Marlovian Autumn

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marlovian all your news from the community

Autumn 2011

David Walliam (pic courtesy of Comic Relief)

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www.marlowtowncouncil.org.uk

contents page 4

Town Council News

page 10

page 5

Town Councillors

page 10-11 Marlow Museum’s railway exhibition

page 6

Picture quiz

page 12

David Walliams vs The Thames

page 7

Marlow Rowing Club fire

page 14

New day nursery opens

page 8

Higginson Park award

page 15

New Seasons Club’s 40th

page 8

ihelp community competition

page 15

Neighbourhood Policing message

page 9

History of Swan Upping

Marlow Allotments Association

mayor’s message I would just like to share with you

hole for the Swan Uppers, after their busy day on the

some of the things I have been

river. I also joined them the following day for breakfast

doing since becoming your Mayor in

at the Compleat Angler Hotel, before they left on the

May.

next stage of their journey towards Abingdon. Please see the article on Swan Upping in this edition.

Literally just after being elected Town Mayor, it was Regatta weekend

Riley Play Area

and my first duty was hosting the

I am happy to share with you that we have agreed in

Mayor’s Reception. For the first

principle, the Heads of Terms for your Town Council to

time this year we honoured some

take over the responsibility for running the play area in

past Town Councillors for the unstinting work they have

Riley Park. We are very excited about this and once the

done for the town, collectively giving in excess of 100

legal process has been completed and the lease has been

years! Maurice Oram, Ivor Coleman and Frank Sweatman

signed, we will consult with the residents on how they

received these awards for their remarkable service to

want this play area equipped. We are delighted that we

the Town Council! We also honoured John Fordham for

have been able to help keep this important facility for

the great job he has done in securing the land at the

Marlow.

Marlow Sports Club for the community and Elin Galvin who won the Sports Award. She is a great hockey

St. John Ambulance

player and represents Great Britain. The following week

They are looking into refurbishing their premises in

I attended the Marlow Dorney Lake Regatta, a lovely day

Marlow and have asked us if we can support them.

of international rowing.

Speech Days

Age Concern On 6 August, I attended the Age Concern Ploughman’s

We have two great secondary schools in our town and I

lunch, which was very well supported and, although the

was lucky enough to be invited to both Speech Days. It

weather was a little inclement, it didn’t stop us enjoying

is truly an honour to see how well these pupils do and

a very good Ploughman’s and a great raffle!

what a credit they are to their parents, the school and the town.

Swan Upping A Tradition in Marlow

Four Seasons 40th Anniversary tea I was delighted to be asked to attend this event. It was most enjoyable and I was very appreciative of the very kind donation they made to the Mayor’s Charity Appeal.

On 19 July, I was invited by the Queen’s Swan Marker to

This along with a number of meetings and other events

join the Swan Uppers at their luncheon at the Ferry in

is keeping me busy, and I am enjoying my role and look

Cookham and then accompany them up river to Marlow,

forward to communicating with you again soon.

watching them tag the swans and check their well-being.

Brewers public house, which is the traditional watering

Jocelyn Towns

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On arrival in Marlow, I hosted a reception at the Two

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town council news Grants

Cemetery Gate

Financial assistance for local charities and grants can be hard to come by. Did you know that Marlow Town Council has a budget of approximately £10,000 for local organisations to apply to? The application process is relatively simple and an application form can be downloaded from the Town Council website.

The Town Council’s cemetery at Wethered Road is a tranquil and well maintained resting place for many of the town’s former residents. The Town Council puts a lot of resources into maintaining the cemetery and ensuring it remains a pleasant place for members of the public to come and remember their loved ones.

Recent recipients include Marlow Age Concern, The Royal British Legion, Marlow Camera Club and Marlow Sea Cadets. If you would like to find out more then please contact the Town Council.

Riley Road Play Park At the time of going to press Marlow Town Council was at an advanced stage in agreeing a lease with the Riley Road Trust for the play park located in Riley Park.

The future of the play park was put under threat after Wycombe District Council decided that it no longer wished to retain responsibility for it. The Trust, which is the landlord, was faced with a difficult task of finding somebody else to take it on as they did not have the financial resources to manage it themselves. Marlow Town Council maintains a number of play parks in the town and stepped forward with an offer to take on this much used and well-loved community facility.

It is hoped that the lease will be signed soon and that Marlow Town Council will then push forward with plans to replace the existing equipment. Keep an eye out for developments and consultation on what you would like to see in the play park in the Marlovian and on the Town Council’s website.

Remembrance Service & Parade The Remembrance Service & Parade will take place in Marlow on Sunday 13th November. The Parade will start off at the Marlow Royal British Legion Headquarters, Station Approach at approx. 10.30am and come along Station Road to muster at the War Memorial at the Causeway. The Scottish Piped Band will lead the parade.

Service starts at 10.45am at the War Memorial with Marlow Town Band providing the music for the Service.

All are welcome to attend.

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Following a number of incidents of vandalism and anti-social behaviour, as well as complaints of people being disturbed at funerals by people using the cemetery as a short cut, the Council took the difficult decision to close the rear gate from Sandygate Close on a permanent basis.

However, the Town Council did receive a number of complaints from visitors who were now unable to access their loved one’s grave at the rear of the cemetery because they had limited mobility. They highlighted the anguish this had caused them.

The Council have therefore decided to open up the rear gate from 8am - 8pm in the summer months (April to September) and 8am - 4pm in the winter months (October to March). It should be noted that this access should not be used as a shortcut or recreation area.

The cemetery is a peaceful space for reflection and mourning, but also a working space with funerals, and maintenance work taking place regularly.

The Council would also ask that people using this access respect the people living nearby and if possible do not park their cars in the close.

Hanging Baskets The splendour of Marlow Bridge will soon be heightened with the installation of hanging baskets both on the Marlow side and on the Bisham side.

The baskets will be installed shortly and will feature plants suitable for the autumn/winter season. They will then be replanted in spring. The baskets follow the refurbishment of the support brackets by a local forge.

The baskets will be paid for by both Marlow Town Council and Bisham Parish Council, though both councils are investigating sponsorship of the baskets.

If you or your company are interested in sponsoring the baskets then please contact the Marlow Town Council office on 01628 484024 email office@ marlowtowncouncil.org.uk.

www.marlowtowncouncil.org.uk

town council news Marlow Town Councillors 2011 - 2015 North West Ward Cllr Jeremy Bedford

York House 2 Southview Road Marlow, Bucks SL7 3JP

Cllr Ms Suzanne Brown

31 South Place Marlow Bucks SL7 1PY

Cllr Philip Ditchfield

12 Gossmore Walk Marlow Bucks SL7 1QZ

Cllr Bob Johnson

The Cottage Henley Road Marlow, Bucks SL7 2DQ

Tel: 01628 891361 Mob: 07831 124271

Old Kiln House Marlow Common Marlow, Bucks SL7 2QP

Tel: 01628 475615 Mob: 07940 700 480

16 Beechingstoke Marlow, Bucks SL7 1JH

Tel: 01628 475286

25 Beechtree Avenue Marlow Bottom Bucks SL7 3NH

Tel: 01628 482469 Mob: 07889 305 429

Cllr Tim Avery

1 Claremont Road Marlow, Bucks SL7 1BH

Tel: 07757 643095

Cllr Roy Cadman

Vine House, 9 Glade Road Marlow, Bucks SL7 1DZ

Tel: 01628 482299

Cllr Richard Scott Wycombe District Councillor Bucks County Councillor

Fulshaw Court, Mill Road Marlow, Bucks SL7 1QB

Tel: 01628 488186

Cllr Kathy Thomson

6 Station Rise Marlow, Bucks SL7 1EH

Tel: 07798 615086

Cllr Mrs Jocelyn Towns

Riverain, Gossmore Lane Marlow, Bucks SL7 1QF

Tel: 01628 477914 Mob: 07715 547251

Cllr Neil Marshall Wycombe District Councillor Cllr Ian Wernham Cllr Roger Wilson Wycombe District Councillor

Tel: 01628 440130 Mob: 07515 384789 Tel: 01628 475726 Mob: 07984 929812

Tel: 01628 482648

South East Ward

Please note: councillor’s e-mail addresses are being revised and will be published shortly

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If you wish to include an article in

please contact Jan Bailey at the Town Council Office on 01628 484024 or email:jan@marlowtowncouncil.org.uk the

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i know where that is quiz!

How good is your knowledge of Marlow? See if you can identify where these pictures were taken. Answers on page 18

Picture 4

Picture 1

Picture 3

Picture 5

Picture 2

marlow music festival The Marlow Music Festival will return this November filling the town with all sorts of wonderful music from pianists, instrumentalists, choirs and vocalists. Now in its 16th year, the festival will take place between the 4th - 17th November at the Court Garden Leisure Centre and All Saints Church.

Unlike the music festivals that take place in muddy fields there is no need for wellies but rock bands are still very much welcome!

Musicians of all ages and abilities take to the stage to perform in front of a friendly audience and a brilliant adjudicator who gives expert feedback that will help and inspire their musical careers.

The entire festival is designed to build confidence.

Chairman Janina Doroszkowska says, “The Marlow Music Festival rewards hard work and celebrates achievement.

We want people to improve musically and further their passion for music and we believe our festival is a safe and encouraging setting to do this!�

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Trophies and medals are won and everyone receives a certificate not to mention tailored advice. Those musicians working towards exams can use the festival as a practise ground or for a GCSE/A level Music assessment.

Throughout the two week period there are lots of classes for different instruments and for different ages. A special concert closes the festival, featuring those who stood out for their ability or potential and just like the the entire process, this concert is open to the public.

If you want to come and listen or if you’d like to enter the festival please go online to www. marlowmusicfestival.co.uk where you can see the syllabus and select the classes for you. The deadline for entry is the first week of October. For all other enquiries please contact Rhiannon Scott at 01494 677611.

On a final note the music organisers of this festival can guarantee there is absolutely no need for an umbrella!

www.marlowtowncouncil.org.uk

marlow rowing club On 3rd August Marlow Rowing Club was seriously damaged by a large fire that took 55 firemen and 8 appliances to deal with. The fire is understood to be accidental and since it occurred in the early hours no-one was hurt. It has left the older half of the club, by Marlow bridge, damaged beyond repair and the whole club damaged by fire, smoke and water. The building is currently unusable and leaves hundreds of members of the club without a base. The club is an iconic part of the Marlow scene and the burnt out clubhouse is very visible as you enter the town from the south. The damage to the old section meant that many of the historic items in the club bar were damaged or lost, although many items – such as the War Memorial – were saved with little or no damage.

The club immediately announced that it wanted to recover and rebuild. Within a couple of weeks the club had gone to Maidenhead regatta and won the Victor Ludorum prize for most successful club, restarted its public learn to row courses, and launched a “Fire and Buildings” fund to cover lost earnings from the club buildings, recovery costs and rebuilding. The club was insured but insurance never covers everything.

The weekend after the fire the club was out collecting in the street and raised almost £2,000 from public donations.

Donations now stand at over £16,000 which will help the club survive.

The most damaged part of the club will have to be demolished as it is unsafe, but the club plans to stay on its current site and rebuild. The cost of that rebuilding is not known at the moment, but a new building will have to meet modern requirements and standards.

Over the coming months the club will get back into the less damaged part of the club and start the process of rebuilding. To keep up date with the progress of the club, make donations, see how you can help or find out more see the club’s website at www. marlowrowingclub.org.uk, or follow them on Facebook (www.facebook.com/ marlowrc) or Twitter (@marlow_rowing). the

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flying high as higginson park receives Green Flag Award

Local children took a break from playing in the sunshine to help the Chairman of Wycombe District Council, Cllr Ian McEnnis, celebrate Higginson Park’s eighth consecutive Green Flag Award.

Higginson Park, managed by Wycombe District Council with grounds maintenance contracted to John O’Conner (Grounds Maintenance) Ltd, is one of the most popular parks in the district and welcomes almost 1 million visitors a year. The Green Flag has become a familiar sight in Higginson Park, with this the eighth year the park has received the prestigious award.

Green Flag Awards recognise and reward the best parks in the country. Higginson Park in Marlow stood out after impressing the national judges with its excellent use of green space, well-maintained facilities and high standard of safety and security.

All award-winning sites now have the chance to receive a further award from the Green Flag Plus Partnership, the People’s Choice Award. This award is voted for by the public, so if you want to see your local park receive a national accolade as the people’s choice, then visit the Green Flag Award website now to register your vote.

For more information about parks and open spaces in the Wycombe district, visit www.wycombe.gov.uk/councilservices/leisure-and-culture/parks-and-recreation.aspx.

ihelp The Bucks Freemasons have run the ihelp competition again in 2011. ihelp is a youth initiative for children aged 7 to 18 who are doing good for their local communities in Buckinghamshire.

The ihelp initiative will be running again for 2012 and we hope that local Marlow groups will get involved and win some of the prize money available, to enter please contact John Poulter on 07836 313633 or go the web site www.buckspgl.org. ihelp has been created by Buckinghamshire Freemasons to offer young people the opportunity to show that they care for others and the society that they live in.

It is designed to: • Motivate young people to undertake a community help project • Encourage them to develop empathy and compassion for others • Develop their values in relation to their locality and its environment • Allow them to recognise the importance of charity and to respond to the needs of others • help balance the face of media reporting of young people from ‘hoodies’ that cause fear in our communities to caring citizens who are an asset to our society.

There was a total of £13,750 of prize money with £250 being awarded to youth projects who were successful in getting through to the heat finals. There were 25 in total, five in each main Masonic centre in Bucks. The five winners of the heats went on to the final which took place at the Beaconsfield Masonic centre on the 10th July

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2011.

The winner, Beaconsfield School, received a further £5,000, the runner up, Stokenchurch Scouts, received £1,000 and the other three, 1st Princes Risborough Scout Group, Gatehouse School, Milton Keynes and the 1st Langley Scouts, also received a further £500.

The judges for the final included the Marlow Town Mayor, Cllr Jocelyn Towns, who said: ‘I was really pleased to be asked to help with the judging, although a very difficult decision to make, as all the teams presented true dedication and inspiration, a very impressive line-up, and a very interesting afternoon’.

In addition teams will be competing for cash prizes by carrying out a community help project and submitting details to the ihelp judges. The winning teams can then offer additional assistance to others by designating their prize money to recognised young people’s activities or a charity of their choice.

Who can enter ihelp? Any group of young people can enter.

The group must consist of a minimum of 3 young people who, as at Ist January 2012, are aged from 7 to18 and have an adult leader who is over 21 years of age.

Entrants must be prepared to implement a local community project in Buckinghamshire, or close to the proximity of the county border as shown in the postcode list (see website www.buckspgl.org for details ).

www.marlowtowncouncil.org.uk

the history of swan upping

Today apart from The Crown, only three bodies have

maintained their rights to own swans.

These are the Ilchester family which owns the swans breeding in the colony at Abbotsbury, Dorset and the two Livery Companies, the Vintners and Dyers. These two Companies, together with The Crown, maintain the tradition of Swan Upping on the River Thames – although the emphasis is on conservation.

Swan Upping occurs in the third week of July. The Swan Uppers, dressed in uniform, travel in six traditional wooden skiffs, two each for The Crown, the Vintners and the Dyers. Formerly Swan Upping took place between London and Henley, but nowadays the journey begins at Sunbury and ends at Abingdon. The Uppers take five days to cover the 79 miles.

On locating a family of swans, the

Uppers give the cry “All-Up” and the boats converge on the brood, surrounding them with the boats and take them ashore for examination and marking. Originally, the two companies made their own marks on the birds’ beaks, one nick for a Dyers’ bird and two for a Vintners’. Today the two companies use their own rings. The swans belonging to The Crown are left unmarked.

Once caught, the broods are taken ashore, where they are examined

by The Queen’s Swan Warden for disease or injury. The most common injury is caused by fishing tackle; swans often swallow bread

containing hooks or swim through fishing lines and become entangled.

Some of these injuries can be dealt with on the riverbank, but others, such as a hook down the throat, require an expensive operation and a long period of recuperation and the birds have to be taken to a rescue organisation for treatment.

These organisations are supported

by Vintners’ and Dyers’ Livery companies.

The Queen’s Swan Marker establishes the ownership of the parent birds and determines how ownership of the brood should be allocated. The Swan Markers of the two Livery companies then place their rings on the cygnets’ legs. The birds retained by The Crown are left unmarked. The Swan Uppers then return the brood to the river taking care that the cygnets do not become separated from their parents.

The Swan Upping census provided a unique record of the numbers of swans present on the River Thames between London and Henley in the

past. Numbers were low at the beginning of the last century and rose steadily until about 1940. The

number fell during the Second World War and then rose steadily again, reaching more than 1300 birds by the mid-1960’s. Thereafter the number started to fall dramatically from a maximum of 76 pairs with cygnets on the London to Henley stretch, to only 7 in 1985. Research showed that lead poisoning, largely from swallowing lead fishing weights, was a major factor in the decline. Most lead weights were banned in the late1980’s, after which the swan population steadily increased again.

The river and its wildlife provide a valuable amenity for the British public and it is particularly important that new generations learn how to appreciate it and respect it.

Swan Uppers regard the opportunity to tell schoolchildren about swans as an important element of Swan Upping. The Uppers meet with parties of schoolchildren along the river, introduce them to swans and discuss the history of Swan Upping.

They also explain the Swans’ biology and how Swan Upping contributes to the conservation of the swan population today. Young anglers in particular are warned of the dangers of fishing and are taught to be careful to avoid injuring wildlife.

Extracts taken from the official Swan Upping publication by HM Swan Marker

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Historically the reigning King or Queen was entitled to claim ownership of any unmarked mute swans swimming in open water or to give such rights to others. It is not known when this custom began but the first written record of the swan as a royal bird dates back to around 1186 and relates to a number of birds in a captive state, suggesting that the custom of owning swans may have already been in existence for many years.

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marlow allotments association Marlow Allotments Association represents the interests of tenants on the two Town Council sites at Foxes Piece and Hanging Hill. Now in our 28th year we have an established and mutually beneficial partnership with the Town Council in helping to maintain and raise standards on both allotment sites. Full occupancy with all plots being well cultivated is a shared objective.

The allotments provide healthy outdoor exercise for Marlow’s residents and, of course, healthy food for all the family. It is no surprise that allotment gardening continues to increase in popularity nationally and Marlow is no exception. There are currently 38 people on the waiting list for plots.

This number would be even higher had we not been able to clear land at Hanging Hill, which had become covered with brambles during the decades when allotment gardening had lost its appeal. More than 7 years ago the Association, concerned at the overgrown state of a large part of the site, set up a work party to begin clearance.

Following this initiative, which involved a small number of volunteers over several winters, the Town Council

agreed to bring in a contractor to clear a much larger area much more quickly. More recently the Community Pay Back group has been employed to complete the work and most of the site has now been brought back into cultivation. There are now 40 tenants at Hanging Hill who have been able to take on plots thanks to this work.

Plots at Foxes Piece are however in greater demand due to its more central location.

This year we got off to a good start with the exceptionally warm spring, so despite the cool summer months many allotment gardeners have experienced a generally productive season and bumper yields of soft fruit.

But allotment gardening is a year round occupation.

Experienced gardeners will ensure that harvesting crops and preparing the ground for the spring continues over winter.

Peter England Secretary Marlow Allotments Association September 2011 The AGM will be held on 29th November at 7.30pm in the General Higginson Room, Court Garden

The Marlow Museum is pleased to announce their latest exhibition in a line of well received displays in recent years commencing Saturday 23rd July entitled “The Marlow Donkey – our Railway.” The history and story of the coming of the railway to Marlow, Bucks in 1873.

The exhibition features railway items from the branch, visual displays with photographs of the past including local people. An opportunity to add stories and memories to a Special Visitor’s Book. Try lifting a fireman’s shovel!

This exhibition is sponsored by First Great Western (FGW) who currently provide the rail service from Marlow to London and Reading via Maidenhead. Mark Hopwood, Managing Director of FGW says “We are delighted to be supporting this fascinating exhibition. The railway is hugely important for Marlow, for both business and leisure travel and it is good to see how it has developed since it started. I want to see that development continue and for services to remain thriving for at least another 138 years.”

The Marlow Museum is situated at Court Garden House, Pound Lane, Marlow, SL7 2AE. Open Saturdays and Sundays 1-5pm. Pay & Display parking on site.

MUSEUM ENTRY IS FREE, FREE, FREE! 10

www.marlowtowncouncil.org.uk

The Royal British Legion are looking for volunteers to assist with collections for the Poppy Appeal on 29th October, 1st,4th,5th, 8th, 11th and 12th November in Marlow. If you are able to assist this very worthwhile cause, please contact Shaun Murphy shaunmurphy@btopenworld.com or barbaramurphy@btopenworld.com or call 01628 474482.

The railway came to Marlow on 28th June 1873 in time

Railway (GWR) had taken an interest in the project and

for the Annual Regatta. Apparently it was so popular

appointed Directors to the Great Marlow Railway Board.

that extra trains were run. Nowadays its 7 day-a-week

They carried out alterations at Bourne End for the new

service is frequented mainly by commuters, shoppers

junction and erected a signal box and new goods shed.

and school children.

There was even a plan to run on from Marlow to Henley but the idea was not pursued. The Great Marlow Railway was run from the outset by the GWR using an 0-4-2 Saddle Tank engine. The initial engine, No522, was built in 1868.

Probably from the start the train was known locally as ‘The Marlow Donkey’ for which several explanations can be given. Marlow had an attractive station which unfortunately was demolished in 1968 when a single platform was erected in a former coal siding. The remainder of the site was sold off and is now part of the adjoining business park. The line through Bourne End to Wycombe and beyond was run down over the next few years until May 1970 when this part of the line was

To begin the story of Marlow’s railway you need to go

closed and rails lifted leaving the dog-leg line we know

back to the Wycombe Railway. A line from Maidenhead

today.

(then a Great Western railway station near Taplow) to High Wycombe via Boyn Hill, Cookham, Marlow Road (later named Bourne End), Wooburn Green and Loudwater opened in August 1854. At a public meeting held in December 1864, the town MP Col. Brownlow Knox supported by local dignitaries, stated that ‘a railway in Marlow would be most beneficial and improve the town.’ A Bill was lodged before Parliament in 1865 to ‘extend’ the railway to Great Marlow but it was not until 1868 that the Act was given Royal Assent.

After much delay in raising capital, finding suitable contractors and acquiring land, the first sod was turned in November 1871! By 1873 it was said that work was progressing. Meantime the Great Western Information by kind permission of First Great Western who are sponsoring the exhibition currently on display in Marlow Museum the

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david walliams vs the thames

River deep, Walliams high: He’s done it! 13th September 2011 After powering through 107,062 strokes, burning 65,574 calories, and suffering eight days of pain, David Walliams has finally completed The BT Sport Relief Challenge: Walliams vs The Thames.

Despite having to battle a nasty bacterial bug, itchy water flea bites and bitingly cold water that threatened a serious case of hypothermia, David completed 140.54 miles - seven times the length of the channel - as he triumphantly crossed the Westminster finish line at 6.24pm (on Monday 12th September) to huge, roaring crowds of supporters cheering him on from the banks of the river. So far, he’s raised a staggering £1,093,325, and the money is still coming in.

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Speaking after completing his amazing and courageous feat, David addressed the thousands of people that had come to support him and said: “Thank you for your waves, thank you for your cheers but most of all thank you for your donations.”

He went on to say: “Thank you from the bottom of my heart because you really will make a difference to people’s lives.”

As well as his wife, Lara Stone, and his mother, Kathleen, David was greeted by a whole host of celebrities including Lenny Henry, Miranda Hart, Barbara Windsor, Tanni GreyThomson, Mark Foster and Sir Steve Redgrave.

www.marlowtowncouncil.org.uk

The great British public kept David going throughout his gruelling challenge as people came out in their droves to cheer him on. The donations are also coming in and people can still sponsor David here.

The epic challenge started last Monday 5th September when David set off from as close to the source of the Thames as possible in Lechlade, Gloucestershire.

David’s wife, Lara Stone, sounded the klaxon as he waded his way into the 15 degree water - colder than the English Channel which David swam in 2006.

Despite the excitement, just a short while into the swim David’s trainer, Greg Whyte, spotted a blue tinge on David’s back - the first signs of hypothermia. So, although David preferred to swim in trunks,

Greg insisted David changed into his wetsuit at the first stop as a matter of urgency. Fortunately he fought off hypothermia but the torrential weather conditions meant David fell drastically behind schedule.

Fuelling up on bowls of porridge and protein bars eaten in the water, David tried his hardest to bounce back from a difficult day one, but three days into the challenge the filthy river became too much for the swimming hero. Despite doing his best to avoid sickness, David contracted a nasty stomach bug and suffered severe vomiting and diarrhoea.

With his body cramping and his appetite failing, David was only managing to stomach small amounts of food and as a result, his trainer Greg Whyte became increasingly concerned about David’s physical state.

Things were looking better the next day though as David was visited by good friend Jimmy Carr who came out to meet him at Shiplake Lock on Friday morning to give him some on-river vocal support.

Over the weekend David, having completed nearly 100 miles of arduous swimming, even halted his progress to save a struggling dog who had jumped into the water to greet him.

As sponsors of the challenge, BT has given £40,000 for each day of the challenge but today gave £50,000 to make a total of £330,000 to support David’s swim. This makes up part of the £1million it has committed to raise in support of The BT Sport Relief challenges - a series of celebrity challenges sponsored by BT for Sport Relief 2012. BT also asked people to join in and become part of David’s swim by ‘trunking’ - posting pictures of themselves donning goggles and a swimming pose in a take on the latest internet craze ‘planking’.

Members of the public should not try this challenge themselves. Swimming in the tidal Thames is incredibly dangerous and many people, including strong swimmers, have drowned in its waters. The powerful tides have overpowered even the strongest swimmers; eddies and undertows can suck swimmers under in seconds, keeping them below the surface for days; busy river traffic includes 200,000 leisure craft trips and cold water can cripple even the most accomplished swimmers causing involuntary breathing spasms when submerged. David had an extensive specialist support team who are experts in this field and prioritised his safety throughout.

To take on a challenge of your own to support Sport Relief 2012, enter the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile today at www. sportrelief.com.

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Victoria House Day Nursery opens in the heart of Marlow.

Little Zoe Bingham may not be two years old yet but for the past few months she has had a new day nursery in the heart of Marlow named after her.

The new Childbase nursery in Victoria Road, was affectionately known as ‘Zoe’s Nursery’ during re-building works because she was the first child enrolled.

Following a private visit to ‘her’ nursery, on the site of the old Red Cross Hall in Marlow, Zoe was greeted by newly-elected deputy Mayor of Marlow, Cllr. Suzanne Brown, and Childbase CEO, Mike Thompson, when the doors to Victoria House were opened to all children on September 12th.

Mrs. Bingham, a recruitment consultant newly arrived in Marlow, later explained: “Childbase nurseries came highly recommended and following a visit to Mulberry in Maidenhead I was confident that Victoria House would be perfect for Zoe. After two days, she is already bonding with her key worker, Natasha, and clearly enjoying her surroundings. I am very happy,” she said.

Victoria House is the second new day nursery in the employee-owned company, Childbase, to open this year.

Of the 41 day nurseries and a school operating in the South of England, nearly half are rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted making Childbase a leader in early years provision nationwide.

Victoria House Manager, Karen Vockins, who has worked in the childcare sector for 18 years, said she is looking forward to showing off the new facilities, which can cater for 48 children aged from six weeks to 5 years, to prospective parents and children.

appropriate, rooms offering children the opportunity to dream in a fairy wigwam; role play in the home corners with little kitchens and equipment, or enjoy learning at an interactive ‘Smart Board’. Cosy book areas, teddies, dolls and toys fill each room and a tranquil home-like ‘sleep room’ is a perfect haven for the under 2’s at naptime.

All rooms have access to a large enclosed garden which offers a variety of natural surfaces like grass, pebbles and bark with paths leading through areas of interest.

A timber fort with flagpole and ‘outside exploration stations’ for studying mini-beasts and natural ‘finds’ are just some of the attractions, while the herb garden and a vegetable patch enable the children to plant, grow and harvest food providing the basis for ‘lessons’ in conservation and healthy eating. The under 2’s have their own enclosed decked area for safe outside fun.

Solar panels are just one of the environmentally friendly features of the building which will also be powered by green energy, Ecotricity, which makes electricity from the sun and wind.

Celebrating individuality and diversity is at the heart of the Childbase approach to early years provision.

By working closely with parents, staff gain a thorough understanding of each child’s background, needs, interests and capabilities and by continual observation and interaction they can build on what the child knows and plan for their continued development. Innovative and inspirational ideas are adapted for each of the different age groups to support the principles laid out in the statutory EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) so that learning is always fun.

Operating under the banner ‘We all contribute, We all benefit” Childbase is a Sunday Times Top 100 company to work for, achieving 23rd place this year and second place overall for its commitment to training and career development for its workforce.

Childbase has four National Training Awards to its credit, is a finalist in this year’s prestigious National Business Awards and was named ‘Outstanding’ in the Best Companies Accreditation system missing out on ‘Extraordinary’ status by just four points.

Anyone wishing to visit Victoria House for a personal tour of the facilities should contact the nursery on 01628 –

488548.

For further information contact: Fiona Young, Childbase PR Manager T. 01923 857097 M. 07887555192 email:fiona.young@childbase.com

“I have a team of highly trained and motivated staff who are committed to recognising and celebrating each child’s individuality. A confident and secure child will forge friendships and thrive on new experiences so the path to learning and realising their full potential is then established,” said Karen.

A qualified aerobics instructor and a trained singer, Karen said she was looking forward to encouraging the children in her care in these pursuits.

“Singing, acting and exercise are not only fun and instrumental in overcoming shyness and engaging children, they also provide an important basis for learning about, and promoting, a healthy lifestyle,” she said. Victoria House has three bright and airy, age-

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four seasons club In July 2011 the club reached its fortieth anniversary.

100 members enjoyed a celebratory tea accompanied by the founder of the club Mrs Dorothy Bruce. Mrs Yvonne Sargeant & Mr Roger Wilson, the President and Chairman of the M.C.A. respectively and the Mayor Jocelyn Towns together with the current chairman Michael Watson, were also at the top table.

After tea and a suitable Toast, we were entertained with songs from the forties up to and including music from Les Miserables sung by Sue Combs which we all thoroughly enjoyed. The afternoon ended with every one joining in a rendition of Jerusalem.

The club is continuing to provide diverse activities including a theatre trip to War Horse and two days out to Cheltenham & Tewkesbury, and to Coventry with a Blue Badge Guide. Later in the year there will be a Turkey and Tinsel Weekend, so as you can see time does not stand still.

Any enquiries about membership or activities should be addressed to Norma Bowles the Membership Secretary on 01628 483038.

your neighbourhood policing team

They also visit victims of crime and are able give crime prevention advice.

We are fortunate in Marlow to have an excellent working relationship with the Town Council and they provide the funding for one of the Community Support officers.

The team also consists of officers from the Special Constabulary. These officers are all unpaid volunteers but they are well trained and have all of the powers of a Constable when on duty. Finally I come to the most important part of the Neighbourhood policing family – You the public. Keeping our neighbourhoods safe is not the sole responsibility of the police and the local authority. All of us whether it is parents, schools, residents or visitors have a part to play and if we work together then we can make a real difference. The recent disorder seen in our cities has been well matched by the communities coming together and it does demonstrate how powerful strong community spirit is.

Despite the gloomy fiscal news I can reassure you that your neighbourhood team has not lost any staff and is unlikely to in the future.

Your Neighbourhood team have three main priorities.

That is to deal with anti social behaviour, to reduce crime and to gather intelligence. Marlow is still a very safe place to live but it is not crime free. We have had several recent thefts from vehicles where the vehicle was not even locked. The message is clear, lock your vehicle and don’t leave anything valuable in it. I would also ask you to fit tamper proof number plate screws as the plates are still being stolen across the area. If you want to find out more about your local neighbourhood team including your local crime figures then visit our website at www.thamesvalley.police.uk You can contact your Neighbourhood policing team on the non emergency number 08458 505505 Inspector Ray Wilks

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Your local police team are dedicated to dealing with the local issues that really affect our communities. They do not normally provide the instant response when the public require help in an emergency; that is provided by others. They are here to listen to the concerns of residents and other stakeholders and to deal with the problems that affect their quality of life. The team consists of Neighbourhood Specialist Officers.

These are experienced officers who have responsibility for a particular Neighbourhood. They are supported by Neighbourhood officers and Community Support Officers.

Whilst the PCSO’s do not have the same powers as police officers they do an excellent job in patrolling your streets. They focus mainly of our crime hotspots and the areas identified as having problems by the community.

They provide reassurance and gather intelligence.

Indeed over the past year we have arrested several burglars on the intelligence gathered by our PCSO’s.

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Hamptons Marlow 01628 485234

www.hamptons.co.uk Seasonal Update This issue of The Marlovian leads us into the autumn season at the end of a mixed summer. We all know what a lovely part of the world we live in which is one of the main attractions to potential buyers looking to move here. Making your home look its best is still critical so there are some key areas to address to avoid missing out on a sale.

As the days draw in earlier, make sure that you illuminate dark rooms. A well lit room makes a huge difference to the first impression so use table lamps to enhance your home. If you have energy efficient bulbs turn them on early so that they are fully lit before the viewing takes place.

Gardens will now start to need a bit more attention, especially if you have many trees in your grounds. If your garden is a particular feature and selling point of your property, let the buyer see it. A blanket of fallen leaves will easily hide it and give rise to questions as to what lies beneath. Have fun with the family and spend an afternoon sweeping the leaves away to show the house at its best. Has your heating been serviced over the summer months? If not make sure that it is working. As temperatures drop so does the appeal of a freezing cold house. Making your property homely with attractive lighting is one thing but if the buyers walk into a fridge-like house then they will be thinking of how to keep warm rather than be considering buying your property. A warm home will welcome a positive comment and allow us to be able to promote your property to its best. It also avoids the big question as to whether the central heating actually works!

For more helpful advice call into our High Street offices and speak with one of our staff.

Welcome The newest member of our Marlow sales team joined us at the same time as we moved to our new prestigious offices in the High Street in July. Sophie Laurie is a local resident having lived in the area her whole life. With a bright and positive personality she has been welcomed by our staff and clients alike. Sophie comments, “Hamptons International have made me very welcome and I am keen to further my experience with them.

Marlow is such a great place to work and I look forward to helping future customers find their new home”.

Lettings Update Supply Surge is Moderating Rental Growth The Hamptons International lettings network followed directly on the heels of last month’s record sales performance with a record month of its own. The continued growth in supply of new rental stock contributed to this strong performance, now up 27 percent since August 2010.

The growing availability of rental properties is also good news for renters, as there is much more choice on offer. However it is still very much a landlord’s market, so we would recommend moving quickly once the right property has been identified.

A higher supply environment has begun to arrest the rental growth we have seen over the past 18 months. This will provide some stability in the market with increasing transaction volumes in most areas. However, strong demand would imply that rents are unlikely to lose any of the gains of the past year.

LONDON-COUNTRY Thousands of Londoners are looking for a home outside the capital.

Register your property for our Central London Town & Country Property Show, taking place on Thursday 13th October, and we’ll ensure it’s seen by London’s keenest buyers and tenants.

Utilising our 22 branches across the capital, we can put your property at the very heart of the lucrative London market and expose it to thousands of people.

The Hamptons International Town and Country exhibition, which is now in its seventh successive year, capitalises on the company’s local and trusted network of offices to showcase properties. The offices, which span regions across the South of England including those in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Surrey, Sussex, Oxfordshire, Avon and the Cotswolds, will all bring properties from both sellers and landlords.

WANTED

Hamptons International urgently requires quality rented accommodation in Marlow and its surrounding villages for a number of high calibre, corporate applicants. Requirements range from two bedroom apartments to country homes for tenants seeking immediate occupation. Whether you have a property to let or are considering moving now or in the near future, please do not hesitate to contact us. 01628 482598

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www.marlowtowncouncil.org.uk

Hamptons Marlow Sales. 01628 485234 marlow@hamptons-int.com

Ibstone, Buckinghamshire Guide Price £1,650,000. Freehold

An attractive detached brick and flint period home which has been sympathetically extended and now offers spacious and versatile family accommodation.

Within approximately one acre of formal gardens and woodland with double garage and extensive parking.

Marlow, Buckinghamshire Guide Price £1,000,000 Freehold

A fine family residence in an elevated position with far reaching views.

The well proportioned accommodation includes many character features enhancing the external Tudor style.

Marlow, Buckinghamshire Guide Price £475,000 Freehold

Within enclosed gardens and a level walk of the town, this spacious and characterful period semi detached house offers accommodation ideal for a family home.

Reassuringly Professional. Surprisingly Dynamic.

Hamptons International won the Best for Innovation award at the 2010 Estate Agency of the Year Awards in association with The Sunday Times and The Times, recognising its innovative marketing approach and launch of the Hamptons International app for iPhone and iPad. Call us to find out how we can use our market-leading approach to help you.

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A VERSION OF THIS PUBLICATION IS AVAILABLE IN LARGER PRINT Please contact Marlow Town Council on

01628 484024 if you would like a copy

i know where that is quiz answers Picture 1 - Cemetery Gate, Picture 2 - Balfour Gardens, Picture 3 - Frohman Statue, Picture 4 - Queens Cottage, Oxford Road, Picture 5 - Holy Trinity School

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www.marlowtowncouncil.org.uk

Villa d'Este

2 Chapel Street, Marlow, Bucks 01628 472012/474798

The Finest Italian Cuisine In Elegant Surroundings Family run & established for 25 years Villa d'Este creates an authentic Italian Cuisine from the centre of Italy cooked with freshest ingredients.

Our tempting menu includes plenty of fish, fresh pasta and vegetarian options & mouth watering home-made deserts.

2 COURSE LUNCH SPECIALS OFFERED EVERY DAY- ÂŁ13.50 Private Functions welcome- seating available 70/90

Open 7 days a week Lunch 12.30pm-2.30pm Dinner 7.00pm-10.30pm Our Henley restaurant is the Villa Marina

VILLA D'ESTE VILLADESTE-MARLOW.COM

VILLA MARINA VILLAMARINA-HENLEYONTHAMES.COM

01628 472012/474798

01491 575262

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Dine in Style for just £15

Award-winning Bowaters restaurant, overlooking the River Thames, is offering Marlovians the opportunity to enjoy 2 courses from the Market Menu for just £15.00 for lunchtimes from Monday to Friday in October and November. Perhaps choose some warming Butternut squash and ginger soup followed by Braised medallions of beef with curly kale and root vegetables. Then, round it all off with a third course of Bramley apple and blackberry crumble and vanilla custard for just an extra £4.00. This is the perfect chance to enjoy a discounted lunch at The Compleat Angler. We look forward to welcoming you.

This voucher entitles the holder to a 2 course Market lunch for £15.00 or 3 courses for £19.00 Reservations should be made in advance with the offer mentioned at the time of booking NAME ADDRESS

MARKET MENU

Available in October & November Starters Butternut squash and ginger soup Warm salad of pan seared mackerel, lemon and caper dressing Roasted marinated vegetables and artichoke with prosciutto, parmesan shavings and wild rocket Smoked kipper and bacon, watercress sauce mains Braised medallions of beef, curly kale and roasted root vegetables, creamed potatoes Mixed grill of Shetland salmon, sole and tiger prawns, roasted cherry tomatoes, bearnaise sauce and Carol’s heritage hand cut chips Confit belly of outdoor reared pork, braised red cabbage, confit potato and buttered beans, bramley apple sauce Basil gnocchi, dolcelatte cream sauce, salad of young leaves and woodland mushrooms desserts Bramley apple and blackberry crumble, vanilla custard

EMAIL PHONE NUMBER telephone : 0844 879 9128 website www.MacdonaldHotels.co.uk/Compleat Angler

Ginger cheesecake, ginger ice cream Warm dark chocolate tart, passion fruit sorbet A selection of British Cheese (supplement £2.00)

Macdonald Compleat Angler Marlow, Buckinghamshire, SL7 1RG T 0844 879 9128 F 01628 486 388 E events.compleatangler@macdonald-hotels.co.uk www.MacdonaldHotels.co.uk/Compleat Angler Terms and conditions apply

ARNOLD FUNERAL SERVICE www.MacdonaldHotels.co.uk/Compleat Angler

PANTONE 241 C27 M100 K2 R 181 G 26 B 138

Independent family Business - Home visits by appointment

Pre-payment plans available

The Old Forge Wethered Road

MARLOW

01628 898866 2 4

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H O U R

S E R V I C E

BLACK K100

If you’re interested in advertising in The Marlovian, please contact The Flying Pigs on 07912 696658 or helen@flyingpigsmarketing.co.uk MAGENTA M20

...let us give your business wings

www.marlowtowncouncil.org.uk

Marlow Evening

Townswomen’s Guild

CALLING...... All ladies that are searching

for an organisation where they can meet regularly, exchange ideas, develop new skills, and more importantly have FUN.

Marlow Evening Townswomen’s Guild meet at Liston Hall on the first Wednesday of each month at 7.45pm. We host a speaker at each meeting, which is followed by coffee and biscuits, and the chance to meet and chat to friends and new members.

In addition to our monthly meetings, we have various groups for members to participate. They are - Drama, Craft, Social Studies, Birdwatching, Rummicub, Sunday Club and a monthly Pub Lunch.

All new members are made very welcome, so come along and check us out.

URGENT URGENT PLEASE NOTE that for patient transport and escort services the telephone number has changed to

07841 863674

For more information please contact: Yvonne Sargeant

01628 483285

is a new way to donate money to charity and in Marlow two charities, Marlow Age Concern and Riley Park Trust are the first to have set this up, to help you give a DONATION more easily. You can text and give £2, £5 or £10. The Charity receives all the donation, no fees apply.

Both these charities are independent and rely on donations and volunteers to exist and if you are a taxpayer it will work out the gift aid for you as well.

PLEASE GIVE BY TEXT:- If you want to give to

Marlow Age Concern,

text:-MACT10 £5 to 70070 to give £5

If you want to give to

Riley Park, your park,

text:-RPTF10 £5 to 70070 to give £5

THANK YOU FRIENDS.

PLEASE

TELL

YOUR

If you would like to come to Marlow Age Concern and have a coffee, our next fundraising event is our Coffee Morning on Saturday 19th November.

MARLOW AGE CONCERN

NEW FOR 2011 After 65 years supporting older people local charity Age Concern Bucks is now celebrating changing its name and branding to become Age UK Buckinghamshire.

Age UK Bucks will still be the independent charity helping local older people to have a better quality of life.

It will continue to provide tailored support and services for people living in the area, including Information & Advice, Advocacy, Welfare Benefits, Befriending and Rural Day Care.

But the even better news for older people who are finding it a bit of a struggle to manage everything at home, there are a range of services which will come to you to make your life easier.

So if you need a Handyperson, Painting & Decorating, Neat Feet toe nail cutting, domestic house cleaning & laundry, Gardening, Computer Lessons, Therapeutic Massage of feet, hands, shoulders, Gardening, Mobile Hairdressing or even help with relocating or with Independent financial advice – just call Age UK Bucks on

01296 431911.

Please note that Marlow Age Concern, in Glade Road, Marlow, is a separate independent charity.

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JustText Giving,

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Sir Michael Parkinson Guest Speaker at Macmillan Cancer Support Lunch Macdonald Compleat Angler, Marlow: Friday 4th November Sir Michael Parkinson will be the guest speaker at a Macmillan Cancer Support lunch in the elegant riverside Macdonald Compleat Angler Hotel, Marlow, on Friday, 4th November.

Starting his career as a local newspaper journalist, Sir Michael became best known for his television talk shows during which he interviewed more than 3,000 of the world’s most famous people. He was awarded a CBE in June 2000 and a knighthood for services to broadcasting in the 2008 New Year’s honours list.

Speaking after the lunch, Sir Michael will present witty and absorbing extracts from his latest book Parky’s People: The Interviews - 100 of the Best Guests are welcome from 11.30am to enjoy a drink in the cocktail bar, which will be followed by a two-course set lunch served at 12.30pm including coffee and a glass of wine (vegetarian option available).

Macmillan Cancer Support is dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by cancer. The charity’s professionals are specialists in their area of cancer care and leaders in their field. They use this knowledge to help people understand more about cancer, manage their symptoms and find practical ways of living with cancer. For more information call 01628 628279, www.macmillan.org.uk.

Handmade Bread & Cakes, Pastries & Chocolates All Freshly made by our staff in our in house bakery behind the shop

Burgers of Marlow Ltd

Open 8.30am - 5.30pm Monday - Saturday Tea Room closes 5.15pm weekdays, 5pm Sat Telephone: 01628 483389 The Causeway, Marlow, Bucks. SL7 1NF.

www.burgersofmarlow.co.uk

To book tickets, which are priced at £30 per person, call the Macdonald Compleat Angler on 0844 879 9128 or the restaurant direct on 01628 405406, www.MacdonaldHotels.co.uk/CompleatAngler.

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The must-have kitchen company

bespoke kitchens Come and see the very best in bespoke kitchen design and installation at our showroom.

OCTIPLAN

• When asked, 97% of our customers said they would recommend us • English manufacturers – no middle men • 20 Year guarantee on furniture • Quality kitchens from £5000 to £75,000 • Kitchens hand-made to any size or colour • Pick your granite from our own yard • Building and tiling work undertaken

established 1984

www.optiplan.co.uk

Optiplan Kitchens: Notcutts Garden Centre, Clay Lane, Booker, Nr High Wycombe, SL7 3DH Tel: 01494 888060

Bartlett Tree Experts Exceptional Trees Deserve Exceptional Care

TREE & SHRUB PRUNING . PLANTING . TREE REMOVAL . TREE STOCK SURVEYS WOODLAND MANAGEMENT . HEALTH & SAFETY REPORTS . DISEASE & INSECT CONTROL ARBORICULTURAL ASSOCIATION APPROVED CONTRACTOR CONTACT YOUR LOCAL ARBORIST FOR A FREE CONSULTATION PLEASE CALL 01494 677 889 OR EMAIL beaconsfield@bartlettuk.com www.bartlett.com the

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CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHTS AT T H E M A C D O N A L D C O M P L E AT A N G L E R

DO YOU HAVE THE TASK OF ORGANISING THIS YEAR’S PART Y AND MAKING IT BET TER THAN THE YEAR BEFORE? MAKE YOUR CHRISTMAS SPECIAL THIS YEAR BY CHOOSING THE MACDONALD COMPLEAT ANGLER HOTEL.

J O I N - A - PA R T Y NIGHTS

P R I VAT E PA R T I E S

We will get Christmas in full ‘swing’ with our ‘Vegas Nights’ and ‘Tribute Nights’.

If you would like to book a private par ty for up to 120 guests, our Regency Suite is perfect to get your Christmas par ty off to a fantastic star t with our exclusive par ty packages.

£50 per person for MARLOVIANS Booking before 31st OCTOBER 2011 (NOR M AL PR ICE £55)

INCLUDING: A glass of Prosecco on arrival | Three course meal | Resident DJ | Entertainment from our own “So Sinatra” & Casino (Vegas Nights only) | Entertainment from ‘Michael Bublé or ‘Rock ‘n’ Roll’ (Tribute Nights only)

Call our events team on

0844 879 9128 or email events.compleatangler@macdonald-hotels.co.uk

MENUS FROM £35 per person Book before the 21st October and we will offer a complimentary overnight stay with a bottle of bubbly for the private party planner!

WE ALSO HAVE AWARDWINNING FESTIVE LUNCHES AND DINNERS SERVED IN OUR BOWATERS RESTAUR ANT FROM £25 PER PERSON

Macdonald Compleat Angler Marlow, Buckinghamshire, SL7 1RG T 0844 879 9128 F 01628 486 388 E events.compleatangler@macdonald-hotels.co.uk www.MacdonaldHotels.co.uk/Compleat Angler Terms and conditions apply

www.MacdonaldHotels.co.uk/Compleat Angler