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.”

Boys’ Introduction to Rugby

Chesham Stags offer a free introduction to rugby training session for Year 8 boys/Under 13s on Sunday 14 March at 10am. It is for any new or existing rugby players and all levels of potential players are welcome. They could be: boys who have never played rugby before; existing players who only play for their school side but enjoy the game and want to play more; players at other clubs who are frustrated at being left on the sidelines or/and players who have just moved into the area. All Chesham coaches are RFU trained and accredited and new players can be assured of the warmest welcome. The session will be held at the clubs training ground at Chesham Park Community College, Chartridge Lane, Chesham. Any potential players should come in football boots and clothes that can get muddy. Potential players can turn up on the day or contact the coaches. Call 01494 765444 or 07831 133642, email under13@cheshamrugbyclub.com or visit www.cheshamrugbyclub.com/minisandyouth.html
We reported Wednesday, 17 February 2010, Chesham Rugby Club Minis and Juniors News
and Wednesday, 24 February 2010 New Chaplain for Chesham Stags.

Celebrating Girlguiding, Have You Been Involved?

Girlguiding continues to celebrate its centenary year which runs until Wednesday 20 October 2010. The next event is an Adult Celebration to which anyone who has been involved in Guiding over the years is invited – whether you have been involved in Chesham or elsewhere. It's on Sunday 21 March from 2.30 – 5pm at the Methodist Church, in Bellingdon Road. Please use town centre car parks unless you have difficulty walking. If you have been a member of the Girlguides (Rainbow, Brownie, Guide, Ranger/Senior Section, Guider, Trefoil Guild) or have had a supporter role, you are invited to join and share your memories. Jane Paterson said, “Bring your memorabilia (photos, badges, uniform etc). It will be an informal gathering to chat, have tea and sing a few of our favourite songs. It would help us with planning the afternoon if you could let us know if you intend to come. But, if you don’t want to commit in advance, feel free to come on the day even if you haven’t told us.” Contact Jane on 01494 772983 email info@girlguidingchesham.org.uk. Jane continued, “We are keen to raise the profile of Girlguiding in the town. We really need to find some more adult supporters - but we currently have room for more girls as well, in some of our units.”

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.

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.

Tennis for Your Toddler from 23 Feb

Tailored to the needs of younger children, Little Aces will bring the joy of tennis to children as young as 18 months in the Chesham and Amersham area. Combining the use of specialised equipment with fun activities, Little Aces aims to develop movement, balance and coordination, the skills children need for tennis and many other sports. Run by local tennis coaches Simon Dunford and James Goodchild, the Little Aces programme uses slower moving balls such as balloon or foam balls and hand paddles take the place of racquets for younger children. The lessons support the key stage of learning including counting, colours, basic shapes, story-telling, communication and learning to play with others. Founder Simon Dunford said, “We’ve found that, given the right equipment and programme children much younger than the usual age at which tennis is introduced, can already start to develop skills. Moreover they can begin to enjoy this amazing game. Little Aces hopes to encourage more junior players into tennis and sport in general so that they can develop into healthy, happy children and hopefully stay with a game they can then play for the rest of their lives. Who knows, we may even discover the next Andy Murray.” Little Aces programmes will be starting in Chesham from Tuesday 23 February at the White Hill Centre. Lessons for 18 months to two and a half year-olds run from 11.15am to noon and two and a half to four year-olds from 12.15 to 1pm. In Amersham from Friday 26 February at Amersham Common Village Hall there will be lessons for 18 months to 2 and a half year-olds running from 10.15 to 11am with 2 and a half to 4 year-olds from 11.15am to noon. Call Simon Dunford on 07776 442880 or email simon@tenniszone.co.uk. See previous piece Wednesday, 13 January 2010, Little Aces.

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.

Chesham Rugby Club Minis and Juniors News

Chesham Stags Minis rugby side were selected to take part in a Pride in Unity parade preceding the Saracens versus Worcester rugby union match at Wembley Stadium on Saturday 13 February. The Stags Minis, from the under seven and under eight teams, parade on the Wembley pitch before the match under the Stag’s club banner. As they paraded, there was a commentary describing the club and its teams. Jane Morris, Chair of Mini and Youth Rugby explained, “The parade is a great opportunity for both the minis and the club. It’s fantastic for the minis to experience the atmosphere of Wembley and the excitement of appearing in front of a large crowd. For the club, it’s a good chance to let a wider audience know about some of the great things we are doing and how active our minis and junior sections are. The event emphasises Chesham Stags’ close relationship with Saracens.” Chesham Stags are an active community rugby club based in Chesham Park Community College in Chartridge Lane. The club features a thriving minis and youths section of more than 150 members. All age groups are represented from age six upwards with both boys and girls playing. The club has active men’s and women’s senior sides with many of the players having risen through the junior ranks. All coaches volunteer their time willingly and receive the appropriate RFU training and accreditation. Founded in 1981, the club has reputation as Bucks friendliest club, an inclusive ethos where children are not left on the sidelines and fair play and sportsmanship are encouraged.

Baby FC - New Classes

The new Baby Football Club seven week course on Saturdays will be starting on Saturday 27 February at the Whitehill Centre at 9.30am. It costs £42 for the complete course. It is a Football Academy for boys and girls aged from birth to five years. Call Sara Osman on 07776 225679 to make a booking, or email sara@babyfc.com because places are going fast.

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.

Young Dancers Converge at the Elgiva

The Chesham Arts Festival is an annual event held during February half term. Covering music, speech and dance the competition allows young talent to perform for an audience and an adjudicator. This year the dance section takes place at the beginning of the week Saturday 13 - Tuesday 16 February at the Elgiva Theatre. The Speech Section will be held at Ley Hill School. With the current renewed interest in dance you might like to see talented young performers from as far afield as Maidenhead, Welwyn, Aylesbury and West London, as well as local Chesham talent. Details of tickets and timings from the website www.cheshamartsfestival.org.uk. Affiliated to the British and International Federation of Festivals for Music Dance and Speech.

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.

CPCC Pupils Find Out Their Options

On Thursday 28 January at 7pm Chesham Park Community College have a Year 9 Options Evening, an important event for this year group. During the evening, students and parents will be able to find out about the wide range of courses that are on offer at Key Stage 4. Headmaster Kevin Patrick said, “This year we have included an additional BTEC course and three Diploma pathways together with over twenty different GCSE subjects”.

Thinking About Half Term

Busy Living is once again holding an Ofsted registered holiday club at Elangeni School in Amersham for all children aged four – 11 years. BLAST (the Busy Living After School Team) provide a daily variety of activities, sports and crafts and encourage the children to choose what they want to do - nothing is compulsory. They provide experienced, CRB checked carers with at least one qualified and first aid trained manager to ensure the safety and happiness of the children. Children enjoy their time at the club, coming from different schools and making new friends. There are flexible bookings, hourly rates of £4 (minimum four hours) or daily booking for a fee of £30 or £26 for siblings. Annette Cook & Linda Walshaw are open every school holiday and for this February from Monday 15 to Friday 19 February from 8am – 6pm daily. Email info@busy-living.co.uk or call 01494 722318.

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.

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.

News From Ley Hill Cricket Club

Congratulations to Ley Hill Cricket Club head cricket coach Dave Peterson on being shortlisted as one of the three top sports coaches in Bucks. The awards ceremony was held by Bucks Sport in November 2009 and Dave was runner up. Junior indoor cricket nets are starting on Sunday 31 January at both Chesham Preparatory School (for boys and girls up to Under 13s) and Westbrook Hay School, Boxmoor (for boys and girls Under 14s to Under 17s) at 5.30pm. Cost is £3 per session. For more information contact the Junior Section Secretary Kate Morris at morrislot@tesco.net.

Little Aces

Train your 20 month old to love tennis. Simon Dunford senior coach at Chesham 1812 Tennis Club has a new idea to involve kids in sport. He’s piloting a scheme called Little Aces to teach tots tennis. Simon is senior coach at the tennis club and already works with school children. He and his colleague James, have had success with two to three year olds at the initial sessions at the White Hill Centre, and plan to roll out the classes in the new year. To find out more call Simon on 07776 442880.

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.

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.

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.

Baby FC

The Football Academy for boys and girls aged from birth to five years, starts its eight week session on Tuesday 5 January 2010. It will be at the White Hill centre at 9.30am. There are still places at this dynamic music and movement programme which will engage children in football and physical activity. Call 07776 225679 or visit www.babyfc.com.

Learn to Sing Course

The Knights of Harmony, the Chesham-based chorus, are promoting a free learn-to-sing course which starts next January at the White Hill Centre, Chesham. Joe Norton the press officer said, “We are seeking to build on the excellent work done by musicians like Gareth Malone through the BBC programme The Choir, and we are fortunate to have secured two gold-medal-winning singers as coaches. Our objective is to persuade people, especially younger men, that they can sing as easily as they can speak. We all have good voices, but singing like anything else, needs to be learnt. It is really great to stand inside a choir and be part of what they're doing and we'd like others to enjoy singing as much as we do.” It is a free course starting at 7.30pm on Thursday 7 January at the White Hill Centre, Chesham. Phone Chas on 01296 668 985. Joe continued, “The Knights of Harmony have been based in Chesham for many years now – indeed the club's official title is The Chess Valley Barbershop Singers. We'd like a greater representation of the citizens from Chesham and district. You don’t even need to be able to read music – all you have to do is turn up.” (See also Knights Support St Francis)

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.

A Bit of Money Towards Study Costs

Parents and students are reminded that applications can still be made for grants as the next meeting of the Educational Charities trustees will be held in January. There are four Educational Charities in Chesham and their objects are essentially the same, although the funds are no longer as big as they were in the days they were set up. The charities are: Rachel Johnson’s Eleemosynary, the W J Standring Trust, the Chesham Students and Apprentices Fund, and the Prior’s Charity. They are to encourage the young people of Chesham into higher education (including apprenticeships, the study of music and other arts) by providing financial assistance for outfits, tools, instruments or books. The amount that can be awarded is small and will vary with what is available and the number of applications. The Trustees will tell the applicants whether they are eligible but speaking generally, those who have been at one of the schools in the ‘Old Parish’ of Chesham for two years qualify. Peter Ward said, “We ask students that, as soon as they have their placements, they keep receipts for books or tools”. Email Peter Ward on ward.peter2@googlemail.com, or apply to him at 59 Darvell Drive, Chesham, HP5 2QN.

An Audience with Snow White

On Wednesday 30 December at The Temperance Hall HP5 1HU, Jacqu’in the Box is running a pantomime party from 10.30am – noon. An Audience with Snow White is for children up to seven years of age. Go along and join Jacqui in full costume as Snow White for an hour and a half of singing and dancing in optional fancy dress. There will be gentle games, music, animal puppets, props and instruments, dancing and singing. It costs £7 per child, £12 for two siblings, or £17 for three siblings which includes tea, coffee or juice and biscuits. It will also be on Thursday 31 December at Amersham Free Church HP6 6AJ from 10.30am – noon. Places are limited and must be pre-booked and pre-paid by calling Jacqui on 01296 589335 mobile 07948371615, emal jacquitomlin@aol.com or visit www.jacqinthebox.com.

Winter Cricket Training

Little Marlow Cricket Club is looking for players aged nine and upwards for the 2010 cricket season in the Bucks League. If you can get there, training is on Sunday mornings from 10 - noon at Cressex Community School. It costs £5 per session and all coaching sessions are run by ECB qualified coaches. Bruce Baylor said, “There are young people coming from Slough and Great Kingshill so we are opening up opportunities to those who may not be getting the chance to play regular cricket.” For more details please contact Steve Shore on 07723 445125, or visit www.littlemarlowcricket.webeden.co.uk.

Gigs and Parties at The Drawingroom

The Drawingroom Christmas gig on Saturday 19 December is nearly booked out, Richard Elkington said, “If you’d like to come, call your friends right now, and book on 07973 664551 or 01494 791691”. Music will be by BIM, Jack Garratt and Treana Morris. Tickets cost just £14 or £4 for the under 25 year olds, food is £5 and bring your own booze.
While you are at the Drawingroom at 5a High Street, Francis Yard HP5 1BG, take a look at the work of new young local artists, Dominic Barber and James Addison as well as established artists such as David Wilcox and Tracy Emin.

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.

Interschools Practical challenge

Four schools competed for the Connaught Paradigm Challenge in Chesham, Bucks on Friday 11 December. Teams of eight Year Nine girls and boys from the Misbourne, Chalfont Community College, Beaconsfield School and the hosts Chesham Park Community College, completed four challenges each guided by experts from Connaught. The students were shown tiling and tried plumbing and joinery including the assembly of a flatpack kitchen unit. In quantity surveying, students planned and costed out a housing development, taking on roles such as architect and construction manager. Everyone agreed this was fun, even though it involved maths. The overall winners were Beaconsfield School, and the most outstanding individual was Ben Woodward from Chesham Park. The event was organised by maintenance specialists Connaught and housing association Paradigm Housing working with Bucks Education Business Partnership. Connaught and Paradigm are keen to develop links with schools and will be working with Bucks Education Business Partnership.

Swim for Free at Chesham Leisure Centre in December

Parents are advised that there is free of charge swimming at Chesham Leisure Centre in White Hill. You can have lots of fun in the pool including use of the inflatables. It is on Sunday 13 and Sunday 20 December 2009 from 2 to 3pm and 3.30 to 4.30pm and no need to book. Subject to availability there will be a free water bottle or sports bag for every participant. For more information contact Nexus on 01494 791779 or just turn up. It is held in partnership with Reactivate Bucks Give it a go visit www.reactivatebucks.org. Admissions policy - one adult (person over the age of 18 years) may accompany a maximum of two children under the age of eight years old in and around the pool at all times.

Singing for Sparkle

On Sunday 13 December 2009, the Damon Singers are putting on a concert at 8pm, at the White Hill Centre in aid of Sparkles, a charity dealing with the needs of pre-school children with Downe's Syndrome. The Choir and friends will be performing a variety of Christmas music, old and new; there will be readings, as well as audience participation carols for all who want to help them out. Uli Wright said, “In the interval, we will serve hot mince pies; mulled wine and soft drinks will be on sale at the bar. We are hoping for lots of audience with full wallets and a generous disposition, to give lots of money to our chosen charity”.

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”.

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.”

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.”

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.

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.

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.

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).

Jumble Sale at Chesham High

There will be a Jumble Sale at Chesham High School at 2pm on Saturday 14 November to raise funds for the Chesham High School Pony Club. Breakspear Riding Club will be holding an equine table top sale there at the same time. There will be a cake stall and refreshments are available. The Pony Club was started in March 1972 by the then school keeper Mr Crowe, and Miss Thoday, a chemistry teacher continued to run it for 29 years. In June 2009 Miss Antonia Thoday received an honour in the Queen’s birthday honours list, the Order of the British Empire, Member (MBE) for voluntary service to the pony club. There are about 12 ponies - either owned or on loan, members do not own the horses or ponies. Some club members have not even been, students at Chesham High. Chesham High School is the only state school in the UK tohave its own pony club.

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.

Chiltern Voice Amersham – Henry Wizgier: Friends of Belarusian Children’s Hospice

Local Polish folk-singing group Amershamki serenaded customers at Amersham’s Cafe Africa last Saturday, as part of a fund-raising programme for young victims of the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster in Ukraine. Although it is 23 years since the accident happened, many young victims who were irradiated but managed to grow into adulthood, have passed on serious health problems to their offspring. Some children are severely disabled while others are terminally ill and the country which seems to have inherited the worst of the problem, Belarus, has welcomed much-needed voluntary international help to cope with it. The British-based Friends of Belarusian Children’s Hospice have been involved in raising funds and helping in other ways since 1999. There are now eight establishments run by Belorus Children’s Hospice throughout the country providing palliative care for the children and support for their families. Cafe Africa in Chesham Road, is a not for profit establishment which specialises in serving either local, ethically sourced or fairtrade products and supports all local charities. November has been dedicated to Friends of Belarusian Children’s Hospice which will be the recipient of this month’s profits. There is more Amersham news on this blog's sister site Chiltern Voice - Amersham area http://chilternvoiceamersham.blogspot.com/

Songs On Broadway

Chess Valley Male Voice Choir holds its autumn concert at Broadway Baptist Church at 7.30pm on Saturday 7 November with a variety of popular music to provide a festival of song. They will be joined by guests including the boys of the Beacon school senior choir, the concert group of the Panda Players and the two winners of the Chesham Festival - Charlotte Nohavicka and Rebecca Tossell. The male voice choir is singing a number of its favourites including When the Saints and Bring him home as well as some additions like Sloop John B. There will also be some of the religious music that men’s choirs can sing so well and the required Welsh hymn tune Llanfair. Rebecca Tossell who is 13 and at Chesham High School, sings three pieces, and Charlotte Nohavicka who attends Wycombe High School adds more variety. John Poston said, “We can promise a true festival of song. There are plenty of good seats in the church and tickets can be obtained at £10 (£8 concessions) from Les Brum, call 01494 782249.”

Meet Bob Cratchit

Chesham Theatre Company is taking bookings for its production of A Christmas Carol at The Elgiva from Wednesday 11 – Saturday 14 November. This new adaptation of Charles Dickens’ best-loved Christmas story, created in 2003 for the Derby Playhouse, is faithful to the author, with much of the dialogue taken directly from the novel. Peter Shaw is Scrooge whose journey from miserliness to generosity is suitable for all ages, and is accompanied throughout by carols sung by members of the Chrysalis Community Choir. You can see Scrooge, Bob Cratchit and family, together with the rest of the Dickensian favourites, each evening at 7.30pm and on Saturday also at 2.30pm. Tickets cost £12 and £10 (children and concessions) from The Elgiva Box Office call 01494 582900 or visit http://www.elgiva.com/.

Fireworks for Chesham Display Thursday 5 November

The annual Fireworks Display at Chesham United will be held on Guy Fawkes Night itself this year, Thursday 5 November. Gates open from 6pm, the bar will be open for drinks on the night with access from inside the ground only. There will also be food and drinks available inside the ground. Prices are £5 adults, £3 children. It is a great family evening with plenty of parking.

Sportszone half term offers

Have you organised your October Half Term? On Monday 26 October from 10am – noon there will be a Sportszone session at the Moor in Waterside, Chesham and the i-van will also be available. On Thursday 29 October from 10am – noon Sportszone will be at Holmer Green Common, and from 1pm – 3pm at King George V Fields, Amersham. All Sportszone sessions are for children aged eight -12 years only. The sports sessions are unstructured and the children will get the opportunity to choose from a variety of sports and equipment that they would like to have a go at or play with. Participating children must have a signed and dated parental consent form which needs to be handed to any of the sports leaders on the day. They can be found on www.chiltern.gov.uk/sportszone or can be completed on the day of the session.Call Stacey Ellingham 01494 732177 for more information.

In with the Sea Cadets

On Sunday 18 October, there will be an annual parade by the Sea Cadets for Trafalgar Day. Our MP Cheryl Gillan will attend, as will Chesham Town Mayor Cllr Justine Fulford. Cadets will parade from Albany Place car park (which will be closed until approximately 2pm) down the town centre to St Mary’s church where a service will be held. Afterwards cadets and guests will have refreshments in the Chiltern Unit and the Youth Centre at Bellingdon Road, Chesham HP5 2HA. If you are aged from 10 to 18 and want to find out more about adventure afloat, fun ashore and making friends while gaining all sorts of new skills, visit http://units.ms-sc.org/chiltern/Default. Commanding officer, Chief Petty Officer (SCC) Keith Jones said, “We are also on the lookout for any adults who have a few hours to spare and would like to come along and help out. No previous experience is necessary - just time and enthusiasm.” Contact Keith or Vicki Jones on 01494 783244.

In Bloom gets a constitution

Chesham in Bloom holds its first ever AGM on Thursday 22 October at 7.30pm at the Town Hall. Chesham In Bloom is a town-wide initiative to improve the way it looks and how people feel about it. You can read more about the work they have been doing and the successes. They will be adopting a constitution and electing office bearers. The annual meeting is open to any interested members of the public, so please tell any friends who you think may like to attend. Refreshments will be available and it will be a good opportunity for like-minded people to meet and discuss ways in which we can make a difference to the town. Rachel Watts, Chesham in Bloom Chairman said, “I would be grateful if you could let our secretary Kathryn Graves know whether you would be interested in becoming a committee member. Even if you feel unable to join Chesham in Bloom, the team would be delighted to see you at the AGM.” Call Kathryn on 01494 583798, email policy@chesham.gov.uk."

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.

I came to Chesham

A Coming to Chesham exhibition will be on at the Chesham Town Hall on Saturday 10 October from 9am – 4pm and on Monday 12 October from 9am – noon. It is a collaborative community project led by Chesham High School. There will be an art competition on identity from surrounding junior schools, interactive displays of memory boxes, story telling and films of World War 2 Asian and Polish Communities. The Museum will have a Coming to Chesham display featuring artefacts and photographs relating to Chesham as a refuge in wartime. The official opening for invited guests only will be on Friday. Dr Siobhan Bygate, Community Coordinator Humanities at Chesham High School said, “The Coming to Chesham Exhibition is based on the WW2 interviews and Ethnic History interviews carried out last year. It also at highlighting the housing of this film for use by the public in Chesham Museum. Although led by Chesham High School, it has involved close collaboration between a number of partners including: CHS, Chesham Park Community College, Thames Valley Police, Chiltern District Council, Chesham Asian Welfare Society, Polish Ex-Combatants Society, COPAG, an Art competition on identity for all Chesham Junior and Infant Schools to be judged by CHS and CPCC, Chiltern Racial Equality Council, Churches Together for Chesham, South Bucks Jewish Community, Chesham Mosque, Chesham Museum and many more. It includes a Social History Room: excerpts from the film running in a ten minute loop for all to get a taster of what is going into the Museum, memory boxes from the different communities, art work, storytelling in different languages and stories from WW2 as well as a Faith Room with displays from the Christian, Muslim and Jewish communities. The exhibits were prepared by the different community groups in liaison with CHS and CPCC pupils over two workshops held at Chesham High School in September.”

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).

Kick about

Street Football every Thursday from 7pm - 8.30pm at Chesham Leisure Centre tennis courts, up White Hill. It starts on Thursday 1 October and is free for 13 – 19 year olds. Call 01494 732177 or text 07970 215077 for more details.

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.”

Green Blue Peter Badge

Elmtree School is applying for Eco Schools status. The government wants all schools to be sustainable by 2020 because energy costs are rising and schools are facing other budgetary restraints. Pupil George Blackmore wrote a poem at assembly with the school, based on the word recycle. It is now the school's Eco Code. Proud mum Michele Blackmore, Eco Schools Co-ordinator said, “We have conducted an environmental review looking at our school in relation to: litter, waste, water, energy, school grounds, biodiversity, transport and healthy living. Elmtree has already achieved Healthy Schools status. In the Spring George sent the Eco Code to Blue Peter and was thrilled to receive a special green Blue Peter badge.

Guides plan senior citizens' party

Guides, Brownies and Rainbows are celebrating the Girlguiding centenary on Saturday 21 November. There will be a tea and entertainment with a difference at this once in a century party at Hivings Free Church in Upper Belmont Road/corner of Great Hivings. The Guides put on a party annually for older people of the area formerly known as Pond Park and this year they want their guests to share in their centenary celebrations. If you know someone over 60 who you think would like to attend the annual Guides' party and would like to be invited, please get in touch with the Guide leader, Jane Paterson, on 01494 772983 email janefpaterson@aol.com. Jane tells me that guiding thrives in Chesham but they are always looking for volunteer helpers to work with the young people. Please call her to find out more.

Rock the Rafters

Chesham Youth Centre presents Rock the Rafters for under 18 year olds. You can hear Monte Carlo, Chasing Sunsets, TR8R, If Looks Could Kill, Grindhouse and Just Me Again. It is on Saturday 26 September at Chesham Youth Centre in Bellingdon Road (behind the Elgiva) HP5 2HA. Doors open 6pm, entry costs £4 with flier or £5 without. Strictly no alcohol (you will be searched). Call 01494 794872.

Silver surfers

The BBC dropped in to film the innovative silver surfer project - we reported. Residents at Paradigm Housing’s sheltered accommodation Cromwell House, have been trained to use two computers in their lounge by specialist company Digital Unite. What makes the project special is the students from Chesham High School who visit regularly to give IT support. The BBC’s short film will be shown at the Online Access Forum on Friday 16 October and it may also appear on Blue Peter or other programmes. The Online Access Forum will be held at the BBC in London, and Government ministers, broadcasters and key stakeholders will discuss ways to encourage the 14 million people who aren’t already online to get onto the internet. Two Cromwell House surfers were interviewed - Joan Metcalf and Marion Hearn, while Chesham High students Kevin Hill and Holly Smith were working with them. Marion sent emails to friends in Australia and Kevin helped Joan talked to design posters. Kevin said: “I wanted to change the stereotypes. We’re not all yobs and older people can use computers.”

CYC AGM

Chesham Youth Council held its annual general meeting on Wednesday 16 September and elected new office bearers. Tom Pirouet stood down as chair but will assist as secretary while Joanna Osborne is in training. The new chairman is David Pirouet, vice-chair Taisha Egan and the treasurer is Abi Readway-Beech. There are 16 members of the youth Council and they have a website at http://www.cheshamyc.info/. The next meeting will be on Wednesday 21 October at the Town Hall.

Movement indoor or out

MEND fitness sessions (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition, Do-it) are tailored to get children fitter, healthier and happier. Every Tuesday for children aged seven – 13 join Scott at the Chesham Leisure Centre from 5 – 6pm. No need to book, every session costs £2. Parents can use the leisure centre at the same time if they want to as well. Bring a drink of water if you need it and make sure you wear suitable clothes for exercise. If necessary call Georgina O’Dell on 01494 732103.

Play football in an environment focused on building self-esteem, improving health, having fun and making new friends. For young people aged 13 – 19 at Chesham Leisure Centre from 7 – 8.30pm every Thursday starting on Thursday 1 October - note change of date from the one advertised in the Summer holidays brochure. It is free of charge and there is no need to book. Bring a drink of water and make sure you wear appropriate clothing for exercise. For more information call Stacey Ellingham on 01494 732177 or email sellingham@chiltern.gov.uk.

Shed’s open

Shed @ The Park Theatre Company invites young people aged between seven-18 years, their parents, prospective volunteers and local businesses to attend a free open evening on Thursday 10 September. It runs from 6.30 - 9.30pm in and around the Drama Studio of Chesham Park Community College, Chartridge Lane. As well as being able to enjoy a delicious barbeque and hear about all the plans that Shed @ The Park has in store, it will also be a Gift and Craft event selling items such as painted glass, turkish crafts, textile pictures and handcrafted jewellery. Jayne Pyper said, “Come along and hear what Shed @ The Park is all about”. Visit http://www.shedatthepark.co.uk/ or email info@shedatthepark.co.uk

Shed is also holding a charity street collection on Saturday 12 September from 9.30-2.30pm. It will take place along certain points on Sycamore Road (the Main Street) in Amersham and on the forecourt of St Michael’s Church where there will also be a stall with temporary tattoos etc. Jayne Pyper said, “If you are shopping in Amersham on the day please come and see us at our information stall or put that loose change into one of our tins.”

100 years of girl guides

Girlguiding Centenary celebrations start on Saturday 5 September 2009. There will be launch parties across the UK and Bucks is holding one giant party to which all members are invited (Rainbows, Brownies, Guides, Senior Section, leaders and Trefoil Guild). Over 150 from Chesham will travel by coach to their Launch Party at Wing. Guiding has always been about instilling girls with useful skills, confidence and a sense of adventure. The girl-only space allows members to speak out, have fun and enjoy activities that build self-confidence in a safe, friendly and relaxed atmosphere. In September 1909 several groups of girls turned up at a Boy Scout rally in Crystal Palace, London. They asked Robert Baden-Powell for something for the girls, to which he replied "I’ll think about it". Less than a year later the Girl Guide movement was formed, with his sister Agnes Baden-Powell at the helm. So it was a few feisty girls in 1909 who lead to the establishment of the world’s largest organisation for girls and young women, a movement that was to transcend the barriers of background, race, nationality and faith. Jane Paterson, Chesham North District Commissioner said, “Guiding thrives in Chesham but for this to continue, we need more volunteers. Perhaps you have happy memories of your time as a Rainbow, Brownie or Guide - almost half of all women in the UK have been involved in guiding at some stage. Would you like to be involved again? Or, if you have never been part of the movement, you can experience the rewards from volunteering with young people.” To find out more please contact Jane on 01494 772983 email janefpaterson@aol.com and visit http://www.girlguiding.org.uk/.

The tension has passed - and so have the kids!

Now it’s the turn of the GCSE students to do well. On Thursday 27 August – Kevin Patrick of Chesham Park said, "Our best results ever - phew". Well done to all of you.

A levels results were great last week – and an improvement.

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/.

Chesham’s A-level successes

Excitement was justified at Chesham Park Community College last Thursday 20 August 2009 when the Sixth Form results were collected. The overall A Level pass rate (grades A-E) for Year 13 A level examinations is 92.5%. For the third year in a row the results improved and the average point score per candidate increased by more than 40 points to 556 points. Headteacher Kevin Patrick told me, “The many talented students that the College have worked hard to achieve these grades. All of our students should be congratulated. We are delighted to be celebrating this well earned success with 2009’s Sixth Form students.” Of the 25 Year 13 students, six hope to progress to university or to higher education. There has also been success with the one year BTEC Business course where students have achieved eight Merits and five passes, and improvement on last year’s results. Kevin continued, “The many talented students that we have at the College have worked hard to achieve these grades underlining their commitment, and that of the staff.” Chesham Park Community College prides itself on admitting all students into the Sixth Form who would benefit from further education. The Sixth Form at Chesham Park continues to grow and there are wider opportunities for both traditional A levels and vocational courses, with more than eighteen different courses offered in the Sixth Form. These combined with the Performing Arts courses, including Drama, Music, Dance and Media studies, ensures opportunities for all students whatever their interests and aspirations. The enrolment for students who wish to join the Sixth Form at Chesham Park is from 10am-noon on Friday 28 August, call 01494 782066.

Sorry I’ve not got a report from the Chesham High School on their examination results.

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.

The Chesham Education Charities

If you have been at one of Chesham’s schools for the last two years or more, you may qualify for assistance with outfits, tools, instruments or books to pursue your education. There are four educational charities: Rachel Johnson’s Eleemosynary, the W J Standring Trust, the Chesham Students and Apprentices Fund, and the Prior’s Charity and their objects are similar. They are for the educational benefit of the young people of Chesham but because they were set up ages ago there is very little money: but it could be better than nothing. Peter Ward said, “As soon as students have their placements, keep receipts for books or tools and make an application before the end of October”. Email Peter on ward.peter2@googlemail.com, or apply to Peter Ward at 59 Darvell Drive, Chesham, HP5 2QN. The Trustees will tell applicants whether they are eligible and the next trustee’s meeting will be held in early December.

A free holiday outing

Visit the Royal Air Force Museum, Britain's only national museum dedicated wholly to aviation. It is on the site of the original London Aerodrome, used for the great Hendon Air Shows between the two World Wars. Five huge buildings contain more than a hundred aircraft, artefacts, aviation memorabilia, fine art and photographs covering the history of aviation from early balloon flights to the latest jet fighters. Aircraft are from around the world including some early designs through to the latest modern day jets and military aircraft. With free interactive and fun activities, including 3D Cinema and Our Finest Hour, this London museum offers entertaining and educational days out for all the family, and it is free. RAF Museum London is at Grahame Park Way, NW9 5LL. Call 020 8205 2266, or visit http://www.rafmuseum.org.uk/. There is Family Summer fun until Sunday 30 August, including trails that get the entire family working together exploring flight. Pick up one of the trail booklets at the main entrance and follow the clues with help from the rest of the family. Once you have completed your trail, report to Aeronauts, the Museum's Gallery for children, where you will be given a souvenir certificate for a mission successfully completed. If the weather is fine you can picnic by the helipad, which is used by the RAF regularly, so you may have the added bonus of seeing a large helicopter land. My informant does not recommend the restaurant food.

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.”

Cricket Summer Camps

Baylor International Champions present summer Kwik Cricket Camps for girls and boys aged 10 -13 years old at Wycombe High School. Week one - three have finished but Week four from Monday 24 - Wednesday 26 August is mixed. It costs £25 per day or £60 for all three days. Times are from 10am - 3pm but lunch is not provided. Receive expert coaching tips from an ECB Level Two Qualified Coach, improve your technique and have fun. Please reserve a place, call BIC on 07933812519 email info@bayloric.com, or visit www.bayloric.com.

Ducks in duck alley

The youth club is having its annual duck race on Saturday 29 August 2009. It will starting at the Town Bridge in Germain Street at the entrance to the appropriately named Duck Alley, at 3pm. The ducks cost one pound each and anyone can ‘buy’ from any youth club committee member such as Di Brackley - dibrackley@hotmail.com, 01494 774545; Noel Brown - nbrown@chiltern.gov.uk; 01494 783164 or Jane Bramwell - jbramwel@chiltern.gov.uk, 01494 775239. Ducks float down to the Meads Water Gardens where the race ends. The small yellow plastic ducks are caught by two people who pass on the prizes to the winners. The duck race will be opened by the mayor Cllr Justine Fulford who has already attended a duck race in her mayoral year.

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.

Tinkerbelle for toddlers

Jacqu’ In The Box presents summer holiday party fun during August 2009, suitable for children between the ages of nought to six years accompanied by a parent or carer. An audience with Tinkerbelle will be on Wednesday 19 August at The Temperance Hall from 10am to 11.30am. For a musical story time adventure session, join Jacqui in full character costume as a cheeky fairy for an hour and a half of make-believe antics with singing, dancing, instruments, puppets and games. It costs £9 per child or £15 for two siblings but you must pre-book your place. The price includes refreshments but please bring a packed snack. Email jacquitomlin@aol.com or call 01296 589335, mobile 07948371615.

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.

Youth Club disco

The Youth Club is holding a disco at Chesham Youth Centre, Bellingdon Road on Saturday 8 August. Juniors go from 5.30 till 7.45pm and seniors from 8 - 10pm. The tuck shop will be open and entrance costs £2.

Swimming for kids

Speaking of the swimming pool it is open and there is an inflatable to play on every afternoon during the week from Monday to Friday from 2 – 3pm and on Wednesday it is 2 – 4pm – a treat for the holidays.

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.

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.

Text books and tools

Peter Ward, clerk to the Chesham Education Charities, tells me that they have benefitted from a donation of £300 from Waitrose. The money was the proceeds from the Waitrose Community Matters scheme whereby customers receive a token when they shop. These green disks can be inserted in one of three boxes and the beneficiaries receive a proportion of the Waitrose monthly donation. Peter tells me the charities will benefit because donations are invested in Charity Bonds for the future years of the Trusts, and these are not suffering from the current recession.

Peter Ward said, “One is often asked about the Chesham Education Charities, and how they can help people. There are four: Rachel Johnson’s Eleemosynary, the W J Standring Trust, the Chesham Students and Apprentices Fund, and the Prior’s Charity and their objects are essentially the same. They are for the educational benefit of the young people of Chesham, encouraging them into higher education and providing financial assistance, outfits, tools, instruments or books to assist them to pursue their education (including apprenticeships, the study of music and other arts)." The amount that can be awarded is small and will vary with what is available to the Trustees, and the number of applications. The Trustees will tell the applicants whether they are eligible but speaking generally, those who have been at one of the local schools in the ‘Old Parish’ of Chesham for two years qualify. The next trustee’s meeting will be held in early December. Peter said, “We ask students that, as soon as they have their placements, they keep receipts for books or tools and make their applications before the end of October”. To find out more about these charities email Peter Ward on ward.peter2@googlemail.com, or apply to Peter Ward at 59 Darvell Drive, Chesham, HP5 2QN.

Shelley Road art

You may have noticed a group of young people painting in Pond Park. The Youth Council was asked by Paradigm to help with the Street Art project at Shelley Road gardens footpath on Thursday 30 July 2009. Anyone over the age of 13 is invited to join in from 1 – 4pm, meeting at top of the path in Shelley Road. The path used to be a rubbish tip, overgrown and the concrete wall defaced with graffiti. The project to clean it up is being lead by the Pond Park Community Association and a partnership including Bucks County Council, Chesham Environmental Group, the British Trust and Conservation Volunteers (BTCV) and COPAG (Chesham Over 50s Positive Action Group). The funding comes from the Big Lottery Fund - £10,000, Paradigm Housing - £8,000 and Chiltern District Council - £1,500. The design is by children from Little Spring School who made a three-dimensional model of the path and painted a number of panels showing what they liked and disliked in their community. On Thursday you can go along and see young people transferring the children’s designs to the wall using spray paints. See the Shelley Road art gallery appear, it must be pretty good if it’s costing nearly £20,000.

Chesham United Open Day

Chesham United meets Northwood in a Pre-Season Friendly at 3pm on Saturday 8 August. Gates open at 1pm and you are invited to bring the family for a free day out at Chesham United as the team prepare for the new season. Enjoy the experience of your local football club with: live football, hot food, a huge Mix 107 inflatable castle, fun stalls, live music and a licensed bar. Under 18 year olds can collect a free season ticket on the day.

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.”

Elmtree School’s first Ground Force Day

A keen group of parent volunteers achieved a lot in a short space of time on Saturday 4 July. They installed stepping stones in the Quiet Zone, and built two new vegetable beds in the Growing Zone for winter planting. The Ground Force Day was organised as part of Elmtree’s bid for Eco Schools status, they already have our Bronze Award and hope to gain Silver by October. Emma Choules, Community Liaison Co-ordinator said, “Schools have a special role to play in preparing young people to build a brighter future”. The Government would like every school to be a sustainable school by 2020. Sustainable schools have a caring ethos: care for oneself, for each other and for the environment (near and far). Schools are already caring places, but a sustainable school extends this commitment into new areas. The way school grounds are developed, used and managed can affect pupils’ attitudes and behaviour. Pupils spend as much as a quarter of their time in the school grounds, that’s more than one day a week, so it’s important that their experiences are good. School grounds can be designed and used as a setting for lessons. The volunteers’ work has made positive changes to Elmtree’s school grounds.

Summer Workshops at Wallington House

There are still some places available for workshops for children at Wallington House Community Centre, running from Tuesday 21 July for three weeks. Some of the two hour sessions are free, most others cost £2.50 per child. Karen Puttick said, "We have activities for ages from five up to 17 years, including: three free visits from the iVan for over 12 - 17 year olds. You go and create music, film and all sorts of technological stuff". There will also be craft sessions for five - eight and eight - 11 year olds, line dancing, African drumming, drama, musical theatre (with cast member from the touring Joseph production), jewellery making, nail art and more!. For more information visit www.wallingtonhouse.btik.com, call Karen on 07982 776721 or to enrol in person call in at Wallington House Community Centre, Wallington Road, HP5 2NZ on Friday 10 July from 3-4pm or Monday 13 July 10am – noon and 3-4pm.

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.

Backpackers in Black Horse Ave

Backpackers is a Christian adventure for primary school children, organised and run by ordinary people from all the churches in Chesham. It is a camp without the overnight camping, so that children can have a great time while learning about Jesus and what it means to be a Christian. It is also fun for the helpers and gives a sense of unity. Backpackers traditionally runs for four days during the first week of the school summer holidays ie. in 2009 from Tuesday 21 July - Friday 24 July. This year Backpackers is being held in Waterside – at the school in Black Horse Avenue, Chesham HP5. They will use the school grounds, field behind and some of the premises. Drivers delivering children are asked to park in The Moor car park and walk to the school however I have a correction from Martin Sims to last Thursday’s text. Pedestrian access is via Black Horse Avenue only; there will be no access from either Chessmount Rise or the Children’s Centre, and no parking on site for dropping off or collecting children.
Plans have been underway for ages. Children were invited last May and sufficient volunteers have come forward to cater for 340 young people. A service of praise and celebration will be held on the Backpackers site at 11am on Sunday 26 July 2009. 2009 is the 19th year of Backpackers.