Shrivenham Station Community News - Summer 2024

Shrivenham Station Community News

NURSING HOME OR HOSPITAL ACCOMMODATION

The expense of temporary residence (including food and nursing care) in a hospital or nursing home; Up to £1,750 per week (£250 per day).

HOME NURSING

The expense of the temporary employment of a qualified nurse or carer. Up to £420 per week (£60 per day).

RECOVERY

The expense of convalescence (including travelling expenses) under medical advice in an accepted establishment. Up to £350 per week (£50 per day).

HOME HELP

The expense of the temporary employment of domestic help. Up to £252 per week (£36 per day).

Lady Grover’s Fund Friendly Society

SCAN HERE

Station Welfare Team...

Maj Anthony Bolton Station Welfare Officer

01793 785786

e: Anthony.bolton@ da.mod.uk

Duty Mobile: 07825 674635

WO1 Mick Mayes

Station Welfare

Warrant Officer

01793 314791

e: michael.mayes656 @mod.gov.uk

or: michael.mayes@ da.mod.uk

Duty Mobile: 07825 674635

Ms Donna Gardner

Families & Welfare Coordinator 01793 780793

e: Donna.gardner@ da.mod.uk

Anthony.bolton@da.mod.uk

01793 785786

Shrivenham Station Welfare Officer

Jubilee Community Centre

Defence Academy of the United Kingdom

Shrivenham SN6 8LA

Please Remember

Items for inclusion in the Summer edition may be submitted at any time but must be received by 8th August 2024 for publication at the end of the month.

Advertising: Jayne Bailey

Lance Media Group Ltd

Tel: (01536) 334219

Email: jayne@lancemediagroup.co.uk FRONT COVER IMAGE: Courtesy of Shutterstock.com

Shrivenham Station Community

News

WHAT'S IN THIS ISSUE...

PROVIDING HEALTHCARE COVER FOR MILITARY OFFICERS AND THEIR FAMILIES SINCE 1911

NURSING HOME OR HOSPITAL ACCOMMODATION

The expense of temporary residence (including food and nursing care) in a hospital or nursing home; Up to £1,750 per week (£250 per day).

HOME NURSING

The expense of the temporary employment of a qualified nurse or carer. Up to £420 per week (£60 per day).

RECOVERY

The expense of convalescence (including travelling expenses) under medical advice in an accepted establishment. Up to £350 per week (£50 per day).

HOME HELP

The expense of the temporary employment of domestic help. Up to £252 per week (£36 per day).

SCAN HERE

Shrivenham Station Welfare House

Shrivenham Station has 4 two-bedroom Welfare (Contact) Houses located on the Watchfield Estate on Folly Crescent (Post Code SN6 8SH). The houses can be used by Shrivenham Station PS and all Students, as a lower priority; external Military ID Card holders, Civil Servants and Contractors with a DMR Pass.

These houses are controlled by Shrivenham Station Welfare Officer. The Welfare Houses are not to be used as permanent accommodation and will only be booked for short term stays. The maximum length of occupation is 14 nights in any 28 night period. In very exceptional circumstances the Welfare Houses may be allocated for longer.

Bookings will be prioritised allocation priority as follows: Emergency Welfare Cases.

Children’s visits for divorced/separated personnel.

Visits by Wives/Husbands/Partners/Children to unaccompanied PS and Students on long courses.

Visits to Students on short or non-residential courses.

Other family visits.

Transit Accommodation during transition between assignments.

The cost of hiring the Welfare Houses is as follows:

A and B: £12.00 per night.

C, D, E, and F: £25.00 per night. Non DEFAC personnel: £35.00 per night.

For more information contact the Welfare Team on 01793 780793.

The Jubilee Community Centre

The Jubilee Community Centre provides facilities for Service Personnel and their families from both the United Kingdom and Overseas together with all other Station Personnel.

The Jubilee Centre is the home of the Station Welfare Officer, Welfare Warrant Officer, two Serco Staff members. We also have our very own Army Welfare Service - Community Development Worker Jayne Russell located within the centre, be sure to stop by and say ‘hello’.

The JCC has two ‘soft play’ areas for young children (under 1metre in height and crawlers) whilst parents can enjoy refreshments from the Coffee Shop which is run by ESS.

The idea behind the centre is to give families (and of course staff and students) a place to meet old and new friends and families of different nationalities in a friendly and personal environment. Several activities are hosted in the JCC, including a few voluntary led events, coffee mornings, play sessions and more. We are also fortunate to be visited regularly by supporting agencies; DAFFYs, Home Start, Pinnacle, Vivo and Serco to name a few.

All activities and events are well advertised and are held for the benefit of the families of Shrivenham Station. Full details of all activities and other events of interest can be found on the JCC notice boards and TV.

The JCC is available for private functions (children’s parties a speciality) for a small hire charge to Defence Academy Pass Holders.

The JCC is located just outside the main entrance to the Station on Faringdon Road, the staff have a

wealth of knowledge and can also provide details regarding local facilities and amenities.

The JCC is open 0730 - 1600hrs Monday to Thursday and 07301200hrs Friday.

The Soft Play Areas are open 0830 - 1515hrs Monday to Thursday and 08301200hrs Friday.

If you have ideas or are looking to start an activity, please contact the Families and Welfare Team on 01793 780793

We look forward to meeting you soon!

We have had a very busy few months with lots of events and new songs to learn.

Military Wives Choir Defence Academy

Christmas seems a very long time ago already, but we sang at a number of carol events on camp as well as the WOSM Christmas function, Swindon Enchanted light trail, St Mary’s Buscot Christmas service and a small singalong for the Ferendune Court residents in Faringdon. On the 8th of December we had a fantastic experience singing in concert with the Wessex Male Voice Choir in Swindon where we performed a good mix of well-known songs along with some Christmas classics. We sang to a large audience, and it was a pleasure to sing with the Wessex choir and we hope to join them again in the future as it is great to be able to perform with such lovely voices in our area.

February saw us sing at the PARAS annual Sunday

Lunch in Kingsclere. It is always an emotive performance for us and one that we are very proud to take part in.

In March we took place in our first competition! The Swindon Music Festival is in its 115th year, a huge celebration of the musical talent in our region. We entered the adult choir section with two other choirs, and we performed  “Seal Lullaby” and “You Will be Found,” at Christ Church in Swindon. The judge was very complimentary of our performance and awarded us a ‘distinction’ with 89 points. Unfortunately, another choir pipped us to the post with a slightly higher score of 90. But we had a great experience and looking forward to next year already!

We are now learning some 1940's songs in preparation for the D-Day celebrations for this year. We will be singing in Hungerford on 29th June so expect to hear lots of Vera Lynn classics and our favourite, “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy”! We will also be in Newbury town centre on 8th June.

We have welcomed some new members to the choir and said goodbye to good friends, too. The choir is always open for new members, and we would love to see you soon. All abilities are welcome, and no auditions or previous experience is needed. The MWC is for spouses and partners of serving and retired military personnel, servicewomen and support staff of the Defence Academy, including Civil Servants, Cranfield, Serco other DA contractors. We are a lively group of all ages and backgrounds. Our main rehearsal is on Thursday evening at 7.30pm-9.30pm at St Alban’s Church and we also meet on Mondays 1030am-12pm at the Jubilee Centre. Our next introduction evening is on 13th June at 7.30pm at St Alban’s Church – we can’t wait to meet you!

Divorce, Finances and Children Employment Law Moving Home Service Complaints, Disciplinary Issues & Administrative Actions Wills, Probate & Estate Planning

Legal clinics are available every other Thursday at the Jubilee Centre, Shrivenham.

FREE LEGAL CLINICS

To book your appointment or for more information, email niki.coombes@parkerbullen.com or call 01993 670944

www.parkerbullen.com

PB_Shrivenham Station_132x190_Proof_V1.indd 1

At Parker Bullen LLP, we are proud to be your dedicated and experienced law firm, serving the community in Witney, Oxfordshire, and beyond. With a rich history of offering high-quality legal services, we have built a strong presence in the region since opening our Witney office in 2022, working closely with the businesses, individuals, families and military personnel who live and work in the area, supporting them with expert legal advice and giving back where we can.

We are lucky to have a team of exceptional legal professionals available from our Witney office, all of whom have a deep understanding of military life. Sarah Dureau, Partner in the firm, has served in the Armed Forces and worked within the Ministry of Defence, providing her with a unique insight that enables her to appreciate the nuances of military life and the experiences you will be facing. Sarah’s expertise includes family matters, from divorce or separation, through to service matters, such as Service Complaints, disciplinary issues and Administrative Actions as well as civil disputes and Employment Law.

Terri Anson-Dean is an Associate in the Family and Relationship team. Terri has over 10 years’ experience supporting and advising her clients on pre-marital agreements, cohabitation and separation agreements, divorce including resolving the finances and/or children matters. Terri is a member of Resolution and is committed to working in a non-confrontational way to resolve matters where possible avoiding Court proceedings using alternative dispute resolution such as mediation and arbitration.

We recognise the importance of supporting the Shrivenham community and have taken a proactive step to ensure the best legal advice is accessible to those serving and their families. To extend our commitment to our military neighbours, we run free legal clinics every other Thursday at the Jubilee Centre. These clinics are exclusively designed to assist Shrivenham personnel and their families with a wide range of legal matters, ensuring you receive the expert guidance you deserve.

Our legal clinics cover a spectrum of legal areas, including Family Law, Wills, Probate and Estate Planning, Conveyancing and moving home, Employment Law and Service Matters including Complaints, Administrative Action and Discipline or any matter arising from your service, and much more.

If you are a part of the Shrivenham community and require legal advice, do come along to our free legal clinics every other Thursday. To book your appointment do contact us on 01993 670944 or email niki.coombes@ parkerbullen.com.

Terri Anson-Dean

1st Watchfield & Shrivenham Cubs Visit Red Watch

Cub Scouts and volunteers from 1st Watchfield & Shrivenham Scout Group had an educational and fun visit to Stratton St Margaret Fire Station in October.

In an exciting conclusion to their ‘Fire Safety’ badge, each of our Cub Packs was treated to a fantastic evening at Stratton St Margaret Fire Station, where they learned about the role of a firefighter and the specialist equipment they use. In what proved to be very much ‘hands-on’ experiences, Cubs got try on some of the personal protective equipment used by firefighters, get behind the wheel of a fire engine, and even use the firehose!

A nine-year-old Cub Scout said, “The fireman were really nice. They told us about all the important things they do to help other people, and how we can help, too. I enjoyed getting

dressed up and using the hose was definitely the best bit!”

Helen Wright, the Group Scout Leader, said, “This is a fun way of helping young people to learn about fire safety, and how they can help look after themselves, their families, and friends. It builds on earlier sessions in which the Cubs have learned about the importance of fire drills, escape plans, smoke and heat detectors, causes of fire, and being safe around a campfire, and how to behave around a bonfire and fireworks. These really are ‘Skills for Life’. Of course, the visit to the fire station is the absolute highlight of it all, and we’re really grateful to Red Watch for looking after our Cub Packs so well.”

The 1st Watchfield & Shrivenham Scout Group is a thriving and active Group based at the Defence Academy. It welcomes children from military families and the local villages and comprises over 100 children (36 Beavers aged 6-8 years; 48 Cubs aged 8-10.5 years, and 30 Scouts aged 10.5-14 years).

Each Section runs a weekly meeting with fun, exciting, and safe indoor and outdoor Scouting activities in and around the Defence Academy and local community. All this is enabled by our adult volunteers and Explorer Young Leaders (aged 1418 years) and a support base including Trustees and Committee Members.

If you’d like to get involved, email: Helen on helenwright@ kascouts.org.uk.

Celebrating St George

Members of 1st Watchfield & Shrivenham Scout Group joined Scouts all over the world in marking and celebrating St George over the weekend of 20-21 April 2024. Scouts, Cub Scouts, and Beaver Scouts – supported by their Leaders and Young Leaders –enjoyed a range of exciting and rewarding activities in locations across Oxfordshire. Many parents enjoyed joining in, too!

Helen Wright, the Group Scout Leader, explained: “Every year, Scouts around the world

commemorate and celebrate St George’s Day, because the founder of Scouts, Robert Baden-Powell, thought that St George perfectly embodied the worthy qualities desired in Scouting and chose him as the Patron Saint of Scouting.”

Legend says that St George visited a town in Silene, in what is now Libya, and found the people there terrorised by a fearsome dragon. The dragon jealously guarded the only source of water and demanded a daily human sacrifice in return for access. St George rode out, slew the dragon, and liberated the town.

Helen said: “Baden-Powell wanted Scouts everywhere to aspire to the qualities of courage, selflessness, and service shown by St George. He wanted St George’s Day to be a moment for Scouts to come together to renew their Scout Promise and reflect on what it means to be a Scout. Young people do this through fun and age-appropriate activities.”

Twelve Scouts joined Scouts and Leaders from 1st Cuckhamsley Group for a ‘backwoods-style’ St George’s Weekend Camp on the Ridgeway. The Scouts cooked using open fires, and slept under tarps either in hammocks or on

the ground ‘bivvy-style’, and found all of this very exciting, although the highlight was preparing and cooking the venison and rabbit kindly provided by a local shoot. Cub Scouts and Beaver Scouts joined the Camp for some of the activities and for the Renewal of Promises ceremony. An elevenyear-old Scout said: ‘Scout Camp was ace! I loved every minute of it! The games, the campfire, making new friends… just everything! And the venison stew

A volunteer serves up venison stew

Breakfast around the campfire

Flying the Scout Flag on Dragon Hill

Flying the Cub Scout Flag on Dragon Hill

was delicious!’ A parent said: ‘My Scout had the most amazing time on the backwoods camp! She has talked of nothing else for days!’ Meanwhile, eight other Scouts were out on a ‘cyclomoot’ (a navigation challenge on bicycles) as part of their Stuart Rae Challenge Award.*

Beaver Scouts from both the Barrington and Beckett Colonies came together on the Saturday for a brilliant afternoon of Campcraft. They learned how to put up and take down tents, made natural art, and cooked marshmallows on a campfire. They later renewed their Beaver Scout Promises at their sessions on the following Monday and Tuesday evenings which fell on St George’s Eve and St George’s Day respectively. A six-year-old Beaver Scout said: ‘Marshmallows

are yummy!” A parent said: “I knew my son would enjoy it but never thought it would be so much fun for me too! I’ll definitely help again next time they do something like this.”

Cub Scouts from both the Chieftain and Challenger Packs were joined by a good number of parents on a St George’s Hike, during which they assembled on Dragon Hill to renew their Cub Scout Promises and welcome a new Leader into Cubs. A nineyear-old Cub said: “I had great fun on the Hike. I love the story of St George and am sure he did visit Dragon Hill. I want to be brave like him.” Helen Wright, the Group Scout Leader, said: “Dragon Hill is such a special place. Local legend tells that the dragon was slain here and that

the place where the grass refuses to grow marks the spot where the dragon’s blood was spilt. We don’t know whether St George ever visited England, but it’s the perfect place to connect with him

Promises

through our own local legend. It really was a magical morning to renew our Promises: the flags flew proudly while the skylarks sang in the blue skies above. The entire weekend was absolutely brilliant and a great opportunity to celebrate St George and reflect on what it means to be a member of Scouting. It was also a chance for me to thank our amazing volunteers who make it possible for the Group to give young people such wonderful experiences and skills for life through Scouting.”

* More on this to come in another edition!

Preparing venison stew

Scouts inspect the rabbits

Scouts gather for breakfast

Learning to make fire

Cub Scouts heading for Dragon Hill Renewing

Here at 1st Watchfield & Shrivenham Scout Group, we give young people the chance to try new things, make new friends, and build skills for life.

Being an adult volunteer is fun, too, and hugely rewarding. Whether you’d prefer to work with young people or with other adults, there’s something for you.

You can get involved whether you’re here for a few months or a few years. You’ll have great experiences, and make great memories of your time here. And it’s right here on your doorstep.

To find out more, contact: helenwright@kascouts.org.uk

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Padre Robert Church...

For a week just after Easter, St Alban’s Church was transformed into Narnia. The entrance became a wardrobe full of fur coats, naturally. Once inside people were greeted with the site of the iconic lamp and a winter scene of falling snowflakes.

On further exploration we discovered Mr Tumnus’ house, the White Witch in the ice, and Aslan’s mane.

Why did we do all this? It was to allow the children of Watchfield Primary School to have a time thinking about prayer and reflection. The local charity BeSpace provided all the materials, and some wonderful local volunteers came along to support the children.

As the school children of every age came through the wardrobe they were given the opportunity to experience and explore what it means to pray, and to reflect on the big questions of life. Each part of the Narnia story gave a different aspect to think about.

We cut out and hung snowflakes, and saw that each design was unique – but all were beautiful. We wrote the word ‘sorry’ in the snow as we reflected on things we regret or have done wrong. We reflected on the gift of friendship, and thought about how we might support and love our friends better.

It was deeply profound thinking with the children about the injustice in our world, and praying for strength to help make it a better place. They showed such compassion as they pledged their support for people suffering from homelessness, hunger, illness, and pollution.

On a more joyful note, we also had a time to say thank you for all the good things in our lives! I am really glad that as a Defence Academy and St Alban’s Church community we were able to give the children a time out of their usual routine to stop and reflect on the big questions of life. I hope they will go on doing that for the rest of their lives.

We all need to take time to pause, to stop and reflect on the big questions. We should all build the habit of saying sorry when we get it wrong, and to say a grateful thank you for the gifts we receive. Doing those things helps us look at the world around us and spot injustice, big and small. When we do that we can seek to become part of the solution.

For me as a Christian, that process of reflection is underpinned by prayer to the God of love and justice, as I seek to live as God wants me to.

This summer, I hope and pray we will all have time out from life pressures and routines. I also hope the weather will be substantially better than the perpetual winter of Narnia!

May you find time just to ‘be’, that you might reflect on and reconnect with what truly matters.

Multi-Faith Provision at the Defence Academey

The Main Multi Faith Prayer Room is situated in Beckett House, opposite the reception.

A smaller Multi Faith Prayer Room and Chapel can also be found in JSCSC first floor, Block B and is open 24hrs.

Friday Prayers

Take place from 13:00 - 14:00 every Friday at Beckett House, Multi Faith Prayer Room.

For more information, please contact Padre Robert, Station Chaplain

Station Chaplaincy

Life can often be busy, stressful, and full on. Sometimes it can feel like we are on a treadmill, never achieving anything, and exhausting ourselves in the process.

Often life can be busy, stressful, and full on. Sometimes it can feel like we are on a treadmill, never achieving anything, and exhausting ourselves in the process. Taking time for ourselves often slips down our list of priorities.

enough, spend some time getting lost in your own world with LEGO or play a tune on the electric piano or have a go at playing the drums.

If you are looking to find a precious moment of peace, calm, and tranquillity, then come to The Haven.

Our aim is to build a strong and supportive community through kindness and compassion. We support local military families, and all associated with the military. We provide pastoral, spiritual, and religious care, strength and guidance, all regardless of your belief or faith background.

Taking time for ourselves often slips down our list of priorities.

The Haven is located in Building 43, beside the chaplaincy centre. It is a quiet space, where all are welcome to sit and enjoy the best free refreshments in the West. Why not enjoy a book; assemble a jigsaw; or try knitting or adult colouring. If that’s not enough, spend some time getting lost in your own world with LEGO.

If you are looking to find a precious moment of peace, calm, and tranquillity, then come to The Haven.

The Haven is open to all during the working day, and you are welcome to stay for as long as you need.

Station Chaplaincy is always here to lend an ear, 24/7. We can meet for a walk, or chat over a brew.

The Haven is open to all during the working day, and you are welcome to stay for as long as you need.

We are situated in Building 43, car park A, opposite Kitchener Hall

For more info, please contact the Station Chaplaincy Team: Padre Robert Church, 07977479866

Chaplaincy Coordinator, Leigh Hyde, 07920162664, leigh.hyde@da.mod.uk

The Station Chaplaincy Team are delighted to welcome you to the Defence Academy Station Church, St. Alban’s. All are welcome to join us for inclusive worship.

You will always receive a warm welcome.

Roman Catholic Mass

09:30-10:30 every Sunday Priests from Blackfriars conduct Mass for the Defence Academy

Family Friendly Worship 11:00-12:00 every Sunday Services led by Padre Church, Station Padre

Join us for refreshments from 10:30-11:00 in the hall.

Please get in touch to discuss Christening/Baptism requests, marriage blessings/renewals, first communions, and more.

St. Alban’s, Watchfield, Ironside Drive, SN6 8RL

The Haven is located in Building 43, beside the chaplaincy centre. It is a quiet space, where all are welcome to sit and enjoy the best free refreshments in the West. Why not enjoy a book; assemble a jigsaw; or try knitting or adult colouring. If that’s not

For more info, please contact the Station Chaplaincy Team: Chaplaincy Coordinator, Leigh Hyde, 07920162664, leigh. hyde@da.mod.uk

For more info, please contact the Station Chaplaincy Team: Chaplaincy Coordinator, Leigh Hyde, 07920162664, leigh.hyde@da.mod.uk

Wednesday – 0900 – 1130 – St Alban’s Hall

Pitstop

Where woman pause & talk about God

On Wednesday mornings a group of women gather in St Alban’s Church Hall for friendship, prayer, and a chat about faith.

All (including pre-schoolers) regardless of belief are welcome.

Please contact Liesel: 07905 188185 lieselparkinson@afcu.org.uk

Wednesday - 06:45 – 08:00 St Alban’s Hall

Refuel

Bacon + strong coffee + Short video + discussion

We are a bunch of serving men & woman that meet weekly to explore Christian faith.

Everyone is welcome

For more information, contact Rhett Parkinson on 07942 899762

Vale Garage

Vale Garage Service Centre offers MOT testing, repairs, servicing and diagnostics. We do anything from tyres to brakes, batteries and exhausts.

Vale Garage car and van sales is an independent retailer supplying low milage used cars and vans in the local area of Oxforshire, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and Berkshire.

For vehicles outside the manufacturers warranty we offer a fully comprehensive warranty. All vehicles are serviced up to date when sold. Service telephone: 01367 710 777 Sales telephone: 01367 710 100

Forecourt Location: Vale Garage, Faringdon Road, Stanford in the Vale, nr Faringdon, Oxfordshire SN7 8NN. Email: valegarage@hotmail.co.uk Website: www.valegarage.com

My friends are now the lucky owners  of quilts made  by  me    ….yay!

Me? Sewing, using a sewing machine, never thought I would be happily typing that a few months ago but here I am, happy as a sand boy with new and exciting skills under my belt and a  nice little business  as the result of  my fun time with the patchwork  group at Shrivenham.

I learnt so much with this group, patience and being calm,   having faith in myself and feeling ok with “Plan bs”, (plan bs are such useful things I can still hear the teacher saying) and what else was it she used to say….. oh yes,  mistakes are just

part of the learning curve.

My husband bought me a sewing machine that goes so slowly,  how wonderful is that!  A sewing machine that does not race away with your material, Bliss.  Our baby now has her own quilt, made by me and I am thrilled to be able to say that.    So glad I joined The Academy Quilters,  they turned out to be the gift that just keeps on giving as the teacher still helps me even though I have now moved back home on the other side of the world.    Thank you Hedda, you are my soul saver.

Does my

machine do Blanket stitch? Oh…why didn’t I know that before?

While at Shrivenham for a short 4-month course……… I joined The Academy Quilters for 4 months of wonderfully supportive learning sessions.  Me and my  “long, not used, stayed in its  box” sewing machine started to make friends as the quilters say.  I had the most fabulous time, being encouraged to experiment, being guided through various procedures, and achieving things. I thought I would never be able to do or even to enjoy doing.

When I was 25 my parents bought me a good sewing machine. Yes,  it is a good one,  although I really did not appreciate that fact at the time, just said thank you and got on with my life.  They must have thought me a bit ungrateful and for that I ask their forgiveness.  I now appreciate their well thought out and researched gift and will go on to have heaps more soul restoring, creative time with it.

For me,  because I move around the world a lot,   another bonus of the time with The Academy Quilters, it that now…. I move with a skill and the means

to make friends so much easier…….and quilts!

That would not have been possible without my oh so patient tutor, who guided me quietly through all the stages and was always there to answer my “message”  questions, even late night, and early morning times.  For me, that was a blessing,  studying  during the day then knowing I could tap into her skills “out of hours” meant my time at Shrivenham was beneficial for my academic targets , for my relaxing and chilling out abilities and hugely beneficial for my well-being.

My parents are now so proud of me and are thrilled I can use their special gift. They have the quilts to prove it and I have more friends all around the world than I ever thought possible.

Heartfelt thanks to The Academy Quilters, from both my parents and especially from me…… you are my ongoing “bonus”  of having been at Shrivenham, England.

Wonderful fall colours and happy holiday memories, recorded here with the use of lovely batik fabrics. A new, most enjoyable learning curve.

Rebecca’s first creation for a very lucky baby.

Left:

A very busy few weeks has resulted in so many good things for  The Academy Quilters but as usual, some sad things too……life seems to work like that.

Let’s look at our good things…… being together, for support,  cups of tea, travelling along learning curves, achieving our targets, sharing each others ‘tah dah’ moments, finding each of us can do far more that we initially gave ourselves credit for, being able to gift our creations to family and friends and finding we can record some of our memories on our quilts ……that is just a few of the many good things we all experience as a creative group.

Like life, there will always be the sad things, losing family members  or a much loved pet but learning to cope through creating a quilt, missing homeland but being able to gain comfort from the group and of course, lastly but just as important, having to say “goodbye” to group members as they relocate to places all over the world.

Saying goodbye is never easy and recently we have had to do

just that to our lovely Annika. We were lucky  enough to enjoy her wonderful company for several years. She worked hard to create the most amazing memory quilt, was the instigator of many a giggle and laugh and always made time to listen and support us all. She “flies the nest” with our love and good luck wishes.

Another member to relocate was our delightful Rebecca who managed, in the short time she was with us, while looking after her family and holding down a job……started and completed a special quilt that is destined to wrap a new family member in love. Never having done patchwork before, Rebecca’s learning curve was steep but she succeeded and now moves into new pastures with her target met and new skills at her finger tips.

Congratulations to both members, it has been a pleasure to have you both with us.

Combining a love of much missed chickens and the love of bright and happy fabrics. Sooooo much fun, might do another one.

Annika’s amazing memory quilt. Created over several years, full of her UK memories.

Learning to draw with the sewing machine while discovering the fun of encapsulation.

Finding blanket stitch appliqué done on the sewing machine, was far easier and so enjoyable. Planning to do lots more.

Left: Textile record of Welsh homeland and much treasured Welsh love spoon.

LGBTQ+ Defence Awards nominations now open

Nominations for the LGBTQ+ Awards, 2024 are now open

Launched last year to accelerate LGBTQ+ inclusivity in the UK’s Armed Forces and wider defence, aerospace, and security industry, the Awards were formed in the wake of the Prime Minister’s formal state apology to the LGBTQ+ community for the so called ‘gay ban’ in the Armed Forces which endured until 2000.

The Awards are aimed to highlight and promote the power of inclusion, while celebrating the talents, achievements, and contributions to Defence by the LGBTQ+ community.

To nominate LGBTQ+ colleagues or allies, visit thelgbtawards.com (www). The nominating process is both free, and easy to do, with full guidelines and criteria available to help with the process.

Nominations close on 28 June 2024.

Last year, Neil Reeves, Digital and Information Manager at the Defence College for Military Capability Integration (DCMCI) was a finalist:

“I was invited to attend the inaugural LGBTQ+ Defence Awards last October as I had been shortlisted in the Innovator of the Year category. The nomination process

had been simple, in my case I had decided to self-nominate, so I wrote a bit about why I deserved the award and threw in a testimony from a colleague for good measure!

The event took place in the Grand Connaught Rooms in Covent Garden, hosted by newsreader Jane Hill. Attending with my husband, we were treated to a lavish three course meal (with plenty of wine!) and the chance to hear from several guest speakers including double Olympic gold medallist, Dame Kelly Holmes.

To be surrounded by these members of the LGBTQ+ community to celebrate what we had given to Defence, was a real blessing. The pride in working for Defence and the comraderies between everyone was a joy to witness. If you are on the fence about going for an award, I advise you to go for it, what do you have to lose!?”

Lady Grover’s Fund ‘The Military’s Best Kept Secret’

A recent visitor to the Defence Academy has been Lee Holloway, Chief Executive of Lady Grover’s Fund (LGF) to meet and present to the UK ACSC 27 cohort.

LGF is a Friendly Society, supporting serving and former military officers and their families. Founded in 1911 by Lady Grover, the Fund helped families of British Officers serving in India by providing financial support to help cover health costs. Today, LGF continues to provide support to serving and former officers and their families, across the services, with much needed financial assistance to help towards the cost of unexpected illness or injury.

Annual subscriptions start from £55 per year for financial grants of up to £8000 per annum, to help cover some of the costs of recovery and recuperation due to unexpected illness or injury. LGF has a dedicated team who serve and support its members through the application process, and changes at the start of 2024 have opened the benefits to single officers joining the Fund too.

Jennie Sharrocks, PA Team Leader at the Defence Academy, knows first-hand the importance of the support the Fund can offer:

“Following surgery in 2016,

while our family lived at RAF Marham I called upon Lady Grover’s Fund.

They were able to cover the cost of a wonderful helper to assist with household chores when I wasn’t allowed to lift more than a kettle with enough water for one! Having a husband with a busy job who was often away, and two young boys (aged nine and six at the time), I really did need help in the home for several months post-surgery. I would highly recommend Lady Grover’s Fund as the support they are able to offer was wonderful.”

The Snooty Mehmaan delivers the best in asian cuisine combined with a great venue with boutique hotel rooms, an award-winning restaurant, and a function room to host large events such as weddings, conferences, birthdays, etc.

Serving breakfast, lunch & dinner

With an emphasis on refined yet creative pan-asian cuisine, the menu incorporates both traditional classic favourites and original new dishes that apply classic flavours with a modern twist.

Located outside littleworth village on the A420 near Faringdon, Oxfordshire and surrounded by the picturesque oxfordshire countryside. The restaurant itself holds many of the original buildings strong architectural features including original oak beams and flooring give the snooty mehmaan its strong and natural environment that amplifies both the mood and the creative food on offer.

Boarding School?

Anderson

UK Boarding School Exhibitions and Information Days

Tidworth Garrison – 18th September 2024

Aldershot Garrison – March 2025

Catterick Garrison – May 2025

We have been working with Forces & FCDO families for over 25 years. Our education service is FREE, unique and personal to each child and their family.

LANGUAGE CENTRE FOR ALL

COME AND FIND OUT ABOUT CLASSES STARTING 9th SEPTEMBER 2024

Is learning a new language on your wishlist? If so, come and check out your local Language Centre. open to all. We offer English as a second language or French, Spanish, Italian, German. As if you need any other incentive, learning a new language is proven to keep your brain active and sharp!

ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE

If you know anyone struggling with the English language – au pairs, overseas visitors for example – please contact us. Lessons are fun and sociable and, in addition to improving language skills, it is a great place to make new friends and find out about other countries and their cultures. Students can elect to sit graded examinations in English from the Cambridge Examination board on completion of their courses, and we run exam preparation lessons, but there is no pressure to do so.

Groups and private lessons

Both group and private lessons are available to suit all abilities, from beginner through to advanced. There is also the opportunity to be tutored in your own home.

Increase confidence

Everyone who attends lessons regularly can expect to become more confident and fluent in the language, improve listening skills and make considerable progress in their understanding of grammar.

Classes for Children

Specially tailored classes for children are available in your own home.

1pm -

COME AND MEET OUR TEACHERS AND LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR CLASSES

OPEN TO EVERYONE

ENGLISH CLASSES ALL LEVELS Weekdays 9.30am – 11.30am

FOREIGN LANGUAGE EVENING CLASSES All levels Monday – Thursday

FRENCH SPANISH ITALIAN GERMAN

Email: languagecentre7@gmail.com www.shrivenhamlanguagecentre.co.uk

The Language Centre is open during the day for English classes and in the evening for foreign language tuition.

Find us at:

7 Axis Road, opposite St Alban’s Church. For more information, call us on: 01793 784881 or email: languagecentre7@gmail.com

Bespoke 1:1 Tuition

We offer students 1:1 English and Foreign Language tuition with the option to be taught in the privacy of your own home.

Email us on languagecentre7@gmail.com or drop in and speak to us about how we can help you.

ACTIVE SOCIAL PROGRAMME

ENHANCES LANGUAGE SKILLS

We have been busy enjoying ourselves and, at the same time, improving the language skills of students. Our active social programme includes craft and baking sessions as well as outings. This helps to develop a varied vocabulary as well as learning about different cultures.

Community Services

Maj Anthony Bolton 01793 785786 Shrivenham Station Welfare Officer

WO1 Mick Mayes 01793 314791 Station Welfare Warrant Officer

Ms Donna Gardner 01793 780793 Families and Welfare Coordinator

Military Provost Guard Service 01793 785612(MPGS) 785617

Jayne Russell 07971 894575

Community Development Jayne.Russell133@mod.gov.uk Worker

Padre Robert Church 01793 314161/ Mobile 07977 479866 Email: Robert.church@da.mod.uk

Leigh Hyde, 01793 314033 /mobile: 07920162664

Chaplaincy Coordinator leigh.hyde@da.mod.uk

Medical Services

Shrivenham Station Medical Centre

01793 785552

Shrivenham Station Dental Centre 01793 785223

Elm Tree Surgery, Shrivenham Village 01793 782207

Fernhill Practice, Faringdon 01367 242407

White Horse Practice, Faringdon 01367 242388

Westrop Surgery, Highworth 01793 762218

Great Western Hospital, Swindon 01793 604020

John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford 01865 741166

Highworth Dental Surgery 01793 762231

Faringdon Dental Surgery 01367 240514

Graham Jones Pharmacy 01793 783336

Vets

Drove Veterinary Hospital 01793 522483

Clubs & Organisations

DAFFYS

dadaffys@gmail.com

Shrivenham Station Saddle Club 01793 785489 www.shrivenhamsaddleclub.co.uk

Scouts

cn@wands.org.uk www.kascouts.org.uk/wands

Defence Academy Golf Club 01793 785725

Girlguiding Tuckmill ( Watchfield & Shrivenham) (Rainbows, Brownies, Guides,Rangers, Volunteering) contact: jahollick1@gmail.com

Defence Academy Military Wives Choir defenceacademy@militarywiveschoirs.org

Academy Quilters 01793 762278

Local Services

Shrivenham Village Post Office 01793 782260

Watchfield Village Hall 01793 782234 or 783157

Education

Shrivenham Station Language Centre 01793 784881

Alfresco Child Care 01793 790263

The Barn Kindergarten 01793 782182

Old Station Nursery 01367 243800

Watchfield Primary School 01793 782623

Shrivenham CE Primary School 01793 782406

Longcot & Fernham Primary School 01793 782381

Shellingford Primary School 01367 710301

Faringdon Community College 01367 240375

Cranfield University Switchboard 01793 785810

Miscellaneous

Main Gate Reception 01793 788270

JSCSC Reception (Main Foyer) 01793 788000