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Nailsworth 

 News

February 2012

No. 118


A free monthly community paper 
for the parish of Nailsworth, 
available in colour on our website 
www.nailsworthnews.org.uk. 

Supporting NailsworthÕs Youth Club

Nailsworth is very fortunate 
in having an excellent (and 
award-winning) Youth Club 
that benefits our young people, 
their families and the whole 
community. However, for more 
than a year now, it has struggled 
to survive financially since the 
grant which was its main source 
of funding was stopped. All this makes the theft of an entire row of lead 
from the roof of their building over Christmas a particularly mean and 
selfish act. What a contrast to the wonderful charity event held at The 
Passage to India in November, which raised £1,700 to offset the ClubÕs 
annual insurance premium of £2,500. Now that was true seasonal spirit.

Unfortunately, it is not economic for the club to make an insurance 
claim to repair the damaged roof, so the full cost of approximately 
£1,000 has to be found from their already stretched funds. The 
Nailsworth News is therefore appealing to the town to put its hands in 
its pockets and help, for the benefit of our young people. Can you make 
a donation towards the repairs? If so, send your cheque (made out 
to Nailsworth Youth Club) to the club at Northfield Rd, Forest Green, 
Nailsworth, GL6 0LZ or put it through their post box. Even a few 
pounds would help. 

Thank you.


Could you share 
editing this paper 
with 
others?

With 5 months 
to go before the 
current Editor 
leaves the NN this summer, we 
are making some progress in 
finding a replacement, but we 
arenÕt yet there. Two people 
are interested in job-sharing 
- but we still need one more 
volunteer. Could it be you? See 
page 10 for more details. 


Ramping it up!

James, Nigel, Dom, 
Tom, Will, Kye, 
George and Arron 
are pictured showing 
their support for the 
new skateboard ramp 
installed recently in 
the King George V 
playing field. The 
new ramp is steeper 
than the original, 
which means that 
height and speed 
can be more easily 
achieved. It enables 
more children (and 
adults!) to perfect 
their skills, whether 
on skateboards or 
bikes, and to hit the 
heights. 



 Nailsworthy 

Free monthly 
newspaper for 
Nailsworth parish

Published by the Nailsworth 
News team.

Photographer: Martin Stone. 
Production: Leopard Press, 
Layout: NN. 

Editor: Jo Lloyd 833092, 
editor@nailsworthnews.org.uk 

or c/o And Clothes, Market 
Street

Asst. & Sports Editor: Martin 
Stone 833132, martinstone@
XLN.co.uk

Business Editor: Bill 
Affleck 832619, business@
nailsworthnews.org.uk

Advertising: Chris Tetley 
833587, nnadverts@yahoo.co.uk

Hard copy and payment: c/o 
Shiny Goodness, Fountain St.

Distribution: Don Luke 832812, 
distribution@nailsworthnews.
org.uk

WhatÕs On: Tina Ginn 835295, 
whatson@nailsworthnews.org.uk

Postal subscriptions at £6 per 
year: Joan Rowbotham 833110

Advertising rates: £5 + £12 per 
unit of 60 x 30 mm (w x h):

¥ Larger than 3 units only if 
space permits

¥ £1 discount per unit for 
three insertions if booked 
and paid in advance

¥ £5 surcharge for a specific 
page

Space is limited and Nailsworth 
advertisers take priority. 
Payment in advance please: 
cheques to Nailsworth News.

Deadline for editorial, 
advertising, copy and payment: 
15th of the month (there is no 
paper in January or August).

Mike Harvey

A true son of Nailsworth, Mike has lived his whole life in Park Road. 
As a lad, he remembers the narrow access at the Church Street end, 
with the Police Station on the corner with its gaol on the ground floor 
and MagistrateÕs Court on the first floor. He attended Nailsworth C of 
E School, The British (Boys) School in Northfield Road and Tetbury 
Grammar School. He started his working life as an apprentice journeyman 
electrician with Ron Woodman in Fountain Street (now Active Gear). At 
this time he was a member of Nailsworth Boys Club in Chestnut Hill, run 
by Arthur and Bert Humphries, and the Amberley Scout Group based at 
the Quarry, Culver Hill. He played cricket for Nailsworth Sports Club who 
played at The Ridings, off Wood Lane.

At 18 he was called up for National Service; with RAF Bomber Command, he served in Malta 
during the Suez Crisis. When he returned to Nailsworth to complete his apprenticeship, he began 
his courtship with Meirwen who he had known from childhood. They married at St GeorgeÕs 
Church, had three daughters Caroline, Sally and Jane, and now have grand and great-grandchildren 
and remain strongly family-orientated.

It was in the mid 60s that he set up his own business from home, before moving into the 
ex Bailey Furniture Shop in Fountain Street (now Peter Joy, Estate Agents). Here he traded in 
everything electrical, added a laundrette Ð and later introduced frozen food on the first floor.

When their daughters attended school, Mike and Meirwen were enthusiastic in supporting 
the Northfield Road and Highwood School, serving on PTA Committees. From this enlightening 
experience, Mike decided to become further involved in education. He spent three years 
inauguration at Longfords School before being appointed to the Electrical Department at 
Gloucestershire College of Arts & Technology.

Always a strong supporter of all things Nailsworth, Mike was a Committee member of the 
Jeanagers Club in Northfield Road. For a time he was Chairman of the Nailsworth Chamber of 
Trade, when he attempted to re-start the annual Nailsworth Carnival in the Playing Fields. He was 
also a prime mover in promoting illuminated Christmas tree decorations on shop premises and in 
the town throughout the festive season.

A countryman and man of many parts, Mike leads walks around Nailsworth for a variety 
of groups. He is a member of the Cotswold Bowls Club and is a keen gardener and Motor 
Caravanner. 

Mike Brinkworth


A local history slant

From the early days of this paper, Mike Brinkworth has been been writing his monthly column 
to celebrate residents who have made a significant contribution to Nailsworth life. This year, we 
are changing the format slightly. There will still be the regular type of Nailsworthy, but we want 
to take the opportunity also to feature local people who have memories of living in the town 
in the 20s, 30s and 40s and can give us a valuable historical perspective on what life was like 
here then. So be ready to learn more about our town earlier last century, as well as continuing 
to receive more recent coverage. And if you know of anyone who has a story to tell from those 
long-ago days, do please get in touch to nominate him or her. 

 
City & Guilds trained Mark Kelly 
Plumbing 
& Bathrooms 
Local references available 
01453 836096 or 07834 318459 
Views expressed in this paper are those of the author and not necessarily those of the Nailsworth News team. We reserve the right to edit or omit any material 
submitted for publication. No liability is accepted for loss or damage arising from any omission of copy or advertising. Material submitted for publication will only 
be returned if accompanied by a SAE. Nailsworth News is published and distributed entirely by volunteers, with production costs defrayed by advertising. More 
volunteers are always welcome - if you would like to join the team, please get in touch with the Editor. 

2



From Nailsworth Town Council

Town MayorÕs report 

February is here, spring is just around 
the corner and plants which are usually 
dormant at this time of year are bursting 
into life. 

So whatÕs about to happen in 
Nailsworth this spring?

The library has reverted to its original 
opening hours (see page 6). I encourage as 
many people as possible to respond to the 
new consultation document from the County Council on the 
future of libraries in Gloucestershire.

A group of volunteers known as ÔThe ScrubbersÕ has 
been working on the ÔWÕ to improve the view of our town 
from the hill. We are having a last push during February 
before the birds start to nest, so if you have a couple of 
hours to spare on Tuesday afternoons we would be grateful 
for your help. See the article from Paul Carter on page 11.

As Mayor, I have been invited to speak on Stroud FM 
(107.9) on several occasions. A number of local people 
are involved in running the station. I understand that in 
the near future it is hoped that the power of the signal 
can be improved so that it can be received in more parts 
of Nailsworth. If you are currently unable to receive the 
signal, Stroud FM can be picked up online.

Recently, I visited the new Antiques Market held at the 
Town Hall on the first Friday in the month. It was very 
interesting and it provides another attraction in our town. 
Well done to Larry Dyer for organising it.

Three concerns have been brought to my attention over 
recent months The first is with regard to Tinkley Farm. 
Although it is not in our parish, much of the traffic from 
the site does travel through Nailsworth. We, along with 
other local parishes, are in discussion with Stroud District 
Council as to whether the site has planning permission for 
the work being carried out there.

The second concern is with regard to Stroud District 
CouncilÕs proposal to move the bus station from its present 
location to the site between Spring Hill and the entrance to 
DayÕs Mill. Because of the unresolved issues regarding car 
parking on that area, the Town Council, when approached, 
will tread very carefully I can assure you.

Finally, regarding the empty Police Station in Old 
Market, the Town Council is working with Gloucestershire 
Market Towns Forum to produce a business plan with a 
view to purchasing the building and moving some of the 
Town Council services into it.

Steve Robinson, 834270 and please note new email 
address stephen.robinson@nailsworthtowncouncil.gov.uk 


Households compete to 
cut energy bills

Two teams of Nailsworth Town 
Councillors and Friends are half 
way through the European Energy 
Neighbourhood competition. This 
challenges households to cut their energy 
bills without having to make any major 
investment or lifestyle changes. Our aim 
is to cut our bills by at least 9%, which 
for an average home could mean annual 
savings of around £100. I was doing well 
until Christmas visitors upped our need 
for heating and cups of tea! It is much 
the same for all team members, so we 
are having another look at what we can 
achieve.

We are being supported by Severn 
Wye Energy Agency, a local sustainable 
energy charity. Their main website www.
energyneighbourhoods.org.uk contains 
lots of Ôhot tipsÕ and information, plus an 
easy to use Home Energy Check that 
shows how to get your bills down. You 
can also get a copy of this checklist at the 
Town Information Centre and Library. I 
have found it very useful; for example did 
you know that even turned off plugs left in 
the socket continue to use energy?

At the start of the competition we 
were promised we would be leading a new 
energy saving lifestyle, and I think it is 
beginning to happen. Though to be frank, I 
donÕt think we are going to win!

Sally Thorpe, Deputy Mayor

Resurfacing the 'W'

Advance warning: the Nailsworth 
'W' will be closed from 12th to 16th 
March to allow for resurfacing works 
by Gloucestershire Highways. They 
will be going from the cattle grid 
at the bottom to the first left hand 
band, and then patching from the Box 
turning to the Half Way House. We'll 
have to put up with a bit of disruption, 
but it is surely worth it. For any 
further information contact Chris 
Riley at Gloucestershire Highways on 
08000 514514.

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3



Local affairs

Car Parking - an update

Most of you will be aware that Stroud District Council, at 
a Cabinet Meeting on December 15th approved a much 
revised proposal on car park charges. We have been told 
that rates in Stonehouse and Painswick will be lowered and 
the proposal to bring other parishes into the Ôpay to parkÕ fold 
abandoned. So, we retain free parking in Nailsworth Ð at least 
for the time being; there will be a review of the situation in 
eighteen months time. 

The phraseology of the minutes of the Cabinet Meeting (posted 
on SDC web-site) is rather less reassuring: 

16) A decision on introducing charges in Dursley, Nailsworth and 
Wotton-under-Edge is deferred for 18 months for the reasons set out in 
paragraphs 45 to 47 of this report.

Paragraphs 45-47 also make it clear that SDC have not budged 
from their original position, only deferred implementation.

45) In view of the uncertain economic situation and deteriorating 
employment position, (which has worsened as the review has 
progressed) and the potential impact on the town centres concerned, 
it is recommended that the Council does not implement charges in 
Dursley, Nailsworth and Wotton-under-Edge at the current time.

46) The changes recommended in this report are expected to help 
address some of the longstanding parking problems in these towns. 
However, it is clear from schemes that have already been made 
available to traders at a low charge in Wotton-under-Edge and 
Nailsworth, that additional parking is unlikely to be used whilst more 
convenient, free parking, with limited enforcement remains available.

47) Because of the need to discourage motorists who are parking long 
stay in short stay spaces (which are vital to a townÕs ability to trade) 
it is, therefore, recommended that the Council reconsiders introducing 
charges in 18 months time, when it will also be able to assess the 
impact of the changes proposed. 

Only in the last paragraph of the minutes is there any indication 
of (some) further consultation on the question: 

50) The process to change the order (with the exception of changes 
to charges already in place) also provides a further period for any 
objections to be made.

When, in our last issue, we reported the meeting between NPAG 
and SDC officers, we noted the conspicuous lack of quantitative 
data (at least in the public arena) against which SDCÕs proposals 
could be tested. It is therefore a matter of significant regret that, 
amongst the nine ÔResolvedÕ items from the Cabinet Meeting 
there is nothing that addresses this important deficiency.

So, what are the changes Ð as they affect Nailsworth?

34) Changes to the time limits in the 4 hour car park are proposed, 
as this is extremely difficult to enforce and is often used by people 
parking all day. Despite the Town CouncilÕs objections to permits, it is 
proposed that a limited number of permits should be made available on 
the Town Hall/Comrades Club car park for residents and/or traders, 
again people are parking all day here and it is difficult to enforce 
without charges.

35) These changes should encourage traders to use the alternative 
areas of long stay on the periphery of the town that are available to 
them and help alleviate some residentsÕ difficulties with parking.

36) Officers will also review residentsÕ parking schemes with the 
County Council.

37) Nailsworth Bus Station Ð see the article at the foot of the page, 
where this paragraph is quoted.

And, more generally:

42) Disc parking: One proposal that has been suggested to help with 
enforcement and, thereby, turnover has been the introduction of disc 
parking schemes. These have been available for a number of years and 
work by the motorists showing the time of arrival on a dial which is 
then displayed in their car. Research needs to be undertaken into the 
benefits and drawbacks of such schemes.

43) Electric car charging points: The Council has been approached 
by Ecotricity who may be interested in providing charging points 
for electric cars both on and off-street. Again, further work needs 
to be undertaken to establish whether this could be implemented, 
successfully.

44) Shop local: In light of the feedback from traders as regards 
reduced footfall and the health of our town centres, the Council may 
wish to provide financial support to the main towns to encourage 
residents to shop local. (ÔShop LocalÕ support was not included in 
the ÔResolvedÕ items). 

In summary, the situation is better characterised as a stay of 
execution than a victory. It will all come back in 2013 and weÕll 
need to be prepared to man the barricades once more! 
BA

Bus Station redesign

Among the ÔResolvedÕ Items at SDCÕs Cabinet Meeting on 
December 15th was Ôthe scheme to redesign Nailsworth bus 
station is [to be] implemented in 2012/13, subject to the necessary 
consultations and consents.Õ The minutes of the meeting expand: 
ÔNailsworth Bus Station Ð there is a long standing capital budget 
to undertake works to reduce the conflicts between buses and 
pedestrian and cars in this location. It is recommended that 
additional funding is allocated to undertake this work in 2012/13 
and that the bus station is relocated. This will also reduce an area 
of conflict with traffic in the town at the entrance to Old Market 
from Spring Hill.Õ 

We want to make three points:

Is this really needed?

Long ago, there were concerns about buses stopping nose-in 
to an area where pedestrians might congregate, with the risk 
of mounting the pavement and 
crushing people. Later, the key 
risk was thought to be of a bus 
backing and injuring someone 
who (ignoring the warning lights 
and horn) was walking or driving 
behind it. Now we are told about 
Ôconflicts between buses and 
pedestrians and carsÕ. However, 
many years have passed without 
any incidents involving loss of life, injury or vehicle damage. 
Unless SDC can produce a convincing case for their proposals, 
we wonder whether, in these times of financial pressure, the 
£25,000 would be better spent on something else. ÔIf it ainÕt 
broke, why fix it?Õ

What is the status of the area being considered for conversion 
to bus use?

SDC's initial scheme (not yet approved by NTC, which intends 
to give it close scrutiny) involves creating 3 new bus bays in the 
parking area between Spring Hill and Day's Mill. However, it is 
believed that the more than 20 spaces in that area currently used 
by cars were gifted to the town in 1938 for use as free parking, 
as confirmed by a minute from a contemporary council meeting 
(although the deed itself canÕt currently be found.). This would 
make seeking to change their use a serious, even a legal matter. 

Will there be an impact analysis before settling on an option?

Any scheme that would affect parking availability - as this one is 
likely to - gets into the same territory 
as the recent proposals for parking 
charges; it needs to be backed up 
by research on the potential impact 
on the town centre as a whole and 
the knock-on effect on residents' 
parking. SDC has yet to convince us 
that they will be doing that kind of 
study in our town. 


4



Local affairs

Nailsworth Health Partnership - 2012

The Nailsworth Health Partnership is planning a busy 
programme this year, and it looks as though there will be 
something for everyone. Below is advance notice of what is in 
store so far:

¥ Last yearÕs talks on health and well-being were so 
successful and well attended that there will be more on the 
same lines - so watch this space.

¥ Those of you who enjoyed the walking festival will be 
pleased to know that there will be a second one from 5th to 
13th May, and it is hoped that many more people take part this 
time around. The programme is more ambitious than last year, 
with more walks and a wider range of themes. One walk will 
even have a geocaching theme (that is, a treasure hunt using 
GPS clues) so keep your eyes open for details of that soon. 

¥ The Partnership has been working hard on a directory of 
local practitioners and health activities for the town, and the 
good news is that it is nearly finished.

¥ The NHP website www.nailsworthhealthpartnership.org is 
also nearly ready to go live.

¥ NHP is making a bid for lottery funding. The theme is 
ÔDevelopment and consolidation of NHPÕ from the Awards for 
All scheme.

¥ Other ideas in the pipeline include classes for parents with 
young children that include free child care, intergenerational 
physical activities and a community defibrillator (cPAD) to 
be located in central Nailsworth.

The Patient Participation Group (PPG) was established in 
July last year and is the latest sub-group of the NHP. It is open to 
any patient registered at Prices Mill Surgery. Kate Kay has been 
elected as Chair. So far they have been concentrating on the annual 
patient survey which all GP practices have to do, but they hope in 
the coming year to focus on getting views on primary health care 
matters from harder to reach groups such as those who are young, 
elderly or housebound.

 Nick Peters has moved to Whitminster, so Jo Hofman has been 
elected as Vice Chair in his place. Marilyn Miles was re-elected as 
Chair and Paul Young as treasurer. Duncan Mann will continue as 
secretary until a new person is elected. 

If you would like to know more about the NHP, contact 
Marilyn Miles on 832974 or email mbm@ankerbold.co.uk. 

Nailsworth police news

As a result of information received from the 
community, we have recently been able to 
remove some potentially dangerous vehicles 
from the road. Those without a license cannot 
get insurance and therefore do not bother with 
getting an MOT or tax for their vehicle. Not 
only does this cost the rest of us money, but 
it puts us at risk from unqualified drivers and/
or untested vehicles. When we receive this 
kind of information we make all the necessary 
checks and do the utmost to remove such 
vehicles from the highway. 

Levels of reported anti-social behaviour in 
the area remain low, but unfortunately ever so 
often - as happened recently - we have a blip. 
Those involved in that have been issued with 
antisocial behaviour warnings and a wider 
group of youngsters have been invited to a 
custody awareness day at Stroud Police 
Station to taste what it is like to be arrested 
and processed through the system. We are 
happy to have received good support from 
parents on this, and we hope that this input 
will have a positive effect on the behaviour 
of the youngsters by helping them to see 
the potential consequences of their actions.

Our colleagues at the Youth Support 
Service in Stroud, with our help, 
have identified a small group of local 
youngsters who they feel would benefit 
from some special small group input. This 
is being supplied by them and facilitated 
by Nailsworth Youth Club, who are 
allowing use of their premises free of 
charge.

We can be contacted on 101, the 
24-hour number for non-emergency 
crime and anti-social behaviour issues 
as well as general enquiries. From 
outside Gloucestershire, or where 101 is 
unobtainable, please ring 01452 728199.

PC Matthews, beat officer for 
Nailsworth

Mobile police station schedule

PCSO Paul Bowman and his vehicle will be in the car 
park of Nailsworth's ex Police Station at the following 
dates and times:

¥ February - 5th, 15th, 25th 13.30-14.15

¥ March - 6th, 21st 31st 13.30-14.15

The email for the mobile police station is paul.
bowman@gloucestershire.police.uk. Or contact Paul 
on 07734 068276.


Have your say on SDC's Local Plan

Stroud District Council has announced the dates of public consultation events for 
its forthcoming Local Plan. Known as the Core Strategy, this will identify key 
locations in the district for a planned 3,200 new homes and also encourage up to 
6,400 jobs in the district. There will be six drop-in exhibitions where you can look 
at the plans and ask questions, and Display Boards are also being made available. 
For more details, as well as dates and venues, please see the Planning section of 
SDC's website under ÔConsultationsÕ. 

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Local affairs / Community

Longer library hours - but for how long?

It appears that GCC have been badly advised. The injunction which 
they had previously believed did not restrict their plans to drastically 
reduce opening hours in what would become ÔLink librariesÕ does after 
all apply to libraries like NailsworthÕs. Because of that, our library 
has had 35 hours opening per week again from Monday 16th January 
(Mon, Wed, Fri, 9-6 Tues, Sat. 9-1, Thurs closed). Of course, GCC 
have problems with engaging staff hot on the heels of their redundancy 
programme, and also we all need to realise that the financial pressures 
which led to the original action plan for library savings remain. 
Additional GCC Library staff are only being employed on short 
contracts lasting until 31st March. 

The County Council has been working with the body which deals 
with discrimination, with a view to reinstating the planned (reduced) 
opening hours as soon as possible. It has now issued a proposal 
document and will be consulting for six weeks from the end of January 
2012. Under the proposals, Link Libraries would become Partnership 
Libraries with either 21 or 12 core opening hours; Nailsworth would 
be a 12-hour library Ôwith the option of community support to extend 
opening hoursÕ. The basis of the 21 or 12 hour core pattern is not 
completely clear (and may be challenged during the consultation 
period); nor is the meaning of Ôcommunity supportÕ. 

So we should not be rejoicing at what seems on the face of it to be 
a reprieve for our library; sadly, the current increased opening hours 
are likely to be only temporary. Meanwhile, Anne Riley and Andrew 
Fripp are organising further training sessions for volunteers, as so far 
they have only trained those helping on a Wednesday afternoon. 

 BA

Building Society team fundraises

Once again, staff from the local Coventry Building Society 
have been busy raising funds, this time for both Children 
in Need and their branch charity the Alzheimer's Society 
Stroud District. The Annual Big Breakfast, held at Egypt 
Mill Hotel, saw 50 
people (including local 
businesses, customers, 
staff and even Darth 
Vader!) enjoy a very 
hearty full English 
breakfast which was 
once again served by 
pupils from Thomas 
Keble School. £488 
was raised, so Jackie 
and her staff want to 
say a big thank you 
to all who attended, 
and also to the local 
businesses who 
donated some fantastic raffle prizes.

The bring and buy book sale in the branch continues 
to be extremely popular. During 2011, it meant that £570 
was donated to the Alzheimer's Society Stroud District - so 
please keep taking the books in to help the team raise more 
funds for this worthy cause.


The Royal British Legion

The Royal British Legion (Forest Green/Nailsworth Branch) 
holds its meetings on the third Thursday of each month at the 
Social Club in Brewery Lane. The branch is keen to encourage 
new members to its ranks - currently there are 17, of whom 
12 meet regularly. So if you wish to enjoy the advantages of 
cheap beer, access to Legion welfare facilities and that age old 
military characteristic of being able to take the mickey out of 
anyone in the group, then this is the place for you!

The branch is currently on the look-out for a volunteer to act as an organiser 
for the Poppy Appeal in the run up to Remembrance weekend later in the year. 
Anyone who would like to know more about the branch or the Royal British 
Legion should contact Tim 
Godden on 835019 or Ruth 
Aldridge on 836439.

Help to support other families

Readers may already know about Home-Start 
Stroud and Dursley, which recruits and trains 
local people to visit and support parents with 
young children at home. The charity is active in 
Nailsworth, and the next local training course 
will run from 21st February. It is for one day a 
week for ten weeks, and is accredited through 
the Open College Network. No qualifications 
are needed to get involved, but volunteers must 
be parents themselves. For more information, 
or to express an interest, call 759911, email 
enquirieshomestartsd@gmail.com or visit 
www.homestartsd.org.


Swan lake...

Those of you who regularly use the 
Nailsworth end of the cycle track will 
notice that the pair of swans have 
left the lakes. One of them decided 
to make a stop over in Watledge on 
departure! My thanks to the local 
Animal Rescue service, who quickly 
came to take it away for a check over. 
If OK, it will be released on the South 
Cerney lakes. Let's hope that it finds its 
Nailsworth partner. 

 Richard Pond

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Community

Glendower in the 
spotlight again

For the second time in two years, Stroud 
District Council is seeking a compulsory 
purchase order for Glendower, the home 
of the late poet WH Davies. They are 
unhappy at what they say is the slow pace 
of repairs to the listed building. The vacant 
property has had some work done, but the 
Council wants it restored to a state where it can be lived in again. Norman 
Phillips, nephew of the poet, has said that he intends to move back in when it 
is habitable.

Local interest group The Friends of Glendower have been assisting 
with the restoration of the building and garden, making slow but steady 
progress. They are now in discussion with the Council to see if compulsory 
purchase can be averted; as well as detailing the work that has already been 
carried out, they have pointed out that a recent professional structural survey 
showed that the building was not at substantial risk. To quote a letter written 
by Tony Burton, founder of the Friends, ÔI am sure that we would all like to 
see speedier progress, but we have to live with the fact of finding experienced 
workmen to carry out sensitive work at an affordable cost.Õ This group has 
done excellent work, for which Nailsworth residents and admirers of the poet 
have cause to be grateful. It is to be hoped that SDC will listen carefully to 
what they have to say before taking any steps. 


New ÔI have tinnitusÕ 
support group

Do you have tinnitus? Patrick Coyle from the 
Nailsworth Computer Shop is a long term sufferer 
of this illness, which affects millions of people 
in the country. He is going to sponsor a support 
group to hold meetings in Nailsworth in order to 
help people with ideas and provide support in the 
area. The new group can be contacted by email on 
info@ihavetinnitus.co.uk, and there is a webpage 
hosted on Pat's Nailsworth site - find it at http://
www.ihavetinnitus.co.uk/. A new facebook page 
to support the group, at http://www.facebook.com/
groups/370325582984858/, had 52 members in less 
than a day! 

(Tinnitus - from the Latin tinnitus or ÔringingÕ - is 
a condition characterized by ringing, swishing, or 
other noises that appear to be originating in the ear 
or head - from Medical News Today.)

Local 
Hero 

This month, 
we want to 
thank Jon 
Burfitt 
(pictured 
right), 
founder 
of the 
Nailsworth 
Parking Residents Action Group, 
for all he has done to help the town 
respond to Stroud District CouncilÕs 
proposals for charging to park in 
Nailsworth. To assist fellow residents, 
Jon runs the group website, lobbies, 
gathers evidence, attends meetings, 
puts forward views and much more. 
As an example of how effective he is, 
when the SDC Cabinet were discussing 
responses to the parking charge 
scheme, the response from residents 
was particularly commented on. Your 
hard work and expertise are much 
appreciated, Jon.


Nigglesworth 

A reader has written to complain about ÔAÕ boards 
on Nailsworth's pavements. She says, 'First there 
was one, then two, now every shop seems to 
have them, and some more than one. They are 
pointless, unsightly and obstructive. Take them 
away please!Õ


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Community

Nailsworth Notes

Tales from the TIC

First, an apology.

I am not a regular. That, of course, refers to my status as a 
volunteer at the Nailsworth Town Information Centre (or TIC 
as we call it). Most of my colleagues help on a certain day of the 
week, am or pm, but I have so far resisted that regular commitment. 
Instead, I fill up gaps for holidays and emergencies. The following 
is therefore based on my personal experiences and a few anecdotes 
from others. Ask any TIC Volunteer and they will all have their own 
stories to tell.

I have found that visitors to the TIC seem to fall into one of 
three categories: 

¥ Tourists - who, like migratory birds, tend not to be around in 
the winter. They are here for a short time and want information 
on local attractions, places to eat or B&Bs.

¥ Visitors who are hoping to move to the area (Nailsworth is a 
popular place, and who can be surprised at that?). They want 
information on local walks, services in the town, schools, 
churches and societies.

¥ Finally, the locals who, like me, have lived for years (if not 
all their lives) in this beautiful place. They usually want bus 
timetables, details of coach outings and cinema times. They 
also pick up copies of this paper, and they enjoy a good gossip 
in the warm.

We do get some odd questions. For instance, ÔHow do you spell 
curtsey?Õ, ÔWhere can we go whale watching?Õ, and ÔWhere are the 
black and white villages round here?Õ If it is local knowledge we 
can usually help, and with our new computer we can find out most 
things. But what do you say to a Scottish couple who want to know 
about Cotswold dry-stone walling, the Severn Bore, the history of 
the wool trade, Woodchester Mansion, water-powered mills, royal 
residences, the old railway station etc? That pair even offered to 
pay someone to give them all this information! Perhaps they were 
writing a book on the area; I recommended that they read one.

We get visitors from all parts of the UK and indeed from all 
parts of the world. For example:

¥ A Japanese girl who wanted to tour the area by public transport 
(that was a forlorn hope, but someone from a B&B we had 
helped her to find came into town to pick her up).

¥ A French Canadian with very little English Ð and my French is 
of the schoolgirl variety. However we did manage to sort out 
his problems.

¥ In August, when the NN has a break, a German wanting to 
advertise, who didnÕt (or wouldnÕt) believe that there couldnÕt 
be a special edition published just for him.

We have met many cheerful Australians. One couple had seen 
the poster for the play ÔTom JonesÕ which was the husbandÕs own 
name. He had not read the book, but knew the singer. He said, with 
great regret, that no girls had ever thrown their knickers at him!

My best memory is of trying to direct a visitor to a concert in 
Minchinhampton when there were road works on almost every 
route. Eventually I told her, ÔThat sounds like a good concert. Meet 
me at the bus station. IÕll drive you there and come with you.Õ It was 
a good concert too.

And that brings me 
finally to Ôthe leafletsÕ. I sit 
at the desk, gaze at them 
in their racks and am very 
tempted by what is on 
offer. I resist until someone 
comes in and asks for the 
coach holiday brochure 
- or a programme for the 
Subscription Rooms - or 
something for the children 
to do in the holidays... 
Then I end up taking home 
a handful for myself. Last 
week alone I had nine, 
ranging from paintballing 
to sacred music. Because 
of this, helping in the 
TIC has cost me a pretty penny over the last couple of years, but 
I donÕt begrudge any of it. I have holidayed in Guernsey, gone on 
steam train excursions, visited local cinemas and theatres, taken my 
grandchildren rock climbing and been to local mills. 

I could go on and on, boring for England about the TIC and 
this town that it supports. No wonder Nailsworth has become an 
attractive tourist destination. We volunteers perhaps help to enhance 
a visitorÕs time here... because we can.

Jenny Barnett


Above, some of the huge range of 
leaflets on offer at the TIC

New grants for cold homes

Did you know that Stroud District Council has been finalising plans with British Gas to offer funding to help households to 
improve energy efficiency and reduce their heating bills? This is for houses which are difficult to insulate because they have 
solid, rather than cavity walls, and is intended for private householders on benefits and low incomes. The aim is to offer grants 
and be able to top them up with loans to help households who do not qualify for the full amount. Level of funding will depend 
upon the property size and heating type. SDC will be launching the scheme in early 2012 and is keen to hear from anyone who 
may be interested. Call the energy officer on 754445 or email energy@stroud.gov.uk for more information.


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Community

Nailsworth & Forest Green Scout Group 

History

This scout group has existed in various forms for more than a 
century:

¥ Early 1900Õs - the first ever scout group was started in 
Nailsworth, led by the manager of Lloyds Bank, Mr Snell. 

¥ 1916 - the group was disbanded because of WWI. 

¥ 1919 to 1922 - another Nailsworth scout group met in the 
Vicarage stables. 

¥ 1953 - the Rev. Kingchick (scout leader from a previous 
parish) started a troop in Forest Green. 

¥ Since then, there has been a merger with Amberley scout 
group, although cub packs continued in Nailsworth and 
Forest Green until they all moved to the current premises in 
Nailsworth.

¥ 1979 - the newly named ÔNailsworth & Forest Green Scout 
GroupÕ was officially registered, with neckerchief colours 
combining red from the original troop with grey from the 
Amberley Group.

The building

The current Nailsworth scout headquarters served originally as a 
washhouse for local cottages, with the adjoining building being 
the explosives store for the many quarries in the district. Its varied 
history since includes being a Conservative club, a Labour club, a 
British Legion centre, and a club for Nailsworth girls. Immediately 
before the scout group occupation, it was a stationery store for the 
local newsagent. Being so old, the building is desperately in need 
of urgent repairs, particularly new windows, doors and heating. 
Without help from the local community the Nailsworth Scout 
Group would not be able to continue; it is always looking for ideas 
for fund-raising and help with ongoing building maintenance. 

The scouts today

The Group offers local children the opportunity to learn skills 
through a variety of badge work, hiking, expeditions, leadership 
training and Duke of Edinburgh awards. Above all, it is about 
them having fun, and also building confidence and self-esteem in a 
friendly environment, which in turn helps them in their adult life. 
There are vacancies for boys and girls in all sections in the group: 
beavers (6-8), cubs (8-10), scouts (10-14) and leaders/ helpers. 

Contact details

If anyone is interested in joining the group or in helping out in any 
other way such as leadership, occasional helpers, fund-raising or 
repairs, please contact Mrs G Cooke, email cooke.36@tiscali.
co.uk or phone 07779 498883. She will pass on your details.


Above: the beaver section halloween party

Are you living with osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis does not just cause problems for the elderly. 
More and more young people are at risk, due to the huge 
numbers who diet excessively. However, there is local advice 
and support on hand. The Five Valleys Osteoporosis Group 
holds informal meetings from time to time to help with 
information and literature for people of all ages.The next 
meeting is coming up shortly, when members from Nailsworth 
and the surrounding area will be at The Old Nelson, Stratford 
Road, Stroud from 11am to 1.30pm on Tuesday 13th March. 
Join them for coffee and a chat, and stay for lunch if you wish. 
They look forward to seeing you there. For more information, 
ring Kathleen on 832138, or ring 834865.

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Community


New arrival

Congratulations to Liam and 
Jemma Kilyon on the birth 
of baby Lauren in the early 
hours of New YearÕs Day in 
Stroud. Lauren was the first 
2012 baby in the Stroud area! 
We are particularly pleased 
because Jemma has also 
just joined the NN team as 
Features Editor - more about 
her in the next issue. 
MS


Editing the 
Nailsworth News

So, where are we on the quest 
for a new Editor?

Well, no-one has yet come 
forward to take on the whole 
job - that is, putting the paper together every month 
for 10 months of the year (July and December are 
our holiday months.) On the other hand, we have two 
volunteers who are interested in doing 1/3 of the annual 
editions each - IF we can find a third. 

What would that involve? In terms of the time 
involved, it is a bit over a full working week pretty 
solidly every month (say, about 40 hours), and the 
occasional other hour here and there keeping things 
turning over. There is also a monthly team meeting. 
Much of it is done by email - the people of Nailsworth 
are wonderfully supportive in terms of submitting 
material, it pours in to the mailbox, you really wouldn't 
need to be out there looking for stories. The NN would 
provide the hardware and software, as well as any 
training and lots of support. You would need to be able 
to edit 3 to 4 editions every year. 

What wouldn't it involve? Well, you wouldn't have 
to take the photographs, prepare the adverts, put together 
the What's On section, write the business pieces, 
organise the deliveries, manage the finances, look after 
the website, or do the proof-reading; these jobs are all 
handled by other members of the team (whose skills and 
dedication are very much appreciated.) 

Interested? If so, please get in touch on 833092; we 
would love to hear from you.


Have you lost a hanging 
basket? 

We had one left on our step just 
before Christmas (pictured). If 
you recognise it, let me know and 
come and reclaim it!

Jonathan Duckworth, 

web@nailsworthnews.org.uk


Newmarket Fete - an appeal 
for help

Those people at Newmarket really know 
how to do fetes! December saw another 
excellent one, and the organisers send 
a huge thank you to The Silver Band 
for their sterling performance playing 
Christmas carols to get everyone in the 
seasonal mood. There were around 12 
stalls, local 
crafts mainly, 
and the kids 
made £90 on 
mince pie sales. 
Our photo shows two of the revellers.

The organisers are renewing their appeal 
to anyone who can take on running the 
May Fete this year. It usually happens 
on the Sunday before the second bank 
holiday in May, but this year there are 
around 5 key people wanting to take a 
break. Can anyone help? If so, please 
contact Jo or Fiona at newmarketfete@
aol.com for more information or with 
ideas. 

MJ 
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Out and about

Sarah trains for London Marathon

Sarah Clatworthy, co-owner of The Olive Tree Restaurant, is preparing for the challenge of a lifetime Ð to 
run the Virgin London Marathon 2012. On Sunday 22nd April, Sarah (pictured right) will run the gruelling 
26.2 mile route through the famous streets of London in aid of a local charity, The Meningitis Trust.

She will be training hard for the next 3 months and is asking Nailsworth News readers to support her 
every step of the way. Sarah says, ÔRunning 26.2 miles is a really tough challenge and I am not na•ve as to 
how hard it will be and how fit I need to become to complete the course. But I am on the way, and I will give 
it everything IÕve got. With great backing from family, friends and supporters in the town, I will do my best to 
make them feel very proud on the day. IÕm determined to get the Meningitis Trust the money they need in their 
fight against this devastating disease that affects thousands of people every day.Õ

Sarah would like to say a big thank you to all those who have pledged money already, but there is still 
some way to go until she reaches her target of £1,600. If you wish to support Sarah and The Meningitis Trust, 
you can fill out a form at The Olive Tree or go online to www.justgiving.com/sarahclatworthy.


Big cats

It is not often that Nailsworth features in the national news, and perhaps 
that is just as well for our peace of mind. However, the 'pure white big 
cat the size of an Alsatian seen roaming across a Nailsworth street, that has 
further fuelled fears that a large predatory feline is on the prowl in the Five 
Valleys' (SN&J) has been an exception, having made the pages of both the 
Independent and the Guardian as well as going almost viral on the internet. 

It was hard to know how the Nailsworth News should cover this story. 
Our original plan was that Martin Stone (the NN photographer) should 
spend a few months roughing it in likely wild spots ready for a sighting, 
equipped with freeze-dried food, tent and cameras, but he seemed strangely 
reluctant - particularly over the Christmas season. So as an alternative, 
should our civic leaders be inviting David Attenborough and his team to 
take up residence in our town for a spell? What better way for him to follow 
up ÔFrozen PlanetÕ than with a series called ÔFeral Nailsworth?Õ And just 
think of the tourist potential...

More seriously, we look forward to the results of DNA tests currently 
being carried out on the the half-eaten carcass of a roe deer from 
Woodchester Park, to see if there is indeed evidence of a local wild cat.

Local care provider 
supports Nailsworth/
Zimbabwe link 

Nailsworth company Corinium Care has spent 
the last year raising money and equipment 
for Homes in Zimbabwe (HIZ), the largest 
provider of food for the elderly in the African 
country. Together, the staff, clients and carers 
at Corinium have raised a staggering £6,000 
for HIZ by pumping iron at the gym, pedalling 
miles through the Cotswolds and baking cakes. 
A truck load of wheelchairs, walking frames 
and hearing aids was sent to the Edith Duly 
Nursing Home in Bulawayo, where such 
equipment is like gold dust. ÔWeÕre very grateful 
that everyone responded so generously,Õ said 
Camilla Miles, Managing Director of the George 
Street organisation, which provides 24-hour 
live-in care in their own homes for the 
frail and elderly. Camilla recently went to 
Zimbabwe on a fact-finding mission, where 
she experienced bureaucracy but had an 
immensely warm welcome from staff there.

Anyone who wants to support HIZ 
can do so at www.justgiving.com/
Coriniumcare.

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12



 

Arts and crafts in Nailsworth

The Stroud Valleys have long been a haven for creative artists of all 
kinds, and here in Nailsworth we are particularly rich in such skilled 
people. Whatever the branch of arts and crafts, whether it is traditional 
or bang up to date, and whatever the medium being used, it is likely that 
someone in our town is involved in it. Today we feature a number of 
those talented people and their work. We know that there are many more 
of you out there, but unfortunately our space is limited.

Mark Lowe

Lowe's Gallery is run by Mark 
Lowe in Bridge Street and 
continues to be a fine venue for 
bespoke framing, watercolours, 
oils and prints of all kinds, as well 
as offering a wonderful selection 
of objets dÕart and furniture from 
around the world. New in soon 
will be handmade recycled Spanish 
cotton rugs - they were so popular 
last time that another order has 
been made. Call in and see what 
Mark has to offer in the spacious 
and inviting surroundings, both 
as a local craftsman who works in 
wood and as a vendor of quality 
ware. Ring 835246 for enquiries, 
and the gallery is open from 10am, 
six days a week for you to visit. 
See also the photo below.


Christian Corgier

Christian, pictured on the right, owns Painted 
Ceilings and is a specialist in Ôtrompe lÕoeilÕ and 
murals on canvas. He has been living in town with 
his family for 10 years, and feels that this is the 
perfect place to continue his career. His studio is 
based in the Green Cube studio behind BaileyÕs 
newsagents in Old Market. For 30 years, Christian 
has been a master of his craft in producing painted 
ceilings and murals (see the picture below for 
an example of his work in progress.). Some are 
totally new, but he also undertakes restorative work 
in some of the finest houses in the country and 
recently in The Ritz in London. 

Christian describes himself as Ôan artisan who 
deals with anything to do with paintings and art in 
general.Õ He produces scaled, colour presentations 
of the work to be undertaken, including visits from 
start through to completion. 
Any size of work is undertaken, 
for any property, whether it be 
a private house, commercial 
location or other buildings. 
His website www.painted-
ceilings.com shows dozens of 
spectacular examples of his 
work - take a look. His contact 
details are 07930 392803, email 
art@corgier.freeserve.co.uk.


Paul Bradley

Studio Works Gallery has been in Nailsworth at the top of Fountain Street for what 
seems years, and Paul Bradley (pictured right) is the mastermind and skilled artist 
behind it. Paul has been a potter for over 35 years, having trained at the prestigious 
Harrow School of Art before moving to set up his business in Stroud and then here in 
Nailsworth 12 years ago. He has a huge knowledge of pots of all kinds, throughout 
history. Everything he markets is made himself on site, and he specialises in domestic 
wares and individual sculptural pieces which are both etched and worked by hand.

ÔGet close-up, handle and experienceÕ is part of the game. ÔIt is my individual work, 
my taste and my styleÕ, Pauls says, but it is certainly a style that is simple and eye-
catching as well as useful. There is also a selection of other works by well-known potters 
and some artworks for sale. Studio Works Gallery is open six days a week from 10am - 
4pm, and there are prices to suit everyone. The phone number is 833733.


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Chris Norman

Chris has been living in Nailsworth since 1979, but has a lifetime's experience as a creative 
artist. In 1998 he started Chris Norman Arts after leaving full time teaching. He works in 
a whole range of media - watercolour, pen and ink, pastel and acrylic, to name but a few. 
There is a strong landscape focus in much of what he does, but his subjects go wider and 
his influences are eclectic. If you visit his website at http://chrisnormanarts.com/ you 
will be able to get some idea of the sheer range of 
talents possessed by this versatile man. He markets 
his work directly, will take commissions, and has a 
particularly strong background in tutoring.

Since 2005, Chris has been a member of a print-
making co-operative based at Griffin Mill, where he 
works with groups of students (he is pictured right 
helping one) and also develops his own prints. If 
you are interested in his work, his printmaking demonstrations, classes or private tuition, 
please email him on chris@chrisnormanarts.com.


The Cotswold Craftsmen

Cotswold Craftsmen 
Gallery in Market Street is 
managed by Hazel Morris 
on behalf of its members. It 
supports the development and 
skills of individual makers 
working in wood, metal, 
textiles, ceramics, glass, 
jewellery, basket making, 
mosaics, watercolours and 
much more. 

The organisation has been 
running for over 40 years and 
the gallery exhibits and sells 
great goods for all styles and 
prices, so there is something 
to suit everyone. It is also 
staffed by the members / makers themselves, so you can 
meet them and discuss their work. The photos on the right 
and below give examples of the work of just two of the 
members, but there are many more.

The front window gives some idea of the range and 
quality of goods on offer, but you do need to go inside to get 
a real idea of the wonderful craftsmanship there. The gallery 
rotates its work every month, so there is always something 
new. Downstairs, there is a space for non-members to exhibit 
their wares at very reasonable rates on a monthly basis. 

If you want to become a member or enquire more about 
Cotswold Craftsmen, 
please contact Hazel 
on 07961 914957, 
haze.morris@virgin.
net (website www.
cotswoldcraftsmen.
org) or call in 
Tuesday to Saturday 
10 - 5pm and there 
will be someone to 
point you in the right 
direction.

Lucy Birtles

ÔHand building pots which 
evolve as families as I make 
them, taking shape as almost 
human forms...Õ

Lucy Birtles (shown right) 
has had a lifelong interest 
in the arts, and in particular 
sculpture, pottery and 
ceramics. Lucy has been an 
extensive traveller over the 
years, but Nailsworth seems 
to have proved the exception 
to that. In 1985 she bought 
her present home here and worked as a volunteer at Ruskin 
Mill. However, the pull of her artistic side was so strong 
that in the 90s she completed a BA in 3D Design (Ceramics) 
at the University of the West of England. Her experience 
since then has included working in the USA for a potter with 
a wood-firing kiln (which inspired her to build and equip 
her own Nailsworth workshop) and a period as a pottery 
technician in Stroud. 

LucyÕs heart is in sculptural forms, and these are realised 
in her ceramics. She works independently to produce and 
sell (from home, where she has her workshop) a range 
of handbuilt sculptural vases and bowls in porcelain and 
stoneware, and also wheel thrown domestic pottery. Some 
are for indoor use, and the picture also shows examples of 
her work intended for outdoor spaces. Her work can be seen 
on her website www.lucybirtles.co.uk, at the annual Open 
Studios 
events, and at 
exhibitions. 
She also 
shows it at 
Ruskin Mill. 
Lucy can be 
contacted at 
lucybirtles@
googlemail.
com.


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15



Faith and service

Everything I learned 
about life came from 
The SimpsonsÉ

One of my favourite TV families is The 
Simpsons. In the virtual world I use 
a quote from Marge at the top of my blog, 
ÔSwim, swim, swim, thought the whaleÕ; 
this is from MargeÕs attempt at writing a 
book of romantic fiction. Week by week 
the Simpson family explore all facets of 
family life, from the fantastic (Homer 
becoming an astronaut) to the mundane, 
(BartÕs continual collection of ÔfsÕ on his 
school report). 

The programme has caused a lot of 
controversy in its 20 year history and has 
upset several religious groups. On a recent 
Ôbehind the scenesÕ programme, one of 
the showÕs producers, told of an incident 
in the UK in 2007. The Simpsons Movie 
was being promoted and the marketing 
people decided to draw a cartoon of Homer 
in his underwear and eating a doughnut, 
alongside the famous chalk drawn Giant of 
Cerne Abbas in Dorset. The cartoon was 
designed to wash away in the rain and so 
was never meant to be anything other than 
a promotional event, yet a group of Pagans 
complained that their site was being defiled 
by this image. The producer was quite 
pleased as he felt this meant that they (the 
makers of The Simpsons) had upset every 
single religious group over time!

In spite of this, The Simpsons have an 
enduring and endearing charm. Despite 
their difficulties and perhaps (because of) 
their dysfunction, they still love each other. 
They strive to be ÔgoodÕ even though they 
often fail and they show an openness and 
tolerance to others that is exemplary. Good 
lessons indeed.

Reverend Sian Collins

Renewing your faith

The plant kindom must be very confused at the moment! At 
the beginning of January I saw marigolds still blooming 
in a garden. Daffodils are now out in sheltered places, and my 
rose bushes have shoots growing as well as some unpruned 
buds still thinking about flowering. Frosts have arrived to put 
everything in its place, and I am sure that nature's equilibrium 
will be restored.

Is it ever too late to get right with God - to restore our 
relationship with Him, even if we have spent a lifetime 
avoiding His call? I donÕt think so. I believe that God is 
always overjoyed to hear from anyone who has been out of contact, and will 
embrace all who turn or return to Him, as any loving father would do if a long lost 
child were to get in touch out of the blue. But it is so much better to keep in regular 
contact, as in any relationship if we love someone.

The Bishop of Gloucester, Rt. Revd. Michael Perham, would like everyone to 
look afresh at Baptism / Christening and also Confirmation, which is what we need to 
do when we become adults and want to confirm our belief in God. The New Year is a 
good time to think anew about such things. I am always happy to talk to anyone who 
is a bit confused about the Christian faith and not sure how to move forwards. Many 
peopleÕs spirits are raised as they attend church over the Christmas period; hearing 
about the birth of Jesus and singing some familiar carols has them leaving church 
feeling uplifted. Isn't it a good idea to try to feel like that for the rest of the year?

Reverend Stephen Early


News from Woodchester Priory

Echoes from the past leave us with a churchyard full of different varieties 
of snowdrops, thanks to former parishioners Brigadier and Mrs. Mathias, 
founders of the Giant Snowdrop Co. in the 40Õs, whose grave is in front of 
the south porch. The recent anniversary of the death of Marie McLoughlan, 
whose funeral I attended here some years ago, reminds us that she founded 
Stroud Civic Society in 1966, when demolition of historic buildings was 
endemic in the guise of slum clearance (Stroud and Nailsworth Societies 
amalgamated several years back.) Also buried here are Father Tom Curtis-Hayward and 
Sister Wulstan from the Immaculate Conception in Stroud. 

Former members of our choir have joined together with those from St. Joseph's, 
Stonehouse to learn new Mass settings which are direct translations from the original 
Latin. We hope to sing them at Easter. 

The future of the convent is still causing concern. A small group will be meeting at 
St. MaryÕs Hill House, 8th Feb. 7.30pm, to discuss ideas for turning it into some kind of 
Christian community using the land and buildings. Exploring the options will be good, 
but as always, the problem will be funding. Anyone interested is welcome to attend. 

Jenny Bailey


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16



 

Schools

Nailsworth CE Primary School

There have been big changes happening in reading at Nailsworth 
Primary school recently, and the children are reaping the benefits. 

We have just purchased a new Oxford Reading Tree reading 
scheme for the infants, funded by an event that took place during 
the summer. Every child gathered sponsorship for either cycling 
or scootering around the field or playground on a given day, which 
raised over £1,000! The PTFA also contributed, and some funds 
were further raised during our summer fete. This was all then match 
funded by the government, enabling the school to bin many outdated, 
dog-eared copies of books and buy shiny new ones for both guided 
and home reading, fully complementing Letters and Sounds phonics 
teaching. ÔOur sonÕs reading has taken off again, he now wants to 
read!Õ (a Year 3 parent).

The school also held a Scholastic Book Fair during two parentsÕ 
evenings. Scholastic promised to give us half the amount we raised in 
money for books for the school. The target was £400 but the school 
made £600, so now we have £300 to spend on more books for the 
recently refurbished Junior library which is complete with comfy sofa 
(thank you to the Dutton family) and colourful posters. Children in 
Yr3 and Yr4 have been writing book reviews about their favourite 
reads, and a Recommended Reads display has been created in the 
Junior library, profiling their ideas, which are also on the school 
website http://nailsworthschool.org.uk/. 

We are collecting books for our Author Boxes, which allow 
children to enjoy an authorÕs entire book collection. Here are some of 
our favourite authors: Cressida Cowell, Andy Stanton, Roald Dahl, 
Astrid Lundgren and Lucy Daniels. Go to our website to find out 
about others that we are interested in. If you have any books by these 
gathering dust and wish to give them to a new home where they will 
be read a lot, please drop them into the school or let us know and we 
will arrange to fetch them. Many thanks. 

Mrs Armstrong, Year 3, 832382

(Mrs Armstrong also sent the NN a wonderful illustrated review of 
Andy StantonÕs ÔYouÕre a Bad Man Mr. Gum!Õ The review is by pupils 
Tamas Tomcsanyi and Eliot Kayani, but unfortunately we donÕt 
have enough space to print it. However, it begins, ÔThis book is about 
an old burping, slurping man named Mr Gum. He is defending his 
garden which is the prettiest, greeniest, 
floweriest, gardeniest garden in the whole 
of Lamonic Bibber and he has to protect 
it for the evil fairy. And Jake the dog was 
trying to roll and poo in it...Õ )

Horsley CE Primary School

2011 ended on 
a high here at 
Horsley with our first 
major production 
in our new school 
hall. TomÕs Cat, 
performed by Class 
3 and 4, combined 
drama, dance and 
music, and made full 
use of the fantastic 
stage lighting in 
the hall (see picture 
on right). It was a 
resounding success 
and the perfect way 
to end the busy 
Autumn term.

2012 is going to be a big year nationally with the 
Diamond Jubilee and the Olympics, and Horsley will 
be joining in as well as celebrating the centenary of the 
opening of the Infant part of the school. This term is 
also full of super activities planned by the children, a 
whole school reading project, and a focus on India with 
our newly twinned school there.

As part of the Global Schools Partnership 
programme run by the British Council, we have teamed 
up with 10 other Gloucestershire primary schools to 
link with schools in India. All the Indian schools are 
from the Nagpur area in the province of Maharashtra, in 
the centre of India, and are part of the Meghe group of 
schools. OurÕs is School of Scholars Bhandara, with a 
roll of around 280 children aged from 2. to 12 years. 

Both our junior classes are studying the topic of 
India this term, including taking part in workshops 
and activities within school and a visit for Class 4 to a 
Hindu Temple. The infant classes will be incorporating 
some aspects in their learning too. The whole school 
will be taking part in India week (commencing 12th 
March), planned to tie in with Commonwealth Day.

Martin Fry, Headteacher, 833625


St. DominicÕs Primary School 

After all the excitement of Christmas, it is 
somehow really comforting to get back into a 
normal routine. This is an exciting term, with Spring 
just around the corner.

Since October we have had a focus on teaching 
French in 
the infant 
classes 
(previously only 
teaching it to the 
junior children). To 
help us with this, we 
are holding our first whole school French day in February 
and we are hoping that this will become a regular event. 
The intention is that all the children dress up and spend 
the day immersed in French culture and as much language 
as possible Ð I suspect we may have a lot of striped tee 
shirts on show! It amazes me that the infant children pick 
up the language so quickly and gain so much enjoyment 
from it. Hopefully, they will be able to start secondary 
school with a real advantage. 

This term we will also be planning for World Book 
day in March, when we are aiming to invite an author into school 
to work with the children and highlight the pleasure of reading.

I would like to thank all those people involved in the 
organisation of the Town Carol Concert held at St GeorgeÕs. As 
always, it was a delightful occasion, and 
we feel privileged to have been involved. 
I hope everyone had a peaceful Christmas 
and I would like to wish you all a happy 
New Year. I look forward to sharing school 
highlights during 2012.

Margaret Smith, Headteacher, 
832682


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17



Minding our own business

About that sign...

Some excitement has been generated 
by a sign at the entrance to the 
Nailsworth Mills car park off George 
Street. As you can see from our picture, 
it introduces us to the ÔGeorge Street 
Shopping CentreÕ and its shoppersÕ 
car park together with a list of shops, 
topped by Morrisons. This might be 
seen as implying that those are the 
(only) shops for which the car parking 
facility is available. That is not the 
case. Anyone can park there and do 
business in the Optical Shop, Clock 
Tower Clothing, Pulp, the HSBC 
Bank, The Olive Tree, or wherever. 
Remember though that car parking 
is limited to two hours, and, if you 
overstay, thereÕs a good chance John 
will catch youÉ BA


Other business news

Larry and AndyÕs Vintage and Collectables Fair continues 
to flourish, and the January event in the Town Hall was again 
very well attended. A measure of its success is the number of 
out-of-town dealers bidding for stalls. Andy tells us that he and 
Larry would like to see more locals and townspeople setting up 
stalls. If you think you might be interested, go along and see 
what itÕs all about. The next Fair is (or, unfortunately, when you 
get to read this, was) on 3rd February Ð but thereÕll be another 
on March 2nd (see ÔWhatÕs OnÕ at the back of this paper). 
Alternatively, why not drop in on Andy in AndyÕs Attic in 
Market Street and get briefed (and tempted!)

The structural work at the entrance to Market Street (The 
Market Street Triangle) is now complete and is looking 
good with one of the CouncilÕs new Nailsworth area signs 
prominently displayed. The next stage is the planting and there 
are then plans afoot for a re-launch of Market Street as one of 
the key shopping areas in Nailsworth. We wanted to bring you 
a photo of the newly restored public area, but have decided to 
wait until Spring has come and there is greenery to be seen, 
rather than show it at this cold bleak time of year. 

The Nailsworth Kebab & Pizza House, next to the Passage 
to India in Old Market, is up and running. ItÕs a take-away but 
a great addition to NailsworthÕs slate of people catering for the 
inner man (or woman).

Less good news about Five Valleys clothing and outdoor 
equipment shop in Fountain Street, whose reopening we 
reported in the last issue. There are now ÔTo LetÕ signs in the 
empty windows.

If youÕve seen (or missed) the early episodes of The Fabulous 
Baker Brothers on Channel 4 (Wednesday evenings, 8.30) you 
can still catch the last few of the 6-part series featuring our local 
master baker and TV star Tom Herbert (of Hobbs Bakery) and 
his brother Henry. Mouth-wateringÉ

BA

Made in Nailsworth?

We are pleased to bring you news of a new business being 
started by Claire Stapleton. Readers may remember that until 
recently she was our Green Editor. She will be launching her 
new venture at the Nailsworth Farmers Market in February. 
The concept behind it is handmade gifts and other similar 
objects. Many individuals make very attractive items but donÕt 
have the time or sufficient stock to market them alone, so the 
concept is that they will be able to sell them through this stall 
on a commission basis. Claire will also be offering her own 
handcrafted items. 
The business 
thinking is similar 
to the ÔMade In 
StroudÕ model. 
We wish her all 
the best; do look 
out for her stall at 
the next Farmer's 
Market. 


ÔNiaÕ dance in Nailsworth

Do you know about about Nia dance? 
If you have never 
come across it, we 
are told that it is an 
exhilarating, low impact, easy to follow 
cardiovascular dance-movement form, 
done barefoot to soul-stirring music, and 
is the first ever holistic Ôfusion-fitnessÕ 
programme. This sounds like something 
we could all benefit from! Now it is 
coming to Nailsworth. Yael Hochenberg 
(pictured below), licensed Nia teacher 
(white belt), recently began running 
classes on Wednesdays at Sawyer Hall, 
Christchurch at 1.30 pm Nailsworth, 
beginning 18th 
January. It costs £7 
per drop-in, or £30 
for a series of 5. 
Contact Yael to find 
out more, on 07545 
372077, yael@
niayael.co.uk or 
visit http://www.
nianow.com/yael-
hochenberg. 


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18



Nailsworth News party


Party time

The annual Nailsworth News Party was held again 
at Egypt Mill this January. 100 guests came to wine 
and dine for an occasion which marks our gratitude to 
all those willing volunteers who distribute this paper 
through rain and shine. Many thanks - and also to 
Egypt Mill for their excellent buffet and hosting. Below are photos of 
some of the many greatly valued volunteers. MS


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monthly drop-in surgeries at the Arkell Centre in 
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If you are looking for advice on benefits, housing, 
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you are very welcome to drop in to any of our surgeries 
in 2012.Open 9am to 12 noon 
Surgery dates for 2012 
19



Green Matters

Minch & Horsley do it Ð can we?

Having attended superb horticultural produce shows last year, some 
people were wondering whether this tradition could be revived 
in Nailsworth. We have allotments, the Nailsworth Gardening 
Society, GoGrow Nailsworth promoting food sustainability, 
entrants in Stroud Valley's ÔEdible GardensÕ weekend, Ruskin Mill's 
horticultural students, and last but not least many growers beavering 
away in their gardens - unsung heroes all.

There is rapidly growing interest in doing what we can to feed 
ourselves more cheaply and healthily. It would be great to celebrate 
and share the fruit of our labours, not to mention the fun to be had by 
seeing the wonkiest carrot, biggest onion, etc. In Horsley, the winner 
of Ôthe longest runner beanÕ could only enter his second longest - his 
wife having cooked the longest by mistake!

Are there people out there who would help organise a day to 
celebrate growing and producing things? The trophies still exist, and 
hopefully there is expertise to draw on from about 15 years ago when 
the show was last held. If we started now, we could add a Produce 
Show to Nailsworth's vibrant community events calendar. If you'd 
like to be involved please contact Jeff and Liz Green, 836910, lg@
phonecoop.coop.

Fruit trees at Norton Wood

Go GrowÕs Norton Wood Orchard Group will soon be 
planting six more new fruit 
trees in the restored orchard 
at Norton Wood. Following 
last yearÕs successful planting 
of ten apples, pears, damsons 
and quince, the group has 
found more space among the 
older fruit trees. Preparation 
and planting will take place 
on Sunday 12th February 
and Sunday 11th March from 
2pm till 4pm and everyone 
is welcome to join in. For 
more information contact 
Katherine Kearns on 834530, 
katherinekearns@yahoo.com.


Local writer, and film showing

A chance to meet Martin Spice, author of ÔSpade, Seed & 
SupperÕ (featured in December's Nailsworth News), followed 
by a showing of the comedy film ÔGrow Your OwnÕ, will 
launch this year's growing season. This is a definite date for 
enthusiasts of the edible garden tendency, and will be held on 
the evening of March 10th in the Arkell Centre. There will be 
more details in the next issue, or phone 839107 or 836910.

Nailsworth birdlife

In the past, Hugh and Carolyn Christie have sent us photos of 
the Nailsworth dipper. It seems that the bird has been a bit more 
elusive recently when they have been 
out and about with their cameras, but 
instead they have sent photos of a 
heron seen at the same spot (behind the 
bus station by the looks of it.) Seeing 
a heron around our ponds and stream 
is fairly easy, but photographing it is a 
much more difficult endeavour, as all 
those of us who have tried will know - 
so they are to be congratulated on these 
images.


Clearing the ÔWÕ

The Common Scrubbers will continue scrub clearance on the ÔWÕ 
from 1.30 every Tuesday, until the end of February, when we will 
lay down our saws and loppers during the bird nesting season. We 
have made significant inroads into some areas where we believe 
the most benefit in terms of views can be gained, whilst other 
parts remain untouched. The area continues to have a range of 
different habitats to support the needs of diverse groups of flora 
and fauna. After a spring break, we will be back in the summer 
to continue the good work. We are grateful to all those who have 
volunteered so far, but we are always looking for more help, so if 
you would like to join us please contact me on 832961. 

 Paul Carter


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Ramble with local group

Do you like a good walk, usually 
between 4-5 miles, with a pub lunch 
at the end of it? If so, did you know 
that there is an organised Ramble on 
the fourth Thursday of each month, 
organised by Nailsworth Rambling 
Club? The first one this year will be 
on February 23rd and as usual those 
going along will meet outside the 
Library at 9.30am. Details of each 
walk can be seen on the noticeboard 
inside the library during the previous 
week, as well as on the Nailsworth 
Society website. If you would like 
to join the group, just come along 
on the day or for more information 
ring Angela Middleditch on 832911. 
Nailsworth Ramblers are members of 
the Nailsworth Society, which is open to 
all for an annual subscription of £6.

20



History

We don't usually carry obituaries in the Nailsworth News, but 
very occasionally we make an exception when there is good 
reason. So this month we want to say goodbye to someone who, 
as well as being appreciated and loved by her many friends 
and family, has also been also an important part of the town's 
history. Thank you, Gail, for telling us more about Dorothy 
Blair (below) and supplying us with photos. 

There are some people in Nailsworth who truly make 
the place special and when they are gone you canÕt 
quite believe it. One such person was Dorothy Constance 
Blair. She was born on the 6th May 1921 and was one 
of the six children of the Bruton family. The Brutons 
began a blacksmithÕs business more than 200 years ago in 
Nailsworth, and this evolved into an Ironmongery business 
that is still in existence today.

Dorothy and her husband Jack raised four children in 
a cottage, only a short walk from the family business. In 
fact, apart from a brief stint in London Dorothy never lived 
more than half a mile from the 
centre of Nailsworth. That was 
just as well, because it meant that 
she was close to the shop. Even 
in retirement, she would pop in 
and explain how things were best 
done Ð she could never quite let 
go.

Dorothy's skill and gift at dog 
training was well known and 
she passed on her knowledge for 
almost 50 years. On my walk 
home, I often saw her with her beloved dog Trymm, who 
was always well- behaved. Trymm also liked eating nettles!

Family was very important to Dorothy, and she enjoyed 
many special celebrations. Most recently, there was her 
90th party where all the different generations came together 
with her many friends.

We are lucky in this small town to have such a rich 
tapestry of life. There are many special people who weave 
an extraordinary thread. When the thread is gone, we see 
the gap but also remember the colour and depth that was 
given to us.

We salute Dorothy for a beautiful life well lived and 
well loved. 

Gail Smith


A tale of two stones

Late in 2010 we showed you a picture of a marker stone 
in the National Trust woodland above Watledge. It was 
suggested that it might mark the parish boundary between 
Nailsworth and Amberley, 
or later, carry the initials of 
a local landowner marking 
the limits of his property. 
Thanks to the efforts of 
Allan Beale and Rosalind 
John in the Nailsworth 
Archive, we can now offer 
another and convincing 
explanation. We quote from 
the ÔCentenary History of the 
Minchinhampton Golf ClubÕ, 
published in 1989: ÔAlthough the Common survived the 
enclosure movements of the 17th and 18th centuries the edges 
were constantly shifting and a ÔPerambulator of the CommonÕ 
was appointed to check on encroachments. A series of stones 
marked HC were set up round 
the Common to mark its limits; 
apparently near such fences as 
had a Ôsuspicious and growing 
look to themÕÕ. The HCÕstands 
for Hampton Common; the 
ÔMinchinhamptonÕ came later, 
after a transitional period when 
the Common was described as 
ÔMinchin-Hampton CommonÕ. 
Rosalind has now discovered 
another stone at Burleigh! The 
ÔHistoryÕ suggested that none 
of the stones survived, but with 
two found we 
need to ask how 
many more are out 
there waiting to be 
discovered. 

 BA


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21



Coming events

Nailsworth Festival - May 2012

Details for the 2012 Festival are in the process of being 
finalised. A full programme of events will be published 
in future editions of Nailsworth News and on the Festival 
website www.nailsworthfestival.org.uk. Already booked 
are folk legend Julie Felix, classical favourites the Brodsky 
Quartet, and the Bristol Young Vic Theatre School with 
their production of Cold Comfort Farm. 

In addition to the usual range of activities in the town 
on Festival Saturday (19th May) there will be two specific 
events for young people. The first is a Creative Art 
Activity, led by Imogen 
Harvey Lewis. This will 
give 4-11 year olds the 
opportunity to contribute to 
a shared artwork which will 
develop throughout the day 
(for details see the Festival 
website). The second is a 
Photographic Competition 
for young people in the 12 Ð 
18 age range. Young people 
are invited to submit one or 
more photographs giving their personal view of Nailsworth 
(full rules and submission details can be downloaded from 
the Festival website). 

The 2012 Festival will include the third Nailsworth 
Poetry Slam. Anyone can take part. You need to compose 
three poems (one for each round if you are successful) 
and be prepared to stand up and ÔperformÕ them. The 
Poetry Slam will take place on Saturday 26th May at the 
Comrades Club, Nailsworth. If you would like to enter the 
competition contact Marcus on 01285 640470 or email him 
at spielunlimited@gmail.com.

The Festival will run from Saturday 19th May to Sunday 
27th of May. If you would 
like to become involved 
or explore sponsorship 
options, please contact 
Tony Anhoury, Chair of 
the Festival Committee on 
860671.

Tim Hughes, Festival 
Publicity, 836993 

(The picture on the left shows 
intent festival-goers in 2011)


Nailsworth Theatregoers

This is your last chance to book for ÔCinderella on IceÕ at The Everyman, Cheltenham on Wed 28th March. Please book and pay 
by Friday 10th Feb. Cheques for £27.50p payable to Nailsworth Theatregoers can be left at the Library desk. The coach will leave 
the bus station at 12 midday.

Mozart's ÔMarriage of FigaroÕ at Bristol Hippodrome on Sat 14th April may 
be fully booked by now, but phone Jinny and Ann on 833857 if you are interested. 
Cheques for £40 need to reach them also by Feb 10th. Further details are on the notice 
board in the Library entrance.

Book now for Johnny 
Coppin in Nailsworth

There is a treat in store in March - local 
accoustic musician Johnny Coppin 
will soon be performing again in 
Nailsworth with Mike Silver. We are 
promised classic songs which their 
followers know and love, as well as new 
compositions and collaborations from 
their latest CD Breaking the Silence. 
The duo should need no introduction, 
but we liked one description of their 
music as featuring, ÔSoaring harmonies 
and beautifully crafted songs from 
two of this countryÕs finest singer 
songwriters.Õ (Steve Knightley, Show of 
Hands). 

Johnny and Mike (pictured below) 
will be performing at Nailsworth Town 
Hall, 7.30pm on March 17th. Get your 
ticket from Shiny Goodness, or by post 
from Out To Lunch, 4 The Retreat, 
Butterow, Stroud GL5 2LS. Tel. 757376 
or 07837 798463. Please enclose SAE 
and make cheques payable to Out To 
Lunch. 

RSPCA South Cotswolds Branch Charity No. 207006Come and visit our fantastic shop at 2 Market Street, NailsworthWe sell a superb range of 
¥ clothing ¥ china ¥ books ¥ household items 
We are always in need of good quality, saleable donations! 
Volunteer for us!
If you have a few hours to spare each week, come and join our friendly team 
and help raise funds to support animals in the local community 
Special Sunday Donation Day - 12th February, 11.00 am Ð 1.00 pm 
For more information contact Andy or Kathryn on 01453 835814The RSPCA South Cotswolds Branch receives no external funding and raises all funds used to support its work from within the local community.
Help us to support local animal welfare.
22



Coming events


Nailsworth marks Diamond Jubilee

Following a visit to the Town Archives during last Easter 
holidays, Karen Robbins and her son Tom (8 yrs) saw an old 
poster advertising ÔThe QueenÕs Diamond Jubilee Celebrations in 
NailsworthÕ. Of course, this wasnÕt for her Majesty Queen Elizabeth 
II, who will be 86 this year, it was for Queen Victoria. However, 
Karen and Tom were inspired to try and recreate some of the events 
for our QueenÕs Diamond Jubilee in June this year, with a group of 
other volunteers. 

The poster, (illustrated on the right, though it doesnÕt reproduce 
well in black and white), contains themes that will be picked up this 
time around. Activities being planned include:

¥ A lunch for older community members

¥ A childrenÕs treasure hunt, using town shop windows to give 
clues

¥ A Grand Cycle parade from Egypt to Dunkirk Mills)

¥ An exhibition and film show 

¥ A joint church service.

The biggest single event will be the free Jubilee Concert held 
from 6 pm on Monday 4th June in the 
King George V Playing Fields. Think 
picnic - a giant Union Jack - local variety 
acts - Nailsworth Silver Band performing 
Proms in the Park - fireworks - and a 
beacon (part of a national chain across the 
UK) culminating in a torchlight procession 
down the ÒWÓ. Not to be missed. 

This is all in the early stages of 
planning, so watch this paper for more 
news in the coming months. Meanwhile, 
it is clear that there is a lot of work to be 
done. Can you help? If you would like 
further information, or to become involved 
or if you have any memorabilia photos or 
films from Nailsworth celebrations in the 
past that you could share, please contact 
Karen via email nailsworthjubilee@
yahoo.co.uk or on 836695. 

Nailsworth Film Society

On Friday 17th February, the Film 
Society will be showing MeekÕs 
Cutoff (2011). It is billed as Ôa bleakly 
mysterious true story about a small 
group of pioneers on the Oregon Trail. 
Trust in their maverick guide wavers as 
he leads them along uncharted paths, 
primitive wagons lurching into the 
dangerous wilderness, where the arid 
stony desert provided ample opportunity 
for the filmÕs stunning photography. 
You will not fail to engage in their 
lives, their decisions and their intense 
determination to survive.Õ 

Lasting 104 mins and cert. PG, the 
film will be screened at Nailsworth 
Primary School, opening 7.30 for 8. For 
further information, contact 

Krissy Spencer 

on 835594.

Christ Church Diamond Jubilee stamp exhibition

To celebrate the royal Diamond Jubilee, Christ Church will be holding a stamp 
exhibition in their Sawyer Hall, on Saturday 21st April from 10.00am to 4.00pm. The 
aim is to cover the years 1952 to 2012, recording every royal event and every issue 
of stamps with a royal connection as well as a wide selection of postal, historical and 
technological events in the last 60 years. There will also be a competition. 

Since the Coronation in 1953, there have been well over 2,500 stamps issued in 
Britain, but due to the size of the hall there will be a limit on exhibits. About 70 sets of 
stamps will be on show, along with a lot of other philatelic material, including individual 
stamps, first day covers, presentation packs, mini sheets and P.H.Q cards, and some 
selected stock books from a private collection. There will also be an opportunity to see 
how the same royal events have been celebrated in stamps around the commonwealth, 
particularly in Australia, Canada and New Zealand. Refreshments and light lunches will 
be available. 

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23



Sport

ÔTrue gritÕ on the Ladder...

The Stroud and District Motor Club will be running their annual 
climb up the Nailsworth ÔLadder' on Sunday 5th February. Cars 
and bikes have been attempting this seemingly impossible climb 
since the 1920s , and at one time Douglas motorcycles even used 
the climb in their 
advertising material. 

This time around, 80 
cars of various shapes 
and sizes will take part 
in a 13 stage event 
which includes some 
of the most challenging 
hills in the district - but 
none steeper than ours! 
Cars will be arriving at 
approx. 10.30am, and 
the climb usually lasts 
about two hours. The 
organisers have stressed 
that motor sport is 
dangerous, and anyone 
wishing to see the event 
must stay behind the 
temporary fencing and 
follow the marshall's instructions. Dogs must be on leads. There will 
be no parking available on the Ladder or the ÔWÕ so please leave 
cars in town or walk 
to the event. Contact 
Mark on mshipton@
hypertec.co.uk or 
Terry on 883930 with 
any questions.

Fledgling club soars high

In this Olympic year there is renewed interest in Tae-
Kwon-Do. Since the Seoul Games in 1988 it has been the 
only kicking and punching Martial Art to be internationally 
recognised as an Olympic Sport.

Now the Nailsworth Community has its own Club. 
Mystic-Eagle Tae Kwon Do opened in November at Five 
Valleys Leisure, and its fledgling students are training 
hard towards their first grading later this month. Locals 
to Nailsworth, they have shown great promise under the 
guidance of the ClubÕs founder and chief instructor, Mr. 
Goldstein-Lee (Black Belt, 2nd Degree), who says:

ÔWeÕre very proud of our studentsÕ progress. For 
instance, siblings Jessica and George attend with their 
father and these young people are showing great promise, 
demonstrating consistent commitment and enthusiasm. IÕm 
sure theyÕll be a force to be reckoned with at their grading!

The Club is passionate about providing positive 
benefits to the community. The essence of Tae-Kwon-Do 
lies not just 
in its kicking 
and punching 
techniques, but 
in its underlying 
core values 
- integrity, 
courtesy, self-
control - sadly, 
often missing in 
todayÕs society. Alongside physical schooling, this ethos 
helps develop fine character traits essential for leadership 
skills and role-modelling - especially valuable for younger 
people (although the Club welcomes members from 7 to 
107 years of age!) Students enjoy both the opportunity to 
get fit and the disciplined approach to their training.Õ 

Tae-Kwon-Do learning is ever 
ongoing. Mr Goldstein-Lee has just taken 
2nd (Silver) at the British Championships 
(NITA) for Black Belt Patterns - no mean 
feat when approaching his half-century. 
You can contact him on instructor@
mystic-eagle-tkd.com.


Thank you Dave Cook for sharing this 
photo of a contender on the Ladder in 
2008 - see more at Dave's website on 
http://hoits.smugmug.com/.


bristol 
ensembleSchubert: String Quintet in CTea Time ConcertSunday 15th January - 3.00 pmChrist Church, NailsworthThe Bristol EnsembleTea and cakes will be served after the concert 
at 4.00 pm in aid of a Church charity.
Tickets from Coco, 7a Fountain St 
or call 0117 973 0505£10 on door, £9 in advance, or 
£25 for series of three. Under 18s free.
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Sport

Forest Green Rovers 

Question: What have Liverpool FC and FGR got in common this 
season? Answer: brilliant when away, but not there yet at home! FGR 
have put in some great performances recently, but in the December 
period things tailed off in terms of results, especially at home. There 
is plenty of huff and puff up front, but no one at the moment who can 
score the goals on a regular basis. Some of the new players are young 
and have yet to find their feet (sometimes literally) and the more 
experienced forwards are definitely off the pace now. At least there is 
good news. We are not in the annual relegation dog-fight for a change, 
and are very unlikely to be. Also, with some new forwards who can 
nonchalantly bang the goals in, there is certainly a chance of a play-off 
position come May. The 
manager should think about 
being less cautious at home 
when the team takes the 
lead and not be so prepared 
to defend the lead and bring 
on pressure to the defence 
(this is just a thought from 
some fans!) 

There is still half the 
season left and some great 
football on show so there is 
much to look forward to.

MS


Phoenix Table 
Tennis

Why not come and join 
40 million Chinese at the 
subscription rooms?

Well OK, they might not be 
actually here in Nailsworth, but it 
is reckoned that about 40 million 
Chinese regularly play table 
tennis and even 2.5 million Brits 
are also playing. It is the one sport in this country that is 
showing an increase in participation. Also, it is said that 
many A-list celebrities enjoy a game, including Canadian 
Michael Buble and Damon Albam of ÔBlurÕ, another 
devotee of the sport.

So why not join in? Go along to the Subscription 
Rooms for a game of table tennis. It is fun, and a really 
good way to keep fit and meet new friends. The rules 
are simple. This is a great sport, and it doesn't matter if 
you are new to it or rusty through lack of practice - you 
can start at a basic level and quickly improve. Oh, and 
don't forget that Robby the Robot (mentioned in earlier 
editions of this paper) still needs a thrashing - why not try 
him out? 

There will be a welcome for you at Nailsworth 
Phoenix Table Tennis Club every Tuesday evening 7 
till 10 and every Saturday morning 10 
till 12. Find the club at the Subscription 
Rooms. For more information visit www.
nailsworthphoenix.co.uk or ring Andy 
on 885393.


A great place to work ...
Shops, offices, factory units sometimes availableGive us a call on 01453 832754email: james@eachamberlain.co.uk www.eachamberlain.co.ukNailsworth 
Mills Estate
Face in the crowd

Is this YOU?

If so, you 
qualify for 
a FREE 
ground 
pass to 
FGRÕs 
next Home 
match. Just 
call in at 
the Club 
Office with 
a copy of 
this paper. (Brought to you by NN 
in association with FGRFC).


The Steppes 
Residential 
Care Home 
Est 1981 
A small, warm and friendly care home for 
the elderly, in a peaceful corner of Cossack 
Square. With trained care staff giving 
around the clock personal care, we 
endeavour to meet our residentsÕ needs 
and ensure their happiness. 
For a brochure or to arrange a visit, please 
telephone Mrs Jo Smith 01453 832406 
25



Sport

Shortwood United

Is there any stopping Shortwood this season? Apart from 
a minor blip in December (which may be costly later), the 
team is all guns blazing! If you want goals, action, skill 
and an increasingly good atmosphere, then Meadowbank 
is surely the place to be. 

The team is definitely on a roll, and success in the 
League is being replicated in the GFA cup. Also, the 
next round of the FA Vase is going to be a huge occasion 
- Home v Ashington on Sunday 12th February at 
Meadowbank - be there, be seen. Can The Wood make 
Wembley very soon and replicate FGR of years ago? Such 
is the occasion, the police have had to move the fixture, so 
FGR will be at home on the previous day. That means 2 
quality matches in 2 days. What a weekend!

With games in hand in the League, it looks like being a 
close end to the season and since there are some big teams 
to play against still, the forthcoming months will certainly 
be thrilling. MS

Taverners

The continuing mild, fairly dry 
weather means that so far the 
Taverners have only lost one 
game to the conditions - that 
happened when an unexpected 
snowfall put paid to a match the 
week before Christmas. The loss 
to Shortwood in the GFA Trophy 
was expected by most, but the 
Taverners acquitted themselves 
well on the day and made the 
opposition work really hard for 
their win. Back in the league, 
performances have been again 
erratic, with a couple of good 
results over the Christmas period 
ending with a disappointing draw at home to bottom of the table 
Yate. Still, with games in hand the team could climb to a respectable 
position in the league. The Reserves are glad to be in the mid-season 
break that the Stroud League arranged after last seasonÕs weather, as 
their form hit rock bottom in the run up to Christmas. LetÕs hope that 
the New Year brings a return to the form that took the Taverners to the 
top of the league. Check out all the results at www.taverners.com. 
MS


RefereeÕs assistant

Did you know that we have a new up and coming football 
linesman in our midst? Laurie Merchant is the man. He 
started his ÔreffingÕ career last year, after a rigorous selection 
that meant passing tests in fitness, written exams and a 20+ 
game assessment. Laurie is accredited to the FA and his 
parent organisation is the GFA here in Gloucestershire. If you 
follow football, 
you will see 
him cropping 
up everywhere, 
such is his 
enthusiasm and 
his regard by the 
GFA. One day 
we assume we 
will see him at the Cup Final - well who 
knows? 

Do you know what a buzzer flag is? I 
didnÕt, but Laurie often uses one; it means 
that he can flag a situation directly to the 
match referee and at the same time press 
a button which buzzes the Ref straight 
away so that even if he is ÔelsewhereÕ 
he is notified and the situation is looked 
at immediately. Now we know how the 
Premiership referees appear to see things 
from behind their heads! and who knows, 
we may even have gold lined cameras one 
day to sort out whether it was a goal or 
not. Whatever next? MS


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Regular weekly events

February 2012

Nailsworth Community Workshop evening class, Sub Rooms, 7.30-9pm. £5 
+ cost of materials. Age 14 upwards. Info Pam Brown 07971 737626

Pilates, Arkell Community Centre. 6.30 and 7.45pm mixed ability. Info Jo 
873229

Brownies, Arkell Community Centre, 6-7.15pm. Info Debbie 832628

Thu

Taiji Wuxigong, Christ Church Hall, 9.30-11am, donations only. Info Poh 
Eng 836425

CrocÔNÕRoll childrenÕs music class (6 mths - 4 yrs), FGR Football Club, 
10.00am. £3.50 per class. Info Stephanie Urquhart 07957 235413 or 
stephanie@crocnroll.co.uk. Term time only

Forest Green Senior CitizensÕ Club, Arkell Community Centre, 2pm. £1.50 
per session. Info Dave Boulton 833411

Yoga, Christ Church Hall, 5.45-7.15pm and 7.30-9pm. Info Sally Deacon 
751937

Pilates (experienced and beginners), Mortimer Room, 6.30 and 8.00pm. 
Info Bea 07717 472129

Tae-Kwon-Do, Five Valleys Lesure, 7.00 Ð 8.30 pm. Info 07715 445729 or 
www.mystic-eagle-tkd.com

Fri

Country Market, Mortimer Room, 8.45-11am

Pilates, Arkell Community Centre, 9.45 & 11 am, mixed levels. Info Jo 
873229

Awareness through Movement Ð Feldenkrais Method, Sawyer Hall, 11 am. 
Info Iraina 832027

Nailsworth Community Workshop session for home educated children 7 yrs 
upwards. 9-11am and 11.30am-1.30pm. £10 per session. Info Pam Brown 
07971 737626

Little Angels, Singing and Music for Parents & Toddlers, 

St. Georges Church, 9.30-10am

Singing Sisters, songs from around the world for Mothers and children, 10-
11.30am. Info Bella 835923

Playcircle, Christ Church Rooms, 10.30-11.30am. Creative play session for 
parents and children under 3Õs. Term time only. £3.50 per adult (taster free) 
inc. free tea and cake. Info 07930 136075

Archive Office open, Town Hall, 10 am-12 noon

Bingo, Arkell Centre, 6.30 for 7 pm

Table Tennis for all, Sub. Rooms, 10.00 am Ð 12 noon. First session free





Mon

Yoga (gentle class), Christ Church Hall, 11.15am-12.45. Info Sally 
Deacon 751937

Taiji & Qi Gong exercise classes, Nailsworth Town Hall, 9.30 am, 
10.45am, 12 noon. £6. Info Jeff Docherty 07970 303694

Archive Office open, Town Hall, 10am-12 noon

Buddhist Meditation, Friends Meeting House, 7.15pm. Suggested 
donation £3. Info James 07867 767605

Pacerpole walking for posture (approx 1Ð1. hr). Meet Library 2pm. Info 
Pam Browne 832907. Pacerpoles provided. Charge £3

Aerobics & Body Conditioning, Christ Church Hall, 9.30am and 7.15pm. 
Info Tina 753895

Tae-Kwon-Do, Five Valleys Leisure, 6.30 Ð 7.30 pm. Info 07715 445729 
or www.mystic-eagle-tkd.com

Tue

Phoenix Playmates Mother and Toddler Group, Primary School Gym, 
9-11am. Term time only. £2.50 per child. Info 833511

Yoga, Christ Church Hall, 10-11.30am. Info Sally Deacon 751937

Nailsworth ÔLightwavesÕ Shintaido, Christ Church Hall, 1.30-3.30pm. Info 
David & Nagako Cooper 750598. 1st ÔtasterÕ session free

Health Walk (30-60 mins). Start Nailsworth Library, 2.00pm. Info 832907

Yoga, Christ Church Hall, 6.30pm. Info Chris Hewett 834304

Circuit class, 7 Ð 8 pm, FGR Gym. Info Liam 07815 187632

Table Tennis for all, Subscription Rooms, 7.30Ð10.00pm. First session 
free

Weds

Arkell Community Drop In session, 2.20 Ð 4.15 pm. Info Angela 834260

Pilates on the Ball, Christ Church Hall , 9.30am. Info Tina 753895

CrocÕnÕRoll childrenÕs music class (6mths Ð 4 yrs), FGR football club, 
10.00 am. £3.50 per class. Info Stephanie Urquhart 07957 235413 or 
stephanie@crocnroll.co.uk. Term time only

Stroud Valleys NCT Bumps and Babies Coffee Morning, TubbyÕs CafŽ, 
Waterside, 10 am Ð 12 noon. Info 0844 243 6286

Stroud Valleys Credit Union, Arkell Community Centre, 2.30 Ð 4 pm. Info 
298785 or www.svcu.org.uk

Yoga, Christ Church Hall, 7 Ð 8.30 pm. Info Sally Deacon 751937

Iyengar Yoga, Mortimer Rooms, 7.30pm-9pm. Info Alison Griffin 752249





Wed

Sat

 Your local florist 01453 836714 5a Fountain St, Nailsworth GL6 0BL

12

Sun

Churches Together Service, Arkell 
Community Centre, 6.30pm. Info 834996

Shortwood Utd FC - FA Vase tie at home to 
Ashington, 3pm

13

Mon

Nailsworth Knitters, Arkell Community 
Centre, 10am Ð 12pm. Info 834996

NSoc Local History Research Group, 
Stonehouse High Street, Mortimer Room, 
7.30pm, Info 832228

W.I. meeting, The Wonder of Antiques, 
Parish Rooms, 7.30pm. Info Rosemary 
Davis 833966

15

Wed

Peg Loom Weaving Workshop, Mother 
Goose, Market Street, 10am Ð 1pm. Info 
298725

Stroud & District Macular Society, Christ 
Church Hall, 10am Ð 12 noon

Mobile Police Station in car park of current 
Police Station, 13.30 Ð 14.15

16

Thu

Pop-up Puppets Workshop, Mother Goose, 
Market Street, 10am Ð 1pm. Info 298725

Rotary Club meeting, Egypt Mill, 7 for 
7.30pm. Info Joan Goldsmith 885373

17

Fri

Sheepskin Bag Workshop, Mother Goose, 
Market Street, 10am Ð 1pm. Info 298725

Film Club MeekÕs Cutoff, Nailsworth 
Primary School, 7.30 for 8pm

18

Sat

Doll-making Workshop, Mother Goose, 
Market Street, 10am Ð 1pm. Info 298725

Taverners FC v Chipping Sodbury, 2pm

Shortwood Utd FC v Ardley Heath, 3pm

FGR v Gateshead, 3pm

20

Mon

Needlefelting Workshop, Mother Goose, 
Market Street, 6 Ð 9pm. Info 298725

NSoc Gardening Group, Herbaceous 
Borders, Mortimer Room, 7.30pm. Info 
834046

21

Tue

Town Council meeting, Town Hall, 7pm

Trefoil Guild, Info 873297

Home-Start training course starts. Info 
759911

22

Wed

Learn to Crochet, Mother Goose, Market 
Street, 10am Ð 1pm. Info 298725

23

Thu

NSoc Rambling Group, Meet at the Library, 
9.30am, Info 832911

The Tinkers Knitting Group, Mother Goose 
(Market Street), 10am Ð 12 noon, All 
welcome. Info 298725

25

Sat

Farmers Market, Mortimer Gardens, 9am 
Ð 1pm





25

Sat

Mobile Police Station in car park of current 
Police Station, 13.30 Ð 14.15

NSoc Theatregoers, Neighbourhood Watch, 
Everyman, Cheltenham. Info 833857

27

Mon

Learn to Knit, Mother Goose, Market Street, 
6 Ð 9pm. Info 298725

NSoc Local Studies Group, Gloucestershire 
Almshouses, Mortimer Room, 7.30pm

29

Wed

Sheepskin Slippers Workshop, Mother Goose, 
Market Street, 10am Ð 1pm. Info 298725

Alzheimer CafŽ, Christ Church Rooms, 2 Ð 
4pm. Info 834714

March

1

Thu

Rotary Club meeting, Egypt Mill, 7 for 
7.30pm. Info Joan Goldsmith 885373

2

Fri

Vintage & Collectors Fayre, Town Hall, 10am 
Ð 3pm

3

Sat

Sheepskin Bag Workshop, Mother Goose, 
Market Street, 10am Ð 1pm. Info 298725

Peg Loom Weaving, Mother Goose, Market 
Street, 2 Ð 5pm. Info 298725

Taverners FC v Berkeley Town, 3pm

FGR v Cambridge Utd, 3pm

4

Sun

Family Service, Nailsworth Primary School, 
11am. All welcome

5

Mon

NSoc Arts, Crafts & Music Group, 18th 
century Hornpipe Music, Mortimer Room, 
7.30pm, Info 835540





WhatÕs On - February 2012

To include events, contact Tina on 835295 

or mail whatson@nailsworthnews.org.uk

Deadline for March 2012,15th February 2012

February

1

Wed

Doll-making Workshop, Mother Goose, Market 
Street, 10am Ð 1pm. Info 298725

Flower Club, Town Hall, 7.30pm, Sallying Forth

2

Thu

Rotary Club meeting, Egypt Mill, 7 for 7.30pm. 
Info Joan Goldsmith 885373

3

Fri

Vintage & Collectors Fayre, Town Hall, 10am 
Ð 3pm

Doll-making Workshop, Mother Goose, Market 
Street, 10am Ð 1pm. Info 298725

4

Sat

Taverners FC v Kings Stanley, 2pm

5

Sun

Family Service, Nailsworth Primary School, 
11am. All welcome

Mobile Police Station in car park of current 
Police Station, 13.30 Ð 14.15

Motor climb up Nailsworth Ladder, 13 stage 
event. Info 883930 and see page 24

6

Mon

M.E. Support Group, Scrumptious CafŽ, 11am. 
Info Richard 07814 223567

Learn to Crochet, Mother Goose, Market Street, 
6 - 9pm. Info 298725

NSoc Arts, Crafts & Music Group, The Bronte 
Sisters, Mortimer Room, 7.30pm, Info 835540

7

Tue

Stroud District Council and Job Centre Advice 
surgery, Arkell Centre, 9am Ð 12 moon

Needlefelted Hearts Workshop, Mother Goose, 
Market Street, 10am Ð 1pm. Info 298725

Shortwood Utd FC v Flackwell Heath, 7.45pm

8

Wed

Sheepskin Slippers Workshop, Mother Goose, 
Market Street, 10am Ð 1pm. Info 298725

Ideas for the future of the Woodchester Convent, 
meeting 7.30 St. MaryÕs Hill House.

9

Thu

The Tinkers Knitting Group, Mother Goose 
(Market Street), 10am Ð 12 noon. All welcome. 
Info 298725

10

Fri

NSoc Theatregoers, Book and pay for 
Cinderella on Ice on 28th March; and Marriage 
of Figaro on 14th April. Info 833857

11

Sat

FGR v Luton Town, 3pm

12

Sun

Norton Wood Orchard Project working party. 
Meet Jovial Foresters car park, 2pm. Info 
Marilyn Miles 832974





The next Nailsworth News will be 
published 
at the 
beginning 
of March, 
please 
send 
entries 
by 15th 
February.

Churches Together 
in NailsworthMAIN SUNDAY SERVICES 
9.30 am St George, Church St 
10.30 am Christ Church, 
Newmarket Road 
10.30 am QuakersÕ Meeting House, 
Chestnut Hill 
11.00 am Priory Church, InchbrookEveryone welcome. 
ChildrenÕs activities 
included at all these services.