Woolaston News Winter 2022 online (1)

Winter
2022
SUPPORTING WOOLASTON MEMORIAL HALL
Woolaston News
Мир
З Новим роком та Різдвом
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
Мир Мир
Peace
Мир
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
З Новим роком та Різдвом
Wishing you a Peaceful Christmas & New Year

YOUR MARKETING AGENCY
WEBSITES
SOCIAL MEDIA
LOGO DESIGN
GOOGLE ADS (PPC)
EMAIL MARKETING
CONTENT CREATION
STRATEGY & MORE
LET'S HAVE A CHAT ABOUT
YOUR MARKETING
07516875755
rebecca@trumarketing.co.uk
trumarketingservices
www.trumarketing.co.uk

Woolaston News
Winter 2022
SUPPORTING WOOLASTON MEMORIAL HALL
PAGE CONTENTS
Word from the Editor
2 1st Woolaston Guides
4 Woolaston at the time of Queen
Elizabeth’s accension to the throne.
6 Our lives changed in an instant.
8 The Woolaston W.I. planter.
9 1st Woolaston Brownies.
10 W.A.G.S.
12 Woolaston Memory Group.
14 The Platinum Jubilee - Woolaston.
16 Woolaston Wednesday Walkers.
22 Memorial Hall - News from the Chair.
23 CHRISTMAS FARMER’S MARKET.
24-25 Memorial Hall-What’s on?
27 Woolaston Memorial Hall & Playing
Field Committee.
28 Carnival Report.
31 FARMER’S MARKET 2022/23.
38 Our 32 years at Wyvern Garage.
38 Halloween.
39 Woolaston Craft Group.
41 Ukrainian Christmas Star-colouring in.
44 Woolaston Parish Council-
Report-Winter 2022
46 Community Wellbeing Agent.
48 Wine Talk- Winter Warmers......
49 District Councillors.
49 Advertisment Index.
Page 1
This was a year that we discovered how
peace in Europe was not as certain as we
had hoped or dared to imagine. Please
do take time to read Christina’s moving
account of her brave journey to Woolaston,
saying goodbye to her friends and family
in Ukraine (page 6).
This year we also discovered just how
fragile our economy can be and that Prime
Ministers sometimes last for a shorter
time than an item in our fridge. We were
reminded too that what seems to be
permanent can and inevitably must fade
away. Everything must change, new family
members arrive, and others pass away, but
perhaps the passing of Queen Elizabeth
stood for the something of the loss of the
stability in our country we have taken for
granted for so long now.
Remember though that Christmas has been
celebrated through wars and times of great
uncertainty before. Christmas, whether
you celebrate it in a religious sense or
not, is a time of gathering, it is a time
of remembering but also of joy for our
children. Charles Dickens wrote that,
“Time was with most of us, when
Christmas Day, encircling all our limited
world like a magic ring, left nothing out
The cover illustration is
inspired by a traditional,
eight sided Ukrainian
Christmas star. There is one
for you to colour on page 41.

for us to miss or seek; bound together
all our home enjoyments, affections, and
hopes; grouped everything and everyone
round the Christmas fire, and make the
little picture shining in our bright young
eyes, complete”.
Unlike Dickens of course, we have had
lights other than fires to light our childish
eyes. The glow maybe of a radiogram, a
television flickering, a freshly unboxed
Gameboy, a computer screen or TikTok on
a solitary smartphone perhaps. For each
and every one of us Christmas will mean
something different. But our memories
are not built of screens or TV shows,
memories are built by the people we share
our lives with and not the money we spend.
Memories are made of all the anecdotes,
the arguments, the disputed board games,
the laughter and the sadness that we share.
So, whatever you are doing this Christmas,
whether you are in the same room as those
you share your life with, or are separated
by war or work or perhaps by time, make
this Christmas as special as you can and let
it be a peaceful time for us all.
1st Woolaston Guides
We are currently working on a Challenge
badge called ‘SHARE’, this requires the
girls to complete 5 activities from the
categories that spell out the word Share:
‘SHARE’ Badge
Steve
They each designed a poster to advertise Girl
Guiding and encourage others to join us.
Page 2

• Shout out & share • Happy news
• Advertise • Reach out to your
community • Encourage.
They each designed a poster to advertise
Girl Guiding and encourage others to join
us.
They also needed to write an article for
local publication so below they have each
written a reason they like being a Guide.
I think they have explained it perfectly,
describing what we do and what they gain
from Woolaston Guides.
Although our numbers are steadily
growing, we still have some spaces in
• Over the years I have enjoyed
camps, fun games, campfires
and tonnes more activities,
inside and outdoors. I have also
given back to the community
in many ways. It also teaches us
life skills.
• I really like the activities
that are available, you can
make new friends and discover
endless possibilities.
• I really enjoyed going to camp
and sleeping in a tent. I also
like that we get to play lots of
games together and getting to
know new people.
• I enjoyed playing catch your
tail because it was really fun
and it was good teamwork.
• I really enjoyed Guide camp
because the food was good and
there was a zip line.
• I really enjoyed making new
friends and going to the pool
party at Lydney outdoor pool.
our unit and we would welcome any new
girls aged 10 to 14 years, they do not
necessarily need to have been a member of
the Guide Movement before. Why not join
as a group of friends altogether.
We meet at Woolaston Memorial Hall on
Wednesday evenings 7.00pm to 8.30pm.
Our Subs are approx £35 per term (3
times a year). As we are a voluntary
organisation, these subs only cover
rent, materials and insurance which is
excellent value compared to some other
clubs.
• I deeply enjoyed when my
Guide group went on camp
and we did an array of
activities such as Pistol
Shooting, Zip Wire and a
campfire.
• I enjoy just coming to see my
friends that I don’t see at
school. I also enjoyed playing
‘Captains Coming’ where you
have to run to port, starboard,
bow or stern.
• I have enjoyed going on camps
with other Guides that I didn’t
know. I have been chosen to
represent Gloucestershire on a
Guide trip to the Netherlands.
• I like Guides because you get
loads of exciting opportunities
where you can make memories
and lots of friends.
• I liked it when we made posters
to tell people what we do at
Guides.
• I have been on trips to London,
Cadbury World, the cinema
and Harry Potter studios.
For more information contact:
Karen Bennett. Home: 01989 568949 Mobile: 07846231699
Email: jasonbennett568@btinternet.com
Page 3

Woolaston at the time of the
Queen Elizabeth’s Accension to the Throne
Memories of David Harris - Woolaston Resident
When the Queen came to the throne in
1952, I was a pupil at Woolaston School.
I don’t recall much of it but I distinctly
remember the Coronation. The head master
had a television, probably the only one in
Woolaston, and he had all the school into his
living room to watch the proceedings. The
television was very small, only a nine inch
screen. We saw tiny images of the royal coach
and the crown being placed on the Queen’s
head. It was the first time that most of us had
seen a television and we were very impressed.
At the time the school was small, only
three classes each probably had less than
twenty children. We walked to school
unaccompanied, there was little traffic and
we all knew each other. The downside was
that if you were up to no good, your mother
knew about it before you got home. There was
nowhere to hide!
One of the reasons that there were so few
televisions in the village at the time wasn’t
just due to cost. Netherend was the only
part of the village with mains electricity.
A small number of houses had their own
generating plants. One, at Rosemount,
used the electricity to charge people’s
accumulators, which was a large glass
battery that powered the wireless sets.
Electricity was not the only thing we didn’t
have. Most houses did not have a plumbed
water supply. We had to collect water from
a stand pipe on the road side. These were
cast iron and fed by a spring and reservoir
in the Common wood. The stand pipes
were removed when the water supply was
upgraded in the 1960s. Only one of these
remains now - outside Lambrook House.
Without water there was no bathroom and
the toilet was a bucket with a wooden seat
in the orchard. We cooked on a coal fired
range or used a paraffin fuelled Primus
stove. Water was heated by a coal fird
“copper” or in a bucket on the Primus. Our
living conditions were closer to the 19th
century than the 20th !
Page 47
Page 4

Although we lacked the comforts of
modern life we had four pubs and three
bakers who made their own bread. I used
to collect the bread from Tom Eagles on
Ring Fence. He had a wood fuelled oven
which produced lovely crusty bread. He
was known for having bread which was
usually slightly burnt. We had a Post
Office at Brookend, two cider mills, a
railway station from which you could go
anywhere in Britain and a police station
with two cells and a resident police officer.
Milk was either collected from a farm or
delivered to the door in a churn, the milk
being ladled into your own jug. Private
cars were a rarity, people walked, cycled or
caught the bus, although there was a taxi
run by a Mr English who lived at the top of
Spout Hill. There were no housing estates
and accommodation was in short supply.
We shared a three bed roomed cottage
with another family for several years and
for a short time there were three families
resident.
Many of the cottagers kept chickens and
some also had a pig for bacon. Some
had enough land to keep cows. As there
was little farm machinery available at
hay making time’ once the hay was cut
it was turned and gathered by hand. This
was a team effort, neighbours, wives and
older children helping out. The work was
often rewarded with bread, cheese and
cider supplied by the lady of house, and
sometimes with a glass of beer in the
Rising Sun.
Though much has changed in the last 70
years, Woolaston still has a strong sense
of community and remains a great place to
live.
David Harris
WE NEED YOUR HELP! Please join
The Memorial Hall’s
Fund Raising
Win £25,000
and many other
prizes every week
for as little as £1
per week!!
Lottery
IT’S SO EASY — just go to
www.unitylottery.co.uk
Or call 0370 050 9240
(Remember to choose
Woolaston Memorial Hall!!)
Or call John Anderson
01594 529523
50% of all your stake money goes directly to the hall ‘s funds!
Page 5

Our Lives Changed
in an Instant.
Have you ever wondered if war would
happen again, when you were learning
history of World War II?
For me, the word “War” has always
been equivalent to the word “Dinosaur”.
Something in the distant past.
So, without any thought, on February
23rd, my classmates and I came back to
our desks for the first time after a long
quarantine. I plunged headlong into the
study of TV journalism and was very
happy to be doing something I like. I fell
asleep with my plans for the next day
and with dreams of my future the same
evening. And I woke up from my mother’s
call with the words: “Honey? there are
explosions in Kyiv. The war has begun!”
“Mum, It’s fake, there is quiet here, I am
sleeping. Don’t worry about me.” With
these words our conversation ended. But I
didn’t go back in bed. The next days were
like a blur.
At 7 am in the morning, all the students
were sent to the bomb shelter, where we
were for the whole day, panic reigned
everywhere, grocery stores emptied almost
immediately, public transport stopped
working, and there was only one thing in
my head: “What will happen next?” When I
realised that the situation was getting worse,
I decided to go to Hungary to my sister.
There were countless people who did not
know where to look for help at the Kyiv
railway station, most of them simply
jumped into random evacuation trains. But
even this turned out to be a task with an
asterisk, because there was an unreal crowd
of people, including children and women.
They just fell off the train. Luckily, I was
one of the first in the carriage, but I cannot
say it was comfortable: 4 people sat in the
seat of one passenger - the rest stood all the
way to Lviv.
Our life before the war. Practice on TV.
Page 6

I had to wait for another train all night in
Lviv. Even the most expensive hotels were
occupied that moment. I had no choice
but to join the people at the station and
just fall asleep on the cold, dirty floor with
my laptop bag in my embrace and I was
imagining my family around me. Even
children slept next to me. All halls were
filled with people. Even then I felt very
tired and hungry, everywhere was noisy and
many strangers surrounded me, but I did not
give up.
My train arrived on another track in the
morning. People without tickets were not
allowed to enter. At the last seconds, when
the train was moving, I thought I lost my
salvation, but I ran to it. Fortunately, I had a
ticket and quickly jumped into the carriage.
From that moment on, I felt relatively safe.
On the Hungarian border, volunteers met
refugees, fed them and helped them find
housing.
Like most Ukrainians, I had worked at
a Hungarian automobile factory for 7
months. All this time, I felt like I was
in a hole: I could not develop and do
my favorite thing, communicate freely
with new people because I did not know
the language. I also had to sacrifice my
The 27th of February.
Lviv railway station.
health for such an existence there. Every
day I kept thinking about the “Homes
for Ukraine” scheme, but it seemed to
me something unreal and beyond my
capabilities. Nevertheless, one day I finally
decided that I wanted to change my present
and future life.
The 19th of October. Me and my sponsor family.
The 26th of February. Kyiv railway station.
I have never once regretted that I somehow
gave myself a chance and went through all
the difficulties. I feel absolutely happy and
grateful to my sponsor family and all the
British people for the warm welcome and
great support now.
Christina Zabuga
Page 7

Beanhill Farm B & B
Offers a warm and friendly
home from home welcome in
beautiful surroundings.
Comfortable rooms with tea
and coffee available.
Full breakfast menu to suit
all appetites
Contact Judy Taylor on
01594 528143
The Woolaston
W.I. Planter
Driving into Woolaston from the A48, you
may have noticed the large planter on your
left on the village green, on the corner of
Ash Way. You may not be aware that this
is the “WI planter”. It was constructed
in 2016 to commemorate the founding
of Woolaston Women’s Institute (WI) 70
years previously, in 1946.
The planter was initially set out with
lavenders and the Women’s Institute rose,
“Inspiration”, inter-planted with annuals
and perennials. Currently, it is looked after
by WI members Amy Barker-Benfield,
Miriam Corringham and Anne Wickham.
Amy has added height and colour in the
form of a raised hanging basket filled with
seasonal plants.
From time to time, we have also had a bit
of fun with the planter, which we hope has
brought a smile to your face as you drive
past:
Anne Wickham
1. W.I.’s 75 th anniversary, June 2021
2. 2022, support for Ukraine and a
Woolaston Warbler’s eggs
3. Scarecrow Trail, February 2021
4. Christmas lights, December 2020
For an online version of the Woolaston News go to:
www.woolastonmh.org.uk
Please continue to support the Woolaston News
with your adverts and articles.
(Articles) Steve/Yvonne Thompson at -
(Adverts) John Anderson at -
yvonne@yvonneart.co.uk
john@japsplans.co.uk
Summer issue deadline end of April
Page 8

1. 2.
3. 4.
1st Woolaston Brownies
This is my last term as Leader at 1st
Woolaston Brownies but I will be on
standby if needed. The new leader will be
Rachael Crabb who has previously run a
unit in Berkshire and Hannah Greenslade
will continue as Assistant Leader. The Unit
will be in good hands as it heads towards
its 50th birthday in 2026.
Page 9
This year started with the Brownies
working towards a badge Know Myself
Network. Using games and activities they
had challenges to learn to be a successful
Team Player, how to solve problems, being
a friend detective to learn more about their
friends and what makes a good one. They
(Continued on page 10)

(Continued from page 9)
also learned about the wider world of
Guiding by writing to other brownies
around the country and receiving letters
back.
For Thinking Day they made Piñatas
and heard what it was like to spend a
year working at a Girlguiding World
Centre in Switzerland. In March we
celebrated St Patricks Day making
Leprechaun Hats and learning about
Saints Days, flags and emblems. For
Mothers Day they made chocolates and
Gift Bags.
Obviously this summer was dominated
with Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum
Jubilee activities and some Brownies
went to our County HQ for the lighting
of a Beacon followed by a night
camping in the grounds. We hosted a
District Activity Evening at Woolaston
for Rainbows, Brownies and Guides.
The girls enjoyed being Cheer Leaders
in the Carnival. To finish the term we
had a swim session at Lydney Pool.
They are now well on their way to get
their Have Adventures Explore Badge
having learnt how to be safe whilst out
walking and taking care of their feet.
We walked around the village to learn
about the Country Code, made their
own magnets and how to find north and
how to find places on a map and why
it’s important not to bring certain items
into the country after being on holiday.
They learnt about the Stars and the
Planets through songs, crafts and games
and looking at the night sky projected
onto the hall kitchen ceiling (the only
ceiling without lots of light fixtures).
We celebrated Diwali making LLadu
sweets and diwali candle holders.
In December some of the girls are
going on a Hogwarts Pack Holiday with
other units in Forest South Division to
our County HQ at Deer Park, Cowley.
The Brownies are looking forward to
going to see Snow White Pantomime in
Tewkesbury in December but sad that
Woolaston Amateur Garden
Society - WAGS
WAGS has had a very successful year so
far since the re-start after Covid lockdown.
Membership has increased since April.
Meetings have included a conducted and
very informed tour of the Village Orchard;
Beekeeping; plants to attract butterflies and
moths to our gardens, climbing shrubs and
clematis and an extremely interesting talk
on Islamic Gardens. Not to mention the
tour of Bristol Botanic Gardens led by The
Curator of the BBG who happens to be our
President, Nick Wray.
We had our usual plant stall at the village
celebrations in June for the late Queen’s
platinum jubilee.
An open gardens afternoon for members
was held in August followed that evening
by a barbecue held at the Netherend Inn
when a competition was judged for original
sculptures made from flowerpots! Linda
Lewis won Best in Class for her Spider
flower pots and Di Wakefield for most
unusual design!
We are extremely grateful to those garden
owners for permitting us to wander round
their gardens and view all their hard work
A huge thank you to all our hosts.
Plans are in hand for a demonstration of
making table decorations for Christmas at
the December meeting. February will be
Page 10

they will not see Craig Revel Horwood in Bristol
Hippodrome as they booked us in on the wrong day.
Anita Mott,
Hannah Greenslade,
Rachael Crabb
and Young Leader Hannah.
We meet in the Memorial Hall Thursday at 6.00pm to 7.30pm
We have spaces in January - For girls age 7yrs to 10yrs
Register your daughter @ Girlguiding UK or visit us at the hall.
Email:-woolastonbrownies1st@gmail.com
a talk on perennials for the whole year and
in March the talk will be on ornamental
grasses.
Regular meetings are held normally on
the first Thursday of each month in the
Memorial Hall. Posters of upcoming
meetings are displayed in the village shop
window and the Woolaston Community
Page.
Membership is £15 per person or £25 for
a family ticket and we always welcome
visitors at a nominal charge of £3 per
meeting.
Give us a try!
Chrissie Hugill - Secretary
November 2022
Page 11
Why not join
Woolaston Garden Lovers
Facebook Group.

WOOLASTON MEMORY GROUP
Woolaston Memory Group Thursdays - at 2 - 4pm
Woolaston Memory Group meets
weekly at Woolaston Village Hall
and our aim is to support Carers
who are looking after someone with
dementia or memory loss.
We are a very friendly group and
enjoy cups of coffee and lovely
cake during the meetings. Each
session is different and although
fairly informal we have an activity
each week for carers and their
cared-for to take part in. These
can range from craftwork, gentle
exercise sessions, games and
puzzles, and singing, among others.
We have also had the occasional
trip out to museums and have even
had a trip on a disabled-friendly
boat. The most recent visit was
just this week when we paid a visit
to Oakham Treasures at Portbury,
which is fantastic place to take a
trip down memory lane.
We aim to make it a place where
carers can get support and find
friendship and understanding
and where there is a stimulating
environment for those living with
dementia or memory loss.
Miriam
Parking is available at the Village Hall.
Woolaston
Tea # Cake # Friendship
Memory Group
For more details call Miriam on 077532 70684
Thursdays Page - 12 at 2 - 4pm

Country
Lodge Cars
(AT WYVERN GARAGE)
Cars to suit all budgets and lifestyles
Vehicles sourced to order
Part exchange available
Come and view our stock or browse
Phone Richard
07380 848262
our website—
www.countrylodgecars.co.uk
Page 13

Woolaston Celebrates the Platinum Jubilee of
HM Queen Elizabeth
As part of the national celebrations, Woolaston Parish Council
arranged events to celebrate the historical milestone of HM Queen
Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee 2 – 6 June 2022
Telephone box decorated for the jubilee by
Sue Anderson and Shirley Lightbound
The parish council were contacted by a
number of residents and their families
including Valerie Lawrence, Mary Cole
(nee Saunders), and Patricia Powell (nee
Prakel) who lived in Woolaston in 1952
when the young Princess was crowned
Queen Elizabeth II – they all still live in
the village today. Mary said that although
they did not have a TV in 1952, they
knew something special was happening.
Other residents (Jacky Weller, and Marian
Knight) were too young to remember the
occasion, but like many other residents,
were pleased to be able to enjoy the long
bank holiday weekend to celebrate the
Platinum Jubilee with their family and
friends. (Councillor David Harris also
lived in the village in 1952 - you can read
his account of life in Woolaston in the
coronation year in a separate article).
In the run up to the jubilee weekend, the
parish council asked residents to decorate
Residents of Ash Way celebrate the Platinum Jubilee
Page 14

their homes in honour of HM Queen
Elizbeth. It was great to see the vast
array of patriotic bunting and flags which
decorated homes and streets of Woolaston.
Residents certainly went to town!
The two households who were voted the
winners of the best decorated houses were
presented with a small hamper of goodies.
The parish council thanks everyone who
decorated their homes and surrounding
areas and contributed to the fabulous
display in the parish.
On Saturday 4 June, there was a short
‘ceremony’ to celebrate the Queen’s
Platinum Jubilee. Councillor David Harris,
a resident in 1952 and still living in the
village today, unveiled a plaque to dedicate
a new flowering cherry tree, planted by
the parish council as part of the Queen’s
Green Canopy in which communities
were encouraged to ‘Plant a tree for the
Jubilee’. The council also provided a new
wooden planter which was planted up with
plants and flowers donated by local florists
“Common Wood Flowers.”
home. A wonderful time was had by all,
with some residents partying long into the
evening!
It was great to see so many residents
soaking up the atmosphere and taking
part in the many street parties around the
village, even with the typical English
summer weather threatening to put a
dampener on proceedings. The weather
did not, however, prevent the village from
marking this landmark anniversary in style.
Gillian Orchard Preece
Clerk to Woolaston Parish Council
On Sunday 5 June, the parish council
provided tables around the parish for
residents to host their own individual
“street parties.” The Women’s Institute
decorated the tables and provided lovely
posies of flowers for parishioners to take
Jacky Weller (a resident in 1952) and family at the unveiling of the cherry tree planted to
celebrate the Platinum Jubilee
Page 15

Woolaston Wednesday Walkers
We started the May season with a trip
towards Rodmoor Mill, through the beautiful
Redwood trees and enjoyed an amazing
display of bluebells.
Mid-May gave us a lovely warm day. We
went through Severn View Road, heading
towards Keynsham Lane, with accessible
footpaths as the fields had been ploughed for
planting. If you are a landowner / worker
PLEASE be kind to walkers and where
possible leave footpaths accessible and look
at broken stiles.
Once a month we walk away from the
village, usually enjoying a new route and
a lunch out. For May, we visited a very
interesting historical part of Trellech. The
Church is beautiful and in the surrounding
area there are many wooden carvings and
historical stones dating back many years.
Plus, we had a wonderful view of Sugar
Loaf. We also had a couple of very wet walks
that month!
In June we took many local walks
appreciating beautiful flowers in gardens and
fields, happily with no rain. On one of them
we took a different path to Clanna, across
Woolaston common, returning to the village
via Cone Brook.
For the first time, for the monthly out of the
village walk, a few of us travelled to France
to walk with Roger Higgs, who often visited,
and joined in our walks, (his mother Barbara,
sadly passed away and much missed, lived in
the village).
We received a very warm welcome from
Roger and Linda, who shared with us
beautiful food and copious amounts of wine,
also a few lovely walks. The walking was
restricted due to the immense heat. However,
it was still a very happy visit.
July gave us a very strange walking
experience as due to road and rail closures
we were able to cross over busy roads and
tracks safely to enjoy three weeks of walks
around the village and surrounding areas.
Plus, a trip to the river.
At the end of the month, we visited Cledden
falls, though thankfully there were no
walking falls.
Then came the school holidays; we had the
company of some of the younger generation,
instead of beer and chips at The Rising Sun,
it was milkshakes and ice creams. Oh, my
mistake, some of the regular group still had
beer and chips!
The following week a large group enjoyed
an easy walk around the village, towards
Sandtumps into Woodside, roughly 4 1/2
miles circular back to the Rising Sun.
At the beginning of August Miriam and
Tim hosted a barbecue, which was a HUGE
success, so big thanks to them both.
Mid-August and down came the rain. That
week we went out of the village, we walked
to Bradly Hill. Although a bit challenging at
times, and a bit wet, it was still a good walk.
September brought very mixed weather,
but we still enjoyed exploring the area
surrounding our village. There are lots of
beautiful places to visit and so many fantastic
views and it’s a great way to see the changing
seasons.
October meant that jackets were required,
not so much for the wet weather but for
more warmth. It got chilly. The fields were
ploughed again so we were back in muddy
boots. We managed a very uphill climb, all of
us were out of breath, but it was well worth it
as the views were, well, breathtaking!
As mid-October took hold the streams were
still dry but rain is on its way.
If anyone is tempted to join us, we meet at
10am Wednesday at The Rising Sun. Most
of our walks are between 4 to 5 miles, most
easy, some more challenging but all hugely
rewarding.
Amy
Page 16

CHRIS’S FRUIT
& VEG
DELIVERED FRESH TO YOUR
DOOR!
HOME BOX DELIVERIES TOO
TIDENHAM CHASE NP16 7EE
07474 288256 01291 620145
cfveg@msn.com
Perfect Hand Made Christmas Gifts
Find us online at
www.montysgarden.co.uk
Use the code Wooly15 for 15% off and free local
delivery.
Page 17

01594 841555
UNIT 9 THE MARINA, HARBOUR ROAD,
LYDNEY, GLOUCESTERSHIRE GL15 5ET
Email info@ltaservices.co.uk
We offer a full range of motoring services and auto repair from MOT
testing, tyres, exhausts, brakes and batteries to full servicing. Talk to us
to arrange competitive bodywork repairs and quotes. Call us now for...
• Free Estimates
• Collection & Delivery
• Fast & reliable Service
• Competitive Rates
• Courtesy Cars Available
• All Work Guaranteed
Common Wood
Flowers
Locally Grown British Flowers
For all occasions.
www.commonwoodflowers.co.uk
commonwoodflowers@gmail.com
Tel: 07818 083690
Page 18

GREETINGS TO YOUR HOME
Supplying a wide range of greetings cards for all occasions
including local artist and photography cards
Now with online shopping at
07948 031255 www.greetingstoyourhome.co.uk
*For FREE DELIVERY enter code : FREEGL15
Swan House Tea
Room
Cone Valley, Woolaston.
Morning Coffee, Light Lunches
& Afternoon Tea
Venue & catering available for special occasions.
Telephone 01594 528365
Email info@swanhousetearoom.com
www.swanhousetearoom.com
Takeaway menu available
during lock down.
Fully licensed
Page 19

ETHICAL GOLDSMITH
RECYCLE YOUR OLD JEWELLERY
WEDDING, ETERNITY
& ENGAGEMENT RINGS
REMODELLING & REPAIRS
The Studio
WORKSHOPS @ ANNA FINE JEWELLERY
MAKE YOUR OWN
WEDDING RINGS
JEWELLERY MAKING
EXPERIENCE DAYS
PRIVATE TUITION
www.annafinejewellery.co.uk Taurus Crafts, • 07480 Lydney, 064834 GL15 6BU
Page 20

07801 740 516 or 01594 862 976
glennthechimneysweep@outlook.com
www.howatschimneysweeps.ltd
Professional Chimney Sweeps - Certificate issued with every sweep
Chimney Sweeping
We’ll ensure your chimney is
clean, safe and ready to use.
Stove Service & Repair
Qualified to carry out services.
Repairs to any appliance, e.g.
fireglass, brick and rope.
Accessories
Stove polish, glass cleaner, tar
treatment and much more.
Cowl Fitting
Stop draughts, leaks and
wildlife in their tracks with
our cowl fitting service.
A.R.H.
ELECTRICAL
Home and Business
Rewires, New Installations
Outdoor Buildings, Garages, Sheds and Lighting
Electric Vehicle Charging Points
Landlord Certificates
Small Job Specialist
Contact Alan -
01594 531493
07883 973363
Email arh_electrical@yahoo.co.uk
Customer Focused
Page 21

Memorial Hall
Page 22
News from the Chair
www.woolastonmh.org.uk for information, hall events and online W oolaston News
I have enjoyed writing these reports
for Wooly News over the past nine
years. I have enjoyed, actually, being
Chairman. But now its time for
someone younger and better looking
to take up the reins. I am stepping
down (or by the time you read this,
will have stepped down) from being
Chair. I know, I know - you are all
sking yourselves how is it possible
to find someone better looking?
Younger, yes. But better looking….?
Some of you may be familiar with
how I became chairman in the first
place. It came a surprise to me, I can
tell you! I had time (as well as a few
pints of Guinness) on my hands when
I volunteered to attend a couple of
committee meetings a year following
a vacancy created by the sad passing
of the previous treasurer. At my
first meeting the current chairman
promptly resigned – and I was duly
elected! Talk about deep ends!! It
was a sharp learning curve but over
the past nine years we have been
able to build on the fine work that
was done previously. I have to say at
this point that I have been very well
supported by all committee members
past and present who give their time
to ensure the smooth running of the
hall and events. Special mention to
Mark Lightbound who has been our
treasurer throughout my tenure. He
has kept our finances in good order
and offered support and wisdom
to any and all of my wish lists of
projects.
When Jacky Weller resigned as
booking secretary, I took on that
role for a while too, and quickly
realised there was a lot more to it
than I could cope with. So thanks
must go to my good lady, Sue, for
joining the committee and taking the
booking secretary’s role on. Sue has
initiated and argued for many of the
improvements, promoted the hall and
thoroughly transformed the booking
system to the point where the hall is
now more popular than ever.
But may I make a plea here?
The hall needs people from the
community to run it. Ideally people
who have the spare time and
enthusiasm to give a little bit back
to the community in which we live.
There is great “job satisfaction“
involved as well as making likeminded
friends. Without an active
committee the hall would have
to close and be mothballed, so

come and join us to ensure the
hall remains open, warm, wellappointed
and well-equipped for
the next few years and beyond.
Thank you.
When I look back through all my
previous contributions to the Woolly
News (the first was in Winter 2013!)
I notice the number of changes and
improvements we have been able to
achieve. In that vein, I am pleased
to report that there are now 2 new
table tennis tables with sufficient bats
and balls for two doubles matches
at the same time, waiting to be used.
You are welcome to use them if you
happen to be in the hall for another
event, but if you want to book the
hall specially, then go to our website
– www.woolastonmh.org.uk and
follow the “book the hall” links.
Enjoy!!
Hold the front page! At our AGM last
night (where were you all?) someone
younger and a lot better looking than
me was persuaded to become the
Chair. Welcome to the hot seat - Sue
Anderson! The hall is in safe hands.
Finally, in these straightened times,
may I wish you all a very happy and
peaceful Christmas.
John Anderson
Chairman (Now, Vice-Chair)
18/10/2022
CHRISTMAS FARMERS’ MARKET
–
Page 23

Woolaston Memorial Hall
Day
CLASSES & GR
What’s On?
g Bright Modern Hall
g
g
g
g
g
g
Seats 70 People
Fully Accessible
Quality Audio-Visual System
Great Kitchen Facilities
Outside Area Available
Gazebos for Hire
ALSO AVAILABLE TO HIRE -
Large Round Tables (seat 8)
Bistro/Cafe Tables
Junior Size Tables and Chairs
(suitable for kids parties)
6ft and 4ft light weight, folding tables
Want to set up a Regular Group?
We offer reduced rates for
regular groups.
Contact:
Shirley Lightbound (01594529046)
or John Hayward (07971 660559)
at
bookings@woolastonmh.org.uk
Page 24
MON
TUES
WED
THURS
FRI
SAT
Silver
Steps/Active
Balance
Yoga
Craft Group
Trefoil Guild
Art/Painting
Group
Women’s
Institute
JKs Kidz Play
Guides
Zumba
Woolaston
Memory
Group
Brownies
Parish Council
Meetings
WAGS
Dru Yoga
Woolaston
Football Club
Want to set u

OUPS FOR YOU AT WOOLASTON MEMORIAL HALL
When? About Contact details
10:45 – 12:15 Gentle exercise class for
seniors.
7:30pm – 9:00pm
1 st & 3 rd Monday
1:30pm – 3:30pm
FODDC Health Delivery Leader:
gary.deighton@fdean.gov.uk
Class led by Michelle Gardiner
07790 025743
Time for your own wellbeing, Sian on 0787257 1934
Yoga can help.
sianrule@gmail.com for a free
introductory class.
A social craft group. Bring your
own crafts. Gaynor Cooke 01594 529521
Monthly on
2 nd Tuesday
10am – 12 noon
The Trefoil Guild offers a warm
welcome to every adult, who
wish to maintain their links with
or enjoy new links with Guiding.
Jacky Weller –
07496871188
wackyjeller@tiscali.co.uk
Term Time
2pm – 4pm
Monthly on 3 rd
Tuesday
7:30pm – 9:30pm
9:30am –
12:30pm
Term time
7:00pm – 8:30pm
9:30am –
10:30am
2:00pm – 4:00pm
Term Time
6:00pm – 7:30 pm
Monthly on 2 nd
Thursday
Starts at 8:00 pm.
Monthly on 1 st
Thursday
Starts at 8pm
10:00 – 11:15
A sociable art/painting group.
Providing women with
educational opportunities and
friendship.
Soft Play and Messy Play for
babies and toddlers.
Always keen to welcome new
members.
Get yourself fit with this Latin
inspired dance workout.
A social group for people with
dementia and their Carers.
Always keen to welcome new
members.
Serving the Community
Woolaston Amateur Garden
Society – Enjoy talks about all
things gardening.
Please bring a Mat, Blankets,
Cushions, and any other
support.
Di Wakefield 01594 529542
wakefielddi@hotmail.co.uk
Mary Greenslade 01594 529617
Kelly Phillips
07703013124
JKsKidzPlay@hotmail.com
Jacky Weller 07496871188 and
Karen Bennett via email
jasonbennett568@btinternet.com
White Lotus Martial Arts and
Zumba:
Michelle: 07790 025743
Miriam Corringham
miriam@corringham.org
07753 270684
Angela Alcock 01594-564547
Rachael Crabb and Hannah
Greenslade.
woolastonbrownies1st@gmail.
com
Parish.Clerk@woolaston.org.uk
Chrissie Hugill
chrissiehugill@gmail.com
Bonnie Jones 07775721602
Saturday
afternoons during
the football
season.
New Players Welcome!
Martin Rose;
07789 934452
p a Regular Group? We offer reduced rates for regular groups.
Page 25
Email: bookings@woolastonmh.org.uk

Why not join
Woolaston CommunityFacebook Group.
Page 26

Woolaston Memorial Hall & Playing Field Committee
Officers
Chairman:
Sue Anderson
(55 Birchwood Rd GL15 6PE -
529523)
Vice Chairman:
John Anderson
(55 Birchwood Rd GL15 6PE -
529523)
Members
David Reith (07947128869)
Martin Rose (07789934452)
(Woolaston AFC
& Parish Council)
Andrew Morgan-Watts (07921842407)
Richard Dunstan (07901138236)
Hon. Treasurer:
Mark Lightbound
(64 Severn View Rd GL15 6NP -
529046)
Hall Bookings Officers
Shirley Lightbound - (529046) and John Hayward - (07971 660559)
bookings@woolastonmh.org.uk
Page 27

Carnival Report June 2022
Our first Carnival after two years
of Covid restrictions got off to
a roaring start with motorbikes
parading around the village, led
by Mark and Shirley Lightbound
flying the Union Flag. Bikes
of different vintages certainly
woke everyone up to the start of
Woolaston Carnival 2022.
The Traditional Parade was a
quieter affair with pom-pom
dancers, llamas, donkeys, some
vintage cars and a fun family
float. To be honest, the lack of
floats was a tad disappointing,
but hopefully next year we’ll
be back up to the usual high
Woolaston standard. So, start
planning your family, friends,
and group floats for next year
to help resurrect the wonderful
Traditional Parade.
Once again, the weather for our
Carnival was glorious and we
had a fantastic turnout.
Mega Bounce provided a range
of fairground activities including
a gigantic blow-up slide which
even toddlers braved. Adults
enjoyed the laser clay pigeon
shooting as well as the very
reasonably priced Woolaston
Memorial Hall Bar.
Page 28
To the sounds of the fantastic
Chepstow Big Band, carnival
goers browsed around the stalls,
giving the llamas, donkey, and
the shire horse a passing pat and
found themselves bumping into
people they hadn’t seen since
before Covid. “Oh! Hello! I
haven’t seen you for ages.”

Forest Hog Roast’s burgers and
Chase Farm’s ice cream soon
sold out as did the cakes from
the café.
Of course, only Woolaston
has its own fly past c/o Mike
Lewis in his plane direct from
“Woolaston Airport”. Thank
you, Mike.
Most popular was the Dog Show
organised by Jordan and Antony
Ransome with some champion
dogs proudly wearing their
rosettes.
The Tug of War was hugely
competitive with neck and arm
muscles bulging. Kids were just
as competitive as the adults.
There must have been some very
sore hands for a couple of days.
As always, the Grand Raffle was
well supported with generous
prizes of £250, Dinner Bed and
Breakfast in a top hotel, car
MOT plus more.
Big thanks go to the Explorer
Scouts who helped to put up and
take down all the market stalls
and the huge marquee donated
by John Hayward.
Thanks to our small but
amazing committee and our
super dependable volunteers,
a great afternoon was had by
everyone and………Woolaston
Memorial Hall raised just over
£2000 which will go towards
our continuous improvement
programme.
Sue Anderson
Page 29

WYVERN GARAGE
Brookend, Woolaston, GL15 6PW
01594 529298
phil@wyverngarage.co.uk
MOTs - Car Servicing and Repairs -
Air Conditioning - Tyres
Citroen & Peugeot Specialists
For All Your Car Requirements -
- All Makes And Models Welcome
WE’LL KEEP YOU SMILING ON THE ROAD!
Page 30

Small, friendly and bursting with
fantastic local produce
Woolaston
FARMERS’
MARKET
2022/2023
Saturday 10am to 1pm
17th September 2022
17th December 2022
18th March 2023
17th June 2023
16th September 2023
16th December 2023
Fruit, vegetables, bakery, confectionery
meat, eggs, pies, pastries, preserves,
sauces, dressings and refreshments.
There’s something for everyone!
Page 31

Holistic
Therapies
Massage
Reflexology
Aromatherapy
Indian Head
Massage
Hopi Ear Candles
Hot Stone
Therapy
OAK BARN
THERAPIES
BEAUTY & BALANCE
PROPRIETOR
Bonnie Jones
I.I.H.H.T., I.F.R. Dip
A Member of The
International Federation
of Reflexologists
Tel: 01594 529717
Mob: 07775 721602
Complimentary
Therapies
Luxury Jessica
Pedicure
Tropic Skincare
Facials
Himalayan Salt
Crystal Stone
Therapy Massage
Reiki Healing
tropicskincare.co.uk/shop/bonniejones
QUALITY WORK
Comes As
Standard
WE ARE PROUD TO OFFER OVER 30 YEARS
EXPERIENCE IN PLUMBING
Shower Rooms — Bathrooms — Kitchens
www.baileyheatingplumbing.co.uk
Phone: 01594 842777 or 07770 571886
Email paul@baileyheatingplumbing.co.uk
Unit 10 Aylburton Business Park Stockwell Lane GL15 6ST
Page 32

Professional aborcultural contractors
• Private and local
authority estate
and parkland
management
• Local authority
clearance and
maintenance
• Highways safety
clearance
• Milling and stump
grinding
Fully insured and qualified experts
01594 529893
07843 688229
enquiries@trunkarb.co.uk • www.trunkarb.co.uk
Page 33

The Old School, Viney Hill, Lydney, Glos. GL15 4ND
Physiotherapy, Pilates,
Massage,
Acupuncture and Counselling.
For all your aches and pains, sports injuries, arthritis, back
pain, whiplash, joint or muscle pain, etc
01594 516810
www.vineyhallphysio.co.uk
A warm and friendly welcome awaits you at our
GURKHA
RESTAURANT & BAR
We offer a full range of motoring services and auto repair from MOT
Open 7 days a week.
testing, tyres, exhausts, brakes and batteries to full servicing. Talk to us
Lunch 12.00—2pm, Dinner 5—10.30pm
to arrange competitive bodywork repairs and quotes. Call us now for...
UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT
• Free 01594 Estimates
529222
Bed and Breakfast,
Email—info@woolastoninn.co.uk
• Collection & Delivery
Birthdays and Family Parties
Website • www.woolastoninn.co.uk
Fast & reliable Service
Takeaways—10% Discount!!
Indulge in Authentic and Freshly Prepared Nepalese Cuisine
Page 34
WOOLASTON INN
COME AS A GUEST - LEAVE AS A FRIEND

blatchly Mathern Magazine advert v2.qxp_420 15/04/2019 12:29 Page 1
FUNERAL SERVICE
24 HOUR SERVICE
PRE-PAID FUNERAL PLANS
CHAPELS OF REST
& Son Ltd
M.B.I.E., M.N.A.F.D., M.B.I.F.D., Dip FD., B.R.A.M.M
Serving The Local Community for Over 50 Years
WOOLASTON (01594) 529345
Highcroft House, Woolaston, Lydney
CHEPSTOW (01291) 624939
5 Station Road, Chepstow
• • • •
MONUMENTAL MASONS
• Monumental Showrooms
• Large Stocks Available
• Vases & House Names
www.philipblatchly.co.uk
• • • •
LYDNEY (01594) 842877
Regents Court, Regent Street, Lydney
• • • •
Private Service Chapel
• • • •
INDEPENDENT FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Philip Blatchly
Philip R. Blatchly
CALDICOT (01291) 430468
London House, 14 Chepstow Road, Caldicot
Page 35

J & H DAVIES
Building and Landscaping Services
Over 30 years experience. Based in St Briavels
Block Paving - Wooden and Composite Decking - Patios
Stonework - Brickwork - Hedge and Grass Cutting
Fencing - Extensions and Alterations
Property Maintenance
For a free quotation call or email
01594 531408
billandben01@gmail.com
TUDOR ROSE CARPENTRY
All Aspects of Carpentry and Joinery
Box Sash Repairs and Replacements
Doors, Windows and Kitchens
Wooden Flooring
Bespoke Bedroom Furniture and Wardrobes
For Free Advice and Quotations, contact
R Barnfield
barney.trc@gmail.com
01594 837718 07919 436935
25 The Paddocks, Coleford, GL16 7PX
Page 36

S C GEORGE & SON
Friendly and Reliable.
Brakes,
Tyres,
MOTs,
Motor Mechanics:
Shaun and Adam
sgunit13@yahoo.co.uk
Diagnostic,
Servicing
Unit 13
Aylburton Business Centre
GL15 6ST
01594 842366
07902 716000
J.A.P.S.
Website: japsplans.co.uk
Email: john@japsplans.co.uk
Tel 01594 529523 Mobile: 07768 936553
Page 37

Our 32 years at Wyvern Garage
Nick and Amy were enjoying a holiday in
Morocco. Whilst Philip was enjoying the
freedom of riding his motorcycle around
the country without worrying mum. Upon
our return he told us he had found the
perfect Garage, we had been looking for a
few years. He was right. Nick has been in
the motor trade all his working life, Amy
had a very short spell working at a garage
forecourt (dream fun job) Philip was just
being a teenager. Daughter Helen training
to be a chef.( now a food writer).
Halloween
Page 38

We upped sticks in 1990 leaving our home,
and precious family, in Hampshire.
We knew no one here, our new neighbours
were very kind. Thank you.
We made a big expensive mistake in
1993/4 we built a petroleum station. A
while later Tesco was built in Lydney and
Chepstow, both with petroleum forecourts,
we could not compete so sadly had to
close.
The workshop was thriving, with Philip
learning workshop skills, plus office.
Amy worked in the office until technology
overtook, only helping out when needed.
So semi retired, retained as tea girl.
Andy joined the team 18 years ago, he is
still with us with his immense wealth of
knowledge.
In 2015 Nick also ( sort of) retired and
handed the reigns to Philip. He is now the
sole owner.
The forecourt has always been rented out
to Richard and Mark Country Lodge Car’s,
They have a great selection, come and have
a look.
The workshop covers most makes of cars
at reasonable prices, come and check
Wyvern Garage 01594 529 298.
A huge Thank you to Woolaston for
our 32 happy years. Warm welcome &
friendships.
Nick & Amy
The children were out in force on
Halloween Night, under their parents
supervision. The Trick or Treaters were
out and about despite the heavy rain
determined to enjoy themselves having
missed out for the last two years because of
Covid. So much effort had gone into their
costumes which stood up to the rain.
They all knew that they should only knock
on those houses that had lit pumpkins
or other Halloween decorations set up
outside.
All the children were very polite and a
credit to their parents and plenty of sweets
were piled into their buckets.
A check up at the dentist will be their next
Treat!
Sue Anderson
Page 39
Woolaston
Craft Group
Now that autumn is here and the
children are back at school, why not
bring along your craft and join us for
a cuppa and a chat. It doesn’t matter
what craft you bring or whether you are
experienced or not, there is likely to be
someone who can help. We are a very
informal, social group and everybody
will be made welcome.
We meet in Woolaston Memorial Hall
on 1st and 3rd Monday every month
and pay £2.00 per session if paid in
advance or £3.00 per session on the
day.
If you would like more information
contact Gaynor Cooke on
01594529521 or better still come along
and try it. Our dates for the rest of the
year are November 7th and 21st and
restarting on January 16th

Seasoned Barn Stored Firewood For Sale
Free Local Delivery
Call:
Daniel Haines 07930 893680 or
Mathew Haines 07930 893678
Love Your Home
Professional
Decorating &
Painting Service
since 1984
Phone Neil
529710
07907 404423
Artisan
Excellent Quality at a Fair Price
Page 40

The cover illustration was inspired by
a traditional, eight-sided Ukrainian
Christmas star. Here is one for you
to colour, cut out and hang up at
Christmas in solidarity with the
Ukrainian people.
Traditional, Eight
-Sided Ukrainian-
Christmas Star
INDUSTRIAL AND D.I.Y. POWER TOOLS
HIRE - SALES - SERVICE
AEG
STIL
KANGO
BOSCH
LYTE
RELIAGEN
AEG
STIL
BOSCH
KANGO
Tel: 01594 843375
Fax: 01594 844610
EQUIPMENT HIRE SERVICES 15 HIGH STREET LYDNEY GL15 5DP
Page 41

Across the four companies situated between our two Lydney shops, we offer a bespoke
service and shopping experience for men, women, children, lifestyles and events.
A one stop shop for the entire family, home or special occasion.
AT 19 NEWERNE STREET • LYDNEY • GL15 5RA & ALSO
THE ARCHWAY • NEWERNE STREET • LYDNEY • GL15 5RF
OPEN EVERY DAY (EXCEPT SUNDAY) 9AM - 5PM
The
Dressing
Room
Ladies
Clothes
Boutique
01594 842623
MENSWEAR | WOMENSWEAR
KIDSWEAR | HOMEWARE
01594 844409 07818 083690 07818 083690
Page 42

SECURE SELF STORAGE
DIRECT VEHICILE
ACCESS
7 DAYS A WEEK
ACCESS
24 HOUR CCTV
MONITORING
INSULATED UNITS
AVAILABLE
01594 528224
office@reecer.co.uk
VERMIN TIGHT
VENTILATED
WATER TIGHT
SAFE AND SECURE
REECER GROUP, STROAT, CHEPSTOW, MONMOUTHSHIRE, NP16 7LS
Page 43

WOOLASTON PARISH COUNCIL
Report Summer 2022
September proved to be a month
like no other with the passing of Her
Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and the
proclamation of a new monarch, His
Majesty King Charles III.
To mark these events, some of you
joined in with signing the Parish
Council Book of Condolence at the
Memorial Hall (so many heartfelt
comments about a much-loved
sovereign). The Book has now gone
to the Gloucestershire Archives. The
Parish Council Chairman and Vice
Chairman attended the proclamation
for the new King by the Chair of Forest
of Dean District Council, Councillor
Julia Gooch, on Sunday 11 September
2022 at the Forest of Dean District
Council offices.
The Queens Platinum Jubilee
There has been a great reaction from
those who enjoyed the bank holiday
weekend and the Jubilee Carnival
organised by the Memorial Hall
Committee the following weekend.
The Parish Council would like to
extend a huge thank you to everyone
involved in the organisation.
Community Orchard
The Parish Council are continuing
their commitment to looking after the
Community Orchard. The grass has
been cut ready for the planting of
trees and the provision of a new sign
as requested by the Arbourday Trust
following their generous donation.
The school has been contacted to ask
that the local children be involved.
Woolaston Parish Council Contact Details
www.woolaston.org.uk
Chairman – Terina Riches
Cartref, The Common, Woolaston
01594 529815
Vice Chairman – Mary Greenslade
66 Severn View Road, Woolaston
01594 529617
Chair of Planning & Development
Control Committee – Andy Lord
The Covert, Woolaston Woodside
01594 529680
Vice Chair of Planning & Development
Control Committee – Hannah
Greenslade
Smallbrook Cottage, Spout Hill
01594 529016
Page 44
Parish Clerk – Gillian Orchard Preece
Cone Brook Mill, Cone Valley
Parish.clerk@woolaston.org.uk
01594 529053
Members
David Harris
Rosemont, Woolaston Common
01594 529238
Martin Rose
8 Swainsfield, Woolaston
07789 934452
Mick Fairless
The Reddings, Severn View Road
01594 529309

Community Speedwatch
The Parish Council are looking at a
number of options to ask drivers to
slow down and keep residents safe. It
has registered with Gloucestershire
County Council Community Speed
watch scheme and requested assistance
and suggestions for ideas. Although
there are plans to instigate a speed
watch team in the Parish, more
volunteers are required. Meanwhile,
may we please remind you, that “20 is
plenty”.
Parish Council Budget 2023/2024
It will soon be time for Councillors
to decide on the budget for the next
financial year. Most of the Parish
Council’s income comes from the
Council Tax that Parishioners pay –
this is referred to as the Parish Precept.
The Parish Council share of the
precept is spent on matters relating to
Woolaston and includes:
Woolaston Parish Council holds its
meetings in the Memorial Hall at 8pm
on the second Thursday of each month
(apart from January and August). The
Parish Council meetings are meetings
held in public – they are not public
meetings, however all Parishioners
are invited to attend to learn about
the activities of the Council. There
is an opportunity at the beginning of
the meeting for Parishioners to ask
questions on any item on the agenda.
The meeting agenda will be published
on the Council’s website and notice
board approximately 3 days prior to the
meeting.
If you have any questions, please do
not hesitate to contact me on 01594
529053 or parish.clerk@woolaston.
org.uk .
Gillian Orchard Preece
Parish Clerk
• maintenance of the cemetery
and closed churchyard
• emptying dog bins
• litter picking within
the Parish, keeping roads
and pavements clear of litter
• grass cutting and
maintenance of the playing
fields, playground, and some
verges.
• the inspection and
management of all the trees
on Parish Council land
• Office administration (clerk
salary, insurance, office
equipment, audit, Memorial
Hall broadband)
Page 45
Woolaston Parish Council is keen to
hear YOUR views.
The Council would like to know
what you, as residents, would like
your Parish Council to achieve.
The parish council meets every 2nd
Thursday of the month, except for
January and August, in the Woolaston
Memorial Hall at 8pm. All members of
the public are welcome to attend.

News from your Community Wellbeing Agent
RICHARD SKINNER - COMMUNITY WELLBEING AGENT
Tel. 07927 051328/01594 812447 (Community Wellbeing Team)
richard.skinner@fdean.gov.uk
WARM SPACES, ENERGY
SUPPORT, XMAS & SUNDAY
MEALS
This Winter threatens to be one of the
toughest for some people in living
memory. Various initiatives are in place
to try and take the sting out of some of
this.
Libraries, Village Halls and many other
community places are being designated
as ‘WARM PLACES’, lists are being
compiled, and local contacts will know
what is available in each locality.
My colleague Frances Palmer is coordinating
FOD Council’s response.
Various energy support measures are
in place. Broadly speaking, money has
been provided for energy companies to
refund part of the current very high bills.
Pensioners will receive an additional
winter fuel payment this year. People
on certain benefits are also getting
additional monies. People in furnished
rented accommodation are intended to
benefit from a parallel scheme.
Local towns and villages are also doing
Sunday lunches and Xmas lunches.
RISING SUN, WOODCROFT
After being closed for 12 years The
Rising Sun has finally reopened as a
local community pub, completely owned
by people in the local community. As I
write, it’s only been open for 2 ½ weeks
but has already had a very busy ‘soft
opening’, official opening and Open Mic/
Acoustic Club.
I hope all our local pubs and cafes
manage to keep open and flourish
through the times ahead.
MEMORY CAFES
Woolaston Memory Café has started up
again after Covid and Lockdown, and
is gradually picking up. It really has
had to start from scratch. It meets every
Thursday afternoon, 2 to 4 at Woolaston
Village hall.
Sedbury Memory Café meets the 1st
week of the month, on Wednesday
afternoons 2 – 3.30 in the Sedbury &
Beachley Village Hall.
The St Briavels Musical Memory Café
continues its extraordinary success,
regularly attracting 60+ people from a
wide area of The Forest. It meets the 3rd
Wednesday of the month at St Briavels
Assembly Rooms, 10.30 – 12.00.
SEDBURY SPACE
Continues its remarkable success. The
Tuesday Morning Drop In/Information
Café is regularly packed, and attracts
some very helpful information and
support staff. Many other activities are
working in or from Sedbury Space. It
links in with lots of other local initiatives
including some very successful events
and activities for children and young
people.
Richard Skinner
Page 46

PLEASED TO SUPPORT THE WYEDEAN RALLY 2022
BUILDERS
MERCHANT
NEW!
FULL RANGE OF
PORCELAIN LIMESTONE AND
SLABS
SANDSTONE
STARTING FROM SLABS
£24.50 + VAT m 2 From £23.00 + VAT m 2
01594 842428
REVERSIBLE
COMPOSITE
DECKING
145 x 22 x 3600mm
From £24.50 + VAT
per length
ARTIFICIAL
GRASS
STARTING FROM
£15.75 + VAT m 2
www.swminsulations.co.uk
BUILT ON SERVICE
Your
dream
garden
starts
here
300m 2
OF PAVING DISPLAYS
SHOWROOM
OPEN
TO THE
PUBLIC
KITCHENS · BATHROOMS · BEDROOMS
01594 846222
info@escapologydesign.co.uk • www.escapologydesign.co.uk
TOWN STATION • HILL STREET • LYDNEY • GLOS • GL15 5HL
EX-DISPLAY
BATHROOM
STOCK
AVAILABLE
FREE CAD DESIGN - book an appointment now to create YOUR dream space!
Page 47

Wine Talk - Winter Warmers...........
At the time or writing this, we are at the
backend of an unseasonably warm Autumn
which has pleased many people, particularly
those trying to prolong the annual ‘switch-on’
of the heating in the house!
However, we’re just starting to see that change
and by the time you are reading this, I would
suggest we will be well into the Winter,
building towards Christmas and inevitably
looking for some of those warming winter
wines that provide a virtual hug when the
weather is rather more inclement.
Whilst I’m certainly not of the opinion this
cannot include some well-rounded, voluptuous
white wines, it’s probably more common for
people to turn to reds at this time of year and
there is one grape that I think pulls off the trick
of the fireside blanket better than most.
Syrah or Shiraz (yes, they’re the same grape)
is a seductive grape, darker in colour than
Cabernet Sauvignon which translates to a
more prominent black and dried fruit character
than some other red wine varieties. It is the
worlds fifth most planted red grape and has a
true global nature, although it is probably most
famous in France within the Rhone Valley
and in Australia (where the Shiraz moniker is
used), most notably in the Barossa Valley near
Adelaide.
One of the most understood flavours of the
Syrah grape is that of pepper or spice and this
means that it can be paired with quite bold
food, including spiced stews and tagines as
well as barbecues.
I’ve selected three wines below which I think
show the different impressions of the grape
and price points also. I must admit to being a
rather late convert to New World ‘Shiraz’ but
it’s certainly something I’m enjoying more
and more, as I hope you do.
Reserva Privada Syrah 2021, Valle Central,
Chile - £5.99 Lidl in Lydney
Fresh, uncomplicated, the black fruit is
dominant here and luscious. There is
something about Lidl’s selections that hit the
Page 48
spot, particularly where ‘everyday drinking’
wines are concerned. This works well with
a sausage casserole. I know because we had
one with it!
Lock Keeper’s Reserve Shiraz 2021,
South Eastern Australia - £9.00 M&S in
Chepstow
There may not be many better value wines
around at the moment. This has more of the
spice element within the wine so that ginger
and nutmeg are more common on the taste.
I would say partner those flavours with food
containing similar ingredients but I would
also enjoy just drinking this one in front of the
rugby!
Boutinot La Cote Sauvage Cairanne,
Rhone Valley, France - £17.20 Tell Me
Wine in Chepstow
Bang and we’re up another level again.
Cairanne is one of the more exalted villages
within the Cotes du Rhone appellation. It sits
with similar wines from Seguret, Rasteau and
Vinsobres but maybe just beneath those such
as Gigondas and Chateauneuf du Pape. In
this case, the Syrah is blended with Grenache,
allowing more of the red fruit element to
show itself. This is more austere than the
second wine but will age better for it. A
delight with some venison.
Steve Kendall
Twitter: @TanglewoodWines
Instagram: @tanglewoodwines
www.tanglewoodwinetalk.wordpress.com

Forest of Dean District Council
Council Offices Coleford
Tel 810000
DISTRICT COUNCILLORS
Chris McFarling
Lorien Cottage,
St Briavels Common,
GL15 6SE
Phone: 01594 531225
Chris.McFarling@fdean.gov.uk
~~~~~~~~~~~
Maria Edwards
Severndale Farm,
Tidenham Chepstow,
NP167LL
Mobile - 07807 06868
maria.edwards@fdean.gov.uk
~~~~~~~~~~~
Nick Evans
Kinsale,
Gloucester Road,
Tutshill, NP16 7DH
Mobile - 07740 575369
nick.evans@fdean.gov.uk
~~~~~~~~~~~
Helen Molyneaux
Bluff House,
Stoulgrove Lane,
Woodcroft,
Chepstow
NP16 7QE
Phone - 01291 625013
helen.molyneaux@fdean.gov.uk
Page
Advertisment Index
Advertiser
20 ANNA Jewellry & The Studio
21 A.R.H. Electrical
40 Artisan-painting & decorating
32 Bailey Installations L.t.d
8 Beanhill B&B
17 Chris’s Fruit & Veg
18 Common Wood Flowers
13 Country Lodge Cars
Back cover - Ian Watts & Son
Funeral Directors
41 Equipment Hire Services
35 Funeral Director -Philip Blatchly
19 Greetings to your home
21 Howats Chimney Sweep L.t.d.
37 J.A.P.S. John Anderson Plans/design
36 J&H Davies- Building &
Landscape Services
18 Lydney Tyre & Auto Services
17 Monty’s Garden
32 Oak Barn Therapies
43 ReeceR - Self Storage
20 Right on Time watch/clock repair
37 S.C. George & Son
40 Seasoned Firewood - D. Haines
19 Swan House Tea rooms
47 S.W.M Escapology Design
Inside back cover - S.W.M. Building
Supplies & Lydney
Space Station Sorage
42 The dressing Room
Inside front cover - truMarketing
33 Trunk Arb
36 Tudor Rose- Carpentry
34 Viney Hall - Therapies
34 Woolaston Inn - Gurkha
30 Wyvern Garage
Thank you to all of our contributors for this edition of the Wooly News.
It has been put together by John Anderson,
Steve Thompson and Yvonne Thompson
It has been delivered to your door by Andrew and Steve, our local posties
Page 49

BUILDING
SUPPLIES
IN LYDNEY
BUILDERS MERCHANT
TOWN STATION • HILL STREET
LYDNEY • GLOS • GL15 5HL
01594 842 428
sales@swminsulations.co.uk
www.swminsulations.co.uk
Lydney
Space
Station
CONTAINER HIRE FOR
YOUR STORAGE SOLUTIONS
01594 842428
space@swminsulations.co.uk

Ian Watts & Son Ltd
Independent Funeral Directors
Est 1968
• 24 Hour Personalised Service
• Free home visits • No unnecessary costs
• Free friendly advice and assistance with a wide
range of funeral grants • Helping Families in all
areas • Male & Female Funeral Directors
• Huge range of memorials • Funeral Plans
“Respect & Dignity are at the
heart of everything we do”
01291 420972 • 07947 847277
07977 092935
joannehume@icloud.com
www.ianwattsandson.com