What's On

Below is a list of events taking place over the next few weeks.  If you want your local event publicised here, please

Quick Links and important news:
    Buckland Newton Community Plan now has its own website at www.bncommunityplan.co.uk - if you want to be involved in the plans for our neighbourhood under the Localism Bill, then please check out the information on this new website.
    New Non-Emergency Police Number
    Emergency weather conditions (school closures etc)
    Post Office now operates from the Old Chapel Stores on Monday, Tuesday and Friday from 10.00 am to 1.00 pm.
    Affordable Housing
    Buckland Newton Traffic Watch Concerned about the amount of traffic (and its speed) using the B3143 past the Post Office and School?
    Village Personalities Page  - hidden talents and personalities.
    Village Hall Booking Diary

The Localism Bill
As you're probably aware, the Localism Bill could have far-reaching effects on planning, housing and industrial development in our locality.  A steering group has been set up to develop a Neighbourhood Plan, with the aim of allowing the community to set its own agenda rather than be dictated to from above.  Your involvement could be vital!  Check out the new Community Plan website at www.bncommunityplan.co.uk for all the latest information

Have a septic tank?  Do you need to register it?  You may have seen in the news recently, although it's been pretty well hidden, that there is a directive from those nice people at the EU requiring owners of septic tank drainage systems to register them for exemption by the end of 2011 or face a hefty fine. Well, that was the case, but apparently the authorities have now had a bit of a rethink, so the latest information is understood to be as follows:

Septic Tank Registration - Information Update
The Environment Agency has decided to carry out a review to see if they can further simplify the system for small domestic sewage systems, although exemption is considered to be the lightest touch way of dealing with the EU Directive. When the review is completed, it may still be a requirement to register for an exemption or some other form of notification, as they have the requirement under the EU Water Directive. So presently the EA has suspended the requirement to registration, although they are still accepting registrations.  The review is expected to be completed in the next few weeks. If the system of notification is in some way changed, then it is normal EA policy to carry over e.g. presently accepted notifications and granted exemptions to any new system. The EA still require septic tanks to be operated and managed correctly pending completion of the review.

It is still possible to register your tank if you so wish. To register your system and obtain a Discharge Permit Exemption, go to:
http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/business/topics/permitting/116406.aspx For on-line registration go down the page to: Water discharge notification -Begin the online registration process.  To download the PDF form, go down to:
http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/static/documents/Business/WQX001v02Aug10_e-form_Opt2_1.pdf  Save the form file to your computer. It can be filled in when opened by tabbing through the form and typing. When completed, email to: Enquiries@environment-agency.gov.uk or print off the blank form and complete in ink.  When completed send to: Environment Agency, Quadrant 2, 99 Parkway Avenue, Parkway Business Park, Sheffield, S9 4WF.  No doubt this will be as clear as the contents of your septic tank.

Buckland Newton Pre-School.  Buckland Newton School Staff and Governors are proud to be able to offer a new Pre-School facility starting at the end of October 2011.  This will operate Monday to Friday, 9.00 am to 12.00 noon at Buckland Newton School.  It will cater for children aged from 2 years 9 months until 5 years.  If you use your Early Years Funding Vouchers, there is no additional cost.  Non-funded hours are charged at £4 per hour.  This will be a fun, safe, stimulating environment within the school.  We offer separate outside play area for our foundation stage children for a wide range of exciting activities.  For any further information, please contact Emma or Elaine in the school office on (01300) 345393 during school hours or e-mail office@bucklandnewton.dorset.sch.uk 

Calling all amateur Thespians!!  Are you interested in being involved with another production at Buckland Newton Village Hall?  After the rip-roaring success of Murder at the Manor, we are going to put on a pantomime.  If you would like to be on our contact list for further information please contact Fizz Lewis (01300 345521).  Auditions have now taken place and the cast chosen.   However, we are always looking for new talent and people who would like to help.  Please say what you are interested in helping with - e.g. on-stage, backstage, front of house etc.  No experience necessary - we discovered an amazing amount of latent talent last time!

Digital TV Switchover. If you receive TV via a satellite dish, the changeover will not affect you. Three transmitters cover this area with the majority of people receiving BBC West or HTV and these change over to digital transmission in March 2010. If you receive BBC South or Meridian from the Rowridge transmitter, the change will take place in 2012. Digital reception can be received on any television, no matter how old, by connecting a set-top box, providing that your existing signal is of a sufficient strength.  The price of a decent set-top box is about £30. Selecting the correct box is important, as their ability to cope with lower signal levels varies markedly. If anyone would like a test or demonstration, I am happy to connect one of my boxes to your TV to show you what can be received free of charge, or to set up your own Freeview digibox for you. The alternative is to install BBC Freesat at a cost of £150 or Sky Freesat for £170, including the satellite dish. It is not necessary to make the change until these dates but by changing sooner you will be able to receive many more channels.  If you would like some help (free of charge), please give me a ring on 345560. Trevor Marpole

Allotments in Buckland Newton. There are now allotments in Buckland Newton and those wishing to express an interest are asked to contact Vanessa Wellstead, 01300 345183 nesswellstead@btinternet.com or any of their Parish Councillors. The allotments are about a hundred yards from the Gaggle of Geese, opposite 'Elkins'. Given the size of the plot, it's likely that the field will also include a community orchard.  Growing your own vegetables, salad, herbs and fruit is very satisfying and a productive way of keeping active. Allotments are also renowned for the community spirit they engender and so even if you've haven't grown veg. before, you're bound to find others who will be happy to offer advice.

Village Cookbook.  There are still a few copies of the Village Cookbook available.  If you missed out the first time there is still a chance to buy a copy.  Please contact Sue on 01300 345586.  Copies are £7.00 and an inland postage service is available for £1.50. 

Regular Events:
    Youth Club.  Tuesdays 6.30 pm - 8.00 pm, Village Hall.  The Buckland Newton Youth Club is open to 11 to 16 year olds.  Tuesdays will be our regular club night, 6.30 pm to 8.00 pm.  The project is possible entirely due to the generosity and overwhelming support of the villagers.  A huge thank you to those who have donated funds and equipment including (to date) the Village Fete Committee, the United Charities of Buckland Newton, the Church of the Holy Rood, Captain and Mrs Gueterbock and Andrew Stone Architect Ltd.    For information on membership and upcoming events please contact David Oswald (01300 345800) or Nicola Richardson at The Old Chapel Stores (01300 345336).  Click here for full programme of meetings/events.

    Lunch Club.  A 2-course meal with tea/coffee on the second Friday of each month, at Buckland Newton Village Hall or a Pub. Over 90 or 80? Maybe in your seventies?  Living alone and no longer driving, except to potter around the village?  You have a disability or long-term health problem, and would love to get out to meet old friends or make new ones?  If so, we would be delighted to see you at the Second Friday Lunch Club, which meets every month alternating between the Village Hall at Buckland Newton and a local pub.  The cost is £5 for 2 courses.  To summarise our membership policy...  We welcome anyone who is elderly, housebound, those with reduced mobility, for those who are carers for a family member, or those living alone.  Sadly this has to be restricted to those living in Buckland Newton or one of its hamlets.  We also have to limit the numbers to 36 when doing a Village Hall lunch.  Please note that couples are not excluded as long as one member meets the criteria as outlined.  And, if you are still a youngster in your sixties but are interested for the future, let us know, and your name can be added to the waiting list.  Presently we have 2 or 3 spaces, so don't be shy, the phone numbers to ring are 01300 345356 or 01300 345586.

    Village Cafe 10.30 am to 12.00 noon, every last Friday in the month (except August and December).  Buckland Newton Village Hall.  A great opportunity to meet people in the village if you are new to the area or just hang out with your friends for an hour to catch up with them.  More details from Fizz Lewis 345521.

    Wednesdays 2.00 pm - 3.00 pm. Buckland Newton Village Hall.  Adult Keep Fit Class. Contact Sarah Mitchell on 01258 817288

    Fridays 3.30 pm - 4.30 pm, Buckland Newton Village Hall.  Keep Fit Association 'Youth Moves'. Creative Dance & Fitness for children aged 4-10.  Pulham Village Hall 5.00 pm - 6.00 pm; ages 11 and over.  Contact Sarah Mitchell on 01258 817288

    Yoga - Buckland Newton Village Hall.  Mondays, 2.00 pm - 3.30 pm - over 60's; 5.45 pm - 7.15 pm - mixed ability.

    Thursdays 9.30 am to 10.30 am, Village Hall. Sammie Mcfarland has started a Pilates Class in Buckland Newton on a Thursday Morning at 9.30am till 10.30am. The class is aimed at beginners but have adaptations for those that have practised Pilates before. The class runs for 6 weeks in term time only. As long as the participant is able to get up and down from the floor they are able to participate. This will be a master class teaching the basic principles at foundation level. The class will be taught at a pace that ensures you are working with the correct technique and hands on correction will be given.  Pilates is challenging for all individuals. It builds strength & improves posture & flexibility. Pilates also sharpens your coordination and flattens your tummy!  If interested, contact Sammie by e-mailing mcfarlandsammie@gmail.com or telephone on 07581 416237

Wednesday 11th April, 7.30 pm, Village Hall.  Lydden Ladies.  Neal's Yard: Talk and Products with Sarah Edwards.

Sunday 15th April.  Services at Holy Rood Church.  9.30 am - 10.00 am, Family Praise.  All are welcome, young and old and in between, to join in the family praise service held on the third Sunday of each month. Please stay for refreshments after the service.  6.00 pm Evensong.

Tuesday 17th April, 7.00 pm, Holy Rood Church.  The Annual Church Meeting (APCM) is the opportunity to review the past year's work of the church, to discuss any issues of current importance and to receive the Annual Report and Accounts.  Volunteers are always welcome to join the PCC (Parochial Church Council).  Churchwardens, PCC members and Sidesmen will also be elected during the meeting.  The meeting is open to everyone who wishes to come and we look forward to seeing everyone there.

Thursday 19th April, 3.30 pm, Village Hall.  Second Friday Lunch Club AGM.

Saturday 21st April, 8.00 pm, Halsey Arms, Pulham.  Quiz Night organised by Friends of Buckland Newton School (FBNS) fund raising for Buckland Newton Primary School.  Maximum team size of 6.

Saturday 21st April.  Holy Rood Church Buckland Newton.  Organ Music for St George's Day.  We welcome back Jonathan Clarke, whose playing of the organ for a Remembrance Concert a couple of years ago was truly memorable and moving.  Don't miss the chance to hear him playing again.  The programme will consist of favourite pieces and selected readings reflecting the theme of England and St George's Day - be prepared for some really rousing numbers, played with verve and panache!  We hope to have some choral numbers as well, plus opportunity for audience participation!  Ticket information soon.  Unfortunately this concert has been cancelled; organist Jonathan Clarke has suffered a broken leg and is unable to play.  We hope to reschedule the concert at a later date.

Wednesday 25th April, 7.30 pm, Village Hall. Lydden Vale Gardening Club.  Alan Eason: "Water in the garden".  For full programme of events and meetings click here.

Friday 27th April, 10.30 am - noon, Village Hall.  Village Cafe.  Not a cafe in the conventional sense, the very popular Village Cafe takes place on the last Friday of every month (except December and August).  It was started for several reasons, the main ones being to introduce people new to the area to others and to keep people in touch with each other and what is happening in the village. It is not meant to be a fund raising event, there are plenty of those already in the village, but any money that is raised goes towards 'extras' for the village hall which will benefit the cafe as well.  All who drop in are assured of a warm welcome, some homemade cake as well as coffee or tea. It is entirely run by villager volunteers on a rota basis. The Cafe runs from 10.30 am to 12.00 noon and the charge is a very reasonable £1.00.

Saturday 28th April, 10.00 am, Village Hall.  Plant Sale.  The village plant sale has been a feature of the Buckland Newton Springtime for about the last 25 years.  Several thousands of pounds have been raised in support of the Weldmar Hospice Trust as a result.  Ever mindful of others, only a couple of days before she died, Grace Hunt said she no longer felt fit enough to be able to run the 2012 sale and needed to start looking for someone to take over as organiser.  There is always a brilliant team of helpers who do a tremendous amount to help but it needs someone to take on the overall co-ordination.  Grace had already booked the Village Hall for 28th April.  Please help us to continue this worthwhile event now in Ann Sowerby's and Grace's memories.  If you feel able to volunteer as organiser / co-ordinator, please let Richard or Sue know (01300 345586).

Wednesday 9th May, 7.30 pm, Village Hall.  Lydden Ladies.  "A Traveller's Tale - Jordan and Petra" with Mrs Chris Shaw.

Sunday 13th May Rogation Sunday.  Services at Holy Rood Church.  11.00 am Holy Communion (Common Worship - modern language). 

Sunday 13th May, 2.00 pm to 6.00 pm Domineys Garden and Arboretum Open.  Free entry for children. Picnic in the arboretum from 12 noon. There is variety and colour at Domineys in the garden and arboretum in May, as Spring moves to Summer, freshened by the April rain, following the March dry sunny spell. Flowering are tree peonies, candelabra primula and early herbaceous. There is tree and shrub blossom among the new leaves, including, Acer's, azaleas, camellias, rhododendrons and magnolias. A very special Magnolia Globosa seedling has striking pink markings on its otherwise white hanging flowers. Home made teas. Plants for sale from Pickett Lane Nursery, South Perrott - excellent herbaceous and shrubs at reasonable prices. (LVGC members visiting the Nursery later in the Summer may like a preview?). All proceeds to the National Gardens Scheme charities. Visitors by appointment are welcome at other mutually convenient times (email cottages@domineys.co.uk or phone 01300 345 295).  Jeanette and William Gueterbock.  See also Open Gardens page

Sunday 20th May. Church Services in Buckland Newton.  9.30 am - 10.00 am.  Family Service.  A short service particularly suitable for children  but adults are most welcome too.  Refreshments are available after the service.  6.00 pm Farm Service at Knapps Hill Farm by kind invitation of Jane and Shaun Crocker.

Saturday 25th May, 2.00 pm.  Alton Pancras Village Fete in the Manor grounds.

Sunday 24th June, 1.00 pm to 6.00 pm.  Buckland Newton Open Gardens.  Centred around Locketts Lane, Hylands, Providence Row and the church, it will include about 10 gardens, two wild flower meadows and our wonderful allotments and will be a celebration of the diversity of village gardening in our community.  There will be plants stalls, local produce for sale with ice creams and refreshments.  Money raised will be for the benefit of Julia's House (Dorset children's hospice) and Holy Rood Church.  Additional helpers are needed on the afternoon to ensure everything runs smoothly so if you are willing to help, please contact Sue or Richard on 01300 345586.  Thank you.