This page contains Webmaster chat which has appeared on the Grateley.com Home Page during 2007-2008.
BLOG
(posted 19/12/08) click here for previous blogs
Station Road Steps
 
Yesterday, 18 December, saw the quiet opening of the long awaited steps
leading to the new car park from Station Road. They were not open when
I boarded a train at 10am, but on my return at 4pm the site had been
cleared and they were open for use. It will be a pleasure to use them
as I live close to Station Road and it nicely avoids the saga of
crossing Cholderton Road railway bridge.
I must say that at a quick
glance they look neat and solidly built using stout and well crafted
timbers. They certainly stand out from other steps I have seen on the Rail
Network. I wonder if I was the first fare paying passenger to use them?!
Careless Transportation
 This
gift to the residents of Cholderton Road was from a large green tractor
transporting a full load of manure locally in a trailer with no top
cover or rear board. It was deposited in the process of overtaking a
parked vehicle. A number of cars and vans that followed swerved to
avoid the large pile, which was flattened somewhat by the time I
returned with my camera.
I know we live in the countryside, but
can those people who need to transport this type of consignment, please
adequately cover their loads, if only to comply with regulations or for consideration to others!
My Last Blog
Some fifteen months after taking over the role of Webmaster, this will be my last blog. Originally, it
had been my intention to continue for a period of time, but a matter of
domain ownership I raised with the Parish Council soon after was not
satisfactorily resolved and I declared I would only be prepared to
continue in this role for 2008, or whilst someone was found to take
over from me.
Since taking over
the role in
September 2007, I have endeavoured to expand the web site and provide a
service to visitors from near and as far afield as Australia and New
Zealand. During my time, it was gratifying to receive a number of
complimentary comments regarding the site and to receive a Hampshire
County Council 'Best Local Area Website'
Runner's Up Award last month,
In
looking to the future, given strong
pro-active support by Parish Council, Local Clubs and Services, a
village web site can provide an important and up-to-date source of
information to the
community, those who may be looking to moving to the area or perhaps
have lived or had family connections in the area. Presently, I believe
there is some way to go yet before this situation becomes a reality.
That said, I don't believe Grateley is alone in this respect.
I am of the view that with more people becoming internet aware and with
better telecommunication connectivity, village or community sites,
which generally start life through the initiative of one person, need
to look long term at site management, funding, data and domain
ownership if the site is to retain value. Otherwise, there is every
likelihood that it falls into disuse through lack of support. Like it
or hate it, the internet is here to stay and can be a powerful medium
if used to full effect. It should also be seen as supplementary to and
not a replacement for written or verbal communication.
One person has expressed an interest to take over from me, that
may come to fruition next month. Otherwise, it has been agreed that the
Clerk to the Parish Council will endeavour to provide monthly updates
at least in the form of Parish Minutes.
I would like to end by thanking the many people who wrote in and who provided material for publication during my time at the helm. In
particular I would like to thank Michael Longyear, David Preston and
Hilary and Tony Seddon for their input.
It remains for me to wish all of you a Happy Christmas and a Healthy and Successful 2009.
Kind Regards
Steven R. Cole .... |
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DECEMBER BLOG
(posted 29/11/2008)
Station Road Car Park
At the time of writing, the new
car park has been open six weeks and is now looking more established.
The steps near the junction of Station and Cholderton Road are in the
process of being constructed and lighting is installed, giving an
appearance that completion is not too far off.
The
station now sports new signage and a fresh lick of paint. The shelters
look less shabby as a result of the vandalised panels being removed,
which now make it more exposed to the elements whilst waiting for
trains during the winter months!
Thanks to the WI
Whilst on the subject of station appearance, on behalf of the many
people who use this station, I would like to thank all those involved
in maintaining the excellent display of tubs and plants. It brings some
much needed colour to the station, particularly on drab days.
Post Yellow Lining
The spectacle of negotiating the string of cars parked along Wallop
Road is now blissfully a distant memory and must be a blessing for the
residents who were immediately affected prior to the yellow lining
earlier last month.
Seasonal Festivities
Just over three weeks to Christmas and with the deepening recession,
many stores are offering discounted pricing, vouchers and other
incentives to persuade shoppers to part with their money. No doubt we
will be treated to the usual round of seasonal music including the
“Merry Christmas Everyone” heard ad nausea since 1973.....
Hopefully, in all the hullabaloo we don't loose sight of the origins, magic and pleasure as the festive season approaches.
And !
Until
my next and next blog entry in the closing days before Christmas,
please continue to send in your news, articles or photographs of a
local nature or interest to visitors to this site.
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OCTOBER BLOG
UPDATE
(Posted 24/10/08)
In Catch-up Mode!
As is often the
way with electronic equipment, my computer after some years of sterling
service, chose a bad time last week to have a wobbler. Hence, why there
has been a lack of site news whilst I was busy upgrading the hardware
and rebuilding the many software applications.
Concrete Crusher
The
decision by C.A Stevens to withdraw their application for a concrete
crusher, which was announced on this site on the 15th October, is a
welcolme development. It remains to be seen whether this is permanent
or retrenchment....
On a related note, read Councillor Pat West's message thanking supporters opposed to the C A Stevens Concrete Crusher Application.
Station Road Car Park
The new car park opened on 17th October, the same day these pictures were taken.
......................
(posted 04/10/08 - Updated 6/10/08)
Concrete Crusher
The
application (07/02133/CMAN) for a concrete recycling site at C A
Stevens Yard near Grateley Railway Station continues to be the focus of
attention by villagers, local councillors and county council officers
opposed to the planned development. The application was turned down
because it was considered that it would have an adverse affect on the
local people and environment because of resultant noise and vibration.
However, the applicant has challenged the decision and it understood to
be back with the County Council Regulatory Committee.
If
like many, you remain opposed to this application, are concerned about
the increased traffic from builders and large lorries delivering and
collecting the circa 14,000 tonnes/per year concrete waste passing
through the village, but have not yet signed the petition, please contact your parish councillor.
Alternatively, please support your local representatives by writing a letter of objection to Hampshire County Council , The Castle, Winchester soonest before the committee next around the 15th of this month.
ACT NOW BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE....
Station Road Car Park
Taken from the station footbridge on 3rd October, the car park now
sporting the tarmac surface and close to completion. I will post the
opening date as soon as I have more details.
Yellow Lines (updated 6/10/08)
The yellow lining of Grateley Village commenced Monday 6th October, quicker
than expected! Pictures of the roads covered can been seen in Grateley Album 2008
. I'm sure this will be welcomed by the villagers, particularly those
living along Wallop Road. The signage is expected to follow after the
new car park opens.
Local Representatives
It
is all to easy to forget that many of the things we take for granted,
or expect by way of local services, only happen due to the dedication
and commitment of your local representatives who take appropriate
action. They include Parish, District and Borough Councillors who give
their unpaid time freely and often without due recognition they
deserve. Likewise, we continue to enjoy the support and commitment by
our local MP, Sir George Young, who provides in a paid capacity strong
support at local and national levels.
To you and the many
other local volunteers, thank you for the support you give, without
which our community would be the poorer....
Site Logs
Almost all articles posted to this site are recorded in the site logs.
If you cannot find what you are looking for, check the site logs (to
the right of this page) or run a search (at the top of this page or
main menu).
And!
Finally, as ever, I welcome articles, news or photographs that are of a
local nature or would be of interest to visitors to this site. |
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SEPTEMBER BLOG
(posted 02/09/08 - Updated 07/09/08)
Welcome to this site, particularly if it is your first visit. The aim
of this site is to provide information and news associated with the
village of Grateley in rural Hampshire, so please feel free to browse
the site.
STOP (7-Sep)
The
recent vote by borough councillors to reject the Goodmans application
was not decisive and rather highlights the mixed feeling towards this
proposed development, which undoubtedly will have a major impact on the
local environment and economy if approved. An good account of the
debate and vote held at 'The Lights' has been written by our local MP,
Sir George Young, which can be viewed at his constituency website
Grateley Parish Council (Removed 07/09 and replaced by STOP update)
Having
just come back from an abortive visit to Grateley Village Hall for this
months Parish Council Meeting, it was a pity that the change of date to
Tuesday 9th September had not notified sooner to the Andover
Advertiser, or this site, which is run on behalf of GPC. A number of
people had turned up for the meeting in the pouring rain!
Diary of Local Events
There are a number of local events being held this month, including harvest lunches, so take a look at the diary for more information.
Station Road Car Park
Work continues on the new car park at Grateley Station. The last I
heard was that the new facility would not be available before the end
of October. I will post more information as it is made known to me.
As a reminder, there are a number of links in the Local Services Directory that cover important services in the area. This includes Test Valley Borough Council,
which has an excellent website providing access to a wide range of
information about the Borough Council and its Services including
planning applications, leisure, transport, waste and recycling.
And!
Finally, as ever, I welcome articles, news or photographs that are of a
local nature or would be of interest to visitors to this site. |
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AUGUST BLOG
(posted 02/08/08)
Welcome to this site, particuarly if it is your first vist. The aim
of this site is to provide information and news associated with the
village of Grateley in rural Hampshire, so please feel free to browse
the site.
August
is a traditionally the time for garden fetes, shows and taking that
much needed summer holiday. Probably the biggest annual event within an
hours drive from Grateley during 27th-31st is the Dorset Steam Fair
held near Blanford Forum.
Dorset Steam Fair
Nearer to home on the 9th August is the Hampshire Water Festival and on the 25th (Bank Holiday Monday) is WHERWELL Annual Sports and Fete and GOODWORTH CLATFORD
Flower Show and Village Fete (see events ).
Station Road Car Park
Work has commenced on the additional car park for Grateley Station,
with the entrance located off Station Road. Commuters will no doubt
welcome this development when it opens during September. It remains to
be seen whether residents in that part of the village will share the
same view as a result of the additional traffic and noise to the
locality and impact of considerbly more vehicles negotiating the
Station Road and Cholderton Road 'T' junction.
As reported at the last Parish Council meeting, the parking
restrictions will be put in place to coincide with the opening of the
new car park.
Finally, as ever, I welcome articles, news or photographs that are of a
local nature or would be of interest to visitors to this site. |
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JULY BLOG
(posted 02/07/08)
Welcome to those of you visiting this site for the first time. The aim
of this site is to provide information and news associated with the
village of Grateley in rural Hampshire, so please feel free to browse
the site.
Thanks
again to those of you who have written in regarding the site, in
particular, past residents of Grateley or those with family
connections. I'm pleased to hear that you find the site informative
and interesting.
One of the reasons why I enjoy living in this part of the world is the
views, rolling countryside and picturesque buildings, all within easy
travelling distance of Grateley.
Shaftesbury
If you are wondering where to go for a ride, try the area around Shaftesbury by car.
Sherbourne Abbey
Maybe you dislike traffic and high fuel prices, in which case consider
a train ride to Sherbourne with it's historic Castle and Abbey, only
five stations west of Grateley towards Exeter.
July is the time to be getting ready for the long school break, summer
holidays and fun. Whatever, you have planned, I hope you have an
enjoyable time and please check the Diary of Events as this gets reguarly updated and there maybe a local event that you wish to attend.
Finally, as ever, I welcome articles, news or photographs that are of a
local nature or would be of interest to visitors to this site. |
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JUNE BLOG
(posted 01/06/08)
Not much to report this month. However, it is good to know that we do
have a number of visitors to this site from outside the UK, so welcome
to those of you from distant shores.
The STOP campaign is
still active and needs the continued support of all local residents to
oppose the TESCO warehouse development. This application should not be
underestimated, as the consequences of granting planning approval are
only too clearly spelt out in Jan Green's letter from Fradley.
Grateley Parish Council next meet on Tuesday 3rd June, parishoners are welcome to attend the meeting.
Notable calendar date this month is the Longest Day (21st).
As ever, I welcome articles, news or photographs that are of a local nature or would be of interest to visitors to this site. |
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MAY BLOG
(posted 01/05/08)
May
Notable calendar dates this month include May Day (5th), Spring Bank Holiday (26th).
May is the fifth month of the year in the Gregorian Calendar, one of
seven with 31 days and a month within the spring season. The month may
have been named for the Greek goddess Maia, who was identified with the
Roman era goddess of fertility, Bona Dea, whose festival was held in
May.
Site Updates
Now resumed after a period away from the computer in April. However,
little in the way of new content has been submitted since early March
to keep the site fresh and interesting.
As ever, I welcome articles, news or photographs that are of a local nature or would be of interest to visitors to this site. |
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MARCH BLOG
(posted 02/03/08)
Are You a New Visitor?
Welcome to those of you visiting this site for the first time. The aim
of this site is to provide information and news associated with the
village of Grateley in rural Hampshire, so please feel free to browse
the site.
March
Notable calendar dates this month include Mothering Sunday (2nd), Good
Friday (21st), Easter Day (23rd) and Easter Bank Holiday (24th).
As Easter is a moveable feast linked to the first Sunday after the
first full moon, on or after the vernal equinox, it can fall on any
date between March 22nd and April 25th. This year is particularly early
and when looking at the calendar for the period 1901-2078 I see it was
only matched in 1913, with Easter not falling on the 22nd. As a trivia
point, during this 177-year period Easter Day falls 39 times in March
and 139 in April.
Site Updates
Due to other commitments there will be no site updates from Easter
until the end of April. Please send me your articles or news items
before this period if you wish them to be published.
And Finally
Many thanks to those people who have contributed to the site so far. As
ever, I welcome articles or news items for the web site. |
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FEBRUARY
(Posted 03-02-2008)
Although chilly and what you would expect for this time of year, there
have been some spring like days. The daffodils and snowdrops for me
being a typical reminder of the colour and new growth which will soon
follow as we move away from the winter season.
GRATELEY PARKING
Whether during my walks around the village, or when driving past
Station Approach and along Wallop Road, it is difficult to not be aware
of the continued impact arising from the increased number of cars
inconsiderately parked on the pavement, making it all but impossible
for pedestrians to walk along, thereby forcing them onto the road. Not
forgetting of course the added difficulties posed for residents
accessing their own homes.
The support from a number of local dignitaries and others in helping to
solve this long standing problem is welcomed and appreciated. However,
it cannot come too soon when the talk of yellow lines and improving
station car parking facilities is translated into reality, especially
for residents in this part of Grateley.
And Finally
Many thanks to those people who have contributed to the site so far. As
ever, I welcome articles or news items for the web site.
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NEW YEAR
POSTED 9th January 2008
Life in the Cole household is returning to normal after the festive
season. A recent check on the bathroom scales confirmed what I had
already suspected, my weight has increased from over indulgence. I
guess that means more exercise and restraint with life's little
pleasures over the next few months in order to get back my
pre-Christmas waistline!
CLUB SECRETARIES
Another plea to all club secretaries to get in touch with me regarding
updated information and planned events for 2008. I am aware that much
of the information given in Clubs and Societies is now outdated. Please take this opportunity to contact me by email or phone.
And Finally
I trust you continue to find the site informative and easy to navigate.
Many thanks to those people who have contributed to the site so far. As
ever, I welcome articles or news items for the web site.
Kind Regards
Steven R. Cole ... |
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Festive Season!
POSTED 21st December 2007
For
many working people, this weekend marks the start of the festive season
as they take their well-earned Christmas break, perhaps not returning
to work until the New Year. Maybe you are one of them and are now
looking forward to chilling out over a glass or two of your favourite
tipple and contemplating where to go on holiday in 2008! So, whatever you plan to do this Christmas, spare a little thought for
the person in the family who has spent the most time planning and
purchasing the presents under the tree and cooking that delicious
festive meal....
Web Site
I will now be taking a break
from managing this web site until the New Year. However, please
continue to send me your emails, or material you would like published.
I have a number of ideas for expanding this site, but this depends upon
an important administrative matter being resolved - soon.
And Finally
It just remains for me to wish all visitors to this site a Very Happy Christmas and Successful 2008.
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December already, not long till Christmas then!
POSTED 1st December 2007
For many,
it's that time of year when the social calender, flexing of credit
cards and over indulgence take on a new dimension. Having recently spent a
few days in London it was certainly the case that the shops were full
of 'special offers' and must-have accessories to entice you to part
company with your hard earned cash. On a number of occasions when my good wife was browsing clothing stores
with a view to next years wardrobe and subtle hints for Christmas
presents, I preferred to stand outside the stores and take in the city
ambience! At times, reflecting on the marked contrast of stressful,
but vibrant city life with wide ranging social and cultrural
facilities, to that of rural Grateley.
Not being a regular visitor to the capital I was again reminded of the
stark differences in public transport, where tube and bus services are
in abundance, with waiting time down to minutes at any time of the day,
whereas away from Grateley Station, a car is an absolute necessity. On the subject of public transport, click here for the new railway timetable with effect from 9th December, you can always find the South West Trains links under MAIN MENU-Information Local Services.
Web Site
Grateley.com has now been running for five weeks in it's new form. Many
thanks to those of you who have so far written or spoken to me in
complimentary terms about the new look site. Also, a special welcome to visitors
outside of the UK, or people about to move to the area who have since
got in touch with me.There is much more to come over the next few
months, so please spread the word. In particular, I would like to hear
from clubs and societies with updated information and planned events
for 2008.
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Some five years after it's inception, Grateley.Com web site has taken on a new look....
POSTED 29th October 2007
For those of you who do not know me, by way of introduction my name is
Steven Cole and I have recently taken on the role of Webmaster from the
site's creator, Steve Peach. I know that many of you will join me in thanking Steve and his wife,
Ginny, for all their hard work and effort setting up and
maintaining the site from 2002 until early 2005. Without their early
impetus, it is quite possible that there still would not have been a
community web site. As with all voluntary activities, it can become an
onerous task and due to other commitments, Steve has been unable to
update the site for the past two years. Earlier in the year the Parish
Council was asked if someone could take on the role and the message
went out.
Having take early retirement in 2002, I was fortunate in being able
to devote more time to expanding my interests, which include
photography and web design. In addition, as a long term resident
of Grateley for over 24 years, I have a level of local knowledge and
contacts that will enable me to contribute to building on the site's
early success in promoting information and awareness about Grateley
and its community. In time, I plan to introduce a number of changes that will be more than
just cosmetic in appearance. However, it's effectiveness will
inevitably depend upon receiving support by way of information,
material for publication and regular updates from clubs, societies,
schools, the church and local businesses, to mention but a few.
Please bookmark the site and return on a regular basis to see what's new by way of information and site features.
Kind Regards
Steven R. Cole ....
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