Lowndes Park Needs Snowdrops

One of the loveliest sights this time of year is the snowdrop. The Friends of Lowndes Park would like to plant more and are asking gardeners to donate any they may have that are in the green. If you would like to help the friends make our park more beautiful, please call Joan Clark on 01494 783035 or Phil Folly on 01494 783691.

Technology Tournament Makes Flashing Lighthouse

Sixteen teams each of four youngsters from local schools competed in the Technology Tournament to make a device out of simple materials, in a limited time. It was put on by the Rotary Clubs of Chesham, Amersham and Great Missenden on Friday 26 February and marks were given for planning and teamwork, as well as for the finished product. Two teams of teachers also took part. This year the project was to make a lighthouse with a bulb which flashed at least ten times, at intervals of one second. Younger participants had simpler requirements. All the teams had some success, based in most cases on a pendulum. The winners of the Advanced Task were Ricky, Simon, Sophie and Georgina from the John Colet School, the intermediate were Zoe, Nicole, Shaun and Ben from Princes Risborough, and the basic winners were Aaron, Campbell, Lara and Kayleigh from Chesham Park. The Chief Judge was Ray Payne, who is supervising the logistics of the 2012 Olympic Project, and the guests included our Member of Parliament for Chesham and Amersham, Cheryl Gillan, and the Mayor of Chesham, Cllr Justine Fulford. David Unwin said, “The youngsters enjoyed the challenge, and the teachers regarded it as educational and fun. The next Rotary Technology Tournament will be on Friday 4 March 2011.”

CDNHS

The next outing for members of the Chesham and District Natural History Society will be on Sunday 14 March to Tring Park, led by Sue Brawn. Meet either at 2pm at The Moor Car Park, where car-sharing will be organised, or at 2.25pm at the Playing Field car park near The Greyhound Inn at Wigginton, Grid ref: SP938 099. The walk will be for about three miles and take a maximum of two and a half hours. Andrea Polden said, “It might be muddy, so bring appropriate footwear”.

Vintners and Dyers Companies, Swan Upping And All That

On Wednesday 17 March Brian Pratt will give a talk about the Livery Companies of the City of London. It will be at the Chesham Society meeting to which all are invited, at the town hall at 7.30 for 8pm. Brian says he will give a brief history, changes over the years and the role of companies today in City life. Brian’s company is the Painter-Stainers Company. The Worshipful Company of Painter-Stainers is one of the Livery Companies of the City of London. An organisation of stainers, or painters of metals and wood, is known to have existed as early as 1268. A similar organisation of painters, who generally worked on cloth, existed as early as 1283. The two bodies merged in 1502; the new organisation was incorporated under a Royal Charter in 1581. Now, the Company is less of a trade association of painters, and more of a charitable company; it is also a supporter of various art schools and universities. The picture of the annual Swan Upping on the Thames carried out by the Vintners and Dyers companies. The Vintners' Company's ownership of swans and the annual swan upping which takes place on the Thames, are well-known.

Victory Photo Call

A group of people who were involved in the campaign to restore our post office into the heart of Chesham gathered outside the Post Office on Wednesday 3 March. Charlotte Norris said it comprised, “People who organized meetings, signed and delivered petitions and processes and in other ways were involved in getting our Post Office up and running again”. Everyone celebrated the achievement and were photographed by the Bucks Examiner.

Browse and Buy at Christ Church Hall

On Saturday 13 March at Christ Church Hall, Waterside from 11am to 1pm there will be a bric-a-brac sale with refreshments. Proceeds are in aid of Christ Church funds.

Get involved with what’s on

Chiltern Voice is your community website for what’s on in Chesham. Please let us know of events and happenings, by emailing merrinnews@gmail.com and include your own details (let me know if some details are not for publication).

Three One Act Comedies From CTC

Chesham Theatre Company presents three one act comedies at the Little Theatre by the Park in Church Street, Chesham on Friday 26 and Saturday 27 March at 7.45 pm, and Sunday 28 March at 4pm. The Tangled Web is a new play by Richard Need. Instead of a relaxing pre-election dinner party, Charles Crosby MP suddenly faces corruption charges, exposure in the tabloids and a paternity suit - and in his own home. Mike Consden has extracted Bottom the weaver, Snug the joiner and their rustic friends from Shakespeare, as they attempt to put on a romantic and heroic play for the Duke of Athens and his guests in just four days. Will it be A Mad Summer Night’s Dream? Finally, the 150th anniversary of the birth of Anton Chekhov is celebrated with The Proposal, translated by Michael Frayn. Hard winters and hard times in rural Imperial Russia are made even harder when your unmarried daughter remains under your roof. Bring your own food and drink and enjoy this Triple Bill in Supper Theatre style. Tickets costing £10 or £8 concessions are available from tickets@cheshamtheatrecompany.org.uk or call 01494 727243.

How’s the Chess Coping, and Meades Water Gardens?

The next Impress the Chess Open Forum meeting will be held on Thursday 18 March 2010 at 7pm. It will be at the Chesham Town Hall and you can hear an update on Trout in the Classroom by Waterside County Combined School; see a Rivers On the Edge film and find out about water usage. Paul Jennings will report on the River Chess Association, there will be an updated Impress the Chess Action Plan and a general discussion forum. We first reported on Wednesday 30 September 2009.

Panda Players Present Calamity Jane

Calamity Jane is being put on by the Panda Players. It is on Wednesday 10 March at 7.45pm costing £10 (concession £10); Thursday 11 March and Friday 12 March at 7.45pm costing £15 (concession £12); Saturday 13 March matinee at 2.30pm costing £12 (concession £10) and at 7.45pm for £15 (concession £12). The lyrics are by Paul Francis Webster, music by Sammy Fain and it is adapted by Ronald Hanmer and Phil Park from the stage play written by Charles K Freeman after the Warner Bros film written by James O’Hanlon. Book at the Panda box office call 01494 794399, or the Elgiva box office 01494 582900 or on line at the Elgiva. Make cheque to Panda Players, Box Office, Old Mortons, Weedon Hill, Hyde Heath, Amersham, HP6 5RW.

Schools of Chesham Carnival 2010 – Get Involved Now

Mohammed Jhangir – Jay, of Newtown Garage who won last year’s Mayoral Award for Business, is promoting the website www.cheshamcarnival.org for the Schools of Chesham carnival 2010. It will be on Saturday 12 June this year. Entrance to the grand procession in all classes is free, namely: Class 1 – Schools of Chesham Carnival; Class 2 – Visiting Schools & Playgroups; Class 3 – Youth Associations (Non-Commercial); Class 4 – Adult Associations (Non-Commercial); Class 5 - Commercial & Trade Vehicles; Class 6 – Unclassified; Class 7 – Non Judged; Class 8 – Music; Class 9 – Theatre Groups; Class 10 – Public Houses; Class 11 – Walkers and Class 12 – Street. Please return your completed entry form by Friday 1 May 2010 to Martin Woolnough, 7 Woodcote Lawns, Chesham HP5 2LY. The website has a wide archive of pictures and history of previous carnivals, and you can download an entry form for. I encourage all readers to visit the website www.cheshamcarnival.org, support them and make constructive comments by emailing info@cheshamcarnival.org.

Success At The Chesham Arts Festival

Chesham's Annual Arts Festival celebrated its 34th year during half- term, and classes for music, speech and dance attracted nearly 1,000 entries, mostly from younger people. Classes adjudicated by professionals, culminated in the final concert at the Elgiva on Sunday 21 February. The highest scoring competitors performed to a full house and 70 trophies were awarded. Pictured are Faye Zhao (player of piano and violin) winner of the Most Promising Junior trophy and James Duff (viola player) winner of the Most Promising Senior trophy with the Mayor of Chesham Cllr Justine Fulford, the President of the Male Voice Choir, Sheila Cornall and members of Chess Valley Male Voice Choir who acted as stewards.

Twinlink Reported

Members of Chesham Town Twinning are looking forward to a special year this year, the 30th anniversary of the twinning of Chesham and Friedrichsdorf, which was their first venture into linking with a town in Europe. The major celebration will take place in September, during the cultural weekend, which will be held in Chesham. That this will be just one of many activities during 2010. There will be a visit by 14 members to Archena in April, a full complement of visitors to Houilles for the international weekend in May and a disco and buffet in June. In addition the 31 Club will be staging events for members throughout the year, including boules, a barbecue, a talk, a walk and a ghost walk for Halloween. Another international activity will be the annual European Concert, to be held in May in Friedrichsdorf. Though some Chesham members have attended this most years, either in France or Germany, they have not of late been able to find a participant. “It would be great if this were to change this time,” said chairman Peter Fletcher. At the AGM membership secretary Marianne Lambert reported, “This year has seen a lovely increase in numbers thanks to the enterprise of our chairman with his Welcome to Twinning evenings. He is planning another so if you know of anyone who would like to learn more of twinning and maybe join please get them to come along.” The Twinners are always pleased if you bring visitors to any of our events, so please encourage friends, neighbours and colleagues. Word of mouth is one of the best ways to interest people and increase the numbers. “You only get out of twinning what you are willing to put in,” continued Marianne. Call Peter Fletcher on 01494 758312.

Quiz for Museum

Chesham Museum is holding its first quiz night for this year on Saturday 13 March at 7.30pm at St Mary's Church Rooms, Church Street, Chesham. Quizmaster will be Steve Coates and tickets cost £12 per person which includes a fish and chip supper and bring your own drink. Bring your friends too, and make up a team of up to eight people. Tickets available from Chesham Museum during normal opening hours or to book a place phone and leave a message on 01494 792549 or call Sue Gordon 01494 772096. Visit the museum website www.cheshammuseum.org.uk. Museum opening hours are - Monday: Closed, Tuesday: 11am - 3pm, Wednesday: 11am - 3pm, Thursday: Closed, Friday: Closed, Saturday: 11am - 3pm, Sunday: 2 - 4pm.

March Kickboxing Competition

Chesham Kickboxing & Martial Arts Academy (CKMA) presents its annual semi contact kickboxing competition on Sunday 7 March at Chesham Leisure Centre. It is open to junior and adult fighters from many different styles of martial arts clubs across the country. Commencing at 9.30am the show will feature a full day of pre-matched fights for novices and the more experienced. There will be two boxing rings, spectator tickets can be purchased on the day, and food and refreshments will be available at the venue. Day show adult entry is £10, under 16’s cost £5 and under 5’s free. After the semi-contact day show there will be a full-contact night show taking place at the same venue, organised by Brittania Kickboxing. Current CKMA classes are held on Monday and Wednesday evenings at Brushwood Junior School in Chesham. Please visit www.cheshamkickboxing.co.uk for details.

Maidenhead Salvation Army Band Playing Here

On Saturday 6 March the Salvation Army will be holding a Musical Programme presented by the Maidenhead Salvation Army Band. It will be in the Broadway Baptist Church at 7.30pm and admission is free.

Fairtrade Fashion Show - 4 March 2010

Go to a fun-packed night at the Elgiva in St Mary's Way, Chesham HP5 1HR on Thursday 4 March for the Fairtrade Fashion Show and Poetry Awards Evening. You can see the latest Fairtrade fashion collections from People Tree, Traidcraft, Komodo and Five G, plus creations by local designers for the Fairtrade Fashion Challenge. There will be performances by Shed@ ThePark and other Chesham dancers and musicians. The winners from three of the age categories of the Faitrade Poetry Competition will be announced, their poems read and prizes and certificates presented. Those awarded second place and those commended will have their names published in the programme, will have their names read out on the night and (space permitting), their poems will be displayed in Chesham Library. The fun starts from 6.30pm with stalls, displays and Fairtrade refreshments and the official start time is 7.30pm. Tickets cost £7 or £3.50 concessions, and £18 for a family ticket comprising two adults and children. Email Clem Short clem_s@tiscali.co.uk; Gill Walker gillwalker20@hotmail.com or Colin Cartwright colin@chesham4fairtrade.co.uk. Call the Elgiva on 01494 582900 or visit www.elgiva.com
See previous Voice piece Commemorate Fairtrade's Fifth Birthday.

Museum Talk on River Chess

Bill Templeton's talk on the River Chess has already been repeated once and will be given again on Monday 8 March at 2.30pm. Entitled The Chess: Portrait of a River it costs £2.50 per person, or £2 for Super or Life Friends.

Support Scout Efforts

The 3rd Chesham Scout Group will be holding a rummage sale at the Scout headquarters behind Emmanuel Church in Berkhamsted Road, Chesham on Saturday 20 March from 2 - 4pm.

Genova with Colin Firth

The Chiltern Film Society's next presentation is Genova, showing at the Elgiva in Chesham on Wednesday 3 March at 1pm and 8pm (8pm for film society members). The story: Following the funeral of a young mother tragically killed in a road accident, her husband (Colin Firth) and children move to Italy: a new country, a new city, a fresh start. It's a moving story of love and displacement with a dash of magic realism. Directed by Michael Winterbottom, UK 2008 it lasts for 94 minutes.

Play Quiz for a Galaxy

Will you help the Endeavour Centre raise money to run a Galaxy, enabling the clients to have a more flexible lifestyle, by bringing a team to their Quiz evening? The Chiltern Friends Of The Endeavour are holding a Quiz Evening on Saturday 27 February 2010 at 7.30 for 8pm at the Chesham Town Hall. It is for teams of eight and it costs £10 each person. There will be a fish and chip supper and drinks available to buy. You can win generous prizes in the raffle. Please register your team with Pam Crawford call 01296 631501 or Angela Baker call 01494 776188 before Sunday 21 February. Chiltern Friends Of The Endeavour is a Registered Charity No. 1080322.

Contribute to the Rebuild Coffers

The Chesham Veterans Club Appeal Fund will be holding a Quiz Night at Chesham United Football Club on Saturday 20 February. The quiz will start at 8.30pm prompt and proceeds raised will go towards the rebuild of the Chesham British Legion premises. Teams of up to six persons are welcome to attend. Entry is £5 per person and includes a light supper of chilli jacket potato. Space is limited so please call Linda or David on 01494 772256 to book your table. A full range of alcoholic and soft drinks will be available for purchase at the football club bar.

Inject Your Society with Talent Using Interim Expert Volunteers

Short Term Expert Help for Charities in Buckinghamshire is a project offering charities and other not for profit organisations the opportunity to have a volunteer who is a manager or skilled professional working with them to deliver a short, focussed piece of work with an agreed outcome. It offers managers or skilled professionals who are looking for work an opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills to an organisation and add to their CV. The interim assignments will bring much needed strategic and professional skills to not-for-profit organisations across the County at a time when many are facing challenges due to the economic downturn. Induction into the panel will be covered at two executive workshops which will be held in March. The Interim Expert Volunteers initiative is funded by Bucks Strategic Partnership. This Voluntary Impact Bucks project is being delivered in partnership with Aylesbury College and Bucks Economic and Learning Partnership. For further information on how to be involved, call Interim Expert Volunteers, 8a Temple Square, Aylesbury HP20 2QH on 01296 337456 or 07805 277797 email expertvols@valevolunteers.org.uk.

Elmtree School’s Greenhouse.

Elmtree School was delighted to receive money to purchase a greenhouse from the Chesham Round Table. Despite the snow, rain and bitter temperatures it was constructed by Ken Muncie who has two children at Elmtree, and school neighbours Peter Halward and Ken Hughes. The children have plans to grow even more fruit and vegetables this year within this new protected area. The Gardening Club run by head teacher Mrs Seddon, is always the most popular club and runs two sessions a week to satisfy demand. The school’s first Ground Force Day last July was a success with parent and community volunteers helping building two new vegetable beds and laying paving stones in the top playground. The second dedicated day with be on Saturday 27 March and they hope to create a paved trail and a living willow tunnel; clear ground for a new herb bed and possibly plant fruit trees. Michele Blackmore, Eco Schools Co-ordinator said, “Looks like the scouts and guides are coming along too, it should be a great day. At Elmtree we believe that we must be a sustainable school that prepares young people for a lifetime of sustainable living. We are teaching the children to care for themselves, for each other and for their planet”. The school has achieved the Eco Schools Bronze Award and is working towards Green Flag status. If you have any queries regarding Elmtree's bid for Eco School status, call Michele Blackmore on 01494 771474 email mblackmore1@bucksgfl.org.uk.

Breakfast for Fair Trade

There will be a family Fairtrade breakfast at Emmanuel Church, Broad Street, Chesham on Saturday 27 February from 8.30 - 10.30am. You can enjoy fruit juices, cereals, toast and preserves as well as tea or coffee and bacon butties – all with waitress service.

Comedy Night Returns to the Chess, Friday 26 February

Chesham United Supporters' Trust next Comedy Club announces new show dates for 2010 in conjunction with Chesham United Football Club. There will be regular performances every month throughout the year. Those who have been before will know it's a cracking night out. They aim to bring you a hilarious selection of acts by booking the best comedians from the national and international stand up circuit. You will find the same acts playing popular clubs such as Jongleurs (now known as Famous for Comedy) and The Comedy Store, but the Chess Room won’t be charging £20 for tickets and £5 for a drink. The show still remains good value for money and it’s right here in Chesham. The next show will be on Friday 26 February, and it will comprise, headline act- Bob Mills, opening act – Janice Phayre, middle act - Mark Simmons, and the MC is Eric Lampaert. Call 0845 5194015. Admission is £10.65 in advance (including booking fee) or £12 at the door. There is a tendency to get absolutely packed, which makes for a great atmosphere, but does mean that you cannot be guaranteed seating unless you reserve seats in advance. Only a limited number of tickets are available at the door. Visit www.chesslive.org.uk which has been re-launched and includes a new booking system. You can now choose individual seats during the checkout process. Chesham United Football Club, The Meadow, Amy Lane, Chesham, HP5 1NE, call 08455 194015 free from a BT landline.

The Beaconsfield Art Fair - Spring 2010

Linda Hope, of the Beaconsfield School PTFA hopes Chesham and district people will be interested in a showcase fair for fine art and quality local crafts. It will be at the Beaconsfield School, Wattleton Road, Beaconsfield HP9 1SJ on Friday 14 May 7pm – 9.30pm and Saturday 15 May 10am – 4pm. Linda said, “It is a renowned exhibition held twice every year, where all work is for sale. Paintings are in a variety of media, prints, with photographs, sculptures in metal and clay and ceramics, all to a high standard, appealing to a wide variety of tastes. Alongside the art will be a range of quality, local, handmade crafts including glass, wood, textiles, jewellery, chocolates and more”. Entry is free and refreshments will be available.

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.

Power at The Grove

The next meeting of the Chess Valley Archaeological and Historical Society will be a talk by Garry Marshall on The Grove, Chesham, and the most powerful man in England. It will be held on Friday 19 February at the White Hill Centre, Chesham and will begin at 8pm. Visitors are welcome and admission costs £2. Call Anne Marshall on 01494 725952.

Three Treats & A Reminder To Help Museum

Dance your February blues away at Chesham Museum's tea dance with Ray Cox on Saturday 13 February from 2 to 5pm with tea at St Mary's Church Rooms, Church Street, Chesham. Tickets costing £6 which includes tea and cakes available from the museum in Market Square call 01494 792549, or from Orbitpress at 11 Market Square, Chesham.

Pubs and Industries in the Town Centre is the title of a walk with guides Fi Bingham and Peter Forsyth on Sunday 21 February at 2pm. The walk takes about two hours from Market Square. Tickets costing £2 (although the website says £2.50) per person, or £2 for Super or Life Friends, must be booked and paid for in advance, call 01494 792549 or visit the website. This walk is one not to miss - I wish I were able to go.

On Monday 22 February at 2.30pm there will be a talk at the museum, by Janet Dineen entitled Lace and Straw Plait in Chesham. It costs £2.50 per person, or £2 for Super or Life Friends and space is limited so booking is advisable, call 01494 792549. Janet is ultra knowledgeable and a real enthusiast so it will be interesting to learn about one of Chesham’s traditional industries.

Wander around Waterside, with Chesham Museum guides Philippa Sawyer and Pat Kent on Sunday 7 March at 2pm, and takes about two hours from Market Square. Tickets costing £2 (or £2.50) per person, or £2 for Super or Life Friends, must be booked and paid for in advance, call 01494 792549 or visit the website.

And don’t forget Bill Templeton's talk on the River Chess on Monday 8 March at 2.30pm.

Shay

The Museum Trustees were saddened to hear of the death of Shay Comaskey last month. As landlord of the Gamekeepers Lodge he was a great supporter of the museum. In fact he decorated his pub with memorabilia from the First and Second World War. He lent his former stables in Bellingdon Road as a first home, held auctions to raise funds and was delighted to see it move to Market Square. Chesham has benefited from his vision and contribution to the museum.

Twinning AGM

Both the town mayor and deputy mayor of Chesham, Cllrs Justine Fulford and Jane Bramwell, attended Chesham Town Twinning association’s annual general meeting on Saturday 30 January. They heard chairman Peter Fletcher review a busy 2009, treasurer Andrew Ketteringham tell of an increase in funds raised, and membership secretary Marianne Lambert speak of an increase in membership. In his review of the year, his first in the chair, Peter looked back at a successful international weekend in Chesham in May, when visitors from Houilles, France, and Friedrichsdorf, Germany, took part in many activities; at talks, a boules evening and garden lunch staged by the association’s 31 Club; and at a successful quiz in November. There had also been a visit to Friedrichsdorf in September for a cultural weekend. The coming year will see Chesham members visiting their Spanish twin town, Archena, Murcia, in April, and Houilles in May for the 2010 International Weekend. In September, it will be Chesham’s turn to host a cultural weekend, with visitors from Germany and France helping to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the first twinning ceremony with Friedrichsdorf. Visit www.cheshamtwinning.com/

Commemorate Fairtrade's Fifth Birthday

Chesham was the first town in Bucks to be awarded Fairtrade Town Status in 2005. Fairtrade is a fair system of production that alleviates poverty and enables sustainable development in the world's poorest countries. Since 2005, more and more Chesham businesses have become Fairtrade workplaces and the range of Fairtrade products sold in the town has expanded to include not just food and drink, but flowers, beauty products, footballs and even socks. The Chesham4Fairtrade Group is hosting two events in March to celebrate the fifth birthday and everyone is invited. The Fairtrade Fashion Show and Poetry Awards Evening will take place at the Elgiva on Thursday 4 March at 7.30pm. See the latest Fairtrade fashion collections, plus creations by local designers. There will be entertainment by Shed@ ThePark, Chesham dancers and musicians along with the poetry competition awards ceremony. Stalls, displays and Fairtrade refreshments will be available from 6.30pm. To book tickets visit www.elgiva.com or call the box office on 01494 582900.
Chesham Fairtrade's 5th Birthday Party will be held at the Town Hall on Saturday 27 March from 10am to 4pm. Activities include a Fairtrade cafe, cookery demonstration, cake competition, a live-link with Ghana, local producers stalls, children's activities, key speakers and a floating fashion show. Entrance costs £1 for adults and children go free, with entry into a draw for a Fairtrade and local hamper. Go along and help to celebrate the difference made over the last five years, by Chesham buying Fairtrade. It's easy to become a Fairtrade Workplace by switching to Fairtrade refreshments like tea. To find out more visit Chesham4Fairtrade
www.chesham4fairtrade.co.uk.

Allotment Holders Keep Busy

Chesham Horticultural Society seed potato sale will be held Saturday 13, Saturday 20 and Saturday 27 February at Plot 3, Cameron Road allotments, from 9.30am to noon. Chesham Allotments Group will provide tea, coffee and cake from the Focal Point on Cameron Road Allotments and there will be a seed swap of saved seeds from last autumn, or of viable, unused seeds left over. Bring seeds to swap, or come with a donation and pick from numerous varieties of salad, vegetable and bean seeds. Chesham Town Council allotment sites are fully tenanted, but you can join the waiting list. Rental is charged per 25.3 square metre (per pole) and at October 2009 they cost: Amersham Road £3.25, Cameron Road £2.75, Asheridge Road £3.25.

Keep Trade Local

The Chesham Chamber of Trade and Commerce in association with the Federation of Small Businesses is hosting a Keep Trade Local evening. It is for all businesses, charities and politicians and will be on Tuesday 23 February at Chartridge golf club at 5.30 for 6pm. There will be free networking and support for local business with wine and canapes. Daniel Gregor, chairman of the Chamber said, “The Chesham Chamber of Commerce and FSB launched Chesham’s Keep Trade Local campaign last year in support of our local business community. We believe Keep Trade Local is an important message for Chesham and vital to the success of our town.” The Chesham Chamber of Trade and Commerce exists for Chesham and its members, to promote trade and foster businesses. The importance of supporting business within the local community is even greater during these turbulent economic times. Dan continued, “We anticipate that the event will be opened by Cheryl Gillan MP, schedule permitting, and will be followed by networking, some thoughts about how we can promote local trade and an opportunity to meet local customers, suppliers and contacts". Don’t forget to reply to your invitation by calling 0800 027 3842 or email secretary@cheshamchamber.org.

Grant Money For South Bucks

A reminder that the Buckinghamshire Foundation makes grants to local groups and associations, with a maximum grant of £5,000 per group. The Buckinghamshire Foundation invites fresh applications from interested local groups. Written applications should be in the hands of the Committee by Thursday 18 February. For more information contact baldev.dhillon@tiscali.co.uk.

Manet the Artist

On Wednesday 17 February you can hear Barbara Young speaking on Manet at the Chesham Society meeting. It will be at the town hall at 7.30 for 8pm. Guests are welcome for £1 including refreshments. If you need help to get there call Bernard Meldrum on 01494 782073.

Sharing Drug Concerns

The Drug Prevention Club meets on the second Thursday every month at 7.30pm in the Town Hall. The next meeting will be on Thursday 11 February. Just show up, call 01296 387034 or email bucksdaat@buckscc.gov.uk.

Calling all Artists

Are you stuck indoors because of the cold weather? Get painting now for the Art at Christ Church, Waterside exhibition from Friday 30 April – Sunday 2 May 2010. The theme is The Good Earth and a wide variety of works by local artists can be displayed and offered for sale. It is part of the Waterside Festival 2010. Schedules and entry forms are available from Hilary Unwin call 01494 725228 or email hilaryunwin@yahoo.co.uk.

Samaritans Battle Through Snow to Keep Amersham Branch Open

As you know, the Chilterns has had to deal with some extreme weather over the last month or so. Snow and ice have bought whole neighbourhoods to a standstill and closed schools and businesses. But through all this, the volunteers of the Samaritans in Amersham have ensured that the branch has stayed open – to be there to talk to anyone in distress or despair, or experiencing feelings of suicide. If you would like to find out about the work of the Samaritans, and the team of volunteers who will go to any lengths to make sure there is always someone to answer the phone, email Catherine Eyres on catherine.eyres@gmail.com and she can arrange for you to have a chat to Gill Owen-Conway, Director of the Chiltern Samaritans.

Chesham Town Twinning Annual Meeting

Chesham Town Twinning Annual General Meeting will be on Saturday 30 January 2010. It will be at the Chesham Guide head quarters in Lowndes Park and starts at 7.30pm followed by supper for those who have booked. They will hear among other things, the good news that Profit on the quiz last November was £680, making the profit for 2009 on social events in the region of £1600. Tony White said, “Profit on the quiz was in fact, £724.67. As with all money raised, it will be used to entertain our German, French and Spanish friends when they make their visits to Chesham”.

Abba Night Draws Ever Closer

An Abba Night is being organised by Chesham Park Community College PTA (Parent Teacher Association). It takes place on Saturday 6 February in the main hall at the school in Chartridge Lane, commencing at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £12 and need to be purchased in advance through the college office. Refreshments will be available and a barbecue, so it promises to be an enjoyable evening.
(Please note the PTA Quiz Night has been rescheduled from 27 March to Saturday 8 May)

Musical Medley in Amersham

On Saturday 6 February at 7 for 7.30pm there will be a choral evening with the award winning Wycombe Orpheus Male Voice Choir at Amersham Free Church, Woodside Road, Amersham. The choir will sing everything from well-loved hymns, show songs and gospel favourites to modern pop songs, in a vibrant and exciting vocal style. All proceeds will go to the HeartScan appeal. Tickets cost £10 each from Scannappeal, Amersham Hospital, call 01494 734161 with your credit card details ready or email info.scannappeal@buckshosp.nhs.uk. Scannappeal is a local charity based at Amersham Hospital, which raises money for vital medical equipment for hospitals within the Bucks NHS Trust. One of the current appeals is the HeartScan Appeal which aims to raise £40,000 to start a cardiac imaging service at Amersham Hospital. This will mean patients can be seen locally and many more scans per year can be carried out.

Street Collection Amersham for Haiti Appeal

The next project Amersham Rotary Club has organised is a street collection in Amersham on Saturday 30 January (with permission of Chiltern District Council). Chalmers Cursley said, “We will be collecting for the Rotary International Britain and Ireland (RIBI), Haiti Earthquake Appeal, and we hope to have a demonstration Shelter Box for people to see.” Amersham Rotary Club has already donated £1,000 plus the purchase of two Shelter Boxes at £500 each to this appeal. ShelterBox is an international disaster relief charity that delivers emergency shelter, warmth and dignity to people affected by disaster worldwide. They respond instantly to natural and manmade disasters such as earthquake, volcano, flood, hurricane, cyclone, tsunami or conflict, by delivering boxes of aid to those who are most in need. Each box supplies an extended family of up to 10 people with a tent and essential equipment to use while they are displaced or homeless. The contents are tailored depending on the nature and location of the disaster, with care taken sourcing every item to ensure it will be be of lasting value. The cost of a box is £490, including delivery direct to those who need it. Each box bears its own unique number so as a donor you can track your box all the way to its recipient country via the website. Trained ShelterBox Response Teams distribute boxes on the ground, working with local organisations, international aid agencies and Rotary clubs worldwide.

Real Food talk at Transition Drinks on Thursday 28 January

To kick the new year off to a flying start Richard Elkington has organised a speaker for Chesham in Transition. He is Philip Lowery, founder of The Real Food Festival, to talk about Why Real Food is the only route to a healthy, sustainable and secure future. It will be on at The Drawingroom on Thursday 28 January for Chesham in Transition. If you’re confused about what real food is, here’s your chance to speak to someone who can tell you. With the government now realising that business as usual isn’t an option as far as our food system is concerned, there still seems to be a suggestion that GM could play a role in their strategy for a food secure Britain. On the evidence to date, this is the wrong approach. What is Real Food and what part can it play in our health and a sustainable food future for us and our children? If you’re planning to go, do bring wine if you’d like a drink - The Drawingroom charges corkage, there’s a £1 sub and food, nibbles and hot drinks are also available.Green Drinks is held on the last Thursday of every month - 7.30 till 9.30pm.

Feel a Poem Coming On?

Colin Cartwright, Chair of Chesham4Fairtrade has got into the mood of 2010 and written a poem to mark the start of this new decade. The Reverend Colin Cartwright said, “I did this partly to encourage people to contribute a poem to our poetry competition on the theme of Fairtrade. The deadline is Sunday 31 January, so people had better get scribbling.” Copies of the rules for the competition are available at the Town Hall, Chesham Library or from the website www.chesham4fairtrade.co.uk. Because of the limitations of this website and e-bulletin we are reproducing the poem without linebreaks – insert them where you see the double slashes.
See Fairtrade Poetry Competition underway.

Deciding Decades
So much for ' the Noughties', //Or is that 'the Naughties'? //A lot of fun was had //- Andrew Marr himself said. //But we've got a hang-over; //There's no way to fly-over //The world's problems and issues - //But, no need for the tissues. //These challenges call for //Courage and brain even more. //So, what of this next ten years, //With all our different hopes and fears? //We can't even decide //What to call this decade. //But we know our recent history - //The 'Chesham Fairtrade town' story. //Too many to thank here //For the last five year. //But you can all join and be hearty //At our 5th Fairtrade Birthday party. //Come to Town Hall to celebrate, //Let's make it a date //(The 27th of March, that is). //And, if we double our efforts, //We could make this, of sorts, //'The Decade //Of Fairtrade'.

Act Voluntarily – Find Your Ideal Position

January is a great chance to consider new challenges and the team at Voluntary Action have some ideas of how you can get involved in your community to develop new skills, make new friends, gain confidence or improve your cv. Contact the Volunteer Centre to find out more on what could suit your interests, time and location. Joy Johns said, “We are now running drop in sessions from 10am – noon every Tuesday at Chesham Library, and other times and locations by appointment." Call 01895 837545, email joy@voluntaryaction.org or visit www.voluntaryaction.org.
Drivers for Chesham Voluntary Hospital Car service – If you have you a car and time to spare you can take local people to hospital and doctors appointments, at times to suit you. Expenses paid.
Chiltern Voice needs a Website and E-bulletin Coordinator (This one’s for us!) Get a buzz from being involved with your own town by updating information for the independent website Chiltern Voice What's on in Chesham and district, supplied by the people for the people. Work from home at times to suit.
Chesham Museum Fundraiser. Your creative ideas could help develop and keep the museum running. Someone is needed to coordinate events and fundraising ideas to raise about £12k pa. You would work with existing committee and volunteers.
Activities Helper for Under 5s - Help on Saturday morning to assist and set out toys/furniture for a fathers’ early years literacy session at Waterside children’s centre, Chesham.
Amersham Common Village Hall requires a booking secretary to manage the hiring of rooms, collect fees and keep accounts. It will take two hours per week mostly from home, with committee meetings every two months. You need a good telephone manner, email, good with money, and be able to report to a committee.

Amersham Rotary Club Young Chef Competition 2010

This popular Rotary competition sees young people putting their culinary and creative skills to the test. Rotary in Great Britain and Ireland believe it is highly important to encourage and develop creativity in young people, and this includes creativity in the kitchen. Cooking is a growing interest and a valuable life skill. Schools seem to agree and hence the Rotary Young Chef competition moves from strength to strength each year producing some superb quality cooking from our young people aged from 11 to 18. The heat of this year’s competition organised by Pat Armstrong of The Rotary Club of Amersham proved popular, with 21 entries for the cooking stage held on Saturday 16 January at Chesham Park Community College. All were considered to be of a high standard.
Chief Judge Chef Adam Whitlock helped to select the six contestants: Laurel Turton and Rebecca Lewts of the Misbourne School, Jamie Hollander of Dr Challoner’s Grammar School, and Beth Chater, Jenna Reid and Ruby Stewart-Liberty from Dr Challoner’s High School. Overall winner was Ruby Stewart-Liberty whose dishes; Harissa Marinated Chicken with red grapefruit salad and brown rice, accompanied by a dessert of Strawberry Fool with French Madeleine’s and summer berries were chosen for content, appearance and table presentation. The winner will now proceed to the District round of the competition, which will be held in Aylesbury on Saturday 27 February. The National Finalist will win a trip to the olive fields of Tuscany, sponsored by Fillipio Berio, and other prizes include a visit to Jamie Oliver’s 15 Restaurant. Amersham Rotary Club is grateful to Adam and Katy, who work at Gilbey’s Restaurant, Old Amersham, for their help, and also the Chesham Park Community College for their help and support and use of their facilities. Should you be interested in the 2011 competition please contact Pat Armstrong on 01494 726961 email michael.armstrong7@ntlworld.com. Or to find out more about Young Chef and many other Rotary competitions for young people visit www.amershamrotary.org and click on Youth Opportunities.

AGM Time Again

The Chesham Society Annual General Meeting will be on Wednesday 27 January. It is at the Town Hall at 7.30pm for 8pm.

Church at the Pub

To find out more about St Mary’s Church without venturing inside, there will be another Open House at the Queen’s Head pub on Tuesday 26 January 2010 from 8.30 – 9.30pm. Team Rector Simon Cansdale will host an informal friendly discussion on questions like: Is there a God? Who Was Jesus? and What Makes you a Christian?

Final Performance of Chiltern Music-live!

Don't miss out. Saturday 16 January 2010 at 7.30pm at St Mary’s Church, is your last chance ever to see Chiltern Baroque Soloists Chiltern Music-live! (see Chiltern Baroque Soloists). Tickets cost £12, £10 for seniors and £5 for concessions available from Perfect Pitch, 72 The Broadway (closed Thursdays) call 01494 774826, Lucia’s Delicatessen, 8 Market Square call 01494 776757 and The Record Shop, 5 Woodside Road, Amersham call 01494 433311. Email Patrick Arbuthnot treasurer@chilternmusic-live.org.

Gardeners Group Meeting

The first meeting of the Gardeners Group for 2010 is on Thursday 21 January at 8pm at the White Hill Centre. The speaker will be Mr Mike Baker of the Alpine Society talking on the Alpines of Wyoming and Colorado. The Gardeners Group is a long established group which meets at the White Hill Centre on the third Thursday of the month. For this year the group plans talks, plant sales, visits to gardens and a long weekend. Chris Hosier said, "We are a friendly club and welcome visitors and new members”. For details call Chris on 01494 771807.

Beauty and the Beast - January Treat

Chesham Bois Catholic Players proudly present a traditional family pantomime, Beauty and the Beast by James Barry. The large cast, whose ages range from seven to more than 60, will be giving their all in this classic tale re-told with well-known songs, lively dancing, action and laughter and lots of it’s behind you moments. There are baddies and goodies – not forgetting Dobbin the horse. Chesham Bois Catholic Players have been established for over 50 years and produce three productions a year – two at The Little Theatre by the Park in Church Street and the January pantomime at the Elgiva. They are well known for their family friendly approach to pantomimes. Liz Turner said, “Come along and join in the fun – audience participation is encouraged. Book today and give the whole family a New Year treat.” It is on Saturday 16 January at 1.30 and 5.30pm, Sunday 17 January at 2.30pm, Friday 22 January at 7.30pm and Saturday 23 January again at 1.30 and 5.30pm. Call the Elgiva box office on 01494 58290. Adults pay £12, concessions £8, and a family of two adults and children costs £35. There is a group rate if you buy 10 tickets you get the 11th free although that does not apply to family tickets. Liz continued, “We will be supporting Florence Nightingale Hospice and Brain Tumour UK through collections at all our performances.”

FairTrade Fashion Challenge

The seasonal photo by Chris Short shows Nicky, one of the models from Chesham's Fairtrade Fashion Show, modelling an outfit made by Clem Short of Short Courture, from recycled clothes. The jacket is made from a shrunken cardigan with details added from a cut-up shirt, and new buttons. The hat is made from a T-shirt, and the bag from a pair of jeans, lined with the rest of the shirt.

Shed@Thepark – Colour The World

Buckinghamshire children’s and young people’s theatre company Shed@thePark is performing its five year anniversary showcase Colour the World at the Wycombe Swan Theatre on Sunday 7 February 2010. Visit www.colourtheworld.org.uk. Rehearsals are in full swing for this gala performance of dance, drama and song. It promises to be an amazing theatrical experience for all the family, telling the story of how a small theatre company is founded and flourishes against the odds. It opens hearts and minds and makes anything possible. Shed @ThePark is a pioneering, passionate theatre company which embraces and values everyone, inspiring excellence in the arts. As an outreach project of the famous London based Chickenshed it is celebrating five years of inclusive theatre within the Buckinghamshire community. Artistic Director Lyndsey Gonzalez Romero said, “Battling through ice and snow our enthusiastic and talented young people are giving their all to rehearsals for what is going to be an exciting performance. We cannot wait to show the results.” The performance is the culmination of a six month long Community Conversation aiming to rebuild lost community connections through intergenerational and intercultural arts based initiatives involving and based on the lives of hundreds of local people. Lyndsey continued, "At Shed@ thePark everyone counts and everyone can join in. Those who are usually at risk of exclusion through health, social development or ethnic diversity are welcome. We believe that Anything is Possible. Tickets are selling fast so do join us for a colourful and unforgettable evening by the young people of Buckinghamshire." See Voice earlier piece Shed @ The Park Gala Performance at Wycombe Swan Theatre.

Chiltern Baroque Soloists

Book now for Saturday 16 January 2010 at 7.30pm at St Mary’s Church, Chesham, the farewell performance from Chiltern Baroque Soloists Chiltern Music-live! (see previous World class musicians will play for us). Tickets cost £12, £10 for seniors and £5 for concessions available from Perfect Pitch, 72 The Broadway (closed Thursdays) call 01494 774826, Lucia’s Delicatessen, 8 Market Square call 01494 776757 and The Record Shop, 5 Woodside Road, Amersham call 01494 433311. Patrick Arbuthnot writes to patrons and supporters of Chiltern Music-live, that they could find no one to continue the role that Moira Allum had filled over a number of years in organising the concerts and the raising additional funding required to make the concerts financially viable. “Sadly, we have to accept that this will be the last event under the auspices of Chiltern Music-live. Even with the good ticket sales for this concert our reserves will be depleted to the point where we cannot finance further events”, he said, and went on to thank everyone for their support. Enquiries to Patrick Arbuthnot treasurer@chilternmusic-live.org .

May Fair on Ley Hill?

The Ley Hill pubs are looking to initiate an annual May Fair around the pubs and on the common. The plan is to provide a venue for local producers of arts and crafts, food and drink as well as music and dance; the beacon could even be disguised as a Maypole for the event. Contact Rohan on 01494 783910 if you have an interest.

Party on 31 December

Enjoy a New Year’s Eve Party for adults – well everyone aged over 13. It will be at Chesham Youth Club from 7pm – 1am. Tickets cost £15 which includes food but bring your own drink. There will be a disco, raffle and a tombola. Entry is by numbered ticket only, and one lucky ticket will win a bottle of Champagne. To book call Diane on 01494 774545 or email dibrackley@hotmail.com.

Life in the UK

Citizenship Classes are being planned for people who are preparing to sit the British Citizenship test. The course will start on Thursday 14 January 2010 at 7.30pm at Emmanuel Church in Broad Street. Sue Cady told me, “It is aimed at people who can speak English and want to do the electronic Life in the UK Test. It is quite separate from courses put on by Adult Learning.” Students will need to be working at a level of E2 or above to benefit. It will cost £2 per session and depending on the ability of students these could run for a term. It is not for profit, the charge is to cover set up costs only. The Life in the UK Test that is now required for settlement (indefinite leave to remain) in the UK or for British citizenship. Call Sue on 07977 219305.

Knights Support St Francis

Following the recent successful concert in Berkhamsted, arranged by local chorus The Knights of Harmony, a cheque for £2,700 was presented to the Hospice of St Francis. The concert included the Knights, together with the ladies from Amersham A Cappella and the Kings Langley Community Choir. Speaking on behalf of the chorus, Colin Meehan said they were delighted to support such a worthy cause. See previous report Chesham Choir Wins.

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.

Sleigh Touring Chesham

The Chesham Round Table Christmas sleigh is wending its way around the town, and a popular portent of Christmas it is too. The Christmas music cannot be ignored and they take up donations for charity. Joanne Blackwell told me that various organizations can help on different nights. On Monday 14 December Brushwood School PTA helped in the Beechcroft and Poles Hill areas, and collected £500 which will be added to the total and divided among the charities at the end of the tour. On Thursday 17 December the sleigh will travel in Waterside to Lord’s Mill and Bois Moor Road, assisted by the Waterside School PTA; and on Friday 18 December it will cover Ley Hill and Botley Road with assistance from Shed @ ThePark.

Tudor Folk Club

The Murphies - comprising John Murphy on banjo; John-Paul Murphy on guitar; Connor O’Byrne on fiddle and Johnny the Mushroom on kazoo and vocals - will be playing at the Wild Rover in Red Lion Street next Sunday 20 December at 9pm.
At Tudor Folk Club at the White Hill Centre next Monday 21 December Johnny said, “We have our Christmas Party at 8.15pm. The price is £3 for non members and it’s free for members. There is also free food, so if anyone could bring a few nibbles that would be very nice. Everybody is welcome.” Visit www.tudorfolkclub.org.uk.

Chesham Scoutpost – 2009 closes Sunday 20 December

Chesham Scout Groups are again operating a Christmas card delivery service for this year. In conjunction with Amersham Scoutpost, deliveries will be made to the following areas: Chesham, Chesham Bois, Amersham on the Hill, Old Amersham, Little Chalfont, Hyde Heath. They will also cover the following other Chesham areas: Asheridge, Ashley Green, Bellingdon, Botley, Chartridge, Ley Hill, Orchard Leigh, Pednor, Tylers Hill, and The Vale. Stamps cost 20p (10p less than Royal Mail) and are available from the following outlets in Chesham. Each outlet also has a posting box: Berkeley Stores; Brackleys Newsagents; Broadway News; Bulldog News; Costcutter, Greenway; McMinn Centre; Newtown News; Pearces; Waterside Sandwich Bar and the White Hill Centre. Stamps are also available from any of the Chesham Scout Groups. The last posting date is Sunday 20 December. All correctly addressed post to the above areas will be delivered before Christmas.

Chesham and District Community Association

The White Hill Centre will close for Christmas on Wednesday 23 December at noon and reopen on Monday 4 January at 9am. The raffle was drawn on Thursday 17 December. Call 01494 775190 or email whitehillcentre@hotmail.co.uk.

Well Done The Workers

Chesham Environmental Group’s next work party is on Sunday 20 December. Georgina Lomnitz said, “We'll be weeding and tidying up the shrubbery along the wall of Colour Supplies, St. Mary's Way, to give people a clear walk through. Bring gloves, secateurs and a hand fork and meet at Watermeadow car park at 10am. After our hard work, we'll go to the Queen's Head with the first drink on Chairman Phil Folly,” Georgina added. Thank you for all you do for Chesham, I hope someone else buys all the drinks.

Christmas Parcels Scheme for Chesham and Amersham

This year it is the ninth annual Amersham & Chesham Christmas Parcels Scheme. It started at Tesco's, Amersham last Saturday. On Thursday 10 and Friday 11 December volunteers from community service organisations ie. Lions, Rotarians and Round Tables, together with schools, will be collecting donations of food from shoppers at Waitrose. On Saturday 12 December it will be the turn of shoppers at Sainsbury's to contribute. All these food items, together with more bought with charity funds donated by service organisations, and many donated bananas, will be made into parcels/boxes and delivered to needy local residents on Sunday 13 December. Lion Dennis Wright, secretary said, “We ask that the public support this Christmas appeal, as they have done generously in previous years, by buying an extra food item whilst shopping, and putting it in one of our specially labelled trolleys. On behalf of local people less fortunate than ourselves – thank you.”

Fair for Christmas at the High

Chesham High School is holding its Christmas Fair on Thursday 10 December from 6.30 to 9pm, at the school on White Hill, Chesham. There will be stalls for your Christmas shopping, including jewellery, cards, scarves, kitchenware, ceramics, gifts, phone charms, photography, pottery handbags, painted glass and lots more. The school choir will be singing carols, there will be a raffle with prizes donated by the stallholders and a cafe selling drinks and homemade cakes. Entry costs £3 for adults to include a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie, and children go free. Call Viv Church on 01442 831158.

School Fayre for Brushwood

Brushwood School Christmas Fayre will be on Saturday 5 December from 2 - 4pm at Brushwood Junior School, Brushwood Road, Chesham HP5 3DW. See Father Christmas in his snowy grotto and you can buy fresh wreaths and table decorations. There will be lots of stalls - a bottle tombola, adopt a Teddy and Christmas raffle with fabulous prizes. Enjoy tea, home baked cakes and mince pies served by the teachers. Sue Coleman said, "Please come and join us for Brushwood's main fundraising event”.

Christingles Enabled

Make your own Christingle. Audrey White said, “Just go along to St Mary’s Church at 4pm on Sunday 6 December. Everyone is welcome.” Wikipedia, the free encyclopaedia says, A Christingle is a symbolic object used in services in the period immediately before Christmas in churches of many Christian denominations. The first recorded use was in Germany in 1747. If necessary call Audrey on 01494 785713.

Tree Planting Saturday 5 December

The weekend is going to be a busy and exciting time for the Friends of Lowndes Park. On Saturday 5 December they are taking part in a BBC sponsored tree planting event and on Sunday 6 December there is their usual monthly working party. It is National Tree Week and the BBC aims to get as many people as possible across the UK to plant a tree between 11am and noon. They want to increase local biodiversity and break the Guinness World record for the highest number of trees planted in one hour. Joan Clark has obtained three trees from Focus, who were giving away one per household, the other two were kindly donated to the Friends by customers in the shop. The Friends of Lowndes Park will meet at the Guide Hut at 10.30am and everyone is welcome to join them. One of the BBC conditions is to take photos of the planting showing the date and time, so Joan said, “Please bring your cameras”.

If that wasn't enough excitement on Sunday 6 December they have their monthly working party to do clearing work in the wild area and general tidy up before the Christmas period.

Thomas Harding Christmas Cracker

Please come to the Winter Fair - the Thomas Harding Christmas Cracker. It is on Saturday 5 December, from noon – 2pm. Michele Blackmore of Thomas Harding PTA said, “There will be a raffle with £50 first prize and many other fantastic prizes. We'll also have a number of Tombolas - bottles, sweets, toiletries and Christmas hampers. There are also cakes, refreshments, a reindeer racing game, and crafts such as make a book mark, make a bauble and make a card. You can decorate a biscuit (and eat it). Guess the number of sweets in the jar, guess the weight of the cake, and guess the unicorn's favourite food to win a prize. There is a wrap a present service and children can visit Santa in his grotto. We hope to see you there.”

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.

Family Fun at Whelpley Hill Xmas Fayre

Fun for all the family at the Whelpley Hill Christmas Fayre on Saturday 5 December from 2 - 4pm in the Coronation Hall. There will be some fabulous gift stalls, festive refreshments, a tombola, a raffle, and an arts and crafts stall to keep the children busy. Father Christmas will be arriving around 3pm by his special mode of transport to greet all the children with a small gift. Everyone is invited. Pauline Stacey said, “Please do come along and support our village community in raising funds for our hall refurbishment whilst enjoying yourself. Whelpley Hill can be found just off the B4505 close to the entrance to Bovingdon airfield.”

Shed @ The Park Gala Performance at Wycombe Swan Theatre

Buckinghamshire children’s and young people’s theatre company Shed@ thePark is performing its five year anniversary showcase Colour the World at the Wycombe Swan Theatre on Sunday 7 February 2010. This gala performance of dance, drama, and song will be a theatrical experience for all the family. Telling the story of how a small theatre company is founded and flourishes against the odds, it opens hearts and minds and makes anything possible. Shed @ ThePark is a pioneering, passionate theatre company which embraces and values everyone, inspiring excellence in the Arts. As an outreach project of the famous London based Chickenshed, they are celebrating five years of inclusive theatre within the Buckinghamshire community. Banish the winter blues, forget the recession and enjoy a colourful, unforgettable evening of inspiring theatre by young people. Visit www.shedatthepark.co.uk or buy tickets from the Wycombe Swan Theatre at www.wycombeswan.co.uk.

Chesham Bois School Fayre on Saturday 5 December

Chesham Bois PTA warmly invites you to join them for their annual Christmas Fayre. Sarah Sheppard said, “This year we are raising funds to create a new Outdoor Learning Environment which will benefit all the children in the school, allowing them to enjoy a creative perspective on their curricular activities. The fayre will take place on Saturday 5 December from 11.30 to 2.30pm in the school hall on Bois Lane. We have all sorts lined up for your entertainment.” Make your own cuddly bear in the Teddy Workshop, see if you can pin Rudolph's nose back on, visit Santa in his enchanting grotto, enjoy delicious doughnuts or food from the Squirrel Cafe and win prizes from the magic money tree, teddy tombola and treasure hunt. You can create a sparkling table decoration, secretly wrap gifts or browse the stalls selling craft and other items. The children can have their faces painted or their nails done, while adults enjoy a hand or foot massage and a glass of mulled wine. Sarah added, “It is set to be a fun-filled magical way to start the Christmas countdown - please do come along and join us.”

Paradigm and Connaught Put Back into the Community

Connaught Partnerships Ltd received the Volunteer Action (Chiltern & South Bucks) Award for the Best Employer Supported Volunteering Programme. It was in recognition of projects undertaken as repairs and improvement works continue to their properties. In particular, the work on Woodrow High House with volunteers from Paradigm Housing Group was recognized and the photo shows David John with the award.
The CAB’s office makeover earned a certificate, thanks to the Paradigm Housing Connaught Community Initiatives Forum. The work was carried out by skilled volunteers from Connaught, and the Bureau looks very smart with a fourth interview room enabling better service to the clients.

Salvation Army

The Salvation Army will be hosting a Christmas tree festival at the Salvation Army Hall, Broad St, Chesham, HP5 3EA. It will be held from Thursday 3 December to Saturday 5 December between 10.30am and 3.30pm. The theme is colours of the Rainbow. The hall will be open from 10.30am - 3.30pm on each of the days, and light refreshments will be served.

Chess Supporters Meet Again

The second River Chess Association meeting will be on Wednesday 2 December 2009 at 7.30pm at Micklefield Hall, Sarratt, Herfordshire WD3 6AQ. The Aims of the Association will be discussed and hopefully adopted. Members of the Association will be enrolled and officers appointed. The film Rivers on the Edge by Charles Rangely Wilson, sponsored by WWF will be shown (it only lasts 10 minutes), and there will be a presentation on River Chess restoration and rehabilitation work by David Hyde. You need the agenda for directions to Micklefield Hall. Call if necessary 07766 406718.

Salvation Seasonal Concert

The Salvation Army Christmas concert at the Elgiva last week was a sell out, Major Maureen Wiffin said it all went very well. Apart from the Salvation Army sections taking part, the Thomas Harding Junior school sang a few songs and performed beautifully. The Mayor Cllr Justine Fulford attended and part of the proceeds of the evening will go to the Mayor's chosen charity, Shed @ The Park.

Waterside Christmas Fayre

Christ Church holds its Christmas Fayre on Saturday 5 December from 11am to 1pm. It is at Christ Church, Waterside. There will be Father Christmas, a puppet show, lacemaking demonstrations, a cake stall and toys and games. As well as that you can enjoy a light lunch.

Voles Increase Threefold

The Chilterns Conservation Board has issued a press release headed Good news for Ratty. A survey has found an exciting increase in the numbers of one of Britain’s rarest mammals in the Chess Valley. Good numbers of water voles, have been found along the River Chess between Chesham and Chorleywood. The survey was organised by the Berks Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust, with support from the Chilterns Chalk Streams Project, and is the fifth survey to have been carried out on the River Chess since 2001. Water voles, which live on river banks, have been in decline nationally for years. By 2003 there were very few on the Chess, but the population has dramatically increased since then. There are now an estimated 300 voles along the river – a threefold increase since 2007. Allen Beechey of the Chilterns Chalk Streams Project said, “This fantastic news shows we are doing the right things to help water voles recover on the Chess. We’ve been working with landowners to restoring bank-side vegetation and trap feral mink, which prey on the voles. We have to remain vigilant because mink are still being found near the river.” The success of voles along the Chess ties in with the news announced by British Waterways this week that there has been an increase in water voles along the canals and waterways they manage.

Chess Clean Up at Waterside

The silt disturbance at the Chess near the Moore at Waterside is a continuation of works that were started some time ago - possibly in November 2008. The Flood Defence team of the Environment Agency were unable to complete the work last time. The planned programme includes: tree works (coppicing and pollarding); removing deep pockets of silt and reed rhizomes; backfilling with gravel to provide a beneficial habitat and make maintenance easier in the future. Kathryn Graves, Policy & Projects Officer at Chesham Town Council said, “The Conservation Department of the EA will be attending in future to plan the planting of reeds in one part of that stretch.”

Fairtrade Poetry Competition underway

Calling all creative writers and would-be poets. Chesham4Fairtrade is challenging the people of the Chilterns to write a poem about Fairtrade, to help celebrate Chesham's five years since becoming the first Fairtrade Town In Buckinghamshire. Wannabe poets might win prizes of book vouchers and Fairtrade chocolates. There is the chance to read your poem, or have your poem read, at an awards evening at the Elgiva next year. The inclusive theatre company, Shed @ thePark is promoting the competition and will lead a day workshop on poetry and Fairtrade at Thomas Harding Junior School later this month. Winning poems from the five age categories and those which achieve a second or commended placing will be displayed at Chesham Library.
Chairman of Chesham4Fairtrade, Rev Colin Cartwright commented, "I am very grateful to our four judges and our volunteer co-ordinator, Jessy Roope. I know there is a lot of untapped creative talent in Chesham, among both schoolchildren and adults. I look forward, with our four judges, to reading the poems and to seeing how the good news of Fairtrade has inspired local people to make a difference in our world by supporting farmers in the developing world when they go shopping." Rules are available from the Town Hall, Chesham Library or from the website of Chesham4fairtrade www.chesham4fairtrade.co.uk. Deadline for the competition is Sunday 31 January 2010. Call Colin Cartwright, Chair of Chesham4Fairtrade on 01494 775651 or Miss Gonzalez Romero, Shed@thePark, email lgonzalezromero@bucksgfl.org.uk. Refer Chesham’s got talent from Thursday, 13 August 2009.

Take a chair for CVA&HS

The next meeting of the Chess Valley Archaeological and Historical Society will be held in the White Hill Centre, Chesham and will begin at 8pm on Friday 20 November. The talk is being given by Catherine Grigg from the High Wycombe Museum. Catherine will explain about recent work researching the High Wycombe furniture industry. Visitors are welcome and admission costs £2. Call Anne Marshall 01494 725952.

Chesham Didn’t Forget

Remembrance Day in Chesham was well attended – people want to pay their respects to service men and women fallen in war, not only Armistice Day but thinking as well of the recent deaths in Afghanistan. The British Legion managed to extend their usual hospitality after the march, this time in the Town Hall, with some of their silver rescued from the fire, on display. Don’t blame the Examiner for not reporting the details along with the services planned for other towns - the Legion itself had decided not to publicize. Luckily I knew something and we mentioned last week the Remembrance service in The Broadway.

Legions of help

At the Remembrance Day reception the British Legion took the opportunity to thank some of the people who had helped since the fire.

The fire brigade were proud recipients of a framed certificate, they were commended for rescuing so much of the silverware - apparently neighbours’ recycling boxes were used to ferry out the cups. TS Arrow (the Sea Cadets), were also recognized for extending the use of their premises to the Legion. Our picture shows Commanding Officer Chief Petty Officer (SCC) Keith Jones and Petty Officer Cadet Zoe Jones proudly displaying the certificate.

Another award went to Tony Pearson for 24 years of service to the Legion and he is pictured here with his daughter Maria Podbury who has put in 15 years, and son-in-law Andrew Podbury who made the wooden cross for the poppy display.

Memorable Legion

The Youth Council is spearheading a project to collect memorabilia to replace the pictures and bits and pieces that were lost in the fire at the British Legion. The silverware from the cabinets in the front was rescued by the Fire Brigade, and the standards (flags) had been taken to the home of a member, however everything else was lost. The YC members are aware that this is a long term project. Could you help by letting them know of any items related to the Legion that can either be donated, or in the case of old photos, scanned and then returned? Please contact the YC either via the Town Hall, on 01494 778985 or email alisonp76@aol.com (the young people’s emails cannot be published so Alison has volunteered to forward the information).

Chiltern Voice Amersham – Henry Wizgier:

Twinning Quiz
Twinning QuizQuestion: In which European countries do Amersham’s twin towns lie? If you don’t know the answer to that one and would like to find out, why not take in a bit of quiz fun whilst doing it? Amersham-Bensheim Twinning Society and Amersham-Krynica Twinning Association are holding a joint Quiz Evening on Friday 20 November at 7.30pm in the Bor-Komorowski Polish Club, Raans Road. These are always very popular as they have an emphasis on pleasure rather than being extremely knowledgeable. Tickets are £8 each and include a buffet meal, contact Kathy on 01707 659091 or Mora 0707 2281783.

Money for Friends
Fundraising to keep a library going is a 24/7 job and Chairman of Friends of Little Chalfont Library Jim Brooks recently hit on the idea of simply asking for donations. The response to that fundraising letter, which was published in Chiltern Voice, has been fantastic and has resulted in £1,975 worth of donations and £588 p.a. in standing orders. If anyone would like to see the library in action whilst doing some shopping into the bargain, this Saturday 14 November provides an ideal opportunity. The library stands right next to where the Little Chalfont Farmers Market takes place and will be open during the same hours 9am to 1pm. More on this and other Amersham area stories .

MSO at the Movies

The Misbourne Symphony Orchestra begins its 2009/10 concert season at the movies on Saturday 14 November at 7.45pm at the Amersham School, Stanley Hill, Amersham. The programme begins with the Twentieth Century Fox Fanfare followed by a selection of film music by John Williams from Star Wars, ET and Indiana Jones. The second half features leader and Amersham violinist Alan Morris playing Beethoven's Romance in F. To finish there is the Wasps Overture by Vaughan Williams. Tickets are available on the door, from Perfect Pitch, Chesham and from the Record Shop, Amersham. Visit www.misbourne-orchestra.org.uk.

The Age of Stupid

A local group of people concerned about the lack of political action on climate change, is screening the film The Age of Stupid at Chalfonts Community College, Narcot Lane, Chalfont St Peter SL9 8TP on Tuesday 17 November at 7.30pm. If you missed it at the Elgiva on Wednesday 3 June 2009, Chesham in Transition urge you to find out about the growing impact of climate change on our planet. The film starring Pete Postlethwaite, looks back to the beginning of the 21st century from the year 2055 and considers the decisions that we took (or didn’t take) and wonders why we failed to avert the effects of climate change. It is particularly relevent to see The Age of Stupid now, in the run-up to the vital United Nations. Climate Summit in Copenhagen in December. Media producer and lead animator for the Age of Stupid Leo Murray, will speak and answer questions after the showing. There is no charge but it comes at a cost which Transition Towns are covering, so contributions on the evening would be appreciated.

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.

Almost old schoomates

Two of our subscribers - Brian Shrieve and Brian Pratt have been in touch with John Reeve born 1930, see Voice reaches Queensland. They are not quite John’s age but have exchanged some reminiscences. John said, “Brian Pratt sent me a lovely photo of 8 Market Square as I remember it with the side of the house painted with an advert for the shop”. John was also interested to see the articles about the Park and adds some more information. “When I was seventeen or so the bandstand with the seats around was a favourite courting place. There used to be a little covered pergola, another favourite because in those days we were guaranteed safety and privacy.” He also liked the picture of the baulks which are just as he remembers the view.

Aylward traced, what about Plato?

Another success came from Know your Aylward from your Plato. Phil Folly of the Friends of Chesham Cemetery said he received a long and informative email from Richard Weller who is a great grandson of the Revd A F Aylward, and lives in Penistone, near Barnsley, South Yorks. Our own subscriber Hilary Unwin had been in contact with Richard via the Kent Family History discussion site so she drew his attention to our request. It is gratifying that Chiltern Voice is producing results.

Christmas purchases start

Cards for Good Causes charity Christmas card shop is opening in Chesham on Thursday 5 November. Shoppers can buy cards from national and local charities in one place. The Cards for Good Causes shop is at the United Reformed Church in The Broadway. It is staffed by local volunteers, and is open on Mondays to Saturdays from 10am – 4pm, until Wednesday 9 December. Shop Manager Jane Paterson said, “We have cards from 31 charities and almost 250 different designs, as well as some Christmas goods including advent calendars and candles, wrapping, napkins and stocking fillers.” Cards for Good Causes is the largest multi-charity Christmas card organisation in the United Kingdom, and has donated more than £20 million to the charities over the last five years. The shop will be opened by the mayor Cllr Justine Fulford, at 10am on Thursday 5 November - look for the banner and the Father Christmas board outside. Call 01494 772983.

Young Asians deserve acknowledgement

Masud Ahmed of the Asian Welfare Society would like to thank all the young people who worked for the Eid Milan Event on Sunday 18 October 2009. We first reported on Wednesday, 14 October 2009, Education - the door to a better future and again Education provides Asian’s with a better future. As an attendee I was impressed at the organisation that had gone into arrangements, right from the welcome at the front entrance. Everything was thought out to make the day go well. Headteacher of Chesham Park Community College Kevin Patrick said, “We were pleased to host the Eid Milan celebration in the college hall. It was good to listen to a range of adults and students talk about how important education was for them and to enjoy music and dance performances.” Masud said, “Even after the long day, many of the young people stayed on late to clear up not only the college premises but also the grounds.” These young people are working for their community and for the town and we are proud to recognize them.

Rotary donations recognized

Last week the Rotary Club of Chesham welcomed Lady Joy Baker founder of School Aid in 1998, and presented her with its most prestigious award. Vila Maninga is a community project committed to care for children in Mozambique. It has, among other projects, foster homes for orphans, and a primary school to which School Aid sent a container full of books and equipment. David Unwin said, “We had an interesting meeting where the project was described.”

Pond Park will remember them

Hivings Free Church is holding a community service for Remembrance Day on Sunday 8 November. The Reverend Sam Owoo told me there will be a choir from Little Spring School and lots of involvement. Everyone is welcome to the church and the service begins at 10.30am and lasts until noon.

Remembrance service in The Broadway

The annual Service for Remembrance and wreath laying takes place on Sunday 8 November organized by the Royal British Legion (RBL) and involving most of theorganizations and groups in Chesham. It is centred at the war memorial at 11am. Because sadly, the Legion building is not available, there are different parade arrangements this year. After the service, the march past will take place at NatWest Bank in the High Street. The Mayor and officers of the RBL will take the salute standing on the dais with the town councillors in front Remembrance Day – also known as Poppy Day, Armistice Day (the event it commemorates) or Veterans Day – is a day to remember the sacrifices of members of the armed forces and of civilians in times of war.

Poppy Cross

When the British Legion premises at 111 Broad Street, HP5 3EF burnt down in May I was concerned at the loss of memorabilia and indeed some items were lost. One thing which perished was the wooden cross used for poppy display at the war memorial. However Tony Pearson the ex serviceman who, along with his family, does so much for the Legion, arranged for his son in law Andrew Podbury, a qualified carpenter to make a replacement. As the mayor Cllr Justine Fulford told me, “It is a magnificent cross standing proud on its own steps.” You can see from the photo it is a sterling piece of work and you will be able to see it for real at the Remembrance Service on Sunday 8 November. Good things can come from bad.