Local bits: Tai Chi, Ash Lane anger, Vicarage demolished, Lane closure

Election Day - don't forget to vote - I've just been 'telling' down at the Maypole Hall in Paganhill - that's ticking off numbers to see who has voted - the idea then is to chase up the Green votes - barely a handful of voters came when I was there so I had a good chat with the Conservative 'teller' about local history, politics and more! Below is a quick roundup of local news bits.

Photos: Standish woods this week

Tai Chi Qui Gong in Randwick

Qui Gong is a gentle form of Tai Chi which can be done standing or from a chair. This is being promoted by the local Village Agent project (see more on this on blog entry for 25th October 2006) as it is particularly suitable for the older age group - benefits include improvement to balance and improved sleep. There will be a complimentary taster session for anyone over 50 living in Whiteshill, Randwick or Ruscombe in the Village Hall, Randwick at 11.45am on Friday 18th May. All in this age group are welcome – ring Village Agent Pam Thorne if you haven't already put your name down: 01453 751915 or 07776 245791. Lifts can be arranged if getting there would be difficult. If enough people are interested after trying it out, we hope to arrange a regular class.

Ash Lane anger at threat to wall

The SNJ this week did a piece looking at the proposed removal of the Cotswold stone wall along Ash Lane, Randwick as part of a planning application for a new house. The developer is quoted as saying he doesn't want the wall down either but that it is a highways authority demand to improve access to the site.

Cashes Green Vicarage comes down

Photo: SNJ's pic of Vicarage coming down.

The 1929 vicarage was designed by renowned architect Thomas Falconer in the arts and crafts style. Last week it was demolished despite efforts by many to save it. The Gloucester Diocese has planning permission to replace the building, considered one of just two important heritage sites in the ward, with five houses and a new, smaller four-bedroom vicarage. The large house, vacated in January by The Rev David Sutch who moved to Spain, was the only red-brick house built by Falconer - who also designed the rear extension to Stroud Subscription Rooms. I made a last minute appeal in writing to the Diocese but this was not taken on board - I'll do another blog later this month to update on this.

The Lane to close 15th May

The Lane in Randwick will close at the point opposite the Old School House between 9.30 and 2.30 on 15th May for work by Severn Trent.