|
|
|
|
|
|
News from January 2002 to end June 2002 News for period ending 30th June 2002 NEW HEALTH CENTRE OPENS Patients who booked appointments for this week will be able to experience the new premises at first hand, while the rest of us admire from a distance. After a busy busy weekend, the staff will begin the new regime on Monday. We wish everyone connected with the new venture all the very best, and congratulate those who worked so hard to bring it about. We also hope that the demolition work still to do to facilitate parking will proceed with the utmost speed!
FOOTBALL FURORE IN MILFORD The local football furore has nothing to do with the drama of England v Brazil, but in its way has caused a relatively similar amount of angst in the Shore Close/Overstrand Crescent corner of the village. Alex Hall, aware how the young are frowned on for their desire to play footie on any space of grass, requested permission of the Secretary of Overstrand Crescent homes to do so, which was given. As their little game progressed, they were amazed to see a group of elderly residents peering at them, one wielding a camera. To the young people's concern, there was no sign of friendliness from the senior generation, which they found very intimidating. Many people who were born 70 to 80 years or so ago are somewhat scared of what appears to be the aggressive young - mainly thanks to the constant yammering of the media on the baddies. It doesn't often occur to them that the young feel pretty much the same. A smile and a friendly greeting between the two groups could have sorted out the problem without the angst it seems to have caused. There was goodwill on the side of the young in the first place who had bothered to ask permission from the person they took to be able to give it to them. Perhaps the old do tend to forget what they were like when they were young, and maybe they might consider offering tips on how to play better....anything to build up a good relationship.
JULIE BROMILEY CREEPS QUIETLY AWAY... ...in the middle of the Jubilee celebrations notices appeared in the windows of this much-loved Milford shop proclaiming 'Retirement Sale' and early this week the furniture vans were poised outside the double-fronted shop removing the remains as the new Health Centre opened. The village had a chaotic appearance with Sea Road being dug up, more maintenance vehicles again around the ex-site of the George & Mary lamp post and the Post Office cocooned in scaffolding while improvements were being made. We are very sorry to see this fashion shop go, a shop which has served the village with style at prices we could afford for many years, and we wish Julie all the very best in her retirement. We also hope that the premises won't remain shut and uninteresting for very long! There will be an article next week on the joys of the new Health Centre which looks so glamorous that the staff are wondering whether they need new wardrobes to look as smart!
Urgent Warning: It is not our normal practice to do this. We recently received an 'email' entitled 'Congratulations'. Although there was no reason to receive such mail, one of our staff was optimistic enough to open it, and the result was an instant worm-type virus which corrupted a large amount of the system. It has cost us £150 to clean everything away, we have lost a couple of very important files and suffered huge inconvenience. This incident has made us much more vigilant about opening anything. The reason for putting up this warning is that at this time of year, when congratulations are the norm after all the exams, watch out for anything with an attachment marked 'Congratulations!' These 'Congratulations' e-mails are still arriving in our post..... Encourage friends to give advance notice if they intend to send any attachment. Do not download unexpected mail with attachments!
Milford residents are invited to breakfast with Desmond Swayne MP at All Saints Church on Saturday 22nd June at 8.30 am. The aim is to raise money by donation for the starving of African and to urge our government to support fairer trade laws. A coach trip is being organised to enable residents of Milford to attend the mass lobby of Parliament on 19th June. Anyone interested in taking part should contact Peter Dawes on 01590 641710. If you are unable to join this group you can help by signing a Trade For Life Action Pledge (available at the back of All Saint's Church) and placing it in the box provided. These pledges will be handed to Desmond Swayne during the Free Breakfast on 22nd June.
POP-IN COFFEE MORNING CELEBRATES THE JUBILEE Regulars were joined by new visitors, some of whom had been gathered enthusiastically from their shopping in the village by Mrs. Sheila Dunn, wife of Rev. Alastair Dunn, to celebrate the Golden Jubilee in style. A lot of rehearsal produced some jolly songs in a concert which opened with a nostalgic look at what the Union-Jack-hatted choir members had been up to in 1952 which brought more than a few laughs from the audience! Red, white and blue predominated and songs and flag-waving almost equalled that spectacular view of members of the public in the Mall! Mrs. Val Culmer read her tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II which did bring a lump to the throat. A copy had been sent to Buckingham Palace by her friend, Mrs. Gina Frank, and a thank you letter had been received almost by return of post. As well as the usual tea and coffee, there was a beautifully decorated cake to eat, and as people left they were presented with packs of golden sweets to enjoy. Mrs. Elizabeth Young extended an invitation to those who were able to, to enjoy her garden which was looking particularly lovely. Amazingly, with so little warmth and sun this year the flowers do seem to be thriving. A good sign for the forthcoming Milford Flower and Produce Show? Congratulations all round to the organisers who succeeded in making a real moment of fun for the Poppers-In which will long be remembered.
MILFORD JUBILEE MUSIC HALL Milford Church Choir and the Milford Women's Institute Drama Group, with the valiant support of the Royal British Legion Women's Section, will present a Music Hall in All Saints' Church Hall on Friday and Saturday, 14th & 15th June at 7.00 pm. Members are now working overtime to perfect their performances. Canon Ray Hubble has agreed to act as Compère, so the audience can be guaranteed to a brilliant, fast-paced and entertaining evening. Tickets, a modest £5 to include Ploughman's and refreshment, are available from Gwens in the High Street. All Proceeds to Charity and A Raffle at each performance will be raising money specifically for Oakhaven Hospice.
News from period ending 11th June 2002
WE CONGRATULATE HER MAJESTY QUEEN
ELIZABETH II How many of us living now, with hand
on heart can say Val Culmer - A Milford-on-Sea Resident
JUBILEE JOLLIFICATIONS ON THIS SPECIAL DAY SERVICE ON THE GREEN Today, Sunday, June 2nd 2002, there was be an open-air service on Milford Green to mark the Jubilee at 4.00 pm and everyone was invited. The weather was kind and the service did not have to be transposed to All Saints' Church. The service was well attended and those who were there will remember it as a moving point in the emotions of the day as people from all denominations took part in the tribute to Queen Elizabeth, celebrating the Golden Jubilee year of her Accession to the Throne, 49 years to the day since her Coronation.
The Jubilee Princess, Becky Brown, was crowned by Mrs. Freda Cheyney MBE at 2.00 pm. At the same time the marquee and stalls opened along with Maypole dancing, Daniela's Dancing Girls, Bouncy Castle, Refreshments in the Village Hall, Side Shows entertained those who braved the rather dull weather and at 3.00 pm there was a trumpet fanfare inviting all children to the Street Party. The Children's Fancy Dress competition was won by a very small coachman pulling a golden coach on his wheeled carthorse and all the runners-up added to the delights of the afternoon. Bobby the Clown made an appearance about the same time as the sun arrived to complete the pleasure of the afternoon. There was a Pig Roast available and a competition was held for the Best Dressed Shop Window, but more of this later. 5.30 pm saw the start of the Disco & Karaoke in the comfort of the marquee and The Green took a little rest until the evenings proceedings started. The Chris Walker Jazz Band and the Disco took turn and turn about and dancing went on with improved weather into the dark of a June evening.
LOCAL COUNCILLOR RESIGNS ON MATTER OF PRINCIPLE John Simmons, one of the most experienced of the Milford-on-Sea Parish Council, will be stepping down from 30th June as he not prepared to sign up to the Government's Code of Conduct. All councils are obliged to sign as a body, although obviously there is an option for individuals. If a council as a whole decline to sign, the council itself will not be allowed to exist. There will be more on this subject in the next few days. Although Mr. Simmons will no longer serve as a councillor, he has agreed to continue the work he has already done as the moving spirit behind the Milford Village Design Statement.
BRIAN GILES PUTS NFDC IN HIS SIGHTS The continuing amazement of the residents of Milford regarding NFDC's planning decisions in respect of the village was underlined by Mr. Giles at the recent Milford Parish Council Meeting held at All Saints' Church Hall. He voiced the concern of many that the NFDC pays little attention, not only to the feelings of local people, but also to any of the letters and protests they make regarding proposed building developments in the area. Mr. Giles expressed the view that many of those involved in the debates in the NFDC chambers had no idea of what things were like in local areas, the implication being they didn't even both to visit them to get to know the places, and that too often they depended on 'agenda papers prepared by the planning department, which all too often contain an incomplete resumé of the relevant facts relating to the application under discussion.' Hear, hear!
MILFORD PLANTS & GARDENS FAIR This annual delight on The Green is not just a pretty face! The takings of just under £1,200 will, after deduction of minimal expenses, be divided between the three charities the Gardening Club have chosen to support this year: Oakhaven Hospice, the local branch of the Multiple Sclerosis Society and 'Thrive'. Most people will not have heard of 'Thrive': it is a recently established national charity which has local projects which work to help physically and mentally disabled people learn gardening skills. Anyone wishing to know more about the Milford Gardeners' Club should ring Liz Bickle on 643949 - and in the meantime, how does your garden grow? Don't forget the Milford Flower and Produce Show on 13th July - schedules available at shops all over the village.
PSST! WANT TO GO TO JAIL? Police are seeking volunteers to check the condition of cells in county jails. Formerly known as 'lay visitors', those people who undertake this work are to be known as Independent Custody Visitors, who had the right to arrive unannounced at any time of day or night to check on conditions under which prisoners are held and to check on the well-being of inmates. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old, and South West Hampshire is one of the areas for which they are sought. No one with any connection to the police or law services is eligible, but other wise there are very few restrictions. Gender, ethnicity, physical disability and English does not have to be a first language. Expenses are payable, and the work is a real service to the community. The appointments are initially for a three-year period but this may be renewed. ContactSharon Jackson on 01962 871595 or write to the ICV Scheme Administrator, Hampshire Police Authority, Westgate Chambers, Staple Gardens, Winchester, SO23 8AW.
WOMAN ATTACKED IN MILFORD Tracy Walker, only recently arrived from America, expected a safe and quiet life in a small English village. She had only been here a week when last Tuesday night, walking home from a friend's house at 11.30 in the evening, she was jumped on by a 6ft man who leapt out from the passageway next to the Chemists, dragged her up the lane and was foiled only by her violent defence. Tracy's kick him floored him and she made her getaway. Her attacker is described as having hairy hands and dirty bitten nails, and at the time of the attack in heavy rain was wearing dark-coloured clothes. Anyone with any information should ring New Milton police on 0845 045 45 45.
MILFORD'S CHILDREN PROUD OF THEIR SCHOOL The recent Ofsted inspection of Milford Primary School underlined the continuing rise in standard in the school in all areas. Both teachers and children and their attitudes were praised. It was the Inspectors' conclusion that almost all the children were interested in learning and because of this applied themselves with enthusiasm to what they were doing in class. All this good work was laid at the door of the teachers, whose high quality of teaching was remarked upon by the Inspectors. The school's new Headmaster, Martin Pitman said that he was delighted with the report and commented how hard both the staff and the children had worked to achieve present standards. Mr. John Seymour, chairman of the Governors of the school, was equally pleased, but pointed out that the improvements since 1997 were based on 'what was already recognized as a top class primary school'.
MILFORD CRICKET There is good news to report this year. Tony Fry, the groundsman par excellence, has done a great deal of hard work to complement the two magnificent artificial practice nets which were purchased with help from a Lottery grant of £5,000. Ready on the Recreation Ground, they are a splendid adjunct to the redecorated pavilion and the new bar to enable a few celebration drinks after a (hopefully successful) match or two. It is hoped that junior coaching will return this summer with a view to establishing a junior team as soon as enough members are enrolled. With the current numbers at Milford Primary School this should not be beyond the bounds of possibility. Hopefully encouragement by parents who would like their children's out-of-home activities to be pointed in some constructive direction will eventually bear fruit. The Cricket Club is also hoping to set up a Veterans' Team for occasional fixtures - and this in an area where many young retirees might have several good sporting years ahead of them. The Club is happy to welcome new members in all categories. For more information call Chris Walford on 674 753 evenings or 01425 273 463 during the day. Alternatively try calling Alan Varley on 01428 623 633 in the evening.
MILFORD-ON-SEA YOUTH FOOTBALL CLUB Practice sessions and games will take place on Sunday mornings on the Recreation Ground in Barnes Lane between 9.30 am and 10.30 am for the next few weeks at least. For further information call Hilary Short on 643136. While trainers have already been appointed there is still room for those who would be happy to help with additional help in training or on the organisational side of the venture.
BIG SCOOP FOR SAVE THE CHILDREN The recent house-house collection for the Save the Children Fund in the Milford area shows that residents have a warm heart, in spite of the many demands made at the door for charities today. Pat Blythe, announcing the grand total of £1,925.31, thanked everyone who had contributed for their generosity, particularly the collectors, whose leg-work had contributed so much. Pat said that they were, in fact, short of collectors. If any readers would care to help in this worthwhile fund-raising work, she would love to be contacted on 645415.
News from week ending 25th May BOGUS CALLERS ON THE INCREASE With the amount of publicity given to the problem of bogus callers via television and the press, it was something of a surprise to many residents to receive the smart professionally designed package comprising folders with inserts covering doorstop selling, fire precautions, details of victim support facilities in the community etc. With lack of funds apparently restricting enlargement of the police forces, such expensive productions do make one wonder. Many households must have already been aware of such problems and solutions before blanket distribution of the material.
News from week ending 18th May PLANT FAIR WELL SUPPORTED There are rumours whizzing round the village that certain residents were up really early this morning to find the best goodies at this year's Plant Fair. In fact they could have lain a-bed for a little longer since the amount of really high-class plants available this year was considerable. This occasion is a really good addition to the seasonal attractions of Milford, and is also a warm-up to the Milford on Sea Flower & Produce Show. The schedules are now available from Gwen's and other outlets, including Everton Post Office, but they are of little use if people haven't bought one and investigated which of their garden plants are gong to yield the produce to exhibit.
MILFORD GRANNY GOES INTO PUBLISHING The loan of a book which turned out to be almost out of print, led to the appearance a year later of the book's publication on the internet. A Milford resident purchased copies from several sources worldwide to give away as gifts to friends. She subsequently investigated republication by the original publishers in Ireland, as well as trying new possibilities without success. The enterprising granny then struck up a friendship with the author, a missionary priest in Zambia, and the result is that to-day, the book is available for free reading and downloading from the internet. When asked why she'd done it, the amateur publisher explained that "I just fell in love with it. Support from all concerned – author, web hosts, copyright holders – has been total. I think it was meant to be."
News from week ending 11th May 2002 FIRST MAY MONDAY FAIR ON THE GREEN The New Forest Players battled valiantly against the gloomy weather on Monday when they presented their Jubilee May Fair. So too did those who braved the drizzle and enjoyed the stalls. The steam-driven music added gaiety to the proceedings, and the Teddy Races had universal appeal. Thanks are due to everyone who worked so hard to make the day a success, except the Sun, who failed to put on his hat and come out to play.
ST. DOMINIC'S PRIORY CHAPEL The appeal for funds to build this chapel started at the end of 1999, and was called the Millennium Chapel Appeal. The nuns of St. Dominic's were looking for £300,000, which they considered might be as much as ten years away, but lo and behold, considerably less than 3 years later they are only £10,000 under target and the framework of the chapel is well in place. It is anticipated that the chapel will be open by the end of this year. At the moment tiles for the roof are going fast at £1! As usual on a Bank Holiday Monday the nuns open their doors to well-wishers for Tea and Cakes and today was no exception. The convent was full almost as soon as the gates opened at 2.00 pm and a brisk trade went ahead in cuppas and a variety of home-made cakes, although sadly it was too wet to enjoy the garden.
GREAT WALL OF CHINA WALK Sally Reed's campaigning for her fund to do the Great Wall of China Walk takes another step on 9th May, when John James will be presenting a Wine Tasting evening in aid of The National Star Centre College for brain-damaged and disabled students. Tickets at £5 to include supper can be obtained from Sally herself by ringing 01590 642917 after 6.00 pm.
News from period ending 4th May 2002 JUST WHEN YOU THOUGHT IT WAS SAFE.... ...to go back into the village centre, they've started to dig up the Green! This afternoon a deep cutting was spotted, complete with men waist-deep inside and mountains of earth along both sides of the massive ditch. A strong smell of gas pervaded the area and a gas van was espied nearby. What is going on? Why pick now, with the tourist season imminent? Not to mention the New Forest Players who have put in a lot of work to ensure fun on the Green for a Jubilee May Day on Monday next! And how long before any of us can drive down to Keyhaven without traffic lights outside the local shops on that road? 4th May Latest: Less than 48 hours after the above appeared on our pages, all evidence - well, nearly all - of the massive digging on the green has been removed. It will look reasonable on Monday when the celebrations take place, although the ground may be a little soft on the Keyhaven corner of the Green. Go carefully, but congratulations are due to the workers. And thanks!
MILFORD-ON-SEA YOUTH FOOTBALL CLUB Milford-on-Sea Youth Football Club got under way on Sunday 21st April at the Recreation Ground in Barnes Lane to the accompaniment of great enthusiasm, 11 organisers - including 5 coaches - as about 30 children between the ages of 5 and 8 arrived to learn the rudiments of the Beautiful Game. The efforts of those who have launched this venture are to be warmly applauded and it can truly be said that Milford Expects.....Good luck to everyone concerned! Practice sessions and games will take place between 9.30 am and 10.30 am for the next few weeks at least.
After more than three weeks intermittent work on reworking the road system at the bottom of Church Hill, the village is still looking a mess. It is unclear whether vehicles travelling from Keyhaven will find it easier to understand what they are suppose to do unless another unsightly arrow is positioned on the 'island'. There is still no sign of the anticipated Zebra crossings, but perhaps they are still to come. The sad thing is that in the middle of the 'island' is something very similar to a lamp post, and if that is what it is going to be, it is a shame that the original George & Mary Lamp post should still be stranded on a pavement too close to a building to view it in any kind of glory. All this might be called progress, but in which direction? Latest: There are signs of an approach of the Zebra. From the pavement outside the Co-op there is a planned path, which starts with a levelled and knobbly patch which presumably is one end of the crossing. The knobs are designed to warn the blind that they are approaching danger, but sadly the knobs do offer something of a hazard to the lame whose steps are unsure and who are liable to trip on the knobs. Well, can't please all of the people all of the time!
News from period ending 27th April 2002 YOUTH CRIME IN THE AREA Several beach huts at Hordle Cliff have been damaged after youths built fires on the beaches. It is heartbreaking for the owners who love their little huts, and any information leading to prosecution would be welcomed by PC White or PC Mitchell on 0845 045 45 45. Further damage was also caused to guttering and a TV aerial in the High Street at Milford on Sunday night last.
RELAXATION COURSE AT BRAXTON HAS NOW STARTED This most recent of facilities for group activity in Milford has now started the course in relaxation and meditation for those who would like to learn about a traditional form of therapy which frees the body from using drugs to lower stress and blood pressure. It shows students how to improve breathing and concentration, and how to use the mind to overcome many of the problems of getting older. Sessions are held on Monday and Friday
mornings in the Meeting Hall at Braxton Courtyard. This is in Lymore Lane,
and there is ample parking. For details call 01590 677042.
LOTTERY MONEY FOR LOCAL JUBILEE PROJECTS Local
groups can still apply for grants of up to £5,000 for projects marking the
Queen's Golden Jubilee. A total of £1m has already been awarded to 306
applicants across the country. For other sites giving information about what is going on in our area [ Click here ] To
see what
is Milford doing [
Click here
] FUND RAISING EVENING A SUCCESS Mike Reid's talk entitled 'Postal Peculiarities' did not include tales of postmen with funny walks as some who attended might have wondered. Mike specialises in stamps and other 'etiquettes' like registration labels etc. with military connections. His splendid array of exhibits spanned the years from the Boer War to WWII and a bit beyond and the full length of the Guide Hut. Mike talked his way down the show and gave many interesting anecdotes relating to the history of that period. The evening did handsomely (details later) towards helping Sally raise the starter money for the National Star College's fund raising plans and in the meantime, you may well see her walking round the village gearing herself up to the forthcoming walk, which takes place in October. Future events will include a cheese and wine evening in Braxton Gardens on 9th May and a quiz evening on 20th June. MILFORD'S PRINCESS REMEMBERED On Saturday, 20th April, at 2.15 pm, Princess Daisy of Pless was recalled in All Saints' Church Hall as the Milford Historical Record Society called an Extraordinary Meeting to host a presentation which marking the author's launch of a book about her. The biography, written by Mr. W. John Koch, is entitled 'Daisy, Princess of Pless 1873-1943 A Discovery'. The book has already been published in Canada and it is hoped that Mr. Koch, who is visiting from Canada, will be able to let us know UK publishing details. '.....at the British Embassy, King Edward went into a parlor with Princess Daisy of Pless. The King was smoking a cigar when suddenly he had a cough attack and he then fell back against the sofa; the cigar fell from his hand and his eyes stared. Princess Daisy and Queen Alexandra, who had rushed into the room tried to undo the collar of his uniform, but failed.' This quote is from a pile of information about Edward VII. To read more [ Click here ].
WHITE VOLVO 480 SALOON WITH
THREE MALES ON BOARD News from period ending 20th April 2002 SALLY REED PLANS MONSTER WALK FOR CHARITY 'POSTAL PECULIARITIES' Mike Reed will be giving this talk to kick start his wife Sally's effort to raise the money for her to go to walk 50 miles along the Great Wall of China. The talk will be held in the Guide Hut on Thursday evening at 7.30 pm, and tickets are £3, available from Sally by telephoning 642917. Sally raised £5,500 in an earlier effort for charity by cycling 300 miles through broiling heat in Egypt's Sinai desert, and this time the target is to be the National Star College in Cheltenham, which provides education for disabled people suffering from brain injuries, aged between 16 and 25. Future events will include a cheese and wine evening in Braxton Gardens on 9th May and a quiz evening on 20th June.
WANTED: REPLACEMENT FEET FOR BECKER There will be an Open Day on 14th April at the recreation ground in Barnes Lane for children aged between 5 and 9 years of age between 2.00 pm and 4.00 pm. This will be followed by a 'briefing day' on the following Sunday, 21st April, from 9.30 am to 10.30 am with coaches and parents. This could well be an opportunity to start building for the future, so that young Milford growing up will not be as short of interests as those of to-day seem to be. If you can support this venture please consider doing so.
News from period ending 13th April 2002 TOPPING OUT CEREMONY AT NEW HEALTH CENTRE The new Health Centre is looking very impressive and this week Dr. Christopher Seward was despatched up the ladder to put into effect the topping out ceremony as he put on the last tile - under the eagle eye of Tony Clark, the site manager. A guided tour for guests was conducted after the ceremony, during which time they saw the 5 consulting rooms, treatment rooms for the practice nurses, a staff library, health education facility, and a support unit for district nurses, health visitors and social working. There will also be extra space for car parking both for staff and visitors. Dr. Badham congratulated everyone associated with the project,
FUNERAL OF COL. DOUGLAS V. HUTCHINSON The Funeral of Col. Hutchinson took place at St. Francis of Assisi RC Church in Park Lane, Milford, where he was a regular worshipper, at 10.00 am on Thursday, 11th April 2002.
IF YOU HAVE TEARS TO SHED... The William and Mary 'roundabout' is getting the treatment and turning the centre of the village into chaos. The new design appears to be 'tear' shaped and involves an enormous amount of work, where the previous pentagon (or was it a hexagon?) was working efficiently after its initial teething problems. While we say 'involves an enormous amount of work' this is not quite correct, since whenever we go through the village very little work seems to be going on, although there are several road-working machines parked around the area. The local tax increases have been notified in the last couple of weeks and we can begin to see what they are spent on. Or not, as the case may be. We have been advised that most of the restricted access on the Keyhaven side of the 'roundabout' will be removed tomorrow - Friday.
News from period ending 6th April 2002 HM QUEEN ELIZABETH II MEETS FREDA AT THE PALACE Mrs. Winifred Cheyney, aka Freda, displays her beautiful award in the above photograph. In an extract from 'Investiture at Buckingham Palace' it was stated that Freda's MBE had been awarded in respect of service she had given to the community of Milford-on-Sea, a citation which obviously gave Freda enormous pleasure, as she pointed it out to me. Freda was accompanied on her big adventure by her nephew, the Reverend Alec Cheyney, a Baptist Minister in Malpas, South Wales, and his wife, Mavis.
WITNESSES ON THE GREEN The many people who gathered on The Green for the Service of Witness for Good Friday were blessed with what must be the finest Good Friday weather any of us in Milford have seen for many years. Members of all the Churches in Milford took part, and the service was lead by the Vicar of All Saints, Rev. Alastair Dunn. The man at the keyboard who made the hymns go with bazazz was Andrew Perry and Muffins generously provided all who attended with Hot Cross buns.
SO NOW WE KNOW WHAT IS BEHIND LA PORTE BLANCHE! 'Maison' opened this morning in a flurry of 'Juste un petit peu différent'. Padded carry bags offer picnic sets with chic, a beautifully smocked satin Christening robe hangs on the wall, copies of which can be ordered, although the one there is for sale at £95. In the second room there is a chest overflowing with embroidered cushions, and quilts pour out of the wardrobe on the right. Real French bowls for breakfast coffee can be bought, as well as delightful baby sets of dish and mug, knives, forks and spoons. Visit to see the pretty things on sale, and meet the truly French M. le Patron, who will be delighted to welcome you and show you around.
SAD DEATH OF LOCAL RESIDENT News reached us yesterday evening of the sudden death of Douglas V. Hutchinson, known to so many in Milford as 'Hutch'. He died during a holiday with Mac, his wife of over 55 years, in Barbados. As soon as we have more details we will republish. In the meantime, our most sincere sympathy goes to Mac and the members of his family and his friends.
News from period ending 24th March 2002 IS THE MYSTERY SORTED? For some months there has been persistent damage to the chain fence outside St. Francis of Assisi Church in Park Lane. This evening possible candidates for the crime were spotted as three young men on mountain bikes were seen trying to leap the chains. One fell head over heels but picked himself up bravely and no blood was spotted. When requested to leave, the lads' initial reaction was bravado, but they meekly disappeared, for which the Church will be grateful. It costs to repair the post, and the right-hand post at the space for pedestrians was ripped from its base, which means another session with the concrete for Father Vervenne. It is a shame that there is nothing more exciting for the young to do in Milford. Can nothing be done? Are there no volunteers for a youth club? A coffee shop? Do the young themselves have no ideas? If you're young and bored, write to us by [ Clicking Here ]
LOCAL MP SPEAKS OUT FOR CARE HOMES Desmond Swayne, MP for New Forest West, spoke out angrily against the miles of Government and European red tape which was strangling the care services in this area. He also pointed out that the problems which were now forcing many small care homes to close, such as width of doors, lift requirements etc. were not the only difficulties. The loss to date of beds in care homes meant that hospital discharges were affected, and many senior citizens were obliged to be kept in hospital because there was no care for them outside. On top of this, some hospital cases were discharged too early, became ill again and had to be re-admitted. All this, continued Mr. Swayne's arguments, affected the rest of the community in the resulting shortage of beds for even emergency cases. All this was blamed on the government, and the only solution appeared to be to vote the government out at the next available opportunity. Long wait though.......
THIEVES ON RAMPAGE AGAIN IN MILFORD A spate of robberies took place in Milford involving both properties and cars. Golf clubs, trolley and shoes were stolen from a car in Mill Mead, and a £200 CD player was stolen from another car near the Shingle Bank. These took place on the nights of Thursday 7th and Saturday 9th March. Sandwiched in between these dates, a valuable Sony camcorder was stolen from a house in Barnes Lane in broad daylight. Any information should be communicated to the Police on 0845 045 4545 and will be treated in strict confidence.
News from period ending 17th March 2002 LYMINGTON LIBRARY'S CLOSURE Lymington Library will open in all its finery on 21st March. The official opening will in fact be the preceding day, when the Lord Lieutenant, Mrs. Mary Fagan, will be present for the ceremony. However, Milford residents who use the library will need to remember that the old library will close on 27th February - Wednesday - at 1.00 pm, but the authorities are allowing extra books to be taken out to tide avid readers over the period until the new library is open. As well as traditional books, the new library will a free internet facility as well as lots of extra information available on CD-Roms.
DEATH ON THE SEASHORE - 2 A shark, five feet long, was found washed up on the beach at Friar's Cliff. Christchurch Council disposed of the body after being given clearance that although it had died of unknown causes, it was apparently in quite good condition. There was no indication of what sort of shark it was but the likelihood is that it was a small basking shark.
News from period ending 9th March 2002 PAM MANDERS A WORLD-WIDE TRAVELLER Mrs. Pamela Manders, whose funeral took place last Friday, always had her roots in Milford although she travelled widely during her life, from Ceylon to Australia via Milford, then Burma via the Falkland Islands and back to Milford. Having trained as a nurse in Adelaide, when she and her husband settled in Milford after their tour in the Falkland Islands, where her husband served with the Colonial Service, Mrs. Manders returned to her nursing career at Milford Hospital. Her husband, David, taught at Hordle House school. Her hobbies, which she shared with her husband before he died in 1985, continued to amuse her to the last, except for sailing which came to an end when she lowered the sails for the last time a couple of years ago. She leaves two daughters, Susan and Dorothy, and seven grandchildren. WOMEN'S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER Designed by women, this World Day of Prayer took place on Friday 1st March. Both men and women were all invited to share this prayer day, which was held at the Baptist Church in Barnes Lane at 2.30 in the afternoon, and at St. Mary's, Everton, in the evening at 7.30. Both services were well attended. The actual service was designed by the Christian women of Romania, and was said in many, many churches of all denominations all round the world. In the afternoon the address on the theme 'Challenged to Reconcile' was given by Mrs. June Roberts, and in the evening by Dr. Del Jenkins.
FUNERAL SERVICE The funeral service of Mr. John Condon, who died last Sunday at Oakhaven Hospice, took place to-day at Bournemouth Crematorium. Our condolences go to Mrs. Renee Condon and to Lance and Hazel in their loss.
News from period ending 2nd March 2002 DEATH ON THE SEASHORE Batches of dead sea birds, including kittiwakes, guillemots and razor bills, have been found washed up at Hurst Spit. Death seams to have been caused by oil pollution. At the same time, round many local coasts, porpoises and dolphins have also been found stranded on the beaches, sometimes still alive. The public has been requested not to touch the animals because the reasons for the incidents is not yet known, and possibly caused by some disease which may be infectious to people. In the latter case, anyone who should come across any porpoises or dolphins are asked to contact P.c. Andy Williams on 07831 434502 who is stationed at the Hampshire Police Marine Unit.
VANDALS ATTACK IL MULINO All six globe lamps which were such a feature of Il Mulino restaurant in Milford were smashed last night, their remains scattered along Barnes Lane. Fortunately they were made of plastic, which made the outcome slightly less dangerous than if they had been made of glass. Such scant regard for other people's property and the charm of the village itself is a sad reflection of how bored the young must be.
HEART ATTACK AT ST. FRANCIS A member of St. Francis RC congregation fell victim to a small heart attack on Sunday. The Ambulance Service was called, and a very rapid response meant that Mrs. Joan Durrant received prompt attention. She was taken to Lymington Hospital where she was later stated to be 'comfortable'.
LOCAL RESIDENTS DIE Mrs. Pamela Manders, who died on 19th February, aged 83, was a notable resident of Milford and had lived here since she arrived at the age of 5 in 1923. She was buried in All Saints' Churchyard on Friday, 1st March after a simple funeral service with her family and many friends. Mr. John Condon died on 24th February at Oakhaven Hospice. His cheerful approach to life will be missed by his friends. We offer our condolences to his wife Renee, and his son and daughter.
News from period ending 23rd February 2002 CARE HOMES FEELING THE PINCH This isn't the financial pinch that might be expected: The red tape surrounding the whole question of care homes and beds is leading to a Gordian knot of problems in an area where there is a high percentage of people over the age of retirement. The pinch comes where the New Forest Primary Care Trust confirms the desperate need for more beds to take the place of lost homes over the last 18 months and the District County Council withholds permission for building from scratch. Because of the new regulations pouring in from Europe on standards expected in care homes, the cost of altering existing large properties is uneconomic. Care providers, such as Colten Care, which has been doing a good job in the area, find their hands are tied when it comes to erecting new purpose-built premises, and it looks as though much more is going to have to be spent by Councils on providing care in people's own homes. If, of course, they can get the staff.... Many people are finding themselves becoming carers by default, and it may help those in that position to find out what exactly is involved. Hampshire County Council has a section on their comprehensive website dealing with just this problem. [ Click here ] to find out more.
BIG DISAPPOINTMENT FOR MILLENNIUM HALL FANS Plans for this addition to the social facilities of Milford have been frustrated by circumstances. Although planning permission has been agreed and a feasability study realised, no debts had so far been incurred on the project. However, the combination of a change in the National Lottery goal posts together with the plans for expanding All Saints' Church Hall mean that the likelihood of achieving help from the Lottery Fund is seriously diminished. The expansion of leisure space in the Church Hall will appear like competition to the Lottery authorities, who will feel there are probably enough recreational spaces available already. Brian Giles pointed out at the Parish Council meeting that it was very difficult to hire the hall for functions unless you booked a year ahead. Noel Baptiste, who has worked so hard for the Millennium Centre, felt that even with the extensions the Church Hall was going to be very busy, but Tony Willcox pointed out that all was not yet lost, and implied that there may yet be a 'right time' to make the effort required to put in a Lottery bid.
LITTLE ACORNS FOR MILFORD FOOTBALL TEAM? At last, moves are afoot to provide Milford with a space on the sports' map of the area in the most popular sport in Britain. There will be an Open Day on 14th April at the recreation ground in Barnes Lane for children aged between 5 and 9 years of age between 2.00 pm and 4.00 pm. This will be followed by a 'briefing day' on the following Sunday, 21st April, from 9.30 am to 10.30 am with coaches and parents. This is supported by the Parish Council, the Clerk to the Council, Keith Metcalf, recommended the referral of any possible costs be put in front of the Finance and General Purposes Committee for further consideration. The organisers are keen to use the parish logo on the team strip.
TWO OF OUR SWANS ARE MISSING Anxiety has recently been expressed about the disappearance of the pair of swans which were thought to have set up home beside the Danestream at the bottom of Barnes Lane. All that is visible at the moment are some rather sad-looking feathers. Has anybody seen them in the last week or so?
News from period ending 23rd February 2002 FEBRUARY 6th BIRTHDAY? Among other ways of celebrating the Golden Jubilee, the Palace has come up with the idea that people born on Accession Day will all have the chance of being invited to a Garden Party at Buckingham Palace. Applications should be made to Hampshire Lieutenancy Office, The Castle, Winchester, SO23 8UJ, and NOT to the Palace itself! There is no guarantee of certainty, as the invitations have been divided between all the counties, and ballots will be held to allot the tickets on a local basis. Worth a go though to have a bit of regal fun in the summer to celebrate your 50th birthday and the memory of a lifetime!
News from period ending 16th February 2002 MONEY GOING BEGGING Musicians who are interested in expanding their talents may be able to claim some money to fund them. Up to £600 scholarships are available through Hampshire County Council. Applications must be made by 18th February, so if you are interested or know anyone who might be, the telephone number for interested people is 01962 861502 which will connects to the HCC's Music Service. Good luck!
BISHOP VISITS MILFORD The Bishop of Southampton, Jonathan Gledhill, spoke on the subject of prayer at All Saints' Church Hall last Wednesday. The attendance was high, higher than that anticipated by Reverend Alastair Dunn, and buffered either end by some enthusiastically led hymn singing, his words were helpful and encouraging on the verge of Lent, to the many from all the Churches in Milford who attended.
NEW MAGISTRATE FROM MILFORD-ON-SEA Marguerite Wilcox from Milford-on-Sea has been appointed as Magistrate to the New Forest Bench at Lyndhurst Court. Congratulatons!
MISSING SAILING ITEMS' OWNERS SOUGHT New Milton police are still trying to find out what was stolen from the raid on several boats at the West Solent boatyard at Keyhaven on the night of 27th January. A computer and cash were taken from the offices. Police had made an arrest the previous night after the Keyhaven Yacht Club was broken into.
BERNARDO'S LUNCH The annual lunch of this charitable society will be held at 12 noon in All Saints' Church Hall on Friday, 15th February. This is HM The Queen's chosen charity for Jubilee Year. Tickets may be obtained from Gwens (tel: 642906) or from Committee Members.
News from period ending 9th February 2002 MILFORD PLEASURE GROUNDS A Woodland Grant Scheme worth £23,870 over a five-year period is due to start in March, said Chris Beeton at a parish council meeting. Parish councillors realised that the grant of 50% depended on their providing the other 50% and would only be payable as work continued with approval by the Forestry Commission. The main aim is to try to re-establish something of the way the woods grew in the established balance of things before many of the conditions which sustained this were destroyed. Mr. Beeton pointed out that instant improvements could not be expected, although the bulk of the money would be spent in this first year. He expected our grandchildren to benefit most, since trees do not grow overnight! Species that had grown although not native to the area, such as sycamore, would be removed, and trees like oak, aspen, wild cherry and rowan would be replanted and encouraged to take their former place in the scheme of things. Volunteers who might like to help would not be committed to purely physical tasks as there was a lot of record-keeping etc. to be done. Anyone will to give assistance should get in touch with the Parish Clerk in the Council Offices in the Village Hall, Park Road.
MILFORD CARRIAGE DRIVER WINS! At the Southern Region of the Indoor Horse Driving Trials, Milford's Pippa Jarman came home with the Open Pony Class Trophy, winning with the young pony, Champagne Alice, which belongs to Debbie Butler and was only on its third outing. This latest competition in the national league, was held at Hurstbourne Priors, near Newbury.
TAKEAWAY FOOD STORE FOR VILLAGE? The former Wool Shop may yet be turned into a fast food takeaway. Planning permission has been refused, but it is expected that the applicants will have another go. It seems more than optimistic to introduce yet another food source in a village with 4 pubs, 2 or more hotels, a fish & chip shop, 4 restaurants, several cafés, two grocers offering instant food open until 10 every night - all in a village with a population of 4 - 5 thousand, Let's hope the planners will consider the welfare of existing businesses in Milford before granting another hard-to-justify permission.
MILFORD GUIDES IN MONEY-RAISING MARATHON Among the many supporters of September's half- and full-Marathon Forest Runs, which together raised nearly £40,000, were Milford Guides. Congratulations to those who helped in some way to make it such a success.
MOORE & BLATCH ON THE MOVE Moore & Blatch Solicitors are on the move this month with the relocation of their Milford-on-Sea offices. From 1st February 2002, the firm will be based at The Old Bank House, 5 High Street. Specialising in wealth management and probate law, the firm has been in Milford for 30 years, so it is well established in the community. In fact, the five-strong team at Moore & Blatch has been in the same place for a combined total of 50 years! The new offices are bigger, brighter and better than the firm’s previous premises and will enable the team to provide its clients with a more efficient service. A spacious environment and improved facilities will allow the firm to spread its wings and expand its business in the future. Solicitor, Carolyn Harbridge said, "The move is a major milestone for the Milford branch of Moore & Blatch Solicitors and underlines our commitment to the local community. We look forward to welcoming our clients to the new offices and to providing them with another 30 years’ service!"
BY-ELECTION LINED UP FOR MILFORD Following the resignation of Tim Droogleever, a by-election has been called for a seat on the New Forest District Council on Thursday 21st February. Polling cards are now being distributed. The contest in Milford is a straitforward Conservative versus Liberal Democrats. Brian Pemberton (Conservative) will take on Jacqueline Szwaczka (Lib. Dem)
PLANS FOR GOLDEN JUBILEE Apart from the children's party planned for the celebration of HM Queen Elizabeth II's Golden Jubilee, not much news has escaped from anyone planning additional events. Anyone who has interesting plans is requested to e-mail the Webmaster. [ Click to write ] While Councils have set up expensive ideas to 'look after' us all, it is worth bearing in mind that individuals can have a party at the back or the front of their houses. If some neighbours have similar ideas at the same time, you could always blame coincidence. There are, after all, only a few days allotted for partying to celebrate the 50 years.
News from period ending 2nd February 2002 CALLING ALL SINGERS! John Wheeller is hoping to reunite the Millennium Choir for another choral project on Good Friday (29th March). He is looking for voices - obviously! - for commitment to rehearsals and enthusiasm all round to ensure a worthy repeat of last year's performance of Stainer's 'Crucifixion'. Rehearsals start on Friday 25th January at 8.00 pm. at All Saints. The proposed programme is a mixture of music from all periods, including a couple of choruses from Handel's 'Messiah' and Bach's 'St. John Passion'. For details please call John on 644282. News from period ending 27th January 2002 MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR BILL INGHAM In a packed All Saints' Church on 18th January, many Milford residents joined the family of the late William Norman Ingham - Bill to all his friends - to remember this gifted, modest and holy man. He will be missed for all these things and for his quiet sense of humour which brought smiles to many faces. Our sympathy goes to his family and close friends, and also generally to Milford, who will feel his loss. An artist, a musician and a stalwart in the service of All Saints as well as other groups in the community, the Memorial Service, designed mainly by Bill, reflected his love of all these things. May he rest in peace.
GEORGE & MARY ISLAND REPLACEMENT Work is due to start this week on the transformation of the George & Mary 'island' into a more conventional form as the centre of a roundabout. This should make things easier - a little easier - for some of the large vehicles trying to negotiate the circumnavigation required to follow the new rules of the road in the village!
WEEK OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY The opening service took place on Friday after at St. Francis, well before the arrival of the rain. Attendance was higher than anticipated, and everyone present enjoyed the service and tea which followed. The theme was the Water of Life, and it does seem a sad coincidence, that after the volcanic eruptions of Mt. Nyiragongo in the Congo which destroyed a large part of the town of Goma, the most important requirement at the moment is fresh water. For details of how you can help [ Click here ] for Cafod, [ Here ] for the Red Cross.
News from period ending 20th January 2002 SHOP CLOSURE SHOCK Devotees of Minuet, the high fashion shop in the village, are coming to terms with the shock news that it will close at the end of January. After 15 years successful trading, where skillful buying by the owner persuaded elegant local ladies that to buy her fashionable stock was an answer to their prayers, she has decided the time has come to shut up shop and enjoy a well-deserved retirement. In the meantime there are bargains to be had....so go, girls go!
POPPY APPEAL RECORD Figures issued in the last few days show that the final figure for collections in Milford, Everton, Lymore, Keyhaven and Efford have exceeded all Freda Cheyney's wildest hopes. She was mildly optimistic in her estimate that this year the collection might top £8,000.....but lo and behold, the figure that leaps out of this week's A & T is just over £9,000. Last year it was £7,791.69. All the details of individual and company collections etc. are listed in this week's issue of the A & T. Events during the year, notably those of 11th September in New York and the subsequent war in Afghanistan obviously boosted awareness of our troops and their needs, either after battle or in their declining years, which helped raise the total. We shall have to see whether one of Milford's favourite daughters will manage to boost the amount collected again next year. We can imagine which way the bets will go, and that is one of the reasons everyone is so pleased with Mrs. Freda Cheyney's recent award! Congratulations to every one concerned.
PLANNING PERMISSION FOR CHURCH HALL EXTENSION Planning permission has now been granted to allow the extension of the Church hall by approximately 14ft in width and 43ft in length. While this will obviously enhance options in the hall, it will presumably cut down on existing car park space. It is proposed to remedy this by encroaching into the grassy bank on the east side of the hall. Copies of the outline plans may be viewed in the Parish Office. Funds to implement the designs are going to be sizeable, and the PCC will be be working on plans to rise the required money.
CONSERVATIVE COUNCILLOR RESIGNS Tim Droogleever, ward representative for Milford on the New Forest District Council, has announced his resignation. It would seem that the splits in the Conservative programme runs from top to bottom of the party, and he blames his decision on lack of support from some of his colleagues on his proposals to improve the traffic situation in our area. The suggestion that Mr. Droogleever made earlier in the year to return to the former car parking charges frightened other Tories on the council who feared that would give them even less votes in any future election. This in turn induced a lack of support for Mr. Droogleever's suggestions which caused a dreaded U-turn on traffic policy. This looks like yet another demonstration of the difficulties of aiming at policies which might appear to be sensible and effective while at the same time treading a path which will induce others to follow contentedly. The optimism of politicians is so hard to maintain in the light of the old adage that you can't please all of the people all of the time....
JANUARY ON SPEED TRIP! January is rushing past even faster than it did last year and if you missed the design project for Milford exhibition in the Church hall on Friday last, we shall endeavour to bring a report about how it went in our next update.
JEANS OUT BUT TROUSERS IN Milford Primary School girls will now dress in line with other schools in the New Forest and have the choice of wearing skirts or trousers to school. 83% of parents balloted voted enthusiastically in favour. Of the remaining 17%, presumably some didn't vote and some voted against the idea, but as the headmaster, Mr. Martin Pitman, pointed out, the wearing of trousers was optional. There is a limit to what sort of trousers may be worn: no fashion items or jeans may be worn, which will put the current rather pretty jeans, which seem to have a spray of white paint down the front of the trouser legs and sparkles scattered over the rest, into the land of the No-No's. Still, from a purely practical point of view, both of comfort, warmth and general convenience, the girls seem to be delighted.
WEEK OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY This special week has come round again, and this year the opening service will be held in St. Francis RC Church at 3.00pm on Friday afternoon, 18th January. It is hoped that as many people as possible will be able to come. The theme this year is 'The Fountain of Life', and was planned by Christians of all denominations in Europe.
News from period ending 13th January 2002 BLUE MOON OVER MILFORD On Thursday morning, 3rd January, at least two people in Milford sighted a Blue Moon. Did you see it too? If so, you will be pleased to know you were not alone.
CONGRATULATIONS TO MRS FREDA CHEYNEY MBE The news was announced this morning that Mrs. Winifred Cheyney - our Mrs. Freda Cheyney - had been awarded an MBE for her services to the community which she has rendered in so many ways over so many years. It is a fitting tribute to a lady who has always put others first. The only regret she must have is that her Richard is not still here to share her delight in this honour. We have pleasure in awarding her a bouquet to accompany our congratulations!
ABANDONED CHRISTMAS CAKE A Walker's Luxury Christmas cake was found abandoned in the middle of the road at the junction of The Orchard and Chaucer Drive on Tuesday. The cake appeared never to have been started and had landed on its iced top after being dropped. One can only imagine what went on before it met its sad fate. It was rescued and will be transferred to a secret address in the Forest for the birds to enjoy.
To return to period starting July 2002 [ Click here ]
|
|
This Web Site © Copyright from 1999 www. milfordonsea.com |
