with Margaret Morbey
Oli Babington
Oli’s funeral took place on Thursday September 20 at 12.30pm in Chearsley Church conducted by the Rev. Canon John Wynburne. The Church was full and more than 150 villagers and friends stood outside to listen to the Service. This began with a recording of Mika singing We Are Golden while the coffin was brought into the church. A schoolfriend did a reading, his brother Nick gave a tribute, two good friends, Furry and Paul, told us their memories of Oli, and John Wynburne gave an address. The service ended to the music of Tina Turner singing “Simply The Best”.
Oli was one of the best to his family, many friends and customers, quiet, unassuming, loving and caring, but having his mischievous side. He had a great love of cars and speed of all types, particularly Formula I racing. A wonderful father to his two young children, Harry and Charlie. Having undergone and recovered from a serious operation in February, Oli was at the happiest time of his life and had everything to look forward to with Sharon, his girlfriend of 18 years, whom he had met while both working at McDonalds in Aylesbury, and with whom he had run The Bell for nearly seven years. Their wedding was planned for the end of October.
The Bell and road outside was crowded for refreshments afterwards and a chance to share thoughts and memories of Oli. Oli’s Dad, Tony, gave a short address thanking everyone for all the support the whole family had received in cards, flowers and hugs and was pleased to announce that Sharon would be taking over the running of The Bell with the full backing of Fullers. Donations in memory of Oli will be given to the Neuroscience Ward, JR Hospital and The Heart Foundation and can be sent to Surman and Horwood, The Green, Crowell, Chinnor, OX39 4RR.
WI Mediterranean Evening - Saturday October 13
Following the very successful and popular French Evening, Chearsley WI are pleased to invite everyone to a Mediterranean Evening at Chearsley Village Hall on Saturday October 13 at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £15 which will include aperitif, 3 course meal and entertainment. Please bring your own wine and drinks. Tickets are available from Pauline Parkes on 01844 202250 and Jann Grimshaw on 01844 202630.
40th Wedding Anniversary
Congratulations to Phil and Ruth Holland of Manor Villas on recently celebrating their Ruby Wedding anniversary.
Car Boot and Classic Cars at Chearsley Cricket Club
A good number of car booters took advantage of the local venue on Saturday October 15 in company with a fine display of over 20 locally sourced classic cars. A few more seeking bargains would have helped to make the day more successful for the car booters. Nevertheless, the Cricket Club were able to put some more money in their funds from the day and plan another Car boot sale shortly.
Ann Veness
The death of Ann Veness of Haddenham last week is especially felt by members of Chearsley Cricket Club. Ann was a very special lady whose tireless and devoted efforts over many years, particularly as tea maker and scorer, were integral in making the Club what it is today. Donations in her memory can be made to Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity.
Cuddington Youth Drama and Theatre in the Villages
As well as Chearsley’s participation in this scheme when there will be an evening of Mapp and Lucia at Chearsley Village Hall on Friday October 19, (tickets still available from me, phone 01844 208913), Cuddington is presenting Coward at Sea, a forgotten Coward Classic P & O 1930 with Michael Lunts, which is being brought to the stage for the first time. Michael Lunts is an actor, pianist and singer who presents this one man musical evoking the golden age of the ocean-going liner complete with on-stage ship and a cast of classic Coward passengers. This will be held on Saturday October 20 at 8pm at Bernard Hall, Cuddington. Tickets are £10 each and available from Elaine English on 01296 655698, suitable for adults and children over 12. Support for this production will benefit Cuddington Youth Drama in costumes and sets.
