Bolton-le-Sands Parish Website
Index Council Clubs and Societies Local Businesses Notices
15/07/11
An art exhibition by local artists and children is being held in St Mary's Hall, Main Road, Bolton-le-Sands from Thursday July 28 until Sunday July 31 by Bolton-le-Sands Art Society. Entrance is free and opening hours are 10am to 6pm Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 10am to 4pm Sunday July 31. Refreshments will be available and there will also be a raffle held. Guest Artist is Norman Shadwell. This year the theme of the Exhibition is “The Circus”. Everyone is welcome.
Bolton-le-Sands Parish council held its July meeting recently where Sgt. John Bond based at Carnforth Police Station was introduced by PC Head. It was pleasing to see that there had been no anti-social calls or vehicle nuisance calls last month but the 3 crimes recorded did cause some concern. A drug warrant had been executed based on intelligence received of drug dealing in the area. 40 cannabis plants were seized from a property and 2 males were arrested for Possession with intent to supply and the cultivation of Class B Drugs.
Mike Ashton, Parish Lengthsman, has turfed the side of the new path by the tennis courts and with the help of Alan Swindlehurst has finished replacing the timber edging around the bowling green.
Permission was granted for the Gala to be held once again on the playing field on June 9, 2012 and the Bonfire Committee was also given permission to hold the annual firework display on November 5 2011.
The caravan site at Bolton Holmes Farm, Detron Lane has applied to Lancaster City Council Planning Authority to allow occupation of the park for a 12 month holiday season. The parish council though is of the opinion that all caravan sites should have a ‘closed season' and this site is of no exception.
11-07-11
Bolton Le Sands Floral and Horticultural society is holding a committee meeting on Monday July 18 to discuss arrangements for the annual summer show to be held on Saturday August 13. They are looking for people to join the committee, or perhaps just some ‘friends' of the society who could spare a few hours to move tables or make teas, so please call in and join them at 7.30pm at the Old Boy's School, Bolton-le-Sands.
On a warm and sunny July morning, a confirmation service was held at Holy Trinity Church, Bolton-le-Sands. The service, held on July 3, brought together the congregation from Holy Trinity with people from St Cuthbert‘s, Over Kellet. The Bishop of Blackburn, the Rt Revd Nicholas Reade gave the sermon and carried out the confirmation. He was accompanied to Bolton-le-Sands by Mrs Reade. Also in attendance at the service were Revd Gerwyn Capon and Revd Barbara Jones from Holy Trinity and Revd Ken Clapham from St Cuthbert's. A total of twenty-one people were confirmed - 15 from Bolton-le-Sands and six from Over Kellet. Confirmation is when a person decides for themselves that they want to be part of the church and renew the vows made at their baptism. After being confirmed by the Bishop, each of the twenty-one took communion for the first time - joined by the rest of the congregation. Each of those confirmed received a special confirmation candle to take away.
People are invited to a “songs of praise” event and family picnic taking place on Sunday July 17 on the playing fields from 3-5pm, weather permitting, alternatively inside the Community Centre. The afternoon will include live music and local choirs. The event has been organised by the three churches in the village - Holy Trinity Church of England, St Mary of the Angels Roman Catholic and Christ Church United Reformed. People simply need to bring along their voice and their own picnic.
21-06-11
It was a lovely evening for the charity cross bay run which took place on Wednesday June 15 in aid of St John's Hospice. Members of the Dallam Running Club left Flookburgh at 6.40 pm and ran the ten miles with the aid of a Flookburgh fisherman who led them all the way on his quad bike to the Kent's Channel. Alan Sledmore then took over and marked the way safely from the channel to Red Bank, Bolton-le-Sands. The runners took just two hours to cross the bay and finally made their way to the Hawthorns Restaurant for supper.
The Club has adopted St John's Hospice as its nominated charity for this year and this is just one of the many events it has organized to raise much needed funds for the charity.
Bolton-le-Sands WI met on Tuesday June 14. Mrs Brenda Wood welcomed all members and several visitors to what was an unusual meeting in many ways. Firstly the speaker could not attend and therefore at very short notice the Priest in Charge at Holy Trinity Church, Bolton-le-Sands, the Revd Gerwyn Capon agreed to speak.
The meeting commenced in the usual way with the singing of Jerusalem accompanied by Mrs Gill Allen on the piano and Happy Birthday was sang to the relevant people but with a special mention for Hazel Short's mother who celebrated her 103 rd Birthday and is still a member.
Revd Capon gave a talk on “An introduction to the poems of RS Thomas' who was a Welshman and a vicar in the Church of Wales. He died about 5 or 6 years ago having served all his life in the church. Revd Capon, also a Welshman, remembered meeting RS Thomas when he was just a small boy. RS Thomas had an introverted personality but he could write wonderful poetry. Revd Capon read very movingly some of his poems, many with the same theme, of RS Thomas constantly wrestling with his quest for God.
Forthcoming Events:
June 25 a Fashion Show by Town and Country at the Abbeyfield from 2pm-4pm
July 7 NSPCC Coffee Morning at Wild Duck Hall tickets £2
August 4 the Heritage Walk around Bolton-le-Sands starting at the Old Boy's Grammar School at 6.30pm and returning there for a Jacob's Join.
September 20 a trip to Chethams School of Music costing £12.50 this includes lunch and a tour of the school and concert. Coach fare £9.
Details are also available for a special 4-day WI holiday to Thursford-Xmas Spectacular from November 28 to December 1 and whilst many may not be thinking about Christmas, the WI are already talking about its AGM in November and the Christmas party on December 13.
The Cake Stall at the recent Village Gala raised £111 and thanks were given to all those who participated.
Hazel Short read a report of the National AGM held in Liverpool that was attended by 4780 members. It proved to be a very memorable day.
The competition was won by Joan Baker and members were reminded that Calendars and Diaries can now be ordered, the last date being August 31.
Next month's meeting will be the Auction and members were asked to bring along their donations. There will also be tombola, cakes and produce stalls. This will be an open meeting so anyone is welcome.
Bolton Le Sands Floral and Horticultural Society is holding its annual Village Garden Competition to be judged on: design, planting and maintenance. Entries close Sunday July 10. Judging will take place the following week. There are three cups awarded which entrants are allowed to keep for one year. Entries to: Mr D Rodwell on 01524 824260, Ms L Belcher on 01524 824191, Mr B Atack on 01524 410451 and Mrs B Muir on 01524 824018
14-06-11
It was yet another great day for Bolton-le-Sands Gala which was very well attended and it seemed everyone enjoyed themselves. Local clubs and charities ensured there was an excellent array of stalls selling local produce as well as home made crafts, plus games to play for everyone. The Beaver/Cub Football Championship was won by ‘All Stars' who played in orange strip (4) ‘Barcelona'(3). The Players: ‘All Stars' – George Graham Capt, Cameron Yates, Henry Jackson, Adam Hodgson, Tom Kirkley, Will Beeden and Thomas MacNeil. ‘Barcelona' – Thomas Beeden Capt., Joe Kirkley, Freddy Careless, Oliver Graham, Abby Foster, Jude Walters and Joseph Sheerin.
Results of the various events:
Flat Races:
Mixed:
3yrs/under – (1)Malachi Charnock-Payne, (2)Sophie Casson (3)Zara Metcalfe
5yrs/under – (1)Ethan Ashton, (2)Sasha Mooney
Girls
6/7yrs – (1) Eve Spurr, (2)Alana Quinn, (3)Gemima Whitfield
8/9yrs – (1)Chloe Norris, (2) Helena Squirrell, (3) Jodie Hamilton
10/11yrs – (1)Hannah North, (2)Maggie Hird, (3)Hannah Metcalfe
12/13yrs – (1)Kailey Holmes, (2)Amy Joel
Adult – (1) April Gladrey, (2)Michelle Gardner, (3)Lorna Gardner
Boys
6/7yrs – (1)Will Beeden, (2) Jake Spurr (3)Joseph Sheerin
8/9yrs – (1)Joseph Kirkley, (2)Jack Pinder, (3)William Bowker
10/11yrs – (1)Ethan Robertson, (2)Chris Eaton, (3)Morgan Gately
12/13yrs – (1)Joshua Blessington, (2)Jamie Wilcox, (3)Tyler Dixon
Adult – (1)Jamie Lurachsi, (2)Joe Schofield, (3)Paul Quirke
Mixed Egg & Spoon
Under 5yrs – (1)Ethan Ashton, (2)Sasha Morey, (3)Bonny Clarke
6/7yrs – (1)Nathaniel Hart, (2)Archie Garnett, (3)Courtney Ashton
Mixed Sack Race
8/9yrs – (1)Helena Squirrell, (2) Harriet Bates (3)Sally Holmes
10/11yrs – (1)Michael Thackrah, (2) Maggie Hird, (3)Morgan Gatley
12yrs and over – (1)Jonathan Ash, (2)Jamie Wilcock
Mums & Dads – (1)Joe Schofield, (2)Paul Quirke (3)Rex Riley
Wheelbarrow - open age – (1)Rex Riley / Dad Riley, (2) Joe Schofield / Callum Murgatroyd (3) Nathaniel Hart / Joanne Hart.
Welly Wanging
Over 15 – Ladies - Michelle Gardner 19.10m
Over 15 – Men – Steven Burton 35.40m
Under 15 – Boys – Conor Smyth 20.5m
Under 15 – Girls – Lauren Orchard 11.9m
Under 11 – Boys – Morgan Gatley 19.3m
Under 11 – Girls – Anna Chapman 12.29m
Under 5's – Daisy Crowe 8m
Members of the Gala Committee would like to thank everyone for their support.
On Thursday June 23, the Bolton-le-Sands Horticultural Society is hosting the Bolton-le-Sands Community Coffee Morning at the Community Centre, 9.45am until 11.30am. There will be coffee and biscuits, a raffle and stalls including plant sales, cakes and preserves.
The Knit and Knatter group is still going strong, with 30 members altogether, meeting every Monday at The Royal Hotel 6.30 - 8pm. New members are most welcome. Bring along knitting, crochet, or patchwork, there is always someone willing to help. Any further information on this group, contact Helen at Etty-Lilly.
The closing date for applications to become a parish councilor for Bolton-le-Sands closes on Friday June 17. The Parish Council still requires three more people to join them so if you are registered as a local government elector, or your principal or only place of work for the past twelve months has been in the parish, interested parties should write to the Parish Clerk at No. 2, The Shore, Bolton-le-Sands.
26-05-11
A family Bar-B-Q and a night of family fun is being organized in Nether Kellet Village Hall on Saturday June 11 starting at 6.00pm. There will be live music, raffle, games with the added bonus of a bar. So for a night of family fun, contact James Stewart in Bolton-le-Sands on 822192 for tickets which are £5 for adults and £2.50 for children under 11. Some of the profits from this event are being donated to St. Mark's church for their new window appeal. Tickets are also available from Dr Keith Lowson on 720027. Please try and support this event and everyone can all look forward to a very enjoyable evening, so book early to avoid disappointment.
12-05-11
Holy Trinity Church MThe FOBLES ( Friends of Bolton le Sands) present 'An Evening of Family Fun' on Friday May 20 (5-9pm) on the school field. Highlights will include: music from the school (children's choir and staff band), fun family rounder's, ice cream van, bouncy slide, beer and wine tent, BBQ, local produce stall, raffle, traditional games such as hook-a-duck, sponge throwing, bat-a-rat, coconut shy and face painting as well as quad bike rides and stalls by local traders (Bay View Garden Centre, Bolton-le-Sands library etc). There will also be an opportunity to take part in a fabulous raffle and to buy your numbers for next year's popular 200 Club with a chance to win £50 monthly! Please contact Mark Hamblett (Deputy Headteacher), Bolton-le-Sands CE Primary School for more information on 01524 823606.
Holy Trinity Church Mothers Union held their annual “Afternoon Tea” in the Village Hall on Wednesday May 11. Around 70 members and friends enjoyed excellent home made food, and spent generously on the many stalls and games.
Pam Bentley the enrolling member welcomed everyone and The Rev. Barbara Jones opened the event. Revd Gerwyn Capon, vicar and Deanery Chaplain, drew the raffle saying how pleased he was to see so many people supporting the church.
The money raised after expenses was £500 00 to be spent on M.U. projects.
The Deanery Festival takes place on June 15 at St. Margaret's Church Hornby and the M.U. will be running some of the regular Thursday morning coffee mornings in the Village Hall in July.
The monthly meetings will recommence after the summer break.Bolton-le-Sands Parish Council held its first meeting following the uncontested election. Councillors, Mark Archer, Tracy Bell, Keith Budden, Linda Leak, Brian Patrick and Cyril Pollitt signed their Declarations of Acceptance before taking their places on the council. Councillor Mike Craddock sent his apologies. Keith Budden was unanimously elected as Chairman with Brian Patrick as Vice Chairman. The Parish Council still requires three more people to join the council. Anyone interested should write to the Parish Clerk to reach her no later than June 17. All enquiries to 01524 825263.
Mothers Union held a Family Fun Day in the Village Hall on Wednesday April 27. Mrs Kathy Edwards their deputy enrolling member opened the meeting with prayer and notices and then continued to pray for sick and indoor members remembering their theme for 2011, Faithfull Relationships .
They were delighted to welcome reception class children from the local primary school and enjoyed their singing to start the meeting. Kathy then welcomed Mr Terry Crawford a local magician who entertained everyone with his tricks and illusions. Special Easter biscuits and cakes were made by members and some of their grandchildren. Mrs Margaret Crossley gave the vote of thanks.Keith Budden and Val Histed were duly elected to represent Bolton-le-Sands Ward in the Lancaster City Council elections. There was no election for parish councillors. Those duly elected as parish councillors without contest are Mark Archer, Keith Budden, Mike Craddock and Brian Patrick for the North Ward and Tracy Bell, Linda Leak and Cyril Pollitt for the South Ward. This leaves vacancies for three councillors and will be an item of discussion at the first meeting of the parish council on Monday May 9.
The Alysia Gilda School of Dance take to the stage at The Grand Theatre on Sunday May 15 at 3.00pm. Tickets are £8 / £6 concessions, and are available from the Grand Theatre Box Office, telephone 01524 646495 or on-line at www.lancastergrand.co.uk
22-04-11
The Bolton-le-Sands Floral and Horticultural Society held its AGM in the Old Free Grammar School on Monday April 11 at 7.30pm. The meeting included reports from key officers, including the president Mr A. Woodward, who thanked everyone for their hard work in the last year and noted that unfortunately losses were still being made which he felt needed to be addressed this year as if the pattern continued the club would find it difficult to continue past another 5 years. Upon completion of his first year in office, the Chairman, Mr B. Atack, noted that the club had plenty of members on the books and perhaps better publicity was needed to encourage these members to attend more events and new appointments were to be made to the committee to help relieve the work load of key officers. Other key officers also noted in their reports about increased expenses leading to losses for the club but generally membership and attendances were steady, with unforeseen clashes needing to be avoided in the future. Election of officers saw all officers re-elected, with a new post of assistant show secretary being filled by Mr D. Rodwell. The meeting concluded with a vote that saw Derian House Children's Charity being chosen as charity of the year and the chairman calling for a core group of volunteers / committee members to be found to run the kitchen at events. Therefore if anyone has a few hours to spare on show days and other large events to help make refreshments please see Mrs M. Carter, or any other committee member, thankyou.
The next AGM (annual general meeting) for Bolton-le-Sands Village Hall (community centre) will be held on Thursday May 12 starting at 7.30pm in the community centre. Anyone wishing to attend is most welcome. The Management Committee are always looking for new volunteers, if interested or you would like to know more please contact Debra on 01524 824613 or email debra.huckle@btinternet.com
Easter Services at Holy Trinity Church start with the Commemoration of the Last Supper on Maundy Thursday, April 21. Good Friday starts with the Children's Liturgy at 10.00am at Holy Trinity, Meditations on the Passion from 12 noon until 3pm finishing with the Proclamation of the Cross at 3.10pm. At 8.00pm on Saturday April 23 is the Easter Vigil and First Eucharist of Easter then Holy Eucharist at 8.00am and 10.30am on Easter Day Sunday April 24.
The 7 th Annual Celebration in honour of St. George's Day will be held in Holy Trinity Church on Saturday April 30 with a Music Hall and Variety Theatre flavour. There will be Singalong songs, Gilbert & Sullivan, George Formby – even the Beatles – with comic monologues and instrumental soloists to create true Variety Entertainment. Tickets are £6 with a special offer of Buy 3 tickets for £15; children (up to 16 yrs) £4.
The Mother's Union is organizing a Family Fun Afternoon on Wednesday April 27 at 2.00pm in the Community Centre with Magician Mr Terry Crawford. Unfortunately school age children will have returned to school after the Easter break but no-one is too old to enjoy a magician so everyone from toddlers to grandparents are most welcome.
There was a packed house at the April meeting of Bolton-le-Sands WI on Tuesday and Mrs Brenda Wood welcomed everybody. She gave thanks to the Tea Hostesses, Margaret for playing the piano and Kath for the Flowers.
The business of the meeting got underway and Brenda thanked everyone who had helped or attended the Lancashire Night. This had proved a great success and £550 had been raised for their Charity which this year is the Community Centre. Their next Charity event will be the Coffee evening on the August 9 when the Ladies of Note will entertain. The WI will also be holding monthly Coffee mornings in the Community Centre on the 3rd Thursday of each month; and funds raised will go towards subsidising future events held for the benefit of members. Mrs Carruthers of the Community Centre Committee thanked everyone for the money already raised and said that the Thursday Coffee mornings were proving successful and other charities were showing interest. The Group Meeting tickets were also available. This year it will be at Warton Village Hall on May 20. Members were reminded that in 2012 Bolton-le-Sands will be responsible for the Group Meeting when a good guest speaker is needed-suggestions welcome. It was agreed to hold a Cake Stall at the Village Gala on June 11. All contributions welcome.
Kathy Dewsbury from Grasmere then gave a talk about ‘Colours for all Seasons`. The House of Colour started in 1980 and has grown into an international organisation helping ladies of all ages and walks of life to new beginnings. Their motto is `investing time in ourselves`. She gave good sound advice on what works for you, colour analysis, body architecture and the inner self. She then gave a simple demonstration on how to discover whether you are a winter person or a summer person. Sue Walker gave the vote of thanks.
In members' time Joyce Bond gave a splendid report from the Spring Council meeting held in Southport. The competition was `Easter Bonnet` and was won by Barbara Bainbridge.
17-04-11
Sunday April 17 is Palm Sunday and the procession will commence from the Vicarage Courtyard into Holy Trinity Church. The Annual Parochial General Meeting will take place after the Parish Eucharist at 11.30am.
The final meeting of Bolton-le-Sands Parish council was held on Monday April 4 before the forthcoming elections. Councillor Budden thanked all councilors for their support over the past term of office. All nominations for the new council had to be handed into Lancaster Town Hall by 12 noon that day.
The Annual Parish Assembly for Bolton-le-Sands Parish Council was held on the last day of March in the Community Centre. The Speakers for the evening were Geoff Hornby of the Fire Service and Simon Denerley of Help Direct.
Firstly Geoff Hornby, with over 30 years experience with the fire service, gave a talk on the many instances of home fires and explained about the recent fire prevention campaign. Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service can provide a free home fire safety check, fit smoke alarms if needed and give advice on what to do in the event of fire. Visits will be arranged at a mutually convenient time by Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service personnel who will show their ID. This check is available to everyone, whether you are a home owner or tenant. Call freephone 0800 1691125 for a free home fire safety check or information can be obtained from the Clerk on 01524 825303.
Help Direct was an initiative set up in 2008 by Lancashire County Council providing a wide range of support and works closely with the Fire Service who often refer vulnerable residents to receive help and advice.
Help Direct is there to support people in their own homes and to help people get the most out of life. Simon handed out various leaflets outlining the services they offer from volunteering, to Time Banks which is an innovative skills sharing service for the local community, Social Prescribing which allows people to improve their mental health and wellbeing and finally he explained about the Safe Trader Scheme. More information on this initiative can be obtained from their offices at 7-11 Chapel Street, Lancaster or 4 Ashtrees Way, Carnforth.
The Chairman of the Council, Councillor Keith Budden, then opened the meeting by welcoming everyone present and introduced members of the council. The clerk reported on the attendances of each councilor. The Chairman's Report was given by the Chairman. He thanked the Parish Lengthsman Mike Ashton for the hard work he does around the village and highlighted the work he orchestrated on the new path at the rear of the tennis courts leading to the local school. He thanked Alan Swindlehurst, the greensman, for the work he does on the bowling greens. A recent visit by STRI complimented Alan on the work he has done to keep them in such good condition. The proprietors of Sands News were also thanked for selling permits each year.
It is hoped the parish council may be in a position to re-open the toilets in the village some time this year although there is quite a lot of work to do before that. Unfortunately the toilets on the shore are beyond repair and will be demolished in the not too distant future.
The play area on Church Brow was dismantled and City Council will be placing a five-a-side goal post to allow children to have a ‘kick about'.
The parish council has been able to assist various projects around the village. It donated 50% towards the grit bin on the car park placed there by the Village Hall Committee, a new tennis net was purchased, a donation was made to the Bolton-le-Sands cycling team who road from Land's End to John O'Groats in aid of Cancercare. It also purchased new chairs for the Old Free Grammar School.
The Old Boy's Grammar School underwent major refurbishment works this year and thanks were given to the fire service for allowing the parish council to use their meeting room for parish meetings whilst the school was closed.
Thanks were also given to the owner at Hawkshead for donating the wonderful Christmas tree and to the residents of Bolton Lodge for allowing their forecourt to be used to display it.
The ladies of the WI kindly served tea and biscuits after the meeting giving everyone who attended the chance to chat about the evening's events.
28-03-11
The Bolton-le-Sands Floral & Horticultural Society will hold its Annual General Meeting on Tuesday April 12 in the newly refurbished Old Boy's School at 7.30pm. All members and anyone who is interested in this society are invited to attend where everyone will be welcomed with tea and biscuits.
There is also a Hot Pot Supper that the society holds each year which will be held in the Community Centre on Friday April 15 starting at 7.00pm with the supper then a talk will follow on Bees and Bee Keeping by Dr. Richard Sewell. This is a ticket only event costing £5.50 per ticket and can be obtained from any committee member or Mr Colin Hargreaves on 824931 no later than Sunday April 10.
Sunday April 3 is Mothering Sunday and services are being held at 10.30am in Holy Trinity Church and 10am in Christ Church (United Reformed). The service in Christ Church will be taken by Mrs Jean Lear in accordance with their tradition of having a lady preacher on that day. For those who do not know, Jean has asked that everybody bring to the service something which was owned by one of your parents. (Please try to bring something suitable with you. The grandfather clock would be a bit too big!)
Nomination papers for the forthcoming parish council elections are available from the parish clerk or from the Returning Officer at the Town Hall, Lancaster. These must be delivered to the Governance Service Meeting Room, Town Hall, Lancaster on any day but not later than noon on Monday April 4. If the election is contested, the poll will take place on Thursday May 5.
'Not just a Coffee Morning' will be held on Thursday April 14 from 10am to 11.30am in Bolton le Sands Village Hall where Town and Country Fashions of Carnforth will have a jewellery stall. Other stalls are available for hire. There will be a 'mystery' event at 10.30am (be there!) Admission is only £1.00 including coffee and biscuits. All proceeds are for the Lancaster & District Choral Society Travel Fund. All enquiries to 01524 824820.
Bolton-le-Sands Pre-School held a Children's Nearly New Sale on Saturday March 19 where they raised an amazing £615 for Pre-School Funds. Thanks to all concerned who helped and supported this event.14/03/11
Come along to the Community Centre on Thursday morning for a cup of coffee and browse the many stalls selling cakes, jams, cards and bric-a-brac. Doors open at 9.45am until 11.15am. This is an opportunity to meet every Thursday and if anyone wants to hold a coffee morning or have a stall, please contact 01524 824588.
Bolton-le-Sands Pre-School will be holding a Children's Nearly New Sale on Saturday March 19 from 1-3pm in the Primary School, Mount Pleasant lane. Entrance is 50p. There is ample free parking at the car park adjacent to the Community Centre. For further information, please telephone 07948451611.
On Tuesday March 8 Mrs Brenda Wood, President of the Bolton-le-Sands WI opened the March monthly meeting by welcoming everyone present and sadly informing of the recent death of Mrs Betty Burrows, a long standing member. As always Jerusalem was sung but this time with special thoughts of Betty who was well known and loved.
Business got under way and members were reminded of the Lancashire Evening on March 19, when”Amongst Friends” will provide the entertainment and a Hot-Pot supper will be served. Tickets are selling well. The Spring Council Meeting is in Southport on March 16. The Group Meeting will be at Warton on May 20 where the entertainment is “Five in a Bar”. Volunteers are needed to provide refreshments at the Parish Assembly on March 31. The last consignment of Yorkshire Tea has been received plus a letter from Taylors Tea expressing their regret at ending the relationship with the WI but assuring of their continued support.
The Speaker for the evening was David Mower and his subject was “Garden Birds”. David is a warden at Leighton Moss and his talk was to point out that it is not necessary to travel miles to see great birds, because they are all around you in your garden.
David showed pictures he had taken in his own garden and in the surrounding countryside and his knowledge was astonishing. All the members were truly absorbed into his message about a variety of birds from a Great Spotted Woodpecker to the now very rare Song Thrush. He had a vast knowledge on habitat, behaviour and survival rates of all types of birds. The vote of thanks was given by Betty Cottam.
The Thursday Coffee Mornings held between January and March has raised £419 for their 2011 Charity. Dorothy Carruthers hoped to keep the coffee mornings going with the support of village organizations. She reminded everyone of how it is a great way of raising funds, so anyone wishing for details can contact her. The meeting ended at 9.30pm with everyone singing “The Queen”.
28/02/11
The Bolton-le-Sands Floral & Horticultural society arranged a very interesting talk on Monday evening, February 21 at the Old Free Grammar School, entitled “the history to today's date of privies, potties and pollution. The talk was given by Mr dick White with Mrs White assisting with the slide show with wonderful colours from the Victorian days plus history of the sewage to this present day. The talk was very well attended.
The monthly meeting of the Bolton-le-Sands Parish Church Men's Group took place in the Old Free Grammar School on February 14 where the speaker was member, Robert Swain. He took the members on a trip to see trees in the Pitlochry to Killiecrankie area of Perthshire. His first slide showed trees between the two in March 2009 showing how many were covered with lichens. There were also pictures taken on a day when Loch Faskally was low and many old tree stumps from the area before the Loch was created were exposed. He also told a little story of the area. He then showed pictures of the same area again but taken at the end of October 2009 when they were in autumn colours. The talk ended showing the autumn colours in the Explorers' Garden behind the Festival Theatre.
23/02/11
An informal friendly group has been set up called “Knit & Knatter” where all knitters and people who enjoy crochet can get together for a chat. It is being held at ‘The Royal Hotel' every Monday from 6.30pm – 8.00pm. There is no charge but it is hoped people will offer support by buying a drink at the bar. It has been set up by Helen of Etty-Lilly who can offer help and advice with every aspect of knitting and crochet. All are most welcome.
Bolton-le-Sands Preschool now has a 'Ragbag' textile recycling container. It is located within the pre-school boundary just off the car park adjacent to the community centre. All unwanted clothes, paired shoes, bags, belts, towels, bedding, curtains and soft toys can be deposited in the container. Unfortunately duvets, carpets or rugs cannot be accepted. Please donate all your unwanted textile items. All proceeds from the recycling of these products will go to Pre-school.
Holy Trinity Mothers Union held their annual Wave of Prayer service in church on Wednesday February 16. The Rev Gerwyn Capon officiated, and Mrs Sheila Parker played the organ. Gerwyn welcomed Mrs Gwyneth Ellis the enrolling member from St Margarets Church Bloemfontein South Africa. Gwyneth shared her experiences of life in Bloemfontein especially the work of the Mother's Union at St.Margarets.
Prayers were said for all in positions of leadership within the Mother's Union, the Diocese of the U.K. Ireland, and especially Blackburn. Prayers were also said for the Diocese of Free State Southern Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, Rwanda and regions in the Southern province.
The collection was presented to Gwyneth for the church in Bloemfontein.
Refreshments were enjoyed following the service.
A Coffee Morning will be held on March 2 in The Old Boys School.
The next Meeting will be held at 2.00pm on March 16 in the Village Hall where the talk will be on a Hindu Wedding.A meeting was held by the Bowling Greens Management Committee to discuss next season and to review the cost of the various permits: Annual Permits £35.00; Social Permits £25.00; Winter Permits £15.00;Single sessions will remain at £3.00 for both the summer and winter season.
Permits will be on sale at Sands News in the village and also through Geoff Forrest.
A special welcome was made to Geoff Forrest and Barry Guise who have replaced Ernie Ellershaw and Bernard Lyons. Special thanks were conveyed to Ernie and Bernard for their continued support over the past years.
The greensman was congratulated on the state of the greens. The agronomist from STRI was full of enthusiasm on the condition of both greens and came up with some good ideas to keep them in good condition.
15/02/11
Mrs Brenda Wood welcomed members and visitors to the February meeting of the Bolton-le-Sands WI on Tuesday February 8. The meeting opened with singing Jerusalem and Happy Birthday to a few members who had, or would be having birthdays soon. Good wishes were sent to Mrs Jean Elston who had had a triple by-pass operation that day.
Business continued with members being reminded of forthcoming events; The Spring Council meeting on March 16, Mrs Joyce Bond will be the delegate. Tickets are selling well for the Lancashire Evening on March 19 when `Amongst Friends` will provide the entertainment and a Hot Pot Supper will be served.
The Thursday Coffee Mornings have gone well but the future is uncertain now that the Country Markets have finished. The WI will continue with the coffee mornings until the end of March. The recording of the BBC Home Planet programme was well attended and proved very successful. The Production Team was well pleased with the Hall and the President of the Lancashire Federation WI has written thanking Bolton le Sands WI for their co-operation.
It is disappointing that Taylor's Tea will no longer be supplying tea to the Federation and a letter of thanks will be sent for their past support. A letter will also be sent to National Federation stating their disagreement with the new policy.
Mrs Wood then introduced the guest speaker for the meeting, Cannon Lofthouse. His topic was `Life as a Tramp`. He explained that when he was a Vicar at Maryport he was asked by the Bishop of Carlisle to take part in an` Urban Ministry Project `– the idea being that he would spend 48hours as a ‘down and out' in London with only £1 in his pocket. Cannon Lofthouse proved to be a very good story teller and everyone enjoyed listening to his adventures. During the course of his 48 hours he was televised, did some busking for which he earned 92p, but at the same time remained very cold and has no desire to live the `life of a tramp`. The experience taught him valuable lessons on the difference of attitude to the down and outs and how they feel alienated in society. Mrs Joyce Bond gave the vote of thanks and also won the competition which was `An Illustrated Poem`.
Later Mrs Helena Mullard and Mrs Margaret McCormack displayed the photos they had taken during their course at Denman College and shared their most enjoyable time spent at Denman.
Bolton-le-Sands Pre-School will be holding a Children's Nearly New Sale on Saturday afternoon on March 19 from 1-3pm. The sale will be held in Bolton-le-Sands Primary School, Mount Pleasant Lane. Entrance is 50p. There is ample free parking on the car park adjacent to Bolton-le-Sands Community Centre. For further information, please telephone the committee on: 07948451611
01/02/11
The Bolton-le-Sands Floral & Horticultural Society held their annual general knowledge quiz, on Friday evening, January 28 in the community centre. 24 teams took part in the quiz and a very enjoyable evening was had by all. The Wild Woodies won with 113 points and the Dream Machine came second with 104 points. Quizmaster for the evening was Mr Ian Steele who was introduced and thanked by Mr Alan Woodward who also thanked the committee for all their hard work in organising the quiz, Bay View Garden Centre for supporting the society with garden vouchers and the Woodcrest Garden Centre and the Royal Hotel for providing raffle prizes.
24/01/11
A gathering of around 50 members attended the Annual General Meeting of the Mothers Union held in the village hall on Wednesday January 19. Pam Bentley the enrolling member welcomed vicar the Rev. Gerwyn Capon to chair the meeting, and a short period of worship followed. Apologies were given; the minutes of the 2009 meeting were read by secretary, Hazel Short and a very comprehensive treasurer's report from Trish Cooper.
The subscription has increased to £15 per year, and the tea and biscuit contribution has increased to help fund the rent of their new venue in the village hall.
Membership is now 91 including 7 indoor members showing the branch continues to grow. Two committee members were stepping down, Dorothy Entwistle and Madeline Jackson. Both were presented with lovely orchids in recognition of good service. All other committee members were re elected with the addition of Pauline Wood and Linda Whitby. Joan Baker is to be in charge of the literature stall.
The vicar's report came next, Gerwyn Capon their Deanery Chaplain thanked the members for all their support encouragement and prayer in his first year. He entreated them to continue to care for each other and especially the sick and housebound. He reminded them of the world wide "Faithfull Relationships" theme and its importance. Andrea Howson was introduced. She oversees the Mother's Union holiday caravan for the diocese. Andrea thanked members for their £250.00 donation towards the purchase of the new caravan which is now receiving visitors. She explained how the caravan was a bolt hole and respite for families undergoing stress or simply could not afford a holiday. Pam then presented a cheque for a further £100 00 to the caravan fund, and thanked Andrea for her talk. The vicar closed the meeting with prayer.
Forthcoming events include: Coffee Morning in the Old Free Grammar School 10am on February 2; Wave of Prayer in Holy Trinity Church 2pm on February 16; Coffee Morning in the Old Free Grammar School 10am on March 2; and Women's World of Prayer being held in St Mary's R.C. church 2.00pm on March 4.The “Fun and Funds” group is holding a line dance with instruction as a fundraising event for Holy Trinity Church on Friday January 28 in the school hall from 7.30pm until 10.30pm. The teacher is the very popular Alysia Gilda. There will be a raffle and people are encouraged to come in Western style fancy dress and a prize will be given to the best cowboy and cowgirl on the night! There will be a cowboy style supper and tea or coffee as part of the ticket price but everyone is also welcome to bring their own soft / alcoholic drinks. Tickets prices are £10 each or £25 for a family of 2 adults and 2 children and are bookable by telephoning 822192 or 823394.
17/01/11
The monthly meeting of the Bolton-le-Sands Parish Church Men's Group took place in the Old Free Grammar School on January 10 when the speaker was James Stewart on “Poetry Reading and Tall Stories”. James told a little about himself and how he has long had connections with farming. He now sells field gates. He then went on to read various poems he has written, some from two books that he has had published. These were interspersed by tall stories, some of which were very tall indeed! One concerned a farmer taking a kit full of money to the bank as it would be safer there than at home. The farmer insisted that there was £10,000 in it, but the bank could only count £9,999.99. They counted it three times, the farmer then looked at his kit and realised he had taken along the wrong one! Nearly all the stories and poems were related to farming and the local area.
On Tuesday January 10, Mrs Brenda Wood, President of Bolton-le-Sands WI, welcomed everybody to the first meeting of 2011 and was pleased to see so many members. Get well wishes were sent to several members who are unwell just now and “Happy Birthday” was sang to everyone who had celebrated a birthday recently.
The usual business got underway and members were informed that the Memorial Service held for Bessie Ridings on Friday January 7 had been well attended. The Memorial Order of Service, which included some nice photos of Bessie was there for anyone to see. Members were also reminded that a ‘Lancashire Evening' had been arranged for March 19 and tickets are now available at £10. A group known as “Among Friends” will entertain and there will also be a Hot Pot Supper. Help is also needed to man the Book Stall, serve Coffee and generally attend the Thursday Coffee mornings which will be held during January, February and March. Forthcoming events for the diary are the BBC Radio 4 Home Planet recording which will take place on January 21 in the Community Centre at 2.30, the Spring Council Meeting at Southport on March 16 when Michael Portillo will be the guest speaker, if a coach is to be organised more names are needed.
An e-mail from the Young Carers was received with details of how the Young Carers had enjoyed Christmas with the help of the money raised by the WI in 2010. A Christmas party had been held, visits to the Pantomime and the Chill Factor at Manchester – so everyone's efforts had been well and truly enjoyed.
Mrs Brenda Wood then introduced the Speaker, Mary Pearson, who was a well known member. She and her husband had spent a very memorable holiday on the Galapagos Islands and shared that memory with everyone there. John Pearson had filmed the events and Mary added interesting details. They showed beautiful pictures of the flora and fauna, animals native to the islands such as iguana, tortoise (for which the islands are famous) plus many varieties of birds. The islands came into prominence with the visit of Charles Darwin and the subsequent publication of his book the `Origin of the Species`. The vote of thanks was given by Pauline Sterritt who voiced the appreciation of everyone for a truly memorable evening.
During Members Time votes were taken on their chosen Charity for 2011 and Bolton le Sands Community Centre won the popular vote. The draw for the Denman Bursary was taken and the winners were Joyce Bond and Jackie Ireland . A very enjoyable evening finished with singing The Queen.
13/01/2011
Despite it being a bank holiday, Bolton-le-Sands Parish Council held its first meeting of 2011 on Monday January 3 in the Old Free Grammar School at the earlier time of 7.00pm. Maurice Hodgson of Bolton-le-Sands Fire Station spoke of a new fire safety initiative by Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service offering. They can provide a free home fire safety check, check electric fires to ensure they are safe, fit smoke alarms if needed and give advice on what to do in the event of a fire. Visits will be arranged at a time to suit the householder and will be carried out by Steve Turner, Community Fire Safety practitioner based at Bolton-le-Sands fire station. Anyone is eligible for these visits, you just have to be a tenant or home owner, so to take advantage of the offer, please contact Steve on 01524 822886.