10 Years Ago

HOLLYWOOD stars descended on a Chilterns village to shoot scenes for a new film. George Clooney, who stars in and is producing and directing Monuments Men, was among those who had their photos taken by residents of Fingest. Other actors who were spotted included Matt Damon, Cate Blanchett and Jean Dujardin, star of The Artist. Scenes from the wartime drama were shot at St Bartholomew’s Church and the cast and crew visited the village pub, the Chequers.

Traders in Henley say they are losing custom while an alleyway leading to their shops is closed. The passage from Market Place to Market Place Mews has been shut since Tuesday while work to widen it takes place. The work, which is for the development of 14 new flats above the shops, is expected to last six weeks. Sandy Pascall, who works at Sno and Sun Gear, said trade had already slumped.

A mermaid statue gifted to Henley has finally been unveiled. The 6ft bronze sculpture, which is called Ama of the Thames, is one of 20 to be installed at “places of beauty near water” around the world. The 370lb statue has been installed on Red Lion Lawn.