chiltern District Council Community Awards 2009 which are presented with the support of Nexus Community and Chiltern & South Bucks Voluntary Action. People who help: run a club; care for the elderly; support working practices; man a museum or put on plays may be the unsung heroes in your neighbourhood. There are seven nomination categories with a new award to celebrate young carers: Group Award : Individual Award : Older & Bolder Award : Young People Award : Business Award : Long Service Award : Young Carers Award. Submit your nomination online www.chiltern.gov.uk/communityawards2009 before Friday 30 October 2009 at 5pm. The awards ceremony will take place on Friday 4 December 2009 at the Chiltern District Council offices in Amersham.

Chiltern Voice Amersham – Henry Wizgier: Farmer's markets

Little Chalfont will be holding regular monthly Farmer's Markets, starting on Saturday 12 September. The organisers say that this one will specialise in not just good quality, but local food, produced in the south Buckinghamshire area. It will be in the Village Hall car park on the second Saturday of every month from 9am to 1pm.Read more about it in Chiltern Voice Amersham area.

Fit and well with MEND

MEND (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition, Do-It!) is a programme for seven to 13 year olds, who are over their ideal body weight. Sessions are held twice a week in Chesham. MEND uses techniques to help children and families understand about healthy eating, keeping active and fit, and ultimately feeling healthier and happier. The next programme starts on Monday 14 September 2009. For more information please contact Georgina O’Dell, Chiltern District Council, 01494 732103 or email godell@chiltern.gov.uk. Visit http://www.mendprogramme.org/.

Activities for the young ones

The new timetables are out for Waterside and Newtown Children’s Centres. to find out about all the myriad activities, the contact for Waterside is Katie Allen, Family Support Worker, 470 Waterside, Chesham, HP5 1QF call 01494 792852 or mobile 077175513779. For Newtown Children's Centre in Berkhamstead Road HP5 3AT, contact Danielle Appleby, Family Support Worker on 07799 181215, email dlappleby@buckscc.gov.uk.

Nifty at Sixty health fair

On Wednesday 2 September from 10am - 1pm people over 60 years of age are invited to a Health Fair at Chesham Town Hall. It is also for families or carers of older people. It is free with free refreshments and free giveaways. If you need it, there is free transport to and from the event, (book through Chiltern & South Bucks Dial-a-Ride on 01494 766123 before Monday 24 August). Many different organisations will be at the fair to give help and advice on such things as health (diabetes, stroke, blood pressure, dental health); social clubs and exercise activities; crime prevention (particularly doorstep sellers and bogus callers) and housing and repair grants. As well as a good day out, you will receive all the information you need to lead an independent, safe life. Organisations attending include Citizen’s Advice Bureau, Trading Standards, Community Safety, Food Standards Agency, Thames Valley Police, Benefits & Pensions Advice, Bucks Fire & Rescue, Bucks Primary Care Trust, Handy Van, Stroke Association and the Red Cross Home from Hospital Service. Georgina O’Dell of CDC said, “Please tell your friends to come along too - there will be plenty of refreshments. Come along any time, at your convenience.” Call Georgina on 01494 729000.

Family rounders day

Run out of ideas for the last week of the summer holidays? Bring the whole family to play some rounders. No need to book, just register on the day. Check the weather before you attend and ensure you’re wearing suitable clothes and go to King George V Field in Amersham from 10am till 1pm on Tuesday 25 August; or to Prestwood Common (Scout hut side) in Prestwood from 10am till 1pm on Friday 28 August. Call 01494 732177. Stacey Ellingham, Diversionary Activities Officer, Nexus Community/Chiltern District Council said, “We hope to see you there. Families are welcome to bring a picnic and refreshments.”

Swimming keeps seniors fit

Did you know there is free swimming available to people aged 60 and over? You can swim free of charge at Chesham and Amersham Leisure Centres. For more information phone Chesham Leisure Centre on 01494 791779. If you are not too confident in the water you can have swimming lessons. Contact Maggie O’Connor on 01494 586534.

Your Community Needs You - neighbourliness

The Building Community Capacity Project for residents aged over 50, is looking for local people who know their own communities to become Community Links. People such as religious leaders, medical staff (doctors, district nurses), postal workers, milkmen/women, newsagents, paperboys/girls, home safety reps, neighbours or neighbourhood watch representatives. You need to be willing to help to develop more effective ways of identifying older people who may be at risk from becoming isolated. Cecil Sinclair of CDC, said, “All we ask would be half-a-day of your time to provide you with up-to-date information on services for older people. Information about where support is available, what is currently on offer, useful contacts for concerns and how to notify the right person or organisation if the need arises. The training will also be an opportunity to meet like-minded people with whom you might want to work to support both the local community and each another.” Please contact Cecil on 01494 732 020 or email csinclaircchiltern.gov.uk.

Swim in the dark

Chesham outdoor heated pool presents a Twilight swim on Saturday 15 August. Following the success of the summer solstice evening swim at the beginning of the season, the pool will again be open for swimming from 9.45pm until 12.15am on Saturday 15 August. Everyone is invited to go along, swim and have a tea or coffee and a slice of cake, Tickets cost £5 and are available from reception. It is a swim not to be missed. Call 01494 776975 or visit www.cheshammoorfitness.org.uk (although I cannot see it in the Events list there are pictures of the last night-time swim). Danny Essex was pleased at the popularity of the earlier Twilight swim session Swim with the Stars. “If I’m being honest I thought it may have been a flop so I was surprised and pleased at it’s success,” he said, “Sixty people swam and it was an amazing atmosphere”.

Town council offers music

Music in Lowndes Park continues this Sunday 16 August with Reloaded Blues Band from 2pm weather permitting. The music is free. If you like it or have a preference for next summer’s season, why not drop the council a line at admin@chesham.gov.uk or call 01494 774842 (Monday to Friday, 10 am to 4.30 pm).

Kids participate in play

Joanne Blackwell sent this photo of the Lowndes Park children’s playground official opening She said, “The children enjoyed the ceremony with the Mayor and the new playground equipment”. From what I can see they still do, it is a huge success and when combined with the music, makes a perfect family afternoon on Sundays.

Councillors on the climbing frame?

If you see a crowd gathered at the refurbished play area in Lowndes Park on Friday 7 August at 11 am it will be the official opening. We reported it completed and added a photo later. The opening will be conducted by the mayor Cllr Justine Fulford. Representatives from other councils who have contributed will be there including Cllrs Noel Brown and Marion Clayton from Buckinghamshire County Council (BCC), and Mimi Harker from Chiltern District Councillor (CDC) as will David Gardner from CDC. This is the first stage of Chesham Town Council’s commitment to improve all its play areas over the next few years. Thanks to a £50,000 grant from the government’s Play Builder scheme (allocated through the District and County Council), a whole range of play equipment designed for the four -14 years age group has been installed by Proludic Play Ltd. Parents and young people were consulted before the design was given the go-ahead, and it was chosen for both its play value and robustness.

Follow up to Shelley Road art

There is more to our report on the Shelley Road art. We mentioned the painting aspect of the Shelley Road Garden project. Sandy Coyle, Community Development Officer at Paradigm, told me the young people did a magnificent job in transforming the drab graffiti covered concrete fence into a colourful mural. However this part of the project cost £100 not £20,000. Connaught donated masonry paint and equipment and Sandy personally donated the spray paint. The £100 was donated to another voluntary group who provided the expertise. Sandy went on, “To transform Shelley Road path from a misused dumping ground to a community resource costs both time and money. So far Pond Park Community Association has paid to have trees and shrubs cut back, and they have carried out participatory consultation, litter picks and bulb planting. Other events are lined up to encourage people to take ownership of the area.” The plan is to turn it into an outdoor environmental art gallery and garden, working with local schools and families. Sandy said, “The Community Association are working tirelessly on this project and I find it a great honour and privilege to work alongside them.”

They played in Lowndes Park

The Chesham Play Day in Lowndes Park on Wednesday 5 August was a busy happy day with lots of children and families enjoying the activities. (Part of National Play Day). Sandy Coyle from Paradigm was actively involved making Red Indian hats and Dream Catchers to promote the Pond Park Community Association and the Shelley Road project. She persuaded the PCSOs to try on her hats for this picture. People wandered amongst the booths and cars were parked all along Chartridge Lane and Park Road.

Sports coaching this summer

There is a good value play scheme going on at the Moor Gym and Swim, Moor Road HP5 1SE this holiday. There are still spaces left and I can report that the mayor, Cllr Justine Fulford’s children Cicely and Samuel really enjoyed their go on Wednesday. Justine said, “It gave me ample time to work and even managing to fit a trip to Waitrose in before picking them up.” It is for kids aged between seven and 11 years who enjoy being active and includes football, kwikcricket, netball, basketball, swimming and rounders. Arrive at 9.30am and the day lasts until 4pm so take a packed lunch. It costs £15 per day or £50 if pre-booking for a week and runs until Friday 4 September. Call Alex Jones on 07824 669391, email alex_jones287@hotmail.co.uk. Alex is an experienced FA coach, has full CRB clearance and BA Hons in sport development and coaching. Afraid I cannot see any reference on the website www.cheshammoorfitness.org.uk.

Be prepared - now is the time to choose your Flu friend

Buckinghamshire NHS PCT (Primary Care Trust) Patient and Public Involvement reminds us that the national swine flu information leaflet, delivered to households across the county in May, makes reference to people setting up a network of flu friends. They could be relatives, neighbours or friends who will collect medicines, food and other supplies if you get swine flu, so that you do not have to leave home. Preventing people who may be suffering from swine flu from having to go outdoors will help restrict the potential spread of flu to others. It is a good idea for each person to identify up to five ‘flu friends’ because if your flu friend is also ill or unavailable then you have alternatives, but it is important to have at least one. A flu friend form is available on Buckinghamshire PCT’s website www.buckspct.nhs.uk to help you record your flu friends’ information and to keep in a safe place in case they are ill. People should also consider becoming a flu friend to a neighbour who may live alone, family members that might need help, or offer themselves through networks that may be set up by local organisations, such as churches or parish councils.

Advice for people who have flu-like symptoms, is to stay at home, limit contact with others and check your symptoms by calling NHS Direct on 0845 4647, visit www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk or www.pandemicflu.direct.gov.uk. Once symptoms are checked you will be given advice on the next steps to take if you are diagnosed with the virus. For further information on swine flu you can ring the Swine Flu information line on 0800 1 513 513. You are urged not to visit your GP surgery or a hospital, as you may spread germs to others. (I thought it was important to take your temperature-Ed.)

Children’s fun day

Sure Start Childrens’ Centre is Wednesday 5 August 2009 from 11am until 3pm. Chesham Children’s Centre and Early Years will be presenting a Chesham Play Day, at Lowndes Park. It will be a free fun day in the park for all families with children from nought – 11 years. There will be story telling, inflatables and craft activities. Call the Children’s Centre on 01494 792852, or Danielle on 07799 181215, email dlappleby@buckscc.gov.uk.

Not only will it be for the young ones but there will be many more activities for young people up to 19 years including rugby sessions with Chesham Rugby Club, Splats entertainment - Circus day, Queens park centre - art work shops, Sumi suits, Amersham fire fighters, Zoo Lab petting zoo, toddler groups, the National Childminders Association and the Library Service. I asked Dannie for more activities and got all of the following. The PCSOs will bring a CCTV van for road safety advice and you can find out about sustainable travel. The Fostering and Apportion Team will be there as well as the NCT, Baby Football Club and Chesham women's football team. Children and young people can enjoy Hartbeeps music sessions, Monkey puzzle day nursery, face paints, Boomerang toy library, messy play, story time, helium cylinder, Clay 28 lbs air dry clay modelling tools and a badge machine. There will also be Activity Garden Peek-a boo play tunnel, giant Jenga, hook the boat (not including paddling pool), an Airflow sports field and Airflow sea adventure set. Interactive story sessions and art and craft activities hats/ dream catchers, leisure centre and gym, skateboarding crafts, the police and a fire engines. So it will be a holiday treat not to be missed. Take a picnic and make a day of it. Sure Start Children's Centres are at the heart of the government's 'Every Child Matters: Change for Children' programme. It is the aim of the government to have a Sure Start Children's Centre in every community by 2010. All children under the age of five should have the best start in life: to lead safe, healthy and fulfilling lives, and to make a positive contribution to their communities and to society in the future.

In Bloom inspection raises hopes

Two Royal Horticultural Society judges visited Chesham on Thursday 16 July and came away with such a good impression of the town that one said he would like to live here. After months of planning, planting and litter picking, the annual visit of the Thames & Chilterns In Bloom judges was the culmination of the In Bloom year and a chance to show off Chesham’s community spirit and green fingers. Chair of In Bloom Rachel Watts, showed the judges sites including the Asheridge Road allotments and the high street floral displays. Britain in Bloom is about much more than flowers, it emphases environmental issues; so visits to the Household Waste and Recycling Centre in Latimer Road and Hazeldene Organic Farm demonstrated the town’s green credentials. Judges enjoyed a sustainable lunch with the Mayor Cllr Justine Fulford, cooked by students at Chesham High School and containing only Chesham-produced ingredients, from salad off the allotments to gammon donated by the farm.

The judges were impressed by Waterside School’s participation in the innovative Trout in the Classroom project and saw a clip of the trout release in Meades Water Gardens as filmed for the BBC’s Countryfile programme last month. Another highlight was meeting workers at the Endeavour Nursery, where people with learning disabilities develop new skills through their work with plants. The open air heated swimming pool was a big hit - the judges going back a second time to take photos of the glorious floral displays for their records. Kathryn Graves, Policy & Projects Officer of Chesham Town Council said, “Thanks to the hard work of many volunteers, the Chesham in Bloom group hope to improve on their Silver Award of last year. Fingers will be firmly crossed until the results are announced at a ceremony in Newbury in September.”
I personally thank Phil Folly who led the litter-picking and was working until all hours the night before as well as from 7am on the judging day. But why oh why do so many people drop litter and cigarette butts?

Town council offers music

Music in Lowndes Park started on the Summer on Sunday 5 July but has been a secret with poster advertising but no mention on the website. This Sunday 26 July from 2pm weather permitting you can hear the Chinnor Silver Band. The music is free and you are invited to bring your own picnic and deckchair.

Play equipment popular

The Lowndes Park play area is now completed and very much in use, although not officially open. The contractors removed the fencing which released a flood of children and Voice dared not take a photo for fear of being inaccurately labelled. It is a pity the grass has been exposed to the thunder of tiny feet before it could be re-seeded but I don’t blame the kids and it’s great the equipment is so popular. Town Clerk Bill Richards said, “When we are certain there are no unforeseen issues in about 10 days there will be a ceremonial opening.”

Access group needs new chair person

South Bucks and Chiltern Access Group (SB&CHAG) which helps to improve physical access for disabled people to buildings and services, desperately needs a new chair person in order for its valuable work to continue. Could you organise and lead the group’s bi-monthly meetings, represent the group at other meetings, respond to government consultation documents, write letters to raise issues of concern, respond to requests for information, and really make a difference to people’s lives? If you think you could meet this challenge, please contact Joy Johns at the Volunteer Centre on 01895 837545 or email joy@voluntaryaction.org.

Children’s posters say “Make Chesham Tidy”

Healthy eating treats were awarded to two Chesham children who won the 2009 Chesham In Bloom poster competition. The theme was Make Chesham Tidy and the judges were daunted by the hundreds of posters submitted. But in the two age categories, there were outstanding winners. Niamh Taylor Connor aged 9, from Waterside School won with a beautiful drawing of the town’s clock tower and Beth Richards aged 7, won the Under Eights category and was declared overall competition winner. Her bold design featuring a littered street with the phrase “My lovely Chesham is spoilt with litter and dog mess. I wish people would use the bins”. Kathryn Graves from Chesham in Bloom said, “Like the rest of Chesham’s residents, the town’s children want to live somewhere that is free of litter and mess. We were delighted that they were inspired by our theme and produced fantastic artwork. We are proud to display the posters to remind everyone to do their bit to make Chesham tidy”. The healthy eating hampers were donated by Chesham Waitrose, a big supporter of Chesham in Bloom. The posters are on display in Waitrose in the run up to Thursday 16 July, the day the Royal Horticultural Society judges will come to assess the town for the Chesham In Bloom competition. Other posters will be displayed by shops that are keen to lend their support to the Make Chesham Tidy campaign. Chesham in Bloom teamed up with the Environmental Group on a town-wide litter-pick in preparation for the judges’ visit. Town councillors and In Bloom members were among the residents helping to clean up the streets this evening.

Photo shows Beth Richards with her father, Mark.

What have you got planned for the Summer Holidays?

The Sportszone holiday activities brochure is out detailing all sessions at various venues in the Chiltern District. They are free of charge, and all you need to do is turn up with a completed parental consent form. (Visit http://www.chiltern.gov.uk/site/scripts/downloads.php?categoryID=1165 and scroll down). Sportszone Stars is a rewards scheme in which any eight – 12 year olds who attend Sportszone will receive stars for attending any session. At the end of the summer holidays the youngsters with sufficient stars will receive an award. For more information call Stacey Ellingham Diversionary Activities Officer Nexus Community/ Chiltern District Council 01494 732177 or mobile 07970 215077, or visit www.nexuscommunity.org, www.chiltern.gov.uk/sportszone, www.chiltern.gov.uk/sport for up to date information on clubs, sports coach workshops, events and funding advice.

Stuff to do in Newtown

Chesham Children’s Centre (Newtown) continues through the summer with a packed programme of exciting activities for families with children under five years of age, at their lovely new premises in Berkhampstead Road HP5 3AT. Visit http://www.bucksinfo.net/stuff2do/assets/documents/ccnewtownjune/ for the detailed current programme of things which are happening. For more information contact Danielle Appleby, Family Support Worker, on 01494 778037 or email dlappleby@buckscc.gov.uk.

Stuff to do in Waterside

Lisa Page of Chesham’s Waterside Children's Centre, 470 Waterside HP5 1QF also sent me a timetable too detailed to type out here so click. One activity which caught my eye is on Fridays from 9am – noon, stay and play toddlers with a limit of 40 families only, so they operate on a first come first served basis. It runs throughout the holidays except the 28 August. For more information contact Lisa Page, Admin Support at Chesham Waterside Children's Centre on 01494 792852 or email C-420@buckscc.gov.uk. Local delivery of children and young people's services, visit http://www.bucksinfo.net/stuff2do/children-s-centres/.

A personal face of pub closures

The Bull at Bellingdon is now boarded up – just as it was increasing in popularity in the hands of Sandra and Peter Taylor. It was becoming known as the hub of Bellingdon and some months ago was the venue for an open air Songs of Praise service held by the Parish of Great Chesham in association with St John's, Bellingdon. According to the Hilltop News, April & May 2009 edition, The Bull was taken over as a free house by a private investor in late 2004. They expanded the village pub format to add larger events such as bands, a beer festival and a tug of war. Locally sourced food was featured and real ales, including barrels from the Tring and Marlow Breweries. Sandra is not allowed to speak to me for legal reasons but my informant tells me she provided a delicious lunch after the church service.
The use of a pub for other activities is not an original idea. A pub makes the ideal point for a replacement post office or village corner shop. Buckinghamshire Community Action – BCA has launched an initiative to improve the quality of life for older people in rural areas. BCA will help communities set up a monthly pub lunch club which will allow people to increase social activity and make new friends. The co-ordinator is Lew Monger, call 01926 421036 or email llew@bucks-comm-action.org.uk. Groundwork is underway around Winslow and Buckingham in the north of the county but no actual clubs are in place yet. BCA is the rural community council for Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes supporting rural communities and local voluntary organisations throughout the county.

Fund your business

Buckinghamshire is the number one entrepreneurial heart of Britain and Buckinghamshire Business Challenge is pledged to support businesses with a fund of £100,000. If you: have a good idea that would assist business, need help to grow your business, want to invest in new equipment, need support to relocate or renegotiate your lease – read on. View the criteria and application form, visit Buckinghamshire Economic and Learning Partnership at www.belp.co.uk or call Lynne Cairns on 01296 383801 or email lynne@belp.co.uk.

Sort out the Lowndes Park Friends

Friends of Lowndes Park hold their annual general meeting at 7.30pm on Wednesday 1 July, and it will be in the town hall, Baines Walk. They are particularly hoping someone will step forward as new secretary but any new committee members would be welcome. To join the Friends of Lowndes Park or to find out more, call Michael Rowan on 01494 785146, email michael.rowan@ntlworld.com or visit www.lowndespark.org.uk.

Weeding and tidying

Chesham will be judged as part of Thames and Chilterns in Bloom this year on Thursday 16 July. All helpers are encouraged to lend a hand with the pre-judging litter pick. For more information please contact Kathryn Graves of the Town Council on 01494 774842 or email policy@chesham.gov.uk.

Plan for an active old age

Cecil Sinclair, Community Cohesion Officer, Chiltern District Council is still progressing the Building Community Capacity project that was launched at the Getting to Know You speed dating event at Chesham Town Hall in February. He now needs to find out what organisations need, and how best to meet them; the needs of individuals as they get older; and specifically to find out from involved organisations, the make up and numbers of their users. The Building Community Capacity project is to provide and target services to older people. Cecil and the team need to spread their efforts and hear back from organizations which represent or have contact with the elderly. Cecil said, “Unfortunately time is limited and we would like to have your response by Monday 22 June”. Contact Cecil for a questionnaire, call 01494 732 020 or email csinclair@chiltern.gov.uk.

See artworks instead of empty shops

Wouldn’t it be great to see paintings and craft work in shops which are currently empty and sad? Well Artworks For Business wants to do just that. To raise the profile of the creative sector, local artists could temporarily inhabit empty shop fronts, maintain the vitality of the high street and deter criminal damage. Artworks For Business is a project which is being delivered through Chiltern District Council’s membership of Creative Bucks, which is a partnership of Bucks County Council, all the district councils, and Arts Council England. Artworks For Business will increase investment and employment in the creative enterprise sector. The process need not be complicated and there are benefits to landlords as well as artists. The Artworks For Business project will also address town centre regeneration/ revitalisation. If you are interested in investigating this initiative and/ or would like help in selecting suitable local artists visit www.artworksforbusiness.co.uk.

What happened to the tree?

Did you ever see a more sign-cluttered Market Square and now the tree has completely disappeared. Apparently it was diseased so the owners Bucks County Council duly removed it as a matter of Health and Safety. Another tree in Church Street on the corner outside SirsiDynix, has been dead for ages. Town Tree warden Bernard Meldrum said when the High Street was pedestrianised Chiltern District Council landscaped Market Square and planted the trees. The town centre was then handed over to BCC. Town Clerk Bill Richards said, “I understand they have no plans to fund and replace the tree, which is a shame as we have previously hung our Christmas lights from there.” I too think it is a shame and I urge you to email BCC and request a replacement. Sorry to include a negative piece this week, we try to avoid it but needs must.