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St Mary’s Church

VICAR:

Rev Sharon Miles

The Vicarage, The Bury, St Osyth,

CO16 8NY 01255 822055

CHURCHWARDEN

Wendy King

17 Larkfield Road - 01206 250852

CHURCHWARDEN:

Wendy Smith

Burnside, The Green - 01206 250098

TREASURER:

Penny Evans Jones The Old Rectory, The Green - 01206 250541

stmaryschurchtreasurer@gmail.com

CHURCH VERGER:

Rita Baverstock

Stonybroke, Station Road - 01206 251271

LAY READER:

Wendy King

17 Larkfield Road - 01206 250852

PCC SECRETARY:

Chris Aplin

Newmay House, The Green - 01206 250385

STEWARDSHIP SECRETARY:

Rosemary Branch

4 Wents Close - 01206 250137

TOWER CAPTAIN:

Roger Carey-Smith - 01206 250521

SUNDAY SCHOOL:

Linda Hayes

Ivy Lodge, Frating - 01206 250207

Maria Pagram

The Burrow, Plough Road - 01206 250280

VESTRY ROOM BOOKING SECRETARY:

Carole Allington

Poplar House, Station Road - 01206 251086

or ring Church Verger

PARISH MAGAZINE EDITOR/ADVERTISING/

DISTRIBUTOR:

Mary Maskell

Caldew Cottage, The Green

01206 250524

marymaskell@sys3internet.net

Carole Allington

carole@pncallington.co.uk

METHODIST MINISTER Rev Crawford Logan 37 Southcliff Park, Clacton on Sea, CO15 6HH - 01255 423640

DOCTOR’S SURGERY: Drs F. Bhatti, R.S. O’Reilly, A. Nambi, K. Chumbley, S. Rokkam, B. Muir and G. Pontikis. The Hollies, The Green - 01206 250691

CHIROPODIST: Terry St George - 01255 861387: Mobile: 07775 833200

POLICE: Clacton 0300 333 4444 24 hour Non emergency number 101

In an emergency ring 999

PCSO Louise Cox, Community mobile 07801 316876 or 101 ext. 487703. email: louise.cox@essex.pnn.police.uk

PARISH COUNCIL: Chairman - Jonathan Hills,Grange Farm, Heckfords Rd, CO78RR - 01206 798666

Clerk to the Council - Kevin Harkin Correspondence to: The Clerk, Community Resource Centre, Village Hall, Plough Road, Great Bentley, CO7 8LD Telephone - 01206 256410

TENDRING DISTRICT COUNCILLOR: Lynda McWilliams, Boblyn, St Mary’s Road, Aingers Green - 01206 250732

COUNTY COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE: Alan Goggin, Freshfields, Church Road, Brightlingsea, CO7 OQT 01206 308023 Mobile: 07860 519117 email: egog@btinternet.com

GOOD NEIGHBOURS TRANSPORT: Barbara Fookes - 01206 250431

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH: Richard Nowak - 01206 250204

MEDICAL AIDS: Contact Good Neighbours - 01206 25087

TENDRING FURNITURE SCHEME: Rocket House, Gorse Lane Industrial Estate, Clacton: 01255 476068

VILLAGE HALL BOOKINGS: Shelley Pizzey, 5 Keeble Court – 01206 252385

METHODIST HALL BOOKINGS: Robert & Janet Taylor, Dominica, Moors Close - 01206 250087

GT BENTLEY PRIMARY SCHOOL: - 01206 250331

COLNE COMMUNITY SCHOOL: - 01206 303511

VILLAGE HISTORY RECORDER: Heather Taylor, Granville, Plough Road - 01206 251004

COLCHESTER HOSPITALS: 01206 747474

CLACTON & DISTRICT HOSPITAL: 01255 201717

FOOTPATH REP: David Gollifer 01206 250309

DONATIONS FOR ANIMAL RESCUE CENTRE: Judy & Alan Bishop - 5 Morella Close, 01206 251702

VILLAGE TRANSPORT REP: Peter Harry - 01206 250511

VILLAGE CORRESPONDENT: Sue Gibson, 1 Cedar Way, e-mail: suegibson_63@hotmail.com

VILLAGE CARETAKER: Bobby McWilliams, Boblyn, St Mary’s Rd, Aingers Green 01206 250732

Village Information

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2015

CONTENTS

Editorial .. .. .. 1

Monthly Letters.. .. .. 2/3

Church Services .. .. 4

Church Rotas .. .. 5

Thank You.. .. .. 6

Congratulations .. .. 7

Deadline .. .. .. 8

Police News .. .. .. 11

Letters .. .. .. .. 13 & 20

Peter’s Potterings .. .. 15

Surgery News .. .. .. 16

Pet’s Corner .. .. .. 17

Wildlives .. .. .. 18

Running Club .. .. .. 19

Quiz .. .. .. .. 21

Clubs & Organisations .. 23

Children’s Page .. .. 24

District Councillor Notes.. .. 25

Pre-School .. .. .. 26

Protect Gt Bentley .. .. 28-29

Cricket .. .. .. .. 33

Parish Council .. .. 34

Farming News .. .. 35

History Society .. .. 36

Football Notes .. .. 38

FRONT COVER

Our new bus shelter being

installed

DISCLAIMER

Neither the Church Wardens, Parochial Church Council, nor the Editor take responsibility for the information given or views expressed in the Great Bentley Parish News. Nor is any culpability accepted in work undertaken by advertisers.

EDITORIAL

I can’t remember when we last had an election for a Parish Councillor but we have two candidates standing for the vacancy created by the recent resignation of Lynda McWilliams. We have included a photograph and half page of text for each person giving a brief resume on themselves and their aspirations if successful. The election will take place on 3rd September and the Parish Council meeting will still take place on the same day. Please note that the presentation by Edward Gittins and Associates pertaining to the development at Plough Road/St Mary’s Farm will now take place on 10th September in the Village Hall at 7pm. See page 13. Obviously the main topic of village conversation/concern at present is centred around the various housing development proposals. Whatever your views on this issue you have to applaud the massive amount of work and research which the Protect Great Bentley campaigners have devoted to finding out the true facts surrounding these proposals and disseminating the information to the general public. I do find it alarming that people can support any one of these Great Bentley developments wholeheartedly via the Planning website when they actually live in every corner of the County and beyond, and which will of course have no impact on them whatsoever, see pages 28 and 29. On a positive note you will see from the front cover that we have a new bus shelter on Thorrington Road, many thanks to Doug Gibbs for his persistence in this matter and to Peter Harry our Transport Rep who sourced the relevant funding and a suitably designed shelter. We now need people to use the buses on a regular basis to make sure that the shelter does not become obsolete. During August we had many gaps in our monthly diary but September sees us offering all manner of events to cover all tastes. One annual treat which encompasses every conceivable interest is of course our Village Show on 5th September. Something for all age ranges; crafts, flower and vegetable growing talents, photographic skills etc will be on display and outside the marquee the Companion Dog Show and numerous stalls etc. will be there to tempt you. I say this every year but please consider entering something; a single rose, a vase of flowers, a photograph, some vegetablesG.the list is endless. All details are included on page 27. We repeat the advertisement for the concert featuring The Military Wives Choir which although not taking place until October has already sold half of the tickets, so don’t delay book today!!! Details on page 35. Another important date for your diary is St Mary’s Church Flower Festival & Art Exhibition which will be held on the 19th and 20th September. Michaelmas Day is the traditional time for the payment of allotment rents. In the national press Charlie Dimmock has advocated decreasing the size of allotment plots so that everyone can have a plot if they so wish. We buck the trend in Great Bentley as we will definitely have some spare plots so if you are keen to “Grow Your Own”, why not contact the Parish Clerk for details. Our regular Surgery Notes are encouraging us to lose weight and keep fit and this could really fit the bill. We have just filled the last advertising space for 2015, which is Hill Farm Landscapes, see page R. Lots to keep us occupied this month. Enjoy. Mary Maskell

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The Monthly Letters September 2015

From the Curate

As residents on or near the East Coast, we in Great Bentley & St Osyth walk upon a land rich in history and significance. Our Christian forebears have worshipped here for nearly 900 years. The original church of St Mary the Virgin, Great Bentley, was built 1130 - 1140; St Osyth’s church St Peter & St Paul was consecrated in 1170 fifty years after the Priory was founded in 1120. Just as Great Bentley’s green, the largest in England, has been generously preserved for future generations, so have these important historic buildings which are in our care, iconic reminders of our Christian heritage. As you read this article, we will be approaching St Osyth Day, which is celebrated every year on October 7

th. With the kind permission of the property owners, there is a tradition of holding a service of Evensong in the

chapel of the Priory. Last year it was my privilege to lead the service and preach in this ancient chapel and, having been asked to contribute to the Parish Magazines, I thought to offer the main content of that sermon for publication: “It is good to be here in this Chapel of St Osyth for our annual service of Evensong on St Osyth Day, and we are grateful to the present owners for giving us access. One of a number of saints from Anglo-Saxon royal dynasties, St Osyth was the granddaughter of the powerful and formidable pagan King of Mercia. It is on the record that, “King Penda did not forbid the preaching of the Word, even in his own Mercian kingdom, if anyone wished to hear it. But he hated and despised those who, after they had accepted the Christian faith, were clearly lacking in the works of faith. He said they were despicable and wretched creatures who scorned to obey the God in whom they believed.” There is no doubting that his granddaughter won respect for the ardour and whole-heartedness of her Christian faith. She received the large gift of land around us from her royal family. It was given to her to live out her dream, her Christian calling. The result was that Osyth became a significant influence in the Christianising of the East Saxons. St Osyth was highly regarded and well known for miracles and works of wonder. She most definitely set a bright light in this land of pagan darkness, not least by her martyrdom. Despite some doubt existing over the details of her history, the change of village name from Chich to St Osyth, and the priory that carries her name, are alone a testament to the impact she had as a Christian woman. Her grandfather would have respected Osyth, for her life and her death were evidence of her full-on and unashamed obedience to God. As we sit here today, in a place that bears the name of a devout and faithful Christian woman, we thank God for those that pioneered Christianity in Essex, like St Osyth and St Cedd. Osyth lived at the cutting edge of change, literally, in the turbulent times of the Early Middle-Ages. Yet the call on us today, as Christians in Essex, still remains: to make known to the people in this area the Lord’s graciousness, compassion and mercy; to make known his mighty acts and the glorious majesty of his kingdom, the kingdom of heaven. Scripture reminds us to keep our lights burning, to fear not, put our dreams and hopes in that which is eternal, to keep ready for the return of the King of the universe, that we might one day sit down and eat with him.” With my very best wishes Revd Eddie Howson

SUPPORT IN LOSS

The Support in Loss Group for September 7th will be meeting at Dave's for coffee in Aingers Green (High Hedges, opposite The Oaks, St Mary’s Road) followed by lunch at The Barn Café. Time: 11.30am at Dave's for coffee 12.00 The Barn Cafe for lunch. If you are interested please contact Stephanie Sadler on 01206 250544 as soon as possible so she can book the tables.

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SEPTEMBER PRAYER LIST

Each day we will be praying for those that need help, those who give help and all the people who live in each road. That’s a lot of praying to be done.

The Monthly Letters September 2015 I was anticipating a phone call, confirmation that the lovely family who I had met whilst working on a 'pulpit swap' in Shelbyville, Illinois, had arrived safely in London and were getting ready to board the train for Glasgow - to share a holiday with me there. The phone did ring, but to my horror I could not understand a word of what was happening, I could just about make out the American accents but the chaos of sirens, screaming, shouting, crying put me instantly in a panic. It was the morning of 7th July 2005, at that stage I had not heard any of the news and was completely unaware of what had just happened. 'There has been a bombing' is eventually what I heard down the phone, 'and we were on the underground train that had the bomb.' I froze, not knowing how to respond to this information, understanding eventually the chaos and the terror of this young family, I told them to find somewhere safe and I would drive down from Scotland to fetch them. I will never forget the scene that greeted me, London was in absolute chaos, I was stopped by police a number of times but allowed to continue with my journey when I explained the situation of trying to retrieve this family. Mr and Mrs Bitzer and their 11 year old son were waiting - and as I arrived I saw them, blackened by the soot and smoke and completely in shock. I quickly got them into the car and on the journey back to Glasgow, slowly the story began to be told. After the explosion their carriage filled with smoke, they were stuck in the tunnel and no one seemed to have any idea of what to do. Mrs Bitzer explained how a very well dressed 'English gentleman' came over to them and guided them to a window, 'he took off his expensive designer shoe' she said, 'and smashed a window with it', then she said how thankful she was as this young man helped them and others through the window and out into the semi darkness of the tunnel. 'As we made our way with the other passengers to the station, I put my hands over my sons eyes so he would not witness the carnage that was before us.' Obviously, with the anniversary of this horrific event, my memory has taken me on that journey once more and I prayed in earnest, for all those who survived that unimaginable horror and today continue to live with the aftermath, as well as remembering those innocent folk who lost their lives that day, may they rest in peace. 'Make me a channel of your peace' is the beautiful prayer of St Francis of Assisi - 'where there is hatred let me bring Your love'. In these sad times, may we all seek to be channels of peace and bringers of love. God Bless You, Crawford Methodist Minister

1 Doctors Air Ambulance 2 Morella Close The Homeless 3 Family Church Pre-School Children 4 Linnet Close Blind & Partially Sighted 5 The Lonely Salvation Army 6 St Mary’s Close Beacon House 7 Messy Church St John Ambulance 8 The Green The Abused 9 Housebound Macmillan Nurses 10 Hollybush Hill R.A.D. for the deaf 11 St Helena’s Hospice Farmers 12 Shair Lane Explorer Scouts 13 The Vicar Samaritans 14 Weeley Road Action for Children 15 The grieving Clacton Soup Run

16 Aingers Green Wildlives 17 Churchwardens Children’s Hospice 18 Robin Close 1st Gt Bentley Scouts 19 Methodist Minister Parent Line 20 Woodgreen Estate Essex Voluntary

Association for the Blind

21 The sick Premature Babies 22 Elm Close Luncheon Club 23 School Girl Guides 24 St Mary’s Road Parent & Toddlers 25 Church Sunday School First Responders 26 Flagship Park Open Road 27 Church Stewards Fair Trade 28 Station Road Trefoil Guild 29 Adventurer’s Club Local Food Bank 30 George Mitchell Close Victim Support

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CHURCH SERVICES AND EVENTS IN

GREAT BENTLEY DURING SEPTEMBER

METHODIST

CHURCH NEWS

ST MARY’S CHURCH

Tues 1st 1pm Funeral of Iris Simmons Thurs 3rd 2pm Bible Study, Vestry Room SUNDAY 6th SEPTEMBER - Trinity 14 9.30am Sung Eucharist Mon 7th 11.30am Support in Loss will be meeting at High Hedges, St Mary’s Road, Aingers Green followed by lunch at The Barn Café at 12noon. SUNDAY 13th SEPTEMBER - Trinity 15 9.30am All Age Worship with Communion Tues 15th 2.00pm Bible Study, Vestry Room Sat 19th Flower Festival & Art Exhibition 10am - 5pm 6.30pm Memorial Service for Rita Coles SUNDAY 20th SEPTEMBER - Trinity 16 9.30am Sung Eucharist 11.00am-5pm Flower Festival & Art Exhibition Fri 25th 9am Magazine Collating Vestry Room SUNDAY 27th SEPTEMBER - HARVEST FESTIVAL 8.00am Holy Communion

MEMORIAL SERVICE

A Memorial Service in memory of Rita Coles will take place

in St Mary’s Church at 6.30pm on Saturday 19th September

All Welcome

Donations may be made in memory of Rita to St Helena’s Hospice and special envelopes

will be provided on the evening

See more detail on “www.facebook.com/pages/Great-Bentley-Methodist-Church/776699562367528” We welcome you to worship with us during September. Morning worship will be held at 10.00am unless otherwise stated. The leaders of worship are set out below:- September 6

th Rev Crawford Logan

September 13th

Brian Llewellyn September 20

th Rev Crawford Logan -

Harvest and Sacrament September 27

th Jane Allison

Flower Festival A huge thank you to Jackie and reps from village groups who made the Church look beautiful with flower arrangements. We had a good weekend and raised over £1000. Tables New easy chairs and coffee tables. We have had a generous donation of these items for our church and have 7 old primary school tables to give to a good home. If you are interested please ring 250087.

Events in September

NEW: Come for tea at half past three Sunday 27

th September 3.30pm Everyone is invited to

afternoon tea with sandwiches, sausage rolls, scones and cakes. A chance to meet, have a chat and of course tea. If you need transport, please ring 250087. Coffee Morning 4

th September for Church Funds

Cameo 7th September 6.30pm led by Rita Sharpe who

will talk about her trip to the Holy land. Parent & Toddlers Restarts 10

th September

Adventurers Club Restarts 11th September

Harvest Festival The Harvest service on the 20th will

be led by Crawford Logan including Sacrament and followed by our Harvest Lunch Luncheon Club 1

st 15

th and 29

th September

If you would like to come along to the Luncheon Club please ring 251330 and talk to Brenda. Come and see if you enjoy the meal and company before you commit yourself to coming each time. Transport can be arranged to help those unable to get to the Methodist Church. Messy Church 29

th September

Each week the following events are held at our Church. Ring these numbers for more information Luncheon Club Alternate Tuesdays 12 Noon 251330 Parent & Toddlers Group Thursdays 9 - 15 a.m. 250431 Adventurers Fridays 7 p.m. 250087. For children in school year 3 and older. Closed in school holidays. Village Teen Youth Club restarts on the 10

th September

at 7pm

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ST MARY’S CHURCH

SIDESPERSONS ROTA

Sunday 6th September - Trinity 14 Proverbs 22.1-2, 8-9,22-23: James 2.1-10,14-17: Mark 7.24-end

Sidespersons & Readers - Carole & Peter Allington Intercessions - Maria Pagram Sunday 13th September - Trinity 15 Proverbs 1.20-33: James 3.1-12: Mark 8.27-end:

Sidespersons - Maria Pagram & Stephanie Sadler Intercessions - Wendy King Sunday 20th September - Trinity 16 Proverbs 31.10-end: James 3.13-4.3,7-8a: Mark 9.30-37:

Sidesperson s - David & Nadine McKinlay Intercessions - Janet Strutt Sunday 27th September - Harvest Festival Joel 2.21-27: 1 Timothy 6.6-10: Matthew 6.25-33:

Sidesperson & Reader - George Wright Intercessions - George Wright

COFFEE ROTA

6th Carole & Peter Allington

13th Pat Nunn & Eve Hickley

20th Flower Festival (No Coffee)

27th David & Nadine McKinlay

CLEANING ROTA

5th Rosemary & David Branch

13th Edna Black

20th Nicky Justice

27th Rosemary Newman

GREAT BENTLEY YOUTH CLUB Dates for Youth club for autumn 2015. They are as follows all at 7pm to 9pm:-

10th September, 24

th September,

8th October, 22

nd October,

5th November, 19

th November,

3rd

December, 17th December.

Just to remind you that the Club is open for all young people of Secondary School age and is held at the Methodist Church on alternate Thursdays. Appeal As always with providing activities for young people we need more adults to help since inevitably some have to drop out. It involves an evening session normally from 7pm to 9pm. Contact me, or Jo Herbert or Roni Dickeson if you can help. Robert Taylor 01206 250087

LITTER IN THE CHURCHYARD

A lot of litter has been desposited in the churchyard lately. Would anyone using the churchyard PLEASE TAKE THEIR RUBBISH HOME. Thank you

HARVEST FESTIVAL

St Mary’s Church

Sunday 27th September

9.30am

All welcome

We would appreciate donations of

non-perishable food as this will be taken

to the Food Bank

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Animal Bedding It has been our delight to receive several wonderful donations of splendid assorted bedding and towels in recent weeks. Judy enjoyed sorting, bagging up and labelling and as is often the case a walk down ‘memory lane’ of when she worked in the linen and drapery trade to see goods that are so familiar of those days. This done we had to get it to where it was most needed and as quickly as possible and that place was the Suffolk Coastal Rescue at Hacheston. Our only free day at that time was a Sunday which is not the most convenient day for rescues as hopefully they would expect prospective new owners to visit, however we rang and Emma answered the phone and said “please come, we need it“. When we arrived we were just in time to witness a dog being put into the rear of a car with a lady and gentleman who were taking him to what will be his forever home. For him it was his lucky day. However as we carried all the bags of bedding to the storage area at the back of the dogs indoor quarters there was the now familiar sight and noise of all manner of dogs in all shapes and sizes awaiting their turn to be lucky too. One cannot help but feel a pang of sadness that we are not in a position to gather them all up and take them home with us. Our consolation was that along with the bedding we had food and lots of treats to be shared amongst them after we had left as you can see in the picture of Emma standing next to some of our delivery with the ever important home made Lemon Drizzle Cake to be enjoyed over a cup of tea with Jane and Steve later in the day. Emma was happy to be photographed but didn’t want to see it!! She is a loyal and trusted employee without whom Jane and Steve could not manage. They are so grateful for the support that our village gives to them as are all the rescues. Our ‘ladies who knit’ have been prolific which means we can provide a constant regular supply of blankets to meet the need of a staggering amount of cats and kittens arriving at the rescues. The increase in the feral population is at crisis point. The search for people with livery stables, farm or small holding with a barn who could take neutered cats and kittens, provide shelter and regular food has become increasingly difficult to find. There are groups who specialise in locating and humanely trapping feral cats but they have no facilities to accommodate them once they have been neutered to allow recovery from surgery, the obvious trauma incurred and finding somewhere for them to go. Sadly often the only option is to place them back from whence they came and endeavour to find someone to feed them. All this is brought about by peoples irresponsibility in NOT having their cat neutered. It is the mother and kittens who have to be caught, if this is done early enough they can be brought round with time and patience, however in the mean time the tom cat goes around creating yet more litters! We have made a wide circle of friends in the 18 years that we have lived in Great Bentley who in many different ways are involved in cat/kitten/dog rescue and re-homing. We all try to help and support

each other in any way we can. It is a comfort that through your continued help we are able to play our part. Grateful thanks to each and every one of you. We do not take it for granted. Judy & Alan Bishop, 5 Morella Close. Tel: 251702

A total of £580 was raised for the British Heart Foundation in memory of Rosemary Pegg. Thank you for your support. David Gollifer I would like to thank everyone for their love and support during Rita’s illness. It meant so much to us both. Thank you for all of the cards, flowers etc received on the loss of Rita who was buried at Kirby Hill, Yorkshire, in a beautiful spot overlooking the moors. Thanks also to the nurses of Single Point (Hospice at Home), to Great Bentley Football Club, Bentley Green Players, members of St Mary’s church and everyone who has supported me. Your kindness has helped me through a very difficult time. After 34 years I will be leaving Great Bentley, a village I have loved to be a part of. I am moving to York sh ire and m y address wi l l be 20, Manor Drive, Kirby Hill, Boroughbridge, York YO51 9DY A memorial service to celebrate Rita’s will be held in September. (If you wish to make a donation in memory of Rita there will be a collection plate at the back of the church in aid of St Helena Hospice.) Full details on page 4. You will be most welcome to attend. Thank you everyone, Alan Coles

FAREWELL & WELCOME

A sad farewell to Alan Coles who has moved to Yorkshire and welcome to the new residents at Tharricks Lea. A warm welcome to Emma, Rob, Isla, Amelie, Martha and Rosie are moving in to Barley View, Sturrick Lane and also their neighbours Sarah, James, Luca and Macey. Welcome also to new residents at 2 Station Cottages and 1 and 2 Purple Cottage, New Cut.

Bus Shelter

Last month saw the building of a bus shelter in Thorrington Road. One person who I am sure will be most pleased is Mr. Doug Gibbs who was until recently a regular user of the bus that stops there and a long time campaigner for the shelter. Persistence sometimes does work!! Unfortunately due to health reasons, Doug is not able to make use of it at the moment but I am sure that regular users will appreciate waiting for the bus in the ‘Doug Gibbs’ shelter. Time now maybe for other bus users to start a second campaign for a shelter at possibly Aingers Green? Last thought – maybe somebody could organise a small plaque to recognise the amount of work put in by Doug!! Michael Dorling

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An Introduction – Dance in Great Bentley

First of all, let me introduce myself, my name is Samantha Cantrell, I am the proud new Principal of the weekly disco and street dance classes held at Great Bentley Village Hall every Saturday morning. For the past 24 years I have been attending these classes (and in more recent years teaching), with my incredible dance teacher Julie Hearn and her dance school the Jays School of Dance. Julie has been at the village hall teaching disco and street dance for the past 30 years since the hall opened. She decided this year that she would retire from the disco and street side of dance (although she does still teach Ballroom and Latin in other locations) and she asked me if I would like to take over. I jumped at the opportunity. Great Bentley Village Hall has and always will have special memories for me and I can't wait to help create more amazing memories for my pupils. If you or your children are interested in coming along on a Saturday morning, we restart after the summer holidays on Saturday 5

th

September and have the following classes available:- 3-7yrs 9:30-10:00am

8-12yrs 10:00-10:45am

13-Advanced Adults 10:30-11:15am We take part in demonstrations, carnivals, exams, competitions or you can come along just for the fun of it!! Your first class is free to see what you think, 30 minute classes are £3.00 and 45 minute classes are £3.50. If you want any more information you can email me on igniteddanceessex@gmail.com or phone me on 07824 341666.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

JACK ALLINGTON

will be 90 on 19th September Love from all his family and friends

Peter and Carole Allington

Happy Golden Wedding Anniversary

Mum and Dad

on 25th September

Love from Mark, Hilary, Matthew and James, Julie, Keith and Daisy

Joyce and Ralph Butler

Congratulations on your Diamond Wedding

Anniversary

10th September

With lots of love from all the family

BETH WHITE and

MATT CAUDLE

Congratulations on the birth of your beautiful son

Jack Anthony

Born 21st July

Weighing 6lb 8 oz

All our love Mum, Dad, Amy, Justin, Andrew, Sam, Fay, James, Aidan, Kane, Leon, Faith

and all your family and friends

xxxxxxxx

Bentley Green Ladies

Invite you to a

QUIZ NIGHT

Saturday 10th October

Great Bentley Village Hall

7pm for 7.30pm start

£4 per person with teams of 6-8 people

To book a table ring Billie on 01206 250438 or you can just turn up on the night - all welcome

Bring your own drinks and nibbles

Raffle

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DEADLINE FOR THE

OCTOBER 2015 magazine

Monday 14th September 2015

Material to Mary Maskell, Caldew Cottage, The Green, 250524

Please mark all material - “Parish Magazine”

email: carole@pncallington.co.uk AND marymaskell@sys3internet.net

IMPORTANT - PLEASE SEND ALL INFORMATION TO BOTH OF US

Great Bentley Website: www.greatbentleyparishcouncil.co.uk

BADMINTON PLAYERS WANTED

Come and join us on Tuesday evenings between 8pm and 10pm in Great Bentley Village Hall, Plough Road. (Next to the railway station). We do have spare racquets if required and if it is a while since you have played come and give it a go, however no beginners please. For further information please contact Jo Day on 01206 250452.

MERCURY THEATRE COLCHESTER

Colchester Operatic Society

10th-19th September

“Legally Blonde”

20th-30th January 2016

“Sister Act”

Both shows are likely to be really popular so book early

AUTUMN SERENADE

A vocal concert starring G

Lawford Church Choir Chorus Iceni and

Manningtree High School Choir

Saturday 3rd October Commencing at 7.00pm

St Mary’s Church, Lawford

£5 per ticket (includes refreshments)

Please call:

07813 254724, 01206 396437 or 07779 259836

Also available after some church services and at the door.

GREAT BENTLEY CARNIVAL COMMITTEE

I hereby give notice that the ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING of the Great Bentley Carnival Committee will be held on THURSDAY 15 OCTOBER at 8.00 p.m. in the Michael Wright Room, Great Bentley Village Hall, Plough Road, Great Bentley.

Members of the public are warmly invited to attend.

At the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting the profits from our 2015 carnival will be distributed to the beneficiaries, with each one receiving a cheque for £500.

Brenda Eyers Carnival Chairman 01206 250594

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Village Veggies

Going on holiday to Llandudno, via – Manchester!

This was not the result of a major error in map reading or a sat.nav. malfunction. No, this was a purposely planned detour by us in order that we could attend an event in Manchester and then go on to our holiday destination in North Wales. The Vegetarian Society was publicising a major event this year called KIN 2015 which was going to be held in Manchester in July. This, the first by them for a number of years would feature many guest speakers, cookery demonstrations and workshops and be chaired by the regular reporter from BBC 1’s ‘Country File’ programme Tom Heap. We travelled up the day before and following a long and gruelling journey along the M6, checked into the Victoria Warehouse hotel in Manchester, part of the complex where the event was taking place. Our experiences there could form the basis of an article in itself. Needless to say we don’t think converted old warehouses make very good hotels. The next morning, a few steps took us into the venue. Tom Heap opened the proceedings outlining his background in radio and TV journalism and said that he now specialises in reporting items connected with agriculture, environment, food and energy. He said that he had great interest in the subjects on the agenda for the day but confessed that he himself was not a vegetarian. With a total of eleven speakers appearing throughout the day in three lecture rooms as well as the four cookery sessions we had to decide which ones we would attend. We prioritised those dealing with climate change and global warming due to its importance and the fact we had never seen those speakers dealing with these issues before. Tony Juniper, former director of Friends of the Earth and author of ‘Saving the Planet’ gave a confident and informative presentation titled ‘What on earth are you eating’. He basically illustrated how efforts to accommodate an ever increasing world livestock population is effecting the world environment through increased conversion of land for animal feed crops with consequential loss of habitat and the vast amounts of fresh water that is needed for this type of agriculture. If the rather deep and complex subject of climate change could be given a lighter approach then George Marshall certainly did this. Founder of ‘The Climate Outreach and Information Network’ he gave a talk which concentrated on human attitudes towards climate change. He gave examples of how we as individuals as well as companies and organisations tend to justify one environmentally bad habit by proclaiming to be champions of many other good habits even though the net effects could be way out of proportion. Philip Lymbery, c.e.o. of Compassion In World Farming told of his travels across the world to carry out research work for his much acclaimed book ‘Farmageddon’. From the ever increasing intensive pig and poultry units in China to the massive beef cattle feedlot areas of Argentina and to the Central Valley in California now host to one of the biggest concentration of mega dairies in the world. He also stated that this area of the USA is the leading producer of almonds. This however is now only possible with the importation of some 40 billion bees annually for pollination. Deborah Doane, former director of the World Development Movement gave a talk about how the global food system has a human cost by displacing farming communities when big agri-businesses move in. She cited India as having one of the highest suicide rates amongst its farmers. Being a board member of the Fair Trade Foundation she stressed the importance for consumers to seek out fair trade products. Duncan Williamson, with a less than effective PA system talked about his work as Food Policy manager at the World Wildlife Fund UK. He gave examples of declining habitat for wild life through the destruction of rainforests in South America for soya bean crops and a similar situation in South East Asia where forests have been cleared for palm oil production. This has had a particularly devastating effect in Borneo for the orang-utan population. He pointed out that nearly all processed food around the world contained some soya product or palm oil. Unfortunately for us, all the places on the cookery sessions had been pre-booked. They covered such things as veggie dishes from around the world, cooking with tofu and light and easy options for the health conscious. We had fitted in all we could during the day and it was time for the concluding session. All the speakers assembled on the stage for question and answers. Tom Heap co-ordinated the session and also answered some questions directed at him. One member of the audience asked if after the day’s events he had any thoughts about becoming a vegetarian. Tom didn’t make any firm commitments. We both thought the day had been very informative, well organised and worth attending. The thing that most impressed me was that speakers seem to have been chosen for their depth of knowledge on a particular subject without the pre-requisite of being a vegetarian. The talks that we went to gave a clear message that addressing climate change is not just about generating renewable energies, reducing usage of fossil fuels or energy conservation. What we choose in our diet can have a major impact as well. The Vegetarian Society has a primary function of giving advice to those considering a vegetarian diet, and support to those that are already on one. They do however, recognise that a global shift towards a more plant based diet; e.g. meat reduction would make a major contribution towards addressing the effects of climate change. It was one more night for us in a windowless hotel room before moving on to our B and B in Llandudno to enjoy our holiday. An unusual start to a holiday but time to reflect on some of the content of the conference while enjoying the promenade, the pier, West shore, the Great Orme and Mostyn street. Roy Parker

12

Great Bentley Wine Tasting Group

For further details please contact Colin and Roni on 01206 252157 or e mail zindhum@hotmail.com

The wine tasting group established in August 2012 continues to hold enjoyable and informative evenings. For details please contact the above. Free advise available too, so please do contact me. The following wines come highly recommended for you to try and are perfect for drinking now; Luberon Perrin 2014 The Wine Society £7.99 This is a lovely dry white wine. It smells and tastes of white peach and cream. Delicious and perfect for any summer picnic.

Fresh, fruity dry Rose of great character and quality. This is sure to turn any non drinking rose wine buff into a fan. It is delicious and very classy. Available from Waitrose larger stores or on line and worth every penny of the £14.99 price tag. Each month we taste between 6 and 10 wines from £3.99 to £40 a bottle and it is a chance to taste a number of wines in comfort before you rush out and commit. Do call for more details. ............ spaces available Date of wine tasting Friday 25th September

Bandol Domaine Lafran-Veyrolles Rose

Great Bentley Primary School

For those parents who are applying for Reception 2016 places, we will be holding

Open Days for parents and carers to tour the school and ask any questions on the

following days:

Wednesday 14th October 2015 at 1.00pm and 2.00pm

Thursday 3rd December 2015 at 1.00pm and 2.00pm

Please contact the school office on 01206 250331 to book a place.

Pharmacy News At The Green Pharmacy we are always very busy and very grateful for the understanding of all of our customers. We would like to bring to your attention Betterlife, a brand

which has always been associated with Lloyds Pharmacy. Since May 2015 we have stocked a selection of items from this brand within the pharmacy and have a catalogue which is available for you to take away with you. Items within this catalogue assist with day to day activities and well-being, from mobility scooters and wheelchairs to reclining chairs and pedal exercisers. Any items within the catalogue can be ordered for you in-store and delivered to your home free of charge. Our pharmacy, which is situated just down the road from the surgery and Restaurant 43, stocks a range of products. We provide a number of services for the local and expanding communities which include emergency contraception for those aged 16 and over, disposal of unwanted medicines, confidential advice service, smoking cessation scheme and free medicine reviews with one of our pharmacists. We also stock a range of products which include family planning, toiletries for the whole family, baby needs, oral hygiene, cosmetics & skin care, hair accessories, veterinary products, gifts and many more. We offer a free home prescription delivery service for all of our customers. However please note that prescriptions must be received by the patient or by a designated neighbour. Prescriptions cannot be left other than with the patient or a representative, at any time. Gavin Pamment – Sales Floor Manager

In July in the rain I went The Colchester bus, never late.

At last someone does care. In August, a bus shelter is there.

I can moan no more, Envy other villages’ bus shelters,

evermore. A shelter, a seat to sit in out of the rain,

To Colchester, I am glad I came.

D. Gibbs

13

Great Bentley Neighbourhood Policing Team

Neighbourhood Constable Pc Dan Heard Police Community Support Officer Louise Cox Anti-social behaviour The term anti-social behaviour covers a wide range of selfish and unacceptable activity that can blight community life. It's any form of intimidating or destructive activity that damages or destroys another person's quality of life. We define it as "engaging in or threatening to engage in, conduct causing, or likely to cause, a nuisance or annoyance to persons engaged in lawful activities" and "behaviour that unreasonably interferes with other people's rights to the use and enjoyment of their home and community." Most types of anti-social behaviour fit into one of three categories:

• Street problems e.g, intimidation, begging, public drug dealing, reckless driving on mini-motorbikes

• Nuisance neighbours e.g, excessive noise, animal-related problems, harrassment and criminal damage

• Environmental crime e.g, littering, graffiti, vandalism and fly-tipping Government proposals for change Reducing anti-social behaviour is a key priority for Essex Police as well as the government.

• In May 2012 the government published a white paper entitled 'Putting victims first - more effective responses to anti-social behaviour' which sets out their plans to introduce more effective measures to tackle anti-social behaviour.

It includes proposals to change the tools and powers available to police, councils and other agencies who deal with anti-social behaviour. If given the green light, the proposal could see the introduction of community triggers whereby if five or more people make a complaint that is not followed through, they are able to escalate it to agencies like Essex Police who will provide a response. If introduced, the proposals would also see Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (known as ASBOs) replaced with two new orders - a criminal behaviour order and a crime prevention injunction. Below is a breakdown of all reported incidents for the month of July Highway Disruption -1 Road Related – 1 Tree down – 1 Information -3 Domestic Abuse -2 Alarm Activation – 2 Both false Activations Silent 999 call -1 Call made in error Prevent Breach of the Peace -1 Rtc -1 Assault- 1 Incident between school children Nuisance Neighbour -2 Nuisance Other – 1 Report of youths driving a motorbike around the village in a dangerous manner Suspicious Circumstances – 3 Report of male acting suspiciously in an alleyway – on police attendance all was in order * Report of the sound of possible gun shots – on police attendance this was coming from * farmland shooting rabbits * Report of a suspicious male advertising he would lay new driveways * Drugs – 1 Essex Community Messaging Sign up for free to receive information, crime prevention advice and notifications from Essex Police and other key partners, such as Neighbourhood Watch - please see the below link http://www.essex.police.uk/ecm

14

ST MARY’S CHURCH

FLOWER FESTIVAL

&

ART EXHIBITION

Saturday 19th September

10.00am - 5.00pm

Sunday 20th September

11.00am - 5.00pm

Floral theme - ‘Saints’

Stalls - Lunches

Refreshments

If you have any tombola prizes or raffle prizes we would be very grateful.

Please deliver to Peter Allington, Poplar House, Station Road - 251086.

Cakes for refreshments during the Festival would be much appreciated. We are well known for our home baked cakes and nice cups of tea!

SANDMAN 2015 Have you got what it takes?

SANDMAN is back for a second year. This 5km challenging obstacle race is organised by local charity St Helena Hospice. Taking place on Saturday 24

th October at Cut Hedge Park in

Halstead from 9.00am; the hospice is teaming up with Mucky Races again who will be designing and building the course with the inclusion of man-made obstacles and lots of mud. Registration for SANDMAN 2015 is just £25 per person with the hospice encouraging people to sign up as teams so that those taking part have support throughout the course. When registering there will be an option of start times, 10.00am or 1.00pm as well as the option to purchase a commemorative SANDMAN 2015 t-shirt. Participants must be 16 to take part, and those under the age of 18 must have parental/guardian consent. By taking part each participant commits to raising a minimum of £25 through sponsorship for St Helena Hospice which will enable the staff and volunteers to continue with the important work that they do in the local area. Sign up and find more information online at www.sthelenahospice.org.uk/sandman15 or call our fundraising team on 01206 931468. Registration closes on Friday 18th October at 12pm.

BRIGHTLINGSEA PANTHERS

Brightlingsea Panthers are a small friendly rugby club who meet every Sunday from 6th September at Strangers Corner in Brightlingsea. Come rain, mud, wind, more mud and some occassional sunshine with even more mud, we meet.

We are looking to recruit both boys and girls aged from 5 to 16 years to train and play in the regular matches organised with other local teams. Training is from 10.30 until 12noon.

The first session is free for all new comers wanting to try out, before committing fully to joining the club as a member for the season. Then £2 a session thereafter.

Coaching staff are all qualified and the club is looking to recruit parents, former rugby players and (young, youngish and young at heart) sportsmen and women to assist them through training qualifications to support the coaching staff already in place and the club as a whole.

This is a really good way to make new friends, have fun and keep fit (and that is just the parents on the side line!) There is a Christmas Fun day, annual presentation with medals and trophies and a summer social for all the players and families.

Any enquiries can be emailed to brightlingseapanthers@gmail.com

15

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Mr Harkin, Sir, I am led to believe that councillors are elected by members of the parish to look after the interests of all members of the parish and the village in general and to do their best to maintain and preserve or where possible improve or enhance the infrastructure and ambiance of the village in which we live and defend it and parishioners from anything which may detract from that. Could therefore councillor Wright or chairman Hills please explain how any development of more than two or three houses (for example Simmonds ex coal yard which was a brown field site) will, if allowed to go ahead, benefit in any way at all, any of the residents or the village in general. For example, 1. Will an extra 450 residents improve the overloading at the doctors? 2. Will an extra 150 more cars improve the regular congestion in the village and the horrendous Heckford

road/A133 junction when they go to access the A12 etc.to go to work or shop? 3. Will an extra 100 children help the local school with only a handful of available places? 4. Given that very few children walk to school these days will it help with the congestion in the village

centre especially at school and commuter times. (there is NO footpath from the proposed development to the village and we are regularly told that no hard surfacing can be allowed on the green), and I for one would not like to walk around village corner Heckford Road at any time of day!

5. Will the proposed 75 houses on the pumping station proposed development be available and affordable to the local community or perhaps their children?

6. Will the undoubted light pollution benefit the village in any way? 7. Will in any way the village be improved or enhanced by this proposed development, if so in what way?

I would suggest that the answer to all of the points above and many others not detailed here is a resounding NO. In fact I would suggest the only resident of Great Bentley who would gain anything if this development goes ahead will be the landowner, Councillor George Wright who would have a few less acres to farm and a substantial increase in his bank balance. Given the above, I think being on the council supposedly defending our village, and being the proposer of a housing development which as far as I, and I`m sure many other residents would agree, does nothing to enhance or improve this village is totally incompatible, bordering on hypocrisy. Withdrawing from planning meetings is not sufficient. He should therefore resign from the council forthwith. Yours J.Merison

The above letter was sent to the council on 24th

of July to be considered by councillors and replied to. This proposal has been rejected by the council, I would suggest because of the massive pressure brought upon the council by “Protect Great Bentley” and the villagers, NOT by the council INDEPENDENTLY doing what they were elected for, that is LOOKING AFTER THE VILLAGE AND ITS RESIDENTS . John Merison

STATION FIELD PLANNING APPLICATION 14/01750/OUT

MEETING WITH THE DEVELOPER

The Parish Council has scheduled a meeting at 7pm on Thursday 10th September at the

Village Hall with Edward Gittins and Associates to discuss the developers progress with the outline planning application for the location named Station Field east of Plough Road,

Great Bentley.

This is an informal meeting that will form part of the developers consultation process. The

Council has agreed to allow members of the public to attend with a ‘listening only’ brief. This

is not a public meeting

16

BENTLEY GREEN PLAYERS

Listed below are a couple of events that are coming up: Read through and auditions for our January Production of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ the Musical Production dates will be 28

th/29

th/30

th January

2016. The read through will be taking place on Monday September 14

th at 7.30pm in the Vestry behind St.

Mary’s Church in Great Bentley and auditions will be on Monday 21st September, same time, same place but with our Musical Director there as well. There are lots of parts for all ages, young to not so young, so please come along and have a go Fund Raiser Evening – ‘Back to the 40’s’ Saturday 3

rd October in Great Bentley Village Hall

7.30pm The evening will consist of a 40 minute play about a family stuck together in a bunker overnight followed by a fish and chip supper (vegetarian/other option) and then songs and music from this era and the 50’s by the local group The Harmonettes. We are also hoping to have a 40’s dance display from a local group. Tickets will be available from Deli-licious in the village from September onwards but for more information about this evening please give me a ring or drop me a line. Put it on your calendars and come along and have a lovely evening. Bev Adams Tel: 01206 250 724 bev.k.adams@btinternet.com Secretary

CABARET EVENING

In aid of St Helena Hospice

Saturday 26th September

Great Bentley Village Hall 7.30pm

THE TAKE THAT EXPERIENCE

Tickets only £20

Plus Disco: Steve Williams:

Dancing: Licenced Bar: Breads & Nibbles: Raffle

Ring 07792 310011

PLEASE CAN YOU HELP?

I had a visit today from a couple on holiday in the area. The gentleman’s name was Michael Tidy and he was looking for his cousin Geoffrey Earle who he believes has moved to Great Bentley. If you can help please contact Mary Maskell, 01206 250524. Thank you

TREK CUBA FOR ST HELENA HOSPICE

Fundraising is still underway. I had a stall at the Thorrington Fete recently and raised a further £60. My son Joshua who is 10, decided that he would like to raise money for the Hospice, so he made some jewellery from loom bands and sorted a selection of books. He then walked around the fete selling these items and raised over £31, a testament to his determination and also the generosity of people who like to support a good cause. He will be sending this to the Hospice separately. Fitness training has not been so good as I have injured my knee and am currently undergoing physiotherapy. My next fundraising event is on 26th September in the village hall and promises to be a great evening. Due to difficulties with caterers we have decided to concentrate on an excellent evening’s entertainment. The star attraction is The Take That Experience, this band is great fun and extremely entertaining to watch. There will also be dancing and a supper of breads, cheeses and nibbles, all for only £20. Please contact me on 07792310011 for tickets There will also be a licensed bar and raffle, a disco and Steve Williams will be performing. Thank you. Mandy Fowler

17

Peter’s

Potterings

Welcome to September, as we wonder what the weather will be like this month. Mostly the summer was dry this year with only an occasional burst of rain. Unfortunately for the gardener the amount of rain we had did not really help the growing plants, especially up the allotment where if you want to water any of the plants you have to cart a bucket full from a nearby water tub, (much easier at home with a hosepipe). My autumn fruiting raspberries are still producing fruit. They started producing during August, especially after a burst of rain, and are carrying on during September. These are the only raspberries I grow up the allotment as the climate seems better for them the latter part of the season. I do appreciate why the best raspberries are reported as coming from Scotland when the weather forecast frequently shows rain coming up the west coast and finishing up giving a good soaking for Scotland. I cropped all my onions and shallots in August this year as the spell of dry weather caused them to stop growing and to brown off. I lifted them and took them home to dry off a bit more on some wire mesh stands. My favourite method of storing onions over the winter is to hang them up in the shed on a length of string similar to those traditionally strung up in France. Despite having a poor season regarding rain, I was pleasantly surprised with the size of the onions this year. Finally on the vegetable front I have had a good crop of mini tomatoes grown in the greenhouse this year. These were my favourite “Tumbling Tom Red” which are suitable for growing in pots or hanging baskets, both inside and outside. I put them in a 9” pot and arrange strips of self watering material in the bottom of the pot and cut a small hole to allow some of the material to hang through. The pot is then stood in a large watering tray where water is added, generally on a daily basis, and I keep about a quarter of an inch deep. Once a week I add tomato food to the water and the plants grow well and produce lots of small round tomatoes. This variety will grow well both in the greenhouse or outdoors. It grows a bit larger in the greenhouse but both inside or out it produces nice mini red tomatoes. Those of you more interested in flowers will no doubt have been very pleased with the way they have grown this year. I have geraniums planted in a very sunny border that have not been watered by me most of the summer and they are still looking very good. Geraniums thrive in hot and semi dry conditions but normally they don’t like this particular spot. I suspect that the wet weather in June allowed them to establish a good rooting system and this has kept them going all summer. Don’t forget that if you have geraniums in a basket or tub that you water constantly and the leaves are very lush and green

but you have few flowers, then let the basket dry out. This will tell the plant it is time to do its job, which is to produce seed, and it will soon produce lots of flower buds, which in turn will set seed. I have several Agapanthus plants both in the ground and in large pots. This year virtually everyone has produced a magnificent flower head (or two). I have spoken to several other gardeners and this year they seem to have had similar results. This may be the result of the warmer temperatures down here in the East as these plants originally come from hotter climates (hence their other name - African lilies). The bulb catalogues are now arriving in the post so it is time to decide what bulbs you want to order. The choice seems to be endless with new colours and varieties for both daffodils and tulips. Whilst the main plantings will be done during October and November it is important to get your supply of bulbs for forcing ready to get flowers for Christmas. More about this next month. PETER ALLINGTON

SESAW NEWS Grey clouds gathered above and the rain came down, yet over three hundred friends and supporters rolled up for the SESAW Open Day at the end of July. A big thank you to everyone who helped raise over £3,300 at the Dog Show, Fete, BBQ and Refreshments marquee. Even Jazz Galore braved the weather to entertain us!

Open Day aside, my canine pals and I have enjoyed the lovely summer, unlike a three year old Lakeland-X that has been with us since May. Buster is a tiny bit stupid, he kennel guards and seems very fierce in there, but he is not like that at all. Everyone passes by, thinking he would kill his neighbour but once out, they happily go for a walk together. He's getting quite depressed, watching all the others come in and go before him. He would be good, probably as the only pet and with older children 'cause he wants all the fuss. Come and see Buster but ask to see him out of the kennel and give him a chance. I’ll be in trouble with Ollie (the Black) Cat if I don’t also mention the many cats longing for new people to own - that’s what he said! Hopefully they will leave us sooner than a family of ferals, homed last month after waiting at Sesaw for nearly four years.

Thank you to everyone who helped to raise £430 at Barbara's Stoke by Nayland table sale. It was good to see so many local people supporting us. If you are visiting Hadleigh for the Year of the Sheep Grand Finale on Saturday 26th September, please pop into our £1 Sale for bargains and refreshments. It will be open 11-2pm at the Ansell Centre next to the United Reform Church, Market Place, IP7 5DL. Next month I'll tell you about our big sale at Great Bentley Village Hall in October. It’s nearly time for Mum’s evening rounds but I’m guarding the computer until someone emails this article for me. Ollie’s hinting at writing another “no holds barred” report but this month’s news is definitely from me, Kenny (the Boss) Chihuahua! Suffolk & Essex Small Animal Welfare, Stoke Road, Leavenheath, CO6 4PP. Tel: 01787 210888. www.sesaw.co.uk

18

SURGERY NOTES Apart from one really wet week the summer was pretty good this year. Hayfever symptoms have cleared, the nights are drawing in and our children and young people are going back to school/ college or university. Talking of young people, if your birth date is between 1st September 1996 and 31st August 1997, you will be offered a new vaccine to protect against Meningitis ACWY. This vaccine will protect against four different causes of meningitis as well as septicaemia. If you are going to university it’s recommended that you have this vaccine two weeks before you start, so call us now! Younger teenagers will be offered this vaccination in their routine school programme. We are now also heading into our annual flu vaccination season. If you think you are eligible for a free NHS seasonal flu vaccination, please call us now to check and make your appointment in one of our special clinics arranged at the end of this month or early in October. Finally the Patient Participation Group is meeting on Thursday 17th September at 6.30pm in the Great Bentley Village Hall. We hope to be able to discuss some subjects submitted via our new “Virtual PPG” for the first time. If you would like to be part of this new group who are unable to attend regular meetings, just send an email to Melvyn Cox (PPG Chairman) using melvyncox141@yahoo.co.uk. Richard P Miller – Practice Manager

__________________________________________________________________ SUGAR - Most of us eat too much sugar. It can be hidden in foods without us realising it. Try to cut down by

eating fewer sugary foods such as cakes, biscuits and fizzy drinks. Many processed foods and, surprisingly, low fat foods can have a high sugar content. Drinking lots of sugary drinks has been linked to an increase risk of type 2 diabetes. Sugary foods and drinks can also cause tooth decay especially if you eat them between meals. The Government recommends that sugars shouldn’t make up more than 5% of the energy (calories) you get from food and drink each day. That is a maximum of 30g which is roughly 7

sugar cubes. Children should have less - 19g for a child 4-6 years - 5 sugar cubes or 24g for a child 7-10 years - 6 sugar cubes. Just ONE can of cola can have as much as 9 cubes of added sugar! TIPS TO CUT DOWN SUGAR

• Instead of fizzy drinks and juice go for water or unsweetened juice. Try diluting fruit juice with sparkling

water.

• Cut down or stop having sugar in tea or coffee

• Swap cakes or biscuits for a currant bun or scone.

• Watch your breakfast cereals many are very high in sugar. Try porridge, Weetabix or Shreddies (Other

brands are available!)

• Ready sauces and soups often have added sugars. Try to make your own - it is really easy and a lot

cheaper. An average sized jar of pasta sauce (roughly 150g) can contain over 13g of sugar which is

the equivalent of 3 teaspoons!

• Get used to reading food labels and comparing products for healthier options. High - over 22g of total

sugars per 100g - Low - 5g of total sugars per 100g

Have a look at the really useful Change4lifesugarswaps app on your Smartphone or visit http://www.nhs.uk/change4lie/Pages/low-sugar-healthy-snacks.aspx

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALEX RAYMENT

Alex Rayment; son of Sharon and Steve and Grandson of Jean and John Hopkins of Cedar Way, Gt. Bentley; played for Northampton Saints on Friday 21st August, in the Singha Premiership Rugby 7’s, which was played at The Ricoh Arena,Coventry. Alex is in his final year at The Royal Hospital School and only started playing rugby 6 years ago; he is now part of Northampton Saints Junior Academy. Alex now goes with “The Saints” Academy to play against Irish opposition. Jean Hopkins

19

Pet’s

Corner

NATURE NOTES

Nature Notes appears in both Thorpe and Great Bentley magazines. By coincidence these two Tendring parishes have significant village greens, with Great Bentley’s 43 acres putting it on a scale nationally of its own. The history of commons, greens and wastes originally linked to feudal open field systems is complicated. Essex unlike the Midlands and elsewhere did not go through the same late 18

th century upheaval of the Enclosure

Movement. But in the past two centuries registration has been required to ensure their protection, generally these days under auspices or even ownership of parish councils. Land hunger is no new phenomenon so it is only by chance or particular watchfulness that they have survived into the modern era. Villagers’ right to graze a cow, goose or donkey, dance round maypoles, hold fairs or play cricket and indulge in other communal activities on them has a nostalgic charm that has not always been borne out by actuality. The role of the Lord of the Manor, an often absent vague relic, lingers into modern times in residual form. Bentley Green’s size and situation in the heart of the village gives it a profile that Thorpe’s smaller Near or First Green and Far or Second Green lack. Beyond amenity they are like the churchyards almost the last remaining permanent grassland in our largely arable farmed parishes. Over 95% of traditional meadows have been ploughed in the past century and most grass now is rotated like other crops - intensely mown or grazed. The place of grassland wildlife is generally peripheral and usually survives more by accident than consideration. Modern mowers too often have their blades set low and mow too frequently on what should not be regarded as mere extensions of garden lawns, except where sports are played or some other event is to be held. Although on Far Green, Thorpe and the Heather Patch at Bentley some concession is granted a more visible and widespread variation or rotation of cutting to form a mosaic of grassland at differing stages would be happier on the eye and good for flowers and insects. For your diary: Sun 13

th Sept 11am - 4pm – Open

Day at Howlands Marsh nature reserve, St Osyth – vehicular access signed for day off Mill Street – organised by Tendring EWT local group

DRB

Do dogs and cats see the world as we see it? The simple answer is no they don’t, but since vision is such a subjective thing it is not easy to say exactly how they see. Cats and dogs both have a greater ability to see in low light situations, ie. they see better in the dark, but they still see very well in normal daylight, hence they are not specifically adapted to nocturnal outings only, as say Badgers are. The minimum level of light for vision is about 6 times lower in a cat than in man. Dogs are very similar, hence if you lose your pet in the dark, they can see you much better than you can see them, so let them find you. They are also very good at detecting motion, hence they are aware of small movements at far greater distances than we are. They also have a greater sensitivity to flickering lights. In people the point at which flickering lights appear to fuse into a sold light is about 60-60 Hz, hence TV at 50Hz appears as a picture (that is if you have a strong signal, good aerial etc). For dogs this happens at 70-80Hz which probably means that TV pictures probably don’t look so clear to them as it does to us, which is possibly a better way to view some of the rubbish we get on TV at the moment!! Another point of difference is the height at which they see things. The world as seen from say 10 inches above the ground for a small dog will look far different to that seen by say the eyes of a taller dog such as a Wolfhound. Perhaps that is why cats often like to find themselves a perch, to get themselves a better view of things. It is not all better for cats and dogs as humans are much better in terms of colour perception. Most people see in three basic colours, except for those who are red/green colour blind who only see in two basic colours which is the same as dogs and cats. This means that they see well in blue and yellow but red appears dark and green and is undistinguishable from white. Thus to cats leaves will appear white not green. I don’t know where all the clever researchers are who write up about all this data but assuming

that cats and dogs perceive colour as wave lengths of light as we do, the guide dogs at the traffic lights will go more on which light is bright and its position rather than its colour, but whether this is the case or not guide dogs do an amazing job.

ALLOTMENTS

Fancy growing your own fruit and veg?

Free exercise.

Plots available at the end of September Contact the Parish Clerk

20

Great Bentley Running Club GBRC

At 7.30pm on Wednesday 22nd

July the sun shone brightly down as a large gathering of seventy club runners both past and present lined themselves up along the start line on Plough Road. The claxon sounded and a sea of Bentley blue took off on the inaugural running of The Geoff Day 5k Memorial Race. Geoff showed a flair for sport from an early age, with a natural ability. By the age of ten, he was already national age group champion at both 50 and 100 metre breaststroke. From a young age, he possessed a high degree of self-discipline towards training. Geoff led Bentley to many team prizes in Essex and Suffolk, he won the Essex 20, and Felixstowe 1/2 marathon, as well as many others races. Joe Alexander was the winner in a time of 16 minutes 34 seconds, almost two minutes ahead of Russ Sharp and Chris Warren. Vicky Presland (20m 40s) was first for the ladies.

Geoff’s father, Alan Day presented Joe with The Geoff Day Trophy. Wimbledon Half Marathon was held this Sunday; four members of GBRC were in attendance. The picturesque route takes you through the stunning grounds of Wimbledon Common, so completely off road. The event is organised by RunThrough and is held four times a year. A time of 2 hours 24 minutes 29 seconds saw Gary Hill cross the line first for the club. Following in his footsteps was Debs Cubberley (2hr 17m 1s), John Bush ( 2hr 37m 52s) and Linzi Iddon ( 2hr 44m 36s). Meanwhile, Meera Rajoo Oakley took part in The Windmill 7.5 mile championship trail race hosted by Grange Farm and Dunmow. Oakley was 22nd overall in 1hr 13m 48s. Helene Tyler took on three laps of the 10 kilometre Adidas TR24 off road relay. Sunday also saw Joe Alexander in action again, this time in Maldon. A time of 1 hr 21m 5s was good enough to see Alexander win this sprint tri distance. Anna Mills was also participating in the three disciplines. Taking on her first Olympic distance at Thorpe Park, a 1500m swim and 39.5km cycle ride precedes the 10km run. Mills completed this in 2hrs 43m 41s. Last week had a bit of an international theme. The docklands of Dublin welcomed four of our ladies, who were taking part in the Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon on Sunday. Sam Godden led Janine Simpson, Sinead Burgoyne and Helene Tyler along the River Liffey. Runners pass the famous Ha’Penny Bridge, Christchurch Cathedral, Guinness Brewery and the Royal Hospital and Kilmainham Gaol, finally finishing in Phoenix Park. Godden was first home in 1hour 38m 27s, followed by Simpson (1hr 58m 3s), Burgoyne (2 hrs 12m 13s) and Tyler (2hrs 21m 46s). The weekend also saw Rodger Alexander, Paul and Lex Carlisle, Andy and Lel Fuller and Darren and Steph Horner give up their time to be part of the official “sweep” team for the Prudential Ride London event. This one hundred mile cycle race forms part of the legacy left over from the 2012 Olympic Games. Approximately 30,000 cyclists started from The Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park at 06.00 on Sunday morning, winding their way through central and western London. Passing through the chocolate box villages of Surrey and climbing the famous Box Hill before making their way back along the embankment to finish along The Mall. Anita Rafferty and Anna Mills flew the flag for Great Bentley, finishing in 9 hrs 21m 23s and 5 hours 53 minutes respectively. Joe Alexander ran the Colchester Parkrun on Saturday morning as part of his current triathlon training. Alexander won the 5k event in 17m 15s. Others from GBRC were David Wright, Ben Ficken, Meera Rajoo-Oakley, Charles Williams, Vicki Parker and Sue Sorrell. Staying with the parkrun theme, Harwich held their very first one on Saturday. Nine members of our club turned out to run. Mike Belton (22m 20s) led Kevin James, Paul Hollidge, Scott Young and Lee Clarkson along the out and back promenade course. Junior, Sam Young finished in 22m 48s. Whilst Chusa Bautista (24m 23s) was first back to the Dovercourt bandstand, ahead of Cherie Hipkins (25m 13s) and Sandra James (32m 54s). Last Tuesday saw the final race of the ever popular Harwich 5k series. Word from our “Bentley Bunch” was that the weather conditions were absolutely perfect for racing. Three members of the club finished in the top ten, Keith Oakley was first, Dave Nugent, second and Clare Groves fifth. Men’s final standings showed, Keith Oakley 4th, Luke Groves 16th and Kevin James 20th. The Women’s overall table had three Bentley Babes also in the top twenty. Rita Page 15th, Claire Groves 16th and Cherie Hipkins 17th. Our website at GBRC.org gives details of our weekly routine and there is something for everyone no matter what their ability.

Paul Carlisle

If running is not your scene but you need some exercise why not become an allotmenteer? Fresh air, fun, comradeship and healthy eating.

Plots are situated behind the village hall. Come and give us a look.

21

St. Osyth WI’s BIG Green Coffee Morning

Saturday 12th

September

St. Osyth Village Hall

10.00 am - 12.00 noon

Cakes, Crafts, Raffle, Bottle Tombola, Books, Bric-a-Brac etc.

All Welcome

Point Clear & St Osyth Horticultural Society

HARVEST SHOW

SATURDAY 5th SEPTEMBER

ST OSYTH VILLAGE HALL

2.00pm - 4.30pm

FLOWERS,VEGETABLES,COOKERY,

HANDICRAFTS & CHILDRENS EXHIBITS

Entry non-members 50p

Members free

HOMEMADE CAKES,

TEA & COFFEE

AUTUMN FAIR

In aid of Seven Rivers Cheshire Home Great Bromley

Tuesday 6th OCTOBER

10.30am - 3.00pm

At Gt Bromley Village Hall Rectory Road, Gt Bromley

CO7 7JR

Stallholders include:

Ho Ho Ho: Glorious Garments: Sports Channel: JoJo Matthews: Phoenix Cards: Leopardi:

Whishlist: PO-CH: Carole Russell: Terra Nova Shoes: Claire Weeks:

Wendy Warren Jewellery: Otta Designs: The Cheese and Pie Man: Serendipity:

Oxbow and Peach: Nicky Yeates:

Admission £3.

WORLD’S BIGGEST COFFEE MORNING

McMILLAN CANCER SUPPORT

Friday 25th September 10.00am to 12 noon

Clacton Lions Club will be sponsoring this event supported by Maureen and Colin Johnson

So please come along to the village

hall for coffee and cakes and at the same time meet friends and have

a chat.

22

ODD MAN OUT!

1. Which of these was not born in Norfolk?

a) Benjamin Britten b) Horatio Nelson c) Elizabeth Fry d) Diana Princess of Wales

2. Which of these is not an Oxford graduate?

a) Stephen Hawking b) Keith Chegwin c) Stephen Fry d) Bill Clinton

3. Which of these has not won female ‘Rear of the Year’ award?

a) Elaine Paige b) Kate Moss c) Barbara Windsor d) Su Pollard

4. Which of these is not a London theatre?

a) Crucible b) Garrick c) Aldwych d) Adelphi

5. Which of these is not a Cambridge college?

a) Downing b) Emmanuel c) Robinson d) Oriel

6. Which of these is not one of the Mister Men?

a) Clever b) Big c) Happy d) Tall

7. Which of these astronauts has not walked on the moon?

a) James Irwin b) Alan Bean c) Alan Shepard d) James Lovell

8. Which of these was not a Rolling Stone?

a) Mick Jagger b) Rod Stewart c) Brian Jones d) Bill Wyman

9. Which of these was not married to Elizabeth Taylor?

a) Eddie Fisher b)Conrad Hilton c) Michael Wilding d) Hugh Hefner

10. Which of these is not one of the Scilly Isles?

a) St Mary's b) St Martin's c) St Aubin d) St Agnes

11. Which of these is not a type of pasta?

a) Radiatori b) Ravioli c) Rigatoni d) Radicchio

12. Which of these is not a Marx Brother's film?

a) Duck Soup b) Animal Crackers c) Four Feathers d) A Night at the Opera

13. Which of these is not one of the Queen's grandchildren?

a) Zara b) Eugenie c) Peter d) Nicholas

14. Which of these is not an Australian state?

a) Eastern Australia b) Western Australia c) South Australia d) Northern Territory

15. Which of these is not a breed of cattle?

a) Hereford b) Limousin c) Charolais d) Romney

16. Which of these flags is not red and white?

a) Poland b) Greece c) Japan d) Croatia

17. Which of these is not a novel by Agatha Christie?

a) Murder Most Foul b) The Murder at the Vicarage c) A Murder is Announced d) Five Little Pigs

18. Which of these is not a potato?

a) Maris drummer b) Maris peer c) Maris bard d) Maris piper

19. Which of these did not live to be 100 years old?

a) The Queen Mother b) Bob Hope c) Winston Churchill d) Irving Berlin

20. Which of these is not a Shakespeare play?

a) Henry V b) King John c) Richard I d) Henry VIII

1.a 2.c 3.b 4.a 5.d 6.b 7.d 8.b 9.d 10.c 11.d 12.c 13.d 14.a 15.d 16.b 17.a 18.a 19.c 20.c

23

Parish Council Election Candidate – Pippa Drew

I am a truly independent candidate with no ties to local business, land owners or political parties. I have lived in Great Bentley for over 8 years and my only interest in this election is in the people of the village and representing them on the Parish Council. I am not a politician. I am a Human Resources Director. It is my job to make sure people have the information to enable things to happen and decisions to be made. It is my job to make sure the views, concerns and considerations of the people I work with are a key part of the decision making process for the organisation I work for. In my view, engaging with the people of this Parish, and ensuring their views are heard is the very reason for having a Parish Council. It shouldn't be a Future Agenda item. I understand that there are many reasons people won't or can't come to the monthly meetings and as I see it, a key part of my role as a Councillor will be to support and encourage the Parish Council's efforts in engaging with the Parish by whatever means necessary. As founder of Protect Great Bentley this is what I have already done. I have gathered, learned and shared vast amounts of information. I have designed and printed flyers. I have gone door to door to raise awareness. I have built a website which people go to for the latest information about the housing developments. I use social media, email, word of mouth and print to keep people informed. I brought together a brilliant, dedicated and passionate team of people to help make these things happen because I recognise that a team and a community working together are far stronger, and make much better decisions, than any one individual. It was this teamwork which enabled the team of Protect Great Bentley to hold a very successful public meeting to help people understand what we are up against, and it is this team's efforts which keep us all learning and growing and focused on what we trying to achieve. I don't do this because I don't have anything better to do. I do it because I believe it is important that the people of the Parish have as much information as possible to enable us to deal with the issues we face. I do it to empower people to get involved if they wish to do so. I aim to bring people along through leadership, involvement and encouragement. I recognise that different people need information in different ways and I am prepared to put the effort and hard work in to make this happen. This is my natural approach to the things which are important to me. I do it every day at work, I do it for Protect Great Bentley and this is what I will bring to the Parish Council if I am elected. I am asking for your support in the election on 3rd September. If elected, I will continue to ask for your support in letting me know what you need my role as Parish Councillor to do for you.

Parish Council Election Candidate - Vicki Brooks

I was lucky enough to move to Great Bentley 4 years ago from Lawford where I had lived for 23 years. Instantly I was impressed with Great Bentley being such a lively, thriving village and showing an excellent community spirit. I am passionate about the community and the rural way of life and I believe I would really enjoy, and positively contribute to the Parish Council of such a traditional village. I am particularly concerned about upholding the ethos of the village and protecting it for future generations to come. My career as an agronomist enables me to speak to a wide range of rural people across East Anglia, as well as the media. I am home based and my job is of a flexible nature allowing me, if it is required as part of my Parish Council duties, to attend meetings inside working hours. My professional capabilities as an agronomist would enable me to provide technical advice on the upkeep of the green and the surrounding areas should it be necessary and requested by other members. My interest and knowledge of the environment and wildlife would allow me to provide guidance and advice enabling ecosystems to survive and be maintained alongside the increasing pressures of modern day life. I feel I could bring a little bit more balanced approach to the Parish Council and I would want to be a flag bearer for the younger generations and young families in the village. Young people tend to be under represented on all Parish Councils and I know that the Chairman has been trying to encourage young people to step up for some time. If I was successful in my application, I feel I would slightly change the dynamic of the existing Parish Council by bringing a youthful outlook. I feel this is very important if we are to encourage the younger generations in the village to participate, and also stay within the village thus enabling it to continue to thrive. I am however, also interested in the community as a whole. I am keen to promote it and encourage it to flourish in its surroundings. I have for some time been thinking about putting myself forward to be a Parish Councillor, but never thought the opportunity would arise for me to be able to do it. If successful I hope to be on the Parish Council for the long term and provide a balanced opinion on a wide range of topics bringing the best to the village and its community.

24

CLUBS &

ORGANISATIONS

BENTLEY GREEN LADIES CLUB Many thanks to Yvonne and Norman who were our hosts for our Members’ BBQ which was held in their beautiful garden on 4th August. It was a dry, if somewhat chilly evening, where we all enjoyed a delicious supper prepared by Billie and her team, so many thanks to all who made the evening possible. Dates for your diary

• Tuesday 1st September - Monthly meeting, 7.30pm, Village Hall. Speaker Mr Dudley Chignall ‘The Canadian Rockies’.

• Saturday 5th September - Remember produce/handicrafts for our stall at Great Bentley Village Show.

• Saturday 10th October P SAVE THE DATE P Quiz Night in the Village Hall. Everyone welcome! See page 7.

ESSEX WILDLIFE TRUST

Sunday 13th September

Open Day 11-4pm

Howlards Marsh Nature Reserve (entrance for day signed off

Mill Street, St Osyth)

Guided walks & refreshments

GREAT BENTLEY GARDENING CLUB

Just a reminder to all members that the AGM is on Tuesday 15th September in the Village Hall at 8.00pm. Please DO come along and enjoy a light-hearted evening and the annual business. “Nibbles” are provided but do bring your own choice of drink. This evening is also our Autumn Show when I hope as many as possible will join in the fun of the evening by entering something. If you need a schedule please contact me. I look forward to the pleasure of your company for what is always a most enjoyable occasion. Bob Newman Chairman - 01206 251433

WHY WE LOVE CHILDREN!

A small boy was sent to bed by his father. Five minutes later G ‘Da-adG’ ‘What?’ ‘I’m thirsty. Can you bring a drink of water?’ ‘No, You had your chance. Lights out.’ Five minutes later: ‘Da-aaaadG’ ‘WHAT?’ ‘I’m THIRSTY. Can I have a drink of water??’ ‘I told you NO! If you ask again, I’ll have to smack you!!’ Five minutes later G.. ‘Daaaa-aaaadG’ ‘WHAT?!?! ‘When you come in to smack me, can you bring a drink of water?’

EVERGREEN FRIENDSHIP CLUB

Ken Drew made a very welcome return to our July meeting and put us in a reminiscent and light-hearted mood as we joined him in singing many of our favourite songs. On July 29th 16 members enjoyed a Strawberry Tea prepared by Angie at Westwood House (indoors due to the weather) and concluded the afternoon with a True/False Quiz which caused both amusement and some unexpected answers. On Wednesday August 12th, although not a typical summer's day, 12 members and friends enjoyed a trip to Dunwich for lunch and afterwards a visit to Southwold stopping on the way at the Emmerdale Farm shop where many tempting items were on sale. Our meeting on September 23rd will take the form of a Harvest Festival Celebration with our gifts being donated to the Salvation Army. We will complete the afternoon with a talk by Paula Short about "Canada from East to West". If you are free on that afternoon from 2pm until 4pm with no commitments, why not join us in the Village Hall where a warm welcome will be waiting for you? Joye

MISSING

Ginger cat called Charlie

Last seen Saturday 8th August Weeley Road, Great Bentley

He is micro chipped, he has ginger and white rings on his tail and will throw himself on the floor

to have his tummy rubbed!!

Please contact 250106 or 07748 802690

25

A PICTURE TO COLOUR

This month at St Mary’s Church we celebrate the Flower and Art Festival on the 19th and 20th

September. Here you can do your own piece of art work and colour in the sun flower picture

26

A FEW NOTES FROM YOUR DISTRICT COUNCILLOR LOCAL PLAN The consultation for the Local Plan should now be underway; you should have all received notification and information, regarding the consultation, with your electoral role registration forms that were delivered to every household in the district during August. TDC is grateful to the Village Show Committee for allowing Local Plan Consultation Material to be made available for you on Village Show Day next to the marquee. Residents are also encouraged to attend the Local Plan Committee meetings. The next scheduled meeting is due to take place on Thursday 17

th September starting at 6.00 pm in The Town Hall, Station Road,

Clacton on Sea. ELECTORAL ROLE REGISTRATION FORMS These forms as previously mentioned should have now been delivered; please check the form to make sure the information on it is correct and respond following the instructions given to either correct an error or confirm the information is correct. If you do have any questions you can contact the Electoral Services on 01255 686566 TENDRING SAFER PARKING AWARDS Tendring District Council has achieved nine Safer Parking Awards due to no crime having been committed in the car parks during the last 12 months due to the safety measures that are in place. The nine sites are; - Jaywick Beach, High Street Clacton, Agate Road Clacton, Old Road Clacton, Elm Grove Clacton, Ipswich Road Holland, High Street Walton, Tower Street Brightlingsea and Wellington Road Harwich. CLACTON PIER IS NOW A NO SMOKING SITE As the Cabinet Member for Wellbeing and Partnerships with Health and Wellbeing being part of the portfolio, I am very pleased that the owners of the Pier have taken the initiative to keep the pier free of smoking on its site. The new rules came in at the beginning of August; Billy Ball a co-owner of the pier believes this to be one of the first piers in the UK to adopt such a policy. CONGRATULATIONS MR GIBBS I really must applaud and congratulate Doug for his sheer perseverance in wanting a bus shelter at the bus stop opposite Sturricks Lane. His perseverance has at last paid off and the Bus Shelter is in place; it looks really good and will no doubt be well used on those wet and windy days. Thank you Doug. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any concerns; I am always very pleased to help and hear from you.

Many thanks

Cllr. Lynda McWilliams

Tendring District Council Cabinet Member for the Wellbeing and Partnerships Portfolio

Tendring District Councillor to the Ward of Great Bentley

Email address: lynda@boblyn.co.uk Telephone Number: 01206 250732

War Memorial Questions were asked of the Parish Council as to why the wreaths have been left on the Memorial for so long. This year, as we all know, is the 70th Anniversary of the end of the Second World War and the wreaths have been left until August to commemorate VJ Day. This year’s tributes have included a wreath laid specifically for those from this village who gave their lives during this war supplied by the Parish Council. It seemed appropriate to leave until August. As I wrote in the Parish News last year there is no set date to remove wreaths from memorials although traditionally ours have been removed early the following year. The Memorial is now without past poppy tributes. Whilst on the subject of the MemorialG..the Poppy Appeal is not too far away and as usual the village including Thorrington is short of collectors. If you can spare a few hours helping with collections please let me know on Tel: 250 799. The service this year is at St. Mary’s Church followed by a procession to the Memorial and a service there at 11 am.

Mick Dorling

27

Great Bentley Pre-school

www.greatbentleypreschool.co.uk

information@greatbentleypreschool.co.uk

Village Hall, Salmons Lane, Thorrington. Telephone: 07592-344367. Email: infor@ladybirdsthorrington.co.uk Dear all, We hope that you have all had an enjoyable summer break. We are looking forward to returning to Ladybirds Pre-School on Monday 7

th September and Caterpillars Baby & Toddler Group from Wednesday 9

th September.

We had a busy summer term, which included extra transition visits to local primary schools and visits from reception staff. We also enjoyed our summer trip to Jimmy’s Farm, although we were on tender hooks with regard to the threat of wet weather! It all worked out perfectly and the sun shone down for us! We once again held an action packed sports day on Thorrington playing field. The children participated fantastically, providing an afternoon of fun enjoyed by many families and friends who joined us. It was lovely to see so many there making the most of the activities and venue. We once again took part in the Tendring Hundred Farmers Club Show at Lawford with a display in the Education tent. We also entered the competitions, winning 2

nd

place for animal collages and highly commended for our strings of bunting. The special 100th show was

extremely hot, but we were proud to showcase Ladybirds with children’s photographs and artwork on display. Onto Thorrington Village Day in August, where we again had a small stand, as well as children’s craft and activities for all to come and enjoy. The races were well supported and those that managed to run in the heat had a lovely time. Many thanks to Kate Miller for again supplying lovely rosettes for all the children and prizes for race winners. A Minion finished the presentation of prizes perfectly. Very well done and thank you to all TVD committee for such a fantastic village event. Finally, we wish all the September school starters the very best of luck as they embark on the next exciting chapter in their Early Years education. Also, we would like welcome all the new children and their families and friends as they join us this year. We hope you enjoy your time with us and we very much look forward to working with you and watching your children play, learn, develop and grow. Many thanks to all for your continued support. With very best wishes from all at Ladybirds, Kathryn Long.

Although we have a few days of the summer holidays left the new academic year is not far away, I hope you have all had a wonderful time so far and enjoyed the good weather and time spent together. I would like to welcome Isla, Caitlin, Oliver, Pippa, Jack, Mac, Riley and Reggie who begin with us this month. I hope you enjoy your time at our Pre-school and I can promise you will gain lots of wonderful and exciting new experiences. I would like to welcome you all as families as you start this new journey with your child and we look forward to working with you all over the coming terms. That brings me on to wish our recent group of children that left ‘Good Luck’ as they start their new Primary Schools. Theme We start this term with ‘Countries’ as our theme. This will include activities within all areas of the curriculum and can also be extended into our snack time too. We will be finding out about one country a week with the first one being our home country England. This will give all children an opportunity to talk about the places they visited during the summer holidays. Best Practice Rooms At the end of last term Allison, Carrie and I had the opportunity to attend a training course in providing an enabling environment for 2 year olds within our setting. We had the opportunity to be given a guided tour of the rooms including the outside area. We were able to immerse ourselves in the different environments and had time to explore and discuss what reflects good care and education and reflect on how to develop our own provision. We are very excited with the new ideas we have come back with and we have been busy in the holidays seeking out new resources, equipment and activities. Not much else to report this month so I will look forward to welcoming all our children, new and present on Monday 7

th September and hearing all about their summer holidays.

Thanks for reading Julie Wiles

28

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY FOR 2015

October 10th Quiz Night, Village Hall 24th Colchester Military Wives & Braintree Male Voice Choirs sing for Cancer, St Botolph’s Church

November

27th St Mary’s Church ‘A Touch of Sparkle’ A Flower Arranging Demonstration by Brenda Eyers.

28th Christmas Light Switch on.

December

5th/6thSt Mary’s Church Christmas Tree Festival

The Great Bentley Show

1.30pm Saturday 5th September

Another great traditional event for all ages to enjoy on our 43 acre village green.

It’s not long now until show day, but there’s still time to enter our competitions. The schedules are still available from

Deli-licious, Carpenters Farm, Great Bentley Garage, The Warren, Sturrick Lane and

‘Fairfield’, The Path, Great Bentley CO7 8PN

Exhibitors are reminded to complete their entry form and return it to ‘The Warren’, Sturrick Lane, Great Bentley, CO7 8PS

before 8.00pm on Wednesday 2nd September, or complete it online, on our website.

Outside we have the Companion Dog Show - a tractor display - static race saloon car try the popular hog roast - scout & guide catering tent -

many quality stalls - donkey rides - free parking

Why not visit our website at

www.greatbentleyshow.co.uk/index.html

PHOTOGRAPHERS PLEASE NOTE

All photos to be minimum 7x5 inches, max A4 size (not including mount)

All entries to be surface mounted on card with maximum border of 1 inch

GREAT BENTLEY GOOD NEIGHBOURS

YOUR HELP IS NEEDED P..

We need help with regard to our medical aid service to the village. Wheelchairs, commodes etc. 1) First of all we need a reserve or assistant

organiser. Although demand for services is dropping these days due to an improved service from the Health and Social Services, there is still a need. We need someone else to take over when our present organiser cannot manage it. This means taking calls and then meeting people at the location where we store the equipment, booking it out and completing the register.

2) Secondly we need to find a new store for the equipment since the present location will no longer be available to us. Perhaps an empty garage or some lock-up accommodation.

If you can help us in either of these ways please contact me on 01206 250087. Robert Taylor

29

Protect Great Bentley Property Development News Update

TDC Local Plan On 15

th July, members of Protect Great Bentley attended and spoke at the Local Plan Committee Meeting at

Clacton Town Hall. It was an interesting evening, and what has become clear is that the Local Plan Committee are keen to move the plan forward and begin consultation on some key issues, including where to put the bulk of the development required in the form of a whole new village or single major expansion. There will be formal consultation about this soon. As soon as we know how and where to get involved, we will share this information, and would urge as many people as possible to join in as this will be a major decision for the District. Unfortunately for us and other villages in a similar situation, it seems likely the new Local Plan will not be in force until 2017. This means it will provide little if any protection from the current developments being proposed and re-confirms that we will need to continue to fight each one individually. Protect Great Bentley will continue to raise awareness of our situation with TDC and other areas of Government wherever possible to try and get support and recognition of the issues we face.

TDC Planning Committee Meeting Protect Great Bentley members went to the TDC Planning Committee meeting on 28th July to get a full understanding of the process and decision making which goes on. Three applications were heard - one was approved, one was defer red and one was re fused. As an organisation, we are actively monitoring these decisions, both at local and national level to see what the discussion points are and whether there is anything we can use in our fights.

Review of Comments Placed on the TDC Planning Website We were concerned from the start that the level of support for the Admiral’s Farm application showing on the TDC website did not represent what was actually being expressed by villagers and was significantly different to the Plough Road application, and in fact, any other application in the District. In order to understand this variation, Protect Great Bentley asked TDC for the names and addresses of the commenters under the Freedom of Information Act. We have now analysed and mapped the addresses and the result is shown below. It is clear that the Parish, on the whole, strongly objects to the application, and that for reasons we can only guess, many people outside of the Parish feel compelled to support the application!

As at 18/07/15

Support

Object

Admirals

Farm

Support

Object

Within Parish 31 116

Outside Parish 79 3

110 119

Plough Road

Support

Object

Within Parish 0 34

Outside Parish 1 0

1 34

30

Admirals Farm Pedestrian Access Following on from concerns raised by Protect Great Bentley with Essex County Council Highways, they have visited the Admirals Farm site and determined that the pedestrian access put forward by the developer is in fact unacceptable, and for this development to progress further alternative pedestrian access will need to be provided.

Weeley Road / Pine Close Presentation We do not yet have a confirmed date for the presentation from Gladman Developments regarding the Weeley Road / Pine Close site. Once we do, we will let you know. It is encouraging to see in the press that the Planning Inspectorate recently refused a Gladman development in the Maldon area. Parish Council Meeting 6th August Protect Great Bentley posed some specific questions which we feel are important. The full questions are on our website, but the summaries are as follows: The Parish Council meeting was very well attended on 6th August. Protect Great Bentley raised the following questions for the Parish Council to respond to:

1) How does the Parish Council view Cllr Wright's behaviour at the Protect Great Bentley public meeting on 29th June? 2) In his Annual Speech in June, the Chairman of the Parish Council described the current housing development problem as a 'Serious Local Crisis' and 'the Parish Council's biggest challenge of this year'. Does the Parish Council consider they are engaging effectively with the Parish to try and address this problem? We highlighted that nearly 600 Parishioners signed the Protect Great Bentley petition. 3) Given the 'serious local crisis' caused by the current lack of local plan and its impact on future applications, it is obviously a major concern for the Parish. Has the Chairman provided an update for the Parish on this, as he was in attendance at the TDC Local Plan meeting on 15th July? 4) The Chairman also mentioned in his annual speech that we have not yet seen any money from the S106 payment for the Sturricks Lane development - £81,667. As we know, this money does not become available until the building is completed, and is held by TDC until the Parish is ready to apply for it. In this case the funding is dedicated to open spaces (presumably sports equipment, play areas etc). How does the Parish Council plan to consult with the Parish regarding how and when this funding should be used, once it becomes available?

We will update you with the responses when we receive them. Other updates from the meeting are:

• There was much better dialogue and engagement with the people attending than there has been in previous meetings, which is great to see, although it is disappointing that 'Public Engagement' has been put as a future agenda item for 2 months' time.

• The election timetable was confirmed and there are two nominations • The affordable housing survey will be progressed in conjunction with TDC. It was mentioned this

should also include sheltered / retirement housing. • The letter relating to Plough Road was considered and it was agreed that the Parish Council would

meet with the developer on an informal basis. The public will be able to attend this meeting on the same basis as other meetings with developers.

• The Parish Council agreed to join with other parish councils and support the proposal put forward by Alresford Parish Council to write to TDC objecting to how the absence of an adopted Local Plan has exposed the District to poor planning decisions that will adversely impact on local communities.

So what can you do?

• Vote at the Parish Council election on 3rd September • Keep informed. Register on our website to receive news updates. • Get involved. We are an inclusive group. We need and would welcome new members. • Write structured objection letters for all planning applications. See our website for examples. • Attend your Parish Council Meetings

www.protectgreatbentley.com email: protectgreatbentley@outlook.com

31

ALLY PALLY (Alexandra Palace)

Card, Craft and Scrapbooking Fair

Saturday 19th September Clacton Coastal Academy are organising a coach trip on the above date. The coach will leave Clacton at 8.30am and arrive back at 6pm. Cost £15.00 excluding entrance. To secure your booking contact Lee on 01255 420707. It is hoped that a pick-up point will be offered at Frating.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR, If the lady who drove her blue car down Morella Close on Sunday 26

th July just after 3pm is a

recipient of this magazine then this is for you. We presume your purpose was just to turn your car around however in doing so you carelessly crashed into one of our terracotta planters smashing it to smithereens and all but destroying the little tree it contained. Despite our neighbour trying to attract your attention having heard the loud bang that occurred, you chose to put your foot on the accelerator and speed off straight onto Plough Road! All you had to do was ring our door bell and apologise and the matter could have been dealt with amicably which we imagine would have made you feel a lot better rather than carry the guilt of what you did. We have given the details of the incident to our Police Community Support Officer. We should like to make it clear that Morella Close is a cul-de-sac and a private road, the upkeep of which is paid for by the residents and not a facility for turning cars. Thank you. Judy & Alan Bishop Although it’s an odd shape, with one end unfortunately open to the elements, we finally have a bus shelter at the end of Sturrick Lane. I would like to say thank you to Douglas Gibbs for his perseverance in achieving this for our village. Unfortunately it has taken so long to achieve this, that Douglas is no longer fit enough to use it. Thank you Douglas on behalf of the bus users that will benefit from the shelter. Ann Green

MS-UK WELLNESS CENTRE,

JOSEPHS COURT RIDE 250

On the 3rd OCTOBER

Hello, my name is Yvonne Gibson; you may remember me from last year’s Ride 100, when you helped me to raise an amazing £800. This year I am asking for your support to help me raise even more money for the MS-UK WELLNESS CENTRE. I go to the wellness centre twice a week, and have been doing so for over 2 years now. For anyone who has MS, or knows someone with this condition, I strongly recommend you visit the centre. With the aid of physiotherapy and by regularly exercising at the centre, my condition has improved significantly. My aim is to improve my endurance and to rely less on my walker and mobility scooter. I know this won’t happen overnight, but with determination and a positive attitude, I know it will happen. This year we are hoping to raise £10,000, which will enable us to buy a THERA bike £7500 and a massage chair £2500. This will mean more people can use the gym at any one time. We have 4 THERA bikes (2 on loan) and 30 riders. I am setting myself a huge target of 10miles and I hope to raise £1000; that’s £100 per mile. So you can see why I need your support; I would really appreciate it if you would sponsor me. Myself, and some of the other members of the centre, will be attending the village show this year; we look forward to seeing you there and will be happy to answer any of your questions. Thank you for taking the time to read this, Kind regards Yvonne Gibson Josephs Court is a wellness centre located in Hythe Quay, Colchester, CO2 8JF. We provide targeted exercise with specialist equipment to people with Multiple Sclerosis and other neurological conditions, also available at the centre is physiotherapy and remedial massage therapy. We are holding this event to raise awareness of the service and facilities we provide. Josephs Court is a positive environment with a can do approach to disability. We will be completing 250 miles as a team event. Members of the public are welcome to visit and see what we do, and experience the Josephs Court vibe. https://www.justgiving.com/josephscourt/ and tag your donation #ride250YvonneGibson

WHY WE LOVE CHILDREN!

A little girl asked her mother, ‘Can I go outside and play with the boys?’ Her mother replied, ‘No, you can’t play with the boys, they’re too rough.’ The little girl thought about it for a few moments and asked, ‘If I can find a smooth one, can I play with him?’

32

A Very Dangerous Place The Garden

How many flower arrangers, or gardeners, have dangerous or poisonous plants in the garden? I know I have and even in my childhood my father would tell me what I could or could not touch particularly with regard to Anemone hortensis (broad leaved anemone) a favourite plant of his. To-day we know that although very beautiful both in colour and form it is very poisonous even though Gerard in the late 16

th century recommended this for poultices.

The herb Hyoscyamus niger (Henbane) is highly poisonous although it has other uses as detailed in my book of herbs. In the 1

st century Dioscorides (circa 40 – 90A.D.) used it to

alleviate insomnia and pain – he and others pounded it into an oily salve which was rubbed onto the skin. In the 18

th century, doctors probably used this herb the same way as Dioscorides to cause sleep – later it was used for

deep cutting in major surgery. Although this worked, later it was no longer used – probably because it was too dangerous. However, it was still available in 1910 for Dr Hawley Crippen, “not much good as a business man, even less as a husband and far worse as a criminal”, purchased some grains from a shop in New Oxford Street and like an idiot signed his own name in the poison book! The rest is history. Well, if this plant was bad Eranthis hyemalis (aconite) widely grown in our gardens is just as poisonous although we love to see the small yellow flower emerging from the soil in the spring. The above two plants have nothing on Aconitum (Monks Hood) and whatever specie or colour you have in your garden they are extremely poisonous. I have found that they do not like being moved around and I think that is how I lost my original autumn plants which have now been replaced. Aconitum is not a true native of Britain and was found in a 10

th century English list of plants. The Anglo-Saxons called it ‘thung’ but this was

the name for any poisonous plant and was also associated with witches. For all that, in the 19th century

aconitum was very popular with doctors and was used with other ingredients to relieve pain. Today it is used by qualified homeopathic practitioners to alleviate pain of sciatica, gout, arthritis and other human complaints. One plant I cannot grow is Papaver somniferum (the opium poppy) for no other reason than the roots go down so far it is difficult to remove them and when you do succeed, roots left at the previous spot become another plant, and the life-cycle starts all over again. The seed is abundant, delicious, yields oil and contains a small amount of narcotic substances and when eaten fresh gives a pleasant relaxation. Opium has been with us since before Christ, was sold on the street markets of Ancient Rome and by the 8

th century had spread to Arabia, India and China. Queen Elizabeth 1 instructed her merchants to purchase the

finest Indian opium and send it back to England. It has been with us ever since but unfortunately we need it for the morphine it provides which was in short supply only a few years ago. Worldwide many have been glad to have morphine to help with pain. During the centuries (whether B.C. or A.D.) poisonous plants have always been available but at the same time scientists have discovered ingredients which have helped mankind. One of the most poisonous trees is Taxus baccata the common yew which is used for hedging in most country parks, gardens and graveyards. The yew has a sticky juice under the bark and was once used as an arrow poison but since those days, in 1960 American cancer specialists discovered that the bark of Taxus brevifolia (Pacific yew tree) stopped tumour growth in rats. Unfortunately, this tree is very slow growing and could not provide sufficient taxol but thankfully it was discovered that Taxus baccata had an ingredient which could be turned into taxol. As Taxus baccata is grown worldwide and needs clipping several times during the season, gardeners are now sending clippings to companies who can extract taxol for the benefit of all mankind with cancer. It is written that you should never sleep under a yew tree as the bark juice is known to drip and you will definitely not wake up! Digitalis purpurea (Foxglove) and Digitalis lanata are enjoyed by all whether in the garden or the hedgerows, both are used medicinally and have one thing in common – each plant contains digitalin. Although all parts of this plant are extremely poisonous, it is now cultivated commercially as there is no synthetic substance to replace digitalin, which is used to stimulate the heart. Heracleum mantegazzianum (giant hogweed) a wonderful sight when seen from afar. The stems are often used in flower arranging as they are strong and can stand weight (with a rod inside) and during the eighties and nineties became quite a fashionable plant. The only snag is that the stems contains furanocoumarins which is a toxic chemical when brushed against the skin, and in turn when the skin comes into contact with sunlight, burns and blisters will appear and will last for months. Unfortunately this complaint never goes away whilst skin is subjected to sunlight so sun-bathing is definitely out! Protective clothing must be used at all times e.g. face, arms, legs, hands etc. when dealing with this plant. However, in going through my archives I discovered for some unknown reason through the centuries there have been more women poisoners then men, mostly through food. I wonder why – just a thought but it is considered to be the method that women prefer!! Sylvia Steed Bibliography: ‘A Book of Herbs’ by Dawn Macleod: ‘Dangerous Garden’ by David Stuart ‘Manual of Old-Fashioned Flowers’ by Lys de Bray

33

The Great Earthquake – still rumbling

It was a real delight when I returned from shopping last week to find on my doormat a very kind gift from a member of the History Society, Janise Turner. It is a small but well produced book published in 1974 and entitled simply “Earthquake in Essex 1884”. It consists of a collection of some 30 or so old sepia photographs of the damage caused by that tremor. It is clear from these that the event was no minor occurrence. The scenes of, in some cases, massive damage provide a vivid portrait of what must have shocked people horrendously. Homes, hostelries, churches, gas works – all suffered alike the quake’s powerful effect. The pictures are accompanied by short commentaries referring to each of the many villages and towns throughout Essex and even up into Hertfordshire where the tremors were felt. From Barking in the west to Bishop’s Stortford in the north and Leigh-on-Sea in the east we get local descriptions of the event. Most relevant to us was the following vivid eye-witness inclusion (I presume that the Mr Sizer referred to was from the mill owning family at the time):-

GREAT BENTLEY

Mr G.J.Sizer writes:- A severe shock of earthquake was experienced here at 9.20 this morning, such as has not been known before in these parts. It was preceded by a sound of rumbling underground, then a swaying to and fro of the water and things on the surface of the ground. To those in the houses it manifested itself first by a rattling and even banging of the doors, then a sound as if a railway train had run against the house. It must have lasted about 20 seconds. The windmill was violently shaken, the miller rushing out in alarm. Groups of women, having been startled in their homes, soon gathered outside to reassure each other that no real harm had been done. It will be an event not soon forgotten.” My only comment is on the irony of the last sentence, given how swiftly it seems to have been lost in memory; but it also suggests our villagers responded to the event with equanimity. One final piece of local oral archive was given me recently by Betty Harvey who tells me that, years ago, a neighbour of hers who was by then 80, told her of her mother’s experience of the quake. She had been doing some needlework and, holding pins between her teeth as people did, was distressed at almost swallowing them when the shock took place. This is, of course, a marvellous example of exactly those little memories that remain in people’s minds after such happenings. If anyone has any more such tales please let me know. Reg Allington

W.E.A. GREAT BENTLEY BRANCH

Our Autumn course this year is entitled “CHURCH ARCHITECTURE”. The tutor is COLIN CANFIELD. We meet in the Village Hall on Monday evenings at 7.30pm for ten one and a half hour sessions starting Monday 14th September. We pause for tea or coffee and a biscuit half way through. This course aims to turn its members into architectural historians through a chronological and thematic examination of the development of English ecclesiastical architecture from the Saxons to the Victorians. New and former members are very welcome and the first session is free. The fee for the course is £48. If you would like more information please ring David Gol l i fer on 01206 250309 or email dgollifer@hotmail.com.

34

GREAT BENTLEY CRICKET CLUB

Great Bentley are preparing to play in the North Essex League Cup final at Halstead’s Star Stile ground on September 6. Joe Fowler’s men beat Great Horkesley & Lexden in a rain-affected quarter-final match at the end of July, then saw off Earls Colne in the semi-final to set up a meeting with Division One rivals Wivenhoe next month. The two finalists were due to meet in a dress rehearsal in the league on August 16, but disappointingly Bentley were forced to concede due to a lack of availability. Bentley had been forced to concede their Division One match at Mistley due to unavailability as well, but had raced to 66-4 in nine overs when their original cup tie with Great Horkesley & Lexden was abandoned due to bad weather. Joe Fowler hit two sixes and five fours in his 39, before the two teams then agreed to play a five-over match and Bentley piled up 82-1. Fowler added another 23, with Australian Brad Turner smacking six sixes and a four in his whirlwind 55. The visitors were never in the hunt and Turner completed two stumpings off the bowling of Reuben Hunter and Matt Fowler, with Ian Morton also picking up a wicket as Great Horkesley & Lexden were held to just 26-3 in reply. Earls Colne were the visitors to The Green a week later and Bentley made 184-7, thanks largely to an unbeaten 86 from Matt Fowler. Imran Sheikh (36) was the next highest scorer, although Joe Fowler, Rod Fowler, Rob Sanderson and Len Claydon all reached double figures. Captain Joe Fowler made early inroads with the ball in the Earls Colne reply and finished with 5-12 from his eight overs. Hunter and Sheikh picked up a wicket apiece, both with lbw decisions, before Matt Fowler ended some lower order resistance to pick up 3-18 and dismiss the visitors for 143 in the 36

th over.

Bentley returned to league action a week later and, despite only having 10 men, recorded a memorable win at High Easter’s aptly named Pleasure Ground. The home side piled up 311-7, with Haris Mahmood (105) hitting a century and Waqas Mahmood (60) and Matt Davis (51 not out) also in the runs. Wickets were shared between Joe Fowler (2-52), Sheikh (2-90), Ian Johnson, Matt Fowler and Rupert Haxell, but it looked a big ask for Bentley. The visitors had batting heroes of their own, though, as openers Michael Giles (67) and Joe Fowler (47) created a solid platform and Sheikh hit 101. Matt Fowler then held firm, after Pete Bodily and Haxell chipped in with some runs, to finish unbeaten on 38 and secure victory off the very last ball of the match with Bart Wilkinson. *Great Bentley holds colts cricket on Friday evenings for youngsters under the age of 11. The sessions start at 6.15pm and are open to any children who are interested in playing. The under-11 team are hoping to play some friendlies before the end of the season. *Essex hosts the ICC World Cricket League Division Six this month. The eight Associate Member nations taking part get the chance to showcase their talent at the likes of Frinton, Halstead and Colchester. And teams from Botswana, Fiji, Suriname, Saudi Arabia, Guernsey, Cayman Islands, Norway and Vanuatu will all bid to make the final at the County Ground on Sunday, September 13. Essex Eagles captain Ryan Ten Doeschate said: “For these players this is a little like their World Cup. “Cricket is very different in England. I think the gap between here and Botswana and Fiji will be massive and hopefully it will inspire them to get better at the game.” A member of the Dutch squad for the 2007 World Cup, Ten Doeschate also discussed the possibility of Associate Members making the jump into Test cricket. He added: “I don’t think it’s far off. Given the chance, the bottom tier of Test cricket against the top tier of associate cricket, I think you’d find some pretty good matches. “If you look at a team like Afghanistan, who five years ago no one had heard about, they’ve since played in two World Cups. “The standard’s pretty different, but it’s a fast track up that pyramid. For individuals, if you do well it is a good arena to be noticed in.” The matches are part of the qualifying campaign for the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup in England and Wales. September 7: Surinam v Botswana (Kelvedon), Guernsy v Fiji (Colchester), Cayman Islands v Vanuatu (Frinton), Norway v Saudi Arabia (Coggeshall). Sept 8: Cayman Islands v Saudi Arabia (Kelvedon), Vanuatu v Norway (West Mersea), Fiji v Surinam (Colchester), Guernsey v Botswana (Frinton). Sept 10: Fiji v Botswana (Coggeshall), Guernsey v Surinam (Halstead), Cayman Islands v Norway (Kelvedon), Vanuatu v Saudi Arabia (Colchester). September 11: matches at Kelvedon, Maldon, Frinton and Coggeshall. September 13: final at Chelmsford, third-place play-off at Colchester. Great Bentley CC Season 2015 April 19: Colchester lost by 137 runs April 26: FRINTON PP May 10: WIVENHOE lost by 8 wickets May 17: Halstead won by 5 wickets May 31: Springfield PP June 7: WITHAM (Cup) won by 33 runs June 14: HIGH EASTER lost by 5 wickets July 5: GT HORKESLEY & LEXDEN (Cup) PP July 19: Mistley lost (forfeit) July 26: GT HORKESLEY & LEXDEN (Cup) won by 56 runs

Aug 2: Earls Colne (Cup) won by 41 runs Aug 9: High Easter won by 3 wickets Aug 16: Wivenhoe lost (forfeit) Aug 23: SPRINGFIELD PP Aug 30: COLCHESTER Sep 6: Wivenhoe (Cup Final at Halstead) Sep 13: Frinton Sep 20: MISTLEY TBA: HALSTEAD

35

GREAT BENTLEY PARISH COUNCIL Community Resource Centre, Village Hall

Plough Road CO7 8LG Tel. 01206 256410

Email clerk@greatbentleyparishcouncil.co.uk Website www.greatbentleyparishcouncil.co.uk

Parish Council to Meet Potential Developer of Station Field. Planning App 14/01750/OUT: The Parish Council has scheduled a meeting at 7pm on Thursday 10 September 2015 at the Village Hall with Edward Gittins & Ass to discuss the developers progress with the outline planning application for the location named Station Field east of Plough Road, Gt Bentley. This will be an informal meeting that will form part of the developer’s consultation process. The Council has agreed to allow members of the public to attend with a ‘listening only’ brief. This is not a public meeting. Railway Level Crossing Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s): Network Rail informs that no service level agreement exists for level crossings but that SOP’s govern how level crossings operate. There is no one size fits all SOP. How individual crossings operate depends on a variety of factors including construction of the barriers, line speed, proximity to a station, how busy the road is, how ‘built up’ the immediate vicinity is and whether it is a staffed or automatically operated crossing. Railway Level Crossing Survey: Mr Ken Drew completed a second survey of the level crossing in June, July and August adopting a low profile as requested. His report of the findings supports the findings of his initial report. A copy of the report was circulated to members and will be included in the minutes of Parish Council meeting.

Circus Tyanna Visit: The circus visited the village on 12–19 July. No reports of problems were received. The Clerk agreed to allow the Circus to use water from the standpipe on the Green and will be forwarding an invoice to cover the cost of the water used. Information Technology Support: The Clerk is in discussion with the company that currently provides the Parish Council’s computer support. The aim is to secure an increased level of service and improve security and resilience. Double Kerbing on Southside: Further to the last Parish Council meeting, Friends of the Green has agreed to part fund the double kerbing works to the value of £2,000. An order has been placed with DA Cant Ltd. The works are scheduled to commence on 21 September 2015 and will take two weeks to complete. Office Redecoration: The Parish Council agreed to redecorate the Community Resource Centre and this work will be scheduled as soon as it can be arranged.

Parish Council Meetings: The date and times of the September monthly meetings is as set out below. Planning Committee meeting, 7.15pm on Thursday 3 September Monthly Parish Council meeting, 7.30pm on Thursday 3 September

The Community Resource Centre is staffed on a part time basis only. The opening times are displayed on the

office door and published on the Parish Council website.

Planning Reference No. & Email Link

Application Details Address

15/00978/FUL Ms A Wylie

Removal of condition 02 of planning permission TEN/95/0949 to remove applicant only restriction, and variation of condition 03 of planning permission TEN/95/0949 to change wording to B1 use only.

The Old Village Hall Plough Road Great Bentley

15/01007/LBC Mr & Mrs Adams

Proposed reconstruction of roof on existing shed.

Palfreymans The Green Great Bentley

15/01017/FUL Mr Jones

Proposed Cart Lodge. Sturricks Sturrick Lane Great Bentley

15/01037/FUL Mr and Mrs May

Proposed single storey rear extension to form kitchen/dining area and utility; two storey side extension to form garage, bedroom and en-suite.

4 Weeley Road Aingers Green

15/01082/LBC Mr J Carr

Proposed works for the replacement of windows, the removal of first floor framing and render to the rear wing and replace with new render, to refurbish the mock Tudor framing and render and the replacement of rainwater goods.

Moynes Farm Wick Road Great Bentley

36

Colchester Military Wives and Braintree Male Voice Choirs Sing

for Cancer Centre Campaign

Two of the region’s most popular choirs are adding their voices to the Colchester Hospital University NHS Foundation Trust’s campaign to build the second stage and complete the Cancer Centre at Colchester General Hospital. The Colchester Military Wives Choir (CMWC) and the Braintree Male Voice Choir (BMVC) will be performing favourites from shows such as Les Miserables, Cats, Chess and Miss Saigon on Saturday 24

th October in the beautiful setting of St.

Botolph’s Church, Colchester. “It’s a Grand Night for Singing” is being jointly organised by Graham Thornton, President of the Rotarty Club of Colchester Trinity, and Ian Dewis of the BMVC. The musical programme has been put together by the two musical directors: Sally Leung of CMWC and David Wood of BMVC. The event is supported by local builders’ merchants Collier & Catchpole and tickets at £15 are now available for purchase from Mann’s Music on Colchester High Street or from Collier & Catchpole on London Road Colchester. You can also obtain tickets from the Colchester Hospital Charity Office on 01206 745282 Neil Raven on 01206 734528 or Graham Thornton on 01206 971044. Ian Dewis & Graham Thornton, the driving forces behind the event, are delighted with progress so far: “Our aim was to increase awareness of the Cancer Centre Campaign, to raise some much needed funds for them and to organise a concert which showcases some of the region’s best singing talent. We have been quite humbled by the level of support and interest we have received so far and we look forward to a very successful and enjoyable evening.” Doors will open from 6.45pm for a 7.30pm start. Refreshments will be offered in return for donations, raffle tickets will be available for a draw on the night, and early arrivers will benefit from the pre-programme light piano entertainment by Mike Wilkinson. Stop Press P. Over half the tickets have been sold already.

Farming Diaries

You may have noticed that the gentle purr of the combines has stopped and farmers are now getting their land ready for the drilling of the next crop for harvest during summer 2016. This may seem a long way off but plans for the cropping have in many cases, been in place for a number of weeks now. A great deal will happen between now, when the new seasons’ crops are drilled and when they are harvested. The weather as you know plays a key role in a plant’s development and any deviation from the usual pattern of weather can have a significant impact on harvested yields even from such an early stage as drilling, in the next couple months. If, like we have seen in more recent years we have a poor autumn where we get excess rainfall farmers could have difficulties drilling the crops, they may not be able to apply the crop protection products to suppress and control weeds which would compete against the crop for light, water and nutrient resources. Even if the rest of the year is relatively ‘normal’ in terms of the weather patterns we would expect to experience the initial set back when the crop was established this can have an effect on yields. Another example of how the weather has affected the crops recently, we had a very mild winter last year allowing crops to continue to develop and grow throughout the winter. This meant we experienced a harvest approximately 2-3 weeks earlier than we usually do in this area. Farmers were harvesting from early July where they would normally begin in mid-July. Although harvesting of cereal crops is now finished, the harvesting of root crops such as potatoes is still well underway and will continue into October. Locally in Great Bentley a large number of potatoes are grown but they are also grown across the Tendring Hundred area so you won’t have to travel too far before you see a harvester lifting potatoes from the ground. These potatoes could go to local farm shops, to the supermarkets for the loose or pre-packed market or be sent for processing. In some supermarkets they have the name and the location of the farm on packets of pre-packed potatoes so why not have a look and see which area your potatoes come from. Hopefully they are locally sourced and from the surrounding area. Sugar beet will begin to be harvested and

again like potatoes you won’t have to travel too far

before you see a field where sugar beet is being

lifted. It will continue to be lifted until mid January

and be sent to the British Sugar Factory at Bury St

Edmunds to be processed into the various

‘Silverspoon’ branded sugars you see on the shop

shelves.

Vicki Brooks

37

History Society

Visit to the Harwich Redoubt

For the local historian, Harwich offers many interesting sites to visit and explore. With its natural deep harbour, Harwich grew as a naval base especially during the late 17

th century

when Samuel Pepys as Chief Secretary to the Admiralty spent much time there. Its existence as a naval centre led to buildings like the two “lights” (navigational lighthouses) and many other interesting sites. During the Napoleonic Wars it was seen as having even greater strategic importance and it was at this time that “The Redoubt” was built. As its August activity the History Society visited this noteworthy fortress that now houses a museum. We were fortunate to have as a guide the Vice Chairman of the Harwich Society, David Whittle, an old friend of our group and a man steeped in the history of the town. Entering the gate where once a drawbridge had given access, David explained its origin high up on a hill above the town and harbour. With the threat of Napoleonic invasion in the early 19

th century, a Major Bryce of the Royal Engineers

was sent to look at the defences of the town. Seeing them as inadequate, he chose a site high above the town where at the time the main road to London ran. As we looked out from the gate we could see how perfectly placed it was. From its position it overlooks the town on one side and the harbour and estuary on the other. Other defensive sites at Barrack Lane (with 1000 soldiers), Beacon Hill, and the Bathside Battery at the side of the river also provided protection, as well as guns at Shotley further along the estuary. Bryce’s design for the Redoubt could be well appreciated from the gate for it revealed how the fort itself was sunk deep behind earth walls on the hill on which it stands. It would have been scarcely visible from below and thus a difficult target for invading guns. Surrounded by a deep moat, it appears even now impregnable to attack. David then showed us around the upper level of the fort, explaining how the Harwich Society had saved the building from likely demolition in the 1960’s and restored what had become a derelict dumping ground into a splendid reminder of our history as it stands today. Photographic displays we were to see later showed just what a mammoth venture this had been. The Museum has gathered a fine collection of artillery to display on this upper level, some from other sites old and new, others from the original artillery employed at the Redoubt. These latter had been dug from well below ground in the moat where they had been dumped in later years when the building was to be used in later conflicts. The most impressive of these guns is the 9-inch Rifle Muzzle Loading cannon along with models of the type of explosive shell these would have fired from the “rifled” barrel. This rifling of the inside of the barrels spins the shell it fires and thus stabilises it so that it travels further and more accurately than the old cannonballs that preceded it. We could see from the placing of guns able to fire literally for over a mile just how strong a defence it was. Looking over the parapet on the inner side of the massive brick wall that forms the circular building, one looks into the courtyard below, at the centre of which is the well that made the fortress self-sufficient with water should it have been under siege – ironically this area was recently the site of a beer festival. We then went down to this lower level. Those of us with mobility problems were able to take advantage of the recently installed stair lift. All around the circuit of the lower level are the former rooms of the soldiers’ quarters. Known as “casements”, these now house the various elements of the museum’s collection of military memorabilia. A slide show and displays of the work by the Harwich Society in its restoration testify to the huge effort the society has had to put in in the preservation of their local heritage. Recent visits by TV companies have given the museum important publicity and, with exhibitions and events taking place regularly, the society is able to fund the continuing work there. A venture that the society had originally conceived as “a few months’ tidying up” when begun in 1967 still continues apace. As a group we were most impressed by the whole venture and we thanked David for the enthusiasm he showed in delivering what had proved a very successful visit. We could only wish them more power to their elbows.

*************************

Next month’s talk will be given by an erstwhile member of our group, Mark Roberts and is entitled Zillah’s Village. It is a sequel to his earlier talk and book “Paglesham Natives”, giving a picture of the social life of that Essex village throughout the 20

th century, including the two world wars. Visitors are most welcome. Entrance

£2 incl. tea & biscuits.

Date of meeting: Thursday 10th September, 8pm, Village Hall

38

Doug’s Delight

We trust that by the time you are reading this tribute you will be aware of the presence of the splendid Bus Shelter in Thorrington Road. It’s arrival has been long awaited by many villagers and none more so than Mr. Doug Gibbs who has spent much time and effort in trying to bring it about over the years. Regrettably at the grand age of 92 Doug now has very limited mobility and is unable to use the bus anymore which is ironic, however this has not diminished his absolute pride and pleasure in knowing it is there. He loves Great Bentley and is one of our true characters who regrettably is seldom seen out and about anymore in the village, but we wanted him to be assured he is not forgotten. Therefore we arranged to transport him to the Bus Shelter for a ‘photo shoot’ to be included in our Parish News. We were joined by our friend Eileen who as a frequent user of the bus service appreciates just how long Doug has campaigned. We think that, like ourselves, there will be many folk for whom this welcome new facility will always fondly be known asGG.. ‘Doug’s Bus Shelter!’ Judy & Alan Bishop

BOB WARD

Bob passed away suddenly on June 24 after a long illness. He had many connections with Gt Bentley and made many contributions to village life. He spent time at Sturricks Farm visiting relatives when he was a boy and was a member of the PTA for Gt Bentley Primary School. He ran a Wildlife Watch Group with his wife Sue for many years, introducing numerous local children to the wonders of nature. He also played badminton for years at the Village Hall and more recently was a member of the table tennis group on Wednesday mornings. All of these activities gave him enormous pleasure. Sue, Colin and Alex would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their kindness and support at such a sad and difficult time.

Friends of the Green A date has been set in the second half of September for the kerbing work on the South side. The ‘F.O.G’ have donated £2,000 towards the cost of the work and have also donated £100 to Bentley in Bloom to assist with the cost of flowers in the containers paid for by them. The next event sponsored by us will be a Vintage Tractor Display at the Great Bentley Show on 5

th September. We wanted to support the show

and to heighten our profile. We hope to have leaflets available on the day to explain what we are about and hopefully attract new members who feel the need to protect our magnificent green. If you are an owner or know someone who owns a vintage tractor, please tell them about the event. They can just turn up or book in with me. Michael Dorling Chairman 01206 250799

IRIS SIMMONS

Iris Charlotte Simmons passed away at home on the 23rd July, aged 87. She was born on 18th January 1928. She was born in Ipswich and raised by parents Mildred and Harold Ridgeon. She moved to Clacton when she was very young. One of eight children, Russ, Pat (twins), Pam, Royston (who died at 1 year old), June, Cherry, Penny and Diane. Iris left school at 14 and worked in Clacton laundry across the road from where she lived. She met her husband Bill in 1950 through a friend at work and married in 1952. She had one daughter, 3 grandaughters and 8 great-grandchildren. Iris and Bill ran Simmons Surplus Stores and the yard for many years until 2000 when the shop was sold. She loved knitting, crotchet, tapestry making and always had time for her family. She made us all laugh with her unique sense of humour. Many people in the village will have fond memories of her. We will all miss her. Iris funeral will take place at St Mary’s church on Tuesday 1st September at 1pm. Shirley Fairminer

JENNIE MARSHALL (Jean Acutt)

In saying farewell to our friend we remember above all her immense generosity. If anyone needed or wanted anything - or if she thought they did - Jean rushed to provide it. A lot of us remember her as "Jean". She was christened Jennie May, but her mother called her "Jean" after the nurse who looked after her as a baby. Bill found out her real name was "Jennie", and liked that, so that's what he called her. She found "Jennie Marshall" was a nice name, so that's who she became. Jean had been a Guider and a Camp Advisor. At some point she joined the Royal London Insurance Company. She had left school at fourteen (as they did in those days) without any qualifications, but still became an ADC, beating several men with all sorts of qualifications to do so. Jean sang in the church choir for years, and carried the cross in front of the choir - not the little one used today, but a heavy brass cross. I remember Jean one Palm Sunday, leading the singing choir carrying the cross, followed by the congregation - not only round the outside of the church but, still singing, across the green to the Methodist Church. Most of all I miss her jolly laugh. She was a wonderful cook, too. It's a pity Jennie and Bill couldn't have had more time together, but she was welcomed into Bill's family, all of whom have been very kind to her. Had they been her own children, they could not have been more loving and caring. Mary Beard

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FOOTBALL CLUB NOTES

Rita Coles: Everyone at Great Bentley Football Club was deeply saddened to hear of the death of Rita, and we offer our heartfelt condolences to Alan, Julian and family. Rita took on the pivotal role of secretary in 1994, and played a major part in helping to stabilise the club at a time when it was “in a muddle”. Her steadfast methods ensured that, by the time she relinquished her position, in 2002, the administrative side of the club had undergone a complete transformation. During her time in Great Bentley, Rita was involved with several village organisations, and it is thanks to the efforts of people like her, that we continue to enjoy such a thriving community. She will be greatly missed. Five-a-Side. The Mick Taylor Memorial Trophy: Although the number of entrants was down on recent years, the format of the competition gave every team at least six games. Once again, our hard-working club members ensured a smooth running tournament, and a very busy day in the bar and BBQ. A.G.M. There was a good attendance at Great Bentley’s 118

th A.G.M., at which chairman, Andy Walker reflected

on one of the most difficult seasons in the club’s history after a player shortage forced us to withdraw the first team from the Border League in November. He thanked all Bentley’s officers for their efforts in keeping the club going, and bestowed a special thank-you on manager, Julian Buda, his assistant, Gordon Lawrence, and their group of players, who remained loyal for the rest of the season. Andy stressed the importance of engaging with the village youngsters, so that the club could fully benefit from its successful youth set-up. He also congratulated the club’s new Veterans team, who, under the management of Graham McCormick and Richie Herbert, finished as runners-up in the North Essex Veterans League. The officers elected for the new season were: Richard Morton (Patron), Peter Morton (President), Andy Walker (Chairman), Clive French (Secretary), Sara Walker (Treasurer), Tim Tricker (Fixture Secretary), Graham McCormick (Vice Chairman), and also on the committee: Del Gooch, Lara Sargeant, Julian Coles, Mark Donegan, Gordon Lawrence, Doug Laithwaite, Julian Buda and Peter Everett. Julian Buda and Gordon Lawrence were reappointed as manager and assistant for 2015-16, and team preparations have included training on the Green on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and a series of friendlies in which Bentley began with a 1-0 defeat to F.C. Clacton Reserves, then drew 3-3 with West Bergholt Reserves, lost 5-1 to Cinque Port and, finally, beat Alresford Reserves 4-0. The Veterans have played just the one friendly, losing 4-2 to Colchester & East Essex League outfit, New Field. Results and Fixtures 2015-16: 1

st Team (Essex & Suffolk Border League Division Two):

15

Aug home Hatfield Peverel Reserves, 4-1; 29 Aug home Little Oakley A; 5 Sept away Hatfield Peverel (Knock –Out Cup Preliminary Round, 2-30 p.m.); 12 Sept away F.C. Clacton Reserves; 19 Sept home Cressing United; 26 Sept away Kelvedon Social Reserves. All games league, kick-off 3 p.m. unless stated. Veterans (North Essex Veterans League): 5 Sept away Stanway Veterans; 12 Sept home Halstead Veterans. All games league, kick-off 2 p.m. Two months of pre-season team preparation came to a head on the big kick-off day, Saturday 15

th August, when we

recorded our first opening day win since August 2000, a mere 15 year blip in the G.B.F.C. annals of under achievement! Buda has kept faith with the bulk of last season’s players, but with the addition of a few new faces to strengthen his squad. The acquisition of former Ipswich Town trialist, Dale Crosby, in goal, has given the team a huge boost, and he made a solid start behind a revamped back three of Trevor Kirk, Jake Bell and Chris Mann. Gavin Newcombe and Mick Southee have formed a good partnership in midfield, and there was a welcome return to the Bentley front-line for Dan Charles. Superb headed goals from Buda and Joe Hurd were amongst the many highlights for Bentley’s loyal followers, who were left pinching themselves to see if they were at the right game. Keep it up lads.

Lucky Team Winners July: B. Simmons (Q.P.R.) £25. August: S. Greenwood (Norwich City) £25.

Stoner.

40

DIARY FOR SEPTEMBER

Tues 1st BENTLEY GREEN LADIES CLUB, 7.30pm, Village Hall

Wed 2nd DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES FOR VILLAGE SHOW

Thurs 3rd ELECTION OF COUNCILLOR, 7am - 10pm, Village Hall

Thurs 3rd PLANNING COMMITTEE MEETING, 7.15pm, Village Hall

PARISH COUNCIL MEETING, 7.30pm

Fri 4th COFFEE MORNING, Methodist Church

Sat 5th THE GREAT BENTLEY SHOW, 1.30pm, p. 27

Sat 5th HARVEST SHOW, St Osyth Village Hall, 2-4.30pm

Mon 7th SUPPORT IN LOSS, p. 2

Thurs 10th GT BENTLEY YOUTH CLUB, 7pm, Methodist Church

Thurs 10th MEETING WITH DEVELOPER re Station Field, details p. 5

Thurs 10th HISTORY SOCIETY, Village Hall, 8pm

Sat 12th BIG GREEN COFFEE MORNING, St Osyth Village Hall, 10am

Sun 13th OPEN DAY, Howlands Marsh Nature Reserve, St Osyth, 11-4pm

Mon 14th WEA Starts, 7.30pm, Village Hall, see p. 32

Mon 14th MAGAZINE DEADLINE

Mon 14th BENTLEY PLAYERS READ THROUGH, Vestry Room,

7.30pm, p. 14

Tues 15th GARDENING CLUB, AGM & AUTUMN SHOW, 8pm,

Village Hall

Thurs 17th PATIENT PARTICIPATION GROUP, 6.30pm, Village Hall

Sat 19th/Sun 20th FLOWER FESTIVAL & ART EXHIBITION,

St Mary’s Church.

Mon 21st BENTLEY PLAYERS AUDITION, Vestry Room, 7.30pm

Wed 23rd EVERGREEN FRIENDSHIP CLUB, Harvest Festival, V. Hall

Thurs 24th GT BENTLEY YOUTH CLUB, 7pm, Methodist Church

Fri 25th MAGAZINE COLLATING, 9am Vestry Room

Fri 25th WORLD’S BIGGEST COFFEE MORNING, 10-12 noon,

Village Hall

Fri 25th WINE TASTING, ring 01206 252157 for details

Sat 26th CABARET EVENING, Village Hall, p. 14

Sun 27th TEA AT HALF PAST THREE, Methodist Church 3.30pm, p. 4

Tues 29th MESSY CHURCH, Methodist Church