News Update no 32, November 7th

Spooky times as lockdown returns to haunt us all!

Halloween Trail a Great Success (see photos on the village Facebook page)

Well done Sandra Edwards for organising the event and the many others who joined in by carving out pumpkins, building fabulous displays and contributing treats.

As one young girl put it:

“Had a lovely Halloween, went on a pumpkin trail around Stratton Audley with Sophie and family. It was lovely and really well organised, some great displays and sweets all bagged up to take safely. It was one of my favourite Halloweens yet, well done Stratton.”

Definitely an idea to be considered again for next year.

Latest Covid-19 News

Nothing to add to what has already been well publicised with regard to the nationwide lockdown measures, apart from to say that unlike the first lockdown, if you need to buy garden and DIY items, the big retail stores are open as too is Halfords, although the number of people allowed to enter at any one time is likely to be restricted.

It is equally good news that the Ardley household waste and recycling centre is also open, operating normal hours.

Of course those shielding or taking extra precautions will already have a network of support in place but just as a reminder attached is the original list of volunteers.

Remembrance Sunday 8th Nov – IT’S HAPPENING TOMORROW AT 9.30 AM

There will be no service inside the church this year but the diocese has gone to great lengths to ensure that the ceremony can take place outside in the churchyard next to the War Memorial, in a safe manner with the following rules in place:

  • the service of Remembrance will commence at 9.30 am and will be shorter than usual with no hymns being sung
  • participants should arrange to arrive at the churchyard as soon as possible after 9.00 am, as contact details will be required for track and trace, or by using the QR code on your phone
  • social distancing must be strictly adhered to and white field paint will be used to mark where individuals/couples can stand
  • everyone will be required to wear a face mask unless they have a medical condition which exempts them
  • numbers will be limited in the grounds of the church and latecomers will have to stand beyond the churchyard entrance
  • those that are shielding are best advised not to attend
  • those that wish to commemorate privately can do so, later in the morning and until 4pm when the church is locked up.

EWR disruption on the Stratton Audley Park Road to Poundon

Please remember that from this coming Monday 9th November work begins on the passing points by the Stratton Audley Park avenue of trees which means that the road will be closed and this is scheduled to last for several weeks until Friday 27th November.

The location and length of the passing points has been the subject of much discussion by and with residents, following which, the design and engineering team at EWR came up with new plans which have subsequently been endorsed by Oxford County council. The good news is that the Parish Council has now received confirmation in writing that the revised scheme avoids the need to remove any trees or limbs of trees in the avenue and that the EWR Highways contractor has been instructed accordingly.

The Red Lion

The Pub is now closed until further notice, and also the coffee morning in the Red Lion is cancelled for the time being.

Stratton Audley Barn

The Barn is back with takeaway service as from today, Saturday 7th November and open Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm.

There’ll be take away coffee, hot chocolate and cakes, plus in addition they are relaunching their delicious homemade ice cream……but if that’s too chilly for you why not try their hot panini’s.

Watch Facebook for updates on the Christmas Shop online for click & collect or delivery later this week.  https://www.strattonaudleybarn.co.uk/shop-1

Stratton Audley advent windows trail

As previously announced the Church has come up with the novel idea of creating an Advent Trail around the village whereby 24 street-facing windows will be decorated with a Christmas Carol Theme. Planning a window display could be a fun activity during lockdown and a great way to get into the spirit of Christmas!

Thanks go to those who have already agreed to create a window and if you would like to join them and to be one of the participating households please get in touch with Becky Adams (277 471) or email admin@shelswellparishes.info

Collection Point for disposal of Ink Jet cartridges

The collection box for used ink-jet cartridges is still located in the bus shelter on the Stoke Lyne Road and any money raised from their bulk return will go to the RSPB.

All the best and stay safe