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The Sandford Link

Summer 2019 Issue 154

Editor: Hazel Douglas — Email: sandfordlink@gmail.com

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Contents—Parish & Church News / Talking Shop / Village Events / Festival / Classified ads / WI / Local News / Activism.

SANDFORD MASSAGE THERAPY Relaxation | Sports / Deep Tissue | Therapeutic | Pregnancy

Bernice Landels, BHS (Massage & NMT), Dip Sports/Therapeutic Massage Board Certified Structural Integrator (IASI)

07734302176 | sandfordmassage@gmail.com I operate a private clinic from a quiet location in Sandford-on-

Thames. Mention this advert and receive £5 off your first massage.

T.J. Hall and Son Ltd - Motor Engineers Vehicle Collection and Delivery Service

Traditional Values – Modern Methods

Ask about our late night opening for MOT testing

We also offer a roadside repair service – plus 24 hour breakdown recoveries

The Garage, 46 Henley Road,

* Servicing to all makes—petrol and diesel cars, light commercials

MOT testing with full diagnostic facilities Minor / major mechanical repairs Air conditioning Engine rebuilds Cam belt changes

Sandford Village Hall can be a great venue for a party, a class, an event or a meeting.

To learn more, please contact Alice or Bernie—the VH Managers - on sandfordvillagehallbookings@yahoo.com or 07759890696

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Church News ST ANDREW’S CHURCH NEWS Ministry team: Robert Morgan (Lower Farm, 748848) (priest-in-charge); Teresa Morgan (associate priest); Liz Sha ord (772598). Church Wardens: Leslie Rhodes. Alison Nicol. Director of Music Chris an Bradley. robert.morgan@theology.ox.ac.uk www.sandfordchurch.org.uk facebook.com/sandfordchurch/

Sunday services: 10.0 a.m. Parish Communion (last Sunday of the month, a more informal Westward Communion) 6.30 p.m. Evening prayer

Bible study: Fridays fortnightly at 5.0 p.m. and by arrangement.

Choral Evensong to which all are welcome

Sunday 16th June at 6.30 Sunday 14th July at 6.30 Lewis Carroll Flower Festival Choral Evensong Choral Evensong

with the Alice sermon with the Green sermon

Biblical Literacy Project—A few people (including non-church-goers) have commented on their regret at losing a knowledge of the Bible and Chris an tradi on. Anyone wan ng to join the group to start retrieving this is invited to contact the vicar for details. Churchyard—Volunteers to strim the back (in use) part of the graveyard and Garden of Remembrance very welcome. Please contact Bob or Mick Hills. There is a sugges on about we should allow the grass in the front to grow un l the wild flowers have seeded in July. Opinions welcome.

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Parish News Welcome to the world Hughie, a first for Blake and Trish of Henley Road

Baptisms On 28th April, Benjamin Elliot and Sebastien Hudson Norton-Jones (Henley Road ancestry), children of Tammie and Aidan. On 17th February Joshua David Jonathan Wilde of Keene Close (Catherine, Thomas and brother, Isaac). On 17th February Erin Grace Brookings, daughter of Steve and Melanie, formerly of the Crescent and ancestry (grandparents) Alan and Lyn of Henley Road. On 23rd September Jaiden Sidney Barrett-King, daughter of Michelle and Aaron, and grandchild of June and (the late) Sid of Henley Road. Congratulations on their marriage David Rackstraw and Deborah Brown of Pheasant Walk Andy Gregory and Natalie Neumann of Church Road, married at St Andrew’s on Sunday 26th May. Matthew Richards of Pheasant Walk and Annabelle Townley who married at St Ebbe’s. Norman Meyer and Laurien Crowe last November. Serenus Chelliah and Caroline Shepherd of Pheasant Walk last October. Welcome to the Parish Tom Nela and Florence to Henley Road Kylie and Elden, Ayla, Saffiya and baby Zachwi to Pheasant Walk Jeanne to Batten Close Carl and Megan to Henley Road Sharon and Gary to The Crescent

Rest in peace Margaret Elizabeth Scane born 18th May 1940, died 13th May 2019, aged 78 Margaret was brought up in Herschel Crescent in Littlemore (and Iffley during the war) and married Mick in 1960 – teenage sweethearts, and they had five children (and now 30 grandchildren). She worked at the Church Army Press on Cricket Road, then to Co-op in retail. She was devoted to her family and looked after her brother Frankie in their home for 20 years. They moved to Kiln Close in 2000 from Herschel Crescent

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(her mother’s home) when the children had grown up and they could downsize. They coped with the tragedy of their son Dean’s death five years’ ago. Margaret was lovely, cheerful and outgoing, and had a good neighbour in Elaine, and many in Sandford will miss her. We offer the whole, large family our sympathy. May she rest in peace. Brian Antony Musto born 26th February 1942, died 19th May 2019, aged 77 Brian moved to the Crescent in 2004 following his wife’s death, after many years in New Marston, having been born in the Somerset House (now Up in Arms) on the Marston Road. After Cowley St John’s school he worked for W.A. Mallets (wholesale newsagents) – going to London every night be train to sort the bundles for Oxfordshire. He married Margaret, both aged 16, and had four children, Derek, Paul, Sandra and Debbie. His hobby was spraying cars, and he enjoyed frequenting the Catherine Wheel (Barry used to pick him up every day after he was ill) where he met up with his friends. He beat off throat cancer despite carrying on with his 40 cigs a day – the doctor knew better than to ask him to give up – and Paul was able to move in with him and care for him. Brian had a good life, was friendly and easy-going, enjoying the company of his dog, Honey, and friends at the pub. The funeral will be at St Andrew’s shortly. We offer our sympathies to his family – eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild as well as his sons and daughters. Andrew John Hutton born 12th November 1970, died suddenly on 9th May 2019, aged 48. Some in Sandford will remember with warmth, Andrew, who was brought up by his grandparents, Hazel and Bob Hutton, at 1a Main Avenue. He went to school at Peers and worked 9 years for Metal Salvage in Iffley Road with Mick, his Dad. He married Julia and had two children, Taylor (15) and Charlie (!6), and they lived latterly in Kennington. Andrew had a passion for fishing and was on a fishing holiday with his best mate and brother-in-law when he suddenly died. We offer our sympathies to Julia and the children, to his mother, Vivienne, and to Mick. Andrew was a West Ham supporter and its kit/strip will be draped on the coffin at his funeral. May he rest in peace. Charles Harold (Don) Walker born 24th October 1922, died 2nd April 2019, aged 96. Don and Rita moved to a bungalow in Church Road in the ‘90s, after retiring from long careers in nursing. They had trained together at Barnet Hospital,

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married, had two sons, and Don spent many years in the TB hospitals near Bath and then near Reading, finishing as Night Superintendent in Reading Hospitals. Following Rita’s death in 2012, his son, Neil, moved to care for him, and he grew old gracefully, always with a radiant smile and ready wit, even after a fall early this year led to time in hospital and a few days in care before his sudden death. He and Rita loved to travel and went to London each year to hear St Matthew’s Passion (Bach). Deafness limited social interaction towards the end, but he enjoyed discussing politics and cooking and reading satirical political journals. His fortitude at the end remained spiced with humour, and he enjoyed his status as the oldest man in the village. At his funeral, Neil and his daughter Catherine read, and we sang ‘Guide me, O thou great Redeemer’ (a Sandford national anthem for obvious reasons) with its verse ‘When I cross the verge of Jordan, bid my anxious fears subside . . . land me safe on Canaan’s side’. Music also from Out of Africa (John Barry), Some Enchanted Evening (South Pacific), and the final chorus of J.S. Bach’s St Matthew Passion. Don’s ashes will join Rita’s in the St Andrew’s Garden of Remembrance. He will be remembered by all who knew him as a delightful, remarkable, generous man, but above all funny. We offer our condolences to his sons Neil and David, and their families.

Should Sacred Space be warm? St Andrew’s was among the coldest churches in the county until some new heating was installed in 1988. This was still not enough, so in line with Sandford policies on conservation, ecology and the environment we recently installed ‘heat from hell’ - 110 metres below the churchyard is apparently so warm that getting it ground-pumped into the church keeps the building warm 24/7 – good for the fabric and encouraging its wider use, but especially, by keeping it unlocked during the day, encouraging passers-by to drop in - and some to pray. The occasional concerts held in the week have been appreciated, especially the Wantage Swing Band (twice) and the Blackbird Leys singers; and Mozart’s Requiem on April 7th was wonderful. We’re looking for more. Winter weddings and choir practice are also warm now. But the main points of the building are to facilitate Sunday worship and

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encourage its use for private meditation and reflection. If warmth helps anyone, it’s worth the investment.

What do you get for your money? In conjunction with the June Link delivery and Parish Fete, the vicar once a year goes begging – knocking on doors and asking those who are at home and answer to buy raffle tickets – great prizes - (or make a donation) for the Church Building Fund. That is asking residents who do not much use it to help maintain a building that with occasional additions and rebuilds has stood at the centre of the village for about 930 years. There are events there to which everyone is invited and welcome, but since the building is open each day, it also offers a quiet space where prayer has continued over the centuries, and where generations of villagers have been baptised, married and buried – a place where anyone can come in and be still and know, find in the silence the peace they may be looking for, or sit quietly in the graveyard (on a fine new bench donated by the King family in memory of Barry at the Catherine Wheel) or in the garden of remembrance. It is holy ground, God’s earth, and the church council continues with your help to maintain and treasure it. But maintaining a sacred space as a village asset at a time when many no longer use it regularly, if at all, is a kind of commitment to future generations, and a hope that spiritual values will continue to be nurtured in a country that does not want to lose its moral compass.

Memorial tree It’s great to see the Prunus Kanzan at the lock in memory of Robert Yates (formerly 43 Church Road) whose cheerful presence on his bike, on lock duties, and cutting the graveyard grass is a warm and abiding Sandford snapshot for many of us.

And congratulations Diana Beckett and Christian Bradley, with Guy Newbury, for their hugely enjoyable concert on April 1st, raising funds for Steppin’ Stones.

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TRAFFIC REGULATION NOTICE— Notice is hereby given pursuant to Sec-tion 14(2) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act, 1984, that the Oxfordshire County Council temporarily prohibits the use of the road at Marsh Bal-don, B4015-Goldenballs Roundabout to Chiselhampton B480 to facilitate Routine Surface Dressing Starting on 25 June 2019, the anticipated completion date is 29 June 2019. Limited access will be maintained for emergency service vehicles and for frontages within the closed section of road, subject to the pro-gress of the works. The “No Waiting” restriction means that wherever there are in place yel-low “No Waiting” cones, you will not be able to park vehicles. Suggested Alternative Route: via A4074-A329-B480 and vice versa

UK has some lovely snakes and they are more visible and active in the summer. If you see a snake, don’t panic and move slowly away. Most are completely safe and protected, although it is useful to be able to tell the difference. Adder or Viper - Viper berus Adders are clearly distinguished by a dark zigzagging line down their back set against a grey (male) or light brown (female) body. They also have a ‘V’ or ‘X’ shaped marking on the head. Adders are venomous, but adder bites are rare and seldom fatal. No other snake species in the UK is venomous, so it’s worth being able to recognise them! However, adders are

secretive and well camouflaged so it’s unlikely you’ll come across them often. Try to tread heavily in sunny grassland so the snake can ‘hear’ your footsteps and move out of your way. They live in open habitats where they can bask in the sun, such as heathland, moorland and open woodland. For a lovely little article, read Country diary "love-and-

fear-in-the-company-of-adders" Barred Grass Snake, Natrix Helvetica Grass snakes do not have the ‘V’ or the dark zigzag down their backs like adders, making them easy to tell apart. Grass snakes are grey-green coloured with black bars down their sides and a yellow and black ‘collar’ around the neck. They are found throughout England and Wales, but not Scotland, and live close to water as they

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Sandford Contacts Sandford Link—Hazel on: sandfordlink@gmail.com Parent and Toddler Group – Lucy Wickes for information (07962 191316).

Junior Tae Kwondo - James Kumar: jameskumar@hotmail.co.uk

Pilates with AJ - AJ Barton: ajbarton@hotmail.co.uk

Talking Shop Lunch Club – Elaine Kimber: ekimber@talktalk.net

Pilates with Jane Callaway - Jane Callaway: janecallawaypilates@hotmail.co.uk

Sandford Film Club – Prue Sykes: robert.morgan@theology.ox.ac.uk

Sandford WI – Jill Love: jpappslove@hotmail.com Tel: 01865 716557

Talking Shop: contacts.talkingshop@gmail.com (or pop in)

Sandford Parish Website: www.sandfordonthames.org.uk

for Parish News, The Sandford Link back issues, Li lemore local, Expressway News, etc.

feed on amphibians and fish. As such they may be found near garden ponds. Don’t worry though - grass snakes are not venomous and are very shy; if cornered they tend to play dead! And we have just discovered a new species… Common or Eastern Grass Snake, Natrix natrix (Also known as Ringed Snake for the yellow collar.) Probably an imported species.) Smooth Snake, Coronella austriaca Smooth snakes are extremely rare, found only in heathlands in Dorset, Hampshire and Surrey. They hide under stones and logs rather than basking in the open. If you are fortunate enough to see a

smooth snake, they are grey-brown, with two rows of black markings down their back and a heart-shaped crown on the head. They are browner than grass snakes and the black markings are on their back rather than their sides. Smooth snakes are strictly protected by European law and reintroduction programmes are trying to save this species from extinction in Britain. h ps://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/blog/2018/02/grass-snake-or-adder/

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Sandford on Thames—Results of Sandford-on-Thames Parish Council and District Council Elections Sandford-on-Thames Parish Council Elections 2nd May 2019. This was un uncontested election as the number of candidates equalled the number of vacancies (7) . There is one new councillor, Tammy Holden-White and the other councillors who stood down have been re-elected by default. Sue Lawson, who was the District Councillor representing Sandford-on-Thames and the Wittenhams, did not stand for re-election but rejoins as a parish Councillor. We are delighted to welcome Tammy to the Parish Council and welcome back Sue. The newly-elected District Councillor (for Sandford-on-Thames and The Wittenhams ward) is Ms Sam Casey-Rerhaye who stood as the Green Party candidate. We are delighted to be welcoming Sam to our Parish Council meetings especially as she (and the Green Party) are committed to opposing the Oxford-Cambridge Expressway and excessive housing development in some of our local Green Belt areas on environmental grounds. Sandford on Thames Annual Parish Meeting Minutes of meeting held in the Village Hall, Mon May 13th 2019 at 6.30pm Present: Hilda Bailey, Peter Addyman, Andrew Glynn, Tammy Holden-White, Charlie Wilson In Attendance Cllr Lorraine Lindsay-Gale, two parishioners, Julie Anderson, (Parish Clerk) Apologies for absence: Iain Geddes, Sue Lawson, Sam Casey-Rerhaye Minutes of meeting held May 19th 2018: Agreed and signed by HB Matters arising: There were none. Chairman’s report 2018-19: This reported how major planning issues had dominated the parish agenda and taking up much time developing responses opposing most of the proposals which are all felt to be damaging to the local environment generally and the village in particular: the proposed Expressway with a possible motorway route skirting close to the south of the village, The SODC Local Plan 2034 with the possible development of over 3000 houses on the green belt south of Grenoble Road and Oxfordshire Plan 2050 with its vision of building more infrastructure and housing to promote economic growth across the county. The PC also expended considerable time and effort opposing a planning proposal for redevelopment of a chalet bungalow in the village into a block of 8 flats. The planning application decision process is subject to a formal complaint from the PC. The problems with insufficient grasscutting in the village will hopefully be improved with a change to new contractors. The fill report is available here. County Councillor’s report: The summary of the year also focussed on the ambitions of the Oxford Growth Deal with the government to deliver a massive increase in housing and new roads across the county and South Oxfordshire in particular but also reported major efforts to repair the weather-damaged roads and improve traffic flows. The careful financial management of council finances which had brought about difficult spending choices in recent years means there is now room for some re-investment in services for children, young people and adult social care. Oxfordshire’s recycling rate is one of the best in the country. District Councillor’s report: There was no DC report this year as the District Councillor has stood down and Sam Casey-Rerhaye has been elected in this month’s local council elections but unable to attend this meeting. Neighbourhood Plan report: Due to the many large-

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scale housing and infrastructure plans made at District Council and County Council level likely to impact Sandford-on-Thames, the NP committee decided at a recent meeting that the current NP which had been approaching first draft stage would now be put on hold until there was a clearer understanding of whether these plans were going forward. Statement of accounts: Prop HB and sec CW The accounts were presented by the Clerk and adopted by the meeting. Balance brought forward at the beginning of the financial year was £15,026.73 and that carried forward into the next is £27,748 into the 2019/20 financial year. The accounts are available of the website here. A vote of thanks was given to Eugenia who had once again given her time to perform the annual internal audit of the books before they are presented to the External Auditor. Matters raised by parishioners: Talking Shop: group of volunteers is developing a neighbourhood support group, “Talking Neighbours” eg identifying needs, facilitating connections. There are suggestions about how to provide more information about the Parish Council and what is does eg Parish Council abbreviated information on Talking Shop noticeboard and perhaps to use the Talking Shop leaflet drop to include a leaflet from the PC if the PC wanted to reach more people. A proposal was made to place signs to raise awareness of the Talking Shop /Café by the kissing gate into the recreation field, for those walking on Church Rd, on the tow path by Sandford lock and possibly by the mini-roundabout at the junction of Brick Kiln Lane and Henley Road. This was discussed and supported. SANDFORD ON THAMES PARISH COUNCIL Draft minutes of AGM of the Parish Council held on Monday May 13th at 7.30 pm in the Village Hall following the Annual Parish Meeting. Present: Hilda Bailey (chair), Peter Addyman, Andrew Glynn, Tammy Holden-White Charlie Wilson, Lorraine Lindsay-Gale (OCC rep) In Attendance: Julie Anderson (Parish Clerk), one member of the public Apologies for absence: Iain Geddes, Sue Lawson Approve and sign Minutes -approved. Prop by HB, sec. by CW. Matters arising: Traffic and parking items covered below. A complaint re the planning application process over the Cabora Bassa redevelopment is now complete after considerably work by IG and HB. The letter of complaint was approved and will be sent by JA. It will also be posted on the village website. The cycle path still does not have any barriers to keep out vehicles and JA will write again to the Roads Development Officer. Information about one possible community defibrillator has been received and JA will provide 3 quotes for the next meeting for a final decision. Abi Johnson attended the Annual Parish Meeting and a discussion was had about ways that Talking Shop and the Parish Council can work together. It was agreed that it would be useful to have a parish notice board in the Village Hall for useful information and similar notices could go on the proposed Talking Shop notice board. A small information pack for those new to the village was also suggested. Formalities following Parish Council Elections: The election was uncontested as the number of nominations was equal to the number of candidates. HB welcomed Tammy Holden-White as a newly appointed councillor. Declarations of acceptance of Office were signed at meeting. Completed Register of Members Interest will be submitted by 4th June. Election of Chairperson: HB was re-elected as Chair having been proposed by PA, seconded by AG. Continued on Page 18

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Sandford Talking Shop

The Village Hall, Henley Road, Sandford-on-Thames, OX4 4YN

Shop phone: 07305 307421

Enquiries: Shop - Richard.talkingshop@gmail.com; Cafe - Miranda.talkingshop@gmail.com; Market -Market.talkingshop@gmail.com; Volunteering - contacts.talkingshop@gmail.com

www.sandfordtalkingshop.org

Saturday Market, Shop & Breakfast Cafe 9am- midday

All your grocery basics with core items kept at supermarket prices - look for the Talking Value symbol. Great bread, milk, yoghurt, eggs, cheese & more, all from independent producers. Delicious pork, sausages & bacon from Coopers. Lamb & Beef from Waterperry Farm. Fresh veg from Oxford’s family greengro-cers Bonners.

Lunch Club * 1st Wed in the month. June 5th & July 3rd * A delicious 2 course meal for grown ups (18+) at12.30. * To book - Elaine: Ox 395771 / ekimber@talktalk.net Remember that drop-in cafe customers can feast on this too - Main £4 Pudding £2.50 Food Surplus Cafe * 3rd Wed. Next cafes June 19, July 17 * A feast made from food surplus that would otherwise go to waste. * Drop in & pay what you can * From 1pm to 2.30 in the Talking Shop cafe. * No need to rush - plenty of great food to the very end.

Knit & Stitch

Knit and Stitch continues to meet at the cafe on a Monday morning, from 10-12 am. We are a small friendly group who welcome newcomers, including those who maybe just want to drop in occasionally, or need a bit of help with their craft now and again. The group love to share their skills and knowledge and to learn from each other. Some of the group, for example,

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have become proficient in making crocheted necklaces, the skill having been picked up by an attendee on a cruise ship!

Crafting though isn't strictly mandatory and it is true to say that more chatting goes on than making sometimes and some folk just pop by for a cup of tea! Please do pop in if you fancy it, We would love to see you.

There is a wealth of experience and skills at Talking Shop. If you have ever fan-cied learning to knit, crochet or sew or anther craft, then please do come. Please also get in touch if you have particular crafting skills and interests you would be interested in sharing, or If you fancy learning a new skill, but the Knit and Stitch group doesn't work for you. If there is interest we could look at set-ting up some workshops.

Table Tennis

Are you interested in competitive, or simply social table tennis? Drop in ses-sions every Tuesday 5.30pm to 7.30 costing £3

Sandford Table Tennis Club has now been going for 4 years, and we support and are part of Talking Shop. We are delighted to report on another successful season in which our first team, Sandford Improbaballs, have been breathing in the rarified atmosphere of Division 2 in the Didcot League, and have acquitted themselves very well for a first season. Meanwhile our second team, the Sand-ford Misfits were undefeated, finishing as worthy winners of Division 4 and will be promoted to Division 3 next year. The third team, Sandford Bees, although struggling at times with injuries, still managed to challenge right to the end of the season and only just missed out on the second promotional place.

However we don't measure our success simply in terms of competitive re-sults. Our drop in sessions are every Tuesday evening from 5.30 to 7.30 costing £3, and you will find us a friendly bunch and very willing to help new or return-ing players to improve, and to have a bit of fun and exercise. We have a wide ranging age group, from teens to senior citizens, so there is room and a wel-come for all.

Everyone, as

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REPORT TO PARISH COUNCILS APRIL 2018 - 2019, FROM CLLR LORRAINE LINDSAY-GALE

A full version of this report is available on the Link Website—

http://www.sandfordonthames.org.uk/community/sandford-on-thames-13626/the-link/

DECEMBER – GOOD NEWS FOR SOME - EXPRESSWAY UPDATE

The best news for this Division is that Corridor B1 has been narrowed so that Shillingford, Warborough, Dorchester, Clifton Hampden, Burcot, Berinsfield, Newington, Drayton St Leonard and Stadhampton are no longer in the danger zone! While this is a huge relief for these villages, the impact the expressway may have on Chiselhampton, Culham, Nuneham Courtenay, Sandford, the Baldons and Garsington still has to be discovered.

ever, is very welcome to come along to our Tuesday sessions but we're look-ing at adding a different kind of session for beginners or false beginners, old or young. This would be for those who wish to learn to play, to develop their basic skills, or who would simply prefer their table tennis on a a strictly social/fun footing. There would just be a small charge to cover hall hire and other costs.

Now we just want to gauge the level of interest and explore which timing might be convenient for people so please email John Dennis jpsdennis@hotmail.com if you'd be interested in the drop-in with your answer to this:

Option 1 - Thursday (possibly from 5-7pm)

Option 2 - Friday eve (possibly from 5-7pm

Abi Johnson - Director—I'm not at my Talking Shop desk every day, so it may take a few days for me to reply.

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Oxfordshire South and Vale Citizens Advice boosts help for Universal Credit claimants

Citizens Advice has designed a new service to help you and speed things up if you are claiming Universal Credit for the first time but having problems with the application.

The "Help to Claim" service will be available in England from 1 April 2019 over the telephone, face to face, and online through “webchat” and Internet content.

We can advise on your eligibility, set up an email address or Universal Credit account, fill in the initial application form, get access to a computer, or arrange advance payments. We can also help you by ensuring that the right evidence is submitted with your form. And if you only need minimal help with your application, Citizens Advice can provide tips if you get stuck.

As part of its normal service, Citizens Advice also supports people who are already receiving Universal Credit.

The national Freephone number for Help to Claim is 0800 144 8444. Telephone and webchat services are available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Monday-Friday)

For any other issues you might need help with, please telephone the Citizens Advice Adviceline on 03 444 111 444.

Come and see us in person if you prefer. For locations of offices and opening hours see www.citizensadvice.org.uk/local/oxfordshire-south-vale

No Expressway Alliance—A coali on of individuals and groups opposed to all suggested corridors and routes for an Expressway between Cambridge and Oxford formally launched on 14TH September 2018 in Botley, Oxford.

VOLUNTEER JOBS AT THE NO EXPRESSWAY ALLIANCE: Secretary, Communica ons Officer (Social Media), Treasurer, Policy and Research Volunteer. For all posts: apply to Dr Hazel Dawe, Chair, No Expressway Alliance – hazeldawe5@gmail.com with relevant details. For an informal chat about what would be involved, ring Hazel on 079444 71083

Postal communications: 53 Bulan Road Oxford OX3 7HU – 07747 036192 Website: www.noexpresswayalliance.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NoExpresswayAlliance/ Twitter: @NoExpressway

https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/stop-green-belt-destruction-in-oxfordshire DATES: Monday 17 June: Should Oxfordshire Grow? The proposed Expressway and new communities – Civic Society debate, 7.30 pm, Oxford Town Hall. Book tickets here.

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Sandford-On-Thames Women's Institute—Early Summer 2019 Meetings in the Village Hall at 7.30pm on 2nd Thursday in the Month (no August meeting) Social evenings are arranged by members monthly, helping to develop deeper friendships and alleviate loneliness.

Our main focus is combining our Centenary Oxfordshire Federation Exhibition with the famous Flower Festival which will be held in St Andrew's Church on the weekend 13th-14th of July along with the Summer Festival on the Saturday. Many of the Flower Festival ladies are also WI members, we are hoping that the others will join with us. Several are offering, if this is something you enjoy please come and help. We are setting up on Thursday evening 11th July at the church.

We are still hoping that more people have information for us regarding the earlier WI's. We are slowly gaining memories and pictures of the past.

9th May we changed our meeting to Gary Prescott talking about "Climate Change and much more". We enjoyed hearing his adventures cycling through the Andes meeting up with isolated tribes and helping with various environmental charities in the UK.

13th June we will be holding a Centenary Tea Party, normal time of 7.30pm. Sandford's first WI was founded a century ago in June 1919 and lasted until 1978. The 2nd from late 1990's to early 2000's. Our 3rd was formed at the end of March 2016, so we will be celebrating our 3rd Birthday.

We are hoping that members will share the decades and produce a variety of foods for that period and even dress up. Those of us old enough remember fish paste sandwiches 1940- 1950's , Black Forest Gateau in 1970's.What would we choose for today?

13th July WI stall outside the St Andrew's church, produce and baked products. (Tombola at Christmas Extravaganza)

August Social event for members including a Hen Night for Helen Judd who will marry in September.

St Andrew’s

FLOWER FESTIVAL WEEKEND OF 13TH/14TH JULY

10.0 – 6.0 to celebrate 100 years of the Women’s Institute in Oxfordshire.

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Zumba with Nuria is a dance-fitness class with Latin-inspired music, that is fun, social and energetic. Steps are easy to follow, so anyone can do it. Each class feels like a party! £5 per class, no booking required.

Tuesdays at 11:00 at Littlemore Village Hall.

Wednesdays at 11:00 at Rose Hill Community Centre. Parents with little ones wel-come to this class (please get in touch for more information)

Fridays at 10:00 Ark-t Centre, the Church Hall ( Temple Cowley)

For more information contact: nurifranchy@hotmail.com. Facebook: Zumba with Nuria. Website: nuriaf.zumba.com

12th September 2nd Well Being Festival with stalls, therapies, information and closing with Tina Bakardzhiera "Relaxation and Fun".

We hope that all of you have remembered to fill your garden or even a window box with bee friendly plants before it's too late. When we have many wild flowers including on the grass, leave them to the bees until they stop flowering.

Since 2009 WI members have actively supporting the protection of our pollinators, which are declining alarmingly. The campaign "SOS Honey Bees".

Let us follow the example of the Netherlands who had over 300 native species of bee near extinction. With cooperation throughout the country, there are few bees on the endangered list now as every effort is being made to grow only native plants and trees. We should actively work to achieve these aims too.

Wishing you all a lovely Summer and hope to see you during the special weekend 13th-14th July.

2019-2020 Committee Officers :-

Jill Love President 01865 716557, text only 07900907477 jpappslove@hotmail.com Carole Harris Secretary Carole Tasker Treasurer

Committee members :- Helen Willmot Assistant Treasurer and Sharon Fenn Vice President. Many other members kindly give their time and help as needed.

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It’s not worth the risk Do you know that 95% of collisions are due to human error? Distraction, speeding, not wearing a seatbelt and driving under the influence of drink or drugs are

the big fatal four on our county’s roads. Could you?

put your phone in your glove compartment or set your phone to do not dis-turb before you start your journey

adjust your speed and make sure you have time to react to the unexpected

make sure everyone is wearing their seatbelt before you set off

get a taxi, the bus or be the designated driver on a night out

make sure you’re safe to drive the morning after, you could still be over the drink drive limit, even if you feel fine. Oxfordshire County Council Fire and Rescue Service have put together top tips to help you avoid the fatal four, and have created an handy ‘don’t get caught out the morning after’ guide: http://www.365alive.co.uk/cms/content/its-not-worth-risk .

Parish Council Meetings from Page 11 Election of Vice Chairperson: Currently vacant OCC Councillor Report: Given in preced-ing Annual Parish Meeting, available here. Matters for consideration 1) Neighbour-hood Plan: this was covered in the preceding meeting. The NP has been put on hold pending decisions about the large-scale housing and infrastructure plans affecting the area. It was agreed the banner at the top of Church Road would be removed. 2) Liai-son with Talking Shop- this was covered in the preceding Annual Parish Meeting and in the matters arising above. 3) Traffic and parking issues in the village- JA has met the Highways Officer on site about the parking affecting the junction at Heyford Hill. He will look into the feasibility of white lines and a white Keep Clear sign on the road sur-face (similar to the one on Church Road opposite the junction with River View). A traffic survey would help quantify the extent of speeding along Henley Road and this can be done electronically. The Highways Dept will arrange a survey for 7 days at a cost of approximately £100. It was agreed to proceed as long as the cost is not more than £150. JA will liaise with Highways. 4) Possible provision of electric car charging points- deferred till next meeting when IG is present. Planning: 1) P19/S1107/FUL: Wid-en pedestrian access and form vehicular access with off street parking and turning

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area.at 15 Henley Road -no objections were made. 2) P19/S0623/FUL: Construction and operation of a 49.9MW battery storage facility, access road and hard surfacing; and a habi-tat management area on land to the South of the existing Cowley substation off Grenoble Road (Blackberry Lane). As clarified by Applicant's email dated 3 April 2019. Response from developers to PC’s objection lodged after last PC meeting previously circulated. The agent for the developer offered to meet the Parish Council to discuss concerns further and JA to find out if a site visit can be arranged. Income and payments: There were approved. AOB: 1) Insurance: Came and Company have provided 3 quotes for the Parish Council annu-al insurance from 3 different insurance companies and it was agreed to accept the lowest quote from Ecclesiastical who were the PC insurers last year. It was also agreed to fix for 3 years as this reduces the premium from £1362.77 to £1296.75 per annum. In recent years, insurance cost has risen each year from £920.59 in 2016. 2) The internal audit of accounts has been carried out by Eugenia Skelly and thanks were given for her pro bone work for the parish council. The Annual Governance and Accountability Return has been prepared ready to send to the external auditors and the appropriate pages were signed at this meeting by HB and JA. The Annual Governance Review was carried out at the same time and the PC is satisfied that proper processes are being followed. This was signed by AG. AG kindly agreed to take on the role of checking the parish accounts at the end of each quarter. 3) The compensation for the Thames Water work in the Fox Furlong recreation area has not yet been received but JA has chased this and it is expected shortly. As the previous consultation with local residents did not elicit any significant response, it was proposed that some of the money would be used to purchase a bench to be sited by the memorial tree on the corner of Church Road. JA to investigate prices etc. 4) Planning ap-plication P19/S1176/HH – to install dropped kerb at 105 Henley Road. No objections were made.

Jobs in Sandford—Paid and Voluntary Working in Sandford could be a great way to meet people, learn some new skills, help your community and, maybe, earn some money. Volunteers in Sandford can cook and serve meals, befriend people who are housebound, carry out con-servation work, serve on committees, and many other jobs. There are many employers in Sandford offering a range of paid jobs. People offering job opportunities can use the Sandford Link to advertise jobs—paid and unpaid—and people looking for roles can register their interest by getting in touch with the editor: sandfordlink@gmail.com

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Announcements, Notices and Classified Ads

For articles and ads, please contact Hazel on sandfordlink@gmail.com or call 01865 682611 or 07989 97 5969

HOME COMPUTER HELP

For PC & Laptop fixes and assistance, call Jim on 07854 107 337, or email home.computer@btinternet.com

Sandford Film Club The Film Club has continued to meet regularly

on the first Thursday of the month. You are welcome to go on to our no-obligation email

list.

Contact robert.morgan@theology.ox.ac.uk and come along when and if you wish.

Sandford Link — Articles and small ads welcomed Winter Issue — available 1st Dec — copy by 16th Nov Spring Issue — available 1st March — copy by 20th Feb Summer Issue — available 1st June — copy by 20th May Autumn Issue — available 1st Sept — copy by 20th Aug Email: sandfordlink@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/ord.on.Thames/

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Live Better. Live Well Oxfordshire Looking for information about services and activities in Oxfordshire? Then Oxfordshire County Council’s Live Well Oxfordshire directory is the place to start your search - the easy to search online directory brings together over 2000 services and activities. From care services to help people stay independent, transport services to help people get out and about, and new hobbies for people to enjoy to local carer groups, you’ll find useful information and advice on a range of subjects – all aimed at giving you greater choice and control over the support and services you or a loved one need www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/livewell

Saunders Gardens I am an experienced Sandford-based gardener, and can help you with general gardening, patios/drives/fences. Reasonable rates. Good local references. saundersluke@yahoo.com 07867 494062

DOG GROOMING I now have a grooming room in Sandford and can take ap-

pointments from June 1st on Mondays and Saturdays. As yet I only have room for small or medium dogs, for

bathing, grooming, nail clip-ping or stripping.

I am qualified and insured, and can pick up and return

your dog if needed. Reasonable charges

Anna doggrooming19@yahoo.com

07368 256770

Sandford House Cleaning sandfordcleaning@yahoo.com

07368 256770 Thorough and reliable for one-off

or regular cleaning. Excellent local references.

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W. Cooper

Affordable Landscapes and Tree Care Free Estimates and Advice given 01865 747194 07748 867025

will.coope@yahoo.co.uk

PARENT and TODDLER GROUP Mondays 10 – 12 in the Village Hall

Contact Lucy Wickes for information (07962 191316). Mums, Dads, Grandparents, etc. very welcome.

Oxford City Council will launch a new lo ery on 5th March, with the proceeds going to good causes throughout the city. When you buy a cket you will have the op on of choosing what charity you would like to support from those listed on the site. You might want to consider nomina ng TANDEM, which sets up befriending partner-ships to support people recovering from mental ill-health as they regain confidence and rebuild their lives. We are a small charity which relies on our local support. More

informa on, when available, on www.tandembefriending.org.uk.

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Work and Life Coach / Mentor

My name is Hazel and I am an experienced and qualified coach with extensive management experience in both the for-profit and not-for-profit

sectors and have lived and worked in Oxford for over 30 years (and Sandford for 18 months.)

If you want a reflective space to think about your life and work, with skilled guidance and support, please get in touch. We can work on work-related challenges, work-life balance or related topics.

For more information about me, please look at my website: www.oneriverview.co.uk or email me: contact@oneriverview.co.uk

Friday 10:30 am –12:30 pm

Learn a new language through conversationPractise English with other friendly peopleMeet friends and new peopleFree! Drop in –no need to book

Littlemore LibraryOxford Academy Campus

LanguageCaféOxfordshire Libraries

@oxonlibraries Oxfordshire Libraries

FREE session in the library

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The Sandford Link is published by the Link Committee and edited by Hazel Douglas, Sandford-on-Thames Tel: 07989 97 5969.

All articles and advertisements for inclusion should be produced as MS Word documents and e-mailed to: sandfordlink@gmail.com

Printed by Oxford University Press.