Newsletter 135

Aldwick Preservation Society
http://www.aldwickpreservation,org
Registered Charity No. 295133
NEWSLETTER NO. 135 May 2014

Chairman’s AGM Report for 2013

The Chairman presented his report which gave a summary of the Aldwick Preservation Society’s (APS) activities during the previous year. He said how sad we were that our President, Mrs Penny Knowles, passed away in January 2014.

He informed the meeting of the fund raising activities during the previous year and the award of grants from WSCC and Aldwick Parish Council towards the on-going maintenance of our pond. The Society also received Operation Watershed funds from WSCC for de-silting the pond to reduce the likelihood of recurring events of June 2012 when Aldwick Road flooded.

The Chairman thanked retiring committee members, Mrs Jenny Timoney and
Mr.Barry Baines, for their years of service on the APS Committee. He also thanked Mrs Molly Hendry for her work on the editing and layout of our Newsletter, together with thanks to Mrs Mags Baines for collating and distributing the Newsletter and to all members who deliver them. He thanked Mr Paul Bignell, Vice Chairman, for his constant “behind the scene” work.

He said that he and his wife, Valerie (Hon Secretary), will retire from their present roles with the APS as they plan move on to pastures new, but will continue to help the new committee while they are still resident in Aldwick. He thanked Jenny Timoney for her vote of thanks for Valerie and his contribution to the APS committee and expressed his best wishes to the new Committee for the future in keeping Aldwick as the members would want it through the work of the APS.

A. P. Smith MA, Chairman Aldwick Preservation Society

Election of the Executive Committee The following members were elected to the Executive Committee at the Annual General Meeting held on Tuesday, 12th March 2014 : Chairman: Paul Bignell, Vice Chairman: Vacant,
Hon. Secretary: Gillian Brown, Hon. Treasurer: John Pressdee FCA, Events Organiser: Carole Druce,
Co-opted members: Tony Smith and Valerie Smith.

The meeting was attended by 21 people. This was a disappointing turnout from 900+ members, especially as we put up posters encouraging attendance to the AGM and an invitation to join the Committee.

Message from your new Chairman

Welcome to the latest issue of the A.P.S. Newsletter, my first as Chairman. For those of you that do not know me, I have been a member of The Aldwick Preservation Society since my wife and me moved to Aldwick in the late eighties. I have been on the Committee since the early nineties. In that time I have known four chairmen and served under three of them as Vice Chairman. When the next Chairman puts his head above the parapet I will happily serve him as Vice Chairman, if wanted. By the time you receive this Newsletter the contractors working on the duck pond should be finished and we will be able to carry out the necessary tidy up and refurbishment to get the duck pond back to normal again.

In mid-April our ex pond manager, Stan Gillett stepped in to help with this mammoth task and, following Easter holidays another member, Philip Sargent, has also got involved in the upkeep and maintenance of our pond and its surrounds. A big “thank you” to Phil for his commitment.

I am pleased to welcome Mrs Carole Druce to our Committee, Carole has agreed to take on the role of Events Organiser.

Don’t forget we still need new members, with a bit of spare time, to serve on the Committee and help run The Society. We meet just five times a year and run the following events. We work as a team so none of the tasks are onerous. We would very much like to welcome more members to the committee.

PROGRAMME OF EVENTS

Sat 14th June Summer Fayre 10.00 a.m. Willowhale Community Centre. Admission, inclusive of coffee or tea, is 50p. There will be a variety of stalls, plants, summer fruits, home baking, books, jigsaws, wine spinner and grand raffle. Contributions to the stalls and raffle will be gratefully received but no electrical items, clothes, shoes or jumble please. In addition there will be charity stalls. This is one of our major fund-raising events for the year, please support
it and have an enjoyable time.

Sat 16th August 11.00 am. Social Event at the Duck Pond (subject to weather). An opportunity to meet your Committee for a chat and exchange ideas relevant to the duck pond and any other activities of the Society. Light refreshments will be available. There will be a wine raffle which will be drawn at 12 noon.

Sat 18th October Autumn Lunch, 12 noon, at Willowhale Centre.
Details will follow in the September Newsletter. Put the date in your diary.

Sat 6th December Christmas Fayre, 10.00 a.m. at Willowhale Centre.
Details to follow in the November Newsletter. Put the date in your diary.

If this Newsletter is being delivered to your address, by reason of the previous occupant’s membership of The Society, perhaps you would consider becoming a member yourself for a fee of just £10 for life membership. Please telephone Mrs Valerie Smith on 01243 827163 and she will be happy to let you have a membership form. The Society owns and maintains the Aldwick duck pond, and works in close liaison with the Parish Council to keep Aldwick the beautiful place it is today.

Contact the Committee
Chairman: Paul Bignell 07736 130888
Hon. Secretary: Gillian Brown 01243 862059 email: gillianannabrown@aol.com
Hon. Treasurer: John Pressdee 01243 826431
Events Organiser: Carole Druce 07732 768890 email: carole.druce@hotmail.co.uk

                      Aldwick Preservation Society

www.aldwickpreservation,org

Registered Charity No. 295133

 

Newsletter No. 134  February 2014

 

Fundraising continued through the year but our funds are only standing still.  The notable successes were the additional grant from Aldwick Parish Council and funds from WSCC to enable the pond to be de-silted, as part of the flood relief scheme for the area.  The work started 20^th January and will last about four weeks.

 

Founder and President Penny Knowles

 

We were sad to learn that our founder member, Penny Knowles, passed away on 9^th January 2014.

 

Back in August 1977 Penny wrote to The Observer about the impending loss of the Aldwick pond and surrounding area to development.  She formed a committee that became the Aldwick Preservation Society.  The members successfully fought off the development and restored the pond as we now know it.  In later years Penny became our President and continued to support our events.  She has been an inspiration to us all.

 

The most important, even crucial, consideration is the continuing of the Society through an active membership and Committee.  The AGM, on 11^th March, will be a defining moment for the Society.  Four Committee members will not be seeking re-election.  This means we are in need of a Chairman, Hon. Secretary, Events Organiser and Membership/Newsletter Organiser.  A Chairman and Hon. Secretary are essential, as they are the Officers of the Society together with the Hon. Treasurer, the Society cannot continue without them.  Without fund raising we would have to rely on grant applications, the success of which cannot be guaranteed.  It would be a sad day if the Society cannot continue if it is not able to elect an Executive Committee.

 

Communication through the Newsletter is important to all members.  If it is not written, printed and delivered through our member volunteer deliverers it cannot continue.  The Newsletter has played a vital part in advertising all our events, if we had to mail Newsletters and the AGM Notice it would cost the Society £500 four times a year, need I say more.

 

Chairman, Tony Smith, gives notice that he will be stepping down from the Executive Committee at the AGM.  The Hon. Secretary, Mrs Valerie Smith, will also not be seeking re-election at the AGM.

 

If you wish to be nominated for either of the above positions on the Executive Committee please note the following and submit your nomination.

 

 

 

 

Notice of The Annual General Meeting 2014

 

THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING WILL BE HELD AT ALDWICK PARISH COUNCIL OFFICES ON TUESDAY 11^TH MARCH 2014  2.00 P.M. (MEETING COMMENCES AT 2.30 P.M)

 

Members are asked to submit details, in writing, on matters that they wish to be included on the AGM Agenda, these must be submitted to Hon. Secretary

Mrs V Smith, 4 Rochester Way, Aldwick PO21 3RD by no later than Tuesday 4^th March 2014.  In accordance with the Society’s Constitution all officers and members of the Executive Committee relinquish their office each year but are eligible for re-election, if they so wish, at the AGM.  Four Committee members are not seeking re-election.  Nominations for Officers and Members of the Committee must be made in writing to the Hon. Secretary by Monday, 24^th February 2014.  Such nominations must be proposed and seconded by a member of the Society and must include the written consent of the proposed nominee.  Any additional guidance on the procedure can be obtained from the Hon. Secretary.  Tea, coffee and biscuits will be served before the meeting which with start at 2.30 p.m.  Please put this important date in your diary and we look forward to seeing you there.  The draft agenda is shown below, subject to change if additional items are submitted in accordance with the Constitution.  A final Agenda, together with a copy of the Annual Accounts and the 2013 AGM Minutes will be available at the meeting.

 DRAFT AGENDA

1. Apologies for absence.
2. Minutes of the previous AGM 12^th March 2013 and matters      arising.
3. Chairman’s Annual Report
4. Presentation of the Accounts for 2013.
5. Election of Officers to the Executive Committee.
6. Election of Members to the Executive Committee.
7. Any Other Business – any items submitted in accordance with the      Constitution, in writing by 4^th      March 2014.
8. Date of next meeting.

 

Christmas Fayre 2013

The Christmas Fayre proved to be very popular with over 190 people attending.  This was challenging to our Tea Team who managed to keep the kettles boiling, many thanks to the team.  It was nice to see Nick Gibb MP supporting us again.  We raised £580 for the Society’s funds.  A vote of thanks to Jenny was given by Nick Gibb as this was Jenny’s last fund raising event for the Society.

 

2014 Programme of Future Events for your diary

Annual General Meeting 11^th March at 2pm (start at 2.30) Aldwick Parish Office

The following dates have been booked but will only run if an Events Organiser is elected at the AGM.

Summer Fayre Saturday 14^th June 10am Willowhale Centre – Details to follow.

Social Event at the Duck pond Sat. 16^th  August at 11a.m. – Details to follow (subject to weather).

Autumn Lunch Saturday 18^th October 12am Willowhale Centre – Details to follow.

Christmas Fayre Saturday 6^th December 10am Willowhale Centre – Details to follow.

 

 

Contact the Committee

Chairman: Tony Smith 01243 827163                         Vice Chairman:  Paul Bignell 07736 130888

Hon. Secretary: Valerie Smith 01243 827163            Hon. Treasurer: John Pressdee 01243 826431

Events Organiser: Jenny Timoney 01243 822674       Membership: Barry Baines 01243 266140

Newsletter No.133

Looking after our environment

There has been much coverage in the media about biodiversity and the environment. What does this mean for us in Aldwick? Put simply biodiversity is about the wild life, flowers, trees, shrubs, green spaces and water resources in our environment. Put these together and we have an ecosystem. Aldwick has its own unique biodiversity and ecosystem, which we all need to be aware of and take care of. If we do not look after our wildlife, flowers, trees and shrubs in our gardens and public green spaces, around our pond and rifes they will disappear. It is important to consider how you, as a member of our Society, can help maintain and improve the environment we live in.

The pond and surrounding area is now looking good, due to the efforts of Nick Kremer and work of the Committee. Nick has a planting plan, which the Committee has agreed, for shrubs and plants which will continue into 2014. This will attract pollinators, as well as enhancing the appearance of the area to be enjoyed by all Aldwick residents and beyond. The committee thanks all who have made donations for plants, which to-date have totalled £190.00.

As we are surrounded by agricultural land, trees and shrubs these all play an important role in our biodiversity and contribute to a green and pleasant environment around Aldwick.

We have developed a good working relationship with Aldwick Parish Council to keep Aldwick looking green and biodiverse. They have helped us obtain funds from WSCC, through Operation Watershed, to de-silt our pond. We have also been awarded a Discretionary Grant to help maintain the pond and green areas that we look after, which will be continued in 2014 and beyond.

You can help our endeavours by becoming a more active member, to continue the work of our founder members who saved the Duck Pond and Aldwick Green from the developers spade.

Aldwick Duck Pond in Oils

Mrs E. Cooper, of Aldwick, has donated to the Society a painting in oils of Aldwick Duck Pond, painted by the artist P. F. Cullwick in 1988. Our thanks to Mrs Cooper for the painting which is now part of our Society’s heritage. We will display the painting at our AGM in March 2014.

FINAL WORKING PARTY 2013

Meet at the Duck Pond at 10.30 a.m. on Sunday 8th December 2013
Bring your own gloves
Contact : Nick Kremer, Pond Warden 01243 823399

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Our next Annual General Meeting is on Tuesday 11th March 2014, 2 p.m. at Aldwick Parish Council Offices.

The Society will need four new Committee members to replace those retiring. If a Committee does not form then the Annual General Meeting will become an Extraordinary General Meeting. The future of the Society is in your hands.

Full details will be given in our next Newsletter.

Autumn Lunch

Our October Autumn Lunch was attended by a few more people than in 2012. It was nice to welcome some new members to the event. The ticket price was increased by £1 over last year to cover the increased cost of fish and potatoes.

Jenny organised a cryptic ‘old money’ quiz which proved to be very challenging. The main talking point was the ‘sick squid’ or was it ‘six quid’?

Thank you to Paul for his fruit dessert and to Jenny and her team for this enjoyable event raising £200 for our funds.

CHRISTMAS FAYRE – SATURDAY 7th December 2013
MAJOR FUND RAISING EVENT AND OPPORTUNITY TO PREPARE FOR CHRISTMAS
OPENS AT 10:00 am AT THE WILLOWHALE COMMUNITY CENTRE
ADMISSION, including tea/coffee and mince pie (while stocks last) only 50p
MAKE A NOTE IN YOUR DIARY – COME ALONG AND GET IN THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

A list of the stalls follows, with information on how to donate items to them. All contributions will be very much appreciated. Please note that, to be sure of obtaining the maximum benefit to the Society, it may sometimes be necessary for the organiser to decide the most appropriate allocation of contributions to stalls or, very occasionally, to hold items over for a subsequent event. Contact telephone numbers are given below.

BOOKS Please donate your unwanted books, provided they are in good condition. Bring them along on the day and take the opportunity to pick up another “good read”.

CONFECTIONERY A range of cakes, mince pies, tarts, jams etc will be on sale. If you wish to contribute, items can be received on the day of the Fayre. Jenny Timoney would be delighted to hear from anyone willing to “batch-bake” for this stall. (Costs can be reimbursed.) Contact Jenny on 01243 822674 to discuss arrangements.

NOVELTIES AND GIFTS A range of gift items will be on sale. Donations of suitable new (including home-made) items will be gratefully received by Meriel Waters on 01243 266525

PLANTS AND FRUIT Seasonal plants and fruit will be on sale at very competitive prices. Limited space means that it will not be possible to accept contributions to this stall. This is always a popular stall and stock sells out quickly so come in good time to avoid disappointment.

RAFFLE The popular grand raffle is bound to be a feast of many excellent prizes, thanks to the generosity of all you kind people who donate them. Thank you in advance for your support. The draw will take place between 11:30 and noon so, if you cannot stay until then, please leave your tickets with a friend rather than at the stall. Contact for any queries before the day, Jenny on 01243 822674

TOMBOLA This stall can only run if we receive sufficient contributions of bottles, tins, toiletries, biscuits, sweets, pens, pencils etc. Please check that none are past their sell-by dates. If you have any contribution that you would like collected please contact Chairman Tony on 01243 827163. In the event of insufficient contributions those received will be allotted to other stalls.

WINE SPINNER A one in eight chance to win a bottle of wine, at only £1 a ticket. Contributions for this stall will be accepted on the day at the stall. And who knows, depending on the generosity of our contributors, there may be the chance to win a bottle of spirits or fortified wine.

CHARITY STALLS As usual, we have offered a limited number of charities the opportunity to set up stalls for their own benefit at our event. On this occasion St Wilfrid’s Hospice and the RNLI will both be represented.

COMMERCIAL STALLS will be Jewellery and handmade cards for all occasion cards.

EVENT ORGANISER Jenny Timoney is the organiser for this event. For any queries not covered in the foregoing paragraphs please contact her on 01243 822674.

CONTACT THE COMMITTEE

Chairman: Tony Smith 01243 827163 Vice Chairman: Paul Bignell 07736 130888
Hon. Secretary: Valerie Smith 01243 827163 Hon Treasurer: John Pressdee 01243 826431
Events Organiser: Jenny Timoney 01243 822674 Membership: Barry Baines 01243 266140

Newsletter 132 September 2013

THE ALDWICK PRESERVATION SOCIETY
http://www.aldwickpreservation.org
Registered Charity No. 295133

Newsletter No. 132 September 2013

Chairman’s message

Update on what has been happening

Nick has drawn up a planting scheme for the new bank and plants are expected to be planted towards the end of September.  If you would like to make a donation towards these plants please contact a member of the committee.  The working parties will continue to the end of the year and will be reviewed in 2014.

Over the summer we had a break-in at our sheds, as a result of this locks and bars have been added.  We plan to purchase security cameras to cover the pond and shed areas to deter vandalism and theft of fish and ducks from the pond.

Applications for grants are being processed and we hope to receive funds from Operation Watershed which WSCC are administering.  We have a positive working relationship with Aldwick Parish Council; they want to ensure that the Duck Pond is maintained as a local amenity.

I remind all members, when planning for 2014, to consider joining the Committee.  Four members will be standing down at the AGM in March 2014.  Now is the opportunity for you to join our Committee and help keep the Duck Pond and surrounding areas of Aldwick in a pleasant state.

Summer Fayre

The morning was dry and there was a promise of a good turnout.  More people attended than last year, which was encouraging.  Nick Gibb opened the Fayre and we thank him once again for his continued support.  Our thanks also to Jenny for all the hard work she puts in to these events and to her band of helpers, all of which made for a successful event.  The home baking and fruit and vegetable stalls were very popular.  We thank also the other stall holders who supported this event.  We thank the people who made generous donations which added to our total of £450.00 raised.

Social Event at the Duck Pond

Unfortunately the weather on the day prevented us from having our usual get-together.  The gallant Committee turned up and met the brave people who came along but unfortunately we could not extend our usual hospitality with tea, coffee and wine.  However, we did recruit five new members, despite the weather, and we welcome them to our Society.

Programme of Events

Autumn Lunch – 12.00 Saturday 19th October.  Our fish and chip Autumn Lunch will be held in the Willowhale Community Centre, doors will open at 1200 (no admission to the hall before this time).  Fish and chips will be served at 12.30, followed by fresh fruit, coffee and biscuits.  We will hold a raffle and would welcome new items for this.
A quiz will also liven up the lunch.
The cost will be £8.50 which is inclusive of lunch, wine, fruit juice, tea or coffee.  Invite your friends and family.  Places will be reserved on a first come first served basis.
Please complete the form below as soon as possible to reserve your place and return to Mrs Jenny Timoney by Friday, 11th October at the latest.  Please note:  no tickets will be issued; your name will be checked at the door when you arrive.  Reserve your place now.

Christmas Fayre – Saturday, 7th December at Willowhale Community Centre.  This is your opportunity to obtain Christmas purchases whilst also giving your support to the Society. We will have the usual varied stalls.  If you think you can contribute items to any of them Jenny Timoney will be pleased to hear from you.  We will also need various items for the home baking stall, if you think you can contribute to this stall please let Jenny know.  Further details will be fiven in the November 2012 Newsletter.

 
APPLICATION FOR PLACES AT THE AUTUMN LUNCH

I wish to reserve ….. places, at £8.50 each, for the APS Autumn Lunch to be held on Saturday 19th October 2013.  I enclose a cheque/cash for the sum of £………. Made payable to “The Aldwick Preservation Society”.

Name: ___________________________________________

Address: _________________________________________________________________________

Postcode: _______________________             Telephone No.: ______________________________

Email address: __________________________________________________
     

 
WORKING PARTY DATES FOR 2013

10.30 am Sunday 13th October
10.30 am Sunday 10th November
10.30 am Sunday 8th December
     

 
TUESDAY 11TH MARCH 2013, ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
2 pm WILLOWHALE CENTRE

Full Agenda and details in January 2014 Newsletter

Please give some thought to joining the Committee     

Contact the Committee

Chairman: Tony Smith 01243 827163    Vice Chairman: Paul Bignell 07736 130888
Hon. Secretary: Valerie Smith 01243 827163   Hon. Treasurer: John Pressdee 01243 826431
Events Organiser: Jenny Timoney 01243 822674
Membership Secretary: Barry Baines 01243 266140

Newsletter May 131

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Newsletter No. 131 May 2013

 

Chairman’s Annual Report for the year 2012

 

An eventful year, the Queen’s Jubilee played a key role.  We were fortunate with a break in the weather for the joint fete with Aldwick Green Conservation Society, which was held on the green.  Our share of the money raised at the event was £680.00, which went into our general funds.

 

Our Coffee Morning, Summer Fayre, Social Event at the Duck Pond, Harvest Lunch and Christmas Fayre raised a total £1,900.  The breakdown of events and donations are shown in the Treasurer’s Report.

 

The day trip to Rochester for the Dicken’s Tour, to mark Charles Dickens bi-centenary, broke even, thanks to members who invited friends.  Support for our events varied considerably and was overall disappointing compared to 2011, with only the Christmas Fayre showing an improvement to funds.

 

Stan Gillett, our Pond Manger, retired in September 2012, after twelve years working on and around the pond.  We extend our thanks to Stan for his work in maintaining the pond and its surrounds for us.  Fortunately Nick Kremer has volunteered to undertake work at the pond, but is unable to give the same commitment as Stan, in terms of his time.

 

To help Nick, a monthly working party will be necessary.  I have investigated hiring a ground maintenance company to undertake some of the work, but have established that our annual income would not cover the costs.  Unfortunately we have had a poor response so far for volunteers, the extreme weather has not helped, and maintenance to the pond continues to be a worry to the Committee.  Extreme weather conditions affected pond levels after torrential rain and caused it to overflow in early June last year.

 

The Committee agreed that repairs needed to be undertaken to the North West bank of the pond.  Between October and December 2012 consultations with three companies were undertaken, to establish costs for the repairs.  As a complete renovation of the pond would be too expensive Committee decided to carry out just the necessary work to maintain it as a recreation pond.  Hamilton Construction Services were engaged to carry out the work, the cost of which is in excess of £20,000, and this is already underway and is expected to take approximately 4 weeks.  Rock filled gabions will be used to rebuild the bank that was eroding and these will form a base for landscaping and planting suitable plants.

 

Membership recruiting activities have resulted in only nine new members joining the Society, as we have lost longer standing members this number has only allowed us to remain static.  As previously reported, this is not healthy for the local interest in the work of the Society.

I have given talks to local groups and societies to help inform people of what we do and, hopefully, attract new members.  I have also attended meetings of the Parish Council, District Council and Count y Council, to keep our Committee informed of any developments.  I believe it will help in our appeals for grants.  £500 was received from Aldwick Parish Council in January 2013, for which we are grateful.

 

I have also applied to Aldwick Parish Council, Arun District Council and West Sussex County Council for funds to help with ongoing expenses for our pond and surrounding area.  I am awaiting responses from them.  This will be essential beyond 2014 if our fund raising events are curtailed.

 

I have had notice from Jenny Timoney that she does not wish to continue in the role of Events Organiser beyond the next AGM, having served the Society for 10 years.  Jenny’s work for the Society in organising fund raising has been vital, the Society would not have been able to undertake its role without the money raised.  This will be a key role to fill in 2014 if the Society is to survive, and not least in maintaining the pond and surrounding area as an amenity for Aldwick.  We need to raise money to enable us to do this because, if we do not, the funds we currently hold will very soon run out.  Applying annually for grants cannot be a reliable source of income for the Society.

 

Organisation changes have been made by our Newsletter Co-ordinators, Mags and Barry Baines.  I thank them for the tremendous effort they continue to put in and to all the people who deliver the Newsletters for us.

 

Future changes to the Committee will mean that we need new members to come forward to join us.  Meriel Waters, a founder member, has given notice that she is unable to continue to serve on the committee.  Meriel has been a committee member since the Society’s inception, her late husband, Peter, was its founder Chairman.  On behalf of the Society we say a big “thank you” to Meriel for her unstinting support.  Barry Baines is now retiring as Honorary Secretary, having served in this role for the past six years.  On behalf of the Society I extend our thanks to him for his valuable service for what has been a period of change, and especially for his support when I took over as Chairman.

 

An active Committee is vital as members retire.  This will be my last year as Chairman, because family commitments will mean that Valerie and I will probably be moving on.  Change is constant and necessary for a vibrant society to survive and move forward.  If we do not make this happen there will be no future for our Society.

 

Anthony P Smith

Chairman

 

Members Elected for the Year 2013

Chairman:  Tony Smith 01243 827163

Vice Chairman: Paul Bignell 07736 130888

Honorary Secretary : Valerie Smith 01243 827163

Honorary Treasurer : John Pressdee 01243 826431

Events Organiser :  Jenny Timoney 01243 822674

Mambership   Barry Baines 01243 266140

Aldwick Pond Update

 

The major work at the pond was completed on 28^th March 2013.  All that remains is for a metal boundary fence to be installed.  Planting of bulbs was undertaken by Paul Bignell at the first stage of landscaping.  We now want to plant suitable flowers and shrubs on the new bank to produce a pleasing aspect.  If you would like to make a donation towards the purchase of plants please contact one of the Committee.

 

The Committee would like to thank the members who have made donations to the cost of repairing the pond bank and also to i4 signs for the printing of banners, posters and high visibility vests, we appreciate their support.

 

The Society has received a grant of £6,000 from West Sussex County Council towards the pond repair costs and we thank them for their generous support.  We are preparing proposals for financial support to Aldwick Parish Council and are hopeful for a favourable response.  Both WSCC and APC are appreciative of the public amenity our Society provides for the local residents.

 

It is your pond and if you would like to help to keep the pond and surrounding area enjoyable come and join our working parties, we would love to see you. 

 

WORKING PARTY DATES FOR 2013
11 am  Sunday 12th May	11 am  Sunday 9th June
11 am  Sunday 14th July	11 am  Sunday 11th August
11 am  Sunday 8th September	11 am  Sunday 13th October
11 am  Sunday 10th November	11 am  Sunday 8th December

Tools and equipment available, bring your own gloves.

Enquiries to: Nick Kremer, Pond Warden  01243 823399

 

 

 

PROGRAMME OF EVENTS

Saturday 15th June – Summer Fayre  10.00 am Willowhale Community Centre Admission, inclusive of coffee or tea, is 50p.  There will be a variety of stalls, plants, summer fruits, home baking, books, jigsaws, wine spinner and grand raffle.  Contributions to the stalls and raffle will be gratefully received but no electrical items, clothes, shoes or jumble please.  In addition there will charity stalls.  This is one of our major fund-raising events for the year.  Please support it and have an enjoyable time.

Saturday 24th August – Social Event at the Duck Pond 11.00 am  This is an open event, invite your friends and neighbours and come and see what has been achieved so far.

Saturday 19th October – Autumn Lunch 12.00 am Willowhale Centre Details to follow.

Saturday 7th December – Christmas Fayre 10.00 am Willowhale Centre Details to follow.

 

Newsletter No.130

Aldwick Preservation Society
http://www.aldwickpreservation.org

Registered Charity No. 295133

NEWSLETTER NO. 130 FEBRUARY 2013

An eventful year with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the London Olympics. It looks like 2013 will be a quieter year. If you have any suggestions for local trips please let the Committee know.

The Society can only continue if the Committee have an active membership. As I have said before a number of members wish to stand down. So please consider joining the Committee and help to keep Aldwick as you want it.

Rebuilding part of the duck pond is expected to take place over January/February. An overhanging tree has been removed as a prelude to the work starting. The duck pond is a recreation pond because of the large number of ducks which are fed regularly and the water source is surface water not spring water. This means we cannot be designated a conservation pond and encourage frogs, toads newts, native fish and other aquatic life. However, we believe the work being undertaken
will improve the appearance of the bank. Longer term we are considering improvements to the whole of the far bank, whilst minimising disturbance to the wildlife.

The Committee

Notice of The Annual General Meeting 2013.

THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING WILL BE HELD AT ALDWICK PARISH COUNCIL OFFICES
ON TUESDAY 12TH MARCH AT 2.00 P.M.

This is notification that the Honorary Secretary, Mr Barry Baines wishes to step down from the Executive Committee at the AGM. We thank Barry for his time in this role. He has expressed a wish to continue on the Committee in Membership. Mrs Valerie Smith wishes to be considered for Honorary Secretary. If you wish to be nominated for any position please note the following and submit your nomination.

Members are asked to submit details, in writing, on matters that they wish to be included on the AGM Agenda. These must be received by the Honorary Secretary, Mr Barry Baines, 4 Willowhale Avenue, Aldwick, PO21 4AY, by no later than Tuesday 5th March 2013. In accordance with the Society’s Constitution all officers and members of the Executive Committee relinquish their office each year but are eligible for re-election, if they so wish, at the AGM. Nominations for Officers and Members of the Committee must be made in writing to the Honorary Secretary by Monday, 25th February 2013. Such nominations must be proposed and seconded by a member of the Society and must include the written consent of the proposed nominee. Any additional guidance on this procedure can be obtained from the Honorary Secretary. Tea, coffee and biscuits will be served before the meeting which will start at 2.30 p.m. Please put this important date in your diary and we look forward to seeing you there. The draft agenda is shown below, subject to change if additional items are submitted in accordance with the Constitution. A final Agenda, together with a copy of the Annual Accounts and the 2012 AGM Minutes will be available at the meeting. PLEASE NOTE CHANGE OF VENUE FOR THIS MEETING.

DRAFT AGENDA

1. Apologies for absence.
2. Minutes of the previous AGM 6th March 2012 and matters arising.
3. Chairman’s Annual Report.
4. Presentation of the Accounts for 2012.
5. Election of Officers to the Executive Committee.
6. Election of Members to the Executive Committee.
7. Any Other Business – any items submitted in accordance with the Constitution, in writing, by 5th March 2013.
8. Date of next meeting.

Christmas Fayre 2012

The Christmas Fayre proved to be very popular with over 190 people attending. This was challenging to our
Tea Team who managed to keep the kettles boiling- many thanks to the team. It was nice to see Nick Gibb supporting us again. We raised £642 for the Society’s funds. Our thanks to Jenny for organising the event once again.

2013 Programme of Future Events for your diary

Annual General Meeting Tuesday 12th March, 2pm Willowhale Centre

Summer Fayre Saturday 15th June 10am. Willowhale Centre
Full details to follow.

Social Event at the Duckpond Saturday 24th August at 11am
Details to follow and, as always, is subject to the weather.

Autumn Lunch Saturday 19th October 12am Willowhale Centre
Details to follow.

Christmas Fayre Saturday 7th December 10am Willowhale Centre
Details to follow.

Contact the Committee

Chairman: Tony Smith 01243 827163 Vice Chairman: Paul Bignell 07736 130888
Hon. Secretary: Barry Baines 01243 266140 Hon. Treasurer: John Pressdee 01243 826431
Events Organiser: Jenny Timoney 01243 822674 Membership: Valerie Smith 01243 827163

Working Parties

Dates for you to join us at the pond.

Friday 10.30am 14 th December 2012

Saturday 10.30am 19th January 2013

Refreshments provided. See you there.

Tony Smith

Newsletter No 129 November 2012

Newsletter No 129 November 2012

 

 

Planning is progressing albeit slowly on issues to do with Aldwick Pond.

 

Nick Kremer has offered his services to maintain the pond edges and the shrubbery around the paths. The Society would like thank Nick for this. However, he will need support from you the members to form a working party to give him a hand, we need more than two who have come forward so far.  A notice will be put up on the board at the duck pond giving date and time when we will meet to undertake any necessary work.  Refreshments will be available.

 

The Committee are unable to organise and run events, attend meetings and support other events and maintain the pond. We need more members to support your Committee. A number of us are looking to step down so the Society needs you now. Please give this serious consideration because with no Committee the Society cannot exist.

 

The repair of the bank is entering the decision phase and it has been decided to keep a recreation duck pond instead of developing a conservation pond.  This was the decision of the Committee. We now have to decide the most cost effective option to retain a pleasant looking environment within a realistic budget for the Society. We have up to £10,000 available for the work.

 

Looking ahead, the Society still has to raise funds for continuing bank repairs and maintenance. This will be even more important if West Sussex County Council decide not to pay us a grant towards the upkeep of the surrounding areas to the pond.  We are in consultation with them and will report on the outcome at a later date.

 

If we do not have working parties and have to pay commercial rates for maintenance we are looking at around £2,500 per annum. The need to raise funds becomes even more imperative. In view of falling support for fund raising events I am sure you can see the concern.

 

Think about joining the Committee and bring your fresh input and help grow your Society. You can speak to anyone on the Committee and full details of how to be nominated will be given in the Notice for the AGM in the next Newsletter.

 

The Committee look forward to seeing you at our final fund raiser of the year the, Christmas Fayre, on Saturday 1^st December from 10am at Willowhale Centre.

 

The Committee

 

Event Reports

 

An eventful year with some of our activities being based around the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, as reported in earlier Newsletters.

 

The visit to Rochester in September for a tour of locations, described by Charles Dickens in his writing, was very enjoyable and our guide Sandi Digby, alias Nancy, made it come alive for all of us. It was a pity we did not make a full coach to celebrate the Bi-Centenary of Charles Dickens.  Everyone who joined us said how enjoyable it was.

 

In October our Autumn Lunch was not as well attended as in previous years, surprising as we held the ticket price to the same as last year and had a speaker, who told us of his experience in visiting the wreck of the Titanic in a miniature submarine. It was very interesting. We raised £102 for our funds half of the amount in 2011.

 

 

 

 

Annual General Meeting

Tuesday 12^th March 2013

2pm Aldwick Parish Council Office

 

Look out for full details to join the Committee and the Agenda

in the January 2013 Newsletter  No 130

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHRISTMAS FAYRE – SATURDAY 1^st December 2012 

MAJOR FUND RAISING EVENT AND OPPORTUNITY TO PREPARE FOR CHRISTMAS

OPENS AT 10:00 am AT THE WILLOWHALE COMMUNITY CENTRE

ADMISSION, including tea/coffee and mince pie (while stocks last) only 50p

MAKE A NOTE IN YOUR DIARY – COME ALONG AND GET IN THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

 

 

 

A list of the stalls follows, with information on how to donate items to them.  All contributions will be very much appreciated.  Please note that, to be sure of obtaining the maximum benefit to the Society, it may sometimes be necessary for the organiser to decide the most appropriate allocation of contributions to stalls or, very occasionally, to hold items over for a subsequent event.  Contact telephone numbers are given below.

 

BOOKS   Please donate your unwanted books, provided they are in good condition.  Bring them along on the day and take the opportunity to pick up another “good read”.

 

CONFECTIONERY  A range of cakes, mince pies, tarts, jams etc will be on sale.  If you wish to contribute, items can be received on the day of the Fayre.  Jenny Timoney would be delighted to hear from anyone willing to “batch-bake” for this stall.  (Costs can be reimbursed.)  Contact Jenny on

01243 822674 to discuss arrangements.

 

NOVELTIES AND GIFTS  A range of gift items will be on sale.  Donations of suitable new (including home-made) items will be gratefully received by Meriel Waters (01243 266525)

 

PLANTS AND FRUIT  Seasonal plants and fruit will be on sale at very competitive prices.  Limited space means that it will not be possible to accept contributions to this stall.  This is always a popular stall and stock sells out quickly so come in good time to avoid disappointment.

 

RAFFLE  The popular grand raffle is bound to be a feast of many excellent prizes, thanks to the generosity of all you kind people who donate them.  Thank you in advance for your support.  The draw will take place between 11:30 and noon  so, if you cannot stay until then, please leave your tickets with a friend rather than at the stall.  Contact for any queries before the day – Jenny (01243 822674)

 

TOMBOLA  This stall can only run if we receive sufficient contributions of bottles, tins, toiletries, biscuits, sweets, pens, pencils etc. Please check that none are past their sell-by dates.  If you have any contribution that you would like collected please contact Chairman Tony on 01243 827163.  In the event of insufficient contributions those received will be allotted to other stalls.

 

WINE SPINNER  A one in eight chance to win a bottle of wine, at only £1 a ticket.  Contributions for this stall will be accepted on the day at the stall.  And who knows, depending on the generosity of our contributors, there may be the chance to win a bottle of spirits or fortified wine.

 

CHARITY STALLS  As usual, we have offered a limited number of charities the opportunity to set up stalls for their own benefit at our event.  On this occasion St Wilfrid’s Hospice and the RNLI will both be represented.

 

COMMERCIAL STALLS will be Jewellery and The Redshanks for all occasion cards.

 

EVENT ORGANISER  Jenny Timoney is the organiser for this event.  For any queries not covered in the foregoing paragraphs please contact her on 01243 822674.

 

CONTACT US

 

Chairman:   Tony Smith 01243 827163        Vice Chairman: Paul Bignell 07736 130888

Hon. Secretary: Barry Baines 01243 266140        Hon Treasurer:  John Pressdee 01243 826431

Events Organiser: Jenny Timoney 01243 822674         Membership:  Valerie Smith 01243 827163

Newsletter No. 128 September 2012

Newsletter No. 128   September 2012

 

Since our last Newsletter a lot has happened.  The successful Diamond Jubilee, Andy Murray reached the Wimbledon final, Bradley Wiggins won the Tour de France and Team GB excelled at the 30^th Olympiad in London (and Andy Murray won a Wimbledon final!) what an event.

 

Less pleasing was the incessant rain and its long-term effect on Aldwick and the surrounding area.  It highlighted the need to ensure our water dispersal infrastructure needs to be up to standard by the responsible organisations  now and in the future.  Future developments in and around Aldwick will need to be monitored to ensure the present character is maintained.

 

As a resident you can now have your say, through the public consultation on the draft Aldwick Parish Design Statement prepared by Aldwick Parish Council.  This is now available from the Aldwick Parish Council Offices at Willowhale or on-line.  Your comments can be sent to Aldwick Parish Council by the 1^st October 2012 for their consideration.  The approved Design Statement then feeds into Arun District Council and finally to West Sussex County Council.

 

The Joint Diamond Jubilee Fete in June, with the Aldwick Green Conservation Society, was successful and is reported in detail along with our other Summer Events.

 

Stan Gillett has given notice to resign as Pond Manager at the end of September, after twelve years in this vital role for the Society.  We owe Stan our gratitude for his work in maintaining the area around the pond and for keeping the ducks fed.  We are fortunate that Mo Slater, who has been feeding the ducks during Stan’s absence, has agreed to take this over full-time.  On behalf of the Society, thank you Mo for taking on this role.

 

We aim to set up a working party and if you would like to be part of this group we would be pleased to hear from you.  The group will work to their own timetable and a range of tools and implements are available for their use.  To discuss this opportunity further please contact either Tony Smith  01243 827163, Paul Bignell  07736 13088 or Barry Baines 01243 266140

 

Tony Smith, Chairman

 

Event Reports

Coffee Morning, Wednesday 23^rd May. The unexpected sunshine should have spurred members but we had a very poor turn out, fewer than last year.  Those who did attend had an enjoyable time, raising £60.00 for the Society funds.  Thank you to everyone who attended and Jenny and her helpers.  Many thanks once again to Jack Nicholls for hosting this event.

 

 

 

Diamond Jubilee Fete, Saturday 9^th June on Aldwick Green with Aldwick Green Conservation Society.  It was with some degree of trepidation that we gathered on the Friday evening before the event to decide go/no go.  We decided to go for it.

 

Saturday arrived, no rain but a strong wind.  It brightened up as the morning went on and as the stalls went up an increasing level of optimism prevailed.  The Fete was opened by our local MP Nick Gibb, who proved to be a dab hand with a megaphone.  Our thanks to Nick for supporting us during what was a busy time for him whilst supporting flood victims.

 

The Miller Men jazz band proved to be very popular and were appreciated by those enjoying their refreshments.

 

All the stalls and charities taking part were pleased with the results and the numbers of people visiting them.  The people who decided to venture out after all the previous rain-filled days ensured we had a successful event.  The raffle was a big hit and many people stayed on for the draw.  Our thanks to Ted Elliot, for so ably announcing the raffle and wine spinner winners, another megaphone star.

 

Our membership stall, which showed some landmarks and history of Aldwick, attracted a lot of interest and new members.  The tie-in with Dr. Barnardo’s, through Margaret House and its history, with its connection to the duck pond and the Society, generated a lot of interest.

 

Congratulations to the members of both societies involved in setting up, running and taking down stalls, to everyone who baked cakes, served refreshments, all contributors and everyone who ran stalls, for what was a very successful occasion.  Special thanks to Paul Bignell for his magnificent plant stall which sold out and contributed £100 to the Aldwick Preservation Society.

 

We also thank Aldwick Parish Council for their financial support which contributed towards the expenses for the event which raised £680 for the Society’s funds.

 

Summer Fayre, Saturday 14^th July.  Our regular Summer Fayre was popular but attracted less people than previously which was very disappointing.  Thanks again to Nick Gibb for attending and setting the ball rolling for us.  Surprise guest, Dean Nicholas, held us all spellbound once again with his mind reading skills.  Our thanks to Jenny for her organisation and to all her helpers who were once again up to the mark.  Our supporters, with their various stalls, added their usual enthusiasm for this event which raised £410                for our funds.  Thank you to the people who gave generous donations which is included in the above total.

 

 

 

 

Social Event, Saturday 18^th August.  The weather was kind to us again as we gathered to exchange ideas and discuss future activities.  With Stan’s departure at the ends of September, it was an opportunity to talk about the management of the duck pond as a team.  Thank you to Jenny for her usual excellent organisation, also Pam on teas and Sylvia for running the raffle.  The membership stall again attracted the attention of younger members of our community.  The members who attended enjoyed the event and the raffle and donations contributed £80 to Society funds.

Programme of Events

Tuesday, 11^th September, Bi-centenary of Charles Dickens.  We are planning a day-trip to the historic town of Rochester (approx. journey time

1 hour 30 mins. – with a comfort stop).  Places are still available so please contact the Chairman a.s.a.p. if you wish to join us.  Tickets £24 each.

 

Autumn Lunch – Saturday 13^th October.  Our fish and chip Autumn Lunch will be held in the Willowhale Community Centre, doors will open at 1200 (no admission to the hall before this time).  Fish and chips will be served at 12.30, followed by fresh fruit, coffee and biscuits.  We will have a raffle and would welcome new items for this. In this Titanic anniversary year we shall have a speaker, who won a competition to go to the sea bed to see the wreck and will talk about his experience.  This promises to be a not to be missed event. Invite your friends and family, tickets will be on a first come first served basis.

 

Places at the event, which is inclusive of lunch, wine, fruit juice, tea or coffee will cost £7.50, which has been held at the same price as last year.  Please complete the form below as soon as possible to reserve your place and return it to Mrs Jenny Timoney by Friday 5^th October at the latest.  Please note that no tickets will be issued.  Reserve your place a.s.a.p. and your name will be checked off at the door when you arrive.

 

Christmas Fayre – Saturday, 1^st December at Willowhale Community Centre  This is your opportunity to obtain Christmas purchases whilst also giving your support to the Society.  The usual various stalls, if you think you can contribute items to any of them Jenny Timoney will be pleased to hear from you.  We will also need various items for the home baking stall, if you think you can contribute to this stall please let Jenny know.  Further details will be given in the November 2012 Newsletter.

 

 

 

TUESDAY 12^TH MARCH 2013, ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

2 pm WILLOWHALE CENTRE

 

Full Agenda and details in January 2013 Newsletter

………………………………………………………………………………………….

APPLICATION FOR PLACES AT THE AUTUMN LUNCH

I wish to reserve ……. places, at £7.50 each, for the APS Autumn Lunch to be held on Saturday 13^th October 2012.  I enclose a cheque/cash for the sum of £………  made payable to “The Aldwick Preservation Society”.

 

Name: ________________________________

Address: ___________________________________________________

Post Code: _______________     Telephone No. ____________________

 

Application forms should be sent to:   Mrs Jenny Timoney                        7 Aldwick Place, Aldwick, PO21 4AD by Friday 5^th October at the latest

…………………………………………………………………………………………..

 

 

 

 

 

Contact the Committee

Chairman: Tony Smith 01243 827163   Vice Chairman: Paul Bignell 07736 130888

Hon. Secretary: Barry Baines 01243 266140  Hon. Treasurer: John Pressdee

01243 826431  Events Organiser: Jenny Timoney 01243 822674

Membership: Valerie Smith 01243 827163

Bi-Centenary Dickens Trip 11th Septmeber 2012

 

 

 

ALDWICK PRESERVATION SOCIETY

Registered Charity No. 295133

www.aldwickpreservation.org

 

DICKENS BI-CENTENARY

TRIP TO ROCHESTER

 

TUESDAY 11^TH SEPTEMBER 2012

 

IN THIS DICKENS BI-CENTENARY YEAR WE ARE PLANNING A TRIP TO ROCHESTER.

 

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO JOIN US PLEASE TELEPHONE CHAIRMAN TONY SMITH ON :

                                01243 827163

 

THE COST OF THE TRIP WILL BE £24.00 WHICH INCLUDES A DICKENS GUIDED TOUR AROUND ROCHESTER (WHICH WILL TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT THE PLACES THAT INSPIRED  DICKENS’ LOCATIONS IN HIS WRITING), AND A TIP FOR THE DRIVER.

 

THE COACH WILL DEPART FROM AVISFORD PARK, ROSE GREEN, AT 9.00am AND LEAVE ROCHESTER AT 3.30pm.

 

TONY SMITH, CHAIRMAN

4 ROCHESTER WAY

ALDWICK

WEST SUSSEX

PO21 3RD