Ickford Village is in Buckinghamshire. River Thames is in the south of the parish. The village has a church, Saint Nicholas, from the late 12th or early 13th century.
It also has a primary school, a pub, and a village hall. The Parish Council Meetings began in 1927. A lot has changed over the years. It is mainly due to the internet that people can now use to get all their news. However, in the past, the people got all their information from regular meetings held in the village hall.
The History Behind The Village Hall
The village hall began with Jim Garrett, Michael Kerrigan, Alex Neil, Glyn Smith, and John Taylor making a plan. The men had returned to the village after the war in 1945. They organized social evenings in a ‘‘Nissen Hut” in Thame, in a place called ”The Cattle Market.” Ickford had no social center, so the life of the people at that time was quite dull. These men decided that a village hall was of paramount importance. They held a public meeting at Ickford school and decided to try and build a village hall. Everyone knew that it was a great idea but one that required funding. Also, they had to obtain the necessary permits. Mr. Mace donated a piece of land, and Sir Floud got rid of all the legal obstacles. The architects designed the hall, knowing that only four skilled workmen could see the project. Lady Floud contributed a mural of the men busy at their work. People can still see it in the village hall.
A LIttle About The Parish Church
The church of Saint Nicholas dates back to the 12th century or early 13th century. It was the village’s heart and is a quiet, serene place to have with your thoughts. The bell tower is Norman and has a saddleback roof. The west tower has three bells. The window styles of the church are extraordinary, and the furniture is noteworthy. The tipping memorial has a theme on a famous monument in Burford. They have always been a small but active congregation. They celebrate their patronal festival once a year and put a child bishop on the throne. The Friends Group helps to raise funds to repair the church and the surrounding grounds. People of the congregation always come forward to assist in the form of flower arrangements, architects, and other skilled artisans.
The Primary School Is The Groundwork of the Future Generation
The Primary School educates children from ages 4-11. They aim to provide a safe and stimulating environment for the children. Due to the pandemic, they are ensuring a phased return of the students for the little ones’ safety. They also have ”wrap-around care” in the form of breakfast and an after-school club, so those who need these facilities can help quickly. This school is a charity, so they are looking for funds to help it progress. Hence, they depend mainly on input from parents and helpers. They welcome new committee members for their ideas and help.