WEEKLY COLUMN of Fairford and Lechlade news by Chris Roberts

1. Well-known poet to re-open library 

Pam Ayres MBE, British Poet, Writer, Broadcaster and Entertainer will officially re-open Lechlade Community Library and Tourist Information Centre following its much needed and extensive refurbishment. The re-opening will take place on Thursday December 5 at 11am.

Lechlade Library has been a community-run library since 2012, and the need for refurbishment and associated fundraising had been known for some time. An enthusiastic and successful fundraising campaign ensued with the target of £78,000 being reached and exceeded within six months of starting the campaign.

The doors of the Library closed in October for work to begin and, two months later, the beautiful and warm space that is the new Lechlade Community Library will re-open at the beginning of December.

Local volunteers and a team of helpers from USAF and RAF Fairford completely cleared the building in readiness for the work addressing damp and cracking issues, the installation of new lighting and heating system, improved electrics, secondary glazing, new bookcases, reception desk and furniture, decorating and new flooring.

The decoration of the library is a masterpiece artistically choreographed by Lechlade resident, Laura Thornton. Over one central wall, Laura has designed and painted an impressive mural depicting the River Thames in Lechlade flowing under Halfpenny Bridge. On the walls above the new bookshelves in the children’s area are vibrant, colourful flowers, monsters and sea critters.

Do come along to the opening and see for yourself the improvements and the re-configured space that creates a bright and airy feeling of openness.

Guest of honour, Pam Ayres, will also be announcing the winners of the ‘Our Library’ Poetry Competition.

2. Charity fashion show and Christmas Fair 

 Come along to a Charity Fashion Show & Christmas Fair and enjoy a fun evening of bubbles, nibbles, Xmas shopping and a Fashion Show.

The show, which is curated by Fairford resident, Bettina Harvey of Hector & Queen (the Burford retail shop selling women and children’s beautiful clothing) is sponsored by Radnor Martin Estate Agents.

This exciting event is taking place on Thursday November 28 starting at 7pm in The Warwick Hall, Burford OX18 4RY.

ALL proceeds will go to local charity, Youth Challenge Oxfordshire – a programme designed by educational experts to help young people manage and overcome today’s challenges, improve mental health and well-being and offers an amazing opportunity for personal growth and development that will remain with them for the rest of their lives. To find out more visit: https://www.youthchallengeoxfordshire.uk.

Get 10% off all purchases on the night.

There is also a fabulous selection of raffle prizes donated by Diddly Squat Farm, The Drang Art Gallery, edenflowers – the Cotswold florist, Cotswold Wildlife Park and more.

Tickets cost just £20 and can be obtained by calling 07931 092349 or popping into the Hector & Queen shop at 134b High Street, Burford OX18 4QU.

3. Next concert of Choral Society 

 Fairford & District Choral Society’s next concert is on Saturday November 30 at 7pm at St Mary’s Church, Fairford, performing Mozart’s Solemn Vespers, Schubert’s Mass in G and Te Deum for the Empress Marie Therese and Insanae et Vanae Curae by Haydn. Music Director is Nia Llewlyn Jones; and the Organ Accompanist is Robin Baggs. Tickets cost £15, under 18s £5 and are available from Fairford Opticians, members of the choir or call 01285 713681 or available on the door on the night (cash only).

4. Ecumenical service for Advent 

There will be an ecumenical service for Advent – the Great ‘O’ Antiphons – on Sunday December 1 at 3.30pm in St Thomas of Canterbury Church, Fairford.

5. All are welcomed to prayer and praise 

All are welcome to attend Prayer and Praise on Sunday December 1 between 6pm-7pm at St Mary’s Church. A wonderful opportunity to invite family, friends and neighbours to church. All welcome. For more information please contact: carolinesymcox@googlemail.com or pa.wilkins@hotmail.co.uk.

5. Meals for families with new-borns 

Little Bundles’ volunteer local cooks provide meals for families with new-borns or for those in need at a challenging time and can provide a free hamper of festive edible goodies (all dietary requirements catered for). Delivering to Fairford and surrounding villages on Thursday December 19. Please contact Little Bundles before Sunday December 1 on fairfordlittlebundles@gmail.com.

6. Events in area

The Working 4 Wellbeing Christmas Breakfast will be at 10am on Wednesday December 4 in Fairford Community Centre. Donation of £5. For more information, contact Mary Ann on 07555 738138.

The Friends of Fairford & Lechlade Communities’ festive wine tasting will be held on Saturday November 30 at 7pm in Fairford Community Centre. There will be a range of wines expertly put together for you to enjoy. £25 per person. To book your place, please call Agneta on 01285 707300 or email admin@friendsoffairford.org.uk.

St Mary’s Church, Kempsford will be holding a Christmas Tree Trail in the Church to celebrate the many groups, clubs, organisations and others who have supported the local community. Free entry to St Mary’s Church to enjoy the sparkling festive trail on Friday December 6 from 5pm-7.30pm or Saturday or Sunday December 7 or 8 from 3pm-7pm.

A Festive Adventure at Hatherop Castle, Hatherop on Tuesday December 3 from 9am-10am. For Pre-Reception families (children aged 3-4 years). Step into a magical world where the Stableyard will be transformed into a festive wonderland, brimming with enchanting activities with elves, making reindeer food, music, stories and Santa Claus. Free of charge for Pre-Reception children, but to ensure there are enough gifts and magical supplies, please let the school know you will be attending. Tickets: https://tinyurl.com/mwyj8zaj.

Come along and support your local club at the Quiz Night suitable for all from toddlers to grandparents taking place on Saturday November 30 in Lechlade Memorial Hall. Doors open at 7pm and the quiz starts at 7.30pm. Tables of up to six people charged at £10 entry per team. Food and drink available. All proceeds raised will go towards the running of the football club.

The Lechlade Christmas Lights Switch-On is on Saturday November 30 from 4pm-6pm. Frankenstein’s Lobster will be back again to start the Christmas festivities at the switch-on event.

The Bird family invite you to party like it’s 1994 to celebrate being landlords of the Marlborough Arms (The Molly) for 30 years.

The party will be on Saturday November 30 from 7pm-12 midnight. With shot deals, live music from Jimmy Moore and 90s fancy dress encouraged.