Past Events in Buckingham
COFFEE, CROISSANTS AND PRETZELS – FEBRUARY 2012
One day later and it could have been a different story, but Saturday 4th February was a cold, crisp morning which fortunately didn’t stop people coming into the Old Goal for a cuppa, with the added bonus of accompanying it with either a croissant, pain au chocolat or even a pretzel. We also had some Topfkuchen to add to our repertoire in order to embrace our friendship with Neukirchen-Vluyn. The place was buzzing as everyone tried to keep warm for a while or was just making the most of being able to catch up with friends – at one point, it was positively heaving! This is always a popular event, so a big thank you for your support.
In theory, this is quite a simple event, but with much effort that goes into the organisation to make it run smoothly. Thank you to Valerie for setting it up as usual; Jane, Janet, Sue and Terry for being the people “on the ground” whose aim is to coax, cajole and possibly arm twist people to join; David for organising the raffle and of course to the lovely Muriel, Sheila and Stephanie for organising and helping with the refreshments.
Margaret White
05.02.12
WINE and CHEESE TASTING AUGUST 2011
At the beginning of August we had, once again, a most enjoyable tasting evening at The Well Street Centre. Ron Gleeson introduced the wine and cheese in his inimitable style that is both expert and interesting. Back in the kitchen, David, Sheila and Muriel were preparing the good fare presented to us.
Wine One was a Clairette de Die Tradition sparkling white wine. Ron explained that this was a rare type of wine that is not produced by the Champagne method. Indeed it was discovered by accident two thousand years ago when a shepherd cooled his flask of wine in river la Drône and forgot it until the next year. By this time, it had transformed into the pétillant wine we were able to enjoy. The cheese was from Provence.
Wine Two was a Cave de Buxy Boissonnier white produced from the Aligoté grape in Burgundy. This was accompanied with Merzer – a cow’s milk cheese that comes from Brittany.
Wine Three was a white Côtes-du-Rhône from the Domaine de Givaudan in Provence. Ron explained that the grape varieties in this wine were Clairette and Grenache. The cheese was a Chimay Bière. This is made in a Trappist monastery, where the monks not only make the beer, but also the cheese into which it is dunked.
Wine Four was a rosé from the hills of Bandol in Provence. The cheese was Etorki Brebis. This was a tasty cheese, and is made from the milk of sheep that are raised in the Basque country.
Wine Five was one of my favourite wines. It was a Syrah-Merlot red made in the winery named after Père Anselme at Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The cheese also was one that I particularly liked – Delice de Bourgogne It is rich and creamy and is made in Burgundy.
Wine Six was a red wine is produced by Domaine de la Perriere near Chinon in the Loire Valley. It was enjoyable, and a little lighter than many Chinons. The cheese was Morbier which comes from the east of France. It is soft and tasty, and is distinguished by the thin black layer of ash that runs across its middle.
Wine Seven was a Jean-Luc Maldant Côtes-de Braune Villages Red. This was a most enjoyable wine made from the Pinot Noir grape, and another of Ron’s selection that came from Burgundy. The cheese, Vieux Flandres, as its name suggests, comes from Flanders. It was absolutely delicious.
Wine Eight was a Cave de Tain Crozes Hermitage Red made from the Syrah grape in the Rhône Valley. The cheese was Bleu des Causses. For a blue cheese it was quite mild, and, like Roquefort is matured in caves in the gorges of the River Tarn. However, unlike Roquefort, it is made from cow’s milk
We are so lucky to be able to enjoy Ron’s superb presentation of wine and cheese, and although we hope that it will not be the last, we are unlikely to meet again in the Well Street centre in the future.
John Murray
12.10.11
BASTILLE DAY BOULES TOURNAMENT JULY 2011
We duly celebrated Franc's special day by gathering on 14 July, Bastille Day, to play some boules on the cattle market, converted through the good offices of the AVDC and Colin Whitehead into four pistes to do battle for the trophy. This year we laid on an extra piste, because in past years we have had far more people than we could accommodate. On a fine and sunny evening we were surprised this year by a lower turn-out however and so to our disappointment it was hardly used.
Armed with a set of boules, a glass of wine and a hot dog plus onions from the barbecue, some beginners and some (clearly) experts joined in this wonderful game that went on for three hours before ending in a closely fought final, won by Marie Louise-Lewis (otherwise known as Mouse) and Mark Wellington.
It was a fun evening which attracted the usual crop of curious sightseeers. Hot dogs and some very passable wine was there to enjoy accompanied by French music ringing out over the town. There were some unexpected winners in the early rounds knocking out the experts who turn up year after year. It was nice to see a new four in the final. Thanks must be given to the so many people who worked hard both before and on the day of the event to make it the success it was. The large part of the this was due to the bon-hommie of Ron, dressed for the part, who kept it all going.
Geoff Shaw
19.07.11
CIVIC VISIT FROM MOUVAUX 1-3 JULY 2011
ENCORE ! SO MUCH TO DO – SO LITTLE TIME - that was the general feeling of the French contingent who visited Buckingham at the beginning of July. Our visitors took us by surprise by arriving early at the Buckingham Athletic Football Club. Greetings were exchanged and the hosts took their guests home for a meal.
For those of us who live in Buckingham we perhaps never fully appreciate what is on our doorstep, but to those from Mouvaux who were either visiting for the first time or returning for a second or even third time, there is much to explore. With Stowe, Oxford, and Blenheim so close at hand, there was a lot to choose from when looking at the proposed itinerary, not to mention of course wandering round Buckingham itself. It was a first visit for the Mayor of Mouvaux Eric Durand who was so impressed with the beauty of Stowe that he wants to come back and have a longer visit in order to fully enjoy the splendour of the gardens.
On Saturday morning a number of successful collaborative meetings took between local groups and associations. French youngsters from Mouvaux came to take part in discussions with the Youth Council of Buckingham and were impressed with the cleanliness of the town and the lack of both graffiti and dog mess! There was a very positive meeting between the two Trade Associations with emphasis on what Mouvaux can glean from Buckingham’s lively town centre! Dance and Choir groups gathered together to discuss future events for next year, which incidentally will be the 10th anniversary of the Twinning between Buckingham and Mouvaux..
In the meantime the rest of the party were taken on a tour of Buckingham. All finished at the Old Gaol for coffee. Outside this we were treated to a fencing display by three young people from Mouvaux and we were entertained by the Buckingham Acoustic Club.
In the evening, some preferred to entertain their guests at home, or take them to a performance of HMS Pinafore but a party and a barbecue were also on offer for both hosts and visitors alike which enabled everyone to get together and enjoy some Buckingham joie de vivre!
The weekend culminated in a Civic lunch held in the Community Centre where gifts were exchanged and presentations made. These visits give people a chance to experience the hospitality and culture of another country and Buckingham and its inhabitants certainly pulled out all the stops in extending a warm welcome to our friends from Mouvaux. With the 10th anniversary in 2012, it looks as though we will be doing it all again.
Margaret White
14.07.11
JOINT WALK in the Dover area - April 2011
Last year the joint walk with the Mouvaux Association des Randonneurs took place on the French side of the Channel in June during a heat wave. At the end of that walk, we all prayed that the next time we met, it would be in much cooler conditions. Our prayers were answered, as the walk this year on English soil took place on a much cooler day on Sunday 3rd April and we had some sunshine.
There were 15 walkers from Mouvaux and in three cars they arrived in Dover on time on a P & O ferry at 09.35 am. In 2007 and 2009, they came in much larger numbers as foot passengers and the walks had to start and finish at the Docks. This time, as they travelled by car, we could plan a walk away from the port and in the beautiful Kent countryside.
We all met in the Jackdaw Inn car park in Denton, an attractive village with timbered cottages, and at 10.30 am, the walk got underway but there was soon to be a short pause so that our Mouvaux friends could visit Denton’s small country church. After several ‘ups and downs’ and clambering over numerous stiles, we arrived at a newly planted vineyard in the Elham Valley which was the lunch stop. Outside the café, there were sufficient tables which we could use for our picnic lunch, and the café provided a supply of drinks. The walk continued over more undulating countryside, where lambs and primroses were in abundance, through woods and over more stiles finally arriving in the pretty village of Barham. It was here that we had time to admire both the outside and inside of the village church. At 4.00 pm we arrived back at the Jackdaw Inn car park. The pub was very busy, as it was Mothering Sunday, but the proprietors (knowing that we were coming) had saved us a number of seats in the garden, and we were soon enjoying a very welcome drink.
Stiles in France do not exist, and from the conversations emanating from around the tables, it was clear that climbing over them provided much hilarity for our Mouvaux friends. Some of them were suffering with a few aches and pains after the walk.
Soon after 5.00 pm, the Mouvaux Walkers were on their way back to Dover to join the P & O ferry to Calais.
Since the day of the walk we have had a number of e-mails from Mouvaux, and it was pleasing to learn that another very successful twinning event had taken place. We now understand that the Buckingham Walkers will be invited to join the Mouvaux Walkers in 2012 in France on their weekend away.
David Everson
13.04.11
COFFEE and CROISSANTS at the Old Gaol - February 2011
On a sunny morning in February the weather was positively balmy. We set up the old Gaol prison yard to welcome hopefully some curious passers-by in the town market. A large French flag fluttered at the entrance and the BTA banners were promninently displayed on the railings. Committee members duly set up the French café and with friends we enjoyed our first coffee and very large croissants. Soon people began to arrive and we had a very busy time throughout the two hours.
It was not long before large numbers came in and soon the room was filled with friendly voices. Old friends and new chattered happily about Mouvaux, France and twinning in general, and we were able to welcome several new members to our ranks. There were pictures to look at and information on Mouvaux for people to study.
The hard-working ladies in charge of the tea, coffee, hot chocolate and croissants must have wondered what had hit them when long queues formed and reformed at the counter, and extra chairs were needed as no-one wanted to leave. Meanwhile the raffle tickets were eagerly snatched up as punters competed for a selection of donated gifts kindly donated by members.
By the end we had eaten most of the croissants. Once again this very simple event was voted a success and we had brought a little French atmosphere to Buckingham on a winter morning. Hopefully we had also raised the profile of the Twinning Association.
Geoff Shaw
15.02.11
BEAUJOLAIS CHANTILLY EVENING - 19 November 2010
At one minute past midnight on the third Thursday of each November, from little villages and towns like Romanèche-Thorins, over a million cases of Beaujolais Nouveau begin their journey by motor-cycle, balloon, truck, helicopter and jet, elephant, runners and rickshaws though a sleeping France to all parts of the world. One of the most animated rituals in the wine world has begun. The whole operation is now protected under French law!
Beaujolais Nouveau began as a local phenomenon in local bars, cafés and bistros of Beaujolais and Lyons. Each autumn in pitchers filled from the growers’ barrels, wine was drunk by an eager population. It was wine that was made fast to drink while the better Beaujolais was taking a more leisurely course. In 1951 the region’s governing body – the Union Interprofessional des Vins de Beaujolais – officially recognised the term Beaujolais Nouveau. Soon after the annual race was born as an event.
On a more technical note under French and European rules the wine should be strictly called Primeur, as it is released between its harvest and the following spring. The term Nouveau should be used for a release between its harvest and the following autumn. The primeur part has been forgotten in the excitement.
What makes Beaujolais Nouveau so popular, especially in the US and the UK? Simply put, Beaujolais Nouveau is about as close to white wine as red wine can get. Owing to the way it is made, where the “must” is pressed early after only three days, the phenolic compounds, in particular the astringent tannins, normally found in red wines, are not there leaving an easy to drink fruity wine. This, coupled with the fact that it tastes best when chilled, makes for a festive wine that can be gulped rather than sipped and therefore unable to be critiqued by the pundits.
The race from grape to glass may be silly but half the fun is that knowing that on the same night and the following day people are drinking it all over the world at the same time. Its pedigree may not be a classic but it is good to drink and any other opinion sounds rather boorish.
We celebrated this fact by having a Beaujolais “Chantilly Evening” on Friday 19 November at the Well Street Centre. Chantilly is a famous French race course so this evening was organised as a "Race Night” with a difference. The hall was duly marked out with lanes and stages for the horses and the Beaujolais was procured just on time. Those entering were given a glass of Beaujolais Nouveau and the room was soon a buzz of expectant conversation. Six "horses" were with difficulty recruited for the first race and Geoff's tote open for business to accept bids of 20 pence on any horse. Four more races quickly followed. Winners were paid out their dues and it was not long before many were eager to volunteer to be the horses.
Half way through we enjoyed a supper of baguettes and French pate and cheeses. Free unlimited lemonade was drunk by those anxious to assuage their thirst and further supplies of Beaujolais and fruit juices were for sale. Further races then followed featuring more stages and we had one each for stallions and fillies. The evening finished with a raffle for all those who did not win their bets and we sold off the remaining Beaujolais. Funds were raised for the Association and all voted that the evening was voted great fun. Some people are very snooty about Beaujolais Nouveau but it cannot have been that bad because 40 odd people managed to get through 20 bottles of the stuff!
Geoff Shaw
05.01.11
BAFA AUTUMN ART EXHIBITION - 13-14 November 2010
For the first time, Buckingham Art for All welcomed four artists, Alain Delsalle, Hubert Devriendt, Marthe Comte and Serge Grockowiak invited from Buckingham’s twin town of Mouvaux to the autumn Art Show. The show’s theme ‘Inspired by a Poem’, gave everyone’s imagination wide rein. “The involvement of the Mouvaux artists added a new dimension to our annual BAFA competition and exhibition held. Everyone was pleased by the outstanding quality and variety in their paintings. It was a delight to get to know them and their families and to have them to stay in our homes. We look forward now to an ongoing and reciprocal relationship between BAFA and our friends in Mouvaux.
The weekend’s exhibition was a great success. It was opened formally by John Bercow, MP and Speaker of the House of Commons, with speeches of welcome by Peter Baker and responses by Michelle Delsalle and Annie Millecamps, who came over with them as the organiser of the twinning link at the Mouvaux end. There was a great sense of camaraderie and our visitors expressed excitement in being able to meet the English painters and to show their paintings.
Hosted by BAFA members and local families, the visitors ended their stay with lunch at Boycott Farm before going back to the Buckingham Community Centre to take down their pictures and set off back home to Mouvaux.
Peter Baker
10.01.11
MURDER MYSTERY EVENING - A puzzling case for Inspector Cluesans
On 17 September 2010 we gathered in the Community Centre to solve a murder mystery produced by the Old Gaolers under the direction of Terry Penny.
Now we all know that a traditional murder mystery ends up, as in Cluedo, with Colonel Mustard killing Miss Scarlett in the library with poison or something similar. However Terry Penny, in writing this entertainment, firmly set his face against such frivolity. We were presented with a scenario that I dare to say, none of us would have dreamt of – the entirely mythical world of international competitive jigsaw competitions. Most of the cast seemed capable of doing crosswords in the 5 to 10 minute bracket.
As with any lucrative competitive sport all sorts of, not entirely healthy, emotions were stirred by a mixture of money, glory: I believe a bit of sex even got a look in. Unfortunately, for your correspondent, the identification of the actors with the characters in the story became ever fainter as the story progressed, so when the murder happened it was difficult to be sure who actually was missing.
A fine meal, together with wine, then followed, which added nothing to the audience's cognitive powers, before the arrival of Inspector Cluesans (without a clue...get it?) and his sidekick.
To keep the audiences little grey cells going we were presented with a quiz that asked us to identify 20 different forms of death, for example suicide, ovicide. This of course really sorted out those who had done Latin and/or Greek at school from the rest and ended up with two tables scoring 19 out of 20.
The interrogations then commenced, with the audience, most of whom had done this before, straining to look out for the information that would lead to the identification of the killer. Sure enough one of the characters came out with information about the circumstances of the killing that only the murderer could have known. This was only part of the solution however. We then had to link the actor who gave away his guilt, with his name...and this is where your correspondent failed!
We have to thank Terry Penny & the Old Gaolers for a testing and enjoyable night out that we can perhaps repeat in the future.
Paul Hirons
07.01.11
WINE & CHEESE EVENING 2010
On a sunny Summer evening in August once again the members of the Twinning Association were treated to a very enjoyable and convivial tasting of cheese and wine. The event was a sell-out and the level of noise in the Well Street centre said it all. The wines and cheeses to match were skilfully selected by Ron Gleeson. Ron’s presentations of the wines were most interesting, and resulted from his expert knowledge of the subject. Of course all the wines came from France.
Wine one was a Bailly-Lapierre Brut de Charvis sparkling Rosé. This Burgundy was an excellent way with which to start on a summer evening. The vineyard is located in an old stone quarry and this results in unique growing conditions for the grapes. With the mild La Galette cheese, wine two was 2008 Cuvée Spéciale de Durban Viognier White. This vin de pays comes from close to the famous mountain feature, the Dentelles de Montmirail – a splendid sight!
The ever popular Chaumes cheese was coupled with wine three, 2008 Domaine Dutetre Clos de Pavillon Touraine-Amboise White. This family vinery is located near the historic city of Amboise. Its cellars and museum are carved into the tuffa rock, a typical feature of this stretch of the river Loire. Wine four, 2009 Rosé Vallon Côtes de Provence Rosé. The wine is made in the department of the Var – one of the more beautiful parts of France. This was accompanied by farm produced Gruyère cheese
Wine five was 2007 Château de la Valette Brouilly Red. This Beaujolais has a fine reputation. With this we eat an unusual cheese called Chabrin, which is rarely found in this country. Wine six was Sandrine Cesbron Cuvée Signée St. Nicholas de Bourgueil Red with Crottin Chavignol cheese, made from Goat’s milk. This wine comes from the region not far from Chinon.
Wine seven was 2008 Domaine de Rolland Fitou Red, produced in the deep south, with cheese Pont Lécvêque – another one of my favourite cheeses. The vineyard is in the centre of the famed Cathar fortress region. Come here if you like sunshine! Wine eight was Bourgogne Hautes-Côtes de Nuits Red with a blue cheese, Bleu des Basques from the Basque region. Côtes de Nuits is the home of the well- known Nuits-St-George, and the territory of the renowned Pinot Noir grape.
The whole evening was a super presentation of cheese and wine by Ron. He was assisted by Muriel, their grandson Charlie, John and Hazel Bird and Margaret Clark.
John Murray
19.07.10
BASTILLE DAY BOULES TOURNAMENT 2010
Buckingham’s best free event took place on 14 July and the attendance was up on previous years despite the uncertainty of the weather. A great fun evening was had by so many residents and it even attracted visitors from other towns.
Armed with a set of boules, a glass of wine and a hot dog plus onions from the barbecue, some beginners and some (clearly) experts joined in this wonderful game that went on for three hours before ending in an international final where two young Australians, living in Buckingham, Emily and Edward Hawlin, won at the very final end against Frenchman Jacques Rives partnered by our representative and previous winner, Mike Booth.
Thanks must be given to the so many people who worked hard both before all the day of the event to make it the success it was. These included Valerie Shaw, who always puts in so much work behind the scenes, Ronnie Gleeson, who works as the front man and arbiter and the ladies, who provided refreshments – Stephanie Scrase, Muriel Gleeson, Rosemary Stuchbury, Margaret White and Sheila Everson. Our umpires, David Everson, Sue Watkins, John White and John Murray controlled the rinks, wielding their measuring tapes to decide those close decisions. Scorekeeper, Joe Farrell kept us on track and Martin Try provided the necessary sound and music (truly French of course). We are also very grateful to the AVDC and Colin Whitehead for providing the sand and the bales.
It was a wonderful success, because of the time and effort of everyone involved. Ron fails to mention that his “bon-hommie” and Frenchness in manner and dress was a large part of this success. – Ed.
Ron Gleeson
19.07.10
INTER-TOWN TWINNING FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT 2010
The sun shone on some happy footballers.....
On Friday 9 April, some 70 players and their coaches converged on Stowe School from our twin town of Mouvaux and their twin town of Neukirchen Vluyn. Having been amazed by their beautiful surroundings, they then settled in to the rooms and dormitories. An informal soccer pitch was set up just to the side of the school’s hallowed cricket pitch and everyone enjoyed a hearty meal together in the evening. Saturday was the big day for matches with a number of local teams joining the hosts, Moretonville Junior Football Club, over at their playing field just outside Buckingham at Gawcott. The games were fast and furious and led to a final play off between Mouvaux and Buckingham.
Teams from Chesham and Moretonville ended up as the final winners and the trophies were graciously presented by John Bercow, our MP and Speaker of the House of Commons. Sunday saw a series of friendly matches played courtesy of Buckingham Athletic Football Club, followed by shopping in Milton Keynes and the ferry home!
Thanks are due to Mark Chapman and Moretonville Football Club for carrying out all the extensive administration, to Stowe School for their hospitality, Buckingham Athletic club for the use of their pitch on the Sunday and of course all the visiting councillors, including our own Mayor, parents and friends.
Plans are now being made for a repeat in Neukirchen-Vluyn in 2011.
Jane Mordue
26.04.10
COFFEE and CROISSANTS at the Old Gaol - February 2010
One winter’s morning.....
It was a cold Saturday morning in February, and I wasn’t looking forward to spending two hours hanging around in the Old Gaol waiting for one or two of our braver members to wander in from the chill of Buckingham market. So I was in no hurry to arrive, and indeed with ten minutes to go, there was no one in the (scarcely warmer!) old prison yard except for a handful of committee members and friends. Outside festive blue, white and red balloons were buffeted in the piercing wind, while inside the usual contingent of willing helpers must have felt their efforts in setting up tables, and preparing refreshments, were going to be in vain.
But then people started to arrive, and soon the room was filled with friendly voices. Old friends and new chattered happily about Mouvaux, France and twinning in general, and we were able to welcome several new members to our midst.
The hard-working ladies in charge of the tea, coffee, hot chocolate and croissants must have wondered what had hit them when long queues formed and reformed at the counter, and extra chairs were needed as no-one wanted to leave. Meanwhile the raffle tickets were eagerly snatched up as punters competed for a selection of unwanted Christmas gifts – or perhaps they all hoping to win the bottles of wine?
By noon the yard was emptying and all the croissants had been sold, but as I walked back through the flea market to the car the sun was shining and it seemed as if the atmosphere of France was already spreading through the town, making Buckingham a warmer, livelier and more vibrant place.
Chris Strain-Clark
04.03.10
By courtesy of the Buckingham & Winslow Advertiser
BUCKINGHAM CARNIVAL 2009 - The visit of the Géants
Saturday 12 December dawned bright and clear for Buckingham’s 25th anniversary parade. It had rained hard on the previous two years so there was some consternation when at 9.00 am it started to drizzle, completely at odds with the weather forecast. We were relieved when the cloud cleared by the beginning of the parade at 10.45 am.
52 people from France had come over the previous evening. There were a small group from Mouvaux, the Géants party from Zuytpéenne and a lot of supporters, recruited from various villages around Lille, who had come to play as a band and to march in the procession. They arrived in one of these large French coaches bang on time and we greeted them in the Small Hall in the Community Centre. They were then taken to various homes in the Buckingham area for a meal and accommodation.
They were instructed to report to Chandos Road at 9.00 am, extraordinarily early on a cold sharp day. The walkers chose to carry playing cards to simulate the magic card trick to fit in with the theme of the carnival, The Magic of Christmas.
A total of 38 floats and other attractions left to go through the town at about 11.00 am following the judging. Large crowds greeted us in the middle of the town and the Géants were certainly a “hit”. It was a great occasion – some say the best ever. The icing on the cake was the announcement that the Géants had won first prize in the adult section.
After a lunch at the White Hart, our visitors dispersed around the town. Some were even taken to Stowe.
Rain at about 4.00 pm somewhat dampened some spirits. All gathered at the Buckingham West End Bowls Club to mix, talk, eat, drink and to generally entertain each other. There were some very loud French songs and more sedate carols from the English. Barry gave us a Latin rendering of Old MacDonald’s farm, which brought the house down.
Stephanie produced some lovely food and drinks were bought from the club bar. Paul had laid on extra supplies of wine but by the end he found that he had not sold a single glass of wine to a Frenchman! - they loved his selection of English beers. Such a good time was being had by all that we had some difficulty in bringing the occasion to a close. We are grateful to the Club for allowing us to use their premises.
Early next morning, having suitably breakfasted, English style, our visitors left from the Community Centre, happy in the knowledge that once again that friendships had been gained across the Channel.
Geoffrey Shaw
19.12.09
BASTILLE DAY BOULES TOURNAMENT 2009
A large crowd of prospective players and curious spectators assembled at Buckingham's Cattle Pens on Bastille Day,
France's national day, to celebrate it in suitable fashion in honour of Buckingham's twin town Mouvaux. Pairs of contestants queued to try their hand at the game,
the aim being to get the most number of boules (solid, very heavy metal balls) nearest the cochonnet or jack.
By 7.15 pm, all 32 slots were filled and soon the clink of boules being knocked out of the way, the singing of French chanteurs and shouts of "Bravo!" recreated a
typical French scene. Tricolore bunting fluttered, French chanteurs
sang and friendly greetings of “Bonsoir!” echoed around as the matches got under way, directed by Ron Gleeson and supervised closely by marshals at each
of the three pitches. Before long, agonised “Oh”s and loud “Hurray”s marked the players’ progress, while spectators ate their hot dogs and sipped the excellent
wine on offer. There were even French voices to be heard because several guests from Mouvaux and Paris had joined the fun and were delighted to show the English
how to play their national game. However, it was a pair from Bancroft Petanques Club, Geoff Bovingdon and Tom McNicholas, who finally won in a closely contested
match…but then they do play three times a week!
Robin Stuchbury presented the cup and Ron Gleeson was congratulated on
having done a great job as MC and chief referee.
It was a great evening enjoyed by so many people - young
and old, men and women. A game that everyone can play - as shown by the
number of participants who had never even seen boules before. We show one of our members showing some of the would-be
participants the necessary technique of play!!
Valerie Shaw
16.07.09
MIDSUMMER SOCIAL EVENING - June 2009
At a Midsummer Social Evening event in June, Sandrine Zambaux from the Modern Foreign Languages Dept. at the University of Buckingham gave a talk
- "Discovering British culture: a personal journey through French eyes".
Her talk was described by Jane Mordue, Chair of BTA, as “charming and entertaining”, and was warmly welcomed by the 50-strong audience. Sandrine
explored the similarities and differences between French and British cultures, basing the evidence on her own experiences as a newcomer to England in 1996.
She started her talk in an unexpected way by exploring in detail with her audience their own conceptions of French culture and landscape through their own
prejudices and ideas about the French.
They soon realised there were other possible ways of viewing their well-known world and often smiled, as they were asked to think about aspects of
British vocabulary and idiomatic expressions, British food, humour and the way we act so leading us to appreciate some of Britain’s most cherished values.
She then asked us to link our views with her own feelings so enabling us to deepen our understanding of cross-cultural differences and to decipher
important facets of French and British behaviour.”
The event proved to be a very sociable affair filling the hall of the Well Street Centre with much chat and laughter to the fragrant smells of a fish
and chip supper. There was also two testing quizzes to test the audience’s knowledge of French icons, celebrities, artefacts and alimentation.
Sandrine certainly won us over with her Gallic charm and her interesting observations of our peculiarly English passions and behaviour. We hope
that we will enjoy her company again.
Geoffrey Shaw
01.07.09
JOINT WALK AT DOVER - March 2009
Once again our annual get together with the Mouvaux Association des Randonneurs is now an event, which has become extremely popular
on both sides of the Channel. Walkers from Buckingham (10 in number) met their counterparts from Mouvaux (26 in number) on a dry
and sunny Sunday morning on Sunday 13 March at the Eastern Docks in Dover. Their P and O Ferry from Calais docked at 10.15 am and,
having disembarked, our French friends were quickly made very welcome. There were a number of familiar faces in the Mouvaux contingent
but also a few new faces, including one lady who admitted that this was her first visit to England!
A coach had been pre-booked to take the party from Dover to Walmer Castle, where the 8 mile return walk to Dover would commence.
The Coastline near to the Water’s edge was followed for 2 miles before the ascent of Bockell Hill. It was here, near to the World
War 1 memorial that there was a pause for a picnic, where we were able to sit on the grass on top of the cliffs overlooking the English Channel.
Following the break for refreshments, the ramble continued inland as far as St Margaret’s at Cliffe and the Smugglers Inn, where the staff made
everybody feel very welcome. Our French friends do appreciate stopping for drinks at an English pub, and a pint of English bitter or just
a cup of English tea.
The walk then continued back to the cliff top and the South Foreland Lighthouse. From here we had the best views of the White Cliffs of Dover.
There was just time for a brief pause on Fox Hill Down overlooking the Eastern Docks before the twenty minute stroll down to the docks
and the departure lounge for those travelling back to Calais on the 17.30 pm P & O Ferry
This was another successful twinning get-together, which was thoroughly enjoyed by everybody participating. We now look forward to 2010 when we will be walking on the French side of La Manche.
Sheila and David Everson
01.05.09
CULTURE/ARTS VISIT - October 2008
Following an invitation from the Buckingham Decorative and Fine Arts Society (BDFAS), a deputation of fourteen art lovers from
Buckingham’s twin town of Mouvaux spent two and a bit days with us from 3-5 October 2008. They were entertained right royally
by members of BDFAS, joined by enthusiastic members from the Buckingham U3A French groups and the BTA.
They came in three cars, having driven from Mouvaux and arrived mid-afternoon on the Friday. They were greeted at the
Community Centre, were given refreshment and met their hosts for the weekend. The exposure to local artistic matters started
here with an illustrated presentation in fluent French by Bob Keating, mainly presenting the historical background and contents
of Waddesdon Manor and New College, Oxford, both of which they were due to see over the weekend. In his talk he explained why
“New” College is in fact the oldest college in Oxford!
Saturday was spent in Oxford. Piloted by John Murray, our guests drove themselves to the Pear Tree Park and Ride on the outskirts
of Oxford, from where they took a bus to spend the morning at the Ashmolean. After lunch we walked to New College and with the aid
of a tour guide written in French we had a look round this magnificent example of an Oxford college.
The day ended with a relaxed reception buffet dinner evening at Mastings, the home of Sylvia and David Firnberg in Preston Bissett.
We were joined happily by many other guests.
Sunday morning was spent at Waddesdon Manor, where once again we met Bob Keating, who acted as a French-speaking guide around the house.
Lunch at a reserved table in the Manor restaurant ended their all too short visit to sample the artistic delights in the Buckingham area.
After lunch they left for their boat at Dover and were given a truly British experience of a mammoth traffic jam on the M25.
Entente cordiale x 2
David Firnberg
05.12.08
TWINNING BARBECUE
A few of our Mouvaux friends joined us in John Murray's garden for a festive barbecue. All sat round laid-out tables in John's attractive garden, which was much
admired by all.
John and Roy Taylor managed the fires with great aplomb and their efforts which were appreciated by all. The day was dry and we actually had
some sun in this dreadful summer.
Geoffrey
07.09.08
QUIZ NIGHT IN TINGEWICK - April 2008
On Friday 18th April Tingewick Village Hall was full to bursting with contestants gathered to pit
their wits against quiz master Terry Penny. In groups of between 3 and 6, everyone groaned and gasped for inspiration to
find answers on the tip of the tongue - what was the name of the hero
of "Titanic"? - where is rugby played in Paris? what peace
treaty was signed in 1949? Gales of laughter erupted at intervals from
different tables as ribald answers were considered. The usual teams again did well but we did get a new winner this year! I am always surprised on
these occasions how much people know concerning such a mass of trivial information. Meanwhile, everyone had enjoyed a tasty supper provided by a hard-working group of volunteers. This was washed down with welcome drinks from the bar.
It was a truly enjoyable
evening, spent in most agreeable company. As a bonus, the Association made a very
useful profit. Our grateful thanks go to Rosemary, Terry and their team for
all their hard work to make it possible.
Geoffrey
28.04.08
MOUVAUX CIVIC VISIT APRIL 2008
This year things were a little different. Numbers were large, as we were looking after the members of a whole band and we had quite a lot of new hosts
sharing the twinning experience. It was also different in that rather disappointingly many of our old friends from across the water were not able to
come. However once again it was happy weekend, sharing meals,
walks and interests while getting by in two languages.
The students had a short experience of an English class at the Royal Latin School and the band went to the Parish Church to warm up and practise for their
performance that evening. The concert in the evening was a unique occasion in that a full church enjoyed the most marvellous playing of brass with The Great Horwood
Silver Band and the Band de Nord - Pas de Calais. At the end of the evening the two bands joined together to lift the roof with a truly magnificent
sound. The French bandsmen (why no women!?) enjoyed some liquid refreshment in the Three Cups while the rest of the audience wended their way home also refreshed by a
rather special experience.
On the Saturday students from RLS and the Lycée Gambetta de Tourcoing joined together to work on a project comparing the expectations of their
two cultures - "Culture in a Box". The cyclists went off for a cycle ride into the Oxfordshire countryside and the Band had an all-day workshop under an English
guest conductor - Frank Renton - , which was reported to be very stimulating and worthwhile.
In the meantime the rest of the French visitors went on a trip to Bourton-on-the-Water. It rained there and back but the sun came out to enable all to enjoy
a visit to such a beautiful Cotswold town with visits to quaint tea shops, Birdland and a motor museum. In the meantime the Judo enthusiasts had gone to Winslow
to share experiences of Judo and other martial arts.
The bandsmen once again retired to the Three Cups, as we waited for the return of the coach party. All then retired to eat dinner in various locations
arranged by the hosts.
Sunday dawned in deep snow. The youngsters went swimming in the Swan Pool while the rest of us gawped at the lovely landscape around us. At 11.30 am we all joined together for a (very) long Civic Lunch
kindly financed by the Town Council. Pleasantries were exchanged. Bernie Russell was deservedly made a "Friend of Buckingham". Gifts were presented and thanks stated. The morning ended with a
short presentation from the students about their earlier project.
Geoffrey Shaw
07.04.08
WINE & CHEESE TASTING - March 2008
One barrel of wine can perform more miracles than a church full of saints. Italian proverb!
Members and friends arriving at the Well Street Centre on Friday 14 March were greeted by a roomful of large round tables, laid with appropriate coloured
napkins, two glasses each, lots of water and bread all to encourage us into the mood of la belle France. As usual we started with a refreshing
glass of sparkling wine.
Ron Gleeson’s well-tested formula of half a glass of
carefully chosen wine, with explanations of origins, methods and
characteristics, was repeated eight times accompanied by some most interesting cheeses. We were kept well supplied by
Ron's team. We finished the evening with a powerful glass of Languedec Red from the South of France by the Med.
Once again it was a superb occasion, cleverly devised and expertly
presented in every detail, reminding us all why we are Francophiles and why
we value so much the expertise of Ron and his colleagues. Those who never came missed a real treat.
Don't miss it next time!
Geoffrey
01.04.08
BUCKINGHAM CARNIVAL 2007
The theme this year was “Christmas TV Specials”. In the case of our contribution this subject was interpreted pretty loosely! We decided to celebrate the victory
of England over France and we planned a float with Rugby posts and the two figures of Wilkinson and Chabal, suitably attired. They would be accompanied by junior rugby players from the Buckingham
RUFC plus some walkers with A-boards.
Saturday dawned cloudy but very soon the forecasted rain came in. It rained and rained and rained. The youngsters wrapped themselves in anoraks and Wilkinson and Chabal
were consigned to history. Our float was generously provided and driven by Henry Scrase and we were pleased to be joined by Berni and Dominique from
Mouvaux.
Boy - was it wet! It was surprising to see so many onlookers, as we went through the town but we were not surprised to note that many had disappeared indoors
for their mulled wine on our return. I travelled on the parade as a Caribbean pirate with Jack Sparrow. When the parade stalled in the Cattle Market, there was no
escape from the rain and I could feel the water reaching my underpants! We,the Rotary, did receive the Premier prize. The winner was a clever church float depicting
"Songs of Praise" and we were pleased to see the ladies of Inner Wheel come second with their Queen's Speech.
However the twinning float was commended by the organisers and our young men from the Rugby Club kept up the singing of many renderings of the English rallying-call
but we must explain to a mere Frenchwoman, Stephanie by name, that the English song talks about ONE chariot! Anyway once again all voted it a success once
we had dried out and warmed ourselves up. Berni and Dominique met us afterwards in the local chinese restaurant and the opportunity was taken to review the programme for 2008.
Geoffrey Shaw
13.12.07
BUYING A PROPERTY IN FRANCE
We gathered in the Well Street Centre to hear Philip Jenkinson from Lille to hear about the hazards and joys of buying a property in France. He proved to be both
entertaining and informative. The meeting ended with a panel session. Wine and delicious refreshment was then served kindly prepared by some BTA stalwarts.
Unfortunately no picture was taken so you will not be able to see what a most enjoyable and successful occasion it proved to be. It included a raffle with a difference
where we were asked to guess the identity of a mystery prize by feeling its shape: few got it right! What made the whole evening so successful was the opportunity to talk to quite a few people presently with
properties in France and to hear of their experiences. We gained some new members too!
I have written some notes on the information from Philip Jenkinson's talk which might be of interest. To read these please click on
Geoffrey Shaw
23.10.07
JOINT WALK AT DOVER 2007
On Easter Saturday with a certain amount of anxiety and in trepidation, 8 members of the local Walking Group,
together with Jane Betts and Howard Mordue from the Twinning Association, arrived in Dover in time to meet 15 walkers from Mouvaux who had travelled as foot passengers
on the P&O Ferry from Calais. The sky was blue and there was a slight chill in the air, as the boat docked on time at 09.05am.
The walk quickly got underway, and, following a steady climb on foot out of the port, the viewpoint on top of Fox Hill Down was soon reached After a brief pause,
the walkers headed over the top of the White Cliffs in the direction of St Margaret’s Bay with a mid morning break for refreshments close to the South Foreland Lighthouse.
A picnic lunch and a rest on the top of Bockell Hill was another welcome break before descending the cliffs down to St Margaret’s Bay and The Coastguard Inn.
The amenities of the Inn were very much appreciated, particularly by our French friends! Suitably refreshed, we walked back to Dover quickly gaining height until the lighthouse
was reached. Different paths were then used following the edge of the cliffs. A slight descent into Langdon Hole was followed by an ascent and soon the National Trust
Information Centre and Café soon came into view. There was then another break and as luck would have it, we were all able to see the cliffs at Cap Gris-Nez
on the other side of the Channel. We had another refreshing drink (they seemed to drink a lot! - Ed), prior to the final descent back to the Eastern Docks in Dover.
Reluctantly, we then had to say goodbye to our 15 Mouvaux walking friends, after a very memorable day’s walking in such good company. We are now very much
looking forward to the next time.
David Everson
08.05.07
BUCKINGHAM CARNIVAL 2006
The theme this year was “Christmas over the world” so it was particularly appropriate that a large party came over from Mouvaux to take part.
They had a trying journey over the Channel owing to high winds but they eventually arrived tired but expectant late on Friday evening.
Most went to bed soon afterwards to prepare for the day ahead.
Saturday dawned bright and sunny and quite mild for a December morning. The parade assembled in Chandos Road to make ready to take part.
Seasoned observers said it was the longer ever and our visitors were quite surprised how big it was and how well supported by the town.
They had brought over two Flemish “giants” and it was fascinating to see how these were assembled and we were astonished to see the larger
one carried by just one brave man. We were however not surprised to be told that there were frequent change-overs during the parade itself (it took over an hour!).
Our visitors were well received by the crowds and we were pleased that they were awarded a third-place rosette, which was duly awarded to them in a festive
lunch in the Woolpack Inn afterwards.
For the rest of the afternoon our visitors wandered around the town and then all joined up in the Scrase home to celebrate the rest of the evening.
We were well blessed by some splendid food and the entertainment included a performance of the bagpipes: Stephanie is quite an expert at the playing
of these and our visitors had a go at the art of blowing.
They left on Sunday after much conversation and cordiality and the weekend was voted a great success by all who took part from the twin towns.
Geoffrey Shaw
20.12.06
BEAUJOLAIS "BARN" DANCE - December 2006
We were searching around for a bright idea to have some sort of gathering in the autumn, when our projected meeting with the Winslow Association
went into demise. I came up with the crazy notion of celebrating the arrival of Beaujolais Nouveau 2006 by drinking the same whilst dancing the
night away with some sort of country dancing.
It duly took place on 1 December and over 50 enjoyed a most popular and successful event. Sue Kelly of U3A fame led us in the dancing at the Well Street Centre
and those that took part coped well with the instructions. We enjoyed refreshments of cheese and pâté, procured from the French Market which had come
to Buckingham the week before, though we had use English unsalted butter and TESCO baguettes.
I never found a source for the Nouveau in Buckingham and ended up purchasing it in Wimbledon. We provided both 2005 and 2006 vintages
for the Beaujolais and to our surprise we found little difference between the two.
Geoffrey Shaw
20.12.06
FAMILY FUN BARBECUE - June 2006
Sunday lunchtime was the perfect timing for a fun day, which began with a pig roast. The whole event took place
in the beautiful setting of Clarissa House, Jane's home in Wappenham. At the gate the choice of main courses with drinks and pastries was greeted
with "oohs" and "aahs" and "what shall we have?". The pig was well roasted, the sausages griddled to a turn and the
quiches cried out to be savoured. Salads and fine wines complemented the meal perfectly.
An array of gazebos, tables with parasols and an arena bordered with hay bales, together with sideshows, a stilt walker, a trampoline,
unicyclists and jugglers exuded a festive air, which encouraged young and the not so young
to participate in the activities on offer. We were very happy to include a tombola and sale stall run by members of
Wappenham Church.
A very popular activity turned out to be a crockery smash, run by Nick, the local postman. Person afer person went back over and over again
to have a go to demolish a fine array of crockery. However the teapot still stands for another day! Old fashioned
races, organised by Ron and Muriel Gleeson, were a great hit with children and adults alike. We were also lucky to have the martial arts
team, who performed an exemplary display of their sport. Many spectators were surprised at the exceptionally
high standard of disdcipline and coordination. We were warned "not to try this at home"!!
All in all a great day and many thanks to Jane for making it all possible.
Freda Davies
09.07.06
MOUVAUX CIVIC VISIT NOVEMBER 2005
Now that hosts are getting to know Mouvaux friends better, the warmth of the welcome
as they stepped off their bus was really genuine. Newcomers to the Twinning experience
quickly caught the excitement and there began a truly happy weekend, sharing meals,
walks and interests while getting by in two languages.
Teenagers joined together for an
environment sortie along the Railway Walk followed by a discussion while other youngsters
took part in a karate class led by a national-level instructor and adults walked the town
to consider visitor perceptions.
The French group then hit the tourist trail to Oxford
where they enjoyed the Oxford Story buggies and marvelled at medieval colleges full of robed
graduates fresh from graduation (degrees in France come through the post!).
The party returned in time for the civic fireworks, the burning of Guy Fawkes (a very English affair!)
and a meal with hosts.
On Sunday the teenagers with their English counterparts spent the morning bowling at Xscape
(“very well organised!”) and eating “le fast-food”. Adults and hosts appreciated the slower
food of a superb civic lunch at the Community Centre, where gifts were exchanged and the French Mayor,
Patrick Balay, presented our chairman Jane Betts with a medal denoting the freedom of the town of Mouvaux,
in recognition of all her work for the Twinning process, a very high honour indeed.
It was a fitting end to a great weekend.
Valerie Shaw