St Nicholas Wives Group

On November 21st Wing Commander David Greenway (retired) gave a talk about the working of the now disbanded Queen's Flight. He explained his job and the logistics of getting the Royal family to appointments on time - a very precise operation. He also told us of some of the less glamorous parts of the transportation of the royal family to the far corners of the world: the geese in Buckingham Palace grounds playing a part in making the pick up of members of the royal family in London a tricky business without a slip up on their mess. We were told stories of the royal family that would never hit the tabloid press as they proved how gracious and pleasant they are as individuals.

David's talk was well received, he also told us about his current work, which is interviewing older people about their lives. These interviews are taped and then archived. They form a valuable resource and it is hoped that members and their friends will volunteer to be interviewed so that knowledge of the recent past is not lost. Anyone interested in being interviewed can contact any member of the Wives Group and arrangements can be made.

Our meeting on December 11th was led with a talk by Rev Bidden about the Childrens' Society.

The next meeting of the group will be in the village hall on January 16th. It is our seasonal party. We are starting than usual so that there is enough time to chat and partake of all the different dishes. Pre-dinner drinks will be served at 7 o'clock. Gloria Goodliffe

Test Valley Borough Plan

The new draft Borough Plan should be available at Beech Hurst and on the TVBC website before Christmas. This sets out the framework for all future development in Test Valley for the next few years. It defines where new houses may be built and what sort of development will be allowed in the countryside. The public consultation period is expected to be the first six weeks of the New Year up to 14th February. Please copy any comments you make to the Parish Council so they can be taken into account when the Council makes its own representations.

LONGPARISH PARENT AND TODDLER GROUP
Wednesdays 10-11.45am
at the Village Hall

Many of you will be glad to hear that as from January 8 we will have a new parent and toddler group starting in the village.

We contacted the Parish Council who were very supportive. They suggested that Test Valley Borough Council might support the venture with a grant.

Test Valley Borough Council will contribute £795 and the Parish Council, £200 towards setting up the group. This will enable us to buy lots of lovely toys and equipment.

A typical session at our toddler group will include:

and much more!

We really want this group to work as it’s the only group for under threes in the village and also a place where the adults can get to know each other. So, all we need now are babies, toddlers, children not at playgroup, mums, dads, grandparents, nannies, childminders etc.

Hope to see you there on January 8

Nicky Derrick and Anna Fowles

P.S. We are still looking for helpers (not necessarily parents) to help with teas and coffees, if you could help please ring Nicky on 720452.