Community Together - May/June Issue combining Beaconsfield Together & Amersham & Chalfont's Together

BEACONSFIELD TOWN COUNCIL 

COMMUNITY 

Together 

Connecting communities in Beaconsfield, 

Amersham & Chalfonts together 

HOSPITAL 

Thank you to our Champion Community Sponsors 

March / April 2020 Issue 18

HOSPITAL 

Design by Joe Booth 

Welcome to a very special issue bringing Beaconsfield, Amersham & Chalfont’s publications 

together in this one-off issue - ‘Community Together’. 

If you live on your own, do not get out much, or have been self isolating because of coronavirus, 

then this magazine is for you. Not everyone is internet friendly or able to get out and about so, 

on behalf of the two communities we want to share what’s been going on since lockdown. 

Please spare a thought and give your thanks to all the Champion Community Sponsors 

(see front cover) who have supported this issue financially and made it possible to print and 

distribute via Royal Mail delivery to nearly 15,000 homes. A huge thank you from me. 

It has been really tough for everyone who’s had Covid-19 and had to self isolate and for businesses 

who’ve been forced to close or to re invent themselves. Staying at home ultimately saves lives so 

we must remember that. If you have been feeling low, help is at hand. Please reach out to your 

community and ask for help, there are so many wonderful people out there. 

Please see page 4 for our features list and if you are online visit www.communitytogether.co.uk 

for a list of food companies, online exercise classes and helpful resources in your area. 

So grab yourself a cup of tea, relax in your favourite chair and have a read. The poem on p5 is especially 

poignant. As always please text or email me with any comments therese@communitytogether.co.uk. 

Keep safe and stay at home and let’s hope by the next issue everything will be changing for the better. 

Best wishes, 

Therese 

PS. Special thanks to Alex Dunlop who encouraged me to forge ahead with this, Mat Peet my 

designer who I’m indebted to, Nick Bartolucci, Melissa Scallan, Joe Booth, James Cooklin and 

huge thanks to David for putting up with all sorts. 

Meet the Team 

Publisher, Editor & Sales 

Therese Cooklin - 07786 735711 

Magazine Designer 

Mathew Peet, Digital Bear Design - 01949 839206 

NOTABLE DATES IN MAY & JUNE 

Friday 8th May - Veterans in Europe Day (Bank Holiday) 

- let’s not forget the bravery of all those that fought and 

lost their lives in the 2nd world war, so raise a glass and 

toast them on the day. 

Events and Features Co-ordinator 

Judith Morris - judith@communitytogether.co.uk 

Content is accurate to the best of our knowledge, however Community 

Together part of Abstract Niche Ltd cannot be held liable for loss or 

damage, caused by errors or omissions. Inclusion of advertisers does 

not indicate our endorsement of their products or services. 

Monday 11th May - Beaconsfield Charter Fair 

Monday 25th May - Spring Bank Holiday 

Sunday 21st June - Happy Fathers’ Day to all dads!

COMMUNITY NEWS 

Whats in your community issue? 

6 6 13 19 

Joy Morrissey 

Beaconsfield MP 

Alex Dunlop 

Mayor of Beaconsfield 

Anita Cranmer 

Education & Skills 

Cabinet Member 

Dame Cheryl Gillan 

Chesham & 

Amersham MP 

Covid-19 Community Support & Help 

Better Connected Beaconsfield 8 and 10 

Chalfont St Peter support 19 

Local businesses helping you & the NHS 20 

Waitrose Beaconsfield 

shopping Covid-19 update 22 

News from Neighbourhood Watch 27 

Chalfont St Peter support 19 

Green tips for while you are at home 34 

Health and support 

Avoid anxiety during self-isolation 12 

Counselling support and resources 12 and 13 

Legal 

Did you know these legal facts? 21 

Navigating a ‘good’ divorce 28 

Community Features 

NHS Community Love in pictures 16 and 17 

Living with NHS front line workers 20 

Meet Gay Flashman and Ryan Toms 24 

British Airways fly for NHS supplies 27 

Sharing lockdown stories 29 

Community news 30 and 31 

Education 

How our school’s & students are 

looking after our planet 14 

10 lessons to teach your children 

about money 26 

Childrens’ puzzles 32 

Skipping challenge for children 33 

Find your local trade on our Trade Page 35 

Community Impact Bucks is a local charity 

which supports people and groups & makes 

a difference in Buckinghamshire communities. 

Helping local people in crisis 

Contact us to donate or volunteer. 

e: dave@chiltern.foodbank.org.uk 

t: 01494 775668 w: chiltern.foodbank.org.uk 

Registered charity number 1146699 

Charities or organisations needing volunteers email: 

e: covidvolunteering@communityimpactbucks.org.uk 

Helping local people in crisis 

Contact us to donate or volunteer. 

To volunteer register online: 

www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/ 

coronavirus/community-hub/helping-others/ 

volunteer-help/ 

e: dave@chiltern.foodbank.org.uk 

t: 01494 775668 w: chiltern.foodbank.org.uk 

Registered charity number 1146699 

4 

Community Together - bringing Beaconsfield, Amersham & Chalfonts together

This poem is called ‘Timeless’ 

and was written in 1869 

by Kathleen O’Mara and 

reprinted during the Spanish 

flu pandemic in 1919. The 

Spanish flu pandemic occurred 

exactly 100 years before the 

current Covid-19 pandemic. 

So please switch off your 

phones, televisions and 

computers, sit in a quiet spot 

and give this a proper read. 

It is so poignant in the light of 

the current situation and maybe 

it’s a warning to the world that 

we must look after each other, 

always be kind and look after 

our planet.... 

Timeless 

Words by Kathleen O’Mara 

And people stayed at home 

And read books 

And listened 

And they rested 

And did exercises 

And made art and played 

And learned new ways of being 

And stopped and listened 

More deeply 

Someone meditated, someone prayed 


Someone met their shadow 

And people began to think differently 

And people healed. 

And in the absence of people who 

Lived in ignorant ways 

Dangerous, meaningless and heartless, 

The earth also began to heal 

And when the danger ended and 

People found themselves 

They grieved for the dead 

And made new choices 

And dreamed of new visions 

And created new ways of living 

And completely healed the earth 

Just as they were healed. 

5


Joy Morrissey - 

Beaconsfield’s MP 

Joy Morrissey, elected as Beaconsfield’s 

MP in November 2019, spoke on Better 

Connected Beaconsfield’s weekly 

webinar on Saturday 11th April. 

Having contracted coronavirus herself and self 

isolating for a while, she thanked all of the Better 

Connected Beaconsfield team and volunteer 

Buddies for the work they were doing for the 

Beaconsfield community. Joy said that they were 

“leading the way” both in the county and also 

nationally with their response to this crisis. 

The work is having a huge and positive impact on 

people in Beaconsfield and literally saving lives. 

Joy also thanked Beaconsfield Rugby Club for 

its enormous help with deliveries and other 

activities. She said that they haven’t scored any 

tries lately but have been saving many lives. She 

also said if any local business is struggling, or if they 

wanted to contact Joy for any reason, she is now 

out of Covid-19 isolation and you can email her at 

joy.morrissey.mp@parliament.uk 

6 

Alex Dunlop 

- Mayor of 

Beaconsfield 

Councillor Alex Dunlop, Mayor of 

Beaconsfield sent a video message to 

everyone in Beaconsfield. 

He conveyed the message that the onset of 

Covid-19 has impacted everyone in the town 

and has been very worrying. HIs message was 

that during the lockdown everyone should continue 

to follow government advice on how to mitigate 

the risks associated with this disease. The majority 

of residents adhering to the instructions to stay 

home, shop only when absolutely necessary, follow 

the 2 metre rule and wash hands regularly for 

20 seconds and this has helped to stop the 

spread of the disease. 

His core message to everyone was: 

‘Help your Neighbour - Beaconsfield Needs You’. 

He was delighted that the community had pulled 

together and that through groups including 

Better Connected Beaconsfield’s Buddy Network, 

the churches and many local residents’ and 

Neighbourhood Watch organisations, residents 

have organised support for the vulnerable and 

older neighbours in the streets and across the town. 

All extremely admirable. 

Waitrose and Sainsbury’s supermarkets have 

played a part in supporting the community and 

helped volunteers shop for their neighbour by 

introducing special times to shop during the day. 

The library has been turned into a support hub for 

the most vulnerable: more details to follow on this. 

The Town Council’s priority is to maintain public 

services and continue to support voluntary 

organisations wherever possible. Alex said, ‘We care 

about the wellbeing of all our residents and that’s 

our prime concern’. 


BUSINESS SERVICES 

In light of the current 

outbreak, individuals and 

families are having to 

assess their finances. 

To help you through this challenging 

time, we are offering you FREE Financial 

Health Checks throughout May and June. 

Email Ben or call for a chat: 

ben@walter-partners.co.uk 

m: 07590 263 606 

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7

WWW.BETTERCONNECTEDBEACONSFIELD.ORG.UK 

THE BUDDY 

NETWORK 

COVID-19: 

BEACONSFIELD 

RESIDENTS UNITE 

TOSUPPORT THE 

VULNERABLE 

As the reality of COVID-19 

became apparent, many 

good people in Beaconsfield 

responded by contacting their 

neighbours with kind offers of 

support. Local charity, Better 

Connected Beaconsfield 

(BCB), is helping to coordinate 

the volunteering activity to 

ensure that all residents in 

the community are offered 

the support they need at this 

challenging time. 

BCB is now coordinating 

over four hundred wonderful 

volunteers – known as Buddies: 

n Buddies can help with light 

shopping for vital supplies, 

collecting prescriptions, 

friendly phone calls, dog 

walking and any other 

support that can be 

conducted at the doorstep 

(they don’t enter resident’s 

homes) 

n Buddies are checked and 

insured by BCB 

n BCB connects people in 

need with a Buddy who lives 

nearby 

n The elderly, sick or 

vulnerable, and those who 

are unable to leave their 

house or call on family and 

friends, are prioritised for 

Buddy assistance 

n BCB has set up The 

Listening Ear, a telephone 

support service, staffed by 

26 trained volunteers. It can 

be accessed by registering 

on the BCB website or 

calling 01494 919232 

There are various ways 

you can help, so please do 

consider volunteering with 

BCB. Although we have lots of 

kind people volunteering now, 

we anticipate our volunteers’ 

circumstances may change, 

for example, they may need 

to self-isolate or support 

members of their own family. 

Please sign up on the BCB website: 

www.betterconnectedbeaconsfield.org.uk 

8 Community Together - bringing Beaconsfield & The Chalfonts together 

8 Community Together - bringing Beaconsfield, Amersham & Chalfonts together

Beaconsfield Advisory Centre 

Help given to those who need advice in confidence. 

Appointments available outside office hours & home 

visits can be arranged for the housebound. 

Open: Monday - Friday 10am - 12pm 

18 Aylesbury End (next to the United Reformed Church) 

t: 01494 672 987 

e: beaconsfieldadvisory@gmail.com 

Buckinghamshire Adult Learning 

Contact us on 

01296 382403 

www.adultlearningbc.ac.uk 

Online courses now available 

Enrol now on over 150 online courses. 

Courses include: 

Tai Chi, Pilates, Yoga and Meditation 

French, Spanish and Italian at a range of 

different levels. 

Over 50 creative classes including 

floristry, drawing, painting, garden 

design, cooking and creative writing. 


9

POP-UP 

LARDER 

Better Connected Beaconsfield 

is working in partnership with 

Beaconsfield Rugby Club to 

collect food and other essential 

items, which are being given 

to those in urgent short term 

financial need due to COVID-19. 

Beaconsfield Rugby Club volunteer helping with food deliveries 

This initiative is called the Pop-Up 

Larder. BCB is very grateful for the 

support from the rugby club. 

Every Wednesday, Beaconsfield 

residents are invited to place 

donations outside their home, 

ready for collection at 1pm. 

Donations are then collected 

by the BCB Buddies. They are 

then distributed to those in need 

and any surplus is given to other 

charities, including One Can Trust. 

A huge THANK YOU to the 

wonderful, kind and generous 

people of Beaconsfield. The 

number of items that have been 

donated is fantastic: four van 

loads in each of the first two 

weeks! This ‘share if you can 

spare’ initiative will continue 

every Wednesday until further 

notice. 

There are specific criteria to be 

eligible and a tracking system 

makes sure requests are met 

and delivered from start to 

finish. 

Please let a local support 

agency, such as your 

church or the Beaconsfield 

Advisory Centre, know if 

you’re experiencing financial 

difficulties, due to changing 

circumstances. They will 

contact the Pop-Up Larder on 

your behalf. 

FREE PRESCRIPTION DELIVERY SERVICE 

BCB and BRFC are also 

working together to provide a 

free prescription delivery 

service for all 

Beaconsfield and 

Penn residents. 

Currently, around 

200 prescriptions 

are being delivered, 

for free, on a daily 

basis. 

If you’d like to use this service, 

please let your GP know to 

send your prescription requests 

to Pyramid Pharmacy 

and then contact 

Pyramid, on 01494 

673014, to let 

them know you’d 

like the home 

delivery service. 

HELP US 

BCB is hoping to raise £10,000 

to support Beaconsfield 

residents who need it most 

through this crisis. 

If you would like to help us 

carry on the good work, 

please visit the website and 

click DONATE. 

Better Connected Beaconsfield is a Charitable Incorporated 

Organisation. Registered Charity Number: 1185885 

10 Community Community Together Together - bringing - bringing Beaconsfield, Beaconsfield Amersham & The & Chalfonts together

Stay in the home you love 

Our carers are continuing to work during 

this Covid-19 crisis. 

Please do not hesitate to pick up the phone 

if you feel we may be able to help you 

Whether it be 1 hour per week or full time, it is a 

privilege to be trusted to care for you or your loved ones. 

5 Reasons to use us 

• High standard of care 

• Established over 3 decades 

• All profits go to charity 

• Satisfied clients 

• Competitive charges 

Tel: 01494 678811 

www.universal-care.co.uk 

9 Windsor End, 


Bucks HP9 2JJ 

11

HEALTH NEWS 

Avoid anxiety 

during self 

isolation 

By Dr Riccardo Di Cuffa 

(Your Doctor) 

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues 

to hit countries around the world, and 

people in this country are forced into 

lockdown, it is important not only to 

address your physical but also your 

mental health during these challenging 

times. 

Here are a selection of tips which may help you: 

1. Exercise – regular exercise helps to combat 

stress. It not only relieves stress hormones, it 

aids sleep and helps build self-esteem and 

confidence. Find something that you can do 

daily for 15 mins. This may be an online 

workout, walking cycling or Yoga. 

2. Reduce caffeine - Caffeine is a stimulant, 

commonly found in coffee, tea and chocolate. 

High doses increase anxiety. Some people 

are more sensitive to its effects than others. 

Moderate your consumption if you are feeling 

anxious and drink green tea or water instead. 

3. Communication with friends and family. 

It is important to continue to communicate with 

people even though we aren’t physically able 

to see them at this time. This personal contact 

HELP IS OUT THERE FOR YOU 

helps you to feel connected with the world 

and makes your world feel bigger. Video calls, 

phone calls or even messaging services have 

made contact with people easier than ever 

before. It’s also an opportunity to catch up with 

people who you haven’t for a while. 

4. Mindfulness is a process where you try to 

anchor yourself in the present. It can help 

reduce negative thoughts and,in a recent 

student study, was found to help reduce mental 

health issues. Numerous APPs such as Calm 

and Headspace are available which can help 

you achieve this. Remember there are health 

professionals who can help if you are really 

struggling. 

5. Sleep - It is important to remember that 

sleeping well will significantly help to reduce 

anxiety. A good sleep regime will contribute 

to a good quality, 7-9 hours of recommended 

sleep. Meals which are rich in carbohydrates, 

consumption of alcohol, and excessive screen 

time before bedtime will all disturb your sleep 

and contribute to increasing anxiety. 

If you feel you need to talk to a professional, 

please get in touch. 

Your Doctor 0330 088 2020 

info@your-doctor.co.uk 

NEED COUNSELLING? 

Suffering from anxiety? You are not alone - 1 

out of 6 people suffer from a common mental 

issue every year. Call National Charity Helpline. 

Helpline: 03444 775 774 | Text Service: 

07537 416 905 W: www.anxietyuk.org.uk 

Fiona Murray - Counselling & Coaching 

T: 01494 723 787 

W: www.fionamurraytherapy.com 

Sara Torrome - offers online support 

W: www.saratorromecounselling.com 

Need emotional wellbeing support? 

A service to children, young people and 

More resources that may help: 

their families in the Buckinghamshire area. 

W: www.bodyworks-clinic.co.uk based in CSP 

Call Jayne at Calm Little Minds. 

W: www.livewellstaywellbucks.co.uk 

T: 07395 636 382 

Vanessa Birt vanessa@trustvanessa.com 

12 Community Together - bringing Beaconsfield, Amersham & Chalfonts together 

W: www.calmlittleminds.co.uk 

Valerie Queyrel W: www.valeriequeyrel.com

News from Anita 

Cranmer - Cabinet 

member for 

Education and Skills 

Anita Cranmer is Chairman of Better 

Connected Beaconsfield and since 

April 1st the Executive Unitary Councillor on 

the newly formed Buckinghamshire Council. 

She sits as the Cabinet member for Education 

and Skills and with a budget of £700m 

she oversees 234 schools. She says it is a 

challenging and wonderful job which engages 

her with the very heart of care for our children 

in the county. Better Connected Beaconsfield 

was founded with a Bucks Council grant which 

she secured through the Local Area forum in 

2018. When schools were told to close when 

Covid-19 lockdown was announced, there were 

80 schools that remained open so front-line key 

worker’s children could remain at school aiding 

their to carry on saving lives. This means that 

1800 - 2000 children have gone to school every 

day and also during the Easter holidays schools 

have helped out. 

Anita thanks the Heads of schools and staff 

involved who have gone above and beyond 

all expectations and have been brilliant. 

In addition, many schools have also donated 

710 goggles to the NHS, which does mean 

there will be a shortage of googles in the 

science labs when normality does finally return! 

Anita advises that if there are any issues 

with your school, please contact the 

school concerned directly or to contact 

Buckinghamshire Council directly. Bucks 

Council: www.schoolsweb.buckscc.gov.uk/ 

covid-19-corona-virus-latest-advice 

Amersham School 

highest performer 

in England 

The school won two 

SSAT Educational Outcomes awards for their 

outstanding key stage 4 results in 2019. Chief 

Exec of SSAT said, “This success is down to 

the superb learning and teaching, outstanding 

support and inspirational leadership.” 

Chalfont St Giles 

Junior School 

scores ‘Outstanding’ 

The school has been awarded an ‘outstanding’ 

grade in their 2020 Ofsted inspection. The report 

said, “This is a school which places no limits on 

what pupils can achieve, both academically 

and personally.” For full stories please visit: 

www.communitytogether.co.uk/education 

Would it help to have a Listening Ear? 

If you need someone to talk to, for whatever reason, 

we have Listeners ready to help. 

01494 919 232 

or visit: betterconnectedbeaconsfield.org.uk 

Tell your friends! 


13

EDUCATIONAL NEWS 

We look to our 

children to save 

our planet 

Since the onset of Coronavirus pandemic, 

we have seen carbon emissions decline 

enormously. 

With businesses, factories, and non-essential 

trades forced to cease operating, there are fewer 

cars on the roads, limited planes in the sky, and 

less pollution in the air. Our planet seems cleaner 

and air fresher. Is coronavirus a warning that we 

must drastically take action to save our planet? 

With inspiring speeches on climate change from 

Swedish seventeen year old, Greta Thunberg, we 

take a closer look at what our young students are 

doing in local schools to tackle the environmental 

issue. 

In March of this 

year, Dr Challoner’s 

Grammar School 

hosted the 

Climate Emergency 

Conference ran 

by The Economist 

Educational 

Foundation. 

Passionate pupils 

from schools 

all around 

Buckinghamshire 

convened for the 

event with an aim 

to inspire change in 

schools, and allow 

student bodies to 

brainstorm ideas to 

design approaches to 

issues such as food waste, electricity usage, and 

recycling around school. 

“Do you think climate change will force us 

to abandon our planet?” 

Professor Smith, Director of the Royal 

Geographical Society gave an insightful 

overview of climate change from the 

geographical perspective: its impact on both 

Aerial view of Dr Challoner’s Grammar School 

humans and physical systems, and the need to 

balance industrial development with the hazards 

and risks associated with increased carbon 

emissions. 

The conference sparked discussions over difficult 

questions such as ‘Do you think climate change 

will force us to abandon our planet?’, and ‘Do you 

think even the most disruptive climate protests are 

justified?’ 

Ideas and plans for tackling specific areas of the 

student’s school community requiring a more 

sustainable and less environmentally damaging 

alternative were developed and were taken back 

to their headteachers and governors. 

At Chesham Grammar School the Senior 

leadership team, Year 13s launched a campaign 

in March to reduce the tide of plastic waste at 

school. Their project is being supported by 

a crowdfunding campaign with the Aviva 

Community Fund. Both students and staff want 

to come together to make a difference to the 

rising tide of plastic. 

They have a comprehensive plan which includes 

introducing new recycling bins to sort general 

waste, install new water fountains, ban single use 

plastic and improve the outdoor green space 

areas. Year 10 students have been working with 

Kew Garden, ‘Grow Wild Youth’ growing native 

flowers in un-mown areas within the ponies 

paddock at the Equestrian Club. 

At Beaconsfield High School they are equally 

passionate about the environment. Cafeteria food 

is either served in biodegradable containers or 

they are encouraged to bring their own re-usable 

containers by giving discount at the tills and 

skip the long lunch queues! When they return to 

school the plan is to introduce the biodegradable 

spork to further reduce waste. 


EDUCATIONAL NEWS 

Head Girl, Sahar at Becky High wants to 

introduce ‘meat-free Mondays’ 

Water filling stations have been installed in the 

school bathrooms and all vending machines were 

recently removed from corridors. 

The school pond is being regenerated thanks to 

the combined efforts of students and the Chiltern 

Rangers. They have already been awarded 

Eco-Schools Silver Award. Newly elected Head 

Girl, Sahar is working with prefects and the Eco 

Committee to achieve the final Green Flag award 

before Spring 2021. 

The Beaconsfield 

School teaches that 

every day behaviour 

can have an impact 

on the future of our 

planet. 

“Amersham School make clever Ecobricks 

to help protect the environment.” 

(See page 34 to make yours) 

Other eco initiatives include having ‘Big School 

Cleans’, reducing energy around the school, eg 

switching off lights when not in use. Reducing 

carbon footprint by encouraging walking or 

cycling to school. 

Thorpe House School also have their Eco-Warrior 

initiatives up and running with committee members 

from Reception to Year 11 getting involved. 

The committee looks at bio-diversity, energy, 

global links, healthy living, litter, school 

environment, marine life, transport, waste and 

water. They are also working towards Green 

School status and have lots of fun along the way. 

When school 

re-opens students 

will be bringing in 

reusable drinking 

bottles instead of 

buying single use 

plastic bottles. 

The school has invested £2000 into this initiative 

such that four new fountains have been installed, 

two externally and two internally, and in December 

two more will be in placed in the Sports Hall so 

water will be freely available to all students. 

Innovate, their catering partner are working 

with them to reduce plastic. There will be no 

plastic bottles sold and all drinks will be in 

recyclable cartons as well as being free of 

artificial sugars. 

Amersham School are highly motivated to 

work towards a Green Flag Award through 

the Eco Schools Project. They have a number 

of excellent initiatives including reducing plastic 

by squashing it together into a bottle to make 

plastic “Ecobricks’. 

New water fountain installed at The Beaconsfield School 

Junior schools are also joining in with eco initiatives 

and an exceptional school to mention is Chalfont 

St Giles Junior School. Their Eco-Warriors hold 

assemblies on climate change and classes have 

allotments to grow their own food and compete 

yearly! They also plant wild flowers in certain areas 

around the school to encourage wild life to flourish. 

Do take a look at their beautiful website to see 

more from these young students. See below. 

It certainly is inspiring to see each school and 

their students doing their bit to look after the 

environment, because as The Beaconsfield 

School point out, ‘After all, there is no Planet B’ 

Thank you to these school’s that participated in writing this feature: 

Amersham School: 

www.amershamschool.org.uk 

Beaconsfield High School: 

www.beaconsfieldhigh.bucks.sch.uk 

Chalfont St Giles Primary School: 

www.csgvillageschool.org 

Chesham Grammar School: 

www.cheshamgrammar.org 

Chesham Grammar School: 

www.cheshamgrammar.org 

Dr Challoner’s Grammar School: 

www.challoners.com 

The Beaconsfield School: 

www.beaconsfield.school 

Thorpe House School: 

www.thorpehouse.co.uk

WE LOVE OUR NHS 

To NHS staff 

& key workers 

The love and support the nation 

have shown over these weeks to 

the NHS & key workers has been 

remarkable. It’s because we care 

about you, we are staying at home 

so that you can go to work and 

save lives. THANK YOU 

Deb Sanders showing ‘pillow love’ 

from Beaconsfield WI (see p30) 

From applauding from rafters of our 

homes every Thursday at 8pm to small 

children chalk drawing rainbows on 

pavements and painting their love 

to hang on windows. A 99 year old 

war veteran has walked in his garden 

and raised millions and inspired all. 

Teams of ladies are busy in their homes 

churning out scrubs and scrub bags for 

nursing staff. 

On a local level this is no exception 

and here are some beautiful images 

to share with you. Thank you for your 

courage, dedication and love to those 

patients that need your care. We 

know it must be so difficult for you but 

THANK YOU! 

Khaled from Rotary Beaconsfield with Gail from Waitrose 

supplying food in the community 


Runner up of Hilton King 

Locke ‘Design a dream house’: 

Roop Bal Age 7 

Nikki (and daughter) receiving 40 laundry bags for 

Harefield Hospital 

Left 

Leanne Franklin at Stoke Mandeville showing off one of the 40 NHS 

mugs received, donated and designed by Miranda at Gifty Room 

Top 

Tilly Burge age 3 winner of Hilton King Locke ‘Design your dream home’ 

Bottom 

Gayhurst pupils and sisters, Emily (7) and Poppy (8) painting NHS 

rainbows 


17

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Chalfont St Giles and Little Chalfont has 

been evident to Chesham and Amersham’s 

MP, Rt Hon Dame Cheryl Gillan, throughout 

her 28 years representing these warm and 

welcoming villages. 

Volunteering has always been at the heart of 

life here. Residents have met challenges in the 

past and the present Covid-19 pandemic is no 

exception. Individuals are stepping up every day 

to help, either formally through the co-ordinated 

community hubs, or informally, by assisting 

neighbours and those who are vulnerable. 

This emergency comes at a time when local 

government is in transition, with elections to the 

Buckinghamshire Unity authority being delayed 

until next year. Our current councillors are 

staying in place and working with all levels of 

government to make sure our communities are 

safe and the right help gets through where it is 

needed. For them, says Dame Cheryl, “It is very 

definitely business as usual, in unprecedented 

and unusual circumstances. Everyone is doing a 

magnificent job.” 

It’s also ‘business as usual’ for Dame Cheryl and 

her Westminster staff. Cheryl and all members of 

her team are working full time from home to help 

constituents and local businesses. Information is 

also updated regularly on Dame Cheryl’s website, 

www.cheryl.gillan.co.uk. 

“The greatest things can happen amidst the 

darkest days,” comments Dame Cheryl. “The 

comfort and support which so many people are 

giving to others, through kind words and actions, 

is an inspiration and typifies the spirit of our 

Chalfont villages.” 


19


Living with NHS 

front line workers 

In a house of four, with my mum and 

younger sister working for the NHS as 

Healthcare Support Assistants, it’s safe to 

say the atmosphere at home has changed. 

Not only do we all worry about the risk they’re 

putting themselves at on every shift, we’ve had to 

make the decision to keep our distance from one 

another as best we can, and on many days the 

house is very quiet as they both frequently work 

night shifts, most of which are consecutive too. 

At 18 years old and having only started her 

apprenticeship 3 months ago, my sister has 

well and truly been thrown in at the deep end. 

Not only is she dealing with COVID-19 patients 

first hand on a daily basis, but sadly, she has also 

seen several patients pass away. On top of this, 

her apprenticeship has been ‘paused’ during 

the pandemic, so she is working 48-hour weeks 

Shayla (middle) socially distanced from mum, Suzie (left) 

and younger sister Kyah (right) 

(in constant contact with Coronavirus) on a mere 

£6.15 an hour! 

As you can probably imagine, their shifts are long, 

incredibly draining and regularly understaffed. 

Yet, in spite of everything they have to face they 

remain positive and I couldn’t be prouder of the 

work they are doing for our country, and how 

fearlessly my sister has risen to the challenge. 

Although living at home isn’t quite what it was, 

we all look forward to the day we’re able to give 

each other a big hug! 

Local businesses 

helping you & 

the NHS 

Miranda at Gifty Room is offering readers 

10% off her products bought online. 

W: www.etsy.com/uk/shop/TheGiftyRoom 

Use code: NEWCUSTOMER10 

Marie at Fired Works will donate 10% 

of funds raised on all her RAINBOW 

products bought online. 

W: www.fired-works.com/products 

Wyld & Creative have designed lovely 

greeting cards including 1st class stamp 

25% of all profits go to Masks for 

NHS Heroes. 

W: www.rainbowcard.co.uk

Did you know these 

legal facts? 

A warm hello to everyone. It is so heartening 

to know that this great community we live 

in is working together to get through these 

unprecedented times by staying at home and 

heeding the Government guidelines. 

In the spirit of this issue of the magazine offering tips 

and tricks for things to occupy you at home, I shall try 

to offer a little light relief and entertainment. Given 

that I am restricted to keeping a legal theme, you will 

appreciate that this is not the easiest task! 

Those of you who know me and my firm will know 

that we are anything but stuffy, but it might be fun to 

delve into some of the ancient curiosities that litter 

the long history of the Law in England and Wales and 

its reputation for being dry. I owe all of the following 

information to barrister and TV presenter Clive 

Anderson and a radio show he did in 2012, so if 

there are any inaccuracies or errors please send your 

complaints to Mr C Anderson c/o the BBC… 

Following the Norman Conquest of 1066, French was 

used for court cases in England and Wales but when 

was a law passed to change it to English? Was it: 

(a) 1362, the year of the death of Pope Innocent VI; 

(b) 1731, the year of the death of Daniel Defoe (writer 

of Robinson Crusoe), or; (c) 1928, the year Blackburn 

Rovers won the FA Cup (my hometown heroes)? 

A slight trick question, as the answer is both (a) and 

(b). In 1362 a statute required all trials to be heard in 

English but French survived in spite of it, until 1731 

when another Act to abolish French in the courts was 

passed. Even that wasn’t quite the end of it though. 

They had to pass yet another Act in 1733. Can you 

think why? They had forgotten to include Wales in 

the 1731 Act… 

In medieval Europe, animals were often tried in 

court in the same way as humans, but which animal 

do you think was most often in the dock? Those of 

you thinking that it was horses, as you like the idea 

of them answering ‘neigh’ to every question on the 

stand, get a bonus point for the pun. Those of you 

thinking magpies, because of their reputation for 

stealing things, are also applauded. The true answer, 

though, is … pigs. 

Don’t ask me why. It even went so far as a pig being 

accused of murder in 1386. The poor animal was 

tried, convicted and then hanged at the gallows. 

Lastly, have you ever wondered why barristers wear 

black robes in court? Might it be: (a) to ensure that 

juries are not unfairly influenced by their dress; (b) 

to mourn the death of Queen Anne, or; (c) because 

Oliver Cromwell deemed colour to be ungodly? 

Well now, allegedly it is a follow-on from the death of 

Queen Anne in 1714(!) It is said that the courts went 

into mourning as a sign of respect and have simply 

kept on wearing black ever since. 

There you go. We’ve come a long way in some ways, 

and less so in others. Stay safe everyone, and we’ll 

see one another again in better times. 

Best wishes, Janine. Partner at Leigh Duncan Solicitors. 


21


News from Waitrose 

in Beaconsfield 

I caught up with Danny Comber, 

Partner and Deputy Branch Manager 

of Beaconsfield store, to find out the 

latest measures in place to tackle 

Coronavirus in the community. 

Waitrose has been working alongside 

Better Connected Beaconsfield, The 

Christian Eye Charity, the Rugby Club 

and Rotary groups to help the elderly, 

disadvantaged and those vulnerable 

in Beaconsfield who have had to self 

isolate from coronavirus. 

Measures have been put in place to 

keep all customers and partners safe 

and these include: 

• 2 metre queueing system outside store – 

regularly checked by marshalls 

• Trolley and basket handles are sterilised. 

• Customers are directed to different 

locations in store to control flow. 

• 2 metre social distancing floor stickers 

throughout the shop. 

• Regular tannoy calls to remind 

customers about social distancing 

• Protective customer fronted screens 

installed at all checkouts. 

Partners: Alison, Jane and Teresa standing by the 

NHS priority table. 

NHS worker priority 

A designated NHS shopping area with 

essential basics is available for all NHS key 

workers and also priority entry is given, so 

they can shop later in the day and around 

their shifts. 

Charitable donations 

The store is donating more than usual to 

FareShare charities and this also prevents 

food wastage. Food care packages have 

been made up containing non-perishable 

goods and donated via Beaconsfield 

Rugby and Rotary Clubs. 

Danny would like to thank everyone 

for shopping at the store during these 

challenging and worrying times. Their 

prime priority is listening to and working 

with the community to provide a safe 

environment for all. He says he is seeing 

the best of the community all working 

together which is fantastic. 

Opening hours 

• Open at 8am Monday - Saturday and 

the first hour 8 - 9am is for the elderly 

and vulnerable. 

• Extra 15 minutes browsing time on 

Sundays, begins 9:30 - 10:30am 

Address: Waitrose Beaconsfield, Penn Rd, 

Beaconsfield HP9 2PW 

Phone: 01494 676 818 

SAVE THE DATE FOR 2021! 

16 TH MAY. 

2020 GX Fun Run 

postponed due 

to coronavirus. 

Thanks to all 

sponsors and 

supporters, we 

hope you will 

be back with us 

for 2021.

A warm welcome 

to The Greyhound 

The Greyhound, a pub and restaurant 

serving modern British cuisine, was opened 

in Beaconsfield Old Town in December last 

year - headed up by two former Gordon 

Ramsay front-of-house staff. 

Daniel Crump and Margriet Vandezande-Crump, 

who have both worked in some of the UK’s top 

restaurants, have sympathetically redesigned 

the Grade II listed old Coaching Inn on Windsor 

End, turning the 17th century building into a 

modern pub and restaurant. 

Since its opening, The Greyhound has become 

a firm favourite with locals and established itself 

as a foodie destination for those travelling from 

further afield. Remarkably, despite only being 

open for three months, it was named as one of 

Britain’s 30 best pubs to visit for lunch by The 

Times newspaper. 

The pub and restaurant offers guests a modern 

take on British classics, served in a dining room 

created with comfort in mind. It also offers an 

extensive wine list, and beers and ales from 

local breweries. 

Like all hospitality businesses, the COVID-19 

enforced closure has created a new set of 

challenges for the pub and restaurant. Despite 

the current lockdown, the owners are already 

looking to the future. 

but we are where we are. We have all worked 

incredibly hard to launch The Greyhound 

and we will be working even harder to make 

sure that we are able to give our guests the 

experience they will all be pining for after this 

period passes. 

“We are using this time to see what we can do 

to further improve what we do, both on a food 

and service front. We are currently ploughing 

ahead with our plans for our dining terrace and 

outside spaces and cannot wait to share these 

with our guests when we reopen.” 

Margriet added: “We have been humbled by 

the support we’ve had from locals to date as 

so many people have been calling to offer their 

support by buying vouchers to use when the 

lockdown is over.” 

Lyn Flew, a local resident and regular at The 

Greyhound added: “We have been lucky to 

have seen the time and effort Dan and Margriet 

have put into the restoration of The Greyhound 

inside and out. Their menus are tantalising and 

different all served up by the amazing staff. 

“Eating at The Greyhound is a memorable 

experience and we can’t wait to eat at The 

Greyhound again.” 

Vouchers can be purchased by calling 01494 

671 315. To book a table for later in the year, 

or sign up to receive newsletters, please visit 

www.greyhoundbeaconsfield.co.uk 

Daniel explains: “We never expected to be in 

this situation after three months of opening 


23

BUSINESS NEWS 

Business News 

The Covid-19 lockdown has shaken up the economy and the business world has turned 

‘upside down’ overnight. 

For small independents, retailers, sole traders and those in the hospitality sector, it is really 

tough. Many have sought to re-arrange their businesses and seek other ways of making a 

living. Businesses that need financial help can go to Buckinghamshire Council’s resources page: 

www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/coronavirus/coronavirus-business-support-hub or seek financial 

help from a Buckinghamshire Business First website: www.bbf.uk.com 

Community movers and shakers 

Of course there are many many brilliant community people you may know but on 

my journey to get this magazine completed two individuals in particular stood out. 

Thank you for all you have done for your communities. 

Gay Flashman - former Managing Editor at Channel 4 News and programme 

editor at BBC News, now works in the heart of Beaconsfield. Gay lives 

in Beaconsfield with her family and set up her own business 6 years ago - 

Formative Content, a digital content agency which leads corporate 

communication throughout the world. 

Not only is Formative Content at the heart of Covid-19 communications and 

content for some of the world’s leading organisations but she also voluntarily 

heads up communications for local charity Better Connected Beaconsfield 

(BCB). She has been instrumental in pulling PR, marketing, videographers and 

digital volunteers together to help BCB help the vulnerable and elderly within 

Beaconsfield, as well as running Facebook feeds and instigating the design of 

a new website via complimentary support from local agency, Indigo Tree. 

Ryan Toms - has been in the property world for 16 years and previously worked 

at Savills in Rickmansworth for a number of years. He lives in Chalfont St Peter 

with his wife and 2 young children. At the beginning of 2020, re-evaluating his 

family life, he decided to set up his own agency. Family being his motivation, it 

felt fitting to name the company after his children, Arthur and Grace, as saying 

their name every day reminded him of why he had chosen to start a business, 

providing continual motivation, hence creating Arthur Grace Residential. 

Launch of a new business with the start of Covid-19 pandemic meant he had 

more time on his hands so instead of sitting idle, he actively threw himself into 

helping CSP community. He set up a Facebook group - ‘CSP Community - 

Covid support’ and co-ordinated delivery of leaflets in the whole area with 

help from local residents, along with many other acts of kindness. There are 

now more than 300 members and together with the support of Matt from the 

Wonky Agency, a brand new website for the community was born. There are 70 

people set up as volunteer street buddies to help and assist those in need but more volunteers are still 

required. To volunteer or if you need help in any way please visit website: www.cspcommunity.co.uk 

or see p19 for contact details. 

24 


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BUSINESS NEWS 

Ten lessons to teach 

your children about 

money 

When it comes to teaching your children 

about money there are some lessons 

that can’t be taught in the classroom. 

During global lockdown, this may be a 

good opportunity for them to learn about 

managing their finances. 

1. Budget to save 

Today’s school-age children are facing a long 

wait to get on the property ladder and to retire. 

We recommend getting them into the habit of 

saving and budgeting as early as possible, so 

they are prepared for these milestones. 

2. You only spend it once 

Children need to understand the value of 

money. There are now apps and prepaid cards 

that can be used for purchases and monitored 

by parents. This will gradually introduce them to 

an increasingly cashless society. 

3. Needs vs wants 

It is important to help children decide when to 

spend now and how to budget in later life. 

4. Money is earned 

Don’t give pocket money without requiring your 

child to do something for it. 

5. Save to give 

Children are naturally generous. Being able to 

give some of their pocket money to charity may 

be an incentive for them to save more. 

6. Paper vs plastic 

Just because you can’t see the money 

when using a card, it doesn’t mean that it isn’t 

being spent. Explain the difference between a 

credit and debit card and how the money in a 

current account is just like paper money. 

7. Keep half, spend half 

A good mantra is, “keep half, spend half. 

This is something children can apply now, as 

they do not have the large outgoings adults may 

have. If they carry this principle into adulthood, 

it will transform their life financially. 

8. Avoid peer pressure 

Stress the importance of making healthy choices 

with money and life in general. Look at social 

channels and point out how things are manipulated, 

how ‘influencers’ are paid to sell products. 

9. Compound interest 

Described as the eighth wonder of the world by 

Albert Einstein. It is important to teach children 

about the effects of compound interest 

10. Prepare for the unexpected 

The latest virus pandemic has shown us all how 

important it is to have savings for a rainy day. 

Building on good financial health helps deal with 

all types of events both good and, not so good. 

Philip Harper is an 

Independent Financial Planner 

phil@fmifa.com 

01494 817151 

Penn Barn, Elm Road, 

Penn, Bucks HP10 8LB 

www.fmifa.com 

25 

Y E A R S 

“Life’s better now we have a plan” 

Financial Management. Independent Financial Advice 

Contact us: 01494 817151 | info@fmifa.com | www.fmifa.com 

Penn Barn, By the Pond, Elm Road, Penn, Bucks HP10 8LB 

Financial Management is a trading title of Philip Harper LLP which is 

authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority 

fm


Simply safer and stronger 

We have all seen the strong community spirit 

in Beaconsfield and the Chalfont villages in 

recent difficult times. Neighbourhood Watch 

schemes are active throughout the area and 

these have been particularly valuable in the 

recent crisis, with the community coming 

together as never before. 

In the Chalfonts areas, WhatsApp groups 

have been organised to keep everyone in touch, 

giving social support, with everyone joining the 

regular NHS applause. Shopping for neighbours 

is available when needed, and isolated people 

don’t feel alone. 

One Beaconsfield Neighbourhood Watch 

scheme focused on support for the elderly, 

collecting food and prescriptions. Another 

lovely gesture was explained as follows: “A 

member with a son who is a Dr on the front 

line at St Thomas’s was worried because he 

had no time to buy food. So we organised a 

collection and his mother drove up with three 

crates of stuff which he shared with the staff. 

It really has been a moving time.” 

Neighbourhood Watch schemes improve 

safety by helping the police, but this is only 

one benefit - even if the biggest. Schemes 

make communities stronger too, by providing 

advice on many topics through our national 

network. You can locate your nearest scheme 

at www.ourwatch.org.uk, by simply entering 

your postcode. 

If you do not have a Neighbourhood Watch 

scheme in your road, please consider setting 

one up right away. The process is free and 

very easy, so to find out more, please email to 

chilternnhw@gmail.com. 

CSP mum proud 

of son 

Proud mum, Mary Kendall, member of CSP 

Tennis club and resident in Chalfont St Peter 

(CSP) and St.Giles for over 55 years, couldn’t 

help share with the community how her son 

Rob had been asked by British Airways to fly 

vital medical supplies to Britain for the NHS. 

Captain Robert Kendall, employed by British 

Airways for 28 years, headed a team of flight 

crew operating a Boeing 777 to pick up 

ventilators as well as personal protective 

equipment (PPE) on 9th April. 

The flight which arrived at Heathrow from 

Shanghai was the first of several British 

Airways flights containing medical equipment 

and supplies coming into the UK from 

China. Over the coming days 55 tons of 

hand sanitiser will arrive in the UK on a similar 

flight from Shanghai. 

Captain Rob said, ‘There was a large team 

involved in getting this equipment to the UK. 

All of us were very proud to do our bit to help 

protect the NHS.’ We commend Robert and his 

crew and all at British Airways for providing this 

vital service to the NHS. 


27

LEGAL NEWS 

Navigating a 

“good” divorce 

There has been much speculation about divorce 

rates being impacted by Coronavirus and family 

isolation. No-one really knows if this will be 

so, but if you do find yourself going through a 

divorce don’t assume it will inevitably involve 

bitter court battles or cost thousands. 

For many couples it is possible to have a ‘good 

divorce’ through less acrimonious options: 

1. Direct discussions - we call this “kitchen table 

negotiations”. Each party takes legal advice on 

whether their agreement is fair and may ask lawyers to 

make the agreement legally binding. 

2. Mediation – a voluntary process involving a 

trained Mediator assisting discussions. It needs 

goodwill and trust on both sides, and you may 

need a lawyer to give you independent legal advice 

about your settlement. 

3. Collaborative law – non-confrontational meeting 

of all parties and their solicitors, agreeing not to go 

to court. The parties set the agenda with their lawyers 

involved in negotiations. 

4. Solicitor negotiations - popular and very often 

successful. Negotiations are by letter (where offers 

are exchanged) or can be at round table meetings. 

5. Arbitration - a good alternative to the court 

process involving an expert private judge and a 

timeframe set by the parties. 

Whichever process you choose, these are our top tips: 

• Encourage communication and transparency 

• Focus on the children, try to put children’s interests 

foremost in discussions and don’t undermine each 

other’s roles in the family 

• Try not to let the grief of separation cloud your 

judgement 

A good divorce means clients can move on with 

minimal emotional wounds and if they have children, 

can focus on their new roles as separated parents. 

Rupinder Rai, Legal Director at 

Beaconsfield Office Rayden Solicitors 

Rupi specialises in matrimonial cases 

involving complex financial issues and 

also child arrangements, and has worked 

on cases that involve international 

proceedings. 

RAYDEN_BEACS_TOGETHER_130X90_CMYK_OUT_2 copy.pdf 1 15/04/2020 09:47 

C 

M 

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CM 

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Sharing lockdown 

stories - Lockdown 

in Nice, France 

The vast majority of the world is currently 

under some sort of lockdown. Differing from 

country to country and varying somewhat 

between cities, this is how lockdown affects 

our day-to-day life in Nice, France. 

Lockdown here started in mid-March and 

Monsieur Macron announced on 13th April that 

the rules currently in place will extend until at 

least 11th May. 

The basic rule is to stay at home #restezchezvous, 

however there are certain exceptions allowed 

provided you fill out and sign a form stating why 

and when you want to go out. If you are stopped 

by the police and found to be abusing the 

situation you will be fined €135 the first time 

and thousands of euros thereafter. 

Exceptions include: going to work if working 

from home is not possible, visiting the shops for 

essential supplies, health care if impossible via 

videoconference, critical family care and daily 

exercise. At the shops, social distancing and 

queues are the norm and the spirit is not to 

pop out every day just for a fresh baguette. Any 

sortie should be on your own or with one other 

member of your confined household. If you’re 

out walking or running it can be for maximum 

1 hour within a 1 km radius of your home. 

The city of Nice has also implemented some 

more severe lockdown rules including a curfew 

from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m., restrictions on exercise 

times, no access to beaches, including the 

beach-side of the Promenade des Anglais, and, 

shortly, the obligation to wear a non-medical 

mask whenever out of your home. 

Indoor family life revolves around cake-baking and 

cooking, reading, social media and games. Our 

daughter has been fortunate that she can continue 

her French university education through a daily 

video link with her tutors and the rest of her class. 

With the streets practically deserted, the noise 

and pollution from cars and buses is virtually 

non-existent and the sound of birdsong is only 

interrupted at 8 p.m. by widespread applause 

in appreciation of the critical work performed by 

medical staff. 

Words by dad living with wife and 3 children, 

Nice, France 

Day 21. Safe at home, 

not stuck at home 

Let’s admit it, we were not prepared for this. 

If you are like me, you might have spoken to 

some of your neighbours for the very first time, 

might even have offered to shop for them 

(hoping really they would politely decline). 

I even sat down and spoke to my wife properly on 

the sofa the other day - she is quite nice! 

Teenage sons seem happy: 1 part online 

tuition, 2 parts eating, 1 part exercise and 6 

parts Xbox/Facetime/Youtube/Zoom/Houseparty 

and whatever else the wifi allows to entertain 

them. Note to readers: they are almost 18 so 

less policing required but random checks still 

applied. 

Had to clear out the office fast: found stuff I 

have been looking for for a few years, including 

old photographs. Or are they called photos? 

(Remember them?). Finally located the cricket 

bat too - not that it will likely be needed this year. 

Work has been very productive in my cleaned 

out office. My newly planted herb and vegetable 

garden is beginning to flourish, for the first time. 

Wife asks why it has taken so long to discover my 

green finger skills. Epic! 

Wife is the only one who leaves the house: she 

cannot bring her frontline work home. I am 

thankful for her dedication and commitment. 

We bang our pots and pans on Thursday extra 

hard knowing where she is. You are not stuck 

at home, but you are safe there. Enjoy the 

experience. 

Words by dad of 2 with wife on the frontline, 

London

CLUBS AND GROUPS 

Clubs and groups adapting to lock down 

Many clubs and groups have had to find other ways to operate due to the 

corona lockdown. We catch up with a few to see how they have adapted 

and kept themselves busy. 

Beaconsfield WI is one of thousands of WIs across the country to offer support to frontline workers. 

They provided Harefield Hospital 40 laundry bags to take their clothes home in to wash, within 

24 hours of asking! President, Deb Sanders, a former NHS radiographer herself, also organised 

through her team of seamstresses including the Better Connected Beaconsfield Buddy network of 

400+ volunteers a further 250 bags and counting! She wants to thank everyone for the wonderfully 

rapid response and pulling together at this time of need. 

Chalfont Common WI have also been busy and President Chris Coteman 

(pictured left) has also rallied her WI troops together, plus many neighbours on 

Copthorne Lane have all been busy sewing, cutting and threading. At time of 

print, they had delivered 350 scrub bags to the Wycombe co-ordinator. Chris is 

also a member of CSP Tennis Club and they have had a request from another 

member for bags for the District Nurses. 

The word has spread to Denham Lane and more ladies are willing to lend a 

hand. Fabulous team effort! 

Sing Your Pain Away now online! 

Group singing classes for wellbeing, health and fun are now online virtually via Zoom. Meet 

on Thursdays at 2.45pm (Gerrards Cross/Chalfonts/Beaconsfield) and 3pm on Wednesdays 

(Amersham). Singing songs from the 50s & 60s, songs from the shows and ABBA! Sing, laugh 

& dance round in your living room! Contact jane@singyourpainaway.co.uk 

Chiltern Textiles (CETG) 

CETG is keeping in touch with members through weekly newsletters, sharing photos of stitching 

projects, and suggesting online resources and sewing challenges. We hope to support one 

another in our group, and others in our local community, to keep well and carry on stitching. 

For more information on joining visit: www.chilterntextiles.co.uk 

St Peter Players going strong for 72 years! 

The St Peter Players based for over 72 years in 

Chalfont St Peter has been a very active Drama 

Group performing three productions a year in 

March, July and December. 

In December 2019, the St Peter Players performed 

a very high spec show - ‘Seussical The Musical ‘ 

with a thirty strong cast. It was a lot of work but 

also great fun. 

This crisis has meant production and rehearsals are on temporarily hold but If you are interested in 

joining this fun group contact Tina on 01494 837203 / 07798 567 028 W: stpeterplayers.co.uk 


Thames Hospice 

need urgent help 

Honor Blackman 

- rest in peace 


We pay tribute to Honor Blackman who recently 

passed away in April aged 94. She visited Chalfont 

St Peter in December 2013 for a ball themed in 

honour of her starring as Bond girl - Pussy Galore in 

the film Goldfinger for local charity, Williams 

Fund. (www.williamsfund.co.uk) Ms Honor Blackman 

was touched by the charity and was delighted to 

say a few words in front of an audience of around 

300. Guests included residents and local businesses. 

She was seen having a flutter in the casino and was 

very comfortable talking to many of the guests. Ms 

Blackman will be sorely missed and contributed 

greatly to the film industry. 

For the last 3 weeks Thames Hospice in Windsor 

has been supporting the NHS and local 

community by providing end of life care to 

people with and without coronavirus at its Hospice in Windsor and in peoples’ own homes. They have 

seen the number of visits to people at home double in number, and have totally changed the way in 

which they offer care at the Hospice itself to ensure that they are able to keep everyone safe. As a charity, 

the Hospice doesn’t receive any additional funding for this and has suffered a drastic reduction in funds 

because it has had to close all of its shops. If you would like to support Thames Hospice Emergency 

Appeal please visit www.thameshospice.org.uk/hospice-launches-emergency-coronavirus-appeal 

Indigo feed 100’s at Wexham 

Owner of Indigo, Jazz Singh has been quietly and generously 

feeding staff at Wexham Park Hospital since the onset of the 

lockdown in March. He has been providing 100 vegetarian lunches 

every weekday and delivering them personally to staff at A&E and 

ICU. The food has been gratefully received as can be seen from the 

photo. Indigo has had to repurpose and can be found on the A40 

from Tatling End to Gerrards Cross.They are open Friday/Saturday 

and Sundays for takeaway and delivery. e: jeevikaintlltd@aol.com 

t: 01753 883 100 w: www.indigobarandgrill.co.uk 

The Wonky Agency 

your local creative digital agency for 

graphic design / websites / print design / social media 

www.thewonkyagency.com


Keeping children 

active while schools 

are closed 

Since it now seems certain schools are going to 

be closed for some time due to the coronavirus 

pandemic, there is an understandable concern 

amongst parents as to how their children can be 

encouraged to keep physically (and mentally) 

active. 

To promote such activity, the company Skipping 

Workshops hopes children can develop their interest 

in skipping. One strategy is to get children involved, 

on a regular basis, in the ‘National Skipping 

Challenge’. Select ‘National Skipping Challenge’ 

option from the website - details below. 

The website challenge has been popular with many 

schools for over 15 years and every year almost 

1000 children take part. There are three challenges 

for the children to have a go at: continuous crossovers, 

pretzels and double unders. Throughout the 15 

years there has been one simple rule: scores can 

only be submitted by the child’s Skipping Workshops 

coach or by a member of staff at the school. However, 

to encourage children to take an active part during the 

coming months the rule will be suspended and, with 

the permission and support of their parents, children 

will be allowed to send in their own scores. 

All you need to do is to send an email with your name, 

school, category and the score. This will then be 

posted on the website. Children love looking up their 

score and seeing what they need to do to move up 

the league table. If you can manage some crossovers, 

pretzels or double unders, please send in your scores 

as soon as possible. Please note: it is free to take part! 

If any children are keen to take part but don’t have 

their own rope, they can buy one from the online 

shop. In addition, the video page has ideas on 

skipping skills to improve. Happy skipping! 

Website: www.skipping-workshops.co.uk 


33

ENVIRONMENTAL 

Green Goddess 

Author of Save 

Pounds and the Planet 

Hi, I’m Jeannette Buckle 

and I am passionate about 

our planet. In my book I 

share hundreds of planetfriendly 

tips that save you 

time & money too. 

During this coronavirus pandemic, I have put 

together some planet friendly tips we can all try 

at home. 

With no green waste collections and the 

‘recycling centre/tip’ closed, it’s the perfect 

time to start your compost heap, providing 

you with free top soil with minimal effort. 

1. Easy home compost no need to turn away 

anything: start a pile of browns, using twigs 

dry leaves, animal bedding etc on soil, then 

layer with any greens (think vegan diet only - 

grass cuttings, uncooked fruit and veg, tea 

and coffee grounds). Keep repeating, always 

finishing with a layer of greens. This heats up 

your heap quickly, breaking down woody 

material while getting air into the heap with 

layering. Once ready it looks like moist soil, 

crumbly, dark with some twiggy bits. To use, 

roughly mix in a wheelbarrow with spade, then 

put around your plants. Not enough browns? 

Use egg cartons or toilet rolls. Adding compost 

improves soil structure, reduces the need 

to water, encourages healthy plant growth and 

saves on fertilizers. 

2. Try letting the grass grow a bit longer and 

just trimming the top and leave this on the grass 

to add nutrients back. It’s less work & the grass 

will be more drought resistent. 

The average houseold wastes £60 a month on 

food waste! This really is the time to make the 

most of your food and reduce those trips to 

the supermarket. All you need to remember is 

measure & freeze. 

3. Freeze leftovers, milk and sliced bread. Chop 

it up, blend it or grated cheese in portion sizes. 

4. A lot of food waste is rice and pasta (we cook 

too much then bin it). Just get the scales out. 

Dry weight for rice is 50grams or 60g for pasta 

per person. In South Bucks District the food 

waste is still being collected but unfortunately 

Chiltern District Council food waste collections 

have been suspended. 

For an update in Bucks Council services go to: 

https://www.buckinghamshire.gov.uk/ 

coronavirus/service-changes/coronaviruswaste-services-all-districts/ 

For more everyday eco 

friendly tips visit the website 

www.savepoundsandtheplanet.com 

Why not follow me too on 

STEP 1 

Collect clean and dry 

plastic waste at home 

STEP 2 

Find a clean, dry 

2-litre cool drink 

bottle with a lid 

STEP 3 

Compress waste 

into the bottle 

with a stick 

34 

STEP 4 

Pack tightly throughout 

the process to ensure it 

is compressed 

STEP 5 

Put the lid back on and 

your EcoBrick is ready 

to be built with 


Community Together 

Trades Directory 

Share your recommendations with us at trades@communitytogether.co.uk 

CAR SERVICING 

A J Dunlop Car Servicing Ltd 

Free MOTs for NHS and key workers during May 

t: 01494 670 510 

w: ajdunlop.co.uk/online booking 

Chalfont St Giles Motor Company 

One of the best selections of quality used 

vehicles for sale locally. 

t: 01494 873 045 

w: csgmotorcompany.com 

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE 

Back to Life Cleaning Services 

Carpet and upholstery cleaning services 

t: 0800 2118 (Freephone) / 07726 491 580 

w: backtolifecleaningservices.co.uk 

Castle Doors & Windows 

Specialists in the installation of windows, 

doors and conservatories. 

e: sales@castleglasscompany.co.uk 

t: 01494 873 399 

w: castleglasscompany.co.uk 

Chalfont Oven Cleaning 

First class results every time.Ovens, hobs, 

extractors, grills, stoves, microwaves, 

Aga cookers, barbecue trays. 

t: 01753 889 922 / 07950 962 214 

e: stevegoozee@yahoo.co.uk 

Churchill Cooling Services 

Design, installation and maintenance of air 

conditioning equipment 

t: 01494 875 978 / 020 8479 3580 

m: 07920 867 682 

w: www.churchillcooling.co.uk 

ColourFence 

Low maintenance metal garden 

fences that stand the test of time. 

t: 01494 711 400 

e: james.hunter@colourfence.co.uk 

w: colourfencebucks.co.uk 

D Hearn & Sons Painters and Decorators 

Top quality workmanship for all your 

interior and exterior decorating needs. 

t: 01494 784 727 / m: 07888 181 320 

Gutter Pro 

Gutters cleared – no call out charge. 

t: 01628 878 448 

w: www.gutterpro.co.uk 

LRK Window Cleaning 

Windows, gutters, conservatory and orangerie 

roofs, fascia and soffit 

t: 01494 728 077 / m: 07775 499 216 

N. Gillie Decorating Services 

Experienced, friendly professional internal and 

external decorators who have been working in 

the area since 1993. 

t: 01494 681 794 / 07771 521 263 

w: ngilliedecoratingservices.co.uk 

Oliver Twist Chimney Sweep 

Safe, efficient chimney sweeping for open fires, 

stoves or boilers. 

t: 0777 5630 432 

e: olivertwistchimneysweep@yahoo.co.uk 

Tames Tree Services 

All aspects of tree surgery and hedge cutting 

t: 01494 758 862 / m:07788 763 127 

e: vldt2244@aol.com 


35

We're here for 

you. 

If you need to see a private GP in these uncertain 

times, we are still running limited face-to-face 

clinics, have phone and video consultations 

available, and can issue private prescriptions.* 

Mon-Fri: 

Sat: 

8AM - 6PM 

8.30AM - 12 NOON 

Visit: www.your-doctor.co.uk 

Call: 0330 088 2020 

*Some restrictions may apply 

Your health, your choice. 

0330 088 2020

Community Together - May/June Issue combining Beaconsfield Together & Amersham & Chalfont's Together

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