Thursday 31 October 2024

Our usual round-up of local news includes a fair, a parade, bonfires, cattle, Lego, a competition and Alabama Rot – plus great funding news for the Wetlands project, the Croft Hall and Kintbury’s playground, next week’s Hungerford newsletter and path disagreements. See also below for community notices and news from your local council.

Upcoming Hungerford events include Christmas Fair & Firework Night. See below for details, plus regular events and group activities. 

• Hungerford’s wetlands

The Town and Manor of Hungerford has recently received a £100,000 grant for the Kennet Valley Wetland Reserve through West Berkshire Council’s latest round of CIL fund bids. This will be used for the “initial infrastructure element of a project to create 40-acre wetland nature reserve”.

The Town and Manor of Hungerford said that it was “delighted” at the grant. “This is a fantastic start to our fundraising for this wonderful project. It is a major contribution to the cost of the infrastructure needed to provide public access to the wetland – a new road access from Charnham Park road, a bridge and a small car park.

“This is an ambitious project to establish a 40-acre wetland reserve on the floodplain of the River Kennet to the north of the town. Formerly water meadows and then Grade 4 agricultural land, the site will be restored to a wonderful mosaic of wetland habitats benefiting wildlife, climate change and helping to mitigate flood risk in the Kennet Valley.

“Most excitingly, the wetland reserve will be open to the public all year round and with no entry fee. The Town and Manor plans to work with ARK (Action for the River Kennet) to provide educational activities on the reserve. Thank you, West Berkshire, for allocating this substantial grant, providing us with 45% of the cost for the initial wetland access infrastructure. This is such a positive start to our fundraising campaign.”

More information on this project can be found here. More information on all the other successful bids from this funding round can be found here.

• The Croft Hall

There’s a very similar story here, also from Hungerford.

“The Croft Hall Charitable Trust is delighted to have received a major contribution of £67,477 from West Berkshire Council (WBC) towards Phase 1 of its Renovation and Improvement Programme,” Trustee Tony Drewer-Trump told Penny Post. “The works are needed to renew aged floors and the dated kitchen, without which the continued use of the building by the numerous and wide variety of groups and residents would be at risk. Together with the £30,000 matched funding already kindly pledged by the Greenham Trust, WBC’s grant moves us closer to the required Phase 1 total of £138,000.

“The recognition by WBC of the value of the hall to Hungerford and its surrounding area, and the diverse range of activities it supports, will also be important in assisting us with our future fundraising activities. We still urgently need to raise the remaining £38,000 to be able to complete Phase 1, and we are currently seeking further individual and larger donors to achieve this.”

More details about the project can be found here. Donations via the Good Exchange website would be very much appreciated.

• Kintbury’s playground

And yet another award from the CIL fund for the area: this time for Kintbury, where the Parish Council has been awarded £65,000 of the £100,000 that’s needed for a refurbishment of the playground.

Kintbury Parish Council, acting as Trustee of the Gladstone Memorial Recreation Ground, is undertaking a refurbishment and improvement to the children’s playground in the village, and reported: “As well as replacing some old equipment we are excited to be installing some accessible equipment and improvements to the ground surfaces.”

“We have been incredibly lucky to secure a grant of £65,000 from the West Berkshire Council CIL fund,” a spokesperson for the Parish Council told Penny Post. “The Parish Council is very grateful to those who have already donated to the project. We have opened a fundraising page on the Good Exchange (link below). If you would like to make a donation towards this exciting project for the local community, please click here.”

More information on this and all the other successful bids from this funding round can be found here.

• Penny Post Hungerford

The October edition of Penny Post Hungerford will be published on Tuesday 5 November and will as ever provide the best round-up of what’s going on in the town. If there’s anything you want to contribute to this, please email penny@pennypost.org.uk as soon as possible.

The timing of this newsletter is determined by the meetings of Hungerford Town Council, which normally take place on the first working Monday of the month. Coverage of the meeting, and the other matters with which the Town Council is concerned, are always the main stories in Penny Post Hungerford. Members of the public are welcome to attend the meetings (except for any Part 2 at the end of which confidential or commercially sensitive matters are discussed). Details of the meeting on Monday 7 October including the agenda can be found here.

• Different paths

This article in the Daily Express reports how Pippa Middleton and her husband are “embroiled in a bitter dispute with local villagers [in Kintbury] after the couple erected ‘No Trespassing’ signs over a footpath used by the public. The pair’s West Berkshire estate has a footpath leading up to their driveway that residents have been able to use for years.” This was, it seems, with the tacit (though perhaps not written, which might make a difference) permission of the previous owner, Terence Conran.

Such disputes can be highly emotive. Many will remember the antics of Nicholas van Hoogstraten in Sussex, who waged a long and bitter battle with the Ramblers’ Association over a right of way issue. Legal actions, razor wire and military-style concrete bollards were all features of his campaign against opponents whom he described in terms so opprobrious that it seems better not to quote them in case you’re reading this before the 9pm watershed: and perhaps not even then.

Not, we must stress, that things have got anywhere close to that point in Kintbury and it’s very much hoped that they won’t. Eugene Futcher of the West Berkshire Ramblers told Penny Post on 31 October: “Mill Lane has been used by walkers for a very long time and far longer than the 20 years required by law to support a claim to have the access declared a public right of way, a claim I submitted on the 20 January 2023.”

West Berkshire Council then made an order that Mill Lane should be added to the definitive map as a public right of way, a decision “based on the large volume of witness statements supplied”. It seems, however, that the landowner has not accepted the order and has raised objections, as they’re entitled to do. West Berkshire Council must now submit the order to the Planning Inspectorate in order to reach a decision.

Eugene Futcher added: “I’m informed that the Planning Inspectorate is likely to commence work by mid-2025 and might be expected to reach a decision by the end of next year.” Nothing happens very quickly with planning process, and matters concerning rights of way take longer than most.

In the meantime, WBC’s decision would appear to stand, but it remains to be seen what the reaction of the landowners will be. Hopefully both sides can show restraint until the matter is finally resolved.

• Other news

The popular Hungerford Christmas Fair returns to the Town Hall on Friday 1 and Saturday 2 November. Entrance costs £3 in aid of Motor Neurone Disease Association (Reading and West Berkshire Branch) who also will receive the raffle proceeds. There will be many new stallholders and 10% of all sales will be given to Amref Health Africa, the charity supported by Kathini Graham, who started and ran this fair for over 25 years. See here for more details.

John O’Gaunt School PSA invites everyone to its Firework Night at John O’Gaunt School on Friday 1 November with bonfire, bar and refreshments. See here for all details and where to get tickets.

• Quick reminder how to stay safe this Halloween and bonfire season with important reminders from the Royal Berkshire Fire Service and the Environment Agency about fireworks and bonfire safety for people and animals, including the fines you can receive if you burn polluting household waste (you should only burn dry, untreated wood).

Hungerford Town Council invites all veterans and current members of the armed forces to participate in this year’s Hungerford Remembrance Parade on Sunday 10 November, meeting outside The Town Hall at 10.30am. A time to reflect and honour the bravery and contribution of all military and civilian servicemen and women.

.• This week saw the cattle on the common leaving until next year. This year has not been the easiest for the herd, with two animals sadly dying as a result of injuries. Philip Porter rounded the herd up safely and we look forward to their return in 2025. In the meantime Town & Manor of Hungerford is asking folk to drive particularly carefully as the nights draw in, to avoid hitting deer, badgers, foxes and other wild animals.

• Congratulations to Hungerford’s mixed Walking Football team which entered its first competition in Bracknell last week. Two draws and two narrow defeats was a fair outcome for its first competitive outing, but it is always keen for new players to join. If you’d like to give it a try, men’s sessions are on Monday evenings from 7pm to 8pm and women on Wednesdays at the same time, both on the 3G pitch at John O’Gaunt School. For more information contact Martin.brailli@btinternet.com.

• Mindful of the autumnal leaf fall, combined with an excess of rainfall and mild temperatures, The Kennel Club UK is advising dog owners about the fatal disease Alabama Rot. Little is known about the disease, as yet, although its effects are being felt countrywide. Its advice is to take preventative measures such as avoiding extra muddy walking routes and to wash and dry your dogs’ paws thoroughly after countryside rambles. Lethargy, vomiting, lack of appetite and sores and ulcers on the skin are the signs to be aware of, necessitating a speedy trip to the vet.

West Berkshire Warriors U14s and U12s girls are playing Windsor this weekend at Hungerford Rugby Club. Go along and support them at Hungerford RFC especially if you have any budding players who fancy getting into women’s rugby.

• Check out Lego Club at Hungerford Library for children over 5 years this Saturday 2 November from 10.30am to 12pm. Drop in to have fun with Lego. This is a free event, with all materials  provided, but the Lego is not to take away. Parents/carers need to stay with children under 8. For more information, phone the library on 01488 682660.

See here for our guide to October half term fun, including Hungerford Tesco’s Halloween Colouring Competition for age groups 3-5 years, 6-8 years and 9-11 years. Pick up a colouring sheet in store, hand it back by Monday 4 November to be in with a chance of winning a prize.

• The first Tuesday of each month, St Lawrence’s Church serves soup and a buffet in the new west wing of the church, and  welcomes anyone – young, old or in the middle – who would otherwise be having lunch on their own. Their Guy Fawkes lunch on Tuesday 5 November at 12.15 pm will nod to the day, with some indoor sparklers and other bits of fun. See here for more details.

You can still take your surplus garden apples to My Apple Juice at Hungerford Park to be pressed into your own delicious apple juice with a bespoke label. See here for all the details. A shocking 90% of garden apples go to waste every year while 60% of the apples we eat and drink in the UK are imported.

• Quick reminder that Open School Sessions at Hungerford Primary School run until Tuesday 12 November. If you can’t make any of the dates, contact the office on 01488 682230 to make alternative arrangements. It’s a good opportunity to meet the new headteacher, Lucy Smith.

West Berkshire Health & Wellbeing encourages and reminds everyone that as winter approaches it is time to check your eligibility for flu and COVID-19 vaccines. Book now here.

• Reminder to heed Forestry England‘s request not to leave spent pumpkins in forests or woodlands regardless of well-meaning social media posts encouraging people to leave them for wildlife to eat. Pumpkins are not natural to woodlands and can make some animals, including hedgehogs, very poorly. Decomposing food waste can also attract pests and spread disease.

West Berkshire Council is inviting residents to nominate individuals and groups for The Community Champion Awards 2024. All nominations will be judged by an independent panel and the winners will be presented with their award at a ceremony to be held in February 2025. Say a big thank you to those who have contributed to your community by nominating online here. The closing date is 11 November. Paper nomination forms can be obtained by calling 01635 503973.

• If you are looking for that perfect wedding venue, Town & Manor of Hungerford suggests you take a look at the historic Hungerford Town Hall as a potential choice with plenty of character. With three separate rooms you can use, there’s a full kitchen, toilets and the use of staging, speakers and sound equipment. Call 01488 686555 to discuss your requirements.

• Have your say

Have your say on current consultations being run by West Berkshire Council:

Extension to Newbury Town Centre pedestrianisation hours – deadline 5 November 2024.
Draft Waste Management Strategy 2025-2032 – deadline 6 November 2024.
Draft Carers Strategy 2024 – 27 – deadline 17 November 2024.

Parish and town councils also run consultations from time to time: see the appropriate website/s below under Council contacts.

• Latest local newsletters

Community notices

Have your say on current consultations by West Berkshire Council and Wiltshire Council. Parish and town councils also run consultations from time to time: see the appropriate website/s below under Council contacts.

Latest news on the train service between Bedwyn and Newbury from Bedwyn Train Passenger Group, which constantly campaigns for improvements.

• Hungerford Nursery School is regularly fundraising. Please click here for how to support it.

Croft Field Activity Centre is open for bookings, be it for a dance, a party or a wedding. Click here for details.

Please don’t litter on the common – it is dangerous not only to the cows, but also to dogs and other wildlife. Thanks from Town & Manor of Hungerford.

Party box hire (to reduce single use plastic) from Hungerford Food Community at a cost of £10. Please email hungerfordfoodcommunity@gmail.com to book.

Swift Town Hungerford is encouraging residents to provide nesting places for swifts. For advice please contact Swift Town Hungerford or HEAT (Hungerford Environmental Action Team).

• Hungerford Library welcomes volunteers. Contact cultureandlibrariesvolunteers@westberks.gov.uk or call 01635 519 533.

• Hungerford Hub & Library asks if you shop online, please sign up to its Give As You Live page. It doesn’t cost you a penny but raises money for them.

• Kintbury Jubilee Centre is home to a wide range of clubs and activities. Follow its facebook page for latest news.

Neighbourhood Watch in Shalbourne: for more information, please email Kelly Elliott on kellys2678@sky.com.

Lunch for seniors and vulnerable adults can be booked at Redwood House at ldavies@fairclosecentre.org or 01635 40488.

Home-Start West Berkshire needs volunteers to help families in need. Full training provided. For more information visit home-startwestberks.org.uk, call 01635 760 310 or email office@home-startwb.org.uk.

West Berks Foodbank’s collection point is open every Wednesday 1pm to 3pm in the Methodist Church Hall, or call 0808 208 2138 (Mon to Fri 9am to 5pm except bank holidays).

Hungerford Youth Club is looking for volunteers. Please contact youth@hungerfordyc.org.uk.

Dog-walking services for elderly or seriously ill residents are provided by the Cinnamon Trust charity on 01736 757 900.

Hungerford Fire Station welcomes new on-call firefighters (a paid position).

Inkpen Village Hall offers a wide range of activities. See details here.


Local events and activities

For more information on events and activities across the Penny Post area, see the website calendar.

• Dates for the diary

• Click here for upcoming Hungerford Bookshop events and author talks.

Fri 1 Nov Firework Night, John O’Gaunt School.

• Fri 1 Nov Saga Louts, Hungerford RBL Club.

• Fri 1 Nov Hungerford Christmas Fair, Town Hall

• Sat 2 Nov Hungerford Christmas Fair, Town Hall

• Sat 2 Nov St Lawrence’s Lunch, St Lawrence’s Church.

• Sat 2 Nov Dung Beatles Concert, The Croft Hall.

• Sun 3 Nov Bingo, Terrace View Café, Herongate.

• Tue 5 Nov St Lawrence’s Monthly Lunch, St Lawrence’s Church.

• Sat 9 Nov The Korgis & Joe Matera, The Croft Hall.

• Fri 15 Nov Rotary Club Bridge Afternoon, The Croft Hall.

Sat 23 Nov Second Hand Toy Sale, Hungerford Methodist Church.

Sat 23 Nov Christmas Fayre, Hungerford Hub

• Fri 29 Nov Alistair Barrie Comedian, Croft Hall.

• Sat 7 Dec Christmas Craft Fare, Hungerford Care Home.

• Fri 13 Dec Hungerford Victorian Extravaganza.

• Regular Events

• Craft & Chat mornings at Hungerford Library, every Friday from 10am to 12noon.

Wellbeing Sessions at Hungerford Library every Wed, 1pm to 1.30pm. Book with kate.wiggins@getberkshireactive.org or ring 07706 357801.

Hungerford Sew & Sews group for aspiring dressmakers or crafters on Monday evenings at The Croft Hall. Other crafts welcome. Find out more here.

Women’s Walking football Weds 7-8pm on the artificial pitch behind John O’Gaunt School. You need to have Astro boots or football boots. The first session is free. Men train most Mondays from 7-8pm. See more here.

• Hungerford Historical Association hosts fascinating monthly talks, non-members are welcome.

Hungerford Jazz Forum welcomes new musicians on the last Friday of the month at the British Legion. It now showcases local bands and performers by offering a 30-minute set around 9pm. Please see more details on its facebook page here.

Mixed ability non-contact rugby for 10 to 17 year olds at Hungerford Rugby Club. Those with (or without) learning disabilities are encouraged to come along, as the coaches are experienced working with those with special needs. Monthly, all year round, on Sunday mornings from 10.30am to 11.30am. For more details please contact hungerfordtigers@gmail.com, or call 07850 517332.

Wednesday coffee mornings at the United Reformed Church 10am to 12pm in the Memorial Room (through the blue gates). Free entry. All welcome.

Hungerford Memory Singers dementia choir offers monthly singing for those living with dementia and their carers at the Hungerford British Legion.

•  20 minute dementia-friendly service at Hungerford Methodist Church every second Thur/month. Accessible to all. Call Karen on 07444 851606 for further enquiries.

Chronic Pain Recovery Support Group 5pm to 6.30pm second Tue/month at Hungerford Surgery. Contact Maria on maplecoachingltd@gmail.com or 07761 987015.

Writing Club at Froxfield Village Hall. Whether you want a quiet place to write, would like a chat with other writers, or are looking for ideas please email dunwriters@gmail.com for details. All welcome.

• Sunday CommuniTEA, family films, coffee mornings at the Methodist Church Hall on Bridge Street, plus Church @ Costa. See details here.

Weekly club runs with Hungerford Hares.

• Hungerford Youth Club runs sessions during the week for different age groups, young carers and home education children. More information here. Volunteers always welcome.

• Hungerford weekly market every Wednesday on the High Street from 8am to about 2pm, plus indoor market in the Town Hall from 9am to 3pm with lots of antique, bric-a-brac and craft stalls. Free entry. See more here.

• The Crafty Girls every first Wednesday of the month from 7pm to 9pm in the Hungerford Hub. This sociable group supplements chat with a bit of craft.

• Hungerford Library runs regular events for people of all ages. See here for details or contact the library on 01488 682660 or hungerfordlibrary@westberks.gov.uk.

• Kintbury Bridge Club meets Thursday afternoons in the Coronation Hall for relaxed, social bridge for all abilities. £2 per week. Contact Chris Doyle on 07738 756181 or kintburybridgeclub@gmail.com.


News from your local council

Note: “the most recent meeting” refers to the most recent one for which minutes (in some cases draft) or some other summary is available. Other meetings may have taken place since. Some councils publish minutes more promptly than do others. If the link is scored through this may be because draft minutes have been replaced by approved ones and the drafts file deleted. If so, please follow the links provided to the council’s website.

• Information on Hungerford Town Council can be found here. Penny Post’s most recent summary of Hungerford Town Council’s work (including notes from the meeting of 7 October 2024) can be seen here.

• The most recent meeting of Shalbourne Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 26 September and you can download the minutes here. Items covered included: speeding; a possible use for the former Shalbourne School; repairs and maintenance; planning matters; rights of way; financial matters; and the Shalbourne Club.
To see the dates, agenda and minutes for future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here.

• The most recent meeting of Chilton Foliat Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 10 September and you can read the minutes here. Items covered included: planning matters; highways and footpaths; the Parish Steward; wildlife; the Recreation Ground; financial matters; Thames Water; and forthcoming events.
To see the dates and agendas for future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here. To see the minutes, please click here

• The most recent meeting of Kintbury Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 5 September and you can read the minutes here.
To see the dates of future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here. To see the agendas, please click here. To see the minutes, please click here.

• The most recent meeting of Froxfield Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 15 July and you can read the minutes here.
To see the dates, agendas and minutes for future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here. To see the minutes, please click here.

• The most recent meeting of Inkpen Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 13 May and you can read the minutes here.
To see the dates, agendas and minutes for future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here.

• Hungerford area council contacts

• Parishes: Hungerford Town CouncilKintbury Parish CouncilShalbourne Parish CouncilHam Parish Council, Chilton Foliat Parish CouncilFroxfield Parish Council and Inkpen Parish Council.
• West Berkshire Council: click here to visit the website.
• Wiltshire Council: click here to visit the website.


News from other areas

• Penny Post area: see the following separate sections: Lambourn ValleyNewbury area; Thatcham area; Compton and Downlands; Burghfield area; Wantage area; Marlborough area.
• News and views from across the area and beyond: see the most recent Weekly News with Brian column.

Thursday 24 October 2024

Our usual round-up of local news includes volunteers, freedom, fun, fireworks, tests and vines – plus a look at a long-awaited extension to Hungerford Leisure Centre and a warning about a nasty scam doing the rounds. See also below for community notices and news from your local council.

Upcoming Hungerford events include Kintbury Players’ The Haunting of Dr Beeching & Halloween Parties. See below for details, plus regular events and group activities. 

• Hungerford’s extension

I use the pool at the excellent Hungerford Leisure Centre several times a week and have long been struck by a totally unused outside area at the back. This can be described as a bite-shaped gap between the swimming pool and the buildings of John O’Gaunt School next door. The aim has long been to fill this in and so extend the area that can be used for indoor exercise classes. It came tantalisingly close to fruition a year or so ago and then was paused at the last minute. Finally, this week, an announcement was made with an imminent start date.

“West Berkshire Council’s investment will see the design and construction of a modular building to create space for a state-of-the-art studio that will benefit the local community for years to come,” a joint statement from the council and its leisure partner, Everyone Active, confirmed on 21 October.

“The new studio will allow the leisure centre, which is run by Everyone Active in partnership with West Berkshire Council, to expand its fitness offering and increase the number of group exercise classes. It will boast a top-of-the-range sound system and LED lighting. Residents of all ages and abilities will be able to enjoy the variety of classes that will be available in the brand-new studio, such as HIIT, yoga and pilates, as well as the popular Les Mills fitness series.”

Spokespersons for both Everyone Active and WBC expressed their “delight and excitement” at the announcement.

Building work is set to start in early November and shoud be complete by mid December. The “modular” construction method referred to above means that the structure will come partly pre-fabricated in three or four large chunks and be lifted in place by cranes. That should provide an interesting photo opportunity, assuming one can get close enough.

I understand that the works will proceed with “minimal disruption throughout the construction process” but it seems certain that the Centre will be closed for at least one day for the above-mentioned crane to do its stuff. As to when this day will be, that is not yet known but the Leisure Centre’s website (and Penny Post) will be sharing this information when available.

• Scourge of our time

A few years ago, Penny fell for a scam resulting from a friend’s facebook messenger account being hacked. A dear friend has just done the same. They both were scam-aware but, at that very moment, were also distracted. Try to remember that if someone you know contacts you digitally, however plausible their request, first ask them a question only they would know the answer to. Or just give them a call. These days, banks are good at reminding you about scams before you make a BACS transfer: now scammers are asking for gift vouchers to be bought on platforms like Amazon because they don’t have such warnings.

This year’s Scams Awareness Week campaign run by the Public Protection Partnership and Citizens Advice focuses on investment and financial planning scams. At a time when many people are in debt or concerned about the cost of living, investment opportunities that offer large profits can seem irrestistable and fraudsters are using high-pressure sales techniques to get vulnerable consumers to invest in their schemes.

If the deal seems too good to be true it usually is. If someone you don’t know contacts you unexpectedly, encourages you to pay quickly or share personal information, they are a scammer. Likewise if someone calls saying they are from your bank and are asking for any kind of information, even if they know a lot about your account, just hang up. They have probably hacked into your account but just need your code to withdraw funds from it. Call the bank back on a number you trust.

On top of the financial loss, victims often feel shame and embarrassment. But that’s what the fraudsters rely on so you don’t report the crime. Remember they are the guilty party, not you.

• Other news

• Kintbury Players present The Haunting of Dr Beeching at the Coronation Hall from Friday 24 to Sunday 26 October. It’s 1952 and Dr Beeching is a young, rising star at ICI when he finds himself stranded at a lonely railway station with an interesting set of fellow travellers… including a medium! Will she predict the role he will go on to play in the railway system, and what will she foresee for the other characters? Book your tickets here.

Hungerford Youth and Community Centre is looking for volunteers to keep their popular Monday sessions for Years 7 & 8 going. If you are able to give up some time, even once every half term, it will ensure they can keep this fabulous resource going.

See here for our guide to October half term fun, including Hungerford Tesco’s Halloween Colouring Competition for age groups 3-5 years, 6-8 years and 9-11 years. Pick up a colouring sheet in store, hand it back by Monday 4 November to be in with a chance of winning a prize.

• Quick reminder about free safety testing of electric blankets and portable heaters at Hungerford Fire Station on Monday 28 October 2024, dates are also available in Newbury and Thatcham. Full details here.

Hungerford Town Council currently has a vacancy for a Town Councillor, a role which can be filled by co-option (ie no election needed). More information on the procedure for doing this and the likely commitment in terms of meetings and other matters can be found by clicking here.

• A local wine-grower has recently published a book describing the trials and triumphs involved in starting up and then running a vineyard. All is revealed in Christopher Cooke’s  Ancient Land, Pastures New, more information on which you can find here.

You can still take your surplus garden apples to My Apple Juice at Hungerford Park to be pressed into your own delicious apple juice with a bespoke label. See here for all the details. A shocking 90% of garden apples go to waste every year while 60% of the apples we eat and drink in the UK are imported.

The popular Hungerford Christmas Fair returns to the Town Hall on Friday 1 and Saturday 2 November. Entrance costs £3 in aid of Motor Neurone Disease Association (Reading and West Berkshire Branch) who also will receive the raffle proceeds. There will be many new stallholders and 10% off all sales will be given to Amref Health Africa, the charity supported by Kathini Graham who started and ran this fair for over 25 years. See here for more details.

John O’Gaunt School PSA invites everyone to their Firework Night on Friday 1 November with bonfire, bar and refreshments. See here for all details and where to get tickets.

• Quick reminder that Open School Sessions at Hungerford Primary School run until Tuesday 12 November. If you can’t make any of the dates, contact the office on 01488 682230 to make alternative arrangements. It’s a good opportunity to meet the new headteacher, Lucy Smith.

• Congratulations again to this year’s well-deserved Freedom of the Town awardees namely Barbara Barr, Tim and Sandie Crouter, and Susan Mayes. You can read their citations here, presented by Deputy Lieutenant for Berkshire, Willie Hartley Russell and The Mayor of Hungerford, Helen Simpson on Sunday 6 October 2024 in Hungerford Town Hall.

• The first Tuesday of each month, St Lawrence’s Church serves soup and a buffet in the new west wing of the church, and  welcomes anyone – young, old or in the middle – who would otherwise be having lunch on their own. Their Guy Fawkes lunch on Tuesday 5 November at 12.15 pm will nod to the day, with some indoor sparklers and other bits of fun. See here for more details.

West Berkshire Health & Wellbeing encourage and remind everyone, that as winter approaches it is time to check your eligibility for flu and COVID-19 vaccines. Book now here.

• As millions of pumpkins hit supermarket shelves and make their way to homes across the country, Forestry England is reminding us not to leave spent pumpkins in forests or woodlands regardless of well-meaning social media posts encouraging people to leave them for wildlife to eat.  Pumpkins are not natural to woodlands and can make some animals, including hedgehogs, very poorly. Decomposing food waste can also attract pests and spread disease.

The Complaints & Standards Committee conducts regular, thorough reviews of the complaint-handing and review processes within Thames Valley Police, helping to ensure that the force achieves the highest levels of integrity and trust within the community. Volunteer Connect are currently looking for motivated individuals who are passionate about community, perhaps retired professionals or young adults wanting to pursue a career in public service. Full training will be given, including observation of frontline officers at work, and out of pocket expenses paid. If you are interested or would like further information, please email info@volunteerconnect.org.uk

West Berkshire Council is inviting residents to nominate individuals and groups for The Community Champion Awards 2024. All nominations will be judged by an independent panel and the winners will be presented with their award at a ceremony to be held in February 2025. Say a big thank you to those who have contributed to your community by nominating online here. The closing date is 11 November. Paper nomination forms can be obtained by calling 01635 503973.

The Five Bells at Wickham is looking for fantastic stallholders for its Christmas Market on Saturday 23 November. Contact them via email at hello@fivebellswickham.co.uk if you are interested.

• If you are looking for that perfect wedding venue, Town & Manor of Hungerford suggests you take a look at the historic Hungerford Town Hall as a potential choice with plenty of character. With three separate rooms you can use, there’s a full kitchen, toilets and the use of staging, speakers and sound equipment. Call 01488 686555 to discuss your requirements.

• Have your say

Have your say on current consultations being run by West Berkshire Council:

Extension to Newbury Town Centre pedestrianisation hours – deadline 5 November 2024.
Draft Waste Management Strategy 2025-2032 – deadline 6 November 2024.
Draft Carers Strategy 2024 – 27 – deadline 17 November 2024.

Parish and town councils also run consultations from time to time: see the appropriate website/s below under Council contacts.

• Latest local newsletters

Community notices

Have your say on current consultations by West Berkshire Council and Wiltshire Council. Parish and town councils also run consultations from time to time: see the appropriate website/s below under Council contacts.

Latest news on the train service between Bedwyn and Newbury from Bedwyn Train Passenger Group, which constantly campaigns for improvements.

• Hungerford Nursery School is regularly fundraising. Please click here for how to support it.

Croft Field Activity Centre is open for bookings, be it for a dance, a party or a wedding. Click here for details.

Please don’t litter on the common – it is dangerous not only to the cows, but also to dogs and other wildlife. Thanks from Town & Manor of Hungerford.

Party box hire (to reduce single use plastic) from Hungerford Food Community at a cost of £10. Please email hungerfordfoodcommunity@gmail.com to book.

Swift Town Hungerford is encouraging residents to provide nesting places for swifts. For advice please contact Swift Town Hungerford or HEAT (Hungerford Environmental Action Team).

• Hungerford Library welcomes volunteers. Contact cultureandlibrariesvolunteers@westberks.gov.uk or call 01635 519 533.

• Hungerford Hub & Library asks if you shop online, please sign up to its Give As You Live page. It doesn’t cost you a penny but raises money for them.

• Kintbury Jubilee Centre is home to a wide range of clubs and activities. Follow its facebook page for latest news.

Neighbourhood Watch in Shalbourne: for more information, please email Kelly Elliott on kellys2678@sky.com.

Lunch for seniors and vulnerable adults can be booked at Redwood House at ldavies@fairclosecentre.org or 01635 40488.

Home-Start West Berkshire needs volunteers to help families in need. Full training provided. For more information visit home-startwestberks.org.uk, call 01635 760 310 or email office@home-startwb.org.uk.

West Berks Foodbank’s collection point is open every Wednesday 1pm to 3pm in the Methodist Church Hall, or call 0808 208 2138 (Mon to Fri 9am to 5pm except bank holidays).

Hungerford Youth Club is looking for volunteers. Please contact youth@hungerfordyc.org.uk.

Dog-walking services for elderly or seriously ill residents are provided by the Cinnamon Trust charity on 01736 757 900.

Hungerford Fire Station welcomes new on-call firefighters (a paid position).

Inkpen Village Hall offers a wide range of activities. See details here.


Local events and activities

For more information on events and activities across the Penny Post area, see the website calendar.

• Dates for the diary

• Click here for upcoming Hungerford Bookshop events and author talks.

Thu 24 Oct to Sat 26 Oct Kintbury Players: The Haunting of Dr Beeching, Kintbury.

Sun 26 Oct SWF & Kapok Wrestling, Hungerford Town Hall.

Sat 26 Oct Halloween Party, The Railway Tavern.

Sat 26 Oct Static Moves Hungerford Football Club

Sat 26 Oct Halloween Pre-school Disco  Kintbury Pre-school

Sun 27 Oct Fancy Dress Halloween Party, Hungerford RBL Club

Mon 28 to Thu 31 Oct Pumpkin Carving Fun, Cobbs Playbarn Hungerford.

Fri 1 Nov Firework Night, John O’Gaunt School.

• Fri 1 Nov Saga Louts, Hungerford RBL Club.

• Fri 1 Nov Hungerford Christmas Fair, Town Hall

• Sat 2 Nov Hungerford Christmas Fair, Town Hall

• Sat 2 Nov St Lawrence’s Lunch, St Lawrence’s Church

• Sat 2 Nov Dung Beatles Concert, The Croft Hall.

• Sat 9 Nov The Korgis & Joe Matera, The Croft Hall.

• Fri 15 Nov Rotary Club Bridge Afternoon, The Croft Hall.

Sat 23 Nov Second Hand Toy Sale, Hungerford Methodist Church.

Sat 23 Nov Christmas Fayre Hungerford Hub

• Sat 7 Dec Christmas Craft Fare, Hungerford Care Home.

• Fri 13 Dec Hungerford Victorian Extravaganza.

• Regular Events

• Craft & Chat mornings at Hungerford Library, every Friday from 10am to 12noon.

Wellbeing Sessions at Hungerford Library every Wed, 1pm to 1.30pm. Book with kate.wiggins@getberkshireactive.org or ring 07706 357801.

Hungerford Sew & Sews group for aspiring dressmakers or crafters on Monday evenings at The Croft Hall. Other crafts welcome. Find out more here.  

Women’s Walking football Weds 7-8pm on the artificial pitch behind John O’Gaunt School. You need to have Astro boots or football boots. The first session is free. Men train most Mondays from 7-8pm. See more here.

• Hungerford Historical Association hosts fascinating monthly talks, non-members are welcome.

Hungerford Jazz Forum welcomes new musicians on the last Friday of the month at the British Legion. It now showcases local bands and performers by offering a 30-minute set around 9pm. Please see more details on its facebook page here.

Mixed ability non-contact rugby for 10 to 17 year olds at Hungerford Rugby Club. Those with (or without) learning disabilities are encouraged to come along, as the coaches are experienced working with those with special needs. Monthly, all year round, on Sunday mornings from 10.30am to 11.30am. For more details please contact hungerfordtigers@gmail.com, or call  07850 517332.

Wednesday coffee mornings at the United Reformed Church 10am to 12pm in the Memorial Room (through the blue gates). Free entry. All welcome.

Hungerford Memory Singers dementia choir offers monthly singing for those living with dementia and their carers at the Hungerford British Legion.

•  20 minute dementia-friendly service at Hungerford Methodist Church every second Thur/month. Accessible to all. Call Karen on 07444 851606 for further enquiries.

Chronic Pain Recovery Support Group 5pm to 6.30pm second Tue/month at Hungerford Surgery. Contact Maria on maplecoachingltd@gmail.com or 07761 987015.

Writing Club at Froxfield Village Hall. Whether you want a quiet place to write, would like a chat with other writers, or are looking for ideas please email dunwriters@gmail.com for details. All welcome.

• Sunday CommuniTEA, family films, coffee mornings at the Methodist Church Hall on Bridge Street, plus Church @ Costa. See details here.

Weekly club runs with Hungerford Hares.

• Hungerford Youth Club runs sessions during the week for different age groups, young carers and home education children. More information here. Volunteers always welcome.

• Hungerford weekly market every Wednesday on the High Street from 8am to about 2pm, plus indoor market in the Town Hall from 9am to 3pm with lots of antique, bric-a-brac and craft stalls. Free entry. See more here.

• The Crafty Girls every first Wednesday of the month from 7pm to 9pm in the Hungerford Hub. This sociable group supplements chat with a bit of craft.

• Hungerford Library runs regular events for people of all ages. See here for details or contact the library on 01488 682660 or hungerfordlibrary@westberks.gov.uk.

• Kintbury Bridge Club meets Thursday afternoons in the Coronation Hall for relaxed, social bridge for all abilities. £2 per week. Contact Chris Doyle on 07738 756181 or kintburybridgeclub@gmail.com.


News from your local council

Note: “the most recent meeting” refers to the most recent one for which minutes (in some cases draft) or some other summary is available. Other meetings may have taken place since. Some councils publish minutes more promptly than do others. If the link is scored through this may be because draft minutes have been replaced by approved ones and the drafts file deleted. If so, please follow the links provided to the council’s website.

• Information on Hungerford Town Council can be found here. Penny Post’s most recent summary of Hungerford Town Council’s work (including notes from the meeting of 7 October 2024) can be seen here.

• The most recent meeting of Shalbourne Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 26 September and you can download the minutes here. Items covered included: speeding; a possible use for the former Shalbourne School; repairs and maintenance; planning matters; rights of way; financial matters; and the Shalbourne Club.
To see the dates, agenda and minutes for future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here.

• The most recent meeting of Chilton Foliat Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 10 September and you can read the minutes here. Items covered included: planning matters; highways and footpaths; the Parish Steward; wildlife; the Recreation Ground; financial matters; Thames Water; and forthcoming events.
To see the dates and agendas for future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here. To see the minutes, please click here

• The most recent meeting of Kintbury Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 5 September and you can read the minutes here.
To see the dates of future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here. To see the agendas, please click here. To see the minutes, please click here.

• The most recent meeting of Froxfield Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 15 July and you can read the minutes here.
To see the dates, agendas and minutes for future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here. To see the minutes, please click here.

• The most recent meeting of Inkpen Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 13 May and you can read the minutes here.
To see the dates, agendas and minutes for future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here.

• Hungerford area council contacts

• Parishes: Hungerford Town CouncilKintbury Parish CouncilShalbourne Parish CouncilHam Parish Council, Chilton Foliat Parish CouncilFroxfield Parish Council and Inkpen Parish Council.
• West Berkshire Council: click here to visit the website.
• Wiltshire Council: click here to visit the website.


News from other areas

• Penny Post area: see the following separate sections: Lambourn ValleyNewbury area; Thatcham area; Compton and Downlands; Burghfield area; Wantage area; Marlborough area.
• News and views from across the area and beyond: see the most recent Weekly News with Brian column.

Thursday 17 October 2024

Our usual round-up of local news includes cattle, community champions, compost, Christmas, Dr Beeching and apples – plus a look at the minutes of the latest Town-centre Strategy meeting, farewell to General Jackson, a local vineyard, a councillor vacancy and the recent Freedom of the Town awardees. See also below for community notices and news from your local council.

Upcoming Hungerford events include Morris Dancing & Quiz Night. See below for details, plus regular events and group activities. 

• Hungerford’s town-centre strategy

More information on Hungerford’s Town-centre Strategy Steering Group (TCSSG) can be seen here on Hungerford Town Council’s website. You can also click here for our post which covers related matters back to the point when the idea was first developed by West Berkshire Council in 2022.

Although the TCSSG meets in Hungerford to discuss Hungerford and although most of its members are from Hungerford, it is actually a West Berkshire Council body which exists in order to explore ways to ensure the long-term viability of the town. It doesn’t have any particular decision-making powers but can recommend ideas, once these have been considered, to the relevant authority.

In many cases, grants will need to be applied for which generally require detailed evidence of local need and support for the scheme. This is what the TCSSG can help provide.

The most recent meeting of the TCSSG took place on 12 September and you can read the draft minutes here. Items covered included: the terms of reference; the casting vote; a presentation by the Canal and Rivers Trust; the proposed town square; highway rights; market rights; parking; and redundant buildings.

• Freedom of the Town Recipients 2024

Congratulations to this year’s well-deserved awardees namely Barbara Barr, Tim and Sandie Crouter, and Susan Mayes. You can read their citations here, presented by Deputy Lieutenant for Berkshire, Willie Hartley Russell and The Mayor of Hungerford, Helen Simpson on Sunday 6 October 2024 in Hungerford Town Hall.

• A councillor vacancy

Hungerford Town Council currently has a vacancy for a Town Councillor, a role which can be filled by co-option (ie no election needed).

More information on the procedure for doing this and the likely commitment in terms of meetings and other matters can be found by clicking here.

• Pastures new

I’m exceedingly fond of wine but have never been tempted by the idea of making it myself. For most of my life this was, in any case, something that was the province of the sunny south of the continent. Regular trips to France, where one would drive past untold acres of vines, cemented the idea in my mind that folks down there did it better; we should stick to making beer.

All that’s now changed. New weather patterns, different grape varieties and improved techniques and technologies have now made wine cultivation in the south of England far more commonplace. English wines are now regarded seriously, whereas a couple of decades ago they weren’t.

One such vineyard is at Winding Wood just south of Wickham, on chalky south-east-facing slopes that are ideal for this kind of cultivation. The owner, Christopher Cooke, has been nurturing a vineyard here for the last 10 years. Now, he’s written a book on the subject – Ancient Land, Pastures New, more information on which you can find here.

The idea took root in Christopher Cooke’s mind in 2012 during a casual evening chat with a friend overlooking his paddock, which was then filled with happily nibbling sheep. He remarked that they were quite a lot of trouble for the return they provided. Why not plant vines there instead, the friend said, and you can drink the results?

I can’t believe that the grapes have proved to be easier to manage. I’m only a couple of chapters in but it’s already clear that the relationship between vigneron and vine is a powerful and complex one, involving horticulture, science, economics and no small amount of emotion.

It also seems to be all-consuming, with the depth of winter the only completely fallow time. And then, at any season, you’re constantly worrying about the weather, with hail and frost (neither of which are unknown in West Berkshire) being two of the main enemies.

I wouldn’t do it myself, though I’m more than happy to drink the results of the labour of others, the more so as I know that – coming as it does only a few miles down the valley from us – it’s also a local product.

General Sir Mike Jackson

One of the most high-profile British Army generals since WWII, Hungerford resident General Sir Mike Jackson GCB, CBE, DSO has sadly died this week. The Town & Manor of Hungerford is flying the Town Hall’s Union Jack at half-mast as a sign of respect, in recognition for all he has done, not only for the town, but for our country.

Hungerford Town Council also pays its respects, saying: “It has been our absolute pleasure and privilege to welcome him to many of the town’s events, in particular our Remembrance services and parades. On many an occasion he has taken the salute as REME soldiers march past the town hall, initially for the Homecoming Parade of 6 (Close Support) Bn REME in 2014 up until just this summer for the 80th Anniversary of D-Day.

“He has generously supported fundraising for the RBL and other charity events. General Sir Mike Jackson was a firebrand of the British Army with a career spanning 40 years. He was much loved by all who had the honour to serve under his command and will be greatly missed by many and long remembered.”

• Other news

• The Town & Manor of Hungerford is sad to report that this is the worst year for cattle being hit on the common, after another collision at the Kintbury end in the direction of the cattle grid. Currently the animal (number 40, blue tag) is very lame and being carefully observed. After some routine tests this week, the herd will soon be moved away from the Common. Reflective collars are being looked into ahead of next year, but unfortunately the research isn’t as promising as it had been hoped.

Berkshire Bodgers invite all to join them for their monthly green woodworking session at Little Hidden Farm in Hungerford Newtown this Sunday 20 October from 10.30am till mid-afternoon.

Hungerford Apple Day on Sunday 13 October was a great success. Residents had a go at pressing their own apple juice, Tony Hammond the apple identifier was kept busy and Tobias Lane from Heritage Fruit Trees gave out grafting advice. Nick Lumley won the largest apple competition with Ginette Gibson coming a close second. Monthly markets re-start on the second Sunday of April 2025.

You can still take your surplus garden apples to My Apple Juice at Hungerford Park to be pressed into your own delicious apple juice with a bespoke label. See here for all the details. A shocking 90% of garden apples go to waste every year while 60% of the apples we eat and drink in the UK are imported.

See here for our guide to October half term fun, including Hungerford Tesco’s Halloween Colouring Competition for age groups 3-5 years, 6-8 years and 9-11 years. Pick up a colouring sheet in store, hand it back by Monday 4 November to be in with a chance of winning a prize.

• Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service are offering free safety testing of electric blankets and portable heaters at Hungerford Fire Station on Monday 28 October 2024, dates are also available in Newbury and Thatcham. Full details here.

• Quick reminder that Open School Sessions at Hungerford Primary School run until Tuesday 12 November. If you can’t make any of the dates, contact the office on 01488 682230 to make alternative arrangements. It’s a good opportunity to meet the new headteacher, Lucy Smith.

Don’t forget to take advantage of the West Berks Council soil conditioner giveaway this Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 October between 10am and 4pm at its Padworth Waste Management Facility. No appointment is needed but take ID or a recent utility bill to prove you’re a West Berkshire resident. Take your own container so you can easily carry and load the soil conditioner into your car as these will not be provided. Expect some queues during peak times.

• Kintbury Players present The Haunting of Dr Beeching at the Coronation Hall from Friday 24 to Sunday 26 October. It’s 1952 and Dr Beeching is a young, rising star at ICI when he finds himself stranded at a lonely railway station with an interesting set of fellow travellers… including a medium! Will she predict the role he will go on to play in the railway system, and what will she foresee for the other characters? Book your tickets here.

West Berkshire Council is inviting residents to nominate individuals and groups for The Community Champion Awards 2024. All nominations will be judged by an independent panel and the winners will be presented with their award at a ceremony to be held in February 2025. Say a big thank you to those who have contributed to your community by nominating online here. The closing date is 11 November. Paper nomination forms can be obtained by calling 01635 503973.

Hungerford Youth and Community Centre are looking for your help, either to donate or to volunteer. Please contact them now to keep this great resource going.

The Five Bells at Wickham is looking for fantastic stallholders for its Christmas Market on Saturday 23 November. Contact them via email at hello@fivebellswickham.co.uk if you are interested.

Ridgeway Press is looking for your best photos of your beautiful home town to feature in its 2025 Hungerford Calendar. Prizes will be donated by local businesses for the winning photos, which will be announced at the end of October. Click here for full details.

• If you are looking for that perfect wedding venue, Town & Manor of Hungerford suggests you take a look at the historic Hungerford Town Hall as a potential choice with plenty of character. With three separate rooms you can use, there’s a full kitchen, toilets and the use of staging, speakers and sound equipment. Call 01488 686555 to discuss your requirements.

• Have your say

Have your say on current consultations being run by West Berkshire Council:

Extension to Newbury Town Centre pedestrianisation hours – deadline 5 November 2024.
Draft Waste Management Strategy 2025-2032 – deadline 6 November 2024.
Draft Carers Strategy 2024 – 27 – deadline 17 November 2024.

Parish and town councils also run consultations from time to time: see the appropriate website/s below under Council contacts.

• Latest local newsletters

Community notices

Have your say on current consultations by West Berkshire Council and Wiltshire Council. Parish and town councils also run consultations from time to time: see the appropriate website/s below under Council contacts.

Latest news on the train service between Bedwyn and Newbury from Bedwyn Train Passenger Group, which constantly campaigns for improvements.

• Hungerford Nursery School is regularly fundraising. Please click here for how to support it.

Croft Field Activity Centre is open for bookings, be it for a dance, a party or a wedding. Click here for details.

Please don’t litter on the common – it is dangerous not only to the cows, but also to dogs and other wildlife. Thanks from Town & Manor of Hungerford.

Party box hire (to reduce single use plastic) from Hungerford Food Community at a cost of £10. Please email hungerfordfoodcommunity@gmail.com to book.

Swift Town Hungerford is encouraging residents to provide nesting places for swifts. For advice please contact Swift Town Hungerford or HEAT (Hungerford Environmental Action Team).

• Hungerford Library welcomes volunteers. Contact cultureandlibrariesvolunteers@westberks.gov.uk or call 01635 519 533.

• Hungerford Hub & Library asks if you shop online, please sign up to its Give As You Live page. It doesn’t cost you a penny but raises money for them.

• Kintbury Jubilee Centre is home to a wide range of clubs and activities. Follow its facebook page for latest news.

Neighbourhood Watch in Shalbourne: for more information, please email Kelly Elliott on kellys2678@sky.com.

Lunch for seniors and vulnerable adults can be booked at Redwood House at ldavies@fairclosecentre.org or 01635 40488.

Home-Start West Berkshire needs volunteers to help families in need. Full training provided. For more information visit home-startwestberks.org.uk, call 01635 760 310 or email office@home-startwb.org.uk.

West Berks Foodbank’s collection point is open every Wednesday 1pm to 3pm in the Methodist Church Hall, or call 0808 208 2138 (Mon to Fri 9am to 5pm except bank holidays).

Hungerford Youth Club is looking for volunteers. Please contact youth@hungerfordyc.org.uk.

Dog-walking services for elderly or seriously ill residents are provided by the Cinnamon Trust charity on 01736 757 900.

Hungerford Fire Station welcomes new on-call firefighters (a paid position).

Inkpen Village Hall offers a wide range of activities. See details here.


Local events and activities

For more information on events and activities across the Penny Post area, see the website calendar.

• Dates for the diary

• Click here for upcoming Hungerford Bookshop events and author talks.

• Sat 19 Oct Dr Mike Morecroft discussion about the environment, 8.30am, St Lawrence’s Church

• Sat 19 Oct Morris Dancing Workshop, Hungerford Hub & Library.

• Sat 19 Oct Quiz Night, Hungerford Royal British Legion Club.

Thu 24 Oct West Berks SEND support drop-in, Tutti Pole.

Thu 24 Oct – Sat 26 Oct Kintbury Players: The Haunting of Dr Beeching, Kintbury.

Sun 26 Oct SWF & Kapok Wrestling, Hungerford Town Hall.

• Sat 26 Oct Halloween Party, The Railway Tavern.

• Sun 27 Oct Fancy Dress Halloween Party, Hungerford RBL Club

• Mon 28 – Thu 31 Oct Pumpkin Carving Fun, Cobbs Playbarn Hungerford.

• Fri 1 Nov Saga Louts, Hungerford RBL Club.

• Sat 2 Nov Dung Beatles Concert, The Croft Hall.

• Sat 9 Nov The Korgis & Joe Matera, The Croft Hall.

• Fri 15 Nov Rotary Club Bridge Afternoon, The Croft Hall.

Sat 23 Nov Second Hand Toy Sale, Hungerford Methodist Church.

• Sat 7 Dec Christmas Craft Fare, Hungerford Care Home.

• Fri 13 Dec Hungerford Victorian Extravaganza.

• Regular Events

• Craft & Chat mornings at Hungerford Library, every Friday from 10am to 12noon.

Wellbeing Sessions at Hungerford Library every Wed, 1pm to 1.30pm. Book with kate.wiggins@getberkshireactive.org or ring 07706 357801.

Hungerford Sew & Sews group for aspiring dressmakers or crafters on Monday evenings at The Croft Hall. Other crafts welcome. Find out more here.  

Women’s Walking football Weds 7-8pm on the artificial pitch behind John O’Gaunt School. You need to have Astro boots or football boots. The first session is free. Men train most Mondays from 7-8pm. See more here.

• Hungerford Historical Association hosts fascinating monthly talks, non-members are welcome.

Hungerford Jazz Forum welcomes new musicians on the last Friday of the month at the British Legion. It now showcases local bands and performers by offering a 30-minute set around 9pm. Please see more details on its facebook page here.

Mixed ability non-contact rugby for 10 to 17 year olds at Hungerford Rugby Club. Those with (or without) learning disabilities are encouraged to come along, as the coaches are experienced working with those with special needs. Monthly, all year round, on Sunday mornings from 10.30am to 11.30am. For more details please contact hungerfordtigers@gmail.com, or call  07850 517332.

Wednesday coffee mornings at the United Reformed Church 10am to 12pm in the Memorial Room (through the blue gates). Free entry. All welcome.

Hungerford Memory Singers dementia choir offers monthly singing for those living with dementia and their carers at the Hungerford British Legion.

•  20 minute dementia-friendly service at Hungerford Methodist Church every second Thur/month. Accessible to all. Call Karen on 07444 851606 for further enquiries.

Chronic Pain Recovery Support Group 5pm to 6.30pm second Tue/month at Hungerford Surgery. Contact Maria on maplecoachingltd@gmail.com or 07761 987015.

Writing Club at Froxfield Village Hall. Whether you want a quiet place to write, would like a chat with other writers, or are looking for ideas please email dunwriters@gmail.com for details. All welcome.

• Sunday CommuniTEA, family films, coffee mornings at the Methodist Church Hall on Bridge Street, plus Church @ Costa. See details here.

Weekly club runs with Hungerford Hares.

• Hungerford Youth Club runs sessions during the week for different age groups, young carers and home education children. More information here. Volunteers always welcome.

• Hungerford weekly market every Wednesday on the High Street from 8am to about 2pm, plus indoor market in the Town Hall from 9am to 3pm with lots of antique, bric-a-brac and craft stalls. Free entry. See more here.

• The Crafty Girls every first Wednesday of the month from 7pm to 9pm in the Hungerford Hub. This sociable group supplements chat with a bit of craft.

• Hungerford Library runs regular events for people of all ages. See here for details or contact the library on 01488 682660 or hungerfordlibrary@westberks.gov.uk.

• Kintbury Bridge Club meets Thursday afternoons in the Coronation Hall for relaxed, social bridge for all abilities. £2 per week. Contact Chris Doyle on 07738 756181 or kintburybridgeclub@gmail.com.


News from your local council

Note: “the most recent meeting” refers to the most recent one for which minutes (in some cases draft) or some other summary is available. Other meetings may have taken place since. Some councils publish minutes more promptly than do others. If the link is scored through this may be because draft minutes have been replaced by approved ones and the drafts file deleted. If so, please follow the links provided to the council’s website.

• Information on Hungerford Town Council can be found here. Penny Post’s most recent summary of Hungerford Town Council’s work (including notes from the meeting of 7 October 2024) can be seen here.

• The most recent meeting of Shalbourne Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 26 September and you can download the minutes here. Items covered included: speeding; a possible use for the former Shalbourne School; repairs and maintenance; planning matters; rights of way; financial matters; and the Shalbourne Club.
To see the dates, agenda and minutes for future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here.

• The most recent meeting of Chilton Foliat Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 10 September and you can read the minutes here. Items covered included: planning matters; highways and footpaths; the Parish Steward; wildlife; the Recreation Ground; financial matters; Thames Water; and forthcoming events.
To see the dates and agendas for future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here. To see the minutes, please click here

• The most recent meeting of Kintbury Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 1 August and you can read the minutes here.
To see the dates of future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here. To see the agendas, please click here. To see the minutes, please click here.

• The most recent meeting of Froxfield Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 15 July and you can read the minutes here.
To see the dates, agendas and minutes for future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here. To see the minutes, please click here.

• The most recent meeting of Inkpen Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 13 May and you can read the minutes here.
To see the dates, agendas and minutes for future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here.

• Hungerford area council contacts

• Parishes: Hungerford Town CouncilKintbury Parish CouncilShalbourne Parish CouncilHam Parish Council, Chilton Foliat Parish CouncilFroxfield Parish Council and Inkpen Parish Council.
• West Berkshire Council: click here to visit the website.
• Wiltshire Council: click here to visit the website.


News from other areas

• Penny Post area: see the following separate sections: Lambourn ValleyNewbury area; Thatcham area; Compton and Downlands; Burghfield area; Wantage area; Marlborough area.
• News and views from across the area and beyond: see the most recent Weekly News with Brian column.

Thursday 10 October 2024

Our usual round-up of local news includes football, rugby, open days, apples, waste and help – plus the highlights from Hungerford’s latest newsletter, the latest on parking in the town and fire prevention. See also below for community notices and news from your local council.

Upcoming Hungerford events include charity gig, Apple Day & monthly Antique Fair See below for details, plus regular events and group activities. 

• Penny Post Hungerford

Earlier this week we published the October 2024 Penny Post Hungerford e-newsletter with, as ever, the best round-up of life in the town. Click here to read it if you didn’t get it. Highlights include:

  • Our regular update on the work of Hungerford Town Council (HTC).
  • Presentations to HTC by the Head of the Primary School and a trustee of the Croft Hall.
  • The latest on the Hungerford Community Shed.
  • News and offers from many of the town’s retailers including Barrs yard.
  • Pickleball, the UK’s fastest growing sport, which can be played at the Leisure Centre.
  • Two local sporting success stories.
  • A wonderful travel experience arranged by our local travel agent, Fare Wise.
  • News of a partnership between Hungerford Bookshop and the Watermill Theatre.
  • Our regular monthly diary for John O’Gaunt’s head Teacher.
  • Events, eco news, good causes, offers and activities.
  • Properties and jobs.
  • Some wise words by Tom Stoppard.

If there’s anything you’d like to contribute to the November issue, please email penny@pennypost.org.uk by the end of this month.

• Hungerford’s parking

The question of changing parking regulations in the town has caused a good deal of local concern recently, not least as a result of the publicity that we and others gave to West Berks Council’s consultation on the matter. Over 150 people clicked through from our articles to WBC’s consultation page which resulted in a decision being taken to reverse the overnight on-street parking charges. Congratulations to portfolio holder Stuart Gourley and others at WBC responsible for making this call. Responding to consultations is worth it.

However, as the overnight charges still apply for the off-street car parks, there’s an obvious local anomoly. People will be more likely likely to park on the street overnight to the detriment of residents and perhaps traders (particularly on the evenings before the Wednesday markets), and in the process reducing overnight revenue from the car parks to almost zero. Hungerford Town Council has promised to continue its opposition to this and will closely monitor any unwelcome issues that emerge. However, it seems likely that we’ll be struck with this odd situation for at least six months.

Further confusion was also caused by possible changes to the car parking arrangements in the Tesco store, not helped by rather confusing notices that appeared there in August. Enquiries by Hungerford TC and Penny Post have established that the car park’s cameras are now operational and are designed to ensure that Tesco customers will be able to park there for two hours. The car park is, we were told, “for in-store customers only and not to be used for anyone not shopping at Tesco.” There is, however, no need for customers to input their car details into a ticket machine or at the checkouts. When the store is closed, parking is limited to 15 minutes.

So far as we’re aware, these changes are in force now. The daytime arrangements are little more than a tighter monitoring of what officially prevailed anyway.

• Reduce the risk of a house fire

The Public Protection Partnership and Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service are offering electric blanket and portable heater safety testing at Hungerford Fire Station on Monday 28 October 9.30am – 3.30pm drop-in. Also an important reminder to test your smoke alarms.

Around 43 fires a year are caused by faulty electric blankets usually when the heating element overheating. They should be stored flat, rolled up, or loosely folded to prevent damaging the internal wiring. Heaters cause around three fires a day in England. They should be kept away from furniture and curtains and should not be used for drying clothes.

Residents will be given advice and literature on how to keep themselves safe when using an electric blanket or portable heater at home and how to check for themselves if the item has any faults which could make it unsafe to use. Residents will also be provided with information from the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service about how they can receive a free ‘Safe and Well’ visit at their homes. For more information see here.

• Other news

Walking football is a great way to get fit and have some fun and the Hungerford women’s team are moving their sessions to Wednesday evenings from 7-8pm on the artificial pitch behind John O’Gaunt School, and are looking too boost numbers. You need to have Astro boots or football boots, trainers or running shoes are not allowed. The first session is free. See more here.

Hungerford Rugby Club set a record at the weekend when it staged Berkshire’s biggest girls’ Pitch Up and Play event so far. Fifteen teams from 11 Berkshire, Wiltshire and Oxfordshire clubs contested the under-12s and under-14s rugby fest, with 150 girls making use of the Triangle Field’s pitches. For more about Hungerford Rugby Juniors contact secretary Lou Evans on louise@ukrecruiter.co.uk – or follow their facebook page at facebook.com/HungerfordRugbyFootballClub

Hungerford Youth and Community Centre are looking for your help, either to donate or to volunteer. Please contact them now to keep this great resource going.

• Enjoy a great evening of live music with HoneyTrap and other bands this Saturday 12 October at Terrace Cafe upstairs at Herongate in aid of Eight Bells for Mental Health. Free entry with a donation bucket. See more details here.

• Kintbury Players present The Haunting of Dr Beeching at the Coronation Hall from Friday 24 to Sunday 26 October. It’s 1952 and Dr Beeching is a young, rising star at ICI when he finds himself stranded at a lonely railway station with an interesting set of fellow travellers….including a medium! Will she predict the role he will go on to play in the railway system, and what will she foresee for the other characters? Book your tickets here.

The Five Bells at Wickham is looking for fantastic stallholders for their Christmas Market on Saturday 23 November. Contact them via email at hello@fivebellswickham.co.uk if you are interested.

Open School Sessions at Hungerford Primary School run until Tuesday 12 November. If you can’t make any of the dates, contact the office on 01488 682230 to make alternative arrangements. It’s a good opportunity to meet the new headteacher, Lucy Smith.

John O’Gaunt School invites prospective families to book an Open Morning Tour on Friday 11 October or Monday 14 October. For more details ring 01488 682400, email jogoffice@excalibur.org.uk or visit the website www.johnogauntschool.co.uk

• Please have your say on West Berkshire Council‘s draft Waste Management Strategy which includes changing how often black bins are collected, reviewing household waste containers, expanding the range of items recycled, improving street cleanliness, and tackling fly-tipping. It is holding drop-in sessions at local libraries – see dates and times here. For our thoughts on these issues, see the Waste Management section of This Week with Brian.

Ridgeway Press is looking for your best photos of your beautiful home town to feature in its 2025 Hungerford Calendar. Prizes will be donated by local businesses for the winning photos, which will be announced at the end of October. Click here for full details.

• If you have ever thought about performing on stage, The Community of Hungerford Theatre Company is looking for more adults to join the cast of Shrek the Musical. No previous experience is necessary, just an interest in singing, dancing or acting. Email: tchtc.membership@googlemail.com

• Quick reminder about Hungerford Apple Day on Sunday 13 October at The Croft Field, where Hungerford Food Community invites you to bring your apples and pears to be pressed into delicious juice and to be identified by fruit experts, buy fruit trees and learn about grafting. Sample tasty apple recipes and enjoy all the usual stalls, street food and live music at what will be the last monthly market of the year. See more here.

• Hungerford Care Home is looking for participants for a Christmas Craft Fair. If you would be interested please call 01488 682002. There will be a charge of £10 per stall.

• If you are looking for that perfect wedding venue, Town & Manor of Hungerford suggests you take a look at the historic Hungerford Town Hall as a potential choice with plenty of character. With three separate rooms you can use, there’s a full kitchen, toilets and the use of staging, speakers and sound equipment. Call 01488 686555 to discuss your requirements.

• If you need a small office space in central Hungerford for only £350pcm (plus VAT), inclusive of all services on an 18-month lease, contact William on 07785 771690, as he could have just what you’re looking for.

Hungerford Primary School invites prospective families to several Open Days to meet their happy children and tour its beautiful grounds between Wednesday 9 October and Tuesday 11 November. To book in please contact the school office on 01488 682230 or email office@hungerford.w-berks.sch.uk. If you are unable to attend any of the given dates please contact the office to arrange a different date.

Stephanie Robbins has created two Hungerford Hand Me On facebook groups to help connect local people in need of items with those happy to pass items on to a new family. If you have items you no longer need or are looking for items to support your family’s needs, you can join these communities for Maternity, Baby and Toddler 0 to 4 years and Children’s 5 to 11 years.

• Have your say

Have your say on current consultations being run by West Berkshire Council:

Extension to Newbury Town Centre pedestrianisation hours – deadline 5 November 2024.
Draft Waste Management Strategy 2025-2032 – deadline 6 November 2024.
Draft Carers Strategy 2024 – 27 – deadline 17 November 2024.

Parish and town councils also run consultations from time to time: see the appropriate website/s below under Council contacts.

• Latest local newsletters

Community notices

Have your say on current consultations by West Berkshire Council and Wiltshire Council. Parish and town councils also run consultations from time to time: see the appropriate website/s below under Council contacts.

Latest news on the train service between Bedwyn and Newbury from Bedwyn Train Passenger Group, which constantly campaigns for improvements.

• Hungerford Nursery School is regularly fundraising. Please click here for how to support it.

Croft Field Activity Centre is open for bookings, be it for a dance, a party or a wedding. Click here for details.

Please don’t litter on the common – it is dangerous not only to the cows, but also to dogs and other wildlife. Thanks from Town & Manor of Hungerford.

Party box hire (to reduce single use plastic) from Hungerford Food Community at a cost of £10. Please email hungerfordfoodcommunity@gmail.com to book.

Swift Town Hungerford is encouraging residents to provide nesting places for swifts. For advice please contact Swift Town Hungerford or HEAT (Hungerford Environmental Action Team).

• Hungerford Library welcomes volunteers. Contact cultureandlibrariesvolunteers@westberks.gov.uk or call 01635 519 533.

• Hungerford Hub & Library asks if you shop online, please sign up to its Give As You Live page. It doesn’t cost you a penny but raises money for them.

• Kintbury Jubilee Centre is home to a wide range of clubs and activities. Follow its facebook page for latest news.

Neighbourhood Watch in Shalbourne: for more information, please email Kelly Elliott on kellys2678@sky.com.

Lunch for seniors and vulnerable adults can be booked at Redwood House at ldavies@fairclosecentre.org or 01635 40488.

Home-Start West Berkshire needs volunteers to help families in need. Full training provided. For more information visit home-startwestberks.org.uk, call 01635 760 310 or email office@home-startwb.org.uk.

West Berks Foodbank’s collection point is open every Wednesday 1pm to 3pm in the Methodist Church Hall, or call 0808 208 2138 (Mon to Fri 9am to 5pm except bank holidays).

Hungerford Youth Club is looking for volunteers. Please contact youth@hungerfordyc.org.uk.

Dog-walking services for elderly or seriously ill residents are provided by the Cinnamon Trust charity on 01736 757 900.

Hungerford Fire Station welcomes new on-call firefighters (a paid position).

Inkpen Village Hall offers a wide range of activities. See details here.


Local events and activities

For more information on events and activities across the Penny Post area, see the website calendar.

• Dates for the diary

• Click here for upcoming Hungerford Bookshop events and author talks.

• Sat 12 Oct Charity Live Music Evening with HoneyTrap, Terrace Cafe, Hungerford

• Sun 13 Oct Antiques & Collectors Fair, Town Hall.

• Sun 13 Oct Hungerford Apple Day & Monthly Market, Croft Field.

• Sat 19 Oct Morris Dancing Workshop  Hungerford Hub & Library.

Thu 24 Oct West Berks SEND support drop-in, Tutti Pole.

Thu 24 Oct – Sat 26 Oct Kintbury Players: The Haunting of Dr Beeching, Kintbury.

Sun 26 Oct SWF & Kapok Wrestling, Hungerford Town Hall.

• Sat 26 Oct Halloween Party, The Railway Tavern.

• Sat 2 Nov Dung Beatles Concert, The Croft Hall.

• Sat 9 Nov The Korgis & Joe Matera  The Croft Hall

• Fri 15 Nov Rotary Club Bridge Afternoon The Croft Hall

Sat 23 Nov Second Hand Toy Sale Hungerford Methodist Church.

• Sat 7 Dec Christmas Craft Fare, Hungerford Care Home.

• Fri 13 Dec Hungerford Victorian Extravaganza.

• Regular Events

• Craft & Chat mornings at Hungerford Library, every Friday from 10am to noon.

Wellbeing Sessions at Hungerford Library every Wed, 1pm to 1.30pm. Book with kate.wiggins@getberkshireactive.org or ring 07706 357801.

Hungerford Sew & Sews group for aspiring dressmakers or crafters on Monday evenings at The Croft Hall. Other crafts welcome. Find out more here.  

• Hungerford Historical Association hosts fascinating monthly talks, non-members are welcome.

Hungerford Jazz Forum welcomes new musicians on the last Friday of the month at the British Legion. It now showcases local bands and performers by offering a 30-minute set around 9pm. Please see more details on its facebook page here.

Mixed ability non-contact rugby for 10 to 17 year olds at Hungerford Rugby Club. Those with (or without) learning disabilities are encouraged to come along, as the coaches are experienced working with those with special needs. Monthly, all year round, on Sunday mornings from 10.30am to 11.30am. For more details please contact hungerfordtigers@gmail.com, or call  07850 517332.

Walking Football with Hungerford Town Walking Football for over-50s. New members always welcome to train most Mondays from 7-8pm at John O’Gaunt School’s artificial pitch.

Women’s Walking Football Club on Thursday evenings from 7pm to 8pm. No restrictions on age, fitness or ability. Further info from Martin.brailli@btinternet.com.

Wednesday coffee mornings at the United Reformed Church 10am to 12pm in the Memorial Room (through the blue gates). Free entry. All welcome.

Hungerford Memory Singers dementia choir offers monthly singing for those living with dementia and their carers at the Hungerford British Legion.

•  20 minute dementia-friendly service at Hungerford Methodist Church every second Thur/month. Accessible to all. Call Karen on 07444 851606 for further enquiries.

Chronic Pain Recovery Support Group 5pm to 6.30pm second Tue/month at Hungerford Surgery. Contact Maria on maplecoachingltd@gmail.com or 07761 987015.

Writing Club at Froxfield Village Hall. Whether you want a quiet place to write, would like a chat with other writers, or are looking for ideas please email dunwriters@gmail.com for details. All welcome.

• Sunday CommuniTEA, family films, coffee mornings at the Methodist Church Hall on Bridge Street, plus Church @ Costa. See details here.

Weekly club runs with Hungerford Hares.

• Hungerford Youth Club runs sessions during the week for different age groups, young carers and home education children. More information here. Volunteers always welcome.

• Hungerford weekly market every Wednesday on the High Street from 8am to about 2pm, plus indoor market in the Town Hall from 9am to 3pm with lots of antique, bric-a-brac and craft stalls. Free entry. See more here.

• The Crafty Girls every first Wednesday of the month from 7pm to 9pm in the Hungerford Hub. This sociable group supplements chat with a bit of craft.

• Hungerford Library runs regular events for people of all ages. See here for details or contact the library on 01488 682660 or hungerfordlibrary@westberks.gov.uk.

• Kintbury Bridge Club meets Thursday afternoons in the Coronation Hall for relaxed, social bridge for all abilities. £2 per week. Contact Chris Doyle on 07738 756181 or kintburybridgeclub@gmail.com.


News from your local council

Note: “the most recent meeting” refers to the most recent one for which minutes (in some cases draft) or some other summary is available. Other meetings may have taken place since. Some councils publish minutes more promptly than do others. If the link is scored through this may be because draft minutes have been replaced by approved ones and the drafts file deleted. If so, please follow the links provided to the council’s website.

• Information on Hungerford Town Council can be found here. Penny Post’s most recent summary of Hungerford Town Council’s work (including notes from the meeting of 7 October 2024) can be seen here.

• The most recent meeting of Shalbourne Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 26 September and you can download the minutes here. Items covered included: speeding; a possible use for the former Shalbourne School; repairs and maintenance; planning matters; rights of way; financial matters; and the Shalbourne Club.
To see the dates, agenda and minutes for future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here.

• The most recent meeting of Chilton Foliat Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 10 September and you can read the minutes here. Items covered included: planning matters; highways and footpaths; the Parish Steward; wildlife; the Recreation Ground; financial matters; Thames Water; and forthcoming events.
To see the dates and agendas for future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here. To see the minutes, please click here

• The most recent meeting of Kintbury Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 1 August and you can read the minutes here.
To see the dates of future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here. To see the agendas, please click here. To see the minutes, please click here.

• The most recent meeting of Froxfield Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 15 July and you can read the minutes here.
To see the dates, agendas and minutes for future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here. To see the minutes, please click here.

• The most recent meeting of Inkpen Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 13 May and you can read the minutes here.
To see the dates, agendas and minutes for future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here.

• Hungerford area council contacts

• Parishes: Hungerford Town CouncilKintbury Parish CouncilShalbourne Parish CouncilHam Parish Council, Chilton Foliat Parish CouncilFroxfield Parish Council and Inkpen Parish Council.
• West Berkshire Council: click here to visit the website.
• Wiltshire Council: click here to visit the website.


News from other areas

• Penny Post area: see the following separate sections: Lambourn ValleyNewbury area; Thatcham area; Compton and Downlands; Burghfield area; Wantage area; Marlborough area.
• News and views from across the area and beyond: see the most recent Weekly News with Brian column.

Thursday 3 October 2024

Our usual round-up of local news includes pickleball, sewing, spying, apples, photos and dancing – plus trying to discover Tesco’s new parking regs, a forthcoming meeting and newsletter, EV charge points, a letter on the land grab and an interview with West Berkshire Council’s Chair of Scrutiny. See also below for community notices and news from your local council.

Upcoming Hungerford events include Piano Recital & Spy Author Talk. See below for details, plus regular events and group activities. 

• Hungerford’s parking

Much has been written about this of late, including by me. As reported recently (see below), responses to the consultation have produced a welcome change of heart by WBC with regard to 24/7 charges on the street, though these still apply in the car parks. Sunday charges will apply in both.

We also reported on proposed changes to the parking arrangements in Tesco few weeks ago. The signs that were put up then made little sense and the message received a less than effusive confirmation from Tesco HQ. It now seems that new number-plate-recognition cameras are being installed there: so from some uncertain date shoppers will, presumably, need to register their car details at the checkout to avoid being fined.

I must stress that these are currently only rumours. We’ve been trying to find out exactly what the new arrangements will be and when they’ll come into force, and will pass these on as soon as we know more. Hopefully, any signs in the car park itself will make more sense than the last ones did.

I’m also interested to know how restricting parking when the store is closed will help anything. Possibly this was proposed when it was thought that overnight parking charges would be imposed on the street. However, as mentioned above, this won’t now be happening. Will there therefore be any need to restrict overnight parking at Tesco?

If they are, one thing that would be a handsome gesture to the town would be for Tesco to allow guests at The Three Swans to park overnight on Tuesday/Wednesday. At present, some use bays in the High Street, despite the signs, which prevent the market setting up. Any chance of a quick summit meeting on that matter?

• Penny Post Hungerford

The October edition of Penny Post Hungerford will be published on Tuesday 8 October and will as ever provide the best round-up of what’s going on in the town. If there’s anything you want to contribute to this, please email penny@pennypost.org.uk as soon as possible.

The timing of this newsletter is determined by the meetings of Hungerford Town Council, which normally take place on the first working Monday of the month. Coverage of the meeting, and the other matters with which the Town Council is concerned, are always the main stories in Penny Post Hungerford. Members of the public are welcome to attend the meetings (except for any Part 2 at the end at which confidential or commercially sensitive matters are discussed). Details of the meeting on Monday 7 October including the agenda can be found here.

• EV chargers

A statement from West Berkshire Council refers to EV charge points which have been installed in Hungerford Church Street Car Park, adding that “we are now waiting on the grid connection and energy supply contract before going live.” As we mentioned before, this can be the longest part of any EV-charger installation so it would be best not to speculate on when the juice will actually be turned on.

The statement adds that “you can keep up-to-date on our on-street and car park electric vehicle charging points by clicking here. If you need more information that you can’t find on our website, please contact our team via email on ev@westberks.gov.uk.”

• Kintbury’s land grab

On several occasions over the last few months (in particular on 27 June, 8 August, 15 August and 12 September – see below and/or the archive sections), we’ve written about the strange tale of unauthorised development that’s taken place near Kintbury station.

Last week, I issued an appeal for Network Rail, the landowners, to respond to some questions posed by Kintbury PC some weeks before. It appears that the plea was answered and a reply was sent. However, having read it, I can’t make head nor tail of it and nor, it seems, can Kintbury PC. Matters therefore effectively rest where they were this time last week.

As soon as Network Rail sends something to Kintbury PC which answers its questions, and which it can understand, we’ll let you know more. Until then, we can’t.

• The chief scrutineer

Carolyne Culver of the Green Party was elected as the member for Ridgeway ward on West Berkshire Council in 2019, a seat she retained in 2023. Following this election, she was appointed Chair of WBC’s Scrutiny Commission, an increasingly demanding role which she discharges in addition to all her normal ward work.

But what exactly is the Scrutiny Commission and what does it do? Who better to ask than its Chair: so, we caught up with Carolyne between meetings, casework and Zoom calls to ask her a few questions about the body and why its work is so important. You can read the interview here.

• Other news

The Hungerford Neighbourhood Policing Team is holding “Have Your Say” drop-ins this Saturday 5 October at Church Street, Kintbury from 2.45pm to 3.15pm, and Hungerford High Street from 3.30pm to 4pm. Please go along to discuss any crime-related issues you may have in the community that are causing you concern. The team will also be offering crime prevention advice.

• Hungerford Leisure Centre invites over 60s to join its Silver Sunday event this Sunday 6 October from 10am to noon for a fun-filled morning of free activities to keep active, social, and engaged. See here for more details.

• To celebate World Pickleball Day on Thursday 10 October, Hungerford Leisure Centre will also be offering free sessions between 7.30pm and 8.30pm. Pickleball is a fun sport that combines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis. Played both indoors or outdoors on a badminton-sized court and a slightly modified tennis net. Two or four players use solid paddles made of wood or composite materials to hit a perforated polymer ball over a net. See here for more details.

• For any aspiring dressmakers or crafters, Fiona Cox is starting a new Hungerford Sew & Sews group on Mondays at The Croft Hall from 7 October. Other crafts welcome. Find out more here.  

Hungerford Bookshop is hosting a special author talk in Hungerford Town Hall at 7pm next Wednesday 9 October, with Lieutenant Colonel Tim Spicer OBE, who has written the first ever biography of the spymaster Wilfred “Biffy” Dunderdale, revealing the intriguing story of an extraordinary man. See here for details and to book your tickets.

Open School Sessions at Hungerford Primary School start next Wednesday 9 October and run until Tuesday 12 November. If you can’t make any of the dates, contact the office on 01488 682230 to make alternative arrangements. It’s a good opportunity to meet the new headteacher, Lucy Smith.

John O’Gaunt School welcomes prospective families to its Open Evening on Thursday 10 October from 4.30pm to 7pm with the Principal’s Address at 4.45pm and 5.45pm. You can also book an Open Morning Tour on Friday 11 October or Monday 14 October. For more details ring 01488 682400, email jogoffice@excalibur.org.uk or visit the website www.johnogauntschool.co.uk

• Please have your say on West Berkshire Council‘s draft Waste Management Strategy which includes changing how often black bins are collected, reviewing household waste containers, expanding the range of items recycled, improving street cleanliness, and tackling fly-tipping. It is holding drop-in sessions at local libraries – see dates and times here. For our thoughts on these issues, see the Waste Management section of This Week with Brian.

Ridgeway Press is looking for your best photos of your beautiful home town to feature in its 2025 Hungerford Calendar. Prizes will be donated by local businesses for the winning photos, which will be announced at the end of October. Click here for full details.

• If you have ever thought about performing on stage, The Community of Hungerford Theatre Company is looking for more adults to join the cast of Shrek the Musical. No previous experience is necessary, just an interest in singing, dancing or acting. Email: tchtc.membership@googlemail.com

• Quick reminder about Hungerford Apple Day on Sunday 13 October at The Croft Field, where Hungerford Food Community invites you to bring your apples and pears to be pressed into delicious juice and to be identified by fruit experts, buy fruit trees and learn about grafting. Sample tasty apple recipes and enjoy all the usual stalls, street food and live music at what will be the last monthly market of the year. See more here.

• Hungerford Care Home is looking for participants for a Christmas Craft Fair. If you would be interested please call 01488 682002. There will be a charge of £10 per stall.

• If you are looking for that perfect wedding venue, Town & Manor of Hungerford suggests you take a look at the historic Hungerford Town Hall as a potential choice with plenty of character. With three separate rooms you can use, there’s a full kitchen, toilets and the use of staging, speakers and sound equipment. Call 01488 686555 to discuss your requirements.

• If you need a small office space in central Hungerford for only £350pcm (plus VAT), inclusive of all services on an 18-month lease, contact William on 07785 771690, as he could have just what you’re looking for.

Hungerford Primary School invites prospective families to several Open Days to meet their happy children and tour its beautiful grounds between Wednesday 9 October and Tuesday 11 November. To book in please contact the school office on 01488 682230 or email office@hungerford.w-berks.sch.uk. If you are unable to attend any of the given dates please contact the office to arrange a different date.

Stephanie Robbins has created two Hungerford Hand Me On facebook groups to help connect local people in need of items with those happy to pass items on to a new family. If you have items you no longer need or are looking for items to support your family’s needs, you can join these communities for Maternity, Baby and Toddler 0 to 4 years and Children’s 5 to 11 years.

• Have your say

Have your say on current consultations being run by West Berkshire Council:

Extension to Newbury Town Centre pedestrianisation hours – deadline 5 November 2024.
Draft Waste Management Strategy 2025-2032 – deadline 6 November 2024.

Parish and town councils also run consultations from time to time: see the appropriate website/s below under Council contacts.

• Latest local newsletters

Community notices

Have your say on current consultations by West Berkshire Council and Wiltshire Council. Parish and town councils also run consultations from time to time: see the appropriate website/s below under Council contacts.

Latest news on the train service between Bedwyn and Newbury from Bedwyn Train Passenger Group, which constantly campaigns for improvements.

• Hungerford Nursery School is regularly fundraising. Please click here for how to support it.

Croft Field Activity Centre is open for bookings, be it for a dance, a party or a wedding. Click here for details.

Please don’t litter on the common – it is dangerous not only to the cows, but also to dogs and other wildlife. Thanks from Town & Manor of Hungerford.

Party box hire (to reduce single use plastic) from Hungerford Food Community at a cost of £10. Please email hungerfordfoodcommunity@gmail.com to book.

Swift Town Hungerford is encouraging residents to provide nesting places for swifts. For advice please contact Swift Town Hungerford or HEAT (Hungerford Environmental Action Team).

• Hungerford Library welcomes volunteers. Contact cultureandlibrariesvolunteers@westberks.gov.uk or call 01635 519 533.

• Hungerford Hub & Library asks if you shop online, please sign up to its Give As You Live page. It doesn’t cost you a penny but raises money for them.

• Kintbury Jubilee Centre is home to a wide range of clubs and activities. Follow its facebook page for latest news.

Neighbourhood Watch in Shalbourne: for more information, please email Kelly Elliott on kellys2678@sky.com.

Lunch for seniors and vulnerable adults can be booked at Redwood House at ldavies@fairclosecentre.org or 01635 40488.

Home-Start West Berkshire needs volunteers to help families in need. Full training provided. For more information visit home-startwestberks.org.uk, call 01635 760 310 or email office@home-startwb.org.uk.

West Berks Foodbank’s collection point is open every Wednesday 1pm to 3pm in the Methodist Church Hall, or call 0808 208 2138 (Mon to Fri 9am to 5pm except bank holidays).

Hungerford Youth Club is looking for volunteers. Please contact youth@hungerfordyc.org.uk.

Dog-walking services for elderly or seriously ill residents are provided by the Cinnamon Trust charity on 01736 757 900.

Hungerford Fire Station welcomes new on-call firefighters (a paid position).

Inkpen Village Hall offers a wide range of activities. See details here.


Local events and activities

For more information on events and activities across the Penny Post area, see the website calendar.

• Dates for the diary

• Click here for upcoming Hungerford Bookshop events and author talks.

Fri 4 Oct Sounds of the 60s, The Croft Hungerford.

• Sat 5 Oct Piano Recital, St Lawrence’s Church, Hungerford.

• Sun 6 Oct Orienteering Day, Kintbury.

Sun 6 Oct Kintbury Village Market & Fayre, Kintbury Jubilee Centre.

Wed 9 Oct A Suspicion of Spies Author Talk, Hungerford Town Hall.

• Sun 13 Oct Hungerford Apple Day & Monthly Market, Croft Field.

• Sat 19 Oct Morris Dancing workshop at Hungerford Hub, from 2pm to 4.30pm.

Thu 24 Oct West Berks SEND support drop-in, Tutti Pole.

Thu 24 Oct – Sat 26 Oct Kintbury Players: The Haunting of Dr Beeching, Kintbury.

Sun 26 Oct SWF & Kapok Wrestling, Hungerford Town Hall.

• Sat 26 Oct Halloween Party, The Railway Tavern.

• Sat 2 Nov Dung Beatles Concert, The Croft.

• Sat 7 Dec Christmas Craft Fare, Hungerford Care Home.

• Fri 13 Dec Hungerford Victorian Extravaganza.

• Regular Events

• Craft & Chat mornings at Hungerford Library, every Friday from 10am to noon.

Wellbeing Sessions at Hungerford Library every Wed, 1pm to 1.30pm. Book with kate.wiggins@getberkshireactive.org or ring 07706 357801.

• Hungerford Historical Association hosts fascinating monthly talks, non-members are welcome.

Hungerford Jazz Forum welcomes new musicians on the last Friday of the month at the British Legion. It now showcases local bands and performers by offering a 30-minute set around 9pm. Please see more details on its facebook page here.

Mixed ability non-contact rugby for 10 to 17 year olds at Hungerford Rugby Club. Those with (or without) learning disabilities are encouraged to come along, as the coaches are experienced working with those with special needs. Monthly, all year round, on Sunday mornings from 10.30am to 11.30am. For more details please contact hungerfordtigers@gmail.com, or call  07850 517332.

Walking Football with Hungerford Town Walking Football for over-50s. New members always welcome to train most Mondays from 7-8pm at John O’Gaunt School’s artificial pitch.

Women’s Walking Football Club on Thursday evenings from 7pm to 8pm. No restrictions on age, fitness or ability. Further info from Martin.brailli@btinternet.com.

Wednesday coffee mornings at the United Reformed Church 10am to 12pm in the Memorial Room (through the blue gates). Free entry. All welcome.

Hungerford Memory Singers dementia choir offers monthly singing for those living with dementia and their carers at the Hungerford British Legion.

•  20 minute dementia-friendly service at Hungerford Methodist Church every second Thur/month. Accessible to all. Call Karen on 07444 851606 for further enquiries.

Chronic Pain Recovery Support Group 5pm to 6.30pm second Tue/month at Hungerford Surgery. Contact Maria on maplecoachingltd@gmail.com or 07761 987015.

Writing Club at Froxfield Village Hall. Whether you want a quiet place to write, would like a chat with other writers, or are looking for ideas please email dunwriters@gmail.com for details. All welcome.

• Sunday CommuniTEA, family films, coffee mornings at the Methodist Church Hall on Bridge Street, plus Church @ Costa. See details here.

Weekly club runs with Hungerford Hares.

• Hungerford Youth Club runs sessions during the week for different age groups, young carers and home education children. More information here. Volunteers always welcome.

• Hungerford weekly market every Wednesday on the High Street from 8am to about 2pm, plus indoor market in the Town Hall from 9am to 3pm with lots of antique, bric-a-brac and craft stalls. Free entry. See more here.

• The Crafty Girls every first Wednesday of the month from 7pm to 9pm in the Hungerford Hub. This sociable group supplements chat with a bit of craft.

• Hungerford Library runs regular events for people of all ages. See here for details or contact the library on 01488 682660 or hungerfordlibrary@westberks.gov.uk.

• Kintbury Bridge Club meets Thursday afternoons in the Coronation Hall for relaxed, social bridge for all abilities. £2 per week. Contact Chris Doyle on 07738 756181 or kintburybridgeclub@gmail.com.


News from your local council

Note: “the most recent meeting” refers to the most recent one for which minutes (in some cases draft) or some other summary is available. Other meetings may have taken place since. Some councils publish minutes more promptly than do others. If the link is scored through this may be because draft minutes have been replaced by approved ones and the drafts file deleted. If so, please follow the links provided to the council’s website.

• Information on Hungerford Town Council can be found here. Penny Post’s most recent summary of Hungerford Town Council’s work (including notes from the meeting of 2 September 2024) can be seen here.

• The most recent meeting of Shalbourne Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 26 September and you can download the minutes here. Items covered included: speeding; a possible use for the former Shalbourne School; repairs and maintenance; planning matters; rights of way; financial matters; and the Shalbourne Club.
To see the dates, agenda and minutes for future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here.

• The most recent meeting of Chilton Foliat Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 10 September and you can read the minutes here. Items covered included: planning matters; highways and footpaths; the Parish Steward; wildlife; the Recreation Ground; financial matters; Thames Water; and forthcoming events.
To see the dates and agendas for future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here. To see the minutes, please click here

• The most recent meeting of Kintbury Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 1 August and you can read the minutes here.
To see the dates of future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here. To see the agendas, please click here. To see the minutes, please click here.

• The most recent meeting of Froxfield Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 15 July and you can read the minutes here.
To see the dates, agendas and minutes for future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here. To see the minutes, please click here.

• The most recent meeting of Inkpen Parish Council for which minutes are available took place on 13 May and you can read the minutes here.
To see the dates, agendas and minutes for future Parish Council meetings (including any committees), please click here.

• Hungerford area council contacts

• Parishes: Hungerford Town CouncilKintbury Parish CouncilShalbourne Parish CouncilHam Parish Council, Chilton Foliat Parish CouncilFroxfield Parish Council and Inkpen Parish Council.
• West Berkshire Council: click here to visit the website.
• Wiltshire Council: click here to visit the website.


News from other areas

• Penny Post area: see the following separate sections: Lambourn ValleyNewbury area; Thatcham area; Compton and Downlands; Burghfield area; Wantage area; Marlborough area.
• News and views from across the area and beyond: see the most recent Weekly News with Brian column.

 

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