March 2009
OVERTON ORACLE
Overton’s Free Newspaper - issued
monthly to over 600 homes in Overton
March 2009
The Editorial Team EDITOR - JILL
BURTON Please remember that the Oracle has no reporters. We rely on individuals or representatives of our village’s many organisations to write contributions and e-mail them to editor@overton-on-dee.co.uk or leave them at the Corner Shop. So if you think there is something that should be in the Oracle or your organisation is not mentioned - do something about it! Write something for the Oracle! EMAIL YOUR STORIES TO
EDITOR@OVERTON-ON-DEE.CO.UK |
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| Volume 11. Issue 3 March 2009 Happy Mother’s Day to all Overton mothers
MOTHERS’ DAY - MY HERO I’ve read with interest over the past few months the campaign in the national press to award our troops with a recognised medal for their services in the conflict zones of Iraq and Afghanistan, whilst I fully support the campaign I may raise a few eyebrows in thinking that the gap between Hero or Idiot, Bravery or Stupidity is that of a very narrow margin, even more so in the field of conflict where acts of heroism last just a few seconds or at the most, a few minutes as does that of the mega rich footballers, sports and singing stars who pick up an OBE etc for virtually very little effort.
For me a true Hero is someone who I know very well, in fact she happens to be my sister-in-law Gwenneth Austin. It’s only just recently that I’ve been able to fully appreciate the mammoth burden she took upon herself and with very little help from any other source, to care for her severely disabled son, an act of heroism which has lasted now over 35 years. During that time she also took on board the responsibility of caring for her elderly Mother who was also a wheelchair dependant. With very little help from her late husband she still found time to be a good Samaritan to other people, run the Thursday Club, be a very active member of the Methodist Church, and at any event in every quarter of the village her helping hand is so often always readily available, for so very little reward. An unsung Hero indeed, but in every sense of the word she is my true Hero. And if when the time comes, there is such a place as Heaven, Gwenneth is one person I know that deserves to go. CHILL
OUT
Well we missed the BIG freeze...it seemed that we only got a medium
sized one but there was still plenty of time for us local youngsters
to have lots of fun in the snow!
A
great bit of good, old fashioned fun - how many of you grown ups couldn't
resist SPRING’S
COMING
Catkins are out, The
lambs have arrived, Soon
it will be Easter day.
Ramblings From the Rectory Dear Friends, There is a custom which is scarcely heard of today, but in medieval times was very popular. This custom was built around a figure called Jack o’Lent. He was a straw figure dressed in rags and was intended to represent Judas Iscariot, the Disciple who betrayed Christ. This ragged straw figure was paraded through the streets on Ash Wednesday with crowds booing and jeering it. It was then placed in a prominent position where everyone could see it and those who wished could throw sticks and stones at it. Throughout the period of Lent this straw figure stayed there, and if anything remained of the effigy when Lent was finished, it was burnt publicly. Most often there was very little left to burn. There are many customs associated with Lent. But they all remind us that as human beings, we all have failings. It is nice to be able to take everything out on a scapegoat such as Jack o’ Lent. But the reality is at times we all let each other down, or do something that we would rather forget. A friend of mine once said: “I have many faults, but being wrong is not one of them!” If only that was true! Lent is a positive time, when we can truly assess our lives, both the positive aspects and the things we are not so proud of. And then start again. God loves each one of us and wants us to live happy and fulfilled lives, not lives bogged down with guilt and regret. So
why not use this Lent profitably, letting go of the things that weigh
our lives down, and try to be the people god would have us be, forgiving
and loving Human Beings. COUNTRY
BEAT
Crime has recently remained low across the area , however I would ask you all to remain vigilant and report any sightings of suspicious vehicles, in particular in the rural areas of Tallarn Green, Marchwiel and Horsemans Green. I have received reports from Wrexham Highways that they have lost a number of metal "Gully" Covers in these areas over recent weeks. It is quite likely that we have a scrap metal thief operating in the area, most probably driving a van of some description, if anyone has seen a vehicle of this type in suspicious circumstances over the last few weeks I would be grateful if you could let me know. There also appears to be an emerging trend in respect of Mini Diggers, JCB`s and Farm Machinery / Plant. Please ensure you take reasonable precaution to secure these items, to date we have lost around six in the last few months. During a normal working month your local policing team will attend a number of meetings across our area of responsibility; these meetings, often community council meetings give representatives from your community the opportunity to raise and discuss any concerns they may have about police related matters in the respective areas. On a number of occasions Road Safety has been highlighted, particularly in respect of speed, manner of driving, lack of safety belts and parking. It is the intention of your police team to actively address these matters in the followings areas in Overton - Station Road, Wrexham Road, School Lane, Salop Road and also will be monitoring the Speed of School Buses. Positive enforcement is likely in the form of prosecution so please keep your speed down and your safety belt on. Overton
Police Station E-Mail : Luke.Hughes@nthwales.pnn.police.uk OVERTON MEDICAL PRACTICE We have some very good news that Dr Sreeram, one of our current Registrars, is expecting her first baby, in April. She will probably start her Maternity Leave at the end of March. We send her and her husband ‘Congratulations’ and we will let you all know the news when the time comes. Soon patients will start to see a bar code printed on their prescriptions. This will improve efficiency for Pharmacists and improve safety and security for the issue of medications. Dr Bowdler is instigating a new ‘Telephone Consultation Protocol’. What this means is that for a certain time, on most days, he will allocate time which can be booked, the same way as a normal appointment, for him to ring the patient on a number which they have supplied to hold a short consultation over the telephone, saving them a visit to the surgery. This could be at home or at work, whichever is suitable and used to perhaps follow up discussions or give advice relating to previously seen or existing conditions, or for medication reviews where existing prescriptions are straightforward. Test results could be discussed or the suitability of medications. The Doctor would ring at the appointment time, only one attempt will be made, no message or dialogue left with a third party. Your thoughts and comments on this service would be appreciated. It is hoped to start as soon as possible, but we will make it known once we are up and running. SCHOOL NEWS
On behalf of all at St. Mary's School, we would like to thank everyone
who either attended or helped organise our hugely successful 'Open
Morning'. ABU DHABI ADVENTURE Overton’s Tom Hodgkinson and his FGS adventure racing team have completed the ABU DHABI ADVENTURE CHALLENGE, across 361km of desert, sea and mountains to finish in 19th position in 49 hours 12 minutes and 59 seconds, and as the second GB team by 36 minutes. The Abu Dhabi Adventure Challenge is a multi sports race in teams of 4, racing over 6 consecutive days in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Disciplines are: Sea Kayaking, Camel Hiking, Cross Orienteering, Mountain Biking, Adventure Running, and Rope Activities. Each team consists of 4 competitors (with no Assistance crew). Teams have to be mixed. The first 3 days were fast and furious for the triathlon and Tom was cycling alone ahead of the pack followed by 45.5km mountain bike race and 85km sea kayak where Team FGS gained a 2.5 hr lead over their GB rivals. Days four and five were spent in the desert with blistering heat and blisters. The final day was an all up hill mountain summit bike race, a 200m abseil, a14.5km canyon trek and the final 27km mountain bike race to the finish. The team worked together as a strong team, at some points even towing each other in order to get to the finish line. A magnificent effort. KIDS
KOLUMN Hi everybody its March. Ask Alice A: Hi Molly, Although your parents may sound mean they are just trying to look out for you, you don’t know who’s around, but maybe when you are 10 your parents might let you go with a couple of friends. Thanks.
Q. What wobbles when it flies? A Jellycopter Q. What sits in a pram and wobbles A Jelly-Baby Q. Why do Jelly Babies go to school? A Because they want to be Smarties Q. What sits in Custard looking cross? A Apple Grumble Lottie’s Pet of the Month Pet:
Dog Breed: Chihuahua Reviews Film –
Hotel for Dogs Messy Church Easter Fun Morning
SATURDAY 11TH APRIL Ways to help the Overton Play Centre The Play Centre has recently been registered with the Utility Warehouse discount club which is part of Telecom plus PLC, a major UK company and backed by the Police Federation. With them you can save money on your utility bills and they will beat the prices of the main 6 players in the market. Combine your electricity, gas, telephone, internet and mobile telephone bills or a combination of any of these by going to the Utility Warehouse and The Play Centre benefit as well by being given a direct donation from the company of up to 5% of your bill total. You save money on your utilities and we make money, so everyone wins!!! Please ring Anne on 01978 710854 for more details or if you have any queries. Our reference no. is B84900 and you can easily switch your utilities by calling 0800 1313000. The
Play Centre is also registered with Easyfundraising.org.uk If you
buy through this website with shops such as Marks and Spencer, Next,
Currys, Argos, WH Smith, Comet, HMV, Pets at Home, B & Q, Screwfix,
John Lewis, The Body Shop, Boden, HMV plus many many more –
then The Play Centre will directly benefit. You will find us under
‘Overton Pre-School Play Centre’. Please also remember that we are still collecting clothes, shoes, soft toys and handbags for the recycling initiative. Should you be having a clear out I am happy to collect the bags from you and store them until the collection date in June – more information nearer the time!! Play group fundraisers
for March Saturday 7th March from 10.30am. We are going to have a stand at the W.I. sale at the village hall and will be face painting and doing crafts suitable for Mothers Day and Easter. Do come along with your children and have some fun! Charity bag packing initiative 21st March. From 10am to 5pm the Play Group has the opportunity to bag pack for shoppers at Stans Superstore in St Martins. If you come along to shop on that day, we will help you pack your bags and you have the opportunity to donate a small amount of money for our efforts if you wish!!! Also, if anyone can donate a couple of hours of their time to help us during this fundraiser, we would really appreciate it. Please contact me Thanks, Andrea (tel: 710246) George, Beryl & Me Overton Village Hall will plays host on March 14th to The Central Town and Country Touring Company’s production of “George, Beryl & Me”, an evening of family entertainment, the songs George sang and the stories surrounding them. The evening will cover the story of George Formby and his wife Beryl., the entertainers who made the nation laugh and sing in the 1930s and 40s. It will tell as much of their story as possible from the perspective of the people who knew them both or came in contact with them. Having researched the story Imelda Delve of the CTCT Company hopes to give a balanced view that will emphasise the talent of both George and Beryl and the sheer stage persona of George. Imelda says “The show I have devised rekindles an interest in George and his music for those who had forgotten him or in some cases never heard of him, like the young actor in the show, Russ. So it will have an all-round appeal as we tour the show around Shropshire, Cheshire, Staffordshire and the borders” An evening of tremendous family entertainment, a good night out and a chance to banish the winter blues. Show starts 7.30pm. Tickets are £5 and available from 07733092616. Saving
Grace – A tale of two journeys My usual experience of the movies is bittersweet. A twelve mile trip to Wrexham’s multiplex theatre is preceded by a swift mugging at the box office. I realise that this is the warm up to the pick and mix counter where my little cherubs will manage to relieve me of what meagre resources I have left. I get strange looks leaving the shirt off my back as part payment…. The films nonetheless are usually great with excellent sound and sharp quality images so I keep returning. Recently though, I was lucky enough to venture out on a cold Friday night to Overton’s inaugural screening in the village hall. A short trip, a hot pork bap, a glass of wine and the film ‘Saving Grace’ - it was brilliant. I laughed in particular at the two W.I. members behaviour in the film as they attempted to serve a customer whilst stoned on cannabis – it was hilarious. And given the fact that hydroponics and industrial growing was discovered by Police in the local area a couple of years ago, the storyline wasn’t so unbelievable. The screening, undertaken by local enthusiasts, was an attempt to gauge interest and judging by the turnout, there is plenty. The hall was packed and I wasn’t laughing alone ?. Wilf and his fellow enthusiasts will be looking for support to make this a regular event and I really hope it takes off. Watching a film locally, without all the commercial trappings that detract from the experience was great and I’m sure I’m not the only one who thinks so…. Village
Hall hosts Blue Bands
Overton Scouts Centenary Badge and Neckerchief Available Overton Scouts are trying to raise £1,000 for a firework display for the village on September 18th to celebrate 100 years of Scouting in Overton. The centenary badge, in green and gold with the scout logo in purple, is £2 and the neckerchief, also in green and gold, is £9. If you would like to buy either or both please contact Group Scout Leader David Burton on 710631. If every household bought a badge we would easily reach our target!
For the first time in 100 years, Overton Scouts has a girl in the troop. Antonia Harlow from Cross Lanes joined the troop last September. One of the leaders nicknamed her Bruce, as Antonia was a bit of a mouthful, and this name has stuck, even at home. Antonia is happy just to be regarded as one of the group! If there are any other girls aged 10½ to 14 who would like to join, come to the Scout Hut on a Friday evening at 7pm—9pm. There were girls in Overton Venture Scouts some years ago. The name has now been changed to Explorer Scouts, we’ve only got boys at the moment, but if you are between 14 and 18, boy or girl, you are most welcome to join Explorers, who also meet on a Friday. Calling all Overtonian Musicians
St Mary’s Church is organising a concert for local people with
musical talent .... so if you reached Grade 8 or that level and are
currently playing or rusty (and want encouragement to get the dusty
instruments down from the attic) then we want to hear from you. Your Letters...
Dear Editor, Dear
Editor, Dear
Editor, Banquet - Back by Popular Demand Overton Amateur Dramatic Society (OADS) together with the Twinning Association are bringing back our themed Banquet after a break of 3 yrs. Following on from the original Mediaeval Banquet organised by Ann Lipson in 1992 to celebrate the 700th Anniversary of Overton's Charter, OADS took up the mantle and over the years have had themes including Caribbean, Roman,The Good Old Days and the War Years.
This year think ABBA, Black Forest Gateau, Blue Nun, Glam Rock, Disco,
Chopper Bikes and Klackers just for starters. That's right - we're
going back to the Seventies with a three course meal, entertainment,
music and dancing. So why not get in the mood, dust off your platform
shoes, and dig out those flared jeans, tank tops, hippy wigs and cheesecloth
shirts. Make a note of June 20th in your diary and watch out for details
of tickets going on sale. Don't miss out! THANK YOU
It gives us great pleasure to be able to announce that the sale of
Overton on Dee Christmas Cards, made using the photos of the village,
which were so kindly donated by local residents, generated a profit
of £246.34. This has been divided between the three active churches
in the village, so each church will receive a cheque for £82.12.
(once gift aid is added, this will increase to over £108 if
my calculations are correct). A very big thank you to all who bought
the cards, the local residents for their photos, and Steve and Sandra
Whitely at Prontaprint for without their help, none of this would
have been possible. I would like to thank all our customers and friends for their enquiries and good wishes whist I have been off work ill and for accepting the reduced hours of opening at Select & Save while I am off work. Thank you to my staff for the extra work they have done for me. I hope to be back at the helm & behind the counter again very soon. Thank you all so very much. Caroline Wason Many thanks to Oracle distributor Rona Williams who cycles round her route whatever the weather. and is greatly appreciated by residents of Cloy Lane. |
