local lynx issue 51 - dec/jan 2007

DECEMBER 2006 &

JANUARY 2007

ISSUE 51

LOCAL LYNX BALE - BINHAM - COCKTHORPE - FIELD DALLING

GUNTHORPE - LANGHAM - MORSTON SAXLINGHAM - SHARRINGTON - STIFFKEY

NEWS FROM OUR VILLAGES

WISHING ALL READERS A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR

REALISE YOUR AMBITION - Learn a musical instrument this winter

Individual tuition for adults in your own home, at your pace, from a patient, qualified and experienced teacher on: Piano, Organ, Keyboard, Recorders, Saxophone, Brass.

Free loan instruments available.

Paul Wraith 01263 740533

BIRD-VENTURES Helping you to help our wildlife

We stock a huge range of wildlife products Open 9 - 5.30 Monday - Saturday

www.bird-ventures.co.uk

Quality Wild Bird Foods, Live Meal Worms, Bird Feeders, Bird Tables, Feeder Poles, Window Feeders, Sqirrel Baffles, Nesting boxes. Insect Homes for Bumble Bees, Solitary Bees,

Ladybirds, Lacewings & Butterflies. Pond Dipping Nets. Bat Boxes. Moth Traps. Butterfly Nets. Books. Videos. CDs.

Bird-Ventures 9B Chapel Yard, Albert Street, Holt,

Norfolk NR25 6HG Telephone 01263 710203 email [email protected]

Paintings, sculpture, ceramics & crafts. Contemporary prints, greetings cards,

jewellery & gifts

Comprehensive Framing Service Oils - Watercolours - Prints - Needlework - Medal Cases

Open Daily 10am - 5 pm

Hindringham Road, Great Walsingham, NR22 6DR Tel/Fax 01328 820900 Email:[email protected]

www.walsinghamgallery.co.uk

Gt. Walsingham Gallery & Picture Framing

Tel: 01328 830539

P.L.NASH - FAKENHAM

TV, FM and DIGITAL AERIALS FITTED

also SATELLITE DISHES

SUPPLIED AND ERECTED

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LOCAL LYNX - is a non-profit-making community newspaper, run for the benefit of ten villages.

We warmly welcome drawings, articles and letters for publication, but since we never know until shortly before publication how much material we will have, we must reserve the right to edit entries. We prefer to edit rather than to omit items alto-gether.

For information about submitting items for publi-cation and about distribution, or if you want to help in any other way, please contact your village representative

For general information please ring 01328-830056. Address: Local Lynx, 28 Binham Road, Langham, Holt NR25 7AB.

email: [email protected].

COPY FOR FEBRUARY/MARCH ISSUE REQUIRED BY 9th JANUARY

WHAT’S ON in our 10 villages

DECEMBER 2006

1st Fri. Binham Village Hall - Fayre Meeting 7.30 2nd Sat. Binham 100+ Club Christmas Supper 2nd Sat. Langham Village School Fair. 10.00 - 2.00 2nd Sat. Langham Parish Room FOL Coffee 10 - 12 4th Mon. Binham Chequers Quiz Night 6th Wed. Stiffkey Music Group. 7.00 12th Tues. Langham Carols at the Carmel 13th Wed. Langham Parish Room Carols, 7.00 16th Sat. Gunthorpe FOGCP Christmas Party 12.00 16th Sat. Langham Ladybirds to Thursford 18th Mon. Binham Hist. Group. ‘Christmas Past’ 19th Tues. Binham Carols around the Tree. 7.00 20th Wed. Langham Parish Room FOL Coffee 10 - 12 21st Thurs. Langham Mobile Library 25th Sat. Gunthorpe 50/50 Club, 10.30 31st Sun. Binham Chequers ‘ Heroes & Villains. 6.00

JANUARY 2007

3rd Wed. Binham Chequers Quiz Night 6th Sat. Langham Parish Room FOL Coffee 10 - 12 11th Thurs. Langham Mobile Library 17th Wed. Langham Parish Room FOL Coffee 10 - 12 19th Fri. Morston PCC Meeting 20th Sat. Binham Village Hall. Race Night. 6.45 23rd Tues. Langham Parish Council. Parish Room 7.00 24th Wed. Morston Parish Council 25th Thurs. Binham Hist. Group AGM & Open Eve. 7.30 27th Sat. Gunthorpe FOGCP Coffee 10.30 30th Tues. Langham Ladybirds to Cley Pantomime

PLEASE NOTE: CONTACT FOR ADVERTISERS

For enquiries about advertising in Local Lynx, please contact David John, tel: 01328-830933

Rates for advertising (pre-paid) are: One column x 62 mm (1/8 page): £60 for six issues.

Small Ads Panel on the back page: Available for individuals and businesses providing local services. Allocated on first-paid, first-in basis. Cost: £5 per issue.

NORMAN LAMB M.P. holds regular advice surgeries in the constituency. He can also be contacted via the constituency office at: 15 Market Place North Walsham Norfolk NR28 9BP Tel: 01692 403752 Fax: 01692 500818 e-mail: [email protected] www.normanlamb.org

DEANERY NEWS The next Deanery Synod meeting will be on Thursday March 8th 2007 - 7.15 pm for 7.30 pm, at St Andrew’s Church Hall, Holt. At this meeting the Deanery Plan will be discussed. Prior to this, the document will have been made available for PCCs and the general pubic to view and discuss. For further details contact your local Deanery Synod representative.

BLAKENEY CATHOLIC CHURCH Father Michael Simison 12, Hindringham Road, Gt. Walsingham, Norfolk. NR22 6DR Tel:01328 821353 Service Times: Sunday Mass 10.30am. Thurs. & Sat. evenings 6.00pm.

METHODIST CHURCH Minister - Reverend Rosemary Wakelin Tel. 01263 712181 For services at Blakeney and Holt see ‘Glaven Valley Newsletter’ or ‘Holt Chronicle’.

PAINTING & GENERAL REPAIRS INTERIOR & EXTERIOR

free estimates & advice - established 1986

KARL HUNT Tel: 01328 820209

Mobile: 077 66 00 33 84

large or small

Birds Farm Walsingham Road

Hindringham NR21 0BT

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HC = Holy Communion. FS = Family Service. MP = Morning Prayer. EP = Evening Prayer. BCP = Book of Common Prayer All Communion Services are in traditional language except those marked *

Saturday 23rd December: 4pm Family service and Nativity Play at Binham, 5pm Carol service at Morston, 6pm Candlelit Carol service at Cockthorpe. Sunday 31st December: Group Holy Communion Service, 10.30am at Field Dalling .

Regular Weekday Services: Binham: Tuesday 6.00pm Evening Prayers. Langham: Wednesday 10.00am Holy Communion

Stiffkey: Friday 10.00 am Holy Communion.

Parish 3rd December 10th December 17th December 24th December 25th December

Bale 9.30am HC 9.30am HC 9.30am HC 11.30pm HC No service Field Dalling At Saxlingham At Saxlingham 11.00am Carols 11.30pm HC At Saxlingham Gunthorpe 11.00am MP 9.30am HC No Service No service 11.00am HC Saxlingham 9.30am HC 3.30pm Christingle At Field Dalling At Field Dalling 10.00am FS

Sharrington 9.30am MP 9.30am HC 5pm Carol service No service 9.30am HC

Binham 11.00am HC 11.00am HC 11.00am FS 11am HC,11pm HC 10.30am FS, Carols Langham 9.30am FS 9.30am HC 9.30am HC 11.30pm HC No service

Morston 9.30am HC/BCP No Service 9.30am HC/BCP No Service 9.30am HC/BCP

Stiffkey 11.00am HC 11.00am HC* 8.00am HC* 11am Christingle 11.00am HC

Parish 7th January 14th January 21st January 28th January

Bale 9.30am HC 9.30am HC 9.30am HC 9.30am HC

Field Dalling At Saxlingham 11.00am HC At Saxlingham 11.00am MP

Gunthorpe 11.00am MP 9.30am HC No Service 11.00am HC

Saxlingham 9.30am HC At Field Dalling 11.00am HC/BCP At Field Dalling

Sharrington 9.30am MP 9.30am HC 9.30am MP 9.30am HC

Binham 11am HC /3.30pm Carols 11.00am HC 11.00am FS 9.30am HC

Langham 9.30am HC* 9.30am HC 9.30am HC 11.00am FS

Morston 9.30am HC/BCP No service 9.30am HC/BCP No Service

Stiffkey 11.00am HC 11.00am HC* 8.00am HC* 11.00am FS

SPECIAL CAROL AND CHRISTMAS SERVICES

AND THOSE FOR JANUARY

RECTOR’S MESSAGE However hard we search inside our Christmas stockings, we won’t find the essence of Christmas. We can’t find the true meaning of the season under a Christmas tree. In fact, we may find that the layers of wrapping paper make ‘finding’ Christmas even harder. But giving gifts is at the centre of our Christmas celebration. Present-buying may have become tangled up in consumerism, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy being able to give to each other out of love. After all, God loves to give good gifts: ‘If you then … know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask him! (these are words taken from Christian Aid for Christmas 2006) Soon it will be the season of Advent - four Sundays to prepare for the Feast of Christmas. If you do want to look beyond the trappings and wrappings that surround Christmas these days to the heart of the Feast, why not use those four Sundays to see if you can spot the real meaning of Christmas as you get ready?

Advent 1 Dec. 3rd - Decide this Sunday to go without a small treat (that pint or that magazine) once this coming week, and instead give the money to one of the charities for homeless people, like Shelter. Advent 2 Dec. 10th - Decide this Sunday to make space to be alone for 10 minutes, light a candle, sit quietly and thank God for all the light that is in your life and think about one place in the world that is overshadowed by war and violence. Ask for light and peace for those people and that nation. Advent 3 Dec. 17th - Decide this Sunday, on one occasion this week, to make a selfless act of goodness towards someone you find it really hard to like. Advent 4 Christmas Eve - As you put the finishing touches to your preparations, make time today to thank God for those who love you, those whom you love and for the greatest gift at Christmas, Jesus, Love who came to live among us, Love who gave his whole life for us. Joanna and Peter and their family wish you all a very blessed Christmas and a happy New Year. Rev’d Joanna Anderson Tel 01328 830246

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PRINTING EXTRA COPIES Sadly we can’t afford to print extra copies for visitors to take away, Could householders write ‘Please do not take away’ on holiday home copies.

NORWICH & NORFOLK VOLUNTARY SERVICES Do you have some time to spare? Would you like a fresh challenge or to make new friends. You can make a real difference to someone’s life. Norwich &Norfolk Voluntary Services urgently need volunteers to assist with varied requests in your area - visiting people at home, driving, day care centres, gardening, conservation and more. A couple of hours a week or only an hour or two a month - there is something for you. You will meet new people, learn new skills and have some fun! Contact local co-ordinator Polly Hind - 01328 862751 or email [email protected]

2007 - A YEAR OF CHANGE

On Saturday 13th January, at 10 am, we are holding an open meeting at Langham Parish Room, to set in motion the changes we plan to introduce during the next twelve months about managing the publication of Local Lynx. As summarised in our last issue, Lynx has been produced for the past seven years by the same editorial team, with increasing help as years have gone by. Now, to ensure the future of the paper, we must develop a second editorial team to share the task of producing the paper, so that its publication is no longer totally dependent on a very few people. The victim of its own success, it is not an option to miss an issue of the paper if illness, family commitments (or holidays!) clash with our tight deadlines for putting together the news from each village, general news, other features (the Church Service panel, ‘What’s on’ etc.) and setting up the fair copy to send to our printers. The ‘deadline’ (9th of the month preceding the date of publication) is the start of a frantic spell of copy-typing, text-correcting, advertisement-assembling, proof-reading, cut-&-pasting and publishing, which must be completed within six days. Coffee stays on the boil, computers glow hot and tempers fray! Luckily, we now have the (unpaid and unstinting) help of a professional manager who has been working with us to untangle the complex working practices we have developed over those seven years. As he says, ‘The way to eat an elephant is to cut it into small pieces’. We may not fancy eating elephant but we do have to face changes - changes which will break down and simplify what we do, so that helping to produce the paper becomes an un-daunting task for further helpers. Our new publishing process will be built around the lap-top computer already used in the production of the paper. This carries all the software needed by the publication (kindly provided by Microsoft under their community support programme). It is intended that the paper will also get its own email address, together with transferable document storage. It is essential that changes do not upset any of our regular helpers, people who provide invaluable support for the paper and its content. The changes must increase possibilities, not reduce them. So - anyone from our ten villages, or anyone else with ideas or comments to put forward, is invited to come to the meeting in Langham on 13th January. The future of the paper depends on all those who value it. Please do come. Oh, and coffee will be provided!

Simon Poole MRSC Oil Fired Appliance Technician

Servicing, Commissioning and

Installation of Oil Fired Appliances including Tank Storage

All work certificated to National Standards

Tel: 07899 835855 Fax: 01263 862140

Email: [email protected]

Registered Business

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HAMLYN PEST CONTROL

RODENT, RABBIT, MOLE, WASP and INSECT control by a professional, friendly

service, specialising in farm, domestic and retail

premises

www.hamlynnorfolk.co.uk

(01263) 860112

YOUTH GROUP HELPERS WANTED

Local youth groups are in need of helpers to support their growing numbers of children. You have to be willing to have a CRB (Criminal Record Bureau) check, normal for anyone working with children these days, but of course every parent wants to know that their child is as safe as possible in all circumstances. It is only a couple of hours a week and is an enjoyable way of teaching our children new things and making new friends. It is FUN! To learn more about helping the youth in our communities, especially Briston and Melton Constable, please call Andrea Surridge - 01263 587503.

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POETRY COMPETITION - WINNING POEM Our poetry competition, run throughout the summer, attracted an interesting range of work. The winner was chosen, according to an elaborate system of ranking, by the members of the Support Group which administers the paper. Our contratulations go to Jacqueline Dawson for writing the winning poem in our competition. She asked that her prize of £25 should be go to the Blakeney Twelve.

LOVE’S LIFE RECIPE Jacqueline Dawson

Here I’ve stood for many years, I’ve heard the laughter and the tears,

I remember Lady, still a bride Burnt the dinner - how she cried. She said, ‘I can’t get on with that,

It’s got a faulty thermostat.’

The Man caressed her, kissed her lips And took her out for fish and chips.

In time she learned how we would cook, Learning from a recipe book.

We turned out dishes by the score, Hot pots, casseroles, roasts galore.

When baby came, I warmed the milk And looked at Lady dressed in silk.

The guests enquired,’ How long did it take, To make the lovely christening cake?’

Grandchildren, now, eat christmas dinner, Shout, ‘Good old Gran, another winner.’

But Lady’s gone, the kitchen’s cold,

Days are long, the Man is old. His family now, are dressed in black

And memories, bitter-sweet come back. ‘It’s ancient Dad, you can’t take that.

It won’t look right in your brand new flat.’

He turns, and gives me one last look. We remember when she couldn’t cook.

A WINDOW ON YOUR WORLD LOCAL LYNX clearly does an excellent job in communicating with the communities which it is aimed to serve. But it also does another job in providing an insight (and sometime inspiration) for those of us who are occasional visitors to this delightful part of Norfolk. Whenever we are in the area we call in at one of your beautiful churches to pick up a copy of LOCAL LYNX and are always amazed at the range of activities and events. Long may you flourish! Margaret & Jim Helliwell, Warwick

ALLCLEAN The CARPET Cleaning Specialists

Cleaning in the Blakeney, Cley, Holt area

Will professionally clean the carpet in any sized room for only £37.50 or 3-piece suites from only £58.00

We professionally clean: Homes, Hotels, Clubs, Pubs, Patios, Driveways, Oriental Rugs, Upholstery, Curtains and

Car Interiors.

Tel: FREEPHONE 0800 6985055 Discounts for Senior Citizens

ALLCLEAN IS A FULLY INSURED CLEANING COMPANY

Registered to carry out audit work and regulated for a range of investment business activities

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KATHRYN GIGG Chartered Accountants, Business Advisers

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Personal Tax Returns & Self Assessment Advice ▪ Annual Accounts & Audit ▪ Independent Pension & Investment

Advice ▪ VAT Returns ▪ Payroll & Book-keeping Service

For an appointment please contact

Mrs K H Gigg, FCA on 01485 534800 The Office, 20 King’s Lynn Road, Hunstanton PE36 5HP

CLEY W.I. Dec. 7th CHRISTMAS LUNCH and ANNUAL MEETING 12.30 pm at Cley Village Hall Jan. 4th NEW YEAR SURPRISE MEETING 2.30 pm at Cley Village Hall. Please pay subs at this meeting.

AIR AMBULANCE Presentation by The Rita Rogers Fundraisers, followed by the presentation of a plaque in memory of Rita at The Copeman Centre, Briston’s Village Hall, on Sunday 10th December at 2pm. All welcome.

Last year’s presentation, shortly before Rita died, was tinged with the sadness of her passing.

She had spent so much time, with her friends, raising money for charities like the air ambulance and hospices. For that she was due to receive the award of MBE in the New Year’s Honours List. She and her friends were known locally as the Fab Five. With their support she carried on fundraising throughout her treatment. Now, her memory lives on with the help of her friends who continue to raise money under the name of the Rita Rogers Fundraisers. So, if you see them, please support their good causes.

LANGHAM VILLAGE SCHOOL CHRISTMAS FAIR

Saturday 2nd December 10.00 am - midday

Toy Stall, Books, Videos, Games, Raffle, Tombola, Bric-a-brac, Cakes,

Crafts, Santa’s grotto … and more

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DISTRICT COUNCILLORS’ NOTEBOOKS

From Bernard Crowe, OBE Local government reorganisation In December Sir Michael Lyons will present the final recommendations from his independent review, which will center on local government finance and the role and responsibilites of councils. We expect the White Paper will set out choices and options for councils and residents to consider. NNDC agrees that decision making should be brought closer to the people affected, but is also well aware of the dangers of building up expectations faster than we can deliver services Partnership and Area Forums Public services need to be more responsive, and citizens and communities need a bigger say in how services are run. Over the winter a new community ownership and management review will take place considering how to transfer assets to local communities, and hoping to make community ownership and management of, for instance, community halls, libraries and sports grounds, a regular part of local life It is suggested that Morston, Langham and Field Dalling will join the Wells partnership, though it seems that membership is open to negotiation. Funding Freeze It is likely that local government could face a settlement well below those of recent years, based on its recent strong performance in delivering efficiency savings. NNDC faces also the challenge of delivering services built around individual needs. Spies in Bins I have been asked about the possible use by NNDC of electronic chips in our waste bins. Those introduced in N. Norfolk 2 years ago have bin-chips, which originally cost £1 per bin and now would cost £5 per bin to retrofit them. Why are they there? They could allow a Local Authority to make accurate records of the number and weight of bins lifted, figures that can be linked to a property. This in preparation for a possible introduction of a ‘pay as you throw’ system of charging for waste collection. There are no current plans to change the present system. To read the bin-chips, all collection vehicles would need weighing equipment, not at present available - so NNDC is not collecting any information today. To procure weighing equipment would require Full Council agreement. Why were bin-chips fitted? Apparently it made long term economic sense in case Government changes the present way we operate. Watch this space!

From Jonathan Savory Recycling N. N. District Council have launched their Green Bin Code, aiming to recycle as much of our waste as we can. In your green wheelie bin you can recycle newspapers, mags, cardboard, catalogues, phone books and yellow pages, aluminiun and steel food and drink cans, empty aerosols and plastic bottles. A recycling bank for cardboard drinks cartons has

proved so sucessful at Wells recycling centre it is now to be expanded to other sites. The council are also committed to composting green garden waste. A brown wheelie bin for this purpose costs £30 per annum and will be collected fortnightly. To order a brown bin tel. 01263 516301. Our District Councillors are: Bernard Crowe OBE: Field Dalling with Saxlingham, Morston and Sharrington (with Brinton) (01263 740137, email: [email protected]). Jonathan Savory: (01328 820719, email. [email protected].) and Joyce Trett (01328 710300) - Binham, Langham and Stiffkey. Mrs A.R.Green: (01328 878273) - Gunthorpe with Bale.

Telephone (01263) 713113

Funeral Director: Mrs Zoe Mitchell, N.A.F.D.

11a Avenue Road, High Kelling,

Holt, Norfolk NR25 6RD

LLOYD DURHAM FUNERAL SERVICES

THE TIME OF YOUR LIFE In the time of your life, live - so that in that good time there shall be no ugliness or death for yourself or for any life your life touches. Seek goodness everywhere, and when it is found, bring it out of its hiding place and let it be free and unashamed.

Place in matter and in flesh the least of the values, for these are things that hold death and must pass away. Discover in all things that which shines and is beyond corruption.

Encourage virtue in whatever heart it may have been driven into secrecy and sorrow, by the shame and terror of the world.

Ignore the obvious, for it is unworthy of the clear eye and the kindly heart Be the inferior of no man, nor of any man be the superior. Remember that every man is a variation of yourself. No man’s guilt is not yours, nor is any man’s innocence a thing apart. Despise evil and ungodliness, but not men of ungodliness or evil. These understand. Have no shame in being kindly and gentle, but if the time comes in the time of your life to kill, kill and have no regret. In the time of your life, live - so that in that wonderous time you shall not add to the misery and sorrow of the world, but shall smile to the infinite delight and mystery of it. William Saroyan, 1940 (Submitted by Peter Coke of Sharrington)

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GLAVEN DISTRICT CARING

Volunteers needed for a variety of support to our local community - perhaps you could spare a few hours a month to assist others by either:

Driving our brand new minibus to transport clients from their homes to the Glaven Centre, or perhaps helping to assist the driver on either a Monday, Wednesday or Friday. Full training will be given.

Assisting our nursing auxiliary with bathing, perhaps helping to serve coffee or help with serving Lunches, this only entails two or three hours per month of your time, but means such a great deal to the clients that would not be able to remain in their own homes if we were unable to offer the services we provide for them on their regular visit to the Centre.

Please contact Maureen Buckey at Thistleton Court, Blakeney on 01263 740762 for further details, or feel free to visit and discuss any time or help you may be able to offer.

ROBIN the HOOD

A new-age Robin, written and directed by Peter Franklin, will be staged by the Blakeney Players in Blakeney Village Hall in January. You will be royally entertained by the singing and dancing, and amused and amazed at the goings-on - there’s the usual suspects in tights. You will groan with disgust at the evil Sheriff and his gut-wrenching antics, and hold your breath in suspense as Robin attempts to rescue the fair Marian. Tickets on sale from 4th Dec. Adults £6, children £2. Ring Butcher Andrews, Holt. Tel: 01263 712023. 6th Sat. Fundraising night. (Proceeds to school bus for Blakeney & Hindringham Primary school) Doors open 7.15 - free glass of wine. Curtain up - 8.00 11th and 18th Thurs. Starts - 8.00 13th Sat. Supper night, 6.30 for 7.00 start. Tickets £20. 14th Sun. Matinee performance, starts - 3.00.

WELLS AREA PARTNERSHIP Community Chest

Wells Area Partnership (WAP) is one of seven Area Partnerships across N. Norfolk that has been set up by local people and NNDC to help communities work together. Working across parish boundaries and alongside Parish and Town Councils, Police, Health Service, voluntary groups and individuals, WAP aims to bring together ideas, assess needs, pool resources and increase communication between groups to help in the long term development of the area. This includes looking at housing, health provision, business, employment, learning and skills, safety, young/older people, the environment, transport, sport and leisure opportunities. WAP has links across the district to the other partnerships so that issues are networked and solutions found.

WAP is giving local groups and organisations in Wells and surrounding parishes the chance to receive funding of up to £2,000 per project from their Community Chest Fund.

This Fund has been set up to enable community groups to access funds easily and quickly for small projects. The area covered includes Walsingham, Burnham Market, Burnham Thorpe, Burnham Overy, North & South Creake, Blakeney, Cley, Morston, Field Dalling, Hindringham, Binham, Wighton, Warham, Stiffkey, Holkham, Langham and Wells.

Funding is available to non-profit organisations who help the community in one form or another, ie. parish and town councils or voluntary organisations who help the community with a direct impact on the WAP area.

There is a total of £10,000 available for local projects and applications should be for a minimum of £200 and a maximum of £2,000, projects which help to start or develop activities for young people, health, recreation, environmental based projects and those which directly benefit the business and wider community of WAP. Deadlines for applications are as follows: 4th Dec. 06, 5th Feb. 07, 5th March 07.

For more information email Fiona Maccallum at - [email protected] or ring her on 01328 711378.

Partners: ROGER FLOOD ANDY TURNER

Phones: 01328 878357 01263 712905

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FAKENHAM CHORAL SOCIETY’S CHRISTMAS CONCERT

St Nicolas - by Benjamin Britten Special guest, the celebrated tenor Ian Partridge.

Christmas carols, readings, mulled wine, free mince pies. Fakenham Parish Church, Sat. 16th December, 7.30 pm

Tickets £9 (under 18 free) on the door or phone 01328 830639

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For Church Services see Panel on Page 3

PRESENT VILLAGE REP After being your village rep. for a number of years, it is now time to hand over to someone else in order to bring fresh ideas and a different slant on the contributions from Bale residents. Many thanks to those of you who have assisted me in finding items for the paper, and special thanks to Eileen who cheerfully delivers the Lynx to all houses in Bale, rain or shine.

Jane Wheeler takes over as from now and I hope you will support her in her endeavours to fill more columns in the Lynx! Sue Berry

BALE’S NEW VILLAGE REP I would like to introduce myself as the new rep for Bale. I have been living in Sharrington Road, Bale for almost six years, getting my cottage renovated gradually by two really good local builders (AJ Cunningham of Hindringham). I design high end fashion knitwear for a living, but my real passion is making pots. My particular interests are local archaeology, geology and history, and I will probably be most active in finding contributors along these lines, but I would be most grateful for all contributions, details of local activities, fundraising, sports, natural history, farming, new Bale residents, in fact anything which affects the village, even in quite minor ways. I hope those of you who have some local knowledge and history of the village can be persuaded to part with facts, stories or myths, too precious to be lost, as so many of us are comparatively recent arrivals and are woefully ignorant about the place we inhabit. Also welcome are recipes, seasonal or not, walks, gardening tips, any sort of useful tips in fact; from a few lines to more ambitious efforts. Let’s get Bale spread over more than one column! Jane Wheeler Tel. 01328 878656 email : [email protected]


BINHAM TO CELEBRATE 900 YEARS OF ROYAL CHARTER

The best of the Middle Ages will be revived in Binham next summer: all the fun of a mediaeval feast and a fayre, complete with minstrels, serving wenches, wrongdoers in the stocks and men in tights. Binham will be celebrating 900 years of the Royal Charter, granted by Henry I, allowing the village to hold an annual fayre. So, here's a note for your 2007 diary (or illuminated parchment scroll). A Mediaeval Weekend of music, games, entertainment for all the family and other Merry England-style diversions will take place from Friday to Sunday, August 3 to 5. The weekend's celebrations will begin with a concert in the Priory Church on the Friday evening. The next high point will be a mediaeval banquet in the village hall on the Saturday evening, open to residents of Binham and Cockthorpe. It will be a Middle Ages spread with a feast redolent of the period, drinks to match and live entertainment. The major event will be a Mediaeval Fayre on the Sunday afternoon, expected to spread across two venues - the village green and the playing field at the village hall. It will provide something for everyone: stalls, displays of traditional skills, games for children of all ages, music and other attractions - and a range of horrible fates for wrong-doers. The weekend's programme was discussed at a village meeting on October 20. The next village meeting will take place on Friday, December 1, at 7.30pm in Binham village hall. If you would like to help in any way or can offer suggestions to be included in the programme of activities do come along on Dec 1 and see what's up. If you are unable to come but have some ideas please get in touch with Richard Lewis (830723) or Liz Brown (830519).

Contact: Jane Wheeler 01328 878 656

BALE News Contact: Carolyn Wright

Tel: 01328 830270 Fax: 01328 830840


BINHAM News

First class service for permanent or holiday homes in the North Norfolk area and beyond

For further details or to arrange a visit call Roy Findlater on:

01328 830442 or 07818 422625 e-mail: [email protected]

General house & building repairs Painting & decorating Garden maintenance (clearance, weeding, new borders etc) Lawn and grass cutting Hedge cutting

No job too small - Free estimates - References given

INSIDE - OUTSIDE House & Garden Maintenance

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HERBERT WAITES

Herbert George Waites, born overlooking the Green in Binham on March 26, 1915, died in his sleep on November 2, in his own bed in his own home. He was 91 years old.

"This is the best summer I've had for years," he told his daughter, Jean, just a fortnight before he died. He sat out in the garden most days, in his special armchair, enjoying the flowers and the birds.

Herbert's wife, Olive, died in April, 2004. He leaves his daughter, Jean Griffin, his son-in-law, Roger, and his grandson, Duncan.

Herbert went to school in Binham and lived in the village until he married Olive Hudson in June, 1939. They began their married life at Field House Cottages, Hindringham, and never left. Herbert was the oldest resident in Hindringham, but always thought of himself as a Binham boy at heart.

He spent all his working life as a skilled carpenter and joiner with several big firms in the county and also at RAF Coltishall, the Bacton gas terminal and the new County Hall in Norwich. He retired from Fishers of Fakenham at 65. Many houses in and around Binham are still furnished with his hand-made windows, doors and staircases.

During the war years Herbert served with the army in France, Germany and Austria. Jean, his little daughter, cried when he came home, frightened by this strange man she didn't know. Jean was born at Field House Cottages and when she and Roger married they moved into the cottage next door. In recent years they have cared constantly for her parents.

Herbert always enjoyed doing his garden, digging it all by hand. He especially loved his vegetables, leaving the flowers to Olive.

He was also a familiar and cheerful figure riding his bicycle locally. Until he was 86, he cycled each afternoon. For years he rode to Bale, Field Dalling, Binham then home and, more recently, just to Binham, where he liked to sit near the village sign or at the church yard.

Latterly Herbert had been going to Cranmer House on Tuesdays and Thursdays, which he thoroughly enjoyed. Just days before he died he sat smiling in a tall, black witch's hat at their Halloween party.

Herbert's dear grandson, Duncan, came to say goodbye to him on the Sunday before he died. Duncan, a pea harvester specialist, was off to New Zealand for one of his regular working assignments. Herbert gave him a wave and smiled. "Cheerio," he said, "I'll see you when you get back."

Herbert Waites was buried in Binham churchyard beside Olive on Nov 10.

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CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS SERVICE

Saturday 23rd December at 4 p.m. in the Priory. If your children would like to take part, do call Lucy at 0785 220 3359.

BINHAM LOCAL HISTORY GROUP We have enjoyed evenings with Michael Begley and Susan Maddock and Martin Hayward-Smith. The two-day course on Researching the History of your House was a great success. Tracy Warnes fired our enthusiasm and consequently the Norfolk Record Office has seen quite an influx of Binham-ites. Alison and Richard Snowden are achieving great results and have already traced their Almshouse back to the early 1600’s – and hope to bring this information to our Open Evening in January (see below). We hope to get a better idea of the actual age of the houses when Adam Longcroft, Lecturer in Regional Studies and Academic Director at UEA, visits us in December. Monday 18th December. Come and celebrate the Festive Season with a talk about “Christmas Past”. Our speaker will be Katrina Siliprandi, lecturer at Norwich Castle. Christmas Cake and Fizz for all. Hope to see you there. Thursday 25th January AGM and Open Evening - when members bring items of interest to share with us all. So please, if you have any photographs, books or maps of Binham past or present do let us see them. All meetings at 7.30 in the Village Hall. £2 non members. £1 members. For more information call Carolyn at 01328 830270.

POPPY COFFEE MORNING We made £638.75 for the British Legion at Priory Cottage on 10th November. Wonderful! Congratulationsand very many thanks to all who came and all who helped. Carolyn

10

DIARY OF A BINHAM FARMER’S SON

1840

Oct 24 This day we committed the remains of dear John to the grave there to dissolve into its original nothingness. Uncle John's phaeton and chaise came for us. Oct 27 Mr Grant brought Miss Blandy home today - he does not appear to think her perfectly safe. Father rode her this afternoon and went very quietly indeed.

Oct 28 I rode Miss Blandy this morning and she went perfectly quietly. Grandpa was taken ill yesterday. Nov 3 The bullocks at the limekiln barn were taken with the prevalent epidemic.

Nov 7 I went to Snoring fox hunting but we had very moderate sport. Poor old Tom Dalton had his collar bone broken by one of the ill bullocks.

Nov 26 Father made the same price for his barley as I did last week. Sold some pease at £1, some at 19/-.

Dec 10 I found myself at Burnham this morning very comfortably situated. We had a party in the evening - very pleasant.

Dec 11 This was the Burnham coursing meeting - they had a capital day's sport. Mrs Gilpin dined there and we were very merry.

Dec 14 I went to Holkham sale at Longlands where the stock were worse than I had seen them. Dined, danced etc. at Overmars, got to bed by 3.

Dec 19 I went out to look for snipe but could not find one, shot some pigeons for Booty.

Dec 24 Father sold his barley at 16/2d to Blakeney. Charlie got home about one o'clock, we dined at 6 and made punch.

Dec 31 We all dined at Old Walsingham, Sir Thomas Curteis dined with us, we were all home in good time for bed. Norah and Richard Lewis

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SLOE GIN COMPETITION

The competition was held on 29th September at the Harvest Supper. Andrew Cuthbert and John Hill were our enthusiastic judges. There were Sloe Gins, Raspberry Gins, Blackcurrant Gins, Damson Gins, Raspberry Vodka and more. The judging was strict! Marks out of 50 were divided into: Presentation 5; Clarity 5; Colour 5; Bouquet 10; Flavour, Balance and Clarity 25. Winners were: Sloe Gin Nouveau: 1. Mike & Sue Jeffrey, 2 Bill Coombe, 3. John Abel. Sloe Gin Vintage: 1. David Frost, 2. Jean Calvert, 3. Tony Barnham. Keeper’s Delight (anything with spirit) 1. Anna Small’s Raspberry Gin, 2. Beverly Taylor’s Damson Gin, 3. Marie Grange’s Blackcurrant Gin. It has been a wonderful year for soft fruits so let’s hope that there will be lots more entries next year. Carolyn Wright

BINHAM GROUP OF ARTISTS

The Group consists of anyone interested in Art or Craft, beginner or otherwise. Artists with professional experience form part of the Group and will gladly give advice if needed. We meet every Tuesday morning from 10 to 12 in the Village Hall. A fee of £2 per morning includes coffee and biscuits. A demonstration of painting and craftwork normally takes place on the first Tuesday of every month. In September Martin Sexton gave us a very enjoyable and instructive demonstration and talk, and in October Janet Beckett also used watercolour to complete an excellent demonstration painting. For further information contact James Bucknill at 01328 830651.

BINHAM RECIPE BOOK

WE NEED YOU! Where are all your favourite recipes? They do not have to be original. Please copy out a favourite recipe and either drop it in to my address, 1 Field Dalling Road or give it to Trevor at the shop who will pass it on to me. The purpose of the book is to raise funds for the Priory Access and Conservation Project, which will provide disabled access and toilet facilities. Many thanks to those of you who have already given me a recipe. Brenda Wilde

THE GLAVEN CARING GROUP

The Glaven and District Caring Group has a new representative for Binham, Christine Hill. She can be contacted on 01328 830378. The A.G.M. for the Glaven District Caring Committee is at the Glaven Centre in Blakeney on Monday 27th November at 7.30pm. Members of the public are invited to attend.

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NEWS FROM OUR PARISH CLERK

The White Paper on the future of Local Government – Strong and Prosperous Communities – was published on the 27th of October. There are 247 pages of the usual Government gobbledegook, and ploughing through it as I have, reading about half word for word and skimming the other half, it all seems a bit of an anticlimax. For a start, the Parishes are hardly mentioned. Most of the text concerns District, County and Borough Councils. There is, certainly, a hint that Parishes are valued, because they will be making it easier for Parishes to be set up in areas that don’t have them at present. And in future they can change their names if the local people want it. So we could have The Metropolis of Morston, Beautiful Binham, Lovely Langham, and Glorious Gunthorpe!

But will any of their functions change? Well, again there are hints. There is an idea that “community assets” would be better looked after at local level. The suggestion seems to be that some of the village halls, and similar properties that were taken from the Parishes in 1974 and passed to the District Councils, should be given back. In many cases these have suffered years of neglect, but it remains to be seen whether they will be brought back to a decent standard before being handed over.

There could also be, as expected, a greater role for Quality Councils. These are those Councils that have gone through a series of hoops to prove that they are “toeing the line”. A qualified clerk, 80% of the Councillors elected (as opposed to co-opted) and at least six meetings a year, being just some of the criteria required. In our area only Cromer and North Walsham meet the standards at present, although Holt and Wells will probably be added to the list during 2007. Most of the smaller Parishes haven’t bothered to work towards the required standard – it may become increasingly worthwhile to do so as the years go by.

There is also talk of an increasing role for Local Area Strategic Partnerships. At the moment these are relatively new, and still floundering about trying to find a role for themselves. In North Norfolk LSPs have been (or are being) set up centred around the 7 Towns. Locally this means Wells, Holt and Fakenham. In our area they are “cash rich” because they are being funded by the extra Council Tax raised from second homes. (The difference between the 50% and the 10% discount). At the moment they are self-appointed and unaudited, and consequently the complete opposite of a Parish (or any other) Council. The White Paper suggests that they should be “Councillor led” which is not happening locally at the moment. But they may become affiliations of the local Parishes in future.

And other news – Community Policing comes to our area on the 12th of February. There will be one police constable and three police constable support officers centred on Wells and another PC and four PCSO’s centred on Fakenham. This is the result of Government policy to see more “uniforms on the streets” and should be a big improvement on the present system. At the

moment there is a belief (probably not wrong) that crimes occurring on a Friday night in North Norfolk will get a poor police response because all the available officers in Norfolk are outside the clubs in Prince of Wales Road in Norwich. Community Policing will improve that situation. On the other hand, the Government funding for the initiative only lasts a couple of years at present. What happens after that? – your guess is as good as the Chief Constable’s! Keith Leesmith - [email protected]

HEROES AND VILLAINS at the Chequers Inn

This New Year’s Eve Alex and Steve are holding a Heroes and Villains fancy dress evening with a prize for the best costume and a £1 fine for anyone in plain clothes! (all fines donated to the RNLI). There will also be a free buffet late in the evening so if you have always wanted to dress as Wonderwoman or Winston Churchill, go along to the Chequers this New Year’s Eve! Open from 6 p.m. ‘til late! Alex and Steve 830297

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A NEW YEAR’S CHALLENGE 4 U

I remember vividly that gloriously hot afternoon in early summer. I had been invited to the seaside at Old Hunstanton, by three girlfriends and their many children. There is Jill in her micro bikini … voluptuous, sensuous, confident, amusing. A party of Chinese teenagers, each with their camera-phone, making multiple records of their afternoon. A young couple entwined in each other’s arms, oblivious to our presence, she a white girl, and he a black African boy. A large group, in traditional Islamic dress, the girls and women in black scarves, separate from the men and boys, and staring at Jill. I hope everyone went home happy, my party did.

The sun is shining as I write. Outside it is cold, winter is here. And I think about our nation, and wonder how united it is. Bush and Blair did a great disservice to the United Nations by invading Iraq without UN mandate. Now church leaders, politicians, media commentators are in disarray. I hesitate to write about unity, or a lack of it. The right of free speech is paramount, but threatened by those who will use physical violence to eliminate any challenge to their own creed.

So will you enter 2007 moaning about Blair, scarves and veils, immigration? Or will you do something active? I taught RE for a short while, to a multi-racial, year 7 class. We were curious to discover how similar are the different religions. So, rather than fighting about the differences, perhaps we should glory in the similarities. But I am not sure that I know enough about either the differences or similarities. Therefore, my resolution for 2007 is to rectify this by renewing contact with former colleagues who are from different faiths to my own. I will write about the results next autumn. What will you do? Roger Newman

Darren Betts Building and Maintenance 4 Hollow Lane Langham NR25 7BY 01328 830703 0788 184 1917 [email protected]

JACK'S RACE NIGHT SUPPER Saturday 20th January 2007

An evening not to be missed. All the excitement of Newmarket, Ascot and Fakenham without going further than Binham Village Hall - and being well fed too! Doors open 6.45 pm, first race 7.30pm. Cash Bar.

Entry: including supper £8, young people £4. Tickets from PCC members. In aid of the Binham Priory Project.

CAROLS AROUND THE TREE

This is to be on Tuesday 19th December at 7 p.m. Please come along, wrap up warm and bring your singing voice with you. We will be joined by the Fakenham Town Band. Mulled wine and warm mince pies would be nice – if you would like to help with either, please ring Liz at 830519.

QUIZ NIGHT

Mon, 4th Dec. and Wed. 3rd Jan.

Join our very informal Quiz night at the Chequers. We’ll make up teams on the night, depending on how many of us there are. Come at 6.30 if you’re going to have a meal, or 7.30 for a drink and the Quiz. Alex and Steve look forward to seeing you. 830270

VILLAGE HALL

The Binham Village Hall is available for everyone to hire. For more information please ring: Liz Brown at 01328 830519. We have cutlery, crockery and tablecloths available for hire too.

FLOWERS AT ABBOTT FARM

A big thank you to all who supported the Flowers & Farming event at Abbott Farm. We raised the amazing amount of £1,550 for Quidenham Children’s Hospice.

Make a note in your diary for next year – August 31st, September 1st and 2nd. Liz and Allen

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13

CALLING ALL SENIOR LANGHAM LIONS Please help me. Talk to me about Langham in your childhood years - we are losing our roots. Whilst talking to some Langham residents I realised they do not know where our pet names for places in the village are - such as Suckers’ Pitt, Blotter Hill, Blue Mount, Pig’s Nose, Bullock Sheds Corner, Wilsham Lime Kiln Pit, Bilser. Do you know any more, or would you be willing to chat to me about experiences you’ve had whilst living in Langham. We used to have our own cricket team, Tom Craske was Captain, my Dad Philip Tomblin was wicket keeper, Colin and Ian Jarvis, Trevor Punshion, Kenny Lawrence, Pat Newman - who else? There also used to be a lady called Lily Lambart who used to live where Mrs Allen does now. She used to get up trips to Yarmouth in the summer. Set off in the morning, do our own thing in Yarmouth, then call at a pub called Gally Hill in Norwich on way home. Tuesday nights there used to be a bus to Wells pictures - highlight of the week. Sundays we used to catch the bus to Cromer Rink where there would be two bands, some quite famous, other not so, but we didn’t mind. Next time I’ll tell you about the night Mods & Rockers descended on Cromer. This will bring back memories to a lot of the fifty to sixty plus age group. Ann Massingham

MR WILLIAM ERNEST MASSINGHAM He was one of the old characters of Langham, I am afraid there are not many of us left. He was laid to rest at Langham on 2nd November. It was a lovely service, with two tributes of William’s life, one read out by his daughter, Ria and the Rev. Joanna Anderson read the other tribute on behalf of his brother, Ronnie Massingham. He was a quiet, unassuming man who served his country well when he joined the Marine Commandos in 1940. William’s greatest pleasure was being out in the countryside with his gun, shooting rabbits. He was a familiar sight, going through the village on his bicycle, laden with his daily sport. He leaves three children, Raymond, Ria and Dawn, numerous grandchildren, his only surviving brother, Ronnie, and happy memories of a special uncle. Eileen


FIRE BRIGADE Eric Hotblack completes his trawl through the Parish Council minute book from 1906 on with a look at Letheringsett Fire Brigade:

In the Field Dalling Parish Council minute book there are some notes regarding the Letheringsett Fire Brigade.

The first mention occurs in April 1913, ‘it was unanimously agreed to contribute ten shillings yearly to Letheringsett Fire Brigade’. In the account book the payment is referred to as a subscription; however the payment seems to be forgotten sometimes. There is no mention in 1916, and in 1923 payment of £1 was made for 1922 and 1923, then in 1925 for three years and the final payment of £1 for two years with the additional comment, ‘it was also decided to find out terms of Holt Fire Brigade’. Intriguingly, there is no reason given for this enquiry, neither were further payments made to Letheringsett Fire Brigade. In 1929 and 1930 further enquiries were made about Holt Fire Brigade, but no replies are recorded.

The fire engine house was a separate building between the Letheringsett Brewery buildings and the King’s Head, now used as a cottage.

The engine was a horse drawn pump; the horses when needed were got from Home Farm on other side of the road. The pump was said to be very good and gave better pressure than Holt’s.

The Eastern Daily Press (Sunday) of Sat. July 27th 2002 has a picture of a horse drawn 1899 fire engine, perhaps it was the Letheringsett one? There is no note whether the subscription was felt to be good value, so perhaps the fire brigade was never called out to Field Dalling, though there may be records of it in other neighbouring parishes.

Many thanks to Eric for researching and contributing the six articles of local interest this year. Such views of the past are valuable for our collective village memory: it would be great if six different people could contribute stories of their houses or our past community for the 2007 Lynx issues. If it helps, Margaret can type them for you, or even write them from a conversation. Please contact her at the number above.

COCKTHORPE News

Contact: Ann Massingham 01328 830558

FIELD DALLING News

Contact: Margaret Smith 01328 830546

14


THE HARVEST SUPPER

On October 28th a good turn-out of 48 people gathered to enjoy the Harvest Supper put on by the Friends of Gunthorpe Parish Church. On the evening itself, near-calm broke out amongst the Committee, but the simple meal had required near-military planning. Early in the year, the committee started with the basics - ‘What could we offer to compare with last year’s wonderful French-themed evening?’ Well, dear reader, we decided that this year ‘British would be best’! So, starting with the most British of meals, we decided on ‘Bangers & Mash with Onion Marmalade’ followed by Apple Pie & Vanilla Ice-Cream (maple syrup was outside the brief, but went down well). We decided to have a special Gunthorpe sausage made and took our recipe to Paul & Simon at P&S Butchers in Holt. Even this wasn’t straight forward as the secret ingredients had to be checked & re-checked, tasted & checked again. They were delicious, guys - thank you. Then we decided on a mass peeling, so that afternoon saw Lynn, Pippa and Di B&C gathered round the Aga, over 20 kilos of potatoes piled between us, (& a bottle of wine or two)…After peeling, chopping and dunking the mash was finally underway. Rob C had prepared a huge amount of onion marmalade and “a drop of gravy, just in case” so we had one less thing to think about. While we partied & peeled, Rob ferried tons of glasses, ice-buckets, ice, etc & arranged the complimentary beverages, & Marie was hard at work with her gorgeous gourds, laying out & decorating tables and any horizontal surface with dozens of candelabra, tiny tea lights, foliage & flowers. The Village Institute looked beautiful. Our little village hall was transformed into a delightful rustic restaurant. Pippa & Mike Bunting had the unenviable task of cooking over 150 specially-made ‘Gunthorpe’ sausages, this they timed to perfection. Brown & perfectly plump sausages were couriered to the Institute by Mike (now AKA as Mr Asbestos Hands - and for anyone not over-

Contact: Di Cutterham 01263 860693

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familiar with ‘small village life’ - think carefully before purchasing a property close to a village hall - you may find your kitchen commandeered! Luckily, Pippa has faced similar challenges and again rose to it well - those Christmas 50-50 Club Parties were good practice!! Trying to keep hot 20 kilos of buttery mashed potato, 160 sausages, gravy, marmalade, 6 enormous apple pies and 100 plates & dishes is no mean feat! So, hostess trolleys at the ready, we loaded, squeezed and pummelled everything into position, to be prepared for the onslaught. With waiters (Lynn, Marie, Jeremy, Chris & Pippa) chomping at the bit, Rev Joanna said a short grace and at 8.00 on the dot the servers served (Di B&C). All went like clockwork, even Mr Gordon Ramsey would have been impressed. After pudding, coffee & After Eights were served and the mardling continued long into the night. It was a super evening - a eclectic mix of diners, young & old, from near & far, all gathered together for this wonderful social event. This year it was good to welcome our newest residents Barney & Shawna, (Victory Cottage), and Leanne, Tim & their children, (Gardener’s Cottage) Thank you to those who helped make the evening such a huge success - and those who stayed behind to help with the unglamorous task of clearing up & putting away. Ticket sales, raffle & donations raised almost £500 towards the repairs & maintenance of St. Mary’s Church. PS On Sunday morning, there was an article in the Sunday Times from a celebrated chef - Mr Heston Blumenthall no less - his recipe? Bangers, Mash & Onion Marmalade no less! We are soooooo with the times here in Gunthorpe!! Di Cutterham

15

MORE ABOUT THE HARVEST SUPPER

From Mr Alan Russell, a very amusing poem, perhaps for anyone who may still be longing for some custard ?

For second course, last night, a custard came To th’ board, so hot, as none co’d touch the same;

Furze, three or foure times with his cheeks did blow Upon the Custard, and thus cooled so;

It seem’d by this time to admit the touch; But none co’d eat it, ‘cause it stunk so much.’

Robert Herrick (1591-1674)

50/50 CLUB DATES FOR THE DIARY ‘06/’07

16th Dec. Sat. 12.00. Christmas Party & Draw 27th Jan. Sat. 10.30. Coffee Morning & Draw 24th Feb. Sat. 10.30 Coffee Morning & Draw 31st March. Sat. 12.00 Coffee Morning & Draw

50/50 CLUB RESULTS

July R. Tacon £15, P. Traverso £10, H. Clare £7, V. Legge-Bourke £5, S. Burton £5, R. Cutterham £5.

August V.Legge-Bourke £15, P. Bunting £10, J. Cutterham £5, V. Worsley £15, J. Burton £5.

September V. Legg-Bourke £15, S. Worthington £10, E. Cutterham £5, T. Worsley £5, W. Worsley £5, M. Swindells £5.

October G. Shaw £15, Bunting £10, H. Craske £7. K. Cushion £5, J. Smith £5, M. Everett £5.

50/50 CLUB CHRISTMAS PARTY Saturday 16th December in the Village Institute

I am certain that Mrs Bunting is already looking forward to this event Hot sausages, mince pies & mulled wine will be served from 12.00. The Institute will undergo another transformation and there will, as always, be a marvellous Christmas Raffle. Everyone is welcome, so, please come along. NB if anyone would like to make a seasonal prize - hint! hint! could they please let Di C know in advance on 860693 so she can organize collection etc…)

A VISIT TO THE GUNTHORPE PARISH COUNCIL MEETING

Not on my usual circuit of nights out but as one of the dwindling band of green cutters, I decided to go, having been told that the village green was on the agenda. To be honest, I had no idea what to expect and as an ‘interloper’ anticipated only a possibly frosty reception. Not a bit of it; everyone was very welcoming and were genuinely pleased that a ‘civilian’ had bothered to attend. The meeting proceded, covering many aspects of managing the business of the Gunthorpe & Bale combined villages.

Grass cutting, maintenance, planning applications, parking, budgets and donations to local causes. A relief to know that Gunthorpe is not a selected small village for development under the local development framework (LDF), especially at the near urban densities proposed for selected towns & villages.

The current big task for the Parish Council is the drawing up of the ‘Parish Plan’, a document which will set out the aims and ambitions for our villages. Everyone’s input is welcomed, indeed sought, for this so please put in your ‘three pennarth’ when your opinion is canvassed.

Thanks to all the councillors for their welcome and their work on our behalf. The next meeting will be held in Bale Village Hall on Feb 22nd, 2007 at 7.30. Rob

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16

6. Like the absolute truth, stripped bare (5). 7. Bouncer from the cathedral city? (6). 9. Lip-shaped weapon of love (6,3). 13. Overboard at sea, well-investigated (2,5). 15. Lunatic headgear (3,3). 14. Spring, and so, on adds salt! (7) 16. Wheat protein. Nearly stick a handful (6). 18. Bamboo stick hit al - confused (5). 20. An environmentalist cut short? Say yes! (5)

Across 1. Songs for Christmas (6) 4. A short day after healthy cereal - a hard drink! (6). 8. Confused clergyman looses his head. Old thing! (5). 9. Good joke? Pull the other one at the festive table (7). 10. Wrap endless stantionery (7). 11. Type of ‘rock’ cut from the islands to the east and the west (5). 12. Santa can’t go far without them (9). 17. Didn’t win, was cut short, fell sick! (5). 19. Reworked drab law gets to the point (7). 21. Pussyfoot (7). 22. Birds perch on this Australian highway (5). 23. Soft illumination creates difficulty (6). 24. Getting so near confused the cause (6). Down 1. Wagon-man or local builder? (6). 2. About the organ - he goes through it again! (7). 3. The lynx’s pub (5). 4. Recognise the sound of actual lookers (7).

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8 9

10 11

12 13 14

15 16

17 18 19 20

21 22

23 24

CHRISTMAS PUZZLES PAGES ALL SOLUTIONS IN NEXT ISSUE

WORD SQUARE It’s the time to get out the Christmas tree, dust it off and hang the decorations - no candles please. Thinking of trees put us in mind of the field guide, appropriately called ‘Trees’, written by John and Jill White (of Langham) and Max Walters (ISBN 0-19-851574-X) and this year’s word square contains no less than 21 reasonably familiar trees, as well as the holly and the ivy.

No dear, a crab is not a tree, nor are eels! See how many you can find. The usual rules apply—the letters can run in any direction but must be in a straight line.

W O L L I W R H C E E B E S Q U I T A E N A L P E P U T M Z T N A A D E

R Y I E E L S S C L E A T L N L I M E K H T R C S L C R A B T R A N T H A O E P I H W F I O N E D H L D O G S E R S R C U E D R A D E C Y M O U J U N I P E R I C A H R T O V F R E I S O D T P M Y Y T E R O M A C Y S

CRYPTIC CROSSWORD - to challenge the grey cells

after Christmas lunch

SHARRINGTON SAVING THE PLANET QUIZ

12 questions on the effect of CO2 on the environment - and the actions we may take.

1. Approximately how much CO2 is saved in a year by changing 1 high energy light bulb to a low energy bulb? a) 1 pound. b) 30 pounds. c) 150 pounds. 2. On average, how much CO2 is emitted in 1 mile of driving? a) 1 pound. b) 30 pounds. c) 150 pounds. 3. In an average household, how much CO2 is emitted in dealing with its waste if none of it is recycled? a) 2,400 pounds. b) 4,800 pounds. c) 300 pounds. 4. How much can petrol mileage be improved by pumping up your tyres fully? a) 1%. b) 10%. c) 3%. 5. In an average household, approximately how much CO2 emission can be prevented over a year by switching all household washing from hot settings to cool or warm? a)100 pounds. b) 500 pounds. c) 300 pounds. 6. If you moved your thermostat down 2 degrees in winter, about how much CO2 emission would you save? a) 2,000 pounds. b) 100 pounds. c) 5,000 pounds. 7. How much CO2 does a tree absorb over its lifetime? a) 5,000 pounds. b) 1,000 pounds. c) 1 ton. 8. How much money would an average household save each year by insulating the loft or upgrading present insulation? a) £10 - £50. b) £180 - £220. c) £300 - £350. 9. How much money would cavity wall insulation save each year? a) £10 - £50. b) £50 - £100. c) £130 - 160. 10. How much more fuel does an energy efficient boiler convert to heat than a conventional boiler? a) 2%. b)10%. 3) 20%. 11. By how much does double glazing reduce heat loss through windows? a) 10%. b) 30%. c) 50%. 12. If you moved your thermostat down by 1 degree, how much would you save on your heating bills? a) 1%. b) 5%. c) 10%.

17

MORSTON QUIZ by Samphire

England 1. By what name is the Central Criminal Court known? 2. What is the name of the Roman wall built across NW England in 122AD? 3. In which town is Shakespeare buried? 4. Which London street is associated with the medical profession? 5. Which is the oldest royal residence still in use? History 6. Who was Queen of the Iceni? 7. How many cohorts in a legion? 8. What famous battle was fought and won on St. Crispin’s Day? 9. What year was the Russian Revolution? 10. Al Capone was finally gaoled for what?

Larn Yarself Norfolk How do the following translate into everyday English: 11. to annick (as in skywannicking or nonnicking)? 12. daggly? 13. duzzy? 14. a dwile? 5. rafty? 16. a swidge? 17. thongy? 18. a tempest? 9. yarmandering? 20. a tizzick?

Carols. Complete the following lines (To help, the initial letters of the carols’ titles are given in brackets and a double hyphen denotes one word): 21. “Of all the trees that are in the wood, the -- bears the crown.” (1) [THATI]. 22. “Hither, -- , and stand by me!” (2) [GKW]. 23. “While shepherds watched their flocks by night, all -- -- -- --” (4) [WSW]. 24. “The hopes and fears of all the years, are -- -- -- --” (4) [OLTOB]. 25. “-- -- -- on high, in heaven the bells are ringing.” (3) [DDMOH]. 26. “The cattle are lowing, the -- awakes.” (1) [AIAM]. 27. “Joyful all ye nations rise, join the -- -- -- --” (4) [HTHAS]. 28. “In fields where they lay, keeping -- --” (2) [TFN]. 29.“ -- leading, still proceeding, guide us to Thy perfect --” (1,1) [WTKOOA]. 30. “And His shelter was a -- And His cradle was a --” (1, 1) [OIRDC].

TWELVE LITERARY QUESTIONS From XXXXXXXXXXXXX

1. Which poet and preacher asserted ‘No man is an island.’? 2. Who supplied the following definition for ‘lexicographer’ - ‘A writer of dictionaries, a harmless drudge’? 3. Which Bronte sister wrote ‘The Tenant of Wildfell Hall’? 4. Give the title of Evelyn Waugh’s satire on journalism.

5. Where did Lord Byron die? 6. Which great house served as Jane Austen’s model for Darcy’s Pemberley? 7. From which play by Shakespear did Aldous Huxley borrow the title for his futuristic novel? 8. Where did George Orwell (Eric Blair) go to school? 9. Who portrayed autumn as ‘Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness’? 10. From which Norfolk town did Chaucer’s Reeve hail? 11. What is the title of William Golding’s trilogy relating a voyage to Australia? 12. Which C20 poet wrote a poetic account of the experiences of the Three Wise Men on their way to Bethleham?

18

MOBILE LIBRARY

Will visit Langham on Thursdays Dec. 21st, Jan 11th., Feb 1st and Feb. 22nd, calling each day at: The Carmel - 9.35 am. Swan’s Close - 10.50 am. St. Mary’s - 10.00 am. The Cornfield - 11.15 am.

The Old Post Office - 10.25 am.

Please note change of roster from 4 to 3 weeks. Enquiries: Wells Library Tel: 01328 710467.

PARISH COUNCIL Fireworks

On the 5th of November, judging by the comments I have received, we had our best show yet and again the weather was perfect. Thanks are due to a huge number of people for making it the success it was. Grove Farm for providing the field and the material for the bonfire, Ian Spinks for both building the bonfire and getting the children to help stuff the best Guy we have had. The Friends of Langham once again for organising the BBQ and soup kitchen which were both very successful. To the many people who prepared the site, manned the stalls, carried the buckets, cooked the food, lit the fireworks and cleared the site the following morning. As John Hughes said, ‘when an event is as successful as this was, it is worth all the effort’.

Above all though I must thank everyone who attended and gave so generously either by buying food or putting cash in the bucket collection. This enabled us to make a very small profit and not have to take up the very generous offer we had, from an anonymous villager, to underwrite any losses we suffered.

Hopefully this event can continue to be as successful in the coming years, keeping the tradition alive, and to involving as many villagers as possible. The Chairman

Proposed Council meeting dates for 2007

On the following Tuesdays:

23rd January 13th March

8th May 2007 10th July 28th August 23rd October

11th December

Any alterations to these dates will be shown on the village notice boards.

LANGHAM CHURCH NEWS

The Harvest Festival Service collection amounted to £97.17, which was all sent to the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution, who were most grateful.

After the service a ‘Bring and Share Supper’ was enjoyed in the Parish Room.

Our thanks got to all those people who decorated the church, helped with the service and organised the supper.

The ‘Glaven Centre’ had already received a lot of produce so the produce from the church was taken along to the Carmel. Langham PCC

VILLAGE CAROLS Although we will not be going round the village

singing carols this year, we are going to join the nuns at the Carmel to sing carols with them. We will be congregating in the car park of the Carmel at 6.40pm. to start at 6.45pm, on Tuesday, 12th December.

Children and adults are all welcome so do come and join us. If you require transport or need further details please telephone Ken on 830696 or Ann on 830605. We look forward to seeing you.

WELCOME We would like to extend a warm welcome to Mr. and Mrs. Tolliss and Henry who have come to live in Langham.

FROM THE REGISTERS Funeral - Mr William Massingham. November 2nd. Burial of Ashes - Mr George Gilbert Kemp and Mrs. Rose Lilian Kemp. September 26th.

JOEY GIRDLEY The late Joey Girdley collections amounted to £120.40 for the ‘Cats Protection’. Thanking you all who gave.

Juliette and Heather, Swans Close, Langham.

Contact: Ann Sherriff 01328 830605

LANGHAM News

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19

LANGHAM LADYBIRDS

In October Tom Sands came and showed us some very interesting maps of ‘Old Wells’, revealing his great knowledge of the subject. The November meeting was very well attended when Graham Lubbock talked about the National Trust and in particular Blakeney Point. Both meetings were very much enjoyed and it is always nice to see friends at these open meetings. What next? We have a little break until January 30th, that is the date for CADS dress rehearsal of ‘Scarlet Pimpernel’ at Cley Village Hall. Everybody welcome. If you are not a member but would like more details nearer the time please let me know. Have a super Christmas and a Healthy and Happy 2007, and a big thank you to everybody - you have all been very kind to me over the past few months. I appreciate your concern. Maureen 830731

NORFOLK CHURCHES TRUST Sponsored Bicycle Ride

The sum raised this year by our four stalwart riders was £532, of which £266 was given back to Langham Church general fund. Langham PCC would like to thank Helen Brandt, Mike Connor, Amanda Marshall and John Plummer for their fantastic achievement. Thanks also go to all their sponsors and to the recorders in church. We would also like to thank John Plummer for carrying out the administration so efficiently. Well done everyone, your efforts are much appreciated.

PARISH ROOM 13th December starting 7pm. £2.00

Come and start the Festive Season with the congenial Carols and Mince Pies evening. Children are free, as are your Sherry and snacks. No need for Tea that night! Net proceeds for the Parish Room. E. Allen.

FRIENDS OF LANGHAM VILLAGE COFFEE MORNINGS

in the Parish Room This is now our second year and still as popular as ever. So don't forget to put the following dates in your diary and come along to meet your friends and neighbours and enjoy a nice cup of coffee or tea. We always need volunteers to run these mornings so if you would like to help just call John Hughes 01328 830595. The following dates are for FOL coffee mornings, 10am until 12 noon.

December 2nd and 20th. January 6th and 17th. February 3rd and 21st. March 3rd and 21st.

IT’S PANTOMIME TIME Friends of Langham invite all the Langham children to 'Jack & The Bean Stalk' at the Princess Theatre Hunstanton on Tuesday 2nd January 2006 at 2.30 pm The bus leaves Langham at 1.00 pm and returns at approx. 6.00 pm. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Transport and tickets for the children of Langham are free. Adults £10.00. For more information and tickets please contact Cathy or Marcel Schoenmakers on 01328 - 830537.

LANGHAM STREET FAYRE With enormous thanks to the many people who contributed in whatever guise, the final sum available for distribution from the year’s Fayre was £12,378. At their meeting on 21st September the Committee decided the following disbursements:

Retained for next event/short term use £1,378 Langham Parish Room £3,000

Langham Church Building Trust £3,000 Langham Playing Field £2,500 Langham School for 2 Laptop Computers £800 Langham Parish Council for new seat/posts £500 Friends of Langham, £500 Local Lynx for software £250 Langham Carpet Bowls Club £250 Glaven Caring £200

As to the future, 4 long standing members of the Committee have retired and there is an urgent need to replace them. Without more volunteers for the Committee there will be no event in 2008 and, despite a village wide appeal, we have had only 1 offer.

Anyone interested in serving on the committee should contact Rod or Molly Lees (on 830036) or any member of the 2006 Committee.

NO COMMITTEE = NO EVENT! Rod Lees

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20

I know he’s slow my dear chap but the reindeer kept getting lost!

LANGHAM STREET FAYRE QUIZ 2006

This year’s winners were: 1st Mrs. J. O’Higgins of Derby with 93 points. 2nd Ros & Danny Boon of Briston with 92 points. 3rd Mrs. Sue Fowkes of Langham with 91points.

Three other contestants scored 91 points, so a name was taken out of the hat for 3rd place - Mr D.W. Dunsden of Holt, Judith Walker-Blake of Woolpit, Suffolk and Margaret Brown of Mundesley also scored 91. Once again, entries came from all over the country and one this year from France. There were 64 entries altogether and over 340 quiz sheets were sold.

My favourite answer was to No. 33: Q. Makes things go better? Ans. ‘Syrup of Figs’. Correct answer - Coca-Cola. The most difficult ones proved to be: 27. German No. 2 - Kirsch (which is the German Cherry Liqueur) - Cherry Brandy being No. 2’s answer. 63. Highwayman’s Coat Colour - Claret (‘a coat of Claret velvet’ according to Alfred Noyes’ poem). 98. Bella! Picking Grapes with me - Margarita - from the song from ‘Bless the Bride’. (sorry all you young folks who’ve never heard of it!).

Many thanks to all who took part and who bought/sold so many sheets. Jan.

LANGHAM COMMUNITY CAR SERVICE

We urgently need THREE volunteer drivers to maintain our thirteen week roster. With this method, drivers only have to do a duty of one week, four times a year. At the moment we are on a shortened roster which finishes on the 21st January. So for the remaining two weeks of January it will be necessary to look at the notice boards to see who is on duty.

Schedule for Nov 6th.2006 – Jan 21st. 2007 Nov. 6th. Tel:.830 696 Dec.18th. Tel:830 731 Nov.13th.Tel: 830 348 Dec 25th. Tel:830 537

Nov 20th.Tel: 830 605 Jan 1st. Tel:830 606 Nov.27th. Tel:830 821 Jan. 8th. Tel:830 847 Dec. 4th. Tel:830 056 Jan. 15th. Tel:830 036 Dec.11th. Tel:830 847 Rate: 18p per mile.

The roster is displayed on the notice boards of the playing field, the vicarage wall and church porch and also in the Bluebell. If you cannot get to any of these sites do give me a call and I will be glad to help.

Please give me a call if you could possibly volunteer. Ann Sherriff 830605

GLAVEN DISTRICT CARING A plea for help - can you volunteer? Details on page 7. Thank you.

UNUSUAL MIGRATION Early October saw a strange variation in the habits of the species Greylag langhamus lurkum. Six of these took flight southward to Northern Spain where they roosted at Llança. There they fed and watered on specialities of the area. It is believed that the aim of this strange migration south was to record images of the coast and hinterland, and to reproduce enhanced versions of these images after a suitable gestation period. Rumour has it that at some stage during late summer of 2007 the fruits of this unusual journey will be displayed in the native habitat of the Greylag langhamus lurkum, (i.e. in the village of Langham within radius of The Green).

The flock has since flown back north and has settled down for the winter season.

(Note: The sub species have since been identified as culinaris, bevmonitoris, purskeepis, aquilaris, literatis and artiscraftis.)

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21


MORSTON MARDLE by Samphire Dates for Your Diary Sat. 23rd Dec. 5.00 pm Carol Service. Fri. 19th Jan. 7.00 pm PCC Meeting. Wed.24th Jan. 7.00 pm. Parish Council Meeting. Wed. 7th Mar. 7.00 pm. Parish Council Meeting. Sat.17th Mar. Friends of Morston Church Quiz 2007.

NORTH NORFOLK CHURCHES BIKE RIDE The PCC were delighted with the magnificent contribution made in the Bike Ride on Sep 9th by Olive & Billy Hewitt and Rob & son Max Metcalfe, who raised £957.00. Of that sum Morston will receive half together with 14p in the pound, so All Saints Church funds will receive well over £500.00. Thanks go too of course to the sponsors of those fit four cyclists.

MEMORIAL SERVICE for Mary Kay (1931-2006)

Mary Kay, deeply loved sister of Sandy and Margaret, died on September 4th 2006. Mary spent many of her early holidays at Woodhill in East Runton, and her deep love of Norfolk brought her back to live in Letheringsett after her retirement from the London Probation Service. Whenever you met Mary her warmth and sense of humour made you smile, and you always came away feeling better. She was well known locally and she made many friends, particularly as she walked her beloved Norwich Terrier, Freddie - whether down the road to the ford in Letheringsett, on the marshes of Morston and Stiffkey or in Blickling Woods. Her companionship will be hugely missed by all her neighbours, friends and family. We were able to say farewell at a lovely service in Morston Church on Sunday September 17th, with tea afterwards in the garden of Church Farm House, to share our memories. THE PELLS

FAMILY OF MORSTON

Caroline Pells Edwardson, nee Hunter, of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, the great granddaughter of Charles & Rachel Pells (son of William & Elizabeth) writes of attending a church service here recently, at which she was very moved as so many of her family - the Pells family - were baptised, married and buried here in the 1800s and 1900s.

Charles died in South Shields in 1906 and Rachel Pells in Newcastle in 1926. Caroline is descended from Charles & Rachel’s daughter, Caroline Hunter.

Caroline Edwardson has become a Friend of Morston Church. She was “very sad to see Pells Cottage had been sold for demolition and building and redevelopment.”

THE SHOVELL DINNER 2006 for the Morston landowning Admiral

Friends of Morston Church instituted the Shovell Dinner this October (on October 21st, which just happened to be Trafalgar Day) - a year and a day before the Tricentenary of the death of the great Stuart admiral. Sir Cloudesley Shovell (1650 - 1707) was born at Cockthorpe, owned land at Morston and was Lord of the Manor of Wells.

The Dinner was planned to be held at the Anchor, but owing to the fire was finally held at the Blakeney Harbour Room, employing Anchor staff and Lynn Handley’s catering company. 60 people attended, some coming from as far afield as London, Richmond, Henley and Twickenham. Several were descended from the uncle of the admiral, Cloudesley Jenkenson (the Breretons) and one was the admiral’s 4-greats granddaughter (who drew the raffle); and there was a good turn out from Cockthorpe as well as Morston. Two toasts were drunk: one to Sir Cloudesley and the second one to Lord Nelson who was to flourish 100 years after Shovell did.

Dr Simon Harris, Shovell’s biographer (who lives near Kings Lynn) gave an impassioned fascinating talk - with magnificent slides - on the life and times of “Cockthorpe & Morston’s famous admiral”. The evening raised a total of £1,235.00. (Tickets £690, Auction £80, Raffle £290 and donations £175).

The Shovell Dinner 2007 will be held at the Anchor on Sat 20th October.

Contact: Joc Wingfield 01263 740431

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BLAKENEY PRE-SCHOOL In the Village Hall

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Toddlers Monday & Tuesday, 9.30 - 11.30 (combined with Pre-School)

0-2½ yrs £1.00

For further details contact Marny (Supervisor) on 01263 740925

22

ALL SAINTS CHURCH

2005-06 Architectural Adviser’s Report

Last year repairs were carried out to the inside of the tower, including new plasterwork where existing plasterwork had blown, and complete redecoration. The ladder, wooden, narrow, unsecured, and woodworm-eaten, was replaced by a new metal ladder and an oak landing above the nave arch. This complies with current legislation and has removed the risk of being forced to do the work when we might least be able to do so.

Since the last Quinquennial we concentrated on work to keep the church weatherproof and safe - the aisle roof, windows, the ladder and meeting disabled access legislation - but some of the work then identified is still outstanding. The next inspection in August will re-confirm these outstanding works as well as listing others.

I anticipate a total of £60,000 of further works at 2009 prices (allowing for the inevitable delay in bringing them to site). This includes re-pointing the tower, re-leading the chancel roof, and internal redecoration. It is also hoped to tackle the panel over the crossing and the Butter Tomb (separately “listed”) outside the porch door. These two involve specialist trades and carry a considerable contingency risk. Together they might cost up to £25,000. A roof flagpole would cost c. £1,000 - making a Grand Total of £86,000. David Carnwath, RIBA


CHRISTINGLE SERVICE

One of the highlights of the year is our Christingle Service at St Margaret’s Church.

It will take place this year at 3.30 pm on Sunday, 10th December. Primarily, the service is for children but is shared and enjoyed by both the young and not so young. Everyone is welcome to join us, so come along and be with us to light the way to Christmas Day.

‘A SCANDAL IN PARIS’

Those who attended Mary Alexander’s talk, ‘A Scandal in Paris’, enjoyed a fascinating insight into the background of the artist, John Singer Sargent, and of the subject of this extraordinary painting. They also gained a vivid impression of the fashions and culture of Parisian life at the end of the 19th century

Our sincere thanks go to Mary for giving us such an enthralling image of the artist, and of Madame Gautreau, who sat for his celebrated portrait.

All proceeds from this talk benefitted St Margaret’s Church Fabric fund.

POWDITCH FAMILY GATHERING NO.2

14th - 17th September (2006)

The Powditch Family (“Powditch of Morston [1538-1755], North Creake & Wells”) came to Morston on their second, and very successful, family meeting. The Friends of Morston Church held raffles in the Red Lion in Stiffkey at their Dinner on Friday 16th (prizes provided by the Powditch Family) and at their Dinner on Saturday 17th (prizes by Friends) which made over £130.00.

The very enjoyable Powditch Family Service on Sunday was well attended.

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23


HARVEST FESTIVAL A pair of oxen, a couple of goats and 3 sheep will be welcomed by African farmers thanks to the generosity of Sharrington people. Add 3 weeks’ training in agricultural skills, 1 week’s help from an extension worker and special training in the construction of stoves and you have some idea of the scope and breadth of the ‘Send a Cow’ scheme supported by our village for the second year running.

The collection from the Harvest Festival, plus proceeds from the supper and auction that followed all added up to £510 - enough for the ‘shopping list’ above.

All Saints’ Church was filled with candlelight and a joyful congregation arrived, bringing armfuls of garden and kitchen produce. Rev. Joanna Anderson conducted a meaningful and thought-provoking service, and we all left clutching our crocus bulb - the Benefice will be studded with colour next spring if all our parishioners plant theirs as instructed!

Then it was off to the village hall for a splendid supper and auction. Claire Rivett proved what a pursuasive auctioneer she is by selling off cakes, vegetables and even a wild salmon, to boost funds. P.E.L.

SAVING THE PLANET - starting in Sharrington

On October 7th Sharrington Church was packed for the first event in our Harvest Festival weekend. We played host to the internationally distinguished environmental scientist, Prof. Timothy O’Riordan, DL, Professor Emeritus at the University of East Anglia, and a member of the UK Sustainable Development Commission, and to the Bishop of Norwich, the Rt. Revd. Graham James, who chaired the event.

When we planned the evening we had three purposes in mind. Firstly to use the church, all decked out in its Harvest Festival finery, for an occasion which would reach out beyond the regular congregation to the wider community, to raise money for the church, and, most importantly, to raise consciousness on this vital issue which affects every one of us.

Prof. O’Riordan, who spoke without notes, dazzled us with the depth and breadth of his knowledge and his passion for the subject. Nervous of not doing justice to the content of his talk, I asked him to write a piece for the Lynx himself (see p.24), summarising his arguments.

Like all successful village events, this couldn’t have been staged without help from lots of people. Those who decorated the church with flowers, vegetables and produce from their own gardens, those who generously gave the wine and made the canapes, those who cleaned up and printed the posters and invitations, our church wardens and our rector, Joanna Anderson, who introduced the evening. And most of all to those who came and who joined so thoughtfully in the lively debate that followed.

The entries to the quiz, which had been devised by the Church of England’s policy adviser on environmental issues, and which we circulated over the drinks, showed the audience’s commitment to making their own contribution to saving the planet. Four people got 6 answers right. The winner, decided on a tie-breaker, was Kate Kingdon, the director of the Norfolk Community Foundation. The quiz is reproduced on p.17, answers will be in Issue 52. See how you can do.

Oh, and we raised a total of £475 for the church, which enabled us to use the profits from the following evening to look beyond our own village to those struggling to make a living from the land in Africa.

MARMALADE MAKER SEEKS RECIPE.

A couple of years ago, we at Sharrington held a Christmas Bazaar and invited other villages in the benefice to hire a table top and sell their wares. Some weeks later, I opened a jar of Brown Sugar Marmalade that I had bought there and it was delicious - so much so that I decided to make some myself. But searching through my shelf of cookery books, from Mrs. Beeton to Mary Berry and back again, has so far drawn a blank. I also can't remember at which table I made my purchase. So I throw open a challenge to all Lynx readers - are you the cook who made my mouth-watering marmalade, or do you by any chance happen to have a recipe for the elusive Brown Sugar preserve? If so, I'd be delighted to hear from you - before the Sevilles hit the shops in January. Pippa Long, The Place, Sharrington, NR24 2PG (01263 860613)

SHARRINGTON News

Contact: Dr Peter Garwood 01263 860700 All types of building works - Painting & Decorating

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24

CLIMATE CHANGE and what we can do about it

Climate change is a short phrase that holds the future of humanity in its thrall. For the first time in the history of human existence, the impact of humans is larger than the impact of natural forces in shaping the foreseeable destiny of the planet. We live in an age where human influence is dominating natural systems and life support functions.

Climates are changing because we are emitting carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxides at rates faster than the planet can naturally absorb. All of these gasses act as a thermal blanket, trapping the heat loss from the planetary warm body surface and increasing the global temperature. If we continue to increase the emissions of these gasses, then we could raise the temperature of the lower atmosphere by 5 degrees C by the end of the century. To put this into perspective, this is warmer than at any time over the past 700,000 years. In the space of a human lifetime, we could stress the planet more than it has been stressed since the beginning of the current ice age. We are still in an ice age, believe it or not.

The consequence of such large and totally unusual warming are simply unknown. But the outcome could be stark for planet life, animals, insects, water resources, glaciers and ice sheets and marine life. This is because ecosystems, and the connections of life supporting from chemicals and energy cannot adapt so quickly to such unexpected, and never before experienced conditions.

At a global level, we need to push international institutions to accept a limit of atmospheric concentration of 450 parts per million of carbon dioxide. This compares with the concentration of 80 ppmv before the industrial age began. This figure represents the maximum tolerable concentration, before the planet begins to tear apart. Beyond this point, humanity may not be able to cope with the planetary pain. This extremely demanding target means cutting our total global CO2 emissions by up to 90% by 2050. Currently the UK is nowhere near on track for this objective.

For our part, as citizens of N. Norfolk, but also of the planet, we need to work out household carbon budgets and begin to do the easy things. Put in energy saving light bulbs, turn off all electrical goods when not used, insulate our homes, reduce indoor temperatures a little, and cut back on avoidable driving and flying. For our future generations we may need to encourage low energy homes and a life style that is local and enjoyable, yet connected by the internet and by social relationships across the planet via electronic communications. Of course there is technology that can help as well. But untimately, we need to feel and act to share the burden of stewarding the planet in order to save this unique world for all humanity to come. Prof. Tim O’Riordan. DL

NEW VILLAGE SIGN

Thanks to Malcolm and Brenda we now have an excellent, colourful and clear sign on the grass triangle in front of Sharrington Hall. It is very well worth seeing and admiring by all in the region. PJG

A SERIOUS INCIDENT

A serious incident occurred in our village on Tuesday, 3rd October, at 6.30am. It could have resulted in damage, injury or worse for our milkman on his rounds.

An HGV sped down Bale Road. A long screeching skid and a swerve onto the well cared for verge known as Pilgrim’s Rest enabled the driver narrowly to avoid crunching the milk float and milkman by a matter of inches. The HGV did not stop at the site of the incident. The number plate was noted after a neighbour managed to catch up with it at the other side of Brinton. Police and the Safe Roads representatives were informed and a survey was made of the site of the incident. The police were unable to identify the number plate and therefore said they could proceed no further.

The number and size of lorries and other traffic through our village has increased, particularly in the last 3 to 4 years, putting children, walkers, cyclists, horse-riders and dogs in greater danger.

A great deal of work and enquiring has been done in recent years, but solutions proposed by our Parish Council and other authorities have so far been unable to find remedies, mainly because no concrete, clear proof has been detailed. We must provide facts such as number and size of vehicles, approximate speed, date, time, etc. We are free to state opinions but in the final analysis they don’t cut the mustard.

As your village rep for the Lynx I would welcome such information - preferably written, so that it can be passed on to the relevant authorities on our behalf.

P.J.Garwood

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25


CHURCH NEWS

We are now happily re-installed in our newly re-decorated church, which looks wonderful. The colour is just right and so much more light comes through the cleaned glass. The whole project went incredibly smoothly.

We celebrated our return with two very special services. On October 8th, over one hundred people came to the Harvest Service, a record for recent attendance. We enjoyed the singing of the Langham School choir and the talk on children in Bolivia by Lorna Warriner of Tear Fund. Lorna explained the work of Tear Fund in helping remote tribes in the Andes to grow more vegetables to improve their health and resistance to disease. The collection at the service raised over three hundred pounds for the work of Tear Fund. The service ended with a recorded latin-american version of “We plough the fields and scatter”.

A week later, Archdeacon Martin Gray preached at a whole benefice service attended by almost seventy members of the nine churches. The hymn singing was rousing and whole service uplifting. It was good to see our church so well filled two weeks in succession. On Sunday 22nd October, we were back to earth with a bump as seven of us gathered for the Family Service at eleven o’clock.

We are very grateful to Sheila and Tim Crafer for organising a most enjoyable sponsored walk for the Fabric Fund on October 14th. Not only did they choose an excellent route but remembered to order fine weather for the day. Many thanks also to the walkers who strode, staggered or hobbled the six-and-a-half miles to Morston and back. At the time of writing the walk has raised well over seven hundred pounds to help replenish the Fabric Fund, which has been severely depleted by the cost of the re-decorations.

We are most grateful to the custodians of Cockthorpe Church, which we used throughout the redecoration. We enjoyed the intimate scale of their church but are pleased to be back home now!

TRAFFIC CALMING

The Parish Council Minutes record that the Highways Authority is still refusing to monitor the traffic levels or accept that there is a problem with speeding in the village, where 20mph restrictions apply. Flashing 20mph signs would help.

When will the council tax payers of Stiffkey get satisfaction?

STIFFKEY POST OFFICE AND STORES

A momentous event is occurring as Eva and Clive hand over the shop and pass the baton to Alice Burnett and Andy Griffin. We sincerely welcome them to our community and wish them all success and happiness among us.

To Eva and Clive we express our heartfelt thanks for all that you have done. We are so glad that you will still be living in our village, as we simply cannot imagine Stiffkey without you and your family. We all value our Post Office and shop so much. It deserves our every support under the new management.

STIFFKEY MUSIC GROUP Two ‘first Wednesday of the month’ meetings have

been held in October and November, both featuring music by Brahms and comparing him with his contemporaries Schumann, Liszt, Wagner, Tchaikovsky, Dvorak and Johann Strauss. On December 6th we will have an evening of music and the cinema.

Many twentieth century composers have written film scores, including our local, recently deceased Malcolm Arnold. Then of course there are Ken Russell’s films about composers: The Music Lovers (featuring Tchaikovsky), Elgar and Mahler. It could be a lively night – we hope to see some of you at Kingfisher Barn, which is at 2 Warborough Place, for a seven o’clock start.

STIFFKEY News

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26

OLD NORFOLK DIALECT

(with special reference to Langham School)

When children ‘jiffle’ they are fidgeting; when they are excited, they ’go shanny’. They buy ‘cushies’ (sweets) in the village shop and they fish for ‘poddle-ladles’ (tadpoles) and ‘stannicles’ (sticklebacks) in the beck.

At the beach, they gather ‘pinpanches’ (winkles) and swim in the ‘lows’. On the marshes, they hear the redshanks ‘sharming’.

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STIFFKEY READERS’ CIRCLE

Each month the readers’ circle selects a new title to discuss at the meetings held at the Red Lion. The meeting starts with an (optional) meal before entering on a relaxed discussion of the month’s book,

The group is hard to please, with only Mark Haddon’s ‘The curious incident of the Dog in the Night’ being the only book so far to be met with enthusiasm by all the group. The last meeting discussed the local book ‘The Turn of the Tide: Norfolk’s Saltmarsh Coast’. That led to a discussion of all things North Norfolk.

Books are borrowed through the library service at Wells, with arrangements being made by Sally Amesbury. This month the group is reading ‘A change of Climate’ by Hilary Mantel.

Further details - contact Sally Amesbury. Tel: 830198

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THE END OF AN ERA at Stiffkey Stores

In the middle of May 1996 we heard that the village shop was to close at the end of the month. I quit my job, the Post Office pulled out all the stops and after two weeks dealing with banks and lawyers, Clive and I took it over on June 1st 1996.

We had to learn how to run a shop. What a learning curve! I was a nursery nurse and Clive was a builder. There we were, wondering how many loaves to buy. Too many and they go out of date, so you lose your profit; too few and your customers go elsewhere. Multiply that by milk, meat, vegetables and a hundred and one other products! On top of that, we had to learn how to run a Post Office. There was no computer in those days, and everything had to be entered into a large ledger.

We owe a big ‘thank you’ to all our regular customers, both second home owners and villagers, supporting the shop over the years and bearing with us as we learned the ropes. It is due to them that we have been able to keep the shop open and carry the range of goods that we do. The shop can only stock items that will be sold before they go out of date, and at a price that covers the overheads. The electricity, rent and council taxes all have to be paid whether you sell £1,000 or £500 worth of goods.

So please think before you drive to Wells. Think about the cost of the petrol and the hassle of parking. Perhaps the village shop is a better bet, overall. It is the centre of village life, so please keep on supporting it.

As well as a goodbye, this is also a warm ‘Hello and Welcome’ to Alice and Andy. Taking on the shop is a big step for them and means moving away from family and friends. Please come and say hello, tell them what you want in your village shop and help them to settle in.

We will still be around. Clive will carry on as a jobbing builder and I will be in the post office until after Christmas. We would like to thank Jill and Kevin for all their help over the years. Most of all, we would like to wish all our customers a fond farewell and a Happy Christmas. Eva and Clive

…and the start of a new era! As the excited new owners of Stiffkey Stores and Post

Office, Alice and Andy would like to extend a warm welcome to all customers. We are looking forward to meeting you and are interested in any ideas or requests you may have for the shop! A big ‘thank you’ to Eva and Clive who have been so helpful and supportive of our new venture and we wish them all the best for the future.

See you from the 13th November! Alice and Andy

27

THE BANGLADESH CONNECTION

In a previous issue last year I described the conservation area that Helen Leach and a group of us have been managing in Stiffkey Churchyard for the last ten years or so. I am glad to say that the marjoram, ox-eye daisies, butterflies, voles, frogs and toads all seem to be flourishing. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the raking party, which is beginning to falter slightly and would value some younger recruits.

In 2004, Stiffkey PCC kindly arranged for a donation of £250 towards some work that my wife Barbara and I are doing in Bangladesh. Keith McDougall has suggested that our experiences in that unfortunate country might be of interest to Lynx readers.

The first surprise on our arrival in January 2003 was the cold – misty every day, no sign of the sun except sometimes towards late afternoon and everyone swathed in scarves. After about three weeks the sun came out and within a week or so it was too hot! We spent three months with the Society for Social Service (SSS), a Bangladeshi NGO. Barbara taught english in their children’s home for ‘brothel children’ while I worked with the doctors in the SSS Hospital. We regard it as a major achievement to have stayed so long, for although the people are marvellous and the hospitality unmatched, the country is very much not a tourist destination. There was nothing to do except work and go to bed early!

That first visit was nevertheless invaluable for getting to know the people and what needed to be done. On our subsequent, shorter, visits I have been helping to set up an Iron Deficiency Programme and to improve the care of under-fives and their mothers, by implementing the WHO guidelines for the Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI). With the help of the Stiffkey donation, Barbara bought three TV/DVD sets for the various SSS schools. This coming winter we will be arranging further funding for diagnostic equipment for the SSS hospital. We will be going out again in March to organise this and to see how our various projects are progressing.

If anybody would like to help with SSS Bangladesh or the Stiffkey Conservation Area please contact Helen or John Adnitt. We always have a good picnic on the day!

Dr Bob Leaney

SCHOOL NEWS

The new reception group have settled in incredibly well and are enjoying the demands of Class 1, as well as the opportunities offered by our Outdoor Learning Area.

Emma Cotton has gone from strength to strength in Class 3 and is building on standards in all areas. We have Sue Malt in Class 2 for one day a week, until we can make a permanent appointment. She has worked well with the class and fits in really well.

Pearl, who has served hundreds of meals and been a key member of our team for many years, has left and Mary Marin (mother of Gabriella and Felicity) will be serving meals on behalf of Norfolk County Services.

Only one nomination for a Parent Governor was received and we welcome Charlie Ward, father of George. Annette McEwan was returned unopposed, as staff representative. Mike Green Harvest Service This, together with the following sale of food (fresh and packaged) raised over £44, which has been sent to the Association of Children’s Hospices. French Club Mrs Howes hopes to run a club early on Wednesdays 8.10 - 8.30 Scholastic Book Fair Our Book Fair will be Wed, 15th - Wed. 22nd Nov. If it is successful we can take up to 60% of takings in books. Cliff Norgate the storyteller will be with us on Wed, 15th

November, spending time with each class. Hip Hop Dance Club Fiona Anderson (our vicar’s daughter) is keen to start a club for Years 4 - 6, on Wednesdays, 4.10pm - 5.10pm. It should get everyone ‘reelin’ and rockin’! Inter-house Football Our tournament started soon after autumn half term, and takes place at lunch time on selected days. Christmas Fair Saturday, 2nd Dec. 10.00am - 2.00pm in the school. Cross Country Event We took a team of 25 athletes to Gresham’s Prep School for their first inter-school cross-country event. A great success. Special mentions to Hetty Taylor (who came 8th overall) and Jack Crawford who came 2nd and received a silver medal. Well done to everyone. School travel plan We have now received the funding of just over £4,000 and are liaising with the school council on how to spend it. Anyone interesting in joining the Safe Routes to School committee should contact Sal Savory. Good to see so many walking and cycling to school. Rugby tournament Our ‘tag rugby’ team enjoyed the tournament at Holt Rugby Club, thanks go to Simon Neale who worked so hard to hone their skills. It was really well organised, we hope to take part again next year.

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local lynx issue 51 - dec/jan 2007

Documents

langham carols

langham ladybirds

langham parish room

langham parish room

binham carols

binham road

langham mobile library

langham village school