Hyde Heath weekly Newsletters - by Sylvia Brown
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sylviesmiles@aol.com

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2007

Dec 20th 2007
Dec 13th 2007
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Newsletters 2008 - here      Pre-2008 - here         2009 - here


December 20th 2007

THIS really is the last News Letter for this year.

CALLING all Pensioners! Chris Herring invites all Hyde Heath Pensioners to lunch in the Minstrels Gallery at The Plough on Monday 7th January 2008. If you would like to join the party, please let me know - 01494 776193 or e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol,com

IS there a Keep Fit instructor looking for a class to instruct? Look no further than Hyde Heath Village Hall on Monday evenings, 7.30 to 8.30pm. There is a group of ladies looking for you, feeling bereft now that Jill Wheeler has folded her mat and opted for a quieter life. If you are interested or know some-one who would be, please contact the hall booking secretary 01494 773988.

HEARTFELT thanks to everyone who helped in so many ways at the Village Christmas Morning last Friday. The stall holders, the cake makers, Margaret and Margaret for dispensing tea and coffee, the washers-up, David Bevan for the music and of course, all of you who came and helped fill those boxes. So how much did we make? The total was £401 which included a hefty contribution from Chris Herring. As you know, the profits have gone into the coffers of the Pepper Foundation, the branch of Iain Rennie Hospice at Home for children with long-term illnesses.

"A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum" - Tickets are already going quickly  for this show in Hyde Heath Village Hall on January 17,18,19. Prices are £7.50 with concessions at £6.50 for each performance. The box office is me, telephone no. and e-mail as above.

HAPPY  CHRISTMAS!  The next News Letter will be available on 4th January 2008

Sylvia Brown           e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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December 13th 2007

RECENTLY I told you of the tragic circumstances of the man found in the woods and asked for your help in tracing his relatives. Then we heard that his brother had been located. I have now been asked to pass on this message from him. He is most grateful and deeply moved by the response from the villagers. So many of you came forward with information about the family, it was a great comfort for him to know that his brother, although a recluse, had not been abandoned by the community here. When the funeral takes place, he hopes to be able to thank you personally.

RECYCLING bins outside Hyde Heath Infant School. Unfortunately they are to be removedin the near future. The Headmistress and school governors have been advised by the local authority that situated as they are, in close proximity to the wooden garage wall and to the school itself, the bins present a risk to health and safety. The headmistress and governors regret the inconvenience this will cause to villagers but obviously the safety of the pupils and the school buildings is paramount.

HAS anyone a suggestion for the re-positioning of these bins ?

CAROLS in the village hall will take place as usual on Christmas Eve at 4.30pm. This year the collection will go Macmillan Cancer Support.

ON Sunday, l6th in Little Missenden Parish Church, there will be a candle-lit service of nine lessons and carols at 6pm, followed by mulled wine and mince pies.

ST.ANDREWS, Hyde Heath. On 23rd there will be morning service at 9.15am and at 4pm, Family Carols of the Nativity.
Christmas Day at 9.15am Holy Communion will be celebrated at morning service.

IT will soon be January again when Hyde Heath Drama Group take the stage for the hilarious comedy musical, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum. Tickets are now on sale from me and in January available from the Village Shop. Prices are unchanged at £7.50 with concessions at £6.50. Performances are in the village hall at 8pm on 17th, 18th, 19th January. This show is not suitable for young children, so there will not be a matinee. Interval refreshments are courtesy of the group - a thank you to our loyal patrons.

THIS will be the last letter until January but don't forget that you can still catch up with all local events on the website- www.HydeHeath.com .

UNTIL the next time, may I wish you all a Happy Christmas with all good wishes for the coming year and thank you for supporting the News Letter.          

Sylvia Brown           e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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December 6th 2007

WHAT more can one say about last week's re-dedication of St.Andrews church and the wonderful Christmas Fair, except that it was a perfect occasion. Even the monsoon didn't keep the villagers away. we're made of sterner stuff than to let a drop of rain spoil our evening. It was estimated that 200 people attended the service and the collection, in aid of Bangladeshi flood relief, realised £800. Congratulations to Fr. John Simpson and everyone who made this such a memorable event.

COME and join in the Hyde Heath Village Christmas Morning on December 14. From 9.30am to 12.30pm there will be coffee/tea, cakes and mince pies to eat, more to buy and take home. A Christmas gift tombola, a fantastic bring and buy table with quality items. Phoenix cards, stationery and wrapping paper. Can you guess the name of a large mouse? and of course, the Raffle. But I need your help. Small gifts, wrapped if possible, for the tombola. Can you bring them to me by next Wednesday? So far I have just one raffle prize, please help.

HAVING a party? Then you need music to make things go with a swing and who better to provide this than the Manhattan Roof Orchestra. You can have a simple keyboard trio or a seven-piece ensemble to suit your function. They offer Dinner Jazz, Swing, Blues and Boogie, the choice is yours. And who is the leader of the band? None other than our own Bob Thompson. You may be too late to book him for your Christmas/New Year events but give him a call on 01494 772143 or e-mail MRooforch@aol.com.

NOW get your taste buds in full working order for a Wine Tasting on December 12 at 8pm in the village hall. This is promoted by the management and staff of Hyde Heath Village Shop to launch a new range of French wine obtained from a local importer. Please advise the staff at the shop if you wish to attend.

DID you know that you can order your turkey from the village shop? Fresh bronze or white birds, locally produced with weights in the range 12 to 14 lbs. When ordering, indicate the weight required and you will be quoted a price. Order now to guarantee your choice of bird.

So, we've dealt with the turkey, then there is a whole range of mouth-watering cakes available. Ask for an order form to make sure of your Christmas treat. Down to basics. Bread. Please order your bread and rolls as soon as possible. The shop management cannot guarantee meeting demand, even from regular customers without a firm order. Do it now, then you can settle back with a glass or two of Hyde Heath Ale. Cheers!

Sylvia Brown           e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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November 29th 2007

ST. ANDREWS DAY. After the re-dedication of the refurbished church by the Bishop of Oxford, the Rt.Revd. John Pritchard, it is hoped that all villagers and visitors will join in the festivities of the "Olde English Christmas Fayre." I am told that the marquees will have under-floor heating, so whatever the weather we will be warm and dry. The Fayre goes on until 10pm and then again on Saturday from 3 to 7pm. I hope you have bought one of the attractive programmes. You have? - then look on the back page and you will see that on Friday evening, you have the chance to win one of the splendid prizes, generously donated.

ON Sunday there will be no 8am nor 10.30am services at Little Missenden church. Worshippers are invited to join the congregation at Hyde Heath for the first communion to be celebrated there following the re-dedication. The Advent Carol Service by candlelight will be held at St. John the Baptist church, Little Missenden at 6pm.

AND this is not all for this weekend. On Saturday afternoon from 1.30 to 3.30pm, the Parents Association of Hyde Heath Infants School is holding its annual Christmas Fair in the school hall. Probably you have given something for the tombola or for the secret shopping but there will be lots more to tempt the coins out of your pockets. It is always a jolly affair which helps to swell the coffers of the association.

THE school does need help other financial. There is a vacancy for a part-time teaching assistant. The hours are five days a week, each morning and one afternoon. Salary is in accordance with government regulations. Qualifications? Enjoying working with young children. The successful applicant would, as the title suggests, assist the classroom teacher and help supervise the lunch-time break. Do you think you fit the bill? Then call or ring the school now as the final date for applications is December 4. Telephone 01494 783835.

OLD Time Music Hall raised the rafters of the village hall last weekend. It was a splendid show, many of the audience thought it the best yet. It was certainly the best I have seen. The costumes were lovely, the chorus so vibrant and the pace, breath-taking. It was good to see Brian Barnett back on stage amongst all our regular favourites. Good as they all were, they couldn' t have done it without the orchestra of the indefatigable Elaine Brown. What hours and hours of rehearsal must have gone into this production and all the profits are shared between village groups, the school,the pre-school, the scout group (cubs and beavers) and the village hall. A big Thank You and congratulations to Barbara and Terry Cann, the moving spirits behind it all.

IT will be a full weekend and to quote Tiny Tim "God Bless Us All."  
 

 
Sylvia Brown           e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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November 22nd 2007

I REFER to last week's item concerning the sad account of the unidentified man found dead. I have now been asked to pass on a message of thanks from the coroner for the helpful response from villagers which greatly aided the identification. I understand that a close relative has been located.

EGYPT. What thoughts of mystery and romance are conjured up by the very name.
Chris Herring tried but couldn't produce the golden mask of a pharaoh so he is doing what he does best - putting on Egyptian Night at The Plough next Wednesday. The mouth-watering menu is displayed in the Village Shop (and on this web-site - see link on main page). There is a selection of starters, then a choice four main courses with a sweet to finish. The price of £16 a head includes wine. Forget whatever is on T.V. that evening, the place to be is The Plough at Hyde Heath, 7.30 for 8pm.

NOVEMBER is going out in style. Friday 30th is St. Andrew's Day and this year, a very special day. At 6pm we will witness the re-dedication of our church on the common by the Rt Revd John Pritchard, the new Bishop of Oxford. As you all know for the past six months the church has undergone an extensive programme of refurbishment. This includes new stained glass windows commemorating our benefactors, Bill and Violet Williamson and Frances Clark without whose great generosity, none of this would have been possible.

A MOMENT of quiet reflection and then at 7pm, the common will erupt into life with an "Olde English Christmas Fayre." There will be Marquees, stalls of craft goods, a tombola, hot chestnuts, a hog roast, mulled wine and a Carousel. Rain or shine, come to the Fair !

I DON'T often mention the Chiltern Society, mainly because Hyde Heath and District seldom comes into its remit. However, I hear from my contact in Chesham, none other than the Mayor, Merrin Molesworth, that the Society is pushing the local authorities to ensure greater road safety for walkers. We do have a lot of walking groups here and their outings would be more enjoyable with adequate, well-maintained grass verges and with better help in crossing busy roads.

I KNOW we haven't had Christmas yet but one must plan ahead. On January 17-19,2008, the Hyde Heath Drama Group present "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum," with a cast, if not of thousands, just about the entire membership of the group. The box office is now open, ring 01494 776193 (yes, it's me) to book your seats. Tickets, no increase, are £7.50 with concessions at £6.50. Interval refreshments are courtesy of the group. The director has asked me to point out that this very amusing show is not suitable for young children, so there is no matinee performance. However for adults, a visit to the Village Hall at 7.30 for curtain up 8pm, will chase away those January Blues.   

Sylvia Brown           e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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November 15th 2007

HYDE Heath Infant School Travel Plan. The government is encouraging all schools to have a School Travel Plan. This is a document setting out local issues in connection with getting pupils to and from school safely. To this end, the school has set up a working group, seeking the views ans experiences of school parents and their children and local residents. It has issued a questionnaire available from the shop or the school and asks all concerned villagers to complete this form, returning it to the school by November 30. Foremost in mind is a decent path from the road to the school gate with a pavement at the beginning. Parking in the area of the school is becoming a hazard and a pedestrian crossing would slow down speeding motorists. What ideas do you have?

SATURDAY, December 1, the school is holding its Christmas Fair from 1.0 to 3.30pm. Unfortunately I have no further information apart from guessing that there will be all kinds of temptation to extract coins, large and small from your pockets. Do go along and support our school. You have only to look around to see how wisely the money is spent for the benefit of our young people.

NOW, here's an idea for Christmas. "Annus Horribilis" - Latin for everyday life. This is a small hard-back book extolling the joys of Latin. The local author, Mark Walker was inspired to write this following his experiences teaching Latin to adult classes. It wil be in all good book shops at the end of the month.

SCANNAPPEAL has hit on a novel fund-raising wheeze. A world record of on-line donations. This scheme records the numbers of donors, regardless of the money but the minimum  donation is £2. To make your donation visit: http://www.justgiving.com/geoffmorgan. Geoff, a Scannappeal volunteer has set this up in memory of his late brother.

THE Mayor of Chesham has issued an invitation to all elderly people in Chesham, Amersham and surrounding villages to a Christmas Party on Christmas Day from 11.30am to 3.30pm. No details available at present but I will keep you informed.
  

Sylvia Brown           e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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November 8th 2007

IT's good to be back with you. The unforeseen circumstances of the last two weeks were caused by B.T. cutting me off altogether just because I asked to come back to them! All is well now and I have received a fulsome apology from a charming lady in the complaints department.

WE'VE had the half-term holiday and now it is Countdown to Christmas. If you are still looking for Christmas cards, why not go along to St. Michael's church in Sycamore Road, Amersham? There you will find a selection from 32 different charities. The shop is open inside the church, Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm from November 7 to December 11. There is also a selection of calendars and small gift items. Make it your first stop after parking and before your visit to M.&S.

IT is November and some days when it has been dull and gloomy we feel that winter has really started. Chesham Theatre Company has a remedy for the blues - Fur Coat and No Knickers! This is a comedy by Mike Harding to be staged at The Elgiva on November 14-17 at 8pm, directed by Helen Salisbury. Tickets are £12 with concessions at £9 from the box office 01494 582900.

HYDE Heath Old Time Music Hall Society takes the stage in the village hall at 8pm on November 23 and 24. I'm not sure if there are tickets still available but it might be worth ringing Barbara on 01494 783254 for possible returns.

ONE event we don't need tickets for is the service of re-dedication of St. Andrews church on November 30 at 6pm. The Bishop of Oxford, the Rt.Revd. John Pritchard will officiate and the Revd. John Simpson hopes that as many villagers as possible will come to join in this special service. Afterwards, weather permitting, we will enjoy a Victorian Christmas Fair on the common.

FRIDAY, December 14, the village hall will be the setting of the Hyde Heath Village Christmas Morning, from 9.30am to 12.30pm. There will be coffee/tea and cakes, more cakes to buy and take home. A raffle, of course. Your favourite bring and buy table, a Christmas tombola, Christmas and general greetings cards. This year the profits will go to The Pepper Foundation, the children's branch of the Iain Rennie Hospice at Home charity. Once again I am asking for your help to make this morning a success. We need cakes, biscuits, preserves for the cake stall, small Christmas gift items for the tombola, prizes for the raffle and attractive items for the bring and buy table. The team is counting on you and I know you won't let us down.

Sylvia Brown           e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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October 12th 2007

I AM sorry that last week's news letter was late reaching the shop, the notice board, etc. This was due to circumstances beyond my control.

ARE you a community minded person who is interested in the development of our future citizens? If so, Hyde Heath Infants School would love you to volunteer to join its Governing Body. To find out more please contact Chair of Governors, Susan Rayne either through the school (783835,) the village shop or at home on 783362.

RECENTLY I spoke about the need for house to house collectors for the British Legion Poppy Appeal. I now learn that Hyde Heath is particularly lacking in volunteers. David Cope on 01494 776472 is urgently awaiting a call from you. It is only once a year and a couple of hours to do your own part of the village is all that is asked. Please make that call now.

SPEAKING of volunteers, the shop at Amersham hospital is quite desperate for people to take the shop trolley round the hospital each weekday morning. If you have had the misfortune to be a patient, you will recall how glad you were to hear the cry "Anything from the trolley?" They carry an amazing selection  of goods and bring a breath of the outside world brightening the four walls of the ward. The whole stint takes no more than two hours. Please can you spare that time once a week and cheer just one  person's stay in a hospital bed? For details ring Wendy Golding at 01494 734436.

OLD Time Music Hall. Barbara tells me that there are still some (not many) seats available for Saturday, November 24. Friday 23rd is filling up, so don't delay in ringing her on 01494 783254.

ST ANDREW'S DAY, November 30 is a very special day this year for us in Hyde Heath. Our church on the commom, refurbishment completed, will be re-dedicated by the Bishop of Oxford, the Rt.Revd. John Pritchard. The service will be at 6pm - do note the time. The church will have three beautiful new stained glass windows, each containing a small commemorative plaque to Bill and Vi Williamson and Mrs. Frances Clarke, our generous benefactors who made this project possible. The service will be followed by a Victorian Christmas Fair on the common with local crafts, a hog roast, chestnuts, mulled wine and The Amersham Town Band. I hope the new Christmas cards will be available. There are three attractive designs in packs of 10 with envelopes at £4.99. To order, contact the Parish office on 01494 862008 or e-mail office@lmchurch.org.

Sylvia Brown, tel. 01494 776193,              e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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October 5th 2007

A BIG Thank You to everyone who helped last Friday (Macmillan Coffee morning) and raised the splendid total of £600. Apart from the people who ran the stalls, the wonderful cake-makers, donors of bric-a-brac, books and raffle prizes, my special thanks to that knight in shining armour, Alan Childs. Alan not only put up all the tables on Friday morning, on Sunday he came and carried several large boxes of books from my hall to the garage. It would have taken me many back-breaking journeys to have done it. It was a kind, spontaneous action, typical of the folk of Hyde Heath.

THE director of "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum" is seeking a young man - well, aren't we all? Seriously, she needs this male person to complete the cast for the show to be staged by Hyde Heath Drama Group on January 18,19,20,2008. What are the requirements? Age 17-30 years, obviously able to act, sing a little and generally have all-round skills to perform in this light-hearted production. Are you that young man or do you know someone who fits the bill?  If you are interested, please ring Erica Elson - 01494 784760. Rehearsals are held in Hyde Heath Village Hall on Mondays 8.30-10pm and Fridays 8-10pm. You will be assured of a very warm welcome and three months of jolly rehearsals culminating in being part of a stupendous production.

SATURDAY, October 27 is the date of this year's Endeavour Auction held at the Endeavour Centre, Cameron Road, Chesham. If you have any good quality items to donate, please contact Danny Baker, 01494 776188. Small items of furniture are most acceptable but we regret that we do not have the transport for larger pieces. Chiltern Friends of the Endeavour is a registered charity whose sole purpose is to raise funds to provide extra equipment, outings and entertainment thus helping to improve the lives of the clients at the Centre. Viewing at the auction is from 10am, bidding starts promptly at 12noon. Refreshments are available, bacon or cheese rolls, tea, coffee and cakes.

200 CLUB.  Have you completed the form and sent it with your cheque to Jayne Howlett or handed it in at the Shop? October 28 is the closing date. No applications can be accepted after that date.

QUIZ Night on October 13 is three-quarters sold out. If you haven't already booked your place, do it quickly. The price is a modest £7 for a great evening's entertainment with a scrumptious supper. Ring 01494 775967 and say I sent you!

ADVANCE notice. There will be a Christmas Village Morning on December 14. You all enjoyed last Friday so much I thought we might do it all again. This time proceeds will go to the Pepper Shop in Amersham where I spend so many happy
Saturdays. More details later but please note the date.
 

Sylvia Brown, tel. 01494 776193,              e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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September 27th 2007

FRIDAY 28th is the day for coffee - lots of it means lots of coins filling the collection boxes for Macmillan Cancer Support. I look forward to seeing you all in the Village Hall from 9.30am to 12.30pm, please come and join in the Biggest Coffee Morning in the World.

HYDE Heath caters for all ages with a complete range of activities. The Drama Group includes two octogenarians and right at the other end of the scale we have the Parent and Toddlers' Group. This lively band meets on Wednesday morning from 10am to 11.30am in the Village Hall. It is a friendly "parent" run group offering a variety of activities for pre-school age children. There is a weekly charge of £2 which includes coffee for the mums and juice and biscuits for the children. Everyone is welcome, do go along and enjoy what I imagine must be an hilarious outing.

SOMETHING calmer now for a Sunday afternoon. Priestfield Arboretum at Stony Lane, Little Kingshill has an Open Day on October 14 from 10.30am to 4.30pm. It is the last chance this year to see the fine collection of rare and unusual trees growing in a small woodland setting. Priestfield is privately owned and managed by a small band of dedicated volunteers, nurturing at least a dozen specimen trees known to be globally threatened. Guided tours take place throughout the day and a guide book is available. Sturdy footwear is advised and families are especialy welcome. For further details contect 01494 565269.

POPPIES. Once again collectors are needed for the door-to-door collections for Remembrance Day poppies. Can you help? It is a good idea if you can do it in pairs, particularly when going round in the evening when you are more certain of finding people at home. I haven't got a contact number at the moment but if you are interested, please let me know and I will pass on your name to the organiser.

ARE your little grey cells in full working order? You'll need all your wits about you on October 13. It is the annual and ever popular David Coulton Quiz Night. Tickets are £7 per person which includes a superb supper with pudding. There is a licenced bar and please do not bring your own drinks as this invalidates the licence. We play in tables of eight but don't worry if you cannot make a complete team, singles and couples are welcome and will be fitted in to make up eights. Time 7.30 for 8pm, Venue: Hyde Heath Village Hall.

NOVEMBER is the time for another eagerly awaited annual event in the Hyde Heath calendar. The Old Time Music Hall, this year on 23rd and 24th. As you know it is always a sell-out, so to make sure of your tickets, ring Barbara on 01494 783254 and make a reservation now.


Sylvia Brown, tel. 01494 776193,              e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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September 14th 2007

IT happens year after year, as soon as the schools go back, we have an Indian Summer.

SORRY that there was no News Letter last week, I was enjoying a short break in Bournemouth. I was not allowed to leave Hyde Heath and its problems completely behind. I travelled with Woottons Coaches and the driver also drives one of the school busses. I was boasting that we are the best kept village whereupon he asked very firmly when would the oak tree at the bus stop be cut back?  It overhangs the road so much that coaches are forced to park outside the area of the bus stop causing an obstruction at that time of day. So, whose problem is this, Parish Council, District Council or Highways and Byways ? However he was such an excellent driver, I'm sure our children are safe in his hands.

BELATEDLY, my Birthday greetings to Chris Herring. I have seen the pictures on the website . What a great time everyone had and it was a fine evening, the icing on the cake. It was a splendid occasion to say "thank you" to Chris for all he has done for the village.  

I SEE the shield is in place on the common and on Saturday at 4.0pm Councillor Rodney Howlett will officially receive it from the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire, Mrs. Jenny Hopkirk. It is a great achievement and I noticed that Chris is still working to make everything right for The Day. One of his "young men" has cleared all the overgrown greenery from the path to the shop and by Saturday the fence will have been completely painted.

AFTER all this excitement, it is our turn to host the Church Harvest Supper in the village hall. Tickets are £10 and bring your own drinks. There may be a few tickets left so quickly ring the parish office ar 01494 862008 or Barbara Cann at 783254.

SEPTEMBER 28 is the day to mark in red on your calendar. The Coffee Morning in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. From 9.30am to 12.30pm there will be a constant flow of tea and coffee with cakes and biscuits. More cakes to buy and take home. Delightful treasures to find on the bring and buy table. Quality second hand books, a raffle and soft toy tombola. Stock up with greetings cards, etc. from Phoenix Cards and then a chance to win £5,000 worth of John Lewis vouchers. Altogether the Coffee Morning to end them all. Come and meet friend, old and new, bring the babies, swap photos and news of the families, all the while supporting this wonderful charity. If you cannot come, can you please, make a cake, give something for the raffle or send me a donation. Thank you.  

Sylvia Brown, tel. 01494 776193,              e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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August 30th 2007

The end of August, I can hardly believe it, though at last we've had a taste of real summer weather.

DID you hear Hyde Heath on Three-Counties Radio last Sunday morning ? The recording was made on Friday. Chris Sargeant had received a call from a reporter who, having heard about this remarkable village, wanted to come and see for himself. Chris asked me to go along to the shop and between us we told the story of how the shop was set up and what a great success it is. Of course it would happen to be a slack period but there was Wendy ringing up imaginary purchases and handing out the change. It was all great fun and the reporter was happy with his recording. There's no doubt about it, Hyde Heath is now firmly on the map, thanks to Ray Challinor and everyone who has made our Village Shop the success story of The Chilterns.

It is back to school and the regular activities in the village hall. Here's a reminder -
Monday - 7.30-8.30pm, Keep Fit with the indefatigable Jill Wheeler
Tuesday - 6.00-7.30pm, Cub Scouts with Akela Barbara Cann
              8.15-9.45pm , Line Dancing with Derek Faversham
Wednesday - 10.00-11.30am, Toddlers Group
Thursday - 10.15am - 12.15pm, (2 sessions) Pilatus with Karen Moule (if newcomer
                               check with her first on 01628 522557)
               On second thursday in the month, W.I at 8.00pm
Friday - 9.30-10.30am, Jazzercise

Meanwhile in the school hall, Monday - 6.00-7.30pm Brownies with Brown Owl,
                                                                            Shanta Gillott
                                          Tuesday - 6.15-7.30pm Beaver Scouts with
                                                                             Mr. T. Wye.

September dates to remember: This Wednesday, 5th, AGM of the Drama Group, followed by auditions for "A Funny Thing Happened on the way to the Forum."
Monday, 10th, Pam's Monday Lunch Club in the Chapel at 12.15pm. All are welcome but book first with 01494 786224.
Wednesday 19th, AGM of the Village Hall Management Committee at 8.15pm
Friday 28th - The Big One at 9.30am come and join in the Biggest Coffee Morning in the World in aid of Macmillan Nurses.

As you see we cater for all tastes and ages, it's what makes Hyde Heath the favourite village in The Chilterns.                              


Sylvia Brown, tel. 01494 776193, e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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August 23rd 2007

WANTED - gentlemen to help ladies in distress. Tell me the age of chivalry  is not dead, o brave chevaliers of Hyde Heath !  The fair maidens in question are the WI who run the Amersham Country Market every Friday morning in the hall of Amersham Free Church on Sycamore Corner. They need help to put up the tables and arrange the layout at 7.30am ready for the 8am opening. Then at the close at 11.30am, they need help for the reverse process. The tables are similar to those in our village hall. A small remuneration might be arranged but the big advantage is first choice of the excellent produce on sale. If you can assist these dear ladies at either time, please ring Felicity Beynon  01494 774111.

THE Age Concern  Shopping Bus on Friday afternoons is a great social outing. There are two or three pick up points, always convenient to the passenger's home. The return journey is right to one's own front door. And all for a donation of £2. At present there are four wonderful drivers, Anne Lloyd-Jones, Bill Newman, Ron Flint and Mary Collins. To cover for holidays, illness or emergency, an extra driver is needed - can you be that person? What is entailed? Three hours a month to take a cheerful group of over 60s to Chesham for shopping. Full training on the mini-bus will be provided before you are allowed to go solo. The whole duty would occupy you from 12.30 to 3.30pm  on one Friday in the month. This bus is such a boon, beside shopping, it is a jolly little outing  and a really worthwhile cause. Please say you will help. Bill Newman 01494 774234 is waiting for your call and will gladly answer any questions you may wish to ask.

WE'VE had some awful weather this month but each Friday it has been fine  for the Kick-a-Bout on the common. The reports I have received say that the children have enjoyed themselves but it is a pity that more did not go along. The trouble was that so few people knew about it. The details were not circulated until the first week of August. It was a joint venture  of Chiltern District Council and Paradigm Housing, a great idea but needed more and earlier publicity.

TWO weeks ago, I celebrated 30 years of living in Hyde Heath, soon I will be able to count myself a villager. It is the longest that I have lived anywhere and now I can't imagine living anywhere else. I just hope that now I will be forgiven for inhabiting the house that was built on the site of a brick and flint cottage. We were not the first occupants of the house, never knew of the existence of the cottage but somehow local people felt we were to blame for its demolition. I wonder where that JCB operator is now ?  
   


Sylvia Brown, tel. 01494 776193, e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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August 16th 2007

SORRY there was no news letter last week. I went away for a couple of days, the weather was lovely, we could drink the water and I was having such a good time, I stayed another day.

WHAT did I miss? Well, the first Kickabout on the common. I hope enough children turned up as it was rather short notice for parents. However, it carries on each Friday until the end of the month. If you haven't had the details, all information is on the card displayed on the counter of the village shop.

NOW, I know the weather has not encouraged us to engage in strenuous outdoor activities but does this mean that you have been just a little indulgent in your diet or taking the car instead of walking? Help is at hand! You may have the advice of a personal trainer. Ceefee Dunn is offering free consultations during August. Amongst her range of services she offers nutritional advice, weight management and massage. Give her a ring on 07920 014003.

I WAS thrilled to learn that Hyde Heath was among the top Macmillan Coffee Mornings in the County last year. 28th September is the day we do it all again this year. The hall is booked and paid for by an anonymous donor. Already I have received pledges of help but more are needed. There are cakes and biscuits to go with the coffee/tea and to sell separately. Jams, marmalade and preserves will also be welcome. We need raffle prizes, small objets d'art and other interesting items for the bring and buy stall and this year we are having a second-hand book stall. I hope to persuade Phoenix cards to come with greeting cards, etc. Please say you will help to make this a bumper year for Macmillan Nurses. If you want to know more, please ring me, 01494 776193 or e-mail sylviesmiles@aol.com .

THE Village Hall Management Committee holds its AGM on 19th September at 8.15pm. the members hope that more villagers will come along this year. If you have a point to make, it is important that you are heard. On the other hand, if you just want to say what a splendid job the committee is doing, they would like to hear that too.

IT'S the time of year - the Drama Group is holding its AGM on 5th September in the Village Hall at 8.0pm. This will be followed by auditions for the January production, "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum." This has a largely male cast but the gentle sex will be required for small parts and crowd scenes. Then there is always work for the back stage crew and set building. Whatever your particular attributes, do come along, find out about the play and the group and before you can say "Frankie Howerd" you'll find yourself in a toga and never look back.        

Sylvia Brown, tel. 01494 776193, e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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August 3rd 2007

MY Goodness! What an exciting week we have had. We've won the Cup!

The Cup in question is the Morris Cup, awarded each year for the best kept village in the Chilterns. There are various categories and Hyde Heath came into the class for 501 - 1,500 inhabitants. In past years we have been highly commended or received a certificate of merit but never before have we come top of the class.

HOW did we do it? Well, we like to think that perhaps the "litter-pick" helped. Then the area of the hall and shop is looking smart and cared-for but the prize must go to Chris Herring and The Plough. As you approach the village from either direction, you are immediately aware of the massed flowers decorating the outside, it all looks so welcoming. But this is not all that Chris has done for the village, apart from the lovely meals. It is thanks to him that young men doing "community service" have painted the seats and benches on the common and kept it tidy. Have you noticed that the bus shelter is clean and freshly painted? In fact the whole common has a typically English look. The cricket pavilion on the far side and "the square" marked out, so lovingly tended by Mike Thompson. On a fine Sunday afternoon, with our team playing at home, this is a perfect English village scene.

The presentation will be made on 15th September by the deputy Lord Lieutenant of Buckinghamshire, Mrs. Jennie Hopkirk. Details will be announced later.

IN the village hall, I know many of you have wondered who was Tui Addison? She lived here some years ago and was a great supporter of the village and the hall. It was through her generosity that the original kitchen was installed. Last week, Ray Challinor met an elderly couple in the shop, on their way to Little Missenden Church. It was none other than Heather Tinsley (nee Addison) and her husband. They were visiting the church where they were married sixty years ago. The visit was in the nature of a pilgrimage as they have lived in Yorkshire for many years. Ray was delighted to show them round the hall where they were impressed with the changes that have taken place. It gave Heather great pleasure to see that her mother's plaque is still in place. Ray asked the origin of the unusual name Tui. It comes from New Zealand and is the name of a rare bird found only there.

I HAVE said before that people never really leave Hyde Heath and this week I received an e-mail from Glenys Groome, now living in California. She and her husband lived at Consett, Brays Lane from 1992 to 1996 and she had just found our website. She was amazed to see all the changes that have occurred. They are hoping to visit the family at Christmas and will certainly call in and support the village shop.

SADLY there are some villagers who are unaware of this Newsletter. Please pass the word around. There is no formal charge but I would be grateful if you would put a coin in the Pepper Pot in the shop or in the Scannappeal box in The Plough.

Sylvia Brown, tel. 01494 776193, e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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July 26th 2007

OH Dear! As I write it is still raining and I have a dreadful cold and cough. I have to look at the calendar to make sure that it really is July.

HOWEVER, the good news is that we have a new clutch of graduates in the village. The subjects range from business studies to music, a first class honours there for a mature student. We wish them all every success as they follow their chosen careers.

MORE good news came in the announcement of the engagement of our Brown Owl of Hyde Heath Brownie pack, Shanta Gillott to Darrell Hoar. We send them our best wishes foe their future happiness.

CONGRATULATIONS to Clarice Underwood, only 15 year old she took bronze at the ESAA Sainsbury's Track and Field Championships in Birmingham, running the 100m in 12.28 seconds. This is her first year at intermediate level, watch her progress, you heard it here first! Another sporting success was the victory for the The Lee cricketers in the under 11 Bucks KO cup final. Our own Rhys Gordon was a member of the victorious squad.

MUSIC in the Parish Church. On Friday at 7.30, "A Festival of Britten" which includes a selection of folk songs by Britten, Purcell and Quilter. Then on Saturday, 8th September, "The Autumn Concert." This features the Retallick String Quartet and the programme includes works by Mozart, Borodin and Schubert. Tickets for both concerts are £7 and may be purchased at the door or by ringing the parish office 01494 862008.

DO you ride a horse or a bicyle or like a good interesting walk? You do? Then Satuday 8th September is a must for your diary. Most of Buckinghamshire will be on the move that day, taking part in the sponsored ride or stride in aid of the Historic Churches Trust. Last year Wendover Deanery raised more than any other diocese and Little Missenden contrinbuted £1,000 from our six riders and walkers. We would like more people to join in to increase our contribution. Half the money raised goes to the Trust and the rest to our own parish. It is a most enjoyable day (weather permitting) visiting our lovely old local churches. For more information and a sponsorship form, please telephone Anthony del Tufo 01494 416330. Before you set out, why not read up about it? The Trust has recently published a new book featuring pictures and stories about the churches you will visit on your journey. Copies are available from the parish office or from Anthony del Tufo.

WITH the continuing unseasonal weather, our thoughts are with the farmers, will they be able to bring home the harvest in September? Whatever the weather, Little Missenden Parish will hold its harvest festival supper on 15th September in Hyde Heath Village Memorial Hall. Places are unfortunately limited, so call the parish office or sign the list in the porch at St. John the Baptist. Tickets are £10 for two courses and please bring your own wine.

Sylvia Brown, tel. 01494 776193, e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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July 19th 2007

THE Heineken Cup comes to Hyde Heath Infants School. It was Celebration Day at the school on Wednesday. Along with the Cup we had the Wasps Mascot, Sting and a young representative from Wasps Training Academy. The occasion was the presentation to the school of two National Awards. Headmistress, Mrs. Julie Moulsdale accepted the Basic Skills Quality Mark Award for maintaining high standards in the teaching of literacy and numeracy. The second plaque, the Healthy Schools Award was accepted by Mrs. Phyl Flack. This award confirms that the school is meeting the emotional, educational and health needs of the staff and pupils. In other words, Hyde Heath Infants is a happy school. The children are taught about healthy eating, they enjoy regular outdoor activities and if they have any little problems, these are dealt with sympathetically with the co-operation of the parents. The welfare of each individual child is paramount.

Mrs. Moulsdale paid tribute to the Parents Association which is tireless in its support and imaginative ideas for fund raising. Last Saturday at the Fun and Sports Day, it presented the school with a cheque for £5,000. The target of £15,000 for the bricks has been achieved but it is not too late to add your name, more bricks have been set aside for late comers. A special presentation was made to Debbie Kohl for her work with the association during the past 12 years. She hasn't finished yet as she is the official keeper of the rabbit during school holidays.

THIS week, Mrs. Moulsdale is meeting the senior surveyor of Bucks County Council to plan the start of the building works. She has been overwhelmed at the financial support from many sources for this work. Mike Wingrove, a parent, organised a Golf Day and raised £5,050 which included a contribution from Anglo-Irish Bank plc. Pre-School and Daisy Chain gave a cheque for £1,400 and the Village Shop gave £1,500 with a similar sum to come in September.

WHAT an achievement! Never mind the official recognition, the committment of parents and villagers speaks volumes for the regard and affection in which we hold the school, the staff, the parents association and the governors.

School breaks up on Friday - A Happy Holiday to you all.

FUTURE Event, 27th October. The Great Endeavour Auction. If you have any good saleable items you are willing to donate, collection can be arranged any time now. The Auction is in aid of The Chiltern Friends of the Endeavour - the fund raising arm of the Endeavour Day Care Centre, Chesham. If you can help, please contact Danny Baker 01494 776188. We are sorry that we cannot accommodate large pieces of furniture but small items are most acceptable.
 

Sylvia Brown, tel. 01494 776193, e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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July 12th 2007

THANK you to all my eagle-eyed readers for pointing out that 24th September is not a Friday. I should have said that the Biggest Coffee Morning in the World takes place in Hyde Heath and everywhere on 28th September.

ON Tuesday I was privileged to be in the audience at Great Missenden School for the performance of "The Witches" adapted by David Wood from the story by Roald Dahl. Each year all the pupils of year 6 are involved in a stupendous production. This is the fourth one I have seen and they have all been breath-taking. Imagine coping with a cast of 58 eleven year olds and a backstage crew of 12 and you get some idea of the scope of the undertaking. It says much for the spirit of the school that so many of the parents were involved too. The costumes, scenery and effects were so professional it was difficult to realise that we were watching a school play in the school hall. It would not be fair to single out any one of the cast, they all came together and the effect was magicial. But it all happened because of two people, the directors, Paul Hankey and Anna Bowden to whom I offer highest praise for their achievement and committment. Whoever thinks that teaching is a nine to four job should spend a term at Great Missenden or indeed at any of our local schools.

BACK home at Hyde Heath Infants School, it was Open Evening on Wednesday when the children were able to show their work and their school to their parents. Then on Saturday we have the School and Pre-School Sports and Family Fun Day. We start at 10am with School Sports, followed at 11am with the Pre-School Sports. From 11.30am it is time for Family Picnic and Fun Day. My Goodness! How different from my infant school days when most of the time I was terrified by the forbidding teacher and the Dickensian building.

WEDNESDAY 18th July is a special celebration day for the school. Parents are invited to join staff and pupils in the playground (the hall if wet) at 10am when the school will be presented with the Buckinghamshire Healthy Schools Award  and the Basic Skills Quality Mark Award. The staff have worked hard this year to promote all sports and an active lifestyle for the children. To crown this achievement, representatives from London Wasps Rugby Club will bring that most prestigious trophy, The Heineken Cup  for us all to see. You may recall Wasps were awarded the cup on winning the European Rugby Cup Final at Twickenham in May this year. What a scoop for Hyde Heath and congratulations to the headmistress, Mrs.Julie Moulsdale, her staff and the committed Parents Association on their success.    

EVEN more success to report. Isobelle Piper of Walnut Way, a pupil of Bob Thompson, has passed the examination in Pianoforte with merit. Congratulations and please carry on practising !

Sylvia Brown, tel. 01494 776193, e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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July 7th 2007

WHEN most local thespians are "resting" the Chesham Theatre Company go into overdrive. Putting their
faith in the shades of thespis and their loyal supporters, they are staging an Open Air Summer Festival at The Bury in Chesham. It all started last weekend but you can, with suitable waterproof clothing and a large umbrella, enjoy "The Importance of Being Earnest" this Friday and Saturday at 8pm. Then on Saturday at 3pm, a treat for all the family, "Alice in Wonderland." Tickets are from £6 to £12, available from 01494 783355 and 771002. Seats are not numbered, it is just a case of first come have the best choice.

GOOD news about the "Sponsor a Brick" scheme at Hyde Heath Infants School. The latest total is £3,000. If you haven't already done so, please pick up a leaflet from the Village shop and make your pledge. The Parents Association, the organiser of the scheme, has asked me to express its gratitude to everyone who has supported it. The response has been heart-warming. However, there are still the £50 and £100 bricks available. These may appeal to local business organisations. If you know anyone in this category, please pass the word on or better still, had round a leaflet.

THE management of Hyde Heath Village Shop is not contents to rest on its laurels. Oh, those little temptresses! The latest addition to the mouth-watering goodies on the shelves, is a range of organic jams, preserves, chutneys and pasta sauces, some of which are gluten free. Just reading the labels is enough to
set the taste buds working overtime.

NEXT Wednesday is Curry Night at The Plough. For those of you who have not been before, the menu is a
starter followed by a choice of four curries with accompanying dishes and all for £9. Booking is advisable so
ring 01494 783163. The fourth Wednesday in the month, 25th July, is the night for the international menu.

This month it is the turn of Poland, details of this later. These evenings take place in the delightful Minstrels
Gallery, all part of The Plough Experience. Between The Plough and the Shop, Hyde Heath is fast becoming
the Epicurean Centre of the Chilterns.

TALKING of food, next Monday is Pam's Lunch Club in the Baptist Chapel at 12.30pm. I cannot give you
details of the menu, all I can say is that we will enjoy a lovely home-cooked two-course meal. Everyone is
welcome but please ring 01494 786224 to say you are coming. The cost ? a donation of £2.50 is suggested.

SADLY, in spite of Mike Thompson's best efforts, the weather has defeated our cricketers. This week, the
annual key event, The Plough v. Hyde Heath Cricket Club had to be called off. Should things improve by
Sunday, we are at home to Ballinger Waggoners, with play due to start at 2pm

Sylvia Brown, tel. 01494 776193, e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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June 28th 2007

COME early and stay late! Now there's an invitation. Where is it? I hear you cry as you reach for telephone and wallet. It's That Pepper Effect, an extravaganza of all the best in live music performed by local musicians, rock and big band and with children from Pepper Youth. Backed by state of the art lighting, sparkling sound and an amazing stage set to give you a musical night out to remember. Among the musicians will be Hyde Heath's King of the Keyboard, our own, Dave Bevan. The venue: Centenary Hall, Berkhamsted Collegiate School, Kings Road, Berkhamsted, HP4 3BG. The dates: 14th to 21st July. The time: live music, bar and buffet food from 6.30pm until after the show until 11.30pm. On Sunday, from 4.30 until 9.30pm. To book, ring 01442 877292. Prices range from £15 to £25 with concessions at £7, please note there is a 50p charge per ticket for credit card bookings. The show is sponsored by B.P. Sanders & Co.Ltd and for further details visit the website: www.peppershow.com . All the proceeds will be used by The Pepper Foundation to enable the charity provide much needed funding for the Pepper Nursing Team.

I AM pleased to let you know that contributions to the Pepper Pot in the Village shop last month realised £26.52. As you know this is largely your donations for this Newsletter which I grateful to say will continue to be printed by Savills. This support vindicates my faith in starting the venture last February and all the help and kind comments I have received are greatly appreciated. Tell your friends from further afield that they can read the Newsletter on the Hyde Heath website: www.hydeheath.com

LAST weekend, the Cricket Bonanza was not completely ruined by the weather. The Beer Festival was its usual rumbustious success in the splendid marquee. The next day, in spite of lowering skies, play was possible and the result between the President's and the Captain's Elevens was an honourable draw. Unfortunately on Sunday, the weather  won and the six-a side tournament had to be called off. This Sunday, weather permitting we are hosts to Southwell Ramblers, play due to start at 2.30pm

ADVANCE Notice. On 24th September, Hyde Heath will again take part in The Biggest Coffee Morning in the World. As you know this is in aid of MacMillan Cancer Relief. Will you help me make this our best result ever? I need helpers, lots of cakes and biscuits to have with the coffee or to sell separately. Really good little items for the bring and buy table, raffle prizes and suggestions for simple competitions. If we get enough, we could have a book stall. I know it is three months ahead but please start thinking about it now.

ONCE again, my thanks to the staff, now of Savills, Estate Agents for printing this Newsletter. It has made a world of difference.

P.S.  Chris, I love your little illustrations  

Sylvia Brown, tel. 01494 776193, e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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June 21st 2007

THIS weekend is Hyde Heath Cricket Weekend. Starting on Friday evening with the Beer Festival, sorry sold out. Saturday is President's Day and you are welcome to come along partake of a delicious lunch and tea and watch the cricket. To book, please ring Caroline Capper 01494 784043. Sunday is the six-a-side tournament and there is a BBQ from 10am to 2.30pm. Costs and all details from Caroline.

FOR some of you going to the Henry Allen Nursery School must seem a long time ago. The school is celebrating its 65th birthday with a birthday tea on 7th July from 2 to 4pm. Jamie Shaw, the present head teacher extends a warm welcome to all former pupils. I think he would like an RSVP so that the organisers know how many jellies and chocolate biscuits to provide.

IF you go along to Hyde Heath Infants School, you will see a chart showing the progress of the Sponsor a Brick scheme. It is a bit slow at the moment with lots of empty spaces. The organisers, the Parents Association, hope to provide the opportunity for the supporters of the building project  to see the improved school  premises and be present at the unveiling of the engraved bricks. I will keep you posted of the developments.

THE Murder Mystery Evening was great fun. It is a real village event with the village hall management committee combining with the drama group. This evening was a special occasion as the loop system, the gift of the village shop, had been installed and proved to work perfectly.

SUNDAY, 24th June is the patronal day of St. John the Baptist and parishioners will honour the day by morning service in the parish church and in the afternoon with a garden party in the Manor House, next to the church. Take your own picnic and enjoy the games and entertainment whatever the weather.

THE forecast doesn't look too good for barbeques on Saturday, so why not take a trip to the Ballinger War Memorial Hall and catch the last night of a memorable production of "Educating Rita." I have been told that there seats available at £8. Doors open 7.15, curtain up 8.0pm. You are invited to take your own supper with you to eat before the play opens and finish off during the interval. Do please remember to take crockery, cutlery and glasses with you, only the tablecloth is provided. I was privileged to watch the dress rehearsal and Barry Slade and Marie Newey kept me spell-bound throughout the entire performance. If you don't see any other play this year, do go to this one.       

 Sylvia Brown, tel. 01494 776193, e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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June 14th 2007

LAST week l told you about the extensions and other work that is being done at St. Andrews Church. I omitted to say that these improvements are possible not only through Bill Williamson's legacy  but also by the generous bequest of the late Mrs. Frances Clark. In their lifetimes, they were both devoted to the well-being of Hyde Heath and all villagers. Their memories will always live on by their great generosity and we feel sure that they will have approved at the differences they have made to our lives here, at the village hall and shop, the school and the church .

LET them eat cake? No way! The management of the village shop has changed the supplied of bread. There were difficulties about delivery times with the previous baker and from this week, Darvells of Chesham will supply bread and a selection of cakes and pastries each day. Darvells will also supply GLUTEN-FREE and organic loaves. If you would like this special bread, please let Ruth know (01494 774252) as it will not normally be stocked but she will be happy to order it for you.

OVERGROWN  hedges are becoming a bit of a problem in the village. One in particular has completely covered the footpath, causing everyone to walk into the road at the corner. In Weedon Hill one has narrowed the footpath so that single file is the order of the day. For motorists, the junction at Brays Lane and Weedon Hill is always tricky but now the hedges on either side limit visibility to a dangerous level. A visit to the shop is becoming "a walk on the wild side" ducking under hedges, avoiding dog excreta and discarded remnants of last night's take-away. But it need not be like this if we all did a little bit to keep the village clean and tidy.

WE pay our community charge to Chiltern District Council. Surely this must give us some say in what goes on in Amersham, our nearest shopping centre. Do you recall the time when the only place for a cup of coffee or meal was the little tea-room above the butcher's shop in Sycamore Road? Now there are three other outlets and three restaurants. There are two mobile phone shops, in total seven charity shops and countless shops selling greetings cards but nowhere for ladies to buy even a pair of knickers! When a card shop recently closed, we held our breath, what would take its place? Guess what? A purveyor of quality organic coffees! This is town planning. Do these "planners" actually live in Amersham or even on this planet? The car park was extended to accommodate the hoped-for influx of customers to the new M & S Simply Food store but knicker-less females will still have to go further afield for their basic necessities and will do their other shopping in those other towns.

FINALLY if you are quick, you may still be in time to book seats for Saturday's Murder Mystery Evening. 8.pm in the village hall. Supper is included in the admission charge of £10.  01494 775967 is the number to ring but do it now.

Sylvia Brown, tel. 01494 776193, e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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June 7th 2007

THERE are exciting times ahead for the village but first I must correct remarks I made last week about the extension to the school to provide a third classroom and amenity areas.

A PUBLIC meeting was held at the end of April at which the plans were shown. These are now displayed outside the school. Visitors to the school on Fete Day were able to view the plans. The project was set out by school governor Margaret Dunn in the March/April edition of the parish magazine.

THE finance for the project comes mainly from the legacy of Bill Williamson, there is an amount of state funding and the balance will come from the imaginative scheme of the parents association to sponsor a brick. I am grateful to the headmistress, Mrs. Julie Moulsdale and to school governor, Susan Rayne for explaining all this to me and apologise for the distress I caused to them and to members of the parents association for last weeks comments. If you would like to discuss the matter, any of the school governors would be happy to talk to you. But now, all you have to do is get out your cheque book, fill in that form and take it along to the school.

THE other great regeneration is to our church, St. Andrews on the Common. There was a fully illustrated article about this in the magazine a few months ago. Again it has been made possible by Bill Williamson's generosity. For the time being, services are being held in the school hall. If you would like to know more, I'm sure Fr.John will be happy to talk to you. Call him at the parish office 01494 862008.

THE Tomball Charity is honouring the memory of Thomas Ball's passing four years ago in a positive way. In partnership with the Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Appeal, it is holding a Bone Marrow Clinic. If you are in good health and aged between 18 and 40 years and committeed to saving a life, please go along to Prestwood Junior School, Clare Road, Prestwood on June 21 between 5 and 8pm. Be prepared for a brief counselling session and a blood test. For full details, ring Elaine Ball 01494 890157.

THE Village shop has a new range of biscuits in stock. But these are not just biscuits, they are confections made from the finest ingredients enhanced with morsels of ginger, almonds from the foothills of Greece and spices from the Orient. These are Hyde Heath Village Shop biscuits.

THERE are a few places left for the Murder Mystery Evening on June 16 at 8pm in the Village Hall. £10 will give you a great evenings entertainment plus a superb supper. Ring 01494 775967 but do it now.

Sylvia Brown, tel. 01494 776193, e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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June 1st 2007

HAVING got the bus shelter and the tables and benches smartened up, Chris has turned his attention to the gates. When they were installed, it was never clear who would maintain them. Now Chris has the matter in hand and they will be cleaned, cleared of debris and look as good as new - not that drivers seem to take much notice of the request to drive carefully through the village.

JUNE 13 is Curry Night at The Plough. I've had a peep at the menu and it certainly looks inviting. Start with Balti prawns in a coconut sauce and follow with a choice of four different curies with accompanying dishes all for £9. As this is served in the delightful Minstrels Gallery, it is advisable to book, ring 01494 783163. June 27 has a Japanese menu, but more of that later.

YOU probably have had a leaflet  asking you to sponsor a brick towards the cost of the extension to Hyde Heath Infant School. The parents association is aiming to raise £15,000. A highly commendable endeavour but possibly, like me, you would like to have a little more information and even be shown the plans for this project. We are talking about a considerable amount of money and perhaps there could be a meeting for villagers to be told in more detail about the proposal.

HAVE you booked your seat for the Murder Mystery Evening on June 16 in the village hall? I understand that already half the places have been booked, so get your friends together to make up a table then ring Ruth on 01494 775967.

OH DEAR, it hasn't been a very good start to the cricket season has it? This Sunday, if it stops raining, we travel to Ley Hill as the guests of Ley Hill C.C. We hope that play will start at 2.00pm

I MUST make a small correction to my comments last week about the Annual Meeting of the Village shop. I said that only five members attended but that did not take into account the members of the committee which numbered seven. So in fact there were twelve of us. However, the point that I was trying to make was that the committee want our comments and ideas. When making suggestions for additional items of stock, we must bear in mind the limited space available, shelf life and is there a demand other than from ourselves? I think we all agree Ruth and Wendy do a fantastic job but they are always looking for new ideas and would welcome our thoughts.

Sylvia Brown, tel. 01494 776193, e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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May 24th 2007

HAVE you noticed that the bus shelter has been cleaned and painted? This is thanks to Chris Herring who engaged a young man on "community service" to do this and to paint the benches and tables on the common. Once again, thank you Chris. What a difference he has made to the common. He has brought it to life. Early evenings and at weekends it is a joy to see families using their common, playing with children or simply sitting having a quiet drink.

A BIG Thank You to Hyde Heath Cricket Club which for the fourth time sponsored an outing for, as they put it, "The Golden Oldies." By popular request we went to Bournemouth and what a day we had !  17 of us accompanied by Caroline and John Capper, Pam and Steve Epps and Sandra Telford. It was wall to wall sunshine throughout the day, Bournemouth at its glorious best. The sea sparkled to such an extent some of the party couldn't resist a paddle. Others walked through the gardens for which the town is justly famous while the rest of the group sat and soaked up the sunshine. The whole day, including lunch was the gift of Nick Wells and the cricket club funded largely by the profits of the Beer Festival. So don't feel guilty as you imbibe on 22nd June, it is all in a good cause !

I AM particularly fond of the Brownies ands asked Brown Owl  for news of their latest activities. In reply I received a letter from all 24 of them. They told me of all the things they do at meetings and the places they have visited and most of all how much they enjoy being a Brownie. At present the pack has its total complement but there will be vacancies in the autumn. They will have missed the Brownie camp and the visit to Woburn Safari Park but I'm sure there are many more exciting events from October onwards. To find out more, call Shanta Gillott 01494 722674 or e-mail shantagillott@hotmail.com 

HYDE Heath Village Shop held its A.G.M. this week. Out of 115 members only 5 attended - a disappointment for the committee. We must not get complacent about the shop. It continues to do well, thanks to careful husbandry of the stock and accounts. However  the committee would like to hear our comments and suggestions. If you are not already a member, a share certificate costs a modest £10 and you have a vote at any meetings. Contact the chairman, Ray Challinor 01494 776200  for full information.

THIS year so far has seen a positive orgy of theatrical productions and before the summer "resting" period, there is one more that I must bring to your attention. You must cross the border, yea, even unto the realms of Ballinger, where on June 21,22,23, in the Ballinger War Memorial Hall, two local thespians will perform Will Russell's masterpiece "Educating Rita". All details and booking from 01494 837321. Don't miss it.

Sylvia Brown, tel. 01494 776193, e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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May 17th 2007

WHAT a hardy lot we are! The torrential rain couldn't keep us away from the fete. Of course it was disappointing that the bouncy castle and slide could not be used, it would have been too dangerous in the wet conditions. But the Spitfire flew over us, the beautiful cars lined up, dogs brought their owners and the stall holders displayed their various wares. After all the expenses have been paid, the total net profit is about £3,000. Once again, congratulations to David Coulton, the master-mind behind another fantastic day.

THE Jarvis Family. From Chris's website and the newsletter, trace of descendants has been made. Thanks to one villager who got clicking away on the internet, we now know that Alfred did marry, twice and had four sons. Our clever lady researcher is now in contact with the enquirer who lives in Oxford.

GET out your walking boots as Saturday is for Beating the Bounds. We muster at 9.0am at Little Missenden Church. The complete walk, at a leisurely pace takes about 8 hours, including breaks. However you can take just one section, say around Hyde Heath or Little Kingshill. For full information call the Parish Office 01494 862008.

WALKING is the name of the game as next week is Walk to School Week. Please do take especial care in the mornings and mid-afternoon as more children than usual will be walking around the village and we know that small children can do sudden, unexpected things. The roll at the school is now 55 young pupils from 5 to 7 years. The staff and we, as enthusiastic villagers can be proud of this achievement. It is another reason why people want to come and live here. The headmistress and staff are grateful for all the support they receive from us, in particular the recent donations of Tesco and Sainsbury vouchers and the on-going Nestle box top coupons.

NEXT Wednesday, 23rd, is South African evening in The Plough. I have seen the menu and the dishes are mouth-watering. Book your table now you won't want to miss this one, ring 01494 783163.

MURDER Mystery Evening on 16th June. As you know, this is a joint venture between the Village Hall Committee and the Drama Group. Members of the hall committee arrange the evening and provide the splendid supper, the drama group provide the action. Please book through Ruth Coulton 01494 775967. Tickets @ £10 include the supper and there will be a licenced bar. The previous evenings have been complete sell-outs, so you should book your seat now. In case you have not been before, the playlet is a who-dun-it ? Each table works as a team to decide who the murderer is . They can ask questions of the cast who must answer truthfully, except the guilty one who may lie. The winning team is the one who not only guess the identity of the murderer but how and why he/she did it.

NO cricket news but if it stops raining on Sunday we are the guests of Great Missenden C.C. play starting at 2.0pm   
 

Sylvia Brown, tel. 01494 776193, e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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May 10th 2007

WELCOME to the Hyde Heath Summer Fete.

WE are delighted to welcome old friends who visit us every year at this time. To you and all villagers, we hope you have a wonderful afternoon and maybe win a prize or two.

WENDY Axe and JENNY Shaw will man the village shop for the whole afternoon. I am told that extra stocks of ice-cream and soft drinks have been laid in. The Plough will be dressed overall and Chris will make sure that everyone enjoys that special holiday mood.

CAN you spare a little time in village research ? As you know our village website reaches far and wide and Chris Sargeant has had a request for help in tracing possible relatives.

THE Red Cow public house was run by George and Eliza JARVIS in 1871. They had a son Alfred. Now does this ring any bells with present day villagers ? Did Alfred marry and have children? Are there any Jarvises living in this area now? Chris's correspondent is a rather distant relative of George and Eliza and wonders if he has relations here. If you can help, please contact Chris@HydeHeath.com 

THE Village Hall Committee and Hyde Heath Drama Group are combining to give you another Murder Mystery Evening on 16th June in the Village Memorial Hall at 8.0pm. Tickets are £10 which includes a splendid supper. There will be a licenced bar. There was some discussion about the date as last year some patrons found the hall uncomfortably hot.  However, with the new windows, ventilation is better controlled and unless overcome with the excitement of the play, the audience should not suffer any discomfort.

THE SOUL AGENTS will be back for the dance organised by the parents association of Hyde Heath Infants School on 9th June. This is always a complete sell-out so don't delay in booking your place, where else but on the village hall dance floor. Tickets are £12.50 which includes supper, available from Caroline Arnold 01494 775091.

I have been asked to pass on this rather sad information. "Dragonflies" is a monthly bereavement group for parents who have lost a child. The next meeting is on Monday, 21st May, 7.30 to 9.30pm. All bereaved parents are welcome to come along for a friendly supportive evening at Holy Trinity Church Cottage, Wycombe Road, Prestwood. For more details contact Elaine Ball 01494 890157.

Sylvia Brown, tel. 01494 776193, e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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May 4th 2007

MAY already! What happened to April? This is such a busy month and with two bank holidays, how can we fit in everything? Well, read carefully, get out your diaries and see how you can work things.

NEXT Thursday, May 10 is the Annual Assembly of the Parish Council. If you are on the electoral roll for the parish of Little Missenden, you are invited to attend. The meeting starts at 7.30pm in the Rosetti Hall, Holmer Green. You may also attend the parish council planning committee meeting at 6.30pm but you may not vote for decisions made. I will just remind you that the parish of Little Missenden comprises Hyde Heath, Little Kingshill, Little Missenden and Holmer Green. Hyde Heath has two parish councillors, Rodney Howlett and Eunice Narcissi.

SATURDAY,May 12 there is something going on on the common, that is if David gets enough helpers to set up our wonderful summer fete. It is always a fantastic day, each year better than the last. All you need are comfortable shoes, a hat if the weather stays like this and a pocket of small change.

IN the evening there is a Race Night at The Village Hall Pub at Chalfont St. Peter. This is organised by the Parents Association of Hyde Heath School. Admission is £5 for the race card. Supper may be purchased from the special menu offered by the landlord, Mark Hall. The are wonderful prizes to be won at the final race. Tickets are still available from Hyde Heath Village Shop. For all details ring 01494 774182

THURSDAY, May 17 a visit from the Pampered Chef at 7.45pm in the Village Hall. Pam Ruff (01494 786053) tells me that she has a few tickets left at £3. A small sum to pay for what I know will be an entertaining and possibly an instructive evening, with all profits going to the Hospice of St. Francis. Don't forget the bring and buy table for cookery books. A chance to find that old recipe of your mother's that you can never quite remember. I know a new young housewife who was desperate to find the recipe for Yorkshire Pudding. The new books just don't cover the good old basics for a happy dining table.

UNFORTUNATELY I cannot be there. I will be on stage at the Ballinger War Memorial Hall taking parts in a revue "Lollipops and Allsorts" present by the Ballinger Players. You can come and see the show on 17,18,19th, doors open 7.15pm, curtain up 8.0pm. You are invited to bring your supper with you, that way even if you don't enjoy the show, you know the food will be good. Tickets are £8.0, to book please ring 01494 489833. Do come for an evening of cheerful lightheartedness.

Sylvia Brown, tel. 01494 776193, e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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April 26th 2007

WHAT a wonderful turn-out we had for the Great Litter Pick last Saturday. It was amazing but quite disgusting the amount of rubbish that was collected from the back of the common. How can people be so thoughtless? Nevertheless, the pickers worked with good spirits, the day was fine  and the whole affair was a great village community effort. We must not forget to thank the villagers who regularly look after their own patches. They may not have been there on Saturday but we know they are doing a grand job and we thank them. Look on the website for the pictures. My daughter in Italy was amused to see me apparently hoovering  the front grass !

APOLOGY. My information about the evening with the Pampered Chef was incorrect and incomplete. The date is 17th May but this is not a W.I. meeting. The event is part of the group's charity of the year, St. Francis Hospice and all profits will go to that worthy cause. I understand that there are tickets are still available, ring Pam Ruff 01494 786053. There will be a bring and buy table for cookery books, particularly older ones - you know where the recipes are for everyday dishes made from easily obtainable ingredients.

BY the time some of you read this, you will have seen "The Hollow." Whilst admiring the set, did you notice the scene glimpsed through the french window? This was the work of Bob Burns-Green. Although he knew it would be visible for only seconds, it was meticulously designed and painted.  This is typical of the work that goes into the sets, everything is planned to give the correct atmosphere of the period of the play.

HAVE you bought your copy of the programme for this year's fete? We are promised a feast of entertainment. Do you know, it could be even better than last year - there is so much to see. Now is the time to start baking cakes for the cake stall, look out those objets d'art for the white elephant stall but please no jumble and books, videos and CDs, etc. for the drama group stall. Most of all David Coulton asks for your help, not only for selling programmes now but helping on the Friday afternoon to set up the rides and on Saturday morning (12th) generally setting up for the whole fete. He needs people for car parking duties and then, don't go away, help to clear the common at the end of the day. He is waiting for your call, 01494 775967.

I HAVE written before about the Thomas Ball Children's Cancer Fund. this group is indefatigable with fund-raising and the next event is a Rock'n'Roll Evening to a live band, the B17s. On May 4th at the Great Missenden Memorial Centre, you can dance from 8pm till late . There are prizes for dancers in 50s gear. Tickets are £12.50 including buffet but bring your own drinks. Ring 01494 890157 to book.

DON'T forget Curry Night in The Plough on May 9th and the special international menu dinner on 23rd. Both gastronomic occasions in the Minstrels Gallery.

Sylvia Brown, tel. 01494 776193, e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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April 18th 2007

WEDNESDAY morning started badly with the news that England had been knocked out of the cirkcet world cup. I was quickly cheered up by Bob Thompson's news. Six of his young pupils has passed the examination in pianoforte, Emma Hardy with distinction. Congratulations to all the girls and I think that Bob must take a little of the credit for their success.

WHY not make Tuesday your Green Day? Leave the car at home and take the bus to Amersham. I know that an argument against this is that we have only 65 minutes in the town. At the present time, one can do quite a lot in that time. However, when that new store opens in what was Budgens, it may not be long enough. It occurs to me that if more people used the bus, the company may be persuaded to extend the schedule.

THIS week we had an extra passenger, Sidney accompanied by Sue Flint. Like all her puppies, he is quite delightful and larger than the others. He is destined, if he passes all the tests, for an elderly couple who want a large dog. Sue was delighted to tell us that Yorick is now sponsored by The Kennel Club.

A FEW weeks ago I told you about the most interesting and entertaining morning I enjoyed at a demonstration by The Pampered Chef. The committee of our W.I. have invited her back as a guest at the May meeting on Thursday 17th at 7.45pm. Non-members are welcome for the small admission charge of £3. Numbers have to be limited so please ring Pam Ruff 01494  786053 to book as ticket as admission will be by ticket only.

THE FETE is only three weeks away, please let the weather be fine. We are hoping for the Spitfire to be able to make an appearance this year. Last year, if you remember, it was too cloudy for it to take to the air. One thing we can be certain of is the Flower Festival in St. Adrews Church. This is always a delight and a chance to enjoy a few quiet moments in our lovely little church. Every club and association in the village produces an arrangement of garden, commercial or even wild flowers. There is no set theme this year, just appreciate the imagination and artistry of our flower arrangers.

SUNDAY, April 29th marks the opening match of the Hyde Heath Cricket Season. It will be an inter club challenge match. This should be great fun as we show Vaughan, Flintoff and Co. how it should be done.

HAVE you bought your tickets for "The Hollow?" You haven't? Well hurry up, they are going fast and the show is next week, Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7.45pm in the Memorial Hall. You can buy them at the Shop or ring me, £7.50 with concessions at £6.50  but do it now.

SEE you at the bus shelter on Saturday, 10am for the Great Litter Pick

Sylvia Brown, tel. 01494 776193, e-mail SylvieSmiles@aol.com  

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April 11th 2007

ARE you a member of Hyde Heath Village Shop Ltd? That is, did you pay £10 and receive a share certificate which entitles you to vote on matters raised at the Annual General Meeting to be held this year on 23rd May. If you have changed your postal or e-mail address or telephone no. please advise the secretary Val Merrett at am.vm@tiscali.co.uk

I THINK at this stage, you had better get out your diaries, events are coming thick and fast.

SUNDAY, 22nd April in Little Missenden Village Hall, the Annual Parochial Church Meeting and Parish Lunch at 12noon. Please advice the parish office 01494 862008 if you wish to attend. Continuing with church affairs, on Saturday 28th April at 7.30pm the Spring Concert takes place in the church of St. John the Baptist. Entitled "From Russia with Love" the programme features artistes from Novgorod and the U.K. Tickets £7 are available at the door or reserve by telephone, as above.

YOU will have of course already noted that 28th April is the last night of "The Hollow" performed by the Hyde Heath Drama Group in the Memorial Hall at 7.45pm. There are still some tickets available from the Village shop or by contacting me - sylviesmiles@aol.com

CRICKET news. This is what you have been waiting for, isn't it? Each Saturday morning until 28th April, there will be Nets at the Beacon School. That evening, we get our little grey cells in working order for a Quiz Night. This is at Ballinger War Memorial Hall at 8pm. Tickets are £10 which includes supper are available from Caroline Capper 01494 784043. Then we move on to the Big Event. The Weekend Extravaganza, starting with the Hyde Heath Beer Festival on Friday 22nd June, 7.30 to 11.30pm. Tickets, again from Caroline are £15 which includes two free drinks, the BBQ, live band, followed by a disco. Unfortunately numbers are limited so do book early.The following day is President's Day and the weekend concludes with a six-a-side tournament on Sunday. For details of all these events, contact Caroline.

THIS year, Caroline hopes to arrange another "Golden Oldies" outing. No details at present but you will be the first to hear when I have confirmation.   Reply

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April 4th 2007

LISTENING  to the radio this lunchtime, there was a discussion on whether eating too much red meat could cause breast cancer. How many other causes will be discovered? Again, surely it is a case for moderation in all things. This took my mind back to the special meals we had at Easter when I was a child pre 1939. There as smoked haddock topped with a poached egg for tea on Good Friday. Saturday dinner (mid-day) was the superb boiled beef. I can still see and taste that lovely pink slice of beef , so tender with the hint of salt. I don't think you can get this now and probably someone has said it is very bad for us . What are you having this weekend?

SPEAKING of food, what a feast they had last week at The Ploughfor the Bulgarian Evening. Chef Jordan's wife and daughter were there to explain the tradition of the various dishes, the recipes and why that fantastic brandy was drunk with the platter of hors d'oeuvres. Next Wednesday is Curry Night and on 25th April, the dinner will be from Mexico. Have you bought your tickets for the Grand Easter Raffle from the bar? The draw will be made on Easter Sunday.

I HOPE you have marked Saturday 21st April on your calendar. This is the day when we will return the village to its litter-free perfection. You could make a start now by checking the outside of your house and the hedge opposite. Every bit of paper, chocolate wrapper or bottle that you can pick up will make a difference.

THURSDAY 3rd May is voting day to elect our representative for Little Missenden, Hyde Heath and Little Kingshill Ward on Chiltern District Council. This year one of the candidates actually lives her in Hyde Heath. If elected, it would be good to have someone who knows our problems in the seat of power. Our roads, full of potholes are becoming dangerous. The neglected footpaths, hazardous for elderly people and mothers with toddlers. The money for improvements never seems to be available for Hyde Heath.

HOWEVER, there is a light on the horizon. Chiltern District Council is supporting a grant application on behalf of the Infants School and the Parents Association to the BBC's Breathing Spaces Scheme to restore the pond at the school. There are many obstacles to be overcome before this project becomes a reality, but a start has been made. I hope to keep you up to date with developments.

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March 29th 2007

ON Sunday, Margaret Dunn invited a group of friends and ex-colleagues to celebrate her special birthday. It was a happy occasion as Margaret has been such a pillar of village life. For 23 years she ran the pre-school group. How often did I hear a mother say of her little one, "He/she will do anything for Mrs. Dunn, she has such a way with them." Given a shoe-string budget, for 20 years she guided her team of helpers to provide a meal for audiences at the Old Time Music Hall. A dedicated member of the Evening W.I. she served three years as President  and when I organise a coffee morning, Margaret is my lynchpin. I know there are many other reasons to thank her but I will spare her blushes and say on behalf of us all, may you enjoy Many Happy Returns.

OUR congratulations and good wishes go to Michael Guthrie who last week received his OBE from the Queen herself - the icing on the cake. Accompanied by his wife, Joyce and daughter Lyn, it was a wonderful day, even the weather was fine.

WHEN it comes to charitable work, Chris Herring is never far behind. He is holding a Grand Easter Raffle in aid of Scannappeal. There are lots of wonderful prizes. Buy your tickets from the bar for the raffle to be drawn on Easter Sunday.

A REMINDER to the regulars and an invitation to newcomers, because of the Easter break, Pam's Monday  Lunch will be on April 16, the third Monday instead of the normal second Monday of the month. Don't forget to book with Joy 01494 786224.

THE Village Shop is welcoming Easter with an array of Easter Eggs and confectionery to suit all pockets as well as attractive Easter cards. Do take note of the special opening hours. On Good Friday and Easter Monday, the shop will be open from 9am to noon. Saturday, normal hours 7.30am to 1.0pm. Easter Sunday closed.

LOOKING ahead to May, Hyde Heath Infants School Parents Association is holding a RACE NIGHT on Saturday 12th. All details from Caroline 01494 775091 or Claire 791945. Then on June 9th there is the ever popular Soul Agents Dance. I know it is six weeks away but you may be well advised to contact Caroline now.

THIS Newsletter has really caught on, 70 copies were printed and taken last week- plus those who read it on the website. (I do hope you are putting a coin in either of the charity boxes.) With its widening circulation, do let me have news of your club's activities and details of special celebrations, anniversaries, etc. After all, it is your newsletter, I just put it together. Have a lovely happy Easter.      

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March 22nd 2007

FOR some time I have been deploring the litter that spoils the village. The Village society is taking the matter in hand and on 21st April will organise a "Litter Pick" throughout the village. Everyone is welcome to join in. We will meet at the bus stop at 10.00am where we will be handed gloves, pronged sticks and bin bags. The aim is to cover the whole village, down Chalk Lane as far as the bridge, the whole of the common and all the roads and footpaths. The committee of the society will be there in force asnd it is hoped that many villagers will come along too. Members of the Drama Group will be excused if they are involved with set building for "The Hollow."

"THE Hollow" by Agatha Christie will be performed in the Memorial Hall on 26, 27,  28th April. Doors open 7.15, curtain up 7.45pm. Please note the earlier starting time. Tickets are available from me, prices are £7.50 with concessions at £6.50 at each performance. Interval refreshments are courtesy of the group. The Village Shop will not have tickets until after Easter. Please book early to avoid disappointment.

PREPARATIONS for the Fete on 12th May are well under way but more helpers would be welcome. If you have an idea for a stall or game or would would like to help one, please ring Jayne Howlett, 01494 774209. Angela Baker will be running her soft toy tombola and would be grateful for donations of good quality toys. This stall is mainly for the benefit of The Endeavour Centre but Angela always gives a generous donation to the Memorial Hall funds.

THE ENDEAVOUR Centre in Cameron Road, Chesham providces support for physically and mentally disabled young people from 18 years upwards. They work in a flourishing nursery which has contracts to supply hanging baskets and bedding plants for various local organisations, It is open to the public from 10am to 4pm weekdays and during Bank Holidays. The Chiltern Friends of the Endeavour of which I am the hon.sec., raises funds by various means, Quiz Nights and the Autumn Grand Auction to provide extra facilities, outings and Christmas entertainment to give the clients a more fulfilled life. If you would like to know more about the Centre and The Friends, please contact Danny Baker 01494 776188.

DID you know that Buckinghamshire County Cricket Club has an under 10 division? There are 14 players in the squad and Reece Gordon of Westfield is one of this elite band. During the coming season, they are playing matches against other counties from Durham to Sussex. We wish Reece and his fellow players a happy and successful season.  

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March 15th 2007

ISN'T the village looking lovely with the trees in blossom, a riot of daffodils wherever you look and all the spring flowers ready to burst forth. Yes, it is lovely if you can avoid the litter and the dog excretia. Why, oh why cannot we control this? 1 will distress you further, this week in the bus shelter the floor was littered with torn up daffodils. Who on earth can be so mean minded to do this?

HOWEVER, it is not all doom and gloom. We have a flourishing infants school and pre-school and the toddlers group on Wednesday morning in the village hall. Time was when the school was under threat of closure with only 23 children on the roll. Now it is bursting at the seams with over 50 happy 5 to 7 year olds. True we used to have several shops and a post office but we set the trend in the Chilterns to establish our own village shop and what a success story that is. Records show that there were in the distant past, four public houses. Now we have one but that is The Plough with Chris at the helm and who could ask for more?

ON top of all this, Hyde Heath has a secret weapon - the village spirit. People care for each other here. At Pam Bowler's lunch club, two regular diners were too poorly to come to the Chapel, so lunches were taken to them. Recently the Friday Age Concern shopping bus was missing two passengers through illness. What happened? - the driver collected the list from one patient and one of the passengers did the same for the other. Perhaps we should keep this to ourselves or everyone will want to come to Hyde Heath.

CHESHAM Comedy Festival 2007. Yes, it is Hamilton Pike Productions but a new venue and different date. Bigger and better than before, it will staged at the Elgiva Theatre from 30th May to 3rd June. To give you a little taste of what is in store, among the artistes performing will be Sandi Toksvig and Bonnie Langford, Kit and The Widow and Rainer Hersch. With all this unbelievable talent on our doorstep, you will have to book early. If you book through Hamilton Pike Productions before 2nd April, you will avoid the Elgiva booking fee., after that date, all bookings must be made through the Elgiva box office. Annie has sent me one programme and booking form, you can obtain another from the office at 119 High Street, Amersham HP7 OEA or contact her on 0777 573 6879 but do it NOW.

FROM today you will be able to read the Newsletter on the Hyde Heath website - do tell your friends here and abroad. People may have physically left but there is always part of them back here and they love to hear our news – find it at www.HydeHeath.com

A WORD of warning. A knife was found at the back of the common, behind the swings. If you are using a knife for whittling, please be sure to take it home with you. To mothers, if your children are playing there, take a good look at the surrounding ground

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March 8th 2007

I HOPE you managed to find a copy of last weeks newsletter. Unfortunately on Saturday morning they got pushed behind the newspapers and weren't found again until late Sunday morning. A stack will be there on Friday afternoon, if you can't see it, please ask

NEXT week is celebration time for Ron and Eve Brown. On Thursday, Ron's mother, Laura celebrates her 100th birthday. A remarkable lady, still living on her own in her own bungalow in Devon. We join with Her Majesty in wishing Laura a very happy birthday. Ron and Eve moved to Hyde Heath in 1960, the first to take up residence in Heath Road and on Friday they celebrate 50 years of marriage, truly a Golden Anniversary. From us all in Hyde Heath we wish them a joyous anniversary with many more years of good fortune and happiness.

YOU are seeking something special to give your mother on Mothering Sunday? Caroline Waterhouse has the answer. Caroline with many years of experience now works as a complementary therapist at Wycombe Hospital, GE Healthcare and in her home practice. Among the treatments she offers aromatherapy massage and reflexology and suggests, "what could be a nicer gift for your mother than an opportunity for her to take time out for herself, to really relax and feel restored ?" Caroline is currently offering a 20% discount on her gift vouchers for Mothering Sunday. Do ring her on 01494 783632.

IN case you've forgotten, the date is 18th March and Chris is laying on a special Mothering Sunday Lunch in the Minstrels Gallery. Ring him for details and to book, 01494 783163.

FIVE villagers went to the Neighbourhood Policing public meeting on Monday evening at Holmer Green. The aim was for members of the public to identify the matters that concern them and help the police in tackling the problem areas. High on the list of all the villages came speeding, vandalism, anti-social behaviour and fly-tipping.

A WPC told me that now the 30mph signs have been up for several months, the police will be monitoring speeds. At first they will just give a warning but the next time you are caught, it will be points. So, it behoves us all* to watch our speeds, particularly Weedon Hill and Brays Green Lane.

AGE Concern Bus. I must correct the information given in last weeks Bucks Examiner. The bus stops outside the old post office, then in Meadow Way but the driver will pick up anyone from his/her home. On the return trip, each passenger is taken right to his/her own front door. At present there are four wonderful volunteer drivers, Anne Lloyd-Jones, Bill Newman, Ron Flint and Mary Collins. They would love to have a couple more to act as back-ups in case of illness and holidays. If you can help, contact any one of them for details.

"THE HOLLOW" by Agatha Christie to be performed by the Hyde Heath Drama Group in the village hall on April 26, 27, 28 at 7.45pm. The box office is now open which is a posh way of saying, ring me for tickets 0 1494 776193. For all performances, the price is £7.50 with concessions at £6.50.

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March 1st 2007

FIRST of all Happy Birthday to anyone who was born on 20 February!

THE Newsletter is now being sponsored by Christopher Rowland & Co, the Amersham based estate agent and Chris Herring of The Plough. I am deeply grateful for their support and belief in this new enterprise.

COPIES will still available in the Plough and at the Infants School and will appear on the notice board outside the shop and inside the village hall. The big difference is that at the weekend, there will be a pile of them inside the shop for you to help yourselves. As you know, this is a free service but if you would like to put a coin into the Scannappeal box in The Plough or the Pepper pot in the shop, it would be appreciated.

MONDAY, 12th is the next lunch in the Baptist chapel. Last month Pam Bowler was pleased to announce that due to the generosity of the monthly diners, there was a surplus of £75. It was decided that this should be given to a local charity and the hospice of St. Francis was chosen as the beneficiary. Ring Joy on 01494 786224 to book your place this month.

LAST week on the Tuesday morning bus, we had an extra passenger Yorick, accompanied by Sue Flint. This was another step in his training. He was extremely well behaved and went on down to the railway station to watch the trains. Sue says he is doing very well and is sure that he will make a wonderful hearing dog for a deaf owner.

THEMED Evenings in The Plough. The first will be a Curry evening on Wednesday March 14. Then on 28th we will savour the delights of Bulgarian cuisine. These events will take place in The Minstrels Gallery, please ring 01494 783163 to book. Every Thursday evening in the bar, spoil yourselves with fish and chips at £5 a head.

MOTHERING SUNDAY, the fourth Sunday in Lent, falls this year on March 18. Our village shop will have cards and a display of gifts for you to celebrate this old tradition of paying a tribute to your mother. Please note that Mother's Day is a completely different occasion, celebrated in May. I'm not sure if it is in the Catholic church calendar or if it is an American invention, perhaps someone will tell me.

WE were saddened to learn of the death of Vera Woodward after a short illness. Vera and her husband were farmers in Sarrat before coming to Hyde Heath and the farm in Fullers Hill. On retirement they moved to Keepers Lane and shortly before Christmas, Vera, now widowed was admitted to Wycombe hospital. The funeral at Sarrat will be on Monday and there she will be buried with her husband. To her sons, daughters in law and relatives, we extend our sincere sympathy and condolence.

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February 22nd 2007

NEW readers begin here. Community Voice is dead, long live the Newsletter !

A LOT has happened since my last column in the "Examiner" We had the heaviest snowfall for several years. It lasted only one day but didn't the children and their parents enjoy it. It was great to see whole families having such fun on their unexpected holiday.

THIS village is becoming the fun centre of the Chilterns. Following the pantomime, the Old Time Music Hall society moved into the hall for another two nights of rumbustious entertainment. Two weeks later, Dr. Bryn Neal was at it again, bringing the house down at the party given by the Friends of Rectory Meadow Surgery. On Saturday week, 3rd March, there is a Quiz Night in the hall hosted by the parents association of the Infants School. However, with all this going on, Chris Herring ensured that Romance was not dead here. He offered a special St.Valentine's Day dinner at the Plough. It was a delightful evening and the next day, ladies reminiscing had that dreamy look in their eyes.

SPEAKING of The Plough, Peter Hawkes has written a book about the pubs of Chesham and Amersham, in which one page is devoted to Hyde Heath and the four pubs that used to be here. As we know, only the Plough still exists.I wonder what the previous owners would make of it now? 1 did tell you of Chris's plan for themed evenings, well, with Chef Jordan, he has lost no time in putting the idea into practice. In the Minstrels Gallery on the second Wednesday of the month, it will be Curry Night. If this is not quite to your taste, wait for the fourth Wednesday for Dishes from Around the World. But if you really like the finer things of life, then every Thursday is for you - Fish and Chips at £5!

MEANWHILE Hyde Heath Drama Group is well into rehearsals for Agatha Christie's "The Hollow" to be staged in the village hall on April 26, 27, 28. Ticket prices are unchanged at £7.50 with concessions at £6.50 at each performance. There is a large cast and we welcome back Wendy Ward and newcomer Alan Francis. You can reserve your tickets now by ringing me on 01494 776193.

FETE DAY is 12th May and the indefatigable David Coulton is already into planning. If you would like to help in any way, do contact him on 01494 775967. The Drama Group will as usual be running a books, videos, CDs, etc. stall. If you have donations for this stall, you can bring them to me, any time from now on.

THE Village hall now has a REFRIGERATOR. This is thanks to Patricia Birchley, the Bucks County Councillor for Chiltern Ridges who gave us money from her special fund to purchase a specific item for use in the village hall. There it stands, in the kitchen, gleaming in all its glory and heaven help anyone who makes a mess!

THIS will be a weekly newsletter - if you have anything you would like included, a celebration, an anniversary or forthcoming event, please let me know. I can't do it without you. Your comments are welcome but not too harsh, please.

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