Whitehouse Farm
All quiet on the western front. I have asked for a meeting with the new WSCC Highways Planning Manager, but no response so far.
Fred Barber
Following the sad and sudden death of a past chairman of the WGRA in December, there was standing room only at Havant Crematorium, when about 300 people attended his funeral. There was a moving service reflecting on his work and interest in military aircraft. Our thoughts are with his wife and family.
Robin Birtley
I am sorry to report that Robin Birtley died on 22nd January in a nursing home in Midhurst. Robin moved in to Tannery Close about 3 years ago. He was always cheerful and willing to help with local projects despite health problems. He rapidly became a popular and valued member of the community and will be missed. A funeral service will be held at St George’s Church, Donnington on Friday 9th February at 1.30pm.
Centurion Way Exhibition
A very successful exhibition was held on Saturday 27th January in the Scouts Hut by the newly formed Friends of Centurion Way. The exhibition coincided with the launch of a written dossier detailing all the community issues that need to be considered in relation to any proposed diversion of the path’s southern end. Read more about it, at the group’s very informative website, where the dossier can be read in full.
The group has been very active with a number of events on the path including a New Year’s Day “ Beating of the Bounds” community walk, counting users of the path, and it is currently preparing a very large “Love your Path” Valentine’s Card to the Secretary of State for Transport, Chris Grayling, who will ultimately rule on any application to stop up or divert the current route, which has highway status! Please come along to future community events and register via the website to show your support.
Julia Smith, Secretary
St Bartholomew’s Chapel
I have had two reports/complaints in the last week about the condition of the Chapel (a second window has been broken) and inappropriate behavior in the graveyard. If you are aware of any specific problem please telephone 101 to make a report to the police, so that they can build up a picture. Richard Chevis is the responsible person in the Bishop’s Office.
Coming events
Saturday 3rd February – WGRA Coffee Morning at the Crate and Apple. Just turn up between 10.00am and 11.00am and meet your neighbours.
Tuesday 27th February “Locals’ Night” at the Crate and Apple – Wine tasting. Details from Andy
- Cost: £25pp
- 30 – 20.30
- 10 – 12 wines
- Fun, casual and informative chat about each wine from a professional (highly qualified) wine connoisseur. The expert will try and encourage audience tasting opinion but will lead the discussion.
- Canape selection with white wines, Cheese Board selection to be served with reds.(Advise to eat prior to arrival or stay for dinner after??)
Monday 26th February 6.30pm – “Bavardage au Pub” at the Crate and Apple. Held on the last Monday of the month. A relaxed hour or so speaking French. All levels welcome. Contact: Jane Davies or call 07792 708229.
Every Monday morning from 10am – 12 noon – Knitting and Social Group. Knitter or not, come along and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea at the Crate and Apple. Contact: Sally Lowe.
Richard Brownfield, Chairman