July - August 2004
On the evening of Wednesday 26 May the Youth Club was severely vandalised. Windows were broken, graffiti written on walls, doors and windows and, most serious of all, the roof to the storeroom was smashed to gain entry and steal items belonging to the Playgroup. The police were called and attended the scene but could not touch anything as they suspected that the roof was made from asbestos and dust particles were covering everything inside the storeroom.
The Playgroup and Youth Club were unable to use the premises because of the damage and an expert had to be called to take away samples and analyse sections of the roof to check for asbestos. The Youth Club Management Committee have not yet received the results and so cannot enter the storeroom to clean up the mess and the Scene of Crime Officers cannot complete their enquiries. It is recommended that anyone who touched the roof or entered the storeroom through the roof should consult their doctor and be checked over in case they breathed in any dust particles. It is known that the culprits are teenagers from Chipperfield, and if you suspect that your child was involved it would be wise to arrange for them to see your GP.
On the same evening that the Youth Club was vandalised, the picnic benches at St. Paul's School were uprooted from their chains and thrown into the pond in the wildlife garden.
If anyone has any information about the persons responsible for these acts of vandalism, please contact P.C. Bob Heley at Hemel Hempstead Police Station (01442 271012). Sue Reynolds
on behalf of The Youth Club Committee
CHIPPERFIELD WITHIN LIVING MEMORY
Meals on Wheels.
I recently kept a long overdue appointment with Gladys Taaffe, one of Chipperfield's nonagenarians, to discuss almost half a century of involvement with Meals on Wheels.
Way back in the 1950s, when Hemel Hempstead was developing rapidly as a new town, members of the W.V.S. were asked to help set up a Meals on Wheels Service for people unable to cater for themselves in their own homes. Sammy Bartlett, who lived at Frenches Farm, Tower Hill, was one of the volunteers and she asked Gladys Taaffe to help with the delivery of the meals which were cooked at the Co-op Restaurant, situated at the Kodak end of the Marlowes, in Hemel Hempstead.
Prior to collecting the meals, the W.V.S. stalwarts had to go to the W.V.S. H.Q. in the Old High Street, Hemel Hempstead, to pick up their delivery boxes called 'Hot Locks', which were heated by small charcoal blocks, and constantly needed re-lighting. The meals, in lidded, aluminium containers, usually had too much gravy on them, which spilt into the boxes. After the meals had been delivered to about five areas of Hemel Hempstead New Town, the W.V.S. delivery teams took the tins and boxes to the Salvation Army Hall in the Market Square, washed everything up and then returned the boxes to the W.V.S. H.Q. in the Old High Street.
By 1962-63, when the meals were being delivered in Chipperfield as well, the food was being cooked at St. Paul's Hospital, in Queensway, Hemel Hempstead. A rota of village people collected the food and took it to Barbara Praat's house, 'Highfield', in Langley Road, where the delivery boxes were stored. The delivery teams collected their boxes, distributed them to village people and on the following day returned them to Barbara Praat's, where everything then had to be washed up.
It was Kodak who next took on the responsibility of cooking the meals, at their site on the Hemel Hempstead Industrial Estate. In 1972, Dacorum Borough Council took over the Meals on Wheels Service from the W.V.S. To this day, the meals are still prepared in the Civic Centre kitchen in Hemel Hempstead.
The blue, thermal delivery boxes are kept in Gladys Taaffe's garage. The meals, which are collected at around 11.15 a.m., are delivered daily in Chipperfield, but only twice a week by the eight Chipperfield volunteers. Approximately 22 dinners are delivered on a Friday and more on Wednesdays. Gladys Taaffe and colleague Edith Griffin deliver meals in Chipperfield, Bovingdon, Felden and sometimes Flaunden, covering up to 25 miles. Their delivery round can take up to 2 hours, as some recipients enjoy a brief chat.
The Chipperfield team would welcome additional help, so if you feel able to do so or wish to know more, please contact Gladys Taaffe, Tel. 262923 Mary Nobbs
FILM FUN
Chipperfield Afternoon WI May meeting was going to be what it normally is, a discussion of the Resolutions and a display of members' crafts. But all that changed with a phone call to our Secretary from a film company Flame, asking if it would it be possible to film our WI members listening to a talk on Antiques for Interior Design at our May meeting. A lot of phoning and planning then ensued and, with the committee's approval, the filming was to go ahead.
It was decided we would make it a Group Meeting and we would have our business and resolutions first, then visitors would arrive for the antiques talk at 3pm but as with most filming it was late, and the speaker arrived at 3.30. Cameras in place, we waited with baited breath as the curtains drew back and on the stage stood Marie Vanderbilt to begin her talk. I must say that her appearance caused quite a stir, very tall, blonde hair, 'well endowed', and the most curious voice.
My suspicions grew, as did others, as she continued talking about the slides she was showing - was this a man disguised as a woman? Marie felt our confusion because with the words "There's no fooling you ladies" he removed his wig and some facial make-up to reveal David Dickinson of the TV programme Bargain Hunt fame. After much laughter, and still being relieved of his make-up, he then went on to give a fuller account of the slides. He disappeared to change, only returning after tea to exchange niceties - a charming man. After all this, will we see it on screen? The rumour is Channel 5 in September. Eileen Foulgham
JOHN'S NEW WEBSITE
About ten years ago, as a surprise 'present', a friend set up a website for us (something which we would never have dreamt of doing!). From the many emails we have since received from literally all corners of the globe, it was obvious to us that John's life story has been a source of great encouragement and inspiration to many people world-wide. Several months ago we decided that it was therefore time our website was updated. Having seen the excellent job Russ Evans has done in creating the Chipperfield website, we contacted him to ask him whether he was willing to do it for us. He was not only willing - he volunteered his services entirely free. Knowing the number of hours WE spent in sorting through many piles of articles, cuttings, photos etc., then scanning the selected ones into our computer to send to him, from final result it is obvious to us that Russ too, must have spent a great deal of his time on it. We are delighted with the outcome and from the comments and subsequent emails we have since received, we are not alone.
We would like to publicly thank Russ for his unending patience and expertise. For those who are interested (and it is by no means compulsory!) - the address is www.johnprestwich.btinternet.co.uk Thanks again Russ!
John and Maggie Prestwich
CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU IN KINGS LANGLEY AND BOVINGDON
My computer has stopped working and I only bought it last week.
What are my rights?
My neighbour has just put up a fence that blocks my light.
Can he do this ?
I've heard I might be able to get the new Pension Credit.
Is this true ?
My husband and I are splitting up.
Can he insist on seeing the children?
I've just lost my job, I've got £5,000 of credit card debts and I can't pay them.
What can I do?
I need an old fur coat for a play I'm in. Where can I get one?
These are typical examples of the wide variety of questions the Citizens Advice Bureau might be asked in any one week. You may have something similar that worries you. We can usually answer most questions, and if we can't we will endeavour to find someone who can. This could be one of our own specialists in employment, consumer, benefits or money advice or another source outside the bureau.
Our service is free, impartial, independent and confidential and is open to everyone. We have been operating successfully in Kings Langley and Bovingdon for over 6 months now as part of our Village Links rural outreach project. This has been achieved thanks to special funding from the East of England Development Agency and has enabled us to take the CAB service to the villages of Dacorum. We hold sessions every Friday - from 9 - 11.30 at The Nap Surgery in Kings Langley and from 1.15 - 3.45 in the Memorial Hall in Bovingdon. No appointment will be necessary - just drop in and follow the signs. We hope the residents of Kings Langley, Bovingdon and surrounding villages will continue to support us and we look forward to meeting more of you soon.
We will continue to operate our village telephone advice line for residents who prefer to call us. This is available every Thursday from 10-4 pm on 01442 875142
WILDACRE ART EXHIBITION
The Wildacre Art Group is holding its 12th exhibition on Friday 23, Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 July in Chenies School Hall, near Chorleywood. The exhibition will be open from 10.00am to 6.00pm each day and refreshments will be available.
There will be about 300 pictures on show, in a variety of media. The standard of work is high and the exhibition has proved to be very popular in previous years.
20% from the sale of paintings, together with the money raised from entrance fees and refreshments is divided between the Watford Peace Hospice and Chenies School. Over the past eleven years the art group's exhibitions have raised nearly £11,000 for these two local causes.
NEWS FROM OUR CHURCHES
CHURCH OF OUR LADY
For further information on services and events please contact the office on 01923 269564.
ST PAUL'S AND HOLY CROSS
Children's Groups. Sunday Special: 10am every Sunday (except for monthly Family Worship). Alison Bush (01442 834425) Toddler Praise: 10am in the narthex, first Thursday each month. Sally Thompson (262382) Chipchops: camping weekend - 28/29 August. Details of all activities (listed in the April issue of Chipperfield News) from Simon and Lucy Wood (260249).
BAPTIST CHURCH
It was a lovely sunny day for our May Fair, which was held outside the church on the grass. We raised £585 for our funds and we do thank all those who came and supported us on this special day. At time of writing, work is beginning to replace our hall roof, which has worn out! Our Ladies Fellowship celebrated their anniversary in May, inviting several churches to join them in a special service of thanksgiving.
EGGS & BACON, LIGHT & SALT
Twice a year St Paul's Church holds breakfasts for men at which speakers, who are well qualified in their own professional area, talk about an issue from a Christian perspective. The idea is to discuss how Christian thinking and practice can make an informed and realistic contribution towards understanding and dealing with genuine problems. We have looked at, for example, science and religion, genetics and the internet. These events are not just for church goers but for any who are interested in the topic.
In May the speaker was Denis Osborne, who had been an academic physicist in UK and African universities and from 1987 to 1990 was the High Commissioner in Malawi. He talked on 'Good Governance and Corruption Prevention', a subject on which he runs seminars in all parts of the world.
He told of a police force on the continent where newcomers were told that this branch was 'on the bus'. This meant that they all took bribes and took part in different rackets; at the end of each month the takings were pooled and shared out. The newcomer was free to come on board, but if he did not, then it would be like being left at the bus stop. The interesting jobs and promotion would not come his way. If he was tempted to tell about the activity, this could be like stepping under a moving bus. What does the new recruit do? He inevitably, if unwillingly, joins the crew.
Denis also told of another police situation where corruption was rife but the new mayor was going to impose zero toleration. They were warned that there would be hidden cameras and other detection methods; all cases of corrupt behaviour would be dealt with. Zero tolerance worked. So many said that it was a relief not to have to go on deceiving others and living a lie. This is common experience, the sense of liberation once one can be honest and open about what is happening or has happened, and not have to cover up all the time.
Jesus spoke of 'the light of the world', which we need to open up the darkness and to give direction; also 'the salt of the earth', which is there to prevent things going rotten. It is the sort of relationship God wants us to have with Him and with those around us. It involves forgiveness, which is one of God's specialities.
John King
THE DISABILITY INFORMATION PROJECT (DIP)
Improving access to information for users, carers and professionals
What is DIP? The Disability Information Project is a new resource aimed at providing up-to-date information for anyone who needs it. Funded by Hertfordshire County Council's Adult Care Services, it links partners from the voluntary, statutory and business sectors including the county's main physical disability and sensory loss organisations, the NHS and District and Borough Councils. The DIP is a direct result of the 2001 Best Value Review of Services to People with a Physical or Sensory Disability, which recommended that access to information for users, carers and professionals should be improved.
What does the DIP cover? DIP is involved in the development of the Herts Direct web site to include information specific to disability issues and advice as well as working with the organisations above to ensure that information is available to people when they need it and in the most appropriate format.
As part of the Project, Adult Care Services Day Services are being developed to offer services including equipment displays, advice and assessment, advisory clinics, and outreach services. In time, Day Services will work with the Primary Care Trusts to set up facilities such as multi-purpose rooms for rehabilitation.
How can I contribute? Improving the quality and availability of disability information - and with it the lives of disabled people throughout the county - is at the heart of the DIP. So if you are involved in providing a service to people with a physical or sensory disability, if you know of a group or individual who is involved in one, or if you or someone you know is working on a similar information project, please contact DIP Information Co-Ordinator Averil Robertson on 01727 813807, by fax on 01727 845480, or via e-mail at info@dish4info.co.uk.
VILLAGE MAP
The map of the village commissioned by the Parish Council to mark the millennium has been completed and will be on show for the first time in the Village Hall on Village Day, 3 July. Measuring 3'x 4'6", the map shows all houses, roads, footpaths and fields in the most incredible detail and is illustrated with vignettes of well-known local buildings and features.
Designed by Mike Tagg and illustrated by Joy Weyman-Jones, their painstaking research and drawing makes it a beautiful record of the parish in the year 2000.
Smaller reprints (approx. 16"x 24") will be on sale on Village Day, price £10 (unframed). Printed in full-colour litho, the map will look magnificent framed and who knows, could well become a collector's item.
JOE COX 1916 - 2004
A good innings, well played
Joseph Edward Cox was born on 19 September 1916 in Yorkshire, the fourth of six children. He left school at 14 in the height of the Depression and went to work in the coalmines until at the age of 17 he came south to find alternative work.
His work brought him to Chipperfield where he met Betty Bignell at local dances. They married, settled in Chipperfield and had two sons, Richard and Roger, and two daughters, Susan and May.
In 1941 Joe was called up to join the Royal Navy and he served throughout the war on minesweepers in the North Sea, the English Channel and on convoys to West Africa. At the end of the war Joe returned to his job in Croxley Green.
Joe loved living in Chipperfield and gave much to the village. He was a great sportsman and played for the village team for a number of years. He served on the General Committee of the football club, was match secretary for about 10 years and managed the juniors for a time. He also played cricket for Chipperfield 2nd eleven and was captain for a number of years, as well as serving on the committee and acting as a groundsman. Joe continued to support both the football and cricket teams long after he stopped playing. He was also a member of the Men's Club and served on their committee. A regular worshiper at St. Paul's, Joe served as a sidesman and on the Parochial Church Council.
Joe and Betty moved to Bovingdon to live in a sheltered bungalow. They were very happy living there and enjoyed their little garden, which made a picture.
Their love of dancing brought them together and they continued to dance throughout their married life.
Betty would like to thank everyone who came to Joe's funeral and for the many messages of sympathy and love expressed. Joe loved life and enjoyed it, as he believed that he is now alive with the Lord in glory.
VILLAGE PEOPLE
We are sad to report the death of Roderick Tearle, whose family have had a long association with St. Paul's Church. For many years Roderick and his wife Margaret lived in Alexandra Road until they, and Margaret's widowed mother Nancy West, moved to Kings Langley. For many years Roderick brought his brass ensemble from the Royal Shakespeare Company to play on Sunday evenings during the St. Paul's Flower Festival. Those who attended the concerts will remember him particularly for his talent, charm and humour.
Babs Hounslow writes to say that she has been overwhelmed by beautiful cards, letters and messages during her stay in Hemel Hempstead Hospital for the past five weeks. She would like to thank her neighbours, friends and Chipperfield Care for their marvellous support. Babs is particularly grateful to her wonderful neighbours who have gone to and from the hospital with bags of belongings, washing etc. She is now in a lovely light and spacious room of her own at Gossoms End in Berkhamsted.
Best wishes to Joan Brown who celebrates her 80th birthday on 17 July.
The Hospice of St. Francis has received donations of £397.00 in memory of James Hands. Ethel, Margaret and Peter would like to thank everyone for their support and help at such a difficult time.