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BAR ZERO :

Changing our lives and our impact on the planet.

Next Repair Café :
Sunday 5th October 2025, 2:00 to 4:00pm
Sunday 2nd November 2025, 2:00 to 4:00pm

At the Barford Youth and Community Centre

Our repair cafe can repair a wide range of items, ranging from electrical, electronic, bicycles, wheelbarrows, carpentry, furniture, computers, sewing repairs, tool sharpening and much more.

We have already repaired lamps, bikes, toys, CD players, bar stools, clocks, school bags and are happy to look at anything.

Tea, coffee and Homemade Cakes
No charge for labour but donations welcome

Please come along If you have anything that needs fixing or if you just want to see what we do and have some refreshments! If you have a skill in fixing things and would like to become a volunteer ‘fixer’, please get in touch.

Recycling tubs for your pill packets, dental, make up, batteries etc

Keeping In Touch
For those of you on Facebook, our FB group is a great way to share ideas about living more sustainably. To join, you can find us by clicking here.

Alternatively, we can add you to our email contact list and you will receive regular updates. Contact us on barzerogroup@gmail.com to join.

Mary Peirson

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BARFORD - A FARMING COMMUNITY:
Sunday 12th October 2025

Barford Memorial Hall from 11:00am to 3:00pm

A look back in time at our farming heritage.

- family stories
- maps
- Demonstations, spinning and rug making
- artefacts
- large screen display of old photographs
- memories, "how things have changed"

Admission free, donations welcomed.
Tea, coffee and biscuits.

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APPLE AND CIDER DAY:
Saturday 18th October 2025
Barford Memorial Hall
12:00 noon to 9:00pm

Free entry

Apple pressing
Demonstrations and opportunities to press your own, 12:00 noon to 4:00pm

Hereburgh Morris Dancers
Royal Spa Brass Band

Bar - real cider, cask ale, lager, wines, soft drinks, snacks and filled rolls

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BARFORD HERITAGE GROUP

Sunday 12th October
Barford Memorial Hall, from 11:00am to 3:00pm

The Group will be holding an exhibition of the history of farming in the village up to the present time.

There will be displays, maps, a rolling series of old photographs on screen, artefacts from times gone by and memories from members of the community who once worked on local farms.

It should be a fascinating insight into the changes of rural life in our lovely village.

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CALLING ALL MEN 40 and OVER:

Wellesbourne and District Lions are again sponsoring a PSA Prostate Cancer Screening Event.

Saturday 18th October
Wellesbourne Sports and Community Centre
Loxley Close
Wellesbourne CV35 9RU

From 10:00am to 4:00pm

It's just a simple 10 Minute PSA Blood Test.
The test costs £15 for the first 90 men to book, and £25 for later bookings.

Click here to book your test and find more information about prostate cancer and the Graham Fulford Charitable Trust.

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EMERGENCY DEFIBRILLATOR (AED) :

The village of Barford has an EMERGENCY DEFIBRILLATOR (AED)

which is located to the rear of Barford Village Shop. Please familiarise yourself with its location.

In the event of a suspected heart attack/chest pains, the following procedure should be used:

1. Call 999

2. When asked by the operator please give the telephone number from where you are calling and the location of the cabinet which is: Cabinet 581 Barford Village Shop Church Street Barford CV35 8EN

3. The operator will ask you a series of questions which you will need to answer to the best of your ability.

4. The operator will then provide you with the access code for the cabinet

5. The defibrillator and resuscitation pack should be removed from the cabinet and the ambulance service will stay on the line and give verbal instruction if required.

6. Switch on the defibrillator and it will then provide you with verbal instructions for use.

7. The defibrillator cannot be used incorrectly as it will only deliver a shock to the patient if it is necessary.

8. There are scissors in the resuscitation pack to assist with the removal of clothing and a pocket rescue breath mask to carry out CPR.

Remember THINK safety

Look around before pushing the button to shock and SHOUT the command.

STAND CLEAR SHOCKING and then check to make sure everyone is clear.

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FACEBOOK GROUP :

I have set up a community forum page for people to discuss local issues and celebrate what the village offers. It is purely for fun and utility. There is no commercial angle to this.

I have seen it elsewhere and it helps strengthen a community if done well.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/barford1/?fref=ts

Stu Barbs

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BARFORD CRAFT GROUP:

The Craft Group, which started in February 2024, has proved very popular and meets on the third Wednesday each month between 10:00am and 12:00 noon in Barford Memorial Hall.

Click here for a flyer (PDF)

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BARFORD GOLF SOCIETY:

Do you know about Barford Golf Society?

Do you play golf?

Join us for the 2025 season.
Fun golf at local courses.
Usually last Friday of the month.

All standards welcome. We play local courses for 1st, 2nd and 3rd on the day, with a nearest the pin and longest drive competition.

If you would like to get involved, please email timatbarford@gmail.com

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WARWICKSHIRE LIBRARIES HOME DELIVERY SERVICE:

Warwickshire Libraries Home Delivery Service is a free library book delivery to Warwickshire residents who are unable to visit their local or mobile library due to ill health or infirmity.

A volunteer calls once every four weeks with a selection of books based on customer preference. We can provide books in ordinary print, Large Print or stories on CD. This is a completely free service.

If you would be interested in receiving this service, please contact Debbie Bennett, Home Delivery Co-ordinator on (01926) 851031.

Click here for more details.

Click here for a flyer (PDF)

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VILLAGE VOICES :

The monthly community magazine, "Village Voices", delivered to all residents, is also available as a digital version.

Village Voices can be downloaded from the Barford Community Portal. Click here for the Portal.

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ADDINGTON FUND :

The newly appointed Royal Patron of Barford based rural charity the Addington Fund, the Countess of Wessex, visited The Fund’s office at Barford Exchange on Thursday 11th November 2021 for a working lunch to meet the staff and Trustees. She was greeted by Addington Chairman Peter Jinman and CEO Bill Young and was accompanied by the Lord Lieutenant of Warwickshire and his wife Penny. During the visit her Royal Highness was able to find out more about what the Addington Fund does in the form of disaster relief on farm and rural housing. HRH also met one of the Addington tenants who lives in one of the charity’s retirement homes in neighbouring Northamptonshire.

Immediately afterwards HRH visited Guide Dogs For The Blind at Bishops Tachbrook before returning to Surrey.

From left to right Mrs Penny Cox, Bill Young CEO Addington Fund, Tim Cox Lord Lt Warwickshire, HRH The Countess of Wessex - Patron of the Addington Fund, Peter Jinman Chairman of the Addington Fund and Martin Redfearn Vice Chairman.

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FUND RAISING FOR MACMILLAN CANCER SUPPORT:

I’m Jane, I live in Sherbourne and I am a paramedic working locally. This summer I completed the Pennine Way National Trail starting from the Peak District and walking north to the border of Scotland. It is 268 miles in total (but we added a few extra here and there with some minor detours making 275!) I wanted to do it in memory of my dad who died of cancer in 2010. He loved walking and completed parts of the trail in the 1960s.

The trail is well trodden these days but was still challenging and hilly. I had the company of a friend (Lou) and a number of other friends and family joining for several days at a time – we completed the whole trail in 18 days as planned. Several other friends, including Sherbourne resident Rachel provided our support campervan with tents and blister plasters and food!

Overall, it was a fantastic walk – very rugged and remote at times. This obviously comes with some serious weather. Thinking that walking in August wouldn’t present too much in the way of adverse weather conditions – we hadn’t expected a solid downpour for the first four days! However, the weather improved after that and the remainder of the walk was in stunning scenery with great variety and a chance to get away from the stresses of life and enjoy our beautiful green country.

Thanks for supporting my fundraising for MacMillan Cancer Support. Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. Go to
justgiving.com/fundraising/jane-cresswell3

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VASA :
(Updated March 2024)

In case you are wondering what VASA is…

It stands for Voluntary Action Stratford Upon Avon and is a charity that connects people through community activities including carer support, memory clubs, community allotment and volunteer transport in the south Warwickshire area. They have around 125 volunteer drivers at the moment who can take passengers to medical appointments at hospitals, GP surgeries, chiropodists, opticians and dentists or to vaccination centres. A small charge is made to cover the mileage and admin costs although COVID vaccination appointments are free (being paid for by WCC).

Our villages are in the catchment area and so if you or anyone you know is in need of transport for a medical appointment or to a day care centre or lunch club why not give them a try? There are a couple of volunteer drivers living in Barford so you might even get a lift from someone you know!

Are you looking for a volunteer opportunity to fit in with the rest of your life? Could you be a volunteer driver?
Do you:
Like driving?
Have a few hours to spare each week?
Want to help your community?

Call: 01789 262889 for further info.
Or email hello@vasa.org.uk
Click here for website.

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MYTON HOSPICE :

“Help Us Through with My Myton”

The Myton Hospices has launched an emergency appeal in the form of a special friends and supporters scheme called 'My Myton', to help the local charity get through the difficult Covid-19 period. The hospices in Warwick, Coventry and Rugby need to raise £500,000 in this financial year to avoid reducing services and turning some people away.

Launching the initiative, The Myton Hospices CEO, Ruth Freeman, said, “Whilst it is important that we protect the NHS and care homes, it is also important that hospices are not forgotten. Thankfully local people are incredibly generous. Eighty percent of our income comes from fundraising. But without our mass participation events and with our shops closed for long periods there has been a sharp fall in income. Also making our hospices Covid-secure has meant additional costs.

We have made savings of £1.5 million by streamlining our support activities in order to protect frontline services for patients and families, but we urgently need just under half a million pounds more income.

We are asking people to support their local hospice by becoming members of 'My Myton' and donating £10 a month for 12 months to help us through this extraordinary period with our services intact. After that we hope normal fundraising will have resumed.”

Last year, Myton supported more than 1,800 patients and their families in its Inpatient Units, with counselling, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, a 'Living Well' programme, and in people's homes through the 'Myton at Home' service. The hospices have nearly 300 members of staff including the medical teams and are helped by more than 1,000 volunteers.

Charities across the region are struggling: Myton is very much part of our community fabric, and is in need of extra funding to recover from the pandemic with all of its services intact.

Please consider signing up to the 'My Myton' programme to safeguard the future of such a vital charity."

To support your local hospice and join 'My Myton', go to www.mytonhospice.org/MyMyton to sign up online or download a form from the website. Call 01926 358383 to sign up over the phone or request a form to be sent to you.

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SELF-MANAGEMENT FOR ARTHRITIS :

Self-management, put simply, is managing your arthritis symptoms yourself using a variety of methods to address both the physical and mental impacts. Arthritis affects people differently, so self-management means individuals can choose the strategies that best suit their needs.

Founded in 1942, Arthritis Action is the only UK charity giving hands-on, practical help to combat the pain of arthritis through self-management and lifestyle advice.

Keeping Active
Staying active is essential for people with arthritis to strengthen the muscles around affected joints. Exercise can be as effective for pain as prescription painkillers, but getting started can be daunting. Beginning with something you enjoy, whether that is walking, swimming or Tai Chi, means you are more likely to carry on in the long term.

If you are looking to strengthen particular areas of your body, Arthritis Action has comprehensive exercises designed for people with arthritis on our website.

Healthy Eating and Weight management
People with arthritis often wonder what types of food they should eat or avoid to help reduce their symptoms. Contrary to popular belief, there are no particular diets or types of food that will make arthritis better or worse. The aim should be to eat a well-balanced diet and to keep to a healthy weight.

For every extra pound over a healthy weight an extra five pounds of force goes through the weight-bearing joints, especially the knees, hips and ankles. This means joints are carrying an extra five stone in weight if someone is one stone overweight, making joint pain worse.

Pacing your activities
Living with arthritis can be exhausting, and fatigue can set in. It is important to rest during these periods, but not to overdo things to compensate when you have more energy.

Here are a few tips:

• Find a gadget to save effort or time. Or ask your GP to refer you to an occupational therapist or ask others how they manage specific tasks

• Plan your week. Break tasks down into smaller chunks and rest in between. Make sure you include things that make you feel good too. Seeing friends or enjoying a hobby can give you a real boost.

It’s good to talk
Try joining an Arthritis Action Online Group to meet others in in the same boat and share your unique experience of arthritis. Groups run on Zoom and are free to attend. Recent discussion topics have included pain management and relaxation.

Click here for more information.

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A GIFT OF TECHNOLOGY FOR OUR CHILDREN –
MADE POSSIBLE BY A COMMUNITY THAT CARES :



During the early part of 2021, the team at Cool Breeze asked clients and the local community to help by donating any unwanted laptops and other devices, that could then be reconfigured and given to local schools.  The response was overwhelming and amazing.  To date we have collected, reconfigured and updated over 180 devices that have been distributed to 27 schools across Warwickshire.  A further 200 in 2022 means that we have been able to donate a total of almost 400 laptops to schools and charities across Warwickshire in 18 months! 

The difference this has made to so many lives cannot be understated. The team at Cool Breeze have decided that the work must go on in some form, so we are committed to give our time and expertise to enable the Gift of Cool Technology to reach those in need. 
 
If you have any devices/ laptops that you would like to donate to our ‘Gift of Cool Technology’ project we would love to hear from you.  We will make sure that the devices are wiped, reconfigured and updated so that they can be safely and securely donated to our (or your) chosen causes. 

Gary Harvey

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WARWICKSHIRE LIFT SHARE :

Warwickshire County Council are linked to the national Lift Share scheme which is open to everyone. You need to join online and if you can offer a lift, you post details and a passenger might reply.

Alternatively if you are seeking transport you can search to see if anyone is going your way. The more people that join the more rides that can be shared. It is suitable for one off or regular journeys.

Have a look at the link if you are interested:
https://liftshare.com/uk

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DENE VALLEY U3A :

On the 2nd Tuesday of every month our organisation hosts a presentation on a topic of general interest starting at 2.30pm in St Peter's Church, Wellesbourne. Non members are always welcome to attend at a nominal charge of £2 which includes refreshments.

If you would like to know more about our organisation and possibly also consider joining, then please visit our website at https://denevalleyu3a.chessck.co.uk/ or visit our Facebook page.

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CPR TRAINING :

Do you know what to do if someone collapses and stops breathing? Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation SAVES LIVES, by keeping patients alive long enough for ambulances and paramedics to arrive – or for someone to fetch the Public Access defibrillator.

Given that activity areas might well be a likely location for a “heart event” we have made contacts and are able to arrange some CPR training sessions. These sessions are for everyone – no previous experience is needed, and you never know where the next person you could help will come from – it could just as easily be family, neighbours or someone in the street.

Do you know what to do? If not please contact Harry Gadsden to secure a place on a training session.

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ARE YOU A GOOD DOG OWNER? :

Please don’t be the type of dog owner that spoils our green and pleasant land. Our playing fields and footpaths are for the enjoyment of everyone but sadly some dog owners are not picking up after their beloved pets. We know you love them but not everyone else does!

We received an especially sad message from a resident who found dog mess close to a family grave; this was very distressing.

Please remember this can result in a £1000 fine but don’t let it come to this. Just pick it up and put it in one of the many bins in the village.

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WARWICKSHIRE MOBILE LIBRARY:

The Mobile Library will be stopping outside the Beehive Nursery between 9.15am and 10.00am on Friday mornings on the following dates:

14th February 2025
14th March 2025
11th April 2025
9th May 2025
6th June 2025
4th July 2025
1st August 2025
29th August 2025
26th September 2025
24th October 2025
21st November 2025
19th December 2025

Each mobile library has:
• A selection of books, including large print
• Spoken word
• Books for young children

Each mobile library is accessible with a low entrance of two small steps and a ramp at the rear for wheelchair users.

For further information on the Mobile Library Service, please call 01926 851031.

Click here for more details.

You may also be interested in the Home Library Service.
Click here for more details.

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WARWICKSHIRE HOME LIBRARY SERVICE:

There is also a Home Library Service which is offered across the whole of Warwickshire. This is a free Warwickshire County Council service to those who are unable to visit or use their local library or Mobile Library due to ill health or infirmity.

We deliver library books to people in their homes/ nursing homes/ residential complexes once every four weeks, based on their personal preferences.  Click here for a copy of the leaflet or watch our promotional video via our website:
www.warwickshire.gov.uk/homelibraryservice

We can provide books in Large Print or on compact disc if required.

Don’t forget that your library card also gives access to free Ebooks, EAudio, ENewspapers and EMagazines and much more all from the comfort of your Home;
go to: www.warwickshire.gov.uk/library

For further information on the Mobile Library Service, please call 01926 851031.

Or email us on: mobilelibraryservice@warwickshire.gov.uk and we will be happy to speak to you.

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WARWICKSHIRE CAVA :

Community and Voluntary Action.
Working for a stronger voluntary and community sector in Warwickshire.

Click here for more information (PDF)

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BROADBAND ON NEW DEVELOPMENTS :

We are seeing almost daily enquiries from owners of properties on new developments asking when we will be going to their areas. The simple answer, generally speaking, is that we won’t!

Before CSW Broadband went out to tender in 2017 for Contract 3, we carried out an Open Market Review in 2016. Under this process, suppliers were sent lists of premises that appeared at that time on the Ordnance Survey Address Base. The data for this originates from the District or Borough Authorities, who enter the information into the Property Gazeteer. Therefore, the data can only include homes that have been built and registered, and is only as up-to-date as the District or Borough Authority data at that time.

If a property had not yet been built, or was not registered, then it could not be included in the data that was sent to suppliers.

It is not unreasonable to expect the developers to include broadband in their on-site infrastructure, and many do. However many people buy homes and expect that broadband will be provided, only to be disappointed once they move in. To complicate the issue, there is an EU standard that required newer homes to be built as “internet ready”, so they will have network wiring around the property. However, that does not necessarily mean that there will be any connectivity from the property to the fibre network.

Buyers of any property, new or old, are strongly recommended to check the broadband connectivity situation, if it is important to them, before they buy. Don’t just take the salesperson’s word for it!

CSW Broadband Warwickshire County Council Email:broadband@cswbroadband.org.uk

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THE HEWITT CONNECTION TO BARFORD :

Some of you may have read about the Hewitt family on the Heritage Group website. This is a fascinating and inspiring story about a very strong minded woman, Miss Caroline Hewitt who was born in Barford in 1872. After a very eventful start in life she established the much valued Hewitt School in New York in 1920. The Heritage Group has been in contact with the school to find out more about their principal’s life.

On her visit to Barford in 1928, Caroline founded a scholarship at secondary school for a promising pupil of Barford school whose parent’s circumstances precluded the expense of a higher education. The gift was in affectionate memory of her mother, Harriet. The only condition of the trust was that the scholar, for the time they had the scholarship, would place a wreath of primroses on Mrs Hewitt’s grave on the 23rd of April each year.

As a result of this and other research, our school Barford St. Peter’s, has decided to re-establish the annual placing of a posy of primroses on the grave of Harriet Hewitt in Barford churchyard. Miss Hewitt returned from America each year to visit her mother (another amazing, determined, intelligent woman).

Caroline died in 1961 having given so many pupils a great love of the theatre and particularly of Shakespeare; she is buried alongside her mother in St Peter's churchyard.

The whole story is on the website www.barfordheritage.org.uk

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BARFORD HERITAGE GROUP:

We are looking for people willing to write up their experiences over this Covid 19 period. These are just as important historically as other reminiscences and will reflect how we felt and how we dealt with this in 50/100 years time. If you like, it’s history in the making.

Anyone willing to get thoughts down on paper please drop them into my porch at 23 Sandy Way or email me at wendy.barlow@tiscali.co.uk . With your permission, we will put them on the Heritage Group website.

Wendy Barlow

Barford Heritage Group have produced a leaflet detailing the history of the Hadley Family

The Hadleys have lived in Barford continuously since 1802. Originally living in Bridge Street where they ran the butchers shop and post office, part of the family then started farming in Wasperton Lane.

The leaflet refers to Census records but what makes it more interesting are the reminiscences of various Hadley family members, giving a fascinating insight into their family life. It starts with George Hadley, recorded in 1929 when was aged 93, referring to memories of what life was like in Barford. Then follows Tony Hadley describing how the farm was developed, as well as his wartime memories. The farm is still run by part of the family today and they helped with some of the details. Finally another family descendent, Jan Bradley who still lives in the village, brings the family history up to date with her own reminiscences.

A worthwhile read about life in the Hadley family over the last two centuries.

Copies can be purchased from Doug Warne for £1
Telephone: 01926 624206

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BARFORD POST OFFICE:

Barford Post Office still needs to recruit another person to continue running a five day a week service. For some reason there has been a drop in people applying for Sub-Postmaster jobs but this will not affect a part-time voluntary post in Barford.

If you want more information please contact me on 01926 624434.

Also, we are making a couple of minor changes to improve our service:

• There has been an increase in Counterfeit notes recently so we have been checking the UV security mark on each note. This has caused delays so we will now only accept cash deposits over £200 by prior arrangement.

• Non value Stamps e.g. 1st class, 2nd large etc should only be used as full payment for posting letters. The process for accepting parcels with these stamps attached is time consuming so these parcels will not be accepted in future.

BANKING :
Has your bank closed? You will find many banking facilities at the Post Office:

• Withdraw money
• Get change
• Pay in cash/cheques
• Pay bills
• Collect foreign currency

Try out your LOCAL Banking Service!

Rod Scott
Sub-Postmaster
01926 624434

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THE CHILDREN'S SOCIETY :

A big thank you to the eight Children’s Society’s collection box holders who contributed a total of £120.97 towards the Society this year.

Funds raised are vital in helping towards the society’s mission of supporting disadvantaged children and young people. Last year they worked with over 18,000 vulnerable children and young people, bringing life-changing support through their services around the country. This includes helping families trapped in poverty and debt, providing support to young carers and combating the evils of child sexual exploitation.

I have a number of spare boxes so if anyone would like to contribute their loose change to this worthwhile cause, do please let me know.

Jo Burman

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SILVER LINE :

The Silver Line is a helpline for older people that offers information, friendship and advice 24 hours day, 365 days a year.

Originally founded by Dame Esther Rantzen, it is the only national, free and confidential helpline for older people in the UK. The Silver Line also offers telephone and letter befriending by matching up a Silver Liner to a volunteer for regular conversation. So if anyone is lying awake at night, feeling lonely at anytime or is worried about a problem that they have and think that a chat with someone friendly who cares might help, please call The Silver Line on 0800 4 70 80 90

Click here for the Silver Liner website.

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ECO WORKSHOP :

Thank you to all who kindly drop off items for our workshop in my porch at 27 High Street.

Important Notice :
We no longer require any plastic bottles or white envelopes. But we do want:-

- Coloured envelopes with or without stamps.
- Drink cans
- Printer cartridges
- Round or square tea bags (dried)

Many thanks

Hilary Rhead

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FOR A SAFER HOME :

For a safer home, Warwickshire Trading Standards is urging consumers to register their fridges, washing machines and other white goods with the new domestic appliance registration scheme.

Domestic appliances have never been safer. However, as appliances become older, unforeseen faults can appear and these sometimes require the manufacturer to repair or recall the product.

A new web portal now provides access to the registration pages of 47 leading brands of domestic appliances: www.registermyappliance.org.uk

If then a manufacturer identifies a fault with a product which requires a repair or product recall, consumers can be quickly contacted.

The information consumers provide will only be used to notify them of product recalls and safety notices. The information cannot be shared or used for marketing purposes without their express consent.

Supported by Government and RoSPA.

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BARFORD AUDIO BOOKS :

Barford Audio Books is a non-commercial, non-profit and ad-free project; providing a small quantity of high quality free audio books for anyone to listen to on their computer, MP3 player etc., or to download and burn to a CD so that you can listen to them whenever you wish, at absolutely no cost to you. Our books have been recorded mainly by volunteers from the Barford Drama Group, which enables us to provide totally free audio books. You don’t even have to register, but please do join the Library so we can advise you of our latest recording.

We do have access to over 50,000 eBooks from Project Gutenberg and we are always looking for suggestions so if you would like us to record a specific Project Gutenberg eBook then please do suggest it using the form on the Contacts page, we look forward to hearing from you; although we obviously can’t guarantee recording it for you.

We generally only use Project Gutenberg eBooks as our source material as all their books are in the public domain and are no longer covered by copyright law, i.e., the copyright has expired. We believe therefore that all our recordings are also no longer covered by copyright law, however because of the nature of the internet, please do check before listening to or downloading or redistributing our audio books that they are out of copyright in your country. Please join this free library by visiting: Barford Audio Books.

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BRUNSWICK DEMENTIA CAFÉ :

A friendly, relaxed and supportive group for people with Dementia and their Carers to enjoy together. Refreshments and fun activities to share. Meet people who understand your experiences. Trained volunteers on hand to chat and provide support. Information and advice available.

WHERE: Brunswick Hub, 98-100 Shrubland Street, Leamington Spa CV31 3BD

WHEN: Fortnightly on Wednesdays, 11:00am to 1:00pm.

COST: Free of charge

For more information, please contact Hilary on 01926 422123

Click here for the website.

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WARWICKSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL COMMUNITY SAFETY TEAM :

Beware of offenders targeting homes of elderly residents saying that there is a problem with damp and drains. 

We have received information from other UK Police Forces about incidents, which have occurred across their areas, whereby white male offenders have targeted the homes of elderly residents. The males have typically called at the homes of elderly and vulnerable people and have told them that they have a problem with damp in their house, or with their drains. They then say that they will need to hire equipment, such as a dehumidifier or pump, to rectify the problem and ask for payment up front for the hire of this equipment.

There have been no recorded incidents of this happening in Warwickshire so far but we are making you aware in case it does spread this way. Please make elderly relatives and neighbours aware that this is happening and ask them to turn the callers away empty handed and contact Police on 101 if they are approached in this way. Warn them never to hand over any cash to strangers at the door and, if possible, not to answer the door to anyone they do not know or are not expecting.

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OLDHAM’S BANK
RIVERSIDE WALK AND COMMUNITY ORCHARD :

The Community Orchard on Oldhams Bank is such a spirit lifter at the moment. Apart from blossoming plums there are fat buds on all but 2 of the other fruit varieties. It was inevitable that we would lose some of our young trees as we were never sure what lies under the ground on the plot but we have managed to keep most of them healthy. Thanks go to Margaret and Neville Woods this year for their excellent care and pruning.

Have a look at our Starter Beehive! The bees have been doing well in the warm days over the last weeks.

Please keep enjoying this lovely community facility!

Wendy Barlow
May 2020

In 2011 the Community Orchard was planted up on Oldham’s Bank by some enthusiastic villagers. Under the watchful eye of Gareth Davies, working for the LEADER programme, we planted 25 fruit trees. These were important in that they were chosen as local historic varieties and have great names such as the Warwickshire Drooper plum, Blenheim Orange apple, Meeches Prolific Quince, Winter Nellis Pear and a Mulberry (species unknown).

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BARFORD BEGINNERS PLAYGROUP :

Barford Memorial Hall on Thursday mornings at 9.30am – 11.00am (term time only)

A friendly village playgroup.

Great selection of toddler toys and ride-ons.
Special baby area.
Regular craft activities.
Healthy snack for little ones.
Tea, coffee and biscuits for grown-ups.
Fun action song session at the end.

£3.00 per family per session.

Come and join us!

Every Thursday morning during term time.

Contact Barford Beginners on 07921 083142 for more information.

Click here for webpage.

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KEEP FIT FOR LADIES :

A small but enthusiastic band of ladies meet on Monday mornings at 9.30am in Barford Memorial Hall to do a gentle keep fit class which last for about 30 minutes.

If you would like to join us please contact Helen Clay 624028 for more information.

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ARE YOU LOOKING FOR ACTIVITIES, ADVICE OR SERVICES? :

The Warwickshire Directory is aimed at helping people find information about local organisations, groups and agencies that provide activities, advice, services and support.

Information and advice is an essential part to enabling people, carers and families to take control of, and make well-informed choices about, their care and support.

Please visit the Directory online at www.warwickshire.gov.uk/directory.

We are committed to continually improving the range of information, advice and services available to people online.

Do you run a local activity or service?

Are you listed on the Warwickshire Directory? If not, we want to hear from you. The Directory could be a great way of promoting your service to a wider audience for free.

To get listed, please contact the Directory Team by emailing directory@warwickshire.gov.uk or by calling us on 01926 742604.

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BARFORD NEIGHBOURHOOD DEVELOPMENT PLAN :

The submission version of the Plan has been completed and can be downloaded from the BNDP webpage.

Click here for full details. .

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CALLING ALL DRIVERS… :

Back & 4th Community Transport is based at Warwick University Campus (HRI), Wellesbourne and provides minibus hire for residents of South Warwickshire. We are looking for extra volunteer drivers to take our passengers out and about in the local area and further afield, so if you have some time to spare and are interested in joining our team please give us a call.

You need to be between 25 and 70 years of age and we ask that volunteers complete a minimum of one drive per month for us. Apart from that our requirements are flexible to suit your availability.

Full training to MiDAS (Minibus Drivers’ Awareness Standards) is provided as well as all out of pocket expenses. An enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check is completed for all volunteer drivers.

We also need volunteers to help out with other tasks including assisting people on a journey and with their supermarket shopping so if you have some spare time and would like to help the local community, please contact Kate Skinner on 01789 471595 for further information.

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LEAMINGTON AND DISTRICT PARKINSON'S SOCIETY :

Together with donations from Barford Ladies Guild and other sources, and money raising that we do ourselves, we can also offer three weekly sessions of Physiotherapy on a Monday and also Hydrotherapy twice a month. These are all with specialist therapists who can target the main problems.

As a Society we provide monthly meetings for information, companionship and entertainment. We also have social outings and an annual holiday.

If anyone would like to know anything further, or know of anyone we could help, please contact Eileen Field 01926 624431.

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BARFORD VILLAGE PLANNING DIARY:

For those of you organising events in advance you might not be aware that there is an on-line Village Diary that you can use to see if there is already an event planned in the village at the time you have chosen. It also provides a 'What's On' diary visible to everyone.

The diary is accessible from the home page of the Barford Community Website (barford.org.uk) via the red button 'Planning Diary' on the left side..

OBVIOUSLY it will only work if every event organiser tells me the date of their event as soon it is fixed !!

New entries can be made by sending me an email ::kenhope@barford.org.uk or via

www.barford.org.uk/diary

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ECO WORKSHOP :

ECO (Enterprise Community Opportunity) Workshop, a Stratford-based organisation that helps adults with autism and learning disabilities get valuable work experience and gain new skills, need greeting card envelopes, postage stamps, empty drinks cans, old gardening hand tools, empty plastic Coca Cola bottles, empty printer cartridges.

Items can be left in separate bags please in the porch at 27 High Street, Barford.

Click here for flyer (PDF)

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CSW BROADBAND NEWS :
Bringing faster broadband to your area
(Updated October 2023)

THOUSANDS STILL TO ORDER A BETTER BROADBAND SERVICE AFTER CSW PROJECT UPGRADES

Thousands of households and businesses across the CSW region may be missing out on the better broadband connectivity we have provided because they haven’t yet ordered an improved service.

Fast and reliable digital connectivity is no longer seen as a luxury but a necessity given its increasing importance to nearly everything we do in modern day life. For example, with a better broadband connection, you can:

- Browse the web faster and carry out online tasks such as shopping and internet banking more easily

- Stream HD films, TV and video services without delay

- Chat face-to-face with friends and family – wherever they are in the world

- Run multiple devices at the same time without your connection slowing down

- Work and study from home more easily

- Engage with services that are increasingly moving online

- Compete more effectively with other businesses in an increasingly competitive global market place.

We realise that some of you who want to order an improved service can’t at this moment in time because your connection hasn’t yet been upgraded.

However, the more households and businesses who have been upgraded that we can get to order an improved service, the more money that comes back into the project, meaning that we can then look into providing solutions for those still waiting for better connectivity.

To find out if you can order an improved service, enter your landline number or address into the BT Broadband Availability Checker . Our How to use the BT Broadband Availability Checker webpage will help you make sense of the Broadband Checker results.

Broadband comparison sites such as MoneySavingExpert.com , Broadband Choices , Compare the Market , BroadbandProviders or uSwitch can help you find a broadband package to suit your needs.

For more general information : cswbroadband.org.uk

Social Media:
SFBarford on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BarfordSuperfastBroadband

CSW on Facebook -  https://www.facebook.com/CSWSuperfastBroadband 
Twitter -  https://twitter.com#!/cswbroadband 

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TUESDAY CAFÉ :
Tuesday Morning Coffee Group
(Updated November 2024)

The Cafe is open every Tuesday morning between 10:30am and 12 noon, serving coffee, tea and homemade scones & cakes.

There is no charge but a suitable donation to cover the costs
(venue hire and catering expenses) is much appreciated.

The Cafe meets in the new Youth and Community Centre.

For more info, contact:
Wendy Barlow 624296
Alex Farr 620117

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HELP NEEDED :

As many of you who walk the Oldhams bank, Millennium Walk and Community Orchard know, it takes a bit of maintenance to keep it open and free from brambles etc.

If there are any villagers out there who could help with this a few times a year I would love to hear from you. The small group who are currently doing it are getting no younger though we would like to think we are mere striplings!

Please contact Wendy Barlow on 624296 or .

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COULD YOU GIVE A HOME TO A GUIDE DOG PUPPY? :

Could you give a home to a Guide Dog Puppy and be part of something amazing?

Guide Dogs are urgently looking for new volunteers to help train and socialize some of their puppies, a role known as Puppy Walking.

These crucial volunteers provide the full-time care and education of a puppy from seven weeks of age until they are between 12 and 14 months old, when the puppies return to Guide Dogs to begin their formal training.

Penny Hefferan, Volunteer Consultant for Guide Dogs and herself a Guide dog owner says, “Our puppy walkers play an essential role - if we don’t have puppy walkers, we don’t have Guide Dogs. “The role is challenging and it’s a real commitment to take a puppy into your home for a year, but it’s extremely enjoyable, rewarding and worthwhile in raising a dog who regain their independence and rebuild their lives.

Puppy Walkers need to be at home for the majority of the day so that the pup is not left alone for long periods of time. Alternatively, individuals provide joint care with a family member or friend, or take the puppy with them to a suitable work environment. Access to a car is required, plus suitable accommodation with a securely fenced yard or garden. Guide Dogs provides full training and support, supplies basic equipment and pays all veterinary and feeding expenses.

Lyn is a volunteer for Guide dogs and is currently looking after her second puppy Isaac. She says, “I have really enjoyed being a puppy walker and have loved all the new experiences it has given me. Both my puppies have been very different and it’s been wonderful to watch them grow and gain in confidence. I’d recommend it to anyone who has the time to care for a dog but wants to do something special at the same time”.

For further information about this and other volunteering opportunities with Guide Dogs, please call Penny Hefferan on 07881 269586 or

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COMMUNITY TRANSPORT :

Back and 4th Transport provides accessible transport to the community and not for profit groups in the South Warwickshire area.

We are always looking to recruit volunteer minibus drivers for our community transport projects.

Volunteers will be subject to a satisfactory DBS check and will be based at our offices in Wellesbourne. Full training will be provided and all out of pocket expenses will be paid

If you are a friendly and sociable person with some spare time and enjoy helping others, please contact Gareth Jones on 01789 471595 or click here to visit our website

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BARFORD COMMUNITY CHARITY :

Barford Community Charity exists to support the local communities of Barford, Wasperton and Sherbourne as detailed in last month’s Village Voices. To date we have given money for a number of village facilities, including a major contribution to King George’s Field.

In these troubled times we would like people to be aware that under its Terms of Reference, Barford Community Charity is also able to support people in local businesses. For example, the charity can provide financial assistance, technical assistance, business advice or consultancy in order to provide training and employment opportunities for unemployed people. In other cases, we can assist in setting up new businesses, or supporting existing businesses.

There needs to be a clear benefit to the communities of Barford, Wasperton and Sherbourne from the help provided, which could be in the form of providing employment opportunities to residents or in delivering a service or facilities to the parishes.

If you would like to explore making an application for support, please contact the Chair of the Trustees, John Barrott on 01926 624766 or jbarrott17@gmail.com

The Charity can also be used as a temporary repository for charitable funds raised in the villages and as a Charity we are usually able to reclaim Gift Aid on such funds. In particular we facilitate use of Barford Village Shop profits for community benefit in a tax-efficient manner.

We remain in touch with representatives from the Scouts and Guides Supporters’ Group and continue to explore how we might be able to help them with their funding campaign, and pledged £20,000 against the initial proposals, with a commitment to consider further funding as the project progresses. We await full details of the latest iteration of the plans, which will shortly go forward for Planning Permission and other funding applications.

During the year we were approached to consider funding the Sand & Gravel campaign, and whilst all trustees were sympathetic to the cause we were unable to give direct assistance due to limitations in our “charitable objects” and also due to the “political” nature of the campaign. The approach did however make us reflect that currently we could not support environmental initiatives and it was felt that this could be desirable and appropriate.

Trustees also felt that we received fewer applications than we might reasonably expect and there was a perception that we only dealt with major schemes which is not the situation. We have therefore spent some time exploring our objects and their implementation and after discussions with the Charity Commission have made some minor changes to our objects, such that we can now consider applications for “protection or conservation of the environment” and we have also added a “catch-all” clause “such other matters as may be determined subject to the written prior consent of the Charity Commissioners for England and Wales” which will allow us some flexibility to consider any unexpected applications without need to revisit changing our objects, all of course subject to demonstrable community benefit.

Funds remain available for eligible applications with clear community benefit. We have a standard application form and expect clear explanations of your project with statements of costs and benefits along with appropriate financial evidence of the funding requirement. Approaches can be made to the current Chair John Murphy ( jvm@jvmurphy.co.uk) or to any of the Trustees:
Alison Gadsden
Liz Harrison-Hall
Sue Jessett
Mary Peirson
Alan Rhead.

Trustee service is on a three year cycle and if you would be interested in serving as a charity trustee then we would be pleased to hear from you and will always try to have a board representing the full geography and demography of our villages.

Contact details for Barford Charities:
BARFORD ST PETER’S SCHOOL TRUST - The contact is the Trust's Secretary, Helen Clay 624028.

BARFORD RELIEF IN NEED CHARITY TRUST The contact is Mr Rob Mulgrue, 624285.

BARFORD COMMUNITY CHARITY . The contact is Mr John Barrott, 624766.

Please be assured that all enquires to any of these charities are treated with complete discretion and confidentiality.

Remember they are there to help!

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WRCC COMMUNITY CARS :

Do you have a few hours to spare each week?

WRCC Community Cars (formerly Warwick Health Transport) need some help in their Wellesbourne office on a Wednesday morning between 10.00h and 13.00h (Other days possible).

We are looking for an organised and patient person with a pleasant telephone manner who is comfortable using a computer to take bookings from users of our volunteer car scheme.

This is a voluntary role but mileage expenses to and from home will be paid (currently 45p per mile).

To find out more please phone 01789 471595

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WARWICKSHIRE DIRECT WEBSITE :

I would like to draw your attention to the following webpage at the Warwickshire Direct website: www.warwickshire.gov.uk/scams

This regularly updated webpage provides information about current scams in operation, alongside advice on what to do if you think you come across a scam. If you are particularly concerned about scams, please do visit the website for information on how to protect yourself.

Anita Kendall
Area Support Officer
Community Partnership Team

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"BECOMING BARFORD" :

Barford Heritage Group’s book, "Becoming Barford - The story of a Warwickshire Village".

The full colour publication traces the development of the village from a small Anglo-Saxon settlement to the 1960s using over 200 pictures and many reminiscences.

The book is now on sale in Barford Village Shop, price was £12.99, now £9.99.

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PLAYBOX THEATRE :

Playbox Theatre is one of the UK's leading theatre companies working exclusively with, and for, children and young people aged between 3-19 yrs. The home of Playbox is a beautiful arts complex, The Dream Factory, in Warwick and it is here that workshops, holiday courses and productions take place.

Playbox also has centres across the region, including Stratford-upon-Avon, at Cox's Yard by The River Avon. The company's mission is to develop the imagination, confidence and self-esteem of every young person we work with. Our members have the opportunity to explore a range of performing arts, including mime, movement, voice, film, circus, dance, musical theatre and Shakespeare.

All members take part in weekly training workshops, and every young person has regular opportunities to appear in major productions.

If you would like to know more about Playbox Theatre, please call Emily on 01926 419555 ext.3 or . Lots more information can be found on our website.

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LOVEBALLET DANCE COMPANY :

LoveBallet's Show raises thousands for local charities

Over 250 pupils from the leading dance school LoveBallet Dance Company have recently danced their socks off to raise over £3000 for 2 wonderful local charities in their dance show "Peter Pan" which was held in July in Leamington Spa. Children and adults from 3 yrs to 70 yrs danced in the show to raise funds for Dogs for Good (Banbury) and the Children’s Air Ambulance (Based in Warwickshire).

LoveBallet Dance Company offers lessons across Warwickshire, Oxfordshire and Northamptonshire, with their own purpose built studios in Southam, but also other venues across the county too.

We look forward to a seeing our pupils and welcoming new faces too into our LoveBallet Family in September after the summer break. We have exams in the Autumn coming up and a performance at the Royal Albert Hall in London next year too, exciting time.

Details of all our classes are on our website www.loveballet.co.uk

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EMAIL UPDATES FROM THE JPC :

Chairman’s Chatter can often send out timely reminders, updates and notices direct to your in boxes. If you do not already receive these from John Murphy AND WOULD LIKE TO DO SO so that you can be added to the circulation list.

The list will not be shared with others, will be sent out as Bcc (so not revealing your email) and will only be used for matters which should reasonably interest/ concern you.

It’s free, easy and just occasionally is the only way to get urgent things out to a wider audience – and you can always hit DELETE or ask to be unsubscribed.

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FINANCIAL HELP FOR LOCAL STUDENTS :

The Hampton Lucy Grammar School Foundation is an educational charity which provides grants to young people under 25 years of age who live in the parishes of Hampton Lucy, Charlecote, Wasperton and Alveston and who may be at school or in further or higher education or other training programs.

The Trustees consider applications very carefully and, as well as assisting individuals in meeting educational costs, make grants to local schools.

The Trustees would like to hear from parents and from young people who may be in financial need. Provided applicants meet the relevant criteria, the Trustees may award a grant or a series of grants towards the provision of education, training, additional classes or equipment e.g. for music, art, dance, or sports, as well as help towards college or university.

Requests for Grant Application Forms and other enquiries should be sent to the Clerk to the Trustees, Hampton Lucy Grammar School Foundation, Highdown House, 11 Highdown Road, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV31 1XT.

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VILLAGE PUBLIC ACCESS DEFIBRILLATOR :

Thanks to the generosity of Barford Parish Council, a Public Access Defibrillator (PAD) was installed in the car park of the Village Shop late in 2011.

This PAD is for use by people who have not been trained in CPR or other first aid procedures when it seems that a person’s heart has stopped, and it complements the work of our trained First Responders. The PAD provides step-by-step vocal prompts so that it can be used by any responsible person.

Should there be an emergency you should still dial 999 and, if there is no First Responder on duty, you will be directed by the emergency services to the PAD with instructions on how to access it. Don’t worry that you won’t know what to do or may do harm; when you open the box a voice gives you clear verbal instructions. If it is not a cardiac arrest, the machine will prompt you not to deliver any shocks.

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BARFORD RELIEF IN NEED CHARITY:

Don’t be put off by our name (it’s an historical title that we’ve inherited!), we really want to help you!

The Charity operates only for the benefit of residents of Barford, Sherbourne and Wasperton and within its terms of reference we have been able to help many residents who have needed some financial support (generally short-term) to help them get on with life. This may have been with temporary financial difficulties or unexpected costs, extra spending arising from ill-health or disability, the opportunity to improve finances and prospects through a study course, training or an educational experience. We are more interested in the benefits than the cost!

If some short-term financial help would enable you to ‘get ahead’ or ‘get back on track’ do get in touch with :

To make an application for help from the Trust you need to reside in Barford, Sherbourne or Wasperton and apply to The Clerk to the Trust, Mr Rob Mulgrue, phone 624285 or the Chairman, John Barrott, phone 624766.

Please be assured that all enquires are treated with complete discretion and confidentiality.

With thanks
John Barrott
Chairman

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WHP CHARITABLE TRUST:

Barford, Sherbourne and Wasperton residents living with ill health or injury are being urged to apply for financial assistance to help alleviate their pain and discomfort.

The call comes from the WPH Charitable Trust – a Warwickshire-based body of trustees made up of medical and non-medical professionals – which distributes some £250,000 of financial aid across Coventry and Warwickshire every year.

Individuals and organisations who work towards preventing, relieving and curing ill health are also among those urged to apply.

Grants are also given to community and private projects in the area which aim to improve the lives or quality of life of people battling ill health or injury.

Recent grants include £1,500 for a mobility scooter for a 51-year-old mother who would otherwise find it difficult to get out and about, and £2,000 to a 73-year-old pensioner for a stairlift in his own home. Also, £1,500 towards a project teaching people with mental health issues how to cook and eat healthily, and £1,500 towards a recycling social enterprise project which creates volunteering opportunities for people with learning difficulties or disabilities, who may otherwise find it difficult to find employment.

The criteria for eligibility for a wide range of needs, from research into new technologies to the provision of equipment for personal need. The Trust supports new buildings for hospitals and schools helping with provision of special educational facilities, disabled funding, and access improvements.

David Holt is Chairman of the WPH Charitable Trust trustees. He said: “Whether your application is for an amount large or small, the aim of the WPH Charitable Trust is to offer financial assistance towards projects and equipment which are of benefit to the lives of people.

“If you think you may qualify for assistance, the WPH Charitable Trust actively encourages you to get in touch.”

The Trust was established in 1994 and since then thousands of people across the area have benefited directly or indirectly from Trust funds. For further information, or to make an application, visit the WPH Charitable Trust website :

http://www.warwickshirehealthcharity.org.uk/

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RAMBLERS :

When you are out walking have you ever come across an obstructed path, a broken stile or even a sign saying ‘keep out’?

These types of problem should first be reported to the Rights of Way Officer at either the county or unitary council  responsible for the place where the problem occurred. These officers should then take action to ensure that the problem is rectified.

But you can also report these problems to us, either by using our  path problem report form  or via our facebook tool. We will pass the information you provide onto a local Ramblers volunteer who will investigate further.

Many thanks,

Rachel Alcock
Campaigns Officer

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SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING :

After almost 20 years of Barford Scottish Country Dancing in the Memorial Hall, we have decided to end our meetings on Friday evenings due to falling numbers. This was extremely frustrating for our wonderful and patient teacher Margaret Baker who over the years has been our guiding light.

I would like to thank all the Barford, Warwick & Leamington dancers for their support over the years. Some from the early years to those who joined more recently. We have had tremendous fun and the trips north to Crieff on several occasions were memorable.

Please note anyone who wishes to continue their skills with Scottish Country Dancing with Margaret’s expert tuition can do so on Thursday evenings in Leamington Spa. Please contact me for further details and we might be able to arrange a car rota.

Hilary Rhead

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RIVER AVON –WASPERTON :

Whilst walking my dog recently near the river in Wasperton, I noticed a swan, which looked very unwell and I wanted to do something to help it.

After a little research online I discovered Wychbold Swan Rescue, a registered charity, and called them to see if they could help.

They came along and rescued the stricken swan and I have now heard that they have managed to dislodge the fishing hook and line, which was stuck in the poor creature’s throat and the swan is making a good recovery at their Sanctuary near Droitwich. Once it is well enough they will release it back to its natural habitat.

They have given permission for their contact details to be published, should anyone else need to contact them.

Click here for their website.

Angela Chambers

A resident from Sherbourne reports:

We found a swan with a broken wing on the Avon near Sherbourne. Thanks to the information on the website and in Plurality we were able to ring Wychbold Swan Rescue and they came to collect the injured pen and also took her mate. She has now had the infected wing removed and is doing well; her mate is very attentive to her!

Thank you to the Wasperton resident who alerted readers to the Wychbold Swan Rescue.

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KNOW YOUR RIGHTS -
ADVICE FROM WARWICKSHIRE TRADING STANDARDS:

Take Care When Switching Energy Suppliers

Warwickshire County Council Trading Standards has had reports of "rogue" energy sellers operating locally who will say anything to gain access to your property. One claimed to be a "council home energy surveyor"; another claimed that he had been sent out to check meters in the area because of a report of "overcharging on tariffs" and carried a device similar to those used to record meter readings; a third claimed that the gas and electricity meter had been mis-calibrated.

New rules introduced this year to protect consumers state that:

• Salespeople must carry a badge giving their name and that of the company

• They must give you a written quotation before the sale goes through

• If you have a pre payment meter you can now owe up to £200 and be able to switch

Trading Standards advises:

If you really want to do business on the doorstep, do not switch on the first visit - get the written quotation and then check out whether it really is a better deal by using a price comparison website e.g. TheEnergyShop.com

If it really is better for you, arrange for the agent to call back at a later date to suit you.

For more advice on problems with shopping or buying services, contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.

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NEED A BREAK FROM CARING? :

Caring for older people is often rewarding – but it can be tiring too. Whether you are a live-in carer or whether you just keep an eye on an elderly relative, you cannot do it 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Jephson Plus, Sheltered Housing Service offer short term respite care (not nursing or personal care) in Huntley Lodge, a sheltered housing scheme in Leamington Spa. A stay here can be a good way to find out what it is like to live in sheltered housing.

The charge for a week at Huntley Lodge is £299. This includes all meals, electricity, heating, hot water and social activities.

To find out more or arrange a visit, please call Liz on 01926 313838.

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WELLESBOURNE HOUSEHOLD WASTE AND RECYCLING CENTRE :

Opening hours may vary during holiday periods. This recycling centre is closed bank holidays.

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LEAMINGTON & DISTRICT PARKINSON'S DISEASE SOCIETY :

Meetings on the second Monday of the month 2.00pm to 4.00pm at Sydni Centre, Marloes Walk, Sydenham.

Contact Secretary 01926 853023
Freephone Helpline 0808 800 0303

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BARFORD ALLOTMENTS :

Can you dig it?

Allotments are proving extremely popular these days, and Barford is fortunate in having two allotment areas.

Unusually, we have a small number of our allotments available at the moment. Initially we are offering these to new tenants. If you are interested please contact Jane Stamp (624084). Rents are £30 per year per unit payable in advance.

Contact for the Parish Council allotments is Roger Clay on    01926 624028

Contact for the Church Allotments is Jane Stamp on 01926 624084.

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VOLUNTARY DRIVERS SCHEME :

A small number of people have generously offered to act as drivers for those in the three parishes who find themselves in difficulty in reaching hospital, doctors, dentists, chemists and in emergency situations.

Should you need some help, please telephone me and we will try very hard to find someone who is able to offer transport. It may not always be possible but we will do our best.

Barbara Winstone 624595

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COMPOST AT HOME :

Warwickshire County Council is part of a nationwide "Compost at Home" campaign. The campaign encourages residents to transform their kitchen and garden waste into nutrient-rich compost for a blooming garden.

Residents are being encouraged to put their compostable kitchen and garden waste to good use by ordering one of the scheme’s subsidised compost bins. The Council have teamed up with WRAP (the Waste and Resources Action Programme) to provide the bins — along with a free guide to composting and a handy sticker highlighting what can and can’t go in — delivered direct to people’s doors. The Warwickshire scheme will play its part in the nation-wide drive covering 6.5 million households across England and Scotland to promote the recycling of kitchen and garden waste and reduce the amount of rubbish sent to landfill.

Nearly two thirds of kitchen and garden waste can be tipped straight in the compost bin. You might be surprised to discover that it’s not just fruit and vegetable peelings and prunings that can go in either — cardboard, eggshells and teabags make for great compost too. Composting means hugely cutting down on the amount of waste we put out for collection — not to mention a beautiful garden to enjoy as well.

WRAP is helping to provide Warwickshire residents with compost bins starting from £5, including delivery. People eager to start home composting should call 0845 073 2001 to order their bin.

A Home Composting Advisor is working closely with Warwickshire County Council. Local residents can call 0845 600 0323 for advice and information on home composting, or click to visit their website.

For further information contact: Penny Holmes, WRAP 07985 953184 or

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BARFORD BEGINNERS

Parent Baby and Toddler Group

Friendly group meets at Barford Scout Hut 10.00 – 11.30 am every Thursday during school term time.

For more information, call Catherine Steed on 419770 or just drop in on a Thursday.

Click here for more information.

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HEALTH & SAFETY: PEST CONTROL

The following services are provided by the Environmental Health Department at Warwick District Council:

Rats: treated free of charge

Bedbugs, fleas, cockroaches, wasps, mice: there is a charge made for these treatments with the exception of those who claim income based benefits, or half price for those receiving state pensions, proof of which will need to be seen by the Pest Control Operator.

Pests not treated: bees, bats, squirrels, wild cats, rabbits, foxes, ants and other insect pests. However, advice can be given.

For further information, telephone 01926 450000 for service or 01926 456705 for advice, or log onto www.warwickdc.gov.uk

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BARFORD E-MAIL ADDRESS

Did you know you could have your own Barford e-mail address, for example johnsmith@barford.org.uk

The cost is a very reasonable £10 for two years.

E-mails received at your Barford e-mail address can be forwarded on to any existing e-mail address that you already have, and this forwarding can be changed at any time at no cost. This would give you the flexibility to change your internet service provider (ISP) without needing to change your e-mail address. Alternatively, you can use the Barford e-mail address directly, by setting up an e-mail account in Outlook for example.

The website has recently moved to a new hosting service, and we can provide an improved service with effective spam protection.

Phone Keith Roberts on (07748) 644515, or e-mail the Website Group via the Contact Us page, for full details.

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HELPLINE NUMBERS

The following phone numbers may be useful:

Environmental Crime Hotline, for reporting abandoned vehicles, fly tipping, refuse and recycling issues:

Phone: (01926) 456339
Fax: (01926) 456753

Click here to email environmental problems to Warwick District Council.

Reporting fly-posting on street furniture (lampposts, benches etc): (01926) 412525
Reporting fly-posting on WDC property: (01926) 416523
Reporting graffiti on WDC property: (01926) 456031

Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111


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THE RURAL HOUSEBOUND SERVICE:

The Rural Housebound Service is a partnership between the Warwickshire Library and Information Service and Age Concern Warwickshire. It offers a free library service to housebound people living in rural areas of the county. A team of thirty volunteers assist with the selection of books and their delivery to readers throughout the county.

If you live within rural Warwickshire, do not have access to transport or do not have family or friends who can regularly exchange library books for you and you are unable to visit your local library or mobile library, you will qualify for this service. Two volunteers will visit your home once a month, bringing a selection of books, stories on tape, music cassettes or jigsaws. You may request any item free of charge and we can also help you with any information enquiries.

This is a free service. If you think you are eligible for this service or know of someone who might benefit from receiving it, please contact: Debbie Sly, Rural Housebound Service, Kenilworth Library, 11 Smalley Place, Kenilworth CV8 1QG, call (01926) 851031 or click here for the website.

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